> Diamond In The Rough > by Deltorix > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Chapter 1 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- I smile as I get dressed in my blue shirt with a big yellow star on the front. Then some basic blue jeans, a pink jacket, and some flip-flops. 'Ok my costume is good and it's not like I have to show off my belly button, so I don't need a fake gem for it.'  I leave my room and look at my moms and sister as they are eating breakfast. "Morning moms, Lisa, how are you three?" I ask, then I get a plate of food and sit down to start eating. “Morning son, and we are doing good. What about you?” My mom asked. “Sup dude.” My sister said, “I'm excited for today. My very first Comic-Con and I get to dress as my favorite character.” I told her with a big grin.  “Honestly I don't know why you like that show there's not enough violence in it. I mean you're a 16-year-old boy. You should be liking transformers, explosions, and girls with giant tits. Not people talking about their feelings.” My sister teased me, making me groan.  “Now now, so what if that show is about feelings, I think it is quite beautiful.” Rosie, my mom, said calmly, “And the story itself was full of twists and turns and many surprises. Though if I were to admit, I think Garnet was awesome.”  I laugh and smirk as I start eating. “You're just saying that because you're dressing up as her.”  Lisa rolls her eyes. “Ugh, why do I have to go along with this? I don't want to dress up like a loser.”  I roll my eyes and point at her with my fork. “We agreed I would do your chores and you would dress as Amethyst for the con.”  “Right, I’m starting to have second thoughts.” Lisa said. I shake my head and grumble. ’She is always like this. Making deals then changing her mind.’ I think to myself as I continue to eat. “Now now Lisa, we mustn’t be so negative.” Luna said, “After all, we must be respectful of Jake's likes and dislikes.” I smile a bit as I know my mother Luna always picks my side of things. “That was delicious mom, how soon can we go?”  “As soon as you clean your dishes, then we can.” she said, picking up her plate before walking to the sink. I grin and quickly finish eating and take my plate to the sink and help wash the dishes.  “My, someone is excited. Now, go get your stuff on, I’ll get these two ready as well.”  I nod quickly and run to my room and grab my cheeseburger backpack and put it on. Then I grab my wallet with thousands of dollars in it that I worked my ass off for.  “This is gonna be amazing!” I then run to the door and see my family come out of their rooms dressed as Amethyst, Pearl, and Garnet.  “Don’t we all look lovely.” my mom Rosie said, dressed as Garnet.  “Speak for yourself. I look like a wimp.” Lisa said, dressed as Amethyst. I smile and hold onto my backpack straps. “You look cool to me. Let's go!” I start walking out the door. Lisa runs past me and shouts, “Shotgun!!” My eyes widen and I rush to the car yelling. “Nooooooo!”  I managed to beat her and climb in the front seat, “Hey! No fair!” she said angrily. “Sorry Jake, but I have to get shotgun this time.” Rosie said,  I sigh and climb out of the seat and get in the back and Lisa punches my arm. “Ow! What was that for!?” I glared lightly at her.  “Getting to the front seat before me, and because you’re my bro.” she said, I stick my tongue out at her and cross my arms after I buckle my seatbelt. “Hey, enough fighting you two we are going to have family fun.” Luna tells us as she gets in the driver's seat and starts the car. “Alright, who’s ready for Comic-Con?” Rosie asks us.  I cheer and grin as I pull out my phone and tell my friends I'll be busy for the weekend. Then I pull out my tablet and start watching the Steven Universe movie while I wait to get to the con.  “Really? You're gonna watch that show again? If I hear ‘other friends’ one more time I'm gonna hurl.” Lisa says but I tune her out.  After a couple of hours, Luna stopped the car in front of a large building. “Alright kids, we’re here~,” she said in a singsong voice while turning off the car. I look up from my tablet and cheer. “Yes! Time to get some cool stuff!” I get out of the car and start heading off but am stopped when Rosie grabs my backpack.  “Hold on kiddo, wait for us, k?” she said, I sigh a bit but nod. “Yes mom, but come on let's hurry before all the cool stuff is taken.”  “Chill dude.” Lisa said, leaning against the car, as my moms made sure we had everything we needed.  Luna nodded, “Good, now let’s head inside.” I grin and the four of us head to the entrance. People loved our costumes and even Lisa got into it a bit, most likely loving the attention. Once I'm inside I look around wide-eyed at all the cool stuff and even see a season one steven cosplay. We had some fun pretending to me from the past and future taking some pictures then we went deeper into the convention hall.  It was here that the place was super crowded. I could hear my family calling to me telling me.  “Jake! Where did you go, man?!” I heard Lisa call out,  “Jake honey where are you?!” Luna called out, “Jake, please give us a signal of where you are?!” Rosie was the next one to call for me. I look over the crown and carefully throw my backpack up into the air high enough for them to see it and catch it then look over and gasp when I see a glass model of Ship from Ben 10 alien force. I make my way to the stall and grin as I ask. “How much for Ship?”  “Ship here is worth $150, but I’m willing to bargain.” the guy said. I scratch my chin. “$150? Hmmm well, it is cool and good quality, how about $100?”  “Alright, deal.” he said, carefully picking up the glass Ship and holding it out to me. I smile and take it holding it close as I pay him the hundred dollars. I then turn around and see a massive crowd as grown behind me. I try to gently make my way through but am pushed back and forth. When I finally make it through the crowd I trip over my flip-flops and fall, dropping the glass figure and hearing it break. “Damn it!”  I hear the man from the stall say. “All sales are final!”  “What?!” I said in disbelief. I grumbled as I looked at the shattered remains of Ship, I then opened my cheeseburger backpack and began putting the remains in it. “$100 down the drain, maybe I can glue it back together at home.” I put my backpack back on and then look around and rub my stomach as it gurgles. I spot a chili dog stand and grin as they are my favorite and make my way to it. “Sweet at least this part of the trip won't be a complete letdown.” I ordered one and just as I was about to take a bite, somebody bumped into me, causing me to drop my chili dog on my shirt, ruining it. “DAMN IT!!” I said angrily, “First Ship shatters, then this!!” I said, asking for napkins, and began to clean off the chili. “This can’t get any worse.” I decide to look for my family and pull out my phone as I look around but a strange stall catches my eye first. It is surrounded by glass walls and when I get closer I see it has a conveyor belt with stuff on it. I see a sword that looks similar to Samurai Jack’s, a silver disk, what looks like a carton of metal eggs, a robotic backpack, a sword, gun, and Morpher from power rangers, as well as a red ship in a bottle. But to top it all off I see not just Rose Quartz’s sword but the gems of each of the main characters minus Steven’s.  “Holy crap, how much for those!?” I push my face against the glass. Then a holographic Moogle appears. It is mostly white with purple batlike wings and a single antenna on its head ending in a bug red fuzzy ball.  “How much for what? Kupo.” it said,   “Cool! A talking hologram, um those gems and the pink sword please.” I ask, pointing to each.  “Okie Dokie! Each one costs $10 each! But I must war-” “Sold! Please they look just like in the show.” I say almost drooling over them then I take out the money and see the conveyor belt start to move, sliding each item into a slot for me.  “Okie Dokie buddy! Hope it was worth it! Kupo!” the Moogle said, disappearing. I smile as I open my backpack and open the slot and start putting the gems into a different pocket than the smashed Ship figure then I strap the sword onto my back and turn around just as I hear Lisa and wave at her taking a step before I start falling forward. my eyes start feeling heavy. “Dude! There you...are….” I heard Lisa’s voice start to fade out, then nothing. I groan as I sit up and rub my head. “Man my head hurts what happened?” I hear birds and look around then blink fully awake. “Where the hell am I?” as I stand up my foot kicks my backpack, knocking out the gemstones I bought. Then to my shock pearls stone starts to glow and lifts into the air.  A white glow took a humanoid shape than when it disappeared, there stood Pearl, she was a tall Gem, she had light pink hair and her Gem was on her forehead, she wore a light blue jacket over an equally light blue shirt, blue pants, and pink dancer shoes. “Ah, much better, don’t know how I-” Pearl said, then looked around, “H-how did I get here? What is this place?! And where is Steven?!” she shouted, looking around. My eyes widen when I see what was supposed to be a replica is real. “Pearl?” I said, shocked and unbelieving.  She turned to me, her eyes wide, she then tackled me in a bear hug, “STEVEN!! Oh thank Star you’re alright!! But you look so much older now?! How did this happen?!” she said, looking me over. I shake my head and push her away. “Wait, Steven? My name is Jake! How are you even real? You were supposed to be a replica!” I say backing up from her balling my fists. “Steven what are you talking about? I’ve always been real and I’m not a replica. I don’t know why you would think that! Did you hit your head or something?”  Just then Amethyst's gem starts glowing and she starts to form. “What the hell?! Both of you are real? And stop calling me Steven, my name is Jake.” I grab my hair, then my eyes widen as I feel curly hair. I pull some down to my line of sight and see black hair.  “What the hell is going on! Where is my blond hair?” I ask myself as I back up further from her as I see Amethyst fully formed now and I lift my shirt and gasp when I see a pink gemstone where my belly button should be.  “Yo Pearl, what’s up Steven? And why does he look older?” I heard Amethyst say to Pearl. “I-I don’t know. But he thinks his name is Jake! I think he may hit his head, or worse his gem could have been tampered with!” Pearl said, freaking out. I absentmindedly reply to pearl as I pace back and forth. “Even if someone messed with Steven’s gem, it wouldn't change who he is mentally because his mind is in his human brain, not his gem. At least that's one of the fan theories out there.” I look at my hands and notice they are fatter than normal. Then I look around for something reflective.  I spotted a small pond and ran towards it, I braced myself then looked, and staring back at me was the face of Steven fucking Universe!! “What the fuck! Why do I look like Steven fucking Universe!?” I scream, shocked, and get even more scared when for a split moment I see my eyes change to diamonds. Then I'm distracted when I see a glow behind me and turn to see ruby and sapphire’s gems glowing and start floating up. Like Pearl and Amethyst, the white glow took a humanoid shape, except, smaller, once the glow went away, Ruby and Sapphire stood, Ruby took one look and me and she jumped back in surprise. “Whoa Steven! Why are you so much older now?!” she asked. “This is rather odd indeed.” Sapphire said next. I groan and get up and face them all. “I am not Steven. I don't know why I look like him. My name is Jake, just...give me a minute to think.” I rub my forehead.  “Ship?” I spun and looked at where the noise came from, which was the cheeseburger backpack.  “No way...if the gems all became real does that mean…” My eyes widen as I rush for the backpack. “My stuff!”  I kept opening pockets and when I opened the last one, a black and green blur shot out of it, when it landed, it resembled a long black blob with green circuit-like lines on it with two little nubs at the front, a green circle was the only thing on its face. “Ship? Ship?” it said, looking at me curiously. I stare at it in shock and then back to my backpack for a moment. “You better not have eaten my phone and tablet.” I check to make sure they are safe but hear Amethyst and Pearl summon their weapons. Looking up at them I am a bit annoyed to see them looking like they are gonna fight Ship.  “Steven, get away from that thing!! We don’t know what it is!!” Pearl shouted, pointing her spear at Ship, who looked frightened and ran and hid behind my legs. “Ship” it said timidly with a sad face on its head. “Pearl, leave the poor galvanic mechamorph dog alone, he is just as lost as you three...er four, sorry you two.'' I say to her, then look at Ruby and Sapphire. Sapphire just shrugged, but the ground around her seemed to be turning to ice. “But Steven, we don’t even know what a galvanic mechamorph is?!” Pearl said,  “You don't but I do, he is harmless unless you are a machine or are threatening someone he cares about. He can only say ‘ship’ but he is smarter than he looks.” I tell her then grin as I pull out my phone and tablet. “Yes!” “Steven, what are you doing?! This no time to be on your devices!” Pearl said. I glare at her for a moment. “I am trying to find out where I am and for the last time I…” I stand up. “AM..” My skin starts turning pink. “NOT….” I stomp my foot making cracks shoot out around me. “STEVEN!” Everything shook from the force of my yell, along with large gusts of wind. Pearl dropped her spear and covered her mouth in shock, Amethyst was shocked as well, but remarked, “You look pretty badass dude.” While Ruby and Sapphire both were pushed back from the force of my shout.  I pant and look down and jump in surprise “S-Shit...Pearl how do I turn off Pink Diamond’s powers?!” I back up but as I do, I start returning to normal. “I-I…” Pearl stammered, too shocked to speak. She then shook her head, “I don’t know, I didn’t even know you can do that!!”  I take a deep breath and let it out and fully return to normal. “Damn it...it seems I really do have Steven’s body…” I think quickly and look to Ship. “Ship could you go through my tablet and find all the videos marked Steven Universe and show them?” I say to it but lift my tablet out of reach. “Without destroying it?” It tilted its head cutely, then gave a happy, “Ship Ship!” It kept saying bouncing up and down. I then heard something land in the water, looking in the direction of the sound, I see a faint glow, walking to it, I see something in the water, picking it up to reveal what looked like a lapis lazuli gem in the shape of a diamond with two black rings forming an x around it. The moment I pick it up I hear two voices in my head. “We are the Displaced duo of Lightning and water, if you need our aid, raise this Token to the air and shout Chaos control,” then the two voices were replaced by one dark voice, “But be warned, if you bring death and destruction to the innocent, PREPARE TO DIE!!” “Chaos control?” I muttered confused.  Then storm clouds began to swirl above us, lightning and rain raging around us, then a lightning bolt struck the ground just away from us, a portal opening. I could faintly hear strange sounds then a robot fell through. It got up and looked at us, it raised a gun at us and before anyone could do anything, a robotic hand burst through its chest followed by another, this one more organic looking, the robot was lifted then torn in two. ‘What on earth?!’ I think as I jumped back and subconsciously reached back and grabbed the sword that was still on my back. “Who are you?” “I’m someone who could kill you in an instant.” a voice said behind me, while a blade was pressed against my neck. “So why don’t you do us all a favor and let go of the sword, slowly, and I’ll do the same. Deal?” “STEVEN! Let him go whoever you are!” Pearl yells as she holds her spear up. Only for the water to suddenly rush forward and grab her. “As I said, let go of the blade. And no one gets hurt.” I look over to see Lapis Lazuli and my eyes widen. “Lapis? When did you get here?” I slowly let go of the sword and looked over my other shoulder to see Ruby and Sapphire are held in water bubbles apart from each other, and Amethyst is held in a ball of mud.  “Good.” The voice said, moving the blade away from my neck, as Lapis Lazuli released the others. “Sorry about that.” I turned around and saw a strange sight, it looked like a yellow anthropomorphic animal of some kind, it had two long ears with black tips, a thunderbolt shaped tail, crazy hair with a large bang covering most of his right eye, a red scarf was around his neck, he had blue eyes, one arm appeared to be robotic while the other was normal with a strange gauntlet, and he had large chest fur. “Names Rick.” Rick said, holding his hand out. I raise an eyebrow and say. “Ok Rick mind telling me what on earth you are and where I am? And how my replicas became real?” I ask him as I wave my arm at the gems who seem very confused. “Ah, a new blood, well I can give you the short answer or the long answer. Just say the long answer, there is no way to simplify the explanation I’m about to give you.” Rick said, I shake my head still confused and say. “Long answer then, one minute I'm having the worst luck, the next I buy them.” I gesture at the gems. “And pass out waking up here looking like Steven.” I then remember I haven't introduced myself so I offer my hand. “Jake.” He shook it, “Nice to meet you, as for the explanation, you might want to take a seat.” He said, sitting down on the grass. “Everyone.” We all did as he said, and sat down, “Alright, here is how this goes, you are Displaced, short for Dimensionally Misplaced, basically, a guy/girl or a large group enter a Con, buy something from a shady guy running a stall, and they end up here.” He spread his arms out, gesturing to the forest surrounding us. I look around then back to Rick. “So how do I get home? I don't want my moms and sister to worry about me.” Rick just stared, then let out a sigh, “Sorry, I really am, but you’re not gonna see them again. This forest isn’t your typical forest, it belongs to a show known as My Little Pony Friendship is Magic. And that means we are in Equestria, the land of ponies and harmony.” Lapis said as I looked at her. “What? Do you mean I can't go home? And what the hell is My Little Pony? Sounds like a stupid show about baby animals.” I start to glow pink as I get madder and madder. “Tell me how I can get home right now!” That’s when I froze, I don’t know why, I just did, staring at Rick as I felt some sort of pressure, weighing down on me. Just saying to try something. Then I realized it was Rick who was putting this pressure on me, there was a crater right where he was sitting as his hair seemed to be blown slightly up. “Kid, calm down, or things get violent.” I struggle glowing brighter as I start to glare at him. “I don't know if you have a family but I do and I want to get back to them so tell me how to get home.” “But Steven we don't know where the beach city is from here, or where the closest warp pad is.” Pearl said and I snapped my head to her. “For the last goddamn time.” I stand up, now unaffected by Rick's pressure. “I AM NOT STEVEN FUCKING UNIVERSE!!” I yell and accidentally send a sound wave at her. A yellow blur sped towards her, and the next thing I knew she was gone, just when the sound wave tore apart the area where she was. “Kid, calm down, she doesn’t know any better but you do, so calm down before I make you.” I turned my head to Rick, who was holding Pearl bridal style, and placed her down, “Getting angry doesn’t solve your problem. In fact, it only makes things worse for you.” I grab my head as I try to calm down. “Damn it I just wanted to go to comic con with my moms and sister!” I slowly return to normal as I relax.  “I get it kid, you thought nothing could have gone wrong, you thought you would live happily ever after with your moms and sister.” Rick said, placing his robotic hand on his shoulder. “But life sometimes likes to screw with us.” I look down and to the gems then back to Rick. “So if they are real are you some kind of corrupted gem?” “Oh no, I’m not from Steven Universe, I’m a Pikachu.” he said, I raise an eyebrow. “What the fuck is a Pikachu?”  Rick then had one of those anime shocked faces, while Lapis let out a laugh. “What the fuck is a Pikachu? It’s a Pokemon man. Wait let me guess, you don’t play it, do you?” I tilt my head and ask. “What is Pokémon? I've never heard of it.”  “You know what, I’m not gonna bother explaining it. Here.” Rick said, holding out a bag that had a 3DS with different game cards, each one with the word Pokemon on it. “Play these from the number order I marked on them. Then you’ll know what Pokemon is.” I look at the bag then shrug and put it in my backpack then look at Rick. “Mind helping convince them I'm not Steven?” I ask while pointing at the gems with my thumb.  “Well, I was gonna explain why you look like him in the first place.” Rick said, “Basically, anyone who dresses up as their favorite character and gets sent to Equestria, becomes that character, though they have memories of their normal life. So Crystal Gems, he may look like Steven but he isn’t Steven in the head.” Rick said, tapping his head. Pearl looks between me and Rick then asks him. “Then where is our Steven? If he isn't Steven, what happened to our steven?” “Well, there isn’t a ‘your Steven’, cause at the same time he is your Steven, just a different mind. Though I think there are rare chances of Displaced meeting the characters they cosplayed as while in Equestria, but he is your Steven.” Rick said.  “So what you're saying is this guy,” Amethyst leans over me annoying me. “Is like another cut of our Steven?” “If that’s how you want to put it.” Rick said, shrugging. “Amethyst! We don't use that language anymore!” Pearl yells at her.  I roll my eyes and look to ruby and sapphire. “Is there a reason why you aren't fused? Normally you are always fused.”   They look at each other for a moment then to me and sapphire says. “It's strange, when we first woke up here we started to, but then we saw so many futures we couldn't handle it and Garnet fell apart.” “I get it, they need time to adjust to the new environment, new life, all that. Otherwise, you have a constantly falling apart Garnet.” Lapis said, walking over to us, and I saw that she had Rose’s sword and shield on her back. “So they’ll need time to adjust.”  “Sounds like i-” Rick stopped mid-sentence and froze, his ears twitching this way and that, “I’ll be back.” was all he said as he brought his scarf up and covered half his face, then he sped off. “Where the hell is he going?” I ask confused as I watch his blur leaving. “No clue, he must have heard something that we couldn’t, he has heightened senses, but his hearing is remarkable.” Lapis said,  I cross my arms and sigh. “Damn so I'm stuck here...wait..” I look at my phone and grin seeing a signal and try to connect but it can't frown. I look to Ship. “hey Ship; can you upgrade my phone to work?”  “Ship Ship! Ship Ship!” it said, bouncing up and down again, then latched onto my phone as it spread all over it, then detached itself as it landed at my feet. “Ship Ship!” “Kid, don’t bother trying to call your family, it doesn’t work like that, trust me, Rick tried and failed. Displaced aren’t allowed to contact their family, no matter how much they plead.” Lapis said, “But you are welcome to try if it'll give you some glimmer of hope.” I smile and say. “It can't be fully connected but thanks to Ship I should be able to say goodbye.” I start typing a long message trying to explain everything I can. Then once I'm finished I press send and watch as it sends and confirm it got sent. “yes!” “Well, at least you said goodbye. I’m glad for you kid.” Lapis said, patting me on the back. I nod and sigh. “Yeah, so what now? Are I and the crystal gems the only Sentient life on this planet?”  “Ship!” Ship said upset. Lapis just stared, then gave an “Eeynope!” She said with a wide grin, “Equestria is habited by other life, all of it sentient, but the most dominant species in Equestria are the ponies.” I groan softly and roll onto my back. “Well damn...at least I won't go nuts with more people to talk to, but what are we gonna do for food and shelter?” “Well you are in luck cause the ponies are the friendliest creatures, sorta, there are times where they are xenophobic to creatures they haven’t seen before or aren’t..ahem, a pony.” Lapis said, “But don’t worry, I’m sure they’ll welcome you as long as you don’t appear threatening.” I give a thumbs up while laying on my back. “So no Amethyst got ya.”  “Hey!” She sounded annoyed then she said. “Meh, he's right.” Lapis laughed. “I think Amethyst will be alright.” She said, laying down as well. “So got any questions for me?” “Yeah, anywhere we can go for now that is safe in case these ‘ponies’ aren't friendly to us?” I ask and look over at her. “Well, I know a few areas, there is an old castle deep in the forest, it’s a bit ruined, but it’ll serve as a shelter. Once Rick comes back we’ll take you there. Anything else?” she asks, looking at him. “Ship?” Ship asks her shapeshifting into lots of different pieces of technology.  “You want technology huh? Well, Rick is the one with tech, I just control water and have Rose Quartz’s sword and shield. No tech on me.” she said, scratching under his chin, causing it to let out a mechanical purr. I look over at him then to her and say. “I think he is asking what level of tech do they have here.”  “Ah, they are medieval types, though there are rare chances of advanced tech, though they are more magic-based than anything. Sorry buddy.” she said. Ship seems to melt at that.  “Sorry little guy.” I told him. “Excuse me but are you one of these...Displaced? Or are you a gem like us?”  Pearl asks her. “I’m a Displaced, bought these and ended up in Equestria with Rick.” she replied, pointing to the sword and shield. I chuckle and lift my shirt showing my new gem. “You have a copy, I'll be able to summon the real thing.” “This the real thing in my world, the shield is able to withstand the same amount of force yours can. Sword is built the same, at least the one who made the sword says so.” Lapis said. “If you say so, if I can manage to summon my shield then I'll probably practice to throw it like Captain America.” I say as I sit up with a sigh. Then I heard something, looking to where the sound was coming from, which was from the trees. I watched as everyone brought out their weapons. I stand up and hold out my arm, trying to summon my shield but it doesn't come out. So I grab my sword and hold it out and I can tell from the look Pearl gave me that I was holding it wrong. “What was that?” “No clue, whatever it is-” Then jumping from the trees, was Rick. He did flip as he landed in front of us. I let out a breath and lowered the sword. “Geez, you spooked us.” “Sorry, but was kinda in a hurry to get back, sorry for my sudden departure. I had heard something and went to investigate.” Rick said. I raise an eyebrow but Pearl beats me to my question. “Excuse me mister Rick, but what were you investigating?” “Turns out some ponies have wandered into the forest, I did them a favor and led them out. The forest is dangerous to ponies, too many predators. But nothing we can’t handle.” Rick said,  “I see, well I think we should get Steven to somewhere safe. Maybe this old castle your Lapis mentioned.” Pearl said to Rick. Rick nodded his head. “Good plan, it’s starting to get late, and you do not want to be in the forest at night. Let’s go, I know the way.”  I nod at Rick. “Then lead the way, and Pearl...I am not Steven, my name is Jake!”  “Calm down dude, they still need a little time, but they’ll call you by your real name soon.” Lapis said. I sigh and start following Rick but keep my sword on my shoulder as I’ve seen on tv. “Fine, so Rick how did you find us?” “I have a good sense of direction, plus heightened hearing, kinda followed the sound of your voices.” Rick said, keeping an eye out. I shake my head. “No, I mean when you first arrived.” I correct myself and watch the forest floor so I don't trip. “Oh, we didn’t, you found a Lapis Lazuli gem in the shape of a diamond with two black rings forming an x over it?” Rick asked. “Yeah.” I reach into my backpack and pull it out but now it's all gray. “huh?” “First time I’m seeing it do that too, but that’s called a Token, Displaced create them to send out and meet other Displaced, either to talk or help them with whatever it is they need help with, that’s me and Lapis’s Token.” Rick explained. “Huh...neat...can it be made out of anything? And can I meet other humans?” I ask as I put it back in my backpack and dig around inside.  “Well, they won’t look like humans but yes, you can meet other people.” Rick said. I pulled out a small toy of Steven I had bought the day before and forgot to take out and remove the sword from it. “How about this?” “Yeah, you can use anything that describes you, all you gotta do is focus real hard and state your creed, which is something other Displaced can use to know what kind of person you are.” Lapis said, flying above us. “Hey, why not make it like the original theme song?” “Theme song?” Pearl asks confused. “She means the song Steven made for the crystal gems.” I say and pull out my phone and load up the video and show her.  She and the others watched it in fascination and once it was over, she said. “That was beautiful and quite strange.” “Yeah, where I'm from gems, Steven, all of you, are just fiction and part of an animated tv show. That's how I know about you all, but I am in the body of a 16-year-old Steven.” I tell them and just as I turn to face where I'm walking I trip and hold out my hands to catch myself but a hexagonal energy shield appears in front of me, which surprised me.  “Huh, what do you know, looks like you managed to summon a shield.” Rick said. I stand up and the gems look at the shield as it fades away. “Yeah but that is Steven's other shield he used in future.” “Well, you are in Steven Universe's body, just his future self.” Lapis said, “True I suppose. I guess I'll have to learn how to control two sets of powers.” I say and rub my head with a sigh. “Hey, kid, if you need help, I’m here for ya, I had problems with my powers as well, but I’ve learned to control them. If you need help, just ask.” Rick said, looking up in the sky, seeing that the moon was coming up. I look up at the moon and tilt my head. “Huh, that is a strange set of craters on this world's moon.” I say after seeing what looks like the shape of a unicorn's head made of craters.  “Shit! You're in that timeline.” I heard Rick say, as I turned to him, I saw him and Lapis with worried looks on their faces. “Timeline? What are you talking about? And why do you look scared, it's just some craters on the moon's surface.” I say with a dismissive shrug.  “Well, Displaced get sent to different points in the show's history, but you are before the very first episode.” Rick said,  “First episode? Oh right this world is based on a tv show, so the show is gonna start soon? What was the problem?” I say as we come up to an old rope bridge.  “Well there is a villain who comes back, and she is a really tough character. And, her prison is the moon.” Rick said, pointing at the moon, “She was sent there after becoming jealous of the love her sister was getting from their subjects, becoming the Mare in the Moon, Nightmare Moon.” Rick explained, stopping Pearl from stepping onto it.  I chuckle. “What kind of name is Nightmare moon?”   “If you think the name is silly, don’t say that around her. She is very powerful, like Diamond level strong.” Rick said, “Well, not really, she could be stronger, but I’m using the Diamonds as an example. But that's how strong she is. Gave me an ass-kicking I wouldn’t forget.” he pressed a button on his arm, and a small device came up, he threw it out to the center of the gorge and a small bridge appeared. He walked onto as we followed. “Well, I'll be sure to go nowhere near her then.” I say as I cross the bridge then look up at the castle and see all the damage. “Damn this place looks hundreds of years old with all the damage and overgrowth. Hey Pearl, do you girls know how to create a temple?” “Well yes. Why?” she asked. “Well, this place looks like it could collapse at any moment, why don’t you girls make a new temple here, Though I do have a few suggestions. If possible one of the suggestions is don't make my room like rose quartz is, as cool as it is I don't wanna end up trapped in it like Steven did that one time. Another suggestion is to make it expand itself so we can include other gem doors if more crystal gems show up.” I tell her and point out possible upgrades.  “I can help as well. But first, I need to check out the town, see how close Nightmare Moon's return is. Here.” Rick said, handing Lapis a small cube. “Help him out as much as you can. I’ll be back.” Lapis nodded her head. Rick then cracked his knuckle with a toothy grin. “Time to let the beast out!” with that he began to change, he got bigger as paw-like feet burst from his shoes, his actual arm grew claws as he grew a wolf-like snout when he opened his eyes, they were completely black except for his blue eyes. He let out a howl and ran forward. Disappearing into the woods. “um...Did he just go werewolf?” I am a bit worried. “Don't be ridiculous Steven...Jake... there is no such thing as werewolves.” Pearl says as the others nod. “Actually Pearl, he is a werewolf.” Lapis said, placing the cube down, “And trust me when I say that myths on Earth like dragons, are very real here.” The cube then grew in size, and as it grew, it pushed away dirt and rocks, once it was done, it was the size of a small house. Lapis then entered a code on the side and it opened.  “Cooool!” Amethyst tried to rush inside. “Amethyst!” Pearl tried to stop her as Ruby and Sapphire stood there and watched. I shook my head and sigh. “Got any books or better videos of information on this world?” I asked lapis.  “Yeah, just in here, of course, mind the mess, Rick likes to experiment here time from time.” Lapis said.  “Please, it’s not even close to Stevens's old room, how big can it be?” Amethyst asked, “Appearances can be deceiving Amethyst, just listen to Lapis here.” I tell her as I follow them inside. Inside was a large room that could easily fit three warehouses, every space was occupied by all manner of tech, and moving to and fro were robots. And just like Lapis said, there was a mess. “Follow me.” she said, walking forward. I follow her without question as I look around and I hear Ship ‘barking’ excitedly. “Ship, don't touch anything without permission it's not our stuff.”  “Here we are.” I heard Lapis say, leading us to a simple living area, there was a large sofa facing all sorts of TVs. “You can use this to learn more about MLP.” “Cool mind if I get copies of the info?” I ask holding up my tablet.  “Yeah, there is wifi here, so you can look up the information.” Lapis said, sitting down, “Thanks. Pearl, can you and the others work on the temple while I study?” I ask them as I set up my tablet to their wifi and start looking up information. “Of course.” I heard Peal say, then heard the Crystals Gems start to leave. “Seeing as you are a gem yourself, anything super important we should know?” I ask lapis after they leave.  “Nothing much, just your everyday Lapis, though with a few new tricks.” she said as a book hovered next to her. “Other than that, nothing much.” I sigh and tap at my tablet looking through the different species on this planet. “I was talking about dangers to gems on this world.” “Well, there are dragons, they eat gems, don’t know if they’ll eat you guys, but if the others were in their gems, then yeah. There are a few other dangers here but nothing they can’t handle, except for the more super-powered kind.” Lapis said. “Well isn't that just fantastic.” I say and rub my forehead then see a file on ponies. “Hold up magic? This world has magic?” “Yeah, and the most powerful magic users move the sun and moon.” She replied. “What? That's not possible the sun and moon are massive.” I say, shocked and disbelieving.  “Tell that to the ruler of the land, she is the one who controls the sun and moon, the reason for that is because she is an Alicorn, the most powerful and respected being to the ponies. She has the traits of all three races, the strength of the Earth Ponies, the flight of Pegasi, and the magic of Unicorns.” Lapis tells me.  “Holy crap...well I'll make sure to stay out of their way...wait, ruler? Oh god, don't tell me this world uses kings and queens.” I am annoyed and a bit upset.  “Nah, only princesses, there hasn’t been a king or queen.” Lapis replied, trying to find something to watch. I shake my head and lean back. “Damn...well if she is anything like the royals of earth, I am making my own country far away from her. I’m an American dammit, I refused to bow to anyone.” “Relax, the princess is friendly, she would rather make peace than war, hell, Equestria is the land of harmony. They haven’t seen war in a thousand years.” Lapis said, smiling as she began to watch Power Rangers Dino Thunder. “So you don’t have to worry about her, she is more like a mother than anything.” I cross my arms and think to myself. “That sounds nice, but I'll wait till I meet her myself. What else should I know about this world?” “Well, there are other races, dragons, minotaurs, griffons, hell, even Cerberus is here.” Lapis said. “Holy crap, that's a lot of different people this world must be at war all the time.” I shake my head trying to think of what we can do while downloading as much information onto my tablet as I can. “As I said, they ain’t at war, there haven’t been wars. The dragons rather sleep on their horde of treasure, griffons keep to themselves, the minotaurs I have no clue, and Cereraus guards the Gates of Tartarus.” She explained.  I look at her surprised. “So many different species all living together on one world and not constantly at war that's impressive.” I look and see the downloads are started. “Well, it seems we have some time to wait, how much do you know about Gems? I mean have you seen the whole show and more?” “Of course I’ve seen the show, it’s one of the best shows ever!” Lapis said, stars in her eyes. “And I know everything there is to know about Gems.” “That's good, then maybe you can tell me if all gems can store things in their gems or just Pearls.” I ask her as I tap at my belly gem.  “Hmm, well considering that Gems can summon their weapons from their gems, it only stands to reason that they do, but the only time I’ve seen Steven store things is inside Lion's mane. So it might be possible or not for you, considering you’re half-human, so you might not have all their powers.” “Maybe, but I thought a gem’s weapon was made of hard light like their bodies, not always solid objects.” I rub my chin thinking. “Yeah, sorry, it’s just I’m not used to giving advice.” Lapis said, “But my wings aren’t solid light, their water. So I think I might be right on them storing their weapons, well most things anyway.” I sigh and look down. “I guess I'll ask the gems about it, and I always thought that Lapis just made water wings using her hydrokinesis and we never actually saw her gem weapon.” “Hmm, true. I think hydrokinesis is her weapon. I mean why would you need anything else if you're constantly surrounded by water. Anyway, I think I'll ask the Gems some stuff too unless you think you can answer my questions?” She asked.  I shrug and say. “Maybe, as long as you don't need to know something never shown in the show.” “Well, it’s about fusion really.” Lapis said. I nod slightly. “I can try to answer it, but Garnet is the expert when it comes to fusion and I'm not even sure that Ruby and Sapphire can hold themselves together long enough to answer you, but it's worth a try if I can't answer you.” “Well…..” Lapis began, and I could see her cheeks start to become a deeper shade of blue, “You see I care about Rick, like a lot, but he is new to emotions and such, that was because he is Displaced as his OC, who is clueless to emotions, and I wanted to see if we can try fusing.” “Hmmm. I see, well unfortunately for you I don't see a way for you to fuse with him unless you have a way to somehow become half human or half organic at least, and still retain your memories. A gem can’t fuse with an organic being. The only reason Steven could was because he was half organic himself.” I told her with a small frown. Lapis looked saddened at the information. “I see.” she said. Then perked up, “How much do you know of Transformers Animated?” I chuckle and show her my screen saver for my table which is the whole Autobot team from the animated series.  “I’m guessing a lot, do you know that chamber that Blackarachnia used to make Waspinator? Well, would that work on gems if it were tweaked correctly seeing how it turned Cybertronians part organic?” She asked me.  “Hmm...maybe?” I say unsure. “If you are doing what I think you have planned, test it before you use it on yourself.”  “Good idea. I just need something to test it on though.” Lapis held her chin in thought. I rub my chin then say. “Well… maybe you could ask Pearl for a blueprint for an injector and create a gem to test it on.” “A gem? Like a living one? Or a nonliving one?” She asked.  “Well I have no idea of how the injectors work but maybe you can program it to create an animal version of a gem I a gem dog or something.” I say as an idea. “Hmm, alright, I think I can work with that.” she said, “Well if we have no more questions, I think we should relax now. Or I could make a knife version of Roses's sword if you want.” “Yeah, that sounds like something we can do. I still need to make a token I guess.” I stand up and follow her. “Alright, follow me. Rick had built a forge into this place after I was taught by a blacksmith.” Lapis led me through different hallways until we reached a large door, when it opened I was greeted by a blacksmiths forge, there was a smelting pit, an anvil, and different types of metal and what looked like gem pieces. I look at the gem shards and flinch a bit. Then I move over to lapis and give her the toy sword. “Like this but big enough for people to use.” “Right, stand back, this might be a little dangerous.” she said, walking over to few containers and grabbing different gems pieces, she put on a glove and put her hand in the lava then took it out, she placed the melted pieces on the anvil, took off the glove and her hand shaped-shifted into a hammer. She proceeded to slam the hammer on the pieces, flattening it out, then started to shape it. She then picked it up and put it in lava again, taking it out she cooled it off with water. She walked over to me and held out a knife version of Rose’s sword.” Well, what do you think?” “That was cool! I thought a Bismuth was the only type of jam they could shapeshift their limbs like that.” I say as I look over the knife. “Hey, where do you think I learned how to make weapons?” Lapis asked with a raised eyebrow. I look up at her. “You have a Bismuth?” I said surprised and chuckled. “cool.” “Well yeah, Displaced draw in things from the worlds they are dressed up as, me in this case, characters from Steven Universe. So don’t be surprised if you meet another Gem or something.” “Oh damn, hopefully, there aren't any diamonds here.” I say then slip the knife into my backpack. “Yeah, hopefully, now that is done, what do you want to do now?” Lapis asked. “I think I'm good, well I still need to find the gems so they can make the token with me, but yeah we are good.” I say as I look up at her. “Alright, I’ll take you to them, this way, oh and watch out for a loose tile, I’ve been meaning to fix that.” she said, walking out, only to bump into Rick.  “Oh sorry, I heard something and came to investigate it the moment I got back. Hey Jake, I see Lapis is showing you her forge huh?” Rick asked. “Kinda, she made my knife token for me, now we are going to find the gems so I can finish it.” I told him and patted my backpack. “Oh cool, well I saw them not too long ago, follow me.” Rick said, walking away from the forge.  I nod and follow him then see all the tech around then ask. “Hey Rick, do you think you or Ship could make a satellite?”  “A satellite? That’s child's play, but yeah I could, well not like a werewolf right now.  But yeah I could. Why?” He asked, “Well lapis tells me that gems could start showing up, I don't want to get caught with my pants down by a possible diamond authority.” I tell him as I look up at the star-filled sky.  “Ah, that’s a pretty good reason then. But as I said, child's play but not in werewolf mode right now, my mind is pretty much like a smart predator, so complicated tech would be difficult until the sun comes up.” Rick explained, entering the old castle. “That must suck, your powers and mental state are linked to the day-night cycle like that.” I say as I start looking around and see no sign of the gems yet.  “Yeah, but I still have some of my powers. Like this.” Rick said, his fist becoming covered in lightning, “Though it’s a little weaker than my normal lightning, I can still use it.” he opened another door and entered, and from the looks of it when I walked in, it was a throne room, at the thrones themselves were Pearl and Ruby. “Pearl, Ruby, what's up? How is the temple coming along?” I ask as I walk up to them. “Oh Jake, well the temple is nearly finished, we managed to make the door and are now making the inside of it right now, me and Ruby were just about to get you.” Pearl said. Pointing at the door, it resembled the classic door to the temple from the show. I chuckle and smile. “Cool, I’m guessing the others are inside?”  Pearl nodded. “Yes, they are.” I nod and look at Ruby. “Would you mind going and getting the others? We are gonna make what's called a token.” “Right.” Ruby said, then opened the door as it responded to her gem and went inside, moments later, she and Sapphire came out but no Amethyst. “I can’t find Amethyst! She was just in her new room!” “Yo dudes! Look what I found!” Amethyst said as she walks into the room from outside and holds up what looks like a dog made out of wood.  “Amethyst! Put that down! You have no idea where it's been!” Pearl scolds her.  “Um yeah I agree with Pearl, that’s a Timberwolf pup, which means if you don’t bring it back, we’re gonna have one angry momma and pack coming here.” Rick said, Lapis nodded her head in agreement. Amethyst pouts and bends her head back. “Awww come on it's been so boring around here so far!”  I facepalm and I open my mouth to say something only to hear wolf howls coming from outside. “Well...seems you got your excitement Amethyst good work…” I say with sarcasm. “Give it.” Rick said, grabbing the pup, “I’ll bring this little one back to its momma, the rest of you stay here.” “Good luck and if you need us, we will help.” I say as I step forward.  Rick nodded and ran out of the room, moments later, we heard a crash and ran to the window, looking out they see Rick just throwing what I guess were full-grown Timberwolves. “Ruby, Sapphire think you two can hold a fusion long enough for a fight?” I ask them while watching the fight, then I look over to them. “No offense but I don't know if you two can fight at all.”  “You are right Jake, Ruby?” Sapphire asks Ruby, who nodded. I watch as they hold each other's hand and start to dance similar to something you'd see in a ballroom, then they both start to glow red and blue before they spin together faster and faster before they fuse I to a ball that then takes on a humanoid form and when the light fades there stands Garnet she opens two of her three eyes.  “Steven? N-no.” she grabs her head for a moment. “Jake, I'm sorry this place is...different.”  “It's fine Garnet, try just focusing on the present, not the future.” I try to give her advice.  “R-right.” she said, I smile and nod then just as I turn to look out the window Rick runs in like a blur. “Oh, your back.”  “Timberwolves are trying to get inside.” He said, holding up the cut-up robotic arm. “Damn, I just adjusted it too.” I look out the window and see them ramming against the door. “Then maybe we should show them what gems can do.” I clench my fist and start turning pink  Pearl leans over to Rick and whispers. “Steven was never this violent, he would have tried to talk to the wolves.”  “Well, he isn’t Steven, same body, a different mind.” Rick said back. “We just need to scare them off is all. Think you can handle that?” Rick asked me. I think for a minute then grin. “I have an idea.'' I take my backpack off and dig through it before taking out a road flare. “This should scare them good.” I walk to the door and hold out my hand and close my eyes trying to make any type of shield and after about ten seconds a hexagonal shield appears. Then I push it forward, breaking the door and I pop the cap of the flare and light it, holding it to them.  “Listen here, one of us DID take your cub, but we returned it and plan on punishing the one who did it. Leave us alone and we will leave you alone, deal?” I try to talk to them while being ready to fight.  The Timberwolves glared and growled, but turned and left, though one was an ass by kicking dirt at us before leaving. I sigh and drop the flare onto the ground and walk back inside dusting myself off. “All done.” “Good, now Amethyst.” Rick said, looking at the said gem. “I believe we need to have a talk about taking things that don’t belong to you.” “Aw come on man! I didn’t know the little guy had parents, and it was boring here!”Amethyst said.  “That’s no excuse Amethyst, you should have checked to see if it had parents in the first place!” Pearl said. “Probably a good idea not to go anywhere near them for now, they were pissed off.” I add. “Yeah, for now, help Jake with his Token.” Lapis said. I nod and pull out the knife and hood it up. “Let's all hold it together and say the message.”  “What’s the message gonna be again?” Amethyst asked “I believe it was a song correct?” Garnet said, looking at me. I nod and say. “It was the song Steven made for the crystal gems as a group.”  “Alright, how did it start? With Garnet right?” Rick asked. “Yeah, go ahead Garnet.” Lapis said. “We~” Garnet began, then the rest of us joined in, “Are the Crystal Gems!~ We’ll always save the day! And if you think we can’t, we’ll always find a way!~That’s why the people of this world, believe in, Garnet, Amethyst, and Pearl!” “And Jake!” I finish, then look at Rick.  “Good work, now a portal would open up and you toss it in.” he said, just as a portal opened in front of us. I tossed in the Token and another fell in front of Rick and Lapis.  “So is that it?” I ask as I look at where the portal was. “Yep.” Lapis said, picking up the Token, “That’s all there is to do when making a Token, this one is for us.” “Alright, so well do you want to sleep in the temple till sunrise so you can make the satellite?” I ask Rick. “Actually, I wanted to do something with you first.” Rick said. “Oh? What is it?” I asked. “Well I noticed that you get really pissed off, and your powers are currently out of whack. So I thought maybe I can train ya?” Rick offered.  I groan and rub the back of my head. “Yeah, I've always had a problem with my temper.” “Well, I’ll help you out with that. And once we’re done, you’ll have some control over your powers and temper.” Rick said. “Good I’d hate to end up like season one or movie Steven.” I say as I walk up to Rick. “Alright, I know a place where we won’t destroy stuff. Well, actual stuff anyway.” Rick said. Then his fur became black, while the tips of his ears were white, and his eyes were ghost white, and his teeth had a slight glow to them. “Hello, I am Dark. A spirit that resides within Rick's mind.” I raise an eyebrow. “Do all Pikachus have two people in them?” I ask as I offer my hand.  He shook it, “No, I’m just a spirit who just happens to be born within his mind.” “Odd, but neat.” I say then lower my hand. “Rick was about to give me some training though.” “I know, but he needed me to create your training ground. I.D Create.” Dark said, as dark tendrils grabbed my arm, then everyone disappeared. “Good, now you two can start your training, though I must split first.” then Dark seemed to slide off of Rick and looked like Rick did before he became a werewolf. He then raised his hand towards Rick as a rune appeared on his hand and Rick's chest, then in a flash Rick was no longer a werewolf. “Ok that is scary but cool, you're like the black shadow.” I chuckle.  Dark just shrugged and flew off. “Alright, now that I am back to normal, we can start your training.” Rick said, cracking his knuckles. Then in a blur, I ended up on the ground, holding my stomach. “We’ll start with combat, cause what better way to trigger your powers in combat. Don’t worry, I’ll give ya advice as we go.” I growled as I got up, and pulled the sword out of its scabbard, “Cheap shot!” I rushed at him and swung my blade, he effortlessly dodged it by ducking down and swiped my feet from under me. I landed on my back hard. “Lesson 1, bad guys don’t care about fairness.” he said. “Good to know.” I said, throwing dirt in his face, he swore as I tackled him, I punched him before he brought his robotic arm up, the center of his palm glowing before a beam hit me in my chest, sending me flying back, I rolled back a little before stopping. Standing up, I just had enough time to block his fist. I kept trying to block his punches with my sword, but he started to land punches on me as he started to go faster. I had enough and concentrated and a hexagonal shield appeared, with a shout I rammed Rick with it, sending him crashing into the woods. Huffing I smirk. “How do you like that!”  “Not bad.” I hear him say, walking forward as if the attack hardly fazed him. “But not good enough!” he charged forward, grabbing me by the collar of my shirt and slammed me down on the ground, dragging me across it as he ran, he then tossed me up and followed after me, and delivered an ax kick, sending me crashing into the ground. Or I would have if I didn’t start to fall slowly, must be Stevens floating powers. “Damn it. Forgot Steven could do that.” Rick said as he landed on the ground. I look around as I am falling slowly and waving my arms trying to stay upright. “Wha! Ok ok, calm down think...in the show his powers worked with happy thoughts so..” I start thinking of my family and how I miss them and start falling faster and faster. “Aahhh!”  I then heard something spinning and I looked to see Rick charging at me like a spinning ball. “Lesson 2, take any advantage you can over an enemy!” he said, I brought up my shield, only for it to shatter as he broke through, he barely grazed me as I fell.  I close my eyes and curl up as I think of my family and start floating again just inches before the ground. I look around and laugh before landing on the ground with an “oof.” I heard Rick land and looked and saw he was speeding towards me, I dodged to the right as he punched the ground where I was. He smirked at me as a ball of lightning formed in his hand, he threw it at me, I summoned my shield again, blocking it, but he kept up the attack, summoning an orb of lightning in his good arm. “Lesson 3, if forced to take cover, either time your enemies attacks or find an opening.” he said. I counted the time he attacked my shield. “Okay, it takes three seconds for him to attack after throwing, so after this one.” I said, just as a lightning ball hit the shield, causing cracks to appear, I dropped the shield and threw my sword at him, just as he prepared another lightning orb, the sword impaled the orb, causing it to shock Rick, causing him to dance around. I laughed at him, wiping a tear from my eye, I ducked under his fist. “Clever thinking, using my own attacks against me. That’s also part of combat, clever thinking.” Rick said, trying to deliver a roundhouse kick, I blocked it with my arm. He then sent a flurry of punches, each one landing and hurting me. “Another thing that is part of combat, learning your opponents' weakness.” he then sped behind me and was about to land a blow but I summoned my bubbled shield, pushing him back, I made it disappear and tried to bubble my fists, but I just couldn’t, they keep appearing but popping. “And your weakness kid is your lack of control over your powers.” I looked at Rick only to get punched in the face, I raised my fist and punched his face back.  We kept punching each other, until I had enough and with a shout, I punched Rick sending him sliding back, crashing through trees and into a boulder. I huffed as I looked at my fist, seeing it in a spiked bubble, and the rest of me glowing pink. I heard coughing and saw Rick getting off the boulder, he looked at me, a grin on his face as he wiped the blood from his lip, I also saw some cuts on his chest. “Not bad kid.” he charged at me, I summoned my shield and sent it at him, he just punched through it, I kept it up though, sending shield after shield.  No matter how many shields I send Rick just punches through them getting closer and closer. I start breathing heavier and my pink glow gets brighter as my shields get thicker and grow spikes. ’Damn it! First, my glass model breaks, then I lose my lunch and then I lose my FAMILY! I refuse to lose anything else!’  I grit my teeth and run at Rick with super pink speed and punch his face. “RAH!” Rick was sent flying deep into the forest, I ran after him, the moment he got close to the ground, I punched his stomach, causing a small bit of blood to come out of his mouth, before he was sent flying again, the moment he landed, I jumped into the air and summoned three shields with hexagonal patterns on them, and when he got up, I slammed them into him. “You shouldn’t have messed with me!!” I said, summoning a platform with the same hexagonal patterns on it, then it grew spikes, I then sent it at him. It got closer and closer until.……... “DRAGON SPIRIT UNLEASH!!” I heard Rick shout out, then a large plume of blue fire appeared, destroying the spiked platform, and creating a large crater. I looked at him and saw that he now had blue fiery wings, his feet were replaced by a three-clawed dragon's feet, his eyes were closed and when he opened them, his iris were ruby red and slit like a dragon, the whites of his eyes were replaced by the same fiery blue with the same blue flames coming off the sides of his. “Dragon Spirit Pikachu.” I jump back holding my hands up, making lots of spiked bubble shields and roaring as I throw them at him. He spread his wings and flew at them, blue fire covered his arms, resembling dragon claws, he cut through them with ease. And was getting closer, I bubbled my fists, both having spikes as I flew at him as well, once we got close to each other, we pulled our fists back and sent them forward punching each other's fists, and with speeds too fast that I had a hard time seeing, we kept either blocking each others blows or tried to land a hit ourselves, and as we kept trying to land a hit, we kept flying around, creating shockwaves as we did. ‘I don't know how much longer I can keep up with him!’ I think to myself as we fight with super speed throwing and blocking punches and kicks.  I then see that he is smirking as if he knows I can’t keep up or, ‘He’s having fun.’ I let a small smile appear, ‘Truth be told even though I tried to kill him, this is fun!’ “There you go, kid!” Rick said, as our fists met again. “Now you’re starting to have fun! Think you can keep going?” I punched him as he blocked it while crashing into a mountain, I grin and keep fighting but then my stomach growls loud enough he hears it. “Guess not. I think it’s time for a break anyway.” he said, flying to me. “Yo Dark, how about letting us out of here?” “I.D Escape.” I heard Dark say right next to me as he grabbed me and Rick, then the next thing we knew, we were in front of the Crystal Gems and Lapis. I looked to thank Dark but saw that he became a mist and floated to Rick, and seemed to disappear the moment he made contact with him. “Now let’s go eat, I’ll make something in my lab, you wait in the castle.” Rick said, walking to the still opened lab. “Um ok, I guess, thanks oh um if you can I’d like some chili dogs please.” I say with a grin. Pearl runs up to me and looks me over. “Oh Steven, what did he do to you? You just disappeared out of nowhere!” I pat her back. “I'm fine Pearl and I'm Jake, remember? Also, he was helping me train and get control of my gem powers.” “Right, Jake. And if he was helping you, then I guess I can be ok with it. Just make sure to let him know to tell us first.” Pearl said, letting out a sigh. I chuckle and smirk. “You remind me so much of my mom Luna.” I then lean on a window and hear something rustling and look out and see a brown feather slowly floating down from a tree branch. ’Huh, must be an owl or something.’ “Yo, the food’s ready!!” I heard Rick say, coming out of the lab, holding a plate of chili dogs. “Dragon Spirit has so many other uses than fighting.” he said, and I see he was still in his Dragon Spirit form. I smile and go over to the makeshift table that someone set up and rub my hands together. “Looks delicious.”  “Thanks.” Rick said, sitting down. Then a large plate full of meat was placed in front of him. I looked and saw that it was Lapis who made the place.  “Figured you would do something like this, so I prepared this for you.” she said, I reach for the food but Pearl lightly slaps my hand. “Manners Jake.”  I huff and roll my eyes. “May I please have some chili dogs?” I ask with annoyance in my voice.  “Uh yeah here.” Rick said, handing me the plate, before immediately scarfing down every last piece of meat on his plate. I smile and eat them and feel a bit better as chili dogs are my favorite food. “I was about to have one before I came here but someone bumped into me and knocked it onto my shirt.” I show the stain on my shirt. “That sucks.” Lapis said. Sitting next to Rick. “Yeah and that was right after I bought Ship but tripped and he shattered.” I say and all the gems flinch and look at Ship confused as he looks back his tail wagging.  “Good thing he is a Galvanic Mechamorph, they can put themselves back together again even if he was shattered when he was glass.” Rick said, finishing the last piece of meat. Then tossed Ship a small item, it looked like a satellite, except with differences, it was more sword-like and pink. “Before we left I had Echo, my personal AI made the satellite you wanted, like I said child’s play. Oh, I also had her build this.” Rick held out a small metal orb to me. I tilt my head a bit as I take it. “Ok, what is it? Oh.” I look at Ship. “Ship I need you to put that satellite in orbit around this planet where it will not interfere with anything natural or unnatural about this planet think you can do that buddy?” “Ship ship!” he barked happily, then he began to grow in size and started to change shape. Once he was done, he now resembled a black X-wing with green circuit-like lines. “Ship!” he said, a tendril grabbing the satellite and flying off.  “I may have told Echo to show Ship different starships, in case you may need them. And that orb is connected to the satellite, which will grow in size once it reaches space, just place it in any part of the castle or temple and you can see everything the satellite has to show, it comes with an omnidirectional chair, with panels that show the surrounding area, which means you see everything in space at the same time. Better than changing cameras, it also comes with a cannon built into the sword part of it, to help by time for preparations if you want.” “Wow! Amazing, thank you, with this, I won't have to worry about being surprised by any gem ships that come this way.” I say with a grin and grip the orb tightly.  “No prob, and before I forget, the ponies here are anthro, which means they are humanoid in shape, except for the wings, pony-like heads, horns, and hooves instead of feet.” Rick said.  “Huh, well thanks at least we know what kind of world we are on.” I say as I eat another chilly dog. “Yep. Now is there anything else you need?” Rick asked,  “Hmmm… that's all I can think of, what about you girls?” I ask the gems.  “Well, I could use some food.” Amethyst said. “I could use something to help clean the castle. It’s absolutely filthy.” Pearl said next,  Garnet just shrugged and said. “I’m fine with anything really.” “Give me 10 seconds and I’ll have what you need.” Rick said, running into the lab, and ten seconds later, came out with three items. “A Bulba cleaner to help Pearl clean the castle, as well as fix it up a little, a food synthesizer for Amethyst, able to create any type of food she wishes and is solar-powered. And for Garnet, a smaller drone version of the Hulkbuster for training.” Rick said, handing each Gem their item. Pearl smiles and takes the bulba off to start cleaning. Amethyst cheers and takes the food synthesizer into the temple. And Garnet cracks a small smile. I chuckle and yell at Amethyst. “The temple better not smell of rotten food later and I am gonna use it when I need to!” “Whatever dude!” she called back. I shake my head then look at Rick. “Thanks for everything, so what now?” “Well if there isn’t anything else you need, just send me back. Just say ‘end contract’ and a portal will open back to me and Lapis’s home.” Rick said, “Before we go I think it’s time I tell you my real name, I’m Angie.” Angie said. I chuckle a bit and nod. “Nice to meet you Angie, well I guess I'll see you around, end contract.”  A portal opened just as Rick made the lab shrink, the two walked to the portal, “See ya kid, and what did you learn from our fight?” Rick asked.  “Enemies don’t fight fairly, take any advantage you can over an enemy, think cleverly, look for an enemy's weakness, wait for an opening, look for weakness and that’s it.” I said proudly,  “Aaaand.” Rick said, placing a hand on my shoulder, “Think positive when your anger comes up, think of the things that make you happy. If you do that, your anger will be easier to control.”  I nodded and the two entered the portal, causing it to close, I then heard a humming sound, following the noise to the cheeseburger backpack, I opened it and saw Ricks and Angie's Token was back to normal and glowing. “Huh, well I hope I get to see them again one day.” I close my backpack and start walking to the door to the temple as my gem starts to glow and the door opens, I walk into my new life. > Chapter 2 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- I blink my eyes from the brightness of my gem room and once they focus I see a pedestal. After walking up to it I see it seems to control the room and so the first thing I do is add walls around me in the shape of a house. After that I make the light source be a sun east of the house. Once everything isn’t trying to blind me I then start adding furniture only adding the bare minimum of what I need for now. I looked around and examined the work I’ve done so far, the place was pretty simple, with basic furniture like a couch, table, some chairs. I walked around a bit but stopped when I saw a portrait of my two moms and sister, some with me in them as well. I had a small smile on my face as I looked at each picture. I sigh softly and put a hand on the picture in front of me. “I promise to be the best son you raised. I'll never forget any of you.” Then I turn and walk to the exit and it opens and I walk out deciding to go outside and look at the stars.  Before I can head outside though I hear a loud thud from deeper inside the castle and decide to investigate. After a few turns, I thought it was probably the castle making the sounds, until I heard it again, this time closer, I looked in every direction as I slowly walked back. Until my back bumped into something, something small and alive. Slowly turning my head, I saw a brown anthro pony with a black and gray mane in some sort of Safari outfit or something, I jumped back as I summoned my shield just as the pony did the same, I saw the wings on their back and knew this intruder was a pegasus.  “Who the hell are you!?” I say aggressively while starting to spin my Hexagonal Shield. “I should be asking you the same thing!!” from the voice, I can tell they were a girl or mare, in this case, she had her wings spread out and had her fists raised. “You're the one that is in my home!” I lift my arm holding the shield and get ready to throw it at her. But before anything happens I see and hear Ship ender the hallway and call out. “Ship! Ship!” he calls out then looks angrily at the strange mare. The mare looked at Ship in shock, looking at me then Ship before she pulled out a whip as she glared at us.  I narrow my eyes at her and Ship growls at her. “I don't know who you are so I'll give you one chance to walk away.”   “Funny, that’s what I was gonna say to you.” The mare said, Ship growled as he changed into a small robot. “Seeing as this place was abandoned when we found it we claimed it as our home so you're the one invading our home!” I then look to ship for a second. “Ship go get the gems!” Ship gave a worried look to me as if he thought that I shouldn’t be left alone with an intruder.  I roll my eyes and say. “I can handle myself if I have to fight for a few minutes. Just get them, if she is hostile the more of us there are the better.” I tell Ship and then focus back on the strange mare and barely catch her starting to run so I throw my shield and it slams into the ground in front of her path.  She yelped in surprise before glaring at me, taking a battle stance. “Either tell me why you are here or leave! I have not had a very good day and really don't want to lose my temper again.” I warn her as I make two bubble shields above my hands and add spikes to them.  “Well that’s gonna be a problem as I’m not gonna do either!” she said, using her whip to wrap around a beam on the ceiling and gave it a strong tug, causing the ceiling to collapse, blocking my path to her, “Later.” I heard her say, followed by the sound of hooves moving away. “Damn it! Ship track her and tell me where she is through my phone!” I turn and run to the gem temple door and bang on it. ’I really hope Ship can link with my phone without touching it now.’  “Pearl, Amethyst, Garnet we have an intruder! Get your butts out here!” I yell as I continue to bang on the door. The door opened as said Gems came out, armed with their respective weapons, “Where?!” Amethyst asked, the three looking around. I pull out my phone and look at a new app and open it and now I have a map and can see through Ships eye. “She is a pegasus mayor that collapsed one of the hallways to separate us; she's currently heading towards what looks like a throne room.” I tell them and point the right way. “Then that's where we’ll go!” Garnet said, causing the rest of us to nod and run down the hallway to the throne room. Once we get there I look around then I hear flapping and look up in time to see a whip heading right for me. Thankfully Garnet grabs my shirt and pulls me back and the whip misses. “Thanks! Hey whoever you are, leave our home!”  I yell at her and make a few bubble shields. “And I said I am not leaving!” she replied, sending the whip at us again. We all move out of the way and Amethyst uses her whip against her, swinging it up and almost grabs the mare's leg but she moves out of the way. “Take this you uh..bad person?” I say sounding tough at first then turn confused and less confident as I can’t think of a line to say but throw the bubble shields at her like baseballs.  She effortlessly dodges them, and grabbed one with her whip, and sent it back at me, causing me to fly into a wall as my attack hit me. I grunt as I pull myself out of the wall and glared at her. “That hurt!” I yell standing back up. Pearl tries to take the mare down by firing energy from her spear at her but the damn mare keeps dodging everything we cry and till Amethyst got lucky and got a hold of her leg with her whip. “HA! Not so fast now are you? You big pigeon.” Amethyst said. The mare glares as she flies erratically, causing Amethyst’s whip to fly out of her hands. “UGH! Come on stay still!” Amethyst yells in frustration. I frown and look around the smirk and make a hexagonal shield and throw it to hit behind her while she is distracted by the gems and she slams into it and I see her face twitch in pain as she falls to the ground then I use another hexagonal shield to slam the mare against a wall leaving her head free. “Hey let me go!” she demanded angrily. “I don't think so. You break into our home, damage the place while running from us and lastly you attacked us!” I tell her pissing her off and press her against the wall harder. “Um, Ste-Jake, maybe you should take it easy on her.” Amethyst said, I look over and see that each of the gems seem to be troubled so I sigh and drop the shield and turn away. “fine.” The moment I turned I heard Pearl cry out, “Jake!” as she pushed me aside right when the mares whip hit her, or should I say Pearl's gem. I watched in horror as Pearl's gem cracked as she glitched out while falling to her knees. My eyes widen and I turn to face the stranger and roar with rage as I send a shield at her and slam her against the wall hard enough to crack the wall and I hear a sickeningly wet crack from her. “You are going to pay!”  I start glowing pink as I stomp closer to her, pressing her harder and harder but I'm stopped with Garnet putting a hand on my shoulder. “Jake don’t let anger control your actions! We can heal her, just calm down.” she said, I close my eyes and grit my teeth but take a breath and as I let it out I return to normal. “Don't let her escape, she will pay.” I tell Garnet then turn to look at Pearl and flinch when I see her glitching.  “Pearl, are you able to safely retreat into your gem?” I ask her as I kneel next to her. “I-I can, but I m-may not come o-out until it’s repaired.” Pearl said, shouting as she glitched again, her limbs being stretched out. I close my eyes and say. “I don't know if I can use steven's healing powers yet, I need you to go into your gem for two reasons, first because if I can't right now I will be able to bubble you and keep you from getting worse at least I'm assuming that the bubbles put gems in stasis so the crack won't grow. And second, because if I can use his healing powers it's gonna be gross and I know how you are about being clean.” I explain to her and watch as she glitches again this time her legs growing longer but have no support so they flop around like a wet noodle. Pearl nodded, “e-ekaJ thgirla.” she said, attempting to cover her mouth when she spoke backward. My eyes widened as I looked up at her gem and saw the crack in it was on the top left side and is almost to the center of the visible part of her gem. “Pearl just in case I can't use his healing powers, I promise to find a way to heal you.” I look into her eyes and she must see how determined I am as she nods and starts glowing and all of her body is pulled into her gem and I carefully catch it. “Ok...moment of truth.” I say to myself as I lick my fingers and for a split second in my mind, the image of pearl is replaced by one of my mothers and then I rub the spit on the crack and hope it works. I watched in joy as Pearl's gem started to heal, the crack disappearing. I laugh with joy and look at Amethyst and Garnet. “It worked!” “That’s great! Good job Jake!” Amethyst said, hugging him. Garnet gave a smile as she hugged him as well. “You did good Jake, now we just wait for Pearl to come out.” she said,  I nod and then stand up and hand Pearl over to Amethyst but stop thinking better of it and hand her to Garnet instead. “Now then what to do with this home invader and almost murderer.” I add while glaring at the strange mare and notice her right wing is laying limp and at an odd angle.  “I think we should talk to her, see why she is here.” Garnet said, but Amethyst glared at the mare, pulling out her whip. “I think we should just teach her a lesson!” she angrily said, I clench my fist and look at the ground thinking then look to Garnet. “You decide both me and amethyst are too emotional to decide anything.” Garnet nodded and walked up to the mare, who flinched as she glared at the stoic gem, “I know you are hurt, but if you tell us why you are here we will see what we can do about your wing, there is no need for anyone else to get hurt. Besides, I think you owe us an explanation for nearly killing one of our own.” Garnet said. The mare continued glaring, staying silent, then she spoke, “I-I didn’t want to kill anyone.” she said nervously. “But you nearly did, and you were lucky one of us has healing powers. Otherwise, you won't be talking right now. But we aren’t monsters, so please, tell us why you are here.” Garnet said, Daring was silent for a minute then began speaking. “I-I am here because there’s something here that could save Equestria from an ancient evil.” I look at the mare and frown. “What could possibly be in an old abandoned castle?” “Do you know who this castle used to belong to? Equestria’s oldest rulers, Celestia and Luna, this was their castle. And they had something they used to battle evil with before it was left here.” the mare said, “Well, then they are morons for just leaving it behind that or their children, whoever is in charge now should have had that weapon with them at all times.” I shake my head and sigh then look at my phone looking up the files I got from Rick and lapis. “Look I don't get why you had to break into our home, but we live here now and if you would have just come to use and talked to us we may have just let you look around.'' I find the file on the castle and read it then raise an eyebrow. “Elements of harmony?” I mutter to myself. “How did you know?” the mare asked, raising an eyebrow in confusion. “A friend of mine gave me files on anything impotent about this land.” I say while still distracted by reading. “Huh, says here that the elements will be found and used by a group of six young mares to safe the world from someone named nightmare moon...that is a stupid name.”  “Well stupid or not, she is going to return soon, which why I need those Elements now!” the mare said, standing up. I read the file more than raised an eyebrow and looked at her. “What's your name?” “What? Why do I need to tell you my name?” she asked, “Well according to the notes I have none of the notes describe a mare like you. I'm also assuming you're a mare.” I said as I looked up from my phone. “Of course I’m a mare, only an idiot would think otherwise. Who does the mare have to be?” the mare asked, “Mares, plural, there are six.” I look back at the phone. “Two pegasi, two earth ponies, and two unicorns.”  I look up. “And you don't look like any of them unless you dye your hair gray and it's really a rainbow." I add with a smirk. The mare stared at the floor then said. “Daring Do, that’s my name.” “Daring Do, let's see.” I look through the files and read them out loud. “An adventurous archaeologist that discovers powerful ancient artifacts and recovers them to keep them from being stolen by those who would either sell them or use them for nefarious means. She usually chooses to work alone but there are small cases in which she will work with others if it is her only option. recommendation unless confronted leave her alone.” “How did you?” she started to ask, “As I said, a friend gave us files on just about anything and everything important on this wor...country.”  I correct myself to make it sound like we are just new to this country, not the planet. Daring stared at me suspiciously, then said, “Alright, so who are these mares anyway?” she asked, “They must be important if they are to use the Elements. “Well, let's see, ok there is an apple farmer, a baker, an animal caretaker, a weather manager, a dressmaker, and a magic student.” I read off the list then see a warning just before the names. “Oh, it says here that they must meet on their own small interactions with them is safe. Trying to guide them to become the elements too early will result in disaster.” Daring stared, then said, “The fate of the world rests in the hands of them?” “Apparently it also says that they have to meet naturally trying to force it could make it where the elements won't work as it's….oh, I can't believe this, it's powered by friendship.” I say as my temper gets the better of me but Garnet puts a hand on my shoulder and I calm down.  “And what’s wrong with friendship?” Daring asked,  “Nothing is wrong with it.” I rub my face and sigh. “It's just that I come from a place that friendship would not be enough to save the world, them on the other hand.” I smirk playfully at Amethyst and Garnet. Amethyst puts her hands behind her head and laughs. “Yeah, Steven is always trying to talk out the problem.” “Indeed, he always sees the good in everyone.” Garnet said, “Anyway, this says that they need to find them together or the magic may not work, but if you want to risk this work. Their names are Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Twilight sparkle.” I read off the list of names. “Twilight Sparkle? Velvet's daughter is one of the mares to save the world?” Daring asks, wide-eyed, “Did not see that coming.” I turn the phone to her. “It's all right here, but if you want you could check out the town nearby, five of the six live there.”  “I think I’ll just let them come here instead as you said, could mess things up if I tried anything.” Daring said, sitting down, wincing in pain. “I would suggest you get to that town anyway just to find a hospital...ponies have those right?” I asked scratching my chin. “Duh.” she said, “But it might be a bit dangerous heading there, think one of you could help me out?” I cross my arm and sigh. “I guess it is the right thing to do seeing as it was me who broke your bone.” I look at Garnet. “You're in charge while I'm gone. If you need to call me, ask Ship he should be able to become a phone or work like one.” Garnet gave a nod, “Be careful out there.” she said to me. I nod back then look at amethyst and smirk. “Try not to burn down the castle ok?” Then I look at Daring do and say. “I assume you can still walk?” “Yeah, my wing’s the only thing that’s broken.” Daring said, “Good, let's go then, the sooner we get to that town the sooner you get help.” I blink as I think of something and check my phone and sigh. ’of course they are racist’ “Do you have something to hide what I look like?” I ask Daring Do. “Well, not really.” Daring said, “Though I did bring a bag with me but I left it at the entrance. There might be something in there.” “Fine, we will check it on our way out.” I start walking to the entrance calling back. “Try to keep up.” Daring gave a scoff as she followed me. “I can keep up just fine.” I lead her out to the entrance and say. “Find your bag, but be careful Amethyst pissed off a pack of wood dogs yesterday.”  “Timberwolves. They're called Timberwolves.” Daring said, walking to one of the piles of rubble and moved them to reveal her bag. Going through it, she pulled out a cloak. “Will this do?” I nod and put it on and cover myself. “The files say ponies are very xenophobic, I’d rather not deal with that today, and unlike my friends, I can’t shapeshift.” “They can shapeshift?” she asked me, then she walked behind a tree and some bushes saying. “No peeking.” I rub the back of my neck then say. “Yeah I mean they are color locked but they can turn into different shapes and even look like each other if they wanted to though Shapeshifting puts pressure on them I suppose.” After I finish I see Daring come out wearing some kind of long cloak around her covering up most of her body and huge old lady glasses and finally a hat that covers her mane. “Geez, she looks like an old lady now.” I muttered mostly to myself. “Ha ha, smart guy. It's a disguise now let’s get going.” Daring said to me as she turned to the brand new bridge Rick must have made. “I’m guessing this new bridge was you or your friends doing?” I look it over and chuckle a bit. “This is definitely my friend's handy work.” I then look at my phone and frown as it doesn't have a map of the local area. “Damn no map.” “Of course there isn’t, the Everfree is too dangerous for ponies, so we don’t explore it.” Daring said. I rub my forehead. “Damn, do you know the way?” I looked at her. She nodded her head. “Yeah, I’m not an adventurer if I don’t know my way around places.” she said, walking over the bridge. “Try to keep up.” I walk up beside her and make a bubble shield around us then slowly add spikes in two rows that make tracks and say. “This way we are safe and don't have to worry.'' Then we start walking inside the shield and the spikes giving the shield traction to move forward.  I felt Daring staring at me as if studying me. I turn to face her and say. “If you have questions then ask, I won't promise to answer them all because there are some secrets I want to keep as I don't know you but there are some things I don't care if you know.” “Just what are you guys? You literally go inside gems, able to summon weapons from nowhere, and this!” she said, pointing at the bubble shield. “Not even the most experienced unicorns could do stuff like this.” “That is both a simple and complicated answer. The simple answer is they are Crystal gems, a sentient gemstone that can create hard light bodies that are temporary as any damage done to the body can be undone once they retreat into the gym itself and the gym is their true physical body.” we roll over a rock and hear a hiss and see something run into the brush. I then continue. “The complicated answer is when it comes to me, I am a half breed in a way, my mother was a gemstone while my father was a being known as a human in organic some even though I have an organic human body I still possess a gemstone and have most of a gemstones powers though each gemstone has their own unique abilities.” we bump into a tree and get annoyed but move the spikes and we move around it. “I see, so, why were you guys in the old castle anyway?” she asked, seeing a few animals look at us from a distance. ’I better give her a half-truth.’ I rub my neck and sigh. “Short answer shelter, the long answer is we were teleported from our home, and woke up in a clearing nearby, that's when I found my friend.” the trees start to get thinner apart. “We’re getting close to town, so maybe drop this before somepony sees us.” Daring said,  “Yeah, I think you're right I’ll…” There is some rustling from a bush next to us and out of it comes some kind of lizard with the head of a chicken dragging a chicken statue. “The hell is that?” “Cockatrice! Don’t look it in the eye! It’ll turn you to stone!” Daring said, looking away, just as the cockatrice looked at me in the eye. I blink and look at it, not believing her, and check myself and say while tapping her shoulder. “I think this one liter doesn't care or is broken, I'm fine.”   Daring went wide-eyed, then looked at the cockatrice, staring at it, seeing she wasn’t turned to stone she looked at me, then at the shield. “I think it’s your shield or something.” “Possible, I AM supposed to have more than one kind of healing power, maybe that makes my shields filter out dangerous light? Meh whatever take let's just run over this thing and get to town.” I tell her as I take a step in the shield towards the cockatrice making the bubble shield move toward it as well. The cockatrice seeing its stare was doing nothing, plus the fact that a spiked ball of death was moving towards it, ran into the bushes, dragging the statue of the chicken with it. “Huh smarter than it looks.” Then I pop the bubble around us and start walking to the town putting the hood up over my head. “You shouldn’t have tried to kill it, it was just doing what it was born to do.” Daring said to me, walking next to me. I shrug and say. “It is just an animal, plus if what you said was true it was a threat to us, if it didn't leave I couldn't drop the shield without us turning to stone.” I look around the town as we exit the forest and see just street lights on and they seem to be flame ones. “Even if it is an animal, what you did was wrong.” Daring said, I roll my eyes. “So you would rather be stuck inside that bubble? Look I'm not some messed up kid that goes around killing animals, it was a threat, and either it would run away or get ran over.” I tell her as I spot a tall white building with a red cross on it. “I assume your hospitals have a red cross on them?” “Yeah, well not all of them.” Daring said, walking to the building. “Good to know there are some things we have in common.” I say as I follow her I look around and then check my phone and frown. “Damn my clock is wrong, do you know the time?” I ask Daring. She reaches into a pocket and pulls out a phone similar to mine but instead of an apple logo on the back it has a sun. “it is around two in the morning.”  I blink surprised it took so long for me to design the inside of my room but fix the clock on my phone. “Thanks.”  “No problem.” Daring replied,  Not too long after we entered the town we got to the hospital. “Should I wait outside?” “You can if you want.” Daring said. Suddenly a cool breeze blows and I shake my head. “Nope, I'm going inside.” Then the two of us go inside and I try not to get anyone's attention as Daring walks up to the front counter. “Hey, my wing is broken.” Daring said to the mare at the front counter. The mare behind the counter jumps up and calls for a few nurses and they come to tend to Daring while I sit down in the waiting area.  One of the nurses comes up to me and smiles sweetly. “Don't worry sweety your mom will be better soon.”  I wave my hand. “Oh no we aren't related I just found her and helped her to the hospital.” she flinches when she sees my arm but nods and walks back behind the counter and I sigh and wait. What felt like hours which was only half an hour, Daring came back. I look up and stand. “Ah good your back, everything taken care of?” “Yeah, though my wing may be sore for a while.” she said, walking to the front door.  I nod and follow her out the front door but then I stop when I notice a basket of treats with two cards in it. “Uh...is this normal?” I ask, pointing to it. “No. It isn’t.” Daring replied, looking around, wondering who could have left the basket. I also look around just barely catching sight of a pink fluffy tail going around a corner. I shrug and kneel down and pick up the cards and blink as one has a hand-drawn picture of a hat while the other has a cloak. “I think this one is yours.” I give Daring one and open it. Inside is a message saying welcome to ponyville and an apology for no party yet. “Huh...strange, say do you want any of that stuff?” I ask Daring as my stomach growls. Daring shrugged. “Sure.” I pick up the basket and hold it between us as I pull out a muffin and smile as I take a bite out of it. “Mmmm damn this is a good muffin.” I was surprised and finished eating it in a few minutes.  “I agree.” Daring said, eating a muffin. After I finish my muffin I wipe my mouth on my arm and say. “Well, I'm gonna head back to my home, if you have to stop by please just ask rather than trying to break in again.” “Sure, see you later. Oh and um, sorry for what happened earlier, with me hurting your friend.” Daring said, I sigh and nod. “And I'm sorry for breaking your wing, I have a temper problem.” I wave at her and take the rest of the food and head back to the castle using my bubble shield.  Along the way, I saw many creatures, most of them tried to attack my bubble shield but I scared them away by summoning spikes on my shield, as I continued walking, I felt like something was watching me. I look around slowly thinking it is a predator of some kind, but upon not seeing or hearing anything I continue along my way till my bubble shield falls partway into a pit trap. Luckily my shield is wide enough that I don't fall into it. “Oh great now I'm stuck.” I look around thinking this is part of some kind of ambush so I prepare myself while still seeming trapped as I run inside the shield just making it spin.  ‘A pun I would make, but I would not for your sake.” I heard a voice say as I turn and see someone in a cloak, and from the sound of the voice, they were female. I turn fully to face them. “Did you set this trap? Who are you?” I ask as I make the bubble grow slowly, slow enough she won't notice. “The trap is indeed of my own making, but if it was for you, you are mistaken.” she said. I cross my arms and sigh as I nod a bit and my shield grows big enough to pop out of the hole. “Fair enough, my name is Jake, who are you?” “My name is Zecora.” she replied, pulling down the hood to show the hooded woman's face, from what I can see, she was a zebra with gold rings on her ear and around her neck and her mane was styled into a mohawk. I nod a bit and walk closer so I'm not over the hole anymore. “I didn't think anyone lived in this forest besides me and my fa...friends.” “Well, I am a resident of the Everfree, here to collect any ingredients that I see.” Zecora said,  “Ah some kind of herbalist or something, sounds useful.” I say then the clouds move, giving us more moonlight and I see how little she is wearing and blush looking off to the side. “Well I should be going if you want to find me, I'm living in that old castle.”  Zecora nodded as she began to walk away. “I will see you soon then. Be careful on your way home my friend.” I nod and look around and find my tracks and reform my bubble shield and continue the way back to the castle. After about half an hour I find the new bridge and pop the bubble before walking into the castle. “Amethyst, Pearl, Garnet, Ship I’m back!”  “Ship ship! Ship ship!” Ship cried out, bouncing to me, and jumped in my arms, clearly happy to see me. I laugh and pet Ship’s head. “Hey there, are the others inside the temple?”  Ship nodded his head. “Ship ship.” he said, then suddenly, my phone gave a beep as I pulled it out and saw a message from Ship. Pressing play, an image of Garnet and Amethyst appeared. ”Alright Ship, me and Amethyst are going to explore more of this castle, when Jake gets back, help him find us.” I heard the Ship in the message give a chirp in reply. Garnet nodded and she and Amethyst proceeded to go down a hallway. After that the message ended, I looked to Ship as he hopped over to a hallway, giving a few chirps to me. I smile and chuckle softly. “Alright lead the way, little guy.” I followed him down the hallway. “I hope garnet hasn't split up.” After many twists and turns, we eventually found ourselves in an area that seemed to be less damaged than the rest of the castle, then after a few more steps, I see Ship go into another room.  I follow Ship and peek into the new room. “Hey, I'm back.” Inside was a panicking Amethyst and Ruby and Sapphire, both looked a bit fearful as they stared at the ground. I walk into the room and raise an eyebrow. “What happened here? And Amethyst please calm down.” “I-I, we tried to see a bit of the future but it was too much for Garnet, and well, we unfused.” Ruby said, I nod and scratch my chin. “Well, I'll admit I don't know exactly how her future sight works but my theory is that because this is a new world with unknown variables Garnett can't predict the future at all just focusing on the present is enough that the two of you can stay fused but the moment she tries to look into the future,” I snap my fingers. “you split up.” “Yeah, we kinda figured that the moment we unfused.” Ruby said, rubbing the back of her head while giving a sheepish smile. I walk into the room and pat Ruby’s head. “Just try to keep that in mind while you're Granet, but speaking of future sight.” I look over to Sapphire. “How far are you able to look into the future by yourself Sapphire?” “N-not far.” she replied, “We lasted only a minute as Garnet when we looked into the future, but I don’t want to risk it.” I nod and rub my chin. “I understand, but at least now you know your limitations. Perhaps it would help if either of you or Garnet, I don't really know how it works between sharing knowledge, but one of you studies some history of this world if we find a library.” “Well, we did find one but we can tell it was a bit old.” Ruby said, “Maybe we can try to go into town or something, we can easily shapeshift to find a library.” Sapphire said, Amethyst gave a grin. “Yeah, I can totally shapeshift like a pro! Probably because I do it so many times!” Amethyst said, shapeshifting into an exact copy of Daring. I scratch my chin “Well I suppose you could but if I remember correctly you can only hold a certain shape for a limited time before it starts hurting you.”  “Eh true, but I’m like a pro at it, so I’m obviously one of the best choices to go into town!” Amethyst said confidently. I rub the bridge of my nose. “Amethyst, these people or ponies I guess, are very panicky from what I've read, if you suddenly snap back to your normal shape that will most likely freak them out. If you go I want you to wait till morning and I'll go with you.”  Amethyst let out a sigh before nodding. “Alright, but won’t someone get curious about the cloak?” she asked me, shapeshifting back. I nod admitting to that point. “That is true and if that happens I will calmly explain that I'm just from very far away, no offense Amethyst but a diplomat you are not.” I flinch a bit and look at Sapphire. “Sorry if I brought up bad memories.” “Eh, that’s fair.” Amethyst said, shrugging her shoulders. “And it’s fine, we kinda got over it.” Ruby said, rubbing the back of her head. I smiled relieved I didn't upset them. “So now that that is settled what else did you find while exploring?” “Well not much, most of this stuff was too old to read, the rest was probably brought with whoever lived here when they moved out.” Ruby said, “But we did find some old books with some weird writing and symbols.” “Were you able to find anything that is in english or that any of you can read?” I ask. “Well, the writing is pretty much similar to how the humans used to write in the past, so it’s mostly readable if you can find something that won’t tear the moment you open it.” Amethyst said,  I nod and ask. “When you say how humans used to write, do you mean old english or something like hieroglyphs?” “Old english.” Sapphire replied, handing me a book. I take it and smile at her before looking at it and only understanding a small part of it. “Huh this is a spellbook but I don't understand it, well I get a few words here and there but the whole magic thing is over my head.”  I then blink and look at the gems. “Say, back when the tv show started in season one Steven was always saying you gems are magical is that true or was that just how the young steven saw things?” “Well, we are but we have a limited understanding of magic.” Ruby said, I nod a bit and smile. “Well how knows maybe here we can tap into that magical side of gems, I believe I read in Rick's notes this world is filled with magic.”  “Ship!” Ship barks and hops around.  I chuckle and pet him. “Don’t worry I'm sure we will find some kind of tech for you to link with.”  “Ship shiiiiip!” Ship said sadly. I pet Ship gently then yawn a bit and rub my eyes. “Damn, I still haven't slept yet, oh when we get the chance I want you to teach me how to make gem cloths.” I say as I look down at a rip in my shirt. “Sure thing.” Amethyst said, I smile a bit and stretch. “Sapphire please make sure that Ruby and Amethyst don't cause any trouble, Ship help her please. I’m going to go to bed um. You guys can access my room in the temple without having to have me open the door right?” “Yes.” Sapphire said, “Alright, if anyone else shows up either come and get me or if possible have Ship call my cell phone. Goodnight you guys.” I wave and start heading back to where the temple door is. “Night Jake.” Ruby and Sapphire said, Amethyst just gave a wave. “See ya in the morning.” she said to me. After getting to the temple door my gem glows along with the door slot and it opens to my room and I walk in smiling at the pictures of my family as I head to the bedroom and lay down. ’Well damn I guess Rick was right I am in another world...at least I'm not alone and have the gems with me. Just hope they don't expect me to be like steven.’  I think to myself before I yawn and start falling asleep. I open my eyes and am surprised when I see nothing but darkness. I look around and see nothing but myself. “Where the hell am I?”  I then heard something, it was faint but I heard it, going in the direction where I heard the sound, hoping it was the right way. As I followed the sound, it started to become more clearer, it sounded like crying. I continue following the sound of crying till I see a light, after a while I see a pony under a spotlight and I run to get closer. She is dark blue, with a light blue mane. I see a horn so I assume she is a unicorn and when I get close enough I see the spotlight makes the image of the moon under her, I also noticed that she is chained to the ground and I frown.  I step into the light and kneel. “Hey, do you need help?” The mare gasped as she looked to me, “W-who are y-you? How d-did you get here?” she asked me, I scratch the back of my head. “I honestly don't know how I got here. The last thing I remember is going to bed.” “T-thou are in the Dream World.” the mare said, “A place where We used to rule.” My eyes widen then I rub my chin and close my eyes. “Huh, I must have stumbled into my dream walking powers.” I shake my head and say. “Who are you? Why are you chained up?” “O-our name is Luna, and We are a prisoner.” she replied, looking down sadly. I frown and grab a chain. “Well this is just cruel, I'm going to help you.” I start pulling on the chain.  “It is pointless, We have tried but We cannot break the chains.” Luna said, Just after Luna finishes the chain I'm pulling on starts to stretch and then it snaps and I fall backward. “ow.” I watched as the chain repaired itself, chaining Luna again. “See?” I glare at the chains while I think. “Hmmm.”  Suddenly I remember how my powers are supposed to work and I look at Luna.  “When did these chains first appear?” While I wait for her response I start pulling on the chains again. “T-they appeared when We….I..” she had a sad look as tears filled her eyes. “I want to help, but you need to be open with me.” I tell her and I pull harder and this time when the chain snaps I keep my footing and hold the chain keeping it from fixing itself. I saw Luna watch me then sighed, “We became a monster, that is when the chains appeared. We became a prisoner within our own mind.” she said, I struggle as the chains start pulling themselves together. “There has to be more to it Luna, I don't think choosing to be a monster would trap you in your own mind.” I grunt as the chains start pulling even harder but I lift them higher.  Luna sighs and looks away from me. “I grew jealous of my sister, all of our subjects loved her days but slept through our hard work on the night skies...I asked my sister if we could make the night longer so that they may see and enjoy my night but she refused….”  She looks up at me with tears in her eyes as the chains grow heavier. “We would fight for weeks until I heard a voice that told me I could be loved and how to do it.” she looks down in shame.” and I became a nightmare moon and attacked my sister.”  I shake my head and grunt still trying to keep the chains from linking back together. “Luna, I can understand how you felt but from what you just told me it seems like an outside force manipulated you and is controlling your body just because it has control now does not mean that you cannot be free and makeup with your sister.” The chains seem to get lighter at my words and she looks up. “T-truly? I.. I could see my sister again?” “Yes but you have to be strong and fight whatever is messing with you. I'm sure your sister still loves you, now are you going to let this thing take your life?” I do my best to encourage her and as I do the chains get smaller and lighter. “The chains, t-they’re disappearing.” Luna said, pure joy in her voice. I nod and smirk. “Remember this is your mind and your body, that outside influence may have some control now but you are the primary person in control. These chains were created out of your negative emotions, believing in yourself and believing that you will see your sister again the chains have no power over you.” “How sickenly sweet.” I heard a voice say from all around me and Luna. I look around and clench my fists. My gem starts glowing covering me in a pink aura. “Luna is that the voice you heard before?” “Y-yes.” Luna said fearfully, “It is.” “You should follow her example, and fear me.” the voice said, I frown and look around and then smirk. “And why should I fear a voice? The worst you can do is talk me to death, now either shut up or leave Luna forever or you'll have to deal with me.” I turn to Luna and smirk. “Remember Luna, this is your mind, not her’s.” “Keep telling her that, I’m sure it will make a difference.” the voice said again, I chuckle and point to the chains. “There is proof that what I'm saying is true, as I encourage you to chains shrink and get weak but as she scares you the chains grow thick and heavy.” Luna thought about what I said then stood up, “He’s right, I’m not scared of you monster.” I smile at Luna but then the voice starts laughing, almost cackling, then even more chains shoot out of the darkness and wrap around Luna but she does not kneel. Then out of the darkness walks a tall mare with black fur and silver armor covering her body, deep blue slitted eyes, and a fang-filled smile. “Do you really think that fear is my only tool, little Luna?” She walks up to me and glares at me as if I'm trash in her eyes then focuses on Luna. “shall I remind you of the fact you attacked your sister? Tried to take control of the sky? Oh and let’s not forget you did almost kill your sister.” I turn to look and my eyes widen as the chains get thicker and I see Luna look down in shame as the weight starts to get to her. “Luna, you have more control here than her, don't let her fill your head with her actions!” I turn and throw a punch at this dark mare but I pass right through her.  “Fool, you cannot harm me here, now, I grow tired of you.” the mare said,  her horn glowing, “Now begone!” A powerful wind starts blowing me as a door appears behind me. “Luna; don't give up!” is all I can say before I'm forced through the door. I shoot up with a gasp in a cold sweat and pant softly. “Th-that was crazy...I hope I helped.” > Chapter 3 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- I was walking down the hallway towards the entrance to the front gates, Ship bouncing by my side. ’Man what a freaky dream hopefully today won't be too eventful.’  “Yo dude!” I look and see Amethyst waving at me. I hurry up and join her. “Whats up Amethyst?” I asked then I noticed she ate all the food from the basket and I gave her a flat look. “What? I was hungry.” she replied, “Anyway, you ready to go?” I sigh and rub my face. “Amethyst I get you're different from the others because of many reasons one being you like to eat but I know gems don't NEED to eat while I do, and in case you didn't realize we are in the middle of a forest with very few supplies on a strange planet I have no idea what safe to eat and what's not safe to eat what was in that basket was pretty much all the food I had.” Amethyst had a guilty look on her face, “Sorry man, I just can’t help it, how about this, when we go into town to go to that library, I’ll help you find like a book on berries or something so you can find food here.” I nod and sigh. “Thanks that would help a lot. Let's get going.”  I got out the cloak and put it on then started walking outside. “Ship ship!” I heard Ship, as he bounced in front of me, blocking my path. I look down and smirk. “You want to come too huh?” Ship nodded but I heard a beep coming from my phone, pulling it out, I saw a video message labeled, Tech Help 1. Raising an eyebrow I open the video and watch it. I saw a lot of advanced tech that I saw before from Ricks's lab, “Hey Ship.” The Ship in the message looked at Rick, who held up two items, one was a bracelet with a blue gem, the other looked like an orb with red circuit-like lines. “These things will help Jake in his Equestria, so be sure to let him know.” Ship barked in reply, “Good boy. Now the bracelet is a cloaking device able to change one’s appearance into anything else, even able to create a new disguise.” he said as the Ship in the message absorbed the bracelet, “And this is a dimensional communicator, he’ll be able to call me when he needs help and can’t find me or Lapis’s Token. And Jake, good luck in your Equestria ok buddy? And don’t be afraid to make some friends.” I smile and chuckle. “That Rick must think of everything, ok let's make this easy, when we get near the town you will shapeshift into a pony similar to Daring and I'll have Ship make me look like a pony too.” I say to Amethyst.  “You got it, dude.” Amethyst said, giving a thumbs-up, “Now let’s get to that town!” I laugh a bit at how excited she is and then I pet ship and hurry up to catch up with amethyst. “Hey, you need to wait for me!” “Sorry but not my fault you're a little slow.” she said, giving me a smirk. I roll my eyes and lightly shove her. “This coming from the person that takes forever to clean their room.”  “Hey my room is clean, I even have a system of where things are supposed to be.” Amethyst said, I chuckle and say. “There's a difference between organized chaos and what your room was, and the only reason your room is clean right now is that, well as far as I know you got a brand new room in a new temple so of course all your stuff is back at the old temple.” “Eh whatever.” Amethyst shrugged, “I’ll just get some new stuff.” I shake my head with a smile. “As long as you don't steal it I'm fine with it.” as we talk I follow my tracks I left the ground last night. “Man, this forest is really freaky, I bet the town is just the same.” Amethyst said, jokingly. “Amethyst be nice, it isn't that bad plus we don't want to accidentally make the locals mad.” I tell her and I start seeing the town between the trees. “Time to fit in, how long can you hold a shape?” “Hmmmmmm, well I can hold it for a while, probably between half an hour to an hour.” she replied,  I nod and look to Ship. “Ok if you two are ready let's do this.”  “Ship ship!” Ship said, jumping and morphing around my wrist, till he resembled the cloaking device from the message, a bright light blinded me a little as Amethyst shapeshifted into a copy of Daring, except had her original clothes instead of Darings.  I pressed the gem on Ship, which was bright green instead of blue, and a moment later, I was tan Earth Pony with black hair with pink highlights, “Whoa, that is awesome!” Amethyst said,  I look myself over and nod. “Yeah, and it seems with Ship’s help I can shapeshift kinda, and I'm not color locked like you guys.” “Lucky. Anyway, let’s get to that library.” Amethyst said, then shuddered, “Never thought I’d say that.” I smirk and walk past her. “Oh come on, you could find something cool in fact, I was an amateur writer back on earth."  I tell her as we leave the forest.  “You were a writer? But you’re so awesome and badass!” Amethyst said, shocked. I chuckle and smile. “Amethyst let me ask you this, did you enjoy action movies?”  “Uh yeah, what kind of question is that?” Amethyst asked as we walked into town. “Well it may surprise you but it takes people who write stories for a living to make those movies happen. They have to write down every detail to get the movie just right, from the big fight scenes down to what each character is wearing.” I explain and look around seeing ponies up and about making a market of some kind.  “Just because something takes patience to do doesn't mean it's a bad thing. In fact, I made my own um...fan fiction about you guys.” I blush lightly. “What kind of fanfiction dude?” Amethyst asked me, I sigh and rub the back of my head. “I made up a new Diamond and her whole court ….Mostly... And well one of her gems is sent to earth to um…. deal with you guys but she changes and joins you all teaching you all new techniques.” I said to her, kind of embarrassed. “Sounds kinda awesome, who was the new Diamond and gem?” Amethyst asked me, “It was Black diamond and Obsidian, we would have to ask Pearl for clarification if I'm right or not but in my story obsidian's were pretty much assassin's black ops that sort of job.” I tell her then I spot a huge tree in the middle of town and it looks odd so I start walking toward it.  “Cool, I’m sure Pearl will help with any questions you…..is that a building?” Amethyst asked, just as we walked up to the tree, seeing how it mostly resembled a house of sorts. I look at it, noticing the living parts of it, then the artificial elements to it like windows and a door, then I see the sign and read it out loud. “Golden Oaks Library,  huh I guess we found the library. Let’s get inside and hope it's empty.”  “Yeah, I’m tired of all the looks these guys are giving us.” Amethyst said, walking in. We head inside and to my surprise inside is Daring do, holding a book and she looks up at us in surprise as well. “What in Celestia's name?!” “Hey aren’t you that mare who broke into our home?” Amethyst asked her. “Your home? What are you talking about and why do you look like me?” she demands. I step forward after closing the door. “Daring I’m Jake from last night, this is Amethyst. We are in disguise so we don't scare the people of the town.” “Oh.” Daring said, “Well I’ll have to believe you because you’re the only one I’ve shown my alter ego to.” I lift my arm and speak to Ship. “Ok, ship you can rest for a bit while we look for the books.” Then I look at Daring. “What alter ego? What are you a superhero?” “Nah, that disguise from last night remember? You see I not only go on adventures, but I also write my adventures for the world to read about.” Daring said, I nod and smile. “Hey, do you do your own editing? Or do you have a company you work through?” I ask,  getting an idea. Just then Ship turns off the disguise and hops off my arm. “I have my own company.” Daring said, watching as SHip bounced around, I smirk and ask. “Think after this Nightmare moon business you could help me get in contact with them? Maybe even a comic book company too. I have lots of stories that I could sell and get me and my friend's bits.”  I look at Amethyst, seeing her looking bored.  “I’ll see what I can do kid.” Daring replied, “Thanks, Daring, Amethyst get the books we came for if you're bored.” I say then start looking through the books.  “Sure thing.” Amethyst said, looking through each book and grabbing the ones we may need. “Hey, what do you think you're doing?”  Daring asks, looking upset. “We need some info is all, kinda hard to find food in the forest.” I said to Daring, She sighs and scratches her head. “I guess that makes sense, just be careful with these books, some of them are rare.” I nod and give her a thumbs up. “Trust me once they get to Pearl they will be in safe hands.”  “Hey, are you saying I can't take care of a few books?” Amethyst says as one of the stacks of books she made falls over and I just look at her with a raised eyebrow. “No offense but no. No, you can’t” I said to her, Amethyst groans in annoyance and picks them back up. “Fine fine, I'm not that good with books whatever.” I look back to Daring. “So what are you doing here?” “Just looking up some information on Nightmare Moon, you know, just in case.” Daring said, closing a book, “But not a whole lot of knowledge on her.” “What have you been able to get?” I ask as I sit down thinking back to that dream feeling it was more than a dream. “Well not much, just how she came to be.” Daring let out a tired sigh, “I’ve been in here all day and almost didn’t find anything, it’s like ponies forgot about her, treated her like some myth.” I rub my chin and decide to ask. “Does the name Luna have any importance?” “Yeah, it was said that she was Princess Celestia’s sister before she became Nightmare Moon, how did you know about her?” Daring asked me, I nod and rub my face. “This may sound crazy but I met her last night when I went to sleep, one of my abilities lets me dream walk into other people's dreams and I guess I was drawn to hers.”  “That’s……...well I would say crazy but I’ve seen plenty of crazy things, you and your friends are one of them.” Daring said, “So what happened?” “She is trapped in her own mind, there was another person there too at first just a voice I think it was this Nightmare Moon you are trying to lookup. Anyway, Luna was chained down by negative emotions, I did what I could to help and even broke a few chains but just as Luna was standing up, Nightmare showed up and made things worse by telling Luna all the bad things ‘she’ did.” I tell her, adding air quotes. Daring nodded her head, “I see. Nightmare Moons sounds more like a parasite than anything, which is all the more reason to prepare for her return.” I nod as I'm starting to agree with her. “Yeah, maybe try looking at the books in the old castle, but fair warning some are so old they are falling apart just from touching them.”  “I’ll be sure to remember that.” Daring said, looking through more books until she pulled one out. “Elements of Harmony? I should probably look more into them as well.” I look over and see Amethyst looking between a book and Daring. “Hey, do we have all the books we need?” “Yeah, we got what we needed, strange how there was nobody here.” Amethyst said, I nod and pet Ship. “Well if Daring is ready I think we should go before someone does come in and sees us.” “Alright let’s go then.” Daring said, putting the book in her bag, “Let’s just hurry please.” I nod and say to Ship and Amethyst. “Ok, you two let's get ready to go.” Ship jumps onto my arm and turns back into the bracelet and I turn back into a pony.  “I’m not gonna get used to that.” Daring said, just as Amethyst shape-shifted again, “Or that.” I nod watching Amethyst. “Yeah, I can understand what you mean. Well let's get going, Amethyst do you need any help carrying all those books?” “Nah I got 'em.” she replied, carrying the books with ease. Nodding I turned to Daring. “Are you coming with us?” Daring shrugged her shoulders, “Sure why not. I got some questions to ask anyways.” “Just remember what I said last night.” I tell her as I start walking to the door. “Yeah, that I can ask any question but you won’t answer most of them cause you don’t trust me.” Daring said, “LEt’s just get this over with.” We all leave the library with Amethyst carrying most of the books and I lead us towards the forest when an orange pony mare wearing jeans, a plaid shirt, and a cowboy hat steps in front of me. “Hold it right there youngin, where do ya think you're going?” “What’s it you?” Amethyst said to the mare. “Now look here missy, y’all are headed for the Everfree forest, I'm just looking out for your colt here.” the mare said to Amethyst. “That place is filled with monsters and it just ain't natural.” “She isn't my mom, she is my…” I look at amethyst for a second then back to the mare. “Older sister.” “Yeah, and I can take care of some silly monsters. After all, it is a big sister's job to make sure their little bro is alright.” Amethyst said, patting my head,  The strange mare raises an eyebrow at me and looks between me and Amethyst for a minute before she moves out of the way. “Just be careful y’all like I said it's not safe in that there forest.” “Thank you for the concern but as my sister said we can handle it in there.” I say then start walking again. “Hey, do you think she was one of those mares that can use the Elements?” Daring asked me, her voice quiet, I look over at her and in a normal voice, I say. “Possible, I haven't fully read the files yet but I did see that one of them wears a hat and besides you, she is the only pony in town I see wearing a hat.”  “I’ll be sure to keep that in mind.” Daring let out a sigh, “This whole Nightmare Moon thing is really stressing me out.” “Well, so long as things work out then it's all good.” I say as we get to the edge of the forest. “So ladies, travel by foot or by bubble?” “By foot.” Amethyst said, “If anything that wants to pick a fight with us I can easily take care of them.” Daring looks between Amethyst and me before sighing. “I guess by foot then.” I nod and keep walking and look at Daring. “Now that we're far enough away what are your questions?” “Well for starters, where did you guys come from? Did you come from some far away land that ponies haven’t discovered yet?” Daring asked, I scratch my chin. “Yeah, our last home was called Beach city. It is very far away, in fact, we don't even recognize any of the stars in the night sky.” I tell her half-truths. “I see, odd name, but still interesting, so you guys come here for something?” Daring asked me, ducking under a low-hanging branch, “Or are you just visiting?” I shake my head and sigh. “An unknown person teleported us here, we are completely lost. If I hadn't found my friend Rick’s token we would have just stayed in the castle not even knowing you ponies existed.” “Token? And who’s Rick? Know what, if he’s a friend of yours, I kinda don’t want to know.” Daring said, shaking her head. I smile sheepishly at her. “Sorry if I'm a bit confusing, I still don't understand everything myself.” “It’s fine, at least we agree on one thing, we’re both confused about things we don’t understand.” she replied, watching as Amethyst just football kicked a cockatrice, sending it flying. “Why don't you tell me about this place some, that orange mare said this place is unnatural, why?” I ask, then blink and ask. “It isn't rude to describe a pony by their coat color is it?” “Well of course it’s unnatural, pegasus make the weather while this place just does it on its own, and the animals and plants take care of themselves. It’s just pure chaos.” Daring said, “Really? From what you told us, ponies are control freaks, back home all those things you said about this place happens there as well.” Amethyst said, I nod and point to Amethyst. “I agree, and there is an order in the chaos if you look hard enough, everything has its cycles, the animals are born, they grow up, have children and pass off becoming food for the plants, and the plants feed the next generation of animals. It's all a delicate balance between order and chaos, harmony if you will.” “That…..was kinda poetic and beautiful.” Daring said, staring at me, I chuckle a little nervous and look away. “Thanks, my people study the world around us to understand everything we can.” “That’s pretty cool.” Daring said,  “Thanks, so how many different kinds of ponies are there?” I ask. “Well, there are three types, you have the Pegasi, they control the weather, Unicorns who use magic, and then the Earth Ponies, but the princess is a combination of all three tribes, she has the strength of an Earth Pony, flight of a Pegasus, and the magic of the Unicorns.” Daring said, “Huh, sounds neat, gems are...more complex than just a handful of subspecies, each kind of gem is its own species kinda, for example, Amethyst here back in the old days would be part of the soldier class of gems, while I am technically a Diamond.” I told her and explained a little. “And Diamonds are like elite soldiers or something?” Daring asked me, just as we were approaching the bridge to the castle. I rub the back of my neck. “More like...um our leaders.” I say a bit sheepishly. “Wait what?! But you’re just a kid! Were you training to be a future leader or something before you came to Equestria?” Daring asked me, giving me a shocked look. I give Amethyst a look that hints to just go with what I say then turn to daring. “It's more complicated but my mother was...well she was the original Pink diamond, but when she gave birth to me I got her gem.” I lift my shirt enough to show it to Daring. “She no longer exists because of that, and before she had me she had a...big argument with her family, the other diamonds and well she lost all of her power politically speaking, but eventually the diamonds found out about me and things work themselves out for the most part.” “I….see. I’m sorry if I had to bring up some bad memories.” Daring said, putting a hand on my shoulder. I nod and smile at Daring. “It's ok, things have happened but I worked through most of them.” “Hey, Jake what do you think the Diamonds are doing now?” Amethyst asks me. “I honestly don't know, I just hope they keep following st...my example and stopped with their… expansion.” I told her. “Expansion? What does that mean?” daring asked me, raising an eyebrow. I rub the back of my head. “Let's just say before I came along the diamonds kept growing their territory in every direction.” “I see.” Daring replied, just as we walked inside the castle. I look to Amethyst. “Take the books to Ruby and Sapphire please.” Then I look at Daring. “Look I can understand what I've said is kinda scary but we don't plan on doing anything against this country.” “Look, I haven’t known you guys for long, but something tells me to trust you.” Daring said with a sigh,  I smile softly and nod. “Thank you, now let's see if there is anything that can help you in this library.” “Right, care to lead the way?” Daring said,  I nod and lead her to the old library and look around at the old books. I turn to see Pearl come in just as Ship jumps off me. “Hey, how are you feeling?” “Oh, I’m fine thanks to you.” Pearl said, hugging me, then looked nervously at Daring.  I awkwardly pat Pearl's back hugging her then look to see where she is looking. “Daring is there anything you'd like to say?” “I’m...sorry for hurting you last time I was here, I didn’t know who you guys were, so I just panicked.” Daring said, looking down. “Oh um… well thank you for apologizing.” Pearl said. I nod happily that I could be a little like Steven. “Ok Daring is going to look through these books in hopes of finding more information on this Nightmare Moon person. While she is doing that, mind if I ask you a few questions Pearl?”  “Sure.” Pearl replied,  “Well, I’ll see you later then.” Daring said, walking towards a bookshelf. I watch her walk away then look back to Pearl. “First I'd like to apologize if I say anything stupid or offensive, I only know what was shown in the show, so I may ask something strange.” “Um alright. Go ahead and ask anything you want.” Pearl replied, “Well, I know that when you, Amethyst, Garnet, and Steven fused it made obsidian but are there any obsidian gems on their own without fusing, and if so what were their jobs I guess.” I ask. “Well Jake, there are obsidians without fusions, but their jobs are usually elite guards for the Diamonds.” Pearl told me. “Huh that's neat, well are gem weapons made of hard light like their bodys?” I ask. Pear taps her chin. “Well technically yes they are why?” “Well, I had this idea that if they are made of hard light like your bodies then could you change the weapon into a different form?” I explain my thoughts. “Well, we could try.” Pearl said, I nod. “We will have to do some experimentation to see if we can but we should probably wait until after the nightmare moon thing.”  “Alright, is there anything else you want to ask me?” Pearl asked me. I think for a moment and hug Pearl. “No I'm good for now but I am sorry if you were ever treated badly because you are a Pearl.” Pearl hugged me back, “It’s fine Jake.” I smile and then say. “Good, oh I told Amethyst to bring the books to Ruby and Sapphire, could you go make sure nothing bad happens, maybe do some studying yourself?” “Sure, I could use some study time to learn about the culture of this world.” Pearl said, “Oh and Pearl, think later you can teach me how to make holograms of myself?” I ask as she is turning to leave. “Of course Jake.” Pearl said, laughing a little, “Just make sure you don’t have any hologram troubles like Steven did.” I scratch my head. “The only time I remember seeing Steven have trouble with a hologram was when your own hologram poofed you.” “Yes, I know.” Pearl replied,  “Well, thankfully I'm more able to fight back than he was back then. See you later Pearl.” I wave, then go looking for Daring as she went deeper into the library. I eventually found her reading a book, while several other books, as well as a few dust piles, were around her. “Hey, any luck so far?” I ask. She jumped a little, “Fuck kid, don’t do that.” Daring said, “Anyway, not so much.” I chuckle sheepishly for scaring her. “Sorry, and damn find anything interesting at least?” “Just the history of this castle is all, plus a few victories the princesses had before Nightmare Moon, like this one describes them battling against a draconequus named Discord. He literally bent reality to his will.” Daring said, handing me the book. “Really? Wow,  they must have been very powerful.” I say looking at an image of Discord.  “Well, they did move the sun and moon.” Daring said,  I blink and look at Daring. “I'm sorry they what?” I ask, shocked.  “Yeah, didn’t your friend Rick tell you? Celestia moves the sun while Luna moved the moon.” Daring explained. “No, I don't think he did. Then again most of the time he was here we spent talking about something else and training me.” I say then mumble the last part. “Well that’s what the two princesses do, they make sure the sun and moon orbit around our world, but with Luna becoming Nightmare Moon and being banished onto the moon, Celestia had to move both for a thousand years.” Daring said, “Wow, that is impressive.” I say and lean back in the chair I'm sitting on. “Well seeing as you found nothing, how about I let you read the files on my phone but only about the elements and Nightmare.” “Sure, I could use the help.” Daring said, I take my phone out and open it holding it. “Only what we agreed on.” Daring nodded her head and took the phone, “I know, only on Nightmare Moon and the Elements of Harmony.” I watch her for a moment then look around. “Hey, I hope this isn't rude but what is the average level of technology for this country?” “Well we have phones, but they are powered by magic.” Daring said,  I hum and look at Daring. “Magic huh sounds useful, I wonder if I can use magic.”  “Who knows.” Daring said, I rub my chin and think out loud. “I can look into that later, so what do you plan on doing with the information on my phone?” “Maybe if those mares need a little help I was thinking I can offer some aid, hidden aid that is, as not to mess with anything.”Daring said, handing me my phone. I nod and take my phone back. “I was gonna do the same but only within the castle.” “Sounds like a good idea.” Daring said, holding her chin in thought, “Maybe I can offer aid from outside the castle, you know spring any traps Nightmare could have set up.” “Sounds good to me.” I nod and get up. “Hey, while we have time, mind giving me some help, I'm an amateur writer and I have lots of stories for my home that I'd like to share here and it would be a good way for me to get some income. Are there any comic companies that would take my ideas and put them on paper?” “I may know a few.” Daring said, “But first let’s hear these stories of yours.” I smile. “Well, one that would fit for comics is a story of five teenagers given powers to fight evil in colorful suits. Then another story I have is about the secret life of toys.” “Interesting.” Daring said,  I nod and smile. “The first one was a big hit back where I'm from.” “Really? Please explain why.” Daring said,  “Well, its target audience was young boys but eventually that audience grew up and even their kids enjoyed the same show, the story always changed teams every once in a while,” I told her. “Interesting, so what can these guys do exactly that got kids so interested into them?” Daring asked me, “Well, each episode the big bad guy would send or make a monster that attacks the city and they fight it and end up destroying it, but then it would grow huge and the team would have to use a huge robot to fight it again.” I explain then think for a minute and get my phone out and show her a video I saved. “This is what I'm talking about.” Daring watches the video I showed her, after it was done she had a smile on her face, “Well I can say this, your stories might be a huge hit, from this video alone, I can tell you're gonna go far kid.” she said, “Cool, hope so or I won't have money for anything.” I sigh. “We don't have any of your money and I'm the only one of us that needs food.” I explain.  “I understand, but if you want I can give you some bits, you know, keep yourself fed.” Daring said, “I would appreciate that hopefully one of the books we brought will have information on what's edible in this forest.” I say as I take my phone back and put it in my pocket. “Hope so, you got some potential as a writer if you have these for inspiration.” Daring said, holding out a bag to me, I grabbed it and opened it, seeing gold coins inside, “100 bits in there. Should last you long enough.” “Wow thanks, wait are these real gold?” I asked, surprised. “Yep.” Daring said, “Wow, that is cool, I have never seen gold in person.” I say as I take one out and rub it with my thumb. “Really? What do you guys use for currency?” Daring asked me, I look up at her. “Well I don't think gems have a currency but humans use paper bills that represent gold as well as coins made of various metals.”  “Huh, weird but I’ve heard weirder.” Daring replied. I nod and put the coin back into the bag. “Well thank you and maybe after this Luna pony is freed you can help me get in touch with the people I need to talk to about getting my comic off the ground.” “Sure thing.” Daring said, then smiled, “Just as long as I get the first copy that is.” I chuckle and smirk. “Sure, so now that we have that sorted out what do you need to do?” “Nothing much.” Daring said, I look out a window and see the sun is starting to go down. “Well the sun is setting so you should head back to town unless you want to sleep here at the castle?”  “I’ll head back to town, no offense but this place is kinda a mess.” Daring said, getting up. “None taken I agree, I'll see you later then stay safe.” I over my hand. “See ya kid.” Daring said, walking out of the library. I frown slightly as she leaves without shaking my hand but shrug and goes looking for the gems. “Pearl, Amethyst, Ruby, Sapphire, any of you nearby?” “Over here, dude!” I heard Amethyst shout back, I follow the direction her voice came from and saw her, Ruby, and Sapphire reading a few books. I smile and walk into the room. “How are you guys or..should I say, girls? That was always confusing to me.” I say then start to ramble. “We’re doing good, hey, guess what?” Amethyst asked me, “What?” I ask with a chuckle at how excited Amethyst is. “We found a book about edible berries and stuff! I was thinking we can go and find some so you don’t go hungry!” Ruby said, causing Amethyst to nod her head. I smile and laugh in relief. “Thanks, guys, just be careful out there. I'm gonna go to bed, so if you need me I'll be in my bedroom.”  “Alright Jake, goodnight.” Sapphire said, hugging me. I smile and hug back then wave at the others before heading to my room. ’Man they are so accepting of me already I should try to think of them as my new family, but I won't forget my old family.’ “Ship ship!” Ship said, bouncing up to me, followed by Pearl. I smile then look up at Pearl. “Hey Pearl, what's up?” “Oh nothing much, me and Ship were getting to know each other, he is a very fascinating creature, the ability to morph into tech he’s absorbed, why it’s amazing!” Pearl said, I nod and smirk. “Yeah he is cool, and believe it or not but originally he was just a piece of a bigger galvanic mechamorph.” I pet Ship then smile. “He is from a completely different show where a human gets a device that lets him transform into any sentient life forms as long as its information is put into the device. I bet it could even scan Gems.” I add nodding. Pearl looked at me wide-eyed, “Incredible! The fact that such a device lets one do that is beyond what gem tech can do! And you said Ship is just a piece. He can become a giant starship! No piece can do that!” Pearl said,  I chuckle and explain the first part. “Well the Omnitrix, that's what it's called, by the way, is twelfth level technology while earth’s average is one. So that tells you how advanced it is. As for Ship, as I said originally he was, if my memory is right, just the arm of the original galvanic mechamorph that made him.” “Amazing!” Pearl said,  I nod and smile. “Yeah, oh Pearl Daring left to go back to the town and the others are reading. I'm about to head to bed, I know Steven sometimes asks you to hold onto things. Do you know if you have anything of his?” Pearl held her chin in thought, “Hmmmmm, I’ll have to check.” Pearl said, I nod and say. “Alright you can tell me in the morning, but I also want to do some learning tomorrow so please don't let me forget.” I wave as I turn to the temple door. “Good night Pearl, Ship.” “Goodnight Jake.” Pearl said, “Sweet dreams.” “Ship ship!” Ship said, then started to bounce down a hallway, Pearl following him. I smile and enter my room in the temple and look at the pictures as I pass them. Once I get to the bedroom I take my clothes off and jump in bed and sigh as I fall asleep easily. I open my eyes and see darkness around me again but this time I see statues of the gems and even Ship around. As I explore I see statues of ponies further away and as I get closer I swear I saw one wave at me before going still.  I shake my head then I hear an angelic voice coming from high and far away. I look to see a huge statue of a white mare with wings and a horn behind a mountain. When I get closer I hear what she is saying, or I should say singing.   ♪Fate has been cruel and order unkind How can I have sent you away? The blame was my own; the punishment, yours The harmony's silent today But into the stillness I'll bring you a song And I will your company keep Till your tired eyes and my lullabies Have carried you softly to sleep♪ ♪Once did a pony who shone like the sun Look out on her kingdom and sigh She smiled and said, "Surely, there is no pony So lovely and so well beloved as I" So great was her reign, so brilliant her glory That long was the shadow she cast Which fell dark upon the young sister she loved And grew only darker as days and nights passed♪ ♪Lullay moon princess, goodnight sister mine And rest now in moonlight's embrace Bear up my lullaby, winds of the earth Through cloud, and through sky, and through space Carry the peace and the coolness of night And carry my sorrow in kind Luna, you're loved so much more than you know Forgive me for being so blind♪ ♪Soon did that pony take notice that others Did not give her sister her due And neither had she loved her as she deserved She watched as her sister's unhappiness grew But such is the way of the limelight, it sweetly Takes hold of the mind of its host And that foolish pony did nothing to stop The destruction of one who had needed her most♪ ♪Lullay moon princess, goodnight sister mine And rest now in moonlight's embrace Bear up my lullaby, winds of the earth Through cloud, and through sky, and through space Carry the peace and the coolness of night And carry my sorrow in kind Luna, you're loved so much more than you know May troubles be far from your mind And forgive me for being so blind♪ ♪The years now before us, fearful and unknown I never imagined I'd face them on my own May these thousand winters swiftly pass, I pray I love you, I miss you all these miles away♪ ♪May all your dreams be sweet tonight Safe upon your bed of moonlight And know not of sadness, pain, or care And when I dream, I'll fly away and meet you there Sleep... sleep... sleep...♪ At the end of her song, I find myself crying and I sniffle and jump up onto her statue’s shoulder and put a hand on her cheek. “Your sister will be home soon and then you two can be together.”  > Chapter 4 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Pearl said it would be good practice for me to write down my thoughts now and then, and I agree with her I look up as Pearl is telling Amethyst to put the books back in the temple, then continue to write.  So in the past few days I have learned a lot from Pearl, I learned that the gems are from a year after Steven met White Diamond, so they are from after the end of ‘change your mind’ but before the movie. I also learned how to make holograms like Pearl but I still can't seem to get mine to act once they are separated from me, I also learned how to store items in my gem though I've only stored things that I can go without losing just in case I can't get them back out. And lastly, I've been trying to learn how to summon my gem weapon. Yes, I can use my other shields but I feel the rose shield is stronger and more iconic than the Diamond ones. I heard Pearl give a shout as I see Ship had morphed into a suit of armor around her and is making her do some ridiculous dance moves while Amethyst watched, laughing at Pearl's misfortune. I shake my head with a smile and continue to write. Well tonight is the night Nightmare Moon returns, me, the gems, and Daring have come up with a plan and if nothing unexpected happens then everything should work out like the file says it will. “Jake we need to get ready hurry up!” I hear Amethyst yell out. I nod and write one last thing. Before I go, I want to add that I met this nice Zebra named Zecora, she is a wonderful person, too bad Her choice of clothes makes me blush every time I see her. Hopefully, we can be good friends, she even saved me from Amethyst’s bad choice of berries to eat. So long for now. I close the notepad app on my tablet and get up and set it in my backpack. “Ok is everything ready? Sunset will happen any minute.” I ask Pearl. Pearl nodded, “Yes, everything is ready, even despite Ship and Amethyst's pranks.” she said as she gave the two a stern look. I pat Pearls back. “I'm sure they are just trying to help you relax a little, you have been putting a lot of pressure on yourself. This isn't homeworld Pearl, you don't have to do everything, and everything doesn't have to be perfect.”  “I know Jake, but it’s just been a bit stressful, with us in this new world, with creatures that Earth thought were just myths, and the fact we are about to fight a god of sorts!” Pearl said, then let out a sigh. I nod and smile softly. “I know what you mean, it is a bit scary, but remember we are only going to be slowing her down not trying to beat her. Also, remember what I said she is suffering from an organic form of corruption. The six ponies coming tonight will take care of that, we just need to keep them safe.” Pearl nodded, “Right, but uh, do the notes Rick left have any info on what she can do? So we are much more prepared.” I hold out my phone to her. “As far as I've read, she is extremely powerful magically, cold-hearted to those she sees as ‘sun lovers’ and in some worlds deadly with a scythe, and lastly in most worlds, she specializes in ice magic. But feel free to go over the notes again.” “Thanks.” she said, taking the phone and looking over the notes again. I look over at Ship and Amethyst playing and chuckle. “Those two seem to be getting along great.” “Well can you blame them? The two are more like kids than anything, besides Steven, she didn’t have anyone else to play with her.” Pearl said as she looked over to the two with a smile. I take a deep breath then let it out slowly to keep calm as this always seems to happen, Pearl referring to me as Steven while she is distracted. “That is true, how well is Garnet? I know she is back together but can she hold herself together now that Ruby and Sapphire have studied this world a bit?”  “She is...doing alright, though she is keeping herself from looking into the future, it’s making her nervous not knowing what’s going to happen, but she doesn’t want to show it.” Pearl replied. I nod understanding a bit. “It must be new for her, not being able to see the future.” I sigh a bit hoping things get better for her. “At least she has us, and herself er...Ruby and Sapphire um...ugh talking about fusions are confusing!” I fell back into a chair. “You’ll get used to it.” Pearl said with a small laugh. I tap my chin as that brings up an old fan debate I used to have. “Speaking of fusions, I have two questions about it right now, first is there a limit as to how many gems can fuse together at once? Assuming they all can harmonize that is, and second, what happens if two or more gems try to fuse when their gems are in the same location? for example you and  Peridot, or blue and yellow diamond.” “Well, every single gem can fuse as long as the gems don’t overlap for the first one and for the second, gems with the same gem placement can’t fuse because of where their gems are.” Pearl explained. I nod at the explanation. “I see, well that's good to know I suppose. Well seeing as everyone here has their gem in a different place we don't have to worry about that problem anytime soon, then again I doubt we would need Obsidian for anything here.” “I agree.” I looked and saw Garnet walk up to us. “I don’t need future vision to know Obsidian won’t be needed for this mission.” I smile and offer a fist bump to her. “Good to see you again Garnet.”  Garnet smiled as she fist-bumped me, “It’s good to be back.” I smirk and point at her glasses. “After this is over I want you to teach me how to make glasses like that, well minus the prescription.” “So you can make yourself look cooler or because you just want to try?” Garnet asked me. I shrug and smile. “A bit of both, nothing wrong with looking cool especially for a badass entrance.” “True.” Garnet said, “Alright, I’ll show you how when this is over.” “Cool.” I notice the sun is going down. “Alright everyone the sun is setting which means we must be ready, remember the plan and if anything goes wrong call out for help do not try to be a hero.” “You got Jake.” Amethyst said, “Hopefully we’ll get to see some action!” “Ship ship!” Ship said as he bounced to me. I smile and pet Ship. “I know you want some action but I’m hoping we won't have to fight at all…” I paused for a moment then chuckled. “I guess I am a bit like Steven after all.” “And that’s not a bad thing.” Pearl said, her hand on my shoulder as she handed me my phone. I smile and take my phone back, sliding it into my pocket. “Oh small change of plans though, last time Daring was here she brought up a good point that we are leaving the town undefended, on the off chance Nightmare moon has any plans for the town while the rest of us are busy, I want Ship to defend it.” I looked down at him. “Think you can handle that?” Ship morphed into a suit of armor, then into a giant cannon, then back to normal, “Ship ship!” he replied, saluting. I chuckle and nod. “Just be careful not to destroy the town while protecting it, we don't want them thinking you're a monster too.” Ship gave a nod, “Alright, we have someone defending the town while we help the ponies get the Elements. We are good to go then?” Pearl asked me. I nod and put a hand out and they smile and each one put their hand over mine. “Yeah, we will make it through this, we are the crystal gems, now let's go protect this new world!” Each one of them nodded their heads, smiles on their faces. We each go to our positions throughout the castle as Ship also flies off to the town. I waited next to the spheres that are supposed to be the elements of harmony for what felt like hours, and when I checked my phone I groan in annoyance as it has been hours but then it suddenly gets brighter I look up and see the moon no longer has the shadow of a unicorn's head on it. “Showtime.” I stand up and take a breath and calm my thoughts and watch the doorway waiting and after another few hours, I hear hoof steps. “They should be up ahead, come on everypony!” an unknown voice calls out. “Great! Now Nightmare Moon will be done for and the sun will come back up!” I heard another voice say. Soon six young-looking mares come into the room from the stairway, two unicorns, one mare was white with purple curling hair and blue eyes, wearing what seems to be a silk shirt with a low v-cut, and tight jeans that don't look that comfortable to me. The other is a lavender mare with a light purple streak through her dark purple hair,  purple eyes, and wearing what seems like a school uniform that has a dress shirt, and a skirt that goes down to her knees.  The next two to come in are two earth ponies, the first is that orange farmer that I met a few days ago wearing the same outfit, while the second is an all pink mare with sky blue eyes, puffy hair, and a bright smile, she is wearing jean overalls and a blue shirt underneath. And lastly two Pegasus’s? Pegasi? The first is a light blue and she seems to be wearing a tracksuit and has rainbow-colored hair and violet eyes. The second is butter yellow with pink hair that hides half her face, she is wearing a deep green colored sweater and a blue skirt.  They all freeze in place once they spot me standing between them and the elements of harmony. “Who are you?! What are you?! How did you get here?!” the lavender mare, from Rick’s notes tell me her name was Twilight Sparkle. I nod slightly to myself then say. “My name isn't important right now, just get the elements now, before Nightmare shows up.” I step to the side and keep an eye on them. “How do we know you don’t work for her?” the light blue pegasus, Rainbow Dash I believe, accused me, flying up to me, “How did you know we would come for them if you weren’t working for her? Explain that!” Now I see why Rick labeled her as annoying in his notes.  I close my eyes and use my breathing to keep myself calm, then I look at her and the others. “Let's see, there is a thousand-year-old evil alicorn on the loose that wants to bring out eternal night, and the only things that can stop her are in my home, I may not have known who was coming for the Elements of harmony but I knew someone would.”  Then I wave my arm to the stone orbs. “And I've moved away from them for you so either get them or maybe you want to keep talking till Nightmare moon shows up?” Rainbow Dash was about to say something, but the earth pony, Applejack, grabbed her and pulled her back, “Don’t be picking fights with others Dash, besides, he’s telling the truth.”  I smile at Applejack. “Thank you miss, but you all should hurry before Nightmare shows up.” I tell them all and see something move past a window and frown. “Right, I’ll just try to use a spell to find the spark, but I need total silence.” Twilight said as she walked up to the pillars. “Come on y’all let's let her concentrate, that means you too youngin.”  Applejack says then tries to pull me along but I keep myself planted in place.  “Go, I'm staying.” I told her not taking my eyes off of the window I saw movement from. “But she said she needed silence. And I need to keep an eye on you in case you’re lying.” Rainbow said. I don’t move but I do hold a hand up and make a bubble shield around myself. “I said, I'm not going, I can be quiet now either wait here quietly or leave the unicorn is working on her spell.” I say just loud enough to be heard but quiet enough to not disturb Twilight. The mares looked a bit frightened but left, they gave me one last look before closing the door. Not long after that do the stone elements start to glow and lift off the ground for a moment only to fall down as a window breaks open and Nightmare moon flies in along with someone else. My eyes widen when I see a gem in their chest and clench my fists. “Well well well, seems you found the elements, too bad they won't work for you little pony” Nightmare said to twilight then looks at me and frowns pointing at me she simply says. “Kill.”  And the gem flew at me with amazing speed and slammed me through a wall making me roll around in my bubble. 3rd POV The Everfree once was quiet, now the air was filled with the sounds of large creatures stomping through the forest, moving past the tree line, the stone golems looked at the town of Ponyville, one thought in their blank minds, destroy. The largest let out a roar as they charged towards the town, the ponies seeing them began to panic as the golems charged, until….. “Ship!” The golems stopped as they looked where the sound came from, seeing Ship just standing in front of the town. “Ship ship!” he said, his single eye glaring at the golems, the golems looked at each other confused before one stomped towards Ship, raising its fist and prepared to pound Ship with it. Only for a clawed hand to grab the stone fist, the golem watched as Ship morphed into a large mech, not as large as the Golems but still bigger than any of the ponies in town, “Ship!” Ship said, his other hand changing into a blaster he destroyed the golem with one shot. The rest of the golems let out a roar as Ship made a ‘come at me’ motion with his hand, multiple weapons appearing on his body, before charging at the golems, both forces met as Ship either pounded or blasted, turning them from giants to pebbles in seconds, and any damage the golems did was healed by Ships regeneration. The town ponies watched the battle, shocked and awed, Ship using a blade he cut a golem in half before blasting it, then was cut in half by the larger golems sword, before stomping on him, the leader let out a roar as he pointed at the town with his sword, charging forward, before hearing a strange sound as he looked where it was coming from, seeing Ship flying at it, then stabbed its head and with a single move, cut it in half, watching as the two pieces fell to the ground. The ponies in town let out a cheer, most of them anyway, while others were worried their defender might attack their town instead, after the battle was over Ship stood on top of a large pile of rocks, his weapons disappearing, he then heard movement and looked and saw a small filly looking at him, he tilted his head then pat the filly on the head, then pointed at the town, “Ship.” he said, the filly nodded her head, then began to head back to the ton, but not before she handed Ship a small flower.  Ship gave a happy bark in reply, before putting the flower in a small compartment then looked towards the forest, ready to face whatever else comes out. Jakes POV After I stop rolling I look up to see the new gem flaring down at me. I pop my shield while making a small hand-sized hexagonal shield and start spinning it like a saw blade.  “I don't know who you are but we don't have to fight, just stand down and let's talk.”  I try to talk things out but this gem fires some kind of beam from its face and I jump out of the way and throw my spinning shield at her and it cuts one of her legs. I look closer and see her eyes are completely yellow. ’ok so either she is corrupted, damaged, or being mind-controlled no matter what I have to poof her before she can kill me.’ I think to myself.  The mysterious gem glared at me as her leg regrew, she then changed as she became sleeker, thinner as she sped towards me with speeds I thought were nearly impossible, she rammed into me as we flew through the castle, slamming into walls and such, we stopped in one room as I went flying the moment she stopped, slamming into the wall while some cracks formed from the impact, I glared at the gem. “Jake!” I looked and saw Pearl and Amethyst, both shocked. I groan as I pull myself off the wall and pop my neck and start glowing pink. “Good news, bad news, and worse news, what do you guys want to hear first?”  I say glaring at the mystery gem. The gem glared at me as well as it charged at just as Amethyst said, “How about all of them in that order?” I make a big hexagonal shield just in time as the evil gem slams into it and the shield cracks. “Good news, the mares got to the elements.” I drop the shield and jump at the evil gem and punch her in the face, making her fly back into an empty bookshelf.  The gem got back up, and changed again, this time she was bulkier and bigger than the other forms. The gem crossed her arms and a shield appeared in front of her as she charged at me, ramming into me and causing us to crash through the wall. “Jake!” I hear Pearl and Amethyst call out and look up to see the mystery gem standing over me, her arms lifted like she is trying to smash me. I roll to the left just as her arms come down and smash the stone floor easily. I try to sweep her legs but as I swing my leg under her I see she is floating. ’What the hell?! Since when could a gem float...besides steven.’  I think to myself as I flip onto my feet and back up next to Amethyst and Pearl. “Pearl, you would know more about other gems, do you recognize this one?” “No, I have never seen a gem like this before.” Pearl replied, just as the gem charged again, causing us to dodge her. After coming to a stop from my roll I heard Amethyst ask. “You said there was bad news, what was it?” I make some hexagonal shields and throw them at the gem. “Bad news is gems exist in this universe, and the worse news is she is under Nightmare moon's control.” my shields hit her and knock her into the wall but before we can press the attack she charges right at me forcing me to block with my bubble shield again. The gem changed again, this time into that other form, the one that seemed to make her stronger or something as she blasted my shield, managing to crack it. ’Damn it, just how strong is she?!’  Pearl comes in with her spear and manages to stab the gems back but she just turns around and backhands Pearl away. To my surprise, her face starts to glow before she fires some kind of beam at Pearl. “Pearl move!”  Pearl heard my shout and rolled to the side, dodging the beam from the gem, and threw her spear at her, successfully hitting her, the spear stabbing through the gem's shoulder, but the gem didn’t seem to care as she tore it out as her wound healed. “Geez, she is more resilient than peridot. Amethyst, me, and Pearl will try to hold her go get Garnet. We may need someone stronger to deal with her.” I tell her then make some bubbles around my fists and run at the gem and punch her back knocking her towards Pearl. Pearl used her spear and hit her, sending the gem to me and I hit her again, me and Pearl kept hitting her like some game of tennis or something. Until the gem changed into that bulkier form as she summoned a shield, blocking my attack, and she grabbed my arm and threw it at Pearl. My eyes widen as I can't move and I end up knocking into Pearl. “Ouch, Pearl are you ok?” I ask as I get off her and help her up. “Yes, but this gem is far stronger than anything I have ever seen.” she said, looking at the strange gem who just gave us a blank glare. I nod and sigh before patting her shoulder. “Here is the plan, when Amethyst and Garnet get here, me and Garnet will keep her busy while you and Amethyst fuse, two fusions and a diamond should be enough to take her down.”  Pearl nodded her head, then grabbed my arm and pulled me to the side just as the gem slammed her fists into the ground where I just was, and before we could do anything, the gem was about to land a blow when suddenly…. “I don’t think so!” Garnet said as she stopped the fist by grabbing it with her gauntlets, “Back off!” Garnet then punched the gem in the face, sending her flying into a wall. I smile and nod to Pearl then step up next to Garnet. “I'm gonna assume you know my plan so let's do this.” I rush at the gem with Garnet right by my side and we both deliver a team punch that sends the gem through the next three walls. I look down at my fist in shock. ’Holy crap am I really that strong?’ I was brought out of my thoughts when the gem got back up, I saw that she was wearing a face mask, if the damaged pieces falling off her face was any indication, she gave me and Garnet a glare as she charged at us, grabbing me and Garnet by the necks and slammed us into the wall. I grab her arm and gasp for air and I notice a bright light come from across the room and smirk. “B-big m-mistake attacking us.”  The gem just tilted her head to the side just as a giant hand grabbed her and threw her away, I fell to the ground, breathing hard as I looked up and saw Opal. I rub my throat and smile. “Nice to meet you Opal, ready to kick some butt?” I say standing up and getting into a fighting stance. “I’m always ready.” Opal said, combining Pearl's spear and Amethyst’s whip into her signature bow as she fired at the gem, just as she got up, sending her flying again. I nod and me and Garnet rush the gem and keep her on the defensive. I punch her towards Garnet, Garnet punches her up into the ceiling and then Opal fires an energy arrow at the gem and it goes all the way through her.    The gem falls to the ground and weakly stands up looking shaky before she starts to change again looking sharper and she flies straight at me with her arm pulled back to impale me with it. I summon a shield and make it grow a spike and she rams right onto it. I look up to see her swell up like a balloon and poof. I quickly drop the shield and catch her gem before it hits the ground. “Holy cow, we did it!”  “Indeed we did.” Garnet said, “Now go check on those ponies, we’ll deal with the gem.” I nod and offer the gem to Opel then ran off. Once I hear the voices of the mares I follow them to the top of a tower and as I enter the room I see the six of them standing in front of Nightmare moon with stone fragments spinning around their necks. I see Twilight look back and she smiles. “And this strange colt represents the element of courage.” She looks around but nothing happens before she stares at Nightmare. “Together they helped me get through every one of your challenges.”  Nightmare looked scared. “But it didn't work! The sixth Element didn't appear, the spark didn't work!” “But it did, a different kind of spark.” Twilight turns to face the other mares. “I realized it when I heard your voices calling out when I realized you all are...my friends!” Just then there is a bright light above her as a star-shaped crystal slowly floats down over Twilight's head then each of the floating stone fragments around the other’s necks come together forming necklaces and they all start floating up together before a rainbow beam is fired at Nightmare. Nightmare Moon watched in fear before her horn started to glow, most likely trying to teleport away, but before she could, the gem me and the others were fighting appeared behind her and wrapped her arms around her, keeping her in place. “What?! No! You are supposed to be under my control!” Nightmare Moon said, just as the rainbow beam hit them both. I cover my eyes with how bright it got. When I look back I see the mares laying on the ground barely conscious, the gem knocked back into its gem and a blue mare that I realize is Luna surrounded by metal armor shards.  I walk up and look her over seeing she is in a dress of some kind but she is breathing then when I look at the armor I get a cold feeling so I bubble each piece. By the time I finish and have them all floating next to me, the mares start to come around. “Huh?” Twilight sits up looking confused. “I guess you weren't just spitting a bunch of hooey, I guess we do represent the element of friendship.” the orange mare said. “What I want to know is, why do you have those?!” Dash said, pointing at the bubbled pieces of armor. I look at her then at the bubbles surrounding me. “I’m keeping us safe, something feels off with these pieces of armor, so I'm quarantining them within bubbles.” “And how do we know you ain’t lying?!” Dash said as she flew up to my face, I glare at her and make a fist, but before I can say anything else there is a bright light and a tall woman walks in from the window. The crystal gems also come into the room but from the door. “Later, skittles.” I say then walk over to my friends with the bubbles following me. “Wait who are you?” I heard Twilight ask me, I turn to face her and notice everyone is looking at me. “My name is jake…” I look down then smile back at them. “Jake Quartz Diamond.” “Well thank you for your help Jake.” the tall woman said, from Rick's notes her name was Celestia. I smile at her and say. “You are welcome, your highness, but I believe you should be speaking with your sister right now.” The six mares with necklaces and a tiara all yell at once. “SISTER!?” Celestia winced a bit from the yelling, but walked over to Luna, Luna starts to get up and when she looks up and her eyes widen when she sees her sister then she spots me. I give her a thumbs up and smile. Luna smiles back as she looked to her sister, just as the gems walked up to me, “So we won right?” Amethyst asked me, I nod and look at Amethyst. “Yeah we won, a bit more violently than how Steven would have solved it but I feel happy with our win, by the way, how did you free the new gem?” “We didn’t. We didn’t even have a chance to bubble her to help her before she reformed and just flew off.” Pearl said, I nod in understanding. “Well, she is knocked out and back in her gem over behind Luna over there.” I point over to the gem still on the ground.  “Well, what are we waiting for, let’s grab her before she comes back and attacks us again.” Amethyst said, I sigh and nod. “Yeah but I don't want to trap her, you didn't notice it but she was being controlled by Nightmare moon, she will be free now, and keeping her in a bubble wouldn't be right.” I start walking towards the gem but the blue mare with the rainbow mane flies in front of me glaring. “And what are you doing huh?” she asked me, then grabbed the gem, “I remember this! This thing is evil. So it should go to the princess-” the gem glowed as Dash dropped, and soon the strange gem was back, looking at each of us. I step closer and wave at her. “Greetings you are free of Nightmare moon’s control, what is your name?”  I also push the rainbow mane mare back. The gem didn’t respond, just stared at me, “Um, can you talk?” I ask her, she didn’t respond again, she just kept staring at me, ‘Wonder what she is thinking.’ ??? POV I stared at the boy in front of me, seeing the dark pink energy. I didn’t know much of this boy, but he is troubled. “Um hello? Can you hear me at all?” he asked me, then in a blink of an eye, I pulled him in for a hug.  He helped me, now it is my turn to help him. No matter the cost. Jakes POV I am surprised by a sudden hug from her. I look up at her face and gently push against her. “I get that you're happy to be free but please say something.” I said to her, she just tilted her head in response before keeping me in a hug. I sigh and look behind me as much as I can. “Pearl please help.” “Right, I’m coming-” Pearl interrupted when the gem gave her a glare, her hand glowing as she shot a small beam that went by Pearl and hit the wall behind her, I can tell that was a warning shot. I frown and lift my hand up to her face. “Hey! She is my friend, do not hurt my friend or I will put you in a bubble.” She looked at then looked back at the gems, then the glow around her hand went away as she continued to hug me, which meant that she listened to me. I let out a sigh of relief, I wiggle a bit till I manage to turn around and frown when I see a few of the mares giggling at me. I look to Pearl and grumble. “Pearl, do you know of any gems that don't speak? Do you have any ideas of how to get her to let go of me?” “Sorry Jake but I don’t know of any gems that don’t speak.” she said as she walked to us and grabbed the gems arm and tried to free me, only to our surprise, her arm split into two tendrils, one was in Pearl's hands, while the other was still wrapped around me, “uh, well it looks like she doesn’t want to let go. Oh dear, I’ll try my best to get you free.”  I frown in both annoyance and confusion. “Listen I don't know who you are or if you can even speak, but I want you to let go of me right now.” my pink glow starts coming back as I get ready to get myself free.  But the gem let me go before I could do anything. I look at her and see she had a look of worry on her face as she looked at me. I relax a bit and cross my arms thinking for a moment then look at her. “You can obviously understand me so if you have the ability to speak but are just choosing not to please not your head up and down.” The gem looked at then shook her head no, which meant she can’t speak or she just refuses to answer, I’m hoping for the former. I sigh and look back at the gems. “This is strange, I don't even know her name.” I look back at her and scratch my chin. “Ok let's try this, if you can understand me fully then-” I look over as I hear Ship coming. “Ship ship!” he said as he hopped into the room, then jumped into my arms.  “What is it boy?” I asked him, and just before he could respond, the yellow pegasus with a pink mane flew up to us and looked at Ship. Fluttershy was her name I believe. “Oh my goodness, I have never seen a creature like you before!” she said,  I chuckle and smile petting Ship. “This is Ship he is a galvanic mechamorph dog.” I told her. then looked down at him. “I see your back, did you do a good job protecting the town?” “Ship ship!” Ship said happily, then a small flower appeared from his head as he played a video of a filly giving it to him. I chuckle and smirk. “Good boy, now why don't you show this nice pegasus what you can do, just be gentle.” with that I set Ship down and turn to the new gem and then continue where I left off. “As I was saying before, if you can fully understand me then I would like you to write down your story and give that to Pearl here.” I wave at Pearl. “That way I can know a bit about you.” The gem nodded her head, though it was as if she seemed to be a bit hesitant when she did as if she was afraid. As she does I turn to face the ponies and frown that the one named rainbow dash according to Rick’s notes, keeps glaring at me. I step forward and clap my hands. “Well, congratulations on saving the world now please leave our home we have a lot of cleaning up to do.” This got Celestia to raise an eyebrow, but before she can say anything Rainbow dash gets in my face again. “Your home!? What makes you think this your home?! How do we know you just aren’t waiting for us to leave so you could-” before she could say anymore, the gem had grabbed Rainbow Dash and lifted her up to eye level as she glared at her, causing the pegasus to freeze. My eyes widen and I grit my teeth. “Hey! Set her down gently, she is just annoying. She hasn't hurt me, as far as I'm concerned she isn't a threat.” I tell the gem getting up next to her. She looks at then back at Rainbow then gently put her down, then Rainbow flew back to the others, I look at the gem with annoyance, ’I swear this gem is way too overprotective.’ I thought to myself. ’I need help, but nobody here has encountered her before, I need help from someone who has been around someone who….’ I snapped my fingers when I had an idea, “I know just the guy to help me out, but I don’t want them to know, it’s bad enough one of them doesn't trust me or the gems.” “Um, who are you talking to dude?” Amethyst asked me. I looked at her, “I was, uh kinda talking to myself, but I have an idea who can help us out with our mysterious gem problem, but I can’t call him in front of them, otherwise some argument about I’m calling an invasion fleet or some stupid bullshit like that.” I said to her. She nods then smiles and flexes her arms. “Want me to show them the door?” Pearl walks up and shakes her head. “Amethyst that is incredibly rude! Besides they are the only people around for miles jake needs some kind of interaction besides us.” “That is true, it is very boring here. “Garnet said. “And Daring and Zecora don’t count as he hardly ever spends time with them.” Garnet added when Amethyst was about to speak.  “Fine, so what? We just hang around and talk with them?” Amethyst asked. Just then the pink earth pony pulls all the ponies into a group hug. “You know what this calls for?!” she asks excitedly and before anyone can answer her she yells out. “A PARTY!” and Suddenly all of us the ponies, the gems, and myself are all transported to the center of the town. “What just happened?! How did we get here?!” PEarl asked, looking around, “We were just in the castle, how did we move from there all the way to here?!”  I put a hand on her back to calm her down. “Pearl, remember what the notes said, this place is filled with magic, one of them probably teleported us and even if they didn't remember one of the rules in Rick's notes ‘never question the pink one’.” “Right, i-it’s just, it happened so fast I didn't even have time to even blink!” she said, then looked at Pinkie,  I nod a bit unnerved myself and look at pinkie as well, she turns to us and waves with a smile. “I agree...she reminds me of uncle grandpa.” I mutter to myself but Pearl hears me.  “Who?” she asked me, then shook her head, “No, if he is similar to her, then I really don’t want to know.” “No you do not, let’s just say it was an adventure your tv show counterparts had with a reality-warping humanoid, that Pearl almost went crazy trying to understand what was happening, so my advice...do not question the pink one.” I tell her then smile as I walk over to the food table but the new gem flies over and sticks by my side making me sigh. “Haha! Jakes got a fan.” Amethyst laughs as she eats a cupcake. I roll my eyes and look up at my mysterious friend. “I wish I could understand you, for all I know you want to take me back to homeworld as a pet.” I then realized that saying Homeworld was probably a mistake as she seemed to look terrified of the mere mention of said planet. I watch her as I ask. “Do you work for homeworld or are you an off-color?”  I ask then hold up a hand. “ Lift your right hand if you are an off-color, and your left hand if you work for homeworld.” She seemed to think about then lifted her right hand, which meant she was an off-color then slightly raised her left, which meant she probably worked for Homeworld. I raise an eyebrow and rub my chin. “That is odd, no offense to you but the homeworld I know wouldn't let a off color work for them.”  I look up at her. “Ok, these are serious questions, first, how many diamonds are there? Second, do they know about this world? Third is it your job to report this world to them, add on to that, do you intend on telling them of this world? And forth what Dimond if any do you serve?” I ask her then wave Pearl over to translate her writings. The gem shakily tried to write as best as she could, she handed Pearl what she wrote as she read it the the gem continued writing, “There are eight Diamonds, most of them, including Yellow, Blue and White Diamond, don’t know about this world, but the others do, my job was to be….” Pearl stopped reading and just stared at the paper, “Well, what was her job?” Amethyst asked, and Pearl responded with something that made me kinda fearful. “A weapon,” the gem handed her the next page, “I was supposed to serve under Blue Diamond as she ordered my creation, but I was created as an off-color, and was sentenced to be shattered.” that is when I saw the tears in the gems eyes. I walk up to the gem and hug her. “Well, I guess you found a new home if you want to stay, we are the crystal gems, we fight for a gem’s right to be whoever they want to be.” I step back and offer a smile. “Mind telling us your name? And why do you seem to care for me so much? I mean I would think you'd be terrified of me.” The gem wiped away the tears and wrote again, then she handed the paper to Pearl, “She doesn’t know her name or what kind of gem she is, as for why she cares for you so much, well, she says it has something to do with your energy being corrupt, she said she saw a dark pink energy  and a lighter shade of pink energy, saying that she would do anything to make that energy go away cause it was bad and that you helped her.” Pearl said, “Well that answers a few of our questions, but not all of them, I think you should call whoever you were going to call before we ended up here if we need to get more answers.” I nod and whistle for Ship. “Ship ship!” Ship said as he hopped over to me, and I can see that the gem was looking at him curiously.  “Alright SHip, I remember Rick said he had a communicator he let you absorb and copy, do you think you can turn into that boy?” I asked Ship, who nodded happily, “Alright, but let’s wait till we find a secluded spot, too many prying eyes.” I rub my chin watching pinkie get the party really going and the two Alicorns off at a table alone then grin. “Say, Amethyst why don't you go show that Pink pony how gems party.” Amethyst grinned, “Aw yeah! Now that is something I’m good at!” she said,  I smirk softly. “And now we have a distraction.” “Clever move Jake.” Pearl said to me, then to Amethyst, “Alright Amethyst, go ahead and party.” that was all Amethyst needed to hear before she ran off into the crowd. I smirk seeing her already getting everyone's attention. “Alright the rest of us need to go somewhere out of sight, and you're coming with.” I grab the gem’s arm and start walking to an alleyway.  Once we were hidden from everyone, I looked to Ship, “Alright boy, now change.” I said to him,  “Ship ship!” Ship said, then morphed into a ball-like shape, the ball top half opened up as a contact list was shown on a floating screen, there were only two numbers, so I clicked on the first one, after a few seconds, Rick appeared on the screen.  “Hello?!” he said, then ducked under something, “Whoever it is I’m a bit busy here! So make it quick!” “Hey it's me, Jake, sorry to call you in the middle of whatever is happening but I kinda got a problem here.” I say to the screen and watch it move around as he continues to fight someone. “Jake! Long time no see man! How’s it-whoa!” Rick dropped his communicator and all I saw was mud, I heard lightning and water? in the background then the screen showed Rick's face again, “Sorry about that, anyway what’s the problem?” I turn the screen enough to show the new gem as I explain. “Well, the good news is Nightmare moon is defeated, the bad news is there are Gems in this universe, and here is one of the new gems, she can't speak, and we don't know what she is other than what she has told us through writing.” Rick went wide-eyed, “Dude, I know what she is, she is Deoxys from Pokemon, though Deoxys doesn’t look like that, tell me what she told you.” Rick said, dodging a torrent of water and we heard something snap and fall. “Shit, Tia ain’t gonna be happy about this.” “Well, she told us that she was made to be a weapon and that there are eight diamonds in this universe.” I tell him then look at Pearl if she wants to add anything. “She also is able to change her form, though we thought it was shapeshifting, but each form she changes into seems to give her different effects.” Pearl said, Rick nodded his head,  “I see, eight diamonds is gonna be a problem, but from what you told me she definitely fits the description of Deoxys, sending info now.” Rick said, then an image appeared of the gem, except it was different, then the name Deoxys appeared as it changed into the similar forms the gem changed into with a description of each one, Defense Form was the bigger, bulkier one, Speed was the thin and slender one, and Attack, then info went away as Rick appeared again, this time a bit soaked as sparks flew off his body, “Alright, I also add in some other things, Deoxys is one of the Legendaries in Pokemon, and they are considered gods in the franchise, which means it would make sense for her to be a weapon.” I frown and listen to Rick. “Do you have a way that would let her speak?” “Well I do, but you won’t need it, Deoxys is a Psychic-type, which means in time, she’ll talk to you through your mind, but if you really want it, the communicator comes with a translator, so she’ll be able to talk to you until she learns her psychic abiliti-” Rick was hit by a blast of water and dropped the screen, the communicator rolled a bit until it stopped and showed… “Rick you asshole!” Lapis said angrily as giant hands made of water appeared and were sent towards Rick, who was off-screen and we couldn’t see what happened but we heard the pain shouts so we got the idea, a bolt of lightning struck the ground in front of Lapis as Rick grabbed the communicator again. “I get you're pissed at me, but I’m the fucking phone!” Rick said to Lapis, though he regretted it if the look on his face was any indication. “Oh shit, um, is there anything else you needed to know before my certain imminent death?” “Nope, good luck, take it from a guy who lived with two mothers and an older sister, never piss off a woman.” I say with a smirk.  “I’ll be sure to remember that…..if I survive.” Rick said, “See you later, I hope.” then a large fist of water hit Rick and the communicator’s screen showed static. “Well, that was interesting to watch.” Garnet said, “Welp...he is doomed.” I say jokingly then turn to this Deoxys. “So I guess your name is Deoxis if you want it.” Deoxys seemed to think about it then nodded her head, giving a smile as well. “Ship ship!” SHip said as a small hatch opened on the communicator, revealing a small collar with an emerald on it. I look down at Ship then pick up the collar. “Huh, this must be the translator Rick mentioned.” I hold it up to Deoxys. “Here, try it on so we can finally hear your words.” Deoxys nodded as she took the color and put it on her neck, then the emerald glowed as a voice spoke from it, “Sentient life form detected, beginning translation process.” the voice said as the gem glowed a bit before beeping, “Translation complete, you are now able to speak freely, have a nice day.” Then the emerald stopped glowing. “That was weird.” Garnet said, I shrug and say. “Rick probably programmed it to say that, go ahead and give it a try D.”  “Um, does it work?” Deoxys said, her voice was soft and quiet, “Hey it works.”  I smile and chuckle. “Great, now that you can talk, would you like to join the crystal gems? It would mean you would help us fight homeworld if they come for this planet, and I am technically a diamond.” “You’re a diamond? Which one?” Deoxys asked me,  I lift my shirt showing my gem. “I would technically be pink diamond.” “Pink Diamond? I never heard of her.” Deoxys said, “I'm not surprised, it's very complicated but I inherited this gem and its powers. It's a part of me just as your gem is a part of you even though I'm part organic.” I tell her as I look down at my gem. “Is something wrong?” Deoxys asked me, I shake my head. “No, it's just...new for me.” I force myself to smile. “But you didn't answer my question, do you want to be a crystal gem?” Deoxys nodded her head, “Yep!” she said, enthusiastically. I chuckle and smile. “Alright, whenever you want, just add a star to your form we crystal gems all have a star somewhere on us.” I tell her then someone slams onto the ground when I turn to look I see Rainbow Dash.  “I knew you were trouble! You are making an army of these things!” she yells and flares her wings. Deoxys immediately moved in front of me, changing into, from what Rick showed me, her Attack Form, her arms splitting into two sharp tendrils as she glared at Rainbow. I sigh and put a hand on Deoxys’ shoulder. “Stand down, look we are an unknown to them of course they will be suspicious of us but do not attack them or look threatening at them unless they actually hit one of us understand?” Deoxys looked at me then glared back at Rainbow before she sighed, “Ok.” she said as she changed back, still glaring at Rainbow. I then step forward. “Look we aren't making an army it's just there are very few of our kind on this pl...in this country.”  Rainbow still glared at us, though I can tell she sorta believes me, I am about to say something when Luna seems to find us as well then she smiles and walks up to me and we are about the same height. “Thank you young colt, you gave me the strength to fight the nightmare by visiting my dreams.” Then she surprised me with a kiss on my cheek. I slightly blushed but smile, “It was no problem, I’m just glad to help out.” I said, Luna smiles with a light blush so light I may have just imagined it. “It is a simple reward for one so brave, but why do you and your friends hide from the party?” “They were just trying to help me out a bit, I couldn't talk so they tried to help me find other ways of communicating.” Deoxys said, Luna looks at Deoxys and thinks for a moment then her eyes widen. “You are the golem we found on the moon just before our freedom!”  I step in front of Deoxys. “Yes but she is free of nightmares control, and she isn't a golem, she is a person just like you and me.” Luna nodded, “I see, but I must for your forgiveness for controlling you.” Luna said to Deoxys, Deoxys instead of answering, just hugged Luna, “You are forgiven.” I smile seeing this heartwarming scene, then I notice Celestia is watching from the corner of the building. I tilt my head as a way to invite her but she smiles and shakes her head then leaves.  “I still don't trust you or your freaky golems.” Rainbow said before flying off.  Luna looks upset but I hold a hand up. “It's fine, if I was in her shoes I wouldn't trust someone right away either. How about we head back to the party before Amethyst destroys it?” “I think that is a good idea.” Luna said, nodding her head, “So Amethyst is the small purple one right?” I nod but make an uncertain face. “She is, but I think her size is a touchy subject to her, but I can't remember completely.” The gems and Luna start heading back to the party but I look up at the sky and frown. “Jake, are you coming?” Pearl’s voice snaps me out of it and I turn to them and follow. > Chapter 5 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ok so this is my second entry into this journal I think pearls right written down my thoughts now and then would be good for me would also be good practice anyway, what happened after last time was we thought Nightmare Moon or more specifically me and the gems fought a new gem called the Deoxys.  I look up to see said gem watching me as I write and sigh before continuing. She was under the control of Nightmare moon the six mares manage to purify Luna with the elements of harmony while me and the gems proved Deoxys freeing her of mind control however what we found out later is that the gems do exist in this reality and there are more diamonds in this world then there were in Steven’s universe. But I fear that just a few of us won't be able to protect this world if the diamonds decide to take this world, and they don't have a connection to pink diamond as she does not exist in this universe. I tap my chin then look out the window to see the town in the distance getting an idea. But maybe we don't need to fight alone, if these six mares were able to stop Nightmare Moon, someone who could control a whole moon then maybe they could help defend this world from other gems if I fail at talking them down...I kinda wish I could speak with steven and learn how to talk things out better like him, but then I wouldn't be me I guess. Well, I’m gonna end this entry and try to make some friends in that nearby town till next time, this is jake quartz diamond signing off...god I’m a dork. I chuckle and shake my head before standing up and putting my journal in my gem then look to Deoxys. “I'm gonna head into town, maybe make some friends tell the others for me please.”  Deoxys nodded her head, “Ok, but be careful.” she said to me, giving me a quick hug. I nod and chuckle. “I will be, but I am a lot harder to hurt than a normal person.” I give her a hug back then jump out the window and do a rolling landing. ’Sweet I made the landing.’ I start walking through the woods not scared of it any more thanks to Zecora teaching me what plants and areas to avoid. It isn't long before I get to the village and look around. I see a blue blur fly around over my head and grumble.  I decide to head in the opposite direction and that takes me to what seems like an apple farm. I look at the thousands of trees in a row then decide it might be a good place for me to use my strength and get some money until I can make contact with daring do’s publisher. I follow the fence to the entrance of the farm and head in not seeing any keep-out signs. It isn't long I see Twilight, Applejack, and a third person that is about my height and looking more masculine. ’At least I won't be completely surrounded by girls now.’ I wave at them and put on a smile. “Hey girls, I was just looking around town and saw this apple farm, think the owners could use some help?” “Well, you’re talking to one of them.” Applejack said,  I have a look of mild surprise on my face. “Oh? I could tell from your outfit you were a farmer. I just didn't want to assume you owned this one. You know what they say about assuming.” I say with a shrug and smile. “Yep, assumption always leads to trouble, anyway, I don’t know if you can help, being a bit young to help out.” Applejack said,  I chuckle and have a confident smirk on my face. “If you're worried I don't have the strength to keep up don't worry, I'm a LOT stronger than I look.” Applejack chuckled as she ruffled my hair, “Sure you are Jake.” Applejack said, I frown and look at the wagon Twilight is pulling with her magic and walk over to it and grab the axle and lift the whole thing filled with apples with one arm. “Remember your own words on assuming, miss Applejack.” Applejack and Twilight stared at me in shock, “H-how?” Twilight asked me, I chuckle and set it down carefully. “I'm half gem, we are unbelievably strong when we need to be, now about a possible job miss applejack?” I ask sweetly but smugly. “Uh, r-right, well shoot, I guess I can hire ya.” Applejack said with a smile, “You’re just full of surprises aren’t ya?” I smile and thumb my nose. “Yeah you could say that, so what do I have to-” I am cut off as the boy next to us starts coughing before he burps up two scrolls making me blink in surprise. “Did he just burp up paper?”  Twilight giggles as she catches them and opens the first one. “Jake this is Spike, my number one assistant, and part of the dragon clans. His personal magic lets him send and receive letters from...P-P-Princess Celestia gave me two tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala!” she yells the last part making me cover my ears. “And what is this grand galloping gala?” I ask but by the looks on twilight’s and applejack’s faces, I feel like I asked something stupid.  “What’s the Grand Galloping Gala?! Why it’s the only most important and biggest ball ever!!” Twilight said, I take a step back and raise an eyebrow. “Not from this country miss twilight, I wouldn't know this.” I look over to the boy and hold out a hand. “I'm Jake, it's nice to meet another guy.” “What do you mean by that?” he asked me, accepting the handshake. I chuckle and say. “Ever since getting to this area all I've seen have been women.” At their confused looks I rolled my eyes and corrected myself. “Mares.”  They nodded in understanding.   I look over to Twilight who hasn't opened the second scroll. “So miss twilight if you don't mind my asking what does the second letter say?” “It’s actually for you Jake.” she replied, handing me the letter. “Oh? That's odd.” I take it and open it up with two tickets falling out and I read what's on the scroll. Dear noble colt Jake. I, Princess Luna hereby invite you and a guest of your choice to the Grand Galloping Gala in two months' time. Please have a formal suit and do not worry about payment we shall pay for anything you shall need for this night. Her royal highness, princess luna. “Huh...I guess I'm going to this party too.” I say and pick up the tickets before they are snatched out of my hand by Rainbow Dash.  “Like hay I would let you ruin such an awesome party like this!” She said holding my tickets. “Rainbow Dash! Give Jake those tickets right now!” Applejack shouted at the mare,  Rainbow scoffs and crosses her arms. “And why should I? He is obviously a threat who plans on attacking the princesses at the Gala!” I raise an eyebrow and shrug. “Well the only reason I want to go would be to see Luna, other than that it doesn't sound that fun.”  All three mares looked at me like I just said the sky is green. “What in tarnation are ya talking about?! The gala is the most amazing place to be and if I can go I’d sell so much of ma family food to buy so many new things we need for da farm!” “And I can spend the whole night with Princess Celestia!” Twilight said, then Rainbow spoke next, “And I can impress the Wonderbolts with my awesome moves!” she said excitedly, “I’ll impress them so much they’ll have to let me join!” I raise an eyebrow. “I didn't know they let thieves join their team, whoever they are.” I say to her then smirk a bit when I see I pissed her off.  “Oh you son of a-” Rainbow was about to say then Applejack grabbed her by the ear, “Oh no you don’t, no swearing at Jake got it!” Applejack said,  I smile and walk up and take my tickets back. “Thank you miss Applejack, now I think I should go before she tries to take them again.”  “Probably a good idea.” Twilight said, watching the two mares argue, “It might also give you some time to think of who to bring.” I rub my chin. “Yeah, good idea.” I wave and start walking leaving the farm. After I get to town I see Amethyst and wave at her as I walk up to her. “Hey amethyst, not causing any trouble are you?” “What?! Me? Noooo.” Amethyst denied, then laughed, “Ok yeah I am, but nothing too extreme just some small pranks. What are you doing Jake?” I roll my eyes with a smile. “Well, I'm avoiding Rainbow Dash because she is trying to steal my tickets to the grand galloping gala.”  “What? Grand Galloping what?” Amethyst asked me,  I lift up the two tickets. “It's some kind of big party that the princesses are throwing.” “Oh? And will anyone want those tickets?” Amethyst asked, and before I could think why she asked, I nodded my head, I immediately regretted my answer. “Awesome! Grand Galloping Gala tickets!” Amethyst said, loudly, catching the attention of everyone around us. I look around at almost every pony looking at me. I gulp, then glare at Amethyst.  “You're despicable.”  Then I run as fast as I can as everyone starts to chase me.  I heard Amethyst laugh as I ran, making sharp turns, going through alley’s hell, I even jumped over a building yet the massive horde of ponies were still after me. I eventually turned a corner but saw I had run into the worst thing ever. A dead end. I slowly turned around to see the huge horde of ponies slowly getting closer and offering me many things, one pink mare even offered me a date. Blushing I make a massive jump and look around for a safe place and see the library, but before I could land a group of pegasi grab me and take me over to a different part of town all offering me different things. “ENOUGH!” I make a bubble shield around myself pushing them back and then start falling. “No one is getting my tickets!”  They got scared and backed up, I crashed into the ground and I popped my shield and ran to the library and managed to get inside before anyone saw me. “Damn, so many ponies want to go to that damn party.” “I know the feeling.” I looked and saw Twilight glaring at her two tickets, “All my friends keep trying to do favors for me just to get these tickets.” I pant softly and lean on the door. “At least you didn't have older women hitting on you for them, and besides you have an easy solution to your problem.” I tell her and then I look up and frown slightly when I see all of her friends standing on the second floor. “Um Twilight, we want to apologize about that, we’re sorry for pestering you to choose one of us to go with ya to the Gala.” Applejack said, “Yeah, it was uncool of us.” Rainbow said, then Pinkie,  “We were such big meanie pants for doing that.” I cross my arms and watch but get a glare from Rainbow. Then Rarity stepped up. “It was very unladylike of us darling, please forgive us.” Twilight gave a small smile, “Of course I forgive you girls, you’re my friends, though I believe somepony still needs to apologize to Jake for treating him like a threat.” Twilight said, looking at Rainbow. Rainbow looks surprised then backs up into the air. “Wait what? But he came out of nowhere and knew all about Nightmare moon and even keeps her pet and ones like her around. How do we know he isn't the one that gave her that thing?” “Because Dash, unless I’m mistaken, he also fought that so-called ‘pet’ so that we could get the Elements of Harmony, and that pet also held Nightmare Moon in place so that way she wouldn't try and run away.” Applejack said, “And that pet is sentient and has a name, Deoxys I believe.” Applejack said, looking at me to see if she got the name right. I nod to Applejack and say. “That's right, and just because my friends aren't organic like you, doesn't mean they aren't people. They have fought for thousands of years to be seen as people and not things, and I won't let you belittle my family!” I say starting calm but getting madder and madder till I start glowing pink and have my teeth grit. Out of nowhere, I felt a pair of arms around me and when I looked I saw Deoxys was the one hugging me. “Jake, calm down please.” she said to me, and I start to calm down. After taking a few calming breaths my glow fades and I return to normal. “I’m ok now.” I say to her then turn to the ponies. “What you saw is what I call my pink form, think of it like a magic surge that can be controlled.”  “Amazing.” Twilight said, then shook her head, then looked at Rainbow, “Come one Rainbow, apologize.”  Rainbow had an angry look on her face, the begrudgingly said, “Fine, I’m sorry for saying you were a threat.” I nod and offer my hand. “I honestly don't mind if you think that, just keep it to yourself unless you have proof, after all like the old saying goes, assuming makes an ass out of you and me.”  “Hey!” I look over to see a donkey lady over by one of the bookshelves looking upset at me.  “Um...no offense ma'am.” she huffed and left. “Well, that was odd.” “Eh, I thought so as well.” Twilight said. "Also, how did she get in?” Twilight asked pointing at Deoxys, who was still hugging me,  “I came in through the leaves.” she replied, pointing up, and when we looked up we saw that there was a hole in the roof. I frown and lightly hit Deoxys. “That wasn't nice, do not destroy other people’s stuff just to get to me.” “Sorry.” she said, “But I was just flying around to see the town when I flew over this treehouse and sensed you getting mad so I rushed in to calm you down.” I sigh and wiggle trying to get free. “Well...thank you for calming me down but you can let go now.” “Awww, do I have to?” Deoxys pouted. I groan as both Pinkie and Rainbow start laughing at me. “Deoxys I am fine, you don't have to keep hugging me, besides we need to get home soon, also could you go get Amethyst she's somewhere in town.” “Ok.” she replied, letting me go and flying out the door. I sigh and look at the roof. “Sorry about the hole she is still new around...people.” “It’s fine, I’ll fix it up later.” Twilight said, “Anyway, I should probably write a letter to Celestia to decline these tickets.” I blink then facepalm. “If that's what you want to do go ahead.” Twilight looked a bit confused at my statement but shrugged her shoulders, “Spike.”  “Already ready Twilight.” Spike said, holding a piece of paper and a pen. I sneak out while she is talking and shake my head and look up at the sky as it changes from day to night, the stars coming out and I smile. “I wonder who I should take.” As I was walking I noticed that Deoxys was flying with Amethyst in her arms heading towards the castle, and it looked like Amethyst was having fun. I smile and shake my head and continue on my way home. ’Huh..only a week and I'm calling it home. Guess I must be quick to adapt.’  After a walk through the woods, I come to the castle and see Deoxys floating at the door looking worried. “There you are, why did you take so long to get here?” she asks me. I shook my head and said, “Calm down, nothing happened to me, besides it’s a bit tricky to navigate through this forest at night, then again, it is during the day as well.”  She floats over to me and hugs me but I keep walking. “Have you seen Pearl?” “She is in the library reading what books she can.” she replied, “The silent one is with her as well as the loud one.” It didn’t take a genius to know that she was talking about Garnet and Amethyst. I turn and head for the library and turn my head to look at Deoxys. “Why do you want to hug me so much?” “I don’t know, it just feels nice.” Was her reply, I just raise an eyebrow but turn to look where I'm going. “I hope Amethyst didn't do anything to get the ponies mad at us.” “Me too, though from what I’ve seen nothing too serious had happened.” Deoxys said, “Good.” I say as we walk into the library and I see the gems sitting together as Pearl reads. “Hey Pearl, what are you reading?” I ask as I walk to her. “Oh, hello Jake, I’m just reading a bit of a history book, at least one that is intact.” Pearl said, “Ah, I see, well you may want to visit the library in town the books there are up to date and you'll need to know the local customs within a few months, because you and I are going to something called the Grand galloping gala.” I told her and showed her the two tickets. “Grand Galloping Gala? What is that?” Pearl asked me. I shrug and give her the letter from Luna. “From what I got from Twilight and Applejack, it's a big party that the princesses throw every year.” “Oh a party, it’s been a while since I’ve been to one, but I’ll go.” Pearl said, looking over the letter, I nod and smile. “I figured you would be the best choice, no offense to the rest of you guys but, Amethyst is a party animal and this sounds more like a noble's party which means it's not going to be a party at all more just talking around.” “Eh, whatever, from what you told me, I’ll just die of boredom.” Amethyst said, “While Garnet would be silent for most of the party, if she's able to hold her stuff together with all those different people around and it might make some of the ponies there nervous.” Garnet just shrugged her shoulders. “And Deoxys is a wild card, but Pearl was around when Rose was still Pink diamond so she must have been to some balls or other kinds of fancy parties.” “That’s true.” Pearl said, but Deoxys pouted a bit. I look to Deoxys and sigh. “Look at it like this, you have a few months to bond with all of us.” I look at Pearl and smile sheepishly. “Thanks for coming Pearl, I don't think I'd be able to handle being around so many strangers without someone there I know.” “No problem Jake, besides, this might also give me a chance to see more of this world's culture.” Pearl said,  “Oh before I forget this goes for everyone, no mentioning that we're not from this planet, if you have to mention where we're from, just say very far away or not from this country, try to be vague without sounding like you're trying to hide the truth.” I tell them all. “Sure thing man.” Amethyst said, Garnet and Deoxys nodded their heads, “Alright Jake, but don’t you think we should tell them someday?” Pearl asked me. I nod and look at Pearl. “We will and most likely to the Princesses of this country first, you didn't have to worry about it on earth because humans were Not advanced enough to realize you were invading their planet in the first place, but these ponies are smart enough to believe that we are in invading force if they find out were aliens and it doesn't help the gems do exist in this universe for all we know they have been here before and the ponies have managed to push them away.” Everyone nodded their heads grimly, probably thinking of what would happen if someone did find out. “It’s already bad enough that two of them could move the sun and moon! That kind of power would be bad news for us.” Amethyst said,  I nod and sigh. “Well for now I think we should continue fix-” I am cut off as a portal opens up below Garnet and she falls through it. “Garnet!”  I turn just in time to see portals open below Amethyst and Pearl and they fall through calling out to me, then just as I turn to Deoxys a portal opens below me and I fall through it. I look up to see Deoxys rushing to me but the portal closes on her before she can grab me. “Where the hell is this taking me and my friends?!”  I just kept falling, I couldn’t even slow myself down until eventually, I fell right on the ground. I let out a groan as I watched the portal close, I also heard someone laughing. I look up and see a human girl, the girl had red hair, though more it was a bit of an orange color really, she was wearing a light blue shirt with dark blue sleeves with a dark blue cat that had the number ten on it, she also wore white pants that stop just below her knees, and she had a strange device on her wrist.  “Oh man! I can’t believe that actually worked!” the girl said, laughing again. I growl and stand up. “Where are my friends!?” I started turning pink, my eyes focused on the girl in front of me. “I already lost one family, I refuse to lose another!” “Oh relax, they’re right behind you.” the girl said, not even bothered by my anger, I looked behind me and saw the Gem, though it was a bit funny to see how they got in this world, Garnet was upside down while her cube-ish shaped hair kept her upright, Amethyst had her head stuck in the ground while Pearl seemed to be fine, though she was currently wielding her spear and pointing it at the girl. “GUYS!” I run to them and hug Pearl first then help Garnet stand upright and we pull Amethyst out of the ground. “You are all alright!” “Of course we are dude, I’ve fallen off of things before, so this was nothing.” Amethyst said, I sigh and then turn to the girl with a frown on my face. “Who are you and how did you get us here?” “Calm down, I just found this!” the girl said, holding up me and the Crystal Gems Token, “I found it laying around and I heard the message and decided to bring you guys here!” I look at it then calm down a little. “Oh you're one of those Displaced, Rick told me about.” “Yep! Names Gwen 10!” Gwen introduced herself, then she turned and ran, “I’d run if I were you!” confused we looked behind us and saw a very pissed mare charging at us. My eyes widen and I call out. “I don't know what's going on but for now follow the human.” and run after Gwen. Thankfully I am able to keep up with her and the gems easily. “Why is that mare chasing us?!” Amethyst asked Gwen, who laughed. “That’s the Rarity of my Equestria, and she hates the color green, so I decided to pull a small prank on her, and well, she might be a bit angry.” Gwen said, and I turned around to look at the mare and indeed saw that the mare did indeed look a bit like rarity, just completely green, even her clothes are green. I groan in annoyance and look forward and hold out a hand once I get close enough and bubble Gwen's left foot making her trip. Then I stop and say. “She is all yours Rarity just leave me and my friends out of it.” “Aw, now why do you have to do that? Luckily I know just the thing to get out of this!” Gwen said, pressing down on the device on her arm, and in a flash, some sort of creature stood in Gwen's place. “See ya!” the creature said, speeding away at speeds I didn’t where possible. I blink and watch her run away and grumble. “Oh great and she is gone..” I slowly turn to look at Rarity. “I hope you aren’t friends with that..that brat!” Rarity said,  I shake my head and sigh. “No we just met, she summoned us from another place and I think she is the only one that can send us home.” I get worried and look over at Garnet and she is shaking a bit but she gives me a thumbs up. “Good.” Rarity let out a sigh of annoyance as she looked at herself, “It’s going to take me weeks to get this out of mane and coat. Oh, where are my manners, names Rarity darling, owner of Carousel Boutique.” I hold out my hand. “Jake, and these are my friends, the crystal gems, Pearl, Amethyst, and Garnet.” I say pointing to each one. “Such lovely names, what brings you here to Ponyville?” Rarity asked me, accepting the handshake, “And did you say that brat is the only one that can send you home?” I sigh and nod. “To make a long story short, she summoned us, and the only way for us to go home is for her to send us home.” “I see, then it shouldn't be hard to find her, just follow the trail of chaos, though if you want to find her quickly, I’ll take you to Twilight, she might know a way to track her down.” Rarity said, I think about it and look to the others. “I think it's best if we find her as fast as possible, one of us was left behind and she will be worried.”  “Then follow me. The library isn’t far.” Rarity said, then proceeded to walk towards the town. I nod and we start following her. I look to the gems. “Keep the other Equestrias a secret, for now, we don't know if this Gwen has told them or not.” The gems nodded their heads, and as we were walking into town, we saw the chaos that it was in, ponies houses were flipped upside down, some had their manes styled into crazy things, and there even were doubles as well, causing much confusion. I heard Rarity sigh in annoyance, “Forgive the state Ponyville is in darlings, ever since that brat came here, it’s been one prank after another. They were small at first but then they started to look like this.” I frown and cross my arms not liking this at all. Then Amethyst speaks up. “Pranks are one thing but this place looks like I came through here.” “I sincerely hope you aren’t a prankster as well, one is bad enough.” Rarity said, “But if there were two I believe everypony would pack up and leave Ponyville.” “She is a prankster, but she knows when to stop, and Pearl and I can keep her in line while we are here,” I say pointing at Amethyst. “But how can a human girl do this? And how did she transform like that?” “Just try telling her to stop, she never does, she waits for us to clean up the first prank, only for another to be waiting, as for how she does this and how she transforms, it’s that blasted device on her arm. I don’t know much but Twilight should be able to fill you in.” Rarity said, just as we reached the library, “Word of warning though, she might be a bit upset after the girl's last prank on her.” I nod and walk to the door. “I will be careful but how bad can it ….be…” I opened the door to see that everything, every book, every piece of furniture was all on the ceiling due to some sort of pink slime. I look at everything one more time before looking to Rarity. “Ok under different circumstances I would be very impressed.”  “Rainbow Dash would say the same thing if she wasn’t stuck to the ceiling in her own home as well, and the brat managed to do this while Twilight was sleeping, how she didn’t make a sound is beyond me.” Rarity said, walking in, “Twilight, I brought some guests that need your help.” “I’m up here.” we all looked up and saw that Twilight had one foot stuck in the pink goo while she hung upside down.  I cover my mouth as I try not to snicker but Amethyst busts out laughing and falls over. “H-hold on, I'll try to help, Garnet mind giving me a lift?” I look and she nods, lifting me up and I put a hole near the goo and make a bubble shield around Twilight freeing her from the ceiling. Pearl managed to catch the mare before Twilight got out of her arms. “Thanks, now what do you need help with?” she asked us, then I noticed a piece of paper that had a picture of Gwen on it, though she was making a silly face, I grabbed it and realized it was a wanted poster. I frown and look at the poster closer, specifically the device on her arm, ’It looks familiar but I can't place it.’ I shake my head and look up to Twilight. “Well to put things simply we need Gwen to send us home.” “You need her to send you home? Good luck with that, if anything she might try and prank you instead of sending you home, but if you really want to go home then I know a spell that can find out where she is.” Twilight said, using her magic to pull a book free from the pink goop, “All I need is something of hers then I can find her.” I nod and look back at the wanted poster, that's when the memory clicked. “That's the Omnitrix!” I suddenly blurted out in shock.  “The what?” Amethyst asked, just before Twilight answered. “You mean the Gauntlet of the Trickster?” Twilight said, “That thing lets her change into different creatures that help her pull pranks on us. I think I got a book on her history somewhere.” I frown at the poster. “The Omnitrix is one of the most powerful tools in the multiverse, and it's in the hands of a child...guys..” I turn to face my friends. “We need to try to get through to her that what she has isn't a toy, if..when a power threat comes here for it she will treat it as a joke and die and so will everyone here.”  “Well we still need to find her, luckily, I found this!” Twilight said, holding up a piece of fabric, “It’s most likely from her shirt, so I can use this to find her then we can track her down.” Twilight said, then handed me a book, “You may want to read that, it has info on her so that way you can know what to expect.”  I look at the fabric then the goo and say. “You could also use the goo, it is from one of her forms.” I say then I open the book and start to read. ’Long ago, during the reign of Discord, the Spirit of Chaos and Harmony, a creature from another world appeared, and the first thing that they did was battle and defeat Discord, this hero was praised for their heroics, but it was revealed that they were just getting rid of the competition, and chaos once again spread across the land, though not as extreme as Discords.’ I read,  “I see she defeated discord, I don't know who that is but I want her side before I judge her, after all, history is written by the victor.” I say out loud and look up to see Pearl speaking with twilight and seem to be learning magic. Then I go back to reading. ’The creatures' pranks were harmless and made a few laugh, even the princesses, but eventually, they started to become much more dangerous and frightening, earthquakes that caused villagers to leave their homes in fear and monsters scaring travelers from land, sea, and air. The creature had made a name for themself, Gwen 10, the Goddess of Mischief and Monsters.’ I frown even more after that and think to myself. ‘Ok, the earthquakes could have been her as Waybig, and obviously the monsters are her different transformations but I don't understand why she would do this. I have to speak with her and try to understand her point of view before I fully judge her.’ I continue reading the last part, ’Having enough, the princess demanded Gwen to cease her destruction, or face punishment. But the so-called Goddess laughed at their threat and chose to continue her so-called pranks. The princesses having no choice but to use the Element of Harmony to incase her in stone. To this day, one could still hear the laughter of the child when visiting her statue.’ below the text was a picture of Gwen and the different aliens she could turn into, the picture of her was all black while she had blood-red eyes and jacko-lantern like mouth, apparently laughing as chaos and destruction was in the background. Seeing it kinda made me shudder a bit in fear and anger. I slam the book closed and glare at the grown ponies. “Ponies trapped her in stone....for a thousand years? Do you have any idea what that level of isolation can do to someone's mind?!” I yell looking at Twilight. “It’s not like the princesses had a choice, her so-called pranks were becoming more and more destructive and dangerous, she was lucky nopony died or got hurt, and they gave her a chance to stop.” Twilight said, I glow pink lightly. “I am going to speak with her, I want her side. For all I know she was fighting some bad guys when those ‘pranks’ were going off.” I turn to face the door. “I will be outside when the  spell is ready.” “Well, you don’t have to wait long.” Twilight said, the piece of cloth glowing purple and floating in the air. “Just follow that and it should take you to her.” “Thank you, come on guys.” I take the cloth and start following it out of town. We kept following the cloth until we reached the edge of the Everfree Forest, I then heard Pearl speak, “The Everfree? I can actually see why she would be in there, the ponies are afraid of that place and it offers a lot of cover.” I nod and look into the forest. “I agree, one of the reasons I chose to stay in the forest back home, let’s go find her, only defend yourselves. I want to talk with her first.” “Alright Jake, but if she tries to harm us, what should we do then?” pearl asked me, then Amethyst spoke up, “I know, you can tell us what you know of this Omnitrix, and we’ll come up with a plan to easily capture her without hurting her.” she said,  I shake my head. “Our best chance is to talk this out, if it comes to a fight then we have to run, especially if she turns into a form that looks like the night sky, that form can literally erase us from existence.” I say then take a deep breath and step into the forest. “Wait what?!” Pearl shouted out, before walking next to me, a scared look on her face, “She has a form like that?!” I nod then say. “Yes, but we are in luck as that form also comes with two other personalities one of aggression in one of compassion you need all three personalities to agree to do anything while in that form even move.” I heard Pearl let out a sigh of relief, “Thank goodness, I’d hate to have to fight that form.” “Yeah, an alien that can wipe us from existence? That’s awesome! If not totally terrifying.” Amethyst said. “She could still control just about any other aspects of reality with other various forms there's one that looks like a walking clockwork robot that can control time around itself there's one that looks like a meteor that can control gravity and I'm pretty sure that there's one that can control space.” I tell them as we keep walking. “But she has to touch that device on her arm to change, so if it comes down to a fight don't let her touch it.” The gems nodded their head in understanding, I saw Amethyst give a cocky smile, “How hard can it be to keep a kid from touching a button?” she asked, I look back at her. “Must I remind you of Onion? Don’t underestimate a human especially one that has the capability of magic.” “She can use magic?! Is there anything else you would like to tell us?!” Pearl asked me, eye twitching “I said she has the capability of magic. I don't know if she can use magic or not, if she is a copy of the original Gwen then she will have the capability of magic but she'll have to sit down and study how to use it.” I tell Pearl and move a branch out of my way. “I see, well let’s just hope she doesn’t know magic.” Pearl said, just as the cloth led us to a cave then stopped glowing as it fell, while a purple mist left it and into a bush, confusing me and the others. “Ok...this could mean one of two things.” I say as I turn to face the bush. “Either, she is in that bush, or she can use magic and is blocking the tracking spell.”  I moved towards the bush and moved the leaves and saw a strange device, it kinda resembled a Null Void cannon, except there was a container with different colored mists, most likely magic. On the side was the name, ‘Magic Absorber.’ ’Well...that's not good.’ I attempt to put it in a bubble but it sucks the energy from the bubble and it pops. “Damn, it isn't her but is one of her devices.” I stand up and look back at my friends.  “Interesting.” Pearl said, taking a closer look at the device, “It seems to take any form of magic and store it in this container, but for what reason I have no idea, check the area, we need to make sure there aren't any more of these things.” “But be careful about it, it could try to drain you too.” I say as I stand walking into the cave and open my senses. I walk into the darkness listening for any movement.  Then I heard something, it was faint but I definitely heard it, following the noise, and making sure there weren’t any more of those devices around, I eventually came into a large room, there were lightbulbs and a few chests around the room. I look around and sigh. “Gwen, I'm not here to fight you, I want to talk.” I call out hoping she is here. I heard laughter coming from a door that was next to a chest, opening it and walking in, I saw that Gwen was sitting on top of a pile of gold and all kinds of gems, a golden crown on her head as she gave a big smile upon seeing me. “A visitor, why if I had known I would have cleaned up my home!” she said happily. I look her over and see she is a bit unhinged. “Gwen, I don't know the full story of what happened a long time ago, but I can tell you this, if you keep destroying the lives of the ponies they will try to turn you to stone again, and if they Succeed this world will be left defenseless with no Omnitrix welder to stop the threats that will come for the Omnitrix.” Gwen gave a pout, “Aw you’re just like Tia, talking about responsibility and all that, well I already took care of Vilgax like a really long time ago. Want to know what I did?” she asked me, a smile on her face once again. I get a bad feeling but nod. “Yes, and you know he wasn't the only threat Ben faced.” “I know that now hush as I reveal what I did to Vilgax.” she said, “I turned him to stone as Alien X! Kinda like how the princesses did with that Discord guy, I also sent mister tentacle face to the null void, but don’t worry, I made sure he was in a safe place where he won’t get shattered. I’m not that crazy.” Gwen said, “Though I can see the irony when I got turned to stone as well.” I sigh a bit then nodded. “So all the destruction back a thousand years ago was you fighting bad guys?” “Oh no, none of those guys are here yet, it was only Vilgax.” Gwen replied. I raise an eyebrow but decide to get her to help us. “Tell you what, how about I tell you how to make a token so other displaced will call you and you could meet other people? And in return, you send me and my friends home.” “Awww, now why would I want to do that? You see I just got free and it’s been sooooo long since I’ve seen anyone else that wasn’t an anthro pony.” Gwen said, “We can play games and all sorts of things!” I sigh and rub my neck. “Look I need to defend my world, and you need to stop being so destructive, pranks are all well and good but you're destroying their lives. then again I guess what they say is true: either die a hero, or live long enough to see yourself become the villain.” “A villain? Moi?” Gwen asked in mock hurt, then gave a small laugh. “I’m no hero nor am I really a villain. I’m the Goddess of Mischief and Monsters.” I frown and start to glow pink. “Mischief does not involve destroying buildings with an earthquake or hurting innocent people, you say your not a villain but to me, you are no better than Eon.” “Oh, and are you gonna do something about it pinky?” Gwen asked me, giving me a smirk. “And besides, I made sure those earthquakes were just little tremors to scare them a bit.” I think about everything I know about the Omnitrix then remember something and it would work with an old skill I used to annoy my sister. “You are too strong for me to fight head-on, at least as long as you have that.” I point to the Omnitrix then reach up and squeeze my throat in a way to change my voice and in her voice I say. “Omnitrix begin self-destruct passcode 0010.” Though nothing happened, I tried again but still nothing, Gwen laughed, “You honestly think that stupid self-destruct feature would work? I had asked Azimuth to change it because Vilgax knew the same code when he used it against me when we first fought!” Gwen said, smirking. I frown and drop my arms. “Gwen I can't stay here, but if you send us home I'll do two things, let you scan me and I'll use my healing power on you.” “What you think something is wrong with me? Sure I caused a bit of destruction back then, but that was my own free will. Not from me snapping and going nuts.” Gwen said, “But I will scan you to humor you.” she held the Omnitrix close to me, letting a yellow beam scan me. Just as the beam passes over me I lift my hand and make a bubble over her Omnitrix. “Gwen I don't want to fight you or try to control you, I just want to hear you say you'll try to be less destructive and send us home.”  Gwen let out a groan of annoyance, “Geez, didn’t you see Ponyville? I’ve learned to keep my pranks from getting out of control, heck, I even let Tia and Lulu turn me to stone! I felt like I needed a bit of time to think.” she said, giving me an annoyed look. I look at her then turn slightly and lift my shirt and project an image from my gem, the image is the drawing of Gwen from the book I read. “This is how they see you…”  “What you don’t think I haven’t seen that before? I’m the one who wrote the damn thing in the first place!” Gwen said, walking over to her pile and pulled out a book, it was the same book that I had read not that long ago, “I mean someone had to write the truth, if the ponies did they would have said I was a spawn of Discord. Though the drawing might need a bit of work.”  I blink and drop my shirt. “I just don't understand you, if I had the Omnitrix I would be a hero for sure and sure as hell wouldn't hurt anyone that doesn't deserve it.” “Well, that’s the difference between you and me. A hero’s job is never done, someone is always in trouble, and I have to help them out, I never get any time to myself. But if I just spend my time pulling pranks and stuff then do hero work then so be it.” Gwen said, “But if you are so keen on having me go on the path of the hero then I guess I could do that instead.”  