//------------------------------//
// Chapter 9: Fiery of Friendship Within 
// Story: Journey through Demon Land 
// by Shadow Master 
//------------------------------//

Dragon Kick's Rescue Team had arrived at the Land of Serpentine and battled with Demon Dragon Warriors in the evening. With the Metal Ponies' arrival, they had forced their enemies to withdraw.

During the evening, Metal Ponies helped and healed Dragon Kick's team from injuries while setting the camps for rests. They gave the nutritious vegetables and foods to Dragon Kick's team. They also informed the latter about Lance and his team. Dragon Kick's team sighed in relief as they were happy and relief to hear the latest news.

"It's a great relief to hear they're safe from danger," Lightningblade said calmly.

Burnblast nodded his head in agreement, "Yeah. Gotta say... Those kids got some guts in beating a Hydragoon, Crushkiller and Dai Gui. And not to mention, they've managed to free Metal Ponies from Demon Lord of Earth's grips."

"It is true. There is no deny on it," Tailtech nodded his head in agreement but he sighed in concern, "It's still feel terribly reckless, though it was safer than going to east route. That could have lead the underground cavern to Shendu's Dragon Domain. I don't want to imagine of the danger they faced with..."

"I agreed." Dragon Kick nodded his head, "If I have to guess correctly, they may have defeated Hsi Wu and gotten the fourth ingredient - Demon Wing."

Burnblast chuckled wildly, "That's great to hear it! If they get four more, then it's our game."

"Still," Lightningblade said in concern before sighed, "there will be more dangers and challenges ahead for them to fight. And I feared that both Spike and Nyx may find something they will not like..."

Dragon Kick sighed, "As soon as the sun rises, we'd better catch up with them. And hopefully, they're still safe from danger. I can't stand on losing Jade. What was she thinking?! How could she take this risk?!"

Tailtech nodded his head, "Agreed. And don't worry. We'll catch them."

Dragon Kick looked at the smiling yet calmed Tailtech before he looked at confident Burnblast and calmed Lightningblade. He nodded his head in agreement. A Metal Pony came and gave some foods to them for eating. Dragon Kick's team turned to both Metal Pony Elder and some of them for more information about what Lance's team did so far...





On the next morning, the sun rose from the ground. Lance's group woke up. They took the bath and had a breakfast. They then packed all the supplies and foods for their next journey. They all headed down to the ground by bouncy clouds while Dragoking clawed and climbed down.

Lance's group climbed onto Dragoking's back. They were all ready to move out. They then traveled to the next land in hopes to retrieve the next ingredient.

They had spent 2 hours in traveling the long yet empty road to the next land. They had arrived at the new land called Thunder Armored Domain. Lance and his team looked around of their surroundings as they found it more darker and metallic than before, above all the atmosphere was gloom and dark yet rainy and stormy...

"Wow... Never seen or been this place before in my life," Boomer commented while looking at the area, "I wonder why clouds are getting darker and scary."

Rob shrugged, "Well, this is called Thunder Armored Domain because it was ruled by Demon Lord of Thunder: Tchang Zu. As long he stayed and ruled the domain, the thundering clouds will keep on going. And it's not a happy ending too."

BOOM! Cutie Mark Crusaders screamed in fear and worry. Grunt hugged them passionately and gently as he make them some comfort and calm down. They sighed in relief before smiling at him for making a comfort for them.

"Hey Nyx," Lance called as his adopted sister turned to him. He asked, "So, what's the next ingredient from this sad land."

Nyx looked through her Demon Encyclopedia, "The next one we're looking for is called Thunder Serpent's Scale. A very dangerous but effective too when it comes to ponies' paralysis. It'll gives him or her some shocks but it will get rid of whatever paralyze you."

Spike hummed in concern, "Grandpa Tao did say that third day will make them paralyze. I'm not if it's temporary or forever."

"Either way," Lance said calmly, "We're gonna fight with the Demon Lord of Thunder. And it's not gonna be easy for us to deal with."

Shiroi sighed, "Hopefully, we don't get into some sticky situation."

"ALERT! AMBUSH UNIT INCOMING!" Metalgear exclaimed in shock as he had both his hooves turned into Buster Canons, "Be ready!"

Dragoking snarled in anger as he was ready to fight. Lance jumped down and armed with his Twin Golden Swords. Drake Trio, Shiroi, Nyx and Spike came down as well in while leaving Cutie Mark Crusaders were on Dragoking's back. Everyone was ready to fight with their enemies.

They heard the battle cry. They looked up and found 50 of armored Demon Thundering Reptilian Warriors charging at them. 10 of them were riding the Cragadiles while most were on the foot. Lance and his team were ready to fight with their enemies. The Reptilian Warriors were closed on the young heroes.

SWOOP! 10 Reptilian Soldiers got killed by the shots of arrows. Another set of arrows shot on 10 remaining raiders. One arrow shot to the ground while beeping like a time bomb. It exploded in blowing 15 of them out. The last remaining warriors were in shock and feared as they turned and quickly ran off. They ran as far away from Lance's team. A flying canister-like shot straight to them. Upon receiving the impact, they got blown into pieces.

Lance's team were in surprise yet shock and dumbfound of what they had saw. They thought that they were about to fight but they instead stay put.

Jade was stunned in asking, "Ugh... What just happen?"

"If you want to live and survive it," The firm yet strong and serious voice called. Everyone yelped in surprise as they looked around of their surroundings. He continued, "then you best by ready for anything..."

