//------------------------------// // Chapter 29: The Dragon Soar to Heaven // Story: The Mystics History // by JusSonic //------------------------------// [Enter Three Kingdoms Theme Song] Twilight Sparkle and her friends screamed wildly as they entered into the Book of Ages. As they landed on the ground, they came across the Ancient Land of Ma. They all entered it as they're ready to face it. They witnessed the land was in turmoil as Imperial Court argued with each other while civil war broke out between peasants, rebels, imperials, warriors, nobles, warlords, ministers and even the Emperor. Stallion: Through the storm, Through the darkness, The once peaceful kingdom Lost its Love and Harmony Turn into grief despair Virtue Dragon, Blade Dragoon and Warpath Temper prayed and bowed down before the altar as they make a vow of sworn brotherhood. They joined up with various brave and compassion warriors in journeying across the land to help troubled ponies. Azure Phoenix stood on the Imperial Palace's entrance as he held his sword up high proudly as his Imperial Phoenix Army. His army cheered wildly and proudly. They all went from territory to territory for conquest and control of the land. Claw Tiger smiled proudly as he led his Tiger Warriors to deal with rebels. As he was dying, Claw Tiger passed the sword to his eldest son, Brave Tiger. Brave Tiger led his warriors in reclaiming Wuhu River for his clan. As he died, he passed to Courage Tiger as the new Leader of Kingdom. Stallion: The destiny is now yours To change its course and fate. Heaven and Earth chose you to fulfill its purpose Virtue Dragon helped ponies as well as showing kindness and compassion. His warriors of Western Dragon Kingdom fought bravely and determinedly to defend the innocent. Stallion: A hero with benevolent heart Desires a land of virtue. Azure Phoenix recruited more of warriors and strategists under his banner. He led the Imperial Phoenix Kingdom army across the land for conquest and world domination of empire. Stallion: A hero with great ambition Desired a land of power and talents Courage Tiger was in great doubt and pain about his past. Nevertheless, he stood proudly on Water Tiger military naval ship, along with others. He was leading them to defend his home. Stallion: A hero with courageous fangs Desired a land of unity. Three kingdoms marched into the battlefield as they all charged into it as they began battled with each other fiercely and firmly. Stallion: Pray its Terror Ends, Hope the Peace Returns Twilight Sparkle and her friends witnessed the holographic form of history records about the heroes and villains from Qin Dynasty Era into the Three Kingdoms Era. They were amazed and shocked, but sometimes angered and upset while others - pained and despair. Stallion & Chorus: Oh, Great Warriors of the Heaven Save us from the Demon God's Hell May you guide us to Paradise Land Where no blood shall ever shed again Azure Phoenix and Han Zero stood before Royal Sisters. Both sides held each other hooves for the moment before the princesses disappeared from sights, including Han Zero. Azure Phoenix slowly turned and faced his two biggest rivals - Virtue Dragon and Courage Tiger. Three Rulers held anc crossed each other's their swords up proudly. It created the magical aura forms of Greenish Dragon, Bluish Phoenix and Crimson Tiger stood up and roared wildly as the mightiest warriors in Land of Ma! Stallion & Chorus: Whenever we're in grave danger, You braved to bring us home Your deeds will not be Forgotten Your Tale becomes Legend My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic - Mystic History Written by JusSonic and Power Master -------------------------------------------- Chapter 29: The Dragon Soar to Heaven "Azure Phoenix's Ambition had been swallowed in the sea of crimson flames," Narrator narrated, "However, he will not abandon his quest. Not until he seized the land that he has fought so long and hard for. One night after he safely returned to Jing Province's Palace, Azure Phoenix received a unusual yet forewarning vision in his dream..." After Azure Phoenix and his units have safely returned to Jing Province's Palace, all of them are fed and slept now. Azure Phoenix was in his bed chamber as he was sleeping peacefully and calmly. He grunted in frustration as he struggled trying to get good sleep like he's having a nightmare... -------------------------------------------- Dream: Azure Phoenix, alone, standing on his main flagship as he witnessed the destruction of his navy force. Most of his fleets have engulfed in flames by the hails of fire arrows. He can hear the screams and shouts for help from his soldiers as most of them were drowned into the sea, burnt alive or shot down by arrows. He was in deep shock and scared of what he just witnessed. He still could not believe that the most powerful warlord like him could have lose to weak like Virtue Dragon and Courage Tiger. The flames grew larger and engulfed him alive. But for some reason, it did not burn him alive. As soon as the flames dispersed, he found Rhino Armor was standing before the hails of fire arrows. He held his hooves out like he's a shield. Unfortunately, he got shot on his chest. Azure Phoenix turned to his back as he found his trusted advisor Schemetrick was coughing and wheezing as he was trapped within the sea of flames. He then found his father - Dr Phoenix was running for his life but trapped by flames before he got stabbed by his enemy soldiers. "No! No! Noooooooo!" Azure Phoenix shouted in fear and shock as he was trying to reach them, "Father! Rhino Armor! Schemetrick!" Instead of reaching them, the flames have engulfed three important ponies alive. But soon, it was replaced by frightened and worried Jing Province Ponies. They quivered and shivered in fear upon looking at Azure Phoenix. "Oh no! It's him! It's the Demon Lord!" Jing Province Peasant cried in fear as he and his fellow peasants panicked and quickly ran off at once. He shouted, "Lord Virtue Dragon! Save us!" The peasants were soon burnt into ashes. They then formed into a familiar figure as he swung and aimed his Blue Crescent Dragon Blade at Azure Phoenix's throat, which shocked and scared him a lot. "Blade... Dragoon..." Azure Phoenix said in shock and fear. Blade Dragoon approached to Azure Phoenix as he muttered darkly, "Some day soon, your head will be mine..." And just before Azure Phoenix could speak, Blade Dragoon has turned into ashes again. He has arrived at the destruction and burnt site of unknown town, filled with the death of thousand ponies including Mane Five, Spike, Cutie Mark Crusaders, Starlight, Sunset, Student Six, Ben, Princess Celestia and even his children. He then looked up and found Twilight was standing on top of the tree's trunk. "Twilight?" Azure Phoenix asked in concern. "No..." Twilight said darkly as she slowly turned and gave him dark yet scary glare. She chuckled evilly, "Midnight Sparkle. I owe it to you, my master. And you were right. I would be better off with the friends like them. With so much power and dark magic, I can do anything I wanted. I'm loving it! No one will stop me. No one will hold me back. And nothing can stop me now." Azure Phoenix was horrified and shocked. He shook his head, "No! No! This isn't right. This is not her! This is cannot be Twilight I've known and trusted for life!" Midnight Sparkle smirked darkly, "Because of you and your harsh 'teaching', I finally understand the words now." "Don't say it! Please..." Azure Phoenix pleaded. Midnight Sparkle smirked, "I rather betray the world, then let the world betray me. It's the best line I ever heard!" She chuckled evilly, scared and shocked Azure Phoenix a lot. She smirked while readying her magical power, "Goodbye, my master..." And just before Azure Phoenix could react, Midnight fired her magic power at him. He groaned in pain before screamed out loud. He was slowly burnt into nothingness. Dream Ends -------------------------------------------- "My lord? My lord, wake up." Azure Phoenix groaned in pain and tiredness. He slowly opened his eyes as he was waking up. He then found his cousin One-Eyed Anger was looking at him. He grunted in frustration as he slowly get up and sat up straight. Azure Phoenix yawned out loud, "I was dreaming." "Really?" Anger asked in surprise, "I thought you were depressed by Red Cliff, but I see you're relaxed enough to nap." Azure Phoenix sighed, "There is no point... in crying now. Now it's time for rest, for eating, sleeping and training... For our next battle..." Anger hummed in thinking, "I'm guessing we're retreating now. No point of fighting back?" "Indeed. I regret for not listening to Twilight's advice from the start of our campaign against Virtue Dragon. I have underestimated my enemies. I've made terrible mistakes." Azure Phoenix said regretfully, "If only Rhino and Schemetrick were alive, theirs and Twilight's would become more formidable power enough to overcome them." "I know you miss them. So do I. But no point of regretting, we just have to try and win the battle again. Next time, we will be victorious." "Yes. You are right. Next time, we'll be better." "What are your orders, my lord?" Anger asked. Azure Phoenix sighed calmly, "By dawn, we must return to Xuchang Palace. Armorstrike, Strict Stalker and Axen will remain behind to guard Jing Province. I am entrusting the defense to them." Anger nodded firmly, "Understood, cousin. What about Twilight and her friends?" Hearing the name scared and shocked him a bit, Azure Phoenix took a deep breath and sighed, "Take them with us. I don't want them facing their own friends." "Huh? That's not like you." Anger asked in surprise. Azure Phoenix sighed, "I wish I could explain it. But I'm still not certain. For now, retreat." Anger