> One Soul, Two Worlds
>  by Sparkleman
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> The First Dream
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

  
“Aaaahhh, man I’m tired. What time is it? Holy Bejebus! (That's what I say, deal with it) It’s already midnight. Ok, this can wait in the morning; I got a get some sleep.”

Yea, so basically I’ve just returned to college to become an engineer, first major project of the year due at eight in the morning, waited till last moment same old same old. Went over my mental checklist of stuff needed for the morning, got it together and ready. Changed into some more comfortable to wear to bed instead of my cargo pants (not complaining about the cargo pants though).

Now all ready to hit the hay I climbed into bed. As soon as I lied down my brain went into trolling mode again not letting me sleep. Going over my current life about myself being a little overweight, my vision impaired eyesight, and my luck at getting any form of friends kept me up for about another thirty minutes or so.

My mind slowly drifted away into the awesomeness that is my little pony. I think to myself how amazing it would be to live there instead of this crummy world I live in. Yea I got a good life ahead of me and should be happy, but living in Equestria would be amazing. Just as the happy thoughts began to sink in my eyes finally shut for what would just be another zombie survival filled dreamed night.


Oh how wrong I was…

Slowly I opened my eyes and let out a groan while getting myself upright. It was way to bright. "Oh Shit! Did I oversleep! What time is it!" I then realized I was in a strangely familier forest. I then realized that I was in my green polo shirt and brown cargo pants I had on before I went to sleep. "What the..."

"Hey there sleepy head! I Though you would never wake up! But why were you way out here near Zecora's hut sleeping anyways?" the voice was way to energectic for the morn...wait did the voice say Zecora's hut.

I slowly turned my head to see an all to familiar pink pony with puffy hair and three ballons on her flank.

"What in world is going on here?"

"Well you just woke up in the Everfree Forest silly filly," said an enrgetic Pinkie Pie.

"Waaahhh," was the only thing I could let out before I fainted from pure shock.

“AH! What?” I then realized that I was back in my dorm. I looked at the time. “I’ve only been asleep for ten minutes. That doesn’t seem right.”

I decided not to worry too much about my unusual dream and decided to get back to bed. I was going to need the sleep for the work that needed to be done in the morning.

Sleep quickly took over my eyes again and the Z’s were going in less than a minute.

My eyes slowly opened and I was looking at a strange ceiling. “This isn’t my dorm,” I thought to myself.

“What strange creature you have brought to me, my dear friend Pinkie.”

Was that?

“Well sure Zecora! I couldn’t just leave him out there is those spooky wookie woods. What is he got attacked by a creepy scary thingy?”

OK, now I know I’m dreaming. Better let them know I’m here so that I can control this dream like one of my other lucid dreams.

“Uh, hey. What’s up?” I wanted to let them know I was up. I was not expecting what cam next though.

*Very long gasping sound* “I thought that you had died since when I met you because you feel down almost instantly and I though you hit your head and got hurt or that you were ill or that you were some wacko creature that couldn’t stay awake for long but then Zecora said you had just fainted but it had been ten minutes and when every Rarity faints she always got back up in like five seconds but I was still worried for you since I have never seen your kind before and I wanted to make sure I say you when you woke up but it was taking so long so I created a party here in Zecora’s hut for when you woke up and now here he are so HAPPY WAKING UP PARTY!” Pinkie said very quickly and with one breath as she often does.

“Ah thanks, I guess.” I only caught about half of what she said. “So do you want to know what I am?”

“Inform us of your plight, so out knowledge can come to light.”

“Ok, so I’m a human, and I don’t know why I am here for the last thing I remember was falling asleep. I know that this isn’t a dream because I’ve tried to manipulate it like other dreams I’ve had so I think I’m really here but I don’t know how. But I’ve seen this place before through some visions and other dreams I couldn’t control. Your Zecora the potions master and she’s Pinkie Pie the number one party pony of Ponyville.”

Ok, so I lied a little about the visions thing, but hey, I’m in a land that is filled with magic so I presumed that they wouldn’t suspecting anything.

“Wow, visions, you should meet my bestest best friend Twilight Sparkle and tell her of your visions! Like, RIGHT NOW!”

“Ah ok, well, see you Zecora.”

“Be careful sir of that filly, she can be a little overboard on the silly.”

That was the last thing Zecora said before she closed the door. It was at this time that I realized something. My body felt lighter than usual. I look down and gasped. I was fit, not just skinny, but I had muscle. I then noticed that I wasn’t wearing my glasses but could see better than ever in my life. How did I miss this in the first visit. Oh, yea. I fainted within five minutes or so.

The sky suddenly got lighter, so I looked up and noticed we were out of the forest. I could see Ponyville in the distance and my heart skipped a beat. I realized that my dream, along with that of the thousands of other bronies, was coming true.

“Hey, let’s stop at Fluttershy’s house. She’ll love to meet you, since you’re kind of a new species here and all.”

I was going to meet Fluttershy! As Rainbow Dash would say, “Ohmygosh, Ohmygosh, Ohmygosh!”

“Yea I’ll be happy to meet her, let’s go!” I said calmly trying not to show my over enthusiasm. 



Ok, so it's my first time writing a fanfiction for anything before. This idea came to me one night after I dreamed a oddly real dream of being in Equestria one night and was like, what the hell. When an idea comes use it for you might lose it. Ok, so back to the important stuff. I plan on doing two or three updates a week on this and could use some help from a second person for corrections and editing and stuff. Also any feedback or ideas would be great. Anotherthing, I WILL NOT BE TRANFORMING INTO A PONY JUST TO MAKE THAT CLEAR. I will maintain a human form the whole story, so no idea giving about that. Well now that we got that clear, I hope that you all enjoyed this chapter and look forward to more.
> Meeting Fluttershy
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

    As Pinkie and I were walking down the path to Fluttershy’s house, Pinkie kept barraging me with questions.

“So where did you come from huh?” 

“A place called Earth.”

“Is this place big?”

“Yea, it’s big.”

“Like, how big?”

“It’s like super super super super big.”

“That’s like four-supers! It must be huuuuuuuuuugggggeeee!”

“Yea it is. OK. Now I have some questions for you Pinkie.”

“Ookie Dookie Lokie!”

“In my visions, you could sometimes break something that we call the 4th dimension. Do you do this intentionally or by accident?”

“Oh you silly filly, it’s on purpose of course!”

OK, so that shocked me. Wasn’t expecting her to know what I meant along with know how to manipulate it. Maybe that’s why Pinkie was the first of the mane six I met.

“Hey Pinkie, before you found me did your Pinkie Sense go off?”

“Yup! It was a doozey too! Oh look, Fluttershy’s house.”

We had just walking over a little hill and as clear as day right before us was Fluttershy’s house. Once more my excitement rose when I saw that peaceful little house surrounded by birds and woodland creatures.

“Man, my eyesight is amazing,” I thought, “Wish I could see this good back on Earth.”

As we approached Fluttershy’s home most of the creatures around the house stared with wonder in the eyes at this six foot tall giant. When we got close enough Pinkie knocked on the door.

“Fluttershy, it’s Pinkie. I have something very special with me that I would like to meet.”

Did Pinkie pie just sound normal? Was this an accident or was it to help keep Fluttershy calm enough so she wouldn’t have a heart attack when she saw me? Just then the door opened by just a crack, large enough for an eye to look through, but only enough to see Pinkie and not me.

“M-m-meet? P-P-Pinkie you know I’m no g-g-good with meeting other p-p-ponies,” came a very nervous yet adorable timid voice from behind the door that could only belong to Fluttershy.

“Oh, you silly filly. I know that! This isn’t a pony, it’s a creature called a human!”

“A h-h-human?” Her voice seemed like it got a little braver with the name of a new being that she could study.

Fluttershy proceeded to open the door just enough so she could get a good look behind Pinkie at me.

I bent down a little, waved, and with the most sincere, least scary tone said, “Hi there, you must be Fluttershy. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

“Eep!” *Slam*

“Ok, I knew she was shy, but did she have to slam the door?”

“It’s ok, give her a minute and she’ll be as friendly as you friend Pinkie Pie here.”

*Creak*

The door slowly reopened and the yellow and pink pony stepped outside, now with less fear but more curiosity in her eyes.”

“Y-y-you can talk?”

Oh my god, I was about to have a cuteness overload. I had to hold back the feeling to hug her.

“Ah yes, I can talk. If there anything you want to ask me I’d be happy to answer.”

“But first can we come in? Pretty-pretty-pretty please?” Pinkie almost cried it out.

“Oh, sorry Pinkie. Where are my manners? Please come in, and make yourself at home.”

“Yippee!”

Pinkie almost ran over Fluttershy in her need to sit down. I Walking in, having to duck through the door, and sat down on one of the couches. Fluttershy closed the door and sat on what I presumed was the sofa next to Pinkie. Pinkie hadn’t even been sitting for ten seconds before she shot back up again.

“Oopsie! I forgot I meant to get Twilight. I’ll be right back Fluttershy. I know she’ll love to meet Dylan here.”

Wait, how did see know my name? I don't remember telling her it. Fourth wall thing maybe, but before I could ask Pinkie then dashed out the door with that ungodly speed of hers. Seriously, if she was a Pegasus she would be even faster than Rainbow Dash.

“Wait a minute,” I thought, “Pinkie just left me alone with one of the most shy and timid ponies in Equestria alone.”

I rotated my head to look at Fluttershy. I was not expecting the face I saw, mainly because of the cuteness. She was looking right at me with the same kind of wonderment in her eyes that Twilight gets when she finds a new book to study. She must have realized the look on her face when I turned my head because she almost instantly hid behind her hair again, but was still looking at me.

“So, um, what are you again?”

“Oh, I’m what would be called a human. I’m sorta a highly evolved monkey.”

“Oh wow, but then how come you don’t have a lot of hair like one?”

“Well, I don’t really know. Do you something called evolution?”

She nodded her head up in down. “I see it in the birds all the time.”

“Ok, so you can sorta blame it on that. We gained intelligence but lost our natural fur. That’s why I am wearing clothing.”

“You mean you were them all the time?”

“Yes, we do. In our culture we find it rude to walk around naked in public. I know with you all it’s ok and I respect that, but if it’s ok could I keep my clothing on?”

“Yes, I wouldn’t want to insult your ideals.”

“Likewise.”

“So, um, do you eat ponies?”

That shocked me for a second. I knew it was coming but not that quickly and suddenly. I could see why she asked that. I was going to have to be careful how I worded the answer to this.

“No I don’t eat ponies…”

She sighed with relief.

“But…”

She got stiff again

“But, I do eat meat. Don’t worry though; I’m an omnivore, so I also eat plants and stuff. I also hardly eat meat unlike others in my society. I fact, I prefer eating fruits and vegetables over meats.”

Yet even though I eat right I'm still over weight in the human world. Damn you all that delicious Mac-and-Cheese as a kid!

Fluttershy’s body got looser after I explained to her my eating habits. She seemed glad that she wasn’t in any apparent danger anymore. The questions kept coming, but not just from Fluttershy anymore, but some from me. This continued for another thirty minutes or so until we heard a knocking at the door.

“Fluttershy, I’m back! I brought Twilight and Spike with me!”

“Oh, pardon me Dylan.”

Fluttershy flew over and opened the door. I readjusted myself on the chair for I noticed that I was slouching a little bit.

“Um, hi Twilight and Spike. Hello again Pinkie”

“Fluttershy, can you please tell me what has Pinkie so riled up? She won’t tell me what she found and BY CELESTIA!”

Twilight almost screamed that last part when she saw me. I waved to her with a big, maybe somewhat creepy, smile on my face. Spike then poked his head around Twilight and his eyes got wide with excitement.

“Cool. Pinkie, were did you find him again.”

“In the Everfree Forest silly. He was just lying on the ground like a dummy. Luckily auntie Pinkie Pie was there to save him!”

She proclaimed that last part like a hero who had saved the day. Twilight attention this whole time was on me with wonderment, yet caution in her eyes.

“So, what are you exactly and how did you get here?” The purple pony finally asked.

“Ah, here we go again…”



Ok, so I wanted to use this chapter as a testing with my converstion flow. If there is anything wrong or needs improvement I would be very happy to have it. I think I did well with making sure you could tell who was talking at what times. Also, before anyone raves about Fluttershy being was to brave, remember that when she meets a creature that she has never seen before because her curiosity gets the better of her. That is why she seems very brave in this chapter anwarmed up very quickly. Like before, and comments with ideas, reviews of the chapter, or quality would be greaty appriciated.
> Awesome Magika
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	"Ok, so did you get all of that Twilight?"

The purple pony had been taking notes for the last hour or so as I described where I had come from and exactly how I ended up in Equestria. She nodded her head showing me that she had written down everything I had said. I took a look around the room to see that the only Fluttershy had been able to stay awake during my Q and A with Twilight. I presumed that she wanted to know what we hadn't been able to go over together.

"I still don't understand though how your world doesn't have any magic in it," Twilight stated with a confused look on her face," I mean, it's second nature here."

"Well we have to remember that if my world is a parallel universe to this one, that each and every universe's evolution is different. We know this because I don't have colorful, five foot tall talking ponies on my world as you don't have and humans on yours."

"That made sense the first time we went over it, but that doesn't mean it is confusing none the less."

"Um... can I um... ask Dylan a question?"

Daaaawwww. Fluttershy's all shy and cute again. I had to hold my body back from instantly giving her a hug.

"Ah, sure Shy, what is it."

"Um, have you tried to use magic since you've gotten here. Maybe you can do it here?"

Twilight proceed to facehoof. "Ah, why didn't I think of that. Of course, we don't even know if you can use magic because you've never tried. Well, in our world of course. Maybe with all the magical energy in our world, you could use magic."

"Wait, wait, wait. Are you saying that I might of been able to absorb some of the magical properties of this world and use spells?'

"Essential, yes, that's what I mean."

"That is brilliant. If I have become keen to this world's magical energy that mine lacks, it could give me the ability to use magic. Let's go test this out."

I sorta yelled out that last part out of excitement and woke up Spike and Pinkie.

"What's all the commotion about Twilight?"

"Well Spike, we think that Dylan here might be able to se magic, but we're not sure."

"What, really! That would be super-duper amazing!' *Gasp* "I could throw a party if he could and it would be called CONGRATULATIONS ON USING MAGIC DYLAN! party. Oh, lets go try it out, like RIGHT NOW!"

The energetic Pinkie proceeded to almost fly out of Fluttershy's cottage.

"Um Fluttershy," I asked," is there a place nearby that we could test our theory?"

"Oh yes. There's a field behind my cottage that pretty big. We could go there."

Just then Pinkie popped here head back through the door and said," Ookie-Dookie I'll meet you there!"

As fast as she appeared she disappeared. Well, that's Pinkie for you, always random and over energetic. I proceeded to stand up and stretch along with Spike, Twilight, and Fluttershy. Once we were all stretched out and ready to go we filed out of Fluttershy's home. It took us about five minutes to get to the field. Pinkie was already there, thumping her rear right hoof in an impatient manner.

"Well it took you long enough slowpokes."

"We're sorry Pinkie, we're just not as fast as you are." Twilight responded.

"It's alright silly filly. I was just joking."

Ok, I don't care what people on my world say. Pinkie is way less random than I thought, yet harder to read. Maybe I just haven't been around her enough to notice.

"Dylan, you ready?"

"Huh, oh yea, we're here to see if I can do magic. Sorry Twilight, I got lost in thought. Right, so before I do anything that could injury or kill us, any pointers?"

"Um, create a picture of what you want to do in you're head clearly before conjuring it. Then focus that image into the area around you, say you hand or that rock over there. The rest should come natural to you after that if you are able use magic at all."

"Thanks for the advice. You should all stand back if anything goes wrong. Shy, did you bring a med kit in case somepony or body gets hurt?'

"Yes"

"Ok, thanks. Here I go."

I decided to try making a simple ball of fire in my hand. I think that was the pyro in me that made the decision. I pictured a little ball of fire in my mind. I lifted my hand up to about shoulder level three feet from my face. I proceeded to picture the flame in my hand. I suddenly felt my body warm up like I was laying under the sun on a warm summer day. I felt so nice that I almost broke my concentration. I hardened my mind and body once more and continued to weave the spell. I heard a large gasp behind me and proceed to open my eyes. I couldn't believe what I saw. In my hand was the ball of fire I had made in my mind, yet it was a blushish-purple flame. But who cares, I could cast magic!

"Ohmygod, Ohmygod, Ohmygod! I have a flame in my hand!"

"Well no duh silly, it's so pretty that it's hard not to see it."

"I've never seen a purple flame before," Said a wide eyed Twilight," did you picture it to be purple?"

"No, I was trying to make it just a simple orangy-red flame. What's really bothering me is that it's not burning me. Is that suppose to happen?"

"Well, yes and no. I should be hot enough so you wouldn't want to hold it but not enough to burn. Does it fell like that?"

"No, I feels as if I'm touching warm blanket or something. It feels quite nice actually."

"Cool. Can you launch it out of you hand?"

"Not sure Spike lets see."

I turned to face the boulder that Twilight pointed out earlier. I just thrusted my arm forward and let my mind off of holding the flame completely. The small ball of fire shot out of my hand and strait to the boulder faster than bullet. It made contact with the boulder and erupted into a blueish-purple pillar of swirling flame that cascaded about thirty feet into the air. All we could do was oh and ah. The pillar died down in about a second leaving a flame polished boulder in it's place, along with a circle of dead grass. The three ponies and dragon then turned to faced me with amazement in their eyes. 

"Did you plan the whole pillar part?" Ask the amazed unicorn.

"No, not at all. I just let the flame go. After that everything was sorta, what did you say, natural instinct of something."

"That wasn't a simple spell you just casted natu..."

*BOOM!*

"What the hell was that?"

"Rainbow Dash."

"Wait, what do you mean Rainbo..."

Just then a very fast moving object collided into me stopping my sentence short and knocking the air out of me along with the ground from underneath my feet. I landed on my butt with a cyan, rainbow maned pony on top of me. She didn't seem to notice me before addressing the others.

"Yo, Twi. I saw that flame pillar thing. Totally awesome if I must say."

"Um, Rainbow Dash, that wasn't me."

"Then who was it?"

"Uh, down here," I croaked out.

"Oh sorry about..."

Rainbow Dash had turned to face me while saying that and caught my form midway in sentence. She yelped and then jumped/flew behind the others in fear.

"What is that thing?"

"This thing," I replied while dusting myself off," is a human. The first one in Equestria it seems like and the one who casted the totally awesome pillar of flame you just admired so much."

"You're not going to hurt me are you?"

"Oh no, Dylan isn't going to hurt you Rainbow Dash. He's actually very nice and gentlecoltish."

"If you say so Shy."

I blushed a little at what fluttershy said about me. No one had ever said that about me before, and for Fluttershy to say that about me it was hard not to. Something then hit me. A wave of sleepiness washed over me. Suddenly the world got dark and the last thing I heard was Fluttershy say, "Oh no, did something happen when he casted that spell. Oh-dear, oh-dear, oh-dear."

------------------------

When my eyes reopened I was back in my dorm room. I looked over at my clock and it read 6:30 AM.

"Was that just some crazy dream or had I really been to Equestria. It seemed way to real if it was a dream though."

I decided it was time for me to get ready and get that paper done. By the time I finished everything and looked up it was 8:45.

"Shit! Class starts in fifteen minutes."

I quickly printed out my report and rushed to class. I tried to keep my mind off the dream but it was weird, I couldn't forget anything about it like I usually did three hours after waking up. I went through the rest of my school day and work with the dream (?) in the back of my mind. Before I knew it, it was 10:00 PM. I decided to hit the hay for the night, last night's dream still in the back of my mind.

"I wonder *yawn* if I'll go back again tonight. Well whatever, I'm *yawn* pooped."

My eyes slowly closed yet the sleep came once more in wave. In seconds I was off to dream land again.

-------------------------

"Oh, he's coming around," said an all too familiar shy toned voice.

"Darling, you must give him some space."

My eyes slowly reopened to see six colorful ponies and purple baby dragon gathered around me in somebody's home.

"Am I were I think I am?"

"Well sugercube, if you mean Equestria than yes. If not, than I'm sorry partner," said an orange,blond maned pony.

"Now darling, he was here yesterday, so the question was probably rhetorical," Stated a white, purple maned pony.

"He did say though he came here when he fell asleep in his world. To him it could of seemed like a dream."

"Wait," I spoke up," So I was here yesterday. It wasn't a dream. I knew it, it was way to real to be one. Thanks for clearing that up Twilight. Now I don't think I've been introduced to your two other friends properly yet (though I knew who they were)."

I sat up in the bed I was laying in, turned to face the newcomers, and as kindly as I could said," Hello, I'm Dylan Sparks. It is a pleasure to meet you both."
> Beautiful Magic
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	“Well, golly. I’m Applejack and this here is…”

“Rarity, the most dashing pony in all of Ponyville.”

“Hmm, I wouldn’t go that far,” muttered Applejack under her breath. I barely caught her say that and lucky Rarity didn’t.

“Well, it’s a pleasure to meet you,” still keeping my polite tone mainly for Rarity sake, “as you can see I’m not from this world.”

“We already informed them of the Dylan.”

I turned my head toward Twilight. “Well, I didn’t know that. Also, how long have I been asleep?”

“For about 16 hours, it’s 8:00.”

Hmmm. The same amount of time that I was awake in my world. That confirms it, when I sleep in my world I come here and vice-versa.

“16 hours you say, I was awake for that amount of time in my world. What you said just confirmed my previously thought theories. When I sleep in this world I return to mine, and for however long I stay awake in my world I sleep in this one. What I don’t know yet is if I stay awake in this world for say twelve hours if I will wake up in my world twelve hours after I went to sleep.”

“We could try this out today and you can inform me of the outcome tomorrow,” Twilight responded, “but will this affect you in your own world tomorrow if you stay up that long?”

“Naw, not tonight. I don’t have anything to do tomorrow.  I actually don’t have anything important to do for the next four days in my world.”

Luckily my winter break had just started and I was off work till after Christmas. Family wasn’t an issue since my parents went out to travel the world once I got into college. Smart bastards, making me get enough scholarships for school so they could spend the money doing what I always wanted.

As my mind came back to the current world I finally noticed how cramped it was in the room. I also noticed I was back in Fluttershy’s cottage. I decided it was time for me to get out of this slightly too short of a guest bed.

*Cough Cough* Everypony focused their heads toward me.

“Um,” I started to say, “I don't mean to be rude or anything but C\can I have some room to get ready?”

“Oh, of course darling,” Rarity said as she gathered the others and herded them out of the door, “Let the pony, I mean man, have some space to get ready.”

After Rarity had gotten everyone out she turned to me and said, “I made some new clothing for you dear, based on what you had on yesterday. I would be overjoyed if you wore them. They’re in the top drawer of the dresser over there.”
She pointed to the only dresser in the room. I nodded showing that I understood and she the same before walking out of the door. She really does live up to her name of being the element of generosity. I climbed out of bed noticing my shirt was off but luckily my pants were still on.

“Ah thank the gods; I thought they might have changed me down to the skin.”

I proceeded to walk over to the dresser and open the top drawer. I gasped at what I saw. Four pairs of cargo shorts, two the same brown that I currently was wearing, and two kaki colored. There were also five shirts, my dark green one from yesterday, two blues, a red and a slightly lighter green one. There was also three pair of socks and briefs. When I saw the briefs that when I knew they took off my pants. I shrugged it off because it would be weird wearing the same briefs from the day before. I changed into fresh pair of briefs and put on one of the brown shorts with the red shirt. I found my shoes under the bed I then put my dirty pants and briefs in the second drawer and walked out of the room downstairs, ducking almost half the way.

“Hey, what’s up everyone?”

The gang was in the living room small talking. As soon as I spoke they all focused on me. Rarity dashed over to me inspecting my clothes.

“Do they fit dear?”

“Yea, they’re perfect. Thank you for making these for me.”

“Oh, it wasn’t just me darling. Fluttershy and Twilight brought me the measurements. Applejack and Rainbow Dash brought me the materials needed while Pinkie described in detail how you looked. It was a group effort.”

I blushed a little when I found out the Fluttershy measured me and Pinkie could describe well enough for Rarity to make four sets of clothing for me.

“Well sugacube, I heard you can cast some fancy magic that surprised even Twilight here.”

“I guess, you want to see it?”

“Ah sure would.”

“Are you sure Dylan,” said the timid voice of non other than Fluttershy, “the last time you casted it you fell asleep out for half a day.”

“It’s ok Fluttershy, I was already tired then. I think I’ll be ok this time.”
“Oh, ok then.”

We filed out of the cottage and headed to the field again. I stayed in the back and decided to talk with Spike since I haven’t had much of a chance either trip.

“So, how does it feel to be a dragon in a town of ponies?”

“Well, it was difficult at first being the strange one in town.” I knew how that felt. “But everypony warmed up and now I have lots of friends.”

“So, Spike, about your little crush on Rarity.”

“How did you find that out! No one knows that I like her except Pinkie and Twilight! And they did a Pinkie promise not to tell anyone!”

“Hey, hold up, I’m just really good at reading emotions and expressions. I could tell that you liked just by the few minutes we were in Fluttershy’s cottage. Also, I’ve had the visions remember. I saw the time you told them in the spa.”

“Oh, yea, forgot about the visions. Twilight told me about them. Is it really that easy to tell though?”

“No, no, no,” I lied to not hurt the little guy’s feelings, “as I said, I’m just really good at ready expressions and emotions.”

“Well, ok, if you say so.”

“Hey slowpokes,” said Rainbow Dash rather loudly, “We’re already here!”

I looked up to see the others already at the bottom of the hill while Spike and I was only halfway down.

“Hey Spike, race you down.”

“You’re on!”

A few seconds later we were down the hill. Spike somehow came in first only by tripping and rolling down the last stretch of hill. Still, how did I lose to a dragon not even a third of my size?

“So, darling, I heard that you casted a magnificent flame on your first try at magic.”

“Well howdy, I like to see that.”

“Well, ok. I’m going to try something just a little different this time though, so stand back just in case.”
The six ponies took a few steps back while Spike stayed right at my side. I didn’t bother since I knew he was resistant to magic being a dragon and all but Twilight told him to step back. He wouldn’t until Rarity asked him to. He proceeded to go straight to her side to “protect her” just in case something did go wrong.

“Ok, here I go.”

I held out my right hand and made the mental image of a blueish-purple flame. The warmth I felt from before rushed through my body and concentrated into my hand. A ball of flame, slightly larger than the one from before appeared in my hand. Still keeping some focus on the flame in my right hand I created another in my left. Just then I heard some gasps behind me.

“What beauty! The flames match my mane!” said Rarity with a shortness of breath from the gasp.

“You haven’t seen anything yet,” I said over my shoulder, “watch this!”

I was taking a shot at this but I though what would happen if I combined the two flames like duel casting Skyrim. I slowly moved the two flames together focusing on them becoming one larger flame. The flames shaped to my will and became one in between my hands. Now I heard Twilight gasp. I don’t think she’s seen something like this before. Even better then, I was making a new kind of spell casting for Equestria!  I slowly pulled my hand apart but kept the magical energy flowing from my hands to ball of fire floating in between.

“I’m going to fire it at the boulder. Brace yourselves!”

shot my hand forward sending the magical ball of fire forward at a blinding speed. What happened next even I didn’t anticipate. The ball became a long line of fire that oddly resembled a Chinese dragon. Right before it hit the boulder it made and inaudible roar and exploded into three pillars of flame, each one as big as the first one I casted the day before. The flames circled once then collapsed together into a fiery, yet strangely graceful explosion that turned the boulder itself in a highly polished gemstone. Which gem I’m not entirely sure being that I knew nothing about gems, but even to me it was beautiful. Once the fire died down Rarity rushed to the gem.

“Oh my, what every did you do to make such a magnificent gem to appear for me. It’s simply ravishing with beauty.”

“Maybe he just did what Discord did to Tom for you.” Twilight jokingly said.

“We said we would never talk about Tom again.”

“Oops, sorry.”

Me being as baffled as anyone else on how the gem appeared just went, “I didn’t do anything, just shot my flame at it.”

“Well that spell was a mystery in itself. How did you know that combining spells would make it that much more powerful?”

“I just went along the lines of two is better than one and that happened.” I shrugged as I said it.


“Well whatever you did it was like 20% cooler than yesterday’s spell.”

“Thanks Dash.”

“You don’t feel tired at all do you?”

“Not at all Fluttershy,” I squatted down to get eye level with her, “but thanks for checking up on me.”

She blushed a little and turned away at the sincere reply. So cute, must hold back urge to hug. Then Pinkie Pie tackled me.

“Oh My Gosh, that was like super-duper mega awesome! You’re creativity is almost as crazy as mine with that dragon at the end that looked like a beefed up Spike! Can you do it again please, please, please?”

“Um,” I could barely get anything out with her standing on top of me, “Well, I could but I want to try something else first. Also, I can’t breathe.”

“Oh, sorry.” Pinkie proceeded to jump of me and crash (?) into Rainbow Dash who was a few feet away from me.

“Hey, Applejack.”

“Yea sugercube?”

“Can we go to your farm? I want to try an idea I had.”

“Well sure, but what do you want to do?”

“I want to buck an apple tree,” I said with a wide, almost devilish grin on my face. 

> Strength of Heart
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	"You wanna what now?" Applejack asked.

"You heard me, I wanna buck some damn apples."

"Well sugarcube, seeing as ya'll don't have any hind quarters to buck them with, how ya'll going to buck one?"

"You'll see if you let me."

"Well, sure, but don't saw ah didn't warn ya."

"Wait, wait, wait," Yelled a frantic Rarity, "I can't just leave Greg here all alone. What if some diamond dogs get him?"

"Don't worry Rarity," Twilight responded, "I'll just teleport 'him' back to the boutique."

"Oh thank you darling thank you."

Twilight walked over to the large gem that I somehow crafted and closed her eyes. Her horn started to glow with a large amount of magical energy surrounding it. After a few seconds she and the gem popped away only leaving an indent in the grass were they recently stood. Not even a second later Twilight reappeared panting and gem-less.

"It's back. At the. Boutique. In the. Main room," Said Twilight between gasps for air.

"Oh dear, I hope I didn't ask to much of you."

"Not. At all."

"Ok, so now that that's taken care of. Lets head on over to Sweet Apple Acres!" I said as I turned and started walking away.

"Ah, sugar, the farm the other way."

I turned around with a look of embarrassment on my face.

"I knew that."

Rainbowdash, Pinkie and Spike proceed to laugh at my mistake only making me blush harder. I could tell Fluttershy was holding back to not hurt my feelings while Rarity was too busy tending over a gasping Twilight to take any notice. I turned to Applejack, but she knew what i was going to ask.

"Yea, yea. I'll lead the way. Come on everypony, lets go see our new guest buck some apples."

Sweet, I was going to buck some apples and test out a theory I had developed. We had to wait a few minutes for Dash to stop laughing and Twilight to regain her breath, but were soon on our way. I decided to walk along side Applejack at the front and talk a little.

"So, Applejack, you really don't think I can buck an apple-tree?"

"Well, sure hun. If you do it right, just 'bout anypony can buck an apple tree."

"Thanks for the encouragement. Hey, I've been wondering, how come you have a country accent while every other pony here doesn't?"

"Well, sugarcube, I reckon I don't really know that answer myself. I was just kind born with it just like the rest of mah family."

That wasn't the answer I was expecting but hey, lots of things don't make sense in this world, Pinkie proves that almost every minute. I decided no to ask any more personal questions for a while. About an hour later as out little troop reached the top of a hill that separated Fluttershy's cottage from Ponyville, what I saw took my breath away. Ponyville sat right in front of me looking even grander, though maybe not Canterlot grand, than I ever imaged. The colors were brighter than the show and the homes look nice and neat. It made my heart skip a little with joy knowing that I had reached what every brony dreamed of.

"Let's get going!" I almost shouted that part but was able to keep some control over myself.

The group began to pick up the pace until we hit the outskirts of town. By now we were walking/trotting at a reasonable pace. I could see an assortment of colorful ponies ahead of me walking and going about their daily lives. All of a sudden I heard a scream. I looked up fast enough to see a terrified Bon-Bon ahead of me pointing a hoof at me.

"A monster! Everyone run or it will eat you where you stand!" Bon-Bon shouted loud enough to  hurt my eardrums and I was standing a good one hundred feet away.

It didn't take a second for the rest of the town to start panicking after the outburst. Within seconds the streets were deserted and housed sealed up like when Zecora used to come to town. I took me by surprise that the town would act this way. I looked at the mane six around me and saw Twilight face hoofing.

"Um, Twi, why is everyone hiding?" I asked with a rather confused look on my face.

She groans and looked up at me. "They're hiding because your new. When I mean new I mean strange an somewhat scary to everypony. Before you ask, we weren't scared because we have seen a lot, and I mean a lot of scary creatures and could tell you weren't one of them."

"Ok, so how do I make them unafraid of me then?"

"Well sugar, you just gotta get into their hearts hearts some how."

"So, be kind to them?"

"Or you could throw a super-duper big party." *Gasp* "Oh my gosh I never threw you a welcome to Equestria party! I have to go set one up right now and invite everyone! Then they will get to know you for who you are!"

With that Pinkie disappeared in a blink of an eye. We all just looked dumbfounded at where Pinkie was just standing. Applejack just shook her head and signaled us to continue onward. As we walked through town Twilight pointed out were everything was. I saw where the library was and Carousal Boutique. Dash showed me her home in the clouds, although all I could see was the bottom of the cloud that her home was on. We passed by Sugarcube Corner and I thought I saw Pinkie Pie inside decorating. After a few minutes we reached the other end of town ending my brief tour. I could see the edge of Sweet Apple Acres ahead of me and a large red barn-house on a hill in the middle of if. A few moments later we were entering the front gate walking by rows of apple trees.

"Hey, Applejack. Can I met your family?"

"Well, ah don't see any harm in it. Just don't spook 'em too bad."

"I'll try not too, but after the incident in town I don't know."

"Oh we apples are a hard bunch to spoke."

"I'll take your word for it."

As we walked towards the barn I saw a big red pony walk out. Before i could say anything Applejack yelled out, "Hey, Big Mac, we got some company, some oh 'em new. Come introduce yourself."

Big Mac just casually walked over to us. When he saw me his eyes got as big as a plate but quickly went back to their normal size as he recomposed himself. I was a little surprised just how fast he recovered.

"You're, not afraid of me?" I just had to ask.

"Nope."

Great, his one word wonder answers. At least they got to the point.

"Well, thats good." I replied, "I guess i should introduce myself. I'm Dylan Sparks, and I presume you're Big Mac based on what your sister yelled out early."

"Yee-up."

"Ok then, nice to meet you."

"Ok, now that the introductions have gone under way," Applejack interrupted, "lets go see yah buck an apple tree."

The lot of us, now including Big Mac, began to walk over to the nearest apple tree with a full batch of apples in it. We gathered some buckets on the way and placed them under the tree when we got there. After placing the final bucket I noticed just how thick the trunk of this tree was. It had to be at least six feet in diameter. I gulped a little realizing what I just got myself into.

"Well, get going hotshot." Applejack wasted no time in getting my motivation going.

"Ok, here goes nothing." I turned around and brought my leg up into kicking position. I took a quick practice kick to make sure I had my aim right to hit the center of the tree trunk. I brought my leg back and released at full strength. The tree shook a little, but no apples fell down. I could hear Rainbow Dash holding in her laughter.

I turned to face Dash, shrugged, and said, "Ta-da!" As soon as the words left my mouth Dash, along with Spike, bursted out laughing. Applejack just slowly walked up to me shacking her head.

"Bucking apples just ain't for all of us sugarcube."

"Give me one more chance, I think I can do it this time."

"All right then, try again," Applejack stated, "but don't hurt yourself no yah hear."

"Will do."

I faced the tree again, but this time gathered my thoughts around me. If I could just cast magic that could fortify my arms into steel. Wait, maybe I can.

"Hey, Twilight, is there a way to use magic to fortify oneself into something stronger."

She thought for a second before responding, "I haven't heard or read of any spells that can. I'm sorry."

"That's ok, thanks though." I replied. I just have to make one then. I closed my eyes and pictured iron bars forming on my right arm. All of a sudden my arm got a lot heavier and my concentration broke and the weight disappeared. Ok, so I have to factor in the weight also. I began again but this time imaging the iron to be as light as a feather while keeping their strength. I finished imaging the spell and applied it to my arm. I began to pull back my arm to punch the tree but Applejack interrupted me.

"I don't think your arms will do any better sugar."

"Just watch." I said a little sharped than I wanted to. Applejack shrunk back a little bit because of my sharp reply but I was trying to concentrate. I shot my hand forward into the tree with a large cracking sound. The tree shook violently from my punch and all the apples proceeded to fall from the trees branches. I turned to see six ponies and a dragon opened mouthed behind me from what I just did.

"Wha....bu...how in tarnations did yah do that?" Applejack said rather dumbfounded. 

"I just created a fortifying spell that made my punch as strong as an iron beam. Not much to it actually." I shrugged.

"Amazing," said a newly composed Twilight, "can you teach me how you did it?"

"Sure, I guess, but later." Twilight got a little deflated from that. I finally noticed that after recomposing herself Fluttershy seemed scared of me.

"Hey Shy, what's wrong?" I asked. She let out a little yelp and flew behind Dash. Ok, that hurt me a little inside.

Everyone's attention was now on Fluttershy and me. Dash quickly got out of the way to reveal a cowering Fluttershy.

"Fluttershy, we can't help you if you don't tell us what's wrong." I said slowly inching myself closer to her trying not to look scary or intimidating. "Just tell us what's wrong."

"Y-y-you're st-st-strong." She replied in a tiny, scared voice, "and you m-m-might h-h-hurt me."

"I'm not always strong, and I would never hurt you." I said kindly. Man, did I really scare her that much. I had to choose my next words carefully or this could get ugly. "You, along with everpony here and Pinkie, already have a special place in my heart. I would go through great lengths to protect you with my strength , but never to harm you."

Her shaking stopped and she looked up with wet eyes. "Really?" She asked.

"Really. I will protect you, all of you," I turned to the others, now facing all the ponies together, "and I vow never to use my strength or magic if it could harm anypony unless need be."

Fluttershy uncurled herself from her ball with a smile on her face approving what I just said. I opened my arms as a gestured for a forgiveness hug and was meet with five ponies tackling me to the ground with a giant group hug. Spike and Big Mac decided to stay back at laugh at the scene in front of them. Suddenly a bright pink blur shot out of the trees and landed on group.

'Party's ready everypony!" Shouted an enthusiast Pinkie Pie.

--------------------------------

Sorry for the long release, but I had been sick the past week along with my birthday over the weekend so in short; I had been awfully busy and could spend much time writing this story as I would like. I can promise to all of you who are reading this my originally sheculde of getting a chapter out every two to three days will begin anew this week. Also, thank you all for waiting patiently for this chapter.

P.S. I am still open to any ideas or changes you can offer.

> Acceptence
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	"Lets get this party started!" Spike said.

We were just entering town when the dragon made his announcement. I couldn't wait either and was a little sour that Spike said it first.

"Um, Spike, we won't be at Sugarcube Corner for another five minutes," pointed out Rainbow Dash, "But I could get you there in ten seconds flat if you want to go ahead."

"Never mind. I want to get there with all of you."

"Good answer, because I wouldn't let you get to my party before I did." I said.

