//------------------------------// // Chapter 20: A New Dawn / Broly’s Redemption Begins // Story: The Legend of Broly // by I-C-U-P //------------------------------// Morning had arrived in Canterlot. The first day of peace after Equestria’s horrendous ordeal with the remnants of the Frieza Force. As well as the surprise terror in the form of the Turles Crusher Corps. With the sun rising over the horizon, the citizens could finally wake up with ease. Knowing that the danger of invasion was finally over. And after the events of the night before, they knew that they had a new protector. An alien warrior of their own. With the sunlight rising through the curtains, the room that Broly slept in lit up brighter and brighter. Yet, despite the increasing light, Broly remained in deep slumber. Possibly due the comfort of the bed he laid upon. Compared to anything else he ever slept on, the equestrian mattress was easily the most comfortable. In fact, he was so comfortable in his position, he didn’t even notice that someone had entered his room. It was only when she gleefully opened the curtains that the full force of the daylight had an effect on the slumbering Broly. The beams of light causing his eyes to quint, even when closed. As his body was slowly becoming awake, he could hear someone humming. As he hesitantly opened his eyes to look at the source of the humming, the Saiyan’s sights caught a glimpse of a mare. But a pony he had never met before. The Earth Pony was in fact one of Canterlot’s maids. Who appeared to be placing his red sash on a table. Hearing that the humming was coming from her, and seeing the smile on her face, she was clearly in an upbeat mood. As his consciousness grew more awake, Broly leant forward as she spoke up. “Who… are you?” Hearing herself being addressed snapped the mare from her humming and then turned her attention to the resting warrior. Despite being a little nervous at meeting the Saiyan for the first time, her smile returned as she greeted him. “Oh, pardon me. I didn’t mean to wake you up, sir. I was just tidying up.” Fully awake, Broly then sat up. The duvet dropping down his front. Exposing his bare chest and his gold necklace. As he looked down, he fiddled the duvet covers with his fingers. Though his face didn’t show it, he was curious at how soft they felt to his touch. Nothing from his past came close to the comfort he experienced. His attention was averted when he saw the maid slowly approaching him. Her arms fidgeted as a small blush appeared on her face. Seeing the large six pack on Broly’s muscular chest was clearly to her liking. Despite his scar present. But there was something the timid mare wanted to say. “Don’t mind me saying so, but it’s an honour to actually meet you in person. You were really amazing yesterday. You must be very brave to go up against that whole army and that giant monkey beast.” Broly was mentally stunned at how the maid described him. She was one of a few beings who was far from being a fighter, yet she didn’t seem to mind how potentially dangerous he was. In fact, she seemed glad that he was powerful. To which he questioned. “I’m… brave?” The mare responded in the same upbeat attitude. Becoming less shy by the minute. “Of course. I don’t think any pony would even dare do the things you did. You… you saved us.” Broly again was mentally stunned at the words of the maid. After everything he had done in his life, no one had ever given praise for his actions. And it was the first time someone had ever told him that he saved them. He had done the very thing that Celestia asked for him when he was freed from his stone prison. And the results were paying off in ways he never imagined. People are grateful for his help and for him just being around them. Without him even realising yet, Broly was beginning to understand the values of being good. Because the praise the maid gave him, was making him feel good. About his actions, and himself. He spoke up as he faced towards the table. “My clothes?” The maid turned to face the table. Unaware that Broly was about to get out of bed. “Oh yes. I hope you don’t mind, it’s just that your clothes were lying all over the floor. And your boots were quite heav… vy…” Her sentence lingered to a pause when she turned to face Broly. To whom had risen from his bed. With no coverings. The maid froze like a statue as she glanced downwards. She believed that Broly was sleeping in night clothes or in some pajamas. But no. To her utter surprise, Broly slept in the nude. The maid’s startled eyes went wide as she saw the giant Saiyan standing there. Completely bare. The blush on her face grew redder and redder as her expression morphed into complete startled surprise. Her mouth agape from shock at the alien exposing himself so casually. As well as the size of his… Unable to process what was going on, the maid let out a brief squeal as she quickly turned around. Avoiding the sight of Broly as her face went deep red. “Wh…Why are you naked!?” She asked. “It’s how I sleep,” Broly answered. The Saiyan was puzzled as to why the mare was acting strangely. Not knowing that it was considered inappropriate to be nude among others. With exceptions such as spas and being with a partner. Wanting to escape the embarrassment, the maid spoke up. “I’ll be waiting outside! G-Get changed please!” She said as she rushed to leave the bedroom. As he watched her leave, Broly remained confused as to what had gotten the maid all flustered. To which he then proceeded to get changed. Outside the door, the mare took in deep breaths to calm herself down. As her face returned to its natural colours, she remained startled at what she had seen. ‘What’s he thinking? Doing something like that?’ She then reminded herself that Broly was an alien. ‘Maybe it’s something that his kind does. But still... I mean… it’s not THAT kind of service.’ After several minutes of waiting, the maid heard the door opening behind her. As she turned around, she could see that Broly had gotten changed into his tattered clothes. A small blush returned on her face from seeing that the Saiyan remained topless. With the clothes lying on the floor earlier, she assumed that a shirt was somewhere within them. Apparently not. His masculine chest and arms in full view. “Oh. T-That’s better,” She said. Taking quick glances at the Saiyan’s chest. Due to his height, Broly had to slightly duck down to move through the doorway. As he stood back up, both he and the maid were joined by a member of the royal guard. The stallion clayed in metal armour. But despite his tough appearance, the guard was scared. Intimidated by the Saiyan. “Umm… you there. Alien.” After hearing his words outload, the guard immediately regretted his choice of words. Frightened that he might had offended the Saiyan. Hearing the guard calling him out, Broly turned his neutral gaze over to the stallion. The guard felt his knees wobbling from Broly’s gaze. Even if he wasn’t all powerful, the Saiyan’s physic alone was daunting to the pony. His nerves escalated when the tall being walked over to him. Towering over the quivering guard. The stallion gulped before giving his reason for being present. “Uhh… P-Princess Celestia has sent me to escort you to the dining hall. She is waiting for you there.” Despite giving the guard a blank stare, Broly knew what he was talking about. As he glanced over to the maid, she bid her farewells to Broly. “Well, my work here is done. Have a nice day.” As the maid parted ways from the boys, the stallion turned back to the Saiyan. “Well… follow me. Uhh… please.” The guard then walked to where he came. Knowing that he was leading him to Celestia, Broly followed. The stallion felt more intimidated that the tall being was just a few feet behind him. The Saiyan’s shadow looming over him. As he was being escorted, Broly took the time to look at his new surroundings. Intrigued by all the shapes and colours of the rooms and halls. As well as the other guards and maids he passed by. Certainly turning a couple of heads from near enough all of them. Looks of wonder and awe from the anthro ponies. Some of the stares were aimed at his muscular frame. Making some of the stallions almost jealous with envy. And certainly caused a couple of blushes for the mares. He may be an alien, but his appearance was near enough identical to their species. Broly then looked ahead of him. Wondering what Princess Celestia wanted to see him about. ………………………………………………………………………………......................................... In the dining hall, a meeting was taking place around the large table that the occupancies used the night before. After waking up from her slumber, Celestia sent a message to Luna, Cadence, Shining Armor, the Mane Six, Spike and Starlight Glimmer. A message for the meeting to commence between them. As soon as the group all gathered at the table, Celestia explained the reasoning for the meeting. With Luna being the only one who had an idea what it was all about. To which she was correct. The meeting was about what her sister told her the night before. “Hold on. So what you’re saying is… you want to make Broly a good guy?” Starlight asked the white Princess. “That’s exactly what I’m saying, Starlight.” The whole group all looked at each other. Amazed at what Celestia’s intensions were. But the idea came with some scepticism. “Do you think that it would work? I mean… giving what he is,” Shining Armor said. While not as nettled as she was with Luna before, Celestia’s tone carried a hint of annoyance at all the doubt. But at the same time, the doubt is justified. “I know what he is. But I believe that it will work.” Twilight then showed her support to Celestia’s idea. “Well, I think it’s really sweet of you to suggest the idea. With help, I think it can happen.” “Me two. I think he deserves a second chance. Especially after everything that happened to him,” Fluttershy added. Surprising most of the group with her support. Fluttershy had chosen the right words to use. Her statement caused the other ponies and dragon to remember all the pain Broly went through. Both physically and mentally. The agony that was Broly’s past would’ve been more than enough to break anypony. And in Broly’s case, some of his horrors he turned into uncontrollable power. “Well… I hope him being a member of a warrior race won’t be a problem,” Cadence pointed