Early Days, Prologue: Finding the Key

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In my years of research over the heart, I have found one disturbing fact. There is darkness in every heart. No matter how much light is within each heart, no matter how pure, there is still darkness. Why? Why is it there? Why does darkness spawn the way it does? Why does it affect ponies so? I have spent year after year, searching for this answer, but still nothing. The very result is nothing more than a revelation. The revelation is this: one can not stop the darkness within, but must accept it. Yet, if you do, the darkness will corrupt you. So, is the darkness necessarily bad? Is it something more? Is it-

"Augh!" Celestia yelled as a magic aura surrounding the scroll caused it to close. "Enough! Blasted Starswirl..." she muttered to herself as she levitated the scroll onto a shelf, her hooves rubbing her face in despair. "Why are you so vague with everything you write?!"

Celestia let out a huff as she exited her private study. She had spent the last few hours looking over several old reports Starswirl the Bearded had once wrote. For years, the princess had looked over the many documents and books the wizard had wrote, but only a few reports he made had ever truly caught her eye. Granted, she was glad for the amount of knowledge the unicorn had given Equestria. However, it was his last reports that had always intrigued her. Unlike the rest of his writings, his last few reports were written on several small scrolls instead of his usual novelistic style writings. There, he detailed several encounters he had with what he called 'The Darkness and the Light'. What followed was what Celestia considered to be the most vaguest writings ever created. She looked at another scroll, her eyes shifting through the words.

My research has found something new. I believe the Light can respond to something called, 'The Key'. This 'Key' can change the very nature of both light and darkness. I find this to be odd, especially since 'The Key' seems to respond to the light more than darkness. Because of this, I believe that Equestria's future may have a need for this 'Key'.

-Starswirl, Report 5

"'The Key', hmm..." Celestia closed another scroll. "I wonder if it'll ever appear? No matter how much I've looked for it over the years, I've came up with nothing. Well, except for that former bearer...though, she still won't tell me anything." she hung her head as she stared at the floor. "And I was so sure Sunset Shimmer could've been a bearer of 'The Key'..." Celestia placed the scroll back on the shelf as she stopped staring at the floor. She paced around her room in a thinking pose before glancing at a large tapestry. There, it showed a mighty battle between two alicorns, their white and black figures clashing over the skies of Equestria. I keep getting stuck in the past recently. Maybe I need a vacation. That or some cake and coffee...

Despite her disgruntled yet depressed attitude, Celestia knew that she should take whatever Starswirl wrote very seriously. She knew that the unicorn had knowledge beyond even her at times. "I'll never understand some of those scrolls." she said to herself as she walked to her throne. As she sat down, she cricked her neck and let out a sigh. Concentrate on the present Celestia. That's what's important right now. Let's see...today was the beginning of the next semester tests for my school. I hope there is some good candidates today, the last batch definitely wasn't the best. Then again, nopony in the last few hundred years have been able to compare to Sunset Shimmer in terms of talent. I just hope the judges aren't too harsh... a yawn escaped her breath as she tried to think of something more positive. Hmmm...I could go for some cake right now. Perhaps a double layered-

"Good morning your highness." her secretary said as she entered the throne room. "I have some documents for you to sign."

Celestia stopped her cake filled fantasies and replied to her assistant. "Very well. Just make sure-"

Before Celestia could complete her sentence, a sound clipped through the sky like a thousand shotgun blasts. A resounding BOOM! blasted through the throne room, shaking the pillars of the castle. The rumbling shook the entire building top to bottom as Celestia almost fell out of her throne. Her secretary tumbled to the floor, documents scattering all over the floor. "What in the name of the Sun was that?!" Celestia yelped as she readjusted herself. Her eyes cast themselves to the nearby window, instantly seeing a rainbow colored wave blast across the skies. "A Sonic Rainboom?!"

"A Sonic Rainboom your highness? What is that?!" her secretary suddenly blurted.

"Well it's a-"

BOOM!

"Great Suns, what now?!" Celestia yelped as she turned back to the window. There, a large pillar of magic blasted out of one of the buildings. Celestia's mind instantly recognized the location. "That's...the School of Gifted Unicorns! But they should be currently doing the-oh no!" Celestia immediately spread her wings as a magic aura covered the window, quickly opening it. The guards and secretary watched as the princess took to the skies, quickly flying to the pillar of magic. Her wings gracefully rode the wind as she flew to the top of the school. As she looked down at the cause of the disturbance, her eyes widened at the sight. "This...this is-"

A few minutes ago...

Okay, I can do this! I feel great! I can pass this test! thought a certain purple unicorn filly. The thoughts belonged to one Twilight Sparkle and she is about to take her entrance exam into The School of Gifted Unicorns. She walked into the room as she kept telling herself over and over that she would pass the test. Today's the day. No mistakes Twilight! You can do this!

However, fate would have a different card in store for her today.

As the little filly approached the stage, she could feel the mountain of butterflies in her stomach. Her hooves trembled at the very sight of the judges in front of her. She could barely stare at them directly in fear that she would mess up before she even started. As a gulp went down her throat, she looked at what she would be using her magic on. The dragon egg. Or at least, she was pretty sure it was a dragon egg. Sure looks a bit different from the books... she thought as she looked it over. I wonder why it's colored white with red stripes? Hmm...guess it doesn't matter, it's a part of the test regardless of the color.

Quickly realizing she was about to second guess herself again, she shook her head in frustration. No! No! No! Focus Twilight! Remember...you can do this! All you have to do is pass this test and then you get into the school and then you meet the princess and get her approval and then...and then... her mouth almost began to drool at her next thought. The School of Gifted Unicorns library! Oooohhhh...I wanna see it so badly...

"Ahem! Are you ready?!" barked one of the judges, causing Twilight to hop in place.

"Um, er, uh...yes! My name is Twilight and I'm fine! Wait! I mean I'm uh-er, ready!" she yelped as she turned to the judges again, blinking several times. Though she didn't want to show it, her whole face had turned into a sweat factory as she stood there, shaking like a leaf.

"Very well. Begin."

After another gulp, she began the test. Her horn started to glow as her magic aura engulfed the egg, causing it to shake. The aura swallowed the egg whole as it slowly levitated off its little platform. It shook back and forth like it was alive. The container began to rumble as it floated in the air, ready to blow.

But then fate decided to interfere. The egg stopped shaking. Twilight's eyes widened in fear as she saw the egg not respond. What?! No no no no no no! Don't do that! Please hatch! Please-

BOOM!

What sounded like a resounding explosion suddenly ringing throughout the sky, the room shook like a rattle. As the noise blasted Twilight's ears, a resulting "EEEK!" screamed out of her mouth. Then, as if on cue, her eyes turned pure white as magic blasted out of body. The magic shot out like a pillar of light, tearing up the roof as it ran into the sky. As the magic continued to flow, it began to engulf the room, causing everything inside to transform. Her parents turned into a pair of plants and the judges tried to scream as the magic slowly morphed them as well. Even the egg suddenly hatched as the magic grabbed it with a blast of force.

Above the hole that the pillar of magic had created, Celestia stayed suspended in flight as she saw the most unusual sight. She saw a small purple filly unicorn filled with magic as the magic flew throughout the room. But that wasn't what astounded Celestia. What truly surprised her was a small thin aura that surrounded the filly. Only Celestia could see this tiny bubble around Twilight. The aura was like a layer of shining glitter, embracing itself over the young filly. The Light! That little filly has the Light in her! Not only that, I know that filly. It's Twilight Sparkle, the daughter of Twilight Velvet! Is that filly...is she capable of wielding 'The Key'?!

As her thought finished, she saw something more. Though it was for a brief second, an image of a key surrounded Twilight's mouth, only to soon disappear. But this was enough for the Princess of the Sun. She...she's the one! I've found the one I've been looking for!

Quickly realizing the situation, she slowly descended into the room, standing in front of the filly. As magic continued to burst out of the filly, the little pony's eyes slowly glanced at the princess. The princess's calm smile pierced through the filly's vision, causing the outburst of magic to quickly vanish. The filly fell to the ground and began to shiver all over.

"Twilight Sparkle." Celestia said calmly, her smile unchanging.

"I'm sorry, I-"

"You have a very special gift. I don't think I've ever come across a unicorn with your raw abilities."

"Huh?!" Twilight gasped, unable to process what her ears just heard.

"But you need to learn to tame these abilities through focused study."

"Huh?!"

"Twilight Sparkle," Celestia put her hoof to her chest. "I would like to make you my own personal protégé here at the school."

"HUH?!"

"Well?" Celestia leaned in with a smile. Please say yes, please say yes.

"YES!" Twilight screamed as she jumped for joy. As Celestia watched the filly jump into the air, her eyes quickly saw another sight.

"One other thing Twilight."

"There's more?!"

"Yes." Celestia pointed to Twilight's flank, the end now showing something very new.

"My cutie mark! YES! YES! YES! YES! YES! YES!" Twilight exclaimed as the little filly began bouncing around Celestia. Celestia could only chuckle as she watched the filly celebrate over the recent events. After a few minutes, Twilight ran over and hugged her happy parents as Celestia walked over to the other side of the room. There, her eyes widened at another sight.

"Judges!" she yelled, quickly pointing at the school staff. "This egg...where did you get it?!"

"Well your majesty, it's our usual dragon test egg and..." one judge stuttered.

"If that's the case, what am I looking at then?" Celestia replied, pointing at an entirely different creature. The creature that had been hatched was small, white and fuzzy. It's face had a small red nose and it's eyes looked like they were slightly closed. It had a single antennae on its head with a large red ball hanging on the end.

"I...don't know." the judge said with a gulp. "We were sure it was a dragon egg and...uh...what is that?!"

"Kupo!" the creature exclaimed, it's little paws stretched out, trying to reach out to Celestia.

"I..." Celestia blinked as she watched the creature just wave it's arms in the air. This creature...I know I've seen it somewhere in Starswirl's scrolls. Hmm...I'm guessing this little guy will be connected to Twilight and 'The Key' as well. That and it is adorable! Just look at it's little bat wings and-stop! Business now, cuteness later. Celestia looked at the judges again, "Don't worry about it, I'll figure out what to do with the little one. Just get some ponies in here to clean up this mess."

"Yes your majesty."

"And make sure when this test happens again, there is a proper egg!" she yelled. "The point of the egg is to determine whether the unicorn has true magic potential! That's why we use a dragon egg, those eggs don't hatch regularly like other eggs. You do not put some random egg in for this test!"

"Yes your majesty!" the judges squeaked. "We won't let it happen again!"

"Make sure that you don't." Celestia barked. As the judges began to leave, she let out a sigh. Celestia then looked back at Twilight as she continued to celebrate with her parents. Twilight Sparkle...I have a feeling you have a long journey ahead of you. Celestia closed her eyes as another sigh flew out of her mouth. She looked back up at the sky, knowing that a certain white sphere would later take the sun's place. I won't fail this time. I have failed so much...and yet, even if I can not wield 'The Key', I will make sure this filly gets the training to wield it.

Early Days, Part 1: Moving In, Moving Around

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As my travels continued to bring me northward, I encountered the most unusual set of creatures. They call themselves Moogles, and they are a truly unique bunch. These little guys are white furry beings with small bat-like wings. They also have big red noses and a small antennae on their head with a large red pom-pom on them. It's very hard to tell them all apart. But I will say one thing about all of them...they are some of the most kindest creatures I have ever met. They greet everypony with such kindness and respect. That and they love to say 'Kupo'.

-Starswirl, Report 47

"So, it's called a moogle. Huh. You really did know more than you let on Starswirl." Celestia said to herself as she put away another scroll in her private study. "Hmm...I still need to know how 'The Key' is summoned. I know she's a wielder of 'The Key', I just know it!"

It had been a few days since Celestia had accepted Twilight as her protégé. Since then, she had asked her new student to name the moogle. However, Celestia didn't expect that she her timing would cause Twilight to choose an unusual name for the moogle. Still thinking she had hatched a dragon, she named him Spike. (She was too busy being excited about her cutie mark that she didn't take a proper look at the creature.)

The filly later explained that every book she read about dragons always described them with razor sharp spikes on their backs and that was the first thing she thought of. In doing so, the moogle's name was now Spike, despite the fact that the little one had no 'spikes' on it. Celestia could only laugh at Twilight's naming choice. That and when Celestia said the name 'Spike', the little ball of fuzz immediately cheered, as if it knew that was what it wanted to be called. After that, she decided that the moogle would need to be put in the castle's nursery. Celestia felt that it would be necessary to take care of the moogle, believing the creature could become a great companion for Twilight in the future.

Blast it! thought Celestia, her hooves rubbing her face. I can't find the scroll! I know it's here somewhere...I guess it's hidden somewhere in his underground study or the other archives. I'll have to check there later, my new student is about to move into the castle. After putting up the last scroll, she quickly paced out of her study. Her head popped into the throne room, eyes shifting back and forth. "Has my new student arrived yet?"

"Not yet your highness." responded her secretary. "Perhaps she's still gathering her things?"

"Perhaps..." Celestia said as she entered the room. "Are the living conditions for my protégé ready?"

"Yes, we have a full room ready and everything. Also, about your usual documents..."

"No." Celestia flashed her palm. "Tell the nobles they can wait a day before I sign their ridiculous petitions and requests. I have found something very important and their petty needs can wait."

"Um...yes your majesty." her secretary said with a gulp. "But uh..."

Celestia went over and patted her secretary's back. "Don't worry, we'll get everything fixed later, alright? If those nobles don't have any patient bones in their bodies, I'll just make them get some. Now, what is the word on my niece Cadance?"

"She is reported to still be in Cloudsdale your majesty. She will be returning one week from now."

"Good. And Blueblood?"

"Still on vacation...again."

"That's fine." Celestia said as she tapped her crown, readjusting it on her head. "Very well, if that is the case...I think some research in the Canterlot Archives should come next. I need to make sure I have all the facts before my student arrives."

"Okay." the secretary replied with a small but worried smile. "But I think you should-"

"Raven?"

"Yes your majesty?"

"Don't Panic. That's my job. That and drinking half of Canterlot's coffee and eating it's cake."

"Okay..." the secretary squeaked as she tried to shrink into the floor. Celestia patted her secretary with her wing, calming the mare.

A few minutes later, Celestia cricked her neck and she proceeded out of her throne room. Raven followed her posthaste, her little legs shifting with a slight shake. "Now, do we know when she will arrive?"

"No. We expect she will arrive shortly."

"Very well...get some of the papers ready for later. I still need to take a look at the Canterlot Archives." Celestia said as she took another turn. "I believe I can find what I'm looking for before she gets here. Hopefully I can find some extra notes over Starswirl and his messy idiotic-"

"Your majesty!" interrupted a guard as he ran down the hallway.

"Yes?"

"Your new protégé, Twilight Sparkle is here!"

Or perhaps I need more cake before I find what I'm looking for. Celestia thought as she cleared her throat and turned around. "Excellent. Bring her in immediately." Celestia said with a clap of her hooves. The alicorn quickly turned around and proceeded back to her throne. Just my luck. I guess Luna was right back then. Timing is everything.

It wasn't long till her eyes blinked as she watched the tiny purple filly enter the throne room with two other unicorns. She could tell the little filly and her parents were overwhelmed by their shaking hooves. Celestia spread her wings while equipping a calm kind expression. "Greetings Night Light, Twilight Velvet and Twilight Sparkle."

The three quickly bowed down, causing Celestia to tap her hooves. "Arise you three, we have much to discuss."

"Yes your majesty." Night Light squeaked, his hooves trembling along with the rest of his family.

"Now now, don't be scared. I have brought you three here for a very specific purpose." Celestia approached the young filly, her calm expression unchanging. "As I said earlier this week, I wish to have young Twilight Sparkle as my protégé. I know that when I said that we had not filled out the paperwork or fully prepared the situation, but..." She stared deeply at the filly, watching Twilight's eyes light up from her words. Celestia looked back at the parents and said, "Your daughter possesses very special abilities that no regular unicorn has. The magic potential within her is untapped and she needs to learn how to understand and control it."

"And...you think you can help her with that? That's why you want her as your student?"

"Indeed I do." Celesita nodded. "I believe Twilight has the potential to go beyond any ordinary unicorn, and as such...she needs somepony to teach her how to control these abilities."

Twilight's parents looked at each other in confusion while Twilight just stood there, admiring Celestia's intimidating presence. Night Light looked back at the princess with concern. "I...don't think we fully understand."

"That's understandable. Let us just say...I saw something more in Twilight's destiny than her cutie mark." Celestia waved her hoof. "I apologize for being vague. However, will you allow your daughter to be my protégé?"

Her parents looked back down at Twilight, who gave them a happy nod. "Well....she said that's what she wants. She'll have to live here, won't she?"

Celestia nodded again. "Yes. I know that must be hard for you but...will you please accept these terms?"

They looked at their daughter one more time only to see big sad puppy dog eyes. Twilight's lip trembled as she tried to look as sad as possible. "Pwease?"

The duo gave their daughter two giant grins. "Okay Twilight...we'll let you stay."

"YAY!" Twilight exclaimed as she began jumping around again. "I get to be Princess Celestia's student! I get to be her student! I get to see the library and the-"

The other three began to laugh as Twilight continued to hop around, ranting about all the books she would get to read. After a few minutes, she finally calmed down and the four began to talk about living arrangements. It wasn't long till they went to Twilight's new room and unpacked Twilight's things. Her parents later told Princess Celestia they would bring a few more things tomorrow. As her parents began to leave, Twilight waved goodbye with her usual goofy grin.

"Don't worry my new student, you are allowed to see your parents anytime you wish." Celestia said as she patted Twilight's head.

"I know...I'm just gonna miss my room." Twilight said as she began to stare at the floor, a small tear slowly forming. "And them..."

"I wouldn't worry to much Twilight." Celestia's wing descended onto the filly. "Your parents are going to bring a few more of your things to your new room here later. We'll have it looking like your old place in no time!"

"I know...thank you princess!" Twilight slightly cheered, her face wearing a sad smile.

Seeing the sad smile, Celestia leaned down and hugged the little filly. "Don't worry Twilight, everything will be fine. I promise. Your parents can come over anytime."

"I know. Thank you princess."

Celestia then leaned back and cocked her eyebrow. "Now, I have a surprise for you my student."

"You do?!"

"Yes. Bring it all in!" Celestia said with a clap. Several guards came in with a tray of books, scrolls and a small carriage. Twilight's jaw dropped as she saw the books were quickly put on the room's new bookshelf. "Like what you see?" Twilight could only nod as her jaw stayed down. "Good. While you are under my tutelage, you will need to read all of these." Celestia replied with a chuckle. She could tell her new student was going to have a hayday with her new reading material. "Also, there's one more thing..."

"There's more?!" Twilight gasped.

"Yes." Celestia pointed at the carriage and waved Twilight to come over. "You will also be taking care of him."

"Spike!" Twilight exclaimed as she saw the baby moogle. The white furred bear-like creature let out a small 'Kupo!' as he flailed his tiny arms upward.

"That's right. Because you hatched him, I would like you to take care of him."

"Take care of...really?!" Twilight pointed at herself in shock. "Are you sure?!"

"Yes. I believe that you two are connected. Now..." Celestia tickled the baby moogle with her hoof. "He needs love, care, and attention. And...I have faith you can do it."

"But, I don't even know what he is." It was true, Twilight had never seen a creature like Spike before.

"He is a creature called a moogle."

"A moogle? I've never heard of a creature like that before."

"It's definitely a rare species but...that's not a issue here. What takes precedence is that I want you to take care of him. I believe he will help you in your studies and help you understand responsibilities." Celestia patted Twilight's head again, trying to ease her worries. "Don't worry my new student, Spike shouldn't be too hard to take care of."

"Well..." Twilight stared at the floor for a minute, her hooves scratching the rug. She...she thinks I can do it. Me. Twilight stared back at the moogle, it's paws grabbing the air. What do I do if I fail? What do I do if I mess up?! What do I...what do-

Twilight's mind came to a complete stop as soon as she look back at her new mentor's face. The radiant smile the ruler was showing took all her fear away. That smile...it made any feelings of dread or despair just melt away while she stared at the alicorn. After a few seconds, she looked at the alicorn with an expression of pure confidence. "Okay, I'll do it!"

"That's the spirit!" Celestia said with a pat on the back, her face beaming. "That's what I like to hear Twilight! Now, I have one more thing to tell you."

"There's even more?!" Twilight's jaw began to drop again. "Princess, I don't know if I can take much more..."

"It is about how this arrangement will work."

"What do you mean?"

Celestia did a slight cough before continuing. "Well...as I said before, you are my protégé now. Because of this, your lessons will be split."

"Split?"

"Yes." Celestia nodded again. "Every week, you will go to my school regularly. However, once a week you will have lesson from me as well."

"So...I just go to school but I also get lessons from you?!" Twilight asked, her eyes shining from the idea.

"That's correct." Celestia beamed her usual smile as she placed one of her wings over Twilight. "Now, I have one more thing to tell you."

"Wow...there's still more?!"

"I am sorry to say my new student, but this is the most important thing of all." Celestia's smile grew wider as she began to lean down.

"Um...okay. What is it?"

Celestia bent down and hugged her new student. "Thank you Twilight. Thank you so much for being my student." Twilight couldn't say a word from the hug. She could only sit there in awe. Finally, she returned the hug with a smile. As Celestia felt the returning hug, she could only think of one thing, Thank you Twilight. I will do everything I can to help you and your destiny.

In another part of Equestria...

Four ponies stood on a certain small cliff. Two were fully grown ponies, both with dark black coats on. The one in front descended it's hoof down and picked up one of the dandelions on the ground, it's hoof picking at the flower's many florets. The second adult pony stood still like a statue, a stiff stone like expression hidden under the pony's hood. The third and fourth were two fillies who were also wearing jet black coats. The four looked at the soon coming sunset and then looked down at the ground, the dandelions under them swaying in the wind. A small breath exhaled out of the front pony's mouth as the last picked floret flew away to the wind.

"This world...this world is full of light."

"What do you mean?" said the third pony with a confused expression. The other three stood silent, though the other filly stood behind the rest, her body shaking all over.

After a few moments, the pony in front did a slight cough before speaking. "It means that this world is nothing but a giant contradiction. It is something that...shouldn't exist."

"Why?"

"Because..." the pony threw away the dandelion's stem, a small chuckle sounded from the pony's mouth. "The light is nothing compared to the darkness. It is an entity that has no right to exist while darkness lives."

"So, is that why we worship the darkness?"

"No." The pony turned and patted the tiny pony's head. "Darkness is the reason we exist. It's existence...gives us meaning. It is something that is always there and will be there even after we are gone. Darkness is...everything." The pony then bent down, their faces almost touching each other. "And that is why we must drown this world in darkness. We must get rid of the ponies that cling to the Light."

A malicious, violent, spiteful, malevolent, cruel smile appeared on the pony's face. The very air around the four was drowned in a deep, thick cavernous air of darkness. The tiniest pony bent down to the ground as it shivered from the very sight of the darkness.

"And Equestria shall be the first to fall to the darkness."

Early Days, Part 2: What is the Key?

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'The Key'. Of what I have studied, it seems to be an object or maybe a weapon that holds endless potential. I believe it to be an object that can change the very nature of the darkness. Even now, I still don't fully understand the darkness but I do know this: 'The Key' will show itself when the darkness appears. That and one more feature, 'The Key' seems to be connected to one certain thing. The heart. If I am correct, the heart is 'The Key's' true source of power. Perhaps it is the heart that allows 'The Key' to be wielded in the first place.

-Starswirl, Report 37

"The heart..." Celestia said to herself as she rubbed her eyes. "Hmm...so Twilight will need to use her heart to summon 'The Key'." Celestia put the scroll down with a yawn. "Okay, enough studying for now Celestia. I need a stiff triple chocolate fudge cake...and some blasted coffee."

Celestia stormed out of her private study, bags sagging from her eyes. It had been a week since she had accepted Twilight as her student and she had barely seen her protégé since then. She was happy that her new student was enthusiastic about going to the School of Gifted Unicorns but she also wanted to begin her training to summon and wield 'The Key'. She also wished that there was another name for it.

"Good morning your highness." her secretary remarked as Celestia entered the throne room.

"Good morning..." Celestia yawned, her hoof almost touching her mouth. "What is today's schedule?"

"Well..." a small magic aura surrounded a pile of papers that flew in front of Celestia's face. "For starters, these need to be signed and-"

"Not happening. I'm not signing a single thing today." Celestia interrupted. "Today is my first day with my new protégé secretary. I told you yesterday that these papers need to be signed later."

"But your majesty-"

"No. Tell me secretary, is there anything truly important in those papers? Are they all petitions for random projects created by the nobles? Or maybe some request over some ridiculous holiday celebrating the rich?"

"Well..." the secretary dug her hoof into the floor, "No...maybe one or two important things though."

"That's more than enough incentive for me to NOT do those papers today secretary. I need to start my protégé's training and that takes priority."

"Okay...I'll tell them no today." the secretary said while hanging her head. Celestia walked up and placed her hoof on her shoulder.

"It will be fine. They need to understand that I'm not always there to wipe their whiny flanks." Celestia chuckled. "Everything will work out, you'll see. In fact, I want you to rearrange the papers in terms of priority. If there is something that truly needs looking at today, I will look at it later, okay?"

Seeing Celestia's shining smile, her secretary soon returned a grin. "Okay your majesty. I'll get right on it."

"Good. Now..." Celestia began to yawn as she started to leave the throne room. "Time for breakfast. My stomach and sweet tooth need to be fed."

Her secretary chuckled at the comment, "Understood your majesty. Shall I have the guards summon Twilight Sparkle to the dining room?"

"Yes." Celestia nodded. "Thank you."

"Of course your highness."

A certain little filly began to stretch her hooves as her head popped out of the covers. "Aaaahhhh! What a good night's sleep!" exclaimed Twilight as her hooves cricked in response. "Mmm...there we go."

Her hoof waved in front of her mouth as a yawn escaped from within. Her tiny filly body rolled off the bed as her eyelids blinked several times. She then walked up to the small crib in her room and looked inside. "Spike, are you there?"

The small moogle was sound asleep, his little pom-pom waving back and forth. "Ah...still asleep." A big goofy grin plastered itself on Twilight's face. "Hee hee, he's so cute when he's asleep. He looks like a little fuzzy doll I could just hug!" She looked back at her saddlebag sitting by her bed, knowing what was inside it. Just like Smartypants...

"Ku...po..." Spike said in his sleep, his minuscule mouth barely opening. "Ku...po..."

"Hee hee, I guess I should let you sleep a little more then." Twilight said as she got down from the crib. "Now, what was the schedule today? Did I make sure to make a to-do list for it? And the list to check that list?"

Twilight walked over to a small desk that was already filled with papers despite it still being her first week staying there. Her tiny body hopped into a small chair as she stretched one last time. An aura quickly covered the pile of papers as they flew through the area, slowly shuffling themselves like cards. Her eyes shifted left and right as the papers levitated before her. Hmm...no. This is my list for yesterday. This is my list for two days from now. This is...no, this is a list to check tomorrow's list by checking this list yesterday. Hmm...did I forget to make one? Her eyes widened at the very thought. Her body shook in her chair, slowly making a small rattling noise. Oh no! I couldn't have! I must have made a list somewhere! I mean, what if Princess Celestia finds out that I'm not always that prepared?! What if not finding that list means I can no longer be her student?! What if I have to go back to-wait a minute, here it is! A sigh of relief soon followed as she picked up the next paper. And here's today's to-do list...good. Now let's see here...WHAT?! My first day of training with Princess Celestia is today?!

Twilight began to bite at her hooves as she put the paper down. "Oh no! What if I'm not ready?! What if I fail on something today?! What if-"

"Kupo?" said a little voice, interrupting Twilight's thoughts.

"Huh?" she said as she looked up. There, she found her small little friend staring at her with barely opened eyes. "Oh! Did I wake you up Spike? I'm sorry."

"Kupo kupo."

"I still don't know what that means."

"Kupo?"

"Uh...don't worry about it." Twilight replied, now realizing that she had calmed down. "Okay, what was I doing again?"

"Kupo."

"Yeah. I need to-"

Before Twilight could finish, a series of knocks tapped at her door. Twilight blinked and looked at the door with a twinge of confusion. "Yes? Who is it?"

"Twilight Sparkle?" said a stallion's very stotic voice.

"That's me." Twilight said as her magic aura surrounded the doorknob, slowly tilting it. As the door opened, her voice trembled at the serious voice. "Is something wrong?"

"Good morning. Princess Celestia has asked for you to meet her for breakfast. Please gather your things."

"Um...okay." Twilight squeaked. "Just uh...give me a minute."

"Take your time."

Twilight scurried through the room, grabbing her saddlebags and filled them with her favorite books. As she began to head to the door, her ears picked up a certain sound.

"Kupo!"

It wasn't long till Celestia found herself in the dining room, her body placed in her usual chair. A small bib covered her neck as she licked her lips at the sight the chef brought before her. Today's special was a double sized Red Velvet Cake with a side of dark roasted coffee. Drool flooded from her mouth as she readied herself to dig in. That is, before a certain white creature appeared beside the cake.

"Kupo!"

"Hmm? Oh! Good morning Spike." Celestia chimed in as she sucked in her drool. "Are you eyeing my morning cake? I suggest you don't try it little one. I suspect your little body won't get along very well with this much sugar."

"Kupo?"

"Sorry Princess Celestia!" Twilight said as an aura covered Spike and lifted him away. "Spike's full of energy this morning and I was trying to get here early and-"

"It's fine Twilight. Would you like some breakfast?"

"Um, er uh...." Twilight's eyes darted around the room as she tried to respond. "Yes?"

"Then take a seat." Celestia said as she watched the filly slowly approach a chair with Spike on her back. She blinked as she saw Twilight sit there, her whole body trembling in fear. "Twilight, I don't know why you are afraid but...you don't need to be."

"But Spike interrupted your breakfast and-"

"It's fine Twilight. I hadn't even started and I called for you." Celestia took the first bite as she continued. "There is no need to be afraid Twilight."

"Oh...right. Sorry." Twilight hung her head.

"Don't apologize. I understand you're nervous, this being our first day of training and all." Another bite happened as Twilight's nerves calmed down. She could only sit there as she watched Celestia dig into the cake, her face filled with joy as the sugary treat quickly disappeared. Her head slightly shifted as another pony came up to the table. "Ah, you're here! Twilight, he will take your order."

"Oh. Uh...er..." Twilight fiddled with her hooves as the stallion stood there, waiting for an answer. She looked back at the princess with puppy dog eyes. "Um...could you tell me what I should order princess?"

Celestia could only giggle at the shaking filly. "Why don't you just order some pancakes? Does that sound good?"

"Um...okay." Twilight looked back at the chef and gulped. "Some pancakes please. Plenty of maple syrup and whip cream."

"Right away!" the chef said with a salute. Twilight and Spike watched the chef quickly shuffle back into kitchen, a smile shining on his face.

"See Twilight, that wasn't so hard, was it?"

"No...maybe. I don't know." Twilight squeaked, her eyes shifting, trying to not look at Princess Celestia. "Sorry."

"You don't need to apologize Twilight, it's just you choosing what to have for breakfast." Celestia said with one last cake-filled gulp. "Now...as you are probably wondering, today is the day your training with me starts. Make no mistake, you will still attend the school. However, as I said before, you will also be training once a week with me."

"Um...okay. But are sure I should be doing that?"

"Yes. You are my personal protégé Twilight." Celestia said with a nod. "That fact alone makes this situation possible."

"Okay...but-"

"No buts Twilight. You are-ah! Your pancakes are here!" Celestia exclaimed as the chef returned. A small aura surrounded a plate filled with fluffy brown saucers. Twilight's mouth began to salivate from the very sight of the food. Celestia began to chuckle as Twilight just stared at the delicious platter in front of her. That is, until Spike suddenly jumped at the plate at blinding speed. What followed was a story for another day.

Some time later in Celestia's personal study...

"First off Twilight," Celestia said as she sat down in one of the chairs, signaling Twilight to sit as well. Spike was in a small crib in the room, his eyes already closed for a nap. "As I've said before, you are now my protégé. Because of this, certain things will now be expected of you and I will want you to fulfill those goals."

"Okay..." Twilight replied with a gulp. "But, are you really sure I can do that?"

"I do." Celestia nodded. "I have been around for a very long time Twilight and I know what I see. What I see within you Twilight is true hidden talent." Twilight began to blush as Celestia continued. "I can tell that you are a pony who loves to seek knowledge and I can definitely tell you are a pony that will always put every bit of effort you can muster into everything you do."

"Well I..."

Celestia raised her hoof, commanding Twilight to stop. "Hold on little one, I am merely stating the facts. Don't think for a second that I've made a mistake here, I know what I see within you Twilight."

"What...what do you see?"

"I see a pony with endless potential. A pony...that can understand what magic truly means in this world."

"What magic...truly means?" Twilight asked, her head tilted in confusion.

"It is something that will be explained later." Celestia said as she patted Twilight's shoulder. "Now, I don't want what I just said to you to go to your head. I know that you are not perfect and you will make mistakes. I'm the exact same way. However, when there are times where you fail, I will help you until you succeed. I will work with you just like you will work with me. I do not expect perfection from you, Twilight Sparkle. Rather, I seek perseverance from you."

"I...I..." Twilight stuttered, her mouth trying to find the words. Her eyes widened as her ears continued to hear what Celestia was saying.

Celestia on the other hoof could only chuckle at Twilight's expressions. "Now Twilight, we are going to go over your first lesson."

"Um..." Twilight's brain tried to put itself back together as she watched Celestia levitate several scrolls in front of her. "What are those?"

Celestia grunted, wanting to say: 'The most infuriating, most vaguest scrolls I have ever read.'. Instead, she said, "These are special scrolls written by Starswirl the Bearded."

"Starswirl the Bearded?!" Twilight exclaimed, her eyes lightening up at the thought. "You mean..."

"Yes." Celestia nodded. "The Starswirl and everything. Tell me, have you read his works Twilight?"

"Uh-huh!" Twilight nodded enthusiastically. "I've read them all! I've read Starswirl the Bearded's 100 Basic Spells, Starswirl's Medium Spells for Learning Unicorns, Starswirl's Advanced Magical Teachings, Starswirl's Special Party Spells, Starswirl's 301 Alchemy Tricks...oh! And I've read Starswirl's Special Cake Recipes: 101 Ways to Feed Celes-" Twilight said before her mouth was shut off due to Celestia's hoof.

"Not another word." Celestia groaned. Blasted Starswirl! I thought I got rid of all the copies of that accursed book!

Celestia removed her hoof and patted her chest. "Sorry about that. Now, as I was saying, these are very special scrolls written by Starswirl. They contain...very different information from the usual Starswirl writings."

"What do you mean?"

"Well, since you told me that you've read most of his works, do you know his history?"

"His history? You mean, his life and accomplishments?"

"Yes." another nod. "Have you read about it?"

"Oh yes! I've read everything I could find!" Twilight said with a hop. "I've read about his adventures in Griffonstone, his times at Canterlot as a teaching wizard, that time where he fought two hydras at once and uh...um...I know I-oh! And that time where he figured out teleportation spells! I also read his times when he was Clover the Clever's student and-" she then began to ramble on, causing Celestia to just giggle at Twilight's glee.

After a few seconds, Celestia clapped her hooves, signaling Twilight to stop. "Now, what do you know about his last journey Twilight?"

"Last journey?" Twilight asked, her head tilted in confusion. "Wait, I thought he spent his last years as a teacher at your school? Before that...he went to Yakyakastan, right?"

"Not quite. His last journey was...something very different." Celestia patted the floor, telling Twilight to sit down. "As you said before, Starswirl spent his last few years at the school as a teacher but...he actually went on one last adventure."

"Really?! I've never read anything about it."

"That's because unlike all of the other endeavors Starswirl has done...this one is not known to the public."

"Not known? Why?"

"Well..." Celestia tapped the scrolls. "Even though Starswirl recorded all of his ventures and spells he created...not everything was published."

"But...I read that you had all of his stuff published to help every unicorn in Equestria. Why is some of his works not published?" Twilight asked before looking at the closed scrolls. "And are these scrolls the works you're talking about?"

"Yes." Celestia slightly opened one of the scrolls. "I originally had all of his works published due to his advancements in spell making. As you know, he was quite the mage."

"Yeah! Legend has it, he created over a thousand new spells for unicorns!"

"That...is close to the truth Twilight. In reality, he created a little over eight hundred."

"Really? Why only that many?"

Only that many?! Really?! Celestia did a slight cough. "Well, let's just say his last few years were invested into something...different."

"Different? You mean...those scrolls?"

"These scrolls chronicle his 'research' per say. In actuality, they are records of his thoughts and feelings in terms of what he called: 'The One True Origin of Magic'."

"Origin of magic? He was trying to find out where magic originally came from?"

"Not quite. At the start he was...well, something similar to researching the origin but..." Celestia let out a long sigh, she knew this would be hard to explain. "His research...changed. Instead, he believed he had found the origins of the world instead."

"Origins of...wow! Really?!" Twilight exclaimed, her jaw slightly dropped.

"Yes." Celestia nodded. Thank the sun. Looks like she's really interested even though it isn't about magic.

"So...he found out the beginning of the world?!"

"No. It was more of...he found something more along the lines of traveling to other worlds." Twilight's ears perked up at the statement. Celestia chuckled and gave another shining smile. "But he came close Twilight. That's what I'm going to start teaching you about."

"About the history of...you're gonna be my history teacher?"

"No." Celestia chuckled as she levitated the first scroll in front of Twilight. "I'm going to teach you about 'The Key'."

"The Key?"

"Yes." Celestia nodded. "First, could you give me a small summary of Starswirl's history? I need to know how much you know about him."

"Sure!" Twilight exclaimed, a goofy grin covering her face as she began to speak, "Starswirl was born in Canterlot over a thousand years ago! The books I've read said that he began as a magic prodigy when he was just a small colt. There, he was found by the legendary Clover the Clever, who taught him the basic spells which Starswirl then recorded. It is said that Starswirl began the original concept of recording magic spells for unicorns for the masses."

"That is correct Twilight. Please continue." Celestia said as she smiled at her happy student, surprised at the amount of joy Twilight was getting from just explaining her old friend's life.

"Okay, um...then he went on several journeys all over Equestria. It was said that he visited almost every known place and recorded all of his findings. He created teleportation spells, alchemy spells, transmogrifying spells...just about every type of spell! Then after several journeys, he came back to Canterlot and taught at your school, right?"

"Indeed he did. Clover the Clever also taught there for some time before Starswirl."

"Really?! I didn't know that..."

"Yes. You summed up most of what the basic public knows Twilight. That's quite good because I wanted you to at least have that much knowledge going into this training." Celestia said as she levitated a scroll in front of Twilight. "Now...about 'The Key' I mentioned earlier."

"Do you want me to read that?"

"Yes. Read that scroll Twilight, it'll start to make sense after you begin reading it."

"Um...okay." Twilight said as she opened the scroll, her hooves holding the paper. "Let's see..."

'The Key'. Of what I have studied, it seems to be an object or maybe a weapon that holds endless potential. I believe it to be an object that can change the very nature of the darkness. Even now, I still don't fully understand the darkness but I do know this: 'The Key' will show itself when the darkness appears. That and one more feature, 'The Key' seems to be connected to one certain thing. The heart. If I am correct, the heart is 'The Key's' true source of power. Perhaps it is the heart that allows 'The Key' to be wielded in the first place.

Twilight could blink after she finished the first paragraph. As the filly read another report, Celestia could swear she saw question marks begin to float above Twilight's head as she watched her protégé read. Definitely not alone on this. Way to go Starswirl. You just love being vague, don't you? Celestia thought as she sat for another few minutes, watching her new student's head turn sideways as confusion reared it's ugly head into the room. Time slowly drifted by as Twilight just sat there, pondering at the paper.

"Um...princess?" Twilight squeaked, trying to find her voice after reading such vague words.

"Yes my student?"

"I'm confused. I don't get any of this." Twilight said as she looked back up at Celestia with big puppy dog eyes. "Sorry."

"It's fine. Most of his...'special' works confuse me too."

"They do?" Twilight gasped.

"Yep. Let's just say...it's annoying how vague these works are. As I said before, these are very different writings compared to his usual spell making."

"Yeah...I can definitely see that." Twilight said as she rolled up the scroll. "So, what does this have to do with me?"

"Simple. As you read there, Starswirl was talking about 'The Key'. He believed it to be an object that could manipulate the very essence of magic itself."

"Uh-huh, I got that. It said 'The Key' was powered by the heart and...it sounds really powerful with magic and everything." Twilight said with slight hesitation. "Though I don't understand the light and darkness stuff..."

Celestia ignored her and continued. "And I believe you have the power to wield it."

Twilight didn't respond to that last statement. Her mind just sat there with her body, unresponsive. A blank stare drifted out of her eyes as she just sat there, staring at Celestia. After a few moments, Celestia slightly poked Twilight's forehead. "Twilight? Are you okay?"

"WHAT?!" Twilight suddenly yelped, causing Celestia to slightly leap back. "You want me to-what the...huh?!"

"Yes." Celestia said with a kind smile. "I believe you have the potential to wield that power Twilight."

"But but but...um, er...uh..." Twilight kept stuttering, trying to form some sentence. "I don't...I...I've never wielded this um...uh..."

Celestia's hoof tapped Twilight's mouth, stopping the young filly's confusion. Her eyes lit up as she watched Celestia shine a grin, causing all of Twilight's worries to melt away. "Listen Twilight, I know what I just said is...overwhelming. And kind of confusing. But it's true." Celestia put her hoof on Twilight's shoulder. "Twilight...when I saw you that day at the academy when you unleashed your magic and hatched Spike's egg...I saw something more. I saw a pillar of light shining all around you. I knew what I saw in that moment."

"You saw...light? I don't understand."

"Yes. I saw true light. Something that no ordinary pony could ever summon." Celestia said as her wing covered Twilight's back. "The light within that magic aura you cast was like no other. I believed it to be a sign of your destiny Twilight, just as I believe your cutie mark is a mark of your talent with magic."

"Wow, I-I don't know what to say." Twilight gasped. "Just...just what do I do?"

"Well..." Celestia's hoof descended and gently tapped Twilight's chest. "I think this will do the talking for you."

"My heart?" Twilight replied as she rubbed her belly. "Is that what you mean?"

"Yes." Celestia nodded. "Tell me Twilight, I believe you wield a power like no other. A power no other pony could possibly match or even understand. I know I have only known you for a week...but I know what I saw. Do you believe what I am saying?"

"I-I...I um..." Twilight stuttered, her mouth trembling in response. She gulped as her mind began to race. Wow. I don't know what to say. Princess Celestia has this much confidence in me?! But...me? Could I really do that? Could I...am I able to summon this 'Key'? How do I...what do I... Twilight began to hyperventilate, trying to figure out what to say. Celestia blinked as she watched her student try to have a nervous breakdown. Before Twilight could fall over from the pressure, Celestia's wing hugged her back.

"Calm down my student. You don't have to answer me now."

"But I...I uh...I don't-"

Celestia's hoof covered Twilight's mouth again. "It's okay. Calm down."

"But-"

"No buts Twilight." Celestia's hoof slowly ascended back. "Besides, I don't expect you to summon it now. Just when you know you're ready. You can take all the time you want."

"But...I uh..."

"Twilight. Stop worrying." A calm sigh released itself from the alicorn. "To be honest, I don't expect you to summon it right now. In fact, I plan to have you be able to summon it around a year from now."

"I..." Twilight's ears drooped as her face slowly shrank from Celestia's gesture. The alicorn's statement made Twilight's mind fall into a whirlwind of thoughts. She stared at her idol as she felt like she was melting from just being looked upon by Celestia. The calm, embracing smile Celestia gave off made her feel amazing. She has so much faith in me...in me. Little old me. she thought as she saw the hoof move farther away. Wow. Twilight thought as she tapped her chest again. She believes in me and...my heart. But could I really do it?

Twilight rubbed her chest as she continued to think over all the information she had just learned. The hidden tales of Starswirl, the talk of the Light and the Darkness. But the biggest one was 'The Key'. She bore a deep stare at her belly as she thought about everything. I don't get any of this. I wish I could just read a good book with all the facts in one go. Twilight's eyes closed as she tapped her head in a rhythmic tone. The heart...is the heart really all I need to summon this 'Key'? Sounds kinda goofy, like maybe I have to just open my heart and accept it. Twilight chuckled at the thought as she looked at the crib in the room, Spike still sleeping soundly. She giggled again as she watched her new companion just nap peacefully. I wish I could be like that. Completely carefree and loving the world.

Twilight felt a small tap on her shoulder, quickly knocking her out of her trance. "Huh?" Twilight gasped as she looked at her shoulder, a graceful tip of a wing tapping it. She then looked at the wing's owner. Another warm radiant smile greeted her.

"Don't think about it so hard my student." Celestia said as she rubbed Twilight's head. "Don't think you have to do this because I told you I think you can wield 'The Key'. Just...what do you want?"

"What I want?"

Celestia nodded. "Yes. What do you want?"

"What...do I...want?" Twilight said to herself as her eyes stared into the alicorn's bright smile. What do I want? What do I...I... At that moment, Twilight felt a surge of emotions, her mind reeled back as a certain memory clicked in her head.

The Past...

"And then what happened mommy?" An even smaller filly Twilight asked as she clutched her blanket. Her mother sat in front of her, casually looking at a filly's storybook over a certain holiday, Hearth's Warming. The tiny Twilight squeaked as she gave her mom puppy do eyes. "What happened after the three tribes united?"

Twilight Velvet patted her daughter's head as she read the last lines of the storybook. "Then, Smart Cookie the steadfast Earth Pony, Private Pansy the kindhearted pegasus and the powerful Clover the Clever, teacher of the mystical Starswirl the Bearded, were able to unite the tribes. The fire of friendship appeared within their hearts, instantly melting the ice of the windigos." Twilight Velvet closed the book with a small clap.

"Wow...that's amazing."

"Yes, it is my little Sparkle." Velvet said as she bent over and kissed the filly's forehead. "Just like you."

"Just like me?"

"Mmhmm." Velvet said with a nod. "You are an amazing filly, my beautiful little daughter."

"Thank you mommy!" Twilight said with a goofy little grin. "I love you!"

"I love you too." Twilight Velvet patted her daughter's head as she put the book up. "Now, it's time for you to go to bed."

"Okay..." Twilight said as she pulled out a small doll and hugged it tightly. She looked back at her parent as she was just about to leave the room. "Hey mom?"

"Yes?"

"Why was their friendship able to do that? Why did it save the day?"

The mother gave a small calm smile. "I'm not sure. I think...I think it means that friendship can change anypony's heart."

"Really?"

"I don't know. It's just a story." Twilight Velvet walked back up to her daughter one last time. "But I think it's wonderful and anypony can be just like those ponies in that story."

"Even me?"

Twilight Velvet kissed the filly one last time. "Even you, my cute and lovable little bookworm. After all, you have the biggest brightest heart that I know."

"Thank you mommy..."

The Present...

Twilight wasn't sure why she suddenly remembered that moment. Maybe it was because of the lesson of the story. Or maybe it was just something important and she couldn't remember why. Whatever it was, she knew it was important. Friendship, ponies that defied everything to just be together, even in their hearts. She knew she always loved that story. That fact she knew.

"What I want princess Celestia is..." Twilight stared straight ahead, her mind made up. Her eyes shined like diamonds as she looked back at her mentor. "I wanna learn everything!"

"Everything?"

"Everything! I wanna know everything! Especially about magic!" Twilight said as a large grin plastered itself on her face. "I want to know everything a pony can know and help ponies with that knowledge! I wanna make everypony happy with that knowledge!"

Celestia could only chuckle at her pupil, admiring her student's dream. What an innocent thing to dream about. You truly have a pure heart Twilight. I was right about you, you have to be the one.

But Celestia's thoughts would be truer that she thought as her eyes saw a small glimmer of light. The alicorn eye's quickly glared at her student as she saw the aura she had once saw when Twilight hatched Spike. That's...the Light!

Twilight stopped her rant for a second as she felt a certain tingle in her body. Huh? her mind said as she rubbed her chest again. What is...this feeling? Twilight put her hoof over her mouth as she felt a certain numbness fill her body. It feels...warm. Just what is-

The Light.

Huh? Twilight thought as her ears twitched from a sudden voice. What was-

Keyblade.

Before Twilight's thought could finish, a shining light surrounded the room. Twilight's horn began to blast out magic as her eyes shined like they had done so a week ago. Celestia's right wing folded in, shielding her from the sudden blinding light. Great Suns! Don't tell me-

A pillar of light surrounded Twilight, engulfing her body. Celestia could only squint as she watched her student begin to float in the air, light still revolving around the filly. "Twilight! Can you hear me?!" she yelled as the light show continued.

But her yelling fell on deaf ears. Instead, the light continued to shine. For what seemed to be hours to Celestia, the blinding vision continued as her student stayed in air. She just stood there, unflinching.

Then...the light disappeared. As if it was never there.

"Twilight!" Celestia exclaimed as she quickly rushed over to her student. "Are you okay?"

"Ooooohhhh..." the filly stuttered as her tiny body shook. "Mmmph."

"Huh?" Celestia replied, unable to understand what Twilight said. Then, the alicorn's eyes widened as she saw a certain sight in Twilight's mouth. No way...is that?!

Twilight looked up at her teacher, her eyes twitching from the recent experience. As she saw her mentor's face turn from concern to surprise, she could only think about one thing. That felt really weird. It felt like I was in some kinda trance and then I kept hearing some weird voice. Just what happened to me there...and why does my mouth feel funny? The filly's eyes glanced down, only to see a large key in her mouth. It had a bright gold square guard, a blue rain guard and a long silver frame. The teeth of the blade were shaped like a crown and the hilt had a small chain with a symbol of the sun at the end. The weight of the sword made her mouth feel a tinge of pain as her chin slowly descended from the weight.

"AAAaaaahhhh!" Twilight yelped as she spat the key out of her mouth. "What in the-ah!"

"Twilight?!" Celestia said as she saw Twilight suddenly put her hooves to the sides of her head. "Is something wrong? Are you in pain?"

"Ugh...feels...funny. Head...voice...."

"Voice?"

"Yeah, there was a...voice. In my head." Twilight rubbed her head with her hooves. "Key. Key."

"Key? Yes Twilight, you summoned-"

"KEYBLADE!" she yelled, causing Celestia to step back. "It said...keyblade."

"Key...blade?" Celestia replied, unsure of what just happened. "Is that what it's called?"

"Yeah! It's called...it's called the keyblade."

"Really? Amazing." Celestia said as she tapped the lying sword. It then flashed a shining light, only to disappear and reappear in Twilight's mouth. "Oh wow..."

"Mmmph!" Twilight mumbled as she pulled the blade out of her mouth again. "Ugh, why does it keep doing that?!"

"Hee hee, I think it likes you Twilight. Well done." Celestia chuckled as Twilight stuck her tongue out in disgust.

"Yeah, I think it does too." Twilight replied as she rubbed her tongue. "So, what does this mean?"

"I think it means..." Celestia spread her wings and hugged Twilight with all her might. "You pass with flying colors my protégé!"

"Really?! YAY!" Twilight gasped, her eyes shining at the words. "Wait...what test did I take?"

Celestia's wings slowly let her go, only for the little filly to slowly flop to the ground. "Twilight! Are you..." Celestia grabbed her student again and shined a cheeky smile. "Ah, she fell asleep. I guess whatever magic it takes to summon the keyblade must be truly straining on the body. Though I must say, I didn't expect you to summon it this early. I was sure it would take-" Celestia looked at her sleeping student and decided to stop ranting. A small kiss to her student's forehead soon followed as she picked up her student. "Sleep well my faithful student. Tomorrow...we will talk about your new keyblade after your classes."

Meanwhile, in another part of Equestria...

A certain cloaked pony sat in a small, darkly cover chair. Around the pony were several looming shadows, their eyes shining a bright yet hollow yellow light. The shadows slowly walked up to the pony, their antennas wobbling as their awkward feet moved on the ground. The lone pony's body began to shake as it sat there, trying not to flinch.

"What...what is this?" the pony said to itself. "What...what am I feeling?"

"Master?" said another cloaked pony as it entered the room. The pony bowed before the other as the pony continued to talk. "Are you alright?"

"Servant, I don't know. I feel...warm."

"Warm?"

"Yes, this feeling...I know it from somewhere, yet it feels so foreign. The darkness...it's not the wonderful darkness. It's something else."

The servant could only arch it's eyebrow in response. "Well, what is the feeling?"

"The light. The accursed, foul, wretched light. It's returned." the master hissed. The shadows around the pony began to stir in response.

"You don't mean..." the servant said with a gulp. "But it's too early Master! I mean, I know there hasn't been a bearer in a thousand years but...there's no way that-"

"It's happened." the master said in a booming voice, the sound shaking the very foundation of the room. The servant slowly backed away in response. "There is a new keyblade bearer...and this bearer is with the disgusting light."

"Then..." The Servant bowed down as several shadows surrounded the pony. "What is thy command Master?"

The cloaked pony ascended from the chair, the cloak slightly swaying from the movement. The Master extended a hoof out and clinched it, the muscles tightening in response. "Our first step is simple. We must summon all the Heartless."

Early Days, Part 3: The Dive to the Heart

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One of the many parts of 'The Key' that I have discovered is something called 'The Dive to the Heart'. It seems to be a type of dream realm designed for the bearer of 'The Key'. Within this dream, it will show the bearer things that will not only concern the bearer's destiny, but things that will determine the very outcome of the bearer's abilities. Absolutely fascinating! It's as if 'The Key' has a mind of it's own yet it asks it's bearer to choose it's own path. Strange since 'The Key' seems to be designed for a certain set path that involves the Light and the Darkness. I will need to do further research into this.

-Starswirl, Report 19

Twilight wasn't sure what she was feeling. All she knew was one thing. She was falling. She wasn't sure how long she had been falling, but it was there. Falling. Falling that felt like forever. Her mind wandered as she felt the weightlessness of her body. What's happening to me? Why am I falling? Just...just what is happening to me?

As one last thought drifted into her head, she felt her hooves touch a surface. She quickly glanced down and saw a platform. But this platform was anything from normal. What was under her hooves looked like glass. The very surface was smooth and flat, it's very feel of the glass was almost unworldly in a way.

Twilight shook her head as she slowly looked around. Her body twitched as she began to stand up. As she got up, she walked around the platform, only to look off the edges. There, she saw what she was really standing on. Is this...a glass pillar? What the...where am I?!

She looked up and saw nothing but a void of darkness. She quickly spun around, trying to find any other sights only to find more darkness. Nothing. That's all there was, a void of nothingness. "What is...huh?!" she said to herself as she backed away from the edge. "I don't understand...where am I?"

She looked down at the pillar she was standing on and her eyes widened again. "Wha...what is this?!" she exclaimed as she fell down on her flank. "Why is...why is there a picture of Princess Celestia on this glass pillar?!"

The pillar showed a sight that confused Twilight beyond belief. It was picture of Celestia and another pony. The other pony had a dark blue coat and a slightly brighter blue mane. She had a white moon as her cutie mark and seemed to be smaller than Celestia. Who is this pony? I recognize the princess but...this one looks like the total opposite of Princess Celestia. Who is she?

As Twilight began to calm down, she slowly got up and looked around again. So, where am I and how did I get here? I know I was in my room and...

So much to do, so little time...

"Wha..." Twilight stuttered as she heard the sudden voice.

Take your time. Don't be afraid.

Twilight spun around again, trying to find the voice's origin. "Is somepony there?"

The Door is still shut.

"The door?" Twilight asked, blinking. After a few moments, she realized the voice had stopped talking. "Hey! Are you still there? Who are you?"

No answer.

Huh...okay, this is really weird. she thought as she began to pace around the pillar. I don't understand, where am I? And what was that voice? As she completed a whole circle of pacing, the voice spoke up again.

Now, will you step forward? Or will you go back?

"Will I..." Twilight wanted to ask who the voice was, but she had started to realize that it was pointless question. Instead, she decided to answer his question, thinking she knew the right answer. "I...I'll step forward."

Good. See where going forward goes.

As the voice finished his statement, a bunch of floating stairs appeared outside of the pillar. The stairs were made out of glass as well, their shape was that of thin rectangles. Twilight blinked as she looked at the stairs and where they led, noticing another pillar that had seemly just popped out of nowhere. Sensing she had to comply, her hooves slowly ascended the floating staircase.

As she reached the end, her eyes glanced at the floor again. This time the floor showed two different ponies, both of them unicorns. One had a light blue coat and sliver with white colored mane. Her cutie mark was a small wand with a moon. The other had a pink coat and a multi-colored mane of purple and brightly colored green. Her cutie mark looked like a purple diamondized star with small aquamarine colored wisps above it. Who are these two ponies? Twilight thought as she rubbed her chin. I don't think I've ever met them before. Right before Twilight could think up another thought, the voice spoke up again.

Power rests within you. Will you accept it?

"Huh?" Twilight could only say before three objects suddenly appeared before her. She blinked as she saw a sword, a shield and a wand float in mid-air in front of her. All three had emblems of the sun on them. "Why are there weapons here? Well, expect for the shield that is. Then again, technically it could be considered a..."

Twilight ranted for a while until she looked at the weapons again. She slowly walked up to the three and tapped the sword with her hoof. As if it was there all along, the voice rang out again.

The Sword. Power. Strength. Courage. Those who wield this can destroy anything in their path. This is the way of the warrior.

"The way of the warrior..." Twilight repeated as she tapped the sword again. "Sounds kinda dangerous...and gloomy."

Do you choose this path?

"Um...no. Let me see the others first please." Twilight squeaked, slowly backing away. She turned and touched the shield.

The Shield. Fortitude. Endurance. Resilience. An unbreakable spirit flows through this wielder. This is the way of the guardian.

"The way of the guardian...it also sounds kinda gloomy. And rough..."

Do you choose this path?

"No. I wanna check the wand." Twilight replied, removing her hoof. After a few seconds, her hoof found itself lightly tapping the final object.

The Wand. Wisdom. Knowledge. Intelligence. One who understands many things wields this path. This is the way of the mystic.

"The mystic..." Twilight muttered, her eyes shining from the words. The very talk of knowledge meant only one thing in her mind: magic. And Twilight knew she loved magic. "Sounds like my kind of path!"

Do you choose this path?

"YES!" Twilight exclaimed. "I want that!"

As soon as the words left Twilight's mouth, the wand disappeared in a puff of light. The sight took her back for a second until the voice spoke again.

