Act 1: A New World

View Online

'Yep , definitely in a forest, but how did I get here?', I thought as a small flash of light caught my eye I turned to see the power crystal
'The Merchant' had sold to me.letting my curiosity get the best of me, I reached out a claw and picked it up to- wait CLAW!

Starting to panic I retracted the claw with the crystal in hand(or claw) and glanced down at it. I inspected the my reflection inside the crystal and at the same time hyperventilating at what was staring back at me. I instantly noticed the purple scales on my face and the rest of my new body, purple irises, four sharp talons, a tail with orange spines running up my back to my head, two reddish-orange wings, and two orange horns. Putting two and two together that crystal must've transformed me into a dragon and sent me somewhere in the middle of a dark forest. Yeah that sounded better in my head.

"Okay James, calm down and lets figure out the situation here." I say to myself trying to ease my mind, "I was at comic-con...uh...there was that 'Merchant' guy who sold me the crystal and....here I am as Spyro, the legendary purple dragon himself." I put a claw to my face knowing that did not make any sense what-so-ever. Sighing in frustration I tried to moved my new wings and surprisingly it was very simple, I smiled to myself finally making some progress. I tucked the crystal under my wing and, again by surprise, started to walk on all fours like it was nothing.

'I could get used to this body', I thought as I walked through the trees of the forest, which I noticed was kind of dark even though I can see the sunlight seeping through the canopy of trees. My thoughts though wasn't focused on my surroundings though, it was on my friends and family back home. Clearly they had to know I was missing, they must be freaking out right now, plus I might get fired from my job for not coming in to work for a couple of days or maybe weeks and I don't think 'got turned into a dragon from a video game is a good excuse'. My thoughts were then interrupted from the sound of my stomach grumbling for food.

"I knew I should have ate breakfast this morning." I look around to see if there were any fruits for me to munch on until I reach someone(who won't freak out) that will help me. I groan in defeat for not finding any fruit in the trees or bushes and my stomach is literally grumbling 'feed me'. My head the shoots up at the sound of running water nearby, hoping to find some food I follow the source of the noise until I reach a stream filled with fish minding their own business. My mouth starts to drool at the nostalgic taste of fish and chips back home, but I never tasted raw fish before.Well, I am a dragon, I can just roast them..........When I know how to do that, i say in my head and there noticed that is another problem added to my list, I got to learn how to be like a dragon if I am going to be one for the rest of my life.

I glance back down at the stream and put a determined look on my face and raising a claw. With one swift move a swipe the water, only for me to get no fish and a gush of water splashed on my face. I swiped again but came with the same result and a couple of scared fish. "This is harder than I thought." I say to myself deciding to try a different approach. I dunk my head in to the stream and spread my jaws and clamp down I pull my head out, only to receive sticks and twigs. I spit them out in frustration and tried again only for me to hit my head on the bottom of the bank, I groaned in pain as I started rubbing my head with a claw I glared at the fished who slipped my grasp who was now...laughing?

"Oh! So you think that was funny?!" I say to the fish a tad bit irritated as they gave me teasing looks in return, I lost control of my temper at their teasing and let out a mighty roar, accidently releasing a ball of fire at the stream causing it to explode on impact sending the fish soaring through the air and on to the bank charbroiled.

"How did I just do that?" I asked myself, only to shrug in response and focused my attention on my lunch/dinner on the bank. I gather up the cooked fish and took a leaf off a tree using it as plate. I hesitantly took a bite out of one of them and quickly savored the taste at how good it tasted, Guess my taste buds changed too I threw another fish in my mouth chewing on it happily and continued to the next.

With the whole pile of fish devoured I set off deeper into the unknown forest, after about two and a half hours of walking I noticed the sun starting to go down which meant I must've arrived here at about five o'clock p.m. I scan my surroundings noticing that I am in a patch in the forest. "Well I don't know what kind of animals are in this forest or what animal will be stupid enough to take on a dragon, but just to be safe I'll sleep on one of the branches." I walked up to the closest tree and glanced at my claw. Figuring my talons are sharp enough I dug them in to the base of the trunk and started to climb. After about thirty minutes of falling, slipping, and climbing I found I branch sturdy enough to hold my weight.

"I am definitely learning how to fly tomorrow." I say with a yawn as I curl up in a ball on the branch and think back to my life before all this mess started, I let out a sad sigh wondering if my friends and family even miss, me let alone I'm gone. Hoping for the latter I slowly closed my eyes and let sleep take over me.

The sounds of birds chirpings filled my ears, waking me from my peaceful slumber. I let out a long yarn and I stretch my limbs on the branch I had fallen asleep on, I looked down at my body hoping that yesterday was all just some big dream.........but that was shut down by me almost tripping over my wing.

"So it wasn't a dream," I said in a disappointed tone.

Looking down I noticed I was real high up, thinking for a moment I spread my wings and took a deep breath. With a serious look on my face I jumped off the branch, as I thought flying would be much harder than walking and running, but I did glide down safely on to the forest floor.
"If I am going to get out of here I have to learn how to fly." I say to myself as I took the crystal that was under my wing and held it in my claw and flapped my wings a couple times to no result, I tried again but this time flapping them harder like a humming bird.......but nothing happened.

"Come on!" I scream out, "Okay, concentrate it's just like riding a bike..........a bike with scales and wings."

I closed my eyes and jumped as high as I can flapping my wings hard but not fast this time, I slowly opened my eyes to find I didn't fall yet. Matter-of-fact I was hovering above the ground! "YES!! Things will be soooo much easier now!" I chant in the air. I was always a fast learner back home so maybe I can learn how to breath fire fire sooner than I thought, and who knows maybe I can use magic since I AM Spyro. I give out a chuckle at how cool that would be, and glance back at my wings keeping me in the air. Deciding to do a little experiment I tuck in my legs and adjust my body in a horizontal position as my body slowly started to move forward through the trees of the forest. 'So that's how you go forward' I lean to the side turning by body to the right and continued to fly on a different route 'And that's how you turn, seems simple enough', wondering how to stop I leaned back and started to hover above the ground.

"Okay I think I got it." I say smiling to myself and taking another glance at my wings, "let's see what these things can really do."

With that said I sped off like a bullet and I'm not going to lie I had no idea what I was doing at first, but it was sure fun as hell! I zipped and zig-zagged through the trees, closing my wings to hop across branches and opening them to resume flying through the dense forest. "Man, if the boys back home could see me now!" I exclaimed as I land on the forest floor. Deciding not to burn up my energy I continue to tread down the forest path.

"It will be best if a preserve my energy so when I'm fully rested i can easily fly out of here." I say with a hint of glee finally being able to leave the forest and find civilization. Oh man, I missed the softness of a bed. My thoughts were then interrupted by three screams, my instincts take over me as I run as fast as I can for the source of the screams. I'm really tired from all the flying I did earlier, so I hope it wasn't anything TOO major.

And of course with my luck I was dead wrong.

As I came to a stop to the source of where I heard the screams my eyes went wide at what I saw. There were three small technicolor ponies huddled up against a tree. one was yellow with orange,and red mane with a big bow tied on her head. The other was white with green eyes, a purple and pink mane and a horn on top of her head. The last was orange with a tomboyish purple mane and had feathery wings.

What really got me though wasn't the small pony, unicorn, and pegasus(which I assumed were kids). I t was that they were surrounded by four wolves made completely out of wood. 'Talk about Minnesota Timberwolves'. I thought as I hid behind some bushes, it would have been really nice if I knew how to breath fire. I don't even know how to fight, so I can't just jump in blindly, but at the same time I can't just leave them there to get devoured. my thoughts were broken by the sound of the wolves now barking at the three small filly who were now crying.

"I better survive this." I say to myself launching myself from my hiding place and into plain view, knocking one of the wooden wolves closest to the fillies before it could pounce. I lowered my upper body and growled my teeth in front of the three fillies facing the wolves like a mother protecting its young causing the four wolves attention to turn to me and not the fillies.

'Yeah, I really hope I don't die.'

(third-person)

Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo were astonished and in shock of not only the newcomers sudden arrival, but that it was a dragon, of all things, protecting them. He had purple scales and eyes, orange spines that ran from his tail all the way to his head, two orange horns, and reddish-orange wings. He was also pretty small compared to the dragons they've seen, he wasn't as big as Applebloom's brother, Big Mac, but he sure was close.

One of the timberwolves pounced at the dragon and tackling him to the ground causing the girls to scream in terror. The timberwolf pinned the dragon but got quickly kicked off by the dragon's back legs. The dragon quickly got back to his feet and sidestepped another wolf that tried to pounce causing it to slam into a tree before the wolf could recover, the dragon sank its jaws into the wolf's neck causing it to ooze out a sap like substance. The wolf howled in pain before being thrown in to another tree shattering it into splinters. The remaining three wolves circled the dragon snarling in anger for their fallen comrade.

One of the wolves charged the dragon, but as he was about to dodge the attack another one of the timberwolves sunk its teeth around his body and threw him across the ground like a rag doll. The dragon could feel something warm and wet on his underbelly, he knew it was blood but his adrenaline was going so fast he didn't feel the pain. The same timberwolf charged again, the dragon growling in anger ran to intercept him and lowered its horns, which were now covered in orange flames, when the two collided the wolf bursted into a fiery blaze . The dragon panting looking at his horns, which the flames now dissipated and were now smoking, wondering how he did that.

He was snapped from his thoughts when one of the wolves swiped him across the face knocking him to the ground, blood starting to trail down his scaley muzzle. The wolf took the opportunity to encase the dragon's head in his jaws only for the dragon to grab it with his claws, the two struggled for dominance, the dragon was bloodied and bruised and was losing his stamina fast. Using all his strength he had left he broke of the jaw of the timberwolf causing it to go limp. He kicked it off him and wobbled to his feet and glanced at the final wolf he presumed to be the alpha.

The trio of fillies watched in shock and horror from behind a bush. "We have to help him!" said Sweetie Belle with a worried expression.

"Are you crazy Sweetie Belle?!" replied Scootaloo, "We have no chance of helping him, plus if we did manage to that he'll just come after us!"

"But we can't just let him get killed!"

"Ah' have ta' agree with Sweetie, he is risking his life to save us right now." commented Applebloom.

Scootaloo groaned in annoyance, "Come on Scoots, just think of it as us getting a cutie mark in saving a dragon from a timberwolf." said Sweetie with a pleading look.

Scootaloo expression softened and gave a defeated sigh, "Alright, what's the plan?"

The dragon skidded across the ground on his side his eyes clenched shut from the pain of cuts and bruises on his body. He was covered in blood and had a few cracked ribs. He slightly opened on eye, and started to crawl where he last saw the fillies only to be turned on his back by the alpha timberwolf. The wof placed a paw on his underbelly and pressed down, the dragon screamed in pain his cracked ribs now broken. The dragon closed his eyes as the wolf's jaws came closer to his face..............only for a rock to collide wto the side of it's head.

The wolf turned its head and found the same three fillies he and his pack were chasing earlier. "THATS your plan! Throwing a rock at it!?" yelled Scootaloo.

"Well ya' have ah' better idea?!" snapped back Applebloom.

"Uh, g-g-girls?" stuttered Sweetie Belle as the three fillies now saw the alpha timberwolf making its way over to them. The three fillies threw more rocks at the incoming wolf but it only shrugged them off and continued to advance.

"It was nice knowing you girls." cried Scootaloo. The three fillies huddled up together until the timberwolf was looming over them. It's terrible breath filling their nostrils making the three fillies gag at the smell. The three fillies bursted into tears as the timberwolf opened its jaws ready for its meal.

My body ached all over, my wings, and wrist have been sprained, and I had a few broken ribs. I wobbled to my feet and observed the puddle of blood below me, my blood. A high pitched scream interrupts me as I snap my head over to see the wooden wolf holding the small white unicorn in its paw and holding her down as her other two friends were cuddled up watching in fear.

Anger boiled up inside me, I never felt this way towards something(or in this case somepony) before. I stand up at full height ignoring the pain in my body and let out a mighty roar.

"HEY BALTO!!" I scream gaining the wolf's attention. I took a deep breath and and let out a ball of fire at the wolf. It collided with its head and exploded in a fiery blaze dropping the little white unicorn. I fell to the ground breathing heavily and slowly, I could see the little unicorn run up to me with a worried expression ignoring the protests of her friends galloping after her. I'm not even surprised that they can talk after what I encountered so far.

I could feel her shaking me trying to get me on my feet but my body was too strained. "Please, please, please don't die." I heard her whisper, and that was the last thing I heard before everything went black.

Act 1: A New Friend

View Online

"Come on girls, help me move him!" said Sweetie Belle as she was under the injured drake trying to lift him off the ground.

"Are you crazy, Sweetie!? There is no way I am getting near that thing!" said Scootaloo, causing Sweetie Belle to freeze at what she was doing.

"Why not? He helped saved us, so the right thing to do is to bring him to the Ponyville hospital!" Sweetie Belle couldn't believe Scootaloo wasn't helping her. She would've have thought seeing and being close to a dragon was cool, but here she is acting like the drake was going to pounce on them at any second, when clearly , it couldn't even move due to it's injuries from it's fight with the timberwolves. Even though, it was HER stupid idea to come in the Everfree without the adults.

"You're with me right Applebloom? We can't just bring a fire breathing dragon where we live, where he might go on a rampage!" said Scootaloo, as all attention was focused on to Applebloom. She now felt like Sweetie Belle when she and Scootaloo would argue, they would ask her to make the final decision.

"W-w-well..." stuttered Applebloom.

"See that! She's thinks that this idea is crazy?!" interrupted Scootaloo.

"Nuh-uh! She thinks we need to help him!" protested Sweetie Belle. Applebloom watched as her two friends friends bickered back and forth, on whether to help the dragon or to leave him and get out of the forest. She glanced at the injured dragon, battered and broken, she did want to help the fallen creature, but if they did bring the drake in to Ponyville it would most likely cause a massive panic. That's when an idea came into her head.

"GIRLS!" screamed Applebloom gaining her two friends attention, "We can't take i- him into Ponyville-"

"HA!" interrupted Scootaloo.

"But we can't jus' leave him here while he is hurt." Applebloom continued while the other two crusaders just looked at eachother confused at where Applebloom was going at.

"So what are we going to do?" asked Sweetie Belle.

"Come on girls, who do we know that technically doesn't lives in Ponyville, AND knows how to make ya' feel better when ya'll get hurt."

Then it finally clicked into the other crusaders' mind.

"There is no way she would help!" protested Scootaloo

"I'm with Scootaloo on this one, you know how she is." added Sweetie Belle

"Well, we won't know unless we try, plus look at him." said Applebloom as all three of them looked at the purple dragon groaning in pain his eyes clenched shut.

"Okay." Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo simply said as they helped Applebloom lift the unconscious dragon struggling to keep him upright.

"Wow, this guy weighs a ton!" complained Scootaloo, "this has better be worth it."

"Don't worry her house isn't that far from here." said Applebloom as the three crusaders carried the dragon through the dense forest.

"I hope she doesn't freak out too much." said Sweetie Belle with a worried expression.

Fluttershy hummed a quiet tone in her home as she had just finished feeding her animal friends their lunch. She smiled at the rest of her animals enjoying her food, even Angel, her pet bunny, is enjoying his food munching happily rather throwing a fit on what kind of food he is being served. Letting out a light giggle she walked over and sat on her couch, she glanced on the end table a saw the book she had borrowed from Twilight. The title read The Creatures of Equestria and Beyond, she opened the cover excited to read the book, like Rainbow Dash getting a new Daring Do book for Hearth's Warming.

"Okay, Chapter one," Fluttershy started, this was going to be the perfect day for her.

KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK

Startled by the sudden banging by her door Fluttershy slowly put down her book, and quietly slipped off the couch trying not to make a sound. Who could be banging on her door like that, it couldn't have been her friends, they would never bang like that unless something was wrong. Wait....maybe something DID happen like Tirek escaping again or Little Pip getting trapped down the well!!

KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK

"Fluttershy? Are ya' there?" said a familiar young southern voice.

Fluttershy let out a sigh of relief it wasn't anything serious. She came up to the door and opened it only to be greeted by Applebloom who look like she had seen better days. Her mane was frizzy, she was covered in dirt, and her bow was partially undone, but the worst part was the sadness and fear that was expressed on her face.

"Applebloom?! What happened?! Are you okay!?" said Fluttershy in a worried tone.

"A-a-ah'm fine." replied Applebloom with a fearful expression, "but we need ya' help."

"Of course I'll help-" Fluttershy stopped and thought for a second, "Wait.....we?.....Where are everypony else?"

"That's the thing," started Applebloom who looked at the ground shamefully, "Me and the girls went crusadin' today hopin' once again that we will get our cutie marks. So Scootaloo decided that we should get our cutie marks in potion making.......so we went to see Zecora.......then the timberwolves.....then he got hurt....and we really need ya'll help!"

"Applebloom I am going to need you to slow down and tell me who is hurt?" asked Fluttershy trying to sound as soothing as possible, pulling Applebloom into a warm embrace. The yellow filly took a deep breath and nodded breaking the hug.

"O-okay, just don't freak out." stated Applebloom as Fluttershy cocked her head to the side in a mixture of worry and confusion. What did she mean not to freak out? And whoever that was hurt, was it that bad? 'No need for those thoughts right now Fluttershy, somepony needs is injured and right now you are the only pony that can help' thought Fluttershy who simply nodded in confirmation to Applebloom, who simply nodded back.

"Alright girls, ya'll can come out now!" called out Applebloom as Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo came from around the side of Fluttershy's cottage struggling to carry a purple.......scaly........winged.........sharp toothed.......dragon! Fluttershy let out a cry and flew with with speeds that would make Rainbow Dash proud and slammed the door.

The three fillies sighed in disappointment knowing that this was not going to be easy to convince Fluttershy to nurse the dragon back to health. "Hey Applebloom, let me try to talk to her." said Sweetie Belle as Applebloom shrugged as she replaced Sweetie position holding up the young dragon.

"Ah' don't know whatchya' gonna do, but good luck." said Applebloom as Sweetie knocked on the door to Fluttershy's cottage.

"Get that dragon out of here!" yelled Fluttershy in side filled with fear.

"Come on Fluttershy, he's a nice dragon he won't bite!" said back Sweetie Belle.

"No!"

"Please Fluttershy! He saved us from a pack of timberwolves and is hurt really, REALLY bad!" Would you ever let any animal or critter be in pain just because they were different." Those words hit Fluttershy like a brick to the head. She had a regretful look in her eyes as she looked to the ground in shame, only to see Angel bunny with his little white arms crossed and shaking his head, signaling her not to open the door.

"I'm sorry, Angel, but their right no matter how scary or different somepony maybe, I have to help them in need." stated Fluttershy. Angel bunny let out a sigh of defeat and hopped away and under the couch not wanting to be seen by the scaly dragon when he wakes up. Fluttershy took a deep breath and opened the door slightly just enough for a fraction of her face to be shown through the crack of the door.

"O-o-okay, girls I'll see w-w-what I can d-d-d-do." stuttered Fluttershy as the crusaders let out a squeal in accomplishment and relief. The crusaders carried the unconscious dragon, Fluttershy's help, and laid him on the couch. Fluttershy gasped in shock now that she got a closer look at the young drake. his body was covered in gashes with fresh blood slowly oozing out the wounds, bruises covered his face, and his right wing bent awkwardly. Fluttershy had to look away for a moment and fight back tears, no one deserved this, even if you are a dragon.

"Fluttershy? Are you ok?" asked Scootaloo snapping Fluttershy from her thoughts.

"I-I'm fine, it's just a lot to take in." Fluttershy answered, who then suddenly got a serious expression on her face, "Applebloom I need you to get some cleaning alcohol out the bathroom, Sweetie Belle I need you to get the medical kit in my room, and Scootaloo I need you to get some hot water." The crusaders were taken back at Fluttershy's sternness but shrugged it off and nodded and went to fetch the things for Fluttershy.

Fluttershy then turned her attention back to the purple dragon, she could hear his breaths, slow and steady, which was a good sign. She inspected the dragon further, by feeling around his scales for any other injuries, which were some broken ribs and a sprained wrist. The dragon to Fluttershy's surprise felt warm and soft, as she prodded him some more she made a mental note that he didn't have any fatal injuries.

Something then popped in to Fluttershy's head, why was she helping this dragon? Yeah, it's the right thing to do, but she is terrified of dragons. Here she is though examining one for injuries like a foal. She also felt something different about this dragon, he wasn't like the other dragons she encountered, there was something off.

"We got everything you need Fluttershy!" said Sweetie Belle as her and the rest of the crusaders set down the medical supplies next to Fluttershy.

"Thank you girls," said Fluttershy, "if you want to go home don't let me stop you, I know you girls been through a lot today."

"No way! This is my first time seeing a dragon up close!" protested Scootaloo.

"Plus we need ta' thank him for savin' us when he wakes up." added Applebloom.

"Okay, just do what I say his injuries might not be fatal, but they are major so just please try to be still." said Fluttershy as the crusaders nodded in agreement. Fluttershy took the gauge from the medical kit and dipped it in the alcohol, then placed it on one of the dragons wounds. The purple drake then flinched at the pain in his unconscious state, Fluttershy acting quickly rubbed her hoof on the dragon's head caressing it like a mother cooing to the dragon that everything is going to be alright.

"Don't worry, you're safe now. Everything is going to be alright." softly said Fluttershy as she continued to clean the wounds of the dragon not noticing the awestruck crusaders behind her, surprised that she is taking a dragon in her home rather well.

"Girls, I need you to promise me something" said Fluttershy.

"What is it?" asked Sweetie Belle.

"I need you to keep this from everypony else, I don't know how they'll react with a dragon being in my home and I don't want there to be a misunderstanding and another pony getting hurt."

"Don't worry you can count on us!" saluted Scootaloo with a determined expression plastered on her face.

"Thank you girls," said Fluttershy as she continued to wrap the cloth around the purple dragon's torso.

"Hey James!"

I opened my eyes quickly at the familiar voice, hoping it's who I though it was. No it couldn't be, she's not supposed to be here. I looked around my surroundings in shock and happiness, I was back at comic-con.......as a human.......not a dragon!

"Yo, dragon!"

My ears perk up in disbelief and look down at myself again and notice that I am once again a dragon. "You have got to be kidding me! I just got here!" I thought to myself. My surroundings now a pitch black and slowly consuming me, I start to panic and try to fly off only for my wings not to work and allowing the darkness to consume my whole body.

Have you ever gotten those dreams where everything is pitch black, and you can't move or speak? Well that was me and it felt like hours since i was lie this. Until i heard another voice, but this time it was mine! It sounded disoriented and kind of demonic like I was possessed.

"I'll be coming soon." and that was all the demonic voice of me said.

"What?" was all I can say before a purple ball of fire came out of no where and started to hurdle towards me.

I woke up with a startle, covered in sweat and breathing heavily, only to lay back down from the pain in my chest and my right wing. I noticed that somebody had wrapped my torso with my wings folded to the sides in cloth and a a bandage wrapped around my head.'What happened? Where am I?What was with that dream? And that ball of fire?' I thought, thinking about the dream and looking around instantly noticing that I wasn't in the forest anymore and those three fillies were nowhere to be seen.

I was lying on what look like a green couch with a candle lit beside it. I glanced to see a window and noticed the morning rays of the sun seeping through, trying to push my body to get a better position on the couch I immediately fell flat on my face. 'Yeah, not a good idea' I think to myself groaning in pain, I tried to move my limbs but none of them are deciding to respond for the time being 'Well that's just damn perfect' I think to myself as a light gasp snaps me from my thoughts.

I turn my head (which is the only thing working in my body for the moment) to see a butter, yellow pegasus, with a long pink mane and tail, with the biggest teal eyes I've seen in my life, coming down some stairs. She gives a light whimper and retreats back up the stairs leaving me on the floor, still not able to move.

"Okay so I'm not imagining the multi-colored horses, glad I'm not going crazy." I say to myself as I start to get feeling in my arms and legs again, standing slowly, I limp back on the couch trying to ignore the pain in my chest and sit straight up on the couch. I then heard a thump the top of the stairs, knowing that it was probably the yellow pegasus.

"You don't have to just sit there and stare you know." I called out to the pegasus getting an 'eep' in return. I watched as the yellow pegasus slowly made her way down the stairs averting her gaze from me. When she makes it down the stairs and just sits there looking at the floor in front of me. There is an awkward silence between us.

"Sooo, uh, were you the one that patched me up?" I asked breaking the silence.

"Well, um...yes." whispered the pegasus another silence.

"Well my name is James, what's your's?"

"Fluttershy."

"I'm sorry, what was that?"

"I said my name is Fluttershy."

Another silence.

"Thanks for patching me up."

"Oh...um...it was nothing, I should be thanking you for saving the girls though." said Fluttershy finally making eye contact with me, showing me her teal irises. 'So I'm guessing those three fillies brought me here, I thought before noticing I was staring off in space, slightly scaring the pegasus.

"Are you ok?" she asked.

"Oh, heh heh, sorry I tend to space off sometimes." I laugh nervously rubbing the back of my head, "If you don't mind me asking how long was I out?" I asked as she put a hoof to her chin.

"Only since yesterday, when the crusaders brought you."

"Crusaders?"

"The three fillies that you saved."

"What happened to them anyways?" I asked as I noticed that they were no where to be found.

"Oh don't worry they went home after they dropped you off." said Fluttershy as we both were silent as my stomach growled for food again. Fluttershy gave a cute giggle as I felt my cheeks warm up in embarrassment. "Sorry, the stomach is always demanding for food ya' know?" I say to Fluttershy making her chuckle again. I try to get off the couch only to wince in pain. Fluttershy quickly grabbed me before I fell over and slowly set me on the couch.

"You're not ready to move on your own yet," said Fluttershy, "I'll go get you some breakfast, just wait right here." Why is she doing all of this? I've never met someone so kind in my life, and live(or lived in this case) in L.A. so that's saying something. "Hey Fluttershy before you leave can I ask you something?" I ask gaining her attention.

"Why are you doing this? Helping me, what I meant." I say again.

"Well, I always help somepony in need, I learned in my life that if you show enough kindness to everypony in your life you'll get the same treatment back." she says with a smile as she trots of in the kitchen.

I sit on the couch thinking about Fluttershy's words, still trying to believe that someone is willing to be this kind without getting something back in return. My thoughts were then interrupted when Fluttershy came through the door with what looked like a sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and a toothpick sticking out the top with an olive.

She sets the plate down next to me and I gobble it up in seconds, I didn't feel fully satisfied with the sandwich but it's going to have to do for now. I look to see Fluttershy, with a fearful expression on her face. I cock my head to the side wondering what was wrong with her. "Ya'll alright, Fluttershy?" I asked as her fearful gaze turned into a one of sorrow.

"Sorry, it's just that...um...well...." she says now playing with her hooves.

"What is it?" I ask again trying to get the answer out of her so I can help her.

"I-I....kinda have.....a phobia of dragons." she says quietly as she looks down at the ground, what looked like she was ashamed at what she said.

"Hey there is no need to be sad, we all have our fears." I say as her mood brightens up a little bit.

"You're not mad?"

"Why would I be mad, all you've been since I got here was be the kindest pers....uh...pony I have ever met."

"Well...um....thank you for the kind words."

"No probs, what are friends for?"

"You really think of me as a friend?" she asks as I noticed what I just said. 'Wow, did i really just say that? I must have been caught in the moment, I tend to do that sometimes.' I thought to myself.

"Well...yeah." there was another awkward silence for a moment, but was then broken from me yawning, "Well, I am going to take a nap if you don't mind, that is."

"Oh no, get all the rest you need, if you need me just call out. I'll just be outside." she says as i nodd in confirmation. I watch her go out the front door of the house leaving me alone in the room. I glance at the clock on the wall and noticed it was ten-thirty in the morning, I curled up on the couch and I thought of what I was going to do next.

"I can't stay here forever, i have to get better sometime and when i do she'll probably just kick me out, since she does have a phobia of dragons, maybe I'll just wander around and see what I'll bump in to." I say to myself as I felt my eyelids start to feel heavy.

"She has been very kind to me though*yawn*maybe she'll help me find a place to stay for the time being, and who knows maybe she'll let me stay here, but I doubt that would happen." I chuckle to myself and curl up closer to the cushion of the couch and fell into a deep slumber.

Act 1: A New Game of Hide and Seek

View Online

It has been a week since Fluttershy took me in, and surprisingly all my my injuries are fully healed, but my body still feels like I’ve been ran over by a bus. Probably from laying on that couch for so long, but other than that I feel fantastic! I stretched my limbs and let out a long yawn, as I started to move off the couch, until I felt something nibbling my tail. Stopping, I turned my head to see Angel, Fluttershy's pet rabbit, being squished by the weight of my tail.

"Oops, sorry little dude." I apologized lifting my tail giving the white rabbit some air, who simply glared at me and hopped off. 'How did he get under there in the first place?' I thought but simply shrugged it off and moved off the couch to see if Fluttershy needed anything.

Speaking of Fluttershy, she was a great help with my injuries over the past week. She gave me medicine, food, and even a toothbrush while I was temporarily handicapped! It also turns out that she and her other friends are part of a group called the,,,,Helements of Armory....I think it was.....I don't know, I'm going to have to ask her later. Anyways after I told her I was lost (minus the part of being a human from another world), she told me that I was in a place called Ponyville in a country called Equestria.

Walking in the kitchen I spotted Fluttershy who seems to be cooking something on the stove, and it smelt delicious! "Good morning Fluttershy, watchya' cooking?" I ask.

"Oh, good morning to you too, James," she answers with a smile, "just making some pancakes."

"They smell good."

"Thank you, they should be ready soon." nodding in confirmation I sat down at the table, and started to hum a little toon. When the pancakes got finished Fluttershy brought them over and set my plate down in front of me while she put hers across the table. "You seem to be feeling better today." she says snapping me from my trance of the heavenly pancakes in front of me.

"Yeah, still a little sore though but I'll be alright." I answer cutting a piece of my pancakes and popping it in my mouth savoring the taste.

"Did you have a good sleep last night, because you sweating and moving around a lot." I suddenly stop eating the pancakes at the question. The truth is I've been having that same nightmare over and over again, where it is the same routine. My voice that sounds demonic.........purple ball of fire.....blackness.....and repeat. But I don't want Fluttershy to worry.

"I'm fine...it's just...uh....it was really hot last night." I quickly said mentally slapping myself from that terrible lie.

"Oh..um..ok?"

We ate in silence for the next ten minutes, I would catch her glancing at me from time to time and then quickly look away, but decide to shrug it off like I didn't notice. After we finished eating I thanked her for the meal and took both our plates to wash them in the sink.

"Oh, you don't have to do that." she protested.

"No, its fine," I say back, "plus you've been doing so much for me, it's time I did something for you."

"Well,..um..ok..if you want to."

"Are you ok? Your acting more timid than usual."

"Well it's just that..."

KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK

Fluttershy was then cut off by a series of knocks on the door. She excuses herself and walks to the door, I then heard her gasp from the other room making me nervous. I quickly jump out of my chair and made my way over to the living room to see Fluttershy with a scared expression on her face and the crusaders with guilty looks on their faces. Speaking of Applebloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo ,we have grown very close in the past week, they apologized about the whole timberwolf incident, but I simply said it was fine. They have been visiting me, while I've been handicapped, to tell me about their adventures or to bring me some apple soup, but that's besides the point something was wrong and I'm going to find out what.

"What's wrong?" I ask lifting an eyebrow.

"W-w-well...um..." structured Fluttershy playing with her hooves on the round.

"We kind of......accidently......told m'ah sista' that, you were staying at Fluttershy's." said Applebloom.

"So? What's wrong with that?" I asked not getting why such it is such a big idea that they told someone I'm here.

"Well...Applebloom's sister, Applejack, didn't take it too well." added Sweetie Belle.

"Yeah, she totally flipped out! Before we could explain to her that you were really, really cool she took off to get the rest of her friends and are coming here right at this moment, to put you down!" exclaimed Scootaloo.

‘That’s not good.’ "Wait, then how did you get here before them then?" I asked.

"Well, duhhhh! We ran here as fast as we can when Applejack stormed off."

"Then what are going we to do?" I asked. Fluttershy and the crusaders all shrugged with sad looks on their faces, I can't just leave them. Maybe if I just fly out and.....no, because if what Fluttershy told me about Rainbow Dash being the fastest flier in Equestria, and this Twilight Sparkle being an all powerful alicorn was true, I might be in trouble. Fighting my way out is definitely not an option, since first I'll probably lose even though I maybe have at most seventy-five percent of my strength back, plus I don’t want Fluttershy and the crusaders to think I’m some monster.

"What if you just hide somewhere in the cottage, then I'll convince the girls that his was all a misunderstanding." suggested Fluttershy in her usually quiet voice.

"That...might work." I reply putting a claw to my chin.

Our attention was then interrupted from the loud banging on the door. The five of us jump in surprise and quickly glance at the door. "Fluttershy! Are ya' in there?!" called a female voice with a strong southern accent.

"Coming." called out Fluttershy before turning to me and the crusaders, "Girls, go take James and hide him in the kitchen."

The crusaders and I nod in confirmation and quickly and quietly head to the kitchen, "So where am I supposed to hide." I asked trying to find out where to hide.

"How about under the table?" asked Scootaloo.

"No, Scoots that's too obvious." I reply. I panicked as I hear the front door opening and quickly jump in a random cabinet and shutting it. I hear the crusaders groan in defeat outside the cabinet as I shuffle around in the cramped space and mentally cursing under my breath.

"This is some bullshit."

Fluttershy was taken back by her friends, barging in as she opened the door to let them in."Um...hello girls, w-w-what brings you here?" asked Fluttershy looking around nervously.

"Fluttershy are you ok?!" asked Twilight worriedly, "where's the dragon at?"

"Yeah! I'm read to pummel this guy in a pulp when I get my hooves on him!" exclaimed Rainbow Dash.

"Um..girls,,,if you might calm down for a sec-"

"Come on we gotta' find this thang before it hurts anypony else." said Applejack cutting off Fluttershy, "Don't ya' worry Shy, your in good hooves now. Now ah' want ya' ta' stay here with Rares here until we find this varmit ya' here?" Fluttershy sighed in defeat and nodded, knowing that when it came to Applejack's stubbornness, it would be like talking to a brick wall.

"Alright girls here's the plan," said Twilight , "Applejack you search the kitchen, Rainbow you got outside we don't want him trying to escape, Pinkie and I will check up stairs, Rarity, take Fluttershy back to your place and make sure she is safe. We'll meet back there once we handled the dragon." The six gave an affirmative nod and went their separate ways to find the drake, hiding in Fluttershy's house.

Applejack walked in the kitchen and was shocked to see the crusaders in the middle of the floor with huge grins on their faces. Judging from past experiences, she knew they were up to something. "Applebloom! Ah' told ya'll ta' stay at the house!" Applejack scolded.

"But we wanted to help and..uhh-"

"Get our cutie marks in dragon catching!" quickly said Sweetie belle saving Applebloom. James sat in the cabinet watching the whole conversation take place. He figured the orange mare, known as Applejack, tell the crusaders to go back to the to a farm. 'Must be where she lives' thought James as he immediately went stiff as he saw Applejack walking his way.

He covered his mouth with a claw too make sure his breathing wasn't too loud. Sweat now pouring dow his face he watched through the crack of the cabinet as Applejack was now opening and shutting each one. James' heart sped up as she got closer and closer, Everything went still as he saw her shadow consume the light in the cabinet.

"Crap, it's all or nothing." James said to himself bursting out the cabinets, knocking over Applejack in the process and running towards the set of stairs that led up to the second floor.

"Twilight! Pinkie! The little varmit is coming your way!" called out Applejack as she got to her hooves and ran up stairs following the purple drake.

I reached the top of the stairs and entered the hallway, only to run in the bathroom, hearing to more voices getting closer. I quickly shut off the lights and fly up to the ceiling and clinging my sharp claws in to it. I watched the door get surrounded by a purple aura and slowly open, to see two more of Fluttershy's friends walk in. One was a purple pony with a horn and wings, which I assumed was Twilight Sparkle and a pink pony, with a cotton candy like mane and tail, which I assumed was Pinkie Pie.

"Come out, come out wherever you are!" yelled Pinkie.

"Please, come out we just want to talk to you and ask a few questions." called out Twilight,Yeah, like I'm falling for that trick I think to myself. Getting ready to make my move, Twilight flipped on the light switch, they both looked up and saw me on the ceiling of the bathroom. Before they could react I shot a small ball of fire at their hooves making them jump in surprise, before dashing out the door closing it and locking it from the outside. Why Fluttershy has a door that locks from the outside I have no idea.

"Wait if she has a horn does that mean-" I was quickly blinded by a purple flash as the pony known as Twilight appeared in front of me.'Damn it! I forgot the ones with the horns can do that!' letting my instincts take over I lowered my body to the ground and showed my teeth starting to growl, intimidating her to back off.

Until I felt a rope wrap around my neck.

With a strong yank I was pulled of my feet and hitting the floor back first. Getting back to my feet I saw twilight unlocking the bathroom door for Pinkie, while I saw Applejack holding a rope in her teeth yanking me towards her like a dog on a leash. "Now are ya' gonna come with us nicely or do we have ta' drag ya' back?" asked Applejack struggling to pull me close to her but thanks to my increased strength she was having more trouble than she thought.

Until I started to rise up in the air.

I looked to see Twilight with her horn glowing suspending me in the air with a purple aura. "Please, just come with us we promise we won't hurt you." she said with pleading eyes. You know if I didn't have a rope around my neck like an animal and being held against my will I might have believed her. How did I get into this mess anyways?

A window then caught my eye, If only if I could get out of this grip, I think to myself, yeah there is probably another one of them waiting for me but I have a better chance fleeing to the skies than trying to hide in the house again. Concentrating I channeled the magic in my body to my horns causing them to engulf in flames. The three ponies surrounding looked in shock as I took the opportunity to use the magical embers on my horns to break the magical aura and using my teeth to bite off the rope that was around my neck.

I quickly made a mad dash for the window and stopped and turned back to see twilight, Pinkie, and Applejack still looking at me in shock.

"Sorry!" I scream out before jumping out the window and taking towards the forest hoping to lose my pursuers. My victory was then cut short when a blue pegasus with a rainbow mane blocked my way to the entrance of the forest, which from what Fluttershy told me was Rainbow Dash. "You have got to be kidding me!" I yelled before doing a quick u-turn in the air and zooming back to where I came. I looked back to see Rainbow Dash gaining speed on me.

'Fluttershy wasn't kidding when she said she was fast' I thought as I spotted the town, known as Ponyville up ahead. A bolt of magenta flew past me snapping me out of my thoughts. I turned my head around to see Twilight flying beside Rainbow Dash, firing magical blasts from her horn.

"This bitch, is trying to kill me!" I yell as I dodged another bolt of magic.

"Please, just stop I don't want to hurt you!" I heard Twilight scream from behind me.

"Says the one firing death rays at me!" I snap back, deciding to fly over the town trying to lose the two winged mares, until something catches my eye. There was Fluttershy walking with a white unicorn with a stylish purple mane I suspected as Rarity, since that's the only one I haven't encountered on this goose chase so far.

I pick up the speed trying to catch up to the yellow pegasus, but Rainbow Dash, noticing me getting closer to Fluttershy, had other plans and tackled me at the last second causing us to crash on the dirt ground of the town rolling like ragdolls causing ponies to move out the way. She pins me to the ground and rears back her hoof to give me a jab to the snout but thanks to my reflexes I push her off in one swift motion so can get up to all fours in a defensive stance against the rainbow pegasus. "You're gonna pay for what you done!" yelled Rainbow Dash giving me a death glare.

"What did I do?!" I asked in confusion.

"Don't play stupid with me!" she yelled stepping closer to me, "you'll never hurt Fluttershy again!"

"What are you talking about? Fluttershy has been taking care of me for the past week!"

"Don't lie to me! Fluttershy would've told us if she was doing something that crazy, especially if it's a dragon."

Without warning Rainbow Dash slams into me making me fall on my side, I quickly recovered and charged her igniting my horns in flames which she easily dodged by flying in the air. Rainbow then, with the speed of a bullet rammed into my side again causing me to yell out in pain and skid across the dirt. I get up and let out a ball of fire which Rainbow dodged, I let out a couple more one at a time but getting the same result with me missing her everytime.
"You really think you can hit me?" Rainbow boasted. She was right I can't hit her with just my fire blast....unless. I chuckled as I took a deep breath ready to unleash another ball of fire.

"Your really trying that again? I guess you're more stupider than you look!" she yells as I gave her a sly grin. She cocked her head in confusion at my response but soon her expression turned to fear as I launched not one but three blasts of fire at her at the same time. She managed to dodge two of them but the third one exploded right next her knocking her out of the sky and crashing to the ground.

As she slowly got to my hooves I stuck out my tongue in response causing her to enter a blind rage and charge me. Thanks to her not paying attention I simply side stepped her next attack and tripping her with my tail, making her fall face first into the ground. I mentally chuckled but only to get a buck to the nose in return. Now getting angry I launched another ball of fire at her hooves making her fly back into a cart full of apples. Before I could celebrate my victory though, I got hit in the side by something hot as I flew and collided to the side of a nearby building.

Dazed from the hit I turn my head to see the attacker, only to be met with Twilight once again. "Listen here mister, I am just going to say this once..NOPONY hurts my friends!" she says with a hint of venom in her eyes. I gulp in fear and got back to my feet, Twilight then charges up her horn causing a wave of purple sparkles and light to gush around her. She then unleashes a powerful blast of pink magic at me. I close my eyes waiting for the worst but nothing came, I cracked an eye open to see in surprise a fiery shield surrounding me. Twilight mouth was agape and so was mine honestly, mentally thanking God for this I let out a sigh of relief and the flaming shield dissipated. I then notice Applejack just arriving and out of breath, probably from running from Fluttershy's house to here, went up to Twilight's side and Rainbow Dash, who recovered, joining them as the three of them started to advance on me.

'Shit! I'm really in for it now!' I thought as I noticed the crowd of growing ponies observe my struggle with the three ponies, at that moment I knew I messed up.....until something or somepony caught my eye…...there was Fluttershy(along with her friend Rarity) with a look of fear and sadness in her eyes. We locked eye contact for a second before I broke it and let out a sad sigh,'I'm sorry, Fluttershy.' I thought solemnly as I gave a serious expression to the tree ponies in front of me.

Standing my ground showing no signs of weakness as the three ponies advanced on my position I let out a mighty roar causing them to cover their ears. I then concentrated all the energy in my body and transferred it to my maw, which was now glowing a bright yellow and orange. Twilight quickly casted a shield over her, Rainbow, and Applejack as I let out a ball of fire about the size of a small house. It impacted the shield causing a small explosion to engulf the three ponies. The crowd of ponies gasped in horror and shock at my new technique that I just learned.

As the smoke cleared I noticed that Twilight still had her shield(which now had cracks all over it) intact, and successfully blocked the attack, but I could tell she couldn't hold out much longer. She was sweating and her eyes looked like they might close any second now. Applejack and Rainbow glared at me while I glared back waiting on who will make the next move.......until I noticed something important.

'Wait? Weren't there four of them chasing me?' I thought before I felt a tap on my shoulder by a pink hoof and being hit in the face by rusty frying pan and collapsing to the ground.

The last thing I heard was the sound of cheering ponies and Fluttershy calling out my name before darkness consumed me.

Act 1: A New Discussion

View Online

The ponies all cheered in joy and happiness as the purple dragon fell face first into the dirt of Ponyville, no match from the might of Pinkie Pie's frying pan. Applejack and Rainbow was trying to keep Twilight upright so she wouldn't collapse on the ground, as Pinkie bounced over to the three with a happy grin on her face.

"Thanks Pinkie, you really came through when we needed ya'." thanked Applejack.

"Oh, no problem! At first I thought he was just really, really afraid and just needed a friend, but then I saw him attacking you girls so I was like 'hmmmmmm they need help' so I got my emergency skillet and came to the rescue!" answered Pinkie as the three ponies giggled.

"Pinkie Pie you are sooooo random!" said Rainbow.

Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow, and Pinkie all slowly walked over to the downed dragon, observing the purple drake carefully not wanting any surprise attacks, as Fluttershy and Rarity came out the crowd to join their friends. Fluttershy at the least didn't know what to feel for the dragon. she felt like she failed him for not trying to convince her friends to leave like she was supposed to do, but at the same time she was angry and disappointed that James had attacked her friends. Was James using self defense? Or was he not the dragon she thought he was?

"Fluttershy darling are you alright?" asked Rarity as the other four mares turned their attention to her.

"Um....yes.....maybe.. I don't know." whimpered Fluttershy, as she felt Applejack's hoof on her shoulder.

"It's alright sugarcube, as long as you're safe that's all that matters." comforted Applejack.

"But that's the thing......um...... I was never in....uh.....danger in the first place." stated Fluttershy causing all the girls to look at her in confusion. I Fluttershy wasn't being held captive, why was a dragon, one of Fluttershy's worst fears, was at her house?

"What do you mean by that Fluttershy?" asked Twilight.

"Yeah! If he wasn't keeping you hostage, then what was he doing at your house?! Besides Spike, don't you think it is a little risky to bring a dragon into your house!?" asked Rainbow Dash with a hint of anger and fear in her voice causing Fluttershy to let out an 'eep' and shrink to the ground.

"What Rainbow, is trying to say is why did you take this dragon to your house? And why didn't you tell us?" asked Twilight shooting a glare at Rainbow who slumped her shoulders in guilt.

"Well....he saved the crusaders from a timber wolf attack......and he was hurt really bad, so I thought I could fix him up......and I didn't want you girls to....um...overreact" answered Fluttershy stuttering almost every syllable afraid of what her friends reaction might be. The five mare were taken back at Fluttershy's response and immediately felt guilty as they glanced at the unconscious dragon on the ground.

"Fluttershy...I...we...." Twilight and the rest of the mares were lost for words unable what to say.

"It's fine really.....you girls were just trying to keep me safe." said Fluttershy.

"No it's not fine, we simply assumed you were in touble and attacked an inoccent pon- I mean dragon."

"Don't worry Twilight, I'm sure James will understand when he wakes up."

"Who's James?" asked Rainbow as Fluttershy pointed to the purple drake. The six mares sat in silence pondering on what to do next. The crowd of ponies slowly dissipated and went back to whatever they were doing for the day.

"How about we take him back to my place, so we can all apologize together about what happened, plus I can send Princess Celestia a message about how...unique he is." stated Twilight.

"What do you mean by unique?" asked Pinkie.

"Well when we had our...ahem....struggle I could sense that he was using magic with every attack he threw at us." explained Twilight.

"Twilight darling, I might not be as knowledgeable as you but I thought dragons aren't able to use magic?" stated Rarity.

"I did too, but I know a magical signature when I feel one which is why I need to get him to the castle ASAP."

With the rest of the mares agreeing they huddled up with the unconscious drake and teleported toward the crystal castle in the distance. Within a few seconds the six ponies and downed dragon poofed in the middle of the castle library startling another small purple dragon with green spines making him drop the books he was carrying.

"Twilight? What's going?" asked Spike, who then brought his attention to the other dragon laying on the ground, "And who is that!?"

"I'll explain later," said Twilight hoisting the purple drake on her back, "girls wait for me in the throne room I'll go set James down in one of the guest rooms. Spike come with me." the five mares nodded and went to the throne room while Spike followed Twilight to the guest rooms in her newly acquired castle.

As they reached the guest room Twilight opened the door and set the unconscious drake on the bed, and put a blanket over his body. Twilight had a sad expression on her face as she watched the dragon move in a comfortable position in the bed, "I'm so sorry." whispered Twilight loud enough for Spike to hear.

"So what happened?" asked Spike coming to her side.

"I did something a friend should never do Spike." started Twilight as tears started to form in the corner of her eyes, "I-I attacked this dragon for assuming it was going to hurt Fluttershy, without talking to him first and now I got an innocent pon- dragon hurt maybe even worse."

"Wow. That bad, huh?" Twilight nodded.

"What am I supposed to say when he wakes up Spike?"

"Well...uh...I don't know honestly, but if you really feel bad about it I would forgive you in a heart beat."

"You really think so?"

"I know so!" said Spike sticking out his chest in confidence as Twilight wiped her tears and gave Spike a hug, which he simply returned.

"That is why you are my number one assistant."

"Aw shucks," said a blushing Spike, "It was nothing now go with the rest of the girls I'll fill him in with the details when he wakes up."

"Thanks again Spike." said Twilight before flashing him a smile and leaving the room. Spike let out a deep sigh and grabbed a chair setting it beside the bed. He remembered the last time he interacted with dragons and it didn't turn out so well, but maybe just maybe this one will be different, but there was something else about this mysterious dragon Spike couldn't figure out.

It felt like he should know this dragon, like he was really important about something. Deciding to brush it off he watched the purple drake snore in his sleep wondering what he was dreaming about.

I am in darkness once again, but something is different, I can actually move! With curiosity overwhelming me, I walk around in the dark void, curious of what I might run into or how long this place goes. As I am walking I think back to the events that had transpired in Ponyville. I was knocked out by Pinkie Pie with a frying pan when I was fighting against the rest of Fluttershy's friends.

Oh crap, Fluttershy.

My eyes shot open at the realization that Fluttershy had just witnessed me fighting her friends and nearly killing them(which was unintentional). I let out a sad sigh, coming up with reasons why Fluttershy might hate me right now. "She might not even want to see me again after what happened." I say to myself as I let out a sad sigh and kept on walking in to the sea of black nothingness.

Your right you know.

I sighed in annoyance hearing the my other disembodied demonic voice again, the last time I had this dream. I try to ignore it just for it to go away, but surprisingly it's nice to talk to it about my problems for awhile, you know.

"What do you want?" I saw in a low tone trying not to be bothered.

Hey, I just want to talk! All I'm saying is that why should they forgive you? You pretty much attacked them first making you the enemy and who knows when you wake up, you might be in a cage or worse.

"Gee, thanks I really needed that." I say sarcastically rolling my eyes.

Just trying to help.

"Well, it's not working, maybe I should try to apologize, hopefully they would understand."

You know they won't. Come on forget about them, you're better off on your own. Ever since I got teleported to Equestria this voice kept disagreeing with everything I did and keeps bothering me like a fly hovering in your face, while trying to enjoy your lunch.

"Do you ever say anything positive?" I ask the voice in my head.

Of course, I do.

"Really, name one time you actually agreed with me?"

Uhhhh...

"Exactly my point."

Well I wouldn't be a dick if you gave me a damn body!

"You never asked!" I screamed now getting frustrated.

Are you sure? I'm pretty sure I did.

"No, you didn't."

Oh, than can I have a body then? I thought about it for minute. It will be less weird talking to someone in person than just their voice. Plus he could help me train whenever I go to sleep since this always happens when I do that, but he could just want a body so he can escape my thoughts and enter the physical world and try to take over Equestria......Nahhh! If this guy is just a copy of ME than what harm could he do....right?

"Alright fine." I simply said closing my eyes.

YES!!!!

Ignoring the cheer from 'my voice' as the darkness around me began to take form. My eyes widened in shock at what stood before me. For starters it was me, but at the same time something entirely different. What stood before me was a black dragon about my height, silver horns and wings, and two blood red eyes. My blood ran cold from figuring out why the voice sounded like mine, but I just couldn't believe. I know I've been turned into one of my favorite dragons in video game history but I didn't know it would come with HIM as well.

Standing before me with a wicked smile on his face was my(or Spyro's) doppleganger and opposite........Dark Spyro.

Before I could react the dark entity of myself launched a ball of purple fire right at my face and everything went black.

I woke up with a startle sweating again from the nightmare, but was it a nightmare? I know the last few times it was but.....something was different. "Hey, are you ok?" a voice said snapping me from my thoughts. I turned to see a small purple dragon with green spines looking at me with a look of concern on his face .

"Where am I?" I asked the little dragon.

"Well after Twilight brought you here-" he said as I instantly went pale at Twilight's name, remembering the scuffle we had earlier, the little dragon seemed to notice my scared expression.

"Oh, don't worry," he said waving a talon at me, "whatever happened between you and the rest of the girls, it was all a misunderstanding and want to apologize."

"Really? Because I was actually going to do that first."

"Why would you apologize?" he asked as I looked away in embarrassment.

"Well, I kind of attacked them first, because I thought they were going to do something to me so I decided to do something first." I said in shame. It was true I did attack them first when I knocked Applejack down when she opened the cabinet I was hiding in. I could've just gave up and tried to talk it out. Man, I really messed up.

"Are you sorry?" asked the little dragon.

"Yeah, but I will understand if they want to put me in a cell and why Fluttershy doesn't want to be my friend anymore." I say putting my head down in shame.

"Oh yeah, I forgot you were hanging with Fluttershy for a while. Hey, if it makes you feel better, Fluttershy said she wanted to say sorry as well."

She does? Why would she I was the one that screwed up, why would she feel bad for something I did? But it did give me relief that she still cared for me as a friend. I put on a small smile and nodded at the drake signaling that I was feeling better.

"Thanks I need th-" I started but then out of no where I let out a loud sneeze and in the process launching three ice spears in the wall.'Oh yeah!I forgot I can use other elements other than fire.' i thought as a the little dragon peeked from the side of the bed with a shocked expression on his face.

"That's new." I simply said.

'What...when..how?" stuttered the little dragon.

"What can't all dragons do that?"

"No, only thing dragons, that I know of, can breath is fire!"

"Huh, weird, but I'm James by the way." I say holding out a talon which the small purple dragon shook it in response.

"Nice to meet you James. My name is Spike! Number one assistant to Princess Twilight Sparkle!" he said puffing out his chest and gave a salute. I let out a small chuckle as I thought about the purple alicorn.'If I want a good relationship with the ponies here I have to sort things out with Twilight, Flutters, and the rest of the girls.' I think to myself.

"Speaking of Twilight, should we go see her so...uh...you know we can sort out about what happened earlier." I ask Spike.

"Oh yeah, follow me they should be still in the throne room right now." he says as he walks towards the door with me sliding out of the bed following in pursuit. I was glad that I felt one-hundred percent again, but I caught a glimpse at a mirror in the room and stopped in my tracks to see my reflection, not my reflection....but the Dark Spyro staring at me with a wicked grin. I rubbed my eyes and blinked a few times and turned back to the mirror only to meet MY reflection.

"Yo James you coming?" I heard Spike call out.

"O-oh yeah, I'll be right there!" I call back as I walk out the room and shut the door behind me and catching up to Spike.

Me and Spike made it to what appears to be a large set of crystallized doors. I stopped and took a deep breath and gave Spike a worried glance. "Are you sure this a good Idea?" I asked him as he shrugged in response.

"I don't know, Twilight was pretty down when she bought you in the guest room, so I think they are just as nervous as you are." Spike explained.

"You should be a guidance counselor ,you know that?"

"Bah!" he said waving a claw, "I'm just a helpful dragon in need. I flash him a smile and I turn back to the huge set off doors and let out a deep breath.'Well, here goes nothing.' I say to myself as I give Spike a nod that I was ready which he simply nodded back. Spike then opened the door and we both walked in, and was greeted with by six familiar mares. We sat their for a good minute staring at each other not knowing what to say.

"Well?" finally said Spike breaking the awkward silence.

"Oh yeah...uh....hi I guess?" I say awkwardly.

"Um...hi?" said Twilight back even more awkward than me.

"Yeah..um...I'm sorry for what happened, i kind of assumed the worst and I....just took action."

"What!? Why are you apologizing?!" I jumped from the sudden outburst from the purple alicorn,

"Because technically I fired the first shot, which makes it my fault that this mess happened in the first place." I explain.

"Well, we wanted to apologize for attacking you as well. We jut wanted the well being for Fluttershy." Twilight said back.

"So....uh...we cool now."

"Yeah I guess so." Twilight then flashes me a smile and I flash one back. When in my mind I was sighing in relief and thanking God almighty for having that conversation go better than I expected. I noticed Fluttershy giving me a warm smile as well, probably because she to was feeling guilty and was relieved when I said everything was ok.

"Now that we have everything situated, what's your name?" asked Twilight snapping me from my thoughts.

"My names James and to tell all of you the truth I'm wasn't always a dragon." I answer.

"What do you mean you weren't always a dragon?" asked(surprisingly) Fluttershy.

"Well I was originally a human from a place called Earth, but when I bought a gem from some creepy old guy in a hat I somehow popped up here as a dragon." I could tell the six mares and little dragon were shocked by this by the looks on their faces.

"Oh I almost forgot! My name is Twilight Sparkle and these are Pinkie, Rainbow, Rarity, Applejack, and you already met Fluttershy and Spike."

"It's nice to meet you all, I hope we can get to know each other on a less.....aggressive approach."

"Don't ya' worry about it sugarcube, as long as ya' don't eat any ponies ya'll alright in m'ah book." said Applejack.

"I do have one question though," started Rainbow Dash raising her hoof in the air like she was in school, "How in the hay did you use magic?! I don't know dragons really well, but I do know they can't do what you did earlier."

The six mares attention was all on me waiting for an answer,.I guess the dragons here don't have magic I thought to myself trying to come up with an explanation to Rainbow's question.

"Well, I'm not just any regular dragon, I'm none as one of a rare line of dragons that can control all the elements known." I respond.

"By elements you mean earth, fire, and water right?" asked Twilight who now was taking notes on a notepad.

"Fire, water, earth, wind, electricity, ice, you name it, but I really prefer fire which I can make a shield or channel it to my horns, I also can change form to but I won't be able to do that until get stronger" Twilight was still writing down notes like crazy as the rest of the ponies were just staring at me slacked jawed.

"That is sooooo coool!" shouted Pinkie, "Do you know what this means! This means that you aren't a meanie pants after all and we can throw 'You are not a meanie and sorry party' after your 'welcome to ponyville party'! I hope you like cake because you are going to see a lot of it like strawberry, banana, orange, vanilla, pecan, chocolate, carrot, apple spice-" Pinkie was then quieted by Rarity who put a hoof in her mouth.

"Sorry about that darling, Pinkie can be...Pinkie at sometimes." said Rarity.

"Nah, it's fine I find it amusing actually." I say with a chuckle, "So what now?"

"Well, first we need to contact Princess Celestia and let her know of what has happened." said Twilight.

"Who's Princess Celestia?"

"She is the co-ruler of Equestria alongside her sister Princess Luna, who controls the moon while she controls the sun." At the moment she said I burst out laughing and fell to the ground with tears in my eyes. Yeah, like they can control the sun and the moon I think to myself as I got and wiped a tear out of my eye only to be met with faces of disapproval until it hit me.

"Oh shit, you're serious?" I ask in disbelief as they nod their heads, "Damn."

"Going back on topic, after we contacted Celestia, we need to introduce you to the rest of Ponyville." I instantly went pale at this. The most scariest thing in my life is spiders...yes I said spiders, shut up. Talking in front of a large crowd of people has to be about number two or three on the my 'top ten things I don't fuck with list'.

"Yeaaah, no." I simply said.

"What?" they all said simultaneously

"I am not, repeat, not going to stand in front of a crowd of a hundred peop- I mean ponies."

"Come on James, don't be silly, their aren't a hundred ponies in Ponyville." said Pinkie putting a foreleg around my shoulder.

"Really?"

"Yeperoonie, there are about a thousand ponies waiting to meet you!"

"Gee, that helped alot." I said sarcastically as Pinkie just kept on smiling.

"Come on! You're a fire breathing dragon! What got you so worked up about just talking to a few ponies?" asked Rainbow Dash

"Yer' not stage fright are ya' James?" asked Applejack with a smug look on her face.

"I wouldn't call stage fright it's more ...uh....me getting nervous around new people." I answer.

"Yep yer' stage fright alright."

"Whatever."

The six mare and little dragon then started laughing, and to tell you the truth so did I. The ponies weren't that bad once you got to know them and everything. Maybe this town isn't all that bad, so meeting them probably will be a breeze and who knows maybe Celestia will give me my own house if I'm nice enough.

"Should we contact Celestia now about James, you know if you feel like it anyways." asked Fluttershy.

"I would think so, Spike take a letter!" said Twilight as Spike took out a piece of paper and quill.

"James, darling?" called out Rarity.

"Yeah?" I answer back.

"What do you plan on saying when you meet the ponies of Ponyville and the princess."

"Well I don't really know exactly, I was honestly just going to wing it.(No pun intended.)"

"Nonsense James if we are going to be friends from now n I need to make sure you make a proper introduction. Fluttershy will you be a dear and help me get James ready?" Fluttershy nods.

"That's really, generous of you, but I think I'm good."

"I won't take no for an answer darling, by the time me and Fluttershy are finished with you, you'll be talking like Pinkie Pie." Rarity with a sly grin states as she(with Fluttershy walking behind) starts to drag me out of the room. I could hear the giggles and laughter from the others behind me, once we got out the throne room I glanced at a random mirror hanging on the wall and guess what I saw? Yep....Dark Spyro staring right back with a wicked smile on his face and giving me wink.

"What are you looking at, James?" asked Fluttershy also looking at the mirror but of course she couldn't see what I saw.

"Uhhh...just admiring the mirror, that's all." I answer.

"A gentlecolt and has a sense of art? You are getting more interesting by the second." commented Rarity making my cheeks warm up.

This is going to be a long day. I think to myself as Rarity and Fluttershy lead me to what look like the entrance (or in this case the exit) of the castle.

Act 1: A New Meeting With The Town and Royalty

View Online

Rarity and Fluttershy led me out the doors of the palace, letting me get the opportunity to observe its appearance. It looked kind of like a castle that was built into a massive tree then had crystals formed around it.How in the hell did I not see this when I flew here? I thought to myself as I turned to Rarity and Fluttershy, ready for them to prepare me to meet the town and this Princess Celestia.

"Is this really necessary?" I ask.

"Of course it is darling, if what you said about being stage fright is correct. Then we must simply to do our best to prepare you to meet the town." answered Rarity.

"Can't I just go back to the house and do it?"

"Absolutely not! A gentlecolt would never do that!" I grumble in defeat as Fluttershy and Rarity giggle in response, “If it makes you feel any better, Fluttershy had the exact same fear you have right now."

"Really now?" I ask causing Fluttershy to his behind her mane.

"Well...um...not any more...kind of.....I'm still shy, but I'm just taking baby steps." she answers in an embarrassed tone.

"That makes me feel a tad bit better, but I'm still not speaking to all those ponies. Not in a million years." This caused Fluttershy and Rarity to sigh in defeat, I could see the disappointment in their eyes. I'm sorry but I just couldn't do it, where I grew up I had what you say, 'A colorful past'. But that's for another time though, for now Rarity and Fluttershy were now giving me pouty faces and their eyes as big as they can be. GAH, DAMN IT!!!! I thought trying to shift my gaze away but couldn't. Why do these ponies have to be so adorable!!!

"Ugh! Fine...what do I have to do?" I say defeated as the two mares squeal in excitement.

"Excellent, how about you tell us how you got stage fright in the first place?" asked Rarity. Now that's a story I rather not tell to anyone, but at the same time they would probably do those damn, cute faces again and just make me tall it anyways, so what's their to lose?

"OK, well it was when I was in high-school...."

"What is the capital of Maine?"

"Augusta."

"Correct!!"

The crowd clapped for the student as he sat back down in his chair with a cocky grin on his face knowing that he had this competition in the bag. For starters my school will have these competitions every year to show how much you learned in school so far, kind of like jeopardy, but only the students with a 3.75 GPA can be a contestant. I hadn't expected them to give us questions this easy though so I should be fine, as long as I don't worry about the time limit............or that I'm one of the two black people on this stage.

"Next up is Mr. James Carter." said the principal taking into his microphone while sitting at a desk with the two vice principals in front of the stage.

"Alright here goes." I say to myself as I get out of my chair and walk up to the microphone on the stage and was greeted with the entire school looking at me. Oh, man I did not expect so many people to be here!

"How are you doing today Mr. Carter?" asked the principal.

"I'm fine." I answered back.

"Perfect, your question for the first round is....how many stars are on the American Flag?"

Have you ever gotten so nervous that you when you someone asks you a question you try to answer it in the smartest way you can but get that shit dead wrong? Well, that's exactly what happened to me.

"Well..um...l-let's see we have 13 colonies and 50 states s-so...uh.....13-50 i-is......47!!!!" I answers as the whole auditorium bursts out in laughter and the principal and vice principals giving me an 'are you serious' face. I can feel my face heating up from embarrassment.

"I'm sorry Mr.Carter but the correct answer is 50. I'm sorry but since you got the answer wrong you are now disqualified from the competition until next year." said one of the vice principals with a disappointed look on her face. I let out a sigh in defeat as I walk back stage with the whole auditorium still laughing.

Making sure no one saw me I quietly went out the back door, to the parking and found my car parked right where I left it. As I started the car I let out a groan knowing that when I get back to school on the Monday I'm never going to hear the end of it.

"Hey James, wait up!!!" A warm smile crept on face at the familiar voice. A girl with ruby red hair and green emerald eyes came up to my car with a worried expression on her face. Sam was one of my bestest friends since elementary, she was always their when I was down. I unlock the doors, letting her sit in the passenger seat. "Hey, I'm sorry that happened back there." she says with a sad expression.

"There is no need to apologize, I'm the one that fucked up." I say solemnly.

"Don't be like that, I'm sure everything will blow over."

"I'm pretty sure it won't, but hey, that's life so I better just roll with it."

"I guess you're right." There was an awkward silence between us as we just sat in the car doing nothing.

