A Journey Beyond Sanity

by Darkwing Dust

Chapter 211: The Prince of Family

Previously...

"Everypony in the school's lost their magic."

"And not just here; students have been getting letters from family members, it's happening all over Equestria from Las Pegasus to Manehatten. We can't even lift a wrench."

"I thought you knew; the Princess and the teachers went to Tartarus. Oh I sure hope they're doing okay."

"Oh, where are you going, your Majesty?"

"To start heading for Tartarus."

"I mean, have you seen the new rules Cozy added to the boards: Less class time, more home time, chocolate pudding for lunch every day!"

"Cozy Glow acting way too nice, not Sandbar nice!"

"Stardust, she used me to channel the magic of those historic relics into one, so it'd all be fired into Tartarus!"

"Use the ancient magic to drain away the current magic, and then use a talented unicorn as the basis to unify all the gathered magic and direct it all into the prison when fully charged."

"Hello, Prince Stardust Balance."

"Let's get this party on the road!"

---

It was like every nightmare I had long ago, rolled up into one...

Granted it was no Zagreus. But this creature was the cause of many recurring sweaty nights, only recent following the conflict against him four seasons ago.

Huh... Season four. Season eight. How fitting.

"We need to leave, now!" I could feel Starlight tug at my tail, but I was unresponsive, paralyzed from the memories of back then, spurred forth by the gargantuan monster grinning down with sharp teeth upon us. "Stardust, come on!"

"Oh, but golly, why leave so soon?" Cozy perked up in mock disappointment, underlaying ambitious glee. "The party's just starting after all!"

A party of pain and conquest, I could imagine. Spawned from the villain who has taken on the great form that was perhaps our most difficult battle back then, for the fate of Equestria and all its inhabitants. Starswirl only knows the outcome had we failed, had I not bought the girls time to regather the magic needed to stop this monster once and for all. But then it struck me, we had wom. Because despite the downhills, the seeming defeats, they preserved. We preserved, because we never gave up.

And I knew Twilight, if she was here now, would say those exact lines. Then I won't give up too, glaring up with fierce hazel eyes and remarking in scorn.

"It's often said children are underestimated, for their brilliant creative minds and ability to see things we as adults cannot." Finishing that with the callous observation. "You are certainly the black sheep, Cozy."

Tirek chuckled darkly, the mere voice alone rumbling the chamber. "I see your snark remains indomitable, little pony." The old centaur widening his muscular arms in emphasized victory, already assured in his mind. "I, Tirek, the true Lord of Magic, have returned to fulfill my destiny as the ultimate ruler of Equestria! Nothing will stop me this time!"

"Don't be so sure." Starlight spoke up then, while can be afraid at times, she would still speak boldly against opposition. Known from experience, as lilac eyes glared upwards to gleaming yellow. "Twilight and her friends have beaten you before, they can do it again!"

Another bout of sinister laughter, Tirek leering down with a gleaming in those monstrous orbs. "And how will they accomplish that, now that those little nuisances are trapped forever in the pits of Tartarus?"

"They'll find a way out." Starlight answered without skipping a beat, certain and self-assured. "If anyone can, it's them."

"How did you accomplish this?" I inquired then, more of demanded, gesturing to the black hole in-between his four hooves. "I thought Tartarus only had one means of escape?"

For a moment, Tirek looked contemplative, rubbing his long white goatee and regarding the equine duo below. As though debating to himself whether it was worth the time spouting such a monologue.

However, Cozy cut in, still trying to make herself relevant at this point. "Why not tell them? We've already won."

Right eye twitching, presumably from the fluttering of wings close to his ear, the centaur shrugged. "Oh why not? I could sate your curiosity before I deal with you pests for good." Too kind, Tirek. I subtle shifted myself more between them and my sister. "It was quite simple; there is ancient magic not even the Princesses could unravel. Those six trinkets now uselessly sprawled around us possessed Old Magic which had been slumbering for a thousand years. The Princess of Friendship was kind enough to have them regathered in this pitiful school of hers-"

"Twilight's school is not-!" My wing cut Starlight off, expectantly looking up to the centaur and offering briskly.

"Our apologies, continue."

Blinking, he obliged, helpfully so. "Very well. After they were regathered, I instructed my... Penpal."

Cozy merrily waving above his broad shoulder, and Tirek rolled those gold eyes.

"Quite. I instructed her in channelling these relics to reawaken the sleeping magic within, draining all the magic from the land as they were connected to the descendant magic used today. A focal point was necessary, however, as a conduit to bring all this magic together, and transfer it to my former prison below."

"So you used Starlight as a power conduit." It was amazing how much my limbs were shaking at this point. Not from fear, but rage and incredulity that my friend would be used this way. The pink unicorn didn't look too happy about it either, yet remained more composed than I was currently being.

The villain continued in callous disregard, the well-being of others a foreign concept to him. Scorpan was likely never an exception. "It is only natural a powerful unicorn would be under a Princess's tutelage. Everything has worked perfectly, all that was needed was time, and a means of getting those who have robbed me of my place out of the way for good!"

Nothing more needed to be expanded. With magic being drained, the next phase had been getting Twilight, Spike and the rest drawn into a place they could've found answers when none others could be uncovered. Because of this, they have taken Tirek's place in that Hell.

However. "If you got out twice now, Tirek, it's likely they'd find a means too."

But the Lord scoffed, waving off my assumption easily. "Magic is required to enter and exit Tartarus, and last I checked... They had none left. Oh well." That grin gleeful and cruel, crossing his arms. "That just leaves another obstacle to deal with."

Both Starlight and I immediately backed up against the closest wall, ready to fight or run whatever he tries next. Hazel glancing to lilac, both possessing mutual fear and anxiety... But also grim resolve.

If we fall here, at least we tried to protect everyone. Our friends, our loved ones, and the students in the school. Nothing could be worth sacrificing ourselves for.

Though that being said, I'll try to keep Starlight alive too.

"Yeah!" The filly pegasus energetic to seeing us getting smashed to pieces. Flattering. "Let's show them not to mess with us, and then everypony will be forced to be our friends and no one elses! Muahahahahahahaha- AH?!"

Well, couldn't say I didn't entirely see that coming. Tirek's strong red hand gripping around the frail form of the stunned filly, bewildered amber staring into cold yellow. "Who needs friends?" Tirek sneered, grinning dangerously. "When you have dominion? Goodbye 'penpal.'"

