> Pirate's Life for Scoots > by Trinket334 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Prolouge > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Somewhere in the Spiral "Defeated by a mere wizard, outsmarted by two mere fools. Unbearable, Lord Kane would truly be displeased." A figure spoke in a monotonous voice as our story begins in a dark hall with 6 other figures. "We must find this young orphaned pirate before anything else, If this 'Maestro' believes that this mere pirate can topple OUR grand design, it must be imperative that this pirate must be found." a more commanding voice replied. "The question is...who?" another voice, this one...rather nasally. "And just where do we find this pirate?" "There are many pirates in the Spiral then there are an actual Spiral, I'm sure we will find something." a voice says teasingly. "If not, then we must take the risk and assimilate the islands in the process." the same voice says in a now menacing tone. "Enough." One final figure announced in a commanding but casual tone. "It doesn't matter if we must destroy the islands in the spiral if we have to, this pirate must be found, in the name of the Armada. "However Bishop raises a prominent point, the matter of who we are searching for and the location of the pirate, is beyond even I. How can we search for a pirate that is unknown to us?" "It is unknown to you, but I know clearly who we must search for." came a completely different voice. The voice entered the room seemed to be a four legged creature. His identity is completely unknown as the only part of his attire they can see is his pristine white hooded robe. "Trinket," The leader said nonchalantly. "So glad of you to make it." "Tell us. What is this information you speak of that is so important as to barge into the castle unbeknownst to us." Deacon inquired. "I came to remind you, of a past threat to our cause, that could very well, connect to this 'orphaned pirate'" he says as he took his seat in the round table. "Tell me, gentlemen. Do you remember, the past attacks on the Armada from the Skywaker Pirates?" "How could I dare forget? Those pirates have unimaginable power that rivals our own." Bishop said almost worrying. "It was a drastic battle, yes, but in the end, we've dealt with them already, proving that the Armada prevails. And should another one of those 'Skywaker Pirates' attack once more, we shall remind them of our power - this time, they shall learn." said darkly. "Then, surely know of the youngest Skywaker?" Everyone looked at the clockwork stallion in confusion. "Explain" Deacon uttered bluntly. It was then that Trinket took out a diagram of what appears to be a family tree. "As you know, the Skywaker Pirates are under the command of the swift assassain: Stormwaker Thunderblitz, daughter of the elder pirates, Earthwaker Terra, grandfather of the doctor of faith: Lightwaker Cheerilee, older sister of the Plunderer of Shadows: Darkwaker Ravenscar, who will be but a lost cause to our plan. Then we have Oceanwaker Bluebreeze of the elder pirates, grandmother of the Whirlwind Beserker: Windwaker Rumble. "Ah yes, the one we recently 'donated' to Fort Elena, truly interesting. But just out of curiosity who is Thunderblitz's husband?" Bishop asked as Trinket continues to peak his colleagues' interest. "I'm afraid the husband of the Skywaker captain remains a mystery to all of us," he answered. "Now that I've given my summary of the Skywaker Pirates, there's still the matter of one member. Daughter of the captain, and grandaughter of the elder pirates alike AND sister of the Whirlwind Beserker. The Firewaker." he then showed his colleagues on the diagram the pony in the very middle. It seems to be an orange coated foal with a flowing purple mane. "A mere foal is assumed to be the one who shall be the downfall. I'm starting to lose interest in your theory, Trinket." Deacon says bluntly. "Would you rather take that risk, Deacon?" Trinket interjected. "Children, my frind, tend to be troublesome if not taken lightly. "We must find the filly and bring her to justice just as the Maestro suggests. We cannot allow the Skywaking heathens oppose to our design again. Just as you said, my lord, should we face them again, they must be dealt with." Everyone then looked in silence and then the leader of the Armada finally spoke up. "I concur. We must find her and capture her." he says darkly. "I bestow the job to you, Trinket, for your equine appearance we will be able to sail through this world of equines. At nightfall, we will sneak into Equestria and capture her. Should any witness view what occurs, you will put them to sleep and capture them as well." he commanded. "Sir." he saluted. "Now, before we conclude this meeting, you did not tell us the name of this 'Firewaker' Deacon realized. Trinket gave a dark smirk and let out the name of the pirate. "Firewaker Scootaloo. > Captured! > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 1: Captured! The REAL story begins in what appears to be a prison cell, where a lone filly sleeps peacefully...wait PRISON CELL? "mmm Rainbow Dash.." the little filly mumbled in her sleep. Probably dreaming about her favorite idol. "..is there no stopping your levels of coolness..?" she let out a mere snore as she blissfully sail through dreamland, sounds of cannon blasts and yells and shouts were heard from the outside. "you're so..awesome" she mumbles when suddenly, BOOM! Flinching awake, the little pony rose up from her slumber in shock and surprise. Arising from her slumber, she looked at her surroundings only to see she's not in her warm cozy bed, but instead in the cold damp floor of her cell. And hey, she's in the company of the skeleton of the past cell propriortor. "Huh? This isn't my bed! Although it explains why I couldn't sleep. But where am I?" the filly first reacted. She crept up and looked through her cell in search of any familiar faces. Fortunately, across from her cell slept a grey coated filly with glasses and a shining silver mane. Immediately she knew who she was. "Silver Spoon?" the orange pegasus asked herself. She then looked to see if anyone else was present. Unfortunately, only she and the silver coated filly present in the room. Her attention then went back to the silver pony and she attempted to get her attention. "Pssst...Silver Spoon"she tried to reach her, but she only slept peacefully. "Silver Spoon..." no cigar, she's still out like a light. Only one more way to get her attention. "SILVER SPOON!" "Huh?! what?!" finally she woke up, just as confused as ever once she looked at her surroundings. "Scootaloo?" the silver filly asked in confusion. "Where are we?" she asked in a hint of panic. "One thing's for sure, I don't think we're in Equestria anymore," she inquired. "But where ARE we?!" Silver demanded now in panic. But the moment Scootaloo opened her muzzle, BOOM! "GET DOWN SHE'S GOING TO BLOW!" came a completely different voice. This voice was clearly a man's voice, but it sounds rather scratchy to say the least. BOOM! another blast was fired, almost rocking the place. "I'm starting to come to the conclusion that we're in a pirate ship." Scootaloo inquired. "It's one of these prisoners! Check the ones down there, monkey!" commanded the same voice. "Oh, I'm on it!" came another voice, only the voice was a rather distinct accent than the other voice. A sound of footsteps were suddenly heard heading towards the location the two girls were in. As the footsteps have gotten closer and closer, the two were met with two...peculiar figures. One was a round bald creature with a red coat, traditional pirate garb, skull painted tricone, eye-patch, and hook. The man wears black pants and boots, and most of his shirt was blocked by his shaggy white beard. The other creature seems to be on the filly's length. His apparel would remind Scootaloo of what a tactical officer from the Wonderbolts would wear. One thing about the other man's appearance is that compared to his round friend, he's much more HAIRIER than him. "Are THEY ze prisoners we are looking for?" the small hairy man said in the rather distinct accent the ponies heard before. "Hard to say..." the bearded man said as he walked to Scootaloo's cell. "Ye got a name, girl?" "Who wants to know?" the orange filly asked in suspicion. "Call it intuition, my friend. But don't ye worry. We're here to get ya outta here." the bearded man says smugly. She was suspicious at first, but hesitantly she gives the pirate her name. "Scootaloo" "It matches ze name, Captan! I told you, she's the one!" the monkey exclaimed. "Pardon me for interrupting, but...who are you two?" Silver Spoon interrupted. "I guess we didn't introduce ourselves huh?" the bearded man says sheepishly as he began to introduce himself. "The names Boochbeard, lass! And this be me first mate, Mr. Gandry" "And as my captain said before, we have come to break you out of this accursed prison" Gandry continued. "OK um a pleasure to meet you, Boochbeard and Mr. Gandry. But uh..." Silver Spoon started as her bewilderment turned into rage. "WHY ARE WE IN PRISON IN THE FIRST PLACE?!" she screeched as interestingly enough, she was so enraged that her teeth grew sharp as a shark's. "Ah, that is not our question to answer. So uh, don't take your anger on us, take it on the Armada!" Boochbeard shook in terror. "The Armada?" Scootaloo intervened in curiosity. "Aye the Armada." Boochbeard answered. "They be a whole army of clockwork soldiers bent on the destruction of the Spiral. They have something BIG planned, and you're the main thorn on their side. Must be the reason why they captured you" "That's stupid," she stated bluntly. "How am I in the way of their plan?" "And why am I here?" Silver Spoon interjected. "We'll explain later! Right now, our top priority is getting you out of that confounded bring. There's pirating to be done!" Boochbeard cried out as he raised his sword. "Whoa, whoa WHOA there, Beardy!" Silver Spoon hissed. "There is absolutely NO WAY I'm going out of my way to become a ragtag pirate sailing with a band of misfits! If you will be ever so kind as to release me, I will make it worth your while. But ONLY if you escort me home." she replied as if she was royalty. "She's new to this redemption stuff." Scootaloo said nervously as she shed a tear of sweat. "Uh...Missy, I hate ta break it to you, but wherever your home is, you're MILES away from it." Boochbeard replied in concern. The silver filly was taken aback from what the pirate just said. "I beg your pardon?" Silver Spoon replied. "Well...it's like zis" Gandry started explaining. "You ponies come from Equestria, yes? Well, little did you know, zere are worlds OUTSIDE of Equestria, to which zey make up ze Spiral. As we speak, you are sailing across the skyways of OUR homeworld, Skull Island. In short, you are far FAR away from Equestria." "Isn't there a way back? Equestria's our home!" Scootaloo asks in concern that she may never return home. "Two ways to go through the worlds of the Spiral." Boochbeard says as the two sigh in relief. "1: You could go through the easy way and find a Spiral Door. However, each world requires a key...and we don't have any." The two sighed again. "What's the second way?" Scootaloo asked in hope. "Do what we do and sail through ze Stormgates in hope you'll find the one leading to Equestria," Gandry explained. "But in order