//------------------------------//
// Episode 16.5: The Kingdom of the Apes 
// Story: My Little Pony Mystic Season 1 
// by Shadow Master 
//------------------------------//

After Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie learned the location of Friendship Problem, they set their course off to Western Dragon Kingdom - home of benevolent and peaceful ponies and creatures and Ape Nation - kingdom of all apes. Whatever they may find at that place, they'd better be prepared for the mission.

For three hours have passed, the train reached to the station which located at the rice fields and some villages and hometown. Ponies emerged and came down the train, including Fluttershy and Pinkie. 

As soon as two heroines exited the train station, they stopped for the moment. They witnessed the landscape of Western Dragon Kingdom - large fields of rice and vegetables, farmland, villages and hometowns. They even saw farmers and workers working with deer, buffalo and dragons together as one. They awed in amazement.

"Wow... Now this is what we called 'peaceful' town!" Pinkie remarked happily. She looked around the farmland as well as the ponies. She smiled, "Now this is what we called the real smile, unlike Starlight Glimmer's old home."

Fluttershy nodded, "Indeed, it is. So, how do we find the Friendship Problem?"

"I have no idea! Cool words from Twilight in first movie of Equestria Girls!"

"Oh, Pinkie... You are so random..." Fluttershy commented. She then spotted two greenish armored Western Guards. She said, "Maybe the guards can take us to the Benevolent Palace. We can ask Saber Dragoon or the Emperor himself about it."

"Great idea!" Pinkie exclaimed happily, "Come on!"

Fluttershy and Pinkie approached to the Western Guards as they were here to find Saber Dragoon or Emperor Virtue Dragon from Benevolent Palace. The Guards were surprise and shock to hear. They quickly prepare the carriage for Fluttershy and Pinkie. The Guards held the carriage's shoulder holder. They all headed straight for Benevolent Palace.

The Guards were galloping across the road to the Benevolent Palace.

"Your grace! It is an honor to have you both here in our kingdom," Western Guard #1 said happily.

Western Guard #2 nodded, "Yes. We have heard about your tale and adventure. They were truly amazing and inspiring! So, you are here to solve the Friendship Problem just as you did for Hometown, Griffonstone and Imperial Phoenix Kingdom from Northern Ma?"

"Well, when you put that way," Pinkie said in puzzle before smiled, "Yes! That's what we're going to do here."

Fluttershy sighed, "We still have no idea what is the problem here."

Western Guard #1 smiled, "I'm pretty sure that there wasn't a problem here. You have nothing to worry."

SWOOP! Western Guards yelped in shock as they stopped at once. They spotted arrow struck on the ground. Both Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie looked concern and worry of what they just saw.

Western Guard #2 gulped as he chuckled a bit, "Maybe... A little problem..."

Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie looked at each other for the moment. They know what they have to do, even though they're not strong and fast (well, just Fluttershy) as Applejack or Rainbow Dash, or even smart and magical as Twilight Sparkle.

"Can you take us to where that arrow came from?" Fluttershy asked politely.

Both Western Guards gasped in surprise. They looked at each other as they wondered. Are they willing to lead the girls to the battlefield?!





Western Guards held and carried the carriage all the way to the Benevolent Palace's Fortress Walls. They all stopped at once. Fluttershy and Pinkie gasped in shock as they saw more of Western Dragon Kingdom army were reinforcing the castle walls and entrance. Western Ma was under attacked!

Most of Buffalo Warriors held the entrance door with their mighty and tight strengths from letting it breached and rammed. Western Dragon Guards were on the towers or castle walls as they all armed and aimed their Ballistas, Arbalests and Catapults in firing at the invaders. Western Ponies were armed with their weapons. Some climbed to the castle walls in preparing their archery, rifles and stones to throw. Others charged through the secret entrance to outside in helping and defending against the invaders.  

Pinkie and Fluttershy climbed up the stairs to the castle walls. They wanted to see and know what is going on. 

They gasped in surprise as they witnessed the large army of different kinds of Apes attacking and invading the Western Ma. Western Dragon Kingdom were battling against the Ape Nation Invaders from entering and attacking Western Ma.

Fluttershy gasped, "What in the world-?!"

"Oh my goodness!" Pinkie Pie exclaimed in shock, "Are those monkeys, gorillas, baboons, chimpanzees, Orangutan and more monkeys?!"

"I think it is. But why would the Apes attacked Western Dragon Kingdom?! I thought they were friends!"

"I don't know. But if we don't help our friends now, there's no telling what those monkeys will do with Western Dragon Kingdom!! If our friends are gone, there's no telling what the monkeys will do next!?! They could be stealing all of our bananas!"

Fluttershy sighed, "You're right. We've got to help our friends now! I hate doing this!"

Pinkie patted Fluttershy's back, "Me too. Come on! We've got to help them now!"

Pinkie and Fluttershy armed with their weapons and readied themselves in assisting and helping Equestria's Allies at once. They have to make sure that Western Dragon Kingdom won't fall or be defeated by the Ape Nation.

Both Western Dragon Kingdom and Ape Nation fought bravely and ferociously in winning the battle.

Veteran Shot the old yellow Earth Pony with white long bear and small mane and tail dressed in his yellowish robe with dragon green armor firing his arrows at his enemies while ordered the archers and rifle units in firing their arrows and blasters at the Ape Nation Invaders. The old veteran general dodged and avoided the arrows while taking the aim and fired his arrows straight at the Apes from infantry units, riders unit, climbing units on ladder, arsenal units and even workers accurately and quick.

Dragonspear and Justice Tackle the yellowish dragon armored white Pegasus were riding their white Fury and Speed Dragons in leading their Western Dragon Military Army against their enemies. Dragonspear swung his Dragoon Spear in slashing, knocking and defeating the Ape Nation Army while deflecting the arrows to pieces and blocking the monkeys' attacks. Justice Tackle unleashed his powerful Dragon Raid in charging and raiding across the large numbers of Ape Nation Army to pieces.

