//------------------------------// // episode 24: The Preliminaries. // Story: Dragonball MLP // by ultrapoknee //------------------------------// [Canterlot - E.A.T Colosseum - Third Person POV.] "I can hardly believe what I just saw..." Hope whispered as the final match of the junior division concluded. She, along with Sombra and Chrysalis, entered the tournament as spectators as a means to continue their surveillance. Sombra had the same disguise he wore at the gala and Chrysalis morphed into an earth pony mare. "She can fly without flapping her wings!?" "Have pegasi evolved during my time away? What sort of new magic is capable of this?" Sombra asked as he studied Scootaloo intently. "You have been glossing over the reports," Chrysalis snides. "This must be the work of Goku. If he can teach others to wield his powers than this will complicate things for us," "Perhaps..." Sombra said thoughtfully as an idea began to form in his head. "Or this could work in my favor," he mutters softly. "We will have to keep an eye on him, but why else are we here?" Chrysalis asked. Sombra smiled, wickedly at this. "Why, we're here recruitment. This tournament has many competitors. It is possible to sway them to our cause. Especially the ones that lose," The Colosseum was uproarious after the fantastic conclusion of the Junior Division. Celestia presented Scootaloo with a gold medal in honor of her victory. "TRULY A WELL EARNED AND WELL DESERVED VICTORY. CONGRATULATIONS ONCE AGAIN, SCOOTALOO. BUT THE DAY IS NOT OVER YET FIGHT FANS. NOW IS THE TIME TO MOVE ON TO THE ADULT DIVISION FOR EVEN MORE HEART POUNDING ACTION!!!" C.C. announced and the crowd went wild. "WILL ALL THE PARTICIPATES PLEASE REPORT TO THE CENTER OF THE COLOSSEUM," "I guess it's time for the main event, huh Scoots?" Rainbow asked as Scootaloo smiled and fluttered her wings. "It would appear so Rainbow Dash. I wish you good luck as you will no doubt need it," Celestia said as she spotted Goku and Spike heading to the arena. She teleported back up to the booth while the two pegasi went back to the bleachers. "SCOOTALOO, SCOOTALOO! COME SIT WITH US!" Pip called out as the rest of their class nodded feverishly in agreement. "Ha! Barely a champion for five minutes and you already have your fan club," Rainbow teased playfully. This realization caused Scootaloo to blush. "Well? Go on. You don't want to disappoint your fans. I have to head down to the center with the other Wonderbolts. Then maybe later, you and I can get a flying session in. Catch ya later, Scoots," Rainbow then flew off to join her other teammates. "Later sis," Scootaloo said as she flew over to Cheerilee's class. Scootaloo soon found herself swarmed by all fo her classmate as she took her seat in the audience. They began bombarding her with questions and pleas for learning how to fly. She honestly never had so much attention and praise before. Before she could be overwhelmed, the rest of the CMC and the Sugar Lumps joined in. "Alright, give her someplace," Diamond Tiara said. "Yeah, y'all can get your autograph's after the tournament," Applebloom said. The class was a bit depressed but respected their wish. Cheerilee chuckles at the scene before as her student sent more praises to Scootaloo. All save for one; Spoiled Brat. He just sat there in the back row, quietly fuming, while he glared daggers at Scootaloo. She let out a frustrated sigh and turn back to the entrance where Rotten Core was taken out. Both the medical ponies and the solar guard escorted him out. Cheerilee could only guess that it had something to do with the letter that Rotten read aloud. It was honestly one of the most despicable acts she had ever seen in her life. "If she wasn't able to fly than that news would have crushed her..." She thought to herself. The department of Pegasi studies was one of the most prestigious medical centers in Equestria. And any medical facility, they prided themselves in patient/doctor confidentiality. By reading that letter in a public setting, not only did Rotten Core violated Scootaloo's privacy, but broke several laws in the process. His parents would no doubt have to pay a hefty fine for such an offense. That is not counting the blatant illegal means of which he acquired the letter. It is likely that Rotten Core's family will have charges brought against them from Rainbow Dash. Such as trespassing and theft, which could result in him being sent to reform school for troubled foals up in Canterlot. "I believe you just may end getting your wish to return to Canterlot after all," "I still can't believe that jerk tried to hurt Scootaloo like that!" Spike snarls. "It just goes to show that he wasn't very confident in himself. Hopefully, he learns a thing a two from this," Goku said. "I doubt it. Ponies like Rotten wouldn't know what humility is if it bit them in the flanks," Spike quips. The duo arrived back at the arena floor to find it filled. "Wow, I don't remember these many fighters," "We were pretty distracted at the time. Do you recognize anyone?" Goku asks as Spike scans the crowd. His eyes soon fell on a familiar red earth pony stallion. "No way! it's Big Mac!" Spike said in disbelief as he ran over to him as Goku follows. "Hey, Big Mac," Big Mac turned around to Spike and Goku approaching him. "Howdy," "Hiya Big Mac. It's good to see you. Is everything alright at the farm," Goku asks. "Eeyup," Big Mac replied. "So are you here competing for a wish too?" Spike asks. "Eeyup," Big Mac said. "Well, best of luck then. I hope to see you in the finals," Goku said as he sent Big Mac a challenging smile. "Eeyup," Big Mac said as he sent one back. "I wonder who else is here," Spike said. A moment later, he felt a tap on his shoulder. He turns around to discover an unexpected familiar face. "E-ember!?!?" "Hello, again, Spike. It has been a while hasn't it," Ember said with an amused smile at Spike's reaction. She was wearing the same armor she wore at the gauntlet. "Sure has but why are you here? I doubt that you would need a wish since you're the Dragon Lord," Spike said. "You are correct. Originally, I was invited by Princess Twilight to spectate. Of course, once my father learned that