to do zat you need a Windstone. Zey are crystals that can allow ANY ship to go through ze Stormgates, depending on the color Windstone." "Great..." Silver Spoon replied dismissively. "So, do you have those Windstones so we can sail back home?" The two pirates looked at the silver filly in annoy. "Ya HONESTLY think life is all that simple do ye?" Boochbeard said to her in agitation. "If you're rich, of course" the silver filly interjected. "Excuse her, she's under influence of a certain airhead back in my homeworld" Scoots apologized bitterly. "But they're redeeming don't worry." "knowing them, it'll be a long road to redemption," Gandry quipped. "You have no idea." "WELL ANYWAY," Boochbeard interjected just when Silver Spoon was about to say something back. "Bottom line, if you two want to sail back to Equestria, you'll need a ship. An old colleague of mine will give you one, but I sincerely doubt you'll earn it goody-goody style. In order to find your way back home, you'll have to fight all who gets in your way, including the Armada. What do ya say? Think you'll handle the life of a pirate?" Scootaloo's mind is racing as fast as Dash's flying. To get home, she'll have to be a pirate? There was no other option. I want to go home, but I don't want to go so far as to become a pirate? But...it's the only way to find my way back. Oh, what do I do? "Well Scoots?" Boochbeard says awaiting his answer. It was a tough decision, but her mind was set. She knew what to do. "This is my ONLY way to get home?" she asked. "Unless either of you already HAS a Spiral key?" Gandry interjected. "Alright, fine. If it means finding my way back." she sighed in defeat as the two pirates cheered. "HAR HAR SPLENDID! Ye won't regret this venture, girls," Boochbeard reassured. "Now then let's get the both of you out of those confounded brig. There's piratin' to be done!" he said as he pulled the lever nearby...one problem It's not pulling. > Prison Break > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 2: Prison Break HAR HAR SPLENDID! Ye won't regret this venture, girls," Boochbeard reassured. "Now then let's get the both of you out of those confounded brig. There's piratin' to be done!" he said as he pulled the lever nearby...one problem It's not pulling. Boochbeard struggled to pull the lever, but the darn thing just won't budge."The door! She's urgh jammed!" Boochbeard strained as he finally gave up. "The bulkhead's bent!" "Well NOW what are we suppose to do?" Gandry complained. "Dangit are you saying I'm s-" BOOM! Scootaloo's complaint was cut short when everyone ducked down as a cannon fire blasted the room. As the smoke cleard, everyone looked to see a big gaping hole in Scootaloo's cell. A perfect advantage for an escape route. "How convenient" Silver Spoon quipped. "Look there, the panel's broke free!" Boochbeard inscribed. "We'll free ol' Silver over here, you use that hole to make your way back around to us!" he commanded. She didn't need to be told twice, she ran as fast as she can to find the route back when suddenly, "You, I need help" came a low scratchy voice. Scoots took a closer look and found another prisoner. This prisoner is a completely different horse than what she would usually see in Equestria. This was a brown horse with beating red eyes and a thin black goatee. Instead of four hooves, this horse has two hooves and two hands. The being was wearing a small coned fur hat, a red shirt with steel plated armor, and grey trousers. "Use that lever, get me out of here!" he said in a thick accent. Scootaloo did as the horse says and pulled the lever, releasing him from his cage. "Thank you, young one, I am at your debt.'" the horse bowed. "I am Subodai, I hail from Mooshu. Take me with you and together we shall crush our enemies." "You're coming with me?" Scootaloo asked resulting in the horse nodding his head yes. "Alright, Subodai, let's get out of here!" to which they ran to make their way back to Boochbeard, Gandry, and Silver Spoon. "Before we go," Subodai stopped her. "That chest over there. It stores my blade, we must get it." with a sigh from Subodai's new captain, the two ran back to the walls and spotted a little chest standing in the back of the room. Subodai opened the chest seeing a whole haul of weapons. He picked up a long and blunt sword known as a dao. He also picked up a long and slim rapier and handed it to his captain. "Take it," he says. "You must defend yourself." "Got it." she nodded as she grabbed her new blade by the teeth and made a break for it to the main cellblock , where the two pirates and the one filly were waiting. "What took ya so long? We gotta get going!" Boochbeard panted as he and the others ran up the stairs. "Had ho hick uh home ehtra shuff." Scootaloo muffled. Finally the group reached the top of the stairs leading on to the deck of the ship. Compared to messy brig, the deck of the ship was looking the worst for wear. Fire roaring on deck, cannon soot all over the floors, and then...him. "What's this? Boochbeard! Trying to steal my prize, you ruffian?" the group looked to see in front of them just standing by the helm of the ship, a man wearing a plain white mask. He looks important. "Who's he?" Silver Spoon asked the bearded pirate. "Deacon." Boochbeard said glaring at the man. "Spymaster of ze Armada! I think, we're in trouble..." Gandry shook. "Our jailer. Clockwork menace, you will pay for putting us in cages!" Subodai growled, but the said clockwork only looked in stared down at us. "I think not." Deacon declined in a monotone almost droning voice. "The prisoner must NOT be allowed to escape! TAKE THEM!" he raised his cane up high, when suddenly three more clockworks fell down from the sky. These clockworks were MUCH different than Deacon. Just like him, white masks were covering their faces, only difference to them is their feminine physique and behind their backs, a pair of mechanical wings. Immediately Gandry knew what they are. "Battle Angels!" he exclaimed. "They are the Armada's elite warriors!" "Indeed," Deacon mused. "It's high time you bafoons know just who you're trifling with." he says as he motioned the Battle Angels into position. "Alright, Scoots! It's time you put that blade of yers to good use." Boochbeard says indicating the raiper Scootaloo is holding in her tail. "You're gonna have to teach me then. I've never used a sword before." Scootaloo rebutted. "Aye," Boochbeard shook in agreement. "I know you equines are outta yer comfort zone here, but we'll teach ya how to fight like a TRUE pirate, don't worry." "Step 1: Confront that Battle Angel! Everything will come natural to you, from there." Gandry encouraged. Easier said than done, she confronted the Battle Angel before her and got into battle formation. She didn't know what Gandry meant by 'it'll come natural to her, but she's gonna have to fight them in order to go forward and find the way to Equestria. So Scoots did what her instincts told her and ran up to the Battle Angel in front of her and slashed at the Angel mercilessly. Never once did Scootaloo ever spar in Ponyville...but yet, "Wow...that felt...good!" she exclaimed. "You were right, Mr. Gandry! It is coming natural to me!" then she realizes something..."Why is it natural to me?" "We'll explain later. Right now, be on your guard, it's the Angel's turn to attack!" Gandry warned the filly. The little pirate turned around only to get drop-kicked by the Battle Angel, followed by an electrical sensation from a small pistol. Scootaloo felt wounded and dazed from the gun shot. "Beware those Sparkthrowers! That's how guns work in the Spiral." Boochbeard warned. "Sparkthrowers?" Silver Spoon asked while watching the fight. "Aye. They generate a burst of electricity, to stun ye into submission." "Good to know!" Scootaloo moaned regaining the strength to move. But all does not fare well for the filly as the other two Angels surrounded her. "Three against one?!" the orange filly exclaimed in irritation as she glared at the one commanding the Angels. "Are you a man or a coward, Deacon?! "I am not a coward, nor am I a man." he responded blankly. "I am simply a clockwork, as you know. It is all the more necessary to ensure your end. But as the merciless emissary, I shall give you one last chance, girl. Surrender or die. Those are your only choices. "Oh, Deacon." Scootaloo smiled smugly. "There's just one thing you don't know about me. I don't give up oh so easily. I'll have the strength to go on as long as my friends are right by my side." she declared in determination. "If I had a heart, this would be where I die of laughter." Deacon said bluntly. "I'm not quite sure how things are run in Equestria, but in the Spiral, there is no such thing as friendship. You don't make friends, only enemies." "Oh yeah?" she challenged the clockwork. "Yo, Subodai! Are you still with me?" it was then that the horse walked up to one of the Angels. "Until the very end, captain" the horse smirked as he ruthlessly threw a slashing blow on the Battle Angel harming his captain, thereby defeating it. Followed by one other blow on another. "Excellent! One down!" Gandry cheered. "My, my, my, your new friend's full of surprises!" Boochbeard motivated. Unfortunately their cheer was cut short when the Battle Angel he attacked floated up and shot the horse barbarian with an electric bullet from her "Sparkthrower" while the last Battle Angel swiped a hit against Scoots, but the filly dodged all of her attacks. "Nice try, but I learned your tricks" She taunted. "Speaking of games, how about we play for keeps?" Gandry suggested as he reached for something in his pocket. "What do you mean?" The monkey officer then took out a card and handed it to her. "Use this card and attack ze unwounded Battle Angel. It should finish her off. Just raise ze card!" he indicated. She did as the monkey told her and raise the card. The card suddenly glowed to which, she felt a strange increase of endurance, speed, and stamina. It was then, that she finally shouted out to the Angel in front of her, HAR HAR SPLENDID! Ye won't regret this venture, girls," Boochbeard reassured. "Now then let's get the both of you out of those confounded brig. There's piratin' to be done!" he said as he pulled the lever nearby...one problem It's not pulling. Boochbeard struggled to pull the lever, but the darn thing just won't budge."The door! She's urgh jammed!" Boochbeard strained as he finally gave up. "The bulkhead's bent!" "Well NOW what are we suppose to do?" Gandry complained. "Dangit are you saying I'm s-" BOOM! Scootaloo's complaint was cut short when everyone ducked down as a cannon fire blasted the room. As the smoke cleard, everyone looked to see a big gaping hole in Scootaloo's cell. A perfect advantage for an escape route. "How convenient" Silver Spoon quipped. "Look there, the panel's broke free!" Boochbeard inscribed. "We'll free ol' Silver over here, you use that hole to make your way back around to us!" he commanded. She didn't need to be told twice, she ran as fast as she can to find the route back when suddenly, "You, I need help" came a low scratchy voice. Scoots took a closer look and found another prisoner. This prisoner is a completely different horse than what she would usually see in Equestria. This was a brown horse with beating red eyes and a thin black goatee. Instead of four hooves, this horse has two hooves