//------------------------------// // Chapter 7: Ice, Calamity and Drunks // Story: Road to the End // by JusSonic //------------------------------// Chapter 7: Ice, Calamity and Drunks The scene now opens with Twilight's group in a new area within the End of Equestria, and it is....COLD! The gang's cart was having the MechBull trying to slowly cross a few snowy plains within an extraordinary continent with cold weather that was filled with raging winds. And they were all just trying to not catch a flu. "AAAAAAACHOOOOO," Tough Apple suddenly went ahead to let off a big sneeze, before rubbing his runny nose. "Sniff...remind me again WHY, we're goin' through a place colder than de Cake's Extra Chilly Ice Cream Cakes?" The stallion asked from feeling himself getting a chill here. "We're here to find another ingredient." Ben reminded his friend of why they are within such a cold place. "In the middle of a FROZEN WASTELAND," Phobos snapped off in finding that this place was the WORST place to find any ingredients while freezing their tails off. "Everypony listen, this area we're entering is called Ice Limbo." Twilight spoke in letting her friends know that they are entering a place that could be described from her map as...the limbo of ice from the underworld, possibly. "Wh-wha...why is it called that mommy," Nyx asked her mother of why this place was even called by such a name. "It's cause it's as cold as any area with cold weather we've been in Equestria, and it gets colder as we get closer into its reign." Twilight spoke in explaining the first detail bunch about this area to everyone. "The northern continent of extraordinary cold weather filled with raging winds and ferocious beasts. It's said the inner caves of the area were used by the 'Nobles' of the past to preserve food, which is what now makes up the 'Snow Window', which, when melted by the geo-thermal vents deep below Ice Limbo, produces a soup from a mixture of the contain ingredients." From that explanation, it was a wonder of a tale for the rest of the group. "An-an-an....we-we-we're searching for 'what' ingredient again?" Spike spoke from rubbing his shoulders, feeling himself getting extra chilly here. "The Colored Icicle; It's another ingredient that we need and this place has it." Twilight issued the name of their target and that it can only be found somewhere in this area. "Well can't we keep ourselves warmer? Mah fur's turning 'ta icicles." Tough insisted from noticing his fur becoming like icicles dangling. "I'm so cold," stated Phobos. "That my scales are coming off! "I think you're overreacting Phobos." Spike said, rolling his eyes. "No really!" Phobos shouted. "I'm not that much of a cold blooded person you know?!” "Hay, how's about a Warm Spell to keep us not so cold here," Bocolix insisted on what the magic users can do to help keep Twilight and the rest warm from the cold. "Worth a try, if it helps, let's do it." Dumbledore shrug off in thinking that if a spell like that keeps them warm, then it's better than freezing to death or they'll answer to Boris if Twilight ever perished by such means. Soon the Enforcers used their horns together that made the area around the group's cart, MechBull, all of them get in a nice sparkling warm glow that helped keep the group warm. "Chu..." Rabbitchu sighed with relief while Justin made another cow noise in feeling its gears not freezing up inside. "Wow, thanks you two; that helps a lot." Nyx smiled to thank these guys for being so thoughtful. "I'll say, why didn't we try that before?" Phobos responded off in looking to Twilight & Ben, why didn't those two use their magic to help? "To be prepared for any ferocious beast that live in this area. We need to conserve some strength, but still, thanks for the warmth you guys." Ben responded in both answering, but thanked the two new Alicorns for being so concern to make sure those of them freezing wouldn't get sick afterwards, they don't want that. "Our pleasure," The Enforcers responded in being all too happy to aid whenever they can...without messing up. "I'm concerned." Spike said as he warms himself up. "We haven't dealt with those Demon Lords since the fight with the Hydra." "Right, they must be waiting to ambush here or elsewhere." Phobos remarks in agreement. "Maybe we..." "Uh oh; watch it!" Twilight exclaims as several ram-like creatures appears, attacking Justin, "Goat Rammers!" Justin of course manages to ram through them quickly a bit. Sometimes, they have to deal with a mischievous rabbit or two but the gang manages to knock them right off. "I wonder if that old pony would show up soon." Dumbledore mumbles a bit while looking around. "Oh? You mean me, right?" Tao ask as he suddenly appears, making everyone yelps a bit in alarm. "Gah; I hate it when you do that!" Bocolix exclaims in alarm, making Tao chuckles a bit. "That's me; Always on top. So what have you been doing, coming all the way out here?" "Well, we got our task done in Heavy Drop. Some goblin tricked the Grundles into thinking we were trying to destroy them." Twilight explains to Tao, who looks at this in pretend surprise. "Luckily, we were able to overcome that misunderstanding and got the next ingredient. We are here for the Colored Icicle." "Ah, in that case, I wish you well on your journey." Tao said, preparing to leave much to the group's surprise. "Wait. Aren't you going to give us some advice or something?" Nyx ask the old pony in concern. "Just this: try to stay warm." "Right; and we turn around, you would be gone." Ben said as he and the group turns for a moment then turns to see that Tao is now gone. "How does he do that?" Just then a familiar voice spoke up, "Defeat the Guardian. Get his ring." The group pauses, obvious it's another riddle. Koga barks a bit, "Arf arf." "Looks like another riddle." Twilight said thoughtfully. "That means we have to deal with another Guardian beast." And thus, the journey continues onward. ----------------- After much other events going further through the frozen reign, did the traveling group make it to another spot within the Ice Limbo. There was one giant size cave opening that the group was just outside of. And lucky thing too, cause the air and winds felt like it was dropping below zero degrees to the point....they may as well be in suspended animation or something. "There it is! If we go through that, we'll find the ingredient we're seeking here there." Twilight pointed to her friends in seeing the spot they can go into to find what they want. "Good cause....brrr....it feels like it's gotten colder than last time!" Tough Apple spoke from rubbing his shoulders together in feeling himself get cold again. "It's like mommy said, the further in we go in this place, the colder it gets." Nyx spoke from recalling what her mother said, this Ice Limbo is so cold, it's hard to even get pass the outer entry then to get through the rest that becomes harder to bear. "Can't we-we-we...aaaaachoo! Just use more magic to warm us up?" Phobos spoke before he sneezed from feeling the weather getting to him. "We've been trying, but it's not enough." Bocolix issued off to the Moon Dragon that the magic users can't use their magic around them to keep them warm any more than they are now. "Yeah, it's colder than our magic could do." Dumbledore nods in noticing that the magic that the two have around the group is the best it's at, the weather is just too cold to have their magic keep them warm. "Well let's just we can get a little more warmth by getting out of the blistering cold winds." Spike issued in seeing that if they can get out of the breezing winds, that can be the most helpful, right? "Wait a second. You guys hear that? It sounds like...giant footsteps." Ben spoke from suddenly overhearing pass the loud winds and all other voices to hear...something approaching them. Question was...what was it? The answer was soon to be answered when something within the dark cave came into the lift from its piercing red-orange eyes. The creature from within the cave entry the gang was near, soon saw what was a giant made of ice with an icy crown, beard and only red-orange eyes with a star mark yellow opal, seem physically build with bulk arms and feet, "GRUUUAARRRRRUUGGHHH!" This towering behemoth of ice waved out its arms with five sharp fingers, to anyone, this was the Guardian Ice Giant within the Ice Limbo; Egola. "WHAT IS THAT!?" Phobos cried out in shock to see something has now arrived here. "An Ice Giant," Spike exclaimed in seeing that this creature was made of ice and alive too. "That's the mighty giant made of ice within the frozen reign, Egola!" Twilight issued off to warn the others of what sorta new foe they have to face now. "It must be what the voice warned us about!" "Figures, if it's not something natural, it's gotta be more weird stuff we have 'ta face!" Tough groans in seeing that from wasps, plants, cannibals, witches and Demons, now ice giants, what else? "URRUUARRRRUGHHH," Suddenly, the gang are overshadowed when Egola towering over their cart. "Stoompfruvhmm...." Then without warning, the ice giant stomped its left foot across a few inches away from the gang, but the force overcollapsed them "Sword Beam!" Ben used his Master Sword to fire a beam that imploded that broke off...only chunks of ice from the ice giant's wrist. "What! That barely looked like I chip its tooth!" The stallion responded in shock to believe that move didn't do much to help out. Spike and Phobos approached to melt the giant made of ice, but from their flames trying to melt the titan, its structure was instead refrozen; how? "Everypony listen! This giant's power increases in areas covered in ice. It's said that while Egola is very strong in brute force and in power, it's a little slow. To defeat such a foe, we have to completely shatter it to pieces so it won't be able to get up again." Twilight shouted out in trying to explain this to her friends that Egola's power comes from the coldness of their frozen area that surrounds them and that from such strengths, the group need to execute the only weakness that comes to mind when facing a creature made entirely of ice. "Any suggestions if fire spells ain't cutting it?" Bocolix asked off when he was flying in the air for a bit. "I got nothing on me, so how do we...yikes!" Dumbledore was about to answer his pal, only to yelp in surprise. Soon the Enforcers got a straight jab punch that plowed them right into the wall made of ice that brought almost the structure down on the others. "They've been hit!" Nyx exclaimed from transforming into her Battle Form to check on the Enforcers. "MWUURRAUGHH...." Justin tried to ram at the bottom ice giant's feet, but it barely made Egola flinched from the effort. Then Egola waved out its hands to unleash a strong gale blizzard wind that was freezing up the surroundings. "It's trying to freeze us! Like it wasn't cold enough," Phobos remarked to complain in seeing his tail was getting coated in ice. "Everyone, try to...gagh!" Twilight flew over a few inches off the ground to brush pass the wind, only to get shadowed....by a giant hand of ice that smashed against the Alicorn princess's area. "Twilight," Ben cried out in seeing that his love was in trouble. Soon the gang sees Twilight caught in the grasp of Egola's right hand as she felt unable to escape the clutches of the ice giant. Then in the next moment, Egola soon threw Twilight out across the area of ice, Ben leaped up to catch his love, but he then pushed them both to smashed into the ground, creating an ice crater. "EAT HEADBUTT!" Phobos tried to launch himself to deliver a head butt attack, but the ice giant smashed his noggin with a left fist. "Guuagh..../Poowwfruvhmmm..." That tactic knocked the moon dragon to smash against the ground, but from another view, it showed Egola's left fist a tiny bit cracked. "Oh boy, we so need a plan here!" Spike spoke in seeing things were not going so well around with them. "NOOOOOO," Suddenly, Tough was heard screaming as he was checking their cart with a worried face. "Gaugh, 'dat last attack caused me to lose Joe, where is he? Where," The stallion was looking for his banjo, it was missing, what happened after that last attack knock them over. "Over there!" Nyx pointed in spotting what was a lonesome banjo on the ground.... "Stompvhmm...." But then Egola's right giant ice foot stomped right near that spot, and