//------------------------------// // Sweetie's Little Steps of a Secret Life: Part 2 // Story: Equestria Lost: Dragons beyond time // by Tythen //------------------------------// "Hi Everyone!!! Welcome to Little Steps of a Secret Life! I'm Sweetie Belle, charming and easy-going guide of the wondrous world of Grastaea!!!" Sweetie greeted, facing her phone. "In this episode, I've got many wonderful friends to assist me. Teens and grown-ups, eager to dive into this enigmatic civilisation lost in time. Say hi you guys!!!" "Oy!" Rainbow Dash called out, "When were we a part of your little video? Rarity just invited us to come; pretty pumped about it too." "Of course I would!" Scootaloo nudged Rainbow, "I really wanted to see this place ever since Sweetie invited me! And is that a freaking volcano in the distance!? Is THIS the reason behind the Earthquake yesterday!?" "Better you don't share this with anyone else but the people around here Scoots," Flash laughed, "And don't worry Rainbow, just go with the flow. Feel free to make some colour commentary or jokes if you feel like it," "Whoever built this castle a fair distance away from the volcano certainly has no fear, and not to mention it's right next to a mountain that reaches the clouds! I still can't believe no one can see it outside this place. For a kind of magic that can't be traced by normal means or Equestrian Magic is certainly something!" Twilight's eyes scanned around, "Then you should listen very closely to when Sweetie's going to be talking about mana, Ms Twilight" Ms M, dressed in her teacher clothes, laughed. "Or I can give you an extra lesson!" "Ooh! Like the little pieces of bread?" Pinkie squealed, "Are we going to eat them after? I'd always like to try new things!!!" "Well, you two? This is the place Ah've been hangin' out in." Big McIntosh walked into view, followed by his two younger sisters. "Nothin' nerdy 'bout it." "Never said y'all were nerdy," Applejack responded, "But this definitely feels like the medieval fantasy times. Ah really like it!" "It's like the movies we watch at home." Applebloom laughed, "Are there any goblins or elves here?" "Well, we have Sylvans," Cleo nervously answered, "We tend to live in the forests and a majority of them often uses bows for combat. At the same time, other sylvans live in cities alongside humans, and carry out the same occupation." "Do you also happen to have other exotic animals?" Fluttershy prompted, "Aside from dragons of course." "That will be tricky. I've seen animals from Canterlot and the rest of the world perch here for a rest. It will take an animal expert to tell which is which. Although if you're willing to try, I can assist you." "It's great to see you again Adagio! You... haven't changed!" Sunset nervously struck a conversation, "Neither have you." Adagio glared back, "Hey look, I'm sure Rarity has told you that we're looking out for our school. Right?" "Since when was I thinking about the past?" Adagio snapped, "I'm just making sure you guys don't mess anything up in the Halidom." "I stand corrected. You have changed! At least, your priorities!" Sunset laughed in response, "Don't worry. Rarity told us everything. I'll be on my best behaviour, though... I'd be happy if you were our guide too!" "I knew you'd say that." Adagio groaned, "Sweetie blackmailed me into helping her, and Cleo said she'll be very happy to do so. She thinks it's a way for me to reconcile with my past." "And there you go!" Sweetie concluded, "Now without further ado, let's go!!!" The Interior Halidom "This is the throne room of New Alberia!" Sweetie presented. "As you can see, there's a little flair to this area without just looking like some generic long hall. First off, it's the ceiling that's rather far away!" The girls and guys on the tour look up and looked amazed. The throne room was about five stories tall, and the walls above their heads have a combination of small balconies and alcoves, with the alcoves having seats inside it. The throne itself was on an elevated position, with a very tiny flight of stairs and rails leading up to it. "The throne room looks like a theatre hall. It looks nice since you can fit many people in for a court hearing or whatnot." Flash described, "The throne room is used for many purposes. It's a place to set up festivals, social events, musical concerts, galas, anniversaries. We managed to fit a giant cake that I made by myself, and not to mention getting teapots to fly around and offer tea to anyone who feels like it." Cleo explained, "Your Prince seems to party a lot. What do you do normally?" Sunset asked, "From where I'm from, the princesses would always sit on their thrones with guards on their sides, probably heeding messages or doing administrations." "If Notte were here, she'd probably say that it's boring for Euden or any other royals to sit down, maybe even make a joke about the year," Cleo explained, "But as said, this room is made for many purposes; serious or casual." "I feel I would get along with this Notte!" Pinkie chimed in, "Does Eudie sit down all day, even for 'casual purposes'?" "No. He's quite an active person, he rarely sits on a throne. In fact, he doesn't hang out around here all the time. He'd go to the kitchen, the store, the