Rise of the Element Gang, Book 3: Heroes United

by Power of Six

Chapter 24: Brought to Light

I felt much better when I awoke the following morning. The combination of my talk from Luna and a pleasant night’s sleep ensured that most of the bleak, unsure thoughts that had been shifting restlessly in my mind as I was in my bed were gone by the time I felt the warmth of Celestia’s sun streaming in through my window, waking me from my slumber. While yesterday, I just wanted to be alone with my misery, now I wanted nothing more than to see my friends again.

Of course, it wasn’t completely perfect. I still had those twinges of guilt from what I had done to them, as well as the vivid memories of Nightfall’s actions in my mind. But they weren’t at the forefront of my thoughts, more like somewhere at the back, easy to overlook and ignore. I wasn’t going to let them get the better of me today, especially not with the celebration in Canterlot coming up. I was just going to get out there and enjoy the day.

Still…I would have to deal with the issues at some point. But today, I decided, placing on my hat, downing my breakfast, and heading outside for a morning stroll, I was just going to enjoy myself. The danger had past and it was time to celebrate. I just wandered around outside, sitting by the lake, walking through the trees or sitting on the grass, listening to the sounds of the birds and appreciating the beauty of nature all around me. It was good to have harmony back in Equestria and he wouldn't have it any other way.

A lot of truths had come to light in the wake of my dream. The fact that Luna had been pulling the strings from behind the scenes so that I would discover I was the seventh Element of Harmony, I at first found to be quite hurt from how dishonest it had been. When I asked her why exactly she didn’t just tell me what my true fate was in the first place, she replied in saying that neither Twilight nor her friends knew they were the Elements and they had to figure it out, asking why should I be any different.

“Besides,” she followed up with, “would thou have believed me if I had told thee?”

I had to concede that, despite my personal views, I most likely wouldn't have and accepted that her actions were necessary.

In a way though, it also made me appreciate all that she went through to help me discover my destiny and I was thankful for that, if nothing else.

Then, of course, there was Luna’s offer. I was still recovering from the giddy feeling that I had when Luna first announced that she was going to be my teacher. I had accepted after only a moment's thought and was in no way regretting my decision. One thing that had come out of this was that I now felt true pride for my unique magic and along with that, the desire to expand on it and to learn more about what I might be able to do with it. If it was to be my special talent from now on, then I would train and practice with it as much as I could.

Additionally, there was the bonus that I and Twilight were now both apprenticed to a princess. I didn’t know why, but that gave me a newfound boost of confidence that might finally allow me to tell her how I felt… perhaps…

I was pulled out of my thoughts as I heard a familiar and saw three ponies behind me.

“Hey, bud!” Shield said, no doubt smiling at me and holding up his foreleg for a high hoof. “Ready to head to Canterlot?”

“Sure.” I said, missing Shield’s hoof two times before finally getting it, giving him an embarrassed chuckle.

“Still can’t see, Dusk?” Leon asked me with concern.

“Yeah, but I’ll be fine.” I said reassuringly. “Come on, let’s get going.”

“Alright then.” Dog said to me. “And we’ll make sure you don’t bump into anything.”

“Thanks, guys.” I said as we all then walked off together, the guys making sure I didn’t crash into anything.

We arrived at the train station on time with everypony else not too far behind. As well as the girls, Spike, the Crusaders, Strongheart, Gold Star, Forest Hearth, and Zecora were also accompanying us to the ceremony before the actual party. They too had played their part in bringing down Discord and they were going to be acknowledged for it along with everypony else who had fought against the Lord of Chaos. Zecora was quite looking forward to seeing the royal city, as was Strongheart, and we all promised to give them a small tour of the place once the celebrations had concluded. It was when Gold Star came over to me.

“Hey, Dusk.” Gold Star said to me. “Glad to see you in such a good mood today. Had us all worried after you left the party so earlier. Twilight was more worried about you than the rest of us.”

“Well, I appreciate your concerns, everypony,” I said to them, “but I assure you that I’m fine. There’s nothing to worry about.” It wasn’t entirely dishonest, especially with what happened last night. “In fact, the reason I am in such a good mood today is because I got some news.”

“What is it, Dusk?” Dog asked me.

“I’ll explain on the train. Come on.” I said as we all boarded the train.

As the train carried us to Canterlot, I proceeded to tell them all that I had learned in the dream world with Luna. Though there were a few bits and pieces I left out like the Tree of Life and the Tree of Harmony for those were topics I decided to discuss at a different time.

“Ha-ha! See?” Spike said, once I had finished. “I told you you'd solve that whole Fore Sight mystery!”

“So your ancestor knew you would be an Element of Harmony.” Leon put in, impressed. “Is there anypony in your family that doesn’t know what can help us now?”

“That’s a tough question there.” I said. “Though there’s actually more. After she told me everything I needed to know about the Element of Unity, Luna actually gave me an offer.”

“What kind of offer?” Shield asked me, curious.

“Well…” Thinking about it, I then decided to simply tell them, “in light of my true talent being revealed and seeing how our magic is similar, she decided to teach me in how to use it.”

“Wait, are you sayin’…” Dog started before I answered him with a proud smile.

“Yes. As of now, I’m officially a student of Princess Luna.” This surprised everypony.

“So you’re the student of the co-ruler of Equestria now?” Leon asked in disbelief.

“That’s correct.” I told him.

“Dude…” Shield said with a look of shock. “That… is…” Within that moment, Shield then gained a smile as he shouted “Awesome!” Just when he said that, the three then rounded on me, congratulating I’m my accomplishment, Shield giving me a noogie.

“Believe me, I’m quite surprised about it myself.” I admitted as the three were done congratulating me. “Then again, the past few days have been full of surprises, so one would think I’d be getting used to them by now.”

“Surprise!” Pinkie suddenly jumped up behind me, making me jump. “Yeah, I think you’re right. Still, it’s always nice to be surprised, don’t ya think?”

“Depends on the surprise.” I said once I’d stopped blushing and everypony stopped laughing. “You could at least warn me when you’re about to do that.”

“Silly Psychic Pony. If I did, it wouldn't be a surprise."

“I… oh, never mind.” I said, laughing good-naturedly. “I don’t think any you girls and you guys will ever stop being able to surprise me.”

“We do our best, sugar.” Applejack remarked and glancing at Pinkie. “Some of us more than others.”

“We could say the same for you, darling.” Rarity noted. “Every day, it seems you’re discovering something new about yourself. Overcoming your stage fright one moment and becoming the seventh Element the next.”

“Yeah, must feel pretty good to know you’re as awesome as we are now.” Rainbow said with a nudge.

“Yes, well…” I mumbled. “I’m just one tile in the mosaic that is Harmony.”

“Quite profound.” Strongheart remarked lightly. “I suppose that’s one thing about you that hasn’t changed.”

“And…that’s not a bad thing, is it?” I asked her unsurely.

“Not at all.”

I exchanged a warm smile with the calf. “Thank you.”

Rainbow made a small groan of frustration. “Man, you really haven’t changed where your ego is concerned, have you?”

“Sometimes a lil’ humility is refreshin’, Rainbow. ʹSpecially after hangin’ round you and Shield all day.” Dog remarked.