out. Joined by Spike. “Yeah. Like starting fights or something.” Fortunately for them, Celestia put those worries to rest. “That may not be an issue. From what I’ve seen, Broly is rather docile in his normal state. Which is a surprise, considering his potential. That being said, he can get agitated when provoked. So it’s best not to anger him in the slightest.” Applejack then brought up an important point. “As well as what we say around him.” “I see. Just show him that we are his friends. Sounds easy!” Pinkie Pie cheered. Believing that the task would be easy. But Twilight could see that it wasn’t as simple as it sounded. “It’s actually more than that, Pinkie. His upbringing was nothing but filled with violence and destruction. And not to mention the time when he was under his father’s control.” “Exactly, Twilight. Those actions caused Broly to lack any sort of social skills. He may not even know anything but fighting. Which is why it’s best to teach him about life in Equestria. With our peaceful way of life, it should help his mind settle down. Give him time to heal.” Celestia said. Giving the group a moment to process what she said. Then Fluttershy brought up one problem. “But what about his mind being damaged by that crown? Isn’t there anything we can do to help with that?” The worried mare asked. But Luna’s reply was less encouraging. “I regret to say that the magic used to control him is unknown to us. Plus the trauma he experienced from his past caused his mentality to become imbalanced. I doubt any magic could repair him.” Fluttershy grew sadder as she felt teary eyed. “You mean… there’s nothing we can do to help him.” Seeing the emotional mare surprised Celestia. She didn’t expect the yellow Pegasus to be one of the few who truly wanted to help him. Perhaps seeing his near execution as an infant affected her greatly. But not wanting to upset Fluttershy, the Alicorn tried to bring hope back to the equation. “I’m sure there’s a spell that we could look into.” “If there is, it would still take a while to restore his mind completely,” Luna added. As the group tried to process the situation, as well as finding ways to help Broly, Spike noticed that the usually boastful blue Pegasus was silent since the meeting began. Very silent. “Hay Rainbow?” “Huh!?” Rainbow Dash uttered suddenly. The purple dragon snapped her out of her trance. Her outburst gained the attention of the rest of the confused group. “Are you ok? You’ve been very quiet for a while,” Spike mentioned. Joined by Pinkie Pie with a raised eyebrow. Trying to bring some humour. “How strange.” Seeing that all eyes were on her, Rainbow Dash then explained her reasons for being silent. “It’s nothing. Well, its about… his Legendary Super Saiyan form.” The group felt uneasy when they heard the name of the Saiyan’s green haired form. They were worried if the blue mare may be uncertain about Broly. Or even going to admit that she was scared. The then spoke out what she was thinking. “I mean… from what we saw… that form was dangerous… frightening… the most destructive and the most unpredictable thing we’ve ever seen.” Then… when the group all thought she was going to confess her fears, to their surprise, Rainbow Dash let out a loud outburst of both frustration and… surprisingly… awe. “RRRAAAAAAGGH!!! Then why is he so cool!!?” The bewildered group all looked at her in surprise confusion. The blue mare calmed down as she saw the puzzled gazes all looking at her. To which she then explained herself. “What? You have to admit he looks awesome.” The group all looked at each other in confusion and bafflement. Surprised to hear a positive compliment about his most violent form. “That’s not the word I would use,” Luna spoke quietly to herself. Celestia then brought up a surprising development. “Well… it’s brought to my attention that you are not the only one who thought so,” She said as she pulled out something in her hand. The group all looked at the object in confusion. “Is that… an envelope?” Twilight asked. To which Celestia answered. “Yes. I found this on my way down here. It was lying outside the room Broly slept in. Possibly last night.” Her next sentence was the most surprising part. “Apparently, Broly has an admirer.” The group let out startled gasps in surprise. With Rainbow Dash reaching out to the letter. “Let me see that!” Despite her improper request to a princess, Celestia gave her the letter. After opening it up, Rainbow Dash sped run the letter. After finishing, she gazed at it in complete surprise. Eyes of disbelief. “I don’t believe it. His first night in Equestria and he already has fan mail. Even I didn’t get a fan that quick,” She admitted. Luna then turned towards her older sister. “Should we source out the pony who wrote that?” Celestia objected to the idea. “No need, sister. If anything, this is a good thing. The more he does good for our world, then more ponies would trust and befriend him.” Despite the positive outcome to which she uttered, Celestia’ slightly frowned at one thought. Twilight saw the change of expression and grew concerned. “What’s wrong?” Seeing the confusion from Twilight, Celestia revealed her concerns. “Admiration can be a