It had been a long day not just fighting the cockatrice and dispelling rumors, but simply leading a museum tour. It was fun at first to be with children like the siblings of the Mane Six, but those three Cutie Mark Crusaders sapped all of his energy. For Night Fury he was ready to have a vacation after everything.
"Still I wonder who that Truther was. What was his goal and why did he hate me?" He said with his usual curiosity at the hooded stallion. "Well it doesn't really matter. For me, I'm just going to get some shut eye and take a long vacation." He said fading slowly into sleep.
For Night Fury, he pleasantly had a good sleep. He was floating through his visions. Everything seemed nice with a jungle and ancient ruins. It was a break from the hustle and bustle.
But then, he saw something peculiar. He was unsure what it was. He started to float towards it, trying to make out the shape of what he was looking at, but it seemed to be getting no closer to him as he moved in its direction.
And then all of a sudden he saw this object move to him. It moved rapidly. Night Fury tried to fly away but it was too fast.
Beware…
"Huh?! Beware of what?!"
"Beware!" the object was closing in on Fury. And it caught his tail. But instead of being hostile, it seemed to have something to say.
"Night Fury! I have come to warn you of the future. You shall be part of a great struggle of enemies as time goes on. Enemies jealous of your success. And villains seeking to tarnish your honor."
"Really? I mean I already dealt with one baddie. There can't be that many ponies out to get me… right?" Fury asked.
"I'm afraid there is, young one. Many ponies, young and old, have voiced their opinions on you being permitted such luxury in a short time. Some may only have a vocal response to this point, but others may want to take matters into their own hooves."
Fury sat there processing what this figure had said. He didn't want to think that there might be somepony out there that wanted his life to be demolished, but he couldn't deny that ponies' opinions about him basically existing were very noticeable and diverse. There were some that were thrilled to have a new friend to talk and socialize with, but there were others who didn't see it that way.
Some saw him as a threat, a burden, a disgrace to nature itself! But he couldn't deny them their opinions just because he didn't like them. And from what he has seen in the newspapers, he wasn't surprised that there were some that might want to do something about him. Even if it meant getting rid of him in the most extreme way possible.
But then he realized he had already done so much. He was able to fight and control his instincts. He had grown so much since the last time he met his herbivorous friends.
"Well whatever! You know what, bring it on! I'll be all ready for them! Whether it's pony or Cragodile, they won't stand a chance!" He said confidently.
"Even if you someday have to face other Speed Shifters? Some stronger than you?"
Night Fury looked at the light with confidence.
"Like I said, whatever it is, I'll lick em!" He said confidently. He then was confused. "Wait, other Speed Shifters?"
"In the far future. You do not have to worry for now though. Focus on the task at hand! And beware of any foes, any tricker and deception." The voice said.
"Okay okay I get it, I'll be ready! Now can I get back to dreaming about eating a tower of steak?"
And with that the voice disappeared. And to Fury's dismay he immediately woke up afterwards. It was a bit late at 11 am. The dart and the stare had an effect on him. He would have to visit the doctor soon.
But as per usual, he decided to go out and read the newspaper and mail. Since he was late, the Mailmare Derpy had already given the mail indicated by the dent in the mailbox. Night Fury chuckled to himself at the funny scene in his head.
Nothing but junk mail so far. Just some more events around Ponyville he already knew. He went to amuse himself with some stories around Equestria.
"Huh? What's this?" He noticed a letter dropped out of the newspaper.
He saw that it said: For Night Fury The Speed Shifter's Eyes Only. Do NOT Show To Others.
Night Fury decided to go back inside to his office away from prying eyes to read this confidential message.
He opened the letter.
To Night Fury
Do not be alarmed. This is Princess Celestia. This must be said in top secrecy to avoid spies.
Let's get on with it. It seems that while in Ponyville you have regained your popularity, the rest of the world is more divisive. There has been an increasing movement that is suspicious or hostile against you being here ever since that Truther incident, especially in Manehattan. A place that never met you and has no positive feeling unlike Canterlot or Ponyville. In other news, there seemed to be a couple of extreme opinions spreading that are rumored to have come from you yourself. Me and my fellow princesses have decided to take it upon ourselves to have a talk with you about these opinions. I advise you to stick to formalities when you meet with us and are in public view with us as many ponies in Manehattan are very particular on respect and authority. And do not do anything suspicious or insensitive. Twilight has already set up transportation for you.
We will meet you at Manehattan tomorrow at 3 PM. You will be in a Grand Hotel. Please follow the directions of this map provided. We will finally decide what to say to these naysayers.
Do not worry. I have full confidence that you will succeed in persuading most ponies of your good intentions. You have grown much. Your father would be proud.
With good tidings, Celestia.
Night Fury wasn't expecting his dream to come true this early after only a few days afterward. It was sort of exhausting. But on the bright side he'll get to see Manehattan. He heard it was a land of giant stone and glass towers. A land of great business. A sort of modern version of the Silverblue. He was delighted to go now.
"Well, I guess I'm headed to Manehattan. Let's see where this takes me." Fury said, going to pack his bags to get ready for the trip.
-
It wasn't long before Night Fury was on a train to Manehattan. Twilight was nice enough to get him a private car on The Crystal Zephyr, Princess Cadence's private engine. He was grateful that Twilight has good connections with the princesses, she was a good friend to keep around. Within minutes, Manehattan came into view through the windows of the car. Fury was amazed at the cityscape, he had never seen such tall and big buildings before in his life. Even Canterlot thought it was magnificent, felt like an old city stuck in ancient Equestrian tradition whereas this felt like a city of the future. Perhaps this was what the Speed Shifters needed to become, creatures who also looked to the future.
When Night Fury finally disembarked from the train, he followed the map to get to the Hotel.
He was wearing a trench coat and a hat and hid his tail and paws. Twilight told him now was not a good time for other ponies to know that he was in Manehattan especially since some are already afraid of him. Fury wished that he had his transformations under control, then he could blend in without a problem. But he still hadn't gotten the hang of them, so this was the best he had for now.
While walking, he was overhearing what other ponies were saying as it was a usual hobby. It seems like everyone was excited for a certain event. For a speech by some great pony who would solve the Speed Shifter problem.
Great, they are already getting hyped up. I better hurry and talk to Celestia.