Western Dragon Kingdom fought bravely in defending their homes from the invaders. Ponies punched and kicked their enemies off or even used spears, swords, pikes and shields in beating them. Humanoid Dragons used their weapons in beating them while wild ones charged, rammed and bitten the invaders to pieces. Buffalo just rammed, charged and knocked the Ape Nation Invaders to pieces.

Ape Nation Invaders fought fiercely and ferociously in defeating Western Dragon Kingdom to pieces. Baboons, Mandrills and various small types of monkeys went wild in punching and scratching and even stabbing with their daggers on their enemies. Gorilla and large ones roared wildly as they punched, rammed, slammed and ripped them apart. Chimpanzees and various monkeys used their swords, spears and pikes in battling their enemies while blocking them off with their shields.

As Ape Nation and Western Dragon Kingdom continued battling with each other, Fluttershy and Pinkie joined the battlefield in assisting their allies. Veteran Shot, Dragonspear and Justice Tackle noticed it as they decided to ask later and worked together with them to defeat the invaders.

Pinkie used her Party Canon in blasting and knocking most of Ape Nation out in accurate speed while dodging and avoiding them catching or attacking her quickly as well. Fluttershy used her Animal Ruby in defeating Ape Nation by Elephant's Spirit in ramming and knocking them off, Monkey's spirit in dodging and avoiding the attacks, Cheetah's Spirit in running and raiding across them out, Armadillo's Spirit in rolling and charging in knocking them out, Bat's Spirit in unleashing powerful Sonic Wave at them and Mantis's Spirit in using her Twin Uppercut Attacks on them.

Western Dragon Kingdom were pushing Ape Nation back. They're winning the battle!

Chimpanzee General growled, "We've been overwhelmed! RETREAT!"

Ape Nation screeched and roared in fear and shock as they all turned and escaped. They all headed straight to the Southern Jungle before they lose their army and get killed by their enemies. Western Dragon Kingdom cheered wildly and happily as they have won the battlefield!

"Woohoo! We did it!" Pinkie exclaimed happily.

"For now, they'll be back," Dragonspear said in concern. Both Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie looked concern and horrified of what they just heard. He turned to them both as he smiled, "But we are relief to have reinforcement from you. I am Dragonspear - one of Five Dragon Generals. These two are old pony General Veteran Shot and raider General Justice Tackle."

"Hi, I'm Pinkie Pie! This here is Fluttershy," Pinkie explained happily.

Fluttershy nodded while smiling, "Can you explain to us of what really happen here?"

Dragonspear sighed, "Yes... But not here, let's return to the palace at once. Emperor Virtue Dragon needs to hear this."

Dragonspear and the main army returned to the Benevolent Palace at once. Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie followed them at once. They're about to get the answers very soon.

At the shadowy of jungle, the hooded pony watched the event while smiling darkly.

"Good... They're here. Both will be mine to collect for Qin Wang Di's resurrection. And this time, it will not be the same as last time. I am more prepared than before..."





Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie followed Dragonspear, Veteran Shot and Justice Tackle all the way to Benevolent Palace's Throne Chamber with the theme of golden Chinese Dragon and Chinese style. The girls saw and met the rest of military officers from left and advisors from right while the green Unicorn with black shortened yet sharp twin mustache and beard dressed in his white robe while his mane was pin by the Prime Minister's crown while holding his Feather Fan stood besides the Emperor's seat. 

As Dragonspear and his team returned to military side, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie stood still before the Emperor and Founder of Western Dragon Kingdom - a young lighted brown Earth Pony with the black mane in bun shape and short tail dressed in his dark green Imperial Dragon Armor and his Cutie Mark is Golden Dragon Symbol with twin blades.

Dragonspear cleared his throat, "Presenting to the Emperor of Western Ma - Emperor Virtue Dragon and Prime Minister Skysoar Intellect!"

Western Dragon Kingdom Officers and Advisors bowed down before the Emperor and Prime Minister of Western Ma. Fluttershy followed as well.

"Hey there!" Pinkie greeted happily.

Everyone but the Emperor and Prime Minister gasped in shock and concern. She cannot do that!

"Pinkie Pie! Show some respect!" Fluttershy scolded Pinkie.

"It's okay... I'm sure that not all ponies are lucky to have the rulers or monarch on their home," Virtue Dragon said calmly. Everyone within Military Army sighed. He continued, "You must be Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy from Ponyville? It is an honor to meet you in pony."

Fluttershy bowed, "We are honored as well, your highness."

"So, my new friends," Skysoar spoke up as he questioned firmly and calmly, "What brings you here? I'm sure you did not come here for vacation."

Pinkie Pie giggled, "Right again! The Map called us to come here and solve the Friendship Problems."

Everyone within the Throne Chamber chatted and muttered in concern and surprise of what they just heard. Their kingdom has some Friendship Problem?

"And I think that fighting with the Ape Nation could be the answer," Fluttershy said in concern, "What was that about? Why do they attacked you?"

Everyone within the chamber were in concern and scared. They wondered if they should tell Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie of what really happens.

Skysoar sighed, "We don't know why. All we know is that we have received some threaten messages from our allied monkeys - if we do not return their sacred artifact to them, then they will not stop until all of us are destroyed and sought it out."

"What artifact would that be?" Pinkie asked in concern.

Skysoar shook his head, "I wish we knew."

"Because we did not return their artifact or didn't realize that we have one," Dragonspear continued, "Ape Nation attacked and invaded our home for nearly two weeks."

"Indeed... We are lucky enough to hold and repelled the invasion with everything we've got," Justice Tackle said in concern, "But the fight with the monkey isn't over yet."