double-edged sword. With how vast Broly’s power is, I’m afraid that some ponies may get… ideas. Believing that he’s some sort of deity. A god even.” While some of the group were baffled by the idea, Cadence was the first to see the problems of the outcome. “Right. They might try to worship him or something like that.” “But isn’t he just like us? Well… except being very powerful and all?” Applejack added. Luna then perked up. Not liking the idea or the outcome. “We will not allow that to happen. And you’re quite right, Miss Applejack. He may be strong, but he’s no immortal.” “I guess we have to hope that the citizens don’t get deluded with fantasies.” Shining Armor said. Hoping that the ponies would be level-headed and understanding. Then to the surprise of the group, Luna spoke to the prince with an awkward blush on her face. “P-Please refrain from using that word, Shining.” The group all looked at the Moon Princess in confusion. Wondering what was with her uneasy tone. “What word? Fantasies? Why?” The prince asked. Joined by Rarity. “What’s the matter, princess?” Luna really didn’t want to talk about what she had discovered last night. But by speaking out to Shining’s comment, it caused the others to start prying her for information. Seeing that she walked herself into a corner, she hesitantly opened up. “Well, Broly’s actions against the aliens yesterday has gained more than just admiration.” The group grew more confused at what Luna was implying. As she tried to explain, the blush of awkwardness grew brighter. Making the embarrassed princess to struggle with her words. “Y-You see… after our journey in Broly’s mind, I went back to see if any of the citizens were having nightmares. But instead… I found… something else. In…in some of the mares’ dreams… t-they were having……f-fantasies… a-about Broly.” The group all understood why Luna was struggling with her words. But their faces showed complete and utter disbelief. Wide eyes and deep blushes on their faces as to understanding Luna’s meaning. Some of the ponies even covered their faces with their hands. And Luna was unfortunate enough to witness such inappropriate actions. They couldn’t believe it. Strangely at the same time, they could understand. The Saiyans and the anthro ponies do possess similar physical aspects. In fact, if he took over their world, it was one of Turles’s ambitions. Spike however, was the only one who didn’t understand. “I don’t get it.” “Wait until you’re older,” Twilight quickly said. Wanting the awkwardness to pass. Feeling the same way, Rainbow Dash brought up an important subject. Speaking to Celestia. “A-anyway, back to your idea, princess. Won’t Broly’s transformations be a problem?” Despite the group feeling equally as unsure, Celestia was quick to reassure them with her beliefs. “It won’t entirely be a problem. His Super Saiyan form may be derived by his anger. But from what we’ve seen, he does have control over it. And comparing to the evils of our world, he may not even need the form. His normal state would be more than enough. But as I mentioned before, we must refrain from doing anything that could antagonize him.” “And… about his scary, big, buff, green haired form?” Pinkie Pie asked. Addressing Broly’s Legendary Super Saiyan form. The group all looked at Celestia. Thinking that the Sun Princess would have a hard time trying to find a solution to that problem. But to their surprise, she was quick to respond. “I took time to think, but that might not be as big of a problem than we thought.” “Huh?” The group uttered. Surprised to hear Celestia’s words. The white Alicorn then explained herself. “From my understanding, Broly’s Legendary form is tied directly to his hatred to that Goku. As long as we don’t speak of him, as well as being careful of what we say around him, then we shouldn’t have anything to worry about.” “And I think it’s best if we don’t tell about that to the other ponies. I can’t imagine how they would react,” Starlight mentioned. “You mean Broly may never have to use it?” Spike asked. While most of the group were relieved by the possibility, Celestia was with her thoughts. She still believed that in some way, it was possible for Broly to control his Legendary form. Though it was a strange image to see something that menacing protecting the citizens. But if it insured the safety of Equestria, then she welcomed it. But before the white Alicorn could express her thoughts however, she was distracted from the sight of Fluttershy. Her body seemed to be trembling, but not in fear. If anything, she looked concerned. Also spotting the yellow mare, Rarity spoke up. Unsure what the Pegasus was thinking. “Why whatever is the matter, darling?” Seeing that her friends were concerned, Fluttershy then revealed what was upsetting her. “I’m sorry. It’s just… you all are reminding me of the moment when he was defeated. His body… looked like it exploded from within.” Fluttershy paused. Though it was all a memory, she could only imagine what kind of pain Broly was in when his body cracked open in green light. And the agony of him dragging his broken body on the grounds of New Vegeta and Equestria. It all piled on the sympathy the mare