He finally made it to the Grand Hotel. A huge awesome place for only the wealthiest and most illustrious. Rarity said she dreamed of one day living in the Suites. Fury walked inside and was met with a smile from the receptionist.
"Hello sir, welcome to the Grand Hotel. How can I help you?" The unicorn receptionist greeted him.
"Hi, I'm here to meet with the princesses. Ambassador Fury, I'm on official business. Here's my card."
The receptionist looked at it making sure it was not a forgery.
"Ah, good to see you've made it, ambassador. Just take the elevator. They are waiting for you in the Master Suite, room 6B."
Night Fury went up on the elevator and since it was seen through glass, he was able to see how high he was going up. It was truly an entertaining wonder.
He finally made it to the floor.
"Let's see no, nope, nuh uh. Yes, here it is. room 6B!" Night Fury knocked on the door.
Celestia opened the door.
"Um, may I help you sir?" Celestia asked
"Princess, it's me! Night Fury!" He said, taking off his fedora to fully reveal his face.
"Ha, ha, my apologies, I guess Rarity did a good job of hiding you. Anyways, please come inside." Celestia said, inviting him inside.
"No problem. Twilight advised me to keep my more 'prominent feline features' undercover. Don't want anypony to start panicking about me being around." He said, walking inside the door into the master suite. Fury was amazed at the size and beauty of the room. The marble floors, the finely sewn tapestry, the crystal clear windows, and even the serene paintings of nature. The two soon reached a table next to a big window where Princess Cadence and Princess Luna were waiting for them.
"Hello ladies, how are you doing?" Night Fury asked, lying down on the cozy sofas.
Cadence replied.
"We've been doing quite well! I haven't been to Manehattan for awhile but at least in this successful district it has been a very fine place.
Luna simply nodded her head. She was smiling slightly seeing Night Fury.
Now Night Fury was ready to talk.
"So Princesses, I assume you didn't take me here just to go sightseeing as much as I'd like that. So, what is this Speaker up to?"
Celestia nodded and explained.
"Even before the events of Ponyville, there were some in Manehattan who had fears of you being here. But it has only been since the incident with cloaked figures that the anti-Shifter movement has really started to gain popularity. There are a lot that want you exiled from Equestria," the princess of the sun explained.
"Okay, but why is it important to specifically address this place? Maybe we can just let it fizzle out." Fury reasoned since he was exhausted from all of the craziness of that Truther incident.
"Unfortunately no. Manehattan, while not as influential as Canterlot, is still very influential in Equestria, both politically and culturally. Ponies listen to what is going on there. And this city could try to use this to try to become more influential than Canterlot, by saying how they are protecting ponies better than the ponies in Canterlot. Especially since many earth ponies are suspicious of the unicorns of Canterlot and Manehattan is the most powerful Earth Pony city." Celestia explained the political situation.
"Oh great. So not only do I have to deal with ponies spreading rumors about me, but I have to deal with an Anti-Shifter movement that basically puts a bounty on my head. And I wouldn't be surprised if I have an actual bounty on me soon!" Night Fury said, slamming his face on the couch cushion.
Celestia placed a hoof on the distressed feline's shoulders.
"I know this is rough for you, but if you succeed here, then probably ponies will mostly accept you being here. This is not easy, I understand. But now you are more prepared than before. And I have confidence, you will succeed." Celestia reassured Night Fury.
"Exactly! You have a way with words, you know?" Cadence agreed.
"That is indeed true, Night Fury, and even if you do fail once, you can try again to regain their trust. You have that talent." Luna reassured him which was the most encouraging to the black feline.
"I-I guess you're right. But how do we even get started?"
Celestia rolled out a scroll with plans.
"So here is what we ought to do. We need to display you in a positive light to the people of Manehattan. We are not sure yet but we have a few ideas: maybe you could save ponies from trouble disguised and then showing yourself at the last minute." Celestia said.
Sounds like one of Spike's power pony comics. That sounds fun.
"Another idea is that you would also make speeches on your behalf, defending yourself and proving your position. Perhaps challenge this Speaker to a debate."
"That sounds good, but I don't know the first thing about debates. Maybe we should stick to the first option for now. This speaker isn't supposed to, well, speak for a few hours." He reasoned. "And besides, I'm so tired of these speeches! I want to do some action and adventure!"
Celestia thought about it for a little while. She chuckled a bit. "Well if you wish to save the other ponies, then you might need an alternate identity. Since ponies might still not be open to you yet."
"Heck yeah, a secret identity! Maybe stopping this speaker won't be so boring after all. But I have to think of names, hmmmm." Night Fury thought.
Night Fury got up and walked around the room wondering which name he could go for.
"How about Tigerpony! It sounds pretty cool!" Night Fury said what was first in his head. Luna facepalmed at the lack of awareness.
"Oh right, felines are not cool in Manehattan yet. Never mind. Hmmmm."
Cadence raised an idea.
"How about the Suave Swords Pony! He saves others with his handsome features, flirts with mares, and-"
"THAT WILL NOT WORK, CADENCE!" Luna objected loudly for some reason.
"Okay okay, you didn't have to get loud. Sheesh." Cadence said, pouting as Fury kept going.
"Yeah sorry, Cadence, I'm not exactly the suave type. I'm not that smooth. I just have fun running around and sneaking around old caves, not flirting with any random mare. The only thing ponies know for sure about me is that I can run so fast that I basically create gale force winds like a raging storm just passed by." Night Fury said.
Then a light bulb lit up in Luna's mind.
"I have it now! Night fury, you shall be called Storm Chaser! One who chases after crime and who races for justice for those who have none. Storm Chaser!" Luna said dramatically.
"Sister, this is supposed to be Night Fury's choice, you cannot just order him-"
"I'll take it, Your Highness!" Night Fury said with excitement. "That name perfectly represents who I am. My dark looks, my high speed, and my fierce attitude. I love it!" He said with pride. He then looked to Luna. "Thanks Luna!"
Luna blushed at this. Cadence smirked knowing what was on Luna's mind.
"Very well, Night Fury or my apologies, Storm Chaser. Tomorrow you shall be doing some hero work around Manehattan. I wish you well. We will have a costume designed for you by then." Celestia said. "Until then feel free to relax in this suite. And I would advise you not to leave until you have the new suit."
