With the Friendship Games under way, Charming Thunder and Danny helps Sunset Shimmer investigate on how her friends pony up randomly.
After the Battle of the Bands, the Human Twilight Sparkle attempted to research the statue at Canterlot High and discovered the portal, but was caught by Sunset Shimmer and successfully escaped. With the Friendship Games on the way, Sunset calls Charming Thunder and Danny to help her find the source of why their friends pony up randomly.
A story between Episodes XI and XII.
Reminder: My Little Pony: Equestria Girls Friendship Games belongs to Hasbro
Charming Thunder was successful on finding Danny who became an Element of Insanity representing nightmares as he became an Element of Harmony representing courage.
With the brothers reunited and with the defeat of Twivine, Charming Thunder along with Danny were sent to the centaur territory to retrieve very important plans that were stolen by pirate forces.
After successfully retrieving the stolen plans, Danny piloted his wife's freighter to escape the clutches of the pirates and hopes not to scratch Rainbow's ship as promised....
The Millennium Phoenix flew as it was being pursued by pirate forces flying in their Porax-38 starfghters as they made their way back to Ponyville. Danny was the co pilot as Charming Thunder piloted the freighter. "They must have wanted these plans really bad," Danny said.
"I know," Charming Thunder said. "Even if these plans ended up in the wrong hooves, it would be catastrophic for the empire. Luckily for us we got it back and I can still outmaneuver them." Charming Thunder piloted the freighter down to the sandy surface as the fighters continue to pursue it. Some of the fighters crashed to the ground as they were tricked by the freighter. "Prepare to make the jump to lightspeed."
"The coordinates are already set, brother. It's now or never."
"Punch it then." Danny pulled the lever to activate the hyperdrive, but it somehow appears that it is not working. "I think we are in trouble."
"The hyperdrive must be damaged before we took off. Now it's going to be impossible to escape."
"See what you can do about it. Otherwise, your wife will have our heads." The pirate fighters continued to fire at the freighter as the pursuit continued. Meanwhile in the ships engineering bay, Danny grabbed a tool box and opened the hatch to the hyperdrive using the force. He then went in as he placed the tool box where he needs it.
"Horizontal boosters? Maybe the Alluvial dampers? Nope. That's not it. This calls for a hydrospanner." Danny flew up and grabbed a hydrospanner from the tool box and went back down to continue his repairs. "I don't know how we're going to get out of this one." Suddenly, a loud thump hits the side of the freighter which caused it to lurch radically and makes the tool box fall over and hit Danny on the head. "OW!! CHARMING!!!" More turbulence rocked the ship as he popped his head out rubbing his head. "That was no laser blast! Something hit us. What's going on up there?"
"Scrapyard," Charming Thunder's voice said on the speaker. "I'm drawing some power to the shields."
"What are you thinking? You're not actually thinking of going through the scrapyard."
"They would be crazy enough to follow us, wouldn't they?" Charming Thunder piloted the freighter to avoid some crashed starships as the pursuit raged on from behind. "I'm sure this would work though."
"Never tell me the odds." The Phoenix turned past a huge pile as the pirates followed them continuing to fire at it. One of the fighters connects with a pile of scrap and exploded. The three fighters flew in hot pursuit until one of them scrapes a pile and spins out of control which then crashed to the ground exploding to pieces.
"Careful with your flying!! I'm just about done with repairing the hyperdrive. Just don't scratch the ship."
"I can't argue with that. That is why I am flying through that old Venator."
"What?"
"Trust me." Charming Thunder piloted the freighter to a crashed Venator-class Star Destroyer and dove down. The two remaining fighters followed the ship as it entered the engine of the crashed ship. The Millennium Phoenix flew the engine as they flew over some obstacles hoping to loose the pirates. It then flew through a narrow opening which caused the pursuing fighters to crash. The freighter exited the crashed ship and flew up in the air.
"Got it!!"
"Strap yourself in!!" Charming Thunder pulled a lever and the freighter made the jump to Ponyville.
---------------------
The Millennium Phoenix landed at the towns docking bay and the ramp lowered as Charming Thunder and Danny walked down leaving the ship. "You never changed since I left," Danny said.
"At least I don't hear you complaining," Charming Thunder said. "Now we should get home. I'm sure my wife would be worried and sick about me."
"Same for mine." Arriving at the castle, Charming Thunder and Danny sees Twilight running over to them and gives Charming Thunder a tight hug.
"Thank goodness you two are here," Twilight said.
"Whoah whoah. Slow down dear. You sound like it is an emergency."
"That's because it is."
"Start from the beginning and slow down." Twilight sighed and calmed down a little.
"It's Rainbow Dash." Danny's eyes widened at the news.
"What has happened?" Danny asked. "Is she alright?"
"She is. We need to get to the hospital right away." Danny already knew what's going on and was one step ahead of them and flew to the Ponyville hospital.
Charming Thunder face hoofed as he said, "Always on the move."
"My friends are there as well. Let's go." Charming Thunder nodded and ran with her to the hospital.
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At the Ponyville hospital, Charming Thunder was with the others as he walked back and forth waiting to go see Rainbow. The medical droid exited the room and turned to them. "It's a boy," the medical droid said. They cheered as Charming Thunder only smiled. "She's awake if you wish to see her." One by one, the group entered Rainbow's room to see the cradled colt in her arms. Danny stood next to her to get a closer look of his child. He was a blue colt with a dark blue mane with green eyes.
"I am proud, my love," Danny said nuzzling Rainbow Dash.
"We still need a name for him."
"I actually thought of one while you were away," Rainbow said. "I was thinking Sonic should be his name."
"Sonic. That's a great name."
"Congrats, Rainbow," Charming Thunder said as he stepped up next to his brother.
"Thank you. Thank you all for coming to see our first child." Rainbow Dash then looked at Sonic. "Sonic, meet your father and uncle Charming Thunder." Charming Thunder smiled and wrapped a hoof around Danny's shoulder.
Charming Thunder sat on his throne facing the window as he had his eyes closed meditating. He then felt something strange like its a disturbance, but it's not from Equestria. Danny entered the throne room to see Charming Thunder as he meditated. He then opened his eyes as Danny approached to stand next to him. "What is it, brother?"
"There is a great disturbance in the human world. There may be a new enemy. Someone has interfered with the portal."
"It is not from here this time. I fear for Sunset's danger."
"As do I, Charming. Perhaps we should check the book to see if there are any messages from her."
"What of Twilight?"
"She has to stay here this time. And don't worry about Rainbow. She will be fine with taking care of Sonic." Charming Thunder only responded with a nod and walked with Danny to the library where the book they are looking for is. When they arrive at the library, Charming Thunder levitated the book to him and looked through the book for anything important from Sunset. Some of these were recent lessons to Twilight. When he flipped to the next page he found something that caught his interest. "What is it?"
"Look at this." Charming Thunder showed Danny the note that is written in the book.
Dear King Charming Thunder,
With the Friendship Games coming up, there has been a discovery about Equestrian magic. Somehow my friend Rainbow has ponied up without playing with her instrument. I was hoping if you and your brother could help me with the investigation. There is also something I would like to talk about in person once you arrive. I hope you can make it through the portal since it has been drained.
Your friend, Sunset Shimmer
Charming Thunder was surprised about the news about Equestrian magic being used without their music instrument. "I have never seen that happen before since the time they first gained that power."
"Shall we get going then." Charming Thunder nodded as he placed the book on top of the portal. The portal then opened and they walked through it to enter the human world.
---------------------
Sunset Shimmer stood in front of the statue as she waited for Charming Thunder and Danny to arrive. Suddenly, the portal opened and the two brothers stepped out. Sunset was happy to see them as she rushed over to hug Charming Thunder. "Thank goodness you arrived on time."
"I am surprised about the news," Charming Thunder said. "At least me and Danny made it safely. Bring me up to speed about what you wanted to talk to us about."