“Yeah, but I’m awesome anyway.” She gave her cocky smile. “Oh, well. I guess that it’s just good Dusky here knows his place, which is just close second to awesomeness to me. Maybe third.”

Though I admired Rainbow’s confident personality as opposed to my contrasting one, her boasting sometimes was a little too much for me.

“Um, hate to tell ya, Dash,” Shield spoke up, “but, compared to Dusk, you and me are a close second to awesomeness to him.”

We all shared a laugh at Rainbow’s shocked expression before she growled in annoyance. Luckily, somepony else said what they were all thinking and prevented any aggression.

“Hm… a student to Princess Luna, Seventh Element of Harmony, the great hero El Dragon, and solver of one of the greatest historical mysteries next to a pony who, despite showing her skills twice to the Wonderbolts, still isn’t a member of them.” Strongheart raised her eyebrows. “Yes, I can certainly see from that how he's not as good as you.”

“Hey, who asked you?” Rainbow demanded, her cheeks flushed.

“No one.” Strongheart replied calmly. “Sometimes, asking isn’t a necessity, especially when it comes to speaking latent truths, Rainbow Crash.”

“Ooh, that’s a burn!” Pinkie grinned at the red-in-the-face Pegasus, who offered no response to that. “You just got burned, Dashie! Burned!”

Fortunately, Rainbow didn’t press further on her argument, though it looked like she wanted to. She’d probably challenge the buffalo to a race later or something to make up for this small loss.

“Anyway, the point is that mosaic thingy you’re a part of now… is awesome!” Rainbow frowned after this. “What is a mosaic anyway? Some kind of weird food?”

“It’s a form of art.” Rarity said exasperatedly. “I know you’re not exactly a cultured pony, but really, Rainbow?”

“You can’t eat a mosaic, Dashie. And trust me, I’ve tried.” Pinkie put in.

“Yeah… wait, what?”

“All strange eating habits aside, it really is incredible!” Twilight seemed most excited about one particular piece of news. “I can’t believe that Princess Luna has actually offered to teach you! Do you know how unique an opportunity this is?”

“I wasn’t expecting it either, but that was what she said she wanted to do.” I said with a rarely seen pride. “We’re going to be starting lessons once everything’s fully settled down. She said she’ll contact me when she wants to begin.”

Twilight let out a barely concealed noise of excitement. “Ooh, that’s so great! I mean, now not only are you and I both students to royalty, but just imagine what she’ll be able to teach you! Your magic’s the same as hers and, considering the things she can do with that magic alone, that should be quite informative. She can alter her appearance, squeeze into tight spaces in her smoke form, and even fly! That might be due to her natural alicorn abilities though, but I’m sure you could still learn it. Imagine if you could learn how to fly! Even if we do have levitation spells, self-sustained flight is difficult even for a unicorn.”

“Oh… really?” I knew Twilight was going into quick-fire fact mode, which I didn’t mind and didn’t have the heart to stop her. If anything, I actually liked it.

“Oh, yes. And, beyond that, there’s no limit to what she could possibly teach you. I don’t know what your magic is compared to mine, but you could end up picking up the same skills that I did. You have the disadvantage of not being taught at a young age, but you still attended the school and you’ve had it your whole life, so it might not be too difficult. If you ever need help, I’d be more than happy to give it. Then, of course, there would be powers of the night that she might teach you too. Things like dark magic, shadow spells, lunar blasts, mostly offensive and defensive spells, but still very useful. Maybe we could compare notes and trade techniques! I want to know everything she’ll…”

“Okay, okay, Twilight. Take it down a notch.” Dog cut in. “I think the boy’s got himself enough to think about without ya recitin’ every possible piece of mumbo jumbo ya can.”

“Oh, right.” She lapsed into a bashful silence. “Sorry, Dusk. Guess I just lost my head there.”

“It’s fine, Ms. Sparkle. I understand.” I assured. “If anything, you’ve made me even more anticipated for my upcoming education.”

“Well, I’m glad I was able to help there.” she said, sounding relieved, perhaps a little anxious. “You know how I am when it comes to studying.”

“I know and, just for the record, I’d be more than happy to exchange notes with you.” I added with a smile. “I think it would be… beneficial for us both.”

“Really?” She blushed a little, but returned my smile. “Well… I think it would be too. I’m… looking forward to it.”

I suddenly blinked when I realized something that made my own cheeks turn beet red. Did I just… flirt with Twilight? And did she just… return it? I had no idea. I’d never flirted before in my life and didn’t know if Twilight had received it negatively or not. She was still smiling, so it looked like she didn’t mind, but she might just be pretending so as not to embarrass me.

Still, I did like that smile she was giving me. That and the look in her eyes made my heart flutter all the more.

“Geez! What a couple of eggheads you two are.” Rainbow remarked, shattering the moment.

“Rainbow!” Dog and Applejack glared in unison.

“What? What did I do? I’m just saying.”

“Perhaps you should have remained silent instead, for some things are better left unsaid.” Zecora remarked, speaking for the first time since the journey began.

“What? What did I say? You were all thinking it.” she protested.

“Yeah, but none of us were gonna say it.” Shield countered.

“Yeah, I mean, Dusk just got taken under Luna’s wing.” Leon added. “Can’t really say anything bad to him now with that.”

“I think it’s great too.” Fluttershy added, wanting to add something to the discussion. “I mean, you being taught by Luna. It seems like it’ll be… fun, I guess.”

“I think the boat’s sailed on that discussion.” I mumbled blandly, feeling some annoyance towards the insensitive Pegasus.

“Oh, um…okay.” Fluttershy lapsed back into an embarrassed silence.

My brotherly feelings resurfaced for her at the sight of her retreating behind her mane and I smiled in her direction. “But thank you for saying so anyway. It was very kind of you, as always.”

“You’re welcome.” She peeked out behind it and gave me a shy smirk. I would have hugged her were it not for the look that Twilight was giving me I could see out of the corner of my eye.

“You’re lucky.” Apple Bloom said sadly. “Not only do ya get your cutie mark, but then ya get a completely new one. We haven’t even got our first ones.”

“You think we can change ours if we want?” Sweetie asked. “Like, maybe you could have a talent in painting one week and then dancing the next one.”

“Yeah, but you can’t paint or dance, so you wouldn’t be doing either.” Scootaloo remarked.

“I know, but still, it would be nice.” She cast her eyes to her bare flank. “I’d be happy with any cutie mark though.”

“Be patient, Sweetie. Your time will come.” her elder sister assured. “You just have to keep at it.”

“I know, I know. But there’s times it seems like we’ll never get them.” she despaired.

“Yeah, it feels like it’s gonna be forever before we ever discover our special talents.” Scootaloo put in.

“That’s if we ever find them.” Apple Bloom sighed.

Of course, everypony understood what they must be feeling. Though they were a special little group, they still must feel like outcasts because of what they had… or in this case, what they didn’t. I knew, because that was how I’d felt about myself too, what I felt like a long time. And I knew what I needed to do.

Before anypony could say anything to the disheartened fillies, I was the one who spoke up.

“Take heart, girls.” I said to them. “The other fillies and foals may have their cutie marks before you all have, but let me ask you: how many of them have bravely faced up to a whole army of monsters alongside the Element Gang?”

Scootaloo’s face lit up at that. “None of them.”