You have chosen your path. Now, before your path is completely set, you must give up something in exchange.

"What?" Twilight yelped before looking back at the sword and shield. "I have to...give up one of these? But which one do I choose?"

No response.

"Great..." Twilight said as her ears drooped down. "Now what do I do? Do I just give up one of these? But...which one?" Twilight covered her mouth as she kept shifting between the two. Power or defense. Hmm...strength does sound important but...

After a few more moments of deep thought, Twilight finally made her decision. She walked over to the sword and tapped it again.

The Sword. Power. Strength. Courage. Those who wield this can destroy anything in their path. This is the way of the warrior.

"Yes, I know that already. You don't have to repeat it."

Do you give up this power?

"Yes." Twilight nodded. As those words entered the room, the sword vanished from sight. The voice spoke once more.

You have chosen the way of the mystic. You have given up the way of the warrior. Is this acceptable?

"Yes."

Very well. But your journey has not yet begun.

"Huh?" was all Twilight could say before she heard an odd cracking sound. She looked down and despair covered her face. The glass floor began to shake. Then cracks appeared. "Oh no." she said with a gulp. "No no no no no-"

More cracks began to appear until finally, the floor shattered. "AAAAAaaahhhh!" Twilight yelled as she began to fall again. She could feel her weightless body falling as the pieces of the floor fell with her. "HELP! SOMEPONY HELP ME!!!"

But the scream fell on deaf ears as Twilight continued to fall. Twilight closed her eyes as the fall kept going, panic absorbing her mind. Until finally, her body hit another glass pillar with a resounding thud. She could feel her face kissing the glass as she slowly opened her eyes. "Ugh...that hurt." she said as she shook her head in discomfort. "Now where am I?"

She looked at the floor again and saw a new sight. Here, the glass showed three very different ponies. One pony was a shining purple coated unicorn with a light blue mane. Another was a grey coated stallion with a jet black mane and had what looked like a royal coat and a crown on his body. Twilight personally found his red colored unicorn horn to be the most intriguing part of the pony. Though the filly was puzzled at the sight she was looking at, the last pony on the floor confused her even more. The last one had a light purple coat and a swirly-haired mane. Her eyes looked like hypnotic swirls and she was wearing the most peculiar hat. It was as if the earth pony wasn't really a pony, she looked almost to...bizarre for a pony.

"What is this?" Twilight said to herself as she tapped the floor. "Who are these three? They all look so-"

Power still sleeps within you.

"Ack! You again!" Twilight yelped.

There will be times you will need to fight.

"What are you-" Twilight said before the keyblade popped into mouth. "Mmmph!" She quickly spit the blade out and wagged her tongue. "Ugh...why did the-"

This power is needed to protect or destroy.

"Oh...so that's why the keyblade appeared. Wait a minute, did you say I needed to fight?!"

Indeed. There are times when foes will appear before you.

"F-f-foes?!" Twilight squeaked, her eyes shrinking at the thought. "B-b-b-but I don't how to fight!"

Before her statement was finished, a small shadow slowly slithered through the floor. The shadow was small and it's entire being was that of a jet black color. It slipped left and right until it finally raised up, it's eyes glowing like bright headlights. Two small antennae bobbled on the top of it's head as it swayed back and forth. But it's eyes, it's eyes looked deeply into Twilight as she sat there squirming. Twilight turned and saw the shadow, her eyes widening at the creature. What the... The shadow's hands slowly lifted themselves, revealing long claws. Uh-oh... Then, it leaped into the air, it's tiny claws fully unleashed!

"Ack!" Twilight yelped as the shadow hopped in front of her. She quickly stepped back as the shadow landed before her, it's attack whiffing. It looked up at her again and did another leap. As it's claw came close to Twilight's face, a shining light quickly appeared and knocked the creature away. Twilight looked down at her mouth again and then at the creature. The keyblade! It protected me...wait...this thing is one of those foes, isn't it?

As Twilight stood up with blade in tow, her eyes widened at the incoming danger. Several shadows began to appear on the floor, covering parts of the glass. That's not good. Twilight thought with a gulp. She gritted her teeth on the keyblade, realizing her situation and prepared for the worst. That voice said I had to fight...guess I got no choice.

On the exact moment the thought was finished, a shadow on the right leaped at her. She quickly swung her head, the blade slashing through the shadow. Two others soon followed, jumping in the air. Their claws hit her sides, causing her to wince in pain. Another grabbed her back, causing her to fall over. "Augh!" she yelled in pain. Twilight quickly stumbled her hooves around, trying to get up. Gotta...get up!

Twilight finally stood up and did a bum rush, knocking off the shadow on her back. She quickly spun around and swung the blade on the shadow, causing it to dissipate like smoke. The other two shadows merged with the floor, quickly shuffling around the pillar. Twilight's eyes followed the two as they quickly slithered around in random directions. Twilight's mind began to race, trying to analyze the situation. I've got to keep calm. Blasted blade is so hard to use...hurts the neck like crazy. Twilight's vision began to shift as she watched another shadow merge and unmerge again. These things can obviously merge with the floor so...I got to wait for them to unmerge. Let's see...now!

As her thought finished, a small shadow's head slowly popped out of the floor. Before it's entire body could unmerge, Twilight spit her blade out. She quickly gripped it in her small hoof and slammed the blade into the creature's head, completely destroying it. However, this victory was short-lived as the other shadow's claw struck her side. Pain exploded through her body as she fell over from the strike. Grr...I should have saw that coming. I've got to... Twilight's quickly leaped back up and swung the blade into the shadow, only to hit the floor. It had merged into the floor again. NO! Darn it! Stupid creature!

Twilight spun around again, looking for the creature. As she scanned the pillar, she quickly realized where it went as she looked at her hooves. It was right under her. A small shriek exited her mouth as she ran to the other side of the pillar. Gotta...get away...now! She looked back, only to see the shadow unmerge and began to leap into the air. The shadow grew closer as it fell close to Twilight's face, it's claws fully out. Reflexes kicked in and Twilight's hoof swiped her blade, slicing the shadow in half.

Seeing the shadows gone, the blade fell out of Twilight's hoof. Sweat dripped down her head as her tongue stuck out from exhaustion. "Oooohhhh...I'm so glad that's over." She looked back up, trying to look for the mysterious voice. "Hey! Why did you make me do that?!"

No response.

"Great...still not talking to me." the filly said to herself, understandably ticked off. "Just...what is happening to me?!" Twilight tapped her head, looking at the floor again. Okay Twilight, think. I just got the keyblade after talking to Princess Celestia and... as Twilight's last thought went through her head, her left hoof felt something. She looked down at her hoof and shrieked in horror. Her hoof was suddenly surrounded by inky, black darkness. She looked back up and saw that the pillar had become completely engulfed in the same substance. It was as if a full puddle of darkness had drowned the entire glass pillar, it's picture of the three ponies completely distorted. "AAAAAAHHHH!!! HELP! SOMEPONY HELP ME!" Twilight screamed as she tried to pull her hoof up, only for her other hoof to get caught in the sudden darkness. Then another hoof. And another. Then finally...her entire body sank into the pillar. "No...NO! AAAAAAHHHHH!!!"

Twilight laid on the floor as she swung her hooves back and forth, screaming at the top of her lungs. "Help! Somepony help me! Help...huh?" Twilight said as she slowly opened her eyes. She looked at her hooves in bewilderment, trying to figure out what just happened. What the...I'm...okay. That's weird. I thought for sure... Her eyes blinked as she looked past her hooves, seeing the new floor. This floor had the strangest picture of them all. What in the-that's my cutie mark! And...it's surrounded by some...are these other cutie marks? There's a thunderbolt, three balloons, some diamonds, a few apples and a trio of butterflies. I don't...What is all this?!

After a few more thoughts, Twilight got up and shook her fur. Looking around, she noticed that once again, there was nothing but a dark void surrounding the glass pillar. Her ears drooped down at the sight as she walked around the pillar. Seeing that nothing was happening, she spoke up, "Okay voice! What do you want me to do this time?"

Your light is strong.

"What?" Twilight replied, surprised at the response.

But your light shall get stronger.

"Get stronger?"

And when that light grows, so shall your shadow.

"My...shadow?" Twilight said before she felt a tingle down her spine. Her instincts kicked in as she looked behind her, seeing something that frightened her more than anything. Her own shadow suddenly grew glowing eyes, shining in the dark. The shadow then began to grow, slowly ascending from the ground. It's long figure slithered upward, forming itself into a giant dark pony. Twilight began to step back, her whole body shaking in fear. "WHAT IS THAT?!"

Don't be afraid.

Twilight fell over, her hooves trying to crawl backwards from the giant dark figure. Then her hoof couldn't feel any ground. Her head slowly turned and saw the edge of the pillar. "Oh no..."

Your weapon is beyond the darkness.

The dark figure's hoof slammed into the floor, causing it shake. Twilight yelped as she scrambled on her hooves to get up.

Your power will show you the way.

The giant shadow opened it's mouth and screamed a loud piercing yell. Twilight covered her ears, her eyes wincing from the noise. It's hooves slammed the floor again, instigating a challenge. Twilight could only stand there, gulping at the sight. As the dark pony raised it's hoof again, the keyblade popped into Twilight's mouth again. I have to fight...that's what you're telling me, isn't it?

Twilight wasn't sure what she was feeling. She knew she was scared. She could feel her nerves tingle on every fiber of her being. Yet...she knew she could win. Maybe it was the voice, maybe it was the keyblade. Whatever it was, she knew she could win. That was all that mattered. She gritted her teeth on the keyblade, her eyes filled with determination. The dark figure bent down and stared right into her eyes, the two meeting with full determination. Twilight cricked her neck as she took a step forward. All right, let's go!

The giant lifted both of it's front hooves and slammed the ground again, making two giant dark puddles. Several shadows ascended from the puddle, causing Twilight to step back only for a second. Her mouth trembled as it dropped the keyblade out and into her hoof. The shadows glared at her and charged at full steam. Three shadows leapt at the filly, causing her to quickly swing her blade left and right. Quickly slicing two of them, the third jumped back and merged with the floor. Seeing this, Twilight flew into the giant hooves, striking it several times.

The keyblade kept striking the hoof, darkness splattering everywhere the blade stroke. Seeing the damage, the hoof ascended but kept the other down. Twilight glanced at the other and charged, ready to deal more damage. Then, before another strike could be made, a ball of darkness popped in front of her and exploded. Twilight screamed as she flew from the explosion. She screeched on the floor, her vision blurring from the blow. Wha-what hit me?

As she struggled to stand up, she looked at the dark figure. There, she saw the balls of darkness blast out of it's mouth, the bombs flying through the air. Twilight's eyes watched as three more balls float in the air, causing her to step back. One approached her and she quickly swat it away with her keyblade. The bomb blasted itself into the dark being's face, causing it to yelp in pain. Two more bombs descended at the same time, causing her to jump away. As both exploded, Twilight rushed into the giant's hooves, her blade ready to strike. She swung the sword repeatedly, trying to knock the dark figure down. Come on, come on! Fall! Please fall!

As she swung one more time, a loud piercing yell came from the horse again. The scream caused Twilight to fall over, the noise blasting her eardrums. One of the giant hooves then swatted Twilight away, causing her to fly right in front of the giant. Twilight tried to get up only for despair to cover her face again. Oh no... she thought as she realized what was happening. The giant was tipping over, the horse was about to completely fall on top of Twilight. No. No no no!

"AAAAaaahhhh!" she yelled as the dark being fell on top of her. "NO! Get off me! Augh!" Darkness began to flood all over the pillar, it's presence beginning to drown Twilight. She kept struggling, her hooves swinging back and forth. As the darkness kept flowing, Twilight tried to scream. But no sound could come out. Her whole body was covered except a hoof. As the hoof tried to struggle, a small voice called out.

Don't be afraid. The power you wield.

The darkness continued to cover the hoof, it's edge darkening.

It will do the impossible.

Then, the last bit of the hoof began to be devoured.

It will open the door.

As the last bit disappeared, Twilight couldn't feel a thing. It felt like every sense was numbed, every part gone. Then, all of it was gone. Everything. Her eyes began to close from the loss. The darkness filled every ounce of her being. Not even a ounce of noise, no screams could be heard.

It will open the door to the light.

As Twilight's eyes fully closed, she felt something. Something warm. Light. Her eyes opened and saw a beam of light, shining in front of her. The light blasted the darkness around her. She shielded her eyes, trying to see. Then, nothingness.

In the end, you alone have the power. The power to open the door.

"AAAAAAaaaaahhhh!" Twilight yelled, her head flying straight up. Sweat dripped from her forehead as she panted from the shock. She swung her head around, trying to see where she was. After a few seconds, she realized her situation. "My room. I'm back in my room." She fell backwards onto her pillow, her mouth exhaling a giant breath. "It was a dream. It was all a dream."

She flopped her head sideways and looked at Spike's crib on the other side of the room. "Or was it? Was that...was it real?"

As if on cue, the keyblade shined a magnificent light as it appeared inside Twilight's mouth. She quickly spat it out, the blade falling on top of her bed covers. The next few minutes were nothing but silence as she stared at the blade, her mind turning into a mix of mushy emotions. The keyblade...it was in my dream too. Just what is...I don't understand.

She blinked a few times and then concentrated. A small aura covered her horn as she glared at the laying blade. Her cheeks puffed up as she kept staring at the blade, small drops of sweat appearing on her face. This is...what the hay?! Why can't I levitate the keyblade?! Is it immune to unicorn magic?! The thought made her make a resounding gulp inside her throat as she realized her mouth would be the main mode of transporting the key. A flash of light shined as the keyblade disappeared, it's presence completely gone. It's gone...just like that dream.

As her little body tried to get off the bed, her eyes began to close again, a wave of drowsiness covering her body. Realizing she wasn't gong anywhere while being this tired, she let out a small yawn. "I'll...I'll just ask Princess Celestia tomorrow." Her head plopped onto a soft feathery pillow. "Though maybe I should...make a...*yawn*...a to-do list...about it."

Meanwhile...

"AUGH!" screamed a certain cloaked pony, it's body falling to the floor. Darkness bleed from it's coat as the pony began to squirm on the floor. "NOOOO! This...this can't be!"

"Master!" yelled another cloaked pony, quickly rushing into the room. "Master! Are you alright?"

"No. I'm not." the Master spat while getting back up. The pony grabbed it's forehead and shook it, sweat pouring down the pony's face. "This feeling...no. No! It can't be! Not here, not now!"

"Master? What's wrong?"

The Master quickly grabbed the Servant's collar and yelled, "The new bearer! We must find out everything about the new bearer!"

"Wha-" the Servant stuttered, trying to talk. "Master...I uh..."

"We must know. NOW!"

"Alright Master...I'll get some more information if that's what you want. I'll go send some Heartless and-"

"Good. Make it quick." the Master said, it's body lounging back on a chair. "Ooohhh...this is not good."

"I don't understand Master. Why is this pony such a problem? After all, we've handled keybearers before and-" the pony's rant was cut short by a raised cloaked hoof.

"Because...that pony has done something I haven't felt in a long time."

"Wha...what did the pony do?" the Servant squeaked, trying to figure out what the Master meant.

"Whoever they are...they've accepted light. Pure light."

Hearing these words, the Servant's ears drooped down at the information. A slight shiver shook the pony's cloak. "I see. Master, that is not good. Those who live within the light-"

"Indeed. If there is somepony with pure light...they will become a threat to the darkness we bear."

"Should I take care of it? All I need is a few Heartless and-"

The Master stroked it's chin for a second as it made a response, "No. Information comes first. If it comes to the conclusion that elimination must happen, just...just prepare your apprentice to take this pony on."

"What?! But Master, she is not ready!"

"I know she isn't, just begin to prepare her. Nothing more."

The servant bowed, "Yes my Master. I will do this and gather more information on this new bearer."

"Excellent. Do not fail me." the Master raised it's hooves to the air. "We have come to far to fail now. After all...our goal is so close now."

"I know. If I am to summon the Heartless, does this mean an invasion?"

"Yes." The Master shined a deliciously evil smile. "We'll start by invading Canterlot."

Early Days, Part 4: The First Change

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Despite my best intentions, I believe there are serious dangers in my research over 'The Key'. It seems to be an object that not only can involve itself in both light and darkness, but can also link itself to other worlds. Other worlds! And I thought the mirror I created was bad enough! It seems I'm destined to find other realms of existence. I just hope these other worlds do not have as many consequences as the one I originally found.

-Starswirl, Report 8

"Taxes, bill, petitions...sweet suns, it never changes does it?" Celestia groaned as she attempted to gulp down a cup of coffee. Unfortunately, it seemed to be empty. "Assistant! I need another cup!"

"Yes your majesty." the assistant said with a nod.

"I can't believe the nonsense those nobles cook up. Half of this garbage is nothing but greedy demands and-"

"Your majesty..." the assistant twiddled her hooves as she spoke up, "We um...we can all hear you."

"I know." Celestia moaned. The alicorn cocked her eyebrow as she glanced at her companions in the room. "Tell me something, do you think that really matters?"

"Er...no?"

"Exactly. Get me another cup. Now."

"Yes your majesty."

Celestia sighed as she signed another paper and began to think, Hmm...I hope Twilight is okay. I know it was only yesterday when she summoned the keyblade and yet...I probably should talk to her after her classes today. Thank goodness we have a name for the keyblade now, I got sick of saying 'The Key'. Celestia switched to another paper and let out a groan. Great holy suns! There is not enough coffee in the world for all of this nonsense! Augh! I need another cup...and a stiff triple vanilla lemon cake.

She let out another yawn. Hmm...I also need to do some more research. I know Starswirl wrote something about dreams in one of his scrolls in terms of the keyblade, I hope that hasn't happened to Twilight yet. What was it called again? I think it was...'Dive into the Heart' maybe? A snort released itself from her nostrils as she began reading the last piece of paper. Hmm...why do I have a bad feeling about all of this? I know I shouldn't but... Celestia put the final paper aside. Maybe I need a vacation first. Though knowing my luck, something will go wrong today.

The classes flew by for Twilight. Though she knew why they were flying by, she still couldn't stop thinking about it. She just couldn't stop thinking about that dream. It consumed her very mind, the shadows, the keyblade, the ponies on the glass pillars. Everything inside that dream just kept swirling in her mind. I wish I could've talked to Princess Celestia about that dream this morning but...I just need to make sure I talk to the princess later today. she thought as she laid her head on her desk. She knew that regularly, she would be bright and ready for class. She loved to learn, listening to the lessons of the teacher. However, she could only show a expression of despair and confusion. Just what was that? Just what was that dream? Those ponies on those glass pillars...there was that one with Princess Celestia and that other pony. And then there was that one with-

"Twilight?" a voice said, snapping Twilight back into reality.

"Huh?!"

"Class is over for today. You can leave now."

"Oh...okay. Thank you Miss Cinch." Twilight said as she left her chair, grabbing her saddlebags. She shuffled into the hallway as she made her way back to the throne room. Her tiny head stared at the floor as she walked down the hall. Wow...I'm really distracted today. Maybe I should stop by the school library before I meet the princess. I mean, she was obviously super busy this morning since the guards asked me to go to class first. That and a good book always cheers me up. Twilight looked up and saw the hallways in front of her. Hmm...maybe I should go say hi to Spike before I get myself a book.

It wasn't long till the little filly ended up in the library. To her, this place was the closest thing to paradise. The rows of books covered the walls as her eyes shined in delight at the very sight before her. "You see Spike? I told you this place was amazing." she said to her little friend riding her back. His reaction was slightly less happy and more along the combination of confused and curious.

"Kupo kupo."

"I know right?" Twilight responded as she went down the first row of books. "They have every genre here! The have romance, adventure, history..." Unfortunately for Spike, Twilight's ranting made it impossible for her to notice that he was already bored. His pom-pom on his head drooped down at the sight, showing he probably wanted something to eat or to play with rather than interact with the books he couldn't even read. Instead, the filly skipped down the aisles in glee as her moogle friend just laid down on her back.

"Oooh! How about this one Spike? It's called: The Art of the To-Do List. Sounds like it's right up my alley!" Twilight said as the book floated in front of her. "Or how about this one? Or maybe this one?!"

"Kupo..." Spike groaned as his wings twitched in response.

"You're right, maybe I should try fiction for now...like this one: The Jungle Book or a book about one happy song and nothing else. Sounds like a happy story, huh?"

"Ku...po..." Spike yawned, his eyes slowly closing.

"Or how about this one? It's uh...The Lion King or Hamlet with a happy ending. Wait...that sounds kinda depressing."

"Ku...zzz..." a slight snore released itself from Spike's red nose.

"I agree Spike, maybe I should-huh?" Twilight stopped herself, seeing a certain book in the bookshelf. "Now that's odd Spike, this book doesn't a have title on it's spine." A magic aura engulfed the book as it came closer to the filly. "It doesn't have a cover either. Not a title in sight, is it inside the book?"

Two filly hooves tapped the sides of the book as Twilight began trying to open the book. "What the-is it stuck? Why isn't it opening?"

The filly put her companion down on the ground as she began to fiddle with the book. Her stubby little hooves shook the book as she tried and tried to pull it open. "Hmm...I don't think I can open it Spike. Does it have some kind of magical lock?" An aura covered the book again, trying to open the book as well. "That's not working either."

The book was gently placed onto the floor as Twilight hovered over the novel. It was this moment that she felt she had to open this book. She wasn't sure why, but it felt like the book was challenging her to open it. She gave it one last try as she began to grab it's edges one last time. "Come on, open up little guy!"

Though the book continued to remain shut, Twilight was convinced it could be opened. However, she soon found out that what she thought was true. As her hooves struggled to open the tiny novel, a certain light began to shine from the book. "Huh? Did I finally get it?" she said as the light got bigger and bigger as the sides of the book began to split apart. Twilight blinked in response as the light blasted itself out of the book and into her eyes. As the light engulfed her and her companion she could only try to cover her eyes before saying, "What the-"

But that was all that could be said. After that, the hallway in the school's library became empty as a small book let out a resounding thud as it hit the floor. Silence soon followed as both the filly and moogle had disappeared, leaving only a book with no cover on the floor.

Meanwhile...

"So..." a certain cloaked pony asked, it's hoof tapping another pony's shoulder. The cloaked pony was at the bottom of the mountain where Canterlot was situated on. The concealed schemer shined a smile as it looked down at another significantly smaller cloaked pony. The smaller of the two wore a jet black cloak as well, though a small horn poked out of the hood. The cloak didn't fully fit the small foal's head, but it hid the pony's identity regardless. "Are you ready my dark apprentice?"

"Y-y-yes." the small pony stuttered, it's voice shaking. It's tiny hooves trembled at the very sight of the other cloaked pony.

"Good. What is your mission?"

"I-I-it is..." the filly then shut her mouth, stopping the fleeing words.

"What did you just say?!" the other pony said in a grim tone, a dark flame appearing in the pony's hoof. The hoof clenched with the dark flame, veins appearing on the edges of the hoof. "What. Is. Your. Mission?!"

"T-t-to show the p-p-ponies the terror of the Heartless." the filly's hooves shook in response as a large thick black aura covered her body. Her mouth tried to not say anything, only to keep talking from the dark magic. "To s-s-show them that the d-d-darkness will conquer all hearts."

"Good. Remember my little apprentice, I will destroy your heart if you defy me." The larger one hissed. The filly just shook.

"Y-y-yes master."

"I am my Master's Servant and you are beneath me. That makes you less than a worm. Remember that." the tall one said as it's burning hoof waved in front of the filly's face. "Do not fail me."

"I know." the filly gulped, "Please d-d-don't destroy my h-h-heart."

"If you obey, everything will be fine." The bigger pony nodded, the dark flame slowly fading from it's hoof. "Now, even though that is your main mission...you will not fully accomplish it unless you achieve one certain goal. What is that goal?"

"T-t-to eliminate the new keyblade bearer."

"Exactly. Now...attack Canterlot with the Heartless! Destroy their streets and tear apart every single building! Drown the city in fear!" the cloaked pony raised it's hoof and tightened it, a small hidden grin shined on it's face. One by one, Heartless after Heartless appeared around the two, a thick shadowy mist surrounding the duo. The pony then pointed to the magnificent city in front of them. "Show them the true power of darkness!"

The smaller cloaked pony gave a small hesitant nod as she stared at the city. Her hoof grabbed her hood and slowly took it off, showing a small white haired blue filly. A nasty, smoke filled aura surrounded the filly, a red glow floating around her eyes. "D-d-don't worry m-m-master. The G-g-great and P-p-p-powerful Trixie will show them the true terror of the darkness!"

Early Days, Part 5: The Unicorn and the Bear

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If there is one flaw I will gladly admit that I have, it's the fact that I overthink things. The very act of thinking seems to be something that I've always had problems with. No matter what happens, it seems The Key is just out of reach from my heart. Maybe that's why I can't obtain The Key. I rather use my brain than my heart. Then again, it sounds like I'm overthinking things as always. Perhaps the heart is the same way in terms of not worrying about thinking. This could be more evidence that the heart is so much more than what we think it is.

-Starswirl, Report 47

"Ow!" Twilight yelped as her face hit the ground. "Oooohhhh...that hurt..." Her hooves slightly shook as she slowly got up. "Spike? You okay?"

"Kuuuupoooo..." Spike squeaked, his head bobbling back and forth.

"Good. You're okay." Twilight slightly shook and then patted her moogle companion. After a few minutes of readjusting herself, the duo began to look at their new surroundings. They were in a small, not very dense forest. The forest looked like it was made out of a painting. That or it was if the whole place was one giant pop-up book. The colors of the forest were very light green, as if they were water-colored. "Huh...hey Spike? Why are we in a forest?" she said as she looked at the woods around her. Her eyes blinked at the tranquil looking forest, surprised at simple looking trees. "I don't-where are we?"

"Kupo?"

"I know, it's weird. I could have swore I was just checking a book out of the archival hallway and..." Twilight did a slight hop as she remembered. "That's right! There was that book and a flash of light!"

"Kupo kupo."

"I know...at least if you're saying what I think you're saying. Hmm...did that light send me here? Are we inside that book?!" Twilight's eyes shined at the thought. Wait a minute...if I went inside a book, a literal book... Drool began to form in her mouth at the thought. Does that mean I could go into any book?! That would be amaz-

"Kupo?" Spike said as he tapped her shoulder, knocking Twilight out of her trance.

"Huh?" Twilight replied as she sucked up her drool. "What is it Spike? What are you-" The filly blinked a few times as she looked at her surroundings again. "Oh yeah, we're in this funny looking forest."

"Kupo."

"Yeah...you're probably right." Twilight began to scratch her chin in response. She glanced at the trees again, her ears slightly dropping in response. "Despite how awesome going into a book might sound, we also need to know how to get out of the book. Or, at least that's what I think you said Spike."

"Kupo?"

Twilight began to scratch the side of her head. "So, where are we? And how do we get back to the library?"

"Kupo." Spike said as his pom-pom drooped down.

Twilight's eyes looked around again and saw a small clearing in the woods. "Hmm...maybe we should get out this forest first."

"Kupo!"

"Okay! Let's go Spike!" Twilight said as she put Spike on her back. "Ready?"

"Kupo kupo!" Spike exclaimed as he pointed ahead with his tiny furry paw. "Kupo!"

Spike cheered as he began to sit on Twilight's back, his tiny mind now awake. The duo walked out onto the clearing, only to see a small log. On the log was a small yellow bear wearing a red shirt. Twilight's head shifted sideways as she looked at the bear. The bear just sat there, tapping it's head. Huh. Is that a...bear? I mean, it kinda looks like one. It looks more like a stuffed teddy bear... Twilight thought as she approached the creature. I've read that most bears aren't that mean unless you mess with their cubs...wait a minute. Twilight's ears twitched as she heard the noises coming out of the bear's mouth. The bear was talking. It can talk?! How?!

"Think, think. Think, think." the bear said to itself, it's arm still tapping it's head. "Think, think. Think, think."

Twilight twiddled her hooves as she watched the little bear continue to contemplate. Should I talk to it? I mean...it looks harmless.

"Think, think. Think, think."

Deciding to take a chance, Twilight spoke up, "Um, hello?"

"Hmm?" the bear said, his eyes looking up and glancing at Twilight. "Oh, hello there."

"Hi."

"Kupo."

"Hello you two. Who are you?"

"Oh um...I'm Twilight and this is Spike. Who are you?"

The bright yellow bear shined a small, innocent smile. "Hello Twilight and Spike. I'm Winnie the Pooh, Pooh for short."

"Um...okay. Nice to meet you Pooh." Twilight replied as she gave a small nod.

"Why its very nice to meet you too." Pooh said with a nice innocent grin. The two just stared at each for a second until Twilight took the initiative.

"Say uh, Pooh...do you know where we are?"

"Where we are? Oh yes, we're here in this meadow, I think. This meadow in the Hundred Acre Wood." Pooh responded with his usual kind smile.

"The Hundred Acre Wood?" Twilight asked as she glanced at Spike. "I've never heard of it."

"Oh...well, that's where you are. At least I think it is."

"You think it is?!" Twilight said as she stepped back. "Are you not..." Twilight wanted to complete her sentence but Pooh's expression stopped her. She blinked as she watched Pooh just sit there with an oblivious smile. It was obvious to her that the bear didn't have much intelligence and she decided that it was best to not ask. Instead, she got up and sat on the log with Spike on her back. The little moogle hopped off her back and inched closer to Pooh, he's tiny feet tiptoeing down the piece of wood. "So Pooh...what were you doing?"

"Hmm? Oh, I was thinking about thinking."

"Thinking...about thinking?"

"Oh yes. I was thinking about why I think."

"Why you think...huh." Twilight said, her head slightly turned sideways in confusion. "Why you were thinking about that?"

"I was thinking about thinking because I wanted to know what I should do next."

"Do next?"

"Yes. I was thinking about going on an adventure."

"An adventure?" Twilight replied, unsure of why the little bear kept switching topics.

"Yes. I'm gonna go get myself some honey." Pooh casually said as he rubbed his belly. "I'm feeling a little bit eleven-o-clockish, so I need some honey to fill the rumbly in my tummy."

"Oh...okay."

"Would you like to join me, Twilight and Spike?"

Twilight still wasn't sure what was going on or where she was. But she did know one thing, she must be here for some reason or the book wouldn't have sent her here. As she tried to think of what she had to do, Spike jumped down from the log and gave her a nudge.

"Kupo!"

"Hmm? What is it Spike?" She asked her tiny friend.

"Kupo kupo!" Spike exclaimed, pointing at Pooh.

"You want to follow Pooh?"

"Kupo!"

Twilight blinked a few times and then nodded. "Okay Spike, I see what you mean." She turned to Pooh with a smile. "Okay Pooh, we'll go on an adventure with you."

"Oh goody." Pooh said with a smile. He did a slight wave as he turned around and walked away from the clearing. Twilight slowly followed after putting Spike on her back, a small grim popping up on her face as she watched the bear do an odd, stumbly walk. His little body bobbled back in forth as his tiny feet barely tapped the ground.

How weird...yet oddly adorable. Twilight thought as she followed him. Her eyes wandered around as she looked at the grasslands around her. The Hundred Acre Wood huh? Sure seems to be a nice looking place. But why am I here? Do I have to solve some sort of problem? She looked back at Pooh. And does it involve Pooh? Hmm...why do I get the feeling it does?

The trio soon reached a house inside a tree with a small log in front of the place. Twilight looked the house up and down, seeing several strange sights. The sign over the door says: 'Mr. Sanders'?! Is that a name? I thought his name was Winnie... Her eyes glanced at the doorbell, reading a tiny sign. 'Ring Also'...oh. I'm betting he meant to say 'ring the doorbell'.

As Twilight continued to observe the house, Pooh walked in and began to raid his cupboard. He pulled out several honeypots and put them over his head, a small groan coming out of his mouth everytime. Hearing the groans, Twilight walked inside and asked, "Um...is everything okay Pooh?"

"Oh bother. No honey anywhere. Just the little sticky stuff on the side..." he said as he took off the last honey pot. "Maybe I should go get some honey. Would you come with me?"

"To get you some honey?"

"Oh yes." Pooh nodded while he rubbed his belly again. "I need some honey for my tummy. Would you like to have some honey?"

"Well, I'm not hungry, but I don't mind trying to help you find some honey." Twilight replied as she scratched the back of her head. I'm guessing that's what I need to do first in this place...

"Okay." Pooh said with a grin. He quickly wobbled up to her and presented his paw. "Will you join me?"

"Um...okay." Twilight replied as she grabbed his paw. "Ready?"

"Oh yes."

"Kupo!" Spike cheered as tiny creature sat on Twilight's head, his pom-pom swaying with the wind. The trio soon walked down a dirt-covered road, smiles on all their faces.

Celestia signed another paper, a sigh exhaling from her breath. Her pen kept floating in the air, quickly slashing through the air as piece after piece of mindless bills became signed. Good grief, why is there so many of things?! Why can't I have a day where I just have coffee, some five-layered fudge cake and a good book?! WHY?! As Celestia groaned to herself, her eyes glanced up as she saw a guard sprint into the room.

"Your majesty! Your majesty!" the guard panicked. "There's an emergency!"

"What is it? What's wrong?" she replied as an aura covered the papers and shifted to Celestia's side.

"Monsters! Monsters everywhere!"

"Monsters?"

"YES!" The guard began waving his hooves, expressing nothing but panic. "A bunch of pitch black creatures are attacking Canterlot! They suddenly started to just appear out of ground and started attacking civilians! They're headed for the castle!"

"WHAT?!" Celestia yelped, her eyes widened at the words. She raced to the window, quickly looking outside only to see a small black patch moving down one of the streets of Canterlot. No, it can't be. The Heartless?! But...it's too early! I haven't even told Twilight about them and they can't be...no. I honestly barely know anything about the Heartless. All I know is what Starswirl wrote and what she told me about-

"Your majesty?" the guard said, knocking Celestia out of her thinking trance. "Are you okay?"

"Hmm? Yes, I'm fine." Celestia flashed her hoof and showed a stern face as the guard stiffened from the sight. "Gather all the guards! Have them evacuate the castle immediately and start protecting the citizens of Canterlot! Get every citizen you can into a shelter! These creatures must not harm my subjects!"

"Yes your highness!" the guard said with a salute.

"And bring my student to me! She is needed in this situation!"

"Yes your highness! We will accomplish this task immediately!" the guard sprinted out of the room, quickly confronting every guard he could find.

Celestia could only sit there, scratching her chin. So...they're already here. The Heartless were last recorded being seen a thousand years ago. So why?! Why are-no. No time to be depressed. I need to find Twilight and protect Canterlot. I know that the keyblade is a sign that the Heartless will appear but...I didn't want Twilight to face them now! I didn't think they would appear for several years. They weren't supposed to show till...the nightmare. Luna... A sigh popped out of her mouth as she began to leave the throne room. I just hope Twilight will be okay after this.

Early Days, Part 6: The Tree and the Pig

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'The Key' seems to have the ability to unlock places and things I would have never thought possible. While I have been studying it's effects, I have stumbled upon something that I believe only 'The Key' can use. It is a locked book. Now this may seem odd to say, but this book seems to be empty on the outside. No letters or words on front or back. Not a single character on the spine. Despite this, I can tell there is something more to it. Till then, I will keep this book and put it up in my study. Hopefully, when 'The Key' truly appears, it's wielder will find their way to that book.

-Starswirl, Report 7

"What do you mean she went missing?!" Celestia yelled, her voice blasting the librarian's eardrums. "Where is my protégé?!"

"Well um...er...I uh...you see..." the librarian gulped, her hooves shaking in fear. The towering alicorn glared down at the shivering mare as she could only stutter in front of the royal pony. "S-S-She just uh...disappeared. There was this huge light and then um...she was gone."

"Where did the light appear in the library then?!" Celestia hissed. "Tell me!"

"Over there." she pointed, her hoof shaking like a leaf. Celestia quickly turned and raced down the hallway. Her eyes shifted back and forth, looking over every inch. Her horn shined as books began to get engulfed by a large magical aura. A small whirlwind of books flew through the air as she shifted through the hallway. As she kept looking, her hooves suddenly stopped as she noticed a certain book. A grim look covered her face as a shiver went down her spine.

"How did...how is..." Celestia stuttered as she lifted the book in front of her. "That's...impossible. This is supposed to be in Starswirl's study in the...oh no."

She stormed back to the librarian and shoved the book into her face. "How is this in the archives?! Who put this here?!"

"I uh..." the librarian's eyes glanced at the book and back at Celestia. "Um...your majesty...I've never seen that book before."

"Then how did-" Celestia looked back at the book. A small lightbulb turned on in her head. "Of course, this is the work of the keyblade." Her hoof ascended over her mouth, her lips trembling. "Oh Twilight. I hope you're alright."

The Princess of the Sun put the book into her hooves and let out a small sigh. Of all the times for this to happen, it's when the Heartless suddenly appear. Oh well, doesn't matter. I need to keep this book with me until Twilight returns. Celestia thought as she told the librarian to evacuate. She quickly went back to her room and put the book on her table. Perhaps this is a good sign. I don't want Twilight to encounter the Heartless just yet, she's just a little filly after all. She doesn't need to encounter such monsters just yet...

She then went to a nearby closet, glancing inside as she stared at a giant golden frame and a golden clad helmet. She cocked her head as she put on the armor along with her armored shoes and attached a long sheathed sword on her back. She knew she was about to go into the very heat of battle. It's been a loooong time since I've done this.

After she had donned her battle wear, she asked a fellow guard to protect her room. She knew full well that there was a possibility that the Heartless were here for the keyblade despite Twilight being currently inside another world. Her wings spread out as she went to the nearest window and flew to the top of the city. There, she saw the slow invasion of the Heartless as the dark creatures began to cover street after street. Her horn began to shine a bright, eye-piercing aura. The guards have evacuated the castle and has most of the citizens in protective bunkers. I'll need to get the unicorns out there, I suspect they will be the best equipped for these beings. A long sigh expelled out of her nostrils as she put herself in a fighting stance as she stared out the window. Now, let's see how I fare against these foul creatures.

"So...you want to get some honey out of this tree?"

"That's right." Pooh said with a nod.

"And you're going to use a balloon to get up there?"

"Oh yes. You see, the bees are buzzing right now. That means they're making honey, which will help stop the rumbly in my tummy."

"Um...okay." Twilight replied, her head slightly cocking sideways. Doesn't he know the bees will get angry if her tries to take their honey?

"Kupo kupo!" Spike exclaimed as he poked Twilight's thinking face. Snapping Twilight out of her thinking daze, she looked at the tree only to see a missing bear. Spike pointed up and Twilight soon followed as she saw the now floating bear. Then the duo saw the bees.

"Uh-oh! He'll get stung!" Twilight said as she quickly got on a branch. "I've got to get up there!" Her body began to leap onto another branch, her hooves sliding over the over-sized twig. "Errgh! Gotta be more careful!"

"Kupo! Kupo kupo!"

"I know Spike! I'm trying!" Twilight barked as she grabbed another branch. "Come on...just a little more and-there!"

"Oh hello Twilight, are you here for some honey as well?" Pooh said as she saw Twilight jump onto a branch in front of him.

"Pooh! You need to-whoa!" Twilight hooves slid around as they slipped on a sap covered branch. The keyblade quickly appeared in her hoof and stuck itself over the branch, it's teeth fully sunk into the wood. Twilight glanced at the now stuck sword and let out a sigh. "Whew...thank you keyblade. That was close."

"Kupo!" Spike panicked as he pointed up again. "Kupo kupo!"

"What is-uh oh." Twilight's eyes shrunk as she saw a full barrage of bees float around Pooh. "Pooh! Watch out!"

But Twilight's warning was one second to late. A small bee stinger slammed into the bear's balloon in a swift strike. Air slowly leaked out as the tiny stuffed bear began to float down. The ground soon greeted the bear as Twilight pulled the keyblade out and descended down as well. She walked up to the small bear as he just stared at the now popped balloon. "Are you okay Pooh?"

"Oh yes. I'm fine." Pooh said as he began staring at the tree. "Though my tummy is still rumbly."

"Oh yeah...the bees popped your balloon before you got some honey, didn't they?"

"Yes." Pooh said as his stubby legs shook like jelly. The tiny bear began to get up, only to notice a small bush by the tree. A pair of tiny pink ears were protruding out. "Oh hello Piglet."

"Piglet?" Twilight said, surprised at the sudden change in topics. Pooh doesn't have a good attention span, does he?

"Oh yes, my friend Piglet. He's over there."

Twilight glanced at the bush Pooh was looking at and turned her head slightly sideways. "Huh? It's just a bush." The filly began to blink as she then saw the pair of ears pop out again. "What the-"

"Hello Piglet. Come meet my new friends Twilight and Spike."

"O-o-oh d-d-d-dear." the tiny pig squeaked as he tiptoed out of the bush. "Um...hello?"

Wow. He's tiny. Though he is quite adorable with that little red shirt and those pokey pink ears. Twilight thought as she shivering creature slowly walk up to her. "Hi there. I'm Twilight." Twilight said as she kneeled down to Piglet's level. "It's nice to meet you Piglet."

"Oh...hello." Piglet gulped as he nodded to Twilight. "N-n-nice to meet you."

"Kupo." Spike said as he hopped off Twilight's back. The moogle began to waddle up to the pig as Twilight began to compare their heights. She blinked as she saw that the few weeks old moogle was just a bit taller than the tiny pig. "Kupo!"

"Um...w-why is he just saying kupo?"

"That's all Spike can say. At least, for now. I think."

"Oh...hello Spike."

"Kupo." Spike replied as he poked Piglet, causing the pig to giggle.

"Heh heh, stop that! That tickles!"

Twilight giggled at the sight as Spike kept poking Piglet. Pooh then bent over and poked him as well. Twilight watched the little sight as all three just sat there giggling. Huh...maybe this is why I'm here. she thought as she grabbed Spike and gave him a big hug. Maybe I just needed to calm down a little.

"So P-P-Pooh, were you t-t-trying to get the honey from the honey tree?"

"Oh yes Piglet. My tummy is rather rumbly today."

"Well...you aren't gonna get it with a balloon today P-P-Pooh."

"Hmm..." Pooh then tapped his head in his signature thinking pose. "I think you are right Piglet. What should I do for my rumbly tummy then?"

"Well...maybe Tigger can help. Remember the time we tried the seesaw?"

"Tigger?" Twilight asked, surprised at the strange name. "Who is that?"

"Tigger is our friend. And he's really good at bouncing."

"Bouncing?"

"Oh yes. Bouncing is what Tiggers do best." Pooh replied, a big smile covering his face. Piglet nodded with the smile as he then turned and started to walk away. Pooh quickly followed along with Spike, who was just slightly floating right by Piglet. Twilight couldn't help but smile at the cute situation.

Wow. This place sure is pleasant. I wonder what else is in this funny little book world. she thought as she soon followed the three cuddly creatures. Now, I wonder what this 'Tigger' is anyways?

A giant barrage of fireballs scorched Sunny Street as the shadows were struck down from the flame. A certain princess of the sun descended down as she summoned another fiery volley. A giant fat Heartless appeared before her, it's massive arms beating it's chest. "You're out of your league Heartless." Celestia said as her fire magic formed a flaming spear made out of pure magic. The spear slammed through the giant's stomach, instantly turning him into nothing but dark dust. The other shadows quickly shifted into the street and slithered away.

"Anyone else?!" Celestia yelled, her voice shaking the street. Her eyes quickly shifted to the end of the street, only to blink at the sight before her. A small pony wearing a long black coat began to walk up to her. The princess did a double take as she saw the tiny pony slowly drift down the street, her sight catching the dark aura that surrounded the cloaked pony's back. Celestia could barely see the pony's hooves, noticing them to be a light blue color. She quickly scanned the pony over. Great Suns! That pony is just a filly! And yet...Celestia gulped at the next thought. She's controlling the Heartless, isn't she? But...why would a little filly like her do something like that?! She's so young!

The filly was just about ten paces away before stopping to a standstill. She stood there for a second before taking off her hood, her face revealing itself. Her silver white hair streamed down to her neck as she glared at the princes with cold dead eyes. "T-T-Trixie...will now defeat you." she stuttered, her eyes twitching as a small aura covered their sides. "Trixie is...Trixie is the greatest..."

The sight struck Celestia's heart. This little filly...she's obviously not in control of this situation. Her voice alone tells this. The darkness must have great control over her heart...no. That's not it. Somepony must be controlling her. The poor foal, she must be struggling just to keep her heart together from all that darkness. Celestia let out a sigh as she bent down to the filly's level. "Do not worry my little pony, I will help you. Just give me a minute and I can free your heart."

Instead, Trixie took one step back and glared at the princess. An instance later, a dark purple aura covered her face as a falchion-esque sword appeared in her mouth. The blade was shaped like a demonic wing, it's edges colored into a mix of red, purple and blue. It's handle showed a blue, cat-like eye and several dark braids. The filly assumed a fighting stance as a thick jet black aura covered her body.

"Hold on little filly, please don't do anything you might regret." Celestia said, her face shining her usual kind smile. But the smile's power wasn't going to work today as the filly just stood there, twitching. "We don't need to fight. Somepony is controlling your heart. Please...let me help you."

But Celestia's words fell on deaf ears as the filly scratched the ground like a bull ready to charge. Celestia took one step back as she realized the situation. Her blade slowly floated in front of her. The other, charged straight ahead. "T-T-Trixie...will destroy you!"

Early Days, Part 7: The Encounter

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The Heartless. They seem to be an unrelenting species. They act on pure instinct, of that I am sure of. It seems that the transformation into one is a simple yet disgusting process. The darkness easily entraps the individual and takes their heart like its nothing. The Heartless is the same, nothing but a shell of darkness. The Heartless merely needs to touch the heart and take it's power. And yet, the darkness is something more while still being so simple. Perhaps that's the reason the light has the power to destroy it.

-Starswirl Report 20

Darkness filled the street as the two ponies stared each other down. Celestia wanted nothing but to help the filly, though it was quite obvious that the task was not going to be easy. The light blue filly's teeth grinded into her bat-winged blade as she glared at the wielder of the Sun. Several shadows began to gather around her as Celestia still showed her usual kind smile.

"Please don't do this little filly. Somepony is controlling your heart." Celestia said as her horn began to shine. "Call off the Heartless. Let me help you."

"N-n-no...Trixie will..." the filly panted as she began to slightly bend down. "Trixie...Trixie's h-h-heart..." Sweat poured down her head as the Heartless shifted up to her, two solider Heartless walking up to her. The bipedal creatures' armor clanged around as they stood by the unicorn. A resounding boom followed as another large Heartless appeared behind the filly. The Heartless looked like a giant fat ball with a pot on it's head. It beat it's chest as it stood behind the unicorn.

Great, another one of those. Celestia thought before two more Heartless appeared. These looked like the solider Heartless but with bat wings. The two air soldiers flew over their commanding master as they stared at Celestia with their hollow yellow eyes. They can also fly. Noted for the future.

"H-H-Heartless...attack!" Trixie yelled as the five Heartless charged at the princess. A volley of fireballs flew through the air in response, quickly devouring the creatures in a red-hot blaze. As the five fell to the ground, the filly rushed in, her blade fully gripped in her hoof now. The filly spun in the air as she tried to cut the princess down. But before the blade could reach the alicorn, a long blade covered in a golden aura blocked the demonic sword. Celestia cocked her neck as her blade floated in front of her before knocking the filly back.

"I'm warning you filly, stop right now. I can help you, you just need to-"

"SHUT UP!" Trixie barked as she charged again. Her hoof shook as her blade clanged against Celestia's, the filly swinging the blade left and right as she tried to get past the alicorn's guard. Two more air solider Heartless appeared behind her and charged the princess as Trixie fell back to the ground from the exchange. Celestia quickly stepped back and sliced one of the solider in half with her blade. The other spun around the princess and prepared to kick her. Celestia braced herself, knowing she didn't have time to avoid the attack. However, before the soldier's feet could reach the target, a sudden beam shined down the street, quickly blasting the creature away. Celestia glanced behind her, only to see five standing unicorn guards.

"We're here to help your Majesty!" yelled one of the guards as the others shot beam after beam at the enemy. "We've evacuated all of the citizens. We're gonna make these things pay for invading our home!"

Celestia did a quick nod as she turned back to Trixie. The filly was just standing there, her face showing a mix of anger and fear. The fear soon took over as Trixie fell to her knees, clutching her chest. "Darkness...m-m-my heart."

Empathy fell over Celestia again as she saw Trixie fall over, pain covering her face. Celestia tried to get close to the filly, her hoof extended. "Please let me help you filly! The Darkness is going to-"

"AUGH!!!" Trixie suddenly yelped as a blast of darkness surrounded the filly, pushing Celestia slightly back. Trixie fell over, sweat pouring down her face. "Master was right...the light is..." Trixie put her hoof over her mouth, feeling sick. Her mind raced from the feeling. Master was right. Just being around her hurts!

Her memories flew through her brain as she remembered what the Servant had said to her earlier.

A few hours ago...

Two ponies stood several miles away from the mountain where Canterlot lived, the duo walking down the dirt road. "A word of warning my little apprentice. Canterlot will tear your darkness apart." The Servant said as the pony tapped Trixie's shoulder. "It is a place destined to destroy ponies who worship the darkness. That is Celestia's power, her very presence is damaging to us."

"But master! Wouldn't that-" Trixie exclaimed before a hoof covered her mouth.

"The Master has commanded you to invade. The Master's word is law and you will do what The Master says or your heart will be destroyed." The Servant grabbed Trixie's neck with a think dark magic aura. "Do you understand you insignificant worm?!" The Servant then pointed to the magnificent city with a scowl, "That city is ruled by the pony of light itself and you will invade it and you will need to pour darkness into your soul in order to control the Heartless there!"

"But-"

The Servant slammed Trixie into the ground, rage burning out of the pony's eyes. "Do you understand?!"

"Y-y-yes...master." Trixie whimpered as she tried to get up. "Trixie will do as you say."

"Good." The Servant grinned as the two continued their walk. The Servant fiddled with it's cloak as they got closer, the pony's mind only thinking one thing. Figures the Master would have my apprentice go on a suicide mission. Oh well, I can always find another young foal to torment later.

Trixie looked back up as she followed the Servant, a gulp falling down her throat. Canterlot. she thought with a resounding shudder. My first mission...

The Present...

Master was right. I have to get away from her or the Heartless will devour me. Trixie thought as she slightly backpedaled from the alicorn. Her horn shined a dark aura as she tried to summon a Heartless. Gotta leave...got to get out of here! Another air soldier appeared and floating directly over the blue unicorn. "T-t-take Trixie...to the c-c-castle." she stuttered as the Heartless grabbed her waist and began to flap it's wings.

"Oh no you don't!" Celestia barked. "You aren't going to-"

BAM!

A giant metal fist flew into Celestia's nose, causing her body to skid down the street in pain. A second later, Celestia looked back up and saw the fist fly back. The fist joined a giant flying plate of armor along with another fist, a pair of metal shoes and floating helmet. "What in the-"

The fists spun around once and then raced down the street, their fingers locked into a punching stance. Celestia's blade quickly spun in the air as her magic aura covered the blade, fire brimming around the sword. Both fists went flying as the blade reflected both of them with ease. Celestia cricked her neck as she stood down the large armored Heartless. Her eyes averted for a slight second as she soon realized the real reason this huge Heartless had appeared. Trixie was gone, taken to the air thanks to the Heartless. Blast it. Guess I'll have to deal with this monstrosity first. I just hope I can defeat this thing quickly...

As another fist flew at her, Celestia quickly reflected it away with her blade again. She stepped back and looked behind her, seeing the guards around her blasting away the last of the Heartless around them. Celestia glanced back at the armored monster and back at the guards. "All that's left is this giant one! I will handle it, the rest of you go to the castle immediately! Their target is in there!"

"But your majesty-"

"Do as I command little pony!"

"Yes your majesty!" the blue haired guard said with a salute. He turned to the others and pointed to the castle. "Let's move out!"

Twilight...I hope they aren't after you. Celestia thought as she turned back to the Heartless. The giant began to walk/float over, it's flying gauntlets spinning in the air. Celestia's horn became engulfed in light again as the levitating sword turned into a fully flaming blade. "Very well Heartless...in the name of the Sun, I will strike you down!"

Meanwhile...

"Um...what is that?" Twilight said as she pointed at a bouncing figure approaching them. "And why is it hopping around like that?"

"Oh my, it's Tigger. Hello Tigger." Pooh said as he did a small wave.

Before Twilight could respond, the bouncing figure suddenly became an orange blur as it knocked the purple unicorn down. The strange creature leaned down, it's nose almost touching Twilight's face. "Uhhh..."

"Hey there! I don't recognize you, are you new here?" The orange black-striped tiger like creature said as stood over the unicorn. Twilight tried to speak only for the creature to stand up on two legs. "I'm Tigger. That's T-i-double-guh-er!"

"I'm Twilight and uh...could you get off of me?"

"No problem!" Tigger exclaimed as he jumped into air, quickly shifting into tail-bounce mode. Twilight watched the creature constantly bounce around on it's tail, a huge goofy grin on his face. Twilight blinked as she started to listen to Tigger sing. The song went on about how he was made out of rubber and springs. That and the fact that he was the only one.

That tiger thing sure is goofy. Did he just say he's made to just bounce? Twilight thought as she watched him continually bounce around, repeating his little song. Hmm...is he part of whatever I'm supposed to do here?

Twilight thoughts soon stopped as she watched Spike follow Tigger. The little moogle began singing as well as he floated behind the bouncing tiger. "Kupo! Kupo!" he cheered, causing Twilight to chuckle at the cute sight. She then saw the bear and pig join Tigger as the bounced behind him. A goofy grin plastered itself on her face as she soon joined them, her filly body bouncing up and down as they all sang Tigger's song.

Heh heh...this is fun! Maybe this is what I needed! she thought as she kept hopping around, not noticing they were going back to the honey tree. Then, she looked back at Pooh and Piglet only to hear a monstrous roar. "What was that?"

"Oh dear..." Pooh said as he rubbed his belly. "I have a serious rumbly in my tummy." Pooh let out a large sigh as Piglet slowly hid behind the stuffed bear. "If only had a good smackerel of honey right now..."

The statement caused Tigger to come to a screeching halt. He quickly zipped in front of Pooh, his hands on the bear's shoulders. "Pooh boy! Why didn't you say so? We'll just pull out the good old seesaw!"

"Seesaw?"

"That's right!" Tigger said as he turned into an orange blur, quickly grabbing a log and long plank of wood. He quickly set the seesaw up and Pooh got on one side of the plank.

Twilight blinked at the seesaw, especially at the simplicity of it. Wait a minute, are they just going to use that to get the honey? Twilight bent down and zoomed her eyes in. It's to small. There's no way this thin plank of wood could shoot that fat little bear up there. It would need to be at least three pounds heavier and the position would be- Twilight's mind became a mess as calculations covered her brain. The others on the other hoof decided to just continue their plan.

"Okay Tigger, go ahead." Pooh said as he rubbed his belly again, his tongue smacking his lips. "Oh boy...I can't wait to taste a good smackerel of honey."

As Twilight was still lost in her thoughts, Spike watched Tigger completely sit down, his tail scrunching up like an accordion. A few seconds later, the tiger bounced high into the sky and quickly plummeted down onto the other end of the seesaw. The resounding fall quickly shot Pooh into the air, knocking the stuffed bear into a large hole in the tree.

"Whoa!" Twilight yelped as the sight snapped her out of her thinking trance. She quickly turned to Tigger in a small panic. "Hey Tigger! Wouldn't that hurt Pooh?"

"Hmm? Oh don't worry, Pooh boy does this all the time!"

"H-h-he's right Twilight. P-P-Pooh will do anything for his honey." Piglet stuttered as he tapped Twilight's hoof. "P-P-Pooh will be fine. He always is..."

"Huh...okay." Twilight replied as she scratched her chin. She blinked at the tree, seeing the bear just sit there inside the tree. It worked? But I thought...huh. If that's the case... Twilight blinked and looked at the bouncing tiger. "Hey Tigger, could you send me up there too? I wanna try some honey."

"Okay!" Tigger said with a salute. The tiger soon shot the purple filly into the tree as she soon found herself in another hole inside the tree. Her face quickly became covered in honey as her body slammed into the tree. She looked up and saw Pooh above her, his face filled with joy as he snacked on a giant pile of honey.

"Oh yummy...you know, it is quite funny what I would do for some honey." the bear said with a giggle. Twilight could only chuckle at the sight. A few seconds later, Twilight began trying the honey herself, quickly enamored by the taste of the sweet nectar filled food. After a while, Twilight popped her head out of the tree along with Pooh. The two had Tigger send up a few honeypots up the tree as the two filled the pots up. The duo climbed down the tree after a bit and gave some honey to their other friends. Spike loved the honey in particular, though Twilight had to make sure the moogle didn't try to swim in the pot of sweet gooey nectar.

"That was really good Pooh, thank you for letting me have some."

"Anytime Twilight. And thank you Tigger, my tummy is full of honey now."

"No problem Pooh bear." Twilight shined a goofy grin, her mind clear of her constant self-questioning that she had this morning. "If you don't mind, could I keep a pot Pooh?"

"Of course."

"Oh d-d-dear...are you leaving Twilight?"

"Well..." Twilight scratched the back of her head, not wanting to say yes. It was then that she saw a small pillar of light in the distance. Is that where I leave the book? she thought as she looked at the pillar. She then looked back at her new friends, noticing that they couldn't see the pillar. "Yeah Piglet, I have to leave for now."

"Oh...okay." Piglet replied, looking at the ground with his ears drooping down.

"Don't worry, I'll come visit again." Twilight said as she patted the pig's head. "You'll all still be here, right?"

"Oh yes." Pooh said as he stood up and hugged Twilight. "We'll always be here Twilight."

Twilight hugged Pooh back, only to be joined by Piglet, Tigger and Spike. The four gave one last hug before Spike sat down on Twilight's head, a certain honey pot now sitting on Twilight's back. The duo gave a wave as they said farewell to their new cuddly friends. Twilight headed towards the light with her head held up high, a grin plastered on her face. As she approached the light, she remembered the last words her new friends told her.

"Don't worry Twilight...we will always be here."

Early Days, Part 8: The Sparkle and the Darkness

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Perhaps I was wrong about 'The Key' and it's true nature. I believed to be a object that can change the very being of both the Light and the Darkness. However, 'The Key' is so much more than that. 'The Key' seems to be an object that connects the very hearts of everypony. I shouldn't be surprised but...I was. 'The Key' is an object that can connect each and every heart. Light, Darkness, Nothing...it matters not what that heart is filled with, it will connect them. Unbelievable. What a truly marvelous weapon.