"This may sound crazy, but me and the girls encountered Twilight Sparkle of this world and a man wearing a strange mask. She is Crystal Prep student."
"Crystal Prep?" Danny asked.
"Canterlot High's rival for the Friendship Games."
"Is there anyone else I know who is on their side?" Charming Thunder asked.
"No. I'm sorry if it makes you concerned." Danny looked around as he felt a presence in the air.
"I sense something familiar," Danny said. "Why do I feel cold?"
"I feel it to, brother. Where are principles Celestia and Luna, Sunset?"
"They are at the office. Celestia was concerned about Twilight as well as you were."
"I need to see them. Immediately." Sunset Shimmer nodded and lead them inside the high school.
---------------------
At Principle Celestia's office, Charming Thunder and Danny along with Sunset and her friends were having a discussion about what's going on in Canterlot High and their discoveries. "Crystal Prep students are here at the moment and the Friendship Games are being prepped," Celestia explained.
"And we are sure to win this year," Rainbow added.
"And what of Twilight Sparkle?" Luna asked.
"Fear is clouding her mind around the students of Crystal Prep," Danny replied. "There may be a way for me and Charming Thunder to hide ourselves from her. Since we know that there is a Twilight of this world."
"With your permission, Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna, we would have to wear our armor to cover our identity until the time is right," Charming Thunder said. Celestia and Luna thought this plan over and looked at him then nodded. "And never say our real names when she is around."
"I understand," Celestia said. "Do what you must."
"Good. In the meantime, have the principal of Crystal Prep and her so called prized student meet me back here. I would like to meet her."
"I'll see what I can do," Celestia said as Charming Thunder stepped out of the office.
---------------------
Charming Thunder stood at the window to gaze outside as he wore his armor waiting. The door opened as Twilight and the principal of Crystal Prep entered. He smiled in his helmet as he did not turn to face them yet as he greeted them, "I'm sure that Principal Celestia told you about me before you came here," he said. The breathing that the suit makes gave Twilight the chills as she sat in her chair.
"Indeed she has," the principal said. "You are a friend of hers and you are watching over the games with her and Luna. I am Abacus Cinch, principal of Crystal Prep Academy. And this is--"
"Twilight Sparkle. I assumed that she would be your prized student. I can sense fear in her when it comes to the Friendship Games."
"I assure you that she will do well in the games."
"Of course. Mind leaving me with your student? I would like to have a word with her alone." Principal Cinch only nodded and got up to leave the office. Once Charming Thunder and Twilight were alone in the room, he turned to face her and slowly walk up to her. "I assume that the Friendship Games is not the reason you are here is it?"
"I, uh, I don't know what you mean, sir," Twilight said nervously. Charming Thunder sensed a lie and decided to play along.
"I expect great things for you, my dear. Even if you are focused on something way more important." Charming Thunder then walked behind Twilight as he wanted to find out something important. "I hear that there is a masked man here as well. Know anything about him?"
"I, er, have heard of him, but do not know his name."
"You also might be aware of a friend of mine who will also oversee the Friendship Games." Charming Thunder snapped his gloved fingers and Danny walked out to meet Twilight. "I assure you that we won't cause trouble during the games. Am I right?"
"Of course," Danny replied.
"You may go, Twilight. I wish you luck."
"Thank you," Twilight replied. "It was nice meeting you." After Twilight left the room, Charming Thunder and Danny sat down on a chair and thought things over.
"She's probably lying, brother."
"Then we must keep an eye on her then. Whatever she is after, she must not know anything about our true identities and the Equestrian Magic that is here."
"That's not the only thing. The force was strong in her. I could feel it in her blood."
"How is that possible?"
"Search your feelings, Charming. You will know it to be true." Charming Thunder stood up and gazed at his brother. He then crossed his arms with concern.
---------------------
Twilight walked through the halls of Canterlot High as she made her way back to the rest of the students of her school. She then stopped and said, "I know you're here, love." Out of the shadows, a figure wearing a robe and mask under his hood. On his belt was a cross guard lightsaber.
"Any trouble while you were with Miss Cinch?" the masked man asked with concern.
"Nothing at all except that armored man giving me the chills. I did sense darkness in him and sadness."
"I don't trust that man." Twilight placed her hand on the man's mask as she reassured him.
"Don't worry, my love. I may be nervous around other students of Crystal Prep, but I am sure that the source is here."
"I hope you are right."
"I hope so as well, my love."
"And what of the deal you made with Principal Cinch?"
"I'm sure I'll do well in the Friendship Games."
"I'll be here for you if you need me. I sensed a disturbance in the Force as we arrived here. Now come. We must get to the others." Twilight wrapped an arm around the masked man's arm and walked together to check in with the students.
Charming Thunder and Danny did some research on Crystal Prep Academy at the library. Charming Thunder looked through year book of the school as Danny looked it up on the computer. Danny found out that Crystal Prep once put a prank on the Canterlot High statue just to taunt the school's team. A door suddenly opened as Cadence, now the dean of Crystal Prep entered the room. Charming Thunder looked up to see her then back down to continue looking at the year book. "Excuse me," Cadence said. Charming Thunder looked up fast and got up from this chair and turned to face her. It was a good thing that he was wearing his armor to hide himself. He didn't respond as he looked at her. Danny became concerned as well and walked up to him. "I was hoping if you would help me with-- wait. You look familiar."
"Perhaps you don't recognize me," Charming Thunder replied.
"You remind me of someone from the Battle of the Bands."
"A friend?" Cadence nodded in response as Danny stood next to him.
"Was he a member of your band by any chance?" Danny asked.
"How do you know that?"
"Just a hunch." Charming Thunder then recognized her as a student of Canterlot High years ago, but he wonders why is she with Crystal Prep.
"Perhaps you can explain that to us along the way to the school gym," Charming Thunder said. "I hear that is where all the students are right now."
"O-of course," Cadence said as she walked with Charming Thunder and Danny. "He was a good friend of mine when I was a student here. He convinced me and the other students to stand up to Sunset Shimmer and vote for a new princess of the Fall Formal." Charming Thunder had a flash of memory that he remembered that time since he arrived to this world for the first time. "He was a good singer for my band after the Dazzeling's defeat."
"What made you leave Canterlot High?" Danny asked.
"It was after I graduated here. I decided to work at Crystal Prep Academy as the school dean." Anger filled Charming Thunder as the trio arrived at the doors to the gym. Danny and him opened the doors for Cadence and let her enter first.
Charming Thunder then leaned over to Danny and whispered, "Sunset has a lot of explaining to do."
"I couldn't agree more," Danny said as they entered the gym to see that to room is crowded with Canterlot High and Crystal Prep students. Some students were talking to Crystal Prep students. Charming Thunder thinks that they are probably wishing them luck, but Danny thinks that its a rivalry conversation. Charming Thunder tapped Danny on the shoulder and looked over to a commotion going on.
"Twilight, what have you been up to?" Sunset demanded.
"Me? Oh, I was just--" Twilight said when she was interrupted by Indigo Zap.
"Who wants to know?!" Indigo asked.
"Um, we do," Rainbow Dash replied.
"Alright, everyone," Applejack said, trying to calm everyone down. "Let's not get too competitive before the games start."
"The games aren't really competitive since we've never lost," Sugarcoat said. That statement grew interest in Charming Thunder and Danny and decided to approach them to end the commotion.
"That's not a very nice thing to say," Fluttershy said.
"Sorry, dearie, but these games aren't about being nice," Sunny Flare explained.
"Well, you might use a little tact," Rarity said.
"Enough!!" Charming Thunder said. The Crystal Prep students were shocked to hear a familiar voice. They then turned to see Charming Thunder and Danny approach them. "Save your anger for the games." Indigo, Sugarcoat, and Sunny got a little scared at first, but at least the argument stopped. They then leave them alone as Charming Thunder and Danny approached Sunset Shimmer. "May I speak to you privately?"
