Predacons Rising Part 1: Metamorphosis

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As the city life of Estes Park continued as normal, or whatever is considered normal seeing as there have been over three occurrences of magic in the course of two years, a secret operation was going underway. One section of underground tunnels glowed a slight green. Five cocoon-like pods hang in two rows on the ceiling of the chamber, with a series of tubes funneling to a large container of mutagen in the back. In between the shadows of the glowing pods, Chrysalis forward, placing her hand on the pod containing a light violet teenage girl in suspended animation.

“Your production of the perfect students is taking too long.” - Growled Sombra as he stepped towards one of the pods labeled “Squirk.”

“Yes.” - Chrysalis turned away - “But two of my experiments seem to fit the bill you’re looking for.”

“But those two gave themselves away when they maimed two students from Canterlot High.”

“And that has been taken into account.” - Chrysalis addressed as she walked down the chamber, looking at the pods labeled “Caterina,” “Porcina,” “Rep” and “Squirk” - “Skystalker and Darksteel are going to perform an important task, per our agreement.”

Sombra watched Chrysalis leave the hall before placing his fist on the cocoon labeled “Blackarachnia”.

“She does have a point.” - Sombra didn’t take his focus away as Heka slithered her way into the light - “Scarab’s Shabtis require a more industrial means that could just as well give us away.”

“I know…” - Sombra dragged a finger on the hard surface, scuffing it with a hard nail. He walked over to the results of the next few months of work: a large glowing red crystal. Not enough to create an army as Chrysalis had with her synthesized version of Veloci’s primordial ooze, he gained an idea, one that would be completely deadly - “But if not an army, then just one individual of complete power.” He eyed the serpent - “Are you willing to make the ultimate sacrifice?”

Heka’s eyes widened as Sombra took a chunk of the crystal, “Maybe we should wait until a test subject is found.”

Sombra narrowed his eyes before putting the shard back in place. “Agreed.” He answered before leaving the room.

At one corner of the room, Chrysalis was watching. A potential partner, or a potential threat. And one thing for certain, she didn’t want to take that risk.

Back above ground in the weight room of Canterlot High, the male students were hard at work lifting weights. Bulk Biceps, most muscular among them, lifted up to one hundred and fifty pounds at the bench press, Featherweight giving it his all to support his brother. Cosgrove, still recovering from his injuries, lifted smaller dumbbells. Tex and Zipper couldn’t help but notice the somewhat bitter look in his eyes when he put the weights down and walked towards the armed barbell. Over one hundred pounds total, but surely several sets of lifting smaller weights would be enough to start lifting heavier weights.

Cosgrove squatted down, wrapped his fingers around the barbell, lifting the weight as high as he could.

“You can do it!” Shouted Soarin’

Cosgrove got the barbell four feet above the ground when he staggered, holding his breath as he tried to extend his arms. A fatal mistake at the sudden pain in his shoulder blades had him yelp, sending the weight crashing hard on the rubber floor. The loud clang echoed the room as Zipper and Tex lead the wounded Maximal out of the weight room, across the gym, and to the locker room.

“What were you thinking, Cosgrove?” - Tex berated as he pointed back to the general direction of the weight room - “You could have ruined everything you’ve worked up to.”

After a moment of silence, Cosgrove answered, “It was the only way.”

On cue, the end of the school bell rang, prompting the three Maximals to change back into their regular clothes before the locker room gets too crowded. As they joined up with the other Maximals and Rainbooms, they overhear another deep howl, the first since Scarab’s attack.

“Much as we care for bringing back timberwolves.” - Applejack shifted her stetson with furrowed brows - “They’d better not get anywhere near the sheep.”

“Be worse if any of those Predacons get them.” - Said Rainbow Dash as she grabbed her helmet - “We have to find out where they are and hit em hard!”

“Attention, attention!” - They turned to a police scanner augmented (with permission from the city police) in Cosgrove’s CRV - “We have a call about a break-in at the Mephesto Genetics Laboratory.”

“That sounds like our Preds.” Said Chelsey as she hopped into Applejack’s truck.

Rainbow Dash and Zipper “ponied up,” sprouting wings and quickly ascending into the air. Twilight and Rarity hopped into a refurbished minivan simply known as the HUB. In the back, lined some of the most powerful consumer hardware they could afford (which is a godsend, thanks to the Dazzlings funding them).

Sunset hopped onto her motorcycle, turning the ignition as Rarity hopped on, “Roll out!”

And with that, everyone rushed out of school grounds to their intended destination. Well, almost everyone. Cosgrove took out his keys, sat on the driver’s seat, and was about to turn the ignition.

“It’s sad isn’t it?” - Trixie rested her head on the open window - “All left out because they worry for your safety. One of the top dogs of this school, reduced to a battered-”

Cosgrove pushed Trixie away from the car before turning the ignition. “At least I have a brother I can come home too, Trix.”

Trixie drew a smug grin as the CRV left the school grounds. She walked over to a parked moped, putting on her helmet.

“And Trixie has plans that will make her Great and Powerful.” She answered as she drove away.

Much further into the cityscape, Sadira effortlessly jumped rooftop across rooftop. As a thief at heart since she was a kid, this was no problem for her as she parkoured across the town. Reaching the edge of the plaza, she took in the comparatively moist air. And she couldn’t wait to find any other magic wielders.

Which isn’t long when she spotted two motocross bikes speeding down the street, each carrying two people. Sadira watched the red truck, carrying five more individuals, follow them when a winged charcoal gray creature flew by her, creating a gust of wind.

“What’s up?” Sadira wondered before materializing into a pile of sand and blown aside, following the turbulence.

The Rainbooms and most of the Maximals arrived at the laboratory, finding smoke billowing from the top. In the HUB Twilight pulled out her laptop, hacking into the security cameras.

“Approach with caution...” Sunset ordered as they entered the facility.

The pillars were laced with claw marks, the floors littered with debris and glass. A fatal mistake for it left a very large trail.

“Grrr! Chrysalis asking us to do drone work. After what happened, we should be taking them down one by one!”

Hugging the walls, Sunset and Rainbow Dash looked to find the same two Predacons that attacked Applebloom and Cosgrove rummaging through shelves of DNA. The techno-organic Ursagryph huffed as he turned around and walked down the corridor.

“Do not forget that it was your idea that he agreed on to attack those two students.” - Skystalker rebutted as he delicately grabbed DNA samples of a chameleon and wild boar - “Chrysalis sending on this minuscule mission was as expected.”

Back outside, Twilight placed a finger on her lower lip. “Chrysalis? How is she involved with this?”

“We’ll find out later, right now” - Sunset and her posse rushed into the room, Ponying up and Maximizing as they did, they easily surrounded the two monsters - “how about you put down the samples and we can get away from this nice and clean.”

Darksteel assumed a battle stance while his companion continued to fetch samples.

“Well, care to answer for your crimes, you ruffians?” Asked Rarity as her horn glowed

“Your arrival was easily predicted.” - Skystalker turned around, putting the last sample of DNA into an empty slot on his left gauntlet - “And so it was logical that we have a backup plan.”

Without warning, parts of the floor burst open. It’s as if they were in a zombie movie, only they weren’t fighting the undead, but they’re charcoal black skin, pure blue eyes, and chitinous bodies with perforated limbs and wings said otherwise.

“What in tarnation?” Applejack eyed her surrounding as over twenty of the weird beings surrounded them.

“Attack.” Skystalker ordered.

Rainbow Dash was the first to respond as she charged forward when the being, in a spiral of green flames, changed into an exact duplicate of herself and flew out of the way.

“What the-?!” Before Rainbow could answer, two more of them changed into her image and body slammed on top of her.

In pairs, the beings changed into the rest of the Rainbooms and Maximals, complete with their respective equine and dinosaur features before attacking them. Pinkie Pie pulled out a small version of her Party Cannon, blasting one of her duplicates in the face.

Back at the HUB, Twilight’s radar picked up several law enforcement officers heading their way.

“Guys, we have law enforcement heading our way. How are things inside?”

Back inside, Diver was flung to the side, her armored hide having toothmarks.

“Care to find out yourself?” She answered before charging at two of her duplicates, biting the one on her lift and performing a death roll.

Chelsey and Tex body slammed their duplicates on the ground, holding them long enough for Applejack to take out her lasso and bound them. “Let’s try to not make a mess of this place.” She said as she finished her unique knot when another one of the beings was about to sink its teeth into her.

Chelsey was quick to smack it aside with her long claws before charging continuing with the offense.

Darksteel, wanting a piece of the action, became jumpy. “Well, what are we waiting for?! Let’s take it up to round two!”

“In due time, Darksteel.” - Said Skystalker as he eyed the ringleader of their opposition blasting several of their foot soldiers with opal-green blasts when he siphoned part of the payload into an empty blowdart - “Though if you want to have fun...”

Given the dart, Darksteel squeaked in delight before changing into his beast mode, charging through the footsoldiers and ramming at Tex. Arm in his metallic beak, the Ursagryph swung him around, hearing the sophomore cry out in pain as his shoulder snapped in positions it shouldn’t.

“Tex!” Sunset shouted before blasting the beast, jogging backward as Darksteel reverted back to his normal form and ran towards her, aiming the armed blaster at her.

The loaded dart he fired would have struck her had a yellow and pink object caught it as she was flung to the wall. Seeing her friend injured, Sunset amplified her power before firing a much larger sphere at the beast, smashing him through the wall and out of the building, crashing into the hard concrete. With one of the Predacons beaten and the majority of foot soldiers defeated, our protagonists turn to the lone Skystalker.

“This is the part where you run away.” Said Rainbow Dash, cracking her knuckles as she shook her wings.

“A logical choice of words.” Said Skystalker before transforming into his beast mode, unleashing his dragon fire at the heroes long enough to use the hole to fly out. Darksteel recovered from the fall, spreading his wings to join up with his companions as they flew out of the building.

Hearing the blaring sound of an emergency vehicle approaching fast, Chelsey and Diver lifted the bound foot soldiers before the latter tapped into a comlink in her ear, “Twilight, need a ground bridge!”

Typing a few commands, Twilight opened a bridge of light just outside the door, allowing Applejack and Chelsey to rush inside. The rest of them ran out of the building, hopping onto their vehicles to make a mad dash away. As the Ground Bridge receded, Sadira walked around the ruined hallway.

“Things have changed.” She said as she heard the sirens grow louder and louder before grabbing DNA samples of a coyote and a snapping turtle before materializing into sand once more and flying with the wind.

The footsoldiers they took are held in a large container, screeching at them as they clawed at the plastic to no avail. Zipper opened the cage lid, giving Chelsey the leeway to enter the cage and grab one of them. The beast reaches it’s black claws at her, making small cat scratches on her face.

“Oh” - Chelsey swung a fist at the beast’s stomach, knocking it out - “pipe down!”

The Maximal flung it onto the table, Diver, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash tying it down.

“Didn’t have to slam him on the table, darling.” Said Rarity as she placed a hand on Chelsey.

“Had to vent after what happened with Tex.” Chelsey shrugged the fashionista’s hand and crossed her arms.

Twilight and Sunset drew a few DNA samples, from a piece of chitinous skin to the green saliva, running it through a select few machines.

“Well from the looks of it, this creature isn’t human.” - Sunset held a clipboard of the results - “Eighty-five percent of their structure is arthropod-based, with bits and pieces of mammal DNA to give it a more humanoid look.”

“But how can it change into, you know…” - Diver motioned her hands to her companions - “us?”

“The blood contains a modified version of Veloci’s primordial ooze.” - Answered Twilight as she fidgeted her glasses - “And I have a guess on who is behind this.”

A few searches on a desktop computer, Twilight pulls up a profile picture. “Outside of biology classes, Professor Chrysalis used to experiment on genetic anomalies. Rats with human ears, dogs with retractable claws, you name it. It’s only possible that her discovering a sample of Veloci’s leftover primordial ooze.”

“From the riverbed back home?” Applejack added.

“Exactly." Twilight examines the piece of exoskeleton under a microscope. "Though it doesn’t explain the armor embedded into their bodies. It looks like metal, but it has a shine, unlike any metal I have ever studied.”

As Twilight continued on, Fluttershy began to twitch. She looks down to see her nails growing faster than they should.

“Uhm, girls.” - Fluttershy got their attention - “I need to get home.”

The others looked at the window, noticing the outside world become increasingly darker.

“Great, another storm...” Rainbow complained.

“At least we’re one step closer to solving ‘Project Predacon.’” Said Pinkie Pie, getting weird looks from her friends.

“Don’t ever say those two words in one go again.” - Said Diver as she looked at the unconscious specimen - “What do we do with the Changeling?”

After a careful state of thought, Sunset, Applejack, and Chelsey were donning rain ponchos, the latter two about to chuck the two foot soldiers into the portal in front of the school while the former wrote in the journal.

“And so whoever answers this message understand that we are doing this just once.” - Sunset closed the journal, turning her head to the others - “Throw them in.”

“One, two, three!” They chanted before tossing them into the portal, illuminating the rainy schoolyard. The tempest growing more powerful, they ran as they could to their cars, driving against the blinding rain and lightning to get to their homes.

Beneath such a storm, Trixie followed the sewer lines to the chamber she found on accident. Having taken a different sewer lid, she tried to find the hole she fell through a day ago. Turning a corner, she found the bottom of the hole, only that it was closed off by construction workers.

“Mixmaster,” - Shouted Hook from up top - “Scrapper’s callin’ it quits for today! Let’s go!”

Before Mixmaster could take a fleeting glance, Trixie hugged the wall. She will have to take another way, she thought to herself as she took the nearest detour to her left. But the dark began to take its toll on her. She was safe from the chilling tempest, true, but with only a limited amount of light from her cellphone, she could only guess and hope against hope that she would find the chamber once again, grab the rest of the scrolls and get out of here. At least the increasing moisture kept the stench away.

It was where the pitter patter of the storm was most silent when Trixie found a source of light. It could be the chamber, but the green lighting sounded suspicious.

“I was this close to getting that dart at her.” - Trixie hugged the walls as the sewers were illuminated by the glowing eyes and insignias of Skystalker and Darksteel, the latter of who continued to gloat on his attempt on the Rainbooms and Maximals - “Had it not been for that yellow and pink thing flying in the way!”

“Cream colored, Darksteel.” Skystalker rebutted, flipping his index finger at his partner’s forehead.

As the figures came out of view, Trixie’s curiosity got the better of her and followed the light to the glowing green chamber. The Magician looked in astonishment at the cocoon-like shapes that illuminated the halls. She hid in the shadows once more, watching Skystalker inject the last sample of DNA into a pod when she heard the squeaking sound of a wheel rolling down the hall before looking at a small container of the mutagen.

“I take it the errand was successful?” Said the unknown assailant as he rolled towards the back of the chamber.

“Indeed,” - Answered Skystalker - “even the attack was easily predicted.”

“Attack?!” - The three people looked to the left, seeing Chrysalis walk towards them - “What point was being spotted again? This was to be a covert mission!”

“Your backlash was predictable.” - Skystalker opened a gauntlet taking out an empty syringe containing vampire bat DNA - “And so will the upcoming disturbance.”

Chrysalis gave a dry chuckle when they heard a sudden clang. Trixie was at the entrance, holding the sample of mutagen.

“Just ignore Trixie,” - She said as she tiptoed towards the door, hearing Darksteel transform - “she is just the cleaning crew, she’ll just put thiscontainerINTOSOMEWHERESAFE!”

The magician barely dodged the Ursagryphs pounce as she turned a corner, giving her a long enough head start to find the same hole she fell in, now without any construction crew in sight. But as she recalled, the chamber was also a dead end, a mistake she couldn’t afford, so she took the way she came, brushing her hand along the wall before grabbing a ladder. She hastily climbed the ladder, looking to the right to find an ever growing Predacon insignia approaching her. Darksteel increased his pace, flapping his wings before making a large jump, stretching his claws, slashing Trixie by the leg. Not daring to look back, Trixie ignored the beasts roar of anguish and drove off against the storm.

As the storm raged on throughout the night, Fluttershy cringed in her sleep, tossing and turning, disturbing and worrying Angel. In her dreams, the caretaker viewed herself in a dark forest, roosting at the top of a large tree. She looked down, spying a fawn. Without warning, the young animal was brought down, flipping its innocent eyes as the reflection showed a pair of carnivorous fangs coming down. Back in reality, Angel curled back in his cat bed as each lightning strike illuminated the shadow of the covers rising out of the bed, slipping off as a pair of leathery wings erupted.

Back at Great Valley Drive, Cosgrove watched as a few pairs of headlights entered the neighborhood before walking back to the living room chair, lifting a small weight. His father watched him, noticing him wince with every lift. Though it’s only two years away before Cosgrove will graduate, but during those two years, anything can happen like before.

As he saw his first child put the weight down, Clamp Jaw walked over, sitting on the rocking chair on the other side of the living room.

“How do you do it, Dad?” - Cosgrove asked, supporting his body with his forearms on his knees - “Every day of the year coming home, sometimes with a new bullet wound, a gash from a knife?”

Clamp Jaw took a deep breath, “You are recovering physically, but…” - He paused to tap his head a few times - “What did you do to get out the grief when Night Dancer passed on?”

“I… We… Talked about it.” Cosgrove answered.

“And Apple Bloom and her friends told them that they were the ones responsible for sharing personal information.” - Clamp Jaw added - “But after what happened to you two, maybe one of these days you can talk to her, she is another victim like you.”

Clamp Jaw titled his head as he watched his son go into his train of thought when a chime interrupted the silence. Cosgrove took the phone out of his pocket, finding an icon of a magic wand. Logging in, he looked at the text.

“Trixie has attained information that is of little importance to her. Bring medication,” - Cosgrove flicked his eyes up at his father - “come alone.”

Like her Equestrian counterpart, Trixie’s home can be best described as a mobile one. After her parents divorced, “Mrs. Lulamoon” took custody of Trixie, moving further inland today. And now, with her mother working double shifts, Trixie had the carrier all to herself. And tonight, she was shivering from the rain, hissing in pain as her left leg bled after being nicked Darksteel’s claws. Applying pressure for as long as she could when she heard a loud knock on her door. Keeping her injured limb off the ground, Trixie hobbled over to the door, opening it to show Clamp Jaw towering over her.

“Are you alone?” - He asked, to which she only nodded in fear - “Clear.”

Cosgrove stepped out of the car, holding a medical case as he walked into the carrier. “Pretty nasty wound you got there, Trixie.” - Looking at the wound, the Maximal jiggled the case - “I don’t think this is going to help.”

“Are you going to help Trixie or-?”

“First,” - Clamp Jaw grabbed Trixie by the hoodie and plopping her on the bench - “you’re going to tell us what you have found.”

Cosgrove sat on the other end of the bench, opening the case and taking out a syringe. “You see this?” - Cosgrove pointed to the ten-milliliter label in a fifty-milliliter syringe - “I need this much to numb the wound. Where were you?”

Lifting her leg as she could before wincing, Trixie answers in both a pained and smug tone, “Trixie was minding her own business, taking a nice little stroll through town…”

Cosgrove gently applied pressure, releasing a small amount of agent. “The facts, miss.”

“Okay, okay. Trixie was soaked in the rain and sought refuge in the sewers.” - Trixie noticed Cosgrove shifting his head, narrowing his eyes - “Trixie didn’t like the pitter patter of the rain so she walked deeper, and deeper until she found a glowing green light. She was then chased by this beast and that’s how she got her leg torn apart.”

Cosgrove narrowed his eyes even further before releasing more of the anesthetic.

“It’s the truth she swears!” - Trixie exclaimed, lifting her wounded leg - “Can’t you see Trixie is bleeding to death!?”

Cosgrove placed the syringe on the table, “Where was your entry and exit point?”

“'Entry and exit?' Trixie doesn’t” - The magician saw Cosgrove wince as he tested the current condition of his arm, raising his fist high - “You wouldn’t!”

“Answer the question, miss.” Cosgrove only watched the magician sweat before swinging his fist forward.

“TwoblocksleftofSugarcubeCorner, thefirstsewerlidyoucometo!”

Trixie held her eyes shut, waiting for the sound of a fist slamming the glass syringe (and of course the scream of pain that comes with it). Shooting a violet eye open revealed the ectrodactylic fist just a millimeter above the needle. Slowly retracting it, Cosgrove took a deep breath before saying,

“Thank you for your cooperation.”

Trixie had her mouth agape, about to laugh like mad before she cleared her throat, supporting her leg on a chair. “It hurts most, right here, sir.”

Back inside said sewers, someone rigged a bomb on Sombra’s diamond. Darksteel looked from the shadows with glowing eyes before continuing on, carrying the detonator as he reached the chamber of the Predacons. Chrysalis eyed the Ursagryph walking across before looking at her next subject as her Changelings worked around an operating table.

“Are you sure you want to do this?” - Chrysalis prepared the sleep gas - “There is a high probability you won’t survive.”

The person in question narrowed his violet eyes as he clenched his red fist. “Commence the operation.”

Chrysalis placed the mask over his mouth, slowly blurring his vision as the Changelings prepared their operating tools.

The next day is announced with the rooster crowing, the roar of several car engines, and the school parking lot being full by seven-thirty.

“Just a reminder for the Class of 2016,” - Chimed Principal Celestia from the PA system - “School photos will be taken next Friday, please submit your order forms by Wednesday.”

Most of the Rainbooms gathered around, their individual agendas being discussed among them.

“Chelsey’s staying with Tex after school to help him make up with housework.” - Sunset wrote in her agenda - “And Cosgrove is still recovering, Dapplewood at his side. That leaves us, Diver and Zipper.”

“Speaking of us,” - Rainbow looked around - “where is Fluttershy?”

“Hi, uh, girls.”

The Rainbooms turned over to see Fluttershy waddling towards them. Her hair is a mess, parts of her clothes are off, showing off a left bra strap, all the while wearing a cream colored poncho and black sunglasses.

“Nice shades, Flutters!” - Said Pinky, stroking Fluttershy’s hair

“Though the color does not suit you.” - Rarity pulled out a pair of blue glasses - “Here, try these-”

“Oh, uh, no.” - Fluttershy pushed away Rarity’s hand, an odd thing for her to do - “I, uh, want to try something out of... my comfort zone.”

Amidst the confused looks of her friends, Trixie hobbled by them, having her leg stitched up last night.

“What happened to you?” Asked Applejack, raising an eyebrow.

“That is none of your concern.” Trixie answered, not turning around to answer them as she walked to her locker.

“Don’t mind her, she’s just a little flustered after last night.” - Said Cosgrove as he walked over to them.

“The hundred dollar ticket was still unnecessary!” Trixie shouted down the hall.

Cosgrove gave a sly chuckle before turning to his boss. “Anyway, thanks to her, I’ve gotten information regarding the whereabouts of our Predacon associates.”

Though Trixie is one of the most unlikely of sources, any lead is better than nothing. Sunset leaned down, “What has Trixie told you?”

The school day flew over fast, and the Rainbooms, Zipper and Diver took their search in the dark depths of the city sewers. First time’s the journey, most of them pinched their noses.

“Applejack,” - Rarity asked in a nasal tone - “how can you stand the stench of this… this...?”

“If you’ve spent a little more time at my place, you build an immunity.” - Applejack looked back at the beam of light coming straight down the way they came - “We better make this quick, there’ll be less fresh air the deeper we go.”

Sunset tapped into her comlink, “Twilight, see if you can find any maps of the sewer systems.”

After leaving the noise to the drips falling into the water, the comms buzzed again.

“The original plans have yet to digitized.” Inside the HUB, Twilight lifted her eyebrows, looking worried. “Guys, I’m not keen on this, what if Trixie lead you on a false trail.”

Cosgrove, listening to the conversation while he worked on his homework, buzzed immediately after, “If Trixie has led us into a false trail, I know where to find her.”

Back at the sewers, Sunset tagged a tracer, signaling the others to press a button on their watches.

“Don’t do anything rash.” She commented with a stern tone.

“Same to you.” Cosgrove responds, imagining the smug look on her face upon hearing that.

Onward they walked down the sewers, mustering what ignorance they could to block out Rarity’s whining. Eventually, Applejack could have no more of this, and offered to carry the fashionista. After walking in pure darkness, they found another beam of light coming from the construction crews hole.

“Fluttershy, you’re with me.” - Said Sunset before pointing to Applejack and Rarity - “Applejack, Rarity...”

“I get ya, I get ya.” Said Applejack as she continued to carry Rarity to the tunnel on their left.

“Rainbow and Pinkie, take the tunnel to your right.”

“You got it!” Rainbow immediately sprouted wings and flew down the tunnel.

“Rainbow, I’m no flier but I don’t” - Pinkie stopped when a loud clang echoed the hall, followed by a yelp.

After a good chuckle, Diver donned into her beast mode, immersing her body in the sewage and swimming alongside Pinkie Pie. Now knowing the tunnels are not good for flying, Zipper kept to his normal self as he walked with Sunset and Fluttershy down the construction tunnel.

Sunset’s group walked through the column of light, entering the dark once more. Their hands brushed the wall before Sunset felt the pointy corner. Calling upon her magic illuminated the tunnel, showing three additional tunnels. Zipper took the tunnel to the right, looking as deep into the tunnel as he could. “See anything green?” She asked.

“Nata. Howarethingsonyourend?”

Sunset squinted at her section of the tunnel before dimming her magic. There is indeed a light, but not the right color.

“I see a light, but not the color Trixie described.” - Sunset increased her illumination - “Anything, Fluttershy? Fluttershy?”

Sunset turned to the tunnel on her left; Fluttershy was nowhere to be seen.

“Must’vewentdownthetunnel.” Said Zipper as he leaned into the tunnel.

“No. No that isn’t like her.” - Sunset shook her head; it is common knowledge after all that Fluttershy wouldn’t go into a potentially frightening ordeal alone. She began to walk down the tunnel - “Wait here.”

Rainbow Dash rubbed the browned bruise on her otherwise blue head. With one good eye, she looked at Pinkie skipping down the tunnel with her eyes closed. Rainbow groaned again before finally seeing it: the green light at the end of the hall. As she had at Crystal Prep, the athlete tapped the stone floor, signaling Diver to submerge. Peeking from the corner, they found the lab. Below the surface of the sewage, Diver watched Rainbow walked on the grates, looking at the pods as the people contained have developed more animalistic features; the pod labeled “Squirk” appeared cephalopodan.

“Wow!” - Pinkie Pie zipped into Rainbow’s view, scaring her out of her wits - “They really amped up on Halloween costumes.”

“SHH!” - Rainbow shushed before tapping into her headset - “Guys! We’ve found the chamber. We’re gonna need backup.”

Tightening her grip around Applejack's neck with one arm, Rarity taps into her comlink with another.

“Right away, Rainbow darling.” She responds before being tossed onto the floor.

“And you’re going on foot all the way there.” Said Applejack as she ran the other way.

Sunset also tapped into her comlink.

“On my-” When she turned around, her ears picked up a crunching noise. Lighting up the tunnel even further, Sunset lifted her boot, finding a dead rat, or at least a dead husk of it. As she inspected the dead rodent, her ears picked up more scratching along the walls before a pair of sunglasses fell. The fire-haired teen looked up. Fluttershy was looking down with blood red eyes. Her wings were no longer avian, but leathery with bony fingers.

At the entrance of the tunnel, Zipper turned to a scream. “Boss!”

Rarity split up from Applejack to join up with Sunset’s group. Zipper ran down the tunnel, dodging a few sea-green blasts, each flash of light illuminating a piece of Sunset being on the defensive.

“AnotherPredacon?” - Zipper watches Sunset glow a little from her horn, revealing herself and the feral Fluttershy to him - “Fluttershy?!”

“That’s not Fluttershy,” - Rarity commented as she caught up to him - “that’s Flutterbat!”

Hearing that in the Predacon chamber, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie raced to the entrance when a portcullis shot straight up, blocking their way out.

“Hey! What gives?!” Exclaimed Rainbow Dash as she tried to pull the gate.

“Welcome to the Predacon Chamber.” - Pinkie and Rainbow turned around to find Skystalker well behind them, along with Darksteel and Chrysalis - “Though it was only logical after one of your own told you about our location.”

“What have you done to Fluttershy you stone-hearted, no cold hearted” - Pinkie Pie tried to find a suitable description for them before saying - “You don’t even have a heart!”

Darksteel growled when Chrysalis placed a hand on his shoulder. “Fluttershy, eh? Well,” - Skystalker handed her the empty syringe of vampire bat mutagen - “the mutagen has done its work then.”

Rainbow Dash curled her fists, baring her teeth as she activated her magic, sprouting wings. “You make an antidote right-!”

Rainbow’s brief assault ended when a purple blast exploded the grate in front of her. Another contender entered the fray. This one had grey-black armor, with a boll weevil head, scorpion tail, and insectlike legs.

“You are in no position to make demands.” He says in a deep Kevin Michael Richardson style voice.

“And what kind of Predacon are you?” Asked Rainbow Dash.

“You may refer to me as” - the being generated another particle cannon from his free hand - “Galgameth.”

Rainbow and Pinkie Pie bounded out of the way of each blast from Galgameth, destroying several grates and splashing sewage all over. Skystalker and Darksteel donned their beast modes, the former going after Pinkie Pie and the latter after Rainbow Dash. The cybernetic dragon kept lunging at the party planner, and every time resulted in him colliding with the walls. Such vibrations can be felt in Sombra’s crystal chamber, prompting him to take action in moving the crystal. Back at the battle, Skystalker gained his speed, getting close enough that he swiped at Pinkie.

“Owie, Ow! You got my eye! Oh, ouch!” - Leaving the noise to Rainbow Dash and Darksteel, Skystalker looked down at the balled up pink mass before she jumped up and shot a small paintball at his eye - “Gotcha!” She exclaimed before running out, ignoring the irritated growl.

Rainbow Dash had a ball when she dodged Darksteels flame breath, flying back to give him an axe kick to the head. But awesomeness gave her a bad case of cockiness; as she flew from behind, the Ursagryph swiped her in the face, sending her crashing over to the wall. Rainbow looked forward with a blurry vision as Darksteel approached her with his mouth glowing when Diver burst out of an open grate, grabbing the Ursagryph by the leg and pulling him into the sewage. Now out of his element, Darksteel floated around helplessly as the humanoid crocodilian grabbed his leg, twisted it, swam away before repeating the action to his wing.

Applejack ran to the portcullis, finding Galgameth aiming a cannon at the recovering Rainbow Dash. Hearing Chrysalis laugh, Applejack called upon her magic before tearing away the rusted gate. Just as Galgameth was at the peak of charging his arm cannon, Applejack rushed at him, misguiding the blast at the tank of mutagen that fueled the other pods, spilling the contents over Chrysalis.

“No!” Chrysalis is doused in the mutagen she synthesized several months ago. Both protagonist and antagonist watched as Chrysalis screamed in terror. Her skin became a deep black and chitinous, her fingers long and bony, parts of her limbs perforated as well for the pair of glossy wings erupting from her back, her hair became batched together to form a clear webbing that is divided by a massive, crooked horn. “Help Me!”

Her plea awoke the Changelings, rushing passed their allies and enemies to assist Chrysalis, carrying her out of the chamber. The control panel of the incubation chambers started flashing red, drawing Skystalker’s attention. “The life support has been malfunctioned. Ejection is the only logical action.”

Inside, the subjects, noticing the sudden lack of oxygen, shot awake and began pounding at the chambers, the mutagen around them slowing each strike.

“Then do it!” Ordered Galgameth.

Pressing a few buttons, the seams of each lid steamed, falling on the floor into thousands of pieces. All five subjects joined the spilled mutagen, moaning and coughing as their eyes tried to make out the shapes, one of which morphed into another shape as it approached them.

“Who are you?” - Asked Caterina before looking at the Rainbooms - “Who are they?”

Galgameth lifted Caterina to her feet before answering, “Our enemies.”

Sunset herself wrestled with Fluttershy as she snapped her jaws, getting nearer and nearer to her throat.

“Fluttershy, sweetness…” Rarity attempt to reach out to Fluttershy only resulted in her getting smacked by a wing.

Zipper, hearing the conflict echo in the tunnel, “Ponied” up, puffed out his chest and screamed. Loud enough for Rarity and Sunset to fold their ears and cuff them, and especially so that Fluttershy’s now ultra sensitive ears picked it up as so loud that her eyes became pinpricks. In haste, she released Sunset and flew into the darkness. The danger gone, Zipper silenced himself, giving his friends a moment to relax.

“My God what a set of lungs.” Rarity stood up, wiping the dirt off her clothing. Zipper ascended into the pungent air and flew down the way they came. Rarity was about to join him when she found Sunset staring into the tunnel. - “We will get her back, darling.”

Sunset’s furrowed her brow before joining up with Rarity. Back at the Predacon chamber, Galgameth pointed his arm cannon at the more numerous but largely projectile lacking Rainbooms while Skystalker herded the newly awakened recruits out of the room. The moment of silence was interrupted as Darksteel burst out of the sewage, holding an unconscious Diver in his arms. Rainbow dared to rush in and save her before seeing the Ursagryph place a metallic paw on her head.

“Now, we will make our leave.” - Galgameth slowly backed away, his peripheral vision picking up Darksteel transforming back into his anthropomorphic state, carrying Diver on his shoulders and leaving. With now potential hostages, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash slowly backed away - “Blow.”

He tapped a button on his belt, illuminating the chamber and down with several blinking red lights trailing all the way down Sombra’s crystal chamber, who himself noticed too late that the crystal he worked on for the past few months had been rigged to blow. The explosion was heard further down when Galgameth turned on his thrusters and zipping down the halls. Rainbow attempted to pursue him, but Applejack grabbed her by the wings and raced out of the tunnel. Joined up with Sunset’s group with now one less member as well, the question will have to wait as they followed the tracer planted on the wall and climbing out of the sewer, closing the lid as the smoke reach the entrance.

“Guys!” - Twilight hopped out of the HUB - “What’s wrong? Where are Fluttershy and Diver?”

After a moment or two of catching their breath, Rainbow Dash tapped into her comlink. “Well, Diver’s been taken… We’ve got eight Predacons now… and Chrysalis got mutated.”

“And… Fluttershy?” Twilight asked, looking at Sunset, Rarity, and Zipper.

“MIA…” - Sunset looked up at the darkening sky being lit up by a meteor shower - “for now…”

Just outside of town, Fluttershy landed on a water tower, looking upward at the natural spectacle raining down on the earth. The night will come soon, and her search for a suitable nest will begin. Back in the destroyed chamber, Sombra’s body laid motionless amongst solid stone and shattered crystals. One such shard was embedded right at his heart, keeping the blood from oozing out. The moon shined over the remains, but during this time of year, it can become very cloudy. One such cumulus cloud drifted under the orbiting rock, darkening the chamber once more.

Heka watched as the crystal began to glow, emanating green and violet smoke from the base. Sombra’s eyes shot open, the green sclera glowing in the pure darkness. “Yessssss…..”

Predacons Rising Part 2: Leader of the Pack

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At the abandoned ruins of the Albert Birch Bungalow, Galgameth, Skystalker, and Darksteel watched the sun rise once more, illuminating the land around the city before turning around to their new recruits waking up.

“Ugh…” - Caterina got up, looking at her five others as they awoke and noticing their more animalistic features - “Porcina? Rep? What happened to-?” - Lifting her hand revealed a much more furred limb - “What the?!”

Seeing Caterina, Porcina crawled over to a small puddle, finding her face suid, long snout, big ears, the works. “You ask me! Look at me!”

“Dude,” - Both of them turned to Squirk as he recklessly moved his tentacles, barely mastering the hundreds of muscles on each limb - “this is creepy.”

“You think this is creepy,” - Blackarachnia lifted her arms, showing the holes in each - “my arms look like Swiss cheese!”

Rep rubbed his reptilian snout with his zygodactylous hands, “We’ve been turned into freaks!” - He turned over to Galgameth, Skystalker, and Darksteel - “I thought Sombra said we were going to be the perfect athletes.”

Porcina shoved the chameleon aside, sizing herself up to Galgameth. “This is a complete mistake! We want a complete-!”

Galgameth punched the pig in the stomach, lifted her up and tossed her aside. Seeing this, Caterina drew out her claws, looking furious.

“Alright, time for this cat to-” Galgameth pulled a plasma cannon before the feline, touching her head with the barrel.

“The incubation process was incomplete. Out of all of you, Blackarachnia is the closest to ever transform.” - Skystalker motioned to the others - “Logically, you shouldn’t return to your homes.”

The five new Predacons looked at each other before turning to their supervisors. “Where do we live now?” Asked Caterina, her feline ears drawn back.

“This is your new home.” - The group looked back, finding the mutated Chrysalis walking towards them - “You will serve me well, if not…” - Chrysalis nodded her head, motioning her first subordinates to aim their weapons at them.

“Well...” - Squirk managed to curl up on tentacle - “being a squid does draw an interest from Oriental Feast. I’m in.”

“Fine, but only if you find a cure.” - Caterina purred a little - “What would you want us to do?”

Chrysalis lit up her horn, levitating a wounded Diver over to the group. “You will finish off what they have started. Strike them at full force while their numbers are still scattered.”

In their base of operations at Canterlot High, actions were well underway for the recovery of Fluttershy. If the mutagen inside of her isn’t permanent as have happened to the Maximals, then a simple chill and spill should do the trick. And with higher altitudes being colder than ground level, Rainbow Dash and Zipper have already taken to the skies.

“Cotton Candy to Angel Smurf, Cotton Candy to Angel Smurf,” - Pinkie Pie beckoned as she held a CB unit - “What’s your vector, victor?”

Up in the air, Rainbow stopped soaring and tapped into her comlink, “‘Angel Smurf?’ Really, Pinkie?”

Applejack grabbed the CB, giving the party planner the look, “What do you have so far, Rainbow?”

“Nothing but blue skies.” - Rainbow chimed to Zipper as he made his way out of a cave - “Anything on your end, Zip.”

“Wholebunchofnada.” He answered, sitting on a boulder.

“Return back to base,” - Sunset voiced through the CB - “we’ll start again somewhere else.”

Rarity, holding Spike in her arms, looked at Twilight as she wrote a complex equation.

“Is that an equation for a… retromutagen?” Asked the dog, as he shuffled in the fashionista’s arms.

“Yes, Spike. If I can get the reverse engineer the mutagen present in both examples, we should be able to restore Fluttershy to normal.” Said Twilight.

“Even if you did,” - Sunset turned around to a damage centrifuge, holding in her frustration - “the process of which would not be severely impaired had Rainbow Dash not bring the entire soccer team to this room.”

“Hey, it was Glue Foot’s fault, not mine.” Rainbow Dash buzzed from the other side of the line.

Their conversation is interrupted when a knock is heard on the door. Pinkie Pie bounded forth, opening the door to find Derpy in mailman garb.

“Letter for you.” She said, handing out a crudely made letter.

“Thank you!” - Pinkie Pie leaned back inside, coming back out with a carton full of raisin muffins - “Muffin?”

Derpy licked her lips before delicately grabbing one of them and leaving. Pinkie bounded back with the letter, opening it up to find a crude letter to match.

Dear Students at Canterlot High,
You know of our existence, and we have one of your own. If you want her seen again, meet us at the location given to in the letter.
Galgameth.

Rarity flipped the letter back and forth, expecting to see the address in the back or at the sides. “Such an inconvenient person this Galgameth person is. He didn’t even have the information.”

“(Meet us at the location given to us in the letter.)” - Sunset thought to herself as she lifted the letter then looked at the envelope - “It is given to us.” She said, pointing at the sender corner of the envelope, which read:

523 Big Thompson Avenue

“Jordan’s Greenhouse?” - Said Applejack - “Why would they be in a public location if they’ve been mutated?”

“Either with help or on their own, they must have learned to transform.” - She dialed Chelsey’s phone number, waited for the phone to click - “Hey Chelsey. Are you available?”

At the hospital, Chesley was pushing Tex’s wheelchair with one hand when she answers,

“Yeah, just give me a minute to get Tex out of the clinic.” - She soon reached the front entrance, where his parents were waiting - “Hold on just one minute, you’ll be alright, will you?”

“Yeah yeah, I’ll be fine.” Tex answered, waving his uninjured limb.

Releasing him in the hands of his parents, Chelsey got back to the phone. “Where do we meet?”

The Rainbooms, now with Rainbow Dash and Zipper, were already on their way to the greenhouse. Sunset drove ahead by motorcycle and so relied on the radio “We are en route to-”

Hearing a crashing sound behind her, Sunset skid to a halt, turning around to find a truck similar to Applejack’s pushing at the farmer’s truck itself off the road, spinning it out of control at a golf course.

Applejack shook her head, sputtered a little before slowly twisting her body. “Which one of y’all ain’t dead?” She asked, getting a groan from her passengers.

Sunset drove to the accident site, seeing both the “weapon” used and the largely damaged but still intact truck when she heard from Applejack, “Everybody’s present and accounted for.”

The cyclist took off her helmet, sighing in relief. “Thank God.”

She muttered before being smacked aside. Sunset rolled down the hill, each roll seeing Galgameth appearing at the hill, jumping up and falling back down. All the while, the other Predacons began their attack.

Zipper was the first to transform, and ascend into the air. As he looked down on leather wings, the Maximal found himself pursued by Blackarachnia. Accepting this rival with a loud screech, he dove down, talons reached out before latching onto the Pred’s arms. His four wings grasping with an iron grip, Zipper and Blackarachnia punched each other nonstop as they descended fast towards the ground. In an act of desperation, the Predacon transformed into Diver’s anthro mode and bit down on his wing. Screaming in pain, he released his grip, performing a U-Turn in the air before coming back.

Applejack shifted her stetson forward as she went toe to toe against Porcina. Granted that she is still human, Applejack would find little difference in hogtying the Pred easily. That would be had it not been for her making two duplicates of herself. Such great detail made it hard for even the Element of Honesty to decide as dodged the punches of Porcina’s miniature army. But as she dodged, she did begin to notice a few things; two of the pigs were using their right arm and had a more blue hue on their skin. Just as the real Porcina jumped at her, the apple farmer gave her a very good punch on the snout.

Rainbow Dash and Darksteel are at it again for Round 3. Now in open spaces, the sports captain flew about the skies, making several tight turns that would give the Ursagryph three seconds to turn around. Each time he did so, Darksteel would be given a “Sonic Roundhouse” (a move dubbed by Rainbow Dash herself). Enraged, the Predacon spun about, unleashing his firestorm at the clouds, decreasing any and all hiding places within his general area. He hovered about, looking around before finding Zipper and Blackarachnia fighting. Sensing no danger, Darksteel flew forward just when Rainbow drop kicked him so hard he fell back down on the floor.

Squirk had a more ranged form of fighting as he lashed his tentacled limbs at Rarity. Not one to get her hands dirty as well, Rarity levitated fallen branches, and rocks and threw them at him. But that left her vulnerable from the stalking Caterina. Claws unsheathed, the anthropomorphic felines hiss reached Rarity’s pony ear, dodging the pounce at the last minute. Squirk raised his arms, forming a spear-like tip in each before shooting them out, striking Rarity in the back and sending her flying a few meters. The battle being rough for her, she pressed a button on her boots, protruding roller blades at the soles. Getting back on her feet, Rarity ran a figure eight around the cat and squid, teasing them and using their attacks against each other.

A distance away from a tree line, Rep had much more of an advantage with his camouflage abilities. He prowled around the tree tops before his eyes targeted the bright pink object. In one quick motion, he lashed his tongue forward, knocking out the party planner. Crawling down, the chameleon inspected Pinkie, his unusual hands grasping and turned her around; it was a dummy. His skepticism cut short as Pinkie Pie blew a party horn into his ear. Fitting her Equestrian counterpart, she held her thumb with her lips, blew her hand up to three times its size and gave him an uppercut, launching him into the clearing.

Sunset got up to find Galgameth and Skystalker circling around her.

“You answering our letter was easily predictable.” - Said Skystalker, pointing up to the hill

“A shame that your team isn’t at full strength.” - Galgameth pointed a cannon at her head - “But don’t worry, Chrysalis wants you all alive.”

“I want us to be back in one piece!” - Exclaimed Chelsey as she “ponied up” and punched Galgameth in the head. She turned around to Skystalker transforming into his dragon mode, charging at her as he unleashed his icy breath. The giant Sophomore dodged the attack, lashing her claws as the dragon lunged back and forth at her.

Galgameth got himself back into gear, aiming his arm cannon at the therizinosaur when a sea green aura wrapped around his arm before being pulled straight over to a furious Sunset Shimmer. “Not this time…” She said before unleashing a pulse from her body, sending the mech flying over.

Back at the HUB, Twilight tried her hardest to communicate with her team. “Sunset, what’s going on?!” - the interior of the HUB started to short circuit, worrying Spike as he curled back into a corner - “Guys!”

Back at the battle, Sunset applied all of her might in a beam fight between her and Galgameth, sending him flying back. The Phoenix Bearer charged another blast, ready to fire at the robotic insect. Suddenly a dark ring enveloped around her, trapping her in a ring of black crystals.

“Sunset!” Shouted Applejack before she got enveloped in the same style prison along with Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Chelsey.

Sunset wrapped herself in an aura, warping out of the crystal prison. “Hang on-!” Sunset was immediately sent back into her prison, much to her confusion.

Back in the air, Zipper and Blackarachnia looked down from the sky, not noticing the dark cloud coming up behind the Maximal. On another section of the sky, Darksteel and Rainbow Dash looked down as well with confusion.

“The hell?” Said Rainbow when she turned to a loud screeching noise, finding Zipper, knocked out of his power mode and falling down to the ground. A team player, she dove down after the Maximal, the wind blowing hard against her eyes and cheeks. In one swoop, she grabbed Zipper, flying forward a few meters before, like a crocodile catching a dove, they were both encased in the crystal prison.

Blackarachnia and Darksteel landed on the ground, looking around each crystal prison as they join up with their fellow Cons.

“This was not part of the plan.” Said Galgameth, feeling a sharp shock on his limb.

“No…” - The black smoke emanated from the crystal prisons, gradually taking shape of a man. Parts of his body and limbs were encrusted with crystals, and a red-tipped horn jutted out of his head - “It was mine.”

Darksteel cringed at the sight of him, “It cannot be…”

“It defies logic.” Added Skystalker, his blank tone for once having a slight amount of fear.

Sombra walked towards the cage containing Sunset Shimmer, giving her a growl as he eyed the other cages. “Where is she….?” Not hearing an answer, he turned around, intensifying his aura as his anger was being tested.

“The abandoned warehouse…” - Galgameth pointed towards the Rockies - “Just west from here.”

Narrowing his smoking optics, Sombra wrapped the entire area in smoke. With the passing of the wind, he, the Predacons, and their captives away.

“Sunset?” - Twilight tried to buzz at all that was left: the comlinks themselves - “Applejack? Pinkie Pie? Anyone?”

Being out of the loop gave Cosgrove the opportunity to take his dad’s suggestion. With his brother, he drove over to Sweet Apple Acres. Spring approaching, many of the trees have already blossomed, with a few apple buds beginning to replace the flower petals. Strangely, this section of land was very cloudy today compared to his home. Hearing the sounds of the various farm animals, they eventually come across Big Mac lifting down one of the buckets needed for the harvest.

“Hey, Big Mac.” Cosgrove greeted, getting the much larger person’s attention.

“Howdy.” Mac greeted back, looking down at the Thunderfoot children with his laid back look.

Cosgrove scratched his chin before asking, “Is Apple Bloom around?”

Though still a little flustered after the Anon-a-Miss mess, Big Mac humbly accepted his question, pointing towards the west orchard. “Eeyup.”

Over at a break in said section of the forest, Apple Bloom herself just placed one such bucket near the trunk of a tree. Turning around, the Crusader found the two Maximals entering the clearing.

“Hi, Cosgrove. Dapplewood.” - She greeted, receiving a wave from the younger of the two.

“Hi, Apple Bloom.” - Cosgrove looked at the stack of buckets, walking over and lifting one, wincing as he did before taking it to an unoccupied tree - “Just wanting to stop by.”

The young farmer noticed him shakily putting it down at the trunk before straightening himself up. “How do you feel?”

Cosgrove stopped, answering, “Much better from before, but still hurts.” - The Maximal was about to grab another bucket when he turned around - “Were you… Hurt during that attack?”

“Shaken. But not too bad.” Apple Bloom answered as she moved her shoulders. She picked up another bucket, hearing him thanking the Lord under his own breath.

As the Maximal placed the bucket on next to the trunk, he found something odd about the fruit around them. Twenty-two of the apple trees blossomed a very dark color of apples, looking as if they were already spoiled before they could even be harvested. Tallest of the present company, Big Mac reached out to grab one, pulling on it with all his might. Despite the thin stem, the fruit still held the branch with an iron grip.

“Weird ain’t it?” - Cosgrove turned to find Apple Bloom amusingly hanging a few inches of the ground as she held another of the apples - “They grew just yesterday.”

Cosgrove grabbed the closest apple, reaching to down to his mouth to take a bite. The texture of the apple felt very rubbery, not even any tooth marks after biting it hard. Dapplewood donned on his anthro mode, rushing at a tree at full speed. Upon collision, the tree distorted, traveling up the trunk before quickly traveling back down, giving him a quick jolt. The others walked up to the Dapplewood, finding that the shock left a burn mark on his domed skull.

The clouds parted ways for the first time in a few days, just enough to allow a ray of light to reach out onto one of the apples. With a slight jolt, the fruit was changed from its dark color to a beautiful rainbow pattern. Apple Bloom, Big Mac, Cosgrove, and Dapplewood watched as this anomaly shot out another rainbow at another apple, changing its hide to rainbow colors before shooting out another rainbow. More and more, the darkened apples were transformed until the entire section of forest illuminated like a shined prism, dappling their bodies with colors of all tints and shades.

Big Mac grabbed one, this time prying it off easily. Pocket knife in hand, he took out a slice, inspecting the technicolored meat inside before ingesting it.

“Well?” - Apple Bloom cocked her head as she waited for an answer - “How does it taste?”

After chewing the slice a while, Mac suddenly stopped, staring into the horizon with eyes almost completely black.

“Great…” he said, subconsciously dropping the carved fruit to be caught by his sister.

Prying the knife from her brother, Apple Bloom took another slice, chewing it up before having almost the same reaction as her enlightened brother.

“This is delicious!” - She sliced two pieces off the apple, handing them to the brothers.

As Cosgrove ate his slice, he turned to find the burn mark on Dapplewood's head missing. After swallowing his piece, he felt his muscles relax. Apple Bloom noticed this as well before handing him the rest of the apple. Before he could dig his molars into the crunchy hide, Cosgrove stopped, sniffing the air of a familiar scent. Widening his eyes, he pushed her down, barely avoiding the danger pouncing at them.

With not much available prey during the day, Fluttershy turned her attention to the more isolated Sweet Apple Acres. She ascended higher into the air before turning around to attack them. Gaining more leeway in his body, Cosgrove stretched his arms, wrapping the caretaker in a headlock. As amazed she was at his restored strength, now wasn't the time for praise, but it did give Apple Bloom an idea.

“Keep her steady, I’ll be right back!” Apple Bloom ran back to the house.

Dapplewood joined in the struggle, but it wasn't enough and the powered up Fluttershy bolted them off of her. She ascended again when Big Mac grabbed her by her muddied shoe. Instinctively she clawed at him, releasing her from his grip and flying away. She turned around once more, looking down at her chosen prey. She readied to dive when her ears picked up a sharp whistle. She switched targets, turning instead to Apple Bloom. The Crusader stood there, arms behind her back, watching the vampire dive down at her. Just as she was close enough to reach out, Apple Bloom flashed a mirror at her face. Like a cat seeing itself for the first time, Fluttershy hissed and pawed around. She wanted to turn away when Big Mac and Cosgrove held her by the arms and wings respectively while Dapplewood held her legs with a vice grip.

As Fluttershy stared at the mirror, her feral side was gradually overtaken by her normal side, her kind side. Her arms, legs, and wings calmed themselves.

“Oh, my." Fluttershy shook her head. "Where am I?”

The other four looked at her skeptically before Big Mac nodded his head, prompting the Thunderfoot Brothers to release her.

“You don’t remember?” Asked Cosgrove.

“The last thing I remember was… being in the sewers with Sunset and Zipper…” - Fluttershy’s memory lapsed, hearing the gnashing of teeth as she tried to bite Sunset before hearing the harmful screech ringing in her ear. Recalling back to reality, she reached out and grabbed Apple Bloom and Dapplewood in a tight embrace. - “Oh goodness! I am sorry, I’m so sorry!”

“Apology,” - Apple Bloom muttered as Fluttershy’s surprising strength got tighter - “taken.”

Cosgrove felt a buzz in his khakis, picking up and answering his phone. “Cosgrove here.”

“Perfect, communication back online!” - Twilight shouted out from the other side of the line - “Sunset, Applejack, they all got captured!”

“What?!” He places the phone on speaker.

“They've been ambushed on the way a greenhouse.” - Twilight groaned - “Look, I know you’re still recovering, and with Tex just out of the hospital-”

“What was the last thing you heard from the coms?” Cosgrove turns around, shuffling back and forth as he waited for a response.

“Something about a warehouse near the mountains. Cosgrove, I don’t like this idea. You against eight Predacons and Chrysalis.”

Cosgrove furrowed his brow, looking at Apple Bloom, Big Mac, Dapplewood, and Fluttershy.

“Contact Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo.”

“Cosgrove, they’re grounded.” Said Twilight.

“If we try the Dazzlings, it’ll be too late.”

Twilight groaned at the idea, pinching her temples. “Do you at least have a plan?

After a long moment of not answering her question, Big Mac grabbed the phone, answering with a simple, “Eeyup.”

Big Mac looks to the pig pen then looked at Dapplewood. Getting the idea, Dapplewood rolls his eyes with a snort before climbing in the pig pen. He rolls in the mud while Big Mac walks towards the barn. Apple Bloom takes out her cell phone, walking away to a more quiet section of farmland for her two companions. Cosgrove looks at the bruised rainbow apple, rubbing it on his chest before downing the flesh.

Far away at the exact location, Chrysalis and Sombra fought against each other. All of her Changeling creations were knocked out cold, lying down on the metal floor.

“Sombra, it was an accident!” Chrysalis tried to explain be being smacked aside by a surge of his magic.

“You left me to die!” Sombra growled as he approached Chrysalis.

“But look at you!” - Chrysalis pointed a spindly finger at him - “You have the power for your super soldiers all to yourself!” - Sombra raised a brow as Chrysalis walked towards him, wrapping her arms around his neck - “And you do look good in crystals.”

Though knowing Chrysalis is lying, he did have to accept the fact that he is much more powerful with magic. Without it, most of the Rainbooms and the Maximals would not be with them now.

Speaking of whom, in the main part of the warehouse, eight of our captured heroes were kept in a cage. While Chrysalis and Sombra bantered, they were further pummeled to the point that they couldn’t painlessly “pony up” and break the cage. But even then, Rainbow Dash would not have any of this and continuously rammed each side of their prison.

“Give it a rest, Rainbow.” Said Applejack as she laid down on the floor, resting her head on the wall - “Diver already tried that, haven’t you, sugar cube?”

Diver sat herself up, “Yeah.” - She lifted up her lip, showing a few chipped teeth - “Solid steel, God knows how thick.”

Rainbow sprouted her wings, fanning them out in intimidation.

“You never bothered to tell me.” Rainbow’s answer is but a snide chuckle from the Maximal.

“A logical choice.” - Skystalker approached the entrance of the cage, drawing many angry eyes - “We would only need five more of you. Those being the ones named Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle-”

Rarity rushed at the techno-organic dragon, the bars being the only thing keeping her from going full out on him.

“You lay one claw at her and I’ll do to you like what you did to Apple Bloom and Cosgrove!!”

Looking at the fashionista’s steaming face an emotionless one, Skystalker responded, “Your threat is illogical.”

The relative silence of the warehouse was disturbed by the ringing sound of a bell. Darksteel, itching for action once more, rushed towards the creaking door and tearing it open. He stretched his claws, ready to tear the snot out of the intruder.

“Why, thank you, kind sir.” - Walking around the completely dumbfounded Ursagryph was Big Mac dressed in a teal Victorian Era styled dress, blonde wig, all the way down to the lipstick, and the accent to match - “I so do appreciate a gentleman opening the door.”

“I’m sixteen...” Darksteel muttered in a confused yet irritated tone as he looked to the Rainbooms and Maximals snickering, trying to contain their laughter.

“My do you kids grow up so fast.” When they see Big Mac pinch Darksteel’s cheek, Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie collapsed on the floor, laughing their asses off as they rolled on the sides.

Skystalker walked up Big Mac, looking at him skeptically, “What is your business here, Miss…?”

“Blossom.” - Big Mac took out a fan - “Orchard Blossom.” - He looked ahead, finding his caged friends and sister before walking forward into the warehouse - “Tsk, tsk, Applejack, Applejack, what trouble you have gotten into.”

Blackarachnia stopped Big Mac from going much further, “How do you know Applejack?”

“Why” - Big Mac choked a little, clearing his throat to get back into character - “Why, I’m her cousin. She just doesn’t mention me a lot. Back to business relations, I would like to make a trade.”

“And what could you possibly offer us?” Big Mac turned as much as the tight corset allowed, finding Galgameth approaching him, inching his tubular snout at him.

“Why a two for one deal.” - Big Mac pointed to Darksteel first then to the door- “If you be so kind, my good man.”

With an irritated snarl, the Ursagryph grabbed the door handle, pulling it up to find a delivery truck displaying the logo to Flim Flam Brother’s Pawn Shop backing into the warehouse. With a clap, Flam pressed a button, flipping open the trailer shell open and revealing the cargo: the muddied Dapplewood caged separately from Fluttershy wrapped up with her wings.

“Fluttershy, Dapplewood!” The Rainbooms and Maximals shouted out.

“Is that their names?” - Big Mac put his hand to his chest - “My what poor things.”

As surprised as he is with the new arrivals, Skystalker raised a brow. “Not that I'm ungrateful, but I question how you were able to capture the most elusive of them at the time.”

“Why, I do declare.” Mac places his hand on Dapplewood’s cage. “This poor boy came up to my doorstep like this. I defended him against this demon, but I was no match for her. And I would have been dead for sure had the poor fellow not given the last of his strength.”

Hearing that, Fluttershy spread her wings and let out a long hiss.

Galgameth stroked his snout before motioning the drivers of the truck, Flim and Flam themselves.

“Bring them forward.”

“Hey, hey, hey!” - Flim zipped up to the cyborg, tipping his yellow hat - “Our client wants her sister back, but we are still her humble employees.”

Flam got into view as well, stroking his mustache, “Why for the price of two and our newly patented Double F Cologne, you can have your prizes.”

Galgameth aimed both of his arm cannons at the business men, Skystalker spinning them around, bringing them face to face with the rest of the Predacons. “Your proposal is illogical.”

“Hey, hey!” Flim wrapped an arm around the dragon - “We have a business to run and food to eat.”

“No such thing as a free lunch, you know.” Added Flam.

As the swindlers continued their business, Big Mac winked at the two new arrivals. Dapplewood nodded before stamping the floor of the cage. A hatch opened up at the front, releasing the Crusaders and Cosgrove as they crawled out and snuck towards the cage.

“Cosgrove?” - Asked Sunset as she leaned on the bars - “What are you doing here?”

“Busting you all out, what else?” He looked at the lock on the door. No number sliders and no key. But all is not lost as Apple Bloom brought a bolt cutter. The cage opened, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo rushed up, giving their sister and idol respectively a hug.

“So, do we have a deal?” Said both Brothers, stretching their arms to seal the deal.

Galgameth just stood motionless when Squirk looked back at the open truck. “Boss!”

Galgameth turned sharply, finding all of their captives hopping on the truck. Big Mac was quick to move to the driver’s seat, igniting the key and driving forward. Darksteel donned his beast mode, hooking his claws onto the door before slamming his beak through the glass and tearing away the wig. The beast widened his eyes at the discovery.

“Eeyup.” Big Mac gave him one strong punch to the face, sending him rolling down the road.

Now with none of the Rainbooms and Maximals in the cage, the Predacons groaned at the waste of effort they put in. The Flim Flam Brothers, on the other hand, took out a clipboard.

“Then there is the cost of transportation…” Flim wrote on the clipboard when the utensil got slashed in two by Chrysalis’ claws.

“Don’t just stand there!” Chrysalis turned to her Changeling Swarm - “Get them!”

The Rainbooms, Crusaders, and Maximals held on the walls of the trailer as the truck speed down the highway towards home. The former captives were each given half a Zap Apple, which they continuously chewed in sync, gradually feeling stronger as the ingested fruit churned in their bellies. Fluttershy chewed another half of an apple before she started to feel a sharp pain in her stomach. She held the bars, tearing up as her batlike ears became equine once more, her canines reduced to their original length, and the leather wings feathered as the fingers receded into the main limb. Rarity held onto the caretaker’s sniffling head.

“I’m… Okay…” Fluttershy looked up with her natural cyan eyes, confirming the change complete.

“So these Zap Apples brought y’all back to shape, huh?” Applejack turned over to her sister, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo.

“Yup!” Shouted Sweetie Belle

“I tried one and I already even feel like like I could fly several laps!” - Scootaloo’s face beamed at the idea for when they get home.

“And we have quite a few bushels of them to last a dozen Pred encounters.” - Apple Bloom held onto the handle strap.

Cosgrove took out his cell phone, dialing Twilight Sparkle’s number. “Twilight.”

Twilight picked up the phone, “Was the mission successful?”