when it lifted, the instrument was broken to bits. "Joe....Jo...." Tough Apple slowly spoke in almost gasping at what he seen until... "RRRRRARRRRUGHHH," Tough lost it and went blind raging in there to fight the ice giant. "Wait Tough, it's too dangerous!" Spike cried out to stop his friend from doing something foolish, too late for that. "URRARRRRRRUGHHH," Egola saw Tough approaching before lifting up it's right fist. "Powwfruvhmmm...." A direct impact was smashed where Tough Apple was running at him from. But look to behold in what everyone saw in disbelief, Tough stopped the giant ice behemoth's fist from hurting him and from letting it go back to its user. "Yew've mess wit' us, hurt us, an’ no' yew've gone 'ta crush good old Joe! He was my favorite banjo, an' yewCRUSHED HIM!" Tough snapped off to Egola in fury in listing the things to complain about, and they were unforgivable. "Now, Ah'll mash yew! RUUARRRRGUHH," As the stallion issued this, he was starting to pull the ice giant's fist with all his might and... "Breakfrsuvhmmn...." Suddenly in an amazing feat of strength, Tough managed to break off the arm of Egola clear off. "HE BROKE THE ARM!" The Enforcers, now recovered, saw this act and could not believe one Earth Pony did that. Everyone saw that with shock or gasping mouths. "But, Egola is capable of using 100& of its maximum potential, especially when everything around it is ice that supports an ice giant like an ally." Twilight issued off in sheer disbelief that Tough Apple was strong enough to overpower an ice giant that is said to be at its strongest when around ice environment to help give it power; it's impossible to believe. "RUUARRRUUGH...." Tough Apple was then seen swinging that broken arm like a bat before, taking it for a swing test. "POWWVHMMM.../Breakrisvhmmm...." Then the pony smashed the other ice arm against Egola's other arm which broke it off in a clean swipe. "Apparently, when you get on Tough's nerves, that logic could almost be out the window." Ben rephrase the issue Twilight spoke in seeing now Egola the Ice Giant had both arms removed, so it can't fight with its brute strength now. "Time I help use a move I haven't used since that time with Boris. Unicorn Burst," Adult Nyx issued off while charging up her horn with a powerful piercer spell move she used to defeat Boris the Red Devil and the Devil's Red Sun long ago when she was revert into Nightmare Moon, but now...it's different with her Battle Form. "Powwwfruvhmmm..../Crackrisfruvhmm..." At that moment, the attack pierced through Egola's chest, breaking him apart until he became completely shattered away. This was a clear sign; the group has defeated another Guardian foe before them. "We did it!" Bocolix responded in sheer joy that the group won this. "We won!" Dumbledore responded in happiness that the grouo defeated the ice giant. "Correction, Tough won," Phobos pointed out to the two Enforcers, cutting the joy to remind them both, they barely did much since it was another pony that helped out. "Yeah, who would have seen that coming?" Spike shrug off his shoulders in never guessing Tough could take out a Guardian creature like that. "Hugh-hugh...dat was fer Joe!" Tough was exhaling his breath in the cold to issue who he did that for. "Easy Tough Apple, I'm sure a little magic can help fix, ugh, Joe, good as new." Ben patted Tough on the back to ease stress for the pony. "Ye think so?" Tough asked off in a bit of tears to hold his banjo, Joe, in pieces. "As my best bud Flash Sentry says; now why would I go and lie to you?" Ben smiled to rephrase a quote that his best pal used to help cheer him up in the past. "Shot, dat dose make me happy." Tough smiled off to say in feeling much better now, even Ben smiled in helping a friend with such words of good advice. "Everypony, look at this!" Nyx spoke in reverting to her filly form in finding something in the snow. "What is it Nyx?" Twilight asked when she and the others came to inspect what the black filly found. "It's another ring, like when we defeated that plant guardian Mehitos." Nyx issued in showing what was a gray human ring finger with pointed crystal tower ice sculptures on the top, and boy was it a rare but familiar sight. "She's right, this must be the Ice Giant Guardian; Egola's magic ring to summon and control him." Twilight spoke in using her magic to float the ring to her, recognizing the power contain inside it, with the Guardian defeated, they are now the owners of Egola's ring. "And wouldn't you know it, we just won the prize. Here, allow me." Ben smiled in seeing they've gotten another rare item, as he takes the new ring and helps to slide it on the necklace around Twilight's neck, adding two Guardian Magic Rings to their collection so far. "There you go Twilight, another Guardian's magic ring for you to help keep track & to help us somewhere along our adventures." Ben exclaimed in seeing that, with this newest addition, they have collected Guardians that depending on the owner can be directed to do good deeds, then evil, especially if the Ice Giant Egola was under orders from one of the Eight Demon Sorcerers. "Oh Ben, I'm almost thinking this is a habit of you giving me rings!" Twilight playfully waved off in feeling a bit flattered by her love and his generous thinkings about how they can do things in protecting things they love, etc. "Come on, let’s get this cart up so we can get in the cave and find that ingredient thing!" Phobos shouted off to wake everyone to notice, they still got a job to do in going after what they came to this frozen reign for. "Phobos is right; we need to really get moving now." Spike responded in agreement, there is no time to be losing here. Soon everyone helped to set the cart back up and to hook Justin the MechBull back in the connector areas to have him pull the group. Once Rabbitchu helped to charge the bull, a little cow calling made them know, they are ready. Then Twilight's group gets back into the cart after Ben had Bocolix & Dumbledore try to help fix Tough's banjo, for Alicorns, the Enforcers, at first didn't know how to fix an instrument, lucky Ben Mare taught them how. It was the first time Boris's stooges learn to help a friend by fixing something they cherish be fix again, and seeing Tough happy & hug them, too tightly, proved many things. After that little issue was settled, did the group enter the cave to find the ingredient: the Colored Icicle. There are icicles hanging in certain places in the caves, hard to find. But eventually Twilight's group found a very oddly colored icicle that isn't white hanging alone on the ceiling. "Okay, so are we going to get that icicle down?" Spike asks the others in concern. "Why not ask our new friend for help?" Twilight ask thoughtfully as she uses her horn to activates Egola's ring. The others stood back in concern in case the Ice Giant wants payback for its defeat. Egola appears, repaired and grunting, "Egola? Can you please do me a favor and get that oddly colored icicle off the ceiling?" Egola grunts as he reaches up and pulls on the Colored Icicle with all his might. Soon the Ice Giant removes the thing and gives it to Twilight. "Thank you, Egola." Twilight said gently as she put the icicle into her handbag. "You may go now. Thanks again." The Ice Giant roars as he disappears from sight. Ben said, "He's much nicer than this time." "Well, when one got good matters, it helps." "Now can we done git out o' 'dis wasteland please? Thank you!" Tough shivers a bit, making the others laugh a bit. Still, the grouo left the cave and got back onto Justin, leaving the Ice Limbo at last. ---------------------- Meanwhile, back in Safe Haven, the villains were doing their various activities, until the Superior suddenly teleports in, getting everyone's attention. "BORIS THE ANIMAL," The Superior booms madly. "It's just Boris." Boris growls a bit, a bit irritated by the nickname. "Do not correct me. I know you sent Boxco and Dum-Dum to the End of Equestria against my orders." The Superior said to Boris sternly. "Errr, I don't know what you..." Boris said, trying to play innocent but the Superior cuts him off furiously. "BORIS!!!" The Superior roars in furiously. Trixie suddenly teleports in, Boris who notice as he ask, “Trixie, what’s wrong?” Trixie exclaim in worry, "Boris, you must leave now!" "Why?" Boris asks Trixie in worry. "Because my father and brother are-" Trixie stops as she saw that the Superior is already here, along with Merluck who appears soon after. "Oh." "Save it, Trixie. Boris deserves it." Merluck snaps to Trixie sternly. "Deserves to be part of your organization; told you before, Merluck. I'm not interested in it." Boris remarks to Merluck, rolling his eyes at this. "We're not here for your recruitment, Boris. Or have you forgotten the subject already?" The Superior ask Boris sternly. "Anyway, like I was wondering, where are your so-called henchponies?" "Boxco and Dum-Dum; they are sick, Superior." Boris said, trying futilely to cover up their absence. "Is that so? I don't know what to say to you, Boris. Either you're brave or stupid for not obeying my orders carefully." The Superior said to Boris darkly because he knows that the Red Devil Pony is fibbing to him. “What are you talking about? I’ve been here for more than a year since that Lorcan war!” Boris protests to the Superior in annoyance. "You dare to wish to test my patience?! Fine, it seems your skull cannot be breached. Very well; I’ll tell you. I have received some complains and reports from 'The End of Equestria'! Ours plans of getting rid of Twilight Sparkle and her family was interfered by your stupid henchponies!" "Say what?" Boris asks, pretending to be startled by this part. “How did he know?” Gilda ask her pals in concern and disbelief. "Did he say some?" Flim ask in surprise; who would be complaining from 'The End of Equestria' since there are anypony barely living there?! "But there was no one there but monsters!" Flam exclaims in disbelief. "That is true. And it's because the Demon Lords controlled that area!" Merluck snaps to the bad guys. "Demon Lords; I thought they're just myths!" Boris exclaims in surprise. He had no idea that the Demon Lords themselves indeed exist! "Like the Demon Pony?" Gilda scoffs a bit, reminding him of how he made the same claim a few months ago. "Trust them, and us I think they're seriously real, Boris." Boris glares to Gilda before turning back to the Superior and Merluck, asking, "So, and your point, Superior?" "The point of this is what part of getting permission from us do you not understand, devil?!" Merluck snaps to Boris angrily. “I had warned you about the consequences. It seems you wish to challenge my father’s leadership." “So, what if I am? At least, I don’t have to be a coward like Trixie’s old pony!” Boris snaps in defiance. The Superior stomp his hooves onto the ground with loud boom sounds while the ground shook. "Don't you dare test my patient, Boris; I'm not in a good mood. In fact, my old allies, the Demon Lords, are not pleased by your stupidity attempts" The Superior remarks, referring to the Demon Lords. Boris was shocked of this. Trixie nods as she explains, "It’s true. The Demon Lords are too our allies, not only Grimmore. You’d better tell my father the truth, or he’ll send you to the Realm of Demons. This is not a joke!” Boris, recovering, speaks up, "Alright, you win, Superior. I did send Boxco and Dum-Dum there. So, I can get rid of Ben Mare and get Twilight Sparkle back to me for good!" "If that is true, why Tso Lan told me that your stupid bodyguards attacked his brethren?" The Superior demands to Boris more than he asked, "Another trickery; It sounds like you're willing to help Twilight and her family more than attacking them." "I'd told them to protect Twilight, not her so-called family, especially that Earth Pony filth!" Boris waves off the Superior's question. “Once they get out with Twilight only, I’ll have her be with me for good!” “Imbecile,” The Superior and Merluck both yell at Boris, making him shocked by this. "You do realize that with one false move of attacking and leaving her family behind, Boxco and Dum-Dum would lose the track and trust of Twilight Sparkle. She and her family would leave them behind." Merluck remarks to Boris, making him groan. "For all we know, those two nitwits may end up betraying us and go over to their side!" "Betray