//------------------------------// // Twisted Evil Part 3: Resident Evil // Story: Dragonfire 🐲 Enter The Dragon Hero 🐲 // by Phantom-Dragon //------------------------------// [Skillet - Falling Inside The Black] Spike, once again, finds himself in a dark hallway with little to no light. Remembering what happened last time, he proceeds with caution. “How they cling to you like a flea to a dog,” A dark, ominous voice said, behind him. Spike immediately turns around to see where the voice came from, but saw nothing. Not letting his guard down, he proceeds further down the crooked halls. What seems like minutes felt like hours for the Dragon Prince. This place was a maze, at best, since he can't figure where to go in these Faust forsaken halls. His eyes glowed fiery green, but that still does little good. He finally finds a door and cautiously opens it. Upon entry, Spike finds what appears to be a living room, decorated with a couch, a coffee table, a tv with a VCR, and a rocking chair. Sitting on the coffee table is a video tape, with a note on it that reads, "play me." Hesitant at first, Spike eventually complies and puts the tape in the VCR. The video plays and he sees the Five Element Bearers, with Rainbow Dash missing, the Knights, Celaeno, Sunset, and Starlight. All of them are seen standing in front of a big mansion. Spike looked somewhat troubled at the mansion, getting a strange vibe that he’s seen this mansion before. “All right everyone,” Twilight said. “This is where Spike was last seen. Lets search the mansion and see if we can find him." Spike was shocked by this. They were searching for him? He disappeared?! Something wasn't adding up so he continues watching the video, curious to where it goes. "Do we really need this camera?" Rainbow complained, as she was the one holding the said camera. "Yes Rainbow,” Twilight replied. “But why?” Applejack asked. “It’s not like we’re making a movie or anything.” "No we're not," Twilight answered. "But we may still need the camera, because in case anything happens to us, then the least we can do is leave behind some sort of warning for others who would try and find us." The girls all looked at each other, still unsure of Twilight's reason, but complied nonetheless. "Now stop complaining and let's get a move on." And so they went through the gates and entered the mansion. Spike sat down on the couch, as he anxiously watch the scene unfold before him. Upon reaching the the main halls Twilight made a suggestion, "Seeing how big this place is, I think it's best that we should split up." "Whoa, whoa, whoa...whoa!" Button exclaimed in protest. "Splitting the party is a very bad idea in this kind of scenario!"Button pointed out. "Don't you watch any horror movies? When you split up, that's what-" Button draws a line across his neck with his index finger, while imitating a cutting sound, "-happens," He finished. "Button! This is NOT the time to go nerd on us," Rumble said rolling his eyes. "Spike is missing and we need to search every nook and cranny in this place." Button frowned, seeing how he's not being taken seriously, "Fine. But if anything happens, I told you so." Button warned, everyone else rolled their eyes. The party splitted into two groups: the Elements of Harmony Bearers in one group, Celeano and the Knights in the second group, and Sunset and Starlight in the third. As the three groups went their separate ways, the Element Bearers made their way towards the kitchen, which looks surprisingly uptight and clean. "Okay, this isn't right," Twilight said, looking around room, searching for clues. Rarity picked up on Twilight’s suspicions, “Indeed, darling,” She agreed. “This whole room is all spit-spot, and clean as a whistle, compared to the shambled exterior of the house, outside.” Without warning, Pinkie popped her head out from a cupboard, “Kinda out of place if you ask me!” Pinkie chirped. “Like you?” Rainbow asked from off-screen. “Exactly!” Pinkie agreed, with a squee. Fluttershy looked around, before she began to speak quietly, “Um, pardon me.” Of course, Fluttershy was ignored as the girls continue to search the place. Rainbow Dash had placed the camera on a counter, and she soon joined in the shot with the others, searching for clues. “Excuse me,” Fluttershy spoke again. Spike, together with Twilight in the video, both noticed something was missing. “Where’s Applejack?” Twilight asked. While everyone looked around, Fluttershy took the chance to speak, “She’s-“ “GONE!!” Pinkie finished. Fluttershy sighed, “Yes,” She confirmed, clearly having known that before hoof. “Applejack?” The girls called, as they all exited the kitchen, and began searching the mansion, from top to bottom, room to room. From his seat, Spike’s claws dug deep into the fabrics of the sofa, watching anxiously for the girls to find Applejack. Through Rainbow Dash’s point of view, via the camera, the girls each looked from room to room, all the while calling out, “Applejack? Applejack? Are you here?” Suddenly, a loud shriek was heard, from above. “Fluttershy!” Rainbow exclaimed, as the camera shook violently, indicating that Rainbow has taken flight and was racing to the rescue. With another burst of speed, the shot turns