Everyone was in shock and concern as they all remained firm and ready to fight whoever it was.

"Okay... So who the heck was that? And not to mention, who saved our hides?" Boomer asked in concern.

"That would be me."

CLING-CLANG! RUSTLE! The leaves were falling down on Lance and his team. They were in shock and surprise by it. They then looked up and found a shadowy figure holding some kind of rope as the latter was sliding down. Upon slammed and landed on the ground, he slowly got up. Lance and his team armed themselves ready to fight, knowing it could be enemy or neutral.

He revealed himself to be a dark crimson Unicorn with orange spiky yet short mane and tail dressed in his a darker red arrow mark on black sleeveless suit-like, his hooves were covered by hoof-gloves and worn a black mask. His flank had golden phoenix-like wielded both gem gear-blaster and crimson bow. He was holding his crimson bow.

Spike whistled in amaze, "That's some entrance..."

"Who are you?" Nyx asked in concern and worry.

"Red Arsenal," The stranger spoke firmly yet seriously, "The Arsenal Archer..."

"Um... Can't say we heard about you before," Scootaloo said while shrugged.

"I am Grunt?" Grunt spoke as he stared and looked at Red Arsenal. The latter was irritated and annoyed. He continued looked at the armored Megaton Canon-Blaster, quiver of arrows and Diamond Sniper. He continued, "I am Grunt..."

"I know your name, genius." Red Arsenal remarked irritatingly.

Rob cleared his throat, "Actually, Grunt was commenting you. He's got some limited verbs. I've gotta say you sure equipped. Maybe too... too equipped. No wonder you were called as Red Arsenal."

Red Arsenal scoffed a bit, "That's a laugh. Mind telling me of who you really are?" Lance and his introduce themselves to him. He nodded his head in understanding before he continued, "Okay, then. Now tell me - why are you here?"

"We're looking for the cure ingredients," Sweetie Belle answered.

Apple Bloom nodded her head, "Yeah. We need eight of them to save our friends and family from Ponyville. They're very sick."

"Status updated - We have retrieved four ingredients yet four more to seek out," Metalgear stated.

Red Arsenal raised his left eyebrow up while looking at them, "Really? You came all the way here to get them? You can't be serious."

"It's the truth, Red Arsenal," Spike insisted, "And now, we're looking for Thunder Serpent's Scale."

Red Arsenal looked surprised, "You don't say. Last I heard, it was kept on the tight and secluded spot. I can lead you there."

Lance smiled, "Perfect! Let's go."

As Lance and his team were about to move, Red Arsenal held his right hoof in stopping them. He spoke, "I never said about bring the rest with you. I just need you only, Justicestrike."

"Why?!" Cutie Mark Crusaders asked in shock and concern.

Red Arsenal narrowed his serious eyes, "One, this place is not for some kids. And second, you kids could slow us down easily. And third, you could easily get caught by the enemies. And I am one pony will not hesitate in firing my arrows at either them or hostages."

Dragoking growled in anger while hissing at Red Arsenal as he didn't like what the latter had said to both his masters and allies.

"Oh yeah? What about us? What are we to you, Red?" Boomer asked arrogantly.

Red Arsenal looked at Drake Trio, Shiroi and Metalgear. He huffed before commented, "I hate to admit it. The Metal Pony is a perfect and strategic arsenal in fighting thousands of front units. That white Unicorn looked tough enough to fight. I could use some smart and muscle like two dragons." He then glared at Boomer, "As for you, you hardly put any effort."

"WHAT?! Why I outta-!" Boomer exclaimed in anger as he was about to attack held by both Rob and Grunt. He cried, "Let me go! Let me go!"

"I wouldn't do that if I were you, Boomer," Rob said in concern, "And trust me - don't embarrass yourself!"

Grunt nodded, "I am Grunt."

Shiroi approached and spoke calmly, "Please. We have been through lots of dangers and we overcome it. And believe in me, these foals and Spike are not defenseless."

Lance nodded his head, "Yeah, thanks for your worries about them. But they'll be safe with me. I promised to my dad that I'll keep them safe."

"Should I care for your opinion, Justicestrike? Let me give you a hint, kid," Red Arsenal said dryly, "You don't have what it takes to protect everyone and especially your own family."

Lance groaned in anger as he was losing his cool when Red Arsenal insulted him about protecting his family. Lance pulled his Twin Dragon Swords out as he charged at Red Arsenal. Everyone tried to stop as he jumped and held his swords up high. He slammed it right at Red Arsenal!

CLANG! The sound of metal surprised Lance and his team as they found the young hero's swords did not cut deeply on Red Arsenal's right-hoof.

"What the?!" Lance asked in shock.

"Warning! I'm detecting metal from his right hoof!" Metalgear stated in concern.

"Now you tell me?!" Lance asked angrily.

Before Lance could do anything, Red Arsenal's right hood slowly transformed into a small Gem Revolver. The latter fired Lance off before taking the swords out. Lance groaned in annoyance as he tried to punch on Red Arsenal but dodged it four times. Red Arsenal quickly grabbed Lance's head as the former thrown the latter hard and high yet away from him.

Lance was thrown right at his friends. They helped and checked on him as they hoped he was okay. Red Arsenal approached as he threw Twin Dragon Swords at them. Red Arsenal armed his bow and arrow at them.