“How many of them are on their way to Canterlot right as a reward for what they’ve done?”

“Nopony I know.” Apple Bloom agreed.

“And how many of them are going to receive commendation from the Princesses themselves for their bravery and valor?”

“I don’t know what commendation means, but you’re right!” Sweetie perked up. “We might not have our cutie marks yet, but we did pretty well without them.”

“Yeah, Diamond Tiara sure can’t say that she did what we did!” Scootaloo added. “We got to save all of Equestria! We’re awesome!”

“Even without our cutie marks too!” Sweetie gave me a bright smile. “Thanks for that, Dusk.”

“No problem, my little cousin.” I moved to pat her on the head, but my blurry eyes misjudged the distance and I had to try three times before I got it right.

“Eyes still giving you trouble?” Gold Star asked me.

“Unfortunately, yes.” I squinted at my claw, trying to make it clear up. “I would have thought it would have gotten better by now.”

“Let me see.” Zecora approached me, holding open one of my eyelids and waving her own hoof across it, gazing intently with her pale blue orbs. “I would wait a little longer until it passes. But, in case it doesn’t, I would suggest glasses.”

“Glasses? But… I’ve never needed glasses.”

“But you may now.” Twilight pointed out. “Gazing directly at a bright light source, your self-generated color sphere from before in this case, may have damaged your retinas and created moderate vision impairment.”

I understood what she said there, though Pinkie and Rainbow were looking quizzical, along with a few others. It would be good for I had a feeling my vision will only get as close as being near-sighted like an Axel, but… I was a little apprehensive at the idea. I already knew that I basically answered to most of the signs of being a typical geek and having glasses would only complete the image. I didn’t like the idea of being laughed at if I did end up having to wear glasses. But I also didn’t like being partially blind.

In the end, I conceded with a small smile. “I suppose… it wouldn’t be so bad.”

“I think he’d look kinda geeky with them.” I heard Rainbow snigger.

“He’s short-sighted, not deaf, Rainbow Dash.” Hearth Forest answered sharply.

“What? Why is everypony getting on my case today?”

As we all burst out laughing from Rainbow’s skulking, I was reminded of how much better my life had become since discovering friendship’s magic. Sure, there were some downsides to it, but nothing in life was perfect. It was strange to think that, a few years ago, I was just Dusk Noir, a pony who was useless, boring, and not worth the time of anypony while living a double life as the superhero El Dragon. Now though, from this past year, I had ponies and even non-ponies I could call his friends, memories that lit up my life, and, of course… being an Element of Harmony.

Though that did mean a lot of new responsibilities and expectations than usual, plus the possibility of a little more attention than I was used to, that last one made me smile all the more. Twilight caught my smile and it was like she knew what I was thinking and returned it with one of her own. Her reward was that she managed to make me blush again and divert my eyes to the floor.

We arrived in Canterlot with about fifteen minutes before the official ceremony. The streets were mostly deserted, as everypony was no doubt up at the castle in the tower where the Elements were kept, but there was the occasional group of ponies that cheered for them while they made their way through the streets with guards escorting them. Sometimes, one would attempt to get closer but end up getting pushed away by the guards.

Most of them waved back, or else only acknowledged them with a smile or shy glance, Zecora performing the former and Strongheart the latter. I flushed from the attention, as did Fluttershy, who promptly hid behind her mane as well as behind Leon. I, however, decided that I might as well try and look appreciative of the attention and so did my best to smile back. That seems to be enough as some mares blushed and started talking excitedly to their friends.

This didn’t seem to have escaped Twilight’s notice, as she would glare at these little groups or give them a hostile look. She also seemed to move closer to me, her side practically brushing against my own. It took me a while to figure out as to why she was acting like this towards a little friendly attention and it was enough to make me grin like a fool. I couldn't be completely sure, but it had to be a good sign. Rarity seemed to notice too, as she would occasionally glance back and wink at me.

I was actually surprised at how much I was enjoying this. I would have preferred just a thank you and some acknowledgment for my actions, but I usually modestly brushed away any compliments given to me. I didn't feel comfortable accepting them when I knew that other factors apart from myself had played a part in my success. This situation was no different, but I was still getting most of the attention from what I’d done and they actually liked me. It made me feel like…

Well, a real hero, just like my father. And, I’ll be honest, I rather liked it and this added to my happiness. I really felt like I had honored my ancestors, finally became a true symbol of peace and justice, and a real leader of my own Element Gang. I actually felt… like the hero that everyone in Equestria needed. For once, I was going to let myself take pride in what I had done and I liked it.

Of course, modesty was still my most endearing trait and I was sure to remind myself of that, only bowing my head to the groups and little else. I still knew that other things played a part in my success and that I couldn’t take all of the credit, being sure that I wanted to convey that across. That was just the way I was and not even this was going to change that.

I was still red in the face by the time we arrived at the grand hall that would lead to Canterlot tower. The guards assumed positions close to the door as it shut, while we climbed the stairs to the doors that would lead us into the tower itself. The butterflies returned as we stood before the tall purple doors. Behind us, I could hear the crowds of ponies talking excitedly with one another for their arrival, which was due to be any minute now.

Yes, I still wasn’t comfortable facing a crowd. That much I could be sure of.

“Well… this is it.” I remarked quietly.

“It certainly is.” Twilight seemed to sense my apprehension and put a hoof on my shoulder. “Don’t worry, we’re all going in this together.”

“R-really?” I asked, a bit of my old self returning.

“Really. We’ll all be right here with you.”

That settled my stomach a bit. “Thank you…”

I almost jumped when the fanfare from behind the door started to play, signaling their cue to enter the tower. Fluttershy too was shocked at the sound but, surprisingly, she managed to collect herself and stand as bravely as she could. I had to admire her for that, just as much as Leon obviously did, and we exchanged nervous smiles as the doors creaked open.

I felt my breath catch in my throat a bit when I saw the sheer multitude of ponies who had turned out for the ceremony. It certainly did look like everypony in Canterlot, if not Equestria, had come to see the presentation of our victory. All eyes turned on us when the doors opened and I felt like cringing beneath the combined stares of thousands of ponies. I fought back the urge and kept my composure, staying close to Twilight and letting her walk ahead of me.

We walked up the aisle along the soft red carpet, my eyes only occasionally straying to the audience that observed our procession and most of the timekeeping us fixed on my destination. The two princesses were waiting for us at the very end of the room, our gazes the warmest of all. I was surprised that Dragonis and his team came here for the occasion. Celestia beamed radiantly at us, the beauty of the sun shining in her eyes. Luna stood by her side, shorter yet still having presence, looking equally as proud. The smile she gave me made me feel a little braver and I walked with my neck straight when we reached them.

We stood in a moment of silence, allowing the princesses to appraise us, along with the crowd. I smirked when Applejack winked at Celestia and this only grew when Strongheart raised her neck to its highest out of respect for Luna, who returned the gesture to her very pleasant surprise. The Crusaders were trying their best to contain their excitement and nerves, Spike stood proudly, Gold Star gave off his signature grin, and Zecora and Hearth remained silent and humble the whole time.

Finally, Celestia spoke, her voice echoing around the room. “Fillies and gentlecolts, we are gathered here today to once again honor the heroism of these six friends who stood up to the villain Discord and saved Equestria from eternal chaos.”