me?! Please, they will always be loyal to me!" Boris snaps to Merluck's accusation towards Bocolix and Dumbledore. "Even when you threw a Red Devil Sun at your foes, with your minions in the crossfire," The Superior reminds Boris of what he almost did to his minions during the war with Lorcan. "Hey, they would've gotten out of the way in time!" Boris snaps to the Superior in protest. "Getting back to Twilight, in other words, you will never win Twilight’s heart with such pathetic attempts." The Superior roars to Boris making him groan. "I had grown tired of your resistance, Treachery and disobedience, Boris! So prepare to face your punishment, Boris the Animal!" "I grow tired to following your rules, old pony! And I grow tired of being called by that stupid nickname!” Boris snaps angrily to the Superior, getting really fed up by now. “Do you know why?! It ticks me off than ever before, you coward!” “What did you call me?!” The Superior demands, anger by what Boris called him. “You heard me, Superior! You’re a coward! You had powers of Demon and Dark Magic, and you still decide not to attack the Mane Six, the Earth Pony Filths, Princess Celestia and her kingdom!” Boris exclaims, calling the Superior out for some of his flaws. “What are you afraid of?! Afraid of the princesses and the Mane Six; Afraid of the Demon Lords; Afraid of Grimmore; It sounds like you’re really a coward.” “Boris! You will pay for your fowl tongue for insulting and mocking my father!” Merluck scowls, furious by Boris badmouthing the Superior like that. Trixie is getting worried, Boris is pressing his luck! Boris kept on pressing as he ask Merluck, “What about you, Merluck?! You’d still follow him because of the blood?! You really are a coward too! I thought you were strong and powerful, but I guess I was wrong. You’re more of a show-off and a bragger than Trixie!” “Boris, that’s enough!” Trixie exclaims, fearing that Boris is going too far. “You’re making them angry!” “No! I had something to say! I'd rather faced Ben at once. I'll prove Twilight that I am the one who she should love me; Even if I have to empty the love from her soul to do so!" Boris remarks to the villain sternly. "Had you taken her soul, she would have died, imbecile." The Superior points out to Boris in fumes. "I mean get the love of her soul so she would be mine!" Boris corrects the Superior while rolling his eyes. "Do what you want with me, but putting me to Earth Pony state or hurting Trixie will be your biggest mistake!” The Superior in amusement yet still anger asks, “So, you wish to defend my daughter after her failure attempts since the Alicorn Amulet incident?!” Boris nods as he said, “She's my boss and leader. Hurt her one more time, I’ll make you sorry for what did! Oh, trust me, I'm just getting warm up! I'll beat the crap out of you!" "Boris, don't!" Trixie yelps in worry, knowing how challenging the Superior will be a huge mistake. But it's too late to turn back now at this point. “You had gone too far, Boris!” Merluck exclaims, knowing that Boris has indeed gone too far in his insults. “It appears Boris had become the Fallen Mystic for he seeks powers and lust.” The Superior said, his voice darken with more anger, “Very well! I will not be merciful! Prepare to meet your doom!” The Superior unleashes Dark magic through his horn while his eyes glow in green. The former members of Brotherhood of Tadaka quickly hide leaving Boris to face the Superior. Trixie became scared and worried then scream in anger and upset. She then gallops towards Boris and block the Superior from attacking him. “Father; Please spare him! I beg of you!” Trixie pleads to her father in fear and sadness. “I promise that he won’t be a problem. Do what you want with me! Please, spare Boris.” “Trixie; I can handle it!” Boris exclaims, assuring Trixie that he will be fine. “I’m an Alicorn. I’ve got nothing to worry about.” “Boris, please. This is not a joke! My father is in a very bad mood! Apologize now!” Trixie exclaims, pleading to Boris to apologize to her father for his insults and mockery. “I won’t!” Boris exclaims in refusal. “It seems that both of you deserve it!” The Superior remarks in amusement at what’s happening. “So be it!” The Supoerior then fire his Dark Magic. Both Boris and Trixie embrace each other tightly. Instead of the two, a wall exploded. Boris and Trixie look shocked and surprised as Merluck is. The Superior calmly says, "I will not kill you both. For I have some use of you two, as well as giving great reason why it is not wise to attack Princess Celestia and her kingdom. I will let you get Twilight, Boris, when you receive the mission from me that involve both her and Ben. However, you will not go alone. You will be assisted by Trixie and your henchponies.” “So, I have my chance?” Boris asks in hope and concern. “Yes, Boris. But once you learn the truth of Twilight and Ben’s relationship, you will stop your lust or else end up like your father Judge Fordyn." Boris snarl, "Never speak of my father’s name again!" "Then, obey, Boris. You'll get your chance. I do not want any more excuses from now on." The Superior said to Boris, seeing how the villain has gotten his point across. The Superior turn away from Boris and his gang, along with Merluck; His son frowns as Merluck ask, "Father, why do you not punish him for his disobedience and treachery?" "I will, my son. But not me, The Demon Lords will. Tso Lan told me that he and his brethren wish to punish that imbecile personally." The Superior said calmly. He is explaining how it is better for the Demon Lords to punish Boris, not the Superior alone. Merluck smirk as he comments, "I understand." "Besides, you're right about Trixie's relationship with Boris. I believe this is the beginning of their romantic relationship." The Superior chuckles a bit much to Merluck’s notice. “So, that’s why you pair between them.” Merluck said in amusement yet puzzlement. “But, that is unlike you, father, for thinking of romance.” “No, it isn’t. I merely making sure that fool don’t do anything stupid.” The Superior explains as he and Merluck teleported out of Safe Haven. Boris and Trixie look at their position; they blush just before the two quickly separate. "Are you alright, Boris? I'm sorry for not informing you earlier." Trixie said to Boris in guilt. She would've told him about the punishment before but the mare got delayed. Boris doesn't seem worry as he comments, "No worries. Besides, I'd always want to speak against your stupid father." Trixie slap Boris's face, snapping, "Don't get used to it, Boris. I'm pretty ticked off at your stupid stunt." Boris groan, "I won't, boss." "I'm not your boss. I'm your friend." Trixie said to Boris in gentle. 'Yeah, we're friends." Boris comments with a sigh, making Trixie sighs a bit. When will he ever realize that she wants to be more than just a friend? "For now, better hope that two pals of yours don't get killed." Trixie sighs a bit. "Why do you even hang with them anyway?" "I don't know." Boris remarks to Trixie with a sigh. "The truth is, they're the only ones who aren't scared of me when I was a bully back then, both of them are willing to hang with me. Sometimes, I treat them more like mindless minions...sometimes I treat them like the only friends that I got." Trixie sigh a bit as she hugs Boris in comfort. He will be needing it. ----------------- Dai Gui roars angrily, "My pet is defeated!" The Demon Lords has been informed of yet another defeat of another pet of the Demon Lords. This time, it's Egola, who is Dai Gui's pet. The Demon is not happy at all. Hsi Wu groans, "Great, another pet of ours lost. These ponies are getting more tenacious than we realized." "Perhaps, Hsi Wu; While Tchang Zu made some necessary preparations for our enemies' arrival, we must make ours for the future," Tso Lan said calmly. Hopefully their preparations will at least make up for what happened so far. "Indeed. How unfortunate for us to be beaten by not only ponies, but Mystic Banishment Ingredients," Xiao Fung remarks with a frown. "So four of us down and four are still in." "Well, if you can count five when Tchang Zu is defeated." Hsi Wu said, suggesting that Tchang Zu will most likely be beaten next if Twilight and her friends found out what Tchang Zu's Mystic Banishment Ingredient is. "Tchang Zu will not! His plans and prowess cannot fall easily to mere ponies. He will avenge my pet's defeat!" Dai Gui roars angrily. He wants Egola to be avenged soon enough! "Don't remind me of that. It's so hard to believe that Grundles are determined to defend their home, and the next, they befriend the ponies." Bai Tza said, recalling how the Grundles became friends after King Hugo was beaten. "Unbelievable, for an extinct species, they are too friendly." "Tchang Zu should have ordered the Goblin to lead them to safety for me to feast." Po Kong grunts a bit in disappointment. "So, that no pony can get Golden Nugget since the King of Grundles has it." Hsi Wu rolls his eyes, asking his fellow Demon dryly, "Really? Food is all you can think of?" "I can't help it, Hsi Wu. After all, it's a habit. I am the Demon Lord of Mountain. I hungered and devoured anything, even smallest pieces. The more I eat, the stronger I get." Po Kong said, explaining how she tends to get stronger when she eats. "You should know of that, Hsi Wu. Still, what would a Mystic Pony be doing here in the first place?" Bai Tza asks, getting to the subject as to what a Mystic Pony is doing in the End of Equestria in the first place. "We will never know, my sister dear. But I do know that if it is an old enemy of mine, I will tear him apart, especially his nephew. Both of them are bothersome and nuisance!" Shendu remarks, recalling the past as to how two certain enemies of his were a mind to him centuries ago. Flashback At Shendu's Palace, Dragon Kick, Tadaka, Lorcan, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna are fighting Shendu while leaving the Royal Guards and the Ninja Shadow Demons, blue humanoid black ninjas to battle. While flying up high, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna fire their magic at Shendu, causing him to be pushed back into a wall. Both Tadaka and Lorcan charge at Shendu. Shendu immediately dodge the attacks and used his tail to swipe Tadaka's leg fall. Lorcan jump up high and is about to attack Shendu. Shendu grab Lorcan's leg. He swung him for a few times before he threw him at the Princesses up high. Shendu roar and glare at Dragon Kick, "I'll tear you apart, Mystic Warrior!" Shendu starts chasing Dragon Kick who yelps in worry, "Bad day! Bad day! Bad day! BAD DAY! Uncle! Hurry!" Dragon Kick climbs onto a wall with his two legs. Shendu charge right at him before he quickly jump over before Shendu crash onto the wall. Dragon Kick quickly stomps on Shendu's head. The Demon roared angrily. Dragon Kick jump out and start running while Shendu chase after him. During this time, Tao is mixing potions with the help of Star Swirl the Bearded and Golden Heart. Star Swirl ask Tao in concern, knowing that the others may not hold out against Shendu for long, "How long will it take, Tao? Our allies cannot hold him long!" "Patient, A little bit more, old friend!" Tao remarks to Star Swirl sternly. "If it doesn't work, you will be sorry, Tao!" Golden Heart said to Tao with a scowl. Tao hits Golden Heart's head, snapping, "Manners, Goldie! You do not have the knowledge of Mystic Magic Potions! Do you want to defeat Shendu?" Golden Heart nods his head."Then help me with swift as a rabbit!" Golden groan, "I hate it when he was right." He quickly helped Tao with the ingredients that Tao had. Shendu was about to fire his attacks through his hand, eyes and mouth. Dragon Kick cried in fear as he keeps on running until he was pushed to the right by Lorcan. Dragon Kick sighs in relief, "Thanks, Lorcan." "Don't mention it." Lorcvan said with a grin to his ally. Dragon Kick and Lorcan armed their battle position as Shendu is coming at them. Princess Celestia, Princess Luna and Tadaka came to them as quickly as they can. Tadaka calls out, "Look sharp, here comes the bad Dragon." "Dad! Is this the time to joke?" Lorcan asks Tadaka, a bit annoyed by the joke. "No! It's clobbering time!" Tadaka exclaims in determination. Both he and Shendu roar angrily as they both charge and held their fronts tight and strongly. They both glare at each