//------------------------------// // Chapter 19: Blade Dragoon's Journey // 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 15: Blade Dragoon's Journey "No longer threatened by conspirators or rebellions from any sides, Azure Phoenix was ready to face his old friend - Noble Guild." Narrator narrated, "September 161 A.E. Having made the necessary preparation, he advanced his army towards the Great Fortress, the site where all would be decided." Azure Phoenix has massed his army, which numbered about 70,000 Soldiers. He then led the army to the Great Fortress, where he was preparing to face and duel against Noble Guild and his army of 700,000 Griffon Soldiers. "Virtue Dragon and his allies are among Noble Guild's army. They soon found themselves on the fields of Great Fortress, where two powerful warlords engaged in battle.” Virtue Dragon and his remaining allies were among Noble Guild's Army as they all were preparing themselves to enter the battlefield. "Azure Phoenix and Noble Guild... Their battle to control of the land was about to begin..." Imperial Phoenix Army and Noble Guild's Forces have arrived at the fields of Great Fortress. They all have armed and readied for the greatest battle in history - 'The Battle of Great Fortress'. -------------------------------------------- During nighttime, most of Imperial Phoenix Army including Blade Dragoon, Twilight and her friends were gathered inside the main camp. Ratio, Woren Alert, Navy Arrow and Armorhide remained behind and guard Xuchang Province and other Imperial Phoenix's territories. They all were discussing some strategy to fight against the large forces of Noble Guild. Blazefist and Laxtinct returned from recon on the battlefield. "Let us begin the war council," Azure Phoenix said firmly, "Report the situation..." Blazefist bowed humbly as he explained, "My brother and I have mapped the battlefield area. Here is the enemy's positions." He revealed Noble Guild's chess pieces covering the northern part of forest field and camps. He continued, "Noble Guild really has covered his grounds on most of northern part." "If we're gonna win this fight, we need to beat Noble Guild," Laxtinct said optimistically before frowned and concerned, "Don't need to be bearer of bad news - if you lose, we've lost the fight." "I know you're all probably aware," Schemetrick said calmly, "but we're seriously outnumbered here. In other words, a frontal assault simply isn't an option." Strikespell sighed, "Spare us what we already now. Tell us your plan." "Please, allow me." Snaptrap spoke firmly, "At the moment, the two crossings at White Stallion Fort and Guandu Fort are under control of Noble Guild's forces. If we succeed in taking them, then we will have our bridgehead." Strikespell nodded understandingly, "Okay... I'm sure the enemy aren't going to just let us take them, though." "Quite right. Which is where our diversion comes in." Schemetrick answered, "Someone to catch their attention by coming at them head on." Snaptrap continued as he placed three blue chess pieces on two forts, "Place decoys at White Stallion Fort and Guandu Fort, then launch the attacks from each unit." "However, the problem is those decoys though." Blade Dragoon said in concern, "The enemy is so great in number that they'll be simply overrun." Snaptrap nodded in confirmation, "Exactly. You're a smart stallion. I can see why our lord value you so much." Blade Dragoon bowed humbly, "Forgive me. It's not my place to speak out." "Then, you will have to go yourself, Father." Strikespell spoke firmly. Applejack gasped, "You're gonna use your father as a decoy?! He could get killed! Are you willing to let your father to die?!" "How cruel of you!" Fluttershy exclaimed in anger. "Hmm.. If this is to accomplish the mission, then so be it. I would be decoy." Azure Phoenix said calmly and firmly, "The winner of this battle will control the Northern Ma. If we can get pass the massive army, that is..." Strikespell scoffed, "Father, don't tell me you're afraid." "I am being used as bait." Azure Phoenix snapped a bit before spoke gently, "Clearly, I am not afraid of Noble Guild. The era in which the nobility can rule the land is over. Even he himself know it to be true." "Cousin..." Anger said in concern. "Hah... Quite brilliant, Lord Strikespell." Snaptrap remarked amusingly, "Your father would be proud. Willing to use our father as a decoy... You're quite a piece of work. " "In that case, perhaps I maybe so bold as to suggest myself for the role?" Blazefist spoke firmly. Snaptrap laughed, "Well met, Master Blazefist. Thank you for volunteering." Blazefist sighed, "It's nothing. Just doing my job." Snaptrap nodded, "Remember, if that line breaks, the enemy will have a straight shot to Lord Azure Phoenix and Schemetrick. So, do not expect backups. Our lord's fate rests in your hooves. We are counting on you." Blazefist nodded, "Will be done, master." "They're crazy..." Starlight said in concern, "Really crazy to take this kind of gambit." "You think?" Spike asked sarcastically. Azure Phoenix turned and looked at Twilight and Schemetrick, "Tell me. Can we win this battle?" "Yes," Twilight said firmly, "But you and Schemetrick already know it." "Yes. He has numbers, but Noble Guild is indecisiveness and imperceptive. He is a griffon of the past - this should be enough to deal with him." Schemetrick said calmly, "But for you, my lord, you have proven yourself more decisive and effective yet talented leader that this land required." "Is that so?" Azure Phoenix asked amusingly. Schemetrick nodded as he listed down, "Yes. Ten reasons why you are better than Noble Guild. And the reasons why he cannot bested you, no matter how famous he is. 1. You behave naturally to the world than merely concern with formalities. 2. You've earned and commanded the Qin Dynasty's authority for respect and righteous. 3. You manage and uphold both laws and discipline for soldiers and citizens to obey and follow. 4. You judged on ponies and their talents before tolerate and trust them. 5. You adapted well to any changes and very decisive on strategies on your choose. 6. You recruit the ponies by sincerity and virtuous rather than boosting fame to gain followers. 7. While your appearance is ruthless, but you actually care and concern of what is important to you and the others. 8. Unlike Noble Guild, you ensure that your followers follow your example and work together as unity than letting greed and pride corrupted them. 9. You judge wisely and cautiously between right and wrong on ponies and their actions. 10. Finally, you have experience and courage to face some certain of doom and death. Your soldiers respect you. Your enemies fear you. And thus, you were made as a great wise and brave leader than Noble Guild can do. You have nothing to fear, my lord." Azure Phoenix smiled, "You are indeed correct, my friends. Truly right." "Isn't that kind of exaggerating?" Spike asked in concern. Nyx hummed, "No. I don't think so. What Schemetrick said is true, Azure Phoenix is really a good leader from future, but too bad when he's a tyrant for this timeline." "We shall proceed with this plan?" Snaptrap asked, making Azure Phoenix nodded. He continued, "Lord Azure Phoenix is the perfect bait. We can lure out the enemy from both White Stallion and Guandu Fort. As he makes his advance up the middle, we'll strike both places at the same time. Then, we can squeeze the enemy in the center between us." "We must divide and isolate the enemy forces." Schemetrick said amusingly. Snaptrap nodded, "Lord Strikespell and I will attack from Guandu Fort. Master Blade Dragoon, Master Bladestrike and Master Anger, you take White Stallion Fort." Everyone nodded and bowed humbly, "LORD!" Bladestrike nodded, "The enemy numbers are impressive. And surely, they will have even more reinforcement lying in wait. However, though we may be outnumbered, we possess the superior skill. If everypony gives their all, then