"Sounds like a plan. But for now, how about we get some snacks up here? I'm starving." Fury suggested. The other princesses chuckled at his laid back demeanor and agreed. Celestia had room service come to the room with snacks and for the rest of the day, all four of them had a good time making jokes and having fun until the sun set. Fury was excited to have a secret identity, he honestly felt like a superhero! But that ordeal was to be saved until tomorrow.
-
"Fury, Furyyyy. C'mon buddy, wake up."
Night Fury had slept like a baby last night, the beds in the suite were amazing. He opened his eyes to see a familiar pink alicorn standing at his side. Fury wanted to get up for the day, but his comfort was a little more important at that moment.
"Ugh, five more minutes mom." He whined, his half awake brain speaking for him. Cadence giggled at his lazy shenanigans, he was acting just like Shining Armor when he woke up in the morning.
"C'mon Fury, you have to get up." She encouraged, but her voice only fell on deaf ears as the black cat had already begun snoozing again. The pink princess rolled her eyes at him and scoffed. Just as Cadence was about to get him up by force, Celestia and Luna walked in.
"Good morning, dear niece. Is Night Fury awake yet?" Luna asked.
"Well, I'm trying to get him up but he just won't budge." Cadence replied, poking at the slumbering feline to no effect.
"Maybe more… physical help is in order." Celestia suggested with a cheeky smile, pulling a feather from her wing. Cadence and Luna both nodded and pulled one of their own as they sneakily got closer to Fury and pulled the covers back.
"On three. One… Two… Three!" As Cadence counted down, the three princesses began tickling Fury's belly. Fury's eyes shot open as he felt the tickling sensation and began laughing. He was going to try and get back at them, but he was too busy giggling to do anything.
"Hahahahahaha! Okay okay, I'm up! Quit it!" The black feline had finally submitted, and crawled out of bed. Even a predator like him had hid weaknesses. He was particularly sensitive to tickling.
"Fine you guys win, okay? I'm up!" He said while still laughing. He calmed down a little. "Maybe it's time I had some breakfast- Take this!" Night Fury pounced on Celestia tickling her nose with his tail.
"Ah stop it, please!" Celestia screamed for help.
"Did you really think I would not have a retaliatory plan for you, Celestia?! I knew you were gonna tickle me!"
"W-w-well done- Ha choo!" Celestia sneezed loudly. Night Fury felt satisfied and now it was Cadence and Luna who were laughing at Celestia.
"Well I can see you are a resourceful feline. I guess this will prepare you for your time as Storm Chaser." Celestia said after she recovered from her sneeze fest.
Night Fury took pride in this.
Knock knock
Celestia looked through the peephole. It turned out it was a delivery pony who had a big case. After getting the case, Night Fury was curious what was in it.
"Is this what I think it is?" Night Fury asked.
"Yes it is. Your very own… suit, Storm Chaser!" Celestia said as she opened the suit revealing a trench coat suit but that was dark blue and black with gray clouds and lightning. It looked quite nice.
Night Fury couldn't wait to try it on.
"Stand still." Cadence said as she put the somewhat tight suit on the feline. "Hold still, don't move around so much!"
"I'm trying!" Night Fury said.
After a little while, it was put on.
"Well, what do you think?" Cadence asked.
He looked at himself and he was not impressed.
"I don't know, I still look like a feline here-"
"Oh, we have to add this crystal to the suit! Fury, hold out your wrist." Cadence pointed.
After she put a crystal on the wrist of Fury, all of a sudden the suit expanded and made him look more like a pony instead of a feline.
Now he started to like the new look on him. He saw his new muscular yet still sleek looking build, how he looked dark blue instead of black, how his paws looked more like hooves, how his eyes looked less catlike and more ponyish. He looked a little like a masked version of that fast Power Pony from Spike's comics. His face was covered except for the eyes.
"Woah, this suit… it makes me feel… like a total stud!" He boasted, flexing in the mirror.
Celestia grabbed the letter with the note and read it out.
Dear Night Fury, I hope that I have made a proper suit for you. I have tried my hardest to use fabrics that accommodate your Speed Shifter powers. Keep in mind however, a few things. One, you must keep that crystal in the suit or else the pony's appearance will disappear. Two, your speed abilities will have to be limited more, it's advised for you to run normally and only when you get close enough to use that speed. Anyways, darling, I hope you use it well. And if possible please do not get it too dirty! It is just so glorious! Anyways I hope you use it for heroic purposes, go forth and do your duty! Signed, Rarity of Ponyville.
"Okay, while I am bummed that I won't be able to give this thing a proper test run, I am amazed at how good this suit looks on me!" Fury said, doing a couple of poses. "Ha! Hoo! Haha, what's anypony got on me with this magnificent body!?"
Cadence, Luna and Celestia rolled their eyes at his bragging but they did seem glad for him. Luna seemed to blush just a tiny bit.
"It seems you are ready to save others. And bring yourself honor again."
"You bet I am! And even after this whole ordeal, maybe some of the rather good looking mares might look my way."
Luna grumbled to herself at that with Cadence chuckling a bit.
Celestia also chuckled and told Night Fury, "Just make sure you don't get distracted. And be aware of any criminals in your way. Manehattan has more than Canterlot, and they are usually more dangerous."
Night Fury was still not worried.
"Oh don't worry I'll be careful. I watched those old black and white gangster and detective films that Rarity made me watch and had to hear her yell and cry over. So I think I'm ready to take them on." He said confidence. "Now where do I start?"
Celestia went over to more documents in her briefcase.
Gee, Celestia sure is prepared.
"Alright, I have some target areas for you on this map," on the table she rolled out a large map of Manehattan's different districts. "Some like the one we're in now are quite peaceful already. But some areas like Tartarus's Kitchen are filled with thieves, juvenile delinquents, foalnappers, salesponies of dangerous magical items, and a few gangs."
Night Fury was surprised that Equestria had such a rough place full of messed up people. Even if there were some rough speed shifters in his village, it wasn't as bad as Tartarus's Kitchen.
"Gee, sounds like a friendly place. Well I guess I'll have to go have fun with these friendly folks." Fury said with eagerness to teach some punks a lesson. "I'll be all set. When do I start kicking criminal butt?!" He said with a power pony-like pose. Before any of the princesses could answer, an audible scream from a mare down below rang through the window.