“Yeah, we got all of them back and are now in perfect health. Can you send a Ground Bridge?”

The mission a success so far, Twilight plopped her derriere on the desk, sliding over to the control panel of the portal generator. “I’ll try, but for a moving object I have to generate it ten miles ahead of you.”

The usual sound of a vehicle bumping a little on the road was joined by a strange hum. “

What is that?” Questioned Pinkie Pie before she and Rainbow Dash opened the door.

Behind the speeding truck were Changelings. Many Changelings. A swarm so large that a few more could blot out the sun. Joining them were the Predacons; Galgameth and Blackarachnia lead the charge while Darksteel carried Caterina and Porcina, Skystalker carried Squirk and Rep.

Cosgrove brought the phone to his mouth again, “Try to make that five…”

Blackarachnia’s hovering wings clasped shut, falling head first in a sharp trajectory, surrounding herself in a red aura. The Changelings did the same, surrounding themselves with a slimy green aura, diving down much faster than the leading Predacon, hitting the asphalt in large splats.

Rarity’s ear flicked a little to the sound of a kazoo rendition of “Ride of the Valkyries before turning around.

“Pinkie Pie, this isn’t an appropriate time for silliness!”

Pinkie Pie stopped playing the tiny instrument, eying the others before releasing her lips. “Just wanting to lighten the mood.”

Rainbow Dash slammed the door on Blackarachnia’s advance, leaving a large dent it. Rainbow Dash kicked open the doors, sprouting out her wings, ears, and ponytail once more, ascending fast into the air towards her enemy encountered several times over now. Caterina and Porcina jumped onto the nearest Changelings before they descending towards the truck. Darksteel screeched at the challenge, clasping his wings against his body as he dove like a bullet. Agility restored however, Rainbow made a sharp turn, giving her a six-second gap before the Predacon could slow down. Rainbow spun back around and aimed a drop kick at the Ursagryph.

Blackarachnia spied Sunset, Rarity and Pinkie Pie taking a risk to climb up the trailer. She dove at them, being spotted by Pinkie Pie. “Incoming!” She shouted, pointing over to the charging mutant. Sunset Ponied Up, drawing forth a sea-green tendril, lashing out at her long enough for Zipper to fly over and scoop her up. Pursing her lips, Sunset climbed onto the top of the trailer, pulling up Rarity, who then pulled up Pinkie Pie. Ponying up as well, Rarity glowed blue before shooting out a series of rapid blasts. Pinkie Pie, by strange miracle, kept loading her miniature party cannon with a variety of pastries, smothering each Changeling with icing each blast.

Skystalker, Caterina, Porcina, and Squirk boarded the truck, attacking with full force. Chelsey donned her beast mode, ready to finish a fight that Sombra so kindly interrupted. And this time, she wasn’t alone. Scootaloo buzzed her wings, jumping up and kicking the back of the trailer. Rushing forth with a stretched fist, she punched the dragon on the snout, knocking a few teeth. While Scootaloo flight skill has been improving, turning was still the issue, and it was the quick reaction from the anthropomorphic therizinosaurid to grab the Crusader and pull her back in.

Porcina made three duplicates of herself, assuming a battle pose in front of the Apple Sisters.

“The real one’s in full color and is left handed.” Said Applejack before she and Apple Bloom rushed forth. The taller of the two lifted one of the duplicates, slamming it at the back of the cabin, drawing a turn from Big Mac as he focused on the road.

Squirk wrapped his tentacles around Diver’s body. The anthropomorphic crocodilian twisted and pulled, only to make the grip even tighter. Her neck exposed, the squid tilted his head up, inching his beak up to her. But as Rarity would put it, there is a method for getting out of situations like this. Diver bared her teeth before giving Squirk a good kick in the cojones, releasing her from the squid’s grip before grabbing his tentacles with her teeth and tearing them off.

Cosgrove’s phone buzzed again, but before he could pick it up, an invisible assailant pounced on him. In his struggle to get Rep off his back, he dropped the phone. Failing to pick it up, the call went to a voice message, much to the worry of Sci-Twi. Having something to grab, the Maximal flung the attacker against the wall. Rep’s snout was next to Dapplewood’s cage, taking a few sniffs of a foul odor.

“Ugh!” - Rep immediately stood straight up, turning green as he wrapped plugged his nostrils - “What is that smell?!”

His location revealed Dapplewood donned his beast mode, ramming the cage bars and tipping the cage on top of the chameleon. Dapplewood placed his right hand on the left palm, stroking his fingers before he climbed out of the cage.

“What… What was that supposed to mean?” Rep turned an eye over to a brief flash of yellow.

“Excuse me...” Cosgrove answered before kicking Rep in the face.

Back on top of the trailer, Sunset, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie continued the defense, shooting down several Changelings before they even got close to the moving truck. Zipper using some of the falling Changelings as projectiles against Blackarachnia. Darksteel in his rage unleashed his dragon fire upon Rainbow Dash, torching several of his soldiers in the process.

But amidst the distractions, Galgameth slammed on the truck and aimed a shot just behind Rarity and Pinkie Pie, sending them flying off the trailer. Pinkie grabbed on the trailer with one hand and held Rarity with the other.

“Hang on!” Shouted Pinkie Pie.

“What in God’s name do you think I’m doing?!” Retorted Rarity as the speed of the vehicle brought them almost horizontal.

Sunset turned around, seeing Galgameth pointing an arm cannon at her. The fire-haired teen lit up her magic, ready for another fight with the armored warrior.

“I think you had enough fights with the boss already.” - Galgameth looked back to the powered up Cosgrove glaring at him, ready for another fight - “You’re good with guns, what about your fists?”

Leaving the noise for the buzzing of Changelings, the battle inside the trailer and the screams of Rarity and Pinkie Pie, Galgameth drew back the weapons, drawing out instead a long sword from his right arm and a shield from his left. Cosgrove closed his fists, generating electricity up his arms. The two warriors charged at each other, Galgameth being the first to strike as he swung his sword, slicing off the top of his hair. Cosgrove returned with a swift left hook, leaving a dent on the boll weevil head. As sparks swerved around the Predacon’s head, Cosgrove continued with a series of jabs before being smacked to the side by the shield. Cosgrove looked up before jumping away from Galgameth’s jump strike.

“It’s the ultimate blend of man and machine!” - Galgameth swung his sword forward, cutting a hole into Cosgrove’s shirt - “My armor softens your blows, my ammo is unlimited” - He grabbed Cosgrove with his shielded arm - “And best of all” - Cosgrove clutched the swinging sword with the palm of his hands, drawing blood on the blade - “I don’t draw blood.”

Cosgrove gritted his teeth as the blade dug deeper into his hand. With both hands occupied, the Maximal could only look as Galgameth’s tail rose up, readying a stinger right at his forehead. But as fashionable a tail is, it can be a liability. And such is true when Sunset wrapped the tail in an aura, pulling him away.

“Tails,” - Cosgrove glowed a little, making a sharp spin and thwacking him off the truck - “you lose.”

One adversary gone, Sunset and Cosgrove lifted Pinkie Pie and Rarity respectively, the latter being left with a red handprint on her white arm. Cosgrove curled back as Rarity gave him a glare.

“Ground Bridge Ho!” Shouted Pinkie Pie.

The portal was indeed drawing ever closer. In the battle inside the truck was won as the Predacons abandoned ship. Darksteel and Blackarachnia also turned tail, fleeing with the Changeling swarm.

“Yee-haw!” - Apple Bloom triumphantly swung her arm up - “That’ll show them not to mess with my sister!”

“I don’t know, sugar cube.” - Applejack rubbed a finger on her chin - “This doesn’t look right.”

“Who cares?” - Rainbow Dash and Zipper landed on the trailer, the former curling her arms in delight - “We won!”

Just as they were three hundred feet away from salvation, a dark crystal erupted underneath the truck, flipping it over and sending its passengers flying. Those that fell the fastest were caught by Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy and Zipper as they swooped into the portal. The Predacons landed on the asphalt, watching the rift close before them. A moment of silence before the Preds began their journey back as Galgameth aimed a cannon at the truck, blasting it into kingdom come.

The other side of the portal lead to the green pastures of Sweet Apple Acres. But the landing was not smooth; The Rainbooms, Crusaders and the Maximals colliding on the ground, skidding to a stop on the grass as pair after pair piled up on each other.

Cosgrove's phone buzzed again, the owner placing it on speaker phone.

“Did everyone make it through?” Twilight asked, hearing a long agonizing groan from the other side in response.

A while after, Dapplewood was in his beast mode as the Crusaders washed the dirt off of him. Most of the others used a bucket to wash.

“Were we awesome or what!?” - Rainbow Dash shot off the ground, waving her fists in the air - “We beat those guys like they were Barry Bologna!”

Diver stopped scrubbing herself, turning around to the athlete, “You mean Caesar's Salami?”

“No, Barry Bologna!” Rainbow retorted in a more angry tone.

“Caesar's Salami!”

Many of the others laughed at the bantering couple. Sunset sat with Cosgrove on a haystack. The Maximal chewed another slice of Zap Apple, flexing his hand as the wound healed.

“Welcome back, Cosgrove.” Sunset nudged his shoulder.

“And in the nick of time too.” Cosgrove looked to the outside world “We’ll need to be in full force now if we are to win this time.”

Sunset was about to continue the conversation when she felt a buzz in her backpack. She took out the journal, flipping it over to the most recent page she wrote.

Please refrain from using the Portal as a dumping ground.
Sunset Shimmer.

“Well, guess we can’t send our enemies away.” Sunset closed the book. They’ll have to find another way to defeat their enemies, and soon before their conflicts reach the news channel.

The following evening at the abandoned warehouse, Heka burnt a prod before passing it to Galgameth. With a quick jab, he burned the Predacon insignia onto Porcina’s arm. She rubbed the wound, watching it glow violet as she and the other anointed Predacons looked up, finding Chrysalis and Sombra looking down at them.

“This is your home now.” - Sombra pointed down at his supersoldiers - “You will serve us, please us and you will be rewarded, disappoint us...” - Chrysalis snapped her fingers, making the Changelings surround them, baring their teeth - “What says you?”

A long moment of silence followed when Blackarachnia was the first to answer with a long drawn out hiss, followed by Porcina squealing loud. Soon the entire warehouse echoed with the battle screams of the Predacons. Sombra and Chrysalis curled a toothy grin. They have a menagerie of super soldiers and a whole hive of drones. A miracle will our heroes need when things go too far.

Strike up the Sands

View Online

Inside Canterlot High, the Crusaders sat in the chairs next to Principal Celestia's office. They shuffled their hands around, tapping their pants (or in Sweetie Belle’s case, skirt). Scootaloo got up and paced around, stopping a moment or two to look at the office door, watching the silhouettes of the people conversing inside.

Scootaloo’s pacing stopped at the clicking of the doorknob. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle stood up as Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Celestia, and Luna walked out of the office. The two tall women looked down at the three Sophomores with crossed arms.

“To be fair, what you three have done was inexcusable.” Celestia raised a brow “But, in light of recent events, your punishment has been lifted.”

Sweetie Belle was about to cheer when Apple Bloom placed a hand on her, shaking her head.

“But,” Luna raised her arm, waving her finger at them “should you ever post information like that again, you will be expelled. Is that understood?”

A moment of silence, the Crusaders took a deep breath.

“Yes, M'am.” they answered

The two principals watched as their students left the office. The taller of the two turned back to the office door when she heard cheering outside. She shook her head in amusement before returning to her work.

Back outside, Applejack picked up her phone, dialing the number to the HUB.

“We got the Crusaders back.” Applejack winced back at Pinkie’s loud cheering blaring from the other side of the line.

Sunset drove around town looking around for any signs of their new enemies.

“That’s great.” - Sunset released the left handlebar pressing into a comlink in her helmet - “Any sign of them?”

Zipper, once again soaring on leather wings, looking down at the overhead of the city. No sign of burning buildings or any hybrid creatures. “I’vegotnothing.” - He answered - “Gotanythingdownthere, Cosgrove?”

Standing at the edge of the city, Cosgrove watched for any suspicious vehicles. Not even an unmarked eighteen wheeler. “No one has shown up yet.”

“Really,” - Rainbow Dash walked over to her motorcycle - “I’ve been itching for another fight with Darksteel all day.”

Rarity and Sweetie Belle rode in their car, the former listening via a car phone option on the radio. “What is with you wanting to fight Darksteel, Rainbow?”

“Hey, anyone with a sense of determination, I can respect.” The athlete hopped onto her motorcycle, revving it up before riding away.

Back at the HUB, Twilight watched the radar, no magical presence outside of the city either. If they, for the most part, have magic coming out of them, it would be seen in the warehouse.

“Either they have made some kind of jammer or that is some part of their manufactured ability, we’ll never know until they make a move.”

“And when they do,” - Chelsey rang from another comlink as she fed Tex a slice of Zap Apple, regaining his broken limb as he chewed on the morsel - “We’ll be ready.

Back underground, Sadira and Trixie, now joined by Snips and Snails, traverse through the now damaged tunnels.

“Ugh, Great and Powerful Trixie?” - Asked Snails, curling back his skinny body as the darkness of the tunnels became ever darker - “Shouldn’t we even be here?”

“Yeah,” - Snips added, lifting up the collar of his scissor adorned shirt around his nose - “the stench is a little much.”

“Rest assured, faithful friends” - Trixie addressed, turning her upper body to address her closest friends - “When we acquire the knowledge of magic, then we shall be as powerful as Rainboom and Maximal combined.”

“Okay, let’s get something straight” - Sadira turned her head, looking a little peeved - “this kind of magic is not the same as from the ones you call ‘Rainbooms’ or ‘Maximals.’ It won’t give you wings or horns, not even make your ears larger.”

Trixie paused, squinting one of her eyes as she took in the talk. “Then what magic is it?”

Sadira poured a small amount of sand into her hand, wiggling her her fingers to combine the loose grains of sand into a solid cube.

“Sand?” - Trixie’s squinted eye began to twitch as had her upper lip, showing a small sliver of her teeth - “So, Trixie just fell into the sewer, released you, came back down” - She turned to her side, showing off the stitches on her blue leg - “had one of those things scratch my leg just to learn how to make a sandcastle?!”

The yell echoed across the damaged tunnels, Snips and Snails curled back as Trixie stood straight up, looking furious at the sand witch. Sadira expected this much. After all, her first attempt at getting Aladdin to fall for her ended in disappointment (and almost got them killed).

“After we gather the remaining scrolls, if you want to back away now, be my guest.” Sadira continued down the tunnels, ignoring the magician cursing under her own breath before she and her accomplices joined her. The chamber has been damaged as well due to the vibrations of the explosion, but not so bad as to bury it completely under rubble. Storing the remaining scrolls in a satchel, the four made their journey back to the exit when four spires blocked the passageway.

“Hello, deary…”

Sadira turned at the hauntingly familiar voice, finding the same three people she had fought for several centuries, two of whom bared their sharp teeth.

“But, it can’t be!” - Sadira pointed to the lid to the Realm of Mists - “The portal-!”

“The seal of the lid takes time to gain strength” - with a wave of their hands, Risley and Furrita encased the four visitors in solidified sand

“The Staff of Doom has been broken,” - Shakata turned over, holding the two ends of the skeletal staff - “our magic alone will not repair it fully.” - The lead Hecate turned to Trixie, intrigued by her blue skin as well as that of Snips and Snails - “Perhaps your modern friend has the means.”

“Great and Powerful as she is, Trixie lacks the skills necessary skills to repair this.” The magician watches Shikata relax her eyelids and lips, turning around to leave her captives to their fate “But she knows who else might.” Trixie looks at Snips and Snails “But you will need a little more help.”

A few hours later, a large boom is heard from the foothills of the plaza. Near his car, Cosgrove turned his police scanner to related news.

“Breaker, breaker! We got a confirmation of an explosion at the Plaza Playground.”

Without a moment too soon, now in full force once more, a majority of our heroes ran through a Ground Bridge portal to the park. Several spires of solid sand darted across the area, destroying a few of the attractions and one commissioned sculpture. The people responsible continued their rampage when a series of opal and blue blasts rained down, getting their attention.

“Well, well,” - Risley turned around, baring her teeth - “it appears that our enemies have taken the bait.”

Furrita chuckled as she also turned to the avenging heroes, “Shall we, sister?”

With a hideous cackle, the two witches spread their arms, building up sand to form a two-headed serpent. While the Maximals in the field fought the non-living being, the Rainbooms focused their attention on the witches. Rainbow Dash ascended as high as she could in the air before clasping her wings to her side and diving towards them, arms stretched forward as she readied to grab the two witches off the ground and cutting them off from their power. Rarity showered a few blasts up above, a mistake that ruined the athlete’s opportunity when Risley and Furrita shielded themselves from the above blasts. But trying to control a sand beast and protecting themselves left an opening that was quickly exploited with Pinkie Pie’s Party Cannon.

A distance away, a Changeling drone was spying on them from the branches of a tree before lighting his horn. “Drone 64302 to Chrysalis.”

Inside an empty cave, their new base of operations, Chrysalis heard her beckon and answered with a glow of her crooked horn. “Chrysalis answers your call.”

“Our enemies are engaged with another using an unknown type of magic. What are your orders?”

Intrigued by the mentioning of an unknown magic, Chrysalis tapped her chin. “Continue the investigation, report back to me at sundown.”

Back at the HUB, Twilight Sparkle, The Crusaders, and Dapplewood stood by, hearing the grunts and yelps of their companions as the dueled with the Witches of the Sand.

“Go get ‘em, Rainbow Dash!” Shouted Scootaloo as she made a few jabbing motions.

The intercom “coughed” a little before announcing, “Twilight, prepare the Ground Bridge.”

Hearing his brother's voice, Dapplewood triumphantly shot a fist into the air. With our heroes in full force, nothing can stop them now. As Twilight punched the coordinates for a new ground bridge, Apple Bloom spotted the doors of the HUB open on their own before the front end was lifted up and shaken rapidly, forcing them off.

“What in the” - Apple Bloom’s eyes widened as a pair of gigantic shadows loomed over them - “Criminently…”

Before them stood a pair of mutates. To their right was a golden brown werewolf with blue hair on his head. To their left was a snapping turtle two-thirds the size of his partner. Both had a small horn on their animal heads. Towering over them, the colors and their proportions rang a few bells.

“Snips, Snails?” Sweetie Belle looked at the two mutates as they looked at them with sorrowful eyes “Not you too!”

“Sorry,” Snails said in a deep voice “but it was that or Trixie would get it.”

Though she learned the common knowledge that Trixie gets into trouble, Twilight nonetheless asked, “What’s wrong with her?”

Snips prepares to answer them when a loud ringing noise blared in their heads. Their cries of pain soon muted before lifting their heads at them, eyes glowing red as they snarled. Dapplewood was quick to put on the shades, for without warning the two beasts came charging at them. Dodging the strike of Snails’ claws, the Maximal rammed the wolf in the knee. Snails yelped as he held his leg, leaving the other leg to be lassoed by Apple Bloom. With a quick tug, the werewolf was brought down.

“Hello? Hello!?” - Far away again, Sunset’s attempt at contacting them resulted in static. Taking her finger off the comlink, she groaned - “Looks like we walk.”

“Heh, heh!” Risley chuckled, getting their attention before she and her sister turned into sand, disappearing with a gust of wind. Realizing they have been played, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Zipper took to the skies.

Back at the HUB, the feral Snips jumped into the air, retracting his arms, legs, and head as he slammed his spiky carapace onto the ground. Being anthropomorphic, the snapping turtle drew out his arms and pushed himself out of the ground. Sweetie Belle fired a few quick blasts singing parts of his blue skin, a testament to a few months of practice. Snips lit up his horn before retracting his limbs and head, flopping down on the plastron before shooting out light violet-gray streams and spinning around wildly. Snails jumped onto the spinning terrapin, using his claws to swipe at the Crusaders and Dapplewood, knocking them out cold. In the madness, the werewolf spotted Twilight communicating with the others.

“Guys! Snips and Snails, they’re- Agh!” The last words she said before she was swept up by Snails and carried away, joined up with Snips.

A long moment of darkness before a sliver of light entered a person’s world.

“Follow the light,” Sunset asked as she held a flashlight at Scootaloo. The Crusader turned her eyes to the other three children knocked out. Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom did a few minor exercises to recover their wounds. Pinkie Pie teased the unconscious Dapplewood into waking up with the smelling salt, getting a slap from his brother and a glare from the awoken Maximal.

“Not the best words to say…” Scootaloo groaned as she stood up, holding her stomach before being given a slice of zap apple.

Dapplewood waved his arms around, illustrating the slim and bulky proportions of Snails and Snips respectively before circling placing his hands on his eyes.

“Mind controlled?” - Chelsey wrapped her index finger around her mouth - “Must it be something to do with those witches?”

“Quite so.” - Rarity answered with a snap of her fingers - “Their magic style is completely different from ours.”

“Snips and Snails mentioned Trixie being in some kind of trouble.” Added Apple Bloom as she was given another slice of Zap Apple - “They never told us where she was before they gone rabid.” - Applejack gave her sister a glare, making her bow droop - “So to speak.”

“Then we split into two teams.” - Sunset pointed to Fluttershy - “Fluttershy, you, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Chelsey, and Tex search Trixie’s home. The rest of you, with me.”

“You have an idea where she could be, boss?” Asked Cosgrove

Sunset turns to the general direction of the town bazaar, a finger on her chin. “Possibly.”

Shakata held Twilight in a hardened shell of sand as she held the broken Staff of Doom. The scientist awoke, seeing Trixie and Sadira in another cage. Looking the other way, Twilight found Risley toying with her glasses.

“Now, child.” Shikata approached Twilight “I have been told of your curiosity of magic.” She drew a nail at the scientist’s throat “Perhaps you can put your skill to the test when you restore the staff.”

Remembering about what her curiosity has done, Twilight sputtered, “no.”

The Hecate lowered her eyes again, fondling Twilight’s Crystal Prep uniform. “These modern times have softened the magic users of today.”

Shikata snapped her fingers, releasing Twilight, Sadira, and Trixie from their holds, lifting up the second by her neck. “Then I suggest you supervise her the entire way.”

Back down at the sewers, half of the squad walked down the sewers. Cosgrove looked to his right to find the destroyed tunnels. “So this is where it happened? The Predacons and all?”

“It was really one hell of a fight.” Answered Rainbow Dash as she made a few jabbing motions.

Sunset’s comlink buzzed, “Sunset, darling. We have found something that may pique your interest.”

The leader of the party placed her pointer finger on the comlink. “Fire away.”

Back at Trixie’s establishment, Rarity's team held several scrolls in their arms. The fashionista herself held one, reading the unfamiliar dialect.

“These appear to be of Arabic origin.”

Hearing this in the comms, Applejack added, “And the one who has the highest grade in that class…”

“Trixie Lulamoon.” They all said, the echo concealing the echoing steps of a mutate mammal.

“More of a reason to help her, Twilight-” Diver’s comment was interrupted when Snips burst out of the sewer water, roaring at his enemies. Snails dropped from the ceiling of the tunnel behind them, the echo of his howl reaching the chamber of the witches.

“We have company.” Said Furrita, emphasizing with a massive smile.

“Looks like we’ll have to do this the hard way.” Said Rainbow Dash as she led Cosgrove, Diver, and Zipper against the controlled Snips and Snails.

“Ponying up”, Cosgrove arched himself against the werewolf, gnashing his ape-like teeth on Snail's scruff. Snails, have a more suitable set of teeth crunched on the Maximal’s shoulder, flipping his ears to his screams of pain. Rainbow Dash was quick enough to pull Snails away, leaving a set of teeth marks on Cosgrove's shoulder. The werewolf grabbed Rainbow’s leg, pulling her to the ground. Before Snails could sink his teeth into her wing, Cosgrove turned into his more feral state, slapping his spiny tail on the beast and sensing crashing along the wall.

Snips and Diver took to the water, splashing about as their similar sized armored bodies met with teeth and claws. In one blow, Snips swatted Diver into the water. Zipper hovered over the honorary Illusion, dragging the snapping turtle and scraping his head long enough for Diver to clutch her jaws around his leg. With a mild version of the death roll, Snips was sent into the water.

Sunset and Applejack used the opportunity to reach the chamber, finding Twilight working with “witch-crafted” welding equipment as she fused the Staff of Doom. Trixie, reciting an incantation, helped contain the staff together. Sunset looked down, noticing the sandy floor. With their foes being sand based, stepping on it would trigger their presence.

“I can’t use my lasso on them again,” Applejack whispered, pointing a finger at the witches “they’ll just become sand again.”

Sunset rubbed her chin, trying to come up with a plan. The witches are sand based, that’s one fact. Sand is silica based; when wet, it can be stuck together. When heated up…. Sunset immediately snapped her fingers.

A dreaded mistake. The echo ringing in the chamber alerted the witches, turning their attention to the intruders at the entrance.

“Damn.” Sunset muttered before a pair of makeshift limbs grabbed her and Applejack, pulling them before Shikata.

“It was only a matter of time before you would come for your violet and blue friends.” - Shikata waves her hand over to her slaves - “You are in our home, in our element.”

Twilight looked back, seeing her captive rescuers. Beneath the bound arms, Sunset motioned Twilight to get ready. “You are forgetting one thing,” - Sunset shifted her eyes a little, finding Twilight motioning Sadira to change the welding torch to a blowtorch - “you’re all way out of your time.”

Twilight aimed the tool at the witches, burning parts of their clothes. Reeling in pain, Sunset and Applejack were released before the former drew out her magic, firing at the displaced grains of sand around them at such a heat that the silica became fused and translucent.

“No! You fools!” Drawing as much unscathed sand they have left, Risley and Furrita lashed out tendrils of sand before Twilight aimed the blowtorch, solidifying them into glass. One such tendril got just close enough to touch a lock of Applejack’s hair.

“Insolent cur!” Shikata slapped Twilight away, drawing as much sand as she could to form a spear.

Back to Trixie and Sadira, the former’s incantation managed to complete the Staff of Doom. Grabbing it, the latter ran to the closed portal. “Seal to the Realm of Mists, I bid you open!”

The seal disappeared once more, releasing red smoke as it seeped through the seemingly bottomless pit. Trixie and Sadira then turned to Shikata, seeing her aim her spear at Twilight. The young witch ran up to her, swinging her staff and sending her down the pit. This time, she wasn’t caught by the foot and hanging for her life. Furrita and Risley, having just seen their leader fallen, began to retaliate when a sea green aura wrapped around the two witches. Applejack ponied up, lifted the witches up and threw them down the pit. Furrita grabbed Applejack by her extended ponytail, landing her back on the glass floor. Sunset and Twilight pinned themselves onto her. “Applejack, call off your powers!” Said Sunset as she struggled to keep a foothold.

Doing just that, the witch’s grip fell through the disappearing hair, sending her back into the abyss once more.

“Portal, Close!” Shouted Sadira, sealing the portal again before snapping the staff in two once more.

In the sewers, Snails had Rainbow Dash pinned against the wall, beak dripping in salive as he inches to her throat. As the athlete prepared for the worst, she felt the hot breath becoming less before opening an eye. The werewolf’s eyes were no longer glowing, feeling remorse as he let her go. Snails turned to the water, finding Snips in a similar predicament before Diver got the jump on him.

A while later, Sadira and Trixie were reading the scrolls. “These aren’t spells, but riddles to the locations of magical artifacts.” Sadira pointed over to the Ground Bridge “I’m certain such travel can be done with that.”

“I’ll have to make some tweaks, though. That little fight on the highway was the farthest I have gotten a bridge.” - Said Twilight as she also looked at the ground bridge - “And since we haven’t found any Predacon signatures…”

Chelsey looked around suspiciously, “They’ll want one of those relics as well.”

True to her hunch, the Changeling that was spying on them reported back to Chrysalis, saying every single detail to Chrysalis.

“Then, we have a hunt to do.” - Chrysalis turned to her pet - “Continue to spy on them, we will need to make similar travel arrangements.”

Chrysalis walked further down the cave, stopping at the sight of a much larger cocoon. Inside was a much larger man. Like the Predacons, he too is growing animal features, in this case, a mountain goat. Chrysalis turned around to address her team, entering the darkening cave. Back at the cocoon, the germinating subject’s eyes opened, glowing red.

Relic Hunt Part 1: The Gauntlet/Maximal No More

View Online

A day has passed since rescuing Trixie, and much work has been done. Of course, there was still the issue of Snips and Snails being mutated, but their parents have been told. Unlike the Maximals, their DNA hasn’t been contaminated, but for the moment, they could be of use. With Sadira translating the original Arabic language of the scrolls, Trixie wrote three of the scrolls in the English language.

“Trixie better get the honor roll for this.” Said the Magician as she continued to write the translation.

Back at the portal, Sunset, Applejack, and Twilight were making adjustments to the Ground Bridge. Two of the translated scrolls called out for locations farther away than they would usually bridge.

Twilight placed a few newer dashboards, “These should help expand the range of the bridge, as well as generate portals faster.”

Sunset modified and added several lines of code, turning some lines from red to blue, “Code has been stabilized.” - Sunset turned to the others - “Though we cannot precisely warp us to the exact location, we will get you as close as possible. We will have to divide into teams."

Sunset turned to Pinkie Pie. “Pinkie, Rarity, Fluttershy, Chelsey, and Diver, you will be going to Crystal City.”

“Crystal City?!” Rarity exclaims “The most glorious city this side of the river?!”

Rarity squealed a little as her eyes rolled back, being caught by Chelsey as she collapsed.

Cosgrove had his arms crossed, gaining Diver’s attention. “What’s up, Cosgrove?” She asked.

“It’s just that, we could have accomplished more if we hadn’t been so harsh on Cogsworth.” Cosgrove watched as everyone took a look at him, including the formerly unconscious Rarity. After all, the Crusaders were the ones that caused the problem, the Rainbooms abandoned Twilight, and it the Maximals that finished the ordeal on a sour note.

“Tell you what,” - Applejack placed her hand on his shoulder - “when this whole treasure huntin’ is done, we’ll apologize, the whole lot of us.”

“Here, here.” Agreed Rarity as the others agreed as well.

“But in the meantime, Cosgrove.” - Sunset took out the second scroll - “You, Applejack, Apple Bloom, Zipper, and Scootaloo are going to Ashley Valley.”

“Whoa, isn’t that the place you were…?” Scootaloo’s answer was met with Cosgrove nodding.

“Tex, you, Sweetie Belle, Dapplewood, Snips, and Snails stay with Twilight.”

“Aw, come on!” - Sweetie Belle complained - “Why do I have to stay here while Apple Bloom and Scootaloo go out?”

“Because Sweetie, darling.” - Rarity lowered herself to her sister’s size - “You’re the only one left who can cast magic.”

“What about Sunset?” Sweetie Belle asked again.

“From what I heard, Rainbow Dash and I will be-.” Sunset was interrupted when a white piece of paper was shoved against her cheek.

“And Trixie!” - Exclaimed the magician as she waved the paper - “You owe her this much!”

“Really?” - Rainbow Dash placed a finger on her cheek - “After we saved you from Roma Candle,”

“Trixie paid that at the Fall Formal!” The magician lashes out.

Pinkie Pie jumped on top of Rainbow Dash, much to the athlete’s discomfort, “Cosgrove stitching up your leg.”

“She gave you the location of those beasts’ lair!” Trixie pushed Pinkie on the head, tipping her and Rainbow Dash on the floor.

“And us saving your keister from those witches.” Added Applejack.

With a smug look, Trixie grabbed the other two translated papers, wiggling them at the farmer’s face.

In defeat, Sunset snorted, “Fine, just don’t be in the way.”

“I better be prepared.” Whispered Fluttershy as she checked her backpack.

“Fluttershy’s right.” Added Chelsey.

A distance away, the Changeling spying on them transferred the conversation over to Chrysalis, gaining the attention of Sombra and the Predacons.

“The group being split into three?” - Sombra whispered, sending chills up Squirk’s body - “I’ll take care of the ones going to Crystal City.”

Chrysalis raised an eyebrow before looking at Skystalker and Blackarachnia, “Then I’ll take care of the ones going to Ashley Valley.”

“No!” - Chrysalis turned to find Galgameth before her - “I’ll take care of the ones going to Ashley Valley.”

Sombra shot a glare at the cyborg before walking up to him, “If I recall, you couldn’t handle the ones named Sunset and Cosgrove at the same time.” - The mineral infused human pointed at him - “What makes you think you can do better the next time?”

“Because I made a few modifications to the armor since then.” He said, opening a small slot on his abdomen to show a reflective diamond.

A few hours later, another ground bridge was open, sending in Applejack, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, Cosgrove, and Zipper.

“Be on your guard...” Sunset asked of them as they entered their destination.

“You still sure that we’d want to bring Trixie along?” Rainbow Dash asked again as she put on a motocross helmet.

“As long as she stays out of the way” - Sunset put on a helmet as well - “we’ll do just fine.” - Mounting her motorcycle, now fitted with a sidecar, she turned around - “You ready, Trixie?”

Sunset and Rainbow Dash’ eyes widened at the sight of Trixie. Rather than fit her in the sidecar, Trixie instead sat on an orange moped, fashioned with several steering wheel decals, striped seating, and a license plate with GAP labeled on it.

“Trixie has a sense of style.” She chuckled, not much to their amusement as they entered the portal.

While not much colder than the Centennial State, The Treasure State is still cold for a Spring Day. Trixie was not as fortunate as to bring heavier clothing aside from her sweater.

“Wanna turn back now, Trix?” Said Rainbow Dash as she looked at the magician.

“Trixie despises this climate.” - She answered with a shiver - “Had the man that sired her taken her to stay in the fancy little home in Hawaii, she wouldn’t be in this mess with you.”

Hearing the word “sired” in the context Trixie spoke of sent shivers up Sunset’s spine as they continued their drive towards their destination, Helena City. In today’s day and age, PalmPilots are not unique, but they still hold a purpose. Rainbow Dash held one in her hand as she read the digital scanning of the translated scroll.

“This piece of paper said that the glove is displayed in a museum somewhere. Problem is,” - Rainbow’s arms became limp as she looked at the surrounding area - “we have no idea what museum!”

“Oh, the museum?” - Said one of the passing citizens as she pointed over to a square building - “It’s over there.”

The three out of towners turned to the museum, walking through the galleries ranging from Jack Horner’s Wankel Rex (a name that Rainbow chuckled) to a small Easter Island head displayed in a glass case. Trixie then found a brown glove with Islamic writing on the trim.

“Trixie has found the jackpot.” She whispered, drawing a large grin as she supported herself on the glass.

“Ma'am, please don’t touch the glass.” Warned a security guard, putting the magician on edge.

While in the loudest area of the museum, Sunset took out her phone, disguising the fact that she was using the comlink on her other ear. “Twilight, I need read out of the security systems.” - The only thing she could hear is static, so he tapped again - “Twilight?”

In the security hall, the manager found that the cameras were buzzing out as well. He takes out his walkie-talkie, “Attention all security, we need to escort the guests.”

“Attention, everyone.” - Shouted one of the security guards on duty, bringing the guests to attention when black smoke began to seep into the hall. The guests looked astonished at this weird phenomenon… Until a Changeling plucked a security guard into the smoke.

“Go, go! Get out of here!” Shouted Rainbow Dash, getting everyone to flee out of the museum doors as fast as they can with each guard being plucked one by one by the Changelings. Rising out of the smoke as well were Skystalker, Blackarachnia, and Chrysalis.

“How did they know we were here?!” Exclaimed Sunset.

“Your question is logical.” explained the logical dragon as he aimed a freeze canon in the floor tiles in front of them, shattering the floor with a stomp of his legs. Unfortunately, that doesn’t account for Rainbow Dash hovering in the air, holding Sunset and Trixie with both arms.

“Your action wasn’t.” Grunted Rainbow Dash as she flung the two onto the floor.

Calling her magic once more, Sunset fires at Skystalker. Though not as tough as his partner, Darksteel, the cybernetic dragon easily predicted each attack, coming closer and closer to her before clutching her by the throat. With only a few seconds before expiring, Sunset charged as much magic as she could, sending Skystalker and a few Changelings flying with a massive pulse that shattered many of the display cases. The gauntlet was just nine feet away from Trixie. Amidst the chaos of Changelings fighting a couple of magic empowered teenagers, the magician shuffled her way to the glove, reaching out as a dark, chitinous foot pinned her blue hand.

“And where do you think you are going, child?” Chrysalis hissed as she leaned down, baring her teeth as they ooze green saliva.

Without warning, Trixie threw a few smoke bombs at the Changeling Queen’s eyes. Reeling in pain, opportunity knocked once more as Trixie grabbed the gauntlet and ran towards the door. Rubbing the mixture of chemicals off her eyes, Chrysalis found the magician rushing out of the museum and towards her moped.

“Get them!” She shouted, bringing her experiments to attention as they flew out of the building.

Foot on the gas pedal, Trixie sped as fast as she could out of the city. But alas a moped is not as fast as a motocross cycle and the swarm of Changelings soon caught up to her. Clasping their wings against their bodies, the darkened beasts quickly descended to the asphalt floor, creating two-meter wide pot holes upon landing.

“Faster, you pathetic excuse for transportation!!” She berated to her lifeless moped as Trixie swerved around every crater. One Changeling made its luck as it fell right in front of the speeding vehicle, sending Trixie flying forward, scratching her face upon landing.

Now she was surrounded by the bugs, Trixie watches as one of them got close enough to grab her, ready to sink its teeth into her blue throat. Her hand touching the relic, the magician put on the glove, aimed it at the Changeling, and fired a black magic that sent the beast flying. The other Changelings were dumbfounded at this development, for every other instance, magic bearers either developed Equine or Saurian features.

The Magician drew a toothy grin before aiming the gauntlet at them, “Now behold, the Great and Powerful Trixie!”

Without a third ally, Sunset defended herself against Chrysalis and Blackarachnia. One moment she was making lashes against the Changeling Queen before being snatched a good distance away from her by Blackarachnia. Rainbow Dash would then grab the mutated human, flinging her to the T. rex skeletal mount and shattering it into pieces. Chrysalis aimed a green blast at the mage when her ears picked up the sound of emergency vehicles, as well as both Blackarachnia and Skystalker.

“This isn’t over…” She hissed before ascending into the air with two of her cronies. Sunset and Rainbow quickly did the same, speeding a good distance out of the city when the police arrived.

“Okay, now how are we going to find Trixie?” Asked Rainbow Dash when a blackened explosion is seen in the distance.

“That answer your question?” Sunset asked back before ducking her head as a Changeling flew over her. They then stopped their motorcycles when another of the brutes fell in front of them, ignoring the two as it scurried in fear. The two riders looked forward, finding Trixie placing her boot on an unconscious Changeling, looking at the relic accessory.

“Trixie is the highest level human!” She boasted, curling her fist before laughing a somewhat masculine laugh, in which she pursed her lips and took off the glove.

Their part of the mission accomplished, Sunset tapped into her com again. “Twilight, Twilight? Are you back online?” Hearing static once again, Sunset tried the others “Rarity? Cosgrove?”

“Sunset, I read you loud and clear…” Said Cosgrove.

“Oh, good. What’s your status?”

“The enemy has taken the relic. And, Galgameth….”

Sunset furrowed a brow, “What about him?”

...

Ashley Valley, Utah. A few hours earlier

Compared to their mountain town, Ashley Valley was more sparse. Only at the city and waterways was there any vegetation.

“So this is it, my old home….” - Cosgrove’s voice narrated as they traversed the city - “I’ve never thought it to be this hot, and empty.”

“Not to mention it’s one of the possible locations of the Great Valley!”

Hearing the voice of an absent Pinkie Pie so crisp stopped Applejack, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Cosgrove in their tracks, looking around as to where the sound came from.

“Pinkie,” - Scootaloo buzzed in a comlink - “did you just talk to us just now?”

“Nope!” Pinkie chimed in the complete opposite of the answer the retrieval unit.

They continued their journey to retrieve the relic. According to the digitized version of the scroll, it was a large jewel. According to legend, the jewel was the fossilized eyeball of the desert demon Fashoom, who would terrorize the Seven Deserts and amass a treasure from a thousand caravans. Since then, the gem has been a traveling exhibit. And now, the museum in question now removed the museum.

Applejack tapped into her comlink, buzzing the girls and boys back home, “Bad news, the jewel has been moved to another location.”

“Don’t fret just yet, Applejack.” - Twilight answered - “Moving exhibits are stored in a facility near the museum itself. There should be one just on the outskirts of the city.”

“Much appreciated. AJ out.” Applejack took her finger off her ear when she heard Cosgrove sneeze again.

“Geeze, Cosgrove,” - Said Zipper - “thisisthefifteenthtimeyousneezed!”

The watery-eyed Maximal rubbed his nose, “Sorry…” - he sniffled - “must be this desert air.”

From a great distance of the city, Galgameth, with Darksteel and Caterina beside him, monitored the voice frequencies. Hearing the mentioning of Cosgrove sneezing, Galgameth looks around the desolate landscape.

“For the most part, the air.” - His optics changed from yellow to violet, finding several hundred thousand pathogens that he promptly contained in a small jar - “but it’s what in the air that ails you.”

They waited until later in the evening before continuing their excursion. Hoping to avoid the security cameras at the edges of the storage facility, they tried one of their more unorthodox schemes. In the middle of the facility, the gravel was disturbed, erupting into a large molehill before a yellow snout jutted up, snorting out the sediment as he pulled his repto-mammalian body to the surface, leaving a massive hole as Applejack, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo pulled themselves up from underground.

“And I couldn’t be with Zipper why?” Asked Scootaloo

Cosgrove sneezed again, shaking the dust off his massive body before reverting to his normal state, joining with Applejack one way around the establishment, her sister and Scootaloo the other way. The Apple and the Thunderfoot looked at each containment unit, eventually finding a container with the label, “To be moved to the Natural History Museum, New York.”

“How nice, you’ve let the cat not do the dirty work this time.” - The two turned to the source of the purring voice. Caterina walked out of the shadows, stretching her claws as she licked her chops. Her two enemies assumed a battle stance when the feline’s partner jumped on the container, drawing a shadow on them as the Ursagryph lit up his mouth.

With just a bit of her hair singed from the blast, Applejack took out her lasso and threw it at the feline. Caterina tried to remove the rope with her claws, but the fact that this is an enchanted rope, courtesy of the Equestrian Applejack, made this all but impossible. But the agile feline opted for her feet instead, leaving bad slash marks on AJ’s denim clothing.

Cosgrove once again had to fight Darksteel, and this time, he was playing it smart. The Ursagryph would charge at the Maximal, who would then dodge, making the Predacon slam into a container. One time, one of the containers above the one would fall on top of Darksteel.

“Twilight! We got the relic! Send for a-!” Before he could finish, Cosgrove is immediately smacked aside by a cybernetic bear paw.

A further distance away, Apple Bloom and Scootaloo heard the conflict and began their run to aid. Turning a corner they came across the third assailant as he aimed a couple plasma cannons straight at them.

“And where do you think you’re going,” - the plasma cannons glowed violet - “Anon-a-miss?”

Apple Bloom’s eyes widened when their eyes in the sky swooped down and grabbed the cyborg, dragging him far enough away from the two Crusaders before Galgameth pulled him down. The sophomore farmer watched the winged Maximal claw his way off the robot and quickly ascending into the air.

“C’mon, Apple Bloom!” Shouted Scootaloo, taking Apple Bloom by the hand as they rushed to Applejack and Cosgrove’s aid.

Dodging the blasts of the plasma cannon, Zipper dove at Galgameth, clasping the guns against the cyborg’s body with one pair of wings and keeping the boll weevil snout away with another, lighting parts of the warehouse on fire. The hybrid raised his head, making several aimless jabs at the head, poking out one of the optics in a lucky shot. Galgameth opened up his chest cavity, gathering as much energy as he could before firing a spiral of light. Zipper was sent flying back, slamming hard against the container behind him. With the remaining optic flickering back on, the cyborg stepped forward, looking down as the pterosaur coughed up blood while steam rose from his burnt chest.

Caterina managed to rush around Applejack so fast that the lasso wrapped around her body. With no way to move her arms, Applejack only watched as the mutated feline opened her mouth, ready to sink her teeth into her throat.

“Get yer paws off my sister!!” Apple Bloom called out before rushing forward and giving Caterina a hard flying kick, spinning Applejack free (though it made her dizzy). The younger of the two then grabbed the rest of the rope and hogtied Caterina, inching her hands up and down to avoid the snapping teeth. “You're much worse than Opalescence.”

The more heavily built Darksteel had Cosgrove pinned down, ready to finish a fight that was interrupted a month ago by the entirety of the Rainbooms, Crusaders, and Maximals. Buzzing her wings, Scootaloo parkoured off a container and drop kicked the Ursagryph on the back. Cosgrove used the momentum to lift Darksteel by his hind legs, rolling and pinning him on his back.

“Lights out!” He said before pounding the Ursagryph in the face, knocking him out.

The four protagonists huffed and puffed before Applejack answered her comlink, “Twilight, send us a darn portal already.” - All she could hear is static - “Twi? Any of y’all answering this?”

“Your friends aren’t coming.” - The entire gang turned around, finding Galgameth dragging the unconscious Zipper by the head, pointing a plasma cannon at Cosgrove in particular - “Hand me the rock,or your friend gets it…”

Cosgrove looked at the Eye of Fashoom, then to his mortally wounded friend, furrowing his brow at the cyborg.

“Who are you?” He asks, curling his lips back.

“She knows.” - Galgameth answered, motioning the gun at Apple Bloom. When he found her ears drooping, Galgameth pointed the gun at Zipper’s head - “SAY IT!!”

Apple Bloom’s lip began to quiver, muttering, “C- Cogs-worth.”

Dropping the unconscious Maximal, Galgameth pressed a button on the helmet. The boll weevil snout retracted, dividing the helmet in half and exposing the red flesh and green hair that is Cogsworth.

“No.” - Cosgrove muttered in disbelief; Cogsworth, here? And walking on his own legs no less.

“Lost for words?” - Cogsworth began circling around the Maximal, aiming a plasma cannon at him - “ I thought the sight of me walking would impress you. I’m disappointed.”

“What happened,” - Cosgrove pointed to the mechanic’s legs - “how…?”

“I've never told you, Chrysalis has made quite a few achievements in my time at Crystal Prep.” - Cogsworth patted his legs like they were a pair of jeans - “Glad to see you're back on your own legs after that February dance.”

Applejack’s eyes widened before tensing her face and stepping forward.

“You! You sicked Darksteel and Skystalker on them!” She exclaimed before being stopped by a blast at the ground in front of her.

“And you’re one to keep your siblings in check...” Cogsworth added, adding more to the irritated Applejack.

“We’ve done you a great wrong.” - Cosgrove stretched out his hand - “But we can help you.”

Cogsworth looked at the three-fingered hand, stretching his hand, about to touch the yellow skin, before sharply drawing it back with a glare. Apple Bloom noticed a strange glow coming from an amulet around his neck when she noticed the Predacon pointing at her.

“You forgive her a long time after not giving a second thought for me.” - Cogsworth grabbed the Eye of Fashoom before walking away to his compatriots - “The next we meet, we won’t rest until one of us loses their heads.”

The feline and the Ursagryph looked at their enemies before walking into the shadows.

“Cogsworth-” Scootaloo stepped forward before feeling Applejack’s hand on her shoulder, shaking her head as she looked down at the Crusader.

Now a distance away from the city, the retrieval team sat on a group of rocks. Zipper weakly breathed the desert air, Scootaloo applying pressure to his wounded chest. Applejack looked up to find Cosgrove perched on the largest rock, looking at the city he was born. He hoped to return someday; today wasn’t that day. He looked up at the setting sun, taking a few sniffles as he did.

“Rarity? Cosgrove?”

His moment interrupted by the buzzing, Cosgrove pressed on the comlink. “Sunset, I read you loud and clear…”

“Oh, good.” - Sunset said in relief from the other side of the line - “What’s your status?”

Cosgrove looked down at the desert landscape, “The enemy has taken the relic. And, Galgameth….”

“What about him?”

“Galgameth is Cogsworth.”

“Whoa, whoa!” - Rainbow Dash buzzed in as well - “Your close friend is a Predacon?!”

“Rainbow!”

Cosgrove signed off on the communication, curling his fists before roaring in anguish. Back down at the temporary camp, Apple Bloom turned to the echoing roar, feeling much more guilty about what she had done the previous December. “I’m so sorry…”

Relic Hunt Part 2: The Phoenix Gate

View Online

Crystal City, Texas.

Taking Pinkie Pie’s Smart Car, the retrieval team for their share of the mission took them not directly to the city this time, but at the wilds outside the city. The object in question is a blue hand-sized amulet with a gold trim and a relief of a bird in the center. For the past two hours, they scoured the brush and rocks for it, but it didn’t seem to be in sight.

“Oh, how long are we going to search for that medallion?” Rarity whined, wiping the sweat from her brow.

“Until we find it, silly!” Answered Pinkie as she bounded from one bush to the other.

Rarity’s stomach began to rumble, moaning once again. “Did anyone bring any snacks.”

“Sure.” - Rarity turned to Chelsey’s voice, being brought face to face with a nine-banded armadillo - “Chili?”

Rarity felt her stomach churn, rolling her eyes before fainting. Chelsey looked down with a grimace before looking at Fluttershy, who also had a similar look of fright. “What? It was a joke.” She answered before placing the xenarthran on the terrain.

“This isn’t getting us anywhere.” - Chided Diver before tapping into her comlink - “Twilight, we seem to be having trouble with the location of the artifact.” - She could only hear static - “Twilight? Damn.”

“What’s wrong?” Muttered Fluttershy.

“Some reason the comms are down.” - Diver curled a fist - “We’re on our own for now.”

Everyone else’s stomach growled, adding to their worry and agitation.

“Well if it’s all the same to you,” - Rarity held her stomach, trying to suppress the rumbling of her stomach before pointing to the direction of the city - “shall we go to a nice little-”

“Restaurant!” Pinkie Pie motioned them to a nearby old restaurant. Far the opposite of Rarity’s idea of a fancy restaurant, it resembled an Old West Saloon, including horses, steel ones, lining up along the entrance. They perused the windows, finding the interior to be a bar, though the presence of small children with equally proportional meals would bring the okay to the retrieval unit.

“Hey, what’s that?” Chelsey squinted her eyes as the others joined her watch. Among the wall of county fair awards, barbecue competitions, and employee of the month awards was a shield-like object that matched the description of the object they were looking for.

“Hey.” The group of girls turned to an employee at the door giving them a glare “You either eat or go away!”

The residents at the restaurant watched as Pinkie Pie, Chelsey, and Diver wolfed down a few well-cooked steaks while Rarity, with slight disgust, and Fluttershy watched while they held their forks above their salads.

“So, uh, how are we going to get the relic?” Whispered Fluttershy before taking another bite of her salad.

“We could win it in an eating contest.” Said Pinkie before sipping her glass of soda.

“Perhaps, Pinkie.” - Rarity tapped her fork on the napkin before standing up - “But allow a lady to handle this one.”

Diver had her cheeks stuffed with cooked flesh when her ears picked up Rarity’s plan.

“We are ladies.” She mutters, forcing the food down her throat.

The guests watched Rarity approach the bartender, preparing herself to become her pleading mode. She leaned on the counter, fluttering her eyes.

“Excuse me, kind sir.” - Rarity flipped her hair aside - “But may I ask of that lovely shield on the wall?”

The bartender turned his head around slightly, glaring at the fashionista before putting down the glass.

“Well howdy, Rarity!” - Rarity could not believe her eyes. The person she talked to was none other than Hayseed Turnip Truck, taking another odd job once more - “Remember me, Rarity?”

“You know this guy?” Asked Chelsey as she brought her plate over to the counter.

“Course, she does.” Hayseed spat through the gap in his teeth - “We met while prepping Applejack's quinceanera. Boy, she make it look purdy.”

Rarity’s white cheeks reddened, tightening herself as she heard the giggles of her compatriots.

“Answerin' yer question,” - Turnip turns to the artifact on the wall - “boss told me that this came from a donation a couple years back.”

“Any chance your boss wants to sell it or give it away?” Asked Fluttershy.

Turnip tapped his chin, “Well, in an eating competition, your friends may have a chance.”

Feeling a slight motion, Rarity turned to Diver, watching her draw her lips back, giving the fashionista a sneer. The overweight Maximal then looked at the bartender. “What’s the challenge?”

Before she could get an answer, the doors to the salon slammed open. The guests turned around. It was the Predacons. Rep, Squirk, and Porcina walked into the restaurant, taking notice of the present Rainbooms and Maximals before walking over to the bar, sitting next to them.

“Howdy.” Said Rep in an amateurish southern dialect. before joining them on the counter.

“Hello.” - Snorted Porcina as she nudged Diver - “Nice little joint to hang out in, eh?”

Diver growled, ready to start a beatdown at the bar. “How did you know we would be here?”

“We had a little… Inside information.” Answered Squirk, sputtering at his tentacles before looking at the artifact.

“Now who will be the first to get it?” Asked Rep, stretching his tongue and licked his eyeball.

Rarity held her hand to her mouth, trying to contain her last meal. But this is not the time to lose a meal. But then again, this was not the place to fight. One sprout of ears or claws will be seen by witnesses, who will then report it to the authorities. They must bide their time for the right moment.

“Hey!” - One cyclist gang member stood up and walked towards the mutates - “You ain’t in a Furry Convention, but we have a policy against picking on kids.”

“Let me assure you” - as more mumbling is heard, the gang member turned to find Sombra looking at him with green smokey eyes before lifting him up with a crystalline arm - “these aren’t ordinary kids.”

The families in the bar began to run out as the other gang members began to brandish their weapons. Squirk, Porcina, and Rep turned around, prepping for a fight against the gang members. Our heroes, keeping an eye at the burning conflict, slowly leaned over to Turnip.

“If you value the stability of this job,” - Chelsey eyed the bartender - “give. Us. That. Shield.”

“Have it your way then.” Sombra tossed the gang member away, pinning him to the wall with a few sharp quills.

Porcina duplicated herself twice before she and the other Preds lunged at the bikers, slapping wooden chairs, smashing beer bottles, the works. Amidst the chaos, Hayseed gently grabbed the shield and slid it over to Rarity.

“Thank you, kind sir.” Rarity gave the odd-job a deep hug. As they escaped the bar, Turnip felt the fuzzy feeling rush up to him.

“Tell Applejack I said hi.” He said, supporting his head with his hand before being snatched up by Squirk’s slimy tentacles, though the threatening glare of the walking mollusk didn’t even falter his loved expression - “May I help you?”

The retrieval unit ran as fast and as far as they could before their lungs almost ceased and their heartbeats can be heard in their heads. They stopped around a few drought resilient bushes, taking several rapid breaths to feed their starved lungs. Pinkie Pie, breathing so rapid that her hair expanded in and out like a balloon, tapped into the comlink. Hearing static once more, the party planner just shook her head as she continued to pant. Five minutes pass as their breathing became slow and relaxed before looking down at the shield.

“Is this relic... really worth the effort?” - Said Rarity, stretching out her hand - “Come now, what does it do exactly?”

Fluttershy took a closer look at the shield, noticing a set of marks along the center. “Deslegrate muri tempi et intervalia.”

The others looked at her with a surprised look on their faces.

“You can speak Latin?” asked Chelsey

Fluttershy gave the similar sized Sophomore a somewhat flustered look, “I studied scientific-”

Without warning the caretaker was engulfed in a ball of flame before phasing out of view, leaving a burn mark in the dirt.

“Fluttershy?” Muttered Rarity as she scraped the dirt.

“She’s gone!!” Shouted Pinkie Pie, and this time knowing this wasn’t a disappearing act like Trixie used during the Battle of the Bands.

“There they are!”

The retrieval unit turned to find Sombra and his Preds right at them. A four-on-four match would certainly have been justified had it not been for 1) Porcina’s ability to duplicate herself and 2) Sombra. Taking Applejack’s advice, Chelsey rushed towards Porcina, smashing her duplicates before attacking the real pig. Pinkie Pie’s usual antics did her justice on Rep once more, donning a Tom Clancy costume with thermal red imaging before stretching her arms in a cartoonish manner, wrapping the humanoid chameleon and slamming him to the ground. Squirk kept lashing out his tentacles at Diver, leaving red marks on her scaly hide as the suckers pulled out. Soon she could tolerate this any further, spun around the next set of lashes, grabbing the tentacles and flipping him over to the ground. The Maximal rushed at the Predacon, pulling him up to her face before Squirk shot steaming hot ink at her eyes. Rarity lifted a few rocks and threw them at Sombra, which was moot whenever he became black smoke.

“Oh dear…” Said Rarity before the smoke quickly approached her, getting her on the defensive as she lit up her horn.

Fluttershy slowly awoke to a world not like her own. The sky was red, several buildings were completely destroyed, totaled cars littered the streets, which had what appeared to be animal tracks the size of garbage trucks. Cautious as ever, she strolled about the hellish waste. Every two minutes the ground shook, scaring a flock of pigeons and several cats and dogs. At the intersection, the caretaker gasped in fright.

Sugarcube Corner was among the architectural victims of this unknown destruction. Fluttershy walked inside the destroyed hang out, seeing that parts of the rubble littered in splattered pastries. Her eyes did spy a worrying sight: a pink limb, delicately holding a rainbow colored cupcake. As for the whereabouts of the Cakes, there isn’t any evidence they faced the worst, but in this environment, how can one be certain.

Fluttershy Ponied Up, ascending into the air as she scoured the wreckage of the city of her birth. The fitness center has been destroyed, the artifacts of the natural history museum scattered to the winds. Sweet Apple Acres just a fraction of its former self, the trees relieved of a fiery blaze. One such tree bore the shattered remains of the Crusader’s clubhouse. Lying among the wreckage was the upper body of Scootaloo, next to it a small horn and a frayed pink bow on the hand.

Another burnt forested region displayed a grave site. A majority of the erect stones honoring the dead have been smashed or pushed into the ground. One smashed tombstone still had readable writing on the pieces. “Here… C... Daughter… Lov…” the pieces read. Lying next to them was Chelsey’s beast mode, much of her body feathers burned away and her stomach region empty, devoid of any organs. A foot being her tail was what appeared to be a blackened mandrill skull.

Fluttershy felt a rumble again, looking up to see a massive body collapse right in front of her. Flying around it, she could tell that it was a gigantic centaur. His chest had a deep smoking hole in it. The caretaker felt an earth shaking rumble. She looked up once again, finding movement in the dusty air. In a big arc, the massive reptilian body turned to the blood red sky and roared, clearing the dust around its head.

The relic wrapped around her once more, sending her through a spacetime loop back to the wilds of present-day Texas. Her friends were now covered in bruises and scratches, Rarity in particular, had dark crystals embedded into her horn, but they still kept on the fight.

“Fluttershy!” They greeted in delight.

Sombra looked at the returned Fluttershy, but did not see the relic with her. “Where is it?”

Fluttershy began to whimper when for the first time, a ground bridge finally opened up.

“Wherever it is,” - Chelsey conked Porcina hard on the head - “it’s out of their reach! LET’S MOVE!!”

Sombra growled as they each ran towards the boom tube, slamming his foot on the ground and sending dark crystals after them. Diver, the slowest among them, rushed into the portal as a crystal reached out and scratched her shoulder. Their victory ruined, Sombra roared in anguish before turning to his Predacon soldiers, looking furious at their failure.

Now in their mother state again, the Pinkie Pie jumped up in the air in excitement. “Yay! Home Sweet-”

“SWEETIE BELLE!” - Shouted Rarity, and for reasons both hers and theirs. The area around their base of operations was a complete mess. Twilight was panting shallowly next to a busted control panel, her glasses broken. Spike and Dapplewood laid on the ground, the latter twitching as he coughed up blood. Tex, Snips, and Snails were in a dogpile, moaning in agony. Then there’s Sweetie Belle, lying on the ground, looking up at what appeared to be a twelve foot tall, charcoal gray man. Hearing the fashionista’s outcry, he turned around, looking at the returning team with red and yellow eyes, the thick brows adding more to his menacing appearance. Seeing her sister in danger, Rarity clenched her fists. - “What did you do to her, you beast!?”

P.O.V.

View Online

Before Dispersal

Deep in the cavernous lair of the Predacons, Chrysalis approached the massive glowing container. The “embryo” twitched here and there as it slumbered. The Changeling Queen looked at the control panel, noticing the gestation process at ninety-nine percent complete before beeping to a one hundred. Drawing a toothy grin she pressed a button. Steam hissed from the container while the edges of the container seeped out the mutagen mixture onto the earthen floor. The container burst open, releasing the giant mutant onto the floor. The body twitched before one red eye opened up.

“Where…. Am… I?” He growled as he rose on his hind legs, twisting his body with a series of loud pops, seeing Chrysalis.

“Do you recognize my voice?” She asked, braving death as she stood before the giant blue beast as he leaned towards her.

“...Chrysalis…” - He raises a gray brow - “The years have not been kind since we've last met.”

“Do you remember what happened?”

“The school… Tambelon... Closed down… I was driving on the highway” - lifting his hand, the beast found he had cloven claws in place of his regular hands - “What?! What has happened to me?”

Chrysalis chuckled, “You are dead flesh brought to life through science and sorcery.”

“Sorcery?” The beast asked.

“Yes. And there are a few… terrorists who would use that against the world.” Chrysalis brought a mirror before him “They will make us like this!”