we are sure to emerge victorious." Azure Phoenix nodded firmly, "Let the great battle begin!" Most of Imperial Phoenix Officers exited and left the main camp. They all were making preparation for the battles. Twilight and her friends were the last group to leave until they bumped onto someone else. They found a brown Unicorn with crimson spiky mane and short tail while his Cutie Mark is Broadsword, groaning in pain while lying down on the floor. "Hey, are you alright?" Spike asked. "I'm fine. Really. I'm fine." The Earth Pony said firmly. He sighed as he looked and found Blade Dragoon stood before him. "Are you Lord Blade Dragoon?" Blade Dragoon looked surprise and confuse, "Uh... Yes, I am?" The Earth Pony bowed down, "Lord Blade Dragoon! I am honored to meet you! My name is Rogue! I am your attendant and bodyguard, assigned by Lord Azure Phoenix. So, I'll assist and help you with anything you've requested." "Okay. Normally, I usually refused his offer and gifts, mostly," Blade Dragoon said bluntly and firmly, making Rogue disappointed. He quickly spoke, "But for you, I am honored. And by the looks of your weapons and appearance, you required some training and lessons from me." Rogue gasped, "I am honored, Lord Blade Dragoon! I promised you that I will not fail you! I will do my best to best warrior as you are!" Blade Dragoon sighed, "Alright, calm yourself. No need to get overexciting on your first day of battlefield." "Sorry! Forgive me, Lord Blade Dragoon!" "Stop it, please!" "Sorry! Really sorry!" Blade Dragoon sighed as he and Rogue headed off to the stable as they were making some preparation for battles. Twilight and her friends were discussing and chatting. "So, who is he again?" Starlight asked in confusion. "Rogue is Saber's adopted cousin and also Blade Dragoon's adopted son," Applejack answered, "Never thought that he'd be here. So, either way, we stay here and do nothing. Think Azure Phoenix knows something about our friends?" "I think so." Twilight hummed in concern, "Ben... I hope you and others are not with Noble Guild. Because you are, you all are in grave danger..." "Better hope not... Hopefully, they won't go through fugitive routine again," Nyx said in concern and uneasiness, "It's always about villains chasing heroes. It's a real bad news to us." -------------------------------------------- At Noble Guild's Main Camp, Noble Guild was making speech to his army, who stood firmly before him. Ego and Numbskull were among them as well. Virtue Dragon and his allies were watching the event from distance. Saber Dragoon is with them as well after some considerate thinking about joining Virtue Dragon's Forces. They all shown concern and uneasy, despite they're with the most powerful warlord, who is matched with Azure Phoenix's strength. "I hope Lord Noble Guild can help us accomplish our goal." Virtue said in concern and uneasy, "We must defeat Azure Phoenix." "Lord Virtue, I assure you that we will succeed. Lord Noble Guild won't be so easily defeated by Azure Phoenix and his army," Saber said confidently. Dragonspear hummed in uneasiness, "I hope you are right, Master Saber. Azure Phoenix and his army must not be underestimated." "Well, I don't care how strong he is," Ben said firmly, "We're gonna win this fight, and get Twilight back to us." "Hopefully, we can find our friends too before it's too late," Pinkie said in concern. "Well, either way, I am honored to be part of your group," Saber said happily. Virtue smiled, "As am I, Saber. Ben and his friends told me a lot about you. By the look of you, you're indeed a worthy fighter, as well as strategist." "Detective, Lord Virtue. That's the difference," Saber corrected before sighed, "It's good thing that I finally leave the stable boy's duty back. I'd never want to do the dirty work again." "Welcome to the heroes' club!" Pinkie cheered wildly and happily, "And who knows, you might be part of Virtue's family!" "What?!" Virtue and Saber asked in shock and confusion. "Nothing!" Ben exclaimed in concern while shushing Pinkie's mouth Phobos hummed while looking at Noble Guild making a speech to his army. He asked, "Wonder what the heck is he talking about?" "Azure Phoenix... For too long, you have stood in my way! Finally, I will rid myself of your meddlesome presence!" Noble Guild exclaimed firmly, "Your pathetic army is nothing before me. Now you shall witness the power of nobility! Go forth, my great army!" "Lord Noble Guild! Please, you mustn't be so hasty! You cannot launch the attack now!" A white Griffon worn ancient Chinese Strategist's Robe pleaded while bowed down before his master, "I beg of you! Do engage him now! You must wait until his supplies ran out! It's your only chance to win this battle!" Noble Guild scoffed, "That's ridiculous, Thinker! If I don't strike him down, they will have the chance to take me down! Since they're on the field, this is a perfect chance to attack them!" Thinker yelped, "But my lord, please!" "Enough!" Noble Guild shouted in anger and annoyance, "When I give the order, I expect you all to follow! Now go and attack!" And just before Thinker could protest more, Noble Guild's army marched and charged to the battlefield at once. Virtue Dragon's Forces are also marched out as well. Noble Guild stopped them at once. "What is it, Lord Noble?" Virtue asked in concern. "I need you to support Ego and Numbskull to engage and deal with the enemies." Noble Guild said firmly and calmly, "Can you handle it?" Virtue bowed humbly, "It will be done." Noble Guild smiled, "Good. Now go forth. Show them the meaning of nobility under my leadership!" As Virtue Dragon's Forces nodded firmly, they all quickly moved out to the battlefield. And at the same time, Phobos blew a raspberry at Noble Guild from the back. This made the Griffon Warlord shocked yet annoyed to turn back and found no one was there. He then screamed and cursed angrily about creature insulting him from his back. Phobos chuckled amusingly to see Noble Guild lose his temper, but not before he gets his head smacked by Ben. The rest of Virtue Dragon's Forces sighed in annoyance while shaking their heads about the Moon Dragon's attitude. -------------------------------------------- Azure Phoenix, Schemetrick, Blazefist and their 300 Soldiers have arrived at the plain field, which was located between White Stallion Fort and Guandu Fort. They all formed a circle formations. Soldiers armed shields and spears were on the front while the archers armed and readied with their bows and arrows for firing down on their enemies. Ego and Numbskull were leading the frontal assault on Azure Phoenix's Forces. Strikespell, Bladestrike and Snaptrap were marching towards the Guandu Fort while Anger, Blade Dragoon and Laxtinct headed straight to White Stallion Fort. Twilight and her friends remained behind at Great Fortress Castle as they all witnessed the battlefield from the castle. Ego and Numbskull charged and rammed straight at Azure Phoenix's forces. Blazefist lifted his spear up, signalling the soldiers armed and held up their shields while pushing and ramming the enemies off. Schemetrick signaled the archers to fire and shot out their arrows at them off. Azure Phoenix remained calm and firm while witnessing the battlefield. Both Ego and Numbskull shouting and ordering their soldiers to keep pushing and fighting the enemies off. Eventually, Ego used his bow and arrow to shoot at his enemies while Numbskull continued charging and ramming at his enemies. Thus, this angered Blazefist to jump out from the formation. He charged out and engaged them both. Both of them have proven themselves fierce and prowess for swinging their spear and pike at him, who did his best to dodge and avoid the strikes while thrust and struck his spear at them as fast and swift as he can. Virtue Dragon's Forces were close and ready to support their allies. Unfortunately, they come across to Stikespell, Snaptrap, Bladestrike and 1,000 Soldiers. "What