//------------------------------// // Chapter 31: Fracture // 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 --------------------------------------------- Chapter 31: Fracture "Thanks to the marriage of Virtue Dragon and Tigress, the alliance between two clans has been formed successfully. Thus, Virtue Dragon became part of Tiger Clan," The Narrator narrated, "Despite how infuriated and angered of his plan went awry, Riverstrike strangely remained silence and unmoved of his next plan, and allowing Virtue Dragon to remain inside the palace. What is his plan?" A month has passed since the marriage, Virtue Dragon and Tigress have gotten along well with each other. They not only done some chatting, but also training and sparring in martial arts, using various weapons and riding Dragons Ride across the garden, and taught each other about their hobbies such as Virtue Dragon trained his newly wedded wife about making strawed shoes and clothes while Tigress taught him about gardening and swimming. They became very close to each other especially kissing and spending lots of time in their bed chamber. Unknown to them, Riverstrike, still infuriated and angry over his plan being ruined, remained in his own home as he was sitting down still and meditating calmly. And so far, he hasn't make his own move over a month. Suddenly, a knock was sounded on his wooden door. He called them to come in. He looked up and found Apollo, Sam, Hammerod, Thunderbold, Pirate Scythe, Trip and other officers have entered the bed chamber. "Yes, generals. Is there something wrong?" Riverstrike asked humbly and firmly. "Don't mean to be bothersome, Commander," Apollo said in concern, "But we're concern with you. Ever since Lord Virtue and Tigress got married and stayed in our place, you haven't done anything with it, so far." "Not that we're angry or anything," Sam said uneasily, "Just checking." "I feel very find, my friends," Riverstrike said calmly as he took a sip of his tea, "In fact, I couldn't be any happier and calm." "Why is that?" Apollo asked in concern. Riverstrike smiled, "I'm glad you asked. As you can see, my plan has finally come true." Everyone was confused. He continued, "As you can see, despite some setbacks, there's some advantages to my strategy. Since Lord Virtue's staying, we're going to make sure he's comfortable to love and enjoy our hospitality until he would give up his ambition and everything to us." "I don't get it," Pirate Scythe said in confusion. He got his head whacked by Trip. He grunted, "What the hell, Trip?!" Trip groaned, "Haven't you figure it out? Virtue Dragon's our hostage until we get the Jing Province back." "What again?" Pirate Scythe asked dumbly. Trip sighed, "Why do I bother with you?" "My lord, isn't that against his will?" Hammerod asked in concern, "And not to mention, against our lord's order from treating him like a prisoner?" Riverstrike smiled, "Hammerod, we're not treating Lord Virtue a prisoner. Just extending his staying in our hospitality until we reclaim the Jing Province." "My lord, you cannot be serious!" Sam exclaimed in annoyance, "My lord will not be please of it." "I know. But this is the only idea I can come up with," Riverstrike said firmly and calmly, "Until we reclaimed Jing Province and deal with Skysoar, Virtue Dragon is going to stay here for a long time." Sam groaned, "I've got a bad feeling about this..." --------------------------------------------- Ben's Team and Rainbow's Team were walking down the flower garden. They were chatting and talking to each other that they have managed to evade the crisis and war between two clans, so far. "Glad that everything's back to normal," Ben commented in relief, "And the last thing I want is waging war between us." “Right, I rather be friends than be jerks.” Rainbow comments with a shrug. “If no one else are jerks by now.” Phobos comments dryly. "Now that is over. Think we should head back and ready for next plan?" Applejack asked, "Like finding a way to rescue Twilight and others?" “Yeah, I want to be together again than separated. It ain’t nice.” Apple Bloom complains sadly. “Right.” Ben said with a thoughtful look. “It’s time we do something right now. No more waiting.” And just before Ben's Team and Rainbow's Team could head out, they've heard someone yelling for 'help'. They got rammed and knocked to the ground hard by a familiar figure. "Saber?!" Ben asked in surprise. "You've gotta hide me now!" Saber pleaded fearfully. Everyone was confused. He shouted, "No time! Just hide me! They're going to kill me!" Instead of asking, Ben's Team and Rainbow's Team helped and hid Saber behind the tree while covering it by playing some games and reading some books. Scarblade, Anchor and some soldiers have arrived and entered the garden. They looked and searched around the place while showing angry and serious