"James-"

"Hey monkey!" Me and Sam both sighed in frustration knowing who that voice came from. Flash captain of the lacrosse team with his band of jockeys walking towards the car, who didn't really like me hanging out with Sam. Remember when I said that I had a 'colorful past' well this is why. I grew up in Richmond, Virginia so with me being black I wasn't always treated well. The only friends I had was Sam and my teammates on the football team who were mostly black as well. The lacrosse and football team had always been at each other's throats mostly because of the whole segregation crap.

"I'll try to get him to go away." said Sam stepping out the car.Oh! Did I mention that Flash is Sam's ex-boyfriend? No? Well you know now.

"Hey babe, what are you doing out here all by yourself?" asked Flash with a sly grin.

"First off you and me are done. Second who's says I'm alone?" snapped Sam.

"Oh, you mean that loser you with i that car?"

"How about you lay off Flash? We can do this another time." said Sam as she tried to get back in the car only for Flash to grab her wrist.

"You don't have to go with him. Come with us and I'll rock your world." said Flash with a seductive smile causing Sam to look at him in fear.

"Let go Flash!" Flash however disagreed and and pinned her on the car as she struggled to get free of his grasp. That was it, I had enough with this mother fucker! I jumped out the car causing the whole lacrosse team and Sam to look at me.

"Oh, so he's all big and bad no-" Flash couldn't finish his sentence as I threw a right hook to his face knocking him to the ground and letting go of Sam who quickly rushed over to me and giving me a hug.

"Are you ok?" I ask with concern as I break the embrace.

"Yeah." she answers back.

"Lets get out of here." I say as she nods in agreement. We quickly jump back in the car and drive off, I chuckle a little as I watched Flash in my rear view mirror giving me a certain finger. I pull out my phone as a thought come in to my mind. I noticed Sam looking at me with a confused expression on her face wondering what I was doing.

"Who are you calling?" she asked.

"I was just thinking that we should have some fun tonight." I answer.

"But who are you calling?"

"The crew."

"......and that's why I'm stage fright." I finished as Fluttershy and Rarity just looked at me with wide eyes, probably not knowing what to say. 'Oh shit, I think I broke them!' I think worriedly to myself as I was suddenly tackled by the two in a crushing hug. I instantly blushed from the contact as they nuzzled against my body.

"Oh my Celestia, James! I am so sorry that had to happen to you!" cried Fluttershy.

"I agree darling nopony, should have to put up with that, good thing this Sam character was there." added Rarity as the both of them squeezed me harder.

"*cough*cough*" I coughed awkwardly gaining the two's attention," Hey...guys.....can't...breath...." The two quickly let go of me as I gasped for air making them blush in embarrassment. I had to admit it, the attention felt pretty good, but I don't want die by suffocation from a hug.

"Our apologies, James." said Rarity.

"Don't worry about it, I'm fine and that happened a couple years ago, so I'm over it." I answer.

"You said that you when were a human that you were 'black?" asked Fluttershy.

"Yeah, like ponies we humans come in different sizes, shapes, and colors, but sadly some of us think that one is better than the other just by the way we look." I answer to Fluttershy.

"Oh my! I can't believe that!"

"Yeah but it's better now, yeah there are still some racist assholes out there but not that many."

"So....what happened to Sam?" asked Rarity.

"Well...uh..that's for another time." I answered grimly. I did NOT want those memories to come back again.

"Alright, if it not something you like speaking of we won't push you. Well it seems like you're ready." I gave her a confused look on this.

"What? I didn't even do anything?"

"Actually James you did. You confessed your biggest fear to, not counting Fluttershy, complete strangers."

"Huh, I think I get what you're saying." Fluttershy and Rarity gave me a smile and nodded and went back inside the castle only to be met with the rest of the group and a large white horse with a long horn, wings, a everlasting, flowing rainbow mane and tail, and a golden tiara. I simply gawk at how huge she was compared to me I felt like a freaking ant. I was snapped from my thoughts from a small cough, I turn to see Fluttershy bowing and motioning me to do the same. So I did.

"You may rise my little ponies.......and dragon." said the alabaster horse.

"Uh, hey how's it going-smack-OW! What the Fuck!" I scream as I rub the back of my head and send a glare at Rarity.

"James, you are in the presence of Princess Celestia herself!! Please try to show some class." snapped Rarity.

"You could've just said that instead of giving me a damn concussion!" I hear Princess Celestia give a light chuckle at me and Rarity's bickering.

"It is quite alright Miss Rarity, I like not being addressed formally." Princess Celestia says as I stick out my tongue at rarity who stuck hers out in return, "As you already know I am Princess Celestia, ruler of the sun and co-ruler of Equestria." I don't know why but I get the feeling that she loves to troll people. I didn't say she was, it's just a feeling.

"Well like I was saying before, my name is James and.......huh I have no title, so it's just James." I answer

"You were right Twilight, he is a strange one." she says back.

"You told her about me Twilight?" I ask lifting an eyebrow causing Twilight's gaze to shift from me.

"Well...um...you were gone when she came so.....I just told her what you told us...I'm sorry." she answers nervously.

"Why are you apologizing? I am not mad, I'm actually grateful, that means less talking for me. Man, you ponies say sorry way too much." I say putting emphasis on 'way'. Twilight smiled at me in response and gave a slow nod.

"So, if you already know mostly about me, why are you here?" I ask Celestia.

"Well, from I heard from the elements is that you have no home and were staying with Fluttershy for the time being, am I correct?" she states causing me to nod, "and when the the residents of Ponyville first saw you you they didn't take likely to your arrival and still don't."

"Yeah that mostly sums it up, but that still doesn't answer my question."

"I was thinking of you introducing yourself to all of Ponyville and answering whatever questions they have. Also helping the Elements of Harmony with any one task they need you to do."

'I fucking knew she was a troll.' I think to myself. Wait why do I have to do stuff for them, I don't mind helping somebody help but why does it sound like I'm the one at fault here?

"Ok one question though." I say.

"hmm"

"Why do I have to do stuff for them no offense, but I don't see the point."

"I can see your concerns, but by doing favors for the elements you will slowly be accepted by the ponies as another resident in Ponyville."

"Oh I see it's a trust thing. Alright I'm down." Celestia gave me a confused look.

"It means I agree with you." I simply say

"Perfect, while I go speak to the mayor about our decision about bringing the ponies here, I would like you to stay inside the castle for safety measures." she says a stern expression.

"Alrighty then." I say as I give her a thumbs up as she simply smiles and walks out the front door, 'definitely a troll'.

"How do ya' do that?" asked Applejack snapping me from my thoughts.

"Do what?" I ask back.

"Make ponies smile, ever since we brought ya' to the castle you made everypony so happy."

"Yeah!! I was wondering that too." commented Rainbow Dash, which I simply shrugged my shoulders.

"Eh, it's mostly a gift. Nothing more."

"Well that must be some gift! Oh you should come plan party's with me some time! I love to make ponies smile and you do too so it will be like...double the smiles." exclaimed Pinkie.

"Thanks, we'll have to do that later."

"You seem to know how to work your wings pretty well for someone who only got them a week ago." said Rainbow.

'ABOUT A WEEK AGO' I sing loudly in my head and mentally chuckling, "They're pretty easy to control once you get used to them. Plus I can reach some pretty impressive speed, but you already know that." this caused Rainbow to give a sly grin.

"Is that a challenge I hear?"

"I don't know, what if it is?"

"Then you got another thing coming."

"Pssh, come one I 'll fly circles around you."

"As if, hey to make things interesting how about you and me sees who the fastest after this whole meeting thing. Loser gets to be one's slave for a week."

"Your on!"

"Well, it seems I already have some stuff to complete." Our attention was then turned to the sound of the front doors opening again revealing Celestia once again walking in with a light brown mare with a grey mane and tail. The mare face instantly turned to fear when she saw me, but a nod from Princess Celestia, which I assumed, that she told her that everything was going to be ok.

"H-h-hello, I am Mayor M-M-Mare." the mare greeted nervously holding out her hoof, which I gladly shook in response.

"It's nice to meet you, I'm James and there is no need to be nervous I'm a nice dragon." I reply with a smile.

"I-I'm sorry, it's just...after your struggle with Princess Twilight here I thought you were another conflict Ponyville had to deal with."

"You say that like this kind of thing happens often?"

"Oh, believe me it does, after what happened this is your every other Tuesday." I stare at her in disbelievement.

"This is an average Tuesday for you guys!?' I exclaim as Mayor Mare gives out a light giggle knowing that she wasn't afraid anymore,l 'I guess it is a gift'.

"Yeah, but you'll get used to it, but in the mean time the town is....uh.....eager to meet you."

'Aww shit.'

The group and I were behind what appeared to be a curtain on a stage in the middle of the town. I could hear the mass groups of ponies talking and murmuring amongst themselves. memories from that night in high school start to seep back in to my mind as I start to sweat and hyperventilate and my heart starts to race. I jump from the touch of a hoof on my shoulder, I turn to see Applejack with a worried expression on her face.

"Oh, h-hey Applejack what's up." I ask wiping some sweat off my brow.

"Somethin' the matter, sugarcube?" she asks.

"Just a little nervous, but I'll be fine."

"Oh don't ya' worry, the ponies in these parks are probably the nicest ponies ya'll meet out here in Equestria."

"What if they aren't?"

"Ya'll know how you said we ponies apologize too much?" I nod, "Well. ya' worry to much, how 'bout later ya' come down to the farm to work some of that stress off."

"Sounds good, I always did exercise to get my mind off of things back home."

"JAMES!" I was caught off guard as three small blurs collide into me and tackle me in a bear hug. I chuckle at Sweetie, Applebloom, and Scootaloo hugging me tightly. I hugged them back causing all of us to laugh, Applejack just stood their with a grin on her face. "Hey, girls what have you guys been up too?" I asked.

"We've been in the clubhouse the whole time." answered Applebloom.

"Yeah, we stayed there the most of the day after we left Fluttershy's." added Scootaloo causing the three fillies to look down in shame.

"We're sorry we weren't there when you needed us James."solemnly said Sweetie Belle.

"Hey don't your little heads worry about it, there wasn't much we could do, but we're all good now." I comforted the crusaders with each a ruffle of their manes and causing them to giggle. The crusaders slowly got off of me letting me get back to my feet as Mayor mare approached me.

"Are you ready Mr.James?" she says with a smile.

"Now and always."

"Great! Just get ready when I call you on the stage." I nod as she walks out the curtain to the stage, I feel a small tap on my talon, I look down and see Sweetie Belle looking at me with a embraasses expression on her face.

"What's wrong, Sweetie?" I ask.

"Well, I was wondering....um..." her cheeks were now a bright red as she pawed at the floor looking down. I tilted my head in confusion wondering what she was trying to say.

"What is it? It's ok you can tell me."

"I was wondering...um..if I could ride your back.....when you go on stage." her face was now as red as a tomato now. Why is she so embarrassed? I don't mind if she wants a little ride, plus it'll score me some points in earning these ponies trust. I look back at her and is surprised by her giving me the sad puppy dog eyes. 'Darn these cute ponies!'.

"Alright hop on." I say stooping down.

"Really?" she asks with a shocked expression.

"Yeah, I don't mind." she squeals in delight as she climbs on my neck and positions her small body until she is sitting on my back, "Hey Rarity!" I call out gaining Rarity's attention.

"Yes, darling?"

"You don't mind Sweetie Belle riding my back do you?"

"Not at all dear as long as you bathe daily I'm fine with it."

"Oooookay?" I say in confusion. 'What the hell does she mean bathe twice daily?'

"And now I give you the Elements of Harmony and James!" Mine and Sweetie's attention was caught by the sound of Celestia's voice. I let out a deepsigh and opened the curtain with Sweetie bell riding on my back. As I stepped on the stage I noticed the Princess, Mayor Mare, Twilight ,Pinkie, Fluttershy, Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Applebloom, and Scootaloo waiting for me on the stage. I then focused on the crowd of ponies staring at me with mixed expressions on their faces and whispers amongst them like-

"What is that dragon doing here?"

"Why does he have that little filly on his back?"

"Is it a trick?"

"Maybe he isn't as bad as we thought?"

"Is he single?"

Where did that one come from? I took a glance at Celestia and gave a pleading look, who only motioned me to go up to the microphone, I felt Sweetie squeeze around my neck in a comforting motion, and nuzzling the side of my face. I gave a little smile and walked towards the mic tapping it causing a squeak to go through the speakers making everyone cover their ears.

"Sorry about that," I apologize in the microphone, "So...uh...my names is james, but I'm sure you already knew that, heh."

Awkward silence.

"Yeah..um....okay, I'm going to give it to you guys straight, I'm not good to talking to a new crowd of ponies. Hell, I'm down right terrified! I know we some of you....well all of you think that I'm going to eat your children after what happened today, and I understand that but i'm a really nice guy- dragon once you get to know me. I'm am accepting the consequences for the damages I have caused and once again I am sorry and hope for your forgiveness."

More awkward silence. I let out a sad sigh and turned to leave until-

A clap or was it a stomp? Whatever it's a stomp.

Then another stomp.

then another.

Now the entire crowd was cheering.

I am shocked beyond belief. They actually trust me that easy? I thought I was going to have to bring in the 'I Have A Dream Speech' to bring the guilt trip but I guess I don't. I give a wave and looked at Celestia and the others with a look that said 'Can I leave now' which they smiled in confirmation.'Oh thank God!'

"Hey Sweetie?" I ask Sweetie Belle.

"Yeah?"

"I need to go to Fluttershy's to get something real quick."

"Oh okay?"

"Good! Oh, then hold on tight."

Before she could ask I spread my wings and shoot up in the air and flying off to Fluttershy's cottage with Sweetie Belle clinging to me tightly.

Meanwhile in James' head, a familiar dark dragon sat down in the middle of the void of emptiness pondering at the events that had just taken place.

"It seems that James, had made a few friends. Perfect!" smirked Dark Spyro, which means the more he cares about them the stronger I get. And the the stronger I get the more soon I get to escape this dreadful prison." The dark copy of James then lifted his claw and examined it as it engulfed in a purple flame. "And when I do you are the first on my hit-list."

Act 1: A Bunch of New Friends

View Online

I touched down at Fluttershy's house with Sweetie Belle hanging on to me like a petrified cat. She thens quickly unwraps her forehooves from around my neck and starts kissing the ground. I laugh in throat a bit at the display. "Sorry, about that Sweetie, I didn't go too fast did I?" I ask with a chuckle causing her to shoot a cute glare my way.

"You went fast enough!" she yells stomping a hoof in the ground.

"Alright, alright, I said I was sorry." I say putting my talons up in the air.

I opened the door to Fluttershy's cottage with Sweetie following in pursuit. Right when we walked in though I instantly ran into Angel with his arms crossed and thumping his foot on the ground. 'If I didn't know better, I would say Angel is related to Thumper from Bambi.' I thought as I attempted to give Angel a fist bump only for him to smack it out the way.

"What's wrong little dude?" I ask tilting my head in confusion.

Angel then pointed to the right, I followed where he was pointing at and found that the kitchen was literally trashed from my escape attempt earlier. "Oh yeah, almost forgot about that." I apologize to the white bunny rubbing the back of my head in embarrassment, "I'll clean that when I get back, but i got to grab something first and go back to Flutters and the rest okay?" Angel just simply rolled his eyes and hopped off. 'Sometimes that bunny be living in thug life.' I thought as I made my way over to the couch.

"What are you looking for?" asked Sweetie Belle.

"This." I simply say as I pulled out the red crystal I came here with, from under the couch, making her look at it in wonder.

"What do you need that for?"

"I was going to ask Celestia if she could put this in a safe place."

"Why?"

"Don't know actually, just got that feeling ya' know?"I say as I look down at my reflection on the crystal(Which I instantly regretted) and saw Dark Spyro banging from the inside of the crystal, even though it was mute I could tell he was screaming some 'not so nice' words.'So that's whats this crystal for! It's some kind of prison for my evil self.'

"James? Are you alright?" asked Sweetie with a worried expression on her face. I didn't even notice that I was staring at the crystal for a couple of minutes.

"Oh! Sorry, I was lost in thought for a second, come on the others are probably waiting for us." Sweetie nods in agreement as we walked out the cottage with the crystal tucked under my wing. Deciding not to fly again because Sweetie being a little shaken up from our flight earlier we decided to walk back(By 'we' I mean me as she rode my back). That's when I saw pony at Fluttershy's mailbox,(obviously one of the mailmen or is it mail ponies? I don't know.) she was a grey mare with a blond mane and tail, with bubbles as her cutie mark. Her back was facing us so I didn't know what her face looked like though.

"Hey Sweetie? Who's that?" I ask.

"That's the mailmare Derpy! She delivers the mail in Ponyville." she answers.

"Really now?", I say with a sarcastic chuckle, "I'm going to say hi." With that said me and Sweetie walked up to the mailmare known as Derpy.

"Hey, excuse me miss." I say gaining the mares attention. I was instantly caught off guard as the mare turned around and whacked me with the package she had in her mouth. I goaned in pain as I put my talon on my now throbbing cheek.

"Oh, sorry about that, I didn't hurt you did I?" Derpy asked.

"No, no, no, I'm fine it's just-OH SHIT!!!!" I scream as I was surprised at how the mare's eyes were positioned.(Hey guys, for starters James was just surprised not scared, for those who think that I was making fun of Derpy, WHICH I'M NOT!!!)

"What?"

"Oh...um....I thought I saw a bee." 'Dumbass!'

"I see what you mean, I hate those things, my name is Derpy by the way!" Derpy said in a cheerful voice holding out her hoof which I gladly shook.

"Hi Derpy I'm James, so you deliver the mail here?"

"Yep! The best there is! One pony even told me to leave town and deliver it in Canterlot!" 'Awww, i see what's going on.'

"That's pretty impressive. Wait? Weren't you at the meeting today?"

"Oh no, I had to deliver these packages so I didn't have any time." I let out a mental sigh in relief at that.

"That's too bad, you have some pretty eyes by the way."

"Really?!" Derpy asks in shock "You're not creeped out or making fun of them?"

"Why would I be? I think they're pretty cool the way they are, plus I don't judge people on how they look." I could see a faint blush on her cheeks, I got to admit though this mare was pretty cute though. She is just so innocent and cheerful you know, that's when I noticed her cutie mark was an image as bubbles.

"Hey Derpy you like bubbles right?" I ask.

"Oh yes I do! There like my second most favoritest things in the world!" she exclaims jumping up and down.

"Then you're going to love this." with that said I opened my mouth and let out a stream of bubbles, Derpy and Sweetie Belle watched in awe as I did this and started to pop the bubbles giggling from joy.

"WOW!!!! THIS IS AMAZING!!!!" screamed Derpy popping every bubble she could find. After all the bubbles were popped she gave me an unexpected hug I blushed a little from the sudden contact."Thank you for the bubbles" she said with a smile."Oh I have something for you!" she then reached around in one of the bags she had strapped on her back and pulled out...

"Oh my GOD!!!!!! Is that a banana nut muffin!!!!" I scream snatching the muffin from her grasp and gobbling it down(Don't judge me. Those kind of muffins are the shit!). Until I noticed something, "Hey Derpy?"

"Yes?"

"You know I'm a dragon, right?"

"Yep!"

"And you know not that much about me, right?"

"Yep!"

"Then why are you being so nice to me? When I first came here the ponies looked like they were about to soil themselves."

"Because I like you silly!" I blushed a little at this, "I gotta go drop off the rest of these packages, so if you want you can visit me at my house."

"That sounds great Derpy, I'll see ya' later then."

"Okay bye!!" she cheers before flying off towards Ponyville. I watched her go and couldn't help but smile at the mare as she left, I totally forgot the Sweetie Belle was on my back as she gave one of my horns a playful tug and started to sing a song that made me blush in embarrassment.

"James and derpy sitting in a tree,

K-I-S-S-I-N-G!!!!

First comes love,

Then comes marr-"

"Okay, you little rascal," I interrupt while shaking lightly like a dog making her giggle, "let's get back to others."

After about thirty minutes we made it back into town and surprisingly the ponies that we walked by actually greeted us with a smile or a wave. I was expecting them to give it a couple of days, but not for an hour. Putting the thought behind I noticed that we were approaching the others who waved me and Sweetie Belle over to them. I noticed that a stallion I didn't know was with them. He was a unicorn with blue irises and blue rimmed glasses. His mane and tail are a slightly blond, with a turquoise coat and a sword getting hit by lightning as a cutie mark.

"Hiya Jamesy!! Where did you go?" asked Pinkie clearly excited of my return.

"I had to go back to Fluttershy's for something, and who's this?" I asked motioning to the unicorn stallion that was with them.

"James this is Jack Hunt, he is part of my royal guard and Luna's night guard. He is a combat unicorn and is good with swords and can enchant his weapons and armor with his lightning magic." explained Celestia.

"Well, it's nice to meet you soldier Hunt." I say giving a playful salute.

"Oh, so we have a funny guy?" started Jack Hunt, "I like him already, tell me about yourself dragon?"

"Well, for starters the name's James and I'm a dragon that can use elemental magic." this caused Jack's eyes to widen.

"Really?! A dragon doing magic?! How is that possible?! What elements do you use?"

"Well, I can control and breathe fire, ice, earth, water, air, lightning, bubbles- oh and I can also transform into more powerful forms and stop time, but I have to get stronger to unlock those last two."

"Wow that's pretty impressive I've had my share of lightning based magic, it's real shocking is it." he says with a grin, I had to take a moment at what I just heard. That was one of the worst puns I heard in my life.

"Yeah...uh...shocking."

"Why doesn't anyone like my jokes, but me? Not even my wife and daughter likes my jokes."

"You have a family?"

"Sure do I love them with all my heart, and will destroy anyone who tries to hurts them!!." his expression was serious for a second as his eyes flashed a blood red. Hey guys remind me not to piss this guy off, "Do you have a love life dra- I mean James?"

"No, I'm single, but it's fine."

"But does it get lonely once in a while?"

"Yeah, but I don't think I'm ready for a relationship."

"Well you already have six beautiful mares to choose from, plus their the Elements of Harmony no less!" I blush at the compliment as he gives out a chuckle.

"Well, all I'm saying is that you better get one quick before the storm comes." Now I was confused.

"What do you mean?"

"You'll see."

Before the conversation could go further Celestia stepped in with a serious expression on her face but could tell that her face was recovering from a blush. I also noticed the six mares faces still red as tomatoes as well. "Excuse me to interrupt your conversation James, but what were you getting at Fluttershy's house?"

"Oh yeah!" I reached under my wing a pulled out the red crystal, "I was wondering if you could keep this in a safe place and make sure it never cracks or breaks." Celestia's eyes hardened a bit, and I knew that look. I knew she had to deal with these kinds of things before and that she had to have some magical place to put them.

"Why is that?"

"Let's just say their is something inside their that shouldn't come out." I say as Celestia nodded in understanding.

"Don't worry James I'll have my guards watch it twenty-four seven four it's protection." she said in a stern voice, "But I'm afraid me and Jack Hunt must return to the castle for our duties. Oh, and James ,the mayor, The Elements of Harmony and I have arranged you a home to in Ponyville already stocked with furniture and food."

"Wow...uh..thanks. That's pretty generous of you." I thanked.

"You are very welcome, James."

"Don't forget what I said!" yelled Jack Hunt as Celestia rolled her eyes and the two disappearing in a flash of light.

I glanced at the mane six who all averted their gaze from me, probably still embarrassed from me and Jack's conversation. Fluttershy was hiding behind her mane, Applejack was covering her face with her stetson hat, Rainbow was looking down pawing the ground, Rarity was closing her eyes looking away, Twilight was rubbing her foreleg looking down, and Pinkie....I don't know what the hell Pinkie was doing. I then glanced at the crusaders who were giggling at the six mares reaction.

Twilight was the first to have the courage to talk,"Ahem...W-well, James we'll show your home so you can get settled in."

"If ya' don't mind Twilight me and Applebloom are gonna have ta' head home, Celestia starting to make the sunset." said Applejack.

"Come on Sweetie Belle, we should get going as well I have a order I have to fill in by tomorrow afternoon." added Rarity.

"I'll take you home Scoots, I guess I'll see you guys tomorrow."

"I have to get ready for James' welcome to Ponyville party." exclaimed Pinkie.

"And I have to go check on the animals and make sure their okay, since I've been gone most of the day...um...James if you want...you could stay one more night at my place." whispered Fluttershy.

"That's ok, Flutters. I think I'll be fine."

"Oh,okay." with that said the five mares and three fillies said their farewells and to Twilight and I and we went our separate ways for the evening.

Twilight walked James through the town until we came up to a wooden building. It was a decent looking cream colored house, with a nice roof covered in hay, chimney, blue door, windows, with decorated orange seams covering the house.

"Wow, wasn't expecting a house like this." James said in amazement.

"Well, you can thank Rarity for that she was the one who picked it." said Twilight.

"I'm gonna have to."

"Follow me I'll show you around inside." James followed Twilight inside the house and it seemed pretty cozy, it had a kitchen, living room, dining room, basement, stairs, two bathrooms(one upstairs, one downstairs), two bedrooms(One master, one guest room),hallway closet, and the attic. James and twilight then walked out the front door and stood in front of the house.

"So, how do you like it?" asked Twilight.

"This is perfect! All I really have to do is find a job, but other than that I like it." answered James.

"Great! You know if you want...I was wondering if you could help me out tomorrow?"

"Sure, what is it?"

"Just re-shelving some books in the library."

"Seems legit, hey thanks for everything you and the girls done for me."

Twilight blushed, "Oh don't, I didn't think I did anything."

James then put a talon on her shoulder making her shiver from the touch, "Come one Fluttershy gave me a place to stay for the time being, and eventhough I attacked you girls. You still helped me out by giving me a place to stay."

"It's quite alright James, I'm sure you would have done the same thing."

"I guess you're right, that's what friends are for" said James putting his claw on his chin, "I guess I'll see you tomorrow?"

"Yep, just meet me by the castle."

"Alright, I guess this is goodbye then?"

"Yep."

"Bye."

"Bye"

"..."

"Twilight?"

"Yes?"

"You can leave now."

"Oh right sorry." with that said Twilight with a blush and quickly walked away from James toward her castle while the purple dragon, who shrugged his shoulders, and let out a sigh of relief and went back in his house ready to crash on his bed. Twilight was walking down the road with conflicting thoughts in her head. 'What got me so worked up around him?' she thought, 'He is interesting I'll give him that. A dragon that can control the elements let alone the time control and changing into stronger forms. Ugh!! I'll just deal with this in the morning.'

Meanwhile two small dragon shaped figures observed the whole conversation from high in the clouds. One was thin with green scales and metallic armor covering his face, wings, and the tip of his tail. While the other had a feminine look to her with small grey horns dark purple scales, spiked bracelets around her wrists and ankles, and a spiked collar.

Cynder and Drobot watched as the purple alicorn left the house. "Are you sure that's him?" she asked.

Drobot nodded, "My scanners, detect that he is the one. Should we retrieve him now?"

"No, not yet. The ponies have been nice to him so far."

"And when they turn on him?"

"Thats when we make our move."

"We should report our findings to Ignitus back in Thedas."

"Indeed." with that said the two small dragons flew off disappearing into the clouds.

There stood the red crystal inside an enchanted glass case beside the thrones of Princess Celestia and Luna for safe keeping and guarded the night guard. The crystal then started to glow an eerie red, and started to vibrate in it's container, startling the two bat ponies as they both raised their spears at the glass container.

The crystal stopped vibrating.

Then it stopped glowing.

Everything was still once again, the bat ponies lowered their spears, and went back at attention. While the red crystal stood still in it's enchanted glass case...........

With a small crack on it's surface.

Act 1: A New Day With Twilight

View Online

I couldn't believe it when I woke up. I actually had a GOOD night sleep, no nightmares, no twisting and turning, nothing! I slept like a baby after drinking warm milk. I jumped out my new bed and headed to the bathroom and looked into the mirror........no Dark Spyro? Is it possible that I might have a day where everything will be perfect for once. Smiling I grabbed the toothbrush and started to brush my teeth, it was nice of the girls to move my stuff from Fluttershy's to here.

After brushing my white canines, I went down the stairs and headed for the kitchen. I got to admit though it was pretty weird having a house by myself, before I came here I was roommates with my friends, but with me being alone, it's.....quiet, almost peaceful. Putting the thoughts behind me I opened the fridge to see that Celestia was not kidding when she said she gave me food. My fridge was stocked head to toe, like I was getting ready for the apocalypse or something.

"THHHHHHAAAANNNNKKK YYYOOOOOUUUU CELESTIA!!!!!" I scream out in happiness grabbing the packaged eggs and and milk, "Some scrambled eggs sounds good." I cracked about three of the eggs and tossed them in a skillet, I was about to turn on the stove until a thought entered my brain. I help the skillet with the yolk up in the air and and blew a small wave of orange fire under the pan for about five minutes. Feeling satisfied I brought the pan down saw that my eggs were perfectly cooked.

I put the eggs on my plate and poured me a glass of milk and began to chow down. I was munching happily as I took a glance at the clock on the wall...which said 11:45 am........was I supposed to be somewhere? Then it hit me, 'I knew today wasn't going to be perfect!' I thought to myself as I literally flew off the chair and out the door quickly closing and locking it.

"Twilight's going to kill me!" I say nervously as I spread my wings and sped off towards the castle. I noticed Pinkie and Rainbow dash walking and they noticed me as well and started waving, I let out a sigh and landed in front of them.

"Hiya James!" said Pinkie with her usual smile.

"What's up James? What's the rush?" asked Rainbow.

"I gotta get to Twilight's to help her organize her library," I say in a hurry until I noticed that they had....saddle bags? I think that's what their called."You guys going on a trip or something?"

"Kind of...we have to go to the griffon kingdom for some thing." she says with a slight venom in her voice.

"You say that like it's a bad thing?"

"Because it is! Griffons are downright jerks!"

"I'm sure not all of them are Dashie." said Pinkie.

"Trust me they are."

"Well, it seems we're going to have to do that 'Welcome to Ponyville Party' later." solemnly said Pinkie.

"Nah, don't worry it's fine, but I was looking forward to some cake though. See ya' guy later." We said our goodbyes as we went our separate ways.......what was I doing again?

"OH SHIT, TWILIGHT!" With that said I spread my wings and shot off towards the castle.

"Thanks for coming on such short notice." said Twilight as an unicorn stallion reorganized her books while she waited on a certain purple drake.

"No problem, Princess," he said back, "Good thing you caught me before I went on vacation."

"Yeah, you work at the Canterlot Library correct?"

"Yep, pretty fun job too."

"Well, thanks ag-"

CRASH!!!!!!

Twilight and the unicorn jumped as a certain purple drake came crashing through the window and colliding with one of the bookshelves causing an avalanche of book to topple on top of him.

'Ow! That hurt.' I groaned as I popped my head out of the pile of books and was met with the glare from Twilight and an unicorn i have never met before. The unicorn was a cyan blue with a darker blue mane and green highlights, and a book with a worm in it as a cutie mark."H-Hey Twilight, wonderful weather we're having." I say with an innocent smile as I climb out the pile of books.

"James, would you mind explaining why your four hours, twenty-three minutes, and forty-seven seconds late!" exclaimed Twilight making me flinch from the outburst.

"You counted?"

"No! Well, yes, but that's besides the point where were you!?"

"Sorry Twilight, I overslept and then I got distracted." Twilight let out a sigh in annoyance.

"Well I can't blame you, you did have a tough day yesterday, so I'll let it slide this time."

"Thanks, by the way who's this?" I asked motioning toward the unknown stallion who was now putting Twilight's books back on the shelves.

"Oh, that's Bookworm, he works at the Canterlot Library. When you were running late I had Spike send a letter."

"I thought Spike could only send letters to Celestia?"

"Oh, no no no, he can send them to anyone he wishes as long as he thinks about the pony he sends it to."

"That's pretty impressive, how's it going?" I call out to bookworm as his horn glowed a darkish green as the books levitated themselves back on the shelves.

"Hello, so you're the dragon everypony is talking about?" he asked.

"Yeah, the name's James by the way."

"My apologies, as you know my name is Bookworm and I work at the royal library in Canterlot enchanting books for their majesties."

"Wait? How did you get down here so fast, if you live up on a mountain?!"

"I have a part time here in Ponyville at the local comic store, I was just there when Princess Twilight called."

"Oh, well that makes sense."

"Well, it seems like my work is done, Oh! Before I forget," his horn started to glow a dark green aura as a comic book materialized out of nowhere and was then levitated to Twilight, "Give this to my favorite customer will you?"

"Of course bookworm, Spike would be very happy." said Twilight with a smile. Bookworm said his goodbyes and left the room. I just stood their not knowing what to do. 'Well, if that Bookworm character already fixed up the library what am I still doing here for?' I thought to myself as I was about to turn to leave.

"James?" asked Twilight.

'Damnit'"Yeah?" I answer.

"Since Bookworm already fixed up the library I was wondering if I could interview you." I noticed the nervousness in her voice. I did owe her for being late, but I really wanted to relax today today. Fuck it. I'll be fine for an half hour.

(six hours later)

'OH..........MY............JESUS! HOW MANY QUESTIONS DOES SHE HAVE!!!!'

I banged my head on the desk in front of me...AGAIN! Trying to knock myself out so I could get out of this situation I got myself in. Twilight has been asking almost everything about where I came from. Even though she already knows what a human looks like.....I think. Can human's skin color be blue? Who cares, the point is I'm metaphorically being held hostage and being pestered with a whole bunch of questions. I even saw Spike on a few occasions giving me a smug grin. Obviously enjoying my torture.

"Ok James, next question." started Twilight as I felt my eyes water up. 'I'm never getting out of here.', "Who is this 'God' and 'Jesus'?"

She is really asking me this?

"Well..urm.." I started not knowing what to say, "God is a....well he is God....and um.......he created everything big and small......and can pretty much do anything and decides if you go to Heaven or Hell." Yeah not my best description.

"What is Heaven and Hell?"

"Well, when something dies they face judgement. If you are good then you go up to Heaven and live the best life ever, but if you've been bad you go down to Hell and well burn for all eternity." Twilight gulped at my statement.

"And what about Jesus?"

"Oh! He's the one who showed us who God was and also is his son."

"Soooo, there part of a form of religion."

"Yep."

"What's it called?"

"Well, there are different versions of it but the most common one is Christianity, which I am."

"Fascinating!"

"What kind of religion do ponies have?"

"Oh we have Cestianity and Lunianity." I couldn't believe what she just said.

'WHAT THE EVERLOVING LOVING FUCK. THESE PONIES ARE GOING TO HELL, SAME AS THE PRINCESSES.'

"Well...um...I don't judge people on what they believe in, but that is interesting."

"One more question."

'Thank God!!!!'

"Shoot."

"If you ever find a way back to your world, would you go back or stay here." I noticed the gleam of hope in her eyes. Out of all the questions this one got to me the most. It may be a long time since I ACTUALLY hung out with a girl, but I still know what to say. "Um...I don't know yet...I just got here like a week ago, so it all depends, I'm sorry."

"N-no it's fine," she stuttered quickly, "I-I was just wondering." There was an awkward silence between us.

"Well, Twilight it's starting to get late and I haven't eaten dinner(or lunch) yet, so I'll catch ya' later?" I say breaking the silence.

"Y-yeah, I'll see you tomorrow." she says as I spread my wings and flew out the window back to my house.

Act 1: A New Day With Fluttershy

View Online

I woke up early this morning so I wouldn't have to repeat the incident that happened yesterday with Twilight. I was now walking along the path to Fluttershy's to see she how she was doing and if she needed any help. I was the least I could do, plus out of the six I feel more comfortable with. Maybe it's just because I knew her longer than the others......and she didn't try to kill me when we first met.

I put the thoughts behind me as I made it to Fluttershy's cottage and was about to knock on the door, but stopped when I heard a familiar tone coming from the back. I let out a smile knowing that tone anywhere and walked around the cottage to find Fluttershy tending her chickens in the back. To tell you guys the truth I do miss staying here with her, but I was just keeping up space and I had to leave sometime.

"Hey Flutters!" I call out making her give out an 'eep'.

"Oh, hi James what are you doing here?" she asked.

"What? I can't visit a friend?" I say with a chuckle, "I'm just playin'. I came to see if you needed help with anything."

"Well...um....you could, feed Little Dave and his friends their breakfast. "

"Cool, now where's the little rascal at?"

"Oh I'll show you." Fluttershy walked me inside the cottage and showed me to the the corner of the living room where a big glass container was with a whole bunch of cobwebs in it. I gave her a confused look, where is he? Did the little furry guy leave without Fluttershy noticing...wait a minute......this was not here the last time I was here.

"Hey, Fluttershy this wasn't here when I was staying here was it?" I ask.

"Oh no, I just found the little furry guy and his family yesterday."

"Ok....but why are there cobwebs?"

"How else are tarantulas supposed to live?" I felt my heart drop to my stomach. Did she just say...? No she couldn't have...maybe I'm just tired. I'm going to be honest with you guys I am absolutely terrified of spiders. I don't care if you say some are harmless, if I see one I am either smashing or running.....mostly the second option.

"I'm sorry Flutters, for a moment I thought you said tarantulas."

"I did."

No.

"O-okay, and you s-said t-tarantulas......as in plural/"

"Yep."

No. No. No.

"W-where are t-they?"

"Oh they like to wonder sometimes."

FUCK THAT!!!!

Without thinking I let out a manly scream and jumped and clung on the ceiling still screaming.

(For those who want to know what the scream sounds like.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pu0H4UD-1sQ

"James! What's wrong?!" asked Fluttershy in concern.

"Nothings wrong." I lied.

"James...you screamed and jumped on the ceiling."

"No really, I'm good." I say while gliding down to the floor, but unfortunately Fluttershy didn't believe as she just gave me an irritated look.

"Ugh...fine, well the t-thing is....I'm a-afraid of......"

"Afraid of what?"

"S-spiders." I say softly as I do the best imitation if Fluttershy by getting close the the ground as possible and putting my wings over my face like I was in a cocoon of shame. I then felt something soft and warm stroke my back I moved my wings from my eyes and saw Fluttershy lying down close beside me with her wing stroking my back in a comforting manner. I looked to see her smiling at me.

"Its ok James, tarantulas are quite harmless."

"That's what you say now, but then you find them in your bed trying to eat your face off."

"Come on James, that's just a story parents tell their foals when they misbehave."

"I-I don't know." I heard Fluttershy let out sigh and then a light giggle as she nuzzled up close to me and my cheeks start to warm up. Our attention was then turned to a small cough, we looked up to see Angel with his arms crossed and thumping his foot with a smug grin. Me and Fluttershy quickly got up and put a little distance as we both blushed in embarrassment. "W-what is it Angel?" stuttered Flutters as Angel pointed behind him showing a GROUP of tarantulas happily eating their breakfast, "Oh so..um...a-already fed them?" she asked again as Angel nodded.

With speeds that could impress Rainbow Dash I quickly flew out of the cottage and started to hyperventilate as I leaned against the mailbox. I heard Fluttershy gallop from behind, probably worried that I saw one of my worst fears in the same room as I was. "James are you alright?" asked Fluttershy putting a hoof on my shoulder.

"I-I'm good, I just need a second."

I finally caught my breath, and let out a sigh of relief...until I noticed something by the Everfree Forest. "Hey Fluttershy do you let your animals go in the forest?"

"Oh Celestia no, not where they can get hurt."

"Well dog just went in." This made Fluttershy gasp and now she was hyperventilating, I shook her a bit snapping her out of her state and looked in to her teal orbs as they stared back in to my violet orbs. "Flutters calm down I'll go get him."

"B-but the last time you w-were in there, y-you a-almost di-" I put a claw over her mouth cutting her off.

"I'll be fine, don't worry." I saw with a smile. I was caught off guard as she wrapped her fore hooves around me pulling me in a tight embrace.

"Please come back, safe." I give a nod and I fly off toward the dark forest.

It should not take a hour and a half to find this dog. I am serious! It is taking me this long to find him. I can't go back to Fluttershy then she'll be devastated. I'm never going to-

BARK! BARK!

I stand corrected, as I saw what looked like a small white shepherd barking at a cave.

'Ok, this is going to be easy all I have to do is grab him and we'll be on our wa-'.

ROAAAAAAAARRRR!!!

Of fucking course.

I then noticed a pack of ,what I was told by Fluttershy when I first got here, manticores surrounding the dog trapping him and making sure that it didn't have any way of escaping. The stupid things I do, I could've just ignored the stupid dog as it went in the damn forest! But nooooo, I had to play the nice guy. I watched as the shepherd snarled at the smallest manticore and started snapping at it only to get knocked away and into the trunk of a tree as it let out a yelp in pain.

Ok that's it!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8ymuoSly_Q

The manticore raised its paw ready to put the white shepherd out of it's misery only for a purple blur to ram in to him. The manticore was dazed for a bit but instantly recovered and glared at it's attacker. James let out a growl and stood in front of the german which looked like only a puppy. "Alright, Simba, how about you and your pride back off before I make you." James threatens as the manticores only roar in response and advance on the two.

The closest manticore pounced first only to run into the James' hard horns and was sent flying back. Two other manticores lunged at him, James was able to dodge one but was instantly tackled by the other. Using his strength he kicked off his attacker before he could bite his head off his shoulders. He then let out a ball of fire that hit one of the manticores in the face burning it's mane and causing it to fall back clutching it's face in pain.

James then charged the smallest and collided with it's chest causing its rib cage to crack. It roared in pain and swiped him away causing James to tumble across the ground. Before he could recover the biggest locked him in it's jaws and shook him like a rag doll. If it weren't for iJames' tough scales he would be kitty chow right now. The manticore then slammed James on the ground and attempted to step on him. James rolled out the way and threw up a flaming shield as the manticore swiped burning it's claws off of it's fury fingers.

James then took the opportunity and grabbed its neck in his jaws and slammed him on the grassy floor and snapped his neck in one turn of his head. James looked at the rest of the pack of manticores to see that the final four were surrounding him and glaring at him for killing their comrades. All four jumped at the purple drake.

Thinking fast James' slammed his talons in the ground causing four pillars made of dirt and rock to rise out of the ground causing the manticores to run straight into them causing one of them to get knocked out and dazing the other three.

"Now that's what I'm talking about." said James as he rammed into one of the pillars causing it to be lodged out the ground and fly in to the second manticore smashing it in a pool of blood and broken bones. The final two let out a roar at James as he gave them one back and shot his bubble breathe at the two manticores confusing them. He then spread his wings and took to the air and dive bombed one of them breaking it's spinal cord making it collapse to the ground.

James then sent a glare at the final manticore, and finally getting the message ran back into it's cave. James let out a sigh and limped over to the white shepherd puppy that came out of the bushes.

"Hey boy," I managed to get out holding out my claw as the shepherd sniffed it as the it sniffed it and started to lick my face, "Alright, alright you're welcome." I got a closer look and noticed that this dog looked like the one from that movie 'Bolt' had the mark on it's side and everything.

"Come on let's get back to Fluttershy." I say to the Bolt look-a-like.

'Bark' he barked in agreement as we made our way through the forest. I then noticed a piece of one of the manticores stingers in my arm.

'Well, shit.'

Me and the dog exited the forest, I felt the venom from the stinger starting to run it's course so I had to use the dog's weight as support so I wouldn't fall out. I noticed Fluttershy still waiting by the mailbox when I left with red teary eyes. 'Aw man..now I feel like a dick.' I thought as the dog barked getting Fluttershy's attention as she gasped in horror and flew towards us.

"Oh my goodness! What happened." asked Fluttershy. I could only groan in response and let out a weak smile, the dog then whined and motioned toward the manticore stinger in my arm. With strength I didn't know she had me she plopped me on her back and ran towards the house and plopped me on the couch and ran off to get the first aid kit to treat my wound. As I lay there the dog put it's head on the couch and started licking my paw with a guilty expression on it's face. "Don't worry, buddy I'll be fine." I say to the dog as Fluttershy came back with some alcohol and pads.

She quickly pulled out the stinger, put the alcohol on the pad, and placed it on my wound making me cringe a little only for me to relax a bit. She wrapped up my arm and gave me a sad smile and which made me know I was going to be okay.

"Hey Flutters, I'm sorry for making you worry about me." I say.

"I-It's fine James, really, just be more careful next time, alright," she answered as she gives me a hug on the couch, "I don't now what I'll do if I lost you."

"Oh...um...thanks Flutters." I noticed the dog who was giving me sad look, "Hey Flutters?"

"Yes?"

"Ponies sometimes come here to adopt pets right?"

"Yes, I'm open for all ponies who needs a little company in their life."

"Well, I was wondering if this guy would come home to me." I say as Fluttershy looked at me in shock as the white shepherd jumped on me and started licking my face happily.

"Y-you really want to adopt him?"

"Sure, plus it does get kind of lonely at my place so he'll make the company." Fluttershy squeals in excitement and gives me another hug.

"I'm so excited for you! What are you going to name him?"

"I was thinking about Bolt." I say as the dog(I mean Bolt) barked in agreement.

"I think that suits him fine. Oh, speaking of having guests I have to meet somepony at the train station, she's going to be staying with me."

"Another one? Wow, keep this up and you might want to start a hotel Flutters," this caused her to let out a light giggle.

"You want to came?" she asked as I hopped off the couch and opened the door and bowing like one of those rich butlers.

"Of course, my lady." I say in a preppy tone causing her to giggle and walk out the door.

"Let's go Bolt!" I call out who barked in excitement and ran out the door following Fluttershy.

We waited at the train station for about thirty minutes until I finally heard it's whistle signaling us of it's arrival. The train hissed as it came into a halt and ponies poured out of it gingerly, amongst this pony was a deer, a doe to be exact. I watched as she spotted us and walked over to us with a happy grin on her face.

"Hi, are you Fluttershy?" she asked.

"Hello to you too Evelyn, it's a pleasure to meet you." answered Fluttershy, "and this is my good friend James and his new pet Bolt. James, Bolt this is Evelyn Hopskip. She is a fourteen year old princess from the Deer Kingdom and Princess Celestia assigned me herself to give her refuge. "

"Sup."

"BARK!"

"I never knew there was another dragon here in Ponyville?" said Evelyn.

"Yeah, believe it or not I just got here last week." I answered.

"Are the ponies accepting in this town?"

"Well...they weren't with me because you know being a dragon and all, but I think you'll be fine."

"Are you sure?"

"Yep! I'm sure a cute doe like you would get along fine." she blushed at the compliment and let out a giggle.

"Well I have to go and get Bolt settled in at my place I'll see you two tomorrow then."

"Okay, James I'll see you tomorrow."

"It was nice meeting you Mr.James!" called out Evelyn.

I let out a chuckle as me and Bolt left the train station and walked back to my house in Ponyville,

(Meanwhile in Canterlot)

The crystal in the throne room started to vibrate again and another crack has now formed on it's surface. Darkness will soon spread across the land.

Act 1: A New Day With Pinkie

View Online

My eyes shot open at the sound of Bolt barking from the side of my bed. I slowly push the covers off of me and sit up rubbing the crust out of my tired eyes. Bolt jumps on the bed and starts whining, which translate to 'feed me'. Getting out the bed a wobble my way in to the bathroom with Bolt passing me and heading down stairs, probably to the kitchen. I let out a long awn and turn the handle and open the door ready to-

"HIYA JAMES!!!" I almost had I heart attack as I fell backwards clutching my chest and panting heavily, I was so shocked I couldn't even make a sound. I slowly got up breathing heavily and sent a glare at a certain pink mare as she just smiled back in response.

"Pinkie! What are you doing here!?" I scream as she just giggles.

"I was just wanted to come over and see if you wanted to do some baking! Like cupcakes, muffins, brownies, ca-"

"I mean how did you get in here?"

"Oh, I have my ways." I felt my blood run cold as she gave me a sly look.'I am totally boobie trapping my house before I go to bed.'

"Well if you don't mind I am going to jump in the shower, if you want you could meet me down stairs."

"Okey dokey loki!" Pinkie then literally bounced out of the bathroom and down the hall, I let out a sigh of relief and closed the door and locking it (also putting a chair in front of it just to be safe). I opened the curtains and turned the knob and stepped in feeling the warm water on my scales, after I washed up I continued my routine like brushing my teeth and all that other stuff. I came down the stairs and had a wonderful aroma to hit my nostrils.

I head n the kitchen and find Pinkie baking pancakes on the stove. I was confused how she held the spatula with her hair; let alone flip the pancakes with it. Bolt was sitting in a seat at the table with his head down waiting for the food to be served. I chuckled a little at his behavior knowing that he was going to be one of those dogs.

"Hey Pinkie," I say walking up next to her, "What are you doing?"

"I'm making breakfast for you silly?" she answers back as she flips a pancake on a plate.

"They smell nice," I say reaching out for a plate, "do you mind if I*smack* OW!!" I grab my claw as Pinkie retracted the spatula and resumed flipping.

"Not yet, Jamsey! We all have to be seated before we could all eat." I grumble and went to the table and sit down next to Bolt. We both glanced at eachother with annoyed looks. 'Now I feel your pain' Bolt nods as if he knew what I was saying in my head. "Pancakes are ready!!" called out Pinkie as she came in the dining room, balancing three plates of pancakes on her head. She sets them down in front of me and Bolt and we are both drooling ready to dig in. Pinkie sits down at the table and nods motioning us to dig in, without a second thought I grab the fork and knife and pop the first piece in my mouth. I moaned a little as the taste hit my tongue.

"This is amazing Pinkie! Where did you learn how to cook?" I say as I eat another piece.

"I work at Sugarcube Corner where I bake all kinds of sweets with Mr and Mrs Cake." she answers.

"Cool*gulp*...so what do want do again?"

"I just wanted to show you around the town and tell you where everything is!"

"But I already know where everything is." Pinkie sent me a serious look and squinted her eyes and extended her neck across the table (no really it extended like a piece of Laffy Taffy!!).

"Really?" said Pinkie as her face was inches from mine.

"Yep!" I say quickly, I took a glance at Bolt trying to signal him for help, but he was to into his pancakes to notice.

"Are you sure?" Pinkie's eyes then bulged out of sockets, it felt like she was looking right in to my soul. I couldn't take anymore.

"Fine! I don't know where everything is. Happy!"

"Yeperoonie! If we leave now, we might have time for your 'Welcome to Ponyville Party' over at Twilight's place!" before I could answer she grabbed my arm and dragged me out the house."I'll be back Bolt!" I call out as the door shut and I am now outside with Pinkie Pie. "So Pinkie, where are we going first?"

"Weeellllll.....," she starts as she pulls out a long ass list off things, "First we can stop by Sugarcube Corner, then the market, then Sweet Apple Acres, then the Town Hall, then the joke store, the bowling alley, the mail office.."

"Whoa, whoa Pinkie," I cut her off, "how about you show me the important stuff first alright?"

"Well, if you say so!" she say as she hops off as I follow only to get hit in the back of the head by an apple.

"What the fu-" I turn around to find that nobody was there, "Huh? Weird."

"HEY JAMES! What are you doing!?" called out Pinkie

"Sorry I'm coming!" I say catching up to the pink bubbly mare.

Me and Pinkie walked around Ponyville showing me everything we passed and when I mean everything I mean EVERYTHING. She even showed me a tree! I had to admit it was fun, but it did get boring at some times, also someone keeps throwing fruit at me!

"And this is our last stop, Sugarcube Corner!" she announces as I instantly noticed that it was a freakin' gingerbread house. 'Wait? Is this thing actually made out gingerbread and if it s what do they do when it rains?'

"Me and Cakes do all of our baking here!"

"Cool, can we go inside?"

"Of course we can!"

"Then let's g-"

"Just not right now." I gave her a confused look. WHy doesn't she want me to go inside? It's a bakery right, so it should be open to the public....unless it's different here? Wait a minute......Pinkie did say she was throwing me a party....maybe it' a surprise party and everyone is setting up here? Yeah, that makes perfect sense! 'Alright I'll play along'.

I felt another fruit hit me upside the head, now getting irritated with all this 'pelting me with fruit' game I turn to see a stallion running away from me and Pinkie. "I GOT YOU NOW YOU BITCH ASS MOTHER FUCKER!!!" I yell and spread my wings and race after the stallion. I could hear Pinkie telling me to stop but I ignored her and kept pursuing my target.

He turned down the alley as I followed I dived bombed and tackled the stallion and pinning him to the ground. I instantly noticed the horn on his head identifying him as a unicorn, he had a silver coat and mane, which was shoulder length, and a silver snake's head and tongue as a cutie mark.

"Why the fuck are throwing fruit at me, man!" I yell at the stallion as he let's out a crazy chuckle.

"What I can't give a newcomer to Ponyville some fruit to wear." he says I felt my blood boil.

"Keep doing that, and I'll FUCK you up!"

"Ooooh I'm so scared."

"Ok that's it!" I slam him on the wall which only got him to laugh even more. 'This nigga thinks he is the damn Joker.'

"James stop!" I turn my head to see Pinkie at the opening of the alley with a worried expression on her face. Why I have a soft spot for girls will never be explained. I let out a sigh and drop the stallion to the ground with him still laughing. Pikie runs up to me and gave me a disapproving glare.

"Oh don't you give me that look! This guy was throwing fruit at me all day!" I say in defense.

"That doesn't mean you have to be a meanie pants to him!"

"WHAT!! He hit me with a fuckin' watermelon!"

"Don't I have a say in this story?" said the grey unicorn

"Shut up before I rip out your tongue!" I say back to the silver unicorn. Damn, I never been this mad before? Well, dicks like this guy do that to you.

"James listen," started Pinkie, "Silver Sheen, might be a meanie pants, but that's just the way he is."

"So what is his special talent?"

"It's a mystery to you, and a secret to me." I heard Silver Sheen say behind me with a mocking tone, which made me snap.

"OK THAT"S IT!!" I scream and launch a ball of fire behind me only to hit the ground. 'Where the fuck did he go?'. I glance over to Pinkie with a glare only for it to soften as I noticed her hair was now straight, and her coat was a darker shade of pink. She sniffled and watched me with watery eyes. I let out a small sigh and put a claw on Pinkie's shoulder who averted her gaze from me.

"Hey, Pinkie," she didn't respond, "I'm sorry you had to see that, but I just don't like being picked on."

"But why did you have to try to hurt him?" she says in a small voice.

"It's just, where I come from a lot of people get hurt and when some likes him shows up.....well you saw what happened." There was silence between us. Pinkie only nodded in understanding as her mane and coat went back to normal but she still had a sad expression on her face. Until an idea popped in my head.

"Hey Pinkie?" I say getting her attention.

"How about later I show you what a slushie tastes like." she gave me a confused look.

"What's a slushie?"

"The best drink created by man."

"Better than cider?"

"Way better." she smiles wide at this making me feel somewhat better for cheering her up, "Come on let's go back to my place, I don't want Bolt chewing up the sofa." we both laugh as we exited the alley and headed down the road.

When we made it back to my house I stopped Pinkie in front of the door, "Hey Pinkie, thanks for showing me around today." I thank her while getting the key under the matt.

"No problem Jamsey! Even though it didn't end well at least you had fun and that's all that matters!" she says cheerfully making me chuckle and unlock the door. I instantly notice that it is pitch black in the house and Bolt was no where to be seen. "Hey Bolt! Ya' here boy?" I say with a whistle but no response. "Hey Pinkie, stay out here just in case you need to get the girls if things go south." she nods and waits by the door as I walk in slowly and immediately go in a defensive stance when I heard shuffling from inside the darkness of my house.

"Hey if someones in here I'm going to fuck you u-"

"SURPRISE!!!!"

"JESUS TAKE THE WHEEL!" I yell out in shock and falling backwards and clutching my chest. My vision was filled with confetti and streamers as I was on the ground, when I picked myself back up I noticed the rest of Pinkie's friends, Bolt ,and the other ponies I met when I got here. "Didya like it! Didya! Didya! Didya!" said Pinkie jumping around me.

"I don't know what to say right now." I simply said still in astonishment.

"Y-you don't like it d-do you."

"No no no, I like it. It's just....how did they get in here I locked the door when I left?" Pinkie gave me a sly look.

"I have my ways, but in the mean time let's get this party started!"

Loud music started to play as ponies started to dance to the beat. "So that's why you wanted to show me around, so everyone else can set up all this."

"Yeperoonie and it's all for you!" I smile at this and look around and my eyes notice a certain white dog under the food table. I let out a chuckle and walk over there, I look under the table to see Bolt with vanilla frosting on his face and smacking his lips happily. "And what do you think you're doing Bolt?" I say in a mocking tone as he quickly jumps up and knocks his head from under the table. I let out a laugh as he walks out sending me a glare.

"Sorry, boy couldn't resist." I apologize wiping a tear from the corner of my eye, who Bolt simply rolled his eyes and walked somewhere else. Since I'm already here I might as well get some food, I grab me a plate and place different varieties of sweets on it and take a seat at one of the table that was set up and dug right in devouring each item in seconds.

"Hello you must be James." said a voice I didn't recognize, looking up my eyes went wide at what I saw. It was.....I don't know what the hell this thing was, it seemed like some tried to make a frankenstein out of animal parts. "Uhh...yeah, who are you?" I ask wondering who this pers..uh..pon..no that's not right.....thing is.

"Oh, I forget my manners sometimes my name is Discord spirit of chaos and disharmony." said Discord with a bow.

"Well...uh..it's nice to meet you what brings you here?" I ask cocking my head in confusion.

"Why I was invited of course! You can't have a party with out a little chaos it's just unnatural!"

"So are you evil or something?"

"No no no, I was never evil, I'm the spirit of chaos it's my jab to spread mischief wherever I go." started Discord as he put a arm around my shoulder and snapped his fingers making two glasses of lemonade to appear on the table," I was a little coo-coo back in the day but thanks to dear Fluttershy, I am now reformed and using my chaos magic for the sake of Equestria even though I do add a little mischief on the side."

"Oh I get it so you're like Loki?"

"You could say that. Oh! Before I forget I got a little present for you." Disord then snapped his fingers causing a wrapped box to materialize on the table, I look at it curiously before looking at Discord....come on guys if you got a present from a person that causes chaos and mischief you would be investigating it as well. I pick up the box and shake it light and I definitely could hear something from inside.

"It's not going to explode is it?" I ask.

"Maybe, maybe not. How about you open it to find out?" he answers with a sly grin. Fuck it it's not like it's going to blow up the plca-

"OH MY GOD!! NO YOU DIDN'T!!!" I yell causing the whole party to stop and look at me. Pinkie zoomed up in front of me with a concerned look on her face.

"Jamesy what's wrong, did Discord do something coo-coo again?" asked Pinkie glaring at Discord, who now had a halo on his head.

"What? You mean my new best friend? Yeah he did! He gave me the best present of all time!" I cheer as I pull out an Galaxy-S6 with a pair of Dr. Dre Beats, but the best part was they were mine from back home! How in the blue hell did he get these? Wait a minute can he open dimensions? I turned to ask but found him gone.

"Where did he go?" I ask Pinkie.

"He said that he had to leave, because he was late for something." said Pinkie.

"Uh..James what are those things?" suddenly asked Rarity.

"Well, back in my world we use these to call other people and listen to music."

"So it's magic? Because there is no way you can do that with that little thing right?"

"Oh it's not magic, it's science. The best science that's out there! Look I'll show you!" with that said I run up to the dj's booth and grab the audio jack stopping the music and plugging it up to the phone. I scrolled through the phone and tapped on the app for my music and instantly found the song I was looking for.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_4_6bqQDBag

I started to bob my head to the music as everyone else was listening curiously, obviously not hearing the song before. After a few moments everyone started to jam with me and soon they all started to dance. I decided to stay their with my phone so I could choose another song, luckily the Dj didn't mind since she was going to get paid for the job anyways.

I felt a tap on my shoulder , I turned around and to my surprise to see Derpy standing there. "Oh! Hey Derpy what's up?"

"Hi James! I want you to meet my daughter, Dinky!" she answers with a smile as I look at her with a shocked expression as a small unicorn filly came up by her side.

"Daughter?"

"Yep! This is my little muffin!"

"Mooooom! Your embarrassing me!" cried Dinky with a small blush on her face making me chuckle.

"How about you go have fun while I talk to Mr.James Alright, muffin?"

"Okay mom!" with that said the little filly went off to the dance floor

"Sooo how ya' been?" I ask.

"I've been good! Delivering mail has never been so fantastic! What about you?"

"I've been fine,as you can see I just moved in."

There was an awkward silence between us as we both just stared at the dancing crowd. I spotted the mane six chatting together. Spike, Dinky and the crusaders were dancing on the dance floor with Bolt. I even saw Bookworm, Evelyn, Mayor Mare, and Jack on the dance floor as well. It made a smile creep on to my face as I noticed that I was going to like living here.

"H-hey James?" said Derpy gaining my attention.

"Yeah?" I answer.

"W-w-would you like to dance?"

" I would love to." I say causing her to squeal in happiness as we both walked out to the dance floor.

Act 1: A New Day With Rainbow

View Online

"Who are you calling?" Sam asked with a confused look on her face.

"I was just thinking that we should have some fun tonight." I answer while searching through my contacts on my phone.

"But who are you calling?"

"The crew." she gives me a worried look.

"You're not going to do anything stupid are you?"

"Of course not, we're just going to go out somewhere."

"Like where?"

"I don't know, what time is it, like about six o'clock? So we could all go to the skating rink."

"ALright, but should you be driving while talking on the phone?"

"Why do you think I'm at a stop sign?" Sam gives me an understanding nod and smile as I give her one back. I put my phone up to my ear as heard the tone for my contacts phone ringing waiting to be picked up. I heard the the tone stop as I instantly knew that, my friend Rome, picked it up.

"Sup, James." he said on the other line.

"Hey, what are you and the boys doing?" I ask.

"Nuttin' much, Cam and Chaz are asleep and the rest of us are just watching t.v."

"So you guys' don't feel like going out tonight do ya'?"

"Nah, maybe some other time but you could ask Sam if she's around."

"Right, thanks again man."

"No probs." with that said we both hung up the phone, "Well it seems like the rest of them doesn't want to go anywhere."

"What do you want to do now?" Sam asked with a confused expression. I had to admit she was pretty cute when she gave me that face, I used to the biggest crush on her when we first met back in middle school. I still kind of do, but ever since she started to date that bitch, Flash, and after what he did to her that caused them to break up....I don't know....some of the feelings I had for her kind of went away.

Now those same feelings are starting to come back.

"We could....um....y'know see a movie." I say sweating bullets in my seat.

"If I didn't know any better. I say you're asking me on a date James." said Sam giving me a sly smile from my passenger seat as I tried to hide a blush forming on my cheeks. I coughed in my throat as I quickly regained my composure.

"And what if I am?" I reply trying to keep my cool, but instantly having it taken away as she leans over and gives me a peck on the cheek. I sat their like a deer looking into headlights on the highway. She lets out a cute giggle at my reaction as I am trying to process what happened.

"I swear James, sometimes you are so unobservent sometimes."

"Unobserved? Me? Girl, you must be smoking."

"Then you must've already noticed that I had a crush on you since the first day we've met."

"Really?" I felt her hand grasp mine I she gives a slow nod, "Well, to tell you the truth I had one on you since middle school."

"Really?" she said in shock, "Why didn't you tell me?"

"I don't know actually. Maybe I was just afraid or never had the guts to tell you. So when you started dating Flash I just...let go." There was an awkward silence between us as we just sat in the car. She put her head down in what I could tell was guilt, but why was she feeling guilty? If I would've told her how I felt before none of that stuff with FLash would have happened. Hell, we might even be together.

"Sam I-hmpf!" I was cut off by her lips meeting mine. My eyes widened in shock for a second, but soon melted in the kiss. She moaned in pleasure as her tongue probed my lips asking for entrance which I gladly obliged. Our wet appendages wrestled for dominance as she massaged my arm and I caressed her cheek. We both let out a moan of pleasure in to each other mouths enjoying eachother's company.

We both separate for a breath of air, but our gazes are still locked on each other."You don't know how long I wanted to do that." she says with a smile on her face as I flash one back. "So does that mean we're..." I started as she nods her head in confirmation.

"In that case," I say as I start the engine to the car, which surprisingly no one drove from behind me since we stopped right at a stop sign, "What movie should we see?"

Sam puts a finger to her chin and thinks, "I haven't seen Jurassic World yet, have you?"

"Nope, guess that settles it." with that said I push the gas pedal and we drive to the closest movie theatres. Once we got there I had butterflies in my stomach, yeah I've been on dates before, but I felt calm, like the girls I went out with was just any other person and there was nothing special about them so it would just be a one night thing. This date though isn't like the others, my skin is sweating like crazy, my body temperature feels like it just came back from the sun, and my heart rate is going crazy that I could practically feel it in my chest.

Sam seeming to notice my state clung on to my arm after we got out the car, this made me relax a bit and let out a deep breath. "Thanks Sam I needed that."

"Just don't go passing out in the movie on me." she says playfully as we both laugh while walking to the ticket booth. And everything else went perfect from that point, I paid for our tickets for the movie, we went to the concessions for some warm fresh popcorn and a extra-large ICEE with some candy on the side. We found some good seating, because since the movie came out like a couple weeks ago there wasn't anybody in there with us so we had our privacy.

Sam had her head on my shoulder throughout the movie while we ate our popcorn and candy and also sipped on our ICEE. Some parts of the movie did make us jump a little causing Sam clench on to my arm making me give out a light chuckle. Once we finished our popcorn, candy, and ICEE, Sam came out of her seat and sat in my lap. We held each other close as we watched the rest of movie, we shared a passionate kiss as we embraced, enjoying eachother's company.

Everything was going perfect. Once the movie came to the end Sam stood up out of my lap and so did I out of my seat. I grasped her hand and we both left the the theatre, after going to the restroom real quick after drinking that extra large ICEE. Once our business was taken care of we started to head back to the car, Sam clinging to me until we got there. "I really had a great time, James." she whispered in my ear.

