//------------------------------// // A Fool in Debt // Story: Equestria Lost: Dragons beyond time // by Tythen //------------------------------// "Ooh... my head..." Flash sat on the ground, "What happened? Oh yeah, that's right... I was falling... then I must have hit my head... that probably explains why I'm here..." Flash looked around. There was nothing but darkness as far and as close as he could see. He couldn't even see his arms, hands, or legs. Only feel them. "There's no chance I'd ever survive falling from a mountain." Flash stood up, "Guess I'm dead. Except..." He touched his face; it wasn't red or uncomfortable. He blinked; no tears poured out. "... I don't feel so sad or scared about it." His lips curved into a smile, "That's funny... lots of people would cower and be afraid or at least cry about leaving those they care about... And I certainly do have people I care about. Maybe because I've lived following the Goddess' love and example? That I won't be afraid of what's to come at my time's end? I guess that's why people would consider religious humans, not 'human'." He burst out laughing, "What am I talking about? I sound like a complete looney just contemplating and talking to myself! Goddess, I feel like such a wreck! I'm dying, I'm not sad or afraid about it, I'm trying to figure out why, and now I'm contemplating human thinking and philosophy and religion! Look like I've learned something new. No matter what you believe after death, you're never resting in peace!!! Hahahaha!" Then he felt his entire body crack, with pain blaring everywhere around his body. "Owowowow..." Flash yelped, "Okay, okay... I got it... I'd better start figuring out which unknown realm I'm in before I really lose it... Eh?" His leg and ankle refused to budge, "That's odd... I just stood up on my own. How did..." A light interrupted his train of thought. A bright and beautiful light appeared at a distance. "Ohh... so this is the light at the end of the tunnel... And I can see the outlines of my hand!" Flash observed, "But... my legs don't seem to move anymore." Then he noticed the light grew bigger and bigger. It was closing on him, "Ah..." Flash smiled, "Looks like I don't have to walk towards it. It'll take me anyway..." "Hey!" A girls' voice snapped, "Are you with me?" "Huh? Who's there?" Flash asked, "Whatever you do, don't go into the light!" "What? But... isn't that the way to peace?" Flash asked, "Look, I know life sucks and all, but there are always people making it beautiful! That's what makes life worth living!!!" "Oh relax," Flash laughed, "I'm not committing suicide, and yeah, I believe what you said but... as of now, I can't move my legs, and that light's coming for me." "Don't worry. Hang in there... I'll get you to a place soon enough!" As the light inched closer and closer, Flash could hear someone running. Towards his direction too. "Well, maybe come quickly?" Flash politely asked, "I'm starting to see my body thanks to the light! See if you can follow my voice!" "I got you... I got you..." A hand grabbed his. Flash turned around to see an extremely familiar face. It was the girl he saw in Kleifheim. Short white hair with purple highlights at the end. Her eyes were light blue, and she was wearing that casual white and purple shirt. She looked two years younger than he was, but what intrigued him was the colour of her body. It was the same colour as Ms Cleo's and Ms M in human form. "Hey! You're the girl that ran from me! How the heck did you get here!?" Flash asked, "Ah, you're still moving! As I said, help is on the way... just hang in a little longer." The young girl wrapped an arm around him, then the other on the back of his knees, "Careful, my legs seem pretty heavy and banged up, so please be with-woah!!!" With a simple grunt, the white-haired girl lifted him like a princess and carried him away from the approaching light. "You'll be in good hands," The girl smiled, "Everything for you is going to be fine." "What is going on? How can you carry me so easily? And where are you taking me?" "It's okay... It's okay... It's okay..." The girl repeated over and over. Flash began to feel drowsy from her voice and words and blanked out once again. "Uhh..." Flash slowly lifted his eyelids. He's in a bright place once again, but it didn't feel like the light from before. Using his eyes, he saw a window... that light... it's from the sun! He could feel his body senses as usual, but his legs didn't weigh him down like before. But with that being said, when he tried twitching a muscle, his body responded in sharp pain. His ears were the next to come back. Some beeping and booping. Also the humming of some machines. That gave him a hint of where he was... a hospital. Wait... a hospital? If he's half-awake, could feel his senses, and recognise he's in a hospital... there's no mistaking it. He's alive! He's miraculously alive!!! But it will take a while for him to fully open his eyes. Right now, he can only rely on half-sight, the temperature on his skin, and what's touching him. The warmth and soft fabric on his front body is a blanket. The cushioning on his back? A mattress. Oh yeah, and it should be obvious that he's wearing a hospital gown. However, something was restricting both his arms from moving. He can feel something poking into his left hand, so it must be that thing they call an IV drip. But for his right arm, he felt pressure on the farthest half, close to where his wrist is. His eyelids no longer felt heavy so he opened them in full view. Turning his attention to his right arm, his eyes contracted in horror, "Oh, Goddess!" Two young girls were sitting next to him, their hands tight and their heads resting on the entire length of his arm. He looked forward and saw a group of familiar faces just outside his room, squabbling with some nurses and doctors. One of them spots him awake, and she broke into a wide smile. "Flash!!!" Mrs Sentry spoke to the rest, "He's awake!" They smiled at their friend, sibling and son and entered the room. Even Adagio came. Rarity went to wake up the girls upon the patient's arm. "But Flash..." Scootaloo yawned, "I'll stay with him till he wakes..." Sweetie moaned, "I'm awake you two," Flash chuckled, The girls gasped, then beam widely, "You're alive!" They squealed, "Yowch!" Flash winced, "That was a message to say that you can let me go! Not squeeze me harder!!!" "Humourous as usual. You have returned!" Mr Sentry nods, "Okay, you two," Rarity tapped her sister and Scootaloo, "Give him some space. How are you, Flash?" "I'd like to know why two young children are clinging on to my arm. Don't tell me you called the FBI! I swear I'm innocent!" Flash panicked, "Oy!" Scootaloo slaps him on the head, "We're freshmen. Big Mac's a senior. You, Rarity, Rainbow and the rest are borderline sophomore and junior. And not to mention you guys already have your driving licences! You're only two to three years older than us!!! Do we still look like lolis to you?" "Er-hem!" Mrs Sentry cleared her throat, "P-Please don't use that dreadful term, Scootaloo. It makes things confusing and awkward," "I'm kidding, I'm kidding..." Flash laughed, "You're old enough to make your choices. And the fact that the two of you are turning fifteen this year!" "Really?" Cleo whispered, "I almost thought they were as old as Pia, given that Sweetie's singing voice almost fits hers." "You guys must have had fun when I was out..." Flash grumbled, "Nope," Big Mac shook his head, "We were extremely worried." "So in that case, how am I alive?" "You were very lucky," A doctor took over, "Your bones weren't fractured let alone broken when you were found. That being said, it did open up a lot of wounds around the body in both small and big, meaning you could have died from blood loss." "So that explains why my body feels so painful." "Unfortunately those wounds will need stitches. The operation can happen today and will only take about two to three hours, and be staying overnight. Is that alright with you?" "Uhh..." "The doctor discussed it with us. We all suggest you go for it," Mrs Sentry encouraged, "Well, in that case... why not?" Flash agreed, "Are you sure?" The doctor asked, "Yes." Flash nods, "And doing it today is good," "Very well. I'll notify the operation room to get ready. Meanwhile, I'll leave you all to share what happened," The doctor responded and leaves the room. "Anyway, as Big Mac said, we were all worried." Sweetie explained, "We almost thought we lost you!" "The hospital was able to contact us thanks to your phone." Ms M explained, "Hard to believe it was still intact after the fall!" "When we told Scootaloo, she immediately called your friends!" Mr Sentry added, "Ah... right, I haven't introduced you guys yet," Flash looks to Cleo and Ms M, "We've already done that. Your teacher Ms M, and Cleo." Mrs Sentry assured, "A very nice name, Cleo." After a lot of talking and catching-up to cheer up the bedridden boy, it was time for the surgery to happen. Everyone was nervous; standing or sitting in the waiting room. "I do hope