other. "Shendu, give it up! You can't win this fight! All of your brethren have sent to the Realm of Demons by brave Mystic Ponies! So, I suggest you surrender! I don't want to hurt you as my friend!" Shendu growl, "If you are, then you wouldn't side with weakling ponies in the first place! For what; for glory; Was mine isn't enough?!" "It's not the power, Shendu! It's helping my friends! I cannot let you harm them, not while I stand as my father did before me!" Tadaka exclaims to Shendu in determination. Shendu just scoffs at this, "Your father is a weak-minded fool! He knows nothing of strength!" "How dare you speak to my father that way," Tadaka roars to Shendu in fury by Spykoran (AKA the original Spike) be insulted that way. "You will pay for insults, Shendu!" Celestia exclaims sternly over the Dragon King being insulted that way as well. "Prepare yourself!" Luna said in determination. Celestia and Luna launched their magic powers at Shendu's eyes. While trying to recovered from the attack, Tadaka quickly push him out while Dragon Kick and Lorcan jump over his father. They both used their fists and punches on Shendu's face, knocking him down to the ground. At first, they were okay. They screamed in pain as the two shook the pain off from their fists. Dragon Kick yelps in pain, "Those talismans of his are making him stronger. That hurt!" "Unless we stop his powers, we won't get a break." Lorcan groans in agreement. Shendu is going to be hard to beat unless his powers are taken from him! "Fear nothing, our allies. Our magic will temporary stop his powers. Tao, now," Star Swirl calls out in determination. Tao, Star Swirl and Golden Heart placed their cards in front of them with strange words that symbolized 'Power Ceased'. The old pony mumbles these words, "Yu Mo Gwai Gwaai Fai Di Zao; Yu Mo Gwai Gwaai Fai Di Zao! Yu Mo Gwai Gwaai Fai Di Zao!" The cards glow in green. They then fire at Shendu as he screams in pain. After that, Shendu slowly get up while Princess Celestia, Luna, Dragon Kick, Tadaka, Lorcan, Tao, Star Swirl and Golden Heart prepare to attack. Shendu tried to fire from his mouth and hand, but nothing happens. He also saw his Shadow Ninja Demons are not there. Shendu was in shock as he shivers in fear. "What did you do to me?!" Shendu demands to his enemies frantically. "Temporary Stop Attack Spell; Just for the right monster," Tao explains to Shendu calmly. That spell will keep Shendu's powers in check. "In other words, you have no hope to use your powers or your army." Golden Heart explains clearly to Shendu. The Demon's reign of terror ends today. Star Swirl nods as he adds, "You had lost, Shendu." "I have not!" Shendu exclaims in madness. He refuse to lose so close to victory! "Think again!" Dragon Kick and Lorcan exclaims. They jump high and kick straight at Shendu's face. Tadaka charge and gives some punches onto Shendu for few times. Princesses, Tao, Star Swirl and Golden Heart launch their magic on Shendu. They continued attacking Shendu for few times until Dragon Kick and Lorcan gave the last punches at Shendu on his face. Shendu was knocked out to the ground. Everyone surrounded him. Flashback Ends Tso Lan hold a fist in rage, commentating, "Tao and Dragon Kick. Both of them are the reasons of our defeat. I presume that one of them is helping our enemies." "Yes. One of them; and I presume the old pony is." Shendu said thoughtfully. Come to think of it, the old voice does sound like Tao's! "So what plans we must be prepare, Tso Lan?" "As far as I know, our only remaining pets are four: Bai Tza's, Tchang Zu's, Hsi Wu's and mine while I, Shendu, Po Kong and Tchang Zu are still open to our portal." Tso Lan said, recalling how there are only four pets left while four of the Demon Lords are still able to get to Equestria. "To defeat our enemies, we will strike them at the last item they require." "I know what you mean. So both you and me will be the last line of defense." Shendu said evilly. "No, I will be. Shendu, you must guard the last ingredient, and make sure that our objective is secured and cleared." Tso Lan explains to Shendu clearly of what must be done. "That ingredient must not be retrieved from your palace." "Understood, Tso Lan," Shendu said, bowing a bit. "So, I guess I will be at my territory for my food to come. But what about you," Po Kong ask Tso Lan, wondering what he will do if the heroes were to get the last ingredient. "Yes, my little sister. Should Nightmare Moon and her family succeed in task, they will be on their way home. That will be my entrance and my stand against them. I will bring her back to us, even if I had to spill her blood out to create a new Nightmare Seeker. "Tso Lan said in determination. Nightmare Moon will be the Demon Lord's no matter what. "Do what you must, older brother. Our freedom and victory depends on the four of you." Bai Tza said sternly. "Remember do not underestimate them, especially Twilight Sparkle. She is the reason for making your weapon and daughter as her daughter. She might have ways to defeat you." "Do not worry, Bai Tza. Instead of defeating Twilight, I have some use of her and her so-called husband. We will not fail this mission." Tso Lan said in confidence...maybe too confident. "Understood," The Demon Lords said in determination. "We shall be freed from this imprisonment! I shall find the way to free us, instead of Panku Box. Equestria will fall to our hands." Tso Lan roars eagerly. --------------------------- In the meeting room, the Superior contacts Grimmore once more, the Dark Elf ask, "Well?" "Boris doesn't deny it...I will let him live for now." The Superior said calmly. "If the Demon Lords don't kill him first..." "I doubt it. The Demon Lords can't do much if they are beaten and banished back to the Realm of Demons once more." Grimmore said calmly as well. "Boris is quite a troublemaker." "Not much like his father." The Superior remarked. "Now there's a pony who knows what he's doing." "Then I suggest we replace that disgrace with him." Grimmore suggested. "Not now. Boris can still be of use to us all. If Boris keeps stepping out of line too many times, then I will do something about him." The Superior said in dismissal. "Now let's get back to another matter...according to what T. Moon has informed me about...the Hole." Grimmore ask in interest, "What of this Hole?" The Superior explains, "It is destroying another universe..." --------- The Hole is already wiping out another universe, confronting a version of Spike, demanding "Merge With me!" "Never," The alternative Spike snaps. He only yells as the Hole overshadows him, preparing to do whatever he wants to do. -------------- "Perhaps this Hole is better off as an ally than a foe." The Superior said calmly. "If he comes here eventually, what universe will we have left to rule?" "We will keep an eye on that Hole as well. We all need to keep an eye on some individual we don't trust." Grimmore commented. "Like a certain robot that I found. How pathetic," The Superior chuckles a bit. A figure in the shadows glares at the Superior with red lights for eyes, mumbling, "Those pathetic meat bags..." He flexes his mechanical claw before disappearing. ----------------- Shining Armor visits Twilight's home at Ponyville. He looks around and sees the family book. Shining opens it and saw a picture of his foal hood with his parents, Twilight, his dead-brother and him. He then flips into the next one. This one consist not only his family, but Friends and Royal Family: Princess Celestia, Luna, Cadance, Ben, Nyx, Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Spike and Phobos. They all looked happy from last year after Lorcan's War. Tears drip slowly from his eyes, they dripped and flow down Shining Armor's face. He sob softly and sadly while looking at the photo album. Shining sobbed, "Twiley; My Little Twiley." Princess Cadance, Night Light and Twilight Velvet came in and saw Shining Armor crying. They approached him and comfort the stallion with Night Light saying, "Shhh.....It’s okay, son. It's not your fault." "It is, dad! I'm her Big Brother Best Friend Forever! I'm supposed to help, support and protect her at any cost because I don't want to repeat the same mistake like losing Starlight!" Shining exclaims to his father in sadness. "It's all because of me! I'm such an irresponsible stallion!" Twilight Velvet sighs, saying, "No, you're not. Besides, do you think that you're the only one who suffered in seeing her off to the end of the world?" "No, mom," Shining admits. "Then, don't blame yourself, young stallion. This is Twilight Sparkle we're talking about. She'll do anything to help and protect her friends and family, just like we did." Twilight Velvet explains to Shining gently. "You know that like when she tried to defend you from evil queen and her Changelings." "Don't forget about saving the Crystal Empire from evil king. It's very hard for us too, son. But in our family, we cannot lose that faith. We must believe in her and her family coming back to us." Night Light said, saying that no matter what, everyone must believe that Twilight will come back soon. Cadance hug Shining Armor, saying kindly, "Don't give up on your sister because I'd always believe in her coming back and save us. She always does." "I know, Cadance. It's so hard for me to see her off. What if I'd never see her again? I don't want to see this event again," Shining said, worried about him losing Twilight like he has lost Starlight. "I know." Cadance said in understanding. Night Light and Twilight Velvet smiled as they approach and hug both Cadance and Shining Armor. Twilight's father asks Shining, "Shining Armor, do you remember our lullaby?" "Yeah, dad, we sing together to make us feel better." Shining said with a small smile, recalling that lullaby all so well. "I know it's not the time to sing our song. But it makes us better. I'm sure Twilight wouldn't want you be upset." Twilight Velvet suggests to Shining. Perhaps a song would help make him feel better. Flashback Filly Twilight approaches the sad Shining Armor in his room. He is on his bed as the colt stares at the window. Twilight jumps on his back that startled him. "Are you alright, big brother?" Twilight ask Shining in concern, wanting to help him. Shining sighs, "I'm fine, little sis." "No, you're not. What is it?" Twilight insists to Shining. Something is bugging her big brother and she won't be happy if he isn't happy. Shining sighs, knowing that his little sister won't give in until he talks, "Okay, little sis, you win. I failed the test again. My dad is so gonna kill me. I know I want to become the Royal Guard, but I can't, because of my mistakes. Maybe I should think of another way." "No way! You're not gonna quit, mister!" Twilight squeaks a bit in determination. "You're not gonna give up!" "But, Twilight......It's-" Shining begins to say but Twilight, who won't have it, interrupts him. "No excuses, Shiny. You're my Big Brother Best Friend Forever. I don't want you to give up your dream. Because it's what you want. That's who you are." Twilight explains to Shining. As he looks at her, the filly continues, "Being Royal Guards doesn't need the smart ones, they need heroic, brave and kind soldiers like you. You may not be the smartest pony, but you're the kindest and greatest brother that I ever had, no matter who or what ponies said." Shining gasps but smile, "Oh, Twiley, I forgot how smart you'd really are. Thanks sis. You are the best." Twilight smile as she said, "Don't forget Starlight." Shining chuckles, "I wouldn't." Shining Armor and Twilight Sparkle hug together. Night Light, Twilight Velvet and Starlight saw what happened, and they smiled to see it. It's great to see these two siblings helping one another no matter what. Twilight giggles while asking, "Can you sing our lullaby?" Shining smile as he answers, "Anything for you, little sis." They both sing together. Flashback ends "I guess you're right. I'll sing for Twilight." Shining said as he begins singing. Shining: Please stop your crying, it will be alright Just take my hoof, hold it tight I will protect you from all bad ponies I will be here, so don't cry Cadance: For one so young, you seem so strong My hooves will hold you, keep you safe and warm Night Light smiles, remembering his memories. He misses his daughter enough to sing along as well. Night Light: This bond between us