"Of course," Sunset replied as she followed him. Danny decided to chat with Celestia and Luna while his brother was away. Charming Thunder stopped and grabbed Sunset Shimmer and pinned her to the wall. "What gives?"
"You lied to us. Everything you know about Crystal Prep was just about Twilight and a masked man. So, why is Cadence also with them?"
"I didn't know until now. It's my first time participating for the games while investigating how magic works here." Charming Thunder lets go Sunset Shimmer and stands back. "Charming, I know you are angry about it, but cheer up. The Cadence you knew was years ago during the Battle of the Bands." Charming Thunder sighed and calmed down.
"You're right. My anger shouldn't be on you." As the party started, Charming Thunder sensed something and turned to see Pinkie ponied up and her magic was draining, but from who he wondered. The party was stopped as the music stops and thumping was heard on the microphone. Principal Cinch was up on stage in front of the microphone as Charming Thunder walked to his friends to hear her.
"I'd like to thank Principal Celestia for her unconventional welcome," Cinch said. "It's been four years since the last Friendship Games, but it feels as though nothing has changed. Canterlot High continues to pick its competitors in a popularity contest and Crystal Prep continues to field its top twelve students. It is a comfort to know that even after so many years of losses, your school remains to committed to its ideals, however misguided they may be." Danny was concerned about Cinch and was abut to wonder something. "I wish you all the best of luck, regardless of the inevitable outcome." Once her speech ended, the students continued to what they were doing as Charming Thunder and the others see Pinkie Pie approaching. She walked like that she was dazed or tired. She moaned as Applejack helped her up.
"I'm sorry, Pinkie," Applejack said. "I thought your party additions were really swell."
"Definitely broke the ice," Fluttershy said.
"Yes, if only that Principal Cinch hadn't frozen it again," Rarity added.
"Yeah she's awful," Pinkie said.
"Wow, Pinkie, what happened to you?" Sunset asked.
"I dunno. Everyone started having fun after Twilight and I fired the party cannons and I ponied up."
"Of course you did," Charming Thunder and Sunset said.
"But then the magic just drained right out of me."
"Wait, what do you mean drained out of you?"
"That can only lead to one person," Danny said.
"Hey. Where is that other Twilight?" Applejack asked.
"Oh. She's right... uh, well, she was right here," Pinkie replied. Charming Thunder only moaned in disappointment and decided to go outside to get some air. Sunset decided to follow him to see what he is doing.
Charming Thunder stood outside of the school with his helmet off as his cape flowed from the wind blowing. He couldn't believe what he heard about what happened to Pinkie. He was told that this happened to Rarity somehow before he and Danny arrived. He crossed his arms and thought about what to do. "Troubled you are, hmm?" Yoda's voice said. Suddenly, Yoda's spirit appeared in front of him and Charming Thunder knelt down to his level to meet him.
"It is good to see you too, Master Yoda," Charming Thunder said. "I am troubled by something."
"Hmm. Related to this worlds Twilight Sparkle, is it?"
"Yes. Master Yoda, do you know who the masked man of this world is?" Yoda closed his eyes and then looked back at him.
"Difficult to say. Clouded in darkness is all I know of him. Careful you must be."
"What must I do to find out his identity?"
"Search your feelings and find out you will." The spirit of Yoda faded away as Sunset Shimmer came through the front door and sees him.
"Who are you talking to?" Sunset asked.
"Just a friend of mine from the dead. Why are you here? Shouldn't you be with the others."
"I just wanted to talk to you and see if you were alright after that strange event." Charming Thunder did not respond as he stood up and took a seat at the stairs. Sunset did the same and placed a hand on his shoulder. "Come on. Talk to me. What's troubling you?"
"I'm only concerned about who the masked man is I keep hearing about and how he is related to Twilight."
"As am I, but I am worried about you and your anger."
"Don't worry. I am fine." Sunset sighed and grabbed his gloved robot hand and held it.
"I fear that you will be like me from the past when I stole Twilight's crown."
(Note: Sung to the tune of Phantom of the Opera's All I Ask of You)
Sung by Charming Thunder and Sunset Shimmer
Yet in your eyes All the sadness of your past Those pleading eyes That I once adored
Sunset.... Sunset.... Sunset....
Charming Thunder offered Sunset's hand and lifted her up and slowly walked with her. He then lifted her chin up to his eye level as Sunset Shimmer blushed. Danny peeped his head out of the door to see what's going on. He used his ghost powers to turn invisible as he watched.
No more talk of the past Forget all the bad things; I'm here, nothing can harm you, My words will warm and calm you
Let me be your freedom Let daylight dry your tears; I'm here, with you beside you To guard you and guide you
Say you'll be with me every waking moment, Turn my head with talk of the light Say you need me with you now and always; Promise me that all you say is true That's all I want from you
Charming Thunder pulled Sunset closer for a hug as she let out some tears.
Let me be your guardian Let me be your light You're safe, no one will hurt you Your fears are far away now
All I want is freedom, Away from my dark past And you, always beside me, To hold me and to hide me
Then say you'll share with me one love, one lifetime; Let me lead you to your safety Say you need me with you, here forever Anywhere you go let me go too Sunset, that's all I want from you
Say you'll share with me one love, one lifetime; Lead me, save me from my solitude
Share each day with me, Each night, each morning
I love you
As I love you
Love me, that's all I want from you
Sunset and Charming Thunder pressed their lips for a kiss as Danny just watched and tried not to laugh. They released the kiss and smiled at each other.
Anywhere you go, let me go too Love me, that's all I want from you
Charming Thunder and Sunset embraced a hug and laughed at the same time. She then realized that she has something important to do. "I must get going," she said. "Got to continue the investigation before the games start." Charming Thunder nodded as Sunset opened the door and winked at him. When she entered the school, Charming Thunder walked up to the stairs and picked up his helmet as he sensed his brother's presence.
"I know you're here, brother," Charming Thunder said. Danny then became visible and rubbed his head. "I always knew."
"I'm not here to laugh you know," Danny said as his brother puts his helmet on and activates the breathing sound. "You know that Equestria has a law in article twenty-one."
"What does it state?"
"I'll show you." Danny summoned the Equestria Law book and opened a page in it and began to read the contexts. He then showed it to Charming Thunder as he read it out loud. "I hereby decree that because there is more of the mare population than the stallion population, each stallion can have up to three mares. ONLY three mares, anymore will result into rule break and sentence will be carried out. It was signed by the godess LauraFa herself."
"And you didn't tell me because?"
"I read it since I returned to Equestria after that Twivine incident."
"Why didn't Celestia tell me about that part of the law? Are you saying that Sunset could be the one for me?"
"Maybe. Think about it."
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The next morning, Danny meditated as Charming Thunder read over the Equestrian law book to catch up on some things since he is king. The PA sound was heard as Cadence's voice was heard from it. "Good morning, students," she began. "I'm sure you're all thrilled to start the first day of the Friendship Games. Our competitors will face off in every aspect of the CHS curriculum, culminating in the elimination equation finale." Danny got up as Charming Thunder closed the book and gave it to Danny to send it back to Equestria.
"Sounds like our cue," Danny said.
"Keep your eyes open for the masked man," Charming Thunder ordered. "If he is here representing for Crystal Prep, be ready for anything." Students gathered in the hallway as Cadence was about to explain the first event.
"Welcome to the first event, the Academic Decathlon!" Cadence announced. "You'll be scored on chemistry, home-ec and everything in between. But remember, only the six students from each team with the most points will move on to event number 2. Later on, two students from Crystal Prep have been selected for a special event after the first round ends. Good luck!" Charming Thunder eyed the masked man as the students attended to the first event. He sensed something familiar about him and he tends to find out what it is soon.
