The alliance between Mystic and Equestria continued straining due to the immortal ponies policing town-by-town like they own them. This angered the citizens to oppose while demand them to leave, but met Mystic Ponies' violence response. Most of Equestria Ponies suffered serious yet fatal injuries. Some were arrested and jailed. Others were executed for 'protesting', 'rioting' and 'speaking up' against the authorities. A few were sentenced to work as manual laborers for life. This affected the Equestria Ponies' morale as they have no choice but to stand down and avoid troubles.
At the same time, Nezha continued growing stronger, powerful and also influential than before due to him winning Mystic Council and governments' vote of confidence in him. He especially gained eight Soul Gems of Mystic Guardians. Only four more to find and get. His military force has grown fiercely strong and powerful than before as well, along with upgraded military bases, tanks and aircrafts. Mystic Ponies continued supporting him, praising him and putting their faith in him as if he was their hero. Things have become darker than before…
Somewhere in Tokyuma City, Japony…
Lance, Red Arsenal and Steel Blaze were running down the street while passing couple of ponies and creatures, who were angrily yet annoyed shouting at them to 'careful', 'watch it', 'watch they were going' and 'out of the way'. Ignoring their shouting, they were still running like something bad is about to happen.
"Guys, c'mon! We have to pick up the pace!" Lance exclaimed in concern.
"We're trying, Lance! Hold up!" Steel shouted back. He hissed, "Don't you think we should wait for backup?"
Red Arsenal nodded, "He has the point. We can't do it without reinforcement."
"I know! But this is the last portal! We can't let Tchang Zu get out!" Lance explained in concern yet firmly, "We'd be in big trouble if that happen!"
"Yeah. I get that, Lance. But this is suicide! Do you even have the plan?!" Steel asked in concern.
"He does make a point. Again." Red Arsenal begrudgingly agreed with his 'friend'. He continued, "If he did escape, do we have the castanet and some ingredients to banish him?"
Lance smirked, "Don't worry. I've got this. So, keep up the pace."
While Lance was running, Steel hissed and whispered to Red Arsenal, "Is it me or is Lance getting…"
"Reckless?" Red Arsenal finished the sentence. Steel nodded a bit. He continued, "I noticed it as well. I hope he wasn't thinking about taking on Demon Lord of Thunder. No way we can outmaneuver him and his thunder. Tchang Zu will be ready for us."
Steel sighed, "That's what worries me. I know it because I battled him to get my sister back for too many times."
At the southern part of Tokyuma City, Voltscar and his lieutenant, who wore a dark blue-colored demonically samurai armor-like with long cape, spiky gauntlets, German-themed helmet with sinister mask that has dark visor armed with double voulge were standing before the manga industry's entrance.
His lieutenant was holding Pan'ku Box, which magically levitated and attached straight into the entrance. It then created a large portal, allowing his demon father to set foot outside. Demon Lord of Thunder is freed!
Tchang Zu gave a thunderous roar, "At last! I! AM! FREE!"
Voltscar smirked proudly as he knelt down before him, "Welcome home, father."
Tchang Zu growled a bit as he glared at his nervous son, "What took you so long, son?! It shouldn't be difficult for you to find my portal. If these insignificant insects get in the way, just kill them at once! They are not a threat as the Mystic Ponies."
"Forgive me, father. Lord Tso Lan, Lord Shendu and Lady Bai Tza insisted me to use stealth to get here."
"I should've known… No doubt that lizard Shendu insisted that I'm the last one to be freed, instead of Po Kong. What are they up to now, son?"
"They were making some necessary preparation and a reward for our ally."
"Grr… Well, I certainly hope whatever their plan is, it better worth the trouble especially our continued alliance with that wretched brat."
"It will be, father. I can assure you. We should leave and return to our hideout now."
"Grr… So be it. Best not to make my brothers and sisters to wait for long. The last thing we need it trouble."
"Agreed." Voltscar concurred. He then heard some noise. He looked back as he found Lance, Steel and Red Arsenal arrived on the battlefield. He growled. "Speaking of troubles…"
Glaring at the familiar enemies of his, Tchang Zu growled while pointing at them, "You…"
Steel hissed, "We're so dead…"
"Thanks for the obvious, asshole," Red Arsenal scoffed as he readied with his bow and arrow.
Armed with Oblivion Dragon Blade and Oathkeeper Blossom Blade, Lance huffed confidently, "We can do this, guys. We've beaten him before. We can do it again! Let's kick his ass!" He then flipped the castanet for the moment, "Plus, we've got the castanet. Just need to chant it."
"Lance, wait!" Steel exclaimed in concern. Lance yelled as he charged straight at Tchang Zu and his warriors. He groaned, "I hate it when he does that."
"Yeah. Me too. I don't need another knucklehead to deal with, like you," Red Arsenal remarked sarcastically.
Steel groaned as he readied his Armored Chakram, "Ooh… You're gonna be sorry for that!"
Lance yelled as he jumped and thrust his Dual Blades at Tchang Zu, who dodged aside before grabbed and thrown him at the Hot Carrot Stall. Just before he could use his Lightning Sword, his body armor got struck by both explosive arrows and Blazing Glory Blast. Both Red Arsenal and Steel jumped and slammed a punch at his face, knocking him to fall on the industry building. They both turned and faced off both Voltscar and his demon lieutenant, how both armed with their weapons. Both teams engaged fierce duel with each other for couple of rounds.
While recovering from falling on the stall, Lance managed to get up. He quickly joined his allies to face both enemies. Lance used his Dual Blades to swung and parry of the attacks, allowing Red Arsenal and Steel to fire both Arsenal Cannon and Firebird Explosion at them. Three of them jumped and about to thrust their weapons at them but instead got knocked aside by the demonic lieutenant's double voulge. Voltscar got up and fired his Thunderstorm Strike at three of them. The heroes struggled to endure the attacks for long. But luckily, Red Arsenal managed to fire his arrow at Voltscar, exploding and trapping his foam on him for the moment. And at the same time, Steel threw his Chakram in boomerang style at the demonic lieutenant, who dodged over it before threw hers at him. He barely blocked it with both of them. She was about to finish him off if not for Lance charged in and blocked the attacks.
"Lance Justicestrike… Son of Shadow Dragon and Princess Iris Crystal…" The demonic lieutenant sneered sinisterly in female tone. He scoffed, "You're not exactly what I expected."
Lance scoffed, "What? Hoping I'm handsome? Date with me for being a famous?"
"No. I was expecting you to be weak and pathetic. No close to your father, boy."
"Oh. You're asking for this, bitch. I won't go down easily."
"Because you and your friends have defeated and banished the Demon Lords? How naïve and foolish of you to think that…"
The demonic lieutenant grunted as she pushed her voulge against Lance off. She dashed before swinging and slamming her weapon at him. He barely dodged and parried the attacks off for couple of rounds until they both had a clash. They both pushed their weapons against each other, trying to break off the stance. Unfortunately, the nameless Voltscar's Lieutenant continued pushing him down until Steel threw his chakram in boomerang at her helmet, allowing Lance to kick her off. He approached helped his best friend out.
"You okay?" Steel asked.
"Feeling peachy…" Lance grumbled. He turned and found Red Arsenal struggled to deal with Tchang Zu and Voltscar. He hissed, "Better help Red now."
"You go for it. I'll take care of this lovely lady." Steel said firmly. He turned and found Voltscar's Lieutenant managed to get up and readied with her weapon. He smirked, "Ready for round 2, little lady?"
Voltscar's Lieutenant scoffed, "Are you expecting me to dance? Because I don't."
Steel dashed as he engaged a fierce fight with Voltscar's Lieutenant. And at the same time, Lance jumped and joined Red Arsenal's fight against both father and son of Thunder. He unleashed Dragon Cross Strike on them both.
"Doing okay?" Lance asked cockily.
"Peachy." Red Arsenal grumbled while firing his arrows at Tchang Zu and Voltscar, who blocked and knocked them aside. He continued, "I told you we should wait for reinforcement. These guys are tougher than wearing armors. You should know that."
"Hey. We've got this. We just need to weaken them, and then send them back where they come from," Lance assured his friend.
Red Arsenal sighed, "Hope you're right about this."
Tchang Zu gave a thunderous roar again as he charged and rammed the archer aside. He then slammed couple of punches, which he barely rolled over to escape it. Readied with his bow, Red Arsenal fired couple of arrows at the demon, however, they all bounced off from his armor. He then summoned and fire his Thunderstorm Strike upon him. He barely dodged couple of attacks before firing two more shots at his face. The Demon Lord caught them, but the arrows surprisingly released the gas, which burnt his eyes for the moment. The archer dashed and slide underneath him before firing the arrow-lasso around his legs. Getting up, he pulled the rope, bringing the Tchang Zu down hard. He quickly got on his back, where he armed and readied with his Arsenal Cannon to fire. But instead, he got himself electrocuted and shocked by the Demon Lord's Armor Shock before got grabbed and thrown aside. Armed with his Lightning Sword, he attacked Red Arsenal, who swiftly and quickly dodged the attacks while firing his arrows and cannon at him.
At the same time, Lance and Voltscar are facing at each other while armed with their weapons, readied to attack. Charging up his body, Voltscar dashed and attacked Lance, who used his Dual Blades to parry the attacks off for couple of rounds. Just as they clashed for the moment, the Thunder Demon slammed a punch against his gut, followed by punching on him three times before kicked him off to the ground hard. He then summoned and fired his Thunderstrike Storm on him. The pony rolled away from the lightning attacks before throwing his Oblivion Dragon Blade at the demon, who managed to knock aside, but left vulnerable to him to attack. Just as Lance dashed and about to strike him, Voltscar grabbed him by the neck. He tried to swing Oathkeeper Blossom Blade but knocked it aside. The demon gave a powerful electrical shock on Lance before throwing him to the ground hard.
Both Red Arsenal and Steel got distracted when they both saw Lance slammed to the ground hard. Tchang Zu swung Red Arsenal hard while Voltscar's Lieutenant unleashed her Thunderstorm Beam to knock him straight to the ground hard. They both slide straight towards Lance. Just as the black Pegasus took out the castanet, Tchang Zu fired his Thunderbolt Blast at the item, destroying it into pieces.
"Aw man. That's not good," Steel said in concern.
Tchang Zu snarled, "Did you really believe that you could defeat me the second time? How pathetic. Not worth my time."
Red Arsenal glared at Lance, "Please tell me that you have Plan B."
Lance has the sweatdrop as he answered nervously, "Uh… No?"
Red Arsenal groaned, "Damn it, Lance. I told you before. Plan everything if things go south or else you'd be an idiot as Steel Blaze!"
Steel Blaze groaned, "Oh sure. Use me as an example of being an idiot."
"Look at you. You call yourself 'leader' and 'warrior'?" Voltscar mocked with amusing laughter. He scoffed, "Pathetic! And how disappointed. You maybe your father's son, but you're nothing like him. You will never beat me."
Lance grunted, "Damn it…"
"Finish them, son. Show them why we Thunder Demons are the fierce and mighty warriors all creatures feared the most," Tchang Zu ordered firmly.
Voltscar smirked, "With pleasure, father."
Armed with his Lighting Sword, Voltscar was preparing to execute Lance and his friends. Fortunately, he got hit by a boulder. His father and lieutenant looked up as they found Mane Six, Dragon Strike Force, Team Fighters and a group of Jopony Police have arrived at the scene. They all were charging straight at the Thunder Demons.
Tchang Zu scoffed, "Fools. No matter how many soldiers they have, they will not defeat us easily."
"I will deal with them, father. I shall destroy the enemies," Voltscar said proudly.
"I'm afraid I have to disagreed, my lords," Voltscar's Lieutenant disagreed. Both her masters looked at her. She explained, "Your father does not possess the Anti-Banishment Spell. It would be foolish to fight them as they might have another castanet."
Disliking to retreat from the fight, Tchang Zu relented reluctantly, "Very well. Take us back to our base now."
Voltscar's Lieutenant nodded firmly as she summoned the portal. Tchang Zu quickly entered, followed by the lieutenant and Voltscar himself. The Thunder Demons have escaped.
Just as Lance and his friends were recovering, they all found almost everyone especially Shadow Dragon were looking at them. They were more than happy. Lance gulped in fear as he realized that he's in big trouble now.
Everyone made their way back home. While their friends performed both their duties and activities, Shadow Dragon was having a discussion with his son over what happened at Japony Island. The father was not very pleased with Lance's reckless
Inside the Martial Arts Dojo-Bedroom from Castle of Friendship, both father and son were sitting near to the table. Lance reported to his father of why he disobeyed his instruction and engage the enemy without the plans.
Shadow Dragon sighed while shaking his head of disapproval, "Lance, I'm very disappointed in you. What were you thinking?"
Lance looked down in shame as he apologized, "I'm sorry."
"We told you to wait for backup. How could you just charge into battle without thinking especially using castanets?! They already knew you're trying to banish them."
"I…I'm just so sick of losing the fight to those guys especially after they helped seven Demon Lords escaped. I thought I could at least stop Tchang Zu from escaping. If not, I could at least banish him before Voltscar use the Anti-Banishment Spell. I didn't mean to make things worse."
"I know you mean well. But just because you've fought and defeated them before doesn't mean you can do it again. Demon Lords maybe arrogant and power-hungry monsters, but they're not stupid. They won't make the mistakes twice before. And you know it."
"Yeah. I know. I won't do it again."
Shadow Dragon added bluntly, "And of course, your martial art is getting sloppy and out of form again. You're out of practice."
Lance groaned in irritation, "Really, dad? Did you have to be hard on me?"
"Of course." Shadow Dragon nodded seriously, "If you want to be better and good, you've gotta practice and discipline yourself especially making your own fighting style."
"Right…" Lance said in unconvinced tone, "Don't suppose you can teach me some new moves?"