She allowed the crowd to cheer in celebration at her words. Applejack and Dog’s grinned in appreciation, Rainbow and Shield raised both their hooves in triumph, Fluttershy hid behind her mane again with Leon just standing proudly, Pinkie beamed her brightest smile, Rarity waved daintily, and Twilight smiled sheepishly, her gaze diverting to me for a moment.

“Peace!” Luna’s Royal Voice brought silence once more, allowing her to step to the forefront. “But let thy appreciation not go unchecked for their allies and friends who, even though they were not Elements, also took up arms against the twisted spirit of chaos and his dark forces! Let their contributions not be forgotten!”

Now the Crusaders cheered when the applause began again, jumping up and down with joy. Zecora made note of the praise with closed eyes and a peaceful expression, Gold Star waved at the crowd, Spike waved and blew kisses, Hearth stood proud, whilst Strongheart bowed humbly. Celestia raised her hoof once again for silence and I knew what was coming when her gaze turned to me.

“For many years, we have believed that there were only six Elements of Harmony. But now, here today, it is revealed that there is and always have been seven in the form of this young stallion.” I felt all eyes on me and I couldn’t help but turn my eyes to the floor. “We can now feel reassured that Laughter, Loyalty, Honesty, Kindness, Generosity, and Magic are all that much stronger with Unity to guide them.”

Luna took up the speech. “It was thanks to his and his team of friends’ best efforts that these friends were able to stand against the storm of chaos that threatened to overwhelm us all, as well as restore us to our former selves! His presence is a reminder to us all that whether stallion or mare, with or without cutie marks, pony, dragon, buffalo, or zebra, we are all united under the light of friendship!”

Now it was my turn to acknowledge the crowd when it all started up again for me and my team. I looked to see my sister Rosemary (the eldest child of the Noir family) and my mother in the front row. It would be like them to turn up for something like this. Though I was surprised to see my other sister Quickshadow (the middle child) there with a guard at her side (no surprise there) cheering gleefully. Even though I wasn’t much doing it to her, I tipped my hat to them and bowing my head, almost like a knight in the old days.

I turned back to the princesses when the applause at stopped, though my stomach certainly hadn’t settled and my face was still bright red. The warm looks of all my friends put me to rest when the princesses’ horns glowed. Celestia pulled down one curtain that was hung up on the wall, whilst Luna did the other, revealing new stained glass windows that displayed historical moments in Equestrian history.

On Celestia’s, though my vision was blurred, I could partially make it out, it depicted Discord being consumed by a purple light beaming out of eleven ponies. Pride welled up when I made out my dark blue blur at the center of the group. Even Shield and the guys had as much pride as I did when they saw the three of them as part of the circle around me. The other depicted the Crusaders, Spike, Strongheart, Gold Star, Hearth Forest, and Zecora battling against dark shapes I could only assume were Paraserpents. Now we’re all part of the pages of history. I thought as the crowd cheered and stomped their hooves once more.

“Now, assuming my sister’s information is correct,” Celestia added, “then I think a slight change is in order.”

Her horn glowed once more and there was a flash of light on the window I knew depicted the girls defeating Nightmare Moon. Only now, I could make out a dark blue shape among them, my light shining as bright as the rest of them.

Overwhelmed by the praise and thanks I was receiving, I just beamed out at the crowd with my friends by my side, content by the good that I had done… even though the bad remained. But the surprises were not done yet, especially when…

“Hey, that’s Dusk Noir in those windows, right?” called a stallion in the crowd. “Why does he have that weird red tail?”

“Hey, he’s right!”

This caused quite the commotion, all but my family were talking incisively with great amounts of surprise and confusion. I was confused as well until I decided to take a closer look at those windows. Managing to get my vision focused enough, I was surprised when I saw that the window images of me did not have my normal pony tail, but actually my Fire Dragon tail.

“Everypony, allow me to explain.” Dragonis spoke up, silencing the commotion while smiling proudly. “As you all know, there have been rumors about the Element Gang. Most recently of there being reports of them being spotted over in Ponyville. I confirm those rumors and tell you that the Element Squad has indeed now found its remaining two members within the very town.” This caused another commotion as most of the ponies in the crowd didn’t expect two elementals to be in the town. “Though the reason for the Element Squad going there was not to find them as fate had decided it for them. For what set the events of their meeting in motion was an offer given by Princess Celestia herself.” The crowd was now confused as they didn’t know what he meant. “She had sent them there to not be resided there, but in the hopes that they would experience the very magic of friendship, much like the six Wielders who used that light to defeat Nightmare Moon and free Princess Luna from the madness that consumed her. And, as such, the very six protectors of Equestria also took part in the defeat of Discord. With that brought to light, I now see that a new change is in order. Although this might possibly be the greatest change in our history since the founding of Equestria, I see that it is necessary for the good of all of Equestria.”

It was there that Dragonis had told everypony the biggest secret in history. “Now I have heard and come to see ponies believing that the Element Gang are immortal, living for centuries and millennia as they protect this land. I’m afraid that theory is wrong and the Element Gang are not immortal, but really ones who have actually descended from families of great heroes. For the last 800,000 years, the sacred duty of the Element Gang had been passed down from one generation to the next from parent to child, a secret that they had kept for all this time as the heroes worked from the shadows to ensure the safety of Equestria and all who live in it.” The crowd was once again surprised. “The reason I am telling you this is because I, along with the royal sisters, have decided that this should be a secret no longer. Seeing everything they had done up to this point, we now know that we would not be here today if it weren’t for the courage, determination, self-sacrifice, selflessness, and strength of the six ponies who continue the sacred duty of their ancestors and carry on the legacy. Their destiny along with the destiny of the Wielders intertwined as they now continue their journey together.”

What he said next surprised even me and the friends that surrounded me. “As such, it is with great honor that I introduce to you the six great heroes who will now work with the Wielders in keeping Equestria safe.” He then looked down at me and my friends as he continued to speak. “The very ponies who now stand before us in these great halls: Leon Aquilous, the kind and quicken master over the power of water Posidacus; Dog Fries, the honest, ice elemental master of stealth Icedra; Pinkimina Diane Pie, Wielder of the Element of Laughter and the joyous and unpredictable lightning elemental ShockBlade; Raritina Turbor, Wielder of the Element of Generosity and the graceful and generous air elemental Torna; Shield Steedor, the loyal earth elemental brawn Apolloid; and finally—most importantly—the great leader of the six, elemental of fire, and now Wielder of the Element of Unity, Dusk Noir!” With a nod from Dragonis, I knew what he wanted me to do next.

Though hesitant, looking to see both Celestia and Luna giving me the same smiles, I then went ahead, turned around to face the crowd, and revealed my tail’s true form, causing the crowd to gasp. With my fellow elementals joining me towards everypony, they all looked at me, silently asking me if they should reveal themselves too. With a reassuring smile and a nod of approval, I then watched as the five then demonstrated their powers with Pinkie Pie flying around the room as a volt of lightning before coming back to us, Rarity sending a gentle gust a wind at the crowd, Dog sending a blast of ice above the crowd with said blast exploding into flakes of snow that gentle fell upon the crowd, and Shield and Leon each holding an orb of their respective elements for a moment before putting them away. There was a moment of silence as everypony looked at us in shock before, slowly, they all began to smile and cheer. Seeing this, my fellow elementals all then began to smile as they gladly accept the cheer with pride. Even I couldn’t help but smile with pride at this. Though I wasn’t sure, I thought I heard my mother proudly say “That’s my boy.” With all this and the cheering dying down, I then saw that it was time to make this moment official.