he'll be okay..." Rarity nervously spoke, "The report says nothing dangerous was lodged into the large wounds, except maybe a few dirt and pebbles, but they'll also be cleaning that too." Mr Sentry replies, "This operation is low risk. If it happens to be fatal, then this would be a one-sided argument against them in court." "I just remembered that you remarked none of us experiencing the pain after surgery big sis," Sweetie narrows her eyes, "You have a bad case of foreshadowing." "It's not intentional Sweetie..." Rarity retorts, pulling on Sweetie's cheeks. "Hey... everyone?" Scootaloo piped up, "There's something I need to tell you guys. It's about Flash," "Huh?" Big Mac and the rest of the visitors perk up. "Flash would tell you sooner or later. But in the case of trouble, he asked me to speak on his behalf," "Oh... I see what this is about." Mrs Sentry nods, "What is there about the idiot, I mean- him, do we not know?" Adagio asked, "Take it away Scootaloo," Mr Sentry gestures, "Flash has been working hard on being nice and goofy, which might have made him a little unpopular because of how carefree and average it is. But deep inside he has something that could scare off any kind of person. That's the real reason why he's unpopular." "Flash? Scary?" Big Mac asks, "Right..." "She's right," Mrs Sentry supports, "And believe me, I too was horrified. And not in a good way." As night falls, Flash gets ready to turn in. He wipes his sutured wounds with a wet towel, then applies some lotion and a new bandage. He then turns off the TV with the remote, all while still in bed. "It's really impressive how you can take care of your wounds all by yourself, you don't even show the slightest expression of pain. But really, don't hesitate to call us for something else." "No worries there. I still need to rely on you; such as needing to go for a walk or to the toilet." Flash laughed, "You have a way with supportive words, even when we should be doing that to you." The doctor chuckled, "Really? Well, let's see if you change your mind if I ask you this question. How did I get here?" "Someone was carrying you. She's a strong gal if she could do that." "Someone was carrying me? Who?" "She's about a girl your age. White hair with lilac tips maybe?" The doctor explained "She's got quite a positive reputation around Canterlot. Anyway, parts of her hair looked like horns, but never mind her appearance. She's been carrying wounded people on her own to this hospital." "I wasn't the only one?" Flash raises a brow, "Yes. I don't know when she started doing this but... I've counted about fifteen times she came to the emergency ward with an injured person on her shoulders or back. It didn't matter regardless the gender, the reputation, or even when we noticed that one of the people she brought here had a criminal record." "Wow," "But it's not just the hospital. The girl also hangs around the stores, helping shop owners with any heavy load, free of charge. And she's also helped find lost things too. Cats, dogs, even small or common items. She was courageous enough to climb a tall tree just to bring back a child's balloon." "She's dedicated to helping others, giving them hope and joy in a time of pain and hardships. That's seriously amazing," "I couldn't have said it better myself," The doctor agreed, "I was able to chat with her over some coffee, and I asked why she did these things." "And?" "She's seen many people suffer at a young age. Because of that, she dedicates her life to making others happy and hopeful in times of hardships. Even she could tell I was suffering, given the stress and worry of working as a doctor in a hospital. When you are unable to save someone's life or trying to find a way to deliver some bad or stressful news, it really hurts inside. It makes you question whether you're a good doctor or not. After talking with her, and with her giving me copious amounts of encouragement, I could lift my head a little bit... I mean I wanted to keep this suffering bottled up, but I never realised how... nice it feels having a pair of ears to listen, and for her to encourage me to keep on being a good doctor." "... Is she single?" Flash whispered, "Hmm..." The doctor frowned, "Sorry. Bad joke," Flash apologised, "It's not about that. Yes, her personality is a point of attractiveness, but I think you should know one thing about her. Are you willing to hear this?" "Sounds serious," "I may have only been a doctor for two years," The doctor closes the door and shuts the blinds, "But as someone who's spent years of study in science, I still truly cannot comprehend everything about the world we live in." "Is this girl hiding a secret?" Flash deduced, "I was going home one night, heading to my car. Before I could start the engine, I saw that same girl scampering off into some alleyway which I knew had a dead end. Suddenly, there was a flash of light. And then... with the moon as my only source of light... I saw her... flying in the sky." The doctor exhales, "She has wings!?!?" "More than that... She didn't even look human... her body was smaller than before... she had claws where her feet were, and it had a tail too!" The doctor's fingers start to tremble, "But those features... don't tell me," "I believe what I see. As a man of science, I hold to my claim. There's no mistaking what I saw that night... the girl who's been helping us... helping this small city... is a dragon!" Flash looks him in the eye. A doctor, mired in uncertainty and disbelief. Now that he thinks about it... the description of that girl was almost the same of what he saw back when he was unconscious... what is going on!? The next morning, Flash sat up in bed once the sunbeams hit his eyes. "Oww..." Flash moaned as he stretches his arms. Wait... He's not feeling any pain right now. The only thing he feels is just the presence of the stitches. Pulling back his sleeves to check, he was right. The hole of red that the strings tried to cover up is gone, not even the scabs are present either. "Good morning!!!" Rarity, Sweetie Belle, Big Mac, Adagio, Cleo, Ms M, Scootaloo and Mr and Mrs Sentry piles into the room, "This again!?" Flash yelled, "Did you guys sleep overnight!?" "No. We went home," Rarity answered, "But we did some scoping out when we left. Like where your room was situated via the window." "I asked the nurse who was in charge to open the blinds once you're asleep because you sleep better with the blinds open," Mrs Sentry continued, "Wait... what? That's not true!" Flash protested, "Exactly. Your friends shared additional information about 'mana' and showcased another of its uses. Healing magic, on you." Mr Sentry explains, "You healed me when I was asleep?" "With Healing Faith from Estelle, it worked in an instant!!!" Rarity snaps her fingers, "All your big wounds closed up!" "Although Estelle's healing skills repair wounds greater on an individual target, keeping the wounds stitched together supported its effectiveness." Cleo briefed, "So when the doctor and nurses come in, I think they'll find you ready to be discharged!" Adagio laughed, "You guys... you're so kind..." Flash teared up, "Just imagine if the hospital or a clinic was able to use mana to heal people... so much can be saved!" Mr Sentry exclaimed, And Adagio was right. The doctor was a little surprised that the boy who was wounded and had undertaken surgery yesterday was strong in his muscles and reflexes today. But after a quick second opinion, they concluded that he was back to full physical health. With a snip of the sutures, one last shower, and filling out the medical report, Flash was discharged. The family treated him, and the rest, out for a big lunch. Flash could have never been happier. Not because the food was extremely delightful and cheap, but his parents were able to start on good and friendly terms with Cleo and Ms M. Their in-depth conversations about occupations quickly changed into a discussion about deep philosophies and subjects, even if it may be a bit uncomfortable for him to hear. But come Sunday, Big Mac texted a message that he and the girls are meeting in the Halidom again in the afternoon, wanting him to come. "Don't you think you should rest for a few days?" Mr Sentry suggested, "Look at me right now and tell me if I don't look well," Flash answered, "Outside, and inside. And I won't be getting into anything dangerous. I promise," Mr and Mrs Sentry look at each other, then nod in unison. "Okay. But you're to walk and take it easy. No intense activity. Promise?" Mrs Sentry assured, "I promise," Flash repeated, "Good. Now be gone!" Mr Sentry chanted, Into the Mayleaf Trail and emerging from the misty portal, Flash entered the Halidom castle grounds. There he sees his three classmates, the siren, and the castle's mom sitting around the unlit campfire. "What's up?" "First off, this belongs to you." Big Mac revealed, "Hey! That's the halberd!" Flash gasped, "How did you find this? Did you make a new one?" "No. It's the same one Mym gifted you." Cleo shook her head, "After we spent about an hour trying