Those comprehending widening eyes only stretching the Lord's smirk, as Tirek stepped aside casually from the dark portal, and straight-up yeeted Cozy right through. Her screams only a milisecond before the centaur snapped his fingers, the portal shutting up afterwards, now clear the betrayed filly was trapped in Tartarus as well.

"You're heartless." Starlight growled, indignant despite Cozy's true nature, still a good pony at heart and empathetic to good or evil. Stamping a hoof as she called out hotly, "The only pony willing to try and be your friend and you... You tossed her like garbage! You are vile and cruel!"

"Ah, what I love to hear on my holiday cards." Tirek looked highly amused by Starlight's bluster, followed with a gleam in those eyes as those black curved horns illuminated-

Oh [BEEP]. "Starlight get back!"

A little late, as the centuar called out triumphantly and with satisfaction. "As I said, nopony will stop me now!" Emitting a powerful, straight orange blast of magic into the ceiling directly above us, and I moved, pushing Starlight and myself out of the way of some collapsing debris.

But Tirek accounted for that, firing off more magic above. All around us, it was raining concrete and stone, and having no magic, we huddled together, instinctively using hoofs and wings to block the incoming falling objects. Tirek's victorious laughter cut off from the sight of darkness.

---

I couldn't begin to describe how much I missed her...

While Sunset helped pull the Princess up, the latter found herself swarmed by chattering, ecstatic friends before another group hug was commenced. And I stayed stuck, rooted to the bottom of the steps in frozen shock and apprehension. I had this all planned out... And already it felt like everything was unraveling faster than I expected.

But who cared... She was here...

My Princess...

"I read there was an emergency, so I came as quickly as I could," The love of my life explained to the girls after the embraces, myself unable to see her expression. "What's the emergency, exactly?"

Applejack, glancing over, smirked with a wink. "A certain someone misses ya." And I gulped, everything freezing to a halt when Sunset simply smiled to Twilight's blatant confusion, wordlessly turning her around.

Purple met blue-green.

For what felt like eternity had passed, neither of us dared to move, our expressions more than stunned. Twilight's mouth was agape, purple sparkling eyes widened to impossible degrees. And I briefly noticed the necklace, the small silver crystal book with a star in the center hanging around her neck. She still wore it...

Did she ever take it off...?

"J...Jack...?"

Even all the way here, the faint sound of her beautiful voice reached my frozen ears, and I could only swallow an inaudible gulp. One small step forward from her. I had this all planned out, I would let her approach with a small, confident smirk of my own, addressing with a quiet teasing "My Princess" before she would hug me and potentially smack me-

"Jack...!"

Ah [BEEP] it!

My feet tore across the ground without a moment's hesitation, only taking a second or two before we found ourselves in each others arms. Without even thinking, feeling the warmth and comfort of her body once more, my arms spun her in the air, a blissful laugh and grin emerging on my face as her hair whipped in my field of vision. She's here! She's here!

She's here!

Calm the [BEEP] down, boy...

Ignoring Sombra's negativity, too focused on the mare before me, we didn't let go for a very long time. From the corner of my eye, the girls snickered and smiled brightly at the scene before them. And I barely heard myself whisper in pure bliss.

"My Princess..."

"My Warrior..."

To my slight discomfort, the hug departed, instead replaced then by more warm as a small purple delicate hand rose to grasped my cheek, purple eyes searching, more life returning to her eyes than the day I lost her... Or she lost me.

"It's you..." She said quietly, sounding both in disbelief and joy. "It's really you..."

I could say the same thing, my love... One hand of my own reached up to brush Twilight's cheek, grinning like the stupid idiot I always was. "Well... I did say it wouldn't make sense for two of me to exist, love..."

That was all the incentive needed. Without caring we were being watched, our lips met after so long of departure. Longing and love intertwined together to create a perfect harmony, a moment of pure, unadulterated happiness between a pony and human.

And my heart soared-

---

Blah!

Cough cough cough!

"Yona found ponies!" A rough feminine voice bellowed through the dust, soon being cleared on our states from the wings of griffon and hippgriff. That bleary state cleared, while I was hacking out a storm alongside Starlight, from the debris removed at the horns of the yak.

Almost a shame; that was a nice dream I was having. Our states helped pulled out from Sandbar and Ocellus, fresh air being inhaled into our lungs, warmed by the outside sun.

Outside... Sun... Oh.

Depressing didn't even begin to describe it. Twilight's hard work and accomplishment - a dream fulfilled - shattered under one day. The School of Friendship lied in ruins all around us, the desolete remains incited from the wrath of a power mad centaur. Concrete trapped in water, students left and right needing help, and despite the harsh reality caused by someone we thought we could trust, Starlight and I exchanged one glance, for the unicorn to take command immediately and order. "Get everypony out of the rubble!"

Cue the montage of pushing aside debris and pulling crying children out of the remains of the school. Even with no magic, we all had a quality the likes of Tirek or Glow could ever comprehend: Teamwork.

But damn, was the effort exhausting. I took some faint satisfaction, however, on seeing unicorns and pegasi finally having to do menial labour without flight or magic. Alicorn or not, I stll stood by the one motto: Earth Ponies for life!

With a combined grunt, Yona, Smoulder and myself pushed up a fallen wall that two twins were trapped beneath, the pair pulled out by some hooded newcomer with noticeable scales despite having four legs. After which, we released an exhaled relief as the wall collapsed from drop, my panting state turning towards the one who aided us.

"Thanks pal."

The hooded newcomer smiled. "No prob. Call me Sunray." Before the orange hybrid of dragon and pony parted, presumably off to lend help elsewhere.

...Alright. I turned to the others, sharing their own black smudges and weary conditions. "Is everyone accounted for?"

Sandbar nodded slowly, gazing around as if to check. "I think so..." Before turning to face the others. "What even happened down there? Why was Professor Starlight down there with you? Why was that... That... MONSTER back and destroyed the entire school?"

I winced, reading the fear in his tone and eyes. Of course, all the ponies would remember Tirek; his actions against Equestria before were not so many years ago. Starlight cleared her throat, volunteering to recount the events leading up to this, so all were on the same level.

When concluded, we were met with stunned silence and slack-jawed expression, not just from the Young Six but all students who gathered to hear this tale. Ocellus being the first to speak up, abject horror in her Changeling voice.