“Okay, everypony, huddle up.” I said to my friends before we formed a circle. It was then that I noticed Twilight, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Applejack standing to the side, smiling proudly. “Girls, what are you doing over there? Come on! This is a big moment. You’re part of the team now.” With that, the six of us then made some room for the four to join in with Rainbow standing beside Shield, Applejack with Dog, Fluttershy coming over to Leon, and Twilight joining by my side. We smiled at each other for a moment before we went on to do what I’ve always wanted to do. “Okay, everypony, hooves in the middle.”

With that, everypony joined me as we raised one forelimb up towards the middle, getting ready to do a teamwork hooves in the middle break. The ten of us then spoke out in unison.

“Heroes forever!” From there, we then did the break, lifting our forelimbs to the air. “Element Gang all together!”

With another cheer from the crowd, I smiled proudly as of now the moment have been commemorated: the day of which my friends and I became… the Element Gang!

Unknown to everyone, a pair of stallions (one being a unicorn and the other, a pegasus) were looking over the heroes, not cheering with the rest of the crowd and looking more forlorn at what was happening before them.

“Well, didn’t see that coming.” The unicorn said.

“Yeah, first we find out that the Element Gang got together,” The pegasus added. “Then we find out two of their members are wielders of those gems, and now this.”

“Yeah, it is. Things don’t look good for us.”

“Should we report this?”

“Of course, you idiot. Everypony needs to know what we have discovered. He must know of this latest development.” With this, the two then waited for the ceremony to be over and then left the castle to accomplish their task.

The party for after the ceremony took place in the same ballroom that the Gala had. It was decorated more in the style of a party than a formal ball, with streamers and balloons added to the grand statues of alicorns and marble pillars that supported the high ceiling. I guessed Pinkie probably had a hoof in that. The band that played was the same from the Gala, though now it featured the presence of a famous white-furred DJ unicorn mare on the sound desk and a tall blue Pegasus playing what looked like a fiddle hooked up to an amplifier. I couldn’t quite place him, but he was definitely familiar… perhaps a famous musician?

There was now a mix of ponies not just from the elite of Canterlot, but also members of Ponyville and Appleloosa, the buffalo tribe once again included among their number. Their presence seemed to intimidate some of the elite, who looked uncomfortable with their sheer size and lack of formal etiquette. I felt it was something of a wake-up call for us, a reminder that there was more outside our own meanderings and money. The buffalo too seemed quite in awe of the size and splendor of Canterlot, as well as being in the presence of the Princesses, particularly Luna whom they revered most. They were also in awe of Dragonis. A good experience for both parties.

I happily moved about the crowds, now changed even more than before from the unknown drifter in the past year. Like in the year before, others took notice of me and what I had to say, though I had to wonder if it was for whom I was or what I was. Either way, I decided not to let it bother me. I met Mirror and Prim from when I was at the Gala, along with Jock and Muscles, who were more receptive of me this time around and less judgmental about my intelligence and interests. I also saw them cast nervous glances to Princess Luna at times, with the exception of Mirror, who was just happy to see me again. At one point, I met up with my cousin families here in Canterlot: the Crimson Family and the Forest Family, both of which had greeted me both kindly and respectfully. The heads of the families, Blaze Crimson and Noel Forest, actually congratulated me on becoming the seventh Element and how proud they were of me for all that I accomplished. When catching sight of another cousin of mine, I took the chance and brought Rarity to meet them, doing the introductions before leaving them to chat amongst themselves.

To my great surprise, I was also approached by historians whose names I’d only ever seen on books I’d read. Some worthy names included Professor Archaeological Dig and Dr. Fossil Finder, unknown to those who weren’t interested in their work, but I knew enough that I was honored to even meet them. They mostly asked questions about what it was like to discover that I was the Seventh Element and how I was now central to the debates held concerning the subject of Fore Sight. I answered as best I could, though I was stammering for the most part.

Some other random things stuck out in my mind too. I saw Pinkie apologizing to a green-furred unicorn, something about destroying her store, while she seemed completely bewildered. The cross-eyed Pegasus who had almost injured me with falling objects came up and apologized for that, offering a muffin as recompense. Twilight was talking to a grey unicorn stallion about constellations and the stars, me holding back a twinge of jealousy. I was comforted by the fact we kept a respectable distance.

The oddest thing was when I accidentally bumped into a tanned-brown earth pony with a darker-colored mane and dressed in a blue tux with a white undershirt and a brown tie. He also wore a trench coat that covered his flank. Before I could even say I was sorry…

“Excuse me, but have you seen any pegasus statues moving around unnoticed?” the stallion asked with a completely straight face. I blinked and before responding.

“No… I haven’t.” I said unsurely, rather confused about the question.

“That’s a shame. I suppose they’re not at full power yet, so they might not be a threat yet…” He trailed off and suddenly grinned at me like a mad pony. “Anyway, sorry for wasting your time. Better get back to it.”

“Right… no trouble at all.” I cleared my throat. “I’ll keep an eye out anyway. What are they? Lost ornaments?”

“Something a little worse than that.” He told me. “More like malevolent time-eating beings from the dawn of time that want to establish dominance over the entire universe. But it's nothing you need to worry about.” I raised a brow for what he just said sounded like a Weeping Angel which didn’t make sense because they didn’t exist in Equestria.

“Okay… are you feeling well, sir?” I asked unsurely.

“Perfectly fine. Right, got to dash, things to do. Have fun.” With a quick pace, he set off again.

“Wait! Aren’t you staying for the party?” I asked, a little intrigued by his behavior.

“Kind of you to ask, but no. far too busy.” He flashed his grin again. “Besides, I've already been three times. Allons-y!”

He sprinted off before I could say anything else. What in the world was that pony talking about? All I really knew that the strange conversation I had with him convinced him that he probably needed some fresh air. Once again calling on my previous talent of moving about unnoticed, I sidled out of the clamor and noise of the hall and out into the gardens, bathed in the glow of the setting sun, just below the horizon.

Though I had been partially blinded, I recalled the path that I wanted to take, for I knew exactly where to go first. Soon enough, I was surrounded by the statues of the sculpture garden, no moving pegasi statues thankfully, and no sign of that stallion either. What I definitely found was back in its rightful place and state. This time though, Discord wasn’t in a singing pose, but he was holding his hands up in fright, an expression of utter horror on his face, which I could make out if he squinted.

When I’d first seen this statue and learned of what it truly was, I at first felt pity for the lord of chaos. Even if he had been evil, he had just been doing what was in his nature and had become imprisoned for it. I felt that he didn't really deserve such a fate. Now though, having experienced and suffered at my expense, I was left under no doubt that he deserved to be stuck in stone and remain that way until he crumbled into dust.

I blinked in surprise again. That thought was a little unlike me, but I still felt that way and I wasn’t going to change my opinion. I stayed for a few minutes, savoring this part of my victory before rounding away from the former ruler of Equestria and heading back out, thinking of a place I would go that would put me in a better mood and give me more pleasant thoughts to reflect upon. Soon enough, I knew just the place.