Veteran Shot nodded, "These monkeys are very relentless and crazy. They will do what they can to get inside and defeat all of us. They will get their 'artifact' by means of necessary."

Both Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie gulped in concern of what they just heard.

"Oh my gosh... That's terrible..." Fluttershy said in concern.

Virtue Dragon sighed, "Yes... I don't understand why and how could they attacked us. I'd never want to fight my own allied nation because they're my friends and brothers-in-arms. They're very important to me and this kingdom."

Pinkie Pie nodded, "That's cruel and meanie too! The Monkeys can't do that! I'm sure this is just a big misunderstanding! Somepony or monkey from their home was just playing the prank."

"You maybe onto something," Skysoar said in concern, "This could be the enemy's plot in separating our alliance apart. They know our strength and weaknesses. They want to destroy it and let our own allies to defeat and destroy us."

Dragonspear hissed, "This isn't good..."

"We cannot let that happen!" Justice Tackle exclaimed while stomped his front feet down hard.

"I agreed, lad. Neither us nor our allies will be destroyed," Veteran Shot agreed, "But how are we going to stop this from happening?"

"Have you try to talk with them?" Fluttershy asked.

Pinkie nodded happily, "Yeah. Talking with new ponies help us know the problem. After all, you and the Apes were friends once, right? That means you still can chat."

Skysoar hummed, "Yes. It's a good plan. We did plan to negotiate with the Apes but we did not have time because of the invasion. Now the Apes have retreated to the Southern. We now have the chance."

"I still think it's dangerous and risky," Veteran Shot said in concern, "The Southern Jungle terrain is very dangerous and tricky when it comes to the Apes especially the today's weather. It's gonna be very hot, mate."

"And not to mention, we have the Barbarian King to deal with. He is the leader of the Ape Nation. Defeating and capturing him won't be easy." Justice Tackle said in concern.

Dragonspear shook his head, "Do not be feared of what we cannot do. Prime Minister and I have been that terrain from many moons ago. We have defeated the Barbarian King's Ancestor and his tactics for seven times. We have overcame the obstacles before, then we can do it again."

"Yes, Dragonspear is right. We still have the chance to reach the Barbarian King." Skysour said thoughtfully. He turned to Virtue Dragon, "My lord! We must move out now. This is our chance."

Virtue Dragon stood up as he shown his firm and fierce face, "I agreed. Dragonspear shall be Grand Commander of the Force. Justice Tackle and Veteran Shot shall be the Generals of Right and Left Army. Rogue and Sparkler Shield shall be my bodyguards. Skysour is not only my advisor but also consultant. I shall lead the force. Our objective is simple - find and capture Barbarian King. We must not bring bloodshed to his monkeys. They're the essential to our forces."

"Understood!" Western Dragon Kingdom army exclaimed and bowed down.

Virtue Dragon sighed a bit before shown his firm again. "Prepare the army! We march at once!"

Pinkie and Fluttershy have their own private chats now about the mission.

"Do you think this is Friendship Problem?" Fluttershy asked.

Pinkie shrugged, "Well... It's the only thing we found so far. After all, I'm pretty sure it's just misunderstanding problem."

Fluttershy sighed, "I hope so... But why do I get the feeling that this isn't misunderstanding problem?"





An hour later...

Western Dragon Kingdom have prepared the army for not only invasion but also trying to find and capture Barbarian King from launching the invasion on Western Ma as well as understanding the problems behind 'Artifact Stolen'.

The army is up to 10,000 Army of Ponies, Dragons and Water Buffalo. Virtue Dragon is now the Leader of the Army while Dragonspear acted as the Grand Commander, Veteran Shot and Justice Tackle acted as the Generals of Right and Left Flank, the brown Unicorn with crimson spiky mane and short tail while his Cutie Mark is Broadsword - Rogue and a young lighted green Pegasus with shorty black gentle mane and tail and her Cutie Mark is sparkling shield - Sparkle Shield as the bodyguards and finally Skysour Intellect acted as the advisor and consultant of the campaign. They're all ready to enter the Southern Jungle.

Pinkie and Fluttershy joined the campaign as well. They believed that they can provide the aid and assistance in restoring the alliance between Ape Nation and Western Dragon Kingdom.

Fluttershy noticed Virtue Dragon talking with Blade Dragoon the crimson Unicorn with black long mane, mustache and beard and tail worn the greenish robe with golden dragon armor and headwear and Warpath Temper the dark brown Pegasus with black short spiky mane and tail and black mustache and beard worn the greenish General Armor.

Warpath Temper looked at Sparkle Shield, "Sparkly, just make sure that you're safe from danger. And whatever happens, look after your uncle lord. He's important family."

"I won't let you down, father," Sparkle Shield said firmly.

Blade Dragoon looked at Rogue, "My son... Do your best to protect our lord. And no matter what happens, you mustn't be defeated. I know you are strong and determined warrior."

Rogue nodded firmly, "Yes, father. You can count on me."

Both Rogue and Sparkle Shield turned and faced to the front as they mounted their Dragon Rides. They both headed to the front at once.

"Ever been to jungle before, Sparkle? I heard it's quite tropical and awesome," Rogue said happily.

Sparkle shook her head a bit, "No, Rogue. I'd never been there before. But I would like to try it. I heard they have various animals especially a giant mammal creature."

Rogue whistled, "Can't wait to try one from Ape Nation if we can end their invasion for good."

"Are you sure you can do it?" Warpath Temper asked in concern, "Going to the jungle sound dangerous. You could need some backup."

"Indeed. Thought Dragonspear and Master Skysour have been the jungle," Blade Dragoon said in concern, "you however are ready for this terrain. I feared for your safety, brother."