to look for you underneath that chasm, we found it sticking out of the grass back at the Halidom with a note tied to it; revealing that you ended up in the hospital." "And then you told Scoots and my parents." Flash deduced while taking the lance. "Alright then." "You're not interested in your saviour?" Adagio frowned, "I know who she is... or what she is. If you can carry a teenage male from the mountains to the hospital in time to be saved, you're not human. What I want to know, is who this dragon is, and her name." "Her name is Hinata," Sweetie answered, "Ms M told us that she was one of many dragons formally pactbound with Prince Euden. She wasn't as strong as Ms M or the other Greatwyrms, but she was devoted to helping humans, sylvans, and other animals that have suffered. The catch is that she doesn't make her presence known because of a dragon law that prevents them from meddling in the human world without good cause. Though if you ask me, what she's doing is more than a good cause." "The doctor told me he saw her in a human form... and that she could turn into a dragon..." "Seven-hundred years and she learned to take on a human form? The only dragon I know who could do that is Mym." Cleo exhaled, "If that's true, then Hinata could carry on her altruistic duties and any other person would be none the wiser." "Then she's already made her presence known..." Flash shook his head, "Well, I gotta find her..." "Nope," Big Mac refused, "You ain't goin' back up there..." "Mac, I gotta give credit where its due," Flash shot back, "She saved my life. I need to let her know how thankful I am- scratch that. I owe her." "Oh give me a break," Adagio scoffed, "No wonder why you're insufferable... you're just a straight-up kind and nice guy." "Honestly, I don't see why that is a flaw to his reputation." Rarity responded, "It would benefit him greatly for the future. He'd be a wonderful support worker." "I appreciate you sticking up for me and planning my future career," Flash laughed, "But I must confess that even I have limits to my patience," "And you're humble. Blech," Adagio retched, "No wonder why no one notices you," "About finding Hinata. You won't have to worry about that." Cleo responded, ignoring the comment, "Mym's off to find her now. She's observant enough as your teacher to know that you'd never leave someone alone without your gratitude." "I'm starting to see Ms M in a new light now..." Rarity shared, "I thought she was a fiery, bad-tempered teacher who always roars and yells at others for their bad behaviour or misconduct, but she really looks out for others." "Agreed," Flash nodded, "Speak of the devil!" Sweetie pointed to the sky, "She's flying down right now!" The Flamewyrm made her descent while being watched by the people below. She landed gently at a distance next to the campfire. The humans and sylvan stood up to greet her with a smile but froze a second later. "What the-!?" Big Mac exclaimed. "Oh no!" Sweetie and Rarity held their hands to their mouth. Adagio raised her eyebrows in shock. Curled up in the Flamewyrm's claws and arms was a white and purple dragon covered with countless cuts and bruises, bleeding all over. "Helllp... meeee..." The little dragon sputtered, "Hinata!!!" Flash rushed over, "Ms M, what happened!?" "She was being pursued by an abominable number of fiends from the ground and the air and couldn't find any spot to hide and rest. An eyefly shot her wing and sent her crashing down for all the ground fiends to rip into her. I interrupted the fight and roasted as many fiends as I can, especially those that could fly. But I couldn't stay and fight forever, so I rushed back home to you so you guys could heal her!" Brunhilda reported, "Thanks..." Cleo nodded, "Can you put her down?" "Here..." Brunhilda gently eased the little dragon on the grass. "Elder Cure," Cleo chanted, A green light burst within Hinata's bleeding body, easing some of her cuts and bruises. But it was not enough to heal her fully. "The wounds are too many, with most cutting incredibly deep," Cleo examined, "Be careful..." Hinata muttered, a little better than before. "What is it?" Flash asked, "These fiends... I can feel their lack of relent. They'll continue... pursuing... me..." "Hinata..." Flash carefully placed a comforting hand on the little dragon's scales, "It's going to be alright... If they're coming after you... I'll fight them off." "What!?" Everyone did a double-take, "Are you crazy!?" Adagio yelled, "Only if I don't know what to do... which is not the case." Flash growled, "I have to cover Hinata while you guys heal her up." "But don't you need to build energy through fighting to use any skill or spell?" Sweetie asked, "There's another way," Cleo reminded, "Which we need to prepare ourselves. Adagio, Rarity, get your essences and clothes ready. Sweetie Belle, Big McIntosh, follow me." "Actually," Big Mac raised a suggestion, "Just fer this time... may ah throw mah hat into the ring?" "You want to transform too?" Adagio and Rarity spoke in unison, "Using who?" "Hinata's at death's door... y'all need healers badly. Didn't we just get one a few days ago?" Cleo paused, then nodded. "Yes. That would be for the better." She agreed, "Do you know where his room is?" "Eeyup," Big Mac nodded, "Then the three of you get changed now," Cleo commanded, "It's just you and me, Sweetie," "Where are we going?" Sweetie asked as the mentioned three dashed up to the Halidom, "Another emergency summoning?" "No time for that," Cleo responded, picking up Hinata, "We're going to the art gallery. The paintings aren't just for show." "I know what I'm going to be doing," Flash clarified, taking up the halberd. "Flash..." Cleo raised her voice in warning, "I'll fly ahead first. Thin out their numbers before they even get to our bridge," Brunhilda planned, "If I don't intercept them, their numbers may be enough to overwhelm all of us." "Understood, then I'll stay at the entrance... you'd better stay unharmed, Ms M." Flash agreed, "Flash, I'm a dragon. We're the strongest kind out of all life!" Brunhilda scowled, Flash raised an eyebrow and gestured his head towards Cleo and Sweetie, "... Okay." Brunhilda corrected herself, "I'll be careful." "Ms Cleo, Sweetie, take care of Hinata. Okay?" Flash turned around, "I promise." Cleo nodded with determination, "Hinata. Things are going to be okay... I promise you that..." "Heh heh..." Hinata coughed, "You sound like... Euden..." "So says Ms Cleo and Ms M. But honestly? I'm nothing like a prince, let alone one as kind as he is..." "That makes you even more alike..." She laughed softly, "I trust you, Flash..." "Okay, talk time over." Flash shrugged, "Get going!" And with that, the three groups took off. Brunhilda to the skies, Cleo and Sweetie to the Halidom, and Flash to the entrance gates. He put down his weapon and sat on the stone path cross-legged. "Sweetie... Big Mac... Rarity... Ms Cleo... Ms M... even you Adagio..." Flash whispered, "I won't blame you for doing so... but please don't think ill of me if you see what I am about to do." Rarity barged into the Loving Preacher's room and found the preacher's clothes neatly folded on the bed with a fresh smell. They were washed yesterday. "Oh how I hate being rushed," Rarity moaned as she stripped down all her clothes, "But looking your best is wasted if there are none to see it!" She pulled out her blue essence, "Well, here we go again!" Adagio rushed into the Cheerful Merchant's room and did the same thing. After turning into her sylvan alter ego, she groaned at the difference between her own body and Francesca's. Regardless, she quickly put on the merchant's undergarments and clothes and reached for her hat, hanging on the hooks of a coat stand. Big Mac went into the Musical Maestro's room and grabbed his biography. He flipped the pages until he saw the man's full-body portrait. "His outfit's more complicated than Estelle or Franny. And he wears piercings?" Big Mac groaned, feeling his ears, "This is gonna hurt..." He took off his jacket, shirt, and trousers. "But Ah'd rather make mah ears bleed than lettin' a dragon die!" He noticed the gold essence sitting on the Maestro's desk and took it. Under Big Mac's will, the essence changed into a gold staff, "Here goes," Big Mac gulped and pressed the staff onto his chest, causing a burst of light. In the art gallery, Sweetie frantically walked around a bowl of water sitting on top of a small pillar holder right in the middle of the area. Many things were going on in her mind. The state of the dragon named Hinata, the instructions Ms Cleo gave her, the anxiety of waiting for her sister and friends, and of course Flash and Ms M who were braving the front lines, all while Scootaloo's story echoed in-between. "Sweetie!" Estelle rushed into the room with Francesca in pursuit, "We're here." "Thank goodness." Sweetie exhaled, "Okay, I'll make it quick. Ms Cleo said these aren't ordinary paintings. They give numerous blessings to those who need them." "Wait... they can grant power?" Francesca jumped, "Cleo never told