Shadow Dragon shook his head, "Sorry, kid. I'm not gonna teach you."
"Huh?! What?! Why?!"
"I've already taught you what I know of my own fighting style, Lance. So, you should find a new teacher now. It's time for you to learn something different and gain new experience."
"Don't supposed your buddies can help me?" Lance asked hopefully."
"No. I don't think their fighting style suit you," Shadow Dragon disagreed, disappointing Lance. He patted his son's shoulder, "But hey. I'm confident that you will find your new master very soon. Who knows? You might become a better martial artist and a fighter."
"Better than you?"
"Probably. At least, better than Tennyson. His fighting style is sloppy and reckless. I hope you don't end up like him."
"I won't!"
Tchang Zu, Voltscar and his lieutenant have returned to their hidden base from the Dark Forest. They were greeted by their kindred. The Demon Army were having a celebration for all their Demon Lords freed from their imprisonment. And at the same time, Demon Lords and Demon Successors were gathered inside the large main camp.
"Tchang Zu, welcome home," Tso Lan greeted warmly to Tchang Zu.
Tchang Zu saluted firmly by placing his fist against the chest, "It is good to be back."
"Indeed. We are now united as one," Shendu remarked sincerely. Tchang Zu gave a powerful punch on his face against the wall hard. Demon Lords and Demon Successors remained silent while Drago snickered about it. He grunted, "B-Brother? Why?! Why did I do wrong?!"
Tchang Zu growled, "Shendu, how dare you placed my freedom as the last priority?! I am a warrior! I deserved to be freed first, not last!" He then grabbed Shendu up by neck, "I will rip your head apart! You will have difficult times to regenerate!"
Having enough of Tchang Zu's arrogance, Shendu grabbed his face while readied with his Combustion Flames, "Go ahead, brother! I dare you to try! I have enough of your arrogance and disrespectful for too long!"
Tchang Zu snarled, "Go ahead. Do it!"
Before Shendu and Tchang Zu could do anything, Bai Tza unleashed her Water Spray on them straight against the wall.
"Enough with your foolishness! What matters is that we're all here. Reunited! Stronger! And more importantly, the common goal we all share – revenge," Bai Tza sternly reminded her siblings. Shendu and Tchang Zu were a bit annoyed yet relented to her command. She sighed, "Good. Now we can have discussion of our plans that Tso Lan, Shendu and I have prepared if our alliance compromised."
Tchang Zu scoffed, "I assumed Nezha intends to betray us after whatever plans he has for us to do"
"Precisely, brother," Shendu confirmed firmly while narrowed down his eyes.
"What must be done now?" Tchang Zu asked firmly.
"We will continue working with him until the right time." Tso Lan stated calmly yet coldly while holding on his claws.
Shendu growled calmly, "Yes, brother. And if he intends to betray us?"
Clenching on his fists, Tso Lan answered, "Then, we shall teach him a lesson. He will soon learn that we Demon Lords is not some group they should be taken lightly of."
"And how should we handle him, brother?" Tchang Zu questioned.
Shendu then smirked slyly, "You will enjoy this plan. We shall make the prophecy come true – The Ragnarök."
Tchang Zu was surprised yet intrigued. He looked at his siblings and the children. They all nodded seriously and sinisterly.
Tchang Zu chuckled amusingly, "Now, that's the plan I would enjoy."
Shendu nodded seriously, "We knew you would like it. To do so, we require lots of resources, arsenals, army and also specific 12 items we need to cast upon their Mystic Realm."
"Indeed. The Soul Gems of Mystic Guardians," Tso Lan concluded. Everyone gave serious yet sinister looks to nod in agreement. He continued, "We will get them soon. Our main focus is to make preparation for the Ragnarök. And I assumed you and your friends have everything complete, my daughter?"
Hak Xing bowed humbly, "Yes, father. Our forces have expanded since our arrival to Ponyville six years ago. We gathered all the resources we need for it. I hope that please you."
"It does. A worthy heir to my power and my legacy," Tso Lan complimented proudly.
Po Kong chuckled, "I can't wait for that to happen. Then, we can finally rule the world and have the feast every day."
Dai Gui's nose picked up a scent of familiar yet unwanted guest. He growled, "He's coming."
"I hate that psychopathic guy. He always snooping around our plans. He even peek on my daughter!" Hsi Wu grumbled. This prompted Song Wing to nudge him by elbow. He hissed, "Hey. Sorry if I'm overprotective dad."
"Speak nothing of this. He cannot learn the prophecy we intend for Mystic Realm," Xiao Fung said in concern yet firmly, "Or else, banishing us to Netherworld would be the least of our concerns."
Tso Lan nodded seriously, "Agreed. Let us hear what that fool wants now."
Demon Lords and their children all nodded their heads in agreement. They all turned and looked at the entrance, where Ripper has just entered.
"Ripper, so nice of you to join us," Tso Lan greeted sarcastically.
"Charming…" Ripper remarked sarcastically. Looking at both Demon Lords and Demon Successors, he remarked, "Nice to see everyone back together. Must be quite the wonderful family reunion around. Touchy…"
"What do you want, Ripper?" Shendu demanded dryly.
"The Boss sent me a mission. Hope you're ready for it especially messing with these Equestria and all you can eat buffet," Ripper stated amusingly, intriguing the Demon Lords and Demon Successors especially Po Kong, who looked very hungry and excited. He smirked, "Are you in or out?"
"Do tell us…" Tso Lan commanded firmly.
At the School of Friendship's Dojo, Arcee was practicing her Blazing Dragoon Style and Black Serpent Strike on the wooden dummy. She spent with her training for nearly 2 hours, ensuring her fighting skill remains effective, strong and not also to get rusty during the fight. Taking a deep breathe, her clenched claws glowed in shadowy flames-like form before struck straight at the wooden dummy's center hard. She has made a hole in center. She has just finished the training.
Picking up a towel, Arcee was wiping her sweats off while drinking a bottle of water. She then heard a knock on the door. She found Lance was standing before her.
"Hey Arcee," Lance greeted warmly.
"Oh. Hey, Lance. What can I do for you?" Arcee asked calmly.
"I was hoping that you could help me with something."
"Sure. I'm happy to help my friends. Come on in," Arcee said calmly as she welcomed Lance in. They both sat down near to the table while having some tea. She asked, "So, what's the problem? Is Gallus having 'asking Silverstream for date' problem? Or 'are Heatwave and Sandbar having fight again'? Don't tell me. My brother and sister did something silly again in the school."
Lance shook his head and hooves frantically, "No! No! No! Not any of that. Just asking if you can help train me?"
Arcee was taken a surprise by his request, "Huh?! Really?! You're asking me to be trainer?"
Lance nodded, "Yeah. I mean, just before you met my dad, you've trained yourself with some martial arts. There's gotta be something you can teach me."
Arcee sighed, "Yes. That is true. But you gotta remember that before I ever trained with martial arts, I was a street fighter, trying to survive on underworld city. Plus, I was a very slow and impatient learner too."
"Well, yeah. But c'mon, Arcee. Look at yourself. You've already became not only a best fighter with some awesome martial arts, but also get trained by my dad. I'm sure you can teach me with some tricks."
"Okay, smart guy, I appreciate the compliments. But I'm nowhere at my master's level, plus I'm a terrible teacher."
"Really? When?"
"Have you seen me trying to get two knuckleheads work together? And what's the result of that? They still keep fighting with each other."
"C'mon, Arcee. That has been going forever. They're not gonna change so quickly. I mean have you asked Yona not to smash couple of stuffs or get Mano to ask Solflare for date? And don't get me started with trying to get Gallus and Smolder to study."
"Fair point. But Lance, I'm not the teacher you would learn from. I'm sorry."
Lance was disappointed and upset to hear it, "Aw man. Don't supposed you can tell me which teacher I can find?"
Just before Arcee could say anything, Shiroi arrived and entered the dojo. She was surprised to say, "Oh. I didn't know you were here, Lance."
"Hey, Shiroi. What's up?" Lance asked.
Shiroi explained, "I came here to get Arcee help me to find and meet up with the guest teacher. He's coming here to check out on the School of Friendship."
"Really? Who would that be?" Arcee asked curiously.
Shiroi winked, "It's a surprise. Lance, you can come with us if you want."
Still upset that no teacher is willing to help train him, Lance decided to get over it and agreed, "Sure. Why not. Better than thinking about finding new master to train me."
"Train you?" Shiroi asked in confusion.
Arcee sighed, "We'll explain it later."
Lance, Shiroi and Arcee have left the School of Friendship, searching and meeting up with the school guest. At the same time, the young black Pegasus explained to his girlfriend about his problem. She nodded understandingly about his situation.
Shiroi hummed calmly, "Hmm… Must be tough for you."
"You have no idea. My dad won't train me. He even won't recommend me which friend of his to help me out. And of course, Arcee won't help me since she's too good for me." Lance grumbled in frustration. Arcee groaned in annoyance as she doesn't recall of the answer like that. He sighed, "Don't supposed that you can help me, Shiroi?"
Shiroi shook her head, "Sorry, Lance. I can't. I don't think I'm suitable to be your teacher because I'm more of spellcaster and sharpshooter."
Lance groaned. Arcee patted his back as she assured, "Don't worry, Lance. You'll find the master, who is willing to help and teach you with his martial arts."
Lance sighed, "I hope so…"
While walking down the street, Lance and his friends heard some screams, coming from the Ponyville Schoolhouse. They all headed straight to the school. To their shock and concerns, they found four of Demon Successors were threatening and scaring some students including Miss Cheerilee and Cutie Mark Crusaders at the school playground. They already have surrounded and cornered them to the school's wall.
Holding the broom, Cheerilee scolded, "B-Back! Demon! BACK! Go away!" Unfortunately, her brown got snapped and knocked aside, Quake then roared at her face. She grunted in disgust, "Ooh my goodness! You seriously need to brush your teeth, mister!"
"Not interested, teach." Drago disagreed while giving sinister smirk at Cheerilee and her students, who got frightened by his looks. He smirked, "But what we're interested is some payback with Crusaders especially cousin Xiao Yue."
Song Wing nodded while crossed her claws, "You bet. Our parents want their heads. And we're gonna deliver them!"
Voltscar roared as he raised his Lightning Sword up, "Indeed! Prepare for retribution! Traitor! We've been waiting for this for a long time! Revenge is ours, brothers and sister!"
"You heard the man. It's payback time!" Drago cried wildly.
"Hey! Back away from my sister!" Lance cried angrily.
Armed with Dual Blades, Lance yelled angrily as he charged straight at Drago and Voltscar. Both of them backed off immediately before engaging a duel with him fiercely. Shiroi has shifted into her alternate form – Kasai Songbird. She fired her twin blasters at Song Wing, who dodged before flying up to the sky, where she unleashed her Sonic Screech and Wing Cutter at her. Arcee rammed and pushed Quake away from Cheerilee and the students before engaging a fist fight with him. This allowed them to make the escape and hid inside the school.
While hiding inside the school, Cheerilee and the students were watching the battles. Nyx cheered, "You can do this, Lance, Shiroi and Arcee! Go get them!"
Song Wing was flying around in midair as she swiftly and quickly dodged couple of blasts from Kasai. One of them hit on her shoulder, angered her a bit. She turned and dived straight at her. Kasai unleashed the rapid shots at her but only missed due to the winged demon was swift and quick to dodge them until she rammed the unicorn to the ground. Holding the light magenta-colored unicorn up, the daughter of Hsi Wu readied with her Death Claw to finish her off. But instead, Kasai fired her Hikari Shot to blind her before kicked her off. Both of them then resumed their fierce duel as Song Wing used her Wing Cutter to strike while Kasai relied on her both blasters and martial arts to parry the attacks off.
Using her speed and agility, Arcee was running around Quake, who looked confused yet frustrated as he unable to swing his punches at her after a couple of rounds. While he was being distracted, she took the chance to attack him with Cheetah Style while parrying the punches off with her Mantis Blade Strikes. This however angered and annoyed him to roar before using Quake Cruncher, shaking the pink-colored Hippogriff to fall down hard. Armed with Earthquake Punch, Quake fiercely and angrily attacked Arcee, who quickly rolled away from him for couple of times. She managed to get up as she swung and struck both her katana and wakizashi at him, however, his skin was thick and armored for her to slash. Eventually, he used his Super Strength to attack her.
Swinging his Dual Blades, Lance engaged his Zen Slashes at Drago and Voltscar, who fiercely yet swiftly parried the attacks off for couple of rounds. The teenaged humanoid dragon fired his Dragon Flames at the black Pegasus, who flipped back while dodging the attacks. Unfortunately, he got zapped by one Lightning Arrow. Just as he landed, he found the Thunder Demon unleashed his Thunderstorm Strike at him. He barely dodged aside but got ambushed by Drago, who launched couple of punches and kicks at him. Lance barely blocked and parried the attacks until he got struck and injured from his back by Voltscar's Lightning Sword before kicking him off. Both Demon Successors fiercely yet aggressively attacking Lance, who barely parried the attacks while trying to use his Black Serpentine Strike at him but only missed. After couple of rounds, Drago managed to grab and threw Dual Blades aside. Voltscar then summoned Thunderstorm Blast on Lance. He grabbed him up before punching on his gut before throwing him straight at Shiroi and Arcee against the wall. They both groaned and moaned in pain.
Four Demon Successors regrouped and stood before both defeated heroes and victims. Lance, Shiroi and Arcee tried to stand up. Both Ms. Cheerilee and students whimpered and muttered in concern while hiding inside the school.
"Looks like the game is over," Drago remarked amusingly. His claws are engulfed in flames. He smirked psychopathically, "What say we finish them?"
"I'm with you, cous," Song Wing supported.
Quake growled as he clenched his fists, "Agreed, cousins. Revenge is ours."
"You have failed again, son of Shadow Dragon. You bring shame to your family's honor, unlike me." Voltscar mocked as he armed with his Lightning Sword. He chuckled, "Time to die."
