Chapter 5: The Clone Aftermath
Twilight's group arrived and saw Flare Tiger and Comet Star waiting for them as they entered the library. After putting Chase on the couch to rest until the group can get him home, they begin to talk to each other.
"Flare Tiger; Hey," Rainbow said to Flare Tiger with a smile.
"Are you okay?" Flare Tiger ask her friends in concern.
"We are now. Thanks for sending Tao and the Mystic Ponies after us."
"Ah am sorry. Ah know you wish to avoid his Mystic Phoenix Temper...but Ah have a feeling you all need some help."
"Well, I'm glad you did." Ben remarks to Flare Tiger with a light chuckle. "At least now, we managed to escape that problem with our lives still intact...as well as the clones' as well."
Pinkamena and Golden Heart were hidden for a bit talking with Omega. The pink pony asks in surprise, "Wait, you're saying that Chase and Shadow might be the same?"
"Well my scans showed they both are the same but I think there's something a mist." Omega explains. "They share the same lifeline and are similar; it might mean that Shadow might really be Chase."
"Ok but how about we wait. Once Ben gains the Lens of Truth, then once he does, little Chase's little trick will be gone and then we strike but for now we wait."
Omega nods as they go back to the gang.
“AYIIIEEEEEHHHH,” A sudden scream interrupts the moment inside the lib ray where the Mane Six group was having a moment with their clone friends making nice recuperation when Tao & his family are seen coming in. “What is the meaning of this?”
“Tao, hey, when you get here?” Spike spoke off in remembering this Mystic Pony.
“Never mind that, start talking. I need an explanation on the circumstance.” Tao spoke off to wave off the topic to demand an answer here.
“Yes, we heard about a Dark Mystic being spotted here.” Mighty Heart nods to say that they heard about news involving the Dark Mystics and became worried.
“So we had to make sure there weren’t any trying to perform any acts in town or involving the Mystic Shield.” Dragon Kick explained the manner of what they had to do during such a time.
“But more importantly, what happened to you all? And….your lookalike clones?” Jade Adventure raised an eyebrow on the other part, since they heard about Twilight cloning the Mane Six; it’s weird, but interesting to say the least. "Actually, Dragon Kick and I didn't tell Granduncle yet. We preferred if you tell the whole story about what happened yourselves."
“Well, it’s a long story, but since we’re slowly coming around, may as well tell.” Ben shrugs off his shoulders in seeing that the group may as well explain what happened to them.
Soon at the moment, the gang have explained everything that has gone on. From when Azuma lead them to find the Dark Mystics’ hideaway in an abandon facility, where Tech was gonna use the Clone Six for their army, how they fought, and how thanks to Azuma’s team working with his clones, pulled off a win, a rescue, and saved them before he blew up the enemy’s base of operations. Right down to the part where they came back to the library to help their clone friends from having one exhausting experience.
“And that’s how we managed to get out & save the clones.” Ben finished off to say how they ended up getting out of danger and helping their new clone friends.
“Hmmm….come closer, I need to tell you something…verrrrry important.” Tao hummed to himself in absorbing this before asking that the others come to gather near him, as he wishes to tell them something important.
The gang heard this and gathers near Tao…only for him to whack the Mane Six, Ben, Spike, Phobos & Nyx’s foreheads. “Ow!” The gang yelped from getting the scolds service of Tao.
“Are You Bliiiinnnnnd,” Tao shouted off loud in accepting this info while sounding upset about it. “Immortal Ponies Must Defeat, Immortal Ponies! You fought that which you weren’t ready for!” He scolds the gang for facing an enemy that they were not ready to face just yet.
“Are you kidding? We smoked those guys!” Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow in protesting that they were capable of handling such a foe.
“Did they lay beaten in defeat, hmmm?” Tao raised an eyebrow in questioning if the gang even ‘did’ such a feat or not.
“Well…ugh,” Rainbow was silent in knowing, the heroes held off the Dark Mystic Warriors, but they never did end the battle.
“Well in honesty, we did only catch them off guard an' they were only temporally buried under rubble. Well, some o' them.” Applejack rubbed the back of her neck in admitting the truth of the matter itself. "Then Shadow Dragon an' more clones appear, knocking Ben, Azuma and Pinkamena's Elements out, try 'ta kill us...an' if it weren't fer 'de group yew send, our enemies would've won."
A concerned princess spoke up, "Tao......... I can explain this!"
"Do not worry. I just have to say this." Tao said seriously. Twilight and her friends leaned closer to the old Mystic Pony as he spoke, "The next time you tried to do something like this ever again, consult me first! Oh dear Lauren. You are lucky that Chase inform us about it in time. Otherwise, Ben, Azuma and all of you would have been killed. Not to mention, Houndkiller could have taken his Element of Duplication back."
"Chase informed you? Why? And what do you mean about Houndkiller getting his Element of Duplication back?"
"If he did not, I wouldn't have created the Reverse Spell in time for your friends or their Element would have been shut down for good. As for Houndkiller, he was the predecessor of that element. Houndkiller will do anything to get his Element power back."
Twilight sighed, "Sorry."
Tao sigh right back as he spoke, "Please, Twilight. If you ever do something 'curious', consult and ask me first before you do anything foolishly. Or else, thing could have become the worst."
Twilight sighed again, feeling terrible since the events that occurred was a bit of her own fault, "I understand."
Tao sighed, "Now, what's we do with them? We can't keep them forever."
Flare Tiger chuckled, "Why not let mah family help them out?"
They looked at Flare Tiger with shocked looks.
Twilight asked, "Are you sure about this?"
Comet Star smiled while speaking, "Our herd talked about it, and they're agreed to help them out, which is more safely for them. We have everything they're want."
Flare Tiger sighed, "And for Solar Moonlight, Ah had to show her the ropes by assisting in helping her used and control her power over the sun and moon. Ah happened know about the sun and moon as well..."
Princess Celestia shocked ask, "What!?!"
Rainbow Dash realized as she quickly spoke up, "Oh, I remember! What's your element?"
The group leans to listen as Flare Tiger chuckled as Comet Star laugh out loudly then they calm down.
Flare Tiger smiled while explaining, "Dimensions."
Jade asked, "What's Dimensions?"
Azuma's eyes widen as he ask in a shocked matter,, "Don't tell me, You're Space and Time?"
Ben shocked asks, "What? That's meant..."
Twilight asked, "You can control the sun and moon?"
Flare Tiger smiled as she responds, "Surprise? Ah could do that! Ah should thank Pinkamena!"
The group looked at Pinkamena with wonder as she notice with confusion.
Pinkamena confused ask, "What? Why's you're thanking me for?"
Flare Tiger smiled as she responds, "Well, Ah could cut short story for ya!"
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Flare Tiger narrated, "Yes, Ah still remember mah first time, traveling along with mah father when Ah was eight years old, that's due to mah father who came to pick up me up."
Hunter Iron Shield came to pick up Flare Tiger for a trip to the Dragons' area as to explore the land. Flare Tiger decided to take walked around when her father head to the cave to find the gemstones that Sapphire Rose asked for as Flare Tiger enjoy her surroundings.
But her enjoying this moment isn't lasting longer, a blurry pink appeared from nowhere as Flare Tiger did sense quickly at the same time and is able to jump out of the way. They land distance from each other as the fighters looked up and saw each other. The stranger saw how fast Flare Tiger and is able to do from her dodge from the stranger's attack. Flare Tiger's able see the stranger's figure: her mane and tail is dark pink as straight down, her eyes is light blue and her body is pink, only one thing she can't see was her cutie mark because the stranger worn a cloak.
Flare Tiger confused demands, "Who are ya; Why ya attacked me for no reason!?!"
The stranger answers, "I'm Pinkamena Diana Pie, and I believe you did something to my spell of the dimension hopping!"
Flare Tiger growled, "Ah'm nothing done to ya' spells! Ah'm Flare Tiger, and let us be peaceful without fighting each other!"
Pinkamena shouted, "NEVER!"
Pinkamena attacked Flare Tiger but she kept dodging ever more because Flare Tiger didn't know how to fight yet. However, in the end, Pinkamena managed to cut the left side of her face. Flare Tiger knew that she's done for as she jump backward and gain more distance so she's able to teleport herself out. She's about to teleported as Flare Tiger saw Pinkamena charging at her. She panicked and got herself to teleport out of it.
Flare Tiger narrated, "And, Ah didn't knew it, mah element happened woke up due to Pinkamena's attack, it saved mah life and Ah decided to understand it, by studying it and listening to it."
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Flare Tiger smiled as she finishes her tale, "And that's how Ah realized it, Mah Element of the Dimensions holds two different elements; Space and Time, which is like balance."
Applejack sighed, "'Dat's explained everything!"
Pinkamena shocked ask "Seriously?"
Comet Star chuckled, "Seriously!"