can never be broken Twilight Velvet: I will be here, don't you cry The family hugged each other, singing together. Shining, Cadance, Night Light and Twilight Velvet: 'Cause I'll be in your heart Yes, I'll be in your heart From this day on Now and forever more Shining and Cadance: I'll be in your heart No matter what they think Night Light and Twilight Velvet: I'll be here in your heart, Family Together: Always Twilight Velvet: Why won't they understand our bond and love? Night Light: They just don't trust what they don't understand. Cadance: We maybe different, but Shining: Deep inside us, our hearts are bonded as one as a family. Family Together: And I'll be in your heart Yes, I'll be in your heart From this day on, Now and forevermore. Night Light: Don't listen to them, 'cause what do they understand? (Twilight Velvet: what do they understand) Twilight Velvet: We need each other, to have strengths of our love. Night Light and Twilight Velvet: They'll see in time, I believed. Cadance: When destiny calls you, you must be strong (Shining Armor: You gotta be strong) Shining Armor: I may not be with you, but you've got to have faith. Shining Armor and Cadance: They'll see in time, we know. We'll show them together, 'cause Family Together: I'll be in your heart, Believe us, I'll be in your heart. I'll lwas be there from this day on, now and forever more. Night Light: Oh, I'll be in your heart (Twilight Velvet: I'll be here in your heart) Cadance: No matter what they say (Shining: I'll be with you) Family Together: I'll be here in your heart (I'll be there) The song is close to ending as everyone grins. Shining Armor: Always Cadance: Always Night Light: I'll be with you, Twilight Velvet: I'll be there for you always Night Light, Twilight Velvet, Cadance: Will and always be there for you Our bonds are strong Our bonds are great Our bonds are one and love Shining Armor: I'll be there always. Once the song is over, Night Light, Twilight Velvet, Shining Armor and Cadance hugged together. They hope for the safe return of Twilight and her group Outside of Twilight's home window, Jade saw and heard everything. She sobbed and smile at the scene. Jade sniffled as she said, "Twilight and Nyx are lucky to have their family. If only I could see mine 190 years ago. That would be nice." Jade rub her tears off before she left. -------------- In front of a canyon, Dragon Kick informed Tao about the status in Ponyville, as well as the mistake he made. Of course, Tao wasn't pleased at all. Tao screams in anger, "Aieeeyaaah!" "What is it, Uncle?" Dragon Kick asks his uncle. As a response, Tao hit on Dragon Kick's head, making him yelp in pain. "How many times do I have to tell you; do not give mortals Golden Eggs! They will be tempted and greedy for them!" Tao scolds Dragon Kick. "Were you listening?! No; How on heaven are you becoming a better and powerful Mystic Pony if you keep repeating same mistake?!" Dragon Kick rubs where Tao hits him with a hoof, asking with a groan, "Why do you have to hit me for over a thousand years, Uncle, when you know it wasn't my fault? By the way, Uncle Tao, I retired from being a Mystic Warrior. I am a Mystic Civilized as archaeologist." "That won't be any Mystic Civilized if you're not careful, like I'm entrusting you in my absent duty." Tao snaps to Dragon Kick sternly. "Your job is to keep an eye of any trouble, but instead you let Mighty Heart give Golden Eggs, all for cookies?!" Dragon Kick sheepishly said, "Sorry." "Golden Eggs not important; this is not good. If we do not accelerate this mission, the enemies will strike. The Superior and Grimmore will stop at nothing to destroy all the life in Equestria. I feared that darkness will triumph." Tao said in concern, fearing for the future of Equestria. "I wonder if Twilight and her family had arrived here." Dragon Kick said, pondering if Twilight and her group has arrived yet. "Only one way to find out," Jade said, almost causing Tao to jump out of his coat as well as freaking out Dragon Kick. "Jade; I thought I told you-!" Dragon Kick begins to scold Jade once more. "How many times do I have to remind you? I had Battle Mode to maximize my Chi Protection Spell." Jade snaps to Dragon Kick in annoyance. "So no biggy; Speaking of which, somepony is coming." Tao, Dragon Kick and Jade spot Twilight and her family from far. Tao smile as he prepares himself, saying, "That would be my entrance. Good luck for me." Dragon Kick and Jade activated their invisibility spell. They vanished from sight. Hopefully, this meeting will go well. ------------ Twilight and her family was heading to the next area when they spotted Tao. Nyx comments, "It's Tao." "What's 'dat old pony doing?!" Tough ask puzzled. Tao is collecting rocks for some reason. That old pony is getting more mysterious by the moment! "No idea. Let's check on him." Twilight suggests as the group came over to Tao. "Hey, Tao," Ben calls out, getting Tao's attention. Tao smiles as he comments, "Ah, Twilight and her family. I see you're out of the cold. You had me worried because you might become Ice Ponies." Phobos groan, "Don't remind me." "Not to be rude, but what's with the rock collection?" Spike asks, glancing at the rocks that Tao is picking up. Tao smile, answering Spike's question, "Do you know that rocks have some meanings?" "I don't get it." Bocolix said in confusion, not understanding what Tao is going for here. Dumbledore nods in agreement as he adds, "Yeah, they're just dumb rocks." "Well, he had a point." Spike spoke up with a shrug. Phobos nods, adding, "I couldn't agree more. Rocks have no meaning." Tao hit Spike, Phobos, Bocolix and Dumbledore's heads, making them yelp in pain. The old pony scolds the disbelievers, "More than just dumb rocks, Dragons and thieves. They maybe small as one, but as together, they united as large and create massive quake and destruction. Beware of them." "Wait! Yer're not talking about a landslide or a rock slide, are yew?" Tough ask Tao in concern. Tao answers, "Mostly." "So you're advising us not to underestimate the rocks?" Nyx ask Tao while blinking her eyes which may be a clue to the next area. Odd, normally, it was the weird voice which helped with the riddles. "Exactly," Tao comments as he points to up ahead. "Up ahead is Calamity Canyon. It is the most dangerous area where rocks fall from the heaven. So, you'd best be luck for this mess, my friends. Be aware of danger." "Got it, Tao," Ben said as he turns around, "In 3, 2 and 1." "For what," Phobos ask as he and the others turn around, wondering what Ben is counting down to. "Tao's gone again." Twilight said suddenly. Everyone looked surprised of when they saw Tao is not with them again. "When did you become psychic, Twilight," Spike ask Twilight in amazement. "I didn't. It's just Tao's habit for disappearing for 5 times, so far. But I'm not saying he's a ghost. I still don't know how he does that." Twilight said with a chuckle. It's amazing how Tao kept disappearing for some reason or so. "Here comes the voice, right?" Nyx ask, knowing that the voice is about to appear at any given moment. As if on cue, the voice spoke, "Beware of the raining rocks, a powerful warrior shall come and aid you." "Well, another habit for the voice. These things keep getting weirder and weirder." Spike said with a shrug. Phobos nods in agreement, saying, "No kidding." "No time to talk. Let's head off." Ben said as the group heads off to Calamity Canyon itself. As the group leaves, they fail to see Tao reappearing along with two relatives of his. Jade, puzzled, ask, "Okay, wanna tell us why you decide to say the riddle once?" "That's because two of them are not a threat." Tao explains to Jade clearly. "Uncle Tao's right, Jade; Egola was a prisoner to Dai Gui while the falling rocks, I believe we'll be there to help, right?" Dragon Kick suggests to Tao. Tao hit on Dragon Kick's head. He scolds, "I told you, we cannot interfere in mortals' affair! But somepony will." Dragon Kick and Jade ask at once and in bewilderment, "Who?!" If the Mystic Ponies cannot interfere, then who will? ------------- Now the scene focuses near what could be the largest canyon where it looks like giants could march through and they still not reach the top unless they were double to triple the size. What was interesting to Twilight's group as they stopped on the entry point to this canyon that seemed stringed; From a few spots ahead were rubble scattered around, like rocks have fallen and could crush the gang if they aren't careful. "Where are we now?" Tough Apple asked off to the rest in wondering where they darn ended up in within this dominion that is; the End of Equestria. "A place called Calamity Canyon." Twilight spoke from looking over her map to explain the location they are now in. "Wow, just hearing the name sounds like calamity in the waking!" Phobos issued off in knowing that just coming to such a place must be asking for a calamity to fall on them. "Wha….what else does it say about this place Twilight?" Spike asked in having the strangest feeling that this place has some surprising secrets around. "It's a canyon where speed is the key, unless we go really fast, we'll be crushed by falling boulders coming at us like raindrops." Twilight explained from seeing her map that tell her about what this Calamity Canyon place is known for. "That really does sound bad, then!" Nyx exclaimed from having the weirdest sense that this could be a tricky place to get by. "The tricky part is that the road's open path ahead or so can get tricky to run across with so much rubble piled around the areas." Twilight explained that just getting through the canyon will be hard, cause even if they ran or flew, there is bound to be piled up rubble from low, medium to high, and that can make things hard. "Worst of all is that it's said farther ahead, larger boulders may begin to fall, which means we've really gotta outrun it or risk getting flatten." The girl explained the serious part of what still lies ahead for them was that the deeper they try to pass through this place, larger boulder obstacles will come out to stop them. "That, all together, makes us now see why it's called Calamity Canyon." Ben nods in feeling he gets why this canyon is called 'Calamity Canyon', it's almost sounding like an 'Obstacle of Doom' for the Wonderbolts to overcome. "Gee, the place sounds like we can't even go backwards when we're so far ahead." Bocolix responded in seeing this was one tricky area that the group had to overcome to complete their gathering ingredients (and bring back Twilight Sparkle). "Can we use our wings to get across or just teleport all the way? It might be wasteful, but what else do we got?" Dumbledore shrug off to say that unless the group have another way to get through this canyon of calamity, then it'll be almost hard to overcome without getting crushed. "Or we can try a new idea 'ta give us more power 'ta speed fer Justin here, using Rabbitchu's electricity 'ta give us the boost we needs." Tough Apple issued off something just now that completely caught everyone here by surprise just now. "Hugh, that sounds like it might actually work." Twilight rubbed her chin with a smile in rethinking it, and Tough's suggestion may just be the key to not use up their own magic strength or physical energy, and use that when they really need it. After a few minutes with Twilight's aid, Tough, Ben- and even Dumbledore and Bocolix- aided in trying to follow the smart mare's idea in how to give Justin a supercharged boost from Rabbitchu. It involved a little spot where the bull's back would allow the little yellow rabbit/weasel to station itself to help transmit it's strong storage of energy into the MechBull. Soon the job was done, Rabbitchu sat on top of Justin's back near the neck and waist spot, and soon everyone else got into the cart while Tough Apple was station for the driver portion. "Okay, Rabbitchu, give Justin a charge." Tough Apple instructed the little mechanical rabbit to give the MechBull a great big charge. "Chu, chi…." Rabbitchu nods in response before it lets its tentacles wrap around Justin to sit tightly so it won't get knock off. "CHUUUUU……/Bzzz…." Soon Rabbitchu was unleashing a large surge of energy that was coursing through Justin's entire being. "Mwrrughh….URRARRRUGHHH," Justin could suddenly feel all that extra energy inside him, making him have a lot more