Dragoking growled in anger before roared wildly as he charged at Red Arsenal. The latter had his horn glowed in darker crimson aura as he summoned the force-field. It deflected Dragoking's charge. The Hydragoon hissed in anger as he attacked again at the force-field for few times. 

Red Arsenal smirked. As Dragoking launched another attack, Red Arsenal jumped and hovered over it before landed on the ground. Dragoking suddenly had crimson blinking on his body. He roared in anger as he was about to attack. Red Arsenal held the detonator controller out. Everyone stopped from what they were doing.

"Call off your pet," Red Arsenal ordered angrily, "Or he can say goodbye now!"

Metalgear nodded his head, "Arsenal's right. Scans indicates Explosive Detonators have been attached on Hydragoon."

As Shiroi helped the young hero up, Lance groaned in annoyance, "Okay, okay. Dragoking, stand down now."  Dragoking looked shock yet concern but upon looking at his master's looks. He hissed in upset while glaring at Red Arsenal. Lance turned and looked at Red Arsenal, "Do you mind now?"

Red Arsenal smirked, "Not at all." As Red Arsenal approached Dragoking, he deactivated all detonators. Dragoking remained still yet calm but glared and snarled at him. He continued, "I hope my demonstration snap you out to reality. Because no matter what you did, everything's not fine."

Lance's team didn't like what Red Arsenal did to Lance and Dragoking yet they had to admit of his skills, strengths and resourceful. But they also felt like there was something more to him than meets the eye.

Shiroi spoke first, "Red... Did something happen to you? Was it something had make you... angry?"

As soon as Red Arsenal removed all the detonators from Dragoking, he turned and looked at Lance's team. He spoke, "Lots of them. I'd never forget that very day..." They all looked at him. He continued, "It happens four years ago. I met someone from the Royal Guards. He inspired me to be a hero. And so I joined them to be the best archer across the Equestria. That pony became my mentor. He trained me. It was great day..."

Boomer yawned, "Isn't there gonna be sad or tragic?"

Rob whacked Boomer's head hard while shushed, "Quiet!"

"After years of training, I finally join the army and ready to fight besides with my mentor. But instead, I was promoted to be drill sergeant. I was furious and angry about training the rookies. So I left the Royal Guards." Red Arsenal sighed while looking down, "And that was my biggest mistake."

"What happen?" Spike asked in concern.

Red Arsenal looked up and gave them his firm and serious face, "I went to Demon Land to defeat at least one Demon Lord. I want to prove that I can be more reliable and effective. But I got captured by Elite Commander." Everyone was in shock as he continued while lifting his right hoof up, "They tortured me. They amputated my right hoof. And the worst of it, they experimented me. They were trying to control the ponies by having more metal mind spell within their bodies."

"What happen next?" Spike asked in concern.

Red Arsenal continued, "The last thing I remembered was trapped inside the cryo-containment pod. And the next, I woke up and found myself lost at Thunder Armored Domain. Someone saved and freed me. But left me 'Cybernetic Hoof' for the replacement. But I know one thing to do. I lost everything. It has taken away from me. I want revenge. I'll do anything to make them pay."

Lance's team was in silent for the moment as they heard his story very much. It reminded them so much of it.

"I'm gonna guess that it didn't go well," Lance asked in concern.

Red Arsenal nodded, "You've got that right. Revenge is a long way to accomplish but the satisfaction-" He lifted his Cybernetic Hoof up while smirked proudly, "- is quite better than revenge. It's quite exquisite I've gotta say. It's a good exercise for me to use this. So I can take down my enemies without second thoughts."

Dragoking lowered his head before Red Arsenal as he looked at the latter's eyes for the moment. He bowed before him. Red Arsenal was shocked yet surprised, along with Lance and his friends.

"Dragoking... acknowledge you..." Lance remarked in shock before he continued, "Your story reminds all of us about my dad's struggle and pain. He did want to prove to Mystic Ponies that he was part of them but he chose and love my mother." He sighed, "He suffered heavily and almost lost himself for a revenge."

Shiroi approached to Red Arsenal as she spoke, "We're very sorry for what had happen to you. We really do."

Nyx nodded her head, "Yeah... I know how it feels to be taken away from your family. I've been there before. Demon Lords are now after both me and Spike."

Spike nodded his head, "But that doesn't mean we're gonna let them catch us because our family needs us. We'll be back home."

"By my calculation, by having more quantity and quality to our group, we have possible chance in surviving," Metalgear suggested calmly.

Rob hummed calmly, "Well, Red Arsenal shown to be well-trained and experienced archer. And not to mention, he's quite resourceful too. We could use that."

Boomer yelped in shock, "You're not seriously bring him into our group, are you?"

Lance hummed calmly before he looked at his friends, "Well, I'm okay with it. Anyone else?"

Almost Lance's team agreed by raising their hoofs or claws up. Boomer ignored it before Grunt nudged on his shoulder. The crimson dragon growled in annoyance as he raised his claw up in agreement. It was settle...

Red Arsenal looked shock yet surprise as he spoke, "Now hold on a minute! Don't I get to say about it?"

"Well you said that you don't want us to be in danger," Jade giggled a bit while shrugged, "So it looks like you'll be hanging with us till the end."

Red Arsenal sighed in annoyance, "Fine. Just so you know, I'm not a team player. And trust me on this, Justicestrike - I'm more on the solo player."

Lance smirked before nodded his head, "We get it. So, then - shall we?"