nodded, "Understood." -------------------------------------------- By dawn, the Imperial Phoenix Army have woken up early. Azure Phoenix and most of his forces including Twilight and her friends have gathered at northern gate of Jing Province's Palace. Armorhide, Strict Stalker and Axen stood before their lord. The Lord of Imperial Phoenix Army passed the small pouch to Armorhide. "Armorhide, your responsibility is to defend the Jing Province's Palace at all cost," Azure Phoenix ordered firmly and calmly, "Open the pouch when the situation is in dire..." Armorhide nodded firmly, "Leave ti to me, my lord. Return home safely and rest." Azure Phoenix nodded firmly. He then gestured and led his most of Imperial Phoenix Army out. They're on their way back to the Xuchang Palace now. Twilight and her friends followed them as well. Twilight approached to Azure Phoenix as she wished to speak. "Lord Azure, I'm surprised that you decide to bring me and my friends home together," Twilight asked curiously, "Not that, there's anything wrong about it. I'm just curious. Is there something bothering you?" Azure Phoenix sighed, "Nothing. I just want to make up for my mess. I hope you will continue your service under me until we unify the land and rescue your friends." "Really? Twilight asked in surprise. “You aren’t doing this to mess with us, are ya?” Gallus ask Azure Phoenix sketpically. Azure Phoenix nodded firmly, "Yes, I did. We both have an agreement. And I intend to fulfill it. For now, we return home and regroup. I am counting on you to help me, my friend." Twilight was touched and surprised as she blushed, "Yes, my lord. We will do our best." Gallus scoffed, "Hopefully, he doesn't threaten us again." “Come on, I got a feeling that he won’t this time….I hope.” “Hope doesn’t win this, Head Mare. I wonder how our pals will react.” -------------------------------------------- "HE DID WHAT?!" Virtue Dragon's Forces returned to the Tiger Fury Castle. For their greatest victory, both forces were celebrating and partying wildly and happily as they have won the greatest battle in their life. They were feasting and drinking their wines wildly. Most of them were chatting and talking with each other about what they have done during the battle against the enemies. Their alliance has overcome and defeated the massive navy force of Azure Phoenix. Ben, Applejack and Sandbar regrouped with the rest of their friends in their own chamber. They then told them of what has happened when they and Blade Dragoon Units ambushed Azure Phoenix. Their friends were in deep shock and angry to hear it. "I can't believe it!" Pinkie snapped angrily, "How could he?! Virtue Dragon promised us that we'll get Twilight back to us! But instead, they went backstabbing at us?! I can't believe it! This is unbelievable! Inconceivable! Insulting!" “We’re telling the truth.” Sandbar said with an annoyed sigh. “I mean, he really is trying to mess with us.” “That is sooooooo mean! How?!” Ben sighed, "It's true. We saw everything." "It's no wonder Saber was having trouble of telling us," Applejack said in concern. She sighed, "If I was in his horseshoes, I'd be having trouble of telling my friends of what my pops was doing because I loved and cared for him so much." “Well, unlike Skysoar, at least your dad doesn’t try to backstab and kill our friends.” “Eeyup.” Sunset sighed, "What are we gonna do now? Skysoar is going to initiate the Three Kingdoms Strategy. And you know what that means?" “Not a good answer, I bet.” Sandbar said nervously. “With what’s going on? Nothing is ever good.” Smolder complains in disgust. "It means the big trouble and fight between two clans is about to begin," Starlight said in concern, "We have to make sure that Virtue Dragon and Courage Tiger are in good terms especially getting the half of Jing Province. Because if they're on bad terms..." "Then, they'll be on war against each other," Ocellus exclaimed in concern. She quivered in fear, "I heard that 'The Battle of Grave Stone Maze' is the bloodiest war between Virtue Dragon and Courage Tiger. It's a nightmare." “Even worse than the nightmares and villains we deal with put together.” Pinkie cried out in horror. “And that’s not what we will deal with as our final season goes on.” “Too random, and I’m scared to even ask, Pinkie.” Ben sighed, "Well, we'd better make sure that they won't have that war. We have to make sure that Three Kingdoms are in peace and friends with each other, not enemies. I can only hope that Skysoar doesn't screw our effort for making his plan to fruition." "That would be difficult," Ocellus said in concern, "He's too intelligent and cunning for us to outsmart. We just have to be alert and keep an eye on the situation." “Unless something happens that really bucks me off.” Rainbow remarks angrily. “Rainbow Dash!” Applejack exclaims, scolding her friend for using such language in front of the kids. “Sorry, just saying….” "Alright, let's make sure that everything will be better than history's," Ben said calmly. Pinkie nodded, "Yeah. I just hope that jerk don't try to trick us again. I hate somepony break Pinkie Promise." "Uh, Pinkie, nopony make Pinkie Promise, remember?" Applejack said bluntly. "Huh? Oh!" Pinkie said in realization, "Okie Dookie Lookie!" Smolder groaned, "Pinkie is so random." Rainbow sighed, "You have no idea..." -------------------------------------------- The Alliance of Virtue Dragon and Courage Tiger have gathered at the Tiger Fury's Castle Dinning Hall. On left side is filled with Virtue Dragon and his officers while on right side are Courage Tiger and his allies. The leaders were sitting on top of the long table at the top of dinning hall, along with their families and strategists. All of them were celebrating, feasting and cheering for their victory. Unknown to any of them, Ben and his friends were hiding on top of balcony as they were spying and eavesdropping on their allies' conversations. Courage Tiger turned and faced to his allies, "Everyone, I wish to thank you all including our friends for helping us to defeat and repel the forces of Azure Phoenix back to where he came from." He sighed, "Pity that we were unable to capture him alive. He will come back for revenge, no doubt. He will bring more army." Virtue Dragon smiled calmly, "That maybe true, Lord Courage. However, if we can defeat him at Red Cliff, then we can do it again. We just need to make preparation and training for the next battle." Surprised yet inspired by Virtue Dragon's words, Courage Tiger sighed, "Such truly hero, Lord Virtue. But you're right. We can do it again." He stood up as he held his wine cup, "A toast to our victory over our greatest enemy in history!" "To our victory!" Virtue Dragon's and Courage Tiger's Officers and Soldiers cheered and held their cups high. After giving the toast, the Alliance of Virtue Dragon and Courage Tiger drank it proudly and happily. They all cheered and chatted happily about their recent success. "Lord Virtue, thank you so much for supporting and helping us," Courage Tiger thanked happily, "If you and your forces hadn't come and propose the alliance with me, then we would have been at Azure Phoenix's mercy and subordinates." Virtue Dragon sighed, "Yes. But I cannot take that compliment. It's all thanks to Skysoar and his brilliant strategy. And you should congratulate your Chief Commander since he lead the navy force against the odd numbers." Courage Tiger laughed, "So true. So true. A toast to Riverstrike and Skysoar!" The Alliance of Virtue Dragon and Courage Tiger cheered out wildly and happily. Riverstrike bowed humbly, "Thank you, my lord. I am honored. It was everyone's teamwork and effort that we have succeeded our goal." "Indeed," Skysoar said while fanned himself calmly, "Everything has gone according to our plan." Ben groaned, "Yeah. Like killing Twilight because she's a threat to his 'master plan'. Pain to my ass." "Yeah," Applejack agreed angrily, "One day, his master plan is gonna get everyone killed. He has no one to blame but himself." “Right, and he is going to buck us over, and ruin our friendships…..I hate being against Twilight.” “Me too. She’s like a sister to me….” “Sister to all of us.” Rainbow remarked in agreement as well. "As much as I hated his methods, I don't like badmouthing about him," Ocellus said calmly and gently. Everyone glared at her. She cleared her throat, "He did save our kingdoms, you know." "She has the point," Carrie agreed, "Whether you like him or not, we wouldn't have come this far if it weren't for him." Ben sighed, "Fine. I give him that credit. But I'm keeping an eye on him. I have the feeling he's gonna make excuses and lies to everyone, so that his master plan can be achieved. He's gonna kill us soon." "Yeah. Unless he's willing to listen, we can't trust him," Applejack remarked dryly. “He better watch himself.” Rainbow remarks sternly. “As far as I’m concerned, I no longer trust that piece of horse crap.” While the Alliance continued their celebration, Virtue Dragon gave some thoughts as he turned and looked at Courage Tiger, "Lord Courage, I hope you do not mind me asking." The Lord of Water Tiger Clan turned and looked at him. He continued, "Since Azure Phoenix and his main forces are forced to retreat, I was thinking and hoping that you would allow me to return ponies back to Jing Province, helping them to settle down. I would like to use it as the base." "Excuse me?!" Apollo demanded in fury as he and his fellow officers from Water Tiger Clan were annoyed and angry to hear Virtue Dragon's request. He continued, "Jing Province is the most valuable strategic location and also once part of Wuhu River! Did you honestly-?!" "Apollo, enough," Courage Tiger ordered. Virtue Dragon sighed, "Please, understand this, my lord. I only wish to have small