We started laughing at Spike defeated reaction. As the laughter calmed down I say Applejack talking to Big Mac. She's probably just filling him in on how I got here, I thought to myself. I turned my attention to Rarity and Pinkie who were walking together. I changed my pace to match with them and struck up a conversation to past the time.

"So, Rarity, what's this about a Tom fellow?" I asked, even though I knew the answer. "I he an ex-coltfriend or something along that line."

Rarity seemed taken back at my sudden interest and shook a little in disgust when I mention a coltfriend. Before she could answer Pinkie jumped in.

"Oh no, Tom wasn't anything like that. Tom was a giant rock that Rarity thought was a giant diamond when Discord came back and changed us into things that weren't us. Rarity named it Tom and worshipped it until Twilight brought us all back from what seemed like a scary dream that I couldn't laugh at and make disappear. When Twilight brought us back Rarity through out Tom and told us never to speak of it again like how I am doing right now."

Pinkie finally realized what she had just done and looked over at an infuriated Rarity staring her down. All she got ok was a simple "Oops" before Rarity tackled her.

"PIIIINNNKIIIEEE!" Shouted Rarity in anger rivaling Twilights flame mode, "WHAT DID I SAY ABOUT TOM!"

"To never ever ever ever ever talk about him, I mean it," squeaked Pinkie.

"Alright then," said Rarity acting as if nothing had happened, "now tell us about this party darling."

Ok, note to self, do not piss-off Rarity in any way. She is down right scarier than Jason, Freddie, and Jigsaw combined. Wait, if she's like then what about... I turned to face Twilight picturing her mane erupting in flames from pure rage. My body shivered from the image brought before me.

"What's wrong Dylan?" asked a concern Twilight noticing my sudden shivering.

"Oh, nothing," I replied, "Just thought of something scary, that's all."

"Dylan, if you become scared just laugh at it and it will disappear."

"Ok Pinkie, I'll try but I don't think laughing alone will make these creatures go away."

"THEN GIGGLE TOO!" Pinkie said enthusiastically.

We all began to laugh, Pinkie included. We laughed for a good minute before we calmed down. I do have to say though, I feel better now after that laugh. We continued for the next few minutes go over what had happened the past two days since I arrived. It brought a new light into just how strong I was in this world. Twilight also remembered that she hadn't sent a letter to Celestia yet about my appearance and made a mental note to write it tonight. The next twenty minutes passed rather quickly and the next thing any of us knew we were in front of Sugarcube Corner.

"Oh, we're here." Stated Twilight.

I couldn't help myself. I turned to Twilight with a giant, yet creepy smile and said, "You don't say."

Dash, Pinkie, and Spike immediately bursted out laughing at the one liner. Twilight seemed taken back at first but realized it was a joke and giggled a little herself. Applejack, Mac, Rarity, and Fluttershy missed what I said and looked at us with wonder and curiosity at what made us laugh.

Pinkie, regaining herself rather quickly, piped up, "Come on everypony! Lets go party!"

We cheered and entered the bakery. As soon as we enter about three dozen ponies popped out and yelled, "SURPRISE!" They then saw who they were saying surprise to and froze. Bon-bon though started to say something but was muffled by a quick reacting Rainbow Dash. Before anypony could move or yell out in fear I quickly said what I had prepare beforehand.

"Hello everypony," I started very politely and calmly, "My name in Dylan Sparks and I am a human. I know I look strange and maybe scary, but I promise you I am friendly. If I wasn't, would I be walking in with seven ponies and a dragon who treat me as a friend?"

My words seemed to prevent anypony from screaming but they were will unconvinced. At least it seemed like they would give me a chance. "Don't blow this one up dylan, it might be you only chance," I thought to myself. I looked over at Dash who was still partially gagging Bob-Bon and motioned for her to release her. She complied and surprisingly Bon-Bon didn't scream again. I let out a breath of air in relief then turned to Twilight.

"Ok, I calmed them down, but how do i get them to trust me," I whispered into Twilight's ear.

"Let me handle this," she whispered back. She faced the group of ponies and coughed clearing her voice. "as I have seen, most of you are afraid of this new being being presented to you..."

"Thanks Twilight for being to blunt," I thought.

"... but why are you so scared of him? If he wanted to hurt anypony he would have already. He makes it very clear that he is here peacefully and just wants to belong. Lets follow the ways that the princesses have taught us and spread kindness and love to our guest, just as you all did with Spike and me. You showed me through Spike that everypony here can accept something new, and also forgive if that something new hurts you. Lets give Dylan here a chance that everypony deserves when arriving in a new town."

Oh my god, I was about to cry for how she stood up for me. I looked around and saw that the other mane six were on  the edge of crying also. I looked around the room at the ponies and saw that they had listened and all of their fear had been wiped clean away. I wiped my eyes and coughed getting everyone attention focused on me.

"Well, now that the serious stuff is out of the way. Lets Party!" I shouted out the last part while throwing my arms wide. 

Pinkie ran over to a pony I recognized as DJ-pon3. DJ trotted over to her system and started up some music. I forgot that even though these ponies live in an age of what seems to be the medieval ages to us, they have technology like lights and sound systems. The party started to pick up and I was greeted by several ponies, some who I knew such as Cheerilee, Bon-Bon, and even Derpy. That was an interesting meeting, but thats another story for another time.

A few hours, and lots of cupcakes later, the party began to come to a close. The invited ponies started heading home, saying their final goodbyes to me and the great party to Pinkie. After all the ponies left Applejack and Big Mac said their goodbyes. They had some last minute things they had to do at the farm before nightfall and took their leave. Fluttershy excused herself because she had to go feed the animals at her house and politely left. All that was left was Pinkie, Twilight, Dash, the Cakes and myself in the room. I noticed the absence of Rarity first.

"Um, anypony know where Rarity took off to?"

"She had to go back to the Boutique about an hour or so ago," responded Spike rather quickly, "She had an important order that she had to finish by tonight. I offered to go help but she convinced me to stay here."

"Oh, ok." I said. Just then something hit my mind. Where am I going to sleep? "Um, I just realized, I have nowhere to stay tonight."

"That's fine," said Twilight, "You can sleep at the library, there's plenty of room."

"Thanks."

Suddenly we heard crying from upstairs. "Oh, that must by the twins," said Mrs. Cake, "I'll go check up on them."

"I'll come with you sugarplum," said Mr. Cake. With that Mr. and Mrs. Cake left the room.

"Well, it's getting late," said Twilight, "best if we get heading to the library and settle in."

"Yea," I replied yawning, "see ya tomorrow Pinkie and Dash."

"Night!" They replied in unison.

Twilight, with Spike on her back, and I left the bakery and headed to the library. After a few minutes of walking we were there. Twilight opened the door and we walked in.

"Make yourself at home while I prep your bed," said Twilight.

"Ok, do you mind if I read some stuff on magic?"

"No, not at all. The magic section is over there." She pointed at the top shelf of the far left bookcase.

"Thanks." I walked over and looked through the book covers. I decided to read what looked like a beginner book on magic call Magic and You, Easy Elemental Magic. I flipped to the electric spells and did some brief reading on them before switching over to ice spells. Before I knew it an hour had passed, Spike had gone to sleep, and Twilight had finished prepping my room

"That's a good book, taught me all of the basic elemental spells."

I looked up form the book to the clock noticing it was pressing midnight. I yawned rather loudly causing Twilight to yawn as well.

"Guess it's time to get to bed, we're both exhausted," I said.

Twilight just nodded and started heading up the stairs. I walked over the the door to my room. When Twilight reached the top of the stairs she turned around and said, "Goodnight Dylan, have fun back in your world"

"I'll try, but it will be hard without Pinkie." We laughed a little at that before I continued. "Yea, well, goodnight to you too Twilight."

With that I entered my room and fell face first on my bed. I thought about how easily the citizens of ponyville accepted me after they got to know me before letting the refreshing wave of sleep roll over me.

-------------------------------

That's it for this chapter. All I can say is that writing these things have really been fun, along with next chapter will be about 3500 to 4000 words in length. I'm going try to start making longer chapters without taking away release times. As always, if there are any errors or suggestions I am happy to take them.

P.S. Still looking for an editor if anypony wants to volunteer.
> Back on Earth
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	*Bzzz, Bzzz, Bzzz.*

"Shut up you stupid alarm," I said tiredly.

I took a quick look at my surroundings. I was back in my dorm room on Earth. I remembered what had happened in Equestria last night, no yesterday, ah whatever it should be. I looked over at my clock. It read 9:30 AM. Seems about right. I was in Equestria for what seemed like twelve hours or so.

"Dude, get up! We're going to be late!"

"Huh, what." *Smack* My roommates hand firmly connected with face waking me up. "Will, slow down man!" I shouted now fully awake, "what's the rush?"

Will, my roommate and best pal since entering college two years ago, was franticly getting dressed.

"Did you forget, we have class in thirty minutes and it's across campus."

"Ah, Will, it's spring break and a Saturday remember. Classes ended yesterday and we wouldn't have a class today if it wasn't Spring break."

He stopped stiff with a puzzled look an his face. The puzzled look slowly turned into an "Oh yea, that's right" look. Will sat back down on his bed and let out a breath of air. I sat up fully and put my glasses on.

"Huh," I said out loud.

"What?" asked Will.

I removed my glasses, put them back on, and removed them once more.

"My vision, it's perfect."

"Well duh, that's why you where glasses so it can be perfect."

"No, I mean without them. I can see perfectly."

"Oh ok. Wait, what!?!"

I set my glasses down and got out of bed as Will kept staring at me with wonder. I took off the shirt I wore to bed preparing to get ready for the day. As soon as I did though Will let out a large gasp.

"What?" I asked. It wasn't like it was the first time he saw me shirtless before.

"Dude, look down." Will said while pointing downward.

I looked down to see what the fuss was about. I almost screamed with shock at what I saw. I was fit, not like bodybuilder six pack fit, but trimmed, like all of my fat had been taken away overnight leaving all of my muscle behind. Though completely surprised I had to say, I looked good.

"But, but, but how?" I asked myself. Then it hit me, Equestria. My body that I had when I visited there seemed to have magically connected with my world improving my Earth body.

"Ah, Dylan," started Will, "What's going on because it looks like you know."

I looked at Will dead in the face and said strait up, "Equestria."

He had a slight look of confusion on his face as he processed what I just said. Once he did he bursted out laughing. He continued until he noticed that I was serious.

"You're not joking, are you?"

I shook my head. "There's something I have to tell you."

After four hours of explaining, and answering any questions Will had for me, I had finally retold him of the events of my "Dream Teleportation" of the last two nights. Luckily Will was a fellow Brony and seemed to take it well.

"So, let me get this strait, you have met everypony from the show?"

"Well, most of them."

"And you can cast powerful magic that they have never seen before?"

"Yup."

And you go in-between the worlds when you sleep?"

"Yes."

"Yet you don't fully know how or why this happens?'

"Well i have a theory..."

We looked each other dead in the eyes and in unison said, "Pinkie Pie."

"So," began Will," you want to see if anything else carried over?"

"Like if my magical powers did?"

"Exactly."

"Yea, but first we shower. I reek."

Will agreed by sniffing his armpit and laughing. Fifteen minutes, and a fresh change of clothes, later we headed out of our dorm room into the quad area on our floor. We decided we would go to a nearby field so we don't cause any "accidental" damage. We got into my van and drove out to the field. By the time we got out there it was a little after two in the afternoon. We settled in to center of the field for the test.

"Ok, so what are you going to try first?"

"Well, I did some reading on elemental based magic at Twilight's house. I want to try an ice spell first."

"Cool stuff there man."

I ignored the complete lack funny in that pun. "Stand back," I said.

I began to focus my mind, yet I didn't feel a surge of energy threw me like in Equestria. I focused harder on changing the moister particles around me. All of sudden I felt a chill run up my spine. I opened my eyes keeping my mind on the image of an ice spike forming in front of me. Slowly yet surely small ice particles began to form in front of me and mold together. They started to form a snowball instead of an ice spike. Suddenly the chilling energy I was felling disappeared and the snowball fell to the ground with a plop.

"Well, that was, sorta nice," said Will reassuringly.

"It was suppose to be an ice spike." I moaned out.

"Oh."

"It's not your fault. It's hot, the particles probably couldn't freeze fast enough."

"Well, are you going to try something else?" Will asked trying to change from my failure.

"I was good with first based spell," I replied, "I'll try one of those."

"Good idea, try one you familiar with."

"Ok, stand back again. Things could get very hot very quickly."

Will took a few steps back as I focused on making a flame. I felt a familiar energy rush through me, yet it was different. It didn't feel as strong as it as in Equestria. I formed a small ball of fire in my palm, yet it was an reddish-orange color, not the usual purple I would conjure. I shot the flame forward only to have it evaporate a few feet ahead of me. It was right then that I knew why I couldn't cast powerful magic on Earth.

"That was awesome, sorta pathetic, yet fucking awesome!" Shouted Will.

"Not like what I could do in Equestria."

"Yea, compared to what you told me that was really weak looking."

"I think I know why too. Equestria is abundant with magical energy thanks to the vast amount of magic users that live there, yet on Earth magic is considered a trick of illusions more than anything else. I believe that I have to become more adapt here on Earth to become a more powerful mage." I explained.

"That make sense, if you think about it," replied Will, "yet how come you were able to cast anything at all if our world is like that?"

"Probably because the tales of magic being major key elements in stories wasn't all necessarily made up. I can still feel a slight magical aura in the air but it's almost nonexistent."

"Ok, so magic is a bust?"

"For now, but I'll keep trying."

"Cool."

Right then our stomachs growled in hunger. We looked at each other an laughed. We had completely forgot about breakfast and lunch and our stomachs were letting us know.

"Let's go get some food." I suggested.

"Ok, I'll buy."

"You sure Will?"

"Yea, you're driving and plus you being able to use genuine magic deserves some victory food."

"That makes sense. Thanks."

We climbed back into the van and drove to the nearest fast food joint, which just happened to be an in-and-out. The best thing about moving out to the west for college had to be this place. Amazing burgers, fries, and shakes for less then ten bucks a piece. It was the life of a college guys who had a little extra to spend. We got our burgers and sucked up our food. Neither one of us saying a word as we ate. After the food was gone, which took less than five minutes to do, we climbed back into the car. It was about 3:30 at this time and we decided to hang about downtown for a while.

"Hey," I said, "I just realized that I need new clothes. I'm probably not going to fit in any other of my clothes."

"Yea, I was wondering that. How do you fit in those clothes so well after dropping so much weight anyways?"

"You know I'm not sure." I saw the point he was making and had no clue as to why they fit. I took another good look over my clothes and gasped.

"Dude, you know how I said Rarity made me some outfits back in Equestria?"

"Yea, why?"

"We're going back tot he dorm really fast, I have to check on something."

Will just looked puzzled at what I was doing. We got back to the dorm in no time and I rushed up to our room. Will walked in on me as I started to rip apart my dresser drawer by drawer. Then I saw them on the third on down. The outfits Rarity made me when I was in Equestria.

"Will, take a look at this."

He peeked into the drawer and couldn't tell what I was freaking out about. "It's just a bunch of clothes, so what."

"They don't have any brand name tags on them or sizes yet they fit my newly formed Equestrian body perfectly." I said, "they're the clothing Rarity made me."

"How is that possible?" He asked, "Shouldn't they be in the dresser at Twilights where you guys moved them too?"

"Yea, that's what I don't understand. The last thing I remember is falling asleep with one of my hands on the dresser."

"Dylan, you don't think they came with you, do you?"

"I don't know, but that would explain why I was clothed the first time I went to Equestria."

"When you go to bed tonight, try taking something with you. Like you're I-pod of something."

"I was thinking more along the lines of my bow and arrows. I could improve my archery while over there."

"You really think it's ok to take a weapon to Equestria?"

"Well," I said, "I don't know. I just have a feeling in the back of my head that I might need them."

"Ok, whatever you think is ok," Will said shrugging, "it's not like I can go to Equestria or anything."

Laughing as I spoke, "Yea, I guess not."

"Now, can we hit town?"

"Sure, lets go."

We left the dorm and headed downtown. While there we meet up with some friends and went to the movies. Afterwards we got a bite to eat and just hung out walking from place to place. We continued on like this till about nine-ish, then we decided to head back to the dorm. We arrived at the dorm at about 9:30.

"So, you think you're going back tonight?"

"Yea, most likely," I said, "I think I'm going to try to bring my I-pod with me tonight."

"Well, good luck with that, and goodnight."

"Night Will."

Will passed out in a manner of seconds as I finished getting prepped for my day in Equestria. I grabbed my bow and ten arrows along with my I-pod. I set myself down on my bed and started to fall asleep, but still making sure that I had a hand on my stuff. Slowly sleep took over my body and I was producing some z's.


-------------------------

"Spike wake up Dylan!" I heard Twilight yelling behind my door, "It's already nine and we have to get moving."

"I'm up Twilight!" I shouted so she could here me.

"Oh good, we're heading over to Sugarcube Corner, meet us there when you finish getting ready."

"Sure can do."

I had fully woken up now, thank the gods I'm a morning person. As I looked about the room I noticed something on the dresser. It was my I-pod. It had actually come over with me. "Then that means...Ah ha!" I found my bow and quiver of arrows underneath my bed. how my items were in such ideal location I can't figure out, but what the hay, they were here.

I washed myself off and got ready. Before walking out of the door I threw  the bow over my back and attached my quiver to a belt lace thing my shorts had. I made my way to Sugarcube Corner actually saying hello to some ponies along the way. I meet up with the pony that everyone calls Dr. Whooves and tried to make small talk with him. Before I could say anything though he said, "By Celestia!" and ran off. After a few minutes of meet and greet I finally arrived at the Corner and walked in, only to be greeted by Mrs. Cake.

"Oh, Dylan dear, you just missed Twilight and them. They went to Sweet Apple Acres to fetch me some apples for a dish I am making. They told me to send you there."

"Thank you Mrs. Cake."

I left the Corner and headed towards the farm. As I approached the front gate I saw Twilight, Spike, Applejack, and Pinkie walking up from the other side.

"Good morning." I yelled out.

"Good morning' sugarcube," Applejack replied "what's that yah got there on yah back?"

"Oh this, it's a bow and these are arrows." I showed her the quiver at my waste.

"What's it for?" Asked Twilight eyes open eager to learn.

"I'll show you. Applejack, is there any old tree I could use?"

"Well sure there is," she replied, "there's one over by the clubhouse, we can use that."

"Cool, lead the way."

Applejack lead us to an old tree that was about a two minute walk form the gate. I took my bow off my back and notched an arrow. I aimed at the tree and pulled back the string. Then I stopped, and slowly released unstrung the arrow.

"Applejack, can I use an apple?"

"Well, sure why?"

"Just watch, and why do you ponies ask so many questions?"

I took and apple and placed in on a little indent in the tree. I walked to about fifty yards away from the tree, then turned to face it. I re-notched the arrow and pulled it back ready to fire. I aimed the arrow at the apple and released. The bow sung and chord as the arrow flew off strait into the apple. I turned to the gapping ponies and bowed.

"That was super cool mister," said a new voice, "what's it called?"

I turned to see a orange, purple maned pegasus filly standing behind me with open eyes. Behind her stood a white, purple maned unicorn filly with a yellow, red maned filly that wore a large red bow behind her.

"It's called archery, and my name is Dylan not mister."

"Cool, well I'm Scootaloo, this here is Sweetie Bell and Applebloom." she said rather proudly, "And we are..."

"THE CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS!" they shouted unison as they jumped into the air.

-------------------------

Yea, another chapter done, and the longest yet. I promise they will get longer from now on. As always I will take suggestion, fix any errors that you guys find, and will answer an confusing questions you have of the story so far. 

Next chapter will be a heavy Crusader chapter for all you crusader lovers out there. I will say now though that there will be many surprises and twists in the upcoming chapters because I finally figured out what this will turn into. My lips are sealed for now though, so keep reading to find out.
> A Day Crusading
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	"The Cutie Mark Crusaders huh," I said calmly, "I'm guessing by your name you are looking for your cutie marks." I already knew that, but these three didn't. I was playing along just to be safe.

"Yea, we do awesome stuff to try to earn our cutie marks," piped up Scootaloo.

"But we ain't got em yet." said a defeated Applebloom.

"Don't worry girls, it will come to you naturally one day."

"Thanks Twilight, but ah don't think we'll ever get our cutie marks."

An idea popped into my head at that moment. "Hey Twilight, how about I hang out with the Crusaders today and try to help them figure out their talents?"

"Great idea Dylan!" Exclaimed Twilight. "Maybe you can finally convince them how blind they are to their real talents," she whispered to me, "and end their silly antics."

Wow, never would have believed Twilight thought that way about them. "Ok," I whispered back, "I'll see what I can do."

"Good, now have fun you four."

"And keep watch over mah sis will yah." Added in Applejack.

"Ok, see you all later, and I will Applejack." I said while waving to them goodbye. Turning to the crusaders I saw wonder and curiosity in their eyes. Ugh, here we go again.

"So, what kind ah creature are yah anyhow?" Asked Applebloom.

"Well, I'm what would be called a human." Seeing that each crusader was going to open their mouths I continued, "before you ask, no I am not from Equestria, I came here while dreaming in my own world one night and flip-flop between them when I sleep yada yada."

Seeing as their mouths firmly shut after that I grinned knowing that I had foreseen the overly asked question. "So, what were you all planning to do today anyhow?"

"Well," started Scootaloo, "we were going to try to give applebucking another try, but I wanna learn that thing you were doing earlier. It look pretty cool, though not as cool as Rainbow Dash."

"Oh, you mean my archery?"

"Yea that!"

"I don't know if ponies are even able to do it."

"Well why the hay not?" asked Applebloom.

"Well, maybe it's because we don't have fingers like him or Spike," chimed in Sweetie Bell.

"Oh, ah wasn't thinking about that."

"Well, can you show us again?"

"Sure Scootaloo, do you mind setting up a target for me?"

"No problem!"

Scootaloo zipped over to the nearest apple tree and grabbed an apple from the lowest branch. She zipped over the the dead tree I was shooting at earlier and placed the apple on top. Damn, she could move fast. I positioned myself about a hundred yards away.

"Girls, I would stand behind me in case the arrow goes off corse."

The fillies shuffled behind me peeking around at what i was about to do. I notched an arrow and took aim. Releasing I string, the arrow flew straight and true hitting it's mark dead center.

"Wow," the three fillies behind me said in unison.

"It wasn't that impressive, was it."

"That was awesome!" Scootaloo said. "How'd you hit such a small target from so far way?"

"It was nothing really, I've just been doing this a long time."

"Have yah eva tried hitting ah moving target?" asked Applebloom.

"Yea, I can do that."

As soon as i spoke those words Scootaloo was gone and back in a second with another apple in her hand. Great, now I had to show them this too.

"Ok, I'll do it once, but then we got to work on getting your cutie marks. Unless you decided not to get them at all."

"Oh no, we still want to get our cutie marks," said Sweetie Bell, "but we just want to see your talents first."

"Ok." I better not tell them about my newfound ability with magic.

"Hey Scoots, you better let me throw that apple," said Applebloom, "ah got a better arm than you."

"Fine, here." Scootaloo look a little disappointed, but she saw Applebloom's point.

"Ok, Applebloom, throw when I say go ok."

"Ok!"

I got my arrow notched and ready. "Ok. GO!" Applebloom threw the apple with all her might. Dang, she had an arm that would put a major league baseball outfielder to shame. I kept my sight on the apple, and right when it was about to hit the peak of it's rise I let the arrow lose. The arrow sailed through the air and hit it's target once more, bringing another wow from the three fillies behind me.

"You're really good at that," said Sweetie Bell, "I bet that if you were a pony, your talent would be in archery."

"Or magic if I was a unicorn," I thought to myself.

"Wait here while I retrieve my arrows." I walked over to the dead tree and pulled my two arrows from the apples. I had to walk around a little bit to find the third one, but I eventually found in stuck in the side of an apple tree. I walked back over to the Crusaders to see them huddled up in a circle.

"So, um, what all you all talking 'bout?"

Noticing that I was back their little circle quickly formed into a half-circle with six eyes looking strait at me. 

"We decided we're gonna show yah our clubhouse." Said Applebloom.

"Yea, just in case you ever want to find us again." Added Scootaloo.

"We're usually there everyday unless we're out trying to earn our cutie marks." Sweetie Bell ended.

"I'd love to see your clubhouse."

"Ok, follow us then." Said Applebloom.

We walked in what in what I presumed was the direction South. After walking a little bit, and stumbling through some bushes, I saw the clubhouse. It was a lot more cool looking in person than threw a television screen. Yet something seemed off. It seemed bigger and had more stuff than when I've seen it on the show. A tire swing hanging from one of the corners, and what looked like a launch pad with rings in a rainbow pattern.

"Hey, Applebloom, how long have you guys had this clubhouse for?"

"Oh, about three years now."

"Wait, it's been three years since you've been trying to get your cutie marks?"

"Well, yeah, ah suppose so."

Ok, that officially blew my mind. The series was only on the air for two years in my world. I have to find out more about this pronto.

"Ok, so I really need to know, how old are all of you."

"Well, I'm ten!" Said Scootaloo.

"I'm also ten." Added Sweetie Bell.

"I'm the oldest at eleven." Ended Applebloom

"Yea, by like, two weeks," said Scootaloo huffing.

"I guessing then that fillies usually get their cutie marks around the age of seven to eight then."

"That's right," answered Sweetie Bell, "but we haven't gotten ours yet. Twilight just says that our we haven't truly discovered our talents but that we have some. I think she's just trying to get our hopes up for nothing." Sweetie Bell deflated a little after she stooped talking, along with the other two Crusaders.

"Man," I thought, "I know what their talents should be just be watching the show. I also know that they never believe that that's their talent if someone tells them." I face palmed from my thoughts on this dilemma, getting the attention of the crusaders.

"What was the facehoof, ah I mean palm, for?" Asked Scootaloo.

"Oh, nothing," I answered smiling, "how about you show me that clubhouse now?"

We walked up into the clubroom and I gasped. It was really organized and spacious on the inside. I didn't even have to duck at all, except when walking through the door.

"So, what's the landing area for?" I asked even though I could guess what it was for.

Scootaloo's eyes got really big and started to sparkle. Applebloom and Sweetie Bell just facehoofed.

"That's for the greatest flyer in all of Equestria!" started a very enthusiastic Scootaloo, "Rainbow the only pegasus to ever to do a sonic rainboom. We hold a Rainbow Dash fan-club here every week just to talk about how awesome she is. Sometimes she drops by to talk to us, and that why the landing is there."

"Ok. So, now that i've seen your clubhouse, what were your plans on getting your cutie marks. Maybe I could help."

Applebloom was the first to speak up. "We were going to help out with the animals over at Fluttershy's and see if we could get a veterinarian cutie marks."

I let out a mental sigh of relief. Thank the gods we're not doing some crazy thing that would of involved some crazy task like sky diving or something. Wait, Fluttershy's, I could test out that spell I was reading about last night.

"Does Fluttershy know about this?"

"Yes, she does," answered Sweetie Bell, "I talked to her about it a few day ago, and she reminded me this morning."

"Ok then. Then how about I show you something else I can do that will knock your manes off?"

I took the six bulging eyes of wonder as a yes. "Ok, let's go outside and we can be at Fluttershy's in a heartbeat."

We walked outside of the clubhouse into a the small clearing before it. "Ok, gather around me." I pictured a mental image of Fluttershy's cottage with the four of us in front of it in my mind before raising my hands. Slowly, a blue energy wrapped around the three fillies and myself. I felt a sudden jolt and opened my eyes. We were outside of Fluttershy's cottage, just as I pictured it.

"Did we just teleport?" asked a dumbfounded Applebloom, "From the farm?"

"Uh, yea, is it that big of a deal? I though Twilight has teleports you guys around before."

"Well, sure she has, but never that far before." Sweetie Bell answered, "I don't think I've seen anypony teleport that far."

"It wasn't all that far, only about a mile or so, right?"

"That was AWESOME!" Scootaloo shouted completely ignoring my question.

"A mile is quick a distance," Sweetie Bell answered me after Scootaloo's interruption, "especially when teleporting four ponies."

"Don't you mean three fillies and a human?" I asked.

"Oh, right."

"Well hello everpony," came a sudden entrance from Fluttershy, "I glad to see that you three made it. Come along now, we have a lot to do."

I let out a little cough to let Fluttershy know that I was there too.

"Oh, um, I'm sorry Dylan. I didn't notice you there."

"It's ok Fluttershy."

"Oh, please don't be mad."

"I'm not mad." Seriously, who could be mad at a face like that.

"Ok then," Fluttershy said finally coming out of her shy shell, "so, what are you doing here anyways?"

"He's here to help us get our cutie marks!" Answered Scootaloo for me. "Now lets go!"

"CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS VETERINARIANS!" The three fillies said in unison before bolting off to the rear of Fluttershy's cottage.

"Oh, dear, wait for me girls."

"This is going to be a long day."

Several Hours Later

"That, was, um, good girls."

"But we didn't earn our cutie marks." Said a defeat Sweetie Bell.

"Maybe taking care of animals, or wrestling them," I looked strait at Scootaloo on that one, "isn't your thing."

"Then what is?"

"I don't know, but it's late, and you three should be getting home."

"Do we have too?" Asked Applebloom as she yawned.

"That yawn answers your question. Come along now I'll teleport you all back home."

"Ok." The three said in unison, yet Scootaloo had a weird look on her face.

We said our goodbyes and thanks to Fluttershy for dealing with us. I first teleported to the Boutique to drop off Sweetie bell. As soon as we appeared Rarity ran outside to collect her sister and ask me about my teleportation. I told her it was just another spell I picked up. We said out goodbyes to them before I teleported Applebloom and Scootaloo back to the barn. Applejack was waiting for us and asked us how the animals went. Applebloom answered that it didn't go so well.

As Applebloom and Applejack were talking Scootaloo came up to me and whispered, "can you just teleport me back to the clubhouse?"

"Sure," I whispered back. Now I know why Scootaloo had the weird look on her face before. I decided I would talk to her about it back at the clubhouse.

We said out goodbyes to the apple family and I teleported back to the clubhouse.

"Thanks," Scootaloo said, "I don't want my friends to worry about me."

"What's wrong," I asked even though I knew the answer, "don't want to go home quiet yet?"

"That's just it, I don't have a home to go to."

Bam, it hit me that all those fan-fictions weren't just fully made up. Scootaloo didn't really have a home.

"Were do you sleep at night?"

"In the clubhouse."

"Isn't it cold though?"

"Not really."

"Aren't you lonely?"

"No."

"Really."

"No, I'm not lonely."

"Really Scootaloo, you can't fool me."

"Ok, yes, it is." Scootaloo started to cry.

I sat down next to her and wrapped an arm around her next. "I'm sorry I didn't mean to make you cry."

"It's ok," she said through her tears.

"Come here." She scooted in closer and I tighten my grip around her. "If you want I can camp out here with you tonight if you want. Keep you some company."

Her eyes sprang open at my offer. "Really?" She asked, "You would do that even though we just met today?"

"Yea, I would," I said looking strait into her eyes letting her know I was serious. "I can't let you stay here by yourself. I just tell Twilight that I'm going to try to help you get a camping cutie mark or something like that."

"YEA!" She seemed a lot happier than just a minute ago.

"I'll be right back ok."

"Ok"

I teleported to the library, scaring Twilight silly that I could. I let her know what was going on and it didn't seem like she suspected a thing. I gathered some clothing, two warm blankets, and some other camping stuff that Twilight provided. I said my goodnight and goodbyes and was back at the clubhouse.

"That was fast," commented Scootaloo on my quick journey.

"I told you, now lets get some sleep. I'm tired."

"Fine by me."

We walked up into the clubhouse. Scootaloo light the lantern that was in the room as I readied the beds.

"Um, if it's ok, can I sleep with you?" Scootaloo asked.

I was taken back by this, "Uh, ok, but why?"

"I haven't fallen asleep for a while know that someone was there with me. I just want to know you won't leave me."

Ok, that melted, broke, and destroyed my heart with sadness I just couldn't say no. "Ok, come on."

Scootaloo climbed into the same bed but under her sheet. I acted as fatherly as possible making it seem a lot less awkward with me. I turned off the lantern and we lied their in darkness. Then it hit me.

"Hey, Scootaloo."

"Yea."

"Is this the reason you follow Rainbow Dash so much. Is that you see your friends with sisters and you want one too?"

There was a brief silence before she answered.

"Yea, I just want to know that I can go to somepony that would comfort me like Rarity to Sweetie Bell, or Applejack to Applebloom."

"You want me to talk to Dash for you tomorrow. Knowing her she might be thrilled to have you.

"Really, you would do that for me?"

"Yea, what are friends for?"

"Thanks Dylan." That was the last thing Scootaloo said before falling asleep.

I stayed up for about another ten minutes or so thinking while feeling the warmth and breathing of the pony beside me. I decided that I would see Dash first thing in the morning and talk to her so I could get back to Scootaloo before the day was out. After my thinking I slowly drifted to sleep, calmed by the regular breathing of Scootaloo. My eyes shut and the world tuned out around me, signaling my return to Earth of the night.

-------------------

Sorry it's later then I posted before. I got caught up on the final part with writer's block so it got to my editor a little later than I hoped. Before anyone asks, no, nothing will happen between Scootaloo and me. I am just acting as the fatherly figure she truly deserves. Yes, I know this chapter might seem a little rushed, but hey, if I really wanted to put everything in that I truly wanted to, it would have been about 4 times in length. It was also cut down because of the later chapter vote, so expect more from the Crusaders later in the story, a lot more.

Once again, even though I now have an editor, and he agreed with the cutting down, I encourage you all to look for any errors we didn't catch. Also, the chapters are getting steady longer if you haven't noticed and I don't think that will change anytime soon. Hope you all enjoyed the chapter and don't forget to comment. I LOVE THE FEEDBACK!
> A Helping Hoof
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	"Ah, what a day," I said while I woke up back in the human world. I took a quick look at my clock and saw it was about 10:00. I remembered that it was Sunday and took a look over at Will's bed. It was empty, but I expected that. Will worked on Sundays at the local frozen yogurt shop. I thought about visiting him but shook it off.

"Yo, Dylan, you up man?" Came a voice from outside of my door.

"Yea, give me sec so I can get dressed," I replied. I could tell it was my friend Trevor by the voice. He is also the only other brony on our floor.

A few moments later I was out the door and sat down in the chair next to Trevor who was gaming away on Battlefield 3. As I watched he flew a jet strait into a building.

"Well, fuck." He said.

"Man, for a person who is major to be a pilot, you suck."

"Ha, ha very funny. You know I'm getting my training for helicopters, not jets."

"Yea, I know."

"So, what's this whole thing going on with the world jumping?" Trevor asked without even turning his head from the screen.

"Will told you about it."

"Yea, so spill the beans. Is Equestria is cool as what we see on tv?"

"No." That made him turn his head in shock. "It's twenty percent cooler and more awesome."

"Sweet, also nice use of Dash."

"Thanks, and she really says it too."

"That's cool." Trevor had gone back to gaming mode letting his mind answer in auto pilot.

I watched him play for a little bit until the game ended. He turned off the Xbox, which are twenty percent cooler than playstations, and turned face me.

"Ok, now tell me everything." Trevor demanded.

The process I did with Will happened all over again, except I added what had happened last night when I went to sleep. Trevor seemed to absorb everything I said, and almost cried when I told him about Scootaloo. Trevor's favorite pony was Scootaloo, even more than the mane six.

"She really doesn't have a home?" He asked.

"Yea, but that's going to change come tonight, or tomorrow for Equestria."

"It better," he sounded almost threatening, "because by god if you fail this, I will hurt you."

"Dude, chill out, I got this. Scoots gonna have a home by the time I'm done."

"Good. Now, I'm starved, you wanna get lunch?"

I looked at the time and facepalmed. Five hours had passed. Why in Zeus's name do I take so long to explain my visits. At least I knew I wouldn't have to do it again for a while, if at all.

"Sure, you what do you want?"

"Lets get some burgers, then go harass Will for the remainder of his shift."

"Oh yea," I said smirking. Not only do I get more burgers, Will's going to have to obey my outrageous order.

Trevor and I left the dorm and went strait for In-and-Out. After we finished we headed over to the yogurt place and harassed Will for a while. Once Will got off work we headed to the movies. On the way I briefed Will on what happened after we went to bed, also bringing him near tears. After the movies it was about seven so we hit downtown for a bit. After about an hour we got bored and headed back to the dorm. We jumped on the Xbox till about ten when I decided to head to bed.

"Remember, get Scootaloo a home or there will be pain," Trevor reminded me.

"I know, I know. Night guys."

"Night," they said in unison, eyes still stuck on the screen.

I threw off my shit, too lazy to change into my pajamas, and fell on my bed. Sleep almost instantly took me over, letting my transportation to Equestria begin.

-------------------------------------------------------

I awoke with a slight light coming threw the curtains. It took me a second to get my mind strait and remember where I had spent the night. I heard some snoring and looked over to find Scootaloo fast asleep. Daaawww. She looked so cute. I slowly got out of the makeshift bed as to not wake her up. I failed horribly.

"Uh," said a just woken up Scootaloo,"what time is it."

"I don't know." I looked over at the clock. It ready 8:30. "It's about 8:30 Scootaloo."

"Oh, ok..."

Scootaloo proceeded to jump right out of bed in a panic and started to clean up the clubhouse.

"Hey, hey, what's the rush?"

"I have school today and it starts in thirty minutes!" Said a panicking Scootaloo, "It's a twenty minute walk from here!"

"Uh, you know I can just teleport you there if you want."

Scootaloo stopped in her tracks and looked right at me. "Really?" she asked with the cutest face I have ever seen.

"Yea, I'll also be closer to Rainbow Dash's home too."

"You're really going to ask her for me?" Scootaloo seemed a little surprised that I was following through on my promise.

"Of course I am," I replied, "I wouldn't leave a friend in need now."

Scootaloo proceeded to tackle me with a hug saying a million thank you a minute. After about two minutes of tis she got off me and we finished cleaning the clubhouse. Afterwards we walked outside and I started the teleportation spell.

"You do know where we have to go right?"

"Yea, Twilight showed me on the tour."

"Ok," Scootaloo replied happily.

Just then I completed the spell. Next thing I knew we where outside of an schoolhouse. I could see several different colored fillies and colts walking up. I could pick out Applebloom and Sweetie Bell almost instantly. I also could pick out Snip, Snails, Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara, along with Cherilee leading the group. When the group saw me everypony gasped except Applebloom, Sweetie Bell, and Cherilee. Thank the gods that I met Cherilee at my welcome party.

"Well howdy there Dylan, and Scootaloo," greeted Applebloom.

"Hey Applebloom, Sweetie Bell," I replied, "and hello again Miss Cherilee."

"Well hello Dylan," Cherilee replied, "but you don't have to call me miss, Cherilee is fine."

"Ok then Cherilee," I said. She grinned at my drop of formal tone.

I took a look at the fellow young ponies. A lot of them were cowering in fear, except for Snips and Snails who looked at me with wonder. It understood why they were afraid, I mean I was a new, very big creature that just appeared out of nowhere.

"Oh, my little ponies," started Cherilee when she noticed the ponies fears, "no need to be afraid, Dylan here is perfectly safe. Ah, Dylan, I just thought, why don't you stay for a while as a special guest and introduce yourself to everypony."

I was delighted with the offer. "Sure," I replied, "I have some free time. I would love too."

"That's so good to here. Ok my little ponies, everyone inside for a special presentation!"