-Starswirl Report 38

"Keep up you mugs!" yelled a burly unicorn stallion as him and two soldiers ran down the hallways, striking down the shadow Heartless that infested the walls with their magic. Several beams of magic flew down the hallways, their horns shooting down every intruder. "Keep it together! We have to-"

The unicorn came to a complete halt as they cut the next corner. The two behind him quickly stopped as well as a shiver went down all three stallion's spines. In front of them was a small cloaked unicorn, her eyes containing a bright red glow with a small dark haze around them. Behind her was two flying bipedal Heartless along with four walking solider Heartless. "H-H-Heartless..." the filly panted, a small sigh falling out of her mouth. "Find the k-k-keybearer..."

The Heartless twitched, their claws showing themselves. The three soldiers backpedaled as the Heartless walked in front of the blue unicorn. Four more Heartless appeared behind her shortly. All of them were floating and conical shaped with a yellow straw hat with a jagged tip on top. Two were colored red while the others were blue.

"Uh...what is this Captain Blade?" said one of the soldiers. "Is that little filly controlling these things?"

"I'm...not sure. Little filly, are you-"

"Attack!" Trixie yelled, the Heartless immediately reacting. The four floating Heartless quickly shot out fire and ice spells. Several fireballs flew at the guards along with several snowflake looking ice spells. One of the guards quickly reacted and summoned a shield in front of them, negating the spells.

"Holy Suns! Well done Shining Armor!" the captain yelled as he recovered from the sudden shock of the attack. "If you hadn't done that, we'd be toast!"

"Thank you captain!" Shining said as he began to flinch as the solider Heartless began clawing at the shield. "It's not gonna hold! What do we do?!"

The captain gave a quick hoof signal to the other soldier and the two charged their horns. "Put it down on my command!"

"Sir, yes sir!"

"Trixie grows tired of this..." the filly closed her eyes as a red aura engulfed her horn. Her long demonic looking blade teleported into her mouth as she took a fighting stance. She watched her Heartless relentlessly attack the shield, only for the shield to still stand. Closing her eyes again, she let out a long breath and glared at the shield again. An explosion of magic flew out of her horn, a red beam covered in dark smoke flew into the shield, instantly breaking it. The blast knocked Shining Armor flying into the air, his body skidding down the hallway.

"Shining!" the other solider yelled. "Hang on, I'm-augh!"

Two solider Heartless struck their claws into the soldier, quickly taking the pony's heart. The captain saw his soldier disappear from the attack and quickly hopped backwards, screaming profanities at the shadows.

"Blasted monsters! You're gonna pay for that!" he said as his horn shot down all four floating Heartless. Another shot knocked down one of the flying soldiers, but the other dodged. The Heartless flew in and kicked the stallion in the face. The kick was a bad move for the shadow as the captain grabbed it's leg and slammed it into the wall, instantly dissipating into smoke. The captain glared back at the other soldier Heartless, only to see all four in full bull charge mode. He began to charge his horn, only to hear a small flicker. He was out of magic. He had been fighting all through the castle, only to lose it in front of the strongest Heartless inside the building. "No..."

The four swung their claws out, trying to strike the captain down. A hoof smashes one of the soldiers in the face, knocking it into the ceiling. Another two are bucked down the hallway, their bodies flying through the air as they turned into mist. However, it was this moment that a small sense of fear overtook the captain. He couldn't see the fourth one. It had vanished as he had been taking down the other three soldier Heartless. Before he could utter a word, the last one struck where it mattered. It's claw struck his stomach as it took his heart. The captain fell over before turning into a small puff of smoke, his heart completely devoured by the Heartless.

"NOOOO!!!" Shining Armor screamed as he ran down the hallway, his hoof smashing the Heartless down in a violent rage. He slammed the Heartless into the wall, beating it's head in until it was nothing but smoke. He quickly shot his head around, trying to find the filly responsible for summoning the creatures. Trixie just stood there, staring at the lone solider. "I'm gonna tear you apart!" Shining spat as a giant aura devoured his horn. "I'll blast you to smithereens!"

His horn quickly shot out several blasts, several balls of magic flew towards the cloaked filly. However, Trixie just stood there, unflinching. As the attack was just about to strike, a large Heartless fell from the ceiling, it's fat body absorbing the magic. As the last magic attack struck it's belly, the Heartless burst into a dark hazy mist. Shining grinned at his quick victory, only to soon realize it was far from over. While the Heartless had protected Trixie, her blade disappeared from her mouth. Instead, a red aura shined from her horn as it shot a fireball into her hoof. Regularly, Shining would be sure that his shield magic could easily protect him from such a small fireball. But this one was different. This ball was grey and the flames were a distinct jet black color. Trixie leaned down as she closed her right eye, aiming at the stallion.

"Dark Fira." she whispered before stretching her hoof back, as if she was throwing a pitch. The flames floated just above her hoof as she leaned back and then pelted the ball at the soldier. Shining quickly shot a shield out, only for the attack to immediately destroy the shield as if it were made of glass. The blast shot Shining down the hall again, his screams of pain following him.

"No..." he moaned as he tried to get up. "Can't...lose...here..."

Trixie began to march, slowly getting closer to the stallion. As she took step after step, she suddenly tripped, her face kissing the floor. "Oof! Ugh..." she strained as she slowly got up. She clutched her chest as she began panting. "Darkness...Trixie's heart can't take much more..."

I've used too much darkness. she thought as she clapped her hooves, summoning two more soldier Heartless. I've summoned too many Heartless...maybe only a few more before the darkness takes me. Have to...find the keybearer...

Several sounds of clanging broke through the hallway as the two soldiers rushed towards Shining Armor. As they showed their claws, Shining quickly grabbed one of their heads and smashed it into the wall. The other struck the side of his left hoof, a scream followed as the pain flowed through his body. But before the Heartless could make another move, Shining bucked the Heartless straight into the ceiling, instantly destroying the creature. "HA! How'd you like that?!" he yelled as he turned back around from the bucking. But despair sunk into him as he realized he was now alone. "Wha...where did she go?!"

Shining looked back at the hallway where he first saw the filly, only to see a few straggling Heartless. His horn began to shine once more. "Darn it. Guess I'll have to get rid of you guys first."

Meanwhile....

"Hmm...this is very entertaining to say the least Servant." The Master said as the pony sat on it's throne, it's eyes glued to the giant orb in the middle of the room. Inside the orb was a vision of Trixie going down another hallway in the Canterlot Castle.

"I'm glad you approve Master." The Servant replied as they both ate from a bucket of popcorn. "I'm just glad I was able to make that special tracking Heartless work. Now we can see everything we need to see...for now at least."

"True. And your apprentice doesn't know she's being tracked?"

"No. Unless a ton of light is used on her, the tracking Heartless on her should stay without devouring her heart."

"Good. Very good..." The Master replied while munching on another hooful of popcorn. "At least we know-"

The Master was interrupted as another pony entered the room. This pony was cloaked as well, but was the same size and age as Trixie. The little one held a small book in it's hooves as it looked at the Master with wanting eyes. "It seems my apprentice is done studying. I need to start the next part of today's training."

"Indeed Master. Should I continue watching over Trixie and report to you when she finds the keybearer?" The Servant asked as the Master left it's throne.

"Yes. And make sure to get me a name of this new wretched keybearer."

"But of course Master. I am your Servant and I will fulfill your orders."

"Good...and get me some more popcorn while you're at it."

"Of course." The Servant said with a bow. As the two ponies left the room, the Servant grabbed another bag of popcorn and released a small fire spell under it. The pony began watching the orb again, seeing it's apprentice slowly get closer to the throne room. It seems Trixie had more in her heart than I thought. She's been in the blasted realm of light for this long and can still control the Heartless...pity, she's still going to die once Celestia shows up again. The Servant gritted it's teeth at the very thought of the alicorn. Blasted princess of the sun...if only we could snuff out your disgusting light.

Trixie then got to the throne room, her hoof clutching her chest. The Servant merely chuckled at the sight as it popped the last bit of popcorn. "Now...let's see what you'll do next my apprentice."

Canterlot...

"Whoa!" said a certain filly as she flew out of a small book. A small furry animal followed her, along with a small brown pot labeled 'Honey'. The purple unicorn shook her head as she readjusted herself. Note to self Twilight, hopping in and out of books is a nauseous experience...though the idea of jumping into a book does sound fun.

"Kupo kupo!"

"Hmm?" Twilight answered as she turned to her little moogle friend. "Yes Spike?"

"Kupo?" Spike said as he pointed to the room around them. Twilight quickly looked around, a confused expression painting itself on her face.

"What the-why are we in Princess Celestia's room?" Twilight said as she scratched her head. "Did she bring the book in here?"

"Kupo kupo."

"I agree. That is if you're saying what I think you're saying. Hmm..." Twilight scratched her chin as she looked around one more time. "Guess she isn't here. Maybe she's in the throne room. Wanna go find her Spike?"

"Kupo!" Spike raised his arms in joy.

"Good!" Twilight replied as she put him on top of her head. "I'll just leave the honey pot here. Hopefully Princess Celestia won't mind." Twilight walked to the door while humming the tune Tigger was singing earlier. "I can't wait to tell her about that fun little world inside that book!"

As she opened the doors, she poked her head out, seeing if anypony was around. Seeing nopony in sight, the two shifted out of the room and into the throne room. "Huh...she's not here either. In fact, nopony is here. Wonder where they all went?"

"Kupo kupo."

"I don't know Spike. Maybe they-" Twilight's mouth came to complete stop as she looked down at the entrance to the throne room. There, a small cloaked pony walk inside, a few shadow Heartless behind her. Twilight immediately recognized the creatures from her dream. Those are...they're real? What in the-

"Are you...the one?" the filly said, causing Twilight's thoughts to come to a screeching halt. "Are you...the keybearer?"

"Keybearer?" Twilight replied with a cocked eyebrow. "You mean the keyblade?"

"Yes...do you..." the unicorn fell to one knee as she panted for a single calm breath. Trixie looked back at Twilight with a cold, deadly glare. "Do you wield a keyblade?"

"Um..." Twilight gulped, not sure what to answer. "I uh..." She slowly backpedaled as she watched the shadow Heartless flow through the floor, their bodies merged into the rug. Before she could answer, one of them jumped out of the floor, it's claws ready to strike. As the creature was about to hit the filly, a flash of light shined throughout the room as the keyblade appeared in Twilight's mouth, instantly swinging into the Heartless. The blade sliced the shadow in half as if it were butter, quickly turning it into a puff of dark smoke. It did it again! It's like this blade just knows when to pop into my mouth. Twilight looked back at Trixie, only to see a large malicious grin on her face. Uh-oh.

"Heh heh heh...Trixie finally found you..."

"Trixie?" Twilight squeaked as she continued to back away. She could feel Spike shiver in fear as he held her hair tightly. Is that her name? And why does she look like she's about to attack me? Wha...what's going on?!

"Yes...and now..." Trixie panted one more time before a blade shaped like a demonic bat wing appeared in her mouth. "Trixie is going to destroy you!"

Early Days, Part 9: Clash

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Light. Darkness. I have now seen them clash. The very battle between the two forces were overwhelming. It was if magic itself was turned into a violent confrontation of...malevolent destruction. I don't know how else to describe it. I can't help but think that the forces exist only to destroy each other. If that is case, why would they exist in the first place? Are they a symbol of how ponies are? Or perhaps...they are just destined to fight each other over and over. A symbol of unending conflict perhaps? I may be thinking to far ahead.

- Starswirl, Report 52

"D-d-destroy me?!" Twilight yelped as she hopped back, her small moogle friend hiding behind her head. She could feel his little pom-pom shaking like a leaf into her mane. Twilight was also shivering as she looked at Trixie's devilish looking sword. The edges of the blade looked like it was designed directly from darkness itself, the center of it's guard showing it's demonic cat-eye. "Um...can we talk about this?"

"No." Trixie glared at her with soulless eyes, a red shadow misting from her pupils. "T-T-Trixie must...destroy. Trixie must destroy...the key!"

The blue unicorn charged at Twilight, her blade filled with a dark aura. As if on instinct, her keyblade shined a bright light as it pulled Twilight's head forward, blocking the attack. Seeing the block, Trixie quickly spun around and smacked her hoof into Twilight's face, knocking the filly into the air. Twilight fell back into Celestia's throne, a small groan of pain escaping her breath.

"Trixie's gonna tear you apart!" she yelled as she spat out her blade and put it in her hoof. The blade spun like a windmill as she summoned a small fireball in her other hoof. "Dark Fira!"

The grey fireball flew from her hoof as it homed in on Twilight. Seeing the incoming flame, her body froze in fear. What do I do?! What do I do?! Why is she attacking me?! Why is- Twilight's horn began to shine as pure panic absorbed the filly. Then, as if on cue, the fireball struck the throne. But, the fire didn't hit it's target. Instead, Twilight found herself on the other side of the room. Did I...just teleport?

"What the-" Trixie blurted as she spun around, seeing her target now just sitting on the other side of the room. "Hey! Don't try and run away you little-ugh!" Trixie fell to her knees as she clutched her chest. "No...not now. Can't let the darkness...take...my heart..."

Twilight turned around and saw the blue filly struggling to move, a pained expression filled the unicorn's face. Before Twilight could say anything, two shadow Heartless shifted out of the floor before her. Oh no...those are those things from my dream! Do I...do I have to fight them again?! The shadows just stood there, their soulless eyes just staring at the filly. Twilight began to backpedal only to feel a small tug in her mane. Spike. she thought as she glanced at her back. The moogle was just sitting there, still shivering. She could feel the little guy shake in pure fear. It was at that moment that Twilight realized what she had to do. He's just a newborn. I...I have to protect him!

Twilight turned back to the shadows and summoned her keyblade again. Spitting it out, she grabbed it with her hoof and slammed it into one of the shadows. The shadow turned into nothing but a thick messy dark mist. I...I did it. It's just like my dream. I have to...I have to fight. The other shadow quickly jumped into the air, trying to strike down the filly. Twilight quickly swung the keyblade like a bat, only to miss. Oops. I might need some practice with this. she thought before the shadow struck her side, the pain surging through her body. Twilight swung the blade around a few more times before it hit it's mark, the shadow destroyed by the weapon of light.

"Whew...finally got the thing." Twilight panted as she wiped her forehead. "Okay...I'm okay."

"Heh heh heh..." said a sneering voice. Twilight turned around, seeing the laughing filly. "You just got that blade didn't you?" Trixie said as she pointed at Twilight with a devilish grin.

"Um..."

"You don't know how to use it, do you? Good." Trixie said as she rubbed her blade with her hoof, her grin still shining. "My Soul Eater is gonna destroy you and your keyblade."

Soul Eater? Is that the name of that creepy looking sword of her's? she thought as the filly backpedaled again. Twilight glanced at the keyblade, looking at the awkward looking weapon. She is right...I just got this yesterday. Twilight looked back at the blue filly approaching her, the other blade scratching the floor, small sparks flying from the floor. Twilight could feel a sheet of ice blasting down her neck as Trixie kept getting closer, the unicorn still showing a vile grin. Twilight looked at the keyblade one more time. I don't understand why but she wants to fight me. I don't know how to use this or even really know why I have it but... Twilight looked back up, determination slowly lighting her eyes. Just like in my dream, I can't avoid it. I have to fight! I...I have to win!

Twilight bent over, interlocking the handle of the blade into her hoof. Her eyebrows slanted down as she glared the cloaked pony down. Okay Twilight, you can do this... The lavender unicorn quickly took a step back as Trixie charged, her blade spinning in her hoof. Trixie slammed down with a vertical slice, the sword coming close to cutting Twilight. Twilight took another step back and proceeded to block as Trixie thrust her blade forward, the edge sparking the edge of Twilight's sword. However, this block wouldn't help as Trixie's other hoof hit Twilight's face. The filly reeled back from the blow as her back hit the throne room wall.

"Ugh!" Twilight moaned, the pain going down her spine. "That hurt..."

"Of course it hurt you idiot!" Trixie barked as she spun her blade again. "You're untrained, you weakling. Trixie has had-augh!" Trixie suddenly kneeled down as she clutched her chest again. Sweat drained down her face as she began to pant. "No...not now."

Twilight saw the opportunity and swung her blade like a bat, trying to hit the filly. The edge bonked Trixie's cheek, spit flying out of her mouth. Trixie backpedaled from the blow, only for her face to feel the end of the blade again. Twilight kept swinging the blade, the edge flailing around like a common twig. After two more hits, Trixie grabbed the blade with her hoof like it was nothing. Twilight meeped at the sudden sight. "Trixie told you, you're untrained." Trixie raised her other hoof and hit Twilight's hoof, knocking the blade away. Twilight fell slightly back as her hooves skidded a bit back. Trixie held up her hoof as a small dark flame began to float over it. "Dark Fira."

Her hoof pointed at Twilight as the fireball left the hoof, it's speed increasing. However, before the flame could even complete it's journey into the lavender unicorn, a sudden light covered her mouth as a blue ball of ice charged at the blue filly's attack. The icy attack flew into the flame, instantly dispersing it. "What?!" Trixie barked as her flame turned into a vanishing spark. "How did..." Her voice stopped as she saw the tip of the keyblade now releasing a small blue smoke. "You...you cast a Blizzard spell?!"

"I did?" Twilight replied as she spit out the blade and looked at it. "Wait...the keyblade can cast magic?!" Twilight's eyes began to shine as she instantly forgot the situation she was in. No way! That magic was obviously not unicorn magic, so...could this mean that this blade has it's own version of magic?! Unbelievable! If that's the case, maybe it can- she thought as her mind went two million miles a minute. Trixie on the other hoof, just stood and blinked as she watched Twilight vibrate like a massage machine. She didn't understand why her target was suddenly getting excited about her own weapon. In response, Trixie cricked her neck and summoned another Dark Fira.

BLAM!

"AAAAAAaaaaaaahhhhhhhhh!!!"

The fire blasted the distracted Twilight across the room, her body spinning like a top in the air. Her body made a resounding thud as her mouth tasted the room's royal red carpet. Twilight tried to keep herself conscious as she skid down the rug. Her eyes blinked several times as she started to feel a small sensation on her right cheek. "Wh...huh?"

"Kupo! Kupo!" Spike cried as he poked Twilight's face. "Kupo!"

"Spike? Is that...is that you?" Twilight mumbled, her eyes swirling around. As she tried to touch her moogle friend, a long dark blade pierced the floor between the two. Spike hopped back from the sight, quickly running away in a frightened panic. "Spike!"

"It's over keybearer." Trixie said, her hoof slowly pulling out the sword. Trixie raised the blade upward, ready to strike the killing blow. "Trixie wins. Then...Trixie can finally stop using the darkness and-ugh!"

A sudden beam of magic blasted Trixie's left side as her body shot down the room. A shriek of pain escaped her breath as she tried to recover from the blow. Her hooves trembled from the blow as she barely stood up. However, her effort would soon fall apart as she saw the beam's owner.

"You will no longer harm my student little pony." Celestia said as she unsheathed her blade, the sword cloaked in a burning magic flame. "Surrender."

Trixie just stood there at the sight, her hooves barely holding her up. Trixie let out one last deep breath as she looked at the alicorn. "Trixie must...Trixie must destroy to keybearer!" she yelled as the dark aura around her eyes grew in size as she summoned another flame. "Dark Fira!"

The fireball flew through the air like a rocket. But the attack was useless against the powerful alicorn as she deflected the blow with just her sword, the fireball turning into a puff of smoke. Trixie paced back as she saw her best attack turn to ash. "Uh-oh..." Trixie gulped before clapping her hooves. "Heartless come!"

Several shadows shifted out of the floor behind her, the hollow creatures glared at the alicorn and then Trixie. Trixie pointed at Celestia, yelling, "Get her! Attack!" But the shadows just stood there, staring into space. "What the...attack! Attack her right now!"

"It seems you can no longer control them." Celestia said in a grim, dark tone as she stood in front of her student. Her horn shined a magnificent light as several beams of light destroyed the shadows instantly. "It's over little filly."

"N-n-n-no...NOOOOOO!!!" Trixie screamed as the Soul Eater appeared in her hoof as she charged Celestia. As she jumped into the air, Celestia's sword quickly struck the rushing target, knocking the filly back. Trixie fell to the floor, her body slamming the ground in full pain fashion. "Ugh!"

"That's enough. Stand down."

"No! Out of Trixie's way! Trixie's gonna take you down and the key!" Trixie yelled as she charged again. Celestia's blade flew through the air as Trixie reflected it back this time. The swords clashed several times before Trixie successfully knocked it away. The filly then leapt into the air, blade ready to strike. However, as she continued her charge, Celestia's face lit up like a new-born flame. A shining light blasted from her horn, instantly making the filly take flight with a surging amount of pain. A small thud followed as Trixie hit the floor, her eyes spinning from the blow. "Oooohhh...Trixie doesn't feel so good..."

Celestia let out a small sigh as she walked up to the pony. "Listen little filly. Somepony is controlling you, so please...let me help you."

"Trixie doesn't....Trixie's gonna..." Trixie stumbled as she wobbled up. Her legs shook like a leaves as she tried to charge one more time. "Trixie is...Trixie..."

THUNK!

But her statement ended with a swift yet light hit to the head from the hilt of Celestia's sword. Trixie fell down with a resounding thud, instantly falling unconscious. The throne room went silent as the sudden blow had stopped the raging battle.

Celestia let out a sigh as she put away her blade and called some guards inside. What followed was several royal orders from the alicorn herself. She had the guards search the city, seeing if any Heartless were left. However, they were all gone. It was as if the Heartless had vanished like a puff of smoke, not leaving behind a single trace of evidence that they existed. A few hours later, Celestia had the shelters opened, quickly letting the citizens back into the city. As for the guards, there were several causalities. This fact alone besides the sudden invasion caused a new wave of worries for Celestia.

It seems...things are already out of control. Is this the real power of the keyblade? Does that weapon's mere appearance cause these events? she thought as she had both Twilight and Trixie admitted to the castle's medical wing. Time passed as she walked down to Twilight's room in the medical wing, thinking about what Starswirl had wrote about the Heartless. She rubbed her hoof as she looked out a window, her vision now seeing several destroyed buildings in Canterlot. So much destruction...so that was the Heartless. Starswirl did say they run on instinct. That and what she told me...

She looked behind her to a sleeping Twilight, her hooves hugging an also sleeping Spike. A calm smile covered her face as she watched the filly let out a cute snore while Spike's pom-pom swung back and forth from the snore. Twilight...I can't let you fight these monsters. You're just a filly and... she looked back at Canterlot. No. I was too eager. Once again, I made a mistake and it cost me dearly. Now, several guard's hearts are gone, including my captain. Poor Shining Armor...he looked so sad. He told me he was the only survivor from the captain's main squad. Good thing I sent him home. I just hope he doesn't find out his sister is injured.

Celestia left the room and trotted down the hallway. There, she arrived at another room with two guards in front of it. "I want no disturbances." The guards nodded as she walked in. She looked down at the patient, a beat up and barely breathing Trixie Lulamoon. This filly...she's obviously just a pawn of whoever ordered this attack. Perhaps her story will give me the answers I seek... Celestia tapped the pony with her wing. Don't worry my little pony. I won't let anypony manipulate such a young soul such as yourself.

Meanwhile...

"Trixie has failed Master. Just like you predicted. However, I did find out that this bearer of the keyblade is named Twilight Sparkle. She...well, she somehow beat Trixie." the Servant said as the cloaked pony entered the room. The Servant looked deeply up at the Master who was sitting on a large ink black throne. "I know that we were eager with her but-"

"Enough Servant. I have no need to hear your complaints." The Master replied with a raised hoof. "There are other matters to discuss here."

"But-"

"Silence!" The Master yelled with a hoof slammed into it's chair. "I will hear no more of your complaining. I am...tired Servant. Just as you are."

The Servant stepped back for a second, an expression of confusion appearing on the pony's face. "What do you mean?"

"Don't you feel it? You're weak right now. There is barely any darkness within you."

The Servant looked at it's hoof, trying to summon a dark flame. However, it barely appeared, only a tiny spark was there. "What?! Don't tell me..."

"Indeed. That is the power of the Princess of the Sun." The Master responded as the Servant kept staring at it's hoof. "The Light that surrounds Canterlot weakened you."

"I...I see. So that's why you sent my apprentice. I thought you wanted to test the new keybearer..." The Servant said as the pony stared at the floor. "Instead, you wanted to see how far a pony within the darkness could handle being in such a place."

"Yes. It wouldn't have mattered how much Heartless or ponies we would have sent...they would lose. That's why your apprentice kept trying to pour more darkness into her heart as she fought there. The Heartless wouldn't have listened to her otherwise." The Master bit it's lip as the next few words left it's mouth. "We would have lost as well...even if we tried all those years ago, the result would be the same."

"I...understand. She lost not because of the possession, but because of how much darkness is needed to control the Heartless in an environment where they are already weakened. I even lost the tracking Heartless when she was beaten...that means the Heartless don't want to be there...interesting." The Servant bowed before the Master. "So, what do we do now?"

"Be silent. My apprentice approaches." The Master said as another pony entered the room. The third pony was as young as Trixie, their body also covered in a jet black coat. It's hood covered the pony's face as a slight chill entered the room. Several Heartless followed the pony, shifting through the floor while others just walked by.

The young cloaked pony kneeled down as her voice came out in a small rasp. "Master. I have...found the ponies you were looking for. Ponies whose hearts are easy to manipulate and...have the potential."

"Is that so? How many?"

"Four."

"Good. Well done my apprentice." a yawn flew out of the pony's mouth as it's hoof pointed at the Servant. "Go see the four ponies that my apprentice has brought to us. See to it that they become our new pawns. Perhaps they can join the nine others..."

"Yes Master." The Servant said with a bow. "And what about the keybearer? This...Twilight Sparkle?"

"I...will keep a close eye on the bearer. For now, we will use the Heartless against this disgusting light wielder until a different approach is necessary."

"Very well." The Servant left the room as a small legion of Heartless followed the exiting pony. The Master then turned to the apprentice, a large menacing smile curling on the Master's face. The filly on the other hoof, just stood there with a smaller grin.

"Yes my apprentice?"

"Master, um...could we continue my training?" the pony asked, twiddling her hooves.

"Of course Starlight Glimmer. After all, you too will one day face this keybearer." a malicious grin plastered itself on Starlight's face, matching her master's. "And on that day, I'll make sure that you win my apprentice."

Early Days, Epilogue: The Story

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WARNING!!!
This chapter is a bit dark and hopefully the darkest I'll have to go with this story.

The Darkness. No matter how much I even remotely look at it...it seems to be dangerous. Perhaps Clover was right, perhaps it is something best left untouched. And yet, I feel it is a necessary component in the scheme of things. The Darkness seems to be a type of entity that will always be there, regardless of it's unpredictable nature. That being said, I think I'll listen to Clover for now and leave the Darkness well alone.

-Starswirl Report 3

"Your Majesty, please reconsider!" a certain guard exclaimed as he pointed to the laying blue unicorn filly. "She attacked the royal guards with those dark creatures and-"

"Enough!" Celestia yelled, her hooves slamming the ground. "You will either be silent or leave my presence at once! I will not let you take a tiny filly to the dungeons! She will stay here in the medical wing of the castle!"

"Yes your majesty..." the guard squeaked, trying to shrink into the floor. His hooves rubbed the ground as he slowly paced out of the room. "Sorry..."

"Good." Celestia turned her head to the laying filly, "Now...what shall we do with you, little one?"

It had been only a day since the sudden attack of Heartless on Canterlot. It had taken quite a toll on the city and it's ruler. The creatures had taken several hearts as they had destroyed parts of the glorious city of the sun. Thankfully, the majority of the attack was on the castle which Celestia had made sure was evacuated. Despite this, Celestia knew she would soon have to arrange a meeting with the ponies who were related to the one's who had lost their hearts, especially the many guards that had been lost to the Heartless. She had hoped to avoid such things happening in her city, but it seemed inevitable now. Just a few hours ago, she received a report stating that seventeen citizens hearts were gone along with the hearts of twenty-four guards. The numbers were small compared to what she had read about the Heartless from Starswirl's reports though. She could only come to one conclusion from that report. The attack was nothing but a distraction so they could attack Twilight.

And yet...she could not feel true anger towards the leader of the attack. The small blue filly that wielded a slick demonic blade. The one that she could easily tell was being manipulated by somepony else. That fact alone put Celestia on edge. There was something out there, ready to do harm to her kingdom and her subjects. Somepony that would manipulate such a young tiny filly. The very thought began to stir a small brim of rage in the alicorn's mind. She would make the ponies behind this attack pay.

They would pay for the pain and misery they had caused to her ponies.

But for now, she sat in the medical wing of the castle, standing over the once possessed filly. The small pony's body slowly stretched as her hooves tapped the covers of the bed.

She's so young...there's no way this filly did this on her own. She's being manipulated...but who in Equestria knows about the Heartless? The only one I can think of hasn't been seen in centuries and- Celestia's thoughts were interrupted as she saw the filly beginning to stir from her slumber. She's waking up. Let's hope I can get some answers...

"Oh...Trixie...Trixie does not feel good..." the filly moaned, her hooves twitching in pain. Her tiny eyes creaked open as she began to look around. Her brain soon caught up as she saw the flowing rainbow-colored mane that covered half the ceiling above her. "Ack! W-w-w-what the?!"

"Be calm little one. I mean you no harm." Celestia said with a soft smile as she put her hoof on Trixie's chin. "Do not worry, you're safe here."

Trixie's eyes began to bulge as she just stared at Celestia. The alicorn's words barely reached her ears as she just laid there, slightly twitching. She was like a statue, completely frozen in fear of the being before her. Holy magic! That's Princess Celestia! The Princess and everything! Oh no oh no oh no oh no-

"Are you alright?" Celestia asked, leaning down to the filly's level, her usual kind smile still shining.

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!" Trixie shrieked, her yell piercing Celestia's ears. The princess's hooves quickly plugged her ears as Trixie continued to scream. The filly scampered under the covers as she started yelling, "Please don't kill Trixie! Please don't put Trixie in a dungeon! Trixie is too youn-mmph!"

A small aura clamped Trixie's mouth shut as Celestia rubbed her ears in discomfort. She shook her head for a second and then placed her hoof on Trixie's head. Celestia's usual kind smile showed itself as she leaned back down. "Please calm down. I'm not going to hurt you, alright?"

Trixie just sat there, shivering at the alicorn's presence. A minute of silence later, Celestia leaned down again. "Now, if I stop my magic, will you promise not to scream?"

Trixie slowly nodded, her eyes beginning to show tears.

"Don't be afraid. I'm not going to hurt you or put you in a dungeon. You're going to be okay. No yelling, alright?"

Trixie nodded again.

"Okay." Her horn stopping shining as the magic dissipated in an instant. Trixie let out a small breath before doing a huge gulp.

"Y-y-you really mean it? Trixie's not gonna be p-p-punished?"

"Yes." Celestia nodded. "Everything's going to be alright."

Trixie just sat there in amazement, unable to comprehend what was happening to her. She knew what she had done yesterday. She knew she had led a small army of Heartless into Canterlot under the Servant's orders. Why isn't she angry at me? was the thought that kept replaying in her mind. Didn't I attack her and the city?!

"Let me guess, you think you're in trouble, don't you little filly?"

"Um...yes." Trixie squeaked. "Trixie knows she attacked the castle and uh...yeah."

"Yes." Celestia's smile slightly faded. "I was wondering about that. How does a little filly like yourself know about the Heartless? I would especially like to know since they haven't been seen in Equestria for almost thousand years."

"What do you mean?"

"I am no fool my little pony." Celestia shook her head as she continued. "There's no way a filly like yourself would just have the power to control the Heartless like that. It is something that must be taught."

Hearing those words, Trixie shut her mouth completely. She sucked in her lips as Celestia continued to stand there, unmoving.

"Don't worry Trixie, I mean you no harm. I am merely seeking answers."

"And...and how is Trixie supposed to know you aren't lying?!" Trixie blurted out before slamming her hooves into her mouth. Oh no. I just messed up and yelled at her! Now she's gonna kill me!

Celestia merely sighed as she responded. "You know I'm not. Just as I know that this attack was not your doing."

"B-b-b-but-" Trixie's mouth was shut by Celestia's hoof.

"No buts little filly. I told you, I'm not going to harm you. Just..." Celestia shined her warm smile again. "Please tell me how and why you did this."

"Um...Trixie uh...Trixie is..." she stuttered, trying to form a sentence. Seeing this, Celestia quickly figured that whoever gave her this power had definitely frightened her enough to not talk about it. Makes sense. I mean, whoever controlled this filly was probably very cruel... Celestia only shook her head as she spoke up again.

"Listen Trixie, whatever pony that taught you this power and controlled you...they can't hurt you here. I'll make sure of that, understand?"

"But-but-but-but...T-T-T-Trixie is...Trixie is..." the blue filly's eyes began to form tears as she tried to speak.

Celestia's hoof covered the filly's mouth again. This isn't working. If only I could make her see that I don't mean her any harm... Celestia took a deep breath as a small idea popped inside her head. "Tell you what little filly, I'm going to make you a promise."

"A promise?"

"Yes. A promise." Celestia put her hoof onto her chest. "I, Celestia, the Princess of the Sun and ruler of Equestria promise you, Trixie...uh...what is your last name?"

"Lulamoon."

"Trixie Lulamoon, I promise that I will do everything in my power to make sure no harm comes to you from this day forward." Celestia's grin showed a beam of confidence as she leaned down to the filly's level. "I will make sure that whoever did this to you will be punished for manipulating a filly and attacking a city full of ponies."

"Oh...okay." Trixie squeaked, trying to raise her voice. "Um...thank you Princess Celestia."

"Now...could you tell me who manipulated you?"

"Well..." Trixie looked down at her hooves, tears trying to appear in her eyes. "Trixie still doesn't-"

"It was the Master, wasn't it?"

The statement made the filly instantly freeze. Her body turned stiff as she slowly looked at the ruler with a confused expression. Celestia saw the expression and arched her eyebrow, confirming her earlier thought. Trixie could only stutter. "H-h-h-how..."

"That pony has not been seen for almost a thousand years little one...and it is the only pony ever recorded that controlled the Heartless." Celestia stated with a straight face. "Am I right? Is the Master behind this?"

Trixie gulped. "Yes...and no."

"No?"

"Trixie was...Trixie um..." the blue filly fiddled with her hooves as she looked down, tears dropping from her eyes. "Trixie guesses Trixie should start at the beginning."

Celestia sat down on the bed, her wings covering the small weeping filly. "Take your time my little pony. There's nothing to be afraid of, I'm not going to hurt you."

Celestia's smile glowed in Trixie's eyes, the very sight of the calm smile soothed the filly. The filly felt...calm at the sight. Like a warm light embracing her. "Okay." Trixie let out a deep breath. "It all started when Trixie was traveling with her parents."

"Alright..." Celestia replied as she prepared herself for the filly's tale. I was wondering where her parents were...I hope they aren't the monsters behind this.

Trixie on the other hoof, continued her story. "Trixie was in our wagon when..."

The Past...

It began on a small dusty road. Most ponies no longer traveled this road, especially since trains are available. But not the trio currently going down the trail. These three ponies were walking down this path, one in the front, pulling a wagon. The other two were inside the wagon, making small giggling noises.

"So...who are you my little cutie?" said a short blue coated mare inside the wagon. "Tell me your name."

"Trixie is..." a small light blue filly tapped her chest with a big goofy grin. "Trixie is the cute and adorable Trixie!"

"That's what I thought." the mare said as she rubbed Trixie's belly. The filly let out a box of giggles as she struggled to stop the rubbing. "Aw, what's wrong my little pony?"

"Hehehe! Stop that mommy!"

"I don't think so! I think the cute and adorable Trixie needs more tickling!"

"No!" Trixie cried out, small tears appearing under her eyes. "Trixie doesn't-hehehehe!"

"There we go!" the mare said as she played with her daughter. The mare's name is Tricky Moon. She sported a long silver colored mane with a deep light purple coat to accompany it. Her dark purple eyes went well with her coat as she hugged her daughter in a loving embrace. Trixie giggled as she hugged her mother back, the duo laughing at their fun.

In front of the wagon the duo were riding was a tall light blue coated stallion. He pulled the wagon with his magic, an aura pulling the wagon with relative ease. He looked back, seeing his wife and daughter playing and shined a small smile. His name is Comet Hat, a traveling magician looking for the next big break. Tricky Moon is his assistant and lover who he knew would keep playing with their daughter all the way to the next town. There, he believed he could put on a magnificent show at the city of Trottingham.

However, fate had other plans.

As the days passed on the road, the trio found themselves passing by the White Tail Woods, a long stretch of forest in Equestria. Though they were on the outskirts of the wooden land, they decided to take refuge inside for the coming night.

"Are you sure about this honey?" asked Tricky Moon as she put Trixie to bed, the filly already fast asleep.

"We'll be fine. Nopony goes into these woods. Besides, it's not the Everfree Forest so we'll be okay."

"Alright." Tricky said as she made a makeshift bed outside the wagon. The duo had decided to let Trixie sleep inside since not all three could fit inside for now. "We need money. She can't live like this...she's so young Comet."

"I know." Comet said as he cuddled with his wife as they both laid down. "After my next show, we can try to get a bigger wagon."

"Yeah...my little Trixie needs...zzzz" Tricky mumbled, her body already in dream land. Comet could only chuckle at his sleeping lover, quickly trying to join her in peaceful slumber.

But that wouldn't happen tonight.

It began with a twitch of the ear. As Comet tried to fall asleep, the drums inside his head alerted him of a presence. His eyes creaked open as he lifted his head, slowly glancing around. Did I hear something? There shouldn't be- His ear twitched again as he heard a rustling of some leaves. He looked at his sleeping lover, a stiff expression on his face. Hmm...let's see if I can scare whatever's out there without waking Tricky.

Comet slowly shifted out of the blankets, being quick with his movements. His eyes darted back and forth, trying to find out what was out there. His nose snorted as his horn shined a small light. Something's here...I should check on Trixie.

The stallion slowly paced to the wagon, his eyes shifting left to right. He tiphoofed to the vehicle as he creaked open the door. Comet let out a sigh of relief as he saw his tiny daughter laying there, a small smile on her sleeping face. Thank the-huh?! His ears twitched as he heard a brush of leaves. He pulled his head out of the wagon and looked around, trying to find the source of the noise.

Hmm...I don't like this. he thought as his horn began to shine. A small light spell shined around him, uncovering some of his surroundings. "Is somepony out there?" he said, his voice in a slightly quiet pace. "If you are, come out now!"

But he would soon regret his command.

At the start, it was only one pair of eyes. A pair of glowing, bright yellow eyes, shifting through the dark. Then another. And another. Soon, ten pairs were in front of him as their bodies slowly appeared. Ten shadow Heartless. The very sight of the creatures made a shiver crawl down Comet's spine. What in the name of-

"Well well, to think a whole pony family would be out here." said a certain cloaked figure, a menacing smile under it's hood. "Bad timing on your part."

"What the-who are you?!" Comet asked, a grim tone hiding in the back of his voice. He watched the cloaked one walk right beside the Heartless, the shadows not even touching it's cloak. Comet backpedaled for a second as he looked back at his wife. She was still sleeping, her lithe mare form under a blanket. Tricky....what do I do? I have a bad feeling about this...

His bad feeling was accurate as the cloaked pony pulled out a small clock. The hidden pony stared at the clock and gave out a chuckle. "Huh. Looks like I'm out of days. Guess you'll be my last shot at finding a suitable apprentice."

"Apprentice?"

"Yes, an apprentice." the cloaked pony scoffed as the Heartless faded into the ground, slowly disappearing. "I have been looking for one before I have to return home. I can only be out in this disgusting light filled world for so long after all."

"What are you-"

"But I can already tell you aren't the one." The other pony interrupted as it clapped it's hooves. "Heartless, take his heart."

The Heartless immediately shifted from the ground, completely surrounding Comet. His horn quickly shined a bright light, causing the shadows to stop. That is, till a solider Heartless appeared beside the cloaked pony.

"I would give up if I were you." The cloaked one said as it petted the solider. "You should know by the very sight of these creatures that you don't stand a chance. You and your families' hearts now belong to the Heartless."

"Who-what are you?!" Comet said as he grit his teeth, ready to put up a fight.

"I am my Master's Servant. That is all you need to know."

"Is that so? If that's the case..." Comet cricked his head and stared deep into the cloaked pony's eyes. "I'll tear you apart before you touch my family!"

"Tch...you shouldn't make such idiotic claims. It only makes a worm like you wriggle even less than usual."

"Shut up!" Comet said as he blasted a beam of magic at the Servant. The solider Heartless quickly jumped into the blast, it's body disappearing from the blow. The other shadows all hopped into the air at once, quickly trying to strike the stallion down. Comet's horn shined as several blasts of magic surrounded the area.

But it wasn't enough.

Though the sounds woke his family. Though the light from the magic illuminated the forest. Though he tried everything he could to protect his family from this random deadly threat.

It meant nothing. The stallion didn't even feel the finishing blow.

Before Comet could react, he found his knees shaking. His legs gave out as he collapsed to the ground, his eyes turning white. His wife, who had just woke up from the noise, saw the sight. A scream soon followed as the yell pierced the ears of a certain sleeping filly.

The Servant had struck him down. The blow was so fast, Comet Hat never saw it coming. Before his heart began to fly away, ready to enter a Heartless's gullet, he saw his last sight. There, he saw the cloaked figure now behind his body. The Servant had struck him down instantly as darkness covered the cloaked pony, a small grin appearing on it's face.

"COMET!!!" Tricky Moon yelled as she saw her husband fall to the ground. She glanced at the cloaked pony before a pillar of light engulfed her horn. Tears burst out from under her eyes as she began to scream. "WHAT DID YOU DO TO MY HUSBAND?!?!"

"Nothing. His fate was already sealed." The Servant replied in a monotone voice, it's very tone gripped with the feeling of no regrets. Tricky rushed the Servant, only for the pony to vanish before her eyes.

"Why you little-" was all she say before she fell to the ground as well. The Servant had effortlessly struck her down as well. It was as if the grip of death had touched her as she embraced the ground. Her vision began to fade as she felt the ground cover her body. She looked at the wagon, seeing the little now-awakened filly walking out of it. "T-Trixie..." she tried to say, her hoof barely moving as it pointed to her daughter.

"What the...." Trixie could only stutter as she watched her parents turn into nothing but floating hearts. The floating pink objects quickly moved into the mouths of the monsters as the filly could only sit there, shivering. As they finished their meal, they stared at the filly with cold dead glowing eyes. Trixie tried to backpedal, only to get caught in the rubble of the wagon. "M-m-m-mommy?! Daddy?!"

"They are gone child. They're hearts are nothing but fodder." the cloaked pony said with a grim smile. However, the cloaked schemer did not see the next reaction coming as the filly stood there, trembling. Her frightened stance would only last for a few seconds as the Heartless began to get closer to her.

"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!" the filly screamed, her eyes filling with tears. A blast of magic soon followed as random beams flew out, striking down half of the Heartless there. A magic shield appeared around the Servant as fires began to appear in the forest from the outburst of magic.

Then, the outburst was over. Trixie fell over as the magic she had unleashed had destroyed the wagon. Her body became wobbly as she tried to look around, seeing the Heartless now turn into new forms. They were no longer shadows, but Air Soldiers and Large Body Heartless. Energy slowly disappeared from the filly as she laid there, her body twitching.

Then, a long dark claw unsheathed itself as a solider Heartless glared at the pony. As the weapon began to get closer, Trixie could sit there, her whole body frozen in unending fear. But before the claw could get any closer, the cloaked pony stood before the Heartless. Waving it's hoof, the Heartless stepped back.

"Well well well...what do we have here?" Trixie could only shiver as she watched the cloaked pony get closer to her. The filly tried to move, only to freeze up again. Her eyes widened as she saw a certain grin appeared under the dark hood. The pony extended it's hoof and placed it under Trixie's shaking chin. "You...you have heart. Just barely, but you have some."

"H-h-h-heart?" Trixie stuttered.

"Yes." The pony nodded.

Trixie replied as she looked at him with tear-covered eyes. "Why? Why did you do this?!"

"Because that is what I am. Allow me to introduce myself little pony, I am the Servant."

"The Servant?"

"Indeed." The Servant clapped it's hooves, quickly summoning several large Heartless. The creatures surrounded the two in a circle, their soulless eyes staring down the ponies. The Servant merely chuckled as tears of fear fell down Trixie's eyes. The poor filly couldn't even speak in the circumstances, the grip of fear had overtaken every bit of her.

The Servant merely tapped her chin, quickly getting the foal's attention. As Trixie just sat there like a statue, the Servant only spoke a few words. "Join me or have your heart taken by the Heartless just like your pathetic parents."

The Present...

"And then..." Trixie gulped as tears streamed down her cheeks. "And then the Servant-mmph!"

A long white hoof covered the filly's mouth as a pair of wings embraced her. A small bit of tears went down Celestia's face as she hugged the little filly. "I'm so so sorry that happened to you."

"Wha-" Trixie stuttered, trying to find words. The tears continued to flow as she felt Celestia's warm fur embrace her.

"You poor little pony. I'm so sorry all these horrible things happened to you."

Trixie didn't know what to say. She hadn't felt this kind of kindness for some time. She had spent the last six months with the Servant. Months of violence and fear, nothing but terror.

But here, she felt warm. So warm, something she hadn't felt in a long time. Trixie hugged Celestia back as her frown tried to change to a smile. But it still couldn't change. Trixie just couldn't smile just yet. After a few minutes, the filly raised a question to the still hugging alicorn.

"Is...is Trixie in trouble?"

Celestia exited the embrace with a look of confusion. "What do you mean?"

"Trixie just..." the filly twiddled with her hooves. "You heard Trixie's story right?"

"Yes." Celestia nodded.

"Then...aren't you going to ask what happened next?"

"No." Celestia shook her head, shocking the filly.

"Really?! Why not?"

"Because I know I've heard enough my little pony."

"But-" Trixie's mouth was covered by a white colored hoof.

"But nothing my little pony." Celestia shined her usual kind smile. "I have a good idea about what happened next anyways."

"You do?"

"Oh yes, I'm quite smart my little pony." Celestia said as she sat down on the bed with a small thud. "I'm guessing you joined this Servant individual to avenge your parents, didn't you? And this Servant serves the Master, am I right?"

"Uh..." Trixie stuttered, her face slightly blushing.

Celestia gave her another small hug. "It will be alright my little pony. I will help you."

"You'll help Trixie? After all Trixie did?!"

"I will." Celestia back off and gave her a stern serious look. "I can't help you with revenge...but I can help you find a better way my little pony. I can help save you from the darkness."

"From...the darkness..." Trixie couldn't believe her ears. She didn't think such a thing was possible. "Is that true?"

"Yes." Celestia nodded again. "I will help you little one." Celestia gave the filly another hug as she could feel the tears drop down the filly's face touch her fur. This poor filly, she reminds of Luna. This Servant individual is obviously related to the Master. That monster...so it's finally returned after all this time. She looked at the crying filly again and let out a small sigh. I'll deal with that later, for now...I need to help this little one and figure out what that monster's next move will be. That and get some cake inside me.

Meanwhile...

"So Servant, how are our four new prospects? Will they be able to join the other nine?" asked a certain sitting cloaked pony as Heartless shifted around the room, their soulless eyes glancing at the scene between the two cloaked schemers.

"No." The Servant bluntly said, "Unfortunately, they don't posses the heart to do so. One of them is close...but no."

"I see. Starlight seemed pretty determined they could make it. Oh well..." The Master scratched it's chin in response, it's nose slightly twitching. "Still...are they good for basic pawns?"

"Oh yes." The Servant said with a vile grin. "I can get all four possessed and everything. They'll be good foot solider fodder for the light wielders."

"I see." The Master ascended from it's chair and let out a yawn. "I forgot to ask, what are the names of our new pawns?"

"Ah yes, I wrote it down here..." The Servant pulled out a small scroll. "Here we go, their names are Night Glider, Party Favor, Double Diamond and Sugar Belle."

"Alright." The Master clapped it's hooves as four large objects appeared into the room. The objects were large, almost door like in their appearance. The pony then pointed at the four with a sinister glare, "Prep them to use these. I want those pawns to find us more pawns. In the meantime, I will continue my apprentice's training."

The Servant did a small bow as the cloaked pony began to leave the room. "I understand Master. I wish you good luck with her training."

"Luck has nothing to do with it. Only Darkness matters."

"True." and with that, the Servant left the room, leaving only the Master who shined a devilish smile.

Some time later...

Celestia stood at the door of Twilight's room, her ear listening in on the filly that had just woken up and was reading a book to Spike. "Okay Spike, this next part is my favorite. It's about quantum indeterminacy. Now, quantum indeterminacy is about the necessary incompleteness of a-oh! Princess Celestia!"

"Hello my faithful student." Celestia said as she walked into the room. "It is good to see you awake and able."

"Oh um...okay." Twilight said as she closed the book, Spike still cuddling up to her.

Celestia's face slowly showed a frown, her edges going down as she readied herself. She could tell Twilight was trying to not think about what she had just gone through. Celestia took a deep breath and walked up to the filly. She covered the filly with her wings, hugging her tightly. "My loyal student, I am glad you are okay."

"Princess..." Twilight gasped before hugging back. "Don't worry, I'm fine."

"I know. I'm just...glad."

"Okay."

Celestia stood back up and showed a stiff, semi-broken stance. She gulped as she began to ask her student question. "Now, may I say admit something to you my student?"

Twilight blinked at the sight, not sure what to say. She still didn't understand what was going on. "Um...sure."

Celestia fell to her knees as small tears began to form in her eyes. "I'm sorry! I'm so sorry this happened to you my student!" she yelled as Twilight slowly scooted back from the sight, her jaw dropping. "I never meant for this to happen to you!"

"Wh-uh...um..." Twilight stuttered, unsure of what to say. "I don't..."

"I am so sorry the Heartless attacked you like that! I thought for sure they would not appear for another three years but-"

The statement caused Twilight's ears to flare up. "Wait...you knew those things would appear and attack me? And they're called the Heartless?"

Celestia's hung low as she continued. "Yes. When you summoned the keyblade, I...I had planned to train you over it for the next few years. I believed the Heartless would not appear until a...certain event happens." Celestia said as her eyes darted away. I thought for sure they would come crawling back when Luna-no! Now's not the time to think about that!

"Huh..." Twilight rubbed her chin as she thought back to those monsters, the shadows creepily watching her in both her dream and reality. Her mind drifted through the past few days, remembering every moment. She looked back at the princess with a worried expression. "So...what do I do now?"

"Huh?" Celestia replied, knocking her out of her thinking mode. "Oh um...I hate to say this Twilight but...I need you to choose."

"Choose?"

"Yes." Celestia nodded as she stood back up, her face covered in a hot stream of tears. "You see, I never wanted this to happen. I wanted you to fully study the keyblade and all of it's effects along with your own magic. I believed I could have you trained you in certain ways that would help you control your incredible talent in magic." Her head hung low again. "But...that's no longer possible. Somepony is controlling these Heartless and...the Heartless have great fear of the keyblade. That is why they were after you."

"They want to get rid of it, don't they?"

"You catch on quickly my little pony. Therefore..." a long sigh followed as the alicorn continued. "I need you to make a choice. Since I have now fought the Heartless up close and personal...I know I can defeat them. But...that is no where near enough. They will endlessly attack you my faithful student." Celestia gave a sad smile as she looked at Twilight with dour expression. "So, I want you to choose one of two choices."

Twilight could only blink as she watched her depressed mentor stare at the filly with almost emotionless eyes. "Um...okay. What are the choices?"

I don't have a choice, do I? Celestia thought as she sat down on the bed with Twilight. "The two choices are as follows: One, you can stay as my student and keeping going to the School of Gifted Unicorns. There, you will study and learn how to keep your magic under control or...you can begin training on how to use the keyblade properly in terms of combat and magic. Now, regularly, I wouldn't have you study how to use the keyblade for at least another year and a half at most. I honestly thought you wouldn't be able to summon it till then but-"

"I want to do the keyblade training." Twilight interrupted, causing Celestia to stop in her tracks, her mouth gaping open.

"Wh-what did you just say?"

"I want to do the training."

"But...why?"

"Well..." Twilight began to fiddle with her hooves as she spoke up, "Before I got trapped in that book that you told me about earlier, I...I was planning on meeting you princess."

"What do you mean?"

"I...I had a dream two nights ago. And in that dream, all sorts of crazy things happened to me. I saw those Heartless creatures and pictures of different ponies and...and there was a voice that told me that I would be the one who would open something called the door to the light."

"The door...to the light?" Celestia gasped, her ears burning from the words. Her hoof covered her mouth as she blinked several times. That's...she did a 'dive to the heart'?! Already?! her mouth slightly opened. "You..."

"You know what that means?"

"I...yes. Well, somewhat." Celestia scratched the side of her head in response. "It's in Starswirl's reports. Supposedly it is the key to something that connects all hearts. That or something similar to that effect."

"All hearts?" Twilight gave a confused response in return.

"Yes. Don't ask me to know what that means. I honestly have no idea and...let's just say Starswirl probably didn't either." Celestia snorted as she remembered the report about the door to the light. And all the other vague reports. "Starswirl was never the best writer. Especially when it came to...nevermind. Anyways, could you tell me more about your dream Twilight?"

"Oh...well, the dream told me to pick a path. It showed me the paths of the warrior, guardian, and the mystic." Twilight shined a cheeky grin. "You can probably guess what I picked."

"The mystic?"

"Yeah, and it said I would have to fight in the future. It said I was destined to fight and..." Twilight looked at Spike, now sleeping with his head curled up into her side. His pom-pom swayed back and forth as tiny snores came out. "I've been thinking since then. I spent all day yesterday thinking about why I had that dream and asking you about it. Then, when I went into that book and that other filly attacked me with her monsters and I...I...I don't know." Twilight stared at her hooves, remembering the sensation of the keyblade when it was gripped into her purple palms. "At that moment, I didn't mind what was happening to me. I don't even know why. I just...I just knew I had to fight."

Celestia's wing covered the filly as she sat on the bed. "I believe I know why."

"You do?"

"Yes." Celestia nodded. "I think...I think you were just following your heart."

"Really?"

"Yes. To be fair, I don't want you to train for the keyblade." Celestia said as she patted the filly's head. "Remember, I wasn't planning to have you train for it until a year and a half from now. I only had you summon it because I wanted to make sure you could actually do it. But...I understand. You and your heart want this."

"Wow...I guess I do." Twilight said as Celestia hugged the filly. She soon hugged her back until a certain click went off in her brain. "Oh yeah! I forgot to tell you princess! The keyblade can cast it's own magic! I cast this awesome ice spell and-"

Twilight soon began to rant about how she used the keyblade's magic and how her horn didn't react to it. Celestia chuckled at the sight, her hoof covering her mouth. Oh Twilight...thank you. I'm so glad you're like this. I was afraid that the Heartless would scare you from ever using the keyblade and...stop Celestia. You need to think about the future now. Celestia giggled again as Twilight summoned the keyblade and tried to replicate the spell. No. I should just enjoy this moment for now. Later...I will prepare Twilight onto the path of the Light.

"Twilight?"

"Hmm? Yes princess?"

Celestia gave her one last hug. "Thank you, my faithful student." Twilight returned the hug, still slightly confused by Celestia's sudden embrace. The alicorn could only smile at the exchange. I will do whatever I can to help you and your destiny Twilight. Celestia ended the hug as Twilight began to cuddle back up to Spike. Celestia could only smile at the sight as her mind began to calm down. It's fine. Everything will work out. I just hope there are no more surprises before I get today's second helping of coffee and cake...

Meanwhile, in another part of Equestria, quite far away from Canterlot...

"I don't like this cat. Are you really sure the keybearer is on this backwater world?" asked a small unicorn colt with white hair. He wore a orange with a light green and black cloth around his neck. His clothes had a small pocket in the back holding a folded orange and blue colored boomerang.

"Ah, it'll be fine." replied a tiny bipedal black cat walking beside the colt. The cat wore nothing but a flimsy red cape and a small gold crown. "We'll find this keybearer here. My boss's instruments don't lie."

"They seriously picked up the signal here? In this bizarre world filled with colorful ponies?"

"Yep." the feline said with a nod. "We'll find this 'key' and be home for fish before you know it!"

"Yeah...I don't care for tuna. That and your boss is not a cook. At all." the colt let out a sigh as he scratched his chin. "Why did I join WRO again?"

"Because you're the best and WRO hires the best my friend!" the cat said with a pat on the back. "Isn't that right mister-"

"Shut up." the unicorn said with hoof covering the cat's mouth. "Let's just get going, alright? We're supposed to meet up with that moogle bard or whatever before we find this keybearer, right?"

"Yep. I just hope 'the key' isn't going to be too much of a hassle to find..."

The Darkness Within, Prologue: The Road

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Let it be said right here and now that meeting new ponies is not an easy task. Experience has shown me that most ponies don't get along with my...knowledgeable personality. The same could be said with the Light and the Darkness. Anytime a new member is put in their ranks, it seems that the others will always be suspicious of the newest pony.

-Starswirl, Report 62

In a certain mountain, way up in Northern Equestria, there were two small fillies walking up what seemed like an endless staircase. Both ponies were equipped with thick heavy coats and a pair of thick leather saddlebags. Their hooves were fit into snug snow boots as a gripping frozen wind flew down the mountain. The duo shook like leaves as they ascended step after step, their lips quivering from the freezing temperature.

"T-T-Trixie's not sure how much more she can take of t-t-this." the blue filly said as she walked alongside Twilight. "W-W-Why does this pony have to live so far up this f-f-freezing mountain?!"

"Kupo..." squeaked Spike as he hid under Twilight's hood, his body shivering as ice started to appear on his red pom-pom. The little bear-like creature had a small purple coat on with green fluffy spikes on the back of it. Celestia had one of the maids make the small coat, believing the tiny guy would love the thing. The cold however, was still there as it pierced through the little jacket into the warm fur of the moogle. His little paws hugged his small frame as he tried to bury himself inside Twilight's mane. "Kupo..."

"I know Spike, I'm c-c-c-cold t-t-too." Twilight said as she continued to walk. "It's so c-c-c-cold...I hope this p-p-p-pony we're meeting has a nice warm home."

"And some hot fresh food." Trixie added with a groan. "T-T-Trixie still can't believe she's doing this."