Just before Voltscar and his cousins could finish Lance and his team, four of them got whacked very hard yet painful before got kicked aside.
While they were recovering, everyone found Master Kung Fu stood before them as he was armed with his pole.
"That is enough!" Master Kung Fu demanded firmly.
"Who the hell is that?!" Song Wing demanded with growl.
Lance gasped, "Master Kung Fu?"
Master Kung Fu aimed his pole at four of Demon Successors, "Leave now and I shall spare you from humiliation."
Instead of feeling intimidated, Demon Successors laughed out amusingly as they did not find him to be a threat. Lance, Shiroi and Arcee looked worry about the situation. Master Kung Fu remained neutral and firm while glaring at his enemies.
Song Wing slowly stopped her laughter while breathed calmly, "Okay. That is the worst joke I ever heard."
"I don't know who you are, but you're messing with wrong demons." Drago taunted.
"Humiliation? Ha! Don't make us laugh!" Quake mocked. Armed with his Earthquake Punch, he snarled at Master Kung Fu, "We are the children of Demon Lords! Do you truly believe you can defeat us?"
"Sure, you are." Master Kung Fu mocked calmly with a smirk. Demon Successor looked annoyed by his mockery. He continued, "But you're just a bunch of teenagers with attitude problem."
Demon Successors growled in annoyance, feeling insulted by him. Voltscar armed with his Lightning Swords, "You will regret for facing us, fool!"
Seeing the pony is blind now, Demon Successors decided to surround him, making sure that he won't try to escape or even get help. They all armed with their weapons, preparing to finish him off. Master Kung Fu stood still in the same position while remaining calm yet firm as if he was concentrating and energizing his Chi within. And at the same time, he was listening to their footstep and surprisingly through his blind eyes, he also can see energy flowing in every living being including his enemies.
Drago fired his flamethrower at Master Kung Fu from his back. The pony quickly dodged aside and allow it to hit Quake. The Earth Demon Successor yelled in pain, feeling the burnt on his face while unintentionally used his Geokinetic Power to throw boulders at him. He quickly swung and slammed them at three Demon Successors. Drago and Song Wing got hit while Voltscar responded by punching it into pieces. He then charged and attacked Master Kung Fu, who parried the attacks for couple of times. Seeing him distracted, Drago and Song Wing slowly sneaked behind him as they were about to attack him. Instead, he grabbed and thrown Voltscar on both of them to the ground. Manage to recover, Quake roared as he charged and fiercely attacked Master Kung Fu, who swiftly and quickly dodged the attacks before swung and knocked his pole at his face.
Drago and Song Wing managed to recover. Both of them unleashed Dragon Flame and Wing Cutter at Master Kung Fu, who dodged and evade them. Just as he came towards them, they both tried to attack him but instead parried off. He then struck his pole on their guts. He firmly struck his pole at Song Wing for couple of times before he swung and knocked her aside. Drago yelled as he struck his Blaze Fist at Master Kung Fu, who blocked and deflected them before dashed to his back, where he struck the pole on his tail. This made him yelled in pain. He turned to unleash his Dragon Flame on him. But the pony grabbed and turn him to fire on both Voltscar and Quake, who yelled in pain. They both summoned and threw Lightning Arrow and Boulder at him but hit both Drago and Song Wing instead. Master Kung Fu came in-between two brutes. They then tried to slam a punch on him. He dodged down, allowing them to hit each other. He then tripped and made them to fall on Drago and Song Wing.
Demon Successors were defeated. The demons slowly got up while glaring at Master Kung Fu, who remained on guard yet firm, preparing for the next fight.
"We'll get back at you!" Drago snapped angrily.
Voltscar growled, "Do not think this is over!"
Summoning the portal, Drago and his cousins escaped at once before it closed. Everyone was shocked yet impressed to see it. They all went wild.
"Aw man… So, that's Master Kung Fu? He's incredible," Arcee remarked.
"Are you alright?" Master Kung Fu asked calmly as he helped Lance and his friends to stand up.
Lance nodded, "Yeah. We're okay. Thanks."
"I'm happy to help. Shall we?"
"Huh?"
"You're here to escort me to the School of Friendship, am I right? Your father and mother invited me as the guest for martial arts class."
"Really?" Lance asked in surprise. He turned and looked at Shiroi, who nodded in confirmation. He nodded, "Sure, we can do that. You don't mind us bringing Crusaders along. They just finished their school."
Master Kung Fu smiled while nodded in agreement that he allowed it. Lance, Shiroi, Arcee and Crusaders guide and escorted martial arts master to the School of Friendship. At the same time, young black Pegasus was giving thoughts about Master Kung Fu, which Arcee and Shiroi noticed it.
"I know that look," Arcee remarked.
Shiroi nodded, "You're thinking about asking him to be your master, aren't you?"
"Am I obvious?" Lance asked. The girls nodded in confirmation. He sighed, "Figures…"
After escaping through the portal, Demon Successors have returned to the camp, where the rest of their allies were waiting. Hak Xing stood before Drago's Team.
"Well. Did you succeed it?" Hak Xing questioned firmly yet sternly.
Drago smirked slyly, "Goes according to our plan, cous."
"They didn't suspect a thing." Voltscar snickered a bit.
Narrowed her eyes, Hak Xing smirked in pleasant tone, "Excellent. For once, you actually did exactly follow my strategy."
Drago scoffed while crossed his arms, "Only because I hate that jackass pony more than you. But if this goes wrong…"
"It won't. For that, I can assure you, Drago." Hak Xing said firmly yet confidently. She turned and looked at Voltscar, "Is she in position?"
Voltscar nodded firmly, "Yes. Rest assured. She will find it."
While sucking his thumb like a baby, Avalanche asked, "What we do next now?"
"While waiting for her signal, we should make a necessary preparation for the Ragnarök." Hak Xing commanded firmly and stoically. She turned and looked at Mei Kai, Gusty and Song Wing. She questioned, "Can we entrust you for this mission?"
Mei Kai nodded firmly, "Rest assured, Lady Hak Xing. We will not fail."
"Ragnarök will be ready before the time of Operation: Trump. And boy, will they be surprised," Gusty mocked.
Song Wing chuckled sinisterly, "It will be the blast, sister. Totally worth it."
Hak Xing smirked pleasingly, "Excellent."
Lance, Shiroi, Arcee and Cutie Mark Crusaders escorted Master Kung Fu to the School of Friendship. Twilight and Shadow Dragon greeted him warmly by bowing humbly before him. He greeted back as well.
"Master Kung Fu, welcome to the School of Friendship," Twilight greeted.
"We hope you'll enjoy the hospitality in the school and also check out on the Martial Arts Class. Maybe you can give some tips to my students," Shadow Dragon complimented.
Master Kung Fu smiled warmly, "I am honored, Princess Twilight and General Shadow Dragon."
"Shall we head to the dojo?" Shadow Dragon asked calmly.
Master Kung Fu nodded and gestured, "Lead the way, my friend. I would like to see how skill and discipline the students are with their martial arts."
Shadow Dragon chuckled a bit, "You'll love it. They've been practicing a lot."
Twilight giggled nervously, "Trust me. They do. They're the forces to be wrecking with."
Master Kung Fu chuckled, "I'm sure they are."
Letting their guest in, Twilight and Shadow Dragon guided and escorted Master Kung Fu to the dojo. Lance, Shiroi, Arcee and Cutie Mark Crusaders followed them from behind.
"So, when are you gonna ask him, Lance?" Nyx asked playfully.
"Later," Lance answered firmly. He noticed everyone smiled slyly and amusingly while looking at him. He groaned, "I'm not being nervous and scared of him. It's not the right time. Besides, he's here to inspect and check out. I don't want to be rude."
Shiroi scoffed, "Sure. And we'll be here to support you."
Lance smiled warmly, "Thanks."
Just as they all arrived at the dojo, they heard some shouting and banging noise. Twilight and Shadow Dragon groaned in disbelief as they suspect who is in there. They opened the door as they found Rockhoof was telling the tale of his adventure to the students while performing the actions. Just as he ended the tale, they gave the applause to him.
Master Kung Fu sighed amusingly, "Once again, the Mighty Helm Warrior tells a tale of his adventure and battle against monsters again."
"Kung Fu!" Rockhoof gasped in surprise, upon seeing Master Kung Fu stood before him. He dashed to grab and hug him happily, making the blind pony yelped in pain. He chuckled out loud, "Good to see you again, my old friend! Haven't seen you a while since the Battle of Canterlot City! A worthy tale to tell, wouldn't you say, my friend?"
"Y-Yes! S-So true! B-Been a while! P-Please! Let me go! You're squeezing me!" Master Kung Fu grunted in pain.
Rockhoof yelped, "Oops! Sorry, my friend!"
Rockhoof let go and put Master Kung Fu down. The blind master panted yet breathed calmly after nearly suffocating from his bearhug.
"Rockhoof know this pony?" Yona asked in confusion.
Rockhoof nodded happily as he held his hoof around Master Kung Fu's shoulder, "Aye, Yona! Kung Fu is one of my bestie friends I have since the day friend Stygian formed the Old Pillars of Equestria. Let me tell you. He's the bravest yet wisest and most spiritual warrior I ever met. And you'd be surprise that he actually beat me in a duel. He's the best warrior!"
The students especially Yona chattered in shock and surprised about it. The yak questioned, "Yona not understand. How can Kung Fu Pony stronger and faster than you? He's puny and blind too. You're big and strong, Rockhoof."
"Yona!" Twilight scolded Yona.
Master Kung Fu assured Twilight, "It's okay, Princess Twilight. She does not know about it. She only knows might and strength, not spirit and martial arts."
Rockhoof nodded, "Now, Yona. Never underestimate your opponent, be either ally or enemy. Size doesn't matter. It's the strength and skills they have. And trust me, I learned the hard way when I faced my friend Kung Fu."
Master Kung Fu nodded firmly while remarked dryly, "Indeed. You did insult martial artist by calling us 'pigs'."
Almost everyone gasped in disbelief as they all turned and glared at Rockhoof, who looked nervous and uneasy. He then chuckled a bit of uneasiness.
"C-Come now, friend. I already made an amends from a duel as I've just said." Rockhoof nervously explained. He gasped in realization, "I have an idea. Let us tell them the tale. A tale of why you were made as a legendary warrior and martial artist."
"Surely you jest," Master Kung Fu questioned dryly.
"Come now, my friend! Tell them! They're excited! They want to know how you've become a legend! Like us!" Rockhoof insisted. The students chattered and pleaded that they also want to hear as well. He smiled, "See? They want to hear. Give them the tale they deserve to know."
Master Kung Fu sighed amusingly while shaking his head, "Alright. I shall tell you all about my tale."
Everyone cheered out wildly and happily about it. Shadow Dragon, Twilight, Lance, Shiroi, Arcee and Cutie Mark Crusaders snickered amusingly about listening to his story. Master Kung Fu began to tell his tale of how he became a legend.
Flashbacks:
Thousand years ago…
In a small village of Shi Ting City, ponies and other creatures were both chatting with each other lively while performing their work and activities. However, there are some poor struggled to survive and grown hungry every day. Among the poor, a young Kung Fu, with his clear sights of turquoise-colored pupils, was working on creating Chinese calligraphy words on long scroll.
For his daily life, Kung Fu was often requested to writing down the calligraphy for their business shops, clinics and so on. Some were for trophies and treasures. Others were used for celebration and annuals. A few was used for personal stuffs or amusement. Though he was upset, he did his best to make the living.
"Before I was made as founder and grandmaster, I was just an ordinary Earth Pony with sights, who struggled to make the living as the calligraphy writer. It's not an easy job because I don't just write on the paper, but also give the meaning behind them. Nobody cared about it, though a few wanted it."
For his daily night and weekend, Kung Fu often went to the forest, jungle, park and rural area, where he was watching and studying animals' behavior and movement towards each other. Whether they're normal, mystical or ancient creatures. This inspired him to learn while improvising and turning the studies into techniques and skills.
"But every night or weekend, I went out to the wild for watching and studying animals, (be it normal, mystical or even ancient), their behaviors and movement. It fascinated me. It amazed me. It also inspired me too. While studying their movement, I try out and performed with their moves especially the blinded creatures like badgers. And sometimes, I improvised and make them better. You could say that it becomes my hobby."
One day…
As the villagers were doing their daily business, a large group of bandits charged into the village, where they not only ransacking their properties, but also torturing and murdering the innocents including females and young ones as well.
Unable to watch the villagers' suffering for too long, Kung Fur, angered, could no long stand and do nothing. He charged as he waged a battle against them through the use of animalistic techniques he has learned. With the use of Black Serpentine Strike and Cheetah Speed Attack, he swiftly yet quickly defeated them at east. He then fought against the Bandit Leader, who has proven himself to be a challenge for him due to his immense strength and ferocity.
Despite the odds, Kung Fu remained firm yet determined as he bravely fought the Bandit Leader for couple of rounds. At the very end, the young warrior used Blazing Dragoon Style, mixed with Mantis Blade and Rabbit Speed Kicking to not only defeating the leader, but also crippled and wounded him badly.
"But one day, bandits came and attacked my village. Not only that, they've ransacked our home properties and food, as well as torturing and murdering the people including mares and foals. That very day changed me. I couldn't stand and do nothing. I fought and defeated them including defeating the leader. All thanks to my studies on animals' movement and skills."
After defeating the bandits, the villagers gave cheers for their new savior – Kung Fu. Some presented him the gifts and flowers. Others requested him to train them. A few wanted to make business with him. He did not expect this to happen in his life. He humbly accepted them especially becoming the mentor to the students.
Now as mentor, Kung Fu has founded and created the school for everyone to learn, study and master the martial arts. After passing his teachings to the students, they all became the masters themselves. They now have their own path to walk – continued the same techniques, improved martial arts, discovered the new ones and more importantly, teaching the next generations.