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During the final event of the first round, Sunset and Twilight were the last two to step up and answer a simple math question. Sunset wrote down the answer on her chalkboard as Twilight did the same on her board. When they finished, Principal Cinch checked Twilight's answer then moved to check Sunset's. She then pointed her finger towards Sunset and said, "Incorrect!" The Canterlot High students were shocked as Crystal Prep applauded.
"That means the winner of the Friendship Games' first event is Twilight Sparkle and Crystal Prep!" Luna announced. Charming Thunder was impressed with her skills of every school subject.
"No wonder why she is the prized student," Charming Thunder said to himself.
"After a careful tally of the points, we'd like to present the students moving on to the Friendship Games' second event," Cadence said as the crowd applauded.
"Brother, why don't you congratulate our friends for doing their best."
"What are you doing?" Danny asked as Charming Thunder eyed Flash Sentry talking to Twilight.
"I have things to take care of before the next event starts." Charming Thunder got up and approached Flash who looked rather upset. "Something on your mind, my friend?"
"Nothing," Flash replied. "There's just something different about Twilight. She never wears glasses when I first saw her."
"You know me. She doesn't. What if I told you that she is not from where I came from?"
"Then it will make sense to find out why. I'll uh, see you at the next event."
"Oh, you will." Charming Thunder smiled behind his helmet as he already knew what's going to happen. "Let the games begin."
Charming Thunder and Danny were at the library as they discussed the next event they were told about from Celestia. "Twilight sure is smart in this world as well the one at Equestria."
"We are only one point behind," Danny added. "I'm sure that Sunset and the others will win in no time."
"In the meantime, why don't you go to the others. I have things to attend to here in the library." Danny nodded and left the library. Along the way, he heard voices talking in the hallway. He used his ghost powers to turn invisible and spy on what appears to be Twilight and Principal Cinch talking.
"Perhaps you should get to know them after all," Cinch said.
"But I thought you didn't want me to," Twilight said.
"Let's just say I'm covering my bases. Who knows? Perhaps they will reveal to you the secret to Canterlot High's newfound success." Danny couldn't believe what he is hearing. Twilight might spy on his friends or maybe his brother.
"I dunno. Spying feels kind of...wrong."
"Well, it's your decision, Twilight. It's not as if your application hangs in the balance. On second thought, yes, it does." Danny backed away a little and placed a hand on the wall after what he heard.
"She probably made a deal with Cinch," Danny said quietly. "I call it a bribe. This might be important to explain to Charming Thunder later." He then continued his way through the hallway to meet up with Sunset and the others.
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Charming Thunder was reading a book on history as he sat on a table. Twilight entered the library as he didn't notice and she approaches him a little nervous. "Excuse me, sir," Twilight said a little shyly. "Mind if I talk to you?"
"Yes, Twilight, come closer," Charming Thunder replied as he closed the book. "Have a seat." Twilight smiled and sat down on the chair next to him. "I just want to congratulate you for winning the first round of the Friendship Games. That was impressive work you have done."
"Thanks. I am a smartest student in Crystal Prep after all."
"You know I may not be able to rely on you even if you are not on my team. I am surprised that Principal Cinch chose you to participate."
"Rather continue my research, but its the only thing I have left in order for Principal Cinch to accept my application."
"You must sense what I have come to suspect. Crystal Prep wants to win again and probably prank Canterlot High again." Twilight only sat there and didn't say a word. Charming Thunder only guessed why she was here. "Cinch asked you to spy on me, did she?"
"I-I don't--"
"No. It's okay if you are. The Force is strong with you, Twilight. I can feel it within your blood." Twilight's eyes widened and she fixed her glasses to hide the truth.
"I don't think..."
"Twilight, search your feelings. You know, don't you?"
"I have to admit something to you. The masked man is my mentor and he taught me in the ways of the Force."
"And yet you fail to admit it when I first saw you?"
"I know he doesn't trust you, but...."
"And yet you grow suspicious of something here." Twilight turns to Charming Thunder.
"He relies on his passion for his strength. He thinks inwards, only about himself."
"And you don't?"
"I have become selfless. He only cares about you." The conversation stopped for a moment as Charming Thunder fixed himself in his chair. He then leaned forward on the table and began to change changed the subject.
Twilight turned to Charming Thunder and replied, "No."
"I thought not. It's a dark legend my brother told me. Darth Plagueis was a Dark Lord of the Sith, so powerful and so wise he could use the Force to influence the midi-chlorians to create life. He had such a knowledge of the dark side that he could even keep the ones he cared about from dying."
"He could save people from death?"
"The dark side of the Force is a pathway to many abilities some consider to be unnatural."
"Well what happened to him then?" Charming Thunder sighed and continued his story.
"He became so powerful. The only thing he was afraid of was losing his power, which eventually, of course, he did. Unfortunately, he taught his apprentice named Palpatine everything he knew, then he killed him in his sleep." Charming Thunder smiled under his helmet as he continued. "Plagueis never saw it coming. It's ironic that he could save others from death, but not himself." Twilight thought about one thing and asked it to him.
"Is it possible to learn this power?"
"Not from a guardian of the light. It's upsetting to me to see that Crystal Prep does not respect you. They don't trust you, Twilight." Charming Thunder stood up and gestured Twilight to follow him through the library. "They know your power will be too strong to control. You need to let go of your fear and your hate they have created. Let me help you know the subtleties of the Force."
"How do you know the ways of the Force?"
"I have learned it since I first came here to this world. Even the nature of the dark side." Twilight walked ahead and stood in front of Charming Thunder with a little anger in her eyes.
"You know the dark side!?" Charming Thunder sighed and looked away from Twilight for a brief moment. They then began to circle keeping an eye on each other.
"They fear you. In time they will destroy you. Let me help you, but be careful, Twilight. Only through me can you achieve a power greater than anyone. Learn to know the good ways of the Force and you may be able to save your boyfriend from certain death."
"What did you say?"
"Use my knowledge, I beg you." A lightsaber slid out of Twilight's sleeve and ignited her purple blade as Charming Thunder placed his hands up.
"You're the one from the Battle of the Bands. My device could've detected it. Why?"
"I know what's been troubling you for the past few years, Twilight. Just hear me out. Don't continue to be a pawn to Principal Cinch. Ever since I first met you, I sensed a dark future for you. You might break the balance of time and space."
"YOU'RE WRONG!!" Charming Thunder walked past Twilight as she pointed her blade at him. Charming Thunder stopped not looking back at her.
"Are you going to kill me?"
"I would certainly like to."
"I know you would. I can feel your anger. It gives you focus, makes you stronger." Twilight resisted to strike at Charming Thunder so she deactivated her lightsaber and uses the Force to slide it back into her sleeve.
"My boyfriend will hear of this."
"Of course he would. Unless you tell me his name."
"I'd rather not." Twilight walked past Charming Thunder and made her way to exit the library.
Arriving at their reserved seats with the principals and Dean Cadence, Charming Thunder sat next to Danny and Cinch as the competitors get themselves ready for the next round. Charming Thunder leaned over to Danny and whispered, "Anything to report?"
"Fluttershy's magic has been drained," Danny reported quietly. "She believes that Twilight was responsible by using some sort of device around her neck."
"Guessing that maybe the same thing that happened to the portal." The crowd began to cheer as the round is about to start. Cadence stood holding a microphone as she announced the details for the event.
"Welcome, everyone to the Friendship Games Tricross Relay!" Cadence announced. "In this event, our qualifying competitors will face off in archery, speed skating, and finally, motocross. So if the competitors are ready..." Cadence raised the air horn and blows it as Principle Cinch covered her ears. Fluttershy and Sour Sweet made their way to their bow and arrows. "Each competitor must hit a bullseye before their teammates can start the next leg of the relay." Sour Sweet was the first to grab the bow and arrow and fired three at one of the moving targets. The audience cheered as Charming Thunder became amazed with what he saw.