up, as Rainbow flies up a hatch, with a ladder in the ceiling, leading her to the attic. “Fluttershy?” Rainbow called, moving the camera from side-to-side, frantically searching for the frightened pegasus. “Fluttershy? Where are you?” In response, a small frightened squeak was heard, to which Rainbow turned her head, to find Fluttershy, curled up close in a corner, looking as if she’s just seen a ghost. Rainbow quickly dashed over to her frightened friend, setting the camera on the floor, just as the others arrived at the scene, “Fluttershy?” Rainbow asked. “What is it? What’s wrong?” Fluttershy could only shake and quiver, while looking off in a specific direction. With that, the girls all followed her gaze, and the looks on their faces clearly matched to Fluttershy’s look of horror. Suddenly, a loud shriek filled the room, startling the girls. Before long, something attacked them, from the dark. During the scuffle, the camera was sent tossing and turning, through which Spike can see Applejack, dangling from the ceiling, with the noose of a rope tied around her neck. The very sight sent chills running up Spike's spines, and horror was clearly written on his face. But not as much as the lights in the room suddenly turned dark, and he could hear the sounds of screaming, everywhere. "Spikey-Wikey!" Rarity called. "Where are you?!!" "Spikey isn't here to save you this time...." A voice replied, as the screaming continues, before coming to an abrupt silence. "Look how they became dependant on you Dragon Prince." There was that voice again, "Because of you, they would always expect you to just come in and save the day." Though he initially refused to listen, those last words struck him hard, like flying nerve bullets that pierced his skin and stopped him. Have his friends really become too dependant of him? Spike didn’t have time to ponder, as the darkness around him vanished. The young prince looked around him, to see his friends were all hung on wooden poles. "Girls?! Guys?!!" Spike called to his friends. But none of them responded. Then, without warning, the poles were all set on fire, together with his friends. "NOOO!!!" With a look of dread, Spike tried to run up to his friends, but finds himself being held down by more dark chains that kept him bound to the ground. "No! Not again!" Spike quickly shifted in dragon form, as he struggles, biting and clawing at the chains in vain. But he could do nothing as he watches in horror, at the sight of his friends being burned to cinders. "NOOOOO!!!" Spike screamed, closing his eyes, failing to hold back the tears pouring out. "Spike....." A weak voice called. Spike jerked his head up, as he turns around to see his mother, Princess Celestia, bound and gagged. Standing besides her, holding a large garden scythe, appears to be a human with long black hair with gray highlights tied to a ponytail, for attires he wears a black fedora, a long black trench coat, black pants and cleats, he also wears a necklace with a raven skull at the end. Raising his scythe, the human then proceeds to slit celestia's throat with the scythe much, to Spike's absolute horror. Then, a flash of blue light filled the room, and standing before Spike, shining like the only beacon of light, was Princess Luna herself. "Aunt Luna?" Spike questioned. *Kabuki Yooooo SFX* Before Luna could speak, however, she was struck from behind by the figure, disappearing in blue mists. [My Dying Bride - Thy Raven Wings] "AUNTIE!! NO!!!" Spike called, holding his claws out for the alicorn, before he turns to face the figure. "Why should you care what happens to her, after everything she did and what she putted you through." The figure said harshly who then approaches the Dragon Prince, and continued in a haunting whisper, "We all fall down." Spike's eyes were filled with fire, "Not today..." he said as he turns into his dog form and manage to slip through the chains. He then leaps at the figure, while concentrating hard to shift into his dragon form. Unfortunately, the figure grabs him before he could transform completely and proceeds to bite off one of his hind legs. Spike screamed in pain as he was dropped on the floor. He then notices the figure approching him and tries to escape but it did little good do to one of his missing legs. The figure lifts him up by the collar with his scythe and takes over to the nearest garbage shoot. With a wicked grin he tosses him down where shredding saws are at the bottom. Just as Spike is about to hit the saws, he wakes up screaming, startling Peewee in the process. He throws the covers to check on the leg that was bitten off and sees that it's still intact. With a long heavy sigh he just lays back down and tries to go back to sleep. While trying to get comfy again, Spike can feel the concerned look from Peewee, washing over him. Even with Peewee acting as his only guard, and his only companion at the moment, it still did little good for convincing Spike to sleep soundly. Elsewhere There was a dark room, until a portal opened up with the figure stepping out, all the while holding a black gem. "Did that stupid horse really thought I was a simple nightmare? She must still be regaining her strength after getting her