and two hands. The being was wearing a small coned fur hat, a red shirt with steel plated armor, and grey trousers. "Use that lever, get me out of here!" he said in a thick accent. Scootaloo did as the horse says and pulled the lever, releasing him from his cage. "Thank you, young one, I am at your debt.'" the horse bowed. "I am Subodai, I hail from Mooshu. Take me with you and together we shall crush our enemies."" "You're coming with me?" Scootaloo asked resulting in the horse nodding his head yes. "Alright, Subodai, let's get out of here!" to which they ran to make their way back to Boochbeard, Gandry, and Silver Spoon. "Before we go," Subodai stopped her. "That chest over there. It stores my blade, we must get it." with a sigh from Subodai's new captain, the two ran back to the walls and spotted a little chest standing in the back of the room. Subodai opened the chest seeing a whole haul of weapons. He picked up a long and blunt sword known as a dao. He also picked up a long and slim rapier and handed it to his captain. "Take it," he says. "You must defend yourself." "Got it." she nodded as they made a break for it to the entrance where the two pirates and the one filly were waiting. "What took ya so long? We gotta get going!" Boochbeard panted as he and the others ran up the stairs. "Had to pick up an extra friend." Scootaloo explained. Finally the group reached the top of the stairs leading on to the deck of the ship. Compared to messy brig, the deck of the ship was looking the worst for wear. Fire roaring on deck, cannon soot all over the floors, and then...him. "What's this? Boochbeard! Trying to steal my prize, you ruffian?" the group looked to see in front of them just standing by the helm of the ship, a man wearing a plain white mask. He looks important. "Who's he?" Silver Spoon asked the bearded pirate. "Deacon." Boochbeard said glaring at the man. "Spymaster of ze Armada! I think, we're in trouble..." Gandry shook. "Our jailer. Clockwork menace, you will pay for putting us in cages!" Subodai growled, but the said clockwork only looked in stared down at us. "I think not." Deacon declined in a monotone almost droning voice. "The prisoner must NOT be allowed to escape! TAKE THEM!" he raised his cane up high, when suddenly three more clockworks fell down from the sky. These clockworks were MUCH different than Deacon. Just like him, white masks were covering their faces, only difference to them is their feminine physique and behind their backs, a pair of mechanical wings. Immediately Gandry knew what they are. "Battle Angels!" he exclaimed. "They are the Armada's elite warriors!" "Indeed," Deacon mused. "It's high time you bafoons know just who you're trifling with." he says as he motioned the Battle Angels into position. "Alright, Scoots! It's time you put that blade of yers to good use." Boochbeard says indicating the raiper Scootaloo is holding in her tail. "You're gonna have to teach me then. I've never used a sword before." Scootaloo rebutted. "Aye," Boochbeard shook in agreement. "I know you equines are outta yer comfort zone here, but we'll teach ya how to fight like a TRUE pirate, don't worry." "Step 1: Confront that Battle Angel! Everything will come natural to you, from there." Gandry encouraged. Easier said than done, she confronted the Battle Angel before her and got into battle formation. She didn't know what Gandry meant by 'it'll come natural to her, but she's gonna have to fight them in order to go forward and find the way to Equestria. So Scoots did what her instincts told her and ran up to the Battle Angel in front of her and slashed at the Angel mercilessly. Never once did Scootaloo ever spar in Ponyville...but yet, "Wow...that felt...good!" she exclaimed. "You were right, Mr. Gandry! It is coming natural to me!" then she realizes something..."Why is it natural to me?" "We'll explain later. Right now, be on your guard, it's the Angel's turn to attack!" Gandry warned the filly. The little pirate turned around only to get drop-kicked by the Battle Angel, followed by an electrical sensation from a small pistol. Scootaloo felt wounded and dazed from the gun shot. "Beware those Sparkthrowers! That's how guns work in the Spiral." Boochbeard warned. "Sparkthrowers?" Silver Spoon asked while watching the fight. "Aye. They generate a burst of electricity, to stun ye into submission." "Good to know!" Scootaloo moaned regaining the strength to move. But all does not fare well for the filly as the other two Angels surrounded her. "Three against one?!" the orange filly exclaimed in irritation as she glared at the one commanding the Angels. "Are you a man or a coward, Deacon?! "I am not a coward, nor am I a man." he responded blankly. "I am simply a clockwork, as you know. It is all the more necessary to ensure your end. But as the merciless emissary, I shall give you one last chance, girl. Surrender or die. Those are your only choices. "Oh, Deacon." Scootaloo started smugly. "There's just one thing you don't know about me. I don't give up oh so easily. I'll have the strength to go on as long as my friends are right by my side." she declared in determination. "If I had a heart, this would be where I die of laughter." Deacon said bluntly. "I'm not quite sure how things are run in Equestria, but in the Spiral, there is no such thing as friendship. You don't make friends, only enemies." "Oh yeah?" she challenged the clockwork. "Yo, Subodai! Are you still with me?" it was then that the horse walked up to one of the Angels. "Until the very end, captain" the horse smirked as he ruthlessly threw a slashing blow on the Battle Angel harming his captain, thereby defeating it. Followed by one other blow on another. "Excellent! One down!" Gandry cheered. "My, my, my, your new friend's full of surprises!" Boochbeard motivated. Unfortunately their cheer was cut short when the Battle Angel he attacked floated up and shot the horse barbarian with an electric bullet from her "Sparkthrower" while the last Battle Angel swiped a hit against Scoots, but the filly dodged all of her attacks. "Nice try, but I learned your tricks" She taunted. "Speaking of games, how about we play for keeps?" Gandry suggested as he reached for something in his pocket. "What do you mean?" The monkey officer then took out a card and handed it to her. "Use this card and attack ze unwounded Battle Angel. It should finish her off. Just raise ze card!" he indicated. She did as the monkey told her and raise the card. The card suddenly glowed to which, she felt a strange increase of endurance, speed, and stamina. It was then, that she finally shouted out to the Angel in front of her, "MIGHTY CHARGE!" She charged at the unwounded Angel and flipped up. She then does back-flipped and charged at the angel, completely piercing it's armor. She defeated the angel. At the same time, Subodai defeated the Battle Angel before him. They were gone. "Nicely done, pirate!" Boochbeard cheered "Way to go, Scoots!" Silver Spoon cheered. "VICTORY!" hollered Subodai as he held his sword up high. "We did it!" jumped in happiness as she won her first fight. Unfortunately, their celebration was cut short when a certain menacing clockwork spoke up to them. "Not so fast!" Deacon shouted. "Do you dare to defy the might of the Armada?" He then hits the ground with his cane, signaling more Clockwork to appear on the middle of the deck. However, these Clockworks were completely different than what Scootaloo just fought. In fact, they were much larger than what she fought. 4 large Clockworks stood in a perfect V formation aiming their miniature cannons at the team. "Wh-what are those?!" Gandry cried out in shock. "Large...very LARGE," Silver Spoon spoke up in awe. "Surrender! Don't make me destroy you!" Deacon threatened. But what he didn't realize is that it'll take more than four large clockworks to take down Scootaloo. "I can take em! The bigger they are, the harder they fall, right?" she rebutted ready for a fight. "Don't bother." Boochbeard intervened as he pulled out a flare gun. "LADS, FIRE! He then shot a signal flare, signaling the ship across from them. Sounds of pirates were heard from across the ship, where cannons were aimed towards the Armada ship. BOOM! The cannonballs were shot directly at the middle of the deck, destroying the large Clockworks in front of them. "Whoa..." the two fillies looked in awe seeing what transpired. "Impressive, it seems I underestimated you, young pirate." Deacon spoke up. "It seems a friend of mine is right, you WILL be a thorn in our plot. No matter, your 'friends' won't be there to save you next time, you will regret making an enemy out of the Armada. Enjoy your freedom...while it lasts." "I look forward in beating you next time!" Scootaloo challenged the clockwork to which he gave out a chuckle. "I look forward for that day, Firewaker." he said grimly as he took out a pistol and shot a Spark of electricity at a stack of crates behind Boochbeard, thus exploding with Boochbeard taking the fall. The moment the explosion hit, Deacon disappeared at a cloud of smoke. "He is gone!" Gandry gasped. "But he'll be back. Be prepared." Subodai warned. It was then that all eyes were on the wounded pirate. "Boochbeard, are you alright?" Scootaloo asked in concern as Boochbeard managed to get up from the blast. "That blast nearly did me in! I can barley see! Scoots, you'll have to sail us to safe harbor!" he said straining. "I've never steered a ship before." she said insightful. "Don't worry, I'll teach you while I heal ze captain!" Gandry replied. "And don't forget," Silver Spoon reminded the two. "You still owe us an explanation." "Don't worry. We'll explain everything on the ship. Now, lets get off this one before it sinks!" Boochbeard exclaimed as he walked to the rigging. All the others follow his lead and carried on to the rigging of Boochbeard's ship and sailed away. > Scootaloo's Family Tree > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 3: Scootaloo's Family They have finally escaped from the Armada as they see the Erebus sinking down the sky. That's right, the sky. On the deck of Boochbeard's ship, Silver Spoon and Subodai watched as Scootaloo is mastering the basics of steering a ship, while Gandry is treating his captain's wounds. "That's navigation in a nutshell, Scoots! You're a natural!" Boochbeard encouraged as his wounds were finally healing. "And you said you don't know how to steer a ship," Gandry quipped. "I guess steering the ship is almost the same as steering my scooter, in a nutshell." Scootaloo says in realization. "Uh-huh, yeah Scoots is a natural at sailing a ship, yeah."Silver Spoon says dismissively. "So um now that all of that is over, please explain WHAT THE BUCK IS GOING ON HERE!?" she yelled resisting the urge the punch their heads in. "Oh yeah," Scoots says in realization. "Well for starters, I like the name Firewaker," "IS THAT THE ONLY THING YOU THINK ABOUT AT A TIME LIKE THIS?!" Silver Spoon cried out in agitation, as her shark teeth grew back, yes. "Let me finish, Silver." the helmspony said calmly. "I like the name Firewaker, but the question is WHY did Deacon call me that?" "I guess Cheerilee never told ya huh?" Boochbeard said as the filly looked at him in confusion. "What does Ms. Cheerilee have to do with this?" she asked the pirate. Gandry looked at Boochbeard and shook his head, as if it was time for