But before I could answer someone with a black sweatshirt with his hood up bumped making Sam almost fall on her back, but luckily I was there in time to catch her. "Hey man, watch where you're going!" I yell at the hooded man, which I instantly regretted and that's when things started to go down hill.

"What did you say to me?" the hooded man said in a low gruff voice.

"I said watch where you're going because you almost knocked us over." I say in a stern voice.

"Well maybe if you paid attention to your surroundings instead of being stupidly distracted by one another nothing bad will happen." this comment made my blood boil.

"WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY THAT!" I felt A tug on my arm trying to get me to let it go but I ignored her wanting to know an answer, but instead the hooded man reached in his pants......and pulled out a pistol. Everything then went so fast I couldn't even process what happened. All I saw was Sam jumping in front of me and the sound of the trigger being pulled.

BANG!!!

My eyes shoot open in my bed panting heavily, I'm sweating like a storm as I quickly pull off the covers and put my claws in my hands. I felt tears start to build up in my eyes. I couldn't believe I had that nightmare again, I take a glance at the clock at my night stand and it read two o'clock a.m. Bolt was curled up at the end of the bed still fast asleep not awakened from my outburst. I didn't want to go back to sleep, I needed to clear my mind.

"Maybe I just need some fresh air." I say to myself as I walk over to the window and open it before flying off in the night.

I flew over the town of Ponyville everything was dark, with ponies in their homes having peaceful dreams, but not me though. I flew high until I reached the clouds I stopped and hovered there watching my surroundings I could see Twilight's castle towering over the town like a beacon of hope, I see Sweet Apple Acres with it's trees full of leaves and apples swaying back and forth slowly in the night breeze. I flew past Fluttershy's place and it looked so peaceful, that's one of the things I do miss about living with Flutters, it was always so peaceful when she was around.

I spotted a random tree close to her house and decided to land there. I took a look around and noticed that it was between The Everfree and Flutters house which is good, just in case something tries to pay Fluttershy an unwelcomed visit. Laying my scaley down at the trunk of the tree I let out a yawn and rested my head on the soft grass and let sleep take me.

I slowly started to wake as someone was softly shaking me. "Hey James wake up." I instantly recognized the voice as Rainbow Dash, I slowly got up and stretched my les and wings until a popping sound was heard. The sun was out and from the looks of it, it was about midday. I turned my attention to Rainbow who now had a confused but some what annoyed look on her face.

"Sup Rainbow? What's the matter?" I say with a confused expression.

"Well, other than you being in one of my favorite places to get some z's I'm cool." simply said Rainbow shrugging her shoulders.

"Oh, sorry about that I didn't know."

"Nah! Forget about it, I have other spots around Ponyville. So what are you doing today?"

"Well, I don't know actually probably just stay home and chill out for the rest of the day."

Rainbow didn't agree. "How much as that sounds tempting to do, you won't be doing that today."

"Why not?"

"Because! You and I are going to Cloudsdale, everypony there wants to meet you since you're one of the few dragons that are....well welcomed...in pony society, plus we're going to Scoot's club meeting."

"Wait how did they know about me so quickly? I only been here for a couple weeks?"

"That's because you live in Ponyville. Whenever something strange or important happens here all of Equestria knows in about two days time."

"So they won't trip, if I went there?"

"Well, there are some ponies who....are not too fond of dragons....but since you'll be with the one and only me you'll be A-okay in my book." Rainbow finishes with a playful salute and a determined expression.

"Alright, cool. Just let's just head over to my place for a sec. Gotta go check up on Bolt." I say before spreading my wings getting ready for take off.

"No problem, let's go." with that said me and Rainbow fly off from Fluttershy's cottage toward Ponyville. As we were flying Rainbow decided to bring up a random conversation. "So that was some party last night. huh?" started Rainbow as I raised an eyebrow.

"Yeah, it was."

Silence.

"So, I saw you on the dance floor with Derpy." this made me almost lose control of my flight pattern as Rainbow just giggled at my reaction. My cheeks heating for realizing what kind of talk this is going to be.

"Yeah, so."

"Oh come on! Don't tell me you don't see it!"

"See what?"

"Derpy! She likes you dude." This made me stop causing Rainbow to do the same as we hovered in the air surprisingly over my house. I didn't care at the moment though as my brain was trying to process at what Rainbow Dash just said.

"W-what?"

"I said the Derpy likes you. Alot too." Yep, that's what I thought she said. Wait a minute?"

"How do you know this?"

"W-well, D-Derpy was the one that told me."

"Wow...this is just....damn I was not expecting this."

"Well, just be careful."

"Don't worry I'm not going to hurt Der-"

"I was talking about the OTHER ponies that have a thing for you."

"They're others?" Rainbow let out a groan in annoyance and faced hoof, "Oh come on! You can't be this unobservant of your surroundings!" I only shrug in response. She let's out a defeated sigh and looks around like what she was about to tell could end the world if the wrong person heard it.

"Flutters and Twi'...." she whispers.

"What about them." I whisper back.

"They are the other ponies that like you stupid!"

"They told you this too?"

"Well no....I've known Fluttershy for a lot longer than the others so I know how she reacts to things, and with Twilight I...uh...read her diary."

"You didn't." I say in disbelief.

"Well, it didn't say that she had feelings for you but the way she described and talked about...it was definitely leading up to it."

"Wow Rainbow, I'm speechless...."

"Yeah, I didn't expect them-"

"No no no, I mean that you are telling me that Derpy has feelings for me even though it's probably a secret, can tell when someone is in love, and reading other people's' diary. I expect this from Rarity, but you? Wow, I'm impressed." Rainbow sent me a glare with her cheeks as red as cherries. I busted out laughing as Rainbow punched the side of my arm obviously mad for making her feel embarrassed.

"Just go in your stupid house and what you have to do." she grumbled crossing her forelegs in a pouty manner.

"You got it!" I send her a wink before I descend down to the front door and enter the house. I was met with Bolt who was sitting on the couch....reading a newspaper? Okay, ever since I adopted Bolt he has been acting strange. Like the other day he poured himself a glass of milk. How the hell did he manage to do that!? He even went to the bathroom! Flushed and everything! Maybe I'll visit Twilight or Fluttershy to see why he's acting like this.

I freeze in place, does Twilight and Fluttershy really like me? I only been here for about three weeks, plus the information IS coming from Rainbow Dash and I know how much she loves pranks. I'm still cleaning out my vents because of her and Pinkie's butter incident. But the two have been acting strange around me since the party, I just thought it was that time of the month so I just shrugged it off. And Derpy how long did she have feelings for me? Is that why she wanted to dance at the party because she...loved me? Me and Dinky are pretty close and she does always leaves of that piece of heaven(Banana Nut Muffins), every time she delivers me mail or someone else's mail.

"Do....I like them back?" I say to myself.

That's ridiculous, they're a whole 'nother species. It's basicly taboo to get in a relationship with a pony....dragon or human. Fluttershy does has that cute giggle that she does and Twilight's eyes are like you looking to the stars themselves, and Derpy's adorable attitude, who could say no to tha-

"GAH DAMMIT!!" I yell throwing my hands up in confusion. What am I thinking and even IF it was okay to date a pony I can't have all three of them! Well, maybe it's different here where there is a specific way to maaaaaAAAAHHHHHH DAMMIT!

I let out a sigh of defeat, "I'm going to have to talk to Rarity about this stuff, she seems like the expert of these kind of things."

I said my goodbyes to Bolt who barked in response before going back to read the newspaper on the couch. "I'm never going to get used to this" I said slowly walking to the door and opening it and meeting Rainbow with an impatient look on her face. "What's up with you?"

"What took you so long?" asked Rainbow with an angered expression.

"What? I was only inside for like ten or fifteen minutes?"

"Exactly! I would've taken ten to fifteen seconds." I roll my eyes and walk past her.

"Yeah, yeah let's just go."

I was about to take off until Rainbow stopped me by putting a hoof on my shoulder. "Why were you screaming?"

"O-oh, ya' herd that?"

"I'll have to be pretty deaf to not hear that."

"Well for your information Skittles," causing her face to frown, "I...uh....stubbed my foot on the table..Yeah!"

"Wow, you even worst then Applejack when it comes to lying. ANyways how about a little race to Cloudsdale?"

I give her a cocky grin, "You dare challenge me mortal?"

"Anytime, anywhere!"

We both laugh as we both spread our wings and take positions, until I noticed something. "Wait a second I don't know where Cloudsdale is?"

"Well that's your problem! One-two-three-go!" Rainbow then shot off in the sky leaving a rainbow trail....leading in the other direction.

"That cheating sonova BITCH!" I scream before turning around and shooting off after her.

Me and Rainbow stood at the entrance of Cloudsdale panting like a storm, even though she tried to be slick and try to win, I was able to catch up and make it a tie. "Nice....hah....rice...hah." I try to squeeze out before sitting down.

"Rice?" asked Rainbow with a confused expression.

"I meant race...hah...nice race."

"You are really out of shape are you?"

Coughing and and taking one final breath I was able to recover my breathing, "I'm not out of shape...kind of....I just hadn't been in a race for a while." Rainbow rolled her eyes in response.

"Yeah, yeah come on I wanna show you around before it get's too late."

"Wait...I just noticed we're standing on clouds!"

"Yeah and.....don't you humans stand on clouds where your from?"

"Hell no!"

"Well the question you need to ask yourself is how is a dragon standing on clouds when only pegasi can?"

"I don't know maybe it's because I'm different." I shrug which Rainbow does the same as we both walk through the cloudy entrance, I instantly noticed that almost everything was made out of...you guessed it...clouds. The buildings, roads, poles....even a freakin' pay phone was made out of clouds! While Rainbow Dash showed me around town and telling me where everything was, but I wasn't paying attention to her I was mostly focusing on the other pegasi we walked pass.

When I say that these ponies were glad to see me,,,I mean they were REALLY glad to see me. Some had huge smiles plastered on their faces and waving at me and Dash, while some would actually come up to us and ash us questions mostly about me.

"Hey numbnuts, you listening?" asked Rainbow snapping me from my thoughts.

"Oh yeah, of course."

"You weren't really listening were you?"

I let out a defeated sigh, "Not really sorry I was just-"

"James! Over here!" I look behind me to see....Derpy.....I couldn't even look at the same after what Dash told back in Ponyville. But she doesn't know that I know right? SO maybe if I don't make it awkward things will be alright. "Hey Derpy, what's up?" I say while me and Rainbow walk to her.

"I was just delivering some packages, for some ponies here."

"Don't you deliver mail in Ponyville though?"

"Oh I do but I sometimes deliver it to other places depending on the pony receiving it."

"Oh that's cool." awkward silence. This is so weird, I shouldn't be freezing up right now.

"H-hey, if you don't mind I was wondering if you...um.." stuttered Derpy pawing at the ground. I could hear Rainbow snickering from beside because of the obvious reason in front of us. I put a claw on Derpy's shoulder as she looks at me with a nervous look. "It's ok Derpy you can ask me anything and I guarantee nine out of ten I will say yes."

Derpy seemed to produce a little confidence at this, "I was wondering if you want to go to Sugar =cube Corner for a muffin....as friends of course!" she quickly says hiding a cute blush on her cheeks. I myself was taken back at first, Rainbow wasn't kidding when she said Derpy had a thing for me.

"S-sure, how about next Friday?" I say causing her to squeal in excitement and pull me into an embrace, which I gladly gave one back.

"Oh thank you thank you thank you! I'll see you then." she says before flying off.

"So I see you're going on a date with Derpy?" says Rainbow with a playful tone making me blush.

"It's not a date it's just a meetup between two friends."

"Of course it is, plus what are you going to do when Twilight and Flutters find out about this?"

Oh shit I totally forgot about them. How would they react? Would they be jealous? Would they be not care? Gah dammit I'm thinking way too much about these mares right now. Maybe I should just go home and clear my head 'cause if I don't we are going to have a serious problem.

"Hey Dash, I'm sorry but I need to get back home." I apologize while Rainbow just looks at me in confusion and disappointment.

"Why?! I haven't even showed you the stadium where the Wonderbolts practice at!"

"I just....don't feel good..and just need a little nap to clear my head.

Rainbow expressions softens a little, "Fine, but you owe me." she gives me a light bump on the shoulder and flies off. I let out a deep sigh and fly the other direction thinking about three certain mares. "I should really talk to Rarity about this shit soon." I grumble as I fly toward Ponyville for a good nap.

"And it's been acting like this for the past few days?" asked Celestia examining the now cracked crystal.

"Yes ma'm." said one of the guards as Celestia had a stern look on her face.

"I want this crystal taken to the lab immediately for testing." said Celestia as the guard nodded and lifting the crystal with his magic and disappearing down the hall. Celestia sat in her throne room pondering on what was going on. What has James given her? Why was she feeling a dark presence fro this crystal? And why did this presence feel like James is inside the crystal even though she knows he is in Ponyville?

"I need to get to the bottom of this." simply said Celestia as she took out a quill and parchment.

Dear Princess Twilight Sparkle....

Act 1: A New Day With Applejack and Rarity

View Online

I walked down the dirt path that led outside of Ponyville while deep in thought about the events that transpired yesterday. Three mares, three attractive mares at that, all had...feelings for me. Do I like them back? Am I just sorry for them? All these kinds of questions kept appearing in my skull as I would believe to find a solution to one, but conjure up another question in the process. I decided to go on a walk this morning, just to get some fresh air since I had all this stress and curiosity pent up inside me.

Taking a look at my surroundings I noticed I was walking past apple trees leading to a whole orchard of apple trees. "I must be close to Applejack's place." I say to myself as I spread my wings and soar over the orchard, "Maybe Applejack has an opinion on this?" Yeah, she is the Element of Honesty, so she'll give me an honest answer on what to do. Wait, does her element work like that? Or does she just have to tell the truth, I'm just going to put those on my list of 'what to ask AJ'.

"Damn, this a big orchard!" I say to myself hovering over the vast rows of apple trees, trying to see if I can spot Applejack, but to no luck. I then noticed a certain clubhouse that belonged to three little fillies, having a smile form on my face I glide down to the ground and approach the club house and climb up the ladder and knock on the small door.

"Who is it!" yelled the voice of Scootaloo.

"Pizza guy!" I call back holding back a chuckle. God, I love kids.

"What the hay is pizza-" she starts with a confused look but then it went to glee once she saw me and pulls my neck down in a hug, "James! What are you doing here?"

"What I can't see how the three of you little squirts are doing from time to time." I say before lifting my head back up and following her inside the clubhouse.

"Hey Scoots who was at the door?" asked Applebloom.

"And did you find out what a pizza was-" added Sweetie Belle. The two fillies then had big grins on their faces as I walked through the door, knowing the routine every time I was with them. I braced for impact I was tacked on the ground in a massive hug. "James! Where have ya' been we haven't seen ya' in like forever!" said Applebloom.

"Yeah , what happened?" added Sweetie nuzzling into my neck. I chuckled at how worried they were, it was adorable. Ever since I came to Equestria the crusaders and I got closer everyday, Scootaloo and I would always talk learning how to fly. I asked her if she could but she gave a sad look and said no, but was lifted up in spirit when she told me that Rainbow was teaching her private lessons. Applebloom would tell me about what cutie marks and the different kinds they are and was explaining which one she and the crusaders should try to get next. Of course I recommended the safe ones like a cleaning cutie mark or a cooking cutie mark, Applebloom didn't really like that so much. I gotta' say though out of all of them, I say I'm closest to Sweetie Belle the most, don't get me wrong I care for all three of them like little sisters, but for some reasons I have more of a connection with Sweetie, like she was actually a kin of me.

"I've just been busy lately that's all." I reply as the two slowly got off of me.

"Soooo, what are you doing here?" asked Applebloom.

"Oh. I almost forgot I was hoping if you seen Applejack I need to talk to her."

"About what?" asked Scootaloo.

"Grown up stuff."

"Awwwww, come on we're old enough to know."

"Yeah! We're not babies anymore!" protested Sweetie.

"Hehe, Okay how 'bout this you guys lead me to AJ and after I'm done talking to her I'll tell you everything." I say.

"Pinkie Promise?"

"Yeah, yeah."

"Sounds good to me, I'll show ya' where she is." said Applebloom as I followed her toward the door, "I'll be right back girls."

"I'll visit you girls later!" I say waving as they waved back. Me and Applebloom walked out the tree house and climbed down the ladder, as we touched the ground I was caught off guard as Applebloom climbed on my back. "You could've warned me if you were going to do that." I say with a grin.

"Sweetie and Scoots always get a ride, I just though it's my turn to get some fun." said Applebloom with a hint of confidence. I let out a light laugh as she pointed me in the direction of Applejack. As we walked Applebloom was telling me about the adventures she, Scoots, and Sweetie went on while I wasn't around. I felt a little guilt that I didn't at least swing by just to say a simple hello, but Applebloom said that everything was ok.

We walked for about ten minutes through the orchard, and damn this a huge orchard, until we came back at the entrance where I came from and saw a big red barn and a small house. 'Huh? How did I miss that?' I think to myself as Applebloom leads me to the back of the house. Where we spotted Applejack kicking some trees causing apples to descend into their awaiting baskets below.

"Hey Applejack, James is here to talk to ya'!" yelled out Applebloom gaining Aj's attention.

"Well, fancy seeing you here sugarcube, what can I help ya' with?" asked Applejack.

"I just wanted to talk to you about.....personal things" I say as Applejack seemed to know what I meant as she sent Applebloom back to the treehouse, who groaned in response. Applejack led me over to the porch of the house and we both sat down. "This is about Twi', Flutters, and Derpy right?" said Applejack in a flat tone as I looked at her in a surprised expression.

"H-How did you-"

"Rainbow told me."

"Seriously!? Like I said I expected this from Rarity not her."

"Anyways, Have ya' figured what are you gonna' do yet?"

"No, not really....that's why I came here to get your opinion. Fluttershy has been helping me ever since I got here, Twilight is smart and funny, and Derpy is just adorable, but-"

Applejack cuts me off by putting a hoof on my shoulder. "You're afraid ya' might hurt one of them are ya'?" I look to the ground and nod slowly.

"But there is another thing, I don't know if I like them back, and I don't want to say anything unless I'm absolutely sure."

Applejack puts a hoof on my shoulder and I lift my head to stare at her green irises, "Well, I have one answer to one of your problems."

"What is it?" I say with a hint of hope.

"Have ya' ever heard of a herd during your time staying in Equestria?" I put a claw to my chin and ponder at the thought. Huh, I haven't heard of that, what is it though?

"Now that you mention it, no not at all."

"Well, since us mares outnumber stallions five to one, Princess Celestia decided to form herds, where one stallion can have more than one partner."

"Wait so you're saying that you can have more than one girlfriend!? And everyone is just ok with it!?" This is every man's dream.

"Sure can, but the stallion has to choose a lead mare." I look at her with a dumfounded expression. Wow, is this for real? I can't even fathom how that just made things easier for me. I have been on this ever since Rainow told me yesterday, "Well that fixes one of my problems but....like I said I don't know if I like any of them back."

Applejack puts a fore leg over my shoulder and pulls me into a hug, "Just follow your heart sugarcube, then you'll know. Ask them out and get to know them better."

I break the embrace and nod, "Thanks Aj, it really means a lot. I'm going to see Rarity so I'll see ya' later."

"No problem, good luck."

"Thanks." I say before spreading my wings and flying off back towards Ponyville.

I landed in front of Rarity's boutique and gave a few knocks on the door. "Comiiiing." sang Rarity as I heard come towards the door and open it and gave me a look like she was expecting me, before I could greet her she grabbed me with her magic and pulled me inside before slamming the door and flipping the sign in fron to say 'closed'.

"What the hell Rar-mphf!!" I was cut off as Rarity put a hoof over my mouth .

"James, darling I would like if you would not scream, please." she says as I roll my eyes in annoyance and nod in response.

"Was it really necessary to just drag me in here against my will? I have legs you know." Rarity then gives an embarrassed blush.

"I'm sorry, darling I'm just excited for you!!"

"What are you....oh god you know."

"Of course I do James, you can't hide things like romance from me."

"Well...um...then I guess you already know why I'm here?"

"Of course, Rainbow told me everything, but I have to say I expected this more from me than her."

"I KNOW RIGHT!!" Rarity led me to a sofa and motioned me to sit down as she walked off to the other room and came back with two cups of hot tea in her magic. She sits down next to me and hands me the cup, luckily because of my thick scales I didn't feel the pain. "Alright James, tell me what got you interested in to these mares." she says while looking at me with half-lidded eyes.

"You mean, Twi', Flutters, and Derpy right?"

She nods, "Well as you already now Fluttershy and I have known eachother for awhile now, plus she's the one that took me in when I came here, she's kind, loving, and cares about others more than herself."

"Interesting, what about Twilight?"

"Twilight and I have talked but it seems like everytime I'm around her I am lost for words y'know, like if I say something stupid then I'll screw everything up. She's smart,cute, and like Fluttershy cares about her friends more than herself and I respect that."

"And Derpy."

Rarity had a confused tone in her voice when she said that but I ignored it, "Derpy Is well just adorable all together, she's funny and has the cutest smile. She has the most adorable kid and sometimes I can't help but think about her every time I go to bed. Hell, she even asked me if we could go to Sugarcube Corner."

"So, like a date?"

"Well, I wouldn't say a date but rather a get together."

"James darling I know a date when I see one, what did I tell you before you can't hide anything from me. So what's stopping you from telling them how you feel?" I sit there for a second trying to figure out why I haven't done that. Was I scared? Maybe, I didn't want the same incident to happen with them like....Sam. My expression softened as I look away from Rarity trying to fight back tears.

"James! Are you alright?" asked Rarity clearly concerned.

"Y-yeah, I'm cool." I started, "R-remember when I first got here and I told you and Fluttershy about why I was stage fright?"

"Yes? What about it?"

"Well, remember my friend Sam?"

"Yes?"

"Well, after that event I told you about me and Sam found out we had feelings for eachother and went out on our first date." I paused trying to keep it together,"Everything was going great until some guy almost ran it to us and then-" I was at the point where tears was now running down my cheeks, Rarity then pulled me into a hug and let me lay a head on her shoulder and motioned me to carry on, "I was being so stupid, I don't know if it's different here, but back where I am from the guy will always stick up for his girl no matter what. So being the idiot I am I yelled at the person who almost knocked us over and.....and.....everything happened so fast and the next thing I knew the guy was running away and there was Sam lying on the ground with a bloody hole in her stomach."

"W-what happened next?" asked Rarity, rubbing my orange spines as I cried softly into her coat.

I took a deep breath and continued, "I-I rushed her to the nearest hospital and started screaming desperately for help. When they doctors took her I pleaded to be with her, but the nurses wouldn't let me so I had to be in the waiting room for who knows how long. B-but when they finally c-ame to tell me h-how she was I a-a-lready knew the answer." Now it was Rarity's turn to shed tears I knew this would be too much for her, but I continued on, "They told me her last words were to stay golden and everything will be alright."

"W-w-well *sniff*, James I'm so sorry for you. I-I know you must be f-feeling terrible right n-now." stuttered Rarity. I wipe my eyes and look at Rarity a she does the same. Rarity then, to my surprise gives me a peck on the cheek making me stunned.

"Wh-What the hell w-was that?" I ask in confusion.

"You needed it darling, I know after what you've been through I'm sure you'll need some comfort." she answers, flashing me a sad smile as I giver her one back. Our attention was then focused on the rapid knocking o the door, Rarity was about to answer but i told her I'll get it instead, She was about to protest, but I was already off the couch and walking towards the door. When I opened it I was surprised who I saw.

"Twilight?" I say, looking at the lavender alicorn. She looked worried and was sweating like a storm.

"James! Thank Celestia you're here! We need to go to Canterlot now!" she said in a hurry. Before I could ask why she grabs my arm and pulls me out the boutique I wave to Rarity as she waves back. I gave her a look that said 'Are you going to be ok' as she gave one back that said 'I'll be fine.'. Satisfied I left out with Twilight, stopping in my tracks and halting her to a stop a gave her a stern look.

"Yo Twilight, you're going to have to chill for a second. What got you so worked up?" I say to her.

"Do I have to explain it now!"

"Yes you do! Since you rudely interrupted my conversation with Rarity." Twilight was taken back at my outburst even I was too, I was still emotional from my talk with Rarity so my temper might not be where it's supposed to be at the moment. "S-sorry Twi'" I apologize putting a claw on her shoulder, "It' just been a long day."

"You don't have to be, it was rather rude of me."

"It's fine, you can tell me what's going until we board the train to Canterlot alright?"

She gives me a nod as I stare at those beautiful violet irises, 'Oh this is going to be a long train ride.' I thought as we both spread our wings and flew toward the train station.

Meanwhile the two dragons, Drobot and Cynder, were perched up in the clouds watching the whole commotion with the purple drake and the lavender alicorn. "It seems something is going down. There is a seventy-five percent chance of things going wrong." said Drobot in his metallic voice. He looked over to Cynder who had a surprised and yet sad look on her face.

"Cynder are you alright?" said Drobot snapping Cynder out of her trance.

"Did she just say James?" asked Cynder in a shaky voice, trying to change the subject.

"Affirmative, weird name for a dragon though."

"Y-yeah it is."

"We need to follow them to Canterlot and make sure he's alright." Cynder nodded as Drobot spread his wings and took off as Cynder just sat there with a sad look on her face.

"James?" Cynder says softly as Drobot hovered in front of her.

"Cynder?"

....

"Cynder?"

....

"SAM!?" boomed Drobot snapping the violet dragoness out of her trance once again.

"O-oh, right sorry." apologized Sam as Drobot nodded and flew off again, with her following behind.

Act 1: A New Escape

View Online

Me and Twilight boarded the train that was departing to Canterlot and took our seats. Surprisingly everyone was ok that a random dragon just so happened to board a train. I wonder if this happens often then since, what I've been told that the train travels all around Equestria. We waited until the conductor walked by and took out tickets and hole punching them before moving on to the next guests.

Once the train started to move I looked out the window and seeing Ponyville get smaller and smaller. "Hey Twi'?" I call to Twilight gaining her attention.

"Yeah?" she answers.

"What's Canterlot like?"

Twilight puts a hoof to her chin, "Well...Canterlot is one of the most upper-class city and only the wealthiest of ponies can live there. Everypony gets along well...if you have the bits."

So long story short this is a pony version of Beverly Hills, "Okay? Then do you think bringing me might be a bad idea then? From the sound of it it doesn't seem like Canterlot ponies would be too fond of a dragon walking into the city. I'll probably get shot after I take three steps in the gate."

Twilight giggled a bit, "I'm sure you'll be fine, since you're with me. I know a lot of ponies there."

"Oh right, you used to live up there did you?"

"Yep! Almost half my life started in Canterlot, from being born, to getting Spike, and to becoming Princess Celestia's student. Where did you live? In the human world i mean."

"Well I was born in the country of the United States capitol, Washington D.C. kind of like you I lived there for most of my life before moving to Richmond at about freshman year in High School."

"Did you ever miss your old home?"

"Actually and surprisingly...no I didn't. One of my best friends, Sam, moved with me and she was my only friend so I didn't worry about missing her, and nothing really exciting happened." I could tell Twilight was giving me a confusing look at my answer but I just ignored it. Even though it wasn't entirely true I did have some memorable events when I lived back in D.C. but it felt like I was more connected when I was living in Richmond.

I'm sure Twilight probably feels the same way, from the sound of the way she explained Canterlot, t sounded like she was happy to leave. Well, I would I couldn't handle being around snot-nosed rich people all the time. Plus she seemed more happier back in Ponyville...wait a second why are we going to Canterlot to see Celestia, again?

"Can you remind me again why Celestia called for me and you? And not just the others?" I ask as Twilight face turned into a serious expression.

"Remember the crystal you gave Celestia?"

Oh God.

"Yeah?"

"Well, from the letter she sent me, Celestia stated that it was acting abnormally, like vibrating and illuminating a bright light for a few moments before stopping like nothing happened except a crack being formed on its surface. Did you know anything about that?"

Oh God NO! I stayed silent for a moment. The truth was I did know that this would happen, but I thought the more far away I was from it it couldn't get any stronger? Or should I say HE couldn't get any stronger. But what was giving him power?

"James?" my head snaps at attention and was met with Twilight with an impatient expression, "Do you know anything about this or not?"

I took a deep breath and let i out, "Twilight, I can't lie to you. Yes I did know." I could tell now she was starting to get angry.

"You knew! And decided not to tell anypony about this!?" she yelled.

" I-I thought maybe if he was far away then he wouldn't be much of a problem plus under Celestia's watch-"

"Wait a minute..him?"

My blood ran cold at the slip up of words "Y-yeah there is another thing too. There may or may not be an evil entity trying to break free of the crystal."

"ARE YOU SERIOUS!" yelled Twilight making me flinch at the sudden outburst. Her face was now a pure red and was now glaring at me, like a mother would scold her child. I felt guilty for what I've done, yeah I should've of told some one, but why didn't I? And now Twilight one of my best friends is now pissed at me.

"Twilight I'm-"

"NO!" she screams at me before turning her body away, "I 'm not talking until we get to Canterlot to see Celestia. I need to cool off."

I let out a sad sigh and slumped in my seat, ignoring the stares of the other ponies were giving me and Twilight. I turned around and looked over my seat to find a brown stallion with a brown spiky hair and a hour-glass as a cutie mark. "Excuse me sir?" I say getting the stallion's attention.

"Yes my good lad?" he answers in a british accent.

"I was wondering how long the train ride is?"

"About three hours why?"

"Oh just wondering." I say in a soft tone before turning back around, I glanced at Twilight who had her hooves crossed and gave a slight 'hmpr' and turned away. I let out a sigh and turned towards the window and watched the landscape speed by. 'This is going to be a long trip' I think to myself.

After about three hours of awkward silence we arrived at the Canterlot train station, and when I say the ride was awkward I mean it was awkward! Everytime I tried to apologize to Twilight she would either ignore me or tell me to back off. I did catch her glance at me a few times but instantly turn away when I was about to look back.

As we walked off the train Twilight was keeping her distance in front of me, I quickly sped up beside her only for her to walk faster in front of me. "Okay, no more playing around." I say to myself as I got frustrated with the silent treatment Twilight was giving me. I spread my wings and glide over Twilight landing in front of her making her stop in her tracks.

"Ok, Twilight we need to talk." I say with a determined expression.

"What, is there anything else you're hiding?" she says with an attitude.

"Look, I know I fucked up about not telling you girls about the crystal and you have every right to be pissed at me. But I thought I was doing something right."

"So you decide not to tell me and my friends that some evil entity is trapped in a crystal that, as we speak, is trying to break out and do Celestia-knows-what! And you thought it was right!?"

"I was just trying to protect my friends!" I snap at her.

"Well, good job at that, because of you, not only is that crystal becoming more dangerous you managed to doom all Equestria as well! My friends and I were just doing fine until you came along! Why don't you just leave!!!" Twilight covered her mouth with her hooves as her expression softened. I myself didn't know what to say, I knew she was mad at me but not to the point where she wanted me gone.

"J-James, I-I didn't mean it.." Twilight stuttered, but I ignored her not out of anger though. She was right everything was going great for the girls, until I showed up and now my dark counterpart is trying to break free and do God-knows-what to Equestria. Maybe I should leave, there'll be better off without me.

"N-no, I get it." I say to Twilight, "You're right I did screw things up. Which is why after I fix this mess I'll leave so I won't cause another."

Twilight's eye then started to tear up "James! You don't have to do that! I was-" I put a claw to her lips silencing her and give her a sad smile.

"Don't worry Twi', I had a great time with you girls for the past few weeks. But if I stay I'll do more harm than good. I'll come back to visit."

"Pinkie Promise?" asked Twilight.

"Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye-OW DAMN IT!" I scream as I poked my eye with my claw causing Twilight to giggle a bit, "We should go Celestia probably wondering what's taking us so long." Twilight nods in confirmation but still has a sad expression on her face, probably still feeling guilty about her wanting me to leave.

Shaking the thought out of my head I walk off with Twilight following me with her head looking down to the ground. "I hope this isn't too bad."

As me and Twilight arrived at the front gates of the castle I was actually surprised that the guards let us in with no problems what-so-ever. I wonder if they've been expecting us? Shrugging off the thought me and Twilight entered the castle and I have to say this was some big ass castle. I mean it didn't really look that big when we were at the train station, but when up close it is a whole 'nother ball story.

We walked through the halls o f the castle and the first thing I noticed was that it had a renaissance look to it. The guards were pretty chill as well, probably because they all had the same expression like the red soldier guys in England. Me and Twilight then came up to two giant double doors, the two guards nodded and opened the doors for us and motioned us to walk inside.

Ahead of us was a long red carpet, and colorful windows on the walls, I glanced at them and noticed that they were actually pictures of Twilight and the others battling what seems to be....well bad things apparently. We stopped in front of a chair, with the one and only Princess Celestia sitting in that said chair giving me and Twilight (mostly me) a serious stare, that kind of makes me want to jump out the window. Putting my fears behind me I take a gulp and try to act like nothings going on.

"Hey Celestia! How's it going?" I greet nervously as now all eyes are turned on me with the same expressions as Celestia's.

"It is nice to see you James, and you too Twilight but I'm afraid we have a serious problem on our hoofs." Celestia answers as she motions the two guards out of the room, "Do you remember the crystal you gave me a few weeks back when you first came here?"

I nod confirming her answer.

"Good, because as I said in my letter to Twilight that crystal has been giving off strange and dark anomalies that even I don't understand. I know you know something I don't about the crystal, James."

I stood there in silence with a guilty expression, "I-I'm sorry, I though since your all-powerful, you could handle it."

Celestia gave me a confused look,"What do you mean?"

Before I could answer, Twilight decided to do it for me. "Princess, what James is trying to say is that there is an evil entity of himself trapped inside of that crystal, and is getting stronger everyday, that's why the crystal was acting weird because it's trying to break free." I wasn't surprised that Twilight explained everything for me, but I was shocked that she said it like it was her fault and not mine. I give her a sad smile as she gives one back. Celestia seems to notice this.

"Is something wrong with you two?" asked Celestia with a hint of concern.

"N-no, we're fine." I lie trying to stay on topic. Celestia gave me an odd look obviously because she didn't believe me.

"Do you know what's making this dark entity stronger?" asked Celestia.

"Honestly, no I don't, which reminds me can't you just use the elements on it and be done with it?"

"The elements only work on a physical being filled with evil, not just evil itself." explained Twilight.

"Then we're in the dark then?"

"Not exactly." started a new voice gaining the three of our attention. As the new comer came in the throne room I noticed that she was also an alicorn like Celestia and Twilight but her coat was a midnight blue, and a mane and tail that flowed by itself like Celestia's but it looked like the night sky. Behind her were two guards with bat like wings, dark blue armor, and grey coats. But I mostly noticed the two guards carrying a glass case that had spider-webbed cracks around it.......and also a cracked covered glowing red crystal inside.

"Allow me to introduce myself dragon. I am Luna, Princess of the night and I believe I have the solution to your problem." explained Princess Luna.

"Sister, aren't you supposed to be sleeping?" asked Celestia.

"Yes, but I believe this is far more important , is it not?"

"If you don't mind me asking, Princess Luna, but how do you know how to take care of the crystal?" I ask as Luna turned her attention towards me.

"I didn't know, but after over hearing you saying that an evil version of yourself is trapped inside this crystal here. Then I knew my suspicions were correct."

"Which is?"

"I...experienced the same problem you are having, where I had a malicious side of myself also, but unlike you I was already consumed of the darkness and had to be cleansed by the elements used by Twilight Sparkle and her friends. But you haven't been consumed yet which means that you can put a stop to this before that can happen."

"Wait...why me!?"

"Because it is your half and can only be defeated by you....you must destroy the crystal."

I give her a look like she was crazy, "But we don't know what'll happen if we do that, I....I mean h-he.....it could escape."

"Then it's a risk we are going to have to take, plus me, my sister, and Twilight Sparkle are powerful enough to handle whatever is trapped inside there."

It seems that Luna wasn't getting the picture. There was a reason why I didn't want to destroy the crystal and the darker version of myself. A reason I didn't tell Twilight and the others, and also the Princesses.

'Is it that if you destroy me you'll be destroyed as well?' said a familiar demonic voice.

'How did you-'

'It's not that hard, we literally share the same mind remember? It's been awhile since we spoke huh?'

'How are you getting stronger, I thought the farther away from me the weaker you got!?'

'You really think that!? Oh James, I get my power from something much more deeper than that.'

'What is it then!'

'Like I'll tell you.'

"James?" I was snapped out of my mental conversation, by Twilight's voice. I looked and saw a concerned expression as well as the two princesses, "Are you ok?"

"Y-yeah, I was just thinking and I'm not going to destroy it." I say earning a gasp from the three alicorns.

"James! You do now that you are endangering lives with this decision." scolded Celestia.

"I know, but I'm endangering more lives if by destroying the crystal frees him anyways." I snap back.

'Ooooh, someone's getting some balls.'

I ignore the scoff. "Be careful to whom you are speaking with James." said Luna in a menacing voice.

"I don't care! I' am not going to endanger the live of the ones I care about by doing something blindly!"

'So that's the real reason why you won't kill me. You have feelings for that Twilight character do you?'

I stay silent.

'Oh my God! You do! To tell you the truth I would have thought you'll get with Fluttershy or that Derpy though.'

I'm still silent.

'Them too!? Oh this is just too good!'

"SHUT UP!" I snap startling the three princesses and make the two guards raise their weapons in defense.

"James, we need you to calm down." said Celestia in a soft voice.

"WHY! SO YOU COULD TRY TO CONVINCE ME TO DESTROY THE CRYSTAL AGAIN NO THANK YOU!!"

'Three.'

"You are really pushing your boundaries dragon!" boomed Luna.

"AND WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU GOING TO DO ABOUT IT!" I yelled back.

"What I have to!" as Luna said that her two guards stepped in front of her their weapons pointed in my direction.

'Two.'

"James, this is the only way, don't do something you might regret." said Celestia again. I noticed that Twilight had been quiet during me and the alicorn sisters argument, what was she thinking about? I shook the thought from my head and focused on the task at hand.

"You will destroy the crystal dragon!" boomed Luna again as her guards started to advance. Was this a threat?

"BACK OFF!" I yell getting in a defensive stance as the guards advanced towards me.

'One'

"James!" I was shocked to hear that it was Twilight's voice this time, "You have to calm down, the crystal is getting stronger because of you! It's because of your emotions-!" Twilight however was cut off to the crystal beginning to hum and glow brightly and start to vibrate violently. The guards seeming to forget about me surrounded the crystal as it glowed brighter and shook more violently.

"Look what you've done!" yelled Luna.

The crystal then shattered into many pieces causing a bright red light to consume the room blinding the six of us. When the light dimmed down the crystal was gone but a dark form of a dragon took it's place and was chuckling darkly.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qJkC-fSeO2E

The dark dragon was an exact copy of me, but had blackish-purple scales, with silver horns, spines, and wings. His blood red eyes staring at us with a mischievous intent. The princesses and I could only stand in shock at how much the dark dragon resembled me even though he was a darker side of myself.

"AH! It's so nice to be out of there." he said stretching out his wings and cracking his neck, "I have to thank you James, I wouldn't have escaped without you, ya' know?" I could only glare at him as he said those words. The two guards acting on instinct charged the dark dragon but only for them to disintegrated by a wave of purple lighting bolts coming out of the dark dragon's maw.

The three of us looked in shock as the dark dragon turned the two guards into nothing but ash at our very eyes. "You princesses really need better guards." he mocked as he blew the dust of the once two guards away.

"W-who are you?" stuttered Twilight in fear.

"Oh come on princess, you're smarter than that!" my darker self said, "I'm James, but more..."

"Like an asshole." I cut in.

"I was going to say powerful."

"Yeah, as if!"

"Well, let's put that to the test shall we? Winner takes the lovely alicorn princess."

He better not be talking about....I feel my rage boiling up inside me not wanting to know who he was talking about, "Which one are you talking about?"

"I think you know that already," he said motioning his head towards Twilight, I could see her take a few steps back from this, "and who knows maybe I'll pay Fluttershy and Derpy for a visit too."

That's when something inside me snapped as my primal instincts took over. I let out a loud roar and spread my wings and rushed the dark dragon, only to be caught by the throat by his claw and smashed into the tiles making them crack. I try to pick myself up but only for a talon to push me back to the ground. I feel my darker self lean toward close to my head and whisper, "I always thought Dark Spyro was a tacky name." he said as he kicked me in the stomach making me tumble across the ground.

"I always liked Malefor better!" he yelled before launching a ball of purple fire in my direction and Twilight screaming my name.

Act 1: A New Battle

View Online

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHRyMcH6WMM

James reacted quickly and jumped out of the way as the purple ball of fire exploded on impact, but he wasn't fast enough as the force of the blast knocked him into the nearby wall. The dark version of himself, or Malefor, chuckled darkly and sent a viscous look toward the purple dragon. The two alicorn princesses taking action spread their wings and flew straight for the dark dragon both firing magical attacks. Malefor then threw up dark purple shield as the magical blasts from the two alicorns bounced off with ease.

When the princesses got close enough to his shield Malefor dropped it and dodged a charge by Celestia making her speed right passed him. He then dodged Luna but used his mighty jaws to clamp down on her left wing drawing blood. The lunar princess wailed in agony as she was spun around and was sent flying in to her sister knocking both of them unconscious.

"And here I thought you two would be difficult, a pity." scoffed Malefor as he put his attention on Twilight and started to slowly advance on the Princess of Friendship as she started to slowly step back her rump hitting the wall considering no escape.

"LEAVE. HER. ALONE!" yelled James as he rammed into Malefor side causing him to skid across the throne room. James growled in anger as he stood in front of Twilight in a protective stance as Malefor picked himself up.

"You're stronger than I expected," said Malefor sending a glare towards James ,"then again we are evenly matched since we're one in the same."

"What do you even want anyways?" spat out James, "You're already free, so what's the point of all this?"

"To prove that I am the superior half," said Malefor, "and that you are just dust in the wind."

"And attacking me and the princesses are going to prove that?"

"Of course."

"But I thought if you kill me, you'll die as well?"

Malefor chuckled at this, "Who said anything about killing you? I just have to beat you to a pulp!" with that said Malefor charged with his horns and caught James off guard as he rammed in his chest launching him in a pillar causing it to collapse on top of him. Malefor spread his wings and glided toward the downed dragon only to get a magical blast to the side knocking him to the ground. Malefor growled and turned his head and settled his blood red eyes on Twilight with her horn glowing menacingly.

"Looks like the Princess of Friendship wants to play now." the dark dragon said as his mouth glowed a dark purple hue and launched a blaze of violet lightning at the lavender alicorn. Twilight acting quickly threw up a shield blocking the wave of electric bolts as they bounced of her shield.

Meanwhile James burst out the ruble and glanced at Malefor attacking Twilight, acting quickly he stomped on the ground causing a pillar of earth to come out of the tile floor and launched it at the dark dragon. Malefor seeing the hunk of rock at the corner of his eye stopped his attack on Twilight and jumped out the way as the boulder collided into the nearby wall.

James taking the opportunity charged Malefor full speed causing his horns to be engulfed in flames and collided into his side causing him to be launched with a crash out the stained window. Twilight took a deep breathe and fell to the ground in exhaustion, James quickly ran to her side and lifted her to her hooves as she put a fore leg over his neck. Right on cue a squad of guards burst through the throne room eyeing the two princesses on the ground and quickly went to their aid.

One of the guards, also known as Jack Hunt one of James friends, noticed the purple dragon and alicorn trotted up to them with a look of concern on his face. "James is that you?" asked Jack, "What happened to Princess Twilight?"

"Long story short an evil version of myself busted out of his crystal prison and started attacking me and the other princesses, mostly me though. So I blasted him out the window." James answers as he gave a sad look to Twilight, as she gave me a sad smile.

"Well, that sucks."

"Jack take Twilight, I need to finish this." Jack gave me a confused look as I gave him Twilight.

"But there is no way anypony could survive a fall like that."\

"That's right, anyPONY."

Before Jack could say anything else James spread his wings and shot out the window he blasted Malefor from. He felt the Princess of Friendship stir a bit signaling that she could stand on her own.

"Princess Twilight are you alright?" asked Jack.

"Y-yeah I'm good." answered Twilight with a hoof on her head.

"Do you think James can handle....uh...himself?"

Twilight shook her head, "I honestly don't know."

Malefor grunted as he turned himself over, and surveyed his surroundings, he had crashed on some wooden carriage and now had ponies gathering around him. He cursed under his breathe for being caught off guard by his other half, he should've seen that attack coming since they were practically the same.

"That pathetic piece of shit." grumbled Malefor as he rose from the wreckage of the carriage startling the ponies around him. He chuckled at their reaction when I sound from above him caused him to look up. There he saw James descending down with bone breaking speeds that caused the dark dragon to give a sinister grin as he spread his wings and shot off to intercept the purple drake.

The two grew closer to each other until they collided in a mid air tackle and started to descend which both of them trying to get the upper hand. Malefor then grabbed James' neck with his tail and swung him around a couple times before launching him to the ground causing a dust cloud to spew in the air and nearby ponies to scatter in fear.

James shakily got up and immediately dodged a surprised charge from the dark dragon and sent a blast of fire towards him. Malefor threw up a dark shield and deflected the blast before charging again and successfully tackling James. James pushed him off his back swung his claw aiming for Malefor's face only for him to duck below the strike and and push him back a bit with his silver horns. James quickly recovering from the attack used his tail to trip up Malefor causing the dark dragon to land flat on his back.

James was about to make the final blow, but Malefor body then materialized into what looked like a shadow before zooming behind the purple drake and reforming back in to Malefor and launching a ball of fire into James back launching him across the ground and into a nearby carriage destroying it instantly.

James staggered out the wreckage in pain, he was not going to last long sure he got a few good hits in, but Malefor was on another level. James could tell he was injured like him, but Malefor had more energy left to fight while he was exhausted.

"Seems like someone's tuckered out." chuckled Malefor as James just glared at him.

"F-fuck you." spat out James.

Malefor gave an evil smirk and charged the injured dragon and knocked him through the side of a building.

Celestia stirred as her vision began to come back to her she looked at her surroundings and found that the throne room was wrecked, she spotted her sister giving orders to the night guard and watch them disappear out the now broken windows. She couldn't spot James or his darker half anywhere which meant that they too their battle somewhere else.

"Princess Celestia!" shouted Twilight as she ran up to her former teacher with Jack Hunt following behind her.

"Your majesty. are you ok?" asked Jack.

Celestia shook her head, "I am afraid not, this dark side of James is more powerful than we originally thought."

"What are we going to do then?" asked Twilight.

"This Malefor must be destroyed before he hurts anypony else."

"We can't do that!" shouted Twilight as Celestia and Jack gave her a shocked and confused look.

"Why not?"

"Well, while you and Luna were unconscious James mentioned that if he or his darker half is obliterated so will the other."

Celestia was about to answer until Luna cut her off while walking up to the trio, "Good then we can kill two birds with one stone." Twilight gave Luna a shocked expression.

"What!? We can't do that! What has James ever done to you!? You just met him today!" protested Twilight.

"Indeed, I did just meet the dragon today so I have no idea what he is like, plus he managed to free a dark entity that is now wreaking havoc as we speak!"

"But we can't just put them down! It's not right!" Twilight gave a pleading look toward Celestia as she gave Twilight an apologetic look.

"As much as it pains me, I'm afraid Luna is right." sighed Celestia as Twilight took a few steps back away from the group. Jack was also shock, he couldn't do that to James, he was kind of like a brother to him.

"Princesses, forgive my intrusion but i humbly ask that you try to find another way." pleaded Jack.

"Are you questioning my authority Hunt?" said Luna raising an eyebrow.

"N-no ma'm it's just-"

"Then you should carry out the mission, I already sent out a detachment of guards to pursue the dragons."

"Y-yes, Princess." Jack held his head down in shame.

"Mr.Hunt," said Celestia as Jack raised his head to look at the solar princess, "How about you take Princess Twilight back to Ponyville and keep her company." Jack looked back at the lavender princess and nodded toward Celestia. Jack walked up to the Princess of Friendship as she looked back at him. Twilight nodded as Jack gave one back as the two left the throne room heading quietly and slowly to the train station.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fafJE1QC0Ss

James screamed in pain as he was sent into the side of a wall by the dark dragon, he landed on the ground with a thud causing the ponies nearby to scatter away like ants not wanting to be caught in the two dragons path of destruction. James spat out a patch of blood as he tried to pick himself back up only to fall back down.

He was bruised and had cuts all over his body with blood oozing out the broken scales, the pain was unbearable. He watched as Malefor slowly advanced on his position with just minor bruises and cuts, but he didn't have the cocky arrogant look. His expression was dark and serious, and more importantly pissed off beyond belief.

"You are really being a pain." Malefor said as he stopped in front of the downed purple dragon.

"I-I tend to *cough* g-get that a-alot." stuttered James as he swung his claw toward Malefor's face only for him to grab it and with a flick of his wrist snapping a bone in the purple dragons wrist. James screamed out in pain as he clutched his now broken wrist, and then was suddenly grabbed by the throat and was slammed into the nearby wall of a building still pinned by the dark dragon.

Malefor struck James in the stomach causing him to cough up more blood and wail out in pain. The dark dragon then kept repeating the action, loving hearing his counterpart scream in agony begging him to stop. Malefor deciding that his little 'fun' was over let go over James and watched as he hit the ground breathing heavily.

"You are really pathetic do you know that?" said Malefor as James kept his eyes clenched shut, "You actually think that these ponies really like you? Let alone trust you?"

"*cough* W-What d-do you m-m-mean.*cough*" coughed James.

"Come on tell me you don't see it? God you are stupid, are you? These ponies have been playing you fro the start especially those bitch-ass princesses." spat out Malefor, "Why do you think they let you stay in Ponyville with the most powerful mares in Equestria? Why do you think they check up on you so much?"

"'Cause t-thats *cough* what f-f-riends d-do *cough*."

"Friends? HA! Don't make me laugh, the only reason your 'friends' care about you so much is because they think....no....they know that you are still a 'ruthless dragon that'll destroy anything in it's path. Have you noticed that here is no other species around them, no griffons, no minotaurs, no yaks, no buffalo, not even changeling? Because they are a self-centered race that thinks they're so high and mighty."

"W-what about Sp-*cough*"

"Don't even give me 'What about Spike?' those freakin' ponies probably kidnapped the poor kid. How do you even think they got his egg in the first place, and me and you both know how a dragon is over thier eggs so his parents didn't abandon him. Hell even Twilight said she didn't want you around here anymore."

"B-but *cough* h-how d-did yo-?"

"Please James, it wasn't that hard to figure out."

James sat there in silence, thinking about his time here in Equestria. Did ponies here trust him? He always knew that anyone in the upper class were always going to be assholes so he didn't really care about the ponies in Canterlot. But what about Ponyville? Fluttershy did take him in a patch him up, but her friends did attack him and the town did run amuck when he first arrived in Ponyville.

"James," said Malefor, "you don't have to deal with these ponies anymore, join me and together we'll show them who the superior ones really are." James just put his head down not at Malefor's offer but he was actually considering that the ponies really didn't trust him. He looked up and was about to answer but a stray bolt of magic landed in between the two catching them by surprise.

The two dragons turned their heads to see a squad of royal guards advancing on their position. Malefor looked at James and saw him trying to stand but fall back down into the cement. The dark dragon glared at the squad of guards now charging at him, channeling the dark magic inside him he unleashed a dark beam from his mouth to where the guards were standing and formed a swirling vortex sucking them and anything close inside.

The guards screamed in fear and desperation as they were all pulled in causing the vortex to close in to nothingness. Another arrow flew, but the dark dragon noticed it was not aimed for him, but for James. God he hated these ponies, here James was trying to help them and now they are trying to kill him.Instinctively Malefor grabbed James' tail and pulled him out of the way before the arrow pierced his skull.

"W-why are t-they attacking m-me!?*cough*" spat out james.

"Like I said they don't trust you." simply said Malefor as he followed where the arrow came from and saw a couple squads of more royal pegasi in golden armor with crossbows. Malefor grabbed James and swung him over his back before taking off to the skies as the pegasi began to open fire on the two dragons.

Malefor tried his best to dodge his way around the incoming arrows but the heavy weight on his back made it difficult, plus his fight with James from earlier was now starting to takes it's toll as he started to feel tired and soreness on his body. Malefor grunted and looked ahead and noticed he was close to the entrance of the city, he just needed to get outside the wall and then they were home free.

The dark dragon pumped his wings as fast as he can as he soared over the wall. Thinking quickly he turned around in the sky and fired three blasts of purple fire at the soaring pegasi and making it explode in a bright light distracting them. The royal pegasi covered their eyes from the bright purple light, but when they opened them their two targets had vanished without a trace.

The dark dragon soared over of what is the Whitetail Woods and crashed to the ground, he dropped the now unconscious James from his back and checked his pulse making sure that the idiot was still alive. He let out a breathe of relief when he knew he was going to be okay, Malefor grunted in pain when he saw an arrow sticking out of his shoulder. How the arrow managed to penetrate his scales will remain a mystery to him.

The dark dragon with his incredible hearing, then looked up to the sky to see two more dragons heading to his and James' position. He knew they had been following them ever since they escaped from Canterlot. From the looks of it though it seems like they lost sight of him and the purple dragon. Staring at James he let out a chuckle before limping off deeper into the woods.

"We'll meet again James." finally said Malefor disappearing into his shadow form and going into the brush of the forest.

Cynder and Drobot flew over the woods trying to find the duo that barely escaped the struggle that happened at the pony capital. Cynder....no Sam was getting worried, she had not come to term with it yet but if the dragon they had been watching and looking for really is James. She would-

"Cynder? Are you ok?" asked Drobot as Sam shook her head.

"Y-yeah I'm fine." she answered.

"You have answered that the last twenty-one times I asked, and my lie detector says that you are not."

"I-I'm just nervous that's all. I mean what if he is not the one?"

"Ignitus told us a dragon that could control the elements and has purple scales would be the one and my scanners indicate that he has a 95% chance of matching that description."

Cynder nodded as the two kept flying over the woods scanning the floor. "I think I see him!" shouted Cynder as she descended towards the floor, with Drobot following behind. Cynder put a claw over her mouth to hide a gasp as Drobot looked surprised under his metallic mask. There was the purple dragon bruised and bloodied all over and a misshapen wrist.

Drobot walked over to the downed dragon and scanned his body, "I-Is he?" stuttered Cynder.

"He will be fine. 75% of survival, with a 50% of injuries covering his body." answered Drobot.

Cynder let out a sigh of relief, "Good, from the looks of it, for some reason the ponies turned on him, why though? They were just fine when we were watching him in Ponyville."

"This seems unlogical, I suggest we take him to Ignitus since the ponies are not a good place right now."

"Right," said Cynder as she put her head under the purple dragon's body and placing him on her back, "which reminds me what happened to the other one?" Cynder voice had a little venom this time.

"Probably retreated deeper into the woods but we can't worry about him right now." said Drobot.

Cynder nodded as Drobot did the same spreading his wings and taking off, Cynder following behind. While flying she looked back at the dragon unconscious on her back with a sad look.

"Don't worry, just stay golden and you'll be alright." whispered Sam as she and Drobot flew off into the sunset.

Meanwhile on a train back to Ponyville twilight was sitting in the caboose looking out the window with Jack sitting beside her. It has been quiet the entire ride. She had gotten news that the two dragons escaped much to her relief but were badly injured and was last seen heading toward the Whitetail Woods.

Her stomach turned, she didn't know why but she actually felt guilty during the whole situation. Like she could have done more and probably prevented Celestia and Luna from making that stupid decision. Now James is out there somewhere hurt badly, and with him, free and and can do whatever he pleases, Malefor. She has to find him, she just has to, her friends will be devastated, especially Fluttershy, at the news, but she has to tell them. Then she thought of the crusaders...no...she can't tell them they would be ruined and she knows Derpy and DInky were very fond of him as well.

Twilight looked out the window to see Canterlot get smaller and smaller and clenched her eyes shut as a lone tear slid down her cheek.

Act 1: A New Grief

View Online

"-and that's what happened." sadly finished Twilight as she told what happened in Canterlot concerning Malefor and James, which transpired yesterday. Applejack and Rainbow Dash both had scowls on their faces, Rarity had small tears forming at the corner of her eyes, Pinkie with her mane and tail completely straight and deflated looked down at the floor in depression, while Fluttershy........wasn't present.....for obvious reasons.

Twilight didn't want to tell Fluttershy just yet, since she was one of the ponies who were closer to James she believed that she needed to hear this alone, the same goes to Derpy. Jack had been kindly to stay at the Castle until James is found and the dark dragon is brought to justice and NOT executed. He said he will do everything in his power to stop that from happening since he was one of the higher ranks in the guard but he couldn't guarantee the princesses changing their minds.

"Is James still...ya' know." stuttered Applejack.

"When the guard last saw them, yes b-but he was pretty banged up." answered Twilight.

"Why don't we just...let the guard find him?"asked Rarity.

"No! We definitely can't do that!," snapped Twilight, "I-I'm sorry Rarity, but the princesses, mostly Luna demanded that if James or his darker half is seen...they are supposed to be....disposed of on sight."

"Then we'll find him!" said Rainbow Dash.

"I don't think that's a good idea."

"Why the hay not?"

"Think about it Rainbow, James darker half handled Celestia and Luna like it was nothing and almost killed James! What if while we're looking we run it to him? There is no way we could face a monster like that."

"Then what are-" started Pinkie.

"That is why I am going to look for him alone."

"Whoa there sugar cube not alone you're not."

"It's the only way, the smaller the group the more likely I'll be caught by the guards and brought back here or found by Malefor."

"Wait, why would the royal guard come after you?" asked Rarity.

"Well, they're not after me, but the princesses sent a message to me and Cadence to stay within our areas until James and Malefor are found."

"But that doesn't mean you have to go alone."

Twilight sighed in defeat, "I-I guess you're right."

The room was silence for a few seconds before Pinkie broke the awkward moment, "So what now?"

Twilight put a hoof to her chin, what could they do the detachment of royal guards haven't came to Ponyville yet so they have some time. Unless..."Girls, I need you all to stay here just in case James somehow makes it back to Ponyville, I'm going to take Fluttershy and we'll go out to find James."

"No offense Twi' but why Flutters?" asked Rainbow.

"Fluttershy knows James better than all of us, and also she'll be useful when it comes to that stare of hers." Twilight explained as the others looked at each other with worried expressions, before nodding toward Twilight agreeing to her plan, "Thanks girls, don't worry once we find James and bring him back we'll get this mess straightened out. Also if James does come back to Ponyville have Spike send us a letter." With that the girls nodded Twilight nodded and headed toward Fluttershy's house.

Twilight walked on the road outside of Ponyville pondering on how to break down the news to Fluttershy. She was obviously the most sensitive one of the group and she was the closest one with James, which worried her.....wait was she jealous of Fluttershy? Did she have.....for James? She shook those thoughts from her head.

"M-maybe it's just the stress." Twilight said to herself as she made it to the front door of Fluttershy's cottage. She took a deep breath and knocked on the door, preparing herself. When the door opened she was not expecting to see Evelyn, the princess from the deer kingdom in the doorway. 'I totally forgot Fluttershy had company for the time being.' Twilight thought before forcing a smile towards the deer.

"Hi. Evelyn, sorry to bother but I was wondering if Fluttershy is here?" asked Twilight.

"Yeah, she's in...oh! Have you seen James? He was supposed to come by after visiting Mrs.Rarity yesterday but never did."

Twilight gulped, "Th-That's kind of why I'm here."

"O-Oh, I see," stuttered Evelyn finally getting the message, "J-Just wait out here for a second."

Twilight only nodded in response as the deer princess slowly shut the door and no other than Fluttershy arriving a few seconds later with a small smile on her face. "Hey Twilight what brings you here?" asked Fluttershy, until she noticed Twilight's grim expression, "What's wrong?"

"F-Fluttershy I-I don't know how to say this b-but.-" Twilight stuttered as she looked away.

"Twilight? Y-You're scaring me." softly said Fluttershy as she inched away.

Twilight took a deep breath and continued, "It's about James."

Fluttershy felt her heart drop to the pit of her stomach at hearing this and she instantly got nervous and worry for her close dragon friend. WHat happened to him? Is he okay? "W-what about him?" asked Fluttershy with a concerned expression.

This was not going to be easy for Twilight or Fluttershy, taking another deep breath she started from where she and James got on the train, to their argument, to Malefor being released, to the princesses orders to....take care of him, to James and Malefor disappearing in the Whitetail Woods. Twilight watched tears seep down Fluttershy's cheeks, she hated seeing her friend like this so she wrapped Fluttershy into a comforting hug.

"Don't worry Fluttershy, James will be okay." comforted Twilight stroking Fluttershy's pink mane.

"H-how do you know?" Fluttershy asked back.

"Because I'm going to find him and bring him back to Ponyville."

"Th-Then I'm coming too!"

Twilight looked in shock at Fluttershy's sudden confidence, "Are you sure? It could get dangerous really quick."

"I don't care. as long as James is safe with m....I mean us, that's all that matters."

"Okay then, I'll meet you at the train, I'll stop by....somewhere before we leave."

"Alright, I'm sure Evelyn will be okay with the animals while I'm gone."

Twilight nodded as Fluttershy went back in her house to tell Evelyn the news. Twilight let out a sigh and walked off back toward the town.

Twilight stood in front of James' house, she noticed that the last time her and her friends had been here was during his 'Welcome to Ponyville Party' . She walked up to the door and turned the knob, kind of surprised that the door was unlocked, her eyes widened when she saw James' animal companion Bolt laying on the couch, reading the paper, and drinking a cup of coffee next to him.

"Uhhhh..." was all Twilight could say as Bolt looked from the paper and glanced at Twilight. Before Twilight knew it she was on her back being covered in kisses from the white shepherd. Twilight couldn't help but giggle at the contact as she gently nudged Bolt off of her. "B-Bolt, I know you're wondering when James is coming home."

Bolt nodded.

"W-well, James is missing and you been close to him the most and know his scent."

"Bark!" whinned and barked Bolt.

"So? Is that a yes?"

Bolt nodded, "Bark!"

"Great!" with that Twilight walked out the house with Bolt, only to look at the dog in confusion as he pulled out a key from under the matt and locked the door before putting the key back and turning to her and nodding signaling that he was ready to go. 'What was all that?' thought Twilight before shaking off the thought and motioned for Bolt to follow her to the train station which he gladly did.

As the two walked tons of questions were running through the young alicorn's mind. What was she going to say to the dragon when they found him? How are they going to bring him back to Ponyville if everything is going to be surveyed by the royal guard? Twilight was so deep in thought she didn't notice a familiar gray pegasus walking her way causing the two to collide on impact.

"Oops, my bad Princess Twilight." apologized Derpy as she helped Twilight to her hooves.

"That's alright Derpy, but just Twilight is fine." said Twilight as Derpy was petting Bolt, but then gave Twilight a confused look.

"Where's James? Usually he walks around with Bolt."

Twilight froze, she had totally forgotten about Derpy, "W-well, you see J-James had to...uh." Twilight was lost for words as she gazed into Derpy's eyes and even though they were out of place she could still see the worry and confusion in them, "Derpy, I can't lie to you."

"W-what are you talking a-about, Twilight." asked Derpy getting even more nervous.

"James is.....is missing, and being hunted by the royal guard."

Derpy gasped with a hoof over mouth. Twilight continued.

"But me and Fluttershy are going to find him and bring him back....somehow." Twilight finished sounding a little depressed at the last part. How were they going to bring James back? For all they know he's probably not even in Eque-

"I'm going with you." suddenly said Derpy snapping Twilight out of her thoughts.

Twilight shook her head, "Oh no no no no,I can't have you come. It's too dangerous and what about Dinky?"

"My little muffin is in Manehattan for two weeks with my parents, and I may not look like it but I can take care of myself." Derpy paused for a second as a small blush appeared on her cheeks, "P-plus me and James were supposed to m-meet at Sugarcube C-Corner."

Twilight looked at Bolt who looked back at her and nodded, "Alright, but please be care- wait you were going to meet James' at Sugarcube Corner? L-Like a date?" Twilight stuttered getting a little nervous.

"W-well it's not a date, just...uh...a meeting between close friends. Yeah!" Derpy blush deepened as she tried to break eye contact with Twilight. Getting a little impatient Bolt barked gaining the two mare's attention.

"We'll, have to finish this discussion later, but right now we have to meet fluttershy at the train station." explained Twilight as Derpy nodded as she followed her and Bolt down the road of Ponyville.

Fluttershy wiped another tear from her face as she sat down at the bench at the Ponyville Train Station, her thoughts focused on a certain purple drake. How could this have happened? She would ask herself this question over and over without getting an answer and deep down for some unknown reason she believed that it was all her fault.

She let out a whimper as she buried her face in her forelegs and let out a whimper, she didn't know that she could feel this bad over a close friend. Unless....was James something closer to her? She sat up and wiped fresh tears and thought about it, she had never thought about that about anypony before......but James wasn't a pony, he's a dragon. That when the realization hit her like a bat striking a pinata.

She had fallen in love.

With a dragon.

She had fallen in love with James.

She had never thought to be in love with somepony or in her case some dragon. To tell the truth she had never thought she would have feelings for something that she had feared for almost her entire life, but James wasn't like the other dragon's she encountered...no, he was caring, gentle, and always thought about others than himself sure he has his flaws but who doesn't.

Then it was decided, she had to...no...she needed to find James, she couldn't stand the feeling of him not being close to her or worse.