ass kicked. Especially since she went down so easily," The figure said to himself, "Meh, no matter. Sooner or later the Dragon Prince will crack and not even mommy or dear aunt luna will help him." The Next Morning Elsewhere *Allman Brothers Band - Midnight Rider* The stranger was sitting in chair reading a black book, drinking some coffee and just enjoying some music from the radio next to him until the music suddenly stopped, much to the stranger's annoyance. "We interrupt this broadcast to give you the latest update on the fear plague that has been going on in Ponyville," Said the announcer. This got the stranger's attention, "Right now there are 49 known patients at the Ponyville hospital who have this strange disease." The stranger grinned himself, sadistically. "However," The announcer continued, "Princess Twilight Sparkle advices everypony to remain calm as she, Prince Spike Draco, and their companions are looking into this strange epidemic, even as we spe-" The announcer suddenly paused, "Wha-what! How did that manticore get in here?!?! No get away!!! Get aw-" The radio went silent for a few seconds until it cut back to the song it previously played. *Allman Brothers Band - Midnight Rider* The stranger smirked, 'Now there's 50,' he thought as he turned up the radio, and continued his morning routine. Later The stranger was walking around Ponyville, which is a ghost town by this point because everyone has either caught the fear plague or are scared to go outside, because of said plague. All of the changed, when he hears... "Stop right there!" Twilight shouted, catching the metahuman's attention, as he turns to face her. "Sir, you're coming with us!" She said while holding a device in her aura. "You've got some explaining to do!" An officer barked. In response, the man just shrugged, "Whatever you say, your majesty," He hissed at the last part. Twilight had a look of suspicion, as she watched the cops take the metahuman away. At the train station, the train just rolled in, steams fuming from the engines, and the whistle blowing. Several ponies and various creatures all exited from the cars and onto the platform. Among them are a few reformed Shadowbolts-a chimera, a griffon, and a minotaur, accompanying the reformed Somnambula. Looking at their surroundings, while ignoring a few stares from the civilians around them, Somnambula and her guards all ventured down to Ponyville. "Are you sure we should be doing this mistress?" The minotaur guard asked, uneasily. "I'm still a little shaken from what happened the last time." In response, Somnambula simply patted the minotaur guard on the shoulder in comfort, "Be brave," She whispered. At the Police Station The man sat in a chair, hands cuffed, and a single light shining over him. “This is our guy?” Button asked, standing behind a window screen with the rest of his friends. “Wow. He’s even creepier in person.” Inside the interrogation room, Rainbow Dash was in anthro from, as she slammed her hands on the table, “Alright buster!” Rainbow barked, as she got close to his face. “Start talking!” “Quick! What color is my underwear?” Pinkie asked, while giving him a stink eye. Irked, Rainbow gave Pinkie a dope slap, “PINKIE!!” Rainbow hollered. “You’re not supposed to ask him that question!” “I’m not?” Pinkie asked, acting oblivious. "Of course not," The man answered. "Do I look like a peeping tom to you?" Pinkie scratched her chin, "Well, you kinda-" "Oh no you don't!" Rainbow interrupted. “Don't try and change the subject! Start talking mister!” Rainbow snarled. “Why are you doing all this?!” “Do what?” The man asked. “What makes you think I’m responsible for any of this?” “Don’t play coy with us!” Rainbow threatened. “We know it’s you! You're behind this whole living nightmare fiasco!” "Yeah!" Pinkie joined. "We've been smelling trouble, and we put two and two and two together and it added up to you!" "That and Twilight's been tracking you down with her fancy meta tracker, doohickey," Rainbow said. The man appeared unfazed, "Ah, a meta tracker, very nice," He grinned. "Alright, I confess. I'm a metahuman. You happy? So what are you gonna do? Lock me up? Banish me to the moon?" "Just watch your tongue mister!" Rainbow threatened. While Rainbow Dash And Pinkie Pie continue with their interrogation, Twilight watched from behind a window, with the rest of the Bearers, Sunset, Starlight, Spike, and his Knights, minus Pipsqueak. Ever since they brought the man in, Twilight has been keeping a very close watch of the suspicious man. She knows he has a motive, but wasn’t sure what. Sunset Shimmer was of no help. Even with her gifted power to read minds, she’s unable to look deep within the metahuman’s mind. Applejack looked, picking up on Twilight’s uneasiness, “Ya alright, Twi?” Applejack asked. “Ya seemed tense.” "He gave up entirely without a fight," She said to herself. "I don't like it." “Maybe he's simply being cooperative, darling," Rarity suggested. "Besides, everyone knows that if you run when you're being confronted by the cops, then you're automatically the prime suspect." "And since when do you know so much about criminal activities?" Applejack asked. "Honestly, don't you read?" Rarity asked. "I don't