Red Arsenal looked at Lance's group. It surprised yet shocked him to see a group of two teenage Unicorn and Pegasus along with five fillies, a baby dragon, three teenage dragons, a Metal Pony and a Hydragoon. He didn't like it yet he saw them something special and effective.

Red Arsenal smirked, "Sure - lead the way, Justicestrike."

With Red Arsenal joined Lance's team, they moved and marched out as they were heading straight to the Palace of Thunder Armored Domain to retrieve their targeted ingredient...





Dragon Kick's Rescue Team and Metal Pony Colony woke up as they all had breakfast and packed all of their stuffs and supplies. They were preparing to move out again. 

Dragon Kick and Tailtech helped Metal Ponies of how they escaped the Demon Land while leading them straight to Ponyville. Lightningblade gave the Metal Pony Elder and Metal Pony Captain a map. Both sides said goodbye to each other before they left.

Metal Pony Colony left and headed straight to the Equestria. Dragon Kick's team continued searching and looking for Lance's team before bad things could have happen.





Lance and his team continued walking through the ruins and moody of Thunder Armored Domain. They also armed themselves in ready to fight and attack as they all felt like they've been watched by their hidden enemies from trees, hills or rocks.

Spike gulped in concern, "We've been watched. And I really can't stand on the ambush. They always freaks me."

"Me too, Spike," Nyx admitted in concern, "But how do we find our enemies? They could be anywhere. They could strike us at anytime."

Shiroi held Nyx tight to her as she comforted the little one, "It's okay. We won't let them get you or Spike. I promise, Nyx."

Lance and his team nodded their heads in agreement. Nyx smiled in relief.

"You wouldn't have to worry about the spies or ambush," Red Arsenal said calmly. Everyone looked at him as he held the detonator remote controller. He pressed it down. BOOM! The trees, hills and stone were covered by the blazing fire which shock and surprise Lance and his friends. Reptilian Warriors fell to the ground or came out from their hiding as they all screamed in pain and agony before their deaths. He smirked proudly, "I took care of them."

Boomer groaned in annoyance, "You could have told us about it, Jerksenal!"

"Yeah! You could have us killed by your deto- whatever it was!" Scootaloo complained.

Jade nodded her head angrily, "Yeah! That was not funny, buddy!"

Red Arsenal scoffed, "That's the least of our concern. Be grateful that we don't have to deal with Tchang Zu's Ultimate Weapon."

"Ultimate Weapon?" Lance asked in shock, "What is the Ultimate Weapon we're dealing with, Red Arsenal?"

"Not what, Justicestrike," Red Arsenal replied firmly and darkly as he had his eyes narrowed in anger, "It's who. And trust me. He doesn't have a conscience to think. His name is Deathface."

Before any of Lance's team could ask, the explosion was sounded from a far. Everyone yelped in shock and surprise. They looked around of their surroundings in search of the source. They saw the black smoke coming out from the west. They all headed straight to it.

After passing the hallway of dead forest, they came out from the forest. They all gasped in shock as they saw the destructive and devastated site of barren wasteland yet its atmosphere was more darker and fouler than factory's pollution smokes. It had more of burnt marks. Lance's team commented of how terrible the battlefield was.

They heard some screaming in anger. They saw the giant metal gate on the west site. They quickly hid behind the debris and ruined of walls, barricades, fences and towers while crawling and approaching to the front. Upon reaching it, they hid behind the large debris as they all took a peek on the front. To their surprise, they saw the grayish Earth Pony with spiky blazing crimson mane and short tail and his Cutie Mark was armored Chakram with fire icon within. He armed with the Chakrams in ready to fight.

"Come on, Deathface!" The Earth Pony exclaimed in anger and wild, "Come on out now, so I can kick your freaking butt! Get out now, metal freak!"

"What the-?! Is that the pony?" Spike asked in shock.

Shiroi nodded her head, "It is, Spike. But is he crazy?! Is he trying to get himself killed?!"

Upon looking at the Earth Pony, Red Arsenal groaned in annoyance, "I shouldn't have known it was him. That idiot always gets himself killed."

"You know him?" Lance asked in shock.

Red Arsenal nodded his head, "Yeah. That guy's name is Steel Blaze. And unlike you, Justicestrike; he doesn't have his own cause. That idiot thinks he's the fighter champion of the world. And not to mention, he wants everyone to 'get memorize' of him. What an idiot if he thinks he can beat Deathface!"

Boomer shrugged, "I don't know. I think I like this guy."

Nyx gasped as she shushed her team, "Guys, I heard something. Something's coming out from the Gate!"

Lance's team looked up as they saw the gate opened in two. They saw the metal humanoid titan demon with the black screen of crimson scarred face. He was armed with left Gatling Diamond Blaster and right pincer claw. He slowly came out from the gate.

Cutie Mark Crusaders yelped in concern, "What is that thing?!"

"Warning! Scans indicate that the enemy is advanced danger and equipped with strong weapon," Metalgear said in concern.

Rob gulped, "Now that's Arsenal..."

"Who is he?" Lance asked in concern.

"That's him - Deathface," Red Arsenal spoke firmly, "Tchang Zu's Ultimate Weapon but also Elite Commander. And trust me on this; he's the real monster. He's ruthless, emotionless and heartless. Like I said before, he has no conscience. And he's the one who defeat me and tore my hoof apart! He's the one I want!"

"Oh my god," Shiroi said in concern, "Steel Blaze gonna get himself killed by that monster!"