me that!" "How does it work? I hope it doesn't involve jumping into them!" Estelle inquired, "Ms Cleo gave me a demonstration. She dipped her hands into this bowl of water and touched one of the paintings." Sweetie recollected, "I take it its not ordinary water?" Estelle asked, "Nope, this is Holy Water. To prove that such a thing is not a scam, just do what Ms Cleo did. Dip them in, then touch a particular painting. She told me that certain paintings should help benefit you specifically. First, she wants you to touch the painting called 'The Chocolatiers', Rarit- I mean Estelle. You'll find it in the Seasonal exhibition where they display the valentine's based artworks. It's gold-framed and has Ms Cleo and three other girls making chocolates. Francesca, Ms Cleo wants you to get 'Resounding Rendition'. It has a singing woman and a man playing the piano behind her. And Big Mac-" "Yes?" A tall and well-refined man walked into the room. The girls turned and looked astounded, "Big Mac!?" Estelle blurted out while blushing, "That's... wow..." Francesca held her nose while looking weak, "Dayummmm..." Sweetie Belle bit her lip and gave a cheeky smile and nod in approval. The man was all dressed in a navy blue shirt, vest, slacks, pointed shoes with copper trims. He wore a long coat of white alongside a cravat nestled upon his neck that flutters at the slightest change of air. But it wasn't just the clothes that were magnificent. The man's face was very supple, lacked freckles. His medium wavy hair housed a wonderful shine, and his eyes were perfectly sharp. If it weren't for the hair, eye, and skin colour, the girls would not have recognised this dashing man to be Big McIntosh; transformed into the Musical Maestro, Vixel. "Oh wow... I... I need to take a photo of you," Estelle spoke, "Applejack and Applebloom would riot!" "Don't," Vixel spoke, "Please," "You're even using that buttery voice back at episode two for my 'Little Steps of a Secret Life'!" Sweetie winced, "You're making my heart race without even trying!" "Do you have anything to say, Adagio Dazzle?" Vixel asked. "No..." Francesca looked away, trying to hide her face, "Just don't look at me..." "But wait..." Estelle peered, "Your ears are really red!" "I..." Vixel groaned, "Give me a break, this is my first time wearing ear piercings. It got messy, so I had to find the bathroom to wash my fingers and ears." The girls giggled, and Vixel sighed as a reaction. "Alright, we had fun." Sweetie laughed, "Anyway... Big Mac... no. Vixel! Yeah, you're the conductor playing that piano. Ms Cleo told me. Speaking of her, she wants you to get your hands wet here and place them on 'New World Escort'. It's located where the silver-framed paintings are, should have a woman wearing blue with hat and feathered skirt, followed with a blond-haired sylvan." "Got it... but uh... the three of us wear gloves and greaves?" Vixel gestured, "... Hurry up and do it," Sweetie frowned, "Ms Cleo brought Hinata near the entrance while getting a staff ready for our new healer. Meet her there once you're done." "Yes Ma'am," The three saluted in unison. With a firm nod, Sweetie ran out of the gallery. "Is it me, or has she become a lot more... forceful?" Vixel asked, "She gets to the point, that's rather mature of her..." Estelle added, then a sudden thought struck her, "Hey wait! Why did you say yes, Francesca!? Normally you would say 'don't tell me what to do!!!' Or something rude as that," "Your sister is more devious than you think," Francesca retorted, "And subtly manipulative... I can sorta relate," Realising they were wasting time talking, the three adventurers took out their gloves or greaves, dipped their hands in the water one by one, and ran off to their respective paintings. Estelle found the artwork meant for her. She found the artwork cute. Ms Cleo teaching three other girls on how to make chocolates. But admiration should come for another time. She looked at her soaked hands. It doesn't feel any different to normal water, and there was no odour from it either. She looked back at the painting. Shaking off any doubt, the preacher pressed her hands directly onto the middle of the painting, while the other two did the same thing. The water on their hands fizzled and bubbled violently, giving a tingling and ticklish sensation to the adventurers as it began to disappear. Estelle immediately pulled her hands away but the water continued fizzing and giving off this weird energy-like light. But as it fizzled and disappeared, Estelle could feel a boost of mana in her body. By the time the fizzing stopped, she noticed that her hands were completely dry, the painting she touched left absolutely no stain or water trail, and her body and mind telling her that her magic tank was full! "This castle has an endless trove of mysteries," Estelle thought to herself as she met up with the others and ventured outside. "Next thing I know is that the Halidom has a hidden treasure guarded by a hidden dragon!" "There you are! About time!" Sweetie spotted the two healers and the dagger-wielding merchant rushing out to the grounds. "Estelle, can you use your healing spell now?" Cleo asked, "As a matter of fact... I somehow can without even having to fight..." Estelle answered as she took a deep breath, channelling the mana given from touching that painting, "Healing Faith!" The hands of prayer gently rest their light upon the wounded dragon, further healing her wounds. "We're not out of the woods yet, but this should extend the time," Estelle assured. "Thank you... so much..." Hinata whispered, her voice slowly coming back. "Now Ms Cleo, about the artworks..." "I will explain their secrets later. Right now, we need to join the front lines." Cleo responded, "Sweetie, can you watch over her?" "But I want to watch the fight!" Sweetie protested, "Not a good idea," Estelle reasoned, "We need to keep Hinata as far from the fiends as possible. They may bypass us for an easy target." "But someone also needs to heal Hinata. As you said, she's not out of the woods." Sweetie suggested, "She has a point," Vixel suggested, "... Fine," Estelle relented, "How far can our healing borders reach?" "Halfway up the first slope, closest to the entrance bridge and gate." Cleo estimated, "Sweetie and Hinata can position themselves there to watch the fight and get the healing." "You got it," Sweetie carefully picked up Hinata, "I'll promise not to get into the fight. Though I'm more than happy to pick up a dagger." "NO," Estelle and Cleo glared, "Just kidding," Sweetie nervously chuckled, Back on the bridge, Flash was deep in meditation and prayer while sitting cross-legged on the grass. His thoughts turn to his memories... he remembers a time when he saw a bunch of young kids ganging up on a single one. Their faces were filled with smirks and grins, kicking the sole kid and filling their air with laughs of mockery. Flash then focused on the girl in the middle. He could hear crying, perhaps sobbing, as if she didn't deserve this at all. Flash tensed his knuckles. All of a sudden, the kid bullies had their eyes glow yellow and transformed into those cloaked fiends in the blink of an eye. As for the bullied girl, she turned into a little dragon; specifically Hinata. "No... I won't let you..." Flash vowed with bitterness in his voice. He opened his eyes. The bridge before him was empty. Not even a single trace of a fiend. His dragon teacher was not back either. She still must be thinning their numbers up ahead. Even so, he's going to get ready anytime soon. But maybe, just maybe... "Flash!" A familiar voice called for him, "Estelle," Flash answered without looking behind him, "And I assume Francesca, Vixel and Ms Cleo?" "Me too," Sweetie joined in, "And I've brought Hinata with us," "Nuts," Flash sighed, "I was hoping that you wouldn't witness this. If the fiends happen to slip through." "To see you fight? We know already." Francesca grouched, "You've shown us that your martial arts are the real serious deal." "Oh no." Flash stood up and picked up his halberd, "This is a different kind of serious. One that really influences my strength... and pretty much everything else." "Just tell us Flash. Stop beating around the bush." Sweetie snapped, "Before you guys knew me at CHS, I wasn't the goofy and nice guy..." "So you being violent was true!?" Estelle exclaimed, hitting an epiphany of Flash's hints, "So Scoots told you when I was unconscious." Flash started stretching, "Even so, I doubt you'd still change your mind if you see me... 