felt for the Saiyan. Anymore, and she might lose it. Then to the surprise of the group, the doors to the dining hall opened up. As the group all turned to see, they saw a nervous stallion guard entering the room. With an announcement. “Princess Celestia. The alien warrior is here by your request.” Everyone in the room perked up. The magic casters could already sense his immense power. Then most of the group realized something. The last time they saw Broly, they knew little to nothing about him. But after witnessing his memories, they felt like entirely different beings. Even more wary about the Saiyan and what he could do. Some of them even felt a little intimidated. Their hearts beating like crazy. Then as the guard retreated back through the door, being dismissed, the tall form of Broly emerged. His footsteps echoing on the floor. Seeing the same Saiyan just after their memory trip gave half of the ponies a slight shiver up their spines. Them being in the same room as the warrior that could destroy a whole galaxy. Seeing the calm Saiyan enter the room made Celestia casually great him. The first to shake off the intimidation felt by the group. “Oh, good morning, Broly. Glad you could make it on time.” Broly looked over to Celestia after her friendly greeting. “M…Morning,” He replied. The Saiyan still trying to fully wake up. Then to the sudden surprise of the group, someone quickly stood up from her set. The chair being knocked over. Turning around, the group were surprised to see that it was Fluttershy. “Fluttershy?” Rainbow Dash asked. Wondering what was up with her fellow Pegasus. Fluttershy said nothing. She silently stared at the tall Saiyan with a startled expression. Broly looked back at her in wonderment. Unsure what she was planning. As she stared at him, Fluttershy began to remember all the events of Broly’s past. Losing his homeworld, trying to find another. Him losing a Saiyan he thought was his mother. Being forced to be Paragus’s slave. The torture of wearing his mind control crown. The tireless nights of containing his mental instability. The image of him finally losing control. The sight of him clinging onto life in the destruction of New Vegeta. Every single event of Broly’s suffering swarmed inside the poor Fluttershy’s mind. Each event she remembered, more of her expression changed. Not one of fear of who Broly was. Not of anger for what he had done. It was sadness. Her eyes changing to sorrow as tears began to build. The group were stunned silent. They had never seen the yellow Pegasus acting in such a way. Broly meanwhile watched her in confusion. Having no idea what she was going through. Then… as the image of the Saiyan’s cruelty arrived, the infant Broly being stabbed by the king and cast out like trash, Fluttershy finally broke down. “BROLY!!!” She cried out as she launched herself off the ground and flew directly to the Saiyan. With her arms stretched out, she wrapped herself around Broly’s waist. Burying her head in his six pack as she loudly sobbed. The group were speechless. Fluttershy was well known for her fear of almost anything new. Even her own shadow. Yet, she had done what could be the bravest thing any pony would ever do. What anyone would ever do. To the best of her ability, she tried to embrace Broly with a hug. They knew that the Pegasus was upset about Broly’s upbringing, but they had no idea it affected her so much. As for the Saiyan, he was more surprised than anyone. The startled giant looked down at the crying mare with an expression he hardly ever displayed. The ponies were afraid that such a quick action would antagonize Broly. But to their surprise, he was genuinely surprised himself. As the shock gave way, all ears heard Fluttershy loudly sobbing. Crying as she kept her head pressed to Broly’s stomach. She then started to talk. Expressing her sadness and what caused it. “I’m sorry. I-I’m sorry you have to go through such a painful life! Everyone was being so cruel to you! But no more!” As she continued to embrace Broly, the giant Saiyan was puzzled at what Fluttershy was saying. “My… pain?” Unsure what was happening, Broly turned towards the startled group. His eyes stern with determination to know. “What’s going on?” The group froze on the spot. Especially Celestia. She hoped that Broly wouldn’t find out what they had done the night before. Fearing that the Saiyan would take the news the wrong way and risk being provoked. But with Fluttershy’s emotional outburst, it seemed that it wasn’t going to happen. They had to tell him the truth, otherwise they would risk making him angry for not answering his query. With a deep breath, Celestia spoke up. “Broly. There’s something we need to tell you.” Broly calmed down before turning towards Twilight. Who was next to speak. “You see, Broly. While you did answer some of our questions last night, there was still so much we didn’t know about you.” “Either you truly didn’t know, or refused to answer,” Luna added. Believing that the Saiyan purposely hid information from them. Starlight was next to talk. Feeling nervous as to how Broly would react. “So… with Luna’s ability to enter minds, last night… we entered yours. To… see