The Lost Hero

by Ultimate Warrior of Zera

Passing The Torch

Clark and Maud awkwardly untangled themselves from Pinkie’s arms. He spoke.

“We will. Just don’t rush us.”

Pinkie beamed.

“Good! I’ll set up the party!”

She zoomed off, easily disappearing from even Clark’s sight. Clark and Maud prepared to move, but Rarity interrupted.

“My, oh my, this will never do. Two ponies cannot go on a date without looking their absolute best!”

The two looked at themselves. In the course of their adventures, their clothes were dirty and torn up in places. Their fur was dirty and matted as well.

“You must simply allow me to clean and mend your wardrobes. It will be free of charge!”

Clark was grateful.

“Thank you. Oh darn it, I don’t have any money.”

Smiling, Princess Cadence stepped in.

“After everything you have done for us, we can let that slide for the day. Feel free to enjoy yourselves.”

“Heh. That will be appreciated.”

Rarity was extremely excited. If there was anything she loved more than fashion, it was helping romance along.

“This will only take half an hour, an hour at most.”

She gently pulled Maud’s dress and Clark’s jacket and cape off with her telekinesis, then rushed into the palace to begin her work, as she just remembered the time she helped Cadence get ready for the Equestria Games inspector and knew she was free to use their equipment. Spike immediately followed her offering his assistance. Clark only felt self-conscious for a moment before remembering the many unclothed ponies around him and that he hadn't been wearing pants anyway. Cadence addressed the pair again.

“After all this fighting, you could use a bath.”

“That would be appreciated.”

The others decided to get ready for the party. After Maud returned the Aegis of Gaia to Trixie, who then gave it to Daring Do after enchanting her pockets to be able to hold them, the pair were ushered into the spa and separated, then were bathed and massaged by the workers. For the first time in a long time, Clark truly let his guard down and took a nap as this was happening. He vaguely heard others entering and using the spa’s services.

As he woke up and thanked them, they trimmed the stubble that had been building up for the past few days with magic scissors. How facial hair worked with fur, and how these Crystal Ponies operated scissors with hooves and mouths, he had no idea. He was also fascinated with how these ponies’ bodies seemed to be genuinely made of crystal. He secretly examined them with his X-Ray and Microscopic Vision, and was amazed to find they were crystalline on a cellular level. He could only conclude it was a result of magic. After the workers finished combing his fur and mane, Rarity walked in and helped him put on his jacket and cape, which were now clean and tear-free.

“This material is simply divine. If I had more, I could make a fortune with how durable it is. It was a stimulating challenge to restore it. I don’t normally cheat using magic, but I had to do that at points.”

“Well, they were built to last through many battles. They had to be tough. Besides extreme force, usually the only thing that can damage them is magic.”

“I see.”

She looked him over with a critical eye.

“Oh don’t you look handsome. Come with me, I already gave Maud back her dress.”

Rarity led him into another room. After a few seconds, he was absolutely stunned when Maud Pie entered. Her dress and fur were now pristine and her mane had been treated so that it looked like it was perpetually wet. The result was breathtaking.

“You look amazing.”

“Thanks.”

Before they could leave, two more couples entered the room. Daring Do and Prince Blueblood, and Trixie and Flash Sentry, all freshly bathed. Daring’s outfit had been restored as well, but she wore a red ribbon in her greyscale rainbow mane instead of her hat. Trixie’s robes were restored but she wore her mane in a bun and had put her hat away. Blueblood had on a fresh suit. Flash still had his armor with his sword hanging from his waist, but he had removed his helmet and his mane was combed. Rarity was beaming as she explained.

“You probably didn’t notice because you fell asleep, but my work took a little bit longer than half an hour. That was because these four also asked me to restore their outfits.”

Daring Do added.

“It’s a nice day, and we’re all friends. We figured while we’re waiting for the party, we might as well have a triple date!”

Trixie added in.

“Don't worry. I already know what I'm doing for the magic show tonight.”

Clark considered it.

“Sounds like a plan. What do you think, Maud?”

“I don’t mind, but we should all skip lunch.”

“Why?”

“Because I know my sister. We’ll need the room for the party.”

“Very well. Let’s have some fun.”

Teary eyed, Rarity smiled and bid them farewell for now before leaving to rejoin her friends.

Flash led the way.

“I’ve worked here for about two years, so I know my way around.”

As they took in the sights, Blueblood addressed Clark.

“How are you liking the Crystal Empire so far?”

“It's nostalgic.”

“How so?”

“My main home, my castle if you wish to call it that, the Fortress of Solitude, is also made of crystal and hidden in the snow. The main difference is that it is technology based rather than magic based.”

They all stopped amazed, as they realized the reason why he was muttering about the Fortress of Solitude when he first woke up. He continued.

“Though I admit these crystals are much more aesthetically pleasing. I never imagined crystals could form all these shapes so seamlessly. The Fortress was designed for function, not form.”

“Interesting. So your kingdom is in the snow like this one.”

“Wrong, my kingdom is Planet Almerac itself. My fortress is on Planet Earth and is simply where I sleep most of the time.”

Clark could tell by the look on Blueblood’s face that he was filing this information into his head, likely in order to report to the princesses later. Clark decided to let him.