"Well, I guess that answers that question." Fury said, quickly opening the door and readying himself. "Alright crime, you wanna cause a storm? Well, get ready for me to chase you down!"
And with that fancy quip, he was off.
"Already?" Luna said.
"Well trouble happens when and where you least expect it. Let's just watch from up here." Celestia said. "If there is trouble that he can't handle, we'll fly out the window to help."
The other princesses agreed.
-
Night Fury was running toward the screams of a terrified mare. As he scoured the streets for where it came from, he eventually found that the source of the panic was what looked like a business mare being held against her will by some scraggy looking criminal.
"An attempted pony napping? Well that just won't do, it's time that I step in." Fury said, getting closer to the ongoing scene.
"Hey, slugger!" He called out, getting the criminal's attention. The shady pony chuckled a bit at what he was seeing, some random masked pony making a scene. Was this a joke?
"Ha! And what are you supposed to be, costume boy? A magician turned too old?" He mocked in a raspy voice. Before he could make another move, Fury had already broken the hold that he had on the mare and pinned him to the concrete. By now, there was a crowd around the block that were watching the action. They were astounded by this new hero's speed and agility.
"No, I'm somepony you shouldn't have messed with today!"
"What, how did ya do that?" the criminal asked, astonished. "No pony could do that!!!"
"But this one can." Wack. He said as he knocked the mugger out into sleep.
The business mare was surprised at first but then grateful to this mysterious character.
"Sir! I am in your debt! Thank you! I don't know how I can repay you for such heroism!" She cried out while looking in her purse for money to give him.
The masked hero stopped her from reaching into her purse.
"No need to repay me, madam!" He said with a deep heroic voice. "All I want you to know is my name! And for all who are present know this: I call myself Storm Chaser! For with the ferocity of a storm, I chase down evil!" Night Fury normally would make fun of these cheesy power pony lines but he found it too fun to resist saying.
"If you have trouble, you know who to call!" He cried out. And then he turned and whispered, "Especially you, miss." He winked at her, causing her to blush.
"Oh my…" She said breathlessly, fanning herself as to not overheat from her increasing body temperature.
"Well loyal citizens, I must be off! Crime stops for nopony!" Fury called to the crowd. The ponies cheered as he ran off to find more crime, they were amazed at how he was so brave yet charming. The three princesses above were also impressed, he had handled that situation so well. But one out of the trio was much more interested in his new role and attitude than the others.
"He is quite impressive. Did you two see how he just went in and defeated that treacherous villain!?" Luna said excitedly. "Crime will fear the name of Storm Chaser, I can tell you that much!"
Cadence and Celestia were a little shocked at first to see how excited Luna was. She was never usually this peppy. But they knew what it was and smirked to each other.
"As well as handsome now too, did you see how he saved that lovely lady? She seemed to have a moment of bliss when he winked at him." Celestia asked innocently.
"Wait no! Not in that way! I do not think that he is… Wait, was that lady looking at him with lustful eyes?!" Luna quickly switched from embarrassment to rage in a flash. She then turned to the window. "You listen here, wench! You had better not have any plans for the great hero known as Storm Chaser- Mmmhhh!". Celestia and Cadence covered the enraged lunar princess's snout as the two both laughed harder than ever. "Alright auntie, I think you need to take a little breather." Cadence said as they closed the window with Luna still ranting.
-
Meanwhile, our speedy hero Storm Chaser was running through the streets of the city, searching for more dastardly deeds being done in his presence.
"Hmmm, let's see where I am first." Dang I probably should have gone to Celestia to ask where to go. Oh well.
He pulled a map out of his suit and looked around for any specific landmarks that would tell him where he was. He took a look around and saw a giant building with screens on the front of it.
Hmmm, building with big screens, V shaped intersection… I must be in time square!
He saw a busy area. With many carts carrying supplies to and fro. It would probably be a place teeming with some trouble. It would be a good warm up before going to the rougher corners of Manehattan.
"Well in the meantime, I might as well get a better view from up above." He said as he climbed and sped upward on an apartment's fire escape. He did not see much for twenty minutes. He was about to leave until he saw something and heard a crash. He didn't know what it was but he knew he had to go.
And when he went to the scene of trouble he saw on a bridge, two carriages that crashed together and the bridge was about to collapse with everyone inside!
Oh great I wasn't expecting this, I have to hurry!
"Someone help us!" said one of the passengers.
You don't have to tell me twice! "Hang on, citizens, I will save you!" He said as he ran to the bridge.
"Not to worry, for I, Storm Chaser shall save you from your terrified state!" He probably announced, grabbing onto the two carriages and pulling with all his might. The carriages scraped the ground as they moved slowly with each pull of Storm Chaser's force. Ponies scurried to the scene as he showed his strength and might, muttering softly as the bridge continued to crack and sway out of balance. Fury had to admit, the suit was pretty durable. If it could handle stress like this, who knows what it could do?
Slowly but surely, the two wrecked carriages were pulled to safety. Storm Chaser pulled the doors open by force and helped everyone out as the bridge made one final creak and collapsed into the water channel below.
"Oh thank you, Storm Chaser! You're a true hero among us all!" One mare said, warranting cheers and applause from the gathering ponies.
"Thank you all! I appreciate your support and admiration, but I must be off! There is more to be done by The Mighty Storm Chaser! Farewell!" He said, running off to other parts of the city as cheering and praises filled the air at his departure.
For the next few hours, Storm Chaser worked his magic and thwarted all types of crime. From attempting foal nappings to illegal selling, he stopped them all. And throughout his heroic day, he was given praise that nopony would ever forget. Under this mask however, was an excited and happy Night Fury as he thought of how his luck was significantly turning around.
Wow, look at what I've done. I'm a hero! And to think that I thought I wouldn't be able to do any of this just because I look different. This is sure to win the ponies of Equestria over and get them back on my side!
It was now evening, and Night Fury spent some time relaxing on top of an apartment complex.
"Storm Chaser! Storm Chaser! I need your help!"
"Okay, okay. I'm coming down. I wish I had a little more time to relax." Night Fury sped down the building to see… just a normal earth pony teenager probably five years younger than him with a suit who seemed perfectly fine.
"Storm Chaser, sir, I'm so happy to see you!"
Night Fury noticed he had a piece of paper on him.