"Three arrows on the same target, eh?" Charming Thunder said. "Well, well."
"That's why she's the best at archery," Principle Cinch replied.
"I could've done it better myself," Danny said to himself. Twilight was the next of the Crystal Prep to run to the stand. When she attempted to jump, she tripped on the haystack and landed face first to the ground. Fluttershy successfully hits a bullseye on a target and Applejack was the next to run towards her location and jumped over obstacles. "Well at least Fluttershy can shoot an arrow with her eyes closed. Bless her soul a miracle." Applejack arrived to get her bow and arrows and readied it. Twilight's arrows kept missing the target and some of them were weak shots. Applejack breathed in and released the arrow at the right time to hit a bullseye. Rarity and Pinkie dashed off on their roller skates as they took the lead.
"And Canterlot is off to an early lead!" Cadence announced. Charming Thunder eyed Twilight who was still missing the target. "If CPA can't hit another bullseye soon, they'll be out of this race." He then saw Applejack helping Twilight with her archery. She then fired her arrow at the right moment and hits a bullseye on the target. He then noticed Applejack ponied up and her magic being drained to Twilight's device. "Canterlot only has two laps to go! But it looks like Crystal Prep is making up for lost time!" He then turned to Danny and pointed to Applejack. He saw a portal open up that came from the device. "What a finish!" Sunset and Rainbow Dash revved up their bikes and drove off. Suddenly, a creature appeared out of the portal and started to attack as the race continued. Charming Thunder and Danny stood up to see what's happening and sees that Rainbow and Sunset crossed the finish line without becoming plant food. "Canterlot wins!" Students of Canterlot High cheered for the winners of the race as Charming Thunder and Danny left the area to go down to their friends to see if they were alright. Arriving to them, they see Sunset getting off her bike and removing her helmet.
"The magic is going haywire and I have no idea how to fix it!" Sunset said.
"Um, excuse me, I didn't mean for any of this to happen," Twilight explained. "I just wanted to learn about the strange energy coming from your school. I didn't know that it was magic or...how it works."
"That's okay," Rainbow replied. "Neither do we." The device around Twilight's neck went out of control and began to suck the magic out of Rainbow.
"RAINBOW!!" Danny shouted as he tried to rush over to save her. He was stopped by Charming Thunder. "LET GO OF ME!! SHE NEEDS HELP!!"
"Your magic will be drained too," Charming Thunder explained as he keeps his brother under control. Danny calmed down as the device began to open a portal over their heads. He then releases his brother and lets him run to Rainbow as Charming Thunder slowly walked over to the group.
"I'm sorry!" Twilight said. "It just started absorbing energy on its own! But I'm not sure how!"
"What do you mean you don't know how?!"
"It also causes these corresponding rifts to appear! I don't know how that works either."
" Is there anything you do know?! Like how to get our magic back?! Or how to fix the portal to Equestria?!"
"Equestria?"
"You're supposed to be so smart, but did you ever think you shouldn't be messing around with things you don't understand?!" Sunset closed the device which caused the portal to close as well. Charming Thunder arrived to the group as Sunset got angry at Twilight.
"But I wanna understand!"
"That's enough, Sunset."
"No. You stay quiet and she will hear me out." Charming Thunder was shocked so he drooped his head down. "And worst of all, you put the lives of my friends in danger!"
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to." Twilight began to cry as she ran away from the group. Sunset's anger faded away as everyone except Charming Thunder see Principal Celestia approach them.
"I'm sorry I couldn't stop all this from happening."
"It's not your fault, Sunset," Celestia said.
"Isn't it? I should know how to control the magic I brought here. But I don't. I let everyone down. And now Principal Cinch thinks we're cheating."
"It doesn't matter what Principal Cinch thinks."
"But it does. The students here at CHS don't just wanna win. They wanna beat Crystal Prep. It isn't gonna count if the other side doesn't really think they lost. Crystal Prep is never gonna believe we won fair and square if there's magic around. And that magic is only around...because of me." Danny placed a hand on Sunset's shoulder as he tried to calm her down.
"It's not the only thing," Danny said as he gestured his head to Charming Thunder's direction who is starting to walk away with shame.
"Oh no! Charming, I didn't mean to--"
"No!!" Charming Thunder shouted. "It's too late now. Its probably my fault too. I just....I just need to think this over." Charming Thunder continued to walk away from the group. Sunset turned to the others who looked sad as well except for Principal Celestia and Danny. Sunset was about to go after Charming Thunder, but was stopped by Celestia's hand placed over her shoulder.
"Let him go, Sunset. He'll probably come around before the final event." Danny decided to go find Twilight and maybe the masked man if he's lucky.
---------------------
Charming Thunder sat in the second floor of the library feeling disappointed about what happened earlier. Not that Sunset yelled at him, but he believes that all this madness was his fault. "She doesn't understand," Charming Thunder said softly. "There's so little left of me." He sniffled as he wiped a tear off of his eye. "So little left."
(Note: Sung to the tune of Beauty and the Beast's If I Can't Love Her)
Sung by Charming Thunder
And in this twisted fate There's not a slightest trace Of anything that even hints of kindness
And behind this mask No comfort, no escape I see, but deep in her is utter blindness
Hopeless As my vision fades As the time flies Loved a long lost friend
Helpless Unforgiven Cold and driven To this sad stories end
Her beauty has moved me Her goodness improved me Her magic on earth If she really loves me
Her passion has reached me As her lessons have taught me How I could have loved her so she could love me too If she really loves me, what then?
Charming Thunder gets up from his chair and walks through the library as he puts on his helmet.
Long ago, I should have sensed All the things she could have been Careless and unthinking, I moved onward
Charming Thunder opened the door which leads him to the roof of the school and he stood to see the sun beginning to set.
No pain could be deeper No life could be cheaper No point anymore If she really loves me
No spirit could win me No hope left within her Hope I could have loved her Before she came to this world
But it's not to be If she really loves me
Charming Thunder's cape transformed into bats and his bat wings spread out on his back as he floated in the air.
Danny was invisible, walking down the hallways. Then, he began to hear a voice nearby. He identified one of them as Twilight but the other was a new one. He blocked out his presence from both of them. Twilight said with worry, “…I just don’t know, love. That armored suit guy knew everything about the light side and the nature of the dark side. He is definitely aware of our actions.”
“Don’t worry, my dear," the Masked Man reassured. "I’ll find out about him, soon enough.” Danny knew his cue and the hallway began to radiate with cold chilling mist. They noticed it and Twilight grabbed her arms together, cold.
“The cold…” Twilight said, chilled to the bone.
“This is no ordinary mist. I sense a dark presence nearby…even more powerful than mine,” the Masked Man warned. Danny began to walk out of the mist. Twilight gasped in shock of the sight of Danny.
Danny greeted, his mask making his voice echo with dark and evil tone, “We meet once again Twilight Sparkle. But I don’t think we were properly introduce…” Danny used the force to see through his mask. He was quite shocked when he realized it was this world’s Charming Thunder. “…Charming Thunder.” Both Twilight and the masked man gasped in shock. They both have drawn their lightsabers and aimed them at Danny.
“Who are you!?” Twilight demanded.
“You looked surprised to see me Twilight. After all…you met my brother not that long ago…” Danny replied to the answer. Twilight gasped and realizes who she was dealing with.
“You’re…that guy’s brother…” Twilight said with some terror, fear, and horror.
“Indeed. I am the Guardian of the Dark Side; the presence of the dark side fuels me with anger, power, chaos, etc." Danny nodded and replied. "But from what I can sense Twilight, is that you are clouded with fear. You are neutral, unable to pick which side to be on.”
"What do you want from us?" Human Charming Thunder asked.
