//------------------------------// // Chapter 16: The Demon's Fall // Story: The Mystics History // by JusSonic //------------------------------// [Enter Three Kingdoms Theme Song] Twilight Sparkle and her friends screamed wildly as they entered into the Book of Ages. As they landed on the ground, they came across the Ancient Land of Ma. They all entered it as they're ready to face it. They witnessed the land was in turmoil as Imperial Court argued with each other while civil war broke out between peasants, rebels, imperials, warriors, nobles, warlords, ministers and even the Emperor. Stallion: Through the storm, Through the darkness, The once peaceful kingdom Lost its Love and Harmony Turn into grief despair Virtue Dragon, Blade Dragoon and Warpath Temper prayed and bowed down before the altar as they make a vow of sworn brotherhood. They joined up with various brave and compassion warriors in journeying across the land to help troubled ponies. Azure Phoenix stood on the Imperial Palace's entrance as he held his sword up high proudly as his Imperial Phoenix Army. His army cheered wildly and proudly. They all went from territory to territory for conquest and control of the land. Claw Tiger smiled proudly as he led his Tiger Warriors to deal with rebels. As he was dying, Claw Tiger passed the sword to his eldest son, Brave Tiger. Brave Tiger led his warriors in reclaiming Wuhu River for his clan. As he died, he passed to Courage Tiger as the new Leader of Kingdom. Stallion: The destiny is now yours To change its course and fate. Heaven and Earth chose you to fulfill its purpose Virtue Dragon helped ponies as well as showing kindness and compassion. His warriors of Western Dragon Kingdom fought bravely and determinedly to defend the innocent. Stallion: A hero with benevolent heart Desires a land of virtue. Azure Phoenix recruited more of warriors and strategists under his banner. He led the Imperial Phoenix Kingdom army across the land for conquest and world domination of empire. Stallion: A hero with great ambition Desired a land of power and talents Courage Tiger was in great doubt and pain about his past. Nevertheless, he stood proudly on Water Tiger military naval ship, along with others. He was leading them to defend his home. Stallion: A hero with courageous fangs Desired a land of unity. Three kingdoms marched into the battlefield as they all charged into it as they began battled with each other fiercely and firmly. Stallion: Pray its Terror Ends, Hope the Peace Returns Twilight Sparkle and her friends witnessed the holographic form of history records about the heroes and villains from Qin Dynasty Era into the Three Kingdoms Era. They were amazed and shocked, but sometimes angered and upset while others - pained and despair. Stallion & Chorus: Oh, Great Warriors of the Heaven Save us from the Demon God's Hell May you guide us to Paradise Land Where no blood shall ever shed again Azure Phoenix and Han Zero stood before Royal Sisters. Both sides held each other hooves for the moment before the princesses disappeared from sights, including Han Zero. Azure Phoenix slowly turned and faced his two biggest rivals - Virtue Dragon and Courage Tiger. Three Rulers held anc crossed each other's their swords up proudly. It created the magical aura forms of Greenish Dragon, Bluish Phoenix and Crimson Tiger stood up and roared wildly as the mightiest warriors in Land of Ma! Stallion & Chorus: Whenever we're in grave danger, You braved to bring us home Your deeds will not be Forgotten Your Tale becomes Legend My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic - Mystic History Written by JusSonic and Power Master -------------------------------------------- Chapter 16: The Demon's Fall After paying their respect to the fallen warrior - Rhino Armor, Azure Phoenix and Twilight immediately left and regrouped with the Imperial Phoenix Army. All of them headed and returned to Xuchang Province, along with both Snaptrap and Axen. During their travelling, Azure Phoenix shown his anger and ruthless yet determined looks like he was thinking and planning a way to accomplish his goal and domination. This makes Twilight uneasy and concern, not for herself but for both Azure Phoenix and her friends. She also knew that her friendship won't be enough to make the Leader of Imperial Phoenix to understand or even changed his ways. "Rhino Armor was dead. After surviving the blazing Battle of Broken Horn's Castle, Azure Phoenix set out in search of a path forward." Narrator narrated, "A path of ambition. A path that would quickly lead him to domination of the land. A path that some would deride as cruel and ruthless. Azure Phoenix was determined to walk this path, alone if necessary. He returned to Xuchang Province, and together with his new allies - Snaptrap and Axen, he began plotting his next move." Months later, Azure Phoenix gathered both officers and advisor at his office. They all were discussing about what and how they should do and deal with Noble Guild and Greed Broke. Twilight and her friends were among them as they're still "Noble Guild and his massive army in Northern Guild... The self-proclaimed Emperor Greed Broke... His advisors determined that Azure Phoenix must solidify his current position before taking these two mighty foes." Suddenly, Dragonspear arrived at the office. He looked exhausted yet badly injured and wounded. He approached and bowed before Azure Phoenix. He then make a report, which shocked and angered Twilight and her friends. "Five weeks later, a young warrior from Virtue Dragon's army - Dragonspear came in search of a help. His lord has been attacked by none other than Devil Destroyer..." -------------------------------------------- "WHAT?!" Twilight and her friends asked in shock yet anger. Azure Phoenix and his officers and ministers remained calm and firm as they were all looking at the injured Dragonspear bowed before them. He explained of what has happen at Xu Province. Dragonspear grunted painfully, "It's true. Devil Destroyer has launched massive attacks on our home! We don't know why he did it. But we assume that someone has set us up for him to come and finish us off." He bowed down to the ground, "Please, I beg of you. Help us now. My lord won't hold his stand much longer!" "That guy's really ticked me off!" Rainbow exclaimed in anger, "I really wanna kick his flank now!" "Me too! He's gone too far for this! I've had enough of it!" Applejack exclaimed firmly. Twilight turned and looked at Azure Phoenix, "Lord Azure, please