"Ah I see. You want my autograph, don't you? Very well, just give me your pen and you can show it off to your friends and foes." Night Fury said.
"No no no no you misunderstand. This is a petition." the gentlecolt clarified.
"A petition? Of what kind do you speak of, citizen? Is it to clean up the sewage system? Reduce bribery? Have better police?" He said hoping it was something constructive and not a waste of time.
"Even more important! To stop that nefarious Speed Shifter from causing havoc!" The young stallion said rather enthusiastically. "We could use a hero's stamp of approval for our cause to drive this dreadful feline from Equestria and potentially Manehattan!"
Night Fury was now a little peeved at this stallion's eagerness. But he tried to remember not to be too angry with him. He's probably just a naive victim of propaganda. Instead he would try to persuade him.
"Listen to me, Young Citizen! I am afraid you have it all wrong! This feline, who has a name, Night Fury, is a good hearted individual! He has helped save Equestria from King Sombra! Does that sound like a villain to you?!"
"I mean that is good. But they told me it was Twilight who saved us! And Fury simply wanted to do it to take over Equestria!" He said with clear fear.
"Have you ever thought there could be more than one hero? Perhaps there can be many?" the hero asked. "And maybe he's just a decent fellow you misjudged."
This young gentlecolt was clearly confused where to go. Night Fury almost felt sorry for him.
"Well I guess we all have our opinions. Just don't tell anyone that you have these opinions, okay? They might do something to you? Or maybe to me!" the stallion said, looking behind him.
Storm Chaser was glad he at least had conflict going through his head. But he realizes whoever was leading this movement probably was quite forward. And dealt harshly with those who disagreed.
"Well, just… think about what I said, young stallion. Even if others say wrong is right or vice versa, it is your duty to stand up for what you believe in! Not be led by others." Storm Chaser instructed.
"Well… I suppose I'll think over what you said," The gentlecolt said. "I mean if you claim he is innocent then perhaps there is a point… or not."
Storm Chaser nodded in approval. "That's all I ask for, kid. Now go on!"
"Thanks!"
Night Fury started to feel proud that he influenced someone to think for themselves. But then he remembered the speech that was happening this evening.
Oh boy, I almost forgot! I've got to get to the princesses and regroup so we can stop those fools! To think these poor kids are being influenced like this. Grrr. I won't let it happen any longer if I have something to say!
Before he could get moving, the princesses all flew in and landed in front of him. Fury was still nervous about the speaker and what they would have to say but he was glad he didn't have to go about it alone.
"Oh good, you guys got to me before I could do the same thing. So, please tell me you have a plan for this speaker and hold on. Do you even know who this speaker is?" Night Fury asked rapidly.
"Slow down hero! We will explain it all." Celestia said, collecting her thoughts. "The reason why we didn't tell you is that this speaker is secret. He speaks in unknown places, so we still are unsure of who he is." Celestoa explained with some disappointment.
"Dang it, so we know nothing?"
"Well, my spies have revealed this Speaker will be making himself public five hours from now. He is said to have the approval of Manehattan's mayor. And he is going to say some ultimate plan to solve the issue with you." Luna explained since she was good with spies and stealth.
"Oh great, now I've got politics to deal with. I know this whole ambassador thing is supposed to help Equestria into a new age of friendship and trust, but it seems to be turning into more and more of a thorn in my flank as time goes on."
"Welcome to my world." Celestia bluntly said. "You'll get used to it."
"But on the bright side, we have you Mr. Storm Chaser, the champion of the ponies of Manehattan!" Cadence said. "All you have to do is reveal who your real identity is."
"Yeah that is a good point!" Night Fury remembered. "I bet they'll start to wonder if a monster or an enemy of ponies would help others so much!"
"Go then. Ni- I mean Storm Chaser. And make those ponies see the truth!" Luna said. "I know you can do it."
"Thanks Luna. That I will!"
"Here, look at this map. The speaker will probably be at this location. In the meantime, you might as well do a little reconnaissance to map out the location and see what everyone is saying." Celestia said.
"You got it! Look out speaker and prepare to eat your words!" He said right before dashing to the location.
-
Night Fury soon arrived at the location that Celestia marked for him. From his high vantage point atop a nearby building, he could see that this location was a custom built stage in the middle of an intersection. Cones blocked off the streets as ponies from all over flooded in en masse. Fury was simultaneously amazed at the pure extent of the effort that this anonymous speaker was going through, but was also upset that this many ponies believed that he was a menace. He wanted to take the stage down by force so badly, but he knew he had to do this with finesse.
"Okay, remember the plan. Get in, find out what this speaker is about from what ponies have to say, relay that info to the princesses, and then let the show play on until I get the signal and I jump in and reveal my true identity. Easy peasy, now let's get in there." He said, equipping his mask and jumping down the side of the building until he reached street level.
He decided that he would stay in the darkness and listen in on what ponies were saying instead of confronting them directly, better to keep quiet and listen in than to confront and accuse.
He finally saw two stallions talking. He decided to listen in.
"Dang it. Couldn't the Chosen One have chosen a better time to make his Grand Speech than one in the morning?! He always likes to do things at night!"
"Hey, leave him alone. He is having a rough time, with all the operations he has to do. And trying to evade the press. Heh, lucky me though, he gave me a sneak peak of what his speech is going to be."
Operations? This guy must have been in the running before dealing with me! And he's evading the press too, their highnesses are gonna have a great time with this. What else is he doing?
Storm Chaser continued listening in.
"Oh you're lucky! I wish I had as much money to spend so I could get the scoop! Come on, what did he say?!"
"Well since you're my pal, the Chosen One said he had something planned in Canterlot. He has some connections with one or some of the royalty, he didn't say who. But he has said this royalty is going to give some money to the Great Cause of Manehattan."
Royalty? He can't mean one of the princesses is in on this! Although, he might just be referring to one of the Elites or whatever. They are basically considered royalty. And I've got to remember that name, The Great Cause Of Manehattan.
Storm Chaser felt accomplishment in knowing about these secret dealings but he still was disappointed he did not know who this Chosen One was. He was considering asking them, but he figured this is probably all they know. And anyways, he would rather not look suspicious asking questions unless he was certain he could get some new stuff.
He decided to move on. He was good at sneaking through the dirty streets of Tartarus's Kitchen. Although it did smell a little icky.