read the mystery book series Shadow Spades for nothing darling." "That still doesn't help, Rarity!" Twilight replied. "He's up to something! I just know it!" "I do as well," A voice spoke up, to which the heroes turned to see Somnambula, accompanied with a few Shadowbolts. "Somnambula?!" The heroes exclaimed, as they quickly got into the defensive. "What are you doing here?!" Applejack asked, firing a distrustful glare at Somnambula. "Better question is, why are you here?" Spike added. Somnambula raised her hoof up, "Please, we only came here to help," She assured. "We never called for any help!" Starlight Glimmer frowned. "That's because we are here by orders of Princess Luna," The minotaur spoke. "She had a vision that involves all of you ponies and creature in trouble, so she sent us here for assistance." This got both Starlight Glimmer and Sunset Shimmer intrigued, "Princess Luna sent you?" The former fiery Shadowbolt asked. "You bet she did, Phoenix Princess," The griffon replied. "Don't believe us? Read our minds then. We know you can." Before Sunset could comply, Rumble stood up, "Look, we don't even care if you're sent here by Princess Celestia herself!" Rumble said, as he unsheathes his sword, with his fellow Knights unsheathing their weapons. "Get out, or we'll throw you out!" "Works for me," Applejack added. "Here here!" Rarity agreed. Just before the two sides were about to go at it with each other, Twilight got in between in a flash of light, followed by a burst of magic, "FREEZE!!!" She screamed, stopping everyone in their tracks. Sunset quickly took over, as an orange amulet appeared around her neck. With the amulet glowing in her aura, Sunset's horn lit up, and her eyes turned white, as she navigates through the minds of the Shadowbolts, and Somnambula. At last, Sunset's eyes reverted to normal. "It's okay," Sunset answered. "They're legit." The heroes all looked at Sunset, surprised, "Really?" Applejack asked, clearly with hints of doubts. Sunset looked somewhat appalled at the question, "What does that suppose to mean?" Sunset asked. "You doubt me?" Applejack realized, too late, what she just asked, "Well, I-uh...." Spike quickly spoke up, "Come on, let's hear them out," He said. "If Sunset says they're legit. Then they're legit. Let's hear what they have to say." With that, Twilight releases her telekinetic grip on the Shadowbolts, "That metahuman you have in the room with you," Somnambula began. "I know who he is." Back in the interrogation room, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie continued with their interrogation, when Somnambula entered the room, "I see you're up to your old tricks again, Fear Haunter." She began bitterly. "And who just might you be?" The metahuman questioned, before he took notice of the staff the Egyptian pegasus was carrying, behind her back. "So this is what you really look like," He shrugs, "Eh, you look better any way. Way more appealing than an old hag." "I'm flattered..." Somnambula said narrowing her eyes at the metahuman, with the Shadowbolts at her sides following. "Whoa-whoa! Hold on there!" Rainbow barked. "First, what are you doing here? And second, you know this guy?!" "Yeah, Rainbow Dash," The griffon Shadowbolt answered. "We know him all too well." "Really?" Pinkie asked. "So who is he? Friend of yours?" Somnambula scoffed, "I'd wish." A Few Months earlier, somewhere in Louisiana Dark Rebirth - JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Stardust Crusaders Somnambula and Cinch have looks of pure shock on their faces as if they were insulted, or something. "I'm sorry, Fear. But would you care to repeat that, to our faces?" Somnambula asked, her face distorting to an expression of anger. A tall man in black, named Fear, was sitting in a chair reading a black book, rolled his eyes in annoyance, "Fine I will," He said, as he closes his book with a loud thump. "I have no interest in joining you're little group. Nor do I wanna serve some bipolar horse with family issues." "How DARE you insult her majesty Nightmare Moon, demon sorceress of the moon?!" One of the two Shadowbolts accompanying the two women angrily asked. "And the one true ruler of Equestria?!" Fear chuckled at this, "Boy your 'demon sorceress' is a lot of things," he sneered. "But the 'one true ruler' ain't one of 'em," he replied. "Listen! You could be a very valuable asset to us. We could use someone with your talents against the Dragon Prince and his allies!" Cinch said, trying a more friendly approach. "Well too bad, my answer is still no," Fear said, smugly. "I'd rather join either the Cerulean Hunters, the House of Meta, or even the Storm King, than with the likes of you." "A very poor choice of words mister Haunter!" Somnambula yelled, slashing her staff, firing a bolt of lightning. Reacting fast, Fear Haunter dispersed into a puff of smoke, before he reappears, standing behind the sorceress, "You know Somnambula," He began. "We all have our fears, and I'm curious to know what's your's." "I fear nothing!" She spat. "Tsk, tsk miss Somnambula. Lying to yourself isn't going to do you any good." The twisted metahuman said. Everything suddenly starts to go dark around Somnambula, "What trickery is