'relapse'." "Everyone!" A red dragon yelled from the skies, "I couldn't burn them all... too fast and too much. I'm completely exhausted, I need to rest..." "Ms M," Flash turned to the Flamewyrm, "What are the enemies like?" "Fiends of three different elements soon to approach the bridge. Water, Shadow, and Light. Thankfully there are no flying fiends, but you'll be facing all the fiends we've met so far." Brunhilda answered, "All the fiends? A slime couldn't be that fast..." "I know what you mean." Brunhilda responded, "But those slimes did not look normal... something must have happened to them." "If their speed was enhanced, can their might get enhanced too?" "Likely... it would explain how light fiends could seriously injure a light dragon such as Hinata." "Then that means we need to step it up..." Flash faced forward, "Estelle, Vixel, Ms Cleo. If any enemies slip by, please take them down. If not, I'll let some through that can be easy for you to handle. That way you can heal Hinata up." "Sure," "Francesca? I know you hate being told what to do... but just in case I give it my all, can you fight alongside me?" Flash continued, "Just this once, Flash." Francesca sneered, "But I'd like to know. How much negative energy did you develop from that incident?" "I can't measure such a thing." Flash readied himself, "But I know how to build it up and hold it in. Then let it out when needed." "I'm going to have to rest up," Brunhilda moaned, changing into her human form, "But if there's anything you need to get from me, let me know!" "If there is one thing that I've learned about Flash, nothing tops how frightening he is when he gets serious. When he gets serious, he gets angry. And when he gets angry... he gets smart." Scootaloo spoke, "He doesn't let anger cloud his judgment." "He told me about it." Ms M nodded, "And I assume the three of you know why?" "Flash wasn't the talking type as a child." Mr Sentry explained, "He's one who would go all fisticuffs if someone looks at him funny or just gets him angry. He'd often start punching when getting into arguments, mostly doing more damage than getting hurt himself. Suspended, punished, you understand. Some 'brave' classmate of his chose to play a bad prank on him just to see how he reacts. He scribbled all over Flash's show-and-tell homework with a permanent marker, some coarse language, silly pictures, and possibly some rude comments about the teacher. Flash told me he actually likes the teacher, he would never say anything bad about her behind her back." "That kid has problems," Big Mac lurched, "I agree, but the damage was done. Flash was laughed at by his class and reprimanded by his teacher, unfairly. Needless to say, it tipped him over. So once Flash figured out the culprit, he took a chair and chased him around. We received a call to say Flash was expelled after that incident, even if the kid did confess. Then again, I agree that beating someone with a chair until they were unconscious and bleeding was way out of hand." The teenagers, Cleo, and Ms M dropped their jaws, "We made sure he would never do something like that again. We ended up being strict with him for about two to three months." Mrs Sentry sadly confessed, "He was a problem child?" Sweetie gasped, "Never!!!" Scootaloo and Mrs Sentry defended, then the mother continued. "Even if we don't agree with his actions, we at least understand why. But he promised not to do it again, and we managed to teach him how to deal with bullies in a non-violent way." "Flash moved to my primary school suggested by my mum." Scootaloo took over, "And for sure, he got bullied. But most of them end up without any bloodshed, and he pretty much got the last laugh whenever he and the bullies head off to any of the teacher's offices. It was also the place where I started to connect and learn more about my family friend. We played together in the playground, we studied a little together, sat and ate our lunches together, alongside going over to each other's house, probably my first ever sleepover buddy. He was really clumsy and funny but he was sweet and I wanted to spend more time with him; even if we were in different grades and classes. Then I saw that side of him. From the kind and forgiving person I know, he turned into a merciless vigilante." Flash took a deep breath, puffing out his chest. As he exhaled, his body released some blue sparks for everyone to see. Flash did it again, with the same result. "I can sense them..." Brunhilda warned, "They will come right about... now." A black miasma enveloped the forest path, teeming with glowing emotionless eyes. One by one, slimes, goblins and hounds of the three mentioned colours emerged from the viscous fog. Flash widened his eyes at their intimidating sight, then narrowed it down into an unforgettable glare. The teenage boy took a deep breath for the third time. This time sparks of yellow flew out his body instead of blue. Everyone could feel its charge, perhaps a few tufts of their hair sticking up, and the sound of electrical crackling was louder than normal. "Is this Flash's mana?" Sweetie asked, "Yes." Cleo nodded, "It's natural for one's emotions to influence their mana. And after learning about his story... he's sure to control this spike." "So one day, Flash invited me over to Sunday School. Despite what people say, it's quite intriguing yet fun at the same time! When we were done, Mr and Mrs Sentry still had the service ongoing, so we told them we'll go home first. But as we passed by a small play area, a bunch of classmates my year surrounded us. The group actually invited me to play with them a few days ago, but I declined because it happened on the same day Flash invited me, and he invited me first. They didn't take it very kindly when they found out I turned them down for Church. And... judging what they were about to do. I can say they were extremely prejudiced against religion in general." Scootaloo looked down, and everyone gasped. "No... did they hurt you?" Sweetie fearfully inquired, "Do you want me to take over Scoots?" Mrs Sentry asked, "No... thanks." Scootaloo smiled back, then looked to Sweetie, "Yes. They jumped me, bruises and all, left me crying. Flash first stood in the way, but the ringleader of the kids punched his stomach without him getting ready for it, so he went down. But once he was able to stand up, and see what was going on. He snapped the moment he saw me harmed and crying..." "By Ilia..." Cleo cursed under her breath, "My 'classmates' hurt me. But Flash? Even after that stomach blow, he left them far worse." A Spark Hound charged ahead of his pack. Its eyes and face were not focused on the lone lancer in front of him, but the sight of the bleeding dragon on the hill, cradled by a human. Flash could tell what the hound's priorities were too. The lone Light-attuned fiend rushed forward for its prey as its instincts told him, but choosing to ignore the fighter earned him an axe flying through its mouth, cutting its fangs, between its teeth, and straight through the rest of its body. The hound buckled over and lay splat on the ground; horizontally split in two. "Don't screw with me..." Flash turned back to the horde. "If you want to claim this dragon's life... you've got to claim mine first!" The horde said nothing, but their gazes upon the injured dragon began to falter. "Face me! COME ON!" Flash roared, as loud as a dragon. "Remember when I said he becomes smart when he's angry? That was shown in how he fought. He didn't just focus on raw power and rage. He constantly kept an eye on those who surround him. Of course, he always got knocked down and then some, but he wasn't as stunned from the first time. He retaliated, tenfold what he took. Two kids if I remember, got socked in the ribs just once, and they never stood back up." The horde charged, wave by wave. The hounds and the slimes were the first to advance. Flash acknowledged that the slimes' speed was faster compared to the ones at the Dornith Mountains, but it didn't hamper his spirit at all. The first slime who dared got close to him was booted like a football off the bridge. Then, he swung the axe-part of the halberd through the slime crowd, decapitating any slime that has gone by, and breaking every jar with a single slice or stab. One of the hounds decide to pounce at Flash, but he delivered a counter punch that sent him flying off the bridge. Flash wanted to pause for a moment, to just contemplate how his punch could send a fiend as large and heavy as a wolf flying. But he remembered that as long as there are fiends around, he can't let them through. If he does, then Hinata... "You didn't forget about me! Did you?" Francesca zipped over and cut down the rest of the hounds and slimes that got past. "Francesca... Adagio..." "Your way of taking down an army is fearsome, and that awakens a hunger I haven't felt for a long time. Too bad I can't feed on it anymore, so my alternative way to nourish that is by fighting alongside you." Francesca responded, tackling a hound and tipping it off the bridge, "Thanks..." Flash nodded, hooking a slime and swung it at the horde. "But I want you to remember something when you fight." "I've got two big ears tucked in this hat willing to hear," Francesca chuckled, "Oh yeah, and not to mention that he used anything to his advantage. The fences, the playground equipment. Oh and given that he's very fancy with his legs, he must have started his martial arts already. If he were to be serious and angry now, he'd probably use this mana to his advantage!!!" "Check it out!!!" Sweetie observed while applying