the?!" Snaptrap exclaimed in shock, "You're alive?!" "So, this is the infamous Virtue Dragon?" Strikespell asked amusingly before turned and looked at Ben, "And this must be 'my big brother'. I was expecting you to be older." Ben groaned, "Same old Strikespell... You'd never change." Strikespell scoffed, "Either way, I was told by my father that you're quite skilled warrior. And to be honest, not even close." Ben scoffed, "You ask for it, jackass!" Snaptrap turned to Strikespell, "My lord, we cannot delay too long. And we mustn't mention this to him." Strikespell nodded as he armed his Dual Blades, "Indeed. Prepare yourself!" He turned to Bladestrike, "General, go and assist our allies. We'll get the Gaundu Fort!" Bladestrike nodded, "Will be done!" Bladestrike and his 500 soldiers headed off at once. Strikespell, Snaptrap and their remaining troops charged and engaged Virtue Dragon and his allies. Strikespell charged and engaged Ben, who used Master Sword and Hylian Shield to fight him off for few rounds. Snaptrap used his scythe to fight off Virtue, who blocked and dodged the attacks. Phobos screamed and ran in fear as he was being chased by Imperial Phoenix Soldiers. Dragonspear spotted the enemies running off as he gave chase on them, along with Saber and Pinkie. They went and chased after Bladestrike and his soldiers as they were heading straight to the plain field, where Azure Phoenix and his main forces were engaging Ego and Numbskull. Two Hippogriffs were engaging and dueling with Blazefist, who struggled to hold his ground while fighting them off. Both of them swung their spear and pike at him, which pushed him to the ground hard. And just before they could finish him off, Bladestrike came and rammed them both aside. Blazefist groaned, "I can handle it! Thank you very much!" Bladestrike scoffed, "Not quite!" Bladestrike charged and engaged both Ego and Numbskull, who screeched in anger as they swung their weapons at him. He fiercely blocked and deflected the attacks while swinging and striking his axes on them firmly and ferociously. They struggled yet determined to fight him off. And just before Blazefist could do anything, he heard a noise. He turned his back and found Pinkie bounced and rolled him over to the ground. "Surprise!" Pinkie cheered wildly. "You again?!" Blazefist groaned in anger as he thrust his Falcon Spear at her. Pinkie jumped back. He snarled, "I'm gonna finish you off for good!" "Aw! That's not nice!" "I am not nice especially a pony, who supported Hippogriff! I'd never ever align myself with anypony, who befriend those filthy creatures!" "Jeez. You're worse than your present. And not to mention, you're a big jerk!" Blazefist groaned in anger as he charged and was about to thrust his Falcon Spear at Pinkie, but deflected and blocked by Saber. "Hey, that wasn't nice of you to treat a lady!" Saber remarked firmly, "And not to mention, you're kinda rude too!" Blazefist scoffed "You'd think I care? I'm only interest is hunt and beat the crap of my enemies especially the Hippogriffs! Who the hell are you?!" Saber armed with his Twin Dragon Swords, "Saber Dragoon! I just joined the army for my first day!" "Oh yeah! This will be your last day to survive," Blazefist remarked amusingly. Blazefist screamed as he thrust his Falcon Spear at Saber, who blocked and held the attack with his twin swords crossed. But the Earth Pony got kicked off before the crimson Pegasus swung his spear at him but missed for few times. Saber jumped and kicked him off hard before swung and struck his swords at Blazefist, who retaliated by blocking and striking back at him. Both Blazefist and Saber fiercely swung and struck their weapons at each other wildly yet fiercely and swiftly for few times. Though they don't know each other well, they couldn't help but feel proud and excited for facing each other. Blazefist and Saber clashed their weapons at each other. "Not bad for a newbie," Blazefist remarked amusingly. "Funny. I could say the same thing about you, buddy!" Saber commented, "And unlike you, I fight for ponies than a tyrant!" Blazefist kicked Saber off, "Think again! I fight for a true leader, who bring order and peace to our land, unlike Virtue! He's a failure!" Saber snarled, "Maybe! But at least, he has a heart for ponies and land!" "Yeah. Don't hold your breathe!" Blazefist exclaimed amusingly. Both Blazefist and Saber departed from clashing their weapons. They both slammed and struck their weapons at each other wildly and fiercely for few rounds. Pinkie whistled, "Wow. These guys are very tensed with the fight. I wonder if Power Master ever gonna show about their rivalry." Dragonspear has arrived at the battlefield as he fought and attacked some of Dragon Steed Cavalry. He then spotted a familiar pony riding Red Hare while holding the Blue Crescent Dragon Blade. He was joined by Rogue, Anger and Laxtinct as they all have arrived from White Stallion Fort. They all charged straight to plain battlefield. "It... It can't be..." Dragonspear said in shock and concern. Bladestrike managed to hold his ground as he swung his axes at both Ego and Numbskull back. He then dropped to the ground in exhaustion. Two Hippogriffs recovered from the attack. As they were about to finish him off, Blade Dragoon arrived at the scene as he dismounted and armed with his weapon. "Blade Dragoon awaits a challenge! Come and face me if you dare!" Blade Dragoon said firmly. Ego scoffed, "You are not so much of a fool that you would not have heard of us!" "Surely you have realized you cannot win," Numbskull commented, "and have come to beg for mercy!" Blade Dragoon slammed his Blue Dragon Crescent Blade on the ground, "Silence! Yours heads will make a fine offering of gratitude to Lord Azure Phoenix!" And just before they could strike him down, Blade Dragoon swung his blade in killing them both at ease. Griffon Army yelped in fear and worry of what they just saw. They all stopped their assaults. They screamed and cried in fear while panicking and running away to main camp at once. Dragonspear was in shock and concern, "Lord Blade Dragoon..." "Well done, Blade Dragoon," Azure Phoenix said amusingly, "We've done enough here. Let us return to base now! This will be no doubt give a great blow to his morale." Schemetrick nodded, "Indeed, my lord. Those two generals are Noble Guild's pride and strength. Without them, he is nothing!" "Yes. Order the retreat!" Azure Phoenix ordered. Azure Phoenix headed off at once. Some soldiers blew the horn, signalling the Imperial Phoenix Soldiers including Blade Dragoon to abandon the battlefield and retreat. And so, most of Imperial Phoenix Army quickly made their escape and retreated to Great Fortress. When Saber tried to strike his swords at his newly rival, Blazefist jumped and moved back. The Pegasus scoffed, "You're strong. But not good enough! We'll meet again! And trust me, I'll win!" "Go to hell!" Saber cursed angrily, "I'll beat the hell out of you!" Blazefist smiled before turned and headed off at once. Saber and Pinkie regrouped with Dragonspear, who looked shock and concern. "What was that about?" Pinkie asked in concern. "Ego and Numbskull are dead," Dragonspear answered, shocking Saber and Pinkie. He sighed, "I have to tell our lord about this. He might not be happy about it." Dragonspear's Team make their return to Virtue Dragon's Forces, who were dealing with Strikespell and his army. Ben and Strikespell continued dueling with each other fiercely and swiftly, and theye even have a clash for few rounds. Virtue tried to get close to defeat Snaptrap, who dodged and launched some tricks and traps on him. After hearing the horn sounded, Strikespell and his army quickly back off from the fight against Virtue Dragon's Forces. The army is making their escape now, leaving Strikespell to glared at his enemies. "This isn't over, Valorheart!" Strikespell said firmly, "Mark my word. We will meet again and finish our duel!" Ben