The ponies, now overcoming their fear, walked into the schoolhouse. I followed after everypony and waited till the room became quiet. Then I began to talk about myself, where I came from, How I arrived in Equestria so on and so on. I summarized a lot of it to keep it short, but then the questions happened. Most where just personal questions like do you like anypony, where do you live, yada yada. There was one that piked my interest.

"If you're so powerful as you say," the bratty little Diamond Tiara said, "then how about you show us."

"If that's what you want," I said. I turned to Cherilee, "is that ok with you?"

"Oh yes!" She replied, "alright everypony, outside for a demonstration."

The ponies marched outside. As I was leaving the room I looked at the clock and saw that an hour had passed. "Really," I thought, "it seems to have been a much longer time than that. Whatever."

We went to a little clearing near the school where the ponies gathered around me in a half circle with eyes of wonder staring at me. That creeped me out just a little bit, but I regained my composure quickly. I decided that I was going to do some fancy ice magic along with my iron punch.

"Ok, who here has seen ice magic before?" All I got back was blank stares. "I'm guessing that's a no, well then, you're all in for a special treat."

I focused my mind and the air began to chill. I stuck my arms out and a wave of ice shot forward. I slowly made a pillar of ice about three feet thick and eight feet tall. I heard oh's and aw's behind.

"That doesn't look so special," I heard Tiara whisper behind me.

"Not so special huh?" I asked looking over my shoulder. That made Tiara jump back. Ah, sweet revenge for the Crusaders, they couldn't stop laughing.

I finished the ice pillar. I walked up and kicked the thing with all my strength just to test how strong it was. Judging on how my knee hurt after the kick, and there where no cracks, gave the ponies and me a good idea on it's toughness. I recreated the iron reinforcement spell on my arm an punched the pillar. It instantly shattered into pieces, sprinkling the school ponies with little ice-flakes.

"So, Tiara," I said, "that enough proof?"

All she did was nod with an open jaw from my pure awesomeness. Once more the Crusaders busted out laughing at her expression. Score, two Dylan, zero the annoying brat.

"Now, if you excuse me, I have some prior plans that I must attend to." I gave a wink to Scootaloo and she winked back.

"Thank you for stopping by Dylan," Cherilee said, "now my little ponies, say goodbye to Dylan."

The group said goodbye as I walked away. I turned an waved goodbye then refocused on my mission. I had to find Rainbow Dash pronto. I decided to talk to Pinkie because I had a feeling that she knew where Dash might be. It took me a few minutes to get to Sugarcube Corner. Luckily Pinkie was outside at the moment.

"Hey Pinkie, do you have a moment?"

"Well sure Dylan. What can Autie Pinkie Pie help you with?"

"I'm looking for Rainbow Dash, seen her?"

"Oh, Dashie went of in that direction." Pinkie pointed her hoof toward Twilight's library.

"Thanks Pinkie."

"No problem, come back when your done and order a tasty-wasty treat ok!"

"Ok, I will."

I set off to the library. It then hit me that I could teleport. I teleported to the library and knocked on the door.

"One moment," I heard Spike say through the door.

"Spike, it's Dylan."

The door suddenly swung open at in ingodly speed. "Hey Dylan," Spike said, "what'ca doing back here."

"Looking for Rainbow Dash. Is she here?"

"Yea, I'm here," Rainbow Dash yelled from the stairs. This was quickly followed by Twilight sushing her.

"Dash, you're in a library remember."

"Oh, yea. Sorry Twi."

I walked through the door and saw that Dash was reading a Daring-Do Novel. Why am I not surprised. I took a seat next to Dash and started my question.

"So, what'ca reading?"

"Just the most awesome novel series ever."

"Which is?"

"The Adventures of Daring-Do."

"Cool, cool. Do you have a minute?"

"Yea, what do ya need?"

"Well, I have a proposal."

That got her wide eyed, along with Twilight. "Wait, wait, wait. We just met and I'm a pony and your a human. I just don't think this is going to work out."

I facepalmed. "Not that kind of proposal Dash. I mean an offer."

"OOOHH. What kind?"

I took a deep breath. "Do you know a filly named Scootaloo?"

As soon as I said the name Twilight, Spike, and Rainbow Dash all put down what they were doing and looked at me.

"Yea, she's like my biggest fan. Why do you ask?"

"Did you three know she's an orphanage?"

A gasp escaped the three. Ok, I thought that at least Spike knew.

"No, I didn't. Did you Twi?"

"No, not at all."

"I didn't know anything about it," added in Spike.

"Well, Dash, the reason I come to you today is because of that. Scootaloo has been trying to get your attention because she wants you to adopt her."

Yet another gasp was let out, but this time just by Rainbow Dash.

"That's not all," I turned to Twilight, "I found out last night that she has been sleeping in the Crusader's Clubhouse for the past three years."

That brought tears to Twilight's and Dash's eyes. I continued on returning my focus to Dash.

"Dash, I know you haven't know me very long, but can you please do this for me. I promised her that I would see to it that you would somehow adopt her. Just by looking at you're faces I can tell you weep for her, so how about Dash, will you adopt her?"

There was a brief pause of crying from Dash and Twilight. Even Spike started to tear up a little. Hell, even I teared up while I was talking. Finally Dash spoke.

"Yea, yea I'll adopt her," she said threw tears, "and maybe I can teach her a thing or two about flying. Finally earn here that cutie mark she's been hunting."

I proceeded to hug Rainbow Dash. "Thank you Dash, thank you," I said wiping the tears away.

After a few moments like this we broke apart, tears fully dry.

"I should go tell her right now."

"Dash, she's at school right now. I dropped her off, how about we wait a little bit."

"Ok, sure."

As soon as she finished speaking we heard a knock on the door. "Who is it?" asked Twilight.

"Twilight," came the most regal voice I had ever hear, "my prized pupil, will you be a dear and open the door."

Twilight was at the door in a heartbeat. As the door opened I saw a white alicorn with a mutli-colored pastel mane and tail standing outside. Just behind her I saw a smaller black alicorn with a mane that seemed to carry the stars. I realized that  the Princesses of Equestria were just outside.

"Come in Princess Celestia, Princess Luna," said Twilight as Rainbow and I just let our jaws hang loose.

"Thank you Twilight Sparkle," said Luna.

"Now," Celestia said gentle as she faced me, "I am Princes Celestia, and this is my little sister Princess Luna. You must be Dylan Sparks, the human. We have a lot to talk about."

-------------------------

Oh yea, the Princess. I guess Twilight sent a letter while I was sleeping, or maybe when I was with Scootaloo. Tune in for the next Chapter for epic shenanigans with the Princesses.

P.S. This was written as I wrote the last chapter, and was edited the same time. That's why it came out so fast. Hope you all enjoy and don't forget to comment.
> Princesses in Peril
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	"Um, hello." I was near speechless. Here, standing before me, were the most regal beings I had ever met. They seemed to radiate with power and authority.

"WE ARE HAPPY TO MEET SOMETHING AS, UNIQUE, AS YOURSELF," said Luna in the booming royal Canterlot voice. I, along with everypony except Celestia, covered their ears to prevent any eardrums bursting. Some books had fallen off their selves as she spoke.

"Now, sister dear, what did I tell you about talking in the royal Canterlot voice?" Asked Celestia.

"Thou shat not speak it when talking with friends," replied Luna a lot quieter, "or in small buildings."

"Very good sister."

I took a quick look around the room. I saw that Twilight, Dash, and Spike were as surprised and jaw dropped as I was from the surprise visit. At least I knew I wasn't alone with my shock. I focused my attention back to the sisters as Twilight began to speak.

"Princess," she started, "I thought you two were coming to visit tomorrow?"

"Well, yes beloved Twilight," Celestia said, "but we had a few free hours today, so we decided to visit a day early. Did I shock you too much?"

"No, not shock, just surprised," said a flabbergasted Twilight.

"Good, now," Celestia refocused on me, "what do we have here?"

"Great," I said out loud, "here we go again."

After about an hour, and a few cups of tea, I had explained in detail what I was, where I had come from, and how I arrived in Equestria. I was getting way to good at this, when I explained this to Twilight the first time it took almost four hours. At least I was able to keep the princess's attention the whole time. Dash on the other hand left because of how boring it was becoming along with the duties of clearing the sky.

"You come here through the powers of the night?" Asked Luna.

"Well, something like that. I never thought of it in depth. It is possible that some strange thing has brought me here."

"This is very interesting indeed," Luna muttered to herself just loud enough for us to hear.

"So, Dylan," Celestia said, "you said that you are able to bring things from your world into ours. May I see what you have brought."

"Oh yea, give me a second." I quickly walked back into the guest room to grab my bow, the arrows, and my I-pod. I walked back out and presented them. I got a few wide eyes from the ponies and dragon from my I-pod.

"What is that?" Spike asked.

"Oh, right, I haven't shown this to you two yet. In my world it's called and I-pod. It's a portable music player."

"May we partake in some of your musical tastes?" Luna asked.

"Sure." I browsed threw my musical library while being watched over my shoulder by curious ponies. I came to my favorite Beatles song, Blackbird. "Ah, here we are," I said as I started the song.

The music started to play, and the others in the room closed their eyes as they listened.

Blackbird singing in the dead of night.
Take these broken wings and learn to fly.
All your life, you were only waiting for this moment to arrive.

Blackbird singing in the dead of night.
Take these sunken eyes and learn to see.
All your life, you were only waiting for this moment to be free.
Blackbird fly, black bird fly, into the light of a dark black night.

As the song continued and came to an end, I could see tears forming in Celestia's eyes. Once the song was over, Celestia, along with Twilight, broke down crying. Luna seemed, content, with the song.

"So, how did you like it?" I asked.

"It, was, beautiful." Twilight said through tears.

"How do you not cry sister from the song's beauty?" Celestia asked.

"I see a meaning in it that doest displeases us." She replied.

I was a little taken back. "What meaning."

"The bird is afraid of the night, and looks for the light, light that my sister would provide."

"Oh," I replied deflated. "Well, that's not how I see it."

"How do you see it human?"

"I see it that even in the darkest depths of chaos and hopelessness, there is a light that can guide you back on the proper path of life. I think that you can relate to this very well Princess Luna."

Luna blushed and looked down at her hoofs in embarrassment. She knew I was talking of when she was Nightmare Moon. Twilight looked at me with a puzzled face.

"How did you know about Nightmare Moon? I don't remember ever going over it with you."

That put everpony's, and Spike's, focus on me on how I did know that. Great, explanation or lying time. I decided to tell the truth. I mean, telling them that they were a show for little girls on my planet couldn't be that bad. Wait, never, not a good idea, time to lie.

"Twilight, remember how when we first met I said I had visions of this world."

"Yes, I remember."

"I saw your battle with Nightmare Moon and Discord in these visions. Also how you and your friends are the elements of harmony."

Celestia and Luna both gasped at this.

"Twilight, how come you did not tell me of this," Celestia said almost barking.

"I forgot," Twilight said defensively.

"We are quite intrigued on these vision," Luna stated, "when did you encounter these visions of yours?"

"When I slept." Might as well keep lying, at least until I know the time is right to tell the truth.

Twilight changed to subject. "So, how does was this I-pod made?"

"Well, inside this case is a series of circuits and wires the help produced the image and audio. Other than that I'm not really sure."

"Well why aren't you?"

"I'm not studying to be an electrical engineer, someone who helps design these things.

"What is an, engineer?" Celestia asked.

"It's someone who designs, builds, or improves devices or machines in our world."

"I see," Twilight said all the while scribbling down notes.

"So, human, we wish to know if there is anything else that you excel at," Luna said, finally breaking out of her train of thought.

"How about I show you."

All I received were strange glances at what I meant. I shrugged before I motioned for them to come together. As they did I complied everything I had ever done that I was complimented on. Video games, archery, magic, design, and even singing flashed into my memory banks. Once I was ready I focused my memories transferring through my nervous systems. I touched each on the ponies on the forehead transferring my thoughts to them. After a few seconds with each I had transmitted my memories to them.

"How did you know how to do that?" Asked Twilight wide eyed.

"I'm. Not. Really. Sure," I said. As I finished my vision went dark. The last thing I heard was a cry from Twilight.

-------------------------

I could feel myself opening my eyes, yet all I could see was darkness before. A giant void of darkness engulfed me in every direction, and I was floating in the middle of it.

"Where am I?" I ask aloud. "I was just in the library when, oh that's right I passed out. That doesn't answer why I'm here, I should have returned to Earth.

I continued to debate with myself where I was for a few minutes until a bright light appeared on either side of me. They looked as if they were portals. I flew(?) over to the portals a was taken back from what I was seeing. One had an image of Earth, with me asleep in my dorm room while the other showed Twilight panicking over a passed out body. I scratched my head in confusion when I heard a cough behind me. I turned around to see Luna, Celestia, and two others I could tell were human, yet weren't.

"Um, where am I?" I asked.

"You are in the rift between dimensions," spoke the human that I could tell was male. He had power behind his voice, like when Luna spoke in the royal Canterlot voice.

"How did I get here?"

"We ourselves do not know the answer to that," said Luna, "we believe the fates are giving you a choice."

"The fates? Like from Greek mythology?"

"It is not simply a Myth young one," spoke the other human. I could tell from the softness of the voice that the human was a female.

"What do you mean?"

"Our worlds are more connected than you think," Celestia began, "when I said you were the first human to ever visit our land, I lied. You are the seventh. Each before you have been where you are now, in this very spot, but with different images behind you." She pointed a hoof at the portals. I took a quick glance over my shoulder before refocusing on the two princesses and humans.

"I'm guessing that I have to make a choice between the two?"

"Not yet Dylan," said the male human, "now you must simply decide either to return for the rest of the day to Equestria, or return to world for the rest of the night until tomorrow."

"I see, but how do you know my name?" I know it was a stupid question since I could tell that these weren't normal humans, but I needed to know.

"I know because my wife and I have been watching you on your travels. What I should be asking is, do you know who we are?"

My brain started to rev up trying to find the answer. "Can I have a hint?" I asked after a few moments of thinking.

The man laughed as he said, "Why not, but you only get one. Those who traditions and culture is lost, yet maintains it form in modern style. Our teaching and stories have turned to myths and legends, yet they are some of the most famous of your time. Many a boy and girl are fascinated by these tales, and they cross even between the dimensions. Think of who rule these things, and you shall find your answer."

Great, a riddle, this will be fun. "Do you mind if I take a second to figure this out."

"Not at all young one," the man spoke.

Once more my brain started to rev up. Traditions and culture is lost yet continues, lets see. That means it is something ancient, but there are things today that mimic it. I took a quick look at the people before me and noticed that they were tan, but the tan that I had. Myths and legends that are famous today. Well, that narrows it down to a few. The leaders of these myths. I took one more look at the people and then it hit me. That's why they don't look quiet human.

"I can see that you have found the answer," Luna said.

"Yes, I believe I have." I looked strait at the people, my thoughts fortifying what I believed every second that I stared. I took a deep breath of air and said, "You are Greek gods, but not just any. You are the leaders of them. I am humbled to be in your presence, Lord Zeus and Mistress Hera." I kneeled as I said the name of the Gods I worshipped.

"Stand Dylan," Hera spoke kindly, "you have answered well. We heard your prayers, an take to the deities of the land you wished to visit." She motioned to the princesses. "They accepted, especially Princess Luna, and thus you were given powers to travel between the lands as you slept."

The princesses began to blush, Luna a little more than Celestia. I was to shocked to say anything, not only did my dreams about going to Equestria became reality, the gods and goddesses that I worship are also real and arranged the whole thing. I slowly floated over the Luna and embraced her in a hug, making her blush even more. I then went to Celestia and repeated what I had done.

I floated back facing all four divine beings that were before me, the only words that escaped my throat were, "Thank you." As soon as the words left my mouth I began to cry from joy. As I did Luna and Celestia came to my side and embraced me. Zeus and Hera watched the scene unfold with smiles on their faces. After I finished crying and the embrace ended, the princesses returned to their original positions.

"Dylan," began Zeus. My head shot up in attention to here what he had to say. "This is not free trade, their is a task ahead of you."

Celestia walked forward, on what I don't know, and cleared her voice. "Dylan, Equestria is in dire need of help. Help that only the strength of a human can provide. That is the reason you are here."

Luna joined her sister, "We need someone, not somepony, to face the threat that falls on Equestria. Yet we fear that you might not be enough. We have looked for other potential candidates, yet were surprised on who our friends had found." She looked over her shoulder to the Greeks.

Zeus sighed before looking me in the eyes, "Dylan, the ones that need to help are you're friends. Your power seems to have rubbed off on them."

"Exactly who of my friends?" I asked with a little worry in my voice.

"It is Will, Trevor, Andy, Luke, and Alex," Hera said.

My eyes went wide. My closest friends, two of which who weren't even true bronies. The ones who i could trust with my life. As I regained my senses, I realized what was being asked of me, I had to recruit my friends.

"Before I do anything rash," I began, "what are my friends and I going to be facing?"

"A long, forgotten evil has begun to stir," said Celestia, "one that was sealed when my Sister and I fought with six humans long ago."

"You might know of this evil," said Zeus, "for it has threatened our world before."

"It's a titan isn't it," I said without skipping a beat. The four deities looked shocked that I knew what the treat was so fast.

"Yes, but not just any," said Hera, "it is the one who helped the humans survive, one that was thought to be a kind, one who helped us until his freedom when he turned the humans against us."

"You don't mean Prometheus do you? The bringer of fire."

"Yes, the very same," said Luna, "that is why we need your help. He trusts humans, and we do not wish for combat. Not only you and your friends will face this treat, but also the bearers of harmony. Prometheus has grown in power over the past thousands of years, and you will need their help."

"I see. Can I have a moment to think about it, alone. I will decide let you know as soon as I can princesses. Zeus, Hera, it was an honor meeting you, but I wish to be left alone to my thoughts."

"We see, and it was a pleasure," said Zeus, "until me meet again." With that Zeus and Hera disappeared into nothing.

"We will see you in Equestria when you have made up your mind," said Celestia kindly.

"Sister, I shall stay with Twilight Sparkle until Dylan wakes up to hear his answer."

"Yes, I know sister. Dylan, we will see you soon."

With that I was left alone with my thoughts. After about six hours of thinking, planning, and contemplating my answer was made, and I walk through the according portal.

------------------------

Equestria, 16 hours after passing out.

"Twilight, Twilight," Spike shouted, "I think he's coming around!"

"I'll be right there Spike," Twilight yelled back. She turned to Luna, "come on, let's see what his answer is."

I opened my eyes as I heard Twilight and Luna walk up the stairs. I realized that I was on Twilights bed, probably so Spike could keep an eye on me. I stretched out and let out a yawn. I sat up as Twilight and luna reached the top of the stairs.

"Do you have an answer?" Asked Luna.

I grinned a little at the question. "All I have to say is, I have some friends to go pick up. Want to come?"

-------------------------

Well, that was a dozy to write. With the writers block, the blood donation, and school, my mind was pretty fried. I think that this turned out a whole lot better than what it was going to be. I give shout outs to frieD 195, Kaosu, and Darkakorri for giving me support and ideas. Also no thanks to my editor who went on vacation forgetting leaving his computer behind, this this was almost all me, expect for the three above.

As you can see the action is about to pick up. Hope this clears up some questions about how I got to Equestria in the first place, along with bringing up some new ones. The chapter from now on will become a little more adventure and combat like, maybe, but nothing very heavy until the end. I've figured that I'll par up each of my friends with one of the mane six, who to who though, I don't know. It'll come to me sooner or later.

Once more, feel free to comment or leave suggestions. I'm looking forward to it. Until next, now where is that bed, I'm exhausted.
> Humans, Ponies, and Gods
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	"Tell us of what happened after we left you in the abyss between worlds," Luna said.

Judging by the way Twilight wasn't reacting, it seemed that Luna had explained what happened after I passed out. "Well," I began, "I decided to get my friends and went through my portal. I gathered them up, told them what was going on, and they accepted."

"Is that all?" Twilight asked a little deflated.

"No, some stuff happened when we went to sleep. We were back in the abyss and my gods presented themselves again. They re-explained the situation shed light on some other things. One of which are the creatures in the Everfree Forest and how they came to be there." That last bit got their attention.

"Please, shed light on this for even my sister and I do not know fully these facts," Luna said.

"The creatures in the forrest, such as the Hydra and Maticore, were once previously inhabitants of my world. They were slain a long time ago and their souls were carried through different dimensions until they reached this one. They ended up in the forest because it's the darkest place in Equestria."

Luna and Twilight took in every word I said. Spike looked a little confused at first but he slowly showed his understanding. After I finished he asked, "Well, what happened in the abyss?"

"Oh, right. Well after the gods presented themselves, they gave us some instructions to pass on. First is that the Elements of Harmony must come with us on our voyage."

"Well, we already knew that," Twilight said rolling her eyes.

"Yes, that was just a reminder I'm sure. Second is that you," I pointed to Twilight as I spoke, "are the leaders of the expedition." Twilight just shrugged, as if she guessed that part. "Third, is that each of my friends need to partner with your friends. They said we need to find which two match each other the best. Another thing is that Twilight and I are already paired up, probably because of the leadership thing."

"Will is be easy for your friends to partner with the elements?" Luna asked skeptically.

"I'm pretty sure I can match each up pretty well. Some have familiar traits with others. Back to the list though, fourth is that we will need weapons, not just for us, but the elements as well."

That got a pretty big gasp from the three. "Weapons? I've never handled a weapon before," said Twilight frantically, "I don't even think I can kill anything."

"Also, weapon crafting is not a common skill in Equestria Dylan," Luna said, "I don't believe a weapon has been crafted here since even before our banishment."

"Well lucky for you, the gods foresaw that as well. Which brings me to the fifth and final rule. Each of my friends, including myself, have been sponsored by a god. The goddesses have agreed to support each of the elements as well. After that I came through the portal to this world, since the I already knew what god was supporting me. The others stayed behind to sort that out."

Luna became wide eyed, while Twilight and Spike just had confused looks on their faces. "When you mean goddesses, do you mean the Princesses?" Asked Twilight.

Luna just shook her head for an answer. All this did was confuse Twilight even more.

"Twilight, do you even know what we're going to be facing?" I asked.

"None at all."

I facepalmed and looked at Luna. She just had that "I'm sorry, I forgot" look on her face. "Well then," I began, "I have some explaining to do.

After going over everything with Twilight and Spike, we had finally reached the edge of the Everfree Forest. At this point Twilight sent Spike off to gather the other mane six and bring them back to meet everyone. We decided to meet at Fluttershy's cottage. After he left I looked at Twilight.

"Twilight, you do know we can't bring him with us correct?"

She sighed as she said, "Yes, I know. It's to dangerous for a baby dragon to fight a creature such as this."

"Good. Do you know of anypony that could take care of him while we're away?"

"My sister and I will take him in," Luna said smiling, "if that is ok with you Twilight Sparkle."

Twilight immediately brightened up. "Yes, that would be perfect. He hasn't been to Canterlot for a while."

"Ok, lets go get my friends."

The three of us trekked into the woods onward to Zecora's hut. Zeus had told us that they would wake up near the place where Pinkie found me, about three-fourths the distance to Zecora's hut. As we began to get closer to the site, we slightly hear people talking. Soon the words were audible enough to make out what was being said.

"Dude, that's awesome!"

"I know right!"

I could tell that is was Will and Trevor talking. We walked into the clearing to see that they were the only two to wake up so far. They turn to see who it is and immediately smiles appear on their faces. Then I notice what they were talking about.

"Trevor, are those wings?" I asked stunned. I believe the other two ponies next to me had the same reaction.

"Yup," he said smiling, "Zeus decided to patron me. He told me I was going to get a surprise when I got here, but never expected this." 

"How can a human have wings?" Asked Luna, "not even the one who came before had any."

"No clue," replied Trevor, "Zeus just mention when I need to fly I could." As soon as he said that they disappeared. We weren't to startled, maybe because we knew magic had some part in it. 

"Well what about you Will? Who decided to back you up?" I asked.

"Oh that was easy," he said, "Hephaestus took me in. Apparently I have skills at weapon crafting that I don't know about."

"Ok," I said. It didn't surprise me much, his dad did craft the swords for local renaissance fairs. I finally noticed the others. "How come they're not awake yet?"

"Oh, we came through the portal before them," said Will, "I was first followed by Trevor here. I think the others are just being briefed on what's going on again."

As if on cue, Andy and Alex wake up. They both just took in the scene before them, with two ponies and all. Once it struck that the show their friends adore was in fact a real land, all they could do was shake their heads in disbelief. Not surprising since they weren't bronies like Will, Trevor, Luke and I.

"Morning sleepy heads, and welcome to Equestria," Will said smiling.

"We're really here, aren't we?" And asked.

"Well of course," Twilight said stepping forward.

The guys took a gasp when Twilight appeared, and another when Luna stepped forth. As they gaped in disbelief as the truth finally settled in that they were on the same boat as me now, Luke woke up.

"Ah, what a weird dream. I have to remind myself that..." He cut off short as he looked at his surrounding, then the ponies that stood before him. He proceeded to panic.

"Oh god, oh god, oh god. Where am I? Where am I?"

"Luke, dude, calm down," I said reassuringly, "you're in Equestria remember. I told you about this yesterday. Don't you remember the void?"

That seemed to calm him down a little bit. It wasn't until he saw Luna and Twilight again that he truly calmed down. After he calmed down I decided it was time to go.

"Come on guys," I said, "we have to get out of the forest. Everypony's waiting at Fluttershy's cottage for us."

The guys got to their feet and we began our walk back out of the forrest. Luke seemed a little down that we didn't go see Zecora, since she was his favorite pony. As we were walking a strange silence came over us. I decided to break this.

"So, late wakers," I said clearly addressing Luke, Andy, and Alex, "who ended up backing all of you guy's up?"

"Oh yea," said Alex, "I have Ares."

"I have Dionaysus," said Luke.

Andy wouldn't answer, though I already who backed him up. "You have Hades, don't you Andy." His simple nod gave the answer. "Why are you ashamed of that dude?" I asked. "Hades is the god of gems, the earth, and the underworld. You are now the soul person who can help us when we're in mortal danger, probably the most important on the team."

The others began to help me cheer him up. After a little bit he realized his role and was his normal smiling self again.  Will and Trevor told theirs, then all eyes turned to me, including the ponies.

"Well, who is supporting you?" asked Will.

"Yea, who?" Pipped in Andy.

I just simply stared at them in disbelief. Could they really not figure out who the last of the main six gods were."

"You guys really don't know?" They just shook their heads. I facepalmed, not believing my friends idiocy. "Guys, Poseidon is backing me."

Everyone's mouthes made a O shape, except for Andy.

"That makes sense," he said, "you were always on the water back at home growing up, and you're a great fisherman. It really doesn't surprise me that the god of the sea supports you."

Now only Trevor and Will looked shocked. I realized that there was no major water sources near our school to show them the only other set of skills that I had. As the shock finally wore off their faces, we were exiting the forest. As we did, I facepalmed again.

"What was that for?" Asked Twilight.

"Teleporting."

After I said the words both Twilight and Luna facehoofed. The guys just watched perplexed until they realized what I meant. Then they became dumbfounded. I turned to them.

"You guys ready for a treat?" I asked rhetorically.

After a quick *pop* and a bubble of purple and blue disappearing, we were outside of Fluttershy's cottage. My friends fell to the ground holding their stomachs and vomit back.

"You'll get us to it," I said shrugging.

"I don't think I'll ever get use to that," Alex replied.

"Me neither," Will added in.

"Whatever," I said, "at least we got here in one piece. Welcome to Fluttershy's home."

The guys just stood there maps ajar at what stood before them. I laughed a little remembering my first time here. Twilight, Luna and I got their attention again, right when we heard yelling in the distance.

"Twilight, Luna, Dylan," shouted Spike, "hey, I got everypony!"

Sure enough, the others, excluding Twilight and Fluttershy, were behind him. In less than a minute they were upon us, welcoming each of my friends to their world. I hardly noticed Fluttershy sneak out of her house to say hello to my friends. As the others we getting acquainted with each other Spike pulled me over.

"Hey, Dylan," he said, "Princess Celestia will be here in about an hour or so."

"You sent her a letter?"

"Yea, wanted to get updated on what was going on. She said to take everypony to the meadow."

"Ok yea." I turned to the others and cleared my voice for attention. "Ok, Princess Celestia will be here in about an hour, but there are some things that need to be done before that. She wants us to meet her in the meadow nearby, so lets head over there."

We all walked over to the meadow where I first casted magic. As we walked everyone/pony talked and got to know each other better. I lead ahead gathering my thoughts on what was about to happen. I was about to put my friends and ponies that I just met into grave danger. I know my friends can handle it, but the mane six. I hope they don't mind killing. Better keep Fluttershy away just in case though. these kinds of thoughts continued for a awhile until Luna snapped me back to reality. We were at the meadow, and everybody had gathered around me waiting for an explanation. I took a deep sigh prepping myself for the lecture.

"Ok, this is the deal. A titan from old time, Prometheus, went renegade after one of our ancient heroes Heraklus rescued him form an eternal torment." I went on of why he was put into the punishment for the ponies and to refresh my friends. "Well, after Heraklus freed him, he gathered an army of humans to fight the gods. He was quickly defeated and banished from our dimension. He jumped from world to world until he landed here." I explained the first battle with six heroes and the Princesses and how they defeated him.

"If they defeated him, how has he returned?" Asked Alex. Several nods of agreement could be seen.

"It is unknown to us," answered Luna, "all that we know is that he is back and we need help."

"Ah reckon that's a good a reason as any," said Applejack.

There is more though, that concerns you all," I said pointing to the ponies. Everypony but Twilight looked puzzled at what I was going to say. "You all are going to supported by a major Greek Goddess, just like us."

A collective gasp came from both human, pony and dragon alike. I was rather surprised myself at their reaction.

"Well, in order for them to support you, you have to meet them. Come close, I'll take you to them."

The ponies gathered around me. What I hadn't told them was that I had to put them to sleep. As soon as they touched me the passed out.

"Now, we wait until they return."

As we waited Trevor showed off his wings. I told the guys about how they need to pair up with a pony. I also told them that I was already paired up with Twilight, so she was out. We got it down to acceptable pairs.

Twilight-Myself
Applejack-Alex
Pinkie Pie-Will
Rainbow Dash-Trevor
Fluttershy-Luke
Rarity-Andy

It seemed right, with what we were majoring in or the god behind us. We would ask the girls when they came back if it was ok, along with a brief of the gods behind us. I quickly went over the goddesses with the guys so they would know. We waited a little more, then Twilight and Rarity started to stir. As they opened their eyes and remembered where they were, they regained themselves. Shortly after they woke, the others did the same. Then the question began.

"Who is supporting you all?" I asked.

"The beautiful Aphrodite," said Rarity. How come that didn't surprise me one bit.

"I have Hera," said Applejack. Goddess of marriage, truth, and family. A perfect fit.

"Artemis backs me," Rainbow Dash said proudly. Goddess of the hunt and protector of young maidens. I can see how that works.

"Um, I, uh, have Persephone," said Fluttershy. The goddess of Spring, fits her nicely.

"I have Demeter! She said we're going to bake a lot of stuff together!" Said Pinkie was to excitedly. Goddess of harvest and grains, I can see that.

It hit me after Pinkie just who Twilight had. I facepalmed before she even spoke. I let her speak just to confirm my thoughts.

"I have the intelligent Athena," Twilight said beaming. Goddess of wisdom and battle strategies.

I groaned. That just made things a lot harder. They guys know what I was think and facepalmed as well.

"What's wrong Dylan?" Asked Twilight.

"You know how we're partners?" I asked.

"Yea, so why the groan?"

"Well, your goddess, Athena, and mine, Poseidon, have a little feud between them. Seeing as we're the leaders..." I didn't even have to finish me statement because she understood what I was getting at.

The group became silent for a little bit until we heard trumpets in the distance. Andy looked at his wrist, and I noticed that he had his watch on.

'Wow," he said, "I guess our hour is up."

A few moments later Celestia flew down into the meadow and welcomed my friends. Luna instantly went to her sister's side while the rest of us form a circle around her. I quickly gave a run down of what's happened, and she seemed ok with the god/goddess pairings. Now it was the fun part.

"There is something I haven't said yet, except to Twilight and Luna, about our trip." I directed this toward the ponies. All eyes were now focused on me now as I explained to them the pairing up. The ponies seemed fine with it, except for Dash.

"How can I be paired up with someone who can't even fly?" She asked.

"Simple," replied Trevor, "I just have to do this." With that he made his wings appear, giving the ponies a reason to gasp. Dash looked slightly impressed by this.

"Can you fly though?"

"You bet I can!"

With that the two were off in a race through the clouds. We could barely see them. After a while we decided to get back to the topic of the pairs. We decided to get to know our pairs a little better like how Dash and Trevor were doing. Rarity seemed disgusted that Andy was backed by the god of death, but went eye-wide when he mentioned the gems part. Luke and Fluttershy hit it off almost instantly. I wouldn't doubt it since he was majoring in environmental science, with a minor in veterinarian medicine. Applejack and Alex were having an arm/hoof wrestling contest to prove strength. Pinkie Pie and Will were sharing all sorts of recipes and crafting ideas. It seemed the Pinkie might become a back-up smith in case Will got hurt. Twilight and I didn't really need to be aquatinted anymore, for obvious reasons.

Pretty soon Dash and Trevor had returned. Will remembered that I could do magic, so I had to show the guys. Celestia and Luna were pretty impressed with the level of spells I could do. My friends wanted to try and were getting up until a blinding light appeared. When we regain our vision Zeus was before us.

"Hello human and ponies alike," spoke Zeus with power but a gentle touch, "I have come to see you off. I do not have much time in this world, but I some final words." All attention was now focused on Zeus. "The next time that the humans fall asleep, you will not be transported back to earth. We have stopped time in your world. Until Prometheus is defeated, you will stay in Equestria. When you sleep, when all of you sleep, you will be taken to the abyss to train until we see fit that your powers and teamwork are adequate. Now, we will see you tonight, we wish you luck for now. Good bye."

With that another light flashed and the god was gone. Celestia and Luna looked a little shocked to see that another god could pop out of nowhere like that. The rest of us just kinds shrugged it off.

"Celestia," I said, snapping the princess out of her shock, "what do you want us to do?"

"We must take you all back to Canterlot, there you can be equipped with weapons and armor. After all, I wouldn't wan to send you out fight otherwise."

"Sounds good," I said standing up. I stretched a little before continuing, "Well, lets go. Prometheus won't be waiting forever."

------------------------------

So, it's done. Editor finished it pretty quickly and got it back to me. We both decided to just move what would of been the end of this chapter to the next, since we think it would fit better. Hope you all like it. I do know that it slipped a little back to the earlier chapters, but it was another introduction chapter. From now on, no more pure introduction chapters.

Also, next chapter will be my first time writing a combat scenario. Please don't be mad if it doesn't turn out amazing, though I will try to make it that way. I also decided to add adventure to the theme since that's what it's becoming, maybe even gore if I want to go that far. Tell me what you want though, violence with little or a lot of gore and blood. Until next time, peace out.
> First Strike
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	We rode to Canterlot on four different chariots drawn by pegisi. The princess were in one, Twi and I in another. The others were divided between the remaining two except for Dash and Trevor who flew themselves. We had been flying for two hours now and were almost to Canterlot.

"It should be another ten minutes 'till we arrive," Celestia shouted to us over the rushing air.

"Where are we landing?" I asked.

"In the place gardens," Luna replied, "we have smiths already waiting to greet you."

"Remember, once we touch down you will be sent to be fitted with armor and weapons," Celestia said, "time is not on our side."

We had close the gap by half when we noticed smoke starting to rise from the city.

"Is everything ok?" I asked Twilight

"Probably just a fire, they happen on..."

Twilight was suddenly cut off by the sound of a roar coming from the city. We looked at each other. I could tell the sisters had fear in their eyes from the sound. I thought fast for out next course of action. I turned to Trevor and Dash.

"Dash, Trevor," I shouted to get their attention, "fly ahead and see what that sound was. We'll meet you in the gardens, you can brief us there."

The two nodded showing their understanding before taking off with ingodly speeds. I looked around, checking out how the others were reacting. The sisters had calmed down, while the rest still seemed to be shaking. As we came closer to the city more columns of smoke began to rise. We touched down right when dash had reached the garden.

"Where's Trevor?" I asked as I jumped from the chariot.

"Right here," he said as he touched down next to me. I let out a breath of relief.

"What's the status?"

We had formed a circle. Celestia sent a guard to fetch a table, a map of the city, and some pens to help us coordinate better.

"Well, it isn't pretty," Trevor began, "we have two manticores, some harpies, and what looked like undead pony warriors terrorizing the town."

"Manticores and harpies, they don't usually leave Everfree Forest, much less come this far out," said Fluttershy.

"I think I can guess why their here," I said. All I got in response was confused looks. I facepalmed before speaking, "really, it's pretty obvious. This is Prometheus's doing. Who else could have done it?"

"If what you say is turn Dylan," Celestia said, "then we need to act fast."

"Already on it sister dear," said Luna as she walked up followed by six ponies dragging carts willed with weapons. Luna also had the table and supplies. I didn't even notice that she left, but I'm grateful she did. "Now, these smiths will fit you quickly."

Everyone/pony went up to a smith to get fitted, while Twilight, the sisters, and I stayed at the table to discuss our next plan of action.

"We should stay in our pairs, it will let us get to know each others strengths and weaknesses better," I said.

"Yes, that is a good plan," Luna replied.

"But we need to know where the creatures are," Twilight mentioned.

"Hey, Trevor, Dash," I said over my shoulder. "Can you come here for a second?"

They walked over to the table. Luckily they had already been fitted. Trevor had a quiver of javelins on his back, was fitted with leather armor, and was carrying what looked to be two short swords at his waist. Dash was plated with a light steel armor and blades along the front of her wings. I have to say, the blacksmiths did a damn good job for the two minutes they had with them.

"Ok you two, were did you see the monsters?"

"The manticores were here, at the Southern Plaza," Dash said pointing to the location on the map. twilight marked it down.

"The harpies were over here to the West," Trevor said. "I was a little confused though, they couldn't really fly, just glide around."

"That would be our defenses," Celestia said.

"What defenses?" I asked.

"My sister and I put some spells up around the city to try to help prevent monsters from getting in," Luna said, "those seemed to have failed but as backup there are spells that restrict flight in canterlot to those with monster blood in their vains for a short time."

"Ok, now where are the undead ponies?" I asked. Trevor pointed to the North-Eastern side of the city. "Great, we're going to have to split up to fight these things. Everybody, over here. Now!"

Everybody gathered around the table as Twilight and I explained the situation. Everyone seemed to be equipped with a variety of weapons. The only two, other than Twilight and me, that didn't have anything was Fluttershy and Andy. I shrugged it off, mainly because of the personality of the two.

"We decided to split into three teams of four," I said, "Andy, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Luke, you will go and face the undead soldiers. Andy, you will be leading your team. Dash, Pinkie, Will, and Trevor, you four have the harpies. Will, I trust that you will be the most collective during you fight, so you the leader. Applejack and Alex, you're with Twilight and me against the manticores. Any questions?"

"Yeah, I have one," said Pinkie, " do harpies like to eat?"

"I believe they do, why?"

"Oh, just because I brought some super delicious cupcakes and was wondering if they would want some."

"Oooook then. Any more questions?" Silence was my answer. "Good, now everyone, good luck out there. Don't die on us now, and may the gods be with you."