this?!" She yelled. THUMP Somnambula's angry expression quickly changes into a troubled look. It was a sound she heard before. THUMP "...No." She murmured. THUMP "It can't be!" The thumping had suddenly ceased. Somnambula looked around and saw nothing, until she heard a low growl behind her. Looking over her shoulder, what she saw terrified her. The Subway - Nathan Whitehead Standing behind her is a silhouette of a 12 foot tall humanoid figure, with massive bird-like wings, and a long lizard-like tail. The figure also has glowing red eyes looking right at her.The beast then slams it's tail and lets out a mighty roar. "No no no no NO NO NO NOOOO!!!!! GET AWAY!!!!!" Somnambula yelled. The sorceress quickly pointed her staff at the thing but no spells or anything seems to be coming out. She looks up and sees the figure bearing down on her. It raises it's cleaver and strikes her. Somnambula quickly dodges out of the way but is met with a tail to the face. Acting fast she cast a few incantations and there was a flash of light. With that, everything soon cleared up for Somnambula as she finds herself back in the real world and the pain she felt quickly vanished. However, she was greeted with absolute shock. Lying on the floor before her was Abacus Cinch curled up in a ball, whimpering for dear life. Meanwhile, the two young Shadowbolts were ready to attack the metahuman, until they suddenly began experiencing horrifying visions of their own. "Mom? Wait, what are you doing?!" One Shadowbolt screamed. "Ahhh they're all over me!!! Get 'em off!!!" Screamed the other. Somnambula looked on with absolute horror, the next thing she knew Fear Haunter appeared before her. "Hows THAT for an answer?" He asked with a hint of annoyance. He then grabs Somnambula by the collar and pulls her closer, "Listen and listen well you arrogant peace of filth. If you truly think that you know fear, or that you're the baddest bunch around, then you have NO idea how wrong you are!" Snarling in defiance, Somnambula breaks free from Fear Haunter's grip, "You will pay dearly for this!" The sorceress hissed, before she tapped the floor with her staff, and summoned some winged monkeys, together with some huge hulking nightmare beasts. "SEIZE HIM!!" "I think not, fools!" Fear Haunter laughed mockingly as he disappears in a puff of smoke. Somnambula stamped her staff on the ground, angrily, before she turns to see Abacus Cinch, and her two Shadowbolts, on the floor, in fetal positions. "The nerve of those people," Fear Haunter grumbled. "Their high and mighty attidude is going to come back and bite them.HARD." He scoffed as he finds a seat, and continues reading his book, finding a moment of peace. "But still," He ponders as he puts a hand up his chin. "I wonder what this 'Dragon Prince' fear?" He asks himself grinning wickedly. "Maybe Ishouldplan a visit to Equestria to find out. But first," He said while pulling out another book, a brown one that says 'TheTrueHistory of Equestria By F' on the cover, "I had to break some bones to get my hands on you. Lets see if you're worth the read." Somewhere Abacus Cinch and the two Shadowbolts were still screaming, by the time Somnambula took them to safety. The inflicted Shadowbolts were being checked up, by Joe. "How serious is it?" Somnambula asked. "Not too fatal," Joe replied, ominously. "The fear they're experiencing will wear off in a day, or two. Give or take," He finished, before he turned to Somnambula. "And I've already warned you, many times about bargaining with metahumans." "Metahumans, or not. They're still humans, in some ways," Somnambula replied. "And their powers are just as superiors, compared to our magics." "And they're just as dangerous," Joe replied, gravely. "Perhaps it would be more prudent to first develop some weaponry, designed to fight meta genes. Besides, I wouldn't have gone through all the trouble of pilfering these, would I?" Joe asked, as he showcased an array of weapons, before Somnambula. The most defining feature for each of the weapon, was the fact they all bore a logo, of an eagle with two dogs. Present "And here we are," Somnambula concluded, before she turns to Fear Haunter. "You've had your fun, Fear," She glowered. "Now stop all of this!" Fear looked at Somnambula, sneering, "Still trying to give me orders?" He glowered. "Either you're still as foolish, or very stubborn, than you were, before your recent defeat. Of course, that's a common trait for all of you shadow types. Just like your princess. Weak, arrogant, cowardly-“ The chimera let out a roar through her tiger head, as she snarled, “You watch your tongue, metahuman!” She threatens. “Nobody insults Princess Luna and gets away with it!” Fear rolled his eyes, and shook his head in defiance, “Enough!” Rainbow shouted as she once again stared face-to-face with the madman. “I’m going to ask you again! Stop this plague NOW!!!” “And my answer to you, and your precious princesses remains, no!” Fear Haunter spatted. “I was hoping you’d say that,” Somnambula narrowed her eyes, before she tapped her staff, conjuring a certain fruit. Fear gasped, “OH! Is that-?!” “A pear?” Somnambula asked. “Yes, it is. And if you don’t cooperate right now, then I’ll force