//------------------------------// // Return of an old friend, Part I // Story: Spiders and Magic: The Harmony Avengers // by andrew7 //------------------------------// Finally, an early evening came, and for Peter, Twilight and otherpony the day was indeed very long. After several arrangements and lots of things that needed to be taken care off, like for Rarity making superhero costumes for future “Equestrias Mightiest Heroes”, Peter studying Dimensional Dilation Accelerator closer and trying to understand more properly its mechanism about dimensional travel, Twilight consulting and convincing Sunset Shimmer to join the team, while Princess Celestia herself, taking the matters into her own hooves and consulted the situation with Felicia Hardy, aka Black Cat in order to convince cat burglar to join forces with The Avengers. Despite being once a notoriously infamous cat burglar in New York and making herself more than one enemy, like Kingpin for instance, Felicia proved more than one time to be a valuable ally for Spiderman back on Earth, as well as eventually becoming a crime fighter and, much for Twilights dismay and annoyment, romantically attracted and involved with a web-slinger. And despite causing multiple robberies throughout Equestria several years ago, and when being finally caught and thwarted by Spider-Mane, Felicia eventually changed her ways and redeeming herself when Princess Celestia offered her a job as her secret agent and using her skills for stealing and obtaining magical artefacts for sun goddess herself. And despite Twilights protects, Peter insisted for Felicias membership in team. He knew very well, that a former and reformed cat burglar would be definitely, with her speed, acrobatics, stealth and cunning a great deal of help for The Avengers in their battle against Grogar. And, Peter also hoped for Twilight and Felicia, two mares would finally put their hostilities behind and being, well at least trying to be…..friends. And so, it all come to this. Within the walls and quarters of Canterlot castle, in the throne room, Princess Celestia, Luna, Cadance and Shining Armor, though with an exception of Chrysalis that unfortunately wasn’t present for today, were sitting around the table, waiting for Twilight, Peter and Elements of Harmony to arrive. While Celestia, Luna and Cadance were sitting and waiting patiently, each on her specific chair, marked with their own cutie mark, Shining Amor on the other hoof unfortunately didn’t shared the same qualities like did princesses, as his patience was slowly declining, though also bearing a hint of concern. “Chm. I wonder what has taken Twily and the others so long?” Older stallion murmured, taping his hoof nervously on the table. “They should have been here by now.” “Patience, dear.” Cadance moderated her husband, placing her hoof on stallions shoulder and kissing Shinings cheek affectionately. “You know that there was lots of important things and arrangements that needed to be done for today.” “Yes, Shining Armor.” Princess Celestia politely added. “The today is very important. And Twilight, Peter and the others have been very busy to take care of all the matters that has needs to be taken care off. Peter trying to understand proper functions of that Dimensional Dilation Accelerator device from Uatu, Twilight informing Sunset Shimmer about the situation and trying to convince her to join the team….” Princess of the sun explained to Twilights older brother, yet she didn’t had a chance to finish, because Luna suddenly and rather involuntarily interjected, clearing her throat. “And….Peter unfortunately and of course insisted on those superhero outfits, saying that a so called superhero is actually “not a superhero” without heroic attire. So he asked Rarity to make some costumes, specially designed for Twilight, Sunset Shimmer, Logan….And me, of course.” Moon goddess sighed a with an odd mixture of sarcasm and slight exasperation, also by the mention as Peter had always been telling Luna to totally rock some cape and cowl, as well as taking some fitting superhero name on her own. Since the mare originally absolutely despised “Batmare” for instance, Peter suggested something more original and fitting to, like “Night-Mare”, much more for Lunas further annoyment. Yet, though she would rarely admit it, deep down, Luna couldn’t resist a raising curiosity how her own possible heroic attire would look like. Back on Earth when being transformed into a human, she wore a blue silky like dress, perfectly matched to her royal like golden decorations and features, which Peter, also for much princess further embarrassment complimented, not to mention her “well-endowed” physique. Though shuddered involuntarily and a small blush forming on the mares blue cheeks, Luna managed to supress these rather disturbing memories to focus on the matters at hands. “It is all Peter, alright.” Moon princess scoffed sarcastically, yet managing a grin. Shining nod his head approvingly, yet, the stallion still seemed to have something more on his mind. So, he cleared his throat and shifting his attention to sun goddess. “Princess Celestia?” Shining addressed ruler of Equestria with utmost respect and humble, yet maintaining his confidence. “Do you think, that Peter can actually handle with such an advanced technology and finding a way how to operate that interdimensional portal like device?” Listening former Royal Guards captains statement, Celestia denied a warm reassuring smile. “I don’t think, Shining Armor. I know that.” Princess of the sun politely replied, causing the stallion his brow furrow. “Peter has proved his magnificent intellect more than one times, again and again, as well as showing ingenuity, cunning and resourcefulness in battle and other difficult situations. The fair examples may be taken administering an antidote for Chrysalis and changelings to reverse their feedings habits, constructing that Spider Glider flying machine, or saving Pinkie from that alternate dimension via operating with Dimensional Dilation Accelerator. I have faith in Peter and his intentions. As well as in Twilight and her friends.” “So do I. Peter has my full support on that Avengers team, especially when the fate of the entire Equestria in on stake. And I am more than willing then to support him.” Luna declared decisively, standing from her seat. “My sentiment exactly.” Cadance gave her own full part of support. Seeing and also very well knowing that there was no point objecting or even arguing the princesses, especially one who also was his bellowed wife for instance, yet Cadance patted her hoof gently over her husbands affectionately and giving an encouraging grin, Shining sighed in a defeated like way, yet managing a warm smile nonetheless. “If you can support him…Then so do I.” Shining Armor stated supportively, earning a gentle serene smile from Celeestia. In the same moment, a flash of a bright light erupted nearby and Twilight, along with Peter, Spike and the wielders of Elements of Harmony Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Applejack and Fluttershy all appeared in the throne room. Twilight bore double knapsacks over her hips and so did Peter, filled with a various equipment and tools. Though, and quite for everyponys surprise, young stallion also carried blue cool box on his back. “I am sorry we are a little late.” Twilight murmured sheepishly and scratching back of her head nervously, as Princess Celestia, Luna, Cadance and Shining Armor gave a group a welcoming smile. “But we still had some little things, like family matters that needed to be taken care off, but we are all good and ready now.” However, in the instance, loud knocks echoed from behind the throne room door. “Please! Come in!” Princess Celestia exclaimed aloud yet with a gentle and polite way, instructing whoever was outside the room to enter. “But if it is the big bad wolf, then go away!” Peter exclaimed, not denying himself a humorous remark, causing Twilight to roll her eyes in and groaning in exasperated way, once again being annoyed by her husband