"Yea!" Shouted everyone before taking off. Alex and AJ stay to wait for my and Twilight to get equipped. I took a bow and a quiver of steel arrows and dressed in leather armor. I also equipped a short sword just in case. Twilight just put on a robe and sheathed two daggers at her sides. As we walked back to AJ and Alex I saw what they had. Alex was wearing full steel armor, excluding the helmet, and had a claymore on his back. In his had he had a medium sized circular shield and a long sword. Applejack had hard leather armor on with steel spiked boots on her rear hoofs. He front hoofs were bare but she was carrying a short sword in her mouth.

"Lets go hunt down some manticores," I said with a smirk on my face

-------------------------

North-East Canterlot (3rd Person)

Four shadows, two human and two pony, made their way across the rooftops of Canterlot towards their foes.

"I have a plan," said Andy.

"Well what is it dear?" Rarity asked.

"It's a long shot, but since I'm now blessed by Hades, maybe I can somehow control these beings."

"Good idea," replied Luke, "but we're gonna need a back up plan in case that goes sour."

"Um, I have one, if you don't mind hearing it."

"Of course not Fluttershy," said Rarity, "what do you have in mind?"

"Well, since Luke has a bow, he could, um provide cover from the roofs. Rarity, you could use your magic and sword together to, um, keep them off of Luke. That is if you don't mind."

"That's a brilliant idea Fluttershy," said Andy, "but don't count me out of this fight." Andy proceed to pull out two curved daggers from under his cloak. "I can fight too you know."

Fluttershy's face brightened at this new found discovery. "Well, then, I could use my stare while you finish them off with a decapitation." Everyones face went into a state of shock at Fluttershy's idea. "What, they're hurting innocent ponies, we have to stop them."

Shaking the disbelief of the timid pony's thoughts, Luke noticed they had arrived. "Hey, guys. We're here."

The gang of four stopped on the edge of the roof they were on and looked at the carnage in the plaza before them. There were about twelve ponies cladded with leather armor and a mix between axes and swords. Around them bodies of recently killed ponies were littered across the ground. Blood had been mixed into the central fountain, making the water turn red. Fluttershy held back tears while Rarity held back vomit. Andy and Luke just looked at disgust to the scene before them.

"Luke, over there," Andy said pointing to a nearby rooftop, "get over there with Rarity and get ready to shoot. We're going with my plan, if that fails, I counting on you to get me out of there in one piece."

"Sure, come on Rarity."

Luke and Rarity jumped across two roofs and settled in position. Luke notched his bow and Rarity pulled out the katana she had equipped herself.

"Fluttershy, stay here," Andy said, "I might get injured. I am counting on you to stay here so when I come back you can heal me, ok."

"Ok, I'll try," Fluttershy said still holding back tears.

With that Andy jumped off the roof onto the ground below. The thud sound of his landing made the zompony warriors look at him and slowly advance on his location. He drew his blades just in case his plan failed.

"Hades," Andy murmured under his breath, "if you truly are behind me, please take these monsters away." At that Andy shot his hands forward, yet nothing happened. The zomponies continued there advance. Andy looked up to Luke and was about to give the signal to fire when the ground shook. A chasm opened up under six of the ponies and closed just as fast crushing them into oblivion.

"That is the best I can do," said a voice in Andy's head.

"That's plenty," He replied in his thoughts. He looked up at Luke and yelled, "Now!"

The warrior ponies were stumbling after the chasms opening and closing as the first of Luke's arrows pierced on through the chest. Rarity's sword came down low and chopped off the pony's legs, leaving him unable to move.

As Andy dashed in he yelled, "The head Luke, aim for the head!"

"I know, I know. I'm not as good of a shot as Dylan! Give me a break!" He yelled back.

"Rarity, same goes for you, go for a decapitation."

"Sure darling."

Andy had reached the closest warrior to him. He jumped in the air with blades pointed downward and slammed them right into it's skull.

"One down," Andy thought, "Just five more, holy shit!"

An axe wielding pony had charged Andy as he was pulling his blades out. The axe swung strait down, clipping Andy's left shoulder as he dodged in the nick of time. The pony swung again as Andy started to scrabble to get up, but as cut short as an arrow pierced through it's skull.

"I got your back buddy!" Luke yelled triumphantly.

"Thanks Luke!" Andy replied as he charged the next pony. "Lets get this one together."

"Sure." Twang, another arrow ripped through the air, hitting the sword wielding pony in the flank. The pony turned to see Andy charging and raised it sword to block his blades. Andy struck down hard, but with only the left blade. The right was coming from underneath and slashed the pony through the next, successfully decapitating him.

"I got one, I got one!" Squealed Rarity in delight. Andy had enough time to look over to see the first pony that the rooftop pair had attack now lied without a head.

"Good job, have the guts for another?" Asked Andy.

"Why of course, I am Rarity, the most beautiful and deadly in all of Equestria! HA HA HA!" Yelled rarity with a rather disturbing delight.

"Good, we got two left. Luke, Rarity, get the sword wielder. I got the axepony."

A simple twang of the bow, and an arrow had already gone through the sky and hit the swordspony in the knee. It was quickly followed with a gladius decapitating it. Andy charged the final pony, as it charged him. The pony swung hard right, but andy powerslided underneath the axe and pony. As he slide under the pony he brought his lades us and ripped down the warrior, cutting it in half and spilling blood all over himself. Andy picked himself up as the other three came down from the roofs.

"Are you hurt?" Asked Fluttershy immediately.

"Just a graze to my left shoulder, nothing much though," Andy replied.

"Here let my fix that." Fluttershy pulled out a first aid kit from out of nowhere and began to patch the wound.

"Andy, were did you learn to fight like that?" Asked Luke.

"I took martial arts and jiujitsu for a few years. The swords-play just seemed natural," Andy replied shrugging.

"Ok, I mended the wound," said Fluttershy, "but we should get you to a doctor soon, it seemed to be slightly infected."

"Thanks Fluttershy, I will," Andy replied smiling.

"Well, now that the fun and games are all over, lets get back to the castle. I'm in dire need of a shower," said Rarity.

"Yea, we all need one," Andy replied. The four of them began the return trek back to the castle to debrief.

-------------------------

West Canterlot-25 minutes before the defeat of the undead warriors. (3rd Person)

"How many harpies did you say you saw?" Asked Will as his group made their way to the western plaza.

"About seven or eight, there could be more though," replied Trevor.

"We'll deal with that later, Pinkie, do you have those cupcakes?"

"I sure do! I also have three super yummy scumptilicious cake as well!" She replied as she hopped from roof to roof.

"Were are you, you know what never mind. Here's the plan. Harpies are infamous for having ravishing appetites in Greek mythology, so we can use that to out advantage. Pinkie, I need you to place all the sweets that you have on you in the center of the plaza then get out of there fast. Trevor and Dash, while the harpies are distracted, you two will swoop i and kill as many as possible."

"Sure can do," said Dash, "I can't wait to get some real action."

"Dash, remember, those who go looking for blood will find it," said Trevor.

"Well duh, why wouldn't they," she replied.

"That's not the point," said Trevor, "I'll explain it to you later."

"Guys, heads up, we're here," said Will.

Pinkie gulped, "That looks more than eight." She was right, above the four heroes flew about twenty-five harpies.

"Shit, more came," said Trevor.

"You, sure you're not just going blind?" Asked Will.

"No, there are definitely more," said Dash defending Trevor.

"No matter, Pinkie, get ready. Pinkie?" Will looked around frantically seeing as the pink pony had disappeared.

"She's down there," Dash pointed out. Sure enough, pinkie was placing cupcakes, cakes, and all sorts of sweets and goods around the plaza.

"How does she carry so much on her without it being seen?" asked Will.

"Trust me, we've been asking that for years. You just learn to deal with it," Dash said shrugging.

The three sat on the roof in cover so the harpies couldn't see them as Pinkie finished the trap. Suddenly the three heard Pinkie yelling, "Hey all you harpies, dinner is ready!" As soon as she finished, Pinkie was back on the roof next to the others smiling. The harpies seeing the food dived down and began to gorge on the food set before them.

"They're all yours now," Pinkie said.

Trevor pulled out his twin swords as he and Dash took flight. They reach a certain point and dived at the harpies. Dash took the right side as Trevor took the left. Dash and Trevor sliced trough the harpies with ease. The harpies were completely taken by surprised, and almost instantly killed. Four from the back reacted fast enough to take flight and avoided death by the two air-born attackers. One was tackled instantly though by Pinkie who pinned it to the ground and stabbed with her spear.  Will climbed out from the cover spot in time to catch a harpy. I scratch his face and he lost his grip. The harpy began to fly frantically away for it's life.

"Oh, hell no," said Will now infuriated. He pulled out an axe and threw it at the harpy with all his strength. It sliced through the harpy's right wing, causing it to free fall back onto the roof. "No on messes with the Will man's face and lives." Will took out another axe and brought it down hard on the already dieing harpy, ending its life.

Trevor, still air-born, sliced at one of the remaining two harpies, barely missing his target. Angry at hiss miss he threw his blades at the creature, missing once more. Yelling out, he pulled a javelin from his back as threw. He pierce the harpy in the back of the head, letting the lifeless body fall to the ground with a thud.

"Third times the charm," Trevor thought happily.

Dash, unlike her three companions, was have a difficult time finishing off the last harpy. Every time she got close to attack with her wing blades, the harpy would claw at her. Dash decided to take another route to finish off the harpy. She zoomed pasted the creature and got above her. She then nose-dived right at the harpy with an ingodly speed. the harpy had barely any time to react as Dash sliced it in half with her left wing.

After the individual battles were over the group meet back up on the building. "That seemed way to easy," said Trevor.

"Well, harpies aren't know for their strength," said Will, "we also did have a pretty successful trap."

"Yea, but I was expecting something harder, at least by twenty percent."

"If it was so easy Dash, how come you're the most cut up out of all of us?" Asked Trevor.

"Oh, shut it," said a grumpy Dash.

"Don't be so mad Dashie," said Pinkie, "you did great."

"Yea," said Will, "I got cut up pretty bad too. We should be happy it wasn't harder than that."

"I guess," said Dash.

"Ok, now that that's settled, lets head back to the castle to debrief with the others and get these wounds treated."

The four anti-harpy warriors began their run, flight, hop back to the castle. Unknown behind them a harpy had quietly flown away from the battle toward the North-West.

-------------------------

Southern plaza-20 minutes before the defeat of the undead warriors. (1st person, Dylan)

The four of us made our way down the main street through Canterlot towards the southern plaza. Twilight said this was the fastest route there, and we needed any time we could get. As we ran towards the plaza though, we came across heavy traffic of ponies running away from the treat. Alex and I got some questionable looks from some of the fleeing ponies.

"Dylan, any ideas what kind of manticore we're facing?" Alex asked.

"Isn't there only one kind?" Asked Twilight.

"No," I replied, "there are actually several variants. Some are a griffon,lion,scorpion hybrid, others are lion,griffon,dragon,goat, or a some other strange mix. There are also flightless ones, but Trevor mentioned wings to me before he took of, so it rules out another five species or so."

"I didn't know that," said Twilight, "but why did you mention the goat."

"Oh, nothing much, just that the manticore would have the head of a goat on it's tail that removes almost all blind spots and can breath fire. That's the one that came from Greek mythology, so I bet at least on of the beasts is in that category."

"Well, we came across one in our battle with Nightmare Moon," said Applejack, "and it had ah scorpion tail."

"Then we could be facing those," I replied, "we'll find out when we get there."

We were about a block from the plaza now when we heard the first roar. It was quickly followed by another, more powerful roar.

"Shit," I said, "I think we're facing mates."

We rounded the corner and beheld the beasts. Head and front paws of a lion, body and wings of a griffon, with a tail of a scorpion. Thats the gods that it wasn't the goat head.

"Ok, we got lucky," I said, "we can attack from behind. Twilight, did you do any reading on offensive magic at all?"

"No," she replied sadly, "but I have some very powerful defensive spells."

"Ok, we need that too. Aj, Alex," I said turning to our now designated warriors, "I will need you two to distract the manticores while I get into position for a clear shot."

"Ah, sugarcube, Ah don't think one arrow will kill these things," Applejack said with a tone of worry in her voice.

"Don't worry, I'm going to enchant them to explode on impact," I said reassuringly, "that should take a good kick out of their step."

"If you say so," Applejack said still not fully convinced.

"Twilight, I need you to help protect AJ and Alex, ok."

"I'll try."

"Ok, Alex you take the male while AJ takes the female try to keep them separated.."

A large roar from right behind us broke off my sentence as we turned to see what was clearly the male manticore crouched right behind us in attack position. I had just enough time to yell "break!" as we barley dodged the attack.

"Follow the plan!" I yelled as I started to climb a building, "remember to keep them separated but in the plaza."

Alex took a swing at the male, just scratching it's front left leg, but enough to get it's attention. AJ and Twilight had already begun to charge the female, and I lost sight of them. I go to the roof of the building and begun my spell. As I was prepping I watched Alex's battle below me.

The male swung it's tale to stab Alex, but he deflected it with his shield. Alex swung his sword upwards, but only succeeded in cutting some hair off of the mane. The Manticore didn't like that very much and pounced on Alex, pinning him to the ground. Alex lost his shield and was on a frantic defensive with his sword blocking swipe after swipe at his body.

"I could us some help right about now Dylan!" He yelled fearfully.

"You got it." I had finished my first explosive arrow. I notched it and aimed at the beast's tail. I released, hitting it right were the tail connect to the body. A large explosion occurred, sending the beast and Alex flying through the air, and leaving a cloud of smoke blocking my vision. When the smoke dispersed, I say Alex had drawn his claymore and was standing toe to toe with the manticore.

"You trying to kill me too?" He yelled back, but keeping his stance.

"Naw, not this time," I joked back, "but maybe this will help." I notched another arrow and released it. The arrow flew into the beast's left eye, blinding it. As it roared out in pain, Alex jumped in to finish it off. With a clean swing from his claymore, he buried the blade in the head of the manticore. It fell over, now close to death, and roared once more, as if to call it's mate to avenge him. After the roar, the beast spasmed a little, then became still. Alex walked up to the beast and removed his claymore, then went to retrieve his sword and shield. As he did, I looked in the direction the other two went, and became worried.

"Alex, I don't see the others. I think they need help."

"Yea, I was thinking the same thing. They must be holding out though because this one clearly called it's mate and it didn't come."

"That's true, but lets go non the less."

"Yea, get down here."

I climbed/jumped down from the roof. Thank the gods it was only two stories tall. I walked over to Alex as he picked up his shield. We began running in the direction the others went. In a minute we saw what had happened. The female was dead, but Twilight was hunched over Applejack crying. "Ah crap," I thought.

"Twilight, what happened?" I asked as we ran up.

"She, Applejack, protected me from an attack from the tail. I became enraged and shot an icicle spell through the manticore's heart, but Applejack," She said between her sobs, "she's breathing, but it's slow and stagnated. She's be poisoned. I don't think she'll live."

"Alex, grab Applejack," I commanded, "we need to get back to the castle now! Twilight, do you have any more reserve magic?"

"Yea, why?"

"We're teleporting back."

Alex picked up AJ in his arms as Twilight and I charged the spell. A second later we were out of the plaza in a flash of blueish-purple light.

-------------------------

Castle Grounds-1.5 hours after landing.

A bright light appeared before the royal sisters causing them to squint. When the light dispersed, Twilight Alex holding Applejack, and I stood in the center.

"I guess the manticores are defeated then?" Asked Celestia.

"Yea, but wee need a doctor now," I replied, "Applejack been poisoned."

Celestia face went into a grave shock, luckily Luna was on it. "Alex, follow me. I'll take you to a doctor who know how to cure manticore poison," Luna said. Alex just nodded and ran after Luna into the castle.

"Were are the others?" I asked looking around.

"You are the first to arrive," replied Celestia.

"I thought we were assigned the hardest battle?" Asked Twilight.

"We were," I said, "but also the closest and we teleported back, remember."

"Oh yea," replied Twilight embarrassed.

We waited for another five minutes, then Andy's group arrived. I told them we will fully debrief when the others arrived. As soon as I finished, Will's group walked into the garden. We did our debriefs, with Andy going first, then Will, finally onto mine and Twilight. When she mentioned what happened to Applejack, everybody gasped, and Fluttershy began to plea to go help here. Celestia told her where she was taken in the castle and she disappeared, going to help her friend in need.

We lingered around till sunset. During this time Celestia and I talked future plans and stratigies. The others just relaxed and had small talk amongst themselves. Twilight was worried sick about Applejack when Fluttershy, Luna, and Alex walked back into the garden.

"How is she?" asked Twilight.

"She is fine Twilight Sparkle," replied Luna kindly, "though she will need a week to recover."

"So, we're stuck here in Canterlot for a week," slumped Trevor.

"It's going to be soooo boring," added in Rainbow Dash.

"No it won't be heroes," said Celestia as she and I walked back to the group.

"What do you mean?" Asked Trevor.

"We're going to introduce ourselves to the city of Canterlot," I said.

"And there is much to be rebuilt from the recent attack," added in Celestia.

"So, we're going to be on clean up crew?" asked Luke.

"Yes, and no," said Celestia.

"We are also going to train for the next seven days as well," I said, "Celestia and I agreed that we did good today, but we need more experience. We had the element of surprise behind us to plan and take out most of the foes right off the bat. What if that doesn't happen again, we need to be prepared."

Nods of approval were seen. I sighed because I was happy everyone agreed. I took a seat next to Twilight, and everyone watched as Celestia lowered the sun and Luna raised the moon. Next thing I knew I heard snoring from the others, as I myself drifted off to sleep.

-------------------

Yea, three days of work was put into this, while being sick with a cold. Remember that this is my first time writing battle scenes so I did the best I could. My editor helped out a lot, with the idea of putting a battle scene for each battle instead off just summing them up at the debrief. I hope you all enjoyed.

P.S. I am looking for heavy commenting on this chapter for battle scene feedback. Anything I should fix or change now or in the future please let me know.
> Guests and Revelations
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	It's been five days since the attack on Canterlot and our training began. Applejack fully recovered yesterday, so she's a little behind the rest of us, but she'll catch up. We have another week or so until we head off to battle against Prometheus. The training hasn't been to bad, mainly weapon handling and basic magic techniques.

Fluttershy had taken to becoming our medic if anything goes wrong. She's spent a lot of time in the castle infirmary learning from the nurses. Luke's spent some time there as well picking up some basic healing spells, but i've mostly seen him on the archery range. Andy has been in his room most of the week. Something about spells from the underworld that Hades is teaching him. Rarity, Alex and Trevor have spent most of the week in the practice square working with swords. Rarity's taken a liking to rapiers, Alex to claymores and sword/shield, while Trevor's been working with duel swords. Rarity has been learning some new spells, mainly illusion based. Pinkie has taken up pole-arms, spears and halberds mainly. I have got to say, she's a natural wonder with them, maybe all the energy or something. Will, like Andy, has holed himself up with the blacksmiths in castle armory. He does get out time to time to practice with axes and hammers though.

Dash, Twilight and I are the exceptions to self teaching. All I know about Dash is that she is currently in Cloudsdale to work on agility or something with the wing blades. Twilight and I have been having private lessons all week with Celestia and Luna regarding offensive and defensive magic. I should say Twilight has been all week; I "graduated" from their lessons within two days. Apparently a human brain processes and remembers a lot faster than pony brains. we're also more creative, judging that Luna and I brainstormed new forms of spells for combat. We came up with the idea of conjuring weapons (thank you hours of playing the Elder Scrolls franchise). Since the newfound ability to make any weapon I chose appear in my hands, I became the jack of all weapons in our group. I can use most weapons pretty well, yet non like a master, except archery, I'm still the best shot out of the group.

"Ha, I beat your score Dylan!" Said Luke mockingly bringing me out of my thoughts, "guess you're not the best shot anymore."

"Only because I'm using a conjured longbow right now," I replied, "hand me my actual bow, then we'll see."

I dispelled my longbow as Luke handed me my real bow, the bow I've been using for six years now. Every time I use it, any arrow I shot goes right where I want it. I notched an arrow, and let it fly. Snap, it flew into Luke's last arrow splitting it. Just like Robin Hood. I looked over at Luke to see his face radiating his disbelief.

"See, still the best," I said as I threw my bow over my shoulders and walked away.

"I'll beat you yet," He said, still stunned at my stunt.

"Yea, yea," I replied, "if you want a rematch, I'll be in the training yard with Alex. We're going to work more on sword/shield techniques."

I walked out of earshot before he could reply, on my way to train with Alex. I looked up to the sun. I judged it was about noon to one-ish. As I looked to the sun, I remembered that I haven't been to Earth for almost a week now. It doesn't really matter since the gods froze time over there anyways, but I was a little homesick. Mainly because there was no video games here, and man I am a gamer. As I remised about Earth I walked into Alex, literally.

"Oh, sorry Alex," I said getting up.

"No problem," he replied as he brushed off, "Just about to get you from the range. Ready to spar?"

"Yea, I think I'm go ing to use a great shield and long sword today. How about you?"

"Small circular shield and a short sword. I want to work on closer sword fighting."

"Sounds good, you'll probably beat me again."

Alex laughed as he replied, "you really have to have more faith in yourself. Also don't forget that you have magic behind you, and a diverse arsenal that you've been training with."

"Yea, but I'm no where near as good as anyone else, except archery."

"Dude, stop, really," Alex said, "you're making me depressed now. Any how, we're here."

I looked around and saw that Pinkie and Will were sparring each other. I yelled hello and waved. They took a quick second to return that wave and return back to their duel. Alex walked over to the weapons rack and picked up his weapons while I conjured mine up.

"You ready?" I asked.

"When ever you are," Alex replied seriously. He has entered the zone of a warrior, and I wasn't going to let it wait any longer.

Alex and I dueled for about thirty minutes or so. As we fought, I realized how aerobatic I've become. I could dodge better than when we started, and had quicker reaction timing. I guess the training really paid off. Although I could move around easier, Alex was even better. He always seemed one step ahead of me. The only time I was able to get him was when I kept the distance between us pretty big. Either way, the duel ended with my loss, bringing Alex up to five wins and myself with two.

As we finished, Pinkie and Will finished up their session. Trevor had also entered the training yard and watched the duels come to a close. We meet up to relax, I could tell Pinkie and Will had an energetic duel since both seemed exhausted. We grabbed some food and drinks that Trevor brought and began talking

"Will," I began, "have you finished the communicators yet?"

"I was about to get to you about that," he said as he pulled something out of his bag, "I actually have. I already gave one to the princesses and Twilight. I also met Fluttershy on the way here, so she has hers. I've made one for each of you."

Will passed out a device that looked like a bluetooth to everyone. I put mine in my right ear.

"Now, in order to use it, just put you hand up to the communicator and press on the middle button," Will explained, "I've set them so that there can be four different channels. The princesses and Twilight are on channel two at the moment. Just rotate the dial to here to change channels."

I set my channel to two before saying, "Testing communicator. Twilight? Princesses? Respond if you can here me."

"This is Twilight. We hear you Dylan. These things are amazing. Where are you right now anyways?"

"The training yard. Good thing to know hat these thing work. Thanks for the help, I'm switching channels."

I switched back to C-1 before speaking to the others. "Good job Will, but how did you get they to work so well?"

"Magical waves sends the signals, like radio waves back home."

"Makes sense, I guess."

"So, Pinkie," said Alex, "want to spar?"

"Sure Alex-Walex!" Said Pinkie, "I'm all ready for another match."

"Want to make it a free for all?" Asked Trevor.

"That sounds like it would be super-duper fun!" Said Pinkie.

"Count me out," I said, "I gotta go check up on Andy."

"Me neither," said Will, "I have to pass out the communicators."

"Oh," said Pinkie deflating a bit, "ok."

"Don't worry Pinkie," said Trevor reassuringly, "you'll have more than a match with us."

"Lets begin shall we," said Alex as he walked into the center of the training grounds unsheathing his blade.

Will and I left just as they began their match. As we walked through the castle to Andy's room I realized I hadn't spoken to Will since we began training. Guess now was a good of time as any to find out what's been going on.

"So, Will. How's the forge?"

"It's great actually. I picked up some spells while I was down their to help with my crafting. The spell put into the communicators was of my design."

"Cool."

"I want to know though," said Will, "why can almost all of use magic?"

"Celestia explained it to me like this," I said, "human brains are a lot more advanced and complexed than a pony's brain, so we can cast spells easier. Another thing is that most humans apparently has some magic potential in them. Zeus told her that the first time humans came here. They too could use magic, but not like us. Something about our brains being even more complexed than the previous heroes."

"That make sense," said Will. I could tell by his face though that he was lost. I explained it again, going over every point in detail until he completely understood. By the time I finished, we had arrived at Andy's room. I knocked on the door. A few moments later it opened just enough to let someone slip in.

"Come in," said Andy half hiding behind the door," and hurry."

Will and I exchanged glances of concern before we entered the room. I coughed as I entered as the room smelled of rotting flesh and the dead. What took me be surprise tough was the look of the room. It seemed as though I had entered an underworld version of the Canterlot Castle. The walls were tainted black, along with the bed now lined with bones for support instead of metal. The carpet was a blood red in color, and the window seemed to be showing the flames of the underworld through them.

"What the..." I began.

"It looks scary," said Andy, "but there is a perfectly good reason for it."

"Hello heroes," said a deep toned voice.

Will and I turned to voice and gasped. A man, shrouded in black robes that seemed to glisten as if adorned with gems or obsidian, sat in a chair before us.

"Um," said Andy, "Will, Dylan, I would like you to meet Hades, god of the underworld and my patron."

"But, how," began Will.

"It's the room, isn't it?" I asked now that I had regained my senses.

"Yes," said Hades, "this room allows me to stay a prolonged period in this world. I've been in here training Andy in the ways of underworld magic first hand. He show's great skill in it too, I must say. It's as if he was one of my sons."

I looked at Andy, my mind going into overdrive. His mom was single, and worked at the local cemetery. Andy was also an only child. His mother always said that his father died in a car crash shortly after he was born. It couldn't be, no, Andy. My head kept going back and forth between the two not believing what my mind was telling me.

"You don't mean that the reason you became his patron is because..."

"Yea," said Andy, "I'd also like you too meet my father."

Clunk. Will had fainted over the vast amount of information thrown at him. Heck, I would too if one of my friends said he was a demigod. Luckily Andy was a childhood friend, so I took it better. Well, more like I was happy he finally knew who his father was, and I knew when he returned home he would tell his mom. I woke up Will and helped him on his feet before turning back to Hades.

"Ok, before any more surprises," I said, "are any more of us demigods?"

"No, just my son," said Hades, "though you all have a demigod in your ancestry."

That took me by surprise, yet strangely not as much as one would suspect. What was really weird is that I don't want to know who it was.

"So," said Andy, "why did you guys come here anyways?"

"Oh," remembered Will, "for this." He pulled out a communicator and handed it to Andy. He then went through the whole run down with how it works again. Andy just nodded his head in understanding throughout the whole lecture. "Well, that's about all we came here for, and we need to get going."

"Where?" Asked Andy.

"We have to see Rarity and Applejack and give them their communicators," replied Will.

"Can I come?" asked Andy, "I've finished my training with Hades."

I turned to Hades. He nodded confirming what Andy said was true. "Sure," I said, "you need to get out anyways."

We said our goodbye's to Hades and exited the room. Andy took a breath of the fresh air and sighed in relief. I guess being out of that room for the first time in a week would seem amazing. As we started to walk around the castle I realized that we had no idea where either of the two may be.

"Um, anyone know exactly where AJ and Rarity are?" I asked.

My two friends thought for a moment before breaking out into laughter realizing that we were going on a wild goose chase. We decided to call it quiets and just give the devices to them at dinner. We walked out into the garden to get some fresh air. Not even a moment after we entered a guard came running up to us.

"Humans, humans," said the guard between his gasps for breaths, "there, is. Something coming, to the, main gate. It doesn't, look like, a pony. Inform the Princess."

"Ok," I said, "go get some water. We'll let them know."

"Thank you," said the guard regaining his breath. He saluted and walked into the castle.

I flipped my communicator to channel two before say, "Princesses, this is Dylan, do you read me."

"This is Luna. What's going on?"

"A guard just approached Will, Andy and me informing us of a figuring approaching from the South. He seemed to have rushed here from the gate. I think it's important. Do you mind if we go check it out?"

"Not at all," came Celestia's voice through the communicator, "do you want one of us to come with you?"

"Yea, Luna you want to come?"

"It would be my pleasure. I will meet you at the southern main gate."

"We'll se you there. Dylan out." With that I changed my channel back to one. "Ok, I'll teleport us there. You guys heard what Luna said. Lets go greet our new friend." In a flash of blue light we were out of the garden and at the southern gate. A few seconds later a flash of violet light appeared with Luna in the center after it dimmed.

"Hello Luna," I said, "shall we see who our friend is?"

"Certainly."

The four of us exited the city to met this strange being. As it came into view I instantly saw that it was human in shape. "That's weird," I thought, "aren't the six of us the only humans in Equestria?" The shape came closer in view, confirming my suspicions. What surprised me though was that the human was cladded in armor, was caring a shield, and had a sword at his hip. Luna gasped a little when the human came into clear view.

"It can't be," she said.

"What is it?"

By now the human was only about twenty feet in front of us. I noticed the facial structure looked Mediterranean, and he was incredibly tanned. He was well muscled, yet still trim. He had black hair and a pair of emerald eyes. Yet the eyes seemed blank, until they looked at Luna, then they sparked with life.

"Who are you?" I asked loud enough so he could hear my, but not to sound rude.

He replied in a strange language that I didn't understand. I gave a confused look as he shook his head as if remembering something. He then spoke again.

"You do not speak Greek?" he asked. The stranger stopped about ten feet from us, just far enough so we could speak without raising our voices.

"No, but you speak English?" I replied

"Is this not Equestrian?"

"They seemed to be the same form of language, but you didn't answer my question. Who are you exactly?"

"I'm sorry I didn't introduce myself. It was rude of me. My name is Perseus, son of Zeus, and hero of Equestria."

Andy, Will, and my mouthed dropped in disbelief. This man before us was Perseus, the Perseus from myth.  How could he be here though, I thought the last heros died when facing Prometheus over a thousand years ago with the princesses. Did Hades send him up from the underworld to help us. I leaned over to Andy.

"Did Hades tell you anything about sending one of the past heroes to help us?" I whispered.

"If he did, he didn't tell me anything," he replied in a whisper as well, "yet I'm getting some bad energy from this guy."

"Perseus," said Luna walking out to him, "I'm so glad to see you again."

"As am I Princess Lunis."

Lunis, doesn't he mean Luna. I turned my attention back to Perseus to notice a slight movement of his right hand. I knew then that something was wrong.

"Luna," I yelled, "get back."

Luna stopped just as Perseus drew and swung his sword barely missing Luna's neck. Luna jumped back to us in surprise at what had just happened. If I had been a moment slower, she would be dead.

"What is the meaning of this?" Ask Luna.

"I, I don't know," said Perseus as he dropped his sword to the ground, "something just came over me."

"I think I can find out," I said as I prepped a spell in my hand, "that is if you don't mind."

"Not at all," said Perseus.

"Luna," I said, "can you cast a binding spell to make sure he doesn't attack me?"

Luna nodded and casted a binding spell to lock Perseus in place. I walked up and touched my hand to Perseus's forehead. It was a good thing that Twilight taught me a memory transfer spell. A wave of images flashed before my mind. I saw images of his past life flash before me. Then, it was just darkness. Suddenly there was light and a giant body loomed over me. It looked as if it had been created from dirt. It mouthed a few things, yet all that was caught in the memory was, "Perseus, Prometheus, Kill, and Princess." There was suddenly a flash and I was looking at canterlot. I removed my hand from Perseus's head. I noticed I was breathing hard and sweating.

"What did you see?" Asked Luna.

"He's Perseus, but he's not the Perseus you knew," I said.

"What do you mean?" Asked Will.

"Prometheus revived him, he's working for him subconsciously."

At the sound of Prometheus, Perseus's eyes opened wide. Suddenly, he broke free from the binds that held him. I jumped back as he picked up his sword and positioned himself in a fighting stance.

"I am here on behalf of Lord Prometheus," said Perseus, "I have come to slay the leaders of the new set of heroes that oppose my master."

"Well, that was a quick change," I said, "and lucky for you one of them is standing before you." Perseus aimed his sword at Luna with determination in his eyes. "No, it's not her. It's me."

"Well, then drawn your weapon," Perseus said refocusing on me.

I took my I-pod out of my pocket and tossed it to Will. As it flew through the air I conjured a basic breastplate, greaves, and a spear to fight with.

"So you are a mage," said Perseus with a look of surprise on his face, "I have yet to fight one that wields a weapon other than his magic. This will be interesting."

"I'll make sure of it," I said, "I need to ask, would you mind having some inspirational fight music behind us as we fight."

"It's you're call," said Perseus, "but I myself do not mind."

"Good. Will, mind picking a song from my battle track and amplifying it with magic?"

"No problem," said Will as he shuffled through my playlist.

"We fight when the music begins," I said. I turned back to my friends, "Also, don't interfere no matter what happens. This is my fight, and if I die, then continue without me."

The others nodded in understand and backed up to give room for the fight. A few seconds later the music began signaling the fight to start.

Battle Music

We charged each other. I took the first attack, throwing my spear as the distance halved. Perseus ducked the bellow the spear and swung his blade horizontally. I leaped over him dodging the attack and conjuring another spear in my hands. As soon as my feet hit the ground I spun and threw my second spear. Perseus blocked it with his shield. What he didn't know though is that I charged the tip as I conjured it resulting in the spear exploding on contact. Perseus flew threw the air and landed hard. Before he could get up I shot two ice spikes in his direction. He rolled, barely getting dodging from my icy spears. As I conjured two swords he regained his footing and fighting stance.

"Keeping range like a true magician I see," Perseus said tauntingly, "why not fight like a true warrior."

"Fine," I said as I charged. He swung downwards, putting a gash in my right arm in the process. I reacted by doing a spinning sword attack, or a whirlwind as Trevor called it, slicing Perseus right below the thigh. He grunted in pain before swinging downwards. I deflected it in the nick of time, but it still scratched my forehead, causing the vision in my left eye to become useless. After the blow I leaped back to get some distance and breathing room. Since Perseus didn't attack, it seemed that he wanted it as well.

I dispelled my swords and casted a healing spell on my head to seal the wound, never taking my eyes of Perseus. Perseus noticed what I was doing and charged. I shot a series of fire balls at him, each one erupting in a pillar of flames for a second afterwards, to slow him down. I succeeded just long enough to close my wound. He slashed frantically when he reached me, but luckily I was able to dodge the attacks. As he slashed for the tenth time, I saw an opening and took it. I ducked down, put my hands on the ground, and kicked Perseus in the side with both legs at full strength knocking the wind out of his lungs. That gave me enough time to conjure a shield and sword identical to the ones he had as and jump back to give some room between us.

"Now the fun really begins," I said with a devilish grin on my face.

We charged once more, probably with the same mindset. I knew one of us would be dead by the end of this clash. I slashed in a down-leftward pattern. The gash in my arm reduced the speed and power of my slice significantly by now, but the wound to Perseus's leg made his speed drop. He raised his shield in time though the block it, but the swing still came down hard, and rattled him. he overcame the shaking a lot faster than I though and took a swing at me from the left. I tried to deflect the blow with my shield, but I acted to quickly resulting in another gash to my left side. I let out a groan of pain as I slumped to the ground from the attack. My weapons and armor evaporated into nothing as I couldn't hold the spell anymore. I knew that if I wasn't wearing my armor, I would have been killed.

Perseus, with a snug smile on his face, began to limp the short distance over to me. My eyes started to become dark, but I knew I couldn't give up. I began to charge a fireball in my left hand, hiding it from Perseus's view. As he came closer, he just looked more sure of his victory. I looked over to my friends and smiled knowing that they kept their part of the deal.

"Any last words before I finish you," said Perseus.

"Just a few," I said turning my attention back to my foe.

"And what would those be?"

"Burn in the underworld motherfucker," I said as I sent a blue fireball at Perseus. I hit him dead center in the chest, erupting a swirling vortex of flame around him. The last thing I heard was him screaming in pain before I blacked out.


*End music if it has not yet ended*

-------------------------

I woke up and noticed my surroundings. I was what appeared to be a hospital room, and was lying on a bed. I felt a feeling of Deja-vu as I woke up, feeling as if something like this happened before, but under different circumstances. I slowly climbed out of bed, and felt a pain in my arm. I looked to notice a large scar about five inched long on my right arm. As I got to my feet another jolt of pain shot from my left mid-section. I figured it was when I was struck there. I took another look around sensing that something was wrong. I didn't see a single pony around me. This struck me as odd since the infirmary at the Castle always had at least two or three ponies in it.

"Hello," I said, "Is anypony here?" I began to walk down the room to the main doorway. I arrived at the door a lot slower than I wanted, with the pain from my side bothering me every step. Once I reached the doors i opened them to reveal only darkness behind them.

"Ok, what's going on?" I asked myself. I turned around to head back to my bed, only to find that I was now completely surrounded by darkness.

"What the..." I began.

"Dylan," said a deep voice," welcome to my realm."

"Who are you?" I asked.

"I am the one that you are about to face."

"Prometheus," I said with rage behind my voice, "why are you talking to me? No, more importantly, why did you send Perseus to kill Luna?"

All I got back in response was laughter.

"DAMN IT," I shouted now fully enraged," YOU BETTER DAMN WELL ANSWER MY QUESTIONS, OR HELP ME, I WILL FIND YOU AND STRIKE YOU DOWN!"

"Calm down young one," said Prometheus, "I do not wish to hurt humans, only the gods that use you."

"Use us? What do you mean?"

"Ask them yourself."

My eyes suddenly became heavy. I fell asleep hearing Prometheus laughing once more.


-------------------------


"Ah think he's coming around."

"Dylan, hey Dylan. You ok man?"

"Uh, what," I said as I grudgingly opened my eyes, "where am I?"

"You're in the Castle infirmary," said Alex.

I took a quick glance and saw who was gathered around me. Alex and Applejack were too my right, Fluttershy at the foot of the bed looking at some charts with a pony that looked like a nurse. Twilight, Andy and Luna where to my left. Everyone had worried looks on their faces.

"Guys, why the long faces?" I asked with a smile.

That seemed to relax them since their faces became left stiff. The nurse and Fluttershy looked up form the chart and smiled.

"Well, it seems like somepony made a speedy recover," said the nurse.

"Thanks," I said. I turned to Luna. "How lone have I been out?"

"Three day."

"What, three days!" I said surprised. I began to throw myself off the bed before noticing that I was strapped down. "What the. Why am I strapped down?"

"Well, um, two nights ago, you ah, slept walked," said Fluttershy, "we found you in the hall outside of the doors. You had collapsed, so we strapped you down so you wouldn't hurt yourself again. Now that you're awake though, you don't mind if we keep them on while we check your health."

"No, not at all," I said. Slept-walked, two nights ago, where I had walked in the dream with... I snapped my head to Luna. "Princess, I need to speak with you and your sister at once."

Luna was taken aback from my request for a second before recomposing herself. "Of course, I will fetch her now." with that Luna walked out. I turned my attention back to the others.

"Guys, can you gatherer everyone here. I need to tell everyone something, and I don't want to repeat myself." The others nodded and left without asking anything. I relaxed as the nurse and Fluttershy were checking up on me.