The beast took a good look at the mirror, noticing his cloven limbs, ragged blue fur, and gnarled, curled horns alongside his toothed muzzle. He roared at his reflection before smashing the mirror.

2 Hours After Dispersal

Back at the base, Sweetie Belle paced back and forth around the ground bridge, waiting for her sister’s company as well for her fellow Crusaders to come back safe and sound. Dapplewood and Tex were playing a game of Solitaire, the former just drawing a number three club and placing it on the four club. Sadira looked at another scroll, reading ancient dialect before noticing the painting of a fire ifrit. Twilight kept vigil on the radar while Spike shuffled on the grass. Snips and Snails, still in their hurly-burly mutated form, stood guard, biding their time with a game of rock paper scissors.

Worry reached Sweetie Belle easily, and she soon tapped into her com link.

“Rarity, are you still there?” The Crusader could only hear static, much to her worry. She looked down when a hand was placed on her shoulder.

“Don't worry,” - Tex, away from the game, rubs her shoulder - “your sister would do just fine.”

“But my-” Sweetie Belle was joined up by Sci-Twi.

“He’s right,” - She added - “whatever lack of communication there is maybe due to distance. We’ve never designed the comms for long distance missions such as this.”

“Yeah.” - Said Snips in his deep voice - "And whatever obstacle will come, Trixie will break through!”

Continuing his game of solitaire, Dapplewood was just about to complete a deck of cards before he noticed something wrong with the air. He takes a few sniffs, looking around before continuing on the game, placing the full deck aside before making a few hand gestures to Snips and Snails.

“What was that, eh?” Asked Snails.

“He just asked why do you two hang out with her?” Answered Sweetie Belle.

“Well…” - Snips placed a turtle claw on his beak, trying to come up with an answer - “She’s great.”

“And powerful.” Added Snails.

Those two most commonly placed facts didn't convince them. Sadira looked away from the scrolls to ask, “What else?”

“She’s… bigger? “ said Snips.

“She’s bigger!?” Said most of them with a ridiculed tone.

“Then what you used to be?” Asked Twilight, pointing to the even taller mutates. Snips and Snails widened their eyes. True that Snails was among the tallest boys in their class, but now that he was even taller along with his partner in crime, the rules may have changed for him altogether.

Dapplewood sniffed the air again before getting up. His scent game led him straight to the HUB itself. Hearing the sounds of snapping cables, the youngest Maximal rushed forth, giving a sharp hiss through his teeth upon seeing the perpetrator.

It was Flash Sentry. The jock turned around, finding the boy getting aggressive. Tex and Sweetie Belle joined soon after, finding Flash to their surprise.

“Flash?” - Tex grabbed him by the jacket and pulled him out of the van - “What are you doing?”

Sweat dripped on his head as the Rocker tried to find an answer. “There was… a rat! Yes, a rat eating at the cables!”

Twilight entered the HUB, inspecting the damage this so-called rat did to the modules. “Some huge rat this was, the communications module is busted. If we can’t get that fixed, we won’t get an early warning from either team...”

As Twilight continued, Flash crab walked away before getting up. Turning around, he found Dapplewood again this time with Snips and Snails behind him. The Thunderfoot just stared at him, keeping the jock in his place. Having known him through his ten-eleven year life, Dapplewood knew of Flash being at best what they call a “waifu stealer.” But he knew Flash wouldn't be that low as to damage vital and expensive equipment. Dapplewood inched his head further, baring his teeth as Flash’ eyes shrank, especially with a werewolf and a snapping turtle behind him. The boy caught the baby blues shifting to the left before flipping back to him.

Dapplewood immediately turned around, finding another student being pushed around by Sadira. Blowing a whistle, he guided Snips and Snails to the conflict.

“Hey, what's going on-?!” Snips’ question was interrupted when the supposed student turned around and hissed at him.

Hearing the hiss, Spike curled back, raising his hackles.

“A Changeling, here?!” He questioned before Flash snatched him away.

“Spike!” They all shouted as the assailant held the dog by the head.

“Flash, what are you doing!?” Exclaimed Twilight.

Spike bit down hard on his hand, releasing him from the death grip and rushing back to his owner. The wounded individual watched as the wound oozed green blood.

“That ain’t Flash.” Said Tex before rushing forward and pinning the Changeling on the wall of the school. The beast transformed into its blackened self and started gnashing its pointed teeth at the tall sophomore as he shifted his head over to Sweetie Belle. “You learn any stun spells?”

Ponying up, Sweetie Belle lit up her horn before delivering a sharp shock to the Changeling’s skull. Though not as strong as Rarity or Sunset, it was enough to knock the beast out. Back at the Ground Bridge, the Changeling that hissed at Snips began to flutter away. His mutate mode more athletic, Snails lifted Dapplewood onto his shoulders, running forward before jumping. Dapplewood than jumped up and grabbed the Changeling by the legs. Snails then tossed up Snips, adding more than enough weight to ground the Changeling. The boy held the creature by the neck, ignoring the foul breath before knocking it out with a good headbutt.

An hour later.

With help from Snips and Tex, Twilight had just finished repairing the radar system. “There, that should get the radar booted up in a few minutes.”

“Still need to get communications back.” Said Tex as he lifted himself back up from underneath the desk.

“No time, the Ground Bridge must be repaired next.” As Twilight, Tex and Snips left the HUB, the radar booted back up, displaying two blips. One coming from the north at a rapid speed, the other, with a much more powerful signature, just a walking distance south from there.

While not the Apple Family Knot, Dapplewood knitted and knotted so much that the Changeling duo responsible for the sabotage couldn’t break out. Sweetie Belle, having spent much of her energy holding them together in a bind, plopped on the floor, catching her breath as she pets Spike.

“If we don’t repair the module quickly, our friends will be fighting to the death.” Twilight lifted up the damaged cover, finding that several power cables have been torn from the power source, a massive gem called a Sunstone from Princess Celestia herself. “With this, it'll take until dark to get repaired unless we use an alternate power source.”

“How about a car battery?” Asked Tex, pointing to their vehicles.

Twilight placed a hand on her chin, looking at the damaged unit before turning to the giant sophomore, “We're going to need at least three-”

Without warning, the blip that was rushing towards them made it’s presence known before them, having smashed several cars along the way before turning around to the gatekeepers. Crawling on all fours towards them, the beast rose on his hind legs, easily towering even Snips and Snails for the moment.

“Who… Who are you?” Sweetie Belle cringed as she looked up the massive humanoid goat.

The beast looked down at them, his physique blotting out the sun. “I have changed. But you may remember me as the former principal of Tambelon.”

Those facts ringing across their ears brought a shade of pale on their technicolor bodies.

“It can’t be…” - Twilight just caught her glasses falling off her nose - “Grogar was dead for over thirty years.”

The large ram narrowed his red eyes, looking to notice Tex cracking his knuckles.

“Maybe I can make that true.” He said before rushing forward and giving Grogar a series of rapid punches before being swatted aside.

Grogar growled as his horns lit up before firing a blast from a bell-shaped charm around his neck. Sadira was quick to bring up a sand wall, blocking the attack as it shattered like glass. Surprised at his power, the goat touched his horns, feeling the heat on his hooves.

“What sorcery is this?” he questioned himself before Snips, Snails, and Dapplewood rushed out of the destroyed shield.

Snails pounced on Grogar, scratching his face as he held the scruff with his teeth. Snails rushed to the goat’s backside, turned around and jumped, colliding his spiny shell on the blue fur. With the demonic goat fallen and Snails holding him down. Dapplewood looked to the bell charm before grabbing and pulling it. Sweetie Belle whistled for Spike, joining the boy as they tried to pull the bell. Pull with all their might, the charm was held tight around his neck.

Twilight used this opportunity to rush over to each car. “Sorry about this, guys.” She apologized in her head before smashing each driver side window, unlocking the door and hood.

Grogar would have none of this; the goat rose back on his hind legs, grabbed Snails, spinning around to thwack Snips away. He then grabbed the smaller children, tossing them forward to the Ground Bridge. Spike held on the longest, a mistake he learned when he got blasted away. Dapplewood hissed, letting his emotions get the better of him as he charged forward. Defensively, Grogar swatted at the boy so hard on the jaw that it broke one way and shattered teeth. The boy remained limp, coughing up blood as the Crusader tried to drag him out of the way.

Grogar prepared another blast, intimidating Sweetie Belle as she tried to cast a spell. At the last minute, Sadira bridged herself between the goat and the Crusader. She mustered as much sand as she could, but in no way will it be enough to help. Sadira screamed as the blast went through the hardened silica and sending her scattered to the winds.

Sweetie Belle whimpered as she slowly stepped back. Twilight bridged herself this time.

“What can you hope to accomplish this time?” - Grogar growls - “Your friend wasn't so lucky.”

Twilight embraced Sweetie Belle, ready for the worst as Grogar lit up his horns. But joining the static of charging horns was a long drawn out howl. The beast stopped his charging attack, turning around to his right to where the howl came from. As the battle remained in a standstill, the empty street echoed with heavy footsteps growing louder and louder before a large man, around his early sixties, with charcoal black skin, white hair, and yellow eyes within a red sclera. And if that's not enough, Grogar tilted his head up as he became slightly dwarfed by the staggering stranger.

“Well?” - Grogar tilted his head - “What do you want?”

The man merely stared at him, keeping a firm glare at the goat as he snorted on his beard. Twilight began to scoot back towards the portal, hooking the last car battery with a loud click. Grogar turned his attention, lowering his guard as the taller man grabbed the blue fur and flung him aside. The man howled once again before trudging forth towards Grogar. The goat rose on his hind legs, channeling his energy to his charm. Twilight and Sweetie Belle winced as the bell sent a full blast on the man's chest.

They opened their eyes, gaping their mouths at the scene of the attack. The man was still alive, though the front of his shirt was burned away. He trudged forth again out of the smoke, grabbing Grogar, carrying him a few yards before slamming him to the ground. In the volley of fists and teeth a distance away, With Sweetie Belle rushing to their emergency supply of Zap Apples, Twilight was on her own as she rebooted the Ground Bridge. Several lines of code in HTML and CSS have been muddled, fortunately for Twilight, Sunset had provided backups of the updated code before the teams dispersed.

Back at the battle, Grogar and the stranger were locked together, pushing each other in a feat of strength. Though he has been mutated with sorcery, Grogar wasn't having as much luck. The stranger slowly pushed the goat away before kicking him to the concrete. The former schoolmaster looked up, seeing a massive leather boot rise above him. However, the boot reached too late as black smoke enveloped Grogar, sending him away.

Despite not being as physically strong as Apple Bloom,Sweetie Belle managed to prop up Snips and Snails besides Tex. As she reached for Dapplewood and Spike, a large shadow quickly loomed her. The stranger looked down with evil eyes piercing into the Crusader's soul. But the stare was a good distraction for Twilight to click on the first dispersal team she saw, sending up a ground bridge right behind the stranger.

"Sweetie Belle!"

The tall man stood straight as Rarity (her horn encrusted with dark crystals), Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Chelsey, and Diver. He turns around, seeing the new arrivals look at their wounded teammates before looking at him. Rarity especially clenched her teeth.

“What have you done to her, you beast!?”

The man not answering, Chelsey and Diver rushed at him. The anthropomorphic Kaprosuchus barreled at the man’s waist, pushing him a few feet back before Chelsey gave him a series of punches. Rarity swiftly took her sister away to safer grounds. Fluttershy and Pinkie grabbed Spike and Dapplewood respectively. Twilight tried the next set of coordinates before looking back. The man had just tossed Chelsey aside before slamming his fists on Diver. The overweight Maximal panted as she held herself on all fours. The stranger lifted his foot and pinned the croc down, twisting the front toe before lifting it up, ready to stomp on her.

That is until a loud bray is heard and a large object swept him away. A fully feral Cosgrove with the injured Zipper on his back, Applejack, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo just returned home. The taller of the Apple Sisters prepared a lasso as the stranger stood tall, removing a quill lodged in his shoulder with a growl. He then trudged towards them as Cosgrove bridged himself between them, warning the stranger again by slamming his tail on the ground. The stranger merely watched as the Maximal swayed his tail back and forth before Applejack threw the loop around his neck. She pulled with all her might, getting the stranger to stagger before Cosgrove pounced on him.

The man struggled to get up, but with Chelsey, Diver, and Sunset back into the fight, he could only watch as Applejack hogtied him. Strong as he was, he couldn't break out of the bond.

Cosgrove stood up, powering down before taking out his phone. “Dad, I would like to report of a hostile at Canterlot High.”

Ten Minutes Later

As per protocol, the police arrived and took the man away. But the damage was still being undone. Applejack and Sunset helped Twilight establish a connection to the power source. Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Diver and Chelsey were hard at work helping out their wounded or cursed. Rarity’s horn was restored after eating half of a zap apple, flaking off the black gems. Zipper was placed on a medical table, breathing slowly as he was feed a slice of zap apple at a time. Snips and Snails had the mutagen purged from their bodies, much to their sadness.

“And once, I felt useful.” Said Snips.

“You two did an excellent job, either way.” Said Tex, flexing his wounded body.

“An excellent job!?” Trixie stepped forward at the honorary Maximal, looking furious “Sadira is dead because of your headstrong actions!”

“Hey, hey!” Chelsey bridged herself between the two “If she hadn’t done that, Sweetie Belle would have been dead.”

Trixie scowled at the piebald girl, turning with a huff as she walked away. Snips and Snails stood up and joined her, but not before looking back at Twilight. They have quite a lot to think about regarding their great and powerful master. And sooner than later, she would be gone from Canterlot High. Who would they follow then?

With his jaw broken, Dapplewood’s head was taped down with an ice pack on the broken joint. Unable to chew, he was instead given a soda drink hat with two bottles of zap apple cider. Occasionally he did clench his face as new teeth erupted out the damaged ones or empty spots. He looked around, taking notice of one person missing.

Cosgrove stood near Cogsworth's house, hands in his pockets as he readied to deliver the news. He knocked on the door, standing stiff as a soldier as he waited. Soon the door opened, revealing Cogsworth's not so quite happy parents.

“Can I help you?” Asked Shock Drive, glaring down at Cosgrove.

The sophomore took a deep breath, “I have some bad news… regarding your son.”

“No, don’t talk-”

“He’s a Predacon under the guise Galgameth.”

Shock Drive opened the door wide open, pushing Cosgrove away. “Well, it was all your fault for pushing him! You did this to him!” - Shock Drive stamped back into his house before turning around - “You're lucky I won't sue you!!!”

The door slammed at his face, Cosgrove took a deep breath before slowly walking out of the neighborhood towards school. One the outside he looked like something Maud Pie would relate, but inside told a different tale. His heart was pumping rapidly, as is his breathing. His brain was at war, logic trying so hard to repel his rage. And beneath that chaotic build, what vented out was a deep heinous growl as his eyes twitched.

Cosgworth is presented with a large variety of metal from sheets to steel rods. With the Eye of Fashoom in his hand, he knew exactly what purpose the gem could be used for. He felt a crystalline hand on his armor, looking back to find Sombra with Heka wrapped around his neck.

“You have done well.” - the snake staff slithered - “Very well indeed.”

Sombra raised a brow. “Do you regret leaving your former friends?”

The mechanic looked down, reminiscing of the past years he has been with his friends. And now, having harmed one of them means there is no going back.

“No.” He clicks a button at the back of his head, bringing back the boll weevil mask, “Not at all.” He finishes before lighting up the fully repaired optic sensors.

The Flash Sentry Paradox

View Online

Another weekend has come at the Centennial State. For the adults, well those that aren't on call or are not higher up the corporate food chain, it was just much of a day off as their children still enrolled in school. For some of the high school students, it involved a great deal of work. Flash Sentry is one such person. Having trashed his car (torn in half to be exact) on the fall formal two years back, he was given a little ultimatum from his parents: get a job or get an apartment. He took the former, working as a store clerk at the guitar store. Suitable for him, and one that pays, why would he fuss?

Now on his half-hour break, Flash was just finishing off a burger from Phil’s Grills, licking his fingers and drying them off with a napkin. He took out his phone, turning on the calendar app. On one of the days had a blue dot inside a red one.

“Two years down, two more to go.” He said, confirming that it is in fact pay day. Aside from taxes, Flash also pays a quarter of what he earned on the “small” loan his parents took to buy the car.

Flash reached into the carton of french fries, pulling out two the size of his fingers, taking a bite of them when he heard a distance scream from a lady. Soon, everyone was running for their lives. The Rocker crouched underneath the table, shielding himself as the stampede ran around and jumped over the eatery table. Flash held on for dear life, relaxing as the chaos slowly ceased. He sighed with relief when a talon slammed on the tile floor.

Galgameth, Skystalker, and Darksteel were in the mall. Their agendas unknown, Flash remained motionless as the second of the trio turned to the unconsumed meals and devoured them. Darksteel transformed into his anthro mode, reaching his claws into the happy meals and pulling out the toys.

“Galgameth to Chrysalis, the test has been proven successful.”

“(Test? What test?)” Flash wondered in his mind as he slowly took his cell phone. But as he dialed the number, Galgameth picked up the signal.

“Excellent!” Chrysalis cackled on the other side of the line “We will prepare another bridge shortly. Remain in position.”

Under the table, Flash was still conversing with the defense squad. He looked forward, seeing a pair of insect legs walking at his table.

“Just wait here, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and I will be on our way.” Ordered Sunset, cutting off the connection too late.

Galgameth pulled the booth table out of the ground, tossing it aside before picking up Flash by the collar of his jacket.

“Hi… Cogsworth.” Flash held an uneasy grin as the boll weevil mask drew back, revealing the mechanic’s face “So… are you happy now that you can walk?”

“I am only able to walk because the suit connects the severed nerves on my lower spinal cord.” - Cogsworth tossed Flash a good distance, parting the deli tables as he slid on the floor, hitting the stone pillar. The rocker looked up, seeing the mechanic approach him along with his more bestial companions - “I still can't feel my legs.”

Drawing a plasma cannon at him, Flash cringes as the barrel began to glow.

“Cogsworth!” - The three foes turned around, seeing Sunset, Rainbow Dash, and Applejack outside of a portal. The first of whom summoned her power - “Leave Flash alone!”

“It’s Galgameth now, Sunset!” - The mechanic drew forward the mask, grabbing Flash Sentry in a headlock as he pointed a plasma cannon at him - “We’ll be taking a prisoner.”

Rainbow Dash summoned her power before flying forward. It was only a few seconds before she realized that Applejack held her by her sneakers. Defeated, the athlete landed back on the ground. Being the only one that can perform projectile spells, Sunset aimed a lit-up fist at Galgameth.

Galgameth tightened his grip on Flash, drawing the barrel closer. “Start praying that she is an excellent shot.” He growled.

A few seconds after, another portal appeared behind the Predacons. The three Rainbooms and Flash were both shocked and astonished. Their enemy, mastering the use of portal travel. Compared to theirs, the Predacon portal was a red-violet color. Darksteel and Skystalker walked into the portal, phasing out with a harsh buzzing sound. But the standstill between Galgameth and Sunset still stood.

“Ugh, Sunset?” Applejack got her attention “Are the portals supposed to do that?”

Sunset eyed around. Particles both gold and violet began to reach out, conjoining each other akin to damaged muscles fibers repairing itself. Flash took noticed of Galgameth taking in the spectacle, loosening his grip as he did. With a sharp kick, the Pred was down. The Rocker joined his friends, racing to their portal while avoiding Galgameth’s plasma beams. The energy tubes mixing in color, Galgameth turned tail and ran to his portal. Outside of the tubes, such energies condensed and twisted before shutting down in a massive bang.

Back at Canterlot High, Twilight, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Fluttershy, Cosgrove, Chelsey, and Diver were waiting for the rescue team to arrive. Said team leaped out of the portal as it closed with the same force, sending them flying a good distance on the grass. They moaned in pain as the three Maximals picked them up.

“You all right, boss?” Asked Diver as she brought Sunset to her boots.

“Yeah… I'm fine.” She looked around, finding that one of their own is missing “Flash? ...Flash!”

Flash groaned before opening his navy blue eyes. His vision clearing up, he found that he was in on fresh spring grass. Lifting himself up, he saw that he is indeed on the school grounds. However, it was peaceful, very peaceful. The Rainbooms or the Maximals weren't there.

“I must have been misplaced on another part of the school.” - Flash jogged over to the location of their base - “Don’t worry guys, I'm-” The Rocker found the space to be vacant, not even the HUB was there - “here?”

Flash ran into the school, jogging down the halls to the music room.

“Guys, I'm-!” The music hall was devoid of instruments or their owners. An odd thing for him, as in their free time, the Rainbooms would always practice their songs. Flash scratched his hair as he tried to find another way around.

He walked outside the school, standing next to the bus station. Since he was warped back to the school, he left his car at the mall. He sat on the bench, shuffling his feet around as he waited for the next bus. Around ten minutes, the bus did arrive, pulling to a stop next to him. The Rocker stood up at the same time the doors opened, looking jump in surprise.

It was Snails… a much older Snails operating the bus. Even when on the driver's seat, he appeared bigger than Flash, but still comparatively slender.

“You coming in or not?” He asked, pointing to the coin chest near the dashboard.

Flash took out his wallet, shuffling through each section, but alas he could not find even a penny. He sighed in defeat; wherever he is, the bus still only accepted coins for now. “Looks like I walk.” He answered, prompting the bus driver to close the doors and drive off. Coughing out the exhaust he inhaled, the Rocker began his long walk.

The team scoured the mall for any signs of him. Sunset, Applejack, and Rainbow tried the food center again, finding no clue as construction crews cleaned up the mess. It is a godsend that the Dazzlings are funding their adventures, or this would be something that they would be deep in debt. The other members of the team soon returned.

“Anything?” Asked Sunset.

“No.” Said Fluttershy

“Nuh-uh.”Said Diver

“Nope.” Said Chelsey

“Nada.” said Zipper

“Negative.” Said Cosgrove

“Yes.” The others turned to Pinkie Pie, waiting for an answer before the party planner chuckled in embarrassment “Er I mean no.”

“I don't get it,” Twilight placed a finger on her chin “How can Chrysalis and Sombra learn to use a ground bridge of their own.”

“Well, they would need a power source,” - Cosgrove answered - “we wouldn't have to find the Eye of Fashoom if it wasn't a magical relic. Then they would need a mechanic.”

“Cogsworth.” Added Applejack.

“Put two valuable ingredients and you got yourself a ground bridge!” Pinkie Pie smiled in triumph, the direct opposite of the others.

“Either way, we're still understanding how it works.” Sunset added “When the energies mixed together, it sent some of us where we wanted, others elsewhere. Let's hope it isn't too far.”

No bike or car, Flash quite a good distance to where he needed to be. Catching his breath, the rocker looked around.

“This is Great Valley Drive?” He asked himself, and with good reason. The neighborhood as a whole was much cleaner. Most of the trees were removed in the back area of Cosgrove's homestead and some large trees in the western sector of the neighborhood were torn down. The Elementary School nearby was also renovated, there aren't any vines growing encroaching the bricks.

Flash approached the Tamer residence, Sunset's home. If she was around, maybe she and her Maximal posse could help bring him back to his own time. He knocked on the door, waiting a while before the door handle jiggled. He smiled in delight when it finally opened.

“Sunset, I’m glad I found…” Flash’ mouth became agape as he stood before a much older woman, blue in skin color with brown hair, similar in size to Celestia yet similar in age to Loopty Hoop. In fact, this woman was the one and only - “Night Dancer…?”

The now middle-aged woman who was supposed to be dead for six years was just as surprised as well, but it was short lived as Night Dancer furrowed her brow before giving Flash a good slap on the face. “You have a lot of nerve showing your face back here!”

Flash pressed his hand against his cheek before looking back at her. “Miss, I need to see Sunset-”

Night Dancer blocked his advance on her property. “How dare you…”

“What?” Flash steps away as the woman walked up to him.

“How dare you come back to my house, wanting to see her again?” - Night Dancer stepped towards him before pointing to the Thunderfoot house down the street - “Get out of my sight before I have you arrested!”

“Miss-!” - Night Dancer slammed the door on him before he could say - “Where is she…?”

The Rocker walked to the fringes of the neighborhood, pondering about this new development of his. “That couldn't be her. Night Dancer was dead a long time ago. And why was she upset with me?” - Flash continued to ponder, coming up with a solution before stopping a taxi cab - “Sweet Apple Acres.”

Back at the Predacon Base, the issue was much less severe. Galgameth, Skystalker, and Darksteel all made it back in one piece to say the most. The mechanic sat at his resting area, a simple hard slab of rock, tapping the fingers of his somehow uncovered right arm against the stone. He lifted the armored left arm, looking at the faulty interface as the debug percentage reached forty-six percent and rising.

“It will be only a matter of time before your armor reaches its full potential again.” Skystalker was at the cyborg’s legs, prodding it to enable the legs of the suit to work properly.

“But why would I lose part of my suit?” Asked Cosgworth as he lifted his uncovered hand again.

The cybernetic dragon continued his work when he answered, “As a first test drive for our ground bridge, it is only logical for us to expect errors.” Finishing the prodding process, Skystalker moved aside, allowing his partner to rise up off his “bed” with a small stagger.

“Galgameth, your assistance is required at the ground bridge.” Chrysalis buzzed from the other side of Cogsworth’s comm unit.

Skystalker watched his friend walk out of his quarters, staggering every five steps as he did. “Was it ever logical to threaten Flash Sentry?”

Cogsworth stopped at the exit, curling his fists before turning around. “You don’t know him like I did, he always manipulates, pulls strings, anything to get what he wants. Why else did Sunset have a falling out with him?” He answered before continuing to where he is called.

Sweet Apple Acres still looked quite the same. Nice clear skies, wide open spaces between the apple orchards, and the various smells of animal life. As Flash looked around, he found there are a few new additions to the estate such as a couple windmills in the outskirts, gathering energy as they twirled the passing wind.

“Raise this barn, raise this barn, one, two, three, four.” - Flash turned to the youthful voice, finding a seven-year-old girl with tan skin, brown hair, blue eyes, and dark freckles carrying a basket of eggs - “We’ll raise this barn, raise this barn, one, two, three, four.”

“Excuse me,” Flash called out, getting the girls attention - “is Cosgrove around?”

The girl tilted her head, switching the basket of eggs to the other hand. “He was here a couple hour's ago, but I’m not sure. I’ll ask Uncle Mac.”

“(Uncle Mac?)” Flash thought to himself, staring into nothing when he felt his hand grabbed by the same girl.

“Come on, can’t expect to stand here all the time.” She said, pulling Flash’ arm as she led her towards the farmhouse. When they arrived, Flash saw Big Mac himself, now living up to his name. Appearing to be in his early thirties, the eldest of the Apple Siblings easily dwarfed them both as he turned around after putting down a barrel of apples - “Uncle Mac, is Cosgrove still here?”

The large man looked at Flash with his usual stoic stare for a long period of time, analyzing the person he seemed to remember from possibly so long ago. “Eeyup.” He said, leading Flash towards the stables, stopping at one in particular. “Somebody here to see you, Cosgrove.”

The person in the stable stopped removing gunk from the hoof of a horse, turning around to see Flash as well. The Rocker looked with relief, that is until Cosgrove stood up and walked out of the shade. Not as tall as Big Mac nor muscular as him, but his size is still one to behold. Like his father before him, Cosgrove’s body was laced with bullet wounds and knife gashes. The left side of his face and neck was embedded with shrapnel. And his expression is one to match as he looked down at him.

“You have a lot of nerve showing your face back here again.” He growled as he stepped forward.

“Cosgrove, I don’t understand.” - Flash pointed back at the direction of Great Valley Drive - “Night Dancer is still alive, but is-”

“Night Dancer was always around, but Sunset isn’t.” - The eldest Thunderfoot child leaned forward - “You killed her.”

Sunset, dead? Flash gulped in terror as he stepped away.

“The last she saw on that very night thirteen years ago was a text message from you while she was driving.” - Cosgrove bared his teeth as his yellow face turned red - “I found her a loving family and you made the biggest mistake you’ll ever make.”

Flash saw Cosgrove pop his knuckles as he stepped closer. He eyed Big Mac just standing there with a similar glare as he crossed his arms. The rocker shuffled back as the Maximal got closer.

“Look, Cosgrove. I’m not the Flash you think-.”

In one quick motion, Cosgrove grabs Flash by the throat with one arm and lifts him off the ground.

“Give me a good reason not to smash your skull against the wall.”

Flash needed to act fast lest he sees how Cosgrove is indeed his father’s son. His eyes circled around, trying to find a piece of evidence, on and off seeing the Thunderfoot bare his teeth as he waited for an answer. The rocker’s eyes did pick up something; an arm, Galgameth’s arm.

“There!” - Flash strained himself as he pointed to the fallen limb - “Where did you get that?”

Cosgrove narrowed his eyes before letting him go.

“Apple Biscuit saw it while we were working. I plan to give it to police after today.” - He leaned down again at Flash - “But that isn’t the reason I’m expecting.”

Still on his toes, Flash had to find good evidence again to be spared a beating. But then again, he always had pictures. He took out his phone, flipped through his photo album and showed a picture of the Sunset he knows at the Maximals face.

“Because in my world Sunset is alive!” - Flash watched as the person Sunset loved like a brother heel his rage as he looked at the images of an older Sunset - “She is alive and well. And that” - Flash pointed to the gauntlet - “that is the gauntlet of Cogsworth's battle suit.”

Cosgrove raised a brow, looking at Big Mac for an answer. The farmer still had his stoic expression before giving them the answer, “Eeyup.”

The Maximal turned back to Flash with a calmer demeanor, but he still appeared flustered before grabbing the scraper. “Take the limb and go.” He muttered before resuming cleaning.

As Big Mac lead Flash out of the property, the latter began to ponder. Sunset is dead, Night Dancer is still alive, and he is ten years into the future. He’ll need to find a way back to his world and fast. But there is a question he wants to answer.

“So are Cosgrove and Apple Bloom…” - Big Mac looks down as Flash stopped talking for a moment - “Together?”

“Cosgrove prefers that we don't talk about it.” he answers, looking back at the barnyard.

Apple Biscuit just entered the barn, seeing the adult Thunderfoot sitting away from the horse he cleaned, looking at a small locket in his hand. Looking at Sunset's picture for a while, he flipped over to another picture. It was Dapplewood, looking similar to his brother in his Freshman and Sophomore years.

“Mr. Cosgrove…” Apple Biscuit asked innocently, placing her hand on his knee.

Cosgrove continued to look at the locket, slowly tearing up as the memories of the past began crawling back.

“Just remembering the promise I made…. Never again…” He finishes before closing the locket.

Of course, with no cab available nearby, Flash continued his slow walk down the dirt path, holding the mechanical arm on his shoulder as he pressed on.

“(Okay Flash, think.) He pondered as he shuffled his shoulder to get comfy (What would everyone else do? I can't use Cosgrove or Rainbow Dash as an example, they usually are better in a fight.)

When he reached Great Valley Drive once again, an idea sparked in Flash’ head as he looked at Night Dancer's home. “If I can't talk to Sunset in person, I can call her!”

Flash took out his cell phone, scrolled the contact menu until he found Sunset's avatar. Pressing her phone number he placed the device to his ear. A couple buzzes and chirps, all he could get was, “The number you are trying to reach is not available.”

But fortunately, there are plenty of ways of communicating with the small cell phone.

Back at the other dimension in Canterlot High, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Big Mac, Cosgrove and his posse all helped in heaving Flash' motorcycle off the red truck. Sunset, in hopes of generating a similar effect as last time, helped Twilight reconfigure the Ground Bridge when she felt a buzz again, this time in the pockets of her jeans. She took out her cell phone, turning it on to find an icon of Flash Sentry in the text tab.

“I got a message!” She called out when Pinkie Pie jumped on her back.

“Yay you!” Pinkie Pie cheered before being shaken off.

Sunset read the text to herself before responding, “In an alternate dimension ten years into the future.”

“An alternate dimension?! That’s awesome!” Commented Rainbow Dash, hovering in the air before being plopped back on the ground by Applejack.

Sunset’s phone buzzed again, in which she read, “I am at Great Valley Drive at the Tamer Residence holding Galgameth’s arm.”

“Then all we have to do is just make a similar… portal thing, correct?” Asked Rarity.

Twilight took off her glasses, rubbing her forehead before answering, “So, you’re suggesting that we generate two portals, a technology we are still learning about, with the worst case scenario being the possibility of generating a black hole.” - Everyone remained silent before Twilight put on the glasses and spun around to the control panel and began punching in the coordinates - “Let’s find out!”

Flash knocked the door once again, Night Dancer opening it up, and likewise appearing flustered though she did give the mechanical limb a perplexing look.

“Look, I know you're mad at me, or another one like me. But I am not the Flash you remember.” He scrolled to his photo album, showing her the pictures of a Sunset much older from the one she remembered. But what was real to Flash wasn't convincing to Night Dancer.

“Another one of your girlfriends?” Night Dancer hissed, after all, anyone can dye their hair in streaks.

Flash’ phone buzzed again in front of her, seeing the icon and name of Sunset Shimmer. The Rocker turned the phone to him, reading the message, “Ready when you are…”

Flash looked for a command in the forearm, finding a button with a series of rings before looking at Night Dancer. “This, you need to see.”

He presses the button the same time his friends did, illuminating a portal of mixed colors behind him. Night Dancer stood agape at the technological marvel. Walking by Flash, she reached for the edges, sifting her fingers at the wheat grain feeling.

“Your daughter is alive and well.” Flash said, seeing Night Dancer relax her shoulders before she turned around and entered her house. The Rocker began to enter the portal.

“Wait.” - Flash turned to find Night Dancer at the door, holding a large assortment of letters wrapped in a rubber band - “Take these with you. Promise me Sunset will see them.”

Flash looked at the bundle of letters before looking at the portal. “Night Dancer, come with me. Sunset, your parents, Cosgrove, they would all love to see you again.”

The former babysitter looked at the portal, tearing up before shaking her head. “I have long since moved on… ”

Given the letters, Flash walked towards the portal before stopping and turned around. “I'm sorry for your loss.” He apologizes before entering the portal. A few seconds after, the portal closes, dimming the marvel to nothingness.

Upon exiting the portal, Flash felt his phone buzz once again. Reading the question, Flash typed, “I am here safe and sound.” He took a deep breath before placing the bundle of letters in the Tamer mailbox and taking the arm of Galgameth to Cosgrove's front door.

Later in the evening, Sunset was writing in her journal under a desk lamp. “It's only a matter of time, but we could really use your help right now, Twilight. Your friend, Sunset Shimmer.” She closes the journal, sending the message as it glowed between the pages. One thing down, and now over several letters worth to go, she thought to herself as the fire-haired woman grabbed the bundle and removed the rubber band. She raised an eyebrow at the unusual date, it was four years ago, the first Christmas since…

She opened the letter, hearing a soft little tune as she read the letter. She read another letter, then another, and another, until the final letter, which read:

Dear Sunset Shimmer,
For years I have come to grips that I won't see you again each holiday and your birthday. I realize that somewhere you are watching me, and you wouldn't want me to suffer. I have made the decision to move on. It will be hard, but I’m certain we'll be happy. But I'll never forget you, my loving daughter. On the wind, beyond the sea, sing this song and remember: Soon you’ll be home with me…
Once upon a December…

Sunset turned off the desk lamp, leaving the moon to be the only source of light illuminating the room. She took each step, one at a time before collapsing on the floor, weeping on her bed, imagining the spirit of the woman she called Mom comforting her for the first time since her death.

And it is evident the next day, Sunset kept to herself throughout math class. Amidst the notes regarding trigonometric solutions the team leader made small sketches of Night Dancer looking at her, smiling at her.

“Sunset Shimmer.” - Sunset looked up, seeing Bill Neigh near the chalkboard - “Care to tell the class the square root of five hundred and forty-six?”

Regaining herself, Sunset closed the notebook and answered, “It's twenty-three point three six six six four two eight nine one zero nine.”

“Correct!”

A while later in the Sophomore hallway, Cosgrove sorted the books he needed for his next class, trying to yield his appetite as he sniffed the air, the scent of fried pizza stimulating the hairs in his nostrils. That out of the way, he closed the locker and walked down.

“Hey, Cosgrove.” - Flash asked, getting the Maximal’s attention - “Can I talk with you for a minute?”

Cosgrove walked back to the older classmate, “Yes, what is it?”

Flash gulped, scratching his head before asking, “Just humor me a bit. If Night Dancer never got killed in a car accident, what would your life be like?”

Cosgrove looked away for a while; one must tread very carefully when asking about Night Dancer before her surviving loved ones. He leans on the locker.

“Well, if she did, then Mom, Dad, and Night Dancer would join us for Thanksgiving dinner, and we’d be happy. We’d still form the Maximals, though Sunset wouldn't have much of an obligation why. But there are other ways that Night Dancer would still be killed. A rampant disease, a deranged mugger, maybe a Sharptooth, we all die in our old age. Thus A is A, Night Dancer is Night Dancer, I am me, and you are you.”

Given Cosgrove's opinion weighted against his experience in another dimension, Flash nodded.

“Thanks.” He said before walking the other way down the hall.

Cosgrove would begin his trek to the cafeteria had he not stopped and beckoned the question, “What did you find in that other world?”

Flash stopped and turned around, “Sunset will tell you…”

As the Maximal continued to the cafeteria, his eyes pick up the hallway TVs generating static. As he looked closer, he found Sombra's image becoming clear. He pressed his comm.

“Boss, we got a situation.”

Prometheus Unbound Part 1: Noble Savage

View Online

The static on the television monitors soon cleared, revealing dark silhouettes of Chrysalis and Sombra, their eyes glowing as they looked at the television monitor.

“Citizens of Estes Park:” - Sombra growls - “your families are no longer safe. We have gained a ground bridge of our own, and plan to put it to good use.”

“Starting tonight,” Chrysalis added “we will take each one member of the most important families in the city. If your guardians are watching, here are our terms. Reveal the location of Equestria to the world and we will consider surrendering. If not… we will consider openings for new super soldiers.”

The tv paused as the view is drawn back to the local law enforcement discussed their options before tonight. Police officers shuffle back and forth, answering call after call, acknowledging that they're on the case. Clamp Jaw was one such person answering the telephone

“The video is untraceable, the audio is untraceable.” Clamp Jaw rubbed his temples “We got people scared shitless about tonight. And we can only provide so much police force that we will still lose one or two people a night.”

“Don’t stress yourself too much, Dad.” Said Cosgrove from his phone “We’ll think of something fast.”

“No promises.” Clamp Jaw finished before hanging up.

When he hung up, Cosgrove turned around to find his friends hard at work on battle strategies, likely hit lists, and the possible locations of their enemies.

“I say let’s go out their, full force, rainbows blazing, and take them out!” Shouted Rainbow Dash as she slammed her hands on the table.

“Yeah, and go on another wild goose chase.” - Applejack took off her stetson and fanned herself - “We don’t know where in the Centennial State they are.”

“I’ve tried the theme park.” Said Diver.

“I’vespiedthewarehousewewereimprisoned, noonewasthere.” Said Zipper.

“And of course, the sewers are still stuffed with rubble.” Added Chelsey.

All known possible locations searched with no result, Sunset and Twilight began to ponder, wondering their next move before the latter snapped her fingers.

“What about that limb Flash gave us?” she asked as she turned her upper body to the discarded limb on the table. Sunset approached the limb, pressing a few buttons to transform the limb into a variety of shapes, including extending a blade right in front of Fluttershy. The Crystal Prep Honor student saw a power symbol among the buttons, pressing it revealed a small interface displaying a percentage.

“Only thirty-seven percent, not strong enough to trace it back to Cogsworth automatically. But, maybe we can use the threat to our advantage...” - Sunset signaled Applejack to come over before pulling the limb apart with a crowbar, revealing the small bright core of the limb - “Bingo.”

“Ooooo.” Pinky cooed as she fingered the glowing orb.

Twilight brought the core to a scanner, filling the HUB databanks with the information related to the power source, and the ability to track it.

“Now all we need is bait.”

“Uhm… Bait…?” Fluttershy cringed; if one thing leads to the other, the possibility of her being used as bait would be inevitable.

“No, no, not live bait.” - Said Rainbow Dash - “You know, something convincing.”

Rarity tapped her chin before widening her eyes, “I have been making a very elaborate the past week that I would be honored to donate.”

“I can have Masquerade make a good dummy.” Said Pinkie Pie.

“Do what you can before nightfall.” Sunset asked dismissing. Though Cosgrove remained behind.

“What would we do with them when we find them?” Cosgrove asked in an uncertain tone, giving his mud-sibling a reason to worry.

“We’ll try to capture at least one, but our goal is to retrieve the Eye of Fashoom.” - Sunset placed her hand on Cosgrove’s shoulder - “We can’t guarantee Cogsworth would be our friend again, and I wouldn’t blame him, but we must at least try.”

“And if he doesn’t…” Cosgrove recalled the memory of him, Applejack, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and the injured Zipper at the container facility in Ashley Valley. The Cogsworth of the past held the Eye of Fashoom as he joined Darksteel and Caterina.

“The next we meet, we won’t rest until one of us loses our heads.”

Back to reality, Sunset raised Cosgrove’s head up. “Get some rest, we may need it if the plan works.” - As she watched Cosgrove leave the HUB, she took out her phone and dialed a number. It took a while before the phone clicked - “Adagio, I need a favor.”

Outside of the HUB, Apple Bloom, having eavesdropped the small talk, watched Cosgrove leave head towards the school. This can be her one chance to redeem herself, to bring Cogsworth back on their side. But if she tried to do it alone, she could risk everyone’s life, let alone hers. She looked at the Wondercolt statue at the front yard; the fact that there is another Twilight and Sunset Shimmer in another world could mean that there is someone could help her or give her some advice. She walked to the portal, took a deep breath and began to reach.

“Apple Bloom,” - Before she could place her fingers through the looking glass, Apple Bloom turned to find Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo, the second of the two raised her hand - “What are you doing?”

“Girls, I need you to do me a favor?” - Apple Bloom asked, adding more to her friend’s worry - “Can you keep watch until I come back?”

“Apple Bloom,” - Sweetie Belle walked forward - “Sunset and Twilight said we might disturb the balance by going into the portal.” Said Sweetie Belle’s.

“Only one of us.” - Apple Bloom pointed at the door - “The Twilight in there did it, besides it should be a short while.”

“Apple Bloom, wait!” Scootaloo spoke too late as Apple Bloom ran through the portal. She looked at Sweetie Belle, who give her the exact same look.

“Applejack’s not going to like this…” She muttered.

Apple Bloom is pulled forward like taffy as it reached the other side of the gateway. She closed her eyes as she passed through the light, hearing herself land on a floor with a loud thump. She opened her eyes to see a vast library of blues and teals, a few wooden tables, and a dinosaur on parch paper looking at her. Before long, a set of deep yellow legs with two additional fingers along each side appeared. She looked up and saw a colt a surprised look on his face.

“Apple Bloom?” - He moved his neck side to side before looked at her face again - “Or do you go by another name on the other side?”

Apple Bloom placed her hooves on the crystal ground, groaning as her form raised her body off the ground. She looked down at the colt and the approaching dinosaur; being a teenager, she is now the height of the Snails in this world. She looked at her body, seeing that much of her red hair is missing with the mane on one side of her body, and a patch of fur on her flanks adorned with a mark similar to her insignia.

“Has anything wrong happened in the other world?” - The colt asked before turning his body - “Do you guys need Twilight?”

“No, Cosgrove.” - The colt looked back at the taller mare with a questioning smirk on his muzzle at mentioning of his name - “Nothing is wrong, it’s just… Is there someone who has any knowledge regarding Galgameth?”

Cosgrove’s mouth agape, he turned to the dinosaur next to him, “Dapplewood, continue your work.” - He raised his hoof and waved it back - “Follow me.”

Looking both ways before coming out of the library, the Hipparion lead the human turned pony through the halls, down the stairs, and through a dark tunnel. With very little light in the tunnel, Apple Bloom could only keep walking forward, squinting her eyes to see a small light. As she moved closer, the light became bigger before it began to split like an ameba. This was a computer lab with an earthen floor and eroded stairs. The Crusader wondered if this was something else, but such is not the point of her visit. One turn of her head and she jumped back at the sight of a suit of armor the size of an elephant. She approached the armor, inspecting every detail, but the boll weevil head was a clear give away of its identity.

“Apple Bloom, Cogsworth. Or have you already met?” Cosgrove introduced Apple Bloom to his world’s Cogsworth, the same size as the colt who introduced him, his back legs supported by a wheeled harness, and a series of nodes attached to his back. He pulled himself towards the teenager, looking up and down.

“Don’t be surprised, I actually thought an older Apple Bloom would be a bit more muscular.” - Apple Bloom jerked her head back at the remark, though Cogsworth did clear his throat - “So there is a Galgameth in your world? Well, let me tell you that Galgameth is no cakewalk.”

“I know…” added Apple Bloom, recalling the recent battles they had.

“Before I can help you, answer me this:” - Cogsworth backed away towards the computer monitors - “why did you want to come all this way if this meant getting in trouble when you get back?”

Apple Bloom drooped her ears, looking the other way as they waited for their answer. “Did the other me… Shared people’s information?”

The two colts looked at each other, then looked at her before Cosgrove answered, “All three of them did a few years back.”

Apple Bloom looked at Cogsworth, pointing to the machine “And did it made you…?”

Cogsworth looked the other way, rubbing his right arm as he tried to find a more appropriate answer.

“I had… another reason.” - Turning his paralyzed body, the mechanic opened a few computer files containing design specs of the armor itself. - “Here is what you need to know.”

For one hour, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo waited anxiously for Apple Bloom to come back. They kept looking around for any sign of their older friends would walk by, especially Applejack. Their anxiety was relieved when Apple Bloom finally returned, carrying a glass jar strapped to her back with what appears to be a brass vacuum hose.

“What on earth is that?” Asked Scootaloo as she pinched the hose.

“I’ll explain later.” - Apple Bloom looked down at her watch, seeing the hands just reaching five o’clock before jogging towards home - “I’ll see you girls tomorrow.”

The Crusader ran as fast as she could towards the town. As with the impending threat, the town was in a mass panic; super stores were crowded with people gathering supplies and food. The streets were even packed with traffic from smart cars to buses as they sought safer, more unknown locations. Apple Bloom weaved through the crowds as she could, eventually reaching her home, and even there fared little better. Townsfolk who have placed an order of a few bushels of apples arrived in truckloads; Big Mac, and a few traffic officers stood by the entrance to lead the crowd out of farmland in their haste. Apple Bloom snuck ran around the picket fence next to the orchard, reaching her house just fifteen minutes after. She turned around slightly upon reaching the door, about to grab the handle when the door appeared to open on its own.

“And where have you been?” Said Applejack as she crossed her arms.

A while later, Apple Bloom sat on the couch, the harness on the chair in front of her while her sister paced around.

“So let me get this straight: Sunset told Cosgrove that we would try to take one of them?” She asked, getting an answer with a nod. The Element of Honesty grabbed the harness by the hose - “And this is going to help us?”

“That’s what they said.” Answered Apple Bloom before she drew her lips into her mouth.

“They?” - Applejack leaned forward, raising an eyebrow at the rather fishy, and soon realized dangerous idea - “You went through the portal, didn’t you?”

“Yes…” - Apple Bloom’s bow drooped down then look down at the floor - “If they could do it, so could I…”

“But why would you want to do this?” - Applejack sat next to her sister - “Would it matter for you to capture one of those Predacons?”

“Because Cogsworth would still be around and cause disaster… Because of me.” Apple Bloom’s lips began to quiver.

“Well getting yourself killed wouldn’t show that you care.” - As Apple Bloom closed her eyes, Applejack rubbed her back - “Look, I don’t like this idea, but at least think about it before going too far.”

“Okay…” - Apple Bloom hugged her sister - “I promise.”

The darkest part of the following evening, a red ground bridge portal illuminated the sleeping city. Two Changeling drones came out of the portal, scanning the suburban town for any potential victims. Their pearl blue eyes spotted a target, a female figure standing next to a light post, the warm wind blowing her yellow and blue dress. The beasts kept to the shadows as they approached the figure. With a few clicks from their fangs, they snatched the figure, wrapping their chitinous claws around her mouth as they reached the portal, returning the darkened part of the world to its original lights and shadows once the portal closed. At street light above where the figure was, a bird-like figure erected his head and looked back.

“Suckers.” - Zipper drew out a small radar, grinning a the information relayed into the HUB computers, showing up as a red dot deep into the Rockies the next day.

“We will come into the caves at full force.” Sunset turned over to Cosgrove “Cosgrove, you will get the Maximals and Crusaders into the back caves and flank them out.”

“You got it.” Cosgrove acknowledged.

“Sonata and Aria have volunteered to seal the entrance of the caves. Once they are sealed, the rest of us will enter from an above shaft.” The debriefing over, Sunset looked at everyone about to undergo the dangerous mission “This won't be easy; many of us won't come out unscathed. Any questions?”

Chelsey was the first to raise her hand, “What would we do with the Predacons? What about Chrysalis, Sombra, and Grogar?”

Sunset took a deep breath, “For now, imprisonment.”

“Yeah, we'll need a zoo to keep them in.” Added Rainbow, giving Pinkie Pie something to chuckle about; Chelsey, Diver, and Zipper not so much.

“Prepare the artillery transports,” - Cosgrove chimed to his father - “we move immediately.”

Our heroes prepare for the assault, warming up their powers for the upcoming battle. For some, they require actual human weapons. Applejack grabbed her lasso, Cosgrove put on a pair of knuckle dusters (a touchy subject, for they are illegal to own in Colorado), Scootaloo wielded a few police batons, Tex grabbed a belt of gas grenades and SWAT shield. While they have prepared, Apple Bloom looked at the large vacuum, recalling her visit in Equestria as she did.

“When I fought the robot, I used an EMP spell.” - Cosgrove rubbed his chin - “It should work on your counterpart for at least awhile.”

“But if what you say is true, and probably is, given your family nature” - Cogsworth pulled forward on the wheelchair- “you are going to need a lot more firepower to get that mind control thing out of him.”

Cogsworth rolled over to a cabinet, pulling out the vacuum Apple Bloom now possessed.

“Ponyville originally had a Twittermite problem.” - the Hipparion was given the tool before giving it to Apple Bloom, pointing to the container - “This is built to contain their power, it should be able to store the plasma grenade energy you mentioned.”

"Good luck." - Cogsworth looked at the hulking suit - "You'll need it."

In the present, Apple Bloom looked at the vacuum one last time before picking it up and tightening up the harness. She took a deep breath and turned around. Dapplewood stood before her, studying the new piece of equipment before he took out his phone and chose a recording.

“Apple Bloom, Sunset and Twilight said we might disturb the balance by going into the portal.” Said Sweetie Belle’s voice.
“Only one of us. The Twilight in there did it, besides it should be a short while.” Said Apple Bloom's voice.
“Wait, you’re-?” Scootaloo’s last words before Apple Bloom ran through the portal, cutting off the connection.

Apple Bloom and Dapplewood looked at each other. Whatever the Crusader was planning, it would be just as crazy as their siege mission. She walked forward, kneeling before the boy.

“Look, I know things have been rough on the whole lot of us these past few months, and I know you don’t have much of a reason to trust me.” - Seeing the boy look away from her, Apple Bloom gently pinched his chin and turned his head towards her - “Please, give me this chance to make it right for all of us.”

As is his character, Dapplewood just stared at her. After the Anon-a-Miss fiasco and the botched up Valentine's Dance, Dapplewood continued to ponder at her idea. Being a person with the inability to speak, he kept to himself on their little secret. The boy slowly drew a smile when he felt a vibration in his pockets. He picked up his phone and answered it on speaker phone.

“Dapplewood, Apple Bloom, let’s go!” Said Sunset on the other side. The boy looked back at Apple Bloom, giving her a wink before leaving the room and joining up with his boss.

Back at the mountain lair, the two Changelings that came back screamed as Sombra tore them into pieces. The person they brought back was a dummy with very convincing doll eyes and wig.

“Stupid bugs!” - He growled before smashing the mannequin - “Can’t tell which is real or fake.”

“Logically it is only such that they would be attracted to the scents sprayed on by the mannequin.” Said Skystalker, receiving a glare from the crystallized human.

At the mouth of the cave, Cogsworth watched the landscape change color as the sun reached the mountains. No word has come whether the people he once called friends are going to admit defeat or not. It is only a matter of time before they perform hit and run attacks. They could only fight so much, someone will find out and Cogsworth's team will be the last thing for them to worry about.

“Why still think about them, Cogsworth?”

The mechanic shook his head.

“They didn't stop you two years ago in Camp Friendship, they never bothered calling you.”

Cogsworth groaned, baring his teeth as he clenched his fist. So much of his mind was at war with itself. Cosgrove was his friend for so long, why take the side of his enemies? How could one misunderstanding lead to this?

Cogsworth's answer will have to wait, for his audio receptors were picking up heavy gnashing sounds. Putting on the helmet, Cogsworth zoomed in, finding the two armored transports coming towards his direction. A new development for him, the Predacon pondered at how they were finally able to find their base. As the suit is techno-organic in nature, the armor grew over his uncovered arm, but with a steady power source, the original limb can remain alive, and worse retain his memories.

“Chrysalis, Sombra, we have an-” Cogsworth's receptors quickly picked up a sonic scream so powerful it even blew him to the side before sealing up the front of the cave. The mechanic looked up and saw that Sonata Dusk and Aria Blaze were in the air, dorsal fins and tails with glowing blue eyes instead of the original red. Igniting his thrusters, Cogsworth flew towards the city, shooing away the two Sirens with a few blasts of the plasma cannon.

“Galgameth!” Sombra roared, but there was no response before turning to Skystalker. “What's going on?!”

“We have two personnel carriers coming towards us,” the cyborg dragon pulled up a holographic map “ETA twenty minutes.”

“They’ll be torn apart in minutes!” Said Chrysalis before she turned to her Changelings. “Go, feed!!”

No questions asked, the swarm awoke and flew out of the vertical shaft to the sun-bleached plains. Immersing themselves in green goo, the Changelings dove towards the vehicles. One one the beasts landed too close and got crushed before it would emerge from its crater. Nevertheless, a majority of the assaulting beasts overwhelmed the personnel carries, their thick sharp claws making short work of the light armor. One Changeling tore off the lid, hissing at his enemies before giving a dumbfounded look. He turned to the next car, finding one of his rookery brothers with the same expression.

“They are not in the vehicles!” The drone communicated to his Queen.

“Then find them!” Shouted the mutated woman.

“No need to, ladybug!” The shaft the Changeling drones flew out of glowed green, Rainbow Dash being the first to land in the tunnel, followed by Pinkie Pie as she made a tae kwon do pose.

“Time to party!” Pinkie Pie drew out her party cannon and began firing pastries as her closest friends joined them.

Sunset activated her magic, aiming her hands at Sombra and Chrysalis. The two leaders gritted their teeth, but then smiled as their elite soldiers surrounded the Rainbooms. Grogar came out of the shadows behind them, easily towering the two.

“You must be very stupid for coming alone.” Growled the giant goat when a roar echoed the cave. The Preds turned to find Cosgrove and his Maximal posse ready for action.

“Not alone, mutton man.” Said Diver before she joined in the charge, throwing a few punches at Squirk. The anthropomorphic cephalopod squirted steaming hot ink at her eyes, wrapped her in his tentacles and tossed her aside.

Cosgrove and Zipper focused their efforts on Grogar, the stronger of the two trading blows on the goat’s chest. When the Maximal gets swatted away and is about to be stomped on, Zipper grabbed the goat by the nape and carried him across the cave, slamming the goat on the wall. Grogar batted the humanoid pterosaur before going on all fours and charging at Cosgrove, who halted the beast in his tracks by holding him by the horns and used the momentum to toss him aside.

“That's for Dapplewood, you bastard.” Cosgrove grunted before being rammed by Darksteel. Cosgrove won’t have the Ursagryph’s way this time and quickly tossed him over to Rainbow Dash. Her smaller stature once again proving useful, the athlete flew figure eights around the quadropedic Predacon, delivering several quick blows.

As Rarity also took on Caterina, Pinkie Pie against Rep, Chelsey and Tex against Skystalker, the Crusaders against Porcina and Blackarachnia, Chrysalis realized that without the drones, they were outnumbered by a difference of five.

“We must retreat!” - Chrysalis called out to her subordinates. Back outside, Sonata and Aria continued to unleash their sonic screams at Cogsworth as he swerved about and U-turned - “Galgameth, secure the crystal then regroup on my mark.”

Blackarachnia grabbed the real Porcina and lifted her up the shaft. Caterina and Squirk hopped on Darksteel and escaped as well followed by Skystalker and Rep, leaving Chrysalis, Sombra, and Grogar to be surrounded by their enemies.

“This isn’t over.” Sombra growled as he entered his shadow form, shrouding his colleagues in black mist and leaving without a trace as Rainbow Dash found out when she ran into the mist while it came out of the top shaft like volcano ash.

With the front entrance gone,Cogsworth went to the back tunnels. Using infrared imaging, the mechanic saw numerous heat signatures so close together that it appeared to be one large mass. When he saw one of the red silhouettes reach for her head, Cogsworth raised a radio antenna.

“Fluttershy, Dapplewood. How are you doing in collecting the relic?” - Try as she could, all she could hear is static. The mention of the two individuals turned Cogsworth’s attention to a separate, much smaller heat signature - “I can’t get a signal in these tunnels.”

Down at said location, Fluttershy and Dapplewood were busy prying out the gem. Physically it seemed impossible, for the Eye of Fashoom was supported by a ringlet of hooks on their crudely made ground bridge. Fluttershy opened up the cabinet next to the ring, finding simple wires of various colors while noticing two thicker wires. Using her finger, she found the locking mechanism to the gem. Her ears flicked to a clicking sound, the caretaker turned around before letting out a yelp. Cogsworth held the barrel of a plasma right at her. Dapplewood rushed forth , bridging himself between the gun and his supervisor at the pet store.

“Dapplewood, get out the way.” - Cogsworth motioned the gun one way, though it didn’t stop the boy from moving, standing firm as he shifted his eyes to the amulet around his neck - “What are you looking at?”

Fluttershy slapped his hand on the button, illuminating the chamber in a red light. Using the split second of Cogsworth’s distraction, Dapplewood grabbed the gun barrel, aimed it at the console and fired at it. The gem was sent upward before the boy caught it in his hands before rushing at the portal. By the time Cogsworth recovered and aimed his gun, the tunnel faded out, taking Dapplewood and the gem to destinations unknown. The caretaker curled back as Cogsworth’s face pinched and turned into a deeper shade of red. He aimed his weapon at her, frightening her even more with the infamous “kill shot.”

“No! Not Here!” he screamed in his mind.

“Yes, one less person to worry about.” Said another voice.

Cogsworth gritted his teeth, replacing the guns with drills, burrowing into the rock just as the Rainbooms arrived. Recovering the scared Fluttershy, the team rushed out of the tunnels, went around the mountains to see the completely totaled personnel carriers, with the Changeling swarm, having not received word on their retreat, on patrol.

“I’ll text Dapplewood!” Said Pinkie Pie as she reached for her phone.

“No!” Sunset said too late. A few seconds was all it took before Cogsworth erupted from the ground, ascending into the air faster than a Canada goose.

“All drones, direct your attack on the intruders!” He ordered through the radio. The Changelings turned their attention to the magic signatures of the enemies at their fallen hive. Hissing in rage, the landscape echoed with the rapid flapping of wings as they charged forth by the dozens.

“He’s on his own.” Muttered Zipper in a slightly scared tone.

The people at Estes Park looked up at the black dot zipping by. With a force greater than a jackhammer, Cogsworth left a small crater in the asphalt upon landing. As he stood up, he found one of the most unlikely places to hide, an abandoned construction site.

“So, you want to play hide and seek?” - He walks forward - “It’s okay… I’ll play fair and won’t use the heat vision.”

Entering the metallic skeleton, Cogsworth looked around back and forth, waving and pointing his plasma cannon at any possible noise. From pigeon wings to water droplets, to rats scurrying for darker places, all that was needed was a loud clang. Five floors searched and he opted to use his scanner.

“No phone signal detected.” - Said his interface. Cogsworth tapped another button, bringing up another interface - “Zero magic signature detected.” - He tried another radar, seeing a very steady and slow heart rate.

“He knows he’s being hunted…” - Cogsworth tapped at the boll weevil snout - “Interesting…”

Searching floor after floor, the fox hunt began to agitate him by the time he reached the top of the construction site. At last Cogsworth found what he came for. The boy was sitting on a dusty metal folding chair. His arms were tucked inward as if holding something. Beneath the mask, the Predacon sneered as he quietly stepped forward. Slowly drawing out his blade, Cogsworth placed his hand on the smallish Maximal, gripping his shoulder, then spun the chair around. He aimed his blade, taking aback at what he saw the mishmash of a wash mop, an old work shirt, and towels. In its arms wasn’t the Eye of Fashoom, but a helmet marked with words that read,

“Gotcha.”

Cogsworth staggered forward, keeping his balance while sparks echoed the construction site. Dapplewood lodged a steel rod on into one of his thrusters, pulling it out and jabbed into the other.

“Propulsion units heavily damaged” - Said the interface - “Flight mode disabled.”

Cogsworth turned around and looked at the boy he had seen since Cosgrove’s first day at school in Estes Park. Underneath the neutral stare of the mask, his face was furious. Behind Dapplewood was the Eye of Fashoom, just one turn and he could grab it and run clean away.