quirky and rather childish antics. The large door opened and two Canterlot Royal Guards Pegasus step in, both stallions calved in golden shining armours bowing in respect to their beloved ruler. “Your Highness. We are simply to tell you, that miss Sunset Shimmer has come to make settled appointment with you.” One of the guards stated in humble and respect to sun princess, as Sunset appeared in doorways, passing the guards and entered the throne room. A fiery, red and yellow maned mare shared a friendly gaze with Twilight, Peter, Spike and wielders of Elements of Harmony, but gulped nervously by seeing Princess Celestia, her former teacher and mentor herself. Despite feeling somewhat apprehensive and uneasy, Sunset was very happy nevertheless to see princess of the sun once again, as Celestia denied a warm welcoming smile to her former student and so did Sunset, bowing in respect. “Thank you, gentleman.” Princess Celestia addressed the guards still standing at the doors gently. “We will take it from here. You can go now.” The armoured pegassus stallions only bowed their head in both understanding and respect, leaving the room and closing the door behind them. The entire room could literally overflow by joy and happiness, as Rainbow, Fluttershy, Rarity, Applejack, but especially Pinkie Pie of course galloped their way to Sunset. There was lots of to talk about and catching up, as Elements crowed around red maned mare and bombarding her with personal questions. Judging from her body language, though Sunset feeling a little overcrowded, she was more than happy and excited to see Twilights and Peters friends again. Though, the pressure soon became too tight as Pinkie, ever happy party pony as usually wrapped her hooves around Sunsets neck, nearly squeezing every breath from her by happy and friendly “bear hug”. However, and much Sunsets relief, Twilight, also annoyed by her pink mares overly excitable attitude, used her telekinesis via her horn to swiftly, yet gently pushing pink mare aside and joining Sunsets side along with Peter, who by the time put the cooling box down. “Sunset. I am so glad to see you again, girl.” Peter greeted himself with and hugging amber coloured unicorn with both his hooves. While Sunset, still a bit taken aback by her friends approach and her neck still aching a bit from Pinkie, she eventually returned her own hug to young stallion, smiling warmly. “It sure has been a while since we saw each other. How are things going, you little she-devil?” Peter nudged the mare provocatively. “Have you actually not been storing a demon like costume for the next Nightmare Moon Festival? Because I guess it would be something to see you like that in pony form.” A blank expression formed on Sunsets face, taken aback by Peters sarcastic remark, by referring Sunsets “evil demonic form” several years ago, back on Earth, yet the mare managed a sheepish and rather awkward chuckle. “Right, Peter. I can see that you are still so funny and witty as always.” “How else?” Peter stated bluntly, though Twilight nudged her husband in his guts to behave and pushing him aside a bit so she could welcome herself with Sunset. “Sunset.” Twilight called her unicorn friend in joy. “You have made it. That’s great. Have you had any problems?” “Not at all, Twilight.” Sunset replied and raising her hoof in reassuring like way. “Sure, I had to go back to school in order to arrange everything. I have showed Princess Celestias Pass to my teachers and they were more than happy to comply my request as soon as they saw royal insignia, suspending my studies indefinitely. Princess Celestia still knows how to make a good impression.” “I am very honoured that you feel it that way, Sunset.” Celestia gently stated as she stood up from her seat at the table and making her way gracefully to Sunset and the crowd and Luna following her from behind. “Nice to see you again, my former student.” “Princess Celestia. Your Highness.” Sunset exclaimed excited, but somewhat halting her awe, clearing her throat and immediately bowing in respect and humble, somewhat fidgeting involuntarily. She was arguably still nervous and feeling guilty a little bit about that whole incident several years ago, with stealing Twilight crown, joining forces with Norman Osborn and attempting to kill both Twilight and Peter. But eventually, Sunset Shimmer redeemed herself by joining forces with Peter, Twilight and Luna and helping them during their final confrontation again all-powerful reality warping Norman Osborn. Though, despite all that and after nearly seven years, Sunset was still feeling a little uneasy or even shameful in sun goddess presence. Being aware of her former students tense and rather subdued composure, Celestia denied a warm serene smile, a solemn sympathetic expression forming on her face, coming closer to Sunset as her shadow virtually engulfed her, causing the mare to fidget even further, yet trying to remain her cool. In the same instance, Princess Celestia placed her hoof under Sunsets chin and lifting her head to meet her deep violet eyes full of sympathy and understanding. “Please, stop being so tense, before you will upset yourself, my dear.” Celeastia whispered encouragingly. “From now on, when Grogar is threatening the entire Equestria our home, we are all equal in here and we have to stand together.” Sun goddess gave Sunset a warm smile, before pulling her former apprentice closer into a warm embrace, as Sunset returned her former mentors hug along with her own warm smile on the fullest. “It is my pleasure to see you again, Sunset Shimmer.” Luna greeted Sunset happily with a cheerful smile and stepping closer to the mare. “Princess Luna.” Sunset averted her gaze from Princess Celestia to Princess of the moon and greeting her back with same level of enthusiasm. “I am glad to see you too.” “It sure has been a while since we fought together side by side. But I believe that now, when you are back in, we shall combine our might and together defeat Grogar. You shall be indeed a good help with your improved magic skills and intellect in our fight.” Moon goddess declared, her deep ocean like eyes gleaming with determination. “So I hope so.” Sunset replied a little awkwardly, yet tuning into more determined tone. “But, you all have my word that from now on, when I am back with you guys, I swear to my heart and honour to help and assist you in order to beat Grogar as best I can.” “I believe you will, my friend.” Luna smiled warmly, knowing very well that she could count on a pony who was though once bad, but eventually turning good due to combined efforts of Peter, Twilight and Princess Celestia, yet also seeing Sunset as a reliable ally and friend as well. Though, Rarity cleared her throat, the fashion loving pony step closer. “Twilight. Sunset. And Princess Luna. I am more than happy to inform you that I have done some great progress on your costumes shall by ready and finished till tomorrow.” “That’s great, Rarity.” Twilight exclaimed in joy, satisfied with her fashionistas friend news. “We will be looking forward to them.” Watching Sunsets and Lunas friendly and hones approach with satisfaction, Peter however right then took off both his knapsacks with an equipment from his back putting it at the large table, before clearing his throat and interjected. “It is sure nice that we are all going around just fine ladies and that the circle of life is filling in, but…..” The stallion look around the, scanning the throne room, like he would be looking for somepony, but when having no luck, Peter turned his attention to princess of the sun. “Princess Celestia…If I may ask, what about….” But unfortunately, the stallion didn’t have a chance to finish his sentence, when suddenly a very well familiar and in some cases rather disturbing thingling like sensation echoed within the back of young stallions head. "Um......Is somepony going to hit me or what.....? Peter stammered quite for everyponys around mutual awe, as his Spider Sense within his head was buzzling, indicating on something unfortunate to happen, yet