Tao smiled while asking, "Well, anypony who agreed?"
The group mumble in agreement about let's Flare Tiger's herd helping the Six Clones.
“Anyway, as I was saying before I was interrupted, then you know that you just got lucky, if they were serious competitors, you would have stood no chance!” Tao scolded sternly to this group in not realizing how close they were to losing if their luck didn’t hold out.
“But what about Ben, Pinkamena & Golden Heart,” Rarity pointed off that their other friends managed to handle such things alright.
“As well as Nyx when she had her Battle Form Mode and we had Celestia & Luna,” Pinkie Pie pointed out other members that gave them an edge against the battle.
“Not to mention, Azuma was there, and he was really tough.” Nyx nods in knowing that they had a new element user that would make duplicate clones, and boy did he show that he was really tough, tougher than the Dark Mystics expected.
“They possess feats of stronger Alicorn magic to give them a little boost. While Ben, Pinkamena & Azuma have elements that they have mastered to unlock much of their potential to be capable of fighting the darkness, but only a small fracture of a hopeful means.” Mighty Heart explained the issue of how those that were more capable had more of a chance than the normal Equestrian ponies & Dragons.
“Yes, and if you fought against Ultimate Dark Mystic Warriors, it would have been a very bad day.” Dragon Kick shook his head with a serious look, that there are stronger enemies that the gang needs to be on the lookout for.
“So let's reveal, who were the creeps that tried to kidnap the clones that Twilight made?” Jade stated that they need to know who was it that the gang fought in the Dark Mystics' group, "Dragon Kick and I already knew but best to repeat to Granduncle and Mighty just in case."
“I have the data right here, I made a record of it all in Twilight’s little Enemy Guide Book, watch.” Discord appeared with Twilight’s Enemy Guide book, opened it up to a page that magically display a hologram of Tech. “Here’s the first Dark Mystic to be noticed, Tech, a genius in making tech & devices, robotic designs, but is not much a fighter, a bit cowardly and is a whiny mama’s colt.” He pointed out all the facts while stating the faults.
“I’M NOT WHINY!” The image of Tech was seen acting out just like the real deal.
“See, it even comes with a feature to sound just like him when he does that; that was for fun. On to the next bunch,” Discord responded before he flip the page to present magical images of the Dark Warrior Trio, “The Dark Warrior Trio; DJ Red, Shades and Clumsy Rat. A couple of lackeys of Dark Curse that serve as some minor group of Enforcers, but they can still be hard to handle in fights.” And once he was done with that, he turn the page to the last Dark Mystic, Black Tiger. “And lastly is Black Tiger, this one showed he was more tougher than the trio, and is very loyal, and he enjoys making battle cries of his attacks before performing them.” He explained all the facts about this guy, including his favorite hobby.
“Imaginative Creature Breaks Down His Prison…Gaaaughh!” The hologram of Black Tiger was about to make a move, but then Discord shut the book’s covers on it, thereby shutting & stopping the data of a meaningless effort.
“Again, that attack announcing liner was for fun and he can’t actual hurt any pony here, but I enjoy shutting him up even more.” Discord slyly smiles in pointing out the fact of why he did that while enjoying to clams up the Dark Mystic annoyance.
“Wow! I remember those guys; the Dark Warrior Trio & Black Tiger are guys that Uncle Dragon Kick fought off a lot during our adventures.” Jade spoke in recalling those guys from long ways back.
“To which I tried to keep you out of those dangers, Jade.” Dragon Kick narrow his eyes to his niece who huffed off that remote statement of being kept out of danger since she never listen.
“Yeah-yeah, as for Tech, pihhh, Shui, Ryan, Kasai & Texas handled him enough that he isn’t much a threat.” Jade rolled her eyes to issue that Tech was a guy that Tao’s students have faced plenty and he’s now big threat anyway.
“Well he sure wasn’t when he attacked with them Techbots.” Phobos rubbed his aching neck in recalling how Tech’s Techbots really seem to almost cream them when he appeared in Ponyville when he had the Clone Six under his control.
“That is because even though he is weak, he’s still a Dark Mystic and his tech has Dark Magic that made sure your efforts could not do much alone.” Tao pointed off in stating the obvious fact that the gang miss out on. “Only those of you that have stronger magic could damage such magic.” He stated the fact that unless these guys have enough magical power, they can’t break through Dark Mystic Magic properties so easily.
"There's Shadow Dragon and Houndkiller." Ben said in concern as Discord tries to activate those pages.
"Shadow Dragon: Information on him is unknown at this time." The book explains. "Houndkiller: Information about him is unknown."
"How could they be unknown right now?"
"Perhaps more info is given, nephew." Luna said to Ben in concern.
“So what were we suppose 'ta do? They came 'ta fight us?” Applejack asked off in how they should have done things, the enemy was there & attacking.
“You need to paaaaay attention!” Tao shouted off to scold the group in not heeding his words. “There are only THREEE Lords of Equestria, whose powers are currently fighting to gain control to dominate & rule & destroy.” He issued this grave manner of what these heroes are still not following.
“The order goes from 3rd place, to 2nd, and then 1st.” Mighty Heart points out from those at the bottom, and those strongest at the top. “Dark Mystics hold a level threat of being second place while below them is the new Apocalypse Ponies. And still reigning at the top is the Demon God himself, Grimmore.” Mighty Heart shivered on the last part, currently in terms of who’s the strongest, those that are rank of whose out ranks who. “Out of all other enemies that have come about & gone, it’s only through those three, they hold the highest priority.” He points out with a serious face about the serious dangers of only those three foes & their armies that possess more threats than any past or short coming enemies.
“Yes, at the very least, your best chance is to get stronger before facing the Dark Mystics again.” Dragon Kick nods in thinking the gang has to get stronger before facing against such powerful enemies once more.
“So we skip over, what’s the big deal?” Rainbow Dash shrug off her shoulders in not seeing the big picture if they were coming close to facing the second powerful foes in Equestria.
“The big deal is this; you need to slowly build up strength to compete against them.” Tao sternly explains to Rainbow Dash the seriousness of not being ready to face such foes as of now. “However, I have devised a plan that should this happen again, and if you come across Dark Mystics, I give you this advice.” He spoke calmly and wisely in having a way that if the Dark Mystics come again, Tao has something that can help the gang out.
“Really, then what is it?” Rarity spoke in hopeful look, what does Tao have that can help them against meeting a Dark Mystic.
“Simple. Don’t fight them.” Tao pointed out blankly of the matter if the gang run into a Dark Mystic, they shouldn’t fight them at all.
This caused everyone to almost have face faults at that moment. That was supposed to be helpful?
“Somehow Tao, I don’t think we can avoid that,” Ben sweatdrops at hearing that silly answer while they were trying to stand up here. "I got a feeling that Shadow Dragon will come after me again."
“Correct, which is why, I shall perform a little Mystic Magic coating on your weapons, to enhance them enough that they can protect you from Dark Mystic foes.” Tao declared off in what he shall do to help the group, by coating the gang’s weapons & gear so they can help handle Dark Mystic foes.
“Wow! You can do that?” Pinkie Pie asked off surprise by this news?
“Senshi and I have the proper spell, but we hoped not to use it until the Apocalypse Ponies were first dealt with, & you had enough strength to handle the magic.” Mighty Heart explained how they first hoped the new heroes would first take down one of the Three Lords and then focus on the Dark Mystics before handling Grimmore, but it seem they’ll have to change strategy.
“But seeing they are now acting instead of watching, we may have to act sooner.” Dragon Kick spoke with a serious face that if the enemy that they know is acting this quickly, they need to be acting quicker to.
“So lay out your stuff ponies, time for a little coating work.” Jade happily instructed the others in what they had to do here.
Soon the Mane Six lay out their items on a table when Tao & Mighty Heart were done casting some design & decoration stuff to prepare for a chanting spell to magically coat the things lay out to help protect & fight against Dark Mystic Ponies.
“Yu Mo Gwai Gwaai Fai Di Zao! Yu Mo Gwai Gwaai Fai Di Zao! Yu Mo Gwai Gwaai Fai Di Zao…” Tao & Mighty Heart were chanting their chant while waving blowfish & lizard items while the drawn seal on the table was set with candle light.
The items glowed a bright emerald aura that was seemingly effecting them, much to the gang’s amazement. By the time the chanting was over, did the two Mystic Ponies cease the chant, the magic faded and the stuff lay out was now looking like what they were before the free blowy works.
“The enhancement coating on your weapons, to protect & repel Dark Mystics & their magic…is done.” Tao humbly spoke in announcing that the deed is done, the others can take their stuff back now.
“Really; Hugh, can’t tell, they look the same to us.” Phobos spoke off to see the ponies take their things, but they don’t look any different. “Ow!” He cringed from getting his forehead whacked by Tao from the rudeness.