piece of a land for me to settle down and govern my own ponies. Nothing more, nothing less." Courage Tiger hummed calmly, "I supposed it won't hurt to have you control the land. But still, even though Azure and his forces have returned to Xuchang Palace, his officers - Armorhide, Axen and Strict Stalker are defending the Jing Province's Palace. I have no doubt that they won't go down easily ever since we won the Battle of Red Cliff." "Perhaps we can help you with that," Virtue Dragon suggested. "Better yet," Skysoar said calmly. Everyone looked at him. He smiled calmly, "Let us have another competition." "Again?" Warpath asked in annoyance, "Are you kidding me?!" Blade Dragoon hummed uneasily, "I agreed with Warpath. Last time you have competition, you gave us heart attack." "Agreed. I don't believe it is necessary," Virtue Dragon agreed in concern, "We don't want trouble again." "No. No trouble at all," Riverstrike said calmly as he was looking at Skysoar, "In fact, I would like to have challenge again. And I can only assume that the first one who conquered the Jing Province within six months, one of our lord will be made as the Lord of Jing Province." "Riverstrike!" Courage Tiger scolded firmly. "Very well, I accept the challenge," Skysoar said calmly and firmly, "Just remember, Riverstrike, don't push yourself too hard. It might end your life sooner than you think." Riverstrike scoffed, "I do not plan to die today. I won't fail." "We shall see," Skysoar said calmly. Riverstrike smirked as he held his hoof up, "May the strategist win." Skysoar shook Riverstrike's hoof, "I wish you luck." Aqua groaned, "Here we go again." Saber sighed, "Tell me about it. I just hope that they're not pulling another prank again. I hate it." Ben and his friends have overheard everything from the balcony. They all looked worry and uneasy about the latest competition that both Riverstrike and Skysoar gotten into. "Looks like this is where it begins," Ben said in concern, "Let's just hope that Skysoar is playing fair and not cheating. The last thing we want is making Courage Tiger and his kingdom a group of angry tigers." “Tigers?” Carrie ask, with an arch of the eyebrow. “I thought they were ponies.” “An expression, Carrie.” “I’m scared.” Ocellus remarked in worry. “I’m worried as to what Skysoar could do next.” Rainbow smirked, "Don't worry. We won't let it happen. Count on it..." "Indeed, darling. As long we're around, Courage Tiger and Water Tiger Clan won't get paranoid and angry," Rarity said calmly, "We make sure of it." Ben sighed, "I hope so..." -------------------------------------------- After setting up with the bet for conquering the Jing Province, the Alliance of Virtue Dragon and Courage Tiger are preparing to march for their expedition. Water Tiger Clan has gathered up 30,000 soldiers while Virtue Dragon's has recruited 150,000 soldiers. They're now on their way to Jing Province. As planned, Water Tiger Clan will march and invade the northern part while Virtue Dragon's Forces attacked southern part of Jing Province. Water Tiger Clan has arrived at Jing Province's Palace after a week of marching and travelling to the northern path. They then set up the camp. Some were training fiercely under Scarblade and Pirate Scythe. Thunderbold and Trip were scouting on the battlefield while spying on enemy territory as well. Inside the main camp, Riverstrike looked restless and uneasy as he was trotting around the camp. His place was filled with maps, books, reports and chart board for battlefield map. It was completely mess. Apollo, Sam, Tigress, Aqua, Rainbow, Sunset, Yona and Carrie have arrived and entered the camp. They all have taken their seats for discussion. Sam was the first to speak, "You summoned us, Commander?" Riverstrike sighed, "Yes, thank you for coming. We need to discuss of our situation." "My lord, Master Thunderbold and Sergeant Trip haven't return from their recon." Apollo reminded his lord. "Why are you sweating? Are you alright, Riverstrike?" Tigress asks, noting how sweating her commander is. Riverstrike sighs as he shakes his head, "I'm fine. But I'm more concern with Skysoar." "Skysoar? What is wrong with him?" Sam asks Riverstrike puzzled. Riverstrike sighed, "I don't like telling this in front of our 'friends'. But I feared of him." "Fear him? Why would you think of that?" Apollo asks Riverstrike in bewilderment. Granted, Skysoar has not been acting the honest side and is very deceptive lately, but still. "Right, any reason why you're concerned about him," Sunset ask Apollo in concern. "At least answer us, man!" Rainbow complains, making some of the others glances at her for this. "Do you recall the first competition that he and I gambit?" Riverstrike reminded everyone who nodded. "I was testing him and his capability. And to be honest, I have never met someone that is equal to my intelligent and wit." "Yona is not surprised." Yona sighs a bit. "Skysoar doesn't look like pony to mess with." "I rather mess with him. He's a big liar and a jerk." Rainbow remarked in disgust. "There is more. I fear that he would target and destroy our home." Riverstrike said seriously to everyone. Everyone screams out in shock, "What?!" "T-That's absurd! Skysoar would never do such a thing!" Sam protests in disbelief. Skysoar has been proven a great ally to those not on Azure Phoenix's side! How could he even do just a thing?! Aqua agreed as she added, "Those guys are our friends. Saber is my friend too. They wouldn't gone backstabbing at us!" "Yeah! Virtue helped us to defeat Azure Phoenix at Red Cliff! And we won!" Tigress protested, still in disbelief. Rainbow muttered, "Yeah; except that jerk tried to kill Twilight." "Yona agrees on that." Yona muttered in agreement. "Yona won't side with anyone who hurts friend." "Right, even my family wouldn't like it." Carrie muttered as well. Riverstrike continues onward, explaining, ""It's not Virtue I don't trust. It's Skysoar. He might have the agenda of what he was looking for. I fear that our alliance is merely part of his ploy." "For what," Apollo ask, fearing the worst. "To gain more power and territories." "They could rival against our kingdom, not just Azure Phoenix!" "Still, even though it was part of ploy, I still believe it's our advantages. We should use it." Sam advises thoughtfully. Riverstrike sighed, "I hope you're right. But someone needs to spy and keep an eye on Skysoar. I want to make sure that he keeps his word." "Don't worry. We've got it covered." Sunset spoke up, much to everyone else's surprise. "Huh; What; When," Sam yelps in surprise and confusion; sounds like he is being involved in this. Apollo scratches his chin thoughtfully as he spoke, "Indeed. I doubt Skysoar would allow us to visit him except his brother and Sam." Rainbow snickered, "We weren't talking about us, guys. We're talking about our buddies on their sides." "Yona don't get it," Yona spoke up, a bit puzzled by this. Carrie explains to Yona, giving her a clear idea as to what's going on, "It means Ben and our guys are keeping an eye on them. They will make sure that Virtue Dragon's Forces don't try to cheat during the competition. If they did, the guys will stop them." Riverstrike smiled, speaking, "That's a relief. Thank you so much." "Now we can hope nothing else goes wrong." "Skysoar may try something else to give us one Tartarus of a bad time." Rainbow remarks with a frown. "And hopefully he doesn't get under Ben's mane." Sunset said. She is concerned that Skysoar may upset to tick him off and make him do something drastic. ----------------- Virtue Dragon's Forces have already arrived to Jing Province's South. They have already set up the camp. Virtue Dragon, Skysoar, Blade Dragoon, Warpath, Dragonspear, Saber, Ben and his team have gathered for battle plan discussion. Once everyone calm down, Virtue spoke up, "I'm glad everyone is here. Shall we proceed with our next strategy?" "Indeed, we shall. We've already conquered the first territory - Southern Fort." Skysoar explains as he motions to the battle plan on the map. Phobos cleared his throat, joking, "You mean asking them to surrender nicely?" Skysoar looked annoyed while snapping, "Yes. Surrender to us. As I was saying..." He then noticed Ben and his friends looked boring and annoying. "Are you even paying attention to me or humiliating me? Because I can't help but feel like you're against me." "Not after the stunt you just pulled." Ben remarked with a scowl. "Eyup! You done tried to kill Twilight." Applejack remarked sternly. "Yeah, why should we give you any respect? Not cool." Sandbar added, shaking his head. "Skysoar? More like SkyBORE!" Phobos insulted, making Ben and the rest of his group laughs. "Guys, enough," Saber said quickly, not wanting Skysoar to get upset, "Quite insulting." Blade Dragoon agrees, "Don't antagonize him. He was just doing his job." "That doesn't mean I forgive him. I'm keeping an eye on you, Skysoar." Ben remarked furiously, making a signal as if saying "I'm watching you so watch it, bub." Warpath whistled, "Wow. And they say I got trust issues. What's eating them?" Dragonspear hummed, "I wish I knew..." "Nevertheless, we shall proceed to conquer the south as promised." Skysoar said, deciding not to bother with the insults and comments towards him right now. "Master Dragonspear will invade Eastern City while Master Warpath will deal with the Western City. And of course, Master Blade Dragoon shall deal with Huang Zhong Fort if you're up to it." Blade Dragoon nodded as he spoke, "I do, my lord; to redeem my failures." Starlight cleared her throat as she reminds, "I wouldn't call that a failure since Skysoar doesn't want Azure Phoenix to die, so Water Tiger Clan will get distracted to deal with him while he steal everything." "No honour among thieves..." Applejack