> Friends Today...Enemies Tomorrow
>  by JusSonic
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter 01: Chase Into Corner
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Friends Today…Enemies Tomorrow

Chapter 01: Chase Into Corner


The scene begins to open upon a dawn of a new day of what is currently going on in the Rainbow Kingdom. All of the ponies were going about their daily lives as usual with a few minor moments when some strange trouble comes to their neck of the woods. Be it from small threats to the Three Lords as long as there are some heroes to help out, the citizens feel a bit safe at least. Right now, we focus on where we find Twilight & Spike moving across the busy market streets of Ponyville in inspecting the town. Starlight Glimmer was also tagging along to help out along the way.

"This makes about the fourteenth area to check up on its currency & I think we're almost through Twilight." Starlight Glimmer stated off in looking over of how many places they check to see how things are doing.

“That's good to hear Starlight. Looks like everything seems to be another fine day going by, anything to update Spike?” Twilight spoke up to say in smiling at the peaceful look of the situation of their town.

“Nothing too unusual….last week was the issue about somethings that really was a bother.” Spike replied off to say this while recalling about the stuff they last dealt with that was a bother to many of them.

“Hugh, between dealing with Evil Spirits haunting my friends after they saw a scary movie and helping Tough with Anger-Management Classes. The week’s been pretty busy.” Twilight sighs to say this in recalling the last few things they have dealt with that were a real pain to handle.

“Tell me about it.” Spike rolled his eyes in agreeing on those topics. “So are we meeting up with the others?” He asked off in what they are gonna be doing next here now.

“You bet! For once, I like to enjoy a day to spend time with my family and friends.” Twilight smiled off to say this in feeling ready to just enjoy the day.

“Yo Twilight!” Rainbow Dash’s voice was heard before she zoom down to land in front of her pal. “Glad to see me drop in?” She asked off usual eager and bragging of being cool as can be which earn some eyeballs rolling in dealing with Rainbow’s ego.

"I think that's your usual approach." Starlight Glimmer stated about Rainbow's entrance is....the same routine approach.

“Oh, how about me popping in? Does that work?” Pinkie Pie pops in to surprise Twilight & Spike, the pink pony loves to surprise them in any way she can.

“Pinkie Pie, ye always pop in unannounced.” Applejack rolled her eyes to appear on the scene to make this quoted statement about her pony pal’s surprise entrances.

“Yes, it’s like scheduling without an appointment.” Rarity stated to also appear in mentioning how Pinkie Pie pops in at any given moment.

“Um, well…at least we’re all here now.” Fluttershy shows up herself to shyly spoke to say this in a nice way of speaking.

“Hey girls, glad to see you.” Twilight smiled off in seeing her friends were gather here. “Is Nyx off with her friends right now?” Shea asked in wondering how her daughter is doing now.

“Probably Phobos too, he likes to tag along.” Spike rolled his eyes in thinking Phobos went along with Nyx to join along with the fun.

“Well, at least my sister is with them.” Rarity proudly stated of where her sister Sweetie Belle is.

“Yep, mine too.” Applejack nodded off to agree where her sister Apple Bloom is.

“Scoots as well.” Rainbow Dash issued to say in where her number one fan Scootaloo was.

“Say, where’s Ben?” Pinkie Pie asked off in noticing that Ben Mare wasn’t with Twilight & Spike.

“Oh that’s right, where is he? I don’t see him with you?” Fluttershy asked off in not seeing where Ben is, and was curious.

“I think he and Chase were having another training session together.” Twilight stated in thinking in where he love was, training with Chase the Warrior.

“Man, ever since Chase move to stay in Ponyville, he’s been helping out to train Ben to know some ways of the warrior.” Spike rub the back of his head in knowing that Chase has been like a coach to Ben from the get-go start the day he came to town.

"But.....he's not the only one, right? Kilik, Halon Blade & a few others that are good with combat type workouts are here too." Starlight Glimmer spoke off in knowing there are other skilled fighters that use weaponry & such around, so why does Ben choose Chase out of those that are the most well-known.

"Chase was the first pony to offer to help Ben out, so he feels like the guy has different wisdom on fighting maneuvers from having traveled for so long." Twilight stated off to fill in that little extra blank space about Ben's choice in going to train with Chase.

“What do yah say about checking out their training?” Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow in thinking the girls can check out the boys.

“Spying on what the boys are doing, I don’t know if that’s very ladylike.” Rarity issued to say in thinking that behavior seem a bit sneaky in her mind.

“Ah wha’s de problem, come on, it’s not like we’ll distract them.” Applejack rolled her eyes in thinking there was no problem in doing something like that.

“Right! I wanna see how they do in their training too!” Pinkie Pie perk up in smiling at loving the idea to see how the training workout with Ben’s is going.

“Well, I am a bit curious myself.” Fluttershy meekly spoke in thinking she like to see what Ben and Chase are doing to.

“Alright girls, let’s go see how Ben & Chase are doing.” Twilight smiled a bit in deciding to go along with the idea to check up on Ben and Chase.

With that, the Mane Six, Starlight Glimmer & Spike decided that they shall go off and see just how well Ben is doing with Chase. Apparently, the two have had some time in practicing their skills and such lately…

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The scene opens up to a nice little open area outside of town in where some clashing of swords is being heard. Right now, we see Nyx, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle & Scootaloo watching from a spot nearby a tree with shade in what was going on. As it turns out, we were seeing Ben wielding the Master Sword to strike against Chase the Warrior’s sword and they were each making sharp movements, swift actions, and swordplay of trying to read each other’s moves. Chase insisted that Ben use his own abilities to give him the greater advantage while showing that though he is an Earth pony, Chase can handle it. Ben was even going for a Sword Beam of which its quickness almost cut across Chase’s mane if he didn’t dodge while the attack cut strike through a tree. Having seen how quick the attack was, Chase smiled at his opponent.

“Very well performed Ben, I see you’ve improved some of your skills.” Chase smiled in seeing how well Ben’s swordsmen skills have improved as of lately.

“I’ve had a few other training partners besides you Chase.” Ben quoted off in mentioning this factor to the guy he’s training with. “Kilik & Halon Blade have also helped me train, along with facing some enemies we came across.” Ben spoke off that he’s had lots of time to train against other skills warriors and battle against strong foes.

"You've grown stronger than before when you unite with both Wisdom and Power. Very impressive."

"Thanks. And to be honest, I actually have them before."

"What do you mean?" Chase ask Ben puzzled while arching an eyebrow at this.

"You're not gonna believe this but in the timeline I came from, I actually have three of them together. Thanks to Grimmore, Seekcurse and Amon, I lost them both." Ben remarks dryly, recalling the incident that made him lose his Triforce pieces temporarily.

"I see. So, how it goes with your adventure of finding them?"

"A Big Headache. I came across with the Mystic Councilpony of Wisdom for Element of Wisdom. And boy, that mare gives me pain of my flank especially her crazy officers and riddles. I'd never understand why mom and Aunt Luna considered her to be the best Godmother."

Chase chuckles as he spoke up, "At least, she's harmless than Nezha. That day... It was risky of you to do such a thing. You know, he's an Ultimate Mystic Pony."

"He claimed that he wants Nyx to be on his side for her Demon Power. Nerve of him, calling her a Demon! No one does that without a fight!" Ben remarks in disgust, still upset by what Nezha has dared to call his daughter.

"And you did - terribly. You even almost lose your life during the fight, if it weren't for Master Andy. You were lucky to have him - he's one of the best Martial Art Masters."

"Yeah. And I kinda surprise that he used to train Shadow Dragon."

"There's a lot of thing you don't know about. Anyway, let us see if their training can help you keep up with my own skills.” Chase made a playful smile to see if what Ben has learn can even match him.

“Bring it!” Ben smiled off to accept taking on the challenge.

Now both fighters were striking their swords against each other without a care or worry. The CMC & Phobos were watching this from the sidelines, as now the two swordsmen were clashing and trying to push the other one back. When Chase almost landed a blow, Ben magically summoned the Iron Boots, which gave him more weight than Chase to hold his Master Sword to block the attack and then throw the guy back. Chase smiled again in seeing Ben was really thinking on his feet, or hooves, but he was only getting started. And while the two ponies are striking their blades, the CMC & Phobos soon see some folks to join them, and it was none other than Twilight, Spike, Starlight Glimmer and the rest of the Mane Six gang.

“Hey mommy, come to watch daddy train too?” Nyx smiled in seeing her mother came by from when they are seeing how well Ben was facing Chase.

“Well…we came to check up on them.” Twilight shrug off her shoulders to simply say this fact of logic.

“Man, you should see them in action.” Scootaloo stated to say in how well Ben and Chase are doing.

“They’re zipping at it, all zoom-zoom!” Sweetie Belle pointed off in saying the training was going so fast, it’s hard to keep an eye on the two.

“Zipping and zooming, really now?” Rainbow Dash asked in being intrigued from having heard this all of a sudden.

“So far, Ben looks like he’s lasting a lot more better with Chase’s training.” Apple Bloom stated to say that from what the fillies are seeing, Ben is doing well to last against Chase.

“Well, if my memory is right, Chase has been around fer almost a year or a half.” Applejack held her chin in thinking how long ago it was since Chase started to live among them.

"He's been here for only that long?" Starlight Glimmer replied off in being curious, she heard Chase had recently moved in while she has only lived in the Rainbow Kingdom for like....a month or 2 or 3.

“Oh! Maybe we can throw him a party of it being his one year or half year of moving to Ponyville!” Pinkie Pie spoke off in liking the sounds of that, that they can throw a party for Chase.

“Darling, don’t forget, Chase is…well, not really into parties…even the wild one you & Cheese Sandwich threw for Rainbow.” Rarity slightly halted the idea to remind the pink pony that Chase is not much a party pony.

“I know I be shy to attend, but…even still, I like to go if my friends were involved.” Fluttershy meekly spoke with a little smile that even if she doesn’t feel well to go to parties, she’s happy to be around friends.

“Woah now! Check it out…something’s happening with Ben!” Spike yelps off to say something in seeing a light happening during the training.

“Wrusshvmm….” Just as everyone’s eyes were focus on Ben, his Triforce mark glowed, as while he was focusing, something else began to happen. “Prrussfruvhmmm…” And then suddenly, something appeared in Ben’s left hoof that he unknowingly grasp upon. It looked like a magnifier that is violet color, gold base bottom & three red spikes off the top. And the lens is crystal clear, except for what looks like a red diamond shape eye in the center, making it look like the lens is an eye. Truly, it was an unexpected to see its appearance out of nowhere.

“Hugh!” Everyone gasped in seeing Ben summon something of which they don’t know what it was. While Chase however, watched this with wide shock eyes, the new item Ben has summoned…he ‘KNOWS’ it.

"Woah, I never seen him summon THAT before!" Starlight Glimmer exclaimed in surprise in seeing something new Ben was wielding.

“Ben…what is that?” Twilight slowly asked as she & the other Mane Six gang approach to check up on Ben.

“Hugh…oh hey Twilight, were you watching?” Ben look to see that Twilight was here and smiled in seeing her from watching him and Chase train.

“Never mind that, what’s that you got?” Spike pointed off to say that Ben has something knew to be seen.

“Hugh?” Ben suddenly looked to his left hoof in finding that he was holding what seem like…an unusual magnifying glass. “Woah, I was trying to focus on getting ready to go out a bit more and…I summoned a new item…and…I know it!” Ben responded off in being surprised in what he’s summoned and he knows what it is too.

“The Lens of Truth….” Chase responded off to answer the question that was on everyone’s mind, as it’s an object he was once familiar with. “The artifact that is referred to as the ‘eye of truth’ that detects illusions & invisible objects.” He stated in what the Lens of truth can be used for as its name states.

“Right, and I’ve already had the intel thanks to the Triforce of Wisdom when it was first brought up that I did some research.” Ben nodded in what Chase’s current knowledge was true while he knew a little more. “A magical lens crafted by the Sheikah can allow one to see through any illusion, such as hidden doors, pits & other things like objects that are fake, invisible ladders, platforms, enemies & ghost. Heck, using it on the contents of any large treasure chest before opening it can allow one to avoid trapped chests.” Ben explained how much this lens could be used to help them out expose any illusions and see what’s hidden from the naked eye.

“SWEET! You unlock another object Ben!” Pinkie Pie smiled off to say in seeing that they really got lucky here.

"I have to say....this object looks like....it'll be the most useful in certain events." Starlight Glimmer stated off in feeling like this was an item that could help Ben out the most in the fields of enemy illusions & what is really there.

“I just got a great idea, close your eyes!” Rainbow Dash smiled in having come up with something and wanted Ben to partake in in.

Ben shut his eyes as Rainbow Dash quickly soars around in trying to set something up at the time while the others that didn’t shut their eyes watch. Rainbow came to Twilight, whisper for something which she poof to make and the flier soar off with it. And it wasn’t long until the daring pony was already finished.

“Okay! Open them!” Rainbow Dash called out as Ben open his eyes to look around a bit. “I hidden something around here, what did I hid?” She issued off that she wants Ben to figure out what she hid.

Ben soon held up the Lens of Truth and suddenly he was seeing through the lens that clear through things around. While the walls, the grass, the trees seem the same, when he looked near a building, a drape was seen, but it focus through to pierce the cloth to show Ben that it was a magic cloth that hidden a ladder underneath it.

“You move some magic cloth drape Twilight cast to conceal a ladder going up that building.” Ben pointed off to say this with a smile, which made Rainbow Dash gasp before flying over to remove the drape and there was a ladder she hid; Ben managed to know after she hid it when his eyes were shut.

“Oh my….it really does work.” Fluttershy responded to be surprise in seeing that Ben’s new item, the Lens of Truth, really works well.

“Wait….what about pointing’ dat thing at a pony?” Applejack asked off in thinking that new item could do something else if looking through it at a living being than an object.

“Bet he can’t tell if someone’s hiding something.” Phobos smiled off in thinking that the Lens of Truth can’t tell if they are hiding something.

Ben then used the Lens of Truth on Phobos to see if he was hiding something. The only thing the baby Moon Dragon concealed was that from his teeth, were rosy-shaped gems that were caught in between, but the lens pierce through to reveal what was hidden.

“You ate some Gem Roses today, didn’t you?” Ben spoke off plainly in having seen what Phobos was hiding…at least what was between the baby Moon Dragon’s teeth and now lies in his stomach.

“WHAT! But how…I ate that thing when some merchant said to give it as a peace token to Princess Twilight!” Phobos yelped at having heard what Ben said about what he did, that was something he hid and…that lens thing reveal the truth he hid!

“And you ate it when it was meant for her?” Spike asked off that Phobos ate something that was a gift to Twilight.

“I was hungry, okay? Like you even skip out eating a gem in front of you.” Phobos remarked off to tell the baby Dragon that even Spike would eat a tasty gem without thinking ahead.

“Oh Phobos!” Nyx rolled her eyes in seeing her pet pal was again being his silly self.

"The Lens of Truth...it really can see the truth hidden from view!" Starlight Glimmer exclaimed in being very amazed, Ben's new object found things hidden by magic & conceal that was hard to see.

“My word, that item of yours Ben, why…you could very well see the truth behind all things.” Rarity responded to say in seeing that Ben has truly, a new Item given from the Triforce to help the stallion along.

“It’s more than that Rarity.” Twilight spoke to her friend in seeing what the Lens Of Truth can really do. “Ben, the Lens of Truth can do a lot of good, it could even help us against the enemy’s tricks and illusion or even disguises.” She stated in knowing that with such a powerful item, they won’t be fooled by illusions the enemy sets up to trick them or hid any traps.

“Like Ronson when he was seen to be some honest to good Mayor of Manehattan when he was actually the King of Changelings who fooled everyone.” Ben stated in knowing that what was almost too good to be true was only a trick and illusion to fool them when in truth; Ronson was an enemy.

“Yes, an enemy among ranks that you cannot foresee or tell, because they use clever & deceitful tactics.” Chase slowly nodded in understanding that course of action, though he and Ronson are in two different leagues of how to perform such actions to fool everyone.

“So what you think of this Chase, now I got a really good item from the TriForce that can be the best of help.” Ben smiled inferring pretty good of having the Lens of Truth, with it, all illusions and tricks are useless.

“Be careful Ben, sometimes using what’s the truth to learn about something can also lead to problems if your not careful.” Chase spoke forth in wanting Ben to understand that wanting to know the truth can have some strange effects on the one who learns it. “While it’s good to use on your enemies, isn’t there some truths that your friends like better to be hidden than expose?” He used this fact to convince Ben to not use the Lens of Truth on many of who have certain secrets best kept hidden for good reason, even for Chase’s own.

“Well…I guess so, otherwise…it would be an invasion of privacy.” Ben shrug off in following that idea since if he learn something he shouldn’t, it be invading someone’s private life or hiding something for good reason.

“Good…now if you’ll excuse me, I need to go and mediate for a while. Congrats of your unlocking another ability of yours Ben Mare, use it wisely.” Chase replied off to simply say this in giving some praise to Ben on what he’s managed to achieve while preparing to leave now.

Soon Chase turns to leave at this time while leaving many to ponder his words that were said. Ben was also feeling concern as if maybe he did something wrong, this new Magic Item he unlock from the Triforce Element was amazing. But then Ben noticed that Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo were looking through the front of the lens to look out at anything when Ben lay the Lens of Truth down to their level of height.

“Hey, what are you three looking through here?” Ben raised an eyebrow in seeing the CMC were looking through his Lens of Truth to see it up close.

“Well you had the thing lowered and we took a peek.” Scootaloo spoke off in stating what they were doing while Ben was lost in thought.

“And we saw what it showed us, including towards Chase.” Sweetie Belle stated in looking at the lens to see all objects, including the direction Chase went to.

“It did? Wha…what did you see?” Spike yelped in having heard that as now everyone was curious of what truth was revealed.

“Well….nothin’ really, it seem ta show he was fine as an apple seed.” Apple Bloom shrug off to say that there didn’t seem like nothing was wrong with Chase through the Lens of Truth.

“Alright ye little ones, let’s not be nosing’ in on Chase like another Gabby Gum matter.” Applejack rolled her eyes to have the CMC settle down and not go around poking their noses to expose any secrets like another matter that happened before in the past.

“Yes, I’m certain he’s not hiding anything that he didn’t show us.” Rarity nodded off in thinking Chase wasn’t hiding anything terrible from them, it didn’t seem so?

“Well…you gotta admit one thing. We all have been curious about the guy. Like my cousin Brave Heart once said about not trusting him.” Rainbow Dash spoke up in thinking that when her cousin spoke about trust issues with Chase, it kinda started something there.

“And a few other Element Users we met and befriend said there was something about Chase that seem off.” Pinkie Pie also clued in about the matter in which many new Element Users they met think Chase seem like he was hiding something from them.

“It is strange that while Chase has help us out a lot, there seem to be others who’s sense of judgement says he’s hiding something.” Fluttershy held her chin to meekly speak up that if many who felt Chase seem suspicious to be trusted seem pretty sure of themselves.

"It is strange, why would many feel like something was off with Chase that one shouldn't trust him. I know that I came off as someone nice, but was tricking you all before....well, certain events took place." Starlight Glimmer slightly spoke off in recalling how she deceived many on the first time they met to even what she was doing behind the scenes & the last issue she cause to Twilight before it was resolved.

“Girls…maybe we shouldn’t dig too deep in this, I mean…maybe Chase is right…there are some truths we shouldn’t reveal if they may hurt another.” Twilight spoke in feeling they shouldn’t push themselves too much on the case, after all, what if the truth might hurt them, can they risk it?

“Yeah…I guess so.” Ben slowly spoke off in looking at the Lens of Truth, trying to ponder the thoughts of what he’s heard and what he heard from others in the past involving Chase. “Still…why do those with more experience & senses say they can’t trust Chase? If he was hiding something, wouldn’t the Lens of Truth reveal it? This will be a hard thing for me to understand, I’m sure.” Ben spoke in his mind in feeling that he wants to be okay in trusting Chase the Warrior and his new item seem to say the stallion was okay, but…the words of those who are good friends with him and the gang…feel like they say they should watch Chase more closely.

Suddenly, Spike burps out his flames that changed into a familiar scroll. Twilight caught the scroll to begin reading it to learn what the message was.

“What is it mommy? A message from Grandma Celestia?” Nyx asked what her mother read off the scroll that came from Princess Celestia.

“Yes, she likes us to come to Canterlot, says there’s someone she wants us to meet that’ll help in our work to protect us from our enemies.” Twilight nodded her head in stating that the message said they are to meet with Celestia at Canterlot Castle to meet someone; whoever it is must be important or something.

Lelouch was standing above the Castle of Friendship as he was looking at Ben and his friends chatting with each other. He smirked beneath his mask.

"It's almost time. Time to see if he can give in his anger and rage as I am. This would be interesting. How will he react to his so-called master?" Lelouch ask Celtic, who stood behind him in amusement.

"You enjoy torturing this boy, don't you? He reminds me of you..." Celtic ask, recalling what Ben reminds him of.

"Well, I have to be sure that he's indeed one of mine after he had failed to realize and stop me from controlling Unity to destroy everything. His greatest defeat had given him a drive and obsession in finding the Elements and be ready to defeat his enemies. If he is, then he would be one day free our master from the prison."

"Yes..."

"Let's go and watch the movie. Let's see what can he do next..." Lelouch said in amusement. Whatever happens next will be a good show to watch indeed!

The scene grows dark here as everyone gets ready to go off to Canterlot at this time. Whatever is about to go down, the gang shall surely learn in due time.

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At the time behind an alley, Tech was seen watching the Mane Six group leave in their preparation to head off to Canterlot Castle. Tech was using a cloak to be all stealthy and stuff, but as he was about to move….someone came from behind to tap him; it was Chase.

“Gaaagh!” Tech squealed a bit to turn in panic when Chase touch him. “Touch me and I’ll scream!” He stated off that if the person touches him, he’ll scream really loud.

“You just did, Tech.” Chase narrow his eyes at the idiot fool for not realizing that he already scream when he touch the mama’s colt.

“Oh, Shadow Dragon…hey, how’s it going?” Tech sigh in seeing who was here and started to realize a little.

“Apparently, something has occurred. Ben has finally unlocked the Lens of Truth.” As Chase was speaking this, he slowly transforms himself back into his true Dark Mystic self; Shadow Dragon.

“What! But-but…that means….” Tech yelps to gasp in hearing this that sounded real bad. “That means…he’ll expose you from being Chase to who you really are, as Shadow Dragon!” Tech was right, the Lens of Truth could expose Shadow Dragon’s form as Chase the Warrior and it’ll be curtains for the undercover Dark Mystic.

“You simpleton! Dark Curse gave me the Reversing Mirror to be magically conceal and to keep Ben’s Lens of Truth from seeing who I really am.” Shadow Dragon remarked off to remind Tech of what he has to counter that effect.

“Oh right, I forgot about that. Oh, by the way…there’s a message from the Three Lords.” Tech slowly was absorbing that info before also mentioning something else at the matter.

“From Lord Dark Curse and the others?” Shadow Dragon raised an eyebrow in hearing this, the Three Lords of Equestria have a message for him; what could it be?

“Yes, they want to have a chat with you to discuss what you’ve learn to figure out the location of the Mystic Shield.” Tech nodded off in stating that the discussion with the top major three villains is about the location of the Mystic Shield.

“Hmm…my scouting to narrow off where the Mystics choose to hide it has been cleared of only a few possible choices.” Shadow Dragon held his chin in stating that he’s search while he stayed in Ponyville to only know locations the Mystic Shield is NOT kept hidden in.

“Right, you’ve clear off already 90 percent of any area in all of Ponyville, so we’re almost done.” Tech nods off to say about how much searching has been done, and so far, the Mystic Shield search is down to the final 10 percent.

“Come Tech, we must go and see them.” Shadow Dragon issued that they need to go and meet up with the Three Lords about the undercover mission of his task. “I believe time is of the essence, with Ben’s Lens of Truth awakened, keeping my cover up will not last forever. I’ll need to settle the Mystic Shield’s destruction by the end of this week.” He stated in knowing that time is crucial, with the Lens of Truth brought forth, Shadow Dragon can’t perform a mere illusion of himself while being Chase the Warrior, even with the Reversing Mirror, one slip up is all it takes especially if any Mystics intervene to make things difficult.

“Whatever you say, SD!” Tech saluted to say in having heard what Shadow Dragon was telling him before being ready to go.

Soon a Corridor of Darkness opened up to which the Dark Mystics went through to be taken somewhere, likely to Shadow Dragon’s living place. As everything blurs out, more and more things grow as to what is about to happen during the coming fate of Shadow Dragon’s mission…and the truth of who Chase really is to the public’s eye.
> Chapter 02: The Ministrel Who Sings To The Red Moon
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 02: The Minstrel Who Sings To The Red Moon


Soon the scene enters to Canterlot Castle where we find the Mane Six, Ben, Starlight Glimmer the baby Dragons, even Nyx along with the CMC are approaching down the hallway to reach the Royal Sister’s throne room. Of course coming out from another hallway was some of the gang’s good pals that were also coming into the picture now: Golden Heart and friends…

“Golden Heart? You guys got invited too?” Ben asked off in seeing who else was here besides them.

“Yeah, Celestia wanted us to meet someone, says even I know him.” Golden Heart spoke off to mention this little factor of hidden mystery.

“Which will be interesting to know another friend of my brother.” Pinkamena smiled off to happily state this fact of what she’ll get out of this.

“Neat! So what’s your friend like Golden Heart?” Pinkie Pie smiled off while asking a question now.

“Pinkie, he said he doesn’t know, as in they didn’t say de name of who.” Applejack rolled her eyes to remind her random pink pal that Golden Heart doesn’t know who is waiting cause a name wasn’t mentioned.

“A mystery guest, sounds rather a dashing approach to me.” Rarity held her chin in pondering how such an approach seems very elegant.

“Yeah, real dashing.” Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes in not caring much for that stuff.

"Well, can we confirm if he's near?" Starlight Glimmer asked this off in being curious if the special guest was near or not.

“I’m scanning to detect another presence, but seem to be getting interference.” Omega stated in trying to determine who is here, but is unable to patch through it seems.

"Same here, we're close, but...nothing." Fila stated that even when close by, they are unable to determine who is nearby or how strong the character maybe.

“Perhaps he’s concealing his power or messing up your scans to throw us off in how strong he might be.” Jack Zen spoke off in making a theory suggestion of what could be said of who they’ll meet.

“Oh, do you really think the pony we’re meeting is that strong?” Fluttershy shyly asked off in becoming a bit interested to wanting to know.

“Who knows?” Autumn Gem shrug off her shoulders in not knowing the answer much herself.

“I’m just interested to meet this new face.” Sombra responded off to say this in what he’ll wanna know by meeting the character in question.

“Well, we’re about to get our chance…” Nyx smiled off to say this to the big group.

“Why?” Phobos asked off in not following what Nyx was getting to.

“Cause we’re here.” Twilight issued off to say that they reach their destination as they open the double doors before them.

Finally, everyone enters the throne room of the Royal Sisters: Princess Celestia & Princess Luna. Everyone does a little bow to show and greet one another in a sign of respect. Once that was over and done, the pleasant chatters were next on the list.

“Welcome everyone, I suspect you know why I called you here today.” Celestia spoke upon seeing those that have arrived.

“You said there was someone we could meet that wanted to help us.” Ben stated out in knowing what his mother called them for.

“Indeed nephew and he’s already here right before us.” Luna spoke off in mentioning this fact to the group.

“Where?” Spike asked off in not seeing anyone in front of the princesses.

“Before that, I must ask…son, when will you & Twilight officially be married?” Celestia suddenly asked off a bizarre question out of nowhere.

“What?” Much of the gang yelped in having heard that, where did that come from. Twilight and Ben blush in knowing that, one, though they are lovers & princess & prince to a kingdom, they aren’t married, and two, Nyx is of their blood but the two parents have yet to be wed.

“Yes nephew, you said when you grow up to be with Twilight, did you not?” Luna spoke off to mention this other matter of thought.

“But I was a colt back then, and…hey wait.” Ben was about to say this until, something strange caught his attention in what his aunt said. “This was something I once imagined you say if you…weren’t seal in the Moon, and…” Ben’s eyes widen more in realizing that he only said something like that matter in the past with only his…mother; Luna wasn’t around. “Lens of Truth!” Then as Ben summoned his magical item, he sees through the lens’ eye and then the images that were of Celestia & Luna…began to fade from picture along with those that didn’t see through the Lens of Truth.

“What happened?” Apple Bloom asked off in seeing something just happened here.

“Where did they go?” Sweetie Belle asked off in seeing the Royal Sisters vanish.

“Were they illusions?” Scootaloo questioned off in what they saw were not the real princesses.

“Yes, created from Ben Mare’s memory.” Spoke another voice in the room that had a tone of speaking…gentlemanly.

"Who's there?" Starlight Glimmer asked off in looking around, someone was playing with them, but who?

"Right....here..." The gentlemen's voice stated off to say....

Soon everyone turn to find someone was leaning against some red curtain drapes within the throne room. He appeared to be a stallion Alicorn with tan fur color coat, long & straight blonde mane that reach down below his back & tail to his ankles and dark green color slant eyes. Most of his upper face, aside from his eyes & forehead, is hidden by a dark crimson mask, somewhat like a traditional Commendia dell’arte and Carnival, circling both of his eyes & covering the upper part of his nose, which adds to his theatrical appearance. The outfit matches what maybe a flamboyant personality & demeanor as he’s wearing a dark crimson & dark tan color mix outfit, standing out of the chest is a flimsy cravat tie, wears black caviler boots in the back while he wears light tan/gray hoof glove-wear. The attire is completed by a large dark crimson hat, with a prominent brim curving upwards on the sides & golden edges, matching the vest & mask, which on its upper left side bears an extremely long, massive & spiky pink plumage, falling down the rear part of the hat & almost reaching down below his back. He is seen as a young slim stallion, seems very elegant, appears as someone from an upper class, and even with a face hidden, he appears very handsome & dashing, and no doubt he’s very strong. And on his flank was a gray symbol of a blade/pen crossing a curve ‘C’ as like a writing message as his Cutie Mark and of what its talent means to be kept to be memorized. Once more, he appeared to be casually reading a book at this time; one label ’Spells for Advance Needs’ on it. Even as this new guy was casually reading, his eyes move to see that the others were looking at him being so laid-back.

“Alright buddy, who are you and what did you do with the princesses?” Phobos snapped off in getting ready if they are about to have a fight on their hands here.

“Wait a second, I know that voice pattern….your…” Golden Heart spoke to halt everyone, and looked to the mask minstrel character with curiosity. “Rufus…Rufus Lore?” He slowly spoke in recalling the name and judging the character’s appearance, of who he might be.

“Very good. I have memory of you, Golden Heart.” The revealed pony named Rufus smiled from shut eyes before looking towards the gang with a nice smile on his face.

“Who is he?” Twilight asked Golden Heart of who this Rufus character is?

“Who is he, indeed? And why is he so….dashing, even with a mask?” Rarity asked in feeling almost about to fall over heels with a stallion that appears dashingly handsome even if he wears a mask.

“Oh boy, not another one!” Spike rolled his eyes to slap his forehead, another pretty boy is here and he’s caught Rarity’s eye.

“Well have to admit, he’s pretty dashing alright.” Pinkamena spoke off to say, which earn a record player scratching noise to make some look to the odd pink pony. “But of course, I’m in control of myself.” She quickly added that off to make sure there was no misunderstanding to the topic, especially for her brother Goldie to get concern with.

"Somehow, for those of us with lovers, it feels like if we're not careful, well...this could happen." Starlight Glimmer showed a sweat-drop in guessing that for those that are still single, meeting a mysteriously handsome stranger of noble class behind a mask; it's like out of a fantasy novel all girls go crazy over to lose their self sense.

“Um…well I have Sombra, so…” Autumn Gem spoke in trying to not be seen in feeling heatstroke in seeing Rufus, because while he was dashing in looks, the mare has Sombra, her love.

“Oh boy, Ben, we better watch the girls, he seems to make them almost fall head over heels for this guy.” Sombra rolled his eyes in telling Ben they best watch their loves closely to make sure they don’t do anything to upset their relationship.

“Right, but what I wanna know is, where are my mom and aunt?” Ben nodded a bit to the idea while getting to the topic of where Celestia & Luna are.

“Right here son.” Suddenly, Celestia & Luna appeared from behind the curtains that Rufus was near in surprising the others of their hiding spot. “Rufus wanted to test you in seeing if you could figure out the trick.” Celestia explained that Rufus wanted to see if Ben would notice a trick of something out of the ordinary.

“But we were much more surprise, you had acquired the Lens of Truth.” Luna stated in where her gaze and her sister’s saw a new item in Ben’s hold, the Lens of Truth.

“Indeed, an item used by Link, the Hero of Time. I’ll memorize that for next time.” Rufus spoke to say in shutting a book and tap his forehead with his right hoof to look and say he’ll remember that next time.

“Can some pony explain what’s going on? Just who is this Rufus guy?” Rainbow Dash asked off in feeling a bit impatient that they don’t know much of who the guy here is.

“You seem to know him Golden Heart, what can you tell us?” Jack Zen stated in seeing that if Golden Heart knows Rufus, maybe he can fill in the blanks.

“That he’s a friend and a good ally, and also…he’s an Element User…” Goldie spoke off to mention this much out that Rufus is someone that’s on their side and what makes him special is cause…he possesses an Element.

“What?” Mane Six, CMC & baby Dragons responded in shock in having heard this, another Element User. But then which element does Rufus possess that makes him somewhat special.

“Allow me to introduce myself fully, my name is Rufus Lore, nicknamed: The Minstrel Who Sings to The Red Moon.” Rufus humbly bow in a minstrel way of presenting himself to the group in being almost like someone from a high-class society, perhaps.

“Wowsers! That’s some title name!” Pinkie Pie replied off in having heard the title nickname of what many refer to Rufus.

“Wait a second, that name…I once read about a pony minstrel with a tie to a red moon, was that…you?” Twilight gasped in shock in just remembering something she read in a book once, about a minstrel & a red moon, was it possible Rufus IS that pony?

“You have a good memory and you are not mistaken.” Rufus Lore smiled to kindly state the fact that Twilight’s intelligence is very correct. “I can tell you my tale, if many are interested.” He humbly spoke inning someone to tell his tale to those that wish to hear it.

“Oh yes…please do.” Rarity spoke in feeling like being near this stallion was like a dream come true, a valiant, dashing hero, with such class, any mare couldn’t help but love a guy like that.

“But first, wha Element is it ye have?” Applejack spoke off in bringing up the bigger subject of the hour.

“If thou must know, it is from one of…The Unique Element Class.” Luna humbly spoke in mentioning what element area Rufus holds within him.

“But a uniquely Rare Element at that, the Element of Memory.” Celestia issued forth in mentioning the name of the element that is both unique, and rare at the same time.

“Memory?” The Cutie Mark Crusaders repeated in hearing that while being curious and puzzled.

“Question, how can memory even be an element?” Phobos asked off in thinking that such a thing probably isn’t much useful if one’s remembering stuff.

“Subject term for memory is listed to recall one’s past recalling moments.” Omega explained the matter of what logic the word ‘memory’ has.

"That's basically the term in describing it." Fila lightly nodded in agreement about what Omega said.

“You are not mistaken, but is that the only limit to a memory?” Rufus approached the group while issuing this thoughtful statement. “Memories are of what you recall and imagine, are they not?” He asked in speaking in riddles in what kind of power a ‘memory’ holds for a person.