help them. I know you and Lord Virtue Dragon don't see eye-to-eye on protecting and saving the kingdom, but right now, he needs help. Because if you don't help him, Devil Destroyer is going to destroy anything and anyone that stands in his way. And trust me, he's coming for you." Her friends chatted and agreed with Twilight's points. Dragonspear bowed his head to the ground as he pleaded and begged for help. Most of Imperial Phoenix Officers remain silent yet calm and firm. Azure Phoenix hummed thoughtfully as he gave some thoughts about the situation. While he was thinking about it, he gave a sly smirk of amusement. Azure Phoenix stood up and spoke up, "We march to Xu Province! Devil Destroyer must be defeated!" Imperial Phoenix Officers and Ministers stood up at once as they all bowed humbly and shouted 'Lord'. Dragonspear, Mane Six and their friends sighed in relief and happy. They finally get help to rescue Virtue Dragon and his home from Devil Destroyer. Azure Phoenix smirked amusingly, "Good.... Just as we planned..." Twilight noticed Azure Phoenix's looks and smile as she became nervous and worried of what her mentor's past self is after. She can't help but felt that he wanted it to happen. Question is why and what is he after? -------------------------------------------- The Imperial Phoenix Army numbered to 30,000 soldiers. Azure Phoenix led his army to march and attacked Devil Destroyer and his army. Unable to fight the enemies back and no reinforcement has come to rescue them, they were forced to escape and retreat to Flooding Fortress. "Azure Phoenix agreed to take Virtue's Requests, and mobilized his troops to reclaim Xu. Thus, Devil Destroyer was forced to withdraw his army back to his final fortress - Flooding Fortress due to most of his garrisons and territories have been taken from within his ranks." Allied with Virtue Dragon, both his forces and Imperial Phoenix Army marched to the Flooding Fortress, where Devil Destroyer and his forces make their last stand. "Virtue Dragon was extremely grateful of Azure Phoenix's generosity, and together they set out for Flooding Fortress. Azure Phoenix... Virtue Dragon... Devil Destroyer... Among the fields of Xu Province, three heroes of ages would soon be engaged in the heat of battle..." -------------------------------------------- Azure Phoenix and his Imperial Phoenix Army stood before the fortress's walls. Joining their lord were Anger, Snaptrap, Schemetrick, Axen, Bullhound, Blazefist, Laxtinct, Virtue Dragon, Blade Dragoon, Warpath Temper, Dragonspear and even Mane Six. Devil Destroyer and his loyal officers were standing on top of the walls. "Devil Destroyer, your time is up," Azure Phoenix said firmly and calmly. Devil Destroyer huffed in anger, "I don't know how you managed to take my territory, without me noticing! But let me tell you something - I will never back down from the fight." "Always a fool till the end. Never learn his lessons. So, you wish to fight and die like a warrior?" "No, I wish to kill you with my bare hooves! And trust me on this, Phoenix! I will defeat you! I will take my revenge! I will kill you all! That's the promise." Azure Phoenix scoffed, "Don't make promises you can't keep. Because you might fail again." Devil Destroyer screamed in anger, "SHUT UP! Kill them all!" Devil Destroyer's archers gave a loud battle cry as they all fired their arrows on Azure Phoenix. Luckily, Blazefist and Laxtinct came and spun their spear and axe in blocking and deflecting the arrows from hitting their lord. "You will regret that. ATTACK," Azure Phoenix ordered in anger. Imperial Phoenix Army gave a loud battle cry as they all charged and attacked the Flooding Fortress. Devil Destroyer's Forces put up the resistance against the invaders by firing the rain of arrows and stones on the enemies. Joining him are both Bladestrike and Gigaton as three of them fought and repelled the invaders off from the walls. The battle has gone for five days. Imperial Phoenix Army were unable to breach and take over the Flooding Fortress. Though Devil Destroyer's forces were able to overcome and repel the invaders, they lost some soldiers to get both injured and killed during the battle. -------------------------------------------- Two weeks later... Inside the office, Devil Destroyer and his officials have important discussion of repelling and defeating Imperial Phoenix Army. However, the Demon Warrior was drinking his wine a lot as he has no interests in listening to his war council or even cared about the strategies. "Damn it, Lord Devil! Will you listen to me for once?!" Vile asked in anger, "Honestly, it wouldn't kill you to follow a simple instruction! If you had, we wouldn't be in this dire situation!" Gigaton grabbed and held Vile's neck, "If I were you, Vile; I'd watch my tongue and respect my lord." Vile coughed heavily, "D-Damn you, Gigaton! Let go of me!" "Gigaton, release him!" Bladestrike ordered in anger. Gigaton grunted in anger before dropping Vile to the ground. He sighed, "But I must agree with Vile. Have we listened to his advice and strategies from the start, Phoenix's territories would have been ours. We could have taken our revenge on those filthy Cruez's trusted lieutenants!" Devil Destroyer groaned in anger, "And become pathetic coward?! Never! I'm a Demon Warrior. I don't rely on strategies to win my fight!" Vile groaned while gave facepalm, "Of all the idiots! My lord! Think reasonable! Planning and using strategies does not make you coward. It makes you a smart stallion for outsmarting your enemies and proving the Land that you are the best!" "Best comes from strength, not strategies!" Devil Destroyer shouted in anger. Vile sighed, "Please, at least, listen to my reason. Our soldiers won't hold the line much longer. If we were to survive for another attack. We need reinforcement. And the only warlord we can get is him." "Emperor Greed?" Butterfly Dancer asked in concern. She sighed, "Would he help us? After all, he was labelled as traitor to the Qin Dynasty. If we asked for a help from him, we would be labelled as traitors as well." "We were traitors the moment Lord Azure has taken control of both Emperor and Dynasty!" Vile pointed his concern. He sighed, "Either way, that's the only chance we have. Unless you agree to my first plan, lure the enemies and strike them down from within!" "Cowards' bloody tactic..." Devil Destroyer remarked dryly before spitted mucus out, "Why should I trust that coward?" "Because he's the only warlord we could rely on," Vile