looks. Anchor turned and looked at Ben's Team and Rainbow's Team. "Have you seen Saber?" Anchor demanded. Applejack kept her mouth shut, she doesn’t want to lie. Rainbow quickly spoke, “Nope. Haven’t seen him. He must’ve stepped out for a smoke.” “A smoke?” “Right, setting things on fire?” "So, what did he do?" Applejack asked. "Intolerable..." Scarblade snarled. Anchor nodded, "Indeed. He will regret the day for doing such a thing to our princess. And believe me, this hound is gonna rip him to pieces." Anchor, Scarblade and their soldiers headed off to continue their search on Saber. Ben's Team and Rainbow's Team sighed in relief as they let Saber come out from his hiding place. "Thanks for the save, guys." Saber thanked in relief. "No problem. But seriously, what the heck was that about?" Ben asked in confusion. “Right, why are you freaking out all of the s udden?” Twist ask, confused as the others. Saber gulped uneasily and fearfully, "Well, something that is very embarrassing for me to say. Something that I really regret..." "What is it?" Rainbow asked impatiently. Saber gulped while his face burnt in red, "I sort of kiss, slept and have fun together with Aqua in her bed chamber." Everyone was in shock and surprised of what they just heard. They then laughed out loud amusingly and crazily. Apple Bloom, Twist and even Phobos were confused and uncertain of it. Saber was annoyed and embarrassed of telling them about it. --------------------------------------------- Rainbow laughed out loud, "I can't believe that you did that! This is so hilarious!" Rainbow, Rarity and Sunset have arrived and returned to Aqua's bed chamber. They were discussing and chatting with Aqua about her last night sleepover with Saber. This annoyed and frustrated her a lot. "Yeah, laugh it up while you still can, Rainbow," Aqua said in annoyance, "Coz the last pony will get it is me. You get me?" "Yeah, yeah, yeah, we get it," Rainbow joked amusingly, "Man, you're quite popular with boys and girls especially Saber, Blazefist and Asami." “Right, like me being popular with both boys and girls. I’m sexy.” Sunset comments happily. Her friends gave her an odd look. “Yeah, I’m bi. Got a problem?” “No, darling. Just surprised by it.” Rarity remarks to Sunset with a shrug. “Yeah, so is Fluttershy. Get over it!” Rainbow added with a shrug. Aqua groaned, "Please, stop embarrassing me. The last thing I want is get another lecture from my brother." And just before they could continue their discussion, Rainbow and her friends heard some noise. They leaned against the door to listen and eavesdropped on the discussion from the outside. "Can you believe it? I don't know what's the worst. Getting into more trouble or Riverstrike's asking for war," Wiserton's voice asked in frustration, "Has he gone mad?" "Mad with Skysoar, no doubt. That fool needs to get over it," Sam's voice said angrily. "But my lord, Lord Riverstrike's merely doing his duty is to protect and defend our home. In fact, holding Virtue Dragon here longer doesn't consider to be a crime," Thunderbold's voice said firmly, "Until we get the Jing back." Sam's voice scoffed, "Better hope that no one harms or kills him, unless you're asking for trouble." As soon as Sam and his colleagues walked and passing the bed chamber, Rainbow groaned, "I can't believe it! No wonder he hasn't make a move. He wanted to hold Virtue Dragon a hostage!" “I knew it wouldn’t last long.” Sunset remarks, shaking her head. “If it happens, we’re all bucked.” "What are we gonna do?" Rarity asked in concern. Aqua sighed, "There is one thing to do. My sister and Virtue have to get out of here as soon as possible." “You really wish to do that?” Sunset ask Aqua in concern. “Right, this could make things difficult darling.” Rarity remarks in agreement. "I don't like it," Aqua admitted in concern, "It's for the best." --------------------------------------------- Rainbow and her friends met up with Virtue Dragon, Ben and his friends inside the bed chamber, and also making sure that no one from Water Tiger Kingdom is aware of their secret discussion. Rainbow, Rarity, Sunset and Aqua explained the situation to the, which shocked and annoyed them. "He's still at it," Ben asked angrily. “Even with the alliance and marriage, he won’t go down!” Rainbow admits with an angry grunt. “If he succeeds, it will all be for naught.” Sunset added seriously to her friends. "That guy's got issue with Skysoar a lot..." Soarin commented in concern. Virtue Dragon hummed in concern, "This is not good. We cannot stay here much longer. We have to return home as soon as possible. After all, we're still at war against Azure Phoenix." "Not to mention, he still seeking out for revenge," Dragonspear added in concern. “And Twilight is still being held by that jerk!” Ben complains angrily. “Calm down, dude.” Soarin’ said to Ben