The group moved on and checked out the shops, occasionally greeting passing citizens, who were grateful for stopping Sombra. True to her word, Cadence arranged things so that everything was free today. While the others took crystal trinkets as souvenirs, and Maud took a magnetic geode, Clark acquired a sketchbook and pencil set, and noted all the writing was in English. After a few minutes of practice, he was sure he could handle the pencil well with his hooves and mouth.

“Check this out. This is my castle.”

He quickly drew a replica of the Fortress of Solitude’s exterior, and part of its interior. They admired it, especially Maud. Impressed, Blueblood spoke for them all.

“I see you have many talents.”

“It helps that I have a photographic memory and years of practice with art. Wait, I just had an idea. Maud, please hold up Boulder for a second.”

She did so, then after Clark scanned the rock with X-Ray and Microscopic Vision, he set to work. It took about a minute and a half, given he didn't want to risk damaging the paper, but when he was done, they were amazed to see a magnified, incredibly detailed cross section of Boulder. Maud’s eyes were wide.

“Is this really what Boulder looks like inside?”

“I can see through most objects and can see very tiny things.”

“If I had your eyes, I could write my thesis on rocks and graduate right now.”

Upon hearing that, Clark nervously backed up.

“You're in school?”

“I’m studying for my rocktorate degree. Look, I know you are much older than me, but I am not a child, so don't worry.”

He sighed and calmed down. Maud put a hoof to her chin and spoke again.

“We saw what you really look like and we saw Chrysalis imitate your past wives in pony form. Could you please show us what they really looked like?”

Clark wondered if she was jealous again, but took three sheets, labeled them, and drew the three women as he remembered them best. Lois in her business suit and glasses (resembling Amy Adams), Mary in her magical uniform (resembling Zooey Deschanel), and Maxima in her armor and wielding Inevitable (resembling Charlotte Sullivan). Maud and the others curiously looked them over. Despite them being different species, they could tell they were beautiful.

“I know you said you don't see me as a replacement, but what do I have in common with them? Please, tell us about them.”

Clark's eyes turned wistful.

“I suppose I always liked strong women. Of course, strength is a relative term. Like I said, I’m a Kryptonian and under the right conditions we are exceptionally powerful. Lois Lane was a human and a journalist in life. She didn't have any special powers, but she was brave and her will unbreakable. She was the daughter of a general, so she knew how to fight and take care of herself. She was my partner; she’d find the bad guys and figure out what they were up to, then I’d stop them. She would even distract the bad guys and carry me to safety when I was knocked out or injured. Sometimes, she'd take down a criminal on her own. I never had any children with her, but I will always remember our time together.”

Flash whistled.

“Even if she didn't have special abilities, she was special.”

“Thank you. Now Mary Batson and her brother Billy were both humans gifted by a wise wizard named Shazam.”

Trixie's eyes lit up at hearing about a wizard, but she pouted at the next thing he said.

“Before he died, he bequeathed the two his powers and knowledge, making them among the most powerful humans of all time, with physical strength rivaling mine and powerful magic, most of it lightning-based. They became heroes with great wisdom and kindness, and eventually, Billy wed my sister Mae, and Mary wed me. She would fight by my side, covering my weaknesses as I would hers. Mary may be gone, but Billy and Mae are still married today. By the way, my sister can do everything I can do, except she was never afflicted with anything like Doomsday.”

Trixie was beaming.

“They sound wonderful! I can do lightning magic too. It would be interesting to see what Billy can do and I’d like to thank him for making us ageless. Are they coming to the party?”

“Heh, I'm pretty sure Vartox will bring them. Last but not least, Maxima was Queen of Almerac. Her race has great strength and is psychic, specializing in telekinesis and telepathy, and she was one of the most powerful. At their core, Almeracians are warlike and only respect the strong, but they are also honorable. They don't judge others based on race. Anyone who is strong and useful is welcome to join them. Like I said before, I didn't love Maxima at first, until when I had lost my powers for a time, she was willing to stay by my side despite that, meaning she loved me for me. That's how I became a king.”

Daring Do cut in.

“Sorry, but this has been bugging me. What is that ring Vartox gave you?”

“Oh, this. In addition to being King of Almerac, I am also a member of a group called the Legion of Superheroes, a group dedicated to helping and protecting others. Each member gets one of these rings. They adjust to fit the wearer, protect the wearer with a force field, and allow the wearer to fly even if their own abilities are negated.”

He scratched his chin.

“Now that I think about it, if I hadn't dropped this thing, we would have easily escaped the Changelings. Oh well.”

Trixie and Blueblood could barely contain their excitement while Daring and Flash were simply amazed at hearing of the ring’s capabilities. Maud merely raised an eyebrow.

“Wait a second, why didn't I think of this before? Maud, would you like to try it?”

While the others went squee, Maud just shrugged and nodded.

“All right.”

Clark removed the ring with his mouth and tenderly placed it around her left hoof. He turned and glared at his snickering friends. He was well aware his action resembled putting on a wedding ring.

“Now, it takes a little practice, but all you have to do is imagine yourself flying and you will.”

He rose into the air, startling some onlookers.

“Can you join me?”

Maud closed her eyes, then opened them to find herself rising into the air to the cheers of their friends. She flew towards Clark and he hugged her. The two started dancing through the air together. As several onlookers stared in amazement, the other two couples decided to join them. Trixie and Blueblood used telekinesis to make themselves lighter, and then Flash and Daring carried them and rose to meet Clark and Maud. They wordlessly nodded to each other, then spent some time having fun in the air. Afterwards, they all landed and the couples all kissed briefly. Maud returned the ring to Clark.