said firmly, "But one problem. We need someone to be their hostage, in order to complete our alliance." "I'll do it!" Skycrush said firmly, "I'll be their hostage." "Absolutely not! I will not have my daughter to be his filth's hostage!" Devil Destroyer exclaimed in anger, "Being warrior I can live with but being a slave to those greedy monsters?! I refused!" "What choice do we have now?" Vile asked in concern, "Charging is not an option." "And defending our fortress won't last much longer," Bladestrike added in uneasiness. Gigaton scoffed, "Come on. At least, we die like a true warrior! I'd rather die to fight than surrender my pride to worthless coward!" "I don't want you go away, Skycrush. You're my precious," Butterfly Dancer said in concern. Skycrush sighed, "Mother, Father, there is no choice. We need help now." Devil Destroyer groaned in anger, "Very well. Be sure you're safe from danger, Skycrush! Don't fail me, my daughter." Skycrush nodded firmly, "Yes, father! I will not fail you and Mother." Butterfly Dancer approached and gave Skycrush a hug while cryingtearfully, "Be safe..." "I will." Skycrush said in comfort and calm. -------------------------------------------- Imperial Phoenix Army have stationed their positions on the Flooding Fortress's Castle Walls as they were keeping their enemies from coming out or coming in, and also when they're at full strength, they will continue the siege on the castle's walls. Luckily, Skycrush made her another way out by going through the underground and exited the path. She galloped and headed towards to Greed Broke's Palace. Unknown to her, Laxtinct and Blazefist spotted her from the hill. They both looked at each other as they nodded in agreement. They turned and headed back to the camp. -------------------------------------------- "Commence the War Council!" Azure Phoenix ordered firmly. Both his officers and allies were sitting down on their seats while looking at the table, which has the map of Flooding Fortress Battlefield. Mane Six and their friends were among them. He continued, "State your report." Blazefist bowed humbly, "I have bad news, my lord. Master Ratio was right. Skycrush is getting some help from Greed Broke." Laxtinct nodded, "Yeah. No doubt, she'd be back with reinforcement." "And I've brought some news about enemies' positions," Anger reported as he looked at the map, which has the red chess pieces inside holding and guarding the fortress while the blue ones were outside. He continued, "No changes at all. They're still holding inside." Bullhound nodded, "And don't forget, their food are running out after almost two weeks!" "Our objective is very simple, my lord. Defeat and capture Devil Destroyer," Snaptrap explained calmly and firmly, "But if you were to get killed, our forces will be scattered." Azure Phoenix hummed in thoughts, "State your strategies." "I have one," Snaptrap said confidently as he looked at the map. He pointed at the river. He smirked, "Build the dam. Once it's full, we will launch the flood on the fortress. It will flooded it and its gates. It will be easy for our forces to march in and attack them." "Not only that. It will destroy both their morale and supplies," Schemetrick said amusingly, "Ingenious..." Anger scoffed, "I'll be the guard dog. I'll keep the dam safe until it's full." "What should we do with enemy reinforcement?" Axen asked in concern, "We must deal with them." "Would you volunteer for it, Axen? It's time to prove your worth," Azure Phoenix said firmly and calmly, "Blazefist and Laxtinct will assist you to the battlefield." Axen, Blazefist and Laxtinct bowed and nodded, "LORD!" "I heard there were some warriors are questioning Devil Destroyer's methods and wish to desert him," Blade Dragoon added in, "I have hope that Bladestrike is one of them." Dragonspear hummed, "We could ask them to defect to our sides. If that can be achieved, the officers and soldiers will turn and fight against their leader." "How about we just charge and attack the gate?! Simple enough," Warpath said confidently. Virtue Dragon sighed, "Warpath, that plan of yours is going to get us killed." "No... A perfect distraction for our plans to complete..." Azure Phoenix said confidently, "Well thought, Warpath." Warpath was confuse and surprise, "Uh... Your welcome?" Azure Phoenix turned and looked at Twilight and her friends, "Tell me... Will Devil Destroyer be defeated?" Twilight sighed and nodded, "Yes. Yes, he will be." "Good. Twilight, I want you and your friends to assist in the battlefield. However, all of you have different assignment. And I expect you all to follow it," Azure Phoenix said firmly, "Especially you, Virtue. I hope you and your brothers can help me accomplish our goal." Twilight and her friends looked at each other. As much as they hated to work with him, they needed to fight and defeat Devil Destroyer. They all nodded firmly. "Good. Prepare for the war!" Azure Phoenix exclaimed firmly. Everyone stood up and bowed humbly before Azure Phoenix, "LORD!" Twilight hummed in concern, "Just hope everything go well..." -------------------------------------------- On the next day, Azure Phoenix has split his forces for different assignments to perform. Axen, Blazefist and Laxtinct are in-charge of blocking the enemy reinforcement, assisted by Starlight, Rainbow and Pinkie. Anger assisted Snaptrap and Schemetrick for setting the flood attack, helped by Ben, Sunset, Fluttershy and Twilight. Virtue Dragon and his forces, assisted by Azure Phoenix, Applejack, Rarity, Spike, Nyx and Phobos. With the preparation for battle is set, the Imperial Phoenix Army have set out and engaged their assignments and enemies at once. The main forces of Imperial Phoenix Army and Virtue Dragon's charged and laid their siege on the fortress, keeping Devil Destroyer's forces occupied from finding out of their plans. Anger's Team were at the riverbank, which surrounded Flooding Fortress. Some were throwing and putting more rocks on the riverbank like a dam holding the overflowing water back. Others were digging a new yet deep and large path for the river to flow right to the fortress. They've been working on Flood Attack for a week. "The flood attack is almost ready to attack." Anger said in satisfaction. Snaptrap smirked while speaking, "Excellent, Anger." "Uh, excuse me, but is this a good idea?" Sunset ask Snaptrap with an arch of an eyebrow. "Yeah, I mean, the whole flood idea may ended up being bad." Ben remarks in agreement. Schemetrick sighed, "We must do what is necessary