in worry. “We will get her back somehow.” “I wish I could believe you. I feel like we have been doing this for a long LONG time, as well as separation.” "So, we must find a way to get out," Virtue Dragon said firmly. He turned to Tigress, "Milady, I understand if you don't wish to leave your home behind-!" Tigress interrupted, "Save it, Virtue. I'm going." "You sure, sis?" Aqua asked. Tigress nodded, "I am. After all, wife must and will follow their husband, be either the battlefield or trip. And besides, I've always wanted to see what kind of world out there. I'm looking forward for new adventure." “Oh yeah, I feel ya.” Rainbow remarks, making Tigress look at her oddly. “As in I know how you feel.” “Oh, you ponies speak weirdly.” “I can dig it.” "Still how the heck are we gonna get out of here?" Caramel asked, "Even if we asked Courage Tiger's permission to leave, Riverstrike will chase after us. I doubt he's gonna let us go so easily." “If we’re all together, we will deal with this problem in no time.” Sunset comments as she scratches her chin with us. “We may have to wing it.” “Or hoof it. Give or take.” Rarity added. "Uh. We've got the princess with us. No way those guys would dare to challenge her," Brian said playfully. "Yeah. Like that's gonna happen," Phobos remarked dryly. "Actually, it is," Dragonspear said calmly. He was reading another scroll from his second pouch, "According to Skysoar's plan, Tigress will help and guide us to safety because her position is higher than Riverstrike's rank, therefore, the generals have little chance to defy her." "Wow. For once, Skysoar's really save our flank," Pinkie commented, "He thought of everything!" “Except not being a dick.” Rainbow remarks dryly. “Rainbow, matters!” Aqua scolded her friend. “But you’re right. He’s a dick. Whatever that means.” "Guess it's settle then," Virtue Dragon said firmly. He turned to Tigress, "Milady, would you talk with your brother about it?" Tigress smiled, "Of course, leave everything to me. Just get everything packed. We'll be leaving soon." --------------------------------------------- Virtue Dragon, Tigress and their friends went to throne chamber, meeting and getting audience with Courage Tiger. They've found him in drunkard state as he was drinking lots and lots of wine. He even hiccuped a lot. “Hoo boy, he’s drinking again.” Rainbow remarks, rolling her eyes at this. “Warpath and Rainbow’s drinking habits are bad enough.” Rarity added with a sigh. “Hey, my drinking isn’t that bad!” “You collapsed and made a cloud quake one time. Don’t get me into that!” "Again, Courage?!" Tigress asked in annoyance. She groaned, "One of these days, your drinking habit is gonna get you into trouble. And trust me, it's not gonna be pleasant too." Courage Tiger groaned a bit as he was recovering, "Sorry, Aqua. I-I'm just too happy that my little sister got married. I drank lots of wines to celebrate for her marriage with my newly brother-in-law." He then cried tearfully, "I'm also sad that she has to leave soon. The last thing I want is hurt her a lot! And of course, I still don't trust that pigass for lying and treating me like a too, just like Jing and Marriage! I'm still pissed! He will mistreat and hurt her a lot! F#&* Up Jackass!" "Still drunk?" Phobos asked. “Right, you still a clear head.” Sunset comments with a giggle. “You’re one to talk.” Ben grunts a bit. Sunset has a bit of a drinking problem herself. "Lord Courage Tiger, I assure you that I will do no such thing," Virtue Dragon said firmly, "You have my word." Tigress approached to Courage Tiger as she looked at him, "And I appreciate it for you to look after me a lot. You're the best brother that I could ever have. And now it's time for me to leave my home and go with my new life." "You're lying, liar!" Courage Tiger cried tearfully while in drunkard state. "No, brother. I'm not." Tigress said firmly. "In that case," Courage Tiger sighed as he gave Tigress a warm hug, "Take very good care of yourself, sister. I'm happy that you got a husband." He turned and glared at Virtue Dragon, "If you screw anything up, I'm coming to f#$^ you up, asshole!" “Whoa! In his drunken state, he will kill anyone!” Rainbow comments nervously as she backs away. “I still just be over here.” “Funny yet dangerous.” Phobos jokes. Virtue Dragon bowed humbly, "Do not worry. Everything will be fine." Saying goodbye to him, Virtue Dragon and his friends turned and left the throne chamber. Courage Tiger continued drinking his wines happily and wildly. Saber and Aqua were the last group to leave. "I guess this is it?" Saber asked. "Eeyup, It is," Aqua agreed. She then nudged Saber's shoulder, "You'd better take care of my sister. Because if I find out about the mess, I'll come and kill you. Trust me. I can be nasty." "Got it. But you did enjoy our night together from last night. Think