[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
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Chapter 24: Heroes of Changban
"A world of virtue, ruled by righteous. That was the goal that Skysoar Intellect put before Virtue Dragon." Narrator narrated, "However, with his current strength, such a world was but far-off dream. Although Skysoar Intellect's clever tactics allowed them to repel Azure Phoenix and his invasion, Virtue's future seemed grim indeed."
With the help of Skysoar Intellect's tactic and strategies, Virtue Dragon and his army have defeated and repelled Azure Phoenix's vanguards. While all of them were celebrating for their first victory, Virtue Dragon was visited by a messenger from Jing Province's palace. The message he received has shocked him off. Something bad has happen to his friend.
"Following Sozin's death, his successor - Potter surrendered to Azure Phoenix. However, Azure Phoenix did not let his guard down, and continued to advance his army on Jing."
After the death of his father, Potter has agreed to send his messengers to Azure Phoenix at Xuchang Palace for surrendering to him. The young lord wanted to avoid fighting with the powerful warlord from Northern Ma. Though he was pleased and happy that his enemy has surrendered to him, Azure Phoenix refused to stop and continued advancing and conquering most of Jing Province.
"The ponies of Jing trembled in fear before him. Without a doubt, Virtue Dragon would feel pity for the ponies and taken all of the ponies from Jing with him. His virtue served as beacon for downtrodden. With nothing left to fight for, Virtue Dragon fled from Azure Phoenix's army and headed south."
Hearing the news about their Lord of Jing Province has surrendered to Azure Phoenix, the ponies and peasants panicked and screamed for they feared that they would be subjugated and terrorized by Azure Phoenix. Worried for their safety, Virtue has decided to take and bring the peasants with him. He was leading his army and peasants to the south, hopefully, they can escaped their enemies.
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"This time, Azure Phoenix is determined to put an end of meddling Virtue Dragon, and finally realize his ambition. To an end, he would go to any length necessary. Azure Phoenix gave ordered Bladestrike and his vanguards to give pursuit. For it was now that the Hero of Chaos was about to transform into something less heroic..."
After receiving a warm welcome by Potter, his mother and his surrendered officials, the Imperial Phoenix Army marched and entered the Jing Province's Palace. Azure Phoenix and most of his advisors and officers were inside the throne chamber. Twilight and most of her friends were among them as well. The warlord is now sitting down on his throne chair as he was glaring at Potter and his officials.
"Even though you have chosen to surrender to me, you failed to capture Virtue Dragon." Azure Phoenix asked dryly and darkly. It frightened Potter and his officials to nod fearfully. He narrowed his eyes while glaring at him, "You bring shame to your own family. Strict Stalker! Execute Potter and his mother for betraying their own honor and failures!"
Strict Stalker nodded firmly, "At once!"
Potter and his mother gasped and bowed frantically, "No! No, my lord! Please, spare us! I beg of you! Don't kill me! Please don't kill me!"
Strict Stalker has his Dragon Guards to take and drag Potter and his mother out of the palace for execution. Twilight and her friends remained silent yet worried and scared as there was nothing they can do about it.
"As the old saying, 'if you want something done, you have to do it by yourself.' It looks like I have to take care of Virtue Dragon by myself..." Azure Phoenix said dryly and darkly. He turned to Ratio, "Master Ratio, what do you think he would do next now?"
Master Ratio bowed humbly before his master, "My lord, if I suspect correctly, he's heading straight to River Guardian Fortress. Because that fortress possessed strong and rich supplies of resources, foods and even money. If he succeed reaching and conquering that fortress, he will no doubt to turn the tide and fight back. We must either capture him alive or dead."
Woren nodded firmly, "Master Ratio is right. We must dispose of Virtue Dragon, once and for all. We cannot let him wander off and resist us much longer.
Azure Phoenix hummed firmly as he nodded in agreement, "You are right, my old friends. Anger! Axen! Bladestrike! Bullhound! Clawdestroyer! Blazefist! Laxtinct! Fluttershy! Silverstream! Gallus!" All of the officers emerged from their lane. They all reported and bowed firmly before their warlord. He continued, "Virtue Dragon must be killed! Cut down any who impede you including Valorheart and his team!"
"WHAT?!" Twilight and her friends asked in shock and concern.
"No way!" Gallus and Silverstream protested.
"Lord Azure! We have the agreement!" Twilight exclaimed in anger, "You promised me that you will not harm my friends! Because if you do, I won't provide you any more advice or helping you to unify this land!"
Spike nodded, "Yeah! You can't turn back on our deal!"
"Your deal matters little to me..." Azure Phoenix said dryly and darkly, shocking Twilight and her friends. He continued, "I have allowed Virtue Dragon and his resistance wander off for too long. I've been patient and mercy for far too long. It's time we end this! Once and for all."
"But my lord, what about those peasants?" Bullhound asked in concern.
Axen nodded in agreement and concern, "To attack them would be dishonorable! I beg of you, my lord, reconsider about your order!"
"They are right, my lord," Bladestrike said firmly, "There must be another way to defeat and kill Virtue Dragon, without harming the peasants."
Blazefist nodded and bowed humbly, "Please, my lord! Reconsider the order!"
"Are you questioning my order?!" Azure Phoenix said darkly, shocking his officers. He continued, "They have chosen to side with him of their own free will. Therefore, they are our enemy. Soldier or peasant, it matters not."
"Cousin..." Anger asked in shock and concern.
"He's dead serious..." Laxtinct said in fear and worry.
Clawdestroyer hummed and nodded in concern, "Yes. We have no choice now..."
"Do not forget - you all are my blade. I choose who you cut, and whose blood will stain you." Azure Phoenix said darkly. He turned and glared at Twilight and her friends. He unsheathed his Imperial Phoenix Sword while levitated both Nyx and Spike. He placed their swords against their throats, shocked and scared them off. He narrowed his hateful and raging eyes, "If you refused to follow the order, then they will die. Unless you can convince your friends and Virtue Dragon surrender to me, there will be no mercy. Failure is not an option, or there will be consequence! Understand?!"
Twilight and her friends were in shock and scared as they have never seen and face Azure Phoenix's temper in their lives. With Nyx and Spike being held hostages, they have no choice but to obey him now. They all nodded reluctantly and fearfully. He levitated and thrown both Spike and Nyx into obsidian cage-like, preventing them using their magic now.
Nyx sniffled tearfully while glaring at Azure Phoenix, "You... You really are a monster! I hate you so much!"
Spike nodded angrily, "I hope you're proud of it because nopony will ever see you as a hero now..."
"I told you before. Those words means nothing to me. I rather betray the world, than let the world betray me," Azure Phoenix said darkly. He turned and glared at Twilight, "I hope you do not betray my trust or you will regret it..." Twilight was in traumatized and heartbroken by how cruel and ruthless he has become. He turned and glared at his army, "Imperial Phoenix Army, march out and take down the rebels now!"
"LORD!" Imperial Phoenix Officers exclaimed while bowed down firmly.
Azure Phoenix and his Imperial Phoenix Officials walked out and left the throne chamber, leaving Twilight alone. They even moved the cage of Nyx and Spike to dungeon as well. She dropped to her knees as she cried tearfully and frantically. She can't believe that the past version of her mentor has turned into a ruthless and cruel villain now. She feared that Ben and his team may not survive this new onslaught now...
