//------------------------------//
// Chapter 12: The Phoenix 
// Story: Lost 
// by MLPTMNTPegasister 
//------------------------------//

The ponies had worked their way up the mountain after the avalanche. But, before they faced the Phoenixes, Zach had something to say. 
"We have now reached our second fight, and our chances our actually looking quite bright. I have one secret I want to share, an answer to the fight that is very fair. While it might seem bad, it's not the least bit of tragic. That fiery bird has a sense for Alicorn magic! This part is very good to mention, if we Sundown can get the Phoenix's attention..." 
"I can distract the male so you can sneak past! Zach, you're a genius!!" Sundown exclaimed, flapping his wings happily. 
"So we have a plan, great!" Hummingbird said. "Let's put it into action, shall we?" 
Sundown nodded, flying up to the father Phoenix. He yelled, "Hey, daddy boy! Come and get me!" 
The father looked up and shot himself in the direction of the sun. In the sunlight, his bright golden body shimmered, along with his red wing highlights and his orange beak. He squawked loudly, and tried to throw attacks at Sundown. 
Hummingbird, with Ruby perched on his back, led the group past the Phoenix nest, past the mother, past the little Phoenix eggs, and safely to the other side of the mountain's top. 
Zach, however, stopped at the nest, for he heard the mother's stomach rumble like an earthquake. Because of tummy pains, the mother opened her pupil-less eyes and looked merciful at the zebra. Zach knew what she wanted, and smiled. 
"I'm sorry I can't give you packs or stacks," he said. "But here, take some of my snacks." Zach gave her some of the fruit and seeds he had packed in his saddlebag, and the mother chirped gratefully. 
Smiling softly, Zach continued to the other side of the nest, but stepped on a twig and snapped it in half, grabbing the father Phoenix's attention. He squawked again, leaving the battle with Sundown to attack the zebra. 
"Hey, no!" Sundown screamed. "I'm over here!" 
The father ignored him and cawed harshly, almost hitting Zach. Realizing his situation, Zach cowered, wincing. 
But, in a flash of light, the father was pushed back by a force, and Zach opened his eyes. There sat the mother on Zach's head, squawking harshly at her mate. Zach could tell the mother was leaving her mate with her tiny eggs, and bowed to Zach, showing her loyalty. 
"What just happened?" Pizza asked. 
"We have a new addition to the team," Zach said. "My new Phoenix, Summer Gleam." 
"Guys, we just crossed the second mountain, I can see the orchard!" Sundown exclaimed, pointing to the orchard in the distance. The team celebrated, running to their savior.