we could do it again when we get married?" Saber asked playfully. Aqua was annoyed as she gave a kick on his bottom part. He yelped in pain, "Great Dragon's Ass! You don't have to hit my sensitive part! Seriously! That hurt." Aqua scoffed, "Don't push my luck, Saber. We stay friends, alright? So, whatever happen last night, we're just drunk and done silly stuffs I rather not talk about." Saber groaned, "Fine. I get it. I hope to see you again." "Me too, Saber, Me too," Aqua agreed. And just before Saber could do anything, she held and gave him a kiss on his cheek. She scoffed, "That's just goodbye kiss, not lovely, okay?" Saber shrugged, "Whatever you say, kitty." Rainbow awed, "Ooh! That's something." “I wouldn’t be surprised if Aqua ended up kissing Saber.” Sunset giggled to her friends who laughs. Yes, Aqua ended up with Blazefist, but it would be funny. “K-I-S-S-I-N-G, ponies!” Aqua groaned in annoyance, "Shut up." ------------- "WHAT?! They've escaped?! Our lord let him go?!" Riverstrike received the latest report from his scout. He was furious and angry about it. He gathered all of his officers in his quarter chamber. Riverstrike groaned, "This is unacceptable! We have to stop them now! They must be brought back here at once!" The officers including Seaheal and Sam were in shock and concern of Riverstrike's order. "My lord, you cannot be serious!" Sam was the first to protest this demand. "I agree. If you go behind your lord's order again or even worst - your wounds are yet to heal, you'd be in grave danger." Sealheal added seriously. "No. This is only on chance that we cannot afford to lose. We will get Jing Province, even if it means we have to start the war and kill them personally!" Riverstrike exclaims sternly. If he has to start a war to get what he wants, so be it. "My lord!" The officer exclaims as they bow to their lord. They hate the idea but these ponies got no choice. "All units, prepare to move out! Scythe! Trip! You two will go ahead first! Thunderbold and Hammerod will follow you. We will join with you soon. No matter what, don't stop until you capture them. The orders are directly come from me only. Do you understand?!" Pirate Scythe smirks as he spoke, "No problem. I can take care of them." Trip groaned, "I've got a bad feeling about this." -------------- Virtue Dragon, Tigress, Saber, Dragonspear and Ben's Team have packed up their stuffs and left the Tiger Fury Castle. They're heading straight to the docks at once, so they can return to Jing Province safely. Saber, Ben, Applejack and Caramel were on the front, leading the soldiers. Virtue Dragon, Tigress, Apple Bloom, Twist and Phobos were inside the carriage. Dragonspear, Pinkie and Brian were on the rear. And so far, there was no sign of troubles or any Water Tiger Soldiers stopping them. "So far, so good. Looks like we're safe." Caramel comments in relief. "Right, we done should get smooth sailing from here." Apple Bloom admits cheerfully. "Yeah, no more jerks to deal with!" Phobos remarks with an eager laugh. Ben on the other hoof frowns as he spoke, "Don't hold your breathe. We're not out of danger yet." Applejack agrees, "Yeah. Trouble's about to start." Brian noticed a squadron of Water Tiger Soldiers coming towards them. He yelped, "We've got incoming." "Oh great! Why did we have to jinx it," Twist groans in despair. Just when they think they are in the clear, this happens. "I guess it's true. It is too good to be true." "What's next? Run like a chicken?" Phobos ask his friends nervously. There's too many to fight here, they will be crushed! Caramel spoke out in concern, "Think we should fight?" "No. If we fight them, we might provoke them into a big fight. It's best to escape." Saber points out seriously, knowing the truth here: fighting these guys will provoke them. Best to get out of here. Phobos scoffed, "Well, that's terrific. Any more of your f#&% ideas now?" Everyone looked and glared at him. "What? We use cursed words a lot, even present time." "Hold on. There's a way." Dragonspear said thoughtfully as he took and opened the pouch. He read the scroll)" According to Lord Skysoar, to escape the predicament, we need Lady Tigress to force them to back off until we reach our rendezvous point." "I see. Milady, will you-?" Virtue Dragon say as he turns his attention to Tigress. Tigress cuts him off as she spoke, "Say no more. I'll talk into them. Halt for the moment." Virtue Dragon's Forced halted for the moment. Pirate Scythe and Trio have arrived and intercepted them. Both of them climbed down from the Dragon Ride. They then approached to Virtue Dragon's forces. They then found Tigress stood before them. They bowed to the ground. "What are you doing here?" Tigress demands more than she asked. Pirate Scythe spoke seriously, "Sorry, Princess. But we need you to come back at once." Trip nodded as he