"I... I don't believe it..."

Smoulder, meanwhile, displayed that dragon passion. "I KNEW she couldn't be trusted!" With understandable incensed fury. "That pegasus was always too nice not to be suspicious!"

Inciting a deadpan from Gallus. "Weren't you advocating for Cozy right off the bat?"

"That... That's not the point!" The orange reptile tried to wave off that reminder not a few hours ago. Waving her arms in dramatic fashion. "Now we're without magic, without the Princess and the teachers, without anything! We're that thing's mercy... What was that crazy creature anyway?!"

"His laughter were kinda scary..." Silverstream started in dread, then immediate excitement. "But also cool!" None of us shared that enthusiasm. "What?"

Sighing, Starlight regarded all with lilac eyes, sad and wary. "His name is Tirek. Not too long ago, he drained all Equestrian magic from unicorns, pegasi and Earth Ponies alike. Because of that, he nearly destroyed all of Equestria."

"But Twilight and the others stopped him, in the end." I added in next, having been an eye witness to it... Mostly. Before I fell unconcious. "They defeated them by-"

"Using the six keys to open the chest the Tree of Harmony gave them, unlocking new powers from unfied friendship across Equestria!" Gallus blinked by the looks given to him, shrugging. "Finals are coming up, had to study."

Starlight exhaled. "But now, thanks to Cozy Glow, with Twilight and the others trapped in Tartarus, we don't have the same previleges they did in last defeating Tirek." Lilac orbs sweeping over the wide arrary of wide-eyed, justifiably terrified students, the hoplessness growing clearly more in their youthful, pained eyes.

There might as well be a knife stabbing through my chest. The worst part was, I couldn't entirely disagree with Starlight's assessment of the situation. Look, the sky was already becoming an orange-red; just as it had done last time Tirek attempted rule.

Only this time... That might become a reality... Tch.

"We can't give up." Sandbar stood his ground, defiance and bravery shining behind those light coloured orbs. Mouth set in firm resolve as he regarded us. "If that monster could be beaten before, he can be beaten again!"

"But how?" Student number four-four-eight-three called out, depserate and fearful by contrast.

The light white-coloured equine regarded both Starlight and I. "Counsellor, Prince, you said that Cozy channelled magic through those artifacts, right?"

Yeah but what does-?

Oh.

Ohh...

Hazel and lilac slowly looked to each other in dawning comprehension, following Sandbar's ingenious train of thought with nary of doubt.

"That could work..." Starlight remarked softly, before pointing out with remaining concern. "But the artifacts could be damaged from the collapse; we'd need magic to reactivate them."

"Oh! Oh. Yona knows, Yona knows!" The energetic yak raised her hoof, beaming wide with inspiration. She declared with outright vigour, "We use magic of friendship!"

"Magic of-" I cut myself, the lightbulb going off in my head. "Yes!" It's a bit of a stretch, but hey, what else have we got to lose? My gold hoof motioned to all around us. "And we'll need everyone's help to do this."

Varied looks were displayed towards one another, all making a single, unamious decision. For the good of their home - our home - and all loved ones, Equestria's children come together to make the magic happen.

Gallus said it for all in his confident smirk, "Just show us what to do, your Highness."

---

Everything was in place. The rubble of the chamber that released the centaur Lord cleared enough for this plan to go underway, all six of the unique different creatures standing in a hexagonal shape around myself, away ten feet apart each. I stood in the heart, ready to bear and hope this works.

For Twilight.

For Spike.

For Equestria.

From her spot in-between two of the old artifacts, staring my way, Starlight looked sombre, but hopeful. Offering in mostly jest, "If this doesn't work, what should I tell Twilight?"

To that, I gave a low smirk. "That I don't ever giving our pet owl a better name." The unicorn gave a hollow laugh at that, before turning solemn again, nodding to the others.

"Let's do this." Resigned but determined.

Sharing which, the pony looked to the dragon.

Who looked to the hippogriff.

Who looked to the griffon.

Who looked to the Changeling.

Who looked to the yak.

Who closed her eyes tightly, and the rest followed. The Young Six and all students behind them, beginning their focus, as Starlight began the encouragement. "Remember, the bonds of friendship are a power no evil can touch; magic pure, deep inside us. Focus, think about only your friends and what you'd do for them, and it'll reveal itself."

One by one, the artifacts began their tiny, faint hum of power. Small, but noticeable. It's working. It's working!

I braced myself, holding in a breath without realizing. This couldn't be any worse than the other times I've been hit a raw onslaught of magic; that's pretty much my life story by now. Hell, couldn't be worse than a hit on the noggin by a sledgehammer.

Colourful glows commenced emanating from the ancient items, noted strains on the expressions of the young six trying their absolute best. So much responsibility on ones so young, given no choice on the circumstances.

Feels really scummy; could compare ourselves to Celestia... Hah! Not in a billion-

A wide flash, causing my tense posture. Here we go!

The light quickly died down.

...

Nothing.

Several groans rung out, Smoulder exclaiming in heated frustration, "It's hopeless! We don't have the kind of magic these stupid relics need!"

Ocellus, however, remained more passive, despite weary. "Maybe we just need a bit more help, magic-wise. We've got the friendship, so-"

"But where we get more magic?!" Yona cried out with distraught, and before that reality could dampen the mood moreso, a voice perked out.

Chirpy and willing. "We can help out there!"

Wow... Talk about Kirin Ex Machima. Just pouring over the rubble surrounding us, as students parted to grant entryway, did the field of brown and white creatures reveal themselves, led by the cheerful, smiling Autumn Breeze, honey eyes shining with warm greeting towards them.

"Hey Stardust! Hey guys!"

"Autumn." I nodded back, perplexed. "How... Why are you here?" Not that it wasn't great to see her, but still. Not exactly the appropriate moment.

That grin widened. "Oh that's simple. When the sky started turning red, we got worried, so we came here figuring something was up." Huh, well that was a convenience. "You guys needed more magic, right?"

"Well yeah." Gallus nodded, frowning in befuddled curiosity and natural wariness as he regarded the newcomer and her posse. "But what can you do? All other magic's been drained from Equestria."

But Autumn smirked, looking just a tad smug. "Ah, but Kirin magic works differently. Just say the word!"