"Your concerns is noted. But as the Emperor of Western Dragon Kingdom, it is my duty to protect and keep everyone safe from harm," Virtue Dragon said firmly, "And that includes Ape Nation. So no matter what happens, keep our home safe."

Both Blade Dragoon and Warpath Temper looked at each other as they both disliked the idea in putting their older brother in danger. They sighed in concern as they know him well because he wants nothing more but protection of his nation and ponies.

"Alright. We'll do it. Be safe, brother." Both Blade Dragoon and Warpath Temper bowed.

Virtue smiled in relief as he bowed back, "Thank you. I promised that I will return home safely."

Fluttershy saw Virtue Dragon hugged both Blade Dragoon and Warpath Temper passionately. She hummed in concern yet upset for some reason. She took her amulet out as she opened it in two. She spotted her younger self hugged by older Pegasus figure as they both shown their happy smiles. She sighed unhappily.

"Fluttershy?" Pinkie asked in concern.

Fluttershy shook her head, "It's nothing. Come on. We have our mission to do."

"Okie Dookie Lookie!" Pinkie giggled happily.

As the Generals and Military Officers mounted on Dragon Rides, Virtue Dragon was the last one to ride on his White Shifter Dragon. Both Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy mounted on as well with both Dragonspear and Justice Tackle's rides. They're all ready for the mission.

Dragonspear approached Virtue Dragon, "Lord Virtue, we are ready."

Virtue Dragon nodded firmly as he turned to the front, "Warriors of Western Dragon Kingdom, we ride! To Southern Jungle!"

Virtue Dragon galloped at once. The 10,000 army of Western Dragon Kingdom followed and charged straight into the depths of jungle.





Within the ancient yet ruined theme of throne chamber, a giant black Chimpanzee worn the heavy armor and pants as well as the barbarian headwear was sitting down on his seat as he received the reports from his scout. He growled angrily while clenching his fists tightly.

"Kattu?! My love?" The gentle voice asked. Kattu turned and found the slimmed Chimpanzee worn purple bra and and a long skit-like as well as the headwear to cover her face. She approached Kattu, "Is everything alright?"

Kattu sighed heavily, "No, Zhu Rong. I am not. They refused to return our sacred artifact to us, and now they wanted to wage war against us. We shall fight back. They have no idea of how angry and upset we Apes really are! Prepare for WAR!"

"Yes, my king!" Chimpanzee Scout exclaimed.

Ape Nation is now in war against the Western Ma. The hooded pony was hidden behind the cornered cave as he smiled in pleased.

"Perfect... Skysour and Dragonspear may have been through Southern Jungle but Fluttershy, Pinkie and peasant Virtue aren't. All goes according to my plan. It's perfect."





In the late afternoon...

Western Dragon Kingdom continued marching to the Southern Jungle in search and hunt Kutta down and end his invasion of their home for good. But they soon found the terrain proved to be difficult to coordinate and travel due to the hot climate and the surroundings such as tight and cluttered trees, poison swamps, quicksand and some wild predators stalking the ponies with fear.

Though Skysour and Dragonspear have experienced the Southern Jungle before, this is the first time for other ponies to experience it.

Most of the soldiers began exhausting and tiring as they feel so thirsty and tired due to the hot climate. Pinkie and Fluttershy felt that as well.

"Wow... This is my first time to experience the jungle." Pinkie commented in surprise. She sighed heavily as she wiped her sweats off, "Wow... It's very hot! I guess Prime Minister wasn't kidding about the weather and this jungle. I almost felt tired and thirsty."

Veteran Shot panted, "I hate to admit but the lass's right. We need to rest. I'm too old to endure the heat. It pain my ass..."

"Ponies were too tired as well. We need some rest," Justice Tackle added.

Virtue Dragon took a glance at his soldiers as he was worried for them. He heard about the Southern Jungle and its story but never experienced it before. He needed his soldiers armed and ready for anything. He can't have them to be tired and get defeated immediately.

"There's a lot of shades here and some lake as well," Virtue Dragon said firmly and calmly, "We should rest here."

Dragonspear approached his emperor at once, "My lord, I must against it. It's best that we should keep moving to the open field."

Skysour nodded in agreement, "Dragonspear's right. Ape Nation will use the jungle as their advantage to defeat us. We must camp on the open space for rest and the attacks."

Virtue Dragon sighed in concern, "I don't like it. But I trust your judgment and experience. We must continue to find the open space for both rest and defense. Resume the advance."

Western Dragon Kingdom army moaned and groaned in upset. But they have no choice but to obey and follow due to Virtue Dragon being their only leader but their comrades. They continued traveling across the jungle in reaching the open space. As they continued traveling, both Pinkie and Fluttershy decided to ask their allies about the experience and history with Ape Nation. They want to know more about the Apes.

Fluttershy hummed in concern, "Um... Excuse me. I hope you don't mind us asking but may we know about Ape Nation?"

"Yeah... We wanna how you guys make friends with the monkeys. It sounded like they're very good friends to you so much," Pinkie said happily.

Virtue Dragon looked at both Prime Minister Skysour and Dragonspear for answers. They both looked at each other for the moment. They wondered if this is good idea or not to tell them about the history or not.

Skysour Intellect sighed, "Very well. We shall reveal the history behind our alliance. After the defeat and death of our emperor before reincarnated as Mystic Pony, our southern fortress almost conquered by the Southern Barbarians. Both me and Dragonspear led the force for the Southern Campaign to not only defeat but also capturing Barbarian King's ancestor - King Kutta the Great."

Dragonspear continued, "We fought against him for seven times as well as capturing and releasing him. We faced against him, his wife, his officers, his brutal army, his trickery, difficult terrains, poison swamps, his Shaman and wild animals and even General and his rattan armored soldiers."

"King Kutta the Great is very brave, persistent and loyal Barbarian King to his home but very stubborn to admit his defeat," Skysour Intellect continued, "We defeated and captured him for seven times. After the seventh but final battle, he finally submitted to us. We build our alliance."