although and strange it sounded rather faintly, not apparently indicating something extra dangerous to come. “What the….?!” Peter blurted in awe although not being able to brace himself in time, as right then out of the sudden, a strange black blur with a white streak collided right into young stallions back with a surpising force, completely catching Peter off guard and sending young stallion down right on the marble floor with a loud THUD!, much for Twilights and everypony around collective awe, failing to comprehend what was that all about. “Boy. Now you are really getting sloppy.” A smug and somewhat slurty feminine voice, accompanied with a playful chuckle filled with sarcasm echoed, as Peters vision was blurring a little bit before eventually getting clear as the knight was finding himself pinned on the floor yet much for his dismay, seeing a rather strikingly beutiful azure mare with a long snow like mane, blue eyes, and having a black mask with sharpened edges over her face. She was calved in a black attire with an untied zipper, revealing half of her chest, a white fur decorating on her hooves and over her collar and wearing a black collar over her neck, with a small tinker bell fixed on it, as the mare was towering over Peters frame, pinning young stallion to the floor with her hooves. "Long time no see, Spider? Have you missed me?" Felicia smirked playfully, denying Peter a very well familiar and rather very unfortunate flirty like look, licking her lips sultringly, with her face also being though rather dangerously close to Peters, just a few millimeters away. “Felicia. We really must stop meeting like this.” Peter exhaled in both combined awe and dismay alike, feeling himself awkward and rahter uncomfortable having Black Cat right under his nose so close while Twilight, unfortunately and of course her own awe quickly formed into an intense glare, as well as anger associated with it by seeing Black Cat standing over her knight, much for Peters utter dismay. "Oh, what kind of fun that would be, handsome?" Felicia chuckled playfully and shoke her head a bit, waving her long snow white mane in the oricess as her mane was right then hanging down over and touching Peters face, tickling as Peter out of the sudden felt a rising warm in his cheeks. "Get off him, you.....!" Out of the sudden, Twilight, who eventually lost her cool and patience yelled out aloud, demanding Black Cat to get off Peter, as Felicia by quite for her surprise saw a young amethyst alicorn princess around, bearing a venomous glare and rushing her way forward, yet nonetheless cat burglar relinguished her hold on Peter and getting off him. "Awkward...." Peter stammered in a very awkward manner indeed, getting up from the marble floor on his hooves yet unfortunatelly now finding himself right between two mares, as the ongoing and slowly tensing situation didn’t improve in the slightest the fact, that Twilight venomous scowl deepened even further and Peter could even see by the edge of his eye, that Shining bore a small scowl with an exasperated expression, though, unbeknown to Peter, even Luna bore a small glare as well. “Well…If it isn’t the little princess herself? Twilight Twinkle, I presume?” Felicia scoffed, addressing Twilight quirkily with a false interpretation of her name, causing young alicorns glare intense even further when it literally resembled dagger, much for Peters dismay with Felicia not appearing to be intimidated in the slightest. “Oh! That is it! I have had enough! I can not believe I have just let Peter to sign you up for this!” Twilight growled in irritation and slamming her hoof to the ground, finally losing all her cool and patience with cat burglars flirty and immature antics, that by the way may sound even more outraging than Peters. A small vein appeared at the mares forehead as her horn started glowing fiery with her purple aura. Felicia hissed once again and maintaining defensive stance. “Hey! Hey! Hey ladies!” Peter blurted out and stepping among two mares, who stood face to face like two cats about to scramble each other eyes and cutting them out, tuning into his a way more serious tone. “As much as I like an old good catfight….But, right now, we got a powerhungry, megalomaniacal and runaway evil ram necromancer on the loose. And this little show you are playing is not exactly helping our situation. So, how about we all cease hostilities and just try to all get along?” Peter gave a small scolding glare to Felicia, while hugging his wife affectionately with one hoof and giving the mare a reassuring smile. "Boy. I cannot believe I am usually the immature one around.... Twilight, feeling her husbands presence be her side and his own harm spreading through her body, the mare finally managed to calm her raging thoughts down by Peters comfort and giving him a warm honest smile on her own. Though, she gave one final glare with an edge of her eye to Felicia, reminding and cursing her not to mess up with her again. “Well, whatever.” Felicia scoffed indifferently, relieving herself from her defensive stance, shrugging her shoulders. “Lets reserve fun for later. Then it might go interesting.” Yet, the cat burglar chuckled as she reached out with a flirty smile as she just like that and without any hint of shame planted a kiss on Peters cheek, making a young stallion to shudder sheepishly though earning yet another venomous glare from Twilight as a feral hiss escaped out of her throat, yet Peter luckily put his hoof over his princess shoulder and giving her a known look, prompting Twilight to let it go with Felicia at least for now. "My word! Dont you have any shame?!" Rarity suddenly belowed with her cheeks bearing a shades of red in shame as fashionista was evidently more than outragous herself about cat burglar mares uncought and flirteous manners. Felicia than finally realized and averting her gaze right on Twilight, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rarity, Rainbow Dash and Applejack standing nearby. “So, it is true, Spidey. You have your very own harem of Dwarfelles. Nice. Let me guess….Critterina, Blossom and Sunburn.” A cat burglar mare addressed Fluttershy, Rarity and Rainbow sarcastically, by giving them funny nicknames, humorously indicating on Happily Ever After movie with Snow White and seven dwarfelles: Muddy, Sunburn, Critterina, Marina, Moonbeam, Blossom and Thunderella, as female cousins of seven dwarfs. “What does it mean?” Pinkie asked bluntly with her brow raised, evidently having no idea what Felicia meant be that, while shy pegassus, fashionista and tomboyish mare on the other hoof didn’t seem to take Black Cats quirky remark with humour. Fluttershy clutched herself shamefully, but Rarity and Rainbow bore annoyed looks. “Oh boys. It doesn’t end well.” Peter though sarcastically for himself, watching Black Cats interaction with bearers of Elements of Harmony acquiring momentum as raising hostility among mares could be felt in the air, with a risk that somepony will break a muzzle soon. Rainbow flapped her wings and flying her way right to Felicia with a piercing glare on her face, as her muzzle nearly touched with Felicias, keeping herself airborne. “Hey, pussycat. Being Peters former sidekick, partner, whatever or not, I am NOT impressed by your attitude. And your jokes stinks.” Felicia raised her left hoof above Rainbows chin, as a three small yet sharp retractable claws emerged from her glove, causing half of the mares to shriek by the act, while Rainbow tightened herself with in her teeth gritted, as she could feel beads of sweat forming on her face. “My mistake. Guess I have found Grumpy instead.” Felicias declared rather maliciously, with a devious smirk forming on her muzzle. In the same instance, a purple sparkling aura engulfed Rainbow Dash and pulling pegassus away from Felicias reach. “No! I AM Grumpy!” Surprisingly Twilight, who by the way finally and obviously lost her cool and patience with Black Cat, took Rainbows place and glaring Felicia with even more intensity than Rainbow like a basilisk, standing firmly