"Fluttershy!" shouted Twilight snapping the Element of Kindness out of her thoughts, she then noticed Derpy and James' pet Bolt walking by her side.

"H-hey Twilight," answered Fluttershy quickly composing herself, "What are Bolt and Derpy doing here?"

"They're going with us to find James, since Bolt has his scent and Derpy has been one of the ponies like you and I that knows him the best."

"That reminds me, what about the other girls?"

"Their going to stay here just in case James somehow finds his way back, plus a detachment of royal guard is being sent to each town to search for James and Malefor, including Ponyville and they won't allow me or the rest of us to leave until they are found." finished Twilight as a loud whistle rang through the station signaling the arrival of the train.

Taking their cue the three ponies and dog boarded the train and took their seats with Twilight sitting next to Derpy and Fluttershy sitting next to Bolt. The three mares sat in silence with twilight gazing out the window, Derpy staring at the floor with a depressed look, and Fluttershy resting her head on Bolt's shoulders, who gave her a loving lick trying to cheer the yellow pegasus up, but to no avail.

The white-shepherd knew what was going on with the three mares, his instincts as a canine gave him more than enough experience to figure that out. It was clear that the three mares had all taken a liking into his savior and friend, but he knew that it would end badly, by someone getting their heart broken, it always does. Bolt watched as the conductor walked down the aisle collecting ponies tickets and move on to the next cart, then going back up to the front and calling all aboard before starting the steam engine causing the train to finally depart to it's next destination.

As the train moved along the tracks the three mares all had their thoughts on the well being of James and hope they could find him before something else does.

'I hope your okay James, so I can tell you how I feel.' thought the three mares simultaneously.

Malefor limped through the Whitetail Woods checking his surroundings for any royal guard that might ambush him by surprise. He was low on energy and needed rest but he couldn't, because of those damned ponies. At least his counterpart James was still alive, he had to admit he was afraid when those other two dragons that found him, but from the looks of it they weren't there to harm the purple dragon.

Actually if he heard right it sounded like they were watching him with the ponies and their battle back in Canterlot. As long as the idiot was still alive that's all that matters, not like he cared for his well being, it's just that if anything happens to him it will affect the dark dragon as well. Malefor was snapped from his thoughts when he heard the sound of armored guards advancing on his position.

Thinking quickly he jumped in the bushes and waited them out he saw the shadows of what looked like three pegasi, he peeked out through the leaves and his suspicions were correct. There in front of him was three armored pegasi armed with crossbows checking the surrounding area for him and James. Unfortunately for them James was taken by those other two dragons which left him to find a way out of this damn forest and find a way to heal himself. He could be rid of them easily, even with his wounds, but he didn't want to gain the attention just in case more of them were still close by that he didn't know about. Which put flying as not an option assuming they had more pegasi scanning from above

"Sergeant, I don't think they're here maybe they flown out?" said one guard.

"No, one of them looked like it went to Tartarus and back, while the other was losing energy. Probably because of its wounds." the sergeant answered.

"Then they couldn't have gotten far right?" asked the other guard.

"Affirmative," answered the sergeant, "the princess wants them alive so try to aim for the non-lethal spots."

"But didn't Princess Luna want them terminated?"

"Yes, she did but we take orders from Princess Celestia and she wants them alive."

Malefor watched as the other two guards saluted as they and their sergeant went off in a different area. "So the princesses have different legions of guards? That could be useful in the future." quietly said Malefor as he slowly stepped out the bushes not wanting to make a sound. He winced when a branched struck on of his wounds.

"I need to find medical attention fast." grunted Malefor as he kept on walking through the forest.

"Sir! Target has been spotted!" shouted a pegasus guard to his left.

"Shit." cursed Malefor as adrenaline pumped into his legs as he sped off with more pegasi guards on his tail shooting bolt after bolt at him. Malefor tried his best to dodge each one but his wounds were making it difficult to do so, he needed to lose these guys quick speeding up getting enough distance he quickly spun around and launched three lavender balls of flames at the guards pursuing him.

While they were dazed Malefor quickly made a sharp turn and made a quick jump in another bush, panting heavily and sweat dripping into his cuts and scrapes making them burn. Malefor winced again but kept the volume to a minimum as he heard the clanking of the guards armor go pass the bush.

Taking a step back Malefor exited the bush and continued on, until he spotted a wagon, it looked abandoned but at the same time it looked almost new. Hearing more guards behind him Malefor quickly ran up to the wagon and slowly opened the door and walked in letting out a sigh of relief that it was abandoned.

His eyes widened at all the magical themed decorations inside, hew saw a a counter with cabinets, hopefully filled with food and supplies. He let out a chuckle when he saw a bed as he slowly limped over to it and collapsed on top of it and instantly let sleep take over him.

Not noticing the door of the wagon wide open with a familiar blue unicorn mare with a surprised expression on her face.

Act 1: A New Awakening

View Online

A sudden crash woke Malefor from his slumber as his senses and adrenaline kicked in making him leap out of the bed and get in a defensive stance with purple embers fuming out of his maw. He observed the surroundings of the inside of the wagon and noticed a pan with hot water spilled on the ground. He heard the sound of heavy breathing to see a light blue unicorn mare with light,purple irises, and a silver mane and tail.

She had an expression of fear plastered on her face, but also worry. The dragon was confused why the unicorn would be worried about him she should be worried for her own safety. Malefor dropped his defensive stance and just now noticed the bandages that was now around his body, he took another glance at the spilled water on the floor of the wagon and put the pieces together.

'Was she...actually helping me?' thought Malefor.

After deciding that this unicorn was not hostile he decided to break the silence, "Who are you?" he asked as the mare was snapped from her shocked state.

"W-What?" she stuttered.

"You heard me. Who are you? And what are you doing here?" replied Malefor, he already knew why she was here, from the looks of her hat and cape and the design on the exterior of the wagon it most likely belonged to her but you could never be so sure.

"I-I am the Great and Powerful Trixie," she answered trying to regain her composure, "and you have trespassed onto my domain!"

The dark dragon only chuckled at the mare's attempt to be the superior one here, "Domain? Heh, don't make me laugh, I've seen sea sponges with better living spaces than this."

"And who do you think you are insulting Trixie!"

'Oh great, one of THOSE people' Malefor thought rolling his eyes, "I would watch you tongue if I were you. You are scolding a powerful being if you didn't know and I could kill you with just a flick of my wrist if I wanted." Malefor hope she would call the bluff because inhonesty he was to injured with his fight James to do anything and he didn't know how powerful this....Trixie was.

"Ha! You really take the Great and Powerful Trixie for a fool!" 'Damn it'

Trixie continued, "You were barely conscious when Trixie found you in her wagon. You were lucky enough Trixie was generous to give you medical attention and not call the guards, who seem to be looking for you dragon."

Malefor growled, "My name is Malefor, not dragon and what makes you think I needed help? And why did you help me anyway? You know you could probably get a reward if you turned me in?"

Trixie paused at the statement and looked away from the dark dragon, "That is for Trixie to know and for you to find out.....Malefor. But I will tell you that Trixie is turning over a new leaf and trying to be somepony she doesn't want to be."

Malefor noticed her expression softened, "So you made some mistakes in the past that you're not proud of?"

Trixie didn't answer.

"Listen here unicorn, I don't particularly care about what you did. Whatever happened, happened and there is nothing you can do about it," Trixie turned around and gave Malefor a slight scowl, "but at least you're doing something about it."

Trixie was shocked at the dra- Malefor's change of tone, "What do you mean by that? Have you done something as well?" asked Trixie taking a seat in front of Malefor eyeing his bandages. She was curious how he gotten his wounds, especially since he was a dragon, since it would take a huge amount of force to take even one down.

"All I have to say is that I had a fight in Canterlot and escaped." simply said Malefor before turning around and heading back for the bed.

"There has to be more than that. Trixie demands a better explanation!" said the showmare as she stomped her hoof on the floor of the wagon.

"Well too bad, that's all you get. And stop doing that."

"Doing what?"

"Talking in third-person. It's getting damn annoying."

"This is how Trixie talks!"

"Well then, looks like somebody needs to be taught proper english," said Malefor as he climbed back into the bed as one question swam through his mind. Why was he still here? Yeah he was seriously injured, but being with this mare is a risk. Growling under his breath he got into a comfortable position and was ready for sleep to take over him.

KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK

The dragon and the unicorn froze at the sudden loud knocking at the door, most likely the guards found the wagon and wanted answers. Acting quickly and ignoring the pain that his body sent him Malefor hopped out the bed and opened his mouth as purple electricity sparked inside. Trixie for the most part was surprised at the dragon's ability. Their wasn't that much information on dragons but who knew that they could perform magic?

Snapping from her thoughts as she saw what the dragon was about to do she teleported in front of the dragon and shook her head panicky only for Malefor to harden his glare, which Trixie did back and pointed to a random box. Getting the point Malefor rolled his eyes and dropped his stance and walked over to the box and hopped inside cursing under his breath.

KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK

"Give Trixie a minute!" called out Trixie before throwing on her hat and cape. SHe then used her magic to open the door as she was met with two royal pegasi guards, with their usual serioe expressions.

"We are sorry to interrupt ma'm, but have you seen anything strange lately?" asked one of the guards.

"Trixie does not understand, strange?" innocently asked Trixie.

"There is a fugitive on the loose and we have information that he is hiding somewhere in this forest. Ma'm if you know anything we need to know it now." sternly said the other guard. Trixie now was starting to get nervous, if she lied then she would be in very great trouble, but at the same time if she gave up the dragon who knows what they would do to him.

Even if Malefor is rude and not so caring for others feelings , she believed that anypony could change. She did after all.

"N-no sirs. Trixie doesn't." stuttered Trixie as the guard looked to his companion and nodded.

"Alright ma'm we'll leave you be." simply said the guard before motioning his partner as Trixie closed the door and let out a sigh of relief hoping she made the right decision. That was easier than expected-

"We have to go!" shouted Malefor bursting out the box startling Trixie.

"What do you mean? Those guards don't expect a thing. Thanks to Trixie." responded Trixie.

"Idiot, they didn't believe you. They only left to get reinforcements, they know I'm here."

Trixie paled, oh she was in for it now. Malefor growled and looked around the wagon, "How do you work this thing?!" he yelled.

"Calm down, Trixie simply uses a spell to pull the carriage to my destination of choice."

"Then get to it! Who knows when those guards are going to be back."

Trixie merely rolled her eyes at the dark dragon and ignited her horn as the carriage started to move slowly before picking up speed and started to rush through the Whitetail Woods. Malefor looked out the window to see the guards arriving at the location they were in before taking to the skies.

"Impressive, but we still have company." stated Malefor.

"We? Trixie is the one that did all the work!"

"Whatever, where are we heading anyway?"

"I have a show scheduled at Appleloosa. So we'll be heading there."

"Show?"

"Of course, Trixie has her own magic show and was one of the most famous showmares around."

"Was? Let me guess is that the mistake you did?"

Trixie nodded, "Trixie does not want to speak of it, but I recommend you get some rest so your wounds can heal."

"That's probably the best thing you said since we met." joked Malefor earning another scowl from Trixie as he climbed back in the bed and got into a comfortable position for his slumber. Once she heard the snoring from the dark dragon she let out a deep breathe and removed her hat and cape and placing them on a rack.

How did she get in this mess, if she would've just called the guards this wouldn't be happening. Now she is probably a wanted fugitive for harboring and helping a criminal, but she knew that Malefor wasn't all bad was he? She didn't know why but she saw something within the dragon when he woke from his slumber. He could've killed her at anytime they were talking or could've escaped while she was distracting the guards. Yet he didn't, she was alive and he was still here.

Shaking the thought from her head and deciding to think about it another time she walked to a closet and pulled out a spare blanket and pillow before placing them on the ground of the moving wagon and cuddle to a more comfortable position before closing her eyes and letting sleep take over her, hoping that this situation would blow over soon.

Five days later

The three mares and dog known as Twilight, Fluttershy, Derpy and Bolt continued their venture through the Whitetail Woods in search of their lost 'friend'. The group was getting tired and was about to lose hope. It had been days of them searching high and low, they had encountered a few guards but thanks to Twilight being a Princess she was able to pull some strings.

They heard about the dark dragon Malefor being spotted not too long ago, to their shock, but was kind of relieved when they found out that he escaped the woods. Now they were walking along the path hoping to find any signs of James. Twilight was in the front while Fluttershy, Bolt, and Derpy was at her sides. She looked back and could tell that they were exhausted, Derpy and Fluttershy had bags under their eyes and twigs sticking out their manes, while Bolt was sleeping on Fluttershy's back.

Twilight had thought about it and felt like giving up but refused to give in, but what if something happened back in Ponyville? What if the map called her and Fluttershy? Would they ignore it and keep searching for James or return to Ponyville? Not to mention Derpy having to take care of Dinky. She let out a defeated sigh in defeat as a lone tear slid down her cheek. She didn't know why but she kept blaming herself, she kept thinking if she could've told James how she felt back on the train, then this could have been avoided.

The purple alicorn stopped causing Fluttershy and Derpy to stop as well, "G-Girls I d-don't know how t-to say this, but I think it's time we go back."

Fluttershy's and Derpy's eyes started to have sorrow built up inside them, "W-What do you mean?" asked Fluttershy quietly not wanting to wake the white shepherd puppy on her back.

"Y-Yeah?" added Derpy.

Twilight took another breath, "I-I'm sorry, I know James means alot to you two but-"

"You don't know anything!" shouted Derpy causing Twilight to flinch and waking Bolt, "you're the reason why he's gone! If it weren't for you in Canterlot he'll still be here!" Derpy then started to sob as Fluttershy put a comforting hoof on her back looking at a stunned Twilight who was about to end up in the state. Bolt noticing this also hopped off Fluttershy's back and went over and nuzzled Twilight's leg.

"It's ok Twilight, Derpy's just tired." said Fluttershy.

"B-But," stuttered Twilight "what if she's right. I could've did something."

"Twilight from what you explained to us their was nothing you could do."

"No! It's my fault, if I just old James how I felt him about him....I...he...." Twilight started to cry as Fluttershy now had a worried look and a tightness in her chest.

"How you f-f-feel?" squeaked out Fluttershy.

"W-wait, what?" added Derpy, and to be honest Bolt was kind of curious also.

Twilight turned from the girls, "W-well I...sort of had feelings toward James. I didn't know how to tell him and because of that we are in this mess right now." Twilight noticed the sniffling that came from behind her and turned around to see the two pegasi pawing at the dirt with their cheeks flushed and wiping tears from their eyes. Why are they acting like this?

"Girls? W-What's wrong?" asked Twilight wiping the tears from her eyes as well.

"W-well," started Derpy, "I have feelings for him as well."

Fluttershy nodded, "M-Me too."

The three mares sat in awkward silence none saying a word as they just stared at each other with blank expressions with only one thought going through their mind.......that James was theirs and nopony else. Twilight let out an awkward cough gaining the two mares' attention. "W-Well," she started, "I-I th-think we should head b-back to P-P-Ponyville."

Fluttershy nodded, "I-I agree. Derpy?"

The grey pegasus only nodded as Twilight and Fluttershy gave her one back, Bolt decided to jump on Twilight's back this time and curled up and went back into his slumber. Twilight liked the attention from the puppy it was seeming to calm down her nerves, but only a little bit. The three mares then walked back to where they came in silence not saying a word with their heads hung low in depression. They had failed to find James and the dark entity, Malefor, was out on the loose somewhere in Equestria. Not to mention that the three all had their hearts set on the purple drake.

It was going to be a gloomy and awkward trip back to Ponyville.

Two weeks later

I slowly open my eyes and then instantly shut them from the brightness of the sun's rays, trying again I managed to get my eyes open as my vision starts to focus making me glance at my surroundings. The first thing I noticed was that I was in a room, it wasn't a hospital room but just a regular one with a dresser, closet, and what looked like a bathroom.

"I really need to stop almost dying." I say to myself as I lean up in the bed and to my surprise all my wounds were healed, despite the soreness, I felt pretty good. How long was I out? With the wounds and injuries I had it should've taken forever for them to heal. The real question was where I was, the last thing I remembered was being in Canterlot and fighting.....Malefor.

I growl at the thought of the name, but who brought me here? That's when the memories started to flow back into my mind, Malefor had rescued me from the royal guard that, to my unknown knowledge, started attacking. I get why they would attack Malefor, but why me? Did they know that I was trying to help? The last thing I remembered was me passing out on the dark dragon's back. Did Malefor bring him me here? Or did someone find me and took me in?

"There is only one way to find out." I say to ,myself again before slowly getting out of the bed, right when my claws touched the floor I instantly wobbled and fell flat on my face, "Shit." I cursed to myself as i wobbled back up to catch my balance I grabbed the side of the wall to keep myself upright and made my way over to the window. I opened the shades and was shocked to what lay before me.

There beyond the window was a massive city with dragons......lots and lots of dragons roaming the streets and the air. From the looks of it, the place I was in was sitting on top of a nearby hill overlooking the city. I then noticed the gigantic palace in it's center, what surprised me the most thought was that the dragons weren't colossus like the ones the ponies described, but about my height or even smaller.

"I'm definitely not in Equestria anymore," I say to myself as I turn from the window and stepping from the wall feeling the blood rush back through my limbs, "then where the hell am I?" I perk up when I heard the door open revealing two dragons I never thought I see in my life. There right in front of me were the dragons Drobot and Cynder. Since I was a huge fan of the Spyro Saga and also played that Skylanders game (I just wanted to play as Spyro, if you're wondering).

"Cynder, how many times do I have to process it to you? He is not waking-" The dragon known as Drobot was then cut off as the both of them just stared at me with shocked expressions, well Cynder was I didn't know about Drobot with the cybernetic mask he wore. Deciding to break the silence I just waved and gave the friendliest smile I can and try to act like I don't know of their existence just to not make things weird.

"Sup?" I say snapping the two dragons out of their trance. I didn't expect to be tackled to the ground in a crushing bear hug.

"I'm so glad you're okay!" she cried as I could only look at the purple dragoness in confusion and slowly patted her head not knowing what to do.

"Uhhh, yeah....me too. If you don't mind getting off, your kind of crushing my ribs."

Cynder blushed a bit and slowly got off of me as I stood back up, "S-sorry, I'm just glad that you finally woke."

"Which reminds me where am I? How did I get here?"

Drobot decided to come in the conversation, "You're welcome for restoring your physical health." he said with a sarcastic expression.

"Oh yeah, sorry I'm just confused how I got here."

"There is no error between that, I one hundred percent understand of being in a strange place. To answer your questions we'll start off with introductions, I am known as Drobot, this here is Cynder. We were the ones that found you and brought back to the country known as Thedas where you were comatosed in this room for about two and a half weeks."

"Wow, straight to the point are you?"

"You have no idea." said Cynder, "B-But would you mind telling us your name?"

Should I tell them my real name? The ponies didn't mind but what about other dragons? It's better to be safe than sorry. There was something about Cynder's eyes though, I couldn't place my finger on it but it's like I seen them before but I can't remember where. A cough brought me back to my thoughts as Cynder and Drobot was looking at me with impatient looks.

"Spyro!" I say quickly before regaining my composure, "My name is Spyro."

The two dragons glanced at each other with confused looks and then nodded before focusing their attention back on me. I was started to get nervous Cynder started to advance toward me with a determined expression plastered on her face. "Tell me.....Spyro," she started making me even ,more nervous at the way she said the name i gave them, "Are you from around here? And don't lie to us, we'll know."

I gulped and nodded, "No I'm not from around here."

"Did you know who we were when we came in?"

"Y-yes."

"Alright, last question do you know who I am?"

"Yes, y-you're Cynder."

"Well, yes and no. But do you know who I am?"

"I'm afraid I don't understand."

"Seriously!?" the sudden outburst caused me to flinch back, "You really don't remember me? I knew you were oblivious sometimes but this is ridiculous!"

"I'm sorry but I have no Idea what in the hell you are talking about."

Drobot put a claw on Cynder's shoulder which she instantly pushed away, "Maybe it's not him Cynder." said the cybernetic dragon trying to calm down the angered dragoness. She let out a sigh and turned towards the door with a sad expression.

"And here I thought you were golden." she said quietly before walking towards the doo- wait what did she just say?

"Wait!" I called out stopping her in her tracks but she didn't turn around. Was it really her?

"S-Sam?" I hesitantly say, to my surprise she turns around slowly with tears flowing down her cheeks. She rushed over to me and clung on to me for dear life as he sobbed into my chest.

"I-I thought I l-lost y-you J-James." she cried as I rubbed her back. I glanced over to Drobot who had a smile on his face.

"It's okay, I missed you too. How did you get here?"

She broke the embrace was about to answer before Drobot cut her off, "All will be answered soon, Spyro or in this case James. But right now we need to get back to the Oracle." Drobot then walked out the door with Cynder following him and me following her as we walked in the hallways of the giant place we were in.

"Oracle?" I asked.

"Yeah," added Cynder wiping tears from her cheeks, "He's the one that owns the mansion."

"Oh, and I guess he wants to ask me some questions?"

"Affirmative." simply said Drobot.

We walked through the halls of the mansion until we arrived at the large double doors, it kind of reminded me of the ones in Canterlot, but instead had carvings of what looked like ancient chinese dragons on the door. Drobot opened the door and entered as Cynder or Sam gave me a wink and followed him in. Only to come back to pull me inside also after noticing that I didn't follow.

The first thing I noticed was the maze of books that were stacked on giant shelves. "Oracle! He's awake!" called out Cynder.

"Is he now?" said a familiar voice that I knew too well.

"No fucking way."

My assumptions were made correct when a colossal dragon came walking around the corner with orange scales and spines. He had a smile on his face when he laid eyes on me. I still couldn't believe it was him, first me turning into Spyro, then Dark Spyro or Malefor, Cynder or Sam, and even Drobot. But I never expected him.

"Greetings young one I am known as the Oracle, but you can call me Ignitus."

Act 1: A New Meeting with More Royalty

View Online

I stood their with my mouth almost touching the floor I couldn't believe that I was standing in front of Ignitus! The orange dragon chuckled as I got an elbow in the side from Sam snapping me from my trance. Man I must look dumb ass in front him right now.

"H-hello," I stutter, "I'm-"

Ignitus held up a claw cutting me off,"There is no need for that, I already know who you are....Mr.James."

I blink in shock, "So....you know that-"

"You are really a human? Yes I do."

"But how?"

"You can thank Miss Sam, she was the first to come here."

I glance at Sam with a another surprised expression as she gave me a wink. Man, this is almost more shocking than when I arrived first arrived in Equestria. I wonder if she ended up in Equestria like I did? Or did she end up somewhere else? I'm going to have save that for later.

"Does any other dragon's know about us?" I asked.

Ignitus shook his head, "Only a few, that being the dragons in this mansion and the two rulers here. I have been told that you've ended up in Equestria and lived with the ponies for quite sometime."

"Yeah, that's right. Me and the ponies were pretty chill, but-"

"The turned against you."

"Yeah, but that's the thing I don't know why? But believe me not all the ponies are that way."

"Don't worry," Ignitus replied as he turned and eyed the books on the shelves behind him, "Sam and Drobot here has been watching your stay in Equestria and has reported back to me with everything that has happened. I must say though I am interested in this darker half of yourself or Malefor."

I let out a quiet growl at the mentioning of that name, if it wasn't for him I wouldn't have been in this mess, but at the same time I wouldn't of known that Sam was still alive. Damn, life sure works in mysterious ways. "Yeah I got my ass kicked pretty bad."

"Indeed but enough of me, I'm sure you want to how came to be here and expect me to have the answers." I nod, "I'm afraid that I do not know how you or Sam came to be on this world. But I can tell you about where you are right now."

"It's better than nothing."

"You have a...strange personality, but putting that aside, you reside not in Equestria now but the country home to the dragons called, Thedas. I'm sure you probably heard from the ponies that we are aggressive creatures meant to hoard gems out of greed, which is only partially true. Like the ponies there are three kinds of dragons, there are the brutes who uses their greed for power which they control when they are younglings, the wyrms who have no wings and could either work become commoners or guards for the royal eternals, and the lastly the elementals who are the rare kinds that can use magic to control one of the six elements."

"So kind of like the Elements of Harmony?"

"In a way, but these elements consist of fire, water, earth, tech, darkness, and lastly magic. Sam here is an elemental of darkness while Drobot is an elemental of tech. But you James are special."

"But I'm not special, I've never been special."

"And you are okay with this?"

"Well, kind of. It's just that I was always the guy who was invisible to everyone else ya' know."

"I understand where you are going James. But Here you are special, because unlike Sam and Drobot here who can only control one elements you can control all of them."

"Yeah, I kind of saw that coming."

"But your element of darkness has somehow been separated from yourself taking a form of itself calling itself Malefor." I watched as Ignitus stroked his chin. I myself was trying to process the news I have been given, so it turned out just like the Spyro games or Skylanders I am some important dragon destined to do....something. Until a thought came into my head.

"Hey Ignitus."

"Yes?"

"Can I transform?"

Ignitus pondered on this, I looked to Drobot and Sam who had curious looks as well, "Yes, you can, but as you are now, I'm afraid you are not well experienced to achieve that ability yet."

"And Malefor, if I fuse back with him-"

"You'll become even more powerful."

"Oracle," stepped in Drobot, "I think it will be optimistic if James would be introduced with the others. Maybe they could train him to use his elements better."

"I agree," added Sam, "James needs help controlling the elements or all of our work would be for nothing."

"What's that supposed to mean?" I ask, kind of offended.

"Do you want a repeat of your.....fight, in Canterlot."

"Good point."

"We are going to have to do that once we return," commented Ignitus, "I already sent a message to the royal eternals of his arrival and they are both eager to meet him. I will tell the others to get ready for his training while you two take James to the royal eternals, but before you leave James do you have an alternative name?"

"Why can't I use my own?"

"Like I said only the royal eternal and the dragons in the mansion know who you really are for a reason. I f the public knew they would all ask questions and one wrong answer could turn into conflict. Which is why Sam took the name Cynder."

"What about Spyro?"

"Perfect, I suggest you leave now."

The three of us nod and give our thanks before walking out of the library, as I followed the two elementals a worried thought crept in to my mind. How are the others back in Equestria? How was Bolt? Did they even miss him or were they set out looking for me? And if so did they work things out with the guards?

As we walked out the mansion, my assumptions were correct we were on a plateau of some sort overlooking a large city with a giant palace in its center. Now that we were actually outside, I could actually see other dragons flying above the city or going about their day down below. I wonder what these royal eternals looked like? So far every dragon, excluding Spike, I met was a fictional character from Earth. Maybe it's Akatosh and Alduin from the Elder Scrolls series, or maybe even....

"Spyro are you ready to proceed?" asked Drobot snapping me from my thoughts.

"Yeah," I answer, "just thinking about some things."

I felt Sam put a hand on my shoulder as I stare into those familiar green eyes, "Just try to keep up." she says with a smile.

I give a loud laugh and wave her off, "Yeah right you know I dominated track and the football team back in high school."

"Yeah, but this is flying."

"Oh, shit."

"Just stay close to us, you do know how to fly right?"

"Of course! What you think I sat on my ass the whole time I was here?"

She gave out a cute giggle and gave a light punch on my shoulder, "Let's just go before the royal eternals get impatient."

With a nod I look in shock as the boosters on Drobot's wings ignited causing him to shoot off in the air , Sam spread her wings and followed behind with me doing the same with my wings and following behind Sam. I had to admit I was squealing like a fangirl on the inside for me flying with some of my favorite characters, plus one of them was Sam.

I looked in amazement as we soared over the city, passing and greeting other dragons that flew by and also observing the wyrms down below. I noticed though that their wasn't that many brutes, maybe because most of them is in Equestria. The city kind of reminded me of Washington D.C back home. Which reminds me what was this city called?

"Het Drobot." I called out.

"Yes?" he answered.

"What's the name of the city?"

"It is called Denerim, the capital of Thedas, this was the first city to be established by dragon kind and has never been taken over. Out of all the wars we've been in Denerim is always the last city to stand and the one to finish the battle."

"Oh, you know I only asked of the name right?"

"I assumed you wanted to know about the history of Denerim?"

"Well, yeah that's cool, but I could just read that in a book."

"Fair enough," replied Drobot, "We've arrived at our destination."

I simply gawk at the palace's size, this thing was easily three or four times bigger that the one in Canterlot. With four towers at each corner and one taller one in the middle. There were also platforms on each side with dragons landing or taking off( If you guys want a description just think of the Jedi Temple). The three of us land on one of the platforms leading inside the temple and the first thing I notice were the guards advancing on our position, they had no wings but were definitely bigger than us and were wearing what looked like scale like armor. These must be wyrms ignitus was telling us about.

"State your business." ordered one of them.

"We request an audience with the royal eternals." stated Sam, "The oracle, sent a message alerting our arrival."

The guard looked at us for a good minute before nodding, "Alright, you two," he ordered as two guards gave a salute,"escort them to the their highnesses."

"Yes sir!"

With that said the two guards motioned us to follow them as we complied without hesitation, I glanced around the platform to see a couple of other dragons giving me weird looks. I try not to make contact but I had to admit it was making me feel uncomfortable. As we walked across the guards opened two doors leading into the palace.

We walked the halls for several minutes until we were met with two giant golden doors, what is it these doors? I put the thought behind me as one of the guards gave a loud cough gaining our attention. "The royal majesties have been very stressed lately and is not in the mood for things that might anger them." said one of them.

"So try not to get them pissed." said the other as we nodded and walked through the doors. As we walked through I could only gawk at the two large dragons we slowly approached. For starters they were both gigantic and, probably the size of a large building back on Earth, the one on the left had a green upper body like a human with a muscular build and sharp black horns coming out of his shoulders with two antenna on his head, while the other was also green but his build was more like a ancient chinese dragon with long whiskers and antler like horns.

I swore I seen these two from somewhere before but I couldn't put my finger on it, a slight cough caught me from my thoughts as I turned to see Drobot and Cynder bowing. After feeling like an idiot I quickly bowed with them.

"You may rise." said the bulky dragon in a booming voice as we all did as he commanded.

"You must be the one known as James, am I correct?" said the other.

Building up my confidence of not trying to screw this up I stepped forward, "Yes."

"Ignitus, has told us of your arrival and that you are of the same origin as Sam here. Allow us to introduce ourselves I am Porunga and this is my little brother and co-ruler Shenron." said the one known as Porunga...wait....Porunga? Shenron? I knew these guys looked familiar! I can't believe I didn't even notice the snake like appearance they had and the dragon ball necklaces they both had......wait dragon ball necklaces!

"Ahem." coughed Shenron snapping me from my thoughts.

"Oh! Sorry...sirs....I was just deep in thought."

"That is understandable, but back to the matter at hand Ignitus already discussed about where you are and about our culture?"

I nod.

"Then it is only a matter of your training."

"You might not know it yet,"started Porunga, "But you are really important and have unimaginable power, and without your darker half Malefor you won't be able to fulfill your full potential."

"So that means I have to find Malefor, but he's somewhere in Equestria?"

Shenron shook his head, "You are not ready to face Malefor yet, you are too inexperienced and would surely be killed as to finding him you will know."

"For now you will stay with Ignitus and his group,", said Porunga, "I'm sure you'll get to use to what they do."

"What do they do?" I ask turning to Sam and Drobot, "Are you guys some kind of special group?"

"You could say that," started Sam. "We technically go around Equestria and bring back any intel that is important to the royal eternals. Either it being threatening or useful to Thedas."

"So you are like a special ops team?"

"You could go with that option." stated Drobot.

"So that means I can go back to Equestria if I wanted to? That's great! I could go see if the girls are alright! And try to sort this mess out-"

"What are you talking about, James?" suddenly said Shenron.

"Well, I don't know if you already know, but I made friends, close friends, with some ponies back in Equestria. Hell, I even have dog, but I just..... don't know what went wrong. Me and Celestia was cool when we first met, her sister..uh..Luna wasn't too fond of me, but the guard just attacked me while I was trying to help them."

"This was during your battle with Malefor, correct?" asked Porunga.

I nod.

"And you said the alicorn known as Luna was not taking a liking to you when you arrived" added Shenron as I nodded again, "Then I see why the guards would attack you."

"What? You do?!"

"It's only an idea yes, long ago me and the Princess of the Night were.....close. Porunga didn't approve of her at the time but me being young I didn't listen."

"What happened?"

"During those times, problems were at every corner. Conflicts with uurks threatening and invading dragon villages while our economy started to dwindle and so did our forces. I decided since I had a strong relationship with Princess Luna then she would give our nation support in those dire times. The Equestrians obviously being the peaceful nation as they are agreed."

"So....what went wrong?"

"I did. After a while our nation was able to push back the invading uurks and strengthen our forces, signaling Equestria that their help was no longer needed. But that was when I got a message from Luna looking for help against a spirit named Discord."

"This is probably not the best time to mention that I'm also friends with Discord." I thought as I shifted uncomfortably.

But I turned her and her sister down, even though yes our military force was getting stronger, it was not enough to face another deity like Discord. The risks were too high, but that was when me and Luna became distant and she began to change. She would never come to royal meetings if me and Porunga were there. When she became the dark being known as Nightmare Moon she had threatened us to join her or our country would be wiped off the map. So we had no choice, but to stand against her and help Celestia banish her to the moon, she came back as the Luna you saw in Canterlot, but she still had a growing....dislike...towards most dragons especially me."

"It is not your fault little brother," comforted Porunga as he put his hand on Shenron's shoulder,"You did what you had to do, if not we wouldn't be standing here today."

"So the only reason why the guards attacked me was because Luna had a personal vendetta!?"

"It does make logical sense," commented Drobot, "If I am correct, since you and Malefor are the same being; if something.....happens it affects the other, am I correct?"

"Yeah," I answered, "Which is probably why he saved me from the guards to keep me alive."

"Affirmative, my theory is she probably somehow figured out if one dies so does the other and took action. But it doesn't make sense I studied Equestrian government, one sister must always gain the approval of the other before committing an order that serious, unless..."

"Celestia approved it. Damn."

"I'm apologize but we are going to have to cut this meeting short," said Porunga,"Me and Shenron have other meetings to get ready for."

The three of us give our thanks to the royal eternals and exit the throne room. As we walked through the halls of the palace my mind was on why would Celestia approve of something like that? Maybe she just wanted Malefor captured and the guards took me as him? No that can't be it, they were just fine when I entered the palace and me and Malefor are two completely different colors.

"James," said Sam, "Are you doing okay?"

"Yeah," I answer, "It's just been a long day with me trying to process all this new information."

"Well, when we get back to the mansion I suggest you get some rest, because tomorrow we are heading straight into your training."

"That's sounds like a good idea...hey Sam?"

"Hmmm?"

"Can you really make a wish with those dragon balls?"

Malefor watched from a distant as Trixie performed her show, after escaping the guards from the Whitetail Woods they managed to end up in a town called Appleloosa. It reminded him of a Western village, they had parked the wagon near by until Trixie decided that they needed more money or bits as the ponies call their currency.

Now here he was, in a cloak far behind a crowd of ponies as Trixie performed her so called tricks, he didn't see what the problem was when she told him that most towns drove her off. Most of her acts was actually pretty impressive, plus this was the first time of him actually seeing her perform out of the two weeks of staying with her.

Luckily during that time most of his wounds and injuries had been healed, but he didn't know why he decided to stay with the mare. They should've went their separate ways when he was back to full strength. Malefor was snapped from his thoughts as a stray guard walked passed him, luckily with the hood over his head the guard didn't notice him.

"Shit," muttered Malefor, "I totally forgot those two bitches has the guard spread out throughout Equestria looking for me and James."

Malefor heard the sounds of applause as he glanced toward the stage to see Trixie bowing, he couldn't help but chuckle at how dramatic the showmare was. To his surprise also, he and Trixie actually managed to get along, maybe that's why he decided to stay with her? She was a powerful ally and could be useful if he ran into a situation, which would be rare.

Once the crowd dispersed, Malefor for took the opportunity to walk to the stage to rendezvous with Trixie who had just used her magic to transform the stage back into the wagon. She had a successful grin on her face as she hummed a polite tone.

"Someone's in a good mood." commented Malefor making Trixie jump in surprise.

"Don't scare Trixie like that!" complained Trixie.

Malefor rolled his eyes, "Nice to see you too."

"We assumed you enjoyed Trixie's show?"

"Meh it was alright."

Trixie face flustered in anger, "Alright!? That was the best performance Trixie put on in Celestia knows how long and all you can say is 'alright'!?"

"Hey don't get mad at me for stating my opinion."

"Hmpf, fine since you think my shows are 'alright' you get to be my assistant the next town we arrive too."

"What!? Fuck no!"

"Trixie demands an assistant or she'll call you Male for the rest of the trip to the next town!"

Malefor growled under his teeth, he hated that nickname she came up for him and she would always use it to get under his skin. "Fine I'll be your stupid assistant." he muttered as Trixie gave a grin in triumph.

"Perfect, now come inside Trixie will make lunch and please hurry before one of the guards notices you." stated Trixie as she walked inside the carriage. Malefor was about to follow when he swore he saw green light flash behind him, he turned around and got in a defensive stance and was met with two royal guards, a mare and a stallion. Malefor was about to blast them into dust until one of them put up a surrendering hoof.

"Hold on! We are not what you think we are dragon." said the mare guard as Malefor's stance didn't change a bit.

"Fade," said the stallion guard, "I don't think he going to listen to us looking like this."

The mare guard nodded in agreement as Malefor not looked at the two in confusion, he was surprised when they were both engulfed in a green flame. Malefor watched as the guards that was just standing there in front of him a second of go were now replaced with bug-like ponies with holes in their legs wings, and a horn, he assumed the mare was the one with the long green mane flowing down her shoulders as the stallion didn't have one at all.

"What the fuck?" was all Malefor could say.

"Sorry for the scare," said the mare, "The ponies don't welcome our kind so we had to take disguises in the meantime, my name is Fade and this is my brother Shift."

"Malefor, if you don't mind me asking, why don't the ponies like having you around."

"We're called changelings," stated Shift, "And the reason why is that we our food source is mostly love."

"You feed on love?"

"Yes, but when food started to go low that's when we started to get desperate."

"We tried to ask Celestia for help," added Shift, "but she said that we were too much of a danger toward her subjects and denied our request, so we attacked Canterlot."

"You're kidding?"

"No, but sadly we failed and were literally flung out of Canterlot, with half of us surviving the blast, while the rest are starving."

"So why come here?"

"It's better we talk inside," stated Shift, "Before somepony notices us."

Malefor nods and motions them inside the wagon, before checking his surrounding making sure no other pony or guard saw what was going on. He heard a scream from Trixie from inside the wagon signaling that Trixie had discovered the undisguised changelings enter the wagon. He sighed and rubbed his temples as he walked in the wagon, feeling a migraine rush to his head.

"I don't have time for this shit."

Act 1: A New Return

View Online

Malefor groaned as he walked through the door of the wagon and was met with the two changelings with stoic expressions as Trixie was cuddled in a corner shaking uncontrollably and knocking things over trying to get as much things between herself and the changelings. Malefor then looked out the window and noticed two guards who seem to notice the commotion and started headed toward their direction.

Malefor cursed under his breath and moved as fast as the eye can see and covered up the blue unicorn's mouth causing her to sit still. "Trixie, in case you forgot the guards aren't supposed to know I'm here." Malefor whispered in the unicorn ear,"so screaming and throwing shit is not fucking helping."

Malefor took another glance out the window and saw the two guards turning the other way, he sighed in relief and released Trixie who had a scowl on her face. "Malefor, please explain to Trixie why those.....things! Are in Trixie sanctuary!"

"First off this is not your sanctuary it's a damn wagon, second these 'things' came here for help." scolded Malefor.

"And why should we? Those abominations almost took over Canterlot and caused chaos and terror throughout Equestria!"

Fade felt her eye twitch, "It's not our fault! We were starving and had no other choice after Celestia denied us!"

"As if you expect Trixie to believe in such a lie."

"It's the truth," simply said Shift.

"Trixie is not buying it, so you two can get out before I alert the guards."

"Trixie!" snapped Malefor making her jump in surprise, "They are telling the truth and if they didn't they wouldn't be standing here right now."

Trixie looked at Malefor with a shocked expression, "B-but h-how-?"

"Trust me I know." was all Malefor said before Trixie sat on her rump and looked at the changelings with an apologetic expression.

"Trixie apologizes for how she acted, it's just that she was caught off guard by your sudden arrival."

"It's alright," replied Fade, "It's not like it's the first time, but that's not why we're here."

"Then why are you here?" asked Malefor getting impatient.

"You know of our queen, Chrysalis, right?" asked Shift.

"Can't say I do."

"Well after our failed....attempt....in Canterlot, she didn't recover from the blast as well as the rest of us."

"How bad is it?"

Fade closed her eyes and shook her head, "She has a few broken bones including ribs, and internal bleeding."

"And since us changelings are low on the medical supplies to treat them," started Shift, "She's...dying."

Malefor kept a neutral expression, "Why don't you take her to the hospitals? I'm sure the ponies would be glad to help because of that love and tolerance bull shit. No offense Trixie."

Trixie only grumbled in response as she sent a glare toward the dark dragon.

Fade shook her head again, "Don't let that lie manipulate you. The ponies are anything but loving and tolerating, there might be some who question it but they don't do anything about it."

"So taking the Queen there was out of the question," added Shift, "Assuming the ponies would just lock her up and not do a single thing for her injuries."

Malefor had to admit he actually felt bad for the changelings, since he had the memories of James, he knew how it felt to be treated harshly just because you were different. He didn't particularly care for this Queen Chrysalis though, if she knew that her subjects, let alone her entire race, were starving then she should have known a full scale invasion would be a dumb ass idea.

But now these changelings would have no leader and will be destined to die and reduce until extinction. With the memory of them fading away like the dust in the wind. But what could he do? Did they think that he could heal their queen? If so they're going to be hell of disappointed.

"What do you need me then?" asked Malefor.

"Fade gave her brother a glance as he nodded in approval, "Well, a little while ago she heard about what happened in Canterlot between you that other dragon and the princesses. She was very impressed and tasked me and Shift to find you two, but when we heard that the guards lost track of the other dragon we set out to find you instead."

"Again, why me?"

"Because you're the only one powerful enough for the job. Malefor we need you to be the new ruler of the changelings."

Malefor was taken back at this. Him a ruler? He would have said yes right then and there but he had no idea how to rule a country. And why choose him and not some other changeling for the job?

"Why not pick another changeling?" asked Malefor.

"That is something.....we cannot tell you, I'm sorry. Queen Chrysalis left out that information." replied Fade.

"Excuse Trixie for the interruption," stepped in the showmare, "But if Malefor does become ruler, what does that make Trixie?"

Malefor raised an eyebrow and glanced at the unicorn mare, "Are you serious?"

"Yes, Trixie is serious! If one of Trixie's friends gets to be royalty so does she!"

"Who said we were friends? You're more like an annoying ass roomate."

Fade watched with interest as the two argued back and forth, "I swear you two act like a married couple."

Malefor and Trixie froze at the comment and turned toward the female changeling with their faces a bright crimson. The two quickly separated now noticing how close they were getting, but their faces still having angry expressions. Fade could only giggle at the two reactions as Shift still had a stoic expression plastered on his face.

"What do I need to do." simply said Malefor trying to ignore the comment from Shift.

Shift smiled in response, "First we need to get you to the Queen she would want to speak to you personally."

"James...Hey get up big boy."

I awake to the sound of Sam's voice, I slowly open my violet eyes to meet her green ones with a bright smile on her face. I sit up in the bed that I arrived in and let out a yawn. Sam giggled and sat next to me on the soft mattress.

"How was your sleep?" she asks.

I make one final stretch before answering, "Wonderful, I haven't slept that well in forever."

"That's good," I notice her expression fell a little bit," how's the others back...you know."

"Oh, you mean Earth," I say with a sigh, "The guys have been doing good, and your parents.....they don't talk to us anymore. But other than that everything has been going well."

"You know it's not your fault about what happened."

What does she mean? It was my fault, if I had just mind my own business we would have never have been here in the first place. She.....died because of me and I had to live through that.

"H-how?" I stutter, "You would've still been alive if I hadn't just listened to you and left that dick alone. And when I see you here.....it just makes it worse."

Sam put a claw on my shoulder as at look at her trying to fight back tears, "James do you feel that," I nod, "I am very much alive and to tell you the truth.....I don't think I ever died."

I look at her with a confused expression, "W-what do you m-mean?"

"Well, as the doctors were working with me one of them introduced himself as...what was it.....'The Merchant'."

I freeze at this, he was there!? How did he get there in the first place? And more importantly what did he want with Sam?

Sam continued, "He told me that he could help me get better, but told me when I recovered I wouldn't be able to walk again. I asked him if there was another way because I didn't want to put you through a situation like that. Unfortunately there was and....."

"There's no need to keep talking." I say softly knowing where this was going. I pull her into a comforting hug and we stayed there for while before separating, "Look on the bright side though we get to see each other again."

Sam smiles and wipes the tears from her eyes, "That reminds me, are we still...um..."

"I...don't know," I say with a light blush,"For now let's take things slow and just be friends. Then we'll see where we'll go from there."

She nods as she gets off the bed with me doing the same, "Come one," she says, "Drobot is waiting to introduce you to the others, plus we kind of have a little surprise."

"Surprise?"

She gives me a wink before walking off, "You'll see."

Sam leads me to the backyard of the mansion and the first thing I notice was the trees and hedges with different varieties of flowers blooming from them. There were also statues and cobblestone paths that stretched throughout the garden, as we walked through it I took a few glances at Sam who still had a smile pasted on to her face.

What is with her?

"What has you so happy?" I ask as she pays no attention to me.

"Oh nothing." She replies, "Hey James."

"Yeah?"

"Tell me about the friends you made in Equestria. What are they like?"

"Well, six of them are the Elements of Harmony-"

"You know the elements!"

I tilt my head to the side in confusion, "Yeah, I thought I mentioned them."

"You mentioned you knew OF the elements, not that your friends with them."

"Well I am, but getting back to your question there's Pinkie Pie who I think is related to one of the Looney Toons characters, then there's Applejack she owns a farm outside of Ponyville where she and her family grows apple for the town. Rainbow Dash is part of the weather control in Ponyville and probably the fastest pegasi around and Rarity owns her own boutique where she makes different kinds of clothes and all that fashion stuff. Then there's.....Fluttershy, well in her name she's...uh...shy she's the one that took care of me when I first got here and is one of the kindest mares you'll ever meet.

"She even let me adopt a dog too and to tell you the truth out of the six she is the only one that I'm....used to ya' know. Oh and can't forget Derpy and Dinky now. Derpy is probably the most adorable mare there she has this positive and cheery vibe about her, not as much as Pinkie Pie though, and her daughter who hangs out with three more fillies named Applebloom, Applejack's sister, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle, Rarity's sister are just as cute. I love those little rascals."

I let out a sad sigh, but Sam seemed to have heard it, "You really miss them don't you?" she asks.

"Yeah, I...just don't know how they're doing without me. Me and derpy were supposed to meet up, but as you can see that's not going to happen. I definitely can't forget-"

"Drobot are you sure about this?" said a familiar as my eyes widen and my heart starts to quicken with joy.

"TWILIGHT!" at that moment I spread my wings and flew at full speed through the gardens following the source of Twilight's voice. I could hear sam's faint voice from behind me either telling me to stop or slow down but I pay no heed to it, the only thing that was on my mind was finding Twilight.

"Did you hear that?" came her voice again, I let out a loud chuckle as I figured out the source of the voice behind a couple of bushes as I burst through them, but only for my smile to drop when I was only met with Drobot and two other dragons that I was familiar with. The one that was currently glaring at me had a dino shape figure covered in brown scales, with a clubbed tail and small horns on his head. The other was a white dragoness with a diamond shaped head, blue eyes and what appears to be actual crystals in her wings and on the tip of her tail.

"Hello, you must be James." said the white dragoness as I just stare at her, "excuse me, are you okay?"

"OH! U-uh.." I stutter hiding a blush, "Sorry. it's just you sound like a very close friend of mine."

"That's fine," she replies as she sticks her claw out, "My name is Flashwing and this is my mate Bash. Drobot here has told us a lot about you."

"Indeed," stated the Dino like dragon known as Bash, "Your not what I expected you to be."

I give Bash an uneasy look, "What do you mean by that?"

"You're far too...thin. I could break you like a toothpick, no wonder you've been getting your ass kicked."

"Okay, who the hell do you think you are? You don't know nothing about me!"

"Does it matter what I know or not?"

"Well, no...."

"Then drop the subject."

Flashwing gives Bash a disapproving look before glancing towards me, "Don't mind him he's just grumpy because of the trip."

"Trip?" I ask before Drobot covers her mouth with his claw.

"I recommend we wait for Sam to arrive before we start explaining." stated Drobot as on cue Sam came in for a landing almost out of breath. She sends me a glare for my little stunt from earlier as I give her an apologetic smile and rub the back of my head trying to give off the most innocent look I can.

"Thanks for waiting up." Sam says in a sarcastic tone.

"Sorry," I apologize, "So......what are we doing here anyways? Aren't I supposed to be training?"

The four dragons look to each other before nodding as my curiosity begins to grow, "James." started Drobot, "Me and Sam noticed how you adapted so well in Equestria so much that we decided to make a request to Ignitus."

Sam decided to step in, "Besides you training here we asked for us to take you back to Equestria."

My eyes widen as I feel the butterflies go crazy in my stomach, "And what did he say?" I ask in eagerness.

"Ignitus approved," I was about to celebrate when Drobot stopped me, "but on one condition, due to your......status.....you will need to keep a low profile and...." he pauses.

"What?"

"To keep away from the ponies you grown connections to." simply stated Bash without a care in the world.

"Wait, I can go back to Equestria but I can't even see my friends!?"

"It's for your safety," added Flashwing, "trust me I don't like it either but it's too risky. Think about it if the guards somehow found out you were alive where would be the first place they look?"

I have to admit she was right, if I did just go back to Ponyville no doubt here will be a squad of guards waiting for me and I can't fight them off with most ponies probably not trusting me after the stunt back in Canterlot. Maybe if I'm gone long enough until things calm down a bit I could probably work things out with Celestia and maybe try to get Luna off this whole vendetta against dragons.

"Alright I see what your saying," I say softly, "but what about my training?"

"Me and Flashwing will be your teachers," said Bash, "we'll be teaching you the basics of how to use your elemental powers properly and also close quarters combat and agility."

"While we're doing that," added Flashwing, "Drobot and Sam would be making sure that the no one recognizes and disturbs us during our exercises, plus trying to gain information on where this Malefor creep's whereabouts are. We'll be staying with an old friend in a city called Manehattan we already contacted her signaling her of our arrival where she'll house us for the time being."

I nod in confirmation, "So when do we leave?"

"A few hours," stated Sam, "We'll be taking the train to Manehattan."

After the few hours had flown by like dust in the wind Drobot, Sam, Bash, Flashwing, and I went to meet Ignitus before we departed. The orange dragon Oracle had told me and Sam to use our dragon names that we adopted instead of our real names for safety precautions. He then wishes us good luck and sends the five of us on our way.

We reached the train station where we requested 'special' tickets for transportation to Manehattan, Equestria. Once the train arrived the first thing I noticed was that it wasn't a passenger train but one of those trains that carries supplies and goods. We climb on and give the dragon conductor our tickets before he motioned us to a cart stacked with crate with who knows what inside.

Once the train starts to move I glance at my surroundings to see the Flashwing and Bash snuggled together and in, what looks like, a deep conversation, Drobot was sitting by the wall staring out the window, and Sam was.....fast asleep next to me. I could only sit there as she leans her head on my shoulder snoring lightly.

I groan now knowing the new situation I was in, how was I going to tell sam about me having feelings for Fluttershy, Derpy, and Twilight? Oh god, am I getting feelings for Sam too? I hear Sam purr in my side I glance at Bash who had Flashwing sleeping next to him also and gives me a wink before breaking contact.

With a defeated sigh, I decide to just think over the complication after a good nap. I lower my head and out of instinct I drape my wing over Sam's body pulling her closer as we both drift off to sleep.

After I feel the train come to a complete stop after the three hours, I see Drobot, Bash, and Flashwing waiting by the door. I look over to see Sam still asleep I shake her lightly waking her and tell her that we made it back to Manehattan.....Equestria. We get up to meet the others and I spot flashwing wing giving out what looks like trenchcoats and hats you see in those black and white detective films.

"Here put these on," she says, "It'll cause less attention to be on us, especially from the guards."

I nod and take the coat and hat and put it over my body and place the hat on my head, with the others doing the same. Once we all had our new attire on Bash opened the doors and the sounds of the city started to feel my ears. it kind of reminded me of the Manhattan back at home but this one was....cleaner.

I also noticed that we weren't in a train station like back in Thedas, but a train yard. Which was perfect for us to enter the city undetected. "Come on follow me," started Flashwing, "My friend shouldn't be that far from here if she still lives in the same place."

With a nod we follow the white dragoness out of the cart, I glance bask to see the dragon conductor in the caboose before giving me a thumbs up and starting the train before leaving. I glance back in front of me to see the rest already entering the city I quickly catch up to the group as we made our way on the sidewalk, watching ponies walk by going about their day.

I could only smile at the sight.

Because I was back.

In Equestria.

And I was going to be ready for Malefor.

Act 1: A New Lesson

View Online

The streets of Manehattan were exactly as I expected it to be, the sounds of business soaring through the air as ponies went about their day. The five of us walked the streets and surprisingly no one stopped and question the five mysterious figures in trench coats and hats. I still think it's amazing that these ponies are still standing.

It seems though they are still on the search for me and Malefor because every few minutes I would see royal pegasi fly through the air scanning the skies or royal unicorn and earth ponies patrolling the streets looking for anything out of the ordinary. Like I said it's amazing we weren't caught yet, I glance at Flashwing who was leading the group, as she was scanning the buildings.

Sam was beside her while Bash was on the other leaving me and Drobot in the back. "Hey Drobot." I say gaining his attention.

"Yes?" he answered back.

"Who is this 'special friend'? I noticed that you guys never mentioned her name."

"Like most of the majority of the population in Equestria she is a pony, but unlike others she is not the first to judge. She has always been there when we needed her every time we came here and she has not failed us yet."

"So there have been other times you came to Equestria?"

"Affirmative, it is our job to see what happens here and make sure it is not a threat to Thedas."

"Okay? So what's her name?"

"It's-"

"We're here!" cheered Flashwing cutting off Drobot. We now stood in front of a fancy, expensive looking apartment complex. Flashwing motioned us inside after making sure we weren't followed, the inside wasn't really that great as the outside though. It just looked like a regular hotel lobby. We walked up to the front counter where a fancy looking mare was looking over a list of names. The mare looked up and gave us a big grin.

"Hello, what may I help you with?" she asks.

"We're here to see 'the designer'." said Flashwing as the mare nodded in understanding.

"Oh, yes she's been waiting for you five to arrive for some time. Take the elevator to the seventh floor, room seven-two-seven."

"Thank you."

The five of us follow the mare's instructions and take the elevator to the seventh floor and got to the room, seven-two-seven. Flashwing tells us that it's safe to take of the jackets and hats and we did so. Sam then knocks on the door and after hearing hoofsteps come to the door it opens to reveal a white earth pony mare with a short blue mane and tail in a sailor type outfit.

"Flashwing! Cynder! You made it!" she exclaims pulling Flashwing and Sam into a hug.

"It's good to see you two Coco." replied Flashwing.

"Yeah, it's been too long." added Sam.

The mare looked to the other three of us and gave us a nice smile, "It's good to see you again too Bash and Drobot." the two dragons nodded as she spotted me she gasped and put a hoof to her mouth and stare at me with shock.

"Uhh, is something the matter?" I ask.

"Y-your the new dragon?" she asked hesitantly

"Yeah? I thought you guys said she was cool with us?"

"N-No it's not that, it's just that...you're the dragon from Ponyville and Canterlot. I...I just didn't expect the new dragon to be you."

"Don't worry, it's fine. That's kind of one of the reasons why we're here to clear this misunderstanding-"

"After your training of course." cut in Bash, "It would be useless if you go on dying on us while trying to clear your name."

"Well in that case, " added the white mare as she held out her hoof, "My name is Coco Pommel, I'm a fashion designer here in Manehattan, but when it comes to dragons I help them 'get around'."

I took the mare's hoof and shook it with a smile, "Nice to meet you Coco, my name's J-oof!" Sam elbows me in the side and shakes her head, "Uh..sorry..my names Spyro."

"In that case, why don't you five come in." recommended Coco as we nod in confirmation. As we walk in the first thing i notice was that the apartment looked so much like a hotel room! The bead room had two moderately sized beds where the girls will be sleeping while the living room had a pull out bed and a couch for me, Bash, and Drobot. I was about to ask why Bash and Flashwing couldn't sleep together but decided to leave it alone for it wasn't my place.

I could tell everyone was exhausted from the trip as Sam and Flashwing instantly crashed on their bed in the other room. Bash had told me I should get some rest too, even though it was in the afternoon I would need to be at full strength to start my training for tomorrow. I had noticed that Drobot already claimed the couch, which left me and Bash to share the pop out bed, which the dino-like dragon already occupied and was already asleep.

I was about to join him until I felt a tap on my shoulder and I was met with Coco with a guilty expression on her face. "Hey Coco, what's wrong?" I ask with a hint of worry.

"Can I talk to you for a second." she asks solemnly.

"Sure?" I didn't like where this was going as I followed her in the kitchen.

"I-I don't know how to say this," she starts as I feel a wave of nervousness hit me, "I know that you're friends with Princess Twilight and the other elements."

"Okay? Doesn't everyone in Equestria know that by now?"

"But that's just it, I'm pretty close to them too," I stay quiet at this, "Mostly to Rarity, since we trade letters back and forth, but I just wanted you to know that they haven't given up on you and hope that you come back soon. They couldn't keep their search due to most of the cities and towns under constant surveillance and fear of risking your safety."

"R-Really? Oh no! What about Bolt?!"

Coco giggled, "Don't worry, he's staying with Fluttershy for the time being, but he's not the same without you."

"I figured that." I say softly with my head down.

"Oh, and before I forget," I bring my head back up at this, "In Rarity's most recent letter, she said that when you come back you should work things out with Twilight, Fluttershy, and a mare named Derpy. She also said that the crusaders and Dinky think you're on some kind of vacation so they won't sneak off trying to find you."

I chuckle at this, "I guess they really do miss me huh?"

Coco nods.

"I really wish things didn't have to go this way, but....it was worth seeing Sa- I mean Cynder again."

"Oh, so are you and Cynder mates?" asks Coco.

"What? No no no...well...I don't know actually, it's just we haven't seen each other in a while and I've just been having mixed feelings about not just here but others as well."

Coco's expression seems to understand to where I was hinting at as she nods and then gives me a surprise hug she pulls away as I give her a surprised look."What was that for?" I ask.

"You needed it. You're too stressed out and blaming yourself. Isn't it good enough that the ponies you met want you back safe?" I nod, "Good, and I'm sure you, Fluttershy, Twilight, Derpy, and Sam will figure something out. I don't know if dragons herd but it's a good place to start in my book."

I give Coco a smile as she smiles back, "Thanks, I needed that."

"It's no problem, if you ever want to talk again don't be afraid to ask." she says as I follow her out the kitchen and into the living room.

"Sure thing." she nods and walks into the bedroom as I climb on the pull out bed with Bash trying to keep my distance. Judging from the multiple snores him and Drobot were already resting. As I close my eyes I whisper one thing before dripping off into dream land.

"Don't worry girls, I'm almost home."

'The Badlands'

Malefor and Trixie sat silently in the wagon as the two changelings, Fade and Shift, were tugging it to their destination. It was challenging trying to get out of Appleloosa without being suspicious, but thanks to the changelings disguises and quick thinking they were able to leave the town before the other ponies got suspicious.

The dark dragon was now sitting on a chair and was gazing out the window thinking about what Fade and Shift had told him. Him leading a whole race that was doomed to extinction? He had to admit it was a bit tempting, but he had no idea how to lead others that was expecting the best of him. His mind then went over to a specific purple dragon, his other half. No doubt James is somehow figuring out a way to find him to finish what they started in Canterlot.

He growled as he thought about those damned Princesses, it just doesn't make any sense why would they attack James when he was trying to protect them? None of this made any sense, there has to be some explanation. Wait...was he actually worried for James? No that can't be it, yeah he's a dick to almost everyone he meets, but he's not evil....is he?

"Are you alright?" suddenly asked Trixie snapping Malefor from his thoughts.

"Fine." growled Malefor as he kept his gaze out the window watching the wasteland before him.

"Trixie does not believe you. She knows that look."

Malefor turned his head and gazed at the blue unicorn, "If it makes you leave me alone, I'm just having second thoughts about this 'leading a whole civilization' thing."

"What makes you say that? If it was Trixie in your place, she would be honored to be recognized."

Malefor rolled his eyes, "Well as you can see I'm not 'Trixie'."

Trixie frowned at this, "Tell Trixie, why are you having second thoughts."

Malefor stayed silent and turned his head, until it clicked into the showmare's mind.

"You're afraid aren't you?"

The dark dragon stayed silent.

"Tell Trixie, why are you afraid?"

"I'm never afraid. Why would I be?" spat out Malefor.

"Trixie doesn't know, you tell her."

Malefor gazed at Trixie, why was she so nice all of a sudden? He gazed into lavender irises falling into a trance, he hadn't even noticed how beautiful they were until no-..Malefor shook his head from the thoughts, where did that come from. Malefor took a deep breath and gave in.

"It's not that I'm afraid for myself, I'm afraid for them. I have never been...important, where people depend on me. All I am is just a lost half of another being that makes mistakes everywhere he goes. People see me and the first thing they see is an ugly beast.....a monster. Maybe their right."

Malefor looked to the ground and clenched his eyes, he hadn't even noticed that a lone tear was falling down his cheek, that was until he felt something warm against him he opens his eyes to see Trixie giving him a surprise embrace. Malefor with a confused expression slowly pushed the mare away as she had a looked of disappointment on her face.

"Malefor...you are only a monster based on your actions. Trixie understands that now, she has seen another side of the changelings that she hasn't seen before. They need you Malefor."

The two stood silent, as they both looked at each other red irises gazing into lavender ones, they were snapped from their trance when the sound of a knock on the filled the wagon. They hadn't even noticed that they stopped, Malefor with one last gaze at the blue unicorn head towards the door and opened it as he was met with Fade and Shift.

"What is it? Why have we stopped?" asked Malefor.

"We made it to the hive, but we have to hurry Queen Chrysalis tends to be....impatient." stated Fade.

"Wait," stepped in Shift, "I suggest that the unicorn stays behind."

Malefor gave him a questionable look, "Why is that?"

"The other changelings might not be 'okay' with her arrival."

Malefor glanced back at Trixie, "It's okay Malefor Trixie can stay behind and look after the wagon."

"No." simply said Malefor before turning back to Shift, "She is as much of danger out here than being with us."

Trixie looked shocked at this, Malefor the dark dragon that didn't care about anything was worried about her? "But-" started Trixie only to close her mouth when Malefor sent her glare.

"Just stay close to me Trixie and you'll be fine." softly said Malefor as Trixie nodded.

Shift gave a worried glance to his sister as she nodded, "Fine," finally said Shift,"But if she does something stupid it's on you."

With that said the dragon and unicorn follow the two changelings out the wagon and was met , in front of them, a cave with lanterns lit inside and two changeling guards posted out front. What Malefor noticed was that these guards armor were some form of chitin, he had to admit if had a fight with these guards he would probably have less chances of winning than the Canterlot guard.

As the four approached one of the changelings held up it's hoof in a stopping manner. "Halt, Fade, Shift. We were told that you were only too acquire the dragon not....a unicorn." spat out the changeling as him and his companion advanced on Trixie

Before the two changelings could answer Malefor stepped in front of them, "She is with me." stated Malefor.

"No pony is to set hoof in this place, she either stays out here or put in the dungeons."

Malefor could feel the fear radiating off of Trixie as she hid behind him, "Like I said she stays with me," growled Malefor as purple flames began to spew from his mouth giving himself an intimidating look, "It wasn't a request and if one of you bugs lay a hoof on her, I'll make you beg to be extinct."

The two changelings with fear not on their faces slowly backed up, "A-alright you may proceed."

Fade and Shift motioned Trixie and Malefor to follow them in the low lit cave. The blue unicorn couldn't help but stare at the dark dragon as they walked, why was Malefor protecting her all of a sudden? Ever since they left Appleloosa he had acted different, she shook the thoughts from her head as she followed the dragon's advice fro before and stayed as close to him as possible with her coat touching his scales. She almost felt her cheeks warming up from the touch and she swore she saw him shift uncomfortably as well as they walked deeper and deeper into the changeling hive not expecting what awaits them.

Manehattan

I awoke slowly from a sudden shake of my body, I slowly open them to see Bash standing over me with an impatient look on his face, I look to the clock and noticed that it was four o'clock in the afternoon. I lifted my self up off of the make shift bed and noticed that Drobot was gone and judging from the silence the girls probably went out.

I let out a big yawn and looked at Bash, "Hey Bash, what's up?"

"What's up is that it's time for your training." said Bash with a snort.

"But I thought you said we were training tomorrow?"

"It is tomorrow."

I looked at him with shock eyes, "Damn! Did I really sleep that long!?"

"Yes, now hurry up and meet me on the roof."

With that said Bash turned and left out the door leaving me sitting on the bed. Was I really that tired from yesterday? And if I was why didn't no one try to wake me? I guess it doesn't matter now. I get off the bed and head to the bathroom for a quick shower, i didn't have a toothbrush so I just put some toothpaste on my finger and swished it around in my mouth.