scoffed, "Count on it, jackass!" Strikespell headed off and regrouped with his allies as they all headed back to Great Fortress now. "What was that? Why would Azure Phoenix's Force withdraw?" Virtue asked in concern. "No idea. It can't be worse," Ben remarked. Dragonspear's team regrouped with Virtue Dragon. The noble stallion looked worry and uneasy as he has to tell his lord about Blade Dragoon. "Dragonspear, were you successful with your mission," Virtue Dragon asked. "No, My lord," Dragonspear said in concern, "And there's something you need to know. I... I don't know how to explain..." "Virtue Dragon!" The voice shouted. Virtue Dragon's Forces looked up and found a flying griffon arrived and landed on the ground. He glared at them, "Lord Noble Guild demanded you all to return to the camp at once. He has a word with you all!" Virtue Dragon's Forces looked worry and uneasy especially Dragonspear feared that they're in trouble with Noble Guild... -------------------------------------------- Virtue Dragon and his allies returned to Noble Guild's main camp, where they got caught and held down by his guards. "What is the meaning of this?!" Virtue demanded angrily. "Right; Why did you just attack us," Ben protest in annoyance and alarm. "Right, and I wanna demand and stuff!" Phobos exclaims a bit uselessly. "I demand an explanation! Is it true that Blade Dragoon attack and killed my generals?!" Noble Guild demanded. Virtue and his allies sans Dragonspear were confuse and uncertain, "Because General Clawdestroyer told me that your sworn brother killed them?! Is this true or not?!" "No! That's impossible! It can't be him!" Virtue gasps as he saw a familiar figure approaching, one he thought was gone! A scarred grayish Griffon with dark brown fur donned the blue yellow armor and falcon helmet - Clawdestroyer approached and gave the glare at Virtue. "I know what I saw. I even heard Blade Dragoon called himself and even claimed that he's repaying the debt to Azure Phoenix!" Clawdestroyer remarked darkly. "That is ridiculous!" Pinkie exclaims in alarm. "That would never happen...." "Right, you are wrong and a liar!" Ben exclaims sternly. "And Applejack hates them." "No, he was right." Dragonspear spoke suddenly. Everyone looked at him. He sighed, "I saw him. I saw Blade Dragoon killed both General Ego and General Numbskull." "Wait, what?" Phobos asks a bit confused. "Wow, this came from out of nowhere." Pinkie commented in disbelief. "Of course, JusSonic just got to this after days of delaying his work! I mean, wow!" "Random, Pinks, Random." "How dare you deceive me for all this time? You will pay for this! Guards, arrest and execute them at once!" Noble Guild shouts out in anger and disgust. The ones who deceived him shall die! Virtue and his allies were about to protest, but got grabbed and moved by the Griffon Guards. They all struggled while protesting that they have no idea about Blade Dragoon sides with Azure Phoenix. However, Noble Guild refused to heed and listen to any of them. "Aw man, you really are stupid, you know that?!" Phobos remarked in annoyance. "Phobos, don't!" Ben and Pinkie protest in alarm. Phobos will make things worst! Too late; Upon hearing what Phobos just said, Noble Guild turns him, glaring furiously as he snarls, "What did you call me?!" "Yeah! You heard me! Stupid! The most stupidest and cowardly Griffon I ever met. I mean, come on, he call himself the most feared and mightiest griffon warlord in the world?!" Phobos scoffed in disgust. "Sound like phony!" "Phony?! How dare you?!" "Phobos, you may want to stop." Ben said to Phobos in worry. He can tell that Noble Guild is getting seriously pissed off by the insults. It will take oner big one to make Noble Guild kill the group right here and now! "Right, I don't wanna die before I have foals with Brian!" Pinkie whines out in worry. "I mean the only pony scared me the most is Azure Phoenix, and you couldn't do that! And that means one thing - you're cheating and lazy to do the right way. And that is why you lose, the most stupidest, idiot and cowardly and cheating griffon I ever met." Phobos exclaims madly with a scoff. "SILENT!" Noble Guild screeches out in fury. Everyone yelped in shock and concern. Phobos yawned loudly before blew raspberry at him, "Stupidest; Idiot?! Cowardly?! Cheating?! I'll show you who you’re dealing with, peasant! Release them now!" Everyone but Phobos was shocked and confuse of what they just heard. Nevertheless, the Griffon Guards released Virtue and his allies. Noble Guild sighed as he took his seat, "Anyhow... What do you propose to get your brother away from Azure Phoenix? Without him, it should be easy." "Trust me. I don't think this is really-!" Ben begins to protest in concern. Granted, Phobos amazingly got the group pardoned for now, but this may be a suicide! Virtue cut Ben off as he spoke, "My brother has no idea that we're here, and it's the reason why he served temporary under Azure Phoenix. If we can let him know about it..." "Then, he will leave and return to us." Dragonspear said calmly and in determination. Ben hummed, "What about Azure? I have the feeling that he won't let them go easily." "Maybe he won't, but I know some ponies can help us." Pinkie said thoughtfully as she put one hoof to her chin in thought. "Whatever it is, just do it now! I want to knock that smug of his for good! I wanna be on top of the world! I want the history remember that my nobility won this battle and defeating Azure Phoenix!" Noble Guild screeches out in fury. He will take Azure down no matter what, no one insults or makes a fool of the griffin in one major lifetime! "Okay, that solves the first problem. But who'd be crazy enough to do suicide mission?" Saber spoke out in concern and thought. They need somepony who is willing to risk his or her life for this. Ben sighed, "We're too recognizable for them to know and spot us. Wait a minute! Saber and Pinkie will do the job." "What?! Are you crazy?!" "Yeepee," Pinkie bounces up and down happily. But then she stops upon realizing what Ben just said, causing the Earth pony to slam on her flank in shock, "Wait; What?!" ------------- "And so, Noble Guild have his army return to Northern Griffon. Virtue and his allies headed to the Mystical Temple for new base. Saber Dragoon and Pinkie were embarked a journey to Xuchang Province. And at the same time, they have to avoid from being located and captured by Imperial Phoenix Army since they're wanted fugitive." Noble Guild ordered his army returned to the Northern Griffon. Virtue and his allies headed to Mystical Temple, which was located at the southern part of Xuchang Province. Both Saber and Pinkie went and entered the Xuchang Province as they all did their best to avoid from getting caught by the enemy. "Thus, both Saber and Pinkie managed to evade from being captured. They have managed to locate and found their friends at Twilight's own chamber." Twilight and her friends were hugging and chatting happily to see each other a lot. Blade Dragoon, Rogue and Saber were watching the scene as they all smiled happily. "I done confess, at least despite what's going on, it's great to be chatting like this." Applejack said to Twilight with a chuckle. "I know. No war, no Azure Phoenix and his cruel army's demands." Twilight said playfully, "Just us having some fun." "Don't I know it." "Wow... I know Oracle Twilight is the most intelligent strategist among Imperial Phoenix Army, but I didn't expect her to share friendship with Pinkie, Ben and Phobos..." Saber said, impressed by this. "They all were friends until Azure Phoenix forced her out of hoof to save them." Blade Dragoon said, a concerned look is on his face. "Tell me, Saber. My brother... Is he really?" "Yes. Lord Virtue is alive. And he's heading to Mystical Temple now. He's waiting for you now." "I see. Thank you, young one. We can no longer stay here now." "So, what will we do now?" Rogue asks the group curiously and