the ponies were holding a tournament much like ours, he demanded that I take the best warriors we have to 'show the world the might of the dragons.' I swear he can be so thick scaled, but I must admit that I am looking forward to the battle," Ember said confidently. "That's great, but where are the other dragons?" Spike asked. "Hey, Spike isn't that Garble over there?" Goku pointed out as Ember sighed. Spike looked over the crowd to see Garble talking with a group of dragons. Garble turns around and notices Spike's little group. He smirks and walks over to them. "Well, well, if it isn't the shrimp, the ape, and the Dragon Lord," Garble said with a mock bow. "Why are you here, Garble? Even the Princesses of Equestria can't make you the Dragon Lord," Spike snarled out. "Ha! Like I need some namby-pamby pony to help with that. I was talking with some of the other competitors about the safety protocols in this dump. With these many fighters here, some of them are bound to get in a few 'accidents' if you know what I mean," Garble alluded maliciously. Although he did not outright say it, the intent was clear. "And what's that suppose to mean?" Spike challenged as he got in Garble's face. "Nothing at all. I just wanted to give you a heads up. Good luck shrimp," Garble sent him one last smirk before turning away. "Why is he here?" Spike asked Ember in a low tone. "I am afraid he left the dragon lands before I could select those who would join me. And since he has already registered, I cannot simply force him to leave," Ember explained. "No worries, Spike. You've come a long way. You can handle him easily," Goku reassures. Spike slammed his fist into palm as he adopted a fierce look of determination. "Count on it!" Ember looks genuinely surprised at Spike's new fierceness. She couldn't explain it, but she was picking up some power that was radiating off of him. Before she could inquire about his change, a new voice called out. "Hey Goku, Spike. Up here," The group looks up to see four pegasi in blue and yellow flight suits descending toward them. "Fancy meeting you steeds here," "Hey Rainbow and I believe you three were Spitfire, Sorin, and Fleetfoot," Goku said. "Well, that's a first. Who knew a noble would remember our names," Fleetfoot snarks. That remark earned the Wonderbolt a jab in the gut by Spitfire. "I think we can agree that Goku is not like most of the elites," Spitfire corrected. "Yeah, otherwise he wouldn't be standing here right now," Soarin added. "So what are you guys gonna wish for if you win?" Spike asked. "To have all the beds in the barracks replaced with the latest comfortable ones," Spitfire said as Spike looks at incredulously. "I know that look. We have tried many times to get this request done normally. But they have always been rebuffed. It's starting to hinder the teams' performance. This way we will have the assurance that our request will go through," "You all seem confident in your abilities. You will still have to best all these fighters to win," Ember reminded. "Psst. No offense to you all but the Wonderbolts are the best team of pegasi in Equestria. There's no way we'll lose," Rainbow said as the rest of her teammates nodded. "Allow me to give you a reality check," A new voice called out. Suddenly, four more pegasi land near the others. A turquoise pegasus mare with blond mane steps forward. "And just who are you?" Soarin asked as he narrows his eyes. "Hmmph, we're the Ultra Bolts. Equestria new elite flying squadron," The mare said. The Wonderbolts quickly looked them over to find that these ponies wore the same design as they did. Only the difference was the golden-crusted U on the suit and a color scheme of red and black. "That's impossible! There was no such meeting authorizing the formation of this group," Spitfire said with anger. "Yeah! Your little group is nothing but a bunch of posers!" Rainbow shouted as she got in the mare face. The mare smirks in response before pulling back her mask. "LIGHTING DUST!?!?" "Hello, Rainbow Crash. I see you made the Wonderbolts. That's good because now it will be all the sweeter when my team replaces them," Lighting Dust said. "You're dreaming if you think that you can write the Wonderbolts off," Rainbow Dash said. Lighting Dust's smug expression morphed into a scowl. "You have no right to talk about dreams when you took mine away!" She said through gritted teeth. "After we win, I'll wish for the Ultra bolts to become an official part of the E.U.P. and once we establish ourselves, we will make the Wonderbolts into an afterthought," "Seriously? Are you doing this for revenge? You're worse than Trixie. At least she realized her mistakes," Rainbow Dash said. "I had hoped your dismissal would help you mature a little. But I see you haven't learned anything," Spitfire said as she shook her head in disappointment. "The only thing anypony will learn is exactly how the second rate Wonderbolts truly are," And with that the Ultra bolts departure. "Ha Ha, things are certainly getting interesting," Goku said. "I couldn't agree more. This tournament is certainly not a bore," The group turned once again to find Zecora approaching from behind. She was wearing her traditional loin cloth that drapes in between her legs. She had a brown cloak that covered her upper body. On her back was a bow staff. "Hey, Zecora. So I guess you have a wish too," Goku said. "It is not a wish I seek but to push myself to my peak," Zecora said as took the bo staff from her back and gave it a little twirl before putting it back. "I guess you could say the same for us," Goku said. "By the way, Spike, what do you want to wish for?" "O-oh, um, reservations to the most prestigious restaurant in Canterlot," Spike said bashfully. "Huh, they must have good food if you want to go by yourself," Goku said. "Oh no, I, uh, want to take some pony," Spike said. He heard a huff from behind and turned to see Ember with a neutral expression. "What about you, Goku? what will you wish for?" "Oh, I have something in mind," Goku said as he glances up at the royals in the private booth. "I would not think too hard about your wish, Ambassador!" Another voice rang out, and for the fourth time