"Now I just need to meet Bash.....wait, did he just say roof?"

Why Bash wanted to train me on the roof was beyond me, I spotted the dragon looking over the edge of the building gazing over the loud city of Manehattan. I still chuckle at the name, but it seemed that Bash heard me and turned around with an annoyed look on his face. "Why do I have the feeling I'm going to get my ass kicked...again." I whisper solemnly.

"Took you long enough." said Bash as I walked up to him, "The way your training will go I'll teach you how to actually fight at close range, then Flashwing we'll teach you how to use your abilities, Drobot will teach you the basics in flying, and finally Sam will teach you how to reach your full potential. Any questions."

I shake my head.

"Good now step forward with your right fore arm." he demanded as I do so like an idiot as Bash takes me by surprise and flings me over his head and smashes me in the ground. I groan in pain I I slowly get o my feet glaring at the now smirking elemental.

"WHAT THE FUCK WAS THAT FOR!" I scream rubbing my now sore back.

Bash laughed, "Take this as your first lesson with me. Never take your eyes of your opponent. Plus it's time I toughen your scales up. Now come at me with all you got and remember no abilities."

"Fine if that's how your bitch-ass wants to play!" I charge and lean my head down ready to ram into the earth elemental, only for him to side step out the way and tip me up making me land flat on my face. I growl in anger and use my wings to my advantage and shoot my self towards him I throw a punch which he simply dodges. I turn and try to smack him with my tail only for him to grab it with his mouth and squeeze causing me to yelp in pain as he spun me around and sent me flying through the air.

I catch myself in mid-air as I look to my now bleeding tail, I wince as it now starts to sting but ignore it I shoot off again toward Bash who just stands there waiting for my attack. At the last second I fly around to his back hoping to catch him off guard but was met with a fist to the snout. I was now sent skidding across the roof of the building and stopped right at the edge. It's a miracle that the royal guard hasn't spotted....wait a minute.

"Why are we up here!" I scream out to Bash.

"What do you mean?" he answers back.

"The royal pegasi are patrolling the skies tight now! So why in the hell are we on the roof!"

"Calm down, the pegasi are not a problem. They don't patrol the skies this time of day."

"What? That's stupid! You're just fucking with me."

"Trust me, I thought the same thing."

Before I could answer again I felt the air escape my lungs as I rock the size of a basket ball collided with my gut. I hunched over and sent a glare at Bash. I land face first on the ground as Bash is laughing at my pain. "Fucking bitch! I though you said no powers!" I yell slowly getting to my feet.

"I said for you not to use any powers, not me." scoffed Bash.

"Oh, fu-" I didn't finish my statement as a pillar of rock shot up from under me, bu thanks to my instincts and adrenaline coursing through my vines at the moment I was able to move out the way at the last possible second. I watched as Bash kept stomping on the ground making pillars rise up at my location as I kept on dodging and weaving.

"You can't keep this up forever!" I heard Bash yell.

He was right I can't keep doing this forever and judging by the damage I already took and me almost out breath I was done for. That was until I gave a glance at the pillars of earth on the roof and gave a sly smirk. At one last attempt I avoid another pillar and jump in front of Bash, he stomps the ground again confirming my suspicions summoning another pillar, to his surprise I ride the pillar up and use the momentum in my limbs and wings to shoot my self toward the earth elemental.

My head collided with his side as he was sent tumbling across the roof and skidded to a stop, I land softly breathing heavily and mostly bruised, I noticed that most of my scales had fallen off and blood took it's place. I watched as Bash stood up with barely a scratch on him, he gave me a smile and nod as he got in an offensive stance as I got in a defensive one.

I charge first with a determination to win, if I am able to get one hit in I can do it again.

I moaned in pain as I was laying on top of Bash's back who gave a light chuckle as we headed back down to Coco Pommel's apartment. I was covered in bruises and had minor bleeding, while the earth elemental just had a scratch on his cheek. "You did good today," said Bash, "I have to admit I didn't expect me to come back like this."

"W-well serves you right asshole," I spat out, "Hey aren't the ponies going to ya' know freak if they see us like this?"

"Oh, don't worry. The ponies in this apartment complex are cool with us, but after Coco moved in they stopped new arrivals because we were afraid that it would blow our cover here."

"How many times have you guys been here?"

"A couple, usually come here for observation, but it's rare to actually get some action."

We stop in front of the door as Bash knocked as we were met with Drobot who had a blank look on his face once he saw us. Which reminds me does he ever take that armor off? And if so when because so far he has always been wearing it even when he goes to sleep. I put the thoughts behind me as I give the elemental a wave.

"What happened to James?" he asked.

"Hehe, boy tool more than he could chew." replied Bash.

"You do realize that Sam will be worried about his condition."

"Bah! Don't worry about it and besides once he heals up tomorrow he'll have stronger scales, which will make him stronger as well."

Drobot looked from me to Bash with a annoyed expression, "Affirmative." was all Drobot said before letting us inside. The girls who were having a conversation in the kitchen and gasped at my beaten body. Sam and Coco helped me off of Bash's back as the earth elemental was dragged by the horns by Flashwing to the other room for a 'talk'. And from the look on her face he was not going to enjoy it.

"You got beat up pretty bad did you." said Sam as she and Coco placed me on the couch.

"Eh, not the first time." I say with a smile.

"Just be more careful next time though, we just saved you and I don't want your ass almost dying on me again."

"Fine, fine." I wave a claw at her as I look in to her green eyes. She let's out a cute giggle and kisses me on the head, Coco smiles at us and walks off into the other room with Sam probably going to see what Flashwing is doing to Bash. I turn slowly to see Drobot sitting in the chair gazing out the window of the apartment.

"Hey Drobot." I call out.

"Yes?" he answered back.

"Can I ask you something?"

"Go on."

"Do you believe in second chances?"

Drobot gives me a confused look, "Why would you ask that?"

I lean my head back on the pillow, "It's nothing just wanted your opinion."

He gives me a blank stare before answering, "I believe that second chances are earned, not given."

"Oh, that's good to know, well I'm going to get some rest."

"Agreed, I should shut down as well."

I curled up on the couch and closed my eyes as I thought of the question I just asked Drobot. He was the smartest and most logical one of the group so I wanted a straight answer. Because my mind was on a certain blue princess, and if what Twilight said was true about Luna then I'll be seeing her tonight.

"If she even comes for that matter." I whisper to myself as I let sleep take over me.

Act 1: A New King

View Online

'Changeling Caves'

Malefor and Trixie followed Fade and Shift through the lit caves being lighted by glowing green torches. The dark dragon could feel Trixie close at his side, he could feel her fear radiating off of her and couldn't help but pity her. He had to admit she is rather cute without the hat and the cape especially when she is not in her bitchy mood. But that's what he admired about the mare, she was not afraid to speak her mind, even if she knows if it will get her killed.

"Malefor." quietly said Trixie beside snapping him from his thoughts.

"What is it?" he asked, with a growl.

"Why did you stand up for me back there?"

"You could have just stayed quiet and left me, but you didn't."

The dark dragon ignored her and kept on walking, Trixie took the hint and stayed quiet for the rest of the way but the same question stayed in her head. The four then made it to an opening of the cave they were walking through, Trixie's eyes widened in fascination as Malefor kept a neutral expression at what they saw. What laid beyond the dragon and the unicorn was the biggest cavern they ever seen with a literal city inside it, houses were built along the spires of rock and along the walls and a stone like castle in the back.

"So I'm guessing this is the place." asked Malefor as the two Changeling nodded.

"Yeah, it's not much but we're managing to get by." replied Fade.

Trixie gave her an unbelieving look, "Not much? Trixie is having a hard time believing that, this place is beautiful."

"Thank you, but wait till we enter the city it might look pretty on the outside but it's depressing on the inside."

"As a reminder," started Shift, "Changelings here are nervous about ponies, especially unicorns in the city, So I recommend you stay as close to us as possible."

Trixie nodded as the changelings continued their walk once again with Trixie and Malefor following close behind, they started to pass by houses and Trixie could see what Fade meant. They were small rock like shacks, there not even as big as the houses in Ponyville, she noticed other changelings walk by giving her and Malefor (mostly her) nervous and stern looks. She saw mothers and fathers call their younglings inside as they passed.

Like before Trixie stayed close to Malefor, the changelings probably think that she has been captured, and probably think the same about the dark dragon as well. Trixie stopped as she looked at a particular house and noticed the lone stone in front of it with a message carved in front of it, she put two and two together and figured it was a grave stone. She felt something on her shoulder and she turned around to see Malefor motioning her to come one.

She didn't even noticed that their were changelings advancing on her, Malefor gave a warning growl and they backed away slowly. Malefor and Trixie then caught up with Fade and Shift, after an hour of walking they finally made it to the gates that surrounded the stone like castle where they were stopped by more changeling guards.

"Your orders was to only acquire the dragon, not the unicorn." said one of the guards.

"There were complications," stated Shift, "We had no choice."

"That is no excuse to-"

"The unicorn is with me," stepped in Malefor, "and if you have a problem then I have a problem."

The changeling guard stared at the dragon and back at Shift and Fade, he then nodded to the other changelings as they nodded back and opened the gate letting the four inside the castle.

Manehattan; James' Dream

I looked at my surroundings and noticed that I was in some kind of ocean like void, white fog spread across the ground and everything was a light blue. I noticed the echos that filled the realm every time I took a step, I knew my dreams shouldn't be like this so I had to theories, either Luna found me in my dreams or I'm just very stupid and never realized it.

I spread my wings and took to the air to see how far this realm went, which seemed it could go on forever. I start to fly in a random direction seeing if i can find anything that looks like an alicorn.

"Hello?" I call out, "Princess Luna? I know that you....don't like me at the moment but I just want to talk."

Silence.

Maybe she's busy? No, then why am I here? It's not one of my dreams.

"WHAT DOES THOU WANT!!" yelled a familiar voice as I covered my ears.

"First off..ow..second I just want to talk." I say looking around trying to figure out where the voice came from.

"WE DO NOT CONVERSE WITH CRIMINALS!"

"Can you stop with the yelling! And I am not a criminal!"

I suddenly felt a presence behind me in the air as I quickly turned around to met with no other than Princess Luna with a scowl across her features. If I'm correct then she won't be able to hurt me in here unless, she's like Freddy where the injuries that I take in here happens to my body outside, which would be bad.

"Why shouldn't I call you a criminal?" asked Princess Luna, "You put ponies in danger, and was part of the murder of good guards."

"it's not my fault, Malefor-"

"You and him are the same, are you not?"

"Yes, in a sense but-,"

"Then that's all I need to know."

I growl a little bit at this, "What is wrong with you? Didn't you have the same problem before?"

She glares at me with a murderous intent, "Don't you dare compare me with you, unlike you I actually cared for my subjects."

"I care for them to! Obviously you have to have heard about the friends I have in Ponyville! They're probably worried!"

"Pssh, don't make me laugh dragon." she scoffs, "They are probably celebrating that you are finally gone."

I rubbed my head in frustration, this is like talking to a brick wall. Does she understand that I am not the enemy here? Malefor is still out there doing God knows what but she's more focused on me...the one who is actually trying to help instead of... the other me who probably wants her dead. This isn't the direct approach, so I'll have to try something else, something she won't expect and actually listen...then it hit me.

"Princess Luna," I start gaining her attention, "Why do you hate dragons so much?"

She gives me a confused but annoyed look before answering, "I do not hate dragons. I simply have bad history with them."

"So what about Spike?"

"Spike is nothing like other dragons, he is kind and selfless unlike you!"

"Hey! If I remember correctly I saved your ass and also your sister back in Canterlot and you still had tried to get me killed! Also you never used my actual name but just referred me as 'dragon'."

"And why should I refer to as something else? You're certainly not a human anymore."

I groan as I throw my claws in the air, "What do I have to do to convince you that I'm on your side! I mean, hell I made friends with Equestria's most famous heroes, saved three fillies and a dog, and almost dying twice in the process, and let's not forget me saving you, Twilight, and Celestia from Malefor!"

Princess Luna gave me a scowl, "You don't have to do anything dragon, all of you are just the same, greedy, and selfish! And when ponies need you the most you just abandon them!"

I give a small smile, "So it IS that."

Princess Luna gives me a confused look, "What?"

"I know all about you and Shenron, you're still mad about him all that time ago."

"Of course! He was supposed to be there when I needed him most!"

"Like taking over Equestria, and covering it in eternal night."

She stays quiet at this as I continue, "Do you think you should just let go of the past, Shenron has and he's been regretting doing that to you everyday and even if it meant putting his kingdom in danger. Please Luna don't take out your anger on an entire race just because one of us made a mistake."

"..."

"Princess Luna?"

"No, I'll make sure every damn dirty dragon pays!"

I didn't have time to react as she struck me in the chest with a blast of magic launching me back and plummet from the sky, I watch as the ground becomes closer and closer before everything goes black.

Coco's Apartment

I wake up with a jolt and covered in sweat, I quickly check my body and let out a sigh of relief that none of me is injured in real life. I take a glance at the clock and noticed that it was half past eight. I couldn't get to Luna like this, she is way too stubborn if only I could contact the others but there back in Ponyville.

"Hey, Spyro!" cheered Coco's voice snapping me from my trance.

"Oh, hey Coco. What's up?" I answer, 'Why are you so happy this morning?"

"Oooooh nothing, I just have some great news for you!"

"And what would that be?"

"Well, after trading receiving another letter from Rarity she informed me that she and her friend Applejack will be coming here!"

I felt my heart literally do a backflip in my chest, "Really!? When would they get here?", this is great! I could probably hitch a ride with them back to Ponyville! I could introduce Sam and the others to the girls and Bolt, and who knows maybe they'll help me figure out this bounty that's been placed on my head.

"Actually they arrive today." replied Coco.

"Wait does the other's know?" I ask with a hint of worry.

"No, why?"

"Well, I'm not supposed to be in contact with any of the elements because of safety reasons, but I really need to see them! Can you just cover for me please!"

"I don't know, but for a friend of Rarity's sure, but be careful. Also Flashwing said she'll be taking you out today for your training."

"Alright, thanks Coco, I really appreciate it."

"Hey, what are friends for?"

"Which reminds me where are the others?"

"Oh their eating breakfast downstairs. I recommend you get ready and join them," said Coco as she walks towards the front door, "I have to go to work, but I'll be back soon stay safe."

I nod with a warm smile as she closes the door leaving me in the room, I couldn't believe how my luck just turned around. I just need to get away from Flashwing long enough to talk to Applejack and Rarity long enough to tell me what's been going on since I've been gone.

I really hope nothing goes wrong.

Changeling Castle

Malefor, Trixie, Shift and Fade walked through the halls of the stone castle, the dark dragon had a scowl on his face as a bunch of questions swam through his mind. Why did they want him? He hasn't lead anyone in his life, let alone an entire race. He glanced at the corner of his eye at Trixie, he couldn't help but feel bad for the unicorn.

She looked so scared like a small child walking into their classroom on their first day of school. He let out a quiet chuckle as the 'Great and Powerful Trixie' coward next to him. He glanced at the guards they passed and noticed their grip grew tighter as they walked past, he better be careful, he could take one a few guards easily, but to take on a whole army would be suicide. he needed a plan just in case things goes south with the queen.

"Trixie," whispered Malefor gaining the blue unicorn's attention, "Just in case things get rough I want you to stay as close to me as possible."

Trixie gave him a confused look, "W-what do you-"

"I don't entirely trust these changelings. So stay close just in case things go south."

Trixie nodded in understanding as the four came to what looked like a fairly designed door, Fade and Shift turned around as serious expressions were plastered on their faces, "Look, when we go in try not to...upset the queen." said Shift.

"Yes, she is really emotional at the moment due to her injuries and we don't know how long she is going to last." added Fade as the dark dragon and blue unicorn nodded as Shift opened the door letting the two inside. The door closed behind the Malefor and Trixie, Malefor kept his guard up even more at this as he heard Trixie gasp he followed the unicorns surprised to see a bed and a dark figure underneath the covers.

Fade and Shift weren't lying about Queen Chrysalis being in bad shape, her horn seemed to be snapped, bandages covering half her body, one eye was shut closed as well of her missing o few teeth. Malefor was at too a little shocked who knew ponies could do this to her, "Who has approached me?" Chrysalis said in a strained voice.

"You should already know the answer to that, you were the one that called for me." replied Malefor as he heard a cough from the changeling queen as she turned her head looking at the dark dragon and the blue unicorn.

"So you are the dragon, Malefor. Ashamed I suspected you to be taller."

"Tread lightly, let's not forget who has the power."

"Of course, but before we began, let me ask what is a PONY doing here."

Trixie backed away a bit as Malefor glanced back at her and then to Chrysalis who had a scowl on her face, "She's...here to help. She is no threat to you."

"Fine. As you can see I am not in the best of states and the changelings population is decreasing everyday."

"And why would I help you? From what I heard you and your EVIL changelings tried to take over an entire nation."

"Seems a little hypocritical don't you think."

"There is a difference between being evil and not giving a fuck."

Chrysalis glared at this, "Us changelings are not evil, we are just what we are and we are treated like monsters because of it. We never hurt ponies when we feed, but we are rejected none the less."

"So is it true? You are dying, and you need me to take over."

"Yes, I-I didn't think th-there was hope," stuttered Chrysalis as tears began to form in her eyes, "until I heard of you in Canterlot, y-you and that o-other dragon. I-I knew with you l-leading us no m-more of my children needs to die."

Trixie felt tears go down her cheeks as well, she had never seen this side of the changelings before, She has always been told that changelings were heartless creatures that sucked you dry of love until you were nothing but a emotionless drone, but to see the changelings in this cave starving and depressed woke something inside her.

"Queen Chrysalis," said Trixie gaining Malefor's and the queen's attention, "Trixie and Malefor accept your offer."

Malefor looked surprised at this, "What!? But-"

Trixie shot him a glare as he grumbled in annoyance, "Fine, I'll take over what do I have to do."

Chrysalis gave a tearful smile, "Thank you! Both of you! For agreeing, but before you could be officially crowned king you need to earn my subjects trust. Which means they need to feed."

"Yeah, I'm sure ponies aren't willingly going to give up their love."

"What about the crystal heart?" suggested Trixie earning a confused look from the dark dragon.

"Crystal heart? What's that?"

"It's an ancient artifact in the Crystal Empire, from what Trixie has read it's supposed to radiate an endless supply of love."

"Well, that was convenient. What's the catch?"

"Trixie's wagon cannot travel that far, so we would have to take a train from the nearest settlement."

"And what's that."

"Manehattan."

"Fine. I'll suck it up," agreed Malefor before looking to Chrysalis, "You ok with this?"

Chrysalis nodded, "Absolutely, you two are doing a great thing for my children and i hope succeed. At least I can now rest knowing my changelings are...in...good...hands." the changeling queen then slowly closed her eyes and laid still.

"Chrysalis?" called Malefor

No response.

"I-Is she-?" stuttered Trixie as Malefor put to talons on her neck checking for a pulse but didn't.

"She's gone. Come on we have a promise to keep."

The blue unicorn nodded as they headed for the exit of the room as Malefor said one last thing, "I really hope nothing goes wrong."

Act 1: A New Reunion Part 1

View Online

'Manehattan, Lobby'

As I came entered the lobby the first thing I noticed was the lack of ponies, other than the staff. I saw Sam and the others sitting down at a lone table, I walk up to the table and got a smile from Sam and motioned me to the chair on the side of her.

"Hey James, how was your sleep?" asked Flashwing.

"Fine," I answer, "So what are you guys talking about?"

Flashwing was about to answer but Bash beat her to it, "There has been an increase in activity in Royal Guards this morning, so that means we have to be more careful."

"Do you know why?"

"My sources say that two of the elements will be in Manehattan for a while to visit Miss.Pommel." stated Drobot.

Shit, so they do know.

I gulped a little bit, he knows he's supposed to stay away from any of the elements but they are his friends. And I need to know how the others are doing. Pinkie, Rainbow, the Crusaders, Twilight, Spike, Derpy, Dinky, Bolt, and Fluttershy, they are probably worried sick but at the same time, what if Luna was right when she said they don't even miss me?

No, that can't be right. Coco said they've been looking for me, but what if they gave up and forgot about me? All these thoughts swam through my head, I didn't even know that I was sweating a bit.

"James!" exclaimed Sam shaking me from my trance.

"O-Oh sorry, I was just thinking." I apologize.

"Did you hear anything we said?"

I shake my head.

"Well, while you were over there day dreaming," stated Bash, "We decided to keep our distance away from Miss Pommel l until the two elements depart."

"But this is a good thing right?" I ask, "If the two of the elements are here that means they probably gave up looking for me dismissed the lock down."

Drobot shook his head, "That may be possible, but that still doesn't mean they'll show mercy if they spot us."

"So we're not taking any chances," added Flashwing, "Since you have history with the rest of the elements, there will be no hint they will be watched."

"We already look strange as is, while in public, so if we get to close it could stir up some questions and maybe blowing our cover."

I could only nod at their plan, I felt a little bad that I had to not follow them, but I couldn't let his chance pass. Coco said that Applejack and Rarity is helping her with some play, right? Maybe the theater? No from the looks of Coco she doesn't look like the 'classy type', there is that park we walked passed when we arrived here but it looked like no one's been there in ages.

"I think we should all split," I suggest gaining everyone's attention, "If we all travel in one group of two and the other group of three, we could reduce the chance of being noticed, plus maybe find some info on Malefor if the guard has found anything yet."

"That's the smartest thing you said all day." smirked Bash.

"Then it's settled," started Sam, "Me, Bash, and Drobot will be a group and James and Flashwing will be the other."

Drobot shook his head once again, "No offense, I would recommend me scouting high over the city for an open view."

Alright, me and Bash, and James and Flashwing."

Drobot stood from his seat, "In that case, I'll take flight from the roof of the building."

"Stay safe." I say as I get a nod from the mechanical dragon as he walks off.

"Alright let's see what we can find out." says Bash as we all stand and put on the clothes we arrived here in and head out the exit of the apartment complex. Sam and Bash gives me and Flashwing a wave before walking down a random sidewalk, with us walking on a different one. This will be easier then I thought, all I have to do is spot Applejack and Rarity, and separate from Flashwing in enough time to talk to them. Then return to her before the crystal dragoness gets to worried and act like nothing had happened.

Yeah, I know easier said than done, but it was all I got, as we walked Flashwing tapped my shoulder gaining my attention, "So James," started Flashwing with an eager expression, "What's going on between you and Sam?"

"Us?" I start as we conveniently walk past a couple sharing a drink, "Well, I don't know actually, we were close but ever since she...'left'...I'm just confused as ever."

"'Confused'? You found another girl have you."

I looked at her with a surprised expression, "How did you-"

"Oh please," she waves a claw at me, "I'm not stupid. I know when a male finds another female."

"It happened to you before?"

"Too many times, in my book, but enough about me. Who is the other girl?"

Flashwing now had a sly grin on her face, I swear her and Rarity would get along greatly, but with her voice sounding like Twilight all the time it would still make me think back to the purple alicorn, "More like, three girls."

"Oh, jeez. Sam isn't going to like this."

"Tell me about it. I don't know if dragons have similar customs but a friend told me that ponies have this thing called a herd, but I don't think I can do that and take all that pressure. But at the same time if I pick one I'll be breaking the hearts of three others. I-I don't know what to do."

"Hey," Flashwing says softly and puts a claw on my shoulder, "Don't worry, I'm your friend. How about you tell me about these three girls and I'll give you my opinion."

I nod, "Alright, but I have to start when I first arrived here in Equestria or to be more specific...the Everfree Forest."

Ponyville; Fluttershy's Cottage

"Mrs.Fluttershy are you ok?" asked Evelyn.

Fluttershy was snapped from her trance and blushed as she noticed the mountain of dog food she had poured into the dish bowl, but the white shepherd known as both didn't seem to mind, "O-Oh, y-yes I'm fine."

The deer tilted her head in confusion, "Are you sure? You seem a little tense."

"Well. I maybe be a little worried."

"Is it about Mr.James?"

Fluttershy paused and let out a sad sigh," Y-yes, I'm just worried about him. I-I know I wasn't there in C-Canterlot, but I c-can't shake the f-feeling like I am some what r-responsible."

Evelyn gave Fluttershy a stern look, "Why are you blaming yourself Mrs.Fluttershy? You didn't know what would happen."

"Yes, but-"

"But nothing. Mrs.Fluttershy you have been sulking around ever since you got back and it isn't healthy, I know you and Mr.James were close but acting depressed isn't going to bring him back."

Fluttershy kept the same expression, but nodded the teenage deer was right. If she was ever going to see the purple dragon again she couldn't give up and start moping around now. She glanced at Bolt who was happily eating his food, the yellow pegasus knew the dog missed James as well, but he always seemed to have a positive attitude.

"You know for a deer your age, you are very mature." complimented Fluttershy with a smile.

Evelyn gave a confident smirk, "I try, but I'm sure we'll find Mr.James some day and who knows maybe he'll come back here."

Fluttershy gave a sad smile, "Yeah...maybe."

Sweet Apple Acres; CMC Clubhouse

"Dinky, Sweetie? Are ya'll doin' okay?" asked Applebloom with a worried expression. The two unicorn fillies both gave forced grins and nodded.

"Of course we are!" exclaimed Sweetie Belle.

"Yeah, what makes you think that something is wrong."

Scootaloo gave them an unbelieving look, "Well, you two HAVE been distant lately from the club house and when you do come you two barely talk or give any ideas on how to get our cutie marks."

The two fillies were stumped, they didn't want their friends to worry about them, but it seemed that they were already on to their saddened expression. Ever since James 'left' it had been kind of empty for the two unicorns, the adults said that he just went on 'a trip' and that he'll be back soon, but the two knew better, that he either left for good or something happened that the adults aren't telling them.

Sweetie Belle had not been eating much back at Rarity's place, she knew her sister noticed but decided not to say anything. Every time she would lay down she would think back to the purple dragon and the rides he would give her when he first came here. He was like a big brother to her and now he was Celestia-knows where in Equestria.

Dinky had been not been on the bright side as well, and it wasn't only her it was her mother as well. She instantly noticed something was wrong when Derpy came back home and she hadn't seen James in a while. The little unicorn filly knew her mom had a crush on James, it was pretty obvious since she would talk about the purple dragon every time she came home from work. She didn't mind though she actually hoped that if he and her mom do get to together, then she would finally have a dad.

"Well...we just miss James." replied Sweetie.

"Yeah," added Dinky, "He's been gone for a long time."

"Well, he is on vacation." said Applebloom.

"And you actually believe that!" exclaimed Sweetie shocking Applebloom and Scootaloo, "Come on girls, we all know how ridiculous that sounds."

"Yeah, what if something bad happened!" suggested Dinky.

Scootaloo waved a hoof at the two, "Oh come on! James, is a dragon! I'm sure if he runs into trouble he'll take care of it easily. Sweetie Belle, you got to have remembered how he handled those timberwolves when we first met him right?"

"Yeah, but got hurt really bad and I don't want that to happen again."

Something clicked in Applebloom's mind, "Hey, Dinky why would you think James is in trouble."

"W-well," started the grey unicorn with an uncertain expression, "I over heard Fluttershy and my mom talking and they were saying that James was in trouble with the Princesses."

The four fillies were silent, not knowing what to say, "I-I think I'm going home for the day." suddenly said Dinky, "I'll see you girls tomorrow."

She gave a wave to the three fillies who waved back, Dinky gave a sad smile and left the treehouse. Once she was a good distance away she let the tears flow down her cheeks until she got to the front door of her house.

Manehattan

".....and here I am." I finish as we turn another corner, we have been walking for God-knows how long, I didn't even notice that it was dark out. As I finished I could see the sparkle in Flashwing's eyes telling me that she actually listened the whole time.

"Well," she starts, "from the sound of things you really care for the ponies you met in Ponyville, huh?"

I nod, "Of course."

"So far, I'm thinking that you should try this heard thing out. It isn't a dragon tradition but at the same time you're not technically a dragon."

"But what about Sam? It's not 'human' tradition either. But for real if the herd thing doesn't work out what should I do then?"

"Well, so far this Fluttershy and Derpy seems promising, since one of them saved you from dying twice already,"

I blush a bit and rub the back of my head, "Yeah, those weren't my best times living in Ponyville."

A sudden applause caught our attention as we noticed the group of ponies that seem to be observing an outdoor play or theater...huh...why does that sound so familiar, like I was supposed to do something. I shrug off the thought and follow Flashwing as we head toward the crowd, we watch the ponies on stage as they perform their show.

The first thing I notice was the songs and dances...kind of something Rarity would do and the stage had kind of a country look to it. As the play starts to near it's end I feel a cool draft I look around and notice a stand selling different kinds of scarves. I tap Flashwing on the shoulder gaining her attention.

"Hey, I'm going to go get a scarf, you want one?" I ask.

Flashwing shakes her head, "Nah, I'll stay here. Be careful though, guards are still patrolling."

"Don't worry, it's just across the street."

She nods and turns back to the play which seems to be ending, I start my walk over to the stand. I make sure to tip my hat down from any passing guards walking by and tucking my tail from any flying over head. I made it to the stand and greet the stallion there he asks me if I needed any help in his selection. I told him I was fine and looked around the stand and spot an orange scarf with blue highlights, I observe it and decide to buy it.

"Is this what you would like sir?" asks the stallion.

I nod as I reach in the pocket of the jacket, "Yeah, just let me-"

"DON'T BUY THAT SCARF!" screamed a female voice, before I had time to react my scarf was in cased in a light blue aura and placed back to where it was. My eyes widen when I see a familiar white unicorn with a purple mane run past me not even acknowledging me as she desperately looks through the other scarves on the stands.

"Oh good! I came just in time."Rarity breathes in relief still not even looking at me as I can only chuckle at her antics. She picks up another scarf with this one being red with a yellow stripe down the middle.

"Here, try this one-", Rarity stops as she finally glances at me, she drops the scarf on the ground and slowly walk up to me with hopeful eyes, "J-James? I-Is that you?"

I nod, "Yeah, it's me."

SMACK

"Ow! Son of a bitch!" I scream rubbing my cheek, "What the fu-"

I was cut off by Rarity pulling me into an embrace, I could feel the tears soaking my jacket as she buried her head in my shoulder. I return the hug pulling her closer and rest my head on top of hers. After what felt like forever we finally break apart and Rarity wipes a final tear from her eyes.

"Wha-...how.." stuttered Rarity.

"Hey Rares" I say softly, "Slow down, I know it's been....a while....but let's just take a deep breath."

"W-what happened? S-some ponies said you were...d-dead. And others that you were captured."

"It's okay, I'm fine..at the moment. I'm just glad you're here."

"Me too, but what happened in Cant-"

Before Rarity could finish, I heard a familiar southern accent that made me almost leap for joy, "Hey Rarity, what's takin' so long-" Applejack stops and shares the same expression Rarity had just a few moments ago-

SMACK

"AH! What the hell! Is this going to be a thing now!" I yell in pain as Applejack then pulls me in another hug.

"A-ah'm sorry sugarcube, but...where the hay were you! And what happened back in Canterlot."

I give the orange mare a pat on the back and pull away, "You probably wouldn't believe me if I told you guys," I say.

"James," started Applejack, "Ah' don't know who ya’ thank ya' are talkin' too, but Ah'm sure there is nothin' ya'll need to lie 'bout."

"Well, if you say so.." I motion them to a nearby table and motion for the two mares to sit down, which they do. I start from me and Twilight's argument on the train, to Malefor getting released and the princesses(mostly Luna) blaming me, which the two mares didn't really take well. But since I told them about me reuniting with Sam and also meeting Ignitus, Shenron, Porunga, Bash, Flashwing, and Drobot, they seem to have seem more interested than worried.

I explained to them how me and the others came here to find Malefor to 'unlock' my true potential, whatever the hell that meant. "...and that's when Rarity caught me at the stand." I finish as I Rarity and Applejack both had worried but at the same time joyful expression, "I'm really glad to see you girls again."

"Us too darling, the others have been...worried on your absence. Especially three important mares."

"Y-yeah, I know how are they doing? And Bolt?"

Applejack decided to step in, "Their doin' fine..mostly...Twi' still blames herself after what happened back in Canterlot and Shy and Derps are starting to think the same, and even little Dinky. Bolt is stayin' with Shy, so you know he's in good hooves."

"Sweetie, has been missing you too, I notice the change in her personality ever since we told her and the others that you were on 'vacation' , so they wouldn't worry or go off to find you."

I look down in shame, "I-I'm really sorry." I try to fight the tears from escaping, "You and S-Sweetie is like the little sister I never had, and Applejack y-you're like m-my best cousin. I-I wasn't strong enough in b-beating Malefor back in C-Canterlot, it's my fault this is happening. If I would've j-just asked for help..."

"Listen here dear," snapped Rarity, "You've done everything you could, and if what you told us about this...Malefor...was true then there was no possible way of you beating him. I'll be proud to call you my big brother."

Applejack nodded, "Ya' got that right! The Apples are always open to new members of da' family! no matter what they look like."

I give up in trying to hold back tears and pull the two in a warm embrace which they gladly accept without hesitation. I could feel them nuzzling in the side of my neck, I had to admit I missed this a lot and I didn't care what the others say I'm going back to Ponyville and no royal guard...Malefor...or princess was going to stop me.

"James! What are you doing!" yelled a voice causing me, Rarity, and Applejack to break the embrace and face the now glaring Flashwing stalking towards us.

I could only watch as she got closer and mumble one thing, "Shit."

Act 1: A New Reunion Part 2

View Online

Manehattan

I could only watch helplessly and gulp as I watch Flashwing stomp toward the three of us with a murderous intent. Applejack has the same look in her eyes while Rarity as a look of concern and confusion. As Flashwing comes closer, i place a claw on Applejack's shoulder, and gently place her behind me with Rarity, She shows little resistance but I give her a look telling her that i'll be fine and she finally submits and backs off.

"Flashwing i can explain.." I say as the angry white dragoness stops in front of me with the same glare.

She cuts me off with a punch to the shoulder, "James, have you any idea what you just done! We specifically said to stay away from the elements!"

"Yeah and I'm sorry," I started rubbing my now sore arm, "but I couldn't do that...I just needed to know if they were fine. Come on what would you do if you haven't seen someone you care for in a long period of time and finally get a chance to meet them again."

"That's not the point! The point is that you could not only get yourself captured and killed, but put them in danger as well!"

"That is not going to happen! Not while I a still here."

Flashwing and stood staring at each other both of us having a glare, until she gave out a defeated sigh, "You're lucky that I have a soft spot for family, but Bash isn't going to like this."

"I'll handle Bash, it's Sam that I'm worried about."

I noticed that Flashwing had calmed down as she placed a claw on my shoulder with a sympathetic look on her face,"I'll make sure to bring flowers to your funeral."

I roll my eyes, "Oh, haha."

She lets out a cute giggle, then turns towards Rarity and Applejack, "So these are the elements? I'm sorry for my attitude earlier it was...unladylike of me."

"That's mighty fine," stepped in Applejack, "but I gotta' admit you did give us a scare for a sec."

"So, you are the Flashwing James been telling us about?" asked Rarity as Flashwing nodded.

"That's me and judging for what James told me you two must be Rarity and Applejack."

"Applejack smiled, "Ya' got that right! But if ya' don't mind me asking, why wouldn't ya' let James see us?"

"Like I said before, we were just trying to protect him and you guys. The guards have eyes and ears everywhere and we weren't taking any risks of being discovered."

Rarity took a worried and confused glance toward my direction, "But why was the Princesses trying to kill you! This is certainly not like them."

I shrug as a response, "I honestly don't know, well...Luna kind of has a grudge against dragons so I kind of get that, but Celestia is the one that has me stumped."

It was the truth, I didn't know why Celestia would let this happen, didn't she know that I was trying to save them back in Canterlot? Hell, I literally stopped Malefor from blasting both her AND her sister into oblivion. So why? I can't just go to Canterlot and ask that would be suicide, because A. It is probably flooded with guards and B. I'm not strong enough yet.

That's when it hit me, what if I have someone on the inside? It couldn't be the girls though, they will make it too obvious, wait didn't Twilight say that she had a brother in the Crystal Empire? He could work...if I remember correctly about Twi' is that she loves to send new information to her close friends and family.

I let out a chuckle gaining the three girls attention, I noticed their gazes a I clear my throat, "Sorry, I just thought of something."

"Like what?" asked Flashwing.

"Applejack, Rarity..Twi has a brother and sister-in-law right?"

They both nodded, "Yeah, Shining Armor and Princess Cadence both run the Crystal Empire." answered Applejack.

"Perfect, I was thinking that we could go there and see the both of them and get this mess straightened out. Maybe they could talk to Luna and Celestia."

"That's not actually a bad idea,"commented Flashwing, "It would make finding Malefor easier."

"But what about the other dragon's?" asked Rarity.

I waved a claw, "Don't worry Rares, I'm sure Bash, Drobot, and, Sam will be just fine."

Coco's Apartment

"You stupid son of a bitch!" screamed Bash as a clenched claw found it's way across my face forcing me to the ground. I watched at the corner of my eye as Rarity, Applejack, and Coco tried to step in but was stopped by Flashwing who shook her head. Drobot had his usual blank expression and Sam was silent with a disappointing look on her face.

I spat out some blood and came to my feet and kept a stern gaze, "Do you have any idea what you've done?" asked Bash.

"Yeah," I answer, "I saw a chance to be reunited with my friends! And I took it!"

"And because of that you risked of blowing our cover! For some ponies!"

"Now hold it right there," stepped in Applejack, "Ah' din't know who you think ya' are but ah' don't appreciate you talkin' to our friend like that."

Bash laughed," And what are you going to do?"

"Protect your friend, you wingless brute!" added Rarity, I could tell that struck a nerve in Bash as he growled and stepped forward.

"Bash! That's enough." exclaimed Sam as the earth elemental stopped in his tracks, before glaring at the purple dragoness and letting out a snort and backing off toward the couch away from the group. I instantly feel a shiver as I watch Sam give me one of those 'looks'.

"W-what were you thinking?" choked Sam as I stayed silent, "D-Do you know wh-what I'll do if I l-lose you again."

I instantly pulled Sam into a hug, she squirms a bit but then hugs me back as she cries into my shoulder,"Sam, I didn't mean to hurt you...but I'm not leaving you ever again."

She broke the embrace and nodded, wiping a tear from the corner of her eye,"So what now?"

"Now we leave," Stepped in Bash, "We can't stay here, so I hope James here have a plan."

I nod, "Actually I do, and if it works it will make our jobs a helluva lot easier."

"So what is this objective?"asked Drobot.

"The Crystal Empire, if we can somehow convince Princess Cadence and Shining Armor that we are not the bad guys, then maybe we could also patch up things with Luna and Celestia."

"How do you know if they will even believe you?" asked Coco who just came into the room.

"Me and Applejack here are good friends with them," commented Rarity.

"Yeah," added Applejack, "All we have ta' do is get back to Ponyville and explain ta' Twi' what's goin' on. Then she'll send a message through Spike to Princess Cadence and Shining Armor."

Flashwing nodded,"Then it sounds like a plan, the two elements will return to Ponyville while the rest of us will go to the Crystal Emp-"

Everything seemed to slow down, we didn't know why Flashwing had suddenly stopped mid sentence, until we heard the sound of the window breaking and the white dragoness' screams echoing through the room. Flashwing fell to the ground with an arrow that had pierced her shoulder. As time seemed to speed back up I watched as Bash instantly moved Flashwing out of the way from another incoming arrow.

Drobot activated his thrusters and flipped the couch and barricaded the window, before landing back on his feet. Our attention then turned to Bash who was trying to take the arrow out of Flashwing's shoulder but she winced and motioned him to leave it alone. "How did a simple arrow pierce her scales?" asked Sam with worry.

Bash growled and gave me a death glare, "The arrow is infused with magic, this wouldn't have happened if you just listened and stayed low!"

I looked down in shame, this was all my fault. If I hadn't of reunited with Applejack and Rarity none of this would be happening right now. I could feel Rarity and Applejack trying to comfort me but I pay them no heed. It was Canterlot all over again, but this time even more of the ones he cares for are going to get caught in the crossfire.

But I won't let that happen again.

"Bash-" started Sam.

"Leave." I say gaining everyone's attention in the room.

"What?"

"All of you get out of here. The guards are here for me and me alone."

Sam shook her head,"Not in a chance in hell I'm doing that!"

"Well, you have to. I know this sounds cheesy but Bash is right. I'm only bringing harm to the rest of you if you're around me. I can probably hold them off for you guys to sneak out the building."

"My scanners are showing royal guard entering the building as we speak." commented Drobot.

"Then we don't have time to argue, you guys hurry up and go. I'll hold of those bastards."

"James! i'm with Sam on this," exclaimed Rarity, "You can't take on the royal guard alone."

"Rarity here is right!" added Applejack, "This is suicide, what 'bout the girls and Spike? What 'bout Twi', Flutters, and Derpy?"

I flashed the two ponies a sad smile, the girls and Spike back in Ponyville had crossed my mind. Pinkie, Rainbow, Applicable, Scootaloo, Spike, Sweetie Belle, Dinky, Twilight, Derpy, and Fluttershy. The chances of me surviving this are a million to one but it was the only way for the others to get out of here.

Rarity and Applejack will be fine, if anything the guards would just assume that they we're being held captive. I watched the sad looks on their faces as tears threaten to escape from their eyes. "I'll try to make it back," I say softly, "But I can't make any promises."

"Th-This ain't fair! We just found ya'!" I pulled the two ponies n an embrace trying to fight my own tears as well.

I broke the embrace and turned toward Drobot, "Drobot, change of plans take these two with you guys to the Crystal Empire. I'll try to catch up as soon as I can. Coco I suggest you go with them as well because shits about to hit the fan."

Coco shook her head, "Actually I'll stay here in the apartment, try and act like I was kidnapped."

I nod as a sudden cough brought my attention to Bash, who had Flashwing draped across his back, "James...make sure you come back alive. So I can kick your ass for this."

It might not of sounded like it, but I heard that phrase plenty of times to know that the dino like dragon had forgiven me and wanted me to stay alive.

"Royal Guards are on almost on the level and are closing in." warned Drobot.

"Then let's not keep them waiting," says Sam, "And James, when you get back we are definitely talking about these other girls."

I feel myself pale a little bit kind of hoping I might not survive this. I give her a nervous nod as all of us except Coco, who stayed behind, rushed out of the apartment and down the hallway. I could hear the metal clang of the Royal Guards suits as the sounds of their hoofsteps surrounded us in the hallway.

"Sir! I think I hear something coming form this way!" I hear a guard call out.

"Those guards are getting closer!" exclaimed Bash.

"Then we need to got to the roof and try to lose them in the clouds." explained Sam.

"What about the pegasi?"

"We'll take care of them and meet you, Flashwing, and James at the train station."

A bolt of magic flew past my head as I turned and saw the guards already catching up to us. We weren't going to make it at this rate, "Guys I'm going have to depart earlier than I expected," I say slowing down, I could see the protested looks on Rarity, Applejack, and Sam's faces, "get to the roof and head on to the train station. If you arrive and I'm not there in ten minutes....leave without me."

Before anyone could object I instantly stopped, I watched as Sam and Drobot had to use a little force on Applejack and Rarity from turning back and trying to help me. It pained me to see them that way but I couldn't let them be caught in the crossfire. i turn around facing the guards who were now charging me either raising their spear or their horns glowing ready to fire off bursts of magic.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cjcu1QdapLI

I got in a pouncing stance and bared my teeth letting out a primal growl, letting a few flames sew from my maw. When they got close enough I sent a wave of fire at the group of guards igniting the hallway. The unicorns though easily activated their shields protecting them and their comrades and passing through the flames. Summoning the earth magic in my body a stomped on the floor causing the ground to giving away sending me and the the guards to the level below.

I picked myself up and instantly dodged a spear that was aimed for my chest, I tripped the guard pony with my tail and kicked him into a nearby wall. I jumped back from two magical attacks and sent back a fireball colliding with the nearest unicorn guard causing him to scream in pain and fall over. I spread my wings and flapped using my air magic to blow back the guards gaining from distance from them. I turn around and headed deeper into the hall way trying to find an exit.

"I can't fight them in this tight space,"I say to myself,"I got to find a window or something."

I turn around another corner and spot an open window, without a second thought I jump through causing glass to plummet to the ground with me following after. I slowly glide to the ground and watch as ponies around began to scream and run in terror, I take a glance up and watch as the guards that were chasing me start shouting orders. I turn to fly off but a stray arrow goes through my wing sending me back down, I grunt in pain as I looked at my now bleeding wing.

"Shit! Just my luck!" I spat as I started to run down the sidewalk, I took one last look back at the building and saw that the others weren't on the roof and judging by the no guards flying overhead they must've escaped in time. Good, that meant all I have to do is make it to the train station in one piece and we can get the hell out of here.

I turned down an alley way avoiding a barrage of arrows from pegasi guards, and pumped my limbs even harder. A flash of light caught me off guards a unicorn guards began to teleport in front of me. I did a sharp u-turn and tried to run the others way only for the pegasi guards to land and block my path. I took a defensive stance as the guards slowly advanced on my position.

"Look dragon," a unicorn said, who seemed to be the one in charge,"You are crippled and we have you surrounded. Just give it up and we will take you in alive."

"Then in that case you can kiss my ass!" I yell before leaning my head down engulfing my horns with fire and knocking all of the pegasi guards aside in a fiery explosion. I put up my fiery shield deflecting the magical blasts that came from the unicorns, using my earth magic I stomped on the ground summoning a pillar of rock and pushed it toward the unicorns as I expected the earth pony guards managed to stop it with their strength as the unicorns teleported away.

I grabbed one by the neck with my powerful jaw drawing a little blood and tossing the unicorn into a nearby wagon shattering it upon impact. I sent two fire blasts toward two earth pony guards that tried to stab me with spears from behind engulfing them in flames, and used my tail to catch another spear aimed for the back of my head and broke the tip of the spear before countering with a kick to the gut making him hunch over and land face first.

I looked over to the last guard standing an noticed it was the leader from before. I didn't really get a good look at him due to the darkness of the alley but now that we were out and in the streets i could see him much clearly now. His armor was the same gold, but it was way more bulkier with blue trimmings with a mace strapped to his side. He had no helmet and had white fur with a yellow mane and tail...oh and he was a unicorn too.

"You'll pay for what you've done dragon." spat out the guard using his magic to unsheathe his mace.

"What I've done?" I ask.

"YES! You and your accomplice attack Canterlot and injuring both of the princesses! Not only that but you also just took out my whole squad!"

"That was only self-defense! And a little payback for hurting one of my friends!"

The guard scoffed, "You mean that white dragon? Please I probably did you a favor."

I felt my blood boil, how could Celestia let ponies like this in her guard? I put the thought behind me as I started to circle my opponent with him doing the same. The cool breeze of the night air swept through the buildings of Manehattan, there was no guard in the sky or on the ground, no civilians, no sound but the cool breeze.

"His armor is thicker than the other guards," I say quietly to myself, "It might be enchanted to which means I might have to put a little more effort this time."

A sudden sound from a can can be heard from the distance, signaling the start of the fight. I charged first lowering and igniting my horns and I managed to collide with his chest staggering him a little. He recovered and swung his mace downward but I jumped out the way letting the blunter weapon strike the concrete creating spider webbed cracks.

I charge again dodging another swipe and attempt to slash his foreleg but it was blocked with his mace stunning me, I was then knocked in the gut making me lose my breathe and was sent tumbling like a rag-doll across the concrete street. I managed to dig my claws in the stone skidding back and stopping my momentum. "Okay.." I pant regaining my breathe, "A close attack doesn't work on this guy. Long range it is."

I take a deep breath and let loose a wave of flames at the guard, who not surprisingly, threw up a shield protecting himself from the flames. I charged forward and started to fire a barrage of fire blasts each colliding with his shield. I starred to see cracks forming in the magical barrier signaling that he couldn't keep that up for ever. Taking a deep breath and mustering whatever I had left a dent a massive fire ball the size of a small car from my mouth, and watched as it collided with the guards shield in a large ember like explosion.

The shield shattered blasting the guard back and flinging his mace to god-knows-where, i panted out of breathe and walked to toward the fallen guard who was trying to struggle to his hooves, but only to fall flat on his stomach. he had minor burns and patches of his fur were singed off, with his armor missing pieces and cracked.

"Stay down," I say as he spat at me as i turned around and start to walk toward the train station, "If you'll excuse me, i have a train to catch,"

"Not today.." I heard him say as I instantly turned around, and saw a magical blast coming for my face. i didn't have the strength or stamina to dodge it, until I felt something collide into my side and falling on to of him bringing me down as the blast soared over to where my head was and impacted a nearby wagon exploding in a pink like light.

It was them I flash of purple caught my eye and I heard the guard scream until he was silent. My vision began to come back, as I looked to see a unicorn mare with a light blue coat, silver mane, and purple eyes. She instantly got off of me as I slowly got to my feet and instantly feeling the adrenaline leave my body and the pain starting to replace it.

I wince a bit before turning to the unicorn, "Thanks, I owe you one. I you hadn't of came that would of been my ass." I say as the unicorn shook her head making me look in confusion.

"It's him you need to be thanking." I turn my head to where the unicorn was pointing and my eyes widened. Standing over the charred remains and surrounded by purple flames was a dark dragon. The dragon from Canterlot. The one that saved my life. The one responsible for all this mess. The one that was also me.

"Malefor." I spat.

Malefor just looked at me, before confusing me...he smiled....not like a happy smile, or a mocking smile, but just a regular smile ,"Hello James, we have some things to discuss."

Act 1 Finale: A New Reunion Final Part

View Online

Manehattan

I stay in a defensive stance as I glare at my darker self in front of me, the blue unicorn had been smart and had stepped off to the side, not wanting to get in the middle of what might happen. Malefor kept his glance on me as well, but it wasn't the same one back in Canterlot...no...he seemed almost calm. Something wasn't right, the blue unicorn was my first guess, why was she with him? Is she mind controlled? No Malefor can't do that..can he?

"What do you want?" I snarl as he gave me a stern gaze.

"Look, I'm going to keep this straight. I know that we aren't 'so fond' of each other at the moment, but we need to hurry back to the train station and fast." he said as I lifted a brow.

"And why's that?"

"Because if we stay here wasting time with the guards, Princess Luna would have already beaten us there."

My eyes widened, but how did she know where we were? It was then it hit me like a train, Twilight had told me that Luna gains a pony's location before she jumps from dream to dream. Which meant she knew I was in Manehattan for who knows how long, hell she probably knew I was in Thedas.

"H-How do you know this?" I question.

"We heard it from a group of guards when we arrived." said the blue unicorn mare.

"And who are you? I would expect Malefor was a lone wolf."

"I am known as Trixie, and she and Malefor have been traveling together."

"She?"

I heard Malefor give out a silent sure, "Don't mind that, what's important now is that we get to the train station."

Should I really trust him? He did almost kill me in Canterlot, but he did also save me from the guards. None of this makes any sense, and it makes me want to pull out my hair if I still had some. But I can't take the chance of Luna making it to the train station and finding the others, she's probably expecting me to be there as well.

And I won't be there....shit....if I'm not there she'll probably use the others as leverage and try to lure me out. Not to mention Applejack and Rarity are with them as well.

"Fine," I say, "lead the way."

Malefor nods towards Trixie and she nods back and we start to quickly make our way down the street. I still didn't feel right about Malefor but something about him was...different. This wasn't the same dark dragon that almost killed me and the princesses back in Canterlot, what happened to him after we separated?

Wait a minute, "Hey, why are you here in Manehattan anyways?" I ask still running next to Malefor.

"It turns out that I'm now a leader of a dying race called changelings. Me and Trixie were supposed to drop by and meet one here so he can give us passage to the Crystal Empire, until the guards came." he answered.

"Crystal Empire? Why do you need to go there?"

"You heading there as well?" I nod, "Well, I'm supposed to reason with the rulers and see if the changelings can migrate there so they can survive."

"And how does that help them survive?"

"Changelings feed on love, and you know that the crystal heart has tones of it."

"Oh..I see, well if I guess we were going to run back into each other sooner or later. Me and some other dragons were going to talk to the rulers as well, and see if they can help us with the whole 'being wanted' thing."

Malefor gave me an unbelieving look, "And how are you going to convince them?"

"The two rulers, are Twilight's brother and sister-in-law. Plus we have Applejack and Rarity with us to back us up just in case things don't go as planned."

Malefor nodded as we kept on running through the streets, it looked like a a scene from those sci-fi movies with the dark rainy sky and the dark empty city. I gave a soft chuckle at the thought, I had to admit I sometimes miss back home, just me and my friends and family laughing and enjoying ourselves. But at the same time I wouldn't have met any of the girls or the dragons, or being reunited with Sam.

"Stop!" yelled Trixie as Malefor and I came to a skidding stop.

"What is it?" asked Malefor.

"Don't you hear that?"

I listen carefully, "Uhhh, no?" I answer.

"Trixie, we don't have time for this!" scolded Malefor.

"No listen to Trixie! Listen!"

Me and Malefor did as she said and kept an ear out. I was surprised to hear, besides the rain, the light sound of flapping. Crap...could be some pegasus guards.

"I hear it now, those are wings." said Malefor.

"It's probably a pegasi patrol." I conclude.

"No you idiot! There is only one, and it sounds much bigger to be a pegasi."

I tilt my head in confusion,"Then who else should it be? Sam and the others should be waiting at the train station now so.....shit."

"What" asked Trixie.

Malefor growled and got in a defensive stance, "It's Princess fucking Luna," he growled, "Trixie head on down to the train station! Me and Jame will hold her off!"

"B-but Trixie can't leave you two!"

"We'll be fine!" I shout back, "Just tell Applejack and Rarity at the train station to get going and I'll catch up later!"

"B-but" stuttered Trixie.

"Trixie! I swear to god if you don't get your ass moving..!" warned Malefor as Trixie gave a hesitant nod and ran off down the street. Me and Malefor kept our defensive stances as we heard the beats of the wings grow louder and louder. It was pretty terrifying honestly, our suspicions were correct when the blue alicorn came down like a bullet landing on the now cracked concrete street.

"It seems we meet again dragons." she spat out as she charged her horn.

"Malefor if we survive this...I want some answers." I say as my body started to tense and adrenaline start to rise.

"Funny," he chuckled, "I was about to say the same about you."

Manehattan Train Station

"James should've been here by now." said a worried Applejack.

"Don't worry darling, I'm sure James can take care of himself...I hope." replied Rarity in an unsure tone.

The group was currently on the train that they had 'borrowed' from the conductor. Drobot and Cinder were flying above watching for any incoming guards or if the purple dragon showed. Bash was currently watching over the injured Flashwing as the two elements, Applejack and Rarity, waited with him in the cart.

"Tell me why." suddenly said Bash gaining the two ponies attention.

"Excuse me?" questioned Applejack.

"Tell me why you support James so much? This is all happening because of him, so why are you still here?"

Rarity gave the dino like dragon a sad look as she watched him pet the scales of the sleeping dragoness, "That's what friends do darling, no matter how many times they may make a mistake, you always be there to get them through it."

"Even if it means your own lives?"

Rarity paused not knowing what to say, which allowed Applejack to step in, "Hey, ah' know that yer' angry, and ah' know the feelin' trust me. But just have faith in James, 'cause that anger is just goin' to eat you up, and that's the truth."

Bash gave a look at the earth pony and unicorn and glanced back at Flashwing who stirred in her sleep. He let out a sigh and nodded before breaking eye contact and returning to his mate's side. At that moment Sam came running in the cart Bash immediately shot up from his spot as Rarity and Applejack did the same.

"What's wrong?" asked Bash.

"It seems we have a visitor." replied Sam.

"Visitor? Just what in the blazes does that mean!"

"It means that you should watch your tongue when Trixie enters!" replied Trixie as she walked in the cart beside Sam. Applejack's and Rarity's eyes widened at the show-mare's sudden arrival.

"Trixie!" exclaimed Rarity.

"What in tarnation are ya' doin' here!?"

"Is she a friend of yours?" asked Sam with a confused expression.

"More like..acquaintances."

"Fine, but that doesn't matter," Sam turned to Trixie, "You said you had information about James, what is it?"

This really caught the two mare's attention and Bash's as well. The earth elemental had to admit he was some what worried about the purple dragon's health. He had progressed fast with their training while here so a few pony guards shouldn't be a problem for him, but the way the unicorn named Trixie looked says otherwise.

"We need to get this train moving to the Crystal Empire as soon as possible. The one called James, and Malefor are holding off Princess Luna as we speak."

"Wait, Malefor and Princess Luna is here!" exclaimed Bash.

"There is no need to worry Trixie is sure that the two of them can handle Luna well."

"Malefor and James are working together!" added Sam.

"Yes, they have put aside their difference for once so they can help us escape."

"But we can't jut leave him!" cried Rarity.

"Trixie doesn't like as much as you do but James has stated its the only way for you to talk to the rulers of the Crystal Empire and fix this and he'll catch up whenever he can."

The group was silent for a few moments, Sam noticed the sad faces of Applejack and Rarity. She didn't know how much of the ponies he met cared for him. It made her kind of jealous that she wasn't the first one to find him, but at the same time she was going to have to thank the one called Fluttershy for saving his life. Also the other ponies the purple dragon had told her about.

Applejack was confused at the situation to say the least, she and the other girls had been informed of the situation back in Canterlot. SO it didn't make any sense how Malefor was working with the dragon that tried to kill him. And why was Princess Luna so opposed to dragons? She was okay with Spike just fine.

Rarity however was terrified for the purple drake, she had just gained a new 'brother' and now he might be taken away from her due to a stupid misunderstanding. She was trying her best not to run out the train station and try to help James but.....she knew that the only way to undo this was to go to the Crystal Empire.

The silence was broken when the sounds of spells and and blaster fire can be heard out side. Drobot came rushing in, "The guards have found out location. Has James arrived yet?" asked the tech-like dragon.

"We're leaveing without him." said Bash as he stood and quickly began to start the engine.

"Now hold on a minute!", stepped in Sam, "We haven't even agreed to this."

"We don't need to! If we stay here we're as good as dead, plus Flash needs medical help." snapped Bash, "Unicorn, you know any healing spells?"

Rarity hesitantly nodded, "I-I see what I can do, but I can't make any promises."

"That's good enough for me, Earth Pony get this train moving!"

"Ya' ain't gotta tell me twice." replied Applejack as she went to the conductor station, "Ya' best hold on! Because we're goin' for a ride!"

As she said this the train made a loud whistle echoing through the station and began to move before picking up speed. Bash looked to the window beside him and saw that they were now being chased by chariots. and pegasi. He growled in annoyance knowing it wasn't going to be this easy.

"Sam! Drobot! Get on top and take care of those chariots! I'll go through the carts and make sure they don't come from the sides." ordered Bash as the two elementals nodded and flew out the door of the cart. Bash took one look at Flashwing who started to sweat and noticed as the one known as Rarity trying her best to keep the wound at bay.

"This is going to be a helluva fight." commented Bash he he started to run through the carts."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0EDkunc8JiE

Manehattan

James was thrown to the ground once again, causing the air to be knocked from his lungs. The lunar princess charged again but was knocked to the side by Malefor panting heavily. James slow got to his feet and sent a barrage of fire balls towards Luna, with Malefor doing the same, the balls of flame impacted the princess in a mixture of purple and orange causing smoke and debris to fill the streets.

Malefor and James' eyes both widened when they saw the lunar princess walk out of the smoke without even a scratch o her. How did she get this powerful? She wasn't this strong back at Canterlot when she AND Celestia faced off against Malefor.

"We're getting our asses kicked." panted James.

"I..I can see that. replied Malefor.

"You dragons are pathetic," spat out Luna, "Always relying attacking head on instead of strategy."

"I have a strategy bitch," growled Malefor, "attack!"

Malefor spread his wings as purple flames enveloped his horns and James doing the same with his orange flames around his horns. The both of them ran towards Luna horns first ready to bash the princess with their magical charge attack. Luna however flew up in the air dodging both of the dragons as they collided into a nearby carriage.

The lunar princess then fired a blue magical blast into Malefor's side shooting him across the ground in pain. She then charged James and rammed him through several buildings, not caring who was inside, and use her telekinetic grip to toss him in the concrete below creating a cloud of stone and dust.

Luna watched as the dust cleared and gritted her teeth when she saw the purple dragon with a flaming shield around him, the young dragon had definitely improved since Canterlot but that wasn't going to stop her from wiping him from existence. James spread his wings and flew up towards Luna as she did the same, he caught her off guard by engulfing him self in flames and teleporting behind the princess and and striking her backside sending her into a building.

He kept his guard out when Luna shot out the building and collided with his chest, James used his bubble breath to send a barrage of bubbles into the princess' face stunning her and loosening her hold on the dragon. James gained his distance in the air and watched as Luna now glared at him.

"Princess Luna!" exclaimed James, "We don't have to keep doing this."

Luna scoffed, "And what does that mean dragon."

"I have a name you know! You can't let the mistake of another from long ago cloud your judgement."

"It hasn't clouded my judgement! It's just opened my eyes to see that you dragons are all the same!"

"Even Spike?"

"Spike is different! He was raised under pony society hence him being pony based."

"Come on Luna! We both know that's not true! Stop this and nobody else has to get hurt!"

"The only thing that is going to get hurt is you and your counter-part dragon!"

James smirked, "I warned you."

Before Luna could retaliate she was knocked in her blind side by Malefor launching her to the ground below. Malefor shook his head from the impact and rubbed it in pain.

"Damn! What is she made of!" groaned Malefor.

"What the hell took you so long!" exclaimed James.

"Your Welcome for saving your life ass."

"Dragons. Always fighting among-st themselves and not focusing on the task in front of them." said the voice of Luna, Malefor then dodged an incoming carriage flying towards him as James did the same. At this rate the two dragons couldn't get close to get a strike or have enough time to shoo a blast of fire. Malefor figuring he had enough of dodging manged to take a risk and launching a mini black hole from his maw sucking up the projectiles before disappearing.

Malefor then converted into a show like form before charging Luna, who sent a magical blast at the shadow but only for it to sail right through it. The shadow of Malefor collided into the princess fazing through her and knocking her down. Malefor reformed behind her and sent a blast of purple flame at her. Luna quickly threw up a shield and fire d a powerful blast Malefor but a wall of earth formed in between them blocking the attack.

Luna looked behind her to see James and his claws in the concrete his eyes glowed a little as he summoned pillars of earth around the blue alicorn trapping her in a dome of earth. Malefor then flew high in the air, ignoring the pain in his wings and came up high over the city, the dark dragon then twisted his body and came downward like a purple comet and collided with the dome of earth in a purple explosion shaking the ground.

James used his forearm to shield his face from the dust and debris that bounced off his purple scales. His purple irises scanning the smoke for any movement, but found none.

"Malefor you alive in there!," James called out, "Wait, I'm alive so of course he is."

Before James could go see if his ally was alright, something big collided into the dragon knocking him on his back. James groaned and looked to see what had hit him and saw the unconscious body of Malefor lying on his side, cuts and bruises on his body. James slowly crawled toward the unconscious dragon but was caught in a blue grip and was lifted in the air.

He struggled in the grip but could only watch helplessly as Luna emerged from the smoke her horn glowing, and with hardly a scratch on her, not counting the few bruises and frazzled mane and tail. James cried in pain as the blue aura around him began to scream causing his wounds to open up and blood to paint his scales.

"You have made a grave mistake dragon," said Luna darkly as her eyes began to glow white, "You have tricked the elements into believing you and your kind ways, even manipulating four poor fillies. You have threatened me and my sister and caused serious damage to Canterlot and this peaceful city and for that you are sentenced to death."

"Y-you c-crazy b-bitch, " spat out James, "W-Why cant y-y-you s-see th-that I'm on your s-side."

"Because you are not! And that goes for every other dragon I find! Even that Sam character, I'll make sure gets some special treatment."

James narrowed his eyes at that as something in him snapped, it felt just like that night back on earth. Him and Sam leaving the movies, the guy with the gun, him being helpless and reckless to stop the gunfire, to him crying in the hospital. He was NOT going to lose her again, not if he had anything to say about it!

James let out a primal roar knocking the princess of the moon off her hooves and breaking her hold on James, "I WON"T LET YOU!" screamed James as a fire like aura began to surround him. His horns started to glow and extend as did his height, soon his whole body was engulfed in a fiery ember.

Luna shield her eyes from the brightness of the flame, and the intense heat coming from the dragon. Once the temperature started to drop and the flames diminished and and the light dimmed, Luna's eyes widened eyes widened. She didn't see the same purple dragon from before, but a slightly taller drake with purple scales, with sharper wings and spines going across his back and tail, crimson eyes, and giant horns that curved to the back of his head and spoke in a low menacing voice that made chills run over her body.

"You won't lay a single fucking hoof, on the ones I care for!"

Train; Outside of Manehattan

Bash knocked another guard off the train with his clubbed tail watching the pony tumble across the ground. He was very lucky that Sam and Drobot were taking care of the guards on the roof while he handled them who tried to board the run away train on the sides. He stumbled as the train shook a little and growled when he saw more guards racing beside the train on chariots.

A chariot got close and deployed a squad of guards through one of the openings, Bash got in a defensive stance as the guards charged. Bash couldn't use any of his elemental magic because it might damage the train, so he would have to rely on his brute strength and durability. He grabbed a guard by the throat and slammed him on the ground. A nearby sword bounced off his tough scales causing Bash to throw the guard in his claw at the other knocking them both out the window.