strength then he's ever had. Then the MechBull was charging off two to three times its speed strength of 20 Pegasus fliers pulling a cart, and that's if they were Wonderbolt material to be in fast shape. "Yeeeehaaaaaah; we're charging through now partner!" Tough Apple cheered off to say while everyone was just keeping themselves sit tight in the cart so they wouldn't get blown off from much wind pressure force. Soon, the gang was zipping through to dodge a few of the average-sized boulders while thanks to Justin's boulder smashing horns and being supercharged in speed boost, it is excellent to ram through any piles of gravel or rubble without any accidents. "Hey, maybe this calamity thing isn't as bad as we thought!" Phobos spoke off to kick back to relax, everything looks like nothing could harm them. "Wanna bet?!" Spike cried out to shout in worry to notice, something harmful is coming their way. "BASH…BASH…Crashfruvhmmm…." Soon what was coming down was very large size rocks that smashed and bashed around, almost causing a quake that shook the gang. The good news was they were alright, but question remain, how long, especially when more larger size rock boulders would come falling down to crush them. "Dadgum! We're at max speed an' them bigger fellas sure are hitting hard!" Tough Apple curse in seeing that Justin and Rabbitchu are giving them everything they got, yet if the objects are too big, they can't dodge since the wide room isn't long enough to maneuver about. "We need to stop them!" Nyx stated that the group has to stop those falling boulders from almost getting to them. "You're right, Nyx, we'll have to destroy them." Twilight nods in believing her daughter made a good point, they have to destroy those large rocks before they touch the ground and almost hit them. "Hey, Bocolix, Dumbledore, think you can actually help break a couple of giant rocks?" Ben smiled to turn to the Enforcers while getting his Master Sword and Triforce power ready here to fire off some range techniques. "You kidding us; Of course we can!" Bocolix spoke off with a smirk as if stating that was a trick question to them. "Yeah, let's break them rocks to pieces!" Dumbledore nods in stating that the two goofy Alicorns will gladly help in breaking some rocks to pieces. Now this gang of travelers was not letting a few large falling rocks stop them, even Nyx transformed into her Battle Form to give better aid here. Little by little, from the dragon's firepower, Tough's gun aim to a few magical spells and some flying maneuvers from the other ponies of the group, managed to make the job seem pretty easy; if your either alicorns or an Earth Pony with a powerful element inside. After such a near particular experience, the gang was seeing the exit up ahead that would lead them out of this tricky canyon. "We're almost there, the exit, it's as clear as day." Spike spoke in noticing that just a few more miles away was the exit in which they would succeed in getting through Calamity Canyon. "Don't you mean night?" Phobos asked off a sudden random question out of nowhere. "Why would you say that Phobos," Nyx looked to her friend puzzled, it's still some daylight left, so why? "Hay, wait, he's right! Look, we're in a large shadow!" Dumbledore spoke from seeing a large shadow had covered their very being now. "And weren't we just in the daylight, too?" Bocolix asked off puzzled, this seemed really confusing to them now since everything was now dark as like the day was over. "Something's not adding up, no way is the timezone here any different when mom sets the sun for aunt luna to make it nighttime." Ben issue from having a weird feeling this was not the time of day to go night, he should know, but then why was it getting dark all around? "Then what…." Twilight was trying to figure something out…only to look up and feel shocked. "Oh no…." She slowly responded in sounding almost completely shock and stump in what she witnessed above. "Twilight….what's wrong with you," Ben asked from seeing his love was looking almost struck with fear, this earn the others' attention too. "That!" Twilight cried out to point at what she saw up ahead of their moving cart ride. Suddenly, above the gang's heads was not the skies turning dark. On the contrary, what it was was much more solid…more wider….more rocky. What was shown over the sun and passing to let light through was that what was decreasing was by far….A MOUNTAIN! Yes, it would appear that Calamity Canyon's last largest boulder to be seen near the end would be a tower of unbelievable magnitude that might be the greatest threat to stop. "GREAT CELESTIA! 'DAT THERE IS A MOUNTAIN-SIZED MONSTROSITY!" Tough Apple screamed out in terror, how can they even hope to avoid a mountain coming at them. "Twilight, tell us we can break that?" Spike asked the smart pony for an option here, if not, they are as good as…well he rather not say. "ARE YOU NUTS? LOOK AT THAT THING!" Phobos snapped to Spike like he lost it, that last boulder is too big even for them to stop. "Forget the size, just attack it!" Ben issued to the gang to forget the technical matters and just focus on destroying it before it gets too close. Soon, everypony was giving it everything to destroy that mountain size boulder. The dragons were firing their flames and Tough Apple fired his rifle, Ben used his Master Sword to fire Sword Beams. And from those that know the technique: The Unicorn Burst, Twilight, Adult Nyx, Dumbledore and Bocolix fired the spell to hopefully break the mountain. But alas, even such powerful spells were not showing signs of breaking through or destroying that which would take a mountain of sheer power and strength to destroy a mountain (boy, in some of the ponies' minds, they almost wish Boris the Black Devil was around…."almost", that is). "We're not even cracking its surface with our magic!" Dumbledore responded completely stump, just how thick was this rock anyway. "We're even trying that Unicorn Burst, but it's only made holes." Bocolix issued about using the strongest piercer magic, but they, Nyx and Twilight have managed to chip most of the larger pieces away while not getting the bigger bunch. "Holly-Frank, 'dis looks like we're plain crush done!" Tough Apple yelped to cover his noggin, this looks like the end of their road now. "Keep trying, don't give up….we have to keep fighting, we have to….WE HAVE TO!" Ben tried to keep everyone to not give hope as he was charging up his sword to unleash his energy in this next shot. Soon Ben fired a Sword Beam to try to break the rock and watched it fad from a tiny impact. It looked like that tiny bit couldn't do anything and nothing would stop the island size boulder….or would it? "SLASH!/Breakfruvhmmm…." But then in an instant, the giant island size marvel was instantly sliced in half, clean across by some…sharp blade. But how, "Kapowfruvhmmm…." Then both halves impacted separated spots away from the gang while they were passing through to see such cleavage in the center of the rock. By now, everyone's mind was on one thing only; what just happened. "Hey everypony; we're okay!" Nyx issued to say to the rest that they were not dead, they made it out okay. "HOORAY!" The others cheered in feeling they managed to escape that terrible dilemma by sheer luck, boy, it's a wonder if anypony could get by in the End of Equestria from something like that. "Ben, how'd you pull off such a miracle?" Twilight asked her love from seeing he was the last to attack that large island size rock, how did he do such a feat in cutting it in half. "Well, Twilight, I gotta be honest with you and everyone. I have no idea, that move was nowhere near what I tried to do." Ben spoke in honestly saying that he wasn't the one that broke that large rock in half, it seemed like it was…done by an unnoticeable source, but what. "Wait, it isn't from you? Then who did it?" Spike was now very concerning, if Ben from his special power or his special sword didn't slice that large mountain size island, then what in Celestia's name did? "Who cares! So long as we get out of this calamity zone and out into the safe zone!" Phobos waved off such a matter that if the group can get out of here first, then they'll be able to live and learn about such issues later. "The Moon Dragon fella's right, let's chit-chat when we're safely away fro' 'dis." Tough Apple nods in agreement, the sooner the group leaves this canyon of falling rocks the better, especially since they rather not go against a second mountain to come out of nowhere. "Agreed," The Enforcers nods in agreement to Tough Apple, they rather not wanna go through a spot where their lives, especially Twilight's life, will be in anymore danger. Ben was very much in deep thought while they were coming out of Calamity Canyon. Celestia's son couldn't help but wonder if maybe someone was helping them, but then again, who would they be, friends, enemies, he doesn't know. The issue about Dumbledore and Bocolix were on a good term pair of allowing these Enforcers to tag along to help their journey, then that mysterious masked stallion Twilight saw that helped her when a surviving Hydra head tried to get her. Question remains now, is if this was a new individual around the End of Equestria, and also….if this character is seriously strong enough to slice a mountain in half perhaps. These questions….will be answered eventually in Ben's mind. The group's rescue was witnessed by three familiar Mystic Ponies. Jade looks dumbfounded as she ask, "Who did that?" Dragon Kick, recognizing, gasp, "That move; could it be -" Tao smiles as he finishes for Dragon Kick, "Yes, Dragon Kick. An old friend of yours has come upon my request." "Hiko Seijiro." Dragon Kick said. So Hiko is still around! Jade gasp in excitement, "The super samurai pony; cool, let's meet him at once!" "And ruin the surprise lesson for Ben? I don't think so, Jade." Tao said sternly to Jade. "Besides, I had planned the meeting for him and others as soon as they reached the last two ingredients." "So uncool. Again," Jade groans a bit, she never gets any fun anymore! "Now, don't you two have some assignment to do?" Tao ask, reminding the two of an assignment that they must be doing. "Of course, uncle; I'll keep an eye on Ponyville while Jade does hers, both her homework and helping Might Heart in performing protection spell." Dragon Kick commented. Jade groans angrily. So unfair! ------------------- Pinkamena is reading and a knife balanced on her nose. She says while sensing something, "Well seems like the gang are now heading out to get the other ingredients but might get into more danger and I think there are more than just Tao helping us." Golden Heart nods as he said, "I see but for now we will just have to wait." Pinkamena nods while lifting her nose, sending the knife into the air then catches it with her teeth and, with her mouth, flings the knife at a target getting a bullseye. "Man I hate to be the enemy in your line of sight." Pinkamena just smiles and goes back to reading. The pink Pinkie lookalike comments, "Indeed but I will let you know if anything new happens." "Ok." ----------------------- A while after getting out of the Calamity Canyon safe and sound, Twilight and her family had arrived at a river. The alicorn mare sighs, "Well, getting out from canyon sure put us in dire situation." "In other words, we're so thirsty." Spike said. It's true, the gang is getting thirsty. "Do you think it's good to drink the river?" Nyx ask her mother while glancing at the river. "We're already out of our drinks again." Ben sniff the river. Then he frowns while saying, "I'm not very sure of that yet." Tough lick and drank bits of it. He spits out and look disgusted from it while snapping, "By 'de taste o' 'de drinks, Ah'd say yuck!" "Why drink the river when you had somepony bringing drinks here?" A familiar voice spoke up. Everyone yelp and they turn, seeing Tao on top of a rock, drinking tea. "Tao," Everyone exclaims in surprise. Where did Tao came from this time?! "Wouldn't kill you to stop that?!" Spike scowls at Tao in annoyance. That old pony keeps on coming out from hiding like that. Very irritating! Tao grins as he answers, "Didn't Twilight told you? It's just my coincidence habit. I like to appear and disappear, young Spike." Phobos groan, "This is getting annoying." Tao hits his head, making him yelp in pain. "Respect your elders, Phobos. Or I'll call you another name." "Sorry, old pony Tao." Tao, satisfied, motions to the drinks, saying to the group, "Come, have some good drinks. Green tea tastes good." Everyone get their drinks to fill their thirsts. Nyx saw a bottle. As she was about to open it, Tao took the bottle away. The old pony then passes Green Tea to Nyx. "I'm afraid this drink is off limits, Nyx." "Why?" Nyx ask Tao puzzled. "Because this is alcoholic wine from Land of Ma; although it tastes good for grown-ups, it's bad for young foals and fillies like you. It might create complex, as well as giving ponies out of focus and talk about something that doesn't make sense. So I suggest you should not drink it." "Hope yew don't mind if Ah take it?" Tough ask while glancing at the bottle, "Maybe some o' them too." "Don't mind if I do, Tiger Warrior." Tao said as he pass the bottle to Tough. Tough took and drank one bottle, followed by another and the next. He drank about 30 bottles. Everyone but Tao was shocked and surprised of it. This is one tough pony whose can hold his liquor! "Wow." Bocolix whistles in amazement. Dumbledore nods in agreement, saying, "Didn't see that coming." "Didn't know you actually like it, Tough." Ben said impressed of how Tough was able to keep that stuff down. Tough smirked while explaining, "When Ah was still Black Pony, Ah'd always go and get a cup of drink o' 'dis stuffs. They're kinda helped me git off some bad day an' memories." "But wouldn't that get you in trouble?" Twilight ask Tough, worried that his drinking would cause more harm than good. "Well, yeah. Yew've got a point. Still, Ah gotten used 'ta it because Ah've won contests drinking wines an' alcoholic drinks fer four times. Ah withstand 'dat stuff. After all, mah temper git that stupid bad mind off o' mah head. So no worries," Tough burp loudly, "Pardon me, folks. 