in concern. "We leave now. But to do so; I require the Lord's permission." Blade Dragoon said in concern. He knows that Azure won't let him leave without permission and will give the group hell if he tries to now. Twilight overheard the conversation. She smiles, turning while adding, "No need. Azure Phoenix allowed me to have some authority. And therefore, I'll give you all the permission to leave and pass cards. All of you can go now." Blade Dragoon bowed as he spoke, "Thank you, Twilight. I am honoured by your generosity." "I'll be going with you. After all, I'm your assistant!" Rogue exclaims quickly. Blade Dragoon looked at him curiously. He continued, "As your assistant, I must follow and assist you anything you requested, no matter what." "Yeah. I'd be honoured to help." Saber said, bowing to Blade Dragoon in respect. Blade Dragoon smiled, speaking, "Yes. I am honoured of it." "Twilight, come with us. We can go together." Applejack insists hopefully. Maybe they can slip out and escape without Azure even knowing it. "Right, you deserved to be with your true friends, not past versions who are big bullies." Fluttershy pleads to Twilight quietly. "Right, mom; Azure doesn't need your help. He can fine on his own." Nyx insists with a hopeful smile. She and her parents can be together again. Nothing can stop that, right? Twilight sighed, "Applejack, I've already told you before. As long I'm with you, you all would be in danger. As long I'm with Azure Phoenix, I have the chance to prevent him from breaking our agreement." "But..." Fluttershy begins to speak but Twilight cut her off. "I know the information I have might give him the chance to rewrite the history, but you all have the chance to rewrite it. If we all succeed in getting three rulers to work together, then the history will remember that friendship is magic." "Darn, I hate it when she used something like that." Spike said with an annoyed sigh at that. Why is he not surprised that his adopted mother will give out that comment in her determination to make things better? "Well, your princess is rather determined....yet stubborn." Blade Dragoon commented, a bit amused by Twilight's determination to at least use friendship to change things. "If you stay, then so shall I." Fluttershy said with a big frown on her face. "Me too; I wanna stay with you!" Nyx exclaims in agreement. She and her group just got back with her mother; they aren't going to abandoned her! Spike nodded in agreement as he spoke, "Yeah. You're not alone. We won't abandon you again; never again!" "What?! But, girls-" Twilight begins to protest in worry. If they stay around, who knows what Azure would do to get them away from her? Applejack holds up a hoof, cutting the Princess of Friendship off as he spoke, "They're right. At least, you have some ponies to stick with you." "Yeah; to remember that you're not alone. You still have friends with you from far and wide." Pinkie exclaims happily, even though she's supposed to be in hiding. Starlight nodded, adding with a delightful chuckle, "And to keep you safe from them if they tried to be funny." "Girls..." Twilight sighed and then hugged her friends. "Thank you so much. Thank you for becoming my true, true friends..." "Hey, we always stick by your side, despite some bad times, and we're sticking to you like glue." "Except not so sticky to the point of sticking all over the stage of the Muppet Show," Pinkie exclaims with a grin, making the others chuckle at that. "If Rainbow's here, she would say random, Pinkie." Spike said to her friend, knowing that is true. "Is friendship that important?" Rogue asks, pondering as he scratched his chin with one hoof. "Beats me; But I do know that they really care for each other kinda like sisters." Saber said calmly, with a thoughtful smile. Despite the hard times, they really do care for each other. No one can break that bond. Blade Dragoon nodded, smiling as he added, "Yes... They do indeed." ---------------- Blade Dragoon informed Virtue's Wives that all of them are leaving. And so, they and others packed up their stuffs and put into the carriage. They all headed off to the south entrance of Xuchang Province, where the road will lead to Mystical Temple. Twilight and her friends have arrived at the southern entrance of Xuchang Province. They then spotted Anger and Blazefist stood before them. "What do you think you're doing?" Anger demanded more than he asked. "I'm accompanying them to the south. They're free to go." Twilight said calmly to Anger, despite the nasty grunt he gave to her. "Because his brother alive? Sorry to disappoint. I'm not letting you all off the hook." "Hang on! They got every right now." Applejack protests with an angry pout. "Twilight got the authority to do so." "Right, at least let us, you big dumb stupid head!" Nyx exclaims sternly. She yelps as Anger growls at her, "Uh, please?" "Wow. No wonder he's so stubborn." Pinkie mumbles to Saber in disbelief. Anger is stubborn, no matter what timeline that the group are in. Blazefist overheard her. He gave a cruel smirk while taunting, "Well, Pinkie Pie and Saber Dragoon, we need again. I'm impressed that wild animals like you able to evade the patrols. But not my Zuko; I knew you guys would try to get your friends out of here. Well, too bad, you're not going anywhere." "Blazefist, why do you have to be so meanie?! Can't you be more friendly like the future? He's really nice, and doesn't do nasty stuff especially talking bad about hippogriffs." "You're talking to the wrong Blazefist, brat. This Blazefist never ever forgive those monsters for killing my family, friends and clan! As long they're here, I'll wipe them out for good!" "Oh no...No wonder, Queen Novo and Skystar doesn't trust you so much; you really are Scourge of Hippogriffs." Pinkie protests with a frown on her face. That explains the reason Queen Novo and Skystar doesn't like him so much. This guy has a huge hatred for the Hippogriffs. "Sounds interesting; I'll deal with hippogriffs after I deal with you and traitors! Oracle Twilight and Blade Dragoon are not allowed to leave!" Blazefist charged and thrust his Falcon Spear at Pinkie, but deflected by Saber. They both departed at once. "Back off! That's no way to treat a lady!" Saber exclaims sternly to Blazefist, disgusted by the future Mystic Pony's assault on a lady. "You should know that you shouldn't trust them too much because they will let you down." Blazefist protests to Saber furiously. "Or maybe you're too suspicious, buddy; so, back off!" Blazefist and Saber charged and engaged with each other in a fierce duel. Blazefist swung his Falcon Spear at Saber, who blocked the attack with his Twin Dragon Sabers before kicked him off. Saber charged and readied to strike him down but grabbed and thrown to the ground hard. Blazefist tried to strike him down but Saber recovered by kicking and getting up. Both of them continued swinging their weapons at each other fiercely and determinedly for few rounds. Blazefist and Saber continued their fierce duel against each other nonstop for few rounds. And never before have they ever fight so hard yet interesting and wild in their lives like they were meant to fight till the end. Anger and Blade Dragoon glared at each other as they both armed and readied their weapons. Rogue stayed close to the carriage as he has to keep Virtue's wives safe. Twilight and her friends shouted and demanded their friends to stop fighting. "That is enough!" The familiar voice of Azure Phoenix roared out. He and Bladestrike have arrived at the scene. This caused everyone to stop, "What is going on?!" "Azure, these traitors tried to escape and regroup with Virtue!" Anger protested, pointing at the "traitors" in general. Blazefist nodded while adding, "So, we tried to stop them by any means of necessary! So, they won't be threat to us!" "Bullcrap," Nyx exclaims angrily. "Mommy has the authority to let Blade Dragoon and his allies to leave!" "Right! How