explains, "Yeah, our lord say that both you and your husband should stay behind for few more days to enjoy the hospitality." Tigress just scoffs at this, "Funny... If I recall correctly, my brother allowed us to leave and return home. In fact, he doesn't even say anything about demanding us to stay behind for hospitality." Pirate Scythe gave an awkward chuckle as he spoke, "Well... Yeah, about that..." Trip in concern explains, "Milady, we can explain. I'm sure our lord-!" Tigress cut him off, hissing, "Tell, Riverstrike, stop this nonsense or else I will make report to my brother. Or worse, I could have you both executed." Pirate Scythe and Trip became uneasy and scared as they didn't make a move. " Leave now!" Virtue Dragon's Forces continued marching off. Pirate Scythe and Trip remained unmoved and bowed to the ground. As soon as they leave, both Water Tiger Officers stood up and glared at each other. Pirate Scythe groans out to Trip in disbelief, "Really? 'Our lord say you should stay behind'? Are you that dumb or something?!" Trip protests, "I don't see you coming up with the idea?!" Thunderbold, Hammerod and their forces have arrived at the scene. Thunderbold demands angrily, "What happen?! Where're Princess and Virtue?! " Trip laughed uneasily, "Yeah. We might have a situation problem..." Pirate Scythe points a hoof at Trip, insisting, "It's his fault for letting them go." "What?! Hey!" Thunderbold groaned, "Unbelievable. Move out now. We can't afford to let them escape again!" Pirate Scythe and Trip nodded firmly as they joined up with Thunderbold's squadron. They then gave pursuit on Virtue Dragon's Forces. Few meters passed, they have found and catch up to them. Thunderbold and his units halted at once as they found Tigress climbed down and approached them. Tigress demands angrily, "What's the meaning of this?! Are you demanding me and my husband to return?!" Thunderbold spoke seriously, "With respect, milady, this is for your own good. Please, return to us at once." "No, I will not." "But milady!" Tigress holds out a hoof, snarling at the ones who are trying to force her and her husband's return, "Don't make me repeat this again. Tell Riverstrike to stop this nonsense now. What's done is done. There's no point of starting the fight. Leave now!" Thunderbold groaned, "As you wish..." Virtue Dragon's Forces continued marching and moved away from Thunderbold and his units. Riverstrike and his main units have arrived at the scene. "You let them escaped?" Riverstrike demanded but he doesn't need an answer. Thunderbold and his units remained silent. He groaned. "Do not falter! Give chase!" Riverstrike and his units marched and trotted to chase and hunt down Virtue Dragon's Forces. Virtue Dragon's Forces are miles away from Riverstrike's "You go, girl!" Phobos cheers on wildly. Tigress has really told those soldiers off! "Yeah! We thought we were done for!" Twist exclaims happily. "Yep, oh yeah, two hooves up, way up!" Brian laughs as he holds up two hooves into the air, making his friends laughs. "Right, but will it work?" Applejack ask Tigress, noting a serious look on her face. "Not for long, huh?" Tigress nodded seriously as she answers, "I don't know how much longer I can stall and demand them to return. Riverstrike will no doubt coming for us." "Yeah, no surprise." "We should keep going." Ben said seriously. "But I can tell they won't hold back for long." "Right, if they are like some of the big stupid heads we deal with, they are stubborn as mules." Apple Bloom added. "No offense to the mule of course." "What are we gonna do?" Brian ask seriously and worried. Pinkie spoke out in agreement, "Yeah. Party's not gonna make him happy and forget it too." "Wow. Pinkie's not making a joke. That's scary." Phobos spoke in a shiver. When Pinkie is like this, she can be very scary. "Fighting back will get us killed, that's for sure." Caramel spoke in worry. "And we may not escape for long." "I rather stay away from those guys than fighting!" "We have to reach the docks now. We can't afford to stop." Virtue Dragon spoke seriously. Once they get to the docks and get away, they should be safe. "Yeah. I hope Skysoar has another trick up in his sleeve." Ben spoke with a sigh. He hates to admit it, but he will need that pony's idea right about now. "Don't worry. He always has." Dragonspear explains thoughtfully. "In fact, he told us head to the edge of the cliff." "What for?" Caramel ask Dragonspear curiously. "Jump over it." "WHAT?!" Most of the present ones spoke out in shock and disbelief. Jump over a cliff?! Is he crazy?! "I knew it! Skysoar wants to kill us!" Phobos groans out in despair. "We're little foals!" Apple Bloom exclaims in horror. "We can be going off cliffs!" "Are you out of your hay picking mind?!' Applejack protests to Dragonspear in anger. "We got vermints chasing us and