Back to positions, with Autumn opposite Starlight of the hexagon. Kirin now among ponies, dragons, Girffons, Hippogriffs, yaks, Changelings, Diamond Dogs. All gathered together for this final chance of preventing their shared home's doom. Magic existed within all beings, and when brought together against that which threatens their home, there was nothing they couldn't accomplish.

Alright... Let's get this done. With friendship at heart, we can all do this.

Focus on who we care for between us. Twilight, Spike, Starlight, Fluttershy, Rarity, Rainbow, Applejack, Pinkie, Sunset, Trixie, Cadence, SHining, Flurry, Starswirl, Sombra, Discord... All of my friends.

My family...

I didn't need to open my eyes, to feel the warm lights beginning to glow off the six artifacts that surrounded me, powered from Sandbar and friends each. Perhaps they may never be the same as Twilight and her best friends, but maybe, after all, they could be somewhat decent successors.

This is a day for miracles, didn't mean I was going to be positive about-

Suddenly, the warm light enveloped my being, and I grunted with effort, holding on for the ride. Six ancients powers, channelled from the bonds between close friends, with Starlight and Autumn unifying them to fire into my being. I could feel it... Their hopes, their dreams, their desires to see the others again.

Combined with mine...

Tirek doesn't stand a chance.

In an explosion of gold rays that pierced the skies, did I emeger from the yellow light, my every being radiant of the power granted from the lingering magic that remained in the artifacts. Reawakened once more. Awed and amzed expressions staring up to the golden alicorn hovering above them, for I am no longer Stardust. I am...

Super Stardust.

...Hyper Stardust.

Gary Stu Stardust!

...

Super Pony Stardust- Ah I'll work on it later.

"Go get 'im big bro!" Starlight's cheer incited equal clamors, and I grinned down. Won't let you down little sis.

In a great arrary of pure light, I zoomed off where I sensed the force of darkness originated from, my return to Balance's connection established. Moving faster than ever before, and you know what would be a good piece of theme music for this particular moment? Ah I'll let the audience decide.

Sonic turning Super in Heroes was my preference.

---

You seem to have achieved greater depths of magic than deemed possible.

Oh hey Starswirl, long time no see, assuming you came back from all that magic being poured into me.

And no kidding, this power felt incredible! Blazing across the darkened skies and giving them life again, soaring across the distlling winds and causes the gusts of life around on my pursuit towards the centaur, causing terror amok some western part of Equestria.

Felt like I drank a hundred times of caffine in one go, racing through the air like a gold shooting star. My entire being pumped with adrenlinine, mixed from pure anicent magic, and the magic of my friends. Past and present, mashed against a common foe. A foe just in sight.

For there, was Tirek, making himself at home atop a wide wide, blasting away the top of snow and rock with a blast of red power, dusting off what remains by a wave of his hand, as though making a throne for himself towering over the land. Totally oblivious to the yellow alicorn soaring for his back like a shooting arrow.

It is time to see what you have learned since your last confrontation. My old mentor stated with grim determination in that old spiritual voice. You were scarcely around equal to one another, but times have changed; the past makes way for the future.

Makings of a wry, resolved smirk crossed my bearded muzzle. Yeah, time to make up for lost time!

How satisfying to hear the stunned, loud pained cry from the monster as I slammed right into his muscular red back, planting Tirek face and chest first into the supposed mountain throne he was making. No longer, that is. Pushing myself off quickly, I zoomed back, using this temporary enhanced power to tightly grip the small tail at the end of the bottom horse body, teeth grit with effort.

Spinning the surprised centaur upwards, hurtling down right into the green and brown ground far below, prompting the large crater as the earth cracked from the sheer weight being mercilessly thrown upon it. Hey, I'm no longer an Earth Pony, I didn't have to feel bad for hurting the planet.

Too much.

Far be it of me to enjoy the pain of others. Starswirl remarked in my head as I stared down from my flight above, sounding surprisingly satisfied. But that was certainly appeasing to my old soul.

Pushing himself off the dirt crater with a cough of annoyance, baleful yellow eyes glared upwards, sharp teeth clenched hard as his expression blazed with fury, moreso from my hurmoured smug smirk. Rising high, Tirek commenced levitating from his spot, rising to the dark sky with eye level between centaur and pony.

"I should have known collapsing your Princess's precious school wouldn't have been enough." Before he made a crude, mocking smile, the villain purring, "But then again, I would still call that an accomplishment."

Wow, already seeking to [BEEP] me off? I shook my head. "You don't learn, do you Tirek?" My own tone scornful, but also pitying. That same noted pity drawing the grin off his face. "You think I'm mad for what you did? I'm furious."

[Insert King Bowser from Super Mario Galaxy]

No banter this time. No stalling for time; this ends, here and now. Rearing my front hoofs, charging gold energy as I chanelled the borrowed magic within me, ready to fight as Tirek was. Mano-a-mano.

"But that will be nothing, compared to Twilight's fury once she escapes."

Round two mother[BEEP]er! Two beings filled by hope and hate clashing like supernovas in the air, gold and red of hoof and fist impacting once, inducing a large shockwave that tore off the clouds that blocked the sunlight, giving the yellow orb a sneak peek of the mighty clash between two soulful titans. Never to be seen by witnesses, only heard.

That was fine, I wasn't in this for the glory. I couldn't care less if I was OP or considered meta; all that mattered was stopping Tirek, once and for all.

Between the clashes of blurs, I ducked beneath a broad swing, impacting the bottom left hoof into the torso of the centaur, followed with an uppercut to Tirek's chin. In retaliation, the recovering monster delivering a headbutt, slamming me flying fifteen feet away, and taking that chance, Tirek released a beam of red magic in my direction, and I barely side-dodged the powerful assault, fur from the underbelly singhed by the edge of the beam.

The mountain behind exploded, getting the treatment I would have. Huffing slightly in apprehension, I lunged, but Tirek flew backwards in preparation, beginning another charge of power. Oh yeah? Two could play this game, as I too channelled the necessary magic, but not from the alicorn horn.

Firing energy from the mouth was always more bad[BEEP].

Beams of crimson and gold clashed with ferocious resolve in the skies, equal in met power, and succumbing from the overwhelmed unity in a great, bright white explosion. I used this chance, but so did Tirek, our fist and hoof smashing together again in the centre of the brightness.