dare you try to contradict a command by your lord?" Fluttershy snapped at Anger and Blazefist sternly. She then added meekly, "Uh, if you tell us why?" "Wow. Real good comeback," Starlight remarks to Fluttershy sarcastically. "I don't care if Oracle permitted them to leave because only Azure allows it!" Anger roared out furiously and sternly on his stance. After all, as long as Azure doesn't allow it, no one leaves.... But to the defiance ones' shock, Azure suddenly spoke, "And I agreed. They have my permission to leave." "Cousin!" "You're not serious!" Blazefist protests angrily, but backs off when Azure gives him a dark glare. "A deal is a deal. We both have upheld the bargain. If his brother is at Mystical Temple, they all are allowed to go. I will not stop you." Azure said calmly. After all, he gave his word, who is he to break it? "Thank you for being so calmly, lord." Blade Dragoon said, bowing to Azure calmly. "Right, thanks for at least being the reasonable authority, unless some meanie hippogriff bigoted creeps." Pinkie spoke out, giving a frown to Blazefist who grunts at this. "Just go." Azure said calmly, as if saying "leave now before I change my mind. "And Oracle..." Twilight can tell what is on her future mentor's mind. She hold up a hoof as she assured him, "Don't worry, Lord Azure. I keep my word that I will help you. Some of my friends remain with me for helping us to finish our mission." "Do as you please. I won't bother to say goodbye either. I have my own preparation to make. No doubt that fool will come and wage war again..." "I wish you well, Lord Azure..." Blade Dragoon said, preparing to take his leave now. Bladestrike bowed to his friends as he takes his own leave, "Well, my friends." "Right; I guess this will be the last time for a while." Applejack said as she hugs Twilight calmly. "Right, I'm sure we will see you again." Starlight said to her mentor/friend while hugging her too. "I'm sure you will come back." Twilight said, trying to keep herself from crying. "And tell Ben if you find him that I missed him so." "Right; we will make sure to do that." "Farewell." Fluttershy said, giving out some more hugs for the last time to the departing ones. It may be a while before her group sees them again. Blade Dragoon and his allies including Applejack, Pinkie, Starlight and Saber exited the entrance and marched straight to Mystical Temple. Twilight and her friends turned and returned to the office now. Anger and Blazefist remained behind to watch angrily at their enemies leaving the Xuchang Province. "What now?" Blazefist whispered to Anger calmly. "Do what must be done; Alert the rest. They cannot leave this place alive..." Anger spoke out quietly. Azure gave his word that Blade Dragoon and his allies are allowed to leave. But Blazefist AND Anger didn't. ---------- Blade Dragoon and his allies continued marching to the south. They all have arrived at the first gate, which was guarded by handsome grayish Earth Pony with grayish combed mane and short tail worn the Imperial Phoenix Armor stood and guard it, along with some of troops. Lieutenant spoke, "Hold it. What do you think you're doing?" "Going to the Mystical Temple; Let us pass." Blade Dragoon said calmly to the archer. "No can do, asshole. No one allow to go because you assholes can die in hell! And do you know why? Archer doesn't let assholes like you go because you're gonna be a big problem. And do you know why; because big problem is that-!" Blade Dragoon swung his Crescent Blue Dragon Blade in decapitating Archer's head off. This scared the ponies, AKA the Archer's men, off. "He talks too much..." Blade Dragoon said calmly to his group. "Wait, something ain't right here." Applejack said suspiciously. "These fellows looks like they don't want us to leave." "Hey, what gives? We are supposed to survive to the end of this series!" Pinkie protests, making her group rolls their eyes at her random comment. "She's right though. We are allowed to leave here. Azure said so." Starlight said, smelling something off from a mile away. "You don't think..." Rogue said in concern. What if Azure has went back on his word and demanded their deaths? Saber interrupts Rogue as he said, "Not Azure. He maybe a tyrant, but he'd never back off his word. This means Anger and Blazefist are behind of this." "So wait, why do those two went and did this behind Azure's back?" Starlight asks the two in concern. It does make sense that while Azure did keep his word, Anger and Blazefist aren't about to do so! "They see us a threat to their lord. They want to get rid of us before we could reunite our friends." "No matter the cost, we will reach our brother. I cannot be stop. We must move now!" Blade Dragoon exclaims, preparing to fight his way through these troops if he must. No one is going to keep him from his brother! "Right, we got friends to find and a message to give." Applejack said. Twilight wants Ben to tell him that she missed and the Element of Honesty will make sure he gets that message! "Time to rage war, ha ha ha," Pinkie laughs as she got her party cannon out, preparing for a fight. "Let's just hope other officers are very cooperative than this big-mouth." Starlight said, preparing for the worst. Blade Dragoon and his allies continued their march. They all have arrived at the second gate, which was guarded by a drunkard old Unicorn with oddly spiky mane and a young one with white mane. "I have the pass. Let us through!" Blade Dragoon calls out to the drunk Unicorn, preparing his sword for battle. Signalling the archers to come out and armed with their arrows, the old Unicorn blew raspberry as he taunts, "How about forget it? This old man doesn't give the shit! The old Sanchez wanna shoot at your ass!" Monty nodded, adding, "I'm afraid we can't let you go. You're too dangerous! Archers fired!" The archers fired their arrows at Blade Dragoon and his allies. Luckily, everyone managed to block the attacks with shields and swinging their poles and spears. Unfortunately, Blade Dragoon got hit by some arrows. Blade Dragoon dropped to the ground hard. Sanchez and Monty laughed as they all charged and attacked him. Unfortunately, they got blocked and killed by both Saber and Rogue. The soldiers panicked and escaped at once. Applejack and her friends approached and checked on Blade Dragoon. Applejack helped and treated Blade Dragoon's wounds. "Sugah cube, you okay?" Applejack asks, glancing at her friend's wound. "You need help?' "I'm fine. Just flesh wound. Thank you two." Blade Dragoon said with a sigh, nodding to Rogue and Saber. "I'm happy to help." Rogue said with an eager smile. "Yeah; we wouldn't you get killed when reuniting with brothers..." Saber said with a calm look on his face. Blade Dragoon smiled and nodded, speaking, "Indeed... We must continue our journey..." Blade Dragoon and his allies continued their march and headed to the south, where they arrived at the ruined of temple. They were welcomed by a dwarf orange Pegasus worn the minister robe and some monks. "Hello there. My name is Stewie. I welcome you all for hospitality. I see you all are tired." The dwarf said, glancing at the newcomers. "So wait, why is there a dwarf here?" Pinkie asks, glancing at Stewie curiously. "Did we end up in Disney?" "Doubt it." Starlight said, rolling her eyes, "Though his appearance here is a big concern." "Eeyup; Better watch your back." Applejack whispers to her friends, preparing for the worst if this ends up being trouble like the last two times. "Thank you. We shall accept it." Blade Dragoon said calmly. At least there is some friendly help, right? Stewie allowed and led Blade Dragoon and his friends into the temple. He cleared his throat, closing down the door. The monks removed their clothes as they all armed and readied their weapons. Stewie laughed, "My! Are you really that-?!" He gasped as he found Saber armed and aimed his Twin Dragoon Sabers at him, "Stupid?!" "I know you too well, Evil