Another guard lunged at him with a spear, but the dino dragon caught it in his strong jaws snapping it instantly before spinning and smashing his clubbed tail in the face of the guard knocking him on his back and unconscious. Bash walked up to the unconscious guard and picked him up by the breast plate and threw him out another window.

Before he could praise himself he was blasted back by a beam of magic, Bash grunted as he stood up and saw an unicorn guard wearing bright blue armor with a smug grin on his face.

"Come dragon! Let's see you handle a unicorn like me!" the unicorn guard said proudly.

"You won't be saying that after I crush you!" retorted Bash as he charged the unicorn who simply clicked his tongue and throwing up a shield and bouncing back Bash. The elemental was dazed for a few seconds before shaking his head and started to pound on the shield summoned by the guard but to no avail. He tried punching, ramming, and even a few swipes from his mighty clubbed tail but he couldn't even crack the dome of magic.

"Please," scoffed the unicorn as he sent out a small burst of magic knocking Bash away again, "My magic almost rivals the captain of the royal guard herself. So what do you thing you have a chance? You wouldn't want to end up like that white dragon do you."

Bash grit his teeth and let out a primal growl, how dare he mock Flashwing. The horns and spikes on the earth elemental started to glow as he tucked under himself and started to spin at incredible speeds. The unicorn saw this and instantly put more power in his shield, while Bash, now in the shape of a ball, shot towards down the aisle of the train and collided with the shield once more shattering it instantly causing the unicorn's nose start to bleed and head throbbing in pain.

Bash then bit into the neck of the unicorn as blood began to fill his mouth and his ears picking up the screaming from the magic user. Bash growled and with a sickening snap broke the unicorns neck and tossed him aside. He panted and knelt down, the last attack had taken a lot out of him, he watched as the rain continued to pelt the window he didn't see any more chariots by the train anymore but judging from the thuds coming from above him Sam and Drobot still had a ways to go.

He gave one last look at the body of the unicorn before spitting and returning back to the front and check on Flashwing.

Sam fired another blast of purple electricity from her mouth shocking a group of pegasi as Drobot shot beams of energy from his wings and eyes engulfing the flying chariots in fire and smoke making them crash into the ground. The mechanical elemental then spread his winds launching two saw like discs towards the last two flying chariots splitting both of them in to.

The discs returned back to his wings and he nodded toward Sam as she did back. "All threats have been neutralized." he said

"Good then lest head back down with the others." said Sam, but was stopped as Drobot put a claw on her shoulder.

"James will be fine, there is no need to worry."

"I..." started Sam before gaining a sorrowful but understanding look, "Alright."

Drobot gave a slight smile before returning back in the cart below, followed shortly by Sam.

"Please come back."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M7PST4lkQHI

Manehattan

"W-What is this sorcery!" demanded Luna.

James sent her a cold glare, "I tried to reason with you, bur you won't listen. You've gone too far now, you've hurt one of my friend s and if I don't stop you you'll hurt more!"

"I-It won't matter how much power you gain! You still won't be a match for me!"

"We'll see about that."

The alicorn and dragon then both charged and collide in a magical explosion shaking the area. Luna lunged her horn intending to stab the drake but James caught it with his claws and spun her around and sending her flying. The princess recovered in mid air, but was to slow to dodge the head butt to the gut. The air left the princesses lungs as she was then blasted with a ball of fire and sent to the ground.

Jame landed keeping his hard gaze on the princess who now had burn marks on her fur. She gritted her teeth as her eyes glowed a bright white as hurricane like winds surrounded her, the rain began to fall more fierce and thunder and lightning began to roar. She let out a mighty scream as she put everything in her horn and unleashed it in a mighty magical attack.

James just stared and ignited his massive horns and charged the beam literally head on. The princesses eyes widened when she actually say the purple dragon holding her blast against her. Luna put more of her magic in her attack hoping to end the struggle, but James slowly stepped forward holding the blast in his horns.

James then increased the fire like magic in his horns and started to push forward like a comet canceling out Luna's attack and colliding in her in a flaming explosion.

Then everything became quiet.

The rain had stopped.

And the thunder becoming silent.

The clouds parted showing the night sky and the full moon.

The nearby ponies of Manehattan had started coming out of the buildings gathering around the crater stilled filled with dust. Curious on what happened between their princess and the purple dragon. Once the smoke cleared it revealed princess Luna on her stomach with burnt marks and bruises on her body. Some her feathers on her wings had been singed preventing any flight. James stood there with a pitiful look at the beaten princess, who tried to stand back on her hooves but to fall back down.

He walked up to Luna as she sent him a hateful glare,"Do it dragon...finish me." she said closing her eyes.

James expression softened when he actually saw tears in her eyes, he looked around him and saw the ponies gazing at him with fearful expressions. He glanced back at Luna and all the anger from before had been replaced with guilt.

"C-Come on, d-do it!" sobbed Luna.

"No." simply answered James as Luna's eyes widened.

"W-what...why?"

"Because I'm proving you wrong. I'm not the monster you labeled me as. And hopefully after this you can see that."

Them princess of the moon then laid her head on the ground and shut her eyes, passing out from exhaustion. James then started to here the booing from the ponies around him and throwing what they could find.

"Get out of here monster!"

"Leave our princess alone!"

"We hope you burn!"

James ignored the ponies' threats and glanced around finding Malefor still unconscious to the side, he walked over to him not caring what trash or rock hit him for it didn't even phase him. He picked up the darker version of himself and slung him over his back before turning back to the crowd, he noticed Coco standing among-st them with a sad look on her face.

James flashed her a small smile before he and Malefor was engulfed in flames and disappeared from the area. Leaving behind a scorch mark and a beaten princess.

END OF ACT 1

Act 2: A New Ally

View Online

Ponyville

Twilight's head snapped toward her bedroom door as she watched Spike pumping his legs toward her bead with a rolled up parchment in his claw. The alicorn quickly jumped off the bed and met her assistant half way across the room, watching as the small purple drake was panting for breath.

"Twilight...letter...Luna....James...hospital..." panted Spike.

After hearing those words, Twilight did not hesitate to snatch the letter from Spikes grip as he fell over in exhaustion. Twilight quickly scanned through the letter as she now had a look of horror on her face. She hastily wrapped up the letter and ran out the room, she didn't want to believe it, she really didn't. She quickly ran out of her castle and spread her wings and shooting off in the air toward a specific house.

She ignored the worried faces of other ponies walking by as she zoomed across the sky, seeing the house she wanted she landed and aggressively knocked on the door. She impatiently waited by the door as it opened to reveal the grey mail-mare known as Derpy with a confused expression on her face.

"P-Princess Twilight..?" said a shocked Derpy.

"There's no time to explain Derpy!" exclaimed Twilight cutting her off, "it's about James."

At the mention of the drakes name Derpy's ears stood at attention, she looked back in the house a quietly stepped out side with the purple alicorn shutting the door. "What am I going to tell Dinky? Who's going to watch her?" asked the grey pegasus with a worried expression.

"She can stay with Applebloom again. I'm sure Big Mac wouldn't mind, hold on while I go tell her."

A few minutes later Derpy came out with a determined expression as Twilight nodded as both mares spread their wings and flew off towards Fluttershy's cottage. Meanwhile four pairs of eyes watched from the window of Derpy's home with shocked and worried expressions. "James is in trouble?" said a worried Sweetie Belle.

"That's what Twilight said." replied Scootaloo.

"Then we have to help him!" added Dinky.

Applebloom gave a unsure look, "But didn't Derpy say that we had ta' stay here?"

"Well, yeah,,but we can't just stay here and do nothing!"

Scootaloo nodded, "Yeah! Just think about us getting a 'saving a dragon' cutie mark,"

Applebloom still wasn't sure, until she saw Sweetie Belle giving her trademark 'puppy dog eyes'. She knew that besides Dinky, Sweetie was the one that was most closest to the purple drake. The yellow filly let out a sigh in defeat and nodded as the other three fillies cheered and quickly but quietly exited the house and followed Twilight and Derpy.

The Frozen North; Unknown Cave

I slowly made my way in the cave with Malefor draped across my back, my horns had reverted back to normal after teleporting away from Manehattan. My body aches as I struggle into the abandoned cave to take shelter from the blizzard outside. I place the unconscious Malefor down and spot a few twigs around the floor. I gather them up in a pile and let out a small spark from my mouth causing them to ignite in an orange flame. Warmth almost instantly fills the cave as I collapse on the ground, not caring for the dirt and snow coming in contact with the cuts and bruises on my body.

I heard the darker version of myself groan in protest as he began to come to, we locked eyes with each other and stood silent, Red gazing at purple irises, he grunts and turns over and breaking eye contact as I do the same. My mind drifts back to Manehattan, hopefully others escaped on the train in time and that Coco is alright. I couldn't get the faces of the other ponies out of my head, the ones filled with fear, sorrow, and hate as they literally watched me beat down there beloved princess of the night. It seemed that all the trust I was trying to gain from suddenly jumped out the window.

Celestia for sure would be on my ass now and there is no way of explaining either, 'Hey Celestia I teamed up with my darker half and beat your sister to near death'. None of this would be happening if I haven't of went to that stupid convention! It's that 'Merchant's' fault! If it wasn't for him none of them would be suffering right now! I grit my teeth and punch the floor causing the ice beneath to crack. Malefor must've heard me judging by his slowly approaching form.

"What the hell do you want?" I growl.

"What I can't have a decent conversation?" he replies.

"After what you've done! You're lucky I'm even talking to you right now."

"What did I do?"

I glare at him as I stood up, trying everything n my willpower not to pounce him, "Are you kidding me! When you first escaped that dam crystal, the first thing you did was attack the princesses and Twilight! Then you beat me half to death, and manged to have me wanted in all of Equestria! And that's all in the same day!"

Malefor shrugged, "At least I saved you."

"Why do I even bother....even though your me you don't care for anyone but yourself."

He seemed to not of liked what i said as I was now pinned, "Look here," he said baring his teeth, "I maybe you, but you know nothing about me! I am currently trying to save a dying race AND had to abandon the only friend I had to save your sorry ass!"

The dark dragon gave out a sigh as he got off of me, letting me get to my feet, "So that blue unicorn.."

"Yes, her name is Trixie. After our battle in Canterlot she was the one who helped me and I've been traveling with her ever since. While traveling we ran into these creatures called changelings, turns out they think I should be their new leader after their queen...passed on. We traveled to Manehattan for passage to the Crystal Empire."

I give Malefor a curious look, this wasn't the same dragon back in Canterlot, "Why the Crystal Empire?"

"We were told that their is an artifact there that produces an infinite power of love, which the changelings feed on. Me and Trixie were going to negotiate with the rulers there to see if we can make an agreement."

I couldn't believe what I was hearing, when did he get so caring? Sure he's still a dick but he is way more sensitive than back in Canterlot. "So you weren't after me then?" I say aloud.

He chuckles, "Of course I wasn't, which reminds me why were you in Manehattan?"

"I was training with other dragons, in hopes to set things straight with the princesses, but you saw how that turned out."

"You surely improved and even learned a few new tricks judging from our fight with that moon bitch. Which reminds me, when did you know how transform like that?"

"Transform?"

"The big ass horns and incredible power."

"Oh...well I don't know it just....I can't explain it, I felt angry that I wasn't going to be strong enough to beat Luna. Then it just broke free, like something just broke out from being locked away, and it just happened. The crazy thing is, I feel like I could do it no problem now..."

"Do you think I could do that too?"

"Probably, since you are me and I could do it, I don't see why you can't either," I let out a chuckle getting a curious look from my darker self. "You know what, you're not that bad."

"I guess I could say the same for you. So...what now?"

I look toward the mouth of the cave and noticed the blizzard still going, "Well, we need to get over the Crystal Empire and judging from all this snow, I assume we're on the right track. We're both pretty banged up right now, so we'll rest up and get our strength back and fly out."

"And the princesses?"

"We'll worry about them when we get to the Crystal Empire."

"Sounds like a plan."

Manehattan Hospital

The lunar princess groaned in pain as she started to regain consciousness, she slowly opened her eyes on for her to close them shut from the bright light. She heard beeping around her, instantly knowing that she was in a hospital. She attempted to open her eyes once again and was resulted in success. She struggled to sit up in her bed ignoring the pain signals her body sent, but a familiar white hoof pushed her chest back down. Luna gave a weak smile when she saw her sister standing before her with the same expression.

"Hello sister..." softly said Luna.

"I'm glad your alright Luna, once I got the news from Canterlot I feared the worst." replied Celestia.

Luna gritted her teeth in anger as the memories of the two dragons flooded her mind, "Sister, did the guards ever catch those dragons?"

"Sister, right now I don't think..."

"Sister, I need to know."

Celestia gave a sigh,"No they didn't. Lulu, you nearly died facing off against James and Malefor...and if my sources are correct James had acquired a new form that makes him even stronger and who knows if Malefor could do the same."

"We could still bring them down."

"Is that 'we' as in us or 'we' as in yourself."

Luna stayed quiet.

Celestia continued, "Luna, this has to stop. Innocent ponies are getting hurt, both physically and mentally. James is not a bad dragon, you can't judge every dragon you come across because of one bad experience."

"But, this 'James', was working with his darker self! How do you explain that!" retorted Luna.

"There has to be a reason Lulu...."

"Then what about the kidnapping of Twilight Sparkle's friends? Applejack and Rarity?"

"You and I both know they were both close to James, why would they both be kidnapped?"

Luna stayed quite and grunted, "Where are the dragons headed now?"

"The guards told me that they were heading up north toward to Crystal Empire."

"Then we should leave immediately and warn Shinning Armor and Princess-"

"No, Shining Armor and Princess Cadence can handle themselves. We are going to stay here until you are recovered then we'll go to the Crystal Empire and resolve things....peacefully."

Luna with a still stern look nodded as Celestia now had a sympathetic look. She knew that her sister had a grudge against dragons but this was out of control. It's a miracle that she's even friends with Spike, but ever since Canterlot, she had gone out of control, locking down the entire country, stationing guards in every settlement, scaring innocent ponies, and her battle here in Manehattan.

"Fine," grumbled Luna, "But if things go out of hand with James. You know what has to be done."

Celestia raised an eyebrow,"You called him James, instead of dragon?"

Luna stayed quiet.

"Alright, the doctors said that you should make a full recovery in two days. Until then I will make my leave, I hope you be well Lulu."

"And you two Celly."

Celestia gave a warm smile and left to room, leaving Luna in her thoughts. Why hadn't the purple dragon finished her off? That is the nature of a dragon wasn't it? Her thoughts drifted back to end of her and James' battle.

Manehattan

He walked up to Luna as she sent him a hateful glare,"Do it dragon...finish me." she said closing her eyes.

"C-Come on, d-do it!" sobbed Luna.

"No." simply answered James as Luna's eyes widened.

"W-what...why?"

"Because I'm proving you wrong. I'm not the monster you labeled me as. And hopefully after this you can see that."

She still didn't understand, dragons were supposed to care for no one but themselves. How could this dragon fight for ones he just met not too long ago? It didn't matter though he was the enemy along with Malefor and those other dragons, and when she gets recovered she doesn't care what her sister says. For she is to blind by love and tolerance to see what's in front of her. She's going to kill James and his posy of dragons and no ones going to stand in her way.

The Frozen North; Unknown Cave

I awake and let out a loud yawn, only for a dark claw to slap over my mouth. I turn to see Malefor giving me the 'shush' gesture and motioned his head outside the cave. The first thing I noticed was the blue transparent horses with glowing white eyes, walking outside the cave seeming to be looking for something. They didn't look friendly either, so I nodded toward Malefor as he nods back and takes his claw from my maw. Me and my darker self quickly and quietly hid behind a nearby boulder as the transparent horses made their way in the cave.

"Have any ideas, what these things are?" whispered Malefor.

"If my memory stands correct from Twilight, these are windigos and they are bad news." I replied.

"Can we take them?"

I shake my head, "Not here no, the colder it is the stronger they get. I'll best chance is to lead them farther into the cave away from the blizzard and use the rock formations to our advantage."

Malefor maws begins to seep out purple flame and gave a confident smirk, "Alright lets do this."

I nod as orange flames formed in my mouth, "Right."

Me and Malefor both jump out our covers and fire our blasts at the pack of windigos causing them to explode on impact. At the moment I thought we had actually killed them, until the transparent horses began to reform and let out an angry whine at the both of us.

"Plan B?" I suggest as Malefor nodded.

"Plan B."

With that said me and Malefor flee deeper into the cave with the windigos chasing after us.

Act 2: A New Destination

View Online

Equestrian Train

Sam sat in an empty cart watching as the snowy ground and mountains passed her view. Bash was with Flashwing in the cart before her keeping her company and looking over her injuries, while the others were up front, where Drobot was driving the train. She let out a sigh as her mind drifted to back to Manehattan. She felt her chest tighten as she remembered leaving that train station without James, while he stayed behind to fend off Princess Luna. Sure he wasn't alone but Princess Luna was a pony you should not trifle with.

"James, please be okay." she whispered to herself as she now glanced at the floor, swinging her tail back and forth.

Her thoughts were broken when the sound of a door caught her attention. The purple dragoness turned her head to see the two mares, Applejack and Rarity, walk in with concerned looks on their faces. The two mares sat in the seats across from her, but didn't say anything, Sam didn't blame them for she didn't know what to say either. The three sat in a moment of silence, until Applejack decided to break it.

"Do ya' miss him?" suddenly asked Applejack as Sam nodded in response.

"Us too, darling." added Rarity.

"Tell me," started Sam gaining the two's attention, "has James been...happy with you ponies?"

Applejack and Rarity noticed the grief in her voice, they had nearly forgotten that her and James had just recently reunited only to be separated once again. Rarity opened her mouth to say something that could ease Sam's mind but Applejack cut her off before she could have the chance.

"Yes, he has," The country mare answered, "And he has made many friends."

Rarity immediately noticed Sam's depressing look and stepped in, "But he has missed you as well, darling-"

"No, it's fine." interrupted Sam, "It's just...does he even love me anymore?"

"Just why would he say that? It's obvious he cares for you."

"Yeah, as a friend, but...as a lover."

"Sugarcube," said Applejack, "I ain't not good with this lovey dovey stuff like Rarity, but ah' can say that he still has some feelings for ya'."

"Some?"

Applejack and Rarity gave each other glances, Sam should know right? That he also caught the heart of three other mares, but hasn't decided. It would be best to not tell her from her condition right now, but when she finds out it'll ruin their friendship, but if they do tell her it might break her already shattered heart. The two mares nodded before turning back to Sam.

"Sam," started Rarity, "Jame's is a good dragon, and he'll never do anything to hurt you or any of us."

"Where are you going with this?" hesitantly said Sam.

"Sugarcube," started Applejack, "What we're tryin' ta' say is that there are three other mare's who also have feelin's for James."

Sam sat silently before answering, "Has he...decided?"

The two mares shook their heads before the dark elemental asked another question, "D-Does he share these feelings."

"It's hard to tell, darling" replied Rarity, "These mare are really close him and good friends of ours, and it is possible but that doesn't mean he hasn't gave up on you."

Sam stayed silent trying to process what she was hearing. Who were the other mares? I guess she couldn't blame him too much, she was supposed to be dead. But...why didn't HE tell her! Yeah, he's not with them but he's not that naive to not know that three mares have feelings for him....but then again. Sam let out a defeated sigh, as she remembered that James isn't....the most observing person.

"I-I want to know about these mares." suddenly asked Sam.

Applejack nodded, "How much do you want ta' know?"

"Everything."

Frozen North; Caverns

Malefor and I ran deeper in the caves until we reached the caverns. The windigos were still close behind and were gaining, the caverns were to cramped so we couldn't fly to gain some extra speed. I ducked as another blast of ice soared over my head, Malefor was doing the same. It was not looking good we weren't that deep in the cave yet to fight these things, it was still too cold. But if this keeps up we'll be icicles before time.

"We won't last long like this." I called out to Malefor beside me.

"No shit." he called back, "Damn it, we have no choice we'll have to take care of them here."

I nod as me and Malefor came to a skidding stop as the windigos started to fly around us. Their ghostly whines echoing through the caves, as if they were celebrating that they finally caught their prey. Me and Malefor stood back to back keeping out eyes on the ghostly horses that surrounded us. From the looks of it there were eight in total, which meant if me and Malefor could take out four each then we'll be in the clear.

One of the windigos decided to charge the both of us causing me and Malefor to separate, Malefor which out wasting anytime fired a ball of purple flame into the windigo's back causing it to howl in pain, but it didn't go down yet as it charged Malefor. I was about to intercept the windigo but two more knocked me to the side, I quickly recovered and dug my claws in the ice beneath me as I came to a skidding stop. I was faced with the four windigos with killing intent in their eyes.

My horns engulfed in flames as I charged, bringing my head down and bashing one in the chest knocking it back, before I swept another one with my tail tripping it and digging my teeth into its neck and tossing it aside. I spread my wings and fly up dodging an ice blast from one of them and returning a flame blast of my own. I was surprised to see the windigo freeze the fire in it's place causing it to drop to the ground like a rock. I was caught off guard as one of the windigos struck my back from above knocking me to the snow below.

"Damn," I wheeze out, "For being made of ice these guys are no joke."

You would think that a fire breathing dragon versus four horses made of ice would be an easy win, but when their fighting in the middle of a blizzard it's not. I pick my self up from the snow and jump to the side from another ice blast, I couldn't fly because of this tight space so I can't attack them blindly.

I look up and a light bulb appeared over my head as I noticed the ice-sickles above the windigos. I took a deep breath and sent a ball of fire to the ceiling causing a fiery explosion causing the debris of the ice-sickles to land on the two windigos, crushing them instantly. I look behind me to see the other two windigo's that had recovered from my charge earlier.

"Two down, two to go." I breath out, "Luckily that didn't bring the whole cave down on top of us."

I take a quick glance to the side and saw that Malefor had been having better luck with him already destroying three of his windigos with his purple flames and was already facing off with his last one. "We don't have time for this," I say to myself, "the more time we waste here, the more time we lose on getting to the Crystal Empire."

I teleport in a flash of flame and appear behind one of the windigos and knock it to the ground. The other one tries to help it's comrade but I powerful flap of my wings summoned the air magic knocking it away hard enough to crash through several pillars and smash into pieces on the nearby wall. I turn back to the last remaining windigo and dodge a stab from its horn and chomp down on it's neck and pulled. It whined in pain as I separated it's head from it's body before breaking down in chunks of ice.

I sit out the chunks of ice in my mouth and looked over to Malefor who had just crushed the head of the last windigo in his claw before making his way over to me. We glanced over to where we came from and noticed that the way that we came from was completely sealed off in rocks and ice, preventing us from turning back, probably caused from when I launched that fire ball at the ceiling.

"Well, shit," grumbled my darker half, "what do we do know, since you sealed us off?"

"Oh shut up, " I retorted, "It's obvious we head deeper in the cave."

Malefor gives me an "are you serious" look, "Really? And what if it's a dead end?"

"I don't think so, usually caves that have caverns like these has more than one way out. SO we're bound to find some sort of opening. The only problem is that this cave is to tight and crowded, so if we get attacked again, we're pretty much screwed if we can't even move around."

Malefor rolled his eyes, before crossing his arms and giving off a cocky grin, "Please, those windigos were nothing. If my memory serves right you were the one having a little trouble."

"I'm sorry, who was the one that beat Princess Luna and saved both of us?", Malefor's grin vanished as he stood there with a silent glare, "Yeah, that's what I thought."

"Asshole."

Fluttershy's Cottage

Twilight and Derpy stood in front of Fluttershy's home, with determined expressions. The two felt kind of guilty giving Flutters the news, she had just recently started feeling better. They could hear her singing coming form the inside and noticed how happy she was. Twilight even thought about not telling Fluttershy and then jumping on the train with Derpy, but she decided against it. Fluttershy was one of the ponies James first bonded with she has more than the right to know.

Twilight nodded as Derpy acknowledged and then quickly knocked on the door. The singing from inside stopped and the door opened to see not Fluttershy but, the deer, Evelyn instead. The teenage deer gave them confused looks before a smile came to her face. "Hello Ms.Twilight, Ms.Derpy, can I help you?" she asked with an innocent expression.

"Hi Evelyn," replied Twilight, "Is Fluttershy home? It's really important that we talk to her."

Evelyn's smiled dropped, "I-Is it about, M-Mr.James?"

The two ponies nodded.

Evelyn didn't say a word as she went back inside the cottage, Twilight and Derpy stood their for a few moments before the familiar yellow mare known as Fluttershy came in the door way. She looked like she had seen better days, her mane frazzled and a sad smile on her face, they both noticed Bolt beside trying to give her as much comfort as he can.

"Twilight, Derpy? What is it?" asked Fluttershy.

"Fluttershy, they found him." answered Twilight as Fluttershy's eyes went wide.

"R-Really! I-Is he okay! Did he get hurt! Where is-"

"Fluttershy, calm down," stepped in Derpy, "The guards found him in Manehattan and then escaped toward the Crystal Empire."

"Wait.." realized Fluttershy, "Didn't Applejack and Rarity go to Manehattan for the Cutie Map?"

"Yes, and that's the problem, " replied Twilight, "the guards have claimed that James and...Malefor attacked Manehattan, put Princess Luna in the hospital, and kidnapped Applejack and Rarity."

"But James will never do such a thing!"

"Which is why we're going to the Crystal Empire and sort things out with Shining and Cadence. Things had gotten out of hoof and if we don't put a stop to it, I'm afraid something bad is going to happen. Rainbow and Pinkie are already waiting at the train station for us."

Fluttershy nodded, "Alright, I'll go tell Evelyn that I'll e gone for a few days and me and Bolt we'll go with you."

"Bolt is coming too?" asked Derpy.

"Of course, Bolt misses him too. I if there is a chance to see him again I won't keep that from him."

Derpy and Twilight nodded and Fluttershy dissipated back in the cottage to inform the deer of the situation. After a few moments the yellow mare came out of the cottage with the white shepherd by her side and nodded in confirmation telling them that they were ready. The three mares then quickly left the cottage to meet Rainbow and Pinkie at the train station.

Equestrian Train

"And that's everythin'" finished Applejack.

Sam nodded as she took in all the information she gather on Twilight, Derpy , and Fluttershy form the two mares. From the sound of it they were all good girls, so she didn't worry...much. It still made her feel uneasy that these mares all have feelings for James and he might have the same back, but....she couldn't blame him she was supposed to be dead...gone...forever.

"Sam dear," started Rarity, "I'm not trying to bring down your hopes or bring them up but....be ready."

Sam gave her a confused look, "Ready?"

"What Rarity here," added Applejack,"Is that the Twi', Flutters, and Derpy aren't planning on sharing James and from your reaction as well neither are you. Ah'm not picking any sides but all ah have to say is, if you love James as much as ya' do tell him when ya' get the chance."

"She's right dear," came in Rarity, "And I'm sure they will be doing the same and who ever James picks....I hope your still happy....like your day at the movies."

Sam's eyes widened, "H-how..."

"James told me everything from your first date to when you ended up in the hospital..."

"You don't have to say anymore....he really cares for you ponies does he?"

Applejack nodded, "He does, but he cares for you and the other dragons on this train as well. So don't ya' think he's not thinking about ya'."

Sam felt the tears run down her cheeks as she nodded, she felt Applejack and Rarity on both sides of her rubbing her back. Everyday Sam would think why this 'Merchant' had even visited her in that her in that hospital room in the first place. Why did she even agree to what he offered!? She should've known it was a scam from the start! Since then James had been living without her thinking that she was dead when reality she was transported to a world she was unfamiliar with!

Now here he was again, years later and he is still hurting after that day at the moments. Blaming himself that he should've been strong enough to stop that guy with the gun. The door to the cabin opening brought the three's attention as the familiar blue unicorn, known as Trixie walked in. She noticed their situation and instantly became guilty for ruining the moment that was happening.

"The metal dragon said we'll be arriving in the Crystal Empire shortly." she said, "He also said to be ready for we don't know how they'll react when they see us exit the train."

"Thank ya', Trixie." replied Applejack.

Trixie only nodded as she left the cabin leaving the three alone. Sam sniffed and wiped the remaining tears and stood from her seat, as Applejack and Rarity did the same.

"I'll go inform Bash and Flashwing." she said, "You two go and see if Drobot needs any help."

The two nodded knowing that Sam needed some space for a while and left the cabin as well. Sam let out a sad sigh before leaving the cabin as well hoping things will go smoothly, but deep down she knew she was wrong.

Crystal Empire

A crystal guard bowed before his rulers after taking off his helmet in respect. He had just gotten the news from Canterlot and had rushed all the way from headquarters to their royal highness's himself to relay the message.

"Princess Cadence and Prince Armor," stated the guard, "I've come to inform you that the hijacked train form Canterlot containing the dragons his close to arriving."

Cadence and Shining's eyes widened, the two were confused on the whole situation taking place. Celestia and Luna had informed them that the dragons and this James and Malefor, were dangerous and were to be contained for questioning. At the same time though, form Twilight's letters it was all a big misunderstanding and that James wouldn't hurt any anybody for the joy of it.

"Captain," stated Shining causing the guard to stand at attention, "I want you to take a squad and clear out the train station, Do not engage the dragons unless your are attacked first. Do you understand?"

The guard nodded, "Yes, Prince Shining Armor! I'll leave at once!"

With that said, the guard quickly galloped out the throne room leaving the couple to their thoughts.

"You really think we can trust these dragons, Shiny?" asked Cadence in an unsure manner.

"If Twily, says that they're no harm, Then I'll take her word for it, she hasn't let me down before." replied Shining.

"But what about Auntie Celestia and Luna? They said that they were not to be taken lightly...ugh...all of this is so confusing! I wish we knew what's going on!"

"I do too, and we're about too, once those dragons arrive," Shining Armor nuzzled his wife as she did so back, "And we'll see what the truth really is."

Act 2: A New Empire

View Online

Frozen North; Unknown Caverns

"Hey.." called Malefor as he and James were walking through the caves.

"Yeah?" replied James.

"I need to know, how did you unlock that power back at Manehattan?"

James stayed silent, he...didn't really know how he did it, he just..did. Could be him trying to keep the one he cares for safe? It does make sense, it really pissed him off when Luna said that she was going to track down every single person he cared for. She couldn't have meant it though right? That would have meant she would have to hurt Fluttershy, Derpy, Twilight, and the others, including Dinky, Spike, and the CMC. But from the way she said it it sounded pretty convincing.

Manehattan; Flashback

"Y-you c-crazy b-bitch, " spat out James, "W-Why cant y-y-you s-see th-that I'm on your s-side."

"Because you are not! And that goes for every other dragon I find! Even that Sam character, I'll make sure she gets some special treatment."
James narrowed his eyes at that as something in him snapped, it felt just like that night back on earth. Him and Sam leaving the movies, the guy with the gun, him being helpless and reckless to stop the gunfire, to him crying in the hospital. He was NOT going to lose her again, not if he had anything to say about it!

James let out a primal roar knocking the princess of the moon off her hooves and breaking her hold on James, "I WON'T LET YOU!" screamed James as a fire like aura began to surround him. His horns started to glow and extend as did his height, soon his whole body was engulfed in a fiery ember.

"You won't lay a single fucking hoof, on the ones I care for!"

"To tell you the truth," started James, "I don't know how I did it, Princess Luna talked about hurting some one I cared for and I just...snapped."

"So basically, it comes out through strong emotions," concluded Malefor.

"I guess so, but the thing is it feels like I can do it when ever now, but i don't think it's going to be enough to take on Princess Luna again."

"Why?"

"Oh come on, you know that Princess Luna is way stronger than both of us. The only reason why you won against her back in Canterlot was because you caught her off guard. And if the beating back in Manehattan isn't enough proof then I don't know what is. Plus it was obvious that she was holding back for most of the fight."

"The bitch does move the moon." admitted Malefor putting a claw to his chin as he thought about what James was explaining to him. He was right, if Luna was this powerful they needed to get stronger. And who knows how strong Celestia is since she moves the freaking sun! The dark dragon also needed this transformation as well, Luna smarter than she looks and probably figure from the direction of the train that we'll be heading to the Crystal Empire and is probably making her way over there right now.

And if Celestia is with her then he'll need to master that transformation and his lighter half will have to do the same if they were going to survive the Crystal Empire.

"Then I will also unlock this transformation as well," stated Malefor, "Then we'll have a chance if Luna show up."

James nodded, "But what if Celestia shows up? Like I said, we barely survived against Luna...."

"And you beat her easily when you transformed, and if I transform as well be able to handle them just fine. Plus isn't Celestia on our side?"

"Kind of, She doesn't trust and wants us brought in, but she doesn't want to hurt us, let alone kill us. If we're really going to do this then we'll need to stay here for a while and use this as training grounds."

Malefor nodded in agreement, "Then we'll start with me unlocking this transformation and then head to the Crystal Empire. What worries me is the others when they arrive at the Crystal Empire and Luna is there."

"Me too, but I have faith that they'll be okay. they all know why we were going to the Crystal Empire in the first place so they should know what to do when they get there."

"Alright, then let's get started," said Malefor as he caught the purple drake off guard by striking him in the cheek sending him against the wall. James snapped from his daze and glared at Malefor who had a smug grin.

"Could at least gave me a warning, jack-ass!" shouted James before charging Malefor.

"And what fun would that be?" replied Malefor before charging as well.

The two dragons then clashed shaking the ground below them and not caring if they brought down the cavern or not.

Crystal Empire; Train Station

The group that consisted of, Sam, Rarity, Applejack, Drobot, Trixie, and an injured Flashwing watched from a cabin as the train came to a complete stop. The first thing they noticed wasn't the emptiness of the train station when they arrived, but the squad of Crystal Guards waiting for them. Flashwing had regained consciousness and had a wing and arm draped over Bash's back for support. Applejack and Rarity went to the front of the group with determined expressions, but couldn't shake the worry of what might happen when they opened the doors.

"Remember ya'll, we're not here for a fight. We're here to get Flashwing some help." stated Applejack.

"And to get to convince Shining Armor and Princess Cadence that James is on our side." added Rarity.

"And what happens when things don't go as planned?" questioned Bash.

"It will, you just have to have faith that..."

"I believe having a back up plan, will increase our odds of survival," stated Drobot, cutting off Rarity, "If we go along with this plan there is only a sixty-two percent chance of success."

Rarity scrunched up her face, "Survival? I'm sure Shining Armor and Princess Cadence-"

Bash stepped up, "Look at us! Ponies has seen dragons has greedy beasts that only know how to pillage and steal. Like some band of pirates, I'm not saying all ponies are like that but I'm just stating the facts! Now tell me what do you thinks going to happen when they see four dragons walk in the throne room after leaving a stolen train and on the run from the royal guard with a wanted fugitive!"

Rarity stood quiet, honestly already knew about what Bash said. She just didn't want to be the one to say it, for she didn't care what happened she had to do it for James, her now adoptive brother. She also knew that Applejack felt the same but the two dragons were right if so much as a tiny speck of them becomes unnatural they would be killed on sight. If only they knew how heroic these dragons were-

"Actually there might be a way." said Rarity gaining the dragons attention.

"And what would that be?" weakly said Flashwing.

"Back at home we are friends with another dragon named Spike. He is well known here and is treated like a hero for saving the Empire twice."

"Two good deeds from one dragon won't earn the trust of the ponies out there." started Sam.

"She does have a point." agreed Applejack.

"So we just improvise, great." grumbled Bash.

Flashwing gave her mate a comforting look, "It'll be fine, as long as we don't prove to be a threat then we should be fine."

"And what happens when things don't go as planned?" said Trixie, "Even with Malefor and James' power, Trixie is certain that they can handle a whole army of crystal guards."

"That reminds me Trixie," said Applejack with a stern glare, "How did ya' and that varmint meet anyway?"

"First he is not a 'varmit', he's just...not as nice. Trixie found him injured in her wagon and she took it upon her self to nurse him back to health."

"You do know he is the reason why we're all in this mess." added Rarity.

"Trixie does....I don't not care, Malefor is....the first friend I ever had. If he as bad as you all say he is I should've been dead a long time ago!" , the group noticed the tears stating to form in the blue unicorns eyes as she continued, "You say it is wrong to judge somepony, but you are judging Malefor for trying to defend who is!"

"Trixie...he attacked the princess and James-", Rarity tried to explain.

"Because they had weapons pointed in his face when he first got there! What was he supposed to do!"

"Enough!" shouted Sam causing the three ponies to be quiet "Arguing isn't getting us closer to what we have to do."

Drobot nodded, "Correct, the longer we stay here the more time Princess Luna recovers and makes her way over here."

"And then you can kiss our plan goodbye." added Bash.

The three ponies nodded in understanding before turning to the door of the cart, before slowly opening it causing the cool air to rush in the cart. Applejack stepped out first, followed by Rarity, Trixie, and then the dragons. The guards that were waiting for them immediately tensed and raised their weapons. Bash was about to get ready for him but a lone cough got his attention as he turned to Flashwing shaking her head, making him drop his guard.

The dragons noticed that the guards here were different then the ones back in Equestria, instead their armor were a bright silver and instead of the wooden spears with metal tips, they were just all metal in general. One of the guards stepped up more armored then the rest, which meant he was some sort of officer.

"My name is Captain Starfire," said the guard, "and I'm ordered to escort you all to their royal Highness's. If there is any resistance from the dragons then we will not hesitate to put them down."

"I guess some things never change," muttered Bash.

"Do you accept." called out the guard.

"We do." Called back Rarity.

Captain Starfire nodded before motioning the group to follow him, which they complied. The other guards then surrounded the group in a oval formation as they escorted the three ponies and four dragons into the city of the Crystal Empire."

Frozen North; Unknown Caverns

The ground shook as the two purple dragons clashed with their horns once again. Head pressed against each other trying to over power the other, a purple ember like aura consumed Malefor as an orange ember like aura consumed James as they both increased their power. the flames mixed causing a reaction before exploding and knocking the dragons in opposite direction and skidding across the snow. Malefor stood up and growled before spitting out blood.

"This is getting us no where." grumbled Malefor, "by this rate i won't be able to unlock the transformation in time."

James wobbled to stay up right with heavy breaths, "That's because your fighting without feelings."

"When did you get all 'sensei' all of a sudden?"

"I'm serious, when I transformed it was for a need to protect the ones I care for not a desire. What do you need to do?"

"I need..." Malefor paused, "I need to get the Crystal Empire and protect the changelings and...Trixie."

James' eyes widened, he never knew his darker half had such a soft side. Trying to protect an entire race and a mare he grown quiet fond of. Wow, was Malefor really having feelings for that blue unicorn? It wouldn't surprise him by the way they act towards each other back in Canterlot you almost thought they were married. A light bulb brightened over his head as an idea came into his head.

"Malefor," said James, "I want you to think that you failed the changelings and Trixie."

"What!?", yelled Malefor, "Why the hell will I do that?"

"Because your weak."

"Watch it James..."

"What? You know its true! Maybe I should go and you should stay here since you can't unlock the transformation."

Malefor, not taking it anymore, then charged James, "I'll show you who's weak!"

Before James could react purple bolts of lightning struck his chest sending him on his back. Malefor pounced on top of him and bit into his side picking him up and tossing him through a nearby by pillar causing it to collapse in ice and snow. James struggled back to his feet and nearly dodged a fire blast from the dark dragon. James sent one of his own as Malefor sent another the two colliding in an explosion.

Taking the opportunity James opened his maw and a barrage bubbles covered Malefor, robbing hi of his sight. James then spread his wings and flew forward and swiping him with his tail and sending him across the snow.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-FaGnpi85s

"Come on is that all you got! I guess the changelings and Trixie were wrong to put their trust in you." taunted James, in reality he was in a tight space. Right now he and Malefor were evenly matched, he could have transformed and sped up the process of getting Malefor angry enough but then that would add the risk of knocking him out cold. A loud roar caught his as Malefor came out of the snow in an explosion of purple fire, with the intent to kill burning in his red eyes.

"I don't know what has gotten into to you James," growled Malefor, "But I'm going to beat you to a fucking pulp!"

Malefor then was engulfed in a purple light causing James to cover his eyes, once the light dimmed he eyes widened when he saw Malefor be fore him in his new transformation. His dark scales were even darker and looked more tough then before, he grew a few inches, his silver horns stretched and curved, his spines on his back and tail were sharper and his red eyes were as fierce as ever.

"Took you long enough," said James as he was engulfed in an orange light and revealed him in his transformed form as well. With that said the two over powered dragons stared at each other before charging.

Manehattan; Hospital

Luna waited in her room as Celestia was signing the forms for her release outside. Thankfully due to her alicorn biology she was able to get a full recovery in no time. She stood gazing out the window of the busy streets of Manehattan, her mind drifting to the dragons known as James and Malefor. It disgusted her how that purple dragon could act so nice to the ponies she loved only to run off with a criminal.

She had looked in the dreams of his loved ones, specially Fluttershy and felt guilty at how much they trusted him and how they wanted him back, but sadly they don't know the truth of the dragon. How he cares for nothing but his well being and property like all dragons do, minus Spike of course. To be honest she was hesitant when she first met the baby dragon, but she convinced herself that he was a baby. And like all babies they need to be taught and guided.

James however was full grown and knows right from wrong. She will not let any of the ponies suffer from the pain she had all those years ago. The lunar princess' expression softened at the thought of the dragon Shenron. They were supposed to be best friends him and her against the world, but...when she needed him most he wasn't there. Yeah, it was the time when she was corrupted by Nightmare Moon but he should have at least been there to snap her out of it!

The sound of the door opening caught Luna's attention as her sister came into the room, "Everything is set Luna," said Celestia, "The train to the Crystal Empire is waiting for us at the station."

"Alright sister, then we shouldn't waste any time." replied Luna as she was about to walk out the door but was stooped by the outstretched wing of Celestia.

"Luna before we leave, there is a chance that James and the other dragons might be in the Crystal Empire as well," Luna's face grew serious as she was about to speak but was cut off by Celestia, "Before you say anything the Empire is still intact, but when we arrive I want your word that you will not harm or do anything to provoke the dragons. Is that understood?"

"Since when did you become my mother?" grumbled Luna.

"When you decide to put innocent lives at risk! Your acting like a child Luna!"

"I rather act like child than a monster!"

"Luna you are not leaving Manehattan until I have your word that you will not harm the dragons."

Luna glared at her sister, sometimes she really got under her skin when she tried to take charge of her. Although it was for her own good, "Fine" Luna submitted, "I will 'try' not to do anything that will cause conflict."

Celestia let out a sigh of relief, "Thank you, Luna. When we get there I hope you realize that the dragons are not as you see them to be. Come, we shouldn't let the train wait for us."

"Of course sister." replied Luna as she followed her out of the room.

Act 2: A New Interrogation

View Online

Crystal Empire; Crystal Palace

The group of seven had finally been escorted by the guards to the Crystal Palace. The three ponies, known as Applejack, Rarity, and Trixie were nervous on how all of this is going to plan out. Sam and Flashwing seemed to be the more relaxed of the group, while Bash and Drobot were the most tense, with both of them thinking of back up plans just in case things went south. The group were stopped in front of two large double doors which they all assumed was the throne room. The guards then nod to each other in confirmation and open the doors letting the group inside.

Princess Cadence and Prince Shining Armor were there at the other end of the throne room watching as the group were being escorted in by the guards. The two would've been happy to see Applejack and Rarity again, but with what's going they had to be careful. Judging by how they walked in with the dragons and some other unicorn mare. It confirms their suspicions that MAYBE they weren't taken against their will. Sadly it only raised more questions on why they were assumed to be kidnapped in the first place.

"Your highnesses," Captain Starfire bowed, "We have escorted the group here as you requested."

"Thank you Captain," replied Cadence, "please clear the room. We'll take it from here."

Starfire nodded and escorted himself and the other guards from the throne room. Once the door closed there was a brief moment of silence between the two parties. After a few more moments Applejack decided to break the tension.

"It's really nice to see ya' again, Princess Cadence and Prince Shining Armor." the orange mare said.

"It's great to see you too Applejack, Rarity also," started Shining Armor, "But we both know while you were escorted by guards."

"Shining Armor," stepped up Rarity, "With all do respect these dragons-"

"No need Rarity, we can already tell that these dragons are non-hostile." explained Cadence causing most of the group to sigh in relief.

"But that doesn't mean that they aren't dangerous." sternly said Shining Armor, "Me and Cadence are hearing a whole bunch of stories on what happened in Canterlot and Manehattan. Which comes to the question, where is the dragon called James that Twily mentioned?"

"James isn't with us at the moment." suddenly stepped in Sam getting her a few glances from Shining and Cadence.

"Isn't with you? Where is he?"

Before Applejack or Rarity could answer Bash stepped in with Flashwing draped over his back, "We'll talk on one condition." said the earth elemental.

"I don't think you're in position to make demands." said Shining Armor with a stern look as Bash gave him one back.

"I think I do. We are the only ones who knows what really is going on. And if you want the TRUTH then I suggest you listen what I have to say."

"Alright, alright," said Cadence, "We're not here to fight, what are your terms."

Bash's features soften and motioned to Flashwing on his back, "My mate, Flashwing, is injured. She was hit with a magic infused arrow that dragon magic cannot fix, but pony magic can. Please fix her."

The groups all his surprised expressions at how desperate Bash was acting right now. Just a few moments ago he was planning to barge in her by force, but now here he is begging Princess Cadence and Shining Armor for help. The two royal ponies expression fell, they knew where the dino-like dragon was coming from. No wonder he has been so tense, he is just worried for the pon- dragon that he loves. Shining Armor was more in relation though, for he knew he would be in the exact same position position if the roles were reversed and something had happened to Cadence.

Cadence nodded and made her may toward the dragons with her horn glowing a bright blue. Bash was on the defensive until he saw the look in Cadences' eyes, they were filled with love and compassion, and also worry. Bash dropped his guard and gently laid Flashwing gently on the floor in front of him. His eyes widened when Flashwing was was enveloped in the same blue glow and her wound started to close. The glow around the white dragoness disappeared and could be heard letting out small breaths indicating that she was asleep.

"Thank you." whispered Bash as he comforted his sleeping lover.

"Don't mention it," said Cadence, "It doesn't matter what the creature is. Nobody should see their loved one hurt."

"Alright, you two said you wanted answers on whats been happening correct?"

"Yes," nodded Shining, "We want to know everything, starting to where you first met this James."

Equestrian Train; Frozen North

Fluttershy sat quietly in the train, watching as the snow rushed passed them. She had a solemn look on her features and her stomach were filled with a swarm of butterflies. She was happy that she was going to see the purple dragon known as James once again, but it also worried her on what would happen when they do reunite. From what she heard from Twilight, James has supposedly teamed up with other dragons including Malefor, kidnapped Applejack and Rarity, and went up North to have an audience in the Crystal Empire.

None of this made sense to her. She knew James and he would never do any of those malice things that they said. She looks to the rest of the group and took note on what they were all doing. Bolt was resting peacefully beside her, Rainbow and Pinkie seemed to be talking about what they were going to do once we reached the Crystal Empire and found James, and Twilight and Derpy were conversing about something probably trying to come up with a plan.

She let out a sad sigh as glanced back out the window until she felt a tap on her shoulder. She turned her head to see Twilight and Derpy standing there with worried expressions.

"Fluttershy," said Twilight, "Can we speak to you in the other cart?"

The yellow pegasus nodded and followed the two mares, leaving Bolt to sleep peacefully on the seat. She and Derpy walked in as Twilight shut the door and put a sound proof barrier around the inside the cart so nopony else would be able to ease drop on their conversation. Fluttershy didn't know what the two mares wanted to talk about but she had an idea. Judging by their expression and how all three of them needed to talk, it was mostly about James. She knew that the two mares also were having feelings for the purple dragon, she might be shy and timid but she wasn't stupid.

"What is it you wanted to talk about?" asked Fluttershy.

"Well..." stated Derpy, but hesitated to say anything else.

"It's about James." stepped in Twilight.

Fluttershy could only nod.

"When we get to the Crystal Empire," continued Twilight, "We don't know what to expect. There has been a lot of rumors going around and I don't know which of them true. But what I'm trying to say is that we should prepare for the worse."

Fluttershy's eyes widened, "Wh-What do you mean by that?" she asks hesitantly.

"Twilight shook her head, "I don't know, it could mean a lot of things judging on the rumors. I just don't want any surprises, especially if the Princesses decides to show up. But that's not the only thing we brought you here for."

Fluttershy nodded as Derpy decided to speak, "We...all know that we all care for James, and that he cares for us as well. The only thing is that we all started to develop feelings for him. So, me and Twilight decided that....we should start a herd."

"Wh-What?" stuttered Fluttershy, "I-I can't...I m-mean...starting a herd with a dragon...i-it hasn't been done before."

"That's why we are going to be the first." said Twilight, "Fluttershy, do you love him?"

The yellow pegasus nodded.

"Me and Derpy feel the same way. This is the only way we can all be happy."

"What if he doesn't want to be in a herd." suddenly said Derpy catching the other two off guard. What if he doesn't want to be in a herd? Then that would mean it would have t be either one of them.

"If that's the case," started Fluttershy, "Then we leave the choice to James, and let the best mare win."

Crystal Empire; Crystal Palace

"So that's everything that has happened?" asked Shining.

The group nodded.

"What do you think Cadence?"

Cadence had an uncertain look on her face, "I don't know. Auntie Luna always didn't get along with dragons, but to go far and try to kill them?"

Sam stepped up, "I know this is hard to hear for both of you, but it's the truth."

"So why come here?" questioned Shining.

"It is the logical solution," started Drobot, "If we try to clear James' name with the Princesses we are seventy-five percent more likely to be killed on sight or at least locked up. But if we have a forty percent chance of failure if we went to you two and gain support."

The two rulers of the Crystal Empire gave each other a look. If what they say is true then it would make sense for them to come here. All of Equestria is probably looking for these dragons now. Plus Applejack, Rarity, and..that other pony....Trixie was it? Why would they have to lie? They had to admit that it did sound rather strange that this Malefor would go to try and save a race after almost killing the Princesses and James in Canterlot.

The two ponies looked at each other both coming to a mental understanding before nodding and turning back to the group of dragons and three ponies.

"We are sorry to hear about the events that you all had to go through," started Cadence causing the mood of the group to raise a little, "But..."

"But what?" concernedly asked Rarity.

"We can't make a final decision until we hear the other side of the story." explained Shining.

"What!?" yelled Bash stepping toward the white stallion, "So what you're saying is that you don't believe us!"

Shining Armor stood his ground and started in a stern tone, "What we are saying is that we can't believe until we hear what the princesses say. We and my wife were kept in the dark about this. So we need proof on what to believe, so until the princesses get here...."

"Wait, wait, wait..." cut off Sam, "Both of the princesses are coming? How did they know we were coming here?"

"We called them once we got word that you were coming in our direction from Manehattan." answered Cadence.

"The two alicorns that want us dead is literally coming here!" yelled Bash, "Are you out of your damned minds!"

"It's the only way we can straighten this out!" shot back Shining, "If we can get all of us in one room, then maybe we can resolve this peacefully."

"Maybe Shining here is right," said Applejack, "It is the best chance we got."

"And what if it fails?" said Trixie, "Trixie doesn't know all about Malefor but he isn't that bad of a dragon. You all heard from someone who has been around him the most. He is willing to save a doomed race from extinction."

"A race that nearly took over all of Equestria!" added Rarity.

"That was because they had no choice! They needed to survive!"

"Mrs. Trixie," started Cadence, "We all know your feelings for the dark dragon, but like we said before we can't trust anything until we have more information or proof."

"Wh-What do you mean feelings!" blushed Trixie.

"Mrs. Trixie you can't fool me. I am the Princess of Love after all."

"Be it may. You are wrong!" said Trixie blushing even more, "Me and Malefor are just partners nothing more."

"You didn't sound like partners a couple seconds ago." stated Applejack.

"Sh-Shut up!"

Before anything else was said a random guard rushes through the doors and into the throne catching everyone's attention. The guard quickly ran toward the Cadence and Shining dismissing the other group and bowing. "I humbly apologize for my interruption your highnesses, but we have just been informed the Princes Celestia and Luna will be here in approximately thirty minutes." he says as Cadence and Shining's eyes widened.

They didn't expect them to come this early, they wanted to work things out with the dragons before they got here and by judging how their conversation went, they needed more time. The group of dragons weren't looking any much better, if anything they all, minus Flashwing who was still resting on Bash's back, looked furious and depressed. Applejack, Rarity, and Trixie just stood there like statues no knowing what to do. The silence was broken when Cadence responded to the guards report.

"Thank you, go inform the rest of the guard to prepare for their arrival." commanded Cadence as the guard nodded before leaving she turned her attention back to the group especially the dino-like dragon as he said one phrase.

"Well....fuck."

Frozen North; Sky

After me and Malefor's fight in the caverns, we managed to find a way out of the caves an back in the snowy outside. The blizzard had stopped which was good since it allowed us to fly. My thoughts drift back to the others on the train hoping they made it to the Empire alright and are still okay when me and Malefor arrive. I feel guilty for leaving them but it was the only way to get Luna off their tails so they could reach the Crystal Empire.

I have to be honest though, if it wasn't for Malefor showing up at the last second.....I don't think I would ever be able to pull it off. Maybe he wasn't so bad after all. Now me and him are flying through the cold air towards the Crystal Empire, thank god for turning me into a dragon so then the cold the cold won't affect me as much. I glance to the side and saw Malefor flying by my side with a determined look on his features. He must really care for these changelings if he is willing to fight Luna and to go through a blizzard. Which reminds me.

"Hey Malefor." I call out gaining his attention.

"What is it?" he reply's sharply.

"So why are you helping the changelings anyways? I thought you only did things yourself?"

He was silently for a few moments before answering, "Because I...no..we both know what it's like to be bullied because we're different."

I knew what he was talking about. I...well technically we used to get bullied all the time back on Earth, it stopped once I got to college but that doesn't make me oblivious what people thought of me every time I walked in a room or down a hall. Is Malefor saying that the changelings have been 'bullied' by the ponies?

"What do you mean?" I ask as Malefor grunted in disgust.

"The ponies that you care so much for, aren't as they seem. It is true that changelings attacked Canterlot and kidnapped Princess Cadence in the process, but that was out of desperation."

I am now intrigued at this, "What do you mean?"

"The changelings main food source is strong emotions, specifically love. It doesn't normally cause any harm unless used to much, because of that they were feared and treated as a threat," Malefor growled as he continued, "When I went to the changeling hive, I saw their expressions, I saw their hunger. That's when I realized that the only reason why the changelings...Chrysalis...attacked Canterlot was to feed her children! I bet she asked, no, begged the Princesses for help but was turned away every time!"

I could detect the hostility and emotion in his voice, "Where is Chrysalis now?"

Malefor's expression fell as he looked forward, "She's dead. I don't know if it was the stress or the heartbreak of seeing her subjects suffer, but I do know that it's those ponies fault. Now James tell me, are these ponies as caring as you think they are?"

"To be honest, I stopped thinking that after Canterlot."

"Then why do you still care for them? After what they did to you? To us?!"

"Because they are not all like that! Hell, I wouldn't even be alive right now if it weren't for three adorable fillies! Yeah they have their flaws but doesn't everyone have? You can't judge an entire race out of a few individuals, you do that and your no better than Princess Luna herself."

That must've struck something as Malefor stopped mid flight causing me to stop as well, I could see him trembling a bit, "Those ponies will only see me as a monster after what happened at Canterlot, all those ponies do! There is not one who will forgive me."

"What about the Trixie girl?"

"..."

"Malefor?"

"Trixie is....tolerable. She is only a partner I can work with, nothing more."

"Even though she is only pony to actually accept you for who you are?"

"If your suggesting that I love-"

"I'm not saying that at all, just don't be so quick to judge."

Malefor grumbled and turned his head away, "Fine. Let's get a move one, we are wasting to much time. Lets just hope nothing is going down when we get there."

With that said Malefor flapped his dark wings and continued his flying a little faster than usual. I let out a sigh thinking back at what Malefor said about the changelings. I have to be honest, if I was Malefor's position I would probably do the same thing....hehe...I guess he really is me. I start to fly to catch up with Malefor only to be caught off guard two random bolts of yellow lightning rains down from the sky toward me and Malefor.

On instinct me and Malefor dodge the bolts and start to look around for anyone that could've sent that our way-

"You two were supposed to be hit by those you know." said a voice as me and Malefor turned in form of us to see....something. I know this world has some weird creatures, but this shit is just crazy! Standing before is a serpent...dragon...thing...with the head of a goat a talon, lions, paw, hooves, and other assortment of animal parts.

"Allow me to introduce my self," said the creature with a bow as me and Malefor were giving him stern looks, "My name is DIscord, Spirit of Chaos and Disharmony. And I'm afraid I can't let you two to past."

Before me and Malefor could react his talon and paw glowed a bright yellow and engulfing the sky in a yellow explosion.

Act 2: A New Obstacle

View Online

Frozen North

I pick myself up off the snowy ground and looking to my left to see Malefor doing the same. Our attention was turned to a laughing Discord floating down in front of us. That name though...why did it sound so familiar? It didn't matter now though, he was blocking me and Malefor's way to the Crystal Empire and we had to get past him.

I look to my left to see my darker half sending glares at the creature above us, who was sitting in a lawn chair sipping on a glass of lemonade. I already know that I'm going to get a headache because of this guy. Discord glances in our direction floats downward, in front of me and Malefor.

"I'm surprised dragons," he says in a cocky tone, "You managed to tank that without a scratch."

"What the hell do you want with us!?" exclaimed Malefor.

"I'm just doing a little favor for a certain princess you might know."

My eyes widen, "Luna," I spat, "Now I know where I heard your name. Fluttershy told me about you. Aren't you supposed to be a good guy now?"

Discord's face dropped to a frown once I mentioned Fluttershy's name, "Don't you dare speak her name! You don't deserve too! You were the one that hurt dear Fluttershy! Because of you she hasn't been her kind self!"

I feel my stomach fill up with guilt, he was right. Fluttershy was probably devastated when she heard of my disappearance, and was probably depressed because of it. But this was all going to change once me and Malefor reach the Crystal Empire. "You right." I start "I did hurt Fluttershy, and I take full responsibility. But I'm trying to make it right if you let me and Malefor pass and get to the Crystal Empire than Fluttershy can be happy again."

Discord was silent for a few moments, I could tell the gears were turning in his brain until he answered, "I told you not to say her name." he says maliciously as the air around me and Malefor grew even colder as we both got into defensive stances in the snow "It doesn't matter what you two do at this point. You still hurt Fluttershy and made her cry and for that the both of you will die here!"

Me and Malefor barely had time to dodge as a lighting bolt fell from the sky and struck where we once were, creating an explosion of snow and plasma. Discord roared and summoned more as me and Malefor tried our best to avoid as many as we can. There was no way we could reason with this guy which meant we had to fight him head on.

"James," called out Malefor, "We have to go full power or we'll literally be fried."

"Right!" I call back as I dodge another lighting strike and gain a little distance from the Spirit of Chaos and Disharmony. I start to channel the magic in my body as I felt myself grow large and my horns grow longer. I instantly transform in to the form back from Manehattan and charge Discord with my horns covered in orange flames. Discord casually throws up a shield as I collide against it knocking me off like a pinball and sending me into the snow below.

I watch as Malefor charges as well in his transformed state and launch a torrent of purple flames at Discord but it seemed to have no effect on his shield. Once the flames died out Discord was no longer there, me and Malefor look around trying to spot him. Only for Discord to appear behind Malefor and swat him down with a giant mallet as the dark dragon collided with the ground next to me.

The both of us nod to each other and spread our wings and charge Discord once again, I teleport behind the Spirit of Chaos in a torrent of flames and catch him slightly off guard. This was enough time for Malefor to ram Discord in the gut knocking the wind out of him with me following up with a tail swipe knocking him away. Discord recovered and sent a glare at both us.

"If that's how we're going to play this game." he growls and summons two boxing gloves on his claw and paw, "The let round 2 commence!"

Me and Malefor barely saw him move as he was right in front of us delivering a right hoof to my jaw and sending me back a few in the air. I quickly regain myself in the air and watch as Malefor dodges a swipe from Discord and returning one of his own, I fly towards the two only to be slapped by Discord's tail and Malefor being kicked back to the snow covered ground. I immediately jump to the side as Discord came crashing to where I once was. This guy really wants to kill me and Malefor.

I ignite my large horns in magical flames and charge the Spirit of Chaos only for him to grab them and try to push me back. I glance over his shoulder and watch as Malefor stands to his feet and fires a blast of purple flame in our direction. The blast connects and me and Discord are blown away. Malefor starts to continue his barrage of flames not giving Discord time to recover, but to our surprise his purple flame had started to be encased in ice. Malefor stopped his assault and we both saw Discord with his talon holding a now purple pillar of ice and yawing as if he was bored.

With a might swing from Discord the pillar of ice came in our direction causing me and Malefor to take flight once again taking the fight back to the skies. Discord met us up there and sent shards of glass in our direction me and Malefor could only block as the shards scraped and pierced our scales. Fresh scrapes with blood leaking out of our bodies were a indication stating this this fight wasn't in our favor. Even if we are in our transformed state.

"Are these really the two dragons that bested Princess Luna?" taunted Discord, "To say I'm sorely disappointed. Here you two are all powered up and you can't even handle little ole' me? Come on Malefor you simply bested both the princesses in Canterlot, what happened? You sure were getting tossed around by Luna in Manehattan and now being tossed around now."

"Fuck...you." hissed Malefor.

"Such vulgar language," responded Discord, "I can now see why your the darker half of James here. Speaking of which, you have been beaten down your entire life and almost killed have you? Almost died when you first came here in fact, by some wimpy timberwolves! Then lets not forget Canterlot, then being beat by that dino-like dragon in Manehattan, then being beat by Luna in Manehattan even though you pulled through with the win. And out of all that you state that you were protecting the ones that you cared for when in reality you were really hurting them more."

I look down unable to say anything,"Alright that's enough!" shouted Malefor.

"Why!" retorted back Discord, "Do you really think that you and Trixie are friends?"

Now Malefor stayed quiet as Discord continued, "Do you really think after all the things you've done! In all honesty she probably were happy you left her on that train. And do you really think helping the changelings will bring back the wrongs you've done?"

Malefor stayed quiet before turning his head to me, "James..." he weakly says, "you need to go to the Crystal Empire. I'll stay and buy you some time."

My eyes widened, "No way! We could barely scratch him even in our transformed states now you want to fight him alone! Let me also remind you that if you die then so will I!"

"I know! But I have a feeling that this Discord would want to kill you personally and I'm guessing it's because of Fluttershy."

"Y-You don't think they they were..."

"I don't know what to think. All I know is that I can maybe buy you enough time to get to the Crystal Empire. The worst he can do is knock me out so I'll live. You on the other hand he will kill without a second thought judging by the way he is acting. Go help our friends our friends I'll join you as soon as I can."

I swallow the lump in my throat and nod, "Fine." I squeeze down as I powered down to my regular form and quickly shot off through the sky toward the Crystal Empire.

"And where do you think you're going!" shouted Discord as he was about to give chase but was cut off by Malefor and was struck by my darker self's horns and blasted away. I didn't bother looking back and was only focused on what was in front of me as I tune out the roar from Malefor and yells of Discord echoing in the distance.

Crystal Palace; Crystal Empire

Silence.

That what was heard in the throne room as the four dragons, Rarity, Applejack, Trixie, Cadence, Shining Armor, Celestia and Luna all stood in silence. Ever since the two princesses walked through the door the tension in the room rose dramatically, it took Bash all the will power he had to not lunge at the princesses at that very moment but he knew that he would only cause more trouble.

Cadence cleared her throat deciding that the silence had gone one long enough, "Well, I guess we should get started. Obviously we are all here to discuss about the recent events that's been happening. Now me and Shining would like to hear Auntie Celestia's and Luna's side of the story."

Before Luna could open her mouth Celestia cut her off, "I'll be the only one speaking," started the white alicorn receiving a glare from Luna but ignored her younger sister and faced the dragons and the three ponies, "I would first like to deeply apologize for our actions back in Canterlot. It was unjust of us and shouldn't have jumped to conclusions."

Bash scoffed as he received a elbow to the side by Sam. Celestia let out a sad sigh knowing that this wasn't going to be easy but continued, "What happened in Canterlot is true, the darker half of James, named Malefor, escaped his prison and engaged in combat with James. It was then me and Luna learned that if one of these dragons died then the other would perish as well so..."

"So we gave the order for their termination," stepped in Luna with an irritated expression,"and I don't regret it. I made the decision to sacrifice two dragons for the sake of our subjects. Is that so wrong? It was then that Malefor then helped James escaped Canterlot, probably made a deal with the dark dragon and since then the two have been murdering our guards."

"Now that's bullshit!" exclaimed Bash as he stepped in front of the group, "You know you're twisting this story against us!"

Luna stepped forward as well, even though he didn't want to admit he was terrified by Luna's power and if they fought he would be destroyed, "And you are telling me none of you have killed our guards while in Equestria?"

"W-well..." stuttered Bash as Luna gave a smirk.

"As I thought, you dragons are just as barbaric as I remembered you."

"That's enough!" exclaimed Shining, "I think we should hear what Trixie and the dragons have to say."

"Wh-Why me!?" asked a shocked Trixie.

"You're the only one that Malefor seems to trust," stepped in Cadence, "and from what we heard about him, he isn't exactly....the friendliest dragons around. Could you please tell us why he is fond of you?"

Trixie stood silent, she never really thought that Malefor liked her. At most probably as a partner but nothing more, but.....he did keep her close when they went to the changeling hive and sacrificed himself to hold of Luna so she could escape with the others. The blue unicorn looked around all eyes on her before she nodded and started from where she first encountered Malefor in her carriage.