'Dat taste good." "I see. An interesting ability and skill, you had display, Tiger Warrior." Tao said, impressed. "You know there is a warrior from my old home who drank that too." "Really?" "His name is Warpath Temper. Although he is not the cleverest or brightest, his temper is his weapon to defeat his enemies. Drinking wines calms and makes him better, and even making him smart, although it often cause him some trouble if he drank the wrong types of wine. But you, you had withstood the drinks despite drinking 20 different bottles of it; Impressive." "So, yer're saying 'dat Ah'm better than Warpath because Ah can handle any kind o' alcoholic drinks?" Tough ask Tao, arching an eyebrow at what the old pony is suggesting here. "Indeed. My advice to you is proves your stand and worth to a dangerous opponent who underestimate the drunken warrior whom has a great rage of fire." Tao said, giving out advice once more. "In English, pal?" Ben explains clearly to his friend, "I think he means that even though you're drunk, your temper helps you fight and focus no matter what happens and what drinks you had." "Wow. Thanks fer 'de comment," Tough said, a bit thankful for the comment given to him. "Think we can handle the drinks?" Spike asks Phobos eagerly while glancing at the drinks. "Let's try it!" Phobos exclaims excitedly. The two Dragons were about to help themselves, but a glare from Twilight stops them. The purple Alicorn snaps sternly to the two, "Don't even think about that, you two." Spike and Phobos protest to Twilight in disappointment, "Why not?!" "You guys are still babies. In fact, the more you drink them, the crazier you get. So don't try it." Ben said to the two Dragons sternly. Even baby Dragons can't keep themselves from going crazy from that wild stuff. "Fine!" "Call me crazy when I drank this." Bocolix groans while he hiccups a bit. The Alicorn looks up and notice something. "I think the old pony's gone." Bocolix hiccup once more. "No kidding." Dumbledore said as he hiccups as well. Sure enough, Tao is gone. Everyone looked at Bocolix and Dumbledore; both looked crazy, dizzy and tired from drinking the wines and beers. Phobos rolls his eyes while remarking, "I don't know who's crazy: two pinheads or Tao." "I'd take Bocolix and Dumbledore." Spike said with a shrug. Tough chuckle, "Ah guess these fellas can't handle 'de drinks." Just then like before, a familiar voice came out from out of nowhere, "A drunken warrior possessed rage of fire shall smite the arrogant warrior of Thunder." "What 'de-?!" "A drunken warrior possessed rage of fire shall smite the arrogant warrior of Thunder." Tough blinks a bit as he remarks in confusion, "Wow, Nelly; Now, Ah'm hearing 'dis." Now the pony is hearing what others had been hearing many times before. "So, Tough, what did the voice said?" Nyx ask Tough, wondering what riddle that the group has gotten this time. "He said 'A drunken warrior possessed rage o' fire shall smite 'de arrogant warrior o' Thunder'. Ah had no idea what he means." "Whatever it was, be prepared. Coz, we're about to face a dangerous battle." Twilight said in concern. Looks like a dangerous battle is about to be coming up very soon and the heroes must be prepared for what's coming up next. ----------------- The group goes through the next area which is called 'Alcoh's Drunken Caverns', a cavern surrounded by a strange bronze mist, they say that any who inhale the stuff, will be induce with whiskey drink that's 83% alcohol, very strong liquor. Rumor has it, that no matter how heavy a drinker one is, that's a liquor guaranteed to leave anyone drop-dead drunk. They say that the cavern's rocky surfaces have collected enough mist around that when excavated can be used to crush the minerals to collect the liquor mix in the structure. Fortunately, the group does their best not to inhale the stuff at all cause. As they move onward, they spot a pond nearby. "At least, we found the very good pond to drink." Bocolix commented, licking his lips at the sight of the water. Dumbledore nods as he comments, "No alcoholic, no beers and no green teas; Just fresh water." "Well, better collect it." Spike suggests. The gang may need some water before moving onward. "Drinking time," Phobos exclaims eagerly. The Moon Dragon then stops as he smells something in the water, "Well, I smell something funny." "Let's drink it before we head off. Besides, this place makes me thirsty." Twilight said, needing a drink of her own right now. Bocolix, Dumbledore, Spike and Phobos went and drank some water from the pond. Twilight, Ben and Nyx were about to drink as wellwhen Tough is heard yelling, "Stop!" This stops the three from drinking the water just in the nick of time. "What's wrong, Tough?" "'Dat water is not water, partner! It's 'de alcoholic water!" Everyone yells out in alarm, "What?!" Everypony but Tough were shocked to hear this.. Bocolix, Dumbledore, Spike and Phobos spits the water out. "Oh boy," Bocolix groans as he hiccups once more like mad. "Here we go again!" "Why there's," Dumbledore made a hiccup, "two of you?" Spike sniffs the water and groans in disgust, "Yuck! Phobos's right. This stuff stinks! I'm glad that I took a sip of it." Phobos nods, "No kidding. I think I drank too much of it." The Moon Dragon felt very dizzy as he danced weirder and crazily. Nyx in worry ask Tough, "What's that, Tough?" What is this stuff that is alcoholic and causing Phobos and the new Alicorns to act more weirder than usual? "'Dat alcoholic water may look like water, but wit; 'dat smell o'f it, Ah'd say it's a bad sign." Tough explains to Nyx in concern. "Trust me, kid; 'Dat drink taste a lot o' worse than any beers an' alcoholic stuff. It even makes old ponies an' kids go crazy 'ta do something stupid. Ah've tried it but Ah got drunk. Ah was lucky 'ta go someplace 'ta go crazy. But there's another way 'ta git snapped out o' it: something unexpected happening." Ben sigh in relief, "Thanks for the save, Tough. Or else we'll be drunk, well counting Bocolix and Dumbledore out." "Most impressive, cowpony," A voice spoke up sinisterly. Everyone turn and look up to see a new Demon entering the battle field. "You sure have your ways to know your drinks. And you ruin my plan again!" "Who's that?!" Nyx gasps in alarm. Another one of the Demon Lords, no doubt! Twilight gasp as she recognizes the Demon in general, "It's Tchang Zu the Demon Lord of Thunder." "That's bad, right?" Spike asks Twilight nervously. "I'm seriously," Phobos hiccup a bit, "not wanting to hear it." Tchang Zu roll his eyes as he explains, "I was hoping to get every pony drunk, especially Nightmare Moon. She likes wines a lot when she was one of us." Everyone, and even Nyx looked disgusted at what Tchang Zu had said. Spike and Phobos, after the Moon Dragon returns to himself, yells in shock, "Say what?!" Bocolix shook his head before returning to normal, protesting, "That is wrong!" Dumbledore returns to normal after shaking his head out. He agrees while saying, "A kid like her drink that kind of stuff. Yuck!" "Okay, first, my name is Nyx! And second, I do not drink wines! My parents forbid it, pal!" Nyx snaps to Tchang Zu angrily. Why can't these dumb Demon Lords get the hint already?! "Like Tough said, this stuff's are not good for me!" Tchang Zu chuckle, "Guess what, Nightmare Moon? You don't need permission from them because you're coming with me." "Think again, Tchang Zu. We won't let you take her away again!" Twilight exclaims as she stood in front of her daughter. The mare won't let any monster take her baby from her ever again! Ben stood near Twilight, saying sternly, "We've beaten some of the Demon Lords, so we can beat you!" Tchang Zu angrily yells, "You dare mock the Demon Lords?! Nightmare Moon belongs to the Demon Lords. You all shall pay for your treacheries! Take this; Thunder Spear!" Tchang Zu threw thunder shaped in spear-like and fired right at Twilight and her gang. They quickly split up. Nyx transform into her Battle Mode. They armed themselves while preparing for battle. Tchang Zu roar before he jump down to the ground. Tchang Zu took the large gourd out. He swoop the alcoholic water up. He drank it as much as he can. Everyone was shocked to see this happening. Tchang Zu roars madly, "Who dares to challenge me?" "Attacking head on is a bad idea." Twilight suggests to her group in concern, knowing that attacking Tchang Zu head on is suicide. "We will blast at him from the distant." Twilight, Bocolix, Nyx and Dumbledore fire their magic at Tchang Zu for many times as they blasted. The Demon remains still as he slowly approached his enemies. Twilight gasps. She shook her head before she continue to fire her magic, along with Bocolix, Dumbledore and Nyx, at Tchang Zu. Tchang Zu chuckle. Spike and Phobos attack him from his back by firing their Moon and Dragon Rage. His head was burnt. Tchang Zu growl as he turned and glared at the two Dragons; they gulp as the villain declares, "Prepare to face your punishment, traitor; Thunder Spear!" Tchang Zu threw two thunders at Spike and Phobos who scream in panick as they quickly run away. Tchang Zu threw lightning shaped weapons at Spike and Phobos as many as he can. The two Dragons yelp in pain when their tails got burned. That really hurt! Phobos quickly uses the fan to blow the burning parts of his and Spike's tails. The Moon Dragon yelps in pain, "Ouch! Ow! OW! If you think Dai Gui is the worse, try this guy!" "For once, we're agree," Spike yelps in agreement. Tchang Zu threw one big thunder at Spike and Phobos. They scream in panick just before the impact. The two turn into black burnt as they felt very dizzy, just before the two Dragons fainted on the ground. Tchang Zu approach while raising his hands up high. He fires his lightning strikes at Dumbledore and Bocolix. They shout painfully like if the two Alicorns sat in electric chairs. Tchang Zu grab Dumbledore and Bocolix's back legs up high. He starts hitting them on the ground, rocks and even water for few times. The Demon then hit the two both on their heads. Tchang Zu drop them down as Bocolix and Dumbledore moan in pain. He then stomp on their stomachs tight and hard. Tchang Zu mumble softly, "This is what you get for attacking us, traitors." Tchang Zu grabs Bocolix's and Dumbledore's tails. He swung them around and around for few times before the Demon threw them into the pond. "Not again." Bocolix yelps as he hiccup, getting drunk once more. "Hey, look at me," The fool hiccup once more. "I'm a donkey." "Really," Dumbledore groans