“What was it that Sunset asked, ‘That you should seek help on larger bullies?’” - Cogsworth’s answer a snorted nod from Dapplewood, he drew out a plasma cannon - “You’ll be all alone then.”

Putting on the sunglasses, Dapplewood began to glow. His feet extended and losing a few toes, his head balding with a longer-horned snout and growing a small tail, the boy accepted the challenge by forcing air along his throat to make a sound like a vulture. Dodging a few blasts, the boy rushed and vaulted onto Cogsworth. As the mechanic thrashed about, Dapplewood grabbed a sledgehammer and started thwacking at the boll weevil snout, bending it down before concentrating on the eyes.

Cogsworth grabbed the boy and thrown him forward, cursing his name as he thrashed wildly. As he did, Dapplewood grabbed his phone and began texting. The message reaching the HUB in a heartbeat, Twilight quickly typed in the coordinates and pressed the button. The bridge appearing before him, Dapplewood rushed forward and prepared to leap at the boom tube. He was just a finger away when a grapple wrapped around his leg and pulled back, sending the gem flying at the portal and to the other side before the bridge closed.

Sunset’s group started to tire as wave after wave of Changelings came after them. The less physically strong of the group such as Fluttershy and Rarity got nips and claw marks before they were tossed aside.

“This is harder than that horde mode we played at Pinkie’s!” Said Applejack before she uppercuts a Changeling.

Flapping his wings in quick succession, Zipper captured the humanoid bugs in a twister. Rainbow Dash, circling around the makeshift tempest, swooped in and sucker punched them out one by one.

“But this is much more awesome!” She exclaimed before returning to the fight.

Sunset lashed one of the beasts in a green tendril, pulling it forward before sending it flying with a pulse.

“Sunset,” - Twilight buzzed - “I got good news and bad news!”

“Spit it out!” Sunset ordered before another Changeling smacked her.

“Goods news is I got the Eye of Fashoom.”

Sunset blasted the Changeling that assaulted her, finding enough space before tapping into her comm. “And Dapplewood?”

“That’s the bad news.” - Twilight kept tapping for the exact coordinates to no avail - “I can’t get a lock on him, but I can get an approximate position.”

Sunset turned to her Maximal second in command as he pounded a bug into goop, “Cosgrove, Twilight is about to open another portal.” - On cue said portal opened - “Go, we’ll cover you!”

As the sophomore Maximal rushed into the boom tube, a spying Changeling swooped down and latched it’s claws at his shoulders. Once he ran out the other side, Cosgrove pulled the Changeling off his back, slamming his knuckle dusters on the beast’s head. The Changeling shielded itself with its perforated arms before biting onto his shoulder. As he yelled in pain, the Changeling pushed back to gain some distance.

Higher up the construction site, the battle between Cogsworth and Dapplewood continued. With plenty of debris and large objects to use for cover and weaponry, the boy’s small size worked to his advantage. Grabbing a few steel rods his height, Dapplewood made a series of hit and run maneuvers. Cogsworth tried to swing his long sword, but the heavy blade gave the boy an open spot to attack. Cogsworth growled before changing the sword into a glass canister containing compressed air. Unable to use his visor, the mechanic aimed the canister at any possible source of sound. Hiding atop a container, Dapplewood saw the Predacon let his guard down for one moment before crouching down and pouncing at him. In one quick moment, Cogsworth shattered the container onto the boy’s face, getting him a full dosage of the compressed air. The boy fell on the floor, straining himself as his joints ached and his respiratory system become swollen. Even breathing through his mouth was laborious as Dapplewood flopped on the floor like a hooked trout.

“Just as I figured. Valley fever runs in your family.” - Cogsworth squatted down - “But to you it’s just like mustard gas.” - The mechanic watched the boy’s face become blue while his eyes rolled back. Using a little bit of his blade, Cogsworth made an incision at Dapplewood’s neck, sparing him from suffocation as the air rushed down his esophagus. Standing tall again, Cogsworth eyed the discarded cell phone.
Twilight heard her cell phone ring again, picking it up and seeing Dapplewood’s profile picture.

“Dapple-!”

“Get a ground bridge to the following coordinates…” Said the exact opposite person she would expect.

Cosgrove pinned down the Changeling, grabbed both of its jaws and began to pulled them apart long enough to hear a loud snap. With the battle at the mountains and his now slain enemy, the Maximal hunched down and began to pant. He remembered his mission when his ears picked up the woosh sound of the ground bridge. With what remained of his stamina, Cosgrove rushed up each floor, reaching the fifth story when he heard the portal close.

“Twilight, did Dapplewood get through?”

“No, we did.” - Cosgrove’s eyes widened; Cogsworth was on the other side of the line, holding Dapplewood’s phone with surprising dexterity - “Now listen very carefully: bring the rock to the Morrison Basin, alone, and you get your brother. And I suggest you bring one of those rainbow-colored apples, because once that wound closes, Dapplewood will have a minute before the valley fever kicks the bucket.”

Hearing the jeopardy of his brother being choked by a biological deficiency, Cosgrove gritted his teeth when he hung up. “That’s just prime…” He said with a twitching lip.

“Cosgrove, what’s your status?” Sunset asked from the comm unit.

Cosgrove tapped into his earpiece again,“He took him, boss. And he wants me to bring the Eye of Fashoom alone.”

“Alone?” - Sunset said with an uncertain tone in her voice - “Return to base immediately, we’ll-”

“Twilight,” - Cosgrove interrupted - “send a ground bridge to the Morrison formation.”

“Cosgrove, we have to be smart about this” - Sunset chimed back to Twilight’s frequency - “Twilight, have us regroup at Canterlot High.”

Twilight took off her glasses and rubbed her temples. What orders should she take? On one side, there is the person who saved her from herself during the Friendship Games. On the other side was one of their best subordinates… No… best friends. And now that friend’s little brother has contracted a deadly allergy, and in need of immediate care. She looked down to see Spike place his paw on her knee, looking at her with puppy eyes.With a groan, she reached out to the control panel of the HUB.

“You better get to the gem first before Cogsworth does.” She answered as she typed the coordinates to the fossil formation.

“Twilight!” - Sunset exclaimed before coming back to Cosgrove’s frequency - “ Cosgrove, stop what you are-”

Cosgrove cut off Sunset’s communication before he ran into the ground bridge. When he reached the other side, the first thing he saw was the gem itself as Twilight had warned. After the portal dissipated, Cosgrove looked around the fossil formation, looking for any sign of his brother. Or for that matter, if Cogsworth was going to snipe him.

“Come out, Cogsworth.” - Cosgrove looked around - “This has to end.”

Leaving the sounds to the wind and the occasional eagle, Cosgrove’s ears picked up metallic clangs against footsteps. Cogsworth walked up the hill, holding an Apatosaurus skull in his hand. The sight of the armor being damaged surprised the Maximal. He wouldn’t have to use a bridge if he could still fly. Stopping twenty feet away from his former colleague, Cogsworth dropped the skull, shattering the lower jaw as it collided with the rock.

“You think that losing my legs, or a smashed hard drive is what really drove me mad? Or is this the real me?” He asked when he placed his foot on the skull and crushed it into dust. He then shifted his leg back, raising his fists and circling them around. “Mano y Mano, monstruo?”

There is no way to get him to talk now, not without a fight. Cosgrove clenched his hand, popped his neck, and began to walk forward. Cogsworth walking in sync, the two quickly came to a sprint, raising their fists before giving each other a blow to the face. The two stagged back; Cosgrove spat blood onto the rock, while Cogsworth rubbed the gauntlet on his bloodied gums.

“Not bad.” - Cosgrove complemented while moving his shoulder - “Even though Dapplewood busted some of your toys.”

“You disobeyed my orders, Twilight!” For one straight minute, Sunset berated Twilight for following Cosgrove’s suggestion and not hers. And now there are two people in need of help if Cosgrove survived the fight at all. The rest of the group stood back, not wanting to be dragged into the chasting. Applejack soon gained courage and walked towards the angered Sunset and placed a hand on her shoulder.

“Sunset-”

“Not now, Applejack!” - Sunset yelled, pulling her clutched shoulder forward before turning to Twilight - “If Cosgrove doesn’t survive this, I would never-!”

“Now that’s enough!” - Applejack spun Sunset around and held her steady - “Look, this can be a good thing too. Cosgrove left a window for us to treat Dapplewood!”

“Yeah!” - Pinkie Pie put on her spy suit, muffling her voice as she crawled on the floor - “We just sneak over, grab Dapplewood, bring him over her, and presto! We have saved two birds with one stone.”

“No!” - Sunset retorted, pulling the Pink Wonder’s skin tight mask - “I won’t have any more of us risking their lives.”

“He did say come alone…” - Twilight muttered, getting everyone’s attention before she turned back to the control panel - “I can send you fifty meters away from the coordinates Cogsworth gave me.”

Sunset’s mind boggled with confusion and anger. As her conscience cleared as it counted to ten, she figured they had a point. Cosgrove distracting Cogsworth so that one party can retrieve Dapplewood and have him hospitalized can be a good idea, and even better when they provide an ambush to finally get Cogsworth via a second party.

“We can do that.” - Scootaloo added as she crossed her arms while Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom stood next to her - “I mean all we have to is follow the roar right?”

Scootaloo is proven right; various pheasants and prairie hens scattered around as a loud roar echoed the basin. Cogsworth dug his feet into the ground as he held back Cosgrove’s advances. Stepping on his metallic shoes, the Maximal gave the Predacon a good shove bringing him down on the ground. A few meters away, a curious prairie dog popped out of his hole just in time to see Cogsworth uppercut Cosgrove by the chin. The two then held each other at arm’s distance again, twisting and pulling to find an advantage.

“You know, for all it’s worth, we’re just god's.” - Cogsworth added as he twisted his arms left - “Think about, you a wildman, and I a walking armory. We can do great things!”

Cosgrove pushed himself forward, bringing his face closer to the Predacon’s. “That’s not how things are done.”

Cogsworth operated the mechanical tail, aiming it at Cosgrove’s left leg. With a quick jab to the leg and injecting the anesthetic, the Maximal staggered. Cogsworth pulled Cosgrove close, spun him around, and held him in a headlock. Cosgrove tried to get back up, but the serum stopped even his pinkie toe from moving.

“So what really gets into your skin?” - Cogsworth tightened his grip around Cosgrove, inching his blade towards the Maximal’s face - “That I’m your biggest failure or I have become a better Maximal than you?”

Cosgrove reached back, grabbed Cogsworth by the face, and rolled forward, freeing himself from the vice grip. “Maximals don’t kill!”

“Yeah?” Cogsworth got back up on his feet “But they can get others to fear them, and bring their loved ones in danger!”

“What?” - Cosgrove shook his head as he raised his arms - “What are you talking about?”

“I was there to see your little conversation with Apple Bloom.” - We are sent into Cogsworth’s perspective of the Valentine’s Day Dance in a Mirage Comics style - “The fear in her eyes as she confronted the anger burning in you, just waiting to come out. You think that forgiving her will make her swoon over you? She fears you, Cosgrove. And from her will come her friends, family, and even yours.” - We come out of the vision, seeing Cosgrove a little shaken. At a distance, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo peeked from behind a rock, watching Cogsworth extend his blade - “And now, your little brother is placing his trust on you while the valley fever strangles him.”

Seeing Cogsworth point in the general direction, the Crusaders snuck around, finding Dapplewood sitting upright against a rock as he tries to make another breath. Taking out a slice of Zap Apple, Sweetie Belle opened his mouth wide and shoved it as deep into his swollen mouth as she could. The youngster closed his mouth and gulped down the slice, feeling the hard skin travel down his throat and slap into his stomach. The acids working with the fruit slice, the healing magic worked with the inflamed respiratory system. The air passages open, Dapplewood took in a deep breath before coughing.

Back at Cosgrove and Cogsworth, the former just stood there as his mind began to open. Is this what he really is, a walking powder keg with a lit fuse. Has he really dragged his friends further in mud? So many questions ran throughout his mind, biting into his nerves.

“Face it, Cosgrove. Your friends bring harmony, you and your posse just enforce it.” Cogsworth saw Cosgrove looked up at him with feral eyes, prompting the mechanic to draw forth his blade. “Is that how Sunset would want? is that how your brother would want? Is that how Night Dancer would want?”

Cosgrove growled as his body began to glow. His body size increased, his face becoming more ape-like, his fingers and toes clawed, and growing a spiny tail, the Maximal got on all fours, curling back his lips before letting out a loud bray. As he charged forth, Cogsworth grabbed the beast by the head and brought him down on the floor, holding Cosgrove steady as he aimed the blade at his neck. The Maximal was quick to roll over, shuffling back before he gave the Predacon a smack with his tail.

Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo carried the exhausted Dapplewood towards a ground bridge. Apple Bloom kept turning back and forth to the fight between the beast and the armored man. Sweetie Belle noticed this before turning around.

“Apple Bloom, come on!” Sweetie Belle begged as Apple Bloom returned to the battle.

“Come on, Sweetie Belle!” Scootaloo beckoned, having Sweetie Belle to continue on. When they reached Canterlot High, an ambulance was already stationed. Medical officials came running with a stretcher, standing it erect before taking Dapplewood.

Fluttershy was quick to notice one Crusader absent, “Where’s Apple Bloom!?”

When Cosgrove stood on his hind legs, Cogsworth jumped up at him, using the momentum to climb on his back and dig the blade deep. Cosgrove howled in pain, tossing and turning wild to shake Cogsworth off and give him a slap with his paw. He continued to howl while he tried to reach for the blade. Cogsworth struggled to sit straight, watching the Maximal return a death glare. All gloves are off, Cosgrove began to charge with as much speed his injured legs can offer. Cogsworth drew his plasma cannon.

“Energy too low to use weapon.” said his interface.

“Then switch to life functions!” Cogsworth orders as Cosgrove ran closer.

“Use of life function energy will result in organ failure.”

“Override!” He ordered, giving the barrel of the cannon its usual glow before releasing a shot that seared the skin on Cosgrove’s front left leg.

Like a horse falling in a race, Cosgrove fell forward, slamming his chest on the dirt. Cogsworth rolled to his left, dodging the fallen body as it skidded to a stop. The mechanic strained himself up, wrapping his arm around his stomach as he felt a bit queazy. He turned to see Cosgrove moaning in pain as he tried to get up. He walked forward, using his foot to pin the Maximal’s head.

“That’s your problem, Cosgrove.” - Cogsworth squatted down - “You only care for your fighting spirit, and got everyone else to fight. But don’t worry.” - Cogsworth aimed the plasma cannon at Cosgrove’s head - “I’ll do you fast, old pal.”

“No.” - Hearing the familiar southern accent, Cogsworth turned around. Apple Bloom was behind him, holding the Twittermite vacuum in her hand - “Please… If it makes you any happier, take me instead.”

Cogsworth raised an eyebrow before lifting his foot and grabbing Cosgrove by the hair.

“No tricks?” he warns, raising the broken blade against the Maximal’s throat.

Apple Bloom raised her arm and began with a crossing motion. “Cross my heart… Hope to fly… Stick a cupcake in my eye.”

Cogsworth moved his pursed lips around, then drew the blade and plasma cannon back and turned Cosgrove’s head towards him.

“You will watch this.” - He hissed before turning back to Apple Bloom and pointed at the horizon - “Turn around and walk ten paces.”

Turning around like so, Apple Bloom began the walk. As she took her second step, she heard Cogsworth place his foot on Cosgrove’s side. Her third and fourth steps, Cogsworth opened his chest region, supporting himself by anchoring the tail stinger to the ground. As the final step drew near, the Crusader closed her eyes, taking a deep breath.

The darkness of her closed eyes soon brightened up, showing her homeland from a proportionally larger perspective. Apple Bloom giggled and squealed as she chased her older siblings around the yard. But her legs were still a little wobbly and soon fell down face first on the grass.

“Mama, mama!” - Apple Bloom heard as she lifted her head and cried. When she opened her teary eyes, she saw a pair of thick boots underneath a flowery gown, kneeling down to pick her up.

“Hush now, little blossom.” Said a soothing voice as she rocked the baby. Hushed to a sniffle, Apple Bloom looked up with sleepy eyes. The best she could see the person carrying her was a yellow blur before she drifted into sleep.

Apple Bloom opened her eyes as she took her ninth step. Cogsworth had the Plasma Grenade at full charge; he had to lean forward just a bit to balance himself further. Cosgrove shut his eyes and drew his ears back.

“Adios.” The Predacon jerked back and released the energy. As it spiraled towards her, Apple Bloom turned around, raised the vacuum, and pulled the trigger. Cogsworth’s eyes widened as his most powerful weapon was sucked up into the chamber, giving it a bright glow. Now fully exposed, and out energy to defend himself, Apple Bloom aimed the vacuum and pulled the trigger. The grenade trailed back, hitting Cogsworth at his chest, and is sent flying a good distance from Cosgrove. The Predacon tried to get up, but the energy drained and later used against him was too much and so he fainted.

Apple Bloom walked over to Cosgrove, who just breathed faintly. Placing the rest of the Zap Apple in his mouth, the Crusader grabbed the embedded blade and began to pull, drawing out blood as it oozed from the wound. Chewing the apple, Cosgrove stopped the bleeding before he changed back into his human form. Standing back up, the two sophomores walked over to Cogsworth and picked him up. As they staggered under the weight of the armored teenager, Apple Bloom leaned her head forward; the amulet wasn’t destroyed, but the gem at the center was cracked. Either way, the fact that Cogsworth is still breathing gave them relief.

Their bodies were given a touch of a blue-green hue as another ground bridge opened up. Exiting the portal were Sunset, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash. The rainbow haired athlete was taken aback as she saw the rough and tough tumble the Maximal and Crusader risked death for. Sunset took a glance at her close friend as she walked by him and picked up the gem.

“Twilight, get another ambulance ready.” Sunset communicated through her comm unit as she turned back to her friends - “We’re taking a prisoner.”

Prometheus Unbound Part 2: Dark Glass

View Online

With the populace of Estes Park largely on an AWOL status, the hospital can focus on their patients in peace. Among them, Dapplewood rested on the clinic bed, an IV unit connected to his left arm and a nasal cannula attached to an oxygen tank. I breathe slowly in Rhythm to the heart monitor. A few rooms down rested Cogsworth, but compared to the much younger Maximal, the Predacon was on her condition. Still, in full body armor, his limbs were strapped to the bars of the bed, With the armor covering the vital organs, the best the doctors and nurses could do is attach a heart monitor patch on his exposed neck.

At the waiting room, the past battle was discussed in a rather lukewarm manner. Twilight Sparkle, Apple Bloom, and Cosgrove having disobeyed a command sat on chairs while their manager paced around the room. In light of the Dapplewood almost succumbing to valley fever a nurse prepared an injection to ease the allergy.

“How can you risk your life on an idea that wouldn't work?” Set Sunset to Apple Bloom.

“You haven't been out of danger as well” muttered the Crusader.

“Excuse me?!” - Sunset towered over Apple Bloom. Applejack prepared to be defensive, holding back until her friend got too far - “I gave you an order to just retrieve Dapplewood and come back. I could have helped Cosgrove then.”

“By then, it would be too late.” - Cosgrove rolled up his sleeve, giving the nurse approval to inject the solution into his arm - “What would I be if I was dead?”

“He’s right, Sunset dearest.” - Rarity placed her hand on Sunset's shoulder - “Thanks to them, we still have that lovely gem and we have captured that bru” - she stammers, correcting herself - “former acquaintance.”

Sunset wasn't that different for what they did. They have what they needed, but almost at the cost of their own lives. If she was only quicker, she could have helped. She kept a firm look at Apple Bloom when her older sibling stepped in.

“If it makes you any happier, Apple bloom will be grounded for the rest of the week.”

Cosgrove practice head up looking to the person who helped him. The Crusader’s bow dropped as she is led towards the exit. She exchanged a glance with him as she did before continuing her leave. The Maximal stood up and walked towards the elevator.

“Cosgrove, I'm not-” Sunset was stopped when Chelsey kept her at arm's length.

“Right now, his family needs him.” - She replied in an angry tone - “Something that hasn’t been applying to you in this war.”

Chelsey gave her equally tall friend a gentle shove before she, Zipper, Tex and Diver walked towards the exit. Now with five of her friends in a rut, Sunset pinched the bridge of her nose and let out a soft groan.

“Uhm… Sunset…” Fluttershy's cautious approach stopped when she saw Sunset's hand in the air.

“No, we're done here.” - Sunset turned to the other Rainbooms and Crusaders - “Let’s get some rest, we earned it.”

“Here, here.” Rarity agreed as they left the hospital.

Cosgrove sat next to his resting brother, watching him sleep so peacefully. Aside from the small bandage on his neck to provide a breathing orifice, there isn’t much to say regarding any wounds. Certainly, a few sessions at the hospital and the boy could return home. He took out his cell phone, scrolling it over to Apple Bloom’s caller ID photo. He stared at it while he recalled his battle with the patient next door.

“The fear in her eyes as she confronted the anger burning in you, just waiting to come out. You think that forgiving her will make her swoon over you? She fears you, Cosgrove. And from her will come her friends, family, and even yours.”

Cosgrove relaxed his eyes and powered down his cell phone. Perhaps now isn’t a good time for reconciliation. He gently lifted Dapplewood’s youthful hand, wrapping it in his own hands. He will make it up to him somehow. Perhaps there will be happier times. His moment was interrupted when he heard the door open, finding Nurse Red Heart with a small clipboard.

“Visiting hours are over, sir.” She said.

Cosgrove looked at his unconscious brother, placing the scathed Maximal charm into his hand. “Fight it...” he said before standing up and walking towards the door.

A day has passed and the city is still relatively empty. Though no threat has happened in the city, no further reports of abductions, Twilight was on alert as she looked at the radar from her home. Not a single energy signature within a fifty-mile radius outside the city. Ever curious, Spike trotted over to his owner's side, seeing her constantly tapping her pencil on the wooden table.

“Twilight,” - He hopped on Twilight's lap - “Why don't you take a break?”

“I can't spike, not with former Crystal Prep alumni and students about.” She lifted her glasses and rubbed her temples. She felt something on her shoulder, turning around to see her brother, Shining Armor, holding her shoulder with an encouraging smile.

“I say Spike speaks for all of us as well, Twily.” - The captain looked at the radar - “Even with some kind of jammer, we’ll know if-”

“That's it!” - Twilight hearing the mention of jamming technology rang in her head as she ran to her room - “I knew they were using something, but they never found it at the base! It's in each one of them, and I know just who to ask.”

She rushed out of the door, finding that her brother's police car is parked in front of the driveway. She turned to her family members and gave a pleading grin. The man and his dog looked at each other with a grimace before Shining took out his car keys.

Over at the hospital, Shock Drive and Pin Wheel walked inside, finding Nurse Red Heart sorting file after file.

“May I help you?” Red Heart asked as she placed a file into the cabinet. She kept her attention at the two parents as they walked to the counter.

“We want to see our boy.” Said Pin Wheel.

Doctor Horse took over soon after, leading them to the infirmary. The two peeked at each glass window; many of them were without a patient, one in particular, held the resting Dapplewood. One door had a pair of officers standing guard.

“In light of these recent events, I humbly suggest you take caution.” He turned to the guards and gave them a nod. The guard on their left reached out and turned the doorknob. When the two parents entered the room, the doctor closed the door. Though a little skeptical, the guards honored the decision and kept to their post. The father of the family approached the dormant child, rubbing his face ever so gently. He turned to his wife, who gave a small, dry chuckle.

Shining Armor dropped off his sibling and pet before parking the car. When he caught up to them inside, he stepped towards the reception desk.

“May I help you?” Asked Nurse Red Heart for the second time.

“Yes,” - Shining Armor displayed his badge - “we're here to visit Cogsworth.”

“I'm sorry, but he is occupied at the moment.” Red Heart responded before she continued sorting.

“Occupied?” Spike lifted his body while in Twilight's arms.

“Yes, his parents are visiting him.”

Shining Armor raised a brow, “I thought they vacated to a more remote location while the city evacuated?”

“No, sir” - the nurse turned back to them - “They have just arrived ten minutes ago.”

Twilight and Spike widened their eyes; two of the scattered populace, back here in a day? Shining Armor took out his radio.

“All units, we have a 10-33 at the Estes Park Hospital, I repeat we have a code 10-33!”

“10-4. Backup is en route.” Answered Clamp Jaw from the other side.

While the police response is swift, a lot can happen in a short span of time. As the guards listened to the radio outside, the two guests inside changed into the monstrous insects. The one that was Shock Drive destroyed the heart monitor with a swipe of its claws. The guards slammed the door open, drawing out their pistols.

“Freeze!” Shouted one of them.

In sync with the Changelings turning around, Cogsworth's eyes shot open, this time with dry blue in a black void. He broke his bonds and began to stand up. The guards and Changelings turned as the armored boy stood on the porcelain floor and drew his broken blade. On the lobby floor, gunshots were easily heard, driving the people in the building into a panic.

“Come on, move, move!” Shining directed everyone out as he could. Amidst the chatter and thunderous footsteps, Spike barked as loud as he could. The captain looked around, finding his sister lost among the crowd.

“Sunset, we have trouble at the hospital!” It took Twilight running eight flights of stairs to reach the infirmary. The guards were knocked out cold and the Changelings squealed in agony as parts of them splattered against the wall. The armored boy came out of the room, taking a deep breath as a criminal would out of a penitentiary. He looked at the Crystal Prep student, who looked confused at the different eyes. The mechanic blinked, returning his eyes to their natural purple.

“Twi… Light?” He asked in a tired tone.

Shining Armor barged into the hallway, drawing out a stun gun as he bridged himself between the two. “Cogsworth, I do not want to resort to using this...” he said in a pleading voice.

“No, of course not, not at all” - Cogsworth placed his hand over his head before groaning. He looked up again with the weird eyes - “I just want Twilight’s head on a platter.”

Shining steadied the nonlethal weapon at the charging mech. Twilight bridged herself between her brother and Cogsworth.

“Cogsworth, stop!” She pleaded.

The mechanic blinked once more, returning to his natural eyes. He stopped for a moment then blinked again, showing the weird eyes and continued his assault. The Sparkle children drew her head back as every time Cogsworth continued to blink, his persona changed with it. He knelt down, held his head and thwacked the floor with his feet. When his eyes became normal, they looked around fast and spied the gun. He got up and staggered towards them. He held the captain by the uniform.

“Help… Me!” He cried out, his left eye being the weird one.

Twilight remembered that cry. The same plea of help she made in the third match of the Friendship Games. She grabbed the taser and jabbed it between his shoulders. The red body inside the dark armor shook rapidly before collapsing on the floor. The two looked at the unconscious body as it layed there peacefully. Shining’s radio buzzed and whirred.

“Captain Armor, come in.”

Shining Armor grabbed the radio, “I read you, the situation has been contained.”

It didn’t take long for a small construction team to arrive and begin repairs in the room. Law officials called in a chemical team over to destroy the Changeling bodies. The two wounded guards shared a room in the infirmary, having suffered a few gashes. Cogsworth himself was moved to another facility. Strapped down to his neck against the bed, the Predacon was immobile. Sunset paced around the room, holding the journal in one hand and spinning a pencil in another. Twilight kept watch for any sign of movement, Spike letting out a small growl. After waiting a while, the journal shined once more between its pages. Sunset opened the book, flipping over to the most recent page.

“I guess your Apple Bloom didn’t tell you about the amulet around his neck, did she?”

Sunset turned away from the book and walked towards the comatose body. The damaged amulet around his neck fizzled a few seconds time and again. She grabbed the trinket and began to pull, but it still held in place. Sunset grabbed it with both hands and pulled as hard as she could. The amulet kept an iron grip on his chest region. She turned over to the journal and continued to read.

“When we got back from Saddle Arabia, I read a little about the ability to possess an individual, and what she has described reminded me of the stories I’ve heard of our Trixie succumbing to the evil of the so-called Alicorn Amulet. I’m certain your first reaction would be to remove it, but such trinkets can only be removed by the wearer him or herself. When such trinkets are damaged, the persona of the trinket and the wearer will clash for dominance of the body. Sunset, this requires immediate action; some of our most notorious criminals aside from the big ones had their original persona lose the battle.”

Beads of sweat ran down her forehead before Sunset began to write, “What would I have to do to have him remove the amulet?”

She waited a moment before the journal shined again.

“From what I can understand, you have to reach into Cogsworth’s mind telepathically and convince his original psyche that he is in control. But I have to warn you, failed sessions without proper cut-off resulted in the therapist performing the spell to lose his mind.
Take care,
Cosgrove the Pony.”

Sunset knew what he meant; she did perform a similar spell to her world’s Twilight when she was corrupted during the Friendship Games. She walked over to the comatose body.

“I need to be alone.” She knelt down and began reaching for Cogsworth’s head.

“Sunset, do you need my help.” - Twilight’s question wasn’t met with any response. She walked away - “Be careful then.”

Closing the door on the way out, Sunset relaxed, surrounding herself in an opal aura. The aura then condensed in a series of small balls and swirled around her, blowing her hair upward before the orbs turned white and swirled faster. The infirmary room shined bright, even far away sections of Estes Park such as Sweet Apple Acres and Great Valley Drive, the remaining citizens can see a bright object aside from the sun. Back inside, the light began to die down. Sunset Shimmer appeared in a completely different attire; instead of her usual biker clothes, she now wore a white and pink dress worthy of a grand ball, with red-gold boots and Easter blue gloves, around her eyes was a deeper orange, and two rays of light sprouted from her back like wings as well as her forehead like a horn. She reached out and touched Cogsworth’s head.

When she opened her eyes, Sunset found herself in a dark void, the light from her “wings” illuminating three feet of floor and walls. The walls were appeared to be sets of pistons. Perhaps this was Cogsworth’s version of human imagination: in a hypothesis, each individual has a dreamscape that fits their interests and talents. And now, with him comatose, the machinations of his mind have shut down. She walks forward, using her sense of touch to guide her down the deeper parts of his mind. One look to her left and she found a metal plate with the word, “Memorabilia” etched on it.

The tunnel immediately lit with several computer screens turning on one by one. Sunset continued her walk at a slower pace at each screen. The first one she saw was set in a rocky canyon. In front were couple students she could recognize as Dinky and Pipsqueak being led by a much taller classmate. Their journey was interrupted when a boulder cut off their route. The children turned and ran towards the exit. The view shifted up to see rocks falling down before looking forward again. The “camera” as it were turned to a cry for help. Cogsworth picked up Dinky and tossed her to Pipsqueak as he collapsed to the ground. The “camera” shut itself off, the last thing is a loud scream.

The next screen showed him in a laboratory. The view turned to a science teacher at a centrifuge. Turning around, she presented Cogsworth with a small gun and two darts filled with a glowing substance.

“Now what we need, are test subjects.” The teacher pulled out a list “I believe these would be the best ones.”
Cogsworth took a look at the list. They were many of Crystal Preps Senior Class, including those of the Shadow Bolts.
“An interesting choice of candidates, but why Seniors?” - He and Chrysalis turned to a glass beaker shattering on the floor. The people responsible were two Sophomore boys; one was skinny, green blue in skin color with black hair and glasses, the other was much more muscular, with a yellow-orange skin and blue clothing. Cogsworth loaded up the gun. - “Besides, it's always better to use still growing individuals.”
He fired the darts at their necks. As his view is moved back, he watched as the two boys became larger and animalistic. One became more reptilian as his skull shaped itself to be more like an alligator and wings appear. The other also sprouted wings but became more ursine as his head shaped itself like an eagle. In the reflection on the plastic doors, Cogsworth's reflection gave a stern look; the two beasts inside admired their appearance before letting out a loud roar.

Some of the monitors were becoming more of an oddball as Sunset began to find out. One vision showed the "camera" leading Twilight away.

“Oh no dear friend, I believe you completely. I know how blunt the honest ones can be that's why I had to leave them you know, they simply had no vision!”
“We didn’t mean that…” Said a sad squeaky voice
“Grand!” Roma turned around “Then we all agree that the only way for her to be Fall Formal Princess is, as they say, convince-”

The next monitor was most perplexing. The “camera” was in the air, with Twilight and the Rainbooms beside her. Sunset herself, the Maximals, Flash and, curious enough, Cogsworth, was in the view.

“I won’t let you do that!” - Yelled Twilight - “The portal will close soon!”
“Oh really? Do you think that’s going to stop me?” - The owner of the view pointed to herself with a blue claw - “Sierra, Lorraine and I have magic, and you have nothing! We may have to wait a while, but when we do, we would have control of this world! First the police, then the National Guard, then the United States military, then all of the world! Why do you still hope for the better?"
Rainbow Dash stood up, “Because she has us!” she answered before Rarity, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and even Fluttershy stood next to Twilight.

“Sierra and Lorraine?” - Sunset’s eyes widened -“These aren’t Cogsworth’s memories, they’re-!” The screens shut down on their own, leaving the lighting to Sunset's angelic form.

“It has been a while,” Hearing a light switch flip on with a loud clack, Sunset turned to the source of light, showing a shadowy figure beneath it - “hasn't it, Sunset Shimmer?”

Sunset walked towards the light with caution. That voice, how the figure remembers her, the memories inside Cogsworth's head.

“Roma Candle?” She asked, taking longer to land a step.

“The one and only.” Her face out of sight, the silhouette smiled a toothy grin.

“But, how?” - Sunset came into the light - “All this time, we thought you were-”

“Oh, Sunset, Sunset.” - Roma’s silhouette turned around, stepping towards the light - “I’m not dead…” - The first thing that came out was a digitigrade foot, scraping the ground with curved claws - “just something a little cosmetic surgery won’t fix.”

Indeed, Roma’s right eye doesn’t have a sclera, and the left half of her face resembled the demon form they had fought two years ago. She kept her wings folded against her body, giving the impression that she is wearing a dress.

“You seem to have had quite an upgrade.” - Roma tugged against Sunset's pink blouse - “The wings though could use a little red.”

Sunset shook her head, “Where is Cogsworth?”

“My are you impatient.” Roma scoffed before seeing her former classmate ball up her hand, glowing a bright yellow. That didn't stop her from giving Sunset a smug look.

“Tell me what you've done!” Sunset fired a blast of light at the demonic figure, dissipating Roma in a cloud of smoke. The spotlight died down again before another, much larger spotlight displayed a wheelchair in front of her. She walked into the light, and around the chair. The wheelchair has its wheels nailed to the floor, and its rider appeared much more emaciated than what the outside world suggests. He just sat there, staring at the floor like a vegetable.

“Oh, he tried to fight me at first, believe me, he did.” - Roma stepped into the light, placing her claws around the frail boy - “But all the stress in his school and all that magic, that all it took was one stupid, jealous farm girl and her amigas to snowball everything. He’s mine now...”

“No,” - Sunset lit up another ball of energy - “you don’t belong in his body.”

“And who’s gonna make us?” - Roma watched her “guest” cock her head as a massive drill smacked her to the ground. Sunset looked up to see a pair of monsters; to her left a massive bug with drills for hands, the other a slimmer beast with meat hooks and one glass eye - “I guess you forgot about Lorraine and Sierra. It’s sad to say that they have lost their minds too soon. You are alone, Sunset. No friend will come to you.”

Sunset tries to get up, but the two beasts kept her on her knees. “No, I still have a friend here.”

Roma raised her brow and walked over to Cogsworth. “Can you prove that you're his friend?”

“I am a much better friend who would never make you into a monster!” Sunset watched as the mechanic slowly lifted his head.

Roma leaned down so her lips could be at his ear. “I gave you strength, I gave you purpose.”

“We gave you friendship,” - Sunset lifted her arm - “we stuck by you and respected you when no one else did.”

“I gave you your legs back.” - Roma hissed before stepping towards the leader of our heroes. Pinned down by Lorraine and Sierra, Sunset watched as Roma clasped her hands together. As she drew them apart, a large fireball became larger and larger the further apart her hands were. - “Now, as Lorraine mentioned all those years ago, ‘Say hi to Night Dancer for me.’”

Sunset sneered as Roma raised here blazing ball. Ready to accept her fate, Sunset closed her eyes and waited for the dark magic to take her. Then her ears picked up something peculiar; machines, pistons thrusting up and down, little droids coming back to life as the light turned on. Roma, Sierra, and Lorraine looked back, seeing Cogsworth in full body armor.

Cogsworth opened his real eyes, severed the tethers with his broken blade and pulled the amulet free from his chest. He took a look at the cursed relic.

“You gave me nothing!” Cogsworth freed his other arm, changing it to a gun, and aimed it at the amulet. Outside the room, Twilight heard a loud scream followed by a loud blast. She rushed into the room, seeing Cogsworth collapse on the bed, the amulet shattered to pieces, and Sunset’s magical form ebbing away. Twilight lifted up her red and yellow friend.

“Sunset? Sunset!” Twilight shook her a bit before turning to Cogsworth, feeling a faint pulse on his fingers. She turned to see Sunset staggering out of the room. Twilight ran out, looking to her right and found Sunset leaning on the wall, her head above a trash can. “Sunset, are you okay?”

Sunset remained silent for a while, dry heaving before she turned to her friend. “Twilight, you know how I mentioned someone put on a crown once?”

“Yes…?” Answered Twilight as the memory of her temporarily demonized moment came to her.

Sunset lifted her head, “We made a monster…”

Outside the hospital, smoke burst out of the air ducts. As it traveled in the air, past the flocks of geese, and into the blue sky, the smoke split into three. The black essence spun and twirled, echoing the city with a loud cackle. Cogsworth wasn’t the only one freed today.

Code of Harmony

View Online

The following evening, in the Tamer Residence of Great Valley Drive, among many books scattered across a room, one journal sat in the light of a desk lamp. Sunset Shimmer opens the book to the most recent unwritten page. She aimed the ink pen at the upper left corner.

Dear Princess Twilight,
It’s been a long while since you have written back to me. If you ever get this message, know that we have done everything we could very well without you. But each day, the battle goes on and on. And I feel like we are fighting amongst ourselves. Is it just our human nature to fight? Or is there something deeper in your world that we haven’t quite grasped yet?
An old enemy of ours has returned, and I worry that her knowledge of Equestria will tip the balance on their hands. Right now, I am taking the necessary precautions, if I can manage the stress between classes and fighting. One way or another, this will end soon.
Your Friend,
Sunset Shimmer...

In a forested region far away, a few wild rabbits browsed for the most tender shoots. All except one, who stood at the top of a fallen branch. It stood erect, as it turned its satellite-like ears to a stick being crushed. the other rabbits turned to the sound as well and bounded away. The sentry jumped down and prepared for a leap when a metallic paw caught it’s fluffy tail between the claws.

The small animal squirmed as it was lifted off the ground. As much as the duty of a sentry is for the safety of the warren, the rabbit couldn’t help but cry for help as it was drawn to a steel beak. The mouth opened wide, adding an orange tinge to the rabbit’s brown fur as the breath became hotter and brighter. So concentrated was the beast that it didn’t notice the Changeling steal its prey.

For the past few days, Chrysalis, Sombra, Grogar, Heka, their Predacon associates, and their Changeling army kept to the isolated regions of Colorado. Their base of operations sacked, they can’t produce more Changeling clones nor have the means to rebuild the technology akin to what they had. While food is trivial to Sombra and Heka, the others struggled to maintain a healthy diet. Every catch of available meat was stolen and brought to Chrysalis. Grogar and a few Preds such as Darksteel and even the logical Skystalker fought like dogs. Rep, thanks to his camouflage abilities, managed to steal a few scraps between fights.The Ursagryph, frustrated with his kill stolen, looked to a flock of geese. He opened his mouth and aimed his dragon fire when an obsidian dome caged him. The beast spun around as smoke seeped from the grass, revealing to him a pair of green and red eyes.

“Us or you?” Sombra growled. Darksteel squinted, defeated by the more powerful mutate. Sombra destroyed the dome as the wind carried his corporeal self.

In the trees, a gray squirrel watched the camp of misfits. With a twitch of a tail, the arboreal rodent scurried across the branch, picking up speed before it made it’s grand leap to another tree branch. Or it would have when a violet and black blur snatched it in midair. Blackarachnia ended the squirrel’s life as she swallowed it whole. As she did, she was pushed forward by Porcina.

“That was supposed to be mine!” She complained; the ability to make duplicates doesn’t add well when catching small prey.

The insect girl turned around, “Well would you want to be served well done?” Blackarachnia chirped. As she saw Porcina show her smaller tusks, the winged being echoed the forest with her buzzing.

“Enough!” The Predacons turned to the enraged Chrysalis “It was your incompetence that cost our home!”

Hearing that at earshot, Caterina pounced at the taller mutate.

“And who's idea was it to make us into circus animals!? Where's our cure!?” Her answer merely a glare from the Queen, the feline raised her paw. When she unsheathed her claws, she felt something grab her wrist. She turned to see Skystalker being the one responsible for holding her wrist.

“Caterina, with our facilities compromised and the constant need to move, the chance of a retromutagen is currently out of the question.”

“But not out of your grasp.”

The entire band of criminal misfits looked back. Before them stood three monstrous beings that weren't their origin. To their right was a brown and blue beast with hooks for her hands and feet, spikes on her belly, three large dorsal fins on her back, and a glass cap over her one eye. To their left was a larger, armored insect with wing covers, and drills in place of her massive forearms. Her face isn't even remotely human, just a set of eyes, venomous fangs, and a massive horn like a rhinoceros beetle.

“And who might you be?” Chrysalis asked the stranger at the center, a blue, bat-like creature with dry blue eyes in deep black eye sockets.

“Roma Candle.” The demon walks down the hill, eying each adult and youthful mutate. All accounted for except one, she leans by a tree overlooking the city. “Not that it matters. But I know of a princess who can make your wishes come true. All I want is to be your leader.”

Darksteel and Skystalker looked at each other before the former asks, “And what makes you boss?”

Spreading her wings, Roma spun around, placing her hands on her forehead and blinked, revealing a pair of swirls in place of her eyes. Several swirling rings hovered over their heads, but the beasts didn't succumb to mind control, rather annoyed instead. Roma stopped the enchantment, blinking to find Sombra, Chrysalis and Grogar approaching her. The first raised his arm, ready to backhand her when Sierra and Lorraine came to their master's side, pointing their melee weapons at Grogar and Chrysalis respectively. Roma clasped her hands together, generating a fireball as she spread them apart.

“You have the mind of a killer.” Sombra purred as he lowered his arm “What can you possibly offer us?”

Roma raised the fireball and tossed it at an old tree. The crystalline man narrowed his eyes at the sight of the fire spreading to another tree. The demon, having their attention, curled her horrid lips back.

“A winning edge.”

Inside Canterlot High, classes of all years came to their lockers, grabbed their books and ran back to their studies. This is one of those difficult times in school: midterms. For lower class men, it's not that much to worry aside from making or breaking a grade. For the Seniors especially, though, passing the tests is a secure way to graduate with flying colors. Granted those that have vouched to do a “Senior Project,” even such projects must periodically be shown progress to the faculty to avoid any suspicious brows.

Rainbow Dash, always on the lower spectrum of her academic career aside from athletics, grabbed two books each from her most hated (and failing) courses and began her walk towards the library. She held the books close to her body, hoping no one would see her weakness.

“Hi, Dashie!” Pinkie Pie popped from the air vent. Seeing Rainbow yelp, the party planner hung upside down as she spied the textbooks. “Oooo, chemistry and trig’, nice subjects to study. Twilight gonna-?”

“Shhh!!” Rainbow pulled Pinkie down and pulled her to an isolated corner of Canterlot High. “Not in earshot, Pinks.”

Pinkie Pie zipped her lip before joining Rainbow Dash on her journey to the library. Compared to Rainbow's current attitude, Pinkie Pie was still jovial about the midterms. Job or no job, the pink wonder managed to study well in advance. They arrive at the library and open up the doors.

“Hey, Twilight! Rainbow's-!” Pinkie Pie was shushed again, this time by other occupants using the library as a study hall. She saw Rainbow give her a glare before she continued into the hall of books. As the athlete walked around the occupied tables and stepped over study groups, Pinkie Pie would call out Twilight's name as she popped her head between bookshelves.

“Girls,” - Ms. Cheerilee stopped the two from disturbing the study groups - “Twilight isn't here. Perhaps another time would be-”

“Thank you!” Pinkie Pie shouted before leading Rainbow Dash out of the library. The library mistress rolled her eyes before continuing her work on book sorting.

In the meantime, Twilight herself was in the laboratory. For months she has tried to reconstruct her spectrometer, even though they haven't needed it. In the Friendship Games, it worked well… too well, as it sucked up magic and worse. Hypothetically so, if she could implement the specs from the Galgameth bio suit, she can provide a more “user-friendly” piece of equipment. With one little microchip in place, Twilight affixed it in place with silver solder, sealed the device cover over the miniature motherboards.

“Hi, Twilight!”

“Gah!” Twilight's reaction to Pinkie's greeting sent the new spectrometer flying across the room. If it hits the wall or the floor, all those months of work will be wasted.

“Got it!” Rainbow clutched the spectrometer as a football player would. She walked over and gave it to the scientist.

“Hey…” Pinkie Pie cooed “you remade that device that sucked up our magic, opened dangerous portals, and made you into a she-demon?”

Hearing the last part gave Twilight a guilty feeling. The first device, and her curious knowledge about magic did get her into much trouble. It's with the added threat that Principal Cinch would not send her application to Everton University that she gave in. A few nights since she relived the nightmare in her sleep, but several sessions with Zecora has brought her confidence up.

“But this time” Twilight is handed the device and presses the button, allowing it a violet glow “it will suck out magic only at will.” She wrapped the pendant around her neck, holding it parallel to the ground as each section of the lid lit up before blinking at it's two thirty.

Parking the car just a few steps away from Sweet Apple Acres, Cosgrove paced around the dirt road. The fight he had with Cogsworth still filled his mind with doubt. On one hand, He still needed to thank Apple Bloom for saving his skin. But Cogsworth’s words and the fact that the Crusader had risked death doing so placed a fine line along that apology. He began thinking long and hard: Better to come over and get yelled at, or get yelled at for not being generous?

“Just go over, say ‘thanks’, then leave.” Cosgrove began his walk into the farmland. After what happened the past few days, his body became more relaxed as he could only hear the wind rustling the trees and the birds chirping. It didn’t take long for the red house to appear. He took a deep breath through his nostrils, tubing his mouth to release the hot air. He continued to the house and raised his foot above the first step.

“She ain’t here.” Cosgrove placed his foot back on the ground and turned to find Applejack leaning on the porch beam, holding a math book on one arm and a partially eaten apple on the other.

“Oh,” - Cosgrove scratched his arm - “is she serving detention?”

“Nope” - Applejack took another bite of her apple - “She went to the hospital to visit your brother.”

Cosgrove raised an eyebrow before placing his fingers on his head. “So, Apple Bloom isn’t grounded then?”

“She is…” - Applejack’s peripheral vision saw the Maximal’s further confusion before closing the book - “Look, I was just getting fed up with Sunset losing it whenever we are at our worst. Even you feel that way, right?”

Cosgrove looked away, “Sunset is always a bit short fused whenever the stress is on her.”

He began to recall quite a few moments when Sunset acted just like that, largely from the Battle of the Bands to the Friendship Games. Applejack closed the book and walked towards him, adding a small bit of worry into Cosgrove’s mind. If anything, he should deserve a punch that would shatter his teeth. He curled back a little.

“I’ll just-” Before he could even turn around, Applejack grabbed his left arm.

“I’m not mad if that’s what you’re thinking.” Applejack released his arm.

“Okay…” - Cosgrove huffed, breathing slowly to ease his worry - “Thanks.”

As she watched Cosgrove make his leave, AJ fiddled her fingers. “Cosgrove…”

Hearing his name, the Maximal turned around. “Yes?”

A long pause between the two, Applejack pinched the edge of her hat and tilted it slightly.

“Much obliged.” Seeing him draw a small smirk before he continued his walk, Applejack opened her textbook and continued to study. Though there is still one large question running in her mind she has yet to ask.

Back at the hospital, Dapplewood had just finished a reflex test courtesy of Doctor Horse. When the doctor turned around to record his results, the boy curled his leg back into the hospital blanket. But even the blanket wasn’t enough to protect the exposed limb to the hospital's frigid air conditioning in the warming Centennial State.

“Okay, Mr. Dapplewood,” - Doctor Horse shined a light on the boy’s eye, the pupil shrinking in response - “follow the light.”

As the doctor moved the light in all possible directions, so followed the grey-violet eyeball. He placed the flashlight down and wrote the results on the file. He takes out a wooden tongue depressor.

“Say ‘ah’.” - Dapplewood, holding his frustration, opened his mouth as wide as he could to allow the doctor to place the stick on his tongue. He peeked inside, looking for any anomalies in the recovering child before recording his investigation - “Tonsils are in good health, good timing for your visitor.”

Dapplewood cocked his head at the mentioning of “visitor,” for the last visitor he had he got called early in advance. The doctor opened the door, leaving it open as he walked outside. Replacing him was Apple Bloom, holding a small, blue, leathery lunchbox as she walked towards the bed.

“Hey there, buddy.” - She greeted, placing the storage item on the boy’s lap - “How are you feeling?”

Dapplewood responded by moving his shoulders a little, wincing as he extended his elbows and raised his knees. He then blinked, showing the Crusader his feral eyes before blinking again.

“Well,” - Apple Bloom opened the lunchbox, revealing to him a mishmash of crushed food consisting of spinach, kale, bacon, shredded carrots and apples covered in ranch dressing. The “apple” parts of the salad had no bits of husk, but in a hospital with very little patients now, it was good reason not to show the husk - “this should help you get back your strength.”

Taking a few sniffles of the sweetened coleslaw, Dapplewood held the plastic fork, lifting up part of the food, and started chewing before sending it down his healing throat. As he repeated the process, Apple Bloom couldn’t help but notice the needle to the IV unit was moved a smidge to her right, leaving a small bruise from where it was.

“Has anyone else visited you?” Apple Bloom asked, stopping the small boy eating his fill.

Though she, as can many of his friends and relatives, can understand his sign language, Dapplewood’s aching joints prevented him from forming large sentences with the practice. Instead, he reached out for a small dry erase board, red marker, and eraser. A rather clumsy way of writing, the boy carefully etched out his answer with what little space he could. He then spun the board around.

Sunset did visit me two days ago. We “talked” a little bit here and there. She went outside for a while, talked to a nurse, then came back in and removed the needle and took a sample of blood.

Apple Bloom raised her brow, “Why would she need a bit of your blood?”

Dapplewood faced the whiteboard to him, erasing the old words in a jiffy. Repeating the careful marking process, he flipped the board to her again.

I don’t know. But she did sound a little mad when she talked.

He flipped the board, erased, and wrote a new set of words that he promptly displayed to her.

Did something bad happen while I was unconscious?

Dapplewood watched Apple Bloom’s bow droop down like they were an extra pair of ears. He flipped white part of the board back to him, holding it against his chest.

“Why can’t things just be back to the way they were?” - Apple Bloom looked out the window, seeing the tranquility of her hometown, imagining what else would happen.

Dapplewood tapped a corner of the board on his lips. As he watched the look out the window, the boy thought long and hard. He popped the cap off the front end of the marker, catching her attention again as he purposefully stroked each letter with a loud squeak. He then flipped the board over.

There’s something else, isn’t it? Why else would you risk your life?

Looking at the board for a long while, Apple Bloom reached out and gave the boy a hug. At first a little skeptical as the purpose of this hug, Dapplwood’s eyes widened as the Crusader left the embrace. He looked up at her, keeping his expression of awe as Apple Bloom gave a small smile and walked towards the door. She stops and turned around.

“Take care now, okay?” She asked before walking out the door. As the Crusader walked, Dapplewood stared at the horizon. His adolescent mind having one of its many blanks, he pursed his lips a little before turning to his food. He stuffed his cheeks halfway, chewing it while he figuratively watched Apple Bloom leave the hospital.

At one of the last places she would want to visit, Sunset was hard at work. With three of her share of Zap Apples, the chemical compounds from Ms. Moynihan’s Chiller, a sample of Dapplewood’s blood, and a working centrifuge, she was on a roll with her experiment. She carved out a piece of Zap Apple, ground it to a pulp with a mortar and pestle, and placed it in a sample tube. Adding in a small of Chiller formula, she placed the tube in the centrifuge as she had with the previous five. Pressing a button, the machine spun around like a blender. When she lifted her finger off the button, the machine stopped to show the test tubes as an ice blue slushy. She took out the one labeled “test only” and looked at it.

“All right! You made the formula!” Sunset almost spilled the sample, turning around to find a flesh colored Senior Student with yellow eyes and hair of two shades of navy blue that nestled her goggles. This was Indigo Zap, one of the best athletes in Crystal Prep. Rivaled by Lightning Dust in the same department, it was Zap’s higher academic skill that sealed her place among the six Shadowbolts for the other two games.

“It’s too soon to know for certain.” - Sunset placed the tube in a holder - “There are many trials and errors before one successful tube will show.”

“And when there is” - Sunset turned to another student, a fuchsia-skinned individual with lime green/lemon yellow hair named Lemon Zest. Like Indigo Zap, she also had yellow eyes, but instead of goggles, she had red-violet wireless headphones which she lifted and placed them on Sunset’s head - “here is a victory tune.”

Lemon Zest increased the volume of her music player. So loud that that is can be heard outside, Sunset groaned as she took the earphones off. Slightly off balance from the loud tune, she resumed her work. Lemon picked up the headphones and put them back on her head. Joining her and Indigo were Sunny Flare, Sour Sweet, and Sugar Coat. The first crossed her arms.

“What’s up with her?” Sunny Flare turned to Sugar Coat, who fiddled her glasses.

“Well, she’s trying to block out how five of her closest friends have become wild things, one of them always getting injured and another in the hospital after fighting an armored individual who happens to be one of our sophomores after getting into a terrible camping accident.”

That remark, done completely without taking a breath, had Sunset turn around looking peeved.

“Were you parents wise to give you a name like that?” Sunset raised an eyebrow as she let out an “hmm?” Not getting her answer, Sunset returned to her work.

“Don’t blame her, really” - Sour Sweet said in her “sweet” tone before she crossed her arms and growled - “she was raised by wolves.” Sour Sweet regretted the complement as Sugar Coat returned a glare.

Squirting a drop of blood on the specimen slide, Sunset positioned it under the microscope, adjusting the lens to get a clear visual of the contaminated blood cells. With a cleaner dropper, she added the mixture to the blood. Sunset looked through the scope, watching the ice compounds float with the mashed fruit. On a microscopic level, the plant cells from the Zap Apple are also rainbow colored and true to their name, gave out a small jolt. Enough to stimulate coagulation, but never enough to hurt a human, the fruit mush caused the infected blood vessels to be freed of their mutagen bonds. Before the ooze could reattach, the ice particles fought back, crystallizing them. When adding a droplet of water, the crystal are flushed out.

“Eureka!” - Sunset shouted, holding up the sample of her newfound retromutagen.

“How so?” - Sugar Coat fondled with one of the samples - “They’ll need a lot more if they're going to bathe in it.”

“They don’t rub it on themselves,” - Sunset snatched the sample away - “they drink it. In time, the crystallized mutagen will flush out of their blood after they use the restroom.” Sunset's phone buzzed in her pocket, prompting her to pick it up. “Yes?”

Sunset returned to the HUB, watching the device continue to beep, this time pointing northwest. Likewise, the radar displayed three massive energy signatures moving closer and closer to the center.

“Why would they want to come here?” asked Twilight, watching Sunset place each vial in a package slip.

“Roma knows the portal better than Sombra and Chrysalis.” - After sealing the last slip, she turned around - “More likely as well to try to kill you.”

Twilight squinted before she spun on her chair, “Kill me?”

“She has yet to realize that you are not the Princess.” Sunset activated her magic “I need you to return to your home.”

“Sunset, I don't-” Twilight watched Sunset approach her.

“Open up a channel to everyone.” - Twilight dialed up everyone's number, showing Sunset's caller ID photo - “Everyone, I have something to tell you. Roma Candle, Lorraine, and Sierra are alive. Those who have helped out on the Fall Formal two years ago recall on her ambition to take over Earth and Equestria. It's with this fight that snowballed us into this conflict, and I will try to rectify it on my own.” - The Rainbooms, Crusaders, and Maximals responded with a loud “What!?” - “Cosgrove, Chelsey, Zipper, Diver, Dapplewood, later today you will each receive a package containing a vial of retromutagen. Drink it, and you will return to being fully human. If I don't make it back, just know that it has been a pleasure being with all of you.”

“Woah, woah, Sunset hold-!” Rainbow Dash was cut off before she was finished. She tried to call her again but got an “unavailable” message.

Cosgrove, having rejoined with his Maximal cohorts, held the vial of retromutagen in one hand, studying its glow.

“I don't understand,” Diver complained as she paced around the hallway “why does Sunset want to go it alone? Wasn't that one of our rules?”

“Yeah, it is.” Answered Chelsey “Doesn't she trust us?”

Zipper also studied his vial as tried to come up with a good answer. “Atleastshewaskindenoughtogiveusacure. ButI'mnotsureifweshould.”

“She would want us to be happy...” Cosgrove crosses his arms, showing his frustration.

“But getting herself killed will show that she’d care.” Tex rebuked “What if you five are weaker without a dino-mode?”

Tex’s question gave them something to think about. So far in the past few months, the fights have been beast-against-beast. And now with three old enemies, who they thought were dead after so long, perhaps it isn't wise to drink the formula. The five looked at their vials.

“If the past is anything,” Tremor walked into the room “is that war changes us. You are no longer children, but adults, men and women alike. The choice is up to you.”

Cosgrove looked at his tube of retromutagen before looking at each of his friends. Chelsey was the first to put the tube in her pocket, followed by Zipper, then Diver. He turns to Dapplewood, who places his tube on the tray. The leader looked at his tube, eyed away for a moment, then snuggled it in his pocket.

Outside, the rest of the Rainbooms Ponied Up and began their long trek towards the destination Sunset is heading off to.

“I can't believe Sunset would leave us like that!” Rarity chided

“Oh… And I didn't make a 'going to battle’ cake.” Pinkie Pie whined as well, riding shotgun with Applejack.

“You have a cake planned for anything, sugar cube.” Applejack looked forward, shaking her head a little “Oh boy, Sunset. You against fifteen of them.”

At the hospital, Tremor was filing for Dapplewood's clearance. His grandson and friends sat in the lobby, still a bit flustered that Sunset has gone on her own. Dapplewood himself was in among the last places he would want to be; in the resting bed of his failed assassin. He stepped close enough to see that the amulet is gone. Somehow, the armor was completely retracted, revealing a red and black, porous, jumpsuit. What remained of the armor was a chest piece wrapping around Cogsworth, with a black stripe running down his back. Dapplewood took out his vial; if zap apples healed their most serious wounds, then this wouldn't be a problem, but since Cogsworth hasn't been contaminated with mutagen, the Chiller formula in the retromutagen may poison him a little. The boy gently opened the mechanic's mouth and poured the formula in, massaging his throat to allow the liquid to rush inside. He placed his damaged Maximal charm into Cogsworths hand. As he left the room, it became illuminated with a green glow, the gears clicking and hissing as the armor extended to his toes and fingers. Cogsworth’s hand twitched, wrapping around the charm.

The warming spring sun and the melting river ice contributed to a large fog that covered much of the area outside the plaza. Even the mighty Rockies vanished completely. In such an element, evil is on the march as their glowing eyes penetrated the depths. But the fog can be used to an advantage. After hearing a soft ringing, the battalion stopped to a shot fired and Changeling screaming in agony.

“Go, search!” Ordered Chrysalis. Three of her drones moved away from the group. A fatal mistake, for they have been shot down as well.

“Fan out!” Sombra ordered. While the Changelings and their masters kept still, Roma, Lorraine, Sierra and the Predacons moved away. With none of them having a biological radar for detecting magic, they were blind in fog. Whenever he got blasted, Darksteel pounced at the point of origin and found nothing.

“I know you're here, Sunset.” Roma walked around on her clawed feet “Come out, I would love to make up for lost time.”

Looking through the fog, the demonized human found a gray silhouette in the mist. With a snarl, she flapped her wings and chased after the shrouded figure. As she got closer, the figure illuminated a small, opal around a yellow-orange horn. Roma spun around, seeing the silhouette again before she pounced and missed. Infuriated, Roma charged up a fireball and flung it at another figure. Not a sound but the echo of the explosion.

“Where are you!?” She roared as she kept lobbing fireballs.

From afar, Sunset watched her former classmate descend into madness once again. Of all the people she has seen, Roma was the only one to have gone mad. Not Hydia, the Dazzlings, not even Twilight came close. The demon no doubt influenced Cogsworth while trapped in the amulet. But with a span of two years, things evolved. One such thing Sunset drew forward, aiming it at the she-demon.

Then a long, sticky tongue shot out of the fog and snatched the repaired spectrometer away. Sunset turned to see that Rep had stolen the device. He tsked thrice before putting it in his pocket. He then alerted his cohorts with a loud whistle. Sunset looked around, seeing the glowing eyes surrounding her.

“Grogar,” the massive mountain goat turned over to Chrysalis “take the Predacons to Canterlot High.”

Deep in his mind, the resurrected mutant felt a bit of joy in leading a new faction of his school's sports team. As he marched towards the city, the Changelings took a hold of Sunset, spinning her around to face the plaza. The closer they came, the beasts took pleasure in smashing windows, raiding food stores, anything to satiate their hunger for destruction as smoke billowed in town.