Rolling backwards midair, I suddenly brought my hoofs up, struggling against the locked fists that tried to smash me from above, with a grunt of effort. But Tirek had the upper edge, smashing down twice as hard with glowing limbs, causing my swift descent to the waiting ground, landing on all fours and leaving a small crater in the wake- Uh oh, leaping far back over the field by the base of the mountain, as the centuar had turned himself into a meteor to crash upon where I had formerly stood.

Straightening himself, gold met gold as eyes stared determinedly across the ruined landscape, Tirek smashing his two big palms together, before pulling back, demonstrationg the gathered red energy ball produced from such. My brows raised, what was he up to this time? My answer was soon receieved, when the centaur fired the ball of gathered strong energy, but not at me, to far above.

The red clouds clearing from a storm of rage unleashed: A meteor shower of fiery magic raining all over the ground, I had to move fast; dodging, ducking and jumping over, behind and beside the onslaught of power as the land was ravaged; devastated from the pure reckless dominance of the smug Tirek. Whom watched my display with some smug entertainment.

I was just thankful my cape hadn't been caught in the maelstrom, having removed it before the ritual had started back in Ponyville.

Breathing shallowly, reaching atop a small boulder now that the falling fireballs had ceased, I glared defiantly to the smirking Tirek, but instead of rising to the challenge, the escaped villain pointed at the ground below. Now what-?

The ground splintered and cracked, earth shifting around as though being torn on the inside, myself staggering and pushing off the rock into the air, staring with slackjawed horror by what was happening. Will this monster stoop to no level?

Lava spewed all around, magma rivers prompted from being unleashed below, freed by the maniacal centaur. Flood of the melting substance spreading over ground and trees, leaving only tiny spots of surviving ground remaining, leftover grass flicks catching small flames. This portion of a once beautiful land turned into its own mark of Tirek's might.

Seeing movement, I quickly lifted all four limbs as two fist crashed into my hooves, pushing me right into the mountain wall, crashed in there. Yep, that hurt. I grit my teeth hard, pushing back against the push from Tirek as best I could. Plan, needed a plan, and fast, what could-?

Ha!

That grinning look on Tirek's face morphed into a split-second of abject horror from the hard blast of golden power into his face, throwing him off and giving me air. The centaur sent flying from head and neck disappeared by the magic that briefly overcame him, Tirek off-course, smashing into the great splash of yellow and red magma, vanished from sight as the lava settled down.

Sliding down the base of the rocky substance, I reached the edge of the lava pool, the heat of it brushing my sweating gold fur, dampening dark brown locks. He couldn't really be dead; this universe would never allow-

Oh, right on cue; a tidal wave of the pool splashing as the monster rose from its depths, nary burns or scorch marks on his whole body. Rising above, Tirek stared down at me, but not with mockery or amusement this time.

But of deep-seated contempt.

Stay cautious. Yeah no need to tell me twice, bracing myself for whatever would come next in a stern frown.

The sky darkened, in recognition from the rougher anger in Tirek's deep tone. "I will not be defeated. Not by Scorpan, not by the Princess, not by you. I cannot. BE. DEFEATED!"

The earth shook as lava spouts burst, responding to that pure fury from the enraged centaur. Raising his hands together, Tirek then motioned downwards, causing a spiralling whirlpool before, clearing a hole surrounding by magma into the planet itself.

Presumably to the core itself.

Wind, lingering trees and rocks being sucked into the magical whirlpool forged by his will, the monster himself lowering in headfirst. Disappering from brief view.

...I'm gonna have to follow him in there, didn't I?

That appears to where your destiny heads for.

You know I never placed much faith in predetermined fate, but... If ends meet. Exhaling in resigned acceptance, recomposing and gathering what energy remained, I could feel the magic depleting; the power used starting to wane.

No matter what, this matters. Twilight and our family will get out of Tartarus, I'm just cleaning out the trash.

With a running start, I lunged into the whirlpool of lava under Equestria, following it down to where one of my most dangerous old adversaries awaited.

---

There my destiny hovered, focused in the heart of the storm.

Body poised for battle, the towering, merciless Tirek levitated in the centre of the swirling magma vortex, fists clenched with baleful glowing eyes. Posture told he was ready to end this as I was, flying over and pausing in a flutter ten feet from the monstrous centaur, staring upwards with resolve.

Heat touching my weary body, breaths subdued and quiet. All things considered, I expect the ponies to make a future movie of this, starring Pony Paul McGann as yours truly, with Tirek voiced by Pony Billy Zane. It'd be a great hit.

Deep voice echoed like a plane to a quiet night. "For a thousand years, I lingered in that realm; caged like an animal, all because the natives refuse to accept that I am their salvation for this world. They've grown too lazy; too complacent with using magic for their everyday lives." Lowering a fist slowly, Tirek spoke with more reserved conviction, "I see the truth, human: Magic is not a tool to be squandered to help with the laundry, or show off fancy flying tricks, but a weapon to cast wisdom and guidance to the weak. That is what those foolish alicorns and my unfauthful brother failed to realize."

Finishing with a simple, matter-of-fact measured resolve.

"No one will stop my rightful destiny."

If that was his belief, that will be his undoing. Shaking my head, that anger simmered to pity once again, I gave my own factual retort.

"You couldn't be more wrong, Tirek; magic isn't about power, or dominion." The makings of a nostalgic, tired smile. "Compassion. Love. Balance. That's what makes magic what it is. It's why my friends will always win, and why you will always lose."

Adjusting into a fighting posture, yellow wings flapping with readiness, I grinned. Voice strengthened with the righteous belief in those I cherished.

"For the ponies - and dragon - I love: this ends now Tirek!"

[Insert Final Bowser theme from Super Mario Galaxy 2]

Without a moment's hesitation, I lunged forward, immediately spinning around the broad punch of the monstrous villain, pressing two hoofs against the upper muscle, thrusting my kick directly into his face. Taking advantage of the stagger, clutching the long white thin beard, chucking the [BEEP] down below into the whirlpool's bottom side, resulting with the loud splash. My senses kicked in, picking up the dark movement behind the swirling magma.

On cue, Tirek flew out from the side, and I flew back to avoid horn-charge of the enemy, but raised my limbs from the backslap hitting me next. As I spun, recompsoing myself, the centaur charged up his stolen power, creating an entire wall of magical lines criss-crossing, sent my way.