I retraced my steps from when I first took them. First, out of the hall, on the path to the gardens, off the path when I reached a certain clearing in the trees and stopping in that specific spot in the clearing. It was just out of the way to be concealed, but standing out enough that I knew how to find it, as I had done a year ago, though not with a clear head.

I stopped in the middle, closing my eyes and feeling the breeze on my face, listening to the rustling of the leaves. My hooves and claws felt the soft grass beneath them, as I slowly took a seat on it, with my dragon tail laying on the ground and gazing up at the sky which was just beginning to darken, the first lights of the stars twinkling up in the sky and the light of the moon shining down. It had been dark on that night too, when I had run to this spot a year ago, on the day my life had changed forever…

I couldn’t help but laugh a little, idly tracing a few color patterns across the sky as I had done on that night. How different I had been back then. A time when my opinion was about as much worth as a single grain of sand on a beach, when my presence counted for little more than just another space to be filled. When the only pony I thought I would ever have a friend in was another social recluse like myself and even then, the hope was slim. I’d tried to defy my destiny and find my team. I’d even kept my magic hidden for fear of retribution from my peers, not that any existed. Only good for studying and remembering past events, not much else.

Now though… I had become leader of the Element Gang, helped to save all of Equestria, had become a part of the very pages of history that I strived to study, my special talent had now become my true attribute and not something I kept hidden, I had a whole circle of wonderful friends that I wouldn’t give up for anything in the world. And that one social recluse that I had the only hope of being friends with… the hope had for her had gone beyond friendship. Though I still had my doubts, I still believed in the impossible. After all, look where I was now.

Subtly, I became aware that I was no longer alone in the clearing. Somepony was watching me and I had a good idea as to whom.

“Hello, Miss Sparkle.” I said without turning around. “You don’t have to stay in the shadows you know. That’s my job.”

I heard the sound of hooves, followed by her sweet voice. “I know, but I didn’t want to disturb you.”

“Thank you, but you could never disturb me.” I turned around to behold her, her beauty still stunning despite my lack of vision.

“Thanks…” She gazed at me thoughtfully for a moment. “What are you doing out here anyway?”

I shrugged. “Just reminiscing a bit…old memories of a bleaker time. How did you know where to find me?”

“Princess Celestia told me you might be here and told me how to find it.” she informed. “Looks like she was right.”

“Apparently so…” I felt the surprise register. So, she still remembered too… “What’s going on back in there?”

“Well, the party’s still going, everypony’s really enjoying themselves.” she reported in her studious way. “Given all that’s happened, I think this is just what we need.”

“I agree. How is everypony?”

“Well, let’s see… the Crusaders are trying to get marks in serving tables, I don’t really need to tell you how that’s going.” We both chuckled at the idea. “Pinkie is the life and soul of the party, as always, Rainbow Dash and Shield are talking with some Wonderbolts, Dog and Applejack are seeing some of her relatives, Fluttershy and Leon have gone off to a different part of the gardens, Rarity is mixing in with some upper-class ponies, Zecora is recommending her medical remedies to some doctors, Spike’s got his head buried in some ice cream, Gold Star is spending time with his family, so is Hearth Forest, and I think Strongheart’s still surprised to even be here.”

“I don’t blame her. This is a little more than she’s probably used to.” I said lightly. “What about you?”

“I’ve been going around, catching up with some students from the school, talking to some high-ranking academics, you know. I had a really fascinating conversation with this astrology student just before, he apparently has an observatory outside town. He was telling me about how Jupiter’s apparently rotated to an alignment that ascertains maximum visibility for viewing purposes through reflective lenses.”

“Huh.” I thought about what she’d said. “So this is the best time that you can see it through a telescope?”

“Exactly, doesn’t that sound great?” I smiled at how enthusiastic she sounded about it. “I’m going to see if I can find it before I can go to bed. I wanted to talk to you about it, but I couldn’t find you anywhere.”

“Then the princess told you where I would be?”

“And here we are.” she remarked. “I heard you went off on your own and I came to find you, see if you needed any company.” She took another step closer. “I didn’t want you to be on your own.”

“Well… that’s very thoughtful of you. You always… seem to think of me, don’t you?”

“Of course. You’re my best friend.” she said, with all warmth and sincerity.

I looked at Twilight and, despite my blurred vision, she looked more beautiful, sounded as wonderful, more than she ever had done when we first met. With my tail wagging and my nerves rose to a new point in that moment and I knew that now, after months of advice, preparation, and waiting, now was the time to tell her. I didn’t know if she truly felt the same way I did, but I had to try, or else how would I know unless I didn’t?

Twilight, perceptive as she was, seemed to pick up that something was on my mind. “Is there something you want to talk about, Dusk?”

“Actually… there is…” I murmured. “Something very important…”

“What is it?” she asked with concern.

“It’s, um… kind of hard to… put into words.”

“Well, take your time then, I’m not in a hurry.” She still watched me with concern, obviously thinking something was wrong.

Summing up all of my courage, I began. “Twilight… you and I… we’re good friends, aren’t we?”

“Of course we are!” She appeared confused by the question. “More than that, I’d say we’re the best of friends.”

“Right… well, I agree with you.” I paused and started again. “You and me, we share a lot of interests, a lot of things in common, and… I like to think we’re close, you know? I mean, ever since I first saw you, I’ve wanted to be your friend. Now that I am, I’ve realized that my feelings for you are… stronger than I first thought. That you mean a lot more to me than… just my friend. Wow, this is hard…”

I trailed off and looked at the ground, my mind as blurry as my eyesight, at a complete blank as to what to say. Had I come on too strong? Was I being too vague, too forward? I had no idea, I didn’t know how to talk to a mare like this. Especially not Twilight Sparkle, who held this kind of thing in a critical eye anyway.

She, however, wasn’t discouraged. “Dusk… what exactly are you trying to say?”

“Okay…” I sucked in more air and took up my words again. “What I’m saying is… and I know what your views on this are and how you feel about it but… well…” This was it. I looked right at her, straight into her violet eyes. “How would you feel… about us being… more than… than… friends?”

My last word trailed off in a whisper and I couldn’t hold her gaze anymore, staring right back at the ground again. Complete silence fell between us. All I could hear from Twilight was her breathing, I didn’t dare look up at her. I’d said it, my feelings were now completely open to her and her judgment. Would she reject me, say she didn’t feel that way for me? Of course, she would. What had I been thinking?

One of her hooves entered my field of vision. “Dusk…” Her soft voice was enough to make me raise my head. She was smiling, that was a good sign. “I understand how you feel and you’re right, about what I think of… well, romance. It is great, but, for me at least, I just see it as a waste of time and energy, something else that would distract me from my studies.”

“Oh… right…” Like my tail falling to the ground, my heart sunk like a stone at her words and already I could feel the tears well up in my eyes. All of it… it had been for nothing. She didn’t feel the same way that was what was going through my head.

“But…” Until her hoof gently touched my chin and she realized how close she was. “I also used to think the same way about friendship and… look what happened. For a long time, I’ve been trying to figure out just… what I should do, concerning it. And now… well…”

“Yes…?” I could hear the desperate hope in my voice.