to achieve our victory especially defeating Devil Destroyer." "But it feels... Wrong especially some villagers and animals were there." Fluttershy said meekly. She doesn't feel right about killing innocents that has nothing to do with this battle. "Right, even ponies like them got parties to go to." Twilight said in agreement and worry. Schemetrick comments, "It's understandable. But rest assure. I already have them evacuated before we begin building the flood attack." "Well, at least one pony thought ahead of all of this." Ben comments to the girls with a sigh of relief. At least they're relieved, knowing that Schemetrick chose to get the villagers out of the way before trying this stunt. "Tell me about it. I an uneasy with Azure's tactics as it is." Twilight shivers a bit while shaking her head. "It's almost done. Should we begin?" Anger ask the others anxiously. Snaptrap smirked as he spoke,. "You may begin, General Anger." Anger nodded then gives out the command, "Launch the Flood Attack!" A Imperial Phoenix Soldier answers in determination, "Understood! Launch the attack now!" The Imperial Phoenix Soldier blow the war horn, signalling the soldiers to launch the flood attack. Some soldiers began hammering down on the rocks while others dug dirt out for the water. As the leak of water popped out, the soldiers quickly climbed out from the river's boundary. The overflowing water broke through the barricade and rushed very hard and fast as it was heading straight to the fortress. Spotted the water rushing towards the fortress, Azure Phoenix ordered his main forces to withdraw and abandon the siege. As they did, the rushing water has broken through both gates and flooded the whole fortress. Devil Destroyer's Force screamed in fear and calling for help. Anger's Unit cheered wildly and happily upon looking at the battlefield. "Looks like the flood attack is a success. Well done, Snaptrap. Be grateful that I haven't cut your head off." Anger said to Snaptrap, with a hint of disgust heard in his part. Snaptrap may be on Azure's side now, but he still hadn't forgotten what he did before. Snaptrap laughed amusingly, "I see. You haven't let go of grudge? It's understandable. I don't blame you for wanting revenge on me. But at least, you did what I instructed to do." "Only because cousin told me that you have some use. Because if you don't, I can kill you to avenge Rhino! Either way, looks like we're ready to march. The real battle is about to begin. Don't fall behind Blade Dragoon!" The Imperial Phoenix Soldiers nodded, exclaiming, "My lord!" "Wow... Anger is sure got rivalry with Blade Dragoon..." Ben whistles in amazement while shaking his head. "Yeah, he isn't the kind to give up a grudge so easily." Sunset said in concern. From what she reads and recalls of him, Anger isn't one pony to let go of a grudge so easily, and won't do so until he sees it through. "Let's hope he doesn't really live up to his name." Fluttershy muttered. Schemetrick continues, "We should return to main unit now and prepare to lay another siege. The flood attack will decrease the enemy's morale and supplies now." "Agreed... Let's go." Anger said with a slight smirk on his face. Anger's unit marched off and heading back to their main unit. Out of nowhere, a stray arrow shot and hit straight at Anger's left eye, causing him to yelp and scream in pain. He almost fell to the ground. "What just happened," Twilight cries out in shock and alarm. "Anger has just been attacked!" Ben exclaims as he looks around in alarm. That attack appeared to came from out of nowhere. Schemetrick gasped, "General Anger!" "Where did that come from," Snaptrap demanded angrily. He hestured a binocular and found Gigaton stood on the hill. He made funny faces. Snaptrap groaned, "I should have known that there's another path for them to get out of castle!" Anger grunted in pain as he tried to pull the arrow out of his left eye. Everyone was in shock and worry about him. "Hey, hey, don't pull that arrow out!" Sunset exclaims in alarm. "Are you trying to kill yourself?!" "Right, don't do that." Fluttershy said in agreement. Unfortunately, Anger did as he pulled the arrows out from his left eye. And unfortunately, it has his damaged eyeball. "Eeeew," The girls exclaims in disgust at this sight. "And so, looks like we found out how he got his nickname." Ben whispers quietly to himself. Schemetrick spoke as he checks to see if his friends is okay, "Anger, are you alright?!" "I'm fine. Damn those fools! Do they really think that they could get rid of me easily?! I won't let my ancestors' blood to throw away!" Anger exclaims in anger. Those cowards, trying to take him out that easily! They made a serious mistake! To everyone's and even Gigaton's shock, Anger placed his eyeball in his mouth to gobble up. "What the hell," Gigaton exclaims in shock. He ate his own eyeball?! The warrior doesn't know if that's hardcore or just plain sick! "Oh, disgusting!" Sunset exclaims in disgust and disbelief. She read how warriors of the past did some terrible and disgusting thing, but this? This top them all! "I'm going to not sleep well tonight." Fluttershy said with a whimper. "Ick. When Anger doesn't mess around, he DEFINITELY don't mess around." Ben comments as Twilight nodded silently. "I'm outta here!" Gigaton exclaims in alarm and horror as Anger gets back up. He decided it's wise to get the hell out of here before Anger comes after him...in anger!! Anger grunted in pain, "When I find that asshole, I'm gonna his eyes and break him down!" "Either way, I'll heal your injury a bit. But we have to get back and get some medical check on you." Twilight advises Anger carefully. Anger sighed, "Thanks, Oracle..." ------------------ A week has passed since she left the Flooding Fortress, Skycrush managed to convince and requested Greed Broke to send reinforcement to help her family, and in-return, she's willing to marry his son. And two days later, she has returned with Greed Broke and his army of 10,000. They all stood before the Flooding Fortress, which shown badly damaged by Imperial Phoenix Army. "Oh no! Father! Mother! They're in danger." Skycrush gasps in horror and fear. She turned to Greed Broke while urging, "We must hurry and save them now!" "We will." Greed Broke spoke as he smirked amusingly. "But remember the agreement we have." Skycrush grunted, "Do not worry. I will honor it. You have my word, my lord." Greed Broke's Army began their marching as they're all heading straight to Flooding Fortress. A miles away