some healing balm (fetched by a tired Ms M) on the dragon, "Some fiends have passed through the two of them!!!" "True to his word..." Vixel nodded, "I'm even surprised he's gotten Francesca to agree with him! They're only letting through the Purple fiends... which means they're shadow based, and you and I are healers of light!" "He truly is something. Few could use their anger to bolster their strength without any tell of weakness." Cleo smiled, "In that case, are you all prepared?" "Let's teach those brutes a lesson they won't soon forget!" Estelle nodded with determination, "Especially you Vixel. Do you know how to use a staff?" "I remember Estelle's motion back in the forest." Big Mac tapped his staff. It was a common Staff of Affection, but it would do. "And do you know his healing skill?" "I did the whole focus thing as Estelle did on her first time, but I still managed to figure out its name. It's rather interesting, seeing the Prince of this Halidom in Vixel's view. No doubt he was a charismatic man." He glares at the incoming fiends, "Now I am fully prepared. Yes, let's get going!" "Take them down!" Sweetie cheered, giving a thumbs-down taunt. The three healers marched forward, slinging out their slow but power-packed orbs at the straggling shadow slimes. Even Estelle and Vixel were brave to use their own staffs for a melee weapon. Whereas the Loving Preacher would slap her foes to no end, the Musical Maestro seemed to have some familiarity with swordplay! "I read his bio. It is said that in his troubled past, he has learned to wield a blade or sword. I was able to bring use his experience to the foray," Vixel noted, "Okay..." Cleo shot down a few more slimes, "This should be enough for me. Elder Cure!" A rejuvenating green light exploded in every fighter and dragon, healing any acquired wounds and giving them a youthful feeling. Then it was Estelle's turn, "Healing Faith!" Estelle chanted, The green, floating, praying hands came back a second time, resting their palms on the wounded dragon. "All her wounds are nearly gone now!" Sweetie reported, "Then one last spell should do the trick," Vixel cleared his throat and announced his spell, "Spirited Song!" From his staff, seven musical staves flew out from Vixel's staff and travelled through the air in presto tempo, leaving behind a trail of notes as each flew into the ears of every adventurer. Within their minds, the sounds of a grand orchestra performed for their brain. It was staggering, mesmerising, and one could say that the instruments, as well as the conductor, truly filled their piece with spirit. Hearing such motivating music had stimulated everyone's recovery. But this time, it brought something else... "Ahh... looks like Vixel's healing spell has a regenerative effect," Cleo spoke, "The perfect spell for this occasion!" "Regen? Ah! You mean healing over time!" Sweetie clarified, "Sweet!" "Vixel's healing magic is like music to one's ears," Francesca noted, "Not bad... I actually like it!" "Looks like the three of them got their healing powers. In the nick of time too..." Flash replied, still focused on the invading fiends. "You were getting a bit tired there..." "Well, you got hurt during the process!" Francesca called out, "And speaking about enemies, we've cleared the slimes and hounds, but we've got the goblins, basilisks and gobmancers and healers... this is endless!" "Then stand back Francesca, I've got my skill ready..." Flash warned, sliding his spearhead on the bridge, "And mark my words, this is no ordinary cannon anymore." The spearhead was charged with yellow energy instead of blue, similar to how Flash's initial blue sparks changed. But when he held the spear up and towards the oncoming horde, the merchant could feel a violent shockwave emanating from the spear... "Luminescent Cataclysm!" "Luma what-" The spear fired a giant yellow beam, covering the entire walkway of the bridge and catching all the fiends upon it. Francesca, the three healers, and even Sweetie and Hinata were swept off their feet from such a shock wave. But the teenage boy firing that laser stood firm, strong, unrelenting and fierce like the expression upon his face. The giant beam lingered for five seconds before it ran out of energy and died down. The bridge was completely empty of fiends, not even a trail of disintegration was left. And the black miasma occupying the other side? Reduced to billowing smog. Flash took a knee after that skill, drained immensely of his mana. Everyone behind him was devastated, even Ms M who came out just at the right time to witness the teenager's power. "Flash... just..." Francesca stammered, "What you just did... you could give Starswirl a run for his bits!" "Complete decimation..." Vixel spoke, awestruck. "Is it over?" Sweetie yelled out, "No..." Flash yelled back, examining the miasma's remnants, "I can feel one more enemy up ahead." The smog subsided and revealed a Giant Tawny Lizardman with his shield raised and that pesky blue hexagonal dome around it. "The commander of that horde..." Flash observed, "Bigger than the others..." "Hold it Flash," Estelle and the rest of the healers ran up, "You've done extremely well..." "Hinata?" "Her wounds are no longer fatal," Vixel reported, "She's in good hands now." "I'm glad..." Flash gave a sigh of relief, "You said it wasn't over," Cleo warned, "So let's take it from here. Are you up for it Francesca?" "If it's just a single enemy, we can do this." Francesca stretched her legs, "Flash needs to take his rest," "Don't get cocky!" Flash warned as the four charged on the enemy, "He may hold some nasty surprise!" "So yeah, once I was able to move a muscle without pain, I called Mr and Mrs Sentry. By the time I put the phone away, almost every one of them was flattened. One particular kid chose to stay back out of Flash's fight. Once he was the last boy standing, he began pleading and begging for forgiveness and apologies." "By the time we received the call, the two of us hurried towards the park as fast as we could... and we saw our son holding him by the collar, ready to deliver a knockout blow. I was about to yell to say stop, but... Flash didn't punch him. He lowered his fist then softly lowered him." Mr Sentry continued, "His words to that boy was 'Don't you dare jump on her again. If I find out that you did, I won't hold back, even if you got on all fours.'" Mrs Sentry finished, "Seeing him beat up several kids was just as traumatic the first time I learned about what he did in his previous school, but when we demanded what was going on, he was honest. And this time... I felt relieved, maybe a little proud." "How can you be proud of a son who commits violent acts?" Cleo raised an eyebrow, "He admitted that he beat them down because they beat me up, and why they beat me up. I was a witness so I could support what he said." Scootaloo explained, "And then Flash went on to say he accepted his punishment, and even went forward to ask to fix their wounds." "What he did to that child long ago was very unforgivable without punishment. This? Still unforgivable without punishment. However, he did it to stand up for his friend, and there is no way I'll let him and myself forget that, even if his methods violate the law." Mr Sentry responded. "Though if Flash was meant to kill... then it would be a different story." "Everyone has the right to their own opinion," Mrs Sentry spoke, "But to convert that opinion into beating up dear Scoots is too far. Even more when she's not the one deserving of their prejudice." "But all in all, I think I learned what makes Flash tick after hearing his past," Scootaloo smiled, "After he got kicked out of his old school and getting disciplined by Mr and Mrs Sentry. If you hurt or mock him, he'll laugh it off as he does now. Hurt or mock those he cares about? He will retaliate..." Cleo and Estelle simultaneously launched their force strikes, piercing the Giant Lizardman's dome with ease. Exposed, Francesca set-up the lizardman with a flurry of slashes across its torso, ready to Vixel to deliver three sharp thwacks on its scale-covered skull. Enraged, the Lizardman nimbly lept back then lunged forward, catching the Maestro in the chest. "Urk!" Vixel staggered back keeled over, "This is a first! To get stabbed in the chest!" "Watch out!" Francesca snapped, dropkicking Vixel away from the lizardman's downward swinging tail! "Ouch..." Vixel moaned, slowly getting back up, "A simple push with the hands would do." "You're welcome!" Francesca retorted while parrying every strike of the Lizardman, distracting it from the firepower of the healers fighting from a distance. "Thanks," Vixel smiled, "As for these wounds, I can fix them. Spirited Song!" He cast his spell just as the Lizardman swung his sword at him and deflected the slash immediately. "Look at them," Flash laughed and smiled, "They're not afraid anymore." "You really do value your friends, even with that serious side to you." Ms M laughed. With Sweetie and Hinata following behind, "Ms M..." Flash asked, "Would you fear me now that you