Both Pinkie and Fluttershy were all shocked yet surprise of what they just learned.

"Wow... How long have you and monkeys been friends?" Pinkie asked in surprise.

Skysour sighed, "It lasted for nearly 40 years. But because of Western Dragon Kingdom has fallen, so as the alliance with both Water Tiger Kingdom and Ape Nation. After the long war and fall of kingdom-by-kingdom, we have returned and reestablished our kingdoms as the True Rulers of Ma. We even reestablished the alliance with Ape Nation. And it lasted for thousand years."

"And now, the Ape Nation attacked and invaded us because they accused us for their sacred artifact been stolen," Dragonspear said in concern and upset, "We could never do such a thing."

"Oh dear... This is terrible..." Fluttershy said in concern, "Who could do such a thing? Did anypny or monkey have against this much?"

"We wish we knew," Justice Tackle said in concern.

Veteran Shot sighed, "All we can do is find and capture that King Kutta."

"Indeed... We have to stop at once. We have to clear the misunderstanding," Skysour said firmly, "We need to talk with him."

Virtue Dragon nodded, "I agreed. We must keep moving now. We need to end this before more lives could be taken away."

"Lord Virtue, stay close to us," Rogue said firmly, "Father wouldn't want you to get hurt. You're too important for our kingdom to lose."

Sparkle nodded, "Rogue is right. We would be lost without you."

Virtue Dragon sighed in defeat, "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make you worried. I just want to end this conflict."

"We understand, my lord. But it's best that you should remain stay close to us but vigilant." Skysour said, "The Ape Nation will do whatever it takes to win the war and defeat you for reclaiming their stolen artifact."

Dragonspear nodded, "Indeed. Please, stay with us for your safety."

Virtue Dragon shook his head in upset yet nodded in agreement. He and his Western Dragon Kingdom continued marching across the depths of jungle. Fluttershy noticed it again as she shown her concern and pitiful looks for the Emperor of Western Ma. She too felt that way because she too wanted to end the conflict and clear the miscommunication.

As Western Dragon Kingdom continued marching across the depth of jungle, they stopped as they heard the branches snapped. They were armed with their weapons. Both Rogue and Sparkle stayed close to Virtue Dragon and Skysour Intellect while three Dragon Generals approached to the front as they were armed and readied. Fluttershy and Pinkie too were armed as well. The Apes are coming!

Before any of Western Dragon Army could do anything, a sudden struck on the Dragon Guard's back. An arrow has struck on his. His death alerted the rest. Some looked up and found Apes were on top of branches and trees while others found more standing in the mist, bushes and tree's trunks. The Apes are here!

The Ape Nation Soldiers screeched and roared wildly as they all charged straight at Western Dragon Kingdom from the mist or top of trees. The Mystic Pony armed with their weapons as they were ready to fight.

"Remember! We can't hurt them! We need to capture the leader alive to end it!" Virtue Dragon ordered firmly.

"Hurt them?! What about us?!" Pinkie asked in concern as she armed with her Party Canon. She giggled a bit, "Wow... That is so cliche for everyone not wanting to hurt some good or misunderstanding creatures."

"Save the jokes later. Here they come!" Justice Tackle exclaimed in concern.

Dragonspear turned to both Rogue and Sparkle, "Protect the Emperor! No matter what happens, don't let any monkeys near to him!"

"My Lord!" Rogue and Sparkle exclaimed fiercely.

As the Ape Nation Soldiers came close to the Western Dragon Kingdom, the monkeys attacked the ponies fiercely and wildly. The monkeys from branches and tree tops continued firing and launching their blackish bladed arrows and blackish painted stones in knocking and killing Mystic Ponies. Others attacked head on with their blackish bladed weapons in killing them. Western Dragon Kingdom fought back as they tried their best not killing them while knocking the Apes out, though some unintentionally and accidentally did it.

"What kind of weapon is that?! I thought Mystic Ponies are Immortals!" Pinkie exclaimed in concern.

Skysour groaned as he teleported from the multiple arrows and swinging swords, "They're Curse Crystal! It allow anyone to harm and kill anypony who is Immortal - Alicorn Ponies, Mystic Ponies or even Mystic Demons. If they touched your heart, then you're gone! Don't touch them!"

Dragonspear climbed down from his Dragon Ride as he swung his Dragoon Spear in knocking and beating the monkeys down while blocking, deflecting and dodging the attacks and blackish blade. Justice Tackle continued rode his Dragon Ride in charging and attacking the monkey while he swung them off by his Raider Spear and deflect the attacks. Veteran Shot dodged and avoided the attacks while accurately fired his arrows in wounded and knocked them out. Skysour Intellect teleported from the attacks while firing Wind Storm Blasts at the monkeys. Both Rogue and Sparkle swung their Broadsword and Sword at the monkeys as they defended Virtue Dragon from being attacked or kidnapped. Pinkie Pie fired her Party Canon in knocking the monkeys off the branches. Fluttershy helped defend Virtue Dragon with the help of her Animal Ruby Spirits - Bat, Elephant, Cheetah, Gorilla and Wasp.

As both sides continued battling with each other fiercely, King Kutta climbed from one tree's branch to another swiftly and accurately dodged the attacks. As he closed to the tree above Virtue Dragon and his bodyguards, he took the smoke bombs out as he dropped it on them. The bomb exploded and launched the foggy mist. Everyone coughed heavily. King Kutta roared wildly as he quickly jumped and dived down at once. His Chimpanzee and Gorilla Soldiers followed him as well. They then attacked the ponies hard and quickly.