Prompting my forced to lean through one of the holes of the moving attack, hissing from the low burns touching the tips of my furry form. Glaring directly ahead, being my turn, I extended both front limbs apart, and slammed them together, releasing the power of Balance in a shockwave of gold. Immediately, Tirek made his own orb shield around his being, protecting him as smoke was induced from the impact.

Taking that chance, I flew in a blur, punching and kicking the shield the centaur had encased himself with, refusing to give him a moment's recovery. Two mixed hoofs having the orange orb fly, smashing into the upper wall of the whirlpool.

A river of lava flew over my being like a heated rainbow, illuminating my sweating features. This was beginning to strain; the heat beneath the earth while combatting this monster. My body wasn't made to withstand so much magic, so that didn't help. But I wouldn't give up, not now.

Not ever.

Pushing himself out, Tirek unleahsed another beam of red, as I fired gold, with that being the current running theme; the pair of us flying around and through the underground, deeper into the lower levels of the planet. Charging and releasing beams from horns and mouths, often missing, some managing to grace each other's sides- Agh!

One swift descent from the damage to my left wing. Extending quickly as I could, enduring the pain using the partially scorched appendage, soaring above the the lava just nearly brushing my back, continuing the fall downwards, gazing up from my fall deeper to see the red and black form of Tirek in swift pursuit, seeing his opportunity and not wasting it. With his taken magic, the centaur summoned spouts from the heated whirlpool, dispatching them right after me.

A game of cat and mouse ensued, as I used the best of my instincts and disadvantage to get swerve and duck under the spouts in hot chase of my smaller body. Seeing two spouts about to take my sides, I quickly conjured a magical shield, it taking all the pain, just as I reached the bottom of the flowing pit.

Right onto a brown and black platform, surrounded by a waterfall of lava going further down into the core of the world. End of the line.

Lowering my shield. I panted heavily, feeling my mind start to go just a bit hazy, exhausting stricken over my features. Yeah... This was fun while it lasted, but I couldn't go on much longer. Swear to God, gonna pass out AGAIN like every battle against a big bad.

Except for Storm King, so there's always a once-in-a-lifetime.

The shadow of my adversary growing bigger from above, enveloping my state. Glaring up defiantly, I watched as Tirek slowly hovered down, landing with four loud stomps upon the ground before me, gleeful, malicious gold staring down at mine, the grin stretched on his face with great, desirable triumph. Already thinks he's won.

His mistake.

"It's over, Twilight Warrior."

Swaying his head back slightly, Tirek smirked.

"I'd call you a worthy opponent."

The two inward curved horns gathering power, the centaur finishing with wicked satisfaction.

"But I'd be giving you too much credit."

Heh... Sounds like something I'd say.

In that instance, Tirek unleashed all he had in his stolen magic, and I used what remaining power was in my borrowed magic. The widest, overwhelming red beam crashing against my gold, enforced shield, feeling the ground beneath me crack under pressure, hooves digging in as I struggled to keep the raw power of the villain at bay.

For Twilight. For Spike. For everyone!

What felt like eternity, before the magic finally died down, and I practically collapsed on all four legs, breathing with weighted tiredness, but still glaring up at the annoyed, exasperated centaur, whom now lifted a one of his own black feet. Oh great, he's going to stomp me to death now...? What a fun way to go.

I'll make it as painful as possible with my horn, at least-

Something new happened, as both of felt a sudden chill in the wind, in the middle of a lava circle. What now?

"W-What?" Yet I wasn't affected by... Anything, than feeling the magic borrowed starting to leave my body, but it wasn't just happening to me. Tirek too, encased with a pink glow, staring down at his hands with wide-eyed disbelief. "No! NO!"

His form reducing, the bright stream of magical vapour going with mine to the upper crusts of the earth. Falling back into that tiny, frail and pathetic version he was to rightfully be, shock and disbelief, followed with righteous indignation shortly after, becoming just about my size in his state of magical reduction.

Something told me... A certain lavender alicorn and friends had something to do with this.

With the magic controlling it gone, the lava began pouring more wildly, impacting the edges of the small arena and getting closer, but I was too tired to even move, just more content that Tirek was, once again, denied from his attempt of conquest. Both os us down here, about to be engulfed by the 'blood' of the planet.

With a final breath of acknowledged victory while Tirek screams and rants in the midst of a magma storm, mind cast on the image of a smiling Twilight, I closed my eyes.

---

"Twilight..." What could I say to that? But just like with this amazing pony, my own emotions poured out in truth. "The feeling is mutual. All of that... I'm just sorry I constantly took your own feelings, and the rest of our friends for that matter, for granted because I kept on presuming I was doing the right thing, in the end... You have every right to judge me for my grave errors."

My head bowed, but the Princess would have none of it, soon cupping my bearded cheek so our eyes could meet again, much closer to one another than had been in months. And my aching heart leaned forward by the close, affectionately contact I desperately missed. That we both missed, judging from the sparkling orbs and blissfully amused smile.

"I think I've done enough of that for a lifetime. All I want now, Jack, is for us to finally forgive and forget, and stop dwelling on what kept bringing our closeness to a halt multiple times... All I want, Jack, is your love and consideration..."

Suppose we still had a lot to learn about each other... You know what? I wouldn't even complain for that.

"And you have that." I answered back in a fierce whisper, contrasting her soft own, noses all too close to touching one another, brushing. "I'm only upset it took your childhood friends and Celestia - of all ponies - to have me realize why precisely you would ever make those errors."

Ignoring the jab, or not even processing it, towards her former mentor, Twilight chuckled angelically, music to my ears from this proximity. "And it took consulting my friends... And even your other self in Sunset's world, watching him interact with that other me, to remind me why you are my special somepony..."

How... How was it possible, for someone such as yourself to exist, my love...?

As if hearing that, most probably, Twilight looked down with nervous hope, and this time, I cupped her soft, beautiful cheek, having our gazes meet once more, never looking away. Now was the time.

"I guess we're both just massive idiots then."

"Hmm, finally, something we can agree on. And it only took Starlight to help me realize that."

"Heh, Sunset for me."

"How about that?" Twilight gently mused, her gorgeous lavender hoof stroking my leaning face with a wider grin. "The students surpassing their teachers."