"We've gotta do something now," Boomer exclaimed in concern.

"Don't waste it. Steel Blaze won't ask for any help. He's a stubborn as the mule. So save it," Red Arsenal said sternly as everyone was in shock of what he had said. He continued, "I tried to get him out of here. But he won't listen. He's an idiot."

Everyone was in shock and concern of what Red Arsenal had said. They turned and looked at the battlefield. They all watched the battle between Steel Blaze and Deathface. The fight was about to start...

"It ends now!" Steel Blaze exclaimed in anger.

Steel Blaze activated the chakrams in unleashing the blazing fires. He charged in as he swung his right side on top but blocked by Deathface's both arms. The fighter pony stroke on the left but the machine titan blocked with his rifle. Steel Blaze struck his right on right side but Deathface deflected the attack off before rammed his rifle on the fighter off.

Deathface fired his Gatling Diamond Blaster at Steel Blaze. The latter dodged the blasts while rolling away from it. He then headed to the front. He unleashed the Blazing Glory Blasts at the machine titan. Deathface summoned the Force-Field Spell in blocking and deflecting the blasts. 

Steel Blaze went around of the monster while firing Fire Strike Shots at him. As the fight continued firing his Fire Strike Shots, Deathface armed his Pincer Claw and launched it right on the fighter. The machine titan swung his grappling claw of fighter pony on right, left and up-to-down for few times. Deathface threw Steel Blaze right on the walls hard.

Deathface charged and rammed straight at Steel Blaze. The fighter pony dodged to his left before the machine titan rammed on the walls. Deathface turned and ready to fight but Steel Blaze struck his Dragon Blaze Slash at the former for 10 times. Deathface grasped his Pincer Claw on the fighter pony as he threw the latter to the ground hard. Deathface stomped on Steel Blaze's face for three times. Steel Blaze struck his right chakram on Deathface's chest hard before kicked the latter off.

Steel Blaze was about to attack but got blasted off by Deathface's Gatling Diamond Blaster. Steel Blaze fell to the ground hard. The fighter pong got shot by his chest as he moaned painfully. Everyone looked shock and concern of what they were seeing.

Lance groaned in anger, "We've gotta help him now!"

Lance was about to go but stopped by Red Arsenal as the latter replied, "Don't waste your time. He won't listen to your reason. And trust me, he doesn't want help."

Lance was in shock, along wit his friends. They couldn't abandon him. They couldn't but how could Red Arsenal said it...

Deathface chuckled calmly, "Predictable... Predictable... Predictable..."

Steel Blaze groaned in annoyance, "Predict this, damn machine!" He swung his Chakram at Deathface's chest hard. He coughed a bit, "I won't stop until I get what I got lost to you and your damn master!"

"Pathetic..." Deathface said darkly as he armed his Gatling Diamond Blaster at Steel Blaze, "Perish..."

As Deathface was about to fire his rifle, Lance charged in as he rammed at the machine titan out. He armed his Twin Dragon Swords in ready to fight. Everyone was in shock and surprise of what they saw. They quickly came out from their hiding and headed to Lance's and Steel Blaze's position. Lance's team checked and helped Steel Blaze.

Deathface narrowed his angry eyes, "Intruders... Experiment... Located..."

Lance's eyes narrowed in anger, "You've got that right. You'd better pick somebody's on your own size, Deathface..."

"Annoying... Annoying..." Deathface said darkly as he armed both Gatling Diamond Blaster and Pincer Claw, "Princess... Must... Retrieved... Targets... Must... Destroyed..."

"Like hell I would," Lance exclaimed in anger.

"Justicestrike, don't!" Red Arsenal exclaimed in anger.

Lance charged in as he swung his Twin Dragon Swords at Deathface but the latter dodged and avoided the attacks quickly and sometimes blocked and deflected them off for twelve times. Lance slammed his on top of Deathface but grabbed by his neck from the latter. Deathface slammed Lance to the ground hard. Deathface punched on Lance's face hard and harder for many times. Deathface grabbed and thrown Lance to the front.

Deathface used his Gatling Diamond Blaster in firing straight at Lance who blocked and deflected the blasts. Lance charged straight at Deathface as he tried to use his Zen Slash on the latter. The machine titan used his pincer claw in deflecting and blocking the strike for six times. As Lance charged from his back, Deathface swung and slammed his rifle on the former to the ground.

When Lance fell to the ground, he had his swords dropped to the ground. As he was about to reach them, Deathface jumped and slammed on them to pieces. Everyone was in shock and feared.

"No... NO!" Lance shouted in denial.

Everyone gathered around on Lance's position as they ready to fight and covered him from attacks. Deathface armed with his small canon-like again. He targeted right at Lance's team. The canon slowly charging up like it was ready to fire.

"Target... Eliminated..." Deathface said darkly.

"Hold your breathe!" Red Arsenal exclaimed.

Red Arsenal threw some smoke bombs on the ground. As the black smoke emerged, Deathface fired his Death Canon at the targets. With the blast blown the smoke away, Lance and his team was nowhere to be sights. Deathface looked around the surroundings. He turned back as he found some footprints on the ground which led to the dead forest.

"Return... Duel... Me..." Deathface said darkly and cruelly.





At the dead forest area, Lance's team and Steel Blaze were taking the break while recovering from the shocks and attacks. Everyone asked each other if they were okay. They all answered 'they're okay and fine'. But not for Lance...