“It was amazing, Clark, but I prefer to have all four hooves on the ground.”

“Understandable.”

He looked up at the sun and saw it was a little past three o’clock. To his amazement, he saw the sun move a little and then stop completely. With all that had been happening before, he had missed this detail until now. Back in his own universe, he could see the sun and stars move, but they moved continuously, simply too slow for human eyes to perceive.

“Does the sun normally do that?”

Trixie answered.

“What do you mean? It’s how the sun has always been.”

Clark thought it over and shrugged.

“Oh right, different world. Let’s talk about something else. Would it be appropriate to talk about our families?”

They all gave the go ahead. Trixie went first.

“My mother is a Unicorn named Igraine Lulamoon and my father is an Earth Pony named Gorlois.”

Clark raised an eyebrow. Those names sound familiar.

Daring Do interrupted.

“An Earth Pony? That explains why you're so strong.”

“Indeed. Pulling my wagon got me into shape, but my mixed heritage helped me pull it in the first place. Anyway, my mother has a special talent for destruction spells, so she works in demolition. Ironically, my father is a construction worker.”

The group, except Maud, chuckled.

“My oldest sibling is a sister named Morgan, a Unicorn. She is a pharmacist who sells magical and medical potions, having studied abroad with the Zebras. Next, I have an older sister named Elaine, an Earth Pony. She's an artist and a model. Finally, I have two younger brothers named Kay and Arthur, both Earth Ponies. They both aspire to join the Royal Guard when they come of age. And you know me, I'm the middle child who became a stage magician to stand out.”

Almost as soon as she was finished, Pinkie Pie was suddenly standing next to them, startling them all except for Maud. She zoomed up to Trixie and got in her face.

“Wow! Your family’s names are so weird! What's a Trixie? What's a Morgan? What's an Igraine?”

Annoyed, Trixie gave her retort.

“What's a Diane, Miss Pinkamena Diane Pie?”

Maud dragged Pinkie back a little.

“Pinkie, that was rude.”

“Sorry!”

Clark interrupted.

“What are you doing here?”

“Oh, I’m done setting up the party! It starts around 4:00 at the castle courtyard!”

“Good. If we walk, we’ll arrive right on time. By the way, Trixie. On my world, we have an ancient legend about a chosen King. The names of your family members match certain characters in the legend.”

She was beyond excited, while the others were amazed.

“This is awesome! Do I have a namesake in the legend as well?”

“Unfortunately, no. The third sister was named Morgause. Don’t worry, you’re a legend in your own way.”

Flattered, she batted a hoof at him.

“You’re just saying that.”

“I remember everything we’ve been through, including when I was Doomsday. Your bravery and the tricks you pulled, like fooling Doomsday with an illusion, are to be commended.”

Flash gave her a hug.

“Don’t sell yourself short.”

As they slowly walked to the castle, they decided it was Flash’s turn.

“My father is Stalwart Sentry, who was a Pegasus member of the Royal Guard until he retired due to age a few years ago. My mother is Audria Goodwing, a Pegasus musician. She’s tried to teach me her craft, but music was never my thing. I was too much of a warrior like my father before me. I don’t have any other relatives I know of, though I’m told my father’s ancestors were all warriors.”

Blueblood smiled.

“I remember Stalwart. When I was a colt, he once saved me and my family from bandits.

I suppose it is my turn. Despite what many ponies think, I’m not actually related to the Princesses. I’m a descendant of Princess Platinum, the last ruler of the Unicorns before the three tribes were united under Celestia and Luna’s rule.

As can be expected, my family is old money. And as much as I hate to admit it, being Platinum’s descendants made my family very arrogant over the generations. My father Pureblood and mother Gold Standard are both her descendants, and before you ask, they are distantly related enough that it’s not incest. Anyway, even though they are not very powerful or talented in magic, they believe just being her descendant makes them better than everypony except the Princesses, and they raised me to think the same. I was a total jerk for a long time, and I blew my chance with Rarity because of it.

That changed when Princess Celestia made me go on several diplomatic missions to other lands. I had to learn how to actually interact with others, take care of myself when living in less than ideal conditions, and occasionally fight for my life. It helped me finally grow up. Sure, I still enjoy the finer things in life, but I like to share them now. I don’t know if I would be able to change my parents’ views, but I’ll try, because as they are now, they wouldn't tolerate me seeing a Pegasus. Oh what the heck, I’m an adult; I don’t need their approval.”

Daring hugged him.

“You certainly have my approval. It’s my turn. I grew up in an orphanage, so I don’t know any of my relatives. AK Yearling is my birth name, chosen by the caretakers just because I was a year old at the time they decided to give me a name. I read an old fairy tale book about a treasure hunter named Daring Do and decided I wanted to be just like her. Nopony adopted me, so the caretakers raised me until I became old enough to leave. I read and trained enough to be an archeologist and the rest is history.”

Pinkie started bawling.

“Nopony adopted you? That’s so sad!”

“It’s okay. I got over it a long time ago.”

Pinkie immediately became cheerful again.

“Maud! It’s our turn!”

“Fine.”

Pinkie stood tall, while Maud rolled her eyes.

“The Pie family is a proud lineage of rock farmers! It is our tradition to excavate and shape rocks!”

“Our father is Igneous Rock Pie and our mother is Cloudy Quartz. They run our rock farm. They like tradition.”