“If I say they have been magically coated, then they are magically coated!” Tao scolded the Moon Dragon for not believing that he did his work properly. “With this, you may fight & land more hurtful impacts & inflict great damage to Dark Mystics. But you must also remember, there will be others that are stronger that won’t go down so easily, and take time & teamwork to overcome such obstacles.” He points out a very important fact that must be kept on their minds for the future.
“We understand Tao, but…what about me and Ben?” Twilight nods in hearing this, but she wonders why she & Ben didn’t get their weapons coated by Mystic Magic.
“The StarBlade you can summon is plenty powerful to do well without my coating, keep practicing, and someday, it will be solid for you to easily hold.” Tao explained to the new princess of the weapon she was destined to wield, will be more helpful once she learns to solidify it better. “As for Ben Mare, his element & weapons are already as powerful & majestic to cause pain to Dark Mystics.” He pointed out how Ben’s power & weaponry have strong forces to help protect & fight evil; especially since Hope Dragon was once the wielder, and so they are already capable of harming evil beings.
“Yeah, boy, were we surprised to hear that you sledged Black Tiger with the Megaton Hammer and used your shield & boots to stop him to repel his charge. Any ordinary stuff against Dark Mystic forces wouldn’t have done half as well as what you did,” Jade nods in remembering how they heard how Ben really suckered it to Black Tiger with ways that not a lot of Equestrians could do.
“Jade’s right daddy, you did well, and I know you can continue to do well in the future.” Nyx smiled in feeling proud of her father.
“Thanks Nyx, that means a lot.” Ben smiled in patting his daughter’s head for the comment.
"Oh yeah; Now this is what I'm talking about; finally, gotten out from my drinks. Drinking sure makes me bored and tired. I'm glad I'm out." Warpath said, smiling a bit as he has gotten into battle after so long.
Heavy chuckles, shaking his head while saying, "Oh dad......."
"I'm glad you came and help us, though I was probably trying to get Blazefist but I can't." Tao remarks in concern, referring Blazefist than Warpath. "He was busy in his duty by Bladestrike."
"Well, on the plus side, Warpath is cool when he isn't drinking." Rainbow remarks with a shrug, remembering how Warpath has done so well.
"Right, very awesome." Spike remarks in agreement.
"As long as we stay on his good temper," Fluttershy said quietly.
"So, Warpath, do you.....you know....... lose temper and kill anyone because of being traitors, and even the foals?" Twilight ask in concern, remembering what was said of him.
Warpath thought for the moment before he chuckled out loud, "Ooh about that. I kinda got drunk, not my temper. As for the foals, I kinda spank them than just killing them."
"Seriously," Spike asks Warpath, arching an eyebrow at this. Bad move, this causes the Mystic Pony to get into his face, almost literally!
"You've got problem with that?!
"Nothing!"
"So you don't hate me? Because of me being Nightmare Moon," Nyx ask Warpath hopefully.
Warpath looks confused and surprise, responding, "Nightmare Moon?! You are the reincarnation of hers?!"
"Should have shut your mouth," Phobos mumbles a bit to Nyx, making her worried. Now she's in for it.
"I can't believe it. I'm actually meeting the sweet little angel!"
"Sweet Little Angel; you mean you don't hate me?" Nyx ask Warpath with another hopeful look on her face.
Warpath chuckles as he explains, "You're kidding me? After what you had done for Equestria, I'm happy to have a friend like you. It's awesome."
"Terrific; my dad is good at one thing: never admit his own faults, especially jumping on the wrong conclusion." Heavy explains to his friends, rolling his eyes a bit.
"And you don't?" Jade ask Heavy skeptically, recalling Heavy with his own faults.
"Cut me some slacks, Jade."
"Hey, Jade. Do you think Heavy can join our Cutie Mark Crusaders? He doesn't seem to have one." Nyx said thoughtfully. It's true, Heavy doesn't have a cutie mark at all. He could make a good addition to the group!
"Heck, yes! I've been looking for him all the time. Boy, talk about having troubles finding him from any of his training." Jade remarked to Nyx with a gleeful look.
"Hey! What's that supposed to be mean?" Heavy demands as if he was being made fun of here.
"Anyway, would you like to join Cutie Mark Crusaders?" Nyx ask Heavy eagerly and hopefully.
"There's gonna be battles?"
"Well, not exactly. But having adventures and fun is the best when it comes to finding our Cutie Marks."
Heavy scoffed, "Cutie, Scutie Marks; But adventures and fun? They are my middle name."
"Does this mean yes?" Nyx ask Heavy curiously and eagerly with a cute hopeful look.
"For Heavy, it's always 'yes." Jade remarked to Nyx with a slight chuckle.
“We’ll leave you to helping your friends out now, we’re just glad you made it all back safely.” Dragon Kick begins to state this that they need to get moving here. “I fought those four, and believe me, possibly out of the other Dark Mystic Warriors, they are only as strong as the minions while there are others rating near or higher above them.” He explained that those the Equestrian gang fought, aside from Tech being a weakling, those other four Dark Mystics there were about as strong as the usual minions in that group, and there are possible strong foes above them to that need to be watch out for.
“Ehhh, either way, if worse comes of it, we can lean a hoof.” Jade waved off in feeling that won’t be a problem, if the gang needs help, they’ll be there.
“Thanks. We’ll keep that in mind and be watchful.” Twilight nods in understanding the Mystics here and from being apprehended for what they also done & gave them to have better odds.
Tao glances to Chase while adding, "And get Chase home ASAP. He deserves some rest."
Soon the Mystic Ponies of Tao’s group soon left the library to leave Twilight’s group to help continue to heal their clone friends & make sure all is well. Hopefully in the future, the gang will hold a little better against such dark foes.
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At Chase's Temporary Home, Chase slept on the bed gently, moaning and groaning in pain, feeling his chest pain. His chest was covered by the bandages.
"Hey, you're okay?" Ben asks Chase in concern. He and the others are staying to make sure that their new friend is well before they could take their leave for now.
Chase groaned, "Yeah...... I'll live."
"Yeah. Thanks for helping and saving me."
Chase chuckled lightly, "What do you expect....... We are friends."
"Well, say what you want about him: the gentlecolt is a true hero." Rarity said in amusement. "Thank you."
"Right, not sure why my cousin was suspicious about him?" Rainbow remarks with a chuckle. "No bad guy would do something cool like that."
"Once you wake up, we could throw a 'thank you for saving Ben and us' party!" Pinkie squeals, bouncing up and down.
"Right an' Ah will send Big Mac over as thanks." Applejack remarks to Chase with a smile.
"Thanks." Fluttershy said gently.
"Chase, listen, I want to say thank you. And.......I'm sorry too." Twilight said with a smile, adding an apology as if regretting something.
Chase puzzled asks, "Why?"
"Being suspicious of you."
"Do not worry. I'm sure you had to make sure that I'm worthy to earn your trust. I'm not expecting some friendlier greetings and thank you that quickly."
Twilight smiled while saying, "I guess so."
Of course, Twilight was lying about the apology part. She still got some suspicions about Chase...especially since for some reason, he appears to be similar to the Shadow Dragon...and how did he knew where the group were at? And add the part how the clones got taken controlled right after she told her friends what happened...
But until Twilight is fully sure, she will keep her further suspicions a secret...for now.
Omega comes up, speaking, "Chase. I do not wish to intrude, but can I scan your body?"
"Of course," Chase said with a chuckle. Omega was silent, caught off guard by the response.
"Do you not feel angered by my intrusion?"
"If you had suspicions, you may check."
Omega's eyes fired the crimson highlights on Chase, seeing his body revealing a blue aura-like object. Within his mind, it show two blueprints of Chase and Shadow Dragon. Comparing them both: Chase himself had a blue aura while Shadow Dragon had a red aura. Shifting one blueprint to another: there's the two Dragon battling, revealing Chase had blue while Shadow Dragon had red.
Scanning and analyzing on both Chase and Shadow Dragon's auras, the word 'Match' appeared on the screen much to the robot's puzzled mode.
"Analyzing confirmed. Difference had been sighted." Omega said puzzled. "Strange. I thought I could have scanned the battle area properly."
Chase chuckles as he begin to ask, "Is it because you've been distracted by Dark Mystic Ponies?"
"Perhaps."
"Especially when dealing with Shadow Dragon. I can't help but wonder why would he do something like this. I mean, yes, I would feel upset if Twilight was killed. I wouldn't dare to do something terrible things." Ben remarked, suspicious to Shadow Dragon's motives. Something's off here.
Celestia spoke up to her son in concern, "Sometimes, Ben; it’s best not to know about his past. It could be terrible, especially involving his love."
"Maybe; But I'm gonna find out soon."
Chase sighed, shaking his head, "I doubt talking with him is a good idea."