Crystal Empire Train Station

Once the colorful train came to a complete stop, Twilight, Fluttershy, Derpy, Rainbow Dash, Bolt, and Pinkie Pie wasted no time exiting the train. The group ignored the protest of ponies as they pushed them aside, due to the only thing in focus is to get to the Crystal Palace and save James. The three mares, known as Fluttershy, Derpy, and Twilight, heart's were racing as they sped along the road.

They were so close to seeing the purple drake again but yet so far when they heard that the princesses were coming here as well. The group of ponies and one dog, paid no mind to the crystal ponies sending greetings their way and kept their focus on the palace ahead of them. They then came up to the gates of the palace only to be stopped by a pair of crystal guards.

"Halt, we're afraid that we can't let any of you in." said the guard.

"Why the hay not!" exclaimed Rainbow.

"Their royal highness's are in an important meeting at the moment and wished not to be disturbed." replied the other guard.

"Can you please let us pass," started Fluttershy, "It's really important."

"I'm sorry miss, but I have my orders."

Twilight stepped to the front of the group, "Then here's my order, let us pass. By order of Princess Twilight Sparkle."

The guard's eyes widened before quickly nodding and apologizing before sending a signal to open the gate letting the group on the castle grounds and through the front doors of the Crystal Palace.

James flew as fast as he could as the Crystal Empire came closer into view, he was almost there. Just a little bit more. Sadly his celebration was cut short as he barely dodged a blast of magic from behind. He turned around to see Discord gaining behind him with his eyes glowing yellow in anger.

Malefor was behind in his regular form giving chase as well. James' face instantly went serious and focused the magic in his purple wings, setting them ablaze and increasing his speed. Malefor watching James did the same as well passing up Discord and flying by the purple drake's side. The two looked at each other and nodded before turning around as thier mouths glowed orange and purple.

The two launched their attacks sending out pillars of orange and purple flame, before becoming into one . Discord didn't have time to dodge as the giant blast struck him. The Spirit of Chaos screamed in pain and anger as the burning sensation started to spread across his body as he was sent of far in the snowy wilderness.

The two dragons panted in exhaustion before giving each other a high five.

"*pant*....Jesus...*pant*.."said James.

"*pant*...we should...*pant* probably get going.....*pant*before that son of a bitch.....*pant*comes back." replied Malefor as James nodded and the both took off toward the Crystal Empire. They were surprised as they passed through the shield just fine but they groaned as they saw the citizens screamed in terror of the two dragons heading toward their city. The guards however were mobilizing at the city gates.

"Well, I guess we tried, huh?" sadly said Malefor.

"It was a good run." replied James.

The two kept flying forward until they were met with a barrage of crystal arrows.

Act 2: A New Set of Prisoners

View Online

Crystal Palace

The group of ponies stood silent as Trixie finished her her tale. She had started from where she first encountered Malefor to them traveling to the changeling hive and agreeing to come to the Crystal Empire for aid, and the recent events in Manehattan. The dragons in the room didn't seem to be affected for they already knew the story but the ponies couldn't think what to say, not even Princess Luna herself.

"Why would Malefor use his time to help the changelings?" questioned Celestia.

Trixie shook her head in response, "Honestly Trixie hasn't the slightest clue."

Luna scoffed, "Please it's obvious that he is using the changelings to his advantage."

"And why would you say that?" stepped in Cadence.

"He simply wants an army. It's what I would do in his situation, gain a nation's trust and support, and use them against your enemies."

"You don't know that." weakly said Flashwing, she had woken up during Trixie's story and she was feeling a lot better. She still wasn't at a hundred percent and still had to be somewhat supported by Bash but she could still get around. "If he needed only the changelings why would he still need Trixie?" she continued.

"I think Luna has a point on this one." suddenly said Shining as the attention was now on him.

"Shining Armor..." started Applejack but was cut off by the white stallion prince.

"I'm sorry but we just don't have enough information on Malefor other than that he killed a few guards and attacked the princesses. James I could show a little more mercy due to the letters that we get from Twilight, but it has been reported that even him has killed some guards as well."

"But that was only because he was protecting us!" protested Rarity.

"You have to understand," started Cadence, "Those guards had families and were protecting the one they cared for as well, but that doesn't give him the right to commit murder."

"So you're taking their side of the story?" questioned Sam with a nervous look.

"We're not taking any side, at least not yet." replied Cadence.

"But if we don't get proof soon then we'll have to believe the princesses, for we can't go on just a couple of stories." explained Shining Armor.

Bash growled, this was not going as well as they expected. If only the princesses weren't here this would have gone more smoothly, but every time they would fire something it would blow right back in their faces. Where the hell were those two dragons? He turned to Luna and she seemed to notice his troubled look, he had a slight confused face before it dawned on him.

"Did she know?" he whispered.

"Which reminds me." spoke up Luna, "Where is James and Malefor, surely they would've been here by now."

"We are uncertain where the two dragons are." stated Drobot.

"Then I suggest they get soon." said Luna in a mocking tone.

"I detect mockery in your tone Princess Luna, do you know where they are?"

"Of course not you bucket of bolts! If I did I would be there right now instead of here."

Drobot, although no one saw under his helmet, was giving Luna a stern look, she knew where James and Malefor were or at least why they are absent so long. Before Drobot could retort the throne room doors burst open revealing a familiar group pf ponies and dog.

Twilight, Fluttershy, Derpy, Rainbow, Bolt, and Pinkie with tired and worried expressions were now standing in the throne room with them. Twilight, Fluttershy, and Derpy instantly saw the other dragons in the room and tried to spot purple drake that was supposed to be with them.

"Twilight?" Cadence said in shock and confusion, "What are you-"

"Princess!" came in a crustal guard, "We have urgent news. We were just informed that two dragons were captured trying to infiltrate the city."

Now this piece of information got every one's in the room attention. Who else could those two dragons be? Shining composed himself "Where are these dragons now?" he asked.

"We have them chained in the dungeon sir." replied the guard.

It was then everyone in the throne room rushed out and headed toward the dungeons.

Crystal Palace; Dungeons

I groaned in pain as I open my eyes. I tried to pull my self only to feel a heavy weight pull me back down. As my vision became clearer I noticed the chains on four of my limbs, including my wings, with one around my neck as well. I shake the chains and pull on them, trying to use my enhanced strength to break them but it was no use. I was far to exhausted to do anything.

I tried to use my magic to teleport out but it would only flicker out. Those ponies probably warded the damn cage. The sound of banging caught my attention to the right, and I was not surprised to see Malefor struggling to break his chains and shouting not so friendly words and phrases. How did we get here? The last thing I remember was the crystal guards attacking us, but the rest is just blank.

"Malefor," I call out as I start to feel a migraine coming on.

Malefor stopped his useless attempts at breaking the chains and turned to me, "Well, look who decided to wake up. If you're done napping I could use some help."

"Nice to see you too, asshole," I say sarcastically as Malefor went back to do trying to escape, "That won't work, they warded the cage so we're stuck here for a while."

The darker version of myself growled before giving the chains he was hooked on one last pull, only for the result to be the same. He roared in anger and punched the ground forming a few cracks, "DAMN IT! We were so close! If only that piece of shit Discord didn't cut us off we would've been with the others by now!"

"Well, there is nothing we can do now." I say.

"What do you mean! You can help me figure a way out of this!"

"And then what would we do! If you haven't notice that we are in a palace literally littered with guards. Not to mention the others are probably talking with the rulers here as we speak."

Malefor calmed down and sat on his haunches, "You think they'll convince them?"

I gave him a confident smile, "If I know Sam, I say she has this in the bag."

Crystal Empire; Streets

Five small individuals walked through the streets of the Crystal Empire, conversing on how to save their dragon friend. These individuals are Sweetie Belle, Dinky, Applebloom, Scootaloo, and Spike. The small baby dragon knew why the fillies wanted him to come along. The thing he couldn't understand was why Princess Luna hated James so much, at first he thought it was because James was a dragon. But so was he and he got along great with Luna.

He was glad he accepted the fillies offer, maybe he could put a stop to what was going on. His thoughts were interrupted as he bumped into the back of the girls and fell on his back. "What was that girls?" groaned Spike in pain as the four fillies were looking at the gate in front of them that led to the Crystal Palace but was armed to the teeth with guards.

"How are we going to get passed that?" asked Applebloom.

"I say we rush in! One of us is bound to make it." suggested Scootaloo.

"That's a terrible idea." replied Dinky.

Spike put a claw to his chin until something clicked in his mind, which Sweetie seemed to notice, "You think of something Spike?"

The baby dragon nodded, "I think I did, If I remember correctly there should be an underground network of tunnels under the city."

"Yeah, and?" asked Scootaloo gesturing Spike to go on.

"Well, if my memory serves me correct, one of them should lead to a secret passage to the palace."

The girls ear perked up as they all cheered, "Nice thinking Spike!" praised Dinky

Spike blushed in embarrassment "It was nothing!"

"Maybe you're not useless after all!" commented Scootaloo.

"Yeah- HEY!" yelled Spike.

Crystal Palace; Dungeons

"So...you want to talk about them." suddenly said Malefor snapping me from my thoughts.

"Huh?" I ask tilting my head in confusion.

"Don't play dumb. Did you choose who you're going to be with."

I stay quiet. How could I choose? Sam has been there since the beginning, Fluttershy was always there to take care of me, Derpy made me laugh when I was feeling down, and Twilight was able to help me adapt to this world. Each girl had something that I loved about them, but which do I choose?

I know Rarity mentioned something about herds but I know Sam will never in a million years do something like that. She can barely share a bag of chips, why would she be able to share me? Even, surprisingly, Fluttershy was a bit possessive as well even though she barely showed because of her shy nature I could still tell.

"I don't know." I finally say.

Malefor growled, "That's not an answer."

"And why the hell do you care!"

"Because it's eating you up inside and it's sickening for me to watch. These girls clouded your mind and it almost got you killed two or three times."

I perk up at his comment and turned to my darker self, "What do you mean by that?"

"Tell me when you're fighting do you think of them at all?"

"Of course! I think of what would happen if I don't-"

"Stop. That's the problem right there, you are too worried about them that you're not thinking straight."

I couldn't believe what I was hearing. Was Malefor saying that they were a distraction? That can't be right can it? No, they are the reason I'm still alive today, but not just them Rainbow, Pinkie, Applejack, Rarity, Dinky, Sweetie, Scoots, Applebloom, Spike, and Bolt. They all motivate me to keep pushing and to stay alive.

"Your wrong!" I exclaimed toward Malefor, "They are the reason I'm still alive!"

"Look," retorted Malefor, "I'm not saying to completely cut them off, but you need to focus on the task at hand. You can't protect them if your all you think about is them. Trust me I know the feeling."

"Wait..You're not talking about.."

"Trixie? Of course, who else did you think I was referring to?"

"Well, I mean I didn't think you could love....anything."

"Pfft, asshole."

"Hey weren't you the one that went on a rampage after breaking from that crystal?"

"Touche. But in all seriousness, and this stays between us, I have grown quite fond of her during our time together." I notice as Malefor's tone suddenly became quieter, "Those changelings are counting on me and her to save their race, but here we are locked in a dungeon. To be honest, I don't really know why I chose to help the changelings...I just felt a strange feeling in my chest when Chrysalis was on her death bed, I felt so helpless."

I listen to his words as they hit me like a rock, "I think I know why," I say gaining his attention, "It's because of Sam. When she got shot at that damn movie theater, then me...I mean us...not being able to do anything but to watch her die in that hospital bed."

"You might be right," Malefor's voice suddenly start to crack catching me off guard, "I-I don't want that to happen again. N-Not to the changelings, and not even Trixie. Heh...I guess I know how you feel when it comes to those other ponies. Tell me this James, are you certain that they will pull through?"

I nod, "Malefor, I'm a hundred percent sure that-"

I was cut off by the sound of a door being slammed open and the rushing of multiple steps head toward our cages. Our eyes widened as we were met with Applejack, Rarity, Sam, Trixie, Drobot, Flashwing, Bash, and what I assumed was Princess Cadence and Shining Armor. But they didn't catch out attention, with them was non other than Twilight, Fluttershy, Derpy, Bolt, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie, Celesita and....

"Oh shit.." me and Malefor mutter as the Princess of the night strolled to our cage.

"Hello dragons," she says in a cocky voice, "nice to see you again."

Act 2: A New Discussion With Prisoners

View Online

Crystal Empire; Dungeons

"Open the the cells now!" exclaimed Fluttershy catching most of the occupants by surprise by her loud voice.

"I'm afraid we can't-" started Cadence but was cut off by the yellow mare.

"I don't care! Open this cell or I'll open it myself!"

Cadence was taken back by Fluttershy's sudden confidence, she tried not to smile knowing why the element of kindness was acting this way. Love is a powerful thing making any pony do anything, she could feel the same emotion within that purple dragoness, Twilight, and Derpy but it seemed that it was pointed toward this James character. She had to admit she never heard of a dragon go by that name so the part about him being 'human' could be true.

If these ponies trust him that much then maybe he could be trusted, he would still be accountable of the all the guards he injured or killed even if it was all in self defense. She could feel Fluttershy's blue eyes piercing into her and the determination and worry she felt for this dragon, probably more than any other of the females in this room. With that she nodded and walked toward the cell with a glowing horn ignoring the protests of her Aunt Luna and surprisingly Shining Armor she unlocked the door to the cell containing the two dragons but left the chains in place in case they tried anything.

Fluttershy wasted no time and tackling James to the ground in a bear hug that could give Pinkie a run for her money. James coughed a bit as he hugged her back glad to see her again he could feel his scales on his chest starting to get moist indicating that Fluttershy was now crying. She was soon joined by Twilight, Derpy, Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow, Pinkie, and even Sam.

Malefor could only watch the sentimental moment with a neutral expression, until hoof steps in front of him caught his attention, revealing to be Trixie. She had her head down making Malefor tilt his head in confusion. "What took you so long." she whispered.

"Umm...what?" replied Malefor.

"Idiot!" screamed Trixie as he wrapped her arms around the dark dragon, "Do you know how worried I was!"

Malefor was surprised at the sudden contact, that his felt his cheeks warm up, "Well, I'm here...am I?"

"Just shut up." growled Trixie as she didn't even know that she was crying as well.

The three alicorns, prince, and three dragons could only look at the scene with mixed emotions. Celestia, the other dragons, and Cadence both smiled at the loving reunion, Luna had a disgusted look not believing that the ponies are trusting these dragons that nearly killed her, Shining Armor however was having mixed emotions, he was happy to see the happy faces but.....these two dragons still are dangerous.

James broke his embrace with the ponies and dragoness, he hadn't felt this in awh-

SMACK!

"Ow! Son of bitch!" groaned as he was smacked by Twilight, Fluttershy, Derpy, and Sam, "What was that for!"

"For leaving us not coming back!" exclaimed Twilight.

"Yeah, do that again and it would be a lot harder." added Fluttershy.

"And no more muffins!" added Derpy.

"Ok, Ok I get it." replied James with a smile as he looked over to same who was fidgeting in her place. "Girls, I want you all to meet Sam, she and the other dragons here found me and nursed me back to health."

The three mare's looked toward the purple dragoness, who waved "Sam? Y-You mean..." stuttered Twilight.

"Y-Your old girlfriend?" finished Fluttershy.

"G-girlfriend?" stuttered a confused Derpy.

James cursed to himself he forgot that he hasn't told Derpy about his human side or Sam. She must be so confused right now. I give a look to Cadence and I don't know why but it seemed that she knew about the situation I was in. "I think we should leave them alone for now," the Princess of Love said, "The rest of us should discuss what we'll do with the dragons, come join us when you are finished."

Most of the group left the dungeon leaving Fluttershy, Twilight, Derpy, Sam, and Trixie with the two dragons. "So....we're all here." said James.

"I guess we are." said Fluttershy

"James," started Sam, "We all knew it would come to this, but I think it's time to confess. I know you care for us and we care for you back, but...but....I still always loved you and always will."

"We all care for you James and want to be with you." started Derpy.

"But we know that you can only choose one." added Twilight.

"And we'll respect who ever you'll pick." finished Fluttershy.

James could only stare at the four girls with a shocked expression. He had expected this decision to be easier, but it turned out it is harder than he thought. At least Sam already knew about the other three mares so that cat was out of the bag. All three of them were looking at him with pleading and hopeful expressions, all their eyes sparkling. James took a glance over to Malefor and Trixie who seem to be more interested on what he'll do.

"I-I'm sorry," croaked out James, "I still need some time. At least until me and Malefor are out of this mess."

James felt his chest tighten when he saw the disappointing look and sad look on their faces. He wanted to choose one of them he really did, but a lot of stuff was going on at the moment that he couldn't think straight at the moment. He just hoped that he had a choice, if he survives this. The four girls nodded but didn't say anything, with each of them giving him alight peck on his cheek before exiting the dungeon. James blushed at their sudden action and just stared at the door where the four females departed from.

"I guess Trixie should be going to." said Trixie.

"Just try to convince them that we are on their side." replied Malefor.

"I'll try, but if Trixie can't..."

"Don't talk like that. You will you are great and powerful are you?"

Trixie smiled as a sense pride filled up her insides making her smile. She gave Malefor one last hug as he just stood their with a annoyed expression, before the show mare exited the dungeon as well leaving the two chained dragons alone once more.

"They do got this, right?" asked Malefor

"Of course, I have hope in them." replied James.

Crystal Empire; Caverns

Spike, Sweetie, Applebloom, Scootaloo, and Dinky all made their way through the crystal caves under the city of the Crystal Empire. All types of crystals giving off a small glow illuminating the cave in a greenish blue light, the group would've taken their time and admire them, but they had other matters to attend to. Their purple scaly dragon was in trouble and they needed to save him before something bad happens.

"Are we there yet!" whined Scootaloo.

"Ya' asked that already! Not even two minutes ago!" retorted Applebloom.

"Yeah, because we should've been there by now!"

Sweetie Belle looked back at her friend, "How? The only one who's taken this route is Spike."

"W-Well...I...I just know okay!" exclaimed Scootaloo with an angry blush.

Sweetie Belle noticed that Dinky was behind the group and slowed down to join her. She could notice the worried expression of the grey filly, other than her self Dinky is probably the closest one to James here. The two were in the dark about their dragon friend, believing that he went some where for business when in reality he was in trouble with the princesses the entire time.

All forms of questions went through their head, why would the adults lie to them, did James do something bad, was he a bad dragon this whole time, or was it a big misunderstanding? The only thing that bothered them was that they didn't care what the reason was. For Sweetie Belle, James was like the big brother she never had protecting her and caring for her when Rarity wasn't available. Dinky saw James as a father figure, she never knew her real father but she didn't care when James dropped her off and picked her up from school when her mother was working.

"I miss him too you know." said Sweetie Belle gaining Dinky's attention.

"I know," replied Dinky, "I hope he is okay. I don't want him being hurt."

The two were silent until Sweetie spoke up, "When we find him, lets make sure to never keep our eyes off him."

Dinky smiled as Sweetie's attempt to make her feel better, "Yeah."

"Hey we're here!" said Spike gaining the groups attention as they made it to a cart on some tracks leading down into a dark abyss.

Crystal Empire; Dungeons

I laid on the stone ground and crystal ground, taking quick glances toward my darker half to see him doing the same. His mind was still on the four females that just confessed their feelings for him. He knows he keeps saying that everything was going to be alright, but in truth he didn't know. Anything could happen now at this point, I didn't want to choose one of them just for me to die a few moments later.

I'm guessing Malefor was thinking the same thing since we are pretty one in the same. I could tell he is trying to act like the strong stoic type, especially around Trixie. Hell I could tell that they had a thing for each other, but like I said we don't know what might happen at this point. We weren't expecting Discord to attack us, We weren't expecting Luna and Celestia to be here, and we weren't expecting most of Equestria hunting for us.

Right now our lives are being decided by a thread.

The sound of the door opening caught out attention as the familiar group of ponies and dragons came through. It did not look good....Bash, Drobot, and Flashwing gave me and Malefor guilty expressions like they had failed us. Applejack and Rarity both looked away not being able to make eye contact with me. Rainbow and Pinkie both were glaring at me and Malefor. Twilight, Trixie, and Sam both had tears forming in their eyes, Bolt was giving out a sad whine, and Fluttershy and Derpy both still crying their eyes out.

Me and Malefor stood up and try to got to the edge of the bars, only for us to be pulled back by the chains, to see what had happened. That was until we saw Celestia sporting the same glare at us, like Rainbow and Pinkie. Princess Cadence with a guilty expression like Bash and the others, and Shining Armor with a stoic expression. But what caught out attention was a certain moon princess and a newly arrived spirit of chaos standing with them both having grins upon their faces.

"I-I'm sorry James...." croaked out Flashwing.

"We tried our best, but...." added Bash, but was cut off by Luna.

Princess Luna still having her cocky grin walked up to the cage, it took everything within me and probably Malefor as well, to not try to jump at her right then and there. We all know something wasn't right this situation especially if Discord was now here. Our eyes widened when she said her statement that completely sicked the life out of me and my darker half.

"For your crimes against Equestria, you two are to be publicly executed tomorrow morning." said Luna.

Shining then walked up to the cell, "Guards would be by later for a request for a final meal."

"I'm...sorry it had to be this way. I tried everything I could." solemnly said Princess Cadence as she any the group left without saying a word, leaving me and Malefor in a shocked state.

"What the fuck just happened."

Thedas

The orange dragon or the Oracle, also known as Ignitus bowed toward the two dragon gods and rulers known as Porunga and Shenron. The orange dragon had just gotten a letter from Coco Pommel of the situation and made his way toward the castle as fast as he could. Luckily due to his title, he didn't have to spend time to check in with the guards to see the two rulers of dragons.

"Ignitus, what has brought you here my friend?", asked Porunga.

"I'm afraid we have a situation with James and his team." started Ignitus getting a laugh from Shenron.

"HAHAHAHAHA! Please, I'm sure they are fine..."[/b laughed the serpent like dragon.

"Lord Shenron, I have just gotten word from my source in Equestria that James AND Malefor have been captured by Princess Luna, with the help of Discord."

The two rulers became silent, Porunga knew the history both Luna and Shenron shared and it didn't end well. And now that Discord was in the mix things had just gotten more dangerous, James had potential to be the most powerful dragon to exist in history but he was not ready to take on a being such as Discord. Even with Malefor's help....

"What of the team that was with him?" asked Porunga putting a talon to his his chin in concern.

"Due to their diplomatic immunity they are pardoned, but since James and Malefor aren't originally from here...."

Shenron eyes squinted, he couldn't believe these two dragons were paying for the mistakes that he made 1,000 years ago. He never knew Luna would go this far in her grudge, he should've been there with her when she turned into Nightmare Moon. Not to join her but to at least talk her out of it, he had the power to visit her during her moon imprisonment but he didn't. It was all his fault and only he was the one to put a stop to this. Porunga seemed to have the same idea as him as he looked over and had the same expression.

"Ignitus, me and Porunga will head to the Crystal Empire and deal with this matter personally." stated Shenron as the orange dragon's eyes widened.

"Lord Shenron, Lord Porunga, with all due respect are you sure this is a good idea? We would not know what would happen if you two happen to show up in Equestria, let alone the Crystal Empire."

"I know you are worried for our safety Ignitus but it is something we must do on our own." stated Porunga.

"Our subjects are in danger, isn't it a ruler's job to go save and protect them?" added Shenron.

Ignitus nodded, "I guess you are right. I'll do my best to maintain order here in Thedas while you two are away."

The two ruler nodded.

"Thank you Ignitus, this will not be forgotten. Lets just hope we aren't too late by the time we arrive." said Shenron.

Act 2: A New Execution

View Online

Crystal Empire; Throne Room; One Hour Earlier

"So does that prove that James, and surprisingly Malefor, aren't dangerous." stated Sam with a confident expression.

After her and the other mares left the dungeon, they had returned to the throne room and resumed the conversation on the fate of James and his darker half. After the episode with them she was more than confident that things were going their way, she could just see Luna face right now. Full of anger and unable to do anything, while the two dragons walked free. Of course there might some minor punishments for the destruction of property and some ponies being hurt but it sure as hell beat being locked up in a cage or being banished your life.

The purple dragoness smiled as she remembered her time with James on Earth. She was his first friend in high school, so he pretty much stuck with her where ever she went. To be honest James was actually shy in high school when he first started, he would always stay quiet and barely talk in group conversations. He would also keep to himself when doing assignments for classes, yeah he had Sam but they didn't have every class together. So they only saw each other on breaks or when school was out, but as time went on she noticed that he started to open up more and manged have his own group of friends, with her being part of that group of course.

"Yes," replied Shining, "It would seem that these two dragon's aren't as bad as we believed."

"Indeed," stated Cadence as she looked toward the group of dragons in the room, "But this does not ignore the fact, that the two has caused public damages, and critically injured royal guards while in Equestria. You all might have diplomatic immunity, but those two don't."

Drobot nodded, "Me and my group, fully understand and would love to work a an acceptable compromise on their punishment. We also apologize for the trouble we caused."

Luna grit her teeth, things were not looking good. Can't all them see that these dragons are playing them like an instrument? She couldn't contact Discord right now due to her older sister watching her very move, she could never blame her sister for siding with the enemy in this kind of situation. She was always forgiving and trying to find the best inside everything, even Tirek and Chrysalis. Luckily she has her Night Guards and Celestia's Solar Guards patrolling the area around the Empire just in case Discord returned or if any dragon decided to surprise attack.

Her thoughts drifted to the dragons back in Thedas, she could feel the pain and anguish well up in her chest. Why wasn't her best friend, Shenron, there to help her through the Nightmare Moon incident? The lunar princess knew she was in the wrong and accepted that, but even before she decided to become the demon of the night, she was hurting and almost crying herself back to sleep every night, and where was Shenron? Sitting back at Thedas like the selfish dragon he is! It was then Luna finally opened her eyes realize that almost all dragons were selfish creatures, even more than the griffons, of course there were exceptions, Twilight's assistant Spike or the water dragon that lives in the Everfree. If she wanted to she would have invaded Thedas a long time ago.

She knew that would start a full war with the dragons and she had to admit Equestria was not powerful enough fend them off. Maybe not even with the elements or rainbow power on their side, which is why she needed allies from other nations the only problem was most nations had good relations with the dragons of Thedas. Plus Shenron and his older brother, Porunga, has their 'Dragon Lords' spread out throughout each nation, including Equestria.

"Then how about this," stated Shining Armor, "I respect that James protected the princesses and my sister in Canterlot, but I can't ignore the fact that he took out royal guards and left Princess Luna critically injured. So....I say we he goes to prison for two or thee months depending on good behavior. As for Malefor though is a different story, even though eh is trying to redeem himself, he as caused more harm than good unlike James. As for that he'll be locked up in prison like James for two or three years, also depending on good behavior. Also....we'll look into an area in the empire for the changelings. Does that sound like decent terms?"

Bash put a talon to his chin, "Well, it ain't butterflies and rainbows, but it's something. The two will have their freedom once they get out?"

Cadence nodded, "Of course."

"And no harm will come to them while in the prison. No abuse by guards our inmates." added Flashwing.

"I'll make sure personally that they are treated with the best care," stated Celestia with a smile.

"So we have to wait a full two months, until we see James again?" suddenly said Twilight with a disappointed voice. They just reunited for Celestia's sake! And now they are going to be separated again! She felt a hoof on her shoulder and turned to see Rainbow.

"It's okay Twi' we can wait a little longer." said Rainbow.

"Yeah! Plus we can visit him every day!" added Pinkie.

"I-I guess." choked Fluttershy and Derpy feeling the same way as Twilight as Bolt sat between them.

"As much as ah' don't agree with this. It's the best we got." said Applejack and Rarity nodded in agreement. They didn't want to see their new family member get sent to prison. Especially after all he has done for them, but it was better than the purple dragon being banished....or worse.

Applejack couldn't handle loosing another family member, ever since her parents, she knew Granny Smith was old and it was apart of life. So she could come to peace with that, but to have one taken away from her? Even James was dragon and not a pony. He had the heart and strength of an Apple that had been with her as long as she remembered. He would always come by the farm and help her and Big Mac buck the trees. And shoot, it did help move things along and allowed her and Big Mac extra rest time. He had a great time with the crusaders and Dinky as well, plus Bolt seemed to like Wioona a little too much.

Rarity had always wanted a older brother, don't get her wrong she loved Sweetie Belle. She just wanted that older male figure that she could play with when she was a filly. She had no friends, and all she could focus on was fashion so by the time Sweetie was born she had no time to spend with her. But ever since James came it was just like that, he came by the boutique and helped her and Spike, with the fashion line she was working on, and would always tease her on certain things. He even had that overprotected big brother attitude, telling her to be careful when using the sowing machine and coming with her to deliver orders when she was alone. There is also the fact the he loved Sweetie Belle with a passion, almost to the point where it would think that he was her father.

"Then it's settled-" started to Sam only for the throne doors to open and two night guards carrying in a wounded Discord.

"N-Not so fast." the spirit of chaos choked.

"Discord!" exclaimed the ponies in the room(including Luna) as they quickly made their way toward him. Discord was supported by the guards as Cadence quickly flew over to heal his wounds quickly followed by Fluttershy. The yellow mare as she saw the burn marks and gashes across his body. Who could've done this to her friend? Who was even powerful enough to go toe to toe to Discord anyways. Cadence worked her magic and quickly healed the spirit of chaos, his wounds closing and bruises healing up nicely.

Discord then struggled to his feet still sore, "Discord, what happened?" asked Celestia in a stern voice.

"I...was attacked...by dragons..." panted Discord shocking everyone in the room. That can't be right can it? Rarity, Applejack, and Rarity arrived here with the group of dragons on the train. Plus what kind of dragons would be powerful enough to take on Discord. Celestia could only think of the two dragon gods, Porunga and Shenron, but they rarely left Thedas which only meant....

Celestia's eyes widened, "No..." she whispered but it was loud enough to gain everyone's attention in the room. She would've expected Malefor to do this kind of damage to the spirit of chaos, but Discord said 'dragons' as in plural so that also meant that James was involved. She couldn't come to conclusions so quickly, she made her way over to Discord with a worried but still stern expression.

"Discord," the sun goddess said, "Do you know who exactly attacked you?"

Discord nodded, "Like I said, I was attacked by two dragons, but one of them being James and the other being Malefor."

The room was silent shocked at what Discord just said until Twilight spoke up, "This is no time to play games Discord! What exactly happened!?"

"It is as I said," responded Discord, "I was blind sided by the two dragons while making my way to the Crystal Empire for any support. They planned to take over the Crystal Empire and use it as a base of operation for the changelings, I tried my best to stop them but I was overpowered."

"That's not true!" exclaimed Trixie, "I was there with Malefor when we spoke to the changelings! He is trying to help them! Not use them for war!"

"And James would never agree to something like that!" added Derpy.

"That's right," said Sam, "I know James better than anyone else here and he would never agree to something like that."

Discord shrugged, "Then I guess you didn't know him as much," he then turned toward Celestia, "If you don't believe me look into my memories and project them for everyone to see."

Celestia nodded, "Alright."

Her horn glowed as she placed the tip of her horn on Discord's fore head and her eyes shined a bright white and projected his memory for all to see. She let out a gasp at what she saw. Everything Discord said.....was true. James and Malefor ambushing him, the two explaining their plan to use the changelings to take over the Crystal and then all of Equestria. Everyone in the room was in a familiar state, even Luna trying to fake hers, as the memory ended with Malefor and James leaving a beaten Discord in the snow and heading toward the direction of the empire. The room was silent no one said anything, what was their to say?

"Oh this is bullshit!" yelled Bash.

Flashwing put a talon on his shoulder, "Bash, calm down.."

"No! Come on, you can all see something isn't right about this!"

Luna put on a comforting expression, "I see you are hurting, but you have to understand their is no way to change a memory. You probably just put to much trust..."

"You shut the hell up!"

"ENOUGH!" exclaimed Celestia, "The memories don't lie. I'm afraid that James and Malefor are too dangerous to be left running around Equestria."

Cadence then stepped in "Auntie, I have to agree with the dragon. I might not know James well enough, but I felt his love when we went down to the dungeon. It is strong! Something isn't right here. Right Shining?"

Shining Armor just stood silent.

"Shining? Don't tell me you believe this?" Shining Armor only shook his head. Cadence had a shocked expression at her husbands response as she felt her heart drop. The feeling got even worse when she heard and saw the reactions from the others in the room.

"I can't believe we trusted him." muttered Rainbow.

"He is no friend of mine." added Pinkie.

"This can't be." said Rarity and Applejack.

"I was a fool for seeing any good in that dragon." said Celestia.

The group of dragons just stood silent all having guilt expressions like herself, for having failed the purple dragon. Derpy, Twilight, and Sam all had tears running down their cheeks, Fluttershy was the worst of all literally bawling and hugging Bolt her nudged into her shoulder.

Luna then spoke up, "I guess it's time we think of an alternative method to be rid of these dragons."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4Um6okMHcE

Crystal Empire; Palace Grounds

James and Malefor could only take the food and trash thrown their way as they made their way toward a stage surrounded by angry crystal ponies. The two dragons had their wings bound, with chains around their ankles and wrists, and magical collars around their necks to prevent them from using their powers. They were being led by Luna's Nightguard as they came onto the stage and was forced to face the crowd. A torrent of boos and curses were sent their way and was continued to be pelted with trash. On the stage with them was none other than the mane six, Bolt, Derpy, Trixie, Celestia, Luna, Discord, Cadence, and Shining Armor.

What really caught their attention was not the guards pony at a block with a giant battle axe, but the absence of Sam and the other dragons. They must've left back to Thedas not wanting to see their execution. James couldn't blame her, the crowd would only give the group of dragons a hard time. James took a glace and his eyes met Fluttershy's his heart stopped as he saw her expression. Her cheeks were stained with tears as she held on to Bolt for dear life, her eyes were filled with betrayal, sadness, and worst of all...fear. Fluttershy was afraid of him.

James could only fill his tears start to surface. He never got to say goodbye to his friends, but why would they want to see him? From what him and Malefor were told they were planning to take over Equestria. Him and Malefor pleaded their cases as much at they could saying that it wasn't true but it was no use for the damage had already been done. The two brought to a kneeling position as they rested both of their heads on the wooden block.

Luna watched Cadence with a solemn expression walk up to the microphone on stage telling her subjects to calm down. Luna didn't want to see her loved ones in such a unhappy state, but this was the only way to get rid of the dragon menace that plagued their minds.

"My loyal subjects!" called out Cadence, "W-We are here today to.....Extinguish two threats that has plagued E-Equestria...."

Shining Armor put a hoof on her shoulder giving her a sympathetic look before taking over, "These two dragons," started Shining, "known as James and Malefor, are charged with assault, murder, and conspiracy against Equestria. Therefore....they will be put to death."

The crowd cheered as Shining kept his stoic expression, he always hated when he had to attend these executions. He especially didn't want Twily and her friends to see this either, as much as he wanted to help the dragons known as James and Malefor the evidence that Discord gave them was the one that was the most believable. He saw Luna with a small smirk and Celestia with a stoic expression both looking at the two chained dragons.

James could only watch as the crowd started to cheer louder than before. He looked toward Malefor as his gaze was toward Trixie with her head down. The purple noticed the lone tear going down his darker self's face, which made him realize that this was it. This was then end of the road he would die knowing that his friends will hate him and probably forget him and Sam and the other dragons not being able to see his face.

"So..." says Malefor, "This is how we go."

I nod, "I always expected us to go out by us just sleeping or maybe taking each other out."

"Heh, well I guess life doesn't have those plans for us huh?"

"I guess not...I'll see you on the other side."

"Yeah, I guess I will."

James watched as Shining Armor nodded toward the executioner who gave a nod and walked toward the two dragons. They couldn't see where the executioner was but they could hear him beside them and resting the blade of the battle axe on their necks. The two dragons closed their eyes as tears started to flow down their cheeks as the they felt the blade of the axe rise, assuming that the executioner was going for his first head. And they both knew that if one of them died so did the other so there was no hope in escaping. Until James felt a furry weight around his neck.

"NO!", yelled a familiar soft voice.

James opened his purple eyes to see none other than Fluttershy, with her fore-hooves hooked around his neck and hugging him for dear life. He could feel the his scales starting to moistened due to her tears, but he couldn't help but smile, even though he was at Death's door. She sent a glare at the executioner making him step back and the crowd to moan in disappointment.

"Fl-Flutters?" James stutters still not believing she was here hugging him.

"I will not let you kill him!" exclaimed Flutters in a protective tone as Luna came up to her.

"Dear Fluttershy, I know you care for this...dragon....but you have to understand that this is for the greater good for Equestria, maybe even all of the world." said the moon princess in a sincere voice.

"I don't care!" retorted Fluttershy with tears literally flowing down her cheeks like waterfalls, "I....Equestria will not be good if I can't share it with him!"

Then without warning, catching James and probably everyone else off guard who was watching, Fluttershy crashed her lips into his. James' eyes widened for a second before he decided to make the most of it as he kissed back, the yellow mare smelt and tasted like lemons, making the dragon to sigh in pleasure. He was disappointed when the yellow mare broke the kiss and glared at the lunar princess who only shook her head in disappointment.

"I see, if that's how you feel," said Luna as she motioned the guards to come over, "Guards! Please remove Mrs. Fluttershy so we could get back to the task at hand."

It was then Malefor and James noticed that Luna's eyes flashed like a reptile for a second and that her tongue was forked. Both dragons knew what that meant and sadly they were the only ones to see it. James started to growl at the guards as they got closer to Fluttershy, but was helpless as they dragged her away despite her protests. Twilight, Trixie, Cadence, and the others yelled to let Fluttershy go only to be surprised to be silenced by Celestia and Discord, telling them that it was best that Fluttershy left and not see the dragon she loved get killed. James then watched "Luna's" smirk as she showed the two dragon's her reptilian eyes before turning them back to normal and walking off. The two dragons now with a purpose tried everything they could to get out the chains. Biting, shaking, pulling, and even trying to summon what ever magic they can, even with the anti-magical collars on, to get free.

"Executioner! Please resume!" commanded Luna as the executioner stallion nodded and came back over to the dragons. With the crowd cheering, but not as loud as before.

James and Malefor struggled even harder to break out as the axe was raised over their necks. Twilight, Derpy, Trixie, Cadence, and the other mare's closed their eyes and turned their heads with tears now streaming down their cheeks, Bolt whined and fidgeted in his place unsure to help his master or not, and, Celestia and Shining all had stoic expressions. Discord however felt a pang of guilt in his chest, when Luna said the two dragons were after Fluttershy, he had no problem framing them to keep her safe. But after what he saw her do for the purple dragon he was having second thoughts. He had erased the purple dragon's memories of himself of meeting him at the party back in Ponyville, when they encountered each other in the blizzard, so he wouldn't expect his magic in that fight. Was Luna lying to him this whole time? Speaking of Luna, she had a malicious smirk as the axe then descended on the two dragons.

Then silence.

Just the woosh sound of the axe striking down.

And the sound of a body colliding with another making the crowd gasp.

James and Malefor opened their eyes to see the blade of the axe just inches away from their face and the unconscious body of the executioner in front of them. What really caught their attention was the familiar scales of Bash, Flashwing, Drobot.....and Sam. All four of them radiating with magical energy and surrounded by the guards on stage. Bash went over to us and smashed the locks of the chains breaking me and Malefor free before joining them.

"What took you fuckers so long?" joked Malefor.

"Your welcome to you too asshole." replied Bash.

"We don't have time for this, we need to figure out a way to get out of this." replied Flashwing.

"I calculate a 60% chance of survival if we fly and a 45% if we fight by ourselves." stated Drobot.

"Sam.." I say as the purple dragoness pulls me into a hug with tears flowing down her cheeks. James uses his talon to wipe them off as she looks away.

"James," she says, "I saw what Fluttershy did."

James' heart then dropped to his stomach, "Sam I.."

He was cut off when Sam put a finger to his lips.

"Survive now, talk later got it?"

James noticed her smile, but he knew it was forced. He could only nod and smile back.

"Got it."

The six dragons then got into a battle stance as they were faced with a now enraged Luna.

Act 2: A New Rescue

View Online

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Loi4bYzXvAw

Crystal Empire

Luna was beyond pissed. She was so close in eliminating the two dragons, so close of achieving peace once again in Equestria. However the group of other dragons from earlier has managed to free the two, she has had it. She had figured that she finish off the dragons herself, but she knew that she would be fighting a losing battle. Its a good thing that she has Discord and maybe Celestia to back her up. Once she was done with the dragons she would and her sister would order an all out assault on Thedas and eliminate every dragon there.

"What is the meaning of this!" exclaimed Princess Luna with an angered expression.

"We are saving some friends!" yelled back Sam.

Celestia walked by her sister's side, "You are making a grave mistake. I am sorry but these two must pay for the crimes they committed. Continue to resist and not even diplomatic immunity can help you."

Bash scoffed, "Oh come on! Are we the only sane ones here! You are really going to trust a Spirit of Chaos!"

"Discord is reformed, and I trust that he would not deceive us," stated Celestia, "James and Malefor however I have little information about and have caused trouble throughout Equestria."

"It's like talking to a brick wall." Flashwing stated.

Discord then stepped up on Luna's other side, "I would watch your tone dragon, you wouldn't want to join your friends do you?"

Cadence, Shining, Twilight, Derpy, and the others, minus Fluttershy, could only look in shock and confusion at the stand off before them. It took everything in Twilight and Derpy to run on stage and join the purple dragon, but they didn't want to get taken away like Fluttershy. The group was surprised to see Celestia actually going forward with this execution, they expected Luna and Discord to approve but Celelstia was always on the more peaceful side. Something wasn't right, Luna was almost never this violent, Celestia almost never approved of an execution, and Discord barely cared about anything unless Fluttershy is in danger.

"And what makes you think we're going back in those chains!" exclaimed James.

"Yeah, those damn things were making my wings stiff." added Malefor.

Celestia stepped up with her eyes and horn glowing, "James, Malefor we are giving you this last chance. Accept your fate or we'll have to put you and your group down also."

Now Malefor and James were surprised, why is Celestia acting like this? This was not the same Celestia they met at Canterlot. James even noticed a slight change in Discord his joking demeanor was now replaced with a serious expression with a look too kill. The two dragons thought it could be Luna at first but when they saw the reptilian eyes and sharp teeth that idea quickly left their mind. Somebody was controlling these three....but who was it?

"Then I guess we're going down fighting." Sam declared as the other dragons nodded and got in a bttle stance. Flashwings crystal like wings beganf to glow a bright white, Bash stomped into the ground forming a couple cracks, Drobot's eyes glowed red, Sam has purple electricity sparking around her body, Malefor has purple flames flowing from his mouth, and James has orange flames surrounding his horns.

Meanwhile; Crystal Caverns

The four fillies and baby dragon ran through the caves, they could here the cheering and the voice of Cadence and Shining Armor up above. And from judging from the crowds reaction it didn't sound good as the five children pumped their tiny legs as fast as they can to save their dragon friend. The y were worried hen it suddenly got quiet but were relived when they heard the sounds of the crowd booing. Meaning that James was still okay.

Sweetie Belle and Dinky were in front of the group, "Come on! We have to hurry!" exclaimed Sweetie.

"I have a bad feelings about James." added Dinky.

"Girls! Up ahead!" yelled out Spike, as the group saw a stairway in a patch of light which they assumed was the outside. The group of children quickly ran up the steps of the crystalline stair case. A wooden door was the only thing between them and saving the purple drake. To their disappoint, the door was locked making them groan. Without thinking each of them began pushing, ramming, or bucking the door hoping to get it open. Spike exclaimed the fillies to step back and let out a breath of green fire burning the lock.

The group of fillies and baby dragon gave one final push to the door and slammed the door open, as they all fell out. When they returned standing, they noticed that they were in the Crystal Palace, they could hear the crowd outside get louder. They were about to celebrate on escaping the caverns until the shouting of guards from out side caught their attention.

"That doesn't sound good." commented Scootaloo.

"We need to split up, " stated Spike, "I need something. Me, Applebloom, and Scootaloo will head toward the guest rooms, while Sweetie and Dinky help James."

The fillies nodded as Spike, Applebloom and Scootaloo went deeper in the castle and Sweetie Belle and Dinky ran toward the exit to help their dragon friend.

"You dragons are really going to fight?" stated Luna in an irritated tone, she didn't expect this to happen. She was so close to her true goal, once the two dragons were executed, the dragons would be defenseless. Then she would wipe them out off the face of Equis. But these other four dragons had interfered with her plans! Things weren't supposed to be this complicated when she took over this body.

"In that case...its time for plan B!" shouted 'Luna' as her horn glowed as she turned to Celestia and Discord and before the two could react she shot a black beam of magical energy into their heads making the two scream out in pain. 'Luna' laughed as a magical aura exploded around her as her fur turned a midnight black, her pupils became slits, and she now had dark blue armor. The screams of Celestia and Discord slowly turned to laughter.

Celestia's fur was now whiter than before, her eyes now an orange with reptile slits as pupils. She now had golden armor and her mane was literally a fire blaze. Discord however looked the same, aside from his eyes glowing a bright yellow and golden lighting surrounding his body. The guards took their focus of f the dragons and pointed their weapons at the three only for Discord to wave his talon and summon a barrage of lightning bolts turning the guards into ash making the crowd scream and disperse. The Twilight, Derpy, Cadence, Shining, Rainbow, Applejack, Rarity, and Pinkie could only look in shock and fear at the sudden turn of events.

"Well this is interesting." commented James.

"Our chances of survival just went down 30%." added Drobot.

"Really optimistic there rust bucket." sarcastically said Malefor rolling his eyes.

"We need to separate them if we have ANY hope of winning." stated Sam.

"Right, James and Malefor can handle the Princesses, while the rest of us take on Discord."

The group nod and get in battle stances. They all knew that it would take a miracle for them to win this. Even with James and Malefor's new forms mastered they weren't sure if it was going to be enough with the power boost these three got. "You have made a grave mistake coming here dragons." growled Nightmare Moon.

"You've stayed your welcome long enough." said Solar Flare.

"And it is time for us to eliminate you." finished Discord.

The two groups were now in a stand off, it was quiet and the only sound was the wind blowing through the Crystal Empire. The ponies and dog watching from the sidelines could literally feel the magical energy radiating off the two groups. It wasn't until the drop of a sudden rock sparked the fire.

Malefor wasted no time transforming into his long-horned form and launching a blast of purple flame toward Nightmare Moon as the black alicorn dodging and taking to the skies. Malefor flapped his wings and shot up after the moon sorceress. James was rammed by Solar Flare and the two was sent to another part of the city crashing through buildings and impacting the crystal street. The purple dragon quickly recovered and transformed into his long-horned form and charged the solar demon.

Solar Flare charged back and the two impacted heads as the force caused the ground beneath them to crack.

Meanwhile back at the Palace grounds the four dragons were dodging bolts of lightning that was shot by the spirit of chaos. Flashwing and Drobot fired back their own lasers and only for Discord to easily swat the projectiles way, The Twilight, Derpy, Bolt, and the others had retreated back not wanting to be caught in the crossfire. They were all now watching a safe distance away not knowing what they could do.

Act 2: A New Battle

View Online

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQwxKpu-HfA

With James

Me and the corrupted Celestia clashed in the air, our skulls pressing against each other trying to overpower the other. I summon the magic within me to my enlarged horns as they lit a flame and pushed her back a few. To my surprise she teleported away before I could push her to far, which resulted me getting blast in the back by a bright burning beam and sent to the pavement below. I impacted the crystal street causing the crystal ponies in the area to clear out as I brought myself out of the crater I created.

I roll out of the away just in time to miss a stab from Celestia's horn and fire back a blast of fire which did little to no damage to her. I did however to stun her, which allowed me to ram her into her side with my horns and send her through a couple lamp posts. I didn't give her a chance to recover as I spread my wings and shoot after her, to my disappointment she manged to recover and bucked me square in my chest sending me on my back. I flapped my wings using my wind magic to push her away and get back to standing.

I could see Celestia's eyes filled with annoyance. This was not good. I might have been getting a lot of hits in but I'm doing no damage to her. I instantly threw up a fire shield to block a blast of solar magic from Celestia, to my surprise the blast of magic broke through the shield and sent me tumbling like a rag-doll. I crash into a random house and groan in pain as I sit up. I look around to see two crystal mares staring at me with wide eyes. I give a toothy grin which wasn't the best option because they screamed and ran up stairs. Before I could react Celestia appeared at the hole I made in the house and used her telekinetic magic to throw me back on the streets.

I dig my claws in the crystal pavement to stop my trip and watch Celestia gracefully land in front of me with a stoic expression. Her orange eyes looking at my soul with murderous intent and her mane and tail burning wildly in the breeze and her solar magical aura surrounding her. She walked toward me her hooves cracking the ground as she walked as I put up my guard. I have been doing fairly well with close combat which meant that I had to try and avoid a fire fight or even a fight in the sky.

My own magical orange flame aura surrounded me as well. It was time to get serious, I had to win this fight, for Fluttershy. I walk toward her as well my expression stern. We stop in front of each other our faces inches from each other. I took the first strike, by turning my body and aiming to hit her head with my tail. Her wing moves and blocks my tail as i twist my body and brought both of my claws on her head in a downward strike sending her to the ground. I open my jaw attempting to blast her but got the wind knocked out of me as Celestia rammed her head into my stomach knocking me away.

I roll in a crouching stance and teleport in a blaze of flame behind her and ramming her sending the solar princess flying. I teleport in front of her and strike her with my head again sending her into another direction. I do this a few more times until it was literally a game of pinball. I send a powerful strike with my tail sending her flying in the air, my maw glows a bright orange as I shoot a massive beam of fire from my mouth into the sky, looking like a beacon of fire, toward Celestia. She, however, spread her wings and stopping in the air and threw up a shield as my flames impacted.

I didn't let up as I put more magic power in my flames as a bright orange explosion filled the sky, leaving only cloud of dark smoke. I spread my wings I fly up and stare into the cloud. Of course it wasn't that easy, because right as I hovered the black smoke was sent away by a powerful burst from Celestia who only had a few minor burns and scratches on her armor. Me however was starting to get a little tired. I had a few scrapes and bruises but it wasn't too bad....as of yet.

"Celestia, we don't have to keep doing this!" I called out to her to see if she would listen to reason.

"Seize your tongue dragon!" she answered back, "You are a threat to my little ponies and therefore mus the exterminated."

"Nightmare Moon is controlling your sister, Celestia! And she's controlling you too!"

"Nightmare Moon has freed my little sister, and my name is not Celestia no more! It's Solar Flare!"

I barely had time to react before getting blasted by a beam of solar energy, I screamed in pain as I swore I felt some of my scales burn off my body and was engulfed in a solar like explosion.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KUAltcR84k8

With Malefor

Malefor watched James get blasted away as he dodged another strike from Nightmare Moon. He cursed to himself as a blast of magic from Nightmare Moon grazed his shoulder. The dark dragon and the dark alicorn were squaring up in the skies. Malefor launched a blast of purple flames at Nightmare Moon who blocked with a light blue shield and followed up with her own blast. The darker version of James barely dodged the attack and charged Nightmare Moon, who began to fire a barrage of magical attacks at the dark dragon.

Malefor maneuvered in the air dodging the blasts sent his way and was getting closer to his target. He rammed the dark princess in the stomach and sent her flying into the wall that surrounded the empire. He ignited his horns in purple flames and spread his wings charging the princess. Nightmare quickly came back to her senses and teleported out of the way before the dark dragon impacted into the wall in a cloud of smoke and crystal. Malefor peeked out of the smoke, only to get a blast to the back sending him down to the streets below.

"Shit.." he cursed, "Even in the long-horned form, I can barely land a scratch on her. Speaking of which we really need to find a better name for this form-"

Before Malefor could finish his thought he was blasted back in a nearby cart making it explode in to shrapnel of wood. Nightmare Moon landed gracefully with a wicked grin as Malefor struggled to pick himself up due to the new burn marks on his body. He growled at the alicorn and channeled the dark magic in his body to transform into a shadow and use speeds that made Nightmare's eyes widened. He didn't give her a chance to react as he appeared behind her and launched a wave of purple flames at point blank.

He was surprised however when a feathered wing came out of the flames and slapped him aside canceling his attack. He smirked as Nightmare Moon walked out of the purple flames with minor burn marks, she was far from being actually hurt but at least he did something. The two stared at each other, red eyes glaring at turquoise ones, the two then vanished in a burst of speed and clashed against each other causing small shock waves throughout the area. Malefor swiped his claw against Nightmare Moon's face as she came back with a hoof to his gut sending him tumbling across the ground like a rag doll.

Malefor rolled and stopped his trip and sent a barrage of fireballs to ward Nightmare who put up a shield blocking the blasts with ease. Nightmare didn't expect Malefor to charge forward and collide into her shield breaking it on contact, she let out a curse as the dark dragon rammed her stomach with her his large horns and knocks her across the crystal pavement. he then spread his wings and took her up in the air and swiping her with his tail sending her back down to the ground below in a cloud of crystal and smoke.

Malefor descended and landed in front of the cloud of smoke as it cleared. He cursed as Nightmare Moon stood in front of him with dents in her armor but barely a scratch on her.

"You've got to be fucking kidding me." he growled, "That's all the damage I did."

"I'm impressed dragon," said Nightmare, "You managed to damage my armor, but you are still far behind from my level."

"Don't underestimate me 'princess'. I'm far stronger when we faced off in Manehattan."

"That cockiness will be your downfall!"

Nightmare and Malefor charged each other and collides in and explosion of purple and blue magical energy.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aXmXjxk7onM

Crystal Palace

"Dance my dragons! Dance!" laughed the possessed Discord as he rained lightning bolts on the group of dragons.

Bash pushed Flashwing from a strike and barely mange to dodge another. Sam fired her purple electricity back at the Spirit of Chaos only for it to bounce off him harmlessly. Drobot fired red lasers from his cybernetics which managed to stagger him when his guard was down but not cause any damage. The spirit of chaos laughed louder at their struggle, he was a little jealous that Solar Flare and Nightmare Moon had gotten to play with the two stronger dragons but he was till having fun.

Sam took the opportunity of him thinking to himself and flew up behind him, ready to swipe him with her tail only for Discord to grab her by the neck. The three other dragons growled and was about to launch their attacks at Discord on for him to put a claw to Sam's throat making them stop. The purple dragoness gulped and struggled to break free.

"One more move dragons and she dies." threatened Discord.

"Why are you doing this!" exclaimed Flashwing.

"I have had enough of you dragons! Thinking you are all high and mighty....and when someone comes along thinking better, you blame them of being arrogant!"

"So you decide to help that crazy princess kill us!" stepped in Bash.

"Of course! Once all you dragons are out the way, I'll be the one on top!"

Sam glared at him, "but you are the Spirit of Chaos already. Who else is above you?"

The possessed Discord chuckled madly and became serious, "I think you dragons know who is above me..."

It clicked in Drobot's head and his eyes widened, "You mean Shenron and Purunga."

"DING DING!," taunted Discord, "Those two are the only ones who can challenge my power without the Rainbow Power. So they are a threat."

"if you think you can take on Shenron and Porunga, then you're stupider than I thought." growled Bash.

Discord gave an evil and wicked smirk that made the dragons uncomfortable, "That's why I'll be tracking down those Dragon Lords and using their power to take them down."

The four dragons were shocked. The Dragon Lords were basically angels to Shenron and Porunga. Each Dragon Lord had a land to look over, there's one in the Badlands, another in Zebrafrica, and even one here in Equestria. Their duty is to make sure no invasion fore gets through to Thedas and t show the locals of that country the strength on the dragon army. If Discord steals their power and combine them with his, he'll be unstoppable.

"We won't let that happen!" exclaimed Sam as she bit Discord's hand making him let go. The four dragon elementals took the chance and launched their attacks at Discord causing a small explosion. The four were panting as Discord emerged from the smoke with an angry look on his face. "So it seems the gloves are coming off!" he launched a bolt of lighting at Sam who was too weak to move.

Time seemed to slow down as Sam watched the bolt head toward her heart, she could barely here Bash, Drobot, and Flashwing scream her name but was too busy in her own thoughts. She thought about her whole life and what brought her to this moment. from meeting James for the first time, to their first kiss, to her death, to her arriving in Equestria, to her meeting reuniting with James as a dragon, and here she is about to experience death again. Only this time there was no second chances. She wondered if she would ever dream, or if there was a higher being waiting to judge her for her past actions.

"What are you doing! Move out the way!" yelled a familiar feminine voice.

Sam snapped out of her thoughts and was surprised to see Princess Twilight Sparkle in front of her blocking the the lightning attack with a magical purple shield. She would question why the purple alicorn was helping her but immediately decided against it and moved out the way. Twilight teleported beside Sam as the bolt whizzed past them. Cadence, Shining, Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow, Derpy, Bolt, and Pinkie was now standing with Bash, Drobot, and Flashwing.

"Why?" asked Sam.

Twilight smiled, "Because I can' be a Princess of Friendship if I can't help friend in need. Also James would be devastated if he found out you were gone."

Sam noticed the sadness in her voice, "You really do like him do you?"

Twilight blushes and nods, "We didn't leave off on the best terms and I want to make things right with him. I'm happy that Fluttershy found somepony that could take care of her."

"We have to survive this if you want to make it up to him. And also....don't give up just yet."

Twilight was confused at what she meant, but just nodded thinking she'll just ask her about it later. The dragoness and Princess of Friendship joined up with the others who were now in a stare down with Discord. Discord looked like he was about to explode. He was having fun with these dragons and these ponies just had to butt in. it didn't matter now, at least he has more playthings to toy around with.

"Discord! Stop this! This isn't you!" shouted Cadence.

"Yeah dude! Your being controlled by Nightmare Moon!" added Rainbow Dash.

Discord scoffed, "As if I let someone as low as Nightmare Moon control me."

"Come on Discord! Whats Flutters gonna th'nk?" stated Applejack.

"Yeah!" agreed Derpy and Pinkie.

The Spirit of Chaos stayed quiet as he thought of the yellow pegasus. The one pony he called friend more than any other being he knew. She was the only one that was kind to him when he was reforming and that damned dragon, James, took her away from him. He was going to pay for that, but he had to make sure he didn't die to Celestia and Luna before he could have his revenge on him.

"Fluttershy made her choice when she sided with that dragon. He will die along with her." stated Discord.

"You aren't laying a single dirty paw on Fluttershy and my brother!" exclaimed Rarity as Bolt growled.

Discord laughed, "Brother!? Out of all the ridiculous things I heard that takes the cake. maybe I'll spare you."

Rarity gulped but kept a stern expression, "Discord you are vastly out-numbered and out-gunned just give it up and let us help you." Shining said trying to speak reason to the Spirit of Chaos.

"You are right you do out-number me...let's fix that." Discord smirked as he was encased in a bright flash blinding the group. When the light died down there in front of them was a group of about twenty Discords wearing silver knight armor and yellow glowing eyes.

"Who's out-numbered now?" said all the Discords as they charged the group.

Act 2: A New Struggle

View Online

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xY-nCNFb7fA&t=33s

Crystal Empire; With James

James opened his purple irises, only to nothing but blurs. He groaned in pain as he sat up and rubbed his reptilian eyes. His sight came back in focus as he took a look at his surrounding. From the looks of things, Celestia's, or in this case Solar Flare's blast sent him into what used to be a house. He hoped no one was inside the house when he landed, he struggled to stand back up on all fours as he took a look at himself. He was back to his regular form and plastered with cuts, bruises, and burn marks. Blood leaked out from his nose and from the spots where some of his scales were missing. This would have to be the worst thrashing he ever had, maybe even worse when he fought Malefor in Canterlot.

He stumbled out of the ruined house to find Solar Flare waiting for him with her usual scowl. James cursed to himself that she was only had minor injuries. How did Celestia and Luna get so strong? His long-horned form should've been more than enough to handle her. It worked with Luna back in Manehattan, even if Celestia is a bit more powerful they couldn't be that far in power could they? It was then it his James like a speeding train. Have they been holding back this entire time? How powerful are they? Clearly more powerful than him and Malefor. The purple dragon gritted his teeth and was about to charge, only to hear an explosion to the right of them gaining the two's attention.

Skidding to the purple dragon's side was Malefor, in the same condition as him, covered in cuts, burn marks, and bruises and degraded to his normal form. Nightmare dropped beside her sister as they both glared in the two dragons direction. They didn't know how long they could keep this up, especially with them back in their normal forms, but they had to try.

"You...look like...shit.." panted Malefor.

"Like...you're one...to talk.." replied James as he winced from his wounds.

"Those two are definitely stronger than before"

"And something tells me we're just getting started. Malefor....we need to work together on this one and watch each other backs"

"Agreed, because if you die so do I."

"Are you two done chatting or are going back to what we started?" called out Nightmare Moon with a cocky grin. This was going better than she thought. These two dragons were causing trouble for her and her sister at first but now they've seem to be close to keeling over. She knew though not to underestimate these dragons for she learned from what happened with their last battle in Manehattan. Discord should've taken care of those other dragons by now though. Were they stronger than she thought? No they couldn't be strong enough to take on Discord, even if it is four on one. That means one of two things must be delaying him. He's either toying with the dragons to settle his amusement or Twilight and the other ponies decided to jump in and help making Discord's task in destroying the dragons a bit more complicated. Now that she thought about it a bit more it could be both of those possibilities.

"Its over dragons." called out Solar Flare, "Just give up and accept your fate. Your evil doings have plagued Equestria long enough."

"She really has Celestia twisted." said Malefor, getting in a battle stance.

"yeah, we need to somehow snap Celestia, Discord, and Luna out of it." replied James.

"Isn't Luna the one controlling them?"

James shakes his head, "No, Nightmare Moon is controlling them. She's just using Luna as a host to do so."

"Then lets beat them down and knock them back to their senses."

The two dragons surprised the controlled alicorns in front of them as they spiked their magic power. Their eyes widened as the two purple dragons transformed back in to their long-horned forms. This couldn't be! The two dragons were literally about to pass out from their wounds and yet they still have enough magic power to transform. This frustrated the two alicorns, none of this made sense! They spiked their own magic power and glared at the two, it seems that they would have to go full power if they wanted to be sure that these dragons stayed down.

James and Malefor shuddered a bit at their power. This was going to be their last battle with these two. They were all going to give it their all The two dragons were either going to die or free Celestia and Luna from being controlled. The two dragons barely saw the two princesses move as they were both hit with strikes to the face and was sent back a couple feet. Malefor recovered first and grabbed James and threw him toward the two in as the purple dragon ignited in a comet of orange flames. James collided with Nightmare, knocking her back. Solar was about to blast him only for Malefor to drop form the sky and knock her aim off course and make her fire off some were in the sky above.

Nightmare charged back in fired multiple projectiles at James as the purple dragon put up a fire shield which barely lasted long. The shield exploded when Nightmare impacted the shield as James was then stabbed in his should by her horn. He growled in pain as he was picked up and thrown to the side. Some of his woulds had started to open back up as fresh blood now leaked from his injured shoulder. He charged Nightmare once again and bit her foreleg making her grunt and flip her over his head and slam her on the crystal ground creating a few cracks underneath them. James let go and then launched a torrent of flames at the lunar princess point blank.

He groaned in pained as Nightmare came out of the flames and head butted him. The force of her head but was so strong it managed to send the purple dragon into a nearby shop. Nightmare didn't let James have a chance to recover as she fired a few magical beams in the shop causing it to explode upon impact. Once the smoke cleared the shop was no mores than a pile of wood and crystal. She walked forward knowing that he was still alive but was surprised at what she saw. There was James with his body over a crystal mare shielding her from her blast. She must've still been inside when they were fighting, but why was this dragon saving this mare? He was evil right?

Flashback; Manehattan

Then everything became quiet.

The rain had stopped.

And the thunder becoming silent.

The clouds parted showing the night sky and the full moon.

He walked up to Luna as she sent him a hateful glare,"Do it dragon...finish me." she said closing her eyes.

"C-Come on, d-do it!" sobbed Luna.

"No." simply answered James as Luna's eyes widened.

"W-what...why?"

"Because I'm proving you wrong. I'm not the monster you labeled me as. And hopefully after this you can see that."

"Get out of here monster!"

"Leave our princess alone!"

"We hope you burn!"

James flashed her a small smile before he and Malefor was engulfed in flames and disappeared from the area. Leaving behind a scorch mark and a beaten princess.

Present Day; Crystal Empire

Nightmare felt a groan of pain in her head as that memory flashed in her mind. This wasn't good. If Luna came back in control then everything that she worked for would've been for nothing.

James groaned in pain as he lifted himself off of the crystal mare. He thanked God that he was able to make it to her on time before Nightmare beams hit the shop. He asked if she was okay and she nodded in response clearly fearful at what was happening around her. James smiled and told her to get somewhere safe as the crystal mare nodded and sand ran off. James turned his attention back to Nightmare with his glare more sharp than ever. The glare sent shivers down Nightmare Moon's spine, why was she so afraid of that glare? James shot towards her faster then she realized and struck her with his extended horns knocking her back.

Meanwhile not to far away, Malefor was holding his own against Solar Flare. The two were in the air dodging and receiving strikes form one another creating small shock-waves that filled the sky. Solar Flare lit up her horn and blasted Malefor in the chest with a beam of solar magic, sending him to the ground below. The dark dragons knocked the beam away before he could impact and landed on all of his fours and skids back a bit. Malefor panted as Solar Flare descended back down to his level with a stoic stare.

"You two surprised us," states the corrupt Celestia, "We didn't think you could be this strong. You could even rival Shenron and Porunga, with the right guidance."

Malefor raised an eyebrow, "What the fuck are you talking about?"