this down into your throat!” Following on her threat, Somnambula levitated the pear over to Fear, with the Shadowbolts prying his mouth open. With their claws digging into his skin, both the griffin and the chimera scratched his face as they forced his mouth open, enough for the pear to enter, while the minotaur stood behind and holds him down. As the pear was being forced into his throat, Fear groaned in disgust as he recalls a bad memory involving pears. Thinking fast, Fear bites down on the pear, while biting on the griffon and the chimera’s claws, causing them to yelp, and unfortunately, released their hold on the man, who quickly head butted the minotaur, in the nose, with the back of his head. The heroes watched in awe as the man quickly picked up the griffon, as if it was nothing but feathers as he tossed the creature at the minotaur. Then, the chimera strikes, pouncing on the man, pinning him down, roaring in his face, and baring its larger saber teeth at him. Summoning all his strength, Fear thrusts his legs into the chimera’s stomach, forcing her off, and into Pinkie Pie. Somnambula waved her staff, before she fired a bolt of magic at Fear, striking him, exploding upon impact, before the minotaur throws a punch at him from behind. Fear fell on his hands, before he gets back up, and catches another punch from the minotaur, as he twisted the tall, muscular bull creature's arm and hurled him towards Somnambula and Rainbow Dash. Somnambula dodged to the side, but Rainbow was not so fortunate. "Oh you want to do this the hard way?!" Rainbow asked bitterly, wiggling free from the minotaur. "We'll do this the hard way!" "Bring it, rainbow freak!" Fear Haunter taunted. "Enough of this!" Spike growled, as he storms into the room. "You're on thin ice, Fear! As prince, I demand you stop this at once!" "Oh my, acting all high and mighty now are we?" Fear taunted. "I wonder if there's a hint of someone rather small and insecure, underneath all that rough exterior." Sunset was peering into the metahuman's mind, before she spoke via telepathy, "Don't listen to him, Spike," Sunset warned. "Don't listen to anything he says." Spike stood firm, as Fear glares at him, "Don't try and hide it, Dragon Prince," The man began. "Even with all the praises you've been getting for your heroism, and good deeds to the magical creatures, it doesn't change the fact that everyone are still weary of you, and have kept a good distance from you. Or the fact you were abandoned by your birth parents out of disgusts." Slightly irked, Spike scoffed, "What do you know about my birth parents?" He asked. [The Dark Knight OST - Just A Little Push] "Plenty enough to know that the moment they looked at you, they cringed to see they didn't get a normal human child," Fear began. "Instead, all they got was a cursed child with eyes and fangs of a dragon." Spike frowned as he stood defiantly, "I know you can remember again. I'm sure you can now recall again, about how you were left on the steps of a church, by your disgusted mother, on the same night when you were found by General Scorpan and taken to Equestria." Spike's eyes suddenly flashed a blaze of green, with a clap of thunder echoing through his mind. As if he was really struck by another lightning, Spike felt a familiar throbbing, burning, painful sensation going through his head, as he suddenly has a vision of himself, as an infant, crying and holding his hands for his biological mother, whom he can vaguely see her face. Realizing what Fear was doing, Spike shook his head, as he glowered at Fear, "Stop it! Enough of these mind games! Stop this plague of fear! Every pony are scared enough as it is!" "What does it matter?" Fear asked. "Even if I do stop the plague, everypony will still be afraid of one more thing. You." "As if!" Rainbow snarled. "What makes you say that we're afraid of Spike?" "Yeah!" Pinkie joined. "That's a load of phony-baloney! And I don't even know what baloney is!" The chimera Shadowbolt's snake head whispered into Pinkie's ear to what exactly a baloney is. Pinkie looked troubled, "Okay, now I wished you didn't tell me that." Getting back on topic, while ignoring Rainbow Dash, Fear continued, "Oh yes, Spike. You have quite the reputation here. You can attempt to conceal it, but it's obvious. The ponies are still afraid of you, despite all of your 'noble heroics.'" "That's absurd!" Rainbow glared, only for her to be silenced by Spike, who raised his hand up. Turning back at the metahuman, Spike snarled, baring his dragon fangs, "I'll ask you again. End this now, and you won't have to feel my wrath! Or mom, if I don't come first!" Fear could only laugh, "Listen to yourself," He chortled. "Trying to act all tough and intimidating, and yet you still think so highly about mommy Celestia. Such a softie." "What's there not to think so highly of?" Spike asked. "She took me in. She gave me everything. A home, a loving family, and she's helped me made some friends. I owe my life to her. Which is why you will understand that I'll do everything it takes to protect this world from monsters like you!" "And do you know what's amusing?" Fear asked. "You swear that you will protect this world from monsters like me. But who's