"He's right, Ben. But I trust you know what you're doing." Twilight said to her love worried. Shadow Dragon may not be in a good move to talk to right now.
"It'll be fine." Ben assures Twilight.
The group leaves the house to let Chase get some rest. Omega left to give his report to Pinkamena and Golden Heart. He hopes that he himself isn't malfunctioning or something. Twilight's mind is still on her concerns about Chase. Ben...
"Ben, a word, alone," Azuma spoke to which they went to a far corner to have a private chat. "Is your friend Chase doing well?" He asked in sounding concern here.
"Yeah, he took a bad hit for me, but he'll make it out." Ben nods in stating that his friend that helped out is doing okay.
"I see, the reason I ask, is that I think you may have to keep an even sharper eye on him." Azuma spoke with wisdom from his voice in concerning over Chase.
"What? Why? He saved me and took a hit from Shadow Dragon meant for me?" Ben asked off confused over this issue.
"Yes, he made it on time, or perhaps....the timing was too perfect. Like it was coordinated by the enemy?" Azuma spoke in holding his chin to ponder how things acted out so...accordingly.
"Coordinated? How could the enemy coordinate why we were fighting?" Ben raised an eyebrow in hearing this.
"You know that when I fight with my clones, we work together as one mind, we even know the plots to play out to elude & misdirect the target's full attention on other things. You even know, that clones can disguise themselves to magically look like another." Azuma explained how when he fought, the Alicorn used methods to use teamwork and having many steps ahead to catch the enemy off guard.
"What are you saying?" Ben spoke in finding this was starting to get to a point he feels he knows much about.
"During the battle, I sense something of danger." Azuma stated from being concern over something in what he felt. "And just before you would leave, Shadow Dragon attacked, but the attack should have done more harm, but not much to Chase when he intervene. Like he wasn't trying to make you suffer enough damage, but only enough for another, almost enough to finish a normal pony if not one who has made himself built strongly." Azuma explained the case of something puzzling in what they saw during the Clone Six rescue operation.
"Are you saying they were working together to pull an act, that can't be, me and Chase fought hard against Shadow Dragon! I even sense their two different auras." Ben stated in finding this hard to believe.
"Yes, yet the enemy's actions suggest...otherwise." Azuma spoke in noticing how Tech's reaction to Chase's arrival when looking to Shadow Dragon, before the silent reminder from Houndkiller suggest...something a mist of the two's connection. "I want to believe Chase is good, but you must keep your mind sharp that one must keep their friends close...and enemies even closer, and especially if two are almost close to being the same." He spoke wisely that Ben must watch Chase as his friend, and watch Shadow Dragon as a closer enemy, and especially...if there is something going on between the two.
Ben was silent for a moment, there can't really be something connecting Chase & Shadow Dragon; could there be? He's heard many other voices in concerning over keeping an eye on Chase as it is and it seems like a lot of those voices were in agreement, but Ben feels he needs more convincing before accepting that there is something suspicious about Chase.
"Alright, but I'll be the one to decide if there is something not right about Chase or what it is that's truly connected between him and Shadow Dragon. Be it they fought against each other or another possible." Ben spoke in making his mind up on the fact, he'll keep an eye out, but he'll still keep believing Chase is a friend. And only hope, that Ben isn't proven wrong or that his belief might be a costly one.
"Very well thought, I give this knowledge to you, because I felt a small trace of a clone magic, one so very well hidden, it almost eluded my eyes & senses." Azuma spoke proud of Ben's choice, and only issued this because it felt like there was another clone in their area, one made of dark magic, like the Dark Mystics. "It could be that the Shadow Dragon you fought was only his clone and maybe made to be on low on power. He may be trying to test your skills since you're slowly growing stronger & learning more ways to fight, so you must be ready when next he strikes." He points out this so to help Celestia's child in knowing, that the stallion will need to be ready for whatever tricks the enemy like the Dark Mystics, are up to.
"Don't worry, I will." Ben nods with a serious face in getting the point; he'll keep an eye out for anything that Shadow Dragon might be pulling. If what he fought was only Shadow Dragon's Clone meant to not be at full strength, then he'll be extra ready against the real foe if he lays eyes on him.
With the secret discussion done, Ben was leaving with Azuma to rejoin the others now. Azuma felt there was more to Ben than meets the eye, especially from how Houndkiller spoke in riddles to him that may concern this pony. He needs to help keep the new wielder of the Triforce safe & well protected, just in case an event comes where a 'truth' maybe reveal that might be hurtful in a way.
As soon as everyone left Chase's home and away from his, Chase himself smiled; He got out of bed and transform his body into Shadow Dragon while removing the bandages from his chest. He spoke to someone in hiding, "You can come out now, Guildenstern and myself."
A Black portal appeared: Shadow Dragon and a golden Unicorn (without his back body and back legs and had crimson Demonic eyes) Guildenstern came out. The two Shadow Dragons smiled together as the one who came out from the black portal dissolved into black sparkles, entering into Shadow Dragon. The clone trick appears to have worked. So far, he had fooled most of his enemies into thinking that Chase and Shadow Dragon are different ponies.
Guildenstern spoke, "Well done, my lord. Your Element of Darkness had saved you again, especially dealing with Omega."
Shadow Dragon smirked while saying, "I had forgotten about him, but I'm glad you had observed and corrected Omega's scanner in time."
Guildenstern smiled, chuckling, "It is my pleasure. But my lord, be aware of Grimmore. I doubt he would be good news."
"Let him try. And who would have thought that his power and pulse grew stronger. But we also grow stronger. So you do have what you need?"
"Yes. I'm sure that would create not only strong defense, but also increased the power of darkness for Dark Elements. But what if Pinkamena suspects a thing on you?"
Shadow Dragon smiled while saying, "Do not worry. I had plans; a plan that involves making sure Pinkamena stay out of my way."
Guildenstern smiled while saying, "Very well."
Guildenstern left the building and returned to his home. Chase decides to take his leave: Dark Curse will want a report about the whole thing. There's going to be trouble...
--------------
Omega informs Pinkamena and Golden Heart of what happened. The two are surprised yet suspicious. The robot Alicorn's scanning is never wrong. Either Omega has a malfunction or something's up.
Either way, the trio decides not to speak about this for a while. As the three head back to the gang, Golden Heart ask his sister, "Anyway, I'm asking sister, how do you know about the Wind Assassins?"
Pinkamena giggles and says, "Oh Goldie, to tell you the truth, I came to this place really long ago when many were around and I was trained by the master assassin himself Altair bin Al-Lahad and also..." She whispers in Golden Heart's ear "The order still lives." Golden heart nods in surprise and calm.
"Ok but let's hush about this for now ok?"
She nods. No need for the cat to be out of the bag just yet.
At this moment, the Mane Six gang was at least having a good time with the Clone Six since they were all better now and free from evil. And as of right this moment, the CMC were in the middle of learning some interesting facts about Azuma about a pony that could gain so many talents to have more than one, seem intriguing to those that seek to find their Cutie Marks. Heck, even Nyx, Spike, Phobos & Ben were hearing the story of Azuma’s past while the mares were coming over to join.
“Wow, so ye were a unicorn a 1000 years ago before ya found a spell ta make ya an Alicorn?” Apple Bloom stated off in hearing what this pony has gone and done a long time ago.
“And you were born in an Indian tribe in the Badlands and wanted to learn many things from other ponies?” Sweetie Belle spoke off in sounding very interested in learning of this guy of what he could do.
“And that when you found your element, you made clones to help learn & have all the talents that exist?” Scootaloo mentioned how one guy managed to learn and do so many talents; it’s like having a thousand talents of a Cutie Mark meaning.
“How do we get to be like that?” The CMC asked off in union if they can be like that, they have been searching, but maybe their talent is unlimited.
“Hmph-hmph, relax, I just acquired means to help search to gain much knowledge & skills to help my tribe.” Azuma laughs off a bit in stating that what he managed to do and gain were because of his care to help his tribe. “As it stands, I’m the prime leader; I must keep my tribe out of harm's way of any foes & threats that enter in the Badlands. And by slowly developing to evolve, we can do that much than being proud warriors.” He pointed out this other matter to be noted for a just cause.
“Neat-o,” Phobos replied off in liking how this story sounded neat to him.
“Yeah, who knew any of this stuff?” Spike shrug off his shoulders in liking much of this told story.
“Oh Twilight, how things go with patching things up with what happened to Solar Moonlight & the girls?” Ben spoke in seeing the Mane Six & their clones coming in as he wonders if everything is now fine.
“Alright, everything is fine, and they feel like they never wanted to do such bad acts again.” Twilight nods her head to happily say that everything is okay now. “I’m just glad the clones are now alright, and back to being their old good selves like us girls.” She looked to her friends in knowing that the clones were made from good ponies, so it makes sense that they are good from the start.
“Right,” The Mane Six responded in fully agreeing on that term of logic.