"Nothing really. Just a choice from your girlfriend here on who's side she is really on." Human Charming Thunder dashed towards Danny with a strike ready for him, but Danny was quick enough to Force push him back and hold him on the wall. He tried to break free from the grasp, he wasn't strong enough to break free. "You probably had a dark past as well, Charming. Don't you remember when Twilight used you as an experiment to learn about your power?"
"I was okay with it. She didn't hurt me in the end. She gave me her word."
"Really? Not until she had you hooked up to some wires." Twilight's eyes widened and she decided to strike at him. Danny was quick enough to Force choke her and lift her off the ground.
"Let her go!! This has nothing to do with her."
"Oh, but it does. You see, she has done something to my friends and me and my brother's way back home."
"She told me everything about that. Now let her go!!"
"If you insist." Danny releases Twilight as she collapsed to the floor and coughed. "Consider this as a warning to you and your girlfriend, Charming." The mist then became heavier as Danny walked away from them. Human Charming Thunder was released from Danny's grasp, but before he could throw his lightsaber as the mist cleared, Danny was already gone. He then turned to Twilight and helped her up.
"You alright?"
"I think so," Twilight replied. "How did he know your name?"
"I don't know. But maybe his brother does." Human Charming Thunder walked through the hallway as Twilight followed.
"Where are you going?"
"I'm going after the armored man. You head back to the others and compete in the final match." Twilight went the other direction as Human Charming Thunder continued his way through the hallway. He had his blue cross-guard lightsaber active as he looked for the guy. The lights then flickered as a sign that he is probably close. The breathing sound echoed through the halls as he walked. Suddenly out of nowhere, Charming Thunder appeared and attacked his duplicate and clashed blades. "What are you!?" Charming Thunder didn't answer and pushed him to the ground and tried to slash him, but Human Charming Thunder clashed his blade to block it. "Say something!!" He broke the clash and the lights turned off. When the lights turned back on, Charming Thunder was gone. Human Charming Thunder got up and continued his way through the hallway to continue his search. "COME OUT!!!" He heard the breathing sound and followed it. Charming Thunder popped out again and attacked Human Charming Thunder. "SPEAK!!! What is your purpose here?" Charming Thunder didn't respond and his heavy attack pushed Human Charming Thunder to a locker. The lights went out again and he disappeared again when the light were turned back on. "FACE ME YOU COWARD!!!" Human Charming Thunder followed the breathing sound to the soccer field. No one is around, but Charming Thunder stepped out of the shadows looking at him.
"I knew it was only the matter of time before you realize what I am," Charming Thunder said. He then pointed to him. "Surrender or die here." Human Charming Thunder leaps in the air and landed in front of him with his active lightsaber. Charming Thunder didn't however. "I remember that hilt. It was my mother's once. But yours is probably hand made."
"SHUT UP!!! You don't know anything about me!!"
"Apparently I do....Charming Thunder." Human Charming Thunder was shocked that the armored man knows who he is as well. Charming Thunder grabbed the lightsaber similar to his opponents and ignited his red blade. "You are a fool to face me alone." Human Charming Thunder charged at his duplicate and strikes at him with his lightsaber. Charming Thunder blocked his strikes until they clashed their blades together. Charming Thunder pushed him back and broke the clash to perform a heavy strike. The impact of the strike pushed his opponent again. When they clashed again, Charming Thunder grabbed his opponent and threw him across the field which caused Human Charming Thunder to drop his lightsaber. He then threw his lightsaber as he dodged the throws. He jumped up and grabbed the thrown lightsaber and threw it back at him to the face. Charming Thunder grabbed the spot where the helmet was damaged and releases it to reveal his blue eye. With his anger, he fired lightning from his fingertips towards Human Charming Thunder and forced him to the ground. He leapt in the air and landed in front of his downed opponent and kicked his lightsaber out of the way. He then pointed his blade at his neck when suddenly, a beam of light appeared at the other side of the school. They looked at the beam and then back at each other. "Perhaps we are in an impasse." Charming Thunder deactivated his lightsaber and placed it on his belt then offered Human Charming Thunder's hand to help him up. He then took off his helmet as the duplicate did the same after lowering his hood. His face had a scar on his left eye.
"Your strength is admirable," Human Charming Thunder said. "But I sense something from that beam. Twilight may be in trouble."
"A truce maybe in order."
"Agreed." Charming Thunder and his duplicate shook hands and leaps up to the roof of the school to go see what the commotion was about.
At the entrance of Canterlot High, portals opened around the area revealing some locations of Equestria. Twilight now became something else thanks to opening the device and releasing the magic. She laughed evilly then looked at Sunset Shimmer. "Twilight, you can't do this!" Sunset shouted.
"Why not?!" Twilight replied. "There's a whole other world right there, and it's just filled with magic!"
"But you're destroying this world to get it!"
"So what? There's more magic there, and I want to understand it all!" Danny stood up to her and makes an attempt to convince her to stop.
"You'll probably destroy this world too," Danny said. "It's not right. You don't know how to use this power. And I cannot allow you to continue." Danny activated his lightsabers and leaps in the air in an attempt to strike at her. Twilight fired a beam of magic at Danny which sends him to a wall. When Danny fired lightning at her, she reflected the strike and fired at the roof to let the rubble collapse over him. Applejack and the others were saving students from falling into the hole on the ground. Suddenly, bats flew past Twilight which she wasn't scared of and the swarm of bats flew to the other side of the school. A voice then echoed the area as Twilight recognized it.
"My brother is right you know," Charming Thunder's voice said. "You can't even control your power."
"Nice of you to drop in, Charming Thunder."
"Save your pleasantries. Darkness is starting to cloud your mind and turning you into a monster. This is not the Twilight I know."
"I understand magic now!! But my path is clear now. Perhaps a little demonstration as I destroy your friends." Sunset gasped as Twilight charged up her magic and fired at her. Charming Thunder then appeared with bat wings on his back as he reflected the magic with his lightsaber. He then turned to Sunset as he struggled to hold the magic.
"Get everyone to safety!! Now!!"
"I am not leaving you!!" Sunset shouted.
"Let me handle her. The other me will help our friends. See if Danny is okay." Sunset ran off to the debris to dig out Danny as Charming Thunder turned back to gaze at Twilight. "If this will be the end of me, I will take you with me." Charming Thunder then swung his charged lightsaber to deflect the magic back at Twilight. This electrocuted her a little and forced her to land feet first to the ground. "Why not try fighting me. We can settle this ourselves. As it was meant to be from the start." Charming Thunder activated his lightsaber and flew up in the air then dashed towards Twilight to strike first. Twilight was quick enough to magically make her own lightsaber and block the strike. Twilight used Force Push to push him away. She then fired lightning at him, but Charming Thunder reflected it with his hand and shot it back at her. Twilight dodged it and charged at Charming Thunder. She tackled him and kicked him away from her. She got up to fire her magic at him, but impacted on the wall as Charming Thunder was nowhere to be seen.
"Come out and fight!!" Twilight shouted. "Were you in love with Sunset, Charming? Do you honestly think that she would want you when she had someone like Flash Sentry?" Fire grew in Charming Thunder's eyes as he sneak up on Twilight and attempted to strike her, but she leaps in the air and threw him across from her. "It's over. I have won!!" Charming Thunder did a heavy strike which caused Twilight to loose her lightsaber. He then grabbed her by the neck and lifted her up off the ground.
Sunset sees what's going on and shouted to him, "Don't do it, Charming. It's not worth killing her. There has to be another way. Think of your mother!!!" Charming Thunder looked at Twilight with anger after he heard Sunset's plea. His anger subsided and pulls Twilight closer with his grasp.
"You are done," Charming Thunder said to Twilight before he dropped her. He then looked towards Sunset with sadness in her eyes. He slowly approached Sunset as the bats returned to form his cape. Twilight secretly charged her magic and readied it when the time was right. "I'm sure there is, Sunset." Sunset then placed her hand on his cheek as Charming Thunder stood.