remarks furiously. "What is wrong with you all?" Dragonspear demanded in disbelief. "Stop disrespecting our strategist!" "If you're worried about my honest, rest assured that I will do no such thing," Skysoar assured Ben's group, though they suspected that he is indeed lying. How could they even trust him again after what he tried to do to Twilight before? "How do we know you're telling you the truth?" Sandbar asks Skysoar suspiciously while frowning. "I agreed. I mean, for all we know, you will likely try again or backstab us first chance you get." Starlight said in agreement. "To buck with this; Maybe we shouldn't help at all." Ben remarks angrily. Perhaps he and his group should forget helping out Skysoar, Virtue, or anyone else who is too stupid to realize that Skysoar cannot be trusted! "You can choose. Help us to take the land for Lord Virtue or never see your friends again." Skysoar spoke as if secretly taunting them. "I can assure you one thing - your friends will never be the same since they helped him escape." "Bullcrap," Sandbar screams out angrily at Skysoar. "I agreed! That is the biggest, most disgusting lie I have ever heard!" Applejack screams out furiously at Skysoar. "They got their reason for doing so; they are still our true friends through and through!" "You take that back right now or I will punch you in the face so hard, your other self will feel it!" Phobos exclaims angrily, preparing his claws to do just do that. Smolder looks like she is doing the same thing. Virtue Dragon chose that time to interfere before a fight breaks out, "That is enough. We're working together, not against each other. Ben and my friends, I'm truly sorry for breaking promises. But right now, in order to bring my dream of Benevolence come true, we need all the help we can get especially Skysoar's. I promised you that we will get your friends back." "Assuming you won't try to backstabbing us again." Smolder remarks with a scoff. "Yeah," Pinkie remarks in agreement. Even she, a fun loving pony, is disgusted. "Do not worry. I have no intention to pulling that stunt. We just focus on the South. Nothing more, nothing less," Skysoar spoke up in assuration. "Better hope so." Ben remarks darkly. He doesn't trust Skysoar now as far as he can throw him, and with his abilities, he could throw him a mile away! "Believe me. I don't like lying." Applejack remarks in agreement. She can smell a lie coming a mile away. "Either way, move out now!" Virtue Dragon orders, dismissing the meeting before it could get ugly. "Lord!" Everyone bows in respect. Well, ALMOST everyone. Virtue Dragon Forces turned and exited the camp. Ben turned and gave the glare at Skysoar before exiting out. Virtue Dragon sighed, "I cannot believe you asked me to lie to them again. " "Correction; Withholding the truth," Skysoar spoke up, clearing it up so to speak, "Knowing them, they will stop us from doing what is necessary. We need all Jing Province as our base." Virtue Dragon sighed, "I'm well aware of that. I still don't like lying and cheating." "Have you taken Lord Sozin's offer, we would not have suffered this fate." "I don't like taking sickly old pony's kindness, and I didn't do a good job as a ruler." "That is why you have me, my lord." Skysoar assures as he patted his lord on the back. "Still, how are we gonna get the Northern Part, without Riverstrike's knowledge?" Virtue Dragon spoke, getting to another matter at hoof here. " As you have said, they won't let us get there, even if we did succeed our mission." Skysoar smiled, adding in amusement, "I've already set the plan in motion; Nothing to worry about." ----------------- Team Ben split up and helped their allies conquered the rest of the cities. Starlight and Smolder assisted Dragonspear to negotiate the mayor to surrender and work under their lords. Warpath has easily killed the brutal yet rude general at ease while Pinkie and Phobos calmed down the civilians. And now, Blade Dragoon and his team of Saber, Rogue, Bullock and Hook were heading to Huang Zhong Fort. Ben, Applejack and Sandbar went with them as well. They have arrived and stood before the fortress. Rogue looks around, speaking, "Looks like we have arrived, father." Blade Dragoon nodded as he speak, "Indeeds. Do you think they will surrender?" HONK! Blade Dragoon and his team were alerted as they turned and looked at the front. They found the soldiers coming out from the castle. They all armed themselves in battles. They were led by an old yellow Earth Pony with white long beard and mustache, short curvy mane and tail dressed in his yellowish robe with dragon green armour while his cutie mark is bow and arrow. His partner is an iron masked brownish muscular yet fierce and wild humanoid twin-horned winged dragon with a rhino's horn-like. "Looks like you have the answer, uncle." Saber said thoughtfully. Blade Dragoon nudged his Red Hare to move to the front, calling out, "I am Blade Dragoon of Virtue Dragon's Forces. I've come in peace." "Peace?! Peace," The old pony roars in fury. "Your peace is a joke, brat! If it's peace, then why bring the army here?! You're no different from Lord Azure Phoenix! You won't fool me that easily! You just come here to take our homeland! Not a chance!" Iron masked Dragon roared, "I... Fight... I... Defend... Home..." "And you are?" Blade Dragoon asks, arching an eyebrow at the old pony. "Veteran Shot. General Veteran Shot of Lord Sozin's Archery Forces!" The old pony explains as he identifies himself. Iron masked Dragon booms out, "Gutsy!" "Veteran Shot?! Gusty?! No way," Saber yelps out in surprise. He is definitely familiar with those names! "What's up?" Bullock asks, arching an eyebrow at this. "You heard of them?" Hook asks Saber curiously. Saber explains in amazement, "I heard about those two generals. Veteran Shot is the master of shooting arrows, and it is said that he'd never missed. Gutsy the Iron Masked Dragon is the most brutal and strong warrior among his forces." "So we're dealing with a powerful pony and a big Dragon then," Applejack said in amusement. "Not the kind of combination I would deal with, dude." Sandbar said with a chuckle. "Why would a warlord sent the old pony to face me? This is wrong." Blade Dragoon said doubtfully. This old pony doesn't seem like the kind of one that seems to be seriously. Applejack on the other hoof thinks differently, explaining, "Blade Dragoon, I wouldn't call him that. Trust me, he's not very old as you think of him. He's stronger than he looks." Ben groaned, "Yeah. Last time I call him that and gotten into a big fight with him was when Rainbow took me for Wild Blue Yonder, with Granny Smith and her gang." "Yeesh. I don't think I wanna face him or Gutsy." Sandbar remarks with a groan of his own. "I remember Smolder admire that Iron Dragon for being strongest and fiercest dragon in Dragon Land." "Either way, we must end this now. General Veteran Shot. General Gutsy. Surrender now, and your lives will be spared. I will not fight with you." Blade Dragoon demands sternly. He will not fight unless he got no choice in the matter. "Why; because you think I'm old pony and he speaks like dumb?! Is that why you want to negotiate with us?! You insult us!" Veteran Shot snarled, feeling insulted by other ponies considering him old and the way Gutsy spoke. "No! I mean yes! But still-!" Rogue unfortunately chose that time to interrupt, "Hey! That isn't true, old timer!" "Are you serious, Rogue?! I thought I told you not to call him that!" Ben yelled out to Rogue in horror. "Too late; He's red as the wild bull!" Applejack gasped. She's right, as what Rogue just said made him so red, it's hard to reason with him at that state. Burnt in red, Veteran Shot screams out in fury, "I'll show you who's old pony, you whipper snapper!" Gutsy roared, "Attack!" "Great! Why does Veteran Shot has to misunderstand these kind of situations?!" Ben yelps in alarm by this. "They're on their own here." Applejack said, knowing that Blade Dragoon and Rogue will need to handle this matter on their lonesome. "Let's hope they can handle it." "I am rather worried that they will handle THEM." Sandbar remarks in concern. Veteran Shot and Gutsy charged and attacked both Blade Dragoon and Rogue. Both father and son did their best not to harm the veteran general and dragon warrior, but the latter have proven to be strong and fast. Nevertheless, they managed to repel the attacks and strike back. Blade Dragoon tried his best not to harm Veteran Shot, but it shocked and surprised that the old pony has strength to fight back or speed to dodge and block the attacks. He continued swinging his Blue Crescent Dragon Blade at the old pony, who continued fighting back. After few rounds of swinging his sword, Veteran Shot panted heavily and exhausting from the fight. Blade Dragoon noticed it. Blade Dragoon spoke up, "Perhaps, you should rest." "Why?! Think of I'm an old pony?!" Veteran Shot demands furiously and suspiciously. "No. I do not attack the warrior with limited strength. In fact, I wish to go on full force." "Really; you were testing me." Blade Dragoon gins as he explains, "I was. You're truly a warrior to be feared of, Veteran Shot. Are you ready for next round?" Veteran Shot laughed, "You know it! Prepare yourself!" Riding their Dragon Ride, Blade Dragoon and Veteran Shot charged and engaged their fierce duel again. And this time, both of them fought fiercely and determinedly against each other for few rounds. Rogue swung his Giant Broadsword at Gutsy, who endured and withstand the attacks, before grabbing and throwing him at the ground. The Iron Dragon roared angrily as he tried to slam and stomp on the young warrior, who rolled and dodged the attack as quickly as he can. Gutsy grabbed and held Rogue for finishing him up. Rogue used headbutt