“Who is the real monster here?” Roma whispered into Sunset's ear. She stepped back, summoning Sierra in her place. The massive beetle aimed her drill at Sunset's back, slowly increasing revolutions per second as she inched closer.

“I'm sorry…” Sunset winced, ready to accept her fate. But to her surprise, the revolutions ceased.

“Why did you stop?!” Roma chided, but like everyone else, she too started listening to a sharp whistle, getting louder and louder as a winged silhouette appeared. That figure became none other than Rainbow Dash as she zoomed through the fog and slammed the bug so hard, she flew back a few feet.

“The monsters around here are still you guys!” Rainbow Dash answered as the rest of the cavalry arrived.

While Sombra, Roma, Lorraine and Sierra growled, Chrysalis merely chuckled and turned to her soldiers.

“Go, feed!!” With rapid speed, the Changelings flew forth, leaving a small bit of turbulence that got the Rainbooms all shaky. The six Rainbooms squared off against, five but strong enemies. Roma Candle bared her teeth at Sunset, Sierra slapped her drills twice before pointing them at Applejack, Lorraine shifted to a fighting stance at Fluttershy, Rarity and Sombra lit up their horns as Pinkie aimed a miniature party cannon, Rainbow Dash raised her fists at Chrysalis. Except for Fluttershy, they all rushed in screaming for the big fight.

Grogar and the Predacons walked through the lot next to Canterlot High as the Changelings began their assault. For the former principal, this was a means of revenge on Celestia for closing down his school. For Caterina and Porcina, getting a cure is all that matters. Skystalker is more fascinated in visiting the equine filled world. As their feet touched the asphalt, a mangled Changeling fell before them. They looked up to see Zipper soaring and screeching above them. He lands on the Wondercolt statue, issuing another screech as his Maximal and Crusader buddies lined up. Six Maximals and three Crusaders against Grogar and seven Predacons.

“So it comes to this, boy.” Grogar growls “Face to face, tooth to claw, yes. Have you anything to say?”

Cosgrove looked to his left, seeing Sweetie Belle, Chelsey, Dapplewood, and Scootaloo assuming a fighting stance. He then looked to his right, seeing Diver, Apple Bloom, Tex, and Zipper doing the same. He then looked forward at the menacing goat.

“Well I say… that's just Prime. Let's do this!” The Maximal lead the charge. Chelsey rushed at Skystalker, Tex to Darksteel, Diver to Squirk. Zipper and Blackarachnia ascended upward with claws stretched. Dapplewood lowered his head as he neared Rep. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo charged at Caterina, Porcina made another duplicate as she squealed at Apple Bloom, Cosgrove and Grogar roared as they collided with each other.

A good distance away, Twilight kept to the HUB, watching several magic signatures mix with one another on radar. Though not an experienced fighter, she can't just sit here while her friends risk themselves in battle. She looked at her reflection in the device and closed her eyes.

“Come on, Twilight.” She concentrated even harder “You can do this.”

It seemed evenly matched for a six to five battle. With her Pony Up amplifying her human strength, Applejack didn't need Rainbow's help as she delivered a few fast punches at Sierra. With her drills constantly spinning, a full on wrestling maneuver was out of the question for the farmer.

Pinkie Pie and Rarity constantly dodged the erupting and eroding crystals as Sombra slammed his fists on the ground. Rarity used her magic to lift underground boulders and threw them at the school teacher. Pinkie Pie used a more up close method; party cannons to the face, a banana peel, and her “final smash” as she calls it: speakers.

With Chrysalis being the more powerful of the three fliers present, Rainbow Dash kept to her speed as she delivered a hit and run punch. Enraged, Chrysalis changed her form to resemble that of the athlete. But even in a changed form, it's not the same recipe and was easily outdone.

Fluttershy had the worst of luck. She ran towards the forest, coming through trees and hiding behind rocks. But with her armament, Lorraine made swiss cheese out of the environment. As the bladed monster cornered the shy teenager, Fluttershy calmed herself down and bellowed in a rather scratchy voice. Harry, the “calmed grizzly,” rose out of the bushes and smacked the monster right through the eye. Fluttershy stood up, giving Lorraine a less “lethal” version of The Stare as the monster turned its damaged eye at her.

Sunset and Roma attacked and dodged with a series of quick attacks. Roma had the flight and size advantage, but not the smarts as Sunset had months of research ahead of her. The demon landed on the dirt, reeled back with a roar, charged forward, missing the fire-haired teen as she teleported the other way. Enraged, Roma charged up a fireball again. Sunset, ever the wiser, charged up a magic missile and fired it at the glowing sphere. Exploding at her face, Roma growled as she took flight again.

Back at Canterlot High, the battle is favoring our heroes at the moment. But if the Changelings reach the school, they will be overrun. Grogar kept Cosgrove’s snapping teeth at arm's length before slamming him to the wall.

“Admit defeat, boy!” Grogar pinched Cosgrove's throat, hearing him gag as his lungs began to starve. The Maximal resorted to flailing his elephant-like feet at the rams chest, but could only brush on the blue fur. Grogar aimed a fist at the repto-mammal's head before howling in pain as he felt two concussive blasts on his back.

The combatants looked up, seeing a dark object flying around the courtyard. It soared vertically before dropping on the ground with a large slam. It was Cogsworth, his armor free of dents and his weapons restored. One small, but nonetheless large difference, was the Predacon insignia; it resembled a wasp head rather than a demonic ram.

“You!” Grogar released his grip on Cosgrove and turned towards the more armored boy “You wish to die as well?!”

Cogsworth kept to himself, watching Grogar bare his teeth before charging. When he got close, the mechanic held the goat by the horns, pushing him back a few feet as Cogsworth wrestled the beast. The opportunity rising, Cosgrove rushed forward and held Grogar by the throat. Pulling the cork with his teeth, he forces feed the retromutagen down the goat's throat.

Grogar pushed the two aside before standing still. He felt his heart beating slower and slower. He looked at his cloven hand, watching it return to its original five digit hand when the skin shrink wrapped. His fur and horns began to recede. In time, he returned to being human. The mutagen flushed out of his body signaled his bodily functions to stop. For he was once dead flesh, and dead flesh he shall be as he collapses on the floor.

The Maximals, Crusaders, and remaining Predacons stopped their fighting, waiting for the next move. The two boys that fought each other some time ago looked at each other. On one hand, Cogsworth did provide a distraction long enough for Cosgrove to administer the retromutagen to Grogar. But on another hand, Cogsworth was dangerous enough to almost kill his brother with valley fever. Then again, it was their fault for snowballing Cogsworth into this mess.

“Are we…?” Cosgrove asked, watching Cogsworth turn his head at Apple Bloom. The mechanic approached Apple Bloom. He stood before her, watching the Crusader's ears drew back, still having her determined expression despite no longer having the Twittermite vacuum. He raised a finger at her.

“The next time you, Sweetie Belle, or Scootaloo get any ideas for any reason, think next time.”

Apple Bloom slowly nodded as she, and everyone else turned to the Changelings buzzing towards the school. The Predacons are still unsure of what to do when Cogsworth raised a hand.

“Everyone, we must defend the portal at all costs!” Cogsworth drew out a plasma cannon and aimed it at the swarm.

“What?” Squirk shook his head confusingly - “We're- after all we-!?”

“It sounds illogical, yes.” - Skystalker answers - “But is mindless fighting isn't any better?”

Now with the Predacons at their side, Cosgrove gathered his posse. “Sunset had Twilight close off the Ground Bridge. Can you hold them off till then?”

“We'll try.” Retracting one plasma cannon, the Predacon and the Maximal clasped hands, honoring themselves before parting.

“Wait!” - Rep calls out as he took out the spectrometer - “I don't know what your friend was doing with it, but it may be important.”

Tex took the device and began to run with his cohorts. The Changelings up front began to dive towards the Maximals and Crusaders.

“Darksteel. Skystalker.” Cogsworth charged up his weapons. “Provide cover fire!”

The armored boy, the dragon, and the Ursagryph unleashed their attack, parting the swarm in two as several fell screaming as they were burned alive. Blackarachnia joined Skystalker and Darksteel, ascending high enough to dive bomb into the swarm. The flightless individuals kept to the statue, picking off each Changeling that landed. Porcina provided as many duplicates as she could to even the numbers.

Back to the Rainbooms, Sombra and Chrysalis began to tire. The second of the two was tossed by Rainbow Dash to the dirt. Raising her head up, she found her swarm slowly being charbroiled. Lorraine was just smacked outside the forest, joining with her Fluttershy and Harry. The bear cooed as he was scratched behind the ears before he was sent away. With her remaining strength, Applejack lifted Sierra off the ground and tossed her aside.

Chrysalis and Sombra prepared to recover when Diver and Chelsey popped out of the bushes and caught them. Before he could become smoke, Sombra was administered with retromutagen, causing him to shed his horn and embedded crystals. He still kept his armor as he collapsed on the floor. Chrysalis lost her wings, horn, and her skin became supple. With her mutation lost to the formula, the drones halted and hovered to the ground.

Now it was just like the fight at Canterlot High; Roma, Lorraine, and Sierra watched as the Rainbooms, Maximals, and now the Crusaders surrounded them.

“It's over, Roma!” Sunset called out as her posse prepared for the last stretch.

“Yes, dearest.” Rarity added with a flick of her delicate hand “Do kindly surrender and stop being a beast.”

Hearing that in her ear, Roma tensed her face as she raised her hands.

“I am not a monster!” Roma placed her hands on her head, activating her mind control. Far away, the Changeling army stood erect and marched slowly at the portal.

“At least they break very easy.” Cogsworth drew his blade and shield and charged at the bugs.

The fight is a bit different than when it was at Canterlot. Dapplewood and Diver replaced Cosgrove and Zipper, delivering faster hit and run attacks to tire out Lorraine. Sweetie Belle followed Rarity's example and shot out a more concentrated stream of magic. With each blast from her party cannon, Pinkie Pie slowly tied the monster down with streamers.

Chelsey and Tex joined Applejack as they fought Sierra. Three strong people against the massive beetle proved quite a handful as Sierra was pushed towards Lorraine. The bug did smack Tex away, sending the pendant flying. Scootaloo, still having a desire to fly, flapped her wings rapidly, ascending two feet in the air. She picked up Apple Bloom and hovered to ramming speed. The youngest farmer lifted up her boots, shouting a "kaia" upon colliding with the exoskeleton. The bug toppled over, squirming to get up.

Roma wasn't going to give up easily, but with Sweetie Belle and Pinkie Pie holding down her cohorts down with magic and confetti, it was fourteen against one. Applejack, Chelsey, and Tex charged forth at the demon, who sent them flying when she lobbed a fireball in front of their feet. Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo circled around her, kicking up a dust cloud to confused Roma. In the dust, Zipper flew forward and clutched Roma by the hair, dragging her several feet towards the pile before the demon slashed the pterosaurs feet.

Roma ascended into the air, but not before Diver rushed in and sank her teeth into the demon’s leg. With the added weight, Roma hovered clumsily over the Rainbooms as she thrashed her leg. Soon the hog-like teeth of the mutate Kaprosuchus gave, sending her falling to the ground with a loud thud. Before she could recover, Roma slammed her feet hard on Diver’s neck and throat.

Apple Bloom was quick to whistle to Dapplewood, getting him to come her. The boy made himself completely horizontal, allowing the Crusader to pick him up, spin around and throw him. The young Maximal’s head collided with Roma’s, staggering her a few feet back. She wrapped her hands around Dapplewood’s neck and began choking him. The fortune that his brother was there to pull Roma away. With one last lob, the demon was added to the predator trap. She struggled to get free, but the confetti clasped her wings shut.

“Now we need the spectrometer!” Said Sunset.

“Way ahead of-” When he reached his pocket, Tex’ eyes widened as he pulled each pocket.
“Where is it?!”

They looked around wildly before Scootaloo found it on the ground several meters behind them. She ran for the device the same time Roma charged up a fireball. Applejack was quick to notice and rushed to knock her out, but she was too late. The projectile volleyed over Scootaloo and collided with the spectrometer in a cloud of dust.

“No!” Sunset fell to her knees, hearing Roma’s laugh as the dust cleared. But the device remained intact, surrounded by a violet aura. Everyone looked forward, some, especially Pinkie Pie and Rarity, had their mouths agape.

It was Twilight, their Twilight, using magic for the first time. Like them, she was just as surprised as they are as she held her hand and her horn glowed. Whether she was winging it or not, Twilight flung the device over to the pile of demons. The impact flipped the lid open.

“Everyone, get clear of its blast radius!” Twilight shouted, prompting our heroes to scatter. At first as particles, the pendant generated a small, compact ball as it began the draining process. Lorraine and Sierra roared as the pendant began to peak. Roma tried to leave, but the drain made her exhausted and collapsed when a bright light shined to her. Over at Canterlot High, the Changelings stopped their advance. To Porcinas amusement, she pushed one like it was a tinker toy.

When the light ebbed, the charm closed on its own. The heroes at the other front emerged from their hiding spots. What was left of the three beasts from so long ago where a comatose Lorraine and Sierra, and a struggling Roma Candle. The last looked up, seeing Sunset approach her.

“Why…?” Roma hissed “Why couldn't I beat you?”

Sunset looked around, watching her friends give her looks of frustration, awe, and amusement, before looking back at the restored human.

“You remained in an island,” - Sunset raised her arms, emphasizing the changes that happened over two years. - “we evolved.”

Applejack took out her lasso and began to hogtie the powerless girls one by one. Everyone else turned to Twilight, admiring her new form.

“So, Twilight. How does it feel to Pony Up?” Asked Rarity.

“While I do admire the increase in power,” Twilight rubbed her horn “I’m a bit scared that I can’t turn it off.”

“It’s like relaxing a muscle.” Said Chelsey, demonstrating for the former Crystal Prep Student as her claws retracted and the veil of fur around her body receded. Twilight relaxed, drawing back her horn and ponytail.

“Though that also means that we’ll be walking the entire way home, huh?” Asked Diver, getting everyone’s attention, as the Rainbooms have forgotten to use vehicles in their rush to save Sunset.

“A pleasure stroll doesn’t sound that bad” - Cosgrove looks at the unconscious Chrysalis and Sombra - “now that it’s all over.”

Sunset looked at the general direction to Canterlot High. “Not yet.”

Indeed, even with them counted as “under influence,” the Predacons are still criminals in general. In the Estes Park Municipal Council, what remained of the population sat in the public gallery, the prisoners in the dock, with twelve witnesses Celestia, Luna, Cadance, Clamp Jaw, Mr. Belle, Mr. Dash, Cranky Doodle, Big Mac, Cheerilee, Mr. Cake, Iron Will, and Mayor Mayor at the side. Shining Armor stood as he waited for the judge to arrive. He heard the door handle jiggle and turned to the others.

“All rise.” He ordered, getting everyone to stand.

Judge Frollo slowly ascended to his bench, coughed a little before turning to the Jury.

“Has the Jury come to a decision?” He asks.

“We have, Your Honor.” Celestia looked at the public and prisoners “We find the defendants guilty.”

Squirk, Rep, and Porcina turned pale at the sound of the decision. Cogsworth and Skystalker accepted this as they lowered their heads in defeat. For the Rainbooms, Maximals, and Crusaders, this was a heavy blow; all their hard work practically wasted.

“Cogsworth, Darksteel, Skystalker, Caterina, Porcina, Rep, Blackarachnia, and Squirk.” Judge Frollo beckoned for their attention “While we do acknowledge that what you have done was inexcusable. But with the provided evidence that you are under the influence, your punishment will be reduced. I sentence you to forty-eight hours of community service to repair the damaged buildings. Court adjourned.”

With a slam of the gavel, the prisoners were lead out of the courtroom first, followed by the public. Our heroes are still a bit frustrated as they neared the front door.

“I still can’t believe they would have to do community service.” Sweetie Belle huffed “I mean, it’s not their fault entirely that they destroyed much of the town.”

“That may be, Sweetie.” - Rarity interjected - “But that doesn’t change what they did, and they must be responsible for that.”

“But-”

“Sweetie Belle, she’s right.” Everyone turned to Cogsworth strolling in a wheelchair, for use of the armor is still considered bringing a gun to court - “There’s no excuse who did what, I’ll be fine.”

After given a small hug from each Rainboom, Crusader, and Maximal, Cogsworth is escorted by a security guard out the door. A moment of silence before Pinkie clapped her hands.

“Welp, those midterms aren’t going to study themselves!” Pinkie Pie began to bounce towards the door, hearing the agitated groans from her friends.

“I don’t think that wouldn’t be necessary.” Everyone turned around again, finding Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna walking towards them. “In honor of your great deeds, we will pardon you from the midterms.”

Rainbow Dash, knowing of her already borderline grades, hopped up in excitement.

“But,” - Luna points to the front door - “in exchange…”

Rainbow stopped her excitement; not having to train herself mentally for the exams in exchange for more physical labor. As Cogsworth said, everyone has to take responsibility for their own actions. And the Dazzlings can only do so much before they become irritated. They all nodded to each other, accepting the terms.

Forty Seven hours later

Sombra and Chrysalis remained in a penitentiary, Sierra and Lorraine sent to a psychiatric institute to recover, Roma Candle sent to prison. She bounced a ball against the wall, hearing her prison mates jeer at her, mocking on where are her powers now. It’s a prison, true, but one that has fresh air. She continued to play with the ball as a prison guard stopped at her cell.

“Miss Candle,” - the guard watched Roma not catch the ball this time - “you have a visitor.”

Shackled wrist and ankle, Roma was lead down the cell blocks and to a narrower room divided by desks and plastic. Each seat was taken by other prison mates as they conversated with their friends, siblings, parents, or loved ones. On the other side of Roma’s spot was Twilight Sparkle, but not the one on Earth. Fitting her royal duties and the seriousness of the matter, she wore a business suit instead of her usual blue button shirt, violet skirt, and heavy boots.

“It’s been a long time, Roma. Much has changed since I last came here. The town has been partially demolished, old friendships brought back, and a zoo cage full of Changelings. I too have had my ordeals as well, and I have taken up a student under my wing even after we fought to preserve the fabric of time. My point is, as I have told Sunset, even the worst of people, human or pony, could be changed. To err is the essence of change. So I ask: you can either change your ways or let time heal the wounds.”

After a long period of silence, Roma’s lips began to quiver.

“You think your little talks of friendship will suffice the fact that our city has been demolished?” - She lifts her eyes at the Princess of Friendship - “You still have a lot to learn about the human race. I used Cogsworth to tarnish Cosgrove’s white knight reputation. Sunset was on the verge of a breakdown.” - Roma slowly stood up - “We all point fingers at each other. And our leaders among the most stupid people who ever walked the earth. Whoever holds a great resource or innovation owns the world. And the bell cannot be unrung!!” Roma slaps the glass.

“Hands off the glass!!” Shouted a police guard as he signaled the guards to pick her up.

“They know you and your world! They’ll be hungry!! And they’ll be coming!!” As she was lifted off the chair, Roma made a “ding” sound repeatedly between breaths. Twilight remained silent as Roma’s screams echoed the rooms behind her.

One hour later

With the last few nails, the Rainbooms, Crusaders, Maximals and Predacons finished the repairs of a pawn shop. Scrapper, the manager of the construction crew that monitored their progress, took out a clipboard.

“Okay guys,” He took out a packet of pens and handed it to each Predacon “you sign this and I’ll send the last of your credit hours to the judge.” With each signature along the five blacks lines separated by a comma, the Predacons have completed their service to society. “It’s been a pleasure for you to help.”

Rainbow Dash sprouted her wings and circled the air, “All right! Now we don’t have to take midterms!”

Applejack turned to the Predacons, specifically Cogsworth. “So what will you do now, hon?”

Cogsworth kept to himself, prompting Pinkie Pie to massage his shoulders. “We do plan on going to Camp Everfree. Lots of fun things to do there.”

Cogsworth still remained silent.

“You’ve never been to the dinosaur world,” Diver mentions, imagining what form the mechanic would take. “we would love to see what your inner dinosaur looks like.”

Cogsworth moves the joystick on his wheelchair, spinning around and moving away. The other Predacons either waved goodbye or in Squirk's case pointing two of his tentacles to his eyes. As the group left the area, Rarity gently tugged on her hair.

“I don’t understand.”

“Because, Rarity, it’s his life.” Sunset turned around “We need harmony to survive, but harmony without free will isn’t harmony at all. Cogsworth showed us that.” Sunset took a deep breath before rubbing Dapplewoods hair. “Let’s go home.”

Pinwheel and Shock Drive were among the first refugees to return. When they carried their luggage into their house, the first thing they saw was a banner that read, “welcome home.” Next to a table filled with treats was Cogsworth, having sat there for the next few hours to reconcile with himself. The parents stood motionless, watching their son don the armor on his legs and stand up before them. Without hesitation and tears in their eyes, they dropped their luggage and embraced the child they had not seen for so long.

“Welcome home…” - Pinwheel choked - “Welcome home…”

Tartarus Penitentiary, Denver, Colorado.

Inside the warden's office, a video plays from a laptop computer. Twelve seconds of each video displaying a Rainboom would switch over to a Maximal for another twelve seconds, then switched over to a Crusader. The screen illuminated the back of the table as the person sitting tap his fingers on the armrest.

“Is this a live feed?” Asked Tirek.

“Was a live feed.” Answered Scorpan.

“Then I’ve seen enough.” - Tirek closed the laptop and leaned back on the chair - “Get me a list of their identities, all of them.”

“Zeb’s already working on it.” Scorpan lifted the miniature computer and walked out of the office.

When the door closed, Tirek placed his fingers together, tapping each one in rhythm.

Legend of Everfree (New Timeline) Part 1

View Online

With midterms out of the way, the next big thing to happen is one whole week of no school. For many, it’s the perfect time for students to kick back and relax at the cost of some of their remembered teachings. Some still have a job to work in, much to their dismay. For a select amount of Seniors, this was the opportunity to go on a camping trip. Like the Camp Friendship retreat in July, this was an offer for Canterlot students, but unlike it, only Seniors, and with very few spots available for the class, can participate. Most of them have packed up and entered the bus. As the bus left each pickup point, the class could hardly contain their excitement. Trixie, not so much; Snips and Snails couldn’t get out of the bus in time and so the magician was assigned to watch them.

The only person remaining is Twilight, who is also bringing Spike along. With the last of her things packed to the last diode, she slept like a rock as the night began to shine. As the dawn lit up the Centennial State, Twilight began to stir.

“No, no.” Twilight groaned, not even waking her companion on the chest in front of her bed. “It can’t be, it isn’t true.”

“Uhm, Twilight?” Fluttershy whispered behind the door.

Spike awoke to a series of knocks and trotted up the door. Twilight slowly awoke, rubbing the sleep out of her eyes.

“Twilight!” - Rainbow roared - “The bus for Camp Everfree leaves in ten minutes!!”

“No, no, no, no, no, no, no!” Twilight grabbed her glasses and rushed to her closet. Spike opened the door, letting in the other Rainbooms. “I can’t believe I overslept!”

“Me neither. That’s not like you.” Sunset added, watching the Techie grab her suitcase.

“Don’t you have super annoying alarm clock that goes ‘Agh! Agh! Agh! Agh!’” Pinkie Pie lifted the pillow, finding the alarm clock buzzing for four minutes straight.

“Let me just get changed.” Twilight went to her closet.

Rarity spotted a copy of Princess Twilight’s Fall Formal dress, recalling the nostalgia as she felt the custom sinews.

“We’re gonna be out in the woods.” Applejack huffed. “When is she gonna need that?”

“If we are going to the moon, I insist she packed an evening gown.” Rarity started waving her finger at the farmer. “One never knows, darling.”

As Twilight tried to make a fitting between shirts, she began to notice massive, violet wings sprouting behind her. She tensed as the owner of the wings ascended up the reflection. It was a familiar sight, one encountered just one October ago. Codenamed simply as…

“Midnight Sparkle!?” The group shouted in surprise. Two Twilight Sparkles of the same person, here?

“How is this possible?!” Twilight leered back, dropping her shirts. “Sunset defeated you at the Friendship Games!”

“You and your friends can never truly defeat me!” Midnight cackled as the true Twilight’s room pixelated and deleted like a virus. Even her friends weren’t spared before they got the chance to react. Twilight was left to float helplessly in space.

“You… You monster!” Twilight yelled into the digital world.

“Monster?” Midnight soared over to her kinder counterpart, easily towering her by a few inches alongside her large wingspan. “I am a part of you! I’ll always be there in the darkest shadows of your mind. I’ll be back, Twilight! And this time, I won’t stop until I have all the magic!”

Midnight transformed into a raven and phased herself into her counterpart. Twilight gasped in horror as the gauntlets returned to her arms and legs, wings jutting out the back, and the blue visor and horn lit again. As her skin became darker, Twilight curled into a ball.

“No! STOP!!!!”

“Twilight! Twilight!” Spike nudged his panicking friend as she stretched and contracted wildly like having a tummy ache. Dodging Twilight rolling onto her back, Spike hopped on her body and pawed her nose. “Twilight, wake up!”

Twilight shot awake, sending the puppy flying to her dirty clothes pile. Spike erupted out of the clothes, shook his body a little, then hopped towards his owner. He drew his ears back as he watched Twilight pant like made as she looked around.

Her little companion noticed a small amount of uncertainty within his mistress.

“You alright, Twilight?” Spike raised his left paw. “Aren’t you excited to go camping?”

Taking a nod from Cadance, Twilight placed her hand on her chest, took a deep breath, and exhaled with her folded arm outstretched before lying back on the headboard.

“It’s just that, so much has happened in this one year. We found that magic exists, the benefits it has…” - Twilight looked at her right hand, imagining the violet gauntlet of Midnight. - “and the atrocities it makes.”

Spike jumped on the bed and plopped on her lap. “Hey, be glad it’s all over. No more weird portals, Predacons, and relics to hunt. Just you, me and a truck full of our closest friends.”

With those comforting words reaching her ears, Twilight gave her pet a good scratching on his tummy. They look up to find Shining Armor at her door, leaning on the molding.

“The bus is here, Twily.” He said. Without a moment too soon, Shining watched his sister and dog jump up and rush out, the former turning back to give him a hug. Her parents waved to her as she exited the door and rushed to the bus. With the last person inside, the entire group of students cheered as Celestia and Luna sat down.

“Woo-hoo! Now it’s a party!” Shouted Rainbow Dash as the bus gears churned and hissed, picking up speed.

It soon reached the town, where a majority of remaining Canterlot High students waved goodbye as it zoomed by. In one corner, the Shadowbolts watched the bus of their rival school rush by. The bus gained speed upon reaching the interstate. Buildings gave way to grasslands, and grasslands gave way to forests. There are a few log cabins here and there, but other than that, it is just untapped wilderness. With the roads becoming more bumpy and curved, the bus slowed down, but otherwise maintained its course.

Inside the bus, the excitement quieted down. Lyra and Bon Bon talked to each other. Sandalwood took the time to meditate, soothing himself with sitar music. Flash, unable to use his guitar, let alone make himself uncomfortable, listened to his media player. Bulk Biceps lifted a sixty-pound dumbbell with one arm and held a lemon muffin with the other. Behind him, Snips and Snails squirmed around Trixie: what would take a few hours seemed like months to them.

“Are we there yet, Great and Powerful Trixie?” Said Snails as his belly rumbled.

“If you two don’t stop squishing Trixie, she will lose her patience.” Trixie’s warning got the two sitting upright again.

On the row of seats to the right, Twilight had a laptop open, displaying a live video feed. Her faithful companion barked and the others awed as a flying reptile soared across the blue screen. The previous weekend, Twilight, Applejack and Sunset constructed a recording device small enough to be strapped onto Dapplewood's back like a saddle when he, his brother and friends both Maximal and Crusader visited the Dinosaur World. Today marks as day one, and so far it has not disappointed the former Crystal Prep student. The camera turned towards the lush, dinosaur inhabited valley. There are patches of snow, but the digital thermometer did read sixty-six degrees. As the camera shook with each step of its carrier a small head atop a long neck craned into the camera’s view.

“Littlefoot mentioned that his father is bringing his whole herd into the valley.” With his head well behind his front line of sight, the teenaged sauropod stumbled at a small rock.

“A whole herd,” - Rainbow lifted herself up - “of dinosaurs coming to the valley?! Why did I choose to come here!?”

“Ya snooze, ya lose, Rainbow.” Applejack chuckled.

Sunset noticed Twilight, despite seeing living breathing dinosaurs as a community, still being silent as she had throughout much of the trip.

“Hey, are you okay?” She asked

Not wanting to tell of her recent nightmare, Twilight gave a small chuckle, “Heh, I’m fine.”

“We are gonna have so much fun!” Pinkie Pie chortled before Sunset could ask any more questions. “We’re going to roast marshmallows, and eat marshmallows, and sleep on marshmallow pillows!”

Rainbow Dash, knowing Pinkie Pie being Pinkie Pie, turned around. “Yeah, probably not gonna do that.”

“Maybe you’re not...” Pinkie Pie beheld before them a large bag of marshmallows then snuggled it like a teddy bear.

As much as she enjoyed the conversations in the back, Principal Celestia tried her best to drown out her boredom. She turned her eyes to window finding a rugged signpost that got her hopes up.

"Attention, students!" - Celestia called out to the back of the bus - "We’re almost there, but before we arrive, we’d just want to say how proud we are of you raising enough money to go on the class field trip!”

“When we were your age, we made some of our favorite memories in these woods,” Luna added, waving her arms at the landscape around them. “and we’re sure you will too.”

“Now who’s excited for Camp Everfree?" Cheered Celestia, rallying the entire company to cheer, making the driver cringe as the noise echoed in the bus. Twilight had this at first but returned to her current thoughts. Sure they needed a well-deserved break after fighting off the Predacons, but what if there was still another threat? Twilight closed the laptop and turned to her friends.

“Oh my gosh, oh my gosh!" Shouted Pinkie Pie to Twilight before pulling out a checklist “I thought of so many things we can do it’ll make my head explode!”

Taking a left turn to a dirt road, the bus slowed to a crawl as tree branches scraped against the yellow hull. Inside, passengers held on tight for the bus drove over some loose rocks.

“Hey!” - Pinkie Pie spoke with a rather distorted voice - “This makes my voice sound silly!”

After a good ten minutes, the bus entered a break in the forest. The students cooed and awed at the sight. Aside from the manager’s lodge, there are also a series of tents with a small flag jutting out displaying things related to nature such as a fish, a squirrel, an eagle, and a rock. Near a large lake was a patio and a climbing course. When the bus stopped and the doors opened, Celestia and Luna, still shaken by the rough road, stumbled out and took out a checklist. Their accompanying students stumbled out and stretched their legs. Because of two more students, Sophomores one would add, arriving at the last minute, the Principal had Snips and Snail’ name scribbled on the back of the list, checking them as the two boys fell off the steps. Trixie, still in her high and mighty manner, stepped over them like the bus stairs before them.

“Alright, everyone,” - Luna called out to the wandering students - “stay close.”

After each pair of campers placed their luggage in their designated tent, they began to explore. As is usual for a scenic campsite, most of them hung out by the lake. There were a few canoes each big enough to carry six, but as rules go, supervision is supervision.

"It's beautiful, isn't it?" Cooed Rarity as she sat on the patio.

"The fresh air, the cool breeze," - Fluttershy turned to a sparrow landing on her finger - "the birds that land on your finger."

"I think that only happens to you." Smirked Rainbow Dash as Fluttershy walked away with her winged friend.
Fluttershy squeaked, “I just can’t wait until we have our first nature walk.”

“I definitely want to go on one of those.” Added Spike, getting Fluttershy's attention as she bent down.

“You want to see all the adorable woodland creatures too?”

“Yeah!” Spike hopped up before looking around. “Specifically squirrels, more specifically so I can chase them.” The thought of him chasing arboreal rodents had him bark.

Applejack pulled out her traveling back from the compartment, wiping the sweat from her brow. “I’m just lookin’ forward to roughin’ it. I’ll make my own shelter, forage for food.”

“Uh, you know they provide us with food and tents, right.” Rainbow Dash corrected AJ as she walked around.

“Yup. Still gotta forage, though.”

Rarity, ever a person with hardly a knowledge of bare essentials, had the most luggage. “I’m just up for some R and R, the past few months were all too much for my tastes.”

“I’ll say,” Pinkie Pie imagined a fuzzy pin-puppet memory from all their encounters. “We fought three she-demons in the Fall Formal, fought three Sirens who wanted to hypnotize people with their singing, got captured by spiders, ventured into a dinosaur world, went against a ridiculous rival school, Sunset fighting another” - Pinkie noticed Twilight to her left before letting out an nervous chuckle - “No offense?”

“None taken.” Twilight tied up her sneakers before giving a whistle. Spike barked before joining trotting around to Twilight.

“Got several more of us to transform by either slime or accident, then fought several more mutates.” Pinkie finished as she took a deep breath.

“Yup, Estes Park has been a regular magic magnet.” Added Applejack “Gonna be nice for all of us to come to a place where we won’t have to worry about all that stuff.”

“Hey, Twilight.” The Rainbooms turned to find Flash holding Twilights bag as he approached the owner of said item. “You forgot this.”

“Thanks, Flash.” Twilight grabbed the bag and slung over her shoulders.

“Hey, you still not upset after the whole Anon-a-Miss thing?” Flash asked, adding a little more uncertainty to the already questioning scientist.

“I’ll just…” - Flash turned around - “Be over there now.”

“No, not anymore.” Twilight's answer got the Rocker to stop a moment before he continued. Though still not knowing that he accepted her forgiveness, Twilight whistled to Spike again as she began a jog down the dirt trail.

Sunset took a deep breath as she sat on the cool, green grass, taking off her shoes to dip her feet into the water. While they are at a relaxing camping site, she couldn't help but feel a bit tense. Applejack noticed this as well and approached her.

“What's the matter, sugar cube?” Applejack sat next to her, taking off her thick boots and socks before dipping her feet.

“Oh, it still feels like we are celebrating too soon.” - Sunset looks up at the sky, watching the condensed ice crystals gradually take the form of a bird - “Every time there is just one moment to relax, something bad happens.”

“So what, if anything gets close, we’ll be there.” Rainbow Dash stretched her legs before starting to jog around the lake.

Twilight and Spike also began a jog, here at the small hike trail in the woods. As a little kid, the Techie would use camping trips to explore the fields of science such as how wolves keep the deer population down or bees pollinating flowers in their nectar harvests. With her courses complete for the year well before the Friendship Games, she decided to take it easy this time. No schoolwork, no book reports, no faulty gadgets, just her and her friends in the woods.

Beneath the glasses, Twilight found a strange, red glow behind the bushes. Expecting the worst to come yet again, Spike bridged himself between his caretaker and the danger before them. When the bushes glowed again, the dog rushed forth, barking like mad.
“Spike!” Twilight shouted out as her dog jumped into the bushes. It took two seconds of bush rustling, then silence except for the wind in the trees and the honking of Canada geese. Not one for up close combat, she took out a stick and slowly approached the woody plant. When she is near enough to see the other side of the plant, a purple and green blur jumped out. Twilight staggered back before falling on the dirt road. When she placed her glasses back on her nose, she found Spike holding a black object like a tennis ball as he shook his head wildly. While the dog can talk, a dog is still a dog.

“Spike, drop it!” Hearing the command, the pup stopped shaking and released his prize. She picked up the stone, shook the saliva off, and inspected it. It was a black rock with red gems inside. It didn’t glow as they saw a distance away; perhaps the sun streaking through the canopy? Either way, this isn’t a rock she could recognize easily without her equipment. Perhaps it’s a piece of volcanic rock from an extinct volcano nearby. Placing the rock in her pocket, Twilight and Spike continued on their hike. Nearby was a mountain cave partially blocked with boulders that also glowed red.

The woods echoed with the screech of the announcer phone, scaring away birds and having the campers shut their ears with their hands.

“Hi, everyone! If you start heading to the courtyard, that would be rad! It’s time to start the best week of camp ever!”

A few hours pass as the sun once again reached the Rockies. Everyone gathered by the manager cabin as they waited for introductions. Pinkie Pie, not one for waiting, bided her time by chasing a squirrel with Spike. The other Rainbooms shuffled their feet, mixing the grass with the soil supporting the grass. Twilight still fondled with the stone in her pocket, unsure if she could just perform a simple, and by simple meaning complicated, act of science this one time.

“Okay, everyone, let’s do one last roll call.” Celestia took out her checklist, scanning the first name on the list. “Applejack?”

“Here.” The Element of Honesty answered.

“Bon Bon?”

“Here.”

“Bulk Biceps?”

“Yeah!!” Bulk's roar scared away a few cardinals.

“Derpy?”

“Here!” She answered as while chewing on a muffin.

“Flash Sentry?”

“Here.” The Rocker answered as he tuned his guitar.

“Fluttershy?”

“Y-yes.” Fluttershy whispered.

“Lyra Heartstrings?”

“Here.”

"Micro Chips?"

"Here."

“Octavia?”

“Here.”

“Pinkie Pie?”

Pinkie Pie turned from her hunt before singing, “Preeesseeeent!”

“Rarity?”

“Present.”

“Sandalwood?”

“Here.”

“Snips and Snails?”

“Present.” Said Snips

“And, uh, accounted.” Said Snails.

“Sunset Shimmer?”

“Present.”

“Trixie?”

“The Great and Powerful, if you do mind?” Trixie said in a haughty voice.

“Twilight Sparkle?”

“Here.”

“Vinyl-” Celestia turned to find the DJ just jiving with her wireless headset so loud, one wonders how she is not deaf.

“Watermelody?”

“Here.”

Right on cue, the doors open. Before them were the camp managers. To their right was a woman about a few years younger than Celestia and
Luna. She had a rose skin with a deeper violet red hair with lighter streaks. To their left was a male, just about as tall as Flash but skinnier. He had the same colored skin as the woman, but his hair was blue-green akin to Cosgrove's CRV.

“Hi, everyone!” Greeted the female manager. “Welcome to Camp Everfree. I’m Gloriosa Daisy, your camp director! Think of me as your camp and nature guide.” - She turned to the male. “And this is my brother, Timber Spruce!”

“Think of me as that awesome guy.” Timber juggled the microphone. “Who should always be invited to fun things.”

Giving back the microphone, Gloriosa continued. “We aim to please, so before we hand out our tent assignments, we would like to hear more from all of you. You’re free to do whatever you like here.”

Timber raised a finger. “ Except hiking near the rock quarry, that’s off limits.”

“YYyyess.” Gloriosa added uneasily. “But otherwise, your options are wide open. So what activities will make this the best week of your lives ever!”

“Rock climbing!” Shouted Rainbow Dash.

“Done!”

“Archery!” Rainbow continued.

“Of course!”

“Tetherball!” Rainbow asked the third time.

“Naturally.”

“Rainbow.” Sunset turned Rainbow away from the spokesperson. “We know you’re excited, but give someone else a chance to make a suggestion.”

“Arts and crafts!” From the most unlikely person, the gargantuan Bulk Biceps. “My mom needs new potholders.”

“Awesome!” Gloriosa accepted.

“Cookie decorating!” Asked Pinkie Pie with a slurp of her tongue, getting Gloriosa to rub her belly.

“I do make a mean sugar cookie.” Gloriosa aimed the microphone at Fluttershy.

“Early morning nature walks.” The caretaker asked.

“With walking sticks for everyone!”

“Oo, oo! I got one!” Rarity had Gloriosas attention. “A fashion show! Where I design the most fabulous camp looks inspired by today’s hottest trends and modeled by my classmates in a gorgeous outdoor setting!”

Not exactly a camp thing, but Gloriosa nonetheless… “Camp Tradition!”

Timber tilted to his sister's ear. “We literally never done that.”

“Work with me...” Gloriosa replied to her brother before turning back to the crowd. Timber looked down, seeing Sci-Twi looking at him. Pinkie and Sunset noticed this before giggling. “I’ll be taking requests the rest of the time you’re here. If there’s anything you like, anything you need, just ask.”

“What about the Camp Gift?” Celestia asked while sitting on a wooden table like a schoolgirl. “That was my favorite Camp Everfree Tradition.”
Gloriosa had an uneasy smile, and answered in an equally uneasy tone, “The Camp Gift of course!”

“Really?” Timber whispered in frustration, having his sister wrap her fingers over the microphone.

“Yes, really!”

“Well, I just thought-”

“You thought wrong!” Gloriosa finished the argument before returning to her guests with a big smile.

But the small bit of animosity hasn’t fallen on deaf ears, as Sunset leaned towards Twilight.

“Anyone noticing the tension between Gloriosa and her brother?” She asked, getting an unsure sound for an answer.

“Every year, campers work together to create something useful. A gift for future campers! Working together help forms the strong bonds that last well beyond your time at camp!” She again looks aside to her brother holding a stiff upper lip. “Which is why it’ so important!” Gloriosa looked up at the gazebo. “This gazebo was a gift from last year's group, oh and this totem pole and that sundial! Made by campers!”

“The sundial was our year's gift when we were your age.” Celestia added.

“Yes,” Luna butted in as she coughed. “But I thought it was impractical since the sundial can’t be used at night.”

Gloriosa had a momentary lapse before continuing her speech. “You seem like a very inspiring group, and I hope you leave something very inspiring behind!” Hearing the students cheer, Gloriosa and Timber walked down the gazebo holding a paper bag.

“Speaking of leaving things behind, now it’s time to assign tent assignments.” Timber gave a wink to his sister as she playfully shook her head.

“The girls will be getting their assignments from Timber. Guys, you’re with me!”

Timber went to the lady closest to him, none other than Pinkie Pie.

“Oh boy!” The Pink Wonder held her tongue close to her upper lip as she reached into the bag, pulling out a white card with a green gemstone. “Yay! I’m in the emerald tent!”

Rarity walked up and picked up another emerald. “Me too!”

Applejack grabbed her card, happy to see the color she was assigned to. “Aquamarine.”

“Me too!” Rainbow Dash showed AJ her copy of the card.

“I got amethyst.” Fluttershy turned to find Vinyl Scratch giving her a thumbs up, for the DJ also had amethyst.

Sunset walked over to the totem pole before flipping her card. “Sapphire!”

“Me too!” Twilight looked at her card, though even skeptical than her Equestrian counterpart, she looked at the gem. “Assuming I am; technically sapphires aren’t just blue, they can be pink, purple, yellow-”

“Yeah but they’re mostly blue.” Twilight turned to see Timber right next to her. “That’s why they’re named after the Latin word 'sapphirus'.” Timber watched Twilight look at him with a smug look before whispering. “That means blue.”

“I know.” Twilight showed Timber the picture. “Did you also know that sapphires are just rubies without chromium?”

“No.” Timber reached out for the card, unintentionally brushing Twilight’s fingers. Before things got a little too close for comfort, he pulled the card away. “But did you know that sapphire tent is the best one?”

“No, why’s that?” Twilight asked.

“Because you’re in it.” Timbers answer wasn’t met with any laughter, but neither did it insult her intelligence.

“Okay.” Twilight snatched her card away. “I bet you say that to all the pretty campers.”

“Not true,” Timber stood straight, looking at Bulk Biceps holding a card with a ruby. “You’re in the ruby tent? Ha, that’s the worst one.”

In anguish, Bulk crushed the card in his fist. “Aw man!!”

“I’m just jokin’, buddy. Ruby tent is great. It’s like a sapphire, but with chromium.” The hulk just stared at the manager, though it is clear he is happy with his assignment. “But the ruby and coral tents look alike to the undiscerning eye. I’d better show you where it is.” Timber turned to Twilight. “See you around.”

Flattered at the comment, Twilight turned around, almost colliding with the other Rainbooms as they looked at her all smug. “What?”

“Oh, nothing.” Applejack made a her “fibby face,” though it’s much more justifiable.

Rarity cooed, “That was just adorable.”

Flash, having placed his bags in the coral tent, watched Twilight continue to ask questions. He began to recall his past; Flash failed Sunset, who asked him to not fail Twilight, well at least the Princess. The Battle and the Bands and the Anon-a-Miss fiasco made it worst on that promise. It’s a long road to healing, and with competition being Timber Spruce, that will be tough.

Inside each tent, each electric lamp glowed inside a different colored glass based on the assigned gemstone. For Sunset and Twilight, their tent glowed purple. Placing their bags inside, they immediately ran back out, wondering what else is there for today. As the Seniors, and two Sophomores, murmured to each other, Celestia looked up to find the sun touching the tallest mountain peak.

"It's going to get dark soon." She said

"Okay everyone,” - Gloriosa clapped her hands - “gather by the fire to share smores and scary stories!"

"SMORES!!!" Pinkie Pie bounded up, holding a large bag of marshmallows.

As everyone gathered around the fire area, Fluttershy found Twilight walking towards her tent.

“Are you coming, Twilight?” She asks.

“Oh” Twilight turned around with an embarrassed smile. “I just need to drop something off at my tent.” She entered her tent and placed the weird rock under her pillow before going back to the sparsely inhabited wilderness. As the sun crept over the mountains, the bedroom was illuminated like an old night light as the red glow seeped under the feather stuff object.

At the campfire, most of everyone gathered around, the exceptions being Celestia, Gloriosa, and Timber. Luna, a person with a respected nightlife, had no trouble fitting in with her younger students. While she didn’t bring her bass guitar, Applejack made up for that by playing “Edelweiss” on the harmonica. Pinkie Pie and Derpy had a smorgasbord of marshmallows attached to a branch with multiple smaller branches as they prepared the traditional treat. Rainbow Dash continued with her fun telling a long, scary story.

“And so, the Whomping Willow Werwolf can only be communicated through interpretive dance.” Rainbow waved her arms back and forth. “But not just any dance, just the one it likes. And if it isn’t satisfied, pray to God that you are as fast as me!”

“I could outrun you, Rainbow.” Said Sunset as she placed her hands into her jacket pockets.

“Nuh uh! I could totally outrun you!” Rainbow lashed out. If she could outmatch Zipper, Soarin, and Spitfire, she would have no trouble with Sunset.

“Ooo! Our first camping challenge!” Pinkie Pie swung the branch to hard, releasing the gooey treats in balls of flame. They flew right at Trixie, making her yelp as she ducked below them. As the magician growled at her, Pinkie giggled before blowing out the branch, taking out one of the marshmallows and mashing them between pieces of a chocolate bar and graham crackers. “Smore?”

“Good evening, everyone!” The campers turned to Timber Spruce joining them. “Enjoying this so far?”

“Oh most certainly, sir.” Rarity answered among others.

“Good, because it’s time to tell” - An under light shines below him - “scary stories!”

Timber looks down to find Pinkie Pie holding a flashlight under him. The party planner giggled before turning off the light and crab walked back to her spot.

“Well, I was telling one when Sun Butt interrupted me.” Rainbow attracted a sharp glare from the fire haired teen.

“Oo, ooo!” Pinkie Pie piped in, raising her hands as she prepared to tell her story. “We were captured by a gang of demons and cyborgs, then we were rescued, and we fought a biiiiig battle on a moving truck, then we got flipped over into a Gr-!”

Applejack tossed a rock at her pink friend to silence her from going any further. The Rainbooms looked at the camp supervisor, who had a bewildered look. Children fighting monsters on a truck? Now that’s a story to tell. Collecting himself, Timber looked to at each one of them.
"You know, as a show of trust, I am going to tell you my story.” He leaned forward. “It's time I told you the legend of Gaia Everfree." Everyone looked at each other, feeling hesitant as Timber began as our vision is shown in a traditional MLP storybook style. "Long, long time ago, there was benevolent spirit called Gaia Everfree. Everywhere she walked, the grass grew. With her fingers, she made the furrows where the rivers would run. With a raise of her arms, she would make forests so thick that they would blot out the sun. With her path came the fish, the beasts, and the birds in the trees. She made all this possible… Except for one: man. At first, this wasn’t an issue, then the settlers arrived, our ancestors. And with us came our need for land, for homes, and our livestock. With our guns, rockets, and torches, we burned everything. While we basked on our success, Gaia became ever angrier. With her powers, she destroyed homes, even entire forts, and she sent beasts of wood to pick off the stragglers. Anywhere she went, strange things started to happen. Why else was the Oregon Trail there? So be wise, and beware, for the next time you sleep, keep thinking of Gaia, for the next morning may not be there."

The campers were scared stiff at the story told as a, quote-unquote, “show of trust.” At the sound of a coyote howl, Snips and Snails huddled around Trixie, much to her discomfort. Even Bulk Biceps curled up into a large ball. His red eyes picked caught a moth hovering towards his face. Landing on his hat, the bug crawled to his nose and turned around. It didn’t take long for the small creature to make the muscular man scream in fright and run towards the tents. Only the Rainbooms, Timber Spruce, and Luna stayed behind.

“Wow. I never imagined my story being that scary.” Said Timber as he stood up.

Luna looked up at the night sky before turning to the remaining seven students. “Don’t think too much about it, it will ruin a good sleep.” She says before walking towards her tent.

With Timber waving goodbye before leaving, the remaining seven tried to collect themselves.

“Well, we really shouldn’t believe these folk tales now, don’t we?” Rarity broke the silence.

“Legends are based on real events,” - Sunset added as she hugged herself - “maybe the legend was made when the Natives retaliated against the settlers.”

“At least it’s a story.” Said Spike as he wagged his tail.

“I wouldn’t think of that…” Applejack muttered, and when she has an uncertain look on her face, something's up.

“So you’re saying…” - Rarity clasped her head - “Gaia Everfree is real!?”

The seven began murmuring to each other. It isn’t that farfetched; they did encounter magical beings before, and individuals created via alchemy. All legends would thus be real, but would they be true to tale, is only a matter of field work.

“Maybe Gaia Everfree is a loose Predacon?” Fluttershy asked.

“No, I remember there being just five pods in that chamber.” Pinkie Pie answered, having been there for that fight.

“Oh man.” - Rainbow turned to Applejack - “That means Gaia Everfree could be some creature that got booted from Equestria and knows nothing of this world.”

It hasn’t been out of the norm for them to fight magical creatures. The Rainbooms and Maximals did fight a cursed Roma Candle, Lorraine, and Sierra. Then they alone beat the Dazzlings at their own game shortly before wandering into a dinosaur-filled world, the Friendship Games onwards proved that this won’t stop for a long while. And now with a spirit of nature, it may even take a few personnel from Equestria itself to handle Gaia Everfree. They continued to murmur and debate among each other before Applejack stood up.

“All right, listen up” - Applejack got their attention - “there’s no need to fret about something we don’t know much yet. Why don’t we just go to bed, and see how this plays out?”

“Here, here.” Rarity agreed as she and Fluttershy entered their tent. Applejack and Rainbow Dash into their own tent. Pinkie Pie joined with Sandalwood. With Spike curled up in a small dog bed, and Twilight covered up for the long evening without her glasses, Sunset remained awake as she took off her jacket.

"So much for first impressions." Using a clothespin, Sunset hangs her jacket on the support string. Noticing Twilight ready to snuggle up, she thought of a good wake up question. "Still, Timber Spruce looked pretty cute, didn't he?"

Twilight straightens herself, trying to hide her blush as she puts on the glasses. "Well. He is..." - Twilight stops herself from twirling her hair - "attractive."

Seeing this with the Princess, Sunset cooed as she leans down, placing her head on her wrists. "Someone's got a crush."

"I do not!" Twilight's shout ruined the mood. Ashamed, she sat in her bed, pulling the covers to her waist.

"Hey," Sunset stops Twilight for the moment "is something wrong?"

"Probably from one of her nightmares..." Spike answers with one eye open.

"Nightmares?"

The cat out of the bag, Twilight groaned a little. "You see, since the Crusaders pulled that Anon-a-Miss stunt, I have been having nightmares. Midnight Sparkle was just taunting me, I can hear her laugh. I'm... I'm..."

Twilight couldn't say anymore as she covered her face. Sunset sat on the bed, wrapping her arm around her.

"Hey, Principal Cinch is the one who stressed you enough." Sunset glares in the general direction of their home, cursing the one day the schoolmaster would get her just deserts. "You weren't ready for that magic. But hey, now that you can Pony Up, maybe we can teach you how to use magic."

Twilight looked the other way. "I don't know..."

"Take your time," - Sunset pats Twilights shoulder - "graduation won't come until later."

Twilight places her glasses on the lamp desk, wrapping herself in covers as the sand man takes her away. Sunset yawned as she reached into her backpack, taking out the journal, their one means of interdimensional communication between worlds.

“Dear Princess Twilight,
I know it’s only been a few days since your last visit, and I have to say things are starting to look up now. We’re at a camping ground known as Everfree, and the Crusaders and Maximals are at the Great Valley. I don’t know how Cogsworth is doing at the moment, but I hope for the better. In the meantime, we did hear a scary story regarding a Gaia Everfree rampant in this forest. We have our guard up for now, but we don’t want to bring you in… for the moment. I hope you have a pleasant time teaching this Starlight Glimmer you keep mentioning.
Your pen pal,
Sunset Shimmer.”

With the book sending the message with a soft hum, Sunset turned off the electric lamp, curled up, and went to sleep. Midnight came sooner than later, and everyone is still fast asleep. All except for Trixie. Because the number of tents only accounted for a select few, Snips and Snail shared the tent floor with her and Octavia, snoring in rhythm. Octavia remedied this by having her music player play soft music. The boys didn’t stir as the magician stepped out of their tent in a huff. She looks at the tent of her superior.

“Trixie would be doing so much better if she has more powerful magic.” She huffed. Her ears picked up a twig cracking and so Trixie found a silhouette of a bipedal creature entering the trail alone. Whoever this is made Trixie forsake her safety as she followed the stranger. Far away from any source of light, Trixie was more blind than a mole as the bushes scratched her legs and her toes stubbed against the rocks. She would have just turned around and walked back to the tent in defeat, but her curiosity got the better of her as she found a red glow piercing the thickets. The closer she approached the glowing cave, the more her environment and skin tone became embellished with red light. With no climbing equipment, Trixie dug her fragile nails into the hard surface and began to climb.

“How is it that Trixie goes through the most ridiculous of things just to get an answer.” With one last heave, the magician was at the mouth of the cave, and already it did not disappoint her. The walls of the cave lined with pockets of red stones that got richer as she ventured deeper underground.

“I understand...” - An ominous voice got the magician on her guard, hugging the wall as heart raced. Getting chased by a cybernetic Ursagryph was enough proof that life isn’t a video game. Trixie shimmied deeper into the cave, exposing one red tinted eye at the next room. What was inside was a dark cave, still partially illuminated with the red gems, but also with that of orange, pink, blue, cream, and white gems stones among other colors among a few fossils of animals partially exposed. At the stone floor surrounded by water kneeled a robed figure.

“Yes, I know, Master.” - Gloriosa kept quiet as her voice echoed away - “They don’t pose a threat now, but Timber Spruce and I will continue to monitor them. Yes, I know, we won’t fail you.”

Trixie cocked her head in confusion as the camp leader went another way out of the mountain cave. Who was she talking to? What was the threat she mentioned? And what is the purpose of the gemstones? Trixie turned back to the red tunnel and walked towards the mouth. In a matter of bad luck striking again, a loose rock fell from the ceiling. With death accuracy, Trixie was knocked out cold, not a finger was twitching. The rock on the floor glowed even brighter, drawing forth streams of red energy that seeped through her ears, tear ducts, and nostrils.

Like a fingerprint, Sunset’s dreamscape was unique to her and her alone from everyone else. As a person of science like Sci-Twi, her world consisted of planetoids and stars. Sometimes a phoenix bird would fly by, entertain her with a series of tricks before flying away. Trudging in the far background was Schnookums, the difference being that the monitor lizard was thirty meters long, standing at fourteen meters on a semi-erect gait. With the threats back home all but gone, her spirit self, resembling her Daydream form but with red and yellow bird wings instead of rays of light, floated gently around.

Her eyes did spy a little boy playing on a sandy beach by an ethereal sea. Clasping her wings against her body, Sunset nosedived at the stretch of land. When she was fifty feet away, she spun forward, aiming her feet before landing with a soft thud. The boy turned to the master of the house as she approached him, appearing taller to him with each step. She stretched out her hand, inviting the boy to do the same as they wrapped their fingers around each other. As they bonded, a third, taller being approached them. Though Night Dancer was killed in her late twenties, Sunset took a lot of creative thinking before seeing her with Celestia’s proportions. But like everything, she is only as Sunset sees her; she can remember Night Dancer’s voice and speech pattern, but the ability to feel her touch was no longer possible. The apparition turned to the deep horizon.

“We happen to have a visitor.” Sunset, Night Dancer, and the boy turned to find a deep violet-blue dot in the realm of space. With a flap of her wings, Sunset ascended and flew closer to the speck. The supposed speck became human, almost familiar.

“Vice Principal Luna?” - Sunset spun around the floating human, keeping her wings horizontal like she was floating in water - “Never thought I dream of you.”

“Sunset, thank God I found you.” - Luna spun around helplessly in the pressureless area - “Where am I?”

Sunset laughed, “That’s cute, the thing I dream wanting a way out. Okay, I’ll get you back to-” Luna was not joking; Sunset actually felt her touch. She hovered away, amazed at her discovery when a white vortex brightened up her world. When the planetoids and apparitions stretched and compressed as they went into the void.

Hearing Luna scream, Sunset woke back into the real world with a heavy blow to her head. She rubbed her head, opening one eye to find a table leg floating in the air. Confused, it took her seeing the violet aura to find that Twilight Ponied Up in her sleep. She turned to Twilight sleeping on a floating bed. Even Spike wasn’t spared of the phenomenon

"Ugh, Twilight?" Sunset’s call stirred Twilight a bit, opening a violet eye slightly to see her work before her. She sat up with a loud yelp, finding everything floating. Sunset did find one particular detail - “How are you doing that without ponying up?”

Baffled more at the magic spell, Twilight asked nervously, "A more logical question is: how can I get down from here?!"

Legend of Everfree (New Timeline) Part 2

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Fluttershy woke up early, putting on her camp clothes and went outside to the warm, morning sun. Rainbow Dash, wanting to get her exercises done before the big activities, joined her. The athlete didn’t take a hiking stick, jogging twenty feet ahead of Fluttershy. When she passed by a bush, a field mouse sees the caretaker, catching up to her as it scurried up her leg and sat on her shoulder.

“Oh, my.” Fluttershy smiled at the small mammal. “You want to join me on my walk?”

The mouse responded with a squeak, giving Flutters something to laugh as she gave it a piece of cheese. She continued on, finding sparrows, robins, cardinals, squirrels, even a screech owl landed on her head. She looked down to find some ferrets and rabbits nuzzling her. When she felt several hot breaths on her neck, Fluttershy turned around, finding a bear, a few deer including a buck with five rack antlers, and even a bison.

“Hey, Fluttershy, what’s the hold” - Rainbow ran back around to find Fluttershy’s faunal posse both large and small. - “Hey! Go on! Shoo!”

Rainbow’s demands didn’t make the animals move. The athlete approached Fluttershy, waving her blue hand to shoo the birds away. The sparrow nipped at her fingers, getting Rainbow to move back a few steps. A woodpecker took this further and flew after her, thrusting its beak at Rainbow’s skull. The athlete ran faster as she covered her head. The bird was still faster; even if Rainbow ponied up, she would just be mobbed. So she ran faster, and faster, and faster until she was nothing but a rainbow blur that broke the sound barrier.

A distance away, Applejack was alert at the sonic boom. Then again, a plane might have flown over them in a jiffy. Still wanting to rough it out, she walked around to see if there were any tools the camp used for gathering. She found an ax leaning by the log cabin. Tied to the was a set of instructions, some of which related to safety, but also had a note in red ink, “Only use on specially marked trees.”

AJ shuffles the tool on her shoulder as she walks into the forest, whistling the tune of “Apples to the Core” as she searched for one of those specially marked trees. Her eyes spotted one such tree bearing a spray painted star. Snapping her neck, she aimed the tool at the trunk and took a big swing. For a thick plant, the blade was able to cut halfway through. Raising an eyebrow, she left the tool there and reached for her head. Expecting an enlarged ear, she only touched bits of her golden locks. She pulled out the ax, wrapped her arms around the tree, and pulled with all her might, leaving only the stump. With a groan, she dropped the tree to the grass. To be able to lift a whole tree without sprouting pony ears, the possibility that she could beat her cousins fair and square seems unlikely. She bent back, popping her spine as she lifts the tree and drags it away.

In the cafeteria, Pinkie Pie happily mixed and turned cookie dough on a baking sheet. To her side was Rarity, Sunset, Twilight, and Spike as they discussed the phenomenon happening right now.

“Imagine this,” - Sunset paced around the room - “being able to use magic without using Pony Ups. It could be either advantageous or not, but it just feels weird.”

“Quite so; I’d love to use magic without my ears enlarged.” Rarity added. They turned to the sound of rustling, looking out the window to see Applejack place the tree down and enter the cabin, covered a bit in sweat. The farmer took immediate notice of Twilight levitating her pet without the use of a physical horn.

“You lifted that entire tree by yourself?” Sunset tilted her head looking out the window.

“Eeyup.” Applejack takes her stetson off, wiping her head before putting it back on. “And let me tell y’all that’s the second weirdest thing I’ve seen today.”

Fluttershy rushed in, causing a panic as a few owls and sparrows entered the room.

“Everyone duck and cover!” Pinkie Pie put a frying pan over her head and ducked under the table. But it was for not as the birds calmed down and roosted on Fluttershy.

“Levitation, enhanced animal communication, super strength.” Sunset counted each of their powers. “We didn’t have to be in our true element to use them.”