“Our oldest sister is the ever awesome Limestone Pie! Sure, she’s a bit of a grumpy wumpy pants, but she looks out for us and she’ll inherit the rock farm one day! I also have a younger twin named Marble Pie! She doesn’t like to talk, but she’s our sister and we all love her so much! On top of all that, the records are smudged to we’re not really sure, but there is a big chance that Applejack and her family are our cousins! Isn’t that cool!?”

Clark gave Pinkie and Maud a hug at the same time.

“It’s very cool. Lastly, it’s my turn. Like I said before, my twin sister Mae and I were foundlings. Our adoptive parents were the humans Jonathan Kent and Martha Kent. They were wheat, vegetable, and dairy farmers who taught us their trade. Sadly, they died before Billy discovered his agelessness spell, but we’ve come to terms with that. Sometime when we were teenagers, we discovered a message our birth parents had left us before their deaths, which explained that we were Kryptonians. Their names were Jor-El and Lara-El, and our original names were Kal-El and Kara-El.

Like I said before, while I was married to Lois, I had an affair with Maxima, which gave me a son. I’ll admit I’m not perfect, as I didn’t even know I had a son until he was fourteen, and Conner started out hating my guts and trying to kill me, but he eventually came around. He’s a master swordsman, and he inherited both Maxima’s and my own abilities, giving him incredible potential. As Prince of Almerac, he gets very busy either running things or fighting battles.”

Blueblood whistled.

“I wonder if we could get along.”

“He likes brave people, and you proved that against Sombra. Conner is married to Cassandra Sandsmark. She is technically a princess as well, since she is a daughter of Zeus, the King of Olympian Gods.”

They were all shocked, and even Maud widened her eyes.

“She is very strong and inherited weather controlling magic from him, but she is very humble. When she is not ruling or fighting, she prefers to work in a museum with her mother Helena. Conner and Cassandra produced many descendants, so many that I’m not going to bother listing them because I would be talking all day.

Ariella, my daughter with Mary, is another story. She’s inherited both my powers and Mary’s, making her unbelievably powerful. I’m not ashamed to admit that her maximum strength far surpasses mine. So far, only Billy and Mae’s daughter Karen and Vartox can exceed her at her best.

When she was little, she was the sweetest kid I knew, but now, her only problem is that she is mind bogglingly lazy, and I’ve failed to correct this. She has no interest in helping us rule, and she won’t even get a real job. Even as a King and warrior, I do odd jobs from time to time, and I’m a teacher. She claims that she has no need for money because she doesn’t have to eat or drink at all, and the few times she chooses to, she always finds a way to get it for free. She doesn’t like being called a princess, so instead she is one of my unofficial knights, because the only thing she really enjoys is fighting. She is perfectly willing to help people and fight the forces of evil, which is the reason why we still accept her.

Roughly 400 years ago, she finally married a completely ordinary human named Hiroki, who even today, works at a grocery store. When we asked why she chose him, she said it was because even after she demonstrated her full power, he was the only one who never feared her.”

At their confused looks, he decided to elaborate.

“There was a time when we were at war with a race of invaders who called themselves the Dominators. They crossed a line by abducting several civilians, including Hiroki, and taking them back to their world as slaves. Ariella was enraged, and joined us in traveling to their world to rescue the prisoners. Ariella called out the Dominators’ leaders, and ordered them to release the prisoners and cease hostilities, or else she would do worse than this. She then flew into outer space, dived down, and struck the ground so hard that THE. PLANET. SPLIT. IN. HALF.”

Everypony’s jaws dropped, even Maud’s. Pinkie’s went all the way to the floor before she closed it.

“I’m not lying. Vartox quickly used his powers to repair it, but the Dominators got the message, released them, and the war immediately came to an end. Everyone of us was terrified by what happened, except Hiroki, who was enamored and said she was amazing. Naturally, she fell in love with him. Also, from that day on, many called her R’E’L, the Destroyer of Worlds. Those two don’t have any children and never adopted any, as Ariella thought raising children was too much work. How ironic that she doesn’t think of fighting as work.”

Flash spoke up.

“All of your family are amazing.”

The others nodded.

“Thank you. Like I said, Billy and Mae had a daughter named Karen, who is roughly as powerful as Ariella, maybe slightly stronger because she is older. Unlike her, Karen is a total workaholic. When she is not fighting, she is the boss of a multinational company that handles everything from communications, construction, and food distribution. She adopts children from time to time, because she ended up marrying Atlee, a girl with the power to control rock and dirt.”

Maud looked up at hearing that.

“Billy was a reporter for a while, and eventually agreed to be my court mage. Mae was also a reporter and became my general.”

Pinkie looked like she was about to literally explode with excitement.

“Your family is so cool! I can’t wait to meet them!”

Clark looked around and saw they were almost at the castle, so he decided to wrap it up.

“Just have patience, Pinkie. Next up, like I said, I consider Vartox my brother as well. He is from a world called Valeron. His people can do pretty much anything they set their mind to, though he is as far as I know the most powerful and talented at it. Like he said, he’s an Ace. Of course, there certain things he can’t do like bringing the dead back to life, time travel, or making people change their minds and not be evil anymore. Heh, it’s ironic. My father once told me and my sister that we would be an ideal for others to strive for. Vartox is the ideal I strive for. No matter how powerful I get, he can always show me a new level to reach. Maybe someday I’ll catch up to him, but he's helped stop me from getting complacent.