*15 minutes later*

Everyone had gathered in a meeting room three doors down from the infirmary. I had come out normal and was allowed to have a short leave, but Fluttershy had to be near me the whole time to make sure i could handle myself. I had retold about my vision, dream, thing with Prometheus the night I believe I slept walked. When I finished, everyone looked at me like I was crazy.

"Why is everyone looking at me like I'm crazy," I said rather loudly after a minute.

"Well sugarcube, you sound crazy."

"Not to insult your sanity or anything," added in Will, "but what you just said sounds ridiculous."

"I'm not crazy, I know what I saw and heard!"

"I know you wouldn't lie," said Celestia, "but it does seem rather far fetched."

"I know it does," I replied desperate now, "but one of you have to believe me." I looked around desperately for support. No one gave any. "Damn it," I thought, "why would Prometheus want the heroes back from the grave. Wait, if they're no longer dead, then that means..."

"Andy," I said, "have you spoken to Hades since my fight?"

That gathered the looks of everyone at the table. I guess no one except Will and I knew about his little chats. Andy looked down defeat before speaking.

"No, I haven't. I've tried though, but it seems he doesn't want to be disturbed."

"Great," I said, "my only chance to prove myself is now..."

Suddenly the room became surrounded in a black mist. The next thing any of us knew is that we were in the Abyss between worlds.

"Why are we back here?" Asked Alex slightly annoyed.

"Because," said a voice, "what Dylan says is true."

We turned to face our patron gods. Every one of them had a grave expression on their face. It seemed that the raising on their kin had some affect on them.

"We need answers," I said harshly stepping forward, "and you all will answer them, or I'm not continuing on this quest." The others were stunned at my tone to gods that could destroy us on a whim. I didn't care, I needed answers, and I would make sure I got them.

Zeus took a sign before speaking. "You will have them. Now ask away."

"Good. First, why are the past Heroes who were sent to Equestria back from the dead? Second, what did Prometheus mean in my vision? Lastly, why are we truly here?"

"I can answer the first question," said Hades, "I believe that Prometheus used a path that was unknown to me to collect the souls of the fallen heroes. I don't know what he is using them for, but do not face them alone."

"Well I did, and almost won," I said angrily, "why shouldn't we fight them when our training is making us stronger every day?"

"Because you are their descendants!" Snapped Hades.

That took all of us by surprise, especially me. "Wait," I said, "if they are our ancestors, shouldn't that give us more of a reason to fight them."

"What do you mean?" asked Zeus.

"Shouldn't we, their kin, be the ones to put them to rest once and for all," I explained, "when I fought Perseus, he seemed confused. Also when I looked into his mind, I felt that I didn't want to be alive. They're in pain, and we have to set the free."

"You have a point," said Hades, "no human should be reborn before their time. You can fight them, just not alone."

"Ok, but now my second question."

"Yes, yes," said Zeus, "the vision. We are not using you, that is just Prometheus morphing your mind."

"How can I trust you?"

"You can't," said Hades, "but you have too."

"That's reassuring," I said sarcastically. I looked over my shoulder to see if everyone was still here. They were, but were too stunned by my behavior so speak. I turned my attention back to the gods.

"And our reasons for being here?"

"Only a god and a human together can defeat a titan," said Zeus, "that is why we picked the strongest to stop him before. With you and your friends being descendants of the heroes that defeated him before, we picked you."

"I see," I said, "one final question. Who are we descendants of?"

"We will answer that in due time," said Hades, "but for now, you must return. "With that the others faded from the abyss back while I stayed.

"Why am I still here?"

"Because," Zeus said walking up to me, "of this." He put one arm on each of my wounds from the fight. I felt a warm energy flow through me and I closed my eyes. After a few seconds the warmth disappeared. When I reopened my eyes, in as back in the meeting room with everyone looking at me with mouths opened.

"What?" I asked.

"Your arm," said Fluttershy and Twilight in unison. I took a look as gasped. The scar was gone, and in it's place was the lost muscle. I lifted my shirt and say the same thing had happened to my side.

"What happened after we left?" asked Luna.

"I think Zeus healed me," I said feeling a wave a exhaustion come on, "but I think only psychically." The room became very blurry once I finished the sentence. "Why do I keep blacking out like this," were my final thoughts before all I could see was darkness.

-------------------------

I awoke in a strange chair in a strange room. The room seemed to look of a mediterranean style, yet much older than todays standers. As I looked around the room, the door opened. I stood up, waiting to meet whatever guest was entering. A man wearing a white toga, cladded in golden leaves and petals walked in.

"Hello Dylan," said the strange man kindly.

"Hello," I replied a little more relaxed, "may I ask. Who are you?"

"I am Theseus, ruler of Athens and slayer of the Minotaur."

"May I ask why you are here?"

Theseus laughed before speaking, "yes, you may."

"Then, why are you here?"

"To give you a message."

That sparked my interest. "What kind of message."

"A warning. Do not face Prometheus head on, I have seen his power and am seeing it again. He has brought Perseus, Herakles, Atlanta, Jason, Achilles, and myself "

"You were one of the heroes who came before."

"Yes, I was the leader of the first group, as you are now. The princesses know what must be done to stop Prometheus."

"Why are you telling me this if you work for my enemy? How can I trust you?"

"Because, you are the only hope between our worlds, and my legend." With that Theseus disappeared leaving me alone in the room once more.

"I am the descendent of Theseus," I said shocked, "and he values family over his commander. I still don't fully trust it, but his eyes showed only truth." With my thoughts gathered, I walked back over to the chair and fell asleep, exiting the vision-dream I was in.

-------------------------

Yea, it's done. Sorry it took so long to update, was out of town last weekend, so didn't have my computer with me. I also decided to mash two chapters into one since I didn't really want to break it. Hope everyone enjoys this.
> Setting Off
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Three days after the Theseus dream encounter.

"Ah," I said stretching, "it feels good learning a new spell. Yet I feel more tired than when I began."

Twilight and Celestia laughed at my comment. "It always does," Twilight added, "especially when we are creating a new spell."

"Yea. I can't wait to use this in battle."

"Remember," said Celestia sternly at me, "that you can only use the spells you created when you are in dire need."

"I know," I replied, "I don't even think I can cast any of them more than once a day each, so I need to make it count when I use them."

"Thats the spirit," Celestia said with a smile.

"Well, if you excuse me, I have an appointment with a certain unicorn today, and I really need to get going," I said.

"Who," said Twilight bewildered.

"It's somepony you know quiet well," I said, "in fact, I think he returned from his honeymoon quite recently."

Twilight looked even more confused than before. After a few seconds though a light shone in her eyes. "You mean my brother!" Twilight said excitedly.

"Yes. I heard he was an exceptional barrier maker, and I thought that I could learn a thing or two from him."

"Oh oh, can I got princess," said Twilight leaping with excitement now," can I. Can I. Please, please, please!"

"Of course Twilight," said Celestia chuckling.

"Thank you. Thank you. Thank you!"

"Before you go," Celestia said as her horn began to glow. A warm, yellow light wrapped around Twilight and I rejuvenating us.

"Thank you Celestia," I said as Twilight and I walked out and closed the door behind us.

Twilight an I walked through the castle toward my meeting point with Shining Armor. Twilight was bouncing along with a giant grin on her face. I asked her about the wedding, making it seem as if I didn't know much. She broke down the whole story of the changelings attacking and the impostor princess. When I heard about how many changelings they actually took down, which the show greatly decreased, I was taken aback. By now though we had reached the front courtyard where Shining Armor was waiting for us, along with Princess Cadence. Twilight ran to hug her brother and step-sister.

"Hello Shining Armor and Princess Cadence," I said walking up, "or should it be Prince Shining Armor?"

"Shining is fine," he replied smiling.

"Also Cadence as well," said the princess smiling as well, "any friend to Twilight is a friend to us."

"As you wish," I said bowing jokingly. "I have heard that you are a master as barrier spells from your sister Shining."

"Now what made her get that idea?" he asked looking down at his sister laughing. Twilight pulled one of her guilty smiles as she pulled back from the hug.

"Don't be so modest," I said, "you raised an entire barrier over Canterlot for an extended period of time."

"Yes, but it did give him migraines," said Cadence.

"I heard. What I want to know is that if you could teach them to us for our quest." The three ponies looked at me surprised. Cadence and Shining I understood, but Twilight, really. I continued, "as you might know, you sister and I, along with our friends have been set forth on a quest to save Equestria, again. Although we have barrier spells we know, I thought that knowing more advanced ones would help a lot."

"I see your point," said Shining rubbing his chin.

"But we just got back from our honeymoon," said Cadence, "I thought we could relax a little."

"Yes darling, but this is for the faith of Equestria," replied Shining, "you heard what happened to Canterlot while we were gone and how they helped. It's the least I can do as the Captain of the Royal Canterlot Guards."

"So, does that mean a yes?" I asked.

"Yes..."

My heart leaped with joy.

"On one condition.

And my heart sank again. "What would that condition be," I said.

"You need to break through my toughest barrier with magic," he said smiling, "only then will I know you have the magical energy to use my spells."

Twilight and Cadence gasped at the challenge while I just cracked my knuckles in anticipation. Shining motioned for them to back up, which they did without question. He proceeded to cast a barrier around himself.

"Wait, before we do this, can I teleport us to somewhere more open, like the fields outside of Canterlot?"

"Sure," said Shining Armor dispelling his shield, "but it's quite a walk there."

"No problem," I said as I walked forward. I placed my hand on Armor's head and a flash of purple light evolved us. When the light faded we were in the eastern field.

"That quite a distance to teleport," said Armor impressed, "a few miles at least."

"So does that give me any credit at all to learn the barrier spells," I asked jokingly.

"No, you still have to break it," he replied in good humor. He proceeded to produce another barrier, that same size as before

"Ok. I'm still going to break it though." I charged my basic fireball spell, the one I had first used when I arrived in Equestria, and shot it at the barrier. It went perfectly, but caused no hint of damage to the shield. I continued to fire spells of ice, fire, electrical, and acidic making each one more powerful than the last. Each one caused no damage to shield, and when one did happen to damage it, Shining repaired the shield almost instantly. by the time I had reached my more advanced spells, I still couldn't make the barrier budge.

"By the gods," I said gasping for breath after a powerful acidic spell, "why is this shield so damn strong?"

"Because it's the most powerful one I could conjure," said Shield mockingly, "and so far no pony other than the Princess's could break it."

"Then I guess I should change tactics," I smirked as I put my hand close together as if I was holding a medium sized ball in my hands. A soft blue glow appeared in my hands in my pocket. My I-pod levitated out of my into the center of my hands, with the speakers facing toward Shining Armor.

Bass Cannon Active

"What kind of spell is this?" Asked Armor intrigued, "I've never seen it before.

I looked up slowly as I replied, "because I just created it today. It's the spell of music. It's called..."



*Five second pause for dramatic effect*





"... Bass Cannon."

"Bass Cannon?"

"Yes, can't you hear it?" I asked smiling.

Power up the Bass Cannon

"What in the world," said Shining.

Fire

When the bass dropped waves of energy burst from my hands. When I mean waves, I mean energy that flowed like sound waves that went with the music. At first nothing seemed to happened.

"Your spell doesn't seem to be working too well," said Shining Armor Mockingly.

"Phase two is the real spell," I said, "just wait till it hits phase two."

After a few more seconds, phase two began.

Power up the Bass Cannon.


Fire

The waves intensified, doubling in power and magnitude, striking the barrier at full force. Large cracks started to appear all over the barrier as the waves of energy blasted forth from my hands. Slowly I could see the strain wear on Armor, until the barrier shattered, blasting Armor clean off his hooves at least thirty feet behind him. I stopped the spell before any more harm could befall him..

*End music*

-----------------------

Somewhere, off in the distant city of Manehatten, a certain white coat, blue maned, red eyed pony's head raised as she heard what was the faint sound of a sweet bass before it disappeared as quick as it had come.

------------------------

"You ok Shining Armor?" I said as I walked to the pony lying on the ground. A mild groan was all I received. "Damn, let me heal you up."

I casted a minor healing spell for any internal injuries he had. After a few moments Shining was able to stand beck up, though not as strongly as before.

"I guess you won," he said laughing, though his pain was clear, "now how about we start your training."

"Tomorrow," I said, "first, you need to get to the infirmary."

"Don't you leave tomorrow though?"

"We pushed it back a day because of the incident with Perseus. I think you heard of it."

"Yea, I was informed as soon as I returned."

"Ok, now lets get you back to the castle," I said smiling. In a flash we were back in the main courtyard of the castle, with Cadence and Twilight waiting. I explained why Shining was in the state he was in, and got a lecture from Twilight about using the Bass Cannon on her BBBFF, as we took him to the infirmary. After leaving the three in the infirmary, I went to seek out Luna. After walking around the castle for a while, a guard told me she was in her chambers. I thanked him and was on my way. I arrived at Luna's chamber doors and knocked.

"Who calls for us?" Asked Luna behind the door.

"It's Dylan Luna," I replied, "and it's me, not us."

The door opened and I was greeted by Luna's smiling face. She gestured me in as she said, "Why did you not say so sooner Dylan. We, I mean I, have been expecting you for an hour now."

"Sorry, got a little sidetracked with Shining Armor."

"Did he agree to teach you his barrier spells?"

"Yes, but it wasn't easy to persuade him." I retold the events that happened with Shining and me in the field. Luna seemed impressed that I actually broke his shield that quickly.

"I thought I heard your spell. I am glad to see that the work you've done with my sister and I have payed off."

"Yea, I can't thank you two enough."

"Make no mention of it. It is our duty to protect Equestria, and that entitles us to train the heroes that will make it possible."

As she finished, there was a knock on the door, followed by a voice saying, "Ah, Princess Luna, are yah there?"

I opened the door to be greeted by Applejack. "Well, hey there Applejack, you're just in time."

"Howdy Dylan, greeting's Princess Luna"

"Are you here to talk about the rations for the trip?" Asked Luna.

"You bet I am"

"Can I join?" I asked.

"Sorry sugercube," said Applejack, "but you know that Alex and ah have the job for food. Ah also need to talk to the princess here by myself."

"Oh, ok," I said defeated, "see you two later then?"

"Yes, Dylan," said Luna, "I will call you back later tonight."

"Tonight?" I asked puzzled.

"It's already five sugar," said Applejack, "didn't you know?"

"No, thanks," I said as I exited the door, "see you later." I closed the door behind me and walked down the hall. I let out a sigh. It hadn't even been five minutes of walking and I got bored. After a few more minutes I ran into Rainbow Dash.

"Hey Dash," I said grabbing her attention, "when did you get back form cloudsdale?"

"Just a few minutes ago," se replied, "I have awesome news by the way."

"What?"

"While I was training, the Wonderbolts scouted me," Dash said beaming, "and if I return from our trip in one piece, I can join them."

"Sweet. Hey, have you been informed of any of the recent events here?"

"Yea, I heard you got banged up pretty bad. What happened mister hot-shot, a random warrior to tough for the magic man?"

"No, I was just exhausted from sparring earlier that day so I wasn't in my top form," I said, "I could have beaten him in ten seconds flat if it wasn't for that." I successfully turned Dash's quote back on her.

"Hey, only I can say that."

"Sure, sure. Well, I got to go. See you in two days when we set off?"

"Yea, totally."

With that Dash and I parted ways. I headed back to my room. I did some studying on combining spells and weaponry summoning until it was time to head to bed. I closed my eyes and let sleep take over.

Two days later, Canterlot Western Gate, Ten O'clock AM

"Everypony ready?" asked Applejack as she fasted her saddle.

Nods of agreement and a few yea's were her response as the twelve of us finish our last minute check. We had a little bit of a goodbye crowd to send us off. The princesses, Cadence and Shining Armor, the smiths that Will had been with almost the entirety of the two weeks, some guards that trained with us, even the Wonderbolts showed up. I'm betting the last on because of Dash. The streets were oddly clear of any other ponies, probably because of who was here to set us off.

"I'm good to go," I said as I finished my pack check. Some of the others were finishing up and saying their goodbyes. I walked over to Princess. "Thank you for the knowledge of the arcane arts." Ok, could I sound any nerdier.

"It was our pleasure," replied Celestia, "and remember about the once per day rule on those certain spells."

"Don't worry I won't forget," I replied smiling.

"Don't forget that you were going to show me the device that you call 'video games' when you return," said Luna.

"How could I forget," I said chuckling, "I'll show you if it's within my ability to do so."

After a few more quick words, I turned my attention to Shining Armor, who at the moment was dealing with Twilight. I couldn't help but laugh a little as I walked up seeing Twilight's expression.

"What's so funny?" Asked Twilight.

"You look like a little filly on her first day leaving home," I said, "and it brought back funny memories of my childhood."

"Oh, ok," she said not fully trusting me.

"Do you mind if I take you brother for a moment?"

"None at all. I was about to ask the same to you for the Princess's."

"Shining Armor, I can't thank you enough for yesterday's training."

"No problem," Armor said smiling, "I was actually surprised on how easy you grasped it. You're almost as good as me."

"The Princess's were also shocked on how fast I learn spells when I want to, and what do you mean almost. You could break one of my shields."

"Yea but I wasn't trying my hardest too either." We glared at each other strait in the eyes for almost a full minute before we broke out laughing. We brohoofed, and said out final goodbyes.

I went back to my pack just to do one more check because my inner eagle scout said something was missing. Lets see: food, check; warm clothing, check; sleeping bag, check; I-pod, check; bow and arrows, check; armor, check; other survival tools, check. After I finished my examination again, I looked noticing that everybody was now waiting on me.

"He,he, sorry," I said scratching the back of my head, "Boy Scouts."

The twelve of us true our bags on, and headed out the gate. As we exited we said our final goodbyes and headed down the trail. After about three hours of walking we stopped for lunch.

"So Twilight, were are he headed," said Alex as he munched on an apple.

"Well," she said as she pulled out a map from he saddlebag, "Prometheus, if the Princess's are correct, should be in far western reaches of equestria, past the draconic lands."

"We have t-to go t-through the l-lands of t-the d-d-dragons?" Asked Fluttershy now completed scared out of her wits.

"Yes and no, there is a river that starts in the new village of Sacramareto that will take us through past any dragon."

"So I guess that's our first stop?" Trevor said.

"Yes, it's about a three day journey walking, since the train hasn't been established out there yet." Said Twilight grimly.

"Then I guess we better get going now, and not waste anymore time," I said getting up, "come on, lets go!"
> Sacramareto
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	"Guys, I see the town!" Shouted Trevor from above, "it's over the next hill."

"Great!" I replied, "you and Dash wanna go ahead and check it out?"

"Sure," Trevor replied as he turned to Dash, "wanna race?"

"You're on!" With that two blurs, one rainbow and one gold, flew toward the direction of Sacramareto.

"We better catch up to them," I said.

We quickened our pace up the hill. When we reached the top, we saw the town. Most of the buildings were some double story, yet there was a single floor one here and there. It was a little larger than Ponyville, yet more cramped. I could tell it was a developing town, maybe to become a small city one day. We ran down the hill, mainly for the reason to see some sort of civilization again. A few days of walking in nothing but forests and open plains can be tiring after a while. As we reached the bottom of the hill dash and Trevor met up with us.

"Any news partner?" Asked Applejack.

"Yea, the whole town seems deserted," said Trevor, "it's kinda weird."

"That's strange," said Rarity, "I've been here once before, and the town was always bustling with excitement. It seems out of nature that the town would be empty."

"Well, there's no use staying here," said Will, "lets go check it out."

During the conversation, something was nudging on the back of my mind. I dismissed it and the twelve of us began walking toward the edge of town. The closer we got, the more my mind was say get away, and the more I knew we needed to go forward. We we reached the edge of town, the nagging feeling stopped, which bothered me more than when it was happening.

"Guys," I finally said, "something been nagging at me that this place is bad news. We should be on guard."

I received a silent nod in agreement as ever body equipped weapons or prepared spells. I drew the twin blades at my side as we carefully made our way toward the center of town.

"Rarity, are you sure this is the right way?"

"It's been a while, but the layout is the same, so I'm pretty sure this is the way."

"Ok." I turned my attention to Trevor and Dash and said, "guys, mind if you two become our eyes in the sky?"

"Sure thing," Dash replied. A second later the two of them were back in the air keeping an eye in front of and behind our little ground troop.

After a few moments of walking like this, we arrived in what rarity remembered to be the central plaza. The sight before us only made us more worried. All around the plaza there were shops and stands set up, as if they were preparing for a day of sales. They looked as if they had been set up not even an hour before our arrival, yet there wasn't a soul around. That wasn't all I noticed. There wasn't a sign of struggle or even a fight, it was if everypony had just vanished.

"Dash, Trevor, see anything?"

"No," replied Trevor, "nothing so far up... wait, Dash did you see that?"

"Where?"

"Three streets north, then two east. It looked like a giant shadow of some sort. Look there it is again!"

"Yea, I saw it. It was closer that time." Dash, not even looking down at us, said, "guys, be ready. It looks like you're going t have company pretty soon."

"What is it?" Asked Twilight.

"I don't know," responded Dash, "it looked like a large shadow of some sort of fish."

"Dylan," came a voice in my head that I could tell was Poseidon, "get out of the city now! You need to fight that thing in the open!"

"What is it!" I said with a worried tone in my voice. Everyone's head looked at me.

"It's a Leviathan."

"Shit," I yelled, "we have to get out of the city now. That shadow thing is a Levia..."

As I was finishing my sentence a loud wail,roar thing erupted from what seemed to be the town hall. Suddenly a shadow appeared on the side of the building, growing in size rather quickly. Not even a second after shadow appeared, a giant fish looking creature burst from the shadow, mouth open showing rows of razor sharp teeth.

"Get down!" I yelled in the nick of time. Everyone hit the floor as the beast sailed above us into the shadow of another building. I quickly got back up, sheathed my blades, and said into my communicator, "Everyone, we have to get out of the city now! That thing is a Leviathan, it can jump into and out of shadows at a whim. We don't have a chance in the city, we got to get out into the fields. Twilight teleport everyone out, I'll lure him into the fields. Dash! Trevor! Keep an eye on that shadow and tell me when it's about to strike. You two are my only chance at survival, so keep you're eyes peeled."

Cue Escape Music

The rest of the team scrambled to get up as I started running the way we came. Twilight was able to cast a mass teleportation spell, and everyone behind me vanished. I prepped an ice spell in one hand an a barrier in the other as I ran.

"Watch your six," said Trevor through the communicator, "it's right behind you."

I turned around, running backwards now, as I saw a giant fin appear from the ground in front of me. It was slowing rising, and soon I got a look at the whole body. All I could think was,"shit, that thing is way to big, and way to ugly." Since it would be too hard to fully describe this thing, here's a mental image for you all to go off of.



Yea, something like that, but swimming through land. It opened it's mouth preparing to devour me, but instead got a mouthful of an ice wall. It sank back down into shadows, waiting for another attack. I turned back around, now fully sprinting to get to the edge of town. I knew that my little spell didn't do much, maybe just gave it a chipped tooth at the most.

"Yo, Poseidon. I thought Leviathans were sea monsters, not land," I said to him telepathically.

"There are many kinds. Yes, most are found in oceans, but there are some that swim through the land as if it were water."

"Great, anything I should know?"

"Yes, two things. Listen to you radio and avoid it's mouth."

"Wait what?"

"Dylan," screamed Dash through my headset, "get down, it's almost on top of you."

"Shit," I said power sliding as the beast flew over my head between the two buildings, barely missing getting my head ripped off. As I slid I launched another ice spell into a loose scale, doing nothing more than getting it pissed of at me. I regained my footing, returning to my mad sprint.  "How much further do I have to go?" I asked frantically.

"One block," said Trevor, "and you better hurry, I can't see the shadow anymore."

"Clever girl," I said smirking, "she's not going to make this easy."

As I neared the end of the block, my shadow seemed to increase in size. I realized that it was going to attack from below. I jumped as an open mouth appeared beneath me. The mouth slowly engulfed around me as it rose out of the ground.

"Trevor," I screamed now truly panicked, "I could us an airlift."

'On it," replied Dash.

The beast was closing it's mouth as Dash zipped in an caught me, pulling me to the slightly safer field.

"Thanks," I said, "but here is comes."

The beast burst through the ground standing strait up, just looking at it's new prey with hunger in it's eyes. 

*End Music*

After a few moments of intense stare down, Applejack spoke up, "ah, how come it ain't attacked or moved at all yet?"

"I'm no sure," replied Andy, "any clues Dylan?"

"None, I'm as confused as you are," I said, "anyone else have an idea why?"

"I think I do," said Trevor above us, "just a long shot here, but it might be a guardian of some sort, and can't leave the town."

"That's probable," said Twilight, "in the old time some creatures would settle down in pony villages and act as guardians. In fact, some dragons still do it today."

"And a leviathan is just like a dragon of the sea," I added in, "you don't think?"

The group looked back at the leviathan in front of us, still looking with malice in it's eyes. Our theory, though out of the park, seemed to make sense at the moment. I knew that we shouldn't take any chances, but I had to try something.

"Pinkie, can I ask you to do something crazy?"

"Sure, I like crazy things, especially crazy parties, those are the best, oh, oh, and crazy candles on cakes that never go out, those are the best, and..."

"Pinkie, focus," I yelled snapping her attention back to her matter at hand, "I need you to put down your weapons, and walking towards the town." Everybody looked at me like I just asked Pinkie to commit suicide. Even Pinkie looked at my dumbstruck. "Hey, I said it was crazy."

"But not suicidal!" Said Luke.

"You just asked our friend to go kill herself!" Added in Rarity.

"Now partner, I know you're not crazy, but what you just asked just ain't right," said Applejack.

"Dylan, I've know you my whole life, and you would never toy with someone's life," said Andy, "so there has to be a catch to this, right?"

At least someone wasn't against me. "Yea, there is," I said calmly, "I was just thinking, if this thing is a guardian of this town, then it must be use to ponies. I just thought that if Pinkie went in without her weapons, that she wouldn't be attacked."

"But that's just a theory that we..." Twilight said.

"I'm good for it!" Said Pinkie energetically. She put down her weapons and walked towards the town before anyone could stop her. The leviathan looked at Pinkie as she approached, yet didn't attack her when she passed it. "See, nothing wrong here!" Then her front legs shook and her tail bounced. "Uh, oh."

Suddenly the leviathan shook as if it was in pain and let out a roar. It turned to Pinkie, who was able to jump back over the invisible borderline in time to dodge a giant bite where she was just standing. A second later, the Leviathan was back in the position, glaring at us with evil eyes. No, not evil, but pain struck after I took a second look at them.

"Guys, I think this thing doesn't want to hurt us," I said.

"Now why would you think that sugercube?" Asked Applejack.

"Yea, it just tried to make me into a pony cupcake!"

Trevor, Will, Alex and I shuddered with fear at the mention of the cupcakes. It received a questionable look from the ponies around us.

"Well," I began, "take a quick look into it's eyes, you can see not just anger, but pain. Also that roar just a second ago sounded more out of pain than of malice. Fluttershy, have you noticed it as well?"

"Well, um, yes I can tell he his in some sort of pain," said Fluttershy trying to gain some courage, "but I can't tell were it is coming from."

"I noticed that when it roared, there seemed to be a reflex from the upper back," added in Luke.

Good thing we have two animal experts. "Ok, this is how it's going to go," I began ordering, "Trevor and Dash, you two need to circle around that thing and find any irregularities. Twilight, Luke and Rarity, keep up a ranged barrage on that thing. Alex and Pinkie, your with me to distract that thing long enough to find the problem. Andy, Will, Fluttershy and AJ, keep the others safe and watch the shadows for us. Everyone got it. Ok. Break."

Dash and Trevor started to circle the leviathan as Alex, Pinkie and I rushed forward breaking off into individual distractions. The beast yelled in what I think was pain as it decided to come or me. As it sunk into the ground, I thought I caught a glimpse of something black reflected off it's back.

"Trevor, Dash," I said, "when it surfaces again, look about a quarter way down it's back, I think I saw something."

"Gotcha."

"Dylan, watch your left," came Twilight's voice through the communicator. I jumped to the up and with a little flame magic boosted myself about twenty feet in the air. Lucky I did, for the beast sailed right below me. I caught another glimpse of a small, black metallic object lodged into it's back.

"Did you see that?"

"Yea," replied Trevor, "that black thing. I think that's what causing this thing to go berserk."

"Pinkie, Alex, I think we found the object," I said, "lets regroup and try to dislodge it. We're running attack plan T."

"Roger that."

"Ookie-dokie-lokie!"

"Fluttershy," I said.

"Y-y-yes," came a weak reply.

"I'm sorry that I have to ask this of you, but I need you to stare that thing down."

"Um, I d-don't t-think I c-can."

"Fluttershy," I said encouraging her on, "we need your help. Without you, we can't help tis creature. It's in a lot of pain, don't you want to help it?"

"Oh, I'll be right there!"

I knew that would work. Pinkie and Alex caught up to me. We had to make a quick dodge left to avoid being eaten. The creature resurfaced just as Fluttershy arrived. Within a second she had the leviathan in her stare of death. We didn't know how long she could keep it up so we acted quickly. We dashed towards the beast's back until we got into position. Alex, with his now ingodly strength from training, threw me and Pinkie Pie into the air with one arm each. As we reached the tip of out speed Pinkie grabbed my arm, did a 360 spin, and threw me onto target.

"Go get him!" Yelled Pinkie as she mad he decent downwards. Halfway down Dash caught her so she would break anything.

"Trevor, I need one final boost."

"Gotcha," he replied. I felt a strong wind come from behind me, pushing me onward ignoring gravity. The wind stopped, letting me descend onto the back of the leviathan. I quickly ran up the spine looking the black metallic rod. I spotted it about ten feet ahead of me when the beast shook, setting me off balance.

"What's going on!" I said regaining my footing.

"Fluttershy passed out," replied Alex, "don't worry though, we got her. I say you have maybe less than a minute to pull that thing out."

"It's right in front of me," I said as I prepared a fire spell, "I'm gonna blow it out."

I shot the spell forward, aiming at the base of the rod. Next thing I knew, there was an explosion that threw me off to the side. Trevor caught me, but it only resulted in the both of us having a crash landing. The leviathan sank back into the ground as we got up. The twelve of us regrouped as the beast resurfaced, yet it didn't have the hate filled eyes anymore. They had been replaced with calm, thankful eyes. What happened next surprised all of us.

"Thank you heroes for freeing me," said the leviathan barely moving it's lips,"my name is Unda Pacem. It means Wave of Peace in your tongue. You may call me Unda. I don't know what came over me to attack the ones that will protect my little ponies."

"It was our pleasure," I said stepping forward. I introduced each of us before continuing, "do you have any memory of what happened?"

"Last thing I remember is defending my village from harpies. Wait, my village!" I turned around and let out a breath of relief when he saw that the village was still intact. "I'm happy that it isn't damaged, also that you all were smart enough to drive me out of it to protect it."

"Actually," spoke up Applejack, "we did it because we thought that we would have a better chance at defeating yah out here."

"Well," Unda said chuckling, "that's a good reason as well."

"Well," I said kindly, "may we enter Sacramareto in peace now?"

--------------------------

The group of us reached the middle of town to experience a different sight than before. The plaza was bustling with ponies buying and selling goods. We received a warm welcome. Apparently, before Unda switched sides, he casted spell to make it seem like the town was deserted as a final protection plan. After a little bit the group decided to split up. Andy, Twilight and I went to go get a boat to travel down the river with. We headed to the docks to see what we could get.

"So, what are we looking for?" Asked Andy.

"Well, a galley would be best," replied Twilight, "but we have enough for anything."

"A galley?" I asked with a questioned look on my face, "It seems a little small. I was thinking of at least a caravel."

"But a caravel is too big for only twelve of us."

"I think we could hire a crew with the extra bits the princesses gave us. Heck, we could buy a small fleet of Man-O-Wars with that money."

"Ok, ok, stop," said Andy stopping in his tracks, hands up, "Can you two speak a little slower? The only word I got was caravel."

Twilight and I looked at each other before laughing. "Come on Andy," I said, "we'll talk on your level."

After a few more minutes of discussing what ship we need to get, we decided to try to get at least caravel. We reached the docks and started asking around. We found out that there were no caravels for sale, but the shipwrights could build one within four days. I was surprised at the speed, since builders take at least two weeks back on earth to build a that size of a ship. We decided to have one built, we could use the time to prepare for the journey anyways. We paid the shipwright, and made our way back to the plaza. Halfway back we ran into Rarity.

"Oh Twilight," said Rarity, "we found a ravishing hotel to stay at. How long are we staying by the way?"

"A few days," replied Twilight, "the ship needs to be built."

"That's wonderful. There's so much shopping to be done here. Oh, where are my manners, let me show you to the hotel."

We walked to the hotel named the Stomping Stallion. Rarity had rented out six rooms for the party, and I made my way to mine. I was bunking with Andy, and we both just walked in only to fall on our beds. Within seconds we were out.

-------------------------

Five days later, on the deck of the newly built E.S. Radiant Dawn

"Raise anchor! Drop sails! Prepare for departure men!" I yelled to the rest group along with the extra ten ponies we hire to help. I had been appointed captain since I was the only one, other than the hired hooves, who had any experience sailing ships before.

"Is that really necessary?" Asked Will.

"Mate, I've wanted to be captain on a ship like this me whole life," I said slipping to my pirate accent, "and no land legged man will tell me otherwise. We're also loosing sunlight, and first sail at night is never a good sign to any seaman."

Will just shrugged his whatever shrug and went to check on the sails. I resumed my post on the helm at the wheel pedestal. Once more I slipped into my pirate tongue as I set the custom made captain's hat on my head.

"Men, colts, and mares," I said gaining the attention of my crew, "say your prayers and steel your guts, for today we set off into draconic lands! We set off now." I casted a spell the dropped the sails and Trevor added in the little wind magic he learned to set the ship forward. I smiled a devil's smile as we set off, getting more in the mood. I wasn't going to make this any less fun than it should be.

"Good bye heroes, and safe travels," came a voice from shore. I looked to see Unda Pacem waving, along with what seemed to be the town of Sacramareto.

The crew ran to the side of the deck to wave their final goodbyes. I waved my hat in the air chipping into the goodbye. Suddenly there was a loud explosion over the boat. Pinkie had fired off a firework in order to signal here 'Setting Sail Party' had officially started, and did we party the night away.

-------------------------

"Do what you want cause a pirate is free, you are a pirate!" I sang as I stirred the Dawn.

"What is that you're singing?" Interrupted Twilight, our navigator.

"Just a funny song from back home lassie," I replied pirate like. It had been two days since we left port, and I must say that this accent down to the key. "Twilight, dearie, how wide do you think this river is?"

"About four hundred meters."

"And depth?"

"Well, the hands say the deepest recorded was around six hundred meters."

"That's good, yet bad at the same time."

"How so?"

"We could easily be attacked from underneath by something massive, and not know it was upon us until it attacks," I said with a serious tone.

"That's a rather morbid statement."

"A pirate always prepares for the worst."

"I see your poi..."

"Captain, something's in the water!" Shouted Eagle Eye, a hired stallion, from the crow's nest.

"Blast my mouth," I whispered under my breath before yelling out, "Everyone, battle stations. Arm yourselves and prepare for battle."

Not even a second after finishing the deck exploded into pieces, sending man and pony overboard. I shielded my eyes from the splinters, but when I opened them before me was a hoard of... harpies? Harpies can swim? That was my last thought before the dived into the helm sending Twilight and I over the edge. Within minutes the harpies had demolished our ship. I grabbed onto Twilight and threw us on a loose piece of driftwood before I passed out from the instantaneous G's.

-------------------------

I woke up to find that it was now Luna's night. Twilight was sitting at a fire made out of drift wood. I noticed that Eagle Eye and Pinkie were there too. I slowly got up, getting the attention of the three ponies at the fire.

"Are we the only one's here?" I asked weakly.

"No," replied Twilight, "Alex and Will are out getting firewood and anypony else who they can find."

As she finished there was a rustling behind her as Alex and Will appeared from the bushes

"Any luck?" asked Eagle Eye.

"If you mean finding more wood, then yea," replied Alex as he dumped an armful of wood next to the fire. That's when I noticed that most of our personal weapons were there too. At least we could defend ourselves if need be.

"But the others," added in Will regaining my attention, "not so much."

The news deflated all of us, especially Pinkie. Her hair deflated fully and she wore the saddest face I've ever seen.

"I guess we're all shipwrecked then," I said grimly.
> Dragons
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	"So," I began as our shipwrecked grouped huddled around the fire, "what are we going to do?"

"We thought you would know oh fearless captain," remarked Hawk Eye.

"You don't have to be such a wise crack about it," said Twilight sternly to Hawk before turning to me, "but we were counting on you to have a plan Dylan."

"Well, I have a few courses of action we could take, but none start until morning," I said, "you all should get some rest, I'll take first watch."

The rest of the group nodded in agreement before setting off to bed. Luckily our sleeping rolls hadn't got to wet from the shipwreck. Within a few minutes the others were sound asleep. I grabbed by bow and threw a quiver of arrows over my shoulder. I walked over to the nearest tree and begun to climb. Once I reached a good height, I sat down on a brach and put my bow in my lap. I started to scan the area around us looking for any rising smoke. I couldn't see any, but I got a good look at the scenery.

We were surrounded by a pine forrest, that seemed to spread for quite some way. I river was a little bit north of our position, maybe a five minute walk or so. Towards the west I could barely make out a mountain range. I couldn't tell how far it was, but it seemed like quite a distance. After about half an hour or so looking around my attention was broken by a rustling below me.

"Who's there?" I asked as I notched an arrow, "Show yourself."

"Dylan, is that you partner? Where are yah?"

"Applejack?" I replied lowering my bow. I jumped out of tree and sure enough it was. "What happened?"

"I reckon I don't really know. One minute ah was under the deck of the ship and the next ah was waking up on the shore. Next thing ah knew ah say smoke rising so ah decided to follow it, and here ah am."

"So nobody else is with you?" I asked deflating a bit.

"Sorry sugar, only me," AJ replied head hung low.

"Ok. Well, camp is this way. We have a spare sleeping roll and you look like you could use some rest."

She yawned as I mentioned sleep. "Ah reckon ah do." We both chuckled a little.

We arrived back at the camp to see that the fire was still lit. AJ warmed up by the fire before heading off to sleep. I smiled looking at the sleeping bodies around me and went back to my tree. The next few hours went by rather quickly as I sat in the tree. It wasn't long until Alex came over to relieve me. I went back to the camp, unrolled my sleeping mat, and got some shut eye.

-----------------------------------------------------------

"Uh," I said as I got up. I took a quick look around, "great, I'm back in that room again." I had 'awaken' in the dream room were I had met Theseus before. I climbed out of the bed. As I did Theseus walked threw the door.

"Long time no see," I said, "you still resisting Prometheus?"

"Yes I am," my ancestor replied, "and I also brought a friend." Theseus knocked on the door signaling whoever was behind it to come in. The door open, revealing the last person I expected to see.

"Perseus?" I asked taken back, "You broke free?"

"Yes," he said with his head hung low, "I am sorry for what happened before."

"No problem," I replied waving it off, "you couldn't control yourself. Anyways, I needed a good fight and you provided it."

"You were not bad yourself," Perseus said lifting his head up, "I would be honored to fight you again."

"Same here," I turned back to Theseus before continuing, "so why are you visiting me. It isn't just to inform me that we have another ally on the inside is it?"

"Sadly, no," said Theseus, "I've come with another warning. Prometheus has convinced the dragons to fight against you."

"Wha-wha-what! How was he able to do that?"

"He took and hid some of their eggs and said that your party had taken them. He also sent the harpies to destroy your ship."