"After defeating the bandits, my villagers praised and cheered for me for saving their town. And of course, they requested me to train them. And so, I did. Years have passed on. I became the founder and grandmaster of my martial arts. I even built a school for everyone to learn martial arts. I also reminded them to use the martial arts for self-defense and good, not used for war.
My discovery. My knowledge. My legacy. They have passed on to new students, who became their own masters. Some may continue the same techniques. Others improved them. A few have discovered and made use of new skills for everyone else."
Years have passed, Kung Fu has become the grandmaster of the school and continued the teachings of martial arts for new students.
One day, Stygian and his newly formed Pillars of Old Equestria and Mystic have arrived at the dojo, where they planned to recruit him to be part of group. Unfortunately, Rockhoof made insensitive remarks at Kung Fu and his students. Most of them including the heroic group were annoyed by it.
"Then, one day, I've met Stygian and the Pillars of Old Equestria. They've requested my aid to assist them to save Equestria. Unfortunately, someone has the nerve to call us 'weak and small pigs', which however offended my students and villagers."
Rockhoof groaned in embarrassment, "Again! Sorry for that! But of course, I demand a challenge to prove me wrong and show us why he should be recruited to our forces."
Rockhoof issued a challenge to Master Kung Fu for a duel, which he firmly agreed. Both of them fought against each other for couple of rounds. Unfortunate for the Mighty Helm Warrior, his strength was no match for both speed and agility of the martial artist. This angered and annoyed him to use the shovel to smack the grandmaster, who used the feather duster to parry the attacks.
Humorously, Master Kung Fu has defeated him by whacking the feather duster's cane at Rockhoof's butt and limbs for couple of times before hitting on his head. He lied on the ground, knocked out of unconsciousness.
Master Kung Fu scoffed, "Yes. That is true. We fought with our punches and kicks especially our weapons. Rockhoof used shovel while I sued feather duster. We fought for few rounds until I defeated him."
Swallowing up his pride, Rockhoof concede his defeat and apologized to Master Kung Fu, who warmly forgiven him. Surprisingly, they became friends as the master trained the warrior with the martial arts especially when it involved of bear.
"Aye… I was beaten by a feather duster." Rockhoof grumbled, "How embarrassing is that, right? But nevertheless, I made an amends and apologize to everyone in the room for such slur language. And of course, I asked him if he can help train me with Bear Martial Arts, which what helps me beat Ursa Major. Admittedly, it was fun and happy."
Eventually, Master Kung Fu accepted and joined the rank. The Pillars of Old Equestria and Mystic bravely fought and battled the Dazzlings, which cost his sights due to Aria Blaze knocked the barrel of acid on them. Regardless the injury, the grandmaster remained firm as he fought back against them. Meadowbrook helped healed his wounded eyes, though his blindness is completely permanent.
After the battles, Master Kung Fu decided to train himself with spiritual power to enhanced his senses and even his blinded eyes to see through creatures' aura, which helped him fought his enemies on battlefield, as well as teaching other students. He continued working together with the Pillars to protect Equestria and Mystic Realm for years until his final battle with Shadow of Pony…
"In the end, I was recruited and joined my allies for the fight against the enemies. During the fight with the Sirens, I've lost my sight. Despite my predicament, I trained myself to focus on my spiritual side to see the aura within, as well as heightened my other senses to fight against the enemies. Of course, you know the rest."
Flashback Ends…
Just as Master Kung Fu ended his tale, the students were awestruck and astounding of hearing it. Arcee was the first creature to give the rounds of applause, followed by Gallus, Heatwave, Bella, and many more students join in as well. Shadow Dragon, Twilight, Shiroi and Crusaders also joined in.
Still dumbfounded, Yona whispered to Rak and Ciel, "Yona cannot believe Rockhoof was beaten by puny pony."
Ciel snickered a bit, "Well, believe it or not, Yona. That's how it happens."
Rak nodded, "Indeed. You know what they say – it's not the sizes that makes the pony, it's the skills."
Rockhoof chuckled happily as he grabbed and bearhug Master Kung Fu, "Now that's the tale worth telling." He groaned in embarrassment, "Except the part where I got beaten up by a feather duster. How embarrassing…"
"W-Would you mind?! You're killing me again!" Master Kung Fu grunted in pain.
Quickly let go of Master Kung Fu, Rockhoof apologized sincerely, "Oops! Sorry again, puny pony."
Lance was dumbfounded yet speechless to hear the tale. He found this beyond his expectation. Master Kung Fu might be the master he was looking for. This is his chance to request him now.
Managed to get the Grandmaster of Martial Arts for the audience, both Lance and Master Kung Fu headed straight to cafeteria, where there weren't much of students to hangout. And at the same time, they were having some meal to eat as young black Pegasus made a request to the master.
"Please, master. Will you train me?" Lance pleaded.
Not surprise by his request, Master Kung Fu remained calm yet neutral to answer, "Do tell me. Why? What exactly do you gain from my training?"
"So, I can get payback and send Demon Lords and their kids back to Netherworld. They're gonna be sorry for messing with me."
"Really now? You want me to train you just to fight and get payback?"
"Yeah. That's the point."
"Forget it," Master Kung Fur disagreed, shocking Lance to ask 'why'. He explained, "I don't train ponies for the sake of fighting and getting revenge. I find them to be very petty, stupid, immature and meaningless too."
"Aw, c'mon! Are you serious?!" Lance asked in disbelief with annoyed looks. Master Kung Fu gave stern and stoic glare at him. He explained, "Master, we are talking about fighting the demons. We're supposed to defeat and send them back to Netherworld. We're supposed to protect our home from evil like them. We're supposed to win, not lose. We're the good guys while they're the bad guys."
"Yes. I do agree with you about defeating them and protecting our home. But I cannot agree with you about winning."
"Why?"
"Because, young pony, 'victory' is meaningless and petty without 'defeat'. And without the 'defeat', you will learn nothing but to repeat the mistakes until you meet your end."
"Uh… I'm not sure I get it…"
"It means that despite you and your team gained victory over Demon Lords and their children, you have let arrogance and overconfidence get better of you. Thus, allowing them to defeat you. They have learned their mistakes and improved themselves. And you have not been practicing or even improved your skills."
"You don't have to tell me twice. That's why I asked you to help me with the training."
"Just so you can prove that you can still beat them? My answer is still 'no', boy. I won't train you for the sake of 'winning'."
"Isn't there anything I can do to change your mind?"
"There is. I want you to tell me the truth."
"Truth?"
"Yes. I want you to be honest, humble and sincere of your reason. I refused to believe that 'winning' and 'defeating the enemies' is the only thing you desired. There must be reason behind it."
After carefully thinking of what the master has said, Lance decided to tell the truth from his heart, "It's like you said. I want to be stronger. I want to be faster. I want to be good and skilled. Like my father before me. I'm not doing this for showing off or prove I can be better. I'm doing this because I don't want to let anyone down. I don't want to lose ponies I cared about. I want to protect my friends and family. And I really mess it up for thinking I can take them on."
After hearing his reason, Master Kung Fu remained calm and firm as he was deciding whether or not to accept the truth. Lance became nervous about his decision.
"If I accept your proposal, then you must follow my instruction to the letter without questions and objections," Master Kung Fu said stoically, surprising Lance. He continued, "I must warn you. This training will be intense and fierce. It requires patience, discipline, dedication, determination and most importantly, harmony. Can you do it, boy?"
Lance was surprised by Master Kung Fu's accepting his proposal. He nodded firmly, "Yeah. I can do it."
Master Kung Fu nodded firmly and smiled as he extended his hoof, "Good. Pack it up, boy. We'll return to the dojo"
Already packed up with his stuffs and clothes, Lance meets up with Master Kung Fu outside of the Castle of Friendship. They weren't alone. Twilight, Nyx, Spike and the rest of their friends were also outside as they wanted to say goodbye to him. He gave some of them a high five. While others, he gave them a hug especially his family and Shiroi.
"Are you sure you want to do this?" Twilight asked Lance.
"You don't have to do this. You don't have to prove that you're a good fighter," Nyx dissuaded her older brother.
"Yeah, I do, guys. I have to do this." Lance said seriously and firmly. He turned and patted Nyx's head gently, "Don't worry, kiddo. I'll be back, so I can train you with new and improved martial arts."
Nyx scoffed, "Yeah, right. You know anyone won't let me fight the bad guys because I don't have Battle Form." She jumped and hugged Lance warmly, "Please be safe and come back home."
Lance hugged back, "I will. Don't worry."
"Got room for four more?" Shadow Dragon's voice called. Lance looked up and found Shadow Dragon, Arcee, Red Arsenal and Steel Blaze arrived while carrying the bags. This surprised Lance. He smirked, "Didn't think we would let you go on without us?"
"You really coming, dad?" Lance asked.
Shadow Dragon nodded, "Yeah. And don't worry, I won't be messing with your training. I'm just there to see Mount Hope Temple for reminiscence."
Master Kung Fu hummed thoughtfully, "Ah yes. Master Zhao Long was your master. He trained you from our temple."
"Yeah." Shadow Dragon confirmed.
"What about you guys?" Lance asked Arcee, Steel and Red Arsenal.
"I just accompanying your father and get some training from him," Arcee said humbly.
Steel shrugged, "Just cruising around. Heard they've got some serious cook. Thought I could learn more from the chef. Ya know, to improve my cooking skill and make new recipe."
"Heard about they've got impressive blacksmith and resources. I definitely need to upgrade my weapons," Red Arsenal remarked calmly.
Shadow Dragon patted his son's shoulder, "Whatever the reason we want to go, we'll be there to support you, Lance."
"Dad…" Lance said in surprise yet happy. He nodded, "Yeah. Thanks, dad."
Just as Lance looked at Master Kung Fu, the master nodded, "You may. Let us go then."
Everyone nodded in agreement. Master Kung Fu summoned the portal, allowing him and his team to enter. And at the same time, they all waved goodbye to them, wishing them luck.
Just as the portal appeared, the group emerged out from it and now standing before the Mount Hope Temple's entrance. While the young ponies were awestruck by the majestic yet bright Shaolin-themed temple, Shadow Dragon smiled warmly of seeing it as how he remembered.
"Welcome to Mount Hope Temple." Master Kung Fu introduced warmly and calmly.
"Wow. So, this is Mount Hope Temple? It looks so cool," Lance commented.
Remembering his first time to come here, Shadow Dragon nodded in agreement, "It is. Just like old times…"
"I'm glad you like it. Enjoy your stay." Master Kung Fu stated calmly. The monks arrived and helped their guests by carrying and moving stuffs to the rooms. He turned and looked at Lance, "Come, Lance. We shall begin the training."
"Yeah." Lance agreed. He turned and looked at his father and friends, "I'll see you guys later."
Almost everyone agreed, Shadow Dragon spoke, "Lance, before you go, I want to give you an advice. No matter what instruction Master Kung Fu gives to you, you must be patient and listens to him at all cost. More importantly, don't lose your temper and jump on wrong conclusion. He will tell you why when you're ready."
Not sure what his father meant, Lance casually nodded, "Sure. I've got this. See ya."
Lance followed Master Kung Fu at once. They're heading straight to the dojo, beginning the training.
"Uh… Hate to be jerk but what kind of advice is that, Shadow Dragon? What makes you think he would lose his cool?" Steel asked in confusion.
Red Arsenal nodded, "Yeah. He's much better than this knucklehead."
"Yeah," Steel agreed. Realized of what Red Arsenal has said, Steel shouted at his friend, "Hey!"
Shadow Dragon sighed, "Because he might not gonna like this training and might get the wrong idea." Steel and Red Arsenal raised their eyebrow to look at him. He nodded, "Yeah. This training isn't something he'd be expecting of."
Knowing what his master meant, Arcee nodded in agreement, "I see what you mean. Let's just hope he doesn't blow at his master."
"You and me both, Arcee," Shadow Dragon agreed. He turned and looked at the young ones, "You guys go ahead. I would like to check on Lance. Just want to make sure he doesn't do something stupid."
Steel reluctantly accepted it while Red Arsenal agreed firmly. Arcee spoke, "I would like to accompany you, master. I'm also concern for him too."
Shadow Dragon nodded in agreement as he and Arcee headed off and followed Master Kung Fu and Lance from behind. Both Steel and Red Arsenal split up and went after what they wanted to do in the temple.
Unbeknownst to anyone around, a small black goo was wobbling and slithering towards the pillar for hidden from anyone. It then shapeshifted and formed up into a familiar figure – Voltscar's Lieutenant. The armored female warrior used her walkie-talkie to contact with her master.
"Master, I've made it. Just like how we planned," Voltscar's Lieutenant said firmly.
"Good. You know what to do now. Find the Soul Gem of Raijin Zeus." Voltscar's voice instructed through her telepathy.
"Understood. But shouldn't the Soul Gem be in Thunder Realm?"
"Unfortunately, some Mystic Ponies of Thunder don't trust their Councilpony to look after it. So, they sent it here for protection."
"So, why didn't our friend take it for himself?"
"I believe he could have. But some smartass must have told him not to do it or else his ponies would see him as a villain than a hero."
"I see. So, he would have to rely on us to do the dirty work. How amusing. I will find it."
"I'm counting on you, Lieutenant Kimiyo. When you do, teleport us here. We deal a greater blow to them."
"Yes, sir…" Kimiyo said firmly yet sinisterly, "I will find it very soon."
After turning off her communication device with her master, Kimiyo hissed sinisterly as she leaned close to the pillar, where she magically transformed into shadows. She then slithered off, began searching for Soul Gem of Raijin Zeus.
Master Kung Fu and Lance were walking down the hallway of temple. The master remained calm and firm while the youngster is excited for it.