"S-S-Same here." Twilight replied as the two continued. As a another blast of frozen wind hit the duo, the two hugged each other as they tried to climb another step. They gave each other a small smile as they kept taking steps. Despite their initial encounter, the past few days had been a bit different for the two fillies. Celestia had arranged that Trixie would be living in the room next to Twilight's at the castle despite the fact that Trixie had just tried to kill the keybearer. Twilight thought about those past few days as they went into a very different direction than most.

A few days ago...

"You want me to what?!" Twilight yelped as her head popped out of her new book. Her surrounding book fort covered most of her body despite the doctors telling her to stay under her bed sheets due to her recovery.

"I want you to interact with and befriend Trixie." Celestia said as a golden aura began grabbing book after book, slowly shoving them to the other side of the room. A small pile began to form as the books were neatly stacked on top of each other.

"B-b-b-but princess..." Twilight squeaked with a gulp. "She tried to kill me!"

"I know she did." Celestia replied as she put her hoof on Twilight's shoulder. "And...I know she's sorry. I told you before Twilight, she was being controlled by a truly evil pony."

"I know but..." Twilight twiddled her hooves as she looked away. "She scares me..."

Celestia sighed at the response. She had a feeling it was going to go this way. The princess could not blame her student for being scared, she never wanted any of this to happen after all. Now, her pupil's first experience with the darkness and the Heartless was with a filly her age. Not a good start Celestia. she thought as she rubbed her neck, trying to think of the right words to tell her apprentice. Then again, none of this has been a good start. Everything seems to be spiraling out of control and...I have to fix it. I have to.

Letting out a small sigh, the royal pony spoke up, "Twilight. I know I said earlier that I was sorry that this all happened to you but..." Celestia began to twiddle her hooves as well. "It happened my student. And because of that, there are certain lessons that you will need to learn."

"So...my lesson is to befriend the pony that tried to kill me?!"

"Well, not exactly. Because you chose to have the keyblade training right away...I'm going to soon send you to a certain place."

"A certain place?"

Celestia nodded. "Indeed. It is a sanctuary up north, high up in the mountains. There lives a certain pony, a pony that was once a keybearer."

"A...keybearer?!" Twilight gasped, her hoof covering her mouth. "Really?!"

"Yes." Another nod. "She um...is a very different pony. I've known her for a very long time and..." Celestia's face showed a mix of annoyance and anger. "She is very picky about who can visit her."

"She only lets keybearers meet her?" Twilight assumed with a cocked eyebrow.

"Correct. That's why you're going to go meet her." Celestia said with a small sigh. After all, she'll actually give you information since you wield the keyblade. For a thousand years I've helped that blasted mare and she didn't even tell me that the weapon was called a keyblade!?! Celestia shook her hoof in anger as some old memories floated through her head. She still won't even help me with-stop! No negativity Celestia! Talk with your student and then cake. Cake makes everything better.

"Huh...so what does that have to do with befriending Trixie?" Twilight asked as Celestia was still lost in thoughts. "I mean, she can't summon the keyblade. Is she connected to her in some other way?"

"Yes." Celestia replied as she left her haze of thoughts. "She is connected to the Heartless...and the Darkness."

"Why is that important?"

"Well...I know I haven't let you read most of the Starswirl's reports yet, so I'll explain to you why that is important. In those reports, it states that the Darkness will slowly devour a pony's heart unless it can be healed with the Light. Therefore, Trixie will be joining you because she can be healed from the Darkness there."

"Healed...from the Darkness..." Twilight scratched her chin in thought. Soon, a small click turned on in her brain. "Wait a minute, you've already contacted her?"

"I have. She wishes to meet you both as soon as possible." Celestia put her hoof to her chest as she showed her usual calm smile. "You will be leaving in a few days my student. Because of this, I wish for you to at least try and bond with Trixie. After all, she will be traveling with you."

Twilight just blinked at the statement, not sure how to respond. She knew she wanted the training. Especially the training over the keyblade magic. But Trixie...Trixie was another matter. She was scared to interact with the other filly. In all honesty, she didn't want to interact with her at all.

But that didn't matter. Twilight could see that in Celestia's eyes. The princess looked at her in a way that Twilight could tell what she saying. The alicorn was saying only one thing, 'I know you can do it Twilight.' That alone caused a small smile to curl up on the filly's face. "Okay princess...I'll try."

"That is all I ask my student." Celestia bent down and hugged her protégé. "Don't worry, everything will work out."

That was a few days ago, though there were a few more events that happened in those few days. Now, the two fillies were on a perilous hike up what appeared to be a frozen mountain filled with freezing wind, endless stairs and high chances of frostbite. The duo huddled close together as their tiny hooves tapped each step, the frozen rock beneath them still icy cold. Despite this, the two endured the harsh weather as they got closer and closer to their goal. This goal would have to be something truly special as the two began to reach the top of the snowy mountain.

"T-T-Trixie is gonna f-f-freeze soon if...achoo!" Trixie sneezed as she clutched her cloak with a tight grip. "S-S-Stupid cold mountain! Stupid f-f-freezing wind!"

"Don't worry Trixie, w-w-we have to be c-c-close now." Twilight said as her eyes were barely open, a small reassuring smile on her face. "It's g-g-gonna be..." Twilight's mouth stopped as an amazing sight shined before her eyes. "Wow..."

"Trixie agrees." Trixie said as her jaw dropped from the sight. In front of the two fillies was a giant pagoda style like castle. The roof of the castle was colored a nice shade of velvet red despite the blue ice forming on the tips of the building. There was a giant stone gate before the castle, it's wall vast with a white sheet of snow covering it's sides. As with many gates, this one carried a large wooden door that looked as if it hadn't been moved for centuries. The door wore several golden handles shaped like long crystals, as if they were doorknobs.

"So uh...do we just knock?"

"T-T-T-Trixie doesn't care. Trixie just wants something w-w-w-warm and t-t-t-toasty now!"

"Agreed!" Twilight exclaimed as they two ran up to the door and grabbed the handles. They quickly struck the door with all their might as the handles made loud ear-piercing sounds that cut through the freezing wind. As they continued to pound the door, a single set of four hooves approached the door. A few seconds later, the door opened slightly. The duo slowly peeked in as they saw the culprit responsible for opening the door.

"Um...hello?" Twilight squeaked as her head drifted sideways through the door. "Anypony there?"

The duo soon stood still as they saw a tall slender unicorn approach them. She had a long light blue mane that glistened like the sun and a shining purple coat. In fact, her coat looked like it was made of crystals as she stood there, a large smile in her face. The beauty of the unicorn caused the two fillies to backpedal from the very sight. The mare didn't even flinch as she watched the two young ponies shiver in her presence. Her smile continued as she began to speak.

"Do not be afraid my little ponies. I...am Radiant Hope. Welcome to my realm."

Meanwhile...

The Master scratched it's chin as the pony stared at the large orb in the middle of the room. It's hoof sat under the pony's face as a scene played out inside the sphere. There, it showed two cloaked ponies walking up a snowy mountain, their bodies shivering from the freezing cold. "So...that's where they're going. They're going to see her." The Master said as another pony entered the room.

"What is that master?"

"Nothing much Starlight. Just...just two little ponies entering a very very disgusting place."

"Ah...is that the temple of the former keybearer?" Starlight asked as she blinked at the orb. "The one that you told me to ignore?"

"Yeah. That blasted pony was nothing but trouble back then..." The Master said while staring at the ceiling. "Though her existence has little meaning now. Hmm..." the pony began to scratch it's chin again. "Perhaps I could..."

"Do you have an idea master?"

"Yes, I believe I do." the Master clapped it's hooves. "Neoshadow! Come to me!"

A large lanky Heartless slowly emerged from the floor, it's body twitched as it stared at the Master. It's long claws started to grow as it's yellow eyes glowed like headlights. Starlight shined a grin as she watched the Heartless shifted back and forth. "My my master, are you going to sic that Heartless on her?"

"Yes...I believe I will." The Master pointed to the large orb. "Neoshadow, do you see the two ponies being shown inside this orb?"

The Heartless only twitched and then pointed it's claw at the orb. A devious smile appeared on the cloaked pony's face.

"Good. They are your next target." The Master patted the Heartless's head as Starlight gave a slight chuckle. "Now...obey your master and destroy them."

The Darkness Within, Chapter 1: Radiant Hope

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Radiant Hope. She is a keybearer I met yesterday. A keybearer! I couldn't believe it! Not only that, she's a crystal pony, a race of ponies whose furs glisten like jewels. The name 'crystal pony' doesn't give those ponies justice in terms of their fur and mane. Anyways, I must say it is so comforting that I finally found a true keybearer. I must find out more about this wondrous weapon!

-Starswirl, Report 49

"Twilight Sparkle and Trixie Lulamoon I presume?" the tall purple unicorn asked, her fur shining like a thousand gems. Her long mane sparkled like jewels as the blasting wind of the blizzard swirled around the mountain. She presented her hoof and slowly beckoned the two fillies with a big smile. "Please, come in. I suspect you two do not want to stay out in that freezing weather a second longer." The duo looked at each other for a second and then quickly gave the mare a rapid nod. The mare motioned them in with her left hoof. "Then come in! Quickly now!"

A few minutes later, the fillies found themselves inside, a warm breeze embraced them as they patted off the snow from their clothes. Spike slowly popped out of Twilight's mane and shook off the small flakes on him. Radiant's horn shined and a small fire spell surrounded the duo, drying them off. After a minute, the duo were completely dry as Radiant Hope stood there humming, still casting her fire spell. The spell soon extinguished as the duo began their trek inside the walls.

It wasn't long till Twilight and Trixie soon began admiring the insides of the walls. Inside that giant white fence walls was two large green grassy yards filled with flowers. A long checkered pathway presented itself between the yards to all the way to the pagoda like castle in the middle of the walls. The two quickly noticed that the only real thing inside the walls was the castle and one other pathway leading to the right.

"Wow..." Twilight gasped, a long exhausted sigh following her surprise. "How is this place so warm? Why isn't it freezing in here?"

"Oh that? The explanation is quite simple." Radiant Hope said as she patted the filly and pointed to the walls. "This whole area is enchanted with a very special and very ancient spell. Those walls are aligned with a barrier styled magic designed to keep out most elements and creatures."

"Really? Wow..." Twilight could feel a little drool as she thought about learning an ancient spell. "That's amazing."

"Yes. It helps keep out most creatures that lurk in these mountains. That and the blizzards." Radiant replied as she closed the door behind them. "Now, Celestia asked you two to come here, correct?"

"Yes. She said you could help me with my keyblade and Trixie with her uh...her uh..." Twilight said as she fiddled with her hooves. "Um..."

"Go ahead and say it Sparkle." Trixie said with a hiss. "It's the truth, isn't it? Trixie is here because the princess says you could help Trixie control the darkness in Trixie's heart."

"But Trixie, you know I didn't mean-" Twilight stuttered as she shook her head. "I'm sorry Trixie, I-"

"Be quiet! Trixie knows she needs help and she doesn't need to be remind-"

"Enough!" Raidant yelled as she stomped her hoof down. "That's enough you two. I don't want my first meeting with the both of you to turn into an argument. You two are here for my help, correct?"

The duo glanced at each other and nodded. "Good. Then let me show you inside." Radiant said as she began to walk towards the castle, a big goofy grin on her face. "Don't worry, you two are going to love it here!"

"Okay..." they both gulped as they followed the shining unicorn. As they followed, the duo looked at each other, their eyes talking to each other. They could both tell they agreed this unicorn had a very different presence from Celestia. While Celestia would always show a side of radiance and kindness yet plenty of prominence...but this pony was different. Though her coat shined like jewels, they could tell this unicorn just looked...happy. As they walked down the main pathway to the castle, Twilight could already see hesitation in Trixie's eyes. Oh Trixie...I didn't mean that. Twilight thought as she walked a bit closer to her new friend. She slowly leaned in and whispered, "I'm sorry about before Trixie."

Trixie just gave her a deadpan glance before speaking, "It's fine Sparkle, Trixie knows you didn't mean anything."

"Do you want to talk about it?"

"Well..." Trixie began to stare at the ground as the continued to walk. "No."

"Okay...I understand." Twilight relied as they walked into the castle. Twilight could only look at the blue filly with a sad frown. Gosh, even though I can finally talk to her, she's still sad. Even after I was able to make her smile three days ago.

Three days ago...

"This isn't working princess..." Twilight said as she had another meeting with Celestia. "No matter what I try, she won't come out of her room."

"I know Twilight." Celestia said as she sipped another cup of tea. "The maids are having trouble feeding her. Apparently, all she does is sit in a corner of her room and shake like a leaf. And when the maids walk in, they quickly leave due to the face she gives them and the aura of darkness around her. The poor filly keeps switching between being scared of everything and a being of darkness...this isn't going be easy."

"So..." Twilight's head tilted sideways with a frown. "What do we do?"

"That's what I was going to ask you, my pupil. What do think would help open that shell of hers?"

"Um...." Twilight scratched her chin response. "I have no idea princess. I just wish I could just get her to talk to me. That or do something fun."

"I agree." Celestia said with a nod. The two just stood in silence for a while, not knowing what to do. That is, until Celestia realized her tea had run out. "Blast it, I need another cup." she said to herself as she put the cup down.

"Um princess?"

"Yes Twilight?"

"Why do you drink so much of that stuff? Isn't it not very healthy?" the innocent filly asked, slightly nervous about her own question.

"I drink it because it's tasty my student. Like that honey you brought me." Celestia said with a slight snort. That and it helps me keep my last bit of sanity.

"Oh yeah, the honey..." as Celestia's last statement floated throughout the room, the two immediately stared at each other in sync.

"The book!" they both said in unison. "Maybe we could use that!"

"You did say that book opened because I can use the keyblade right?"

"Yes." Celestia nodded. "Perhaps you should show Trixie that book and tell her that." Celestia said as Twilight nodded. "I hate to say it but...the keybalde is one of the few things she is interested in."

"Yeah...maybe I can get her to come inside the book! I bet she would like Pooh. That little bear likes everypony!"

"Indeed." Celestia said as she ascended from her throne and proceeded to her study. Her protégé followed her as the two entered the room. "Here it is." Celestia responded as the book floated towards Twilight's hooves. "This might be the magic we need to open that scared little heart."

"Yeah...just might be it." Twilight said as she put the book on her back. "I'll go try it right now princess!"

As the filly left the room, a small grin shined on the alicorn's face. Oh Twilight...I'm so glad you want to make friends. She looked at a certain tapestry in her room, the picture displaying a dark alicorn on the moon. I'm just glad she's looking for friends now, the studies I would have had her take would have taken up all her time to have friends. Maybe I should change some of my training regimes...

The Present...

It did eventually work...with some minor problems. But, it still worked. she thought as she followed Radiant inside. The duo watched the unicorn with skeptical eyes, especially since her skipping around like some preschool filly.

"Come, I will have dinner served shortly." Radiant said as her magic opened another set of the castle's doors. "We'll start by sitting in the den before having dinner."

Twilight and Trixie just looked at each other again, wondering why the unicorn was so cheerful with everything. That or she likes to rush things. A few minutes later, all three were sitting in a warm wooden room. A small fire was lit in the fireplace in the back of the room, the warmness of the flames embracing everypony. The trio all sat on soft cushions as Radiant let out a small cough.

"Sorry about sounding so...well, fast about everything. It's just, it's been a while since I've had any visitors."

"Trixie can understand that." the blue filly scoffed. "After all, you live on top of a freezing mountain in the middle of nowhere."

"Trixie! Don't be so rude!"

"Its the truth Sparkle."

"But-"

"Its fine Twilight." Radiant said with a raised hoof. "It is the truth after all." Twilight just gave downed look until Radiant clapped her hooves, getting the attention of the unicorn.

"Now...before we get to dinner, why don't we fully introduce ourselves?" The duo looked at each other for a second, unsure expressions on their faces. "My name is Radiant Hope. As you are probably wondering, I have experience in dealing with the keyblade and the Heartless."

"Yeah...Princess Celestia said you used to be a keybearer." Twilight replied, curiosity now showing on her face. "She said you used to use one almost a thousand years ago...and you never tell her anything."

"Indeed. That is definitely the truth." Radiant said with a chuckle. "Though I will say that I haven't used a keyblade in over nine hundred years."

"Wow. But you're not an alicorn. How did you live that long?"

"That...is a story for another time." Radiant said as she rubbed her left front leg. "Why don't we get to your introductions?"

"Oh right...I forgot." Twilight said with an embarrassed blush. She gave a small semi-bow as the keyblade appeared in her mouth. Spitting it out, she presented the weapon with her right hoof. "I am Twilight Sparkle, the new keybearer." She then pointed to her small sleeping companion on her back. "This here's Spike the Moogle. I hatched him and now he's my little helper."

"I see. Been a while since I've seen a moogle." Radiant giggled as she watched the little creature let out a tiny snore. "He sure is a cute little guy."

"Trixie is...Trixie Lulamoon." Trixie said in a deadpan tone. "Trixie is here to learn how to control the darkness within her."

"I see, I see." Radiant said as she slowly got up and patted Trixie's shoulder. A calm smile flowed from her face. "Please do not be sad my little pony. I am here to help you."

Trixie looked up with dead cold eyes, eyes filled with despair. Even Radiant's smile couldn't calm them. "Um...thanks."

Twilight hugged the blue filly, "It'll be okay Trixie, she's here to help us! The Princess said so!"

"Yeah...sure."

Radiant and Twilight looked at each other, concern filling their eyes. They watched Trixie as she kept shrinking in her seat. Twilight let go of her hug as she pat the blue filly on the back. "It'll be okay. You'll see Trixie."

"Trixie knows." Trixie rubbed her hoof as she began staring at the floor again. "Trixie doesn't-Oof!"

Radiant slapped Trixie's back, a big grin on her face. "That's enough! No more sad face Trixie!"

"What are you-"

Before Trixie could finish her sentence, Radiant hugged Trixie with a tight vice-like grip. "Cheer up little pony! I'm here to help and I'm gonna make sure that you're happy while I'm helping you!"

"But-"

"No buts little pony!" A giant magic aura engulfed Trixie as she was lifted into the air. The filly began to squirm as Radiant walked back to her seat, a smile covering her face as she looked at the duo. "Now, let's talk about how this is gonna work..."

"Let Trixie down right now!"

"Nope!" Radiant stuck out her tongue. Twilight could only giggle at the sight. "Alright, here's how this is going to work." Radiant pointed at the floating filly. "You are gonna be trained directly under me Trixie."

"Trixie is?"

"That's right." Radiant nodded before turning to Twilight. "And as for you...Celestia told me you're quite knowledgeable in magic, yes?"

"Uh-huh!" Twilight replied, her eyes sparkling at the word 'magic'. "I love magic!"

"Then you need some basic keyblade combat training."

"Huh?!"

Radiant's hoof booped Twilight's nose. "Magic is a great tool for a keybearer my little pony. But...a wielder needs to know how to fight with the blade portion as well." Radiant then pointed to a door at the corner of the room. "That's why your training will begin over there."

"Behind that door?"

"Yes. My adopted son is through there, in the backyard garden."

"Your...son?" Twilight gasped, surprised at the information.

"That's correct. He'll help you in the realm of combat." Radiant then pushed Twilight forward. "Go ahead and introduce yourself to him and ask him to come to dinner."

"But-but-but-"

"No buts from you either. Get going little pony!" Radiant said as her magic pushed Twilight even further away. As the filly went sliding down the hall, Spike slightly woke up from his nap. As he opened his eyes, his body fell off Twilight's back, only to be covered in a certain magic aura.

"Kupo?"

"Good morning my little moogle friend!" Radiant said with a wave. She quickly picked up Spike with her hoof and gave him a tiny hug. "You are just too adorable!"

"Kupo kupo!" Spike yelped, surprised by the sudden hug. His little paws shook as he tried to escape the shining unicorn's embrace.

"You are too cute! How would you like to stay with me?" Radiant said as she began nuzzling the creature.

"Hey! He's my helper!" Twilight's yelled as an aura surrounded Spike, quickly yanking him out of Radiant's hooves. "Don't you dare think you can keep him!"

"Awww...but he's so cute! I wanna pinch his chubby fuzzy cheeks!"

"NO!" Twilight screamed as she put Spike on her back and walked out the back door. Radiant could only chuckle at the fleeing filly. A few seconds later, she turned to the shaking blue filly, still shivering from being in the presence of a unicorn with so much light.

"Now...how about we begin your training as well?"

"Now? Weren't you going to give Trixie dinner first?"

"Not quite." Radiant sat down in front of the filly as she summoned a small object. "I'm just going to tell you how this little arrangement between you and me is going to work...then we can eat."

Meanwhile...

"Okay cat, if we end up lost, I'm blaming you. You do know that, right?" said a certain unicorn colt as he let out another sigh.

"I know, I know..." The bipedal cat groaned as the duo continued to walk down a dusty desert path. The two had been trotting down this road for the past few days, the duo slowly become more and more disgruntled. The cat let out a yawn as he began to speak up, "Stop worrying so much, we'll find the informant-"

"You mean the moogle."

"I mean the informant!" The cat said with gritting his teeth. "And then we'll find this keybearer and you'll never have to come back to this place ever again, alright? Now, would you stop complaining?!"

The colt merely shrugged as he pulled out a map. He scanned over the locations listed as he started to speak again, "So...I know why the WRO wants the keybearer but...are we really sure the keybearer is on this backwater world?"

The cat's face turned red as anger began to rise. "I told you, the instruments don't lie! The keybearer is on this planet and...and...uh..."

"Uh what? What are you-" the colt's head popped out of the map, only to see the sight the cat was stuttering about. It was a small group of Heartless staring at the duo. The colt and cat looked at each other while the pony began to put the map away. "Seems we have company cat."

"Seems we do." The cat gave a small grin as he began to backpedal. "You do realize I'm no fighter, right?"

"I know." the colt replied as he pulled out his boomerang. "That's why I'm here." The pony turned to the creatures as a small flame appeared in his hoof. "Guess this confirms the keybearer is here. Heartless do love trying to destroy the thing."

"Yep..." the cat continued to backpedal as the Heartless got closer and closer. "That's not good."

The colt stepped in front of the cat as he cricked his neck. A cocky grin popped onto his face as he stared down the monsters. "Now, let's see how I do in this weird unicorn pony form..."

The Darkness Within, Chapter 2: Trials and Training

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Okay, even I must admit that 'The Key' and it's powers can be quite ridiculous. That or at least what it is tied to is ridiculous. No matter what I think of, 'The Key' is connected to it. Memories, Dreams, anything...'The Key' can connect itself to anything. I don't know how it works but it's the same with the Light and the Darkness. Perhaps this is just an aftereffect of the weapon. That or it could do more than any other weapon could ever do.

-Starswirl, Report 55

Two certain ponies were now sitting in a large decorated room. The walls were covered with paintings showing several different regions of Equestria. The largest picture depicted a white covered wasteland with a shining light in the background while others showed grasslands, forests and mountains. Several plants were placed in each corner and a bright shining light floated above the duo, illuminating the room. Then, the larger of the two ponies pulled out a small object, causing the other to question her.

"Trixie does not understand. How will a small card help Trixie conquer Trixie's inner darkness?" the filly asked as her head tilted sideways from the sight. The large unicorn in front of her merely shined a small smile as she put the card onto Trixie's hoof.

"You'll understand in a few minutes my little filly." Radiant Hope said as she patted the pony's head, a small smile on her face. "That card is very special, you'll see."

"But-"

Radiant Hope put her hoof in Trixie's mouth as she shook her head. "Stop worrying. Just sit still and let me explain, alright?"

"O-o-okay..." Trixie stuttered as she shook in her seat. Another pat on her head helped slow down the shaking, but not much.

"Alright Trixie, let's begin." Radiant Hope clapped her hooves. A second later, the floor between the ponies opened up and a small stand with an orb on top appeared. "First off, this orb will help me explain how this will work." Her horn shined as an aura covered the sphere. A few seconds later, the orb grew in size and began to show a small image inside.

"That's...a keyblade?" Trixie asked as she stared at the image. Inside the orb was a keyblade that had a purple colored handle, a shining light blue guard and long purple shaft. The teeth of the blade looked like pointed crystals and shined a bright pinkish blue color.

"Correct. To be exact, it's what my keyblade looked like when I could wield one a thousand years ago."

"Wow. It's...beautiful."

"I know. I was very proud of it." Radiant said, a small tear trying to form in her eyes. A small sigh escaped her nostrils as the image changed to mirror version of herself wielding the keyblade. "That...was what I once was."

"Really? Trixie thinks you look really...happy." she said as she scratched her chin at the sight. But...she doesn't look much younger than she is now. And she's not a alicorn. How is that possible?

"I was. A thousand years ago, I was...truly happy to wield that weapon. However..." Radiant stared at the floor for a second as the orb changed again, this time a dark shadow covered the image. "That is another tale for another day. I was merely demonstrating what this orb can do."

"Oh...okay." Trixie said with a gulp, looking at the darkness covering the orb. "So uh...what does Trixie do now?"

"Well...I showed you what I used to look like because back then I knew a pony just like you. He too could not control the darkness in his heart."

"Um-"

Radiant flashed her hoof, quickly shutting Trixie up. "Stop. I don't want you to speak until I'm finished." Radiant's eyes became downtrodden as she began her tale. "A thousand years ago, this pony was also tempted by the darkness." A small image of a gray stallion appeared with a jet black mane. A long red horn protruded out of his forehead as a grey keyblade with a long red shaft settled into his mouth, the teeth of the blade showing purple colored crystals, similar to Hope's old keyblade. A big grin covered his face as he looked at Trixie with glowing eyes. Trixie was quickly reminded of how her eyes looked like that once before.

"Like you, the Darkness began to eat away at his heart." Radiant said as the orb began to show a dark aura cover the stallion like a deep dark engulfing shadow. "The madness and power within the darkness took hold of him and began to mold him into something else. For the longest time, I tried everything I could to help him. It was there that I began to research techniques to dispel darkness from ponies."

"Dispel? Do you mean-"

"Yes. Don't interrupt. Now, I tried everything I could but... I could not stop his descent." Trixie could feel the fear of defeat creep over her as those words left her mouth. "No matter what I did, the Darkness would not let him go. It continued to pull and prick at him, constantly battering and beating his heart." Radiant looked up and saw Trixie shivering at the news. The orb's image then changed, showing the pony change into a shadowy monster. "Eventually, it took him over."

"T-t-then what happened to him?" Trixie squeaked.

Before Radiant could answer, the image changed again. The shadow slowly turned back into the unicorn. "The Darkness swallowed him whole. Every last bit of his heart was gone, tied to the Darkness."

"Oh..." Trixie shrunk into her seat, her ears folding from the news as she stared at the floor.

"But...I was able to change his fate."

The statement drifted into Trixie's brain, her ears twitching from the very words. She looked back up with a hopeful look on her face. "Wha-what did you just say?"

"I changed his fate." Radiant said as she showed a small smile, her eyes obviously reminiscing. "I was able to make him resist the darkness and find a new path."

"Really?!" Trixie's eyes shined at the prospect. "You mean...you figured out a way to get rid of his darkness?!"

Radiant's smile faded as she shook her head. "No little pony. The only thing I was able to do was make sure he didn't become a Heartless. But..." Radiant looked back at the orb as the image of the stallion disappeared. "It wasn't permanent. Instead...it only delayed the inevitable."

"The inevitable? You don't mean..."

Radiant put her hoof over Trixie's mouth and shined another smile. "The card will show you what happens next."

"It will?"

"Yes." The floor opened again as it took the orb and stand away. "That card will show you what you're looking for."

Meanwhile...

CLANG!

A resounding clash sounded out, the noise echoed through the back yard. The sounds came from two ponies. One was a colt, his blade unsheathed as it swung into the other. The other was a filly whose mouth shined a bright light that blocked the sword. That is, till the colt's sword swung again.

CLANG!

"Ack!" Twilight said as the blade clashed with hers, causing her to step back. She wasn't ready for the blow. In fact, she wasn't ready for anything that was currently happening. Just a few minutes ago, she had walked in to the garden, ready to greet the colt that was sitting there in the grass. The back yard had one long granite walkway in-between two grassy field where the colt had sat in the left one, meditating. However, as soon as she spoke up to say hi, she found herself on the receiving end of an attack.

CLANG!

The sound happened again as the two blades sparked from the clash. This time, a certain purple pony fell to the ground, her eyes closing as her body flew through the air from the sudden blow. The blade shook in her hoof as she let out a scream of pain. The other pony merely cricked his neck as he began to approach the filly again. The floor shined tiny sparks as his sword dragged on the solid granite tiles. Twilight looked up and saw the emotionless look on the colt's face as he got closer and closer.

"Kupo kupo!" Spike exclaimed as he rushed up to Twilight hugged her side. Twilight slightly pushed him away as she struggled to get back up.

"Run Spike, I have a feeling this is gonna get ugly." she whispered as she motioned the moogle to flee. He slowly nodded as he drifted away with his flapping leather wings. Twilight looked back at the colt, her eyes a cross between angry and scared. "Why are you doing this?! Why did you just suddenly attack me?!"

The colt slowly kept moving, his eyes fully piercing the shaking filly. His mouth slowly opened, "You are a keybearer. As such, I must test your abilities."

"So you attack me out of the blue?! Are you crazy?!"

"No. I am a solider. That is all."

"But..." Twilight gasped before the colt's walk turned into a sprint. Before she knew it, he was in front of her, his right hoof swinging his sharp blade into her side. Twilight's reflexes kicked in and quickly blocked the blade, but only for a second. As the two strands of metal and steel clashed, the colt quickly swung again, knocking the keyblade out of Twilight's hooves. A small "meep!" escaped her breath as she fell over again, shocked by the sudden counter. The colt just stood over her, his blade at her throat.

"Pathetic. Is this really the keybearer Master Hope told me about? Are you really worthy of that weapon?" the colt said as he glared at her, fiddling with his still dangling blade.

As those words entered Twilight's ears, a small urge spiked in her brain. She grit her teeth as her fear filled face changed. Did he just say what I think he said? Did he just... Her mind began to remember how proud Celestia was of her over summoning the keyblade. Twilight was so happy that she could make her mentor, the one she looked up to the most, so happy. I...I am worthy of the keyblade! Princess Celestia said so!

The colt's eyebrow arched as the a beam of light shined in Twilight's mouth, her blade returning to her. "Hmm? It can do that?"

"And this." Twilight replied as a sudden surge of heat could be felt around the two ponies. The colt quickly hopped back, only to see two fireballs swirl around Twilight for a second.

"What the...did you just summon fire magic with that?"

"Yes. I did." Twilight said as she stood up, her eyes filled with determination. "And you're going to take that insult back. I'm not pathetic."

"I see." the colt shined a cocky smile. "I like the fire in your eyes right now. Alright...I'll entertain you for now." he laughed as he twirled his sword, his grin widening. "The name's Flash Sentry, what's yours?"

"Twilight Sparkle."

"Twilight Sparkle, eh? Not a bad name." Flash patted his shoulder with his weapon as his other hoof grabbed another object on his back. It was a circular shield with a large emblem of the sun on it's center. "Alright, I'll take you on. You ready?"

"Um..." Twilight gulped, her body shaking. "I uh..."

"Something wrong?"

"No..." Twilight shook her head. Except the part that I don't know how to fight with a sword! Ugh...I thought I was here to study how to use the keyblade, not full on fighting. And on the first day! Where's a book when I need one...

"Good. If you impress me, I'll help train you in the ways of the sword." Flash put himself in a fighting stance, his shield ready to defend from any magic attack. "Let's begin. I want to see how skilled you really are, magic and everything!"

"Er..." Twilight gulped as she tried to put herself in a defensive stance. Uh-oh. Why did I have to get so riled up from that insult?! Why can't I just study about this instead?! Her mind raced as she gulped on last time. "This isn't gonna be easy, is it?"

"Nope." Flash cricked his neck again as he spread his wings. His grin grew just a little as his feathers began to flap. Twilight could tell he was read to charge into her. She braced herself as he opened his mouth one more time. "Now, it's showtime! Show me what you got 'keybearer'!"

Meanwhile...

"How far away is the Neoshadow Master?" Starlight asked as she wiped her forehead with a towel, her daily training done for the day.

"Not far. The Heartless will soon arrive at that pathetic little castle." The Master scoffed as the pony laid back in it's chair. "Soon it will face the keybearer."

"And if it fails?"

"It'll be fine. Even if it does, it won't really matter." The Master said as it poured itself a drink. "In the end, the darkness will win even if she does survive. Besides, she could be useful if she survives the Heartless."

"True." Starlight replied as she looked across the room. On the other side, another cloaked pony slowly appeared. "Servant?"

"Hello Starlight." The Servant said with a slight cough. The pony turned it's attention to The Master with a small grin. "I am here with a report Master."

"Go ahead."

"The four your apprentice brought have been...converted. Three of them in particular easily fell to the darkness."

"And the fourth?"

"The one called Night Glider, my Master. She is a Pegasus with a bit more...will than the others." The Servant shook it's cloak as several Heartless began to shift around the floor under the Servant's hooves. "Thankfully, after seeing her friends so easily succumb to the darkness, her heart was easy to break."

"And they haven't turned into Heartless?" Starlight asked, surprised at the Servant's quick work.

"No. They are completely under my control."

"Good." The Master said as it lifted itself from it's throne. "Prepare the portals. I want them sent out as soon as possible."

The Servant bowed, a small grin on the pony's face. "As you wish Master. They will spread darkness to all worlds if need be." The Servant then left the room, leaving the other two with big grins on their faces as well.

"Good. Now..." The Master then flinched, as if the pony felt a shiver down it's spine. It's body fell over as the pony rubbed it's forehead in distress.

"Master? Are you alright?" Starlight immediately asked as she watched the Master slightly fall over.

"I'm fine. Just...surprised."

"Surprised?"

"Yes...I just felt a bunch of darkness being destroyed. A group of Heartless to be exact."

"What do you mean? Was it the keybearer?"

"No..." the Master turned to it's apprentice with a scowl on it's face. "It means there are outsiders in Equestria."

Starlight gasped at the statement. "You don't mean...beings from other worlds do you?"

"Maybe..." The Master rubbed it's chin as a thought went through the pony's head. "I have always kept the Heartless's existence a secret. That is, till a new keybearer appeared. Then I didn't have a choice but to reveal them, I had to know if this light wielder is dangerous or not. However..."

"Some were actually destroyed? No normal magic can defeat them, you know. Only somepony that was taught how to fight the Heartless can properly take them on." Starlight replied, gritting her teeth. "Does that mean somepony is on to us?"

"Not quite..." The Master said as it stood there for a second before turning to Starlight with a devilish grin. "But perhaps I should have you take a look at our new off world visitors."

The Darkness Within, Chapter 3: Failure

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The Heartless are quite possibly the most diverse species of creatures I have ever met. They come in all shapes and sizes. There are giant Heartless, like the Large Body, a fat ball like Heartless with a kettle on it's head. Another is the Air Soldier, a bipedal Heartless solider with thin bat wings. There are also small Heartless, like the Shadows which look like tiny bug-like beings. There are even object-like Heartess! There's this one I call the Crescendo, a Heartless that looks like a trumpet combined with a horn! Perhaps these creatures despite their violent nature have a light comedy side to them.

-Starswirl, Report 21

"It's seems I was wrong." Flash said as he poked Twilight with his sword, an unapproving frown on his face. On the ground was a beaten Twilight, her body covered in bruises. "How sad. Are you really a keybearer?"

"Y-yes...I am." Twilight coughed, her eyes glaring at the towering colt. "I can-"

"Nope." Flash interrupted as he swung his blade back into his sheath. "I don't think you are."

"But-" Twilight said as she tried to raise her hoof, only to see Flash was already walking away. Spike quickly floated up to her and patted her head.

"Kupo." Spike said in a downtrodden tone.

Twilight looked at the moogle and barely hugged the little bear back. Small tears began to appear in her eyes as she tried to get up. "Darn it..."

Inside the castle...

"So...this card will call out my inner darkness?" Trixie asked as she poked the card, her eyebrow arched in skepticism.

Radiant slightly shook her head. "Not exactly. It will...call to your heart. There, it will decide whether to pull out the darkness inside of you...or the light."

"Or the light? Isn't that bad?" Trixie replied, confused by the statement.

"Not at all." Radiant said as she put her hoof on Trixie's shoulder. A calm smile on her face slowly appeared as she sat down to Trixie's level. "Both Light and Darkness are within you. Whatever you fear in your heart, this will help draw it out."

"What happens if I fear the light?"

"Then you will have to conquer it instead."

"Oh." Trixie rubbed her chin as she blinked at the card again. A gulp went down her throat as she kept staring at the object. A few seconds later, Trixie looked back at the mare. "Um...can I have some time to think?"

"Of course." Radiant said with a nod. "Take all the time you need." The crystal pony quickly walked out of the room, a magic aura grabbing the doorknob as she left.

Trixie sat on her cushion, staring deeply into the card. Memories swirled in her head as she remembered her time under the Servant. She remembered when the pony of darkness would beat her everyday, showing her the magic of darkness. She sighed as she looked at the card, remembering the dark magic she would use. Huh. It's weird...I hated being under that monster for so long. All that pony would talk about is darkness this and darkness that and yet, all I can think about is the darkness. She told me this card would bring it out...do I want that?

Trixie put the card on the floor and crossed her hooves, remembering more and more of her training in the ways of dark magic. The past flew through her mind, the very thoughts gave a shiver down her spine. The Servant... she thought as she looked her hoof, the Soul Eater blade appearing in it along with a puff of dark smoke. Soul Eater. I can still summon it with ease. But...does that mean that's all I am now? Am I exactly what the Servant said I am? Just a... Tears began to form under her eyes. Just a pony of darkness?

Meanwhile...

Radiant walked down one of the castle's hallways, a slight frown on her face. She could tell that this wasn't going to be easy with Trixie. She's just like him. she thought as she walked into the kitchen. Several utensils began floating through the air as she opened one of the cabinets. It's always going to be like that, isn't it?

Before she could do anything else, her ears picked up the kitchen's door opening behind her. Her head lifted up, only to see a certain colt. "Flash! Where is Twilight? Isn't she with you for dinner?" she exclaimed, surprised at the sight. She thought she wouldn't see him for at least another hour.

"No. And I'm not training her." Flash grunted as he went to the refrigerator.

"WHAT?!" Radiant yelped as her horn began to spark. An aura quickly grabbed Flash's ear and began to pull. "What did you do?!"

"Hey! Let me go! That hurts!" he yelped in pain.

"It'll stop hurting after you tell me why you won't train her! You beat her up, didn't you?!"

"She's weak! She doesn't deserve-mmph!"

Another aura shut his mouth as his whole body was shifted in front of Radiant. Her eyes narrowed as she stared deep into the colt's eyes, it felt like to drills piercing into his soul as she glared at him. "Oh really?! And what right do you have to decide that?!"

"Mmmph!"

SMACK!

A resounding slap knocked Flash around, his head spinning from the blow. "Ow...what did you do that for?!"

"She is Celestia's student Flash!" Radiant exclaimed as her hoof grabbed Flash's noggin. His face was then placed directly in from of hers. "Did you really think you can just tell her no?!"

"But-"

"No buts Flash!" Radiant yelled as spit flew into Flash's face. "You will go back to the training ground and you will apologize to her this instance!"

Finally realizing the trouble he was in, he let out a silent nod as he quickly ran out of the room, fear covering his face. Radiant yelled at his leaving pace, anger blasting out of her voice. "You're grounded by the way!" Radiant turned back to the kitchen counter and levitated a knife. "Blasted ungrateful kid...all I told him was what a keyblade is and how he isn't going to get one and all he...grr! Why is he so bent on being a solider?!" She facehoofed as she continued to talk to herself. "Ugh! I wish their was some manual on kids..."

Meanwhile...

Another sigh came out of Trixie's mouth as she continued to stare at the card. She had been staring at it for over ten minutes, her eyes unmoving at the sight. I don't know...I just don't know.

As she continued her depressive state, her ears picked up a small scraping sound from across the room. She looked up, only for her eyes to grow at the sight entering the room. "Sparkle!"

It was Twilight. She was barely moving as she used her keyblade as a half-crutch to move into the room as Spike sat on her head, a sad look plastered on his face. "Kupo kupo..." he said as he continued to hug her head, trying to comfort the filly.

"Sparkle! What happened to you?!" Trixie yelped as she ran up to the beaten up filly, her expression changing to worry.

"Hi Trixie..." Twilight said with a cough. "Nothing much. Just got beat up is all..." she strained to say as Trixie grabbed her side, propping her up.

"Just got beat up? You look like a carriage ran you over Sparkle! Who did this to you?!"

"Oh...just that uh...Flash guy. At least, I think that was his name...he beat the snot out of me." Twilight said as she began to slump over. "He said he wouldn't train me..."

"Oh." Trixie said as she walked Twilight over to the floor cushions. She placed the battered filly on the cushion while worry continued to cover her face. Flash huh? Must be the adopted son Miss Radiant was talking about. Trixie sat down by the filly as Spike flew off her and sat on top of Trixie's head.

"Kupo." Spike said as he pointed at Trixie and then Twilight.

"Huh?" Trixie replied as she started to get what he was implying. "Uh...sorry Spike. Trixie doesn't know healing magic."

"It's fine Spike." Twilight groaned with a swaying hoof. "I just need some rest."

"But Sparkle-"

"I'll be fine. Trust me." Twilight said as she placed her hoof on Trixie's, a shining but weak smile slowly appearing on her face. "How's your training going Trixie?"

"Hmm?" Trixie began to stare at the floor with a large frown. "Not well, Trixie guesses..."

"What do you mean? Isn't that nice Radiant Hope lady gonna train you?"

Trixie shook her head as she showed Twilight the card and told her what it could do. After a minute of explaining or so, Twilight gave Trixie a confused look. "Wait a minute Trixie...you don't want to face your darkness? I thought that was the reason you came here."

"Didn't you listen to Trixie? She said Trixie's light could come out instead!" Trixie exclaimed as tears began to form under her eyes.

"So?"

"Don't you get it?! If Trixie's light comes out instead, I-I-I...Trixie will only have the darkness to defend herself!"

"So?" Twilight repeated.

"So that means that Trixie has to be dark evil pony if that happens!" Trixie yelled as her tears flowed down her face. "Trixie will become what Trixie hates!"

"No you won't."

"Wha-" Trixie stuttered, unable to understand what Twilight just said.

"You won't become that."

"And how do you know that?!" Trixie barked, her face turning red from the statement.

"Cuz you're Trixie." Twilight said as she tried to stand up. "I know you're not evil. You're Trixie. Remember what happened when we finally started getting along?"

"What are you-" Trixie stopped, her mind reeling. Memories flowed through her head as Twilight's words entered her ears.

A few days ago...

"Huh?" Trixie said, her expression turning into a look of disbelief. "A book that only the keyblade can open?"

It had taken an hour or so, but Twilight had finally gotten inside Trixie's room after talking to Celestia about using Pooh's book to help her. In reality, things still didn't go well due to Trixie basically not wanting to see anypony. Thankfully, Twilight was just optimistic enough to get inside...after an hour of waiting.

"It's true. Want me to show you?" Twilight said as she gave the locked book to Trixie. "Try and open it."

"Well..." Trixie looked at the blank covered book, a look of skepticism on her face. She presented her hooves to hold the novel, looking it over in curiosity. Then, she tried to open it. "Hmm? What the-" she began to wrangle her hooves around the book, straining to make it even slightly open. "It won't open!"

"I know. Only a keybearer can open it."

After a few attempts, Trixie gave her the book back with a glare. "Show Trixie."

Twilight gave a cheeky grin as her hooves easily opened the book. A bright light shined as it filled the room. Trixie tried to cover her eyes as the light embraced the her. "Augh! Too bright!"

When Trixie opened her eyes again, she saw she was no longer in her room. Instead, she was in a forest that looked like it was made out of watercolor painting. She blinked several times as she glanced at her surroundings. "No way..."

"Neat huh? Me and Spike thought it was cool too when we first came here." Twilight said with a big smile before thinking about her companion. "Too bad the little guy is asleep in his crib. Then again, he's just a baby after all."

"Amazing. Is Trixie really inside that book?"

"That's right." Twilight nodded and then put her hoof around Trixie's shoulder. "Come on, let me introduce you to Pooh! He's super friendly and nice!"

"Uhhh....Trixie doesn't know about this. Trixie thinks this place has a bit too much light."

"Too much light? What do you mean?"

"Well...light hurts Trixie." Trixie said as she started looking around for a exit. "Maybe Trixie should leave."

Twilight's grip on the blue filly's shoulder started the tighten. "Oh no you don't. You and me are gonna go see Pooh and become friends with him."

"But-"

"No buts. Let's go!"

The Present...

"If you were bad, you wouldn't have become friends with Pooh and his friends. Same with me and Spike." Twilight gave Trixie a big hug as a small tear went down Trixie's cheek. "We're friends, right?"

"Yeah..." Trixie whispered as she hugged Twilight back. "You...you're Trixie's friend. Trixie guesses that's true."

"Then that means you aren't evil! You're Trixie!"

"But-"

"She's right you know." said a voice, causing the two to look across the room. There, they saw the voice's owner, Radiant Hope. The unicorn began to walk over to the duo with a small smile. "No matter what that card unleashes little pony, you will still be you. Nothing can change that."

"But...Trixie is..."

Radiant then patted Trixie on the back while wearing a cheeky grin. "It'll be fine girl, listen to your friend and stop worrying!" She turned to Twilight and gave a lesser smile as she then said, "Oh and uh...sorry about Flash Twilight. I made sure he's going to make it up to you."

"Huh? Oh...that's okay Miss Hope. I lost and-"

"No need to be humble dear." Radiant said as her horn began to glow. A spell soon embraced Twilight as a long green vine with leaves wrapped around Twilight's body, soothing her wounds. "Let me heal you up and then you and him can have a nice long chat like I just did a few minutes ago with that impatient little tyrant. He should have never done that to you."

"Okay..." Twilight said with a lowered head, a frown popping onto her face. "I'll uh...go see him."

Radiant's hoof raised Twilight's chin as she shined a calm smile to the filly. "Don't worry. He's a good colt with a strong heart once you get to know him. I probably wouldn't have adopted him if he wasn't." She then rubbed Twilight's mane and pointed to the door. "Now, go and hear his apology!" she then bent over and whispered into Twilight's ear. "And if he doesn't apologize, tell me and he'll know that he has too."

"Alright." Twilight nodded as Spike hopped back onto her head. Twilight looked at Trixie on more time, only for Radiant to tell her that everything was going to be okay for her blue colored friend. The purple pony soon left the room, leaving the duo.

"Okay Trixie, have you made your decision?"

Trixie looked back at the card one last time. "Yeah...Trixie thinks she has."

"Good." Radiant patted Trixie's head with a big goofy grin. "You can tell me all about it after dinner...or probably tomorrow depending on how tired you all are."

Canterlot...

A small aura float through the throne room as it levitated a small cup of coffee, the cup's contents slightly swaying as it got closer to Celesita's lips. She gave a deadpan look as the coffee entered her system as she stared at the last documents for the day. Ahh...this is why I work. Good old bean and brew...

Her ears soon twitched as two ponies entered the room, her eyes lifting up from the paper. She blinked as she watched her visitor enter with smiles on their faces. "Cadance. Thank you for coming."

"Good evening auntie." a pink alicorn as she strode into the room. Her face was a combination of confusion and fear. "I would say that I'm surprised you summoned me but...I'm gonna guess that this is all about the monster attack that happened a few days ago."

Celestia shook her head as she put her cup down. "Well...actually no. Well, it actually kind of has to do with the attack but...not really."

"Um auntie...I don't mean to be rude but, what is this about?"

"Before I begin, I honestly want to say I'm sorry asking you to come back to Canterlot."

Cadance shook her head. "It's fine auntie, I don't mind."

"Now, I wanted Blueblood to be here as well since he is royalty but...guess we'll have to improvise. You're here to help me with negotations."

"Negotiations?" Cadance was taken back by the statement.

"Indeed. This is why you're here." Celestia said as two guards brought in a giant covered mirror. Cadance cocked her eyebrow as she looked at the massive object before turning back to Celestia. Soon, a certain magic aura took control of the sheet hanging over it, slowly stripping the mirror of it's covering. Cadance blinked as she saw a glimmer of magic cover the mirror, it's surface starting to shine.

"I don't understand. How is a mirror part of negotiations?"

"You'll soon see." Celestia said as the mirror stopped showing Cadance's reflection. It started to show a dark swirl of magic as Celestia let out a groan. "It seems an old acquaintance of mine is trying to do some things in my kingdom under my nose." Cadance could only cringe at that statement, especially due to Celestia's slowly changing face. The alicorn's kind expression turned to a slightly annoyed one. "An old acquaintance that calls itself the WRO."

The training grounds in Radiant Hope's Castle...

"Stupid mother. Can't believe I have to sit and apologize to that weakling..." Flash grumbled and he sat there, pouting with his hooves crossed. "Why can't she see that I'm a great warrior?!"

As he sat there, his anger continued to boil. His eyes twitched at the thought of apologizing. That is, till he felt something else. A shiver down his spine. His eyes stop squinting as he felt his body tense up. His ears flickered as he heard something move the grass around him. He curled his hoof as he slowly moved his hoof to his sheathed sword on his back. Slowly Flash...something's here. I can feel it. he thought as the colt's hoof grabbed the hilt of the blade. He slowly turned his head, trying to see the intruder.

But he was too late.

"Whoa!" Flash yelped as he tried to take flight before a claw struck his side. A surge of pain striking through his body as he fell to the ground, his body rolling in the grass. "Ugh! What the-"

Then, his eyes saw the intruder. Holy...is that a- he thought as another claw tried to strike him. This time he was ready as he rolled back, quickly dodging the attack. He fully pulled out his blade as he stared at his enemy. It was long lanky Heartless with soulless yellow eyes. It's claws extended as it's noodle like ligaments swayed around randomly. It was the Neoshadow.

"Okay...you're ugly." he said as he pointed his weapon at the enemy. "Let's see how you like my blade."

The Heartless merely stood there as Flash spread his colt wings, cricking his neck as he readied to attack. The pony then charged with sword ready. As he about to strike the shadow down, the Heartless suddenly shifted into the floor. The sudden reaction caused Flash to stumble as his skidded down through the grass. "What the-"

But he was too late as the Neoshadow shifted back out, his claw striking the colt's side again.

"Augh!" he yelped as the pain surged through his body, his hoof letting go of his sword. He closed his eyes as the pain kept piercing his side. It hurts! Darn it... As his eyes slowly opened, quickly seeing the Neoshadow get closer and closer. It's claw rose up, pointing at the sky above. It was about to strike the final blow.

As the claw just stood there, Flash could lay there in fear. His heart was about to be taken and he couldn't move. The pain was too much. Then, as the claw began to move again...

SMASH!

The Neoshadow went flying through the air, it's body spinning like a top. Flash's eyes widened as he saw a certain filly walk in front of him, her keyblade in her hoof. He could only sit there, his body couldn't move from sight. Twilight just stood there before resting the keyblade on her shoulder.

"Okay Heartless, let's fight!"

The Darkness Within, Chapter 4: Help

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Memories. It seems they are one of the many things that can affect 'The Key'. I'm honestly not sure why the affect it, but they do. In my research I am starting to see that 'The Key' can affect almost anything. The mind and the body are not safe from this amazing object. This...this weapon can change and alter anything. I wonder if there is a limit to it's power?

-Starswirl, Report 18

"So...how does Trixie activate this thing?" Trixie asked as she stared deeply into the card. Radiant Hope had made her go to the dinner room where the small fill just sat there, staring at the object. She looked at Hope with an expression on confusion with curiosity. Radiant on the other hoof, just placed the now-cooked food on the table.

"You're really asking that now? I sure didn't expect you to want to activate it so soon. We haven't even ate dinner yet!"

"Well uh...Trixie just thought..." Trixie muttered as she twiddled her hooves.

"That we would do it all today? You just got here little filly, there's no need to rush."

"Oh...okay." Trixie said as she finally looked up and saw the fresh salad in front of her. Her mouth watered in anticipation as another group of leafy vegetables sat down onto the table. That and some fresh potatoes with a side of pepper. Drool began to appear on Trixie's lips as Radiant giggled at the sight.

"Not yet little filly. We need to wait for Twilight and Flash."

"But Trixie is huuuuuungry." Trixie drooled while smacking her lips. "And the salad looks so goooooood."

"Just wait a few more minutes..." Radiant said as she covered Trixie's salad with a magic aura. Granted, I'm hungry too. What is taking those two so long?

Meanwhile...

"You...you saved me?" Flash gasped as Twilight stood in front of him, her keyblade firmly inside her hoof. The filly interlocked her hooves as she stared the Neoshadow down. The colt could only watch the keybearer stare the Heartless down. His previous statement didn't even enter her ears as she readied herself. As Flash watched the filly glare the monster down, his mind could only race at the sight. Is that...is that the filly I fought earlier?

"KUPO! KUPO!" Spike cheered as he flew behind Twilight. His cheers soon stopped as he saw the Heartless getting up, quickly pointing it at it and yelling, "Kupo!"

"I know Spike. I'll beat him." Twilight said with a gulp. In truth, she wasn't sure she could win. Her whole body shook as the soulless being in front of her just stood there, it's claws slowly extending. She took several deep breaths as she stared the monster down. I can do this, I can do this. Just like my dream. I can't run away....sometimes, you have to fight.

Before another thought could go through her head, the shadow began to attack. It's claw stuck straight like a bullet as it went straight for her eyes. She let out a small scream as her eyes blinked before she swung the blade wildly. The random swing knocked the claw away as the shadow hopped back, it's body slowly shifting into the floor. Twilight watched the monster disappear and began to look around. Where did it go?

As she began to let down her guard, the shadow quickly flew into the ground. It's body turned into a small puddle as it shifted behind Twilight. A second later, it began to ascend once again.

"Watch out! Behind you!" Flash said as he tried to get up, only to fall over from his injuries. "Oof! Blast it..."

"Huh?" Twilight said as she turned around, only to see two soulless eyes staring right in front of her. "Eep!"

Two claws began to strike her head as she gripped her blade. She closed her eyes as she knew the attack was about to hit her. Her mind raced as she concentrated into her keyblade, it's teeth shining. Then, two fireballs appeared and flew around her, instantly blocking the attack. The monster's claws were struck down from the flames as it flinched back. A moment later, it shifted back into the floor as if it was nothing.

"Oh no, I hate it when they do that." Twilight said as she began staring at the floor. Flash starting looking too, only to see the Neoshadow shift behind the filly. As he tried to warn her, it began it's next attack.

"Watch out! It's behind you!" Flash yelled as it's claw struck Twilight's side. She let out a small scream as she fell over from the strike. Then, before either of them could react, the Neoshadow leapt into the air. It let out a small roar as it began to spin it's body, ready to strengthen it's next attack. Seeing this display, Twilight gripped her blade, a chill racing down her spine. She wasn't sure what she was feeling, but she knew what to do. Before the Heartless could even get close, Twilight lifted her keyblade, pointing straight into the sky. Flash could only watch as a blast of ice flew out of the tip of the blade, instantly freezing the spinning monster.

The Neoshadow fell like a rock, it's frozen body filled with ice. It couldn't move and neither could Flash. He could only sit there, amazed at the sight. Twilight, seeing this opportunity as the Heartless effortlessly struggled to get out of the block of ice, raised her keyblade again. Reeling back, she struck the Heartless down with one blow.

"Got it...I got it..." Twilight gasped, her hooves letting go of the sword. "Holy magic. That scared the snot out of me."

Flash looked at the filly as she fell over, her flank sitting down the ground as air blasted out of her lungs. As he watched the filly just sit there, obviously shaking from fear. How...how did she save me like that? She beat it so easily and it was about to skewer me to pieces. Not only that, she's so scared right now...but she saved me. How? He kept looking at her as she dismissed the keyblade and went back to Spike, the little moogle embracing her with a hug. The smile that shined on her face from the moogle's gesture made Flash's eyes widen even more. This...this was the pony I fought earlier? She seems like a completely different pony than before. No way...

After hugging Spike back, Twilight turned to Flash as she walked over to him and presented her hoof. "You okay?"

"Uh...yeah. Sure..." he said with a gulp as he grabbed her hoof. She pulled him up as a shiver went down his spine. He still couldn't believe what just happened. "Um...can I ask you something?"

"Hmm?"

"Why?"

"Why? Why what Flash?" Twilight asked, her head tilting as she found herself confused by the question.

"Why...why did you save me?"

"What do you mean?"

"You...you saved me. After what I did to you earlier, you still saved me. Why?"

"Do you really need a reason to help somepony?"

The statement struck Flash's heart like a mountain of bricks. His ears shook as those words went through his mind. Memories flowed through his head as he tried to comprehend what the kind hearted filly in front of him had just said.

The Past...

"Flash."

"Yes?" a small colt replied as he sat down in a large decorated room. His body was covered in scrapes and bruises, more than usual for a colt his age. He looked up to the towering unicorn before him with a look of skepticism and slight confusion.

Before him was Radiant Hope, his new mother who had just adopted him. She had just taken him from a Canterlot orphanage by the suggestion of Princess Celestia. She had been told that the colt was somepony that no one liked. Everypony beat on him everyday and hated him for no reason. Due to this, the colt had become dangerous and violent, his very nature was to lash out at everything around him. Even his cutie mark didn't help what he was, it was the picture of a shield with a lightning bolt in it. The very symbol showed he was born to fight.

Radiant closed her eyes for a brief moment before replying, "Do you know why you are here?"

"I'm here because you adopted me?" Flash said as he raised his eyebrow at the simple question. "Though to be honest, you were really weird about it since I had to come here instead of you picking me up from the orphanage."

"True, I'll agree with you there. Celestia probably didn't tell you, but I can't leave this castle."

"Why not?"

"I'll explain that later. Now, I'll ask again. Do you know why you are here?"

Flash's eyes narrowed as he said a different answer. "Is it some punishment for beating up those bullies again?"

Radiant shook her head. "No. You are here because you need somepony to guide you. To make you realize who you really are." Radiant cricked her neck as she stood before the colt, her presence growing. She bent down and placed her hoof under his chin. "Celestia has made me train hundreds of colts and mares over the years. I help her train certain soldiers that have...bad attitudes for basic pony military yet thanks to their cutie mark, it's obvious they have a talent for being a solider."

"You're going to train me to be a soldier?" Flash asked, not sure how to respond. The colt had never really thought about his future. His entire life was nothing but fighting after all. He always fought, that's all he knew how to do.