As Fluttershy continued using her Bat Spirit in launching her Sonic Wave, her ears able to detect a feint noise of screaming and shouting in fear and pain. She turned and spotted monkeys' shadowy figure battling with the ponies. She gasped in shock. She quickly flew straight into the mist as she has to help her friends beating the monkeys back at once.

As Western Dragon Army and Ape Nation Soldiers continued battling with each other, the horn sounded loudly. Ape Nation screeched and roared wildly as they quickly turned and escaped the battlefield at once. After seeing the monkeys running away from the fight, Western Dragon Kingdom cheered wildly and happily as they won the battlefield.

"Glad that's over. Those Apes really likes to monkey around, don't you agree Fluttershy?" Pinkie asked happily. She heard no answers. She called and looked around as she only found the medic treated the soldiers' wounds and injuries. But it make her scared and worried, "Fluttershy, where are you?!"

"Has anyone seen our lord?!" Dragonspear asked in concern, "I can't find him!"

"He's not with us either," Veteran Shot said in concern.

Skysour hissed in concern, "We've been fooled and distracted! Our lord has been captured."

"Damn those monkeys!" Justice Tackle exclaimed in anger.

"Noooooooooooo!" Pinkie screamed in fear. She grabbed Skysour's robes as she screamed, "We've gotta do something! We've gotta save Fluttershy and Virtue Dragon now. There's no telling what those monkeys will do! They could eaten our friends alive!"

"Pinkie Pie! Monkeys don't eat meats," Dragonspear said in annoyance, "But she's right. We have to find them now."

Skysour nodded, "I agreed. And I know where they are. Move out!"

Skysour and his remaining army of Western Dragon Kingdom headed off at once. It took them about two to three hours in passing through the jungle. They reached to the edge where they spotted the large castle with four towers on the edges in Indian theme, along with the giant skull of monkey hung over the middle spiral tower-like.

They even spotted King Kutta and his Ape Nation were marching through from road into the castle. His monkeys cheered wildly and happily for their leader's triumph. He had captured Virtue Dragon - Emperor of Western Ma. But he wasn't alone. Rogue, Sparkle Shield, Fluttershy and 100 Soldiers were with him now.

Pinkie was about to move but stopped by Dragonspear.

"What are you doing?! We've gotta help them now!" Pinkie Pie exclaimed in concern.

Dragonspear nodded in understanding, "I understand but not today. We'll strike the Ape Nation by dawn where they're still asleep. No doubt they'll be cheering and celebrating for their victory."

"Yes... If we strike tonight during the celebration of victory, they'll strike us back." Skysour added, "It's best that we tired all of them down first before we strike."

Pinkie hissed before sighed in upset, "Okay... I just hope Fluttershy's okay. She's very sensitive and easy get bruised. I don't want her to get hurt. If that happens, I'm gonna make those monkeys sorry for messing with the wrong pony."





Within the ruined dungeon, King Kutta was glaring and watching Virtue Dragon and his soldiers being tortured and whipped by his persecutors. He wanted their spirits and resistance to be broken, so he can finally have the answers. Virtue Dragon and his soldiers were enduring the torture as long as they can despite feeling the pain on them. Fluttershy too suffered it as well.

As King Kutta gave the signal of stop, the persecutors stopped from whipping and torturing Virtue Dragon and his soldiers. King Kutta approached and glared at his prisoners.

"Well?" King Kutta demanded fiercely.

Virtue Dragon panted heavily, "We told you before. We didn't do it. We don't have your artifact!"

"Yeah! We're telling you the truth! We don't even know what the goddamn artifact is!" Rogue exclaimed in anger.

King Kutta growled and roared angrily at them, "You're still lying?! Damn it! How long are you gonna keep this up?! I won't tolerate this anymore!" He huffed angrily as he turned and exited the door. Before he left, he turned and glared at them, "If I don't get the answers by sunrise, I will kill you all!"

Fluttershy moaned as she took a glance at King Kutta, "Why are you so angry with us? We're telling you the truth. We don't even know what artifact you keep talking about..."

"Don't you dare lied to me! Your envoy have come to my kingdom in delivering the best weapons for defense. We were really appreciated," King Kutta said calmly yet upset. He growled, "Then, he demanded the return to him and his kingdom - our sacred artifact! I refused. And the next, it's gone! And I know who to blame!"

Sparkle gasped in concern, "No... You're not actually think that-?! We would never do such a thing! Honest! We didn't even send our envoy for delivering the gifts to you neither!"

King Kutta roared in anger, "Enough! I want the answers by sunrise! That's final!"

King Kutta exited before he slammed the door hard. The persecutors then dragged and moved Virtue Dragon and other prisoners to their cells. Virtue Dragon and his friends were locked up until sunrise. The securities often came to Virtue Dragon and his friends' cells for delivering the foods for the prisoners to eat or checked on the latter.

As almost everyone was sleeping during the night, some were up and wondered what happen next. Fluttershy looked through the cell's windows. Rogue was looking through the door's small window. Sparkle was looking after the Emperor of Western Ma who remained quiet while looking at his picture of whole family. Virtue Dragon sighed heavily.

Fluttershy noticed and heard the noise. She approached Virtue Dragon as she found him looking at the picture.

"You miss them, don't you?"

Virtue Dragon looked at Fluttershy who was worried for him. He sighed as he nodded before looked back at his picture, "Lots of times. Even though Blade and Warpath were just sworn brothers, but they're family too."

"I see..." Fluttershy nodded in understanding as she took a glance at the picture of her amulet. She sighed, "I missed my brother so much. I haven't seen him since I left home..."

"I understand, Fluttershy. And I'm pretty sure he missed you too. You're his sister and family."

"Yeah...  Um, may I know... Why did you do it? You could ask Skysour or Dragonspear handle it. You weren't part of it before. If you don't mind me asking that..."