in front of Felicia face to face. "That is enough ladies!" Sunset Shimmer suddenly and surprsingly intervened and standing between two mares just before Peter could even make his move to stand up. "We have all came here for a reason to deal with urgent matters at hooves, on which apparently depends the fate of the entire Equestria, being in this all together. And yet still, any of you are not helping the situation in the slightest. So lets just save the squables and finally start working together like a team." Sunsets words although sounding simple, yet each word bore such a great deal of reason and persuasion to take in and surprisingly even causing both Twilight and Felicia along with bearers of Elements of Harmony to settle down by eventually sorting the entire argument out, much for Peters relief, yet though both Twilight and Felicia exchanged a mutual scowls and pouting at each other before averting their faces off, as evidently both mares decided to settle down for now, yet evidently still not getting along. “Sunset Shimmer is right.” Luna stated decisively, her voice though wavering slightly and her ocean blue eyes gleaming with seriousness and stepping closer to Peter, Twilight and Felicia, although unbeknown to others, the iron clad maiden bore a glare as well, with a miniature vein forming over her forehead, yet the dark blue alicorn eventually managed to keep her temper and provoking feelings at bay, knowing what was more important right then. However, princess of the moon denied a concerned and rather apprehensive look. “I am terribly sorry, my friends. But I am afraid, that the situation has become even more complicated than we expected.” “What do you mean by that, Luna?” Peter asked his alicorn friend, able to see a concern in her eyes and expression as well. “Last night, when I was on my regular patrol across the Equestria, I was flying near the Ghastly Gorge, when I suddenly heard a loud canine like howling, echoing throughout the vicinity under the cape of night.” “I also realized that that night, there was a full moon. But, I had doubted it could be Timber Wolves for an example, because those inhabits mostly Everfree Forest and their howling is very piercing and frightening, sending those who hear it chills down their spines.” “So I was following the howling, and you wouldn’t believe whom it belonged to…..The Diamond Dogs. Respectively, their three leaders, names….Rover, Fido and Spot I presume. And if I remember correctly, they once kidnapped Rarity in order to find jewels via her tracking spell for them. However, that wasn’t just an ordinary howling, as they scattered and howling profoundly in their each individual way.” “However, it was quite strange though and I was starting to have my suspicious. To see those three wandering only by themselves, far away from their turf in Rambling Rock Ridge. I couldn’t stop but wonder what those savage were up to, so….I have used my telepathy right on Rover, to read his mind in order to get some information about the situation….” “Unfortunately….I felt like somepony stab my into my chest, what I learned. Rover, Fido and Spot were calling out other Diamond Dogs, assembling personal army and guards for their new lord and master….Grogar.” “Somehow, Grogar managed to find the Diamond Dogs and making them to work for him, by promising them so many jewels, which they could only dream of finding for their entire lives for their services.” “But…As I had said before, the situation got even worse than we expected. Though, I still have now idea how, but somehow, Grogar managed to rise Tambelon up from the depths of the earth.” “Yet, to be absolutely sure about the fact, I flew far to west location, and unfortunately, despite the Diamond Dogs obviously and somewhat limited intellects, Rover was right….Tambelon, a kingdom of darkness, build on nightmares, indeed rose from the ashes.” “It was also more than obvious to me, that Grogar once again usurped his power and once again becoming Tambelons emperor. I could sense its menacing dark aura engulfing the entire kingdom.” “And right now, having one of the darkest and the most powerful kingdoms of pre-classical era and a future army of his own, that monster will not stop to nothing to take over our land and destroying us.” “I cannot believe this has happened.” Cadance declared with a disturbing tone, by hearing her adoptive aunt testimony, trotting in circle nervously, though eventually stopping by Shining Armor placing his hoof on his wifes shoulder, comforting her. “Grogars magic must be way more powerful than we have expected.” Princess Celesita murmured, considering her younger sisters statement seriously, with a concern restraining her voice, yet retaining her politeness. “Being able to raise the entire kingdom from the depths of the earths by mere enchantments with an aid of his magical bell.” “Mmm. I guess that a metaphor: “Rome wasn’t built in a day” may soon become obsolete with a miracles working like that.” Peter murmured sarcastically, being obviously the least concerned about the matter, quite of course for Twilights and Lunas dismay. “Indeed.” Sunset interjected, like she would been sharing the same concern, but also an interest like Twilight did. “Considering that Grogar actually created Tambelon via his dark magic and evil will, it may by plausible, that his very own essence and soul is bounded with Tambelon itself. Maybe that’s the reason why he managed to rise Tambelon from underground by his command.” Sunsets theory earned a couple of collective gazes from other ponies standing around, yet they couldn’t do nothing but by amazed by mares own unique statement. “That is indeed unique view on the situation, Sunset.” Twilight complimented her red maned unicorns intuition. “And come to think of it, that since Tambelon had never been truly destroyed or ruined, it could be considered more likely just a lost city, that lied hidden from the outside world for eons.” Suddenly, Luna closed her gap and clearing her throat aloud, intent to help her friend to keep the situation under control and better moving on and returning to the matters at hand. “With Diamond Dogs serving as his new army, along with Tambelon as both as fortress and centre of his operations, Grogar will be even more formidable adversary than ever before. He will definitely compensate all that lost time in order to finish what he started three thousand years ago.” Princess of the moon stated a little venomously, evident by her despise to evil ram and his malevolent intentions that he prepares to do with Equestria. Felicia, on the other hoof looked confused about Lunas odd mention of diamond and dogs combined. “Eghm. Don’t get me wrong, and not that I wouldn’t take a cream, but can somepony bother to tell me who by the whiskers are those Diamond Dogs?” “Diamond Dogs? Oh, just don’t mind them, darling. They are just a bunch of uncivilized, greedy and nasty ruffians. And I am not even talking about their sense for hygiene and manners.” Rarity explained in her own way, having an unfortunate and in fashionistas way “terrible” experience with jewel hunting canines several years ago. Though, Applejack interjected by stepping to the side of her unicorn friend. “They are a bunch of a jewel finding dogs, hunting for a precious jewels and gems for their own satisfaction. They once kidnapped Rarity here, so she could use her finding spell in order to get more jewels for them.” Farm pony explained more properly to cat burglar. “Yeah. But unfortunately for them, Rarity handled those mutts like it was nothing. She taught them the lesson they will never forget.” Spike complimented somewhat haughtily, yet his voice was also filled with attraction and admiration for the fashionista. “It was nothing. Besides, even lady have to take care of herself.” Rarity chuckled a little sheepishly with a small bright shade of pink appearing on her cheeks, filled with embarrassment. Felicia, though didn’t seem impressed so much. “A mutts hunting for jewels you say? Feh! Never let the mutts do the cat burglars job. That’s my