today, the group is approached by another contestant. "King Iron Hoof. It's good to see you again," Goku greeted. The king stood clad in armor and wielded a giant ax. "Don't get so familiar with your enemy, Ambassador. After I claim victory here, I shall use my wish to take the lovely Princesses out on a date," Iron Hoof boosted. The group visibly cringe at the thought before Goku spoke up. "....Um, Which Princess?" "Why all of them, of course. It is important to exhaust every option before choosing a mate," Iron Hoof replied. "But Princess Cadence is already married, and she has a foal!" Rainbow said, totally shocked at the greedy minotaur king. "Bah, semantics. Besides, I merely wish to test the waters not jump straight into courtship. Although, the princess of love may reconsider her choice once she witnesses my battle prowess," Iron Hoof stated as many of the mares and Spike looked disgusted. "I offer you a fair warning, Ambassador. I am not the only one with an ax to grind against you..." Iron Hoof gestures to the crowd of fighters all around them. Many of them were members of the Royal guards, and they were shooting death glares directly at Goku. With no more to say, Iron Hoof walked off. "*Whistles* A lot of ponies sure have in for you, huh?" Soarin said, but to his surprise, Goku merely smiles. "I know, isn't it exciting!" Goku chirped. "ALRIGHT FIGHT FANS. THE TIME HAS COME FOR THE PRELIMINARIES OF THE ADULT DIVISION. PLEASE STANDBY AS THE RULES HAS SOME SLIGHT ALTERATIONS. COMPETITORS ARE ALLOWED TO USE WEAPONS AS LONG AS BOTH PARTIES AGREE. A BARRIER HAS BEEN SET UP AROUND THE ARENA SO THAT NO HARM MAY COME TO THE SPECTATORS. TRY TO REMEMBER THAT THIS IS FRIENDLY COMPETITIONS SO PLEASE DO NOT DISEMBOWEL EACH OTHER OK?" C.C. said as he snickers at his joke. However, no one else was laughing. "NOW THEN, WE SEEM TO HAVE WELL OVER 1,000 FIGHTERS PRESENT YET WE ONLY REQUIRE 20 FINALIST. SO WE WILL HOLD A MASSIVE ELIMINATION MATCH TO THIN OUT THE RANKS. FIGHTERS, ARE YOU READY?" "Hmm? Say Twily, why did you bring the scouter for?" Shining Armor asked. "Oh, I wanted to compare the strength's of the other fighters to Goku and Spike and see how they would fare. I also wanted to see how Spike progressed during his latest week of training," Twilight replied as she scanned over Spike. "Amazing...! His power level has tripled from last time," "Is that from the extra week or after their six-month training regiment?" Cadence pondered. "I'm afraid I didn't have any time to check thanks to the Gala preparations. At the very least, Spike has gotten considerably stronger," Twilight said. Back at the arena floor, Spike was having a miniature meltdown. "W-what?! An elimination match?!!" Spike yelled out as he turns to Goku. "What do we do?" "Relax, this means we can work together to reach the next round. Also, don't use ki-based attacks. We wanna save the good stuff for later," Goku said. "BEGIN!!!" C.C. shouted and just like that, the arena erupted into chaos. "LISTEN TO THE SYMPHONY OF BATTLE AS OUR COMPETITORS DUKE IT OUT IN THIS MASSIVE FREE FOR ALL. THE SOUND OF SWORDS CLANGING AGAINST ONE ANOTHER AND MAGIC SPELLS FLYING BACK AND FORTH IS MUSIC TO MY EARS!" Goku and Spike took their stances as many battles were taken place all around them. Pegasi and dragons littered the skies above, locked in aerial combat. On the ground, various races were struggling against one another."Do you think if we don't move then no pony will notice us--" "THERE HE IS!!" A voice rang out above the sound of fighting. Spike groaned as he and Goku were staring down a group stallion. "He's the one BlueBlood wanted us to take out!" The leader said as he and his gang barred their weapons upon them. Goku looks around in confusion before he pointed to himself. "Who me? Why would BlueBlood send guys after me?" He asked Spike. Spike didn't answer, but he figured it might have something to do with the Gala incident. "Ha! Easiest million bits we ever made. Charge! He can't take all of us!" The leader yelled as they all blitz toward the Saiyan and his dragon pupil. Goku leaps back as an earth pony stallion wielding a mace slams it down onto his position. Another earth pony tries to take advantage of Goku's blind spot and strike from his right side with his sword. But Goku saw this and ducked his head to avoid the attack. Spike was to Goku's left hand as he took on a unicorn that levitated multiple throwing knives. The unicorn hurled at Goku but Spike intercepted them by deflecting with his forearms. His thick scales made the task easy as the unicorn grew frustrated. A pegasus tried to use a long bow to snipe arrows from the skies. Sadly for the guard pony, the attempt misses as Goku and Spike dodged them without even looking. "WHAT AN ODD SIGHT HERE FOLKS. IT WOULD SEEM THAT A GROUP OF STALLIONS HAS BANDED TOGETHER TO TAKE THE NEWCOMER AND HIS DRAGON COMPANION. WILL THEY BE ABLE TO HOLD OUT?" C.C. broadcasted. Up in the noble reserved seating, BlueBlood was happily drinking a glass of wine as he watched the tournament unfold. "Those mercenaries are the best bits can buy. They should have no trouble dispatching the contemptible oaf. Behold the price you pay for embarrassing me," BlueBlood thought to himself. "Quite the Spectacle, wouldn't you say Prince BlueBlood?" A voice said, causing BlueBlood to turn to its source to reveal Fancypants and Fleur De Lis. "The Ambassador certainly isn't a stranger to combat," "I know dear. Son Goku making dodging those attacks look easy. I hope he wins," Fleur said as BlueBlood scoffs. "I wouldn't set your aspirations for the ape too high. By the looks of things, the ambassador will fall soon enough," BlueBlood said smugly. "Will he now? How about a wager. If the Ambassador wins the whole tournament, then you must pay for our dinner at the most expensive restaurant in Canterlot. However, should he fail at any time during the tournament then we shall do the same for you," FancyPants said. BlueBlood eyed the stallion next to him carefully. While Fancy was known to make bets such as these, he would generally prevail. But BlueBlood was confident in his investment and offered his hand. Fancy, in turn, shook