"Join us Malefor, me and my sister will show you the true power you and James possess. You'll be able to rule over Thedas with an iron claw and no one would are to challenge you."

Malefor stayed silent as a shadow crept over his face. Was Solar Flare really making him this offer? Why was he hesitating to say yes? His old self from about a month ago would've agreed without a problem. It was then everything then came crashing down on the darker version of James. He wasn't really who he said he was, he wasn't Malefor, he wasn't even supposed to be a dragon. He's a human from Earth, his name was James. His thoughts then went back to the changelings and how they depended on him to get them a home to live here. It was the only way for them to survive, they even made them their king for God's sake! He would not fail Chrysalis, Shift and his sister Fade, and also the other changelings. As king of them he had to do his best to protect them. He didn't know why but his thoughts suddenly shifted to a certain blue show mare. Trixie was the first one who've been...decent to him ever since he arrived here. He couldn't explain why he needed her so close. Ever since him and her arrived at the hive he had been having this nagging urge to make sure nothing happens to her. He couldn't accept Solar Flare's offer, not only did he not want to but also the fact that way too many people were counting on him to win this fight.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MdPL3--hZzo

"You know what," Malefor says, "You can go fuck yourself."

Solar Flare frowned at this as Malefor continued.

"If you think I'm going to just give up like that then you have another thing coming!" the dragon yelled as dark purple aura burst around him, "I go by many names! King, dragon, James, but there is one that you will remember! And that name is Malefor!"

The dark dragon then launched a giant wave of purple flames at Solar Flare, who was quick enough to blast a beam of solar magic back. The two collided in a magic beam struggle of the two trying to over power the other. Malefor grunted as he started to lose focus but stood his ground and released more magic power. His eyes widened when he saw Nightmare Moon land beside Solar Flare and combined their beams to make a more powerful one. What happened to James? He was being pushed back even more now as his claws scraped against the crystal ground trying to keep himself in place. He sensed something next to him and looked to see James next to him. James smirked and nodded to him as he nodded back.

The original human turned dragon released his orange flames intertwining them in Malefor's purple ones as their magic started to push back against the alicorns. The two sisters grunted in strain as James added his power to the fray, this was it the last attack. Who ever won this struggle would win the battle. Either the James and Malefor are wiped from existence or the two sisters would fail in their mission. The four then noticed that the amount of magic power they were sending out was becoming to be unstable but none the less they kept going as they all started to glow. James was glowing a bright orange, Malefor was glowing a dark purple, Nightmare a dark blue, and Celestia a dark yellow. The light blinded everything that was in their area as an explosion was set off.

The beams that were unstable had reached their limit and imploded on themselves blasting away everything in a five mile radius away into nothingness. The only thing that remained was the massive crater, the ground was still shaking due to the aftershocks of the explosion. Once the smoke cleared one could see four figures standing in the crater.

Solar Flare and Nightmare Moon, had brought up a shield just in time to protect themselves form most of the blast. They had burn marks on them and a few bruises, but the same couldn't be said to the two dragons in front of them. The both of them were both unconscious and barely alive. They had returned to their regular forms, with most of their scales either bloody, burned, or missing all together. The two sisters could only stare at the dragons but they didn't smile. How could they? These dragons almost beat them.

"That was too close for comfort" stated Nightmare Moon.

"Indeed, it seems like Discord is still dealing with the others." responded Solar Flare.

"Yes. How about we show those other dragons and those traitors what happens when they defy us?"

"Agreed sister."

Act 2: A New Hope

View Online

A Few Minutes Earlier

Rarity was in a hiding spot with Derpy and Bolt as they watched from the sidelines as the group of ponies and dragons were starting to get surrounded by the clones of Discord. The white unicorn had to admit, even if she was against it, that it was pretty interesting watching her friends fight together as a group. It reminded her when her and her friends stood together against the changelings, when the bug like ponies attacked Canterlot and even Trixie joined in with them to help as much as she can. Shining Armor and Cadence was moving as if they were one pony, watching each other's backs and combing their magical attacks. She was surprised even the dragons had managed to have their own kind of teamwork. Sam using her dark lighting blasts to decimate her foes, Bash using his brute strength, Drobot using his intellect and advanced gadgetry, and Flashwing controlling the crystals around her to her advantage.

However it didn't seem like it was going to be enough, for every Discord that fell, another one just took their place. She held on to James' pet companion Bolt, as she watched the group being surrounded in a tight circle as the army of Discords started to march closer. She could feel the white shepherd in her forelegs start to shake in nervousness as he fidgeted in his place. Rarity noticed that he was staring off somewhere other than the battle He started to whine which made her more worried and confused. Derpy seemed to notice as well and cocked her head tot he side.

"Bolt dear," Rarity asked the dog, "What's wrong?"

"Yeah, what do you see?" added Derpy

A sudden explosion of orange, yellow, blue, and purple made itself known at another part of the Empire. Strong winds and tremors from the aftershock came their way as Rarity held on to Bolt and Derpy to brace themselves. The other group fell over and the army of Discords vanished leaving the original as the Spirit of Chaos dug his talons on the ground to anchor himself from the immense power. The explosion died down and the winds and shaking eventually came to a cease. Then everything was quiet.

"What the hay was that!" exclaimed Rainbow Dash wobbling to her hooves.

The corrupt Discord chuckled as the group set their worried and stern gazes at him,"It seems that your precious dragons have failed to defeat both Solar Flare and Nightmare Moon."

This made the group freeze.

"But don't worry," continued Discord,"The two princesses aren't going to dispose of them...yet."

"And what do you mean by that Discord!" exclaimed Twilight.

"You lot need to understand what happens when you go against the likes of us!"

As if on cue Nightmare Moon and Solar Flare teleported at Discord's sides which made the ponies and dragons not gasp at their sudden appearance but the beaten and unconscious forms of James and Malefor in their magical grip. The two dragons were flung toward the group and waking up form the impact as they tumbled in front of the dragons and ponies. The group immediately rushed to their aid as they grunted in pain trying to stand. Twilight and Sam were at both of James' sides and supporting him up by both of his forearms, while Malefor was being supported by Trixie. Derpy, Rarity, and Bolt went over to join them to see if their was anything they could do to help.

"Are you two alright?" asked Cadence with concern in her voice.

"Does it...look like....we're alright..." grunted Malefor as he spat out some blood.

Shining was about to scold the dark dragon for insulting his wife with his sarcasm but decided that it wasn't the time, "You two are in bad shape. If you don't get help soon...."

"We'll be fine," said James cutting off Shining Armor, "As...long as me and Malefor.....are still breathing....we can still fight..."

"Are you even hearing yourself!" stepped in Twilight with concern and anger behind her tone, "You two can barely talk and stand!"

"I agree with the princess," added Sam, "James, you and Malefor did what you can but you need to leave it to us now."

Malefor chuckled, "A-and you think that....you all can beat all three....of th-them when me and James...couldn't handle two of them? Hell....Y-you can't e-even beat the c-circus freak."

"He has a point," stated Drobot, "Our chances of survival are severally dwindled if we face Solar Flare, Nightmare Moon, and Discord at once."

Bash growled in annoyance from the tight corner they were put in, "Thanks for the words of confidence buddy." he said sarcastically.

"Well we have ta' try!" said Applejack, "We beat Nightmare Moon and Discord before... so how could anything be different this time?"

"P-please...just give up..." stuttered James, "Its me and Malefor they want..."

"You all....w-will be throwing your live away...f-f-or n-nothing..." added Malefor.

"You two are not nothing, darling" said Rarity, "If we didn't care why would we be helping you in the first place?"

Derpy nodded, "Yeah! We always have our friends backs! No matter what!"

Bolt barked in agreement.

Malefor could only chuckle at their stubbornness. To be honest he understood why the ponies and other dragons would help James. But why him? Now that he thought about it wasn't this whole situation started because of his rampage in Canterlot? Trixie he could understand but the others? "I can...see why you love these ponies so much....James." he said with a painful smile, "Even these other dragons.....they really care for...you."

The rest of the group looked shocked but couldn't help but smile at Malefor's sudden change in tone. "B-but why help me? Why h-help a dragon that started this whole situation?" He looked to the group but was shocked when he suddenly felt a peck on his cheek. The dark dragon felt his cheeks warm up as he looked to see Trixie with the same blush.

"You big lug," the blue showmare stated, "Can't you see they forgive you?"

"But..."

"Malefor," Flashwing said cutting off the dark dragon, "You have done more than enough for redemption. You are helping to save a doomed race. You could've killed Trixie when you first met but didn't and you helped James here escape from Canterlot and was willing to stall time for us to escape Manehattan."

"You've done more than enough for redemption." said James, "You are me after all.....even if you are an asshole."

"If your done, I recommend we get back to the matter at hand." called out Discord gaining their attention as the two alicorns smirked beside him.

"It is time for all of your punishments!" added Solar Flare.

"And it will be slow an painful." finished Nightmare as the group prepared themselves for another fight.

Crystal Palace

Scootaloo followed Spike and Applebloom through the halls of the Crystal Palace, luckily Spike was known as a hero here so they managed to get passed guards no problem. The orange filly and Applebloom didn't know what they were supposed to be looking for, Spike hadn't told what they were getting or looking for. It annoyed her that she was being kept in the dark, but she decided to let it go at the moment since their purple dragon friend is in trouble. She, Applebloom and Spike hoped that they would make it to James in time before things got too bad.

They turned around another corner as Spike sniffed the air. From what Scootaloo and Applebloom could see he was using his sense of smell to see where he was going. She didn't know he could do that, do all dragons have that strong of smell? She should probably save that for later. As they were rushing through the halls they saw what seems to be two of Luna's guards standing in front of what looked to be a guest room.

"That's it." whispered Spike.

"Really," replied Scootaloo, "Then what are we waiting for? And why are we whispering?"

"Yeah, whats the deal?" added Applebloom.

"Because I have a gut feeling that they won't let us in because of who's in there." answered Spike

The orange purple maned filly put on a confused look Who? What was Spike talking about? "What are getting at Spike? Who's in there?" the yellow country filly asked.

"Fluttershy," he answered, "I managed to hear what was going on outside when we were with Sweetie and Dinky. It turns out they brought Fluttershy here for some reason."

"Why would they do that?" asked Applebloom.

Spike shrugged, "I don't know but that what I'm going to find out."

The three children ran over to the door and after some convincing from Spike the two crystal guards finally gave in and left their posts. Not after getting an autograph form the baby dragon which made Applebloom and Scootaloo roll their eyes in slight annoyance. Spike slowly opened the door and walked inside the room being followed by Applebloom and Scootaloo.

"Hello?" called out Spike, "Fluttershy? Are you here?"

"Its us! Scootaloo, Applebloom, and Spike!" added Applebloom.

Some shuffle form the blankets caught their attention as a familiar yellow pegasus appeared from under the bed with a terrified and worried look on her features. Dried tear stains were on her cheeks as her eyes widened at the sight of Spike, Applebloom, and Scootaloo. How did they get here? Why were they here? It's too dangerous for any them of them to be right now! Her gaze landed on Spike as her heart dropped. Would Nightmare Moon go far enough to kill Spike? No...Princess Luna would never hurt Spike.....

"Fluttershy, are yo ok?" asked Scootaloo making the pink maned pegasus squeak. She nodded and made her way out of the bed.

"What happened Fluttershy?" asked Applebloom.

"Yeah," stepped in Spike, "Why were you locked in here like this?"

Fluttershy shook her head as he voice started to crack, "I-I....J-James...." fresh tears started to stream down her cheeks as she thought back to a familiar purple dragon wrapped in chains. She remembered gaining the courage to confess her feelings to James and for standing up to Princess Luna of all ponies and then being dragged away to this room by the guards. She cried for what felt like hours as her chest tightened due to her being helpless to save the dragon that she loved. She felt a bit of relief when she felt the castle tremble and the sounds of battle outside. It didn't make her feel any better however, her friends were fighting each other and she hated it.

She was snapped from her thoughts as she felt Spike rub her fore-hoof in comfort. She sniffed and ribbed her tears, "I'm..A-Alright..." she choked out as she composed herself, "Still...just a little shaken..."

"What is going on?" asked Spike.

"And where is James?" added Scootaloo.

"Is he in trouble?" finished Applebloom.

Fluttershy nodded and started from the beginning. She started from the battle from Canterlot, to James' disappearance, to him being in Manehattan, to the Crystal Empire, and how she got locked in the room. Spike, Applebloom, and Scootaloo listened closely and couldn't believe what they were hearing. So the reason why their dragon friend wasn't in Ponyville was because of him being wrongfully accused and hunted down by almost everypony in Equestria. Fluttershy then noticed something that made her worried.

"Where's Sweetie Belle? And what happened to Dinky?" Fluttershy asked.

"Oh! Sweetie and Dinky went to go help James!" answered Scootaloo with a smile as Fluttershy had a look of horror.

"What! Its too dangerous!" exclaimed Fluttershy, "We have to go get them before they get hurt! And go save James in the process!"

The three children nodded in agreement and ran out of the room with Fluttershy and made their ways through the halls of the Crystal Palace. Spike had noticed how assertive Fluttershy had gotten. Could it be because of her protecting her friends? Or maybe it was because of her love for James? He quickly shook the thoughts form his head and focused on the task at hand. He just hoped that everyone was alright.

Crystal Grounds

"We are not alright" stated James as picked himself up off of the crystal ground. He looked around to see the rest of his friends in the same condition as him. He grit his teeth in anger as he saw them struggling to stand back up, Discord had hit them with a surprise attack knocking them all away. Luckily no one but him and Malefor got hurt to bad, only a little dazed. That was it, him and Malefor won't let anyone of their friends get hurt because of them anymore. They were going to end this or they were going to die trying. The sound of laughter brought his attention in front of him as he saw Nightmare Moon, Solar Flare, and Discord.

"It seems you're at your limit dragon," stated Nightmare Moon as her horn started to glow, "Any last words dragon?"

Before James could answer a sudden "STOP!" caused Nightmare Moon could turn her head. James was surprised to see two familiar set of four little hooves. What? Why are they here!? This is probably the worst possible time they could be here! Standing in front of the purple dragon was none other than Dinky and Sweetie Belle, both glaring at the tree possessed beings.

"What is this?" questioned Nightmare Moon.

"Sw-Sweetie....D-Dinky...? What are you doing here?" stuttered James as the two fillies looked back and ran toward him and tackling him to the ground in an embrace. He grunted in pain because of his wounds but ignored them for the moment as he embraced the two fillies back.

"You two shouldn't have come," said James, "It's too dangerous!"

"But we wanted to help you!" protested Sweetie.

"Yeah!" agreed Dinky, "You are our friend!"

"You two get out of here! I don't know what I'll do if you two got hurt!" pleaded James.

"Sweetie!?" Rarity said as she saw her little sister by the injured purple dragon.

"Dinky!?" said Derpy the same time as Rarity,

The two fillies ignored their calls and kept their eyes on James before turning around facing Nightmare Moon, Solar Flare, and Discord. James would get up and stop them if he wanted to but he was too weak to move form his spot on the ground. For the two fillies they couldn't deny that they were getting the souls scared out of them by the three menacing figures in front of them. However they swallowed that fear for their friend, they took a deep breath and stomped their little hooves on the ground.

"You leave James alone!" squeaked out Dinky.

"Yeah! Other than Spike he is the nicest dragon I have ever met!" added Sweetie.

Solar Flare scoffed, "This 'nice' dragon has cause terror and panic throughout Equestria!"

"He has taken the lives of guards and separated them from their families." added Discord.

"No! It's not-" James cut off Sweetie.

"It's true..." James said making the two fillies turn to him, "It's my fault all of this is happening.....if I wasn't here everything would be back to normal for you...."

Not only Sweetie and Dinky had shocked expressions but also the rest of the group, besides Malefor, James could only sigh as he looked to the ground and continued, "I did hurt those guards when I was attacked.....maybe even....worse.", James fought back his tears but found it to no avail, "I think it was better if you, Applebloom, and Scootaloo left me to die in that damned forest," he couldn't have the strength to look at the two fillies or his other friends around him, "Just leave me...." James clenched his eyes shut but then felt two heavy weights around his neck. He peeked open to see Sweetie and Dinky hugging him and crying as well.

"Wh-What..." stuttered James.

"We don't care!" exclaimed Dinky snuggling in his neck.

"Yeah!" added Sweetie holding him tighter, "Your like my...my....brother!"

"And....your the closest thing....to a d-daddy....that I have."

Everyone around was taken back from the scene, even the three possessed beings was shocked by the two fillies expressing their feelings for the dragon. Nightmare grit her teeth as he coat flashed from dark to light, Luna was getting stronger and soon she would take over again and this whole plan would be for nothing. She had to end this now! "It seems we have two more traitors to Equestria!" she shouted as her horn started to glow again.

"Luna!" shouted James, "Their just kids leave them out of this!" shouted James as Sweetie and Dinky hid under his wings.

"I am known as Nightmare Moon, dragon! You have corrupted these poor fillies! I'm just purifying them of your evil magic!"

"Are you out of your mind!" shouted Rainbow Dash.

"Princess Luna this is going too far!" shouted Twilight.

"Please let my muffin go!" added Derpy.

"Sweetie doesn't deserve this!" cried out Rarity.

"They should've thought twice about their actions then!" Nightmare Moon screams and blasts a blue beam of magical at the three. Time seemed to slow down for the group as James held on to Sweetie and Dinky hoping to shield them from the blast. He clenched his eyes awaiting for the blast to make impact. He could here Rarity and Derpy cry for the two fillies. He felt them hug tighter to him as he could literally feel the heat of the blast come closer to them. This was it......he was going to die...he knows that the others would be devastated for his death but at least he won't cause any more harm to them. He just hoped that Nightmare Moon would show them mercy.

Malefor had other plans though.

The darker version of James, jumped in front of the blast and used whatever magic power he had left to send a blast of flame knocking it off course. Malefor dropped to his knees in front of the three facing Nightmare Moon with a glare, "Don't I get a say if you kill yourself or not?" he spat out, "Don't you remember that if you die I dies as well.....and I'm not finished with these assholes yet."

James nodded still shocked by Malefor's sudden appearance, "Thanks...." he looked toward the two fillies clinging on too him for dear life under his wings, "Are you two alright?" he asked with a worried expression. They both nodded making James give a warm smile. He glance toward Nightmare Moon and sent her a glare that made her get a chill down her spine. The dark princess had never seen a glare like that in a long time. Not since.....Shenron. She knew that look, it was the look of anger, a look of determination, and the look of a fierce beast.

James' features darkened as he spoke in a low voice, "Sweetie, Dinky go back with the others and let me and Malefor handle this."

"B-But..." started the both of them but stopped when they saw the seriousness of the purple drake. They both nodded and gave him one final hug which he gladly accepted. Before they left he kissed both of their foreheads making them smile and run back. James struggled to stand and limped next to Malefor, "Hows it going asshole." he smirked making Malefor chuckle.

"I've been better, shit head" Malefor answered back.

"You know what we have to do right?"

"Yeah....and I don't like it."

"It's the only way we can have a chance of winning though?"

"We don't know if we would ever be the same again..."

"Only one way to find out..."

"James!" called out a familiar voice causing the two dragons to turn around to see Fluttershy out of breath with Applebloom, Scootaloo, and Spike riding on her back. James fought the urge to run to the yellow pegasus and scoop her in his arms but he couldn't. He was glad to see that she wasn't harmed and that somehow Spike, Applebloom, and Scootaloo had managed to free her. He could watch Twilight and the others doing their best to hold Fluttershy form running into the battlefield. He glanced over at Sam and the other dragons, who nodded as he gave them a thumbs up.

"Hehehe," chuckled Solar Flare, "What chance do you two think you have?"

"Indeed," stepped in the possessed Discord, "You two couldn't even beat these two in your transformed states. How do you plan to beat three of us while in your normal states and the fact that you are both severally injured."

"What else can two downed lizards possibly do?" smirked Nightmare.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJY6NLBW6sY

James and Malefor looked at each other and nodded. James held out his claw as Malefor did they same, everyone around them was confused at what was going on, until they both grabbed each other talons. The two dragons then started to glow a bright blue as dark clouds began to cover the skies. The two dragons grit their teeth and glared at the three as they started to glow brighter. Nightmare Moon, Solar Flare, and Discord were too shocked at the sudden burst of power to do anything. Where were these two dragons hiding such power! And why does it always seem that when victory was in their grasp these two dragons always to have something up their sleeve. The light was glowing brighter making the group of ponies and dragons and even the three possessed beings to cover their eyes. A beam of light blue shone like a beacon in the sky almost breaking the shield that surrounded the Empire.

"This magical energy is overwhelming!" grunted Twilight.

"I'm not calculating a limit to their power!" exclaimed Drobot.

"Whats happening to them!?" shouted back Pinkie.

The beam from the two dragons started to crack the ground making the three evil beings to step back. Hurricane like winds were blowing through the Empire making the ponies hold on for dear life. Twilight and Cadence quickly casted a shielding spell around the group so they wouldn't get blown away from the harsh winds.

"What the hay is up with the winds? Aren't we supposed to be inside the shield?" asked Applejack

"I think its from James and Malefor." answered Flashwing.

Bolt barks in agreement.

The light finally died down as the beam disappeared, the clouds dispersed and the dust cleared. Twilight and Cadence deactivated the shield around the group. The group however didn't see James and Malefor, but one dragon standing facing his back towards them. His scales shining a bright blue, with his spines, horns, and claws a glowing gold. His eyes were closed as a blue magical heat surrounded him. The group of ponies and dragons looked in awe at the newcomer as the blue dragon opened his eyes which showed bright red irises.

"Wh-Who is that?" stuttered Rarity.

"And where is Malefor and James?" added Trixie looking around for any sign of the dragon.

"They are in front of you." answered Bash answering Trixie's question.

"Um...I think you need to check again, I only see one dragon there not two." stated Shining Armor.

"No it is them," stated Sam, "James and Malefor managed to finally fuse into one being."

The newly formed James stared at the three with a stern expression. He then turned back to the group of ponies, dragons, and dog and noticed, their shocked expressions. The ponies didn't know what kind of magic this was, yes it was heard of dragons using elemental magic, but to see it used like this was unheard of. The dragons however knew James and Malefor had this kind of ability however. Like them, James is part of elemental type dragons like, water, fire, earth, life, death, and tech. What makes him so special though is that not only can he tap into one of these elements but all six of them, that is where Malefor comes in. As the dragons already knew Malefor is a darker version of James, but to be more technically he s the death element that separated from James' body and now that they were reunited.........and they didn't expect him to be this powerful.

James then spoke in a calm but threatening tone, and even with a light echo, that sent chills down everyone's spines as he gazed at Discord, Solar Flare, and Nightmare Moon.

"I'm done holding with reasoning," he says, "You three assholes brought this on yourselves."

Act 2: A New Comeback

View Online

Crystal Empire Grounds

"Th-This is impossible..." said Cadance with a shocked expression.

"Trixie agrees..." added the blue showmare, "I have researched all I can about dragons before, but I've never knew that they could achieve this kind of magical power."

Sam nodded, "That's because there are things we dragons do not want other races to know about."

"And I'm guessing this is one of those things?" asked Applejack.

"Yeah, but what James and Malefor did was only supposed to be a myth. Until they showed up."

The purple female had to be honest that she was kind of jealous of James. He always played the hero for the ones he cared about. Her thoughts drifted to when she and James were both humans and had their first date. She always blamed herself for getting shot that night and leaving James alone. Now he had three other girls going after his heart, and what scared her was that, not only would he choose one of them over her, but he would forget the times they had together back on Earth. She snapped herself from her thought process and saw the four mares, Fluttershy, Twilight, Trixie and Derpy standing the furthest from the group watching James. She sighed and waled up to join them and coughed gaining their attention.

"When this is over, we're all going to have a long talk with James." said Sam.

"Y-yeah...we know." answered Twilight.

"We just hope, we can work something out." added Derpy.

"Yeah, I don't want to lose my friends over this." stepped in Fluttershy.

"Speak for your selves," added Trixie, "I'm just hoping Malefor gets out of this ok."

They all nodded and watched the blue dragon stare down Solar Flare, Nightmare Moon, and Discord, as the five couldn't help but blush at his serious features. The newly formed James then slowly walked forward with the same stern expression as worry began to set in the group watching him. The dragons knew from the fusion of James and Malefor that their power would rise to greater heights but they didn't know if it was enough to take on two alicorns AND a spirit of chaos.

"W-will he be alright?" asked Sweetie.

"Yeah, I don't want him getting to hurt." replied Dinky.

"I don't know," answered Spike, "but....I have a feeling that hes going to be okay."

James stopped walking toward the trio until he was just a few feet in front of them. His blue magical aura radiating off him like a calm flame. The three shook at the amount of power that was so close to them, until Discord snapped out of his shocked state and chuckled menacingly before excelling to full out laughter. The two alicorns looked at why he was laughing as James' expression hadn't changed.

"HAHAHAHAHAHA!'" the spirit of chaos crazily laughed, "You really think just because you merged bodies you can defeat me! I'm Discord! Spirit of chaos and disharmony!" he screamed out toward the dragon.

James however stood unfazed by his outburst.

"If your that confident then die!" he exclaimed as he clenched his glowing talon as multiple lighting strikes struck down where James stood creating a magical, electrical explosion. The group covered their faces from the dust and the crystal debris. Discord laughed maniacally as he summoned more lightning strikes on the blue dragon, "You can go to hell!" he shouted sending a final more powerful strike as a bright yellow explosion shook the area. Nightmare Moon and Solar Flare took to the skies not wanting to be caught in the explosion as the other group of ponies and dragons braced themselves.

"James!" the group of ponies and dragons exclaimed.

"Next time warn us before you throw a tantrum like that Discord." said Solar Flare from the air.

Discord only scoffed as he looked at the cloud of smoke, "It seemed I over did it."

"At least he's dead," said Nightmare, "Its a shame, I actually thought he was going to be a challe....WHAT!?"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EkpXKIMbIg8

The three looked at the cloud of smoke and dust created by Discord, only for a familiar blue and gold dragon to walk out with no damage or even a scratch on his body. Discord trembled in fear as he took a step back, "I-Impossible....That was one of my strongest spells!"

"Like I said," stated James, "I'm through playing with you assholes."

Before Discord knew it the blue dragon was already in front of him and ramming his stomach his his horns. Discord coughed up as the air was knocked form his lungs and he was sent tumbling across the crystal ground like a rag doll. The spirit of chaos recovered and skid across the ground slowing down his trip only for James to teleport above him and swipe his tail on top of Discord's head slamming it deep in the crystal ground causing cracks to form beneath. James landed in front of him as the spirit of chaos let out a curse in the ground. The blue and gold dragon grabbed DIscord's head with his talon and lifted his head before slamming it back down into the ground.

When he lifted his head again the blue dragon dodged two yellow magical beams shooting from Discord's eyes and flew in the air. The spirit of chaos grunted in pain and anger as he glared at the blue dragon in the sky, "How could you hurt me! I'm literally chaos!"

"It's time for you to go down Discord." stated James as he spread his wings and shot toward Discord faster than even his eyes could see. Before he knew it the blue dragon had both talons on his midsection, he was confused on what the dragon had planned until the they started to glow a bright blue. It was too late for Discord to move as he was consumed by the blue light and he screamed out in pain as he passed out on the floor not moving and his breathes shallow and heavy.

James could only give the spirit of chaos a stern look before looking at the two sisters in the air. He was amused by their shocked expression due to him taking down Discord like it was nothing. He looked at them as he spread his wings as wide as he could and flew up to their level.

"I'm going to give you two one last chance." he called out to them, "Let Luna and Celestia go, or you'll end up like Discord."

"Discord was weak and uncoordinated!" exclaimed Solar Flare.

"But me and my sister together will be more than enough to beat you." as more Nightmare Moon as James sighed as more of his magical heat began to surround his body.

"Then I guess we're doing this the hard way." he answered before both of the sisters charged him with Solar Flare lunging at him with her horn first, which James easily dodged by spinning in the air. The blue dragon then easily blocked a ram from Nightmare Moon but he was pushed back a bit in the air. Using his wings to slow his trip he somersaulted in the air and charged the two once again. He let out a breath of blue flames at the two but grunted in annoyance as the two alicorns dodged it.

Solar Flare shot a beam of solar magic at the dragon but was surprised as James literally went through the beam with his horns and rammed her side cracking her armor and sending her to the ground below in a cloud of dust and crystal. She quickly rolled out the way as James came down like a meteor and striking the ground where she was a few moments ago. The blue dragon leaned left as Nightmare Moon lunged him from behind making her miss the attack. He then threw up a shield blocking multiple blasts from Solar Flare and sending back blue balls of fire.

The solar alicorn tried her best to block with her shield but each impact from the blasts cracked her shield as the final one shattered it causing an explosion to knock her away and skid across the ground. Nightmare Moon charged the dragon to avenge her sister but was instantly smacked into the side of a nearby carriage by James' tail. The blue dragon then flew forward toward Solar Flare who was struggling to stand, her eyes widened as she was James struck her muzzle with his forehead knocking her on her back.

Before Solar Flare could move, James channeled the magic from the earth elemental as crystals protruded from the ground locking her four limbs in place. Solar Flare tried to fire a blast at the approaching dragon but she only got a blast of magical water to the face knocking her head to the ground. James stood over her as she struggled in her bonds and was coughing up any water that got down her throat. He put a talon on her chest as he encased the alicorn in the same blue light as Discord making her scream out before falling unconscious.

James watched as the armor on Solar Flare slowly burned away and her coat returning back its normal white. Her mane and tail no longer a flame but her regular rainbow texture. Celestia was now laying before him passed out and completely exhausted. James removed the crystals from her limbs and turned around to see a shocked Nightmare Moon as the two were in another stare down.

Meanwhile the group could only stare in shock at what was happening. James and Malefor were getting tossed around like rag dolls but now, with the two of them now one, they were handling all three of them without even breaking a sweat. After seeing James revert Celestia back to her normal state they could only assume that he did the same with Discord, which meant that Nightmare Moon was the only one left.

"I can't believe what I'm seeing." said Applejack.

"Yeah! Go James!" cheered the fillies, Applebloom, Scootaloo, Sweetie, and Dinky.

"We could actually win this." said Fluttershy as she used her hoof to pet Bolt beside her.

"Indeed," agreed Rarity, "I need a nice bath after all of this is over."

The group laughed at her antics as Nightmare glares at the blue dragon in front of her. How could this be happening? How could the Princess of the Night be losing to some dragon! Damn them! Damn them all to hell! James could only smirk at how desperate Nightmare Moon was getting and walked forward. The dark alicorn began to sweat as she stepped back with her horn glowing. Nightmare then shut her eyes in as a sudden pain shot through her head making James to even stop his advances. He was surprised to see Nightmare Moon's eyes change back to Luna's and call out to him in a desperate tone.

"James!," 'Luna' called out, "I don't know how much time I'll have control but you have to finish us quickly!"

"Why? Whats wrong?" asked James curiously.

"Nightmare Moon plans to overload her magic and take out you and the rest of the-"

Before 'Luna' could finish her eyes turned back to Nightmare's reptilian irises and cursed under her breath for losing control like that. It seems that she had taken more damage then she thought which allowed Luna to take control for a short time. But she had managed to reveal her fail safe plan to the dragon which meant that she had to act fast. The group however were stunned or confused at what just happened.

"It seems that Princess Luna is still fighting for control." said Flashwing.

"Hey what did she mean that she was going to overload her magic?" asked Rainbow kind of hoping that it wasn't what she thought.

"Exactly what it meant, unicorns and alicorns can channel the magic in themselves and hold it their creating a massive unstable amount of energy. If the energy isn't released then the magic stored in them will try to release itself until.....well...."

"BOOM!" yelled Pinkie out of nowhere.

James grit his teeth in anger, Nightmare Moon had gone to far. At least Luna was doing things for the best of the ones she cared for but Nightmare Moon was doing anything in her power to kill him. Nightmare smirked as he entire body started to glow a dark blue with a hint of black. James could already tell that she already started to gather enough energy for her makeshift bomb which meant he had to act fast. Channeling the air elemental magic inside him he flapped his wings creating hurricane like winds and blowing Nightmare Moon in the sky.

He then shot off the ground like a bullet toward the dark alicorn as Nightmare regained her composure in the sky and shot down toward him her body glowing brighter. The dark alicorn screamed in anger and collided with James, who was caught off guard by her sudden power increase and was sent to the ground. He easily picked himself up with minor bruises and stared at Nightmare laughing like a maniac. James could only see her glowing brighter to the point of no return.

"She's has to much power stored in her for me to stop her now." he said to himself, he turned back to the group watching him and smiled, "Hey!"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dFbZ1jvq_U&list=PL7A307337BAD37B58&index=32

The group of ponies and dragons were confused on to why he was calling out to them when Nightmare Moon was preparing to burst at any moment. He focused on each and every one of them, even Shining Armor and Cadence, until his gaze came to the four mares and dragoness in front of the group. He gave the five a sad smile and closed his eyes as a lone tear slid down his cheek.

"I guess I won't be able to choose." he called out making the group's eyes widened.

"N-No! James you can't do that!" cried out Twilight, "You'll...."

"There's no other way...."

"There's always a way!" added Derpy

"Yeah, we'll figure something out together!" suddenly said Trixie.

Fluttershy and Sam stayed silent and could only look at the blue dragon with pleading eyes. Both of them with tears threatening to flow down their cheeks. James couldn't stand the look on their faces and he even almost reconsidered on going through with his plan but they would all die if he didn't go through with it.

"It's too late, Nightmare Moon could explode any second! I have to do this!" he turned back around his back facing them, "Hey Trixie!"

Trixie ears perked up, "Y-yes?" she answered with a cracked voice.

"Malefor asked if you could finish what he started."

Trixie then felt her heart skip a beat and didn't even notice the tears now flowing down her cheeks, "I-I will!"

The blue dragon smiled and walked toward the overloading alicorn until he felt a tug on his tail. He looked back and his heart fell to his stomach as he saw a familiar white filly holding on to his tail with a pleading look in her eyes. She maybe you but she wasn't dumb. Sweetie knew what he was going to do and the look that she was giving him was making things harder.

"Sweetie..." was all James could say as Sweetie hugged the blue dragon.

"Don't go!" she cried burying her face in her chest. James instantly hugged her back and pet her mane.

"I'm sorry Sweetie, but it has to be this way."

"Why! It's not fair! Why can't we just go back to Ponyville! And everything can be normal again!"

"I wish there was another way..." James looked behind him and noticed Nightmare Moon beginning to glow more brightly as dark blue lightning surrounded her and her eyes glowing a pure white, "....and I don't have much time....Rarity!"

Rarity nodded and teleported over to him and grabbing her little sister ignoring her protests. She gave him a light peck on the cheek as James smiled as she teleported back to the group with Sweetie Belle. James put on a serious look and walked to the alicorn.

"It was nice of you to wait for me." he said to her.

"I'm just letting you say your goodbyes before blow you to bits! It sure bought me the time to gather this much magical power......You also didn't have to lie to them, you had plenty of time to stop me, so why not?"

"It's clear that the only reason why this is happening is because of me and Malefor. So we decided to end things right here and right now."

Before Nightmare could react James spread his wings and flew toward her wrapping his front arms around her barrel and carrying her high in the sky as fast as he can. The group down below could only watch as they ascended higher and higher, until both of them pushed through the pink shield that surrounded the Empire and they were both on the outside in the snowy environment.

"It seems you lost dragon." said Nightmare Moon.

"You could say that," James replied, "but as long as they are safe down there.....I call this a win in my book."

James then noticed Nightmare Moon smirk before her form reverted back into Princess Luna. The lunar princess had a sad smile on her face as the two ascended higher in the air, "Drag....I mean James....I'm sorry for everything....."

"Don't be," he replied back, "You were only doing what you thought was best.....and got possessed by an evil spirit because of it."

Luna managed to let out a light giggle despite the situation, "You know....I can see why Mrs. Sparkle likes you so much and I must say....I'm kind of jealous."

The blue dragon couldn't help but blush, "Come on....I don't think I can handle another mare having feelings for me."

The two chuckled until they both noticed Luna glowing brighter and they both nodded knowing that their time was up. They both looked at each other, turquoise eyes gazing at red ones. The two both hugged each other until they were both encased in a bright light.

Frozen North; Somewhere in the Sky

The two rulers of Thedas were flying as fast as they could to the Crystal Empire. They could literally see it in their sights, until they noticed a bright blue explosion go off above the empire.

"Brother?" asked Shenron with a worried expression

"I know, let's hurry." replied Porunga as they flew towards the Crystal Empire, "Lets just hope we aren't to late."

Act 2: A New Aftermath

View Online

Unknown

I look at my surroundings to find that I'm....I'm.....where the hell am I? All I could see was nothing but white, its kind of like that Spongebob episode when Squidward was in that time machine. I take a step as I take a step only to trip on my feet and fall on my face....wait feet!? I quickly look at my self to find that I was a human again! More specifically I was wearing the same thing when I went to Comic-Con, when I met the-

"I'm sure you have some questions." said a sudden disembodied voice making me on edge as I knew the voice all to well, "I assume you know who I am?"

"I have a few yes!" I exclaim standing to my feet, "You're that Merchant asshole that sent me to Equestria!"

"I know you must confused on why you have your own body again, and why I sent you to Equestria."

"Those aren't all the questions but they are the main ones."

"Well for the first one, I needed you to be in a familiar state when I talked to you again. So I predicted that your human body would be a better match. As to why I brought you to Equestria....there is something wrong with this world...."

To be honest I was still kind of pissed at this Merchant bringing me in the first place, but thanks to him I was able to meet the girls, Bolt, the crusaders, Spike, Sam and the other dragons.....That's when it all came back to me. The Crystal Empire. Me and Malefor fusing. Our fight with Nightmare Moon, Discord,and Solar Flare. Me and Luna sacrificing ourselves. Were the others ok!? Did me and Luna's death do them any good?

"Wait before we continue, are the others ok!?" I ask suddenly cutting him off.

"They are in no harm." said the Merchant's voice making me sigh in relief, "As I was saying this Equestria is part of many Equestrias that I created, but I sensed....something wrong with this one and I needed someone to investigate it."

"So you sent me? Why?"

"Believe it or not James, I know all about you and have been watching you for some time while in the human world or Earth as you like to call your planet. It was then only a matter of meeting you at that Comic Convention where I made my move."

"You made multiple Equestrias? In that case are there other people like me in those Equestrias?"

Even though I couldn't see the Merchant I could tell they were nodding, "Precisely, each person I sent to Equestria has a specific purpose there. Whether it be good, bad, or even both they are sent to a specific Equestria of my choosing for the greater good. "

"But you said that his Equestria had something different then the others."

"Exactly, it turns out someone else was sent to this Equestria without my doing and I think you know her all to well."

"You're talking about Sam, are you? That's why you wanted me, because you knew I was close to her."

"Indeed, I was hoping you could arrive in Equestria and get some answers out of her, but as suspected there was complications standing in your way."

"So that person who visited Sam in her hospital room wasn't you?"

"I'm afraid not, but who ever sent her to this Equestria is here as well. James I sensed this person's intentions and they are not righteous.He or she has plans for Sam and I believed you are the only one that could save her."

"What about Malefor? Where does he play in all of this?"

"The red crystal that yo got from me containing Malefor is what you could say a piece of yourself. I knew you were going to have trouble doing this alone so Malefor or your darker half was born to aid you. However you do know the draw back of any of you dying correct?"

I nod.

"Good, I'm afraid that's all I can say for right now."

It was then that I noticed everything cracking around me like glass. I look around in panic trying to look away for an escape but couldn't, "Wait! I never got your real name!" I ask. The Merchant could try to disguise as much as they wanted but I knew the voice was female. There was a pause before she started talking again.

"You and Malefor's job in Equestria is not finished yet James. You two still have a job to do so I can't allow you to die yet. Also....my name....is Faust."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=POoeN5v2U6Y

Crystal Palace; Medical Center

I opened my eyes slowly only to shut them again from the intense glare from the sun. My head was throbbing like some had just hit with a mallet. Trying again to open my eyes I had more success everything was still a blur but I could manage it for now. I felt my surroundings and noticed that I was laying....wait have we been here before? Oh yeah this what I felt when I first came into Equestria. I manage to grip what I was laying and noticed it was a bed of some sort. I look down at myself and noticed that I was once again Spyro, but I noticed that I reverted back to the purple scales which meant that me and Malefor were split again. I groaned in pain as I then noticed the multiple bandages wrapped around me.

"I-I'm alive...." I say in a strained voice as I look at my surroundings.

Judging from the crystal walls, I was still in the Crystal Empire. Probably in some kind of room in the palace. I notice the other bed to the right of me and I could see the sleeping form of Malefor wrapped in the same bandages as myself. I noticed a blue mare resting her head on the bed next him, Trixie I think her name was. I chuckled and tried to sit up only to see that the bandages weren't the only thing restricting my movements. Sleeping on my chest were two bundles of white and grey, which I quickly concluded were Sweetie and Dinky. Four familiar girls were resting on my bed as well like Trixie. Fluttershy and Dinky on my right while Twilight and Sam were on my left. I could even make out Bolt laying down at the foot of the bed.

It seemed my shuffling around woke the two fillies on top of me as their cute orbs slowly opened. Both of their eyes widened as i could only chuckle nervously and flash them a small grin. I could see the tears beginning to surface in their eyes as they called out my name and embrace my neck. The two fillies' outburst managed to wake everyone else in the room including Malefor.

"James!" screamed the other girls besides Trixie as they joined in the group hug. To be honest due to the injuries I had this was not helping heal....like at all. I flinched but I manged to suck it up for them. I look over to Trixie hugging Malefor as me and my darker self make eye contact. I send him a wink as I only got a roll of his eyes in response.

"U-Uhh, girls" I manage to squeeze out,"I know this is touching.....b-but I'm kind of loosing a-air."

The girls let go with sheepish smiles on their faces.

"S-Sorry." they all say.

"That's alright," I smile, "So...what happened? I thought me and Malefor blew ourselves up with Luna?"

"I would like to hear an explanation as well." grunted Malefor from the other bed.

Sam was the first one to speak, "Well, its true that you and Malefor.....sacrificed yourselves but if it wasn't for Shenron and Porunga you two would've been...."

"Wait," cut off Malefor, "Shenron and Porunga? As in...you know."

She nods, "Yeah, but it turns out that they are like the Celestia and Luna for dragons."

"Huh....That's interesting."

"Th-they were pretty scary..." squeaked Fluttershy as a rubbed her head in comfort making her smile.

"I thought they were cool!" added Sweetie Belle.

"Yeah!" added Dinky.

"However the two dragons did want Trixie and the others to inform them when you two woke up." stated Trixie and Malefor put on a weird expression.

"And why the hell do they want to see us?" my darker self says as he was bopped on the head by the blue show-mare.

"What do you think you big lug! It is obvious that these two dragons want to congratulate you on your bravery."

The rest of us laugh at the Trixie and Malefor as the two both started to argue. It was clearly obvious that the two had an attraction one another but both just didn't want to admit it first. It was literally a relationship between two tsunderes which meant that one of us, probably Rarity, will have to play match maker. I turn back to the girls as they were all staring at me, which was starting to make me a little uncomfortable.

"Uhhh...girls?" I say snapping them out of their trance.

"U-Um, Dinky and Sweetie. Can you two wait outside for a second?" asked Derpy as the two fillies nodded and jumped off the bed and out of the room. Besides Trixie and Malefor, leaving me and the four other girls in the room. I could tell by their expressions what they wanted to talk about. I did somehow to survive which mean that I owed them a straight answer,

"James," started Sam, "I think it's time to...you know."

I could only nod at my long time friend. To be honest out of all the decisions I had to make while this whole situation took place this would probably have to be the hardest. First was Sam, my best friend from Earth and former girlfriend. She was outgoing, stubborn, and is determined to achieve what she wants. I was devastated when I witnessed her supposed death back on Earth and was relieved to find out that she was alive as the dragon Cynder. To be honest if it wasn't for his feelings for the other three then he would've went back to her in a heartbeat.

Then there was Fluttershy. The yellow pegasus that nursed me back to health when I first arrived here in Equestria after a run in with some timberwolves. She was the one that stood up for me and protected me when the rest of her friends thought I was their to hurt her and the one that faced her fear of dragons for my own well being. She was always worried about me and gave me a place to stay when I needed it. Her company made my chest feel warm and fuzzy. Her soft voice was soothing and comforting. Just being around her kind nature toward living things it was surprise that I started to develop feelings for her.

Next was the grey mail mare herself, Derpy. Her bubbly attitude always brought a smile to my face every time she would come around. Not to mention that dinky was always a bundle of joy to play with as well. She kind of reminded me of myself when I was a kid. Always having a positive attitude, a little clumsy, and having a huge love for different kinds of muffins. During my stay in my house, even though I lived there for a week before all this started, she would always stop by my place in the morning and drop off a basket of muffins and we would talk with out even knowing the time passing by. Sometimes Dinky would be with her and would pester me to play with her. It was only a matter of time before my feelings became strong for the grey mail mare.

Lastly was the princess of friendship herself, Twilight Sparkle. To be honest I was kind of afraid of the purple alicorn when we first met, probably due to the fact that she was literally shooting lasers at me when we first met. However when she had interviewed me I could tell that she was actually interested in who I was and where I came from. It even progressed to us talking about our past experiences and like Derpy we would lose track of time when we talked. We both were anti-social people before we met our friends and would sometimes have a dorky personality. Even though she was way smarter than me she never really bragged about it. Not to mention it was cute every time she would catch her self from rambling on one subject and before I knew it she had made her way into my heart.

And now these four mares wanted me to choose one of them-

"We want to share you."

What.

"What?" was all I can say at their straightforward answer. So you're telling me I went through all that thinking for nothing! No there had to be more than that, "I-I'm sorry but you girls are going to have to be more specific."

"Well, while you and Malefor were unconscious we decided to form a herd." said Fluttershy.

Derpy nodded, "We all knew that you had feelings for all of us."

"And it wouldn't be fair to force you to choose when you can't decide." added Twilight.

"I wasn't too big on the idea at first," said Sam with a noticeable blush on her cheeks, "But I thought that I could give it a go."

They all looked at me with hopeful expressions as their four pairs of beautiful eyes literally tore through my heart. I couldn't even break eye contact form those adorable faces. I didn't expect them to make a compromise this quickly, I could hear Trixie and Malefor chuckling at my torture as I silently flipped them off. I sigh and give them a warm smile.

"I....would love to be in herd with you four." I answer as before I knew it I was once again embraced by the four. My eyes widened when Sa m was the first one to place her lips on top of mine. She pulled away and was replaced by Twilight, then Derpy and finally Fluttershy. I felt my cheeks heating up as they all giggled at my reaction.

"So," suddenly said Malefor gaining or attention, "Should we go see these dragons or are we going to be sappy all day."

Crystal Palace; Throne Room

The doors to the throne room opened revealing James, being supported by Sam and Fluttershy while Twilight and Derpy followed behind, as Malefor was being supported by Trixie. The group walked in and noticed the two familiar dragon rulers of Thedas but they seemed....smaller. Shenron and Porunga was talking to an injured Celestia, Luna, and Discord, as Cadance, Shining, Rarity, Applejack, the four fillies, Spike, Bolt, Rainbow, Pinkie, Bash, Flashwing, and Drobot. Our presence seemed to stop all activity as we made our way.

"Ah, it seemed that our two guest of honor have finally awakened." said Porunga with a surprisingly normal voice due to his size change.

"I am pleased to know that you are all safe and recovering well." added Celestia, "And....I deeply apologize for our actions against you James."

"You don't have to apologize," started the purple dragon, "You weren't in control of your actions."

"Even though that is true, I should've noticed when the situation got out of hand and I almost lost my sister and a dear friend in the process."

"I would have to agree with James sister," stepped in Luna, "It was eye who took things to far with thee dragons and as a result I managed to let Nightmare Moon influence me once again."

"I would also like to...how do you say? Apologize?" started Discord, "But to be fair it was mostly Lulu's and Celly's fault."

James put on a weird look as the two princess glared at the spirit of chaos, "Didn't you almost cause me and Malefor to be executed?"

Malefor chuckled and whispered to Trixie, "Celly and Lulu? I'm going to have to remember that."

"Oh, hush and pay attention." whispered back Trixie as the darker version of James only rolled his eyes in response.

"We all take responsibility for our actions," stated Luna, "including I, and I will understand your grudges against me."

James could only look at the lunar princess with pity. Too be honest he was still pretty salty about her trying to kill him and Malefor and turning a whole entire country against them. However it was because of a bad experience that scarred her and she didn't want her subjects to go through the same thing she did. Malefor would have not even cared when he first arrived, but to be honest after meeting Trixie,making amends for his mistakes, and becoming king of the changelings he could understand why rulers would make these kinds of decisions to protect their subjects.

"You don't have to worry, Princess Luna," said James, "We completely understand."

"You were just trying to protect the ones you cared for. No one is faulting you for that." added Malefor.

"Speaking of faulting." stepped in Porunga, "Malefor."

"Oh shit..."

"When you first arrived here you cause an amount of trouble. you attacked three of the princesses with out reason and some innocent ponies lost their lives."

Malefor could only nod and keep his head high. James and Trixie could tell by the look in his eyes that he actually felt guilt or at the very least a little bit of shame."I know what i did," he said, "And I do not deny it. When I first came here the only thing I cared for was myself, but after I met the changelings....it changed my way of thinking."

"Mrs. Lulamoon had told us of you meeting the changelings and how you were their only hope of surviving." stated Cadance.

Malefor looked at Trixie who had a light blush and back to the literal deities in front of him, "Yes, after the death of Queen Chrysalis she appointed me the one to protect her hive." he then looked toward Cadance and Shining Armor, "I was then tasked to travel here to the Crystal Empire to talk to you two about making a compromise on having the changelings live here close to the artifact known as the Crystal Heart so they can survive. I also know that you might have a grudge against these changelings but you have to understand that they were only trying to survive and they are running out of options."

Shining and Cadance looked at each other before nodding, "Malefor you have committed a lot of crimes," started Shining, "but me and my wife can tell you are trying your best to make amends. We still have our concerns about the changeling race but we still can't turn a blind eye in there time of need."

"We will make arrangements for them to have a place for them to stay here in the Crystal Empire,"added Cadance with a smile, "They will have their own district in the city and will be able to converse and interact with the rest of the Crystal ponies."

Trixie caught the dark dragon as she squealed in joy and wrapped her forearms around his neck, "We did it!"

Malefor could only blush and turn his head away as Trixie puffed her cheeks, "Oh, come on you could be a little happy."

"I am," said Malefor, "But they aren't letting them in for free am I right?"

Cadance solemnly nodded, "In return of them staying in the empire, the changelings will have to be watched at all times and you would have to serve out your sentence before you would have the right to rule them over."

"And what is this sentence I have to serve?"

"The rest of us talked about it," stated Shining Armor, "And we decided to have you stay in Ponyville and be taught about friendship by James. And judging by your relationship with Mrs. Lulamoon it shouldn't be a problem."

"As for you James," stated Celestia, "Your actions were clearly out of self defense and even though some guards were hurt. None of the guards reported you using any lethal attacks. However innocent ponies were put in danger."

The purple dragon nodded nodded, "I understand."

"So as a result, your punishment will be the same as Malefor's."

"Now on to the 'other' part of the discussion." stated Shenron.

Celestia nodded, "Would the rest of you leave the dragons and us. There is something we must speak in private."

They all nodded and headed toward the door. Fluttershy stayed behind and looked at James with a pleading look making him smile. "I'll be fine Flutters. My wounds aren't bothering me that much." he said making her sigh.

"Alright," she says softly, "But I'll still be checking on you."

James smiled and nodded as the yellow mar gave him a peck on this cheek and turning to Sam, "Make sure he doesn't work himself to much." she said to the purple dragoness.

"Don't worry I'll keep my eye on him." winked the dragoness as Fluttershy left the room leaving only the dragons, three alicorns, Shining, and the Spirit of Chaos. James and Malefor instantly realized the tone shift in the room and their expressions became stern.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IYZq7uBQPVk

"What's going on?" asked James.

Shenron started, "As you all know, Luna here was possessed by the entity called Nightmare Moon, and managed to also take control of Celestia and Discord."

"Don't remind me." interrupted Discord with an annoyed expression.

"But Nightmare moon is gone isn't she?" questioned Malefor.

"Yes this is true," answered Luna, "But my counter part was not acting alone. Someone was pulling her strings ans she was me."

"Do you have any idea who did this?" asked Sam.

"We do," started Porunga, "It is some one I thought me and my brother defeated long ago."

Bash's, Flashwing's, Drobot's, and Sam's eyes widened, "You don't mean him! Do you?" asked Bash.

"That's highly unlikely, he is supposed to be imprisoned with no way to use his magic." added Drobot.

Flashwing shook her head, "Unless the seals are starting to fail."

"Wait, wait, wait.....what is going on?" asked Malefor, "Who the hell are you guys talking about?"

"Long ago," started Porunga, "Me, my brother and Celestia and Luna banded together to stop a great evil form plaguing this world. It took almost all of our magic power to seal him away and it cost the lives of many. Even almost turning everything into nothing but a apocalyptic wasteland of fire and death."

James listened carefully. This guy could be the danger that the Faust lady was telling him about. Why she sent him and Malefor here in the first place. Which meant that who ever this was had brought Sam here when she.....

"So you're afraid he might break out again?" concluded Malefor.

"Yes," said Celestia, "The seals won't last forever. If he is able to make contact with Nightmare Moon form his prison tan that means only two things. He is either getting stronger or the seals are failing over time."

"So how many seal are there?" stepped in Cadance.

"There are six seals that are in protected by each race in Equestria," stepped in Discord, "They all reside with the ponies, dragons, minotaurs, griffins, yaks, and the zebras. Each ruler swearing to keep these seals a secret from those who would to free that evil entity again. So from that time this only degraded to be only in legend and only a fairy tale."

"Where were you in all of this Discord?" asked Shining.

"I was neutral at the time. I know its surprising that there are opponents that even I won't tangle with."

"The strange thing however," stated Luna, "Is that seals looked perfectly fine throughout this whole situation."

"None of them, seemed off?" asked Flashwing.

"No." answered Shenron,"Nothing had changed with the seals ever since they were crafted."

"So who is this asshole anyway?" asked Malefor.

"His name," started Porunga, "Is Acnologia, and he is not to be underestimated."

The group was silent as Sam, Malefor, and James could only widened their eyes. The others didn't know it but the three knew exactly who Acnologia was. One of the main villains from another they used to watch on Earth that was shown to be almost literally unstoppable. It was unfortunate that they never finished the show to find out how he was defeated....if he was ever defeated in the first pace. There was a long silent pause between the group until James finally broke the silence.

"So what now?" he asked.

"It would take a lot of magic power to free Acnologia. Something he doesn't have, so it would take some time until he breaks free." said Celestia.

"As of right now, the only ones who knows the truth of Acnologia's existence are everyone in this room and the rulers of the other four races." added Luna.

"There is nothing to worry as of yet, but it does mean that we should keep a closer eye on the seals." said Shenron, "In the meantime James and Malefor will stay in Equestria until further notice. You two will not mention what we talked about to any one unless they are us."

James and Malefor nodded, "Wait what about Sam and the others?" asked James looking at the other dragons int he room.

"Like we said," answered Porunga, "Acnologia didn't act alone. He had orc and goblin followers and we need Sam and the others to investigate. The orcs and goblins are usually secluded from the rest of us since we sealed Acnologia but there are ruins of their fortresses around the world."

"But..."

Sam put a claw on his shoulder, "I'll be fine, " she said with a smile, "This is what I did before you came here."

"Yeah, no need to worry about us," said Bash, "We aren't special forces for no reason."

James nodded.

"I believe we are done," said Porunga, "Me and Shenron will return to Thedas awaiting for your return."

Sam and the other dragons nodded and bowed respectively.

"James and Malefor," said Luna gaining the two dragons attention, "Even though you are in Equestria, Acnologia may still have followers everywhere. So be careful."

The two dragons nodded, "Don't worry if Acnologia ever shows his face," started Malefor

"We'll make sure beat his ass." finished James with a determined expression.

Act 2 Finale: A New Home

View Online

Two Weeks Later

I wake up from my comfort of slumber as I let out a large yawn. I rub my eyes as I try to sit up only for an unknown force to pull me back down on the bed. I look over to see Fluttershy wrapping her forehooves around my waist with a big smile on her face. Oh yeah, I totally forgot she stayed over from yesterday, she seemed to still be a bit exhausted from yesterday's activities as well. Bolt was curled up at the foot of the bed sleeping as well, which bought a smile to my face, as much as I wanted to stay in the bed with them I had to get up. I managed to stealthily wiggle from Fluttershy's grasp and make my way to the bathroom an do my normal morning routine.

As I make my way out of the room and closing the door, I heard two familiar voices down stairs in the kitchen. I slowly go down the stairs and peek around the corner to see Malefor and Trixie arguing about what they should cook for breakfast. After the whole Crystal Empire incident and we returned to Ponyville I allowed Trixie and Malefor to stay with me. Even though they would always bicker like a married couple, it was nice to have the company. Sam and the other dragons has returned to Thedas to continue their usual missions form Ignitus. Derpy would occasionally stop by and deliver letters from Sam to my house, with the daily dose of a muffin of course. Twilight had went back to her princess duties with Spike, the Crusaders and Dinky still causing a bit of trouble here and there, Pinkie throwing parties, Applejack on the farm, Rarity in her boutique, Fluttershy taking care of animals, and Rainbow....sleeping? I guess? I never really asked what she did for a living.

"I told you we are having sausage and bacon for breakfast!" yelled Malefor.

"And Trixie has told we ponies don't eat meat! We are having simple toast and cereal!" shouted back Trixie.

"Well you are going to have to suck it up. I'm cooking the sausage and bacon!"

"Do you even realize that Fluttershy is here! Trixie assumes she will freak out when she gets down here!"

"Then we eat without her, is that so hard?"

I chuckle gaining their attention as both of their heads turn toward me in the doorway. Trixie seemed to have an embarrassed expression as Malefor only turns his head. "Trixie is sorry James. We didn't wake you from your sleep did we?" she apologized.

"Nah," I answer with a smile,"You're good. I slept like a rock. So whats the problem now?"

Trixie expression immediately turns into a frown, "This lug thinks it's a good idea to have 'meat' of all things while there are ponies present!"

"And I don't care what she says!" added Malefor with his back turned, "We are having sausage and bacon!"

I chuckle and head to the fridge without them knowing and make myself and Fluttershy a bowl of cereal and took them back upstairs with the sounds of their argument growing more and more faint. I walk back through the door to see Bolt run past me and head some where in the house, I look back in the room and see Fluttershy awake and sitting up in the bed. I chuckled at her frazzled mane and droopy eyes as her gaze meets mine. She gives a small smile as I climb back in the bed with her and peck her cheek.

"Morning, Flutters" I say as I give her cereal.

"Morning James," she says back,"Thank you for the cereal. Not to be rude but I was expecting something more."

"Not with Malefor and Trixie arguing down stairs."

Fluttershy giggles and uses one of her wings to use the spoon to scoop the cereal and place it between her lips. I didn't know they could use their wings like that. Can I do that? Questions for later. "Those two have really been a handful for you haven't they?" she asked with a little worry

"Its alright," I say taking a scoop of my own cereal, "It's nice having the company."

"James..." Fluttershy says softly.

"Yeah? Are you ok?"

""Are you?"

I knew exactly what she was talking about.....

One Week Earlier; Twilight's Castle

I knock on the giant doors to Twilight's tree...crystal...castle...place, waiting for an answer. I was wondering why she called me over so suddenly? To be honest it was a week since the battle in the Crystal Empire and me and Malefor learning the mastermind of our and Sam's arrival here in Equestria. "Acnologia...." I say quietly to myself, this couldn't be right. How could someone like him be in Equestria? None of this made any sense and he needed more-

"Acnologia?" said the voice of Spike form the door snapping me from my thoughts. Shit! I didn't even notice the little dude was there!

"Oh! Uh...Hi Spike is Twilight home?" I say trying to avoid the subject.

He shrugs and nods, "Yeah she, Fluttershy, and Derpy are waiting for you inside."

I nod and thank the small dragon and make my way inside. Fluttershy and Derpy were here too? Now I was really thinking on why I was called. I make my way over to where the...crystal map? I think that's what they called it, but anyways I go in the room with the that inside and see Twilight, Fluttershy and Derpy all with smiles on their faces...but they didn't look like happy smiles. I didn't like this?

"Twilight? Fluttershy? Derpy?" I all out while walking toward them, "What's going on?"

"James," said Twilight in a strained voice, "You might want to sit down."

"Huh, what's wrong you three?" I ask,

"James..." started Derpy, "We all love you and we don't want to see you hurt in anyway."

"What? Where is this coming from?"

"James, we can't do this." said Twilight as my heart fell to the pit of my stomach. I knew exactly what this was and why Twilight called me here, but I didn't want to believe it.

"We can't be in a herd anymore James," cracked Derpy.

"Wh-what...why!?" I ask desperately, none of this was making any sense!

"Me, Fluttershy, and Derpy were talking....and we noticed that we won't be able to share you."

"But...everything has just been fine this last week!"

"That's because we've been hiding our true feelings. We didn't want to upset you, so me and the girls decided that only way we could continue to make you happy is to not be in a herd anymore," Twilight levitates a letter over to me, "Here this is from Sam.....she also agreed to this."

I take the letter and read it trying to find any flaw. This had to be some sick joke by Discord or something! But no one could forge Sam's hand writing, it says right here in black and white that she had agreed to not being in a herd. I sigh and drop the letter.

"Wait..." I say, "What about you Flutters? You've been quiet this whole time."

"That's another thing we wanted you to tell you," started Derpy, "Since we're not in a herd anymore.....it doesn't mean one of us can't still be with you."

"So we put it to a vote," added Twilight, "And we decided that Fluttershy was the best choice. She was the one who always stuck by your side when you arrived here. She never gave up trying to look for you and she was the one that stood up for you when you were going to be executed. So...we, including Sam, decided it would be Fluttershy."

I look over to Fluttershy to see her blushing but I could tell that she was feeling guilty that she was picked and not any of the others. I stand up and walk up to the yellow mare and pull her into an embrace, she only hugged me back accepting my nonverbal answer as Twilight and Derpy joined n the hug as well.

Present

"I'm fine," I say, "It's not like we aren't still friends."

She smiles and leans on to my shoulder placing her bowl of cereal on the nightstand next to her, "Good, I just wanted to make sure that your ok with this."

I sadly chuckle, "I am a little depressed, but....I'll get over it. Especially with you with me."

Fluttershy cutely blushes and places her lips upon mine as I kiss back. The kiss becomes more passionate as she sighs and pulls away her eyes still close. I pull the pegasus close and we cuddle in the bed bringing a smile to my face. You know what Acnologia can show his face, because I know when he does me and Malefor will be their to knock him back to where ever he came.

And we won't lose.

Unknown

The doors leading to a dark room, barely being illuminated by torches, swung open. In walked in a hulking green humanoid with green pointy ears he walked to the center of the room and took a knee to a another green figure clad in dark robes and siting in a meditation position.

"Warlock Volk," the hulking orc said in a gruff voice, "Our spies have found the locations of the two dragons. Shall we gather the forces?"

The robed figure shook his head, "Not not War-chief Hrathgar, I have just made contact with our Lord Acnologia and he wants those two alive when he returns. In the mean time focus your attention in locating those seals."

"Yes sir," said Hrathgar standing to his feet and heading out the room, "I'll leave right away."

Once Hrathgar left the room Volk looked up in front of him, "Soon Lord Acnologia, you will have your revenge upon the inhabitants of this world and be our true god!"

In front of him was a painting of a giant black and blue dragon with pure whites eyes with nothing but death and destruction behind him.

END OF ACT 2

Author's Notes:

And there is the rest of Act 2!

For those who have questions on what happened to the herd was because of the backlash I got and the literal hate that came in my inbox. So I decided to just have James be with Fluttershy since those two had the most development throughout the story.

Okay! One last thing! Would you guys like a side story about Sam before James arrived to Equestria? The idea popped in my head the other day and I thought it would be interesting. It won't be long like James' story but more like a mini-series focusing on Sam and her adventures in Thedas and the rest of the elementals.

But as always comment on what you think below!

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

Next time A God Emerges:

A New Flame

by The Zebra Hybrid

Act 1: A New World

Act 1: A New Friend

Act 1: A New Game of Hide and Seek

Act 1: A New Discussion

Act 1: A New Meeting With The Town and Royalty

Act 1: A Bunch of New Friends

Act 1: A New Day With Twilight

Act 1: A New Day With Fluttershy

Act 1: A New Day With Pinkie

Act 1: A New Day With Rainbow

Act 1: A New Day With Applejack and Rarity

Act 1: A New Escape

Act 1: A New Battle

Act 1: A New Grief

Act 1: A New Awakening

Act 1: A New Meeting with More Royalty

Act 1: A New Return

Act 1: A New Lesson

Act 1: A New King

Act 1: A New Reunion Part 1

Act 1: A New Reunion Part 2

Act 1 Finale: A New Reunion Final Part

Act 2: A New Ally

Act 2: A New Destination

Act 2: A New Empire

Act 2: A New Interrogation

Act 2: A New Obstacle

Act 2: A New Set of Prisoners

Act 2: A New Discussion With Prisoners

Act 2: A New Execution

Act 2: A New Rescue

Act 2: A New Battle

Act 2: A New Struggle

Act 2: A New Hope

Act 2: A New Comeback

Act 2: A New Aftermath

Act 2 Finale: A New Home