on the dragon's head before kicked him down. Rogue swung again at the Iron Dragon, who barely blocks the attack. Both of them continued fighting and battling with each other fiercely and wildly for few times. After minor clash, both of them moved back at once. Rogue noticed Gutsy's hand was bleeding. "How about a break, Iron Dragon; Looks like you need some healing." Rogue suggests in concern. Gutsy roared angrily. "Hey! Ease off with your roar, buddy. I'm trying to be fair. In fact, like my father, I do not strike opponent with limited strength. And trust me, I don't want to go easy on you." Gutsy growled a bit, "You... Mean... It..." "Yeah. Still want to rest." Gutsy smirked while admitting, "Never... I... Fight..." Gutsy roared wildly as he charged and slammed his claws at Rogue to the ground. He tried to slam and struck his claws at Rogue, who dodge and evade the attacks while punching and kicking him off. Both continued their fierce fight. Saber whistles at this, "Incredible. Even at old age, Veteran Shot continued to fight. He even can bested Uncle Blade Dragoon." Bullock nodded as he added, "Yeah. No kidding. I'm still having hard time to believe it." "And not to mention, that Gutsy is real tough dragon to deal with. We could always use another one." Hook said with an amazed look. Gutsy should be on their side. "As long as a certain pony doesn't do anything drastic." Ben mumbles to his friends quietly. "Eyeup, but let's watch on." Applejack insists as they continue watching this fight. Blade Dragoon and Veteran Shot rode their Dragon Ride at distance. They nudged their rides to charge straight at each other. As they swung their blades at each other, his Dragon Ride yelped in shock and surprise, making Veteran Shot fell off from his mount. Veteran Shot yelped, "Ah; My back!" Gutsy gasped, "General!" Gutsy abandoned the duel with Rogue. He came to Veteran Shot while blocked Blade Dragoon from coming close to him. Instead of attacking, the bearded warrior turned his back from them both. Blade Dragoon spoke sternly, "Get a better ride, Master Shot. I want rematch fairly." He rather not takes the advantage of hitting an enemy while he or she is down. Not even if that someone is an old pony. "W-Why..." Gutsy ask in surprise yet concern. Blade Dragoon chose not to end the duel with them both? "He's right. You should have finished me off." Veteran Shot said in agreement. Blade Dragoon got the chance to finish the duel. "There is no honour to finish such honourable fighter like you." Blade Dragoon explains gently to the two. After all, the duel is not fair if the opponent was at an disadvantage here, and he prefers to win his fighters fairly. "Wow, that's true." Sandbar said with a nod. "No way you would win a duel like that." "I supposed in light of the problem with Skysoar, not every pony is a jerkass." Ben admits with a nod. Veteran Shot pauses as he looks down for a moment. The old pony thinks before looking up, saying, "Such honor and chivalrous; Very well. We will continue this tomorrow." "Honor..." Gutsy growled with a thoughtful look of his own. Gutsy helped and carried Veteran Shot on his back. They both returned to the castle. Blade Dragoon and his units returned to the camp. "My lord; that was amazing battle; I wish you could have end the battle early." Bullock said to Blade Dragoon in amazement. Hook added, "Indeed. Lord Dragonspear and Lord Warpath have conquered the city." "I'm well aware of it. But I do believe they can be recruited. We need to earn their trust." Blade Dragoon explains to his men. As long as he doesn't end them, Veteran Shot and Gutsy are indeed good allies to be with. "Do you think it will work?" Rogue asks his father hopefully. "One way to find out; we shall use 'Magic of Friendship' on them!" "Hate to burst your bubbles. That is not how it works." Ben points out, rolling his eyes at this claim. "He's done right." Applejack spoke in agreement. The Magic of Friendship works with true friends and helps overcome your problems, but not all the time. "Right, some stubborn jerk ass ponies would rather not have friends, and solve his problems the wrong way." "Stubborn ponies." "The Magic of Friendship also comes from within." Ben explains to Blade Dragoon calmly. "And it also doesn't force ponies to your sides. You got to give them time." --------- During dinner time, both Veteran Shot and Gutsy were eating their foods for tomorrow battle. While the Iron Dragon enjoyed eating meats, Veteran Shot was having some thinking about his duel with Blade Dragoon. Gutsy spoke up, "Veteran Shot?" " Don't mind me, Gutsy. I was just thinking. Do you think we should surrender to them?" Veteran Shot ask Gutsy seriously. "Why? They... Enemies..." "Yes, I'm well aware of that. Unlike any enemies or bandits we have fought, Blade Dragoon has no intention of treating me as an old pony but respected warrior. Not to mention, they could have taken my head at ease." "True... Young... Worried... Me... I... was... Injured..." Gutsy explains calmly, fearing for his injuries and such. Veteran Shot scoffed a bit, "Perhaps... It will be worth to meet their master. I heard that their lord is benevolent and virtuous. I wonder what he looks like." "I... Want... Meet... Him..." "One last duel with them?" Gutsy smirked while exclaiming, "Yeah!" "To our glory," Veteran Shot roars out as he and his Dragon did a toast. "Glory!" Veteran Shot and Gutsy gave each other a toast for their glory. They can't wait for their rematch. ------------------------------------------- On the next day, Veteran Shot and Gutsy were armed and readied for next battle. Blade Dragoon and Rogue were there as well. Both sides charged and engaged the duel at once. Blade Dragoon and Veteran Shot were battling with each other fiercely. Rogue and Gutsy also fought as well. Both sides of their army gave the loud battle cry and cheer to their generals. Ben waits patiently as he spoke, "Think Blade and Rogue can win?" "I'm sure they do." Saber said to Ben in assuration. "Oooh; Pinkie Sense going off," Pinkie said as her usual Pinkie Sense goes off. "I gotta good feeling here." "When Pinkie said that, something big is going to happen." Applejack explains thoughtfully. Blade Dragoon gave a powerful swing of his blade, knocking Veteran Shot. The old pony turned and ran off at once. As the warrior gave chase, Veteran Shot jumped up before turned his bow and arrow at him. The old pony fired his arrow, alerting Blade Dragoon to back off. To his shock and surprise, Blade Dragoon was unharmed and found no sign of arrows. Though suspicious and curious, he continued chasing after Veteran Shot, who oddly continued firing 'arrows' at him but nothing. Reaching to dead end, Veteran Shot fired his arrow which only hit at Blade Dragoon's helmet, which shocked and surprised him. Blade Dragoon yelps in fright, "That shot... It could have been my head. Why didn't you do it?" Veteran Shot sighed as he put his bow down, "Just returning the favour; your move, youngster. What will you do?" "Just as I thought. You're indeed honourable warrior. My brother will be honoured to have you." Veteran Shot smiled while admitting, "As do I." Gutsy roared wildly as he tried to slam some punches on Rogue, who blocked and deflected the attacks as fast as he can for few rounds. As soon as Gutsy struck his claws at him to the walls, Rogue quickly kicked him by guts, followed by head butt. Rogue swung and struck his Giant Broadsword at the Iron Dragon, who endured and blocked the attacks for few times. Both sides continued fighting fiercely and wildly until Rogue and Gutsy charged and struck each other. After passing each other, Rogue got a small cut on his chest while Gutsy got his horn cut off. "Good... Good..." Gutsy grumbles as he turned to Rogue, giving a bow of respect. "Well done..." "Thanks. Gotta admit. You're real tough dragon. Want to join us?" Rogue asks hopefully. This got to convince him and Veteran Shot to join their side now. Gutsy smirked as he answers, "I... Am..." Blade Dragoon and Rogue turned to his forces while Veteran Shot and Gutsy turned to theirs. They lifted their hooves and claws up high, gesturing that they're in peace. Their forces gave a loud cheer for it. "Well, looks like we got ourselves some new recruits." Applejack spoke in observation. "I just hope nothing else goes wrong." Ben mumbles, fearing that something bad is about to go down very soon. ------------------- Back in the present.... "Well, they are supposed to be here." Sunburst said as he, Flash, and the rest of the Stallion Six came in, glancing around. He moves his glasses up a bit. "But the girls, Ben, Nyx and the Dragons are nowhere in sight." "Something must've happened." Caramel said in concern while looking around. "It's not like them to disappear." "And leave us to foal sitting duties." Soarin' remarks as he glances at five familiar fillies and a colt coming in after them. "Try to be careful. Azure Phoenix won't be pleased if we break anything in here." "We will." Apple Bloom said as her group advances into the library. "So this is the library Jade spoke of." "Yeah....and that must be the Book of Ages." Twist said as she and her friends spots the book, coming on over. "Neat." "Now be careful. You know the trouble Jade got into with that." Dexter warns as the book comes over. "But you think this is why our girls came in here." "Who knows?" Flash remark with a shrug as he opens the book. "But it got some neat...." Suddenly the Book of Ages flashes like mad, much to their notice. Scootaloo yelps, "Whoa! What's...." "Uh oh. Looks like we're about to experience something," Brian chuckles as the whole room appears in a flash.... -------------- Back in the past... After their victory at Huang Zhong Fort, Blade Dragoon and his allies returned to the