it and the wager was in place. "I hope you don't mind me bringing along a few cohorts of mine when we go out to dine, FancyPants," BlueBlood said triumphantly. "Not at all old chap," FancyPants replied. Back in the arena, the pegasus was now on the ground with the unicorn as the double-teamed Spike. Goku found himself in a similar situation as both the earth ponies engaged him. They both shared a glance and nodded to each other. It was time to go on the offensive. The pegasus attempted to tackle Spike to the ground, but he sidestepped him and sent a well-placed chop right to the back of his neck. The pegasus fell to the ground and laid there unconscious. The unicorn tried to lunge forward with his knives held high, but Spike delivers a punch right into his gut. The unicorn clutches his stomach before passing out. Goku continued to dodge both of the earth ponies attacks with ease. The growing frustration caused his attackers to lose their coordination, and the mace-wielding stallion inadvertently swung too wide. His mace struck his partner in the face, thus knocking him out, and Goku capitalized. Before the stud could realize his blunder, Goku launched his knee right into the earth pony's face. He fell to the ground and lied there motionless. "Well, that was fun," Goku said. Spike nods, and the duo went back on guard. "AND IT LOOKS LIKE WE HAVE OUT FIRST KNOCKOUTS OF THIS ROUND. THESE TWO FIGHTERS CAN CERTAINLY HANDLE THEMSELVES," C.C. said. BlueBlood mouth fell agape at what he just witnessed. FancyPants said nothing but chuckles under his breath. Another fighter tried to attack Goku from behind but ended up with an elbow to the face for their troubles. Spike sent a roundhouse kick to a diamond dog that popped up from the ground and sent him spiraling into two more fighters that were rushing him from his left flank. Goku grabs a spear that was thrust at him by a Zebra. The zebra held on as Goku tosses both him and the spear over his head and into the ground. Goku and Spike regroup back to back as a new group of fighters made their approach, albeit, more hesitantly. "AMAZING FIGHT FANS. SO FAR, THIS DYNAMIC DUO HAS THWARTED EVERY ASSAULT AGAINST THEM. WE MAY BE LOOK AT OUR FIRST TWO FINALIST RIGHT HERE," C.C. stated. "LET'S SEE IF THIS NEW GROUP CAN PUT THE KAIBOSH ON THEIR MOMENTUM," This seemed to spur the reluctant group into action as they charged forth at the pair. However, before they moved 5 feet, a cloaked figure flips over their heads. The cloak fighter was none other than Zecora. She took the staff from her back and held it her palms while bending her knees slightly. The other soldiers visibly relaxed as they sized Zecora up; believing that she was no threat to them. This action proved to be a mistake. Faster than they could comprehend, Zecora dash toward them. She thrusts her staff into the gut of her first assailant, making him double over, then she followed up with a strike to the back of her opponent's neck. As the first fighter fell to the ground, Zecora moves to the second. She slams her staff into her enemies left knee, causing him to kneel on the ground. The other two in the group finally shook off their stupor and tried to retaliate. But Zecora vaults over the kneeling aggressor and plants a devastating kick into the other one. With a flick of the wrist, She twirls her staff right into the chin of the last attacker who was laid out in the dirt. Zecora then plants her pole into the ground and performs a split kick to her remaining hunched over foes. Her kick connects with their jaws, and they effectively passed out. Zecora looks over to Spike and Goku. The former stood there shocked while the latter was thoroughly impressed. "WHOEVER BELIEVED ZEBRAS WEREN'T LETHAL HAS NEVER MET THIS ONE. IN A BLINK OF AN EYE, SHE KNOCKS OUT ANOTHER GROUP OF FIGHTERS POISED TO ATTACK OUR DYNAMIC DUO. WILL SHE JOIN THEIR RANKS?" C.C. announced. "You two make quite the pair, but you should learn to share. Competing in a tournament won't be fun if I can fight no one," Zecora playfully chastised. "Sorry about that. You're welcome to join us if you like? A lot of these guys seem to be after me," Goku offers. Spike snaps out of his stupid and looks at Zecora in amazement. "Where did you learn to fight like that?" He asks in excitement. Zecora giggles at this. "Growing up in Zebrica was a bit rough, and there were many times where I had to get tough," Unbeknownst to Zecora, a fifth assailant from the group she put down was creeping up behind her. Fortunately, whatever plan that was in the works was ruined by a sharp right hook to the jaw by a big red fist. Zecora and the others turn around to find a body on the floor, and Big Mac was polishing his on shirt. "Nice shot Big Mac," Goku praises. "Thank you for your help in dealing that welp," Zecora said. "Eeyup," Big Mac said with pride. "Wanna join us so we can all make the finals together?" Spike asks. "Eeyup," Big Mac said. The four warriors then stood side by side and moved on to the other contestants. "AMAZING FOLKS! THE DYNAMIC DUO HAS JUST BECOME THE FANTASTIC FOUR? CAN ANYONE HOPE STAND UP AGAINST THEIR MIGHT? I KNOW I WOULDN'T WANT TO TRY MY LUCK AGAINST THEM," C.C. said as the battles raged on. "Halt!!!" A new voice yelled as Goku's group turned to face their latest threat. "The more I watch this Son Goku, the more I see that he presents no credible threat to us," Sombra dryly said as he rested his muzzle on his palm. "An exceptional fighter, yes, but hardly anything noteworthy." "If you're feeling so confident in your assessment, then why don't you go down there and finish him off right now," Chrysalis said with a sarcastic tone. Sombra's eyes narrowed at the changeling queen who was absentmindedly looking at her nails. "I don't suppose you have found any particular candidates for recruitment, Hope," Sombra asked. "The ones that already lost are of no use, but there are still several more contestants that show promise," Hope said as her eyes shifted to the battle in the skies. "Soarin, watch our left flank. Fleetfoot, Rainbow Dash, cover our haunches!" Spitfire orders. The Wonderbolts were currently flying in a diamond formation as multiple fights