"Hugh, I never really thought of it like that way." Starlight Glimmer hums to herself in having to hear that different term of a memory discussion.

“What are you getting at?” Ben raised an eyebrow in not following what Rufus was saying.

“My element allows me to memorize and to cast spells of what one remembers, be it weak or strong, or….create a whole new version of it.” Rufus explained off what extraordinary power his element is capable of doing, like learning something but add in a twist. “It grants one the power to manifest their memories of all things seen into real life.” That part caught everyone’s attention, the Memory Element can bring one’s own memory into creation. “It is an element very uniquely rare as it can use many different elemental types & spells, & even effect that which exist in reality if one ‘memorizes’ it or chooses to ‘forget’ it, it effects surroundings & to target opponents.” Rufus finished off in briefing how much his unique ability of an element can do in many ways and in many different usage.

Everyone was now speechless, so the Element of Memory could make Rufus memorize anything he’ll see and either use it or make it into his own with a new twist. It’s like saying if all the natural elements of Earth, Fire, Wind, Water, etc. were seen, he could use that many and without difficulty, that’s just so amazing to believe.

“Wow, I’m surprised I never came across you before!” Pinkamena replied off in seeing that if she met Rufus a little sooner in the past, it be great to have him as a pal.

“Quite incidentally, you might have, as I have memory of you, Pinkamena Diane Pie.” Rufus held his hat to commonly speak out in saying something about if the two did meet in the past if it happened, but he knows the pony anyway. “How you are from an Alternate Universe like this, how you obtain your Element Form, and how you were wanting to find someone who is your enemy.” Rufus spoke off in having a good memory about knowing Pinkamena and about her strives in life were to this day.

“Wow…you’re really good.” Pinkamena replied off impressed by Rufus’ memory, no wonder he’s a friend to Goldie & the Royal Sisters.

“So tell us, how did you come to be an Element User?” Nyx asked in being interested in how Rufus is what he is today.

“Please tell us!” The CMC beg out in wanting to hear the story now.

“My tale goes back to about a 1000 years ago, are you all interested or wish not to hear bore memory tales?” Rufus replied off to say this while wondering if those cannot be bored from hearing that which is likely a tale of long ago.

“Brother, you like using memory or words related in every sentence!” Phobos rolled his eyes in seeing this guy really likes to use the word ‘memory’ in some of his dialogue whenever it’s convenient.

“Ignore him, tell us the story.” Spike rolled his eyes to have Rufus ignore Phobos’s rude remarks and to continue his telling.

“Then allow me to tell the memory…of my becoming…Like the Sun & Moon that tell their tales in day and night.” Rufus spoke off while being poetic in his words of what he shall say here.

Pretty much, the guy’s epithet & flamboyant appearance and his words that only come from a calm individual, retaining a mild demeanor; enough to almost make mares fall for this guy if those that had lovers try to not fall for such things. And soon, the scene blurs out in revealing a story from one’s memory…to be told…

------------------


Within Rufus’ Past


The scene opens to show what is Rufus Lore long ago, when he was but a colt, and apparently…a unicorn? At the time, he was seen reading a book about a minstrel’s life to perform and such while looking up at the night sky to see the stars above.

“I was once a unicorn colt long ago, almost a thousand years ago who was but a simple pony that had two interest; memorizing book contents & things happening around me to be a minstrel, and looking up to read under the starry skies.” Rufus narrates off to say while his colt self was studying the ways of what it be like to be a minstrel, as he enjoyed putting everything around him into memory and to be like poetry.

Young Rufus was probably one of the very few ponies that could stay up a bit to enjoy much of Luna’s performance in making night come with the moon and show the stars. The colt did go to bed, but only after feeling tired enough to drift to sleep while looking and memorizing the stars in the skies.

“When the day came that Luna became Nightmare Moon & was banished to the moon, I felt sad to hear that, as it would be a memory stuck for me to never forget." Rufus narrates off in sounding a bit saddens about Princess Luna was banished to the Moon by Celestia, it would be a sad thing for many.

It shows what is currently going on as Celestia was now in charge of both day and night. But while Celestia brought out the night, the stars were never much the same, but she did what she could. Rufus continued to study the star patterns to compare them from when Luna made them.

“But then one year later, a strange event happened, Celestia had her sun behind the moon, creating a red moon event.” Rufus narrates off in where a red moon was brought in from what Celestia did in once doing something never before seen. “But during that moment, I had memorized star patterns, and saw a strange hidden code during the red moon that shine differently than the sun & normal moon alone.” At the moment when a red moon appeared, the star patterns seem to show a change from a red light that seem to hold…a hidden message.

As the scene shows it, the young Rufus memorized to study the star patties to understand what was found, s it read ‘He who seeks the memory, who wants to memorize all things and remember what once was or what can be. Thou must go forth where the red moon lights shower, to find the element to grant thou that knows the true worth, of the power of one’s memory.’ and that was the entire message. Young Rufus was probably the only one who figured out the message to go to the place while the red moon was still there. 

“I was intrigued by the message, it was like a code within the stars. I wanted to know more about them.” Rufus narrates off in what his younger self learn and wanted to discover at that time.

Once Young Rufus reach his destination, he discovered a strange lunar wave of redness from the moon as it beam & showered down in a spot that magically made…a strange altar appear with an object in the center; a journal album with the words ‘MEMORY’ bolded to it in gold. 

“I was entranced by what I found and let my curious mind seek what I wanted to know, as I wanted it to be a memory I could treasure. And that is when it happened…” Rufus narrates to say that when his young self wanted to go deeper to understand what he was bear-witnessing, and was curious of the journal to memorize the contents.

As the Young Rufus came up to touch it, the journal opened to reveal many interesting written pages, pictures, and such things that as the contents glowed bright, many of the contents glowed to fly off to magical fuse in Rufus’s head along with the book. 

“When it was over, I suddenly realized what happened from what I’d memorized, I discovered the Element Of Memory, and was chosen to be the keeper of such a rare & unique element.” Rufus narrates in where his colt self was now experiencing much knowledge to understand what has happened to him as he has obtain an element and become a wielder.

And soon he discovered a glowing mark on his flank which was a curve ‘C’ with a sword across the line, almost like it was trying to inscribe something for memory as that was his Cutie Mark for Young Rufus’s special talent in always having to remember things in his memory. 

“With something unlock before me, my passion, my habits, became a part of a memory I found the most memorable to strive and achieve. It felt as if a part of Luna herself, rewarded me for loving her night sky.” Rufus narrates in what was happening with him before the young colt of Rufus’ past was soon set in motion.

Over time, Rufus discovered much of memorizing things in daily life to magic spells in books, and even seeing magic performed by both allies & villains, memorizing them all. Rufus even saw to it in memorizing the best looking Pegasus wings of the fastest flier, and soon, he gain those wings on his body, thus becoming an Alicorn. From there, Rufus gain more magic as an Alicorn and could perform greater feats than ever before. 

“Over the years, I have worn an outfit that I feel is perfect for my characteristics & from how I work to which even as an adult stallion, the mares seem to go crazy for me. Many villains that think they have me are proven otherwise and are completely helpless under the power I command.” Rufus narrates to explain in what he appears now presently shows that he is like a minstrel to which mares go crazy for, but his enemies underestimate his real strength that he topples them. “I’ve earn a nickname, The Minstrel Who Sings To The Red Moon, for when I work, even in the night, the moon turns red as a sign of my appearance and victory in battle that made me a legend.” Rufus narrated off to conclude how he’s become like someone who shines bright by a red moon, as if he sings to all.

The scene begins to darken with the light of a red moon hovering over Rufus during the time as if now closing to the past of what went on in the past.

---------


BACK IN THE PRESENT


The gang that heard Rufus’ story were by far amazed by a tale that seem to touch one’s heart. Truly Rufus was somewhat a poet and one whose thoughts can make one feel him like a musical minstrel about to perform.

“Wow; that was an amazing tale.” Fluttershy slowly responded in never felt anything like this in having heard such a tale that felt like a fairy tale.

“Thank you, I hope you’ll all have a good memory of it.” Rufus gave a gentleman’s bow in feeling honored by such kind words. “After having a longer life-span, I wanted to take a chance to meet with the Royal Sisters and complimented in seeing Luna again. I have long awaited to seeing her work in the night sky and have started to see its return.” He issued forth to say these things of what it was he wanted to expression a sign of compassion for one's work that will be...memorable.

“It is true, Rufus was one of the few ponies that enjoyed my work in the skies when the ponies went to sleep.” Luna smiled off in feeling happy another someone speak up in having enjoyed her work when nighttime comes.

"I guess even a thousand years, he must have enjoyed your work...I couldn't imagine it!" Starlight Glimmer exclaimed to say these things in having heard about the discussion of Rufus enjoying Luna's work in the night sky while others slept.

“An’ so, why else are ye here besides meeting’ us?” Applejack raised an eyebrow in still wondering why Rufus was here to begin with.

“Your memory should know about the arisen growing disturbance of the Three Lords, am I correct?” Rufus spoke up in starting to speak a bit more seriously now about a certain enemy group bunch.

“Oh yeah! We’ve had some dealings from them, but mostly between the 2nd and 3rd!” Pinkie Pie replied off in recalling which of the Three Lords of Equestria they had to deal with.

“In short, like the Dark Mystics or even the Apocalypse Ponies.” Rainbow Dash pointed off in stating the rank number order of each of the first two mentioned Three Lords.

“Well at least we managed to somehow survive them, if the top worse like Grimmore made a move, we all be in peril.” Rarity issued off in fearing that they have their hooves full in facing even worse villains at the top of the food chart.

“Like the time he sent our Dream Spirits to another world by cooperating with another Evil God from another dimensional realm. It wasn’t a pleasant experience, and we were lucky to make it back at all.” Twilight stated in knowing how close a shave they had when Grimmore acted and the Mane Six were almost finished when they were powerless in another dimension entirely different from Equestria Prime & survived against Wizeman, the Nightmaren Ruler of Nightmare that existed separately from the Night Dimension.

“I’ll say, running a kingdom without Twilight was, well…it wasn’t easy.” Ben spoke off to say in having gone through such tough times without his love beside him.

“Then perhaps a form of good news will cheer many of you up.” Celestia smiled off in about to say something to perk up some spirits. “As of now, Rufus Lore decided upon himself to stay close by.” She issued in announcing what Rufus will be doing as he’ll be close for those that need him.

“I’ll be staying within Canterlot Castle as one of its residents. I’ll memorize it perfectly to what I’ll do now.” Rufus smiled off to simply say that he’ll become accustomed to living within Canterlot Castle, just as the Royal Sisters and their employers do.

“So wait, you’re staying in Canterlot Castle?” Golden Heart yelped up in realizing what the guy was doing now after all this time.

“Not all problems are directed at Ponyville, but you shouldn’t worry about the matters here. Your memory of my abilities even astounded you, did they not?” Rufus simply replied off to calmly tell Golden Heart that with him, close by or afar, Rufus Lore is more than meets the eye.

“How could my memory forget, you never let them.” Goldie rolled his eyes to make a playful joke in seeing he walked right into that one.

“So that means you’ll be close by if something goes wrong, right?” Autumn Gem asked in following along what was being said here.

“Well then, that would make things a lot easier if there were more powerful Element Users around.” Sombra nodded off that if they have more strong Element Users, like Rufus, then their own enemies will have to think twice.

"It is the most logical choice of action." Fila spoke off in also agreeing on the basic term of the subject.

“I thank you for your honest thoughts and hope that with a good memory, that we can remember…we’re friends.” Rufus Lore made a graceful bow in honoring the matter and that they’ll be friends.

“Oh course. We’ll have memory of it. Oh, boy, now I’m getting that memory dialogue in me.” Jack Zen responded to say with a smile, then did a double-look at seeing he’s now talking like Rufus too.

Ben has a thought as he spoke up, "Hey, Rufus. You said that you can access anyone's memories, right?"

"Certainly, my dear boy. Why?" Rufus ask Ben curiously, wondering where he is going with this.

"Can you access two guys named Shadow Dragon and Lelouch the Herald of Melancholy?"

Rufus hummed to think about this, "Ben, I'm not sure..."

"What do you mean?" Ben ask Rufus in concern.

"I've known Shadow Dragon quite some time but it's completely restricted and forbidden. I promised to a mare that the past will not be revealed, unless she is prepared."

"Who would that be?"

"I cannot tell you of that." Rufus said seriously. He cannot even tell anyone who told him not to reveal Shadow Dragon's past and the Alicorn isn't about to break a promise now.

"Then, what about Lelouch? Herald of Melancholy?" Ben ask Rufus, getting to that problem.

"Hmm... That I cannot. I have no knowledge or information about him. Did you ask the Chronicler of him?"

"No... He said he doesn't have much information about Lelouch or any of Heralds. He said they're just a myth."

"Yeah, we tried various times but he doesn't have anything on him." Nyx said in concern.

"Right, it's like...the information of that subject has up and disappear." Starlight said in agreement.

"And he's right. No one has known or seen the Heralds or Guardians before in their lives. It's very strange and mysterious to us." Rufus said, showing that even he is bewildered about that. "All we know is their legend. It is said that the Mystic Heaven and his Guardians have defeated and banished both the Demon God and Heralds of Darkness. No one knows what really happen or whether they even exist. It's nothing but a legend. Ben, why do you ask of that?"

"Because I've encountered him after Flurry Heart's Crystalling." Ben said, frowning as he recalled his encounter with Leloch.

Twilight nodded as she continues, "And it wasn't very good either."

"Yeah, when I see that jerk, I'm gonna give that jerk some punch. He's no good son of-!" Rainbow begins to speak as if she's about to insult the villain.

"Rainbow Dash!" Mostly everyone else yells out in alarm.

"I was gonna said stupid devil."

"Perhaps, I will see to it with my own eyes." Rufus said as he begins touching Ben and everyone's forehead. The Alicorn focuses for a bit...then he gasped as if something that he saw...scared him. "Oh my."

As Rufus let go, Ben said, "Now you know why."

"I can't be sure how we can win. The only warriors who can defeat Lelouch and the rest of Heralds are Mystic Guardians. But unfortunately, no one, not even Chronicler knows it. But I'll let you know if I found the answer."

"Please, we took on foes who are tough to beat before. We can handle a bunch of creeps." Rainbow said arrogantly. The others glares at her, she can be so overconfident.

"Say, Rufus? Can you gain access to memories of a previous life?" Spike ask Rufus, thinking of something. "My family and I have lost a bit of memories during a time travelling trip not too long ago..."

"My bad." Starlight admits sheepishly.

"And I was wondering..."

Rufus interrupts seriously, "I know what you're going for...but it's impossible. I can only gain access to memories of this lifetime. Anything from your previous life is gone for good."

"Yeah, I thought so." Spike said with a sigh. Perhaps the mysteries of those he has forgotten may never be found again.

“Thank you all for dropping by, we hope everything back home is going alright.” Celestia smiled to thank those for coming to see and meet a new ally this day.

“It sure is mom.” Ben smiled off to say while giving his mother a hug.

“Bye-bye, see you later!” Nyx waved off in saying farewell to her grandma and Luna and Rufus too.

“Which is sometime soon, no less.” Phobos pointed off in knowing they’ll see each other again, who knows, maybe next week maybe.

Now the Mane Six and the gang slowly heading to the doors while saying farewell to the Royal Sisters & Rufus at the time. Afterwards when those that left the room were gone, only Celestia, Luna & Rufus were alone to discuss ‘other’ issues at the time being.

“They appear to be as you said in memory as I’ve seen before their arrival with your aid.” Rufus Lore spoke off in having seen what sort of characters Twilight and the rest are, as he did a display of a memory illusion, thanks to Celestia.

“Yes, which is why our enemies are trying to do what they can to harm us.” Celestia slowly nodded while being serious over the case of what’s happening.

“By the way, if memory serves right, there was a request you wanted for me to know about.” Rufus narrow his eyes to the Royal Sisters in becoming slightly serious about a certain ‘request’ at hand.

“There is…while we have long lasted over the years as Alicorns, you have the best memory to remember things.” Luna issued off that while the Royal Sisters have been around as have a few others that are Alicorns, but with the one with the best memory of things to remember; Rufus Lore is that stallion to be.

“And it brings up to a serious question you asked of me.” Rufus spoke off to say in holding his chin to close his eyes and to think. “The question referring to…about one called Chase the Warrior. One who has travel on a journey to hone his warrior skills,” He issued off that the subject is revolving around that one particular character in question.

“And…” Both Royal Sisters asked in awaiting anxiously of what Rufus can say.

“It is regretful, but…” Rufus opens his eyes a bit to look down in feeling this news will be a bit down and regretful of what he truly has a memory of. “The only Chase my Memory Element recalls perfectly is during the days when Dragon Hope went under the alias. I was there while hiding my true self when you, Azure Phoenix, Dragon Hope, were once together after 500 years ago. To this very day, no pony has ever named their colt child, Chase, and so it’s been that way…until recently.” Rufus explained the case that from the past long ago, only the one known as Dragon Hope BEFORE he became Shadow Dragon, under took the name Chase and there was never another Chase to be seen until this recent Chase the Warrior showed up.

“So then, the question is…where did this Chase the Warrior come from?” Celestia spoke in feeling suspicious about the new Chase in question.

“Is it possible he took the name to hide his true self, perhaps,” Luna pondered off to say in what could be the result of it being the key.

“We cannot be certain, just as we cannot be certain if…the Chase of today is more related to the Chase of a Past Memory.” Rufus Lore spoke in being serious over the matter that perhaps the two different Chases of the past and present, are maybe...one in the same. “However, perhaps we can find out best by recruiting someone to help.” He spoke in making a helpful suggestion here.

“Who did you have in mind?” Celestia raised an eyebrow in wondering who Rufus was going to suggest they get help from.

“Another Element User, but first, I believe your Memory recalls the day the Mane Six were caught in a trap; the Element Blackout Alchemy.” Rufus issued off to say while bringing up a subject about a certain spell that caught the Mane Six off guard.

“A fearsome spell that shuts down an element user’s power unless they know how to cancel it.” Luna replied off in knowing much about that, during the Clone Six event, Houndkiller of the Dark Mystics used that to almost siege victory on the Mane Six, Ben & Pinkamena.

“Correct, but you see…the Element User I am talking about has a true nack for traps.” Rufus repeated off to quote his statement while focusing on the recruit subject in point. “My Memory knows where to find him and ask his recruitment, the one called…Bickslow.” He spoke off the name of one that would be perfect in the settlement of..traps.

The Royal Sisters were quiet in having heard the name as they know it well. And soon Rufus’s image fades like…a memory of his form that Celestia & Luna widen their eyes while knowing, Rufus must have already left in which they never saw. So now as the scene fades, the Royal Sisters can only hope that Rufus will know what he’s doing to find the one called Bickslow to help them out with the Chase case before any real harm can come into plain.

------------------------------------------------

The scene begins to change to within the place that Shadow Dragon was staying at within Ponyvile. A Corridor of Darkness opened up that let Shadow Dragon and Tech out in the middle of the room before the portal closed. At the same moment, Tech was closing the blinds of any windows while locking them and the doors. Soon the room was darken, Tech stood in the far background while Shadow Dragon got in a meditative state with his eyes shut. Soon three portal windows opened around the front of the stallion as they are seen from left to right: The Superior, Dark Curse and even Grimmore himself.

“Shadow Dragon, reporting in.” Shadow Dragon slowly opened his eyes in stating he’s here to report of his mission.

“Greetings Shadow Dragon, what is the report?” Dark Curse responded in seeing his loyal apprentice here.

“I’m nearly at the point, of knowing the location of where the Mystic Shield is located.” Shadow Dragon issued off to mention of how close he is on the objective.

“I see, that would indeed be news to rejoice in….and what of those you have watched?” The Superior responded off to say in seeing that while one part is being done, what of the heroes.

“The Mane Six have gotten a bit stronger from other current events and such, as for Ben Mare…” Shadow Dragon was slowly reporting the matters before stopping to look down over the next subject of Ben’s current strength.

“Go on?” The Superior asked in feeling there was hesitation and a cause to earn some attention.

“He has unlock the Lens of Truth.” Shadow Dragon spoke this out in a diligent manner of what item Ben has now awaken into his possession.

The news caught some attention for the Three Lords to not show much emotional expressions, but knew that a problem had indeed arose in what Ben has called up from his Triforce power.

“So…Ben Mare has awaken that which puts your cover at risk.” The Superior spoke to hold his chin in feeling this news was indeed trouble sounding.

“Do you still hold the Reversing Mirror?” Dark Curse raised an eyebrow in wondering if Shadow Dragon still had that Mystic Weapon on hand.

“Yes my lord, as long as it’s within my possession, Ben’s Lens of Truth cannot reveal who I am.” Shadow Dragon nods his head in stating that so long as he has the Reversing Mirror, it will reflect and keep the Lens of Truth from showing Ben and the others who Chase REALLY is.

“Can you be certain?” Grimmore raised an eyebrow in being curious about that so-called claim.

“I’m certain, I will complete the objective before they learn of who Chase the Warrior is!” Shadow Dragon responded off in giving his word that he shall accomplish his task before the heroes learn of who he is while undercover. “I’m very close to finding where the Mystics hid their shield, I just need enough time.” He stated that he needs but little more time to truly locate the shield’s location.

“Time…is growing short.” Grimmore spoke to gaze his eyes upon Shadow Dragon with a deep dark tone as the pressure in the room felt heavy; Tech felt super scared right now while Shadow Dragon tries to keep himself in check when the presence of a War-God speaks off to them. “So long as the shield remains, it is keeping even the most powerful of destructive spells from touching it.” The Overlord King stated that unless the shield the Mystics setup is gone, they cannot attack so easily.

“Grimmore is correct, only very little handfuls of those working with us have begun to attack without much success.” The Superior nods in agreement to Grimmore that with that shield up, neither of their forces can get much out of it.

“True, and while my own warriors have gone about, their strongest of powers are being limited to give the Equestrians a chance.” Dark Curse remarked off to curse that with the Mystic Shield, it’s lowering much of his own forces magical destructive powers.

“Yes, but the shield was focus on keeping only one type of evil out…and it is from the Grimmore Army.” Shadow Dragon open his eyes in stating why the Mystic Shield was created in the first place; to keep Grimmore & his own forces out.

“Which is why you must find and destroy…not only for aiding a War-God, but the rest of the Three Lords.” Grimmore issued forth the matter of which must be done to insure nothing gets in their way.

“But the question still remains, what about the Mystics that may be in the area?” The Superior spoke in recalling that some Mystics maybe within the area on Equestria than in the Mystic Realm.

“I’ve managed to study that there are very few between Canterlot, Cloudsdale & Ponyville, most of which, they are too busy to know what is going on.” Shadow Dragon spoke off in stating where only a few handful of Mystics are located.

“Well done, Shadow Dragon. With them at their weakest focus, then you can truly find & destroy the shield.” Dark Curse shield off proudly at what his best warrior shall be doing next very soon.

“I shall do my part for which shall lead victory to us all, Lord Dark Curse.” Shadow Dragon bows before his lord in promising what he shall bring.

“Then proceed….once the shield is gone…then the Mystics hope of stopping us will be far more harder than they believe.” Grimmore declared forth in stating this for which when the shield is gone, then the Mystics shall find battling them far harder than they imagine.

“What do you mean, Lord Grimmore?” Shadow Dragon look to the powerful Dark Elf as if he has a trick up his sleeve.

“That…shall be revealed…in due time…” Grimmore smiled off fiendishly in stating this as…a hidden factor.

Then suddenly without warning, the three portal windows began to close in and then vanished without a trace. Once the presence of the Three Lords of Equestria were gone, the room felt less heavy, as even Tech sigh in relief.

“So um, how’d it go?” Tech then approached Shadow Dragon in wondering how that went with the discussion with the Three Lords.

“Never mind that Tech, I must find the shield.” Shadow Dragon cuts Tech off to stand up again with a renew focus. “What are the only areas left to search?” He turn to the nibbling worm in wanting some answers, and he wants them now.

“Ah-ah-ah…give me a second! Um…these areas!” Tech was quickly working on a little tech of his before showing a digital map of blinking lights of which they haven’t search near.

“They’ll do…” Shadow Dragon remotely stated without much a careful tone as he knows where to go next.

Then Shadow Dragon begins to leave the scene with his silent walk approach while Tech look silently at where the guy was going. Apparently, the only areas left are likely the ones to hide the Mystic Shield. Now things begin to darken now, for what will come next could be anyone’s guess.
> Chapter 03: Surprise Match: Chase VS. Kilik
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 03: Surprise Match: Chase VS. Kilik


At this moment, Shadow Dragon transform himself back into being Chase and was just going about his own daily business in Ponyville. After his secret meeting with the Three Lords, the location to finding the Mystic Shield is ticking. He has just finished some search in an area while not bringing any attention on himself during this moment at the time.

“It would seem these areas by the west of Ponyville is NOT where it’s hidden.” Chase labeled off in registering where one spot to check didn’t show signs of keeping a hidden Mystic object like a shield. “In that case, I’ll have to try the east area.” He stated in knowing where he’ll need to head off towards next here.

Just then however, there was some noises off in the distance that earn Chase’s attention at this particular moment to investigate. And as he arrived, it was in an open area where Ben and the Mane Six along with Starlight Glimmer, Nyx & the baby Dragons seem to be doing some sorta little exercise drills while the CMC watch them. It was only a few little runarounds, the ducking of easy tire swings, and then it came to how they’ll fight which some like to work with partners.

“Hmmm…it appears the Mane Six and Ben are doing some training exercise.” Chase stated in registering this activity as something simple, nothing major or any of that sorta stuff for serious drills even from the Royal Guard.

“Come on AJ; that all you got?” Rainbow Dash was raging off in holding her nunchucks to get under AJ’s fur.

“Got plenty more where dat came from!” Applejack spoke off to say in bringing her hooves up to keep smacking against Rainbow’s nunchucks to get through that defense.

“Should I make a stance like this…or this when I attack?” Rarity asked off towards Fluttershy in not deciding what battle pose she should make while using her Eternal Style.

“Oh, I’m not sure. I think they all seem very nice.” Fluttershy smiled off to simply say what was her simple thoughts on what Rarity was doing.

“Here comes…ME!” Pinkie Pie issued off in appearing out of nowhere and brought her party cannon with a silly drawing label ‘Acid Cannon’ on it. “Powwwfruvhmmm…” Then she fired it off, but it was too big and soon it rain down and everyone training was all covered in green, goopy, gunky stuff that was sticky.

“PINKIE!” The others shouted off at their friend for making them all look messy from that stunt.

“Well, this’ll take time to wash this stuff off.” Twilight slightly cringe at the gunky stuff that she and everyone is covered in.

“Just be glad it’s only slime and not real acid like we were supposed to pretend to dodge.” Ben smiled off lightly to look on the more positive side of their situation.

“Well it’s a sticky situation we got here.” Phobos rolled his eyes to say this in how things are looking now.

“You’re telling me.” Spike replied off to agree with Phobos on that one.

"Ugh, to think training be so...messy!" Starlight Glimmer replied off in feeling disgusted by this stuff.

“Hey look, isn’t that Chase?” Nyx pointed off in seeing someone was nearby and watching them.

At that moment, Chase could see that focus was on him from watching the group. So in accordance, he acted natural to approach the group to learn what is happening here.

“I see you’re all trying to train?” Chase asked off in noticing what he could guess was some strange but silly way to train.

“They sure are!” Apple Bloom nodded off to respond to say what the gang are doing.

“They’re keeping up the pace!” Scootaloo proudly nodded in how well everyone is getting by.

“And making it more fun!” Sweetie Belle smiled off to say in what else the gang is doing that makes this interesting.

“Why not join us Chase? Pinkie Pie & Rainbow design it so it could be athletic, but with some fun twist to it.” Ben spoke off to offer Chase a chance to try out this little training game they are doing, just for fun.

“As much as I like to, my training sections are for more serious manners than of making things ‘fun’ at the expense. You should know this Ben.” Chase responded off to kindly decline the offer as when he trains, he doesn’t add any ‘silly’ or ‘fun’ twist to it.

“For any matter, training is still training, wouldn’t you agree?” Suddenly, a voice came from someone appearing on the sight, and it was reveal to be….Kilik.

“Oh right, Chase…I was having some training workout with Kilik, but he said to go ahead with everyone here while he finished something for Zecora.” Ben responded off in remembering that he was gonna train with Kilik, but the guy had to finish an errand, so while Kilik was away, the others decided to partake in helping Ben train while adding fun to the mix.

“I see, then, please…do not let my presence interrupt another’s training.” Chase humbly spoke to say while preparing to turn away at this time…

“Wait…” Kilik spoke in which stops Chase momentarily at this time to listen. “If you are not interested in joining to train with the rest, then what about a match?” He spoke in offering something that would benefit someone like Chase the Warrior.

“A match? Against who?” Chase raised an eyebrow to look back in being curious now, just who would be match against him?

“Against me.” Kilik issued this off as stating that Chase and he will face another.

That earn some silence from everyone who was cleaning the slime off them to pay big attention now. Kilik was asking that he and Chase face off in a match, two tough opponents about to go at yet. Nobody couldn’t say it was not to be expected when two opponents want to test another out by facing another.

“Wait, Kilik, you wanna fight Chase?” Twilight yelped upon having heard what was going on here.

“Woah, didn’t see this coming!” Phobos replied off in seeing this was not expected.

“You and me both.” Spike replied off that he agrees on that term.

“I am sorry, but I must kindly decline. I will not fight.” Chase on replied off to say this suddenly; which brought many of the others to question why the brave warrior won’t do it.

“I thought you wanted to perfect & hone your skills. Isn’t it what you want to improve them for protecting those here in Ponyville?” Kilik asked this off in being curious, why was Chase not wanting to partake.

“That is correct, however…The reason is that you’re a very skillful & powerful warrior, Kilik. After all, you are known as The Awakened Hero of Destiny. You possess one of the Elements related to the Elements of Harmony. I surely would lose to you.” Chase explained off in stating matters of knowing where their strength differs.

“It is true, but no pony is perfect. Surely you underestimate yourself for having face Dark Mystics to be capable of facing those even with magic. How about this? We just spar without using our full strength, & rely on martial arts & our weapons of choice.” Kilik spoke off to say this with a friendly smile, but then he notice Chase eying both his pole, & even…another object he holds. “And as another favor, I will leave the sacred mirror for Starlight to hold. But remember, even if apart, I have master to draw its strength even afar.” As Kilik spoke, he remove his sacred mirror, & toss it for Starlight Glimmer to hold on for him.

“I see…very well, it’s a deal. And perhaps, this may be intriguing.” Chase responded off while being somewhat interested, for him to have a match against such a well-renown skilled warrior like Kilik. “I’ve heard you are very skilled and how you even managed to hold your own against Burnblast, who’s second only in being as strong…as Shadow Dragon.” He recalls that when a certain event played out in rescuing a friend that was taken prisoner by Drago, Son of Shendu, Kilik was one of the rescue teams with the others and fought the one Dark Mystic whom Shadow Dragon considers a good rival to face off.

“Then if you know about that, then I’m certain you have hone skills to which you can even fight against such foes. You even risk your life to stop a Dark Mystic from hurting Ben.” Kilik replied off in saying something like this in knowing that Chase is also not much a mere Earth stallion, as he has skills of a warrior as well.

“Indeed. Very well, then let us have the match… Even if we are sparring, I want you to come at me with just about every bit of your fighting potential.” Chase smiled in feeling a bit intrigue to see how well he can fight against this opponent, especially with only physical developed strength that can be expected from an Earth stallion.

“If you are certain, then very well…” Kilik replied off in awaiting this moment to see this warrior’s skills be seen in battle…while also keeping a sharp eye on him.

Now awkward silence fills the air, as both opponents move backwards to get a good distance from another. Chase held out his sword while getting into a battle positron, Kilik does the same while getting his pole-rod out to twirl & rotate while getting into a battle stance. Both fighters were gazing at another, watching, carefully studying another, not making any sudden movements. Even with the wind passing by, they remain as if perfectly still, not even while everyone else was watching, did it bother them.

“Why aren’t they going already? Get to the fight now! I’m bored here!” Rainbow Dash in seeing that this two opponents aren’t duking it yet.

“Rainbow Dash, don’t ye know ponies from de Land of Ma have a custom? If one makes de first move, gives de other guy an opportunity.” Applejack issued to tell her daring headstrong friend about what advantage happens when one does such an action.

“True…No one can tell of how they respond. But, well sometimes that works, but sometimes, it works differently.” Rarity stated to say in recalling how something like that works in either opponent’s favor.

“Oh my, I don’t know which of them I should cheer for! Who are we going to support & cheer for?” Fluttershy spoke in feeling concern of what to do here in who to cheer for.

“GO WHOEVER!” Pinkie Pie cheered off which earn weird looks from others. “What, it’s better than choosing! Especially saying the name & not making it sound like we favor another.” She responded back to her pals that found her cheering weird?

“Ben, what do you think will win? Chase against Kilik?” Twilight asked her love in wondering if Chase can win this, especially with Kilik being skilled.

“I don’t know Twilight, they’re both good fighters, but in truth…I’ve never seen Chase try to go all serious except during the Clone Six kidnapping.” Ben shrug off to say in not knowing what to say about this situation since Chase hasn’t shown much off of his real strength in the past. “However, while both of them look good, but for Chase, he seems to be ready for this…like he’s been waiting for it.” Ben replied off in stating this factor in question of how it looks.

“Yeah…I wonder what he’s up to…” Starlight Glimmer thought out while trying to recall something. “For Chase, there was also the time against the Dark Mystics, but then he disappeared when Gravi & his army showed up, so the view of his strength is....unknown even to me!" Starlight Glimmer exclaimed in seeing the scene & knowing that Chase may still be hiding something that was never seen, maybe.

While the others were speaking their own thoughts & stating their own facts, Kilik & Chase were busy watching the other in what to do here.

“Time to see what he’s capable of. They don’t call him Awakened Hero of Destiny’ for nothing. Even without his sacred mirror, he’s definitely not showing any lacking. Gotta be careful with my own move. The major concern was any of Kilik’s attacks that come in possession of being wrapped around the Dvapara-Yuga, the sacred treasure mirror. One touch from that on me & my cover WILL be blown.” Chase though this off in his head in knowing that he needs to be careful with Kilik not just from his skills & the Element Weapon, but from one dangerous object that could do him greater harm; the mirror that holds a shard of purity from the Element of Light, even if Kilik is not wearing it, Chase should not lower his guard.

“Len Pin Jab!” Kilik issued off from focusing his magic blue aura around his pole-rod. “Grovhmm…Brizizivhmm…” Then he jabs it through the ground, it lets out blue magic bolt jabs to attack the target from underground.

“Heeeh!” Chase reacted to that to dodge what Kilik thrown at him with a close second of a shave as he rolled over to his left just before that attack stroke him down.

“Zhao Hurricane!” Kilik was focusing and rotating his pole-rod in front of him as his magical blue chi aura surrounds it. “Poowwfruvhmm…” Which at the same time was creating a magical blue hurricane twister going for Chase.

“GRRRR…” Chase quickly dug his hooves on the ground as hard as he did as he held it tightly while bracing the attacks. He was withstanding this twister force trying to blast him away, but he was blinded when sand of the area came into his eyes.

But while the hurricane blinded Chase, he closed his eyes and soon…he used his Aura Sense to see all the blue auras of everyone on the side and….one that belongs to Kilik who’s coming up for an attack. But Chase managed to counter with his sword, Kilik charged in to attack, but Chase dodged & avoided the attacks swiftly before the former could even tried to hit & strike down for few times. Kilik thrust his pole at Chase, the lone warrior swiftly rotated around before using the guy out.