something...a truth? "I think it's time you've learn the truth, Scootaloo" Gandry looked at her in understanding. "We know yer parents, Scoots. In fact we know yer whole family." Boochbeard said getting the little filly's attention. This was a topic she's never expected to meet with. "M-my family?" she shook in shock as she listened intently. Boochbeard nodded in agreement as he began to explain. "Truth be told, Scoots, you're family is with a long line of pirates, a family tree even! And even now, they're still roamin' the skies. They call themselves the Skywaker Pirates, ponies from Equestria who had enough of the Armada's rule and decide to band together and revolt against them." "You mean like a revolution?" Silver Spoon asked as she also listened intently. "Aye, a revolution. This was one of the biggest revolutions that made a great impact to the Spiral, next to the Polarian Wars. The one who started it all was yer mother, Scoots, Stormwaker Thunderblitz, a powerful bringer of storms." "So my mom's the leader of the crew," Scootaloo repeated in understanding. "What's my other family like?" "All yer family have unique powers. The layout of your family is like this: First yer mother, then yer brother, Windwaker Rumble, who comes from yer grandmother's side of the family." "Rumble? That colt with the filly snout?" Silver Spoon asked in curiosity. "I never knew! No one saw him ever since his brother was coming down with the Featherflu," Scootaloo remarked as Gandry shushed the two. "Then came yer grandmother, Waterwaker Ocean Breeze, then yer grandpa, Earthwaker Terra." "You still never answered my question," Scootaloo reminded. "What does Ms. Cheerilee have to do with all of this?" "Because, Scoots, Cheerilee and her brother, Ravenscar are the kids of Earthwaker Terra." yep, another hit of shock went into Scootaloo. "Let me get this straight. Rumble and Cheerilee are my cousins?" she tried to hear them right. "Aye, that's right." Boochbeard continued. "Sad to say, the reason why you haven't seen yer brother, Rumble in quite some time, is because he's been caught and taken to Fort Elena." "Oh no, captured?" Scootaloo said in concern. "Aye, Sad to say. He was one of the few of the crew that got captured and sentenced to life in prison, only thing is, it happened all so recently," "A few?" "Let's just say, the Armada were taken by surprise after they witnessed the Skywaker's powers. Long ago, they prepared as many ships as they can and assaulted their ship, The Majestic, and took in the remaining crew, putting the revolution to a stalemate. "What about my mom?" Scootaloo asked in concern. It was then that Boochbeard looked at her and mourn, and Gandry took off his hat in mourn. It can only mean one thing. "Oh..." she definitely got the picture. "Wait a minute?" Silver Spoon realized one thing. "This whole time you talked about Scoots' mom, but where was her dad in all of this?" "Hey yeah, what about my dad?" "I'd be honest with you, no one knows yer old man. I heard from Thunderblitz back then that he just left her, he never came back ever since." "So he could be fine?" "I can't say for sure. But continuing, the only person who got away from the Armada's clutches, was Lightwaker Cheerilee and Darkwaker Ravenscar, but he's not worth their time." "Why not?" "Because Ravenscar didn't even care about the revolution back then. Even now he doesn't care. The only thing he cares about is plunderin and pillagin like the pirate he is. Meanwhile Cheerilee sailed back to Equestria and shrouded anything regarding the revolution or the Skywaker Pirates, so the Armada wouldn't catch on. I suppose that's when she retired as a teacher and I suppose that's why you know her as Ms. Cheerilee." "She could've at least told me SOMETHING, leaving out the cousin part kinda seemed WRONG don't ya think?" Scootaloo pointed out in frustration. "Don't ye worry. I bet she was waitin' for the right time ta tell ye. Knowin' her she will. She's the kindest pony we've met" Boochbeard replied in assurance. "So to get things straight, Cheerilee is a pirate, Rumble is captured, and the revolution will only end is if all the Skywaker Pirates are dead by the Armada's hand?" "Afraid so. Luckily, me and ze captain came in time before ze clockworks sailed off with you." Scootaloo was looking off to the distance, so much was in her head. "All this time," she whispered. "I always wondered where my mom and dad were. I always looked up to Rainbow Dash as my sister, but...now...I actually have a lead on my family. "That doesn't mean zis Rainbow Dash isn't your sister" Gandry declined. "Aye, your family isn't only the blood you share. It's the bonds you make, a-hand trust me, knowing ye already, you'll make one heck of a bond with yer crewmates." "A pirate is nothing without its loyal crew." Subodai remark. "Ain't that the truth," Boochbeard nodded agreeing. Suddenly, "LAND HO!" Gandry said pointing at a big island with a skull in view. "Welcome to Skull Island, girls, Subodai," Boochbeard said calmly. "Before we go, captain, you must remember, Skull Island is a pirate cesspool. If you wish to fight, you must fight for your life. Are you ready?" Subodai warned his little captain. The filly thought about his offer. If she wants to find her family, she has to become a pirate. Simple enough, her answer is, "Sure am, Subodai." she said determinedly before turning to the two pirates. "Just tell us where to start and we'll be right on it." "You'll start with Captain Avery in Skull Island. He's an old friend of mine. If anyone can help ya start yer journey, he can. "Great, so that just leaves..." Scootaloo said as she and everyone else turned to a certain silver filly, awaiting for her answer. "What?" she asked blissfully unaware of what's going on. "You wanna go back to Equestria don't you?" "More than ever!" "Then answer me this: do you have what it takes to serve under the command of a pirate?" Silver Spoon looks at the group hesitantly. There are pros and cons of becoming a pirate, many many cons. Will she take that chance? Her answer is, "Oh, fine, if it means finding the way back home." she sighed in defeat. Then, it hit her. "But what about those two?" she said pointing at Boochbeard and Gandry. "You two are coming, right?" Scootaloo asked looking at the two in worry. "Sorry girls, we cant. We have our own adventures after all," Boochbeard said apologeticly "But-" "Don't you worry, we'll cross paths again. For now, zis is goodbye!" Gandry said as the three walked off the ship via boardwalk as they reached the island. but not before Scootaloo gave the bearded captain a hug. "Thanks, guys, for telling me about my family." she said to him. "Aye. I'm sure you'll find them," Boochbeard said hugging her. "All right all right, we gotta go, Scoots!" he said as he pushed her off as he took to the helm. "MONKEY, WEIGH ANCHOR, CAST THE SAILS, WE'RE OFF!" he commanded as he Scoots walked the boardwalk and watched the two sail away. "Farewell, girls!" Gandry waved. "Good luck and good hunting!" Boochbeard waved as the ship left the shore. On the island, Silver Spoon and Subodai waved goodbye as Scoots only looked at the ship as it sailed further and further off the shore. "Thanks for everything, guys" she thought...as she snapped back to reality and on to their objective. "Alright, so let's find this Captain Avery!" she said as Subodai started to lead the way. "I know the way, follow me." he said as he took the lead and walked further into shore with the two fillies following him, as the journey begins! > Enter Captain Avery > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 4: Troggy Trouble Meanwhile in Ponyville It was a bright and sunny morning in Ponyville, not one cloud in the sky. The birds were singing, the sun was gleaming down on the small village, and the fillies and colts were galloping merrily to school. With a BING-BANG from the school-bell, all the little foals were walking in their classrooms. Meanwhile in a familiar classroom, the teacher Ms. Cheerilee was checking the attendance as she continued to call out the names of her students. "Pipsqueak?" "Present, Ma'am!" "Piña Colada?" "Here!" "Rainy Feather?" "Here!" "Red June?" "Here!" "Ruby Pinch?" "Present!" "Rumble?" No response. "Rumble?" Still no response, it was then that the teacher looked uneasily. "That's strange." she mumbled. "Where is he? He hasn't been here for a while now. Anyway, Scootaloo?" She continued on her attendance but no response. "Scootaloo?" Still no response. She then turned to the two ponies friend with the absent filly. "Any reason why Scootaloo isn't here, girls?" Cheerilee asked. "We haven't heard from her since last night." Apple Bloom reported uneasily. Cheerilee just shook the uneasy feeling and continued with attendance. "Uh...Shady Daze" "Here!" "Silver Spoon?" No response. "Silver Spoon...?" Still no response. The distressed teacher turned to the royalty of the students. "Anything regarding your friend, Diamond Tiara?" Cheerilee asked the filly in distraught to which she only shrugged in response. "Haven't heard from her since last night." she replied to her teacher. "This is truly strange. So many children absent," she said in frustration. "Are you children certain you haven't ANY of them?" the classroom only nodded and shrugged in disappointment. And Cheerilee only has one question in all. "What's going on? Surely it can't be a coincidence. What am I going to tell the parents about the disappearance of Silver Spoon, Scootaloo, Rumble, and...Archer? Back in Skull Island Scootaloo's P. O. V Everything happened all so fast. One moment I was just practicing my stunts overnight, now without warning, I'm on the adventure of a lifetime with not my friends, but Silver Spoon. At least Diamond Tiara isn't here or I'll TOTALLY lose my mind. Even though she and DT are on the path of redemption, it's gonna be a LOOOOONG path to say the least, apparently now, we have all the time in the world, now...or worlds. Allot has happened in a short amount of time, like finally finding out that my family is made up of pirates. Only problem is, my mom is dead and my dad just...disappeared. Once more, I found out that my friend is my cousin, and my teacher is my stepsister. It's just TOO much to take in, but I'm sure I'll learn more about my family and this...revolution with the Armada. Third Person P. O. V. Starting off their adventure after escaping that accursed Armada ship, Scootaloo, and Silver Spoon followed their newest crewmate, Subodai to the doors of a mansion overseeing all of the Skull Island Fortress. Subodai knocked the door and sure enough a voice called them in. They opened the door viewing a cluttered room with various antiques and knickknacks. These items must be artifacts from the worlds of the Spiral. Standing in front of the group came an old man, in his possible 50's. The brown haired man was wearing a black triconed hat with a feather laying on it, a long emerald golden-trimmed trench-coat, black trousers and gentleman's stockings and shoes, and a white parrot resting on his shoulders. This man was CLEARLY an important one at best. "Are you Captain Avery?" Scootaloo asked the old pirate. "That I am dear," he responded back answering her question. "How may I help you all?" "Well you see," she began. "We kinda escaped from the Armada, and a friend of mine, Boochbeard told me you