specialty.” Felicia declared smugly, like she would actually be proud for what she was and doing, and she indeed was. Up until then, Pinkie finally shifted her attention to a blue cooling box that Peter brought along as they all were teleported on Canterlot, but what was quite funny, she actually had no idea what was inside of the box and even Peter didn’t mention the content of the box. It was arguably some sort of surprise. Yet in Pinkies case….she loved surprises. “Am…Peter? What exactly is in that cooling box of yours? Are we having a party with lots of drink?” A party pony squeaked and hopped several times at place in excitement, quite for most ponies around annoyment with heir hyperactive friends never lasting excitement. Curious, Shining Armor approached the box, using his magic via his horn to lift the box cover up and the stallions eyes literally widened and it wasn’t enough for him to wonder what he found inside. The box was filled with crushed ice and there were at least six cans with beer buried in it, chilling out. “Peter…” Shining blurted out and shifting his rather somewhat suspicious gaze to Peter and lifting one of the cans with his telekinesis. “Have you actually.....Started drinking or what?” “What? No, no, Shining! In the slightest. You know the best what a poor drinker I am.” Peter jerked out back with his hooves raised defensively, with an awkward and embarrassed expression. “Those on the contrary are all for Logan.” Young stallion explained, desperately trying to show that he didn’t started drinking himself. Despite his healing factor, as well as accelerated metabolism with an enhanced contaminant immunity, surprisingly, Peters tolerance to alcohol was pretty low if not poor. He mentioned himself, that he had one drink on Aunt Mays party and unfortunately and for his dismay getting plastered afterwards. Needless to say, that was one of the Peter the most awkward experience on his life. That’s also why Peter usually tries to avoid any kind of alcohol as best as he can. Unfortunately, for instance, when Cadance and Shining threw a party for Twilight and Peter in Crystal Castle, Cadance, a Princess of Love and a ruler of Crystal Empire, along with Twilights mother Velvet. both mares liked to have a drink. Shining, though being relieved by his brother-in laws own testimony about not drinking, older stallion then shifted his gaze back to cans filled with beer in the cooling box, watching them still suspiciously. “Peter….I know that you said that Logan guy as you put him being a tough guy, but…don’t you thing that six cans of beer is just too much?” Peter, however chuckled by a response. “Trust me, Shining. It would be better that way. Knowing Logans manly and rather infamous love for an alcohol, he will be more than happy to have chance to drink something strong. Besides, if he doesn’t have a drinkr, he is usually cranky all day. And moreover…..I had never even noticed him being drunk before.” “Huh?” Former captain of the Royal Guard titled his head to the side with his brow furrowed, wondering what Peter meant be that. “That kinda reminds me….” Peter trailed off as a late realization struck his mind. “We still got some experiment to perform in here and the last remaining member to bring to the team.” “Oh! You are right, Peter. I have almost forgot.” Twilight exclaimed in quite a late realization, yet starting helping her husband by using her magic to putting the knapsacks off her and Peters back, while the stallion started unpacking. The staff consisted mostly from scientific tools, like Dimensional Dilation Accelerator itself, a strange cylindrical device that Black Cat snatched from Peter before, several wires and cables and JARVIS, or “Just A Rather Very Intelligent System”, a small yet highly advanced laptop with an artificial intelligence program, that Twilight received as a small gift from Tony Stark when they were on Earth. “My, my.” Felicia exclaimed a little in awe by the looks of all those gadgets and devices. “Looks like you got some new toys, Spider. Have your web shooters or that fancy armour not get over-compensated too much?” The mare scoffed sarcastically, yet showing an interest nonetheless. “Just wait, Felicia.” Peter stated with somewhat smug grin, like he would be up to something intriguing, before shifting his gaze to Elements of Harmony and Sunset, prompting the mares.. “Come on, guys. Give us a hoof here. It will take some final arrangements and modifications and the experiment just will not perform by itself.” Though hesitating for a while, Pinkie, Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow, Fluttershy, Sunset, Spike and Felicia eventually complied and trotted their way to pair to help them. “Okie Dokie.” Pinkie squeaked happily with bouncing. In the same instance, Princess Celestia turned to captain of the Royal Guards. “Shining Armor.” Sun goddess spoke of politely. “Your Highness?” Shining Armor replied in respect and humble and maintaining a firm at attention like stance, expecting orders from his beloved ruler. “I need you to assemble and alert the guards in order to watch over the quarters. What is going to transpire here in the matter of time, shall remain only between everypony present in this room. Nopony else mustn’t know about this.” Celestia asked Shining to make a favour. “Yes, Your Highness!” The stallion once again spoke off in respect and before leaving, he gave Cadance a warm smile, as his wife gave her stallion an affectionate kiss on his lips. Shinning smiled once again, before he proceed trotting right to the entrance door, leaving the throne room with the doors creaking in protest closing. A serene smile formed on Princess Celeastias face as she turned her attention back to Twilight, Peter and other mares. “Please. You may begin.” Finally, after ten minutes, everything was ready, set and on its place. Dimensional Dilation Accelerator was fixed on a metal stand bonded on a marble floor, a medium sized satellite dish like receiver standing nearby, a power strip plugged with several cables and wires connecting both the Accelerator and satellite receiver and JARVIS lying on the table, with one single big plug, connecting the laptop with power strip itself. Well, literally sophisticated and resourceful mechanism. “Oh my.” Flutterhsy exhaled in awe with her hoof placed over her mouth. “How…sophisticated.” “In my opinion…It more likely looks more entangled than a plate with spaghetti.” Rainbow on the other hoof huffed sarcastically, seemingly not sharing the same level of enthusiasm like her shy pegasus friend did. “All we need now, is some techno geek that could handle and operate this stuff.” Spike dully added with his arms folded. “Thank you very much, Spike.” Peter replied with both annoyed and exasperated tone, yet a sarcasm being present as well. “You are welcome, Peter.” Baby dragon replied indifferently, being quite oblivious that he actually insulted young stallion, despite he took it positively with humour as ever. However, unfortunately, Twilight of course denied a fierce glare to Spike for his blunt quirky remark. “W-What?” Dragon muttered incoherently. “So….” Felicia trailed off, shifting to Princess Luna and Sunset, trying take a much proper grip on the situation. “Are you telling me, that some giant “all-seeing” alien came to Equestria to warn you about some megalomanical necromancer and other "elementals" like villains, giving you a corrupting evil gem and highly advanced toy that can actually open interdimensional portals and that Spidey intents to bring Wolverine into our world with that thing?” “It actually doesn’t looks that weird as it looks like, I guess.” Sunset replied a little offhandedly. “Speaking of what transpired several years ago on Earth, with Norman Osborn possessing god-like and reality warping power or an that Venom, the evil symbiote, I am more than willing to believe almost everything.” The fiery maned mare said, while realizing Lunas exasperated or rather depressed expression on her face, evidently by the mention of Venom. “Aaargh….No offence, Princess