“I am glad you understand things about the value of life, even for clones, Twilight Sparkle.” Azuma smiled in seeing this new princess has come to understand things much better now. “For when I create a clone, I know that even when it fights for me in battles, they are still a part of me and should not be taken advantage of. Even cross-generating others DNA to create a new breed clone as what you done, they still deserve to be showed the same love & respect you share to your friends.” He stood up to explained that even when clones are made, be it spell or by magic science, treat others like how you wanna be treated is the top issue for everyone to know.
“Thank you Azuma, I admit, I was rushing myself to try things.” Twilight sheepishly rub her back neck in admitting some faults from her curiosity. “But…what I’m not regretting is taking something away from the Clone Six that they deserve to experience.” She looked to the clones in smiling to them while going over what they should have. “Life, freedom, the experience of joy & friendship, everything me and my friends & family have learn, they deserve it to.” Twilight knows that no creature should be robbed of having such wonderful things to experience, it’s like the time that she found Nyx and showed her things that the black filly learn a difference or right & wrong.
“That is good, because I also have something for the matter itself.” Azuma nods with a more serious face in speaking to the group. “As of right now, the clones you made are still learning, they each have potential in talents to help others, but they shall need guidance.” He makes this statement clear for the others to follow.
“So…what are you saying?” Nyx asked puzzled in what this conversation was gonna be about.
“I know that Celestia has been like a teacher to you Mane Six and so perhaps it’s hard to know if this is luck or a coincidence.” Azuma reminded the group about someone that has helped to guide them like a teacher does for her students. “But my tribe has been wanting to grow along with the rest of Equestria and I truly believe those that can help make it possible might be them.” He points to the clones in seeing that the Clone Six could do wonders in helping his tribe out in the Badlands.
The gang was left in a silent stun moment, was Azuma saying…he like the Clone Six to come help him. But that would mean they would have to leave them, would that be okay?
“This I invite to you all, as one that understands how a clone feels & knows you are more alive than mere creation. My tribe will not be harsh of your origin.” Azuma humbly spoke in wishing to invite the Clone Six with this offer to where they can be treated fairly & not be mistreated when the citizens here have a hard time dealing with clones that went rogue. “Your talents can help many of them during tough times. But the choice is yours, do not feel that I am being forceful, you have the will to make the decision yourself.” He spoke that he will let the Clone Six decide this matter, Azuma knows they have the wills to decide, and shall let them choose what they think is better for them.
The Clone Six felt quiet in hearing & absorbing all of this. On one side, if they go, the six can do a lot of good in helping ponies, but if they stay, there may be hard times with the evil targeting this place & may try to control them if they don’t have the proper training.
“Gee, should we go?” Cuddly Tulip asked off a little unknowing of what to do.
“I know, it’s a big decision.” Aridity spoke in pondering that this was a big decision to make.
“But while we have good talents, there already existed others like dat.” Amethyst Lace knows that they are clones of the originals here that can do such things in Ponyville.
“That’s right, but then again, there is nothing wrong with having extras, is there?” Apple Sweet nods in agreeing while randomly thinking of if there was even a problem to have two exact duplicates stay here?
“It’s like picking door number one or two; we get one shot to get a prize.” Party Thrill stated in having her knowledge of comedy leads her to see how things are.
“Well, we did prove to be a handful after our birth. And we were unaware of the evil that existed that used us as tools.” Solar Moonlight spoke in looking concern over what’s happened before staring at Twilight and the Mane Six along with their friends. “If not for those of you that came to save us than destroy us, then…we would have…” She was having a hard time saying this, for usually clones are not born but created, would those that were involve in the creation destroy them if nothing else was done.
“Its fine, handling that kinda pressure is what a leader of the group is supposed to feel,” Twilight patted her clone’s shoulder with a gentle smile in admitting that such concerns are very much the likely hood of a born leader.
“Leader,” Solar Moonlight repeated this off surprised in hearing this now, “But why me?” She asked in why she should lead her Clone Six group.
“Well, you do have Twilight’s blood along with Celestia & Luna’s blood, and besides being the brains of the outfit, you were the strongest out of the others.” Spike shrug off hiss holders in pointing out these facts about what Solar Moonlight & Twilight basically share.
“I know I have to be strong to help not only protect my friends, but so we each can protect & help each other. You six share our same bound, it maybe differently fashion, but it’s still there.” Twilight slowly spoke with a smile before she was giving Solar Moonlight a hug to help comfort and ease the girl’s worries. “Remnants of our friendship reincarnated into you all.” She knew that the clones each have a special bound like the Mane Six and that it exist inside them to cherish.
The Clone Six were left stunned to gasp in what they are hearing; they have something special of the Mane Six that is the remnants of their strong friendship living on inside them. In truth, the Clone Six are feeling like they are the Best Of Friends, BFFs and all before their creation. This helps make them feel a sign of happiness begin to flourish in their hearts.
“Thank you, you may have been just our creator, but it feels like we are very much a family among friends.” Solar Moonlight hugs Twilight to let loose tears of joy in feeling that they were truly able to feel like they were family.
“Anytime,” Twilight happily responded that she and the others felt very much the same thing with these girls; even clones have feelings to be treated like a person after all.
“Amethyst Lace, dat was some rope work, but keep up ye good work wit' Rarity’s design outfits, kay.” Applejack came to hug her clone in giving some praise work on what she done.
“Ah will, Ah’ll do it ta help them little ponies dat need something ta feel good.” Amethyst Lace gladly responded to say while returning the hug to her original.
“Cuddly Tulip, you may have Fluttershy’s talent for being kind to animals, but I gotta say, you pack a mean wallop, you’re cool no matter what you do.” Rainbow Dash patted her hoof to her clone’s shoulder in giving her some compliments.
“Thanks, right back at cha! I’ll continue to be cool and be kind to all and that’s the coolest thing to do.” Cuddly Tulip smiled to her original before they gave some cool hoof-shake to the other before giving the other a hug.
“Aridity, I know you have no fashion craving, but I can tell you make weather like an art, the style of its fashion….you’ll do fine in your job.” Rarity came near her clone to give her best opinion on the matter of what this pony can do wonders for.
“Why thanks darling, and I to admit, your style of dresses aren’t bad, I may even wear one when making the weather happen.” Aridity spoke with a smile to her regional to which they both hug the other for joy of having some sense of fashion, but in different fields.
“Apple Sweet, you really do make the best kinda surprises, you may not be into surprises, but you can sure surprise ponies with them tasty apples you help plant & grow.” Pinkie Pie came near her clone to give her these words of encouragement.
“Heheh, thanks, maybe I’ll even throw an apple fishing contest for ponies to fish apples out of the water. That’ll be a fun surprise to give at least.” Apple Sweet giggled to her regional while issuing this fact before they both gave the other a nice hug.
“Um, Party Thrill, I…know this seems sudden, but….I hope you can give many ponies lots of laughs, cause helping to give smiles is…a nice kind thing to do.” Fluttershy approached her clone shyly in saying something that was her best kind effort at work.
“Gee, you know, that’s a kind thing to say. Maybe one day, we could pull a show to help be kind & have some laughs.” Party Thrill smiled to say before she had Fluttershy shake her hoof…which was a joy-buzzer that surprised her, but they soon smiled to happily hug the other; that was kinda funny there.
Once the touching moment was done from everyone having said their words of encouragement among other things; The Clone Six soon were happily looking to the originals before they each walk off in a line form to approach Azuma that awaited an answer from the clones.
“Azuma, I speak for the Clone Six….for my friends…” Solar Moonlight spoke with the royal degree of her tone before looking to her friends & continuing. “That we will go with you and help ponies that need our talents.” That was it, the Clone Six are taking Azuma’s offer to go where they can help others out.
“Are you certain?” Azuma spoke in wanting to make sure this clone version of Twilight knows what she’s doing.
“Ponyville has some great ponies here. Their own symbol of talented ponies that give them things that only they can do,” Solar Moonlight humbly explained to look at the clones original, this place has those that can provide talent of food, fashion, comedy, weather, kindness & knowledge of magic. “We wanna go help others that really need our help, and to be taught by you, so that whatever happened to us, we don’t ever wanna experience again.” The strong clone spoke that they wanna be with Azuma, the Clone Army Creator, for he can teach them more things since only a clone can understand another clone’s feelings even one that can duplicate to make clones and know how to respect them and help better themselves along the way.
“Is that how you all feel?” Azuma spoke in wanting to know if this decision was made by the rest of the Clone Six as well.
“Yes.” The Clone Six responded in having made up their minds to go with this Alicorn, to help where they can be needed.