Sunset's eyes widened as she shouted, "Charming, look out." Charming Thunder looked behind him and sees Twilight charging her magic and fired. He then turned back to Sunset and pushed her to the side to move out of the way. Before he could react, the magic pierced through his chest like a spear. Everyone gasped as they couldn't believe what they just saw. Charming Thunder looked down to see the magic piercing him then looked at Sunset.
Tears fell from Charming Thunder's eyes as he gasped out something to Sunset, "I'm...sorry." Twilight then pulled her magic out of his chest then threw him away from everyone else. Sunset stood up as Twilight laughed menacingly and flew up in the air.
"Now that this pest is out of the way."
"What have you done?" Twilight looked down to Sunset who was looking away from her. "Why did you have to do it to him?"
"He was in my way so I gave him what he wanted." Sunset picked up the device and looked at her friends who were sad to see Charming Thunder go down. She then looked back to Twilight as the device beeped.
"This isn't the way! I know you feel powerful right now, like you can have everything you want! I've been where you are, I've made the same mistake you're making! I put on a crown and, just like you, I was overwhelmed by the magic it contained! I thought it could get me everything I wanted!"
"Oh, you're wrong. Unlike you, I can have everything I want!"
"No, you can't. Even with all that magic and power, you'll still be alone! True magic comes from honesty! Loyalty! Laughter! Generosity! Kindness! I understand you, Twilight, and I want to show you the most important magic of all..." Applejack and the others began to glow and fired color beams at Sunset. She then threw down the device which made her transform. She had fiery wings like a phoenix and a glowing horn on her forehead and wore a wedding like dress. "....the Magic of Friendship!" Sunset fired beams of magic to close the portals. Twilight growled as she witnessed her power. "For what you have done to Charming Thunder and all of us, you will pay for what you did." Both Twilight and Sunset fired their beams of magic. Their beams clashed and used their strength to push theirs forward. Spike jumped out of Fluttershy's arms and approached them.
"Twilight!" Spike shouted. Twilight looked down to see Spike crying tears. When she blinked, her eyes turned to normal as tears fell out of her eyes.
"Spike?" Twilight said. This was Sunset's chance to finish this fight. She used her strength to defeat Twilight and a bright light emits around her. "NOOOO!!"
The area was surrounded with light as Sunset and Twilight floated in the area. Sunset offered her hand as she said, "Take my hand, Twilight. Let me show you there's another way...just like someone once did for me." Twilight slowly took Sunset's hand and the light began to fade away. They floated back to the ground in their normal forms.
"I am so sorry...I didn't mean for any of this to happen..." Twilight then wept quietly until Sunset grabbed Twilight's hands that were covering her eyes.
"I know. And going by my own experiences, they'll forgive you." Spike barked as he carried Twilight's glasses and leapt up to her. She giggled with every kisses given to her from Spike. Danny came out of the rubble with his now damaged armor. He walked up to Twilight as she ran to him and gave him a tight apologetic hug. The hug broke as Danny smiled behind his mask. Human Charming Thunder approached and gave Twilight a hug as well. Danny decided to take off his damaged mask to reveal his face to them.
After a brief moment, Principal Cinch appeared and angrily demanded, "Principal Celestia, on behalf of Crystal Prep, I demand that you forfeit the Friendship Games! Clearly, CHS has had unfair advantage for quite some time! And it's certainly obvious that your students have been using magic for their own benefit!"
"I'd like to think that saving the world benefits us all," Celestia said.
"At least they didn't manipulate Twilight into releasing all the stolen magic and turning into a power-crazed magical creature that tried to rip the world apart and kill one guy just to win a game," Sugarcoat added.
"Wow!" Pinkie said. "That's a lot to take in when you say it all at once."
"That's ridiculous!" Cinch said.
"Nope, that's pretty much what happened," Spike said.
"Did this worlds Spike just--" Danny said.
"Yes, he just talked," Rainbow said as she placed her hand on his shoulder.
"Actually, we're all to blame," Sour Sweet said in honesty. "Mostly it was her."
"Obviously my students have been infected with your magic, but I plan on taking all of this up with the school board!"
"Why you--" Danny said as he was about to walk up to her in anger.
"Good." Celestia said.
"What!?" Danny and Cinch said.
"I'm sure they would be very interested in hearing all about the magical students with wings."
"Oh, and the portals to different dimensions," Luna added.
"And don't forget to tell them about the talking dog," Cadence added.
"Because that would never ruin your reputation," Spike explained. Cinch was now surrounded by Canterlot High and Crystal Prep students as she realized that Celestia was right. She said nothing and just walked away.
"Well, I know these Friendship Games haven't been what any of us expected, but given what we've all just been through, I think it's fair to declare us all winners," Celestia announced as the crowd cheered. The cheering stopped when they heard a moaning sound. They turned to see Charming Thunder with his hand on his chest limping towards them. He then collapsed to the ground as Sunset and the others except Danny and Human Charming Thunder rushed on over to him. Sunset Shimmer cradled him as Charming Thunder can barely breath.
"You...You have done it," Charming Thunder said.
"Not just me," Sunset said. "My friends helped me til the very end." Twilight got to her knees to reach his eye level and wept.
"This is all my fault!!" Twilight said. "If only I have taken your advice."
"Maybe it's better...it's better this way," Charming Thunder said with his dying breath.
"Don't talk like that," Sunset pleaded. "What matters is that we're together now and magic is restored to the portal now." Charming Thunder placed his hand on Sunset's hair and caress it.
"At least I got to save you for the first time." Sunset embraced his hand and as Charming Thunder's life fades away, he lets go and lowers his hand with his last breath. His eyes closed as Sunset and the others gasped.
"No. No! Please don't leave me." Sunset Shimmer wept on Charming Thunder's chest as her friends including Twilight sheds their tears. "I love you." Danny lowered his head to have his moment of silence as Spike rubbed his head on Charming Thunder's arm and whimpered. As she continued to weep, Twilight's device began to glow and levitate off the ground along with Charming Thunder and the Mane 5 surrounding him in a circle. Charming Thunder's bat wings appeared and cradled him up like a bat. The Mane 5 began to glow and Fluttershy's harmony beam was the first to fire. Everyone was amazed with what's going on even Danny and Human Charming Thunder.
"Impossible," Danny said.
"What?" Human Charming Thunder asked.
"The Elements of Harmony are reviving him without the Element of Magic." Rainbow's harmony beam was the next to hit Charming Thunder then Rarity's, then Pinkie's, and Applejack's. Sunset then began to glow and ponied up to the form she fought Twilight in and fired her beam at him. They remained floating when the beams faded away and the wings that wrapped Charming Thunder began to change. It then spreads to reveal his newest pair of wings and glowed brightly as the sun. It looked similar to Twilight's when she transformed. They slowly floated down first as Charming Thunder landed on the ground last. Sunset was about to check if he's alright until he began to move. Charming Thunder slowly got up and looked at himself to see that his wound is healed. He then turned to face his friends as his new wings expanded on his back.
"What....just happened?" Charming Thunder asked.
"I should ask the same thing," Rarity asked. Sunset stepped up closer to him as Charming Thunder looked at her.
"Is it really you?" Sunset asked as she caressed Charming Thunder's cheek.
"Would I lie to you?" Charming Thunder replied as he grabs her hands. "That's a good look for you." Sunset blushed to the complement he made.
"I should say the same to you with your new pair of wings."
"The dress as well."
"Charming?"
"Yes, Sunset."
"Stop talking and kiss me." Charming Thunder smiled as their wings surrounded each other and embraced a kiss. Danny already knew what's going on and crossed his arms.
"Twitterpated," Danny said.
"What's twitterpated?" Sweetie Belle asked.