When he’s not fighting the forces of evil, he does whatever he feels like doing. Right now, he makes and sells art, both paintings and sculptures. He’s married to Diana, Princess of the Amazons.”

Pinkie suddenly shouted at the top of her lungs.

“Another princess, yay!”

Some bystanders looked at them in confusion, but Maud made a “go away” gesture at them and the group focused back on Clark.

“The Amazons are a tribe of ageless female warriors, who mostly shun males unless they want children. But Diana is different. Her mother, Queen Hippolyta, never wanted to have anything do do with males. Well, there was this one time when she had a relationship with my friend Ted, but I’m getting off topic. She made a statue of a child and asked the Olympian Gods to bring it to life. That’s how Diana came to be.”

Naturally, that got Maud’s attention.

“She is a statue? Fascinating.”

“She was a statue, but now she is flesh and blood. Granted, certain magic can force her to revert to clay, but we don’t encounter that often. She is incredibly strong and fast, and is a master of all forms of combat. Her best weapon is a magical lasso that is unbreakable and forces any being it touches to tell the truth, and nullifies illusions and mind control.”

Pinkie interrupted again.

“I bet Applejack would like that! She’s all about truth.”

“I’ll let Diana know if she comes. She rejected the Amazons’ isolationist policy and joined us in the fight against evil. She became Cassandra’s teacher and eventually married Vartox. It still amazes me because Vartox used to be a total pervert and womanizer, everything the Amazons stand against, before he turned his life around. They have one daughter, Donna. Donna inherited both her parents abilities, but admittedly, she’s not as powerful as Vartox because his race’s abilities come from the mind, one’s willpower and imagination. Sadly, Donna isn’t very creative, so it limits her potential. She’s still effective, and is a teacher when not fighting or helping Diana or Hippolyta rule. She married an ordinary guy named Terry, and they have many descendants. Oops, it looks like storytime is over, because we are here.”

The others looked up to find they were at the castle’s courtyard, with a large crowd and decorations. They could see the other Princesses, Shining Armor, and Pinkie’s friends waiting for them. Pinkie jumped into the air and stayed hanging.

“It’s time to get started!”

She zoomed off.

Trixie chuckled.

“I suppose it’s my cue as well.”

She briefly kissed Flash.

“See you in a few minutes.”

She walked away and out of sight. Prince Blueblood walked up to Princess Celestia and nodded to her. She wordlessly used a telepathy spell to glean his memories of the afternoon, part of her plan to learn more about Clark. When she was finished, she telepathically shared the information with the other Princesses and Pinkie’s friends, who gave looks of surprise before calming down. Having lived with so many telepaths, especially Maxima and Conner, Clark understood what was happening, and decided to allow it. Almost immediately, a portal opened, startling some of those present. Clark sighed and shook his head.

“That Vartox, always waiting til the last minute.”

Sure enough, Vartox stepped out of the portal in his familiar pony form. His broadsword Magnum Opus was strapped to his back. Some mares swooned over his handsome features.

“Hey, did you miss me!?”

Clark walked up and they bumped hooves.

“I didn’t, you doofus.”

“Haha, yeah right.”

Vartox turned to the portal.

“Come on, one at a time!”

Out stepped a Pegasus in armor, with olive fur and a long black mane. Her Cutie Mark was a lasso, a sword, and a peace sign. She wore a round shield and her sword Godkiller on her back, and she wore metal vambraces over her forearms. Finally, there was a golden lasso coiled and hooked on her side. Several in the crowd were struck by her beauty. Smiling, Clark gave her a hug.

“Hi, Diana.”

“Hi, Clark.”

She stood next to her husband. Next, out stepped an Earth Pony, tan with a long black mane. She wore a blue shirt with the House of El symbol, a red cape with the same symbol, and a red skirt. Her Cutie Mark, though mostly hidden by the skirt, was similar to Clark’s, the House of El symbol, looking like it was made of pure light. She wore her katana, Synthesis, on her left waist and her wakizashi, Antithesis, on her right waist. Again, several were struck by her beauty. Clark hugged her.

“Good to see you, Mae.”

“You too, Bro.”

Next came a Unicorn with peach fur and a black mane in a crew cut, wearing a red uniform with lightning symbols and a short white cape. His Cutie Mark was a lightning bolt next to a spellbook. A quick X-Ray Vision burst showed his sword Firebolt in a saddlebag enchanted like his own. Some mares started swooning at the sight of him. Clark bumped hooves with him.

“Billy.”

“Hey, Clark.”

Billy stood next to his wife. Next came a Pegasus with tan fur and a short black mane with red streaks, wearing a black T-shirt with the House of El symbol on it, with slits to let his wings through. His Cutie Mark was the katana Inexorable surrounded by six floating rocks in a circle. He wore Inexorable on his left waist and his mother’s katana Inevitable on his right waist. Again, he attracted some female attention. He and Clark hugged.

“How are you, Conner?”

“I’m managing, Dad.”

Next came an Alicorn with tan fur and a long blonde mane, wearing a red dress. Her Cutie Mark was a storm cloud. She wore a golden lasso on her waist and vambraces like her mentor Diana and her sword Tempest in an enchanted saddlebag. Several ponies were gawking over her beauty and muttering about a “new princess”, some even bowing to her. Clark hugged her.

“Cassandra.”