"Because I feel responsible." Virtue Dragon said softly. Fluttershy looked concern as he continued, "Making alliance is not only about making friends, but also responsible and care for each other. Because I took things granted, my own allies turn on me because I did not honored my promise. At the end, I lost brothers and friends. I nearly lose my life when I started the war for vengeance."

"Oh my goodness. I knew feeling hate and anger is bad but... I'd never realize how dangerous it can be when you begin losing yourself."

"Yes... It was terrible and horrible. I don't want to go through that again. That's why I have to convince the King to drop it before he could not only hurt himself but his own monkeys."

"We have to stop them! He has to know that if he keeps doing this, he will hurt his own family and monkeys than himself!"

Rogue hissed, "How are we gonna do that? He won't even listen!"

"Still... We did found out one thing -" Sparkle Shield said in concern, "- Someone did try to frame us for stealing artifact. Someone used our name and gifts to make the King believed it was us did it."

"So if we did find him, we could clear this mess?"

"Possibly, yes. But problem is we're stuck here. And the monkeys won't listen to us or believe in us either."

"Not every monkey," The sweet and firm voice spoke. Everyone gasped as they turned and looked through the bars. They found Zhu Rong was standing and leaning against the walls. She smiled as she approached them, "I believe in you. And I will help you find this fraud."

Everyone was in shock and surprise of what they just heard. Zhu Rong believed in them?!

"Why?" Fluttershy asked in concern.

Zhu Rong turned and gave them a firm glare, "Because I want to end the war as well. And I don't want my family suffered as well."





On the next morning...

At the Ape Nation Kingdom, the monkeys were snoring and sleeping since the last night victory celebration party. They enjoyed the party very well. And they deserve it until...

SWOOP! The monkeys yelped in shock and surprise upon looking at some arrows struck on their houses's rooftops and walls. They even heard some battle cry from outside. They screeched in fear and worry. Their home is under attacked!

King Kutta emerged from his palace. He roared wildly and angrily as he took his Barbarian Claws. he headed to the front entrance at once. His Apes followed him at once while armed and wielding their bladed weapons in ready to fight. Once they're outside, they witnessed the large force of Western Dragon Army charging at them while some fired arrows, juggernauts, arbalests and catapults at them.

The leader of Ape Nation cried wildly and fiercely. He and his Ape Nation charged straight at them as well. Both Ape Nation and Western Dragon Army clashed and battled with each other fiercely and wildly.

Skysour stood at the top of hill in witnessing the battlefield. Shaman and his riders rode the elephants in charging and clashing against Justice Tackle and his Dragon Riders. Rattan Armored Soldiers charged to the front in blocking and deflecting the arrows off while attacking Dragonspear and the Western Dragon Guards. Ape Nations threw some of their Poison Bombs and fired their Arrows at their enemies. Veteran Shot and his soldiers fired their arrows and arsenal at the apes back. Pinkie Pie charged while firing her Party Canon in knocking her enemies down fiercely and wildly. King Kutta swung his Barbarian Claws in knocking his enemies off.

As both sides continued battling, both King Kutta and Pinkie Pie came across as they both glared at each other. King Kutta roared in anger as he charged straight at Pinkie Pie. He slammed his claws in slamming and striking her down but missed as she continued dodging and avoiding the attacks. And at the same time, she fired her Party Canon in knocking him out but missed or blocked as well. Both dodged and missed each other's attacks while continued attacking their enemies barely or luckily.

Both King Kutta slammed his claw at Pinkie but she responded it by firing her Party Canon. They both got clashed before pushed very far away. Both glared at each other for the moment.

"I want my friends back, you big bully!" Pinkie demanded fiercely.

King Kutta huffed, "And I want my artifact back! Or I will rip you apart!"

"MAKE ME!" Pinkie exclaimed.

Both King Kutta and Pinkie Pie charged straight at each other as they were about to unleash the bloody fight. Before anything could happen...

"STOP!" The sweet voice exclaimed. Everyone stopped as they looked behind and found Fluttershy and her friends coming out from the entrance. Fluttershy cried, "This has to stop now! No more fighting!"

"Fluttershy?" Pinkie asked in surprise.

Dragonspear gasped, "My lord! You're alive!"

"Everyone, stop fighting! This must be stop now!" Virtue Dragon exclaimed in concern, "We have clear the misunderstanding. Stop fighting!"

Fluttershy nodded, "Please... If you won't do it for yourself, then do it for your family. They have seen the anger and hate enough. Put the war aside and listen to the reason."

Everyone gasped in concern and surprise of what they just heard.

King Kutta growled in anger, "Enough! I won't listen to any of you until I get-!"

"Will ya shut up and listen?!" Zhu Rong called angrily. King Kutta yelped in concern as he kept quiet at once. She huffed, "Honestly... I don't even know why I bother. And they're right. This conflicts ends today because they are not responsible of the theft or even what happened two weeks ago."

Virtue Dragon nodded, "Yes. We'd never sent the envoy to deliver the gift or even ask for the gift returned. We would never do such a thing."

"Somepony is responsible of this mess," Fluttershy said in concern, "And he really wanted both sides be destroyed."

Pinkie Pie approached Fluttershy, "Who? Who could do such a thing?!"

"ME!"

Before anyone could do anything, everyone felt the powerful Dark Magic surge through the bodies like their bodies have been controlled. They have managed to looked up as they found a familiar character removed his cloak. He then approached to his enemies.

Virtue Dragon groaned, "Seekcurse?! That was you?!"

Seekcurse smirked as he held the golden monkey statue dressed in his magician robe while holding magic scroll. The statue glowed darkly. The Ape Nation gasped in shock and concern of what they just saw.

"Our sacred artifact - Spell Monkey Statue!" King Kutta exclaimed in shock while snarling at Seekcurse, "It was you?! You stole the artifact?! Why?!"