Danny cleared his throat and replied, "I'm uh sure Rarity will tell you when you are older."
Now that both Canterlot High and Crystal Prep are no longer rivals, they both chat with each other before Crystal Prep departs. Human Charming Thunder sat next to Twilight cuddling her as Dean Cadence approached. "I guess that was one way to finish your time at Crystal Prep," she said. "Pretty sure Cinch will be fast tracking your application after all of that."
"I've been thinking about it and...I'm not so sure now is the time for me to apply to Everton," Twilight said.
"Really?" Human Charming Thunder and Cadence said.
"But it was your dream of attending Everton," Human Charming Thunder said. "Why the sudden change?"
"I may know about a lot of things, but friendship isn't really one of them. And I'm definitely not gonna learn more about it by being alone all the time."
"So, you're staying at Crystal Prep?" Cadence asked.
"Well, it seems the students here at CHS know an awful lot about the subject. I don't suppose..."
"You could transfer to this school instead."
"Really?"
"You'd certainly be missed at Crystal Prep. But I think that's a great idea! I'll be sure to speak to Principal Celestia about it right away."
"I'm thinking of transferring there too, sister," Human Charming Thunder said. "I finally realize where I belong." Twilight smiled at Human Charming Thunder and kissed him. At the now destroyed Canterlot High statue, Charming Thunder and the others waited for a reply from Twilight in Equestria.
"Still no word from Princess Twilight?" Fluttershy asked.
"Not yet," Sunset replied. "But I think I may have figured out how magic works in this world. We pony up when we're showing the truest part of ourselves. I was so busy waiting for someone else to give me the answers that I gave up looking for them myself. I'm sure there will be more magical problems that pop up in this world, but like Applejack said, Princess Twilight has her own problems to worry about in Equestria. We can't expect her to always be around to help us. Even reviving the bearer of the Element of Courage." Sunset hugged Charming Thunder as he smiled.
"But maybe I can be?" Twilight said. The group turned to see Twilight along with Principal Celestia and Human Charming Thunder approaching them.
"It seems we have two new Wondercolts here at Canterlot High!" Celestia said.
"I'm not sure how much help I could be. But I'd like to try. If you would all give me a chance."
"I'm sure I can count on you girls to help her feel at home."
"You sure can," Sunset said as she along with her friends came in for a group hug with Twilight. Twilight looked towards Charming Thunder and Danny and walked up to him slowly. She then took out her lightsaber and looked at it.
"Charming, I don't think I deserve to have this." Twilight handed Charming Thunder her lightsaber to him as she then played with her hair. "You were right. I couldn't control this power I bear. Not to mention use Equestrian magic to kill you. Can you ever forgive me?" Charming Thunder looked at her lightsaber then looked at Twilight with a smile. He then grabbed her hand and places her lightsaber in her hand and closes her hand for her.
"I'm sure that this world's me can teach you how to control it," Charming Thunder reassured. "Since he taught you how to use it after all." Tears fell out of Twilight's eyes with joy and hugged him tight.
"Thank you." Twilight then released the hug as Charming Thunder caressed her hair. He then looked up to his duplicate and walked up to him.
"I believe a thanks is in order." Charming Thunder lets out his gloved hand to offer Human Charming Thunder's handshake. He grabbed his hand and shook it.
"Perhaps I can oversee Twilight's training," Danny suggested. "I am the master of the dark side and I can teach her all I know."
"Thank you, Danny," Human Charming Thunder replied.
"We don't know if the portal back home is going to work anyway," Charming Thunder said. "Maybe we can stay here until we know if the portal works." He then wraps his arm around Sunset's waist and nudged her as Sunset placed her hand on his chest.
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A week has passed since the events of the Friendship Games as Charming Thunder and the others have a picnic in front of the statue. Charming Thunder petted Spike as Danny meditated hoping for a miracle to happen. The portal suddenly opened and Twilight from Equestria ran through it. "I'm so sorry I didn't get here sooner!" she said. "I didn't get your messages until just now because I was caught in this time travel loop and honestly, it was the strangest thing that's ever happened to me!" She then sees her duplicate as they looked at each other. The human Twilight shyly waved at her as Twilight was shocked at what she is seeing. "Make that the second strangest."
"I was hoping when you would show," Charming Thunder said. "It has been like what a week?" Twilight looked at her husband and then at the human version of Charming Thunder.
"Can someone tell me what's going on here? I understand about another me, but another Charming Thunder?"
"Nice to meet you too," Human Charming Thunder said.
"Why don't you just calm down and try not to go crazy about this," Danny said. The portal suddenly opened again and the Equestrian Rainbow Dash stepped through. Danny gulped after seeing her step through. "Oh dear. I'm in trouble."
"Not exactly," Rainbow replied. Danny sighed with relief and wiped a sweat off of his head. Charming Thunder face palmed after that response even though she knows her life married to Danny.
"We can explain everything once we go back to Equestria, love," Charming Thunder said to Twilight. "But for now, there is something I want to share with you and Sunset Shimmer. Danny?"
"Oh, right." Danny then summoned the Equestrian law book to his hands and opened it up. "Charming Thunder and I have been talking about this for a week. Twilight, have you read the Equestrian law book that LauraFa made?"
"No," Twilight replied. "Celestia didn't tell me that there was an Equestria law book."
"This one is something we want to talk about." Danny cleared his throat and read the law to her. "According to rule number twenty-one, it is decreed that because there is more of the mare population than the stallion population, each stallion can have up to three mares. ONLY three mares, anymore will result into rule break and sentence will be carried out."
"Let me see that," Sunset said as she swiped the book out of Danny's hands and reads it. She then thought of Charming Thunder after she read it. "Girls, would you mind leaving me to talk with Charming Thunder and the others?" The group nodded and left the picnic area to give her some privacy with Charming Thunder and her friends.
"You love him, don't you?" Twilight asked.
Sunset held her arm as she confessed, "I do, your highness. He has been a really good friend to me since we were young. I'm sure he told you about my past life with him before I came here."
"Indeed he did during the time of the Battle of the Bands. If you really do love him, I understand."
"Then does that mean I can be with him as well as you?"
"Of course. If it makes you happy, I will allow it."
"Oh, thank you, Twilight. You don't know how much it means to me. If only I went back to Equestria without disappointing my friends of this world." Danny smiled and walked up to Sunset.
"There is a way," Danny said.
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After a brief explanation from Danny and the rest of Sunset's friends return, Danny magically teleported a mirror from Equestria and explained to everyone what it does. "This mirror will make a duplicate of yourself," Danny said. "So that you can then leave the duplicate here with your friends. Unlike the mirror pool, it copies your memories so that it can be like you."
"I understand," Sunset replied.
"Is it safe?" Twilight asked.
"I can assure you, Twilight, it will not harm her in the process. Now shall we begin?" Sunset nodded and gazed deeply into the mirror as Danny chanted in ancient vampony tongue. "Kathréfti̱ , egó̱ diatázo̱ na klo̱nopoii̱theí to on brostá sas af̱tí̱ ti̱ stigmí̱." The mirror then began to glow and gave a bright glow into her eyes. When the light faded, Sunset uncovered her eyes and took a glance at her duplicate that was created from the power of the mirror. "Sunset, meet your duplicate."
"Oh thank you, Danny. My friends, looks like this is goodbye." Sunset's human friends gave her a group hug then walked up to Charming Thunder then wrapped her arm around his. Charming Thunder smiled and looked at Danny.
"Sunset, lets go home," Charming Thunder said. Sunset nodded and walked with him through the portal.
"I will inform Celestia of her return if you wish," Twilight requested.
"I'm sure she will be happy to see her student," Danny said. He then walked through the portal as Twilight and Rainbow Dash did the same. The group waved goodbye to them then group hugged Sunset Shimmer's duplicate and laughed.