tavern, any shared dorm, just like what we and all the people living in the Halidom do." Cleo continued, "We'd stand quite close in the throne room and talk about what's been going on in our lives..." She smiles and laughs, "... all while bobbing our heads from side to side..." "Ms Cleo?" Big Mac clicked his fingers, "Oh!" Cleo jumped, "My apologies. I was just at peace for a while there. Why don't we head off to the art gallery next?" "The art gallery!" Sweetie cheered, "The Halidom has a wonderful art collection; a trove of marvellous paintings composed of artists way before our time. Isn't it wonderful? Why don't we take a look and see what strikes the interest of my friends!" "The Davian Wetlands, Lakeside Euphony..." Fluttershy read some of the painting titles. "Aromatherapy? Old Harp? The--The Halidom's Picnic?" She giggled, "The artists certainly like to draw anything they feel like. And yet... It's really charming to see an artistic flair to everyday activities and life." "Hey! Check it out! Some pictures with the silver frames have you on it, Ms M!" Pinkie Pie pointed to another wall of paintings "Is that your close friend? She dresses rather scantily, but it shows that she's got a neat cup size! Did this take place at a cosplay cafe? What were the two you trying to dress up as? Also, I REALLY love your friend's dogs! They're so cute as they're eating and drinking! But uhh... Wouldn't that kill them?" "Glad to see you've got lots of questions Pinkie," Ms M laughed, "This is one of my fellow friends Cerberus, and her dogs Coco and Mimi. This painting was us in a Fireside Gathering. That's also what this painting is called by the way." "Cerberus?" Sunset perked up, "Huh. Is that her nickname?" "Oh no! That's her real name!" Ms M expanded, "She's a dragon," "That makes things even more complicated." Sunset peered closer, "Now that I take notice of her 'ears' and the dogs with her, I can certainly see why she's called Cerberus. However, the fact she's called a dragon puzzles me. I wouldn't call her an actual Cerberus either from where I'm from..." "Hmm..." Cleo strolled over, "I've heard little about where you come from thanks to Adagio. There are beings from both our words that seem to share the same name..." "These paintings tell a lot about the cultures of New Alberia. As you can see, they celebrate the same festivals as ours!" Sweetie pointed to yet another line of paintings, but this time with gold frames. "No kidding! This looks like you celebrating Hearth's Warming Eve!" Rarity pointed out, "And that's you down there Ms Cleo. I really like your Hearth's Warming Eve outfit! Did you make it yourself?" "Yes. I still have it here too!" "Aww..." Sweetie moaned, "But the way you positioned your arms covered up your belly button. Dang it!" "Fine, I'll tell everyone watching. My 'Hearth's Warming' Dragonyule costume does bear my midriff." Cleo rolls her eyes, "Yes!!!" Sweetie cheered, "Just because I rarely follow Sylvan fashion trends does not mean I'm not one of them," Cleo glared. "By the way, is the prince in any of these pictures?" Twilight asked, "On the same picture that Sweetie's looking at, he's the blond guy with a long cowlick, putting on that little crown made out of decorations," Flash answered, "Him???" Twilight took a close look, "His face looks too kind and compassionate, and he doesn't have that regal air around him. Also, it looks like he's wearing a hoodie." "That is what everyone said when they first met him, but appearances can be deceiving." Cleo responded, "He has the power to turn into any dragon that he makes a pact with, and he could share that power to others too." "Oh, that's really cool!" Rainbow, Applebloom and Scootaloo exclaimed, "But it's his kind and compassionate heart, with a tinge of justice, that even the shadiest character joined him and adapted their behaviour." "Ohhh..." "Hey, can I ask a question?" Rainbow pointed to a silver-framed painting of two women smiling together named 'Glittering Dragonyule', "Are they humans or dragons? It looks too real to be just cosplaying..." "Yep," Flash took a quick look and nodded, "They are dragons. The left one is new to me, but you're right to say that their 'cosplay' looks real; horns and long ears. The woman on the right, however, is Jeanne d'Arc again! Is she wearing more than just her armour?" "For the Dragonyule festival, or Hearth's Warming Eve as you call it. I made this costume on her and Mym's behalf," Cleo answered, "So even Dragons can get down to party!!! I like them already!" Pinkie growled, "Do you have any? Can we see them?" "So uh yeah... If you'd like, I can show you a few images in detail per episode if you like!" Sweetie announced, back onto her phone, The exterior of halidom: Castle Grounds "The group has split up to do their own sightseeing, so I'll just briefly go to the places and show them what's going on!" Sweetie gestured, "Let's go to the vegetable garden. This thing is so big and amazing as it can grow almost any vegetable regardless of the season! Can you believe that? Mangoes! Pineapples! Pumpkins! All fresh and ready when you need it! Let's overhear the three people see if they get anything!" "Well colour me surprised!" Applejack took off her hat, "Explains why yer able to grow