Seekcurse smirked as he took the pendant-like which six triangles within it. It has three apples on orange colored aura and sparkling stars Cutie Mark on lavender colored aura. Both Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie gasped in concern.

"Yes, it's true. I need it for good use. No mortal or immortal could resist that power," Seekcurse smirked, "Do you like it? It's called Pandora's Box. It allow me not only absorbed anything but magical powers like Twilight Sparkle and Applejack. Just before those girls destroyed the Emperor's resurrected body, I took some of them into mine for future use like today. And now you two are here, I can collect your powers now."

"All this... is to lure us here?!" Pinkie asked in concern.

Fluttershy grunted, "What are you up to?!"

Seekcurse smirked, "You will find out soon. Spell Monkey Statue - make these monkeys and weaklings down! Pandora's Box - Absorb those two girls' magical powers. Take them now! They're yours! For the Emperor and Qin Dynasty!"

Both Spell Monkey Statue and Pandora's Box glowed darkly on Seekcurse's back. The statue shot its greenish laser eyes upon both Western Dragon Kingdom and Ape Nation in making them stayed down for good. 

The box launched a powerful thundering lightning strikes on both Pinkie and Fluttershy fiercely and hard. The girls screamed in pain. Both the magical auras within the girls emerged, they all flew straight into the Pandora's Box! Seekcurse laughed evilly and darkly as he have new auras to collect now!

Everyone struggled in getting out of control from Spell Monkey Statue while witnessing Fluttershy and Pinkie tortured for their magical aura being absorbed into Pandora's Box. Is this the end?! Has Seekcurse won the fight?!

Virtue Dragon and King Kutta groaned and grunted angrily. They can't bear to see both Fluttershy and Pinkie to suffer by the power of Pandora's Box. The girls are not only their concerns but their nation and creatures. They have to end and stop this now!

Both Virtue Dragon and King Kutta groaned as they both struggled in getting up while resisting the control of Spell Monkey Statue. Seekcurse spotted it but chose to ignore it as he found it no threat against him. He continued watching everyone suffered and struggled in pain and despair. Nothing can escape him.

As soon as Virtue Dragon and King Kutta managed to got up, they turned and glared at Seekcurse and his weapons. They then marched towards him while struggled against the control of Spell Monkey Statue. As they almost reached to their targets, they charged in at once. Virtue Dragon screamed as he took his twin Sky Dragon Swords in blocking and deflecting the power in absorbing Fluttershy and Pinkie's aura. King Kutta jumped and smashed the Spell Monkey Statue to pieces. 

With a hard smash on statue, it exploded to pieces in knocking everyone and even Seekcurse off. Everything went blank...

Everyone got knocked out around the Monkey Castle. They all moaned and groaned in pain yet dizzy and exhaustion from the fight and spell control on them. Seekcurse was nowhere to be found...

"You may have won the battle, but you have not seen the last of me! I have what I need. Qin Dynasty will rise! And this world will belong to us! Mark my words!"





In the afternoon...

Both Ape Nation and Western Dragon Kingdom have gathered at the Throne Chamber where everyone were witnessing both Virtue Dragon and King Kutta were facing at each other. Their officers stood besides with their lords. Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie were there as well. Something is about to happen...

"After what happen today, do everyone agree that we should put the difference aside?" Fluttershy asked. Both Virtue Dragon and King Kutta nodded firmly. She smiled, "Good... I'm glad that you both agreed. But before we proceed to anything, do you have something to say?"

King Kutta sighed, "Virtue Dragon, I just want to say - I'm sorry for being a dumb monkey. I should have realized that Western Dragon Kingdom will never do such a thing to their own allies. I should have listen to reason than jump to conclusion."

"Indeed..." Virtue Dragon nodded, "But I also want to say I'm sorry for your artifact being destroyed. That's really important to the Ape Nation."

"Nah... That thing cause nothing but troubles," King Kutta as he held the Chinese Dragon Statue coiled around a craved stone - 'Honor till the End' in Chinese Characters. He smiled, "Now this is the artifact. My ancestor has kept it for a long time. I will do the same."

"Friends?"

"Friends."

Both Virtue Dragon and King Kutta shook each other's hoof and hand proudly and happily. The officers were happy to see it happened. Everyone cheered wildly and happily. The Alliance between Western Dragon Kingdom and Ape Nation have been restored. Both Pinkie and Fluttershy smiled happily to see it.

Pinkie sniffed, "I love the happy ending."

"Me too..." Fluttershy agreed. She turned to her flank as she found hers and Pinkie's glowed brightly. She smiled, "And we are successful too."

"Yeah. So stopping the war is the answers. Cool."

"Not only that, both Lord Virtue Dragon and King Kutta did something right. They put the important or sacred the items are, family and kingdom always comes first. That's what the rulers should do."

"True enough. Wanna party?"

"Certainly..."

Pinkie screamed wildly as she held the Party Canon up, "Party's On! Everyone, dance!"

BOOM! The party canon shot up to the midair in launching confetti, stringers and sprinkles down. Everyone in throne chamber danced and partied happily and wildly. They're having great time together now with each other's company!

END

Review & Suggest...

Main Casts:
Andrea Libman: Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie
Dave Mitchell: Virtue Dragon, Blade Dragoon, Various Western Dragon Soldiers
Terrence Stone: Dragonspear
Lex Lang: Skysour Intellect, Various Ape Nation Soldiers
Kirk Thornton: King Kutta, Various Western Dragon Soldiers
Brian Dobson: Seekcurse, Various Ape Nation Soldiers, Various Western Dragon Soldiers

Minor Casts:
David Beron: Justice Tackle
Alan Shearman: Veteran Shot
Steve Kramer: Warpath Temper
Bryce Papenbrook: Rogue
Wendee Lee: Sparkle Shield
Jessica Gee: Zhu Rong