"I wonder what kind of training I'm gonna get." Lance said excitedly. He gave some thoughts, "I could get train with some new moves like Tiger Style, Elephant Style or Monkey Style like Ben 10's. Can do some serious obstacle course to get the flag or item. Or maybe, I could be facing and fighting with some serious students of yours. Yeah. That could be it."
Despite being blind, Master Kung Fu's damaged pupils rolled over, "Don't expect too much of it, Lance. You'll be disappointed."
"I won't," Lance assured Master Kung Fu.
"We shall see," Master Kung Fu said dryly. He stopped at once. He turned and looked at the training room. He smiled, "Here we are. Open it."
Lance excitedly nodded as he opened the training room's door. He then finding something unexpected yet disappointed. He even found the monks bringing the cleaning equipment here.
"You've gotta be kidding me," Lance remarked in disbelief. He was looking at the training room, which is covered in dirty and mossy. Most of martial arts equipment and tools are covered in dust and cobwebs. He then looked at Master Kung Fu, "Tell me we're at the wrong room."
"No. This is the room," Master Kung Fu assured Lance, which annoyed him even more. He continued, "I told you not to expect it too much. This will be your training ground, Lance."
"B-But the room is a mess! How am I supposed to train?"
"By cleaning it. Obviously."
"Tell me you're joking, Master Kung Fu."
"I never joke, Justicestrike."
"Forget it. Tell someone else to do it."
"I recall that you agreed to follow my instruction without questions and objections, no matter how crazy it is. So, there is no going back."
Remembering that he has agreed with Master Kung Fu's condition earlier, Lance groaned, "Fine. I'll do it. I'll start cleaning, so we can start the training soon."
Master Kung Fu smiled as he patted Lance's back, "Good. Very good, Lance. Follow my instruction, then you'll be alright."
Lance scoffed, "Somehow I doubt of that."
"Less complaining, Lance. And more cleaning," Master Kung Fu said firmly.
Picking up some cleaning tools, Lance started cleaning up the training room. But to his surprise, Master Kung Fu unusually instructed and taught him on how to clean such as spinning a broom on cobwebs, swiftly sweeping the dust towards the dustpan, quickly mopped with cloth, scrubbing and wiping both martial arts equipment and gears with strength, and even using the mop against the wall.
Took for nearly 4 hours of cleaning, the training room is completely cleaned. Lance panted heavily as he rested on the ground. Master Kung Fu inspected on his cleaning skills by the feel of touch and smell.
Master Kung Fu hummed calmly, "Impressive. Quite spotless you've made on this room."
Lance panted exhaustingly, "Yeah. I've always cleaned my room. Completely cleaned and spotless. My mother taught me. So, when are you gonna train me?"
"You already have," Master Kung Fu said cryptically, confusing Lance. He turned and looked at him, "Now, let us see what you can really do. Now mop the floor!"
Master Kung Fu charged and attacked Lance, who quickly panicked as he slides away from his attacks for few times. Calling 'spin the cobwebs' as the master thrust his punch at him. He grabbed the hoof before spun it around before throwing him straight at the wall, where the elder pony landed on it safely. Shouting out 'mop the wall' before bouncing off, he thrust a kick at Lance, who quickly blocked and pushed it back. Master Kung Fu shouted 'scrub the equipment' before struck his punches at the Pegasus, who blocked and deflected the attacks aside for few times. The master thrust and swung his kicks while ordering 'sweeping the dust off', prompting Lance to block and knock the attacks aside.
Seeing Lance already knew the basic forms, Master Kung Fu fiercely attacked Lance, who used the cleaning moves to block and parry the attacks for couple of rounds. Just as the master struck his last thrust of punch, the Pegasus firmly blocked it before spin him around, throwing him aside. Earth Pony managed to recover and stand still.
"Well done." Master Kung Fu commented.
"W-Wow! W-What just happen?" Lance asked in confusion.
"Simple. Just like I promised, I trained you. Cleaning the training room is the first basic lessons to learn. You're indeed a fast learner."
"You could have told me about this."
"If I did, you wouldn't take this seriously, probably brush it off and want something that is too difficult for you to handle. That is why I make the condition for you to follow. I have to see if you're truly dedicated and serious with it. It seems you did."
"I see. No wonder my dad gave me the advice. He must have gone through this before."
"He did," Master Kung Fu confirmed. He chuckled a bit, "I was told that he did throw terrible tantrum for doing the chores for months without realizing Master Zhao Long was actually training him with cleaning tools."
Lance sighed, "Glad I didn't do that. So, what's my next cleaning lesson? I mean training, master."
Master Kung Fu smiled warmly with approval nod, "That's the spirit, young one. Next one will be intense now, but also still doing chores as well."
"So, why do chores again?"
"It helps build up your discipline to focus on training. Are you ready for next training?"
"You betcha."
Proud to hear that Lance wished to continue with his training, Master Kung Fu smiled, "Good. Now let's focus with your favorite martial arts. Start from the basic. They required some improvement and more focus before we can advance further."
Lance scoffed, "C'mon, Master Kung Fu. I am more focused. I don't need to improve my martial arts. Just need to learn new one."
Not impressed by his attitude, Master Kung Fu swiftly swung his kick at Lance, knocking him to the ground hard. The master remarked, "Your focus needs more focus."
Lance groaned in pain, "Touché. Will listen."
After getting his new apprentice to get up, Master Kung Fu began training Lance to improve his Blazing Dragon Style and Black Serpentine Strike, making them better than his father's. Shadow Dragon and Arcee saw what happened. They both smiled warmly and proudly about it.
Shadow Dragon and Arcee walked down the hallway as they were having discussion about what happened.
"Glad that your son didn't end up messing with his first lesson," Arcee remarked in relief. Shadow Dragon nodded in agreement. She continued, "You know. I was kinda surprised that you actually threw a tantrum when you started a lesson."
Shadow Dragon scoffed, "Well, what do you expect, Arcee? I was a kid. Of course, I was impatient and lost temper because I wanted to learn real martial arts. All I did is doing the chores that has nothing to do with my training."
"I'm guessing that you realized that your master really did train you."
"Yeah. I was wrong to jump to conclusion. Master Zhao Long clarified me with that. He shown me that martial art is more than fighting, Arcee. It's everything we do in life. Kinda like Master Kung Fu's story when he created the martial arts, based on animals' movement."
"Wow. That's incredible." Arcee said understandingly. She gave some thoughts as she asked, "Master, can you tell me more about Master Zhao Long?"
Shadow Dragon looked surprise as he asked, "Oh? Curious?"
Arcee nodded, "Yes. I was wondering why he's the only master willing to help and train you while others don't. Did you do something to impress him?"
Shadow Dragon scoffed, "It's more like he did something to impress and inspire me to join the club."
"Really?" Arcee asked in surprise.
Shadow Dragon sighed happily, "Yeah. I'd never forgot that very day. He was truly the best master I ever learned from."
"Do tell, master," Arcee pleaded.
Shadow Dragon smiled warmly as he began narrating the story of how he met his master and became the apprentice.
Flashback:
1,440 AE, Mystic Realm…
"Long before I became a hero, Commander of Sacred Light Army and even part of Dragon Strike Force, I was a bad boy with issues. Lots of issues especially hating birthday parties and causing troubles at school." Shadow Dragon narrated firmly and calmly. "So, my father sent me to Mount Hope Temple for discipline, meditation, dealing with my anger issues and also controlling my emotion too. Let's just say my first impression wasn't very good."
Due to lots of issues 10-years-old Shadow Dragon with no cutie mark has to deal with, Mystic Tao took him to Mount Hope Temple, hoping his adopted son would improve and get better over the problems. They both followed the monk, who guided and led them to the training hall, where they found Master Zhao Long was practicing his martial arts on training dummy.
"Master Zhao Long, we've brought guests here," The monk reported.
"Good. You may leave," Master Zhao Long said firmly. The monk nodded and left. He stopped his training. Wiping off the sweat with his towel, he approached and meet up with Mystic Tao and his son. He humbly bowed, "Greeting, Mystic Councilpony Tao. Good to see you here."
Mystic Tao returned the bow, "To you as well, Master Zhao Long."
Master Zhao Long looked at Shadow Dragon, who shown to be moody and annoyed. He asked, "So, this is your son?"
Mystic Tao sighed, "Yes, it is. I hope that you can help him. After all, you have gone through the same problems as he has."
"Yes. You did inform me about this," Master Zhao Long said firmly and calmly. He patted his friend's shoulder, "Rest assured, sir. I'll help him with any way I can."
"Good." Mystic Tao nodded in relief. He turned and looked at his adopted son as he sternly instructed, "Behave and listen to your master. I don't want you to cause another trouble here. Understand?"
Shadow Dragon scoffed while crossed his hooves, "Whatever, dad. Not like this can do any better."
Whacked his son's head, Mystic Tao scolded, "Do not be rude to your father. Do as you were told. No argument. And no troubles."
Shadow Dragon nodded reluctantly, "Fine…"
Mystic Tao sighed while shaking his head at his son's behavior. He turned and looked at Master Zhao Long, "I must leave now. Another meeting to attend. Again…"
Mystic Tao turned and left the training room, leaving Master Zhao Long and Shadow Dragon alone. Instead of chatting normally, the master resumed his training with the wooden dummy. Shadow Dragon was annoyed and confused by his doing. He decided to lean against the wall while looking at the master, wondering what kind of instruction he has.
15 minutes has passed, Master Zhao Long hasn't spoken, which irritated and annoyed Shadow Dragon.
"Hey, aren't you gonna tell me to do something or what, pal?" Shadow Dragon asked impatiently.
Still practicing against the wooden dummy, Master Zhao Long grunted, "I could but I won't. Maybe you can tell me about your problem, young one. I would like to know."
Shadow Dragon scoffed, "My problem? It's none of your business. Simple as that."
"I see. I can tell by your tone and attitude. You have lots of issue with the world and ponies for how they treat you. Must be very unpleasant and unfair."
"You have no idea how right you are. I give them what they deserve. They'll think twice of who they're messing with."
"Hmm… Yes. I can tell."
"Hey, this wasn't my fault. They started it, not me. I was just minding my own business."
"Yes. I'm sure it wasn't your fault…"
Shadow Dragon was a bit of annoyed as he asked, "Hey. I don't know what game you're playing, but I'm not enjoying it. You can cut out being nice and sympathize with me."
With a powerful punch against the wooden dummy's center, Master Zhao Long breathed calmly yet firmly. He turned and looked at Shadow Dragon, "I can assure you that I'm not. I have seen this before. I have dealt with them before. And most of the boys have bad temper and out-of-control attitude, they rather punch something than solving the problems."
Shadow Dragon snapped angrily, "Don't act like you know me! You're just a monk, who enjoyed praying, reading books, dancing around and acted like nothing bad has ever happen."
Master Zhao Long remained neutral yet stoic as he answered, "Xiao Long… I know you're angry. You're upset. You're frustrated with how the world treat you and refused to know you especially your feelings. So, you buried them. Your action is to fight back and never let anyone get to you. But you never wanted it. Deep down, you think you're scared, hurt and truthfully, you think you're broken,"
Hearing what Master Zhao Long has said, Shadow Dragon snapped as he armed with a punch, "I AM NOT BROKEN!"
Shadow Dragon swung his punch at Master Zhao Long, who managed to grab the punch in time. He firmly stated, "I didn't say you were broken. I said you think you are. This punch proved it."
Shadow Dragon groaned as he turned around, "Whatever. This is stupid. I'm outta here."
"Do as you wish. I won't stop you. Once you walk out, you will become something that you really hate for the rest of your life." Master Zhao Long said firmly and calmly. Shadow Dragon ignored him as he was about to exit. He continued, "But if you remain here, you and I will do more than just training with martial arts, but also finding inner peace and how to deal with your feelings. It's something you want, right?"
His question surprised Shadow Dragon. He turned and looked at Master Zhao Long. He asked, "I-Is it… Is it hard?"
Master Zhao Long approached as he patted Shadow Dragon's shoulder, "Yes, it will be hardest path for you ever walk. But I assure you that if you put dedication and determination in this training and meditation, you will find more than inner peace and dealing with your feelings, it may turn you into something no one would expect. A brave and noble hero with compassion and sense of justice. That is what you want?"
After carefully thinking about what he has said, Shadow Dragon gave in deep thoughts. He was touched yet inspired. He answered, "Yes. I want that."
Master Zhao Long smiled, "Welcome to your training, young dragon warrior…"
Shadow Dragon narrated, "And so, this begins our master-student relationship. He wasn't kidding. I've spent nearly 5 – 8 years with training of martial arts while studying and working. And it paid off. I owe everything to Master Zhao Long. He's the only master, who is willing to help me, train me and believe in me. Everything has paid off. I became a master, a commander, a hero and member of Dragon Strike Force. And you know the rest."
Flashback Ends…
Shadow Dragon has finished the narration of his story as he and Arcee were walking the hallway. The pink-colored hippogriff was amazed by his story.
"Wow. That's something. I never knew how angry and frustrated you have to deal with your childhood," Arcee sympathized. She sighed, "I thought I had the worst."
Shadow Dragon nodded, "Guess we both have similarity."
"Yeah, we do. Quite the coincidence."
"You know. Master Zhao Long used to say that there is no coincidence. It's fate. He told me that we both were fated to meet, becoming master and apprentice, him helping me with problems and passing his knowledge to me. He entrusted me to pass his teachings to next generation."
"That would be me now. I supposed you're right, master. Do you believe in fate?"
"Not really. But I'm glad that I met you, Arcee."
"Me too, master. I'm honored to be your apprentice."
Shadow Dragon smiled, "Good. Our next training will be making you a good leader of your own team. I was told you led the team well especially helping them and protecting them. I've gotta say. I'm impressed."
Arcee groaned, "Not you too. Master! Please! I told you I'm not!"
"I still do."
"Am not."
"Don't deny it."