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Azure Phoenix has massed his massive army of Imperial Phoenix Army, at least 100,000 Soldiers. He's now leading his army out of Jing Province Palace. They're all now marching and chasing after Virtue Dragon and his resistance forces. They're now at the Changban Area. The vanguard force was led by Anger, Bladestrike, Clawdestroyer, Bladefist, Laxtinct, Gallus and Silverstream. Both Bullhound and Axen remained on the middle position of army. They're protecting Azure Phoenix from danger. All of them were still marching across the terrain while searching and hunting down Virtue Dragon and his resistance.
An Imperial Phoenix Griffon Scout has arrived and bowed before the vanguard commanders. He reported firmly, "My lord! We have sighted the enemy rearguard!"
"Virtue Dragon is fleeing to the south, with the peasants of Jing Province." Clawdestroyer said firmly, "We must fly after him!"
Anger sighed, "Yes. This is it, everyone. No matter what happens, Virtue Dragon must die today!"
"I don't really like this..." Laxtinct said in disgust.
Blazefist sighed, "Believe me, Lax. I don't like it too. But order is order. We must complete it, regardless of peasant casualties..."
"Yes, it is time for me to take to the battlefield." Bladestrike said firmly, "Remember, all. We must bring Virtue Dragon to justice, no matter the cost!"
"Good. Very good..." Azure Phoenix said firmly and calmly, "Remember, you must show no mercy in this battle. You all are our lo blade of ruthlessness..."
Anger nodded firmly, "Yes, cousin. Imperial Phoenix Army! CHARGE!"
Imperial Phoenix Army gave a loud battle cry. They all charged out to the battlefield of Changban. They all were heading straight to the rearguard units, who were covering the peasants' retreat from behind. Virtue Dragon's soldiers and peasants got panicked and screamed in fear and shock upon looking at the Imperial Phoenix Army charging at them. The blue armored army attacked and slaughtered both soldiers
and peasants in sights until they found and killed Virtue Dragon. Anger and his colleagues, disgusted and angered of slaughtering innocent peasants, were reluctant and forced to carry on their duty.
Fluttershy, Gallus and Silverstream were disgusted and hated for killing the innocents. Though they have defeated and repelled the soldiers, they couldn't bring themselves up to finish off the peasants. The peasants quickly make their escape at once, though some got injured and killed by another unit.
"T-This is cruel. It's too much! I can't do it!" Silverstream said tearfully and shamefully, "I can't kill them. They're innocents. This is almost like Storm King's attacking and slaughtering the Hippogriff."
Gallus sighed, "I don't like it too, Silverstream too. But if we don't do it now, we're screwed."
"This is war, after all," Fluttershy said in guilt, "Maybe us staying here in this group wasn't good idea at all. If we're not here, Twilight can easily defy Azure Phoenix. But now, there's nothing we can do about it. This is a mistake."
"Yeah. I can't imagine how heartbroken and sad Headmare Twilight feels now," Silverstream said in shock and worry.
"Probably the worst," Gallus said in concern.
"Believe me. I don't like it too," Laxtinct agreed in concern. Fluttershy and her team glared at him. He groaned, "I mean it. I hated it a lot! Okay?!"
Axen sighed, "No mercy. Even to mere peasants... I fear this battle will be bloody one."
"We are our lord's messengers." Bladestrike said firmly as he came to the conversation, "We are to let the world know that all who oppose him will meet with death! Regardless of the cost, we must complete our mission! No more excuses and delays! Find and kill Virtue Dragon now!"
Everyone including Fluttershy's reluctant team nodded firmly as they continued their mission. This will be the bloodiest battle Fluttershy and her team to experience now.
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"And Virtue Dragon, too, refused to give up on his comrades, who dreamed like he did of a world of peace. Slow down by ponies, Virtue Dragon's army was finally caught by Azure Phoenix at Changban. Was the world of virtue destined to end as a dream before the overwhelming might of Azure Phoenix's Army. Virtue Dragon, his allies and ponies themselves were about to be tested..."
Virtue Dragon, Skysoar, Blade Dragoon and most of soldiers and peasants have managed to cross the Changban Bridge now. However, the rest from rearguard were attacked by Imperial Phoenix Army. They
got scattered while screaming and panicking for their lives. And at the same time, they're trying to get to the bridge. Warpath, Dragonspear, Ben and his team remained behind as they horribly watched both soldiers and innocents get slaughtered by the Imperial Phoenix Army.
"T-This is horrible..." Saber said in shock and concern.
"I can't believe it," Starlight said in shock and concern, "Azure's has really gone too far! He's worse as Tirek and Storm King."
"All this is to get Virtue Dragon..." Pinkie said in concern. She groaned, "Twilight and others must be feeling bad and upset about this."
"Yeah... I can't imagine of how much more Twilight can take Azure's cruelty..." Applejack said in concern, "She must be in pain and heartbroken now."
"We have to find and get Twilight and others back now," Ben said firmly as he tightened his grip on Master Sword. He looked up and glared at Imperial Phoenix Soldiers attacking and slaughtering the innocents. He narrowed his angry eyes, "I won't let her stay there much longer."
Sandbar nodded fearfully, "If only this is easy."
"Help! The handmaiden cried in fear as she came towards Dragonspear and his group. She cried, "Lord Virtue's family and son! They've been left behind!"
"What?" Everyone asked in shock and concern.
Phobos groaned, "How many times must they get left behind?! This is so frustrating!"
"Leave it to me." Dragonspear said firmly to handmaiden, "I will bring them to safety. You must keep moving!"
The handmaiden nodded fearfully as she quickly headed off at once. Dragonspear and his group suddenly got surrounded by Imperial Phoenix Soldiers. They all prepared to attack the team now. The enemy troops charged and attacked them. But they all easily get swung off by Warpath's swing.
"Leave these guys to me, boy!" Warpath shouted firmly.
"Alright!" Dragonspear said firmly. He turned to Ben's team, "Ben! Saber! Applejack! Sandbar! Come with me! Starlight and Phobos, get back to our lord, and keep him safe! Smolder and Pinkie, helped Warpath! We must escape this place alive!"
Ben's Team nodded and shouted, "Got it!"
Starlight and Phobos turned and cross the bridge as they're heading and meeting up with Virtue and his allies. Warpath, Twinkle Star, Smolder, Pinkie and 20 brave Dragon Soldiers remained behind to guard the bridge and hold off the enemy troops. They're also covering the peasants' escape. Dragonspear and his team (Ben, Saber, Applejack and Sandbar) headed off to find and rescue Virtue's family as they're now charging through the large army of Imperial Phoenix, who were standing in their way. Dragonspear's team must find and get to the family before the enemy does.
This will be the team's greatest challenge they ever face now...
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After Azure Phoenix has led his Imperial Phoenix in pursuit of Virtue Dragon and his army, Twilight was locked up inside her private chamber by his order. She is not allowed to leave her chamber or even visit anyone else especially her friends.
Ever since her defiance and protests against Azure Phoenix's order, the Lord of Imperial Phoenix Army has declared her command over politics and military has been relinquished. Twilight can do nothing but watch and hear the reports.
The door was knocked as the soldier entered and bowed before her. She refused to look at him. Twilight was staring and looking at the window.
"Oracle Twilight, I came to report you. Our forces have caught up with the enemies." The soldier explains. Twilight remained silent. "As we speak, they still searching and hunting Virtue Dragon down. And there is no sign of your friends on the battlefield."