would help out pirates in need of safety from the Armada." "Oh, Boochbeard, that old so an' so," Avery sighed in exasperation. "So, you're on the run from the Armada are you?" "Yes. We need help." Subodai implied. "Unfortunately, Boochbeard left out one bit of detail regarding my services," Avery looked down at them "I run a pirate haven here, not a charity. If you want me to hide you from the Armada, You'll have to work for it." "Pirates, there's always a catch." Silver Spoon mumbled, earning a glare from Subodai "We will help any way possible, Avery." he says. "Yeah! What do we do?" Scootaloo says elated in determination. "One of my more...willful crewmen, a buccaneer named Fin stole my Jade Amulet from me. I need it back." he explained hesitantly. "Sounds easy enough!" Silver Spoon says in relief. However, there's more. "I wish I could say the same, But Fin fled to Skull Mountain and roused the Troggies. Now, they're bombarding us." Avery said as Scootaloo and Subodai glared once more at the little filly. "What?" she said in confusion. "You just HAD to say something didn't you?" Scootaloo muttered in complete agitation. "Now, now, it's quite alright. If you can hold off the Armada, I'm sure you can hold off a few mere Troggies. Now then, to get my amulet back, you'll have to report to Chief Gunner Rigby at the West Bastion, he'll lead you to Skull Island." Avery encouraged. "He's got a point." Scootaloo said. "Remind me again why we're even doing this hunt?" Silver Spoon grimaced. "Simple, if you want to be a pirate, you'll need a ship. Do this right and I'll give you one, you have my word and honor." Avery explained as he reached out his hand. "Do we have an accord?" "...A what?" Scootaloo asked in confusion. "My father used to play one." Silver Spoon implied unaware of what Avery is talking about. "...Really?" Avery sighed in disbelief. "No, not accordion ACCORD. As in 'do we have a deal?" "Ohhhhhhhhhhh..." the two fillies droned in understanding. "Yeah we have an accordion!" Scootaloo exclaimed. "Accord" Avery corrected. "Whatever." and then they shook hands on it! (well...they shook hand and hoof on it.) "Now, one least thing." Avery interjected. "Surely Boochbeard has taught you the ol' card attack method, yes?" "He did. What about it?" Scootaloo retorted. "Well, before you could brave Skull Mountain, you must receive a card of your own school," Avery then took out five cards, each one carrying different attack techniques. "Five classes in total." Avery explained. "Which class are you?" "Classes?" the little filly then turned to their silent crewman. "You never told us there were classes." "You never asked." he said bluntly, resulting in the little filly shedding a single drop of sweat from the back of her mane. "Now, now, before you take things out of hand, I will do the honors explaining you your classes." Avery intervened as he took showed the fillies the flags of the schools. "You see young ones, there are five classes, that many pirates use to fight their enemies. Buccaneers are pirates that rely entirely on their strength and brute force to fight their way through victory. Musketeers are pirates who let only their guns do the talking, those who specialize in strategies in cannons and sharpshooting. Privateers are pirates who rally up their team to the brink of victory. And it's not only pirates that are Privateers, but the Spiral's greatest generals lead their teams to success. Swashbucklers are pirates and ninjas who would rely on speed, cunning, and agility to fight their enemies. Knowing the speed and agility of many other pegasai, I strongly recommend this class. And finally, Witchdoctors. They are pirates who would use only the power of hoodoo and magic to defeat their enemies." While explaining, he also showed Scoots the school symbols. Buccaneer Symbol: A huge blue sword crossed behind a red pirate flag. Musketeer Symbol: An orange gun fuming in green smoke in the barrel of the gun. Privateer Symbol: A yellow telescope crossed behind a blue ship wheel. Swashbuckler Symbol: A purple dagger crossed behind a gold bloom. Witchdoctor Symbol: A green voodoo doll stabbed with three purple pins. "I am Buccaneer." Subodai replied as he raised his sword up as a mark of his brute strength and fearsome intimidation. "So there you have it, pirate." Avery inscribed. "Five classes, which class are you?. Buccaneer, Musketeer, Privateer, Swashbuckler, and Witchdoctor...hmm. Some interesting classes, but I AM known for my speed and agility. So if there's one class that's perfect for me, it has to be...yes! I know just what class. "I choose Swashbuckler." was the one thing she said. "Splendid!" Avery beamed as all attention then turned to a certain quite and silver filly. "What?" she asked nervously. "And what'll be your class, my dear?" Avery asked her. The filly was all but hesitant on which class she needs to be. She just didn't know. So it was then that she pattered out her decision...to which she didn't have. "Can you come back to me on that later? I don't know what class is best for me." she inscribed nervously. "It's fine, dear. It's always difficult to figure out which class you fit in, on the first day. I'm sure you'll find your true calling soon. For now, my amulet?" Avery encouraged hastily reminding them about their quest. "Oh yeah!" Scootaloo exclaimed completely forgetting the task at hand."If there isn't anything else, Subodai, Silver Spoon, let's go!" Avery then gives the new Swashbuckler her new card, Sneak Attack, as well as a compass and finally, Silver Spoon and Subodai followed their captain out and leading to Skull Mountain. "Good luck! Remember to bring it back to me!" Avery yelled from afar. "And don't you DARE replace it with a fake! It happens all the time, trust me, I know!" > Troggy Trouble > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Previously on Pirate's Life for Scoots: Buccaneer, Musketeer, Privateer, Swashbuckler, and Witchdoctor...hmm. Some interesting classes, but I AM known for my speed and agility. So if there's one class that's perfect for me, it has to be...yes! I know just what class. "I choose Swashbuckler." was the one thing she said. "Splendid!" Avery beamed as all attention then turned to a certain quite and silver filly. "What?" she asked nervously. "And what'll be your class, my dear?" Avery asked her. The filly was all but hesitant on which class she needs to be. She just didn't know. So it was then that she pattered out her decision...to which she didn't have. "Can you come back to me on that later? I don't know what class is best for me." she inscribed nervously. "It's fine, dear. It's always difficult to figure out which class you fit in, on the first day. I'm sure you'll find your true calling soon. For now, my amulet?" Avery encouraged hastily reminding them about their quest. "Oh yeah!" Scootaloo exclaimed completely forgetting the task at hand."If there isn't anything else, Subodai, Silver Spoon, let's go!" Avery then gives the new Swashbuckler her new card, Sneak Attack, as well as a compass and finally, Silver Spoon and Subodai followed their captain out and leading to Skull Mountain. "Good luck! Remember to bring it back to me!" Avery yelled from afar. "And don't you DARE replace it with a fake! It happens all the time, trust me, I know!" Chapter 5: Troggy Trouble Exiting Avery's office, our heroes took the advantage and looked to the beautiful fortress. It seems tropical to say the least, but there was one mysterious pillar that caught Silver Spoon's eyes. "Hey uh...Subodai is it? What's that down there?" she asked looking at the pillar. "It is a Life Fountain. It will heal us when we are injured." he explained. "Well that's definitely useful when we get hurt." their captain said as she looked upon the compass. "So according to the compass, Skull Island should be over there. That's West, right?" "It does not feel right to me. Over there is west." Subodai said, pointing the other direction. He then swiped the compass off his captain's hoof and declared it 'garbage' "Skull Mountain should be over there," Subodai says as he leads the two fillies to the bastion with the fancy velveted docks. They look like they were newly constructed. "Now hold yer horses there, pirates!" cried someone as our heroes were spotted a pelican running up to them. "And just where do ye think you're going?" the pelican asked crediously. "Skull Mountain. And don't tell us we won't make it. I'm su-" "I couldn't care less if you fillies want to face yer dooms trying stop those monstrous Troggies," the pelican yelled abruptly. "The only thing that concerns me is that if ye want ta go to Skull Mountain, YER GOING THE WRONG WAY!" "Stop us all you'd like ya old geezer, it's our only way to get b-excuse me what?" Silver Spoon was taken aback by the pelican's claim. "Skull Mountain's over there, ladies." he said pointing to the opposite bastion...aka the bastion Scootaloo claimed as West. It was then that the two fillies glared at the horse barbarian. "What?" he asked cluelessly. "You almost put us in the wrong direction, what do you you think?" Silver Spoon moaned as she took the lead and went to bastion where the pelican pointed. Scootaloo followed and Subodai... "Wh-where are you going?" Scootaloo asked the horse going the other way. Subodai was...taken aback to where the he was going. "This isn't to Skull Island?" he asked. "THE PELICAN JUST SHOWED US THE WAY TWO SECONDS AGO, ARE YOU SERIOUS?!" The two fillies shouted in unison...oh hey they grew shark teeth too. "Silver Spoon, drag him so he wouldn't get lost." Scootaloo ordered. "I AM NO CHILD, I DO NOT GET LOST!" "YOU JUST GOT LOST THREE SECONDS AGO!" Finally, they went west and to the west bastion. As they approached the bastion, they soon met with a round man, manning the cannons into a forest. Then suddenly A BARREL came hurdling towards the Gunner! "HIT THE DECK!" The man yelled as everyone dropped to the ground embracing impact. BOOM! the barrel exploded causing a major crater in the center of the bastion. "Ahoy there! Keep yer head down if ya ain't willin' ta get blown up! Blasted Troggies. They've gone mad, they have!" the round man greeted "Chief Gunner Rigby, I presume?" Silver Spoon asked. "Aye that's me." "Don't worry, Avery sent us to help." Scootaloo saluted. "Ya want to help? We need to stop this bonbardment! Go find Bonnie Anne!" Rigby said opening the gate. "She went across the bridge to teach those savages a lesson. You'll do more good, there!" "Thanks! We're on the case." Scootaloo says as she led her pirate crew across the bridge an into Skull Mountain. o0o "Finally. I thought we would never get on track. Thanks to our 'faithful navigator' over here." Silver Spoon taunted glaring at Subodai, as our heroes reached a jungle clearing. "SHUT UP!" The horse barbarian hissed. "Knock it off, you two, we've made it to Skull Mountain. Now all that's left is to find this Bonnie Anne person." Scootaloo intervened, as she went off further into the jungle. Sure enough, she found large anthromorphic fox. The fox was wearing a clear white blouse and a red scarf with a matching red skirt and brown boots and on top of her head, a brown bandana. Finally the panting fox appears to be carring a large musket. "Excuse me, miss, have you seen a Bonnie Anne around here?" Scootaloo asked the tired fox. "Aye...that be me...what can...I