//------------------------------//
// The Strike 
// Story: Even Harmony has an Opposite 
// by Optimistic Pessimist 
//------------------------------//

	

The Strike




Twilight smiled, but just then a large explosion resounded throughout the castle. Princess Celestia turned her head in shock. “THE ELEMENTS!” Immediately they made off for the tower that held the Elements of Harmony. They arrived in time to see a black cloud fly off, leaving a large hole in the safe and an empty box. They all stared in disbelief. “GUYS! Look!” Pinkie Pie pointed a little off to the side. Everyone turned their head. On the floor there was a light gray scroll, bound with a blood red ribbon. Twilight went over and opened it.

You may have seen me leave with your Elements of Harmony. You may also be wondering why I would do as such. The claim of the pink one seemed unreal. The six ponies that claim to be the Elements of Harmony just didn’t fit. You are... weak, and probably unfitting of your title. I have taken the six Elements and returned them to where I believe they truly belong, The Temple of Balance. If you wish to find your precious Elements, pass the Trials of the Temple. And maybe then, I’ll see you as a worthy adversary.

When Twilight finished the message, it ignited itself in a burst of black fire. Twilight turned to Princess Celestia. She was pacing back and forth. Twilight looked at the Princess anxiously. “You know where this Temple of Balance is?” The Princess stopped and turned to Twilight. “Yes, I do, but the problem is not getting through the Temple. That I could trust you with easily. The trouble is getting to the Temple and back.” Twilight looked confused. “Why is that?” Celestia looked at her. “It is located at the very heart of the Everfree forest. Even further then the first palace me and my sister had.” 


Futtershy had trouble comprehending this speech until she heard Everfree Forest. Twilight looked over to her. “Come on Fluttershy, there’s no need to panic. We’re all going together.” Princess Celestia nodded. “I will call for my fastest Guards to bring you to the edge of the Everfree. With the skys like this, they cannot go any further.” Twilight nodded. “Thank you Princess, we won’t let you down!” And with that, Twilight and the rest raced off to meet the Pegasi.