“Aura Sense. You figure I blind you and so you sense where my aura was coming from? Both Impressive & Resourceful…” Kilik stated in recognizing what Chase was doing to prevent him from landing a physical blow from being blind. “Then try this…Kai Chi Barrage!”

Soon Kilik creates blue magic aura chi around the weapon & performs rapid thrust moves in firing a barrage of his attacks. Chase managed to use his swordsman skills to deflect the attacks with his own sword for a few times. Then Kilik gave a thrust, Chase quickly grabbed its edge before he spun around to the former’s back while nudged on his head for five times.

“Chase Prowl…” Chase then got some distance before suddenly was rushing at a fast rate, preparing to strike with his sword.

“Tai Chi Breakdown!” Kilik announced forth in focusing extra blue magic aura chi around his pole-rod. “Ppwwfuvhmm…” Then he performed a strike on the ground that unleashed a clear blue magic aura wave to all his surrounding field.

“Hugh!” Chase gasped in registering that move and it’s dangerous before he leaps up to grab onto a tree while watching that attack go by. “That was too close, that move comes with a holy paralyzing effect, it would have been too effected on one of darkness. Not to mention, it could make my Element of Darkness agitated to cause us both to be deflected backwards.” Chase silently whispered to himself in seeing what almost got him and could have expose his Dark Mystic form.

At that moment, Chase jump off the tee & started to charge around to attack Kilik from afar by going in close & then back out when he landed a blow. But Kilik was quickly keeping up in trying to keep any of Chase’s moves from reaching him. Kilik dodged, blocked & deflected the attacks for a few times while observing & studying Chase’s moves. Everyone that watch this were so hook on this, it was like seeing something go nearly as fast as Rainbow Dash’s speed. Both of them continued battling with each other fiercely & determinedly. Neither side was about to call it quits here & were duking a lot out. 

“Zen Wave!” Kilik announced from spinning his pole-rod above his head, concentrating his magic blue chi aura to surround it. “Frusvhmm…Sizizivhmmm…” Then with the right thrust work, he unleashed it to take the form of a spinning aura blade disc.

“Countermeasure!” Chase soon got into a counter position, as the blade of magic contacted with him before he knock it away from him towards an off direction where no one was near; but then he saw something else coming. “Drat! He waited for that!” Chase cursed because just before he could do anything, Kilik was already upon him, he used that move that took all of his focus to not be cut in order for Kilik to deliver the final blow.

“Ling Shenmg Su!” Kilik announced forth the next attack move of his.

Soon Kilik kicks and jabs Chase to the ground with his rod. Then Kilik jumps high up in the air with the cry of a phoenix.

“This is the end!” Kilik shouted off in preparing to end this match right now.

“Powfruvhmm…” Kilik slams his rode a corner of Chase’s side by the ground in actually missing him, while causing golden feathers to suddenly appear. Everyone was looking and pretty soon the match was over as Chase look down to see that Kilik missed seriously hurting him since they were just sparring; if it was an actual fight, that move would have done some inflicted damage.

“Nothing personal.” Kilik replied off to say to Chase as he look down at the guy who open his eyes to look at the one above him. “You fought well, Chase…” Kilik soon offered his right hoof for his opponent to take it as a sign of respect for fighting well.

Chase looks at the extended hoof offered to him, but also saw Starlight approaching with the guy’s sacred treasure. If that mirror touches him, it will burn the dark tainted evil. Chase needs to think, if the mirror touches him, he’s expose, but he needs to be calm and think this through while keeping his real strength from being seen as to not alert any suspicions.

“Well, I shall admit, your skills are impressive to even match against a Dark Mystic in battle.” Chase exclaimed to say this about Kilik’s skills of what was done. 

“As are yours, from what many claim, you are an extraordinary fighter & even Ben believes so. It lookalike they were right. Impressive, it looks like you can handle with some thugs, especially the Three Lords.” Kilik issued off to say this while being generous to await Chase to take his hoof to get up…

“You need not bother to help one who can get up with his own strength.” Chase stated that he is capable of picking himself up from battle. “But thanks for the latter comment, but it’s just my luck that helps me through.” Chase issued off to say this about himself in comparing to fighting thugs of the Three Lords.

Soon after Chase was up, he dust himself of any dirt while looking at least okay. Despite having taken light damage of the sparring, the guy showed to be a lot tougher than he looks. As many from the Mane Six & Ben wondered if Chase built himself to withstand against such hard hits and to be fast enough to dodge most of Kilik’s attacks.

“Thank you for the match, you truly are a great warrior, Kilik. Perhaps if I met you in another time, in another place, my path could have been different.” Chase did an honorable bow to say this in implying that Kilik is a good warrior, maybe someone he would have like to have met in his life earlier; in which case, it would have been as Dragon Hope. “Until then, I shall bid you all farewell.” Chase turn towards everyone else in preparing to depart now.

“You’re gonna leave already?” Ben responded to say in having heard Chase won’t be sticking around.

“Yes Ben, like you, I to, am busy with a task at hand.” Chase responded to issue this as that like many, he’s busy with his own duty. “So for now, take care of your skills to help them grow…” He issued off to say this as wanting Ben to keep on improving his skills.

Chase was then taking his leave while many of the others just silently watch him leave without so much as looking at them. Some thought maybe Chase wasn’t use to losing or that since he was but a normal Earth Pony with only his best swordsmen skills and Aura Senses, going against those that had an Element base power and magic tips the adversary.

“Kilik, don’t you think that was too much?” Ben approached Kilik to ask something that bothered him a bit.

“No, like a warrior, he fought well. But did you notice a different on him?” Kilik stated to say this with a straight face.

“Different? No, why?” Ben replied off puzzled to shake his head.

“As we fought, Chase had shown moves known as the Blazing Dragoon Style. Known for quick & self-defense & it’s an advance class.” Kilik explained the method behind the style Chase used was an advance class of martial arts.

“You could tell that?” Starlight raised an eyebrow in not believing this?

“Yes, but there’s more. My teacher, Edge Master, told me that a Dark Mystic known as Shadow Dragon was the last to have achieve that style, it seems suspicious to think he knows moves that were lost for ages.” Kilik rubbed his chin to ponder this off in what they saw seem to bother him a bit, how did Chase gain such knowledge when only Shadow Dragon of the Dark Mystics was last to have obtain the advance class methods of that style.

“Wait, what are you getting at? So he knows moves that someone else has, Chase might have found lost martial art scrolls.” Ben replied off in feeling like this was getting out of hand, so what if Chase learn moves an enemy knows; for all they know, Chase stubble across such moves in a lost scroll before he settle in Ponyville.

“Even still, you should be careful…he seems to be hiding such fighting style when he was actually avoiding my attacks.” Kilik issued off to say this in being focus & serious o the topic.

“So, what’s the point?” Phobos raised an eyebrow in not seeing much a point to this.

“Chase would know that Kilik can do close, middle, and even long range combat. But he did at times keep a distance from some of his attacks.” Twilight stated in thinking off in what Chase was doing that seem to be off, like the guy wasn’t wanting to be so close to Kilik during those other attacks of his, why?

"It was almost like he didn't want to risk facing someone who might have something to make him feel unprepared." Starlight Glimmer rubbed her chin in thinking about what Chase was doing against Kilik that stood out.

“That does make some sense. Maybe it was his strategy.” Spike rub his head in thinking that Chase thought it was a good plan.

“No, Twilight is right.” Kilik spoke off in saying that what Twilight was saying was not mistaken. “As we fought, he could have tried to get me in a tight-lock between our weapons, but he seem mostly against it.” Kilik explained that when it look like the two would be in long lock combats at each other, Chase didn’t seem very interested in the idea for strange reasons.

“I’m confused, isn’t that a good thing?” Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow in not finding this a bit understanding since Kilik won in the end.

“No Rainbow, Chase doesn’t have magic powers, so only his physical abilities are used!” Applejack spoke off to remind her friend that Chase is an Earth Pony who has to rely on strength & developed body to fight.

“And while that would have been better, Chase kept a distance to be watchful.” Rarity stated in having seen what Chase was doing seem very odd indeed.

“Well, I would wanna stay away from being whack…oh, not that it’s bad for you, Kilik.” Fluttershy was saying before meekly yelp in feeling like she offended Kilik, who shook his head in saying ‘not at all’ to the shy mare.

“Still, it look like Chase was really trying even during sparring time, so it’s good that you went easy on him, right?” Pinkie Pie smiled off in knowing that Chase did his best to have a match against Kilik.

“It is hard to say.” Kilik spoke off in feeling something of concern that was tugging in the back of his mind about this scene. 

“Even still, that looked like a close call. Just because Chase’s a Martial Artist, doesn’t mean he’s powerful as a Mystic Pony!” Ben complained off that Chase isn’t made of tough stuff when if Kilik didn’t miss that last attack of his, it could have hurt Chase.

“Even so, I wanted to see it for myself. You must remember…you’re the enemy’s target. And they will do whatever it takes for them to get your power.” Kilik exclaimed off to say this to his friend about understanding things around them. “You have all three of them; the Triforce. It is best we are all at our best for when they come.” He stated to say this about knowing how Ben is the central focus on many enemies watch.

“But what does that have to do with testing Chase, it’s like everyone thinks he’s up to something?” Ben asked off in being upset in what was being done to the poor guy that many find Chase was up to something strange.

“Ben, why are you defending him?” Starlight asked in why Ben was so forceful when it comes to Chase.

“It’s because he’s my friend. He helped in defending our home, saving some lives for so many times. Yet it seems many feel like they can’t trust him!” Ben exclaimed off to say this in how Chase does much good, but hardly gets much credit.

“Ben, please….” Kilik spoke in feeling that Ben was losing to his emotions.

“Look, I know everyone is just being concern, but…long ago when I last listen to someone who wanted to help me be with Twilight, Boris turn me into a monster. That caused me to lose my friendship with Flash Sentry & even Sunburst. I spend years being the Demon Pony without knowing how to be cured. I don’t want to feel like those that are my friends are pulling me in different directions for good or worse.” Ben stated off to say this in feeling that when he trusted Boris to be a good friend, it ruin his childhood, & even if that was resolve, who’s to say it can’t still happen.

“Please, Ben…you must…” Kilik spoke in trying to help calm the stallion down from feeling angry.

“I know you & many others came here to defend our kingdom because you wanted to find peace & a place to call home. But what about Chase, isn’t he like that? Why can’t we accept him as one of us?” Ben complained off to yell a bit, feeling that there are many good ponies wanting to help keep the Rainbow Kingdom safe, but it seems like Chase is the only one being excluded like he doesn’t fit in at all.

Ben seem to look really upset, he looked away to scrunch his eyes a bit, while Twilight came over to lean near him, feeling a bit concern for her love, even Nyx wanted to make sure her daddy was not alone. The others felt troubled in seeing they made Ben feel so wonky about the whole ‘Chase Case’ & how it’s the same story of the unsociable guy, not socializing much in pony society.

“I’m sorry Kilik, it seems like Ben’s in a sensitive & upset state. Chase was the first instructor to help him, & well…he feels that he’s not getting a chance to open up & let us in.” Twilight apologized for Ben’s behavior, knowing how touchy he was getting here.

“I see, very well…I understand.” Kilik lightly nods in understanding, he can see that Ben needs time since accepting this much was hard for him. “The only thing I can understand is that Chase…is not an ordinary pony.” Kilik whispered this to himself in knowing that with Chase, he’s not any ordinary pony, there is something about him that sticks out the most. “Perhaps its best we call it a day, you all might be tired today from returning from Canterlot.” He spoke in offering to let those that work hard have it easy since they returned.

“Well Golden Heart and their group had to go somewhere.” Sweetie Belle stated in recalling where their other friends went off to.

“Seem like a big hurry to, wonder what’s up?” Apple Bloom stated to say in recalling Goldie’s group was in a hurry.

“Guess we’ll know when they tell us, especially Pinkamena.” Scootaloo shrug off to say that if that group wants to tell them what’s up, Pinkamena might since she recalled something.

“For now, thanks for letting us help Ben with some training Kilik.” Twilight smiled in thanking Kilik for letting the others help in Ben’s little training exercise.

“My pleasure, take care of yourselves now.” Kilik nods off in humbly accepting the comment while wishing those here to be safe.

"We will, thank you for the concerns." Starlight Glimmer smiled off to nod in response to the wise & kind words for thought.

Soon everybody was going their own ways after having had a little time to do a little training to help Ben. But some are kinda now wondering if anything is wrong with Chase since he didn’t seem to act much like himself. And Ben’s mind was in a dishevel state, as if being torn between defending the guy who has a hard time opening up to everyone. The scene goes dark with many more puzzling questions as to what will go on from now and later on in the gang’s lives…

---------------------

At them, Chase was walking through the market area after having left Ben, the Mane Six & their friends group from their training workout to continue more pressing matters. Such as locating the Mystic Shield in where it is hidden but cannot be found, he needs to find it.

“Pssss, Chase!” Then Tech’s voice came from an alley in attracting Chase’s attention.

“Urrrragh!” Chase groans in seeing this annoyance was nearby when he was working.

“Over here, come on!” Tech whispered out to follow him into the alley.

“Very well.” Chase rolled his eyes in annoyance; may as well see what Tech wants with him, but it better be good.

Soon Chase enters the dark alley where no one was around to see or notice him. And upon getting further in, Tech was hiding before popping up to come to the undercover Dark Mystic.

“What happened out there, why didn’t you fight more against Kilik? Why didn’t you finish him off? Where’s that Shadow Dragon mojo?” Tech was asking off in having saw the fight, and Chase look like he barely fought hard.

“You simpleton! The strength that is Chase the Warrior is limited to what he can and CAN’T do in front of others!” Chase snapped off in telling Tech that the strength he showed and the strength he didn’t show would have caused different sets of alarm.

“Hugh?” Tech raised an eyebrow in not following along.

“If I was using more than my skills of training with the body, and rely on my Dark Mystic abilities, Ben and the others would have sense and noticed.” Chase explained that if he used magic that Earth Ponies can’t do, even more so Dark Mystic magic, they would have learn who he was; Shadow Dragon.

“Oh, right. Heh-heh, makes sense.” Tech nervously chuckled in seeing that maybe Chase thought ahead of that situation.

“Once more, I couldn’t risk fighting Kilik because he of the Dvapara-Yuga, the sacred mirror would have burn my fur if it felt my corrupted darkness. Even if he didn’t wear it, he could still tap into its pure element in his attacks.” Chase stated in thinking deeply in knowing that Kilik was the opponent, fighting him is one matter that’s too risky if his mirror that’s purity eliminates corrupted beings. “Which is why, it was better to fight and lose with some dignity than blow my cover.” He issued that he rather look like he lost in a fair battle than risk exposure to blowing the mission.

“Got’cha, smooth and sly, Chase.” Tech smiled off in commenting Chase for being so crafty. “Besides, Kilik can’t think of you as someone not to trust now.” Tech smiled in thinking they now have this in the bag, or so it’s thought.

“Wrong, even though Guildenstern stated it, do you even think you would trust his words if they were true or deceitful?” Chase stated that even the creepy brainiac of the Dark Mystics spoke up to say Chase was not someone the ponies shouldn’t trust, when after knowing the guy’s character; trusting his words is about as easy as catching fleas.

“Ahh…Good point.” Tech slowly responded in thinking that Chase made a good point, Guildenstern’s personality and such make him very hard to know what he’s thinking & a bad guy defending an innocent bystander than deceiving others makes it more suspicious.

“He almost had me….And the only way to fool him is that I’m just an ordinary pony with luck. And the last thing I want is that sacred mirror to trigger my Element of Darkness to react. Light & Darkness are eternal & powerful than any Elements.” Chase explained off the matter of when Kilik almost had him, but managed to keep an appearance that he is nothing special while having avoided matters about Kilik’s sacred mirror.

“Boy, would have been bad if he tried to kill you.” Tech sighed off to say this about what almost happened to Chase if Kilik was going i for the kill.

“True. But hopefully, with Ben’s loyalty & naivety, I should be safe for now.” Chase exclaimed to say this in being certain of such things.

“What’s next?” Tech asked off in what they do.

“Find the Mystic Shield. It doesn’t seem to be here.” Chase stated off to look, as they aren’t finding the target around here.

“Well, it’s just a spell, right?” Tech shrug off to lightly exclaim the idea.

“Spell? Yes…perhaps the reason why the shield managed to repel Grimmore & his attacks was because it was enhanced & reinforced by a Mystic Crystal’s power.” Chase thought this out for a moment, realizing, the Mystic Shield is a spell made for a certain reason.

“And that would be?” Tech raised an eyebrow in even his smart brain, isn’t wise enough to follow along.

“From what our intelligence reported. The shield was powered by powerful Laser Cannons…a Shield Defense Cannon from the Mystic Realm. The one Tao used was merely a small defense spell before being powered by a Mystic Crystal’s energy to help weaken Grimmore’s attacks in a hope to weaken him. Even after he was sealed & banished by the Mystic Avatar.” Chase explained off the matter of what was an old history recall of how things went just as the Mystic Shield came into being.

“So…where does that lead us? Is it at your pop’s place?” Tech asked off in making a wild guess if Chase’s father had the means to hid the shield.

“Fool, he maybe old, but he knows that would be a likely place to be targeted. The only way to get in is a Mystic Soldier would need to enter it.” Chase excluded off to say this on the subject of breaking into his father’s place is no simple task.

“Ooh! I might help get us in! One Techbot in a Mystic Soldier suit, will…” Tech was about to explain his corny idea of dressing a bot as a Mystic Pony Soldier to get them entry when…

“No, that won’t be necessary. For they may expect us to try to infiltrate & attack when we believe we can’t find the source here. But to perform a spell this complex & to elude us. They may have developed a central beacon for the cannons; a Core, to help make the Mystic Shield stay active.” Chase explained off the case of what was lightly a way of turning their focus from one way & back at another. “Now tell me….what of the areas you checked?” Chase asked off in changing the subject now.

“Oh right, well I check those here, but my tech can’t find any Mystic objects in them. The only areas left are…” Tech was stating that there was no sign of the Mystic Shield in the areas he check, but the last place to try is…

“Mine…” Chase cuts off to say in knowing full well, he has the last ones to check and see to what he seeks. “Then you shall await back at my place until I’ve become certain that what I find is the real spot for the Mystic Shield. Or in this case…where the central Core unit that keeps it activated is located in.” Chase order that this time, he will make sure that he finds what they are looking for without fail.

“Got it!” Tech saluted in having been told this and shall follow through.

Soon Tech quickly leaves the area while Chase also leaves to return to the outside part of the market. Nobody notice what he was doing which is fine with him. Now Chase prepares to check the last areas in question toes if any of them…is where the Mystic Shield is hidden. And with that, everything goes dark at this time with many questions to wonder for this mystery of what will happen next…

---------------------

At this time, the gang had already said their goodbyes to prepare to head home for the night…But Twilight, Spike, Nyx, Phobos & Starlight saw Ben was feeling a bit under the weather; especially over the whole ‘Chase’ case again.

“Ben, are you alright? You have to understand, Kilik was only worrying for you about the future dangers.” Twilight exclaimed to speak to her love with worry.

“I know Twilight, but…it’s just that Chase has been with us for almost three years! He saved me & us! He even helped me get Nyx back from the Demon Successors.” Ben pointed off in mentioning these things about what Chase has done to help them.

“Wait? That happened? I can only remember Drago?” Phobos questioned the topic of Chase helping them against such enemies; funny, he doesn’t have a good memory of it.

“Clearly you forgot when Drago smack you pretty hard on the head.” Spike pointed out what Phobos forgot due to a cause he suffered from.

“Not only that, Chase helped save you from Drago when he snuck into the Gauntlet of Fire to almost barbecue both you & Rarity!” Ben pointed off to remind Twilight about what happened during another event.

“But daddy, you know that Kilik would never do anything to hurt those that are innocent. Remember when he helped us during the Day of the Moon?” Nyx exclaimed to remind her father of something that Kilik is not someone that was being mean or being an awful friend; not after one of their old adventures.

“And did you forget who helped him when he was a victim of his own nightmare? Ben…it was you, you helped him when Fanged Dahlia’s evil nightmare turn our fear to bind us.” Twilight pointed out how Ben helped Kilik when he was in trouble, Ben didn’t want to abandon a friend.

Ben stopped from his upset grief moment to look wide eye surprise. He does remember, during Fanged Dahlia, Kilik was a victim & Ben went into the guy’s mind to free him while seeing the horrors now young colt should ever experience. The loss of his home, fellow friends, even a family member who sacrifice their own being to save Kilik in knowing; he was worth saving. And since then, Kilik has always been on a path to help others & stop any evil from pledging their world.

“Oh man…I completely forgot…now I feel like a jerk.” Ben sighs off in feeling a bit bad for what he was doing, he let his temper get him a bit.

“Ben, we all know Chase doesn’t even have any magic or powers…but maybe just because he’s uniquely different doesn’t mean we should judge him too quickly.” Starlight spoke off to say this in what was on her mind. “Maybe he’s like me, misunderstood. Chase risked everything to save you.” She pointed this out that perhaps, they simply have yet to fully understand Chase.

“Starlight’s right, we forgot that a warrior like him prefers to be alone because of his past he feels he isn’t ready to share. I suppose friends should honor other friends’ wishes for privacy until they feel ready to talk. I should know that because I was one of them.” Twilight smiled in stating this obvious fact while knowing full well, about when it came time to open up to let other friends in on one’s secrecy.

“You mean when you didn’t open up about Ben when you lost him, & when you did, it felt good having your friends to listen.” Spike pointed this off in reminding Twilight of her own fault.

“Exactly Spike.” Twilight nodded off lightly on what Spike said.

“Well, thanks Twily. For understanding…And I’m sorry if I threw a little tantrum.” Ben nods to sigh in being thankful in what Twilight said to him.

“Little being some understatement. Ow!” Phobos mutters off about Ben’s temper-tantrum while getting whack by Nyx.

“Ssshh…” Nyx hushed her pet pal to not say that.

“Of course I understand. Just remember, Kilik was not trying to hurt Chase, you know he was cautious to think about all of us in noticing similarities, nothing more.” Twilight exclaimed to remind this for Ben to understand more clearly.

“Yeah, I’m sorry. I’ll tell him that next time I see him.” Ben nodded off to lightly know when he should admit he was way off.

“Maybe tomorrow, it’s very late.” Starlight pointed out they save such things in the morning, it’s already late.

Everyone was in agreement as they were nearing Rainbow Castle. Everyone was soon off to bed now to rest up for what tomorrow may bring.

----------------------

Meanwhile, we soon find a strange area that was during some dark part of the night, and there was…a circus being done. That’s right, there were lights, flashes, and loud crowd cheering as far as the eye could see, or hear from a faraway point. In any event, the scene focuses on someone seen coming out of the Big Top to be walking around some carts. It appeared to be a unicorn stallion with dark turquoise fur color coat, gray dark blue slightly mess mane & wild flow tail, and emerald color eyes. He is seen as mostly physically built, appears very athletic, and looks to have a few hidden tricks up his sleeves. He is seen wearing a midnight dark/gray turquoise body suit with light violet color line marks, wearing darken gray boots in the back and hoof-shoe wear in the front. He wears reminiscent of a mantle, bearing the same color of the cloth covering his body. He wears a hood that sports a furry red crest of the back of it, and wears a gray visor of an elaborate type, with bolts on its center and secured to his head by many bands; which further accentuate his knight-like appearance. On his flank and on his outfit, marks a strange purple mask with eyeholes that seem to hide something to spring out as his Cutie Mark and issues what his talent is.” Right now, he seem to be happily minding his own business until…

“Greetings Bickslow.” A voice came from behind out cart, and as the light of the moon shine down through a red lens; it was shown to be Rufus Lore; as if appearing in a red moon light.

“Heh-heh, well-well, if it isn’t Rufus Lore!” The revealed pony named Bickslow laugh out loud maniacally and was sticking his tongue out as if sounding rejoice of who’s here.

“Well in memory of you in the past to now, that you have become quite, a performer…” Rufus spoke off in noticing the work that Bickslow has developed for himself here.

“Yah, a performer of being an excellent trapper, but hey, I’ve done extra jobs being in a circus with my skills to pay the bills.” Bickslow smiled off to let himself be known in working in an area that is both a talent while also another to pay for his living. “Isn’t that right, Baby?” He called off to anything that was near to respond to his statement there.

“Yeah, Yeah!” Then suddenly appearing around Bickslow were five floating tiki heads made of wood, and are reminiscent of tribal totems, each possessing a colored face and little wooden wings at their sides.

“Oh, Seith Magic, another form of magic that can use Human Possession.” Rufus spoke off in seeing what was before him was another ability that Bickslow can do. “My memory recalls that you can cast to seal wandering souls inside objects & manipulate them as you wish.” He knows this form of magic, Seith Magic, that can perform such ways and they follow whoever the caster is.

“I like to call them my dolls, but they are my buddies in which get me out of tight stitches.” Bickslow smiled off in issuing that he and his buddies are an awesome bunch through and through.

“Tight stitches! Tight stitches!” The dolls responded off in stating this in agreement.

“To get on to business, I’m here to recruit you for a mission…a task by which even the Royal Sisters of Canterlot need you skills.” Rufus humbly spoke in getting down to business of his appearance to find Bickslow in the first place.

“Seriously? You hear that guys, we’re famous!” Bickslow smiled off widely in talking to his dolls that heard the news.

“Oh, yeah! Famous!” The dolls responded off in sounding all excited upon the news.

“So, what is it that they need?” Bickslow look to Rufus in pondering what Celestia & Luna need of him.

“Do you know about a trap type spell called: Element Blackout Alchemy?” Rufus asked off if Bickslow knows of the spell he speaks about.

“Keh-haaah! Know it? As if I wouldn’t know it!” Bickslow laughed off with his tongue held out in finding that somewhat laughable if he knows that certain spell or not. “And, what about it?” He look to Rufus in being curious of why he was asked such a question.

“An old recent event happened some time ago in the past, where the Dark Mystics used that spell to shut down some elements of heroes in a trap. They would have won if not undone.” Rufus explained the case calmly in what nearly happened to those that were almost sunk in that trap if they were not saved in the last second or so.

“That spell is only effective as long as no one knows how to cancel it or takes out the user, else they’ll have their elements shutoff a whole day.” Bickslow explained off the case in knowing how serious that particular trap type spell works out.

“While I have memory of the spell and can be safe from it, you are also safe since it would not work…for the one is the Wielder to the Element of Traps.” Rufus smiled off to state that he is fine, and so is Bickslow, for he holds an element that is very special against such trap-type spells.

“Heh-Hahah! You got that right, baby!” Bickslow laughed off again with his tongue in being praise by such means.

“Right, right!” The dolls cheered off to repeat that sentence statement.

“Then all I am asking is that you help us with something that can expose what maybe….someone targeting the Mystic Shield.” Rufus spoke in narrowing his eyes in speaking with a more serious face about what they need Bickslow for.

“Interesting. It’s caught my interest.” Bickslow replied off in finding what he’’s heard to be an interesting case. “Yosh! Then I’ll help out whatever and whenever I can!” He smiled to happily say that he’ll help out in whatever work he needs to do.

“That’s right! Yeah-Yeah!” The dolls replied off in saying that they help too.

“Heh-heh, truly you are amusing for a performer!” Rufus laughs a little under breath at seeing how Bickslow can make some find him funny, especially with his Dolls. “Then let us return…we have much to plan out.” He stated in knowing they need to return now to plan out their course of action.

“I’m looking forward to it, right, baby.” Bickslow smiled again in saying he’ll be looking to it, and check his Dolls on their thoughts.

“Yeah!” The dolls replied off to hover around in agreeing on the term.

The scene begins to darken with Rufus & Bickslow preparing to leave the circus area. The two are going to head back to get things ready for knowing that it’ll be for the sake of the Mystic Shield AND to catch something that doesn’t add up. How are things gonna go from there, we’ll have to stay tune to find out.

----------

Meanwhile, hidden within the Everfree Forest, where two characters; Lelouch & Celtic. The witch seem to use a crystal ball in showing them something of what was occurring…

“So…Kilik, Rufus, & now Bickslow are entering the picture. Well, to be honest, I don’t like it. It looks like I’m gonna have to deal with them.” Lelouch exclaimed off in feeling like three Element Wielders might cause a problem for them if left uncheck…

"Lelouch; that would attract the attention, especially ‘him’. We were specifically told not to interfere & when the time came, to let Grimmore do his part.” Celtic strictly remind this guy of what they are to do, not to get any attention on themselves.

"Grimmore shouldn’t be able to sense me. It was made to believe I'm gone. And that would be it.” Lelouch smirked off lightly to say this in believing that Grimmore won’t know he’s around; for the time being.

"He almost on me.” Celtic exclaimed in recalling the events from the Time Loop case from Starlight trying to change time.

“True. He thought you're Mystic Pony. He shouldn't recognize you….yet. Let's go.” Lelouch issued

The two vanished from sight, what was their story, it’s nothing but a dark blur that covers the screen, ending things as they stand…
> Chapter 04: The Destruction of The Mystic Shield
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 04: The Destruction of The Mystic Shield


The scene opens up to where Chase was walking around the outskirts of Ponyville and was near the Everfree Forest. But upon his own purpose to walk, or scout the area, he notices Pinkamena and her group consisting of Golden Heart, Jack Zen, Omega, Sombra, and Autumn Gem. While at the time being, Havis and Hikari are still looking over the capsules and such back at the Secret Dungeon. Chase considers to approach to see what the group was doing by simply greeting them, but then he trends carefully upon noticing a large claw foot out of the forest. Upon Chase’s slow gaze to study, the claw belong to a huge Dragon that was keeping itself conceal by the trees.

“Eep!” Tech yelped from following Chase to keep himself hidden by the buildings in Ponyville, freaking out quietly and covering his mouth to not scream as fear of letting what’s there see him.

“Good boy…” Pinkamena smiled in petting the Dragon’s claw as if treating it like it was…her pet.

“I hope I’m not interrupting.” Suddenly, a voice cuts everyone off from what they are doing to look and see Chase the Warrior was approaching them.

“Oh Chase, we didn’t notice you were here.” Goldie replied off in seeing this guy show up now.

“Miss….is that a Dragon that’s hiding itself?” Chase asked off in looking at the strange dragon hidden within the Everfree Forest to conceal much of its size as possible with little success.

“He’s not just ‘A’ Dragon, Chase! But a Kirin! Hope you’re not too startled!” Pinkamena responded to say in smiling in introducing her Dragon pet pal to Chase.

“On the contrary, I’m used to seeing many large creatures & giants in my times of journeying…but never before have my eyes lay upon this creature.” Chase replied off in studying this creature as it was nothing surprising to see a large Dragon or that of a giant, but it is a first time for a Kirin species.

“Hugh. I suppose it be much better if he was smaller.” Pinkamena thought up to say in suddenly realizing that major point. “Say Azure, could you make yourself the size of a pony please, just for a while?” She asked that the guy shrink down for her to make it easier to mingle than being so large.

“(Hmmm…very well, if I must.)” Azure spoke off in a strange language that only few could understood it.

Soon Azure’s body glows in a little bright light as Chase covers his eyes for a brief moment. As the light fades and then Chase uncovers his eyes, notices that the large Dragon is not up, and from looking down sees something else. It look like Azure, but he was between a hybrid of a Pony while having characteristics of a Dragon; A Pony Dragon Hybrid as some could call this image form upon seeing it.

“Interesting. Pony Dragon…such a sub species not many come across…I thought they were but mere legends of old.” Chase responded off in being calm in studying & feeling slightly surprise to see what Azure is. “Once more, he speaks in the fluent Dragon’s Tongue: Thuum Dovah Vun.” He responded in knowing about such a language that certain Dragons use to communicate.

“You know that language?” Jack Zen raised an eyebrow in never guessing this pony knew how to speak another language.

“I have come across learning what I need to help me in my training to become a warrior.” Chase explained the case in using what he knows to help he get around.

Soon Azure lightly approaches Chase in being about the same size as a pony as he was about to meet and greet with him.

“(I…am Azure Draco Dragon. It seems you are somewhat a warrior that I’ve heard recently about.)” Azure spoke off in his Dragon Tongue in getting to meet Chase for the first time. “(Hmm…?)” He raised an eyebrow in finding something strange to earn his attention off of Chase.

Just then, Azure leans a bit closer to Chase and begins to sniff him, much to anyone’s surprise by what the Pony Dragon was doing. But just then, Azure’s eyes snap wide, lets off a low growl to open his wings and leans low as if about to pounce, Chase recognizes this as a battle stance and also narrow his eyes to get into a battle position as if to expect a fight. 

“Woo, easy Azure, easy boy…” But just then, Pinkamena cuts in to pet Azure’s head which she was doing to slowly get him to take it easy. Azure looks to Pinkamena and then stops growling before closing his eyes to sigh in being calm down, but didn’t seem to let off from being ready to attack. “This is strange.” Pinkamena pondered off in witnessing this act that befuddled her.

“What is strange, if I may ask,” Chase raised an eyebrow in having heard this to catch his interest.

“Well he only reacts like that when evil creatures are around. It’s like either an enemy is nearby or near you.” Pinkamena stated to say this while in a bit of confusion at the time.

“Hmmm?” Chase narrow his eyes at the precautions Dragon Pony, first Ben’s Lens of Truth & now a Kirin that senses evil off him, he’ll need to make an excuse here. “It might be some old scents of old enemies I’ve fought, some of their blood may have mix with my fur. Perhaps that is what cause his reaction to me.” Chase closed his eyes to issue this off as a stern serious matter that Azure’s reaction might be from what Chase couldn’t wash off.

“I…guess.” Pinkamena slowly replied off in thinking that could be the answer.

“Now if you’ll excuse me, I best be off. Perhaps I’ll have to try harder to remove the scent of evil off of me.” Chase spoke in saying he must leave now, seeing that perhaps his presence upsets the Kirin, he best leave to not cause a scene.

Soon Chase bids farewell to Goldie’s group, but Azure keeps watching Chase leave to go back into Ponyville. While Chase maybe gone, Goldie & the gang saw Azure was letting off a little low growl.

“What’s wrong with Azure? Chase just explain that it was likely scents from an evil enemy’s blood.” Golden Heart raised an eyebrow in seeing that Azure was acting weird even with Chase gone like he was an enemy.

“(I sense something, like he’s looking for something. Something very important.)” Azure spoke in his Dragon Tongue in issuing this that Pinkamena followed.

“Chase is searching for something important?” Pinkamena raised an eyebrow in having been told of what Azure said to her.

“What could he be looking for, the only major thing important I could think about…would be the Mystic Shield.” Jack Zen rolled his eyes to say while making a sarcastic joke of the only important thing that can be look for in Ponyville.

“You forget, WE don’t even know where that is? The Mystics hid it somewhere without telling anyone.” Golden Heart pointed out that they don’t know where the shield is either, the Mystics hid it without telling anyone.

“(Mistress, what if that’s what Chase is seeking? He was searching for something before coming across us.)” Azure spoke in his Dragon Tongue to explain the case that maybe Chase’s target…was the Mystic Shield.

“Wait! Chase is seeking the Mystic Shield?” Pinkamena replied off shock in understanding what the Kirin was saying.

That made some of Goldie’s group become a bit shock to believe, Chase was seeking the Mystic Shield’s location? Tech who was hidden overheard what was said about what Chase might be doing, and from freaking out, runs off.