Luna. I haven’t meant to.” Ashamed, Sunset apologized, trying to comfort Luna. “It is alright, Sunset. I am fine with that.” Moon goddess shook her head and denying Sunset a reassuring and serene smile, before returning to her more assertive side. “If anypony can operate that device, it is Peter. He just needs to believe in himself as well as the support of us all. And I believe in my friend and I am more than willing to support or help him on this.” The princess of the night stated decisively, prompting her friends to do the same, as Sunset and Felicia both smiled warmly. “So….Now what?” Applejack asked, curious what Peter was about to do with all those devices. “Eghm....” Peter cleared his throat. “As you can see ladies…and dragon, with JARVIS here I will be able to plug and hack right into Dimensional Dilation Accelerator for a remote control. With that satellite dish, I should be able to catch a signal of a potential dimensional overlap over time and space, in order to establish a interdimensional connection between Equestria and Earth via Accelerator itself. And then, with it, I will just have to find Logan via tracking his molecular signature, set his coordinates and transport him here….more or less.” Peter gave the best scientific explanation he could muster in his own, though rather awkward and geeky like way, unfortunately earing a collective or rather baffled and confused gazes from other ponies around. While Sunset chuckled sheepishly by Peters somewhat prolonged and professional scientific explanation, Felicia and Luna rolled their eyes with an uneasy grins, Princess Celestia and Cadanace on the contrary had a serene smiles on their faces. “Um…And in Equestrian, Pete?” Rainbow muttered bluntly, evidently like the rest of her friends having not a slightest idea what Peter just said. “Seriously, my head aches.” Before Peter could answer blue pegasus question, Twilight placed her hoof on her stallions shoulder, giving him an encouraging smile and better answering for him. “Eghm….Peter means, that he actually can bring Logan here into Equestria via Dimensional Dilation Accelerator with JARVIS help just fine.” And much for Peters and Twilight relief, everypony and dragon around seemed to get it. “So, what are we than waiting for?” Spike trailed off challengingly, yet an undercurrent of joy filled in his voice. “Lets get onto it, Peter.” “Alright than. Lets get it started!” Peter stated decisively, hopping to the seat at the rounded table and opening the laptop behind his position. “Wakey-wakey time JARVIS! Are you home?” A blank screen suddenly came to life, brightening, as main menu placed down, several components and icons along with JARVISs trademark software like icon appeared on the screen. “At your service, Mr Parker.” JARVIS spoke off with cybernetics like male voice with a British accent. “JARVIS….” Peter addressed the sophisticated computing system, while started pressing buttons on the keyboard. “I need you to hack into Dimensional Dilation Accelerator and then trying to locate a signal of some suitable dimensional overlap between Equestria and Earth to open a dimensional gateway.” Young stallion instructed the system, while Twilight, Spike and the others along with Princesses watched carefully. “I am right onto it, Mr Parker. Yet, it may take a while for my systems to associate with that already upgraded technologies of alien origins. But when I am in, my frequencies should be able to interface with its microprocessor and redirecting the mechanisms primarily function to open interdimensional portals.” JARVIS stoically stated as its icon started processing. “Great, JARVIS.” Peter replied back, satisfied with artificially intelligent computers work. “Just, try not to overheat yourself by the effort. You have a solar battery charging after all.” “Very funny.” JARVIS replied sarcastically, while continuing to process. Meanwhile, on Earth, somewhere in Northern Alberta in Canada to be more precise, with a scenery, part of the wilderness and trees covered with snow, during a cold winter like weather due to cold artic weather system, there was a small establishment with a sign “Jacks Bar” with a small parking, with several motorbikes parked in there. Inside the bar, there were numerous rounded tables with people, mostly man drinking and chatting among each other, while some of them were playing billiard or playing on a slot machine, a propeller ventilator fixed on the ceiling, jukebox playing music nearby, some pictures or even deer antlers trophies on the walls and a bar counter with a radio, cashbox standing on it, several drink pumps behind the counter and shelves containing various drinks, from whisky, tequila and vodka, also with various pictures and TV resting on it. Many other men were sitting on bar stools and just like the others present at the tables around, they were drinking and chatting by apparetnly having a good time. However…....There was one a rather very peculiar man, sitting rather aside from the others, wearing a red, black checked regular sleeve shirt along with a white undershirt underneath, blue styligh jeans and leather shoes. What was quite unusual about the man, that he was somewhat very short, just over 5'3" in weight. Yet his physique on the other hand was very bulky and muscular in the contrary. Yet, what was rather the most disturbing was his unique hairstyle, with his apparent meseed coal black hair shaped into pointed edges, along with a thick mutton chops sideburn over his cheeks. He appeared to be eating and minding his own business. There was also a very stylish brown leather jacket with three orange strips on its sleeves, hanging from the stool he was sitting on, as well as a backpag lying underneath the counter. However, the bar door shut itself open with a creaking and in the instance, couple of rather bulky and strong men entered in. They appeared some sort of gang of thugs looking for trouble. The others, however, by the sight of the thugs immediately step aside or averting their gazes, like they would like to avoid an eye contact or worse, a physical confrontation with them, obviously not looking for trouble. The goons made their way right to the bar counter in a bossy like way, like they would own that place and centring their attention to a short man, still sitting at the counter indifferently, still minding his own business, like he wouldn’t even be aware of their presence. Unfortunately, one strong thug, who obviously appeared to by a gang leader intentionally knocked over a half-empty green bottle, pouring an orange beverage over the counter. “Sorry shorty.” The tough guy addressed the short man with a tough sounding voice and mocking like manner, like he was about to start the trouble. “Sorry shorty?” A short man trailed off. His voice sounded unpleasant. It sounded very gruff, gravelly more likely and….Though it was quite indistinct, someone would even hear a sort of a slight growling escaping throgh his throat. Yet, the short man did not averted his gaze. “I haven’t even noticed you down there. I haven’t meant to knock over your drink.” The gang leader scoffed indifferently, with a scowl and malicious grin forming on his bearded face. “Man. Whut th' hell is wrong with this freakin' country?” The gruff man proceeded irritated. “Every time I come here, some lanky mug is chancin' his luck. I guess ya still can't git it inta yer thick heads here in this morgue…” Right than, a short, gruff man finally shifted his gaze a little bit from the counter right to the thugs, so they could see his into face. The man, seemingly a Canadian bore a severe and rather stone-faced, fierce expression, having a cold, blue eyes that were literally shining almost in hatred. However, what was rather more disturbing than his already strange hairstyle, resembling sharp edges, were mutton chop sideburns on both of his cheeks with small beard on his chin, yet in his half-opened mouth, it appeared he had animal-like canine teeth. In his left hand, with small hairs on its top he held a half-eaten hamburger and around his