Twilight remained silent again, or refused to turn her head to him either.
Imperial Phoenix Soldier sighed, "Lady Oracle, I'm truly sorry. I really am."
Imperial Phoenix Soldier turned and left the chamber at once. Twilight sobbed and cried tearfully.
Twilight hissed, "How could this have happen?"
Twilight looked at the window. She wondered of how her friends on both sides. She prayed and hoped they're alright. She also hoped that Azure Phoenix stopped his cruelty and ruthless.
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Some villages and towns of Jing Province were enjoying their moment of peace. Suddenly, some soldiers from Virtue Dragon's Army has arrived as they warned and ordered the ponies to pack up their stuffs and leave their home behind.
Chorus: Since you broke your promise to me
(Since you broke your promise to me)
The Land of Ma is in Hell...
Unfortunately, the Imperial Phoenix Army have arrived at the city and village. It has shocked both soldiers and innocents to see them.
Chorus: I send the army of demons
Through the land, through the city
Through your street, through your home
Imperial Phoenix Army charged and began slaughtering on both soldiers and innocent ponies, spilling some blood on the walls and floors. This has shocked and traumatized mares, foals and elders, who were running away for their lives.
Chorus: Begin the hunt, and begin the kill
All the soldiers, all the innocents
Their blood spilled in your field Into your dreams, into your sleep
Until you break, until you yield
Azure Phoenix, Bullhound and Axen have arrived at the blazing and ruins of village. The Lord of Imperial Phoenix narrowed his eyes into firm and angry as he shown no remorse and concern over the dead ponies.
Chorus: I send the horde, I send the death
Thus saith the Mystic
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Twilight hissed in anger. She quickly wrote the letter as fast as she can. She passed it to Imperial Phoenix Messenger and ordered him to deliver it to Azure Phoenix. He nodded and headed off at once.
Twilight: Once I called you friend
Once I thought the chance to make you smile
Was all I ever wanted...
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Anger, Bladestrike, Clawdestroyer, Blazefist and Laxtinct continued leading the army to charge and slaughter anyone that stand in their way, without mercy or remorse. Fluttershy, Gallus and Silverstream reluctant and hesitated to do so, allowing the peasants and soldiers to flee in fear.
Chorus: I send the dragons from the sky
I send the fire raining down
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Dragonspear was leading his team of Saber, Ben, Applejack and Sandbar to find and rescue Virtue Dragon's family. They charged and pierce through the enemy's front line.
Twilight: And even now I have hope that you will change
Proving there is good and kindness in you
But you have proven me wrong...
The team come across the large army of archers, who armed and aimed at them. They released and fired their arrows upon them. Luckily, Dragonspear's team dodged and evaded the attacks while charging straight at the enemies.
Chorus: I send a hail of burning arrows
On ev'ry field, on ev'ry town
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Twilight: This is my nightmare
All this pain and devastation
How it tortures me inside
All the innocent who suffer
From your ruthless and cruelty...
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Warpath remained firm and strong as he was still standing on the Changban Bridge. Twinkle Star, Smolder, Pinkie and 20 brave Dragon Soldiers were hiding behind the forests while watching the event.
Peasants ran as fast as they can while crossing the Changban Bridge. Virtue Dragon's soldiers also help them as well.
Chorus: I send the war beasts on the wind
Such as the world has never seen
On ev'ry soldier, on ev'ry innocent
Until there's nothing left of them to be alive
Warpath's Team spotted the large army are on their way to Changban Bridge. This scared Pinkie and some soldiers. The peasants and soldiers screamed and panicked in fear as they make run for their lives.
Chorus: I send my scourge, I send my sword
Thus saith the Mystic!
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Blade Dragoon and his team were preparing and setting the ships and boats. They helped and moved peasants and soldiers into ship. Virtue, Skysoar, Master Cooler and Lady Marvel were there to help them get into the ships.
Twilight: You who I called friend
Why must you slaughter these poor souls ?
Chorus: I send my scourge, I send my sword
Starlight and Phobos have arrived and reported to Virtue and his allies about Azure Phoenix's coming to them soon. This made the benevolent lord uneasy and worried
Twilight: Let those souls go
Chorus: This saith the Lord
Twilight and Chorus: Thus saith the Lord
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While waiting and watching the battlefield on the small hill, Azure Phoenix received the letter from Imperial Phoenix Messenger. Once he read it, he got furious and anger. He tore it to pieces. Everyone looked scared and worried about him.
Azure Phoenix: You who I called friend
How could you have come to turn on me so?
I thought you understand me!
Chorus: I send the horde, I send the death...
Azure Phoenix turned and glare at any soldier and peasant that his soldiers have captured and bring them before he. He interrogated them of where Virtue Dragon. And when they refused, he ordered their execution at once.
Azure Phoenix: Then let my heart be hardened
And never mind how high the cost may grow
My ambition will be realized!
I will never let those souls go...
Chorus: Thus saith the Mystic
Twilight: Thus saith the Mystic
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Azure Phoenix continued ordering and leading his army to find and kill everyone until he finds and capture or kill Virtue Dragon, regardless Twilight's pleading.
Azure Phoenix: I will not...
Twilight, Azure Phoenix and Chorus: Let those souls go!
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At the small village, the soldiers were guiding and protecting Virtue Dragon's family - one was an older yellow unicorn with light green long mane and tail with lighter blue and pink streaks - Lady Dragon, another was a younger blue Earth Pony with dark pink mane with magenta and red streaks. - Lady Hope Both of them were wearing messy yet torn formal Chinese Imperial Dresses while holding a baby with them.
As the group were doing their best to escape, a small unit of Imperial Phoenix Soldiers have arrived and attacked them. One of them killed the Lady Dragon.
Lady Hope gasped, "SISTER!"
One of Virtue Dragon's Soldiers calls out in alarm, "My lady, we must move now!"
Virtue Dragon's Soldiers helped and moved Lady Hope and her son to safety zone. They did their best to protect their lady from danger. Anger, Clawdestroyer and Gallus have arrived at the scene
Anger looked up and found Lady Hope and her baby. He spoke up, "That must be Virtue Dragon's wife and son! I want them captured alive."
Clawdestroyer nodded as he added, "At once. Gallus, follow me!"
Gallus groaned, "First the innocents, and now the family. Can't you guys stop being bad guys?!"
Clawdestroyer held Gallus against the walls. He snaps, "Listen to me, Corporal. I am not thrilled and happy of doing this! But if we want to bring peace to our land, we must sacrificed our honor and compassion to do so. But if you refused to do so, Lord Azure will not be merciful and caring to spare your friends! Understand?!"
"Understand."
"Now,follow me and get that baby!"
Clawdestroyer and Gallus chased after Virtue Dragon's family. They both killed the soldiers. They both surrounded and cornered them to the well. Both Lady Hope and her son were trapped.
"Surrender now, Lady Hope. You and your son will be spared." Clawdestroyer demanded more than he asked.
Lady Hope shook her head, protesting, "Never!"
"Lady. Please, don't do something stupid. Look around you! You're surrounded and got trapped! Please, surrender now!" Gallus pleads in worry. Lady Hope should at least listen to reason and give up because these guys are ruthless monsters!
"Why should I listen to monsters like you?!"
"I'm trying to save you! Please! Don't do something stupid."