Laughter followed that, small but filled with content. The remnants of our past grievances, at last, disappearing. Yes, Twilight made a mistake, almost dooming Equestria... Twice... But be fair, Jack, how many times have you almost caused worldwide catastrophe as well? Sombra? Zagreus? It's as though Balance itself was pointing that we're both the same cut from the cloth, just as equally capable of making various mistakes over and over again. Perhaps that's why we were brought to Flanktopia; the reminder that, take away the obvious, and everyone can be more alike than we realize. Twilight, intelligent and eager to learn as always, likely reached that same conclusion, perhaps when she conversed with this town's leaders-

The sound of large bells ringing. Echoing across the towns and fields. From the city itself, louder noises of celebrating a wondrous holiday followed suit, but neither of us took our eyes from one another. Bells deafening by comparison of the noise speaking through Twilight's gentle, but lightly flushed eyes, both of us unable to look away, grinning under this breautiful setting.

"I guess midnight struck... Happy Hearth's Warming, Twilight."

"Hmm... Merry Christmas, Jack."

---

"He's waking up!"

Ugh... Too tired... Need more sleep...

"Nope, I think he's headin' back to sleep."

"Allow me."

SPLASH.

Oh God- Bleh! Jesus Christ! Quickly sitting up, spitting out the bucket water that had accompanied the wet fishes slapping over my sat position, rubbing my tongue to get rid of the salty taste. Didn't help much, Christ. Hazel annoyed eyes glaring up to the draconequus responsible.

Smirking, Discord vanished the bucket, satisfied as he looked over to the others. "He does love tuna."

"Dad!" Oof! A small purple and green blur impacting my chest, and after a moment, I heartily recovered it, the reality sinking in as my brain recovered.

I'm alive. I survived.

When Spike pulled back from the joyful embrace, my adopted son stepped back, allowing a purple blur to hit me next, and I was more ready, grinning wide from the familiar beauty and warmth that made physical contact with me, exhaling softly in relief. Okay, yeah, this was real.

Pulling back, violet met hazel, Twilight giving an exasperated, if humoured smile. "I can't leave alone for a day without getting yourself in danger."

"Says you." Came my loving quip, smiling justr as wide as our muzzles rubbed together, just enjoying our presence after everything's that happened today. Speaking of which: "I knew you'd get out of Tartarus somehow. You girls always achieve miracles."

"Ahem?"

Blinking, I smirked to the arms-crossed dragon, ruffling his head scales for good fond measure, just missing the kid. "You too Spike." Satisfied, the young dragon and my beloved helped me get up proper, finally taking in my surroundings. Our friends, all looking safe and unharmed.

Before the ruins of the school... Ah.

A small glance to Twilight, who, sensing my concern, sighed softly, looking up to the the remains of her legacy before shaking her head. Sadness replaced by resigned acceptance. "It can always be repaired." The alicorn assured with a small smile, violet orbs telling me not to worry about her. "Everypony is safe and accounted for, Equestria is saved and all magic has returned. That's what matters."

Fair enough, which begs an entire heap of questions. Starting off with, "What happened? Tirek suddenly lost magic the same time I did." Assuming he was still trapped beneath the earth, not that I cared much.

It was a relief now; perhaps a more worthwhile fate for the powerless centaur to not escape anytime soon.

Applejack spoke up then, sounding both relieved and amused as she stood by her younger sibling, "That was us sugarcube, with a little extra help."

Two guard ponies, there accompanied with Celestia and Luna - a surprise to be sure - parted to expose the young pegasus they kept supervised, immediately inciting my scowl. Ah... Naturally. Cozy Glow, looking quite chatised and apprehensive, no longer with the faux posture of overly friendly.

Still can't believe Hasbro did that... Though that's been often said about a lot decisions they've made. Cough, Equestria Girls, cough.

"After Tirek betrayed her, Cozy was just as trapped in Tartarus as we were." Rarity supplied, ocean-coloured eyes regarding the flinched filly in measured observation. "Unwilling to endure an eternity with us, she happily aided in our escape, and the return of magic in Equestria."

"It was simplicity itself." Luna perked up, sounding quite enthused; probably from her own returned power of making her hair flow. "As the artifacts could give others magic, so too could it take magic. With everyone's help, Twilight and her friends -" Exchanging a warm glance with Celestia. "- Channelled the relics and pulled off the unified power from Tirek and yourself, returning all the stolen magic across Equestria. Every creature now has their powers returned."

Autumn cleared her throat, stating sheepishly, "Except us Kirins; we never had our magic taken from us." Her kind nodding with agreement. Ha.

Yona added to that merrily, "Yaks have no need of magic! Yaks strong!"

Gallus rolled his eyes, but the yellow beak displayed a small endeared smirk. "Yeah, same goes for griffins."

Twilight, however, had more to say on the subject. "All creatures are magical in their own way; we all share the magic of friendship, and because of that, we saved Equestria from Tirek once again together." Beaming in pride towards all creatures that came together, as though a personal goal had been achieved. Likely has. "Equestria thanks you all."

Sounded like something Celestia would say, by the heart was there. I still had one question. "How was I saved?"

A poof of smoke, Discord suddenly transforming into a superhero, cape and all, posing in that ever endearing exaggeration. His voice suddenly ten times pitched, "That would be thanks to Super Discord; Champion of Chaos! Ruler of Donuts! Opposer of all things Light and Dull!" Prompting laughter from all around, myself included. Alright, that answered that.

"So." Rainbow moved on, clearly wanting to bring up another subject, falpping on two wings as though her life depended on it. "We saved Equestria - again - from that crazy centaur - again - just leaving onnnne loose end."

Motioning to the shorter pegasus flanked by armoured pegasi.

"What do we do with her?"

Now that WAS the question. Looks were shared about, considering the options in silent communication. Personally, I say a good spanking and being shipped off to disciplinray school.

But Celestia had worse ideas, as always. "Considering her crimes, it's only natural for Cozy Glow to replace Tirek's confinement in Tartarus-"

"Nope. No no no no no no no no no no!" Stepping in before anyone else would even contemplate that mad idea, approaching forward with a defiant expression. "You wanna condemn a child to Hell? Have you learned NOTHING, Celestia?"

"It does sound extreme." Fluttershy reinforced from the side, rightfully possessing reservations over this judgment too.

Luna stepped in, defending her sister's ridiculous proposal. "She almost spelled doom for all of Equestria-"

"Nightmare Moon." I started dryly, having none of that nonsense. "Chrysalis, Sombra, Sunset, the sirens, Starlight." Nudging my head in the unicorn's treatment. "Who's arguably done much worse, yet she was never punished by being sent to Pony Hell."