“Wait Azure, are you saying Chase is after the shield & the evil scent you found might be…?” Pinkamena was trying to put together all the dots before it slowly was starting to come a bit together. “Well then again, many of our new friends we met suspected Chase from some way of thinking he couldn’t be trusted!” She stated in having the feeling some ponies that were Element Users and strong warriors didn’t trust Chase from first sight.

“But….if he’s with any of our enemies and if the Mystic Shield is destroyed…all of the evil forces will attack and then….” Autumn Gem speaking in feeling concern, worried, & scared, she was on the verge to nearly cry until Sombra comes up to comfort her.

“Autumn Gem, my love, we can’t let fear control us…I know what the evil forces will do, but we can’t give in yet.” Sombra spoke every calm word to help ease Autumn Gem while feeling her warm embrace of a hug.

“Okay, we need a plan. Goldie, Omega, you come with me and we can alert the Mystics, the Princesses, the ponies about the danger.” Pinkamena spoke off in getting together a plan to help out in case of trouble. “Jack Zen, Autumn Gem, & Sombra, do the same with the civilians & get them to shelter, if any are willing to fight, then be sure to help them. Find Fila who's shopping to help too.” She explained the second part of what their other group should do in the meantime.

Everyone who heard the plan be mention were nodding their heads in understanding what they need to do here.

“(Allow me to help, I can help by you time.)” Azure spoke in his Dragon Tongue in offering to give aid to the group.

“Alright Azure, try to do what you can if things get messy. We have to keep that shield from being destroyed.” Pinkamena replied off in allowing Azure to do what they can at least. “And if worse comes to it, we’ll need to be prepared if the Mystic Shield is destroyed.” She stated that in some way they need to brace for if the worse truly happens.

“(Understood.)” Azure nodded to usher this off in his Dragon Tongue just before he flaps his wings to take off into the skies; and shall trail Chase from faraway to be unseen.

“Alright, Omega, send out a signal to those in the Secret Dungeon, give the Code: Light Emergency!” Pinkamena told her bot friend to get ready for something in a form of a coded message.

“Understood.” Omega responded off to say while his optic eyes blink in patching through a signal to reach Havis & Hikari in the Secret Dungeon below Sugarcube Corner.

“War may be nearing, but we best be ready. We’ll have a surprise for in store for when some evil forces come near.” Pinkamena silently whispered to herself to matter of what they’ll be doing if it gets rough, then they may have to bring in…some secret weapon.

With that, everyone begins to scatter while everything goes dark at this time. Time is ticking, and if they are not ready, Equestria will be facing a great overbalance on their hands pretty soon….

---------------

At the time within Canterlot Castle, it was already pass the part of when day turn to night when the sun went down & the moon rose up. Celestia & Luna were awaiting in the throne room in preparing to do their duty. But just then, something of an illusion of an image appeared out of nowhere, and it was…

“Rufus…” The Royal Sisters responded in seeing who has appeared before them…or rather, a Memory Image of Rufus.

“I’m making this message brief, you must get a message out to the Mane Six.” Rufus issued forth to explain the matter at hand here of needing the Mane six group, pronto.

“A message, but they are all asleep by now.” Celestia stated that at this hour of the night, everyone’s mostly asleep.

“I can get into their dreams & wake them up Tia.” Luna stated in knowing what she can do to help waken their friends in dreamland.

“I’ve already recruited Bickslow & we’re on our way to the location.” Rufus stated off in mentioning that he got the one he was looking for and the two are on the way.

“Wait, what location?” Celestia responded off in finding that a bit puzzling to her now; Rufus couldn’t mean what she thinks he means.

“I have memory of where the Mystics hid the shield.” Rufus stated off in simply saying he knows where the Mystic Shield is located.

“You do? But how?” Luna yelped in being surprised, how did Rufus knew when that secret was only between the Royal Sisters and the Mystics.

“From your memories of course, I projected them when Mystic Tao told you where they would hid the shield.” Rufus issued off in simply stating how he managed to find out, thanks to these two.

The Royal Sisters were surprised, Rufus managed to learn the secret from seeing into their memories of what they were thinking; crafty if not clever. So Rufus was already being a few steps ahead of everyone else to get things ready.

“But for now, we’ve met across another pony who said he saw the one…Chase act strange. That’s why time is crucial for this part to work.” Rufus stated off to say that they need to act, for the hour is nearly at hand, they got another ally & are going to be working.

“Understood, we shall meet you there.” Celestia nodded off in having been told this message and they shall meet up.

“We must hurry, if the shield is lost, so is Ponyville’s defense.” Luna issued with a stern face of knowing what they are almost about to face.

“Then without warning, the Royal Sisters took off with Luna become like dust and Celestia flapping her wings off into the sky. The race is on and whoever is quicker maybe the winner in what happens to the Mystic Shield.

-------------

The scene begins to open towards Ponyville where there was an abandon rundown pinkish factory with a shield logo on it as it read ‘Shield Hearts Toys & Candy Shop Factory’ on the front. Apparently, it was some toy & candy manufacturing facility. But right now, the scene was zooming in from who was seen walking from underneath a street lamp & it was none other than Chase. As he was seen scooping out the place in question to get a feel for it, & it was here…he felt something weak, but…mystical…was below this place.

“So, this was where those Mystics hid their precious shield…in an old abandon Shield Toy & Candy facility.” Chase muttered off in seeing how the shield the Mystics developed was soon hidden in.

Chase soon approached the factory in seeing that this was a pretty good cover up to hide something so important by placing it not to conspicuous or with much guards patrolling.

“If I had to guess, Laxtinct probably came up with this ridiculous idea, the last place anyone would think to find the Mystic Shield would be in such a random place.” Chase rolled his eyes in thinking random folks like Laxtinct & Pinkie Pie could put the Mystic Shield in a place that had the word ‘shield’ on the front where none think otherwise.

Now Chase goes up to open the doors to the place before entering it. But he never saw a shadow lurking above that landed on the ground outside.

“Grrr…” A growl noise from something tailing Chase is heard while we soon see that it push open the doors to enter to in seeking the one entering the factory.

Soon within the factory, everything was left in an unusable state of where nothing was working. But Chase went pass the toys & candy stuff & soon found a stairway leading down to a secret compound area. Upon arriving in some underground room with some stair rails around the walls, within the center was a sight to be seen….the Mystic Shield. The target was glowing a golden radiance to which it was still active to keep the shield up to protect Ponyville from evil enemy invaders.

“At long last, I have found what I needed. The Mystic Shield…” Chase stated to say before he leaps off the rails to land from a height on the ground before the target. “With it gone, nothing will stand against those of us that wish to conquer this area & all of Equestria.” He stated in seeing this was the chance to obtain what he & the forces of evil are striving for, with the destruction of the shield, it’s their win.

Before Chase was about to approach the Mystic Shield, something flew overhead to land before the guy in blocking his path. From what Chase was seeing, it was none other than Azure in his Pony Dragon form as he leans low in a battle position & lets off a little growling noise.

“I won't let you near this!” Azure spoke in plain English for Chase to understand to not allow him near the shield.

“I see...so, you can talk in the simple language after all.” Chase raised an eyebrow in being curious that Azure can speak clear English as well.

“I can talk & even chew you with my mouth at the same time!” Azure remarked off to say this as a form of a threat.

“So you were the one I felt was following me. Well done, now step aside.” Chase lightly smiled in seeing that he felt something was tailing him, but commanded the hybrid step aside or else.

“You’re not getting by me!” Azure snapped off to say that he won’t let this guy through on his life.

Suddenly, Azure started to attack first by breathing out flames from his mouth. Chase, in having experience in having fought Dragons, dodge that but Azure just flew around quickly to fire another fire breath attack. However, Chase used the Reversing Mirror to reflect the attack back at the Pony Dragon Hybrid, which knock Azure back a bit. From recovering, Azure was about to attack again, but then some light blue flower petals were thrown & were swirling around; Chase was using some form of magic to make the strange flowers appear. Azure was about to attack until he felt his body becoming paralyzed to drop in his tracks.

“Grrrough….what…did you do?” Azure groans to say in feeling himself becoming weaken without warning.

“While you maybe a feared & powerful Dragon, there is one thing that can affect you…Weeping Dragon Flowers.” Chase explained from having used something on the Pony Dragon Hybrid that has affected his body. “They’ll paralyze your body to a state in which breathing them makes you go numb.” He explained in having done this to Azure that he’ll be unable to do much of anything.

“Grrrr…you’re lucky I’m only in this form, otherwise….” Azure growls in fury that if he was a Kirin, he be harder to handle.

“You’ll be too paralyzed to speak much either, be it this form or another, the results won’t change, so save what little you have for now.” Chase remarked off that in any case, the Kirin would have drop to the Weeping Dragon Flowers.

“Why…would you…do this?” Azure spoke off to ask why Chase is doing this.

“There is no reason…only orders.” Chase stated off that he’s doing this because he’s order to.

“Even so, would someone you…truly cherish want you to…do this?” Azure spoke off in bringing up the subject here in the conversation.

Chase glared at Azure as if he was starting to drive his patience very thin all of a sudden. It sounded like this Kirin wanted him to feel guilty over his action, but such matters mean nothing to him.

“You can come out now Tech.” Chase called out in noticing that Tech was hiding from above before having heard his name called.

“Heh-Ahah, good job taming the Dragon, Chase!” Tech laughed off in giving the guy compliment in having subdue the Kirin.

“He won’t be that way for long, we need to end & destroy this shield once & for all.” Chase gaze up to tell Tech this issue about destroying the shield before this Kirin starts to get in their way again.

“Right…” Tech stated off to come down & soon approach the Mystic Shield; time to get down to business here. “The army’s outside, once this baby goes down, they come charging in!” Tech bragged out in what was gonna happen next pretty soon once they take down the shield; they raid Ponyville.

“Chase?” Suddenly, a voice of which match Ben’s voice was heard from a distance.

That’s when Chase turn around, so did Tech & even the paralyzed Azure. From above them by the entrance where they came, the Mane Six along with Ben, Nyx, Spike, Phobos, Starlight Glimmer, & Goldie’s crew of Pinkamena, Omega, & Jack Zen are seen. They have arrived on the scene to notice something going down & truly what they see is a shock to see. Of course even Chase along with Tech are surprised, as they were not aware that Luna woke up the group to meet at this area where the Mystic Shield was in danger.

“Oh my goodness! Azure, what happened to you?” Pinkamena asked off in seeing her tough little Pony Dragon was down for some reason.

“It was…grrrr…” Azure was snarling off in looking towards where Chase and Tech are, stating who’s to blame.

“Um…” Tech look nervous in thinking their undercover mission is over, or was it…

“As you can see, this Dark Mystic infiltrated this area & subdue this Dragon while planning to destroy this shield.” Chase spoke off to take the situation in his hand to make a false claim.

“HUGH? TECH!” The Mane Six, Spike, Phobos & Nyx responded in being stun shock, wimpy Tech took down a Kirin; is that possible with is body structure.

"As a pony that once did bad things in the past, even I have a hard time believing this!" Starlight Glimmer stated to say that even she from what bad things she did, can't believe that Tech of all enemies was performing such things.

“Hay, it can happen!” Tech snapped off in feeling like nobody took that seriously; but notice the frowns glaring at him. “Oh right, still being suspected!” He yelped in seeing that since he’s the only ‘bad guy’ in the room, Chase is making up a story to not be expose.

“But how could he take down Azure?” Jack Zen asked off in thinking that taking down a Kirin seem next to impossible to do.

“He used this to repel its attack back & Weeping Dragon Flowers to paralyze the mighty creature.” Chase reveal the Reversing Mirror & the blue flower petals in stating the evidence HE secretly used & put the blame on Tech in which even THAT mama’s colt couldn’t have any trouble.

“The Reversing Mirror!” Rarity gasped off in recognizing that item seen.

“Oh my, that’s a Mystic Weapon!” Fluttershy yelped in recalling what type of weapon that is.

“As in the same bunch we saw in the Mystic Realm with those Total Drama guys?” Pinkie Pie pointed off in recalling that some of the Total Drama Players once had dibs in using the Mystic Weapons, etc. when they were here.

“Yeah Pinkie, exactly like that.” Rainbow Dash lightly nodded her head in stating her random friend was correct.

“How’d Tech even obtain it?” Applejack rub her head in being lost, how’d Tech even snatch a powerful Mystic Weapon type to begin with.

“It doesn’t matter, for now, he’s already told me that an army of Dark Mystics is outside; we need to stop them. I’ll tie up this prisoner.” Chase shook his head in stating that they must attend to business at hand & deal with the Dark Mystics outside while he deals with Tech here; no problem even for him.

“Oh boy, I see where this is going.” Tech groans to feel that while Chase ties him up, the other heroes leave to deal with the Dark Mystic army before Chase then goes & destroys the shield, as nobody will see it coming.

“Well done, Chase the Warrior.” Suddenly, another character appeared in which it was Rufus Lore across the rail of steps from the others.

“Rufus?” Golden Heart spoke off in seeing his friend was here too when this situation was underway.

“What! The famous Minstrel Who Sings under The Red Moon…who can even fight Ultimate Warrior Rank Fighters? Nobody said he was here!” Tech yelped out in seeing this, Rufus is a powerful Element User that even give their best Dark Mystic forces a difficult time.

“Rufus Lore…” Chase repeated off in looking up with his narrow eyes; they were not told about Rufus Lore showing up, & knowing about this masked minstrel’s abilities could be a problem.

“I’m amazed you have Memory of me, 'New' Chase.” Rufus smiled off to say while looking over this situation.

“New Chase?” The baby Dragons repeated off in how Rufus was talking to Chase, saying he was…new?

“What does he mean?” Nyx asked off in not understanding that term of addressing someone.

“I have a memory of when there was another Chase long ago, 500 years ago, when there was almost a time of peace between Equestrians & Mystics.” Rufus spoke forth in bringing up a tale of long ago that caught everyone’s attention now. “But the peace was ruin, by one who fell in love with someone engage to a wicked prince…the one called Chase.” He sadly closed his eyes in issuing that one pony brought a downfall of that manner that ruin collaboration.

That brought a lot of questions to which as Chase listen to this, he started to show narrow eyes at Rufus. The masked minstrel that wasn’t there when the event happened that he was involved made it sound like Rufus Lore really was there, but hidden in plain sight to know about such a history.

“Rufus, what are you saying?” Ben asked off in wondering what it was that Rufus is even talking about.

“It is as said, he has taken the name, Chase, when there hasn’t been one in over 500 years since Dragon Hope used it.” Rufus pointed out the current Chase of today, has taken the alias name used by only one pony & that was Dragon Hope.

“Dragon Hope?” The Mane Six & Ben repeated in having heard that name as Dragon Hope of the past became Shadow Dragon of the present.

“My Memory states that you unlock the Lens of Truth, did you not Ben?” Rufus look to Ben in recalling that the stallion has brought about a new item as of recently.

“Right here, why?” Ben responded off to summon the Lens of Truth, but was not certain why yet…

“I Memorized the Reversing Mirror to know its abilities, it reverses any effect. An attack at the attacker, a heavy object into being as light as a feather & once more…to undo a function of an object.” Rufus stated with a serious voice that the Reversing Mirror can reverse the effect back or undo any effect from an object or person.

"Reverse effect, like as in....keep illusions conceal from being exposed?" Starlight Glimmer stated this off in shock to realize, what this meant if the Reversing Mirror was on the spot with the Lens Of Truth.

“But that would mean…when Ben saw Chase through that lens after the CMC did…” Spike was suddenly thinking back towards earlier yesterday in what happen when they saw Chase through the Lens Of Truth.

“Hay now, are you saying that Chase had the Reversing Mirror on hand before Tech did?” Phobos asked off in trying to understand who had the Reversing Mirror first to reverse an effect.

“Um, hello! I’m still here!” Tech waved out in feeling ignored by everyone in the room.

“Chase, what’s really going on here?” Ben looked at the guy in wanting an answer, there are too many facts being used against Chase to say that he’s not innocent & he’s playing a part in some diabolical matter.

“You must trust me Ben, something is afoot here. Someone is trying to set a trap here.” Chase spoke in trying to get Ben to listen to him, trying to say something to buy him time & make certain that he’s not to be treated as a suspect.

“Heh-Hahah! You got that right, baby!” Then another voice was heard yelling out in excitement that surprised everyone before finding…Bickslow leaping over to land near Rufus. “ELEMENT BLACKOUT ALCHEMY!” Then he stomps his hooves on the ground hard for the next part to come in preparing this spell.

Then without warning, a large purple light with the black-star-shaped & a symbol of Darkness in Chinese was forge in the center from where Chase was dead center it. As dark surge of electrical energy emerge from the ground to surge through the bodies to shock any Element User in that place. Those that have once witness this action yelped with fear in seeing someone has used this & now they’ll be effected as well.

“Eek! This spell is…” Fluttershy squealed in fright in seeing what was happening here that has finished taking effect.

“Oh no! Chase was right! An enemy has done something to us & shut off our elements!” Pinkie Pie yelped in thinking that they are now doom without warning.

“Wait! We did? I know I’m never involved with Dark Curse or the Demon Generals plotting, but even I shouldn’t have been skip out on this.” Tech replied off puzzled in having heard this for the first time, especially using this spell out of nowhere.

"Justl ike what I used on Ben and Pinkamena in Merchant Town." Starlight said, recalling when this happened when she was a bad pony.

"You mean when you were dressed up as the Equalizer and used a stone given to you by Amon Blood to shut off our elements, only for that stone to be destroyed by Arsenal the Arms Stallion?" Pinkamena ask with an arch of the eybrow.

"Yeah, that's the case."

“Wait, something’s different. This spell hasn’t affected us.” Twilight stated in noticing, that no one has had their elements shutdown.

“Nor me.” Pinkamena stated in feeling fine on her side.

“Me either.” Ben stated that his Lens of Truth is still around, so his element isn’t shutdown at all.

“That is because he can focus on who to target.” Rufus pointed to Bickslow in proudly stating what this guy can do.

“Who is that?” Omega asked off in not knowing who this new character is.

“The name’s Bickslow …The Element of Traps User.” Bickslow proudly introduce himself as being who he is, a stallion that holds an element to do traps.

“The Element of Traps!” Goldie yelped in having heard that, so there is another element user and he’s using this label Forbidden Spell.

“Hah-Hah! And our target was center on one guy only below!” Bickslow laugh off with his tongue in stating the real target was no one except whose down on the ground.

“Down there! Down there!” Then Bickslow’s Dolls floated around in commenting the same statement in agreement.

"Down...there?" Starlight Glimmer responded puzzled, what did the guy mean; who was the actual target?

Suddenly, all eyes were focus at the only things at the bottom where the Mystic Heart was. Tech was looking at himself & didn’t feel anything at all wrong with him. But then all eyes look to where Chase was as he was panting to hold his chest & was on his front knee as if trying to hold himself from falling. Apparently, that trap type spell work alright in effecting a target with an element & it appears to be effective on Chase the Warrior, much to the Mane Six & Golden Heart’s party in being confused by what the meaning behind this was.

“Wait, its effecting Chase!” Rainbow Dash yelped off in surprise in seeing the Element Shutdown Alchemy was working against Chase the Warrior.

“Ye mean he’s an Element User too?” Applejack asked off in seeing the evidence at its work that Chase was under the effect of a spell to target Element Users.

“But why are you only targeting him?” Rarity asked off in not understanding why those like Rufus & Bickslow are effecting only Chase.

“Because he is not of who he says he is.” Rufus stated with a serious look that this Earth stallion that has befriended everyone, is not at all whom he claims to be.

“Rrrrrugh…Uuuaarrugh…” Chase was seen struggling to which he felt as if HALF of his element power of darkness was shutdown. “This…can’t…be…” He muttered off to himself, first Rufus & now the guy that holds the element power to perform traps; even an Element Blackout Alchemy to cover him.

“HIYAAAHH/Flopwwwfruvhmmm…” Then something swoop in that was moving faster than light & reveal to be Kilik that knock the Reversing Mirror out of a distracted Chase’s grasp to fall across the floor. “Brrizizizivhhmmm…” And at that moment, Kilik lock Chase against his pole-rod & tug him close to himself & press the guy against the Dvapara-Yuga mirror that’s blue light was flashing & burning at the moment.

“GROOOAAAARRUGHHH!” Chase let off a loud scream as he was feeling something was burning off his body, which at the same time, started to react in fizzling strangely.

“Kilik!” Ben yelled out in seeing Kilik was here, but he was hurting Chase, what the heck is going on?

“Ben! Use the Lens of Truth, shine on us, quickly!” Kilik yelled out for Ben to use his magical lens to now see Chase with it without the Reversing Mirror to aid him.

Ben felt almost hesitant to do so while seeing what was happening, it was almost like everyone’s gone mad. But, despite things as they are, Ben felt like…he wanted to know the truth, the truth about who Chase really was. It may have annoyed him to invade one's privacy, but the chance seems too much not to take. And so, Ben used the Lens of Truth over a struggling Chase & Kilik to pierce through any illusion to reveal the truth. Soon the image that was once Chase the Warrior began to fade away from the Lens of Truth & replace the figure struggling against Kilik was….a SOMEONE ELSE!

“It's over, impostor, or should I say Shadow Dragon.” Rufus issued off in labeling the truth of who the enemy is thanks to Ben’s last touch.

“But Rufus... That's not Shadow Dragon. That’s actually….Herald of Melancholy!” Ben exclaimed off in shock in what he saw, that Chase was…someone else.

This puzzled the others until Ben’s Lens Of Truth cause Chase's disguise to slowly dispersed as his body slowly transformed into the form of Lelouch. And even the lens helped Ben do something to Tech as Tech's body was changing to transform into Celtic.

“Lelouch and Celtic?!” Mane Six responded off in seeing these faces.

“You've gotta be kidding me!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed in seeing who they were not happy to see.

“Boo…” Lelouch let off a slight surprise while he was kept lock by Kilik’s pole & felt the sacred mirror burning his evil flesh.

“Oy-oy….What the heck is this?!” Bickslow raised an eyebrow in seeing something fishy go on here as he sent his five tiki heads to secure & watch Celtic to keep her from moving.

“Something is amiss! This can't be him! This isn't Chase's true form!” Rufus narrow his eyes in seeing this was not who they were expecting.

“Then, where is he?! TALK YOU!” Kilik snapped off for those they have captured to explain themselves.

“Urrrgh…you’re lucky your mirror actually is hurting me enough that I find the strength to kill you harder to do.” Lelouch groans a bit from seeing this guy was lucky that his sacred mirror that held a shard of the Element of Light was hurting the guy enough to have it hard to struggle to kill the pony.

“Can somepony tell us what the heck is going on?!” Ben asked off in not figuring out, what the hay is happening here.

“Hah-hah…It's quite simple, Ben.” Lelouch laughed in amusement while ignoring the pain he’s dealing from Kilik’s mirror while still in a grip hold. “I disguised myself as Chase, per these ponies' instruction. They want to prove evidential facts that Chase was trying to destroy the Mystic Shield. And in reality, they want to get rid of him.” The guy made a random accusation about what was going on.

“Is this true?!” Ben looked to those that were in on this.

“Ben, listen to me. He's lying! We weren't trying to do that! We aim to expose a spy who pose to be someone who is not what you think he is.” Kilik spoke to have Ben listen to reason, they were not trying to get rid of Chase; they were trying to find a spy.

“And yet, you tried to frame him. Trap him to prove that he's the enemy, isn't it?” Lelouch questioned off this about what’s happening.

“Hey, you got it wrong. We only were trapping the guy that was gonna destroy the shield of which no one knows where it is.” Bickslow explained the bit of pieces of what was going on.

“Bickslow!” Rufus looked to his friend for speaking too much.

“What!?” Bickslow replied off puzzled.

“I can’t believe this. Why is it that Chase has to be the center of trouble? This is ridiculous! Someone, tell me Why?” Ben snapped off in feeling like he’;s had it, why is it that every time he turns around, Chase is becoming a victim, why?

“Ben, it’s complicated. He’s trying to attack you through your emotions.” Kilik stated in seeing what Lelouch was plotting from the guy making a hidden grin.

“Even still, I don’t think this is helping me understand what is wrong! Why do you or any other veterans feel like you don’t give Chase a chance! Just tell me why?” Ben asked off in having had it, he wants answers about what is the deal about Chase.

“Ben, it’s because…Chase…is Shadow Dragon.” Rufus implored out to simply say this as he flew near to give Ben this news.

“That’s impossible, I saw Chase help us during the Clone Six Rescue.” Ben issued off to say this in having seen both Chase & Shadow Dragon together, they can’t be the same.

“Kid, you gotta know that was a basic Clone tactic for deceiving one of who’s the enemy & friend. Even Azuma reported a sense a clone in your party.” Bickslow shook his head off in stating the truthful fact that it was a clone trick to fool one about thinking the enemy can’t be the other.

“Wha….but that can’t be! Chase was…He can’t be Shadow Dragon cause of….he’s not over a 500 years old!” Ben yelped in trying to figure out a loop of that logic, but there didn’t seem one.

“It’s true Ben, because I was there. Chase is his only alias. There weren’t many ponies that had the name.” Rufus spoke in showing up to Ben in stating this important factor, much to everyone’s shock. “Besides, I already have seen your memory. And believe in me, I would never, ever try to ask the Demon to help us to do this.” He spoke off to say this while looking to Lelouch, they would never ask someone like him to frame Chase for something; they find facts, not place trickery on someone who is truly innocent.

“We were trying to defend the Mystic Shield because that is the enemy’s target. Besides….” Kilik stated off in keeping Lelouch bind in his lock while his mirror hurts the guy to not resist. “Do you actually believe what this Herald says to be true?” He stated that someone like a Herald Of Melancholy can’t be trusted.

“I’m not sure what I believe in! But I am sick of this! It’s time to stop being played around by this game!” Ben exclaimed off in feeling upset while pointing his anger to focus on Lelouch. “Alright, start talking! What are you doing here?! What are you after? If you're after the shield, you would destroy it!” He wants answers, & if this guy was gonna destroy the shield, he would have already been done with it, so why the disguise game.

“You're right. I should have, but I'm not. I'm just here to play with you all. They did ask me nicely after all.” Lelouch smirked off to simply say this in knowing this much.

“Enough with your twisted games! Tell me what's really going on! Or else maybe you’ll change your tune with that sacred mirror itching closer to destroy you for GOOD!” Ben snapped off in fury. He has had enough of these stupid games, he want answers now!

“Fine... Sounds like you're party popper.” Lelouch rolled his eyes to sigh in knowing he’s in no place to argue when given his options. “Give you a hint. A father & son shall fight over the control of Mystic Shield. Who will be the victor? Who will be the defeater? I wonder. It's like playing chess game.” Lelouch smirked off to say this little riddle of a clue here.

“Stop with the riddles!” Ben snapped off in getting fed up with this guy.

“Wait a minute, father & son…if everyone believed Shadow Dragon was the spy, then…” Twilight thought for the moment before she gasped at what she learn. “Mr. Tao! Tao is the father to Shadow Dragon & he has the control of the Mystic Laser Canon. It powers the Mystic Shield! We have to get to Mystic Realm now!” Twilight exclaimed in having understood that hint, of what was happening.

“What?!” Ben yelped off in having heard this to be surprised.

“Tao's in trouble!” Starlight repeated off in having heard this to be shocked.

“What about Mr. Herald?!” Rainbow Dash remotely pointed to their ugly captive here.

“Uh... What Herald?!” Pinkie Pie asked off in looking back at something puzzled & random.

Suddenly, Celtic used some magic to make herself & Lelouch disappear from everyone’s sights. That made many feel concern in knowing, that is not a good thing. The two appeared outside the abandon factory in seeing they made their escape.

“Well, that was fun. I play my part already. Time for the finale. Let's see how you handle the greatest plot twist in the entire history, Ben Mare!” Lelouch made a wicked comment in looking back at the spot, he was laughing until he cringe; his body was still hurt thanks to the Element Of Light; even as a shard in a sacred mirror, it’s purity was harmful even to him to put up with.

“You shouldn't have waste time playing a fool, if I had not pulled you out, you would not survive much longer.” Celtic lectures Lelouch about his action;she had to get them out of there since they played their part.

“Whatever, lets kick back & watch the show.” Lelouch rolled his eyes in seeing they may as well enjoy what comes next.

Back with the others, they have seen the Lelouch & Celtic escape, but they have more pressing matters of concern; Tao maybe endanger…

“Come on, let's go! We have to stop Shadow Dragon!” Twilight issued off in what they gotta do.

“No tellin’ wha dat ruffian will do ta his own kin!” Applejack stated off in imaging something bad could happen.

“Let us come with you, my friends.” Kilik stated that he, Bickslow & Rufus wish to come.

“Yeah! I can set the traps for you!” Bickslow smiled off to say this while his tikis replied off ‘for you’ a bit.

“We must hurry, we can’t waste time!” Rufus stated to say this in knowing time is crucial.

“I’m sorry, but I’m not sure that’s a good idea. After everything, I just…can’t trust things unless I see with my own eyes!” Ben stated off in feeling upset & angry over having recall Lelouch & his words, if he wants to learn the truth…he must see for it himself.

Before anyone could do anything, Ben gallops off at once as he exited the entrance. Twilight & her friends looked concern & worry about him; Ben’s emotions seem to be completely lost & confused in not knowing if he should trust Chase or the others.

“I’m sorry for this. We've gotta help Mr Tao now.” Twilight told the others this about knowing Ben didn’t mean such things, but they have no time to argue.

Afterwards, Twilight & her friends left at once while Goldie’s group, Rufus, Bickslow, & Kilik remain before the Royal Sisters flew in to check on them.

“Forgive us your highnesses. It appears that the plan has come somewhat undone to lead your son astray from blind confusion that has upset & anger him.” Rufus hubby stated in seeing what was done that seem a bit out of plan.

“We know that Chase is Shadow Dragon, but it looks like he’s trying to give Ben a hard time in who to trust. The kid look ready to explode!” Bickslow rubbed the back of his head in what they saw.

“We have to try to save him as he saved to protect me from my own nightmare.” Kilik stated in knowing that they must keep Ben safe, before more trouble arises.

“I understand, but if the enemy succeeds in destroying the true core, we’ll need to defend Ponyville.” Celestia stated in feeling that if the enemy comes, they must be here to defend.

“Don’t worry…I have an eye on them.” Rufus stated to say this in showing a smile across his face.

“What do you…” Luna was about to ask that question that held a hidden mystery….

Just then, Rufus’s image began to fad out of nowhere, leaving many to ponder what was that. Could it be Rufus has left with the others, question is, why…? The scene darkens under more riddles, but hopefully answers will come to light.

-----------------

The scene changes to what is a different location, where Chase & Tech arrived at Sacred Platform within the Mystic Realm. They found several large metallic yet golden wheeled cannons aiming at the portals that led straight to the Equestria. In middle, the cannons were wiring & connecting to a large golden sphere containing pure blue energy-like within.

“Wow! They're really here!” Tech exclaimed in what they saw.

“Whoever send this letter to me, he has done the job very well.” Chase held a letter that told them about this location; how anonymous, but useful.

“Good thing, my Chameleonbots work well & knocked the Guards out.” Tech chuckled a bit while he smiled off in being proud of what he did.

“Either way, set the charges out on the cannons & Mystic Energy Sphere. Time to detonate it.” Chase issued off in what they need to do.

After a while, Chase & Tech headed off as they all set the charges on both cannons & the sphere. The charges were specially made with corruptible Dark Mystic Energy to cause a total meltdown in overloading that which has kept Equestria safe. The plan was simple: First the cannons will go in eliminating the attack of firing. Second will be the sphere, to remove that which would power up the next time the Mystics develop such things. With the cannons gone & their only source of power remove permanently, it will be all over with.

“So you did come for the canons., didn't you, my son?” Tao’s voice is heard from afar…

Suddenly, the two that were planning to leave cease their motion of escape. For Chase turned & glared at Tao, who was standing near in front of the entrance.

“So, you knew about me, didn't you?” Chase exclaimed to narrow his eyes at Tao who has unlock the truth.

“From the day you came & the fighting skills you possessed, nopony have such ability but you & Mystic Ponies.” Tao shook his head in stating these facts.

“He knew?! But why didn't he warn the others?” Tech yelped with worry, the guy knew the whole time?

“Tao, you figured Ben could get easily emotional. And the only way to prove that I am Shadow Dragon, he needs a proof of me & the activities.” Chase explained off in what was the basic means to show the truth of his ruse.

“No. I want to talk with you. I want to bring you home, Dragon Hope. Please turn back now. We can still rebuild our relationship & everything you have done.” Tao shook his head while offering to help this stallion become the son he lost.

“It's too late, father.” Chase exclaimed off with a serious frown.

“It's never too late, son. Please.” Tao insisted that the pony reconsider.

“Your son died when everyone turned against him about love with a mortal. And worse is how corrupt our home is. But I'm giving you a chance, father. Leave now. You'll be fine.” Chase issued off in giving a threatening, but fair choice to let Tao walk away, or be sorry.

“I can't let you do this. You know that.” Tao sighs to shake his head in knowing he can’t walk away this time.

“Then, sorry if I have to do this!” Chase exclaimed off to say this with a stone cold expression.

Chase soon charged in while he readied to punch his target, causing Tao blocked it with his hooves. Chase continued punching & kicking at Tao, who blocked & deflected the attacks swiftly for a few times. And just before Tao could do anything, Chase jumped & gave a swipe kick on Tao's face hard. Chase charged & attacked Tao, who was forced to block & deflected the attacks.

“It doesn't have to be this way. Please, stop!” Tao begged out for his son.

“You were my father! A father who risked everything to defend me! You believed in me! You trusted me! And you loved me! And what did you do when ponies turned their backs on me about Drake Blackstar?! What did you do?!” Chase glared at the old stallion in knowing how things went in the past.

Tao remained silent yet guilty about the manner. 

“I’m sorry, son. I really am. For everything.” Tao shook his head sadly for the suffering his son was given 500 years ago.

“Same can't be said from me!” Chase glared at Tao in making that remark.

And just before Tao could do anything, Chase punched on the former's chest hard for a few times. Chase jumped & then kicked him off hard. Tao summoned his five cards as he chanted while firing Elemental Powers at Chase. Chase dodged & deflected the powers while charging straight at him. And just before Tao could do anything, Chase kicked & landed on him down hard.

“It's over, father.” Chase remarked this off to the old stallion.

“Son, please. Think about what you did! Think about your action! Think about Iris Crystal! You spent three years at Ponyville for defending their home.” Tao tried to reach out for his son to know of what he’s done.

“It’s to win their trust!” Chase coldly stated this of what he was only doing, nothing more.

“You're a poor liar, son. You grew a bond with them. You grew in love with them. And above all, you're becoming part of friendship & family, including Iris's little brother. Please, turn back.” Tao tried one last time to get his son to listen to his heart.

Chase hummed in shame before he sighed at this.

“Sorry, dad. It's already too late.” Chase slowly stated this off that it’s too late now…

“Chase!” Then a voice was called out as it belong to Ben’s voice.

Chase looked up & found Ben along with his friends standing before him while noticing the situation.

“So you know!” Chase exclaimed off to mention this out.

“Why? Why are you doing this, Chase?” Ben asked off in seeing Tao lay on the ground & Chase having hurt him; why was the guy doing this.

Suddenly, Chase transformed into the form of Shadow Dragon which made everyone show reactions. 

“That's why.” The now revealed true face behind Chase said as Shadow Dragon.

“I don’t believe it! Rufus & the others were right!” Rarity gasped in seeing the true face of the real enemy seen.