"Gallus! Get the baby now!" Anger demanded angrily. Gallus looks horrified. Anger is asking the unthinkable here!
"But sir," Gallus protests to Anger in worry, knowing the consequences if he even dares to refuse an order.
"That's an order! Kill that mare now! And get the baby!"
Gallus screamed and cried tearfully, "I can't! I don't want to kill a family. It's not right! I don't want to take children away from them! I don't them to be orphan!"
Lady Hope was in shock and surprise of what she has heard.
Anger kicked Gallus aside, screaming in fury, "Useless Griffon! I don't know what my cousin see in you! I'll have to do it by myself."
"You will not harm my lady!" A familiar voice spoke from out of nowhere.
Anger got his left side of chest speared and thrown to the walls. And at the same time, Dragonspear kicked Clawdestroyer into blazing house. Imperial Phoenix Soldier yelped in shock and concern of what they just saw. Dragonspear's Team have arrived and attacked them.
Dragonspear swiftly swung his spear in knocking and killing them one-by-one. Applejack punched and kicked them off. Ben swung his Master Sword in killing them. Sandbar helped protecting Lady Hope and her son. They have defeated the soldiers.
Applejack approached and helped Gallus. She spoke up, "Gallus, are you alright?"
Gallus grunted, "I'm fine, Professor Applejack." He turned and looked at Lady Hope. "Look, lady. I'm sorry. I'd never wanted this. I'd never do. But I have no choice."
Lady Hope sighed, "It's okay. But thank you for not taking my son."
"Gallus, what's going on?! What happen to Twilight?! Didn't she stop Azure from doing this?!" Ben demanded to Gallus in alarm. He was hoping Twilight would at least try to stop Azure from this madness. She made him promise!
Gallus sighed, "She did. Azure hold hostage of Spike and Nyx! He threatened all of us if we don't do the job. Twilight got locked up and she can't do anything now."
"That son of a bitch; Killing innocents, doing blackmail and hostage; and for what?! Bringing peace to the land?! This is chaos and war! He is no better than his emperor and any of the enemies we thought. He should've died out a long time ago for that treachery!"
"Frankly, I got no idea why he is even a Mystic Pony to begin with." Applejack said in agreement, leaving the past ones confused, "Uh, no time to explain."
Dragonspear decided it's best to ignore the comment for now as he focuses on the task at hoof here. He spoke up, "There is nothing we can do. We must leave this place now." The pony turned to Lady Hope as he continues, "My Lady, we'll get you to safety now."
Lady Hope nodded, speaking, "Whatever happens to me, you must keep my son safe. He must reached his father, at all cost!"
"I will, my lady. You have my word that I will take you and young lord to Lord Virtue Dragon. I promised." The hero didn't waste time as he whistled, "White Horse!""
White Speed Dragon has arrived and stood before his master. And just before anyone could do anything, an Imperial Phoenix Soldier has arrived and thrust spear at Lady Hope. Luckily, Ben swung his Master Sword in cutting it in two before slashed on him.
Saber gasped, "Here they come!"
Gallus hissed as he jumped and attacked Sandbar, "Sandbar! Hit me!"
"What," Sandbar yelped in shock, wondering if he heard right.
"Hit me! Make it like we're fighting; the only way to help our friends!"
Sandbar nodded in understanding before screamed in anger and attacked Gallus. Both of them punched and kicked at each other wildly and firmly.
Ben hissed, "Hold them off!"
Saber, Applejack and Ben charged and attacked the soldiers. Dragonspear held the baby close to him as he used his spear to block and fend off the invader, He turned and looked at Lady Hope.
"Lady Hope, get on the dragon steed!" Dragonspear spoke out to Lady Hope, motioning him to the Dragon.
Dragonspear and his team struggled and did their best to hold off the Imperial Phoenix Soldiers. Lady Hope struggled to get on the White Horse's back. Suddenly, one of the soldiers charged and swung his sword on her back, making her yelped in pain.
Dragonspear gasped, "Lady Hope!"
Dragonspear charged to Lady Hope's aid. He rammed the first soldier before kicked the second one off. And just before he could help her out, he got his back stabbed. Saber arrived as he decapitated the soldier's head.
Dragonspear grunted in pain as he pulled out the spear. Despite the injury he suffered, he fought hard to protect both Lady Hope and her son. Saber, Ben and Applejack fought bravely to fend off the invaders. Sandbar and Gallus punched each other as hard as they can give.
Despite the effort Dragonspear's Team has put up with, more of Imperial Phoenix soldiers were charging and attacking them.
Lady Hope became more worry and scared as she's more concern the safety of her son's welfare and need him to reach to his father. She can't bear them her burden. She found the well behind her. She realized to save them and her son, she must make ultimate sacrifice. She quickly jumped into the well.
Saber gasped, "Adopted Mother!"
Saber charged while pushing and knocking the soldiers off. He jumped and quickly grabbed her dress, holding Lady Hope in midair of falling within the well.
Saber grunted and struggled to pull her out. The gown torn out, letting her fall into the well's water. He was in deep shock and pain to see her.
Dragonspear's Team have managed to defeat and kill all of Imperial Phoenix Soldiers. They regrouped. They then found Saber's crying tearfully and he shown the small piece of gown's.
Saber hissed, "I'm sorry..."
Dragonspear sighed, "Damn it. Lady Hope sacrificed herself to save us. Damn it."
"What's next?" Ben asks, wondering what now.
"We have to get back to our friends now. We have to get out of here." Saber sighed in sadness. Lady Hope wouldn't want them to mourn at the moment, they got to leave now.
"Gallus, come with us now. This is your chance!" Sandbar exclaims to Gallus in concern.
"He's right. You don't need to continue helping those vermints." Applejack said in agreement with her student. "Azure has gone too far now. You got to get out of there."
"At least listen to reason. Twilight can find a way out of there!"
Gallus sighed, "I want nothing more but to get out of here. But Headmare Twilight and Silverstream need me now. I'm sorry."
Dragonspear sighed, "We understand."
"Anyway, I need to make it convince that I got beaten badly."
"Ready?" Applejack ask in sadness. Gallus nodded firmly. Applejack punched on his face hard, making him unconscious and dropped to the ground hard. "I hope I didn't hit him too hard."
"He'll be fine. But let's get out of here now." Sandbar said, cringing at the sight of his friend. He hates to abandon him but Gallus insisted.
Ben nodded while speaking, "Yeah. More will be coming soon."
Dragonspear nodded. He took down the Dragon Flag. He wrapped around the baby against his chest like using a baby holder for the lord's son.
Dragonspear spoke, "Everyone, ready?"
"Yeah, as ever," Saber said, slowly nodding.
"We better leave now." Ben said, knowing it may not be long before more of Azure's soldiers arrive.
Dragonspear looked at the baby as he speaks, "Don't worry, I will keep you safe, little one. I swear it on my life. Let's go!"
Dragonspear got on his Speed Dragon Steed. Ben, Applejack, Saber and Sandbar got on their Dragon Steeds. They all trotted off at once.
Anger grunted in pain as he removed the spear and dropped to the ground. Clawdestroyer screamed in pain as he came out from the blazing house. Gallus grunted in pain as he got up.
"Where are they?!" Anger demanded furiously. He came close to killing Lady Hope and getting that baby and now, he has been taken down!