Stewie. And that was very poor attempt to ambush us! Go to hell!" Saber exclaims furiously at the one called Evil Stewie. If he thinks he could ambush the heroes, then this dwarf is a dead one! Stewie screamed as Saber decapitated his head off. He turned and screamed at the soldiers to panic and escaped at once. "Wait, how did you know this was a trap?" Applejack asks Saber in amazement. Saber calmly explains, "Temple is most obvious one since monks always clean it properly. And Stewie is also untrustworthy military officer, who tried to take over Azure Phoenix's empire for a lot of times." "Okay? Why would he keep him?" Rogue asks Saber, pondering why Azure would want Evil Stewie around despite what he did. Blade Dragoon answers, "He wants someone to get rid of him, without dirtying his hooves. And it's us. After all, Azure Phoenix doesn't like killing his officers unless they betray him." "Until today; And you know, every officer we met are kinda jerk and asshole. Sorry my language," Applejack remarks a bit, embarrassed for the swearing. "No problem. We're used to it." Saber said calmly to Applejack. "You aren't the first one to swear and you won't be the last one." "Just as long as we don't make it a habit," Pinkie spoke out seriously. "Cursing can be a big problem if used too much immaturely. "It matters little. We must continue our journey. My brother is waiting for us..." Blade Dragoon said as the group resumes their journey. ----------- In the late evening, Virtue Dragon and his crew (consisting of Dragonspear, Ben and Phobos) were riding their Dragon Steeds and heading straight to the Mystic Temple, which was located on distanced south from Xuchang Province. They have arrived at their destination. They sighed in exhaustion yet relieved. "My lord, we made it," Dragonspear said in relief. Virtue nodded, "Yes. Yes, we did. I can only hope that Blade get the message and meet us here." "I'm sure he'll get it, Lord Virtue. I just hope Twilight is coming back to us too," Ben said hopefully. Phobos scoffed a bit, "Or maybe stick with bad guys." Ben gave the glare at him. He yelped before whistled innocently, "I mean hopefully, not to stick with bad guys." "Either way, let us go in now. We'll camp and rest here," Virtue said calmly. Virtue and his allies were marching straight to Mystic Temple. While they were still riding their dragon steeds, they stopped at once before they heard a loud battle cry. They all got shocked and concerned. They all armed and readied to fight. They encountered couple of militia soldiers worn broken armors and vests, and even headbands around their heads. They were led by a young lighted green Pegasus with shorty black gentle mane and tail and her Cutie Mark is sparkling shield. She armed her both forked spear and giant shield as she's ready to fight. "Hold it right there, ruffians!" The young mare exclaimed firmly as she aimed her spear at Virtue, "You shall not pass!" "Stand down, young mare! We do not wish to fight!" Dragonspear pleaded firmly, "Let us pass." "No, I will not. Back off!" The young mare exclaimed firmly. The young mare screamed firmly as she charged and rammed her shield and forked spear at Virtue. Dragonspear jumped off from his dragon steed as he thrust his spear at her. She blocked it for the moment. She then deflected the attack off. They both then slammed and swung their spears at each other fiercely, and also blocked and dodged the attacks as well for few rounds. They then moved back before thrust and struck their spears at each other before passing by. They turned back and readied to engage each other again. They then have a clash for the moment. Her soldiers cheered wildly and happily to their leader to win the fight. Ben and Phobos cheered for Dragonspear. "Hey, what the hell is going on around?!" The tempered voice demanded angrily and annoyingly. Everyone stopped at once. They turned from the bushes. They found a familiar muscular bearded Pegasus with bad temper entered the scene. He demanded, "Can't this guy take a break?! Seriously?!" "WARPATH!" Virtue, Dragonspear, Ben and Phobos exclaimed in surprise. "Brother?!" Warpath asked in surprise. He then sobbed and cried tearfully as he charged and gave them a warm hug. He cried, "You're back! You're alive! Thank Mystic! I'm so happy that you're alive!" Virtue sighed while groaned in pain, "Me too. I'm glad you're alright!" "Father, you know them?!" Young mare asked suspiciously. Virtue and his allies were surprise. Warpath put his friends down. He smiled as he turned to his 'daughter', "Oh yes, I do. My little star! Virtue is your uncle, and the rest are my friends." He turned to his friends as he introduction to his daughter, "And this is my favorite twinkle star daughter - Sparkle Shield. She's adopted. Say hello to them, twinkle star." Sparkle Star nodded as she bowed down before Virtue and his allies, "It is an honor to meet you all. I'm sorry for attacking you. I thought you were working for Azure Phoenix." "It is alright. You were just protecting your home. That is all." Virtue said calmly. "Warpath, where're Rarity, Rainbow and Sunset? Are they alright?" Ben asked hopefully. Warpath shown sad and regret looks before looked down. He looked worry and concern, "No..." "I tried. I really tried. Sorry. I mess it up," Warpath apologized, "The river flow too fast for me to catch up. No telling where they end up to." Ben shook his head, "It's not your fault. You did your best. I just hope they're alive." "We will find them soon. I promised." Virtue said firmly, "For now, we need to make preparation." "For what?" Warpath asked curiously. "We're waiting for Blade Dragoon's return." "WHAT?! That traitor! Why do you want that traitor?! He left and abandoned us after Xu Province fallen for that jackass!" "Warpath. I don't believe Blade Dragoon really betray us. He's just working temporary for Lord Azure until he knows we're alive. We sent the messengers to notified about us. And he should be on his way to us now." "Yeah. He turn his back on us. I don't believe it." "Lord Warpath, I understand your anger and upset. But I assure you that Blade Dragoon has not forgotten about the oath he has sworn to." Dragonspear said calmly, "I believe he's coming home." "Yes, I also believed in him too." Virtue agreed. Warpath scoffed in anger, "Whatever. If he show up with Imperial Phoenix Army, I'm gonna kill him for good." "Wow. He's pissed." Phobos joked, "Maybe if I..." Ben was annoyed as he put a cloth in covering the Moon Dragon's mouth, "Why don't you shut your mouth for once?!" -------------------------------------------- Blade Dragoon and his team has arrived to another town, where they were greeted by a kindly old pony, who worn a minister's robe. They were now settling down in an inn for resting and sleeping. Blade Dragoon was reading his books. Rogue and Saber were training and sparring with each other for sword-fighting. Applejack made some dinner for her friends to eat. Pinkie sang happily and wildly. Starlight was looking out for Virtue's wives, making sure they're alright. And at the same time, a group of soldiers were surrounding couple of villages. They all armed with their weapons and torches as if they're ready to attack. Among them were led by the mayor's subordinates - Bullock and Hook. They have been ordered to burnt down the village to finish off the intruders. They both approached to an inn. They're both curios and wonder about the guests he was keeping. "Geez, Bullock, do you know who are the guests the mayor is keeping in?" Hook asked. "No idea. But we're about to find out," Bullock said calmly as he and his friend hid behind the walls. They took the peek through the window, where they found a familiar group they never expected to meet again. He gasped, "It's him?! He's here!" "Who?!" "Blade Dragoon! The warrior, who spared our lives and to make a better living!" "What?! Really?! He's really here?! He's the guest we're supposed to