"It's the truth!"
"Come on, Arcee."
"Master. Would you please knock it off?!"
Shadow Dragon chuckled playfully yet amusingly, annoying Arcee a lot as she disliked any creature thinking and recommending that she's the best fit to be leader because she doesn't believe in herself as good leader as he is.
For couple of days have passed, Master Kung Fu helped Lance to improve his favorite martial arts such as Black Dragoon Style, Black Serpentine Strike, Rabbit Speed Kicking and Falcon Wing Deflect. He even trained him with new moves such as Phoenix Meteor Kick, Wind Blade, Acrobatic Monkey for mostly dodging the attacks in midair, Tiger Rampage Claws for unleashing ferocious attacks on his enemies, Blind Bat Sense and Mystic Spiritual Sense if blinded, Elephant Endurance for focusing the energy to withstand the attacks, Spider Walk on a very thin rope. Though these new moves proved to be challenging, Lance managed to handle it, thanks to the master, his father and friends' guidance and teaching skills.
Shadow Dragon was training Arcee with both martial arts including Mantis's Blade Strike, Cheetah Speed Strike and even slippery yet swift Eel Evasive Move, as well as practicing on swordfight. He even taught her to use other weapons than just hers. Red Arsenal studied and worked very hard to build and upgrade his and the rest of his allies' weapons, with specific minerals, metals and resources at the blacksmith workshop. At the same time, Steel was cooking on his new recipe for his friends, though he finds them challenging due to his cook ended up in mess or misuse ingredients.
While Lance and his friends have spent three weeks at Mount Hope Temple to improve their skills, Kimiyo continued her search for Soul Gem of Raijin Zeus via listening to some monks' conversation, searching through hallway and rooms, and even using her ghostly power to probe their minds to find it. Unfortunately, she could not find it until she came across to a large door with couple of talisman papers sticking on it. Just as she was about to touch it, she got electrocuted by the paper.
Kimiyo hissed in anger yet pain while readied with her walkie-talkie, "This must be the place. Time to call for reinforcement."
While the Demon Lords have left with Ripper for a mission to perform, Demon Successors were still waiting and minding their own business at their main camp. Hak Xing was reading some books. Drago and Quake were sparring with each other fiercely yet competitively. Voltscar was upgrading and cleaning his battle armor. Avalanche, as usual, eating his own food. Mei Kai, Gusty and Song Wing were making preparation with the use of magical potion, sorcery and army for Ragnarök.
Just as he finished his cleaning, Voltscar heard his walkie-talkie made static noise. He picked it to answer.
Kimiyo reported, "My lord, I have located the Soul Gem."
"Good. Prepare the Shadow Portal. We'll be there soon," Voltscar commanded before turned the walkie-talkie. He turned and looked at kin. He called, "Comrades! Kimiyo has located the Soul Gem!"
Hak Xing smirked darkly, "Good. Drago, Avalanche and Song Wing. Follow me and Voltscar to the battlefield."
"Wow. Seriously?" Song Wing asked in surprise.
"You're bringing Big Baby with us?!" Drago asked in disbelief.
"Better Quake to help Mei Kai and Gusty than Avalanche." Hak Xing sternly explained to Drago, who growled a bit as he admitted that she made a good point. He'd rather not have their preparation mess up by a baby. She turned and looked at Song Wing, "I chose her to join us because this required stealth to get a peculiar ingredient that we need for the Ragnarök."
Song Wing nodded understandingly, "The Mystic Crystal."
Drago hummed thoughtfully, "Oh… I get it now. You want tough guys to attack Mount Hope Temple to not only get the Soul Gem for our acquaintance, but also distraction too. Giving Song Wing the time she needs to get some pieces."
"Correct. You finally use your head than the fist, Drago." Hak Xing remarked sarcastically, which earned Drago's glare.
Voltscar scoffed, "Either way, I'm gonna enjoy tearing that stupid temple of theirs for humiliation. And who knows? Kill their grandmaster and puny brat too."
"Do as you please. But we remember the objective," Hak Xing reminded her kin, who agreed with her. The Shadow Portal appeared. She stated, "It appears that your lieutenant has succeeded to open the portal for us. Let us go now."
"Hak Xing, wait," Mei Kai spoke in concern. Hak Xing turned and looked at her. She continued, "Should we not be concern of our parents and Nezha? I fear they might be-!"
Hak Xing interrupted, "Perish that thought, Mei Kai. Our parents are not so easily defeated. Alone, they may not overcome the number of enemies especially our nemeses. But together, they're powerful enough to finish them."
Mei Kai sighed, "I know, Hak Xing. But they were sent to deal with Black Alpha and Susanoo. They're the most powerful and strongest warriors since the ancient times. Why is Nezha interested in them?"
Gusty croaked a bit, "I have to agree with Mei Kai. What do they have that he's interested of? What plans does he have for them? Would it be good or bad for us? I am certain it would be pleasant."
"I do not know," Hak Xing admitted firmly before her right claw clenched tightly. She continued, "One thing for certain. He cannot be trusted. That is why our family entrusted us with the Dark Prophecy."
"And we'll make it happen. They're gonna wish that they wouldn't make monkey out of us," Drago agreed. Hak Xing nodded firmly. He approached towards his girlfriend. He held her close to him as he gave her a peck on face. He hissed gently, "Hey, babe. Don't worry too much. Tell you what – after this suicide mission, I'll call my stupid old man for checkup, then you and I are gonna make some love at the pool for whole week nights. How about it? Can't resist my good looks?"
Feeling a bit better, Mei Kai sighed while holding his face, "Sure, babe. Make sure you bring me some chocolate and little toys for us to play."
Drago smirked, "I aimed to please, my future wife."
Drago and Mei Kai hissed pleasingly and lovely. They both kissed passionately by lips and having their tongues interacting and wrapping each other excitedly. Though romantically for two demon couples, this actually disgusted most of Demon Successors.
"I used to enjoy their romantic scene, but now it grosses me. A lot." Song Wing remarked dryly, along with most of Demon Successors grumbled in agreement.
"Uh… Why they do that again?" Avalanche asked dumbly.
Hak Xing sighed while shaking her head and facepalming, "I have asked myself with that question many times."
Ripper and the Demon Lords regrouped with Sushi Tsunami and Starkiller, who were leading their forces to quell the rebellion including Black Alpha and Susanoo. They have rounded up most of the rebels across both Equestria and Mystic Realm for some time. They're now at Trotting Terrains, where they believed that both former Mystic Councilponies are located and hidden.
Both Sushi Tsunami and Ripper were standing on top of the hill, where they were using their binoculars to observe and confirmed the enemies' location. Through the use of devices, they have found and located the enemies' base especially Black Alpha and Susanoo were discussing with each other about situation. And at the same time, Starkiller and Demon Lords were organizing and preparing their army for the fight.
"There they are…" Sushi Tsunami said amusingly with sinister laughter, "We've got you now."
Ripper hummed, "I have a hard time to believe that they are the ones we were looking for."
"So do I." Sushi Tsunami agreed dryly, "We have to be aggressive and swift to end this especially trapping them in Soul Gems. The last thing we want is the Demon Lords finding out and interfering our plans. No doubt that they will prepare their counteract plans for us."
Ripper scoffed arrogantly, "Like that's gonna happen. Besides, they're too busy preparing their army. They won't take a hint…"
Unbeknownst to either of them, their conversation has been eavesdropped by Shadow Squids and Shadow Ninjas from the river, transmitting the information to their lords and masters. Demon Lords have heard everything.
Tchang Zu growled in anger, "We should strike before they betray us!"
Dai Gui nodded angrily, "Dai Gui agreed. We must take them down."
"No. We should not," Shendu disagreed. Tchang Zu and Dai Gui turned and glared at him. He continued, "If we want the Dark Prophecy to come true, we need all the Mystic Guardians including the Chosen Ones and their Elements of Harmony in one place, so we can perform the dark ritual spell. To bring the end to all of our enemies."
"Shendu's right. We leave them be until that time." Bai Tza said sinisterly. She smirked slyly, "For now, we assist them whatever they need. We pretend to hear nothing and know nothing."
Almost all of Demon Lords reluctantly agree to the plan, Tso Lan nodded, "Good. Let's be good little Demon Lords to help our friends…" Sushi Tsunami and Ripper returned to their allies. He stood before them as he questioned, "I take it that they are there?"
"Yes. Are your armies ready?" Sushi Tsunami asked.
Demon Lords growled a bit and nodded in agreement. Tso Lan narrowed his firm eyes, "Yes, we are. We shall take care of this."
"Out of curious, where is your master?" Shendu questioned calmly.
Sushi Tsunami glared at the dragon-like Demon Lord as she stated, "My Mystic Emperor has other engagement to deal with. He is visiting Mystic Councilpony of Light for discussion about the future of Mystic Ponies."
Demon Lords were intrigued by the statement. Shendu growled softly, "How interesting. I wonder how it goes for both of them…"
At Hikari Capital City of Sacred Light Land; Mystic Ponies were chitchatting and doing their usual business. Suddenly, they felt the ground was vibrating violently, making them worried and uneasy. They then saw something…
The army of Mystic Emperor was marching straight down the street of Hikari Capital City while escorting and guarding the majestic royal carriage. Seeing the Mystic Emperor's carriage has made many citizens worried and scared. Running to hide inside their houses and shops, they all locked the doors and shutting the windows' curtains as they were all avoiding from witnessing the event or getting into trouble.
The carriage has arrived at Mystic Tao's Antique Shop. Mystic Elite Guard opened the door, allowing Nezha to climb down. He stood before the shop. The shop is opened, revealing Mystic Tao stood before him. Both of them have not spoken while looking at each other with stern, stoic and neutral looks. They remained silence until the Mystic Councilpony of Light gestured 'please come in'. Nezha narrowed his firm glares as he nodded firmly.
Both Mystic Emperor and Mystic Councilpony of Light marched into the antique shop's entrance. Mystic Elite Guards remained outside, guarding the door as they make sure that no one tried to enter and find out of what's going on. What could happen to them both now? What is going on?
Back at Mount Hope Temple's dining room, Master Kung Fu, Lance and his gang were having their lunch while talking about the progress they have made for couple of days. Steel has cooked a new recipe for his friends to try.
Eating Bok Choy rice with fried egg, Arcee hummed enjoyably, "Wow. This taste good. Guess you are a good cook."
"Thanks," Steel said warmly. He turned and glared at Red Arsenal as he asked, "What say you, Red?"
Taking another bite of seaweed dumplings, Red Arsenal scoffed, "Not bad. But not good enough for my taste, Blaze. You're gonna have to do better than that."
Steel groaned while crossed his hooves, "Oh. You sure love to make fun of me, don't you?"
Red Arsenal smirked slyly, "I do. Just to prove my point that I'm better than you."
"Yeah, no. Your cook is always the worst," Steel disagreed, annoying Red Arsenal. He asked, "Don't suppose that you've done a better job for your armor and weapons?"
"I did. But I'm not gonna show you. You will just have to wait and see."
"Jerk. Real jerk."
Master Kung Fu turned and looked at Shadow Dragon. He asked, "Can I assume your training with your apprentice goes well?"
"It is. She learned well and fast with new skills I've taught." Shadow Dragon confirmed calmly. He scoffed while crossed his hooves, "Now the only problem is that she needs to be confident to become a leader."
Arcee spurted her drink. Lance stifled his laughter, "Let me guess. She keeps insisting that she's not good leader. Better her than Heatwave and Sandbar."
"Agreed. Most of our friends believe that Arcee is perfect for leading the team," Shadow Dragon commented.
Arcee groaned, "Why does every creature keep saying that?"
"Because they saw some potential in you. So, do I. And I too believe it as well. Someday, you will become the leader that your friends need. You will lead them into battlefield to stop our enemies," Master Kung Fu said firmly yet calmly, annoying Arcee a bit. Turning his head to Shadow Dragon, despite being blind, he asked, "You wish to know your son's progress?"
"I can only assume that it goes well?' Shadow Dragon asked.
Master Kung Fu nodded, "Indeed. I must say he's quite enthusiastic and eagerness when it comes to learn and train with new moves, despite his little impatient and stubbornness when it comes to listening to the master."
Lance chuckled uneasily and nervously while rubbing on his head's back, "Yeah. Guess I want to advance to next level than stuck on learning the same thing."
"I can imagine of that," Shadow Dragon nodded teasingly, "I used to do that when I was Master Zhao Long's apprentice."
Master Kung Fu scoffed, "Like father, like son. And like master, like apprentice. We truly were fated for the very meeting."
"You knew Master Zhao Long?" Shadow Dragon asked in surprise.
Master Kung Fu nodded, "I do. He was once my apprentice. Before he became a monk, he was quite an arrogant and relentless pony, who desired victory and power when he was a warlord from the Old China. After the betrayal and loss of his family, he has opened his eyes and realized the error of his ways. He abandoned the old ways and joined us. Years of training under my tutelage, he has become a better pony with compassion and nobility. He was made as the Master of Dragon Strike Move due to his strong belief in dragon's courage and spirit. He is indeed like a dragon."
Everyone especially Shadow Dragon was surprise by the story. The spiky pony stated, "I didn't know he has this kind of history."
"From the sound of it, I'd say his history is same as yours, Master Shadow Dragon," Red Arsenal commented.
Arcee hummed thoughtfully, "He's right. I did find them similarity. It's no wonder why Master Zhao Long is willing to train you. Not out of respect or request, but he sympathize and understood your struggles."
"Quite coincidence if you ask me," Steel remarked.
Think carefully of what Steel and Shadow Dragon has said, Arcee smiled, "There is no coincidence. It's fate."
"Really?" Lance asked curiously.
Shadow Dragon smiled, "Yeah. Whether you believe it or not, just be glad to have some be there to help."
Lance nodded in agreement, "Yeah, sure, dad…"
"Say, when are you gonna show your moves, Lance. I would like to see one," Steel commented.