camp, bringing along both Veteran Shot and Gutsy. They all bowed humbly to Virtue Dragon and Skysoar. Virtue Dragon spoke out warmly, "Welcome home, brother and son. I'd take that everything is alright." Blade Dragoon smiles as he bows to his lord, explaining, "Indeed. I have brought new warriors; the master of archery - Veteran Shot, and also Iron Dragon - Gutsy." "Trust me. These guys are the best warriors I ever seen." Saber said in agreement. Veteran Shot and Gutsy bowed humbly as they spoke, "My lord..." Suddenly as if without warning, Skysoar roars out in anger, "Arrest and execute Gutsy!" "What," Veteran Shot gasps in shock and alarm. "Why," Gutsy protests as the Dragon Guards came and grabbed Gutsy. They were about to drag him out but halted by Veteran Shot. "Let my friend go! He hasn't done anything wrong!" "What the hay, Skysoar?, Applejack protests furiously towards Skysoar. "He and Veteran Shot agrees to join us and now you decided to execute Gutsy without warning?!" "Yeah, what's your deal, pal?!" Pinkie demands angrily. "He is no meanie!" "He is. He is the bandit leader, who is responsible of Lord Sozin's death and even tried to sell his son to us when he supposed to help them! I know you too well, Gutsy the Iron Dragon." Skysoar explains sternly towards Guttsy who looks worried and speechless. "I... I..." Gutsy begins to speak, wanting to protest about this. Veteran Shot ignores him as he screams at Skysoar angrily, "Absurd! I've known my friend well. He did not murder our lord! But he doesn't wish to serve that son of his because he doesn't have the stomach to do it. He told me what happen, and we both wanted to join you. But we were too late because you escaped." "And there is more. He may look like a fierce dragon, but deep within him, he's brave and loyal warrior, who concerns of his allies." Blade Dragoon said, defending Gutsy on his behalf. "I am not convinced. He's too dangerous to live and work under us." Skysoar spoke sternly. Smolder however spoke out, smoke coming out of her nostrils, "I am! I am a dragon! You wanna kill him! You gotta kill me first! I won't let you kill him!" "Yeah! You mess with the wrong dragon!" Phobos exclaims in agreement. "The ball is in your ball court, Skysoar." Pinkie remarks in amusement. "Either leave Gutsy alone or go through more Dragons." "Either way, we win." Sandbar remarks with a nod. Skysoar frowns as he snaps, "I still think-!" Virtue Dragon holds up a hoof, interrupting Skysoar before he finish, "Enough. If you believed he can be trusted, so do I. We need all the help we can get to overcome the odds. You know that." Skysoar hummed, "Very well. Release him." Dragon Guards let Gutsy go. "I'm warning you. If you ever have second thoughts of betraying our lord or me, I would not be mercy." Gutsy whimpered in fear before nodded, "Understood." Ben however steps in, looking pissed once more. He snaps in defiance, "No! I won't be mercy if you keep that up, Skysoar." "Excuse me." Skysoar spokes, giving a glare at Ben as he is expecting this. "I don't like how you treated and accuse the officers like they're criminals. And trust me; you don't want to see my ugly side." "Your threat means nothing, illegitimate son of Princess of the Sun." Skysoar spoke all of the sudden. Ben was in shock as the jerk continues, "Yes, I know who you are. And I will not let you ruin my master plan. It will come true." "I'm telling you. Your master plan is gonna cost lives. And trust me, it won't be good." Ben protests furiously at Skysoar. He isn't going to let this creep get the best of him! "Please. Nothing bad could happen." "You have no idea how wrong you are." "That's enough! This kind of attitude has to stop." Virtue Dragon spoke, putting an end to this as well. While he didn't like Skysoar's attiude, he doesn't appreciate Bem's either. "Ben, I appreciate you defending Gutsy and vouch for his loyalty, but stop insulting Skysoar." "I will if he stops acting like a jerk." Ben remarks dryly. He was this close in punching Skysoar in the nose and he doesn't give a damn whose is seeing him doing it. "I'm sure he didn't mean it. But for now, we should focus on the current situation. I received the report that Riverstrike is attacking the Jing Province's Palace. What should we do?" "We do nothing." Skysoar spoke, much to the surprise and annoyance of some of the others. "That's it? We do nothing?" Smolder scoffs as she crosses her armes. "Not much of a plan to me." "Eyeup," Applejack remarks with a frown. "Something about smells liked rotten apples." "So you want us to not do a damn thing?" Ben asks Skysoar with a deep frown. First the lies, then the death threat towards Skysoar, and insulting him? What kind of pony like him does that to his allies?! Skysoar nodded as he spoke, "Yes. Nothing; we wait and see how it goes." "Fine. But if this is one of your tricks again-!" "You have no authority here, Ben. And therefore, you have no power." "Jackass-" Ben remarks furiously as he prepares to punch Skysoar in the nose hard. This has been a long time coming. Saber quickly steps in Ben's way before he even gets close to Skysoar, protesting, "Ben, stop it. Stop making things worse. For now, we wait and see how it goes. I'm sure Skysoar has no intention of harming our alliance. For now..." "He'd better..." "Because I am getting fed up with him," Smolder remarks darkly to Skysoar. She wanted to save her friends and the kingdoms, but this? This is going too far. "I think we made a mistake in helping these jerks in the first place." Phobos remarks dryly. "Yeah; I don't like lying and breaking promises..." Pinkie remarks in agreement. "Time to go; but let me tell you something what I told Blazefist and don't interrupt until I finish." Ben spoke to Skysoar sternly. The latter kept silent as he continues, "Say what you may about what I am....but I am lucky. I got a wonderful nice mother who I care about and love so much. She took care of me for years....and I got separated from her due to an event that I dare not speak about. I may not live in royalty like Azure Phoenix or a dangerous warrior....but I am a nice, brave hero who looks out for others. I loved my mother and was scared when I almost lost her few times before." "Right, he said the whole thing." Saber said with a nod. "I would be scared if something else happened to her. I came close to losing her so I am still her son, so that whole stuff you said Skysoar doesn't matter. "Well...." Virtue Dragon said as he nodded in understanding. "You are lucky to still have someone who you care for." "Thanks, Virtue." Ben said with a smile then gave a stern look towards Skysoar. "Now then, we will continue to help, but make no mistake about it....if we find out you have no intention still of getting Twilight and our friends back.....and are going to backstab us the whole time....and you get the idea.....then, I'm taking my group and leaving, and you guys can handle the Imperial Phoenix Empire without us. We will get our friends back with or without your help. Do you understand me?" Skysoar was silent. "I said do you understand me?" "Yes, I understand." Skysoar spoke clearly. "Good." As soon as everyone left the tent, Saber quickly hid behind the tent for eavesdropping again. Virtue Dragon and Skysoar continued their discussion. Virtue Dragon sighs as he shakes his head, "Was it necessary, Skysoar? Fighting with my friend? He was just doing what is right for Gutsy. And I have to admit it. He doesn't look a threat. He reminds me of Warpath. Plus, insulting Ben like that?" Skysoar explains, "My lord, I am certain that he will betray us. Gutsy is after the power. Nothing more; nothing less; Ben and his friends have no intention of helping us at all." "Skysoar, I don't believe-!" "My lord... If you want your dream come true, then we must take drastic measurement, even it means using deception and inflict damages to our alliance and your so-called 'friends'." "By telling more lies again?! Like how you didn't tell them that you already have help from the Northern Jing Province?!" Virtue Dragon remarks, disgusted by the lies he is telling so far. "Yes. Until we defeat Azure Phoenix, then the Land of Benevolence can finally come true." Skysoar said in confidence. "I don't like it at all..." "I know. It's the only way to restore peace." Virtue Dragon muttered, "Maybe Ben's right... It could cost lives and even mine..." Saber hissed from the tent, "'Damn it." Outside the tent, Smolder groans out angrily, "I'm telling ya. I don't know what Saber saw in that creep." "Right, he doesn't want us to get Twilight and the others back." Phobos whines out angrily. "I know, but until he makes a bad move, we...." Ben stops as a flash appears. "What's this?" "This is what happened when the students show." Everyone yelps as the flash moves. When all is clear, the rest of Ben's group rushes out and, along with Ben's group, saw a familiar group of ponies on the ground. "Yeehaw," Apple Bloom laughs as she got back up. "That was fun!" "Apple Bloom," Applejack yelps as she saw her sister, along with Twist getting up. "What you doing here? I thought Caramel and the rest of the Stallion Six were supposed to be watching you!" "We did." Caramel groans as he got up. "And we ended up here." "Sunburst; is that you?" Starlight asks as she spots Sunburst a mess on the ground. It's rather cute to see him like this." "Yes, and I've fallen and I can't get up." Sunburst groans. Starlight laughs as she helps her love up. "Thanks." "Yahoo," Brian laughs as he got up. "Let's do that again! Hey, where the rest of our group including the rest of the CMC went off to???" "What's going on out here?" Virtue Dragon demands as he and Skysoar came out to investigate the new, seeing the newcomers. "What's this; more friends of Ben's?" "Uh...." Twist yelps