“Chase really is…Shadow Dragon!” Fluttershy exclaimed to say this in seeing it to believe it.

“Wow, took almost three years before finding that out, hugh?” Pinkie Pie exclaimed din surprise shock of having seen this.

“So, everything was a lie?! But what about our friendship?! What about our training?! What about everything we did to protect Ponyville and Equestria?!” Ben asked off in feeling like his heart was torn, he let his anger cloud his judgement about Chase being Shadow Dragon by his friends & now the enemy has shown his true colors.

“Everything we did is true. And believe me, I truly enjoy it. But I can't let this get in my way, Ben. Sorry.” Shadow Dragon sighs to say this in while it was good for a while, the masking of being someone else…has come to an end.

“Then please, don’t do this! We can still prove that you’re not evil! ” Ben pleaded as if looking like he’s tearing up in side from having to accept, his close friend was truly an enemy all along. “Don’t do this to me! I don’t wanna regret my decision in not seeing that you are a good pony inside. Just please, tell us that much!” Ben was almost on a motion of feeling like he’ll let off tears of regret if he can’t get through to this guy.

“You know this is not what she wanted; for Iris Crystal. Please, don't destroy everything she wanted for you.” Twilight nodded in wanting Shadow Dragon to not throw away what his old love left for him to do with his life.

Many were in slow nods & agreeing terms & look to plead for Shadow Dragon to reconsider his choice. For if he crosses the line, then there can be no going back.

“It's too late, Ben. Tech, now!” Shadow Dragon shook his head to sadly say, while signaling Tech to move onto their plan.

“Cannons gonna blow in 3…2…1…” Tech smile doff to nod while pressing the explosion trigger.

“Nooooooo!” Everyone called out in seeing this, but…it’s too late.

Suddenly, within the outside location of the Laser Cannons, they were exploding off. The pointed at the portals were soon destroyed, reduced to nothing but rubble & the magical energy expired.

“He really blew up the cannons?” Rainbow Dash looked out in seeing what happened.

“Just like a rat ta be sneaky!” Applejack remarked off in seeing what Tech had gone & done.

“And now….Adios, amigo! One Mystic Energy Sphere kabloomie, coming up!” Tech issued off to say that soon, the last thing to go will be the sphere.

“I think not…” Then someone else was heard speaking & soon blur into the scene near the sidelines for all to see.

“Rufus?” The Mane Six gang replied off in surprise, their ally was here…

“You followed us…but…”Ben was surprised, Rufus came after them even when he let off a bad tantrum…

“This time, the trap will work.” Rufus stated to say this in narrowing his eyes at Shadow Dragon.

“You mean that Elemental Blackout Alchemy thing?” Phobos raised an eyebrow in being curious about what was used before on Lelouch posing himself as Chase?

“Fool….perhaps you never knew, but allow me to tell you. The Element Blackout Alchemy was a spell designed by the Element of Darkness. It will work on others, but it won’t work on me.” Shadow Dragon remarked off as he steps away from Tao to tell anyone that a spell like that won’t work on him since it’s a spell related to darkness.

“I know, that is why…I have memorized it.” Rufus smiled off with confidence in having a different motive in the work

“Hugh…what’s that mean?” Spike replied off lost, what did Rufus mean.

“Memory Make - Element BurstLight Alchemy!” Rufus spoke forth this as he taps his forehead, but then announced something…bizarre!

Then suddenly, a spell circle was seen forming underneath of Shadow Dragon, who believed it was the Element Blackout Alchemy, only this time…it was form of pure blue & white lights. A sudden light voltage surged across his body, causing the darkness of his area to be exposed while he…felt strange.

“GRRUUUARRRRUGHHHH!” Shadow Dragon roared off a painful cry as he was seen struggling before the spell faded, but he fell on his knees. His dark aura faded from his body, his fur was shown some painful burn marks of where the surges of light touched him.

“Shadow Dragon!” Tech yelped in what he saw as he panicked a bit.

“What….is this? This pain…my Element…shutdown…HOW? That was not the Element Blackout Alchemy.” Shadow Dragon clutch himself in feeling strange, his element is not responding, what sort of spell did he get hit with?

“I have memory of a different spell that exist. Combining the Element Blackout Alchemy perform by Bickslow, but utilizing the purity force of the Element Of Light found in Kilik’s mirror, I made this spell to be most effective on Element Users with a Dark Force to shut down their Elements used for evil, & to purify them or burn away those evil…And the effect will last for a full day.” Rufus issued off to mention this about having done something unexpected, he made a new spell version of Element Blackout Alchemy to which it effects beings of darkness, even the very Element of Darkness too.

“Grrr…you invented a new spell by memory! A spell none have ever dreamed was possible! Curses…the letter didn’t mention you were in on this!” Shadow Dragon cursed from feeling that his strength was dropped, he did not foreseen this nor did the anonymous helper tell him about it.

“Don’t worry SD, we’re still on top of this, they can’t stop the sphere from blowing up in 60 seconds. And it being in the Mystic Realm, the reaction will level all the Mystics to keep them from helping in the invasion.” Tech smiled off to let Shadow Dragon know, they will still be on top, as when the Mystic Energy Sphere goes KABLAM, it’ll destroy much areas of the Mystic Realm.

“Wrong, you will not achieve that, what you did may work in the Mystic Realm, but outside it, it will only be a normal explosion.” Rufus issued off to slyly say this in having spoke out what flaw lies in that plan.

“Rufus, what are you…” Ben was about to ask another question, when…

“Memory Make - Warp Teleportation!” Rufus spoke off in seen preparing another move out of the blue.

Then without warning, Rufus teleported everyone but Tao from the area; but even more so, the Mystic Power Sphere was also gone too.

“Aieyah….I must gather the others, this will not be good! This will be very bad!” Tao exclaimed doff in worrying that things are about to get bad, & he must warn his allies of the danger Equestria may soon face.

Everything goes black with Tao hurrying off to warn many of what has transpired.

------------------

Back within the place of where the ambush would have happened, Bickslow, KIlik, Goldie’s group were there while the Royal Sisters went to get things ready for an attack until suddenly, a light flash before them. And soon appearing, was the Mane Six group, followed by Rufus, along with a stumbling Tech & Shadow Dragon on the ground still under the effects of the spell, Element BurstLight Alchemy. And what was also brought was the Mystic Energy Sphere counting down the minutes.

“Wait, we’re back in the old candy factory!” Nyx exclaimed to see where they ended up back in.

“Yo, what happened?” Bickslow asked off in what was the 4111.

“So you did find Shadow Dragon, what about the Mystic Shield…” Kilik saw Shadow Dragon on the ground looking a bit worse for wear, but what about the Mystic Shield; was it safe?

“Unfortunately, it’s too late & we must hurry.” Rufus stated that there is no time to explain, they must getaway while the getting is good.

“Wraaaaaauughhh…..” The Mystic Shield was letting off a strange screeching cry as it was starting to shake the entire area while cracks were forming around it. The trigger device was unleashing a strange darkness to cause harm on the Mystic Energy Sphere.

“Eehehehehehhe…..” Both Pinkie Pie & Pinkamena were making weird noises as if having their Pinkie Senses go off before… “SHE’s GONNA BLOOOOW!” They both shouted off that the Mystic Shield's energy sphere is about to blow up.

“Quick, everyone, outside!” Golden issued off that they need to get everyone to safety here.

“But what about Azure?” Jack Zen asked in seeing the Kirin was still down there.

“He’s a Kirin, he’ll make it out okay. Trust me!” Pinkamena stated to say that knowing her dragon pal, he’s a tough nut to crack.

“We must evacuate the area.” Omega stated off in what they need to do here, right away.

"Everyone, this way!" Starlight Glimmer waved off to the others to head for where they came in.

Everyone was quickly heading out of the door at this time, Ben used his Pegasus Boots to speedily reach the top to join the others. Rufus vanish in a fast instant while Bickslow had his Dolls form some sorta totem pole which he used to fly off on outta here. The only ones remaining were a slow moving Azure that was getting his bearings from the events that blown off the Weeping Dragon Flowers & saw that Shadow Dragon & Tech before him.

“Um, SD….you do have a plan for us to get out before this blows, right?” Tech asked off nervously in seeing they best get out before they are caught in the explosion.

“Fool, we’ll escape by a Corridor of Darkness. Now let’s….” Shadow Dragon remarked the coward’s lack to knowing how they travel as he’ll use his Dark Mystic magic to open one…

“You’re not going anywhere!” Then Azure came to tackle a distracted Shadow Dragon to the ground as they are seen wrestling against another.

“Waaaaugh!” Tech screamed out in seeing that Azure had Shadow Dragon, & worse, the Mystic Energy Sphere's about to BLOW! This is so not good!

“Wraaaaaauughhhh…..” The Mystic Shield's energy sphere lets off a screeching scream while its structure was beginning to crack under pressure & light was escaping, it was blinding everyone in the room…

Then it all goes dark at this time from when something was about to happen….

-------------------

Outside the factory, everything looked fine for a few brief moments until… “Srrupvhmmm…Boomfruvhmmm….” Without warning, light flash from outside the windows before it was soon imploded from the inside as much of it started to crumble a bit. “Drusisisfrufrufruvhmm…” Then an invisible shield that was made by Mystic Magic started to deteriorate itself as it was vanishing bit by bit. The others from Goldie’s group that awaited outside the abandon factory watch something happened above while they notice what happened before.

“Oh no! What’s happening? First an explosion by the old Shield Toy & Candy Factory, now this?” Autumn Gem yelped with worry in what was happening here all of a sudden.

“The Mystic Shield must have been destroyed, the shield around the town is fading!” Sombra stated with a serious face in seeing the disaster that was befalling them.

"That couldn't happen unless the Mystic Shield was...destroyed!" Fila exclaimed in realizing what this could very much mean.

“Everyone, we got bigger problems ahead!” Suddenly, Flutterbat flew in from afar as it was safe for her to be out when it was nighttime, but alerted those here of trouble.

Just outside of Ponyville while the Mystic Shield’s barrier shield was disappearing, a large army of Dark Mystic Soldier ranks were seen awaiting to march in.

“There’s a whole army of Dark Mystics, preparing to launch a full scale raid.” Flutterbat’s voice is heard from stating that there is an enemy’s large army about to attack once the shield has faded.

“The shield is down!” One Dark Soldier stated in seeing what was going on ahead of them.

“We can attack!” A second Dark Soldier declared in knowing what this means for them now.

“Then let’s do this!” A third Dark Soldier announced that they attack and show no mercy.

"What of the cannons?" A fourth Dark Soldier question in being concern.

"The commander just got report, they are destroyed along with the Mystic Energy Sphere. The shield is gone for GOOD!" A fifth Dark Soldier issued off to report this matter of what they have learn.

“Yeeeaaaaahhh….” Soon the roars of a thousand Dark Mystic Soldiers were heard screaming their battle cries as they are about to go into action here.

Arriving on the scene was Celestia & Luna as they landed outside of the former hiding spot of the Mystic Shield. They were too late, the shield that protected them is gone & it not only stop powerful attacks from destroying the town, but weaken any foes that enter Ponyville. With that gone, they must rely on their own strength it seems.

“This doesn’t look good sister. The enemy has waited for this moment to attack once the shield was destroyed.” Luna stated with a serious face in seeing what was happening here, the Dark Mystics are about to lay siege on them with no defense.

“I know Luna, be we won’t give up without a fight. We’ll protect this place as we are princesses with the responsibility for their citizens.” Celestia spoke forth in sounding like a true ruler that won’t abandon their citizens when they need protection.

“Royal Guards, stand ready!” Luna turn back to the large number of Royal Guards they have to help them out.

“Yes ma’am!” The Royal Guards all spoke in being ready to do what they can to help.

“May we have victory this day…” Celestia prayed off in wishing that they can win this battle, or else…all is lost.

Now everyone watches as those prepare while seeing the enemy begin to march from their spot towards Ponyville. This is gonna be a tough call, no Mystic Shield, now enemies will attack from anywhere. But first things first, the Equestrians must survive this battle if they hope to see another tomorrow. What’s gonna happen from here and on through…that’s a question best serve to answer…afterwards…
> Chapter 05: Friends To Foes: Ben VS. Shadow Dragon
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 05: Friends To Foes: Ben VS. Shadow Dragon


At this moment from last we left off the Mystic Shield was destroyed at last by Shadow Dragon just as his identity was revealed. And now with the shield over Ponyville now gone & no Laser Cannons to help out, a large army of Dark Mystics now stands ready to attack. However, by the ruin factory, the Mane Six and their group slowly come out of all the smoke that has appeared from the wreckage of the explosion they escaped. But as they came out, they see between an army of Royal Guards facing up against a large force of Dark Soldiers on the opposite side.

“No way! They’re already here!” Rainbow Dash protest to say in seeing that the enemy was already here with an army.

“Looks like it. They waste no time it seems.” Applejack issued off in thinking that with the shield down, they were prepared.

“Goodness! Out of the frying pan & into the fire! And I thought the loss of the shield was bad enough!” Rarity complained off to say that this seem quite bad for them to be dealing with.

“Oh dear, what do we do now?” Fluttershy yelps in wondering what they can do now to stop this.

“Look, there’s Celestia & Luna!” Pinkie Pie pointed in seeing their pals, the Royal Sisters, with an army to back them up.

“Mom, Aunt Luna!” Ben called out to where he & the rest went up to Celestia & Luna.

“Ben, thank goodness you & everyone are alright.” Celestia smiled forth in seeing her son, friends & family are alright.

“You all need to be ready, we’re about to fight off against some difficult odds here.” Luna stated to say in seeing that they are about to face some difficult measures.

“We’re sorry, the shield is gone, Chase…no…Shadow Dragon destroyed it.” Twilight spoke to say in feeling sad to know that they didn’t stop the one pony spy among them this whole time.

"They were one in the same." Starlight Glimmer stated about the two were the same pony.

“We best save the blame game for later.” Golden Heart suggested that they talk about this a little afterwards here.

“Golden Heart’s right, we need to stop the army from advancing.” Jack Zen nodded off to agree, they are seriously in a bad bind here.

“I shall aid in taking the front position to attack.” Omega issued forth to say in what he shall be doing as he gets his weapons ready.

“Or maybe…we can lessen their forces with another handy pal of ours before going all out.” Pinkamena smile doff to say in looking back in expecting…something to appear.

Before anyone could ask, the rubble from the factory broke off & soon something was digging out to join the others. It was none other than Azure, the guy survived being buried under heavy stuff & managed to handle that blast from the destroyed Mystic Shield.

“It’s Azure, he really did survive that blast!” Phobos replied off in seeing the Pony Dragon Hybrid guy made it out.

“Well, guess that’s why Kirins were said to be so tough I guess.” Spike shrug off to say in seeing they have a tough dragon pal to help out.

“I’ll distract their attention, everyone else get ready from afar.” Azure issued off in plain english that he’ll help get the enemy’s attention.

“Right, lets show these Dark Mystics we’re not so easily beat!” Nyx declared while transforming into her Battle Form at the time.

“And you won’t be alone.” Suddenly, Rufus appeared in smiling to show that he shall also be helping too.

“Many of us will also fight.” Kilik appeared with his pole-rod in stating they shall assist in the battle.

“Heh-Hah, let’s get ready to go wild! Baby!” Bickslow laughed off with his tongue held out in about to go wild here.

“Go Wild! Yeah, yeah!” The Dolls floated around Bickslow in agreeing on what they are gonna do here.

With the plan set in motion, everyone takes up positions, brings out any of their weaponry & gears, & gets set. It’s time to show the Dark Mystics that just cause the shield is down don’t mean they are down for the count just yet. Everything fads out in where the scene changes to what’s going on currently…

----------

A large group of Dark Mystics were charging to raid and attack the shieldless Ponyville. But just as they were coming in reach, many of them notice one lone pony flap from above to land between the enemy & their destination. It was none other than Azure as he stood there & let off a growl to lean down in getting into a battle position to attack. The enemy blinked for a second to register this before…they were letting out dark chuckles in seeing that their foe was but one insignificant foe that look like he was behaving like some sorta vicious animal; oh, how scary, NOT!

“Hah! One little pony that dresses off like a Dragon is trying to stop us!” Dark Mystic Soldier 1 spoke off at this sight that was too funny to not find humorist.

“He’s not even a Mystic Pony, he’s nothing but a little runt of the mortal pony litter.” Dark Mystic Soldier 2 remarked off that this one opponent would hardly be able to fight them.

“I hold your tongue, dark ones, for it might lead to your poor judgements.” Azure issued off to speak clearly in telling these Dark Mystic Soldiers some words of advice.

“Commander, your orders?” Dark Mystic Soldier 3 asked one who was more dressed in fancy armor to look like a commanding officer; a commander by title rank.

“As if you need to ask.” The Dark Mystic Commander issued off to say this that the matter was simple. “Listen up, you’re the one who made a poor judgement to come alone. So now…you will DIE!” He stated to Azure that the only one about to pay for poor judgement is the Pony Dragon Hybrid. “Get him!” He flick off his left hoof to give a signal to his troops on the right side of him.

From that signal, it sent 20 of the Dark Soldiers to charge forth at Azure, but he stood there with his eyes closed. Soon, Azure was surrounded by all 20 strong soldiers in a crescent formation before they gave out battle cries to charge forth with their weapons to kill, but then Azure opened his eyes and did something…

“GROOUURRGHHH…/Kurpowwfrvuhhmmm…” Azure lets off a roar that was shaking the place as he launches fire from his mouth that blow up the area of the attackers.

“Gwaaaaaauuuhhhh!” Now 20 of those Dark Soldiers were sent packing to scream off from the force that they could not withstand before dropping like flies.

“Fruussfruvhmmm…” Next, Azure breaths his fire up in the skies & lets it rain down on the many other Dark Soldiers. “Gwuuaaagghhh!” Many were heard screaming as they ran from the pain while some avoided that to try to attack Azure. “Frooopsvhmmm…Pacthfruvhmmm…Chopfruvhmmm…” But Azure was dodging any attackers with ease before he strikes with his horns, claws, tail, even his teeth. Once the 20 & some other unfortunate Dark Soldiers got dealt with, those apart of the main army look back at Azure with concerns & worry of what was this mortal pony while the Commander was simply staring at this creature.

“Hmmm, you may have been lucky just now. You do have some powerful skills at your display.” The Dark Mystic Commander hums a bit in having seen what this stranger can do. “But you stand no chance when all those on my Command, attack you at once!” He snapped off to say in what little chance Azure has.

“Heh, are you certain of that, Dark One?” Azure let off a sly smile in having heard of such a thing. “As it so happens, I’ve once seen a more form of a heavily guarded outpost during the Great War of Mystics & Dark Mystics & I reduce it into rubble by one assault.” He explained in having done something to a once fortified structure formation of long ago.

This statement caught many of the Dark Mystics by surprise as they have heard about that story when they last fought against the Mystic Ponies. But that was almost over 700 or even more longer years ago when Dark Curse went rogue against the Mystics. Just how old was this strange pony anyway?

“Strange, reports said an unknown storm appeared with an unnatural mixture of fire & lightning & said a creature was the cause. Could it be…?” The Dark Mystic Commander pondered in recalling what happened some years ago, centuries even, before putting together the pieces…Azure was the one that was behind that attack. “Dark Soldiers, ready to fire at will!” He got into a serious expression & order his troops to prepare to fire what they got.

All of the Dark Soldiers ready their weapons to take aim against Azure that stood there. The commander gave a silent signal to have what was the first wave to attack & launch the first volley of spells & blast shots at the target. “GUUURRRAARRRUUGHHHHH!” Azure however launched out a shot force of pressure air & wind that blasted forth, repel the attack to be scattered. Once that was over, Azure slowly closes his eyes while the enemy prepares their next attack.

“Ready…Aim….FIRE!” The Dark Mystic Commander issued forth before giving out the loud command to have everyone fire.

Soon many of the Dark Soldiers were firing large volleys of all types of spells, powerful stuff & also strong weapon shots, etc. at Azure. But Azure didn’t move, his body instead started to glow a bit as the attacks were impacting him. The attacks kept on coming & coming until there was starting to be a smoke cloud shrouding all over the place to make it hard to see.

“Hold Your Fire!” The Dark Mystic Commander held up his right hoof in signaling for the attack on Azure to cease which was done.

After the attack seem to be over, many watch as there was nothing but smoke that was seen from where Azure once stood. There wasn’t a single sound, nothing but rubble from their attacks, no sounds of life at all if any survive that onslaught. Many of the Dark Soldiers were smirking in succession, even the Commander smiled ego-like in seeing the pain in the neck foe is finished.

“That’s one problem dealt with. Dark Soldiers, prepare to attack Ponyville!” The Dark Mystic Commander smiled in seeing that with this done, he turns to his troops in ordering the attack; which the Dark Soldiers cheered in rallying themselves up for the raid. But something was wrong now as the Dark Mystic army was about ready to move, they stop to stare at something that puzzled them while it made some look a bit fearful. “What are you waiting for? ATTACK, I SAY!” The Dark Mystic Commander snapped off in seeing the soldiers were not moving, what’s the delay.

“But…Commander!” A lone Dark Soldier was about to say something in looking frighten of something.

“What’s wrong? The Interference is GONE! WHATS THE HOLDUP?” The Dark Mystic Commander questioned why no one was moving off to raid Ponyville now.

Then without warning, the area was starting to shake as if a sudden earthquake was taking place. But as the Dark Mystic Commander & his troops turn their attention of what’s happening, to what was seen…behind the smoke of what was hit by their attacks. All eyes started to go wide when something was seen with the smoke clearing, it was a form of a large Dragon that was giant size, bigger than what other Dragons would be…This creature was really Azure as he lets off a growling & blew out is snot to blow away the smoke to bring his full appearance to those that thought he was a mere pony…. 

“I don’t believe it! A Kirin in this day & age!” The Dark Mystic Commander responded in absolute stun speechless moment in seeing this dragon that shouldn’t exist: but then he snap out of his stupid moment to stare back at his stupefied army. “ALL FORCES! CONCENTRATE ALL FIRE ON THE KIRIN!” He yelled out in snapping his soldiers to focus everything they got to take down this enemy foe.

Of course some Dark Soldiers were scared in seeing a real live Kirin, but they were quick to just attack; some blindly by fear, others who replace fear with anger. But many of the Dark Mystics attack shots weren’t doing much as some were being deflected off the Kirin’s scales. “GROOOAUURRGHHHHH…..” Then Azure let off a loud Dragon’s roar, shaking everything around on sight. “Rruuooaarrrughhhh……” While some of the Dark Soldiers seem to tremble with fear, Azure raised up its hind legs & open up its wings while letting off another roar. The skies were becoming cloudy as it spark before lightning was send down & was shocking many of the Dark Soldiers that were not able to dodge the attack. And if that wasn’t enough, within the skies, large flaming rocks were falling & impacting the ground; while not really damaging the ground or nature itself, but did knock the Dark Soldiers for another loop. Many a few Dark Mystic Soldiers kept on firing their attacks on Azure as he seem to slowly be heading to them, some tried to dodge out of the attacking dragon, but the lightning storm & falling fiery rocks the Kirin made struck any that were not paying attention to what’s going on around. As this was going on, the Dark Mystic Commander watches with both a tiny sweat of fear while keeping on a strict tight & angry face at hearing the voice cries of Dark Soldiers getting wiped out; the appearance of a Kirin & of knowing of their capabilities will make this harder for them.

“Grrr…..” The Dark Mystic Commander growls in frustration in seeing this foe was giving them such trouble. “Send a flare. We must call in Reinforcements at once!” He turn to one soldier in requesting they need more troops here at once.

“But sir; that was meant to be used for the next raid of attack on Ponyville!” A Dark Mystic Lieutenant issued off that if they request more troops now, then the enemy will know their numbers before they can touch Ponyville.

But then large fire rocks fell from the skies to land almost near them & nearly wiped out more then half a three dozen Dark Soldiers that were near the Commander. From recovering from what hit them, the Commander glared at the Lieutenant in looking pretty annoyed.

“We may not HAVE the next attack with this thing in the way! I’ll contact them MYSELF!” The Dark Mystic Commander snapped off to say that at this rate, they’ll be wiped out before they reach their designated target before deciding to do the task of contacting himself.

Soon the commander of the Dark Mystic Troops pulls up a mechanical magic com-device of sorts & starts to issue a message of ’SOS’, ’Send Reinforcements’, etc. All while informing the rest of their forces about what’s going on with their delay to raid & attack Ponyville. “Grooouuarrrrrughhhhh!” Right now, the Dark Mystic Commander turns to look back in hearing the roaring Dragon voice of a Kirin as Azure continues to attack them as the battle rages on here.

-------------

Meanwhile where there were other Dark Soldiers preparing to go straight to back up against Azure the Kirin. But they were not seeing that Rufus was on top of a building as he seem to be pinpointing the foes location. He uses the tips of each front hoof on the side of his temples.

“I’ve memorized your position & abilities…” Rufus spoke in memorizing the data related to the Dark Soldiers. “For you won’t be able to resist this!” Soon he was creating an undulating chains of visible memories behind him before his body releases light. “A Night of Falling Stars!” As Rufus held out his hooves, several beams of lightning, reminiscent of shooting stars are released into the air & target the opponents no matter where their positions, & striking them with great force.

“Gaaaaughhhh!” Many Dark Soldiers felt helpless under that unexpected attack that came out of nowhere as it was composed of lightning.

“You all should be like a memory & forget this invasion!” Rufus stated off to say as he was having another plan to take as he tap his hooves to the side of his temples. “Line Of Ancient Master Swordsmen!” He issued forth in preparing the next attack of his using his element’s power of memory making.

Then without warning, Rufus created a line of lance-wielding swordsmen made of ice that hover in the air. And then they attacked to which they are capable of blocking enemy’s attacks & at the same time injuring them; the Dark Mystics were left bamboozled.

“He’s created swordsmen made of ice!” One Dark Soldier yelped in seeing that now they have to face against an army of ice-sculpture swordsmen.

“This is what it means, to have a Memory of many Ancient Spells & create new spells…in Memory.” Rufus declared off to tip his hat while smiling at having the advantage, to make new spells to go against the enemy.

Many other Dark Soldiers were trying to get up & were gonna attack Rufus for attacking them when…another interference came up.

“Baryon Formation!” Bickslow shouted this off as his five Dolls spin around in a pentagonal pattern; a large whirlwind is produced around the formation & from the latter’s hollow center, a massive & powerful magical beam is generated. “Powwfruvhmmm…/Kurpowwfruvhmmm…” Soon it releases a massive beam of energy towards the targets & cause mass destruction.

“Gwuuuooooagh!” More Dark Mystics yelped from being attacked as they look up to see on a hill, that Bickslow was there.

“Heh-Hah! Let’s rattle them up more, baby!” Bickslow laugh off with his hung out tongue in wanting to go more wild on these guys. “Line Formation!” At his command, the five Dolls gather in midair & then combine by standing on top of one another. “Powfrvuhmmm…” From such a liner formation of dolls, a large, vertical crescent-shaped beam, roughly taller than a human is released towards the opponent. “Slashfruvhmm…Boomfruvhmm…” Unlike normal beams, this type of attack cuts through its targets & possesses enough cutting power to clearly bifurcate both the ground & large pieces of objects, like a Dark Mystic tank.

As the battle was going off, it seems that many of those fighting the enemy are holding out. Even the Royal Guards are fighting at their best to stop any Dark Soldiers from coming up to Ponyville. Celestia watch this go on, but soon her sister Luna returns from another task at hand.

“Sister, I have brought some residents from Ponyville to help.” Luna spoke in having some folks that live in Ponyville to help them out.

“Please, help us here or the enemy shall overrun us.” Celestia kindly asked of those here,as those present soon spoke.

“You kidding, I was burning to go in!” Crash Fire steps forth in just raring to get going here.

“I shall help out as well.” Snowcrystal stated off that she too, will help out here.

“They shall feel a blade of my swords.” Halon Blade issued forth in getting his blade ready.

“Okay boys, let’s get them good!” Senseless Joe spoke off to those of his own party to get ready to rumble.

“Yeaaah!” Senseless Joe’s oddball gang cheered; Don Patch, Jelly Jiggler, General Lee Fishcake & Softon, they are about to go hog wild.

Now the battle was really gonna be heating up here as Halon Blade summoned thousands of swords to rain down upon the targets. Then Crash Fire started to level the plain-field to turn up the heat, literally to torch off any Dark Soldiers to have burn flanks. Snowcrystal used her ice powers to bring a cold chill in the air to freeze the enemy into place. Senseless Joe & his oddball gang were strangely riding off on motorcycles waving banter flags saying ‘Ruff Bunch’ while looking like gangster biker werewolves; don’t ask. But as the commander watch from dealing with Azure, he saw more of their soldier army get trample by more backup heroes.

“WHEN DID PONYVILLE GET SUCH TOUGH FIGHTERS!?” The Dark Mystic Commander yelled out in seeing the impossible deed, they should have it easy, yet there are mortal Equestrians that are THIS strong, this can’t be right! Can it?

“BAM-Booomfruvhmm…/GRROOUUAAAUGHHH!/Waaaaaughhhh!” Many explosions were happening as Azure the Kirin was blowing against many cries of Dark Soldiers being wiped out in not stopping this powerful Dragon.

-------------

At this time, Goldie’s group was facing off their own batch of Dark Mystic Soldiers. Omega was letting off his Omega Gatling & Omega Cannon to break off a few at a time. Golden Heart was using his Golden Flames & Jack Zen used his Twin Sword move to double up on his attack skills. Sombra was using his own Eternal Style to cause much trouble against his own foes. Pinkamena was swinging her Blades of the Pinkie Pie around to knock the stuffing against the enemies. But while the others in Goldie’s party were fairing alright, a scene shows that Autumn Gem was back into a corner by some Dark Soldiers as she looked around for some way out of this.

“‘I maybe just a Crystal pony, but I’m warning you! It is not wise to corner me!” Autumn Gem spoke off to say that if these guys think she’s easy prey, they should think again.

“You may as well forget it, your lover colt is busy & won’t come to your rescue.” One Dark Soldier issued off to say this about the mare not having Sombra near to save her.

“When we’re through with you, you’ll be lucky to be allowed to live as our slave.” A Second Dark Soldier pointed out in what will become of this mare.

“Now surrender or else...this poor foal gets it!” A third A Third Dark Soldier issued a threat for the mare to surrender if it wants the child to be safe.

From near a corner to one side as two other Dark Soldiers had held a poor little foal that was with it’s mother as it was crying. Autumn Gem’s eye look shock before it started to twitch & her teeth started to grit together.

“Don’t worry, no harm will come to this one, as long as you listen.” A Fourth Dark Soldier issued off that the child will be safe if Autumn Gem obeys.

“Um, Miss….you listening?” A Fifth Dark Soldier asked in seeing something distracting Autumn Gem for unknown reason.

Soon eyes were on to notice something wrong with Autumn Gem, as she seem to be shaking, but not with fear, something else; anger maybe. Then as her eyes look up from the ground, many saw they were looking slightly red.

“You…WOULD DO WHAT? TO THAT MOTHERS’ LITTLE FOAL?” Autumn Gem yelled out in looking frustrated in seeing this kinda action was unacceptable.

That made the Dark Soldiers seem to be lost in seeing the strange reaction the mare was doing.

“Come on, it’s only a simple little mare!” One Dark Soldier issued that there was no need to be afraid.

“Roooaaarrrruughhh!” But that was push off from when a scream battle cry roared off as the Dark Soldiers turn to see a charging Autumn Gem.

“Oh boy…” This made the front Dark Soldier yelp in being freaked out suddenly.

Then Autumn Gem crashes against the first Dark Soldier, which she used one against his buddies as the sound of a bowling ball hitting against the bowling pins. The soldiers were air board & then Autumn Gem leap up to deliver some fighting & bashing stuff against the knock up opponents. Course the noises did earn Golden Heart & the rest of his team to pay attention to what’s going on, even Sombra himself. They saw some Dark Soldiers sent flying before they landed on the ground, somewhat beaten to be bruise while the two Dark Mystic Soldiers holding the mother mare & her foal child watch in stun belief in what just happened. Then Autumn Gem approached one Dark Soldier that was ordering this trooper bunch to pick him up & toss him on his flank as he looked up to almost sweat in shock at the mean gaze this mare was giving him and the others.

“Let the mother…& child…go!” Autumn Gem spoke off with a threatening tone to sternly order the enemy to let the two go.

The Dark Soldier started to nearly sweat off a bunch from his face as he slowly lets go of the foal & the mother to let them move freely.

“Thank…you…” The mother of the little foal gave Autumn Gem her thanks for the assist. The mare & child left soon afterwards while leaving Autumn Gem to gaze back at the Dark Soldiers that she managed to handle.

“I want you & your Dark Mystic pals to scram before I kick you all STRAIGHT…to the Moon. Now GET!” Autumn Gem was issuing this off in getting up to the guy’s face & demanding that they get lost, OR ELSE!

Then the Dark Soldiers quickly vamoose on out of there to get away from this whack-job of a mortal mare. As Autumn Gem watches them leave, she let off a sigh relief, breath out & her eyes calmly return to normal. Course as she look ahead while moving out, she saw her group mates were here, & with Sombra’s mouth that was lightly open from gasping at what he saw.

“Well, I warn them not to corner me. Heheh…” Autumn Gem shrug off to say to her group pals about what she said earlier as she giggled before she approach Sombra to close his mouth & give him a quick kiss on the nose. “Come on, we have to help the others, right?” She blush a bit while changing the subject, as she begins to walk off while leaving a blushing Sombra in the midst.

“Wow! Those Self-Defense teachings & combat training really paid off with her! But anyway, we best get going too.” Pinkamena replied off in seeing how much Autumn Gem has been doing lately, but changes the subject that they need to hurry with their job.

As the rest of Goldie’s group nods their heads in agreement, Sombra follows them while still getting over his surprise at how Autumn Gem has been doing lately.

“Maybe when this is all over & we’re safe, maybe I will ask her.” Sombra stated off in thinking what he’ll do to give Autumn Gem a good time off by going on a romantic date with him.

The scene goes dark as everyone from Goldie’s group continues to fight against their enemies to protect Ponyville.

-----------

As the battle was still going on, Lelouch & Celtic watch things from afar in how Ben & Shadow Dragon were fighting it out.

“So, they've managed to weaken Shadow Dragon with new tricks? Pathetic cheap trick... And they say they have honor.” Lelouch spoke off in a rhetorical nonsense of what was happening.

“Perhaps you forget, they did the same thing. All is fair in love & love. But what will you do now?” Celtic spoke off in reminding the guy of such things.

“Prepare the second phase. Let's see if they enjoy with this trick.” Lelouch stated in having something else in mind here.

Things fade off from this area while the battle continues…

---------------

Seeing the battle was starting to turn more, the Mane Six gang & Ben along with Starlight Glimmer, Nyx & the baby Dragons felt okay. Everyone was doing their part to stop the Dark Mystics from coming into their town to wreck the place. So it’s about time that they also join in on the brawling as well.

"So far, so good." Starlight Glimmer exclaimed in their current progress.

“We’re pushing them back, we can win this!” Phobos smiled off in seeing that maybe the can win this battle after all.

Just then, something was seen pushing against the rubble of the destroyed factory as it was shown looking like Shadow Dragon along with Tech.

“Shadow Dragon!” The gang responded off in shock, the guy has come out from under the factory rubble.

“Um, hello…I’m here…& hurting!” Tech waved out to push himself out of being buried, but ache from the pain.

“And Tech.” Phobos rolled his eyes in not caring much for the gothic mama’s colt here.