“Well… for you, Dusk, I… I’m willing to… to give it a try.” Her hoof found my claw and I felt her warm touch and my skin against hers. “In answer to your question… I want us… to be more too.”

“You…you’re serious?” I just couldn’t contain the grin when she nodded, my tail wagging with joy. “Wow… I mean well… really?”

“Yes!” Now she was smiling too. “I mean, I’ll try… I don’t really know anything about relationships.”

“Neither do I.”

“I’ve barely considered what might happen if I might have a boyfriend.”

“I’ve never even dreamed of having a girlfriend.”

“So… neither of us know what we’re doing?”

“It seems that way. But… we’re going to give it a try?”

“Of course.” She drew even closer, both her hooves on my claws. “I’m willing to, if you are.”

“Oh, I am, believe me.” My tears now flowed down my cheeks at my success. I’d done it! Me and Twilight Sparkle… we were a couple!

We both knew what was coming next. Neither of us knew anything about relationships, were ignorant of most of the procedures, and hadn’t even considered the possibility of even being in a romantic attachment with a pony, but even we knew what we had to do next. I could see it in her eyes… the sparkle.

“Twilight?” I breathed.

“Yes, Dusk?” Her voice was equally quiet, her face inches away from mine.

“Would… would it be okay if I… I…?” I couldn’t even finish, for the very idea seemed extraordinary.

Twilight seemed to read my mind. “I… I’m fine with that… it’s just… I’ve never actually… you know…”

“Neither have I.” I leaned in closer. I could count every lash around her sparkling eyes. “This all… well it’s just…”

“I feel the same. I mean, I don’t… I’ve never read on anything… like this.”

“Same here.” She gave a nervous giggle. “I mean I haven’t… ever… well…”

“I know. Let’s call it a new learning experience… for both of us.”

“That sounds… good.”

Slowly, we closed the distance between us, time slowing down all around us. Just when I thought she was having second thoughts and was about to pull away, our lips finally met in our first, beautiful kiss.

I closed my eyes in ecstasy, enjoying the moment to my fullest. It was more wonderful than I could have ever imagined… Twilight too was just as surprised as I was, but she didn’t stop, wrapping her forelegs around my neck. Nervously, but also relaxing into it, I wrapped my own arms around her, holding her as tenderly and gently as I could. My tail then stopped wagging. Both of us were unsure still, but it soon just came to us and we just expressed all we felt for each other in that simple, yet powerful gesture.

Like she had said, we were both novices when it came to romance. I had only read from romantic elements in stories and seen a few films and Twilight had stayed away from them almost entirely. But in that instant, we knew this wasn’t something that couldn’t be read about in any book. This was something that only we could experience together…and what an experience it was.

Like when we had danced at the Gala, time became a blur, everything else around us faded away. It all didn’t matter in that moment, for it was just me and Twilight Sparkle, together on this night. Who knew how long we were like that. A minute, a day, a month, a year, what did it matter? She was all that mattered to me in that moment. Just her.

Unknown to the new couple, as they kissed, literal fireworks occurred. Lost in the bliss, they were unaware that Dusk’s tail spikes had transformed in fireworks that flew off into the sky, giving a spectacular show of explosions and colors in the sky.

Seeing what was going from below Princess Luna’s balcony, I was now glad she and Dragonis took me, Dog, Applejack, Pinkie, and Gold up here and gave us some binoculars to see the show down on the ground. Seeing the fireworks, both the ones in the sky and the ones our two students of royalty were having, we all couldn’t help but cheer out for them, congratulating them.

“Whoo-hoo! 9.95!” I shouted with Applejack giving a whistle.

Then Dog said “Way to go, Twilight!”

“Way to go, Dusk!” Gold yelled.

“Oh, they look so cute together.” Pinkie cooed. “Hey, what’s that?”

We all looked to see one firework hadn’t exploded and was flying towards the garden.

Using the binoculars, I looked to see it said “To Leon” on it.

“Boy, is Leon in for a surprise when he sees that firework.” I said as it got closer to the ground.

“How’ll we know when he does?” Applejack asked.

Then a while after the firework disappeared into the trees…

BOOM!

Me and Dog then looked and managed to find an explosion burn covered Leon lying on the ground with a worried Fluttershy comforting him.

“He did.” Dog said before we looked up to see one last firework explode into the shape of a heart.

After a long moment of kissing, we finally stopped after what seemed an age, breathing like we’d just run a marathon. I was still grinning, as was Twilight.

“Wow… that was… wow.” she breathed.

“I know… I’ve… never kissed anypony before…” I admitted.

“Neither have I?” A hopeful glint came to her eyes. “Did you… like it?”

“I did.” I replied. “What about me? Was I… okay?”

“Dusk, you were great.” Her lips brushed against mine again and she nuzzled her head into my neck. “I think… I’m going to enjoy learning about this.”

“Me too.” I was vaguely aware of the lights from the palace. “Do you… want to go back inside?”

“You know what? I think I’m just fine here.” She glanced up at me. “Besides, you and me still need to do a bit of stargazing together, remember?”

“I do and… I’m okay with that.” I smiled down at her and placed my arm around her, holding her close and feeling the heat from her body against mine.

Sure I had some things I needed to sort out and issues I had to face, new challenges looming overhead in the future, but right now, I knew they could wait. Because being here now, under the stars, with Twilight’s head rested on my shoulder as she pointed out constellations and planets, this was all that mattered, and this was where I wanted to be.

Let the future worry about itself. I thought happily. Right now, the present was what counted. And, with that at least, I was just fine.

Unknown to our heroes, the two stallions from before were in a house close to the walls surrounding Canterlot, the unicorn at a desk and writing a letter with a single lamp on while the pegasus stood at the window and keeping an eye out for anything.

“Hurry up!” the pegasus urge his horned companion, a bead of sweat on his brow. “The party’s almost over! Somepony’s gonna see us!”

“Don’t rush me!” the unicorn told him, pausing his writing. “This is the biggest piece of news we have in our lives! The words have to be just right enough for anypony to read. Do you wanna end up like the last guy who sent news about the Element Squad moving?”

“Ugh! Fine.” The pegasus groaned in defeat as the unicorn went back to writing. “But, if we end up in the dungeon, I’m blaming you for this!”

“Almost… there!” the unicorn then stopped writing as he was finished, using his magic to roll up the letter before placing it into a silver, cylindrical case embroidered in purple dragon imagery. He then gave it to the pegasus, who held it in his mouth. “Now go! Go-go-go!”

With that, the pegasus then flew downstairs and out the door, flying low to the ground while heading towards the wall. When he sees the lights from patrolling members of the Royal Guard, the pegasus then begins to travel through the shadows. Moving swiftly on his hooves, the pegasus sneaks past the guards and manages to get to the wall, stopping a nearby collection of statues on pedestals and standing in front of a Shadow Guard. Looking around to make sure nopony was around, he then spits out the case into his hoof and began whispering to the statue, speaking in an unknown language. With the statue’s eyes glowing red, a thick shadow extended from under the statue, creeping forward and underneath the pony’s hooves. Once the pegasus was standing in a black circle of shadows, he stopped whispering and suddenly dropped down into the shadow. After doing so, the shadow quickly retreated, disappearing under the statue as its eyes slowly lost their glow.