“Very well,” Azuma nods with a humble nod of his head in seeing these clones have made up their minds. “As for you all, I give you my word, that if you need an ally against the uprising evil, I shall asset you.” He turns to Twilight’s group in vowing that should they need his aid in the future against great evil, he shall come help them. “And do not worry, this is not goodbye for the Clone Six, I shall help Solar Moonlight know how to teleport across land distances, so that they may visit you from any spare time.” He spoke this out in knowing the Mane Six would miss their clones, but they would come to visit from certain times, so this was not a goodbye for good.
The Mane Six smiled in hearing Azuma say this, it means a lot to them that they can see their clone counterparts sometimes, maybe around different planning days or something. And at least this way, Azuma will help train them to be better defended so they will not fall victim to being under evil’s control again.
“And now my friends, farewell…” Azuma smiled ever still in giving a farewell to his friends, until the next time they see the other.
Soon Azuma was casting a spell sphere over himself and the Clone Six, it was flashing so brightly to lift them up into the high point of the skies. And then in a blink of an eye, it flashed to let off a sonic boom effect in traveling vastly across the other side of Equestria to reach their designation. The Mane Six gang still had their smiles on, they know that they’ll see the Clone Six and even Azuma again; it was a promise after all. At least now, everything is as it should be, and maybe a bit better now.
“Well Twilight, I gotta admit, what started out like a terribly, horribly, worst case scenario that almost ended up in disaster…” Twilight was giving Ben the suspicious eye glare of if he’s trying to be funny in making this reminder again. “Turn into a happy ending for all of us.” Ben smiled to give his love praise that in the end, what was almost a mistake, turn out good for everyone.
“Oh really; Maybe I should make a clone of you for Solar Moonlight and see about reliving this experience all over again.” Twilight raised an eyebrow in making a sly comment about if Ben found what she did to cause all that, maybe if he doesn’t mind, she’ll make a clone of her lover to.
“Yeah, she like that and…wait; what! A clone of me,” Ben suddenly did a double take in just realizing what Twilight was saying.
“Heehehe, just kidding you; Honk,” Twilight made a little giggle of fooling her love before honking his nose in playing around.
“Oh, now you’re gonna get it!” Ben raised an eyebrow in seeing the game that Twilight played and now he’s gonna play right back.
Soon Twilight was trying to leave Ben in the dust while everyone was soon seen laughing it up at this act. And above the gang, Celestia & Luna watched the others having their fun.
“It appears Twilight has learned an important lesson sister.” Luna stated in seeing how Twilight has learn a valuable lesson here.
“Yes, and I’m thankful that she did. And more thankful that Azuma arrive when he did.” Ceelstia smiled in seeing that this action has taught her student well, and is glad they had help today.
“We can only hope that his next visit won’t be during a threat, but if so, he can handle himself well. He enjoys fighting worthy opponents.” Luna points off in stating this fact that it be nice if Azuma visits them than just to help save the day.
“Indeed, and I have a feeling he won’t be alone with just his own clones, but new allies from his side.” Celestia made a nice smile in thinking that next time, Azuma may have more company than just himself, and they know that answer very well.
The Royal Sisters stared across the distance of where the sun was setting and the moon was slowly beginning to rise. There were images of Azuma in the front of the Clone Six; Solar Moonlight, Amethyst Lace & Cuddly Tulip from middle to left, and Aridity, Apple Sweet & Party Thrill from middle to right. Those here can truly see that those ponies will indeed be helpful in the next time Equestria needs help, and it will be nice when they visit again as the screen goes dark on this peaceful moment that has come to a close.
Epilogue
At this moment, those of the Dark Mystics that return to their secret base were presented before Dark Curse. It was explained of the matter of what had happened with the Clone Six in their capture to their escape from some unlikely rescuers that some of the guys weren’t expecting. And not only that, but thanks to Tech’s incompetence and the appearance of 'Chase', they lost out on a usage of an abandon facility to make more Techbots to increase their army size, thereby drawing them to be halted in their plans for conquest.
“Oh please Lord Dark Curse, don’t be upset. I….I almost won.” Tech begged to be forgiven; he almost had victory in his grasp.
“Almost….doesn’t cut it, Tech? You failed, just as we anticipated.” Dark Curse remotely issued that he and the other higher ups knew that Tech would fail them.
“Hugh?” The Dark Warrior trio was a little puzzled & confused in hearing this?
“Master, what do you mean, as you expected?” Black Tiger questioned the meaning of this sudden debate manner.
“We knew the plan with the clones would not work and the heroes would intervene, as well as the arrival of the Mystic Ponies and 'Chase the Fighter'.” Dark Curse issued off in stating the fact of already knowing the plan that was hatched would be bumbled, especially with Tech being in charge of it. “That’s why I had wanted Houndkiller & Shadow Dragon to be a part of the mission afterwards, for safety measures.” He points out the main fact of why he sent others to be a part of the mission without letting Tech, Black Tiger & the Dark Warrior Trio know anything about it.
“Apparently, we’ve learn that besides the Royal Princess’s strength, it would seem only a few of those Equestrians shown much strength to handle against us, the others that didn’t have much were just lucky to not die.” Shadow Dragon stated with a focus face in issuing that there were some of those that show they are capable of facing the Dark Mystics, however, those like Twilight’s friends & the baby dragons, only managed to escape from being eliminated by luck alone.
“And it would have gone our way, if not for those meddling Mystic Ponies interfering. Now they know that we’re making our move.” Houndkiller cursed the luck they had of running into their old adversaries and just as they had victory in their grasp to when the clone control thing would have been a bust.
"Tech, I should transfer you to Dr. Pinksano for this!"
Oh, come on, Shadow! I don't wanna help Pinksano! She's insane!" Tech protests to Shadow Dragon in a bit of fright.
"Regardless, she will ensure your mechanical failures are advanced warriors." Shadow Dragon said to Tech sinisterly, freaking the pony out. "But I said 'should' but I won't, so consider yourself lucky this time!"
“It doesn’t matter, they still do not know of what we are truly planning.” Crimson Skull stated that so long as their mortal foes don’t know what they are hatching, they will be left in the dark.
“And it will stay that way; we leave all our enemies in the dark.” MechaStahl declared in making sure no one knows what they are up to, be it the Mystic Ponies or Equestrians, none will know of their true plan until it’s too late.
“My, my….it would seem you are all in an unpredictable uproar at this time.” Spoke a deep, dark, and powerful voice that fielded the throne room of the Dark Mystics HQ while some were lost in who spoke.
Then without warning, a sudden portal of inferno appeared in the middle of their squabbles and from the center appeared….the very powerful god himself that is Equestria’s worst nightmare come true: Grimmore.
“Uh oh,” Shades gasped in seeing who was here before them.
“Grimmore,” DJ Red responded off shock in seeing the Dark Elf Demon God was before them yet again.
“He’s baaaaaaack!” Clumsy Rat gasped off to stretch his response in seeing the guy they thought never darken their doorstep is here now.
“But-but, but….how? I invented a device that was supposed to keep out all intruders under Dark Curse’s order?” Tech was gasping in shock, how is it that the most feared foe in existence got through their barrier wall?
“Hmph-hmph, such toys are meant to only withstand so much, and besides….this is only a window to speak to those I have interest to chat.” Grimmore chuckles darkly within his breath to explain, he’s speaking by portal window magic, he’s not there physically or with his armor, and that’s why the Dark Mystics’ barrier didn’t stop him.
“So then, Lord Grimmore, why have you come before us now?” Dark Curse spoke to raise an eyebrow in pondering why the most powerful creature in existence is before them once again.
“I’ve recently viewed an interesting spectacle, of where you all decided to….’interact’, with the rising heroes.” Grimmore spoke with a little humble tone in saying he saw recent events played out; involving these Dark Mystics.
“You saw that? How,” Black Tiger responded shock, how did Grimmore even knew that they were acting out, word of their introduction hasn’t spread far yet, has it?
“You all seem to forget something, there is nothing in this world, my eyes cannot see & know of.” Grimmore stated with a clear romantic tone in where his eyes seem to penetrate their body shells, which gave quite a few of them goosebumps.
“How can you see when you’re imprisoned?” MechaStahl asked off in protesting the claim that this Demon God knew things from observing them.
“Well, that is only a feat befitting, for only he who holds claim of being a TRUE…Demon God.” Grimmore smirked off smug-like in declaring that he can do such impossible things no mere mortals or those that gain some near-immortality standard, cannot achieve, “And speaking of knowing things.” He issued forth this matter from his eyes trailing off to look around the room.
Suddenly, the Dark Elf moved his right hand top to where the palm was sticking upwards. And then when the others yelped in concern, the index finger of the Overlord King moved to bring itself to the palm; but why? The answer was about to be explained at this exact moment.
“Waaahaahaaahh,” Tech yelped off to scream a bit as the entire group were knocked over cause the whiny member was levitating off the ground before stopping presently before the greatest evil in Equestria.