as she spots the past ponies glaring at them. "Why do I have the feeling we aren't supposed to be here?" "This day has gotten better." Skysoar spoke in amusement to himself. ---------------- Riverstrike and his main army of Water Tiger Clan including Tigress, Aqua, Apollo, Sam, Scarblade, Pirate Scythe, Thunderbold, and also Rainbow and her team marched out and attacked Jing Province. While watching the battlefield from the hill, Riverstrike recalled of his carefully crafted plan - invading and conquering Jing Province, and also forcing the Leader of Shu Province to surrender. Once the South is completely under their control, they can proceed and engaged with Azure Phoenix and his imperial army. Hopefully, if they're victorious, then the Land of Ma will be Water Tiger Clan's. "While Virtue Dragon and his forces focused on the South, Riverstrike and his main forces of Water Tiger Clan invaded Northern Jing Province. They knew that it was only matter of time before Azure Phoenix turned his attention south once more. They knew that they not count on the miracle at Red Cliff to repeat itself again. It was best that take offensive. Riverstrike's plan was to seize control of Jing Province. With momentum on his side, he would force the leader of Shu Province to surrender, thus dividing the land between Imperial Phoenix Army and Water Tiger Clan. This would lead to showdown with Azure Phoenix, and ultimately bringing new age of Water Tiger Kingdom rule. This was his plan to split the land in two." During the battlefield, Armorhide and his Defenders have put up strong resistance and defense against the enemies for almost six months. This has proven difficult and challenging for the Water Tiger Clan to handle. And at the same time, complete unaware, they were spied and watched by couple of shadowy figure from the sky. "However, protecting the Jing Province was none other than Azure Phoenix's cousin - Armorhide. This formidable opponent was said to be nearly invulnerable in defensive battle." Further, yet another pony threatened to cast a dark cloud over Riverstrike and his carefully crafted plans..." -------------------------------------------- After six months have passed, Riverstrike and his allies were gathered at the main camp as they have no luck of laying siege on the castle or even overcoming and defeating Armorhide and his Defenders. Invading the Jing Province's Palace wasn't easy as they thought they did. Unfortunately for them as well, Pirate Scythe was not with them at all. They were now inside the camp as they were discussing and devising the plans of attacking and defeating the defense units. "Curse that Azure Phoenix!" Thunderbold exclaimed in frustration, "How could his defense still be so strong after we dealt him such a crushing defeat?" As everyone chatted and nodded in concern, Apollo hummed in concern, "Armorhide is truly formidable warrior with defense capability. We should not underestimate them." "I agreed, Apollo," Riverstrike said in concern yet firm, "I had thought we could keep up this momentum to take the province. But it seems that won't be so easy after all. But that's not our only concerns. We not only be weary of Azure Phoenix, you know what I mean, Thunderbold?" “Uh, what actually do you mean?” Yona ask a bit puzzled. “Can you give us more info?” Sunset ask curious about this. "Somepony other than Azure Phoenix?" Thunderbold asked curiously. He gasped, "You mean Virtue Dragon?! He wants to claim Jing Province?" "Well done, Thunderbold. You have truly come a long way," Sam said calmly yet amusingly. He turned and looked at Riverstrike, "But Master Riverstrike, despite Virtue Dragon has succeeded conquering the South, I still believed that the alliance with them would be in our best interest. And of course, we should keep him and Skysoar alive." "I know..." Riverstrike said in concern and uncertain, "I hope you're right." "Either way, where the heck is that knucklehead?!" Trip asked in annoyance. "Pirate Scythe is fighting at the fortress alone. And also, an odd report claimed that he's got civilians with him," Thunderbold explained firmly and calmly, "Our first order of business is sending him reinforcements." "Yes. We will break the enemy line to relieve Pirate Scythe. Let's leave the defense to Trip, Yona and Sunset," Riverstrike said firmly and calmly. "Are you kidding me?! Why do I have to babysit the clumsy yak and the unicorn?!" Trip asked in annoyance. Yona screamed in anger, "Yona not clumsy! Yona fierce! Yona show Tricky that Yona's strong!" "It's Trip!" Trip snapped in annoyance. "Cool it off, Trip! Besides, Yona's strength is our greatest weapon to defend the camp. So, protecting the camp is our top priority," Sam said firmly and calmly. "Indeed. Let us rescue our friends now," Riverstrike said firmly and calmly. -------------------------------------------- While Trip, Yona and Sunset remained behind to defend the main camp, Riverstrike and his main forces headed off to find and rescue Pirate Scythe, who is alone defending the small fortress. Upon their arrival to it, they have found the small fortress was surrounded and assaulted by Axen and his army. The Imperial Phoenix Army was trying to breakthrough and conquer the fortress. Riverstrike raised his pole, signalling the army to gave battle cry before charging and attacking Axen and his units. Noticing the enemy coming towards them, Axe held his axe up, "Everyone, do not fear! Fight them! Fight them hard! Do not give up!" As ordered, the Imperial Phoenix Soldiers turned and faced off the army of Riverstrike and his forces. Axen was leading the attack while protecting his allies from danger. As battle raging on, Water Tiger Clan is gaining the upper hand from defeating and killing most of Imperial Phoenix soldiers. Thunderbold swung his Thunder Pike in knocking and killing the enemies off. Scarblade was swift and deadly enough to kill his enemies off. Apollo and Sam stayed close to Riverstrike as they fought and faced off the soldiers. Tigress, Aqua, Rainbow and Carrie worked together to fend off against Axen, who is strong and fierce to hold off the attack while retaliating back at them. Rainbow screamed as she swung and struck her nunchucks at him, who blocked the attacks, though he got hit for few times. As he was distracted, Aqua and Tigress charged and swung their weapons in knocking and pushing him back. Carrie quickly came and tripped him over to the ground. The sisters jumped and slammed their weapons on him. He quickly blocked and kicked them off at once. He tried to slam and strike his axe on them but he got pushed and knocked off by Rainbow's Sonic Rainboom. Carrie tried to trip him again, but instead, he recovered before slammed on her to the ground. Axen quickly grabbed and held Carrie hostage as he has his axe on her throat, shocking and scaring the sisters and Rainbow to back off. He spoke, "Stand down now. She will not be harm." “Why?! What makes you think we will listen to you?!” Rainbow demands furiously to Axen. “Right, I mean what the hell?!” Tigress snaps in agreement. "I wish I do not wish to harm her," Axen said firmly and calmly, "But I want the fortress and leave here now. That's a simple request. Can you do that?" "No! You won't!" The confident and cocky voice exclaimed. Axen looked behind as he found Pirate Scythe charged and rammed the Imperial Phoenix General to the ground, freeing Carrie. Rainbow and two sisters approached and checked on her if she's alright or not. Pirate Scythe was busy attacking and punching Axen fiercely and relentlessly. “Human Carrie, are you all right?” Tigress asksCarrie seriously. “Yeah, you need bandages or something, kid?” Rainbow ask the student in concern. Carrie sighed, "I'm fine. I'm fine." After beating up the Imperial Phoenix General, Pirate Scythe held and captured Axen as he moved the prisoner with the rest of his army, who were too defeated and captured alive by Riverstrike and his forces. They met up with him. Pirate Scythe whistled happily, "Looks like we've got the fortress! Awesome, right?" "Indeed..." Riverstrike said calmly. He turned and glared at his general, "What you did now is reckless and irresponsible especially having the civilians with you! You could have got yourself and them killed!" "Sorry..." Pirate Scythe apologized, "Won't do that again. I promised." Thunderbold groaned, "Honestly, Scythe! One of these days, your reckless action would be getting us killed!" "By the way, how did the civilians got into the battlefield?" Sam asked in concern. Pirate Scythe cleared his throat, "Here's the funny part. These guys aren't around here. They said that they're from 'Ponyville' or whatever that is." The Water Tiger Soldiers emerged out as they were guiding and escorting Flash, Eric, Soarin, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo out from the fortress. Their appearance shocked and surprised Rainbow and Carrie. "What the?! Scootaloo?! Sweetie Belle?! Guys?!" Rainbow asked in surprise. "How the heck did you get here?!" Carrie asked in concern. She gasped, "Oh no! Don't tell me! The Book of Ages again?!" Scootaloo nodded uneasily, "Yeah. To be honest, I have no idea why that Book reacted weirdly and lately." “Hoo boy. I hope this is the last time anyone else from the present get send here.” “Tell me about it.” Rainbow remarked, rolling her eyes. “We already got us, Sunset, Starlight, and the students. Now our colt friends and the Cutie Mark Crusaders are here too.” "Seriously, what was that about?" Flash demanded. He turned and looked at his surroundings, "Why the heck are Water Tiger Clan doing with Axen? I thought they're friends." "Friends? Why the heck we befriend these losers?!" Pirate Scythe demanded in annoyance. "Who are you?" Scarblade asked dryly and suspiciously. Scootaloo was confused