A moment later, in an unknown location, the pegasus reappeared in a cloud of black smoke, a pedestal with the statue of a Chinese dragon behind him. After the smoke dissipates, he then placed the case back in his mouth and ran forward, revealing he was in a cave of sorts. Reaching what appears to be some sort of exit, he stops as two spears appear and block his way, the spears being held by two Earth ponies wearing black ninja gi with silver armor along with black ninja masks that concealed their faces. The foreheads of the mask bearing an image of a demonic eye with a slit pupil made of curved arcs, the middle sections of the arcs bearing two plumes each that curved towards each other. Seeing the two look down at him, the pegasus then spoke.

“Mm-mm, mm-mm, mm, mm-mm!” Seeing the two guards raise a brow in confusion, the pegasus then realized he still had the case in his mouth before he then spits it out into his hoof and spoke again. “May chaos create new order.”

“And may our lord rule over all.” the two guards said, closing their eyes for a moment before moving their spears away, letting him pass.

With that, the pegasus flew through, revealing a large cavern on the other side, one for which had been terraformed into a sort of hideout, consisted of metal doors, black crystal walls, and rock ceiling and floor. As the pegasus flew around the place, he goes by other ponies dressed like the guards outside, all being an assortment of pegasi, unicorns, and Earth ponies. The pegasus then stops as he looks to see a denim blue unicorn stallion with a cerulean mane and tail and pale yellow eyes walking around with an emotionless expression on his face. The unicorn in question was wearing attire similar to the other ponies present, but his hooves were exposed and he had silver plate armor, the symbol on the masks bearing on the chest plate. He only stopped walking when he heard somepony call out:

“Commander Whirlpool!” the unicorn then watched as the pegasus with the case flew down to him.

“Clench.” Whirlpool said to him, sounding like he had no interest. “I expect you have something to report for once?”

“Yes, sir. We got something big.” The pegasus Clench answered, handing him the case. “You’re not gonna believe what we found out.”

Whirlpool then used his magic to take the case, the very container enveloped in a silver-blue aura. Taking the letter out from the case, he then begins to read it. His eyes widen as he rereads it.

A moment later, Whirlpool is seen rushing through the cavern, a look of fear on his face as he headed towards a large set of doors made of black and dark purple crystals. Using his magic, he burst through the doors and rushed over to a large staircase with a large throne of black and silver atop them, the throne being occupied by a pony concealed in shadow.

“Lord Dread!” Whirlpool bowed respectfully at the bottom of the stairs, addressing the pony on the throne.

“What is it, Whirlpool?” asked the pony, speaking with a cold-toned, male voice.

“Word from Canterlot, my lord!” Whirlpool answered. “It appears that Discord has been defeated.”

Dread smirked at this. “Good. Seems as though the Element Gang has made sure no one will stand in our way.”

“Yes, but there’s more, sire.” Whirlpool continued to speak what he read. “It seems as though Discord’s defeat was caused by both the Element Gang and the Elements.”

“Is that really a surprise?” Dread did not even sound worried at the news. “Of course the wielders would be involved in this, seeing as how two of their members are the Element Gang’s elementals of air and lightning.”

“That’s just it, sire. In the events of today, our spies have made a shocking discovery, a recent development amongst the wielders. It seems as though what transpired was part of a prophecy and now… a seventh Element of Harmony has appeared.”

This actually surprises Dread and causes him to lean forward in curiosity. “And who exactly wields this seventh Element?”

“That’s what is most worrisome about this, sire.” Whirlpool then pulled all the courage he had into giving the earth-shattering news he received. “The seventh Element… is Dusk Noir.”

Dread gasped and remained silent for a moment before he flashed his teeth (revealing them to be silver fangs) in anger, leading to him yelling:

“WHAT?!” with a yelp of fright, Whirlpool jumped and stood up straight as Dread stood up and got off his throne. “Are you telling me that, not only has that rat defeated the Lord of Chaos, but has somehow become an Element of Harmony?”

“That’s correct, sir.” Whirlpool said to him, trying his best to hide the fear in his voice. “Also… our spies have also discovered that he was also responsible for the defeat of Nightmare Moon.”

“Nightmare Moon?” Dread said, still angry to find Dusk has now become an Element of Harmony. “I thought he was still in Canterlot when she escaped!”

“Yes, but it seems as though his Element is what ensured the wielders victory over her, much like it had done for Discord. The window has even been changed to show that. I’m not exactly sure how, but it seems as though there was another Dusk where Nightmare Moon was defeated. How can something like this be possible?”

“Dialga…” Dread uttered, seeming to have a good idea that Dusk had went back in time and how he did it. “Seems as though that the Element Gang has more help than we realized.” He then growled as he slammed his front leg on floor. “This is unacceptable! If Dusk truly has become an Element of Harmony, then if we don’t act soon, this will undoubtedly meet our darkest hour.”

“Then what do we do?” Dread thought for a moment before he then spoke.

“Is he still in that town, the one the spies reported he and the Element Squad moved to?” he asked. “What was it again?”

“Ponyville, sire. And yes.” Whirlpool answered. “He still resides there.”

“Then it seems we have no choice.” Dread then raised a hoof, revealing it to be a claw with a single digit pointing forward. “Inform everyone to increase all efforts towards preparations. We must move ahead of schedule if we are to succeed in forming our glorious empire!”

“Yes, my lord! Right away!” Whirlpool bowed before he got back up and ran out of the room, closing the door behind him.

A brief moment after, a glow appeared on Dread’s forehead, revealing him to be a unicorn. But his horn did not emanate a normal magical glow, the light it gave was dark and ominous as it was spiraled with green, purple, and black. It wasn’t long until he looked to the side and a group photo of Dusk and his friends magically appeared, the unicorn holding it in his magic.

“My army has grown since the last time I fought them,” Dread said to himself as he looked at the photo, “but, yet again, Dusk and his troublesome friends continue to be a nuisance. And it seems as though even the ancient prophecies oppose my will. In order to succeed, I must be rid of both the Element Gang and the wielders of the very Elements of Harmony. I must ensure my plan’s fruition.” Dread then holds up his claw to his face, gazing upon it with a menacing stare. “What they all don’t realize is that what pushes them together can also drive them apart.” Dread then clutches his claw, leaving only a single digit. “Their unity…” A single silver claw then protruded from the tip of his digit, “can be poisoned. Their duty…will…” he then gently blows on it, producing a purple flame that heats up the tip of the claw, “be broken. Their destiny…” He then moved his claw to where it is now facing inches away from the photo, the tip of his silver claw over Dusk’s smiling face. “I must shatter. When I am done, the Element Gang will be no more. My revenge complete and the Elements of Harmony rendered powerless.” He then tapped his claw on the photo, leaving a purple burn mark which grows and spreads, burning the very photo. “Soon no one will stand in my way and I shall fulfill my destiny.” Once the photo is completely burned, nothing was left except for a clump of ashes that fell on the floor. With that, Dread then looked forward, smiling as he closed his eyes. “Prepare yourselves, little heroes. For you’re about to feel the wrath…of the Dark Gang!” Opening his eyes to reveal red, dragon eyes with slit pupils and his voice distorted to where it sounds demonic, Dread then gave out a long, evil, and maniacal laughter which echoed through the entire cavern.