"Great, any other news I should know?"

"Well, yes," said Perseus, "he has allied with the creatures that are called changelings. Apparently their queen has some sort of grudge against the ponies that accompany you."

"Perfect, dragons and changelings," I said sulking into one of the chairs at the chess table, "is their any GOOD news that you have?"

"I know where the dragon eggs are and can tell you of their location," said Theseus, "and teach you some of the dragon's language so you can communicate with them."

I raised my head with a grin slapped across it. "That great. Maybe I can convince the dragons to help us."

"That was the plan," said Perseus, "I have to leave though. I feel that I will wake soon."

"It was nice to see you on more friendlier terms."

"Can you inform Luna that I am truly sorry for my actions before."

"She has already forgiven you."

Perseus let out a sigh of relief, "That's good to hear." He departed from the door in which he entered.

"So," I said turning to Theseus, "about the dragon's language?"

"Draconic?"

"Yea, want to teach me over a game a chess. I still owe you that rematch."

Theseus sprouted a grin. "You're on."

As we played chess Theseus tried teaching my the Draconic. I was having no headway. Curse my ability to not learn languages quickly. After a little bit more I was suddenly launched to the side.

"What happened?" Asked Theseus.

"I think they're trying to wake me up," I replied, "is there any other way to teach me?"

"Here," he said offering his hand, "memory transfer."

"Why didn't we do this to begin with?" I asked taking his hand. As soon as I did words and translations flew through my head. Along with the language, he provided the location of the missing eggs. The words continued to flow for roughly five seconds before Theseus released my hand.

"Thanks," I said after he let go, "sorry to leave so suddenly, but they need me." I closed my eyes letting my drift away from the ream world to the real one.

------------------------------------------------------------

"Wake up partner," said Applejack shaking me.

"Whaaaattt?" I asked grudging opening my eyes, "It's not even light out."

"Oh it is," replied AJ with a frantic look on her face, "and we're 'bout to have a major rodeo in a few seconds."

"What do you..."

I was cut short by a roar. I turned to the direction of the roar and woke up from what I saw. Silhouetted in the sun was the form of a dragon. At least now I knew why it was dark. I dashed out of my sleeping roll and grabbed my bow reading for a fight if need be. The others, now awake form the roar, were scrabbling for their weapons.

The dragon landed about thirty feet in front of us spewing an orange fire temporary blinding me. After my vision returned I got a run down look at the creature. It was about one story tall, and fifty feet long. It's orange scales gleamed menacingly in the sun. It's wing's were closed but I guessed they were about sixty feet or so in width. The others began to charge the dragon weapons drawn, but I was quicker, getting between them and the beast.

"Stop, stop," I yelled facing them arms out, "I'll handle this!"

"How do you plan on doing that?" Asked Will slowing down to a stop.

"Like this," I replied. I turned, now facing the dragon, "Hevur, forg'e mes fraqu. Mes nave qes Dylan Sparks. Watu qes uvez?"

The dragon gave a slight look of surprising seeing that I knew his tongue before replying, "Uve metus kidler Dylan. Mes nave qes Bludfevre."

"Etua nuwo weva uver equs rera." That took the dragon ever more by surprise.

"Uh Dylan," said Twilight approaching me, "are you speaking Draconic fluently?"

"Ecevur Bludfevre," I said Kindly. he responded with a nod. I turned to Twilight, "Yes, I am."

"How?"

"Ancestor taught me, now let me continue." I turned back to Bludfevre.

"Bludfevre, duve spekar Equestrian?"

"Yes, I do young human," said Bludfevre, "and before we continue, my name means Bloodfighter in your tongue."

"Thank you," I said.

"What did you just say?" asked Twilight.

"First I said 'hello, forgive my friends. My name is Dylan Sparks. What is yours?' He replied with 'you are most kind Dylan. My name is Bloodfighter.' In which I finished with 'I know where your eggs are. Excuse me.' Finishing with asking if he speaks Equestrian."

"Ok," she replied still shocked.

I turned back Blood, "Now, Bloodfighter, Prometheus was the one that took your eggs. I can show you were the eggs are, only if you promise to convince the dragons to not attack us while we cross your lands."

"I will try," said Blood, "but the eggs will help greatly is convincing them."

"Will you let us ride you to help find the eggs?"

"Yes," he said while lowering himself onto his belly making a ramp out of his arm, "hurry young ones, before one of my kin find us."

We climbed onto the dragon's back. I sat myself at the end of the neck. Surprisingly the scales didn't bother me to much, they were kind of a smooth softness. After our party of seven got into position, Bloodfighter spread his wings and took flight. I was right, his wings were about sixty feet. Once we reached what seemed to him a reasonable height, Blood turned his head towards me.

"Were are we headed young human?"

"I was told that the eggs are to the South-West, in the mountain range over there."

"Thank you," said Bloodfighter now accelerating at breakneck speed towards the range. It took all my strength to hang on, and I don't think the others had an easier time. After a few seconds of the acceleration we got our bearings again. I took the moment of rest to look at the scenery one more, mainly to see if there was any campfire smoke rising up. After a minute with no success, I turn to Twilight.

"Hey, Twi," I said getting her attention, "we have to use one powerful spell to crack open that mountain."

"Are you suggesting we use that one?" She asked.

"Yea, I think it's the only one strong enough to break the mountain to the certain depth."

"What spell are you two talking about?" Asked Alex.

"Well," I started turning to my curious friend, "it's called Belinde Meturado, and lets just say it's powerful enough to have an incantation time that requires two powerful magic users to cast and aim it."

"Wow," was the only thing that came from the others mouths.

"We are here," said Bloodfighter slowing down, "you better be right or I will drop you from my back this high up and eat you for breakfast."

Sure enough we were at the mountain range. "Dragons can surely fly fast," I thought to myself. I gulped as I walked a little further up the dragon's back, with Twilight right next to me. I turned my head to Twilight.

"You ready to do this?" I asked a little nervous.

"Yes," she replied, "you cast while I aim?"

"Yea," I replied turning back to the mountain, "lets do this."

I rose my right arm fully extended out in front of me. I pointed my index finger out and began whispering the incantation as I brought my arm in a full circle about a meter in diameter. When I completed that I began another to the bottom right of it. As I finish that circle I began to form another directly left of it. When I finished the circle, I trapped them in a triangle. I begun to form stars inside of each of the circles, finishing with connecting the centers of each together with another triangle. When the inner triangle was done I placed my palm in the center of the image that was painted before me and finished the incantation chant. When I did each tip of the stars lit up with a small orb of light. This took in all about thirty-five seconds to do.

"Twilight, have you finished your part yet?" I asked without turning my head.

"Yes," she answered, "the beacon areas have been placed. All you have to do is release the spell."

"You all back there ready to see something awesome."

"Ah hell yea!" Yelled Alex.

"Go for it partner," said AJ casually.

"Whatever," said Hawk-eye. Man I hate his nonchalant adittude.

"Go Go Go!" Yelled Pinkie and Will in unison.

"Ok," I said closing my eyes. I concentrated before yelling out, "Bolinde! Meturado!" I released the spell, letting the little lights at the tips of the stars shoot up into the sky. When they were out of sight, spots on the mountain lit up as well. We sat there fore a few seconds with nothing happening.

"I don't think it worked young one," said Bloodfighter.

"Patience," I said noticing lights returning in the sky, "here it comes."

The next moment a medium sized meteor crashed into the mountain at one of the lit areas. Soon another, then another, followed by another crashed into the mountainside. Five minutes, and fifteen meteors later, a portion of the mountain was none existent anymore. All that was left was a large hole that seemed to hold a lava pool inside.

I turned to my friends and took a bow while saying, "And that, my dear fellows, is Bolinde Meturado."

"By the gods," said Will stunned, "how do you know something so powerful?"

"Oh, that was only the first level," I said laughing, "you should see the fifth. That takes about three minutes to cast."

The others, including Bloodfighter and excluding Twilight, mouths hung open.

"Um, Bloodfighter," said Twilight, "I think I see the eggs in the center of that lava pool."

"Huh, what," replied Blood, "oh right, the eggs. Thank you young ones for helping me reclaim our eggs. I will take you to the council of elder dragons with post haste. Let me just gather the eggs."

Blood flew over to the pool and gather as many eggs as he could in his claws without risk of breaking them. Twilight and I also helped by levitating the rest of the eggs before flying off somewhere to the north, but sticking close to the mountain range. After a few seconds, were arrived at an enclave. On the peaks surrounding the enclave was a total of four dragons. One took off from it's perch and landed in front of us as we disembarked from Bloodfighter's back. It's scales wee a dark jade green color with a slightly light jade green wings and underbelly. It's eyes were surprising a navy blue.

"Bludferve, wasu diba biranga tese creatures haro?" Asked the unknown dragon.

"Tese crecaruses helido mena rakeva uso equs Gea'tudra," replied Bloodfighter.

"Uve acudes tese crecaruses helido uve," said Gea'tudra with rage, "hevia uve no henero!" 

"Um, Dylan, what are they saying?" asked Will.

"Well, the green one is wondering why we are here and Blood told him we helped find the eggs," I replied, "and the green one isn't too happy that he asked helped from us.

""You're going to have to tell us everything they say aren't you?" asked Twilight.

"No," I said casting a spell, "since I know it I can use the translation spell Luna taught us." A white light shone in my hand illuminating everybody's headset. "There, now you should understand what's going on." The dragons continued to speak in draconic, but now I didn't have to explain every little detail.

"But Gea'thunder," said Bloodfighter, "it is from them that I learned of the lost eggs location and saved our race."

"Silence Bloodfighter, we would have found the eggs that the giant one stole from us."

"No you wouldn't," I replied loudly in draconic shocking both the dragons on the ground and the ones still perched, "the eggs were hidden inside of a mountain that only could have been broken by a spell, and a powerful one at that."

"Who are you creature," said Thunder turning his head to me, "and how do you know our language?"

"My name is Dylan Sparks, a human, and descendant of Theseus," I replied proudly, "who was also the one who taught me this language."

"Theseus," said a silver dragon on a perch, "you are a descendant of my only non-dragon pupil?"

"What," said Thunder turning, "you have seen these kinds of creatures before Harbringer?"

"Yes," he replied flying down, "and I can say that humans mean no harm to us." Harbringer landed a few feet in front my me, bring his eyes level to mine. After a minute stare-down between the both of us, me laughed. "I see a great fire inside of you young human, the same that I saw in your ancestor two thousand years ago."

"Thank you," I said a little flabbergasted, "but I have something that I most asked for from the council."

"Go ahead an ask," said Harbringer, "you have earned the right after returning our next kin." Harbringer motioned for Thunder to return to his perch to hear me out. When they returned, I took it as my time to speak.

I took a few steps forward and clear my voice before speaking. "Elder dragons, I come before you today to ask a small favor in our quest. As you know, the titan Prometheus has risen again, and we have been assigned to defeat him. Our ship was destroyed, and our party separated. I ask for you to help us find our friends, and set off with us towards the west to fight Prometheus. Since I have returned the eggs that he has stolen from you, you are free of his control. I asked for a small favor, one that I wish from the depths of my heart that you will comply to. That is all." I took two steps back waiting for an answer.

Our group stood there awkwardly as the dragons debated in helping our cause. After a few minutes Harbringer flew down to us with what looked like a smile on his face. "Humans and ponies," he began, "I am happy to say that the elder council of dragons accept your alliance and are overjoyed to fly to battle once more." I let out a sigh of relief while the others let out a cheer. "But," continued Harbringer, "we dragons value strength above all else. In order to fully convince the council of elders, you must defeat one of our warriors in battle."

"Fine, I will do it," I replied without hesitation," but I want to find the rest of our party first."

"Dylan," said Twilight, "are you sure you want to do this. Trevor and Will are much better fighters than you."

"Yea man," added in Will, "you've never been able to defeat me."

"I know," I answered, "but I'm the only one with spells powerful enough to take on anything larger than a human. I don't think you or Trevor would have a chance with a dragon."

"Hmmm," pondered Will, "I guess you're right."

"I know. Now Harbringer," I said, "we are grateful for any help you can provide."

"No, thank you Dylan, descendent of Theseus, for returning our kin to us. I would be happy to assist in finding your friends. Remember though, once we have found them, you will fight for you're life."

"I know," I said with confidence, "now, lets go find the rest of our party."

--------------------------------------------------------------

*Thum, Thum, Thum* The steady wing beats of Bloodfighter and Harbringer filled the noiseless sky as we searched for our friends. For an hour or so we had been searching in the area that I thought I say a campfire. As i was still searching I heard Will yell from the back of Bloodfighter.

"I think I found them guys," shouted Will pointing downward, "over there in that clearing. I can see a few mounds that look pony and human like."

I looked in the direction that Will was pointing an sure enough there was a handful of clumps.

"That's them," said Hawk Eye, "my eyes never lie."

"Ok," I said, "Harbringer, Bloodfighter, can you take us down over there."

"Sure young one," replied Harbringer as he and Bloodfighter glided downward.

As we descended I heard screaming and yelling from below us. Suddenly I say to clumps shoot off of the ground towards us, one of which had a rainbow trail behind it. "Yea, that's them," I thought. The clumps came into view next to us revealing Rainbow Dash and Trevor.

"What's up guys," I yelled leaving there jaws dropped at the sight of us riding on dragons, "can you two do me a solid and tell the others that's everything is ok."

"Um, sure," replied a dumbstruck Trevor, "get on that right now."

After a few more seconds of dumbfoundness, he and RD flew down to tell the others. A couple seconds later our half of the party landed and dismounted off of our dragon friends. I took a quick look at everybody in front of us to make sure they were there.

"Lets see," I thought, "there's RD, Trevor, Rarity, Andy, Luke, and..."

"Hey," injected Will into my thoughts, "where's Fluttershy?"

'Um, over here," said a voice meekly from the trees. A second later Fluttershy's head appeared from a hole in a tree. "Are, the, um, dragons going to, ah, hurt us."

"No Fluttershy," I said, "they're friends."

"Oh, good," she replied coming out into the open, "I haven't seen a friendly adult dragon before. I could learn so much."

"There is time for that later Fluttershy," I said, "I have an appointment to catch."

--------------------------------------------------------------

"Wait wait wait," said Andy, "you're telling me that you are going to face a trained dragon warrior to the death. BY YOURSELF! AND YOUR EXCITED ABOUT IT!"

"Yup, that pretty much sums it up," I replied smiling.

The three hour flight to the dragon area gave our party a little time to catch up and tell about recent events. Apparently we had the better luck out of the separation. The others were attack by the harpy swarm that destroy the ship. They blamed Rarity's strong perfume. Now they are saying that they got the better end because of the dragon fight. We are currently standing on my side of the area, and all I'm getting is don't do this, or let me go.

"Yo, dude," said Trevor putting a hand on my shoulder, "I known you for a while now, you sure about this. I down for taking your place."

"No can do," I said addressing the group, " we all know that i am the only one who can defeat, much less even damage a dragon. Don't worry though, I'm not going to do anything too reckless. I will make sure I come out of that area alive, and with all my limbs. You'll might not know, well except maybe twilight, but I acquired some very powerful spells and created some as well after I fought with Perseus."

"Dylan Sparks," came Harbringer's voice, "you must now enter the arena and partake in your fight. You group can come up to the sides to watch the match."

"Well, that's my call to battle," I said turning, "see you all afterwards."

"Wait Dylan," Twilight said running to me, "take this. In case you use one of our tag team spells, this will let you guide it with ease." She handed me an amulet that i put around my neck.

"Thank you Twilight," I said giving her a hug, "you might of just saved my life." With that I walked out into the arena giving one last wave to my friends. I covered my eyes as I walked into the bright sunlight. After my eyes became adjusted, I took a look at my surroundings. I was on the side of a mountain, that was cut into what looked like an ampatheater shape. To the left of me was another entrance way that i could see a large blue dragon walking out of. The arena was mildly clear with a few rock piles scattered around. The other side of the arena was just a flat rock face the climbed to about one hundred feet about me. The dragon began to approach me, so i walk towards it.

"Hello young human," said the blue dragon in draconic, "my name is Coldfire and I am your opponent today."

"Greetings Coldfire," I replied, "my name is Dylan Sparks, descendent of Theseus."

"Theseus hmmm. There have been many stories of the human who could speak our tongue, and i see that his kin do not disappoint."

"Thank you."

"Warriors," Harbringer's voice called out in draconic, " this is a fight of honor. You will win if your opponent calls defeat, is mortally wounded, or killed. Any added wagers can be made now between the fighters."

"Well, Coldfire, I'm sorry but I'm going to win today, so you better call your defeat now before shit goes down."

"Hahaha. I like your spunk human. Tell you what, if you do win, I will join you for the rest of you journey and provide anything you need as long as it is within my power."

"Well, what is you win, what should I give you," I asked.

"I plan on killing you, so lets just say it's a life for a life," said Coldfire staring at me.

"I like it. You got yourself a deal. So lets begin." With that I used speed and jump enhance spells to start moving over the battlefield at inhumanly speeds.

"What, where did you go human?" Asked a now furious Coldfire as he darted his head around following the sound of my jumps.

"Right here," I replied and I shot strait towards his chest, "Steel Fist!" I hardened my right arm and upper-cutted Coldfire's belly knocking him off of his claws and into the air. "Take that you over sized lizard!"

As I finished my line Coldfire opened up his wings and started to hover right above me unaffected by my attack. "Oh, yea, most dragons can fly and are resilient to magic. Can't believe I forgot that."

"Feel my flame human!" Coldfire roared as a stream of fire burst from his mouth.

"Shit!" I rolled to the left barely dodging the flaming pillar of death. I got on my feet and started my pinball antics again dodging streams of flame as I flew.

"You can't dodge forever young one."

"Then I won't," I replied stopping dead in my tracks getting a confused look from my foe. I turned to him before saying, "come on, take you best shot, right here." I pointed to my chest with my left hand as my right rose up to face directly at Coldfire.

"You now seek I quick death," said Coldifre, "and I will be happy to grant it to you."

"I really hope the barriers I learned from Shining Armor can withstand a dragons flame," I thought. As Coldfire's flame left his mouth I manifested my shield. The two forces collided with each other making a giant ball of flame encompass me. I sat in my barrier for what seemed like a good minute sweating from the heat before the flame stop. I distilled my barrier panting.

"Very good young one," said Coldfire, "it take an incredible amount of magical strength to create a barrier that strong. I value your strength, but now I must end this."

"Hm, I was about to say the same to you," I replied getting back on my feet, "I think it's time for me to bring out the big guns."

"Nothing you can do human can damage me," said Coldfire laughing.

"Well," I replied teleporting above him and summoning a bastard sword and enlarging it with magic, "what about a giant bastard sword for the bastard of a dragon!"

"What," was all Coldifre could get out before the weight of he sword was too much for me to hold above my head and I swung it down into him with a great cleave sending him earth bound. The sword also sunk into his scaled causing Coldfire to let out a roar following by a blueish-white breath towards me.

"Oh shit!" I said dodging mid-air with a little help from some magic, "the hell was that." As the breath hit an outlining rock formation above the arena, a giant shard of ice formed around the rocks. "OK, note to self, do not get hit by the ice breath. At least now I know why he is called Coldfire."

"Human, prepare to die," Coldfire yelled letting out another stream of ice breath towards me.

"Crap!" I teleported back down to the ground only to have Coldfire follow me still breathing. "Shit shit shit!" I yelled frantically dodging the breath. "This is a lot faster moving than the fire," I noticed in my awesome running awayness to behind a giant rock.

"Now what to do, what to do, what to do?," I though as I sent a magic clone to run out in my place. "Ok, I have a moment to think. Lets see, I need to lock his movement down and finish this before i run out of magic reserves or get frozen. Wait lock that's it!"

"Stop running coward!" Yelled Coldfire now furious that I've done so well.

"Was planning on it," I said coming out from behind my rock getting a brief second of confusing from Coldfire as he was now seeing double. I pointed my right index finger to coldifre and yelled, "Gravita!" Coldifre's body shot down to the ground as if under an heavy weight.

"What did you do to me human?" ask Coldifre as he struggled to get free but couldn't move a inch.

"I increased your the gravity around you to twenty times it's original force,' I replied walking up alongside my foe," and I won't release it until you surrender."

"Insolent fool," Coldfire roared as the air seemed to shiver around him, "you think your spell can hold me. No magic can defeat a dragon."

"Crap," I thought, "he's breaking the spell, I have to use that."

I rose up into the air and turned to the others the were behind the magical field surrounding the arena. "Twilight," I said loud enough for the party to hear, "get everybody out of here now, I going to cast Bolinde Icolia Razugur."

Twilight nodded and teleported everyone away. I began to chant the verses to cast the spell.

"In the deepest pits of the underworld, were only fire lies, my the flames of the forgotten join the cause," I began

"What are you saying," said a struggling Coldifre.

"And from the deepest coldest reaches of space, may the ice fall from the skies to pierce the foe before me," I continued ignoring my adversary.

"Everydragon fly away now," I heard Bloodfighter yell in draconic, "we don't want to be in the area when he finishes this spell."

"What, what?" questioned Coldfire as he struggled, "no spell could harm a dragon."

"And from the deepest energies from within every being converged to strike with the force of mother nature herself," I said finishing the chant just as Coldifre broke free from his magical prison, "DESTROY MY FOE!" I shot my hand forward towards the blue dragon now flying at me. "BOLINDE ICOLIA RAZUGUR!"

From beneath Coldfire a pillar of blood red flame trapped Coldfire in an torment of fire. "Is that the best you got," Yelled Coldfire almost enjoying the flame.

"It's just begun," I said as ten colossus meteors of ice rained form the sky over a course of twenty seconds hitting the trapped dragon. As the last meteor began to fall down I began to glow. I put my hands together to form a triangle shooting out a massive beam of electricity. When the beam hit Coldfire, the last meteor struck as well. A giant explosion, with almost the same energy of ten nuclear bombs, went off as I put up my strongest barrier to protect myself before becoming engulfed by a white light.

To be continued...
> Aftermath
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Previously in One Soul, Two Worlds





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You know what, just read the damn chapter.








Five miles from the arena

*Boof*

"Ok, we should be safe here," said Twilight.

"Safe from what?" asked Andy.

"Yea, I wanted to see what Dylan had up his sleeve," commented Rainbow Dash.

"Trust me you don't want to be in the area when that spell finishes," replied Twilight.

"Well why the hay not sugercube?" Asked Applejack.

"Dylan said that the resulting explosion has the power of ten or so, what did he call them, oh yea nuclear bombs from your world," said Twilight.

"Wait, he casting a spell at a creature not even a one hundred yards away with the power of ten nukes?" asked Andy fearfully.

"Uh, yea that's what she dear," said Rarirty, "is that such a bad thing?"

The five guys looked at each other and nodded before turning back to the ponies. Will took a step forward and began, "yes, that's a really bad thing. In our world we have constant fighting and wars, though one in particular took the cake.

"This war," continued Trevor, "was called World War II. It encompassed pretty much the entire civilized world."

"Near the end of the war the nations began a scrambled called the nuclear arms race," said Luke, "from this the country we come from, the United States of America, developed the nuclear bomb first."

"And we dropped two of them on the apposing nation of Japan at Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Lets just say those cities weren't around for a few years," Andy said ending it.

There was a few seconds of silence before Twilight spoke up.

"You mean your world has weapons that can take down entire cities at once?" She asked.

Andy nodded in agreement. "Yes, now you see why we have to stop Dylan from..."

Before Andy could finish his sentence a white flash of light and explosion came from the arena nearly blinding the party.

"That was the end of the spell," yelled Twilight covering her eyes, "We're too late."

As Twilight finished her sentence the shock wave hit the party sending them flying and hitting the ground, knocking them unconscious. 

*A few minutes later*

"Ugh, is everyone alright," asked Andy getting up. As he looked around the others were getting there feet/hooves under them.

"Yea, everyone seems fine," said Luke. Fluttershy nodded in agreement.

"Good, now lets go find our crazy friend," said Andy as he start to run toward the mostly destroyed arena. "And hopes he's not dead," Andy muttered under his breath.

*One teleport later*

"My word," said Rarity, "Dylan did all this destruction by himself?"

Where the area stood was now a seventy-two meter crater that was about fifty meters deep. Rubble and debris was scattered everywhere. The party split up looking for their lost companion.

"No one could withstand this blast, not even a dragon," said Trevor after a few minutes of searching.

Just to prove him wrong a badly beat up Coldfire rose from a pile of rubble. One of his wings was broken and the thin skin was torn to shreds on both. He was missing his left eye and the right foreleg was bleeding profoundly. He eyed the party of ponies and humans and limped over to them.

"Where is the human called Dylan that did this to me?" Asked Coldfire calmly.

"W-w-we don't know," said Twilight near tears, "we ha-haven't f-f-found him."

Coldfire's face showed that of sadness. "He was a great warrior. To damage a dragon this much is no easy feat. If not for my above dragon like diamond hard scales and natural resistance to magic, that blast would of easily killed another dragon."

"Hey!" shouted Andy, "I think I found him!"

Everyone, excluding Coldfire, rushed to were Andy was standing. Sure enough there was a human hand sticking out of the ground.

"Dylan!" Screamed everyone.

"Something's wrong," thought Andy, "I don't see the air of death around here. Nor the sign of someone near death."

The group started to dig out the rubble. After ten seconds Rarity and Fluttershy let out a scream before passing out. What laid under the rubble was not the body of their friend Dylan, but that of his left arm up to the shoulder.

"Why, you son of a bitch, why you have to do it," said a now crying Will as Trevor and Rainbow comforted each other.

"I told him the spell was too much," said Twilight, "I should of convinced him to use another spell. Now he's dead, and it's all my fault."

"Who's dead?" I said.

"You are!" Yelled Twilight now balling her eyes out, "and all we have left is your stupid left arm."

I think Twilight thought I was some form of her imagination and didn't seem to catch that I was really standing there, but everyone else did. I signaled to them to them to stay quiet and see how long I could pull this off. Most shook there head in agreement except Rarity and Fluttershy who were still passed out. 

"Hey hey, at least you have the arm to bury me," I said patting Twilight on the back of the neck.

"But I don't want to bury him," said Twilight, "I want him to come back. We need you back, I need back. I think I, like you, but more than a friend like."

OK that last part took about everyone by surprise, including myself. I didn't know she felt hat way. Now I just feel bad for seeming like an apparition. I got on one knee, eye level with Twilight. She looked up making eye contact for the first time. I put my head against hers keeping that eye contact.

"Hi there," I said with a grin.

After a moment with our heads together and wearing a stupid grin on my face, Twilight broke our head contact and her crying was replaced with a deep red blush on her cheeks. 

"Wha-what, Dylan," she said flustered, "that was really you? The whole time?"

"Yea," I replied getting back on my feet still smiling, "I'm sorry that I made you feel terrible. I promise I won't do anything that reckless again unless I have too. Oh, thanks for finding my arm."

I walked over and picked up my arm. I turned to Andy and Luke before asking, "can either of you two help get my arm back on, I have a fight to finish."

The only reply I got was everyone's dumbstruck faces by what I just said. Luke nodded though and walked over to me beginning the process of reattaching my arm to my shoulder.

"This might hurt a little and while leave a scar," said Luke.

"That's fine," I replied shrugging, "it's not my first scar."

"Are yah sure yah want to continue the fight partner?" Asked Applejack with a look of concern on her face, "I don't mean to offend yah or anything like that, but we almost lost yah there."

"Don't worry, that was just a miss calculation on my part. I still got some magic to spare," I said the last part patting the amulet that Twilight gave me. I turned my head toward Coldfire who finally figured out that I was alive, "Hey Coldfire, old buddy, up for another round," I yelled in draconic with high spirits.

"Well young human," he replied in draconic limping over to our group, "the battle rules do state that the fight does not end unless one of us dies or surrenders." Coldfire took a quick look over his body before continueing, "but I am in no condition to fight, and you have proven to be my better, so I ask that you accept my surrender."

"I accept your surrender," I replied with a grin, "but don't forget our extra wager."

"I have not, nor shall I," Coldfire said bowing, "I am now ever under your command and you are free to take form my loot whatever you please."

"There," said Luke, "that should do it. Try moving your arm Dylan."

I put my right hand on my left shoulder and began to stretch my left arm by rotating it in windmills from the shoulder. After a few rotations I pumped by arm in and out with elbow, still keeping my hand on my shoulder. I wiggled my fingers a little bit and gave a few left jabs to finish it off.

"Good as new," I said smiling, "thanks Luke, your a real life saver. Or should I say arm saver?" I nudged him with my reattached arm. His response was simply a facepalm and shaking his head.

The other dragons, seeing that the battle was over with soared back down from wherever they when for safety. All the dragons but Bloodfighter and Harbringer looked shocked that a human could best a dragon, none less one bred for battle. Harbringer walked up to our party and those awake turned to face him out of respect.

"Good job little ones," spoke Harbringer in English/Equestrian, "you have proven worthy. We dragons will help once more in the fight against Prometheus."

"Thank you," I replied nodding my head once, "Can you provide us a decent sized ship to travel downriver once more."

"I can provide something better," spoke Coldfire signaling us to follow him.

Thirty minutes later in Coldifire's cave/home

"Wow," said Rarity," look at all of these gems!"

"Rarity, we're here for a ship, not for gems," Twilight said.

"But TWILIGHT," whined Rarity, "can't I take some of them?"

"You may take all that you want," said Coldfire overhearing the conversation. Rarity squealed with delight before dashing off to gather gems. Some of the others followed Rarity to scavage through Coldfire's loot, though with less enthusiasm than her. Twilight facehoofed from Rarity's actions before facing Coldfire.

"So where is this ship you told us about?" She asked.

"Here," replied Coldfire pointing to a strange ship.

"What in tarnation kind of ship is that," said Applejack.

"I looks like it would just sink in the water," added in Will, "the design is all wrong."

"It's not for the water human," said Coldfire.

"Than what is it for," said Twilight.

"It's an airship," replied Coldfire.

"That. Is. Awesome!" Said Trevor and Rainbow Dash together.

"How does a thing that big work, much less fly?" I asked looking over the ship that was about three of Coldfire or Bloddfighter put together.

"It is an old pony design," said Coldfire, "I don't have any idea how it works."

"Wait," said Twilight as her horn began to glow, "I think I read about these in a book." A small hole appeared next to Twilight as she continued her concentration to find the book. Suddenly an old looking book appeared from the void. It was bound in an old leather cover that seemed ready to fall apart. When Twilight opened the pages they had a hint of yellow in their coloring. As Twilight skimmed the book she stopped on a page near the end.

"Here we go," said Twilight, "this airship is called a Timoria Airship, it apparently was used in the Griffin Wars was a flying dreadnaught able to rain death and destruction from above. Apparently it is based off Griffon airship and is powered by magic. It has a reserve crystal to store enough magical power to fuel the ship for up to three months."

"That's good," said Andy, "at least we know we won't plumment to our deaths."

"It take two days to charge up with the magic of four unicorns though," Twilight read.

"Dang,' said Will, "so we're stuck here for two more days?"

"I don't think so," I said," it says four unicorns take two days, but it doesn't say anything about humans. We also have the the unicorn that symbolizes the element of magic itself so this might only take a day or even less."

"Dylan's right," agreed Twilight, "four normal unicorns take two days to charge this, but we don't have any normal unicorns here."

"So lets get this thing outside and powered up," I said, "Coldfire, Bloodfight, mind helping us get his ship outside?"

"No problem human, I mean Dylan," replied Coldfire. The dragons walked over to the ship, lifted and walked it outside before setting the dreadnaught down again.

"Hey everyone," I yelled so the rest of the group in the cave could hear me, "we're heading outside, I think you all should come too."

"I'll be there in a moment darling," replied Rarity, "I just need to gather these gems."

The group walked out of the cave and gave further examination of the flying dreadnaught. There were some wood panels one the outside, ok maybe a lot, but it didn't seem like that much work had to be done to get the hull in good shape. When we entered the ship though, the whole story changed. The first deck was in decent shape but a lot of he supports were rotting away and need to be replaced. Luckily the ceiling was about six and a half feet tall, meaning the humans in out party didn't have to duck while walking around.  What seemed like the main sleeping area was the under the top deck. It was quiet roomy, but almost all of the beds needed to be replaced. The kitchen had also seen better days as well. It needed to be fully refurbished along with the sleeping quarters. Along the outer edge of the floor was littered with slits that were probably used by the unicorns to shoot out magic. When we ventured into the final bottom deck we were surprised at what we found. The whole floor was in amazing shape. By now Rarity was with us again and clearly disgusted with what she saw  Very few supports were rotting, and the sleeping area on this floor didn't need to be refurbished at all. The power crystal room was at the front of the floor with the other two rooms behind it. The last room was rather large and had a few dummies and tables in it. We decided that this was probably the training/rec room of the ship. Overall, the ship needed to be fixed up, and fast too. We exited the ship before discussing our next plan of action.

"Well, Andy, Applejack, Rarity and I can work on fixing up the ship," started Will, "but it might take longer than the time needed to charge up the power core, so you and Twilight can take a little longer and rest between the charges."

"But first we have to do something about those awful sleeping quarter," said Rarity, "a proper mare can't sleep in those kind of conditions."

"Yea, we need somewhere to sleep for the next few days anyways so the quarters would be top priority," agreed Will.

"So we have a ship, and we have the dragons support," said Alex, "now what do we do?"

All heads turned to me for an answer. Man, sometimes I hate the whole "you're the leader" thing. I sighed before answering Alex's question.

"Well," I began, "now that we have the support of the dragons and a way to get to Prometheus with less risk than before, we're going to have to recruit more allies."

"Who did you have in mind?" Ask Twilight.

"The buffalos and the griffins," I said, "and I know who needs to go to each. Alex, Fluttershy and Pinkie will go seek help from the buffalos. I believe there were some near Appleloosa. Trevor, Dash, and Luke will go to the Griffin king and ask for assistance. They helped the last heroes and they might help us again, even if they might still be a little sour from the Griffin Wars."

"Both those trips could take few days to complete," said Twilight, "and we have a deadline."

"Yea, I know," I replied, "but we don't know if that deadline is tomorrow, which means nothing will matter, or a year from now, which mean we have all the time in the world. Also, we're sending our fastest to the griffins, and we can meet the ones going to the buffalo halfway on their way back in the ship."

"That would still mean almost a week will be wasted doing this," argued Twilight.

"It won't be wasted if we get two more nations to ally with us," I argued back, "trust me on this, it will work."

"Fine," said Twilight storming off, "do what you want, you're the leader who almost died from his last bright idea."

"I will," I yelled to her now frustrated. I calmed myself down before turning to the others seeing that they were holding back snickers. "What?"

"You two are acting like a married couple," said Andy. Blood rushed to my face after the comment.

"No we're not," I said defensively. My reaction caused Trevor, Pinkie and Dash to break out laughing at my embarrassment. "Ok, this meeting is over," I said quickly, "everyone know hat they have to do, so lets get it done."

"Can it wait until tomorrow?" asked Hawk Eye.

"Why?" I asked back. "I forgot he was still with us," I thought.

"It's almost sundown, that's why," he answered.

I looked up and saw he was right. Going over what happened today I wasn't really surprised it was this late. "Sure, everyone rest up, but we have to get to work first thing in the morning," I said, "everyone have a good nights rest, we're all going to need it."

With that the group meeting disbanded. My first thought was to find Twilight an apologize to her. After looking around the ship for a while a noticed a lavender glow coming from Coldfire's cave. I entered the cave and sure enough there was Twilight reading some old book she probably found in the head of treasure.

"Hey Twilight," I said as I entered the cave. She looked up, saw me and without any response went right back to reading her book. "Oh come on Twilight," I said siting next to her, " I'm sorry I yelled at you. I guess I was just a little stressed about what's gone on today."

"You don't seem like with all that smiling and jokes you've been doing," replied Twilight sternly.

I sighed before continuing, "Twilight, I almost died today, not once but three times in the battle, once because of my own spell. Hell, I thought when I first woke that I had lost my arm. I consider myself extremely lucky that I came out with only a scar around my left arm."

"Then why were you all smiles and laughs?" Twilight asked finally getting her head out of her book.

"Because that's how I diffuse situations like that. Imagine if I didn't stay calm, what do you think the others would have reacted?"

Twilight thought what I said over for a minute before replying, "yea, I think that Fluttershy and Rarity would have stopped this quest right then and there. I suppose that logically, you made the right choice by using humor."

"See, what I tell you," I said grinning now that Twilight didn't seem angry anymore. I lost my grin very quickly as I continued though, "but really, I've been exhausted since the fight ended. In all I've just wanted to fall asleep but I knew I couldn't because I still had some roles as Leader to fulfill." I continued to tell Twilight what the next plans of action were and she agreed with everyone I was sending away.

"You really are amazing you know," said Twilight after I finished, "to think like that with all the stress you had."

"Is that why you fell for me, my mental power?" I asked turning the heat onto her for now.

Twilight face became a bright rosy red before answering with a simple, "maybe."

I laughed at her respond, which just made her blush go away and a stern look appear on her face. Seeing that I had pushed a little to far I stopped laughing and shrugged a 'sorry didn't mean to' shrug. Twilight just shook her head and went back to reading her book.

"So, we good again?" I finally asked after a minute or two.

"Does this answer our question?" Twilight then proceeded to hug me, which I reacted by hugging her back.

"Yea that does," I replied. I began to yawn in turn breaking our hug, "guess the battle finally caught up to me. I need to get to bed. You coming?"

"In a bit," Twilight replied with a yawn, "have a few more things about the ship to read up on."

I finally noticed that the book she was reading was the book she was reading earlier. "Ok," I said getting up and walking out of the cave, "don't stay up to late, we have a big day tomorrow."

"I won't goodnight Dylan."

"Night Twilight," I replied as I exited the cave. I stopped and yawned again before noticing that Andy was leaning against a rock next to me. "How long you been there?" I asked him.

"Long enough to know your not stressed anymore, also that you and Twilight are good again," he replied, "maybe a little better than that."

"He, so a while then," I replied scratching the back of my head.

"Yea, I'm not gonna pry to much."

"Good, cause there's nothing to tell."

We both started laughing at our little exchange that meant more than what we said. I think only life long friends could have conversations like this.

"Come on, I found some decent beds on the second under-deck of the ship," Andy said, "Lets get some sleep."

"Yea, that sounds good right now. Lead the way oh non prying friend of mine."

We both laughed again as we made our way to the ship and our new beds.
> Nest of Problems
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	"Dylan, Dylan wake up man," I heard someone say as they shook me awake, "dude wake up this isn't funny!"

"What Will?" I said rubbing my eyes before opening them. My surroundings were a little fuzzy still as I looked around, but it didn't look like the airship.

"Dude, we're back on Earth!" Will said panicking.

"What!" I almost yelled snapping awake. He was right, we were back in our dorm room. I looked at the clock and it read that is was only eight. "How did we end up back here, I thought the gods stopped time here so we didn't need to come back."

"I don't know, I thought maybe you would."

"Nope, clueless."

"Well, at least only one night has pasted here while we were in Equestria," Will said sitting back down on his bed.

"Really," I took a look at my phone and sure enough he was right, "so the gods did freeze time here, but that doesn't explain why we're back before Prometheus is defeated."

"Beats me, I wonder is Trevor is here too." Just then we heard a knocking on our door. Will got up to answer it and sure enough there was Trevor, still dressed like he should be in bed. Will and Trevor walked back into the room both taking a seat on Will's bed.

"Guys any idea why are we back on Earth," said Trevor calmly.