took place around them. "Solar guard! noon high!" Fleetfoot called out. Two Solar guard Pegasi dive bombed from above. "Scatter!" Spitfire ordered as the rest of the Wonderbolts broke apart. The solar guards missed their attack and left themselves open. "Fleetfoot, go for the joints!" Fleetfoot bolted toward one of the guards' wings, and with a well-placed chop, she disabled the guards' left side. He plummets to the guard while the second pegasi try to catch his partner. "Soarin, follow up. Rainbow, give them a soft landing," Rainbow and Soarin shot forth, speeding toward the descending solar guards, and acted out Spitfire's orders. Soarin struck two pressure points at the base of the guard's wings. This move had caused the pegasus wing to spring out and lock up. Rainbow quick grabs both pegasi by the legs before they could fall further. She then unceremoniously dropped them both on the ground on top of their heads, thus, knocking them out cold. "AWW Yeah, that's how we do it," Rainbow cheered as her team rejoins her. "Cut the back padding. We have a dragon incoming!" Spitfire stated. Sure enough, a big blue and green dragon came barreling toward the 4 Wonderbolts. "Rainbow Blitz Maneuver" The Wonderbolts reacted, and Rainbow went into action. She flew at the drake and stopped right in front of him. They sized each other up for a moment before Rainbow taunts him by sticking out her tongue out. Naturally, the dragons became furious with anger and tried to swipe at her. But Rainbow used her vastly superior speed to create a mini tornado around the drake. Insides the spiraling shifting winds, the Wonderbolts launches a series of coordinated strikes at their bulky adversary. Spitfire finished the dragon off slamming both her hooves into the drake underbelly. The dragon slams hard into the ground bellow and takes out more fighters in the process. "I was hoping for a challenge. Things are way too easy," Fleetfoot said. "Yeah, at this rate we'll--AARGH" Soarin sudden scream put everyone on alert as a red and black blur sped by them. A small gash rested on Soarin's should as his teammates go to tend to him. Spitfire turns to the assailant to see Lighting Dust sporting sharp razor knives resting on her primary feathers. "You like my new accessories?" Lighting Dust asked rhetorically. She flings the blood that stained her feathers away. "... Wing Blades!? Where did you get those? Only high ranking officials have access to the armory where they are stored!" Spitfire yelled. "I picked up a lot of things while traveling Equestria after you gave me the boot. You'd be surprised how much armaments slip through the black market. Ultra Bolts, FORM UP!" Lighting Dust ordered as the three male pegasi flew in behind her. Each of them equipped with their Wing Blades. "Wonderbolts, FALL IN!" Spitfire shouted as her team hovered behind her. "You ok Soarin?" She asked with concern. "It stings but I'm still airborne," Soarin said through a strained voice. "You posers are in for it now!" Rainbow Dash said. The two groups stared each other down before charging forward at full speed. "HALT!! For the honor that you have so rudely tarnished, we, the members of the royal guard shall best you here!" A unicorn solar pony announced. He was back up by many solar guards varying from the three tribes. Goku looked on in confusion while the rest of the group took on their respective stances. "I, Assured Victory, will lead these fine ponies to our greatest triumph and all will know the might of the Solar Guard!" He finished as his troops cheered. "Hey, hold on. When did I ruin your honor?" Goku asked. "The fact that you feign ignorance makes your offense so much worse," Assured said through gritted teeth. "Come to me, my brothers and sisters. FOR THE GLORY OF CELESTIA!!" He roared out as he and the rest of the guards charged toward Goku's group. "These guys sure are dramatic," Goku said as he got into his stance. The earth ponies went in first as they brought up their shield and spears. Goku and Spike brought their fist up and thrust them forward; creating a powerful shock wave. Their attack blew apart the shields and spears they wielded and scattered their bodies in the air. This result seemed to cause the guards to waver momentarily, but they were able to regroup. Goku didn't wait for them to mount an offensive and closed the distance quickly. The lead unicorn saw this and sent out orders. "Flanlax position!" Assured called out, and the guards huddled together, using their shields to form a dome, and sticking their spears through the holes. As an added measure, the shields gave off a luminous glow. "Good luck penetrating through this. That glow your seeing enhances the defense and durability of our shields," The unicorn said arrogantly. "I got this," Spike said as he bolted to the dome of shields and spears. He raised his fist high and slammed it into the buffers. The impact easy broke the enchantment and shattered most of their arsenal as well as sending the guards in the Flanlax skyward. The unicorn looks at Spike in disbelief while he looks back unimpressed. "I mean, come on. Why would you sit there and camp out like your enemy isn't gonna breakthrough?" He scolded. Assured Victory gritted his teeth at being mocked. "Flight squadron, arm your crossbows! Magi unit, unleash the might of our offensive spells. Earth battalion, surround them!" He ordered as the guards carried them out. However, Zecora and Big Mac moved to intercept them. Zecora used her staff to pole vault into a group of the earth ponies while Big Mac shoulder tackles the rest. "We will contend with the ones on the ground. But you must stop those arrows and spells before they come around," Zecora stated. "Eeyup," Big Mac said simply as another guard was at the business end of his fist. Goku gave them the thumbs up as he and Spike picked their targets. "I'll take the archer's, and you handle those unicorns," Goku said. "Right," Spike replied. Goku then shoots to the skies, shocking everyone in the process, and begins to pick off the pegasi one by one. "W-what!?!?!" Assured screamed out. He could only watch on in horror as Goku took out his air support with quick, precise