from the fortress, they got ambushed and attacked by Axen's Unit, who came down from small hills. "Greed Broke! Stand down now!" Axen ordered Greed Broke, preparing himself of retribution. Greed Broke yelped in shock, "An ambush?! Are you kidding me?!" "Damn it. They must have been anticipating my move." Skycrush hisses angrily as she armed herself with her Crossed Pikes. "No matter the cost, I will return home!" Blazefist ended up blocking her way as he said sternly, "Sorry, kiddo. You won't be going anywhere." "Cause you're coming with us!" Laxtinct boasted with a mad laugh. "Right, surrender to us if you know what's good for you." Starlight said to Skycrush, "Because I hate to do otherwise." "Why bother?" PInkie ask Pinkie happily. "We're going to do it anyway. And I'm right!" Axen's Unit charged and attacked Greed Broke's Army, who fought back against them. Axen jumped off his dragon steed as he swung and stroke his giant axe at them one-by-one. Both Blazefist and Laxtinct have their back-to-back close while armed with their spear and war hammer. They both charged and engaged the armies swift and fierce for few rounds while helping each other from being attacked. Greed Broke was running away and hiding behind trees, river and rocks as he was avoiding his enemies spotting and attacking him. Starlight, Rainbow and Pinkie surrounded Skycrush. Three of them armed and readied to fight the daughter of Demon Warrior. "You're gonna be sorry for messing up with me and my friends." Rainbow remarked furiously. "Right, and for being...new and stuff," Pinkie said weakly, much to her friends' disbelief. "Sorry, it's been a long day." "You do not frightened me easily. I've fought many battles than weak mares like you three." Skycrush boasted arrogantly. She isn't about to let three mares scared her off like that. "Geez, this mare doesn't know us very well, do she?" "Neither do everyone else." Rainbow said, shaking her head in disgust. "Plus, talking back?" "She's daughter of a Demon Warrior, what do you expect?" Starlight reminded her friends bruntly. Rainbow screamed wildly as she charged and struck her spear at Skycrush, who moved back before struck her Crossed Pikes in pushing and knocking rainbow-maned pony off. Both of them struck and clashed their blades at each other fierce and swift for few rounds. Rainbow swung her spear at Skycrush's head, but missed as the Demon Warrior's Daughter kicked her off. Pinkie fired her Party Canon and Starlight fired her magic blasts at Skycrush. The Demon Warrior's daughter quickly avoid and dodged the attacks while charging straight at them both. She also deflected and blocked the attacks. Upon reaching her targets, she threw her crossed pikes at them in boomerang style. They yelped and dodged the attacks before they got kicked off. Three mares got up and attacked Skycrush again. Unfortunately for three of them, they were unable to attack and strike her down. For a few rounds, she easily dodged and blocked the attack swiftly while strike back at them very hard and fierce. Rainbow, Starlight and Pinkie readied themselves to attack Skycrush, who remained firm and calm as she detached her crossed pikes into two pikes while spinning them. Three of them charged and attacked her with their weapons but easily blocked and pushed back by Skycrush for ten rounds. She jumped and gave a swift kick on them to the ground. Skycrush scoffed, "I'm disappointed. I'm expecting more challenges..." Blazefist suddenly jumps in before Skycrush would think of finishing this off. Waving his weapon around, he snaps, "How about stand down now? You have no chance to win this." Skycrush turned and found herself surrounded by Axen's Unit, and not a sight of Greed Broke and his army. "If you're wondering about Greed Broke, don't bother. He chickened out." Laxtinct boasted in amusement. "Damn it. Damn that coward!" Skycrush cursed furiously. Greed Brooke must've left her to die! He will pay when she gets her hooves on him! "Surrender now. You cannot win." Axen orders as he aims his weapon at her throat, ready to cut it if she so makes a false move. Skycrush snarled, "Never! The daughter of Devil Destroyer never surrender till her breath ends!" "Oooh, poor choice of words," Rainbow comments in amusement as she shakes her head. "Why are we always the ones making comments when Jus gets to the write in comments part of this story?" Pinke ask in bewilderment. Luckily, her friends chose to just ignore her on that one. Blazefist armed and readied his spear, speaking, "It doesn't matter. It ends now." And just before anyone could react, they all heard some loud battle cry and dragon steed's roar. They turned to the forest's direction. They found Bladestrike riding his dragon steed and charging at them. "Prepare yourself! The Warrior Bladestrike is here!" Bladestrike exclaims madly. And just before anyone could react, Bladestrike rammed his dragon steed in knocking soldiers while he swung his axes in knocking and cutting them, and even knocked out Axen, Blazefist and Laxtinct at ease. Bladestrike turned to Skycrush. He grabbed and gotten her on his dragon steed. "Forgive me, Sifu." Skycrush apologized for her failure. Bladestrike spoke quietly, "At least, you've made it home safe. Let's get inside the fort now." Bladestrike trotted his dragon steed as he and Skycrush were heading straight back to the Flooding Fortress. Axen's Unit slowly recovered and getting up from the ground while watching their enemies escaping. "Well, this is nice." Rainbow remarks sarcastically. "As a friend of mine once said, this day couldn't suck more." Starlight remarked in agreement. ------------------------- Third day, night time, Azure Phoenix and his allies have gathered to have more discussion. Anger, now donned an eye patch on his left eye, has recovered from his injuries. "Anger, how is your wounds?" Azure asked Anger seriously. Anger grunted, "I'm fine, cousin. This is nothing." "Well, this is how he got his nicknamed of One-Eyed." Ben said as he scratches his chin. "Though I thought he got it another way." "It's best we leave it alone for now." Applejack said, glancing at Anger grunting some more. "I don't think it's wise to do so right now." "We have executed three strategies perfectly. And only one left to do." Azure said with a nod. He's right. One three strategies appeared to be done perfectly, only 1 to go. Snaptrap nodded while commenting, "Indeed. We need somepony to go in and convince some officers and soldiers to turn on their master. If they defected to