your memories.” Broly pieced the words together. And understood what the ponies were implying. His expression briefly took on a look of shock. Understandable, given that it happened behind his back. He then frowned. Knowing that a secret he tried to keep from them had been revealed. “You know then.” He uttered. Twilight spoke up. “Yes, Broly.” She then received a shiver through her body from what she was about to say. “You’re the Legendary Super Saiyan.” Broly stared blankly at her. He heard that name so many times throughout his life. Then Rainbow Dash was next to speak up. Her voice a little nervous. “And everything you’ve been through? Yeah, we’ve seen that too.” Broly had heard more than enough. He turned his sights towards Celestia and Luna. His gaze rather menacing. “So what now? Are you going to imprison me? Control me?” He asked. His tone darkened with his expression at the latter question. Celestia was shaken by Broly’s hostile tone. He clearly didn’t like his experience being controlled by his father. Which even lead to him killing his only parent. Celestia was speechless at first. But she then looked down at the grieving Fluttershy. The white Alicorn knew that she and Twilight were the most likely the ones who truly wanted to help him. But to her surprise, it seemed that even Fluttershy wanted to help. Seeing such affection for the Saiyan made Celestia all the more determined for her plan to succeed. She threw away what was left of her fear and responded to Broly with a smile. “No, Broly. That’s the last thing we would do.” Broly’s expression changed to surprise. He was very surprised. The princess knew who he truly was. How destructive he could be. Yet, didn’t want to take advantage of him or to try to get rid of him. How the anthro pony was acting was completely opposite to what Broly was used to. He listened on as Celestia got out of her chair. “I know what you are. But if anything, all we want is to help you.” “To help…me?” Broly asked. Unsure what was going on. Celestia then told him what she told to Luna the night before. “I can understand why the other Saiyans feared you. They think you’re a monster. But not me. You’re not a monster. From what I’ve seen, you’re just another victim of life’s cruelty. A victim of trauma. And the actions of your father only made it worse for you. Forcing you to know nothing but fighting. But that’s what we want to help you with. To show you that there is more to life than fighting.” Then Twilight got up from her chair. In full support to Celestia. “She’s right, Broly. There is so much more that life has to offer. You can be a better person. Use your strength for good. And in time, no one will be afraid of you anymore.” But with his past being nothing but feared by all, even his own father, Broly was doubtful. “What makes you think that would happen?” Twilight looked down to the yellow Pegasus currently cuddling the Saiyan’s waist. “I’m pretty certain that it would.” Broly looked at Twilight in confusion. Following her gaze down towards the tearful Fluttershy hugging his waist. He listened to Twilight as she continued. “Fluttershy there is one of the most timid ponies we know. But look at her now. Trying to comfort you to the best of her ability.” She added as the Pegasus stopped sobbing and looked her teary eyes up at the startled Broly. Broly didn’t know how to process the situation. It was so new to him that it almost left him unnerved. The creatures of the world he was on wanted to help him. Even knowing full well about his past. He was speechless. He could even sense that Celestia and Twilight were telling the truth. There was no deceit in their words. The white Alicorn then decided to show that even Broly was showing signs of change. “Broly. Could you tell us why you didn’t tell us the truth about yourself?” Broly looked at Celestia in uncertainty. Unsure how to answer the question. But to his surprise, the answer came from the yellow Pegasus. Whom had finally stopped crying. “I know why.” Fluttershy released her hold and took a step back as she looked at Broly. Her eyes still a little teary. Revealing the reason for Broly’s secrecy. “You didn’t want us to be afraid of you. Is that right?” As he watched her wipe her eyes dry, Broly tried to recall the reason why he didn’t tell the ponies the truth. But to his mental surprise, it was for the exact reason that Fluttershy spoke out. To which he revealed. “…yes.” He then looked at the group. “But I don’t really know why.” Some of the group were puzzled at Broly’s comment. Apparently, he didn’t know why he didn’t want the anthro ponies to be afraid of him. With him being part of a warrior race, they assumed that he would like to boast of show off his power. Yet, just like Celestia said, he was surprisingly docile. Even afraid. But Celestia knew what the answer was. To which she revealed, gaining everyone’s attention. “I know why, Broly. It was because of our hospitality. We treated you in ways you never experienced before. And in your way, you appreciated it.” Broly looked down in thought, slowly understanding what the white princess was conveying. Which to the surprise of the group, he agreed. “It felt… nice.” Hearing