Applejack looked around for one particular person. “Anybody seen Rainbow Dash?”

Immediately a rainbow streaked into the room, filling the cabin with a gust of air. The streak slammed hard against the wall, revealing to them Rainbow Dash as she collapsed on the floor.

“Super speed...” Sunset added to the list.

“It’s like being at camp has given us magical abilities!” Pinkie Pie tossed the dough into the air. “I wonder what my special ability is.”

Spike raised his paw, “Maybe being more Pinkie Pie than usual?”

“Something at the camp must be making this happen.” - Sunset fiddled her chin - “Maybe a source of magic...”

“Or Gaia Everfree!” Pinkie spoke in a scary tone, though that only frustrated Sunset, Twilight, and Rainbow Dash.

“So what should we do?” Fluttershy shook the birds off of her before looking at Sunset.

“For now,” - Sunset crosses her arms - “just lie low.”

“But what about the awesome things we’ll be doing?” Rainbow complained.

Sunset’s mouth gaped a little before correcting herself. “Okay, not that low. We don’t want Gloriosa and Timber to panic.”

“Here, here.” Agreed Rarity.

“Sure thing, hun.” Added Applejack.

“Mmm hmm.” Moaned Fluttershy.

“Gotcha.” Agreed Rainbow.

“Right-a-roonie!” Pinkie Pie flung her hands in the air, covering the entire table in pink sprinkles.

Of course, without even trying, the Rainbooms struggle with maintaining their non-Equestrian abilities. Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie took a canoe for a few laps around the lake. Ever so the competitor, Rainbow paddled faster than Pinkie could keep up, and the boat capsized while the more muscular Bulk Biceps passed them using baby paddles.

Sunset tried the archery range, picking up the longbow. Before she could aim, she notices Flash Sentry to her left, ready to shoot his second arrow. The rocker fidgets a while before firing at the target twenty meters ahead of them. It lands on the bottom right corner. With a huff, he picks up his third arrow.

"Hey, Flash." Sunset walks up to the troubled young man.

"Hi, Sunny." Flash prepares to fire the arrow when he felt Sunset's hand touch his arm, pulling it down.

"That dimension you went to." - Sunset tilted her head. - "What was it like?"

Flash releases his grip on the recreational weapon, closing his eyes as he recalls how that dimensions Night Dancer and Cosgrove reacted so bitterly at him. His best description was, "Would've been better if I wasn't born."

He looks to notice Sunset's bewildered expression. Flash knows the difference, a trade off of two people because of him. The leader of the Rainbooms saddened as Flash faced her.

"That visit in the dimension made me want to ask: was I really that person all the time? Am I always been a jerk to you, to Twilight, to everyone else?" Flash closes his hand, shaking as he continues. "I think I am if only I paid attention if only I wasn't so high strung."

Sunset lifts his chin, "Have you made mistakes? Yes. But we were younger and didn't know better." She looks at the sapphire classed tent. "Take it from us, she'll forgive you."

Taking a few cleansing breaths, Flash lifted the bow and arrow, landing a near perfect bullseye. "Thank you... for listening." As Sunset walks away from him, the Rocker speaks out. "I'm sorry... For what I treated you as."

Hearing the first person she loved to walk away sent a little chill. In his mishaps, Sunset knows Flash was at least trying. Taking a deep breath, she picks up the bow and arrow. So focused was her aim that she didn’t pay attention to the steaming arrow feathers touching the bowstring. Sunset made one last tug, snapping the string and sending the arrow flying back and stabbing the totem pole. Fluttershy made the most of it; to everyone’s confusion, even to fellow Eco-Kid Sandalwood, the caretaker was serving tea to squirrels, rabbits, and even a bear. She turned to her fellow campers, lifting an empty teacup.

“You want some?” She asks.

“Uhm…” - Micro Chips looked at his table mates, who had an uneasy look as he has - “No thanks, we’re fine.”

Over at the rock climbing course, Vinyl Scratch helped Applejack strap the climbing harness before turning to Rarity. The Fashionista buckled the harness as Timber grabbed the pull string.

“Alright, now to get the buckle on and we’ll be all” - Like the human immune system rejecting viruses, the strap was denied as a triad of holographic diamonds wrapped around the metal loop. - “Be…” He tried a few times more to no avail. So he wrapped the string around Rarity’s midsection. A second after Timber’s triumphant chuckle, the same triad of diamonds and two more grew to her height.

“Oh dear.” Rarity raised her arms, but that made the crystals shoot out, shoving everyone aside and had the climbing course tilt. Applejack gripped on the stone, digging her fingertips before the inertia of object had her tear two chunks off as it slammed into the ground. Timber was dumbfounded at this discovery, watching Rarity laugh while Applejack kept her fibber face as she scooted away from the fallen object.

Twilight stayed in her tent to examine the rock she had found just yesterday. She took off a piece of ruby and placed it under the microscope. The fossilize arrangement seems off for ruby or quartz, so she ground it into powder and poured it into a test tube. Some of the dust particles stayed in the air, making her cough as they invaded her body. She examined the reddened water before adding one sample of chlorine, acid, and salts. The results didn’t turn out as she expected. Her face began to pinch as her violet skin became darker and her iris and pupils shrank while she applied additional pressure to the cup, making it crack.

“Twilight?” Twilight crushed the cup before snapping out of her frustration. She turned around, finding Sunset inside the tent. The fire-haired teen noticed a few shards of glass stuck in her hand and hastily took out her medical kit. Useful as they are, their diminishing supply of Zap Apples probably wouldn’t make the trip, but they could be useful right about now. Delicately prying the glass from the skin, she wrapped Twilight’s hand in gauze before noticing the black and red rock. “What kind of rock is that? Ruby?”

“That’s what I am trying to find out.” Twilight picks up the rock. “I have yet to prove it, but I think this is what is activating our powers without having to Pony Up.”

Sunset rubbed her chin, “There is something Gloriosa is hiding from us, and Timber mentioned a rock quarry we aren’t supposed to go.”

As they tried to piece together the clues, their thoughts were joined by the sound of barking followed by a low churning noise that got louder as the tent fabric blew rapidly in the strong wind. They looked outside to see a black helicopter landing on a grass patch, calming the tempest as the propellers halted. The temporary populace both visitor and staff gathered around while the pilot hopped off the vehicle and ran to the other side. Stepping out was a middle-aged man in a white suit and beige pants. He gave the pilot a large tip before stepping towards the crowd.

“Good Afternoon, Applejack.” He greeted.

Applejack tipped her stetson. “Good Afternoon, Mr. Rich.”

To the friends and relatives of the Apples, it’s no secret that their affiliation with the Rich family goes way back. When the Civil War ended, the apple farms that provided food to both Union and Confederate troops began to wane as the former took hold of the United States. Come globalization in the eighteen eighties, Plush Rich took an interest in the farms and offered royalties for international distribution of their produce. And so the international company Barnyard Bargains was formed. Over time, this cooperation formed a deep bond generation after generation. The only bent chain link to this were the grudges between each immediate family’s youngest child, Apple Bloom, and Diamond Tiara. In the recent months, this has since been ironed out from growing respect. Now the multimillionaire has come home after being away in business for three years.

“Filthy Rich!” Gloriosa wrapped her hand around the business man’s arm. “So nice to see you.” She tried to push him back into the helicopter. “What are you doing here?!”

“Just taking in the scenery, Gloriosa Daisy.” Filthy straightens his cuffs. “After being away for so long, it’s so relaxing to be back.”

“Well, you can explore when camp is over! So if you don’t mind...” Filthy and Gloriosa glared at each other, the former pulled out his watch and tapped the number six.

“Fine.” He enters the vehicle, creating the tempest once more as the helicopter took off and flew towards home.

“What was that about?” Asked Rainbow Dash, getting Gloriosa out of her angered state.

“Mr. Rich is, uh, an alumni here at the camp.” Gloriosa turned to her fellow camper. “He likes to check on his stomping grounds now and again. Now, enough of those things, go out and have fun!”

As the manager walked away, the Rainbooms gathered around at the suspicion.

“Something between Gloriosa and Mr. Rich ain’t right. And I’ve known him since I was a toddler.” Applejack turned to Rarity.

“Quite so, maybe there was a grudge between their families unlike yours, Applejack.” Rarity’s face was shoved with papers.

“Maybe these can help?” Pinkie gave a big smile.

“How’d you get those?” Rainbow watched Pinkie Pie drew in a deep breath before the former shook her arms. “No, wait, I don’t want to-”

“Because I’m Pinkie!” She spoke in a Batman style voice, wearing matching clothes for the role. Seeing the others not as impressed or laughing, she became her usual self, inflating her hair once more. They took the papers to the cafeteria, huddling around the sink as they looked at each paper.

“Late payment, late payment, final notice.” Applejack looked at the other Rainbooms. “This camp’s even more broke than a bottle of whiskey.”

“If they don't make this last payment, this will be this camp's last year.” Fluttershy's comment had the Rainbooms murmur to each other. While they will enjoy this one year, it wouldn't be fair for their younger friends and relatives not having to go to Everfree.

For Rarity, another thought came to mind as she pulled out a designer blueprint. “Not entirely. I propose my fashion show be a fundraiser, and invite every corporation in the Centennial state to give us a kind donation.”

The group murmured again, this time in a more positive look. They were given the chance to do a Camp Gift; preserving the camp will be the greatest gift for years to come.

“I am hoping for something more awesome, like a pair of-” Rainbow Dash gets shouldered by Sunset and Applejack - “but a fashion show sounds rad.”

“As long as I don't wear any fancy costumes.” Applejack noticed the fashionista sucking in her lips. “You're gonna, aren't you?”

Rarity, then the other Rainbooms chuckled at the idea of the farmer wearing snazzy outfits against her will. So they walked out of the workshop, talked to their principals and camp managers about the issue at hand. While the two sisters had a worried look, they did raise a few questionable brows.

“While we find the acquisition of these records criminal,” The two principals, Sunset, Twilight, Rainbow, AJ, and Rarity turned to Pinkie Pie, guilty as charged “we will do what we can to invite as many of them as we can. In the meantime, you have a fashion show to prepare.”

Without a second thought, the Rainbooms gathered Rarity's equipment and carried it over to the workshop. Allowing them to choose what style they want, the fashionista was hard at work in making the dresses. Some were mere draperies; Rainbow Dash wore a gown with zigzags of bright colors with a similar scarf around her neck. Pinkie Pie had a similar design, but with more subtle pinks, blues, and yellows. Fluttershy had a pink top over an otherwise grass green blouse with butterfly patches here and there. Applejack has the most simple design: A red sweater with a fan out the back and daisy duke shorts. In her thoughts, the farmer found it much better than her “Apple Jewel” dress. Rarity’s dress appeared more fluffy, with multiple layers around the shoulders and gown. Fitting her appeal for diamonds, the dress was thinly crusted with small gems. Like Applejack, Twilight's dress was simple, a light violet vest over a white shirt and a yellow and blue striped skirt. Sunset's design had multiple sun patches laid out in a large robe over a yellow dress; when tied up and seen from a distance, it resembled a kimono.Without a second warning, the Rainbooms gathered Rarity’s belongings and went to the workshop. Already an expert on the size and proportion, Rarity went to work right away. Her

“Looks like we got ourselves a show!” Rainbow raised her hand. “Up high!”

One by one, they slapped Rainbow Dash’ hand before giving a good laugh. When they got outside, it was already nighttime, and everyone else has gone to sleep. The sleep soon got to them as they waved good night and entered their assigned tents. At the forest edge, a light-blue foot lands on the grass. In the shadows, her eyes glowed red.
While Sunset slept like a log so far, Twilight was not so fortunate. In her dreamscape, she saw herself in the midst of a battle they can't win. The Crusaders are done for, the Maximals slain, and the Rainbooms scattered to the winds. Even the Predacons have lost as Cogsworth collapsed on the ground, screaming at the loss of his arms. The scream ceased as a blast of light seared his flesh and bones. Midnight Sparkle laughed triumphantly at her victory.

“What have you done!?” Twilight screamed, getting the raven-winged demons attention.

“What I should have done instead of cowering in some minivan!” Midnight grabbed her kinder duplicate, ascending as high as the moon. She raised her fist, aiming it at Twilight's head. “I have one last person to rid of before my next conquest. A pity, we could have made a great team.”

Midnight cackled as she dug her fist into Twilight's skull, hearing her scream as streaks of light stretched around her body. In a few moments, Twilight shattered like glass, scattering around the dream. Midnight started to tear up, but that never stopped her from continuing her laugh.

Twilight woke up early, the impact of the dream all too fresh. She put on a pair of socks and hiking boots and walked to the wooden table. She laid her head on her arms, sniffling before burying her head and wept. The sun rose slowly, this time, giving the former Crystal Prep student some comfort as the light shined between the trees and gave the night sky a pink color.

“Twilight?” Spike, noticing his master not in their tent when he woke up, snuck out and found her sitting at the wooden table. Calling out her name didn’t get her to move, so he hopped on the bench and started pawing her. “Another one of your nightmares?”

“It’s more than that.” Twilight lifted her head and upper body, finally turning to her dog. “This magic is affecting my friends, what if it spreads to everyone else who don’t know how to control it? What if it’s too much for us?”

Spike looked at the dawning sun, collecting his thoughts as his dog mind could. He looked back to Twilight, seeing a growing determination. “So what will you do now?”

“I’m going to find the source of the problem and end it.” Twilight rose up and slapped a fist into her hand. “You found the stone before, can you show me where?”

Spike rubbed his snout before sniffing the air. “If you give me the stone, I can help you find it.”

“Got you covered.” Twilight and Spike looked back, finding Sunset Shimmer, also in her PJs, holding the black and red rock. “And you're not going alone.”

As much as she wouldn’t want to risk bringing another friend along, Twilight realized she wouldn’t have much of a choice. Even with her new abilities, that wouldn’t qualify her to be combat ready. Besides, if there is anyone with as much knowledge in sorcery, it’s Sunset.”

“I’ll get the others-”

“No!” A moment before the outburst settled, finding no one waking up, and Twilight continued. “You see, they’ll only slow us down.”

Sunset’s no Applejack, but that’s not to say she knows something is fishy. And months worth of fighting powerful creatures is proof of that. “I don’t know…”

“Just a peek?” Twilight began to frown, though the thought did appeal to Sunsets nature more as she lifted a tracker.

“Anything goes wrong…” Sunset shook the tracker in a toying manner, raising Twilight’s hopes as the former placed the rock on the table in front of Spike. It didn’t take long for him to gather a smell and began to run towards the dirt trail.

At a distance, Gloriosa and Timber Spruce watched the three campers disobey camp rules. Though they couldn’t help but notice the oddity from just seven Seniors and a dog. The sky became blue once more as everyone woke up from their slumber.

“They’re gone!!” Rarity’s outburst echoed the forest. The Rainbooms kept silent as the Fashionista paced around the campsite. “We have a dress fitting today, and with them leaving is the WORST. POSSIBLE. THING!”

Rarity laid her hand on her face before fainting on the grass. Back home, she would have a fainting couch. That wasn’t the case, and the fainted fashion designer only got her clothes dirtied.

“Why would they go off on their own?” Rainbow Dash crossed her arms, remembering everything that happened to those going alone.

“Maybe they went to find Trixie?” Fluttershy looked at the forest as a sparrow landed on her shoulder.

“We can’t do a fashion show without them!” Rarity continued to whine as she swerved her backside on the moist grass. “I’ll never show off my dresses and we’ll never save Camp Everfree!”

The waterworks continued to fire out, and Applejack would have no more of this. “Look, sugar cube. Frettin’ about two people ain’t changing anything.”

Rarity took a deep breath, wiped the wet mascara from her eyes and stood up. “You’re right. The fashion show must go on.” When she turned around, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, and Applejack tried to keep their laughter at the grass stains on Rarity’s backside. “You two!” - Rarity’s prospective replacements, Lyra and Bon Bon, turned to the Rainbooms. - “How would you like to contribute to our Camp Gift? I have a couple dresses that suit you.”

“Us?” Lyra placed her finger on her cheek.

“In a fashion show?” Bon Bon and Lyra eyed each other before they turned to each other and shouted. “O. M. Goodness!”

Inside the cafeteria, Octavia, out of all people, was conversing with Snips and Snails as they ate like pigs.

“So you two don't know where Trixie is?” Octavia's question merely had them shake their heads before continuing to eat. With a disgusted hiss, the cello player rose up from her chair. “And you are her whipping boys.”

Hearing the phrase “whipping boys” got them to stop eating. As they watched Octavia leave. Snips put down his fork and rubbed a napkin over his fingers.

“She thinks we're somebody to mess with.” Snips balled up the napkin and lob it onto the tray.

Snails, remembering the conversation they had while being mutates guarding the Ground Bridge, took what Octavia said to heart. Snips noticed this as well as he uses his beefy fingers to grab a cup of Mountain Dew.

“You're looking kinda down, Snails.”

“You know, Snips.” Snails turned to his closest friend. “I’m sick of being a whipping boy. When Trixie gets out of the picture, maybe we should step up, eh. Carve out our own, uh, stake. ”

“Yeah, yeah!” Snips turned his overweight body to his slender friend. “Start our own Crusaders or Maximals! How hard can it be?”

Snips prepared to take another sip when his eyes spotted an oddity on the glass. He turned around; it was none other than the Great and Powerful Trixie. Or more likely, Great and Demented Trixie; the magician’s pajamas were torn at the leggings and shirt, her hair ruffled and her blue skin having scratches. And she had an expression to match despite not looking directly at them.

“Uh… Hey... Great and Powerful Trixie…” Snails looked at Snips uneasily before looking at his boss.

“Uh… Coincidentally,” - Snips turned the chair around - “we were discussing our new partnerships, a fifty-one/forty-nine split, leaning your way of course.”

The two boys felt more uneasy as Trixie continued to look straight as she walked forward.

“Trixie isn’t looking for partners.” She answers, wrapping her arms around their necks. “She is looking for whipping boys.”

The magician’s fingers cracked as she balled up her hands. Snips and Snails’ faces drew water beads as the fists illuminated in red energy. Trixie, able to use magic? But how isn’t a matter to them as they must decide quickly or be pulverized?

“We can work with that.” Answered Snips, Snails agreeing likewise as she rapidly shook his head.

For the past few hours, Twilight and Sunset searched long and hard for the rock quarry. Spike's scent did lead them to where their sample fell, but that's as close as they come go finding the quarry. The two girls looked at the map, not that it matters given the childish design.

“Strange that the quarry isn't on the map.” Says Sunset as she marks their current location with a sharpie.

Spike began to growl when they turned to a few rustling bushes. They dove inside another hedge, Twilight keeping Spike from giving them away as held his mouth closed. Gloriosa emerged from her bushes, took a look around, and walked to her right. Keeping a distance of fifteen paces, the three interlopers followed the camp manager. At the break of the forest, they duck down and peeked from behind the bushes. The cave began to glow, as does their rock sample.

They enter the cave, taking in the splendor of the red gemstones that gripped the walls. As they went deeper, Twilight began to twitch and collapsed on the ground.

“Twilight!” Spike trotted over, placing his paw on Twilight's hand as she tried to get up.

“I'm fine, Spike.” Twilight looked at her pet, drawing an encouraging smile that had him lick her cheek. Sunset lifted her up, providing support as they continued down the tunnel. They reach the chamber, finding Gloriosa kneeling on the center pedestal in water logged, gemstone encrusted chamber.

“Please, I need your help.” Gloriosa spread her arms across. “If I can't make the payment, this time, Filthy Rich will tear down the camp and raid the chamber.”

The cavern rumbled as tree roots emerged from the water, wrapping and binding each other into a wireframe of branches. At the top, the roots formed a green-yellow face.

“Gaia Everfree?” Twilight, Sunset, and Spike muttered to each other.

The massive wooden figure leaned down, looking at Gloriosa with her black and yellow eyes.

“Then let him come.” She spoke through her splintered teeth in a menacing tone.

Everyone walked over to the dock, watching the Rainbooms perform a rehearsal for the big night. As Rarity promised, Lyra and Bon Bon got new fashion outfits to help participate. Like Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie, Bon Bon wore a hoodie with blue and pink zigzagging stripes. Lyra wore a violet vest with blue and red zigzags. Each of them strutted across the stage, showing off the goods. When Applejack went on stage, Sandalwood and Microchips couldn't help but whistle, making her blush.

“If only Caramel was here…” AJ thought to herself as she walked to the other side.

In front of all her classmates, Fluttershy cowered at the thought of going on stage. Sure going on stage for the Battle of the Bands and being the second archer in the Friendship Games are two things she could overcome, but fashion as a profession is new to her.

“Come on, Fluttershy!” Rainbow began pushing her, picking up dirt in her shoes as they dug into the grass. “Just walk the walk!”

Seeing Fluttershy add more resistance by pushing against the stage with her arms made Rarity huffed her frustration before walking behind the stage.

“Fluttershy, sweetness. If we do not convince our financiers, this camp will be closed down.” Rarity shows the caretaker a baby rabbit sleeping in her cupped hands. “Which means they’ll ruin this one’s little home.”

The sight of such an innocent animal losing its home fueled Fluttershy’s determination. She stood erect, sucked up her courage and climbed up the stairs. She walks to the middle of the stage, turns to the audience, and waves her hand slowly. The audience remained silent, making Fluttershy nervous before she shuffles off the stage.

“You did good, sugar cube.” Applejack patted Fluttershy on the back.

When Bon Bon arrived on stage, a light purple cloud seeped from under the stadium like a rock concert stage. The audience cooed in wonder as a black figure rose from underneath. But such a sudden appearance did raise brows from the Rainbooms.

“Ooh, I didn’t know we had that in the budget!” Pinkie Pie cooed, leaning forward on the stadium.

“Never was part of the budget in the first place.” Rarity rebutted, looking at her checklist at the list of events.

The robed figure raised her blue arm out of the cloak, turned, and fired a red beam at Rainbow Dash. Good news is, she got her wings back, bad news, the left one is bigger, and the Athlete began flying out of control.

“Now, see here-!” Rarity given a blast of magic, turning her once blue, diamond studded dress into one that brown, green, and orange with hot pink trims, but mostly brown as the Fashionista lamented. “You beast! This shade of brown should only be used for accents!”

“All right, I had enough!” Applejack storms onto the stage. “Just who do ya think you are?”

The figure grabbed the hood of her cloak and pulled it back, revealing the blue head and blue-white hair of the Great and Powerful…

“Trixie?!” The Rainbooms exclaimed, Rainbow Dash colliding with the ground.

The magician drew her arms back, revealing a complementing brown, Renaissance Style tunic with thick, forest green boots. Her eyes glowed red as she stared down her classmates.

“Where were you?!” Trixie turned to Vice Principal Luna standing up. “We’ve been looking for you since you disappeared.” Before she could go any further, Luna found herself cuffed to her chair.

“Trixie has gone places,” - She closes her fist, emanating red energy between her curled fingers - “learned a few tricks. And she can’t wait to show them all.”

“But why?” Fluttershy peeked her head up.

“Why?!” Trixie exclaimed, scaring Fluttershy even further. “Because Trixie is sick of playing the loser, sick of playing a whipping girl! What has she done to deserve it when Trixie deserves to be in the limelight?!”

Pinkie Pie dug into her hair, pulling out a long list. “Well, you did use a horse whip on Dapplewood when he didn't want to go through a hoop of fire. You gave Princess Twilight a bad name when she first came here. You tried to-”

With a wave of her arm, Trixie brought over an Animate CC timeline, delved into the Pinkie Pie flash puppet assets, and deleted her mouths. Mute on one angle, Pinkie turned her head, revealing another mouth to speak from, only to be removed again. Pinkie screamed through her shut mouth in protest.

“Minor setbacks,” Trixie assumes a battle stance, calling in her power. “now I shall challenge Sunset Shimmer to a battle! The winner will lead the Rainbooms, the Maximals, and the Crusaders, and the loser will be banished from Colorado forever!”

“Well, you have no luck here, deary!” Rarity spoke in a sarcastic tone. “Sunset, Twilight, and Spike have been gone for quite a while.”

“Then Trixie declares herself leader!” She begins to cackle, not paying attention to Applejack grabbing her stetson and screwing it in place at a downward angle.

“Wrong, sugar cube.” Trixie stopped her laughter and turned to the cowgirl. “'Cause I'm taking charge for now.”

“What!?” Rainbow Dash complained as she continued to struggle with two different wing sizes. “But I’m the lead-”

“Rainbow!” Applejack stood tall, not looking back as she spoke through her teeth. “Shut your mouth.”

Trixie was not at all amused. “Trixie considers you inferior.” Hearing that made the Rainbooms furrow their brow. With a satisfied smile, the magician turns her head to the left. “But if Sunset has a champion, then the Great and Powerful Trixie shall send her own! Snips! Snails! Come forward!”

The two village idiots walked on stage, tapping their fingers as they waited for their orders. Trixie sent forth her magic, surrounding them in a red aura. Rarity, Fluttershy, and a few other campers shielded their eyes as a flash of light startled them. When it faded, the aura revealed two large, monstrous silhouettes that spun forward and slammed on the ground. The Rainbooms gasped at the sight of Snips and Snails stretching the large bodies and looking at their new, yet familiar beastly forms.

“Yay! We're a wolf and snapping turtle again!” Snips shot his beady eyes open before looking at his spatulate turtle claws in confusion. “Wait…”

The audience screamed at the sight of the two beasts. Timber leaned back in both shock and awe.

“What is going on!?” He exclaims.

Flash, a veteran to these things, turned to Timber with a smug grin. “Haven't you heard? Magic's the real thing.”

Rainbow wrapped her larger wing around her shoulders, joining her country friend as she assumed a battle stance. Snips and Snails, not wanting to get their asses handed to them, cringed before receiving a good blast of magic on their backsides.

“Take them!” Trixie orders as her hands glowed red.

The two beasts turned back to Rainbow Dash and Applejack, stretching out their arms and spreading their claws. But the Element of Honesty could tell the uncertainty in their faces. At the edge of the stage, despite having no mouth, Pinkie Pie did the alternative solution to talking: texting.

The silence is disturbed when both Twilight and Sunset's phone beeped out the chiptunes to “I Got the Music in Me.” Though unable to move her neck, Gaia noticed this right away and snagged the two humans and dog in thick vines and brought them before her. Spike tucked his tail between his legs as they looked at the glaring eyes of the creature.

“Who dares enter my lair!?” Gaia booming voice echoed the cave, adding a shred of fear to them.

“Those are a few of my guests.” Gaia looked down at Gloriosa as she raised her pointer finger. “ Twilight Sparkle, Sunset Shimmer, and…”

“Spike.” Hearing the dog talk, Gaia drew him closer.

“How is this beast capable of talking?” The plant being raised a brow as she inspects the small dog.

“Well, the long story actually” - Twilight and Sunset began shushing him, though their mouths were sealed by a vine or two - “I was given a zap while chasing a horned rabbit. I know, it does scare some, but they'll get used to it.”

Gaia turned her attention to Sunset and Twilight. “If this beast has been infected with magic, then it will spread. Humanity will become more powerful than it already is.” The being combines her brambles, making them spear like. “We must strike, now!”

“No Gaia!” Gloriosa interrupted, adding more fuel to Gaia’s anger. “There are innocent people at the camp!”

“Innocent…” As Gaia collected her thoughts, Sunset concentrated her powers, feeling a burning sensation at her shoulder blades. “When has humanity ever been innocent?”

Sunset's concentration had her sprout a pair of fiery wings, slicing through the thick vines. She then cast her spells to free Twilight and Spike. Gaia's howl echoed the caverns as her shaken body made dried tree bark and sticks fall. Piece by piece, they combine, forming a wolf-like creature. The beast pounced at them, separating Sunset from Twilight and Spike. Fierce the beast is, it proved as fragile as a child's toy when Sunset unleashed her firestorm, sending the makeshift wolf to cinders.

“Twilight, go!” Sunset waved her arm at the mouth of the cave. “Warn the others!”

Without a second thought, Twilight grabbed Spike and raced to the wall. Not having the physical strength as the others, Twilight struggled to get herself, let alone a dog as well, to climb. And Timberwolves, like their animal counterparts, hunt in packs. One took interest in the scientist and chomped down at her ankle. Spike scraped his way to the top, looking down at the sight of his master being hunted. He growled and jumped down, taking a deep breath before releasing green fire. The wooden animal yelped in terror as its "fur" became singed.

Twilight, helpless to save Spike and Sunset, carried out the initiative to warn the others. As the other two were outnumbered, Gaia surrounded Gloriosa in a cage of thick tree branches.

“For your incompetence, you will lead my attack.” Gaia pierced Gloriosa’s skin with needles, sending small doses of magic into the camp managers veins. Her skin became dark and hardened, and her hair becoming moss, the perfect form for an emissary to a plant being.

“Yes…” Gloriosa opened her rose red eyes. “I understand my purpose now.”

Raising her arms in the air, Gloriosa shot vines from her wrists. In one great swing, she reached the mouth of the cave. Sprouting roots from her ribs, Gloriosa began her trek back to Camp Everfree. Sunset would've stopped her, had she and spike haven't been surrounded by Timberwolves.

“Now, mortals.” Spike and Sunset looked up at the colossal plant that is Gaia Everfree. “For centuries I have fought the beast known as man. And now, I end the threat.”

Amongst the wooden beasts ready to sink their teeth into their flesh, Sunset had to think of something and fast. Something. What has she learned from all those years? What does she have to offer?

“What if humanity isn’t the reason you hate them?” Sunset stood straight as Gaia leaned down to her and Spike.

“What if there is something we have that you don't?”

“And what is that?” Gloriosa raised a brow, signaling the wolves to ready themselves for the feast.

“Harmony…”

Twilight ran as far as her legs could carry her. Not the athletic person, she stopped and leaned on a tree trunk to catch her breath. Her ears picking up a series of stabbing sounds, she hid behind the trunk and peeked. Gloriosa continued her journey, generating thorns in her path. Twilight hid behind the trunk once more. No Sunset or Spike, she needed to reach the camp before Gloriosa did.

“It's what they would have wanted.” Twilight took a deep breath but gagged when she turned around to a horrifying sight.

“Miss me?”

Legend of Everfree (New Timeline) Part 3

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Twilight repeatedly took off and put on her glasses before coming to the realization of the person she is seeing before her. Midnight Sparkle, here? And outside her dreams no less. With both feet on the ground, the duplicate clasped her wings against her body, giving the impression that she wore a ballroom dress. Of course, she isn't here for Rarity's fashion show.

“Why are you here?” Twilight curled back in fear. “How are you here?”

Midnight snickered. For a scientist, the demon wondered why Twilight is having a hard time.

“You weren't willing to give in, so I escaped on my own.” Midnight points at the direction of the cave. “There is magic in there, and I'm going to get it all! But I can't do it” - She raises her hands, drawing out illusions of claws - “without you.”

Twilight's eyes shrank while she heard Midnight cackle. With one swipe, the demon left claw marks on the ground. Twilight barely dodged another strike as she began to run. The setback only had Midnight lick her lips and teeth maliciously. How is it possible to literally lose herself.

Back at the campsite, Applejack and Rainbow Dash had the upper hand at first against the reluctant Snips and Snails. Seeing them underperform, Trixie resorted to intervention. She levitated Applejack's lasso and wrapped up the farmer and athlete together.

“You see, Trixie is the highest leveled human being.” Trixie laughs as Snips and Snails grab a hold of her defeated opponents. “Now, she declares herself as Princess of Camp Everfree! All who stand against her will-”

The audience turn their attention to leaves blowing in the wind. Stepping out on thick, woody vines was the demon sent forth to annihilate the threat of magic users.

"It's Gaia Ever Free!" Shouted Bon Bon as Lyra wrapped around her for safety.

The crowd cowered at the sight of the plant monster. Trixie not so much, and the magician stepped forward to the front of the stage. Rarity and Fluttershy used the opportunity to untie their bound friends.

“You dare disturb Trixie's coronation!?” Trixie roared, her hands glowing red.

“Coronation?” The being chuckled in a distorted yet familiar voice. “That really is bad comedy.”

Timber, noticing the familiarity in her voice, started backing away. “Gloriosa Daisy?”

“Gloriosa Daisy!?” Exclaimed everyone else Scooby Doo style.

Pinkie Pie resetted her Flash Assets, restoring her mouths as she loomed from the left side. "Freaky Deaky."

Trixie took this challenge with great fury, hopping off the stage and her fists glowed red.

“There can only be one queen in this forest! Draw!” The magician swung her arm, sending a wave of energy. Gloriosa raised her arms as the wave hit her, covering her in smoke. Trixie laughed at her defeated foe too soon as the fog cleared.

Gloriosa sneered at Trixie as she raised her wooden nails. She dig them into the ground, channeling her earthly powers to sprout thorny vines at the edge of the clearing. Not only did she trap the campers in a thick cage, but Gloriosa sent forth vines at Trixie. The magician gave it her all, severing vine after vine before two vines shot from underneath the stage. Their tight grip and pulling strength brought her to her knees. Not willing to give, she tuned to Snips and Snails.

“Don't just stand there, you fools!” the two boys looked at each other before turning to the sound of the campers screaming while they are chased by Timberwolves. One goes after Lyra and Bon Bon. It trapped them at part of the wall, baring it's teeth at them.

“It was a pleasure being your friend.” Bon Bon sniffled.

“Likewise.” Lyra embraced her bicolored haired friend to the point of choking.

The wolf crouched down, ready to pounce. But before it could, Snips slammed his carapace on the beast, smashing it into splinters. Snails flipped him over, sliding him forward like a curdling player. The sliding shell collided with more wolves, shattering them to pieces. Trixie growled at the sight of them betraying her as the bound magician was surrounded by a thick cage.

Back at the rock quarry, Gaia Everfree scoffed at Sunset's hypothesis.

“Harmony? How would I not know about harmony!?” Gaia turned her head and waved her literal tree limb. “I am Gaia Everfree, the bestower of life.” She curls her fingers, raising both Sunset and Spike up a tree trunk. “I am nature, I have made this planet a paradise, a vision of biological perfection. But now, man had been contaminating that vision for centuries. And you three mongrels have made it worse by tapping in the world's natural magic! Do you what happens then!?”

“I do,” Sunset picks up Spike, petting him in a smug manner “there are twenty six magic bearers in this state alone, now made twenty seven thanks to you. What if Gloriosa renounces her servitude from you?”

Back at the campsite, the Rainbooms joined the fight, smashing several more Timberwolves like plastic models.

“Man are these things fragile!” Rainbow Dash used her super speed to ram the beasts to the thorny prison, shattering them into pieces.

Pinkie Pie, ever full of surprises, used her party cannon to shoot sweets and confetti. “They just keep coming!”

Applejack kept getting scratches as she tossed, punched, and slammed the Timberwolves against hard surfaces.
“Just keep smashing them, sugar cube!”

Amidst the chaos, Rarity calmed herself. She spreaded her arms, generating several layers of diamonds that slowly began to expand into a dome. The wooden beasts began gnawing on the diamonds, shattering their teeth for their reward. The campers cheered at their victory, Gloriosa not at all, but she did curl a smile.

“What does it matter anyway? You were only beating bushes.” Gloriosa retracted her “tentacles” back in her ribs and sat down. Being partially infused with plant material, she can go for miles without food and draw moisture from the ground. All she needed to do is wait.

Trixie continued to fight the vines, stopping when she saw Celestia and Luna approaching her, arms crossed. They know Trixie wasn't in the right mind. But like Roma Candle and the Predacons, it doesn't change what she did.
“We will discuss your punishment when we get back.” Celestia turned around and walked away, leaving Luna to watch over Trixie.

Flash slammed Timber against the workshop door, looking furious. He's no Sunset, Applejack, or Cosgrove, but that won't stop him from getting some answers.

“All right, what's going on!?” Flash points at Gloriosa while the Rainbooms approached the two men. “Your sister is another She Demon, no offense, and both Sunset and Twilight are in danger.”

“Yeah, spill the beans!”

“Pinkie, Flash!” Applejack moved them aside. “Just tell us-”

“Where are-!?” Pinkie's stopped her Batman impression, backing away from the glaring Applejack.

“Tell us everything, from the start.”

Seeing Applejack cross her arms and Rainbow Dash keeping Flash from unleashing his fury, Timber had no choice.

“It all started, long before you.” In a Silent Movie era style, badly colorized one would add, we are taken back to a more simpler time, when the world was more “feral.” Where Camp Everfree is today, there was once a settlement.

“When the settlers first arrived here, we have done what we could to survive.” The men used their axes to cut down tree after tree a day, used guns to hunt for meat and furs. The women tended to the fields, their methods making crops at the cost of eliminating the original plant life. Watching from the forest edge, Gaia Everfree, or at least a manifestation of herself watched in horror as her centuries of work is demolished.

“What we didn't know, Gaia wouldn't handle this.” Gaia’s fear changes to rage, and the following evening, turned to vengeance. Vines snared a few men, pulling them apart into pieces. Women and children were either clubbed by brambles or hunted by the Timberwolves. All that remained was a lone house, and two senior aged people curiously resembling Timber Spruce and Gloriosa Daisy. They made a break for the forest, only to find two Timberwolves jump out and corner them. Emerging as well was Gaia, towering and looking down at them with her glowing eyes.

“The survivors begged to be spared, offering their services in return.” Seeing her vengeance slowly taking a toll, the creature's rage turned to sympathy. She stretches her hand, giving each of their fingers a prick. “She accepted. In time, the settlement was fixed, and later became the camp.”

Back in the present, the Rainbooms, sans Rarity, and Flash had looks of disbelief. This was once a settlement? Having been there for so long, it should be a national landmark.

“But, uhm.” Fluttershy broke the silence. “What happened to the two people she spared?”

Timber kept his silence for a while before pointing to himself.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa!” Rainbow crossed her arms Ultraman style. “Back up! You and Gloriosa are actually old people!?”

“Two hundred and forteen years to be exact.” Timber saying that so casual had them surprised, though they would've expected that much given the Dazzlings being older several times over. They turned around, seeing the tainted Gloriosa still waiting.

"Why does this always happen to us?" Fluttershy pouted as she sat next to a canoe. For once, she had hoped to have a pleasant vacation from all the things she and her friends had participated. They turned to most of their other classmates in a panic. The exceptions being Sandal Wood calming himself as he tapped his bongos slowly, giving Rarity comfort as she upheld her spell. The others being Snips and Snails; with no Zap Apples available to them, they can't change back, but at least they can serve a purpose again. Applejack stood at the gazebo and whistled.

“Alright ya’ll, listen up!” Everyone turned to Applejack as the other Rainbooms, Flash, and Timber joined her. “Now, we understand the situation. Rarity can only hold for so much before she gives. We need your help building the fort.”

As everyone muttered amongst themselves, Timber raised a brow. “And what will that do?”

“Helps us do like what we always do:” Rainbow stretched her arm, keeping her hand pronated. “save the day!”
One by one, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy placed their hands on Rainbows. They looked at Snips and Snails, inviting them to place their beastly palms on theirs as well. They looked at Timber Spruce; despite the trouble they are in, they still believe Timber and Gloriosa are victims in this and they need to make this right. The centuries old camp manager smiled as he joined in, raised their hands and let out a whooping sound. Applejack brought Bulk Biceps, Snips, and Snails along, telling them her ideas for material for the fort. Pinkie Pie used Watermelody and Principal Celestia to provide “ammo” for her party cannons. Fluttershy used her abilities to call forth dozens of small animals.

Rainbow Dash and Timber Spruce knelt next to Trixie's prison with a few glass jars next to them, the tops covered in latex. Timber held one such jar, snatched Trixie's hand and dug her nails into the jar. Soon, the jar was filled with a red smoke before being replaced.

“I have something to ask you.” Timber prepares the next jar. “How do you guys know about magic?”

Rainbow finished one of her jaws before turning to Timber Spruce. “It's kind of what we do.”

Exhausted from playing cat and mouse, Twilight placed herself behind a large tree. Hearing the grass crunch and the trees blasted one by one, she held her breath as the footsteps got louder and louder. When the noises are no more, Twilight sighed with relief. Too soon, as the tree was sliced in two. Beholding the beautiful fiend known as Midnight Sparkle, Twilight stepped back slowly as her darker counterpart balled up her fists.

“You can't keep fighting me, Twilight.” Midnight lands on the ground, folding her wings against her body. “One way or another, I will win! And all your so called friends will be no more.”

Hearing her laugh, Twilight curled back and started to cry while Midnight continued her advances. Why is this happening to her? Why is she seeing her even though she was forgiven all these months ago? She stopped crying and stood up, ready to accept her fate. With one last chuckle, Midnight reached out, ready to take her vessel.
Twilight… Felt nothing. She looked up, seeing Midnight growing more angry as she failed to physically grip Twilight's shoulder.

“Why… can't… I… touch you!?” Midnight growls as she swung her hand at Twilight's physical body.

As she continued her assault, Twilight’s sorrow became amusement as she pondered. Perhaps the magic from the red stones are wearing off? Maybe, she is far away from the cave. Then again, something occured to her as she looked down at her bitten leg. Timberwolves, no matter how animalistic they are, are still plants, moss, and fungi. And the latter are famous for being hallucinogenic.

“Because you're not real.” Midnight stopped her advances, noticing the sudden confidence in Twilight as she stood erect. “You are just an apparition, a shadow outside me looking in. You may have impacted my life greatly, but you are no more than a pane of dark glass.

Midnight's furiousity became fear; she wanted to fly away, she sent several blasts of magic at her. But still Twilight advanced, spreading her arms.

“I may have had a miserable life at Crystal Prep, but at Canterlot High, nothing, not even the Crusaders trying to frame me didn't keep me from feeling happy.” - Twilight wraps her arms around Midnight Sparkle, who twisted around trying to free herself. “This is not your life, it's mine.”

She tightened her embrace, the feeling of admitting her troubles stirred magic within her. For the first time since she helped defeat Roma Candle, Twilight Ponied Up, gaining ears, a longer ponytail, and a horn. She opens her eyes, now glowing a pure white. As the magic enveloped them both, Midnight could do no more than scream her last scream.

Back at the caverns, Gaia continued her argument with Sunset. “When I have rid the world of humanity, the harmony of nature will be restored.”

"Your version of harmony is nothing more than slavery.” - Sunset puts Spike down - “How can you have harmony without free will?"

Gaia leaned down at the red head. "How can you have harmony amidst the chaos of disagreeing minds?"

"Because true harmony only prevails when all voices are heard.” Sunset points her finger at the creature. “You only want to stifle them."

"Your way only leads to chaos,” Gaia creates several wooden duplicates of Sunset herself, who all cross their arms - “or are these the voices of harmony?"

“We are more than just another species.” Sunset clutches her body. “We're part of one big family.”
Gaia hearing that had her raise a speculative brow.

“Are families perfect? No. But we make up for it by all the good deeds we do against all the bad ones.” Sunset waves her arm at the mouth of the cave. “Wiping us out, you will be no better.”

The more she thought of the humans words, Gaia's angered face softened. With a wave of her arm, the Timberwolves became lifeless, collapsing into pieces by decaying corpses. She folded her arms agaist her body, and sank below the shrine. Aside from the wind, the only sounds were that of Sunset and Spike's gentle breathing.

“Go now. Save your family, and prove to me that humanity is worth surviving.” Gaia's voice echoed the cavern. “But know this: I am not the Earth itself, merely the Bringer of Life. One day, he'll awaken. That day, the world will die.”
Sunset grabbed Spike and made her way out of the cave. Having rested a bit from helping Twilight escape, she was able to run farther towards the camp. And the girl and dog arrived in the nick of time too. The remaining threat, an enchanted Gloriosa Daisy, had waited enough, and ordered her timberwolves to attack the shield. Even in a meditation state, Rarity stressed herself too much. She gave in, putting a stop to her spell. Applejack and Fluttershy gave Rarity a grateful smile as the rows of diamonds faded away. The last diamond faded away, revealing the sneering face of Gloriosa Daisy.

“Ouch Time.” Mutters Pinkie Pie as they all see the Timberwolves advancing. Rainbow Dash and Timber Spruce loaded the canisters in the party cannons, covering their ears as Pinkie gave the orders. The canisters landed on the ground with a loud pop and explosion, sending the beasts to the scrap bin. Seeing the most powerful weapon in their arsenal scarring the earth she is sent to protect, Gloriosa summoned a bunch of tentacles and smashed the party cannons. Without any weapons to use the rest of the ammo, most of the other campers panicked while the
Rainbooms, Snips and Snails brought themselves to the front lines.

“It’s been quite a joy while it lasted.” Rarity chuckled dryly as the remaining Timberwolves began their final advance. Sunset prepared her fire magic when she saw Timber running towards his sister.

“Stop!” Timber bridged himself between his vegetative sister and our heroes. “Gloriosa, you don’t have to do this. We can still save the camp! We’ll find a way!”

Gloriosa lowered her arms, stopping the vines and brambles from continuing their assault. Her glowing eyes returned to their natural forest green, looking down at her only flesh and blood for centuries.

“I must…” - Gloriosa’s eyes glowed once more, reanimating the foliage - “For the will of Gaia!” She suddenly felt a burning pain on her arm. She turned a furious eye to see Sunset Shimmer, her hands surrounded in flames.

“Sunset!” Shouted the other Rainbooms at the sight of two of their missing friends.

“Where have you been!?” Rainbow Dash asked “Where's Twilight!?”

Before Sunset could answer, Gloriosa attacked swiflty, binding the Rainbooms, Snips, and Snails in tight bonds. So tight in fact that Applejack's enhanced strength and Sunset's fire abilities are breaking them so easily. The enchanted human tightened her grip on them as she leaned towards Fluttershy.

“Is that fear I sense, child?” Gloriosa murmered as she heard the caretaker's frightened squeaks. “Yes, that is part of nature. Let it in, let it consume you. Feel it. Yes, feel it. Feel the fear.”

Fluttershy let out one last scream before a blast of light severed the plant vine. Gloriosa screamed, her pain releasing her prisoners.

“Leave my friends alone!” Every camper, magical or no, turned to the one who announced her presence. Twilight Sparkle has returned, and all the more impressive. Her form resembled that of Midnight Sparkle, but her skin is the same tone as her original form, and her dress has more shades of blue. She doesn't have a fiery visor like her corrupted, and her horn is physical and straight instead of made of blue light and crooked. She stepped between Gloriosa and her friends, standing tall like a queen.

“You dare challenge me!?” Gloriosa combined her Timberwolves both present and destroyed, forming a larger beast roaring at the challenger.

“I do not challenge you, for that isn’t my nature.” Twilight unfurls her massive wings, now the same color as her skin and swan like. “I ask that you do not harm my friends. Because it isn't my will.”

As Twilight began her speech, the Rainbooms began to glow, an event that reminded them of the last moments of the Friendship Games. They all got their Pony ears, horns (in Rarity and Sunset's case), wings (Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy), and ponytails. They each held their hands, forming a heartshape as they surrounded Twilight Sparkle.

“Nature has a balance. And that balance must be contained. Not just the balance between nature and technology. But the balance between companionship and hatred.” Opening her glowing, white eyes, the Rainbooms unleashed a rainbow, surrounding Gloriosa and giving a shine to the woods. The light fades and the Rainbooms land on the ground. The magic taking a lot out of her, Twilight's spectacular form gave away, trembling as the rest of her friends catch her before she could fall. Spike hopped into her arms, giving his owner a good licking on the cheek.
Timber Spruce approached his sister, now purged of her enchanted form, barely supporting herself with her arms.

“Look!” Shouted Octavia as she pointed at the forest edge. An apparition of Gaia Everfree rose up from the bushes.
Her expression isn't angry, but sympathetic.

“I release you from my servitude.” Timber and Gaia teared up at the sound of their freedom. “Go now, live your lives in peace, and preserve the world for generations to come.”

As Gaia left the forest clearing, the Rainbooms cheered in delight when they found Celestia walking towards them.

“I believe you still have a fundraiser to run.” Celestia chuckled. The girls looked at each other, now with a determined look on their faces as they gave themselves a high five.

With a little help from everyone, the camp grounds are restored enough to be presentable to their guests. Paying their donations, they sat down and watched the fashion show. Rarity showed off her dress, before standing at the side, announcing her friends arrival. After watching Lyra and Bon Bon on stage, then came Applejack and Rainbow Dash, then Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy. Rarity adjusted Sunset and Twilight's dresses to include wireframe wings strapped to their backs. The dresses became a money shot when they glowed at specific places in their body. Seeing the spectacle himself, Mr. Rich drew a smirk as he made his contribution. Whether his heart is as gold as the money vault he has back home, or if only to collect the funds anyway, either way putting that final big check in the box, the camp was saved.

With only three days left before they returned home, the activity for the day was spent with the guests roaming the territory. The Rainbooms spent their time in the sapphire tent, discussing what just happened as they looked at the red and black rock.

“So it's the rock quarry that has given us all these superpowers?” Asked Rarity as she rocked the rock back and forth.

Sunset held the rock, examining it up close once again. “With what we saw with Twilight, we can still Pony Up at least. Come to think, the color of the ruby does remind me of the pendants the Dazzlings wore before they were destroyed.”

“Technically some sort of magical steroid.” - Twilight tapped her head - “Part of the reason why I had nightmares while we are here.”

“So we could use it for the Maximals and Crusaders, maybe they could”

“What? Oh no, no, no, no, no, no!” Rarity interrupted Rainbow Dash’s idea. “I do not want Sweetie Belle becoming a savage like Trixie.”

While acknowledging that request, Sunset couldn’t help but eyeball the outside world. “Where is Trixie?”

Applejack crossed her arms and looked outside the tent. A distance away, Trixie was expelling her magic as she blasted rock after rock. Snips and Snails, still in their monster forms due to lack of zap apples, kept their distance from the laboring magician. “Just doing some hard time.”

“Come on, everybody!” Pinkie Pie began to walk out of the tent. “We got three whole days to explore, forage, and make merry!”

While the other’s left the sapphire tent, Twilight stayed behind, looking at her reflection.

“Are you coming, Twilight?” Spike asked.

“Yeah, I’ll be right over.” Twilight answers. Spike wagged his tail before trotting away. The scientist looked at the mirror again, expecting something to happen at the last minute. She furrows her brow as she turns her body towards the entrance. “Never again.” She douses the lamp and exits, joining her friends the remaining triad of days.

Outside of Everfree Part 1: Journey of the Brave (New Timeline)

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While the Rainbooms and their select classmates armed themselves to the tooth with bare essentials, the Maximals and Crusaders had it pretty easy. Far as they know, no dinosaur great or small would be wearing clothing. The only thing brought to their world is the camera strapped to Dapplewood's back like a saddle. Even in radio silence, the device always records. Diver, a Deinosuchus, was looked at under scrutiny from the other inhabitants despite their reassurances. Having talked to their older acquaintances, they explored the Great Valley, hoping to find a good spot to see the migrating herd.

Tex, a newcomer to this phenomenon, has a Triceratops form. While larger than Apple Bloom's Chasmosaurus form, he is still only half the size of the other Triceratops in the valley and his brow horns curved backward. Walking on all fours was a challenge; at this point in time, he hobbled clumsily, much to Chelsey's chagrin.

As the herd of large animals explored, Dapplewood had his fun by playing “Hide from the Sharptooth” with Ruby. The two kept themselves hidden from the only theropod in the valley, Chomper. The little rex sniffed the air, trying to pick up the young dome head and fast runner. The herd stopped at a large tree with blossoming fruit, lying down to rest. Chomper narrowed his eyes; with a whole bunch of scents in the air, the game was impossible.

“Boo!” Ruby startles her young friend as Dapplewood joins her. “Scared you I did.”

“I wasn't scared.” Chomper picks up some chuckling, turning around to find it was Apple Bloom chuckling.

“Sure you did.” Apple Bloom adds.

They begin to feel the ground vibrate underneath them. The guests looked at a small canyon, where patches of snow began to fall off the rock wall. Before them came dozens of dinosaurs of different kinds. The Maiasaura, Styracosaurus, and Parasaurolophus stood as large as a bus. Larger still were the Longnecks, from the small Amargasaurus to the long Diplodocus. This impressive, but ultimately anachronistic, would impress their Twilight Sparkle if she was here.

But the peace was disturbed when the migration was joined by a loud wail. The inhabitants of the valley looked at the herd. A green and yellow Nothronychus, a therizinosaurid half Chelsey's size, was running, screaming for his life. If a Sharptooth, not Chomper, followed the herd, then the Crusaders and Maximals have their relaxation cut short. They rose up, joining Grandpa Longneck and his grandson Littlefoot. The unusual beast flopped onto the grass, feeling the blades on his beak.

“Yes, we’re safe! Are we here!? Someone pinch me, I must be dreaming!” the next individual he saw was Mr. Topsy Threehorn, Cera and Tricia’s father, looking at him with a stern face. “No, not you. No, nuh uh. I'll pinch myself.”

With two of his oddly blunt claws, the stranger pinched his feathered forearm. It wasn't a dream after all.

“And you are?” Topsy inches his nose horn, getting the stranger to back away towards his herd.

“Uhm, everyone calls me Wild Arms, though I never figured out why.” The dinosaur jumped away when Zipper landed in front of him.

“Maybeitsbecauseyouflailyourarmsalot?” Zipper answered, pointing his wing finger at him.

Wild Arms, as he is supposedly called, looked at his arms and spun them around. “Oh, that makes so much sense now!”

Grandpa Longneck, Littlefoot, Chomper, Ruby, the Crusaders and the rest of the Maximals finally arrived.

“What happened, Wild Arms?” Asked the elderly sauropod.

“Oh, what didn't happen!? The earth shook, spit out liquid fire, and the heat like you've never seen before.” Wild Arms places his left arm over his head. “It's too upsetting to talk about.” - He opens an eye, seeing his crowd not appraised for his drama - “But if you must know, it all started with a horrible BOOM! The fire mountain exploded, blew its top!” Fire everywhere you looked! There was no escape!” Wild Arms turns his body around, raising his arm at the herd's sauropods - “Oh the Long Necks, they were hit the hardest. Let me tell you, our leader was brave. He wouldn't leave any of us behind, even though he was in danger.” He places his hand on his feathered chest in a haughty manner - “I only escaped through my superior grace and agility.”

“The leader,” Littlefoot stepped before the small Nothronychus “is my dad.”

“Who?”

“Bron.” Answers Grandma Longneck.

“Oh, yes, yes. That's our leader, Bron.” Wild Arms flexes his arms, though that is out of context. What a brave Long Neck he was.” - His admiration changes when he spoke in the past tense to the only child of his leader. “Er, is. Yes, still is because he still is, I'm sure.”

“What happened to him?” Asked Sweetie Belle. Wild Arms tapped his fingers, looking down at the young sauropod.

“I don't know.” He turns to the way he and his massive herd came. “I lost him at the fire mountain.”

“He’s in trouble!” Littlefoot turns his head to his elders. “Grandpa, we have to help him!”

“Littlefoot…” Grandpa muttered in an unsure tone.

Littlefoot looks at the Crusaders and Maximals. “You guys will go with me, right?”

“We'll do what we can, but-” Before Cosgrove could finish, the younger Long Neck looked at Wild Arms once more.

“Will you take us back there? You know the way.”

“So, you want me to take you across the earth break, through the land of the feather head sharp tooth, along the moving water, back to the same fire mountain I just escaped?” Wild Arms places his hands on his hips and squinted at the youngling. “How foolish do you think I look!?”

Indeed, Wild Arms looked at the dinosaurs in front of him. Many of them had beguiled expressions.

“Very.” Scootaloo coughed.

Wild Arms looked at Littlefoot. “Let me put it this way: the answer is no.”

“Please!” The little long neck begged. “That's my dad! He needs our help!”

“He's right, Littlefoot.” Topsy reprimands him. “We can't do it.”

“But…” Littlefoot looks at his grandparents, who shared his guilty look. He turns to the guests of the human world, who looked at the ground in shame. Even in another world, safety is a priority. From the smoke and ash reaching the valley, this was one active volcano.

The human turned dinosaurs browsed at their temporary residence near the tree. Still getting used to being animals, it felt weird for them to eat leaves and grass. Zipper rectified that by snipping off pear shaped fruit, balancing their taste buds with the sweet meat inside. Dapplewood still has his fun playing with Chomper and Ruby, taking off the harness to roll into a mud pit and hide his scent.

Scootaloo, however, was getting bored as she chewed her food. Sure, they were in a world of extinct animals, but if anything, she is Rainbow Dash’ faithful follower. And with an attitude to match, she throws the fruit in protest.

“Why are we sitting around for?” She hollered, getting even the three youngest dinosaurs attention. “We're heroes in our world! Why don't we show them?”

“Scootaloo.” Diver motioned her toothy jaws to Scoots. “Being smothered by a volcano won't do us any good.”

“Bull-!” Scootaloo eyes Chomper and Ruby looking curiously at what she said, Dapplewood having his arms at his sides. “We've been through worse! We want to have a better experience than Rainbow Dash, right?”

“Yeah.” They all answered.

“Then why don't we show them!?”

“Okay, okay. We get the point.” Cosgrove turns his head to the direction of the volcano. “Perhaps we were a bit selfish to not help Littlefoot. We'll tell him.”

Tex looks at Chomper and Ruby. “Do you know where he might be?”

The young rex and Oviraptor made their lead throughout the valley. They tried Cera’s family hollow but did not find him or Cera. They looked to the watering hole, finding only Mama Swimmer, three of her eldest children, and her new brood of hatchlings. Spike and Ducky weren't available either. The blue sky became orange by the time they reached Petrie's nest. The next place, and what should've been their first guess anyhow, was Littlefoot's own stomping grounds near a bushel of trees. The three young dinosaurs ran ahead of their teenaged friends to Grandma and Grandpa Long Neck.

“Why hello, young ones.” Greeted the grandfather.

“What brings you here?” added Grandma.

Chomper asked this time, “Is Littlefoot here?”

The elderly sauropods greeting faces turned to those of confusion as Grandpa asked, “Have you checked at Cera’s?”

“We’ve looked for him everywhere.” - Ruby answered, spreading her arms to illustrate their search of the entire valley - “And everywhere we looked, he isn't.”

With the day growing old, and their only grandson not returning home, worry rushed to their minds as the two looked at each other. The moon came soon after, illuminating their world in a tint of blue. Joining the present crowd were Topsy and his family, Ducky’s mother, and Petrie’s mother perched on a dead tree.

“Littlefoot isn't here,” - Topsy answered first - “and Cera should be home by now too.”

“I haven't seen Petrie either.” Added Mrs. Flyer.

“Oh dear,” - Mrs. Swimmer looked in the direction of her nest - “I assumed Ducky and Spike were still out playing.”

With all the families realizing their missing children, Grandpa came to the one conclusion.

“I suspect they went out to help Bron.”

“Cera too?” Seeing his “political rival” nod his small head, the middle-aged Triceratops slammed his foot on the dirt. “What was she thinking!? We have to find them right away!”

“Littlefoot did listen closely to what Wild Arms was saying,” - Grandma added - “he must have gone the way he described.”

“So are we going to wait until tomorrow?” Asked Diver.

Grandpa Longneck looked at the moon, knowing how bright it shines this very night. “Thankfully, there’s some light from the night circle. We’ll leave now. I'll ask Wild Arms to guide us.”

Dapplewood took a few steps with his group of friends when Chelsey stopped him. “It’s best if you sit this one out this time. You deserve it, anyway.”

Dapplewood sat on the ground, watching the rescue party move farther away from him with each step. Grandma Longneck, Tria, Tricia, Mrs. Flier and Mrs. Swimmer returned to their nests. Only Chomper and Ruby were left. In his mind, the young theropod was confused; since he and Ruby arrived in the valley, they have gone on several adventures with the usual Gang of Five. Why would Littlefoot, the one dinosaur who hatched him and loved him like a brother, didn’t ask for his help. Chomper sniffed the air, imagining the scent trails left by the rescue party, especially those of Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom’s for their scents were infused with smells he never recognized in his world. He approaches the young dome head with a proposal in mind.

“We should go too.” He asks of him.

“Yes,” Ruby adds. “But let’s not let them know we’re going too.”

Dapplewood rubbed his lower jaw. He was given an order, true. But Dapplewood hasn’t been to the Mysterious Beyond since his first venture. Chomper, who was raised most of his life there, would have some good knowledge on the terrain that even his brother wouldn’t know about. And Scootaloo wants to rub it that they had a better Spring Break than that of the Rainbooms, they’d need proof. The last fact had him curl a smile.

Having been interrupted from his rest after a long journey to the Great Valley, Wild Arms had his arms and tail drooping as he led the rescue party to the aforementioned volcano. Just out of the jungle in the outskirts of the Great Valley, the land they entered was barren with few drought-resistant bushes and trees. Zipper flew above them to keep an eye out for nocturnal predators, watching as the makeshift herd reached a large gap. Wild Arms crossed using a fallen tree bridging the gap. While Grandpa Longneck effortlessly walked over, Topsy and the teenagers had to gain enough speed to jump across. The Nothronychus continued his half-asleep walk when he jumped to a loud roar. He begins to shake as he looked at the terrain ahead of him, remembering the small arch his herd walked through.

“Okay, guys,” - Wild Arms turns around - “I’m sure you can find the fire mountain without me. I’d love to come, but, uh, I got a thing to do and it's called… live.”

“We need all the help we can get, Wild Arms.” - Grandpa answered for everyone as he lowered his head. - “With the little ones by themselves…”

Defeated, Wild Arms turned around and continued to walk to the one place he would never go through again.