“Didn’t you say something about myself, Tech was it? Hmmm….?” Grimmore spoke with a deep voice with his appearance seem only inches from his portal while Tech was close to almost being roasted from the inferno window.
“Oh! Um….that you….aahhh….look really cool, and I love your work?” Tech yelped in suddenly realizing that he himself was before a very powerful figure and that he shouldn’t try to offend one that has the power to due him in.
“Uuuugh, sometimes, it’s embarrassing that he’s my son.” Crimson Skull slapped his head in seeing Tech grovel over an enemy that he can’t beat, at least he should have some dignity.
“I recall it was something different. What was it….I….failed?” Grimmore spoke in which some form of dark mighty God magic seem to almost wanna escape the portal to reach for the poor soul in front of it. “Perhaps you don’t know, before all….are ants that do not know anything, know nothing and learn nothing. And you are one of those ants.” As he spoke, the aura coming from the flaming portal seem almost ghastly, the mere presence made any living creature feel their life slipping away.
“Guuuulp,” Tech swallowed hard in realizing his mistake, he just badmouthed & taunted Grimmore’s name and if the saying about a God is watching, then if it’s a Demon God, one really has to be careful or risk betting their foolish life.
“Perhaps your colleagues need to understand things, want to experience something you never experience before? Where your soul is rip from your body, & sent between heaven or hell, or in another body…maybe insect to fit your station? Well…?” Grimmore spoke in sounding ever darker, ever more terrifying, the mere words spoken every time seem to even make the Dark Warrior Trio & Black Tiger begin to step back in fear, while some of the others felt like they were deer caught in a headlight, even Shadow Dragon almost felt….powerless from sensing only this much absolute force even by a portal window spell to slip through.
“Gaaaahhhhh; Please-please-please; Anything, I rather be struggling against Shadow Dragon’s hydra than that!” Tech was crying and begging and pleading while looking pathetic to not wanting to be horribly done by the Demon God, much to the embarrassment to the rest of the Dark Mystics.
“Let him go Grimmore, he may be weak & pathetic, but he ‘has’ uses.” Dark Curse spoke to roll his eyes to kindly ask the Overlord King to let Tech go, despite other things; their Dark Mystic group needs him.
Grimmore made a sly smile before releasing Tech, who quickly went to hid behind his father, much to Crimson Skull’s annoyance.
“I shall leave, but remember this, there isn’t anything in this world or the next, I don’t know about. Including what you all maybe scheming,” Grimmore smiled from seeing that he shall take leave, but he’ll leave an important fact; that he knows what is happening, including something the Dark Mystics are doing that made them almost double look back in shock: does he know. “After all, those whose souls are sold to me are forever under my rule.” He stated this matter in which left more confusion than answers in the waking.
“Sold souls?” Shadow Dragon spoke off a bit puzzled in hearing this statement that puzzled him.
“What do you mean Grimmore?” Dark Curse raised an eyebrow in being caught off guard by such words.
“Hmph; that is a matter which can’t be escaped from, no matter what is done; After all, those who crave power are too greedy to never cease seeking it. You should know that more than anything as the Superior shares & understands my ways.” Grimmore spoke forth in stating more facts that those that want power, need & crave it, and only the Dark Elf has it, and while the Dark Mystics are still left lost, it’s only the Superior of the Apocalypse Ponies that knows what the Overlord King understands.
Suddenly, a sudden moment the screen turn black & white and gray as a heartbeat sound happened that made Dark Curse & Shadow Dragon gasp from….feeling something off with themselves. When the color return, they seem lost & confused, what was that…feeling? And then without a word, Grimmore’s inferno portal soon disappears from sight, giving the other Dark Mystics a chance to sigh in relief to catch their breaths.
“Did I ever mention how much that guy really makes me wanna stay as far, far, FAR away as possible,” MechaStahl dryly stated off that he really finds Grimmore to be scary, he rather not wanna be in the same room as a powerful god being that they stand no chance of defeating.
“Yes, and it appears….Grimmore may actually know of our plans after all, but how? There shouldn’t be anything of his magic spying on us.” Crimson Skull spoke puzzled and confuse, how did their secret get out, they kept their lips seal tight and actions unseen.
“No, it’s as he says, his vision allows him to see all & know all, I had completely forgotten it!” Dark Curse clap his forehead in stun shock in being so foolish, he forgot that Grimmore was said to possess such a powerful ability that no magic could elude or deceive that which is the power of a god. “I knew something was up when he was only pretending that I get on his nerves, it seems we may have underestimated our abilities currently.” Dark Curse stated in seeing that the Dark Mystic Ponies may have bite off a bit more than they could chew in keeping Grimmore in the dark.
“So what should we do?” Houndkiller asked in wondering what the rest of them should do if even Grimmore knows of what their actions & plans are.
“For now, we continue our objective. Even if Grimmore knows, he’s more to just observe our actions as a stage performance.” Dark Curse stated that they continue to follow through with their plan, even if the powerful Demon God knows. “So we’ll just have to make sure we follow through, it matters not what we do, it’s all the same to the mighty Demon God himself watching our struggles as entertainment. Now, off with you.” He issued this off with a clear stern tone before wanting those here to be dismissed.
“Yes Lord Dark Curse.” The Dark Mystics in the throne room bow in heeding their master’s words before turning to leave by dark portals.
“By the way Tech, would you really not have taken what you deserve?” Shadow Dragon turn to Tech in wanting to ask him something interesting from what happened.
“Trust me SD, I rather be anywhere but where I was almost gonna be.” Tech spoke with relief that he rather be anywhere than near Grimmore, the tech pony almost lost his life to an extremely scary guy.
“Good, then as you requested, enjoy playing with my pet.” Shadow Dragon smirked in liking that idea of Tech as this will serve as punishment.
Then a portal opened below Tech which he didn’t notice until too late.
“Waaaaughhhh,” Tech screamed out from falling into the dark portal before he hit solid ground, “GRUUARRRRUGHHH!” The sounds of Shadow Dragon’s Hydra are heard from seeing he has company, “Gaaaughhhh! Maybe I should have picked a less scary creature! Nice Hydra, heel boy. I’m not a chew toy. Waaaaahhhh,” Tech’s voice was heard screaming in terror as the guy was trying to flee for his life.
Soon Shadow Dragon closed the portal he sent Tech in before preparing to leave the room lastly.
“Shadow Dragon, a word with you…alone,” Dark Curse spoke in wanting the last member to come before him, “Did you feel something affect your body?” He asked if something affected this strong Dark Mystic’s body at the moment.
“Yes, I did, I thought it was weird.” Shadow Dragon slowly nods in recalling that, but then did a double take of what truly occur here. “Wait, you’re not thinking Grimmore spoke true, that we sold our souls to him? We never did such a thing.” How did they sold their souls to Grimmore, they never did that, what was the meaning behind it?
“I know, but the Dark Elf has always been clever & crafty with toying with creatures, just as a God would.” Dark Curse spoke in ponder & thought over the issue himself that bother him. “And it sounds like we can’t escape it, for we desire power as spoken true.” He stated with a heavy sigh, for what was spoken means they can’t give it up on one major drawback.
“I see, then knowing the cure would be to stop seeking power is something we cannot do.” Shadow Dragon solidly nods in understanding, they are both creatures that desire power and to stop their Quincy would mean they lose their power. “So this is just a mere extent of Grimmore’s power, I can see why defeating him cost Mystic Avatar his life to only seal him…for temporally.” Shadow Dragon is starting to see why only one Mystic Pony managed to handle against Grimmore, if back in his foolish prime as Dragon Hope ever fought the powerful Dark Elf; he would not survive or stood a chance.
“Let us not concern ourselves over this matter. When the time comes, all things shall fall to evil.” Dark Curse spoke in stating they just forget the manner to continue their work. “We shall do what we must, and if we fall, then you’ll have to take over.” He knows that if he goes, he shall leave Shadow Dragon to take over.
“Understood, master,” Shadow Dragon nods in heeding the words of his master.
“Good, now return to your station as Chase, in order to continue your task at hand.” Dark Curse nods before instructing Shadow Dragon to return to Ponyville, he still has a mission objective to complete.
“It shall be done.” Shadow Dragon nods in hearing the order, and shall proceed posthaste.
With that, Shadow Dragon vanished in his own dark portal while leaving Dark Curse alone. The scene goes into darkness as many new dark threats are slowly beginning to rise up to strike terror to Equestria. Question will be, if the heroes can handle such powerful enemies…?
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Soon we find Flare Tiger had also teleported herself to the Badland area near Azuma's tribe area that was mostly an Indiana style. She found the Clone Six being welcome and given some bless for their special gift talents in helping their tribe grow a little more to reach the rest of society. And soon the pony of dimensions saw Azuma, as he dismiss Solar Moonlight from a little training he helped her do with her control of magical talent.
"Mister Azuma, over here," Flare Tiger spoke out to approach the alicorn leader of his tribe.