neck, hanging on a small chain, there were a twin metal dog tags, with a small sign “WOLVERINE” on it. “It ain't pay off ta mess with th' ol' Canucklehead. I ain't lookin' fer trouble.” The gruff man growled irritably. Logan, yet also and better known as the Wolverine, a mutant with a number of animal like abilities, like heightened senses, three metal retractable razor sharp claws on each hand, a skeleton covered with a virtually indestructible alloy known as Adamantium and highly developed accelerated healing factor, a member of X-Men and the Avengers, was once again on the loose. He usually did that to either deal with his personal matters or just to think and clearing his head off. Unfortunately, it was also rather a bad habit for Logan, as he actually never says or informs his friends and allies when or where he is going, and even he has no clue where he will eventually end up. And right now, Logan seemed to have quite lots of things on his mind and he just wanted to be alone to deal with it. But unfortunately, and as it usually occurs, like it would be either from a mere coincidence or from an adversity, the problems and troubles will usually find him. “What?” The strong thug leader blurted out in awe, yet anger slowly associating with him. “Come one, boss. There is no time for this.” One of the thugs, seemingly the weakest one muttered nervously, instructing his boss and the others to leave as soon as possible, like he wouldn’t like to mess up with the gruff man at all. “We really should get out from here.” Unfortunately, another of the thugs spoke of somewhat threatening. “You have heard him. Have you heard what he said. I want his head.” The other thugs around, simultaneously slowly yet steadily started preparing to upcoming and arguably inevitable rumble, rolling up their sleeves, cracking their knuckles or massaging their palms. Right than, Logan finally turned his full frame, yet still sitting on the stool to face the thugs, though his patience evidently rapidly declining every second. An intense glare formed on his face as well as gruff man showed his gritted teeth with razor sharp canines, like a fierce dog ready to bite the hand that is feeding him. “Yer standin' on a thin ice, bub. A thin ice ta mess up with a Wolverine.” Logan threatened through his teeth gritting and his index finger pointing to thug leader. “Lotsa things may happen ta guy standin' on a thin ice. Ya may slip and bumpin' yer ramp….Or fall through inta the water a drown. In any case…That’s gonna hurt big time….” However, his sentence cut short and unable to finish, as one of the gang leaders accomplices secretly got his hands on a bottle of beer standing on a counter, swinging it sharply and he hit Logan right in his face with the bottle, which immediately cracked and shattering into a little pieces and the liquid splashed around. “Yeah, yeah. We can get the picture. Now light up, Frodo.” The thug scoffed indifferently, showing no respect and ignoring gruff mans warnings, which would later appear to be a great mistake he would soon regret. Logan stumbled back from his seat with a painful grunting by the impact, yet keeping his balance and still standing on his feet. “Dammit!” Logan hissed, with his face and part of his hair wet from the beer and having two nasty scratches on his right cheek, bleeding a bit. “That hurt.” Gruff man growled menacingly, redirecting his full attention back to thugs with his glare intensifying even further, literally resembling daggers. However, what happened next pulled confused gasps from every thug standing around. The wounds on Logans cheek started instantaneously mending by themselves, before disappearing completely, leaving just a little drop of blood on its place. Wolverines accelerated healing factor did his work. “What…Are you?” The goon who smacked Logan with bottle stuttered incoherently, shocked what just transpired, with gruff mans shaking off the blow and the scratches disappearance. He knew very well, as well as the others present within the bar, that a “normal human being” would never be able to heal wounds like that in such an accelerated and very short. Though, in Logans case, he wasn’t any ordinary human….He was a mutant, Homo Superior. A feral snarl came right from Logans throat, through his gritted teeth and piercing glare, the gruff man raised both of his arms and clenching his palms into fists. “Ya have crossed a wrong Canadian, punks. I am th' best there is at whut I do.” In the instance, three metal razor sharp blades, over foot long, popped out through Logans skin on his knuckles on both of his hands with a loud “SNIKT!” sound, scaring and pulling yet other gasps from the thugs. “But whut I do ain't very nice.” Wolverine stated with his famous and trademark catch phrase. Though seemingly shocked and intimidated by gruff mans metal claws, the goons managed to get themselves together and getting ready to rumble, while some of them armed themselves anything that could be used as a potential melee weapon, like broken bottle, knife, chain, billiard tago or chair. “Get that freak!” Gang leader exclaimed militantly, encouraging his minions to attack the mutant. “Well, if this is th' way ya want it, ya bozos…..Am gonna cut yer life insurance down th' size! RRRRAAAAAGGGHH!!!” Logan roared on top of his lungs and lunging to thugs with his adamantium claws exposed. The things were gonna get ugly….. As sun already and completely set behind the hills beyond the horizon and night once again shrouding Equestria under its cape, a peace and quiet prevailed over usually lively and bustling daytime. Yet on a Canterlot castles courtyard, within the gardens, a night quiet was suddenly disturbed by strange noises echoing right from the depths of the earth, under a lawn. The sounds were steadily getting lounder, it almost looked like something or someone was “digging” his way out right on the surface. And eventually, a huge strong paw with razor sharp claws ripped through the ground under a grass with small pieces of soil and clay spreading around. In the instance, a big darkened head with glowing yellow eyes peeked out, looking around, checking the perimeter, arguably making sure no one was watching, and then, a huge and bulky shadowed creature climbed right from the hole, quickly jumping into a near bushes. However, another, yet much smaller creature in black, jumped from the hole, imitating the actions of its companion, jumping right into the bushes as well. Both creatures peeked their heads from the bushes, eventually appearing to be no one else than Spot and Fido. A two Diamond dogs calved in a black spy suits hugging their frames tightly, were tasked by their lord and master Grogar with a secret and important mission in Canterlot. Though, Fido bore a crossbow on his back along with a small bag, while Spot on the other hand bore also, yet much bigger bag. Whatever exactly their task was, it was still yet about to be confirmed. Spot started sniffing cautiously, flaring his nostrils, catching the air. “The coast is clear.” A smaller bulldog whispered to his taller companion, reassured that here was nopony present within their distance. “Looks that way. For now.” Fido whispered back, while sniffing the air himself and much for his luck, relieving himself that the coast was really clear, before shifting his gaze and pointing his clawed index finger on a large building, posed by several towers. “The throne room is supposed to be over there.” “Right and clear.” Spot whispered in agreement. “Lets go before somepony sees us then.” Strong bulldog instructed as he swiftly leaped from the bushes right behind a near marble fountain and Spot, not wasting any minute quickly following his companions lead. Hiding behind the fountain, both Fido and Spot peeked out, checking their surroundings before Fido leaped from behind, landing on a grass effortlessly with a somersault and finding new cover behind a tree. Spot, followed him from behind by sneaking on his tiptoes right to the tree and hide behind it. Once again, two mutts peek out cautiously to make sure nopony