"We were just discussing that," I stated, "and we have no clue as well."

"Shit," said Trevor, "do you think that the gods slipped up or something?"

"I don't think so," said a voice from the doorway. Luke, Alex, and Andy were all standing there. "I think we're in some sort of dream state sharing a dream or something," continued Luke, "that would explain why we're not in our dorm but our rooms look the same."

"I see," I said as the three entered the room and took seat in the chairs we had around. I took another look at the clock and saw that the time hadn't changed even though it had been at least five minutes or so since I woke up. "The would explain why the time on the clock hasn't changed, but now I'm even more confused on why we are here."

"That's because I've gathered you all here," said a voice before a explosion of smoke appeared in the center of the room. When the smoke cleared I say it was Theseus visiting me in dreamland, again. "I have something very important to tell all of you."

"And what would that be..?" said Alex trailing off.

"It's Theseus. My ancestor," I answered him before turning to my very old relative, "but what is the information you need to tell us?"

"The Elements of Man," said Theseus, "and what they are too you."

"The Elements of Man. What are those?" asked Trevor.

"The six Elements of Man are the human equivalent of Equestria's Elements of Harmony," said Theseus, "they are Courage, Wisdom, Strength, Compassion, Determination and Heart. I do not know who carries these elements or even if they reside inside yourselves, but each of heroes from when I came to Equestria exemplified one of the elements."

"If I may, what element were you," I asked.

"I was the element of wisdom," Theseus said smiling, "but that does not mean that you are it as well."

"How come the gods never told us about the elements?" Asked Andy, "it seems like a pretty big thing."

"That is because they can be used against you," spoke a voice from the door. In the doorway stood Zeus, arms crossed with a stern look on his face, "I thought I told you Theseus to never bring this up to them. We have no mortal records of their existence for that reason."

"I am sorry Zeus, but they have the right to know," argued Theseus, "if they can harness the elements power then their ability to defeat Prometheus will be even higher."

"But so will the chances of failure," Zeus argued back not stepping down for an instant. Theseus didn't reply back with words, only with a look of determination. Zeus sighed before continuing, "but if you six do find out what your Element of Man is, promise to never use it's power unless need be. They can be as unstable as the human mind itself."

"We promise," said all of us together.

"Now, your time here is almost done," said Zeus, "there is one last thing I must tell you. When you finally face Prometheus, and if any of the old heroes stand against you, do not hesitate to kill them again." Zeus looked at Theseus on the final line.

"I wouldn't have it any other way," agreed Theseus.

"We understand," I said standing up, "thank you both for you time, but Zeus, can I have a word in private."

"Certainly my boy," said Zeus. We walked out of the dorm room as the hall changed form. The dorm hall was nowhere to found, instead we were back in the void from before, "so what was it you wished to speak to me about Dylan."

"It's the whole patron god and goddess thing," I said, "I don't think it's going to work."

"Why not?" asked Zeus, "it seems to be working quite well so far."

"That's the thing, so far," I said, "but what if in the future we need help from another god or goddess that's not our patron, will they help?"

"Of course," said Zeus, "the patronization was mainly to give our patron a little extra boost in certain areas, like Trevor with the wings, Twilight with rationalization, and Will with his creative mind and work hands. Don't think that Ares wasn't watching over your battle with that dragon now."

"So that's why I was able to win, with Ares's help,?"

"Not all of it," said a voice from behind me which I was guessing was Ares. I turned around and sure enough it was, "you put on quite a show. I kinda just helped at the end to keep your sorry ass alive."

"Thanks for that," I said before turning my attention back to Zeus, "so I can count on the others help?"

"Of course," replied Zeus, "now I think it's time for you to return to your friends, it's time to get back to your quest."

"Of course," I said turning once more to Ares who had now come to his father's side, "and thank you once again."

"Yea, sure, just remember that I'm watching over all your battles, especially Alex," said Ares, "now wake up."

With that my eyes closed rather quickly and I could feel myself free falling. Everything was dark for what seemed like an eternity before I heard someone calling my name to wake up.

"I'm up Andy," I said sitting up and rubbing my eyes as he continued to harass me to wake up, "I'm up damn it."

"K, just wanted to let you know everyone's saying their goodbyes to the people who are leaving. So you better get out there."

"Thanks for the warning." 

I conjure one of my outfits walked to two floors out of the airship. I covered my eyes as I exited the ship from Celestia's sun. I saw the party had gathered a few yards away from the exit of the ship. I went over and said my goodbyes to those who where leaving. It seemed like Coldfire and Bloodfighter had decided to join the groups, with Coldfire going with Trevor's group to the griffon and Bloodfighter with Pinkie's group to the buffalo. Though much to Coldfire's demise, Fluttershy and Luke talked him out of going because of his injuries. Pinkie's group climbed onto Bloodfighter before he took off toward the South. Trevor's group took off into air heading North-East, but more North. I couldn't help but snicker a little as Trevor carried Luke on his back. After the two teams had left our view we turned our attention back t the airship.

"So, how are we suppose to get the supplies to fix this?" Asked Andy.

"Or the fabrics and materials to refurbish the inside of the god awful mess?" Added in Rarity.

"There are some newer sea faring ships that you could tear apart for the wood in my den along with so very fine gold furnishings I've gathered," said Coldifre, "here, I'll lead you to where they are." Rarity, Andy, Will, Hawk Eye and Applejack followed him leaving Twilight and I by ourselves.

"So, want to see if there are any rare texts in Coldife's cave to read up on," I suggested, "in all a few new spells could be nice."

"Sure," agreed Twilight, "Celestia knows I have read a book for a while, well other than last night."

"Yea, come on," I said as I motioned for Twilight to join me. We entered the cave hoping to find something that could help us.

Four Days Later

"Finally, it done," said Will whipping the sweat off of his brow, "it took a little longer than expected because somepony wouldn't stop fussing."

"I say," said Rarity, "though the ship is magnificent in itself, you don't expect a lady like me to sleep in something as damp and dreary as that. It needed the sprucing  I did."

"Not throughout the whole ship Rarity," argued Will, "it doesn't even look like a warship on the inside anymore, more like a luxury cruise vessel."

"Now who's arguing like a married couple?" I whispered to Twilight making her giggle a little. Both pair of eyes turned to me glaring. I just shrugged in response before laughing myself. I had to hand it to Rarity though, she did make the ship a lot nicer. I'm just surprised how she could turn old furnishing and random fabrics she found around Coldifre's cave into decorations that beautiful. Twilight and I also got to look around the den the past two days since we finished charging the crystal quickly. We didn't find any new spell books, but I did find a golden sheathed rapier I could use, along with some new newer light armor to replace what I had lost.

"So, are we ready to ship off now or what?" Asked Hawk Eye bluntly, "I've been bored these past few days."

"That's because you didn't help at all, you lazy bum," replied Andy, "all you've done is sleep and practice archery."

"Guys, don't argue," I said, "lets just load up and start heading towards the buffalos to pick up Pinkie and them."

"Yea, yea, whatever," said Hawk Eye boarding the ship.

"I wonder if either of the groups ran into trouble?" Asked Twilight with a worried look on her face, "we haven't heard back from either of them.'

"Don't worry, they're fine," I said looking up into the sky. I spotted a small dot that was getting bigger by the second. I watched as it got bigger nothing that is was a pegasus with a familiar color scheme.

"Is that Rainbow Dash?" Asked Twilight noticing what I was staring at.

"I think so," I replied. "Hey guys, get over here," I yelled to the others. The others gathered around just as Rainbow Dash landed falling over immediately and she didn't look like she was in good shape.

"Dash, Dash," said Twilight now panicking, "what happened?"

"Griffons...armed...took....barely....away," stammered Dash.

"What was that partner," asked Aj.

"Wait, I have a better way of finding out," I said as my hand became engulfed by a dim blueish-purple glow. I placed my glowing hand on Dash's head as here memories flooded into my mind. After all her recent memories entered my mind I looked up to the others and said, "When the group arrived to the Griffon capital they found the griffons were armed and attacked the group. They took Trevor and Luke, but not without a fight. Rainbow here barely managed to get away in time."

"We 'ave to go an help 'em!" Said Applejack.

"No, we stick to the plan, and Rainbow is in no condition to fight," I said, "Twilight and I will go and figure this out."

"Why only us?" Asked Twilight with a hint of nervousness in her voice.

"Yea why only you two?" Added in Will.

"Because we're the only two that can teleport out of there if things get too hairy along with our ability to take on a large group of enemies at once with our magic," I explained, "they also won't be expecting us to come so soon, and too appear right in their capital city."

"That's a mighty far way to teleport hon," said AJ, "you sure you can do it?"

"Don't worry Applejack, Dylan and I did some serious teleporting training with Celestia. We coould teleport from Canterlot to Appleloosa," Twilight said.

"Just be careful ok dears," said Rarity.

"Don't worry we will," I said calming the group down, "some on Twilight lets go." I gave Twilight an image of where we were heading, and the next instant there was a flash of light around us and we were gone.

"I hope nothing too bad happens," thought Andy.

One Crazy Far Teleport Later

"OK, we're here," i said looking around. We were in a city that looked like it was interwoven with a mountain side. On the other of the city I saw a large castle that looked almost like it was carved strait from the tip of the mountain. Looking up into the sky I noticed a lot of griffon air patrols in full armor.

"Dylan, I think we should get out of the open," said Twilight nervously.

"I agreed." We ducked into a nearby alleyway before continuing our conversation. "Twilight, you still remember how to cast that invisibility spell?"

"Yes, but why do we need..." Twilight sentence was cut sort hen she realized why we should do it. She cast the spell while I conjured a spell so we could still see each other. "Ok, it's all set," said Twilight.

"Let's go," I said. We started to walk but discovered a fatal flaw in out plan. Even though we were invisible, we weren't silent. Twilight hooves clicked against the ground every step.

"What should we do?" Asked Twilight.

"We fly with the wind," I said smiling. I started to conjure up the wind around up to lift us off the ground. Once we were airborn I spoke again at a whisper, "Twilight, do you have you're communicator on?"

"Yes, why?" Asked Twilight in a hushed voice.

"See if you can get in touch with one of the others, maybe their communicators are still intact," I said.

"Ok, give me a second," replied Twilight. She turned on her communicator and began whispering into it. "Luke, Trevor, are you there, if you are reply."

There was a few moments of silence before we heard some static feed through our headsets. "This is Trevor Twilight, what are you guys doing here?"

"We're here to rescue you," Twilight replied, "how's Luke?"

"He's fine but his communicator got smashed in the fight before our capture."

"I see, do you know where you are?"

"Yea, the castle dungeons. Be careful though, two of the old heroes are in the city."

"What," I said jumping into the conversation keeping my voice down, "do you know who?"

"I don't know who, i just overheard some of the guards talking about them being good or something."

"Shit, Prometheus got here first then," I said, "worst case is that we have to fight them, but we'll deal with that when the time comes. We're on our way to rescue you now."

"Ok, seen you then, Trevor out."

There was the short sound of static before the headsets became quite again. I turned to Twilight who was facing me before saying, "thing just got a lot more difficult."

5 Minutes Later Inside the Castle

"I can't believe those griffons," I said, "they were way too weak to be castle guards. At least now we know how to get to the dungeons." When we landed two guards came around the corner. A little hit to the back of the head of one and Twilight's sleep spell knocked them right out. I used my memory spell to figure the layout of the castle and we were on our way. We also ditched the invisibility since it was draining Twilight's magic reserves.

"Where do we go now?" Asked Twilight.

"Around the corner there should be some stairs leading to the dungeons," I said, "and be careful, it's been too quite in here. You would think there would be more guards patrolling."

"Yea, I noticed that too," agreed Twilight, "Canterlot Castle usually has guards in every hall."

"Then this is too easy," I added in, "but lets just free the guys first."

The rest of our journey to the dungeons was met with little resistance. We came across two more guards in the dungeon that were the key keepers. After a minute or two searching, we found the guys.

"Trevor, Luke," I said see them, "you two ok?'

"Yea," replied Trevor, "but we have to get out of here fast!"

"Why?" Asked Twilight.

"Because they somehow know you're here," said Luke, "and they're surrounding the castle as we speak!"

"Damn it, I knew this was too easy," I said unlocking the prison gate, "once we get outside, we'll teleport out of here."

"Why not now?" Asked Trevor.

"Teleport doesn't work very well when done underground," said Twilight, "it safer to do it outside."

"Ok," replied Trevor.

The four of us made our way outside coming across no guards in the process. On the way out we found the armory, and to our luck Luke's and Trevor's armor and weapons where inside. When we opened the front doors though everything going in our favor changed. In our way was what seemed like a legion of griffons on he ground and another in the air, all fully decked out with weapons and armor. At the head of the army were two humans,a male carrying a great axe and a female carrying a spear and shield, along with a griffon that was undoubtedly the king. If his full gold armor and crown didn't give it away, what he said definitely did.

"By my word as king, you humans and single pony are hereby put under arrest for working with the great evil name Prometheus. Surrender your weapons peacefully and no harm will come to you," said the Griffon King.

Wait. WHAT! He thinks we're working with Prometheus. Maybe we can clear this up. I took a step forward, right hand on my rapier and left hand up in a signal as I mean no harm.

"Your majesty, you have been deceived," I said, "we do not work for Prometheus, we are here to stop him. My name is Dylan Sparks, and these are Trevor, Luke, and Twilight Sparkle. The last being a bearer of an Element of Harmony. The two besides you are the ones working for Prometheus."

"He lies your lordship," said the woman, "do not trust one with a silver tongue." I don't lie, the silver tongue thing on the other hand.

"Trust us," spoke up Twilight, "I am the star pupil of Princess Celestia of Euestria, and here is my proof." Twilight pulled out here Element of Harmony tiara and showed it to the king. His reaction was that of surprise before he recomposed himself.

The female whispered something in the kings ears before he replied. "That does look like the element of magic tiara Celestia showed me on our last visit," he said, "but how do I know you didn't steal it or that it's a fake."

This is getting no where, if only I could prove we were with Celestia. Wait that's it. "Guys, I need to get to the king," I said, want to keep them busy. We're about to escalate this into overdrive."

"Hell yea," said Trevor with a grin letting his wings open, "I call being air support!" He flew up into the unsheathing his twin longswords looking like the war angels of old.

"I'll back up Twilight on the ground," said Luke.

"Lets do this," I said running forward unsheathing my rapier and conjuring up a fire spell in my left hand.

"Crimson Whirlwind!" I heard Trevor yell above me. The next thing I know I see dozens of griffons fall from the sky.

"Firara Furgago!" I heard Twilight yell behind me. A dragon of flames suddenly appeared next to me, flying forward to the left flank of griffons.

"Attack!" Yelled the Griffon King. The griffons on the ground let out a war-cry as they charged me and the flame dragon, the distance getting ever shorter. I noticed that the humans weren't going forth but staying put with the king. Then the griffons let out their own war-cry after recomposing themselves from Trevor's attack. I took a quick look up to see Trevor completely surrounded but still dropping them like flies before looking back down toward my objective.

"Shit," I thought, "if this continues the griffons won't be much help to us." Then the gap closed, Twilight's dragon getting the first hit. Dozens of griffons in front of me screamed out in pain as their bodies were engulfed in fire. I leaped over them stabbing my rapier into the nearest griffons head before casting my spell.

"Shildal Fira!" I yelled. My body became engulfed by a purplish-white flame. It did not burn me, but I couldn't say the same for the griffons around me. As there bodies burned the others realized that I couldn't be touched anymore. I heard griffons around me screaming orders not to touch the flaming human and focus on the lavender pony and her friend, but that didn't stop me. I began running forwards through any foe that was foolish to get in my way, stabbing my rapier into griffons left and right, letting others burn to a crisp. I heard a yell above me. I took a second t stop and look up, and gasped at what I saw. Trevor's right wing had been cut off, and he was now falling to the ground.

"Winra!" I yelled letting the wind carry me into the air. As I approached my falling comrade, I dropped my fire shield and sheathed my sword. I barely managed to catch Trevor, but when I did I teleported to Twilight, who was also getting pushed back. When I arrived back to were we had begun, I quickly conjured a barrier around us.

"Luke, get over here!"

"What happened?" He asked seeing Trevor.

"One of those bastards wing blades caught me in the wing," Trevor replied,grinning, "didn't even see 'em."

"Can you help him?" I asked keeping the barrier up from the attacking griffons but letting Twilight shoot beams of magic.

"I need medical supplies from the ship," said Luke, "if I can get back to the ship he'll live."

Crap, that means we're either going to retreat and lose the griffons support or I'm going to have to fight by myself. I made a quick decision. "Twilight," I said sighing, "get out of here. Teleport Luke and Trevor back o the ship."

"What about you?" asked Twilight.

"I can buy you a few moments to channel the energy to teleport the three of you that distance," I said smiling, "but i'm going to have to drop the shield in order to do it."

"No, we're not leaving you behind," said Luke, "we're all in this together."

"Don't worry," I said still smiling, "I'll rejoin once this mess is over. Twilight, prep the spell."

She was almost on the verge of tears. "You promise."

"Yes, I promise Twilight," I said facing her on one knee, "now be good and get them out of here." I stood up and took a deep breath. I folded arms over my chest before shooting them out to either side of me resulting in the barrier to expand sending griffons withing a hundred feet of us flying. The barrier died down as I prepped two more spells in my hands.

"The barrier is down," I heard  griffon yell, "get them!"

"Nobody. Hurts. My. Friends!" I yelled, "Figara Metesto!" I large pillar of flame surrounded myself and the party burning a five hundred foot radius of griffons around and above us. After the flames died down only a handful of griffons remained, and they began fleeing from the battlefield. I fell to my knees panting before turning my head. "Go!" I yelled to Twilight. Twilight nodded before a flash of light. I covered my eyes with my left hand and when I moved it the three were gone.

"What just happened!?" Yelled the Griffon King towards me, "Where did they go!?"

"Someplace far away," I said standing up. I grabbed the amulet that Twilight gave me and pulled all the magical energy from in to replenish what I had just used, "so where we're we?"

"You were killing my soldiers," replied the king.

"No I mean before that."

"You were trying to convince me you were with Celestia, but now I don't believe that one bit."

"I know a way that could though."

"And how is that?"

"I'll show you the memory of the two besides you."

"You will do no such thing villain," spoke the female.

"Why not let the king speak for himself?" I asked, "or is that to much to ask my dear Atlanta?"

She was taken aback at the name I said. "How do you know my name?"

"Because the only female hero of old that came to Equestria was Atlanta," I said grinning, "and this is were we say hello, and goodbye." I shot a fireball forwards towards her. She was still in shock so didn't notice what was coming to hit her, but her friend did. The man leaped across and pushed Atlanta out of the way with ease. He proceeded to pull out his axe and block the fireball, making him skid backwards a few feet.

"You dare attack the heroes that will save us so boldly villain," yelled the Griffon King, "know your place."

"Oh shut up," I said now completely disregarding making the griffons into our allies by speaking. The man began to approach me twirling the large axe in his right hand with ease that no normal human could do. Wait, he's buff and strong, I facepalmed when I put two and two together.

"Finally figured out who your facing?" Asked Atlanta a little to cocky.

"Heracles, the most famous hero of the Greeks, and the best," I said groaning, "out of everybody, why did it have to be him?"

"Because I'm the only one that could do this," he said speaking for the first time. He rose his left had that wasn't holding the axe and brought it down on the Griffon's King head. I heard the distinct sound of bones breaking before watching the king fall down limp. I knew that the impact had instantly killed him.

"You beast," I said rage building inside of me, "no one deserves a death like that. You are not even worthy to hold the name Heracles." I began to unsheath my rapier.

"We want no of that now," said Atlanta waving her finger, "we want to witness you fight a little more." With that bodies began to rise from the ground, old griffons along with some pony corpses in armor began to rise. Some of the griffons we had just killed began to rise up and take arms.

"Damn it," I thought, "it's just like Canterlot."

"Do you like our pawns, no matter what you do, they will rise again and again," said Atlanta laughing, "we've killed two birds with one stone here today, we had you annialate the griffon army today as well as show us your strength.

I sunk my head down as I conjure up an unsheathed katana in my right hand and it's sheath in the other. "Giving up are we," continued Atlanta now laughing like a mad person, "at least you know your limits. Hey, how about this, if you join us now we won't hurt your friends until they arrive at our doorstep. We also won't kill you."

I rose my head up with a newly determined look that seemed to scare Atlanta. "what happened to you two?" I asked.

"What do you mean?" Asked Heracles.

"What happened to your pride of being a hero? The heroes that I've read about and looked up to would never act like this. Where is you honor? Where is your pride?"I asked now on the verge of tears. I yelled out the last part, "WHERE IS YOUR HEART!?" At this point I began to glow as tears rolled down my cheeks as I thought of the useless violence that had occurred today for nothing.

"What, what's going on?" Asked Atlanta now even more in a panic. I looked at the foes that surrounded me before locking Heracles dead in the eyes letting the tears stop and dry away. I sheathed my sword and took a deep breath never letting my eyes leave contact with Heracles.

"Atlanta, it's time we leave," said Heracles calmly.

"No, we can win," she screamed letting fear and madness now take over her, "everyone. ATTACK!"

The undead griffons and ponies charged at me. I took another breath before speaking. "Quick-draw style, third form, thousand leaf dance." In the eyes of Atlanta and Heracles I disappeared to the left, with the sound of wind rushing through the undead forces. I reappeared in an instant to my foes on the other side with my sword barely drawn. I sheathed my sword, and when I did the forces behind me be a fountain of blood. I had cut all of my enemies heads off, the only true way to kill zombies.

"How, that's," stammered Atlanta, "no normal human could do that."

"Good thing I'm not normal," I said realizing where my power had come from, "I'm just like the original heroes of old. I am an Element of Man. To be exact, the element of Heart."

Heracles grabbed Atlanta before saying, "Odysseus get us out of here." There was a sudden flash of light and when my vision had cleared Heracles and Atlanta were gone.

"Guess that means I should get back too," I said still a little adrenaline pumped from the battle. I closed my eyes, set my mind on the deck of the airship and a channeled my energy. When I opened my eyes I was on the ship with Twilight, Luke, AJ and Rarity running towards me.

"What happened?" asked Twilight.

I had a solemn look on my face as I broke the news. "the griffons won't be helping us," I said, "the man and women who were there was Heracles and Atlanta. They killed the griffon king after we killed off the army. The griffons empire is now in ruins."

"Are you hurt?" Asked Luke, "you seem pale.

"Don't worry abou..." The world began to fade to black before I was able to finish my sentence. The last thin I remember was hitting the ground then passing out.



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Yea, new chapter.

The Elements of Man have finally been announced. Who is what element? Did I actually discover mine? And what elements where the original six?

All this and more will be reviled in later chapters of One Soul, Two Worlds!
> The Return
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	"Where am I," I said opening my eyes. It only took a second to realize I was back in the rift between worlds, yet no one was there. "Hello, anyone here?"

"I am here," said a voice behind me. I turned an saw it was Ares.

"Hello Ares," I said bowing before continuing, "what do i ow this honor for?"

"That was a hell of a fight you gave out there kid," said Ares chuckling a little, "up to par with a warrior with my blessing."

"What, happen? Did my friends make it out?" I asked not remembering what took place after my friends took off.

"You don't remember?" Asked Ares with a shocked face. I shook my head before he continued, "you mean you don't remember killing all the griffon zombies? Or the Griffon King's death by Heracles? Or using an Element of man?"

"Wait what?" I asked my attention now fully focused, "what was that last part?

"The Griffon King died by Heracles?"

"No, after that."

"You used an Element of Man?"

"Yea, that one. Which one did I use?"

"We are not entirely sure Dylan," said Zeus as he appeared next to Ares, "we believe it was heart, but we can't be sure until you wake up."

As Zeus spoke, the memories of the battle flooded back into my mind. "Well, when would that be?" I asked.

"We're not sure kid," said Ares, "you burned a lot of mana during your fight. It's actually a surprise that you were able to teleport back to the airship, much less still be living."

"Wait, I almost died!" I panicked as I stood up.

"Yes, you did," said Zeus, "that is one of the reasons why I did not want you knowing about the elements. If used for the wrong reason when first activated, it will kill the wielder."

"Does that mean I can now wield it since I'm alive?" I asked calming myself down.

"You are not alive yet," replied Ares.

"Ok, well, I have one favor to ask of you Zeus."

"What ever it is, if it is within my power I will help."

"Can you call Celestia and Luna here," I said, "I want to tell them personally the fate of the Griffon King."

"I can do that." With that said Ares and Zeus disappeared into thin air. Not even a second later Luna appeared, quickly followed by her sister.

"Dylan, what is so important that you needed to call us to the rift before sending a letter."

I took a deep breath and told them all about what had happened at the Griffon Kingdom. They listened intently as I spoke and teared up when I told them of the King's faith and of the griffon army. When I got to the part of the elemnt they both gasped but quickly got teary eyed as the story continued. As I finished Luna was on the verge of tears while Celestia had somewhat tried to recompose herself.

"I see," said Celestia, "Garlek was a good friend and pleasant company. We will mourn his passing along with the fall of the griffon kingdom. Thank you for telling us this in person."

"Once more, I am sorry that it had to be this way," I said with sorrow in my voice, "it was our only option."

"We understand," spoke Luna, "and thank you again."

"Oh," said Celestia,"can your party return to Canterlot for the time being, there is something that we found that we can only give you in person."

"Sure, I'll let the others know." With that the two sisters bowed their heads, turned, and disappeared as Zeus reappeared.

"It seems that your friends had done some good," he said, "you can now return."

"Thank you," I said. Something hit me though, "oh, before I leave I have one more request..."


--------------------------------------------------------------------------



"Dylan, Dylan," I heard as I groaned, "everyone, Dylan's waking up!"

I heard the sound of hoof/foot steps as I slowly opened my eyes. The first thing I saw was Luke leaning over my casting some sort of healing spell on my chest. He stopped for a moment and when he did I groaned again from the pain.

"Sorry," said Luke as he recasted the spell.

"What happened?" I asked groggily.

"We were hoping you could tell us that partner," said Applejack as she entered the room followed by the rest of the group including those who went to seek the aid of the buffalo, "you've been out like a light for a few days now."

"Really, it seems more like a few minutes," I replied trying to sit up. Luke stopped me and pointed to my chest.where a huge gash had formed near my heart. It took me a minute to register what was there and when it did, all I could say was, "Where the hell did that come from?"

"We thought you would know," said Twilight appearing at my side, "what happened after we left."

I explained everything that I remembered about what happened after I sent the others away to those in the room.. The death of the Griffon King, who the humans were, and how they had powerful magic as well. I put in detail about the element and included my chat with Zeus and Ares. When I got to the princesses did Twilight stop me.

"What did the princesses say?" Asked Twilight.

"They grieved for the loss of their friend, but there was one more thing," I said, "they want us to come back to Canterlot. Apparently they have something for us that they can only give to us face to face."

"Well then," said Twilight smiling, "shall I plot a course to Canterlot, Captain?"

I replied smiling as big as her," that would be our next destination, oh fearless navigator."

At our little wordplay to each other the four of us in the room let out a laugh. After the laugh ended Applejack and Twilight left the room, the previous going to inform the rest of our group that I was up, and Twilight to do her duty as navigator. Luke stayed behind to help me regain my bearings as I stood up.

"Thanks," I said leaning on Luke's shoulder," I guess it's time to see everyone else."

"Yea, that sounds about right," he replied smiling.

As we made our way towards the top deck Luke filled me in on the situation with the the buffalo tribes. They had agreed to help without any compensation or challenge. It seems sending Pinkie and Fluttershy was a good choice, even if Pinkie tried to throw a alliance party that the chief wasn't too excited about. Luke said that Pinkie got in her western outfit again and tried to sing.

"That sounds like something Pinkie would do," I said laughing.

"Hey, Dylan," said a voice behind me that I recognized as Rainbow Dash, "how ya feeling?"

"Pretty good," I said as Luke helped me turn around, "still a little sore and dysfunctional. Other than that, I'm in tip-top..." My sentence got cut off as I crouched over and started to cough heavily. When the fit was over I looked up to see RD and Luke with worried looks on their faces.

"Are you sure you're ok man?" Asked Luke.

"Yea, you still seem under the weather," added in Rainbow Dash.

"Ok, maybe not tip-top shape, but still well enough to move around," I replied, "anyways, some fresh air wouldn't hurt. Also I need to talk with Rarity about my armor."

"Yea, ok," said Rainbow as she flew under my other arm as another support, "but that doesn't mean that you can fall down on the way there."

I smiled at Dash and thanked her for the help. We soon made our way out unto the deck of the ship. I covered my eyes with my right hand as they adjusted to the light. When I could finally see, I noticed everyone hard at work keeping the ship afloat. What I wasn't expecting to see were several royal guards working on the ship as well.

"Hey, when did the guards get here?" I asked Luke.

"I'm not sure, I haven't been above deck since you got back."

"They showed up yesterday," said Rainbow Dash, "none of us knew why they came or how they knew where we were, but they've been a real big help. Twilight just filled us in though on whats happening. Gonna back to Canterlot to get some mysterious item or something?"

"Yea," I said, "something like that." 

I then noticed Rarity on the other side of deck. I nudged Luke and Dash pointing over to Rarity talking with a guard signalling that I wanted to speak with her. We made our way across deck toward the fashionista, who caught us in the corner of her eye and excused herself from her previous conversation.

"Good afternoon Rarity, "I said.

"Good afternoon Dylan, Luke, Rainbow Dash," she replied, then noticing my wounds, "are you sure you should be walking around right now darling. Those wounds look hardly friendly."

"I'm good, I need the air," I replied smiling, "and anyhow, Luke's here as a support."

"I'd be kinda a bad doctor is I let my patients hurt themselves again by walking," said Luke with a lighthearted laugh.

"I see, now what was it you wanted to talk about dear," said Rarity.

"Well, I wanted to know if you could make me some more leather armor," I said sheepishly, "my old ones are kinda in ruins."

"Why of course darling, I would be delighted to," Rarity replied, "though I would like to wait until your wounds fully heal, how about when we get back to Canterlot."

"That sounds good," I said partially excusing myself, "now if you don't mind, I need to go get some rest."

We said our goodbyes to each other as Luke and Dash helped back down below deck into the ships sleeping quarters. They helped me lay down gently onto one of the cots, but my chest still acted up as I lied down.

"Thanks for the help," I said to Luke and Dash.

"No prob," replied Dash.

"Yea, don't mention it," added in Luke, "just get some rest, you're going to need it."

"Ok, thanks, night." I closed my eyes and was snoring faster than they could reply.

"Same old Dylan," said Luke, "out like a light."

"Lets get back up deck," said Dash as they left, "they might need more help."

The Next Day

"Mmmmm," I moaned as I stretched getting up. The first thing I noticed was the light coming through the porthole on my right. 

"You sound well rested."

I jumped back from the sudden voice from my left, falling off my bed in a mess of sheets and myself. I heard the voice start to giggle as I untangled myself.

"Damn it Twilight, don't do that," I said now fully out of my sheets, "and yes I am. I finally didn't have some crazy dream talk with anyone or thing."

"That's good to here," replied Twilight," you might want to change, breakfast will be ready in a few minutes. Rarity's cooking today." With that she started to walk out of the door.

"Thanks for the heads-up," I said noticing my current attire, "I'll be out in a sec."

"No problem," Twilight replied over her shoulder before closing the door behind her with a firm kick from her hind leg.

"Ok, now what am I going to where today..."

2 minutes later in the mess hall area

"Morning everyone," I said waving as I entered the mess hall. I was greeted with a warm good morning before everybody went back to their breakfasts. The whole gang, including most of the ponies that just showed up out of the blue  were there. I got some food before taking a seat at a table with AJ, Will, Hawkeye and two of the new ponies, setting myself between Will and Hawkeye. Applejack and the two other ponies sat across from the table.

"Morning Dylan," said Will, "good to see you back among the living."

"Cut that out," said Applejack to Will before turning to me, "we're happy to see you up and about again partner."

"I'm glad to be up Applejack," I replied. I turned my attention to the two ponies introduction myself, "good morning, I'm Dylan Sparks, and who might you two be?"

"I'm Rose Petal," answered the rose colored mare," and this is Sky."

"Hey," mumbled the blue mare through her food.

"Show some manners Sky," said Rose sternly, "sorry for that, Sky usually isn't this rude."

"No problem," I replied taking my first bite of the food. My meal continued with small talk and me getting up to date with whats been going on. Apparently I had missed a lot more then what Dash and Luke told me yesterday. We were attacked three times while I was asleep, once by the remnants of the griffon army and twice by harpies. The first attack came right after we took off for Canterlot, before the reinforcements arrived. After finishing eating I took my leave and ventured to the top deck and got some air. I saw cold fire gliding next to the ship and signaled him. He noticed it and flew in closer. I jumped unto the back of his next before he sailed away form the ship once mroe.

"Something you wish to speak about?" Asked Coldfire.

"Nothing important, just wanted to check up on you," I replied, "how's the leg and wings."

"Wings are back to normal," Coldifre replied, "but I don't think I will ever walk normally again."

"I still feel bad that I did that to you," I said somberly, "I still wished that you took up my offer to heal it."

"Don't let it bother you," he replied with feeling, "it was my choice, and I see it as a reminder of why I follow you now."

"So, no hard feelings or secret plans to kill me," I said jokingly.

"None young one, none at all," replied Coldfire laughing heartedly.

"Lets just enjoy the breeze shall we?"

Coldfire's silence was all I needed as a reply. We flew together for a while just enjoying the mid-morning coolness. After a while I heard my name being called form the deck of the ship. I looked to see Twilight calling me, with Dash and Trevor behind her. I pointed it out to Coldfire and he brought me closer to deck. As we approached I saw a hint of fear in Twilight's eyes and composer.

"Twilight, what's wrong?" I asked dismounting off of Coldifre, who stayed within earshot to hear what was going on.

"I don't know," she replied, "Dash and Trevor found something a little unnerving when the went ahead to Canterlot.

"What was it?" I asked now turning my attention to the two behind Twilight.

"That is it, we don't know," replied Trevor.

"What do you mean you don't know?" I asked now puzzled and slightly angry.

"When we approached Canterlot to let the princesses know that we were almost here, we were suddenly back on the deck of the ship," said Dash, "no magic feel, barrier, or anything, just 'POOF!' and we're back."

"That doesn't sound right," I said, "if there was magic you should have felt it."

"That's what I said," added in Twilight, "but you two are sure you felt nothing?" Twilight was answered by Dahs and Trevor just nodding in agreement.

"I don't like the sound of this," I said now alert, "get everyone ready for a fight, or worse."

"Yea, lets go," said Twilight. Within minutes the ship was in battle ready mode, right as Canter came into view.

I used magic to increase my voice before speaking, "Ok, I know I haven't met a lot of you yet, but Rainbow Dash and Trevor here say that something isn't right with Canterlot, so be prepared for anything."

I turned to see Canterlot nearing quickly. As we sailed closer to the city a strange shiver went through my spine, yet when we entered the city limits, nothing happened. False alarm? I thought. We touched down where in one of the courtyards where there was room for the airship.

"Ok," I began once more, "I want the soldiers to stay here. Coldifre, I want you too stay here too. Hawkeye, you're in charge of the ship while we leave."

"Eye, eye captain."

"I shall stay to guard the ship young one."

With that the mane six, my friends and myself exited the ship and entered the castle. We proceeded down the corridors toward the main hall where Celestia and Luna would be. After a few minutes Applejack spoke up.

"Um, I'm not trying to put everypony on nevers here, but where are all the guards?"

We took a quick look around and sure enough there wasn't a signal guard.

"Now that you mention it, I haven't seen one since we arrived," said Andy.

"And the city was awefully quite for a warship to appear over it in a time of peace," added in Rarity.

"Something doesn't feel right here," I said as another shiver went through my spine. This one I didn't ignore and my senses took a hold of me. "Duck!"

The whole party ducked down just in time for a fireball to sail over our heads from behind us. I turned around while getting up and saw our attacker, or attackers in this case. Behind us, from were we had just walk not even a few seconds ago, were our ancestors.

"The hell are you guys doing here?" I asked/yelled.

"Throwing you a little return party brat," replied Atlanta.

"Where is everypony?" Asked Twilight with rage, "where are the princesses?"

"The former, dead," replied who I guessed to be Odysseus, "the later, the same as the former."

"You bastards!" Screamed Luke, "all those innocent ponies, and you killed them!"

"It was rather fun," said Heracules, "especially the royal guard in the purple armor what was his name? Oh yes, Shining Armor, and his wife tried to help him but suffered the same fate as well."

"Brother, Cadence," said Twilight falling to her knees, "they can't, not brother."

Still keeping my composer, I analyzed our surroundings. The narrow passage of the corridor was not going to help us in this fight, we needed the open space of the main hall and throne room.

"Guys," I said whispering o my comrades, "I am going to mass teleport us to the throne room, we need the space."

I got nods of agreement from my friends as I prepped the spell.

"Where are you going cowards," mocked Atlanta, "running away to mommy?"

"No," I replied meeting her dead in the eye, "the throne room, and your coming too!"

With a flash the corridor was replaced with the wide open space of the throne room. I took a quick look around and noticed ripped curtains, broken glass, and blood. Oh god there was blood, and it's scent was still in the air. The groups faced each other with deathly glares, now fueled with an uncanny battle rage. One group for the loss of innocent ponies, the other for being so easily taken away.

"Now, this seems more like a reasonable battlefield to fight doesn't it?" I asked through my teeth stepping forward.

"Yes," replied Heracles smiling , "no one will find your body here."

"Don't you mean our bodies?" I asked a little confused, "my friends an I will defeat you, you're out numbered two to one."

"I only see you little boy," said Atlanta snickering, "or do you mean these friends?"

Their group parted to show the dead bodies of my friends. I almost buckled at the sight. Will's arms were torn off and a javelin ran through his chest. Pinkie looked as if she was suffocated by her own mane, but was covered with deep gashes. Rarity and Twilight were impaled together by three different lances, horns broken and jabbed into their heads. I saw what looked like Luke's body, but with his head a foot or two in-front of it. The rest were just town apart or two badly pulverized to tell who was who.

"How, they we're right behind me," I said turning to see an illusion of my friends disappearing.

"Simple illusion magic young one," said Odysseus sanding up, "and you you fell into perfectly."

"No," I said falling to my knees, "this can't be happening. It has to be a dream."

"Oh no dream love," said Atlanta.

I think I was more afraid of Atlanta when she called me love then brat, because Atlanta didn't love anyone. I looked up to see the ancient heroes walking closer, unsheathing their weapons will malice in their eyes. Even Theseus, which struck me as strange. Another thing that struck me as strange was that his eye color was not it's usual jade green, but a crystal blue.

Run. I heard a voice in my head say Get away from the heroes. I chose not to ignore the voice in my head. As the weapons fell down upon me head I closed my eyes and teleported outside to the courtyard where the airship touched down. When I opened my eyes, I gasped. Coldifre laid dead on the ground, dozens on arrows piercing his underbelly, and the Airship in flames.

"What is happening!?" I yelled as I began to cry, "first my close friends, then Coldfire, and now the only way to defeat Prometheus. Why is this happening?"

"Because Dylan, it is not really happening," said a voice I clearly knew was Theseus.

I turned, unsheathing my sword and pointing it at him still on my kneed. "What are you doing here, you tried to kill me inside a few seconds ago?"

"That was not me, that was Luna," said Theseus calmly, "you are not where you think you are."

"Then where am I?" I asked lowering my sword feeling no malice or intent to kill from my ancestor.