"I have been told that you are a pony who only fights because he can. A pony who does nothing but lash out and hurt others because you don't know what else to do. That's why I'm going to help you realize who you really are."

"....." Flash just stared at here before finally responding. "I don't get it."

"It's simple my little colt. You are here to learn how to control yourself."

"Control myself? How do we do that?"

"We do it by showing you how to control your fighting ways. That and your cutie mark shows you would perfect for this path."

"My mark?" Flash asked as he looked back at his flank. "I just got that one day after defending myself from the bullies at the orphanage."

"Exactly. Because of your cutie mark, I will teach you the ways of the blade." Radiant said as she levitated a small wooden sword in front of her. "With this path, I will help you learn self control and...you will learn this in order to help others."

"Help others? Why would I do that?" Flash asked, the colt have never helped anypony before in his life.

"Because, that is the duty of a true pony. A solider. And as a solider, you will help other ponies, even if you don't have a reason to. After all, soldiers do not need any reason to help somepony."

The Present...

But I never did, did I Mother? I trained with you for over a year and...I still couldn't respect you or control myself. Flash thought as he stared at the filly, his heart sinking at the sight of her. But she did it without any training at all. She beat something I couldn't even touch, and she did it effortlessly. This pony in front of him who had shown tens times the bravery he had ever shown. She had shown true courage and kindness while he still lashed out violently like always.

But this was different. Somepony had came to help him. Nopony had ever done that before. Sure Radiant had adopted and helped him, but not like this. All the ponies around him had always bullied and beat him, hated him for what he was. They tried everything to make him miserable. So in turn, he tried to make them miserable.

And yet, the pony he had treated so cruelly earlier had saved him without a second thought.

I beat her up so badly earlier and yet...she saved me. She saved me like it was nothing. I really am horrible. he thought as he kept staring at the filly, a worried expression appearing on her face.

"Um...is something wrong?" she asked as Flash stood there like a statue.

"I'm sorry!" he screamed suddenly as he bowed down before her, his face touching the dirt. "I'm so so sorry!"

"Whoa!" Twilight yelped as she jumped back from the sudden yell. "Uh..."

"Please forgive me! I hurt you and I'm so sorry I did! I said all those mean things and-*sniff*" Flash said as tears began to go down his eyes. "I'm so so sorry..."

Twilight blinked at the sight for a second, unsure what to do. She glanced at Spike, who only floated there, his head turned slightly. She looked back at Flash as he continued to bow, tears flowing down his cheeks. She went up and patted his back with a smile. "It's fine. I forgive you."

His eyes widened as those words entered his ears. He slowly looked up as his lips trembled from the statement. "You...you do? After all I did to you?"

"Uh-huh." Twilight nodded.

"I see..." Flash said as he saw her kind innocent smile. He could tell how naïve yet pure-hearted she was. His heart broke down again as he bowed once more. "Very well...from this moment on Twilight Sparkle, I owe you my life."

"Huh?"

"From this day forward, I will do everything I can to teach you the ways of swordponyship. I shall forever be in your debt."

"Huh?" Twilight repeated, his statement going over her head. "I don't get it."

"I think he's saying he'll teach you how to use the blade portion of your keyblade, Twilight." said a certain voice behind the duo. They both turned to see Radiant Hope with a curious look on her face. "Though I have to say, this is quite the turn around son. What exactly happened back here? You two looked like you both had another fight." Her horn began to shine as a green light covered the foals, healing them. "Though I take it that that wasn't what really happened here, was it?"

"Uhhhhh..." both of them said as they remembered what just happened. They looked at each other for a second before Twilight took the initiative. "We um...got attacked by a Heartless. A really scary looking one."

"I see." Radiant said with a now deadpan expression. "And did you make up with Twilight, Flash?"

"I uh...er..." Flash's hooves trembled as he was still bowing slightly over. "I um...well..."

"He did! Everything's fine!" Twilight exclaimed with a big goofy grin, trying to end the awkward situation as soon as possible.

"I see...welp, time for dinner you two!" Radiant said as a smile appeared on her face again. "Come on, I'm starving and I'm betting Trixie is too."

"Okay!" they duo said in unison as they followed her back inside. The two gave each other a glance before finally entering the dinning room. The two then thought in unison, This is going to be awkward, isn't it?

Meanwhile...

"WRO? What's that?" asked Cadance as she looked at the mirror as it began to shine.

"It stands for Worlds Reconnaissance Organization. They are, how you say, an organization that exists to watch over multiple worlds." a voice said that was unfamiliar to the two. She tried to find it's origin, only to see a strange figure inside the shining mirror. She backpedaled at the sight, quickly looking the being over. The figure inside was not a pony, but a bipedal creature with dark black hair and was wearing a well made blue suit. "Are you Princess Celestia's ambassador?"

"No Reeve. She's here to see what other worlders are like first hoof." Celestia replied as she walked in front of the mirror, irritation obvious on her face. "Though there won't be much negotiating going on here, so don't worry about it."

"Um...could I perfectly honestly blunt here auntie?" Cadance said with a raised hoof. Celestia gave her a nod. "What is this and what is that?!"

"That my niece, is what is called a human. It's a creature that happens to be very very annoying."

"Hey!" Reeve yelled, his hands turning into fists.

"You know it's true." Celestia said as she levitated a cup of coffee to her lips. She cocked her eyebrow as she continued her retort. "After all, why else do I look so annoyed when speaking to you?"

"Because uh..." Reeve twiddled his thumbs before turning to the Princess of Love. "Hey you, help me out here, would ya?"

"I'm sorry, but I don't know you." Cadance replied while twiddling her hoover.

"Oh yeah...right." Reeve replied with scratching the back of his head. "Anyways, does she know why we're talking to each other right now Princess Celestia?"

"No." Celestia took another sip. " Though I'm about to tell her why I don't like you and why you should keep your grubby hands off of Equestria."

"Hands? What are those?"

"Long story. Let's get back to the main topic." Celestia grunted as she swigged down another cup. Cadance could only gulp at the anger on her face. Reeve thought the same thing at the same time as he watched Celestia get her cup refilled. Cadance then looked at Reeve, blinking at the sight. She must really not like this guy.

"Now now Celestia, let's not-"

"That's Princess Celestia." Celestia hissed as she tapped the mirror. "Remember it."

"Fine. I apologize." Reeve said with a bow. "Now, on to the main topic. I am calling you to offer my organization's help over-"

"Denied." Celestia said as she tapped the screen again. "Last time we talked, you agreed to never step foot or hoof on this world and that is final. That includes any of your subordinates."

"But-"

"Denied. That is all."

Cadance raised his hoof, causing Celestia to give him a nod. "Pardon me auntie but...what is going on here? I don't get any of this. All I'm seeing is you not liking this...creature inside this mirror. How is this about negotiations?"

Celestia let out a small breath of fresh air as she put her cup down. "It's less about negotiations my niece and more about...the future."

"The future?"

"Yes. As you know, the small horde of monsters attacked Canterlot a few days ago and...certain things happened in those events."

"I heard. Apparently they took down a bunch of the royal guard in the attack."

"Exactly. The creatures are called the Heartless and they haven't been seen in Equestria for centuries. They-"

"That's not entirely true Princess Celestia." Reeve interrupted with a snap of his fingers. Several screens appeared behind him, showing multiple readings and pictures of Heartless. "After all, our sensors detected Heartless several months ago over your world. They've been here in Equestria for some time now."

"And I told you that your reading was false!" Celestia barked back, her hoof smacking the mirror. "I told you that this world and the worlds connecting to it are off limits!"

"But Princess, we are responsible for keeping the peace of the worlds." Reeve stated back. "Please realize-"

"I realize nothing." Celestia retorted as Cadance started to backpedal. She still wasn't sure why she was here since Celestia was obviously in full control or why Celestia was so angry at this creature. She wanted to speak up but Celestia kept talking, "Worlds are not meant to be meddled with Reeve. You should obey that rule. After all, I'm guessing you have some agents in Equestria, don't you?"

"Well..."

"You do, don't you?"

"Um...maybe?" Reeve tried to look away, only for Celestia to glare at him more.

"And why are they here? It is because of the Heartless?"

Reeve made a slight gulp. "It's because we believe a keybearer is here. That is all Celestia."

"Keybearer?" Cadance said, her expression showing pure confusion. "What's that?"

"Something of great value Princess. A keybearer is a someone that can change the very fate of multiple worlds. It is a being that can venture to other worlds and help them without the problem of meddling." He then turned to Celestia and gave her a glare. "And you can't keep that from us Celestia."

"We'll see about that you-" Celestia replied as her horn began to glow. That is, till another alicorn began to raise her voice.

"AUNTIE!" Cadance yelled, quickly making the alicorn of the sun's horn sputter out. She turned to her niece with a slightly shocked look. There, Cadance stood with puffed up cheeks as she said, "Stop arguing with this-this...human thing and tell me what's going on!"

"Well-"

"NOW! I'm tired of hearing you two bicker! I have no idea what is going on since I entered this room and I demand that you stop arguing and start explaining this instant!"

"Alright, alright...calm down my niece." Celestia replied as her anger vanished from her face before turning into a calm, kind expression. "I apologize. I don't mean to keep you in the dark here Cadance."

"Good." Cadance said as she glared at Reeve, causing him to wince and bow in apology. A few seconds later, Cadance crossed her hooves and stared at the duo. "Now, tell me what this is really about. And I mean all of it."

"Alright..." Celestia repeated as she scratched the back of her head. "Let's start at the beginning then."

"Sounds good to me."

"Well, as I said before, this is about the future of Equestria." Cadance didn't change her expression as Celestia continued her explanation. "A few days ago, the Heartless appeared in Equestria. These creatures haven't appeared for centuries and...they attacked us. That is something that has to be forced with creatures like the Heartless. They are beings of darkness and they can't live in the light as they would be severly weakened if they came into my kingdom. After all, I control a great amount of Light."

Reeve shook his head. "The Heartless can't think Celestia. They're creatures of instinct."

"That doesn't matter Reeve. What matters is that they did attack. That could only mean one thing..."

"Someone is controlling them, correct?" Reeve continued.

"Controlling them?!" Cadance gasped, covering her mouth with her hooves. "Are you saying somepony did this?! They attacked all those innocent ponies and guards?!" Celestia nodded. "That's just...wrong!"

"But it did happen." Reeve replied in a grim tone. "They attacked with ill intent and that's why the WRO is here. We exist to hunt down creatures that threaten worlds. We-"

"But you're not doing that here." Celestia interrupted, a hiss slipping out of her mouth. "This world along with the worlds connected to Equestria are off limits Reeve. They are under my protection after all."

"But Celestia-"

"No buts Reeve! I know your forces go out to destroy the Heartless, but you will not involve your little war against those creatures here." Celestia said as she began glaring at Reeve again. Cadance watched as Celestia's face almost touched the glass of the mirror with an icy glare. "Same as the fact that you will call your agents and tell them to leave my world this instant!"

Cadance wanted to intervene, but she knew better. Her aunt was obviously angry and she knew that she couldn't control her. Instead, she just sat there, thinking, Hmm...I think I get it now. We're being invaded by those monsters that somepony is controlling and auntie doesn't want this weird outside 'human' help. Okay...guess that solves one thing. After all, I have no reason to trust this 'human' thing...though auntie is being really mean right now. Did this 'human' do something to make her hate him?

However, before Cadance could speak up to ask, Reeve let out a long winded sigh. He then snapped his fingers as another human appeared behind him. "Shelke." Cadance could only blink as a small girl with orange hair appeared behind the man.

"Yes sir?" the girl asked in a deadpan tone.

"We're done here. Celestia, we'll keep in touch. After all...you'll realize one day that you need my organization."

"I don't believe I will." Celestia hissed as the conversation finally finished. A second later, the image of Reeve disappeared, leaving nothing but a reflection of the two alicorns.

"Uh...auntie? What was that?!" Cadance asked as she twiddled her hooves. "I have never seen you this angry before."

"That was negotiations Cadance. I'm sorry you had to see that, but I had to show you that because there's a good chance we'll be talking to him and his kind real soon."

"Let me guess...is Equestria gonna keep getting attacked by those monsters again?!" Cadance said, trying to hide her fear.

"Yes. And it is the duties of alicorns to protect the ponies from those monsters. That's why I had you come back, to help prepare you for what is to come." Celestia replied as she turned to her niece. Her expression was one of worry crossed with determination. "Now...I need to tell you something."

"What?"

"Do you remember when he mentioned a keybearer?"

"Yeah, what is that?"

"A keybearer is somepony who wields a weapon that can destroy the Heartless permanently. It is a weapon they fear more than anything. You can imagine why Reeve wants to get his hands on one." Celestia bent down and placed her hooves over Cadance's shoulders. "Reeve was right though, the keybearer is here in Equestria. The keybearer is Twilight Sparkle, my new protégé."

"Twilight?!" Cadance gasped, the name instantly ringing bells in her head.

"You know her?"

"I used to foalsit her!" Cadance said before the truth fully racked itself into her brain. "She's the keybearer?! Does that mean those monsters and those human things will come after her?!"

"Yes." Celestia said with a nod. "And I need your help protecting her."

Meanwhile...

"So...that went exactly as I thought it would." Reeve said as he adjusted his shirt. "What do you think Shelke?"

"I have no opinion on what just happened." she said as she typed furiously into a computer. "After all, it went exactly as you predicted Mr. Reeve."

"I know." Reeve said as he pinched his eyes in frustration. "At least our agents are still on that world. Connect a line to Hope, would you?"

"Understood." Shelke then pressed several buttons, only to reveal holographic screen in front of them. On the screen was a symbol of a phone, vibrating to show that it was contacting the agent."

A few seconds later, a certain voice could be heard. "This is Cait Sith, good ahead."

"Greetings old friend, how goes your mission?" Reeve instantly replied, ready to hear good news.

"Yeah, about that..." Cait said with hesitation in his voice. "I'm going to have to call you back."

"Why?"

"Let's just say we're surrounded by Heartless and a crazy evil pony. Call back in a few." A click followed as Reeve and Shelke saw the phone disappear from the screen.

Reeve could only let out a sigh. "That's not good, is it?"

"No. It is not." Shelke said in her usual deadpan voice. "I predict that that may be the last we ever hear of them. After all, when a call ends like that, there is a seventy-four percent chance of never responding to that individual ever again."

"You know, you could be less morbid my dear." Reeve groaned as he pinched his nose. He then tapped a few screens as several names appeared on them. "Get a recon unit out there now and get those two out of there now."

"Yes sir."

"I just hope we can get to them in time. Who knows what they're up against."

A few moments ago...

"So...who are you?" Hope said as he slowly pulled out his boomerang. Cait Sith hid behind him, his legs shaking in fear. Before them was a cloaked filly surrounded by shadow Heartless. A large grin shined under the hood as the pony patted a shadow's head.

"Oh...just a pony that doesn't want you to be here outsider." the cloaked filly said as she began to pat another Heartless. "I believe my friends here agree with me."

Hope gave Cait Sith a quick glare before his horn started to shine. His body crouched into a fighting position as more Heartless began to appear behind the filly. Cait started to backpedal away, only to realize they were already surrounded.

"Uh Hope...this isn't good, is it?"

"Be quiet cat." Hope hissed as he stared directly at the filly, ready to initiate the first strike. "You, what do you want?"

"Didn't I already tell you? I don't want you to be here. Here in Equestria. This world isn't made for disgusting outsiders like you." A distinct red mist began to filter over her eyes as a Large Body Heartless appeared behind her. It beat it's chest as she slowly lifted her hoof. "I'll give you one chance, leave Equestria now or the Heartless will be adding two more hearts to their collection."

Hope grit his teeth as the filly began to summon a black flame in her hoof. She knows advanced combat magic. That flame...I'm betting it's a Fira spell. Seeing this, Hope closed his boomerang and put it back into his pouch. He quickly grabbed Cait Sith and said, "We're leaving. Now."

"We are?! But what about-"

"I'll tell the boss we couldn't do it, okay?"

"Um...okay." Cait Sith replied with a gulp. "Though I kinda just talked to him and he probably thinks we're doomed anyways."

"Doesn't matter, we're leaving."

Starlight chuckled at the duo as she remarked, "Oh? And here I thought I would get a good fight out of you when you pulled out that boomerang. Then again, at least you're smart." She put her hoof under the chin of a shadow Heartless as she showed it a calm, loving smile. "Your hearts would be Heartless chow in no time after all."

"No such luck I'm afraid." Hope replied as he pulled out a small device. "Besides, I got all the info I need. For now at least."

With a tap of button on the device, a bright light shined over the duo. Starlight covered her eyes from the sight with her hoof as the light shined into face. In a few seconds, it was over. All that was left was Starlight and the Heartless. She rubbed her chin as she looked at the grass that once occupied the alien duo. Huh. Never seen that before...wasn't a teleportation spell or a portal of darkness. Wonder where they went...

A shadow Heartless then nudged her side, causing her to pet it. "Ah, whatever. The Master told me to make them scram and they did." She then yawned before turning around, ready to go home. "Its too bad though. I was ready for a full fight and everything."

The Darkness Within, Chapter 5: The Card of Fate

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Darkness. It is said that the beginning of all things began in Darkness. Though even if I believe that, the very nature of the Darkness is...unnatural. It is a force of nature that tries everyway to make itself...not be a force of nature. The very idea of such a thing is...wrong. Almost too wrong. This requires further studies.

-Starswirl, Report 33

"So...Trixie is gonna ask again. How does Trixie activate this card?" she said as she tapped Radiant's side. The unicorn was putting the last of the dishes away with her magic.

"Seriously?" Radiant replied with a cocked eyebrow. She then bent down to Trixie's level and hugged her shoulder. "Why don't we do that tomorrow dear?"

"But Trixie is ready! Trixie wants to do it now!"

"No." Radiant patted the filly's head as she took the card away. "You have plenty of time little one. We'll start your training tomorrow just like Twilight was supposed to start hers tomorrow."

"Grrr..." Trixie growled as she turned away and pouted. "Trixie is already ready."

"I know you are. But now is not the time." Radiant said as the card levitated through the air. It soon rested on a nearby shelf as Radiant let out a yawn. "Besides, you spent most of the day climbing a freezing mountain and just got finished with a feast of a meal. You need some rest dear. We have plenty of time to train tomorrow, alright?"

"Fine." Trixie grumbled as she started to leave the room. "But Trixie wants to start as soon as Trixie gets up."

"That's fine...unless you get up at like three in the morning. Then it's not fine. I need my beauty sleep."

A few minutes later, the blue filly found herself in the room she had been given. Turns out, over half of the rooms in Radiant Hope's castle were empty, mainly due to her having no guests. She explained it as: "Ponies tend to stick to grasslands. The cold is something they love to ignore after all."

As the filly grumbled her way into her new resting place, an aura covered her bed covers as she plopped down onto the bed. "Trixie can't believe Trixie has to sleep here and not get rid of Trixie's darkness already. Stupid Radiant Hope. Trixie wants to do it now." she pouted as she stuffed her face into the pillow. "All Trixie wanted to do is activate that card..."

Despite this thought, Trixie just laid, staring at the ceiling. She didn't want to close her eyes, she didn't want to go to sleep. All she could think of was that card. That card that Radiant said would help her with the darkness. That was why she was here, wasn't it? That's why she did that crazy hike with Twilight. It was the very reason that she even agreed to help Princess Celestia instead of attacking her again.

All to get rid of that blasted darkness.

"Trixie should just go and use that card right now." she said to herself. Despite saying this, her mind took a while to catch up. Five minutes and thirty-two seconds to be exact. "Wait a minute...that's it!"

The idea finally cemented into her filly brain, she quickly hopped off the bed and rushed to the door. It was here that realized she was going to have to sneak around a castle she didn't know in order to get what she wanted. This could be tough. she thought as she creaked open the door, staring at the hallway outside of her room. Oh yeah...I don't know where Radiant's room is. In fact, I have no idea where anything is in this castle.

Some time later...

After what seemed like hours for Trixie, she found what she believed to be Radiant's room. She slowly peeked inside, barely turning the door as it let out a small creaking noise. There, she saw Radiant Hope, fully sprawled out on her bed, complete with snores that could wake the dead. The filly's eyes scanned the room, trying to find the card. Her pupils soon saw the prize as her horn continued her's eyes work. A small shine glimmered from her horn as the card slowly levitated outside of the room. Placing it in her mane, the filly tiphoofed down the hallway, trying to not make a single sound.

Soon, after the small ordeal, Trixie found herself in the main room where they had had their first meeting with Radiant Hope. This room will do. she thought to herself as she stared deeply into the card. Her horn began to alight again as the card started to float in front of her. Alright...now, how do I activate this?

Meanwhile...

Twilight let out a small yawn as she entered her new room in Radiant Hope's castle. She had just returned from the bathroom and fully ready to go to bed. It had been a long day after all, hiking up the mountain, getting beat up by Flash, and fighting the Neoshadow Heartless. She had definitely earned her rest, just like Spike did as he laid down on a small cushion across from her new bed. Smiling at the already snoozing moogle, Twilight decided to do the same and plopped down onto her comfortable mattress.

"Ahhh..." she moaned as her head laid down on that pillow. "So tired...too long of a day..."

The filly blinked several times as she laid there, trying to close her eyes. But she couldn't. She didn't know why. Part of her was thinking that she was so tired that she couldn't fall asleep. Which didn't really make sense in her mind. The other part was pretty sure it was the fact that she had gone through this entire day without reading a single thing. Okay, that wasn't true. She did read some on the train ride over to the bottom of the mountain. However, she never got to what she really wanted to start reading.

The Starswirl Reports.

Celestia had given her reports one through forty and Twilight couldn't wait to study them. That and several advanced magic tomes that Starswirl and Clover had made. Celestia had revealed to Twilight that even though she never published the Starswirl Reports, several of his works were also not allowed to be read by the public eye. The knowledge and magic of these tomes were considered to be...too advanced for normal unicorns. Therefore, they were published in limited quantity and Celestia had deemed Twilight worthy of such readings. As such, one of the tomes was covered in a magical aura as it floated up to Twilight.

Maybe I'll just read one chapter before bed. she thought to herself as her horn shined a tiny light, just enough to read the letters. And then I'll-

"AAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!" screamed a voice, causing Twilight to let out a yelp as the tome went flying off the bed.

"What was that?!" Twilight yelled as she scrambled to get her bearings. "It sounded like...Trixie!"

Sensing danger, Twilight quickly summoned her keyblade, the sword firmly grit between her teeth. She turned to Spike, who was still sleeping on his pillow. Thank goodness the little guy is such a heavy sleeper. she thought to herself as she quickly paced out of the room, slowly closing the door to not disturb the slumbering moogle. After confirming the door to be firmly shut, she rushed down the hallway. A few seconds later, she arrived at Trixie's room.

"Trixie? Are you alright?" she said as she opened the door, her keyblade in her hoof now.

No response.

"That's not good." the filly said to herself as she closed the door. "Where could she have-"

"Why? WHY?!" said the same screaming voice. Twilight's ears twitched as she heard the sound come from across the hall. She soon turned and followed the noise, trying to get to it as soon as possible.

"Trixie?! Are you okay?!" Twilight exclaimed as she entered the main room, only to come to a screeching halt. "What in the-"

Twilight couldn't utter another word. Instead, she just sat there as watched Trixie shivered in fear at the sight before her. What was in front of Trixie was no Heartless, but a pony with a long black cloak on. Twilight let out a small gasp as she glanced between the cloaked individual and Trixie. What is going on? Who is that?!

"Why...why are you here?!" Trixie yelled, sweat pouring down her face. "This...why is this happening to Trixie?!"

"Isn't it obvious?" the cloaked pony replied as it presented it's hoof with a chuckle.

It was then that Twilight noticed something. Twilight couldn't tell if the pony was a mare or a stallion. Her brain instantly clicked at the sight. Voice magic. This pony is using magic to mask it's voice! she thought as she slowly approached Trixie, her hoof gripping her blade. Whoever this pony is, it sure isn't friendly. Trixie wouldn't look so scared if it wasn't!

The cloaked pony then let out a hollow bellowing laugh that made shivers go down both fillies spines. The pony then pointed it's hoof at Trixie, a cheshire grin gradually appearing under the hood. "Well Trixie?"

"Trixie doesn't...Trixie doesn't know."

"But you do. After all, what did Radiant Hope tell you about the card?"

"It'll bring out what your heart fears most." said another voice. Twilight and Trixie turned their heads to see both Radiant and Flash. Radiant hooves were crossed with a disapproving look. "Couldn't wait, could you Trixie?"

"Uh...er...." Trixie stuttered, only for another laugh to come out of the cloaked pony.

"That's right! She couldn't wait to bring me out!" the pony said as it continued to laugh. "After all, I'm the one who ruined her life! I'm the one that she fears day and night, both here and in her nightmares! I am The Servant!"

"Th-that can't-urk!" Trixie muttered before a hoof grabbed her neck, choking her.

"Be quiet you piece of filth! Did you forget what I did to you?! Did you forget that I destroyed everything you love and care about?! Did you forget that I am the one that you fear the most?!" The Servant yelled as it then slammed Trixie's body in the floor, a yell of pain echoing from her lips. "I am the one that taught you everything you worthless bug! I am The Servant!"

"Trixie!" Twilight screamed as she quickly pointed her keyblade directly at The Servant. As she was about to release a blizzard spell, Flash quickly rushed in and stood in front of her. "Get out of the way Flash, I have to help her!"

"You will do no such thing!" Radiant yelled as she appeared behind Twilight, quickly grabbing her hoof. "She summoned that from her heart and now she must deal with it!"

"But-"

"No buts!" Radiant said as she turned Twilight around, their faces staring each other down. "Do not interfere."

"She's right. Trixie is on her own with this." Flash replied, placing his hoof on Twilight's shoulder. "She has to face her darkness Twilight."

"But-"

"They are right." chuckled the Servant, it's hoof still strangling Trixie's throat. "After all, I am the one who taught her the ways of darkness. It would be fitting that I break her as well."

"Why you-"

"STOP IT TWILIGHT!"

The voice made Twilight stop dead in her tracks. It was Trixie who had said that, causing Twilight's keyblade to dismiss itself. Twilight wanted to respond, only for Trixie to speak up again.

"It's okay Twilight...Trixie can do this." Trixie gasped, trying to talk as both of her hooves struggled against the Servant's. "Trixie...has to beat...this monster. Trixie will..."

"But Trixie-"

"Just...just believe in Trixie. After all...what did Trixie tell you when we first became friends?"

"I..." Twilight's ears folded as she relived the memory. "You have the honor of becoming the Great and Powerful Trixie's first friend. That's what you told me."

"Exactly." Trixie replied as she finally got The Servant's hoof off her neck. "And Trixie's gonna show you why Trixie is the Great and Powerful Trixie!"

"Trixie..." Twilight gasped, her hoof over her mouth. However, their moment was quickly and rudely interrupted.

"AHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!" laughed The Servant, it's mouth spewing out spit as it glared at the ceiling in delight. "That's right! You think you're special, don't you?! A little insignificant piece of bug ridden garbage like you thinks they're special!" The Servant then cocked it's head back down with a malicious grin. "Let's see if your pride and arrogance can deal with my power!"

Before anypony could do anything else, The Servant clapped it's hooves. A split second later, darkness covered both the filly and the cloaked pony, causing the others to quickly backpedal. The darkness spread like a thick fog around them until it formed into what looked like a giant dark jet-black orb, imprisoning them both.

"Trixie!" Twilight yelled, quickly charging the orb and striking it with her keyblade. A loud CLONK! could be heard as the keyblade did no damage to the orb. "Trixie! Trixie!"

"Stop it Twilight! It's over!" Flash said as he grabbed the filly as she continued to hit the orb. "That's not helping!"

"Lemme go! I have to help her!"

"It's too late Twilight." Radiant said as her magic covered Twilight, quickly suspending her in the air. "All we can do now...is sit here and wait." Radiant let out a small sigh as she stared at the orb, air expelling out of her nostrils. That cloaked pony...it wasn't The Master. That pony's body was a bit different from The Master and the masked voice was different as well.

Radiant stomped one of her hooves in frustration as she stared at the dark orb, her teeth gritting. So...that was The Servant, loyal minion of The Master. Guess that monster is still around, huh? Flash turned and saw the anger in Radiant's eyes. He had never seen anything like it from his adoptive mother. He'd seen disappointment or frustration from her, but not this. This was hatred.

Radiant let out another sigh as she tried to calm herself. Her expression changed to a compassionate one as she began to imagine what was going on inside the dark orb. Oh Trixie, please don't be like him. Please...you have to do it. You can conquer your inner darkness.

Meanwhile...

Hmm? What's this? thought The Master as it's eyes suddenly opened, the pony's slumber interrupted by a sudden surge down the pony's spine. This is...darkness? No...not quite. Though it feels like The Servant. That's strange...

Quickly clapping it's hooves, a small orb appeared in The Master's room. "Show me where this darkness is." the pony said as the orb began to show several images. It soon showed Radiant's castle, causing The Master to rub it's chin. Ah, so that's it. It was Trixie. I'm guessing Radiant Hope must be behind this. Guess she's trying to help her dispel the darkness. How foolish...but interesting nonetheless.

The Master ascended from the bed and slowly entered another room. There, The Servant was instructing four ponies, all of them with blank expressions on their faces. The Master smiled at the sight, the pony loved seeing the strained looks on the four's faces. The cloaked pony could only chuckle at the fear that the dark pony could sense under those blank expressions. Ah, nothing better than seeing ponies become pawns of darkness.

The Servant then turned and quickly bowed. "Master, did you need something?"

The Master shook it's head. "No no, I'm fine. I was just wondering...did you feel that sudden dark presence a few moments ago?"

"Dark presence? Hold on..." The Servant closed it's eyes as it started to concentrate. A second later, the pony shook in slight shock. "What the-it feels like there's another me somewhere else!"

"I thought so." The Master then patted The Servant's shoulder with a chuckle. "Eh, don't worry about it. After all..." The Master then shined a huge malicious smile, one that made the Servant shine a similar grin. "I have an idea about what we should do with that dark presence."

"Is that so? May I ask what?"

"Well...we'll see once my apprentice returns. She should be back shortly after dealing with the offworlders." The Master then rubbed it's chin as it looked at the four other ponies, their faces showing nothing but fear now. The presence of The Master was overwhelming for the four as the dark pony merely shook it's head again. "Let's just hope she showed those outsiders their place."

Meanwhile, in another part of Equestria...

"What the-what is this?!" yelled Cait Sith as he bonked Hope on the head. "Why are we still on this world?! Why didn't you teleport us directly to the ship?!"

Hope swatted the cat's fist away as he replied. "The ship is too far away so I had the transporter send us somewhere else on this rock, okay?"

"But the transporter might not have enough energy to get us back to the ship now!"

Hope could only sigh at the cat's panic before shoving his hoof in the feline's mouth. "It'll be fine. Come on, let's back to the ship and get going."

"Alright...Reeve isn't going to like this." Cait said as they began to walk.

Hope patted him on the back as he replied. "Just call him back, everything will be fine."

Some time later, the duo finally arrived at their ship. They both let out a sigh of relief as no one had found their optically cloaked ship, completely invisible to the naked eye. After finding the hidden entrance, the two entered inside, quickly starting up the engines.

"Let's just get this bucket going, okay cat?"

"I know, I know." Cait replied as he began to type in some coordinates. "Just be glad the boss already has two other agents on this planet. Otherwise, he would be really cross with you!"

"I know. That's why I had you call him, remember?" Hope snarkly replied as he pulled a lever. "Besides, we got some useful intel anyways, so stop complaining. It's not like we have an intruder on board."

"I know..." Cait said as he pressed the last button. "Let's just go already."

The ship's cloak disappeared as it began to float in the air, it's landing gear disappearing into bottom gear doors. As it's boosters began to activate, Cait equipped a pair of old style pilot goggles. Hope adjusted his neck scarf as he turned the auto-pilot on. The two gave each other a nod before the ship began a full take-off. Moments later, it had left Equestria and began it's venture into the stars.

"See, all wells that ends wells cat." Hope said as he felt his body changing back to it's human form. He felt overjoyed by this fact as his hooves slowly became hands again.

"Yeah, if you call getting attacked by Heartless and some crazed kid pony well, that is. Good thing nothing else went wrong." Cait said with a yawn. "I just hope Reeve won't be too bummed about what happened."

"Where are we going?" said a young voice behind them.

"We're going back to the base Hope, what did you expect?" Cait grunted as he rubbed the side of his face.

"I didn't say anything." Hope replied, causing the duo to look at each other in confusion. A second later, they looked behind themselves, only to see a small gray coated filly with a straight purple mane. She wore a small bland colored blue shirt along with an emotionless expression on her face. Their eyes began to bulge as they saw the filly then begin to change like Hope did, slowly turning into a human form. Mainly, a small girl still wearing the blue shirt and purple hair along with her skin being the same as Hope's skin color. They then looked back at each other as a gulp went down both of their throats. They weren't sure what to say. However, the intruder decided to talk first.

"Have you seen Boulder? I'm looking for him."

The Darkness Within, Chapter 6: Stronger Than You Seem

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The Heart. As I have said before, the heart seems to be the main ingredient to the power of 'The Key'. It's very nature seems to capture just what is so special about 'The Key' and what it can do. Not only that, the heart has a special way of gaining power. It can gain power in anyway possible. Love, life, fear, bravery, courage, wisdom, knowledge, anger, hatred, rage. All these things can power a heart...or hinder it. No matter what I see or research though, one thing always helps the heart. Interaction. Interacting with others gives it more power than anything else.

-Starswirl Report 39

"I uh-er-um..." Hope stuttered as he stared at the little girl, her expression unchanging. He then kept switching his viewpoint between Cait and the girl. "Uh cat, little help here?"

"Um...hey kid." Cait Sith said as he hopped off the chair and stood in front of the girl. "My name's Cait Sith and this is Hope Estheim. Who are you?"

"I'm Maud Pie." the girl said in a deadpan tone.

"Nice to meet you Maud. If you don't mind me asking, how did you get on our ship?"

The girl just stood there, not showing a single expression. The duo were very surprised in the fact that she didn't seem disturbed by the sudden species change from pony to human. Instead, it seemed like nothing would disturb her. She had even switched into being a bipedal in an instant. After a few seconds, she spoke up in the most monotone voice possible. "I was playing camouflage with my pet, Boulder. He was hiding while I was seeking and I couldn't find him."

"And how did that cause you to end up in our ship?" Cait asked as he looked at Hope with a confused face. Hope gave him a worried look back, disturbed by the fact that the girl did not emote whatsoever.

"I was searching and found a weird invisible wall a little outside of our rock farm. I then thought that Boulder was playing a trick on me, so I kept touching the invisible wall until it opened up a weird visible door. I opened the door and then I kept looking for him in here until you all showed up."

Hope and Cait looked at each other in disbelief. They knew their ship had advanced cloaking and mechanical electronic locks. It was designed to make sure no one in multiple star systems could detect their ship. It's design alone was technology far beyond most civilizations.

And yet, this little girl had basically waltzed right in here without a care in the world. The duo looked at each other with the same thought. Reeve is gonna kill us. They then turned around and saw that their ship was about to reach their base. We are so dead. How do we explain this one?!

As the ship was picked up by the base's sensors, the duo let out a huge gulp down their throats. Maud on the other hand, just stood there, emotionless. That is, till she tugged her clothes. "Oh, there you are Boulder. Why were you hiding in my pocket?"

Hope and Cait looked at each other one more time as Hope whispered. "This isn't gonna end well, is it?"

"Nope." the cat whispered back. "Makes you wonder if someone has it worse than us right now."

Meanwhile, in the dark orb inside Radiant's castle...

"AHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!" The Servant laughed as the pony threw Trixie into the wall. The filly let out a scream of pain as her back slammed into the hard rough concrete. Her body made a resounding thud as it hit the floor, her whole body shivering in agony. "Do you feel that you disgusting little worm?! Do you feel the pain you must endure?!"

"Trixie doesn't-urk!" the filly tried to say as the Servant's hoof grabbed her neck again. The Servant then spun around like a top, the filly's limp body flailing as the pony suddenly stopped and threw her at top speed. The filly's body quickly flew across the room. "AAAAAaaahhhhh!!!"

BAM! THUD!

"Oooohhhh..." Trixie moaned as she fell to the floor again, her whole body in searing pain. Her eyes twitched as she watched the cloaked pony slowly approach her. She tried to get up, only for the Servant's hoof to grab her again.

"Do you see how pointless it is now?" the Servant asked as the pony waved it's hoof, pointing at the entire room around them. Trixie's pupils could barely see what was around them. A few moments ago, Trixie was in Radiant's Castle where she had first used the card. Now, she was in a dark room with little light. However, the room was very familiar to her. It was her training room when she was The Servant's apprentice. The Servant laughed again as the pony saw Trixie's wandering eyes. "It's familiar, isn't it? This room, that is."

"Trixie...remembers...this room." she muttered, her throat struggling to say something. "Why is...Trixie here?"

"Simple. This room is your world after all."

"Trixie's...world?"

"Yes." The Servant hissed as the pony leaned up to Trixie, whispering into the filly's ear. "This place is the only thing that matters to your heart. It's where everything you know and hate lives."

"Wha...what are you talking about?!"

"Oh come on! Isn't it obvious you piece of filth?!" The Servant yelled as it threw Trixie across the room again, the filly's body skidding down the floor. "This is only place you're allowed to exist Trixie! This is all that's left of your world!" The Servant vanished, only to reappear directly over Trixie as the cloaked pony slammed it's hoof on top of Trixie's head, pinning her head into the floor. "This is all that matters! Your parents, your so-called new friend, even your magic means absolutely nothing Trixie!" The Servant waved it's hoof once more. "This is all that's left in your heart! Nothing but an empty space filled with memories of pain and despair!"

"That's-urk!"

"Don't you see?!" The Servant yelled as it grabbed Trixie again. The filly was then thrown across the room once more as laughter filled her surroundings. The Servant kept bellowing laugh after laugh, "AHAHAHA!!! After all, this is your darkness Trixie!"

"Dark...ness...?" Trixie gasped, trying to speak.

"That's right. Your darkness Trixie. That is what this room is and..." The Servant shined a massive grin as it put it's hoof on it's chest. "I am your darkness Trixie. I am all that matters in your heart."

"But-"

"And now, it is time." The Servant interrupted. The cloaked pony then stood upright, as if it was now a statue.

"Time?"

"For you to drown in darkness...just like you used to when I trained you."

"Wha....no! Trixie won't-"

"Too late." The Servant clapped it's hooves. As the clap's sound rung out throughout the room, Trixie felt a shiver down her spine. Her eyes widened as she saw a wave of dark, thick misty fog surround her. The fog began to show several glowing red eyes, their gaze piercing right through the filly. Trixie could only sit there, trembling in fear.

"Goodbye Trixie." and with that, another clap followed.

The dark fog devoured the filly. A small cry for help could be heard for only a second, only for it to be drowned out by the unending darkness that now covered the pony. As she tried to cry out again and again, nothing happened. Except one thing, and that was making The Servant laugh more and more. The Servant continued to laugh as the darkness continued to fill the room, even devouring the cloaked pony.

Soon, there was nothing left. Just a black empty space.

All that was left was a blank, empty, meaningless void.

Meanwhile, in another part of Equestria...

Several ponies stood in a dark, almost lightless room. The ponies within were The Master, The Servant and four other young foals. The foals were all standing like statues, a dark fog covering their heads. It was then that the other two felt something. The Servant stopped then turned to The Master, ready to speak up.

Hmm.... The Master thought as the pony rubbed it's chin. Seems I was right. Looks like Trixie didn't have what it takes.

"Master, this feeling..." The Servant began, only to see The Master's raised hoof.

"Yes. Trixie is gone. The darkness devoured her. Heart, soul, and everything." The Master let out a yawn as the pony turned around. "Too bad, I was hoping we could use a bit more out of her. Oh well..."

"Are you retiring for the day Master?"

"I am." The Master waved it's hoof slightly. "Tell my apprentice when she returns that she has the day off. I'm done for the day."

The Servant did a slight bow. "Understood. Have a pleasant sleep Master." The Master gave another wave as The Servant returned to his work on the four. As the pony began to instruct the four again, a small thought ran through the pony's head. I guess The Master was right all along. I guess that training was truly a waste of time. And Trixie held such great promise! But...she could not endure the wondrous gift that is the darkness. Just goes to show you what it means if you are unworthy of such a miraculous power.

The Servant clapped it's hooves as several Heartless appeared in the room. "Let's see...I need you and you to-"

The pony's commands stopped as The Servant felt a small chill. The pony's ears twitched as another chill went down it's spine. What is...why do I still feel like there's still another me somewhere?

Meanwhile...

Trixie

"Wha?" said a certain blue filly's voice.

Trixie. Trixie Lulamoon.

"What is..."

Wake up Trixie. You are not done.

"Wha...who?"

My name is of no importance. I am only here to tell you one thing. Wake up.

"I...Trixie can't. Trixie is...gone."

Are you really done? Is it really over for you?

"Yes...Trixie is...Trixie is..."

If you have to time to talk, then you're obviously not done. Get up. There is work to do.

Trixie didn't respond that time. Instead, she tried to open her eyes. However, when she did, she wasn't sure she had opened them. All she could see was darkness. Pitch black darkness. Nothing was there. Just a dark black inky void. Blinking several times, Trixie began to try and feel her body. However, she couldn't feel a thing. It felt like she was just sitting there, floating in some motionless void.

"What is going on? Just...what is happening to Trixie?"

No response.

"Tri...no, I see. I'm alone. I'm all alone now." she said to herself. "I'm just...alone. I'm...nothing."

And with that, a memory floated into her head.

A few days ago...

Trixie was just sitting there, the small blue filly slouched over on a small wooden log. Her current location was the 100 Acre Wood, a small forest inside a book. At first, Trixie was surprised by the notion of being in the book and meeting other creatures that weren't ponies. But soon, it didn't matter to her. Depression quickly settled in again, just like it had for her entire stay at the castle in Canterlot.

As she sat there, she let out another sigh, trying to find some hope in her mind, only to just think about how The Servant was going to find her and destroy her. She looked up, not able to even laugh at the humorous sight in front of her. Before her eyes was Twilight and Spike along with several other creatures as they tried to pull out a small yellow bear who was stuck in a hole. Despite the humor of the sight, she just sighed again.

What am I doing here? she thought to herself as looked down at the ground, a frown covering her entire face. Her nostrils let out a long release of air. She wanted to think about the past few days, how Celestia had forgiven her due to The Servant's control over her. How Twilight had shown her that magic book and they were now inside it. But instead, Trixie could only sit there, thinking about how her life was going to go now, Just what am I going to do now? I'm all alone, my parents are gone, The Servant will probably sic a ton of Heartless at me to shut me up...my life is over. Just...why am I here? Why-

"Um...are y-y-you o-o-okay?" said a stuttering voice, knocking Trixie out of her trance. She looked around, trying to find the voice's origin, only to see a small pig standing right in front of her. She blinked at the creature, trying to find a response. "Uh...h-h-hello?"

"Oh uh...hi." Trixie said, not sure what to say.

"H-h-hi. I'm Piglet."

"Er...hello Piglet. Trixie is Trixie Lulamoon."

"H-h-hello Trixie. It's n-n-nice to m-m-meet you." Piglet said as he slightly backpedaled, his whole body shivering.

"Um..." Trixie muttered, watching the small pig squirm. Am I that intimidating? The little guy sure seems scared.

"Kupo!" said a certain voice, interrupting the two's staredown. It was Spike as he floated up towards the duo.

"Oh, h-h-hello Spike." Piglet replied with a tiny wave. The moogle replied with a small hug. As the two tiny beings hugged each other, Trixie could only chuckle at the sight. Hearing the chuckle, Piglet turned and said, "Oh, that's g-g-good."

"Hmm?"

"I t-t-thought you were always s-s-sad. Glad you can l-l-laugh Trixie."

"Huh? Oh well uh..." Trixie stuttered as she twiddled her hooves. "Trixie is...Trixie doesn't want to talk about it."

"O-o-okay." Piglet replied, his eyes now staring at the ground. A few seconds later, he looked back up and asked. "C-c-can I sit up there with you?"

"Um...sure." Trixie said as she moved slightly over. The small pig hopped up and sat right by the filly, a tiny smile on his face.

"Are you okay?"

"Hmm? Yeah, Trixie is fine."

"Oh...you don't look okay."

"Well..." Trixie looked back down at the ground, not wanting to respond.

"Why are you sad?"

"Huh?"

"W-w-why are you s-s-sad Trixie?" Piglet asked again, a large frown on his face. "No one wants to be s-s-sad, so why are you?"

"Because..." Trixie didn't want to say it, but she felt the little pig didn't mean any harm. Instead, she looked back up, seeing the sight of Twilight and the others still trying to pull out Winnie the Pooh from the hole behind Rabbit's house.

"Trixie is...sad because Trixie has lost everything...and Trixie can't get it back." Piglet said nothing as tears began to stream down Trixie's cheeks. "Trixie doesn't have the strength...or the courage...or anything. Trixie is...Trixie..." Tears covered her face as she slumped over again, her hooves over her face. "Trixie is nothing now."

Piglet watched the filly as she sat there, tears falling to the ground. The little pig could only sigh, trying to think of what to say. Oh d-d-dear. What do I say to her? She's so sad and...what would Pooh say?

But words wouldn't come to the little pig's mind. Seeing that couldn't solve the problem this way, he tried to only other thing he knew he could do. He got up and hugged her. Granted, he could only hug a tiny bit of her chest, but that didn't matter. The gesture alone made Trixie stop crying.

"Huh? Why are you-"

"It's okay." Piglet interrupted, words suddenly appearing in his head.

"Wha-"

"It'll be okay. You're stronger than you seem."

"Stronger than...what did you say?"

"Stronger than you seem. It's something Christopher Robin would always say to Pooh."

"Christopher Robin?"

"Yeah." Piglet said as he released his hug. "He would say to Pooh, 'You're braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think.'"

"Stronger...than Trixie thinks?"

"Uh-huh." Piglet nodded. "He told us that everyone is like that. Everyone always believes they're only so good when they're actually better."

"Trixie...Trixie sees what you mean." Trixie said in a low, almost whispering tone. She tapped her chest in thought, trying to figure out what the saying truly meant. She got what Piglet was saying, but it felt like there was something more. Something different. As she sat there, she felt a small tap on her shoulder.

"Hey Trixie." said a voice. Trixie looked up, only to see Twilight standing there with a smile. "Are you okay?"

"Trixie...doesn't know."

"That's fine." said another voice. They turned their heads, only to see Pooh with a big smile on his face. "After all, it's okay if you don't think you're okay."

"It is?" Trixie asked, her eyes widening at the statement.

"Sure." Pooh nodded. "After all, as long as you're you, you'll turn out fine."

"I think you said that wrong Pooh." Twilight said with a chuckle. She then turned to Trixie, "I think what Pooh meant is that you don't have to worry so much. Just be yourself Trixie."

"And remember, you're always stronger than you think you are!" Piglet added as he hugged her again.

The Present...

"I...I remember now." Trixie said to herself as she floated there, the darkness still thick around her. "Trixie is...stronger that Trixie seems."

"That's right." said a voice behind the filly. Trixie turned around, only to gasp at a certain sight. It was her mother, Tricky Moon, floating there with her in the void. "You've always been strong."

"M-m-mommy?"

Tricky Moon nodded. "That's right. I'm always here for you Trixie."

"But-"

"But you're not!" yelled a condescending voice behind Trixie. She turned around again, only to feel a hoof grab her neck in a vice-like grip. Her eyes widened at the new sight in front of her. It was The Servant. "You'll never be strong! I made sure of that!"

"Trixie is-"

"BE QUIET!" The Servant yelled as it slapped Trixie in the face, quickly shutting the filly up. "You're nothing! Do you hear me?! You're nothing but an insignificant bug!"

"You're wrong." said another voice as a hoof swatted away The Servant's grip on Trixie. "She will always be something. She will always be something more than even you can control."

The voice belonged to another familiar face. One Comet Hat, Trixie's father. Tears began to stream down the filly's face as she watched her father push The Servant back. "D-d-daddy..."

"I'm here Trixie. I'll always be here."

"Except when you weren't." The Servant barked back. A shining grin pierced the void as the pony pointed to another part of the void. "Look at that you insignificant pests. Look at the memories of your foal that you failed to protect!"

The trio looked to where The Servant was pointing, only to see a blank screen. That is, till a picture began to show on it. There, Trixie began to shiver in fear at the very sight before her. It was the time when she being trained under The Servant.

"Look at what you did!" The Servant yelled as the parents backpedaled. "Look at your failure! Look at you idiotic piece of garbage foal as I tortured her! As I made her submit to my will and to my power!"

The screen showed an even smaller Trixie surrounded by a thick dark aura, her whole body shaking from the aura's power. In her hoof was the weapon, Soul Eater. In front of the filly was The Servant as a dark flame appeared in the pony's hoof. The Servant than reeled back the fireball, ready to fire it as it commanded the filly to take a defensive stance. Then, as it seemed that only one fireball was going to thrown at the filly, the dark flame burst into five fireballs, all blasting into the filly. The filly went flying, her body burning from the dark flames. Screams released themselves as she laid there in pain.

"AHAHAHA!!!" The Servant laughed, watching the screen as it patted Trixie on the back. "Did you see that?! Do you remember the pain I constantly caused to you?!"

"Y-yes...Trixie remembers." Trixie said with a gulp.

"Do you see what I did? I broke you." The Servant bellowed as the pony kept hitting Trixie's back in a fit of laughter. "Do you remember that? How everyday I would have you fight Heartless after Heartless, trying to make you see how only darkness would give you the strength to fight those beasts?! How I reminded you day after day about how I destroyed your parent's hearts?! How I showed you that darkness would give you the strength to defeat me!" The Servant then grabbed Trixie's neck again, her throat letting out a croak. "And yet you always fell flat. You didn't deserve the darkness."

"You're wrong." said another voice. They all turned, only to see not one being, but several. In front of Trixie, Tricky Moon, Comet Hat and The Servant were several new visitors. To be specific, Twilight Sparkle, Spike and Piglet. Behind the three were the rest of the friends of the 100 Acre Wood. "She's stronger than she seems."

"Oh really?"

"Yes. Trixie has both the Light and the Darkness to help her."

"And she's not alone." Tricky Moon added. "She'll always have us in her heart."

"My daughter is ten times the pony you are Servant." Comet Hat continued.

"I don't believe she is. But since our little void here keeps having visitors, I think I'll bring some of my own. Oh Heartless!" The Servant replied as it clapped it's hooves. Trixie and the others braced themselves for company as the cloaked pony floated there, waiting for it's own backup.

But then, nothing happened.

"What the-where are the Heartless?!" The Servant yelled as it clapped it's hooves again. "Come to me!"

Still nothing.

"What is...WHAT?! HOW DARE YOU?!" The Servant clapped again. "COME TO ME HEARTLESS!!!"

"Looks like you're wrong." Trixie said as she crossed her hooves.

"Oh really? Wrong about what you piece of filth?"

"That Trixie is useless. Trixie gets it now." the filly then took a deep breath, her eyes closed. The Servant just floated there, unsure of what Trixie was doing. Then, everypony vanished except her and The Servant.

"What is this? Where did they go?"

"They don't belong here."

"They don't-huh?"

The filly ignored the pony as it continued. "Trixie gets it now. This void is Trixie's Darkness. It's where Trixie gets Trixie's dark powers."

"So...you figured it out." The Servant grumbled, it's head staring down. It clapped it's hooves one more time, only for a legion of Heartless to appear behind it. The Servant lifted it's head as more and more Heartless kept appearing. "So what?! You're still stuck here in your darkness. There is no Light for you to use against my power!"

"You're wrong. Trixie has Light to fight you."

"Oh really? And where is it?"

"Simple. It's right here." Trixie replied, tapping her chest. "It's in Trixie's heart. My family and friends are there and they give me all the Light I need." Trixie then shinnied a smile. But it wasn't a small smile or tiny grin, but a genuine, happy smile. "And just like this void is enough Darkness for Trixie, them being in Trixie's heart is more than enough Light for Trixie."

After that statement, all that was left in that inky black void was a sudden bright light. A shining pillar of light that consumed everything and everypony in it. Then...nothing. Nothing but an empty void.

"AAAAAAAAaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!" Trixie yelled as the dark fog slowly released her, her body flailing around as she reappeared in the room the dark orb had created earlier. The Servant that had been created from the card began to backpedal as Trixie's form shined in the room. As the last bit of light shined from the filly, the dark fog completely dispersed, leaving nothing but the blue-coated pony.

"Well well well...this is unexpected. You actually escaped the darkness." The Servant said with a chuckle as the pony began to clap it's hooves in a mocking tone. "To think the 'Great and Powerful Trixie' could actually escape the void."

"Shut...up..." Trixie replied, her whole body shaking from the experience. Her legs shook as she felt her entire body shiver in response. Her legs were like jello and her eyes were constantly darting back and forth, trying to figure out what had just happened. After a few moments, Trixie stared straight ahead, The Servant standing at the other end with a giant grin. Trixie then pointed her hoof at the cloaked pony, her weapon, the Soul Eater appearing in her hoof.

"Heh heh...looks like the little filly thinks she can take me. You do realize that you are still alone in here with me, right?" The Servant let out another laugh. "And yet you still think you can beat me. Remember, I gave you the power you wield right now. Despite that, you still couldn't get your revenge against me."

"That's fine." Trixie panted as she put herself into a fighting stance.

"Oh? Is that so? And what makes you so confident that you can beat me now?"

"Simple." Trixie shined a cheeky, confident grin. "Trixie is stronger than she seems."

The Servant began laughing again, it's head staring at the ceiling. As the pony continued to laugh, a dark flame appeared in it's hoof. Then, The Servant looked back at Trixie with a giant, malicious grin. "I see. It's just like they always say...that last bit of light is always the toughest bit to snuff out."

The Darkness Within, Chapter 7: The Great and Powerful

View Online

As I continue to study the mechanisms of the organism that is the heart, it seems the Darkness is always there. It's ironic to a fault, the Darkness that is. It's as if it exists only to contradict the many things that make life worth existing. All the Darkness does is kill and destroy. And yet...there is still something more there. That is why it exists, I suppose. Otherwise, I'd probably run out of things to study.

-Starswirl, Report 32

The room was silent. So quiet, you could hear a pin drop. On one side was Trixie Lulamoon, a blue colored filly wielding a blade that looked like a bat-wing. She was pointing her sword, the Soul Eater, at her opponent as her grip tightened. Her face only showed a calm, composed expression, complete with a dead-eyed glare. On the other side was The Servant. Or, at least a version of The Servant, who was standing still with a large dark flame in it's hoof. As always, the face of the pony could not be seen except for a large malicious grin.

Trixie lowered her blade barely, not even a centimeter down. Then, her eyes glowed for just a second before her other hoof began to move. The filly entered full charge mode as she rushed at the cloaked pony, her blade ready to strike. The Servant however, didn't move. The pony just stood there, the dark flame burning brightly in it's hoof.

"AAAAAAaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhh!!!" she yelled as she kept getting closer and closer. Then, as she was just a few paces away, she jumped into the air with blade in hoof. "Take this!"

Her blade swung down in a perfect vertical strike, a dark aura surrounding the blade. As the sword began to strike it's target, it let out a loud 'Tink!' as it instead hit the floor. "What?!" Trixie gasped as she suddenly lost her foe. She frantically looked around, only to see The Servant on the other side of the room. "How did you-"

"Dark Firaga." The Servant grimly said in a cold tone. The dark flame in it's hoof exploded, turning into several dark fireballs. The flames flew through the air, all aiming to strike Trixie.

But Trixie was ready. She leaned her blade back, her eyes closed as the attack got closer and closer. Then, right before the strike, she swung her blade around, knocking every dark flame away.

"Ha! How do you like-urk!" she gasped as The Servant appeared before her, strangling her neck with just it's hoof.

"Be silent filly. I will tell you this as I have told you before, you are not worthy of the gracious wondrous gift that is the Darkness." it's grip tightened as Trixie began to flail about in pain. "Now, submit that speck of Light of yours. You're barely worth my time as is."

"Shut...up..." Trixie said as she pulled at The Servant's arm. "Let...Trixie...go..."

"Give up the Light and I'll-ugh!" A blue hoof smacked into The Servant's face, causing the grip to loosen. Trixie then fell over, quickly turning around to buck her hindlegs into the pony's face. However, before she could, The Servant had already hopped backwards across the room. "Tch...I see you still got some fight left in you."

"Enough to kick your sorry flank!" Trixie yelled back as she a dark flame appeared in her hoof this time. "Dark Fira!"

"Oh please, don't think-" The Servant said as the pony swatted the fireball away effortlessly. As the flame sputtered out, Trixie appeared on The Servant's left, blade ready to strike. "You can-" The Servant dodged the blade swipe and then punched Trixie in the face. "hurt me so easily!"

The blue filly went skidding down the room, her whole body in pain as The Servant dashed towards her, quickly pinning her to the floor. It's hoof was square on top of her face, the pressure was numbing as her cheek began squishing into the concrete. The Servant let out a chuckle as the pressure continued to be applied.

"Do you see this now Trixie? Do you see the power I command?"

"Trixie..." she said, her teeth gritting as she her twitched in discomfort. "Trixie sees..."

"And? Are you not afraid of my overwhelming power? Of my strength that you rejected because you sought Light?"

"No."

"No?" The Servant's hoof forced itself even more. "Why do you say that little filly?!"

"Because...Trixie is gonna win."

The Servant began to laugh. The pony laughed so hard that it instantly hopped off of Trixie and stood at the other side of the room. "You're going to win? You can't be serious." A dark flame reappeared in the pony's hoof as the same malicious smile reappeared. "I am the fear inside your heart. I am the one you fear most...and I will never leave your side." The flame split into two and began to float in the air as The Servant put it's two hooves together to make a third flame. "I am the end of the road Trixie. Your fear will consume you and I will make it happen."

"You're wrong." was all Trixie could say as she slowly got up. "Trixie's gonna beat you."

"Brave last words." The Servant said as a fourth flame appeared. "This is the end for you Trixie Lulamoon. The fear in your heart will always win."

Trixie didn't say a word. All she did was grip her blade, her eyes fully focused on the cloaked pony. As her opponent began to wave it's hooves in a circular pattern, she merely tightened her grip on last time.

"Die you insignificant worm! Perish before me, your true fear!" The Servant yelled as the flames formed a diamond in front of the pony. "Dark Firaga Barrage!"