“Of all the wild stunts these young ones have pulled, this is the worst!” Topsy grumbled. A common, and annoying habit is how their children are able to solve their problems easily without their guidance or permission.

“We’ll find them, Mr. Three Horn,” Grandpa replied, turning his head down to the gray Triceratops. “We’ve got to.”

It didn’t take them long to reach the rock arch that served as the entrance to their next obstacle. Chelsey accidentally crushed a hadrosaur skull, one of many discarded bones that dotted the entrance. Ahead of them were a series of mountains jutting up the barren landscape, ahead of them the erupting volcano.

Sweetie Belle gulped, turning her pebbled head to Wild Arms. “So... this is the land of.... the fluffy sharp teeth?”

“You mean the land of certain death!?” Wild Arms’ outburst echoed the canyon before being joined by another loud roar. “Yes! That is it! Okay!? Or we can be sensible, and go the long way now?” - He raises his hand - “I vote sensible. Who's with me?”

Sensible. These days, hardly anything is sensible. For the true dinosaurs, it’s having to deal with Wild Arms’ constant whining. For the humans in dinosaurs clothing, the fact that they encountered a being from a world ruled by horses and fought mythological creatures before and after coming to this world the first time around, it’s tough for them to find something sensible as eating a scoop of ice cream. Wild Arms was running out of options.

“I mean come on! How do we know if the little ones came this way?”

Cosgrove felt someone poke him. It was Zipper getting his attention before he pointed at a rock. With his long neck getting a height advantage, it was no surprise that Cosgrove had a smug look on his face.

“Well, what do you think, Chomper?” The mention of Chomper among them got everyone confused.

“Chomper?” Topsy shook his horned head as he raised a brow.

The even taller Grandpa Longneck looked in Cosgrove's direction.

“I believe we have some followers.” He chuckles before asking. “Oh, children.”

“I don't know what you mean.” Shouted a young voice not too dissimilar to Chomper. “We're not here!”

“It's okay, come on out.” Cosgrove's request had Chomper and Ruby peek their heads out. “Dapplewood, you too.”

The three children, Chomper, Ruby, and Dapplewood came into the open. But the looks of many of their older acquaintances was far from pleasant.

“Hello, everybody. Everybody, hello.” Ruby greeted uneasily.

“Hi.” Greeted Chomper with an uneasy smile.

Though seeing Chomper, a young T. rex, smile gave Wild Arms a reason to scream, “Sharptooth! Everyone, run! Save yourself!”

He hid behind a rock, expecting what damage Chomper could do to the others.

“No need for panic, Mr. Wild Arms,” Grandpa reassured him, turning his aged head to the young sharp tooth. “Chomper here is a friend.”

“Uhm,” - Without looking out from his hiding spot, Wild Arms raised his hand and pointed at the little Sharptooth - “have you taken a look at his teeth!?”

It's alright, Mr. Wild Arms” Ruby places her hand on Chompers shoulder. “Chomper only eats bugs.”

For now anyway; one day Chomper will undergo a growth spurt and become one of the largest land predators to have ever walked the earth. And when he does, bugs will be out of the menu. The inhabitants of the Great Valley know they have a wolf among sheep. In fact, twice now in his life, Chomper was almost killed by Ali's herd and from Doc.

“Dapplewood,” Chelsey stepped forward, lowered her small head at the dome head to scold him. “I told you to stay in the valley.”

Dapplewood tapped the camera before pointing at Scootaloo. The Crusaders and Maximals looked at the deep orange oviraptorid.

“What? What!?”

Topsy shook his frill and stepped towards the children, looking at Chomper in particular. “We don't need another Sharptooth when we're walking into a whole land of Sharpteeth.”

“Finally, someone who's sensible!” Wild Arms raise his hand, expecting a high five. “Up top!”

Aside from the unamused glare he gave, how could a middle-aged animal the size of an elephant give a high five? The Nothronychus lowered his hand, defeated once more.

“Six more eyes are six more chances to find them.” Ruby added to her defense.

“Please?” Pleaded Chomper.

With five children out on their own, and now with three more children with them, the grown-ups are in a pickle. Sure they could use more help. But such help can be a liability. But then again, the Crusaders and Maximals have done stuff before things got deep in their home. And Dapplewood, a boy now turning eleven years old, has done well without supervision.

Grandpa Longneck sighed. “Well, I guess we can't send you three on your own.”

Chomper and Ruby grabbed their hands, cheering at their little victory. Most of them drew a small smile. Wild Arms shook a little before fainting.

“Finally, someone put that thing out of his misery.” Apple Bloom chortled.

“Would you mind, Mr. Threehorn?” Asked Grandpa.

Topsy groaned, scooping the fainted dinosaur with his nose horn onto his armored backside. “I knew I'd be carrying him sooner or later.”

“Chomper,” - Diver grabbed Chomper’s snout and pinched it a little - “can you pick up a scent?”

“Uh huh.” - Chomper sniffed the ground, the scent of perfume and farmland being replaced by stinking plants and water - “Littlefoot... Cera… I smell them all through here!”

Forming a protective circle around Chomper, the rescue party enters the deep canyon. As they walked deeper, the larger individuals slowed their walk, making quieter steps. They looked up, watching for any loose rocks that would give away the so-called feather head sharp teeth. So far, the theropods they encountered, Red Claw, Screech, Thud, and Howler lacked feathers. Perhaps the beasts they might encounter would be true to their name and only have a corset of feathers while otherwise staying bare. Passing a watering hole and turning left onto a cliff ledge, they foot footprints of large theropods and small herbivores, the children without a doubt. The tracks turn to a cavern; from the looks of the small scrapes and blood stains on the entrance these sharp teeth were determined.

“Not too small for us, it is.” Ruby looked at her larger companions. “But too small for you, it is.”

“We’ll go another way.” Grandpa turns his neck behind him, finding two pairs of glowing yellow and red eyes in the night shadows. Without the scent of the young ones to guide them, Zipper lead them instead. One of the predators spied them before moving along; they could take the teenagers, but in such numbers, they would be no match. They reached a cul de sac with a large crevasse leading the way out.

“We’ll rest here.” Topsy laid down, getting used to having someone on his back before drifting into sleep.

Out of all of them, only Cosgrove remained awake. His small head on a long slender neck saw several menacing shapes in the shadows behind them. One of them gathered up the courage to move in the moonlight. The carnivorous beast had a pale green pelt with an olive belly, a blue crest on its snout, and blue feathers forming a mane from the head to the tail. The beast didn’t attack, just stood there looking at the herd. Cosgrove narrowed his eyes, letting out a slow growl. The theropod let out a bellow before returning to the shadows. If not brute force, then patience is what it will use. The night draws ever longer as the moon moves over the labyrinth, and Cosgrove becoming ever more tired.

“Guard change.” Cosgrove turns his head, finding Apple Bloom walking over and laying down next to him.

The young sauropod yawned, rising up from the ground and walks over to the herd. He stops, turning his head at the Chasmosaurus. “Hey… Apple Bloom?”

“Yes?” She turns around, lifting her horned snout at the Long Neck.

Cosgrove takes a deep breath, gathering the information he could in a brain no larger than a cat's. “Thanks… For what you did back then.”

Apple Bloom looks at him with wide eyes before pulling her cheeks back. She bows her head, showing her frill as polite a manner as tipping a stetson. “Much obliged.”

Cosgrove returns to the sleeping group, tucking his head underneath his tail as he drifts into sleep. Unknown to him, Dapplewood had one eye open. The boy turned dinosaur raises his domed head, looking at his sleeping giant of a brother who risked fighting Cogsworth. He turns his snout to the young Apple, the person who braved death in a gutsy move, alone in the moonlight. Dapplewood shrugs, tucking his head to sleep.

It's already sunset when the group wakes up from their long rest. With them away from ambush predators, they let Chomper lead the way. Now they are much closer to the erupting volcano, the sky above them now much darker through the smoke. Chomper stops, raising his nose. This scent is newer, larger, and much more menacing.

“Sharptooth!”

The word ringing in his ear, Wild Arms woke from his stupor, flopping off of Topsy as he made mad gestures like a traffic ward. “Nobody panic! We must be absolutely really certainly-!”

“Quiet, Mr. Wild Arms!” Grandpa chided quietly.

Shortly after, a loud roar echoed the valley. Zipper, high in the sky, can see the trouble much more clearly. A charcoal black Carnotaurus was right in front of them. In her research with Princess Twilight, Sunset found abelisaurs like Carnotaurus to be among the fastest of the bruiser class of sharp teeth, trading power for agility. Even in numbers, they had no intention to fight a theropod.

“This way!” Orders Topsy, motion his brow horns to a series of rock formations large enough to hide them.

Hearing the shuffling of sand, the armored theropod changed direction, sniffing the air for its new prey. Zipper could distract him, but Cosgrove shook his head when he saw Zipper descend. Wild Arms whined, muttering indistinguishable words loud enough for the sharp tooth to turn its squared head towards them. The teenagers of the group readied themselves as the beast drew closer and closer. They did hear a series of chirping sounds, followed by a roar and screeching. Chomper and Dapplewood took a peek, finding the carnotaur chasing a group of ostrich-like dinosaurs away from them.

“He's gone...” Chomper told everyone, including the frightened Wild Arms.

“Hey, did you hear that!? He's-!” - He notices the stern expressions from his companions; he did almost got them into trouble after all. - “I mean yes, he's gone!”

Out of the desert, they followed a small river in a more forested region, seeing the fiery volcano much taller than it appeared from the beginning of their journey. For the humans, it gave them a sense of how their forefathers felt when Saint Helens, Pompeii, and Vesuvius erupted. As expected from a volcano that big, the area was covered in ash, with very little vegetation aside from the dead trees. In time the land will recover.

Zipper flew ahead, keeping in mind the rocks the volcano spat. Though tiny from his point of view, the Ornithocheirus did see a group at the shore of flowing lava. It was the children along with a yellow Pteranodon. On a small islet was a brown Apatosaurus, his leg pinned by a rock. With a U-Turn, he swerved back to his rescue party.

“I found them!” Zipper talked slowly to have the elders understand. The group, even Grandpa and Cosgrove by some miracle, moved to a trot. When they reached the ridge, they saw steam spew from the other side. They saw Cera running down the hill, joining her friends on their operation. Braving rock after falling rock, they reached the top of the ridge just in time to see Littlefoot, atop of his father's head, cross the lava flow in the nick of time. The gang of five and the Pteranodon cheered at their rescue.

“Cera!” Topsy shouts, getting his oldest daughter to rush up the ash hill. Reunited once more, the Triceratops showed no anger as he rubs his nose horn with Cera's.

Spike, Ducky, and Petrie came up the hill soon after, greeted by Chomper, Ruby, and Dapplewood.

“What are you doing way out here?” Asked Ducky.

“We came to save you.” Chomper answers before looking at a heroic looking Petrie.

“Oh, we thank you. But no need saving.” Petrie raises his finger “This time, we do saving!”

Tex looked at Scootaloo. “So much for a better vacation, huh?”

Scootaloo groaned as she and Wild Arms looked at the children.

“Wild Arms!” The Nothronychus turned to see the adult Pteranodon climb up the top of the hill. “What are you doing back here?”

“Well Eta, I volunteered to lead a rescue.” He crosses his arms. “That's what I'm doing here.”

Eta, as she is called, raised a brow and chuckled a sly chuckle. “You volunteered. Really?”

Wild Arms’ confidence became uncertain as he noticed Apple Bloom looking at him as well. “Uh, yeah…” he answers unsurely as he taps his fingers.

Eta laughed as she felt the ground begin to shake. The entire party turned to the slope, finding Littlefoot hopping off his father's head. He laughed in joy as Bron walked up the hill and joined his father in law.

“Grandpa! Look what we've found!”

“I see you’ve found your father.” Grandpa answers.

“He did.” Bron looks at the children.

“We all did.” Littlefoot adds, keeping his head high.

Sweetie Belle approached the gang of five. “You have quite a group of friends.”

“You remind me of someone I know.” Grandpa looks at Bron, reminding Littlefoot of just how much of his father's son he really is. “Come on everyone, let's go home!”

“Finally! Something sensible for a change!” Wild Arms squawked in delight as he hobbled to the front of the herd.

Grandpa Longneck and Bron followed him, then Eta and Topsy. As the Crusaders and Maximals joined them, Littlefoot stayed and watch. He looked to his right, seeing Cera, Petrie and Chomper. He looked to his left, finding Ducky, Spike and Ruby. His own group of heroes with him, The long neck held his head high as he lead his band to the rescue party. Whatever things big or small, all will be encountered through the end of their days in The Land Before Time.

Outside of Everfree Part 2: Conversion

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Not every school district follows the same schedule as each other. Crystal Prep had it's Spring Break at the start of March. One stormy morning had early bird students rush to the school. Among alumni arriving early, Principal Cinch held her head high as she walked the dark halls. The students that arrived early whispered as she continues her stroll. Since the Friendship Games, the students have gained more confidence to speak while Cinch was present. Some even formed their own rough and tumble cliques. Turning a narrowed eye one way or another, the principal found a trend going on. On the chest regions of many, the Shadow Bolt insignia was torn off and replaced with a violet wasp head. Doesn't matter to Cinch; with a word, she can send the students home and buy new uniforms. What did matter was in the vending machine that held this week's local newspapers;

“Heroes stop freaks.”

The headline read, displaying a group shot of the Rainbooms, the Crusaders, and the Maximals being honored by Officers Shining Armor and Clamp Jaw. Below the picture were the prison portraits of two of her staff members, Chrysalis and Sombra, and a young face she never can tell. Cinch could just as well remove them from office, but she would have to do it in such a way so as to not draw suspicion. Her reputation already tarnished before the school she fought for so long, Abacus Cinch walked up the stairs leading to her office.

“No more riff raff to tarnish this school any further.” She huffed as she opened the door.

“Do tell.” Said a male voice. The tall, mafia style chair she sat spun around, revealing a red-skinned boy wearing a black chest piece of armor. She knows of him quite well, Cogsworth. Having spent a two-week intensive study course to stabilize his grades, Cogsworth had every right to glare at his principal as he lifts his motionless legs onto the table.

“Now, see here!” Cinch heard the door slam behind her before she is grabbed and carried towards Cogsworth. Plopping her down at the diminutive desk chair, she fidgets her glasses as she found two of his cohorts, Darksteel and Skystalker walking over to their boss’ side and cross their arms. Being in the diminutive student chair sent chills down her spine as she fixed her glasses. “I have very little business with you, Mr. Cogsworth.”

“Predictably, you would say that, but when there is a little business.” Skystalker slaps a three-page file on the desk. Cogsworth places his fingers on the file and pushes it towards Cinch. With pursed lips, Cinch examines the file, narrowing her eyes even further as she looked paragraph after paragraph.

“What is this?” She demanded, raising a suspicious brow.

“By the end of this year, you will relinquish your duty as principal and removed from office.” Cogsworth's short answer was met with a lowered brow, so he had to clarify. “Take a look at the third page.”

In a haste, Cinch looks at the third page. Her eyes widened at the staggering amount of signatures spanning the paper. At the top of her head, three hundred twenty-seven student names, seventy-three percent of her students, Freshman to Senior, Andross to Zangief.

“This means nothing!” Cinch slaps the papers on the table. Skystalker and Darksteel draw their weapons, warming up the barrels as the Principal calmed herself. A moment's silence, the two draw back their weaponry. “If I am to be removed from office, who will take my place?”

On cue, the door opens again. It was the Dean, Cadence. Not yet able to Pony Up, she stood motionless at the sight of her supervisor being interrogated by some of her students.

“Whatever this is, I do not want-”

“We have no quarrel with you, Dean Cadence.” Cogsworth leans back on the tall chair, resting his chin on his fingers. “We were just about to nominate you to be principal.”

“Me, as principal?” Cadence wobbled a little before Rep emerged from the shadows, giving her a copy of the form given to Cinch. Seeing the situation at hand, she could've just called her fiancé here and now. But she isn't her counterpart, not yet anyway, and so she had to resort to talking her way out. “And what will happen to Abacus Cinch? Will you have everyone you rallied stone her? After clearing your name? You all aren't murderers!”

“No.” Another figure drops from the ceiling, landing on the table. It was Blackarachnia, looking at both dean and principal with her red eyes. “We aren't murderers.” In a flash of red fire, she transforms into Apple Bloom. “We aren't liars.” She transforms into Sunset Shimmer. “We are just like you, innocent children forced into a harsh world. Be glad” - in another flash of fire, the Changeling mutate becomes the femme fatale known as Midnight Sparkle - “you're not a freak!" - the Predacon's Midnight Sparkle form cackled as she points at Cadence. "You know what separates the freaks from the normals? Just one rotten day!” Blackarachnia pulls Principal Cinch by the collar, instilling a bit of fear from the shadow of the monster she helped create. “You had a bad day once, Cinch?”

Abacus smacked the demon hard, reverting Blackarachnia back to her usual state. The student bared her teeth and she crawled back to her boss. The Predacon leader lifts his legs from the desk.

“My associates, my classmates, your students, have spoken.” Cogsworth placed both hands on his desk. “If you just let this, this, fraud continue, many others will be pressured to have their one bad day. If not for us, what about you? What about any future students of Crystal Prep? What about Twilight, the person you loved like a little sister?” He narrowed his eyes. “What about... your unborn daughter?”

Abacus Cinch turned around to see her Dean stagger back. It's true she and Shining Armor have been together for a while now, but to hear the news before she found told him. How did he know she’s expecting a child? X-ray vision maybe? Hacking into her medical files? The list can be endless. It took a moment of silence before she recovered and walked over to the table. Grabbing the ball point pen, she wrote:

“Mis Amore Cadenza”

She walks toward the door, stopping to look at her boss. “If you don't mind, I will be spending the rest of the day off.”

Rep turned the knob with his zygodactylous hand, bowing his head as Cadence leaves the office. Caterina and Porcina stood by the rails of the stairs, also showing their respect for the Dean. Inside, Cogsworth grabs the megaphone, announcing his presence with a loud whistle from the speakers.

“Good Morning, Crystal Prep. Principal Cinch has volunteered me to lead the morning announcement. The majority of our voices have been answered. For the start of the new school year, Dean Cadence has accepted her promotion to be principal. As for Abacus Cinch, I ask of you to bear no ill will against her. Her actions aren't great, but here we are still family. Those of you, who still bear the Shadowbolt insignia, and wish to bear it still, we will not force the change, for we have no quarrel with you.”

The classmates looking at the buzzers paid no attention to the anointed Cadence as she continues her leave. While looking tall and proud, she shed a small tear the closer the reached the door. The team that participated in the Friendship Games looks at each other, uncertain as to where this uprising will lead them.

“Fellow Predacons. I also ask of you to bear no ill will to those who bear your symbol, for they are also your family.” Cogsworth raises a syringe with a burning prod bearing the new Predacon insignia. He jabs it into Porcina, echoing the halls with her scream as the modified retromutagen took effect, transforming her back into a human form. She rubs her wound; no longer does she bear the insignia of the demonic ram, but the new wasp head. “We bear no hatred to each other, no hatred to our families, no hatred to Canterlot High. We will show the world what we really. We will show them that we are better than what we appear to be.” Pushing his legs off the table, Cogsworth initiates the transformation of his armor. His arms became armored to the fingertips, his legs became animate once more as the fiber cables connected the loose nerve cells. He stood up as the boll weevil mask encapsulates his head. He draws his blade, grabs the megaphone, raises it up to his mechanical snout.

“Predacons, transform and rise up!!”

At the same time Cogsworth finished his speech and Cadance left the school, the inside of the building echoed with the triumphant hollering of those who defected from the Shadowbolts. This will be her kingdom. This will be when a new age dawns. This is where he protects. This is the new home of the Crystal Prep Predacons.

Endgame Part 1: When Legends Fall

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It's dead silent in the hallways of Canterlot High. Not one thing crept in the lockers. Well, maybe for a dust bunny or a cockroach, but not a sound was made. This was the last day of the finals week for Seniors. Taking place two weeks before everyone else's, it's the most anticipated moment that they will cherish the rest of their lives.

In the Algebra Two classroom, no one student is ever more excited than Rainbow Dash. Finishing her finals early, the sports captain stared at the clock. If she screams or moans, she'll get deducted points for disturbing her classmates. With each full circle, Rainbow's excitement filled. Now two minutes before twelve, her excitement rivaled that of Pinkie Pies as she crossed her legs. Some who sat next to her wondered if she needed to use the restroom.

The last thirty seconds, just a little more, Rainbow. Just a little more. Like all of Central New York bottled in one person, Rainbow was ready to burst. The athlete pressed her fists against her cheeks, making her cute “fish face of awesome.” Five seconds, her pupils widened with each second.

At last, the bell has rung. Rainbow Dash jumped out of her desk, the last desk she will ever sit in high school. She slaps the test on her teacher's desk and ran out of the door. She hollered in her victory lap as others of her class joined her in the halls.

“Free! I'm free!” She shouts as she goes to her locker.

Among those joining her in the Senior section of hallways, the Rainbooms looked at their excited blue friend. Twilight, not seeing the point in all this, raised her hand, shaking her head to the others.

“Let her have her fun, Twilight.” Sunset answers, watching Rainbow Dash her guitar from her locker. “Let her have her fun.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WDqNHl9ACQs

The last guitar riff died down as Rainbow rocked away from school. The remaining majority still had three hours left before they can come home. And yet for some, the empty void in their lives began to expand. In their free time, the relatives and friends of them gathered in the empty space. Scootaloo, soon to be without her hero, rubbed the locker slowly, remembering each moment that came and went during their time together. Sweetie Belle leaned on her sister's locker, knowing the feeling that her sister will leave the family for a long while, perhaps even forever. Though Big Mac has gone through the town's community college, with Applejack going far away to Everton with the other Rainbooms, Apple Bloom just walked back and forth before stopping and looking up at the ceiling.

“Guess I'm the big sister now.” She says, imagining comfort from those up above.

While Zephyr Breeze made arrangements for what to do with Fluttershy's locker, the four Maximals of Canterlot High bundled up. Before Cosgrove, Tex kneeled down, a squire to his knight. The Thunderfoot son expected this so. He's seen Hoof Lock and Janey graduate. Now it was Sunset Shimmers turn. And soon, he'll be the leader of the Maximals finally.

“Rise, Tex.” He pins the Maximal insignia underneath the trio of cacti on Tex’ vest. “Take your place among us.”

Rising to his full height, Tex couldn't imagine himself now. Him, a member of one of the most respected cliques in school. One that he fought alongside many while he was an honorary. As they make their leave, Chelsey wraps her fingers around his. For today, they are free. And in two weeks, they too will be free.

And those two weeks rushed as fast as the sun. The school empty once more, the streets bustled with young adults from schools all over the city. In Sugarcube Corner, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Rarity were hard at work making the delicious treats. The excited pink party planner looked across the serving booth. Pound and Pumpkin, the babies she cared for the first two years of their lives, giggled in delight, though as babies go, monkey see, monkey do.

“I know, babies!” Pinkie Pie rubs their brown and orange heads. “Your Auntie Pinkie will be graduating, and we'll have loads of fun!”

Twilight chuckled before turning to her enchanted dog. “All right, Spike. Let's go through the list again. Cupcakes?”

“Check,” Spike answered through his teeth as he crossed out the item.

“Frosted animal crackers?”

“Check.”

“Chocolate covered pretzels? Macaroons? Ice cream graduation cake?”

“Check, check, check!” Spike puts down the pen, wagging his tail as he is scratched behind the ears.

“Everything would go smoothly if Applejack and Sunset hurried their butts up!” Rainbow Dash chortled. “What's taking them?”

“Well, I know Sunset is picking up Dapplewood.” Twilight looks in the direction of Great Valley Drive. “Maybe they got stuck in traffic.”

Contrary to that, traffic wasn't the reason. On this life changing endeavor, Sunset and Dapplewood were still in the neighborhood. More precisely, the place they go to every year. The resting place of their one friend; a caring friend, a hopeful daughter, the loving mother. Night Dancer.

“Well, here I am now, Mom.” Sunset greets, putting her hands in her jacket. “Finished high school, fought off monsters… Ready to take a whole new journey.” She looks down at her mud brother, imagining him thinking the same way she is. After all, the day of their graduation is two days from Dapplewood's birthday. She wraps her arm around him. “And I bet, somewhere,” - She takes out a violet birthday card - “you are proud of them, all of them.”

Dapplewood opens the letter. There isn't any money, but something much more important entirely. It was a photograph of him, looking much like his brother today in height and physique, next to his friends. Most importantly, Night Dancer was there. He couldn't believe the photo, so he looked at the writing so strange yet so familiar.

“We met, it seems, such a short time ago. You looked at me, needing me so. Yet from your sadness, our happiness grew and I found out I needed you too. I remember how we used to play. I recall… those rainy days. The fire's glow that kept us warm. And now I find we're both alone. Goodbye may seem forever. Farewell is like the end. But in my heart is a memory, and there you'll always be.”

Eyes widened, the boy reached out, touching the photo with his pointer finger. If he could just go inside the photo. If only he could. All he could do is stroke the capture of the second of time. As he turns to her, Sunset knelt down and spread her arms. She embraces him, tearing up as she felt the boy grip harder as he bawled. At a distance from the cemetery, the occupants of a blue minivan spied the two.

“Shall we proceed?” Asked the driver, a green man with an underbite wearing gold clothes.

The passenger, his boss, Scorpan, raised his hand while watching the mourning children. “Negative. This is a sacred spot.”

It was two minutes later when the boy stopped crying. His boss, no, a sister to him, looked at him with teary eyes before she stood up and offered him her hand. Wiping the tears, snot, and saliva that oozed out, Dapplewood held her hand before they slowly walked out of the cemetery. Though Trixie didn't use it, Sunset decided to keep the sidecar anyway. Extra space to put her backpack in, and there always will be someone with a broken car. Putting on the helmet, Dapplewood's sunglasses became snug as scuba goggles, protecting his eyes as Sunset got the vehicle to thirty-five miles per hour.

Few blocks north of the Maximal stomping grounds, they were busy loading up Applejack's truck with crates of cider, and a bucket of apples marked for caramel dipping. Among the activities listed in Pinkie Pie's agenda, horseback rides are one of them and so the Crusaders and Big Mac led Big Boy into the two horse trailer. They tried to get Flea Biscuit in there, but the Clydesdale isn't that keen with tight spaces. Apple Bloom rushed back into the horse pen, looking for a carrot to use. Flash Sentry, Tex, and Chelsey placed theirs inside, the first of whom wiping off the sweat from his blue brow.

“There should be…” - Flash catches his breath - “two more left in the barn.”

“We got it.” Cosgrove and Applejack enter the barn, where the last two crates of fizzy apple cider rested. He picks it up, turning so fast that he bumps into Applejack. “Sorry!”

“No problem.” AJ rubs her tummy before grabbing the crate and putting it back down. “But before you do that, I, er, we have something to tell you.”

Something to tell? Cosgrove sat on a haystack, wondering what it is for them, let alone her, to tell him. The apple farmer sat next to him.

“Since Big Mac brought you and your friends, you've been a very great help to us. And now,” She pulls a folded yellow piece of paper from her denim skirt “we wish for you to stay.”

The Maximal grips the slip between his muscle-bound fingers, opening it as delicately as he could. It was a job application, with the signatures and information of Granny Smith, Applejack, and Big Mac listed in the references. Of course, much of the information is based on the volunteer form Cosgrove signed eight years ago.

“You're sure?” Cosgrove turns to his supervisor. “I mean you really want me?”

Applejack tilts her head to the right. “Well, I'm gonna be far away, and if there's any good sheep herder I see aside from the family, it's you.”

Cosgrove looked at the application again. Seeing Applejack smile, combined with how honest she sounds as is her family's nature, how could he not feel honored? He stands up, borrows the pen from the produce checklist, and signs his name. He hands it to Applejack, only to notice the happy farm girl looking down at the ground.

“Hey, is there something wrong?” Cosgrove kneels down, seeing AJ’s closed eyes.

“Cosgrove, I need to ask you something.” Applejack moves her head to the side.

Cosgrove drew his head back; something's wrong. “Did I do something-?”

“No, no.” Applejack stammers, trying to find a way to tell him. “It's something I've been noticing for a while. I can see it clearly, but I want an answer from you.” Applejack rose to her full height, looking down at her younger neighbor, friend, and coworker. “Cosgrove, do you love Apple Bloom?”

The question made Cosgrove gulp. Applejack notices the Maximal curl his fingers back. No words are necessary for the Element of Honesty. She drew a smile on her face as she looks at the other side of the barn where her sister, brother, and friends are.

“Then why don't you tell her?” Applejack looks down, finding him in a similar pickle as she was a moment ago.
“You forgive her after she confessed the Anon-a-Miss mess to her. I saw your brother about to punch her, but he didn't. Big Mac told me about you and Dapplewood coming over to check up on her before rescuing the whole lot of us. She’s even risked her life to get Cogsworth back to sanity.”

“Do I deserve her?” - Cosgrove looked at the Senior Canterlot High Student - “I mean, we’ve worked together for several years. Gone to the same school even. But...” - he remembers what Cogsworth said; all that he did, all that he will, would that make her love him?

Not finding any carrots in the pen, Apple Bloom ran towards the barn. There, she heard the conversation between her sister and Cosgrove. Through a hole, the Crusader watched the conversation unfold.

“Cogsworth was my responsibility. My friend, my soldier… My fault.” Cosgrove took a deep breath, his face clenching in confusion and anger. “It works for Mom and Dad because they're police officers. But I don't know about her and I. My point is that after all this, I don’t want her to be treated… treated… like a trophy.”

Applejack knew what he meant. Flash Sentry did treat Sunset Shimmed just like that. She tried to warn her several times, but the red head just shrugged them off. Only a while after her mother was killed did she realize Flash’ colors. It's a good thing for Cosgrove to think about that.

“Hun. One thing I know about you is that you're loyal. And we admire that.” Applejack wraps her arm around the boy. “But it's so much that you're like a dog. You have to realize that you're more than that, that you're only human. You aren't your Mom and Dad, you're their son, their oldest son, and they would want nothing better than to see you happy as we are.”

“What should I do?” Cosgrove asks in a saddened tone.

“Wait until graduation, then tell her.” Applejack answers, looking up at the ceiling. “Like God, love can work in mysterious ways. Maybe she will, maybe she won't. But if she does,” She crouches down, having her eyes at his level “don't take it as a debt of gratitude. Maybe she can be someone to keep you on your feet when you're out of line." She looks at the general direction of Cosgrove's home. "Maybe, with Sunset gone, maybe your brother could look to Apple Bloom like another big sister. You as you should know if there's anything an any of us Apples value, it's family.”

The Maximal drew an encouraged smirk. “Thank you, Applejack.”

Cosgrove grabs the case of apple cider before walking the other way towards the truck. When he is out of sight, Applejack heard a creaking sound behind her. Apple Bloom had her back to the barn, her cream colored skin turning a little pale. As she took in what Cosgrove and Applejack spoke about, Apple Bloom's cheeks slowly flushed as she drew a small smile. Seeing the shadow of her sister move to her left, Applejack drew a smile as well before grabbing the last crate of cider and moving one.

The lead Maximal places the crate in the truck and stood there. Seeing his reflection in with the dozens of bottled apple juice, he continues to ponder. What will his life be when there are no more beasts to fight? Will he wait to be a police officer or be a ranch hand? Is the person he loves willing to share his pain? He felt a hand on his shoulder, Flash’ hand.

“When Sunset left me, I lost the best person I could ever love.” He looks back at the farm, seeing Apple Bloom make her way to the trailer, a fresh carrot in her hand. “You might never find another girl like her.”

Cosgrove looks forward again. Then he stretches to his full height, turns around, and walks towards the trailer. Applejack saw the determination in him, always sooner than later. After loading Flea Biscuit into the trailer, the Crusaders and Big Mac notices Cosgrove approaching them, slowing down as he looks at Apple Bloom.

“Apple Bloom, I-” He stops mid sentence as he saw another person. This one, a male, was clad in black, and orange skin like the extinct quagga. He wore a red jacket, sunglasses similar to those as Dapplewood's but thicker, jeans and black shoes. He looked back at them, giving them a creepy smile.

Sunset neared downtown when she noticed the minivan behind her activate its siren. Beneath the helmet, Dapplewood twisted his body to the muffled sound of the alarm. Maybe she broke a speed limit she wondered. Better to be a little late to the pre-graduation party than never. She pulls the brake levers, looking at the rear view mirrors as the minivan pulled behind her. Scorpan exits the vehicle and approaches the two.

“Anything wrong, officer?” Sunset takes off her helmet as a show of respect to the police officer.

Looking down at the boy, who greeted him by waving, Scorpan answers, “Sunset Shimmer, I place you and Dapplewood under arrest.”

“On what charge?” Applejack overheard the law enforcer on her land, Zeb, as she walks to the horse trailer. She crosses her arms, challenging the claim.

Zeb raises his fist, projecting each finger as he counts off, “Destruction of property, theft of museum artifacts, use of unauthorized equipment…”

Baffled as the occupants in Sweet Apple Acres, Sunset points to the general direction of the police office. “Well, the police station is just…”

“No,” Scorpan interrupted, shaking his wiry hair “for the time being, you two will be in our custody at Tartarus Penitentiary.”

“Tartarus!?” Sunset stood up, keeping her legs pinching the motorcycle. “Dapplewood is too young to be in a penitentiary!”

Dapplewood notices the minivan driver coming out of the car with handcuffs. He turns back to Scorpan as he places his hands in his coat pockets. Expecting the worst, the boy puts his hands behind his back, very carefully texting his warning.

“You will still reserve the right to an attorney. Please,” He waves his arm to the heavier vehicle. “If you two may.”

Sunset looks at the minivan, then to the town. She puts on her helmet, sitting on the leather seat. Dapplewood is quick enough to go dino and slash Scorpan's leg with his clawed feet.

“Hang on, kid!” Sunset revs up the motorcycle, going from zero to sixty in two seconds. Dapplewood, the wind blowing against his armored head, sent the message to the fifteen receivers. In Sugarcube Corner and at Sweet Apple Acres, they all received the same message.

They know us.

At Sugarcube Corner, Spike was walking away from a fire hydrant when officers like those encountered by Sunset and Dapplewood rushed in, rifles up and pointing at them. Fluttershy and Twilight hunkered down as the guards trashed the place in their pursuit of prey.

“Freeze! Get down on the ground, now!”

Among them, Rainbow Dash resisted a little before she was taken down with a taser gun. A few more of the officers rushed into the kitchen, finding Pinkie Pie cradling Pound and Pumpkin as she saw a pair of hands reach for her.

At Sweet Apple Acres, this proved to be a bigger challenge for the officers. That and Zeb’s clumsy leadership. Before things escalated further, Flash Sentry smashed the lock to the pens, releasing the sheep, pigs, a couple dairy cows, and the remaining horses. Granny Smith watched as her homeland turned into a war zone. With security jeopardized, and no Ground Bridge available, all they could do is scatter. The remaining Maximals rushed for the trees, Big Mac bought them time by releasing Big Boy and Flea Biscuit, who are immediately mounted by Applejack and Crusaders respectfully. Cosgrove watched the four riders rode as they could towards the entrance of the farm. Seeing them stopped by SWAT cars, he turned back. Chelsey notices this as well and brings Zipper and Diver along as well.

The officers pointed their guns at Applejack and the Crusaders. They raised the hands, slowly backing up the horses a little while they are surrounded. Suddenly, Zeb pulls Apple Bloom down from Flea Biscuit.

“You leave my sister out of this!” Warned Applejack while she eyed the SWAT officers.

“Just get off your overgrown dogs and come with-!” Zeb was smacked aside by a yellow blur. He looks up, seeing the massive beast form Cosgrove donned in an attempt to scare him. It works for a while as the other three appear in their beast modes as well.

Still, guns are guns. One false move and the sixteen heroes would be reduced to eight. Cosgrove let out a small growl at the surrounding beast hunters before looking at Zeb. The hipparion/sauropod mutate notices the captain of the operation reach for his walkie-talkie. When the radio is exposed, the yellow Maximal chomped down at Zeb's hand, fracturing it to no use. He swipes his tail at many of the guards, Chelsey swiped her elongated nails at them, Zipper attacking one after the other in the manner of a chimpanzee, and Diver performed the aptly named death roll. With the barn the best possible place to protect themselves, Applejack and the Crusaders Ponied Up, the two sisters doubling up on a guard or two.

Driving civilians hugged the right parts of their lanes as Scorpan's minivan chased Sunset and Dapplewood. But size means nothing against maneuverability, and the charioteer of the three-footed steel horse move between car after car. An idle Clamp Jaw felt the breeze of the motorcycle rush by them. Seeing the reckless minivan as well, he turned the engine on and pursued them. The cyclist moving farther away, the driver of the minivan pulled out a pistol and aims it out of the window.

“Wait, don't-!” Scorpan's outburst, along with the police car siren behind them, had the guard pull the trigger prematurely.

Sunset's eyes widened, slowly curling her wrists back from the throttle. Confused as to why they're slowing down, Dapplewood looked at her, watching her arms become limp. Sunset's breath slowed as she looked down. The right side of her jacket had a bullet hole that slowly oozed her life water. She collapses, laying her body on the front of the vehicle. Horrified, Dapplewood jumped off the sidecar, took off Sunset's jacket, and wrapped it around her midsection, making a thick knot with the sleeves. When he saw the minivan stop again behind them, the boy became furious when he saw Scorpan exit the vehicle. He donned his beast form and charged, huffing and puffing as he lowered his thick skull.

Clamp Jaw turns off the siren; he knows of Scorpan being a co-warden at Tartarus. If he's here, Tirek will not be far away. He watched helplessly as his youngest child was tasered. The guard loaded the boy in the van, then loads Sunset Shimmer. Just seeing a glimpse of Clamp Jaw's car driving away, he dials the emergency number.

“We need medical assistance at Tartarus.” He asks.

Zeb's capture team wizened, pulling the pin from small black canisters with their teeth and throwing them at the opposition before putting on gas masks. The gas released, the Ponied up Applejack and the Crusaders succumbed to the noxious fumes and collapsed. In their beast modes, the four Maximals took a while longer to tire. Some of the officers confiscated the rope, lassoing their necks as they used their height to keep out of the fumes. Diver soon fell. Zipper tried to use his many wings to flap out the gas, but the feeling of sleep reached his shoulders and so collapsed. Chelsey slashed one rope, gripping the other with her sloth-like claws before falling to sleep. Cosgrove's elbows and knees bend, his drugged head close to the dirt road.

“Go for the legs, the legs!” Zeb ordered, tilting his head to the bristly tail. “Watch the tail!”

From the trees in the west orchard, Flash and Tex watched helplessly as the capture team finalized their victory. They noticed Cosgrove shuffle his shoulders back, bringing his forelimbs closer to his hind legs. With a growl, he rose on his hinds legs, twisting his great body around and causing a few rope bearers to tumble. One of them recovered quickly, wrapping a rope around the beast's leg. Cosgrove looked at Zeb and let out one last roar before he being knocked to the ground. Granny Smith, Big Mac, Flash Sentry, and Tex could only watch as their relatives and friends are loaded up in the car, the beastly Maximals each taking a car.

Of course, this hasn’t fallen on deaf ears, and soon it the news aired on TV. The spotlight shines on the anchorwoman, her cue to look at the teleprompter. Behind her were the motion graphics adding more flare to the disconcerting video recordings of the SWAT team escorting Twilight, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie.

“Just today, several SWAT units have placed several high school students under arrest.” She shuffles a file. “The charges behind them are unknown, and we have yet to receive a chance for an interview. What is known is the people behind these assaults are Scorpan and Zeb, co-wardens with Tirek at Tartarus Penitentiary. We turn to you now on how the friends and relatives of the arrested. Ollie?”

The news channel switches to the reporter outside the mayor’s office.

“Ollie here. I am here at the mayor’s office among an angry crowd of people.” Ollie brings the microphone towards the crowd. “Hear their cries of disgust.”

Indeed, the crowd cursed and jeered at how powerless their local political office was when the SWAT took some of their beloved townsfolk.

“People, please!” Mayor Mare pleaded to the maddening audience. “We are trying what we can to get their bail!”

“They tore down my fashion store!” Berated Sassy Saddles.

“They invaded my property without reason!” Added Granny Smith, tapping a frying pan in her hand.

“They tore down my pastry store, frightened our children, and took away our number one employee!” Shouted Mr. Cake as he carried Pound Cake on his back.

“People, people!” Shining Armor yelled, dying the uproar. “My sister is one of them! For her and her friends, I promise to get them all back!”

Tirek turned off the TV, got up from his chair, and walked out of the office. Scorpan stood by, seeing Tirek walk by before he joined him in their walk around the dark prison.

“It’s fortunate that none of them saw one getting shot.” Tirek turned to Scorpan, stroking his beard. “How is she?”

“The medical team is working hard to stabilize her.” - He glares at the prison guard responsible for shooting her - “I will personally have the one responsible turn in his badge.”

The lead warden pursed his lips before letting a sharp exhale. “Still…” He begins to walk again. “More of them to go around.”

Below their domain, some of the prisoners conversed with each other with pieces of a mirror. Further down, the ISO chamber, our heroes are held, not by traditional cells, but in translucent, plastic containers. Twilight sat in the middle of her container; without Spike around to give her comfort, she resorted to stroking her hair. Not one to be used to prison, Fluttershy easily broke down and cried.

“They didn’t say ‘I have the right to remain silent!’” Pinkie Pie complained. “It doesn’t feel right without them saying ‘I have the right to remain silent!’ Nobody told me ‘I have the right to remain silent!’”

“Pinkie!” Rainbow stopped her pink friend's complaints. “You have the right to remain silent. What you don’t have is the ability.”

“Rainbow, honestly!” Rarity chastised Rainbow Dash. “Pinkie Pie is a curious sort. It’s fair to assume she never known.”

“Rarity…?” They turned to find Sweetie Belle waking up, rubbing her eyes.

“Ugh…” Applejack shook her head, struggling to get back on her thick boots. “I feel like I drank ten crates of apple cider.”

“You tell me,” - Unaware, Cosgrove, along with the Chelsey, Zipper, and Diver, has his cell augmented with chains to their wrists balancing a choker. “I still feel my head-”

Pulling his arms down made him choke, forcing Cosgrove to stop moving. Still, in a stupor, Chelsey looked around. “Where’s Sunset Shimmer?”

One by one, they looked at the one person who was with her last. He sat at the corner of his cell, not showing his face.

“The poor boy hasn’t talked since he was thrown in.” Rarity answered, scraping the plastic floor with her boots.

Apple Bloom, her cell right next to his, laid sat on her knees, examining Dapplwood’s emotions. “We’re all together now, it’s okay to tell us.”

A long moment of silence, the boy raises his left hand, makes it into a gun before clicking his tongue. Fluttershy cried once more, Rainbow Dash gritted her teeth before punching the wall of her cell. Pinkie Pie’s hair deflated, while Applejack grabbed her hat and placed it close to her chest. The remaining Maximals turned to Cosgrove.

“So... what’s the plan, boss?” Asked Zipper.

“Whoa, whoa!” Rainbow Dash yelped in protest. “You four are giving up!? What plan does he have already!?”

“And you can do better?” Rarity raised a brow as she crossed her arms.

“Yeah, I do!” Rainbow slams her fist into her hand. “I say we bust out of here, pony ears, fangs, and claws! Who’s with me!?” - Everyone else remained silent. Rainbow Dash turned to Scootaloo. “Scoots, you with me?” Scootaloo just turned around, speaking out for everyone at how suicidal the idea is. “Fine, what would you do, Cosgrove?”

Cosgrove hung his head low, pointing his index finger. “We play along with this little game…” He raised his head, showing his transformation eyes as he controlled his rage. “When they make a fatal mistake, they’ll be nothing but prey, my prey.”

The aged man that stopped Grogar from killing the children protecting the ground bridge so long ago sat in his cell, watching Shining Armor pace around the room. Clamp Jaw and Claire sat by the telephone, waiting for a phone call as they have for hours. Next to them were Lion Tamer, Granny Smith, Igneous Rock, Mr. Shy, Hondo Flanks, Blurr, and Big Hooves, waiting patiently as well.

“Perhaps, um, we should call them?” Said Mr. Shy, breaking up the suspenseful silence.

“Police protocol requires us to wait until they call us.” Clamp Jaw responds, not taking his eyes away from the phone.

“This is absurd!” Igneous stands up, looking furious than he usually looks. “We should go over there ourselves and demand our children be released.”

“And then what?” Lion Tamer stands up, getting the Father Pie’s attention. “Tartarus Penitentiary is almost like Guantanamo Bay; reasoning with them is like sucking water through a stone.”

“And how would we know if we don’t try?” Hondo Flanks joins in the conversation just when the doors open.

“Because we designed it.” The grown-ups turn to the door. It was Adagio Dazzle who answered them. Holding a blue scroll, she walks over to the table and spreads the page, revealing the blueprint to the prison. “We invested in the construction of the prison in exchange for creative control.”

The two Thunderfoot adults both raised an eyebrow; Makes sense, considering both the name of the prison and Adagio’s kind are named after elements of Greek Mythology. Shining Armor, along with the other adults, walked to the Siren’s side in a huddle.

“What can you tell us?” Shining Armor pokes at the schematic. “Can they escape on their own?

Adagio paused, raising a yellow-orange eyebrow. “Inspired by the Tartarus of Equestria, we designed this prison to be armed to the tooth. Without a doubt,” - she flips to the second page, pointing to a square room in the bottom right corner - “they’ll be held here. Those cells are designed to keep the most lethal, innovative criminals this world offers. Some have shackles to keep them from even using a makeshift weapon. If any prisoner does get loose, that is where the defense systems come in. Five hundred guards, two hundred assault rifles, and with a recent investment, three automated weapons outside the building known as Cerberus. They could try… Oh, I would love to see them try.”

“So it’s hopeless then.” Clamp Jaw cracked his knuckles, no phone call, no chances for bail at the moment, nor could they break out… and live to tell the tale.

The grown-ups turned a suspicious eye to a chuckling Adagio. “Who said it’s hopeless?”

Far away from them, near Tartarus, a prison guard was returning from his lunch break. When he arrives at an intersection, a cloaked interloper pulls him out of the truck and knocked out. Coming in his place is the exact same guard… except he had red eyes. With a blink, the eyes changed into the guards original baby blue. He showed the gatekeeper his ID, giving him entrance to the prison. He cackled a bit at his little victory.

The plastic cells now have guards at the side, keeping still as soldiers. Rainbow Dash kept slamming herself against her cell, but to no avail.

“What brutes!” Rarity huffed, “They don't let us make a phone call.”

Applejack pounds her fist on the wall of her cell. “Where is Sunset!? If she's alive, we can help her get better!”

But still, the guards remain silent, ignorant to their pleas. Tirek watched the security cameras roll while spinning the reformatted spectrometer , a treasure he found in Twilight's satchel. Looking at it curiously as it blinked the opposite direction from where he is looking, Tirek sat up and presses a button on the PA control module.

“Scorpan, get Governer Thunderhooves on the line.”

“Thunderhooves?” Scorpan answers from his radio. “What's he got to do with the children?”

“Do as I say!” Tirek takes his finger off the button and looks at the security footage again. “Oh, you'll see soon enough, brother.”

Outside the confines of Tartarus, Flash Sentry, Tex, and Big Mac, risking their freedom for their friends, made a hole in the wire fencing and entered. Their next phase is to cut the fuel lines in their armored transports, sometimes getting gas on themselves. Inside, the mole in the enforced building walked along the halls, doing his best to not be conspicuous. Scorpan, getting more worried about the laws they violated getting the Rainbooms, Maximals, and Crusaders, notices the rather proactive guard and follows him.

From a video feed, Tirek gets his call answered from the Governor of Colorado, Thunderhooves. Like his Equestrian counterpart, the Governor is comparingly large and robust to his citizen's skinny stature. His position as taxing one, his expression is not one to be trifled with.

“Warden, you'd better not waste my time.” He asks of Tirek while watching through a video feed.

“And you won't.” Tirek switches on a recording of our heroes being lifted out of the trucks. The five saurian formed humans, and partially anthropomorphic Applejack and Crusaders caught the Governor's attention. Fascinated at first, his promise to uphold the law made him shake lean back in disbelief.

“You arrested children? Without cause?”

“Children?” Tirek switches to another recording to Chelsey's cell. Already in chains, the warden sped up the footage, showing the transformation into human form in three hours. “They're not human.”

Finding a secure hiding spot, Flash Sentry reaches for his walkie-talkie. “We cut their fuel lines, now it's up to you and your mole.”

Said mole was just at the door leading to the breakers when he felt someone grab him. He turns around to see a puzzled Scorpan. The two looked at each other while they heard footsteps echo the hall.

“Scorpan.” Zeb asks, lowering his visor. “What are you doing with this guard?”

The second in command looks at the stranger one more. He gives him a wink. “I'm sending to check the breakers. Don't want any of our guests testing any weaknesses.”

Waiting for the two lead enforcers to leave, the mole enters the room. Before him lies the master controller dotted with switches and buttons of all shapes and colors alike. Everything seems to be in perfect condition. But that wasn't his mission as he turned into she in a veil of red fire. She cracks her knuckles, giving a small laugh.

“I'm not a scientist, Governor.” Tirek raises his finger at the televised government official. “But if you were given the opportunity to find out that magic is real, the possibilities are staggering, and several problems for the past ten years can be solved in less than a month.”

On cue, the power went off. The televisions are down, the lights go off. In the Maximals holding pens, their shackles are released, giving the freedom to rub their oxygen starved skin parts. When the emergency lights give the prison a bright red, the hallways echoed with the hollers of prisoners. Zeb rushed down to the cells, finding none of the magic bearers have escaped.

“Scorpan? What's going on down there!?” Tirek contacted through the radio, but no avail. “Scorpan!”

He first heard a muffled explosion outside the building, followed by more explosions and gunfire. Then the front door is sent flying. Darksteel, and Skystalker rush out of the smoke, their prowess and metallic hides overwhelming the guards. In our hero’s cells, Rainbow Dash wasted no opportunity to give her prison one last kick. Hearing the slam of hard plastic, the guards aimed their nonlethals at her. Zeb backed away slowly, unaware of a certain peach colored teenager behind him.

“Tirek? Tirek, come-!” Zeb is crushed by the cell. A short while after, the remaining thirteen rushed the guards, getting them off guard with a series of quick moves. Some were switched over to another fighter, who gave the finishing blow.

Chelsey steps out of her cell, crouching at the crushed Zeb squirming under her weight. “Excuse me…” She apologizes before stamping her foot. Chelsey looks to her other fellow escapees.

“What are we waiting for?!” Rainbow ponied up, lifting herself a few feet in the air “Let’s grab Sunset and get out of here!”

Cosgrove walked to the fallen Zeb, gently placing his foot on the assistant warden’s cheek. “You’ll lose more than just your wisdom teeth, start singing.”

Zeb eyeballs Chelsey, whose weight on of the plastic lid suffocated him, before feeling more pressure on his cheek teeth.

“Okay, okay!” Zeb muffles. “She’s in the medical facility.” He feels a jolt of additional pressure. “Second flight of stairs, down the walkway and to your right.”

“Lights out.” Cosgrove kicks Zeb in the face, leaving his mark with a black eye. Not the most compassionate of methods, but it’s poetic justice for capturing them unconstitutionally.

Now with this information, they raced out of the room. It wasn’t long before reached the lobby, finding Big Mac, Flash Sentry, Tex, Skystalker, and Darksteel duking it out with the rapidly diminishing bodyguards. Those that remained started to use riot weapons, their plastic shields having a flame retardant surface that kept away the Ursagryphs flames.

“Can y’all clear us a pathway?” Applejack asks of the Maximals and the Crusaders. Cosgrove nodded, he and his colleagues turning into their beast modes. In a V formation, they rushed forward, taking out riot personnel . The Rainbooms climbed the stairs to the second floor, rushed down the halls, finding a most unusual oddity. The room in question is white in color, a stark contrast to the dingy blue in the rest of the prison. Inside laid Sunset Shimmer, sleeping so peacefully under the thin sheets. He pulse is faint, but it’s great to know she is alive.

Scorpan falls to the floor, looking up to see Dapplewood pin him to the ground. Looking into his predatory eyes, the assistant warden could imagine the terror he will receive. As his brother and friends took out the remaining guards, the boy brought Scorpan closer to his face, baring his teeth. Much as he wanted to say, “sorry,” Scorpan knows he’s still at fault as all leaders do. He closes his eyes, ready to accept his punishment. Dapplewood prepares to punch him when his eye spots someone carrying something wrapped in white cloth. Applejack held the recovering Sunset Shimmer in her arms. Dapplewood turns back to the assistant warden, letting out a small hiss before slapping his head on the cold, hard, floor. Everyone else looks at their fallen leader.

Flash raises his arm as he asks, “Is she...?”

Applejack looks down to the unconscious person. What they did find is that the bullet was shot four inches away from her heart. Still fatal nonetheless, underneath the covers Sunset’s chest was wrapped tightly to stop further blood loss.

“Nothing a Zap Apple can’t fix.” Applejack looks ahead to see her big brother for the first time in hours. “How’s it going, Big Mac?”

When one has been with him for long enough, it brings a glow in a person’s heart to see the big lug change out of his usual stoic expression.

“Much better.” Big Mac eyes well up as he reached his sister, and picked up the unconscious redhead.

“A tear-jerking reunion, indeed.” The Rainbooms, Crusaders, Maximals, Big Mac, and Flash turned to the three elephants in the room Skystalker, Darksteel, and Blackarachnia, the first being the one who spoke out. “But would it be more logical to perform this at another setting at this time?”

Twilight stepped forward to the three Crystal Prep mutates. They can’t expect to all ride them back to Estes Park now, can they?

“Can you help Spike operate the Ground Bridge for us?” She asks.

Darksteel formed a dimple as he transformed into his techno-organic beast mode, joining Skystalker and Blackarachnia.

“By the way,” - The female Predacon turns to them, specifically the Rainbooms and Flash - “our boss sends his thanks.” Showing a toothy grin, Blackarachnia mounts Darksteel as he goes into a gallop, flying away towards home.

On a momentous victory such as this, Pinkie Pie reaches into her pockets. Feeling nothing, she looks everywhere; not even her hair was spared the confiscation of her possessions as per prison protocol.

“Anyone know where the lost and found is?”

“Not planning to leave anytime soon?” The heroes turn away from their makeshift exit, looking upstairs to find the one and only Tirek, slowly taking each step. “You are still felons for violating the law, and if you are ever brought to court, you each can’t rely on each other at witnesses.”

“So have you, you big brute.” Rarity crosses her arms as her best friends and one sibling glare at him, Fluttershy doing a less lethal version of “The Stare.”

Eighteen teenagers against one warden, not very fair odds for him. And when they get out, they will tell the press everything that happened. Tirek took a deep breath, reaching into his coat pocket.

“If I can’t let them study you...” Tirek pulls out the last thing our heroes want to see in the wrong hands: Twilight’s spectrometer. “I’ll have to show them!”

“No, wait!” Twilight screams too late.

The device unlatches itself, bringing the dark magic trapped since before Midterms to envelope him in shadow. The device then starts sucking up their magic. The Rainbooms felt this before, recalling how exhausted they felt when one by one they became powerless during the Friendship Games. The Crusaders and most of the Maximals, not so much as the magic sapped the energy from their younger bodies and rid the second group of their beast modes. Flash, Big Mac, and Tex, unable to channel their magic yet, were immune to the process. They are nonetheless horrified by the time Scootaloo got her strength sapped and collapsed; the great league of heroes, now becoming merely human once more.

“Wow…” Pinkie Pie’s hair deflates, becoming a flat shape like her sister, Marble. “The sugar crash is coming again.”

The magics of both Harmony and Disharmony clashed with one another as they reached inside the warden. He began to stagger, growing in size with each step. The three healthy young men backed away from the growing Tirek to tend to the ill. When he was three times his normal size, Tirek’s waist elongated; he screamed in pain as another pair of legs burst out and slammed on the floor with a great boom. His feet both old and new became elongated as his toes reduced to cloves. Ripping through his clothes, he gripped his head, feeling a pair of bony projects grow to a length from his head to his belly button. Smashing through the walls was now a gigantic horned centaur, and bore a furious expression as he looked at the city.

“Now…” His deep, booming voice echoes in the prison. “To business.”

Crushing the pendant as he lifted one leg after the other, Tirek began his slow trek towards the one place where it all began. Each step became less loud than the one before as the giant reached the hills. Trouble brews once more.

Endgame Part 2: Death of the Family

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Igneous Pie keeps his stoic face while Granny Smith, Mr. Shy, and Hondo Flanks dozed off. It’s been too long for them waiting for a call. Police Protocol? Igneous huffed in his thoughts as he looks at the two police officers on the table. Shining Armor continues to pace the room when the phone on the table rings. Clamp Jaw promptly picks up the phone.

“Hello?” Clamp Jaw asks.

“Hi, Mr. Thunderfoot.” Answers a familiar southern drawl.

“Applejack?” Clamp Jaw mentioning her name has Granny Smith awaken. “Is everyone okay? Your sister, friends, my sons?”

At the other side of the line, Applejack holds the telephone as she turns around, her fellow seniors tending to the graying Crusaders and Maximals. “Yessum, we’re all fine, except Sunset.”

Clamp Jaw stands up straight. “We’ll send for an ambulance immediately!”

“Uhm, hold that for a moment.” - Applejack stops him, a worried tone in her voice. - “Right now, you need to get everyone out of the town. You’re expecting company.”

Before he can ask why, Clamp Jaw, his wife, Shining Armor, and their guests felt a small tremor. The former Crystal Prep student lifts the blinds, his squarish jaw gaping at the sight of a certain horned centaur in the distance. The other inhabitants of the office looked out of the window in both astonishment and fear.

With Tirek slowly but surely approaching, the vibrations from each of his thunderous hooves were much more intense. Assuming this to be an earthquake, the inhabitants fled their houses, hoping to find their safe havens in the deep part of the city. For the prisons and asylums, the feeling of dread can be no more frightening. As the plaster fell off the walls and ceiling, the inmates pulled the bars, yelling in protest to be released. Sombra and Chrysalis kept to their cells, imagining the punishment they will be in as they looked up. In another cell, Roma Candle just drew a toothy grin.

“Heh, heh, heh.” She lifts her eyes, hissing through her teeth. “You’re in trouble now.”

Near the main part of the city, traffic clogged the streets like a stuffy nose. The many and the wise evacuees got out of their vehicles and ran. Those that stayed in the cars and honked in protest needed a little motivation. And that motivation is the monstrous Tirek as his cloven hooves stabbed the abandoned vehicles while he walked. Owners of households with basements stood in terror as the monstrous centaur walked over them.

Seeing the giant as clear as day, Spike had his tail tucked between his legs as he ran towards the school. He is stopped when two pairs of clawed feet touch the ground. He looks up, finding the draconic face of Skystalker. Letting out a little screech, the beast transforms into his anthropomorphic form. Not having trusted him or the other Predacons yet, the purple pup growls as Blackarachnia and Darksteel surround him.

“A logical emotion.” Skystalker shows the dog a picture of the powerless Twilight Sparkle. “Though would it be more logical to be elsewhere at this time?”

Rarity whined as she helped Applejack, Big Mac, Rainbow Dash, and Tex move the injured security guards into an unoccupied jail cell. If they had their magic, she and Twilight could have levitated them all in one trip. Sadly this isn’t so, and the fashionista had to use what physical strength she had to lift one very overweight guard to a cell. Fortunately, this was her last trip. She places the guard on the prison bench.

On the first floor, it is Flash’ turn as he holds Sunset in his arms. He looks to his left; seeing the Crusaders and Maximals huddled against the wall while Twilight, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash helped. Aside from a small gray tone on their usual skin and hair color, their eyes look like they have cataracts, and their skin pickled despite the warm air. From what Flash is seeing, perhaps a little of their life energy is taken as well; Zipper comforts Dapplewood as opens his eyes for a little while then closes them again. He looks upstairs, finding seeing the others walk downstairs.

“Flash…” - Flash felt the first person he could possibly have loved wiggle a little. She opens her eyes a little. “Did we…?”

“Save your strength, Sunset.” Flash rubs her shoulder, coaxing her back to sleep.

The others look at the resting Sunset Shimmer. She awoke, that’s a silver lining. But she will require additional help to recover. And with the warden being a giant monster, a hospital will be out of the question.

“Anyone have a zap apple we can use like right now?” Applejack looks around, seeing her friends slowly turn her heads away.

“I…” Scootaloo tries to get up. “Have one…”

“Whoa, whoa. Take it easy, squirt!” Rainbow Dash wraps her arm underneath her drained ward.

“Looks like they all need zap apples.” Pinkie Pie bounced up and down. “I can make a zap apple cake and” - She stops, her hair deflating a little - “But that would take a while.”

"We can..." Diver slowly motions her hand to the outside world, her breath becoming raspy - "hold out at home... and... wait..."

"Maybe we should all leave." Everyone turns to Fluttershy. "Without our powers, how can we possibly stop Tirek?"

A ground bridge portal opens within the prison walls. Spike ran out of the spiral of energy, jumping into Twilight’s arms and gave her a good licking.

“I thought you were a goner!” Spike looks at his mistress with enlarged pupils. The question only made the embrace stronger with Twilight rubbing her cheek against his.