so much produce to sell daily! Hats off to you Cleo, Ah can always hold a good and hard Chief cook and bottle washer in high regard!" "Taking care of the Halidom is my utmost duty ever since Alberius," Cleo spoke with dignity, "Though I'm afraid I'm unfamiliar with 'bottle washing'." "Ah never asked this. How are you able to grow different seasonal plants?" Big Mac asked, "It's no secret. Just hard work and dedication. You till the garden and plant the seeds. Then you water them every day. Some grow fully in about 3-5 days. Others may take 2 weeks." "That's even more impressive, but that ain't answerin' the question." Applejack frowned, "What causes them to grow so fast, and protect them from the weather?" "So that's what you mean, my apologies. In that case, examine the soil for yourself." The two country siblings knelt and grabbed a small handful to feel. Sweetie joined in too, squeezing the soil between her palm and fingers. "The soil feels a little normal to the touch..." Applejack investigated, moulding the compost into a ball, "Not sandy, clumps together well. It's standard soil, except--" "I can feel somethin' flowin' through my body," Big Mac interrupted, "You too?" Applejack raised her head, "Yep! I feel it as well!" Sweetie chimed in. The soil was indeed as normal as Sweetie could remember from rubbing it. However, something else was rubbed into her skin and through her senses. It felt like ointment mixed with that earthy and minty sensation, yet it had no odour to come with. "Aside from having good soil bought from the garden centre, exposure to Mana adds more properties that drastically increases growth rate and crop quality, without any use of fertiliser. That being said, it will attract bugs more than often." Cleo explained, "Well, Ah declare..." Applejack laughed, "Ah like yer land!" "Eeyup," Big Mac agreed, "And with that note, let's head to the next part!" "What we have next is the Halidom's former main source of income and nourishment for dragons. The Rupie Mines and the Dragon Tree! These mines produce rupies, which is the currency used in their time. As you can tell from their choice of design, Grastaean civilisation really holds dragons in high regard!" Sweetie informed, She holds up one rupie. It was a tad bigger than the Equestrian bit, but not as thick. As mentioned, the head side was that of a dragon. "I wonder how much these rupies will go for," Twilight mused out loudly, "The minerals that come to make this coin actually has a decent price." "Sounds like we'll get rich either way!!! Say... You don't mind if Ms Cleo would let us have some?" Pinkie asked, "And over here is the Dragontree!" Sweetie gestures to a palm tree with a mix of green and red dragonfruit. "This fruit is part of a Dragon's nutritious diet and a way to extend their limits to their strength!" "Oh wow... I never knew there'd be so many variations! I've examined one for myself..." Fluttershy picked off a big succulent dragonfruit. The skin was bright with a brilliant red, with even white flowers growing on it. "But I can still tell how ripe and soft it is, despite being a fruit from a long time ago! I can see how the animals at the shelter are so fond of them. Now if only I had something to cut it in half... I'd be happy to try it for myself!" "And PSA," Sweetie whispered, "This nutritious energy applies only to dragons. Us humans wouldn't take their juices well. We'd probably die!" "Eep!" Fluttershy jumped, throwing the fruit into the sky, "Y-You should have told me that sooner!" "Excuse me?" Ms M walks into the camera's range, catching the falling dragonfruit, "Who says a dragonfruit is life-threatening to humans? Let me show you that it's safe to eat..." Holding the fruit with one hand, Ms M bites it clean in half with one snap of her jaw. "Here you go!" Ms M passes half of the fruit to Fluttershy while chewing up the half she bit off. Fluttershy stood astounded, so did Sweetie, dropping her phone along the way. "What's with the look? I told you it's not poisonous." Ms M encouraged after swallowing. "Granted, it may not give you strength as it would to dragons, but it's still delicious for all! Go on!" Fluttershy blinked a few more times, then accepted the fruit with slow hands, "Th-Thanks," She said. "Never mind what I said about Dragonfruits! Even humans can eat them! Moving on!" Sweetie nervously chuckled into her phone after picking it up. "Now this place will blow your mind... Behold the altars of the five elements!" Sweetie introduced, The five altars stood firm, with their respective orb floating in the air. Applebloom and Scootaloo looked at each of the orbs with open mouths and wide eyes. How rare is it to see an orb of all things float in the air, and with such mesmerising patterns within! "Flame, Water, Wind, Light, and Shadow..." Sweetie spoke in a mystical tone, "These are the distinct elements of mana that flows through everything that has life; Which I'll explain right after this tour! It is said that these altars are also able to bless and empower anyone who is attuned to their element in their own ways. The Flame ignites fighting spirit, the Water clears the mind, the Wind breathes great wisdom, the Light illuminates the soul, and the Shadow brings out hidden potential. Every