Each of the four flames split into five fireballs, each of them colored in a dark black hue. As the now twenty fireballs covered the room, they rushed in, ready to strike Trixie down in an instant. Trixie merely did a small spit take and said, "You got one thing wrong Servant."

The next exchange only lasted for a split-second. At that very moment, The Servant saw something in that moment that it didn't understand. At that singular moment, it was if a cloak of darkness covered Trixie. And yet, it didn't possess her. Instead, it was if she wearing darkness on her sleeve. Naturally wearing it, as if it part of her very being.

SHING!

"I'm not afraid of you anymore." Trixie said as she appeared on the other side of the room, her body free of burns. Every fireball had missed, all of them striking the floor and walls in a brilliant display of firepower. The Servant just stood there, jaw dropped. In that moment, the pony had lost sight of the filly.

"Wha..." The Servant gasped, clutching it's chest. "No...how did you..."

"Trixie's heart is better than that. Trixie knows that now."

The Servant fell to it's knees. It's hoof covered it's mouth as it felt the pain the filly had just caused. "This...isn't over. I'm...still here."

"I know. You'll always be here, won't you?"

"Yes..." The cloaked pony said as it began to fade, it's cloak become paler. It was as if you could see right through the pony now. "I am not done...I will return." The Servant then glared at Trixie will a huge evil grin. "I am your darkness Trixie. I will never give up."

"Neither will Trixie." Trixie then turned around and glared at The Servant. "And you got one last thing wrong."

"What's...that?"

"Trixie's darkness is her own. You're nothing but a bad memory."

The Servant let out one last chuckle. "Heh heh heh. We'll see...about that."

And then, it was over. The Servant vanished into nothing but a shady mist. Seeing this, Trixie let out a small sigh as the room began to fade around her. The orb that contained her and The Servant was falling apart. It was there that a smile covered the blue filly's face.

BOOM!

"WHOA!" Twilight yelped as the 'BOOM!' sound wrung throughout the castle. She had just finally been convinced to go to bed while Radiant had agreed to watch the dark orb that had imprisoned Trixie. Once again, she was just about to start the first chapter when her ears began to ring from the sudden noise. "What was that? It sounded like...Trixie!"

The purple filly quickly hopped down and ran through the castle, her mind abuzz with worries about her friend. She soon found herself in front of Radiant, who had just witnessed the dark orb exploding.

"Trixie!" she yelled as she quickly tackled the filly into a hug. "I'm so glad you're okay!"

"Augh! Get off Sparkle! That hurts!" Trixie exclaimed as pain receptors went to work down her spine. Twilight quickly released the hug and apologized as tears fell down her face. Seeing her friend's worries, Trixie patted her on the back, saying, "It's okay Sparkle. It's over. It's all over..."

"But-"

"It's fine. Trixie is...fine." Trixie said as she hugged Twilight again, a tear appearing under her left eye. "Trixie won."

"I can see that. Well done Trixie." Radiant said as she patted the duo on their backs. The two separated and Radiant gave Trixie a 'You do realize you're still in trouble for doing that, right?' look. Seeing this, Trixie's ears lowered as a look of shame plastered itself on her face. Radiant on the other hoof, gave a huge cheerful smile. "Ah, it's fine Trixie!"

"Huh? But isn't Trixie gonna be punished?"

"We'll talk about what happened here tomorrow, alright? Let's just go to bed already, I'm bushed."

Twilight and Trixie glanced at each other in surprise before then replying in unison. "Okay!"

"Good. Now, off to bed you two!"

The two fillies quickly left the room, both of them in states of pure exhaustion. They would sleep well tonight. Radiant however, just stood there. She rubbed her chin as the previous events replayed in her mind. She did it. She repelled the darkness inside of her. And yet, she did it so early on. The chances of what she just did were about...thirty percent at best. Hmm...I can't help but think that this event happening so early will cause problems. Then again, there's only one pony I could think of that would know that this is happening. Radiant's calm face turned into a deep, hate-filled scowl as she began to think about that pony. The Master would have definitely sensed this trial over darkness. Question is...who is The Servant and did that pony also sense this?

Meanwhile...

The Servant had just finished giving the last order for the Heartless. As the pony then left the room, content as the pony let it's four new pawns fight minor Shadow Heartless. The cloaked pony began to enter another room, only to come to a screeching halt. What the-that other me. It's gone. I can't feel it's presence anymore. The pony's nose twitched as it began to realize something else. This...I can't sense where Trixie is anymore! Is she dead? Or...did she figure out how to conceal her Darkness? No...that can't be it. Nopony can resist the Darkness.

A loud sigh followed as The Servant sat down with a slight frown. "She must be dead then. Too bad, she had such promise..."

"Master? Are you here?" said a voice. The Servant turned to see Starlight Glimmer walk in. "Servant? Is that you?"

"Indeed. Hello Starlight. Did you succeed in driving off those other-worlders?"

"Yes." Starlight nodded. "I was about to tell The Master of my success."

"I see." The Servant then got up, a loud groan following, "The Master has retired for the day and I plan to retire soon as well. The Master told me that you have the rest of the day off."

"Oh, okay. Thanks for telling me Servant."

"No problem. Say, would you like to see the progress of the four you brought to us?"

"Sure, why not?" Starlight replied as she walked with The Servant. "Probably more fun than those wimpy off-worlders."

"Oh really? No challenge?"

"Oh yeah. Just a dumb colt and a walking talking cat...which is really weird now that I think about it." Starlight said as she rubbed her chin. "Wonder what they're up to right now?"

Meanwhile, very far away from Equestria...

"You did what?!" Reeve yelled, the room almost shaking from his scream. In front of him was one Hope Estheim and a cat named Cait Sith. The duo were shaking as their boss glared at them with a stare that could scare monsters. "Are you serious?! You let an intruder get on board of your ship and it's someone from Equestria?! The world that the WRO doesn't have access to thanks to it's stubborn leader?!"

"Er...yes?" Cait gulped, it's body shivering head to toe.

"And why is she here?!" Reeve said as he pointed at Maud Pie. The girl just stood there, a blank expression on her face. "Why did you bring her inside the base?!"

"Uh...because I had to since the autopilot already got us to base? I had no choice Mr. Reeve. I'm sorry." Hope replied, bowing in apology. "She told us that her parents probably won't be worrying about her being gone...yet."

"Oh really? Why is that?"

"She said her parents don't mind as long as she's interacting with some kind of rock."

"Huh?!"

A few hours ago on a certain rock farm...

"Pinkie!" yelled a rough looking stallion as he walked into a certain room.

"Yes daddy?" Pinkie replied, a huge grin shining on her pink face.

"Where's your sister? Where's Maud?"

"Oh Maud? She said she was gonna play camouflage with Boulder for a few hours."

"Oh...okay. As long as she's back for dinner at some point then I don't care." he said as he left the room. "After all, as long as she's interacting with a rock, everything should be just fine."

The Present...

"Yeah, we were uh...skeptical about it to." Hope replied as several gulps went down his throat.

However, that was nowhere near enough for Reeve. As his face began to turn red, the sound of footsteps could be heard. Before Reeve could say his words of fury, two girls rushed into the room.

"Mr. Reeve! We heard that-huh?" said a redheaded girl with red eyes. She wore a white long-sleeved blouse with a blue vest. Behind her was a pink haired girl with two ponytails. She wore various charms around her neck and waist and had a brown fur skirt on.

"Oh hey! Hope's back!"

"Hey Vanille." Hope said in a slightly still terrified tone. His eyes then shifted to the redhead. "Hey Refia."

"Hey Hope. Say, who's this little cutie?" Refia asked as she bent down to Maud's level. "You're a real cute one."

"Hello. I'm Maud Pie." Maud replied, her tone still deadpan. This toned reply didn't faze Refia though.

"Hi Maud! I'm Refia and this is Vanille!" Refia replied gleefully while pointing to Vanille. "It's nice to meet you!"

"Hello." Maud said as she looked Vanille and gave a small wave.

"Ladies!" Reeve yelled, causing the two to look back at their employer. "Why are you here?"

"Oh! Right. Sorry boss." Refia replied as she scratched the back of her head, blushing. "Shelke wanted us to tell you that we're out of fuel for the ships for the next few days. Apparently the shipment is late."

"Ugh...fine." Reeve groaned, facepalming. "Just tell her to get the reserves ready. I need to send this girl back to her home."

"But-"

"Just do it!" Reeve yelled, causing the girls to stiffen up. He then turned his attention back to Hope and Cait. "And you two! Tell me, just why do you think I'll ever let you do another mission after this slip-up?!"

"Uh..." Hope stuttered before Reeve began to yell again.

"And don't say that you'll make sure nothing goes wrong next time! You're lucky we still have two other agents in Equestria! Otherwise, I'd tear both of your hides because that would have meant that we just lost everything we had with that world!" Reeve then rubbed the top of his head in frustration, his eyes closed as anger continued to pop veins onto his face. "Thank the stars I made sure we had multiple agents on that world...blasted Celestia." He then opened his eyes again, glaring at Hope. "I'm going to give you one last chance kid. You better make it count."

"Okay." Hope gulped. "What's the mission?"

"Simple." He then pointed down. "It's taking that girl back to..." He then blinked, seeing the spot was now empty. The other two also looked down, blinking in unison. "Where did she go?"

A moment of silence soon followed as the trio looked at each other. A certain fact entered their brains as they realized something. Refia and Vanille were also no longer present. Then, as if everything would need to happen in perfect sync, they all facepalmed at the same time. "Refia!"

Meanwhile...

"Hey Shelke!" Refia said as Maud followed her, their hands holding each other. Refia and Vanille had been trying to do some small-talk with Maud as they walked down the hallway, only to hear Maud repeatedly say things related to rocks. As they entered Shelke's room, Refia spoke up, "Are you here?"

"Yes." Shelke replied as she tapped another computer screen. "What do you want Refia?"

"Do we have any reserves for ship fuel?"

"Let me check..." Shelke replied as she began to type, several images appearing and disappearing on her screen. "Hmm...not enough for a full flight. Looks like Snow took some on his last flight."

"Thought so." she and Vanille looked at Maud with slightly worried looks. "That isn't good. That means we can't-"

"Hey Shelke, I have the-" interrupted another voice as it entered the room. The voice's owner then stared at Refia and Vanille with a cocked eyebrow. He had brown hair and a face full of freckles as he wore a yellow shirt that hid itself inside a green coat. "Hello Refia and Vanille, who's that with you? Is she new?"

"Hiya Arc! This here is Maud Pie. Say hi Maud."

"Hello."

"Greetings Maud." Arc said with a slight bow. He then walked up to Refia. "I'm surprised to see someone so young here."

"Oh uh...let's just say she's stuck here with us for a bit."

"Oh. Okay." Arc replied, knowing that Refia didn't want to talk about it. He also knew by her expression that she wanted something. "Um...can I help you Refia?"

"Yeah." Refia said as she looked at Maud one more time, her brain clicking inside as she remembered Maud's interests in rocks. "I have an idea. Do you still have any of those class crystals?"

The Darkness Within, Epilogue: Six Months Later

View Online

I recently pined over the book I found the other day. Even now, there just seems to be too many mysteries concerning 'The Key'! I just can't stand it! Maybe I'm just reading into things a little too much but...I just wish I had some more clues. Perhaps that's fate though, things don't always go my way. Regardless, I can't change what is happening right now. I must find 'The Key' or one of it's bearers. This alone unlocks the ways to many paths beyond even my sight.

-Starswirl, Report 11

CLANG!

The sound of two blades clashing rang out through the yard, the ponies wielding the blades spinning from the recoil of the clash. On one side was Flash, his blade spinning like a wind mill as he flew backward into the air. The other was Twilight as her hooves spun her around on the floor, her horn shining as she shot two beams of magic. Both were quickly blocked by Flash's shield with fit snuggly into his other hoof. The two stared at each other for only a second till the duo charged at each other again, their blades hitting each other again.

CLANG! CLANG! CLANG!

The two young ponies stood there, their blades grinding sparks. Their hooves held their swords tightly as both became interlocked in an unmoving struggle, sparks still flying around. Neither could move an inch as both of them grew big grins on their faces. Twilight especially grinned, knowing how much stronger she had become.

"That's enough you two!" Radiant yelled, quickly stopping the two from standing in a fighting lock. The crystal unicorn quickly walked up with an sly smile on her face. "I think both of you have proven that Twilight's sword training is nearly complete."

It had been six months since Twilight and Trixie's training had started. It had been a long and grueling affair for the two of them. Though Trixie had already gotten a ton of combat training from the Servant, she still trained along with Twilight. She was always there to help Twilight when she couldn't keep up with Flash's rigorous training regiment, showing her how to block with just a sword since Flash would use a sword and shield. The training had helped Trixie accept Flash as well, though mainly through respect of their sword skills.

Twilight had changed as well. No longer did she swing her blade around randomly like an amateur. Flash had taught her how to hold the blade properly, though he couldn't fully teach her his sword and shield style. Instead, the unicorn filly had taught herself a hybrid of sword and magic style combat. Flash didn't mind this despite teaching her basically everything in terms of sword and shield combat. After all, he knew she was more adapt to using magic anyways.

Radiant had spent the past six months teaching the two the basics of light magic as well. Trixie learned basic Fire, Blizzard and Thunder while Twilight learned Fira, Blizzara, and Thunder as well. She taught the duo Cure as well, believing it to be the most handy spell of the bunch. However, despite trying to teach this valuable spell to both, only Twilight fully learned it. Trixie could not use the healing spell completely, believing it was part of her dark nature holding her back from the using the light spell. Despite this, Radiant showed her how to use her darkness as well, helping her use the Darkness without injuring her heart. Thanks to this, Trixie felt better that she could use both sides of the coin now.

The two fillies and colt had also changed in size and personality. Flash had found himself a bit less cocky as he finally started to listen to Radiant's lessons over humility. Twilight still freaked out over knowledge but to a lesser degree. It helped that Radiant would bonk her on the head anytime the bookworm got too focused into something that made her brain to go 50 miles a minute.

Trixie had also changed. No longer was she constantly frowning and sitting in a corner, depressed. Instead, she wore a confident grin and had become a bit more arrogant. Radiant found this to be a bit troubling but deemed it better than her being constantly sad. She did find Trixie refreshing though, seeing her as the 'straightpony' of the group. She would consistently point out the absurdity of Twilight's freak-outs and chuckle at Flash's inability to understand the basics of magic and constant 'meathead' attitude, which involved him slicing and slashing anything in his way.

Spike had changed the least. He had only gained a few millimeters in size along with a slightly bigger pom-pom. His wings had grown the most, making it so he could fully fly. However, thanks to the changes being minimal, he still wore his favorite purple and green coat.

But that was the past six months. Now, Radiant walked in front of the three with a large encompassing smile. She let out a small 'Ahem' before starting with what she believed would be the beginning of something new.

"Alright you three, I have some very special news." Radiant's horn shined as a letter floated in front of her. "I just received a letter from Princess Celestia."

"Princess Celestia?" Twilight perked up as she heard those words. "What does it say?!"

"Give me a second and I'll read it to you." Radiant said as she pulled out a pair of glasses. "Here we go...ah! Let's see...

Dear Radiant Hope,
I wish I was writing this because I am wishing to know the condition of my student and her friend. After all, they have been gone for several months and I believe that they will have changed quite a bit when they return to Canterlot. Even now, I wonder how much my protégé has changed.
That being said, I regret to say that I need to cut their training short. A certain...event has happened and the problem can only be solved by the keybearer. I honestly hate this fact, but I have no choice. My protégé must return to Canterlot. I apologize for the suddenness of this request, but there a is danger approaching and the keybearer is needed.
-Princess Celestia
P.S. Could you have my protégé bring back some of those crystal cupcakes you used to make? I'd love a dozen of those tasty morsels!

"The Princess needs me?" Twilight replied with shining eyes, her whole mood elevated to another level. "Oh wow..."

"Indeed." Radiant said as she folded the letter. "Seems our training is going to have to be put on hold for now."

"Yeah...Trixie guesses it's time to head back to Canterlot."

"Yep..." Twilight said before jerking her head towards Trixie. "Wait a minute! What did you just say?"

"Trixie said it's time to return to Canterlot."

"Wait, you're coming with me? But what about your training over controlling the darkness?"

Trixie shook her head. "Trixie isn't going to leave Trixie's best friend alone. Even if she does have Spike, and Trixie knows you'll take him, Trixie will be there for Trixie's best friend."

"Trixie..." Twilight gave a small goofy smile at the sentiment.

"I'm coming too." Flash said as he walked up to the purple filly.

"You too? But what about-"

"We've already discussed it Twilight." Radiant interrupted. "Flash believes he still owes you that life debt and he plans to pay it as long as possible."

"But aren't you his mother? Do you really approve of this? I thought you couldn't leave this castle...won't you be alone if Flash is gone?"

"I can't leave, that much is true." Radiant shook her head. "But that doesn't matter to me. I left the affairs of the outside world a long time ago, but I don't mind helping others who will help keep the balance of this world." Radiant walked up to Twilight, her hoof on the filly's shoulder. "Celestia needs you and you need your friends Twilight. Let them help you. Besides, you'll need Flash's extra muscle if what Celestia wants is what I think it is."

"Yeah kupo!" Spike said as he raised his furry paws into the air as he sat on Twilight's head. He had learned a few basic words over the past few months, though he could only say one of them at a time. "Friends kupo!"

Hearing these words, small tears of joy went down Twilight's face as she shined a glorious smile. "Thank you, all of you." She summoned the keyblade into her hoof as she spun it and placed the end on her back in epic style. "Let's go my friends. To Canterlot!"

"To Canterlot!"

Meanwhile...

"Hmm...so this is the amount they can spread Servant?" The Master asked as the pony scratched it's chin, the pony maintaining it's usual stance. "I'm not sure this is enough."

"I know Master. Despite the...lack of power of the four, I believe they can find the suspects we are looking for." The Servant said as the two watched the four objects shine in front of them. "They have the potential to spread true darkness...even though they can't wield it completely, spreading it is just as good."

"True." The Master stretched it's hooves as Starlight entered the room. "Ah, my apprentice. Are you ready for the last step of your training?"

"Yes Master." Starlight said with a bow. "I am always ready." The Master gestured her to go to her room, in which she quickly obeyed. A few minutes later, the Servant spoke up.

"Ready? You mean..." The Servant gasped. The pony had been constantly working with the four ponies for the past few months and had barely been around Starlight's new training. "She's ready Master? Isn't it too soon?!"

"Perhaps...but it is possible for her to train to wield it now." The Master replied as the pony pointed to the wall. There, a blade hung like a decoration on a long hook. But it was no ordinary weapon. The sword was shaped like a key. A key with a long black colored shaft with black teeth shaped like the outline of a heart. It's guard with colored dark red with a black handle. "Even I can't wield it Servant...but she could."

"I see..." The Servant began to shine a malicious grin as the pony began to rub it's hooves in glee. "That's good, very very good." The Servant then turned to The Master and asked, "So, may I send one of them? Surely Celesita would have noticed what were up to by now."

"Go ahead." The Master said as one of the four objects began to shine a magnificent light until a small object appeared into it's hoof. "Give this to the one you choose. But make sure you only send one at a time. We need to delay Celestia as much as possible."

"Of course. Thank you master."

The Master rubbed it's chin and replied one last time. "Everything is going as planned. With this, we'll make sure Celestia's keybearer is devoured by the darkness and light will finally vanish."

"Indeed master. I will try everyway possible to plan for anything random...like those otherworlders." Servant bowed again. "After all, we will destroy anything that worships the Light."

"Good."

Several million miles away...

"Alright...bring her in." Reeve said as he scratched his head in frustration. He leaned back in his chair, his suit slightly ruffled by the curve of the seat. "Can't believe I'm doing this..."

In walked a small girl in a large purple coat. Her hair was tied in knots for a single ponytail, complete with a square ribbon at the end of the strands of hair. The top of her coat had a large white poofy ball attached, along with a white line outlining the hood and middle of the coat. The white outline was also on the end of the sleeves and the girl had padded brown gloves on. Her coat had a small belt around it with two bells attached to each side.

"Hello Maud."

"Greetings sir." Maud replied back, her tone still showing no emotion.

Reeve, still not fully used to her non expressiveness, decided to continue anyways. "Despite my original...protests to you becoming a junior agent for us..." Reeve grit his teeth as he got up from his chair. "I have to admit that you have completed your training in a spectacular fashion. Due to this, Refia has told me that you have successfully achieved the title of 'Novice Geomancer' and your ability to use geo magic is quite impressive. Is this correct?"

"Yes." Maud replied, her body completely still as if she was a statue.

"Good." Reeve nodded. "If that's the case..." He snapped his fingers as several screens appeared behind him. There, it showed two different agents, both with the word 'Missing' over their heads. "I have a mission for you."

"Okay."

"Six months ago, I sent four agents to your homeworld of Equestria. As you know, two of them accidentally brought you back and are now currently scanning desert worlds for life instead of seeing action now. Though I plan to get them back on the field soon, I decided to use you instead for this mission."

"You need me to find the other two agents that went to Equestria?"

"Yes. We lost contact with them about two days ago. Regularly, we would've already sent a team but..." Reeve groaned as he snapped his fingers again, the screen switching in response. This time, it showed several profiles, all with 'Assigned' or 'In Recovery'. "No one is currently on standby. The closest agents are Hope and Cait...but even they're too far away. If I ask them to come in now, I fear they would arrive too late. That's why I want to send you."

"Okay."

"Also, I want to send you because it's your homeworld and..."

"You want me to visit Princess Celestia, don't you?" Maud interrupted, her tone still unchanging.

"Yes." Reeve growled, trying to hide his frustration. "I'm hoping you can...show her that I mean no harm. Granted, I honestly wish I could just get a basic conversation going with her but...that's how it works."

"Okay. I'm ready."

"Good." Reeve said with a salute. "You leave as soon as possible. Make sure you say goodbye to Refia and the others before you go though. They'll never forgive me if I don't let you do that."

"Understood." Maud replied with a salute back.

Canterlot...

Twilight and her three companions had just entered Canterlot Castle, their saddlebags already heavy on them from the load of stuff they had brought from Radiant's castle. Well, with the exception of Spike, who was just wearing his usual purple and green coat. The foals were given entrance immediately, which caused them to let out a sigh of relief due to the scary guards. Trixie felt especially nervous from the guards, knowing she had struck down a few six months ago. Flash found himself enamored by the building, his eyes constantly shifting as he kept looking around, watching every sight around him. Spike had to keep pulling his ear, trying to remind him that he needed to follow the girls. A few minutes inside, they entered the throne room. There, they found a different sight than they were expecting.

"Cadance?!" Twilight gasped as she saw the pony standing in front of Celestia's throne. Trixie and Flash just looked at her and then at Twilight in confusion.

"Who?" Trixie asked.

"She's my old foalsitter!" Twilight replied in a cheerful tone. She quickly ran up and hugged the pink alicorn. "It's so good to see you!"

"It's good to see you as well Twilight." Cadance said as the two started to do a little dance. Trixie and Flash giggled at the sight, finding the happy dance refreshing. After this, Cadance then walked up to the other foals. "Greetings you two. I am Cadance, the Princess of Love."

Flash quickly bowed. "I am Flash Sentry, it is an honor to meet you Princess Cadance."

"Trixie is Trixie Lulamoon." Trixie replied as she did a slight bow, her hoof tipping her purple sparkled hat.

"It is an honor to meet you two as well." Cadance nodded. Her eyes widened a little as she saw Spike sitting on top of Flash's head. Cadance's eyes shined at the moogle as a big goofy grin covered her face. "Oh my goodness, it's so cute! Is this Spike?"

"Hello kupo." Spike waved, not knowing what was about to happen.

"Awwww!" Cadance squealed as she grabbed and hugged the moogle in a vice grip.

"Aaaaaah! Help kupo!" Spike cried as he flailed his tiny paws around. "Flash kupo! Help!"

"Uh..." Flash replied as a shiver went down his spine. Him and Spike had become good friends over the past six months. He had helped the moogle with his stamina, making sure that when he grew into his wings, he could then fly. Soon, the little guy could start flying as his wings formed and the two had bonded quite well from the experience. It also helped when Radiant showed Flash some food called: 'Kupo nuts'. She had an extra reserve of them and showed them that they were a treat that moogles always loved. However, this situation was a bit different for the two friends. As soon as Flash tried to reach for the moogle, Cadance gave him a death stare, causing him to shrink into the floor. "Sorry buddy. I don't know if I can help you."

"Cadance. Please stop torturing the little guy." said another voice. They all turned to see a white unicorn with a jet blue mane. Twilight's eyes started shining at the sight while Trixie started to now shrink into the floor.

"Shining!" Twilight exclaimed as she ran up and hugged her brother. "It's so good to see BBBFF!"

"BBBFF?"

"Big brother best friend forever." Shining replied as he patted Twilight's head. "Good to see ya sis."

"You too..."

As the siblings continued to hug, Trixie's eyes kept wanting to shrink. She felt like the world was about to end in front of her as she stared at Twilight's brother. That's Twilight's...oh no. He'll kill me! I took his captain's heart and-

"You okay Trixie?" Twilight said, snapping Trixie out of her panicked trance. "You're looking a bit pale there."

"Uh, er, well...Trixie is fine!"

"Well you don't-" Twilight stopped as her brother put his hoof on her shoulder. He gave the blue filly a slight glare as he began to speak up.

"It's because of me, isn't it? You're afraid of me, aren't you?"

"Uh..." Trixie muttered as she began to backpedal. Twilight could see her shivering form, looking like she was about to sprint out of the room. As Twilight was about to say something to stop Shining, Cadance spoke up as she released Spike.

"Shining. I don't know what this is, but you're scaring that filly."

"Well-"

"Stop it right now." Cadance said as she went up to her coltfriend, glaring. She then turned to Trixie and gave a calm kind smile. "Don't worry, this wimp isn't gonna hurt you. I won't let him."

"But-"

"Quiet you!" Cadance said as she stuffed her hoof into his mouth. "Now...you're probably wondering why I'm here instead of Princess Celestia."

"Oh! That's right!" Twilight replied as she walked to Trixie's side, her hoof around Trixie's shoulder. "Why are you here Cadance? Miss Hope's letter said Princess Celestia needed my help."

"She's currently in a meeting with the local city council." Cadance explained as she turned and began walking to a door. She motioned them to follow her. "So...she asked me to instruct you on why you're here and show you as well."

"Oh. That's different." Twilight replied with an expression of surprise. Cadance then signaled them to follow her. They soon left the throne room and proceeded to another hallway. There, they met a dead end. "Um Cadance...there's nothing here."

"Not quite." Cadance said with a wink. She then tapped a part of the wall three times, causing a hidden door to appear. The trio jumped at the sight while Spike just floated up Flash. Cadance could only giggle at their surprise, also earning a chuckle from Shining Armor. "I know, it surprised me the first time too."

They soon went inside the hidden door which lead to long dark staircase. As they went down the winding stairs, Cadance spoke up, "This hidden entrance leads directly inside the mountain that Canterlot sits on. Several centuries ago, Starswirl and Clover had a team of ponies carve out several hidden areas back here with Aunt Celestia's approval."

"Wow..." Twilight gasped as the words 'Starswirl' and 'Clover' entered her ears. "Is this...a secret study of theirs?!"

"You could call it that. Auntie said it was a bit more of a...hidden lab of sorts." Cadance replied as they reached a large stone door. Shining's horn began to glow as he opened the door in one swift magical motion.

There, the foals' eyes shined at the next sight. Inside was a giant library of books, more than anything Twilight had ever seen. There were also several walls made of pure steel along with several non-functioning machines beside them. The sight confused Trixie and Flash, unable to comprehend just what they were looking at. Twilight on the other hoof, knew what most of it was at first glance.

"Incredible!" she exclaimed as she pointed to several devices inside. "Is that a electric turbine over there? I thought those were theoretical... and is that a generator prototype? Amazing! They truly were far beyond their time!"

Flash and Trixie looked at each other in skepticism as they watched Twilight nerd out from the sights. Flash then said, "You getting any of this?"

"No. Trixie is only interested in magic, not science mumbo jumbo."

"Ah. Makes sense."

Twilight freaked out for just a small while until her attention was caught by a new sight. In the middle of the room was one thing she didn't understand. At least, she thought she did...but once she looked at, she knew it was unnatural. However, it wasn't just one thing. It was six things.

In the middle of the first room they had walked into stood six large mirrors. They seemed...bizarre in nature to Twilight. They were tall, and had a silver crystal-like material outlining around them. Also, four of them had an odd shaped hole on top.

"What is this?" Twilight asked as she slowly walked in, her brain barely able to process the sight in front of her. "These mirrors...they aren't normal. I can feel a strange magic flowing from them."

"Good call." Cadance said with an approving grin. "You are my aunt's protégé."

"What do you mean Cadance?"

"Simple." Cadance then clapped her hooves. With that signal, Shining pulled out a small block and inserted it into one of the mirrors, causing it light up. "These mirrors are going take you to where your mission is."

"Mission?"

"That's right. Beyond this mirror is some place that the Heartless are tormenting." Cadance then stood in front of the mirror as her horn began to shine. After this, her and Shining's magic fully activated the mirror. "It's time for you and your friends to hunt some Heartless."

Ohana, Prologue: I'm All Shook Up

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That accursed mirror. Despite all of my best intentions, I should have never made that thing. I know I needed it to banish those three monsters a longtime ago but...it is as my master said. It is something that shouldn't be meddled with. Clover is always right. WHY?! Why is she always right?! Why is that my research over worlds, magic, and even 'The Key' always wrong?! Why...why does it all amount to nothing? Is that it? Is this research too dangerous to continue?!

No. I believe there is a purpose to this. I know there is something else at work here. If that is the case...I need to see if I can make other mirrors. Perhaps if I can make more portals...maybe that can get me the answers I seek.

-Starswirl, Report 34

"Okay...even I had trouble with what you just said Cadance. Could you say that again?" Twilight said as she glanced back at the glowing mirror. Her and her friends had just spent the last few minutes debating exactly what Shining and Cadance meant in terms of 'a mission of hunting Heartless'.

"Sure." Cadance then tapped the glowing mirror with a slight grin. "For starters, I was skeptical just like you Twilight but...this mirror leads to another world. When auntie first showed it to me, I didn't know what to think. But, she told me: 'I keep at least one guard always watching these mirrors to see if anypony interferes with other worlds and I think somepony is. That's why we need Twilight. It's a keybearer's duty to protect those worlds.' or something to that nature."

"Which Trixie thinks that to be kind of crazy."

"I agree with Trixie." Flash said as he let Spike sit on top of his head. "I'm all for going and fighting something, but even I got to admit that this sounds a little too out there."

"I know it is." Cadance gave a cheeky smile. "But it's the truth. This is one of the duties of a keybearer and Twilight is one of them."

"Yep." Shining continued as he stared at Twilight. "I myself was also skeptical. That and I didn't like the fact that my sister was the one going through this thing but...Princess Celestia has entrusted this task of showing you this to me and Cadance. I can't deny that."

Hearing these words, Twilight knew they were telling the truth. She had known her brother to being the most overprotective pony on the planet and even he was okay with this. Celestia must have shown him something truly different to make him agree. "Okay. I'm in. I just have to hunt Heartless over there, right?"

"Not quite." Cadance shook her head. She then pointed to the top of the mirror. "See that block?" Everypony nodded. "That's a gummi block. It's a special block that activates this mirror. It comes in a set of two."

"Two?"

"Yes." Cadance's horn began to shine as the block was slowly removed from the mirror, only for it to continue glowing. "It is needed to activate and summon the mirror."

"So...we're taking this block with us, aren't we?" Twilight said as Cadance confirmed her thoughts by handing her the block. "And I'm guessing when we cross over to this world, we use this block to summon a mirror back to Equestria."

"That's correct." Cadance nodded. "Don't worry, we can keep the mirror active over here as long as you need it to be active."

Trixie then walked up to Twilight and gave Cadance a deadpan stare, "Let Trixie guess. The enemy has a similar block to the world that this mirror goes to?"

"That's also correct. According to the Starswirl reports auntie gave me, he found that these four mirrors are the only ones that have counterpart mirrors. And..."

"She believes this 'Master' has the other blocks." Shining continued. "And thanks to a dark aura that surrounded this mirror earlier, we know that somepony is doing something with that world. It's why she always keeps a guard watching it."

Trixie scratched her chin in thought. She had an idea of what was really going on. "Trixie is gonna guess that The Master sent a minion to spread Heartless. Some weak pony that's just strong enough to spread a little Darkness but nothing else."

"Like when you were at Canterlot?" Shining replied with a angry scowl.

"No." Trixie shook her head, her expression fading into a slight depression. "Trixie was sent to eliminate the keybearer. The ponies they're using are much weaker. They probably only know basic dark spells so their hearts won't be consumed before they fulfill their duty."

"Huh." Shining tried to think up something else to say, but his marefriend quickly stopped him with a glare. Twilight could only chuckle at the exchange. She knew her brother was already whipped.

Seeing this as a chance to take the initiative, Cadance spoke up, "So...in conclusion, your mission is two things. One, hunt the Heartless and two, find this other block and bring it to us. If we have the other block, The Master can't send ponies to that world. Also, there's one more rule to this..."

"What's that?"

"You can't meddle with the other world. That means you can't tell anypony where you're from. You're only there to defeat the Heartless."

"Alright." Twilight gripped her saddlebag and put the gummi block inside. She adjusted the bag as she looked her companions, seeing if they were ready. Trixie tipped her hat and gave an approving nod. Flash gave a salute, showing he was ready for anything. Spike gave a small salute, mimicking Flash's. All four then faced the mirror in anticipation. "Guess we better start the mission, huh?"

Before they could took another step, Shining and Cadance approached the four and gave them two reassuring grins. Shining patted her sister on the back. "You'll be fine Twily. You're my sister after all."

"I know BBBFF. Thanks." Twilight gave her brother a hug back.

"Good." Shining looked at the others with a smirk. "You three take care of her, alright?"

"We will." Flash said with a nod. "Wish us luck."

"You'll do fine." Cadance said as she spread her wings. A shining smile radiated from her face as she gave them one last nod. "Be careful, Twily and her wonderful companions."

The four looked back at the mirror one last time and with four resounding gulps, leaped into the mirror. What followed was something akin to rollercoaster to the four. Their bodies felt like they were thrust through a tornado as they all screamed through the portal, start to finish.

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!"

"KUUUUUUUUUUUPPPPPPPPPOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!"

One vomit-inducing portal jump later...

"Ow!" Twilight said as her body made a resounding thud on the ground. "Ooohhhh...that hurt. I feel funny..."

She wasn't wrong in that aspect as he eyes opened from the fall. Her head shook left and right as she slowly got up, her eyes adjusting from the impact. She blinked as she stared at the ground before lifting her head up. There, she saw one moogle she knew quite well, staring at her confused. Though, he was confused as well, as his usual green and purple coat was now a green and purple hued shirt on the moogle's body.

"Spike, what happened to your coat?"

"Kupo..." Spike replied, his voice slightly shaking.

"What's wrong Spike? What is..." But she couldn't finish her next question as her eyes drifted to her hoof. Except that it wasn't a hoof anymore. It was a hand. "What in the name of-"

Twilight fell backwards and stared at her hands, her mind in pure confusion. What is this?! Why do my hooves look like a hoof with five tiny long hooves on them?! She looked at her legs, only to see sneakers with white socks in the shoes. It was there that she felt the clothes on her, especially since she was used to going around without clothes except for saddlebags. Why am I fully dressed?! Why do my legs look that?! What am I?!

"Kupo?" Spike said, snapping Twilight back to reality before she could start having a panic attack.

"Yes Spike?" Twilight said as she looked back at the floating creature. It was then that a certain thing dawned on her. Trixie and Flash! They were supposed to be with me! Twilight began to glance around, looking for friends. Don't tell me they got separated when we- her thought was interrupted by the sight of two other individuals both shaking their heads, just a few feet away from her.

"Uh..." Twilight wasn't sure what to say at the sight in front of her. One of the two she was looking at had a light blue shirt and skirt on. The skirt showed a wand just like Trixie's cutie mark along with light blue sneakers and a big puffy blue and purple hat with stars all over the headwear. The other was a boy, equipped with a white t-shirt that a design of a shield with a lightning bolt on it. He had brown cargo shorts on and brown sneakers. She guessed it had to be Flash, who else would have that shirt? Well, that and the fact that on his back was his usual sword and shield.

"Trixie? Flash? Is that you?"

"Twilight? What is...huh?!" Flash gasped as her stared at her, his eyes squinting. "Is that you? You look...I don't know. What happened to you?"

"I was about to ask you the same thing." Twilight replied as she looked at the other, who was now waking up.

"Ooohhh...Trixie feels like Trixie's gonna hurl." she said as she shook her head in discomfort. "What happened?" Her eyes blinked several times as she began to look around, only to see Twilight and Flash in their new forms. "What the-who are you two?!"

"Hi Trixie." Twilight waved her hand. "It's me. Twilight."

Trixie squinted her eyes, trying to look Twilight up and down. "Twilight? Is that really you? What happened?!"

"Look at your hooves."

"Huh?"

"Just do it."

"Okay, but Trixie doesn't see how that's-what in the-AAAAAAaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhh!!!" she yelled as she began swatting her hands around. "What is this?! What is Trixie?! What happened to Trixie's hooves?!"

"Calm down." Flash replied with a bonk to her head. Twilight chuckled at the sight as Trixie yelled back at him.

Twilight continued to watch the banter until she noticed something else. The four had landed in a small but not dense forest. In fact, the trees quickly made her jump as she noticed they weren't regular pine trees or basic forest foliage. They were palm trees and plenty of them. She crawled to look over the nearby bush and saw a large beach in the distance. Oh wow, wherever we are, it sure is tropical looking. I've never been to the beach before. I've read about them though.

As she continued to look around, she saw another similar being to the ones they had become walk by, not noticing them. But what intrigued her was that the individual was bipedal. Wait a minute...does that mean I'm a biped now? She looked at her new feet and gave a shrug. Might as well find out.

Slowly ascending up, she quickly noticed her weight supported such a stance. Her arms flailed just a little but before she stood perfectly still on two legs. Guess I am. And looking at the other that passed by us, I'm guessing that I'm in a filly body version of...whatever species this is.

"Twilight? Why are you standing like that?" Flash commented as his argument with Trixie ended.

"Trixie agrees. Why are you doing that?"

"Um..." Twilight rubbed her chin. "I think whatever we turned into are bipedal."

"Bipedal?" Trixie asked with a raised eyebrow. "Trixie needs to stand on two legs now?"

Twilight shrugged. "I guess? Go ahead and try it."

A few minutes later, all three were on two feet instead of four. Flash began doing stretches while Twilight and Trixie just flexed their fingers. They were fascinated about how flexible they were. Flash then started to pat his back, only to let out a groan. "Girls?"

"Yes?" Twilight and Trixie responded in unison.

"I don't have my wings, do I?"

"Nope." Trixie bluntly replied.

"Sorry Flash."

"Figures. Just like you two don't have your horns."

"Yeah..." Twilight groaned as she felt the top of her head, only to feel nothing but hair. "I already miss my magic."

"You can still use the keyblade magic, correct? And you can use that dark blade, right?"

Twilight and Trixie both summoned their weapons, surprised they appeared in their hands instead of their mouths. After a few minutes, they both summoned a small blast of ice magic. (Fire and Thunder were too dangerous for a forest at the moment.)

"Guess that still works." Twilight said as she desummoned her keyblade. "So...what do you think we should do first? I honestly think we should find out where we are and what we are. I mean, I think we're somewhere tropical, but I honestly no idea where it would be or what it's called."

Flash pulled out his blade and tried to swing it, only for it fall out of his hand. He wasn't used to gripping it with fingers. He looked back up at the girls and asked them to try to swing their weapons around. They resummoned them and also had the same problems. Seeing this, he grimaced and said, "I think we better figure out how our bodies work with combat before we do anything else."

The girls looked at each other and thought about them trying to take on the Heartless while in this form. They looked back at Flash and said, "Agreed."

Meanwhile, thousands upon thousands of miles away...

A giant futuristic hallway that was painted a distinct shade of blue carried a great deal of beings inside it. These beings were alien in nature, resembling any manner of animal, creature or even machine. But that was not the focus of what was happening in this massive hallway. No, a select few stood before a medium-sized, four eyed being. The being in question had a long white lab coat on, his expression was that of slight curiosity and confusion to why he was there.

Though to be fair, he knew. He just honestly didn't want to admit he knew why he was there. As he continued to stare a small group of different sized aliens in front of him, a long, tall, and very slender green alien stepped forth. A strong authoritative voice expelled from her mouth as she began to speak.

"Read the charges."

A giant shark-like alien behind her pulled out a small sheet. His blue coated eyes skimmed the sheet as he spoke. "Doctor Jumba Jokeba, lead scientist of Galaxy Defense Industries. You stand before this council, accused of illegal genetic experimentation."

As his statement finished, a loud blaring noise turning every head in the room to look behind Jumba as a large ship floated into the room. As the ship slowly approached the center, the councilwoman spoke again.

"How do you plead?"

"Not guilty." Jumba responded, folding his arms. "My experiments are only theoretical and within completely legal boundaries."

The councilwoman leaned in, her expression unchanging. The large ship floated over Jumba as a claw with a small capsule slowly descended down. "We believe you actually created something."

"Created something?!" Jumba gasped, "Ha! But that would be irresponsible and unethical. I would never ever-"

The claw opened the capsule, showing a small blue creature in a red jumpsuit. A loud GASP!!! could be heard throughout the room as the capsule revealed the creature.

"-make more than one."

"Grrr...rawr! Rawr rawr!" The little creature yelled, it's mouth opening, showing all of it's teeth. It quickly hopped back, it's four arms pushing the side of the capsule as it headbutted the glass, only to fall over from the failed attempt. The giant shark-like alien behind the council leaned in with an expression of anger and rage.

"What is that monstrosity?!"

"MONSTROSITY?!?!?!" Jumba exclaimed, as if he were insulted. He quickly pointed back at the captured alien and began to explain. "What you see before you is a first of a new species. I call it, Experiment 626." A giant grin shined on his face. "He is bulletproof, fireproof, and can think faster than supercomputer. He can see in the dark and move objects three thousand times his size! His only instinct...to destroy everything he touches! Hahaha!" Jumba exclaimed as he fell over in fit of joy.

"So it is a monster." the councilwoman said, her expression showing a bit more anger.

"Just a little one." Jumba replied, his face still shining with happiness.

While the trial continued, one figure sat in the balcony, a jet black coat covering their body. As he watched the demonstration, the situation made him think about all the players. The mad scientist, the morally just councilwoman, the anger-filled fish alien and the illegal creature. All these sights intrigued him. Soon, the individual got up and began to leave the room. A few moments later, a dark flame appeared in his hand and he began to speak into it. "Servant, I am ready to report."

"Go ahead Party Favor."

"You asked me to find a being with evil in them for the Heartless, correct?"

"Yes. Evil hearts make great puppets for the darkness. Have you found one?"

Party Favor showed a small grin as a dark red mist covered his soulless, almost completely dead eyes. He gave a cold but still grinning stare into the flame. "I believe I have."

"Good." The Servant then shined a smile as the pony stared right into Party's eyes. Party's grin began to fade as his eyes slowly showed a little life, but not much. The Servant chuckled at the sight as another flame appeared in it's other hoof. "Now remember my pawn. You only exist to have other individuals spread Heartless, nothing else. I've given you a little freedom with your mind, but remember, your heart is mine. Now, what is your mission?"

"Spread Heartless to distract the keybearer and Celestia." Party replied in a deadpan tone.

"And if the keybearer appears?"

"Destroy her."

Ohana, Part 1: Nothing but a Hound Dog

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I was wrong. I thought the world was so big, so insanely massive that nothing could compare to it's size. And yet...I was wrong once again. Even now, I continue to fail. I continue...to see things in such a scope that nothing could compare to what I truly see. Everything is connected. Hearts, worlds, 'The Key', Light, Darkness...all of it is connected. How small the world I live in is. Equestria. It is a speck in the endless vastness that is everything. These portals I have made proves it.

I must continue to study. 'The Key' holds the path to everything and it connects to everything.

This is only the beginning. I must research 'The Key' more than anything. That is my path.

-Starswirl, Report 36

It had been a few days since Twilight and her friends had arrived in that world. The first few were mainly used to understand combat in their new forms. After that, they found out they were a species referred to as 'humans.' Or that's what Twilight looked up once she found a local library. She also told her friends that they were still technically 'foals' in their new human forms, though they were now a boy and two girls. With this new information, they began to explore a local town.

"So...remind Trixie again, what is this place called?"

"We're in someplace called Hawaii. Or at least I think the country is called that. The island we're currently on is called 'Kauai'." Twilight said as she flipped another page in an atlas she had found and purchased. She was glad that her bits had somehow transformed into currency that worked in this world due to the portal. "Fascinating. This world continues to intrigue me."

"At least somepony is intrigued. Trixie finds this place boring and annoying. Trixie can't wait to get back to her ponyself." Trixie said as she took off her hat and wiped her forehead. "And it's soooo hot. Stupid tropical island."

"Kupo." Spike nodded in agreement and rubbed his forehead as well.

"Not only that, we haven't seen a single Heartless. And we were so sure some would have shown up after that small earthquake a few days back." Flash replied as he folded his arms behind his head. A few days ago, something had struck the island, though the four thought it was a Heartless attack. However, after trying to investigate, nothing popped up. Instead, they found a large crater on the side of the mountain and a mess of scrap metal. Twilight concluded some vehicle had crashed there, but there was no sight of the driver.

"I know, but this world is still interesting everypony. I mean, this island is just one of several of this 'Hawaii' country. Not only that-" Twilight began to rant. As Flash and Trixie glanced at each other, knowing where this was going, Spike then floated in front of them and pointed at something.

"Look kupo!"

The duo looked and saw a girl with long black hair wearing a red floral dress. With her was what looked like to be a dog, though it looked very unnatural in dog standards. It's eyes were much wider than most dog's and it's fur was colored blue. It's ears were as long as half it's body and it kept switching between walking on two legs and four legs.

"Now that's something you don't see everyday."

"Trixie agrees Sentry. That thing the blue dog is watching looks very strange."

"Watching?" Flash replied, his eyes now catching what Trixie was saying. The blue dog was standing on it's hind legs as it looked at a red television. The tv was showing an old black and white monster movie. "Huh. Trixie has never seen anything like that before."

"Come on Stich, over here." The little girl in the red dress said as the dog began to follow her. 'Follow' was an understatement, as he kept glancing around, barking and yelling at everything. It was here that Trixie felt a slight chill.

Flash glanced at her and asked, "You okay?"

"Hmm? Oh, Trixie's fine. Trixie just thought she felt something."

"Really? What did you-"

"My friends!" the girl suddenly yelled, quickly catching the duo's attention back to her. They turned their heads to see what she was looking at, only to see a sight they weren't too comfortable looking at.

The girl in the red dress quickly ran up to another girl who was wearing large glasses and was riding a toy-tricycle. They quickly noticed that the bespectacled girl was going to be trouble as she declared to the other girl. "What...do you want?!" she hissed, instantly alerting the 'she's a bully' message through Flash and Trixie's heads.

The other girl gave a small frown and began to apologize, "I'm sorry I bit you...and pulled your hair...and punched you in the face."

"Trixie thinks Trixie likes the non-spectacled one." she whispered into Flash's ear.

"Same here. But why is her dog colored blue? I've never seen a dog like that before...and why doesn't it have a leash?"

"No idea."

They decided to continue to watch the scene, the glasses girl continuing the conversation. "Now get out of my way before I run you over-aah!" she yelped as the blue dog walked up to the other girl.

The other girl seemed excited by the creature though, quickly pointing at it. "I got a new dog! His name is Stitch!"

"That...is the ugliest thing, I have ever saw!" the bully replied back as two girls behind her continued with a "Yeah!". Trixie let out a snort as she saw the bully's posse give disapproving frowns.

However, their moment would be short lived as the dog immediately went up and grabbed the toy-tricycle with a growl. The glasses girl began yelling that the dog was going to infect her as he just pulled at her toy. It was then that Flash and Trixie noticed something strange. The dog had a small dark aura surrounding it's back. They glanced at each other before trying to signal Twilight, whose head was still face deep in the atlas.

"Twilight! Look!" Flash said as he pulled her shoulder. "That dog over there!"

"Hmm?" Twilight replied as she popped her head out of the atlas. "What is it? What the-" Her eyes then saw the aura and a gulp went down her throat. That aura was very familiar to her. She remembered seeing something similar when she first met Trixie at Canterlot Castle. "Uh-oh. That's not good, is it?"

"No. It's not." Trixie replied before cricking her fingers, ready to summon her blade. It was then that the dog noticed the four and quickly knocked the toy over, the bully quickly falling off. The glasses girl began to cry, yelling for someone to do something as Stitch grabbed the other girl and placed her in the back of the toy-tricycle.

"Shoot! It saw us!" Trixie said as the three looked at each other. "Come on, we've got to catch that dog! If he's got that kind of dark aura surrounding him, Heartless will soon show up!"

"Got it! Let's go!" Flash replied as he started into a full-on sprint. The girls soon followed as Spike placed himself on Flash's head. They soon saw the path ahead of them as Stitch quickly blasted the toy-tricycle to it's absolute limits, leaving a trail of dust behind. All three let out a sigh, seeing how fast he was going. Flash could only groan as he spoke his mind. "Darn it...I really wish I had my wings right now."

However, as soon as they all got into a full sprint, they found themselves coming to a screeching halt. On the ground in front of them suddenly appeared several shifting shadows. Soon they found themselves surrounding by around twenty Shadow Heartless along with a few Solider Heartless appearing out of nowhere.

"Ah great, looks like we found our source of Heartless!" Trixie said as she summoned her blade. She quickly assumed a battle stance, her right hand gripping the blade as her left began to conjure up a dark flame.

"We can't waste our time here!" Twilight yelled as her keyblade shined and appeared in her hand. "Let's get rid of these things and get that dog!"

"No problem." Flash unsheathed his sword and equipped his shield. He then signaled Spike to hide. "Get in my weird saddlebag on my back Spike, you'll be safe there!"

"Understood kupo!"

"Alright...let's beat some Heartless!" Twilight commanded as she put herself in a fighting position. Her two friends yelled in unison as they began to attack the dark beings.

As they started to fight, two other individuals watched them. One of them was wearing a wig, covering it's bald head as the being only had one eye. "Oh great, he's loose! And there's a bunch of weird other monsters now!"

"His destructive programming is taking effect." the other replied, a large four-eyed individual hiding behind a newspaper. He gave another glance as he watch the four chase the dog down the street. "Hmm...looks like that Party Favor individual was right. He did say that someone else would soon come to chase down 626. Though I must say, these other creatures are quite...intriguing."

"Yeah, sure." the other sarcastically replied before glaring at the four-eyed one. "You do realize that the grand council woman won't like this, right? She'll flip if your monster destroys everything!"

"It'll be fine Pleakley...though it makes me wonder. How did 626 project that odd smoke above himself? That is not in his original blueprints when I created him." the man then rubbed his chin as put down his newspaper. "Did that Party Favor individual do something?"

A few days ago...

"And remember, if you bring back that monstrosity, your freedom is guaranteed." the grand council woman said as she presented Jumba with his new ship. "It should have all the equipment you need, so go ahead and get going."

"Understood." Jumba replied as he scratched the back of his head with slight hesitation. He then looked at the ship and then the officer that was going to be joining him. "Are you sure this one-eyed noodle is necessary to come along with me?"

"Yes. He's going to be observing you to make sure you do not harm this planet and help you capture your experiment."

"Very well." Jumba sighed as Pleakly left the two as he pulled his luggage inside the ship. He then turned to another individual in the room, a cloaked man with curly blue hair. "And you, uh...Party Favor is it? You believe that where my monster went is dangerous for him?"

Party Favor nodded. "Yes. I helped observe your experiment before it escaped due to Captain Gantu's failure. I was...unable to make sure the experiment would not escape but...I believe things will soon go wrong for your experiment."

"Alright." Jumba turned around in a huff. Like being vague, eh? he thought as he grabbed what little luggage he had. "Here's hoping I can capture 626."

The Present...

I still don't trust that...whoever he was. Jumba thought as he watched Twilight's group begin to chase Stitch. He then grabbed the newspaper again as a sigh let itself out. "We'll have to make sure 626 stays away from cities until we capture him. He will instinctively go there first."

"We need to capture that monster now Jumba. That's why we're here!" The one-eyed one said as he nudged Jumba's shoulder. "So, what do we do?"

"Simple. We wait and watch. Then, we will find the moment we need to capture my little monstrosity."

And with that, the strange duo watched Twilight and her friends fight as more Heartless appeared around them.

Meanwhile in Equestria...

Maud walked out of her ship, her hoof tapping a small device as the ship turned invisible to the naked eye. She was still wearing the Geomancer outfit, along with the four bells around her belt. Her body had changed back to a pony, though it honestly didn't faze her. She merely brushed her hoof for a second before looking at her surroundings with a deadpan stare. "Home."

It had been six months since her 'abduction' of sorts. Despite suddenly leaving her home, it never truly bothered her. Thanks to the kindness of Refia and Vanille, she knew that she would get back home eventually. Because of that, Maud trained herself well in the art of Geomancy, something Refia believed she would excel at and she did. Now, she was home and she knew her first stop.

She quickly went into a solid trot, knowing her home was close by as she continued to run. She was never accustomed to running, she had always picked the slow path in her life. But here, she wanted to get there as soon as possible.

A few hours later, she found what she was looking for. The Pie Family Rock Farm. She could feel a tear almost form under her eyes as she started to get closer. She was home. As she walked up to the main house, her hoof slowly tapped the door. After a few seconds, a rough looking stallion opened the front door.

"Hello, who is-" his voice stopped as he looked the filly dead in the eye. "M-Maud?"

"Hello father." she replied in her usual deadpan tone. "I'm home."

He quickly hugged her, causing her expression to show slight surprise. A small smile appeared on her face as she began to hug him back. "You're home." he said as he stopped the hug and pulled her inside. "You have a lot to explain."

"I will." Maud replied as she walked inside. Soon, she embraced her mother along with her three sisters. Her sister Pinkie quickly decided that a party was needed for her return only to get rejected by her parents. They wanted an explanation first before celebrations. After a little bit, Maud and the others sat on some furniture as Maud let out a tiny, unnoticeable sigh. "Let me explain what happened. It started when I was playing camouflage with Boulder..."

One very blunt and non-descriptive explanation later...

"So...the reason you're wearing that outfit and everything is because you're now a...Geomancer?"

"Yes." Maud nodded, her facial expression unchanging.

"And this Geomancer class job thing...it allows you to control 'earth-like' elements? Including rocks?"

"Yes."

"Huh. And you're on a mission for this WRO that also concerns the fate of Equestria?"

"Yes."

"Alright. That's good enough for me." her father replied with a snort. He then looked at his wife with a look of curiosity. "And you?"

She slightly adjusted her glasses with a response, "Same here. She's our daughter and she hasn't changed a bit, I can tell. Besides, she was interacting with rocks the whole time, so she should've been safe."

"Thank you." Maud said as she got up and hugged them both. They were momentarily surprised, they had always known Maud as somepony who shows little emotion but were glad she hugged them. Returning the hug, she soon hugged her other family members before Pinkie declared to at least have a small party for Maud. Knowing Pinkie wouldn't take 'no' for an answer, she agreed. A party soon started as Maud watched her happy sister quickly pull party decorations out of her mane and transformed the room in a flash. Maud could only smile as she watched her family celebrate her return. She pulled a small device out of her coat and stared at it for a second, thinking. Seems nothing has changed. I guess that's good. I'll start my hunt for the agents after this.

Ohana, Part 2: Gonna Stick Like Glue Because I'm Stuck On You

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I've been around for what...fifty plus years now? Probably more, I lost track of my birthdays a long time ago. That being said, no matter what I do, I keep thinking that I wish I had something to play off of with me while I do my research. Everypony I've looked into in Canterlot are all...under my knowledge level with the exception of Clover. Though she is my teacher, her projects are her own and I can only get so much out of her opinion on certain things. That and she decided to leave to that 'Crystal Empire' place again. I've been meaning to go there myself but haven't had the time. I need to book a ride there or something.

Now that I think about it, the same goes with Princess Celestia. She's an intelligent mare to be sure, but she has too many responsibilities to help me. I'm just glad we're good friends.

Wow. I really need a pet or something to keep me company. Just can't find a brain that's like mine these days. Perhaps I'll leave for the 'Crystal Empire' myself. Hopefully there's a clue about 'The Key' there.

-Starswirl, Report 46

Equestria...

Maud looked down at the map in her hooves, her expression unchanging. She looked back up as she folded it up and gave a train ticket booth some bits. Collecting one ticket to Appleloosa, she bordered the train. She quickly took a seat in the back of car and pulled out a small device in her pocket. She barely blinked as she stared at it and tapped it with her hoof. A small holographic image appeared, showing a list of details of her mission. Hmm...according to the report, the last time the agents contacted the boss was when they were going to Appleloosa.

She glanced out the window, watching the land slowly begin to move as the train started up. Making sure she wouldn't get distracted, she looked back at the device. Let's see...the agents are a purple haired girl who wears yellowish-orange clothes and a moogle with a blonde haircut with a blue pom-pom. Huh. At least I know my targets. Now, according to the information the boss gave me, the girl is a summoner and also a white mage. The moogle is a bard, though he may resort to certain other moogle classes depending on the situation. He can also transform between two different moogle forms, one is the usual small form and the other is called the 'Ivalice' form. Hmmm...guess that means I got my work cut out for me. The filly then put up the device and pulled out a small rock. "Our first mission Boulder. Are you excited?"

No response.

"Good. I am too."

Putting the rock away, she laid her head down on the chair, her eyes closing. Soon, her mind drifted to sleep. As she did, memories stirred inside her head.

Five months ago...

"Good, good...you're doing well Maud." Refia said as she crossed her arms, tapping her elbow as she stared at her student. Maud was standing in a plain field, fully equipped with her new Geomancer outfit as she spun her hands in a circular motion. She shifted her hands forward as the ground began to shake. Refia looked down at the ground, quickly observing the earth's movements as she studied the ground closely. She rubbed her chin as she kept glaring at the moving rocks inside the dirt. Then, the ground became several giant rock spikes, all trying to pierce the sky like a bunch of drills. Again, the dirt shifted as another rock formation appeared, this one as a giant fist pointing upward. At this moment, Maud stopped manipulating the earth around her and looked at her instructor. Refia just stood there, still thinking, "Hmm..."