Red Arsenal nodded, "Yeah. I'm curious how strong and fast you've become."
"Maybe later. Who knows? Probably a next fight? Hopefully, not to involve with life-death situation again." Lance suggested. Suddenly, the whole chamber was shaking violent, alerting him and his friends. He remarked, "Or I could be wrong."
Master Kung Fu narrowed his firm yet serious eyes, "We have the intruders."
"DEMONS! IT'S THE CHILDREN OF DEMONS LORDS!"
The ponies panicked in fear as they were running for their lives. Some of temples were on fire. Buildings were falling apart to the ground. Some of flowers were withered, bushes burnt out, most of the plants were stomped and branches were torn apart from the tree at the garden. The monks were battling and fending off couple of Shadow Ninjas, Shadow Razors, Shadow Samurais and Shadow Sumos, who were attacking innocent creatures and destroying everything that stand in their way. Some of the heroic warriors were protecting and escorting the innocents to safety.
Tearing the rooftop from the temple like opening the can, Avalanche was searching for food. Voltscar and Drago, through the use of martial arts, fought and defeated couple of monk warriors. Guarding their rear flank, Hak Xing, used her Gravity Power, levitated and thrown couple of bricks, weapons and equipment at her enemies from the distance.
"C'mon! C'mon! Is that all you've got?!" Drago asked impatiently while punching the unconscious monk. He laughed, "HA! I thought monk warriors are supposed to be badass. All I see is got their ass kicked very badly."
Hak Xing groaned in disgust, "Terrible, Drago. Honestly, terrible."
Avalanche nodded dryly, "Yeah. Yeah. Sounds very bad."
Drago scoffed while crossed his arms, "Yeesh. Everybody has to be pain in the ass."
"Like Drago said, I was expecting more challenge, not disappointment!" Voltscar exclaimed in frustration. He gave a loud roar, "Show yourself, warrior! Voltscar demands it!"
"Hey!" Lance's voice shouted, getting Demon Successors' attention. They all looked up at the temple's entrance, where Lance and his friends stood before them. They all armed themselves in fighting stance while Red Arsenal was nowhere to be seen. He questioned, "Looking for us?"
"Well, well, if it isn't the washout son of Shadow Dragon? Nice to see you," Drago mocked.
Voltscar smirked in amusement, "Indeed. Have you come for another humiliation, boy?"
"As if," Lance disagreed.
"How did you get in here? The temple has a powerful barrier to prevent monsters like you all from entering here. It was made of pure light." Master Kung Fu questioned in disbelief.
Voltscar chuckled sinisterly, "One word – Kimiyo!"
Just before anyone could do anything, a shadowy smoke-like stormed and passed through Lance and his friends, who barely dodged and moved aside. The shadowy smoke flew straight towards her master, where she landed besides him. She then transformed into her solid form – Kimiyo.
"Master, I have returned," Kimiyo reported firmly. She held an indigo-colored Soul Gem of Raijin Zeus before her masters, "And I've brought the gift."
Picking up the gem, Hak Xing looked at it carefully. She smirked proudly, "Well done, Kimiyo. You have made your masters proud."
Kimiyo nodded, "I lived to serve."
Looking at what Hak Xing was holding, Lance asked, "What's she holding? Some kind of gem?"
"Not just any gem, that's the Soul Gem of Raijin Zeus. It holds the soul of ancient Mystic Guardian of Thunder," Master Kung Fu said in fear and concern. Everyone looked at him in shock. He continued, "H-How does she know about this?! It's supposed to be secret that no one must know of!"
Hak Xing smirked slyly, "You can ask your emperor for everything that has transpired from the beginning."
"Nezha?" Shadow Dragon asked in disbelief. Giving some thoughts, he became concern and scared, "H-He couldn't have. He couldn't."
"What is it?" Steel asked in confusion, "What do you mean by that?"
Shadow Dragon sighed, "It's possible that Nezha allied with the Demon Successors and Demon Lords. In exchange for their freedom and alliance, he wants them to get the Soul Gems of Mystic Guardians for him."
Everyone was in deep shock and disbelief. Lance said in shock, "N-No way. He couldn't have!"
"I-It can't be true! What was he thinking?!" Arcee agreed in concern.
"I don't know what he was thinking." Shadow Dragon admitted in concern. Summoning his Darkness Blade, he said seriously, "But now is not the time. We'll deal with that matter later. We've got the enemies to deal with."
Master Kung Fu nodded as he readied with his pole, "Master Shadow Dragon is right. The enemy is standing before us. We must defeat and drive them off."
Hak Xing scoffed, "You can try. My kindred, attack!"
Four of Demon Successors and Kimiyo charged and attacked Lance and his allies. Voltscar engaged a fierce duel with Lance, who used Acrobatic Monkeys for dodging the attacks while striking his Tiger Rampage Claws at him. Master Kung Fu and Kimiyo engaged a fierce duel with their pole and voulge. Drago unleashed his flamethrower at Arcee, who barely dodged the attacks before strike back at him with the use of Cheetah Speed Attack. Shadow Dragon dodged and evaded the throwing junks as he was charging and attacking Hak Xing, who dodged and parried the attacks. Using spear, Steel was dealing with Avalanche, who didn't feel any of attacks while swinging his claw at him but only missed the attacks.
Hiding behind the watchtower's rooftop, Song Wing has witnessed her cousins battling the enemies of the kindred. Now this is her chance to make her move. Flapped her wings hard, she was flying straight to the Mystic Crystal Temple at once.
As Lance and his team continued battling with the Demon Successors, the Shadow Army jumped and ambushed them. The heroes fended the enemy troops while still parrying the attacks against their enemies. They were about to get overwhelmed and defeated. Luckily, some warrior monks came to drag them away before engaged a fight with them.
Despite the dark army being dragged away, the Demon Successors are still strong and deadly for the heroes to face especially they're armed with both elemental powers and makeshift weapons to fight them. Lance and his team can do is dodged and parry the attacks until couple of energy blasts hit the enemies. The heroes looked back and found Red Arsenal, armed with new and improved Arsenal Cannon, stood before them. He and some blacksmiths were carrying the bags of weapons.
"You're late, dumbass!" Steel called out in frustration.
"I like to make an entrance," Red Arsenal remarked with a scoff. He held the bag, "Special delivery! New weapons for you all to use! Come and get it!"
Lance and his team turned to Red Arsenal and blacksmiths, who passed the newly upgraded weapons for the heroes. Lance has his new upgraded Oblivion Dragon Blade and Oathkeeper Blossom Blade. Shadow Dragon is now armed with a new upgraded sword, which its black-colored blade is now longer yet sharper with Chinese characters embedded on it, demonically crimson-golden colored handler-like is made of dragon scales is called Dragoon Darkness Sword. Steel Blaze is now armed with new Armored Chakram with blazing spikes-like. Arcee is now armed with her White Dragon Sword and Black Tiger Wakizashi. Surprisingly, Master Kung Fu only held his new yet upgraded Dragoon Pole for the fight.
Looking at his swords, Lance hummed thoughtfully, "Way to go, Red. Like the new looks."
Steel scoffed, "Yeah. They do look good and sharped."
"Aim to please our friends," Red Arsenal remarked cockily as he armed with new red-golden colored bow and weaponized arrows. He smirked, "Time for test drive."
"You must remember this, young one. What makes warrior strong is not the weapon," Master Kung Fu said firmly as he spun his pole around him before make his fighting stance, "But the warrior holding the weapon."
Almost everyone except Shadow Dragon, Red Arsenal, Arcee and even Hak Xing was confused by Master Kung Fu's cryptic wisdom.
"That doesn't make any sense," Drago remarked.
Steel scoffed, "Tell me about it. I mean if ain't the weapon make us strong, so why say holding the weapon? Lance?"
Lancer shrugged, "Don't look at me. I mostly roll with it and get in the program."
"He means use everything you've got to fight the enemy, not just your own weapon," Shadow Dragon said firmly while in fighting stance. He smirked confidently, "I should know it because Master Zhao Long said the same thing to me."
"Yeesh. Just said plainly, not give some stupid poetic and riddles. It gives me a serious headache," Drago complained.
Voltscar growled, "Agreed. This is why I prefer fighting over words. Wisdom and strategies mean nothing to gain victory."
Hak Xing gave a dope slap on both Drago and Voltscar's heads. She chastised, "Respect them, you imbeciles! Without the knowledge, you'd be some mindless brutes with no direction and common sense. Now, deal with them!"
Drago grumbled while rubbing his head, "Yeah. Yeah. On it."
"Rest assured, Hak Xing. Our enemies will be obliterated," Voltscar declared. He then realized something, "I cannot believe I just said something smart."
Hak Xing smirked slyly and amusingly as she remarked, "Yes. Yes, you did. Now obliterate them!"
Demon Successors charged and attacked Lance and his team. Thanks to newly upgraded weapons, the heroes have the chance to fight back.
Just as Arcee was about to use her new upgraded swords, Drago rammed her against the wall hard, causing her to drop them down. He then threw her aside. He charged and attacked her relentlessly and fiercely. Though he has proven himself strong and fast for her, Arcee was able to parry the attacks with the use of Mantis Blade Strike before struck her Rabbit Speed Kick at him by chest for few times. She the jumped and kicked at his face but grabbed by claw. Armed with his Demon Fiery Fists, the dragon demon struck a punch against her off. He then unleashed his Demon Dragon Flame at the pink-colored hippogriff, who quickly dodged by rolling away from the attacks. Managed to pick up her White Dragon Sword and Black Tiger Wakizashi, she spun the sword to deflect the attacks before throwing a Japanese Dagger at him, prompting to grab it. She charged to kick him off before getting the dagger as she attacked him swiftly and firmly through the use of Cheetah Speed Attack. He firmly blocked them as he struck punches back at him. Both of them have been fighting with each other for many rounds. He unleashed his powerful Demon Dragon Flame at her, she dodged aside at once. She jumped and slammed her swords at him. He flailed his tail at her off. He then charged and struck his claws at her, prompting him to parry them off.
"You're getting better, little birdie. But not good enough," Drago flirted sarcastically, "Not good as your old man."
Parrying the attacks off, Arcee grunted in frustration, "I don't need to be good as my ex-father. I just have to be better than him in everything. Bet you could never reach your dragon daddy's level."
Angered by insult, Drago kicked her off. He growled, "Pinky birdie, you've just hit the Berserk Button. Let me show you why I am not my father! You didn't hear me say that to you, did you?"
"Well, we do share in common. We are not our fathers." Arcee admitted firmly while readied with her swords, "But there is one thing that sets us different. I never follow my father's clawstep while you do. Following your daddy's footstep, which you failed miserably."
Drago became annoyed, "Okay, babe. Now you're asking for pain!"
Drago roared angrily as he charged and continued his relentless attacks on Arcee, who parried the attacks while fighting back.
Hak Xing levitated couple of stones and rooftop to throw right at him. The warrior pony swiftly and quickly dodged them while charging straight at her. Shadow Dragon firmly attacked the Demon Successor of Moon, who swiftly yet quickly evaded his attacks while firing her Dark Beam at him to back off. She continued firing her beam at him, forcing him to block and deflect the blasts. He summoned and fired his Darkness Sphere at her. She summoned Dark Magic Barrier to block the attacks briefly before levitated a pillar to drop on him. Luckily, he quickly turned and cut in two. He then unleashed and fired his Chaos Hyper Blast at her. She returned fire her Night Beam at the attacks. It exploded. Both of them are now facing each other.
Hak Xing scoffed as she armed with her Blackish Blades, "It's quite disappointed that you used your mastery of darkness to serve the light. The True Darkness always serve itself for its deep desire, never anyone."
"That's where you're wrong," Shadow Dragon disagreed as his Dragoon Darkness Sword glowed darkly in crimson-colored, activating Nightmare Rage. His eyes glowed in dark red. He smirked, "Darkness is never about serving, it's helping with others to balance and protect each other. That is True Darkness. Yours is corruption."
Hak Xing narrowed her eyes as she stated, "We shall see. When I'm through with you, I'm coming after my sister."
"You will try," Shadow Dragon challenged.
Hak Xing dashed in as she engaged her fierce Blackish Blades against Shadow Dragon, who fiercely parried the attacks for couple of rounds. He then unleashed powerful crimson-colored glowing slashes at her. She summoned Dark Barrier to block it, though she received some cuts on her shoulders, waist, legs and even cheek. The attacks not only wounded her, but also drained her energy. She growled before firing her Dark Magic Blast to blast at him, whom spun to deflect it. They both resumed their duel.
Avalanche clapped happily while looking down on Red Arsenal and Steel Blaze, who are armed with their new upgraded weapons.
"Think we can take him down?" Steel asked in tone of bit nervous.
"Don't tell me you're scared?" Red Arsenal teased while readied with his bow and arrow.
Steel was annoyed to remark, "Don't tempt me, Red. You wouldn't wanna get my bad side."
"Try and kick the big baby."
"Yeesh, dude. That's brutal. Seriously."
"I was talking about a demon, dumbass."
"Okay. That's different. Seriously, why did they call him the baby?" Steel asked in confusion.
Before Red Arsenal could answer, he looked up and found Avalanche jumped as he was about to body slam on him and his friend. They all barely dodged aside from his large size before they slammed against the wall. Just as they got up, they found the giant mountain demon giggled happily as he got up.
"That's why," Red Arsenal remarked sarcastically. He continued, "He may be over 1,000 years old, but he is still a baby."
Steel sighed, "Yeah. I can see that. Got a plan?"
"Yeah. Don't get body slammed. Don't get grabbed by his plants. Don't get rolled up. Don't get a smack. Don't get eaten."
"Geez. Thanks for the advice."