person in Grastaea is attuned to one of the five elements, and they can use it to support their daily lives!" "Hey, Sweetie!!!" Applebloom called to her, "Do you know what element you're a part of?" "What? Uhh... what do you mean?" Sweetie turned around, "Since you were talking about how the elements can be a part of humans, I figured you'd have one attuned to you too!" Scootaloo reasoned, "Oh, really? About that..." Sweetie chuckled, "I should add another PSA. The entire elemental attuned thing? That's only seen with natives of Grastaea. As far as I know, it doesn't work with today's humans, we can't even use mana in the first place..." "Aww..." Scootaloo and Applebloom groaned. Behind one of the altars, someone was overhearing their conversation. "Today's humans can't use mana?" Rarity spoke to herself, "I find that... hard to believe... ever since the Volcano. Not to mention I'm feeling something from the Shadow Altar again..." Rarity knew that her thoughts wouldn't be enough, she needed some answers. "Before we end this small landmark tour, there's a pair of training dummies near the edge of the upper level of the castle. That's where the rest of my friends are!" "Hiya! Hah!" Rainbow Dash yells and laughs as she swings a sword around two training dummies mentioned by Sweetie. Sunset watched with a smile, and at a distance. "This is so awesome! I can wield a real sword here!" Rainbow Dash cheered, "Not every bit of it is fake. It feels, moves, and swings like a real sword back in medieval times!!!" "Be careful that you don't lose your grip!" Sunset spoke nicely, "It also hurts and cuts like the real thing!" "Girls?" Flash called from behind, Sweetie and the girls turned to see the blue-haired teenager march towards them with four weapons in his hands and arms, "Here's the rest of the weapons we have Sunset," Flash offloads them next to her; an axe, bow, wand and staff. Then Flash unhooked two weapons hanging on his belt buckle and adds them to the pile. Finally, he reached for his back and pulled out a lance, the last remaining weapon to join the pile. "Interesting," Sunset picks up the lance. Almost everything was made in iron, coloured in grey. There's a little surface between the pommel and the spearhead, most likely for better grip. "Wow, puts the lances back home to shame!" Sunset chuckled, "Then again, they never really seem to come in use..." "I don't know what you mean by 'back home', but these are the most standard-issue weapons that the New Alberian army uses. However, there are much stronger weapons that can only be built by dedicated blacksmiths." "Like the one you still have on your back?" Sunset points out to the Strong Halberd, "Mmm-hmm. Ms Cleo said weapons like these are rare to find hanging about, and thus soldiers turn to blacksmiths for crafting new weapons. What's more, is that these weapons can be upgraded even further." "I thought you'd be using the sword Ms Cleo gave you," "Two things." Flash hesitated, "One, I'm more experienced with long two-handed weapons. Two, a weapon like Euden's carries a special meaning to it. I only feel right using it if I asked for his... well... if I could see clearly what he could." CLANG! A spinning soldier's brand passes through Flash's hair and collides with the Halberd behind him, ricocheting into the air. Flash catches it. "Oops! Lost my grip there!" Rainbow rushes over with a laugh, "Sorry about that! Almost took your hair off!" "Not almost, Rainbow..." Flash passed the sword back to Rainbow, smiling with his eyes closed, "You did," The upper half of Flash's hair fell into pieces. All of his spiky strands had been sliced right off, leaving behind a flat top for his hair. Rainbow's face went pale instantly. "Oh My Goddess. I am so sorry! I-I didn't mean to give you a shoddy haircut!" "You wanted to cut my hair in the first place?" Flash innocently tilted his head, "That's very kind of you! But I must agree with you. For the hairdo of a family man, it is rather shoddy. What say I give you a few--" Flash takes the halberd and arms himself in full view. "--pointers for next time?" "I said I'm sorryyyyyyy!!!" Rainbow yelled and takes off. "Ha ha ha!" Flash cheerfully gave pursuit, "I'm only kidding! I know you didn't mean to do it on purpose! I really don't mind! I forgive you!" "Well..." Sunset blinked, "That's a new side of Flash. Sort of... but... It's kinda funny seeing him like this." "For some reason," Sweetie nudged, "I feel like agreeing with you!" Mana: The life-source of Grastaea. "Alright! Here you'll find probably one of the most awesome things that you have never seen anywhere in the land, until today! Mana! As I mentioned earlier, mana is capable of supporting many things in everyday Grastean life. Today, however, we'll be looking at how Mana brings out one's martial and magical abilities! Now I've brought some new people you may not have met. Please come forward!!!" Rarity and Adagio walked into the camera, dressed and essenced as Estelle and Francesca respectively. "These two young women are fighters from the Grastean era, two shining examples of using Mana! This one Estelle. She's a preacher of the Church of Ilia. That's the main religion in Grastaea by the way. Estelle lends her aid in battle as a healer, as