"You are inside you're mind and heart," he replied, "or in other terms, you very soul."

"But my soul isn't his messed up," I said getting up, sword still in hand, "or do I secretly want this to happen?"

"No, you are currently in a deep dream, but to the outside world you are in a coma."

"So, this is my dream?" I asked, "then how come I feel things?"

"Because it's a soul dream, a trial to what you will become,"

"One that is still in progress," said Luna appearing next to Theseus.

"What is this trial for?"

"To see if you can be a true bearer of the Element of Heart," answered Luna, "it does not matter if you pass or fail, but you must complete the trail to return bad to the real world. Although Achilles described his trail as something completely different."

"Wait, Achilles was the last Element of Heart?"

"Yea, he was," replied Theseus.

I ponder for a second. "Yea, I can see that," I said befreo snapping my attention back to what was at hand. "So, let me clear some things up here. I'm in myself?"

"Yes," Luna replied.

"In some trial to prove if I'm worthy to be the bearer of the Element of Heart."

"Correct," added Theseus.

"So it's like a dream that I can't really control?" I continued.

"Yes."

"But I can still use magic and create things."

"Still Correct."

"But now my creation spell is not limited to object created or imagined in your world?" I asked to Luna.

"Yes, you can now create things from your home world, since this is inside a soul that came from it."

"And somehow I'll know what must be done to prove my worth?" I finished.

"It should," replied Theseus, "that is if the process has not changed since out group went through it.

"Then things just got interesting," I said grinning, "and a lot easier."

"How do you mean?" Asked Luna sharing Theseus's confusion.

"Just watch," I replied.

I began to focus my creative magic, drawing a large surplus of magical energy around me to help. I closed my eye and formed a clear picture of the object. I started to feel my my arms and legs being weighed down on me, followed by an even heavier weight being added to my chest and back. I heard a thunk on the ground next to me and I finished by decreasing the weight of all the object I just conjured. When I reopened my eyes I was pleased with what I saw.

"What, what is that armor?" asked Luna.

"It's called mark six armor," I said smiling while picking up my helmet and held it under my left shoulder.

"Is this what the army has in your world as standard issue?" Asked Theseus, "and if it is, I would like some."

"No, it doesn't even exist outside of imagination of our world," I said. I briefly described the concept of video games, the imaginative power that went into making it, and a brief explanation of halo where the armor came from itself. I also explained what the armor provides. Luna seemed quite interested while Theseus was just confused.

"If you have the power to imagine such things, why do you not make it possible?" Asked Theseus, "it seems that some of these things could help the better of man as a whole."

"Four words Theseus," I replied., "sudden change scares humanity."

"Right," he replied.

"Now, I think i should be on my way to finish this and return back to the real world," I said, "but I'm going to need a new weapon." I quickly conjured up my favorite assault rifle the FN Scar which further confused my friends. I rolled my eyes before stating quickly, "it's called a gun, doesn't look like much but packs a punch. Just keep an eye on me if you want to see it in action."

Before they could reply I put on my helmet and teleported myself back into the throne room, only to find that my adversaries were no longer their, but the carnage was. I slowly walked over the the bodies of my friends, kneeled down, and teared up.

"I know it's not real, but I will avenge you."

"Oh, it's all to real," said a voice behind me. I stood up while, turned around and aimed my gun all at the same time to face my foe. I lowered it almost instantly seeing that the voice was Andy.

"Andy, what are you doing here?" I asked walking towards him. I took off my helmet and threw it over towards the side of the room to show him it was me. I stopped to see that he had unsheathed his knives as I did.

"I'm hear to kill you for betraying our friends."

"Wait. What? That wasn't me."

"I know it was you! Father told me when they reached the underworld! He told me they said you killed them!"

"Ah the boy knows the truth," came the all to familiar voice of Atlanta behind him as she walked into view, "and what's with that thing you're carrying and your armor, You think that could hurt us with that."

"No, just you," I replied pulling the trigger letting loose a barrage of bullets into Atlanta. She felling a rag heap as Andy pounced.

"Damn you!" Andy screamed while sailing through the air.

I whacked him in the face with the butt of the rifle making him hit the ground hard. I suddenly felt a pain in my heart causing me the slump over. I can't hurt my friends, I thought That's the trail. I have to stop my enemies and sub-do my friends without hurting them.

I regained my composer as Andy did his. Wheels spun in my head as I thought of a way to pin him without hurting him. I was almost to lost in thought to see him lunge again. Almost. I dodged to the left as he hit the ground and leaped again. The process of my thinking of a way to stop my best friend from killing me while keeping my self alive continued. Dodging left, right, up and down while blocking his attacks was almost impossible while thinking, and Andy wasn't giving me a moments rest.

"Is that all you can do? Dodge like a coward!" He screamed.

Without missing a beat I said, "hey, if you can dodge a killer, you can dodge a dodgeball.'

Andy paused for a moment before cracking up. I took this as my chance. I conjured a barrier around Andy so he couldn't attack me anymore. Andy, seeing that he was trapped, began to vicousely slach the barrier, trying to get out.

"You're not going to get out of that," I said, "Shining Armor taught me how to make barriers hat stronger and sturdier than a ten foot wall of concrete. So, can we talk."

"No you murderer! You lier and betrayer!"

"Ok then," I said finally thinking of a way to stop him, "then sleep."

I conjured a basic sleep spell that put Andy right to bed. Have to remember to thank Twilight for that when I get back. I released the barrier around him as I gently lower him to the floor.

"Now sleep well trail Andy," I said, "for I will not hurt my friends, even if they are not real. I would defend or avenge you all with my last breath."

My chest began to feel warm as I spoke, getting hotter and hotter as I continued. When I finished my heart was burning up like a volcano was erupting in chest. Then my chest suddenly burst with light. The light began to form in front of me a mirror image of myself, but with a symbol of a heart on his armor. It smiled at me before speaking in a heavenly voice.

"I need no more proof of you value," the light image me said, "you have proven yourself. Sparing your friend, even when you knew he was not real. Morning those you lost, even after you knew they were not real and claiming revenge for them. You truly have a noble heart that looks out for their friends, just like the one name Achilles. You have passed my test, and are worthy to be the Element of Heart."

"Wait, that's it?" I asked, "just one kill, a life spared, and a sentence or two. That's all this trail was? It's seems to easy."

"So it seems, but this trial has been going on for a few days now. It also took the knowledge of others to inform you that this was even a trial."

"And it's now over because I did enough in the time of five minutes to prove myself to you?"

"You did more then just that, over the time you were awake I could see that you valued you're friend highly, even the crew that you hardly knew I could sense that you would protect them to the death. It was not simply five minutes, but the course of hours of watching and reading your very soul and being."

"I see. Does this mean I can return back to the real world now."

"Yes, it does."

"Man, didn't even get to use this stuff much," I said gesturing towards my armor and gun, "I was really looking forward to it."

"You will get a chance to use it again. I'm going to wake you up now, your friends are waiting for you."

"Wait," I said as I slowly saw myself fading away, "how will I be able to use you're powers."

"You'll know when the time is right," the light me said calmly, "you'll know..."

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

"He's coming to guys," said a male voice.

"Finally," said a tomboyish female voice, "he's been sleeping while we worked our butts off."

"Dash, he's been in a coma for a week," said a different male voice, slightly higher than the first, "give it a rest."

I slowly opened my eyes seeing Trevor, Dash, and Luke around my bed. I groaned as I moved my head around getting my bearings again. When I became fully woke up I realized that I was in the airship..

"Hey buddy, how're feeling?" Trevor asked.

"Sore, tired, and hungry," I said emphasizing on the hungry.

"I bet you are," said Dash, "you've been asleep for a week."

"Dash, for the last time he was in a coma," said Luke, "he couldn't wake up. I told you this earlier when you tried to shack him awake."

"I was actually doing some sort of trial thing," I said sitting up, "to prove if I was a bearer of the Element of Heart or not."

"Oh yea, Will did one of those," said Trevor, "but he did his over a nights rest, not a week."

"Wait Will," I said, what element if he?"

"Strength if I remember right," said Luke, "ask him yourself."

"Cool," I said, "but really, I'm famished, lets get some grub."

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Later in the Mess Hall

"So that's what happened," I said. Everyone had gathered after hearing the news that I was awake.

"Dude, I really attacked you?" Asked Andy, "that just ain't right."

"Nether is the fact that we were all killed in gruesome ways," added in Rarity, "I wish you had left that part out."

"Yea, but that's going to be an image that will never leave me," I replied.

"I'm just glad you're back," said Twilight.

The mess hall door opened with Hawkeye standing in the door. He was panting, indicating that he had run down from above deck. We gave him a minute to catch his breath before he started speaking."

"Just wanted to let you guys know, we're at the border of Prometheus's realm. And that an army of changlings are advancing from the port bow of the ship."
> Enemy Territory
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"How many of them are there?" I yelled fighting back three changelings at once.

"A lot," replied Will from across deck, "and even more on there way."

Damn it. We haven't even been in Prometheus's territory for more then ten minutes and already we have been fighting for our lives. As soon as we crossed some invisible line, an army of changelings attacked the ship. Without Hawkeye's warning, we would have already been overrun. The top deck has been littered with unconscious and bloody bodies of changelings. I'm not even sure how many made it below deck. Suddenly there was a loud thud on the deck behind me. I pushed back the three changelings I was dealing with to see what had landed. It didn't even phase me that Queen Chrysalis had landed. The fighting stopped as if the changelings were given a cue after their leader had landed.

"So you are the ones that are suppose to stop dear Prometheus," Chrysalis spoke, "and I see some familiar faces in the crowd. How's my hubby doing dear Twilight Sparkle?"

"He is not your husband," growled Twilight.

"Pish-posh, I was almost his," Chrysalis replied, "but enough about him. Who is the leader of this group, and please say it isn't her." Chrysalis pointed at Twilight to make her point clear.

"Sorry to disappoint you," I said walking up, "but I'm leading this group with Twilight."

"Hmmm," Chrysalis hummed with what I presumed to be some lust as she looked me over. "Well, well, well. Aren't you something to look at dear." She began to circle me with an even more intense stare. "I heard that humans had returned to Equestria, but I haven't seen them yet. What a treat this is for me."

I was a little surprised that she hadn't seen Prometheus's little hero pets. "So you don't even know that Prometheus has the heroes of old under his command?" I asked now circling with Chrysalis eyes locked.

"No, I didn't," she replied calmly, "in fact, I haven't even come face to face with him."

"That's surprising," I said with a coolness in my voice, "It seems that your leader doesn't have enough respect to show himself to his pawns."

"I AM NO PAWN!" shouted Chrysalis stomping her hoof down, now glaring menacingly at me.

"Ah the queen has a temper on her," I heard Trevor joke, "I'm so scared."

"DON'T MAKE FUN OF THE QUEEN OF CHANGELINGS HUMAN!" Chrysalis shouted now turning her head to the joker.

"Great, now she's throwing a temper tantrum," joked Will even further, "now I'm scared as well."

"Twilight, Applejack, please shut our two friends up before I become angry at them as well, "I said gruffly without taking my eyes off Chrysalis. The two didn't even have to do anything since Trevor and Will shut up after my comment.

"I see that you have the authority of a leader," said Chrysalis impressed, "I like."

"Ooook, awkward," I said, "but I want to know, why did you join Prometheus?"

"That's simple, for the power."

"Excuse me?" Interjected Twilight, "what power?"

"The power of all the love in Equestria the Prometheus promised me when he kills the princesses," Chrysalis crackled.

"Not this again," said Twilight, "you already failed that plan once, being defeated by the power you sought out to take."

"This time it's different," hissed Chrysalis.

"Enough," I said breaking the death glares between the two mares, "I'm tired of this. Chrysalis, Prometheus is clearly lying to you, and I know you know it. Now, I'm not asking you to join us, but if you leave and don't get in our way I can promise you that no more of your subject will be hurt. If you stay to fight, I can't guaranty that you will survive."

I stood inches from Chrysalis's face as she thought over my offer. I didn't lift my glare on her as she thought. I knew that my friends and the changelings were sitting on the thick air I had made. After almost a minute of thinking Chrysalis made eye contact with me. I didn't like the smug that I saw.

"You're concerned about our safety human," Chrysalis laughed, "we outnumber you a thousand to one, you will not survive."

With that she took to the air and her subjects began their attack anew. I just shook my head as I watch the army approach our ship.

"They never learn," I sighed, "well, Twilight I think it's time we used that."

"Let's do it," she agreed. Her horn lit up with it's purplish glow as my hands began to glow pink. A burst of magic shot form her horn towards me which I caught in my hands. They began to glow brighter as I channeled our two spells. Once I had equaled out the resonations I slammed my hands down flat onto the deck of the ship. A barrier sprang forth surrounding the ship along with blowing off any changelings.

"This should hold for a little while," I yelled to the others," but I have to stay focused on it with Twilight if we want to maintain it. It will keep the changelings out, but any projectile can go through it with ease, so keep you eyes open." As if on cue several bolts of magic burst through the makeshift barrier. Rarity, Trevor and Will were able to deflect them with ease though.

"Twilight, we need to get out of here fast," I said as more and more bolts of various kinds of magic came through the barrier, "we're going to have to do a mass teleport forward and leave the ship."

"But we can't hold the barrier and prep the teleport at the same time," she replied.

"It's going to be tought but I think I can hold the barrier by myself for a few seconds while you prep the teleport," I said.

"I'll gather everyone around you guys," said Andy who had been listening in. Once he had successfully gathered everyone in a tight circle and explained what was going to happen the changelings had decided to begin targeting the ship.

"Twilight, you ready?" I asked.

"Yea," she replied before turning to everyone else, "we'll be teleporting about four or five mile ahead of us. It's a rough estimate and I'm going to have to use a sight spell before the teleport to make sure we get there in one piece. Dylan, I'm dropping my focus from the barrier now."

I grunted as I felt twilight's support stop along with my own magic reserves dropping quickly. After ten seconds of holding the barrier I knew my limit was reaching it's peak.

"Twilight," I began, "you have about five more seconds, then I can;t hold it anymore."

"OK, ok," I answered distracted, "almost, almost, THERE!"

As if on que I dropped the barrier as a pink bubble surrounded our group followed by a flash of light. When the light receded we were on the side of a mountain. I could faintly see in the distance behind us our airship fall down to earth on fire. As I watched our ship fall I felt my stamina leave me as I fell to the ground, lucky Applejack and Hawkeye caught me.

"You ok partner?" Asked Applejack.

"Yea, just used a little bit too much magic," I said, "I'll be fine in a sec." I looked up as a final explosion was heard from where our ship had crashed. "Heh, we don't have the best of luck with ships, either sea of air, do we?" I asked jokingly.

"Yea," replied Alex, "we better keep going before Chrysalis catches up with us.

Grunts of approval where heard as the group gathered together and continued to march North. Twilight casted an invisibility spell to help cloak our presence in case the changelings flew by.  As we walked, I used Will as a support. Apparently I had used more magic than I thought. We continued on like this for a while. I had regained some strength and was able to walk alone after the first couple minutes, and since have been using most of my concentration on absorbing the magical energy around me. I had entered a trance as was paying very little attention to the others.

"Dylan...Dylan...Dylan you there? Hello equestria to Dylan."

"Huh, what?" I said snapping out of my trance, "something wrong Twilight?"

"No, nothing's wrong just wanted to let you know that the we're in the clear and I'm dropping the cloaking spell," she replied.

"Ok then," I said taking a look around for the first time in a while. I noticed we were slightly behind everyone else, "how long have we been walking?"

"About three hours. Have you really not noticed?" Twilight responded.

"Not really. I've been pooling magic and kinda lost my senses for a bit. I just kinda followed the presence of the group."

"Rarity and I noticed an influx of magic around you a while ago. It seems you've gathered quite a bit up."

"Yea, I think we're going to need all the power we can get, and I don't want to run out again like with the changlings."

Twilight responded with a simple nod and caught back up to Rarity. I quickened my pace to catch up with Andy.

"Hey, welcome back to Equestria man," said Andy as I walked up.

"Thanks, you think we're almost there?" I asked.

"I'm not really sure, I feel a large complex tunnel system underneath us but I can't find a central chamber."

"How did you," I began before catching myself, "right Son of Hades and the underworld. At least you seem to have honed your abilities pretty well."

"Yea, but something is bothering me."

"What is it?"

"These tunnels, I can't feel anything past a few feet inside of them, like their wrapped with cloaking magic or something."

"Well that's odd. Anyways do you feel any openings or caves we can camp in for the night? I don't want to light a fire outside with changelings everywhere."

"Yea, there is a cave a mile or so ahead of us and to the right. Do you want me to let everyone know what's up?"

"Em hm, thanks Andy."

"No sweat."

With that Andy increased his pace to talk to the others ahead of us while I fell back to let Twilight and Rarity know what was up. They acknowledged that it was a good idea and soon the group was heading towards the cave. As we approached the cave I heard a buzzing in the air. I turned right to see a group of changelings flying by.

"Twilight," I whispered, "area concealment spell now."

We channeled our magic quickly and casted the spell. The changelings flew overhead continuing in the direction we were heading. Twilight and I kept the spell up until everybody was inside of the cave. Once the changelings had passed overhead we dropped the spell.

"Ok everybody," I said turning, "we're going to set up camp here for the night. We need to set up a guard shifts in case any more changelings fly by. I'll take the first shift with one other, who wants to join me?"

"I will," answered Trevor.

"Ok, now that first shift is settled lets get a fire going and figure out the rest." Will and Applejack got a fire going in no time. The group gathered around to recall the events that took place earlier. As the fired burned down to coals everybody head off to sleep. Trevor and I headed toward the mouth of the cave to start first watch. As we sat there looking up to the sky something dawned on me.

"Hey Trevor, what happened to Coldfire?"

"Now that you mention it," replied Trevor, "last I saw him he was fighting off changelings below the airship."

"I'll see if I can reach him telepathically."

I put my right hand to my head and begun channeling magic. I casted the spell trying to hunt down Coldfire. After a few moments I found him.

"Coldfire, is that you?" I asked mentally.

"It is I Dylan," replied the dragon, "I lost sight of you after the airship fell."

"Ok, this is how it went down," I began. I continued explaining what had happened to the party since the airship was lost. Coldfire just listened without any questions or comments.

"I see," Coldfire replied," it seems there is a great distance between us."

"How far of a distance?"

"I can still the airship's wreak."

"Do you think you can make it to us?"

"There are changelings waiting in ambush. They know that I am waiting, but they dare not to attack. There is a way I can travel to you without them knowing though."

That last bit perked my interest. "How?"

"Since I am bound to you, you may summon me through the void if the area allows it."

"Wait wait wait. I can summon you through the void? Why did you not let me know this before?" I asked angrily.

"I did not see a need for it before. I did not believe we would be separated this far."

"Fine, what do I need to do?"

"All you need to do is channel conjuration magic into you hands, touch the ground and chant Et qual uve throran void, koom KuldFirage as such."

"I call you through the void, come Colfire. Not to long and not to short, but does it have to be in draconioc?"

"Yes, or else the portal does not open to your location."

"Thank you, I will call upon you when I need your help. For now stay put and rest, I think you will need it."

"Agreed. It is good to know you are well."

"Likewise." with that I cut my communication with Coldfire. Turning I saw Trevor staring intently at my face. "What?"

"Nothing," he replied, "just that you were going through a hell of a lot of faces and emotions during your little mental chat. Everything alright on his end."

"Yes." I quickly explained what the two of us went over in our mental conversation.

"I see, at least he's well and keeping a few changelings off of us."

"Yea," I answered looking back up to the sky. "Trevor."

"Yea?"

"Ever wonder, why us? What really made us so special that we where summoned here? Why were we chosen to be heroes?"

"Sometimes, but I just come to the conclusion that if it had to be someone, why not one of the few Greek followers that know of this world and his friends."

"Yea, but still..." we sat there until Pinkie and Alex came to replace us with that thought. I set up my sleeping bag near Twilight, Rarity and Andy. I fell asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Dylan, wake up darling. Wake up Dylan!"

"Five more minutes," I replied waving my hand randomly in the air.

"One moment Rarity," said another voice I made out as Twilight, "I'll handle this. DYLAN WAKE UP NOW!" Twilight yelled ramming my side with her horn.

I woke up jumping back," I'm up I'm up. What's so important that I need to be..." As I finished my sentence my eyes adjusted to the darkness. I noticed that we weren't in the cave anymore, but a tunnel. I couldn't see more then five feet ahead of me but I noticed that only Twilight, Rarity and Andy were with me. "Where are we?"

"I have no idea," replied Andy, "but I can't sense anyone else. That annoying magical barrier thing is all around us. It's almost like the ground swallowed us while we were sleeping and transported us somewhere."

"That's crazy," I said.

"That's what we said darling, but it seems to be the only reasonable explanation."

"Ah," I groaned while shacking my head, "well, lets get moving. Andy can you tell if either way leads to a dead end?"

"Yea, we got to go left, right end in about 100 feet."

"Thanks. Twilight think you could provide some light."

"No problem," Twilight replied lighting up her horn. We began walking down the tunnel two by two. Twilight and Rarity were in the front, with Andy and I tailing behind.

"Andy, you said that these walls have a high concentration of magical energy right?" I asked.

"Yea, why?"

"I'm going to continue absorbing to stockpile my reserves." I extended my left arm towards the wall until my hand was gliding across it. I begun to absorb the energy and pool it into the amulet that Twilight gave me. We continued on like this for a half an hour or so felling an occasional tremor or quake.

"Wonder what's causing these tremors?" Andy asked after the tenth or so tremor.

"I don't know but the dirt they release is ruining my coat," replied Rarity. Just as she finished another quake accurred causing a large displacement of dirt from the ceiling to fall an Rarity. "AHHH, not again!"

"Is it just me or do these tremors seem like they are getting closer," Twilight pointed out.

"Yea, they do," I replied," Andy can you check the walls again. I think I've absorbed enough for you to see something."

"Maybe," he said before putting his right hand against the wall as we walked. He slide his hand on the wall for three mroe tremors, each stronger then the last. Suddenly he shot his had back and turned, "Watch out!"

Suddenly the ground opened up underneath us and we fell into a black void. The surprise had made Twilight lose focus of her spell making it impossible to see anything. As I fell the ground begun sloping upward into a slide. As I begun sliding now down through the darkness I yelled out to the others receiving no reply. After a minute of sliding my feet hit solid ground making my legs buckled underneath me. As I stood back up I head footsteps.

"Who's there?" I asked raising my left hand up and dropping my right down to my rapier.

"Oh goodie! I got Mr. Leader," said a feminine voice with glee. I conjured a purple flame in my left hand only to be greeted by Atlanta's a little more then ten feet in front of me.

"Hello Atlanta," I said unpleasantly, "come to kill me off, or just be a little fan girl?"

"Oh don't be like that," she teased, "I'm just happy I got to be with me favorite new hero."

"So you could do what, tease and flirt with me?"

"Oh no, so I can finally kill you with my own two hands after the humiliation you gave me back in the Griffon Kingdom," She said turning her tone into a old pyschotic war-hungry bitch from before.

"There's the Atlanta I know," I said half joking, "but there are two problems with that."

"Which are?"

"First, I'm a lot stronger then I was in the Griffon Kingdom."

"Ha, yea right like anyone can strengthen up in that sort of a time."

"Yea I can, and second is that I have a fulled prepared fireball in my hand."

"What's that suppose to..." she began before it my fireball hit her right in the face. "AHHHHHH!" She screamed in pain bringing her hands up to her face trying to put the flames out. "Gods curse you, curse you to the depths of Tarturus," She screamed frantically trying to put out the flames.

"You're not going to put that out," I said, "it's Greek fire. It can only be put out by magic or magically infused water. Good thing is I'm not going to let you suffer for long." I unsheathed my rapier and tucked it under my right arm aimed towards Atlanta. "Wind Glider," I whispered as I cast the spell. I shot forward and lunged at Atlanta. I felt my blade pierce her heart and the warmth of her blood on my hands. "Aquas Litunda," I said dosing the flames on Atlanta's face with conjured water. When the flames were fully doused she looked down at the wound I had inflicted.

"Well, by Zeus you did get stronger," she said looking back up with a smile.

"Why are you smiling?"

"Because you final set my free," She replied laughing, "I'm free of his curse. Free from Prometheus. Thank you." Atlanta began tearing up as she spoke, "thank you for sending me back to Elysian."

"You're welcome," I said heavily, "and I am sorry." I drove the blade further into her chest causing her to cough up blood. I jammed it once more with a slight twist just to finish it off.

"Thank you," she said once more before her eyes closed. I pulled my rapier out as her body collapsed unto the ground.

I stood there overlooking the one who had just a few days before spewed such vile remarks. One who was considered a great hero and warrior, defeated in seconds by what seemed to be luck. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. As I opened then I said, "you can come out now Twilight."

"How did you know I was here?" She asked appearing behind me with a light spell.

"I'm still absorbing the magical energies around me, so I felt your invisibility spell disrupting the air around you."

"I see," she said walking up, "I didn't think she would fall that quickly."

"Neither did I," I said cleaning my blade before sheathing it, "you don't happen to have two bits on you do you?"

"I do, but why?"

"You'll see." Twilight handed me two bits as I conjured up a small pyre of wood. I picked up Atlanta's body and laid it on the pyre. I placed a bit on each of her eyes before stepping back.

"What's that?" Twilight asked.

"A funeral pyre. It's an old Greek way of burial for warriors lost in battle. The fire helps release the soul from the body for it to go to the underworld. Usually two Drachmea are placed one the eyes, one fore each to help pay Charon from passage into the underworld."

"Oh," she replied, "well, there's only one way to go, should we head out."

"Yea, go on ahead. Just, just give me a moment here for a second."

"Ok," twilight said before turning and going further down the passage.

As twilight walked away I remembered what Theseus had told me, that none of the six heroes of old wanted to return from Hades's realm. That they were corrupted into serving Prometheus and that death was there only freedom. I lit the pyre with a small fireball at the bottom before turning around to join Twilight. "Rest well Atlanta," I murmured before catching up with Twilight.

As we walked down the tunnel in the only direction we could, I continued to absorb the magical aura off of the walls. Twilight and I walked in relative silence for a bit, myself humming along as I walked.

"So," Twilight said breaking the mild silence, "are we even heading in the right direction?"

"I think so," I replied, "if not why would Atlanta try to stop me?"

"Good point. I guess I'm just a little worried."

"About what?"

"Andy and Rarity. If Atlanta was waiting for us I wonder what or who was waiting for them. If they were separated or are still together like us or if they fell into a death trap or if they..."

"They're fine," I said cutting Twilight off, "they can both handle themselves."

"I know, I just get over paranoid sometimes."

"Yea, I've seen."

We stopped talking for a little bit focusing more on what was ahead of us. I decided to turn my I-pod on low for a little background exploring music.Exploring music I could tell Twilight enjoyed the extra sound instead of just listening to our foot/hoof steps. As we walked I took a better look at the surrounding walls. I noticed every now and then a glowing stone would appear.

"Hey Twilight," I said stopping to look at one, "do you know why these stone are glowing?"

"Not sure," she said before getting a closer look, "well, I'll be. Dylan these are legerdemain gems. They're stones that hold great quanitites of magic in reserve. The necklece I gave you had one of these gems in it. They're very rare.

"Well not quite, they're everywhere look," I said pointing the several that surrounded us.

"Woh," twilight said mouth ajar, "I never seen so many."

"Want to go mining?" I said.

"Yea, these will help when we get to Prometheus."

"Well," I said creating two pickaxes, "lets get these things out."

We mined out fifteen gems each, ranging from the size of my thumb to fist size. Every single one of them had a large amount of magical energy already stored in them, probably from the enormous amount of magical energy already pooling in the cavern. Once we had acquired what seemed enough we continued our way down the cavern. A while after our little mining adventure we came to a fork in the tunnel.

"Which way?" Asked Twilight looking down both tunnels.

"Not sure," I replied shrugging, "but I can send a sound spell down and see if it picks anything up like a bat's sonar."

"Yea, do that."

I took my hand off of the wall to cast the spell. I sent one pulse down each passage and stood with Twilight waiting for a return wave. In a moment the right passage returned with the left seconds behind. The left though had two pulses return, which made Twilight and I look at each other in puzzlement.

"Want to go left?" I asked.

"You don't think it's a trap?"

*Suddenly Admiral Ackbar appeared in my head yelling his famous line* "No, I don't," I replied, "lets go check it out. It might be the others."

As we walked down the tunnel, I sent out another pulse, only to be greeted by two returning pulses. As we approached a slight bend we saw another light. We quickened our pace and I turned off my I-pod. As we reached the bend we saw a fifty foot doorway adored with two proportional torches on either side.

"Was not expecting that," I said looking up.

"Me either."

"Should we open it?"

"Maybe."

"Well, here goes nothing," I said taking a step forward. I lifted up my arms as Twilight joined me charging her horn. We casted a telekinesis grip on the handles. We slowly pulled the doors open wide enough for us to get in. Once the doors were wide enough Twilight and I walked on in. Once we passed threw the doors they shut behind us putting us in total darkness. We jumped a little bit in surprise. After a moment or so in darkness I heard Twilight grunting.

"What's wrong?" I asked.

"I can't activate my light spell."

"Why can't..." Before I could finish my sentence I sensed a large wave of magical energy flooded towards us. When the wave hit the density of the magical power was so thick that I had to brace myself to not be thrown back onto the door. I could hear Twilighting grunting as she did the same thing. After the wave washed over us I could sense a large magical energy was emitting before us. As my eyes adjusting I saw a gigantic silhouette in what seemed to be an equally gigantic cylindrical room. The shape began to rise  and as it did torches surrounding the room begun to light up. I had to cover my eyes as the sudden flash of light besieged them.

"Ah," I heard as I covered my eyes, "it seems you two are the first to arrive."

I took my hands off of my eyes to let them adjust to the light. I noticed that there where eleven other doors in the chamber identical to the one behind us. The being in the center was now easily recognizable as Prometheus. Easily over four hundred meters tall, yet he look strangely human. The major differences though was that his skin looked like the surface of a rock and he had no reproductive organs that I could notice. What I did notice though was that both his arms and legs were chained with what seemed like a hundred foot thick chains, probable forged by Hephaestus, keeping the titan god in place. Above him was a large crack that ran the entirety of the chamber.

"What to do you mean the first?" Asked Twilight stepping forward.

"Precisely what it means, you are the first to arrive in my chamber after I sucked you into my tunnels. Though two of you coming from the same door means that the seconded separation didn't work out as I had hoped." Prometheus seems to think about the other outcomes.

"So it was you who separated us," I said breaking my gaze around the room.

"Of course. I tried to separate your party to overcome the final trial before facing me. I wouldn't want to be disappointed about those trying to stop me. Although I thought that Atlanta would hold that passage longer. That's what I get for sending a woman to do a mans job. But she begged to kill you and how can I refuse the annoying cries of a female."

"What do the other passages contain?" Asked Twilight holding in her anger from that last remark Prometheus made.

"Oh the usually, a hydra here, a manticore couple over there, a few dozen harpies through that door and the other five heroes I have under my command."

As soon as he finished a second door, three to the right from out door opened and in walked Alex with Theseus. We began to run over to them. Once they saw us they begun to meet us mid-way.

"I thought I had lost control over you Theseus," said Prometheus noticing the new addition, "but I couldn't tell when. Mind explaining how you broke my power over you."

"You never had power over me, I resisted from the beginning. I knew that the gods would send new heroes to stop you. I have been helping them as soon as I could." Theseus spoke without a hint of fear in his voice.

"you are indeed a marvelous hero Theseus," Replied Prometheus chuckling, "but your time in this world is over, along with your accomplish Perseus behind me." Two doors on the other side of the room began to open. Applejack and a badly wounded Hawkeye walked in through one with Perseus and Trevor from the other. " Prometheus closed his eyes and let out a deep breath. As he finished Theseus and Perseus gave a sudden jolt. "It is done," said Prometheus opening his eye, "I hope that you enjoy your stay back in the underworld as traitors to the gods."

Theseus began to fade away, as if his existence was being erased. He looked down and back up with a slight grin. "It seems like my time here is done," Theseus said, "I only have one thing to say Dylan."

"Yea?"

"You're one damn fine ancestor."

"Thank you. If you happen to see Atlanta down there, tell her I'm sorry."

"I will. Goodbye." With that Theseus vanished, leaving not even a trace of his being behind.

"Come on, lets go meet up with the others." We walked around Prometheus meeting with the others, excluding Perseus. I kept one eye on Prometheus the entire way. As we came closer I could finally tell how bad of shape Hawkeye was. His back right leg was twist in a full 180 and his tail was burnt off.

"Applejack," I said once we got together, "what did you guys run into?"

"Ran into a chimera, and a real nasty one at that," she replied.

I nodded before turning back to Prometheus. "So, are you toying with us now by just letting us do what we want?"

"Oh no," Prometheus said with a sly grin, "I just want to have an exciting fight, that's all. I haven't had fun in ages and would just like to face the new heroes all together. Give you more of a fighting chance."

*He has the power to kill us anyway. Why wait till we are all together when he can just send us to the underworld like Theseus and Perseus?* I thought.

"That is simple Dylan, I can only send those that I have control over to their immediate doom."

"How...what...did you just read my mind?" I asked Prometheus.

"Of course I did. Why did you think I answered your thoughts?"

"Hoooow?"

"I have a strong connection with every human, since I was partially their maker and early helper," Prometheus replied nonchalantly, "I can read almost any human mind if I truly wanted to and I could see them."

"I see, so are you just going to let us wait here until or friends arrive?"

"Yes, enjoy your final moments. Also two more are here." The two doors to our right opened letting in a bruised up but proud Will from the further and Fluttershy from the closer. Fluttershy seemed to be saying goodbye to something/one before the door closed. When she turned around she squeaked and tried to fly back through the door. I whistled to get their attention and they made their way over to us, Fluttershy against the wall the entire way.

"What's going on?" Asked will once he got close enough, "are we going to fight him?"

"He's letting us wait for the others to arrive before we fight." I replied to Will before turning to Fluttershy. "Fluttershy, can you take a look at Hawkeye, he's in rough shape."

Flutteshy nodded quickly before heading over to Hawkeye. I sat down and once again pooling magical energy around me until the others arrived. After about an hour or so the rest of the gang had arrived, with Dash being the last to arrive. Once she reached us I stood and faced the group. We had a silent nodded agreement before I turned back to Prometheus.

"Prometheus!" I yelled, "prepare yourself for your journey to Tartarus." I cast a fireball in each hand, one purple and one white. I hear my friends behind unseath their weapons and prep spells.

"So it has finally come down to this," Prometheus said sighing, "and I so wanted to talk some more."

"We're done talking," I replied beginning my charge. I took three steps before the room began to shake. I stopped to look up at Prometheus who was grinning like a madman. "What are you doing!"

"Oh nothing, just finishing the connection of your world and this one through the void so I can extract my vengeance on the gods who imprisoned me here," Prometheus replied nonchalantly.

""That's impossible," I yelled back, "It should be at least two more days before the portal should of been opened."

"That would be true, if I hadn't let out false information. I knew someone within my ranks, ahem Theseus, wasn't under my control so I planted my own agent into your ranks to learn who it was."

"What do you mean you planted an agent to spy on us," Twilight replied, "I checked everyone we sailed with when we left Sacramareto."

"Oh little Twilight," Prometheus replied with a chuckle, "he didn't even know he was under my grasps. By not knowing he was a agent and by me peering into his dreams, he made the perfect spy. I must congratulate you Hawkeye, you did superbly."

All eyes turned to Hawkeye who face could only be read as pure shock. I knew from just a glance that he was horrified that he had been helping Prometheus, if what he said was even true, but that didn't stop Rainbow Dash from darting forward and punching him.

"You traitor! We trusted you!" She screamed landing punch after punch causing more pain to the already badly injured pony. Alex and Trevor pulled he off of him, Luke and Fluttershy going back to treating his newly acquired bruises.

"Dash stop," Trevor said, "he didn't know. It's not his fault, plus it doesn't matter now. Focus your rage on Prometheus."

I nodded before facing Prometheus once again, this time noticing the crack on the ceiling opening. "Guys, I think the portal is opening," I said pointing towards the opening rift.

As the other turned to see what I was pointing at Prometheus begun laughing madly. "Well, I would love to stay and tear you party apart some more but I have an appointment with Olympus," Prometheus said as he broke all four of the chains that tied him to the earth. He squatted down before giving a mighty leap through the now fully open portal. In less then a second he had disappeared into the rift.

"Come on!" I yelled tot he other, "We got to follow him!" As our group began to make our way to the middle, with Luke carrying Hawkeye over his shoulder, the twelve doors into the room burst open. From them spewed every mythological creature know to man, whether it be Greek, Norse, Egyptian or Eastern. Within seconds we were surrounded by an army of beasts.

"Looks like we're fighting our way out," Will said catching up to me."

"No, we're not," I replied erecting a barrier around the group. As we ran towards the middle the wall was pounded by hydra heads, kyuubi fire, harpy talons and the like. Once we reached the center of the room I had to tap into one of the crystals I took form the cavern walls to hold it up.

"How are we going to get out?" said a frantic Pinkie.

"Twilight, mass levitation spell, how long?" I asked quickly.

"Thirty seconds," she replied her horn already aglow.

"Everyone, I've adjusted the barrier to let projectiles out. Get some pressure off of it."

As if on cue everyone began throwing created spears, arrows and even a chakrams from Andy. It didn't seem to have that much effect except for the harpies and succubi.

"It's ready," Twilight yelled over the screams of monsters.

"Good, everyone, get ready," I said.

"Wait," Hawkeye said before Twilight casted the spell, "We'll never make it out of here without taking a few of these thing right behind us. Somepony has to stay behind to stall them a little bit."

"No one is being left behind," I replied.

"I'm not suggesting, I'm telling you. I am staying behind to give you guys a little bit more time," Hawkeye replied sternly, "I don't think I have the strength the make it through that thing anyways. What I do know though is that you twelve need to get through there and you won't unless some covers you asses."

I got into a deadlock stare with Hawkeye. After a few seconds I sighed. "Fine," I said, "but I'm going to make sure you have some defense for yourself." I casted a personal shield around Hawkeye along with a touch to his quiver. "You now have your own shield for as long as we are in this plane. Once we go through the portal the shield will disappear. I also enchanted your arrows to have explosive tips when you pull them out of your quiver."

"Thanks," he said sincerely smiling before going back to the stern face he always has, "now get going. I'll keep them off you."

"Twilight now!" Ascending

Twilight's horn flashed purple, then we began to rise towards the portal. I was the last one before Twilight to take off as I was the furthest. As we rose the others continued to hinder the creature below us. I focused on keeping the barrier stable as I watched Hawkeye take a deep breath before unleashing arrow after arrow onto the enemy. At about halfway I noticed that the creature which could fly begin to fall left and right from Hawkeye's arrows. I watched as Hawkeye fight desperately using the last bit of strength to doudge what he could to keep his barrier up as long as he could. At three quarters of the way up the first of our group began to reach the portal, yet I couldn't keep my eyes off of Hawkeye. One by one the others went through the portal until only Twilight and I were left. Hawkeye noticing we were almost through stopped his fight and lied down on his back, eyes closed looking peaceful. He opened them to look me in the eyes one last time.

"Goodbye, and thank you," I mouthed to him smiling.

He replied with a simple salute before Twilight and I crossed through the rift. The last thing I saw was my barrier failing and Hawkeye being swarmed over by the beasts. Then everything went black.