the revelation caused most of the group to settle down. Beginning to see that the Saiyan was being more compliant than they thought. Even some smiles were being made. More smiles came about when Celestia expressed her honest opinion. “All this shows one thing. That despite your past, there is good in you, Broly. And we can help you experience more.” She said, with most of the group nodding in agreement. Broly paused in thought. Trying to process all what was happening in front of him. Even after everything they’ve seen in what was left of his memories, they really want to help him. He then spoke up, his voice carrying uncertainty. “You really… not afraid of me?” The group didn’t need words to answer his question. Their expressions alone showed that they were convinced that the Saiyan could be reformed to the side of good. If not convinced, at least eager to try to help him to the best of their abilities. Cadence then turned to the group with a question. “So? Where do we start?” All eyes turned to Celestia. Seeing that she may have an idea on how to begin Broly’s redemption. To which she already knew the best way to start. “We’ll begin in one of the friendliest places in Equestria. Ponyville.” Half of the group looked surprised at what Celestia suggested. But to some, such as Twilight, knew exactly why the Sun Princess would start the plan in Ponyville. The purple Alicorn turned to Broly to explain. “You see, Broly. Ponyville is the name of a town that lies near the base of the mountain we’re on. It’s also the place where I learnt what friendship truly means.” “Ah remember that day,” Applejack added. Reliving the day where she first met Twilight and Spike in her head. Rainbow Dash then caught on to what Celestia was saying. “Wait. So Broly's coming with us to Ponyville?” Celestia answered with a smile. “Yes, Rainbow Dash. Ponyville would be the most ideal place for Broly to learn how things work in Equestria. As well as our way of life.” She then turned towards Broly. As if she wanted him to make up his own mind on what to do. “That is… if you want to, Broly.” The group were nervous of Celestia’s choice of words. As if she wanted Broly’s permission to be part of her plan to help him. Unaware that it was the white Alicorn’s way of letting the Saiyan be in charge of what he wants to do. Rather than force him to like what Paragus tried to do. After a brief moment of thought, seeing that the plan might be a gateway to get away from the horrors of his past, to cure him with the very thing that he needed, Broly answered. “I… I’ll try.” The group were amazed. The Saiyan seemingly wanted the help Celestia was offering. The idea of the Legendary Super Saiyan learning and coexisting with them certainly gave them a feeling that no words could describe. Furthermore, if he develops more bonds of friendship with other ponies, it would give him all the motivation he would need to protect them and the planet from future threats. “Then it’s settled. Broly is coming with us to Ponyville,” Twilight declared cheerfully. Her statement caused Luna to be concerned for what might happen if something would go wrong. Ponyville was certainly a place that wouldn’t handle Broly’s power if he were to lose control. Even if she was fully onboard with Celestia’s plan, she thought at least that Broly would be confined to Canterlot where she and her sister could keep a close eye on him. Then Spike spoke up. “Um? Would it leave a bad impression if he were to arrive in Ponyville like that?” He asked as he pointed his claw at Broly’s tattered clothes. Mostly towards the holes in the Saiyan’s torn trousers. Making Broly examine himself. “My thoughts exactly, Spike. Which is why I’m going to fix it,” Celestia said as she walked up to Broly. The Saiyan stood still. Unsure what the white Alicorn was about to do as she approached him. As she stopped a couple of feet in front of him, standing next to Fluttershy, she raised her hand at Broly and opened her palm. As her horn lit up, so did her hand. Then to Broly’s surprise, his clothes began to glow the same shade of golden light. Within moments, every wear and tear began to mend itself. The holes in his white trousers and red sash closed up. As Celestia’s spell ended, the golden light faded away. Leaving the surprised Broly to look down at his clothes. Seeing that all the battle damage had been fixed. “That was a Restoration Spell. Now you look much better,” Celestia explained. Much to the surprise to most of the group. “You’ve got to teach me that,” Rarity commented. Seeing the time-saving possibilities with such a useful spell. Broly took his time to look at his fixed clothes. Seeing that they had been restored to how they were before the events on New Vegeta. But he then froze in surprise when Celestia walked right up to him. His height towering over her. “And that’s not all,” She said as she looked down at Broly’s scar on his chest. Remembering what happened when the Saiyan landed in Equestria. “Being frozen in ice hasn’t helped you heal properly.” She continued as she placed her right hand upon the reddish mark. “Let’s fix that.” Without another word, Celestia closed her eyes and focused her