that open hand on a stick she wields is her staff! Converting her mana into healing energy isn't the only thing she can use it for. She can also turn part of it into various damaging projectiles. If you'd like!" Estelle took a deep breath and swishes her staff. Every swish launches an orb that sails slowly through the air and fizzles away after travelling a few metres forward. Then Estelle closes her eyes and grips her staff. With a loud war cry, Estelle thrusts her staff and launches the yellow piercing beam. All the spectators clapped earnestly at the show, though most are capable of doing things better, it was still something that excites them greatly. Francesca was next to show her strength. With the Bejeweled Dagger in hand, she performs multiple stabs and slices in less than 5 seconds, a wonderful display of her dexterity; which was something rare to the girls watching. "Now, each of these adventurers has access to certain techniques that can only be unleashed in the heat of battle. It uses a great amount of mana and the element they are attuned to," "If I may come in," Ms M spoke, "These sorts of techniques are known as skills, and I cannot stress to you how powerful they are. Whether they can harm like Francesca's, or heal like Estelle's, whenever they unleash a skill, an invisible veil of mana would envelop them. This veil will make them intangible, and will deflect, nullify or 'phase' over any physical or magical threat until the skill has been completed." "I didn't know that!" Estelle and Francesca spoke in unison. "Become invincible by being weeby? That's so overpowering, and sneaky! I like it!" Pinkie laughed, "I'm... Not sure what you mean by that Pinkie. However, I can say that this veil is not invincible. Many enemies have found ways to break that invisible and intangible veil," Ms M warned, "Be very careful!" "Hey umm... May I say something?" Flash raised a hand, "Yes?" Sweetie and Ms M spoke in unison, "Do you really think it's impossible for humans, of this era, to use mana?" "As far as I know, yes." Sweetie spoke, "Really?" Flash stands up, "May I try?" Everyone looked at him, "Go ahead," Cleo gestured with a hidden smirk on her face, "Having a go is essential!" Ms M gave a thumbs up, winking at Flash. "Okay then..." Flash took a deep breath, "Haaah--" The mystery behind the adventurers' current existence: Essences "Okay, watchers! We're back inside the Halidom. Now what we have here is something extremely top-secret... If you're wondering how people like Estelle and Francesca made it to this day and age, it's because... well... It's hard to not sound frank or blunt, but they have passed away over the many long years." "Let me take over for this one," Ms M walked up, "All of these adventurers have left behind a great deal of legacy, history, and memory to the Kingdom of New Alberia and the Prince. There is a secret place in the Halidom that is able to summon these adventurers and their power - we call them 'essences'. These essences contain everything from their body, their strength, their knowledge, their wisdom. If a human puts an essence into his or her heart, the human would turn into the adventurer with its powers! Like with many things. The more someone walks around in that essence, the memories, skills, and whatnot can be shared with them." "So for example, say if there was an adventurer who's an expert in archery. If I keep walking around in their shoes, I could become an expert archer myself!" "When you put it that way, yes." Ms M nodded, "But you've got limits in your original body. Even if you remember how to use bows and arrows, will you be strong enough to carry a bow let alone fire with it?" "Ah, I see your point." "Now. We're going to this secret place to acquire more essences. Believe it or not, we can't film or take a picture in there at all. Not out of respect, we literally can't." Ms M instructed, "So I'm going to go there and summon them myself! Is it okay if you can wait for a while, Sweetie?" "Ooh! Ooh! I can't wait to see what you pull out! I wonder who's the lucky adventurer we pick?" Sweetie squealed with excitement, "Adventurer? As in just one?" Ms M raised an eyebrow, "How about I bring back TEN?" "Wait... You have enough Wyrmite for ten summons!?" Sweetie gasped, "Even better! I have this!" Ms M pulls out her wallet and takes out a red and gold ticket with the face of a pink-haired faerie and the number ten to show the camera. "This is a tenfold summon voucher. Give it to the summoning lady and she'll summon ten things without even needing to pay a single wyrmite!" "Oh, that is so amazing!!!" "Alright! After that cut, Ms M's come back from the summoning pool, and I've brought along someone who's well versed on the adventurers living in the castle!" "Glad to be of help!" Flat top Flash pointed at the camera with a wink, "Don't do that," Ms M shook her head, "Ms M? If you please show us the results..." Sweetie gestured, "There's no special orb. But this should be a welcome result!" Mym held out a silver tray with ten items. There were. 2 Silver Pactstones 1 Gold Pactstone 4 Blue orbs 2 Gold orbs And a small bowl of water. "Sadly, we can't use the pactstones as of now," Ms M responded, "But don't worry, we can always break these things down into