blows. "LOOK AT THIS FOLKS! ARE MY EYES DECEIVING ME? OUR NEWCOMER HAS JUST SHOT OFF THE GROUND AND TOOK TO THE SKIES! HE'S ALREADY DISPATCHED MULTIPLE FOES IN RAPID SUCCESSION! PEGASI ARE DROPPING OUT THE SKY LEFT AND RIGHT! HOLD ON! NOW THAT IM GETTING A CLOSER LOOK AT HIM, HE APPEARS TO Be WEARING THE SAME CLOTHING AS THE JUNIOR DIVISION CHAMPION, SCOOTALOO. HIS DRAGON COMPANION ALSO HAS THE SAME OUTFIT AS WELL. COULD HE BE THEIR MENTOR?" C.C. asked. Those who were not aware Goku's abilities were bewildered and whispered amongst themselves. "Do you see that?" "T-that's impossible!!" "Is he the one who taught that filly to fly as he does?" Sombra watched on with great fascination at sight before him. He kept staring intently at Goku's back to see when his wings would reveal themselves, but they never did. Never in his entire existence would he possibly imagine a being with no horn or wings was capable of flight. Here he was, watching the impossible. "So there was some merit to your prowess..." he muttered. He was so engrossed with the spectacle before that he missed the smug satisfaction on Chrysalis and Hopes' face. Assured finally recomposes himself and turns his head to the rest of Goku's group. Zecora and Big Mac were still holding off the earth ponies while Spike was advancing toward them. "We will deal with the freak if nature later. For now, strike down his support. Magi unit! Rain your might upon them!!!" He ordered as the unicorns unleashed a volley of beam spells at Spike and the others. Spike dashed directly into the incoming projectiles. Once he was in range, he began to bat away the beams that threatened his teammates. He continues his advance while deflecting rays left and right. Spike couldn't help but feel pity for the guards before him. Not only were they outclassed but that also had a leader that was willing to fire at them to get ahead. "Poor guys, I guess I should make this quick," He said as he thrusts an open palm forward. He sent a shock wave of Ki out that discharged the rest of the offensive spells. He then flickers out of sight with rapid movement and throws a jab right into a unicorn stallion's face. One of the guards tried to drive a sword into his back, but Spike dodges to his right and drives his elbow into his assailant's head. Spike then flickers in and out of the crowd while striking each of the guards as he reappears. Panic began to creep into Assured beings as half of his forces had been taken out. "Shields!!!" He shouted as three unicorns summons a magic dome. Spike appears in front of the dome with a bemused expression. "Seriously? How will hiding in a shield do you any good? You won't beat Goku like that; let alone me," Spike chided "Silence! My tactics have never failed," Assured roars out as he charges his magic and nods to his fellow unicorns. They create a small hole in the for Assured to blast his beam spell at Spike who prompted tilted his head to the side to avoid it. "I guess there's a first time for everything. Nice aim by the way," Spike said nonchalantly. A wicked grin spread across the unicorn's face. "Thank you. I'm sure your Zebra friend will share your sentiments," Spike's eyes widened in horror as he turns back to see the beam making its way Zecora who was distracted with the earth ponies. Zecora had just taken down another solar guard by slamming her staff into his sternum. She took a brief respite to wipe the sweat from her brow. Big Mac had just finished introducing two guard ponies to each other by smashing their skulls together. He turned only in time to see a beam of magic on a collision course with his zebra teammate. "ZECORA, MOVE!!" He yelled in an attempt to warn her, but the attack was already upon her. Zecora eyes widened and slammed shut as she waited for the inevitable pain to take her. It never happened. Zecora felt a presence in front of her, and she opens her eyes to see a dragon donned in golden armor. "Ember!" Spike said excitedly. Ember stood in the pathway of the beam while wielding the bloodstone specter. The gem on top of it had absorbed the spell into it, thus, rendering the attack harmless. "WHAT'S THIS FOLK'S? ANOTHER COMPETITOR HAS COME TO THE AID OF ONE OF THE FANTASTIC FOUR MEMBERS. COULD WE BE WITNESSING THE FORMATION FOR THE FURIOUS FIVE!?!" C.C. said. Ember planted the specter in the ground while she placed her hand on her hip. "That was quite rude not to invite me to your little party, Spike. And here I thought we were friends," She said in mock anger. Spike chuckles at this. "We can party up now if you want, but I didn't know the specter could do that," "That is not all it can do..." Ember trailed off as she twirls the staff until the gem was facing the ground. She raised it high above her head before slamming it against the ground. "Secret Skill...." she whispers. "Earth battalion! Converge on the dragoness! Make her pay for her interference!" Assured ordered as the rest of the earth ponies rushed at Ember. "DRAGONS BELLOW!!!" Ember called out. A done of energy shot from the specter in every direction. Assured Victory's magic dome shattered it instantly. The backlash from the destroyed shield causes all the unicorns to fall unconscious. Fortunately, it would seem that Ember keyed it to attack those she deemed as a threat. Thus leaving Spike, Zecora, and Big Mac unscathed. "... Awesome...!" Spike said in awe. Ember straightens up and casts an amused smile at Spike's reaction. "Thank you, Spike. I must commemorate your newly found skills. You were very impressive," Ember said with a light tint on her cheek. Spike raised a brow at her trepidation as he and the rest of the group reconvenes. "Sorry I'm still getting used to the whole 'dragons giving compliments' deal," "It's ok. But how did the bloodstone specter do that?" Spike asked. Ember went on to explain the properties of her specter. However, Assured Victory was slowly making his way toward them. He was briefly knocked unconscious before he reawoke. Anger burned throughout his being as he saw that his fellow guards had lay defeated. He got up and carefully made his way to Spike's group. He broke out into a sprint once he was close enough. He summons his