us, we will have the chance to defeat Devil Destroyer for good." Schemetrick looks thoughtful as he turns to the future ones, adding, "However, we need someone, who has either honesty and charms, to talk to this. If we were to succeed it." Twilight gasped, "Wait... You don't mean..." "Me and Rarity," Applejack asked in worry. They wanted her and Rarity to do this task? Rarity hissed in alarm, "That's preposterous! I doubt these ruffians would listen to us, letting them to touch me!" "Weren't you the one able to calm the Dragon Raiders during Qin Wang Di's reign?" Schemetrick reminded her. Rarity remained silent. He is right about that one. "If you can do it, then this shouldn't be the problem." "Yes. We don't have anyone else that have your traits." Snaptrap said in agreement. Rarity shouldn't have any problem with this task. Applejack and Rarity said in hesitance and at the same time, "I don't know..." "Don't worry. I'll go with them. With my teleportation spell, we could get in and get out." Twilight boasted in determination. Applejack sighed, "I suppose it's better than nothing." "Indeed..." Rarity said in agreement. Hopefully this plan works. "Well, if they say you could do it, I guess you could." Fluttershy muttered in agreement. "Just be careful, okay?" Spike asked Rarity with a sigh. "I'm glad you've accepted it. Good luck out there." Azure said calmly to the two mares. Luck, yeah, they will need it all right. --------- In the morning, Twilight teleported her friends inside the Flooding Fortress. Three of them yelped as they quickly hid inside the house. They saw Devil Destroyer shouted angrily at one of his subordinates. Hou hissed in terror, "Please, my lord! I beg of you! I don't mean to disrespect you!" Devil Destroyer punched Hou to the ground as he screams, "Idiots! Worthless! Cowards! How dare you suggest that kind of idea?! This army will never surrender!" Hou shivered and quivered in fear. Song and Wei came to their friends' aid while bowed to the ground. Song and Wei pleads to their angry master, "Please, forgive him! Hou didn't mean to disrespect you. We promised to give a better suggestion." Devil Destroyer groaned in anger as he wanted to punch on Hou again. Vile steps in at this point to calmly speak, "My lord! This is not the time to fight among ourselves. we must repay the castle walls now. It's badly damaged! Imperial Phoenix could strike any moment." "Please, my lord. We need more soldiers." Bladestrike pleads in agreement. Devil Destroyer grunted, "Fine. The next time you all suggest something stupid, I'll kill you all! Understand?!" His soldiers all nodded. They decided it's best not to piss him off further than he is now. "Now leave me!" Hou, Song and Wei yelped as they all quickly and ran away from him. Devil Destroyer huffed as he led his back to his office. "Geez, of all the ponies, Devil Destroyer is a jerk." Rarity mumbled. "At least all Azure is much more competent in light of him trying to take Twilight away from us." "Yes, still, Devil Destroyer is a saint compared to him right now." Twilight mumbles a bit. She is still unsure if she wants to be loyal to Azure after how she's viewing them. Hay, for all she knows... Applejack interrupts her train of thought, "Well, after seeing this, those ponies deserved better." "Right." In nighttime; How, Song and Wei were inside the house. They all were having dinner. All of them were upset, angered and annoyed of what Devil Destroyer did to them. "I can't stand on him anymore! That idiot is gonna get us killed!" Wei exclaims angrily. Song nodded while commenting, "Yes. He only cared for himself and his family, more than us. No thanks to wretched witch! She's the cause of this from the start!" Hou added, "Yes. Ever since Cruez's death and Devil's marriage with her, things have gone worst especially like today. We can't stay here anymore." "Then, what do we supposed to do?" "Yeah. We're out of option." Wei sighs a bit. Unless the trio finds a way out of this madness, they're stuck with a mad pony! "Not quite." A familiar voice spoke up. The trio yelps as Twilight's group comes into the room. "W-Who are you?! Are you with Azure Phoenix?!" Hou demanded, preparing himself to defend himself and his pals. "Yes. Don't worry. We're not here to hurt you. We're here to ask for help." "Why should we trust you?" Song ask Twilight suspiciously. "Yeah. What is it in for us?" Wei ask in agreement. The enemy wanted to know what they would even get for all their trouble. "For starters, you badmouth about your boss. And second, from what we have seen and heard after couple days, he didn't treat you all well. So, why not help us?" Applejack asked honestly to the trio. "Hmm... I don't know... Open rebellion isn't the wise thing to do." Hou said in hesitation. Devil Destroyer will destroy them all if they even go against him. "Would you rather be staying with that monster and get killed?" Rarity sighed before using her charms. "My strong stallions, you don't deserve this such poor treatment. You all deserve better. By joining Azure Phoenix, three of you will be rewarded handsomely and treated well. After all, I heard Azure Phoenix treated his soldiers well." Hou, Song and Wei looked at each other for the moment. They all gave some thinking before nodded, all saying at once, " When do we start?!" Twilight smiles. Now they're getting somewhere! She explains, "We need all the soldiers, who is really fed up with Devil Destroyer. And also, we have to capture his loyal soldiers. Easy for you three to capture him when he's asleep." Hou, Song and Wei nodded while adding, "Got it." "We'd better go now." Using teleportation spell, Twilight and her two friends escaped and teleported back to Imperial Phoenix Camp. -------------------------------------- SCREAM! Devil Destroyer yelped as he got up. He found a group of soldiers, led by Hou, Song and Wei, surrounded and aimed their blades at him. He even found his family and three loyalists were in tied ropes. "What is the meaning of this?!" Devil Destroyer demanded furiously. Hou exclaims madly, "Revenge! Salvation! Death to Devil Destroyer!" "Yeah! It's time for you to pay for your crimes!" Song added eagerly. "We won't let you intimidate us anymore! Get him!" Wei exclaims quickly. Hou and his rebels charged and engaged Devil Destroyer, who quickly dodge and avoid the attacks. He then punched and kicked them off one-by-one. He grabbed his halberd at once. He then quickly freed his allies off. They all jumped over to the rooftop and to the ground. However, Devil