Eldwater! Which is what this bowl contains. But what we're interested are the orbs... Do your thing Flash!" Flash walks forward and gave held one of the orbs in his hands. After a second of guessing and thinking, he nods and goes to the next one. "Okay then," Flash responded, "Pick an essence, I'll take you to the room of who it belongs to." "I'll choose this one!" Sweetie points at one of the gold orbs, "Very well then, follow me." "The adventurer you picked is the Mercurial Lancer, Aeleen." Flash entered a room full of gardening tools, medicinal herbs and equipment, armour, and a winged helmet on the bed. "A lance user attuned to the wind, she is a knight who's extremely skilled with her weapon, although she has a fear when it comes to fighting." He showed Aeleen's biography picture to the two girls, then to the camera. "Why is it that she'd be scared when she can fight?" Sweetie asked, "It's more of a fear in herself," Flash continued, "It is said that in the heat of battle or if she feels hostile, her personality... changes. She becomes a bit bloodthirsty, compared to her kind and mild-manner self. She's been helping Ms Cleo with the garden, although said bloodlust would come forth when she finds bugs in the crops." "Ooh, that must have been a hard time for Ms Cleo." "Her bio says she also a nurse," Flash continued, "It would explain the medical equipment, but she also brings that expertise to battle. She carries a staff, and for some intriguing reason her elemental attunement is water instead of wind." "..." Sweetie looked at Flash funny, "... I know what you mean," Flash nodded, "How can someone with such a personality shift be able to make it as a nurse? Well, Aeleen was still a kind woman at heart, and it says that she has handled it quite well." "Alright then, next one!" Sweetie points to a blue orb this time, "You picked Zardin, the Hopeless Narcissist," Flash introduced, "Oh Goodness! What is that smell!?" Sweetie held her nose, "That sort of cologne is too much!!!" "He has two jobs. Knight and Beautician." Flash coughed amidst the musky swamp, "As a knight, he's a sword-wielder attuned to water, and carries a mirror for vain purposes wherever he goes. He also fights as a beautician, attuned to light and wielding a blade. For him, beauty is everything. Spill anything on him, mess his hair, or touch his face, and he'll pull away to fix himself before coming back into the fray, with a newfound grudge against whoever did him dirty." "What's a beautician?" Sweetie asked, "The person giving beauty treatments. It can include facials, nail painting, plastic surgery, those sorts of things." Ms M responded, "Well, that explains everything!" Sweetie choked, "I can't take it in this room anymore. The place does look elegant and beautiful, but it smells so good that it's bad! Let's leave!" "This is Alain's room." Flash continued, "Mocked as Captain Craven, Alain was a former military advisor-turned-fighter. His specialty is the strategy and management of falling back. He fights with a lance, and uses flame mana." "Running away huh?" Sweetie looked around. The room was full of tools, items, traps, and maps. "I'm not a fan of 'retreating', but he definitely does come prepared." "Retreat is probably one of the most important things to consider." Flash turned around with a smile, "Have you ever heard of 'live to fight another day'? If people don't want any trouble, then their instinct is to run." "Chill Flash. It's just my opinion. Okay?" "Okay. But I'd like to see if you'd stick to it in the face of danger," Flash chuckled, "Would you send a couple of your friends knowing that they may get injured or perish unless they don't get pulled out?" "Wow, Rainbow was right. You really do retaliate." "You must be aware when lives are at stake." Flash spoke, "Even your own. Otherwise, you'll regret it, just like the time I got clawed in the chest." "And yet you still want to fight them?" "With everything in my body." Flash nodded, taking a deep breath, "And I'd be more than happy to show you that I can." "Okay then, Flash," Sweetie interrupted, "We can talk about that after we finish recording. With everyone." "Okay," Flash relaxed, "This will be fun..." Ms M smirked, "I take it you know what happened too, Ms M?" Sweetie turned around, "I do," Ms M nodded, "Here's Vida!" Flash opened the door, "Wow..." Sweetie blinked. The room was filled with lockpicks and knives, placed in an organised manner, all thanks to Cleo no less, "Is she some sort of psychopath addicted with knives? I feel like I'm looking at the Jester's room here!" "Vida is an amateur thief and an expert in lockpicking. Admittedly, she is called the Knife Fanatic." Flash stated bluntly, "She wants to find the legendary knife or dagger in this case; it's a pity that she never found it before her passing. The collection of knives are obvious in that she uses a dagger to fight, sprinkled with the mana of shadow. In this case, she's very much motivated by legends, biographies and tales. Her main ambition in life is to become a legend like the tales she reads," "It sounds like someone I know..." Sweetie places her chin between her thumb and index finger, "Rainbow Dash?" Ms M answered, "I can see that..." "Oh yeah, you're right!" "Here, we have