"Flare Tiger, I presume." Azuma spoke in seeing Flare Tiger of her arrive here, he knows this pony.
"Yes, I like to also help you train & keep the Clone Six safe from harm. With me and my family," Flare Tiger spoke in wanting to offer service to help the Clone Six be protective against enemies that still want to take advantage of the new ponies that need time & training to be more prepared.
"And how would you do such a thing?" Azuma raised an eyebrow of curiosity, pondering what she was offering.
"We can build a door for you in your tribe to act as a gateway, like a portal connecting your homeland & mine. That way, we'll be close by if anything comes about." Flare Tiger explained what they can do in order to insure that they will be close by, kinda like neighbors, offering to help another out when need be.
Azuma thought for a moment of this offer, it's true that he is mighty & strong, but he knows there exist crafty & clever enemies in the world; such like the Superior, Dark Curse, and the worst & most powerful of them all, Grimmore. Perhaps it would be best to have a 'second' safe place to insure the safety of his tribe & of their new family like the Clone Six.
"Agree, I shall accept your offer, so that it may help us all, come..." Azuma humbly nods his head in seeing that what this mare speaks is true, they will accept the offer to have a door to act as a portal gateway. "Let us both help guide & teach these new ponies the way to help spread their wings." He spoke in offering that he wishes to have Flare Tiger help him in the progress in making the Clone Six slowly spread their wings, so they can truly fly.
"Thanks, I would most definitely be grateful to that." Flare Tiger smiled to nod in hearing this, as she would be thankful that Azuma likes her idea, and how it can be helpful to them all.
Soon Flare Tiger & Azuma begin to walk about in discussing plans to help construct the door in a place where it shall be close by for emergency, if needed. For now, it looks like more things are gonna slowly develop alright for the Clone Six's future to progress without evil forces coming to drag them to the dark side, not with a plan to safeguard & protect them. With that, everything goes black in ending this scene here...
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At the laboratory, the screen appeared in front of Guildenstern, the Demon Assassin and Dark Curse, showing 100% from Twilight and her friends' blood matched with the Six Apocalypse Ponies' blood. Another screen revealed 50% blood of the Clone Mane Six, matched with his allies'. They got some...surprising help.
Rainbow Droid snarls, "Progress of the device is unsatisfactory. It must be completed soon..."
Dr. Pinksano scoffs, "Aw, stop worrying, droidie." The droid glares. "You can't rush SCIENCE!"
Why the Dark Mystic Ponies are working with them, one has yet to understand," Guildenstern said amusingly as he spoke. "As we had expected, my lord, the clones that Twilight had made is nothing but different and independent."
"Lucky I had sent the Demon Assassin to get the real target." Dark Curse remarks with a cruel chuckle.
"Thank you, my lord." The Demon Assassin said while bowing to his master.
"With the Mane Six's blood combined with our friends' blood, along with the Clones' bloods, we can finally create the true power of Dark Elements, and of course, I would create the fail safe for both me and Lord Superior should they turned against us."
"I'm glad you had that thought," A familiar voice spoke. Dark Curse narrows his eyes as he saw a familiar figure appearing in the room, hiding behind his hood as per usual.
Dark Curse hiss furiously at the one called the Superior, "You had some nerve of coming here."
"Don't tell me that you're angry because of Grimmore. I can't help it. Besides, Grimmore is very angry that he couldn't have fun."
"Well, he should have bothered on insects! Just because he thinks I'm not aware of it, doesn't mean he can disturb me. I am aware of both of yours' connection. Now, I'm not in mood of talking about Grimmore. I'm busy."
The Superior smirks as he comments, "Very well. Boy, you are too sensitive. Anyway, tell me. By mixing with Twilight's Mane Six bloods and the Clone Six with my six mares of Apocalypse Ponies' blood together, we can create the powerful strengths of Dark Elements; we had gained the advantage in winning."
"Yes. If that happens, then we would wait for the rest. Something that I had been waiting for," Dark Curse remarks with a cruel chuckle.
"Yes. I know what you mean. With them, we will conquer the world."
"And I promise you that Mystic Crystal Powers will be yours to use, and so as your son."
The Superior smiled while responding, "Good."
Dark Curse frowns while adding, "Be sure that he and Grimmore stayed out of my way. The last thing I want is interruption." He wants the Demon God to stay out of what he's got planning next.
The Superior chuckled, waving off Dark Curse's concern, "You are too serious. Don't you think you should rest and have fun?"
"Never stops until the ambition of mine to restore order of Equestria and Mystic Realm will be complete."
"Very well; But I need a request."
"What is it?" Dark Curse asks the Superior, wondering what his ally wants.
"It's Ms. Moon. She seemed to be upset again. Letters are not calming her down." The Superior said seriously. His fellow Apocalypse Ponies member is getting upset over the absence of...a certain pony.
"Very well; oh, yes, Miss Dahlia, I almost forgot you."
The two villains turn, seeing Fanged Dahlia sitting on a counter. Dr. Pinksano shudders, "Wow, she's creepy."
Fanged Dahlia smiles, jumping off the counter while adding, "Yes. I already inform Dark Curse of...my prophecy involving the Mane Six, a curse I made after the Summer Sun Celebration which involves the Mane Six's deaths."
"Yes, before they open that box." The Superior said in remembrance.
"However, they are close to finding them all. I want that curse fulfilled at once! Their deaths must happen."
"Hmmm...I do believe I got one certain...idea. Dark Curse, Fanged Dahlia? Are you familiar with...Crypt World?"
"The world where even the nastiest of nightmares, horrors and such happens and..." Dark Curse's eyes widen in realization. He gave out a cruel chuckle, "Oh yes. Perfect. Yes, I see what you're gunning for Superior. Miss Dahlia, I believe your curse will occur."
Fanged Dahlia gave out an evil grin. Not even the Mane Six and their allies will be a match for...'Crypt World'.
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In the Everfree Forest, Shadow Dragon sat and laid on the water lake in both gentle and relax. He mumbles to himself, "Fighting against my own allies and enemies could have tired me out. I'm glad that everything goes perfectly. I need break."
"Or someone to be with you." A familiar voice spoke. Shadow Dragon looked up and saw Ms. Moon, smiling at him.
"Hello."
"Hi to yourself," T. Moon kissed on Shadow Dragon's lips gently and passionately. "I miss you...... so much."
"I did send letters to you." Shadow Dragon said to his love in concern.
Twilight Moon smiled while speaking slyly, "Not without your kiss." Shadow Dragon smiled, turning to T. Moon, grabbing her to the pool. T. Moon giggled happily and Shadow Dragon chuckled. "Shall we?"
"Of course; once we are done with this mission, we will have peace together, and with our child. How is he?"
Twilight Moon smiled, answering, "He is fine. He seemed to be missing us so much. Maybe a day off, we should see him."
"Don't worry, we will."
Shadow Dragon and Twilight Moon hugged tightly and gently, having their bodies touched. They gave kiss passionately and gently on their lips under the moon.
The End...for now.
Cast list
Tara Strong: Twilight Sparkle, Solar Moonlight, T. Moon
Ashleigh Ball: Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Amethyst Lace, Cuddly Tulip, Rainbow Droid
Andrea Libman: Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Apple Sweet, Party Thrill, Pinkamena Diane Pie, Dr. Pinksano
Tabitha St. Germain: Rarity, Aridity, Mrs. Cake, Princess Luna, Nyx Battle Mode
Cathy Weseluck: Spike the Dragon
Jason Marsden: Ben Mare, Chase the Fighter/Shadow Dragon
Daveigh Chase: Nyx
Chris Sanders: Phobos the Dragon
Michelle Creber: Apple Bloom
Claire Corlett: Sweetie Belle
Madeline Peters: Scootaloo
Nicole Oliver: Princess Celestia
John De Lancie: Discord
Emma Watson: Flare Tiger
Matthew Broderick: Comet Star
Orlando Bloom: Golden Heart
Vic Mignogna: Omega
Sab Shimono: Mystic Tao
James Sie: Dragon Kick, Shades
Noah Nealson: Mighty Heart, Various Dark Mystic Ponies
Stacie Chan: Jade Adventure
Steve Kramer: Warpath Temper
Johnny Young Bosch: Heavy
Latham Gaines: Dark Curse
Danny Cooksey: Tech
Liam O'Brien: The Crimson Skull
Malcom McDowell: MechaStahl
Sean Pertwee: Houndkiller
Adam Baldwin: DJ Red
Clancy Brown: Clumsy Rat
John DiMaggio: Black Tiger
Neil Ross: Guildenstern
Peter New: Caramel, Various Dark Mystic Ponies
With special guests voices by
Dee Bradley Baker: Azuma
Tom Kane: The Book
Tim Curry: Grimmore, The Superior
Kate Elliot: Fanged Dahlia