Gallus grunted in pain, "They got away. They hurt me a lot."
Clawdestroyer groaned, "We have to go after them."
Anger nodded as he spoke, "We will." The villain turned to Gallus to issue the next command, "Send word to our lord now!"
Gallus nodded reluctantly as he flapped and flew off to the main unit of Imperial Phoenix Army.
---------------------------
Dragonspear's Team were riding their dragon steeds as fast as they can on the long road. They have to reach to the Changban Bridge. However, they arrived at the large army of Imperial Phoenix's rearguard.
"Oh horse feathers!" Applejack groans out in disbelief. "This isn't just our day. I knew it wouldn't take long for this to happen."
"What now?" Sandbar asks in worry. "These guys got us outnumbered."
Dragonspear narrowed her eyes firmly while holding tight on the baby. With a stern tone, he said, "No matter the cost, we must reach our lord; to battle!"
Ben gasped, "Dragonspear, no! We have to go around it!"
Dragonspear gave a battle cry as he nudged his dragon steed and trotted straight to the rearguard.
Saber sighed, "Father wasn't kidding about him being bravest and fierce warrior as a dragon!"
"Yeah, well, there's a difference between bravery and being a darn foal." Applejack said, shaking her head in disbelief by Dragonspear's reckless and foolish action.
"And he isn't going to himself and the kid good at this rate!" Sandbar exclaims, recalling that he still got the kid with him.
"We have to help him. He's gonna put himself and the baby in danger!" Ben exclaims quickly in concern.
"And get ourselves killed; Crazy, vice-head stallion, crazy!"
"Well, we better do something!"
Axen spotted Dragonspear's Team charging at the army's rearguard.
"It must be them! Shields and Spears up! Archers, arm your arrows now! Target the enemies now!" Axen gave order to his army. Today, Azure will win!
As ordered, the Imperial Phoenix Archers armed their bows and arrows. Imperial Phoenix Guards armed with shields and spears for battle. They aimed and fired at Dragonspear, who swung and deflect the arrows at once. However, the arrows have halted Ben and his team.
"Dragonspear, get out of there!" Applejack calls out to Axen in protest. "You're going to get yourself killed!"
"Right, think about your life and the baby!" Ben exclaims in agreement. "And Virtue's reaction at least!"
Dragonspear ignored their concerns and warnings. He nudged his Speed Dragon to charge and jump over the shield units while slamming on three to five soldiers to death. While riding and charging straight to Changban Bridge, his dragon steed rammed most of soldiers while he swung and thrust his spear at them one-by-one.
Axen grunted, "Stop him!"
Axen led the rearguard and dragon cavalry to charge and chase after Dragonspear, who retaliated and fought back very fierce and determined while holding baby close to his chest. Despite his bravery of fighting the enemies off, more Imperial Phoenix Soldiers and Cavalry came and surrounded him, preventing him from escaping and trying to take him down. Axen also attacking and engaging with young warrior. Nevertheless, Dragonspear refused to give up and continued fighting back.
"Well, say what you will about him, that is one brave past pony." Sandbar said impressed. "I just wish the others are here to see this."
"I just wish he wasn't so foolish to boot." Ben said to Sandbar as he shakes his head.
Azure Phoenix, who was very focused on hunting down Virtue Dragon, has heard the noise from behind. He turned and looked behind. Accompany him were Bladestrike, Blazefist, Laxtinct, Bullhound, Fluttershy and Silverstream. They saw Dragonspear fighting off the enemies from the rear.
Axen battled and engaged with Dragonspear fiercely and firmly. Axen slammed his axe on Dragonspear's head, but blocked and pushed back. They both swung and clashed their axe and spear at each other for few times. They then clashed and held each other's weapons for the moment. Dragonspear pulled and dragged Axen's towards him for him to give the latter a headbutt. He then has his Speed Dragon to ram Axen's Iron Earth Dragon.
"Who is that warrior?” Azure asks in amazement, despite the fact that Dragonspear is on the other side.
Anger, Gallus and Clawdestroyer have arrived and regrouped with the main unit. The one-eyed warrior spotted Dragonspear fighting off Axen.
Anger gasped, "Cousin! That's the same pony, who attacked my unit! He's the one, has Virtue Dragon's son!"
Azure Phoenix narrowed his eyes, demanding, "Identify that warrior."
"Warrior! Who are you?!"
Dragonspear turned and glared at Azure Phoenix. He screams out in fury, "I am Dragonspear of Mount Fang!"
Dragonspear's battle cry has echoed to the Imperial Phoenix Army, and even Azure Phoenix.
"Such ferocity and prowess; Anger, I want him alive. Don't shoot him down." Azure said calmly to Anger,
much to his surprise.
"But Dragonspear is too loyal to Virtue Dragon. He won't surrender." Fluttershy whimpers to Azure. She knows that Dragonspear will never betray Virtue Dragon.
"I will make him."
"Understood," Anger said, nodding. Azure wants Dragonspear, so who is he to oppose? "All units, take him down! Capture him alive!"
Anger, Bladestrike, Blazefist, Laxtinct and Clawdestroyer led their units and charged to the battlefield. Dragonspear was still battling with Axen. They both clashed for the moment. Clawdestroyer screeched wildly as he flew off and rammed the young warrior down hard. But luckily, Dragonspear has his back landed on the ground hard.
Dragonspear grunted as he slowly got up from the ground. He turned and faced at Imperial Phoenix Army. Anger and his allies climbed down from their Dragon Steeds.
"Surrender now!" Anger demanded madly to Dragonspear.
Dragonspear groaned, "Never! I will never surrender!"
"Always the hard way! Take him down!"
Imperial Phoenix Army gave a loud battle cry. They all charged and attacked Dragonspear. The young warrior gave a loud battle cry as he charged and fought back. He gave a powerful swing on his spear in knocking ten soldiers off. He then stroke, thrust and jabbed all of them one-by-one while evading and dodging the attacks as well. And at the same time, Dragonspear also fought and battle with Imperial Phoenix Officers.
"There's nowhere he can hold off that many soldiers." Ben said in alarm. Bravery or not, even Dragonspear won't be able to win with that alone!
"Yeah, the dude is making a big mistake here." Sandbar said, shaking his head in worry. "He needs help, pronto."
"How we do that?" Applejack ask. "That pony is stubborn."
Saber noticed some boulders on high hill. He spoke thoughtfully, "I've got an idea."
Laxtinct jumped and slammed his War Hammer on Dragonspear's head. Blazefist charged and thrust his spear at the warrior, who dodge and evade the attacks five times. Dragonspear grabbed the spear
before kicking Blazefist's chest for ten times before kicked him straight at Laxtinct, whom he got his head punched and hit by him.
Axen screamed as he swung and slammed his axe at Dragonspear, who quickly and firmly dodge the attacks for few times. He turned and ran off towards at the shield units, where he jumped and walked on it before jumped over Axen's back. Dragonspear kicked and slammed him at the shield units. But not before, Axen has his axe's tip jabbed and injured on Dragonspear's left chest.
Anger screamed in anger as he slammed his scimitar against Dragonspear's for the moment. They then departed at once. They both swung and clashed their weapons at each other for few times. They then clashed and glaring at each other for the moment. Dragonspear gave a punch on his face, before tripped him to the ground. He then thrust his spear at Anger's back.