do...ye for...?" the fox panted. "We're here to help fight out those Troggies." Scootaloo says as the fox began to rise up and regained composure. "I'm guessing Avery sent ye? Good, that Fin, he's a wily one, I tell ye. He roused up those Troggies till they're mad as badgers!" "How are they firing back at you? It doesn't really look like those Troggies have much to work with." Silver Spoon asked curiously. "They didn't. Those slimy devils raided us last night, they took half our powder stores, now they're fligin' it back to town!" Bonnie explained. "We're tryin' ta fight back, but there's too many of them! Ye want ta help? Soften them up a bit, and I'll help ya find Fin. Report to Lieutenent Smollet, when yer done!" "Right, we're on the case!" Scootaloo said as she ran off by herself, leaving Scootaloo and Silver Spoon. "That's yer captain?" Bonnie Anne asked. "Yep." Silver Spoon replied. "Talk about enthusiasm." "You have no idea." o0o Soon enough, the three pirates shoved off to the locations of the Troggies. Soon enough, they have reached a clearing filled with of anthromorphic, tribal frogs running around like maniacs and firing barrels out to the court. Avoiding contact from them, the three hid behind a bush and discussed their plans. "Are those the Troggies?" Scootaloo whispered. "Yes. Draw your blade and prepare for battle." Subodai whispered. "What should I do?" Silver Spoon asked in quiet. "Once we defeat them, report to Smollet. But be discreet. They must not find us. But, if they see you, we'll all be captured. Understand? "Understood." "Good. Now, TO BATTLE!" Subodai cried out as he revealed himself and charged at the Troggies. "LET'S DO THIS!" Scootaloo yelled , following Subodai's lead. "So much for being discreet..." Silver Spoon sighed, as she sweatdropped. "Eep, eep, oi!" a Troggy yelled as he and his pack got into position. "Let's do this! SNEAK ATTACK!" Scootaloo yelled as she practically disappeared out of thin air. The Troggies looked around in confusion. Where did she go? They have found their answer when suddenly, out of nowhere, Scootaloo reappeared behind them and striked one of the Troggies, not even giving it a chance to attack. "Op!" the Troggy leader yelled as he began to lash at Scootaloo, but she blocked his attacks easily. Revealing his blind spot, Subodai advanced and lunged at the Troggy leader, only for the Trogg to dodge and he reacted by throwing his leafy shield. "EEP EEP OOOOOOP!" The Troggy yelled. Subodai was just about the ssclice the shield down, considering it's weak structure, but instead the shield only flew back and attack Subodai behind, Almost like a boomerang. "A boomerang like shield. I bore those tricks. "Eep, Arp, Oh, Ep, Op!" the Troggy only babbled. "Enough of this sensless babbling! TREMOR!" Subodai yelled as suddenly a piece of ground suddenly revolved up. Subodai only kicked the rubble, striking the Troggy unconcious. "Who-hoa! Nice one, Subodai!" Scootaloo beamed all so starry-eyed as she finished off a remaining Troggy. "Naturally, Captain." Subodai smirked as he watched a Troggy hunter nearing his captain. Scootaloo saw it near her, and she only stabbed it. As of now, all Troggies were gone. Seeing the Troggies gone, and watching the others run away in fear, Silver Spoon discreetly sneaked out of her hiding spot and ran back to the jungle clearing. Meanwhile with the two, "And that's that." Scootaloo sighed. "Hopefully Silver Spoon reported to this Smollet person." "Already did." Silver Spoon said as she, Bonnie Anne and a rotund person (whom Scoots assumed to be Smollet) made their way to them. "Smartly done, pirate. With your crew on our side, we may actually have a fighting chance." Smollet replied. "Well done indeed, yer really good to have around for a fight. For a filly," Bonnie Anne said, earning a glare from the orange filly. "What's THAT supposed to mean?" she hissed. "Anyway, I said I'll help ye find Fin, an' I'm a girl of me word. Don't suppose ye have room for another on yer crew, captain?" Bonnie Anne humbly requested. "Of course, the more the merrier! Welcome to the crew Bonnie!" "I'm happy for you, Anne, but remember there is still business to be done," intervened Smollet. "Listen up: the Troggies are using three great slingshots to attack the bastion. Our cannons could destroy them, but the farthest slingshot is out of range, and our men can't see an inch in this jungle." "So what do we do?" Scootaloo asked. "Scout the forest and mark the location of the two slingshots for our men to locate," Smollet ordered as he gave Scootaloo the map of the forest. "Once you are done, find the third one and set off the powder kegs they're flinging to the island and destroy it. Report back when you're done." "Sounds like a plan. Let's go guys!" Scootaloo ordered as the three pirates and their newest crewmate, Bonnie Anne, scouted out the landmark to find the slingshots. They found the first one: no Troggies, and marked it on the map. The second slingshot had one Troggy manning the powder keg. So they quietly marked the location, and headed off to find the third one. And finally the third one, to which it had a whole band of Troggies and a whole bunch of powder kegs with them. Fortunately, Subodai knew what to do. "To hell with you, amphibian scum," he growled as he took out a match and lit the fuse. It was then that the crew quickly QUICKLY ran away from the site. "HIT THE DECK!" Silver Spoon yelled bracing for impact. BOOM! An explosion erupted in the clearing, leaving a crater of soot in replace of the slingshot...and the Troggy. "I love a good smell of gunbowder in the morning." Bonnie Anne sighed. "Now then, let's report back to Smollet. I'm sure he knows it is us who made the explosion." Subodai says as they went back to Smollet for their report. "I heard the explosion. I take it the mission was a success?" Smollet presumed. "All barrels taken care of, sir. And here's the mapped location right here." Bonnie Anne said as she handed the map to Smollet. "Excellent work! Skull Island is safe. Now that the bonbardment is taken care of, we can get to work on bringing Avery his bauble back" Smollet said. "I sent two of my best men, Livsey, and Shepard to find the Amulet. They haven't been heard from in a while. Go up the trail and find any traces of Livsey or Shepard. IF they're alive, they can help you find Fin." "IF they're alive, that's reassuring..." Bonnie Anne moaned as the crew casted off further into the forest. Once they reached the trail up, "You there, help!" cried a voice. If there was anything that Scootaloo has learned anything in Equestria, it was to help those in need. She did what her insticts told her and searched for the cry for help, only to find a frog pirate trapped in a wooden cage. "Aww, hey there, little fellah!" Silver Spoon squealed. "You need help getting out?" "WHAT THE HELL DO YA THINK I AM A DOG?! JUST GET ME OUTTA HERE!" The frog barked at the filly with actual shark's teeth. "Calm down, dude I was just playing around," Scootaloo chuckled. "Maybe you can help us, little guy. Do you know anyone named Livsey or Shepard?" "You can look no further, lass. The names Livsey E. Froggert at your service" the frog said bowing to the captain. "Well that's good. Smollet sent us to look for you and Shepard." said Bonnie Anne. "Smollet sent ye? Good, I think I know where Fin is, but he ain't alone. I saw a ship docked up the mountain a while ago, a Cutthroat ship by the looks of it and they've set up camp up there." "A what?" Silver Spoon asked. "Cutthroats, captain. They're dangerous shark pirates, Fin must've called them here while we were busy with the Troggies," Bonnie Anne explained. "Aye, but when we found them, they found us. The sharks attacked us and I've been trapped in here ever since." "And Shepard?" Subodai persued. "Didn't see him. We got seperated during the attack." Livsey explained as he contunied to try to break the lock opened. No dice. "UGGHH I can't get the lock opened. Maybe if you get the the key from the T-" "You are just too weak." Subodai inturrepted bluntly. "What's that supposed to mean?" Livsey retorted. "It is simply bamboo. It's structure is think, but it can be easily cut down with the proper blade." "And I suppose you can put your money where your mouth is, and cut the cage down?" challenged the frog. SLASH! At a blink of an eye, Subodai stroked the cage, to which it was chopped into little pieces. Livsey was free. "Done." "NEXT TIME GIVE BE A CHANCE TO DUCK! YA ALMOST CHOPPED MY HEAD IN TWO!" Yelled Livsey in rage. "Anyway, now that I'm free, we can get to finding Fin. If we sneak past the Cutthroats, we can find some clues to finding Fin." "Their camp is up the trail, right? Let's head up there" Scootaloo said, anxious for some action. At the Captain's orders, the crew and Livsey snook past the Troggies and went up the hill. In their view, they found a perfect view of a giant skull. In the captain's sight she had also noticed is a campsite with a band of sharks guarding the camp. "There's Skull Mountain. I'm not afraid." Subodai said readying his blade to battle. "Me neither," Scootaloo replied determinely. "I am." Silver Spoon muttered meekly. "You don't count." "EXCUSE ME?" "Break it up you two," intervened Bonnie Anne, breaking up the fight. "Now then, there are the Cutthroats. Now then, why don't we give them a warm w-" "Let's not! We need to find Fin, not draw attention on us!" Livsey intervened. "How about this:" he said turning to Bonnie. "You, Fox, you're good with a rifle aren't you? Why not you just snipe them from the bushes. We need to stay hidden, at all cost." "The bush is all the way near the cave. How are we gonna get there without one of those buggers spotting us?" Bonnie Anne asked. "Leave that to me." Scootaloo said as she...smeared mud all over her face. Everyone looked at the filly in confusion. "Uh...captain, ye got a little..." Bonnie Anne said motioning that she has dirt all over her face. "It's part of my plan. I walk up and distract them as... buyer or an ally, while you guys make a break for it to the bush, and that is where Bonnie takes her shot and blast those Cutthroats down, pretty neat huh? I read it in a Daring Doo book, Those books really are interesting, if you ask me." "...Daring...who?" "You're certain it will work?" Subodai asked. "I'm certain it'll work." Scootaloo retorted. "It's crazy enough TO work. We're countin' on you, pirate." Livsey said. "Once I get the conversation in motion, you guys sneak by and head to the bush. Wish me luck." she said as she trotted up to the Cutthroats, who unfortunately unsheathed their swords and aimed it at her, without a second glance. "Who the blazes are you?!" the Cutthroat ordered threatningly. "Oi, no need to be alarmed, gents. I be a business venturer sent by Fin," Scootaloo said in a rather distinquishing pit-cockney accent. It was then that the Cutthroats lowered their weapons. "You're the buyer? No offense but I kinda expected you ta be...taller." "I get that allot, mate no worries. To answer yer question, yes I'm the buyer.A little birdie told me, that you have something that belongs to the proprietor of Skull Island. I couldn't possibly turn that deal away." While the plan was in action and Scootaloo commuted with the Cutthroats, Bonnie, Subodai, Silver Spoon and Livsey sneaked past them. "Aye. Fin told us he scored Avery's Jade