Lance looked at his broken Twin Dragon Swords. Its blades were shattered. He sighed in defeat. Red Arsenal approached and glared at Lance.

"You shouldn't have fight with him," Red Arsenal said dryly.

Lance glared at Red Arsenal, "What am I supposed to do? Just leave Steel Blaze to die?! I don't think so. I won't turn my back on him!"

"Well, you should, kid." The voice said dryly. Everyone turned and looked at Steel Blaze in approaching to Lance. He continued, "And by the way, he's right. I don't need help. If you hadn't come, you wouldn't lose your swords..."

"That's not important. Your life is! I can't just let you died!"

Steel Blaze punched on Lance's face to the ground, "Well, I didn't ask your help, kid! So, stay out of it! And I really mean it! I'm going back. And this time, I can win it."

Everyone but Red Arsenal was in shock of what Steel Blaze had said. He wanted to go back and fight with Deathface? Was he serious?! Steel Blaze turned as he was about to move out. Lance yelled angrily as he jumped and pounced on Steel Blaze to the ground. Lance punched on Steel Blaze before the latter kicked him off. Both Lance and Steel Blaze punched and kicked at each other hard and quick for few times.

Nyx's team were in shock and agony while Red Arsenal looked pleased and interested on it. They all watched on the fight between Lance and Steel Blaze. 

Steel Blaze gave Lance an uppercut before the latter swiped the kick on Steel's legs hard. Steel tripped Lance to the ground hard before he got up and stomped on the latter's head. Lance rolled over to the front. Steel charged in to give Lance some punched but kicked off. Lance got up and punched on Steel's face for three times before rammed Steel off. Steel quickly kicked Lance's face hard. They both got up and glared at each other for the moment.

Lance and Steel Blaze continued punching and kicking at each other's while blocking and deflecting for few times. For the moment had passed, they both looked tired and exhausted. They gave the final punches right on each other's faces. After the punches, they growled and sighed in pain as they all fell their backs on the ground.

"I hate to admit, kid," Steel Blaze panted, "You really got some guts."

Lance panted, "Thanks... But I need to know. Why? Why do you want to be a champion? Why do you have to fight with Deathface so badly? And don't you ignore me again..."

Steel Blaze sighed in defeat as he lost the fight to Lance. He spoke, "Deathface took my sister..." Everyone gasped in shock and surprise. He continued, "Her name was Alyson Joy. She was kinda like yours, kiddo. She and I were playing at the park everyday, but suddenly - a black portal appeared. It took me and her to this stupid land. That's where I met him. I tried to fend him off but I've lost. And he took her..."

Everyone and even Red Arsenal were in shock yet surprise and pity for Steel Blaze of trying to protect his sister but ended up being defeated.

"So, that's why you keep fighting with him? But why lied to any of us?"

"Because if I did, no one cared to help. I ask some help to save a kid but no one cares. So, I have to rely on myself to win the fight. I tried my best to beat Deathface but ended up beaten. I couldn't save her until I heard about you and your gang from three days ago."

"Really?"

"Yeah... The way you handle and fight with four Demon Lords, wow - that was awesome and cool, dude. It gave me some hope to fight back. And of course, I want to see if you're really the one. Good job."

Lance smiled, "Thanks." He got up as he helped Steel Blaze up from the ground. his team approached and gathered around him. He continued, "If we want to save your sister, we need to work together. Right, everyone?"

"Yeah!" Lance's team exclaimed proudly and happily.

Red Arsenal sighed in annoyance, "Yeah... I guess so. But you owe me lots of favor for saving your flank, idiot."

"As if," Steel Blaze scoffed, "And you sure you can handle the fight without the weapon, kid? It was very special to you, wasn't it?"

Lance sighed as he picked his broken Twin Dragon Swords up, "Yeah, it was. It was given to me by a Griffin Blacksmith. I owe him very much. I don't know if there's a way to repair my swords."

Everyone hummed as they were thinking of how to repair Lance's damaged swords.

Steel Blaze smirked, "I know someone who can help us."

Lance's team all looked at him with their shock and surprise looks of what Steel Blaze had said...





Deep of the dead forest, it was ancient Japanese Blacksmith's Workshop. Someone was working inside the shop as he was hammering and working on making swords. He was a Griffin but very unlikely as well. His head and body was a black haired white lion with eagle wings and his face had an eagle's beak. As he continued working on weapons, he heard the whistle. He turned back and found Steel Blaze smiling at him.

Blacksmith Griffin chuckled a bit, "Well, if it isn't my fiery friend? How're you doing? Don't tell me that you've lost the fight again."

"Um... Yeah... You've got that right, Comet Star," Steel Blaze admitted sheepishly before cleared his throat, "But there was someone else need help."

"Who?" 

"Them..."

Steel Blaze turned and shown Lance's team before Comet Star. The blacksmith griffin was in shock and surprise to see some ponies coming to Demon Land. Lance and his team explained to Comet Star of what had happen. Lance shown his broken swords before the griffin. Comet Star sighed in concern of what he heard. Everyone looked worry and concern of what they heard. They knew bad news is coming.

"Bad news is... The Twin Dragon Swords are beyond to repair," Comet Star said grimly. Lance looked down before sighed in concern and upset. He continued, "But there's some special swords I've been keeping for a long time."

"Really?" Lance asked hopefully yet concerned.