He then finally reached the group of ponies themselves. He went through a sewer grate to be able to stay undercover while still hearing everyone.
Note to self, take a shower after this is all over.
He overheard many things, most of them unimportant.
"Oh my Celestia, this Chosen One is so cute!"
"He'll save us all!"
"I can't wait for what he has planned!"
"I could have been playing darts."
But on the occasion he did hear some potentially useful things.
"Let me tell you Rose! I saw his face! I love his blue eyes. They make him look so elegant and so is his golden hair."
"Shut your mouth! Do you want to get us in trouble for your blabbermouth?!"
Finally someone who knows his appearance.
"Pffft, as if we need some unicorn to tell us Earth Ponies how to defeat a threat, especially a hoity toity Canterlot fellow!
"He's one of the good ones though! He is on our side and he did say how he has some earth pony ancestry! But don't tell anyone yet about that!"
Well this is interesting. A unicorn? Well that narrows it down a bit. Perhaps some blackmail for later on. I think this might do for a solid bit of info, time to head back.
And then kept crawling feeling satisfied until he heard one last juicy piece of info.
"I heard this Chosen One in a worse case scenario might free us from the tyranny of this new Shifter and he basically said how this Speed Shifter is manipulating Celestia's personal apprentice, Twilight Sparkle! And we might have to rebel to free us from tyranny!"
"Well I hope it doesn't come down to that, but Manehattan is ready for anything!"
Now we're dealing with rebellion?! Oh great! But at least I know this Chosen One is planning something illegal. Treason.
As Storm Chaser worked his way through the back alleys and the shadows of the city, he thought about what this "Chosen One" was all about. He's a unicorn with golden hair, blue eyes, and apparently has the clearance to set up a private event. He knew that this was going to be the biggest thing he's ever done so far, but if his reputation and respect was on the line, this was a risk worth taking.
-
The princesses were waiting in the hotel when the masked hero jumped in through the window and walked up to them.
"Hello Princesses, are you in need of my assistance?"
Cadence chuckled at the corny lines. "I suppose we are, Storm Chaser, pursuer of justice. Please come in!"
Storm Chaser came in. And he removed his mask revealing himself as Night Fury. "It's nice to be myself again. It was fun but I can only do so much campiness for so long." Then he switched to a serious mode. "But listen I have found some important info!"
The black feline explained everything to the princesses from the appearance to the plans to the attempt at treason. It was a lot to unpack.
Cadence and Luna both looked surprised. They couldn't believe such a conspiracy was brewing beneath their hooves.
"Why, this is an outrage that must be punished!!! This fool will pay for trying to incite such treachery!" Luna said.
Meanwhile Celestia was silent and trying to add up this new intelligence that had been gathered.
"I see," Celestia calmly said. "This character seems to be the most treacherous. And possibly insane. Whoever is thinking this is either insane or is very clever."
"Do you think you know who this Chosen One could be?" Night Fury asked.
"There are a lot of royals that fit the description of white unicorn with blond hair. It's not exactly uncommon. We'll keep this in mind for later, but for now what is most important is that we know that this speaker has to be dealt with. We have the Equestrian law and tradition on our side and also the knowledge that you are for justice will surely help."
"What will I do?"
"You need to explain how they should instead of choosing the path of chaos that they should choose the side of justice. Some ponies might not be aware of this mutiny against Canterlot. You must keep these things in mind when you show up. And make the final dent to this Chosen One's reputation." Celestia advised.
"That'll be easy. Now we just have to get to the place and wait to make our move." As Fury said this, a stallion with a bullhorn came trotting down the street below, announcing the beginning of the event.
"Come one, come all to the speaking of The Chosen One! Let him enlighten you with his words on the growing problem of this feline menace in Tarterus's Kitchen! Be there or be square!"
Fury sighed.
"As much as I hate to hear that, that's our cue. You three get down there and wait in the crowd, trying to blend in until I get there. I'll be on top of a building nearby. You give me the signal, and I'll drop in. Agreed?"
"Agreed."
Night Fury donned his suit again and sped to said building. He wondered what this speaker would be like. And wondered what he would say to counteract him.
But whatever it is, I'm ready.
-
Storm Chaser looked at the crowds expanding even more than previously, after this he looked at the clock. Although it was dark to most, he could see it clearly. The clock was ticking. Everyone was getting excited to see this person.
"Oh my gosh, we're finally gonna see him!" He heard everyone say.
Night Fury had the same level of excitement though for different reasons. Come on clock, hurry up! I want to see this pesky pony!
And the clock was about to turn in 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1!
Ding dong!
"Ladies and gentlecolts! Our great leader to lead us away from the scourge of the Speed Shifters! I present to you, our Chosen One!"
Storm Chaser had to cover his ears as he heard everyone applaud and yell in excitement. It was quite irritating for him.
And then he saw a cloaked figure walking out of a curtain with trumpeters accompanying him.
He knew how to make a grand entrance that's for sure.
The so-called Chosen One walked to the podium. Everyone wondered what he would say.
"My dear friends, you have surely seen for yourselves, the threat that this Speed Shifter has upon Equestria! He thinks he is unstoppable! He thinks he can get away manipulating our fair princesses and heroes! But I say no! We must not let this pest get in our way! Do you agree my friends!?"
"Yes we do!" The audience cried.
"Excellent. So I shall tell you what I must do! I have special connections with the Royalty in Canterlot, sadly I cannot say in case some might try to be rid of me. But I will say this, I will represent you and I think you ought to sign a petition to Canterlot that the ponies of Manehattan shall not tolerate this menace and want him out of Equestria! Does that sound good to you?!"
The audience all cheered.
So he wants these ponies to sign this petition? We'll see about that!
"So everypony you know what you must do! Sign it now!" Just as everyone was about to make a move, a glowing light shone throughout the crowd, followed by a familiar voice.
"I THINK NOT, CITIZENRY!"
"Huh, who's that?"
"He sounds like the stallion who saved me from that mugger!"
"Is it…?"
The spotlights turned from the Chosen One, who looked annoyed the spotlight was not him, to none other than the other hero of Manehattan, Storm Chaser.
"Hello there, folks. I see you're happy to see me!"
Mares swooned, and stallions stomped and the foals cheered.