saw what I was like before?" "You should probably ask your kind that question..." Ms M placed a hand on his shoulder, "I'm a dragon, there very few things that I share a fear alongside humans. Your own angry and serious form is fearsome, but it doesn't come close to the horrors I've seen. Moreover, the important thing is that we know WHY you get angry, all six of us. If people knew that, they'd be less scared of you. I've never seen my darling get as angry as you, but I know that he would get serious when it comes to fighting for things he cares about." "Still comparing me to the Prince," Flash chuckled, "Get used to it," Ms M massages his shoulders, "Woah! Hey! that feels nice." Flash sighed, "No moaning weirdly, you hear me?" Ms M warned, "Then what do you think Sweetie?" Flash asked, "Do you fear me? Am I scary?" "We'll talk after the battle is over," Sweetie raised a finger to her lips, "But I still think you're a good man like I said two days ago." "By the way... I'm still boggled about the lizardman." Ms M changed the topic, "How so?" Flash inquired, "You remember when I told you that they were too fast for me? You should have noticed," "Yeah, I do..." "Well... I felt an uneasy form of black mana seeping into their bodies. It would explain why they were stronger and faster than before." "And why?" "I can feel black mana oozing out of this one." Ms M pointed, "But I swear that the name is at the tip of my tongue..." "Hang on... oozing with black mana???" Sweetie chimed in, "But... I don't see it oozing with black mana..." "You know these types of fiends, Sweetie?" Flash asked, "Of course! Francesca, Ms Cleo and I were walking in Myriage Lake when we came across three of those oozing black mana fiends. I believe they were called 'Menaces'. They posed a big threat because not only were they strong, they could even nullify Francesca's essence and turn her back to Adagio. Ms Cleo was unaffected because the mana was her own." "Oh yeah! That's what they were called! Thanks, Sweetie!" Ms M thanked, "Very interesting. Everything we learn about fiends is important. We should be careful with these enemies from now on." Flash nodded in gratitude. The three (plus Hinata who was listening) laughed and smiled for a brief second... "Pull out, you four! Retreat!!!" Flash desperately howled at the fighters, "Don't fight it any further!" Ms M commanded, "Be careful sis! That fiend's a menace!!!" Sweetie warned with panic, "RUN!!!" Hinata yelled, "Menace!?" Estelle, Francesca and Cleo froze, "What's a menace?" Vixel asked. As an answer, the Giant Tawny Lizardman tensed its muscles and breathed a thick haze of black upon the four. Hastily, the fiend dived in with its sword raised high. Painful roars and grunts followed. The spectators could only watch in horror as the haze subsided. The Fiend was covered in purple smoke, towering above bloodied bodies, and one hanging on its sword. Only Cleo was barely standing, using her Elder Cure skill just in time to keep them alive. "NOOO!" Sweetie, Flash, Ms M and Hinata were all horrified and surprised. Then Flash, seeing his newfound friends defeated, snaps once more. "We need to get them out..." Flash growled, "Then I'm going to kill it!!!" "Wait Flash!" Hinata spoke out, "Let me distract it! I've rested and healed enough to go back to fighting!" "Are you sure?" Flash turned around, "Yes." Ms M nodded, "And I have a proposition for you Flash. I want this fiend gone as much as you do. So can you listen to my plan?" "I'm listening," Flash nodded, "In the end..." Scootaloo continued, "Flash got scolded and in trouble again. But he did do his best to clean and patch up their wounds alongside Mr and Mrs Sentry. Even I chipped in. Then he went to apologise to the kids and the parents. Oh for sure, they were furious from what happened, even Flash was afraid. However... they didn't sue him or press charges against Flash. It's because Mr Sentry's a lawyer, and I'm sure that they know their kids were in the wrong, doing something like that." "I HATE that my occupation is used as a form of intimidation." Mr Sentry growled, "I only just gave them my business card because they brought up the idea of going to court and they froze." "Even you were a little angry that your best friend's daughter was beaten up. And your expression when talking with them showed it." Mrs Sentry added, "That's why they thought challenging you was a bad idea." "You are a rough family... no offence," Sweetie frowned, "And we were rough on him too. After that, he's learned never to raise a fist when someone he knows and cares for gets insulted or framed. And no more trouble popped up from him anymore." "I remember..." Rarity witnessed, "One of our friends was accused of trashing the gymnasium and preventing her from entering the fall formal, but he managed to gather up evidence and clear her name." "And she won the formal." Big Mac smiled, "Flash, you truly are a joy in the world." Adagio was pushed off the fiend's blade and fell down with a nasty plop... She groaned. Her body was pierced, her clothes were tight again, and then there's that annoying smoke and light billowing from her heart. It was such a miracle that she was still alive, but not for long she thought. She looked towards her and saw Rarity and Big McIntosh lying motionless on the floor. They too were bloodied and wearing clothes that didn't fit their sizes and had that light stained with black blotches on their chests where their heart was. "Adagio!" Cleo called, "You need to take these two to safety!" "Argh!" Adagio grumbled in pain, "I... can't... move!" "I'm holding it back," Cleo continued, holding the Lizardman's blade with her staff, "Just... try!" "Got it..." Adagio winced, feeling pain as she pushes herself up thanks to that wound. It was lucky that her legs were still working. She hobbled over to her two allies and slowly tugged on them... "No... they're too heavy for me!" Adagio shook her head, "I can't..." Her face dropped when she saw her guardian pushed to the bridge's edge, and thrown over. "CLEO!" Adagio shrieked. After that, her eyes went dim, her face went pale. The lizardman now has its sights set on her and began marching forward. The siren couldn't do anything now. She knew she was going to die. But then she looked at the two she was trying to tug... seems she won't be alone. But even so... Instinctively, Adagio sat their bodies up, wrapped an arm around each, and held them tightly. Adagio had never done something like this in her life. Not once had she embraced her sisters, let alone her enemies. And yet... her sisters had been long missing, and her caretaker tossed to her death. Those two, enemy and irrelevant human scum, were the closest thing she had left. She tightened her grip. Tearfully waiting for her demise... "I won't let you touch them!" A shining veil of flame halted the Giant Tawny Lizardman's advance. Stirred, the fiend raised his shield against the shining breath of an able-bodied dragon. "I won't let you terrorise them any longer!" Hinata vowed, The Lizardman sneered and readied its sword, but not until a loud roar broke its focus. To its side, Brunhilda flapped her wings, carrying Cleo in her claws. "You're alive!" Adagio scowled in relief, "I can't believe it..." "No one dares to throw a trusted ally of mine over the cliff..." Brunhilda carefully dropped the shaken Cleo by Adagio's side. "We need to make this quick," Flash warned, "We're fighting for their lives!" "Woah Woah Woah!" Adagio raised an eyebrow, "Are you?" "Adagio!" Sweetie reached the group, "Thank Goddess you're still breathing!" "Never mind that!" Adagio rudely pointed, "Is the idiot RIDING Brunhilda!?" "I am," Flash nodded, adjusting his posture and seating on the Flamewyrm's shoulders, "And we're shutting this thing down!" "Hold on Flash, here I go!!!" Brunhilda roared, rising to the air with another intimidating roar, "Ready yourself!" she commanded, and Flash held out his weapon. Brunhilda swooped down against the Great Lizardman and banked to the right. Then she turned around and dived once more, banking to the left. To Adagio, Hinata, and Sweetie's surprise, the menacing Giant Lizardman had been disarmed; the sword, the shield, and the claws holding them. "Got it!" Flash yelled as he looked down below and saw the Lizardman roaring and screeching in pain. "Then it's time for the finishing blow. Off my shoulders, onto my hand!" "You mean claws," Flash corrected as he got up and hopped down onto her claw. "Whatever. Assume the position!" Brunhilda grouched. Flash held the lance in front of his face, then Brunhilda grabbed his entire body and held him like he was a spear himself. "Are you sure you want to do this?" Brunhilda rasped, "The mana of Grastaea has pushed my body's limits beyond what I can imagine." Flash replied, "I'll come out unscathed with this. I'm more worried about your accuracy." "I won't let my students down." Brunhilda twisted her torso and pointed her other claw at the menacing fiend, "Surely you don't aim to do that!" Cleo watched, "Go long!" Brunhilda roared