going to protect this world from monsters like you? You may be adopted, or a prince, or even a 'hero.' But that doesn't change the fact that you're still a dragon. And not just any dragon. You're living vessel of the Dragonfire; a legendary magical force that has the power of a thousand dragons, maybe more. Which makes you a threat." Spike remained stoic, while trying to remember a lesson he once learned from his uncle. However, Fear's words made it difficult for him to remember, as the metahuman continued, "Accept it. Not everyone are thrilled of your return. Your surrogate cousin, Prince Vladimir Blueblood is one. But there are others besides him who share a mutual distrust to the likes of you. As I recall, that old coot, Grand Pear, is another." While Spike would laugh at the thought of his spoiled, pompous, and arrogant cousin, the mention of Applejack's grandfather made all thoughts of denial disappear, as he recalls the elder stallion's stern attitude towards him. "Don't you get it? No pony loved you!" Fear spatted. "They only tolerated you, because of Princess Celestia. And your posse, the Knights. Ha! I'll bet you anything they only became your friends, just for street credits. And your beloved mother?" Fear could only shook his head. "She only cared for you, claiming you have a great destiny, when in reality, she and General Scorpan were only making you grow to become a living weapon. All they ever expect of you is some all-powerful creature, whom they can rely on to protect their kingdom, maybe themselves, whichever comes first. But at the same time, they'll be afraid of you, the moment you start to grow up, too powerful than they'd expect you to be." Fear laughed himself in amusement, as he continues, “You can try and deny it, but the truth is clear. No matter how hard you fight, no matter how many creatures you’ve protected, you will always be seen as a walking disaster, just waiting to happen!” Fear's words were becoming too unbearable, one after another, and it was getting too hard for Spike to stay calm. Spike was going to give the metahuman a piece of his mind, when someone else beat him to it. "THAT'S IT!!" Rainbow roared, as she leaped at Fear, and punched him in the face. In retaliation, Fear grabbed Dash by the wing, spins her around before he tossed her into a wall. "You've got nerves, Dash," Fear sneered, before he unsheathes a knife. "Too bad I've got to rip it out of ya." Upon seeing the frightened look on Dash's face, Spike’s finally had it. Loud beating of drums can be heard, as Spike’s eyes turned slit and burned a blazing green. Before Fear could react, Spike morphed into his dragon form, as he leaped towards Fear, and pinned him to the ground, knocking the knife out of his hand. Arching his head in the air, Spike breathed a burst of green fire at Fear, who arched his head to the side, avoiding the attack. Then, with a surprising amount of strength, Fear thrusted his legs into Spike's stomach, forcing the dragon off. Spike quickly got up, as he whips his tail at Fear, who ducked his head, avoiding the attack, only to be met with a strong headbutt, to the chest. Rainbow Dash, after recovering from a repeat of her Pinkamena Cupcake Nightmare scenario, watched in shock, with Pinkie Pie, Somnambula, and the Shadowbolts. The group watched in shock, as Spike was going all out on the metahuman. Soon, a few cops, Applejack, and Twilight came into the room, as they pulled Spike off, and out of the room. "Spike! Calm down!" Twilight strained, holding her magical grip on Spike. "Let it go, Sugarcube!" Applejack groaned, even with her super strength hold on Spike, she was having a hard time holding him down. "Oh, come on!" Rainbow groaned. "It was getting to the best part!" The girls all fired glares at Dash, who quickly shushed up, "Um, I mean, yeah let's go!" As the group left, Pinkie turned to Fear, and morphed her hooves into hands, as she pointed them at her eyes, then at Fear Haunter, before she left. Fear rolled his eyes, chuckling in a sinister manner, before he noticed a crack in the wall, courtesy of their early scuffle. Outside the police station, the friends were all gathered around Spike, calming him down after his recent talk with Fear Haunter. “Spike! Calm down!” Twilight said, as she continues to maintain her magical grip on the raging dragon. “Deep breaths!” Rainbow struggled. “Deep breaths! Just think calm blue sky!” “And cupcakes!” Pinkie added. “Yummy, soft, gem encrusted cupcakes with your name on it!” After awhile, Spike finally calms down as the fiery aura around him dissipates, and he slowly reverted back to his human form. “Are you alright now?” Starlight asked in concern for Spike. “Yeah. I guess,” Spike sighed. "I'm just more worried for Rainbow Dash, after the way he threatened that knife on you," He turned to the rainbow maned pegasus. "Well, I'm alright now," Rainbow replied. "But thanks for the save." Spike then looked back down on the ground, "Still, the things he said," Spike took a deep breath, as he sighed, "Who does he think he is? What makes him think he knows everybody better than I know you? All of you?" "That scoundrel!" Rarity frowned. “You really shouldn’t let that ruffian’s words get to