Comet Star nodded his head as he picked Twin Dragon Sabers up. Everyone sighed in relief to hear that Comet Star have new swords but Lance wasn't sure of having his swords replaced. The blacksmith griffin turned to his shop's back in search of the weapons. 

For the moment had passed, Comet Star returned to them. He had two swords covered by the cloth. He opened them for everyone to see. They all awed in surprise and amazed. Comet Star held the strong Asian Katana's blackish handler with golden dragon and European Sword's whitish handler with blossoming flower.

"This is Oblivion Dragoon Blade," Comet Star explained while holding blackish sword before hold the white one, "And this is Oathkeeper Blossom Blade. Both of them are made of Light and Darkness Stones. Oblivion Dragoon Blade is the most effective and strongest sword to fight its enemies from Darkness Stone while Oathkeeper Blossom Blade is made of pure mystic magic to dispel the evil spirits or spells from Light Stone. And above all; when you wield them together, you'll be unbeatable."

"Whoa..." Lance's team said in shock and amaze by Comet Star's swords.

Comet Star gave both swords to Lance as the latter looked at them carefully. While he was amazed and surprised by them, but he felt saddened and pain to see his swords to be replaced. He didn't want to replace them...

"Is there something wrong?" Comet Star asked in concern.

Lance shook his head, "It's nothing. It's just that..." He sighed, "Twin Dragon Swords were given by my old friend from old times. He was the best blacksmith for giving me them without the fee. He told me that they chose me for a reason. And... And I let them destroyed..."

Comet Star nodded his head, "I understand. But I assure you one thing, Lance. Twin Dragon Swords had been upgraded..."

"Evolve? What do you mean by that? You told me that my swords are beyond repairs."

"Yes. But I'd never say it's beyond upgrade. You see; both Oblivion Dragon Blade and Oathkeeper Blossom Blade were actually Twin Dragon Swords' Upgrades. It's my ancestor has been working for."

"Wait- what?!" Lance asked in shock. His team was in shock and surprise as well. He asked, "What do you mean?! And who was this your ancestor?"

Comet Star smiled, "Paul Williams is my ancestor - the very same one who had given you Twin Dragon Swords." Everyone gasped in shock and surprise of what they heard. He continued, "He knew that you'll seek new swords out. And thus, he worked so hard to find both Light and Darkness Stone in merging together with the blades. When the time comes, both of them can finally fuse together with your swords."

Lance looked at both Oblivion Dragon Blade and Oathkeeper Blossom Sword. He was in shock and surprise by it. He sobbed and cried. His team came and checked on him to see if he was okay or not. He had tears of joy of having his old friend - Paul Williams prepared the special yet upgraded swords for him to use. He was thankful.

"Thank you so much, Paul..." Lance thanked happily. He then looked at Comet Star, "And thank you too. I'll treasured them as much as I can. I'll keep these upgrades safe."

Comet Star smiled, "I'm sure you did..."

Lance sheathed both Oblivion Dragon Blade and Oathkeeper Blossom Blade. He turned to his friends. He smiled proudly.

"Alright, everyone - let's get ready for round two."





Lance's team including Comet Star returned to the battlefield. They found Deathface waiting at the Metal Gate as if he was expecting to return to them. And they were ready to face him. They came towards him. They stopped as they all glared at him. Lance and Steel Blaze were ready to fight for the second round.

"Surrender... Now..." Deathface said darkly.

"As if," Steel Blaze scoffed as he armed himself with his Blazing Chakrams, "We're gonna finish what we had started."

Lance nodded his head as he unsheathed both Oblivion Dragon Blaze and Oathkeep Blossom Blade, "Yeah! And this time, we're gonna knock you out, Deathface!"

Steel Blaze smirked as he pointed his hoof at his head, "Got it Memorized?"

"Extermination..." Deathface said darkly.

Deathface aimed his Gatling Diamond Blaster at both Lance and Steel Blaze. He fired his rifle at them. Both Lance and Steel Blaze blocked and deflected the blasts before charging straight at him.

"You'd think they can win," Red Arsenal asked curiously, "I wasn't sure if Deathface can handle both but I doubt it goes well."

Nyx huffed, "Don't be too sure. Lance can win. And he will again."

"Go kick his ass, Lance!" Boomer cheered and cried wildly.

As Lance's team cheered wildly for Lance and Steel Blaze, the latter fought and battled with Deathface who blocked and deflected the attacks quickly. Deathface quickly launched his grappling Pincer Claw at Steel Blaze but missed as the latter launched his Blazing Glory Blasts on the former's chest for few times. Lance jumped up and slammed his swords on Deathface's back head to the ground. 

Lance was about to thrust his swords down. Deathface fired his jet booster in escaping before getting up. The machine titan fired his Gatling Diamond Blaster at both Lance and Steel Blaze. Lance deflected the blasts quickly. Steel Blaze threw his chakrams at Deathface but the latter dodged. His chakrams turned around like a boomerang as they charged and struck the machine titan's head hard. Lance flew straight to Deathface as the former swung his swords hard and quick at the machine titan for few times.

As Lance was about to launch his Dragon Cross Strike on Deathface, the latter launched his Pincer Claw on the former straight to the ground hard. Deathface was about to fire his rifle at Mystic Pegasus. The blasts were hitting straight at Lance but Steel Blaze came and blocked the blasts. But the fighter pony received the shots. Steel Blaze groaned and moaned painfully before falling to the ground. Lance was in shock and concern. Deathface was about to fire his rifle again.