magic to form a sword construct and raised it high for once the last strike. Suddenly, an orange object came into his vision. Assured had no time to stop himself as he collides head first into the being. Thus, knocking himself out cold. "Hey everyone, how's it going?" Goku asked as he reappeared on the ground, having dealt with the remaining pegasi in the air. He felt an impact on his back and turned around to see a unicorn sprawl out on the ground. "Huh, I wonder who he is?" "Hey, Goku. We pretty much got everything covered here," Spike said as he glances at the downed unicorn. "I think that's Assured Victory," "You know, it's pretty hard to tell these guys apart when they all look the same," Goku said. "I guess his Assured Victory was met with utter defeat, hahaha," Spike joked. The others were left groaning at the terrible pun. "ANOTHER ASTONISHING VICTORY FOR THE FURIOUS FIVE. WE ARE NOW REACHING THE CLIMAX OF THE PRELIMINARIES AS THE NUMBER OF FIGHTER'S CONTINUES TO DWINDLE. BUT WAIT... WHAT'S THIS!? ONE OF THE WONDERBOLTS IS HEADING FOR THE GROUND?!!" C.C. stated. Goku and CO look up in time see Soarin crash land in front of them. He was covered head to toe in slash and was barely conscious. "Whoa! Soarin, are you ok!" Spike asked with concern. Soarin slowly points up in the Sky, and everyone follows the direction he's pointing in. They all were a preview to the sight of 3 of the remaining Wonderbolts struggling with four other pegasi. "We should do something. A rainbow might need us," "Alright then, let's go," Goku said as he and Spike took the skies. "WELL, THAT PRETTY CONFIRMS WHO IS THE MENTOR OF SCOOTALOO. BOTH THE NEWCOMER AND HIS DRAGON PUPIL HAVE TAKEN TO THE SKIES," C.C. said. While most of the crowd watches with bewilderment, Sombra clenched his teeth in a fury. "That Dragon....!" Sombra seethes. Rainbow found herself in an awkward position. She was left guarding both Spitfire and Fleetfoot, that latter of the two who had a sizable cut on her left wing, while she fended off the Ultra Bolts constant attacks. Spitfire had little choice but to hang on to Fleetfoot since she couldn't stay airborne. The Ultra Bolts were vicious as they took out Soarin first. His previous injury hindered him enough for Lighting Dust to take advantage. Now she had her team moving in and out to wear them down. "What's the matter Rainbow Crash? Having trouble keeping up," Lighting taunted. "You wish! I could keep this up all day," Rainbow snaps back. She quick throws a kick at the Ultra Bolt trying to attack from behind. Spitfire looks down to try and locate Soarin while Fleetfoot winces from the pain. "It's been fun watching your team squirm, but now I wanna watch you fall!" Lightning said as she tackles Rainbow downward, leaving Fleetfoot and Spitfire exposed. Right as the three stallions moved in, Goku and Spike grabs two of them by their wrists and throws them away. The third stallion saw this and backs off. Rainbow manages to kick Lighting Dust away from her and heads back to her team. Lighting fly's back to her as she studies the newcomers. "Thanks for the assist," Spitfire said gratefully. "No problem," Goku replies. "I don't know who you two freaks of nature are and I don't care. I've got a bone to pick with the loser bolts; now stand aside!" Lighting Dust demanded. As she went on her triad, Goku paid close attention to the blades on her wings. "So I take it your the ones responsible for injuring Soarin," Goku stated, his face was focus and calm. "Yeah, what of it?" Lighting said. "This is supposed to be a friendly competition. Those injuries are pretty serious. Not mention the fact that the Wonderbolts don't have wing blades to defend themselves properly," Spike said with no shortage of anger. "I fail to see how that's my problem. And I hate repeating myself. Ultra Bolts, take the dragon; leave the money to me!" Lighting ordered as the Ultra Bolts shot toward Spike and Goku. The three stallions instantly surrounded Spike and started spinning around him in a circle. Spike narrows his eyes as he spotted the flare from the wing blades as the studs circled him. They launched multiple strikes at every angle in an attempt to subdue the drake. However, to their bafflement, Spike was able to deflect each of their blows. His eyes followed their flight pattern, and he went to engage. Spike threw a sharp elbow at the stallion face to his left. Then, he launched a straight across the muzzle to the stallion by his right. Finally, he scored an up kick to the stud in front of him. All three Ultra Bolts were dispatched and fell to the ground. He turns back to the Wonderbolts who were stunned into silence. "Um...! What?" Spike asked. Meanwhile, Lightning Dust was growing more and more frustrated at every failed attack at the monkey before her. Goku was quick, too quick for a guy of his body frame to continually avoid her strikes. 'Why. Can't. I. Hit. Him!!!' She screamed internally. She didn't want to waste her time with the likes of him. Lighting manages to connect with a wild haymaker to Goku's left cheek. She smiled as she was finally able to make progress. But her smile quickly faltered as her punch did virtually no damage. Goku face remained unchanged as he places a palm on Lighting Dust's stomach. He then releases a small burst of Ki that sent the Ultra Bolt captain into a spin out. She was able to recover while nursing her stomach and glaring at Goku through a pained expression. "THIS HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH YOU!! GET OUT OF MY WAY!!!" Lighting Dust snaps. Goku said nothing as he prepared to end it. That is until he felt a hand his shoulder. "Sorry big guy, but she right. This fight is between the Wonderbolts and the Ultra Bolts," Rainbow said as she moves past Goku. "I get that you're angry for getting kicked out, but you brought on yourself. But if you really wanna settle things then let's do it in the next round, one on one," She said with steadfast determination. "Ha! Fine by me. Two Wonderbolts are already down. The other two will follow shortly," And with said Lighting Dust flew off. Rainbow rejoins the others as they descended to the ground. Spitfire sets Fleetfoot down