Amulet. Clearly, Avery stopped the search after we roughed up two suckers looking for it." another Cutthroat explained. "Suckers you say? And who might those gents be?" Scootaloo asked probing for answers. "A dog and a toad. Ehh what's their name? Livsey and Shepard, I think." BANG! The sound of a gunshot was heard, making the Cutthroats ready their weapons. "What was that?" the Cutthroat leader barked. "I don't see anythin'! Ed you see anyone here?" second Cutthroat said motioning his brother. No response. "Ed?" it was then that the so called 'Ed' dropped down to the ground. "Oi, Ed! You OK?" the Cutthroat leader asked. he's not moving, no flinch, no nothing. He's dead. "SOMEONE KILLED ED!" the second Cutthroat yelled preparing for battle. "Show yourself, coward!" BANG! Another gunshot. erupted the camp shooting down the second Cutthroat. "Brutis! He was just a guppy, you bastards! HE WAS JUST A GUPPY!" the leader roared. "Buyer, did ya s-" Scootaloo suddenly stabbed the leader in the chest, putting him down. "Sorry, but I'll give Fin my regards once we get back the amulet from him. ALL CLEAR GUYS!" Scootaloo yelled signaling her crew out of their hiding spots. "Guess yer plan really worked, captain." Bonnie Anne said. "Was there any doubt?" She scoffed. "Good work, pirate." Livsey said appearing to the group. "During yer little diversion, I found this note. Listen to this:" "Our buyer won't be here for a while. I'll be in the temple. If the buyer arrives, bring him to me. The temple entrance is in the Skull Cave ~Fin" "So, Fin's in there?" Silver Spoon said as everyone turned to the Skull Cave. "Yes. There's no turning back now, captain. Into the cave." Subodai said. "Maybe Shepard's in there. You guys check inside the cave, I gotta report back to Smollet." Livsey said running back to Smollet. "Whelp, you heard the horse. Into the cave! Let's get Fin!" Scootaloo said as she and her crew ran in the Skull Cave, awaiting for the danger that they will soon face. > Into the Skull Cave > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Previously on Pirate's Life for Scoots: "Good work, pirate." Livsey said appearing to the group. "During yer little diversion, I found this note. Listen to this:" "Our buyer won't be here for a while. I'll be in the temple. If the buyer arrives, bring him to me. The temple entrance is in the Skull Cave ~Fin" "So, Fin's in there?" Silver Spoon said as everyone turned to the Skull Cave. "Yes. There's no turning back now, captain. Into the cave." Subodai said. "Maybe Shepard's in there. You guys check inside the cave, I gotta report back to Smollet." Livsey said running back to Smollet. "Whelp, you heard the horse. Into the cave! Let's get Fin!" Scootaloo said as she and her crew ran in the Skull Cave, awaiting for the danger that they will soon face. Chapter 6: Into the Skull Cave After defending Skull Island from the Troggy bombardment in the jungles of Skull Mountain, Scootaloo and her crew's search for the Jade Amulet has led them into the depts Skull Cave to continue their search for Fin. As they traversed through the cave, they found another path. "Over here, captain! behind the waterfall!" Bonnie Anne yelled finding the path. "Looks like we'll have top cut our way through. "Leave that to me." Subodai said as he cut the vines down like it was nothing, revealing the next room. "Well that was easy." Bonnie quipped. "Alright, let's press on." as they entered the next room. Upon the next room, a big gaping wall on the sides. "We can use that wall as a path back to the fort." Subodai implied, as they entered the next room. o0o They continued on, breaking through the stone door, and pressed through the temple corridor. When they entered the temple, they noticed that the entire place is flooded and swarming with crocodile creatures. "Geez, what's with all the water? I know Cutthroats are barbarians and all, but they should AT LEASTunderstand the means of proper plumber" Silver Spoon complained. "You've been hanging around Rarity, too much, you know?" Scootaloo grumbled. "Would you blame me? She makes fantastic tea!" "Careful, girls! This cave is filled with Crocogators." Bonnie Anne warned. "If you keep to the walls, you will not be noticed." Subodai warned. "Noted." Scootaloo said as she and the crew kept to the walls to avoid any Crocogator confrontation. After sneaking past both Crocogators AND Cutthroats, our heroes found a path leading on to a big room. The door over there must lead to where Fin is. Only problem is, "The water's too steep here, captain. We'll never make it." said Bonnie in concern. "Well, we've got to find some way over there. Fin could be over there." Scootaloo said anxious. "He must not escape." Subodai growled. "You there, over here!" came a completely different voice. The band look and saw the voice coming from a dog pirate hiding in the corner. "Sargent Shepard?" Scootaloo asked the dog. "Aye that's me, what's it to ya?" Shepard hissed. "Yer pal Livsey sent us in here to find Fin, we may think he's somewhere in Skull Cave" Bonnie explained to which Shepard sighed in relief. "Livsey sent ye? Good. After me and Livsey split up, I made my way here, watchin' and listenin'. You were right on looking here, lass. Fin's across the way in his throne room. But, the girl's right, you'll never make it through these rough waters. The only way you'll make it to Fin is to drain this place." "How did this place get flooded anyway? Did Fin do this?" Silver Spoon asked. "It ain't him that did this." Shepard said bluntly. "You can thank those blasted Troggies for this. They love their water, so they took refuge here in Skull Cave and flooded it." "Then, just like you said, we'll just have to drain this place. But how?" Scootaloo said in perplex. "There's a shrine at the end of the tunnels. Go to the shrine, and press the three keystones on the three statues. Once you press them, the water will be flushed, and the whole place will be drained." Shepard explained. "But knowing those ridiculous Troggs, they will not leave their shrine unguarded." Subodai retorted. "Right you are, lad. Hoards of those buggers are holed up in there, but we'll get to that later. Right now, you'll need to get INTO the shrine first, it's locked up tight. I overheard the Cutthroats talking, one of them has the key. "Then, we can give those Cutthroats a proper...uh..what was it again?" Scootaloo asked sarcastically. "Welcome?" Bonnie answered, but not the right answer. "Beating. Let's give those Cutthroats a rightful beating." Scootaloo said as she galloped to where the Cutthroats were. "The heck was that about?" Silver Spoon asked looking at her captain in confusion. o0o After a very suspenseful(tedious) search for the key to the shrine, our heroes have found it. It was then that they braved the rest of the tunnel and found a huge door at the end of the hall. "It's the only door in the cave. Pretty clear that it's the shrine. So, let's get in there." Scootaloo said determinedly. Nodding their heads, they placed the key in the hole and unlocked the chamber door. The moment they entered the shrine, they were all welcomed by Troggies. "Eep, Oop, Oop, Aaah!" yelled the chief. "I grow tired of these fools." Subodai sighed. "To the keystones, now!" While he held off the Troggies, Bonnie, Scootaloo, and Silver Spoon scattered the shrine to press the keystones on the temple statuses. Though of course, they need to fight Troggies on the way. Scootaloo took to the center rout to the statue in the back of the room. She was just about to press the keystone on the statue, but... "AHHHH!" the Troggie Chief yelled as casted a spell and projected magical energy towards Scootaloo, but she successfully blocked the upcoming attack giving Subodai the perfect opportunity to beat the Troggy down. "You're good with that timing!" she complimented the horse barbarian "Always aim to please, Captain." Subodai smiled as he pressed the keystone. Scootaloo looked to see the pillar in the middle of the room began to sink down. "Ahh, so that's how the temple will drain. I get it!" Scootaloo yelled in realization. It was at that moment the pillar lowered again. Someone must of pressed the keystone. It was Silver Spoon. She pressed the left keystones. And finally after a struggle with the Troggies, Bonnie pressed the final keystone lowering the drain plug to the very bottom. Soon enough, the entire room has been COMPLETELY drained of water, and if possible, the entire temple as well. "Eep, opp, ep, op!" the Troggy leader yelled as he then...jumped down the drain, as well as the...other Troggies? Leaving the crew bottled with confusion. "Th-they just jumped down the hole." Bonnie Anne insinuated sweat dropping showing her confusion. "Troggies are mysterious creatures..." Subodai muttered. "Alright, we've gotten the cave drained, let's head back to Shepard." Bonnie Anne said as everyone regained from their confusion, and exited the now drained shrine. o0o "Well, I'll be, you did it! The water's passable now! I know I should report back to Smollet, but first I'm headin' with you. Fin and I have some unfinished business to attend to." Shepard said as the group returned back to the dog in question, seeing the entrance passable and the water blocking the way disappeared. "So does that mean you'll join my crew?!" Scootaloo looked at the pirate gleaming with hope. Shepard put her question into thought and Scootaloo looked at him hoping his answer was yes. Unfortunately his answer was... "Nah, I think I'll pass." Shepard said casually. "DAWW!" Scootaloo said falling to the ground face down. It seems she wanted him to be apart of the crew so much. Her comrades only looked at her in disapproval, and shook their heads in unison. "Our captain everybody..." Silver Spoon grimaced shedding a tear of sweat from behind her head. As the strange behavior of their captain concluded, Subodai dragged her as everyone prepared for the worst and journeyed into the cave throne room. Once they've met with the inside of the throne room, they've noticed their feet drenched with water. It seems the temple didn't drain out the throne room. They've also met with all but darkness, all except one ominous green object glowing in the center of the room. "That must be the amulet." Scootaloo said regaining composure and back on her feet. "So you're the one who's been taking down my men, huh? Real wimps to think they would be beaten by a little pony," came a dark voice. The group looked around and noticed in front of them came more Cutthroats. However, one of them looked different from the rest: This Cutthroat was a rather greenish color compared to the Cutthroats' blue color. had tattoos all over his arms and back. The Cutthroat was wearing a jet black T-shirt and black buckles and straps and metal braces on his arms. He also wears dark grey trousers and black boots for his flippers. The crew couldn't make out the Cutthroat's eyes because of his black shady goggles covering them. "Are you Fin?" Silver Spoon asked the shady Cutthroat. "Names Fin Dorsal. And you made three mistakes, pirates." Fin said coldly. "first, you took the job. Second, you didn't even bring an army. And last? Don't fight me in the dark. The dark is where I shine." Fin then readied his weapons which consist on two chakrams and he then motioned his men to charge. "Hold yer ground, pirate, Cutthroats are bullies