as he hiccup as well. "I thought I'm the bird." The alicorn made another hiccup. Tough blasts at Tchang Zu with his gun; the villain turns and approach the Earth pony, preparing on attacking him next. "Unicorn Blast," Twilight yells out a familiar attack. "Night Blast," Nyx yells out her attack. "Sword Beam," Ben exclaims in determination. The three of them fire together at Tchang Zu. Tough tried to shoot around him to get the Demon distracted. Tchang Zu yelps in pain. He then laugh evilly and then approached them slowly. "Is that the best you can do? Your mere powers are meaningless." Tchang Zu taunts his enemies sinisterly. "Something tells me it's not working!" Nyx exclaims to her friends and family in worry. They need another plan in hopes to stop this creep! "This is not good." Ben said in concern. The ponies' group will have to find Tchang Zu's Mystical Banishment Instrument to beat him. Twilight kept on the attack on Tchang Zu, yelling out to the others, "Keep fighting! We can't let him win! I won't let him get you both!" The three of them keep on firing at Tchang Zu. Tchang Zu caught Tough before throwing him into the pond. The Demon then turns and threw three thunders at Twilight, Ben and Nyx. They got shocked literally. He unleashed his lightning strikes at them, causing the tro to scream painfully. Their animal friends whimper upon seeing how cruel and evil Tchang Zu is. He stops firing his lightning strikes as Twilight, Ben and Nyx fell to the ground. Tchang Zu laughs evilly as he approach the defeated ponies. Twilight, Ben and Nyx tried to get up but struggled. It looks like it's really over this time. Tchang Zu chuckle, "You're persistent and stronger than I realized. No wonder Tso Lan wants you two alive as well as getting rid of you, princess." Tchang Zu then summons the lightning from the cloud. They fired at Twilight, Ben and Nyx. The trio screamed in pain while Tchang Zu laughs evilly. "This is where I avenge my comrades' defeat. I'll be taking them now, princess." "No!" Twilight protests to Tchang Zu. She won't lose Ben and Nyx, not to these Demon Lord monsters! Ben snaps angrily to Tchang Zu, "I won't join your side!" "I won't become Nightmare Moon!" Nyx exclaims painfully yet kept on defying. For a moment, it looks like nothing can stop Tchang Zu...until something unexpected happen. A rock hit Tchang Zu hard causing him to stop his attack. He grow in anger as the Demon slowly turn and glare at Tough who is now out of the pond. Twilight, Ben and Nyx gasp in worry, concerned as to how this will go down. "Impossible!" Tchang Zu exclaims angrily. The Demon thought that Tough was done for! "Bob, yer're barking at 'de wrong tree." Tough declares to Tchang Zu in determination. "What will you do? You're just an ordinary pony. You just stood in everyone's way. Trust me, I can break you into pieces, or even hurting something stupid precious of yours, drunken." "Okay, bob. Ah don't mind being beaten up. But hurting mah precious; Yer're talking about Joe, Nyx and some o' mah pony friends, aren't yew?" Tchang Zu laughs as he taunts his enemy, "What if I am? Trust me, you're just drunken, and there is nothing you-" Tough punch at Tchang Zu's face, causing him to yelp in pain before the Demon fell to the ground. The Earth pony stallion snaps, "Watch yer mouth, pal; Ah may have drink wines an' beer, but Ah ain't drunk; Yer're messing wit' 'de wrong pony, bob!" Tchang Zu groans as he gets up, "Clearly, I had underestimated a mere pony. It seems you handled the alcoholic well." Tchang Zu took the gourd out. He took as much alcoholic water then drank the first half. He then passed it to Tough who look confused at it. "A warrior needs a drink like this before the fight. Let us see who will be the one handled the alcoholic: me or you." Tough drank the other half then burp. He wipes the water off from his mouth. As Tough threw the gourd away, Tchang Zu declares, "Let's rumble, pony." "Bring it on, lizard face," Tough roar in determination. Tough and Tchang Zu charges at once; They started their fight as the two punched at each other's faces and bodies many times. Tchang Zu hits Tough to the wall. Just before the villain could punch at his face, Tough moved to his right. He grabs Tchang Zu and threw him into the pond. Tough yells angrily as he jump up and smack Tchang Zu down. Tough starts punching at Tchang Zu as many times as he can; The Demon then grab Tough and drag him to the pond. Tchang Zu push Tough into the pond then starts punching him; Tough strike back at Tchang Zu by grabbing him down into pond and beating him down. Both Tough and Tchang Zu did the same routine for a few times. The two fighters Zu held tightly and hardly as they pushed each other like mad. Twilight, her family, Bocolix and Dumbledore, after recovering from being drunk were shocked while watching the mad battle. The purple Alicorn declares in amazement, "We're glad to have Tough with us." Ben nods, commentating, "With a temper like his, he can sure beat that no good Demon." Nyx cheers on her friend like mad, "Go Tough! Go!" Spike cheers on Tough as well, "Beat that no good Demon Lord!" "Teach that Demon lessons!" Phobos cheers wildly. Tough could win this fight! Bocolix cringes at how hard Tough punched Tchang Zu next, causing him to comment to his colleague, "I'm not sure if I want to face him again in the future." Dumbledore shudders, remarking, "Let's try not to fight with him the next time." "I wonder if the riddle has to do with this," Twilight ask thoughtfully. Perhaps that riddle that they heard a while ago is the key to stopping Tchang Zu. "I think it is. 'A drunken warrior possessed rage of fire shall smite the arrogant warrior of Thunder.'" Ben said, recalling how the riddle went. "I think that drunk warrior who possessed rage of fire is Tough." "Tchang Zu is the arrogant warrior of Thunder. He's got overconfident in winning, just because Tough's a drunken Earth Pony." "That's what he gets for messing with the wrong pony." Nyx remarks playfully and happily. Tchang Zu and Tough continue to fight and beating nonstop and continuously. Tchang Zu growl in anger as his hand is charging up with electric. He then punch at Tough's muzzle up high, just before he landed into the pond. In the pond itself, Tough himself felt very dizzy and tired. He then notices something. Tough saw a castanet; He grabbed it and got out from the pond, coughing out loud. He then stares at the castanet. "What in tarnation?" Tough ask puzzled, wondering what the castanet is for. Suddenly a familiar voice spoke up, "Dance like beautiful swan, Demon Lord shall fall to it." "Yew've gotta be kidding me!!!" "Do you wish to defeat Demon Lord?!" The voice scolds, sounding like a certain old pony that the heroes knew. Tough nods, "Then, dance like a swan!" Tough growls and mumbles angrily as he quickly stood up; Tchang Zu approach him from behind. Twilight, her family and friends became very worried. As Tough turned around, Tchang Zu drank another large sip from the pond while Tough did the same as they both glare at each other. "Impressive. You're indeed good at alcoholic drinks. But I'm better." Tchang Zu boasts to his opponent arrogantly. "Prepare to meet your fate, drunken Earth Pony!" Tough glare at Tchang Zu and growl in anger, "Okay, bob; Yew had made a big apple mistake. Ah don't mind me calling Black Pony, Stubborn Pony an' Stupid Pony! But calling me 'Drunken Pony'; Yer're dead meat, partner!" Tough and Tchang Zu glared at each other, and they're ready to fight. Tough took the castanet out and said in Mexican, "Hola Senor!" The heroes look confused, what the hay? Tough starts dancing while playing his castanet; Tchang Zu was shocked while Twilight and her family were surprised and shocked. Bocolix looks confused as he asks the others, "Is it just me or is Tough playing around?" Dumbledore answers in bewilderment, "I think so. But this is fighting, not ballerina!" "Wait, guys! What if dancing and playing castanet are actually...." Spike begins to say, starting to realize what's truly going on here. Phobos finish Spike's deduction, "Mystic Banishment Ingredients!" Nyx nods as she cheers on Tough, "Come one, Tough; Dance; Dance!" "He'd better act fast!" Twilight exclaims in worry. Tchang Zu may snap out of his stupor and snap Tough's neck at any given moment! "Tchang Zu may try to run away or attack Tough!" Ben exclaims in worry. But the hero spoke too soon. "I will destroy you!" The Demon roars in fury. Tchang Zu threw multiple thunders right at Tough while he continue to dance and playing the castanet as fast as he can. Suddenly a familiar voice boomed out, "Yu Mo Gwai Gwaai Fai Di Zao! Yu Mo Gwai Gwaai Fai Di Zao! Yu Mo Gwai Gwaai Fai Di Zao!" The castanet glows in green. Tough stop dancing as his castanet shielded Tough from the thunders. It then fire and blast at Tchang Zu right back, making him yell in pain. The door appears and drag Tchang Zu in, much to his shock and horror. Tchang Zu screams, "Curse you Earth Pony! How can I be defeated by a drunken Earth Pony?! Curse yoouuuu!" The portal closed down after Tchang Zu got in. Twilight and her family cheer happily as they quickly approach Tough. But before they could, Tough put his hoof in front, snapping embarrassingly to them, "Tell anypony about this, Ah kill yew!" Spike smiles as he said, "Wow, easy, Tiger Warrior. We're going to say that was awesome." "Yeah, for a bad temper pony, you sure got good moves." Phobos exclaims in awe and amazement. Those moves Tough has done were able to help in the defeat of Tchang Zu! "Besides, Tough, you're great! You're not a drunk; you're an expert of alcoholic drinks!" Nyx exclaims happily to Tough. "If you hadn't told us about it, we would have become drunk." "Well, we got that twice!" Bocolix exclaims, embarrassed by the stupid mistake that he and Dumbledore has done twice though is scared by Tough's reaction. "Just don't hit us! We won't tell anyone!" "We like it! Don't kill us!" Dumbledore exclaims, scared of what Tough would do to him and his pal. "I guess we owe it to the voice again." Twilight said with a smile, knowing that the voice once again helped in the defeat of another Demon Lord. "Yeah, well done, buffalo Demon." Ben said, praising Tough for his victory. Tough scratch the back of his mane, saying sheepishly, "Oh sucks; don't. Ah'm flattered. But tell nopony, especially Feathermay, about mah moves." Everyone smile as they all said sincerely, "We won't." "Ah wonder if de voice actually makes up der dancing part?" Far away from the ponds of Alcoh's Drunken Cavern, Tao smiled while chuckled, “While the castanet is the Mystic Banishment Ingredient to banish Demon Lord of Thunder, dancing, I made that up. I just want to punish him for being rude to me when we first met at the Lake of Eternal. His dancing is very funny." ----------------------------------- Tso Lan and Tchang Zu had a discussion after the later came back following his defeat. The Demon felt humiliation for being beaten, especially by a drunk Earth pony whose can sing and dance! "I had failed. Not only was I defeated by the ponies, but I failed to retrieve the information about the Mystic Pony. I deserve punishment." Tchang Zu said, willing to accept punishment for his defeat. Tso Lan however wave off the request as he say, "Do not worry, Tchang Zu. Remember, Nightmare Moon has yet to leave." "What is your next plan, brother?" "Whenever they go, Nightmare Moon and her family will face greater and dangerous challenges ahead. When they do, they shall fall by the wrath of Demon Lords. Both she and Ben will be mine to control. Come, let us gathered our siblings and see where these fools are heading." Tso Lan and Tchang Zu left at once while Shendu appear from behind like phasing out from his shadow. The monster whisper to himself, "It appears you had failed, Tchang Zu. For an arrogant and overconfident Demon Lord, you never learn to control your personality well; Pitiful. I truly am." Shendu continue to glance at Tso Lan. "Tso Lan, you're not the only Demon Lord who wants something return to you. I too wish Spike return to me. This is for you, Tadaka and Lorcan. I shall make Spike a Demon that you both had desired. I will avenge your deaths. I will complete our revenge, starting with the one who raised him to become a slave: Twilight Sparkle." Shendu disappear from sight. This matter is not yet over.