kill?!" "Oh Mystic's Sake! How could we?! He spared and saved our lives! We can't turn that debt away! We owe him!" "And we'd better help him now while we still can before it's too late!" "Then, let's do it." Both Bullock and Hook knocked the door, which Blade Dragoon allowed them in. As they entered the inn, they bowed down before him. They then looked at him firmly, which surprise everyone in. "Hey, you're the guys with Yellow Scarf Rebels!" Pinkie exclaimed in shock. "Former Yellow Scarf Rebels," Hook corrected. Bullock nodded, "It's an honor to meet you again, Lord Blade Dragoon!" "Bullock and Hook. It's good to meet you all again. I see you all are working for Chadzmuth. It seems you indeed have change for better. Well done," Blade Dragoon said calmly and proudly, "So, what brings you here?" "We came to warn you," Hook said in concern. Bullock nodded, "You're all need to get out of here now! Chazmuth is gonna set the fire on inn and kill you all!" Everyone was in shock and concern. He nodded in fear, "There's no time. We must go now!" "Understood. If you hadn't warn me in time, we would have been killed," Blade Dragoon said before bowed humbly, "Thank you, my friends." "It's an honor. But my lord, will you allow me and Hook to join you?" Bullock asked hopefully while bowing down. Hook nodded, "Yes. Ever since you saved and spared our lives, we've wished to repay the debt to you. Serving you is the least what we can do for that reward. Please let us join you." Blade Dragoon was having thoughts about declining their offers, but he knew that they risked everything to help him and his friends. He sighed, "Alright. I accept it. Guide us to escape as my first order." "Lord!" Bullock and Hook exclaimed. "You'd think we can trust them?" Applejack asked in concern. Starlight nodded, "Yeah. What if they're lying?" "They won't," Blade Dragoon said firmly, "I've witnessed their action and compassion. They're the ponies of honor and just. They can be trusted. We cannot wasted such talented and good ponies like them. We must leave now." Blade Dragoon and his allies have packed their stuffs, and even gotten the wives into the carriage. They all immediately leave the village at once. They also followed Bullock and Hook. His newly subordinates helped and guided to another exit, avoiding the ambush and traps made by Chadzmuth. They all managed to escape it. But they were being followed by Chadzmuth and his soldiers. As they were about to engage and take down the escapees, both Bullock and Hook turned back and attacked him at once. He swung and threw his flail with iron mace in lassoing the corrupted mayor's legs, before Hook charged and cut him down in pieces. The soldiers screamed in fear as they turned and escaped at once. On the next day, Blade Dragoon and his allies continued march and headed straight to Mystic Temple, hoping to reunite with Virtue and their friends. They then come across to another base, which was guarded by Weasel, who refused to let him and his allies in. Nevertheless, Blade Dragoon charged and swung his Blue Dragon Crescent Blade at him at ease. They then proceeded and headed straight to the temple now. -------------------------------------------- In the late afternoon, Blade Dragoon and his allies have arrived at their destination, where they found Virtue and his allies were waiting. And just before Virtue could do anything, Warpath held him back as if something bad is happening. Unknown to Blade Dragoon's team, they have been followed by Anger, Blazefist and some unit. Virtue and his friends were in shock and concern of what they just saw. Warpath huffed in anger, "So, he and assholes are really sided with Azure Phoenix." He drank the gourd for the moment before threw it away. He armed and readied his Forked Serpentine Spear-like, "Alright! You'd know, I've always wanted to fight you one time!" Blade Dragoon sighed, "Warpath, perhaps another time, my brother." Everyone was in shock and confused by his words. He turned to his friends, "Go now! I'll hold them off now!" Anger screamed, "Blade Dragoon, you're mine!" Anger screamed as he charged and attacked Blade Dragoon, who quickly blocked and deflected the attacks. He turned back as he swung his Blue Dragon Crescent Blade at Anger, who blocked the attack for the moment. They then resumed swinging and striking their blades at each other for few times. Applejack and her friends moved and guided the carriage to Virtue and his allies, who were in shock and confuse of what they just saw. Blade Dragoon was fighting against Anger, who was determined to bring him down. Blazefist and his soldiers were about to attack them, but they all got struck and knocked out by him. Blade Dragoon armed and readied to fight back. Anger, Blazefist and their soldiers gave their battle cry as they all charged and attacked Blade Dragoon, who blocked and dodged the attacks while swinging his blade at them at ease. Nevertheless, both officers continued their fierce assaults at him. They both continued swinging their blades at him, who struggled to block and hold his ground. He was being push down. He can't hold the attacks much longer. And just before they could land their final blow, they got blocked and pushed back by Bladestrike. "What the hell are you doing?!" Anger demanded. Blazefist nodded, "Get out of the way. We have to stop and kill him now!" "Stopping you from making mistakes," Bladestrike said firmly. Anger and Blazefist were annoyed. He continued, "Lord Azure also wished to talk with you for disobeying his order and went back on him." Anger and Blazefist groaned in anger as they gestured their soldiers turn and moved out. They all headed off and returned to Xuchang Province. Bladestrike sighed in relief that he has stopped the fight in time. "Bladestrike, thank you for your help again," Blade Dragoon said humbly. "It's the least I can do for what you have done for me. Now go and reunite with your brothers." Bladestrike said calmly. He turned and looked at his friend, "But the next time we meet, we will be enemies." Blade Dragoon nodded understandingly, "Yes, we will. Farewell, old friend." "Goodbye, old friend," Bladestrike said in calm voice. Bladestrike turned and headed off at once. Blade Dragoon turned and marched towards his allies. Virtue and his allies were in shock and confuse of what they just saw. The warrior bowed down humbly before his brothers. "Brother... At last... At last I have found you," Blade Dragoon said tearfully and happily. Virtue looked touched and happy. He continued, "My place is here, beside you, my lord and brother!" Virtue smiled as he helped Blade Dragoon to get up, "Welcome home, my brother." "Indeed. I knew you haven't forgotten your oath to him. You never will, right, Lord Warpath?" Dragonspear asked amusingly. Warpath yelped before laughed nervously as he quickly make some excuses, "I knew it! I knew it! Our brother would never betray us! Deep down, I've always knew that!" Everyone sighed in annoyance at Warpath's making excuses. Nevertheless, they all laughed happily and amusingly. Virtue and his allies chatted and have their moments. Ben and his friends did the same thing as well for they're reunited again. "Glad you're back with us," Ben said in relief. He then shown upset and worried, "She's not coming back?" Applejack sighed, "Sorry, Ben. She said she's staying back, hoping she can change Azure Phoenix's views that 'Friendship is Magic. But don't worry, Fluttershy, Nyx and Spike are with her. And that way, she won't forget about us or letting them tried to manipulate and tricked her to join them. And also, she said she's still missed and loved you, no matter what." "That's a relief," Ben said happily. "All we just have to do is that we prepare to fight back and win the war," Starlight said firmly. "Yeah! Azure Phoenix, watch out coz we're coming back to bite you!" Pinkie exclaimed proudly. Ben showed his firm and determined face, "Yeah. We definitely are..." END...