Destroyer and his allies found more of their troops armed and aimed their weapon at him. "Get him!" One rebel exclaims in determination. Devil Destroyer's turncoats and soldiers charged and attacked them head on. Devil Destroyer's Team fought back and defeated most of them. And at the same time, they quickly find and get their weapons from their rooms. They all escaped outside of Flooding Fortress. "Now what," Gigaton exclaims in alarm to Devil Destroyer. "This is what I'm afraid of! It's over now!" Vile added in worry. Most of their allies has turned against them, they're apparently outnumbered here. "No, it's not. We have one more chance to win this. Kill Azure Phoenix." Devil Destroyer snarled furiously. It's thanks to Azure that their forces are turning against him. He must die to end this. "But my lord, it's too dangerous! We will die." Butterfly protest in worry. "I rather fight then surrender. I fight as a warrior, not a coward!" "I shall stand by your side, my lord." Bladestrike said in salute. "So, do I, father. I do not fear death." Skyrcrush said calmly and confidentially. "Me too," Gigaton said, giving out the same salute. Butterfly Dancer sighed, "If this is what you want, then I will go with you." "Mad! You're all mad!" Vile exclaims in horror. Everyone will be dead before this is even over! "Would you die inside?" Devil Destroyer spoke darkly to Vile, causing him to gulp nervously and back off. "Nope..." "Then, shut up and follow my lead. This ends now!" ---------------- The large army of Imperial Phoenix Army and even Virtue Dragon's Forces have stood in front of the main camp. The army were led by all of the generals. Azure Phoenix, Virtue Dragon, Schemetrick, Snaptrap, Bullhound and Mane Six were inside the main camp. They all waited firmly and readied to fight against Devil Destroyer. Fluttershy spotted a familiar group of six led by Devil Destroyer. They all were riding their dragon steeds. They all were charging straight at the Imperial Phoenix Army. Devil Destroyer roared in anger and wildly. "Oh my! They're coming here!" Fluttershy exclaimed in concern and worried, "And he's in bad mood!" "What," Mane Six and their friends asked. "How many of them?!" Rainbow asked in concern. "Just six of them," Fluttershy said in concern. "My goodness! He can't be serious!" Rarity exclaimed in shock. "He's crazy?! He can't actually think he can beat all of us?! Is he?!" Spike asked in concern. Sunset gulped, "If he's anything like Lu Bu, he would do anything to win even if it means a suicide." "Devil Destroyer..." Azure Phoenix said in shock yet impressed, "He is truly the most powerful warrior in the land." "Most dangerous monster to fight..." Virtue Dragon said in concern. "Is it me? Did Azure got impressed with Devil Destroyer?!" Applejack asked in concern. Twilight gulped, "i'm afraid he is, Applejack." "He must be crazy about it," Pinkie exclaimed in concern. Schemetrick patted Pinkie's back, "Don't worry, Pinkie. Lord Azure knows what he's doing." "I hope so." Starlight said in concern, "Cause he's coming here!" "Prepare the battle!" Azure Phoenix ordered firmly. Both Imperial Phoenix Army and Virtue Dragon's armed and held their positions to fight and fending off their enemies. Giving a nudge to their dragon steeds, Devil Destroyer and his team were charging while giving a loud battle cry. Coming close to a large army, Devil Destroyer's Force fiercely and brutally rammed and killed Imperial Phoenix Army while reaching their destination. Bladestrike swung his twin axes and Gigaton used his broadsword in slashing and striking down his enemies. Vile used his magic powers of blasting and knocking them. Butterfly Dancer and Skycrush stayed close together as they punched, kick and used their weapons in taking them down. Devil Destroyer roared in anger as he used his brute force in defeating all of his enemies that have come to stop him. "Don't let the enemy reach Azure!" Anger ordered firmly, "Attack!" Anger, Axen, Blazefist, Laxtinct, Blade Dragoon, Warpath Temper and Dragonspear gave a loud battle cry as they all charged and engaged Devil Destroyer and his team at once. As they're close to their enemies, they're all about to slam their weapons. But instead, Devil Destroyer gave a loud battle cry as he swung his halberd in knocking all of them down. The soldiers became scared and worried as they quickly moved and back away from the team. Devil Destroyer's Team continued charging straight to the main camp at once. They all stood before Azure Phoenix and his group. Bullhound stood before Devil Destroyer's team. "So, you have come..." Azure Phoenix asked amusingly, "Brave and powerful but foolish as always. You never learn from your mistakes. Charge and attack without strategy. You're nothing but a monster with no brains." Devil Destroyer snarled, "I have enough of you and your talk! Let's end this now!" "Yes... Let's end this..." Azure Phoenix said firmly, "Come and face me, Demon!" Devil Destroyer roared in anger, "AZURE PHOENIX! DIE!" Nudged his Red Hard, Devil Destroyer charged right at Azure Phoenix. This forced Devil Destroyer's Team to turn and engaged the enemies. Bullhound quickly rammed and knocked the Red Hare, causing Devil Destroyed to the ground. And just before his team could do anything, they found more soldiers coming out from trapdoors and camps, and even Anger led the large army back to the camp. Devil Destroyer's Team turned and fought back against the enemies. Vile was about to use magic spells, but got blasted to the walls by both Schemetrick and Snaptrap. And just before Gigaton could charge, Axen swiftly dodge the attacks before tripped and slammed his axe in knocking Gigaton down. Bladestrike fought against Blazefist and Laxtinct, who used sword-and-shield formation in pushing him back for few rounds until they knocked him down. Skycrush engaged Warpath Temper and Blade Dragoon, who used their brute strength to fight for few rounds until Dragonspear jumped and thrust his spear in knocking her down. Three Sworn Brothers aimed their weapons at her. Butterfly Dancer did her best to deflect and fend herself as Anger fought fiercely to attack her for few rounds until she tripped to the ground. However, this didn't stop Devil Destroyer from charging at Azure Phoenix. Virtue Dragon, Twilight and her friends quickly came to his aid while readied to fight. However, Devil Destroyer got struck down by some arrows, followed by soldiers and officers come and attacked him. He screamed in anger as he fought back