Nicolas," Flash showed the biography image to the camera, "They call him 'The Walking Encyclopedia'." "Twilight would love this place," Ms M laughed, "It's a haven for her!" "No kidding," Sweetie looked up, "This guy needs to use a ladder in his own bedroom just to get his books!" "He's a high-ranking student of the Caldia Magic Academy... Well, what do you know? There are schools in Grastaea. Again, very obvious, he uses magic via a wand, and given the colour of his clothes and the bio, he's one with the wind like Aeleen," Flash reads, "Now that I mention it," Ms M pondered, "Nicolas is really similar to Twilight as well! I know that any subject that fancies their eye becomes a borderline obsession for study." "I wouldn't put it that far," Flash mellowed, "If she did, she'd be spending less time with the girls, and more like what happened before the Friendship Games. Actually Ms M, were you there for the Friendship Games?" "I started teaching here after the games, but before a majority of the students, and the Principal and Vice-Principal left for Camp Everfree." "However, he does have his reasons for working so hard. And that's because he has a desire to learn magic, but never had the natural talent for it. Staying in the Halidom, he found that living and fighting alongside the prince and the rest of the crew would inch him ever closer to his goal of showing that magic can be learned by anyone, more than just staying cooped up in the library." "Wow, so he really is like our Twilight!" Sweetie smiled, "That's cute!" "So then," Ms M placed Nicolas' essence onto his desk, "We've got the last golden essence. May you show us the way Flash?" "Oh, I think it would be a bigger surprise if he was there at the same time." Flash smiled, "Eh?" Big Mac turns to the sound of an opening door, "What a coincidence Big Mac!" Flash raised his arms in joy, "To think you'd be here at the same time!" "What's up?" Big Mac asked when he saw Flash, Sweetie and Ms M come in, "We've acquired the essence of the man who's baton you're holding!" Ms M answered, "And obviously, the one who lives in this room," "Vixel?" Big Mac smiled, "Nice. Think Ah'd get a chance to take the field usin' him?" "If you want to!" Ms M shrugged, "Tell you what, since you've been given the gift, why don't you read out his bio for us?" Flash offered, "Everything? Then Ah'd be readin' 'til the cows come home!" Big Mac protested, "Then just briefly state what Vixel's about. Element, Weapon, small description and history," Sweetie instructed, "'Kay then," Big Mac nodded, "Mind if Ah do it... fancily?" "Knock yourself out!" The three replied. Big Mac clears his throat, takes a deep breath, and spoke in a very refined and mature tone, taking out that accent. "Vixel is a conductor who's led various choirs and orchestras. Though he does have a rather... troubled past." Big Mac informed, "Additionally, he also plays the violin and piano as an accompaniment. His recent appearance was with the Harmonia Choir, a Choir he joined as a child. Ever since the Prince helped the Harmonia Choir through a dangerous incident, he became a part of New Alberia's allies." Big Mac takes a deep breath, then continues. "The Musical Maestro offers his staff, healing power, and the mana of light to the battle. In other words, he's quite similar to the likes of Estelle." Big Mac closes the bio, "How's that for an introduction?" Big Mac asked, returning to his usual voice. "Wow..." Sweetie blinked, "That voice was like buttered toast!" "Oh my..." Ms M blushed, "I knew you were a part of the Pony Tones, but I never knew you had a way with voices. If you're trying to make me swoon, it's working." "It's no biggie," Big Mac chuckled, "By the way, why did you end up with a bowl of Eldwater from the summoning?" Sweetie asked, "Any duplicate essence of an adventurer will turn into Eldwater." Ms M answered, "As such, the essence that got replaced is an essence that we already have." "Ahh..." The three teens nodded, "Say, do you have another of those tenfold vouchers?" Sweetie asked, "It's the only one I have on me, they don't grow on trees." Ms M frowned, "At least not in this time of the year." And that marked the end of the episode. The girls and guys pass around Sweetie's phone, wondering what Sweetie had recorded. "It's more like a vlog in the beginning, and it only becomes a presentation when you talk about mana and those essences..." Rarity replied, "Then again, I really can't judge which is better since this video skit is not a part of your assessments anymore." "I'll keep on experimenting," Sweetie replied, "If that's alright with you," "Hey Sweetie, can you please cut out the part where I accidentally lopped Flash's hair off?" Rainbow nervously requested, "I insist you keep it!" Flash laughed, "Forgiveness without forgetting is actually a better thing than forgiving and forgetting. Of course, it's not supposed to keep a grudge, but it does prevent a friendship from making the same mistakes." "Besides, not everyone is cool all the time," Applejack laughed, "Ah think it's better that you have yer clumsy moments! It's what we like about you!" "Oh, that's comforting..." Rainbow grumbled, "Ooh! Speaking of looking clumsy. Why don't you give the Vida essence a try