Bladestrike roared in anger as he jumped and gave a powerful slash on Dragonspear's back. Dragonspear grunted in pain as he turned and face Bladestrike. As young warrior tried to thrust and struck his spear, Bladestrike firmly and fiercely swung and deflect 20 attacks while marching towards him. Tired and exhausted, Dragonspear is unable to stand much longer. As he was about to strike again, Bladestrike swung his twin axes in knocking down his helmet. Dragonspear fell on his back hard.
Dragonspear grunted, "Damn it..."
"It's over now." Bladestrike boasted eagerly. Dragonspear is going down and Azure will get another ally to his cause, like it or no.
"At last..." Azure said with a smirk as he watches onward.
"Oh no," Fluttershy gasped in fright. It didn't look good!
That is, until Silverstream notice something's off, causing her to ask, "Wait. Didn't Dragonspear has the team?"
Suddenly one of the Imperial Phoenix Soldiers cried out in alarm, "Watch out!"
Everyone looked up and found couple of boulders rolling down from the hill. They're heading straight to Imperial Phoenix Army. They all screamed and panicked in fear as they quickly ran and moved aside before they get killed.
Ben's Team came and rescued Dragonspear. They gotten him on his Speed Dragon. They all trotted and headed straight to Changban Bridge.
Dragonspear sighed, "Thank you."
"No problem. How's my little brother?" Saber ask, relieved that Dragonspear will live or escape to see another day.
"He's alive."
"Good!" Applejack scowls as she whacks Dragonspear alongside the head. "You are dumb, you know that? You almost got killed."
"Yeah, I agree. Pretty dumb, you know?" Sandbar asks Dragonspear dryly.
Ben nodded as he added, "Seriously, Dragonspear, we could have gone around them and also avoid them, you know?"
Sandbar nodded as he agrees, "That would save the troubles and not let the baby get hurt."
Dragonspear rubs the back of his head where Applejack whacks him, saying sheepishly, "Oh! Sorry. I guess I didn't think about it."
"Well, we'd better go now! They're coming after us." Applejack insists quickly; Won't be long before more will be coming.
Dragonspear's Team have escaped. Azure Phoenix was annoyed and frustrated for failures.
"No more failures. Find and kill Virtue Dragon!" Azure scowls furiously to his army. He is getting fed up with these failures and delays. Virtue Dragon dies or someone from his own army will!
"Lord!" The army cries out as they bowed to their leader.
"To Changban Bridge," Anger ordered sternly to his men. The ones who are forced to kill or hurt for Azure watch on in horror and sadness. This is getting way out of hoof here.
"Oh no; this is getting bad." Fluttershy mumbles quietly to her friends.
"I know." Silverstream said in sadness. "Gallus, I don't want to be with these ponies anymore. They aren't nice."
"I know....I know." Gallus sighs in sadness and he hugs Silverstream in comfort. He wants out of here too.
But how, when Twilight, Spike and Nyx are in danger of being killed or worst?
-------------
Dragonspear's Team has arrived at the Changban Bridge, where Warpath is standing and arming with his Forked-Bladed Serpentine Spear.
"Lord Warpath! The rest is up to you!" Dragonspear calls out to Warpath in determination.
"Right, we got some bad guys chasing us." Applejack said to Dragonspear with a nod. "Think you done can handle it?"
"Don't think, Applejack. Just do, Warpath!" Ben calls out to Warpath quickly.
"It's about time..." The warrior mumbles. Warpath looked up and found Imperial Phoenix Army is coming to them now. Warpath smirked as he continues, "Here stands the mighty Warpath 'Bob Papenbrook' Temper! Any of you who wish to taste death..." He shouted in thunderous roar, "Step forward!"
His thunderous roar has halted Imperial Phoenix Soldiers from marching and advancing. They all were in shock and scared of what they just witness.
"Ha! Bring it on! I'm ready!" Warpath exclaims in determination as he got his spear ready.
The Imperial Phoenix Captain quickly recovers as he screams, "Get him!"
Imperial Phoenix Soldiers gave loud battle cries. They all charged and attacked Warpath. The mighty warrior fought back by swinging and striking his spear in killing them one-by-one.
----------
Virtue Dragon and his team did their best to help and guide all the peasants and soldiers to the ships as fast as they can. Dragonspear's Team have arrived and stand before him. They climbed down their dragon steeds. They bowed before him.
"Dragonspear! My friend! Where were you?! Kindy?! What happen," Virtue ask frantically. He notes how his waves are nowhere in sight, he fears the worst.
Dragonspear held the baby up, speaking in regret, "Your wives... They were killed. Only son we've manage to save. Forgive me..."
Saber nodded as he said, "Please; forgive us."
"You should be glad, sir." Ben explains to Virtue calmly. "Lady Hope gave her life so her son can live."
"He got a point." Starlight said, knowing that Ben is serious about that. "It's best not to let her sacrifice be in vain."
Virtue grabbed and held both Dragonspear and Saber up. He gave them a hug while crying, "I was so worried about you two. I'm glad you're alive."
Saber sighed, "You're too kind, father."
Dragonspear nodded as he spoke, "Yes. All we can do is protect you, my lord."
"We got out of that mess for now." Sandbar said in relief, "Though the battle isn't over yet."
"Yeah, and I thought Cozy Glow and the other jerks we took on were bad enough." Smolder comments in agreement.
"I'm more worried about Twilight. I'd never thought Azure Phoenix decide to ignore her now." Ben said, still disbelief by this. He thought Azure would be the same pony he looked up to in the present. Now; Even the prince is not sure anymore.
Starlight patted Ben on the back in comfort, saying calmly, "Ben, we'll get her back; one way or another."
"Right; we ain't giving up yet." Smolder said in agreement. "We still got our other pals out there."
"Yeah, we just need to find them, then hope to the Herd that Twilight and her group will hold out until then." Applejack said with a nod. She knows Twilight, she will hold out quickly.
"Yeah. You're right about that." Ben said to his friends with a sigh. It will be rough, but they will make it....somehow.
-------
Ben's Team quickly returned to Changban Bridge as they're trying to get Warpath Temper. Moving through the forest, they arrived at the bridge, where they found Pinkie and her team were performing cheerleading style while using bushes as well. Ben's Team was in shocked yet annoyed by her randomness again. They approached to her at once. They all glared at her. She stopped and smiled at them.
"Hey, guys! What took you long?" Pinkie asked happily.
"We were fine, Professor Pinkie," Sandbar answered dryly.
"Pinkie, you were supposed to help Warpath!" Ben angrily scolded Pinkie, "Not cheerleading!"
"I am helping! And I'm cheerleading for Warpath! Besides, he doesn't need us to help him out," Pinkie said happily while pointing at the bridge. Ben's Team looked at the front. They were in shock and surprised. They witnessed Warpath single-handedly fought and killed Imperial Phoenix Soldiers one-byone. They were in shock and surprise. She continued, "Come on, everyone! Do the cheerleading!
"Warpath, Warpath, he's our man. If he can't do it, no one can! Go...Warpath!" Pinkie and Virtue Dragon's Soldiers cheered wildly and happily.
Warpath roared angrily and wildly as he swung his first strike of Forked-blade Serpentine Spear at three Imperial Phoenix Earth Ponies, before swung a few next strikes at some of Griffon, Unicorns, Pegasi and even Diamond Dogs. He already killed almost 30 soldiers. He then stomped on the ground. He gave a loud thunderous roar while slamming his spear on the ground hard.