“Grrr….I did not expect that Kirin to plan on all of us taking the blast.” Shadow Dragon growls in what Azure tried to do that almost finished them off, but he’s a lot tougher.

“So, the rats have come out of their holes.” Rainbow Dash made a stern expression in seeing whose here that cause this mess to begin with.

“Speaking of rats, I want to know something. Why? Why did you do it?” Ben stated in gazing down at these two Dark Mystics in wanting answers about something that bug him in the past & now Ben was especially mad at Shadow Dragon for lying to him.

“You already know the answer. Everything was an act.” Shadow Dragon remarked off in criticizing the case.

“You lied! You may pretend to be a good guy, but you're willing to give in to make friends, socialize with everyone & above all…training & helping me to protect my home.” Ben snapped off in pricing the other truth of the matter behind the lies.

“I admit it. I do enjoy it. But still…” Shadow Dragon sighs a bit from that last part, but he was going to push it off…

“Forget about that mission & the past! Lots of ponies missed you, including your teammates & family. Come back home! Please. Prove everyone that they're wrong about you! Prove them that you can come home.” Ben issued off in forcing Shadow Dragon to not continue down this path touring.

The others that heard this comment started to feel like maybe they should at least try to plead one more time…maybe hoping to get a different response.

“Ben’s right, is this really what you wanna be?” Fluttershy exclaimed off to say this.

“Yes, weren’t you better off not conquering others?” Rarity stated off to mention this.

“Yeah! If the other you became a good guy, why can't you?” Rainbow Dash stated in why Shadow Dragon can’t be the good pony Chase for good.

“Because it's beyond me. And you know what happen if you chose that path.” Shadow Dragon rerouted off to say this as everyone remain silent. “No turning back but destroy!” He issued to say this, just before Shadow Dragon punched Ben's face hard to the ground.

“What was that for?!” Ben snapped off to say while everyone else was surprised.

“Prove to me how much you have learned from your master & fellow trainers. And this time, don't disappoint.” Shadow Dragon lectured off in giving an extra push for Ben’s path.

“No talking you out of it?” Ben stated off to say this.

“Afraid not.” Shadow Dragon shook his head.

“So be it…” Ben exclaimed in getting himself ready for the next round.

“Just to have a fair fight.” Lelouch was seen above the two fighters much to everyone’s notice, before he fired a black beam on Shadow Dragon which made him yelp to ache from a strange feeling. “Fight to the death. No rules. May the best Wielder of Elements win,” Lelouch issued off in making this into a death match.

“What the heck are you up to?!” Rainbow Dash snapped off in seeing what this guy was doing.

“Even the odds. And let the evil rise from hell. And just in case for some funny business, a friend of yours will take care of you all.” Lelouch stated off to say this with a gritted face.

As soon as Lelouch disappeared, appearing suddenly was Swipestrike who charged & gave Mane Six, Nyx & Spike some powerful slashes & strikes.

“Miss me?! Don't worry, kid. I will take care of them while you take care of that brat.” Swipestrike issued off to the group that was down before telling this to Shadow Dragon to handle Ben’s case.

“Eeeennn….WRONG! PUUUUUNCH!” Then without warning, a rocket boxing glove was shot that punched Swipestrike’s face by surprise & it was launched by Senseless Joe!

“Uuurrrugh! What!” Swipestrike skid across the battlefield before staring at who struck him with a randomly comical attack.

“It’s my Cousin, Senseless Joe!” Pinkie Pie smiled off in seeing who was here to help them.

“Never fear dearies, nanny will sprinkle some magic dust to make those boo-boos fad.” Senseless Joe issued off while dress like a fairy godmother to sprinkle magic dust from a star-wand to heal the gang from what they got; why & how he got such a thing, it’s senseless to ask the impossible. “And as for this jerk…Hurting my friends & my cousin. I’m gonna give him an opponent that will make him sorry.” Then he turn to look all serious & mean looking gang leader, as if the guy changes his appearance & attitude for many cosplays.

“And what’s that, you senseless moron?” Swipestrike remarked of in what this fool could possible do.

“Fist of Surprises Summons - Torpedo Girl!” Senseless Joe stomps his hooves on the ground in summoning a random creature.

Then appearing from the smoke clouds ended up making almost everyone stare off in puzzlement, because what was summon was…A TORPEDO? But wait, that’s not all, it was actually a living female torpedo who seem about 28 years old! 

“I’M A TORPEDO!” Then the new female torpedo did a strange pose while announcing off who she was while steam boat whistle noises are heard along with explosions.

“Hah! You expect some ridiculous & stupid thing to save you all? When I’m done, those mares are gonna be dead.” Swipestrike laughs at such a thing, what could a freak torpedo with human girl legs & arms do.

“Wait…you wanna hurt these sweet little darlings?” Torpedo Girl asked off in shock to gasp in what she heard.

“Yes!” Swipestrike responded off without delay.

“You…You Monster…That’s horrible…That’s cruel…” Torpedo Girl was clapping her hands to her eyes as if crying from pure horror & sadness to be like a ruling drama-queen, but that change when her eyes showed an EVIL glowing red eye look that spelt; trouble! “DON’T TOUCH A SINGLE MANE ON THEIR HEADS, YOU JERK!/POOOOUWWFRUUVHHMMMMM!” Then in a sudden blur motion faster then the naked eye, Torpedo Girl struck with blank white eyes with her right fist jabbed through the enemy’s gut to make it look like she broke the laws of physics to pop a bump on his backside.

“GRUUUOOOARRRUGHHH!” Swipestrike showed a gaping mouth of spit coughed out with a horrified look in his eyes while slowly feeling a tremendous amount of pain unimaginable before… “Kaboomfruvhmmm….” The guy was shot straight across the battlefield to smash into a forgotten building that brought it down on him.

“HRUUUOOGH! TORPEDO BOMBARDMENT! HYRUUAAGHHHH!” Then Torpedo Girl’s purple aura surrounded her as she took off into the sky & then started to fire off light energy blast shots. “BOOM-BOOM-BOOM-BOOM-BOOM-BOOM!” The female torpedo was letting off a Tartarus load of shots that were pummeling the spot where Swipestrike was in burying him under infinite amounts of blast & shooting him deeper into the ground.

“Okay, you all continue doing what you want, looks like Swipeswoop is getting a beating that is too cruel to show. Don’t worry, my pals & I got this!” Senseless Joe turn to the others in telling them this that everything was okay for them to go as they got this covered as Swipestrike tried to pop up to attack with rage, only for Torpedo Girl to grip her hands & slam the guy’s head hard to be impounded into the ground; again.

“Pinkie Pie, yer cousin is probably too strange ta figure out how he does what he does.” Applejack raised an eyebrow for an oddball expression in what she & everyone thought of the pink pony’s strangely insane random cousin whose very element…Senselessness, makes less sense to understand how it works in mysterious ways.

“But it gave us a chance, come on!” Twilight issued off to say this that this was their chance, so they best take it.

As Shadow Dragon & Ben were still clashing their swords, the Mane Six that were supposed to be dealt with were instead stopped.

“Hey…I thought Swipestrike was handling you!” Tech yelped in seeing who suddenly appeared.

“Apparently, you thought wrong!” Rainbow Dash smiled off to brag this off.

“Pinkie Pie’s bizarre cousin of who beat you silly is handling it.” Rarity smirked off to state this little reminder that gave even Tech goosebumps.

“Oh no….not THAT Random weirdo! He’s even worse than two Pinkie Pies to an Army of them random mares! I can’t understand him…not after the last time he did things that make no sense!” Tech moans off to complain in seeing what sort of madness they got that Senseless Joe has come into the picture; just what they don’t need.

“So it appears Swipestrike won’t be handling you all! A pity too!” Shadow Dragon exclaimed off in seeing what occurred that was not as he had expected.

“Well ye best be ready fer getting’ a JUST desert in wha ye pulled over our wool!” Applejack stated off in feeling they need to beat some sense into those that lied to them & were never their friend to begin with.

“Don’t worry Shadow Dragon, I’ll send my Techbots to take them!” Tech stood up to defend Shadow Dragon while looking determine. “Which would be great if they weren’t in the shop getting repairs done & the Chameleonbots got destroyed by the Mystic Power Sphere explosion. Um, uh oh!” Then he had a double thought in realizing an error, that he doesn’t have his tech support while sweating up a storm.

“I’m actually stun surprise you are in such a state.” Applejack spoke off to say in having seen what shape Shadow Dragon is in.

And then suddenly, a Corridor of Darkness appeared & then vanished while someone walked out from it. And while the heroes stared at some new company to help the Dark Mystics, Shadow Dragon & Tech seem to know this guy; for he seem like some kinda brave & skillful, but perhaps reckless & tempered Earth Pony warrior, who desires power to defeat his enemies.

“Longblade, I wondered when you enter.” Shadow Dragon spoke off in seeing who suddenly showed up at this time to help him out.

“Yes! Backup! Even if it is the insane one, but...We’re saved, SD!” Tech cheered in seeing Longblade here, enough to give Shadow Dragon a hug for rejoice.

“THREE SECOND RULE!” Shadow Dragon shoved Tech off of him for invading his personal space.

“Now then, who’ll be first to challenge me?” Longblade spoke off in awaiting any that want to face him as he won’t be an easy opponent to take down. “Be warn though, for you face against one who will be your doom when I kill you.” He gave off this matter of opinion about who & what he is, so that when the heroes are beat, they’ll know about his character and work methods.

"And another crazy one enters the field!" Starlight Glimmer rolled her eyes in seeing they just keep running into such weird things.

“Can you guys handle this guy, I’ll go after Shadow Dragon!” Ben asked this sudden request from his friends as he wanted to fight against Shadow Dragon.

“Of course darling!” Rarity nodded off in agreeing to do something like that.

“Go get him!” Pinkie Pie cheered forth in giving Ben some encouraging words.

“We’ll be okay.” Fluttershy stated off to say about their safety will be nothing to worry about.

“Alright girls, let’s do this.” Twilight stated off as they are getting ready to face off against Longblade, just as Ben uses his Pegasus Boots to zip on through.

“As if I’m letting Ben Mare get pass me like…what?” Longblade was about to go after Ben, but he was stopped by flames & by two baby Dragons nearby circling him.

“Sorry…” Phobos spoke off with a sly smile on his face.

“No can do!” Spike shook his head off that this guy is staying put.

“You’re dealing with us!” Adult Nyx declared in stating that this guy won’t be going after anyone.

"All of us!" Starlight Glimmer pronounced forth in casting a magic barrier to stop the guy's sword swings from attacking those in the way.

“Grrr…” Longblade growls in getting himself ready as did the Mane Six & the others; time to face off against this next tough Dark Mystic.

While Longblade was distracted, Tech yelped to quiver when Ben showed up with his Master Sword & Hyrule Shield summoned forth. Ben came near a kneeling Shadow Dragon, as he slowly stood up to stand on his own four hooves to stare down across the field and at Ben.

“Well then Ben…it looks like…this fight was bound to come.” Shadow Dragon stated off calmly in seeing that this fight was destine to happen sooner or later when his undercover task was done. “But be warn, I’m letting you fight me without my Element of Darkness to back me up & the injuries I’ve already substance from Rufus's little surprise new spell…well…they’ll be your handicap.” As he issued this off, he used what little Dark Mystic magic to summon his own non-element base sword similar to sword bask in darkness.

“You’re gonna regret giving me such a handicap, TRAITOR!” Ben snapped off to call Shadow Dragon what he is, someone who betrayed their friendship to bring harm to Ponyville, to the whole Rainbow Kingdom is unacceptable.

Soon the Mane Six & Ben begin their own battles against their own foes here. All while Tech was quietly watching this from a safe view as he did not wish to get hurt or bruise in any sorta way.

“Who would have guessed that we be here? Our long awaited duel has come at last?” Shadow Dragon spoke this off in stating such matters.

“Gee, glad I gave you something to look forward to!” Ben remotely stated as his & his enemy’s blades clash close to another in a gridlock position.

“We shouldn’t be adversaries. Lord Dark Curse would show you mercy to those you care for, if you join us.” Shadow Dragon issued off testate this statement of a proposal.

“You think I follow your example of turning my back on everyone for power! You see that I’m not like that!” Ben snapped off to issue this protest.

“Perhaps your younger friends could make you give me, a different response.” Shadow Dragon issued off in what he could do; target those that are colts & fillies to make Ben corporate.

“You know, I was beginning to think I know who you truly were, behind this dark appearance. But it’s impossible!” Ben exclaimed off to shake his head in being upset & angry over what he was hearing. “The stallion who was like my mentor could never be as vile as you!” Ben snapped off in quoting this remark about who he believe Shadow Dragon to be as Chase.

“You mean Chase the Warrior or my old name; Dragon Hope? My former self was weak. So it’s fair to say, my present self…destroyed my old self.” Shadow Dragon exclaimed coldly of his words here.

“Then I will avenge the death of who you once were in his name.” Ben gave a cold stare in glaring at Shadow Dragon.

“Really, revenge is not the way Ponyville does. Isn’t it the place where Friendships can be formed between others?” Shadow Dragon remotely stated to harshly rub dirt on how Ponyville is a place, to make friends & Ben was gonna take revenge; it seems odd?

“You…Are No Friend!” Ben harshly exclaimed in seeing the dark motion about where Shadow Dragon is to him as they both pushed off a distance to get ready.

Once the chat was over, Ben was striking with his Master Sword against Shadow Dragon’s blade. They were striking fearsomely in their blows, before Ben summoned the Boomerang Gale to swing off that blown Shadow Dragon backwards. Then Ben used the Hover Boots to rush upwards & switch to the Iron Boots to swing down his Megaton Hammer that press Shadow Dragon down into the ground while he managed to defend. Ben flipped over to change to the Master Sword to strike, as he & Shadow Dragon were in a lock state, before the enemy pushed the hero backwards to swing a few strikes. Their continued slashing at each other continued for what seem like mere minutes, both giving it their all. But it seem that Ben was showing some signs of having some difficulty while Shadow Dragon was slowly getting an uphold before the guy used a free hoof to punch Ben in the gut to fall on the ground on his front side with his back exposed. Ben suddenly switch to his next equipment, the Pegasus Booty, as he used his speed to escape Shadow Dragon’s sight & the guy turn to look at where Ben was striking.

“LIGHT ARROW/Powfruvhmm…” Then Ben struck his Master Sword to block the enemy’s blade, but summoned his Hero’s Bow to fire a charge arrow of light.

“Prussfruvhmmm…GRUAARRUGHH!” Shadow Dragon let off a cry of pain as the dark boost given by Lelouch felt itself disappearing from that attack of light that destroys darkness.

Shadow Dragon seem to be down as Ben was seen across the battle field as he turn to gaze down at his opponent that lost that gift from Lelouch.

“Gwwaaugh…You've improved well, Ben. Very improve.” Shadow Dragon exclaimed off in what he’s seen.

“I learned from the best, even though you're my enemy.” Ben stated off to say this in a dry remote claim.

“There's one thing you haven't learn.” Shadow Dragon exclaimed to say this unseeing a Corridor Of Darkness appear.

“What's that?” Ben asked off with narrow eyes.

“Watch your leg.” Shadow Dragon narrow his eyes with a sly tone.

Ben looked down before he found his leg wrapped by a slithering wrapping tongue. He turned & found familiar Hydragoon chuckled in amusement that came from the portal that vanished.

“Dragoking!” Ben yelped in seeing who was here, but why & why is he stopping him from reaching Shadow Dragon.

“I see you already know about Dragoking The Hydra, my personal pet.“ Shadow Dragon issued off in introducing someone Ben is quite familiar with..

"PET!?" The rest of the gang responded off shock while everyone delay with their own share of problems, but seriously: who keeps a giant creature like that as their pet; sure Pinkamena's got a Kirin, but come on now!

"Wait a second, Anakonda said her father was remaining loyal to someone....does that mean...?" Twilight was putting the two together to realize something; they met Dragoking during the rescue mission of the Serpent Clan, but to learn of who the creature serve to be loyal was a real shocker.

"Dragoking's loyalty to someone was to an enemy!" Ben finished off to say this in being shocked; Dragoking was serving Shadow Dragon, the same guy whose group attacked & harm the Serpent Clan, why?

“If you’re wondering, the attack on Dragoking’s home & species was beyond my knowing. So don’t take it personally in where he only helps his master.” Shadow Dragon briefly filled in the void about the certain stuff of having no part of having Dark Mystics attack the home of the Serpent Clan.

“Oh that’s just great…Now I really do hate you a lot!” Ben rolled his eyes in glaring between Shadow Dragon & Dragoking in having learn what else came out of nowhere.

“Humph…it can’t be helped. If you had given him the 100 meals after five times you escaped him, you wouldn't be his favorite.” Shadow Dragon smirked off to make a light joke about the situation for Ben.

Just when Ben was about to retort back, Dragoking roared as he pulled his tongue back. Forcing Ben to make a loud yelp cry when he was lifted high in the air while the hungry predator shook his tongue hard to raffle Ben up. Then Dragoking growls to glance at Ben while licking his mouth happily with drool coming out. 

“Not again!” Ben yelps in knowing where this is going.

“Dinner... Time…” Dragooning spoke with a clear EDnglish accent.

Dragoking used his tongue in throwing Ben up as the stallion screamed in fear when fell straight into the Hydragoon's mouth. Hydragoon swallowed Ben up into his long neck to his stomach.

“Hugh… I don't know why you're stubborn in wanting to eat him a lot.” Shadow Dragon sighs in seeing this action.

A wild Dragon roared in anger was heard before Dragoking turned & found Nightclaw flew straight to Dragoking. Nightclaw then bite on the Dragoking's neck tight while growling in anger as the black Fury Dragon pulling to tearing the Hydragoon's neck out hard & fierce. Before that would happen, two sword beams slash across Dragoking’s neck before a hook shot was fired, & the black Fury Dragon saw it to swoop in, grab it & chuck it hard that pulled Ben Mare out while giving the Hydragoon a seriously bad coughing issue.

“Cough, cough…thanks for the save Nightclaw.” Ben coughs a bit from having been pulled out in the nick of time as the two soon landed on the ground.

Shadow Dragon glared at another annoyance before Dragoking managed to slowly reseal his sliced small cut on the neck, but Shadow Dragon somehow figured Ben made sure the Hydragoon would not grow an extra head in how he sliced his way free. But none the less, Dragoking growled in anger in glaring at Ben & Nightclaw in what they did.

With Hydragoon's head torn out, the black Fury Dragon howled in concern.

“I get the feeling he's still not happy about it.” Ben remotely stated in seeing what’s going on.

“Yes, he's not. If he had not interfered in his spring hunt, you wouldn't be in this mess.” Shadow Dragon was making off another excuse about what got under Dragoking’s scaly skin.

“Hey, I said sorry for it.” Ben snapped off in this own defense.

“No matter. Time to see whose Dragon will win.” Shadow Dragon issued off to see whose side will come on top.

“We won't lose!” Ben snapped off in stating this.

Soon a new conflict was going on, as it was two skilled swordsmen stallions & their Dragon type comrades duking it out. Flames blazing, swords clashing, much of it was blur out as the camera zoom upwards.

Everything fades out from what’s going on here while other matters are being dealt upon.

---------------

At this time while Ben & the Mane Six were dealing with their own share of foes to face against, another event was happening. Such like many Dark Mystic Soldiers that were facing Azure were being massacred down to size, even any reinforcements the enemy got. As the Commander of the bunch gazes at the Kirin while only few of his soldiers are still standing with emotions of anger & hate.

“After all our planning, only to be ruined….by a Kirin!" The Dark Mystic Commander snapped off in fury, one measly Dragon stop a whole army of them.

“Commander, we should pullback, we can’t win!” A lieutenant spoke to his commander that they need to pull back.

“Never! I refuse to give up, I’ll see to my end before then!” The Dark Mystic Commander protest to say this in not going to quit until the end.

“Finishing you off would be nothing but a waste of time…I will grant you this chance to escape if you value your lives.” Azure spoke off to slowly gaze down at the only ones left before him.

“You expect me to accept sympathy from a race that’s nearly Extinct?” The Dark Mystic Commander snapped off to say this in not gonna be given mercy from a race that’s almost wiped out.

“My race…is not gone…even by the might of the War-God, we’ve driven ourselves to escape & live on to this very day!” Azure declared forth that they will survive & continue even if they nearly face certain doom.

“Heh, escape is right, you were probably nothing to the mighty War-God, Grimmore!” The Dark Mystic Commander laughed off in taunting the enemy to get under its scales.

“I heard the story, the Armor of Grimmore moved on behalf of the Overlord King enter a Kirin’s nest when their slept to obtain their power.” A lieutenant issued to tell his commander about the story of what happened to the Kirins long ago.

“The War-God maybe all powerful, even to a Kirin, but I will strive to make sure none will become victims to those that wish to use our might for evil.” Azure declared forth in stating that he will never again watch a Kirin’s life-force & magic be used for evil purposes.

“You expect us to believe that horse…” The Dark Mystic Commander was about to remark the matter when…

“GROOOAARRRRRUGHHH!” Then without warning, Azure roared right up against the ground Dark Mystics in sounding upset. “You have ten seconds to leave before I decide to have you all..as my next meal!” He issued this off in giving those a chance to flee or get ready to be eaten; doesn’t matter to him what these fools decide.

That made all of the soldiers quiver up with fear while the commander seem to be petrified before…he acted.

“Ugh, fall back….FALLBACK!” The Dark Mystic Commander yelps off before giving the order that they need to quickly fallback at once.

Wasn’t long before the Dark Mystics around Azure were quickly falling back to get the heck away from this Kirin beast. While he sent many Dark Soldiers packing, Azure noticed some flashes from afar & recognized that as the spot where some of his friends are battling.

“Ben & the others are in that direction. I best standby if they need my help.” Azure declared off in noticing that something seems up, he best standby if he’s needed to protect his friends.

Soon Azure opened his giant wings to start flapping them to take a leap off the ground to fly in the air. He shall assist from the air to dive in if his friends are in trouble, but he’ll wait for the right moment. And soon things get blurry while the scene changes again here.

-----------

Suddenly the battle was getting a bit more intense as Ben & Shadow Dragon to follow. But as it seem to be, Ben seem to be having some sorta problem before Shadow Dragon managed to land a magical blow that knock the guy to crash & be halfway buried under some rubble. And even Nightclaw was seen wounded when Dragoking slash a claw mark on the Fury Dragon that made him crash on the ground. During the matter, as the Mane Six were having their own problems trying to take down the tough Longblade, their attention was shifted when they saw Ben was in danger.

“Ben!” The Mane Six called out in seeing that Ben was knocked against some rubble and was trap.

“Don’t look away from me or it’ll be your last!” Longblade stated off to say before charging forth to use his weapon against the mares.

"Watch out!" Starlight Glimmer shouted to warn her friends of what's coming.

Then suddenly, something cut across Longblade's path to stop him in his tracks…it was Kilik; using his pole-rod to halt the enemy’s attack.

“Kilik!” The mares responded in seeing their ally had come to help them out.

“Get to Ben, I’ll deal with this one!” Kilik issued in wanting those to go and help Ben out while he deals with this opponent.

“We’ll stay & help!” Adult Nyx stated that they will help out Kilik.

“Right!” The baby Dragons nodded off in agreement to that plan.

"Twilight, I'll help provide support, you & the others hurry to Ben." Starlight Glimmer stated in what she will do to provide some support while the Mane Six deal with another case.

Now the Mane Six quickly go away from Longblade to try to help Ben out. But of course, the solo Demon General was not about to let his targets slip by.

“You think your chance lessen by these odds?” Longblade remarked off in seeing that Kilik was a fool to think the odds changed with the Mane Six not helping to stop him.

“You will not know until it has been done!” Kilik issued forth to say in getting himself into a battle position here.

Now Kilik & Longblade begin to clash in which while Longblade was expecting to end his target, Kilik was vastly keeping up with the fast-pacing. Both opponents were clashing against with their weapons to defeat the other, but it was no easy manner. They soon force the other backwards to where they stood off in seeing what the other was gonna do next.

“I see, maybe your more worthy to fight then those mares & tiny midgets could!” Longblade stated in seeing that perhaps Kilik is much better to fight against, unlike the Mane Six, Starlight Glimmer, Adult Nyx & their two baby Dragons.

“Who’s he calling a midget?” Phobos snapped off in feeling offended here just now.

“I think us since we're so small.” Spike shrug off to say in knowing that the two are smaller than the ponies.

“Stand clear Nyx, this one will come after you if you’re not careful!” Kilik issued a warning to those aiding him that Longblade will attack any of the others to get rid of any weaklings.

“Right!” Adult Nyx nodded in understanding that as they were all getting ready to fight on against Longblade.

"I'll create as much protection while being on the offense as I can." Starlight glimmer issued in having a glowing horn before firing a spell that almost caught Longblade in a crystal prison.

While Kilik & Adult Nyx’s party take on Longblade, the Mane Six were rushing to arrive at seeing that Ben was needing help against Shadow Dragon; the Dark Mystic may be in a state to give Ben a handicap, but it’s still showing it’s hard to beat the guy.

“It would seem that your thoughts about our ties clouds your judgements & movement. Your anger blinds your focus & you become sloppy. Pity, I was hoping that from all my training & others training you, this be a little more qualify.” Shadow Dragon rolled his eyes off in being somewhat disappointed in seeing that Ben’s old emotion of what they had when he was Chase was interfering with their fight.

“Who says it is?” Ben snapped off in struggling to push himself through his stuck state.

“That’s it Shadow Dragon! You got this!” Tech was cheering from afar in seeing his evil idol was gonna win this.

“Give in Ben, you’ve lost, I’ve won. It must burn you up inside, the pain of not only defeat, but also the lies & being used by me; your mentor you once called friend.” Shadow Dragon was hitting all of the points to get under Ben’s fur to make him feel much disheartened by the emotional fact; that he lost against someone who was both a mentor & friend & one who lied & used him for his own means. Ben growled in having to be told this by Shadow Dragon who was seriously getting under the guy enough that he felt so much anger to lose against….this evil jerk.

“Ben!” Then Twilight’s voice was interrupting where she & her friends were racing in getting ready to face Shadow Dragon.

“We’re coming buddy!” Applejack yelled out in coming to help out now.

“We’re going to save you!” Rarity issued in what they are planning to do here.

“Hang tight, Ben!” Rainbow Dash called out that Ben should hang on while they come help.

“We’re here to help!” Pinkie Pie stated in proudly saying what they are doing.

“Right! We won’t leave you!” Fluttershy nods in trying to be serious here.

“How touching. Maybe I’ll start by showing you that in your current state, your strength in friendship cannot help save those you love. Instead, it'll fuel your anger in what happens next.” Shadow Dragon smiled in seeing this will show Ben that such things to feel connected to those he wants to protect, Ben can’t protect with his current strength.

“Leave them alone!” Ben shouted off in wanting this guy to leave his friends out of their fight.

“Too late! Their weak-devotion to being there for a friend shall lead to their downfall. As you shall learn.” Shadow Dragon smirked off to say that it’s too late, Ben’s friends are here to save him; now they’ll suffer for it. “Dragoking, finish them…” He turn to his loyal Hydragoon to take care of the rest for him as he wants to watch Ben suffer what will happen next.

Dragoking was seen preparing to unleash from his heads it’s multiple form of various attacks; Mystic Dragon Flame, Water Torpedo Blast, Electrical Thunder Surge, Earthquake Destroyer & Metal Bullets. Just as the Hydragoon was about to fire them, Nightclaw reacted fast in seeing a chance opening & fired a rapid version of its shots right into Dragoking’s attacks. “Kapoofruvhmm…” The sudden interruption caused an unexpected chain reaction, Dragoking’s attacks imploded within the separate mouths of his five on attacks. Then in a sudden motion to protect Ben & the others, Nightclaw dived upwards to perform a powered up shot at close range to the central head. “PUSHVM…/Kablamfruvhmm…” That sudden action caused a large enough explosive shockwave to knock the Hydragoon backwards with a small wailing sound as it fell backwards in being completely stun while Nightclaw crash on the ground as both beast serving their masters were temporally down.

“No…Dragoking!” Shadow Dragon exclaimed in what he saw, his loyal pet was knock out; Dragoking won against the Fury Dragon, but Nightclaw pulled out his last ounce of strength for at least one final shot to change the outcome.

“Yes…good work Nightclaw!” Ben smiled a bit weakly, Nightclaw maybe down in not standing, but at least Dragoking will not target the others.

“Your Fury Dragon did nothing but delay the editable Ben Mare…if your friends won’t suffer for your lose by others, then it will fall to me instead.” Shadow Dragon remotely exclaimed this to Ben that if his love ones will not die by others he works with, then he’ll have to do it himself.

“No…they treated you like one of us! And you have the nerve to harm them when they opened up to you!” Ben snapped off in wanting Shadow Dragon to spare his friends & love ones, they did nothing but be kind, compassion & wanted to make this guy who was once Chase feel like he belong.

“All is fair in love & war, & in the end…loyalty, friendship, even love do not win in the end.” Shadow Dragon coldly address the matter that in the end, loyalty to one’s friendship & loved ones don’t mean they won anything if they are not taken from them.

And soon Shadow Dragon then was charging off to face a six on one battle against the Mane Six. But off-screen, Ben was still trapped as he heard some screams, cries & battle shouts along with explosions & such. It sounded like Twilight & the others are not fairing too well against Shadow Dragon. Worse of all, the guy was gonna torture them to make Ben feel more angry to let his hate guide him in what he’s gonna do next when Shadow Dragon is done finishing off those he cares for; his family & friends.

“No! What am I doing? I can’t just sit & watch this happen!” Ben shook off his head in trying to get himself out of the ruble to help the others. “Was it really my feelings hurt when I learn the guy who I thought was my friend was more actually my enemy? Was my blind anger making me foolish in front of those that wanted to help me?” He asked from having flash scenes of him & Chase before learning the latter was Shadow Dragon whom the stallion fought at times; two different ponies, good & evil, but one in the same. “I don’t wanna lose them, I don’t wanna lose my friends…those that are…my Real friends. Not pretenders…like him!” Ben snapped off in trying to not give in when he sees those he truly cares for in trouble, he won’t let any old ties to the one call Chase drag him down & take his family & friends with him; NOT A CHANCE!

“Sisisifruvhmmm…” Then without warning, the TriForce mark on Ben glowed to which something happened from all three triangles. A Golden glowing aura appeared & with a familiar horse that appeared before only for Ben to see.

“Epona?” Ben responded in seeing his ancestor that was Link’s travel horse companion all of a sudden. “What’s happening to me…I feel…a sudden rush of strength?” He asked off in not knowing what was going on, he feels himself healing, & his strength increasing, why? Was it cause he has all three of the Triforce Elements; Courage, Wisdom & Power?

Epona let off a horse response that only Ben could follow through.

“You’re saying…I’ve awaken your blood from within. The one that truly ties me with you, Link & the Triforce?” Ben repeated in surprising shock; he’s awaken a bloodline that was something that only those related to Epona & Link have in common. “Then if that’s the case, I only wish for one thing in what I want to use this for…” Ben spoke in wanting to use this new awaken strength of his for something.

Epona awaited an answer, but nodded in knowing full well in what it was…

“TO SAVE MY REAL FRIENDS FROM EVIL'S WRATH!” Ben’s voice announced as everything went blank for a second.

At this time, Shadow Dragon was now standing over a beaten Mane Six. Even though the guy’s element is shutdown & he’s weaken much, the Equestrians are still no match against him.

“You…won’t win…” Twilight struggled to speak in trying to stand up along with her friends.

“I’m afraid…I already have.” Shadow Dragon smiled off to say as he gets his sword ready to deliver the final blow.

“Clashfruvhmmm….” Then without warning, Shadow Dragon’s blade was stopped by an inch away from Twilight’s spot by something…

“What!?” Shadow Dragon yelped in widen eyes in seeing someone stop him; & once more…seems even more shock at by who. It was Ben Mare, but his body was healed up, once more, his TrfForce Mark was glowing to give him a golden coat flow of which was a warm, gentle, calm aura that surrounded his body along with the Master Sword & Razor Edge. "The Triforce....the pieces he's reclaimed, they are reacting, but why? This does not make sense!" The guy was lost, he knows that Ben has reclaim his lost Wisdom & Power for the Triforce, but this feeling...there was something else happening.

“Shadow Dragon, you can beat me until I’m black & blue all over…” Ben was talking down to Shadow Dragon while he was pushing the guy’s sword away from Twilight. “But if you think I’m going to sit by & watch you hurt those I truly care about…Who truly show more of what it means to be having Friendship than you’ll ever know, then it’s time I show you what THAT strength can do!” Ben yelled off against his now rival foe that he’ll show Shadow Dragon that what he says was weakness will now bite back.

Suddenly, a background music called ‘V-Volt (Short Battle Version)’ from the Pokemon XY Series. Everyone was watching in seeing something was happening.

“HURRHRAAAHRAAAUGHHH!” Suddenly, a spiritual form of Epona was seen behind Ben’s presence in making a loud horse battle cry. “Wrrususfruvhmmm…” Then Ben’s body felt a tiny bit more of something aiding him, as if giving him strength & to surprise his opponent to push the Dark Mystic away from his friends.

“GRRR….It can’t be…” Shadow Dragon was suddenly finding himself being pushed back while witnessing this new show of strength. “His bloodline…has awakened to be in sync with the Triforce than before!” Shadow Dragon exclaimed in seeing the bloodline of Epona awaken with Ben to not only gain more strength to fight, but syncing himself with the Triforce to get stronger.

Song: Dragon, Ghost, Ground, Flying
Poison, Bug, Water, Electric, Rock, Grass, Dark

“KURPOWWFRUVHMMM…/GRRUUAGGH….” Then in a sudden white implosive, Shadow Dragon was pushed further backwards while Ben soon stood in having finally gotten an edge.

Song: Ice, Normal, Fire, Fighting
Steel, Physic, Fairy

“Wha-What just happened?” Tech yelps in looking terrified, when did Ben suddenly get his second wind?

The song reach a pause moment as Ben got himself ready to go into battle again while his opponent was getting his own bearings.

“Am I…seeing things?” Rarity look up closely in wondering if they are all seeing things.

“No ye ain’t, I’ve seen it too!” Applejack shook her head in stating that they are seeing clear as day.

At that moment, the song continues to be heard in the background.

Song: Now then, my adventure starts here, it will take me beyond the light
As I push my way through the rain of tears falling from the heavens

“Wow! Look at Ben glow like that!” Pinkie Pie spoke off in seeing that Ben was looking a bit more heroic then before.

“Oh my, he does look very…glowy!” Fluttershy spoke off surprised by what they are seeing here for a first time.

“Ben must have awaken something more than an object, it was something much stronger than a weapon; his spirit.” Twilight stated in theorizing what it was that Ben has unlock, something that ties by bloodline.

“All I can say is that he looks really cool right now.” Rainbow Dash smirked off proudly in seeing that right now, Ben looks ready to kick things into high gear.

Song: Now then, I’ll work up my courage and go, to surpass my yesterday self
Every encounter on my way is precious
I’m a super excited challenger

“You better be ready, cause now that I’m back on my hooves, I’m not going down again or let a false friendship slow me down!” Ben issued forth to say this in getting himself ready for battle.

“Hmph…even if you’ve awakened your bloodline of Epona, you stand no chance against me even with this next feat of strength boost.” Shadow Dragon remarked off in not feeling much intimidation or fear from seeing this.