with Soarin as she looks them over. "How's it looking boss mare?" Fleetfoot joked weakly. Soarin manages a pained chuckle. Spitfire chuckles remorsefully. "Sorry but both you are grounded," She said. Rainbow saw how extensive the damages were and turned to Goku. "Goku, do you have any of those beans?" She asks. Goku dug into his Gi to pull out a brown bag. Rainbow sighed in relief and turned back to Spitfire. "No worries Ma'am. My friend here has just the pick me up Soarin and Fleetfoot needs," Just before Goku could hand them over, a tremor rocks the Colosseum floor. "What was that?" Ember asks. "AMBASSADOR!!!" A powerful voice rang out, followed by another tremor. The group turns to the source of the sound to find a dust trail moving towards them. What was genuinely perplexing was when the group could make out bodies flung in all directions. The cloud of dust stops just short of our heroes as they waited. They watch the shifting of dirt particles quickly before a familiar minotaur burst through. "We meet again, Ambassador, but this time on the field of battle," Iron Hoof bellows. He reaches for the heavy weapon on his back and slowly draws. He grasps it in both hands as strange symbols appear on it. "I knew you would still be in the tournament. A warrior of caliber shall not fall to these peons. Satisfy my hunger for combat, Ambassador!" Goku smirks before he realizes that he still has to tend to the injured ponies behind him. "Just give me a sec to heal these guys, and we can get started," He said as he brought out the senzu beans. However, Iron Hoof was very impatient when he sets out on a course of action. His shadow towered of Goku while raising his ax high above his head. "I have waited long enough!" Iron Hoof roared. He brought his ax down hard on Goku's group. The impact caused a massive crater to form and drew up a dust cloud. Goku and company barely had time to react to the sudden attack but managed to evade. Spike held both Zecora and Big Mac in the air while Rainbow had Fleetfoot in her grasp. Ember hovered next to Spitfire who was carrying Soarin. The only one that was missing was Goku. "KING IRON HOOF IS WASTING LITTLE TIME WITH THE NEWCOMER. HE HAS BEEN AN ABSOLUTE FORCE TO BE RECKON WITH AS HE WIELDS HIS ENCHANTED AXE; SOUL CRUSHER. WITHOUT THEIR FEARLESS LEADER, CAN THE FURIOUS 5 TURNED 4 STOP HIM?" C.C. said as the crowd cheered. "Haha, you're very quick on your feet, Ambassador. I was certain that there was no time to dodge," Iron Hoof guffaws. Everyone followed his gaze across the Colosseum to spot Goku standing front another group of fights, completely unscathed. "Phew... That was a close one. I almost got cut in half!" Goku said in a slightly alarmed tone. "OUR NIMBLE HAS NARROWLY ESCAPE CERTAIN DOOM YET AGAIN. HOW WILL KING IRON HOOF RESPOND?" C.C. asks. Iron Hoof let out a snort as he started to paw at the ground. "Like this...!" He said as he broke into a sprint with his head lowered. Goku was mildly bewildered at how fast Iron Hoof closes the gap. "For a big guy, he sure is fast," Goku stated as he sidesteps the charge. Unfortunately, the fighters that were behind him took the full brunt of the blow, and Iron Hoof sent them scattering in all directions. Undeterred by his whiffed attack, Iron took his mighty ax in his left hand and swung to Goku who in turn jumps above it. Iron contorts his body into a spin to keep his momentum going and his weapon downward. The ax met the ground again, and it causes a small crevice to tear through the arena floor. Goku had managed to evade again, but the attack took out even more of the competition. Iron Hoof charges Goku still and sent a flurry of ax swings toward him. "LOOK AT THEM GO, FOLKS! IRON HOOF MAY NOT BE ABLE TO TAG OUR PLUCKY NEWCOMER BUT HE SURE ISN'T HAVING ANY TROUBLE HITTING THOSE CAUGHT IN THE CROSSFIRE. FOR THOSE OF YOU WONDERING, THE SOUL CRUSHER HAS SPECIAL ENCHANTMENTS THAT ALLOWS FOR AN AMPLIFIED SWING. THAT SAID, THERE WON'T BE MUCH OF A COLOSSEUM IF THIS KEEPS UP!" C.C. stated. 'He's right, I gotta put an end to this,' Goku thought. He stopped dodging and waited for Iron Hoof to bring his weapon down on him. Goku shot out his right hand and caught the ax in his palm. Iron Hoof went wide-eyed at this along with every spectator in the Colosseum. Goku smirks at his opponents confused reaction and cocks back his left fist. He stuck the side of soul crusher so hard that it shattered in several pieces. Iron Hoof stumbles back before he recovers. He shook off his disbelief and started to paw at the ground again. He had never met such an opponent before, and he was going to give everything in this fight. "I believe we have seen enough of your speed. Now show us your strength! If you truly lead the life of the warrior then face my attack head-on, Ambassador!" Iron Hoof challenged. He let out a roar as he barrels down on Goku. Goku stood firm as he took his stance and clenched his fist tightly. "THIS IS IT FIGHT FANS! THE KING AND THE NEWCOMER ARE PUTTING IT ALL ON THIS NEXT MOVE," C.C. said as the audience watched on with bated breath. Iron Hoof was running so hard that it tore the ground apart. As he neared, Goku brought his fist back slightly and, once he was in range, shot it forward. Goku's fist collided with Iron Hoof's forehead; producing the most massive dust cloud yet. *CRACK* A deafening check rang out that left the Colosseum speechless. The dust was carried off by the wind, and everyone gasps at the sight before them. Goku and Iron Hoof stood stock still with Goku's fist glued to Iron's head. A trail of destruction was left behind Iron Hoof's charge attack. However, what surprised everyone, even more, was the fact that Goku had not moved a single inch. A small blood trail drops from Iron Hoof's skull and over Goku's fist. Iron Hoof's pupils had faded out, and his body trembled slightly. "N-not bad, A-ambassador..." Those were the last words that left from Iron Hoof's mouth before his body collapses to the ground. Goku stood straight up as he gazes upon the fallen minotaur king. His expression was stoic until it morphed into a cheerful smile. "You were pretty good too. Let's do this again one day," Goku chirped.