Rainbow?" Pinkie suggested, "And you can try Nicolas' Twily!" "Uhh..." The two girls blushed, "I'd... rather not." Twilight declined, "I'd be wearing someone else's skin, and that's absolutely disgusting. So hard pass!" Rainbow declared, "No offence Adagio and Rarity." "Huh, I actually never thought of it that way." Rarity lightened up, "Me too," Adagio agreed, "But I don't think I mind it so much anymore." "To be honest, neither do I!" Rarity winked, "Maybe--it's--the fact that you had to wear them--*gulp*-- to fight back those fiends you've been talking about," Fluttershy suggested while eating the half dragonfruit. "Ms Cleo," Sunset asked, "Is it okay if you'd allow me to come here often? I'd like to learn more about Grastaea." "I'd like to too! It too interesting to pass up such an opportunity," Twilight added, "You are more than welcome," Cleo smiled, "But it would be nice if you do occasionally come for a cup of Honey Tea for a break. I'm happy to talk too!" "Can I join in as well?" Apple Bloom raised her hand, "Now that I've been here, I really feel like coming here more now too!" "As long as it doesn't interrupt your studies now and then," Ms M laughed, "I'm glad you've all enjoyed your time here!" Sweetie thanked, "So uh... I'd like to move onto something important... Flash?" Everyone turned to the teenage boy, "If it's about you deleting the part of me attempting to power up, I'm over it." Flash chuckled, "No Flash. That's exactly what I want to talk to you about, no jokes." Sweetie stared intently, "... I'm listening," Flash nodded, "Do you know the reason why I cut that part out?" "You said that humans in this day and age are unable to harness mana." Flash answered, "But in this case, what I just did disproves that." "Flashy can use mana now!" Scootaloo nudged, "It's basically borderline magic! Cool right?" "You told Scoots 'bout this?" Big Mac asked, "Instead of us?" "Scootaloo is the first person I'd share my secrets to, but I haven't told Mum and Dad," Flash answered, "But since you're all here, I can tell you. After the trip to the volcano, I wanted to go back to the Halidom instead of home to settle an issue. Once that was done, Ms M and Ms Cleo said I was ready. They helped me dig deep into my heart, and unbound the lowest part of the mana circle. You know what I'm talking about right, you two?" Adagio and Rarity nodded, "I feel really light and fast, and I can control a spark within my body." Flash responded, "But I decided to do some 'meditation' before going back home. I've extended some limits of my strength and endurance, learn how to Force Strike with Lances and... I even got my own skill." "Is it related to that blue speck?" Sweetie asked, "Oh yeah," Flash winked, "But it's no longer a speck. The energy stored from sliding the lance on the ground can envelop the entire thing. Then I aim the lance at a particular target and bang. It fires a high-speed cannonball made of lightning that can pierce through even the toughest of fiends. I dub it 'Lance Cannon' and tried it out in the forest." "Lance Cannon? Sounds... dangerous. Kudos for the name!" Rainbow gave a thumbs up. "So you're using a lance." Sunset places a finger to her lips and spoke quietly, "It's like your pony self," "So which element do you belong to?" Applejack asked, "Take a vote. Raise your hand if you think its flame," Flash instructed, "Just tell us Flash," Sweetie frowned, "It's light," Flash revealed. "Called it!" Sweetie and Scootaloo yelled at the same time, "I was leaning on light too by the way," Fluttershy added, "Huh... I was thinking of fire," Rainbow mentioned, "Flame," Cleo corrected, "Same thing," Rainbow shrugged, "But it doesn't end with Flash," Ms M spoke, "Though most of you haven't had any experience in fighting, you've also been taking in mana through all the times you've visited. Adagio? Since you've been here the longest, you should be able to use mana if you put your mind to it, instead of relying on Francesca's body." "Huh..." Adagio stood straight, "Big McIntosh, Sweetie Belle, you've breathed in enough mana for it to affect you. In fact, you've been protected by it recently, Sweetie Belle. Can you remember?" "I do!" Rarity jumped up, "You could still move when Big Mac couldn't! If it was because of mana, then I know how it protected you, my dear little sister. You're attuned to water!" Apple Bloom and Scootaloo gasped, "I-I can use mana already?" Sweetie stammered, stroking a particular part of her cheek. "As far as I can see, it's only been used as an emergency barrier for flame attacks," Ms M corrected, "Wait... Does that mean I can too?" Rarity asked, "But of course!" Ms M turns around, "You've been in New Alberia for as long as your younger sister has! If you wish to work on it, you can easily possess another form of magic!" "Holy hay..." Rainbow hooted, "Major revelation!" "Two magic powers at once..." Sunset repeated, "Equestrian magic and Grastaean magic. And in the human dimension no less!" The four teenagers look at each other. By casually visiting an old enemy trying to reform, the land of Grastaea bestowed to them the gift that all Grastaeans have. Just what are they going to do now? Sweetie's Little Steps of a Secret Life: Part 2 The End? Next chapter: A Fighter in Pain