SWOOP! The arrow struck right at Deathface's rifle. It exploded, causing the machine titan to lose its rifle. Both Lance and Steel Blaze were in shock and surprise. They turned and found Red Arsenal armed with his bow and arrow.

"Mind if I join the party?" Red Arsenal asked in amusement.

"Be my guess," Lance replied.

Steel Blaze smirked, "I'm gonna be the first one to finish him. Got it Memorized?"

Red Arsenal nodded his head. He continued firing his arrows straight at Deathface who swung his pincer at them to pieces. But three to five hit on his chest before they exploded. Deathface fell to the ground hard. 

As soon as Deathface got up, he saw both Lance and Steel Blaze charged at him. They both struck their weapons at him. The machine titan blocked them with his only pincer. Lance quickly swung his Oathkeeper Blossom Blade and Steel Blaze swung his left chakram on the machine's legs before they kicked him off. They swung their weapons at him hard. Steel Blaze rammed at Deathface's chest hard before they both pushed at each other hard and quickly for the moment.

With Steel Blaze's smirk, he quickly grabbed Deathface's pincer before unleashing the blazing fire on his chakram. They were burning and melting the pincer into liquid. Steel Blaze kicked the latter off. Lance charged in as he unleashed his Zen Slash at Deathface for ten times before Oathkeeper Blossom Blade's Dawn Blade Stroke and Oblivion Dragon Blade's Night Curse Strike on him off. As Deathface was thrown away from them, Red Arsenal used his Cybernetic Arm into Arsenal Canon as he blasted the machine titan's chest hard. Deathface was damaged and wounded badly.

Lance's team cheered and cried wildly in seeing them winning the fight. Deathface stood up and glared at Lance, Red Arsenal and Steel Blaze. He summoned his Death Canon with it quickly charging up. Red Arsenal charged up his Cybernetic Arm, along with Steel Blaze did to his Blazing Chakrams and Lance did to both Oblivion Dragon Blade and Oathkeeper Blade.

Deathface fired his Death Canon out while the trio fired their special attacks - Red Arsenal's Oblivion Destroyer Beam, Steel Blaze's Blazing Mighty Strike and Lance's Twin Dragon Hyperbeam. Both sides had clashed for the moment. Nyx's team cheered wildly for the trio. With their cheers and their determination, the trio cried wildly and determinedly as they shot their trio blasts straight at Deathface's chest out - leaving him a hole. Deathface fell to the ground...

Lance's team cheered wildly and happily upon winning the fight. They came together and commented to the trio. Lance, Red Arsenal and Steel Blaze smiled proudly.

"Glad to see that metal freak go down. But not bad for the stubborn fighter," Red Arsenal remarked before scoffed, "Not that you can beat my resourceful and intellect that easily."

Steel Blaze scoffed, "You stick with your brains. I stick with my brawn. Got it Memorized?"

"Guys... It's our teamwork that win the fight," Lance insisted calmly before Red Arsenal and Steel Blaze looked at him. He smiled, "Got it Memorized?"

Both Red Arsenal and Steel Blaze chuckled a bit, "Yeah, got it."

Shiroi hugged Lance tightly and passionately, "I'm so glad to see you alright. You're an amazing, Lance!"

Metalgear nodded his head, "Your performance had never cease to amaze me, comrade. I'm proud to be your teammate."

"Thanks," Lance said happily. He turned to Comet Star, "Thanks for giving me the upgrades, Comet Star. I couldn't have done it without you."

Comet Star blushed while having his lion's hair scratched, "Aw... Don't mention it. I did what my ancestor would have wanted. After all, I'm just a Blacksmith."

"but it's awesome," Spike insisted happily, "The way Lance did with his new swords - that was so amazing! And not to mention, Red Arsenal and Steel Blaze are kinda cool."

"Thanks," Red Arsenal and Steel Blaze thanked proudly.

"That's one Elite Commander down," Nyx said proudly before Lance patted on Nyx's mane, "And now we can go save Alyson and get the Thunder Serpent's Scale!"

"Yeah! We're ready for the next challenge!" Cutie Mark Crusaders cried wildly and happily.

Boomer scoffed, "The next fight is gonna be mine. And I'm gonna show you all that I won't go down easily without the fight."

"I am Grunt..." Grunt said in annoyance while shaking his head.

Rob sighed, "You could said that again, Grunt... He still don't get it."

"Foolish ponies..." The computerized voice said darkly and sinisterly. Lance's team turned and found Deathface was still function. He continued while coughing, "Defeating me will not bring you more success. Your journey is a failure. The further and deeper you go, the more death you shall experience..."

Steel Blaze huffed in annoyance as he armed his blazing chakram at Deathface, "Don't know what you were talking, but bo-ring!"

BOOM! Deathface's head was exploded by Steel Blaze's Blazing Glory Shot. With the Elite Commander's defeated, the Metal Entrance slowly opened in two. They were now seeing the large yet demonically English Castle-like, with more thundering cloud shooting its lightning out for few times.

"Looks like this is our next stop," Red Arsenal said firmly and seriously.

Lance nodded his head, "Yeah... But we're ready. No matter what Tchang Zu throw at us, we can handle it. Let's go!"

Lance's team marched off as they all heading straight to Tchang Zu's Thundering Palace. They were ready for the next battle to fight with Tchang Zu and retrieve the Thunder Serpent's Scale...

To Be Continued...

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