as seh spoke, "What? Did you hit your heads or something we're-?!" Rainbow interrupted while held Scootaloo's mouth, "They're our buddies! Sorry! I forgot to mention about this guys from the West including Ponyville! Didn't want to offend you guys much!" Carrie approached and whispered to her friends, "We're at the past, not present. These guys are not Mystic Ponies. They're not friends." "Seriously?" Sweetie Belle asked in confusion. Becoming suspicious, Riverstrike asked dryly, "Alright. Can somepony tell us what the heck is-?!" STRUCK! Riverstrike's left chest got hit by a stray arrow, shocking and scaring the Water Tiger Clan. They even heard some loud battle cry. They turned their attention from the back, where they found the volley of arrows appeared out of nowhere and shoot straight at them. Lord Eric was alerted as he summoned the magical barrier for covering and protecting his friends from the attack. Most of the soldiers got shot and killed by the volley of arrows. Some of them have survived and used the shields for defense against the attacks. While the Water Tiger Clan was busy to hold off the attacks, Armorhide and his Defenders have arrived at the scene as they quickly moved in and rescued Axen and his soldiers. They then charged and rammed most of the enemy soldiers, as well as fiercely and determinedly protecting and covering each other's back. They're now escaping the fortress. "Thank you, Armorhide," Axen said in relief. Armorhide sighed, "Do not worry, old friend. As officers, we must protect each other, no matter the cost. We're heading back now." Armorhide, Axen and his Defenders trotted off at once. They're all heading back to Jing Province's Palace at once. Water Tiger Clan has suffered heavy casualties and losses by the surprise attacks especially Riverstrike was injured by an arrow shot. The medic team were treating the wounds now. "Is everyone alright?!" Apollo asked in concern. Most of Water Tiger Soldiers chatted and moaned painfully while nodded a bit. He turned and looked at Riverstrike, "Grand Commander, are you alright?" Thunderbold groaned in anger, "Damn it. Curse those Imperial Phoenix!" “Hoo boy. I take it Azure Phoenix isn’t so nice here.” Sweetie whispered to her friends upon hearing that.” “I know. It will take more than friendship to talk him out of this.” Carrie whispered right back. "Thundebold! Remain calm." Riverstrike ordered firmly and calmly. Thunderbold turned and looked at him. He took out the arrow from his left chest. He panted calmly, "A good commander can turn the situation to his advantage including this one." While Thunderbold was worried and uneasy, Sam remained firm and calm as he nodded, "Understood. We must make haste. We shall make preparation." -------------------------------------------- Armorhide and his Defenders have managed to return to Jing Province's Palace, as well as escorting and taking Axen and his units back to base. Armorhide and Strict Stalker was on guard duty, along with the rest of Imperial Phoenix Dragon Guards and Defenders. Axen and his units are being treated from their wounds. After his wounds are treated, Axen returned and arrived at the castle walls. "How are your wounds," Strict Stalker asked calmly. "I am fine. Thank you for your concerns," Axen said humbly. He turned and looked at Armorhide, "Forgive for the trouble I have caused for you, Grand Commander." "Think of nothing. I'm relieved that you are alive. As long our soldiers are alive and safely return to the castle, that is all the matter," Armorhide said calmly. He sighed as he looked at the enemy main camp, "However... I wonder what they're doing in there. They haven't make the move..." Strict Stalker nodded, "Indeed. That is why we have sent scouts to spy and check on what they're doing..." "Maybe we should check on the pouch." Axen suggested, "I fear they might up to something." Armorhide hummed calmly as he looked at the pouch, "Maybe you're right. We're dealing with the enemies now. If we want to be victorious, then it's time to open it." He opened the pouch as he found a letter in it. He then read it, along with two generals. They gasped in concern. He hissed, "H-He can't be serious. Why?!" "I don't know. But order is order. We must follow it to the letter, regardless of his reason," Strict Stalker said humbly. Axen sighed, "I hope it's the right one..." The Imperial Phoenix Scout has arrived and reported, "My lord! I bring great news! The enemy commander is gravely injured!" Armorhide, Strict Stalker and Axen looked at each other. Armorhide sighed, "This is an opportunity we cannot waste. If what the letter said is true, we must be prepared. Prepare to march and attack the main camp! We must take Riverstrike's head!" -------------------------------------------- After gathering and rallying the troops of 10,000, Armorhide and his army marched out at once. They're heading straight to Water Tiger Clan's main camp. Upon their arrival to the main camp, the Imperial Phoenix Army was deeply in shock and surprise of what they have found. They found Riverstrike's main camp is lighted up while some of the soldiers were upset and sad to perform their guard duty. Suspecting the ambush, Strict Stalker and his Dragon Guard Units moved out and watching their surroundings cautiously and vigilantly, keeping their eyes out for ambush. They have managed to knock out some of troops. They're almost to the main camp. And just before they could open it, they heard some loud thundering noise and screams, alerting themselves and the enemy troops. They looked up and found Dexter, Dinky and Pipsqueak were falling and landed on the group hard. All of them groaned in pain. “Owie.” Dinky Doo groans as she got up, feeling her flank. “And I thought crashing with mommy was bad enough.” “You okay, kids?” Dexter asks the two foals who nodded. He notices the warriors at their weapons at them. “And are we going to be okay?” Strict Stalker asked, "What in the world?! How many more Mystic Ponies keep falling from the sky?!" "Everyone, don't attack them! Don't attack them!" Rainbow called out in concern as she emerged out from the camp. She was heading towards Dexter and two foals. She called out, "Call off! Call off!" "Rainbow Dash, no!" Tigress exclaimed in concern, chasing after Rainbow. "What?! An ambush! It was a trap! Riverstrike has faked his injured! Everyone, fall back now!" Strict Stalker exclaimed in concern. He turned and looked at Dexter and foals, "You three, come with me if you want to live!" Dexter looked confuse and worried, "I-!" "Now, soldier!" Strict Stalker exclaimed firmly. Alerted and scared off, Dexter and two foals followed Strict Stalker and his units to escape. Riverstrike and his main units emerged out as they tried to attack and kill the enemies, but halted and knocked out by Rainbow as she refused to let Dexter and two foals get killed. Unfortunately, Imperial Phoenix Units have escaped, with them. Strict Stalker managed to regroup with Armorhide and his units, alerting them to turn and retreat at once. "Damn you! You let them escape!" Riverstrike exclaimed in anger, "We almost had them!" Rainbow groaned, "Sorry. But he got our friends." Riverstrike groaned, "That could complicate things now!" "It doesn't matter, we can still catch up to them!" Sam exclaimed firmly, "This is our chance to take them down!" "He's right!" Thunderbold agreed. Riverstrike sighed, "Alright. All units charge! Take over the Jing Province's Palace!" As ordered, Riverstrike and his main units gave chase after Armorhide and his Defenders at once. They still have the chance to win it. Throughout the whole morning, Water Tiger Clan managed to chase Armorhide and his Defenders back to the Jing Province's Castle. Instead of calling and shouting for help, the Imperial Phoenix Army quickly abandoned and left the castle. They're heading straight back to Imperial Phoenix territories. Their action surprised and shocked the group. "Why would they abandon their castle? That doesn't make sense..." Thunderbold asked in confusion. "An ambush?" Sam asked in concern. Apollo hissed, "If so, the castle should have opened and lured us into it..." "Unlikely..." Riverstrike said in concern. He turned and looked at the Jing Province's Palace. He called, "Whoever you are, come out and reveal yourself now!" As expected, the flag was raised up. The flags has the dragon symbols. The soldiers emerged out as well, led by Master Cooler and a hunchback unicorn pony worn a strawed hat with white scarf covering his face, and also greenish robe while holding the magical staff. They all looked at them. "Hello there!" Master Cooler greeted happily. "What the?! Master Cooler?!" Sam asked in shock, "H-How did you get here?!" "It's easy. I went and visit my friend on the north," Master Cooler said calmly. He smiled, "And Old Pony Pang is happy to help me out. We have recruited many soldiers and secretly taken out most of the commanders, and even pushed Armorhide and his units out." Old Pony Pang laughed heartily, "In other words, thank you for saving us the trouble of getting him out of the castle. Jing Province is under Virtue Dragon's!" Water Tiger Clan gasped and chatted angrily and annoyingly about this. "How dare you?!" Apollo exclaimed in anger, "That castle belongs to us, not yours!" "Skysoar... He did this!" Riverstrike exclaimed in anger. He yelped in pain, upon feeling his wounds on left chest opened and bleeding. He grunted, "Damn it!" Riverstrike fell out from his Dragon Mount, alerting everyone to come and check on him. They all shouted and pleaded him to be alive. Rainbow was in shock and angry to see it. She groaned as she turned and glared at Master Cooler and Old Pony Pang! "SKYSOAR, YOU LYING SNAKE! ONE OF THESE DAYS! YOU'LL PAY FOR IT!" Rainbow shouted angrily. END...