"You want some more?!" Warpath demanded wildly. He scoffed, "Warpath 'Bob Papenbrook' Temper can drink and fight for another day!"
Hearing the thunderous roar has spooked and scared Imperial Phoenix Soldiers to run off at once. They have never seen or faced someone that is fierce and strong as he is.
"Ha! Coward! Pathetic! The lot of you!" Warpath taunted, "I'm still waiting for real challenge!"
The main army of Imperial Phoenix have arrived. Azure Phoenix and his generals were in shock of what they saw. Their own soldiers were running away from Warpath Tempest, who was still standing before the bridge.
"I don't believe it..." Azure Phoenix said in shock.
Fluttershy gulped, "Believe it or not, Warpath is somepony you don't want to mess with. I know that because Phobos make a big fuss of insulting him."
"Gallus did that too," Silverstream said in concern.
"It was just a prank," Gallus exclaimed in annoyance.
"It doesn't matter how strong and fierce he is, he is only pony," Azure Phoenix said darkly and angrily, "Get him! I want Virtue Dragon's head!"
Anger nodded, "Understand, cousin." He turned and faced to the front. He called out, "Warpath
Temper, no matter how powerful and ferocious you are, we will defeat you, your friends and your lord. We will have his head on the tip of our spear!"
Warpath scoffed arrogantly, "I would like to see you try, you assholes. Just coz you eat your own eye doesn't make you some kind of badass warrior because I am a badass warrior, asshole!"
Anger groaned in annoyance, "Get him!"
"Do we have to?" Laxtinct asked fearfully before looked at angry Warpath. He yelped in fear, "That guy's really freaks me out!"
Blazefist narrowed his eyes firmly, "Well, it doesn't matter because we're gonna ram him though together, little brother."
"That would be a bad idea!" Silverstream protested in concern.
Ignoring the Hippogriff, Laxtinct armed with his Rock Hammer while Blazefist readied his Falcon Spear as they both screamed and charged wildly and determinedly at Warpath. Laxtinct swung and slammed his hammer at Warpath, but blocked and deflected aside. Blazefist jumped and thrust his spear from the top. Luckily, the might warrior grabbed and slammed him on his brother to the ground hard. They both groaned in pain. He roared angrily as he slammed his fists on them. They both yelped as they moved away at once. Laxtinct slammed and swung his hammer in knocking him off before Blazefist jumped and thrust his Falcon Spear at Warpath, injuring the left side of chest. Enduring the pain that Laxtinct and Blazefist have caused on him, Warpath roared in anger, which shocked and made the brothers to back off. He then landed both punches on their heads hard to the ground.
Axen huffed while armed with his axe, "I shall take it over!"
"So, will I! Die, Warpath Temper!" Clawdestroyer roared wildly.
Axen and Clawdestroyer armed with their axe and claws. They were swinging, thrusting and striking their weapons at Warpath, who blocked and deflected the attacks as hard as he can. Though he was strong, Warpath was too slowly to withstand Axen and Clawdestroyer's speeds of attacking him. Thus, they have wounded him a lot. Both of them jumped and readied to strike him down by slamming their weapons on him. Luckily, he quickly grabbed and held off the weapons before giving them a headbutt, knocking them off. He then swung and struck his spear in knocking them off.
Anger groaned, "Bladestrike, Bullhound, with me. It's time we teach this idiot some lesson!"
"Indeed," Bladestrike exclaimed in agreement, "We will not let you stand in our lord's way!"
Bullhound snarled while armed with his club, "Back off now or we'll make you! Give up now!"
Warpath snarled, "Make me!"
Anger screamed in fury as he charged and swung his scimitar in high speed at Warpath, who did his best to dodge and block the attacks while trying to hit him down. Anger dodged and evaded the attacks while striking his enemy down swiftly and fiercely. Bladestrike charged in as he swung and slammed his axes in knocking and pushing the mighty warrior back off. Both of them swung and slammed their weapons at each other fiercely and aggressively. While Warpath was busy handling and dealing with Bladestrike, Anger took his chance in attacking him from behind. Warpath screamed in anger Bullhound roared as he charged and formed into a rolling bowl-like and rammed Warpath off. He even slammed his club in knocking off the might warrior. Warpath panted heavily in exhaustion as he's unable to withstand the attack.
Ben and his team gasped in shock and concern. They all armed and readied their weapons as they're about to help him.
"Is that all you've got?" Warpath asked dryly and firmly while panted heavily, "Coz I'm still waiting for challenge."
"You really don't know when to quit!" Bladestrike said firmly and dryly.
Anger nodded, "Look around! Innocent slaughtered because of you! You let them to battlefield! If I was the smart, I wouldn't have drag them and make them follow me here!"
"Yeah! You're using them as shields!" Bullhound exclaimed in anger, "Shame on you! Your master is evil!"
"How dare you call my brother that?!" Warpath demanded in anger. His body began burning and blazing in flames. He roared, "And trust me! You don't want to make me angry! Nopony gets away from that stupid insults! You hear me, assholes! I'm gonna make you pay now!"
And just before Anger and his team could do anything, Warpath grabbed and spun Bullhound around and around in knocking and injuring Anger, Bladestrike and even himself. And at the same time, he roared wildly and angrily. After spinning and injuring his enemies, Warpath thrown Bullhound straight at Anger and Bladestrike. Three of them got thrown straight to their army. Warpath then gave a loud thunderous roar, which shocked the Imperial Phoenix Army. He even slammed his Forked Blade Serpentine Spear on the bridge, causing it breaking to pieces.
Warpath was about to fall to his death if not for Applejack's lasso grabbing him in time. Ben's Team quickly pulled and dragged him back to their sides. They all sighed in relief. They all looked up and faced Azure Phoenix and his army.
"Azure! You really have gone too far!" Ben shouted angrily and firmly. Azure Phoenix remained firm and calm. He continued, "We'll bring you to justice! We'll make everything back to normal! And best of all, we will get Twilight back! You betrayed her trust and agreement! And trust us, if we ever get the chance to see you again, I will kill you personally! To think we thought of you as friend."
Azure Phoenix groaned in annoyance, "Well, I would like to see you try. Without Twilight, all of you are nothing but pathetic and fools to think naively about Magic of Friendship! The only ponies you can trust is yourself. That's how the world works."
"Well, not to me," Ben said firmly, "And trust me, we will win."
"Let's get out of here now!" Saber said firmly.
Ben and his team nodded firmly as they turned and headed off at once. Azure Phoenix and his army remained standing firm while watching their enemies escaping for their lives.
Bladestrike bowed before Azure Phoenix, "My lord, forgive us."
"We'll get them the next time," Anger said firmly.
Azure Phoenix nodded firmly, "I agreed." He turned and glared at Fluttershy, Gallus and Silverstream. Three of them looked worry and scared. He continued, "We have some issues to deal with..."
--------------------------------------------
Ben and his team managed to escape and regrouped with Virtue Dragon and his allies. They all have gotten on the naval ships. They're now heading to another location for safe and secured from Imperial Phoenix Army. Most ponies of Jing Province chatted and cried tearfully and upset that they have lost their home to Azure Phoenix. The soldiers were patrolling and keep their eyes on the surroundings. Blade Dragoon and his team were leading the naval ships to safe location. Warpath Temper, Master Cooler, Lady Marvel and Twinkle Star were on the naval ships' rearguard. Dragonspear was accompanying both Virtue Dragon and Skysoar Intellect while Saber was looking after his newly baby brother at the middle naval ships. Ben and his team were on edge of ship's.