"Again?"

"Hmm? No Maud. That's good enough." Refia replied while shaking her head. "You're doing really well Maud. In just a month, you've picked up geomancy like it's nothing."

"Thanks." Maud replied in her usual deadpan response.

"But, that worries me Maud."

"Why?"

"Well...being great with this one class is good but..." Refia gave Maud a worried expression. "You need something more Maud. Geomancy shouldn't be the only thing you learn."

"But its the only class that involves rocks. All other combat classes don't involve rocks."

Refia shook her head again. "That doesn't mean you shouldn't try them."

Maud just looked down at the ground, her expression still not changing despite the lowered stare. Refia then went up to the girl and patted her on the shoulder. "Cheer up. Geomancer will still be your main class you use, we'll just uh...improvise what the other will be."

"Okay."

"Now, what should we choose?" Refia rubbed her chin in thought. "Hmm...we probably shouldn't use any mage classes since you're so adept with geomancy. They would just mess up your magic if you combine a bunch of different stuff. You also don't look like you could use summons or beasts well, so Blue Mage, Beastmaster and Summoner are out. Hmm..."

"Is there anything physical without weapons?"

Refia was taken back by this suggestion. Usually, Maud would only want to talk about rocks. "Well...there's Monk, Blackbelt, um...maybe Berserker? That one depends on how you use it."

"Monk."

"Huh? You wanna try the Monk class?" Refia asked, surprised at Maud's expressionless enthusiasm.

"Yes. At my home, we smash rocks all day with our hooves. The Monk class use fists the most, right?"

"It does." Refia put her hand in her pocket and pulled out a class crystal. "Alright, if you wanna try the Monk class, let's try it out."

The Present...

And it worked, didn't it Boulder? Master Refia even got me to use that class as well. Maud thought as her memories kept flowing through her head. I guess...I guess I really did enjoy being there, learning those strange things at the WRO. Even if it did mean I was away from my family.

Maud barely opened her filly eyes, just to stare at her pet rock. "Boulder...do you think we made the right choice? You know, joining the WRO and coming back here for them?"

No response.

"Yeah...I wonder that too." Maud closed her eyes again as she began to cat nap once more. I know one thing though. I don't regret it. I just wish I could have seen my family a little more.

Meanwhile...

"I got it!" Twilight yelled as she slammed her keyblade into the last Heartless. The being turned into a squished pile of dark mist as a small pink heart flew out. She then let out a sigh as she wiped her brow from the battle. "Whew! That went better than I thought it would."

"Agreed." Trixie replied as she flicked her fingers, trying to make the dark flames on her fingers vanish. "Trixie is just glad that fighting in this form isn't very hard."

"True." Flash sheathed his sword and looked at the hill below them. "That's not good though. That dog got away, which means he's probably at the beach now...or somewhere else." Flash then turned to Trixie and asked, "The Heartless appear more often if there's a bunch of ponies around or anything that has a heart, right?"

"Yes." Trixie nodded. "If that dog has a dark aura surrounding him, the Heartless will be attracted to it. But...that's not what concerns Trixie."

"What do you mean?" Twilight asked as she desummoned her keyblade.

"Well...let's just say that if that dog has an aura like that, then there's a good chance somepony gave it to him."

"Somepony...gave it to him?" Twilight tilted her head in confusion, her brain taking a second to get what she meant. "You mean the pony The Master sent here, don't you? Somepony messed with that dog's heart?"

"Yes." Trixie nodded again. "Trixie suggests we find the pawn first. Otherwise, the pawn will mess with others' hearts to summon more Heartless."

"Agreed. I'm just hoping those other ways to summon Heartless don't happen." Twilight replied as they remembered Trixie's explanation from a few days ago.

A few days ago...

Twilight shuffled her hooves as several thoughts went through her head. She had just been told about the mirror and her mission, how they were about to go into another world in order to save it from the Heartless. Her eyes stared at the mirror, knowing it was a portal and her brain told her that she needed more information. Giving a tiny smile, her horn shined as she pulled out a notepad from her saddlebag.

"Hey Trixie...could I ask you something?" Twilight twiddled her hooves as she gave a sheepish smile. Trixie gave a small nod as she continued. "If you don't mind, could you tell me how the Heartless are summoned? I know you don't usually like talking about with the whole darkness thing but...since we're about to go fight them and I was thinking that-"

"Ugh...fine. You just have to ask Sparkle. Don't be afraid about talking about the darkness with Trixie." The blue filly sighed as she rubbed her forehead in frustration. "Trixie will explain how Heartless are regularly summoned." She then gestured her hooves as her horn shined, showing the number three with a glowing aura. "There are three ways ponies can summon Heartless. The first is to have darkness in your heart and summon them through will. The more powerful you are, the more they will obey and the more Heartless you will summon."

"I'm guessing that's how The Master and The Servant do it, right?"

"Yes. The second method is to possess another's heart and mind with darkness and have them command Heartless." The others gulped at the thought as Trixie continued her explanation. "This method is probably what's happening right now. The Servant probably has another pony controlling Heartless and is having them find others to control and summon more Heartless."

"And the third method?"

"A pony has to have a...lust for power." Trixie said in a lowered tone, scratching her head. "The Heartless are attracted to hearts that are like that."

Flash and Twilight could see the pained expression on Trixie's face. They knew it was the explanation causing this because it reminded her of the reason she sought the darkness in the first place. Revenge. Seeing this, Twilight walked over and patted Trixie on the shoulder. "Cheer up Trixie, it'll be alright. Sorry I had to ask you that."

"It's fine." Trixie shook her head. "Trixie knows it'll be fine. That's why Trixie is doing this. To make amends for what Trixie did." Her head slightly drooped as a sigh left her mouth. "And to get stronger."

"And we'll be here for you every step of the way." Flash replied as he patted her other shoulder.

"Yeah kupo!"

The Present...

The trio of heroes nodded to each other as Spike popped out of Flash's bag, his eyes looking around before floating out. It was then that Twilight spoke up, "But...we don't know where the pawn is Trixie. I mean, all we know is that the dog probably got that dark aura from the pawn. The pawn probably affected that poor dog's heart. So, shouldn't we try to stop the dog first?"

"We could...but it won't solve the problem Sparkle."

"I know you're right Trixie, but I agree with Twilight. If we know this thing is gonna summon more Heartless, we should follow it."

Trixie wanted to retort back, but knew they were right. They didn't know where the pawn was or what it was planning but they did know who was summoning the Heartless. After all, getting rid of the Heartless took priority. Sighing, she then pointed to where the dog had gone. "Fine. Let's hurry up and catch that dog!"

"Right!" The other two said in unison as they all went into a full-on sprint. As they continued to run, the two others watching them glanced at each other in confusion.

"I don't like this." the one-eyed one said as he glanced at his companion. "And I already didn't like the fact that I'm stuck with you."

"Agreed. Let's follow them and 626. After all, the island will keep 626 caged...though I am curious about those strange creatures that appeared around them. Perhaps that is something that Party Favor fellow did. If he did, it is quite evil. I like it."

"Yeah. Thank goodness your monster can't swim. He just summons other monsters instead." Pleakly sarcastically replied. "Come on, I want this mission over and done with."

"Alright." Jumba replied as he hopped off the bench they were sitting on. "Let's see what my little monster is going to do next."

Some time later...

"Okay, we followed the trail that that thing the dog was riding went too but..." Twilight said as they reached the end of a hill. They had followed the tri-cycle tracks through the local town, all the way to the end of a cliff. There, the tracks ended, and no footprints were shown. Seeing this, the friends looked at each other, not sure what to do.

"There's nothing here. Must have got off the thing it was riding." Trixie continued as she crossed her arms. "Trixie suggests we spread out, cover more ground."

Agreeing to her idea, the four split up. Trixie took on the local town they had just walked through, making sure the dog didn't double back. Flash and Spike took to the local mountain. They were pretty sure the dog wouldn't go somewhere less civilized, but they wanted to cover all their bases. Twilight on the other hand, went down to the beach. There, she found what she was looking for. She found the girl and the dog, both with a small red wagon that the girl was pulling around. Peering out of a local bush, Twilight in her small girl body watched the dog as the girl in the red dress was trying to teach it something.

"Okay Stitch, fetch!" she yelled as she threw a stick. Stitch just sat there, growling. "Come on, fetch!" Seeing that he wasn't going to cooperate, she grabbed a small spray bottle from the wagon and began to shoot the dog with water. "Come on!"

"Rawr!" Stitch yelled as he grabbed the bottle and threw it like a baseball. Seeing this, the girl walked away to retrieve the bottle.

Twilight's eyes widened a little as she saw this. She had never seen an animal pick up so easily, it was as if it was sentient. That's one smart dog. It grabbed the bottle like it was nothing. She then squinted her eyes, glaring at the dog as she watched it easily stand on two legs. Wait a minute...is it bipedal? I don't understand. I thought dogs were quadrupedal...like me.

The girl then returned and yelled again. "Come on Stitch, don't be like that!"

Stitch is it's name? Interesting. Now...what do I do? Do I go ahead and hop in or... Twilight pondered as the dog threw the bottle away again. It was here that Twilight saw something that caused her brain to come to a screeching halt. The aura had returned. Uh-oh. Maybe I should...

"Stop that Stitch! That's a bad dog!"

"Rawr! Rawr! Lala patukey!"

"Hey! That's not nice!" the girl yelled back as he swatted away the bottle again. This time it flew over to the bush Twilight was hiding behind and conked her on the head. The girl walked over and saw the bottle in Twilight's hand. "Uh-oh."

"Is this yours?"

"Uh-huh. Did it hit you?"

"Yeah." Twilight deadpanned as she handed over the bottle.

"Sorry. I'm trying to teach my dog to fetch but..."

"Don't worry about it." Twilight interrupted as she shook her head. She knew that being discovered meant she had to change her plans of observation now. "Just tell your dog to obey, okay?"

"Sure." the girl nodded before tilting her head. "Say, I've never seen you around her before and you look like you're my age. Are you a tourist?"

"Um...yeah, sure. I'm Twilight Sparkle."

"I'm Lilo." Lilo said as she presented her hand. Twilight shook it, though it was a very weak shake due her unfamiliarity of her new body. Lilo then pointed to the blue dog. "And that's my dog, Stitch."

"Okay." Twilight replied as she walked around the bush and up to Stitch. "So his name is Stitch."

"Uh-huh. I just got him from the pound! Isn't he cool?" Lilo exclaimed before turning around to Stitch. There, she started to backpedal as the dark aura returned, quickly equipping itself to Stitch's back. "Um...Stitch?"

"Grrrrr..." it growled, it's teeth grinding as darkness began to swirl around the dog.

"Stop being mean Stitch! And stop that weird dark...thing...how are you doing that Stitch? It's cool looking!" Lilo asked, her eyes shining at the sight. Twilight couldn't believe she was enamored by the sight. That is, till the dog began to bark even more.

"Rawr! Engabha! Engabha!" the dog continued to bark as the aura got bigger. Seeing this, the girl began to backpedal.

"Um...Stitch? What is-"

"RAAAAAAAAAAAAAWRRRRR!!!" he yelled as the aura fully consumed him. The darkness sent out a wave, knocking Lilo over as two shadow Heartless began to emerge from the ground in front of Stitch.

"Hang on!" Twilight exclaimed as she ran up to them, quickly getting between the dog and the girl. She summoned her keyblade and swatted away two shadow Heartless as they leaped at the girl. Twilight then glanced at Lilo and said, "You have to get out of here. It's dangerous!"

"But-"

"Go! Leave now!"

"RAWR!" Stitch yelled again, causing Twilight to shift her viewpoint back to him. She gripped her keyblade as she pointed it at him, ready to fight.

"Alright little dog, let's go! I'll beat that darkness out of you!"

Twilight pointed her keyblade to the sky, shooting a blizzard spell as it flew into the air, exploding like a set of fireworks. She then pointed at the dog again before bracing herself. The two Shadow Heartless quickly jumped again, their claws ready to strike. One horizontal slash later, they were nothing but smoke as Twilight executed them like it was nothing. However, this attack left her wide open as Stitch rolled up into a ball and flung himself in the keybearer, slamming into her stomach.

"Augh!" Twilight yelled as she flew backwards from the blow, her body feeling like it had had a carriage thrown onto her. Stitch backflipped after dealing the blow, quickly landing on the ground before erupting into a fit of giggles.

"Hey! That's not nice Stitch! Bad dog!" Lilo yelled as ran up to Twilight. "Are you okay?"

"I'm...ow, fine." Twilight replied, struggling to get up. "That is not a normal dog...and I told you to get out of here!"

Lilo gave Twilight a cheeky grin. "Uh well...Stitch does kinda seem to be a little different but-"

"RAWR!" Stitch roared again, causing several more Heartless to appear. This time, they looked like five dog-like Heartless that were colored purple and had swirls for eyes. They began to roar as well, signaling they were about to charge.

"Cool! Mutant dogs!" Lilo exclaimed as three of the Heartless began to bum-rush them. As they got closer, Twilight stood in front of Lilo and quickly summoned a Fira spell. The flames flew around the two, knocking the Heartless away. "Whoa! That was cool too!"

"Yeah. Now you need to-oof!" Twilight yelped as Stitch flew into her, his legs knocking straight into her head. Twilight went flying, her body skidding down the nearby beach.

"Ha ha!" Stitch laughed as he landed, quickly shaking his butt at the keybearer. "Ighbatha! Lala patucky!"

"Stitch! I told you to stop doing that! Bad dog!" Lilo yelled, causing the dog to slightly backpedal. Despite the dark aura on his back, Stitch seemed afraid of Lilo. Lilo then pointed to Twilight with a scowl on her face. "Now apologize!"

"Bagha bagha! Igana bagha!"

"I don't know what that means, but say you're sorry!"

"Grrrr...RAWR! RAWR!" Stitch barked before two more Heartless appeared. These two looked like coconuts with legs, the Heartless symbol on their backs with a pair of pineapples for eyes and a banana for a mouth. The sight of these creatures caused two very different reactions.

"Oh cool! Mutant tropical fruit!" Lilo exclaimed as she watch the two coconut Heartless fumble around. "I wonder if they're any good to eat?"

"Oh you have got to kidding me." was Twilight's reaction as she overheard Lilo's excitement. She slowly got up from the previous blow, her head still shaking from the dog's sudden head pummel. Shaking it off, she charged again, quickly shooting a Blizzard spell at one of them, turning it to smoke. The other hopped into the air and began spinning like a top. As if the coconut had turned into a flying drill, the dark fruit spun at Twilight, trying to hit her head on. However, this move was reminiscent of a move Flash would do during training, as spinning his body would allow increased momentum in the air when attacking. Twilight quickly blocked the move and countered with a quick two stringed strike, instantly destroying the Heartless.

"RAWR! Aga Igana!" Stitch roared again as he charged Twilight once more, his body rolled up into a ball as he darted towards his opponent.

"Oh no you don't!" Twilight yelled as she quickly blocked the attack, knocking Stitch off-balance. The blue dog spun off her keyblade as he then landed on his head, stunning him. He's down! she thought as she ran up to fallen dog. I gotta do what Miss Hope said the keyblade can do. I have to get rid of that darkness. Seeing this small window of Stitch being stunned, Twilight pointed the blade directly at the dog. A small light began to shine at the tip of the blade as Twilight could feel energy surging into the sword. "I hope Miss Hope was right about this. Please let this work!"

A few months ago...

"Transferring Light? The keyblade can do that?"

"Yes." Radiant Hope nodded. "Your keyblade is one of Light. Therefore, it can transfer light into other beings."

"Other...beings? You mean things that aren't ponies?"

"Indeed. Any species can be infected with darkness Twilight. though that also qualifies ponies as well." Radiant clapped her hooves, causing an orb to appear in the room. There, the object soon began to show several images. "Look within the orb Twilight, it will show you the process."

"Okay." Twilight followed her instructions as she watched a pony with a keyblade in the orb shoot out a small beam of light from the tip of her blade. The filly was instantly fascinated as she watched the Light easily fly through the sky and into the heart of another pony that was obviously under the control of Darkness. "Wow...that's amazing!"

"I agree." Radiant chuckled as she pointed to Twilight. "And you'll be able to do that too."

"Cool..." Twilight replied before a certain thought hopped into her head. "Say, why couldn't I do that with Trixie earlier?"

"Hmm? Well...let's just say that Trixie didn't need Light in that circumstance."

"She didn't?"

"No." Radiant shook her head. "She already had the Light in her heart. In that instance, she just needed to use the Light, she didn't need more of it."

"Oh...I guess that makes sense." Twilight replied before scratching her head in slight confusion. "This keyblade stuff can be really hard to understand."

"I know." Radiant giggled as she patted Twilight on the back. "But you'll get it in time. Just like when you need to transfer Light, you'll know what to do."

"Okay!"

The Present...

"Please let this work!" Twilight yelled as the tip of the blade shined, quickly shooting a beam of light into Stitch. The light devoured the dog, quickly dispersing the dark aura surrounding the dog. The dog let out a screeching roar, causing Twilight and Lilo to cover their ears. After a few seconds, the light vanished around Stitch, leaving only the same blue dog, complete and without the dark aura.

"Whoa, what was that?" Lilo asked as she saw her dog just sit there in a confused daze. "He calmed down. What did you do Twilight?"

"I just...got rid of the darkness. At least, I think I did..." Twilight replied as she rubbed her chin in thought. Huh. Why do I feel like this is too easy?

"Well, I'm just glad he's okay." Lilo said as she walked up to him. "Hey Stitch, are you gonna summon any more of those mutant things?"

"Gaba?" Stitch replied, still in a confused daze.

"I guess not." Lilo said as she hugged the dog. "Thank goodness you're okay." She then stared at Twilight with a smile. "And thank you Twilight." Twilight gave a small nod in response.

"Ga...ba." Stitch said before slightly returning the hug. He didn't know why he did, he just felt something different is all. Like a weight had been lifted off of him. He released the hug and walked over to Twilight. "Igabatheth."

"Uh...you're welcome? Say, are you okay?" Twilight asked as she tried to pet him.

"Gah." Stitch nodded before then walking up and hugging Twilight. "Ighabe."

"Huh?" Twilight gasped, surprised by the dog that was three-fourths her size suddenly hugging her. After a second, she hugged back, a small smile on her face. "You're welcome Stitch."

"Yeah..." Lilo went up and petted her dog as he let go of the keybearer. "Say, why was Stitch doing that? You know, the whole monster summoning thing?"

"Somepony tampered with his heart." Twilight replied as she watched the blue dog walk back up to Lilo, sitting beside her before falling asleep from exhaustion. "Has he always been like that since you got him?"

"Um...I think so." Lilo said as she petted her now sleeping pet. "I saw him show a little of that dark thing earlier at the pound but...it didn't summon monsters back then."

"I see...that's not good." Twilight replied, tapping her foot while she thought, So...his heart was manipulated before he met her. If that's the case, where's the real target? Where's the Servant's pawn?

"Don't make another move!" yelled a voice behind Twilight. She turned around, only to see a wide four-eyed individual along with an one-eyed individual behind him. The four-eyed one was wielding a large cartoonish looking gun, pointed directly at the keybearer. "Step away from my experiment."

"Experiment?" Twilight asked, confused. She then turned to Stitch, who was still unconscious on the ground. "Wait a minute...you don't mean him, do you?"

"That's right. I, Jumba Jokeba created that little monstrosity." He let out a laugh as he pointed at Stitch and then back at Twilight. "He is my greatest creation, which you have somehow knocked unconscious. Now, I must retrieve him and get this silly notion of being with that little girl away from him."

"Hey! He's my dog!" Lilo barked back before the gun was then pointed at her, causing her to shut up.

"Be quiet little girl! Experiment 626 is no pet! He is a new species I have created to be a super evil weapon! Ahahaha!"

"Weapon?" Twilight replied as she remembered how the dog began to love the girl after his heart was freed. "Are you sure about that?"

"What do you mean?"

"I hate to say it, but your 'experiment' looked like it just wants to be with others." Twilight looked at the dog with a sad, yet caring face. "Maybe he just wants a friend?"

"HA! Impossible!" Jumba laughed back. "He has no actual feelings, just destructive instincts I have carefully chosen for him!" He then pointed the gun back at Twilight. It was here that Twilight saw another sight that bothered her. Jumba had a small dark aura surrounding him. It was much smaller than Stitch's but still dangerous. However, this didn't exactly matter as much as Jumba had readied the gun's trigger. "And perhaps you need a demonstration as to why he is coming with me!"

Meanwhile...

"Augh!" Party Favor yelled as he grabbed his chest, his breathing becoming irregular from the sudden pain gripping his body. He fell to his knees as the pain continued to swell. "What in the...no! It can't be!" He closed his eyes, trying to figure out what just happened, only to feel a small sensation of Light. "Light...that experiment...it got freed from the Darkness with Light. That means, the keybearer is here!"

Slowly releasing his chest, a small dark flame flickered in his palm as he raised his hand up to his face. Have to...contact Servant. he thought as pain flew through his body again. "Servant. Can you hear me?!" he panted, his voice shaking.

"I can Party Favor. Go ahead."

"The experiment. It...it's heart. It's heart was-"

"Let me guess." The Servant interrupted. "The keybearer restored it's heart, didn't she?"

"Yes." Party Favor nodded as a small drop of blood went down his lips. "I believe so."

"Very well, if that's the case..." The Servant cricked it's head as a small snort flew out it's nostrils. "You are still in contact with the other being that also had evil in their heart, correct?"

"Yes. The one called Gantu, the giant fish-like creature. He hates the experiment." Party coughed, his eyes fully covered in the dark mist as he tried to keep talking to The Servant. "I believe...he could be used."

"Good. Remember Party, you are unable to become an apprentice of darkness. Your will is too weak." The Servant commanded as the dark flame allowing for communication flickered. "Remember you are just a pawn under my control. You can only use so much darkness before your heart goes out."

"Yes Servant. I am just a pawn. I will not fail you or use too much darkness." Party droned in a monotone voice.

"Good. You understand well. Now, here are your new instructions..."

Some time later...

"Grand councilwoman, may I have a moment of your time?" Party Favor said in a low, raspy voice as he approached the green-humanoid alien. His coat's hood covered most of his face as he stumbled into the room, his feet shifting left and right. He had still not recovered from the pain of losing his pawn. It seemed losing that bit of darkness was almost too much for his body.

"Hmm? Ah. Party Favor, is it?" the woman spoke back as she turned around. "May I ask why you keep that large black coat on? Surely it must be hot in here while wearing that."

"Its fine." Party replied, slightly coughing afterward. "I have a proposition for you over the situation of Experiment 626."

"The experiment?" she said with a cocked eyebrow. "My agent and the scientist just arrived on that planet. The mission has just started for them. Why would you ask a proposition for such a thing?"

"Heh heh heh. That's simple." Party chuckled as the large fish alien known as Captain Gantu walked into the room. The councilwoman instantly saw that something was off. Darkness had taken residence of Gantu's eyes. However, before she could say anything, Party spoke up again as a dark aura surrounded his hand. In mere seconds, she could no longer speak as an aura covered her mouth. "Now councilwoman, as my last use of what little power I have...you will let me and Gantu go to this world where Experiment 626 went. You will let us go there...and be allowed to do whatever we want."

Ohana, Part 3: Come On and Do the Jailhouse Rock with Me

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There are many worlds out there. I know this more than anything. Even more than the Light, the Darkness and 'The Key'. And yet, I feel so...insignificant. So tiny in the wheels of fate, a speck of dust in the cosmos, a grain of sand in the desert. That...that is what I am. But...I know 'The Key' has something to do with all of this. It is there to establish what I must truly do. I must find a keybearer and help them. I must help them no matter what the cost.

-Starswirl, Report 12

"Listen uh...Jumba is it? Look, put that weapon of yours away, okay?" Twilight asked as she gripped her kyblade tightly, the blade just barely touching Lilo as she stood behind Twilight. "We don't need to fight."

"Oh really? You seem to forget something little girl with the weird key thing." Jumba replied with a cheeky grin, a dark aura slowly forming over his eyes. "You're exhausted from fighting 626."

As his statement struck Twilight's brain, she instantly knew he was right. Her body was already beat up from just the few blows Stitch had landed on her. His abnormal strength would have destroyed her if it hadn't been for the darkness clouding his mind. Shoot. This is bad. she thought as she glanced at her keyblade and then looked at Lilo. She saw the frightened expression on her face, fear overtaking her whole body. She's scared. After all that, all that mess with Stitch and the Heartless and now she's scared. I see...she's afraid Stitch will get taken.

Seeing this, Twilight looked back at Jumba and pointed her blade at him. "Forget it. I won't let you take Stitch."

"HA! His name is Experiment 626 and he is mine." Jumba laughed as he glared at Twilight, his pistol ready to fire. "I'll give you one last chance, hand him over and I won't hurt you."

"No."

Jumba's angry eyes slowly turned to an almost dead-like expression. "Then you give me no choice."

Twilight readied herself. She wasn't sure what the weapon was that he was currently using, but it didn't matter. The only thing going through her head was that she had to protect Lilo and Stitch. Seeing this, the tip of her blade began to charge, ready to fire a blizzard spell. Don't have a choice here, this guy has some darkness clouding his mind too. Guess I'll just have to try and hold out until they can get away. Twilight glanced at Lilo and whispered. "Lilo, can you get Stitch out of here?"

"Uh-huh." she nodded as she grabbed her dog. "But uh...what about you?"

"I'll be fine. Get going."

"Oh no you don't! You will be bringing 626 to me little girl!" Jumba yelled as he fired the pistol. Twilight's instincts kicked in and she went to block the shot with her magical weapon. As the blast hit the shaft of the sword, Twilight let out a yelp of pain as it knocked her off her feet, the blade flying out of her hand. "HA!"

"Twilight!" Lilo yelled before another shot rang out, hitting the ground right in front of her.

"Don't make another move." Jumba remarked as he pointed the gun back at Lilo. His eyes continued to glow as darkness began to fill them. "Experiment 626 is mine. He will become the greatest monster of all time."

"No he won't! He's my dog and he's part of my Ohana!"

"Ohana?" Jumba stopped, unfamiliar with the word. Twilight was also baffled, she had never heard the word as well.

"Yeah! Ohana means family, and no one gets left behind in family!" Lilo yelled as she put the knocked out Stitch on her back. "I won't let you take him!"

"Tch, then you leave me no choice little girl."

As Jumba readied the gun again, Twilight tried to get up only for her legs to give out. No! Not now! I have to...help her! her mind yelled as she summoned the keyblade back to her hand. She closed her right eye as she began aiming the blade at the mad scientist. No choice. Gotta do what Flash taught me...if you're down and have no way up, improvise.

"Blizzard!" she yelled as a blast of ice flew out of her blade. However, her scream alerted Jumba, who quickly blasted the shards before they made contact. "No..."

"HA! Nice try little-urk!" Jumba let out a yelp of pain as he was suddenly struck by a blast of fire. Twilight and Lilo looked at where the fire came from, only to see a familiar figure.

"Good grief Sparkle, already beaten up? You know, you could have waited on Trixie. After all, the Great and Powerful Trixie would have easily beaten this idiot in one go!"

"Trixie! Thank goodness you're here!" Twilight then pointed to Jumba, who was currently patting away the flames. "He's got darkness as well, you have to stop him!"

"Trixie can see that Sparkle. Trixie will-"

BLAM!

Jumba's gun rang out a Trixie's rant was interrupted by a wild shot. The blast blew a small hole into the sand as Trixie began sidestepping, her focus now on Jumba's gun. As he tried to shoot her again, Trixie saw where the blasts come from within the gun, So, that weird weapon fires it odd magic from there, eh? Very well, I'll have to keep sidestepping, best way to make sure he doesn't hit me!

Three more shots rang out as Trixie dodged effortlessly. As he readied one more try, a dark flame appeared in Trixie's hand. She released the fireball, which struck Jumba's gun, knocking it flying out of his hand. The four-eyed alien let out a yelp of pain as Trixie rushed in and kicked him in the head, knocking him down.

"Trixie! He's possessed! Don't go so far!" Twilight barked as she finally got up. Trixie merely shrugged from the comment before hopping onto Jumba, showing her blade to his throat. "Trixie! Don't you-"

"Quiet Sparkle! Trixie isn't gonna do anything." Trixie droned, tapping Jumba's throat. "Hey! Trixie knows you're still awake!"

"Uggghhhh....that hurt, weird girl with dark sword thing."

"Trixie will gladly show you what 'hurt' really means." Trixie gritted her teeth as she pressed her foot into his stomach. "Don't move."

"Trixie!" Twilight yelled as she walked up to them. "Stop being a bully! We've talked about this."

"Oh come on Sparkle! What did you-"

"Enough! We'll talk about it later Trixie." Twilight commanded before resummoning her keyblade. "Now hold still, I'm going to help you Jumba."

Twilight shot another beam of light, quickly banishing the darkness that plagued Jumba's heart. As the dark mist that was covering his eyes started to fade, Trixie hopped off of him, letting him get back up. Jumba shook his head as the pain began to subside from his heart and mind, scratching his head as he faced the duo from Equestria.

"Oooohhhh...thank you, girls with weird weapons."

"No problem." Twilight replied while glaring at Trixie. "Sorry Trixie was so rough on you."

"Hey! I just saved your flank Sparkle!"

"She is right." Jumba commented as rubbed his forehead. "After all, I do not feel like I have been thinking very clearly recently."

"Trixie agrees with that. Though Trixie has to admit...Trixie does not think somepony was controlling you."

"Really?" Twilight's eyes widened from that comment. "You mean, he got taken over from a lust for power?"

Trixie nodded. "Probably. Darkness was barely covering his body after all. The light you used Sparkle, was it very much?"

"I uh...don't know how to quantify it, but I guess so?" Twilight shrugged as she looked back at Jumba. "Say, are you okay?"

"I am fine. My evil brain is a bit jumbled but I am okay."

"Evil brain?"

"Yes. Jumba is evil genius with evil super brain. Heh heh...evil super brain. I like that." Jumba scratched his back at that thought before looking at the girls. "Sorry about all that. Glad I'm back to normal."

"Define normal."

"Trixie! Don't be rude!" Twilight barked as Jumba pointed at Lilo, who was still carrying an unconscious Stitch.

"Hey! Little girl, give me back my experiment. I need him to do some very evil things, especially concerning destruction and mayhem."

"NO! He's not an experiment! His name is Stitch and he's my dog!" Lilo yelled back as she began to backpedal. "Stop calling him that!"

Twilight then grabbed Jumba's shoulder. "She's right Jumba. I saw it when I freed his heart. Your 'experiment' just wants a friend, I could tell."

"He does not want a friend!" Jumba yelled. "I programmed him to destroy everything he touches. Why in the world would he ever want something like friends?!"

"Tch...Trixie is not sure you freed his heart Sparkle."

Jumba ignored her and continued to stare at Lilo. "I'm sorry little girl, but 626 is coming with me. After all, I created him and this world is not fit for him. He needs a place where he can destroy constantly." Jumba explained as he pointed at Stitch. "Hand him over."

"No! He's my dog and part of my Ohana!"

"Ohana?" Trixie asked, confused at the word.

"I'll explain later." Twilight said before turning to Jumba. "Say, why can't Stitch stay with her? If you created him, why is he here?"

"Simple. Stupid intergalactic counsel captured him and sentenced him to be banished to a desert asteroid. Therefore, I'm going to make sure he goes somewhere where he can truly be himself."

"You mean somewhere where he can destroy everything." an one-eyed individual commented as he approached the group, causing Jumba to glare at him.

"Be quiet you!" Jumba barked while Twilight and the others just stared at the newcomer.

"Is that a cyclops?" Trixie whispered to Twilight. "Trixie thought those mystical creatures were supposed to be giants."

"I agree. I've read a few myths about them but...I'm guessing he's an alien like the four-eyed guy." As Jumba and the other argued, Twilight did a slight cough, catching their attention. "Ahem. Hi there. I'm Twilight and this is Trixie. Who are you?"

"Ah! Sorry about that, I'm Peakley." he replied as he did a slight bow. "Nice to meet you. I'm a galatic officer that is currently stuck with the psychotic criminal to catch that monster behind you."

"Hey! He's not a monster! He's Stitch!" Lilo yelled again as she tried to carry the still knocked out dog away.

"I told you little girl! He is Experiment 626 and he's-"

"Oh, would you just shut up?!" Trixie interrupted, causing the two aliens to respect her command. "Trixie demands a full explanation of everything and then we can argue where the dog goes."

Following a facepalm from Twilight, Jumba and Peakley explained that they were aliens tasked with capturing Stitch. They were sent by the intergalactic counsel on the promise that Jumba would be freed of his crimes if he brought in his experiment he created. As they talked this over, Twilight and Trixie began to notice something was missing.

"Say Sparkle, um...where's Sentry? Shouldn't he have been back by now?"

"Not sure." Twilight glanced around, biting her lip. "Him and Spike are late. I sent that blizzard spell upward as a flare earlier and he still didn't come." She then turned back to Jumba. "Sorry about that Jumba. You said someone informed you that I would come?"

"Yes." Jumba nodded. "It was a strange fellow by the name of Party Favor. He was there before 626 escaped his capture. Apparently, he was working closely with Grand Councilwoman."

Twilight looked at Trixie who just shrugged. "Trixie doesn't know him. But, Trixie can give you one guess as to what he is."

Recognizing that the name sounded very Equestrian, Twilight nodded. "Sounds like the pawn to me."

"Trixie agrees. Trixie thinks we need to get Sentry here, Trixie expects this 'Party Favor' will come here soon."

Meanwhile...

"Hmm...I don't know Spike." Flash said as poked his head out of the bush. He and his moogle pal had been following the bullies from earlier. He had saw them from afar just a few minutes ago, the main bully complaining about her tricycle being stolen by Stitch. Since he knew that they at least knew the girl from earlier, he decided to tail them for information. However, all he ended up hearing was complainants, which distracted him from Twilight's make-shift flare.

"Boring kupo."

"Yeah, I'm starting to see your point buddy." Flash groaned as he sat back down in the bush. "Maybe this was a bad idea. I thought that girl would eventually come back to them at some point since she took the tricycle and she didn't look like a mean girl but...looks like that's not happening. I'm really not good at this, am I?"

"Don't know kupo."

"Agreed. All I want is a good fight. Forget this trying to figure stuff out...I want good old fashioned brawl." Flash grumbled as he got up and laid back on a palm tree. "Guess mom was right. The only thing I care about is fighting and I need to change that." He unsheathed his sword and stared at the shaft of the blade. "But I can't help it little buddy, I love fighting. Its the only thing I'm good at."

"Doesn't help kupo."

"Yeah, I know." Flash agreed as he glanced at the moogle. "Heh, Its funny. You can only say, what? Two words at most before saying 'kupo'? And yet, I get everything you're saying."

"Young kupo."

"No kidding. Baby moogles must be really smart then." Flash put his sword back up and began to walk away. "Come on pal, looks like we got no Heartless or Heartless summoning dog here. Let's look somewhere else."

"Okay kupo."

As they made their way back to the tropical town they had entered before, the duo suddenly heard a loud rumbling noise. His pegasus instincts kicked in, and he instantly knew the sound was from above. Looking up to the sky, Flash saw the most unusual sight. A large black-colored ship suddenly appeared above the island, heading towards the beach in a quick pursuit. Flash and Spike looked at each other with grimaces on their faces. "That's not good."

"Agreed kupo."

As they turned to chase the ship down, they noticed a large dark pool form in front of them. Eight shadow Heartless shifted out of the pool along with four coconut looking Heartless. Flash quickly grabbed his sword and shield, readying himself for a fight. "Now we're talking! Bring it on!"

Meanwhile...

Stitch had finally woken up. As the five had continued to debate what would happen with the dog, (Though Trixie mainly just wanted to beat up Jumba and leave to find the pawn) they too heard the rumbling noise from before. They all looked around, seeing a alien ship in the distance. Peakley then spoke up, panic covering his face.

"Oh no! That's Captain Gantu's ship! The council is already here!" he yelled, flailing his arms around in a panic.

"What?!" Twilight and Trixie exclaimed in unison.

"That is not good." Jumba grumbled before glancing and pointing at Lilo. "You, little girl. Hand over 626 this instant. He is mine."

"No!" She yelled as she hugged Stitch. "Stitch is part of my Ohana! He's part of my family!"

"You said that before. Is that 'Ohana' thing mean family?" Trixie asked, cocking an eyebrow. Lilo nodded as her eyes narrowed at Jumba.

"Ohana means family. That means that no one gets left behind!"

Hearing this statement, Trixie slightly stiffened, her mind thinking about her lost family. Twilight quickly noticed and nudged her. Trixie looked at Twilight in surprise, only to get a wink from Twilight before the keybearer spoke up. "I agree Lilo. In fact, why don't we let Stitch chose? After all, if he has a family now, I'll bet he wants to keep it."

"Bah!" Jumba rebuked. "626 has no concept of family. 626 is programmed only with destructive, violent instincts that I, Jumba Jookiba, could create! He has no feelings, just destructive impulses!"

"I wouldn't be so sure." Twilight replied, crossing her arms with a smirk. "Just look at him."

As the others looked at the blue dog, they saw him cling to Lilo. He hugged her tightly, causing Lilo to shine a giant grin from the sign of familial affection. Twilight and Trixie wanted to both say 'awwww' but were interrupted by several grunts and snarls from the mad scientist. Hearing this, they turned back to him with scowls on their faces.

"See? He wants to stay with her now." Twilight said, pointing at the duo. "After I freed his heart, he realized that Lilo was still there for him, even when the darkness possessed him."

"Trixie agrees." Trixie continued, nodding. "Trixie was the same way. Trixie was possessed by the darkness once and Trixie's friends were there when she was freed. If that dog has a friend, that's what it wants to be happy."

"I told you, 626 is not meant to be happy or have a family!" Jumba yelled, causing Stitch to snarl at him. "Don't look at me like that 626, you are mine and that is final! I created you to destroy everything!"

"Trixie suggests you shut up and-"

THUNK!

"Eek!" screamed a voice, causing them to turn around. There, they saw a giant fish alien with a small cloaked figure on his shoulder along with a large dark black ship behind them in the distance. A huge dark aura covered the alien as he let out a giant laugh.

"Aaah! Its Captain Gantu!" Peakley exclaimed, almost fainting at the sight.

"Stitch! Lilo!" Twilight yelled as a giant fish man put both of them inside a giant glass-like capsule. She and Trixie quickly summoned their weapons, causing the alien to cock his eyebrow in slight surprise. He glanced at the cloaked figure, only to receive a nod as Twilight continued to yell. "Hey! Let them go!"

"Not a chance, little one with the key! These two are mine!" Gantu bellowed as he tapped the capsule with his giant finger. Stitch and Lilo rolled around from the tap, Lilo screaming for help while Stitch kept barking at the alien. "And here I thought this little wimp was some weapon of destruction. Turns out, he's not much, eh Party Favor?"

"I agree." Party chuckled, the dark aura surrounding him growing as his shining eyes stared deeply at the new prisoners. "This was easier than I thought."

"Party Favor?" Twilight said, only for her to look at Trixie and receive a nod. The two were thinking the same thing.

"Hey! You in the black coat!" Trixie exclaimed, causing Party to turn his head at them. "Trixie's gonna guess that The Servant sent you."

"Indeed." Party Favor replied before snapping his fingers. As the noise rang out from his hand, the laughing Gantu suddenly stood straight up, his grip tightening on the capsule. Party looked back at Gantu and commanded, "Gantu, put your prisoners away on your ship. Then, destroy the keybearer!"

"Yes sir." Gantu then turned and placed the capsule onto his vessel, locking it on the back of his ship. He turned back around and pulled out his blaster on his side, his eyes looking like they were completely dead inside. "I'll destroy them all sir."

Party crossed his arms, shining a small grin as dark smoke surrounded his eyes. "Good. Let's end this now."

Meanwhile, in Equestria...

"Passengers! We are now arriving at Appleloosa!" said the intercom, causing Maud to completely awaken from her memory filled slumber. She slowly rubbed her head as her eyelids blinked several times.

"Boulder. Wake up, we're here." she said to her pet rock as she pulled him out of her pocket. "Oh. You're already awake. Good."

Stepping out of her seat, Maud slowly made her way to the train car door. Her body shifted effortlessly as the train swayed back and forth before finally coming to a stop. Letting out a tiny, almost whisper like yawn, the filly left the train. There, as she walked past the station and past the ticket booth, her eyes caught an unbelievable sight. As if a miracle had just happened, her usual blank expression changed as her eyes widened just a little bit from the shock.

Half of Appleloosa was gone.

What was once several rows of wooden buildings, all housing tons of ponies was now a half-broken wasteland. Over half of the town's buildings were nothing but ash now, just piles of black char ridden wood. It was nothing like she remembered it. She distinctly remembered the town because she went to it one summer with her mother and it was a lively cowpony town. It was a lively town, filled with friendly ponyfolk who loved apples and rejoiced in the event of spreading joy and cheer.

But that was all gone.

Instead, all that remained was a distinct half and half look of the town. On her right were the same buildings she remembered, tall, steadfast and filled with happy ponies. On the left was a burnt flat piece of waste, filled with crying ponies and puffs of smoke. The smell of sulfur was rich in the air as her nose twitched at the sight.

"Boulder, what happened here?' Maud asked her pet rock, which of course didn't respond. It didn't need to. She had seen more than enough as her widened eyes took on a different form. Her eyebrows barely slanted as she showed just a small hint of anger. "Heartless. What should we do first Boulder?"

No response.

"I agree. Let's get some information."

Quickly turning to the right side of the town, Maud walked past several buildings before seeing the one place she knew she would get the most information out of. The Saloon. Going through the flimsy doors, she walked up to the bartender and tapped her hoof on the bar. The bartender turned around, surprised at the small filly suddenly sitting there.

"Um...can ah help ya little missy?" the tender asked, his lips tapping his burly mustache. "I'm surprised a little one like yourself would come in here. The whole town being half gone after all."

"Yes. I'm looking for two individuals. One should look like a filly with purple hair and wearing an orange outfit. The other is a moogle with a blue pom-pom, blonde hair and a blue outfit."

The bartender was taken back by her no-nonsense tone. Or deadpan tone depending on who you were asking. Instead, he gulped despite being somewhat intimidated by the filly. "Uh...not sure. What's a moogle?"

"It looks like a white bipedal...kind of bear thing with tiny wings." Maud said, her tone unchanging.

"Hmm...sounds familiar. Did the thing play music?"

"Yes." she nodded.

"Then yeah, they were here two days ago." the bartender sighed as he pointed to the saloon's stage. "They performed for a day and then-"

"The Heartless attacked, didn't they?" Maud finished his statement. Sensing he didn't know what she was talking about, she began to describe what Heartless usually look like.

The bartender went wide-eyed at the explanation. His jaw dropped as he responded. "You-you're right! They disappeared after those monsters appeared! How did you-"

"Where did they go? Did they get on the train?" Maud said, her hoof hitting the bar. The bartender saw the small dent she made, surprised at her unnatural strength.

"I...I don't know. I don't think they used a train though."

"Good." Maud then hopped off the seat, quickly turning and leaving the saloon. The bartender tried to yell at her, wanting answers to her knowledge of the situation. But, she was already gone, like a puff of air vanishing in the wind. As Maud made her way to the edge of town, her eyes shifted around as she tried to find her target. There, she saw a few mountains in the distance along with what she was looking for. "Hey Boulder?"

No response.

"I'm guessing these guys will show me where they are, won't they?" she said as she looked at few Heartless wandering around in the distance. It was two air soldiers along with five shadow Heartless. "Time to go hunting Boulder."

Ohana, Part 4: You're the Devil in Disguise

View Online

After all this time I've researched the Darkness, I keep finding unique ways it can be used. It seems that not only it is used to help enhance one's lust for power or giving them power with little to no effort but...it seems as if there is another way for darkness to be used. It can summoned if you are possessed with it as well. The Darkness seems to like puppets, as I have just met one. That stallion, just what hold does the darkness have over him?

-Starswirl, Report 53

"Tell me Sugar Belle, what is your mission?"

"To spread Heartless." Sugar Belle responded in a cold, robotic tone. Her eyes were blank as dark mist surrounded them and the black cloak she was wearing. "I must spread Heartless so they may capture more hearts."

"Yes. You must." The Servant replied as the pony began clapping it's hooves. As the claps ended, a large mirror appeared in the room along with a small gummi block beside it. "And this is where you will spread the Heartless."

"Through here?"

"Yes. Beyond this mirror is a world filled with hearts." The Servant chuckled as it laid it's hoof on the side of the portal. "You see, I believe Party Favor is about to fail his mission. It seems the keybearer has grown stronger but...we have as well. We have let the keybearer gain strength over these past six months due to our busy schedules of drowning you and your so-called friends in darkness and trying to get rid of the outsiders. Thankfully, Number IX has successfully apprehended the outsiders, causing us to be able to get back on track with our plans."

"I see. Shall I go and spread the Heartless now?"

"Yes." The Servant then picked up the gummi block and gave it to the brainwashed unicorn. "One more thing Sugar Belle..." The Servant leaned into the unicorn's ear and whispered. "Remember, you only exist to distract the keybearer from Equestria. Your existence is meaningless otherwise." The Servant's hoof grabbed Sugar's neck in a vice-like grip, her mouth now choking at the pain. "Understand?"

"Yes. I-I-I have no p-p-purpose but t-t-to spread Heartless."

"Good. Now go, little tool. Bring destruction and fear where you go." The Servant pointed to the mirror and the unicorn followed. As she entered the portal, The Servant let out a cackling laugh that would make the dead shiver. "HA! Pathetic little soul. The darkness will take your heart before you can even blink. After all, a piece of trash like you is nothing compared to me."

With that, The Servant left the room, a malicious grin shining under the cowl of the pony's dark robes. The plan had worked. Now, there were only two other ponies left to brainwash.

In another part of Equestria...

Her name was Little Strongheart. She was a lean, physically well built buffalo for her age with a fluffy yellow tuft of hair on her head. She wore a headband with a jagged purple and white design with two feathers pointing out at the back of the band. Her expression was one of anger and fear mixed together as she watched five Shadow Heartless surround her, their antennas bobbing back and forth as they glared at her with cold, soulless eyes. She grit her teeth as steam blew from her nostrils.

"Come on you monsters! I'll take you all on!" she yelled, trying to be as intimidating as possible. "I don't care if you took down some of the tribe, I'll beat you all!"

With that, she charged at one of the Shadows, trying to slam down on it with both of her front hooves. As she hit the ground at full power, the Shadow merely shifted into the ground, easily avoiding her attack. "What the-" before she could say another word, another Shadow leapt into the air and struck her side, causing her to yelp in pain. She quickly tried to backpedal only for another Shadow to shift in front of her.

"Uh oh, that's not good." she said to herself as she realized that the number of Heartless had increased. She was now surrounded by fifteen Heartless, triple the number from before. Biting her lip, she started to look for an escape route, but found none. She was alone, easy food for the Heartless. Realizing she couldn't win, she closed her eyes as she saw three Heartless jump into the air, ready to strike her down. Ready to accept her fate, she whispered to herself, "I'm sorry chief. I should've listened to you and ran away with the others."

But fate was different today.

As the three Heartless unleashed their tiny claws to slash her, a barrage of rocks flew through the sky, instantly turning the trio into a dusty black mist. Strongheart gasped as she heard the noise from the rocks and opened her eyes. There, she saw a gray colored filly in a peculiar outfit, striking down Heartless with a series of rock-based attacks. Several shadows tried to attack the filly, only for the ground to shake as big rock spikes appeared under the enemies, instantly killing them. After a few seconds, every Heartless was dead.

"Wow..." Strongheart said as she watched the filly dust off the sand from the battle.

The filly then turned to Strongheart and asked her in the most deadpan tone possible, "Hello, I'm Maud Pie. Are you alright?"

Meanwhile...

"Gantu." Party Favor said in a low, cold hiss. "Destroy them."

"Yes sir." Gantu replied in a robotic voice as he pulled out his blaster. The gun was double the size of Twilight and Trixie, causing them to slightly backpedal at the towering weapon now being pointed at them. The giant adjusted his finger as he pulled the trigger, the gun instantly firing a large green energy blast. Twilight and Trixie quickly sidestepped away from the attack, just barely dodging it as the shot created a dark ashy crater in the sand.

"Holy magic! That thing's fast!" Trixie said as she spun her free hand in a circle, a dark flame quickly appearing in it. "Let's see how you like this! Dark Fira!" A large black-colored fireball flew out of her hand, striking Gantu's elbow. He let out a small cry of pain before turning and firing at Trixie again. Quickly raising her weapon up, she tried to block the incoming blast, only for the shot to knock her off her feet. "AUGH!"

"Trixie! Hang on!" Twilight yelled as she lifted her keyblade to the sky. "Cure!" A green aura of magic with small similar colored vines covered Trixie as the spell went off. As Trixie's body began to heal, Twilight noticed that Gantu was readying another round in his blaster. She then turned and aimed at Gantu's gun and screamed. "Please let this work, BLIZZARA!"

Several shards of ice flew out of the tip of the blade, quickly striking the gun. Gantu was immediately taken back as he saw his whole hand turn into a block of ice, including the gun. "What the heck?!"

"HA! How'd you like...uh-oh." Twilight tried to taunt as she saw Gantu quickly turn and raised his frozen hand up. She instantly knew what was going to happen next. He was going to try and smash her with his new frozen block hand. "AAahhhh!" she yelled as she jumped out of the way as he slammed the hand down, instantly destroying the ice.

"Don't get cocky Sparkle!" Trixie said as Gantu began to raise his hand back up. As he did, she quickly rushed at him, her blade ready in hand. Putting all her strength in her legs, she leaped into the air, striking the gun with her sword. The slash cut the gun in half, causing an explosion to follow, knocking both Gantu and Trixie back.

"Trixie!" Twilight yelled again as she ran over to her friend, quickly sending another cure spell. "Hang on, I'm coming!"

As she sprinted over, Party Favor walked over to Gantu with a scowl on his face. The giant fish alien had fallen over due to the sudden explosion, and was now not moving. Party raised his right hand as a dark aura covered it. Then, as if invisible strings were guiding his ligaments, Party snapped his fingers and said, "Gantu! Get up now! You tower over them don't you?! Destroy them with your brute strength!"

"Yes sir!" Gantu yelled as got up, his whole body almost fully covered in a messy inky black aura. "I'll tear them apart!"

Twilight looked up as she had just got Trixie to stand. Her eyes went wide as she saw the giant snort out steam as if he were a bull ready to charge at them. "Uh-oh." Gantu began stomping, causing the ground shake under the duo before beginning a full-on bull charge. Twilight's legs froze as she saw the literal giant rampaging towards them. "That's not good."

"Move Sparkle!" Trixie yelled as she pushed Twilight away. The following motion threw Trixie back right before Gantu struck them, causing him to miss and slam into a bunch of palm trees. The girls both fell over as the giant began turning around, his body unharmed from destroying the foliage. Seeing this, Trixie responded the same way Twilight had. "That's also not good."

"RRRAAAAGGGHHHH!!!" Gantu screamed as he placed both his hands over his head and began yelling to the heavens. "I'll destroy you both!"

"Good Gantu! Get more angry!" Party Favor commanded as his right hand's aura got bigger. "Destroy them now!"

Seeing this, Twilight and Trixie both looked at each other and nodded. They both got up and stood by each others side, their weapons in one hand as they pointed them at the alien. Party Favor instantly noticed the sudden light surrounding the two and glanced back at Gantu. "No! Gantu, hurry and beat them!"

"Fat chance!" Trixie yelled as she darkness covered her free hand.

"You're going to lose today. Count on it!" Twilight continued as a red flame covered her free hand.

"Today, we win!" the duo said in unison as they placed their other hands on their weapons. The two blades shined two different lights as Gantu began charging one more time. As his sprint started, the swords began to shine brighter and brighter. But the giant wasn't intimidated. Instead, he picked up the pace as he got closer and closer. Then, as the Gantu's fist began its swing, its force almost breaking the wind itself, the blades shined the most brilliant light.

"Dark Fira-"

"And Fira combine!"

"Into Double Firaga!" The two yelled in unison. A giant fireball flew out of the blades, instantly knocking Gantu right off his feet. The towering behemoth went flying into the air before making a giant crater in the sand. As he landed, the ground shook once more, but the girls knew it was fine. Gantu was now fully knocked out, his eyes showing cartoonish swirls as he laid there, his giant tongue sticking out like a limp rag. They looked at each other before high-fiving with cheeky grins on their faces.

"Not bad Sparkle."

"You too Trixie."

Twilight then cast Cure on both her and Trixie. Glad that the fight was over, Jumba and Peakley both walked up to them.

"My, that was an impressive feat. You two are quite powerful for such little girls." Jumba complimented while Peakley just nodded. "I did not expect you to beat him without at least a level six plasma rifle."

"No need. All I need is this and my friends." Twilight replied as she spun the keyblade around before resting it on her shoulder. She then glanced at Trixie, who was looking around. "Something wrong Trixie?"

"Yeah. Where did the pawn go?"

"The pawn? You mean Party Favor? I thought he was over...there..." Twilight pointed to a spot, only to see it empty. "Uh-oh."

"Yeah, Trixie agrees Sparkle. Where did he go? He didn't-" Trixie answered her own question as the four looked at Gantu's ship, only to see Party Favor standing above the capsule that Lilo and Stitch were trapped in.

"Bagha naga la toohkey!" Stitch yelled as he headbutted the capsule. "La toohkey! La toohkey!"

"Stay away from my dog!" Lilo yelled while Stitch kept barking at the cloaked human.

"Be quiet girl." Party hissed back as his hand began to be consumed with a dark aura again. "Now, hold still Experiment 626. I need you to become my pawn again." The aura began to grow as Stitch just kept barking, showing no signs of being possessed. "Come on darkness...I need you to-"

"Do nothing." said a voice behind Party Favor. Party then turned around and saw a certain blue haired boy with a moogle on his head in a tropical outfit. "Hi. I don't believe we met, I'm Flash."

POW!

With one punch, Party fell off the capsule and into the sand, completely unconscious. Flash patted his hands after that and hopped off the capsule with a big grin. "Welp, that was easy."

"Flash!" Twilight exclaimed as she and Trixie ran up to him.

"Hey girls. You all okay?"

"Yeah." Twilight nodded before looking at the knocked out Party Favor. "Good job knocking him out. Nice right hook."

"Thanks. So...is this guy the pawn?" Flash asked as he leaned down and tapped Party's cloak. "Is he from Equestria like us?"

"Trixie thinks so." Trixie grabbed the unconscious Party Favor, only for a small block to fall out of his cloak. The trio instantly recognized it as a gummi block as Twilight went down and picked it up. "Well, what'd you know? Trixie thinks we just accomplished our mission."

"I couldn't agree more Trixie." Twilight replied as she put the block up to her eye. "I believe we got what we came for."

"Good. Now we can go back to Equestria." Flash commented with a slight chuckle. "Too bad I didn't get much action here. You girls solved everything."

"Oh I wouldn't say that." said another voice. The trio turned around only to Gantu towering over them again, the dark aura surrounding his body was now even thicker. He cracked his knuckles in response. "You are all going to pay."

Back in Equestria...

"TELL ME WHAT I WANT TO KNOW!" yelled as a voice a small blaze of fire flew into a moogle bound by chains. The moogle screamed in pain as the fire singed his white fur, his blue pom-pom swaying from the blow. The voice's owner, who was a pony wearing a dark black coat, yelled once more. "TELL ME NOW!"

"Hurdy! Are you okay?!" another pony yelled who was also bound by chains. The pony then turned to the voice's owner and screamed, "YOU MONSTER! WHEN I GET OUT OF THIS, I'M GONNA-"

Smack!

A slap went across the pony's face as the voice hissed, "Be quiet you piece of garbage. I'm asking this stupid talking bear over there. I'll get to torturing you later."

"Why you little-"

"Stop it Eiko!" Hurdy yelled, his chains clanging from his struggle to get free. He turned to the voice's owner and glared. "Listen here kupo, we're never gonna help you, go it?! We of the WRO never help seekers of darkness!"

"Oh really?" the voice sneered, quickly going back to the moogle and placing it's hoof under his chin. A small hiss followed as the pony's teeth gritted. "We'll see about that. After all, thanks to you two, my fun was interrupted."

"You mean the fact that you wanted to destroy Appleloosa?"

"Yes. You interrupted me from turning that cowpony town into a burning ash heap. I so wanted to destroy that pathetic little town and you interrupted me. I hate interruptions." the voice snarled, a magic aura gripping the moogle's neck. "You will pay for what you have done. You and this 'WRO' you work for." the pony leaned over and whispered into Hurdy's ear. "I'll make sure you all burn."

"Oh really? You're gonna make us all burn in this cave you found?" Eiko chuckled, showing she had heard what the pony had said. "The only reason you beat us is because we use support classes you idiot. We're gonna get backup soon and they're gonna kick your butt."

"Tch. Is that so?" the cloaked pony remarked as it went back over to the purple haired filly, a flame blazing in the pony's hoof. "The only reason we're in this cave is because I need no interruptions to your torture session. I'm gonna make sure I squeeze every bit of information out of you and after that, you'll be nothing more than a pile of ash."

As the pony continued to mock it's two prisoners, there were several small hoofsteps at the edge of the cave. There, a small gray filly stood there, reaching into her pocket. Looking at the prize in her shirt, she said in a deadpan tone. "You think this is it?"

"Yes." said a small buffalo behind her. "All those shadows kept running back to this place. I tried to follow them and...you saw what happened."

"Good. Stay here." the gray filly replied as she looked at her hoof. "Boulder, are you ready?"

No response.

"I agree. Let's check it out."

Ohana, Epilogue: Take a Walk Down Lonely Street to Heartbreak Hotel

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Rage. It is a key element in using the Darkness. It seems this element makes any being, no matter how tainted by the Darkness they are, rise again and again. It makes them seem like an unstoppable opponent. But they're not. They only need to be beaten till their rage is extinguished. That's all it takes.

-Starswirl, Report 54

Equestria...

"TELL ME WHAT I WANT TO KNOW!" yelled the cloaked pony as another volley of flame flew right by Hurdy's head. The moogle cringed as the flames singed his cheek. The cloaked pony then grabbed Hurdy's neck with it's hoof and screamed. "TELL ME NOW!"

"I'm...not...telling...you...anything...kupo." Hurdy replied, gasping for air as the hoof kept pushing his neck.