you want us jumping off a cliff?!" " We don't have much a choice. In fact, the enemies have blocked everything. And our only hope is to jump over it." Dragonspear counters this protest. Phobos looks back, looking worried as he points out, "Well, you'd better think fast! We've got company!" Virtue Dragon's Forces turned and found Riverstrike and his forces have arrived. They're getting closer to them. Dragonspear turns to Virtue Dragon, insisting, "My lord, we have to do this." Saber sighs in defeat, "We don't have much a choice." "Jump over a cliff." Pinkie remarks with a scoff. "Funny in Wile E. Coyote cartoons. Not here." "No time for random stuff, Pinkie." Ben groans to his friend in annoyance. "Still, she's right. Not funny." Virtue Dragon sighed, "Do it." Virtue Dragon's Forces turned and headed straight to the cliff. This shocked and surprised Riverstrike and his main forces. Nevertheless, they gave chase on them Reaching to the cliff, Virtue Dragon's Forces jumped over the cliff. This action shocked Riverstrike and his forces. They approached to the cliff to see if they're alive or not. And to their shock, Riverstrike and his forces have found two flagships below them. They even found Virtue Dragon's Forces are alive, thanks to Skysoar and his Unicorn Soldiers to use levitation on them to land on the ground safely. Skysoar with a grin spoke, "Right on schedule." Applejack groans in embarrassment, "I can't believe I'm gonna say this. But thank you." "Yeah, you saved our flanks." Ben sighs in admittance. "Don't make a habit out of it though." "Right, we still got issues with you." Skysoar chose to ignore the comments, speaking, "We're not out of the woods yet. Veteran Shot, Gusty, Smolder, get us out of here!" Veteran Shot bows as he exclaims, "Will do!" As ordered, Veteran Shot and his team gotten into their positions as they turned and sailed their flagships away from the Water Tiger Clan's territory. Riverstrike groaned, "No! I refused to lose." The pony coughed and vomited so much of blood out. He coughed heavily. "Get me the ship! We're going after them." Sam protests in horror, "But my lord! Your condition-!" "Get me the ship! NOW!" ------------------------------ Courage Tiger snored out loud and happily after he drank too much of the wines. Rainbow's Team, Aqua, Anchor and Scarblade have tried everything to wake him. Rainbow groans out, "What's with this guy? Isn't there anything we can to wake this nutcase up? We've tried water and loud noise." "Could be worst." Aqua remarks with a sigh. "We got to wake him up somehow!" Anchor hummed thoughtfully, "I might have the idea. And he will not be pleased." "Okay, so what do you got in mind?" Rainbow ask Anchor, curious if she wanted to know or not. "Watch." Anchor approached to Courage Tiger. He took out a large pin as he thrust it at his flank, making the Lord of Water Tiger Clan yelped and screamed in pain. Courage Tiger screams out, "What the hell?! What did you do that for?! Wait! Why am I wet?!" Rainbow chuckles uneasily, "Later. We need your help now. Riverstrike's gone crazy again. He's chasing after Virtue Dragon and his buddies." "Right, and in his condition, he isn't in any position to do that." Aqua admits seriously. "In short, he is driven to suicide here!" "What?! That idiot! When will that ever get through his thick skull?!" Courage Tiger exclaims angrily as he got out of bed. "Sent forces out now. We're bring that idiot home before he caused more problems." "Oh yeah, that will be the day." Rainbow remarks with a slight chuckle. This oughta be good. -------- Hours have passed, Virtue Dragon's Flagships have arrived and reached to Jing Province's Docks. And just before they could landed at the area, they heard banging drums. They turned back and found Riverstrike and his navy forces have arrived at the scene. Riverstrike gave a mad look as he screams "It's over now, Skysoar! I have you now!" Phobos groans out in disbelief, "Damn it! Is this guy crazy?! Since when did he ever go crazy?!" "Since he failed to get Jing Province..." Ben said seriously. "And can you blame him?" Caramel ask seriously as well. "Everything went to Tartarus for him. This was the last straw." "And he's going to get us just to get to him." Twist groans out. Skysoar calls out to Riverstrike as if trying to reason with him, "Riverstrike, this madness must be stopped now." Riverstrike spoke out crazily, "It will stop. Return what is rightfully belong to us. Then, we shall spare you." "I'm afraid we cannot do that." "So be it. Let's end this." "Listen to reason, Riverstrike. You must return home before it's too late. The enemy will attack it sooner or later. Return to Wuhu River now." Skysoar ordered sternly to Riverstrike. Riverstrike growls madly, "Not until I have your head on my lap. Prepare to die." Skysoar sighed, "I have hoped that I do not