"Aheh... Yeah." Starlight muttered sheepishly, not wanting to be the centre of attention for those past reminders.

"Such actions aiding Tirek cannot be overlooked, Stardust. We-" But surprisingly, it wasn't me who interrupted the white alicorn.

For Twilight stepped by my side, gazing up to her old mentor with her own defiance, heart set in resolve. "With all due respect, Princess Celestia, I side with my husband-to-be in this matter." I could practically hear the 'For once' in that statement. Betrayed, hurt yet compassionate eyes regarded the stunned little pegasus, watching us in disbelief. "You're right, what Cozy did - betraying us and everything we stood for for her own selfish perspective on friendship - can't be easily forgiven." Before violet eyes swept to everyone, Twilight finishing firmly, "But we have to forgive regardless."

"Part of friendship is forgiving others." Sandbar pitched in helpfully, evidently recalling from both his studies at this school, and hanging out with his varied unique friends. Grinning to those in question with bright affection. "We often bicker and fight, but we never let it get the better of us. I know that's not a perfect example, but..." Those sea-green eyes looked over to Cozy, nodding in resolve. "I firmly believe she deserves another chance, after whatever punishment you think for her, anyway."

"Same here." Gallus agrees with a short nod, shockingly supportive. The others echoed their best pony friend's words.

"Yona agrees!"

"Absolutely!"

"Us Changelings were given a chance after all we did, why not Cozy too?"

"Dragons aren't usually forgiving, but... Eh, that pony softness has gotten to me; I say give her another chance."

"Hippogriffs never hold a grudge, ask Twilight!" HAH! I laughed at that last one, to Twilight's flustered annoyance, clearing her throat.

"The point being..." Recovering to give the traitor a small, reassuring smile. "Cozy misunderstood what having a friend really means, which I am partially blamed for for now teaching her correctly. Thank you, Cozy, for helping me realize that."

"I... Uh." Look at that, the energetic filly was at a loss for words. Rainbow, Starlight and I exchanged knowing smirks.

A certain farmer Earth Pony spoke up, "We still gotta think up a suitable punishment, though. If not Tartarus, where should she go?"

"Oh! Oh! I know!" Pinkie volunteered, gleefully hopping up and down on the spot. "My family's rock farm! They know how to set a pony straight!" That bright outlook was a far contrast to the dawning horror on Cozy's youthful face. Heh, it did sound tempting.

But nowhere near as tempting following the low smirk on Starlight's thoughtful features. "I have a better idea..."

---

"You know, maybe in future, we should have a full record of student's backgrounds before letting them in the school."

Huffing to that, Twilight graced me a bemused grin. "Easier said than done, Jack. It'd take a long while considering the different cultures blended into the school." Which was being properly repaired as we spoke, with Cozy aiding in its reconstruction.

Under the supervision of her new mentor: Sunburst.

Credit where it's due, Starlight can be quite crafty with creative punishments. She must know from experience.

"So." Bringing up next, as we strolled up the sunset hill alone, having left everyone else to restore the School of Friendship, since I wanted to lift Twilight's spirits after all she's been through today. "When do I expect to be lectured for taking on Tirek alone?"

Pretending to think about, the beautiful Princess tilted her head side to side, before throwing me a sly, weary smirk. "After I've seen what you urgently dragged me away from overseeing reconstruction of the school, then I'll have you confined to our room until the end of next semester."

"Ah fair enough-" Stopping myself, swallowing that last sentence she casually remarked. "'Our' room?"

Twilight blinked. "Well we're gonna be married right?" That light blush of adorable embarrassment even bringing it up, prompting my affectionate smirk before she hastily added, "Naturally we'll have to start sharing a room... Am I going too fast? I'm not exactly sure when it's appropriate to live in the same room together before or after the wedding-"

"It's fine either way you decide, love." I calmly stopped her lovely rambling, kindly brushing her side with my returned blue cape, sighing softly. "I'm just glad you're still considering marriage even after what I did yesterday."

To that, the alicorn snorted with humoured disbelief. "After everything else you've pulled since we first met, dear? Throwing yourself into a whirlpool of lava ranges between a footnote and minor." Hm, I chuckled while Twilight jokingly nudged me with a wing. "Of course I won't reconsider; you're stuck with me Jack, as I've been with you."

"Charming."

"Check a mirror sometime." Dammit, that fast wit she adopted from me. Twilight giggled lightly herself, before regarding me as we strode up the hilltop of a glorious setting sun over a beautiful untouched field. "So, are we nearly there to see whatever you keep saying will make me feel better?"

With hope, in regards to the latter. I nodded, gazing up the soft grass with her. "We should be here... About now." Grinning wide already on seeing the top of the house.

Mere seconds before Twilight's loud, bewildered gasp. "Jack... You did this...?" Her breath soft, disbelieving... And immensely flattered.

I nodded, stepping back for Twilight to take in the full view of my worked-on gift for her. "With help from the others."

"All those months, working on that secret project you kept hushed about..."

"Ever since coming here to help Fluttershy with the native species close by, yes."

"All for me...?"

I didn't even blink with my loving conviction. "Always for you."

For what stood before us: A beautiful, exact replica of Twilight's... Our old tree house. Size and all. Approaching the newly remade home, the awed alicorn stepped forward under the shadow of the large bush above the house, exhaling in long, nostalgic wonder.

"How long did it take you to get every detail right?"

"Like you wouldn't believe." Came my wry remark, then swerving around the stunned Twilight for the familiar red door, gently pushing it open, gracing my love with the interior that caused another amazed, and elated gasp. "Weeks and weeks of recalling from memory as best I could. Though not a hundred percent exact, my memory isn't always great, but I hope it's enough-"

Pulling me abruptly in and magically shutting the door, Twilight wasted no time in the passionate, long embrace, my heartbeat speeding up in gratified relief she loved it so. Her own signature through Balance shining warmly, our bond feeling significantly stronger than ever before, the Princess of Friendship whispering tenderly.

"This is the possibly the best gift you've ever given me, Jack... I don't know how I could ever match this."

Softly brushing through her purple-pink mane with a fond hoof, I reassured lovingly, "You already had, long ago, my Princess."

When questioning violet looked into mine, I clarified with sheer content.

"Yourself."