As the more “strong” of the bunch lifted their younger wards, Cosgrove, thinking about the talk Applejack had with him, turns a cloudy, green eye at the one person who visited his house to get information for her history report, the one person whom he forgave for framing Twilight.

“Apple Bloom.” - The Maximal gets her attention as she turns her head slowly, shifting her cloudy, amber eyes at him - “I was hoping to wait until the others graduate, but before anything goes south any further, I want to say:” - Cosgrove turned his body as much as he could, bringing him face to face with the Crusader, who tries to draw a smile, but before she could, he closes his eyes - “I don’t want to treat you like a trophy; you don’t have to be with me. Whatever makes you happy…" - He draws in a forced breath - "I’ll be happy too."

Before Apple Bloom could answer, Big Mac and Tex lifted her and Cosgrove respectively up to their feet.

“C’mon, boss.” Tex asks of Cosgrove. He tries to pull, but the smaller young man keeps steady as he staggers over to the young Apple. He weakly grabs her hand, touching his palm with hers. Apple Bloom watches as their touching hands are raised and her fingers spread with his conjoined fingers.

“Breathe deep, seek peace.”

Cosgrove lifts his limp brother and staggers towards the portal. Sweetie Belle let out a weak cooing sound before Rarity led her away to the portal. Big Mac feels his sister's shoulders relax, looking down in time to see her bow droop like a pair of ears. Why is it so hard for him to confess? Even then, their sense of honesty provided the answer for them. The apples moved in unison as they left the portal towards home.

With every law enforcement official either evacuating the town or helping the SWAT teams fight Tirek, it left the old man alone in his bars. In all those months, the old man played it smart. He rose to his full height and gripped the bars. He pulls them apart, puffing his cheeks as the effort strains his muscles. Soon, the bars gave and parted ways, giving him the freedom he needed. He turns his small, bald head to the window, seeing buildings explode and hearing people cry in fear. Looking at the carnage outside for a while, the old man grumbled before looking at the door and leave.

Outside, Estes Park’s own riot control team were throwing tear gas grenades like mad. That didn’t stop Tirek on his quest to Canterlot High. With a swing of his great, red arms he swatted the officers away. Shining Armor gritted his teeth as Clamp Jaw and Claire walked next to him with their own rifles. Lethal force is now authorized; with Blurr, Lion Tamer, Tremor, Granny Smith, Mr. Shy, and Hondo Flanks aimed their rifles at the approaching centaur. The grandfather Thunderfoot turns an aged eye to the submissive Mr. Shy holding his rifle shakily.

“Keep your rifle steady, soldier.” Tremor reprimanded as he lifted the tip of Mr. Shy’s rifle.

As with every shooting strategy, they waited to see the white of Tirek’s eyes. Well, the yellow pupils in his dark voided eyes. They pull the triggers, firing a barrage at the gigantic centaur. No bullet hole is seen, though they did bruise Tirek’s skin and fur. Claire unloads her rifle, taking out a bullet and squeezing it.

“Rubber bullets?” She turns a glare at Shining Armor. “Really?”

Tirek curls his lips as a red ball generates between his massive horns. Assuming the worst, the grown-ups take their immediate leave. The centaur rears on his second pair of hind legs, slamming his front hooves on the ground and releases a large blast of energy that destroys the vehicular barricade.

“You are powerless to stop me!” Tirek roared in delight as he stamped over the fallen vehicles.

The smoke is seen as far a distance as that of Crystal Prep. On the roof of his domain, Cogsworth watched the chaos unfold before him. Free from his other demons, the Shogun turns his head a little as Skystalker, Darksteel, and Blackarachnia land. His other fellow Predacons Caterina, Porcina, Squirk, and Rep join the four. Standing there like a badass is one thing, knowing how to execute it is another.

“So…” - Squirk sputters through his tentacled mouth as he shifts one of his eyes to his boss - “Are we going to stand here or…?”

Cogsworth shifts the boll weevil mask onto his head and jumps off the roof. The others look down to see their leader recover from the hard landing and walk forward towards the fire. Skystalker and Darksteel become beasts once more, propelling themselves off the roof. The three girls of the troop looked at the two remaining boys. Rep scratched the back of his head before turning his hands and lifting his shoulders. The five jumped down; whether they don’t want to be left out or something else is unclear, but one thing is for certain: Predacon or not, this is their home.

The effects of being drained took a deeper toll on the Sophomores and Elementary School boy. The Apple Family children were just at their home when Apple Bloom herself collapsed. Her sister rushes to her, lifting her head.

“I… Feel so tired… And so cold…” Apple Bloom choked as Big Mac lifts her up.

“Stay with us, sugar cube.” Applejack comforts her little sister as they reach their house. Winona wags her tail at first, her happiness also turns south at the sight of her youngest owner. Apple Bloom is brought to her room and tucked beneath the bed sheets. “We’ll get through this, Apple Bloom. Just you wait and see.”

Her little blossom, her little Crusader, drew a sickly smile and went to sleep. Big Mac held his peace as he watched his younger sibling pull up a chair and sat next to Apple Bloom. Big Mac would tell his active sister about the conversation he just heard. He would, but the time isn’t now. Winona whined, pulling herself up the bed and curling on her youngest owner’s lap.

Rainbow Dash searched the fridge of Scootaloo’s foster home for the rainbow colored apple. She shuffled through milk cartons, pizza boxes, McDonald’s burgers before at last, she claims her prize. With a victorious grin, she rushes to the foster home lobby.

“Got it! Let’s go, Sco-!” Rainbow found her biggest fan lying unconscious on a red velvet chair in the lobby. She takes her time to study the slumbering Sophomore. A memory wells up in her head; Scootaloo was still in preschool, lost and alone. Holding a teddy bear, she walks around her playground, sniffling at her loneliness. Then, Rainbow Dash almost trips on the toddler as she jogs around the playground. Whether it was anger, or curiosity, Scootaloo drops the toy and runs as she could to Rainbow Dash. Year after year, she chased Rainbow Dash over and over till one day near her ninth birthday, Scootaloo was able to run fast enough to touch her at arm's length.

Snapping into the now, Rainbow Dash wraps her dark blue vest around her ward. She stuffs the zap apple in one pocket, then reaches into the other pocket. Rainbow pulls out an object, kneeling down to place it in her right hand.

“Take a breather, Scootaloo.” Rainbow curls Scootaloo’s fingers, revealing a red, white and blue plastic strap as she releases her hand. Instinctively, Scootaloo grips the object as she heard Rainbows steps echo the lobby as she left the foster home.

Along the way to Great Valley Drive, Flash found the motorcycle standing there since its rider was shot. Placing Sunset in the sidecar, Flash and Tex pushed the vehicle towards the forested region away from school. As they reach the valley, one by one, Zipper, Diver, and Chelsey collapse near their houses. Tex moves away from the vehicle to tend to the fallen Maximals. Dapplewood was now walking on impulse when he trips on a rock and collapses. Flash takes notice, moving away to aid the younger child. Pressing his fingers on the boy’s throat for a while, Flash’ eyes widen as he places his hand over his mouth.

“Cosgrove, your brother, he’s-!” Flash finds Cosgrove at his front door, appearing to sleep. He carries the unconscious boy to his brother. Flash shuffles Cosgrove’s face, trying to wake him up to no avail. “C’mon, Cosgrove! Wake up! You think just getting sapped would knock you out?”

“Flash,” - The Rocker notices Sunset stirring in the sidecar. He approaches her, noticing a shaking finger pointing further down the road - “the cemetery. Take me...”

Flash can’t assume the worst, not when there is a giant centaur crushing their houses and stores. But it’s the best could do as he pushes the motorcycle Further down. He leaves it at the entrance, carrying Sunset up the hill. In some way, Flash imagined himself in being in a tragedy film, though fiction is becoming a reality. He stops, looking around before finding the tree. He walks over, gently resting her against the trunk of the tree. Sunset takes a slow breath, opening her beautiful eyes at the Rocker.

"You know, Flash," She draws as sarcastic a smile as she can in her weakened state, "there are others."

Flash sits down next to her, taking off his jacket and wrapping it around Sunset. "But none were as determined and beautiful as you."

As he watches her sleep so soundly, sadness wells up inside of him as he takes her head and holds her close to his body. He turns to the sound of an explosion, seeing a small burst of fire at a distance. With only Tex beside him, sadness became determination as the Rocker's eyes narrowed. If his birth town would be set ablaze, he would never let it do so in vain. He stands up, runs to the motorcycle, and drives towards the town square.

While it’s unlikely Tirek would make a stop there, all employees of a chemical plant were evacuating. Free from the toxic fumes, they strip off the safety suits as they ran to their cars or continued their escape on foot. Moving through the frightened herd was the old man from the jail cell, his expression evident that he doesn’t give a damn. The manager of the chemical plant sees the anomaly walking towards plant and rushes at him.

“Sir, you have to-!” He is smacked aside, sending his glasses flying from his face. He picks them up, putting them back on to see the old man entering the building. Pointless to stop him, the manager just left.

The old man reaches the depths of the evacuated building, stopping before a large canister. “Danger, wear safety equipment when handling.” the yellow sign reads. The man curls a lip before smashing his fist into the container. Toxic steam billows from the wounded piece of equipment, covering the ground of the factory in minutes. The old man stands there, seemingly unaffected by the toxins. In fact, he takes satisfaction as he inhales the fumes, his eyes becoming blue when he opens them. He slowly grows larger, the hair on his arms and legs fusing together into scales, and spines erupted through his backside.

Rainbow Dash rushes through the empty, demolished streets towards Great Valley Drive. She pats her pockets; the zap apple is still where it should be. She continues to run; no wings or motorcycle or ten speed available, it’ll take all the stamina she can muster. In her rush, her magenta eyes spot a pink object in the corner. It was Pinkie Pie, standing before the restaurant she worked for with a passion, smashed by a minivan. The once vocal and jovial party planner collapsed to her knees, her poofy hair deflated into on straight hairpiece.

“You maniacs!” Pinkie pounds her fist to the ground in anguish. “You smashed it up! Darn you! Darn you all to heck!”

Her friend a few paces behind her prepared to comfort her when a series of stomping noises got louder. Tirek continued his journey, completely ignorant of the pink and cyan girls that he drained their powers from. Pinkie’s lip twitched, a blue eye catching sight of a partially burned Berni pastry knife. Rainbow notices her friend reaching for the kitchen utensil.

“Pinkie…” Rainbow spoke in a worrying tone. Pinkie Pie grabs the knife, pushing her feet into a sprint. “Pinkie, no!”

With a vengeful scream, Pinkie Pie jumped onto a mailbox and vaulted at the red and black centaur. On his back, she stabs him repeatedly between his shoulders. Tirek roars in pain, reaching out and pulls the vengeful young woman to him. He shakes her violently, forcing her to release the knife. Pinkie spits at his face, prompting him to ready a punch. No powers left from her, one blow is all it takes to end her.

Rainbow’s attempt to rescue her friend got her work cut out for her as streams of fire burned Tirek’s left side. It was Skystalker and Darksteel, charging at the centaur and pouncing on him. Like what they have done to Cosgrove, they clawed Tirek, bit him, burned him. And with help from Cogsworth, Blackarachnia, Caterina, Porcina, Squirk, and Rep, the centaur was brought his knees before Skystalker and Darksteel enclosed him in a fiery inferno. The two cybernetic beasts circled the flames, expecting something to come out. They were right, but are too late to escape as Tirek grabbed their heads, smashed them together and tossed the two at Caterina, Porcina, Rep, and Squirk. Cogsworth kept firing his plasma cannons before being smashed multiple times on his chest, cutting him off from his source of oxygen. Blackarachnia grabs the fallen kitchen utensil, gives Tirek a few gashes on his arms and shoulders, flying away to prepare another attack. Tirek wisened up, and when she was at grabbing distance, he grabbed the Predacon and smashed her against a brick wall.

Pinkie and Rainbow watch Cogsworth let out his last breath. Tirek finally took notice of them, especially the pink girl who literally stabbed him in the back, and approached them. Rainbow assumed a battle pose, ready to take whatever punishment Tirek could deal with her. Between Tirek’s horns, another fireball begins to form. Rainbow takes out the zap apple; just one slice is needed to heal a bad wound after all. Nearby, Rarity watched from the Carousel Boutique as classical music plays.

“Rarity…” - The fashionista turns to her ailing sister in her bed, looking at Rarity with tired eyes - “Can you stay... for a while…?”

Rarity sat next to Sweetie Belle, holding her head close to her.

“Yes, Sweetie Belle. It will be over soon.” Rarity’s eyes began to flood, making her mascara smear on her cheeks. “It will be over soon.”

Opalescence hid in her kennel when a loud howl echoed the house. Outside, the howl is louder. Tirek stops his magic attack, stamping his forehooves to turn his torso around. Walking around the corner was what appears to be a charcoal black reptile. Eight meters tall, a taller giant than the six-meter tall centaur, the monster stomped his way towards his enemy, wagging his long, skinny tail. Rainbow and Pinkie can’t tell why, but there is some resemblance to the tall aged man they fought when they came back from their relic hunt.

A further distance away, Flash Sentry and Tex arrive just in time to see the two monsters sizing each other up. The last of the Maximals nudges Flash, pointing to a camera and microphone. Picking up the microphone, Flash brings it up to his face before giving a signal from Tex pressing the recording button on the camera.

“Hello, everyone?” Flash asks in a nervous tone as his transmission goes live. “My name is Flash Sentry. What you're about to see is a secret that we’ve been keeping for two years now.”

Tex brings the camera to the two monsters.

“Anyone who can see this, anyone who can keep our secret. Magic is real. And it can bring devastating results.” Flash pulls the camera back to him. “Many of my friends have passed out, possibly dead. And our city, Estes Park, is being destroyed. I’ll try to keep this rolling for as long as I can.”

Towered by the massive reptile, Tirek bared his teeth. In his time before becoming a warden, he did fight bigger people. With a crack of his knuckles, he accepted the challenge by gripping the monster’s clawed hands. He pushed with all his might, pushing the reptile a foot or two. The monster twists his neck and suplex’ Tirek into a nail salon. His backside covered in nail polish, Tirek slugs the animal in the jaw, shattering a few teeth. The monster easily recovered, spitting out blood as new teeth erupted from the gums. They then rush at each other, exchanging blow after blow before Tirek grabs the reptile and tosses him far behind him. Charging his energy ball, Tirek engulfs the monster in a fire. He starts to turn around when a scaly footsteps out of the flames. When Tirek rushes at him again, the monster grabs him by the horns and wrestles the centaur to the ground. He presses his foot on Tirek’s chest; Tirek choked at a force greater than a full grown elephant.

The magic that Tirek drained billowed from his mouth, seeping into the monster's nostrils. His eyes glowed again as another transformation began. He grew larger, becoming more reptilian as two more rows of bone white spines erupted from his back, side by side from the center row. Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie looked up as a large shadow looms over them, mouth agape. They know this monster from the media they watched as a kid, a popular icon the world has made sixty-two years ago, but to stand in front of him as a flesh and blood for the first time.

"He's... real....?" Rainbow Dash muttered, a good hint of fear in her voice as she gulped a little.

Now a staggering thirty meters tall, he took one step forward, leaving a large footprint with a crushed man inside. The chemical mixture of the oxygen he inhales and the radiation in his body made his spines turn blue. He opens his mouth, showing his glowing throat. He arches his head, then thrusts it forward, releasing a stream of fire. The roofs of the building went ablaze, quickly covering the sun in smoke. In both the general vicinity and in their homes far away, the Rainbooms, Flash, and Tex watched in horror as their city burned. The monster kept his indifference, answering so in a loud roar that shook the heavens before continuing on his rampage. No way are they able to stop him without their powers.

Looking at the blackening sky, Twilight hastened her work on making a new spectrometer. Despite not seeing the newcomer, she kept the assumption that if the beast has their magic, the spectrometer would be able to work. So hard at work that she didn’t pay attention to a piece of burning rubble falling down. She and Spike are sent flying, their equipment now destroyed. Spike whimpered as he got up, shaking his burned head before looking at the unconscious Twilight Sparkle.

“C’mon, Twilight! We have to get out of here!” Spike tries to wake her up, to no avail. He nudges her, licks her purple cheeks, even pulls her hair with his teeth. Nothing happening, his ears and tail droop as he huddles next to Twilight. The sky becoming darker by the minute, the dog could only silently pray. With the journal far enough away, and Sunset close to death, prayer is the only option left. God help the outcasts.

Endgame Part 3: Other Victories

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At the fringes of the city, the injured and powerless Sunset Shimmer watched as the city she and her friends protected for two years burn. She grabs her cell phone, wrist shaking as she dialed the number. A few buzzes and she got no response.

“Howdy, I’m not here at the moment, leave me a message.”

“Not here. Playing sports. Leave a message!”

“Shhhh!!!! … Pound and Pumpkin are asleep. Leave a message.”

“I’m sorry, deary. But I’m working on a commission for a client, but I will gladly listen to any messages.”

“Uhm. Hello. This is… I’m not available now.” Fluttershy squeaked before the message ended.

“Hello, this is Twilight Sparkle…”

Sunset’s vision began to blur, the darkening sky and the yellow-red fire mixing as she closed her eyes. Now she could see is darkness. As the seconds go by, the roar of the gigantic saurian and exploding buildings slowly ceased. This is the end of them. This is the day harmony died.

“Don’t ever give up, my daughter.”

The dark void is joined by a blue light, slowly getting larger and more humanoid with each step. Removing the void of darkness revealed to the light Sunset Shimmer wearing her usual clothes. The confused teen watched the light come closer. The light stops at her feet, the familiar blue skin, brown hair, and fuchsia eyes made Sunset stare in awe and further confusion. One last dream before she passes into the afterlife?

“Mother?” Sunset reaches out, expecting to not feel the touch of the spirit. Touching her hands with her mother’s, she felt the tickle sensation. She turns her body to the side, closing her eyes. “I… failed.”

“What makes you say that?” Asks Night Dancer, raising her brow.

“I got them into this mess. Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Cosgrove... They’re all gone… Just to keep a secret. ”

Night Dancer places her hand on her daughter’s shoulder.

“Remember the promise you said, ‘That you would make things right?’” Sunset looks up at her encouraging mother, recalling the memory she made when she said those exact words. “You’ve done more than enough to uphold that promise,” - They are joined by several more lights, each displaying a memory from her friends; Applejack promising to keep the family safe to her parents. Rarity making nice clothes to the poor. Fluttershy providing stray animals with food and shelter. Pinkie Pie providing entertainment to lost children. No matter the situation, they all have the same cause. - “and your friends have upheld their promises long ago.”

Sunset continues to look at each memory when she notices Night Dancer’s arms extend towards her.

“And now, let me uphold my promise to you. Let me help you one last time.”

Sunset looks at her mother once more. Night Dancer. Offering her help after all these years? And just a few days away from graduation no less. She tears up, wrapping her arms around Night Dancer as the memories wrapped around them, bringing light to the darkened world around them. Outside, that light is reflected upon Sunset’s body as it glowed a light red.

The gigantic beast continued his rampage, nearing Canterlot High when its small, menacing eyes take notice of a small red stream of light piercing the blackened sky. Spike continued to whine over the loss of Twilight when she too began to glow, shooting out a purple stream. Then came Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Cosgrove, Chelsey, Zipper, Diver, and Dapplewood. For the more active Rainbooms, they knew what this meant as their energies made the sky glow in various colors, combining into one entity: a bright blue alicorn. The monster below bellowed in both awe and confusion; of all beasts he fought over the decades, all the armies he destroyed, every civilization wiped out, the last thing he expected was a horse.

The spectral animal neighs before a stream of rainbow shot out of its horn. The beast watched as the multicolored ribbon wrapped around it. Beneath the amazing spectacle hid a painful experience; now it was the monster's turn to have his energy drained. When the rainbow vanished, the great beast could no longer be seen from far away. Cooling off from the bad experience, he rose up to a staggering six meters. Stil respectable, but a pipsqueak nonetheless. The now repto-mammal lets out an anguishing roar at the celestial equine when he spots another dot in the sky, this time, a golden bird.

The bird took flight around the city. Each flap of its wings releasing several fiery feathers, covering the city like it was winter again. The relatives and loved ones of the fallen watch their one final miracle shower upon them. Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Rarity felt stronger as their magic courses through their bodies. Patches of their bodies did have stars complementing their skin tones, as well as wearing garb like the ones they wore in the Battle of the Bands. At Great Valley Drive, this magic had the fallen Maximals glow like catching on fire. Cosgrove lifts his tired head, took a deep breath, and opened his eyes; they are feral, with the pupils in slits, but the sclera didn't turn black this time. He growls, standing up to see the spectacle happen as his brother and friends woke up and looked at the sky. The Predacons recovered as well, though only one remained to look at the general direction of the school.

"Big Mac," - Applejack rises from her chair, a tone of determination in her voice. - "watch over our little sister."

Much as the big lug didn't want to, Mac knew that his hometown needed their guardians for one more day. He steps aside, raising his arm at the door. As Applejack walks out, she takes out her cell phone and dials a number.

"Rainbow Dash, I need a lift."

The horse grew smaller and smaller before becoming human size. In fact, it became human with a stature like that of Principal Luna. Spike looked away from the expired Twilight to the fading miracle, noticing a smaller, yellow light coming towards the larger one. Sunset Shimmer has been revived into her Daydream form. She looks at the apparition, tears streaming beyond the red patch around her eyes. The spectral being smiled before fusing into her, causing yet another change. Her glowing horn became physical, the rays of light from her back became feathered, and her light pink dress became a red suitable for royalty, and armor wrapped around her midsection, forearms, and shins. With this new gift, Sunset closes her eyes.

“Thank you. Thank you so much.”

She looks down at the ground, seeing the canker that has been unleashed upon her home. She descends, slowing herself with each flap of her mighty wings. The beast curled his lips, hoping to intimidate her with his gnarled, bone-crunching teeth. Sunset's feet touch the ground, keeping her wings spread to make herself look bigger. The monster's thick brows furrowed and pupils narrowed. This was it, the fight to determine the fate of humanity and Equestria. Sunset's horn glows as she brought her fists together. As she pulled her left fist, a beam of light came out the other. Upon full extension, the weapon resembled a rapier; the length of her torso and as thin as a quarter, it made a soft hum as the wielder drew it to her face.

Even in a shrunken form, the monster still had his old tricks. His spiny back started to glow, giving his mouth a blue glow and his eyes a similar aura. He arches back and unleashes his dragon fire. Sunset quickly extends her arms, parting the blue flames. Safe at the cost of two vehicles, Sunset wasted no opportunity and strikes. She makes a downward strike, then an upper left diagonal, repeating the effort five times in a row. The monster staggered and looks to see the multiple cuts on his stomach region. An impressive display he must say if he could, but mere paper cuts to him as the wounds healed on their own. He grabs a car, tears it in half, and roars as he bopped them together like boxing gloves. Sunset ascends a few inches, dodging the beasts melee barrage as she circled around him as if she was in a roller derby. With each circle, she continues to slash at his arms, chest, legs, tail, neck, and head.

A distance away from the two, Spike had his tail between his legs as the violence ensues. One chunk of the makeshift weapon chipped a corner of the school, giving him every right to turn away. When he's at a safe distance, the dog hears a soft hum and turns his head around. His face is shined in a purple light, wagging his tail happily at seeing the familiar sight.

The monster wasn't new fighting fast foes; one of his fallen prey, a violet dragonfly capable of draining his life blood, flew at higher speeds than Sunset can. Timing it just right, he whacks his tail at her armored midriff and sends her flying. Sunset crashes into the HUB, groaning as her body slid down the cratered vehicle. She looks up to see the monster look down at her, baring his teeth as the inside of his gullet glowed.

Then a purple blast hit his left side, getting him to stagger a few feet before dissipating. The monster turns to the point of origin. It was Twilight, now Ponied Up, wings, horn, extended ponytail. Said part of the hair also had yellow, magenta, and regular violet stripes joining her usually dark violet, as are the tips of the primary feathers. The monster roared before charging at the former Crystal Prep student. Twilight took flight using her dark violet skin color and feathers to camouflage her as she soared the blackened sky. Making the assumption that she fled, the monster turned back to Sunset. He took one step before the four-eyed Alicorn anthrope swooped down and conked him with an energy mace. The monster roared, turning back to his assailant faster this time as he grabbed her foot and slammed her down.

He raises his free hand, unsheathing his claws that got blasted by a yellow beam. Before he could react, Twilight unleashed her magic, pushing him away with all her might. Sunset joined in, adding enough force send him crashing down into the house straight across from the school. The two pursed their lips before Twilight patted Sunset on the back.

“I’m glad you’re not dead.”

Sunset raised her finger, about to tell Twilight otherwise, but now isn’t the time. That combined effort won’t keep him down for long. They needed a plan, and they needed it now.

“We can try to tire him out.” Twilight pointed to the school. “I still need to get the device repaired.”

A thought stirs in the fire headed woman, “No, better idea. Remember what Flash went through one time?”

It took Twilight some time, but she got the idea. “We were lucky enough to get him out without consequence. Who knows what will happen this time?”

The rubble began to churn, getting their attention.

“Looks like we don’t have much of a choice.” Sunset made a small gulp.

The beast burst out of the debris with a loud growl. Noticing Twilight slowly levitating The HUB, a feat that felt like placing a Saint Bernard on her head, he growls. The burns on his hand healed as he balls up his hands. His patience is tested, slowly making each step as he saw Sunset bring herself between him and the statue once more. His eyebrows furrowed as he got closer, baring his saliva dripping fangs.

Sunset prepared her energy blade when her pony ears picked up something tearing. She looks to her left, finding such a tear of the space-time continuum. Coming out are Pinkie Pie, now with blue, orange, and yellow stripes on her hair, Rarity, her raven violet hair having blue and yellow stripes, and Fluttershy, now with a triad of Easter blues on her light pink hair. Of course, the monster was confused at to the nature of the pink one’s fourth wall breaking action.

“Sunset!” Pinkie embraces Sunset, her voice a little shaky. “I’m so happy you’re not dead.”

“Yeah, that’s great and all,” - Sunset notices the monster’s mouth turning blue - “But if we don’t move like about now, we will be.”

“Don’t worry.” Pinkie still keeps a happy face as she pats Sunset on the back. “The A-Bomb is about to drop.”

Sunset looked puzzled as the beast prepared its signature move. He stops to a faint sound, looking around slowly. The sound got louder and had more of a southern drawl. He looks up a little too late, getting dropped on by a pair of thick boots. He fell to his knees, adding more to the pain as the person who landed on him jumped off like a springboard. Applejack has come, tilting her stetson forward. Rainbow Dash swooped down soon after, showing off her Super Saiyan style hair and rainbow colored primary feathers.

“How’s that for an awesome comeback?” While hovering, Rainbow and Applejack gave each other a high five.

The monster began to growl, standing up on his aching legs. His teeth baring as the bruises on his shoulder faded quickly. Rainbow Dash closed her fists, generating a pair of sai. Pinkie Pie reached into her hair, pulling out a pair of energy nunchucks. Rarity pulled out a bo staff, holding it straight with both hands. Applejack generated a bull whip, giving the concrete she stood on a burn mark. Fluttershy drew out a long bow, the ends of the arrows having energized tips. Five girls, one monster. He accepts this challenge with a loud roar as the girls rushed at him.

The echo of the roar was loud enough to stir a pair of magenta eyes from their slumber. Scootaloo sat up, holding her head up with her hand.

“Ugh… I feel…” - Scootaloo raises her left arm, noticing her hand covered with a glove - “Weird.”

Looking st her arm, Scootaloo found herself to be draped in chain mail and blue cloth with her Crusader insignia at the center. Her wings were larger; not strong enough to fly easily, but still stronger than her diminutive appendages she had before, and had scythe-like blades tied to the primary feathers. At her side, she found a weapon tied to her side: a great sword with a fanning tip. Her right-hand pinches a little, her fingers feeling the red, white, and blue ribbon. Uncurling her extremities, Scoots' face beamed at the sight of a gold medal, one of Rainbow Dash' many medals. She holds the valuable close to her body before the moment is ruined by a ringtone.

"Scootaloo, you awake!?" Exclaims Sweetie Belle. On the other side of the line, the Crusader wore similar attire to Scootaloo, albeit her clothing over the chain mail is more of a faint gray color. Her horn is now longer, strapped to her side is her weapon: a battle ax.

"No kidding." Apple Bloom joins in the call. At the other side of the line, Apple Bloom’s cloth that draped over the armor was a red-pink like her now absent bow, and her weapon was a war hammer. Because of her hair being much longer than Scootaloo’s buzz cut and just slightly longer than Sweetie', a helmet couldn't fit her head. By some magic, it was braided instead, wrapping around her neck in a series of rings. Fitting for them to have armor like that of the Crusades after being called the Crusaders.

Apple Bloom and her closest friends caught site of a fiery explosion. Whatever monster their sisters both true and practical are fighting had them scowl.

“Care to let the Seniors have all the fun?” Scootaloo spreads her wings, ascending a few feet in the air and flying towards the fire.

Sweetie Belle’s horn glows, wrapping herself in an aura before disappearing. New to this, the younger sister of the famed fashionista could only do this in "leaps."

Apple Bloom turns around, bumping into her brother. It has only been a short while since he was asked to watch over her while Applejack was away. But, mule-headed AJ can be sometimes, it never helps to give a little bit of help. He steps aside once more. However, this time, Apple Bloom rushes to her window and gives a loud whistle. Big Boy, still unsaddled since the siege, galloped to the source of the sound. As he skids to a halt, the Crusader jumps out of the window, landing with a soft thump on the horse' bareback. Apple Bloom digs her heels at his side, getting him to move.

It is hard for Twilight to get the HUB repaired with all the explosions, yelling, and roaring. While magic cannot solve all things, it does serve her technological expertise justice as she repaired the busted computers. Now it was just hooking up the cables to the Sun Stone, a process that will take longer: one cable on the wrong part will overload the systems. She hears another hard thump, getting her to make a sharp turn and aiming a glowing fist at the same time a familiar plasma cannon aimed at her.

“Mind if I help?”

Rainbow Dash and Sunset, the fastest and second fastest flyers of the team, made a series of hit and run maneuvers that left the monster with gashes on his legs and holes in his chest. Applejack wrapped the energy bullwhip around his neck, pulling with all her might to keep him steady. Despite having melee weapons, Pinkie Pie still used her set of tricks; using disappearing acts of sprinkles and confetti to avoid getting stepped on before hitting him hard on his wounded areas. Rarity summoned a white diamond below her, using her levitation to spin herself like a top, rapidly thwacking her bo staff against the monster’s spines, pulling backing and done it again. Despite an uncertain feeling welling inside her, Fluttershy did as she must, and fired her arrows, each one digging into his thick hide.

The monster grew furious as it prepared one hidden trick. His spines sparked a little, then a series of lights pulsed across his charcoal black body. He arches his head and roars in tune to a large surge of energy that sent the Rainbooms flying. He huffed and puffed, his lips twitching as he turned to the leader of this little band, grabbing her by her yellow-orange throat. Staring her down with his red and yellow eyes, he grips her horn with his free hand, hearing her whine as the hardened spike of hair begin to break. Rainbow Dash recovered just a v-shaped shadow soared over her.

A massive flying creature, his body silhouette like a stealth fighter all the way to his small strigiform head, extends his spindly arms and hooks his claws into the monster’s wounds. He drags the beast away from the Rainbooms, each beat of his massive wings generating a strong wind. The monster bit down at the reptavian’s ankle, swinging his head to toss the animal several feet away. The flying animal lands on the roof of Canterlot High and screeches at the grounded reptile. The monster’s face pinched, ready to unleash his dragon fire when he suddenly felt smaller. His foot became lodged in a pothole that grew quickly, causing him to fall into the sewers.

Rarity felt a small tremor underneath her boots and shuffled back. Emerging from the asphalt was another reptilian being. The size of a Malayan tapir and just as heavily built, his body was laced with spikes, his arms squat with spatulate hands, his tail ending with a club. In addition to the crown of horns shooting out behind his skull, the two horns on his snout are longer and curved like a babirusa. The winged animal joined him, looking very slender with his wings folded back. When Rainbow Dash and Rarity shifted to another battle pose, the two should their left shoulders. The Maximal insignia changed once more; now it resembled an Styracosaurus showing off the spikes on its frill.

The peace is short; without warning, the monster erupted from the tiger trap, rushing at them while letting out a loud roar. When he is at point blank range of grabbing the Rainbooms, a yellow blur rushes at his side. This other animal, having a body style like the monster albeit more lightly built with a quilled tail and patches of osteoderms on his shoulders, hips, and back, sank his long teeth into the monster's throat. The beast grasped his opponent, leaving tooth marks as he pulled him away and tossed him towards the others.

As Luna would say, the fun is doubled as the Crusaders, Chelsey (now with a stature like that of Celestia with sloth-like claws underneath a kimono style feather dress), and Diver (her short and armored crocodilian body giving her the appearance of a Viking) joined them. As our heroes circled around him, the monster looks to his right, then to his left, then straight ahead. A league of fourteen against one monster. He curls his lips back and prepared to unleash his blue fire again.

Sunset drew out her sword and rushes at him, dodging a small stream of fire as she deals a slash across his stomach. Rainbow Dash turns her sai backward, running towards him before power sliding under his tail, puncturing his ankles. The monster prepared to retaliate against Pinkie when his left hand was caught by Applejack’s energy whip, stalling him long enough for Pinkie Pie and Rarity to deal a series of blows against his exposed and rapidly healing wounds. He yanks the farmer towards him, preparing to unleash his hot breath upon her when his skull gets punctured by Fluttershy’s energy arrows as she strafed around him.

Down the road, Flash and Tex kept to the corner of a building, getting a closer look at the fight deep within their fair city.

“Take a look, everyone!” Flash brings the microphone close to his mouth. “Look and hear those who fought so damn hard to keep this secret to their graves!” He brings microphone closer to the battle.

Sweetie Belle enchants her battle axe and throws it at the scaly monster, lodging it between his neck and left shoulder. Apple Bloom runs towards a recycling dumpster, vaulting off as she uses her war hammer to dig Sweetie’s ax even further into his flesh. Just as the monster pulled out the axe, Scootaloo launches into the air and digs her sword into the wound. The monster howls in both pain and protest when Cosgrove, Diver, and Dapplewood rammed at his right flank. They push him toward the left parking lot away from the statue before being cast aside with another thermonuclear pulse. Zipper soared the skies for long enough, divebombed the monster, lodging his hooks into his chest. The Sleipnir/Pterosaur hybrid was spun around, losing his grip before the monster dug his teeth into the left shoulder of his wings. Chelsey raised her claws and slaps the beast, leaving a couple of wounds at his side.

At the HUB, Twilight was about to leave when she turns around.

“Wait on my signal, okay?” She asks the person who helped her, Cogsworth.

“Got it.” He answers without looking back.

With a flap of her wings, Twilight ascends over the building, soaring over the rooftop to see the rest of her friends hounding the monster. The beast unleashes another thermonuclear pulse, sending them flying a few feet away. Dapplewood curls up into a ball, steering in a wide enough arc to smash a few houses as he reached the monster. The beast hunches forward, spreading his splayed feet as he waited for the spiked ball come to him. He spins around, thwacking Dapplewood with his thick tail. Scootaloo shuffled away just in time to avoid Dapplewood crashing into another car. The boy dinosaur uncurled himself, shaking his horned noggin as he tried to find which approaching monster is real or a hallucination.

After his third step on the demolished asphalt, his ears swivel to a sharp whistle. He twisted his massive torso and tiny head, shifting a blood red eye at Twilight. She spreads her wings as she curls her index finger several times. With a curl of his lips, the monster turns around, stepping on the grass with his curled toes. The others recover from the blast to see the monster approach their friend from Crystal Prep. Rainbow Dash scratches the ground to prepare for another strike when her magenta eyes spot Sunset showing her hand at her. Several times her height, the monster looks down at Twilight, a blue light shining through his orange teeth as he arches his neck back.

“Now!” Twilight shouts.

“Now!” Spike barks. Cogsworth presses a button, echoing the HUB with a loud hum.

Behind Twilight was a ground bridge portal, illuminating her back in an opal glow. With a flap of her massive wings, Twilight escapes with a gentle burn to her toes from the beasts flames. Where the attack was sent didn’t matter as the beast turned around to prepare another attack. Cogsworth, with his suit synced to the HUB, generates another bridge in front of the monster. Knowing what happened last time, they sought cover, embracing anything in case another shockwave. The monster looks up at Twilight, who gave him a smug look as she gave him a salute.

The monster felt the forces of the two portals pull him like two dogs with a rope. He has his muscular arms stretched, his tail pulled left and right, all the while keeping him still. The portals ever becoming unstable, the monster could only growl, feeling anguish once again. He roars, roaring loud like a child having a tantrum. The energies bounded like muscle tissue, encapsulating him in a large ball as bright as the sun. Our heroes shield their eyes as the ball flared so bright that it still looked like daylight. When the light begins to fade, they open them; nothing is left but a burn mark before the Wondercolt statue.

The battle is over, but yet the city burns. If anything, the costs of repairing the city will make Adagio burst a blood vessel or two. Fluttershy’s eyes catch a drip of rain slapping on the ground. She takes out one last arrow, firing it at the darkened sky. The cool, cleansing rain showered upon them, Pinkie Pie enjoying it by sticking out her tongue to collect the water. Flash Sentry and Tex approached the group of hybrids, the former turning the camera himself.

“This is Flash Sentry, signing off.” Flash ends the recording, giving the screen just static.

One of the televisions viewed is at Governor Thunder Hooves’ office. Like his associates around him, he had a completely dumbfounded look on his face. He sits on his desk, shuffling his fingers. One such associate looks at his boss.

“What do you want us to do?” He asks.

Thunder Hooves leans forward.

“Send for the Red Cross.” - He raises a finger when his secretary is about to ask about what happened - “We tell the news that this was an earthquake. This will be our little secret.”

The rain poured harder, dousing the flames. Our heroes looked at their destroyed environment. It’ll be a long time before they can get their city repaired again. Tex looked up at his anthropomorphic girlfriend. A lot of questions ran through his mind, the most important one being:

“So, how long will it take before you return to normal?”

The Rainbooms, Crusaders, and the Maximals widened their eyes. This was a last minute save courtesy of Night Dancer. They slowly turn their heads to the one person who had a super form like the ones they inhabit. Sunset lowered her shoulders, twirling her fingers.

“It… burns off eventually.” She answers.

Rarity looks at their desolate hometown, “So do we just go home?”

“Whatever home there is…” Rainbow Dash flapped her wings in a huff.

Cosgrove made the first step back to Great Valley Drive. Being animals anyhow, a destroyed home doesn’t make much sense to him. The other maximals joined him, echoing the roads with their heavy footsteps and roars. Cosgrove stops, twisting his upper torso to let out a bellow.

Spike trots over to Twilight, jumping into her arms and licking her face.

“See you guys tomorrow then?” She asks. Seeing the uneasy feeling in her friend’ face before they muttered their acknowledgments. With a shine of her horn, Twilight, and her faithful pet disappeared. Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie waved goodbye before they turned around and walked towards home. The Crusaders picked up their weapons, clashed them together, then joined with their closest people as they returned to their homes. Sunset looks at Flash Sentry. In all the rough times they’ve been through, all the screwups that happened, they smiled. Sunset turns around and walks away to her home.

The following days ahead will be tough. A town to repair, citizens to return, secrets to be kept. And above all, a graduation to celebrate.

Graduation: Seeds of the Future

View Online

From a television screen, the news channel buzzes again, motion graphics came and went, and the spotlight shines upon the anchorwoman once more. A video feed from a helicopter shows the destroyed Estes Park. To the public, their assumption would be an earthquake. To the citizens themselves, it was their own little secret. Relief and construction teams are hard at work repairing damaged buildings, replacing destroyed buildings, filling up the large pot holes, and towing destroyed cars.

"Just yesterday at three PM, a massive earthquake struck Estes Park. We aren't sure if this has to do with the SWAT siege that happened a few hours earlier, nor were we able to get a live feed, but witnesses say that it was one that should end all earthquakes. As we see, the destruction is tremendous and have left many without a home. Some have even volunteered to help Red Cross employees with temporary housing. But for some, it is already too late. Among the victims found, Tirek, warden of Tartarus Penitentiary, is confirmed killed in action. A funeral will soon commence, followed by Scorpan appointing himself. Relief teams hired by Dazzling Industries have done a great job in cleaning up the mess. It's expected that the town will be restored by the end of the week. That's what I have today. Olly?"

The TV screen switches to the newscaster in the outside world looking at the monitor.

"Thanks, April. In other-"

The screen turns off. Placing the remote down, Tremor leans back on the couch, his hands on his bony knees.

"And that's the way it is." He mutters before looking over the head rest. His bandaged grandchildren, now looking more human than a beast, were sleeping soundly. His oldest wrapped his arm around his younger brother, letting out a yawn before wrapping his head closer to his shrinking tail.

Further away, Zipper, Diver, and Chelsey slept in their homes as well, the last of whom also joined by Tex as he rests his head on her body. Further away still at the Carousel Boutique, Sweetie Belle held Opalescence like a teddy bear as she slept soundly in her bed. For Rarity, there was always one last dress to make, but she could sleep on that for now. Big Mac went inside the barn to grab a few buckets when he spots his sisters sleeping by a haystack; it's a surprise Big Boy didn't run off while they did. The eldest sibling forsook his chore and sat down next to them. Scootaloo slept on the chair in the foster home lobby, subconsciously holding her medal with an iron grip. Little did she know, Rainbow watches from the front door, giving her fan a warm smile before she closes the door. Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie slept in the first's apartment; Angel Bunny and Gummy snuggled on their laps. Sunset Shimmer, having some bruises and cuts of her own, is at the cemetery sitting by Night Dancer's final resting place. She looks to the journal, pleased that it wasn't damaged in any way. Not that she's ungrateful that Twilight was unavailable that day, being a rather unexpected turn of events as a whole, but there leaves the question that boils in her mind. She grabs her pen, flips to the next empty page of her book and writes,

Dear Princess Twilight,
Sorry that I haven't been writing to you at this time. We had... Problems. We're doing well now if you wish to ask. Our graduation is coming soon, and we couldn't be any more happy. And yet, I wonder, that if we leave our home, who would protect it, who would keep our little secret? The others can only hold out for so long in fewer numbers before being overrun. If it's the same to you, should we close the portal all together?
Your friend,
Sunset Shimmer.

She closes the book, raising part of her blue shirt to inspect the bandaged bullet wound. Luck appears to be on her side that time, any closer would have severed an artery, and who knows what the future would become if that happened. Before she could go on the computer to check the status of her friends, the journal flashes once more. Sunset opens it, raising a brow that the sender wasn't Twilight or her Equestrian Counterpart.

Dear Sunset Shimmer,
I haven't known much about what goes on in your world, but the teachings I have learned astound me. When I was tasked with finding new friends, what worried Twilight, my Twilight, is what company I would bring. It caused problems, but it turns out that she just needed faith. Friendship is based on trust; it's risky, but it can be beneficial to all of us. I'm sure your younger friends can hold out on their own; our Spike certainly did.
Hope we talk again,
Starlight Glimmer.

Starlight Glimmer? Must be a new face around in Equestria; Princess Twilight did mention a pony trying to disrupt the space-time continuum but never told them her name. From the sound of the response, this Starlight Glimmer must be Twilight's own student. Still, she has a point; it will be time to pass on the torch. She grabs her cell phone and dials the most logical suitor.

"Hi, I'm not available at the moment." Cosgrove's voice sounded through the phone. "If you leave a message, I'll get back to you."

After the beep, Sunset immediately replies, "Hey, Cosgrove. I'm guessing you're still asleep after yesterday. I just wanted to call to say... Thank you. Thank you for what you've done to help. If you never moved here, I have always thought of killing myself if I ever spent one more day at Hydia's home. You and your friends kept taking the bullet for me, yet you stayed by my side. There is something I want to know: was I ever pushing you too hard? Did I forget the safety of your brother for the sake of the mission? Please, just-"

Sunset hears a beep, following by shallow breathing. Cosgrove sat against the wall and delicately held his phone while coming up with an answer.

"It was these times that we've been pushed to our fullest, Sunset. We never expected this to happen, but it did. Have we made mistakes? Yes. Even you have made them since the Battle of the Bands. I know we made a promise, but we never counted on being happy. I didn't have to be nice to you. I could have easily turned a blind eye from you anytime. But that's the thing with 'easily,' it's never the right way. Perhaps we'll be in this city forever, guarding our home as we always have. I don't know if it was God's plan, but somehow, it's better this way. We're gluttons for punishment who deserve a good rest. Just don't take things too hard, okay?"

Sunset took these words to heart, nodding her head before she says, "Take care now."

"You too." Cosgrove hangs up the phone and curls back up. Before he goes back to sleep, he looks up a particular phone number, studying it closely before drifting to his slumber.

A long week came and went as the town was repaired once more. The rubble is cleared, burn marks washed away, wrecked cars towed to junkyards, and giant reptilian footprints long since covered with cement. In the silence, the echoes of cheers filled the air, getting the birds to find more quiet havens. This was it, the graduation of the Canterlot Class of Two Thousand-Sixteen. Among them, seven soon to be graduates, holding their diplomas, and their younger peers and relatives were bandaged top to bottom. Without any Zap Apples, it may take half the summer vacation for them to fully recuperate. Right now they are being handed out diplomas. Pinkie Pie grabbed her diploma before bounding away in excitement, very much the opposite of her stoic parents and siblings.

"Rainbow Dash," Celestia announced, her sister giving the diploma to Rainbow's left hand for her right hand was fractured in the fight with the monster.

"Rarity," Celestia announces next, the fashionista flicking her tassel with style after she received her just reward.

"Sunset Shimmer," She announces with a pause between the two words.

"Trixie Lula-"

"The Great and Powerful Trixie, if you please, ma'am." Trixie huffs; while she wasn't completely at fault, her actions at Camp Everfree did cost her the chance of the honor roll, thus her frustration. With a roll of her eyes, Trixie takes her reward anyway and sits on her chair.

"Twilight Sparkle," Celestia announces next, giving out a gentle smile as her sister hands her the diploma. Sitting back on the chair is short lived. For Twilight, having completed every course in Crystal Prep early with the highest grades possible, earned the honor to deliver the valedictorian speech and is called to the stage soon after the diplomas are handed out. Before a crowd of people, Twilight made an embarrassing cough; she really should have taken Sugar Coat's advice to be a public speaker.

“When I first came to Canterlot High for the Friendship Games, I had no intention of making friends. I always thought they were just a nuisance. No offense.” Twilight looks down, watching her friends flick their hands and groan. “But then I was shown something I have missed in my high school life. I felt… happy. Transferring here was the best decision I have made in my life. I loved being with my friends in Christmas, the adventures we had together. What I ask of those who are still here and to those who will come to this school. Take your time; don’t slack off, but don’t work too hard. High school is only fleeting, make the best of it.”

As she walked back to her seat, her relatives, her classmates and their relatives clapped. Shining Armor and Cadance, so proud of their little Sparkle, clapped the loudest. Principal Celestia takes the stand, positioning the microphone to her mouth.

“Thank you, Twilight Sparkle. Now, some of our Sophomores have volunteered to sing the graduation song. Please hold your applause until the end.

Such sophomores, the Crusaders, and the Maximals gathered on the stage. Out of all of them, only Dapplewood and Diver were in good enough condition to play instruments. The overweight Maximal begins with a few notes on the piano, then Dapplewood joins in with his saxophone. Zipper is the first to take the microphone.

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

Throughout the song, flashes of the very near future are brought forth. Twilight, unable to bring Spike to the dorms, lent him to Shining Armor being a backup should something go wrong. At the same time, Scootaloo hugs Rainbow Dash as she readied to enter the car. A distance away, after they packed her stuff. Sweetie Belle bawled as she hugged her sister, feeling the comfort of the graduate brushing her hair. Applejack finishes loading up the truck, looking at the home she and her family tended to since the day she was born. She enters the vehicle at the same time Sunset Shimmer entered the red Portia. As she pulls out the driveway, Sunset looks from a rear view mirror to the people that have brought her from the hell hole Hydia raised her in. She drives, watching her childhood friends grow smaller and smaller as she left Great Valley Drive, then out of Estes Park, then out of the Centennial State.

When the song ends, their relatives and peers gave them a round of applause. Celestia takes the stand one last time. She looks to her graduating class, the aching feeling in her heart of losing the best class she ever tended to so far. There will be others, especially the class two years away from now. She swallows her sadness, looking at the audience and spreads her robed arms.

“Ladies and Gentlemen. Boys and Girls of all ages. It brings me great pleasure to announce: The Class of Twenty-Sixteen!”

The graduates flung their caps in the air, filling the sky with tassels and hollers of victory. Applejack adds to this by flinging her stetson into the air. Their time in this high school is over. And they have a new adventure awaiting them.

It’s now the middle of August, and the pressure of vacancy is creeping for some. With Rarity gone, the apartment at the top of Carousel Boutique has since been renovated and her possessions returned to the fashionista’s family. Sweetie Belle took possession of some and made a memorial in a corner of her bedroom. Opalescence also felt miserable with the loss of her mistress as she curls up next to the memorial. Back at his home, Dapplewood watched the silent neighborhood. With no monsters to fight at the moment, he took the time to collect his memories. One became as clear as the sun; when he was four years old, he hid in Lion Tamer’s hedge mazes. His pursuer took so long that he just fell asleep. It was five minutes later when Sunset found the boy. Wanting to be in the shade as well, she lifted him up, resting his little head on her lap.

When the memory faded, Dapplewood lowered his head, about to weep over the departure of one of his closest friends since the day of his birth. Then he felt something wrap around him. He opens his eyes, finding a pair of red and yellow boots. He slowly followed the details from the red blossom at the top of the boots to a familiar face. Apple Bloom has done some wrong with her friends seven months back and is slowly making up for her crimes. Having overheard her sister's conversation with his brother, playing "the big sister" would be a great start, now that Sunset's gone. They both stand up, holding hands as they walked towards town. Amongst the places, they walk by a dance studio, where all but one danced in pairs, for he wasn't that keen with dancing on stage before a crowd of people.

Scootaloo, Diver, Chelsey, and Tex wasted no time in finding recruits. Among their choices, Rumble, Dinky, Indigo Blue, Snips, and Snails were their top candidates so far. They are lined up side by side, being inspected like Spitfire would inspect her classmates while on substitute duty. The two doofuses gave a chuckle, though what they’ll be doing is far from silly. Chelsey gave a snort, crossing her arms as she readied her oral syllabus. Scootaloo lifted the medal she wore around her neck, feeling determination as strong as Rainbow’s as she gripped the award tighter.

“You work with us,” - Chelsey steps forward, poking Rumble in the chest - “you go by our rules. One, you give us everything you got. Then, you give us more." - She then looks at Snips, using her height to emphasize the rules - "We make the rules. Understand?"

"Yes, Ma'am!" Snips and Snails, using their soldier experience from Trixie, stood straight, giving the tall Maximal a salute.

Cogsworth stood on the roof of Crystal Prep, watching his section of the town with vigilant eyes.

“One chapter is over, but the story goes on.” Cogsworth narrates as he notices Zipper’s shadow fly over him. His head follows the flying beast towards a more forested section of the town. Darksteel, on patrol at the time, crouches down to vault after the flying reptile. "Stand down, Darksteel. We will have no more conflicts. As long as we keep quiet."

Skystalker walks to him, turning his small head to his boss. "The possibilities of another monster attacking are five to one."

"Yes." - Cogsworth closes his eyes. - “ Like it or not, our journey is not over. We could only hope that whatever change happens, big or small, we’ll be there. We will make our own mark, our own story, our own conflicts. ”

Turtle Park, the place where it all started. Pigeons, doves, and geese scurried far away from the shaking trees as they took to the air. Emerging from the trees, the beastly Cosgrove climbs on the back of the stone softshell turtle. He lets out a small growl as he watches the landscape of the city. Rising on his hind legs, the Maximal lets out a roar that startles several more birds and small mammals. Hearing it from a distance, Chelsey and Diver donned their beasts modes and howl at the sky. Zipper lands on the bell tower of an old chapel, letting out another howl as he spreads his largest pair of wings. Dapplewood, despite having no vocals cords to howl from, made due with a loud whistle. His call answered over and over, Cosgrove lets out an even louder roar; a warning to those who dare do harm, even with their older peers far away.

They are not alone. Few but strong. This is their home. This is their kingdom. And God as their witness, they will defend it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1GqyE7GiRJ4

In the darkness, several bright square objects fly in and break up the negative space. It was the Rainbooms baby pictures, showing each of them being held in their parent's arms. The exception to this is Sunset Shimmer; the closest she has to a child photo is one photographed on the day of her birth before Hydia adopted her as per her wicked terms. As their preschool photos are displayed, so too are the baby pictures of the Crusaders and the Maximals. Among their preschool pictures, Cosgrove, still living in Ashley Valley at the time, is shown sneezing at his former classmates on accident. Come their kindergarten years, with photos taken by Photo Finish no less, they are shown in their own separate cliques, the exceptions being the group photos of the entirety of Great Valley Elementary. Other photos include one taken by Granny Smith of Big Mac literally lifting Cosgrove, wearing bike gear head to toe, on a younger Flea Biscuit and one of Sunset Shimmer embracing Night Dancer in the nick of time after she was adopted. This is then followed by newspaper snippets regarding Night Dancer's tragic accident, and the depression it caused to Sunset and the Maximals. Shortly after comes the graduation photos of then the Middle Schoolers before they joined their older peers and siblings at Canterlot High.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rf-G3Uf3FWo

Then came the year when things started getting weird. After the first set of school pictures came a few last minute photos shot by Photo Finish before she was under Roma's mind control spell. The remaining evidence of magic taking a hold comes from Sci-Twi's seismic readings and photos. Subsequent photos that Princess Twilight viewed after her first library was destroyed show them making snowmen, throwing snowballs, and honoring Night Dancer on Thanksgiving. As the snow melted the following Spring, the school prepares for its annual music concert when the Dazzlings enter the fray. We are then shown the tournament roster, gradually the number of contestants are marked off one by one before we come to the Rainbooms and the Dazzlings. The ending was a spectacle that was only photographed by one Sci-Twi as evidence. The fighting over, our heroes enjoy their victory in song as they prepare for summer vacation.

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

Following a few selfies of the Rainbooms, their younger peers, Aria, and Sonata after the Tsuchigumo attack in Camp Friendship, things seem to go back to normal with the Friendship Games in mind. They are wrong, when the space-time rift pops up, giving them an opportunity to look into a world populated by sapient dinosaurs. With Princess Twilight's help, they moved the rift to the lake in Sweet Apple Acres. Big Mac would take a photo of our heroes joined by the humanized version of the Gang of Seven. Later on, Sunset and Twilight would explore this world. Using a camera like the one used to capture wildlife, Sunset captures the behavior of these majestic creatures. But when they enter the Mysterious Beyond, danger is never too far from them; one of the photos show an Albertosaurus turning his body towards the two before they ran for their lives. In real time, they managed to escape using a large body of water for Bruiser Sharpteeth can only swim so much as a dog trying to get a toy.

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

Now comes the Friendship Games once more after four years. After months of training, twelve Wondercolts are ready for the big games. That is until one of the Shadowbolts is revealed to be their Twilight Sparkle. Her curiosity in tracking the source of magic has lead to damages that could have proven catastrophic. Some of Canterlot's structures such as the Wondercolt statue are damaged but are easily repaired in a few weeks. This marked the first time the Friendship Games ended in a tie; one in many wins for Crystal Prep, the first time for Canterlot High. But one thing became clear: magic is here and here to stay.

And the influence of magic has attracted other parties such as Victor Veloci and Scarab. But life is an arms race, as the Crusaders and Maximals have developed the ability to transform. We are then shown distasteful comments of material posted by the Crusaders under the guise of Anon-a-Miss. Such academic dishonesty has placed a mark on them as probation. Starting in January, we see footage from surveillance drones of the attack on Valentines Day, the escape on the big rig, the safaris between the three parties to hunt for magical relics, Cosgrove and Cogsworth's fight in the Morrison Basin, and the one final struggle between our heroes and antagonists. As the newly appointed warden of Tartarus, Scorpan has since destroyed these records in light of Governor Thunderhoove's orders. Other pictures include those of the Rainbooms, and a select few, in their stay at Camp Everfree.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iTp4Nu5k9gY

Which brings us to the present day. The school yearbook shows pictures of the graduation ceremony. Many are joyed, some so much that they are bawling. Soon after, footage taken from smartphones show the Rainbooms leaving the city they lived in for parts unknown. As the summer rolls on, the Crusaders and the Maximals undergo a small transformation. On one hand, it's their physical stature, appearing to be much taller than they once were; Chelsey appears to the same size as Cadence. Scootaloo now has a similar shaped head as Rainbow Dash, Sweetie Belle keeps the same head shape as in her Freshman year, with Apple Bloom appearing in the middle. Diver is still the overweight one, but not as much as Snips. Cosgrove, Zipper, and Tex have similar proportions as that of Sandal Wood, Micro Chips, and Big Mac respectively. Dapplewood still retains his normal size, but there is still a key development. Small patches of yellow-white hair dot the underside of his chin.

With new sizes come new clothes. Scootaloo wore a deep violet jacket with light blue chevrons as Sunset's, her skirt is lime green and her sneakers are blue. Sweetie Belle has similar attire as the clothes she wore, it's just Rarity's last gift before leaving for college. Like her sister, Apple Bloom wore a button up shirt but with pink shoulder straps instead of green, which didn't matter anyway as she wore a denim jacket over the shirt. Cosgrove no longer wears his usual violet shirt, but now a deep forest green t-shirt overlapped by a yellow cloak with black shoulder pads; his striped khaki's are easily tailored to fit his new stature. It is Zipper who wears the violet clothing, here a sweater with a red hood on top. Diver wore a blue shirt with a whale on the front with the words, "Living Large." Jeans aren't easy to find for a waistline that large, but they did find one nonetheless. Chelsey, still a fan of stretchy clothing, wore gray and beige clothes her sister donated to her family. Dapplewood kept to usual clothes: a torn up orange jacket overlying a white shirt with green shoulder pads alongside beige pants, boots, and above all, his sunglasses; new additions are a shark tooth necklace and gauntlets with metal buttons wrapping around them. Tex still wore his usual clothes, including his blue polka dotted scarf, but with one, odd, key inclusion: a green hat.

They look up at the sky from the soccer benches, thinking about the things to come. The future is not fixed, and their choices are their own. And yet, in a sick force of irony, they find that they have no choice at all. They are no longer children, but adults, men and women alike. All they can hope is that they can handle just as well without their older, more powerful peers. As the day fades into the night, a patch of cloud slowly dons a human form. A harp materializing beside her, she plays a lovely tune. The gentle breeze brushes the trees and bushes, giving peace to the land that has been the epicenter of a techno-magic war.

In the middle of one such night, the moon shined brightly over Estes Park. Unknown to its sleeping people, the moonlight seemed to move on its own, illuminating the insides of houses as it passes like a UFO ready to pick up cows. The direction the light was heading to was a large house ten blocks away from Canterlot High. Like their Equestrian counterparts, Celestia and Luna share one household, with each of their possessions labeled by their names all the way down to a cake labeled "Celestia." Luna continues her nightly rehabilitation of an injured possum she found in Camp Everfree when the moonlight shined through the windows. She looks at the window, standing up as if on command. Tiberius, as Luna calls the possum, watches his foster parent walk towards the window before she stands and stares at the moon like a moth to a spotlight. Though not as harmful as staring at the sun, looking at the moon for prolonged periods can be uncomfortable, yet Luna continues to look. Tiberius curls back as Luna turns around and goes out the door. Scurrying to the window, Tiberius notices Luna's shadow begin to wrap around her. She takes a deep breath when she is encased in a ball. In her bedroom, Celestia hears a gentle hum before the lights sparked out. She rises from her bed, turning on a flashlight to inspect the empty kitchen. The schoolmaster finds the generation of magic peak before shrinking out of her view. By the time Celestia looks out the window, the shadow ball begins to split.

When the ball disappears, the result shows a much taller Luna; appearing to rival her sister in height. Her skin is a much darker blue, almost pitch black. Her hair is now longer two shades of blue, but one cloudy mass that pulses back and forth, stars twinkling at the center. Another distinguishing feature is a pair of wings that soon fold against her sides. She opens her eyes, which now look predatory all the way down to her narrowed pupil. She begins to chuckle, showing her sharp teeth. Tiberius curls back as his foster parent lifts her head to cackle at the night sky.

Equestria Girls: The Rubicon

by Jongoji245

Predacons Rising Part 1: Metamorphosis

Predacons Rising Part 2: Leader of the Pack

Strike up the Sands

Relic Hunt Part 1: The Gauntlet/Maximal No More

Relic Hunt Part 2: The Phoenix Gate

P.O.V.

The Flash Sentry Paradox

Prometheus Unbound Part 1: Noble Savage

Prometheus Unbound Part 2: Dark Glass

Code of Harmony

Legend of Everfree (New Timeline) Part 1

Legend of Everfree (New Timeline) Part 2

Legend of Everfree (New Timeline) Part 3

Outside of Everfree Part 1: Journey of the Brave (New Timeline)

Outside of Everfree Part 2: Conversion

Endgame Part 1: When Legends Fall

Endgame Part 2: Death of the Family

Endgame Part 3: Other Victories

Graduation: Seeds of the Future