“Hi, Dad.”

She stood next to her husband. Next came a Unicorn with tan fur and a long black mane. Like her brother, she wore a black T-shirt with the House of El symbol on it. Her Cutie Mark was a human fist made of lightning. She wore her katana, Raikiri (Lightning Cutter), on her left waist and her wakizashi, Benkei, on her right waist. Again, she attracted attention due to her beauty. She and Clark hugged.

“Ariella.”

“Dad.”

The portal closed. Clark looked at where it was with disappointment.

“That’s everyone?”

Vartox slapped him on the back.

“Sorry, bro. Everyone else is really busy. You know how much of workaholics Karen, Donna, Hiroki, and all the others are. But we let everybody know what happened, and they are all happy for you. Irma, Rokk, and Garth are in charge of the Legion while we are away, and your finest students Bardock and Gine are Almerac’s Regents for the time being.”

Clark smiled at hearing that. Bardock and Gine were one of many Almeracian couples he had taken under his wing. He and Maxima had taught them everything they knew so that the planet would be in good hands in case something had happened to the entire royal family. They had never let him down, and he had faith in them.

“Wait a second, why are all you guys walking and balanced perfectly? It took me a while to get used to this body.”

“Simple, I turned us all into ponies earlier so we could practice. But enough about that. Come on, this party is for you! Everybody mingle!”

With Vartox’s words, the bubble broke and the crowd approached the visitors. Some were disappointed to learn the visitors were already married. Pinkie started the celebrations with multiple party cannons as Clark was honored for earning his Cutie Mark. Trixie unleashed a spectacular magic show, with a combination of sleight of hand and real magic. Clark enjoyed it immensely, glad to feel like a child again.

Thanks to learning about her from the telepathy, Applejack hung out with Diana, in awe of her magic lasso’s properties. Diana graciously allowed her to try it out. Of course, Applejack was a natural with the lasso, and even playfully lassoed some ponies to make them blurt out embarrassing secrets, which Rainbow Dash found hilarious, until she was ensnared as well. Cassandra also let her try her own lasso, but warned her not to lasso anypony because her lasso electrocutes those it ensnares.

Billy met with Twilight Sparkle, Trixie, and everypony else who was interested in magic.

“To tell the truth, I started out only knowing one spell. SHAZAM!”

They were startled when lightning struck on the clear sky and hit him. In a puff of smoke, his uniform was gone, and all he was wearing was his saddlebag holding his sword. He was now in his mortal form.

“This magic lightning is the source of my powers. It enables me to transform myself, but that is not all it can do. SHAZAM!”

The lightning struck again, but to everypony’s amazement, the lightning stopped in midair and collected into a ball that floated in front of him.

“When you have a talent, it is important that you master every aspect of it. You’re only limited by your imagination. Take this ball of lightning. I could use it like a grenade, or…”

He touched it and was transformed back into his empowered form. He then demonstrated that he had long ago learned how to call upon the lightning without saying the magic words; the words just made it easier. Everypony, especially Twilight, was eager to learn more. He later taught them the ageless transference spell.

Ariella had fun sparring with Daring Do, Flash Sentry, Rainbow Dash, and anypony else who was up for it. By limiting her speed, it was a contest of pure skill.

Mae decided to boost the self esteem of the Crystal Ponies by giving them practical self defense tips.

To Prince Blueblood’s delight, Conner indeed respected him, having learned of everything that had happened with King Sombra from Vartox. The two had a discussion about what it meant to be a prince.

Clark decided to play with the Crystal Empire’s children and the children of Miss Cheerilee’s class, with Maud and Pinkie joining him. He made a special bond with Lily Longsocks, a filly with a hedgehog Cutie Mark. She was exceptionally strong, but shy and fearful of her strength hurting others. Seeing Clark in action against King Sombra stirred hope in her, and he started to give her tips on how to control her strength.

Surprisingly, Vartox had a talk with Fluttershy and Spike, as he encouraged them to speak up more and get noticed. He also told them all individuals are important. Fluttershy thanked him for his kind words but said fame didn't interest her. Spike got a huge boost to his self esteem when several Crystal Ponies once again praised him as Great and Honorable Spike the Brave and Glorious for saving everypony from the final falling rock.

Cassandra had a talk with the other Princesses and Shining Armor, as they were intrigued by her story. She did her best to teach them about the Olympian Gods.

Through it all, Rarity went from person to person, taking notes on their outfits and taking inspiration on new fashions to come.

Time flew, and when it was roughly 7:00 PM, Celestia and Luna amazed Clark and his family, plus everypony else because seeing it never gets old, by moving the sun down and moving the moon up. Day had turned to night.

After about half an hour, Vartox gathered his family and addressed the crowd.

“I’m sorry, but we have things to do, so we must leave soon. Clark, you’ve had your fun, so do you want to go home now?”

Taken aback, Clark gathered himself.

“Whoa, answer this first. What would happen to Maud if she comes with us?”

“She would turn into a human. That’s the nature of these worlds.”

“Then my answer depends on her answer. Maud, would you like to come with us? I’ll teach you everything about how our world works.”

As several ponies, especially Rarity and Pinkie squealed, Maud weighed her options. Though she was curious about what exotic rocks she could see, she made up her mind.

“I’m sorry, but my place is here. I’m still in college and I’m not ready to go to another world. Maybe you can come back for me after I graduate.”