and threw the teenager downwards. "Raaaahhhh!!!" Flash emitted a loud warcry as he hurled towards his target. His body let loose yellow sparks and glowed in yellow as his entire body combined with his spear turned into one brilliant yellow bolt. The menace desperately raised his head and spat out the menacing haze from before, enveloping Flash in its smog. But Flash shot through the haze, and drove himself and the spike on his lance straight into the Fiend's throat, "Nice Try..." Flash thought to himself, "...But this mana and power are my own! You can't get rid of it!!!" "But after that incident, word spread throughout the primary school and everyone. Whether they were students below or above him, even teachers. They kept well away from him if they had the choice. When Flash asks for any spare stationery, anyone close to him would give it straight away, maybe even ask him to keep it. And they would fearfully decline if Flash offers one. For any PE activities, he was first picked because whoever's the captain doesn't want to feel the 'Wrath of Flash'. It took everyone about a month and a half for the kids and teachers to see that Flash isn't so scary if no one picks on me. Once someone got brave enough to prank him, and he laughs it off or tells the teacher, they eased up. But for sure, I bet they wished never to see him again. Maybe when people grow older and laws started becoming more strict, he was frowned upon." "Who knew Flash was the tough guy in his primary school years? When he's not dancing or on the guitar, he's the calmest person in CHS!" Rarity responded, "But going to that Sunday School, alongside being family friends, had given me something to remember from that day. We all have emotions that people may not like to see, but even the most fierce man has feelings too, and I'm sure some people would regret hurting others like Flash. He apologised to me if I had scared him in any way... and honestly? He didn't need to in the first place. He stood up for me, and after we got to know each other rather than be family friends. But regardless, he promises to continue adjusting that serious behaviour." "... Okay, I'll admit it." Adagio broke the silence, "He doesn't sound so dull anymore." "As I said, Flash was going to tell you about this. But even if he was still conscious, he'd get worried and afraid about telling you, and that clouds his judgement. He really trusts the four of you ever since you stumbled into the hidden land. Remember, he doesn't go berserk unless its someone he truly cares about. I'm helping him to adjust his ways even today, but I also accept him for who he is. Would the four of you do it as well?" Flash picked himself up from the ground and dusted his body. He looked down to see that his menacing enemy has long been disintegrated, his halberd lying down where it used to lay, except... "I'm sorry Ms M," Flash picked up the lance with one hand, and a broken spike with the other. "I broke the weapon you gave me," "It's fine," Brunhilda laughed, landing and changing back to Mym, "I've learned how to repair it, and I'll do it without any charge." "Ms Cleo? Sweetie? Adagio? You okay?" "Holy crap... you were terrifying and self-sacrificing..." Adagio coughed, "If the other two were still conscious, they would have got a heart attack!" "After everything you did and was done to you, you've definitely given me a heart attack Flash..." Sweetie glared, "Right..." Flash bent down and placed Rarity's arm over his shoulder, "Can you help me, Sweetie?" "Of course..." Sweetie quickly hopped and slung Rarity's other arm over hers, as well as pick up the Loving Hand, "I may not be in good shape, but I can pick up Adagio..." Cleo stumbled, "Let me help!" Hinata volunteered, and shifted into her human form, "I can take the load!" "You and I need to talk, Hinata." Mym glared, hoisting Big McIntosh up like a princess, "But after we get these three healed and cleaned," Everyone needed to take a bath. After Adagio, Rarity, and Big McIntosh were cleansed and healed, the group took a long soak in theirs. Flash admitted (to himself) that it felt really good. "..." Flash looked in the water, seeing his own reflection. "Flash? Y'okay?" Big Mac noted, "I should be asking you that..." Flash looked back up, "You were almost going to die. This is the second time." "Well thank the Goddess... and the others," Big Mac smiled, "Yeah, really..." Flash looked away. Big Mac looked concerned, but he knew why. After the bath, the group met in the kitchen, with Cleo preparing a new take on pumpkin soup for everyone. "Oh boy, my mum and dad are going to kill me when they find out we did this. I promised them not to get into any fights," Flash grumbled, "Flash, is there something you want to tell us?" Rarity asked, "Ah... right... are you sure?" Flash raised an eyebrow, "Scoots may have told us everything, but I'd like to hear it from you." Sweetie answered, "I mean we know your childhood story." "Yep," Flash sighed, "That childhood story was true, I had hoped I wouldn't show it but... just seeing Hinata being hurt by those fiends... And then you three... I couldn't stand it. Then again, I would have to tell you sooner or later... sucks that I had to demonstrate it." "Flash..." Rarity reached out and grabbed his hand, with Sweetie grabbing the other, "The girls and I talked about it, and as your classmates, Big Mac included... we're sorry about the times we've made fun of you. Can you forgive us?" "Even the lightest of jokes at other people's expense can weigh heavily," Flash shook his head, "But it is forgiven. Mostly because I have something to apologise for too," "And?" "I want to say sorry for not being fully honest or transparent to you. As Scootaloo told you, I didn't have many friends because of what I did. People feared to get close to me, but I to them. So that's why I worked on being a chill and nice guy. But even if we said to others that we were friends, deep inside I couldn't accept that if I didn't tell you what I was back then." Flash lowered his head, "And there you go again, being Modest." Adagio groaned, "Look at me, idiot. What you did, you did for someone else. Me, Aria and Sonata? We did it for ourselves to become powerful and controlling. What you did is 'noble', despite how brutal you can get." "I hate to say it," Rarity smiled, "But I agree with Adagio. Thanks to Scootaloo, we know how and why you get angry. And because of that, we do still like you for who you are." "Whether you're a goofball or a gremlin, you caring for others never changed one bit. Though of course... we'd be happy to lend a hand for you to change..." Big Mac chuckled, "Really?" Flash raised his eyebrow again, "Come on Flash!" Sweetie laughed, "Scootaloo and your parents shouldn't be the only ones to keep an eye on you. We should too!" "And to do that, it means becoming friends!" Rarity concluded, "You guys..." "We'll be friends. Always... and of course, you can too Adagio!" Big Mac laughed, "Yeeah... how about no?" Adagio gritted, "Really?" Ms M and Flash giggled, "Then why were you hugging Rarity and Big Mac when you were at death's door?" "Argh!" Adagio blushed, "I should have known that you noticed!" "Don't forget about me Flash!" Hinata squeaked, "I've saved you before, and you've saved me back! I would be more than happy to be friends with you and spend lots of time together! Will you?" "I can't say no to that either, Hinata... which reminds me. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for saving my life." Flash smiled, And everyone began laughing. As they did, Sweetie took a while to breathe and look at her sister, her friends, her teacher, Ms Cleo, and the little dragon. After everything they've been through, she's noticed that she's learned a whole lot about others when in this place. Especially Flash Sentry... who knew that he was Scootaloo's closest family friend? Normally, if someone rarely talks about another, then that someone wouldn't care so much, and yet Scootaloo never told her about it and she still loves him! Now, she can definitely see why. Although... "Thank you so much for taking care of Flash by the way." Mr Sentry thanked, "It's great to see that he has friends and teachers caring for him." "Well, he's helped us too." Rarity chuckled, "Who says we can't be friends just because he helped us a few times?" "Hey... Sweetie?" Scootaloo tugged, "Yeah?" Sweetie turned around, "Lower your voice a little," Scootaloo tugged her friend a distance away, "Why?" "This is important. You are my bestest friend, and I really like you more than you think. You and Applebloom." "Of course! The same for me!" "No... I like all of you the most!" Scootaloo persisted, "Okay, I get it... so is that the most important thing?" "Do you want to know why I rarely talk about him to the two of you?" "No?" "Because I don't want you to get involved. I was ready to take on others, but who knew it would first be you!" "What do you mean?" Scootaloo gripped Sweetie's hand hard, "He's mine. Understand?" The Foolish Fighter The End Next Up: The ?????'? ???? ????