Avalanche giggled happily as he rolled himself straight at Steel and Red Arsenal. They both panicked and ran for their lives around the garden. And at the same time, they tried to shoot their Blazing Glory Blasts and Explosive Arrows at him. This however did not affect him, other than tickling him. He then tried to grab them. They both barely dodged and evaded his grab while firing back at him.
Master Kung Fu and Kimiyo were swinging and slamming their Dragoon Pole and voulge against each other for couple of rounds. Through the use of Cheetah Speed Strike, Rabbit Speed Kick and Blaze Dragoon Style, the grandmaster firmly strikes at the shadowy lieutenant, who parried the attacks with her Shadowy Blasts and Shadow Slashes at him. Both of them were equally matched with each other. They then have a clash for the moment.
"Fighting the Grandmaster of Martial Arts? This is certainly a surprise and amusing. I'm gonna enjoy it." Kimiyo mocked.
Master Kung Fu scoffed, "The wise seeks to fight for justice and peace, only a wicked would seek fighting for mere entertainment."
"Spare me with poetic nonsense. I can see why Young Master Voltscar hates it," Kimiyo remarked with a scoff.
Master Kung Fu smirked calmly, "Wisdom is powerful than brute strength. Care to try and face the master?"
Kimiyo yelled out as she charged and engaged a fierce fight with Master Kung Fu, who evaded her strikes of the voulge, thanks to his Mantis Blade Strike to block it and using Tiger Rampage Claws to strike back against her, which surprise her to go defensive for few rounds until he focused his energy on his hoof before struck Gorilla Fist at her off. They both continued their fight.
Lance and Voltscar were facing at each other while armed themselves with their swords. The young Pegasus remained firm and cautious while Voltscar snorted cockily yet arrogantly about facing each other.
"You think you can beat me this time, puny?" Voltscar taunted with chuckles.
Lance narrowed his firm eyes as he remarked, "I don't think I can. I know I can. I will beat you."
Voltscar amusingly as he held tightly on his Lightning Sword, "We shall see. Prepare yourself!"
Voltscar roared wildly as he charged and relentlessly attacked Lance, who used both Acrobatic Monkey and Cheetah Speed, to dodge and evade his lightning sword attack-like for couple of rounds. This irritated him a lot, prompting him to unleash Lightning Strike. This alerted the Pegasus to use his upgraded Dual Blades to block the attacks for the moment. Though he received painful shocking, he tried to move out while redirecting the Lightning Strike attack at the demon, who now suddenly felt the electrical shock. Just as two of them came close, the lightning caused a powerful explosion to throw them off aside. Just as they were recovering, the demon samurai fired his Lightning Arrows at the black-colored Pegasus, who barely blocked the shots until one of them hit on his upper shoulder. Seeing him weakened, Voltscar charged and swung his newly Bolt Naginta at Lance, who is still weakened and just took out the arrow, making him to yell in pain. At the last moment, he quickly used his swords to block the bladed weapon. It caused him some electrical pain, allowing the Bolt Naginta slowly lowered down and about to cut on his head.
Voltscar smirked, "Looks like you're about to lose again."
Lance grunted in pain, "Think again. Try my new move – Phoenix Meteor Kick, jackass!"
Just before Voltscar could do anything, Lance's back hooves glowed and blazed in flames. Using his Elephant Endurance to push the Thunder Demon Successor's weapon up, he quickly kicked his Phoenix Meteor Kick at him, throwing straight against the wall. Just as he recovered, he got struck by Lance's ferocious yet swift attacks of Black Dragoon Style for couple of rounds until he struck his powerful punch at his head. Though he received painful injuries especially on his head, Voltscar is still conscious as he grabbed and punched him to the ground. Using his Thunder Fists, he ferociously attacked Lance, who used both Black Dragoon Style and Black Serpentine Strike to parry the attacks for some rounds until they punched each other's faces, throwing them far away from each other.
Just as Lance was recovering from the fight, Master Kung Fu got thrown to his back. They were now surrounded by Voltscar and Kimiyo. Both of them armed with their weapons, energized with both shadowy and lightning energy.
"You okay?" Lance asked.
Master Kung Fu nodded, "I'll be fine, young one. They can't take me out that easily."
"You have the plan, master?"
"Yeah. Remember Zen Slash and Wind Blade?"
"Yeah?"
"We'll use those moves, combined together with Black Dragoon Style and Black Serpentine Strike to defeat them. Think you can handle it?"
"Of course, I can. I learned from the best."
Master Kung Fu smirked confidently, "Don't disappoint me, boy."
Voltscar and Kimiyo charged as they were about to strike down on Master Kung Fu and Lance. They both quickly switch places to engaged the opponents.
Lance dashed straight at Kimiyo, who quickly parry his attacks for couple of rounds. Just as they were swinging their weapons at each other, the shadowy demon summoned and fire her Shadow Blast to push him back. Summoning Shadow Clones, they charged and attacked him. Using his Acrobatic Monkey and Tiger Rampage Claws, he was agile enough to evade the attacks while ferociously strike back and vanquish the clones, leaving one standing. He dashed and attacked her. She swiftly and quickly blocked the attacks before firing her Shadowy Curse Beam away.
Instead of fighting head on, Master Kung Fu remained calm and firm as he gestured Voltscar to attack him. The Demon Successor of Thunder did respond by swinging and slamming his Bolt Naginta at him but only missed due to the blind master used both Acrobatic Monkey and Rabbit Speed to evade them. Both exhausted yet frustrated, the demon unleashed his Thunderstorm at the master, who quickly use his pole to flip the shield, which block and deflect the beam straight back at him. Sensing his opponent injured, he dashed in to take a chance – hitting him with Black Dragon Style and Tiger Rampage Claws, further injuring him for couple of rounds. Voltscar managed to fire his Lightning Strike to zap him back, allowing him to recover.
Both Master Kung Fu and Lance got pushed and slammed on each other. Just as they recovered, Voltscar and Kimiyo charged straight at them. Just as they were about to finish them both, the master and apprentice unleashed their Zen Slash and Wind Blade, blowing them away before dashed and attacked them at high speed. They then grabbed their opponents before throwing them at each other. Just before Voltscar and Kimiyo could react, Master Kung Fu and Lance attacked them with their Black Dragoon Style and Black Serpentine Strike. They fiercely punched and kicked at them for couple of rounds, bruising their muscles, breaking bones and especially blowing a punch at their heads. Both Voltscar and Kimiyo fell to the ground.
Master Kung Fu and Lance panted heavily, exhausting from using their strength and speed to defeat their opponents.
"Feeling better?" Master Kung Fu questioned.
Lance smirked cockily, "You have no idea."
Sensing Voltscar and his lieutenant getting up, Master Kung Fu readied with his Dragon Pole, "Prepare for the next fight."
Lance nodded, "Got it, master."
Lance and his friends continued battling with Demon Successors. Drago spotted a shadowy figure flying yet hiding within the clouds. He found injured Song Wing was flying straight to them while holding the sack.
Drago called, "Hey! She's coming here fast! She got them!"
"Excellent. We shall leave now," Hak Xing said proudly. Her glowed in red, she contacted her beloved one, "Voltscar! Kimiyo! Now!"
Hearing that, Voltscar protested, "No! I refused to leave without-!"
Hak Xing interrupted, "That's an order! We have them!"
Kimiyo nodded firmly, "At once!"
Kimiyo dodged the attack of Lance's sword. She summoned a large portal for her and her allies to make dash escape.
Glaring at her enemies, Hak Xing smirked slyly, "You have lost, fools. The Age of Mystic Ponies is coming to the end. And there is nothing you can do!"
Voltscar growled, "I will have my vengeance! I promise you, Lance Justicestrike!"
Just before Lance and his friends could stop them, both Hak Xing and Voltscar have already escaped through the portal. It then closed down. This confused and concern almost everyone else.
"What was that about?" Lance asked in concern.
Master Kung Fu was also concerned, "I do not know. But if what they say is true, I fear a great disaster is upon both Mystic and Equestria. There is no doubt. And there's another matter we should be concern of."
"Nezha… Damn him." Shadow Dragon said seriously with hint of anger, "First, he used Tempest, Bella and Cozy to spy on us. Next, he turned the Mystic Kingdom into some kind of military empire for war and supremacy. Then, he messed up the alliance with Equestria and working with Demon Lords. And now, he is collecting and gathering all Soul Gems of Mystic Guardians. What is he really up to now?"
"Probably not good. We should make necessary preparation, master," Arcee suggested.
Shadow Dragon hummed thoughtfully, "Yes. You're right. He might turn on us. He might destroy us before dealing with Dark Mystic Ponies. No telling how far he would go."
"Maybe we should put that on another time. For now, we party for our win especially Lance," Steel said casually.
Red Arsenal was annoyed as he questioned, "Really? Is the party all you can think of?"
"Hey. It's called 'rest and relaxation'." Steel scolded, "Besides, we're beat after fighting those monsters. We need some serious refreshment. Then, we'll talk about the plan next day."
Red Arsenal was about to argue but gave some thoughts, "Y-You were right. I cannot believe I've said that."
Steel smirked casually as he held his hoof around Red Arsenal's shoulder, "Being serious doesn't always come up with plans. Even tough and friendly guy like me can do that. Got it memorized?"
Red Arsenal groaned, "Rub it in, why don't you?"
Everyone laughed at Red Arsenal's embarrassment to praise Steel Blaze.
Master Kung Fu smiled, "Either way, well done, Lance. You have improved your martial arts. I hope that you continue to train and discipline yourself, regardless of your recent victories. There will always some strong and powerful opponents for you to face."
Lance smirked confidently, "I will, master."
Shadow Dragon approached and patted his son's head, "That's a spirit, kiddo. I think it's time we go home."
Lance agreed, "Yeah."
On the next day, Lance and his team have said their goodbyes to Master Kung Fu, who humbly bowed and said goodbye to them as well. Using the Mystic Portal, they all returned to the Castle of Friendship, where they found their family and friends including Dragon Kick, Mighty Heart, Jade Adventure and Andrew Thief have gathered and chatting at the hall.
However, just as they were about to call, Lance and his friends noticed something off. They found the family and friends turned and looked at them. They were shown concern yet grim and sorrow like something bad has happened.
"I-Is something wrong? What happened?" Shadow Dragon asked in concern. Almost everyone chattered and insisted one of them to speak with him. He was getting impatient as he demanded, "Can someone tell me what's going on?!"
Lance nodded, "Yeah. From the looks of this, it's not good news."
None of them, not even Shadow Dragon's, dare to speak. Twilight sighed in frustration yet sorrow as she decided to speak. She spoke with tears slowly formed on her eyes, "Shadow Dragon… Y-Your father… Mr. Tao… H-He… He…"
Shadow Dragon became concern as he demanded, "What?! What is it?! What happened to my father?!"
Tears flowing down the cheek, Twilight spoke sadly yet guilty, "He's gone. He's really gone. Y-Your father passed away…"
Shadow Dragon was deeply shocked and hurt yet disbelieved of what he has just heard. His heart was shattered. His mind was filled with confusion and anger. He has no idea what to respond except to fell down on his hooves. He cried out loud in pain and sorrow while crying in tears. Twilight approached and gave her husband a comfort hug he needs, followed by Lance, Spike and Nyx. The rest of their friends and family lowered down their heads in silent.
Mystic Tao has passed on…
Trotting Terrains is now filled with many corpses and injuries from both sides, camps and artilleries being destroyed, and even blazing flames on forest trees and grass. Eight Demon Lords panted in exhaustion as they were all badly injured. They were glaring at the defeated Black Alpha and Susanoo, who suffered more injuries and cuts than the Demon Lords.
The injured Sushi Tsunami and Ripper approached to both Black Alpha and Susanoo, who raised their heads to glare at them. Before they could speak, two Ultimate Warriors raised up their Soul Gems, firing its powerful prism beam on them. Both former Mystic Councilponies got dragged and absorbed into the gems at once.
Ripper chuckled amusingly, "Oh yes! Oh yes! We have them!"
"Yes. Only one more to go," Sushi Tsunami said sinisterly while looking at the Soul Gems.
"Yeah. When do you think we can get them?"
"Soon, Ripper, very soon. Cozy Glow and Bella better not screw their missions. The time is upon us."
"So, what we do with them?"
"Let our Mystic Emperor decide. He thinks the Demon Lords, Tirek and Chrysalis might have some use to him."
Overhearing what Sushi Tsunami and Ripper have said, Demon Lords looked at each other as they secretly smirked sinisterly and evilly. Everything is falling in places. Dark Prophecy of Ragnarök is about to unveil.
END?
Review and Suggest…
Main Casts:
Jesse McCartney: Lance Justicestrike
Donnie Yen: Master Kung Fu
Matt Lanter: Shadow Dragon
Ashley Eckstein: Arcee
David Sobolov: Voltscar
Elizabeth Grullon: Kimiyo
Minor Casts:
Crispin Freeman: Red Arsenal
Quinton Flynn: Steel Blaze
Grey Griffin: Sushi Tsunami
Alec Newman: Ripper
Vanessa Marshall: Hak Xing
Michael Rosenbaum: Drago
Hynden Walch: Mei Kai
Kevin Michael Richardson: Quake
Cree Summer: Song Wing
Charlie Schlatter: Gusty
Jeff Bennett: Avalanche
Matthew Mercer: Tso Lan
James Sie: Shendu
Clancy Brown: Tchang Zu
Mona Marshall: Bai Tza, Po Kong
Frank Welker: Dai Gui
Corey Burton: Xiao Fung
André Sogliuzzo: Hsi Wu
Cameo:
Tara Strong: Twilight Sparkle
Kira Tozer: Nyx Midnight
Hayden Panettiere: Shiroi Bai
Sab Shimono: Mystic Tao
Andy Lau: Master Zhao Long
Matt Cowlrick: Rockhoof
Katrina Salisbury: Yona
Stephanie Sheh: Ciel
Robbie Daymond: Rak