and cowards, leave them to us. Beat their leader and the rest will turn tail. So get Fin!" Shepard said as he charged into battle and fought back against most of the Cutthroats. Silver Spoon stayed behind for safety, and Subodai and Bonnie Anne charged into battle while their captain charged straight to Fin. With her blade at hand, she was locked on into battle: her rapier vs Fin's chakrams. The two captains were in a deadly fight of blades, one of them would try to swing while the other would block. Unfortunately for Scoots, it isn't easy keeping up with Fin's speed. She parried the blow of Fin's attacks, but he would only flail his arms ferociously to land a hit. "Don't think you'll win this, pirate. Just give up and I'll go easy on you," Fin says as the two locked their blades together. "Get real, Fin. I won't give up so easily." Scootaloo said as she released herself from the lock, and landed a small blow from her blade on Fin's snout. Grunting in pain, Fin shooked it off and countered her hit with a cut on the cheek as well. "Toughé," Scootaloo muttered as the battle continued. Silver Spoon's P. O. V. Meanwhile with Silver Spoon, she was watching the whole fight erupt throughout all of the throne room. Either Scootaloo was battling Fin or the others fighting off against the Cutthroats. She was wondering what can she do? "This is seriously bogus. Everyone's fighting and I can't even do anything." she sighed. "I don't have a sword, or gun, or nothing. What if I'm not so useful in the group?" suddenly a bright green glowed was reflected on the silver filly's glasses. She looked up and spotted the Jade Amulet just in the center of the battle. "That's it!" she whispered as her eyes are now locked on to the Jade Amulet. Maybe she could take the Jade Amulet without anyone noticing. Looking around hoping no one was looking, she tip-toed quietly to the pedestal keeping the Jade Amulet while everyone was fighting. Carefully she tried to take it without making anyone hearing her, though it would I would highly doubt anyone would hear her throughout the clattering of blades and the gunshots of Anne's muskets. Unfortunately in just inches away from the amulet... "HEY! THAT PONY IS TAKIN' THE AMULET!" One of the Cutthroats said. The room suddenly turned quiet and everyone's eyes were on the lone filly. Suddenly the unexpected happened; all the Cutthroats except Fin charged at the silver filly in an attempt to get the amulet. Soon enough they were all leaping up at her. "GAHHHHHHH!" The scared stiff silver filly cried out, closing her eyes embracing for impact...it didn't come. In fact, she opened her and noticed that almost all the Cutthroats were on the floor, unconscious. Some that weren't were far injured to go any further. "Are you OK?" A voice called out. Silver Spoon looked up and noticed Subodai holding his hand out. This is a first... Someone's actually standing up to me, not even Diamond Tiara would do anything for me...Should I be grateful? "Y-yes I'm fine, thank you." Silver Spoon says as she took Subodai's hand and picked herself up. "We can't get the Jade Amulet. Not with all of these Cutthroats around. Just stay here and wait until Fin is taken care of." Subodai warned, to which she shook her head in understanding. "Someone...saved me?" Scootaloo's P. O. V. Meanwhile the small little captain was STILL holding her own out again's Fin. The two panted in exhaustion, both her and Fin. "You're *pants* good, for a little girl." Fin said completely out of breath from their little struggle. "You're *pants* not too bad, yourself, for a dumb Cutthroat." Scootaloo retorted out of breath as well. "But don't think I'm finished yet. I have just one other trick to show you. It's time you learn the true meaning of the word, danger." Fin growled as suddenly the unthinkable happened. Fin...suddenly sank? He sank and sank down the shallow water IN FOOT LENGTH MIND YOU. Scootaloo scanned the area looking for Fin, it was as if he left the battle. "Pirate, whatever you do don't move!" Shepard warned. "He just sank in the water, what am I supposed to do?!" Scootaloo retorted in shock. "Just, don't move, OK?! It's one of Fin's special attacks! You should know yer shark history, one chomp and you'll lose yer frontal lobe!" Shepard warned as everyone took caution and stayed in their position. It was dangerously quiet in the Throne Room. Fin wasn't in sight and even the Cutthroats chuckled darkly knowing what will happen next. after a short period of time...a tune played. A dangerous and menacing strings of an orchestra played out of nowhere. "I-i-is that...?" Bonnie Anne said in worry. "No. It can't be!" Subodai growled. "It's begun..." Shepard hissed. "What? What's begun!? WHERE'S THAT MUSIC COMING FROM?! WHAT'S GOING ON!" Silver Spoon yelled in concern. It was then that the menacing music rapidly increased in fortissimo. Suddenly popping out of the water was a shark fin, creeping dangerously nearing Scootaloo who only watched as these events unfold. "PIRATE, GET OUT OF THERE!" Shepard yelled gaining Scootaloo's attention. "I don't think you realize what's happening, but the music that's playing; it's Fin's favorite tune: it's a 4/4 string ostinato in D minor! Every sailor knows that it means death!" he explained. "Ya mind explaining it in a language I can actually understand?!" Scootaloo retorted. "IT MEANS FIN'S COMIN' RIGHT FOR YA, CAPTAIN! GET OUTTA THERE AN QUICK!" Bonnie Anne yelled, but it was too late. The moment she took a step away, giant chompers emerged from the waters just right in front of the filly. "Time to say goodnight, little girl," Fin said darkly as the music increased in fortissimo once again, rapidly and rapidly until; "SCOOTALOO!" Silver Spoon yelled out in fear "CUTTHROAT CHOMP!" he called out as he suddenly, the chompers suddenly reacted and SNAP! It snapped close with the poor young filly still in range. I can only assume the filly met her early and unsatisfying demise. "CAPTAIN!" Bonnie Anne yelled. No response, it seems sh- "GRAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Fin suddenly yelled felling pain completely out of nowhere. It was then that he opened up and covered up his mouth in sheer pain, as if a burning sensation met his mouth, out of nowhere. The pirates looked at the Cutthroat in pain, in confusion. It was at that moment that Fin and the other pirates looked down in shock and saw Scootaloo; cowering in fear, but she was OK. She opened her eyes and found out that not only was she OK, but her coat in a brighter color, and her mane flowing in an orange flame; "W-what?" one of the Cutthroats said in confusion. "But how? No one could survive Fin's Cutthroat Chomp," another said. "But take a look at the pirate, i-it's almost as if..." the third one continued, "Almost as if she's on fire..." a fourth one concluded. "Except...she's not, she's...she's" "I am fire..." Scootaloo whispered in understanding. Her face of shock was suddenly replaced with a mischievous grin; it seems she has the upper hand at that battle, this time. Maybe it'll be enough to take on Fin. "You're good at escaping death, I applaud you, Pirate. But now I hope you realize you're in a full disadvantage here. You're maybe made of fire now, but water's my turf, pirate, you're nothing more than a sitting duck in my pond. Try to dodge this! WATER PULSE!" Fin yelled as he suddenly sprayed a power stream of water directly at Scootaloo. "BOILING MIRROR!" Scootaloo yelled as the stream of water Fin shot to her suddenly stopped in front of her, like some sort of fire shield. The water suddenly started boiling and it suddenly reflected back to the Cutthroat pirate, scalding him in hot water in a direct hit. "GAHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Fin screamed at the sheer pain of the water burning through his fins. It seems this little filly has some tricks in her hooves. "A direct hit!" Shepard cheered. "But...how can she suddenly control fire?" Bonnie Anne asked. "It must be why she was called Firewaker," Subodai said gaining their attention. "I know not of why he said it, but that name was introduced by Deacon, back when we were captured by him." Subodai said, reflecting on what Deacon said before. "Impressive, it seems I underestimated you, young pirate" Deacon Spoke up. "It seems a friend of mine is right, you WILL be a thorn in our plot. Not matter. Your 'friends' won't be there to save you next time; you will regret making an enemy of the Armada. Enjoy your freedom...while it lasts." "I look forward in beating you next time!" Scootaloo challenged the clockwork to which he gave out a chuckle. "I look forward for that day, Firewaker." "The name 'Firewaker' must be apart of the powers she posess within. At a sudden shock, her powers must of awakened at the last minute. It must be controlling fire." Subodai hypothesized. "SO WHAT?!" Fin interrupted glaring at the horse barbarian. "So what if she can control fire? It won't be enough to stop me!" "Then let's try this." Scootaloo said glaring at Fin preparing for another attack; at that moment, her hoof was suddenly engulfed in flames. Glaring at Fin, she suddenly charged up at him and just when she was directly in front of him, she leaped up with her flaming hoof at the ready. "FIRE HOOF!" she yelled. POW! a direct hit in the snout from Scootaloo to Fin. The impact was so powerful that Fin was sent flying to the walls of the cave, creating a massive crater to it. Everyone turned to the crater, only to find that once the smoke cleared Fin was unconscious. Soon enough, Shepard pointed his blade towards the remaining Cutthroats. Seeing their captain down, the only thing they can do was drop their weapons. "P-p-p-parley?" one of the Cutthroats squeaked. "The amulet is ours, boys." Shepard said glaring at the Cutthroats. They all then fled the field and left the tomb leaving the crew with the unconscious Fin. "I don't know what all that was about, captain, but you're quite handy in a fight." "Sooooooooo does that mean you'll join the crew?" Scootaloo asked anxiously. "Nah..." Shepard said as Scootaloo once again dropped to the ground in distraught, as the crew looked at her in disapproval. "I gotta report back to Smollet, anyway. You all should bring the Jade Amulet back to Avery." "Right. Now let's go." Subodai said grabbing the amulet and making his way out of the cave. "So who's carrying her, this time?" Silver Spoon asked. "I've done my part, you do yours." Bonnie Anne said leaving the cave as well. Silver Spoon followed her, trying to carry her fallen captain, leaving only Fin alone. By the time everybody was gone, Fin started to regain consciousness. "Ughh...that pirate, this will be her first victory, but what she doesn't realize is that she's made her first enemy," he groaned standing back up. Suddenly, the Cutthroat heard sounds of water splashing around, meaning someone is coming. Fin looked only to see a four legged equine figure wearing a white robe. "You again?" Fin asked looking at the figure. "Sorry, but I don't have the amulet anymore. You've been outbid." "What happened?" the figure said in a monotonous tone. "Got my ass-handed by that dammed pirate. This is your fault, you know. You never told me she can control fire! Do you know what this means for you?" Fin said yelling at his buyer. "Yes. Her powers are slowly awakening." the figure said, chuckling grimly.