Song: I have dreams that will definitely come true one day

Soon Shadow Dragon dashed forth to prepare a swing of his sword, & then in a quick response, Ben soon dash off with his Pegasus Boots to charge against his opponent. “Claspoowwfruvhmmm…/Puwwfruvhmmm…” Two swords were crossing to where both opponents were in a deadlock before they both repel back the other to skid near a side of the field, evenly match.

Song: That’s what you taught me, and indeed, that’s why I’m journeying

“They’re equal in terms of power now! Neither yielding to the other!” Twilight responded in surprise, both Ben & Shadow Dragon are now on a new pair of being equals.

“That’s not all I got, get ready to check out a new move!” Ben issued off in stating that he’s gonna really show his stuff now. “Swords Spin Force!” He issued forth a new name to a new move he’s gonna unleash.

Song: Red Bonds connect us in a circle and expand,
Likewise, my spirit spreads out, reaching everyone

Soon was using his two swords; Master Sword & Razor Edge, held them cross against his chest, & began to spin around. Soon he was taking the form of a cyclone form & there was a tiny flash happening within. “Puwfruvhmmm-Puwfrusvhmmm…” Suddenly, Ben’s move fired off Sword Beams from both swords that move swiftly to almost catch someone off guard.

“Clashhfruvhmmm…” But Shadow Dragon used his own sword to block the two Sword Beams. “Powwfruvhmmm…” Both attacks that clash created a tiny cloud burst of smoke, but Shadow Dragon felt something off. 

Song: Blue is our planet and it’s hope shines bright;
Yellow flowers blossom

“Their stronger somehow. As if sharpen with more fighting spirit with speed & power.” Shadow Dragon stated in having seen this technique for a first time to understand it from the Sword Beams; it’s given Ben a boost somehow.

“Frusssfruvhmmm…” Then without warning, Ben was seen dashing through the smokescreen to attack with a third strike intended.

“Whaaaat!” Shadow Dragon yelped in seeing this, Ben had another move ready on hand when he was defenseless after knocking the first two attacks.

“Slaassshhfruvhhmmm…” Then Ben delivered a cross-slash with his two swords close together to make a single big blade to deliver some extra damage count.

“Guuwwaaaaughhh!” Shadow Dragon let off a yelp gasp cry in what had happened to him while in a slow motion.

Soon Ben was seen across the field from after he landed a blow against his opponent. Just as the song was pausing to bring to its final closure…

Song: Dragon, Ghost, Ground, Flying
Poison, Bug, Water, Electric, Rock, Grass, Dark
Ice, Normal, Fire, Fighting
Steel, Physic, Fairy

“How was it….hope it was impressive for you…Chase.” Ben utter quietly with his voice as he ushered the name that Shadow Dragon used; now letting him taste what Ben Mare has truly learn.

Silence soon filled the air as no one made a sound while the shadowy forms of Shadow Dragon on the left & Ben Mare on the right stood from where the latter attacked the former.

“Gaaaugh-haahh…Gaaaugh!” Shadow Dragon was letting some tiny gasp before suddenly yelping as he soon drop down on his kneels & dug his sword into the ground for support.

At that moment, the background music begins to cease being heard at this time. But for many that were seeing it, & even the other Dark Mystics, they couldn’t believe it…Shadow Dragon was down…by Ben!

Meanwhile from afar at this very moment. Lelouch & Celtic watch the scenery from above a hill while seeing what occurred surprised them, Ben has somehow turn the battle & left Shadow Dragon in a state of injury.

“No….I will not let it end here.” Lelocuh snapped in about to do something, but…

“No, you have done enough as it is. It is time we leave.” Celtic place her hoof on this guy to cease, their actions in what’s occurring is already expired.

“You dare give me orders?” Lelouch glared at this time witch for daring to tell him what he can & can’t do.

“As of now, I can sense other allies arriving. If you stay to interfere anymore, then you will have to deal with both a large gathering of Element Users, plus an entire army of Mystics. Many of which are Ultimate Warrior Rank & beyond, do you wish to take the chance while still licking your own wounds?” Celtic explained the logic of hat will be occurring soon, that more allies for Ben’s group will arrive & if they join together, even Lelouch won’t be able to escape such a battle without suffering more scratch wounds to his already injured state from what Kilik’s sacred mirror did to him.

“Grrr…” Lelouch growls in fury in clutching the burn marks in hating to admit it, but Celtic was right; the invasion has drag on too long, the side of evil will not last & with more allies arriving including the Mystics, they will no doubt engage him with their best warriors. “Fine, you convince me, lets leave the rest to them.” Lelouch exclaimed off to say this in a dry tone.

“Indeed, for the late enemy arrival will show up to cause some attention focus & then of course…there is other things that will serve to aid the side of evil.” Celtic explained the little basic notes of what will happen before another event shall take place that will aid the forces of evil.

Without warning, Lelouch & Celtic vanish from sight knowing they were not about to risk sticking around in what comes next. And returning back to what is currently going on is that many are still absorbing the fact of Shadow Dragon’s sudden fall…by the one student he never expected to out due him; Ben Mare.

“No way! Shadow Dragon can’t be beat!” Tech gasped off in seeing this, this can’t be real, can it? “This doesn’t count, on so many reasons & because of the handicap!” He was protesting in saying that cause Ben got the handicap when Shadow Dragon was badly hurt from Rufus's special spell in causing the guy's dark element being shutdown & still wounded, this victory shouldn’t count.

“Aw shut it, mama’s colt!” Phobos snapped off at Tech for being a whinier of all thing,; like they even care for the small stuff.

“How can this be, Ben Mare’s strength has gone up! He hasn't even awaken any Mystic Forms in order to stop Shadow Dragon?” Longblade questioned off in seeing that someone like Ben has managed to push Shadow Dragon this far.

"That's because he's unlock something...the strength of friendship." Starlight Glimmer issued off to state this to their foe in Longblade; what Ben has done was brought forth strength of friendship to turn the tide.

“Grr….clearly, I’ve underestimated you Benjamin, to not only see your bloodline awaken, but to use a new move I never knew, I was off guard by such remarkable surprises.” Shadow Dragon spoke off in having seen it with his own eyes that Ben has brought out such new strength in such a short amount of time.

“And now, we can finally say it’s over…” Ben declared off in saying that with this, it’s over and he’s won.

“I wouldn’t be so certain.” A voice matching Twilight was heard that made everyone feel puzzled and confused all a sudden.

Then without warning, a Corridor of Darkness opened near Shadow Dragon, & out of it came someone in a familiar hooded cloak getup. And as she stood in front to defend Shadow Dragon, her hood was push back to reveal it was…

“Twilight Moon!” Twilight & the others responded in seeing that the one who looks like Twilight was here.

“Oh great, now the Apocalypse Ponies are getting involved.” Spike slapped his forehead in seeing that they got more foes coming up to greet them.

“You…shouldn’t have come.” Shadow Dragon groans to say this about this mare coming to help him.

“You shouldn’t have fought with such odds.” Twilight Moon narrow her eyes to remark off that Shadow Dragon was fighting with bad odds of no Element of Darkness & was wounded from his body being burned by Rufus' new Element LightBurst Alchemy Spell.

“Indeed, had you fought to your full strength, this loss would not have happened.” Tso Lan’s spirit appeared behind Twilight Moon in stating how such matters have turn out here.

“Enough Tso Lan, we’re taking Shadow Dragon and leaving this place.” Twilight Moon issued off in what they are gonna be doing here.

“You think after all this time, the attacks, the misery, the lies he pulled, that I’m going to let him walk off without answering for his crimes?” Ben spoke off to say in getting ready to take on this Twilight lookalike to make sure Shadow Dragon pays up for his evil deeds.

Meanwhile, a stomping sound was heard as many saw the fallen Hydragoon was finally back on its feet for being temporally knockout by that stunt Nightclaw did to it. And soon Dragoking let off a snarl to growl before his weaken master in about to defend him from anyone that dares approach him. The gang stood their ground as they hate to fight Anakonda's father who helped the Serpent Clan in the past, but Shadow Dragon's group was the cause of it, but now...now things are just confusing...

“Perhaps you should learn to stop when your chances are still high.” Spoke another voice that was heard in the distance that no one seem to be familiar with.

“Who said that?” Ben asked off in not knowing who it was that was speaking towards them, was it friend or an enemy?

“You best be careful Ben. You’re about to meet a real nightmare.” Shadow Dragon spoke off to simply say this much in knowing clearly well of who has started to come now of all times. “For now…Kishin Akuma comes.” He ushered off in knowing who’s coming here & it won’t be pleasant.

Before Ben could ask what Shadow Dragon meant or who the heck was that character supposed to be…something began to happen. Some dark portal erupted from the ground behind Shadow Dragon & Twilight Moon, as it seem to erupt from below. But in truth, something was seen appearing from it as it was slowly making its way across to be seen. All eyes begin to stare forth at some new face that was coming from some dark nexus type of transportation to be presented. It looks like while everyone may have dealt with the invading Dark Mystic Army & brought down Shadow Dragon, looks like a new threat is just arising…

> Chapter 06: Things Are Just Getting Started
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 06: Things Are Just Getting Started


At this time, scenery show the invasion by the Dark Mystics was foiled & that Ben managed to land a blow that about ended in Shadow Dragon’s defeat. However, not only with the appearance of Twilight Moon & Dragoking make something difficult…but it was seeing a new figure of an enemy entering the scene. From some light, the new enemy look like some Dark Mystic Earth Pony who’s appearance look similar to Azure Phoenix, but he was all dark fur color,a dark gray Chinese style mane, beard & mustache, & red eyeballs with yellow eyes with a demonic black pupil diamond-shape in the center. He wore on a purple clad of armor, a long red cape and golden hoof-wear, appearing as someone of a diligent manner of a warrior of a strong impression. His Cutie Mark was something like a family symbol with Bat Wings & Demon Long Sword to state his talent. This character, this individual, he was the one know…as Kishin Akuma.

“Ohhohohohhhh….man! He’s actually here…in the flesh!” Tech yelped in fear in seeing and recognizing the Dark Mystic.

“Well this is just perfect, now he’ll steal all the worthy opponents!” Longblade rolled off his eyes in seeing this guy will take all the fun out of this battle.

“What do you mean?” Kilik questioned to stare at Longblade as their match has yet to be settle with neither one winning here.

“You’ll see pretty soon.” Longblade remotely stated in what will happen very soon.

Golden Heart’s party were arriving on the scene when they to saw who was just ahead of their pals with the near defeated Shadow Dragon.

“New enemy has entered.” Omega issued in identifying the new enemy that has come into the picture.

“Who is this guy, you know Golden Heart?” Jack Zen asked off towards Goldie if he might know the enemy.

“The only thing I can say is that he seems like trouble.” Golden Heart stated with stern eyes in seeing who they have to deal with now.

“Sombra, Autumn Gem, you better stay out of this one.” Pinkamena spoke in being serious here, something about this guy she don’t like & is trying to keep a few that aren’t ready or easily vulnerable out of it.

Adult Nyx & the baby Dragons help up the Mane Six up while slowly recovering their injuries they suffered against Shadow Dragon while Starlight Glimmer was standing on guard for any attackers. But of course, their eyes were glued on who was here right now.

“Okay, who’s the new guy?” Phobos asked off rudely in who was now making himself know; a new enemy.

“I don’t know, but he looks familiar.” Adult Nyx raised an eyebrow in seeing this new foe…kinda has a splitting image to Azure Phoenix.

“I’m not sure, he seems to give me the creeps.” Spike stated to say in not liking who this guy was, not one bit.

"Whoever he is, he seems...different from the others." Starlight Glimmer stated from studying this new face.

At the same time upon his arrival, Kishin Akuma was gazing around the battle that had been dealt upon. Many Dark Mystic Soldiers had fallen or retreated in battle. And as he looked around, he spots the many of those that are before him, such as the Mane Six & Ben & any other heroes that were scattered around to watch this guy’s movements as they got into gear for anything fishy that might come out. But this new foe seem to not flinch or seem concern over what has transpired, even in looking behind to seeing a kneeled Shadow Dragon while Twilight Moon was near him. 

“So….you are the warriors who defeated these Warriors of Darkness.” Kishin Akuma spoke off in looking around now while staring at only the main heroes before him. “Humph….some of you are hardly worth my praise. You can only gain my pity & disappointment.” He huffed off to say in watching those here while stepping on the heroes pride that they are a disappointment even after defeating so many Dark Mystics that were but mere Soldiers.

“Hey! Are you the right to criticize us?” Rainbow Dash snapped off in feeling offended.

“Right, in case ye miss it, we took down yer pals!” Applejack remarked off in making the guy see what they did.

“And it was no easy feat!” Rarity sternly objected that taking on soldiers of the Dark Mystics ain’t easy.

“Um, right...what they said.” Fluttershy shyly spoke in trying to be brave here.

“Right, how dare you say we’re a disappointment,” Pinkie Pie protest to say in feeling that was just man for the guy to say.

“Your petty squabbles mean nothing, what are you hoping to achieve by pushing forward so far?” Kishin Akuma remarked off in not being bothered by such manners from what others were saying.

“Hey, hey, just who the heck is this guy?” Bickslow asked off in getting ticked off in paying attention to some guy acting like mister BIG shot.

“We best be careful, I have Memory of this one.” Rufus spoke in being serious to watch this opponent to study him very carefully. “Kishin Akuma, once an ordinary Equestrian known as ‘Fool of Owari’ before he gain the trust & talents of many officers, thus becoming a ‘Lord of Owari’. He wage war against the Imagawa Clan where it led him to the path of conquest by starting to attack his own ‘in-laws’ family, destroying the religions & even innocents & children.” Hearing this made some feel shock to believe that stuff was even true to swallow. “His reputation & abilities made him a good retribution to the Dark Mystic Brethren, while making a terrifying nightmare tale to most of the innocent children as ’the Boogieman’ who feast their blood & flesh for being naughty…” Rufus gaze down in feeling that as of today, folks use this one’s name to scare children to behave or else the evil would come for them.

“What!” Adult Nyx, Spike & Phobos yelped in sounding freaked out in having heard this.

“Wait, I remember that tale! My private teachers use to tell me about him, but I thought it was a story!” Ben stated in recalling this while once believing it was just a story.

“No Ben, he’s very much a real threat.” Celestia explained to her son with a serious face on her expression.

“There is more to his name that I have memorized from reading certain history, but it was also said…he turn down to become a second General under Grimmore’s army. When the War-God took interest in his abilities, Kishin was taken in by Dark Curse.” Rufus spoke in speaking another terrifying matter that long ago, even the great evil known as Grimmore wanted to recruit Kishin Akuma as a general, but he turn down the offer to side with Dark Curse.

“Impressive…to think there was still a tale of my work left behind.” Kishin Akuma spoke off in being surprised that his name rang off for all to remember.

“Sister, what should we do?” Luna asked her sister in what they need to do with such an enemy.

“Everyone listen, we need to be careful with this one.” Celestia spoke off to warn the group about this foe.

“I’ve got the trap to do it!” Bickslow smiled off to say in preparing a trap spell to catch this guy. “Swords of Revealing Light!” As he held out his hooves, swords made of light appeared and surrounded the enemy, keeping him frozen in place.

“Let’s get him!” Jack Zen yelled out in charging forth with some Royal Guards following behind him.

“Wait! You don’t know what you’re doing!” Golden Heart yelled out to warn those about to dive into danger.

Suddenly, Kishin Akuma’s eyes glowed in crimson as if preparing something… “Demon Aura Blast!” Kishin Akuma issued forth in preparing something that was about to be unleashed. Suddenly, Kishin lifted his hooves up & launched his powerful greenish screaming death blast in destroying the traps while blasting backwards Jack Zen & any Royal Guards to the ground hard.

“He busted up that trap!” Bickslow let off a shock expression in seeing what just happened here.

“No way, no way!” The Dolls responded off in being shock in seeing what happened as well.

“Girls, we have to help out!” Twilight stated this off to her friends that the others need help.

“Right!” The Mane Five nodded their heads in agreement there.

Now it was the Mane Six that were about to go in & help those out against this enemy. However, Kishin Akuma noticed the mares coming as he prepares himself to counterattack.

“Shadow Strike Blade!” Kishin Akuma announced forth in preparing for another attack on the targets.

Soon Kishin Akuma charged in & swung his sword Demon King Sword against any targets that he could come across. He first started with the one that gave Shadow Dragon some problem, Ben Mare used the awakened bloodline & his two swords to strike the enemy, but Kishin instead blasted him across to crash against four buildings. And then it was followed by the others he came across: Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Starlight Glimmer, Adult Nyx, Spike, Phobos, Sombra, Autumn Gem, Golden Heart, Pinkamena, Omega, Celestia, Luna, Crash Fire, Snowcrystal, Halon Blade, Senseless Joe & his oddball group, Kilik, Rufus & even the Royal Sisters. As the record showed, Kishin Akuma attacked & knocked them all down to the ground or crashed against stuff while some managed to rebalance themselves to stand while others had some difficulty from what hit them.

“Man, he hits hard!” Crash Fire complained in seeing what kinda serving they got there.

“Is he possibly another Demon General?” Snowcrystal questioned this guy’s strength here.

“No way can those guys beat all of us tough ponies so easily!” Pinkamena remarked off to snap such a question from their minds.

“There is something not right about this foe?” Halon Blade questioned off in seeing how Kishin fights seems…unholy.

“As expected of a stallion that was given the title: Demon King. It was said that around King Sombra’s Era, he was betrayed by one of his retainer: Quicksilver & his nephew: Samanosuke at the Honoji Temple where he died.” Rufus explained more about the history involving this enemy before them.

“Wait, this happened during my era?” Sombra questioned off in having heard this for a first time.

“But…if he’s dead, why does he look alive?” Autumn Gem questioned that if this guy died, how is he here now.

“When 200 years passed, a former Demon General took an interest on him & decided to resurrect him & his loyal deceased warriors as his replacements. He’s very much someone feared that even the Royal Sisters & Discord know him…it’s hard to believe that in appearance & personality, he & Azure Phoenix are almost like Twins of good & evil.” Rufus explained more of the history that was also about to be another shocking thing to discover.

“WHAT!” The gang replied off in having heard what they heard there.

“THIS GUY COULD BE LIKE AZURE PHOENIX’S EVIL BROTHER?” Phobos yelled off in not believing what they heard, imagine if Azure Phoenix even had a brother like this enemy here!

“Guess that explains why he’s so tough.” Spike stated that this guy was about as tough as the Mystic they know.

“Maybe it’s some evil twin thing while not really being siblings at all.” Adult Nyx broke off the Fourth Wall in stating a possible outlook on the subject while Starlight Glimmer moans near the mare from what hit her.

“This guy’s…really…Kishin…Akuma?” Ben sweated a bit in gazing forth in shock of seeing the guy he’s heard about to be said is like a nightmare…seem real. “That strength…what is he…a Demon?! No…” Ben was pretty much lost in his own thoughts and debating that this wasn’t real of who it was that they are facing.

“Humph! Worthless!” Kishin Akuma huffed off in finding this lot to be a disappointment even more. “I barely even used my full power against you. You wouldn’t even be a match against anyone Grimmore gave rank as his General.” He issued off in remarking how those that are said to be strong, are nowhere near to take on him or those that are rank General in the Grimmore Army as they would be around his displayed strength. “Pathetic sight…It is time to finish you off…” He issued off in seeing that he shall end those that dare go against the Dark Mystics.

“Grrr…no!” Golden Heart growls in speaking against such action upon them.

“Systems in need…of repairs.” Omega stated off in seeing that his damage body needs fixing.

“We have to stand back up.” Jack Zen stated in seeing they have to get back up again.

“Right…or we’re all dead meat!” Bickslow spoke off to say in understanding the picture.

“If we die, then we fail in stopping evil from where it stands.” Kilik issued off in knowing what’s at stake here.

“Oh, but this will be too simple for me to deal with you. I will not kill you.” Kishin remarked off in stating this puzzling fact to everyone. “But I will let this be your pain…your suffering…& your nightmare…As you can see, Friendship never has been Magic from the Beginning. Many of you are delusional.” Kishin Akuma was exclaiming that he shall let those suffer this moment to be their waking nightmare & that the hope of friendship to be their magic guide is nothing but a hoax.

“No! You’re wrong!" Starlight Glimmer spoke forth to defend against the matter.

"She's right! Friendship is Magic! I’ve seen it happen from here to another world!” Twilight protest to say that what Kishin said about Friendship not being magic…is wrong.

“Twilight Sparkle speaks true about the concept you seem to not know anything about.” Luna remarked off to protest the statement in what was about friendship not being magical.

“It is also the reason why the Elements of Harmony, the symbol for Friendship, choose’d her & her friends.” Celestia stated off to explain how the Mane Six first develop & were chosen by elements that represent harmony among friends.

“Is that so then? I hardly notice it at all.” Kishin smirked in taking in the protest remarks that everyone gave him about saying there was no magic in friendship. “Then why is it, that despite such things, Shadow Dragon remains loyal to our brethren.” He asked off this next question to see if anyone could even answer it.

“Because of….because of…” Ben was about to protest in why Shadow Dragon is with the enemy, but…he did a second thought to realize, he doesn’t have much a case in making a claim.

“Ben/Father?” Twilight & Adult Nyx softly call to Ben in seeing he was having a hard time reacting to the question.

“What folly…it proves that Friendship can never save anyone’s lives, but to doom themselves. A pity, truly a pity…” Kishin shook his head in seeing the sight of those that cannot get over the question are as foolish as expected. “But rest assure, little ponies; once I am through, I will have your blood to be my drink, a toast to your failure & defeat.” He ridiculed off to say this in what shall befall those that go against him. “Now see if you can survive my wrath. Demon Wrath!” He announced forth in about to prepare one more move to end things here…

Now Kishin’s body glows darkly as he levitates in midair while creating & enlarging the power of darkness, yet forming a Demoniacal sphere. Then he lets it drop & started to fall straight to the ground in where the lying heroes lay wait.

“Time to use… Tiid Klo Ul! Slow Time!” Then Azure spoke his voice out as everything slows down as he acted unknown to everyone & appeared just as the dark demoniacal ball came close.

Everyone felt at odd in what was happening, before no one saw a large claw paw grab the orb & in a blink of an eye, time went back to normal. Everyone was puzzled to look around in seeing that the attack Kishin threw at them didn’t explode on them, weird.

“Um, wasn’t there supposed to be a large giant ball of death to explode & kill us?” Phobos asked off puzzled in why they are not dead yet.

“But how could something that big not have hit us?” Twilight asked off puzzled in what was even going on.

“What’s going on Shadow Dragon, where did that attack go?” Twilight Moon asked off in seeing that attack should have level the heroes.

“It’s strange, only something powerful would be able to stop a move like that.” Shadow Dragon pondered off to question this sight. Even Dragoking was lost in what happened here.

That’s when everyone started to notice a large shadow over their heads, & it look like the form of…a Kirin!?

“Azure, you made it just in the nick of time!” Pinkamena smiled in seeing who it was that help save them in a last second.

Azure slowly flaps his wings to land on the ground while holding back Kishin’s attack from making contact or exploding in a grand scale.

“Well now we know, what became of the attack?” Tso Lan’s spirit head was seen in witnessing what stop Kishin’s attack from destroying the group.

"Is that…a Kirin, Shadow Dragon?" Twilight Moon slowly asked in figuring out what sorta creature was before them. Dragoking growls a bit in seeing some new dragon-type species to be his opponent.

“Yes, I see it & he’s holding the Demonic sphere from making contact.” Shadow Dragon narrow his eyes in seeing that Azure was keeping Kishin’s attack from finishing off his allies & friends.

That really caught some folks off guard as they soon see that Azure has his right paw out as he begins to look at it.

“How’d he managed to catch it? I didn’t even see him move, none of us saw how he did it?” Twilight questioned off how Azure, a Kirin type dragon, pulled off such a save.

“Like I said, Kirin's will amaze you more ways than one!” Pinkamena smiled off to happily explain that answer for everyone to know about. “Um, Azure, do you mind dealing with that orb thing, please?” She asked off in wanting her dragon pal to deal with that attack of Kishin.

“As you wish.” Azure nodded off in having heard the words of his mistress.

Then as Azure stands on his hind legs, he then presses the orb with both his claws & the orb implodes…. But the great shock force of its explosion was being contain & the energy was being absorbed by the Kirin. Soon he begins to glow all over his body, then he goes back on all fours while the glow work vanishes.

“Hehe….I did a bit of work & he can Absorb magic as well.” Pinkamena giggled a bit in stating what else the Kirin was capable of doing. “I got this inspired by a big bulky animatronic called Shadow Freddy from Five Nights at Freddy’s MLP style.” She went off to break the Fourth Wall in having said where she got such a random idea.

That makes everyone puzzled why crickets are heard in the background. Things begin to quiet down a bit when the random pony saw what was going on.

“Heheh….I still love it when you all get surprised by such random stuff that makes no sense.” Pinkamena giggled at seeing the silly faces everyone was giving her.

“Demon Speed!” Kishin spoke off in preparing to strike again when his foes least expect it.

Then before anyone even knew it, Kishin Akuma was seemingly using a Demonic, yet hyper powered speed technique. “SLASH-SLASH-SLASH, SLASHSLASHSLASHFRUVHMMM…” Within the blurs seen, he was striking with his sword that was actually cutting through the Kirin’s hard body. “GROOOAARRRROUGHHHH!” Azure let off a monstrous roar of sounding in pain, much of himself seem to have taken in much damage on his gigantic body. 

“AZURE!” Pinkamena screamed out in seeing her friend was hurt & look ready to fall…

“Uh oh….I think we know dat’s coming next!” Spike spoke in noticing that Azure’s position seems to be tipping towards…them.

“Right…the Giant Dragon Timber routine. RUUUUUN!” Phobos slowly nodded off before yelling at the top of his lungs at what comes next.

“Cloupwwfruvhmmm-Poowwfruvhmmm….” Soon Azure’s giant size Dragon body landed on the ground backwards while causing a terrain-size quake that shook everything in sight; even gave everyone else the jumpy feeling.

Smoke had covered everything, there were a few coughs heard here & there. Ben struggles to pull himself up a bit after everyone survived that Demon Wrath attack & a falling Kirin…only to stop when someone levitated near him: Kishin Akuma.

“Ready to enter your worst nightmare?” Kishin Akuma issued off in preparing to make Ben’s world…one living nightmare.

Ben was frozen with fear as he wanted to pull up his Hyrule Shield, but his body wasn’t moving…he was going to perish before a Demon… “Thruspvhmm…” Just then, Kishin’s right hoof was bounce off from touching Ben’s flesh as it was…covered in some vibrating force.

“Sound Armor!” Spoke off a grouchy voice from the distance.

“That voice….is that…Zebura?” Ben suddenly snap his senses in recognizing that voice to look around to find his last minute rescuer; of all ponies too?

“Darn You….YOUR CHOP FULL OF COCKINESS!” Zebura’s voice was heard snapping off from which shook the area in sounding extremely upset.

Suddenly, the background was playing ‘Transformers Cybertron Theme Instrumental (Extended Battle Version)’ to really jam up the event cooking here. And we soon spot Zebura on top of a hill, his red crimson aura was blaring up while he lets off a snarling voice as if about to let off much anger in seeing someone was being….COCKY around here!

“Oh, reinforcements. Pity, it’s only one.” Kishin spoke off in being mildly intrigued, but was not phase by a new opponent to face him.

“Not just him!” Pinkamena’s voice interrupted to say without warning…

“Frussvhmm….Boommfruvhmm….” Then a Blades of Pinkie Pie were tossed near Kishin’s spot just as he lean backwards to avoid it. And soon entering the fray was Pinkamena, only she was in her Element Form - Aging. And she wasn’t alone, Crash Fire transformed into his Scar-Red Nova form, Snowcrystal transformed into her Ice Maiden form, even Halon Blade transformed into Sword Blade. From a get-go look, four superpower up ponies were now standing against Kishin & to protect their pal Ben from being harmed.

“You thought we were down, but we’re not!” Scar-Red Nova snapped off to say in letting his firry aura burn to temperatures to really burn the whole area here.

“This time, we’re ready!” Ice Maiden issued forth in stating that this foe be ready, for it’s about to become a cold frozen wasteland when she’s in play.

“Let us see how sharp your blade really is! Against a Sword that IS Destructive…” Sword Blade issued forth in holding his large sword & suddenly was having it glow with much charge energy.

Then something was seen flying in the skies that landed across the area for everyone to notice. Then rising up from it was a familiar Flying Sky Serpent creature: Cubellios & on top of her head was…Anakonda!

“You harm my friends, & you shall face…Anakonda! Hisses….” Anakonda issued this threat while letting off a snake hiss in sounding serious.

Dragoking yelped upon seeing those that were here as those that were apart of the Serpent Clan & were also…family.

Then suddenly, many flapping bats were seen across the night skies before gathering around to…transform into…Vampire Ponies! And leading this group was the known Ruler of all Monsters: NeoVamde!

“If you value the life of the living, then leave before you join the land of the dead.” NeoVamde threatened this foe that if he wishes to not lose the only life he’s got now, he should heed the warning.

Then something was popping out a portal that was form that soon came three more figures of the user and pals: Yugo, Hoboken Joe, even Armor Stark in his Buster Armor along with Gemini Sparks.

“Hey guys, hope we’re not too late to help!” Yugo smiled off to say while getting down to being serious.

“Ye done good son, right on time!” Hoboken Joe smiled of in being proud that his boy got them all here from Canterlot.

"Kid's got a good use for portal travel." Armor Stark issued before summoning forth; the Storm Armor as it let lightning surge forth.

"Twins Of Light & Darkness..." Light Gemini Sparks started off to say this...

"Present & accounted for!" Dark Gemini Sparks finished off that claim.

“You big villain shots never get it!” Then entering from a blizzard of snow was...another hero on the scene. “When in doubt, a Hero always arrives in the nick of time!” Snow was then seen entering the area while doing what he always does, showing up just in time for the hero to save the day here.

“Yeah! We’re heroes!” Then Senseless Joe and his oddball pals were popping up in cosplay hero getups.

“You don’t need to pay us, when you need saving." Then suddenly, Ivy was seen near a hill with the rest of the Forgers: Kazeshini, Talim, Tempo, Wildman, Kidd Razor, & Kitana as they all held their weapons to prepare for battle.

“My, my….we have a troublesome enemy! And shooting a low matter about Friendship!” Then another ally was seen hovering from above while preparing his own Beast Forces to surround from all sides. “Clearly you are the one missing a point here.” Gravi issued off that this enemy was like him, he did not see the truth in the value of Friendship & it shall be a costly one at that.

“Yo, am I too late to help a bro. out?” Then Z-Strap was seen nearby in arriving on the scene with metallic wings that he flew on to get here.

“Nope! We’re here to whip ourselves into shape!” Jones Venture spoke in arriving by whipping himself across some trees to get here to help.

“We came to offer aid in where we all shall stand.” Then Azuma along with the Clone Six appeared from near a hill side as Azuma made many of his clones reaching 5000 to which they all shall attack together.

“If this guy thinks I’m letting him hurt my sister & friends, he can think again!” Shining Armor showed up in preparing to help save those he loves.

“Shiny!” Twilight called out in seeing her brother was here all of a sudden.

“Don’t worry Twilight, we’re here to help you all!” Cadance was seen along with Mangani as they were helping to heal the wounded warriors of justice.

“We’re also here too!” Appearing was Flash Tiger, she, Shadow Cat, Flower Dog & their family group are here. They too are ready to offer help to protect their friends.

“No way was I missing this concert’s closing.” Then Johnny Brock appeared from out of nowhere as he’s gonna rock out in this battle.

“You who speak of wanting war, shall not start one here!” Magnus then hovers by his magnetic powers in about to show the villain what war casualties lead to.

"Oh, but if it's a beat down, then he just WALKED into one alright!" Then appearing was Nightwatcher as he whipped out his chain & appearing near him from smoke & dust clouds was Smoke & Dust themselves with Fidget the Nimbat near Dust to look serious.

“You want a piece of this! Kishin Akuma!” Then Tao’s voice was heard from a distance that alerted everyone.

“TAO!” The Mane Six replied in seeing that Tao’s family was here to help them out.

And it wasn’t just Tao’s family, but many Mystic allies that the heroes have met & befriend during some visits or adventures. They all came to help them out in this time of need.

“Megan!” Celestia & Luna responded surprise in seeing that even the human girl of legends, the Mag’ne was on the scene & stare off against Kishin.

“Look around you Kishin, you say Friendship has no Magic, but from where I’m standing…THIS…is the Magic that brings all our friends together to help one another out!” Megan declared forth in looking around her area in seeing that if friendship had no magical power, then this evidence proves otherwise.

Soon loud cheers from Warriors, Mystics & Element Users are heard along with some normal Equestrians. And for some, their magical auras were shooting up like sky rockets in preparing to go all out on Kishin that it even shook the entire foundation of the field. Even Ben was surprised to see that this…was a sign of those that are truly…his friends. At the same time, the background music finally reach its closure now.

“Sweet Buttercup….LOOK AT THEM ALL! WE’RE DEAD IF WE STICK AROUND!” Tech yelps in staring in wide eye shock terror, they can’t fight THAT many tough heroes & Mystics at once; its suicide!

“Ha ha ha…Most impressive.” Kishin Akuma laughs off in finding this somewhat amusing him. “One thousand opponents. One thousand burials. Hah! An army of equal sides or not does not mean you are a match for Kishin Akuma…Prepare yourselves…to fall!” He was preparing himself that even if an army of both Equestrians & Mystics showed up, he shall gladly take them on.

Just then, Shadow Dragon’s hoof touch Kishin’s shoulder as Twilight Moon watch the injured Dark Mystic seem serious in wanting to discuss something.

“We should withdraw now, our primary objective is complete.” Shadow Dragon silently whispered this to Kishin Akuma that they should not fight after achieving their REAL task. “And there is one among them heroes, I promise Dragoking no harm would come to her or their clan.” He ushered quietly from seeing that with Cubellios & Anakonda present, if any of them are hurt, his pet will seek vengeance on Kishin.

Dragoking leans down to glare at Kishin Akuma to snort off at him, as if saying in his own words ‘touch them, you’re dead-meat’ since he has feelings for those outside of Shadow Dragon & company as…a family he cares for.

“Humph! Very well, but I shall do so & withdraw…for now.” Kishin spoke off in accepting the issue that they withdraw since Shadow Dragon asked it.

“Kishin Akuma!” Then appearing from the Mystics was none other than Azure Phoenix as he gaze down on Kishin Akuma.

“Ah, Azure…surprise to see me?” Kishin spoke off in seeing who was suddenly here all of a sudden.

“More than you know.” Azure Phoenix remotely stated in having to see this particular Dark Mystic was doing his own tricks again in causing such trouble.

“We shall chat again soon, until then…all of you…fallback!” Kishin spoke that the two will have to chat another time as he turns to order all Dark Mystics to fallback; they’re done here.

Soon many of the Dark Mystics remaining soldiers were quickly taking any chances to escape while dragging their out cold buddies with them; any that aren’t dead that is. At the moment, Dragoking soon helps pick up Shadow Dragon while Twilight Moon follows him along, & Tech quickly tries to blend in with the crowd leaving.

“Shadow Dragon!” Ben’s voice was heard from a distance, which cause those taking Shadow Dragon to stop & for the guy to turn & have his eyes set forth on the weakened, but struggling Equestrian.

“We shall meet again, Benjamin Maregillian. As of this day forth…” Shadow Dragon spoke these words with a serious tone of his voice to glare at Ben. “You & I are now enemies…” He issued this with the coldest of intention that the next time they meet, it will not be as friends, but as enemies.