"Thank you, thank you. You're too kind."
The Chosen One looked to one of his workers. "Who let this caped fool in? This was supposed to be my time to shine!"
"It seems he just snuck up sir!"
"Fine, I will have to deal with him."
The Chosen One came to the speaker, addressing the new power pony.
"Sir with all due respect, we are in the middle of an important assignment that will affect Equestria's safety. Please be silent!"
"Ah Chosen One, that is precisely why I am here. And no, it is not to sign that petition. In fact…" As Storm Chaser trailed off, he grabbed his mask, pulled at it and revealed his true identity. The crowd gasped at who had been behind the mask all along. For it was the face of a humble feline.
"I am here to tell all of you that I'm not the creature you think I am!"
The crowd was in pure shock. The pony who had saved them all this time was… the feline menace the whole time?
"Is this a joke, because I don't like it!"
"Wha… What is going on?!" Said a stallion
"How can I marry a cat?!" The business mare said, which got a rise out of a certain blue alicorn.
"I KNEW YOU HAD FEELINGS FOR HIM, YOU WITCH!" She bellowed, before being quickly silenced by Celestia and warranting giggles from Cadence.
After hearing everyone in confusion, Night Fury spoke up.
"Everyone let me tell you. Unlike what some say, I am not out to get you or eat you or rule over you! I just want to be your friend and save you all. Especially from saving you from the worst mistake of your lives! Are you really going to commit treason for the sake of this bozo?!"
The Chosen One finally spoke up.
"Well, this bozo knows as well as you do good sir that you love the taste of meat and that you are an aggressive group of killers! I am simply trying to save everypony from your kind. I do this to keep Celestia safe by the way from your trickery!"
"Oh shut up! The only thing that you keep safe is your face from terrorizing the kids in the crowd. Yikes!" Fury teased, getting laughing and audible "Oh snap!"s in return.
"And let me ask you, the pony who hides beneath a mask. Are you implying Celestia, the most powerful princess in Equestria, could feel threatened by me? Honestly, the only thing anypony should be worried about is my humor." He joked, getting more laughs from the crowd and a small chuckle out of Celestia.
"Everyone saw me. They saw how even I had struggles saving ponies. I'm definitely not as strong as the princesses, that's for sure! Though I am probably stronger than the guy behind the mask. And besides,how can we trust your word if we can't even see who you are?"
The Chosen One could not believe this. He hired professional script writers for his speech to this rabble. And yet this overly casual cat was getting the better of him? He felt like pulling his mane out.
Much of the crowd definitely started to warm up to him. He was nothing like how the Chosen One had spoken of him. He was easy going, liked a good laugh, didn't make them show up at 1 in the morning and most of all saved their lives. Was this really what a savage beast would do?
"How dare you?! How dare you come here and ruin my I mean our grand moment?! I swear you will pay! You shall pay! Princess Celestia will make sure you pay for your crimes! If she were here she would defend my position! I can be sure of that!" The Chosen One sputtered.
"I wouldn't be so sure of that." Fury said, smirking.
"And why is that?!?" The Chosen One demanded. Before he could say another word, Fury whistled a signal out into the crowd and within seconds, all three princesses flew out of the crowd and glided onto the stage.
The audience looked in awe.
"I am Celestia, Princess of the Sun."
"I am Luna, Princess of the Night."
"And I am Cadence, Princess of Love."
"And we declare Night Fury to be a friend and hero of Equestria!" the three princesses said together.
The crowd bowed to the princesses.
"Princesses, you cannot be serious?! You believe this fiend!? I am trying to protect you all!!! And you cannot believe me?!" the so called eloquent speaker said almost saddened.
"We do. More than someone who wishes to divide Equestria and cause mutiny. Someone who has stood up for Equestria's love for friendship and harmony! Someone who has saved countless numbers of my subjects when you couldn't save even one in your life."
"And on that bombshell, I leave you all with this…" The crowd muttered as the suspense grew.
"That this black cat isn't bad luck! Hooya!"
The audience cheered and clapped for this Night Fury. They found him overall to be much more fun and charismatic then the drab, overly emotional self proclaimed Chosen One.
"Can you accept our sincerest apologies?" A young teenager that he advises asked.
"I already have, good citizen!" He said, mimicking his alter ego. "Now, who wants an autograph?!"
A lot of ponies came in to get one. But Celestia came and whispered.
"Let's not get carried away, we still have to deal with the Chosen One who seems to be running away." Celestia pointed to the escaping pony.
"Oh he isn't going anywhere, check out this old family trick." He responded. Night Fury stepped to the front of the stage and focused on The Chosen One, took a deep breath, reared up on his hind legs and slammed into the ground. The Chosen One was only able to get a few more steps in before a field of red electric waves stopped him in his tracks, almost as if he was being magnetized to the ground.
"Gah let me go!" The Chosen One said, struggling to get out. "This creature is about to eat me! Someone save me!!!"
"No thank you, you probably would taste horrible with how whiny you are." Fury dryly replied, glowing a sharp red hue.
"Oh snap, he went there!" Cadence called out, warranting shocked looks from the ponies of Manehattan. They had never seen a princess act so casually, but to be fair, Cadence was quite young compared to the millenia old sisters of Canterlot.
"Now just like one of my friend's Spike's comics, shall I reveal the identity of the traitor, Your Highnesses?!" Night Fury asked the princesses.
"Oh no you don't!" The Chosen One cried, firing a blast of magic at Night Fury's face. The shot connected and ricochet off of him thanks to the aura around him.
"Was I supposed to feel something?" Fury asked with fake curiosity.
"I wasn't aiming for you." The masked stallion replied, flicking his head upward. Everypony followed his cue and saw that the shot had hit the support of a nearby sign… A sign that was right above Luna.
"Luna, watch out!"
The sign let out a loud creak and was about to drop on Luna, so Night Fury let the villainous scum go to save the Princess of the Night.
"Are you okay, Princess Luna?!" Night Fury panicked.
"Y-yes I am alright, thank you." Luna said blushing.
"Shhhhh, it's ok. No need to speak." Fury said in a soft voice. "I must be off, do not fret for me lovely lady. I must stop the evil crook." He said with his Storm Chaser voice with a wink. And then he sped off to catch the villain.
Luna blushed at this. She knew he was just being quippy for the sake of it though, right?