wish to come to this... Smolder, light the signal." "Guess there's no way out." Smolder remarked with a shrug. If Riverstrike won't listen to reason, may Faust have mercy on his soul. Smolder fired and launched the fireball into the sky, which exploded. As signaled, more of Dragon Naval Ships emerged out from the hiding place as they surrounded Water Tiger Navy. All of them armed with their weapons for battle against the intruders. This shocked and scared Riverstrike and his forces as they're surrounded and trapped now. "No... This can't be happening. It can't be the end!" Riverstrike suddenly gasp as he felt his chest pain, he coughed and spilled more blood out to the ground. "Damn it!" Riverstrike fell on his back. His officers screamed and called out on him. They all cried tearfully and frantically to see their Commander-in-Chief terribly injured. "Gah! What happened to him?" Smolder ask in alarm. "Hey, you okay, Riverstrike?" Twist called out worry. "River?" Skysoar sighed, "That fool... He shouldn't have pushed himself. I wish he hadn't done that in the first place." "What do you mean?" Ben ask Skysoar, he got a bad feeling about this. "His wounds have yet recovered from the arrow." "Seriously?!" Applejack calls out in shock and disbelief. "He should've rested! And I thought I was stubborn!" "Now Riverstrike is going to die." Brian comments grimly. "All because he refused to let something go." "I'm afraid to ask but what else could go wrong today?" Caramel ask with a groan, fearing he will hate his answer. As if to answer Caramel's question the hard way, Gutsy calls out in alarm, "Enemy!" Virtue Dragon's Forces looked up and found more of navy forces have arrived at the scene. "More enemies?!" Dragonspear ask in shock and alarm. This doesn't look good at all. Skysoar on the other hoof explains, "No. Courage Tiger has come to pick him up as part of our agreement." "Deal? What deal?" Apple Bloom ask Skysoar puzzled. "What sort of deal?" Applejack ask with an arch of the eyebrow, not liking the sound of that. "Before today, I secretly told Rainbow and Ocellus to prepare Courage Tiger to come and pick Riverstrike when he's at great peril. This is the moment. This is something I'd never want to happen." Skysoar explains in what appears to be a genuine sigh of sadness. "You mean..." Starlight gulps, fearing the worst. "I don't know if he ever recovered from it." "Great, looks like this is it." "I know." Ben sighs as he shakes his head. "Poor Riverstrike. He let his obsession for revenge and determination to take Skysoar down be his downfall. How humiliating." "If only he could've waited." Smolder remarks with a sad groan while shaking her head. "What's done is done. Let Lord Courage picked his commander, and let them go." Virtue Dragon said grimly to his allies. Hopefully Riverstrike can make his final peace before he passes on from this mortal coil. "Will be done, my lord." Dragonspear said with a bow as the men prepares to collect Riverstrike's body. "Thank you, Virtue." Tigress thanks as she gave a bow of her own. As ordered, Dragon Navy allowed Courage Tiger to come and pick Riverstrike and his units. They're now heading back to Wuhu River. Riverstrike groans out barely, "My lord... I..." Courage Tiger holds up a hoof as he said, "Save your strength, my friend. You need more rest..." "Courage... I'm so sorry for everything." Rainbow spoke with a sad sigh to her friend, "Yeah....we wish we could've done more." Aqua explains grimly. "So far, this stinks." Courage Tiger sighed, "What's done is dome. All I can hope for is that my friend stayed alive, and hopefully, he won't pull the stunt again." "That's what worries me..." Rainbow mumbles to herself in worry. If Riverstrike does somehow survived this, chances are he will go after Skysoar again. "We can only hope...and pray." ---------- "With Azure Phoenix before them, and Virtue Dragon behind them..." Narrator narrated, "His health deteriorating, Riverstrike put everything he has left into one last strategy. A strategy that would save the kingdom that his fallen friend and Courage Tiger had worked so hard to build. It would be Riverstrike's strategy - sending an apology letter to Skysoar for his mistakes and rebuilding the alliance, with Tigress acted as liaison to two clans and also wife to Virtue Dragon." After rescuing and bringing Riverstrike and his naval units back to Wuhu River Land, the Chief Commander's condition has become worse than before due to him lose his temper, causing his wounds opened and worsened. In his mansion's home, his wife Lady Songbird and the children were sitting besides with him. Courage Tiger, Aqua, Rainbow and her friends have arrived and paid their visit to him. "How is he?" Courage Tiger asked. Lady Songbird sighed, "Not good, I'm afraid. I don't think he can make it." Courage Tiger sighed, "This was my