Soon Dragoking continues to move while taking Shadow Dragon into a Corridor of Darkness by having him ride on his back & then Twilight Moon also goes along too. Tech was looking back & forth in what happened there before he snap in seeing what any genius should do.

“WAIT FOR MEEEE!” Tech screamed out in in not wanting to be left behind to face against this major army of heroes.

And soon the corridor of darkness vanished afterwards at this time with all the Dark Mystics & their evil allies gone. Ben slowly drops to his knees & held himself up with his front hooves while he drop his weapons that vanished afterwards. That there was the closest moment he’s ever survive against something Kishin brought out, but the worse thing of all...was letting Shadow Dragon escape along with his lies & deceitful act to fool him & everyone.

“I am sorry for whatever acts have befallen, Ben.” Tao spoke to approach Ben to gently pat his shoulder.

“I’m sorry that the shield you guys gave to protect us is gone.” Ben spoke off to apologize in seeing they lost the Mystic Shield now.

“We’re just glade we made it in time when we felt the Mystic Shield no longer sent out any mystic energy. Worse, that Kishin Akuma would show up.” Dragon Kick spoke off to say in knowing the problem that happened & seeing a new problem arose here.

“Ah big deal, he’s just one more Dark Mystic to deal with.” Jade rolled her eyes in not being so scared of Kishin Akuma.

“Jade, you must be careful. Kishin Akuma is a very frightening Dark Mystic. He’s as terrifying & malicious as Dark Curse is evil.” Mighty Heart spoke to explain to the young Mystic child that Kishin Akuma is a very dangerous foe, one to watch out for in the future.

“We were lucky that we reach Zebura to send a signal to call in some allies while we request the Mystics.” Celestia spoke off in feeling glad that they were able to get help when they did.

“For now, let us treat everyone, the battle is at least over & we can hopefully move on with our lives.” Luna spoke off to say in hoping that things can be a bit peaceful now.

“I’m afraid knowing my brother & the Three Lords.” Azure Phoenix slowly spoke in sounding grimly serious over the issue of what’s happen here. “The battle…is never over.” He looked over the horizon in feeling that what’s happened here is only just getting started.

Everything begins to fade out while everyone that fought against the Dark Mystic army raid to get into Ponyville to recover. Some of the reinforcement heroes decided to stick around for a bit until it was okay to return to their own homes when everyone was all better. One things certain, things are truly about to go downhill from here.

---------------

Within Tartarus, the evil Overlord King sat upon his thrown with a look that was…focus. After learning of what his enemies have done that may have actually gotten his attention even more, annoyed the War-God. The Mystics try to keep him from enjoying himself & other evil forces from preparing their attack. Well, that is where everything changes. For now the act of Shadow Dragon as his alias name as Chase has finally accomplished his task of finding the Mystic Shield & putting an end to its protection over Equestria. The open window of opportunity has arisen.

“At long last, what those foolish Mystics tried to do has slipped through their grasp.” Grimmore spoke to himself in making this issue on witnessing from a fiery portal window…of the act that has happened. “They mostly done this to keep me from touching Equestria, yet it only shows how much they truly understand how much they fear me, so instead....it is more a display that they have a right to fear me." Grimmore claimed forth the reason his foes wanted to protect Equestria, the foolish Mystic Ponies did this cause they respect & fear his powers that they try something of this approach. “Time for a change within the winds! Ji-Ga-No!" He spoke in feeling the game is afoot now, and summons his mighty Metallic Dragon into the throne room

"Here, my lord!" Ji-Ga-No responds to bow before his tyrant of a ruler.

"The Mystic Shield that has strengthen Tao's protection spell & what else those Mystics had done is finally down.” Grimmore spoke in getting to the point of something he saw happen when Chase had achieve his undercover mission objective.

“That is excellent news, my liege.” The Metallic Chinese Dragon nods to look up in hearing the news before speaking. "It would seem that to have many lives to protect all across Equestria, they never believed that one unseen enemy could befriend them to crush their hopes & dreams.” He spoke in seeing that the shield that protected all of Equestria from Grimmore & the Superior’s forces is taken care of, the time to retaliate seems to be in order.

"Hmmm....Then, it would seem that now the die has cast where their planning is coming apart now.” Grimmore waved off his hand in now seeing that Chase’s display in causing mischief has paid off. “From evil's hand by Dark Mystics work, so....I'll just begin...Setting up my own countermeasures." He spoke devilishly to hold up a magic sphere of contain dark magic that was sparkling so violently, it's like its alive & very dangerous.

"My Lord, do you mean that you...?" Ji-Ga-No asked off in believing his master is going to do something about this; could it be what Grimmore said he do from before.

“The Mystics believe that one spell can keep me & the other powerful forces of evil out, then I'll return the favor." Grimmore spoke in holding the darken orb that reflected his image before showing Equestria that were...vacant without the precious Mystic Shield protecting all around it. "By acquiring areas to be ruled under evil & that all those that carry the weight, magic, & been blessed as Mystic Ponies will be shun from the lands. And their magic, even the strongest of casters & warriors, will not penetrate & all attempts will be backfired." He spoke this out as a plan that, if the Mystics were trying to keep him out of areas filled with innocent civilians, then a counterweight is needed in those without much life to protect. So even if the Mystic Ponies do try to keep areas with ponies around safe, all of the other areas will be expose for the picking & not even shields or barriers will last much when this spell in unleashed. "And to just add insult to injury, I'll make it so that any attempts by the Mystics to come within the barrier fields will spread all out in affecting all, by ten THOUSAND times the pain!" He evilly exclaimed with a dark smile, that if the Mystics even step forth in areas that have no largest sum amount of pony lives to protect, as a village, town or city, then outside borders of any civilization is strip of their contacts...until he says so.

"Hah-hah-hah, what a marvelously evil idea! Turning something the Mystics tried to keep you out into something that they themselves cannot get to. And with that blasted Mystic Shield gone, all of Equestria may as well be vulnerable to attack." Ji-Ga-No laughed off evilly in finding amusement, now the Mystic Ponies will have problems, they can protect those filled with ponies, but everything else; is keep sakes. And without their Mystic Shield, Equestria is once again expose for conquerors to step forth. "But what about those that are not Mystics?" The evil metallic Dragon question, would the spell his lord will perform keep ordinary ponies out too?

"That's just it, others that are not Mystic Ponies are free to cross in & out." Grimmore wave out his arm freely in stating, those that are not the legendary Mystic Ponies are free to enter the areas where his magic will keep out any that bear Mystic in their genetic code. "And since I've taken measurements that not even Susano, Azure Phoenix, or any other powerful Mystic can get in by any kinds of planning, their only chance...lies in the hope of the other ponies." He smiled again that if the Mystic Ponies wanna enter the areas if evil is afoot, they must call in special ponies that are strong, but are not Mystic beings, in short...mortal creatures.

"How very sneaky, that means that if the ponies cross outside their border of where the Mystics could cast a simple protection spell to only stall the inevitable, they'll be easy prey." Ji-Ga-No smirked in finding this to be a treat, those that can leave their safe homes to enter dangerous areas will be left to defend themselves.

"Exactly." Grimmore nods in saying that is the plan alright, without the powerful Mystic Shield up & his own plot to make sure the Mystics attempts are limited to which they can’t interfere & there's more. "And I think it's time to finish & wrap up my little 'first wave' project I've been working on." The Dark Elf responded in having the moment to begin wrapping up things on his side.

"Do you mean....?" Ji-Ga-No also gasp in thinking, was this going to be...'it' of what his lord was doing this whole time.

"Yes...." The Dark Elf nods while holding a single Copy Crystal, feeling it's power grown & be nourished to such an extent, especially after his time from meeting with the Devourer. "I've managed to perfect a new line of powerful creatures to become my Elite Warriors, like Metal Jell." He recall how he created the first of his Elite Warrior, & now he's finally reaching the conclusion of his first wave of truly powerful elites. "And to seal the deal, to which even those foolish Mystics can't interfere....the countermeasure we discuss will activate when the new objects I make are active & spread around the entire region to keep them out. They'll be called....Territory Gem-Seeds.” He spoke in having a plan to spread his influence all around, the areas that will be under territory of those he unleashes, that even if the Mystic Ponies approaches will be utterly useless to proceed any further, no might or magic will work, not even the most powerful of Mystic Artifacts.

"So at last, you're finally moving up." Ji-Ga-No made a sinister smirk in seeing they got a move to use at last.

"Yes, but to make sure no more surprises will stop us..." Grimmore spoke in believing, it's time he became more serious to make sure, no Mystic Ponies will interfere once his 'new' warriors come forth & plant the seeds to make their territory.

Suddenly, a map of Equestria showed up with all its valley borders of Ponyville, Canterlot, & places that are in the wild. Those that have some white glow over the area are those that are filled with pony citizens living in the area. And soon the number of Copy Crystals surrounded the magical map's borders, by thousands, no ten thousand, one hundred, a million, a billion, too many to count!

"Make no mistake, if they think they are safe in thinking of protecting the areas of where the ponies live, then let them try...." Grimmore spoke in feeling very cocky in seeing that if the Mystic Ponies wanna protect innocent pony life, then he'll not get to them at this time, instead... "But everything else….& soon…All of Equestria….” He makes an evil smirk across his face in preparing something else under his sleeve.

Then at the moment, the Copy Gems spin around all over the wild life areas while turning red, something was about to happen.

"IS KEEP SAKES!" Grimmore roared out from holding his right hand out to unleash red pulse wave to the gems, the reacted to this to merge in the magical map areas, and....

"THRUOSSSSUUVVHMMM....." Soon from Tartarus, a powerful red wave that was so thin & invisible was spreading across from Tartarus to its outside borders & spreading further. "RAARRRUUUAARRROOORRRRRUGHHHH!" An eerie monstrous roar sound came from the invisible magic within the area, as it was covering everything in Equestria really fast. And while the towns, cities & villages with ponies living around may not have the powerful & best defense Mystic Shield up anymore, the spell unleashed instead was covering the skies & making areas glimmer red before vanishing. This act was Grimmore finally taking into account of the Mystics act to become....very serious now.

--------------------

Meanwhile, Tao, his family were in their own area within Ponyville, discussing things with Susano & Azure Phoenix. They were discussing how to fix the loss of the Mystic Shield & are left vulnerable now without a way to keep powerful villains out when...

"POOOOWWFRRRUVHMMMM..../Arrrrughhhhh!" Suddenly, what spread over Ponyville like an invisible force went over the part of Equestria the Mystics were in, but the eerie monstrous roar seem to cause...other effects from within the building.

"AAAIIIYAAAAAAHHHHHHH!" Tao yelled out to hold his head to kneel down on the ground, like a splitting headache struck him.

"AAAAAHHHH....." The other Mystic Ponies were holding their heads & their bodies in feeling something, something that felt like it was hurting them!

Soon the passing of what went by had ended, & then the Mystics got up, a bit dizzy, but feeling like what they experienced was only a short moment of pain.

"Wooh! What in Equestria was that?" Jade asked off in feeling like something knock the wind seriously out of them.

"An immensely powerful spell was just cast. Ugh....& from the after effects seems to have affected us." Tao spoke with much worry as if his face was going pale, a very strong, very powerful, & very effective spell, has been cast that may put them in harm’s way.

"But none of the civilian ponies have noticed or felt it! Why?" Dragon Kick spoke in looking out the window, every pony is going by like nothing of great danger was even present & they missed it.

"That is cause what was cast was something too powerful to have not been felt if those without special heighten sensory skills cannot detect." Susano spoke in feeling, they felt the spell cause while its presence was strongly hidden from average ponies, maybe even the Royal Sisters, the Mystics sense & felt it to be more alert. "This is a spell cast only by the highest power of any living creature, a creature that rivals the power of both a god & a Demon." He spoke with a very serious voice in what this could only mean.

"Grimmore! So he's made a bigger response than we thought!" Azure Phoenix rub his chin in seeing the Dark Elf has done something, after their Mystic Shield was taken down, the OverLord King of Tartarus was bound to retaliate sooner or later during the mis-confusion.

"But I thought he couldn't attack while the Mystic Shield was believed to still be up?" Dragon Kick question this case which instead, made Tao whack his forehead. "Ow!" He yelped from again, being scolded by his uncle.

"Pay ATTENTIOOOOON!" Tao scolded while yelling this out to the stallion for missing out of what's happening. "Grimmore has unleashed a spell combined from over so many Copy Gems of the Triforce essence itself has only been made to perform something to which it can't be seen or heard!" That was the explanation, the power of this spell was done so no pony would notice, not unless their senses are extremely high & well trained.

"But how come we did?" Jade asked off puzzled, they felt this spell, but how was the act not seen so clearly for the other ponies.

Suddenly, Jeff the Gentle magically teleported into the room....but he looked like he was almost seriously wounded. Like he just came back from a fight, & just came out of it still alive & hanging on by a thread.

"Everypony, we got trouble!" Jeff spoke from trying to approach, but trip to have Mighty Heart hold his balance. "I was leaving Blueblood & exit outside of Canterlot's border to suddenly feel....a surging repelling force. Ugh & it really pack a punch that I had to teleport here instead." He was feeling very soar, so much that Mighty had to bring him over to a couch.

"Oh my!" Mighty Heart spoke with worry, everyone else was worried, & some had to perform a little healing spell...but that was only slowly aiding the poor fella.

"That must be it, Grimmore has performed something which we did." Azure Phoenix spoke with a serious face in realizing what this all equals to. "He's setup a barrier that will repel & hurt us." He stated out in realizing, their dangerous foe of all times, has pulled one over them, & they fell for it.

"But, why didn't it harm us here & why it affected Jeff when he left outside Canterlot borders?” Dragon Kick asked off in seeing that the spell that was cast, didn't do any harm to other ponies around & why some of them are fine while others seem like they had better days.

"Because the spell cast is accounting of the large number of ponies in the area.” Tao spoke in explaining with a serious face that that they are okay but when Jeff was far away from ponies in the area; well they saw what happened. "He cast a stronger spell to keep us out of everything else that's miles away from where many lives are in need of protection." Tao notify that their enemy has made sure that which they want to protect all innocent creatures will not work anywhere except in civilization spots. So if it’s not of a larger amount of mortal ponies, they’ll get a terrible shock; Grimmore has given them both something to protect, but kept them prisoners from venturing to any parts of Equestria that has the smallest of pony lifeforms: he’s out played them big time now.

"Woah, that means that the places like here, Cloudsdale, Canterlot, & where other ponies live are..." Jade yelped for big time, that means the spots where they wanted to protect ponies are the only places they may enter freely & their own world in the Mystic Realm.

"Grimmore has learned enough that we will keep him & others out of such places, but those where there is nothing by wild nature of our planet is fully exploited for his moment to move." Tao nods with a cautious & concerning face, knowing their enemy has at last done something, to turn the tide against them. "And worst of all, is that we can do nothing to stop the evil forces unless they come to populated areas to which we can fight against. We instead must put our trust...in the heroes that are not Mystic Ponies & fight against the slow rising of....'new' evil!" Tao stated out that if evil enters the parts of Equestria where a large sum of ponies are vulnerable, they can fight, but outside the fewest that doesn’t equal like a colony is left to ponies that are not Mystics & must journey to fight against great evil.

That made everypony in the room suddenly go silent & knew they have to alert their other Mystic Pony comrades to announce this unexpected display before it hurts those without them knowing it, as the scene grew dark. Looks like the coming of evil is slowly growing & reaching it's hand out to them.

-----------------------

Meanwhile, where Dark Curse & his Dark Mystics were at, they too also witness the powerful spell that was casted from the land, sea & air while everything seem to have gone back to normal.

"Woah, some show here!" Clumsy Rat spoke off in being amazed in what they saw.

"It looks like it's over." Shades stated in seeing the show was over now.

"Bros., I don't know about you, but that spell felt almost....weird." DJ Red spoke off weird in what they witness was feeling like weird vibes.

"Master, what could this event mean?" Black Tiger turn to Dark Curse, thinking he knows this.

"Yes, what could this sign tell us?" Demon Assassin nods in agreement, what has befallen Equestria now.

"I know what it stands for." Dark Curse smiles evilly in noticing & feeling this spell & it was perfect to let loose a chuckle. "Hmph-hmph-hmph, Grimmore has done us a solid!" He spoke from giggling under his breath in seeing, the Dark Elf War-God was behind this. "He's cast a spell where our enemies, the Mystic Ponies, cannot venture outside without leaving populated areas where they want to protect ponies." He issue in sensing the power, it's so strong that it will repel even their mortal foes.

“You mean he’s made it so they are only allowed entry into populated pony filled areas?” Devil Destroyer responded with an evil grin, this means that their mutual enemies are helpless to be cornered in a trap they can’t get out of.

“Wow, guess that’s why the Dark Elf is so powerful, I almost be impressed.” Tech responded in almost being completely astounded by this sudden news Grimmore has performed. “He’s managed to act just as Shadow Dragon took care of the Mystic Shield. Looks like we’re one step closer to WORLD DOMINATION!” Tech responded off to holler this message like an announcer, ready to take on the world…with evil.

"Wait, seriously?" Shades asked off in almost finding this stuff hard to believe.

"So we could just walz into the plain-fields or the Everfree Forest & they won't pop up?" DJ Red asked off in thinking they can enter a place, & no Mystics could stop them.

"Yes. We can use this to our greatest advantage." Dark Curse spoke out in feeling very intrigue, they can exploit this spell to their advantage. “Tech, has the spell done anything to our own barrier?”

“Ah, nothing unusual on my watch. I think we’re good, I’m 75 percent sure.” Tech responded to pull up a mechanical watch to press it to check the readouts, to which when the others heard the last part, gave him frowny expressions in believing…25 percent could be devastating odds against them if he’s wrong. “Course the 25 percent might be a different story. But I’m positive the readouts show it’ll be most effective against Mystics of the Light & not us Dark Mystics of Evil. BONUS Evil!” Tech responded with a positive evil upbeat in feeling they have no worries, even if their enemies the Mystic Ponies try to withstand what Grimmore pulled out, the side of evil will still have the bigger advantage.

"Then that means…we can work more in planning our conquest to rule!" Black Tiger grip his hooves in believing they have a shot now.

"Or perhaps, you can use this to finally reach your 'true' objective." Demon Assassin stated another objective their master and leader has plans for.

"Yes, with the Mystic Ponies out of the way…for now, we can venture forth when the time is right." Dark Curse responded that they can use this chance to acquire their biggest objective when the hour is near. "And gain Ben Mare to join us!" He smiled evilly, soon, Ben's Triforce Element will be theirs to command & use however they see fit.

Dark Curse soon chuckles evilly, this event may yet prove to be the most effective way to aid him & his Dark Mystics to gain their objective. Best of all, since they are not Mystic Ponies but Dark Mystic Ponies, the spell that keeps out the good won't affect them. They can take advantage of this. The scene grows dark here as now another evil can ride up during the time the Mystic Ponies can't interfere while watching & protecting the home areas of innocent civilians; perfect for evil's move.

------------------------

We find Ben within Rainbow Castle within his own bed chamber at this time. He was all healed up & looking better after the battle to protect Ponyville from invading Dark Mystics from the loss of the Mystic Shield. But also in learning Chase was actually an undercover spy; Shadow Dragon. Ben was able to stop Shadow Dragon this time, but the guy was cut to half his strength & was wounded. But the real dilemma was remembering the encounter against Kishin Akuma, seeing the thing that once scared Ben as a colt who’s real & even as a grown stallion with a powerful element; he was like a deer to bright lights. He couldn’t stop thinking about that Demon General; that Demon, his words that echo about Friendship isn’t magic & it’s only a delusion to those who hold onto it.

“Ben…are you alright?” Twilight suddenly cuts in to snap Ben back into reality while seeing a worried Twilight by his side.

“Oh…I’m okay. How bout you?” Ben yelped a bit while recovering himself to then respond with a different question.

“I’m good. The others that helped us are making slow recoveries.” Twilight nods off to say this while stating the situation.

“And…what about Azure…he took a nasty hit from….well…” Ben was about to ask about another subject, but then that brought up Kishin Akuma which made the guy freeze up slightly before shaking himself.

“From Kishin Akuma?” Twilight finished Ben’s sentence in knowing what he was gonna say.

Hearing the name made Ben feel like a heel, he couldn’t even say the name without tensing up in fear, what was wrong with him. He’s a grown stallion, he shouldn’t be scared of some Boogieman, but….that Boogieman is very real & very dangerous.

“Pinkamena’s helping him get better, even Mangani is healing the Kirin, so it’s not in any danger of dying.” Twilight soon was speaking off in mentioning how Azure is doing with those treating the poor Kirin.

“I imagine how enrage Pinkamena would feel if that happened.” Ben stated off in feeling that if Azure died in that battle, Pinkamena would go into a feral fury to hunt down to get back at Kishin. “Still…Kishin Akuma…I’m feeling…like a fool! I froze before him!” Ben silently spoke off in feeling gloomy about what happened to him when they saw such an opponent, he choke.

“Ben…it’s okay. We all were afraid, he did almost kill us, but he didn’t. Do you know why?” Twilight hugs her love to calm Ben down in trying to ease her love’s suffering in feeling scared, but there was something to cheer him up, which earn Ben’s curiosity. “It’s because he thinks Friendship isn’t Magic, at times, I felt I couldn’t get others to believe me, but you & our friends…help me through. And that saved us.” Twilight explained how that it’s from everyone that has believed in her and the magic of friendship that they came this far & that’s what saved them when their allies gathered to drive away such a dangerous foe.

“I… guess so.” Ben slowly felt a little more better; Twilight was right, there was strength in the friends they have to help another out.

“Good, now come on, help me get Nyx, Spike & Phobos to bed. Starlight Glimmer is just reading them a story now.” Twilight smiled off in seeing she help cheer up her love to not be so scared no more.

Ben soon got up to join Twilight to help get everyone ready for bed. Ben may still harbor somethings that scare him, those like Kishin Akuma, but…maybe…as long as he has his friends & family, it’ll keep him strong to not be so scared; he can only hope there won’t be any coming days of facing that Demon again. But as the scene goes dark, we know for sure…that such wishy-washy thinking will not happen and a day may come where Ben will have to face…Kishin Akuma again.

---------------

The scene opens around where Lelouch was kneeling before a magic portal mirror, but who he was speaking to was blurred out to make it hard to see who it was.

“I’ve return.” Lelouch exclaimed to say.

“You've disobeyed me…” The mysterious voice of someone spoke in sounding disappointed.

“I just wanted to see if he's really the one. And looks like everything went well. Sorry for my disobedient, Great One.” Lelouch exclaimed off to say this in knowing what he did was against what this guy wanted.

“Matters not. Because of you, Equestria is feeding us more of negative energy & feelings. And each time they met their greatest defeat, our power grows & restore slowly.” The mysterious being stated off to mention this as some kind of fact.

“But the rest aren't here.” Lelouch stated of them missing others.

“Do not worry. When the pure of Light & Dark between Good & Evil clashed again, it will slowly reawakened your brothers & sisters. Soon, our revenge will come. And accursed Mystic Creatures & all others will pay for the treachery we endured.” The mysterious force stated in what will come soon…

“What is thy bidding, my master?” Lelouch bows down again to request what he’s to do next.

“Awaited for the time to come. For now, we let Grimmore to play his own game. And this time, no more interferences, Melancholy. We only have limited Heralds now: Pride, Manipulation, Sloth, Envy and you. We must wait for others to come for us.” The mysterious being stated to let things play out as they are still shorthanded.

“Yes, my lord.” Lelouch nods in obeying that claim.

“And keep your slave in leash from getting 'pizza’.” Then what the mysterious being said sounded somewhat out of character.

“She's not my slave. She's my wife, my witch and my lust of the opposite male species.” Lelouch remarked off in stating this claim.

“Even though she's the daughter of Mystic Councilpony of Wisdom, you treated her as your equal.” The mysterious voice remotely lectured Lelouch about the matter at hand.

“Yes….” Lelouch looked down in hating to agree on such terms.

“Very well. It is your decision. Just make sure she won't betray us again.” The mysterious being stated this off before the portal vanished from sight.

“She won't. She's no longer a Mystic Pony, she's my Mystic Demon Wife & Witch…” Lelouch responded off to say this while etchings go dark in how he speaks about Celtic…of who she is & forever will be.

--------------

Within the Mystic Realm, a secret gathering was happening with only a few select rob members seen & only few among them that were speaking.

“It looks like Grimmore made his move. But that doesn't stop me from getting my target.” The one called Black Alpha spoke off in making this claim about what he’ll try to do, even with the spell Grimmore has made that limits much Mystic beings from being active in Equestria.

“Don't try, old friend. This is exactly what Grimmore was planning. He wants to expose the Mystic Guardians out. And no one knows it but us alone.” The one nearby called Yuko exclaimed to state this matter of what the War-God was planning.

“That means nothing to me.” Black Alpha lightly brushed off the matter.

“Maybe. But Grimmore may desire your power because you're the strongest as I am among the Mystic Council. If we expose too much of who we really are, he will find & hunt us down.” Susano exclaimed off to state with concerns of what such an enemy will do.

“I agreed. Grimmore may not be powerful as we are after the Time Lapse deprave him of much his strength, but his treachery & cunning knows no bounds since he was trained by Herald of Manipulation. Grimmore plans to ascend to the power of Demon God by taking both Mystic Guardians & Heralds of Darkness’ powers to overthrow his previous one. The worse yet, he may actually succeed.” Yuk explained the dire case of where even if Grimmore is not currently at his strongest, he makes up for it with treachery, cunning, & other means of where if they are not careful, he will become so powerful that hope will be lost to everything.

“The last thing we want is to have him to bring ruins to the balance.” Susan shook his head off in hating to bear witness such an event.

“Hugh…Very well. We shall stay low. He has yet sense our presence. So, he still doesn't know Mystic Guardians among the living…” Black Alpha sighs to say this in hoping that their presence, will continue to be not detected by any evil means…

“Not yet…but if his powers grow stronger than anticipated, then it will mean the end.” Yuko shook the head in being concern about future events.

With that, the scene goes dark as much shrouded mysterious are still clouded of what threats still lie in wait.

Soon the entire scene here goes completely dark around now, as whatever events are happening; it’s becoming more & more complex than one can keep track of.

-------------------

Meanwhile, the next day in Rainbow Castle, Twilight was having a gather meeting with her friends Applejack, Rainbow, Spike & Nyx. But there was someone not here, it was Ben…he seem to be missing out on today’s event.

“Ben still not here?” Rainbow Dash asked off in seeing Ben has arrived to join them.

“No, daddy’s in his private room.” Nyx shook her head in stating this.

“Hugh…I hope Ben's alright. Maybe I should tell him the truth about Shadow Dragon & his heritage.” Twilight sihns in feeling concern about Ben.

“Twilight, don't! Ye know it's not de right time.” Applejack patted her pal’s back in knowing that won’t help no one.

“But still…” Twilight was still feeling uncertain.

“I know, Twilight. Believe me, I don't like too. But it's Princess Celestia's choice. We just have ta wait.” Applejack insisted about this matter of what they were told.

“I just don't like it. He's Princess Celestia's Son…& yet....” Twilight spoke off puzzled in why Celestia, Ben’s own mother, would want something kept out of Ben’s knowledge about Shadow Dragon’s past.

“Cheer up Twilight, I’m sure we can help.” Spike smiled off to speak some supportive words.

“She’s right, despite what happened, we’re all here to support another.” Rainbow issued off to say this in what they firmly believe.

“Yep! After all, after a little time to cool off, I’m sure daddy will be bouncing back in no time!” Nyx nods off to happily state this in being extra positive over the thought of Ben bouncing back, not staying down for long.

“If anyone can help Applejack, it’s you Twilight.” Applejack exclaimed to say this in speaking with an honest thought.

Twilight smiled in looking at her friends, they were being supportive to which the Princess of Friendship sighs to smile in nodding for agreement. Looks like maybe she shouldn’t worry so much, if the problem rear’s itself again, she just has to handle it; hopefully, it’s nothing too serious; right?

---------------

Meanwhile, in Ben Mare's private chamber...he was seen looking at an old photo of him & Chase; AKA Shadow Dragon's disguise form. He remembers the times they had, good & bad, but still...none of that matters it seems.

"The battle is over....we stop you from harming us...yet still, I still feel something lost." Ben stated in feeling his chest, his heart seem to feel like...it aches.

Ben was still not over what Shadow Dragon did, what he performed, everything...

"You took our friendship for granted, you abused it & toyed with me." Ben remotely stated this off in having to glare at the photo to shake it, as if losing control of himself.

Then at that moment, Ben dropped the photo before stomping on it with his one hoof. Then his eyes showed some hidden & furious anger & rage that seem to be a beast lying dormant inside him.

"The next time we meet Shadow Dragon, you will pay for what you did...you crossed the final line!" Ben Mare issued off to say this as he picks up the photo while looking super upset.

Then in an instant, Ben toss the photo up, summoned the Master Sword to slice it in two in separating; a picture of him & Chase together. The scene darkens in showing some hidden blur of red that vanished deep within Ben's now return normal eyes. Apparently what Shadow Dragon managed to achieve did succeed as the scar marks not left on body, but on soul...now remain.

-----------------

Meanwhile, somewhere in a location where only Shadow Dragon, Twilight Moon & Dragoking are located; the mare was treating the warrior’s wounds. The guy was gonna let himself recover the natural way rather than quickly healing by magic, especially since one; Rufus Lore's new spell: 'Element LightBurst Alchemy' stun like the dickens & that will take a long while to heal over. Second reason, Shadow Dragon wanted to feel the pain, to memorize it as the beating he was dealt upon by his rival in their future battles; Ben Mare. For once he recovers, he’ll wonder if he’ll feel this again if Ben can get stronger or not, remains to be seen.

“Ouch! Careful there!” Shadow Dragon cringed from feeling Twilight Moon put a patch on his backside that kinda stun him without warning.

“Oh would you hold still, you brought this on yourself!” Twilight Moon scolds the guy to let her do her part to help treat the guy.

“Agreed. You shouldn’t have been so easy on Ben Mare while provoking him with meaningless trifles to get him riled up, now…he’ll become a problem.” Tso Lan appeared by his spirit head in lecturing Shadow Dragon of his lack of decision making.

“Maybe so…however…it fits fine with our plan.” Shadow Dragon showed a smile in stating this matter.

“Plan?” Tso Lan raised an eyebrow in having heard this out of nowhere.

“Ben has now become Super Strong now after his bloodline awakened, I recall very few warriors have that when a great warrior long ago passes on, their bloodline on their descendants still harbors to wait for someone to awaken it.” Shadow Dragon explained in having seen a side of Ben that has now awaken more of his next inner strength than he could hope for. “It may have occurred when he went to retrieve his two missing elements, but make no mistake. He’s now reaching a point to be far stronger than an average Earth Station even without his element. And when in use with the Triforce, it’ll make him even stronger.” He stated that with Ben’s inherited strength from his ancestor, Epona, with the combine force of the Triforce, it’ll make Ben much stronger than he was when he first met the guy.

“And this is good, how?” Tso Lan raised an eyebrow in still pondering where this was going.

“You shall see, for the more Ben’s power grows, then he’ll become prey to which he shall become….one of us. And by toying with his heart of the friendship we had, it will help in our quest to making him join the forces of darkness.” Shadow Dragon smiled with a wicked expression that in the eventual future to come, the more powerful Ben becomes, then once that great warrior falls from the light…he shall become a warrior of the dark; it was made to be perfect. “Guuaagh!” But then Shadow Dragon yelped out a cry when he felt an even bigger patch of medicine be applied to his aching body.

“I told you to hold still!” Twilight Moon scolds Shadow Dragon to be still while she’s treating him.

Tso Lan & Dragoking snickered in watching this event, but one look from Shadow Dragon shut the two up. But there was still snickering & he turn to the corner to spot Tech was there in having watch the scene. While annoyed, Shadow Dragon made a sly smile before looking up towards Dragoking, gave an eye signal for him to go…’play’ with Tech, which the Hydragoon nodded. And soon Dragoking approached Tech which its shadow overlap Tech’s before looking up.

“Um, nice boy!” Tech chuckled nervously while a snarling beast was gazing down at him. “Eheh…I just remembered…I gotta go get a…THING check out. BYE!” Tech pretended to be surprised in looking at the time & made an excuse that he’s gotta be somewhere else now.

Then Tech dash off like a cloud image of him before Dragoking started stomping on after the guy. Soon some crashes & mama colt cries are heard along with the roaring of the Hydragoon beast. Shadow Dragon made a sly & amuse smile in feeling something amusing was going on that made him feel more at ease even with Twilight Moon treating his pain. And also, when the two look to another & snuck in a little...kiss, much to Tso Lan’s disgust. And with that, everything goes dark at this time to end things here…

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At this very moment, the scene begins to shift from the Rainbow Kingdom towards the Everfree Forest. The forest seem peaceful during the time, nothing but crickets are heard while some night animals were seen doing their night activities while other creatures slept. However, there was something that was going on around a certain location by a familiar cave in which within it lead to…the Tree Of Harmony. It was glowing in a strange reaction, ever since the destruction of the Mystic Shield, but around it were different magic aura flows of what were perhaps….many different elements from many users. The tree sense them & focus around the six jewels of Honesty, Laughter, Generosity, Kindness, Loyalty & Magic as their magic trail went into the center point of the Tree of Harmony. It flash for what was but a single moment before….it sank deeper into its body & vanish beneath the ground.

But at the sudden moment around the side of the tree, a strange crystal flower pod pops out of the ground & begins to unfold its leaves to reveal something…inside. Emerging from it was not an object, but rather….it was a unicorn body of a mare that slept with a mark on her flank that shows six gems that when together, are harmony.

“Hmmmm. This place….” The mare slowly was lifting her eyes to look around her surroundings. “I was…over there.” She questioned from spotting the tree before her. “I was….the Tree…of Harmony?” She asked off in feeling curious about what it, or rather…she was.

Taking into the moment of studying herself, of what she…was, or rather, was supposed to be than what she is now. It was very strange, it was unusual; it made little sense to her.

“Harmony….that is me. That is…my name. Oh…” The new mare was gathering to know something while knowing what her name is, but yelps from the sudden movement of her legs that she fell on her soft pod bed. “I am….alive? And with a body and mind….it is…a new feeling.” She stated in realizing what she is now & that she was more than being just a tree…she is flesh and blood now.

She approached the tree of where the elements still hung to, & from touching it, she could sense everything that goes on within the Everfree Forest. Slowly learning to make sense of her body & consciousness, to help her understand while she felt a need to help maintain all that grows in the forest.

“It feels I must stay & watch over this place, this forest to insure its protection.” Harmony spoke in sensing what she must do as her role to aid here & now. “As the tree, I have the elements…& yet, I can sense other elements afar & when in use…including….one I have. Balance…is that, what I am…a living element.” She ponders to say in being curious about if she somehow has become a balancer from the six elements off the tree. “Yes, perhaps it is so…I am…the Embodiment of Balance…one with the Element of Balance, to balance things out as they stand.” Harmony smiled to nod her face, in feeling like she understands herself a little bit. “Yaaaaawn….I feel sleepy, maybe I’ll see what is happening….& rest a little….rest. What a new feeling that sounds.” Harmony responded after a yawn, feeling mostly tired, but will do some rest in a bit.

Then in a surprising moment, Harmony soon phases into the Tree of Harmony & vanishes. The tree glows while the mare inside senses all things within the forest, all helping to keep things in balance. The scene begins to zoom away as many new mysteries are starting to grow outside of anyone’s notice…


The End