“I figured you would say that. Then there is something I have to do. Vartox, please change us back to our original forms.”

“Okay?”

He waved his arm, and he and the family were returned to their original forms. Conner and Ariella were wearing blue jeans and boots to go with their T-shirts. Cassandra wore boots with her red dress.

“Diana, please give me the lasso. I need you all to know that I am 100% serious.”

“Very well.”

She handed him the lasso, and he held it in his hands, feeling its effects.

“I choose to stay in this world. On this day, I abdicate the Throne of Almerac. I also resign from active duty in The Legion of Superheroes. If there is ever a crisis that would require my help, you can call on me and I will come.”

He attempted to remove his Legion Ring, but Vartox held up his hand in the “Stop” motion.

“Keep that. In the event you lose your powers, it could save your life.”

“Oh. You’re right.”

Conner perked up.

“Wait. This means-”

Clark cut him off.

“I know what you are thinking. Have you forgotten the laws of our people? Everything of Almerac is earned by the worthy. If you want to rule Almerac, you’ll have to beat me in combat. Meet me outside this city. I challenge you to a One Point Match.”

Shocked, Conner stepped back.

“But, I’ve never been able to beat you at that.”

“If you are giving up already, you have already lost. Relax, I won’t use any of Doomslayer’s power. If you lose, then just hold a tournament for the position. You’ll be sure to win since none of these guys are interested in the position, so they’re not going to compete.”

Confused, Twilight spoke for the ponies.

“What is a One Point Match?”

Ariella smirked.

“The first guy who hits the other guy wins.”

Personally, many of the ponies thought that was barbaric, barring a few exceptions like Rainbow Dash. Shining Armor spoke his mind.

“Is this really necessary?”

Ariella waved her hand.

“Sorry, but it is our way. Do not worry. They’re experts and we’ve all literally done this hundreds of times before. We also can’t die from being impaled. They’ll be safe.”

Clark returned the lasso, then rose into the air.

“Follow me!”

He flew off. He went past the border barrier and into the snowing surroundings. After a while, he touched down in a flat area and waited. His family soon followed, then Vartox teleported the entire population of the Crystal Empire there to watch, using a barrier to shield them from the cold.

Clark addressed Cassandra.

“Could you please do the honor of clearing up the sky?”

“Sure thing.”

She raised a hand and concentrated. The ponies were amazed when the storm clouds moved away, creating a clear night with the moon and stars visible.

“It will stay that way until we leave.”

Vartox stepped forward and drew a circle in the ground with telekinesis, 100 meters in diameter.

“I’ll be the referee. The first guy to hit the other guy in the head or torso wins. Stay inside the circle, and no heat vision, super breath, or telekinesis allowed.”

Diana questioned him.

“You’re allowing them to use the Solar Pulse?”

“Have to keep it interesting.”

Clark stepped into the circle and drew Dawnbreak.

“Are you ready?”

Conner handed Inevitable to Cassandra, then stepped into the circle and drew Inexorable.

“Ready.”

All the spectators trembled with anticipation. Vartox raised his arm, then brought it down.

“Begin!”

Father and son vanished and there was a shockwave as they reappeared, their swords colliding. Vartox protected them all from the shockwaves, as the two clashed swords, fists, and feet, using the Solar Pulse at times to enhance their speed and strength.

Rainbow Dash complained.

“This is nuts! I can’t even see what they are doing!”

Vartox walked up.

“Don’t worry, I’ll give you an instant replay.”

She was confused as he focused on the fight.

After a while, the two reappeared, not even winded. Clark spoke to his son.

“This is taking way too long. How about we end it with one final blow?”

He sheathed Dawnbreak and went into Iaido stance. Conner nodded and did the same with Inexorable. They powered up with Solar Pulses, ready to give it their all. One instant, they disappeared, the next, they were past each other. Clark was holding Dawnbreak out like he had just swung it, and Conner did the same with Inexorable, but he was holding his sheath in reverse grip with his other hand. Clark groaned and held his chest in pain.

“Ha. I didn’t see that coming. Looks like you win, Conner.”

As the ponies were confused, Vartox materialized a screen that replayed the duel at normal speed. In the final part, both combatants drew their swords and swung them, but as they clashed, Conner suddenly swung his sheath with his left hand and struck Clark in the chest with it. Some started cheering.

Suddenly aware of the implications of what just happened, Conner fell to his knees with shock. Clark recovered and approached him.

“Rise. A champion does not belong on his knees.”

Conner stood up, then he and the others were shocked when Clark detached his cape, then draped it around Conner’s shoulders and attached the clasps to his shirt’s collar.

“This cape was part of the last present my birth parents could provide. Wear it well. I knew one day you would surpass me, as you have the abilities of both your mother and me, and the day we first met, you were far more powerful than I was at that age. Always use your gifts wisely. You are Superman now, my King.”

Clark abruptly dropped to his knees, soon followed by everyone else, even the Princesses.

Conner steeled himself, letting it sink in that he had finally achieved his dream.

“Rise, all of you.”

They did. Conner took Inevitable from Cassandra and offered it to Clark.

“Here, keep Mom’s sword. You can use it, or…”

He glanced over to Maud. Clark got the idea and took Inevitable, putting it inside his backpack. He took off his wedding ring.

“Here, put it in your mother’s memorial.”

Touched, Conner took the ring and put it in his pocket.

"I suppose I will have to take over as the teacher of your students, both on Almerac and in the Legion."