"Then I think I'll have weird burning little white bear for dinner." the pony grinned as another flame appeared in it's hoof. "Get ready to add a few good burn marks to your face."

As the flame got closer to his face, the other prisoner kept yelling, trying to stop the cloaked pony. While this happened, Maud and Little Strongheart were hiding behind a few rocks in the cave. Seeing this, Maud turned to the buffalo. "I told you to wait outside."

"I'm not staying out there. Those monsters might appear out there and I don't stand a chance against them." she whispered back.

"Oh...good point." Maud looked back at the cloaked pony and it's prisoners and then back to Strongheart. "Actually, change of plans. Could I ask you a favor?"

"Um...sure." Strongheart replied, surprised at the sudden question despite the unchanging tone to Maud's voice. "You saved me, so I'll help you with anything."

"That pony in the black coat is probably summoning the Heartless. I need to take that pony out and save my comrades." Maud said, pointing at Eiko and Hurdy. "I need you to save those two while I'm fighting that other pony. I can't do both."

"You need me to...save them?" Strongheart replied while pointing as well.

"Yes. They're why I'm here and if I fight, I can't let that pony try to hurt my comrades while I'm fighting that pony." Maud explained, Strongheart quickly understanding her logic. "Will you do this?"

Strongheart blinked as she looked at the duo and back at the geomancer. Her eyes narrowed as she nodded. "You got it. You beat up that monster-controlling pony and I make sure that monster doesn't hurt your friends by freeing them. Got it."

"Alright, let's begin." Maud said as she put her hood on and pulled out her usual rocky partner. "Ready Boulder?"

No response.

"Understood. We'll win this no matter what."

Meanwhile...

WHAM!

That was the sound of Gantu slamming both of his fists into the ground, knocking all three heroes into air from the shockwave that followed. The trio all yelled out in pain as they landed back into sand, Trixie especially winded as she landed on top of her head.

"Trixie does not like-grk!" she squeaked as Gantu quickly grabbed her, his giant finger squeezing her with all his might. "AUGH! Let go of Trixie!"

"I'll start by getting rid of you." Gantu hissed before turning around and throwing her away like a baseball. The girl went flying down the beach, screaming all the way.

"Trixie!" Twilight yelled before Gantu turned around as the darkness covered his entire body. Then, in front of Twilight and Flash, the darkness recreated his once cut-up gun back inside his side-holster. With this, the giant pulled out the weapon and pointed it at keybearer.

"Don't move. I'll destroy you right here."

"Out of the way!" Twilight screamed as she summoned her keyblade and pointed at him. "Get out of my way right now!"

"DIE!" Gantu yelled as he triggered the gun, blasting a plasma shot at the keybearer. She quickly blocked the blast, only for her sword to be knocked away as she fell off her feet. Her body skidded down the sand as she felt the blow, knocking the wind out of her. As her head fell onto the sand, Gantu readied a second shot.

"Ohhhh...that hurt." Twilight moaned as she tried to look up, only to see Flash rush in, knocking the blaster away with his sword. As the darkened gun flew away, Gantu quickly tightened his fists, swinging both at Flash. The pegasus turned human began sidestepping, dodging each punch with ease. However, despite the fancy footwork, Flash couldn't counter back as the fists kept charging into him. Twilight on the other hand, rubbed her face as her senses started to put themselves back together. "Gotta...get it together." she moaned before her ears picked up a slight banging noise. Trying to figure out where it was coming from, she then heard a voice.

"Get us out of here! Help!" yelled the voice.

"Igga taka! Igga taka!" continued another voice, along with the sounds of scratching glass. Twilight turned around and saw Stitch scratching at the capsule, just barely making progress on the glass prison. Her mind started to grind the gears as she quickly pointed her keyblade at the capsule.

"Lilo! Stitch! Stand back now!" she commanded, causing the two to look at each other for a second before following the order. Twilight's eyes narrowed as she took a deep breath and said, "Blizzard!" A shard of ice shot out of the sword, instantly embracing the capsule in a frozen sheet. Twilight sucked in a deep breath and yelled, "Stitch! Break the capsule, now!"

"Ighba gabbataka!" the blue dog yelled as he cocked his noggin back and headbutted the capsule, instantly shattering the frozen glass. Twilight beamed a smile as Stitch hopped down with Lilo in his paws. "Ighata! Ighata!"

"Good boy Stitch!" Lilo said as she hugged her dog and then turned to Twilight. "Thank you Twilight!"

"No problem." Twilight replied as she started to get back on her feet. Seeing this, Lilo quickly ran up to her and helped her up. "Thanks."

"No problem. You helped us, and now we have to help you." Lilo replied as she and Stitch helped her up and then glanced at the battle between Gantu and Flash. Gantu's fists were like a machine gun now, a barrage of punches blasting the beach as sand kept flying into air from the blows. Flash on the other hand, was slowly getting backed into a corner as Gantu's fist knocked his sword away and all Flash had left was his shield. Lilo turned back to Twilight and asked, "Is that big dummy gonna try to take Stitch away?"

"Yeah...I think so." Twilight barely said. "That Peakley guy said that this 'Gantu' is some captain that wants him back."

"Grrr...I won't let them." Lilo growled before pointing at Gantu. "I'll help Twilight Stitch, you go get that big dummy!"

"Ighba!" Stitch nodded before curling up into a ball and began rolling towards the enemy. At the same time, Gantu's final blow hit Flash's shield, knocking it away as Flash fell into the wet sand of the ocean.

"Augh!" Flash yelled as his back kissed the ground. "Ohhh....that's not good."

"Flash!" Twilight screamed as she tried to move, only to stumble as Lilo tried to keep her on her feet.

"Stop it Twilight, you're hurt!" Lilo said.

"But-"

"Believe in Stitch! He'll beat that big dummy!"

"I..." Twilight couldn't respond. As Lilo's words went into her ears, she instantly knew what Lilo meant. She remembered fighting Stitch, and feeling the sting of his immense strength. Seeing this, Twilight nodded and cheered, "Go Stitch! Kick his flank!"

"Igata!" Stitch yelled as he grabbed a rock on the beach and threw it at the back of Gantu's head. Feeling this, the giant turned around to see the blue ball of mischief. "Hi!"

"You..." Gantu growled, his dark aura growing even more. "Die you abomination!" Gantu's fists joined together as the alien slammed both down on the experiment. As they were just about to make contact, a resounding 'thud' could be heard as the attack suddenly stopped. "What in the-"

"ALOHA!" Stitch yelled, his claws blocking the blow and now grabbing the joined fists. Quickly spinning like a top, the blue dog spun the giant around and then threw the monstrosity right back into his ship.

"AAAAAAAAHHHHH-URGH!" Gantu yelled as his body slammed into his ship, a groan of pain following the scream. With this, the dark aura began to haze around him as his consciousness began to faze. "Oooohhhhh...have to...beat the...abomination..."

Seeing this, Twilight looked at her keyblade and saw a bit of light at the tip of the sword. She then turned at Lilo and said, "Lilo, get me close to that monster."

"Huh?"

"I've got to get rid of that dark aura around him."

"Dark aura? You mean that black foggy thing that was on Stitch earlier?"

"Yeah...get me over there." Twilight pointed at Gantu as Lilo nodded. The two then began to slowly walk over to the ship, only to feel a sudden nudge on Twilight's shoulder. Twilight turned and saw Flash standing there, his arm around Twilight as he helped her walk over there as well. "Flash! You're okay!"

"Yeah, I'm okay. Just got the wind knocked out of me. Now, you need to get the keyblade over there, right?"

"Yeah...then we can end this." Twilight groaned as the trio got her closer to the target. A few moments later, there were standing in front of the knocked out fish alien. Twilight pointed the keyblade at the target and closed her eyes. "Please let this work. Light, shine forth and free his heart from darkness!"

A beam of light soon followed as it pierced the darkness, freeing the alien from the thick, mucky aura surrounding him. A large gasp of pain released itself out of his mouth as the darkness started to disappear. Seeing this, Twilight let out a long sigh before leaning on Flash, her whole body still in pain. "We won...thank goodness."

"Yeah, no kidding." Flash groaned before pointing to the beach. "We better go check on Trixie now."

"Could you do that? I need to lay down." Twilight moaned as they hopped off the ship and back onto the beach. Lilo and Stitch also got back on the beach, which both of them were so relieved that the fight was over. Flash then put his friend on the sands, causing her to fall back on the crusty ground. "Ooohhh...that's nice. Thanks Flash."

"You gonna be okay?"

"Yeah." Twilight nodded. "Could you-"

"No problem." Flash interrupted before tapping the little creature on the top of his head. "Hey pal, could you watch over Twilight for me?"

"Sure kupo!" Spike exclaimed as he hopped down from Flash's blue hair and floated over to Twilight. "Get going kupo!"

"You got it." Flash said with a small salute before turning around. As he started to go to Trixie, he let out another sigh. "Thank the stars that's over."

Meanwhile, back in Equestria...

WHAM!

"YOU STINKING PIECE OF TRASH! HOW DARE YOU ATTACK ME!"

SMASH!

"I'LL KILL YOU, YOU BLASTED LITTLE-"

BAM!

"STOP TRYING TO PUNCH ME YOU PIECE OF-"

SLAM!

"AUGH! I'LL KILL YOU FOR THAT YOU-"

WHAM!

The following noises, sounds and yelling was Maud Pie fighting the cloaked pony. The gray earth pony was currently changed into her Monk class, causing her clothes to change into a black headband and a light blue gi covering her body instead of the geomancer coat. Her hooves were constantly swinging at the enemy, causing rock after boulder in the cave to break as the cloaked pony kept dodging at the last second.

"STOP DOING THAT YOU STINKING-"

SMASH!

"Grrr...I said stop that!" the cloaked pony yelled as a fireball appeared in it's hoof. "BURN YOU PIECE OF GARBAGE!" Maud spun in the air, quickly dodging the fireball like she was skating in mid-air. "STOP THAT! STOP DODGING MY-URK!"

The cloaked pony's rant was interrupted by one single punch to the gut. Time itself felt like it stopped as the hoof slammed into the stomach. Maud herself just glared at her opponent, her usual deadpan stare showing a slight hint of anger. A spurt of spit flew out of the pony's mouth as the hoof kept putting more and more pressure into the blow. It was only for a split second, but the sound of bones just barely cracking could be heard. What followed was the cloaked pony flying threw the air, their body smacking the wall with a loud thud.

"Augh! Son of a...you stinking...little..." the pony wheezed, clutching it's chest as the pain flew through the pony's body. "Ooohhh...that hurt."

"Give up." Maud deadpanned with just a small hint of anger. "Give up right now."

"What did you...just say?" The pony said with a slight cough.

"I said give up. Now."

Maud's usual blank stare didn't change as she stared at her opponent. The pony stared down at the ground before looking back at Maud. However, the stare was so much different. The cloaked pony's eyes were glowing a bright sickening yellow, accompanied by a malicious grin. Then, the laughing started. "Heh heh heh. Me? Give up? You piece of outsider garbage, you think you can make me give up?!"

"Yes."

An eruption of darkness surrounded the pony as a thick musty aura appeared over the cloaked pony. The pony's eyes still shined in that darkness as the pony yelled, "YOU PIECE OF FILTH! I'LL SHOW YOU TRUE FEAR! YOU WILL BURN TILL THERE IS NOTHING LEFT!" With that, the pony clapped it's hooves twice. As the sound of clapping followed, a black flame appeared before the cloaked pony as a long rapier was summoned inside the fire. The pony quickly stuck it's hoof inside the handle of the rapier. The rapier was silver colored from tip to the bottom, even it's handle. The inside of the shaft began glowing an orange-reddish shine, the colors of brilliant blazing flame. With this, the pony swung the blade into an offensive stance. "My blade of flames shall cut you into pieces!"

Maud tightened her hooves as she readied herself for the fight. As she was about to speak up, another voice interrupted her. "Oh really? That sounds like the barking of a loser to me." said a certain purple haired pony in an orange garb as she walked right up to Maud.

"What the-how did you get free?! Those shackles were filled with darkness!" the cloaked pony barked as the moogle and Strongheart also stood by Maud.

"Simple." Eiko replied as she pointed to a small pouch in her shirt. A tiny baby moogle with a yellow-colored pom-pom poked it's head out. "Mog here gave the buffalo some light magic. You may have sealed away me and Hurdy's magic, but not Mog's."

"You stinking little-"

"Oh stop it." Strongheart interrupted while gritting her teeth. "Let's just get to the part where we beat you up and go home cuz you're nothing but a stupid monster."

"Oh really?" the cloaked pony growled as the rapier in it's hoof began to rattle. The pony's hoof vibrated as the pony pointed the tip of the blade at the others. "If that's the case, I think I'll start by slicing your head off buffalo. And when I'm done..." A small, fiendish hiss came out of the pony's mouth. "I'll make sure all of you and Appaloosa burns to the ground."

Meanwhile...

Trixie had been found completely knocked out on the beach. Her body was firmly ingrained into the sand while her back was still in somewhat aching pain. Thanks to Twilight's magic coming back, she healed Trixie along with her friends before finally grouping up with their new companions, Lilo and Stitch. Jumba and Peakley had also joined them as they stood by the downed ship with an unconscious Gantu still laying on top of it.

"So, you're leaving?" Lilo asked as Twilight an her friends all nodded in unison. In response, her head drooped down. "Oh...that stinks. I just met you all."

"Yeah...sorry Lilo." Twilight replied as she scratched the side of her head. "I hate to say it, but we accomplished what we needed to do here. Sorry, but we have to move on now. Besides..." Twilight pointed to a laying Party Favor who was still knocked out despite Gantu waking up before him. They weren't sure why, but the poor soul wouldn't wake up. "We need to take him back to where we came from."

"Okay."

"Ighba." Stitch added, his ears dropping down.

Twilight then walked up and tapped Lilo on the shoulder, a nice fine smile gracing her face. "Cheer up Lilo, we can always come back here."

"Really?" Lilo lit up, hearing that.

"Uh-huh." Twilight nodded before her friends did as well. "We all will."

"Trixie wouldn't mind coming back. Trixie has started to find this beach...enjoyable." Trixie said with a slight sniff. "Trixie could see herself coming here for vacation."

"Agreed. Its not a bad little place." Flash remarked, putting his hands behind his head. "Though I doubt I can find a good fight out here."

"You're all about fighting, aren't you?" Trixie scoffed back. "What a meathead."

"Eh, its who I am." Flash shrugged, only for Spike to imitate him.

"Whatever kupo."

"Anyways!" Twilight spoke up, looking back at Lilo. "We gotta get going Lilo. Are you and Stitch going to be okay?"

"We will." Lilo replied as she hugged her blue dog. "We're Ohana after all!"

"Yeah! Ohana!" Stitch barked, hugging her back. Seeing this, a slight groan could be heard behind them. They all looked up to see Jumba with a disapproving look on his face.

"Ugh...I guess that's that." Jumba said as he shook his head in disarray. "It seems 626 wishes to stay here."

"Um...if that's true, what do we tell the galactic council?!" Peakley whimpered, "I mean, they'll tear us apart if we don't bring him back!"

"It'll be fine Peakley. 626 has found his place. Too bad it is not somewhere where he can go wild and destroy things." Jumba huffed before glaring at Twilight. "But, I won't stop him. I can see he's happy here. To that, I thank you litt-er...Twilight Sparkle."

"Um...sure." Twilight replied before tilting her head. "But why are you thanking me?"

"You got rid of that dark thing that that Party Favor fellow was trying to control 626 with. That and got rid of the one on me." Jumba scratched the back of his head at that thought. "Heh, how embarrassing..."

"No problem. I'm happy that I could help." Twilight crossed her arms with a big smile. "Just don't try to stop Stitch from being happy again, okay?"

"Understood." Jumba nodded before Stitch walked up to Twilight, his eyes wide while looking at the keybearer.

"Hmm? What's wrong Stitch?" Twilight asked as Stitch reached out his paw. Seeing this, Twilight shook his paw with a grin. As they did, a bright light shined between the two. A few seconds later, the light faded and the two just stood there, confused.

"What was that?" Flash asked.

"No idea." Twilight replied as she looked at her hand. "Strange..." As she said that, her keyblade suddenly appeared in her hand. Letting out a small gasp, she noticed that the keyblade looked slightly different. The tip was shining a small light. "Huh? What's this?" Her hand slightly jerked before suddenly pointing the keyblade at Stitch. "Wait a minute, what is-" The light from the blade shined a bit brighter before Stitch began glowing as well. When this happened, Twilight clutched her head with her other hand as she felt a flood of information enter her brain. "Whoa..."

A minute or so later, the light stopped and the two shook their heads in unison. As the others just watched in confusion, Twilight and Stitch stared at each other with smiles on their faces. "Say, did you understand that Stitch?"

"Gaba!" Stitch nodded.

"Good. Whew, what a headache..." Twilight replied while rubbing her head. "That was a rush."

"Um...explain Sparkle." Trixie demanded, grabbing Twilight's collar. "What was that?!"

"I think...I learned a new spell for my keyblade." Twilight replied as she desummoned her keyblade and winked at Stitch. "Don't you agree Stitch?"

"Gaba ighba!" Stitch cheered, nodding in approval.

"A new spell?"

"Yeah...just something me and Stitch can only do." Twilight grinned as she patted Stitch on the head. "I'll show you later. Let's head back, shall we?"

As her friends nodded in agreement, Lilo walked up and hugged Twilight. "Come back sometime! Promise me, okay?"

"Of course." Twilight hugged her back. "I promise."

Equestria...

Celestia sat on her throne, sipping a small of Prench wine. She had felt a bit off today, and needed an extra kick for the day. However, her session of calming herself would soon be interrupted by the tapping of hooves in the hallway beyond the throne room. There, Shining Armor appeared and bowed before her.

"Your majesty, I have a report for you."

"Rise and give me your report Shining Armor."

"The mirror my sis-er, your protégé went into is no longer showing signs of the dark aura that was surrounding it before." He said as he slowly got up. His tone lowered as he spoke his next words. "However, something else happened right before this."

"What happened?"

"Um...another mirror starting showing signs of a dark aura." He admitted with a grimace. "I'm sorry your majesty, its exactly as you predicted. I know you wanted it to be wrong but-"

"Its fine Shining Armor." Celestia replied as she ascended from her throne. "I had a feeling this was going to happen." She then walked up to the soldier and patted his shoulder. "I'm going to Starswirl's lab to see this for myself. Could you tell Princess Cadance what has happened?"

"Of course your majesty." Shining bowed again. "I will do this at once."

"Good." Celestia watched Shining leave the room. As he did, she let out a long sigh as she proceeded to her destination. I have a bad feeling about this...and I already did before my protégé returned to Canterlot.

Intermission: A Passing Night

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Time and space have no effect in terms of the Light or Darkness. This holds the same to the stars in the sky and the worlds beyond them. Even though I know that they exist, I can't help but think that there's not enough time for me to discover everything. Knowledge is something that must be treasured, and it has to be treasured for an entire lifetime. Perhaps my life means nothing in this cogwheel of time, but I will change things. As I said in my last report, I will find the keybearer and I will help them. I will do everything in my power to keep the Light alive. If I need to keep researching, I shall. If I must go beyond all Light and Darkness, I shall. That alone is all that is necessary. I know that Clover may disagree with this, but I do not care. I will do all that I can.

Though...I wish Clover would see it my way over all of this. Instead, she keeps telling me to stay away from both Light and Darkness. Perhaps there's something else there. Either way, as I said in that last report, I will find the keybearer and help protect the Light.

-Starswirl, Report 13

Equestria...

"Burn."

A volley of fireballs flew out of the cloaked pony's rapier as it swung a horizontal swipe. As the attack began to hit Maud and her companions, her clothes changed into her geomancer's outfit. With this on, Maud slammed the ground with her hooves, instantly summoning a wall of stone to block the flames. As the fireballs blasted the rocks, a small layer of ash flew over the shaky barrier, causing Little Strongheart to backpedal.

"Oh yeah...I'm so not equipped for this." she muttered to herself, making Eiko turn around.

"Its okay, just find a place to take cover! Let us handle this!" Eiko commanded, causing the buffalo to nod. Strongheart then turned around and ran to the other side of the cave, making Eiko turn back around to her opponent. She tapped Maud's shoulder as a small light appeared around her hoof. "You! You're WRO, aren't you geomancer?"

"I am." Maud deadpanned as she glanced at Eiko and Hurdy, ignoring the sound of a second barrage of fire attacking the wall. "Why?"

"We're going to help you fight that monster. Protect!" Eiko replied as she spun her hoof in a circle, causing a small light to cover Maud. "I hate to say it, but me and Hurdy are support classes. You'll have to handle the beating and punching. That or give me time to summon something."

"No worries." Maud shook her head, her expression still not changing. "Just do what you can."

"Thanks." Hurdy spoke up before pointing to Maud's belt. "Say, could you give me one of your spare geomancer bells? That pony broke my flute and I need an instrument. Though I've never used a bell before, but I can't complain right now..."

"Sure." Maud unhooked one and gave it to the moogle.

Hurdy snapped his fingers and tapped the bell twice. A small 'ding' came out, causing him to give a slightly perplexed expression. "Hmm...okay. This could work."

"DON'T IGNORE ME!" yelled the cloaked pony as another barrage of fireballs hit the barrier, shattering the stones into ash. "YOU STINKING PIECES OF-WHOA!" The cloaked pony panicked as Maud's outfit changed again, switching to her monk outfit and swinging another boulder-shattering punch. Maud quickly swung two more times, barely missing her opponent. "Blasted worm! Stop trying to hit me!"

"No."

With that one word, Maud continued to throw punches. Her hooves swung around, smashing parts of the cave as the cloaked pony kept barely dodging at the last second. As the opponent kept yelling vulgarities at Maud while dodging, Eiko blinked at the fight and turned to Hurdy. "Hey, should I cast haste?"

"No." Hurdy shook his head as he tapped the bell a few times. "I think I've got this down pat. I'm not used to using this type of instrument, but I believe I can do the one song that will truly help our WRO friend there." After saying that, Hurdy snapped his fingers before clicking the bell three times. "Confuse and knock my enemies off balance...Alluring Air!"

A series of notes began to flow from the bell, its sounds quickly covering the cave. Eiko just stood still like a statue, watching the display as Hurdy closed his eyes, his fingers still touching the sides of the bell. The music entranced the rock surrounded area as the rhythm of sounds embraced everypony in the cave. Eiko didn't feel a thing, but she knew it wouldn't. The music would only affect the enemy, which she turned and looked at. The cloaked pony was still sidestepping, dodging another blow while adjusting the blade in it's hoof. As it did, the pony suddenly grabbed it's face, groaning. "What is...what's going on?"

"You're about to lose slimeball." Eiko barked, causing the cloaked pony to turn and look at her. Maud had stopped her assault as her ears had picked up the music. She glanced at Hurdy, watching him as he was now in a music making trance. Eiko on the other hoof, continued to bark at the cloaked pony. "You may have caught us off guard last time, but this time you're done. You'll see what our abilities can truly do."

"What is...what the..." the cloaked pony groaned, now stumbling around as their eyes began to widen. The pony's pupils began to dilate and their vision started to waver. "Why are there...when did you multiply?!" it yelled as it now saw three Maud Pies instead of one. This statement alone confirmed the confusion from the song worked. "What is...what's going on?!"

"You lose." Maud said, cricking her neck.

Seeing this, though the cloaked pony saw three Maud's cricking their necks, they quickly backpedaled. Their rapier began to glow as they stared at the approaching Mauds. The pony knew what a blow from Maud felt like, and with the confusion disturbing their senses, they felt they had no choice. "Grrr...don't mock me! DIE!" The cloaked pony swung the rapier around like a madpony, swinging everywhere as fireballs scattered throughout the room. "DIE! DIE! DIE! I'll hit you with my fire! I know I will!"

Despite their efforts, Maud dodged like nopony's business. Each sphere of flames flew past her, not even grazing her gray coat. As the flames sputtered around, the cloaked pony let out one more yell. "ARGH! YOU STINKING PIECE OF-urk!" A volley of spit went out of the pony's mouth as they felt the blow in their stomach. Maud had punched her in the same spot, and the pain was twice as much this time. With this, the pony fell to their knees, their body shivering like a leaf. The rapier that was securely held in it's hoof fell to the ground, clanging as it tapped the surface before disappearing in a puff of flames. "Ooooohhhh..."

"Give up?"

A low growl could be heard from the cloaked pony before they looked up, showing a pair of glowing eyes as the pony barely lifted their hooves up. With two small hoofclaps, a dark shadowy portal appeared around the cloaked pony as it hissed. "Never. I'll never give up. Your head will be mine one day, you outsider trash. I'll kill you all. Count on it."

With that, the portal disappeared as it devoured the cloaked pony. Maud just stood there, blinking at the sight before turning to the other WRO agents. "Are you all okay?"

"Yes." they both nodded. "Thank you. You saved us both."

"Just doing my job." Maud then pulled out a small rock from her shirt. "Right Boulder?"

No response.

"I agree."

As Maud put Boulder pack into her shirt, the trio heard the hoofsteps of another walking back into the cave. It was Little Strongheart, who spoke up, asking, "Um...did you all win?"

"Yes."

"Really?" the buffalo said, trotting up to them as she looked around, seeing the scorch marks covering the cave. "Wow...its really over."

"Not quite. The blasted summoner got away." Eiko grumbled as she patted her clothes of ashes. "But we're alive, and that's more than enough for me."

"I agree kupo." Hurdy continued as he gave Maud back her bell. "Thank you for letting me use this."

"No problem." Maud put the bell up before looking at Strongheart. "Oh, thank you for freeing them. I couldn't have done it without you."

"Its cool." Strongheart shrugged, slightly blushing. "I owed you for saving me after all. Though uh...how did that pony get away? This cave's a dead end."

"They used the darkness to make a portal to escape." Eiko replied as she glared at the spot the cloaked pony once was. "I wonder where that monster went..."

Meanwhile...

"AAAAUUUGH!" the cloaked pony yelled as it's body flopped out of the portal of darkness. Another scream of pain could be heard as the pony wriggled around, trying to scramble back up from the injuries Maud had just given the pony. "Stinking...little...piece...of..."

"My my my, angry much?" said a voice, causing the cloaked pony look up, only to see a similar cloak.

"The Servant..." the pony panted, slightly stumbling on it's hooves before lifting itself completely up. "I-"

"Be silent." hissed The Servant, causing the cloaked pony to stiffen. As it did, The Servant bent down and whispered into it's ear. "You failed, Number IX."

"I-"

"Nope." The Servant flashed it's hoof, causing Number IX to zip it's lips. "Don't want to hear it. Instead, you are going to be given a new mission, effective immediately."

"New mission? But what about-"

"Your old teacher already knows about Appleloosa. Turns out, only destroying half a town and it's residents doesn't exactly shut everyone up." The Servant hissed as it's hoof grabbed Number IX's neck, strangling the pony. "The good thing is, we got plenty of new Heartless from that raid. Though its a small amount, it will help in the long run. Now...who are our mystery invaders from off-world?"

"They call themselves the WRO." The Number IX replied as The Servant let go of it's neck. "I couldn't get any more information than that, they're really loyal."

"I see. That's fine. We have a name, that's more than enough for now."

"So uh...what's the new mission?" Number IX hesitantly asked, knowing it wouldn't get time to rest.

"Oh, nothing much. You just need to retrieve Numbers VI, VII, and VIII. They've decided to...leave us, and we need them back."

"They got away?" Number IX gasped, surprised that anypony could get away from The Servant.

"Yes. And you will retrieve them or I'll have your head on a plate." The Servant then leaned down again, glaring at Number IX with cold, soulless eyes. "Do I make myself clear, Sunset Shimmer?"

Meanwhile, on another world...

"Alright, I'm summoning the portal." Twilight said as she pulled out the gummi block from her saddlebag. "Everypony ready?"

"Trixie is ready."

"Kupo."

"You bet. Just have to...ugh." Flash mumbled as he adjusted Party Favor over his shoulder. Party was still knocked out and Flash was having a slightly rough time carrying him. "Little help?"

"Just a minute." Twilight replied as she pointed her keyblade to the sky as she placed the gummi block on the ground. Imitating a certain procedure Cadance taught her before coming to Lilo and Stitch's world, a familiar mirror portal appeared before the four a second later. "There we go. Alrighty, give me a second and I'll help you Flash."

"Good. The guy's a bit heavy." Twilight handed her bag to Trixie, who was already holding Flash's things as well. Trixie entered the portal along with Spike as Twilight grabbed part of Party Favor. "Thanks Twilight." Flash said as he adjusted himself.

"No problem." Twilight responded as the two prepared themselves for the hop into the portal. "Let's just hope the trip back isn't too nauseous."

"Agreed."

One vomit-inducing portal trip later...

"Ugh...nevermind." Twilight groaned as she and Flash fell to the floor as they popped out of the portal. Party Favor quickly fell off of them as his unconscious body slid on the solid floor.

"Oh my!" said a certain familiar voice. Twilight looked up to see the voice's owner, only to a see white alicorn who was covering her mouth with her hoof. "Are you two okay?"

"Princess!" Twilight exclaimed as she scrambled to get up, blushing as embarrassment flooded her face from laying on the floor in front of her mentor. The filly then ran up and hugged Celestia's leg, causing Trixie to giggle at the sight. Trixie had already been greeted by Celestia, along with Spike.

"Why hello there my protégé. Are you alright?" Celestia chuckled as she hugged her back.

"Yes!" Twilight cheered as finished the hug, a big smile on her face. "I'm so glad I got to see you this time!"

"I am too, my faithful student." Celestia replied as she patted her head. "I'm glad to see you're alright. And I can see that you've changed a bit."

"I have?"

"Oh yes, you've grown some since I last saw you, haven't you?"

"Um...yeah." Twilight blushed at this, scratching the side of her head. "I've been gone for six months after all."

"Indeed." Celestia then blinked as she looked at the pony behind Twilight. "Oh, hello there. Its been a while, hasn't it Flash Sentry?"

"Yes your majesty." Flash bowed down at once, causing Celestia to giggle.

"My my, looks like you've changed as well." Celestia remarked as Twilight tilted her head in confusion.

"Huh? You two know each other?"

"Yeah." Flash slightly nodded. "Princess Celestia transferred me to my mother Radiant Hope, remember?"

"Oh yeah...I forgot about that. Sorry." Twilight commented as she looked back at Celestia. "So...why are you able to see us this time princess? Are you not busy? And where's my brother and Cadance?"

"No. I'm never 'not busy' my protégé, but that doesn't mean I can't come and see you anyways. Also, Shining Armor and Cadance have retired for the day." Celestia remarked as she walked up to the now knocked out Party Favor. "Who is this?"

"Um...we don't know." Twilight said as she gave a small frown. "All we know is that he was the...puppet The Servant was using. He had a gummi block on him."

"I see." Celestia's horn began to glow as a magic aura covered the poor colt's body. After a few seconds of scanning the broken puppet, Celestia let out a sigh. "This poor soul...how sad."

"What's wrong?" Twilight asked as she walked up, staring at the still unconscious pony.

"The pony's heart is shrouded in darkness. He won't be able to wake up through normal means." Celestia responded as she rubbed her chin. "Hmm...and you said he had a gummi block on him?"

"Yeah." Trixie said, entering the conversation. "Trixie knows the technique he was using to summon Heartless on that world we were in. It was similar to the one Trixie was taught to use to summon Heartless."

"That's...discouraging." Celestia muttered as she looked him over again. "You poor soul. I can just tell by the darkness inside you that this was not your choice. How sad."

"We should take him to mother." Flash remarked, causing the others to look at him. "She'd know how to wake him up."

"Hmmm...you have a point young Sentry." Celestia nodded. "Radiant Hope is a master of that field, being a former keymaster and all." Celestia looked back at Party one more time. "I'll arrange a private group of guards to escort him there."

"Huh? Why? Shouldn't we take him princess?"

"No Twilight. I need you here." Celestia replied with a slight glare. "I know you probably wish to complete your training, but-"

"Let Trixie guess, The Servant has already sent another pawn to another world. Is Trixie right?" Trixie grimaced, staring at the other three mirror portals in the room. "After all, Trixie was told last time that all of these are different world portals."

"Oh no, you can't be serious Trixie!" Twilight gasped, gulping at hearing that she would have to immediately go into another world. "We just got back to Canterlot!"

"Hold on there, my faithful student." Celestia said, putting her hoof in front of the unicorn filly. "Don't start panicking."

"Um...okay?"

Celestia then walked in front of all of them, letting out a small 'ahem' before speaking up, "Listen up you four." Celestia pointed at three foals and the moogle. "It is true that one of the portals was recently activated and we believe The Servant sent somepony..." Celestia paused as she saw three of the faces slightly blanch. "But you're not leaving for that world just yet."

"We're not?" Twilight asked, tilting her head in confusion. "Isn't it our job to go and find that pony that's being used and save them? And, destroy the Heartless of course..."

"It is." Celestia nodded before stretching her wings. "But you're also fillies...and a colt. You need rest."

Trixie shook her head in response. "You can't be serious. The Servant will have that pawn attack whatever that world is as soon as they enter it. Trixie knows it from experience!"

"I know. But that doesn't mean you have the ability to just keep going into one dangerous situation and into another. Tell me Trixie Lulamoon, are you in your best condition right now?"

"Trixie is..." the blue filly felt the slight bruises on her back, making her frown. "You're right. Trixie is tired."

"And I'm guessing the rest of you are also tired?" the others nodded. "If that's the case, its time for you all to go to bed. Don't worry about that world, its citizens have the ability to fend for themselves, trust me."

Twilight glanced at the mirror and back at Celestia. "You've been in there before?"

"No. But I've read the...reports Starswirl wrote about these portals. He knew that he did not have the ability to fully interfere or even traverse all these portals he created, but he knew the keybearer had the ability too. At the same time, every world he was able to study did have a way to defend itself, no matter how advanced or non-advanced they were."

"Huh...interesting." Twilight rubbed her chin before looking at Flash. "I'm guessing me and Trixie are going to stay in our old rooms, right?"

"Yes."

"Where's Flash going to stay?" Twilight asked, pointing at the colt.

Celestia chuckled at the question before turning around. "You don't need to ask that my student, I can easily arrange a room for him."

"Thank you." Flash said, bowing.

"Don't thank me little pony." Celestia shook her head. "You have helped my student plenty, giving you a room is nothing compared to that. Also, I'm going to call for some guards to pick up this...poor pony here." she grimaced, looking at Party Favor one more time. "I'll see to it that he gets sent to Radiant Hope as soon as possible."

"Okay." Twilight nodded before looking back at the mirror that had been activated earlier. "I hope whoever is in that world is okay."

The next day...

Meanwhile, in a certain room...

A volley of animals sat in a large room filled with desks. To most, it would seem to be a regular meeting room, a place where a full class of individuals could be together and collaborate. However, that was not the case today. Instead, it was filled to the brim with giant animals, most too big for their chairs as they stuffed themselves inside. The crowd debated among themselves as they waited for a certain individual.

A few minutes later, that individual arrived. The one in question was a large cape buffalo, steam blasting out of his nostrils as the room fell silent from his presence. There was a reason for this, as he was the boss around here and everyone knew not to mess with him. He glared at everyone as he walked up to the small podium. A small cough later, the buffalo began to speak.

"I suspect you all know why you're here?"

Silence filled the room as the remaining individuals just nodded their heads in response. A sitting rhinoceros spoke up with a small squeak. "Yes chief! We're here about the attacks?"

"Yes." he said as he put on a pair of glasses. He quickly pointed at a large map of a city, strings scattered all over the map. "As you all probably know, some strange and very dangerous creatures have appearing in the city recently. Specifically yesterday."

The towering buffalo then pulled out a second graph, filled with a collage of blurry photographs. The pictures depicted jet black creatures jumping around, attacking random things. A few gasps were let out as everyone looked at the images. "These...things, have been attacking every animal in sight. According to our reports, these creatures attack anything and anyone." His eyes glared at the crowd as a grim look painted itself on his face.

"According to the eye witnesses, there are few different versions of these things as well. Some are small little jet black bug creatures with glowing yellow eyes that crawl on the ground. Other's have seen them walk on two legs and make clanging noises. Also, whenever an attack happens from these monsters, the animal that is attacked disappears. We don't know why, but they do." the rest of the room did a slight cough at the thought of the vanishing animals, hoping they don't end up the same way.

"Regardless, there is one key fact in all of this." The chief then leaned over the podium, a deathly glare escaping his eyes. "It doesn't matter if it is Prey or Predator. These things attack anything."

A large round of gulps were let out inside the room. Eyes shrank as they knew he was about to rant on how they were failures against these invaders. A loud sounding thud hit his podium as he started yelling.

"I won't allow it! We are the police! Why are there a bunch of monsters attacking my city?!"

"Um-"

"Be quiet! This isn't like that blasted NightHowlers incident. Whatever these things are, I want every single officer to consider them nothing but criminals that must be arrested immediately!" He slammed his podium again. "I want all officers on this! I'm giving you your orders now! I want every single one of you to arrest these things by any means possible!"

"Sir yes sir!" Everyone yelped with a salute as the chief just snorted before beginning to giving orders. Soon, every single animal had their assignment, the whole room now knowing what they had to do. Except for two. A certain fox and rabbit. The boss looked back at a bunch of papers that were in his hands, not looking either in the eye.

"Judy. Nick."

"Yes sir?" the bunny replied, a confident smile on her face.

"I want you patrolling the main district."

The two looked at each other before Judy spoke up, "But sir, isn't that-"

The police chief flashed his hand as he continued to look at the papers. "I know what you're going to say. I know that out of all of the districts, the main one got the least amount of attacks yesterday. However..." the chief finally put the papers down, glaring at the duo as he removed his glasses. "I still need officers patrolling the main streets. Just because there are attacks all over the city, it doesn't mean the main streets are no longer under the police's control."

"Oh..." Judy said as she started to shrink into her chair.

"Also, there are probably a few witnesses in the main district that we haven't talked to over these attacks. I want more information on these things and you two are our best officers when it comes to gathering intelligence." He gave a confident smirk to the duo. "Do I make myself clear?"

The duo quickly stood up and gave a salute. "Sir yes sir!"

The two then hopped down from their seats and left the room. As they proceeded to their car, the fox spoke up. "So carrots...back into the fire, eh?"

"No kidding Nick. Have you seen the news footage over those things? Those dark black bugs will attack anything!"

"Yeah..." Nick replied as he scratched the back of his head, a yawn escaping his breath. He grabbed a set of shades and put them on, a sly grin gracing his face. "Ready to go bunny?"

"You bet, you dumb fox."

Predator and Prey, Prologue: Onward and Foward

View Online

Let it be said that patience is not a virtue. Not in any of my books it isn't. No matter how much I study, no matter how much I try, I still do not have any answers. There is no waiting for something like this. There are rogue beings of darkness out there, preying on others and yet I know nothing. I will continue to know nothing until I finally find it. I will find one that wields 'The Key'.

-Starswirl, Report 45

A few miles away from Appleloosa...

"Are you sure Little Strongheart? Have you truly thought about this decision?" asked a large, fur-filled buffalo. A loud, warm snort of air flew out of his nostrils as he leaned down and glared at her. "Well?"

"I have chief." the younger buffalo nodded before turning and pointing to three other individuals being Maud Pie, Eiko and Hurdy the moogle. Her face then showed an expression of pure determination and will. "I believe that what they're doing is something I must learn. They go out and fight those monsters and I...and I want to know how to fight them as well!"

The chief just snorted again, looking up to glare at Maud Pie. Letting out a sigh, he knew that he couldn't persuade the young buffalo. She was known for being quite stubborn and he knew that she would just sneak off anyways. Due to this, he firmly said, "Very well. I know I can't stop you." He then leaned down again, giving the young buffalo a small hug. "Just remember, you always have a place here. Never forget that."

"I know. Thank you chief." Strongheart replied as she returned the hug. A minute later, she waved goodbye to the tribe and walked up to her new friend Maud Pie. "I'm ready."

"I see." Maud said in usual deadpan tone before turning to Eiko. "Is this okay?"

"I'm cool with it. She did help save us after all." Eiko nodded as she walked up and patted Strongheart on the shoulder.

"I agree kupo." Hurdy commented as he adjusted his coat. "Don't worry Strongheart, I'm sure Reeve will accept you and help you gain the power to fight Heartless just like Maud here."

"Really?"

"Oh yes kupo." Hurdy nodded. "And don't worry, we'll take responsibility over introducing you to him. He'll understand after we tell him what happened kupo. We owe you one, after all kupo."

"Okay. Thank you."

And with that, the four began their trip back to Appleloosa. There, they would soon board the train, ready to go to their next location in Equestria. After all, Reeve had given Maud Pie two tasks. The first was to save Hurdy and Eiko, the second was to go to Canterlot.

Canterlot...

Morning broke the horizon as Celestia slowly rose the sun up into the stars, the moon quickly lowering down at the same time. On a certain balcony of the castle, Celestia stood there, her horn shining a brilliant light as she finished her morning duty. As she did, she turned to enter her bedchambers as a cup of coffee levitated in front of her. Taking a sip of the broth, she let out a small sigh as several scrolls floated around her. Starswirl...even now, every report I read holds nothing on these other worlds my protégé are going to. Why did you make those portals, only to not use or record anything about them?! I don't understand...just what was your research truly about?

Celestia scanned another report as she let out a small groan, her hooves pressing her eyes as she tried to get the sleep out of them. Oh Twilight, I hate that I did this to you. I should never made you try to summon the keyblade. she thought as she reread another report. That must have been the trigger for the Heartless, that or The Master. That monster...to think an individual like that is still around, even after all this time. Celestia then put the scrolls down and exited her room. As she did, her mind kept wondering as she made her way through her throne room. I have to talk to my protégé. I should have never let her leave without telling her everything. After all, I have a history with The Master myself, not to mention Radiant does too. Though...she probably didn't tell them about it due to...no. No need to think about that right now.

As she left the throne room, Celestia made a sharp right, proceeding down one of the main hallways of the palace. As she did, a certain voice called out, "Oh! Good morning auntie!"

Celestia blinked at the voice's owner before replying. "Ah, good morning Cadance. How are you this morning?"

"I'm fine. Just heading to breakfast, how are you?"

"I'm...okay, I guess." Celestia admitted before letting out a small yawn. "Still trying to figure out how to keep Equestria safe right now."

"I understand. Shining did tell you about Appleloosa, right?"

Celestia nodded. "Yes. I sent a group of soldiers along with some relief workers. I'm having them investigate the situation immediately."

"I had a feeling you would." Cadance slightly chuckled before walking side by side with Celestia. As she did, she looked up with an expression of worry. "Say auntie...could I ask you something?"

"Sure."

"Why are you letting Twilight do this? She's just a filly you know."

"I....I know." Celestia said with slight hesitation. "I told you before, I asked her to choose between studying and the keyblade and...she chose the keyblade. I couldn't deny her choice."

"Why not?"

"Because I could tell she would defy me no matter what if I didn't. I could tell the moment I accepted her as my protégé."

Cadance just giggled at this before nudging her aunt. "You mean, you knew you couldn't change her heart, could you?"

"Yes." Celestia smiled. "Twilight has a good heart. I knew it the moment I had my first lesson with her." Celestia then looked at Cadance with an ever-growing smile. "Do you know what she told me her dream was when I first asked her?"

"No, what is it?"

"She...hee hee..." Celestia chuckled, putting her hoof to her mouth. "She told me that she wanted to learn everything."

"Sounds like her." the foalsitter replied, shaking her head.

"Yes, but she wanted more than that."

"What do you mean?"

"She...she told me she wanted to use that knowledge to help everypony she could with it." Celestia's grin shined like the sun as she looked at Cadance with, the other alicorn giving a smile back. "Isn't that a wonderful dream?"

"Yes." Cadance nodded, "She has a magnificent heart."

"That she does." Celestia said before looking straight ahead again. "That's why she has to go on this journey. To help her make that heart grow even stronger."

Meanwhile...

Twilight and her friends were all sitting together in the castle's dining hall, all of them waiting for a delicious breakfast. Except Spike, who was still asleep in his crib, but Twilight knew he would wake up about an hour from now. Despite Radiant Hope's happy-go-lucky nature when they were training under her, the fillies and colt found themselves constantly getting up at the crack of dawn. It was only militaristic thing that Radiant would do, which Twilight constantly found strange. However, after six months of that morning routine, her biological clock had adjusted to this manner of awakening.

"So...I've never really eaten here before." Flash said as he shifted in his seat. "What's the best grub they serve?"

"I dunno." Twilight shrugged. "I always get pancakes."

"Trixie is the same. Though..." the blue filly placed her head on the table with a slight frown. "Trixie wasn't in the mood to eat most days when Trixie was here last."

"Oh...okay." Flash replied with crossed hooves. "What about Spike? Will he be okay alone while we're in here? This place is much bigger than my mom's."

"He'll be fine." Twilight said as she fiddled with her fork. "He won't wake up for another hour."

"If you say so..."

Just then, the main doors to the room opened and two alicorns entered. As they did, the trio quickly bowed before them, along with the guards. Celestia then raised her hoof, telling them to stop before she sat down at the table. "Good morning you three."

"Good morning princess." they replied in unison.

"Ah, good to see you're all in good health on this fine morning." Celestia said as she adjusted herself in her seat. "So, how are you all doing?"

"Um..." Twilight looked at her friends, who both gave nods before turning back to the princess. "We're doing fine princess."

"Good. I went ahead and talked to the chef to get us all pancakes." Celestia replied before looking at Trixie and Flash. "However, before our breakfast arrives, may I talk to you all?"

"Of course!" Twilight quickly said, glancing at Trixie and Flash. "I mean, yes princess."

"Yes, you see..." Celestia dawdled, trying to find her thoughts as she rubbed her eyes. The others just blinked at her as they watched her frustration in figuring out what she wanted to say. Finishing her eye rubbing, she stared at the others and let out a sigh.

"Auntie? Are you okay?" Cadance asked, getting up and putting her hoof on Celestia's shoulder.

"I'm okay. Thank you Cadance." Celestia replied as she tapped Cadance's hoof away with a tiny smile. She then stared at Twilight and the others and started to speak. "My little ponies, I wanted to start off by thanking you for what you did that past few days."

"Its fine princess." Twilight shook her head. "We don't mind. We agreed to go on the mission to stop the Heartless and-"

"I know you are Twilight." Celestia interrupted, "That wasn't what I was going to talk about. What I wanted to talk about was...well, its more on the fact that things may be more worse off than we thought."

"What do you mean?" Twilight tilted her head in slight confusion.

"I...Appleloosa was attacked. The Heartless tried to destroy the town." The news instantly struck the room, causing the foals to look at each other in shock. They were all unsure what to say, so Celestia continued to talk. “We believe it was The Master. Or at least one of the minions of The Master.”

“Tch. You mean The Servant.” Trixie hissed, crossing her hooves. “Sending minions is The Servant’s dirty work. Trust Trixie on that one.”

“I see...” Celestia didn’t know how to respond to that one. She knew Trixie was probably right, but she also didn’t know what to do next. Instead, she rubbed her temples before replying. “If that’s the case, could I ask you all something?” she asked, causing the others to glance back at her. They all nodded at this. “Thank you. First off, I would like to tell you that we successfully got that pony The Servant manipulated to Radiant Hope. Because of this...could I ask all of you to help the others The Servant brainwashes? If you could just bring them here, that’s more than enough.”

“Of course princess.” Twilight said as she leaned back a little in her chair. “I was planning on doing that anyways after we saved the first one.”

“Thank you Twilight.” Celestia then let out a small sigh before adjusting herself in her seat. “Now, onto what I wanted to talk about this morning when I asked all of you to be here.”

“Okay.” Twilight nodded, “What did you want to talk about princess?”

"Well...to be perfectly honest, it would be better to show you than tell you." Celestia replied, only to get more faces of confusion from the foals. It was here that the chef entered the room with a large breakfast for everypony. Seeing this, Celestia graced her usual kind smile and said, "How about we enjoy a nice breakfast first? After that, you all can join me in Starswirl's hidden lab, where I'll show you where your next world you'll need to go to?"

"Sounds good to me princess!" Twilight cheerfully replied before facing the tower of pancakes the chef had just given to her. With that, everypony dug in, letting their worries take a backseat in order to satisfy their stomachs. That is, except Celestia. Her worries floated in her head as she watched Twilight happily eat her breakfast with her friends. As they did, the alicorn could only blink at the joyful scene.

I see. she thought as she took her first bite into her breakfast. That's why you didn't tell them about your past Radiant. I can tell you haven't told Flash either. They're...they're not ready to hear such a harsh, violent tale. They're not ready to find out just what kind of monster The Master truly is. She then let out a small sigh. And if that's the case, I'll just have to watch over them and wait. That's all a pathetic, hooves completely tied ruler like myself can do.

Meanwhile...

"You rang Servant?" said a certain voice as it slowly entered the room. It was Number IX, Sunset Shimmer. She had just finished a good's night sleep, as The Servant had to repair the mirror Number VI, VII, VIII had used and broken afterword. The Servant had just finished the job and summoned for the young filly.

"Yes. Its done." The Servant grumbled as the pony tapped the portal, seeing it's hoof successfully go through like it was made of slimy, gooey liquid. "Are you ready to begin your mission?"

"Yeah sure, whatever." Sunset yawned, putting her hoof over her mouth. "Let's get this over with."

"I suggest you take this more seriously worm." The Servant growled back, glaring at the orange filly. "You are hunting three different numbers and they're your seniors. They could break you like a twig, that is, if they hadn't chosen the world they're going to."

"You mean that magicless world? Yeah yeah, I know." Sunset batted her hoof as she trotted up to the portal. "I just gotta bring those three back so you can put 'em back into those pods, right?"

"Indeed. I don't know how they escaped the frozen animated chambers they were in, but that doesn't matter now. What matters is that we need them back. Now." The Servant spat, putting it's hoof over Sunset's as it's glowed a red haze. "Do I make myself clear, Number IX?!"

"Crystal." Sunset swatted away the hoof. "Relax Servant, I'll catch those three ancient hags and bring them back, alright?"

"The numbers are all ancient, you shriveling worm." The Servant barked back. "You and Starlight are our newest recruits, and she is above being a number. You should remember that, failed keybearer."

"Yeah yeah, I know." Sunset looked back at the portal and scratched the back of her head. "Welp, here goes!"

Sunset then jumped into the portal, leaving The Servant to just stare at the now repaired mirror. As the pony of darkness just watched the mirror, a certain thought rambled in The Servant's mind. Blasted insect and her disgusting attitude! Why did The Master want to recruit her, and make her a number?! Grrr...even if she does complete her mission, perhaps I can convince The Master to let me cut her head off anyways. The Servant turned around and left the room. As the pony walked down the hallways of their hideout, one more thought entered The Servant's head. But first, I must eliminate the keybearer! Twilight Sparkle must die!

A little later...

"So this is the portal?" Twilight asked as she put her hoof inside it, slightly shaking as she saw it disappear. Spike, who had now woken up, also put his paw in, only to shiver in response. Flash then walked up and tugged the moogle away from the portal.

"Yes." Celestia nodded. "Seems The Servant has sent somepony there to cause trouble. At least, that's what we believe is happening. One of my guards noticed that it was showing off a distinct dark aura, confirming that somepony is interfering with that world."

"I see..." Twilight took her hoof out and looked down at it. "Huh. Guess we gotta go stop them."

"Yes, but before you go, I want to give you a small update." Celestia said as she walked over to another part of the room. There, a large door was framed on the wall with eight cube-shaped holes in the upper middle part of it. "Do you see this door?"

Twilight and her friends looked at each other and nodded to the princess. "Yeah. I didn't really notice it last time, but I was more interested in the portals back then. Cadance said it wasn't really important."

"It isn't...at least not right now." Celestia replied before her horn began to shine. Four small blocks then levitated around her, making the others blink at the sight. "Do you see what I'm currently 'holding'?"

"Those are the gummi blocks, right?" Flash remarked as he watched the princess put the blocks in. They fit perfectly.

"Indeed they are. As you see, these blocks fit perfectly. This door will only open when all eight are placed within the door." Celestia said as she then pointed to the portal. "The block that is currently activating that portal will also fit in this door."

"Really?" Twilight commented as she looked down at the gummi block in her hoof. She had just used the block to activate the portal before their conversation had started. "So...you have five blocks of the eight, princess?"

"Yes."

"Hold on." Trixie interrupted. "Trixie distinctly remembers that The Servant's minion had one of those blocks. Are you saying they have the other three?"

"I believe they do. That's how they're using these portals."

"Huh." Twilight looked back at the block again. "Is this the real reason you wanted to be on the lookout for these blocks?"

"Precisely." Celestia then tapped the door with her hoof. "You see, I've been down here hundreds to times over the centuries and I've never been able to get past this door. My only clue was the blocks, and then you all came back with that block along with that...poor manipulated pony."

Twilight and her friends knew where this was going. Nodding to each other again, Twilight shined a big goofy grin, causing Celestia to chuckle. "Don't worry princess, we'll find who The Servant sent and save them! We'll get rid of those Heartless for sure!"

"I know you will my faithful student." Celestia walked over to the portal and put her hoof on top of the 'mirror'. "Now, it is time for your next mission."

"Yes princess! We won't let you down!" Twilight and the others saluted.

Another vomit creating portal jump later...

"Ugh! That's...oh that stinks...why are these portals like that?" Flash coughed as he resisted the urge to hurl. He shook his head as he put his hand on the ground. His nerves quickly realized that he now had a 'hand' and his eyes glanced at where his hoof was supposed to be. However, this time, the hand still had fur on it. "Okay, that's weird."

"AUGH!" "OOF!" "Kupo!" yelled the others as they fell through the portal. Flash quickly looked behind himself, only to notice his three friends already trying to stabilize themselves. The pegasus then looked down at his hind legs, only to see that they hadn't changed, though he was now wearing some camo shorts and a white shirt with his cutie mark on it. He could also feel his sword and shield strapped on his back and the strap was over his shirt. Blinking at this, he got up on two feet, quickly realizing he was bipedal again.

"Great. Guess we're not allowed to be a pony when we go through the portals." Flash commented as he walked up to his friends. They looked him over and Twilight tilted her head in confusion.

"Flash? Why are standing like that? You're still a pony, you don't need to do that!" Twilight exclaimed before realizing that her hooves were now hands. "Wait a minute-" she looked down and saw she was wearing light pink t-shirt and purple-colored shorts. "I have hands and clothes again. But...why?"

"Trixie is really getting tired of these stupid roller coaster portal trips! And this is just the second trip!" Trixie interrupted as she shook her head, ascending to two feet as well. She was decked out with a light blue t-shirt and a darker blue pair of shorts. She glanced at Flash, blinking. "What the-why do you look like that Flash?"

"What do you mean?" he replied, looking down at himself. "I mean, besides the clothes that I'm suddenly wearing."

Twilight flexed her hands and stood up. Looking herself over for a second, she then spoke up, "Looks like we've become some kind of...fusion between humans and ponies. How strange." Twilight then looked at Flash, noticing something behind him. "Flash! You have your wings this time!"

Flash tapped his back before replying, "Yeah, you're right. And you two have your horns."

"We do?" Twilight touched her head and hopped in place. "We do! Oh thank goodness! I have my horn!"

"Trixie agrees." Trixie added as she lit her horn with a spark of magic. "That was the worse part of that human form."

"Yeah, and its nice to have wings again, even if its in this weird form." Flash continued as he flexed his wings up and down. "Nice. Very nice."

"Still good kupo." Spike interjected, floating in front of friends. His purple and green coat with spikes on it had transformed again. It was now purple shirt with tiny cute green pants. The others giggled at his comforting words, happy to have him along.

"Thanks Spike." Twilight said as she patted the moogle on the head. She then flicked her wrist as she closed her eyes, concentrating. A second later, her keyblade appeared in her hand. "Ah, that's good."

"Trixie agrees. The mission would be pointless if you can't summon that. Speaking of which-" Trixie raised her hand and summoned her dark blade as well. "Good. Looks like this version of Trixie's magic still works too."

"Yeah." Twilight desummoned her sword and hugged Trixie's shoulder. "Now, let's go hunt some Heartless."

"Trixie likes the sound of that."

"I'm not sure you'll like this though." Flash interjected, causing the two to look at their friend. They then noticed that he was at the end of the alleyway that the portal had spit them out on. That and they finally noticed that they were in an alleyway in the first place. Walking up to the pegasus, they glanced out of the alleyway with him, only for their eyes to go wide. "See what I mean?" Flash remarked, noticing their expressions. "I have a bad feeling about this."

"No kidding." Twilight gulped. Trixie did the same as the two looked at the sight before them. What they were seeing was almost too much for them to bear. It was a city unlike anything they had ever seen. It looked like a megalopolis on top of a megalopolis, that was how big the city looked. Not only that, they glanced down the street they were on, only to see several other animals and they were all bipedal and wearing clothes as well. The sight alone made them look at each other in complete shock. "Um...where are we?"

"Trixie thinks she knows." Trixie replied as she pointed upward. The others followed her finger, only to see a large sign on top of a skyscraper.

"Welcome to...Zootopia?!"

The Key to the Light

by KingJoltik

Early Days, Prologue: Finding the Key

Early Days, Part 1: Moving In, Moving Around

Early Days, Part 2: What is the Key?

Early Days, Part 3: The Dive to the Heart

Early Days, Part 4: The First Change

Early Days, Part 5: The Unicorn and the Bear

Early Days, Part 6: The Tree and the Pig

Early Days, Part 7: The Encounter

Early Days, Part 8: The Sparkle and the Darkness

Early Days, Part 9: Clash

Early Days, Epilogue: The Story

The Darkness Within, Prologue: The Road

The Darkness Within, Chapter 1: Radiant Hope

The Darkness Within, Chapter 2: Trials and Training

The Darkness Within, Chapter 3: Failure

The Darkness Within, Chapter 4: Help

The Darkness Within, Chapter 5: The Card of Fate

The Darkness Within, Chapter 6: Stronger Than You Seem

The Darkness Within, Chapter 7: The Great and Powerful

The Darkness Within, Epilogue: Six Months Later

Ohana, Prologue: I'm All Shook Up

Ohana, Part 1: Nothing but a Hound Dog

Ohana, Part 2: Gonna Stick Like Glue Because I'm Stuck On You

Ohana, Part 3: Come On and Do the Jailhouse Rock with Me

Ohana, Part 4: You're the Devil in Disguise

Ohana, Epilogue: Take a Walk Down Lonely Street to Heartbreak Hotel

Intermission: A Passing Night

Predator and Prey, Prologue: Onward and Foward