Ben shown concern and scared. Applejack patted Ben's back, "You know we'll get her back, right?"
"I know, but how?" Ben asked in concern.
Starlight sighed before showing the bamboo message, "Remember the message? Twilight said that we have to make alliance with Tiger Clan. With them, we have the chance to defeat Azure Phoenix and win the battlefield of Red Cliff. That way, we can rescue our friends!"
"And also, we have to make sure that two forces are friends, not enemies too," Pinkie said calmly and happily, "We want to avoid the crazy vengeance again."
"Good point," Applejack agreed, "Saber told me about that story. It was terrible. I hate to think of it."
Ben sighed, "Let's make this work..."
Virtue Dragon was talking with Skysoar about the next plans. The strategist turned and glared at Ben's Team like he has suspicious on them. He turned his attention to his lord. He spoke, "My lord, I know that you and them are friends. Don't trust them."
"What? Why?" Virtue Dragon asked in concern.
"My lord. I do believed that they're not really helping you to achieve your ambition, but rather plotted against you and helping Twilight to achieve her goals."
"What?! What hope they do achieve for?"
"I need more time to understand them. But for now, we must be weary of them and also not to give them too much of information, no matter what. If we do, they may alert any enemies of our plans. And also, we will and must not rescue their friends. We must keep them apart, at all cost."
"I suppose so..."
Dragonspear and Saber looked shock and concern of what they heard. They couldn't believe that both Virtue Dragon and Skysoar Intellect has suspicious about Ben's Team being enemies and plotted against them, and even refused to give them the information and strategies. They really don't like it especially keeping the secrets from their own friends.
--------------------------------------------
Though they have failed to stop and kill Virtue Dragon, Imperial Phoenix Army headed off and conquered the River Guardian Fortress, where its two admirals have surrendered to him. Azure Phoenix was sitting down on his throne seat before two admirals. His generals and advisors were standing on both sides. The first admiral was dark golden colored unicorn worn the helmet with dark red feather and dark purple armor - Admiral Cai, and the second pony is a dark greenish-cyan colored Earth Pony worn the naval armor and helmet - Vice Admiral Pritt. Both of them were bowing before the leader.
"So, you must be Sozin's greatest admirals of navy - Admiral Cai and Vice Admiral Pritt," Azure Phoenix said calmly while reading the surrendered letter. The admirals nodded firmly. He smiled, "I'm surprised that you chose not to resist me, even though I killed your master."
"That master, my lord, is worthless and unworthy to be our leader," Admiral Cai said firmly.
Vice Admiral Pritt nodded in agreement, "Indeed. And also, with great resources and naval ships, yours army will become invincible. No one will dare to challenge and defy you."
"Is that so," Azure Phoenix asked curiously. Admiral Cai and Vice Admiral Pritt nodded firmly. He asked, "How many ships and soldiers you have stored in the fortress?"
"We have 300,000 naval troops, and also more than 2,000 naval battleships and boats in various sizes," Admiral Cai said calmly and firmly, "And we are very aware that your forces from the North are not quite familiar with navy. So, we would be glad to offer our services to you."
Vice Admiral Pritt nodded, "Indeed. With our great training, your forces will be able to familiarize with both naval formation and tactics. The enemies will be dealt with."
"I see..." Azure Phoenix said in impressed.
"Still... I heard rumors that you've been friends with Water Tiger Clan," Master Ratio asked suspiciously.
"Indeed. Are you certain that we can trust you?" Woren asked in agreement.
Admiral Cai shook his head, "With all due respect, my lord. Even though Jing and Water Tiger Clan are neutral and temporary allies, we're not friends because we know that they desired to conquer our land. So, we've been keeping an eye on them if they tried to invade our land."
"It's understandable..." Azure Phoenix said calmly. He noticed the map Vice Admiral Pritt was holding, "What is that?"
"This?" Vice Admiral Pritt asked as he unfolded and revealed the large map of Water Tiger Clan, "This is the map of Water Tiger Clan's territories. And it wasn't easy for our soldiers to map them out."
"Agreed. And their strongest fortress is Red Cliff," Admiral Cai added while pointed at the 'Red Cliff' fortress on the map, "If you can conquer this fortress, the river will help and open you various paths of river that could lead you to the enemy's territories."
"Impressive..." Azure Phoenix said calmly, "You two would be perfect admirals for our naval army. I would like to have that."
"Cousin, what about Virtue Dragon?" Anger asked in concern, "He and his defeated forces have fled to Fishing's Pond Fort, which is almost close to Red Cliff. There is no doubt that weasel planned to join forces with Water Tiger Clan. If they do, they will-?!"
"What can they do?!" Azure Phoenix asked calmly, "Even if they formed the alliance, this will justify our war against Courage Tiger for harboring the traitor and rebelling the Imperial Court. It's perfect. Virtue Dragon may have been former descendant to Dragoon Kingdom, but he is now a broken pony with failures. Courage Tiger is young stallion, who has no achievements in his life. So, what can they do?"
"Nothing?" Anger asked.
Azure Phoenix smiled, "Exactly, nothing."
"If that is what you wish, my lord," Master Ratio said calmly before glared at Admiral Cai and Vice Admiral Pritt, "As long they both don't betray us."
Woren hummed suspiciously, "Agreed."
Admiral Cai and Vice Admiral Pritt bowed down, "We will never! We would be glad to give our lives to you!"
"Excellent. I like to hear it. I wish someone could do the same thing," Azure Phoenix said dryly and glaring at Twilight and her friends. He continued, "Today's battlefield is unacceptable. It appears that we need to make some changes especially Oracle Twilight."
"I hate to ask about that," Nyx said in concern.
"From now on, Oracle Twilight and Master Ratio will return to Xuchang Province to protect the land. The rest will be with me! There will be no communication and messages between them now!" Azure Phoenix said firmly, shocking and worrying Twilight and her friends. He continued, "Fluttershy will be working as physician. Silverstream will work under Blazefist as his private. Gallus will be working for Clawdestroyer. Nyx and Spike will be working for me from now on! We will defeat our enemies including their friends. Either they join us or die. There will be no mistakes!"
"That's not fair!" Spike protested.
Nyx nodded, "My mother gave you the advice to win the war! Not to mention, you can't turn back on the agreement."
"I have no patient with that agreement anymore," Azure Phoenix said darkly. He turned and glared at Twilight, "In fact, she's not putting her effort of helping us win the war lately because of her weakness and naivety. This is for the best. Master Ratio, take her back to home now."
Master Ratio nodded in concern and understanding while Twilight looked down in upset and angry that her own best friend decide to ignore her and her advice because of her friendship. Fluttershy, Nyx, Spike, Gallus and Silverstream tearfully hug and say goodbye to her. Master Ratio helped and led
Twilight out as they're heading back to Xuchang Province. Azure Phoenix turned and glared at the map again. He was looking at the 'Red Cliff' Fort.
"We will attack the Red Cliff, and then conquer the Wuhu River! There will be no more delays and mistakes. Understand?!"
"LORD!"
"T-This cannot be happening..." Nyx said in concern.
END...
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