against his enemies. After few rounds of fighting and pushing back his enemies, Devil Destroyer became exhausted and tired after a fierce battle. And just before he could react, Anger raised and slammed hard his scimitar at Devil Destroyer, knocking a powerful Demon Warrior to the ground. Devil Destroyer groaned in pain and exhaustion, "No... No... No! I can't be defeated! I can't!" "Oh, be quiet. It's over," Anger said darkly, "Tied up him and his team! These animals need to be caged!" Mane Six and their friends in shock and surprise of what they just saw. Azure Phoenix has finally defeated and captured Devil Destroyer and his forces. The Battle of Flooding Fortress is over... -------------------------------------------- Inside the Flooding Fortress's office, Azure Phoenix and his allies stood before the tied-up of Devil Destroyer and his team. The executioners were close to the prisoners as they're all ready to execute them. Mane Six and her friends were among their allies as well. "Master Devil... If only you have followed my strategy from the start," Vile said, "We wouldn't have been in this mess. We would never lose the battle!" "Strategy," Devil Destroyer demanded in anger, "Your strategy only served of getting in my way!" Vile sighed, "Oh my lord... Whenever you gonna learn that strategy is the key to our victory..." Butterfly Dancer sighed, "My lord, he is right about it." "Either way, have some dignity," Bladestrike said firmly and calmly, "And die like a warrior..." "Are you done yet?" Azure Phoenix asked calmly, "Let me ask you something. Are you willing to serve and help me realize my ambition?" Gigaton snarled, "Never! I would never join you. Got to hell!" "Your loyalty to Devil is admirable but misplaced and wasted. But I promised someone to get his revenge," Azure Phoenix said darkly. "Hello..." Anger climbed down and approached frightened and worried Gigaton. He smirked as he held an arrow, "I have to thank you for giving me my strength and also a revenge for trying to take my ancestor's blood! Now die!" Gigaton screamed in fear as Anger began stabbing an arrow on both of his eyes brutally and cruelly for few times. He even gutted his enemy's eyes out. Mane Six and their friends hissed in concern from watching Anger's execution on his enemy. After Anger sighed for satisfied with his revenge, he threw Gigaton to the ground as he died with his eyes are blinded and covered in blood. Azure Phoenix turned to Vile, who scoffed amusingly, "Now why would I serve you? You couldn't even slay that helpless swine before. And besides, do you actually could trust me after what I've done to you or what you have done to this land?" Azure Phoenix hummed calmly and firmly before showing sighed in disappointment. He recalled of what Vile has done to him especially he's the one that allowed Devil Destroyer to attack and conquered his base. He turned to his executioner and gave a nod. "But I will give you a warning for your future," Vile said darkly, "The Phoenix you tried to tame will never be yours because it will change your live for better or worse. You know where it once belongs to! She will never be yours to tame!" The executioner swung his sword in chopping Vile's head off to the ground. Azure Phoenix turned and glared at Bladestrike before turned to both calm Blazefist and worried Laxtinct. He returned his glare at former warrior. And just before Azure Phoenix, Blade Dragoon approached and spoke to him, "My lord Azure Phoenix, before you could execute him. There's something you must know about Bladestrike. While he maybe the enemy, he is a brave and strong warrior, as well as honorable and righteous stallion. Please, spare him." "Lord Blade Dragoon, please do not interfere the affairs," Bladestrike said firmly. He sighed, "I'm ready to die. I have nothing to say." "No. I will not kill you," Azure Phoenix said firmly, surprising Bladestrike, Blazefist and Laxtinct. He explained, "There is more to you than mere follower to Devil Destroyer. It will be waste of your talents to serve under him. And therefore, you should serve under me. In my battlefield, you will not only hone and strengthen your skills but also find your purpose." "Lord Azure..." Bladestrike said in shock and surprise before sighed, "I... I will think about it." "No..." Blazefist said angrily. Laxtinct whistled, "Oh boy..." Azure Phoenix turned and looked at both Butterfly Dancer and Skycrush, "I will not kill them either. They have some use to me." The soldiers approached and moved Bladestrike, Butterfly Dancer and Skycrush away. Only Devil Destroyer remained as he looked angry and glared at Azure Phoenix. "Azure, you dare presume I serve you?!" Devil Destroyer asked angrily, "NEVER!" "Hmph, Do you not find me worthy?" Azure Phoenix asked. He turned to Virtue Dragon and even Twilight, "Tell me... Would you care to spare him?" Virtue Dragon shook his head, "I think not. He cannot be trusted." "He's right. He can't be trusted..." Twilight agreed. The rest of her friends nodded in agreement. She sighed, "You know what he has done before, even if you treat him well." "I see..." Azure Phoenix turned to Devil Destroyer, "It seems that you're destined to die here..." Angered and fury by Azure Phoenix's declaration, Devil Destroyer roared and shouted in anger as he was about to move but held back by the soldiers. Butterfly Dancer and Skycrush grunted as they struggled to get out and saving him. "You lot are pathetic!" Devil Destroyer shouted in anger, "I am... I'm Devil Destroyer, the strongest to ever live!" With his tremendous might, Devil Destroyer broke free from ropes and even soldiers. He charged and was about to attack Azure Phoenix. Twilight and her friends came and formed perimeter as they're about to face him. However, Bullhound used the mace flail of holding Devil Destroyer back and even Warpath Temper and Blade Dragoon pushed the Demon Warrior back. Nevertheless, Devil Destroyer roared in anger as he tried to push forward. But instead, Azure Phoenix appeared before him as he slammed his sword right at Devil Destroyer's chest. The Demon Warrior dropped to the ground hard. "Very well... I shall remember that..." Azure Phoenix declared, "Farewell, you beast of chaos..." Butterfly Dancer and Skycrush cried and sobbed tearfully upon looking at Devil Destroyer's body while Bladestrike looked down and remained quiet. The rest of Imperial Phoenix and Virtue Dragon's Forces remained silent while looking at his corpse. Twilight sighed, "It's over..." END... Review and Suggest...