you darling. They’re not true, and you know it.” “Yeah! Like we’d ever see you as a weapon!” Rainbow added. “Or a walking disaster!” Applejack added. “And what makes you think we became your friend just because it would give us street credits?” Button Mash asked. “You saved our lives bro! You brought us all together! There wouldn't be us, without you.” “Yeah! What about all those awesome times we’ve had, before any of these magic stuffs began?” Rumble added. "We thought you were awesome, without your magics! Who's the only kid to have beaten me in a one-on-one game of basketball?" "Or Street Fighters?" Button added. "Or all those dance-offs we've had?" Tender asked. "We're brothers, Spike. And brothers for life! And you're still one of us, dragon or not." "What they said," Featherweight joined. Spike looked at all of his friends, "You're right." He spoke. "I’m sorry you guys. I’m just under a lot of pressure lately. I wish I could be of some help. And I wish I could really do something to save everyone from this whole plague of fear.” Starlight Glimmer placed a hoof on his shoulder, "Hey, we're not asking you to save everyone, right away." Starlight assured. "These things take time." "Yeah, no pony's doubting you," Sunset added. 'Unlike some ponies,' She thought grimly, towards Applejack. "And not everything revolves around only you," Twilight added. "Don't forget, we're all in this together. You're not alone." “And it’s okay if not every pony likes ya, Spike!” Applejack added. “I don’t care if Grand Pear is all disapproval about ya." Applejack couldn't help but blush, as she thought, 'Because you’re the apple of my-' Just then, a pegasus cop came bursting out of the station, "Princess Twilight! Princess Twilight!!" The pegasus cop shouted, before he came to a halt before the princess. "Officer Sentry!" Twilight gasped, as she gently calms the pegasus. "What is it? What's wrong?" "He's gone!" Officer Sentry exclaimed. "Who's gone?" "Fear Haunter! He just disappeared!" "WHAT?!!" The heroes all shouted, looking at the cop in bewilderment. "How did that happen?!" Rainbow asked, getting close in the pegasus's face. "I don't know," Sentry replied. "One second, he was just in the interrogation room. And the next, he's just gone. Vanished into thin air!" "That's impossible!" Twilight exclaimed. "That room was rigged with the highest and the latest technologies against meta-humans, with a few powerful spells for added precautions. I can't escape, let alone use his powers!" Just then, another officer reported, "We found out, who he got away," The officer panted. "Through a little crack in the wall. Obviously, it must've been made during the scuffle between him and Prince Spike." Spike instantly face palmed himself, realizing he had unintentionally let a madman escape. Twilight walked over and gave Spike a pat, while the rest of the heroes all looked at each other, frightfully exchanging questions on their next course of actions. "Twilight! Where is he?" Applejack asked. "Yeah, where is he, Twi?" Rainbow joined. Twilight looked at her meta tracker, but was puzzled and dismayed to see more than one trail of metahuman activity on her grid, "WHAT?!" Twilight shouted in bewilderment, as she shakes the device, out of frustration. "What's the matter, Twi?" Spike asked. "See for yourself," Twilight replied, showing the status on her device, to the rest of her friends. "What the devil?!" Rarity exclaimed. "What is the meaning of this?" "There's no way we're gonna find him like that!" Rainbow grumbled. "It's like a huge maze now!" "How are we suppose to find him in all that tangle paths of fear?" Applejack asked. Taking a deep breath, Twilight answered, "There's only one logical way to do this," She began. "We split up, and search for this man!" Spike's eyes widened, as he recalls his previous nightmare, "Spli-spli-split up?" He asked. "Yes, Spike," Twilight replied. "Split up. Is there a problem?" She asked, with a raised eyebrow. Before Spike could answer, Button butted in, "I think Spike's onto something here," The nerd boy began. "If you've been paying attention to your horror movies, when you split up, that's what-" Button imitated a knife cut across his neck, "-happens." "Button! Now's not the time to go nerd on us," Rumble retorted with a roll of his eyes. "We've got a madman on the loose, threatening every pony, and possibly every creatures' lives with his fear power! We have to stop him before it gets out of hand!" Button frowned, "Fine! But don't say I didn't warn you!" He said. "We'll help too," Somnambula spoke up, with the Shadowbolts at her sides in agreement. "We feel that this fear plague is partially our fault." Everyone appeared a bit on the fence about this, even Sunset Shimmer,. "Look it's obvious you don't trust us or even like us at that, not that we blame you considering all the crap we pulled." The chimera explained. "That's putting it mildly." Tender grumbled. "Point is there's a lunatic on the loose and you need all the help you can get right now." The griffon stated. The heroes all look at each other until Rumble spoke up, "Fine. But you better not get in our way." With that, everyone all split up, while Spike was a little bit reluctant.