fault. If I've had stop him, then none of this could have happen." “It’s okay, Courage. Isn’t your fault.” “Yes it is.” "No. Don't blame yourself, my lord. The fault lies in me alone..." Riverstrike said weakly and sickly, "I've let my anger and ego especially my rivalry on Skysoar blind me and my perspective. None of you are blamed for this..." "I wish I could have done something..." Rainbow said in guilt. "It does not matter. I've made the last strategy to ensure our kingdom safe and secured," Riverstrike said weakly, "I've already sent my letter to him of my mistakes, and asked Lady Tigress to ensure that Virtue Dragon doesn't attack our home. Her marriage and position as liaison will be as a chain upon Virtue Dragon. It will prevent him from attacking Water Tiger Clan." Courage Tiger sighed, "And they replied that they forgive you, and willing to follow and honor your plan. My sister is happy, even though she's being used as a pawn." "I am not," Aqua said dryly before sighed, "But it's for our home..." “Yeah, we once again got to do something even if we don’t like it.” Rainbow remarks with a groan. “Even Yona won’t go that far.” Yona groans out sadly. Riverstrike sighed weakly as he tried to get up. He was assisted by his wife. He spoke, "As leader of, you have a long way to go to match your father's legacy. And your ambition pales besides that of your brother. And therein lies your strength. Your awareness of your own weakness means you have to put considered plan to win. You maybe weak, cowardly and devious... But in the end, that is why you will be victorious." "What's that supposed to be mean?" Carrie asked. Courage Tiger sighed, "T-That is true... However, your words mean the world to me. I will not forget..." Riverstrike sighed, "Then, I have done all I have to..." And just before anyone could asked, Riverstrike sighed as he gave the last breathe while slowly falling back on his bed. This shocked everyone of what they just saw. They all then cried tearfully and sadly. "My lord! Nooooooo!" Lady Songbird said tearfully. "Riverstrike! Not yet! Not yet!" Courage Tiger said tearfully, "Riverstrike!" "Damn it..." Rainbow cursed angrily. "At least, Yona think it's over..." Yona said in relief. "No, Yona. This is the beginning," Ocellus said in concern, "And I'm worried that things is about to get messy..." --------------------------------------------- At Jing Province's Palace Throne Chamber, Virtue Dragon and his allies including Tigress have received the message from the Water Tiger Envoy. It was reported that Riverstrike has passed away. Tigress cried tearfully. Virtue Dragon comforted her by hugging and patting her. Skysoar sighed, "He should not have done it. We both could have worked and overcome our enemy, instead of this..." He turned and looked at Ben and his friends, "I understand that you all still do not trust me, but you still need us to help and rescue your friends as we need you for saving this land. Without us, you won't able to rescue her especially outnumber against such large numbers. We need to work this together." “Ugh. I hate it when he’s right.” Starlight sighs as she shakes her head. “Still, you know I’m right.” Ben sighed, "Fine. We'll do it. But I'm keeping an eye on you, just to make sure you don't do something stupid again." "Understood..." Skysoar said calmly. "Think we can trust him?" Starlight asked. "No. But we need him to save our friends..." Ben said firmly and calmly. “If he doesn’t backstab us again.” “Wouldn’t put it past him….” --------------------------------------------- At Xuchang Palace, Azure Phoenix was writing down on some documents and proposals on economy and commerce situation especially involving of military, with the assistance of Master Ratio and Woren. Blazefist has arrived and entered the chamber. He bowed to the ground. "Yes, Lieutenant?" Azure Phoenix asked. "I bring news, my lord," Blazefist reported firmly, "The reports have confirmed that Riverstrike has died from his wound." "Really? How did it happen?" "Virtue Dragon and his forces have deceived their own allies, and stolen Jing Province for themselves. The pressure of losing Jing Province to them has put serious strain on his wounds, causing him to die. " Master Ratio hummed, "It appears that Water Tiger Clan and Virtue Dragon aren't truly friends as we think, after all. They merely relied on each other to defeat us." "That is true," Woren said amusingly, "If we can put a wedge on the alliance, then both sides will fight and kill each other. It would be easy for us to finish them off for good." Azure Phoenix gave some thoughts of what his advisors have said. He smirked, "Yes. That is true. We will find and exploit the weakness. When we do, we will turn them on each other. And soon, the land will be unified under our banner. There will be nothing left to stop us..." END...