magic. Utilizing on a specific spell. Broly was unsure what was happening at first. But was then surprised when his whole body began to glow along with Celestia’s magic. And a warm feeling in his stomach. Behind her, the group were all staring at the sight in awe. The Princess of the Sun was healing the Legendary Super Saiyan. Fixing what could potentially be a reminder that would rekindle his hatred for Goku. As Cadence watched the sight, she smiled. She remembered the comments made about how Celestia was very much like Pruna. The Saiyan that Broly thought was his mother. So seeing the white Alicorn healing the Saiyan was something what a mother would do to her child. Celestia was truly living up to being a mother figure Broly needed. Maybe without even realising it. When the glow faded, the spell Celestia used had done its work. When Broly looked down at his chest as Celestia backed away, he was speechless at what he saw. The hideous red mark, the burning reminder of his defeat, was gone. The unsightly sight that tortured him was no more. All that was left on his six pack was a faint white mark. Which was the true scar. “Now that’s better, isn’t it?” Celestia asked as she looked at Broly’s expression. Seeing that the tall alien warrior was in awe at what she had done. He even placed his hand on his stomach. As if he wanted to feel the change with his own touch. Broly had no words to describe what he was feeling. The level of kindness the princess had shown him was nothing he had ever experienced before. What’s more, it was after she knew what he was capable of. As if… for the first time in his life… there were people who accept him for who he was. The unknown feeling he was experiencing was so overwhelming, the left side of his lips began to curl upwards. Only one pony saw the change in expression. Pinkie Pie surprised the group by letting out a loud gasp in surprise of her own. “What’s the matter, Pinkie!?” Rarity asked. Hoping that it was nothing bad. “Did none of you see that!?” The baffled pink mare asked before pointing at Broly. Her tone full of excitement. “He smiled! He made a genuine happy smile!” The group all looked at the confused Broly. With the confused Applejack talking back to Pinkie Pie. “Are you sure?” “Yep. It was small, but it was there.” The amazed group all took Pinkie Pie’s word for it. As for Broly, he was surprised at what was happening. Before the pink party pony spoiled the moment, he truly felt something he hardly ever felt in his life. And it caused him to briefly smile. Unlike the sadistic smiles he’d done in the past, the new one felt entirely different. Though unknown to him, he liked the new feeling. That and it was making the others smile. He then looked ahead of him to the ponies around the dining table. It was clear to him that the path to his new future was in their hands. He wondered if they and any other pony could handle him. Satisfied at the turn of events, Celestia turned her attention to the others. “Now, who ready for breakfast?” Eager to have food in their bellies, the ponies all returned to their seats. With one empty seat spare, Broly took it. Being accepted by them. The Saiyan then looked uncertain. “Umm…” Celestia noticed Broly and understood what he was about to say. Remembering what happened at dinner the night before. “Oh, don’t worry. I came prepared.” With a flash of magic, breakfast was served. Each pony and dragon got a hot meal served on a plate. Twilight was left baffled. Surprised as to how Celestia got all the food ready in a single flash of magic. “H-How did…?” Celestia chuckled before answering. “My little secret, Twilight.” While everyone else got one plate, on Broly’s side were two large plates which held many normal sized plates that held all sorts of food. Broly gazed at the pile of food. Almost drooling from the sight and smells of what could be his best ever breakfast. ………………………………………………………………………………….......................................... Elsewhere in Canterlot castle, the royal guards were on duty. Either on patrol or standing guard in key areas of the palace. But one such guardsmare was disappointed in where she was. The Earth Pony mare stood by her post. Her fur a bright cream white and her long black mane, her cutiemark hidden underneath her armour. Out of the Earth Pony guards, she was by far one of the most promising in their ranks. Despite being part of a rich noble family, she was not like her parents and siblings. While greatly appreciated by her comrades, some were confused as to how she was so different. Her name was Velvet Willow. As she stood by a doorway in an empty corridor, Velvet pouted in annoyance. She was one of the few royal guards who saw Broly’s fight against Great Ape Turles. Seeing the Saiyan glowing gold imprinted in her mind. Constantly giving her the urge to see him in person. So, when she heard that he was up and about, she was hoping to be stationed nearer to his location. Only to be put on the opposite side of the castle. Hence her negative mood. “Well…this sucks,” She exclaimed. But then a stray thought appeared. Reminding her of what she had done while she was off duty last night. “I wonder if he’s got my letter.”