"Maybe I could marry felines. They are more charming than the my coworkers-"
"Do you not have somewhere to go, miss?" Luna asked pointedly.
"My apologies! I'm leaving!" The business mare left.
For Luna, it was a charming moment to be flirted with. She hasn't had someone that close to her say that since before she became Nightmare Moon. Part of her wondered if she had a chance with this strapping young feline.
"Wait a second, this is no time for these thoughts! What is going on with the chosen one?!" She looked up to see what was going on. It appeared Night Fury went through the curtains.
For Night Fury he had to find this miscreant. It seems like he had a tunnel system under here.
"Hey Shifter, get outta here, you aren't gonna get the boss if we have something to say about it." said some scruffy looking guards with machetes.
"Oh is that so? Well let's test that out, colts!" He put himself in a fighting stance.
Ten guards charged at him, and Night Fury simply hit the wall dropping some lights on the approaching guards.
"Curses!"
Night Fury walked up to one of them.
"Please don't eat me! I'm just doing this to get paid!"
"Maybe I'll just lick you to see if you taste any good, unless you want to tell me where your boss is!"
"Alright alright, he went under the carpet! Please don't eat me." The guard pointed to a fancy carpet.
"Thanks, but you responded a little too slowly. I'm afraid I'm going to have to eat you."
"No!!!!... Huh?"
Night Fury simply booped the guard pony and laughed.
"You actually fell for that! Ha ha ha! Well I'll be off, have a nice night, squirt!" Fury said speeding looking under the carpet to find a door and he went inside.
"Eh, this job didn't pay that well anyways." The guard admitted
-
Night Fury went down and saw a long passageway.
Gee, how prepared was this creep? He asked himself.
Well I better chase him down!
He sped forward eager to chase down the fiend.
As he sped forward he heard some trotting.
"Ah ha! I gotcha you troublemaker!" Night Fury said as he finally saw the cloaked figure running.
"You'll never catch me!" He said as he stopped and two large doors closed and blocked Night Fury.
"Dang! It looks like he had this all well planned." He said, looking at the doors.
"What do you think, Speed Shifter? You have admired this meticulous craftsmanship designed to keep usurpers far away!" The Chosen One laughed hard.
"You're one to talk about being a usurper! I'll find a way to get you, I'm sure!" He looked at the doors. "And I know just what to do!"
Night Fury went back, getting a bit of a gradual speed then shifting to overdrive right into the gates.
"Ow!" Night Fury cried as the gates would not budge.
"Ah ha ha ha! See, I told you, even you have limits! Well, I have to get going now! Toodaloo!" He said as he kept running.
"Come on!" He said using his speed and trying to ram them open. It was still not working. "Dang it, I was so close to solving this and he just had to get away! Hmph!" he said, slamming the door.
By this point the doors loosened up. It seemed to be running on crystal power and it ran out of juice. He sped up only to see that the tunnel had collapsed, perhaps from an explosion.
Night Fury finally accepted he would have to wait to uncover this mysterious figure.
He decided to go back out with a crowd cheering for him.
"Night Fury! Night Fury!"
He was simply exhausted at this point and just waved. He felt a little disappointed that he failed to stop this masked figure. But he was looking forward to having a nice nap after today.
"Thanks everyone! Sadly this perpetrator has still not been caught."
The crowd seemed disappointed.
"Justice is slow. But it will happen! And also unfortunately, Storm Chaser will sadly be retiring after today."
"Nooooo!"
"I found him so charming!"
"But you already have a hero. You have noble ponies like your firefighters who will be heroes and most of you guys! You guys are the ultimate heroes! I will still be around but I want you guys to be ready to fight crime and injustice. Fix the problems that really matter, not on distractions like hunting poor kittens like me! And anyways I'm tired of the corny power pony lingo. I don't know how Spike handles that."
The crowd laughed at that, but were also inspired by his words.
"Well, I might be leaving my superhero life behind, but I'm not leaving behind my goofy humor." He said, holding his super suit up in the air.
"Hey ladies, up for grabs!" He called as he tossed the suit into the crowd.
"Mine! Mine! Mine! Mine!" All the mares fought like animals to have a piece of it while Night Fury decided to make his dash back to the hotel.
"See ya ladies. Gee, mares sure like guys in a suit."
-
Meanwhile back at the hotel, the princesses were watching the chaos from afar. They were practically dying laughing at how the mares down below were going crazy.
"Now that is the power of lust!" Cadence laughed. "He really has made an impression among the mares of Manehattan. It reminds me of a novel I wrote-"
"I'm sure it does, Cadence." Celestia said, not wanting to hear about Cadence's deep romance novels.
Meanwhile Luna was silent for awhile. She seemed to be deep in thought. She felt strange. But unlike those fanfillies, it was something deeper.
"Let me finish, Auntie Celestia." Cadence smiled at Luna. "In my novels, there are lustful fangirls but there is one true love. One who refuses to admit her love for this hero. The question is, when will she realize?" Cadence asked rhetorically.
Luna felt a blush as she heard that story.
"It is a nice tale, my niece. But I must be off to bed to watch over dreams, I shall see you later you two."
"Good night!" Celestia and Cadence smiled with smirks as they seemed to giggle slightly to each other.
Luna rolled her eyes at their immaturity.
And yet she wondered… What was this feeling she had? Was this feeling she had for this new hero persona, the one behind the mask, or maybe both? She was still confused.
"Am I falling for…"
She shook her head.
"Don't be silly Luna. He is a nice, handsome, noble creature. But I'm sure he has more exciting mares he could be with. He probably finds me boring. Ugh I need to sleep this off."
And yet he always hangs around me. He always has a fun time with me. I wonder, oh I wonder.
-
"That little Speed Shifter!" said the mysterious figure once thought of as The Chosen One. "More tea!"
The butler gave the irate stallion more tea.
The mysterious figure drank it in one sip. But he seemed as grumpy as ever.
"Oh just you wait Night Fury. Just you wait! I will have my revenge! You will not be ready for what I have in store for you next! Ha ha ha ha!"
The shadowy figure laughed.
"Butler, give me two pieces of parchment. I would like to summon my friends, the ones called the Truther and the Manipulator, for one final push. One final battle."
The butler agreed.
"Get ready, cat. This time, your nine lives won't save you."