"You practically know everything I know and you can do even more. You'll do fine."

Conner briefly shook hands with him, then turned to the others.

“Now, do any of you challenge my reign!?”

Ariella stepped forward and drew Raikiri, then stabbed it into the ground.

“Bro, I’m not challenging you. We all know that right now, we are roughly equal, but if I do this… SHAZAM!”

Lightning struck her, and her outfit was replaced by a red uniform with lightning symbols and a white cape. Like always, Clark was affected, as it made her the spitting image of her mother, Mary.

“You wouldn’t stand a chance. But the reason why I never challenged Dad or your Mom was because we all know leadership isn’t my thing, and ruling a planet is just too much work.”

She kneeled, holding Raikiri’s hilt in her hands.

“Instead, I will be your knight, just like I was Dad’s.”

Conner hugged her.

“I accept.”

He turned to his wife.

“Cassandra, you have been my wife for over 900 years. Will you be my Queen as well?”

She smiled and walked up to him.

“You’re so silly. Of course I will.”

The audience cheered as they kissed. As everyone congratulated them, he slowly frowned and looked down.

“What’s the matter, Honey?”

“This moment would have been perfect, if Mom were here to see it.”

To everyone’s surprise, Applejack was the one to comfort him.

“Ah know a thing er two about missing folks. Here’s somethin’ to remind us they’re always here in our hearts.”

First, Applejack began to sing. Then Apple Bloom joined her, gradually followed by everyone else there.

Conner smiled and hugged her.

“Thank you. That did cheer me up.”

Vartox abruptly teleported everyone back to the Crystal Empire. Mae held out her fist, the one with the Legion Ring.

"Brother, we probably won't see each other again for a while, so how about we do this, for old times sake?"

Smiling, the seven heroes stood in a circle and bumped their fists with the Legion Rings together. They cried out at once.

"Long live the Legion!"

Vartox then opened a portal.

“Like I said, we have to go. Clark, if you really want to stay here…”

He waved a hand and Clark became a pony again. His family said their goodbyes and exited through the portal. When Vartox was left, he paused.

“Listen, I have some free time next week. I’ll come back and I will teach you how to change forms at will, and how to open portals between our worlds.”

“Looking forward to it.”

Before he could leave, Pinkie stopped him.

“When you come back, will you show me your world?”

“Sure.”

“Pinkie Promise?”

“Fine. Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.”

He even made the motions.

“Yay! But how did you know?”

“I read your mind, which I don’t think I want to do again. See you in a week!”

He stepped through the portal and it disappeared. Clark sighed and looked around.

“A new life, with new possibilities.”

Princess Celestia walked up to him.

“Indeed. Clark, would you like to become a Royal Guard? It will solve your money problems.”

He thought about it, then nodded his head.

“It would be an honor.”

“Splendid. Right now, Princess Twilight Sparkle does not have any guards, so will you protect her?”

As Twilight sputtered and her friends teased her about her lack of security, Clark nodded.

“All right.”

Luna stepped forward.

“An excellent idea, Sister! Allow me to do the honors!”

She zapped him, and he was suddenly wearing Royal Guard armor over his jacket, colored purple like Twilight’s fur. Rarity swooned as he examined his new duds.

“This looks nice. I suppose if I am staying here, I should change my name to fit your naming style.”

He looked at his Cutie Mark and remembered something Vartox had said to him.

“How about, Paragon Flame?”

Celestia smiled.

“It suits you.”

She turned to the others.

“We have been away from Canterlot for far too long. It is time to return.”

Celestia and Luna said their goodbyes and teleported away.

Daring Do suddenly slapped the ground in frustration.

“Darn it, I forgot to ask them if they could take Ahuizotl and Caballeron to Canterlot for trial.”

Blueblood rubbed her back.

“It’s okay. We have a train, and with Paragon Flame on our side, there is no way they can escape.”

Ahuizotl and Caballeron were taken out of the dungeon, still tied up, and loaded onto the train, which had been repaired by Vartox’s powers earlier. As tourists and Cheerilee’s class boarded the train, eager to return home, Trixie and Flash had a moment.

“Flash, I suppose I’ll see you later.”

Fortunately, Princess Cadence stepped in.

“Flash Sentry, you have served us well. I’m granting you a two month vacation.”

Taken aback, he smiled.

“Thank you, Princess.”

He quickly gathered his belongings and joined Trixie on the train. They put her wagon in an empty compartment. Daring Do, Prince Blueblood, and his servants entered, putting his palanquin full of gifts in an empty compartment. His servants boarded the compartment holding the two criminals to guard them, while Paragon Flame assured them that if they somehow escaped, he would know and catch them.

Twilight Sparkle, her friends, her new guard, and Maud entered the compartment where Trixie, Flash, Daring, and Blueblood were. The train took off, starting its night long journey to Canterlot and then Ponyville. Maud addressed her coltfriend.

“You know, I liked calling you Clark. I will have to get used to calling you Paragon Flame.”

“Don’t worry, life is about change.”

Suddenly, Cheerilee’s class entered their compartment. Scootaloo spoke for them.

“You are so cool! Could you please tell us your story?”

He smiled.

“Very well, but when it becomes 10:00, you are all going to sleep.”

“Aww!”

As everypony gathered around, he began his tale.

“It began long ago, on a distant world called Krypton. There were two scientists, Jor-El and his wife Lara-El…”