was watching them, before Fido left the cover and started creeping like a jungle cat stalking its prey, while Spot imitated his actions, both dogs sneaking around like in some spy movie. “Come on, Spot. Lets get those tiny legs of yours moving.” Fido instructed his little companion strongly and with a serious tone through whisper, while they already managed to sneak their way across halfway of the garden and steadily getting closer to the castle. “Hey. Back off, mac.” Spot retorted back somewhat offensively, yet keeping his whisper. “You are not a boss of me.” “Technically, I feel as a top dog, when Rover isn’t around. So I AM your boss.” Fido growled a little menacingly, showing a smaller bulldog who was an “alpha dog” here, with a dominance gleaming in his yellow dog like eyes. “Yeah, yeah. Whatever.” Spot huffed indifferently, while still sneaking around the perimeter. “Halt!” Fido suddenly jerked out, yet still managing to keep his voice low, stopping in his tracks and halting Spot from behind with his strong paw as a smaller dog bumped into open palm with his head. A bulky Diamond Dog started sniffing the air and his ears perked out, and despite being quite distant, Fido could hear an upcoming hoof steps. That could mean only one thing, much for Fidos fright…..Somepony was coming. “What?” Spot asked bluntly in whisper rubbing his head, wondering why his taller dog companion suddenly halted himself. “Someone is comming! Hide!” Fido hissed in warning and quickly jumped one a marble pillar, where a statue of a standing unicorn with a waving mane was standing and the mutt immediately took quite awkward or rather humiliating pose like a danseuse beside the statue, like he would actually want to merge with the sculpture. Unfortunately, strong bulldog of course started feeling like an idiot, a cheap mimicking the statue. “Oh, really?!” Spot muttered sarcastically, taken aback and feeling embarrassed about his companions improvised evasive action, yet eventually, though involuntarily doing exactly the same, by taking his own pose several meters away from the sculpture, imitating Fido, much for smaller mutts own indignity and embarrassement. The upcoming hoof steps were getting louder every moment and Fido and Spot in their awkward posing stances started fidgeting a little bit and beads of sweat forming on dogs foreheads, either out of fear or doing their best to keep themselves steady on their places. Finally, a source of the hoof steps appeared. A grey unicorn guard stallion, calved in a dark blue armour being on patrol was slowly trotting his way across the courtyard, looking around with a serious and stern expression and using a magic via his horn as a flash light to lighten his way up. The guard eventually stop at the sculpture and his stern gaze as well as light centred right onto Fido and Spot, checking an unusual or rather weird supposed statues suspiciously. In the same moment, both mutts felt their heartbeats increasingly gaining on speed, when it almost appeared they had drums instead of hearts. Beads of cold sweat kept appearing and flowing down their faces, with a worrying like expressions, yet they were desperately doing their best to keep themselves steady and not even daring to move at least their tongues. But, fortunately for them and for their relief, thinking nothing and feeling indifferently about it, the guard eventually continued in his regular patrol, trotting away before disappearing behind the corner. Finally, when a hoof steps died down completely, right then Fido and Spot could relieve from their poses and taking a rest that they weren’t spotted, taking deep regular breaths to calm themselves down a bit. That was a close one. Yet, managing to recuperate themselves quite quickly from a sticky situation they were both finding themselves in, the Diamond Dogs continued in sneaking they away through, when they finally reached the edge of the courtyard before quickly jumping into a near bushes. They peeked their head out cautiously, and for their dismay, they saw yet other two unicorn guards, holding a spear in their hooves and guarding the entrance to the castle. “Good gracious. This place have more guards than fleas in a fur.” Fido muttered, frustration evident in his voice. “Hello! We are in Canterlot for crying out loud. The Royal Guards are guarding it even better than Cerberus in Tartarus. What else would you just expect.” Spot barked quietly exasperated, irritated by taller dogs obvious cluelessness while watching the guarded entrance cautiously. “Not be helped. We will definitely get there that way.” “In that case, there is only one way….From up there.” Fido whispered and pointing right to castles roof. “This way.” Fido instructed, waving his paw and pointing his head to his right, instructing Spot to follow him, as both bulldogs quietly and carefully left their bushes hiding place so the guards wouldn’t spot them, making their way on their tiptoes right to the corner of the castle. A strong bulky bulldog then took a crossbow from his backs, digging in his backpack as he pulled a grappling hook like arrow, with a rope fixed on its nock and loading his weapon with it. Fido than raised the crossbow up, aiming on the castle roof properly and pressing the trigger. A grappling hook zipped through the calm night air, pulling a rope behind as it flew somewhere beyond the roof and hooking itself somewhere. Fido then pulled the rope several times, testing and making sure it was hooked fest and unable to release itself. “Alright, Spot. Lets climb up there.” Taller dog challenged his smaller companion, while he started climbing a rope himself. “Do I look like a monkey to you?” Spot muttered in both mix of sarcasm and protest, like he would be somewhat reluctant to climb a rope. “Look….If you would mind to remember correctly, Lord Grogar has given us very important task. And right now, our necks are depending on the success of our mission. So, stop whining and come on!” Fido encouraged his smaller companion, yet his voice being somewhat restrained, like he would also be a little afraid by the thoughts what kind of terrible and unimaginable things Grogar himself might intent do the Diamond Dogs if they fail. A strong mutt than spit into his paws in a disgusting like manner which farm pony like Applejack would tolerate and considering normal as a tough country girl, but Rarity in the contrast, a fashionista with a lady like charm would consider such act disgusting and she would even call a “fashion policy” for that. Fido rubbed his paws in order to make its muscles stronger and tight before he started climbing a rope, also supporting his height with his feet touching the wall while climbing up. Though still hesitating a little bit, Spot eventually looked around the area, making sure nopony was watching and better wanting to disappear before the guard comes back, the mutt followed his companions example and started climbing right up, though doing this quite hardly. After several minutes, Fido finally managed to climb on the castle roof, while Spot was just in the middle. A small mutt merely peek down, but of course immediately regretting his action, as his head swam a bit from that height, yet not even daring to release himself from the rope. “I really hope all those jewels and gem stones are worth it.” Spot murmured nervously, thinking about all those sparkling gems and jewels in Grogars personal treasure, considering and wondering if the services with Grogar were worth it. Yet, the mutt kept climbing up, evidently encouraged by his own fear, by both from heights as well as Grogars wraith as the smallest Diamond Dogs finally made it right on the roof also, joining Fidos side. The mutts than started pulling the rope up so it couldn’t bring any suspicious. However, in the same moment, another unicorn guard was patrolling around down there, yet fortunately, Fido and Spot managed to pull the rest of the rope and then hiding themselves with the edge of the roof just in time, before a flash light of the guards horn could spot them. To be continued…..