I nod with a smile. “That's all I ask, and no one says you have to solve all their problems, just step in when there is a threat their forces can't handle for example I will have to step in when the diamonds eventually find my world, but I don't plan on catching bank robbers or something.” Gwen laughed, “Oh geez you actually believed me? Man, you need to work on your gullibility dweeb.” she said, smiling,  I groan and cover my face. “You know what...do whatever you want but first send me and my friends home, or else.” I start glowing bright pink. “Oh fine.” Gwen said, pouting, then walked over to her pile of gold and gems before digging in it, she eventually pulled out my Token, “How exactly do I do that?” I relax a bit. “You say, our contract is complete, and if you want to make a token, take something that represents you, channel some of your energy into it and speak a creed, a small message for whoever picks it up.” I tell her then turn my head to the doorway and call out. “Guys we are leaving!” The Gems walked in, though they had their weapons out, as if expecting some sort of surprise attack, “So we all good? No fighting or anything?” Amethyst asked me, “Wow, you expect me to double-cross you and keep you here against your will so soon? That hurts my feelings.” Gwen said in mock sadness, she even wiped her eye as if there was a tear there. I sigh and cross my arms. “I didn't know what you would do when we came here, they are just being cautious, I'm sure you would be the same way without your Omnitrix.” “Not really, I can just study magic, I mean I got a few books in the other room.” Gwen said, smiling, “Oh well, guess this is goodbye, hope to see you guys again sometime soon, I still want to play games with ya.”  I nervously laugh and nod. “Yeah maybe someday and you can meet Ship, oh and a word of advice before we leave, if you get bored of this world just use alien x’s powers to travel to another universe.” “Nah, this one is too much fun, besides there are still some bad guys I want to have fun with.” Gwen said, smiling, I nod slowly. “I see, well please say the phrase and we will be on our way, oh and Twilight knows how to track you now.” Gwen let out a scoff, “I know, why do you think I had those Magic Absorbers placed all over the Everfree? I may be crazy but I’m not stupid.” she said, “Besides, let her track me, it just makes things much more fun!” and before I could say anything, she said, “Our contract is complete, bye!” she waved as portals opened above us and we were sucked into them again, I looked down and saw Gwen was waving with a smile, though I can see in her eyes the sadness she was trying hide. I sigh sadly I couldn't help her but soon the portal closes and me and the gem end up back in the castle library. “That was a strange experience, I want to help but I think what she needs is..company!” I yell as I get an idea. “Ship come here, I have a request!” “Ship?” Ship said as he hopped over to me, just as another portal appeared, this time not above or below us, thankfully. A small device fell out and the portal closed. I picked it up[ and saw it was a replica of Gwen's Omnitrix, it beeped as a projection of Gwen appeared, still smiling, “Hiya! I’m Gwen 10, Goddess of Mischief and Monsters, though I think I might change mischief to chaos as that's what I mostly cause, anyway! If you want to summon me for anything but hero work, then just turn the dial until you see me! But I might help you out with some hero work. Anyway, that’s all I have to say, bye!” the projection disappeared, I blink and smile. “That makes this easier, Ship this will be a hard request but could you make a copy of yourself and send it through this token to another displaced?”  “Ship.” Ship said, then turned into a puddle as a smaller piece of him moved away, before morphing into a smaller copy of Ship,  “Does that answer your question?” Amethyst asked me, I roll my eyes and look at Amethyst. “Making a copy is the easy part, the hard part will be having him travel through the void through a token.” I look back to the copy of Ship. “think you can do it, little guy?” The copy tilted its head at me, then bounced up and down, letting out a chirp in happy response, I looked at Ship and he nodded his head. I hold the token to the copy and smile. “Tell Gwen, that I hope having a friend helps her not feel so lonely.”  The copy let out a chirp as it jumped on the Token, then glowed a bit before disappearing. I blink and smile looking at Ship. “Did it work or do you know?”  Ship looked down for a bit before looking at me and shrugging, “Shp.” he said, I sigh but smile. “Well, I choose to believe it worked, thank you for giving part of yourself for this Ship.” I pet him then stand up and hold the token over to Pearl. “Pearl do you want to hold onto the token?” “Um, I think you should Jake, you did try and help her, so it’s only fair you hold onto it and, Amethyst, you have something on your back.” Pearl said, I looked over and saw that there was a piece of paper taped onto said gems back. I nod and put the token in my gem for now then pick the paper off her back and look it over, seeing it was a note from Gwen. ’Hi Jakey! You’re probably wondering how I got this note on your friend's back, well Alien X is useful wouldn’t you agree, but I did think about what you said, and the truth is, I actually did snap, those pranks were just ways to try and get my sanity back, but it got out of hand, I wasn't kidding when I said I let Celestia and Luna stone me, some small sane part of me knew that if I spent some time to myself my sanity would return, but it didn’t help, it just got worse. I wanted you to use whatever healing power you had on me but a small part of me just wouldn't let me. I guess I got too used to being insane that I didn’t want to be normal. I hope you can forgive me for my attitude, as my Token said, I might do some hero work, not just another Displaces Equestria, but in mine as well. Hope we can be friends the next time we meet. Sincerely Gwen. P.S, thanks for the new pet!’ Attached to the note was a picture of Gwen with the small copy of Ship, and some more writing as well, ’Also, my Token will let you change into a designated alien I had chosen for fifteen minutes, just thought it might be useful for others who need it.’ I chuckle and smile. “She got the little Ship and thanks me for trying to help, among other things.” I fold the note up. > Chapter 6 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hey there journal, it has been a crazy week, let's see, first I meet another Displaced, her name was Gwen and she is an Omnitrix user, the sad thing is she snapped a long time ago and started hurting ponies, but a part of her was able to see what she was doing and let her princesses turn her to stone to calm down, after my visit I got her token which is a working Omnitrix! So cool, anyway I also managed to send her a smaller copy of Ship so she wouldn't be so lonely and hopefully she can get better. I look up from my journal and look over the forest and see a purple dot, a orange dot, and a blue dot heading this way from town.  'Huh, I guess we will have company today.’ I look back at my book and continue writing. After that whole adventure I asked the gems to continue to study what they wanted but also try and reinforce some of the castle as I noticed it was falling apart. A few days later Applejack came to see me looking like she hadn't slept in weeks. She asked me if I still wanted to work and said her farm needs all the help it can get so I and a few of the gems went to help, turns out Applejack made a bet with her brother that she could clear the whole grove of apple trees by herself, and worked herself to near death. Fortunately Twilight got through to her and she agreed that she does need help, so me, Pearl and Garnet helped her and the other girls pick apples for a whole day. I smile and pick up an apple and take a bite out of it thinking back to how much fun it was even though it was hard work. I looked over and saw Ship taking a nap. “Hey, Ship we have a few ponies coming, mind telling Pearl?”  He lifts his head and nods. “Ship!” Then hops out of the room then I continue writing. After the Apple buck incident, things were a bit quiet besides Amethyst driving the ponies nuts with her pranks, then a griffon came to town and she was kinda mean from what I was told, even left during one of Pinkies parties. Thankfully I was at the castle training my powers for this whole incident. After that though, what came next was just annoying this arrogant blue unicorn came to town as part of a traveling magic show, she put on a pretty good show it was only when she started inviting ponies up to the stage just to embarrass them when things got annoying Twilight seemed to be nervous while her friends were getting aggressive. I tap my chin thinking back and frowning at the result. She told this story about how she defeated this giant space bear and unfortunately two of the younger audience members got it in their heads to go wake up said space bear to watch the fight in person! Ugh, me and the gems helped keep ponies from getting hurt as he came through town and it turned out that Trixie lied about defeating such a creature but thankfully Twilight had the knowledge and magical power to take care of the problem. Things should have been alright from there but then the whole town turned on Trixie blaming her for the attack! I was so mad I turned a bright pink and gave them a piece of my mind.  Unfortunately by the time I finished and the townspeople were ready to apologize to Trixie she had already fled town I don't know where she went. I just hope that she's safe and she's able to recover from losing her wagon. And that catches up on what has happened, and it seems Twilight is coming over so until next time. I close my journal and use it in my backpack before getting up and looking out the window to see Twilight, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash standing at the front door with Pearl. So I jumped down to meet up with them. “So what are you up to?” She asked me, an accusing glare on her face. “Nothing much, a bit of training, some writing, and lots of construction work to keep this place from falling apart.” I say with a smile completely ignoring Rainbow Dash's glare. “Just like I explained earlier when you rudely barged in.” Pearl said to the mare. I look to Twilight. “So what brings you to our home, miss Twilight?” I ask while putting my hands behind my head and leaning back starting to float a little but mostly just slowly falling back. “Well, I just got a letter from Princess Celestia that says that a thief with the same characteristics that you described of a gem was stealing technology from Manehattan.” Twilight said, handing me the letter.  I take the letter and read through it and frown. “This could be bad...Pearl please go ask the others who wants to come along on a gem hunt.” I look back at Twilight. “Thank you for telling me this, we will find out if this is a gem or not.” “And just how do you plan on getting there smart guy?” Rainbow Dash says smugly. “We will use the wor...p..pads...that don't exist here damn it." I facepalm and groan. “We really need to find a way to build those.” Pearl said, just as annoyed as me. I rub my chin trying to think. “Do you know any other way we can get there then?”  I ask Twilight. “Well I can think of a few ways, but our best bet would be teleporting, but that might leave completely exhausted.” Twilight replied. I shake my head. “None of us know how to do that or even know if we can.” I say to her and groan. “If only we had Greg's van.” “I mean I teleport us, not everyone here teleport.” Twilight said. “And who’s Greg?” I blink and rub my neck. “An old friend of the crystal gems, anyway if you think that's the best way to get there.” “Oh! Jake, what about that old-fashioned train I saw near the town?” Pearl speaks up with a smile. “Hey! That train is like totally new!” Rainbow dash says but we ignore her. “The train could work but it will take too long to get to Manehattan, by the time we get there the thief might have left the city.” Twilight said. I rub my chin and think. We can take the train back, we will teleport, Pearl, go get who wants to come along but tell them they will have to go into their gems, it should make things easier on Miss Twilight.” “Right.” Pearl said, leaving the room, “While she does that, I’m gonna prepare for the massive headache and nausea that will come.” Twilight said,  I think and frown. “ I want to say I'll help but I can't guarantee my healing powers will work.” “I’m sure I’ll be alright after we get there. And maybe after a bit of rest.” Twilight added, just as Pearl came back with Amethyst and Deoxys.” “Sup dude, Pearl told us what’s going on.” Amethyst said, I smile. “Good, I'll hold onto your gems while we teleport so there is less mass for Miss Twilight to teleport.” I say to them and turn to Twilight. “Just give us a moment and we will be ready.” “Alright, take all the time you need.” Twilight said, immediately covering Rainbow's mouth, most likely stopping her from saying anything bad. I nod and turn to the gems and hold out my hands. “Whenever you are ready.”  They nod and Pearl is the first as she starts to glow and is pulled into the gem on her forehead and I catch her. Next is amethyst as she glows and is pulled into her gem much faster. “Don't take too long ok kid!” and last was Deoxys who looks nervous but turns into light and is also pulled into her gem and once I have all three in my arms I step over to Twilight. “Fascinating, would you mind if I studied you later?” Twilight asked as I got closer to her. “Maybe, just keep in mind they are people just like you, whenever you're ready.”  I say as she puts a hand on my shoulder and Applejack and Rainbow dash grab her shoulders then in a bright flash we are teleported. The next thing I hear is a loud boom as we arrive and are thrown away from the destination point. “S...sorry it was harder than I thought.” Twilight said, holding her head.  I set the gems down and walk over and gulp hoping this works as I lick my fingers and rub her forehead under her horn. “Ew, what the hay are you doing!” Rainbow yells. “I have healing spit, so I’m using it on her.” I said, just as Twilight let go of her head. “Hey, my headache is gone now.” she said, then let out a sigh of relief, “Thank goodness, I was not wanting to spend my day with a headache.” I smiled seeing it worked then looked to the city. “So this is manehattan?” “Yep, a pretty big place, and kinda one of the busiest.” Applejack said, I nod and rub my chin. “Sounds like home, so where were the break-ins?”  “From the letter, we aren’t too far from the location.” Twilight said, going in one direction, while we followed her.  I look around seeing what the city looks like as we walk through its streets till we come to a store. I look inside to see it is a cell phone and tablet store to my shock. “You guys have this kind of tech?” “Well yeah, what did you expect? All of Equestria not having phones or something?” Rainbow asked me, I shrug and say. “Well, I've only seen Ponyville and that old castle. Can you blame me for thinking you guys are still in the steam age?” “You have to admit, he’s got a point there.” Twilight said, “Anyway, this is the place.” I look over to Pearl. “Pearl could you look around for clues and take Deoxys with you, she seems to be able to see things we can't, Amethyst will be with me and the ponies.” Pearl nodded as she and Deoxys began searching the area,  I look to Twilight. “Miss Twilight would you mind helping me question the store owner? They would most likely feel more comfortable with you nearby.” Twilight nodded her head, “Sure, anything I can do to help.” she replied as we inside. As soon as we walk inside a male unicorn comes up to us with a broom. “I'm sorry but we are closed please come back in a few days.” I hold up a hand. “We aren't customers, we are here to ask about the break-in last night. Did you see who broke yourself? And if so could you tell us about them?” “Well I didn’t really see them, only just a rough outline of them, got a weirdly shaped helmet or something, it was shaped like a triangle, and I think I also saw something shiny on their forehead.” the stallion explained. My eyes widen at the description and then I rub my chin thinking to myself. ‘Could it really be her?’ I look up at him. “Thank you for the information, did you see which way they went?” The stallion shook his head, “Nope, sorry, but they just disappeared. Couldn’t even find any footprints.” I rub my chin looking down. “Huh, well thank you, I'll see what I can do sir.” I turn and walk to the front door and look for Pearl. “I saw that look you got, you know who did this don't you?!” Rainbow accused me. “I have an idea of who it might be, but I'm not fully sure yet.” I tell her as I spot Pearl and Deoxys around the corner and head to them. “Jake, you’re not gonna believe this but we found some sort of claw marks on these walls as if something was trying to climb them, or hide from someone.” Pearl said, pointing at the marks on the walls. “I also found faint traces of a strange electrical field.” Deoxys added. I look at the marks noticing they are rounded and not sharp. “I think I know who it was but I want to make sure.” I turn to Deoxys. “Can you track the energy?” She nodded her head, “Yes though it’s faint so it might be a bit difficult.” she said, I nod and look at the ponies. “Me and the gems can handle this, go get some rest.” I then turned to Deoxys. “Ok lead the way.” Deoxys nodded and began to fly in one direction, me, Pearl and Amethyst following, we went through many twists and turns, occasionally stopping when Deoxys lost the trail, after all that, we eventually found ourselves at some sort of warehouse, though it looked to be abandoned for a long time. I look at them and say. “Ok, if my theory is right we don't need to fight, but just in case I'm wrong be ready, Pearl and Amethyst are upfront with me.” I start heading to the doors of the warehouse. “And what about me?” Deoxys asked me, “You will be behind us, but not hiding, we don't want to spook her.” I say and then push the doors open and look around hearing something bang in the warehouse.  We enter the warehouse and I look around and then call out. “Peridot are you here!?”  Pearl looks at me in shock. “You think she is here?” I nod. “Yes, how I have no clue though.” I continue listening for any response. I didn’t get any so we went in, walking by large stacks of abandoned crates, what was in them I have no idea, but someone obviously did, if the opened or smashed crates that littered all over the floor were any indication. “Geez, somebody needs to learn how to pick up after themselves.” Amethyst said, I shook my head but stopped when I heard something, the others heard it two as they immediately went quiet, following the noise we eventually arrived at what looked like a workshop, many different pieces of tech covered the table and the floor around it, then the noise appeared again.  “Peridots log 2-3-4, so far my more than legal activity has caught the attention of the law enforcement of this world, which means I may need to pack up or destroy everything in my workshop.” I looked and saw Peridot with limb enhancers, or what looked like them anyway. I chuckle and smirk. “Well that is definitely Peridot and it seems to be the same one that we know.” I whisper to the gems, then I say louder. “ Peridot of the crystal gems please come out your friends are here.” Peridot in response let out a shout as she looked around, “Friends? Prove it!” I tap my chin then look to Pearl and wave her forward. “Well how about the fact that I look like Steven, and Pearl and Amethyst are here with me? And the fact I know you used to work for Yellow diamond till you called her a clod.”  Peridot still looked around with a glare, before sighing, “Alright I believe you, only the Crystal Clods know about that.” she said, I smile and see her come out from around the corner. “Hello Peridot, my name is Jake, and you already know Pearl and Amethyst.” I say pointing at them. “Jake? But you look like Steven.” she said, giving me a confused look, “Did you perhaps hit your head and gained the human term, amnesia?”  I shake my head. “It's a long and complicated story but to put it in gem terms, think of me as a different cut of Steven, I have all of his powers and look like him but I don't have his personality.”  “I see.” Peridot said, holding her chin in thought,  I look her over and smirk. “I see you got your limb enhancers back, so what were you trying to do with all this stuff?”  I ask while looking over at the tech. “I was hoping to make a few things to help me survive in this world, like a communicator to contact any other Crystal Gems that are here, a few, ahem, weapons to fend off the much more vicious locals on this planet.” Peridot explained, I nod in understanding and say. “I see, well thankfully we have a home base to live, you're welcome to join us but I do ask that you don't attack the locals. Obviously you can defend yourself if they attack you first but nothing lethal please we're trying to make a good name for ourselves.” Peridot scoffed. “Obviously, I wasn’t referring to the equines, I was talking about the bigger, monstrous ones, specifically the flying reptiles that eat gems!” “Oh! Yeah they will be a problem but as long as we stay out of their territory we should be safe, but we should find a way to travel faster.'' I rub my chin and then look at Peridot. “You wouldn't happen to know how to make warp pads would you?” “Uh, no. But my Limb Enhancers should have the information we would need.” Peridot said as a screen appeared with blueprints to Wap Pads. I nod my head with a grin. “Well, if you want to be a part of our group would you mind working on some stuff for us? Warp pads are on the top of the list. Basically, you'd be the leader of our research and development squad.” Peridot froze after I said that, then she gave a big smile with stars in her eyes, “Me?! Leader?! Of research and development?! YES!!” she shouted happily. I smile and hold up a hand. “I'm glad you will join us but keep in mind, first, we don't have that much funding yet so supplies will be limited. Second, at the moment you are the only member of the R and D team. and third, anyone that joins gets respect, it doesn't matter if they are a gem or a pony, I don't want a repeat of the whole incident at the barn between you and Pearl.” This made both blush lightly. “Don’t remind me, and also, darn it.” Peridot said, frowning, “oh well, I’m still the head of Research and Development.” I smile seeing everything is settled. “Good, now then let's take this stuff back to where you stole it, then after you apologize we can head home.” “B-but do I have to? What if we get ambushed? What if the flying reptiles come?!” Peridot asked, I raise three fingers. “First, the ponies won't attack us for no reason, they are mostly pacifists.” I dropped a finger. “Second, the dragons don't live anywhere close to here, but if they show up we can work together to scare them off.” I dropped another finger. “and lastly if you stay here eventually the ponies will send their cops in and try to arrest you.” “Alright, you make very good points.” Peridot said, then stood up straight, “Lead the way please.” I looked at a sad Deoxys blink as I turned around. “Oh right and this is Deoxys, she is new and from this universe.”  “Hi.” Deoxys said, waving,  “Interesting, I have never seen a gem like you before.” Peridot said, looking at Deoxys “Well, like I said she is from this universe, and trust me when I say we are gonna need to step up our game to protect this world.” I say as we leave the warehouse. I look back and add. “Because homeworld exists here and there are even more Diamonds than back where you're from.” Peridot stared at me wide-eyed, “WHAT?!” she yelled out, I cover my ears from her yell and frown. “Yeah, but we only have to hide this planet from them they don't know where it is.'' I look to Deoxys. “right?” “Right.” she replied, nodding her head. I look back to Peridot. “Look at it this way, if it comes to actually fighting you could come up with ways of fighting them without destroying them.” I pat her shoulder. “Now let's head back.” “Alright, lead the way, Jake.” Peridot said,  We head back to the store with Peridot carrying all the stolen tech in a forcefield from one of her arms. Once we get there I pat her back and gently push her toward the grumpy unicorn. “Um, here is your inferior technology back organic.” I facepalm and groan. “Peridot try to be nicer.” I looked at the store owner. “I’m sorry sir, she doesn't interact with people that often. Please forgive her.” “It’s fine, I’ve dealt with rude ponies before, what’s another?” he said, I chuckle a bit and nod. “Thank you for being understanding.” I grab Peridot’s arm and start to leave.  “Now hold on, her rude behavior isn't a problem but she still stole and destroyed my merchandise, who is going to pay for it?” he asks. I groan and reach into my pocket and pull out the last of the bits Daring gave me. “I’m sorry sir this is all we have left.'' I give him fifty bits. The stallion looked at the bits then sighed, “Alright, this will do, just make sure she doesn’t do it again.” I nod. “Yes sir, it won't happen again, and I'll try to pay back the rest, just send the bill to the golden oak library in ponyville, under the name Jake.” The stallion nodded, “Alright, you’re good to go then.” I smile and say. “Ok, let's go, Amethyst mind going to find Twilight, Rainbow, and Applejack?”  “Sure dude, I'll be back in a flash!” she then ran out of the store. I shake my head and the rest of us walk out of the store, I look to Peridot as she speaks up. “So where are we staying at?” she asked me, “Somewhere with suitable defenses I’m sure.” “In a way, we set up a temple in the middle of a forest the ponies are afraid of, and it is also in the middle of an old castle we are repairing...hmm maybe you could make some of those little robots to help with that.” I start mumbling to myself as I think that over. “Hmmmmm, I believe I can help with the Flask Robonoids.” Peridot said, “And the location does sound like it’s well hidden, but just for our protection I will build ourselves some defenses.” “That is alright with me, but I do want warp pads to be on top of your list, that way we can set up a few to get from our home to the nearby town easier.” I say. I look over as I hear wings flapping and see Amethyst with the ponies coming back. “Who is that?” Twilight asked me, pointing at Peridot. I wave a hand toward her. “This is Peridot, she is a crystal gem like the rest of us.”  “Was she the one stealing?” Rainbow asked, giving the gem a glare, who glared back at her. “For your information, I was only stealing to protect myself, and call others any of my friends who might have ended up here as well.” Peridot said,  Rainbow’s glare gets sharper and she flies right into Peridot's face. “So you are a criminal! And we caught you!” I slap my face and groan as they start to fight. I look to Twilight. “What is the plan now, miss Twilight? She already Apologized to the store owner and I gave him the least of my money.”  Twilight held her chin in thought, “Well, she can at least do some community service to make up for her crime.” she said, I hold up a hand. “I plan on paying for what she took, no need for her to be punished. I was referring to how are we getting home?” “Right sorry, I thought that was what you meant, well I’m still a bit exhausted after teleporting us here, I think we should just take the train home.” Twilight said, I nod but then say. “That sounds like a plan but can you afford it? I mean there is..” I turn around and count everyone. “Eight of us here.” “Sure I can.” Twilight replied. “Alright if you're sure.” I look over at the others watching Rainbow arguing with Peridot. “Hey everyone we are leaving, and Peridot please stop fighting with the rainbow pony she is just overprotective of her friends.” “She started it!” Peridot said angrily. “Yes I know, and yes she is annoying but unless she actually hits you, ignore her.” I tell her then walk up to Rainbow and frown. “As for you, I think you need to be out in time out miss Dash.” I hold my hands out and make a massive bubble around her and push it over to Applejack. “Hey! Let me out of this thing!” Rainbow shouts angrily, punching and kicking the bubble. I look at Applejack with an innocent smile. “Miss applejack do you mind carrying her?” “Sure thing.” Applejack replied, “Besides, she was starting ta get on my last nerve.” I smile and leave the bubble with Applejack and walk over to Twilight and Peridot joins me and is scratching her chin. “Fascinating you do possess the same powers as Steven. Seems you were telling the truth.” “Um, what is she talking about?” Twilight asked me, I rub the back of my neck as we head for the train station. “She is referring to the leader of the crystal gems before me, he...he and I have the same powers, it would probably be more accurate for me to say I am a copy of him physically.” “I see.” Twilight said, I look over to Peridot and say. “If you have any questions, go ahead and ask, I'll try to answer them to the best of my ability.”  “I’ll be sure to keep that in mind.” Peridot said,  I nod and look ahead as the train station comes into view. “Hey miss Twilight, think you could help me make an appointment with whoever is in charge of ponyville?” “Sure, but why?” Twilight asked me,  “Well, we will eventually be putting something in your town to help us get to it faster and I want it out of the way, but also want it to be legal so ponies won't try to remove it.” I tell her before she steps up to the ticket seller. “Oh, well I’m sure she will help you out.” Twilight said to me, “Eight tickets to Ponyville please.” He smiles and nods giving her the tickets after taking her bits. I wait for her to come back then say. “That's good, and I appreciate this.” “No problem, what are friends for. We are friends right?” Twilight asked me. I smile and hold out my hand. “Sounds good to me, though I am surprised you want to be friends with me considering I'm younger than you.” “Hey, friends come in all shapes and sizes.” Twilight replied, “Doesn’t matter how young you are, a friend is a friend.” I smile at that and nod. It isn't long before the train pulls up and we all get in, but I laughed when the conductor wanted to put Rainbow in with the luggage. We all get out seats, Applejack with Rainbow Dash, Amethyst, and Deoxys together near the windows, and me, Twilight, Pearl and Peridot sit together. Then I get nervous when Twilight pulls out a scroll and quill.  “What ya doing?” I asked the mare, hiding my nervousness. “Well I thought now would be a good chance for me to ask you some questions about your species.” she says with a big smile that makes a squeaking sound. “Oh, alright.” I said, letting out a small sigh, 'Why was I so nervous?’ She smiles and gets ready to write. “Great, let's see, the first question I have is where are you from?”  Before I can answer, Peridot speaks and tells the truth. “We come from a planet far away from here in another galaxy and if what Jake has hinted to we are also from a completely different reality.” Twilight stared at me in shock as I facepalmed, “You’re from another planet?!” Twilight shouted, thankfully none of the other passengers heard, but Applejack and Rainbow did. I sigh and nod. “Yes, we are, though I wanted to keep that private till we could tell this country's leaders.” I say adding a small glare to Peridot. “Whoops.” Peridot said, “In my defense, you should have let me know before we got on the train.” I sigh and nod. “Yeah, I should have, anyway.” I look back at Twilight. “Yes we are aliens.” “That is amazing!” she said excitedly, smiling so big another squeak sound was heard. I blush a little and rub the back of my neck. “Yeah I can see why it's such a big deal, but please keep this quiet till we settle in and tell your leaders.” “Oh don’t worry, we won’t say a word. And I’ll make sure Rainbow Dash doesn’t either.” Twilight said, then got in my face, “What is your planet like? What level of technology do you guys have? Do you guys have leaders who move your sun and moon?” I quickly cover Peridot's mouth before she can say anything, then I think for a moment before answering. “Well..let’s see, in order of your questions, when you ask about our planet, I assume you mean the original homeworld of all gem kind, it is not a nice place or at least it wasn't before Steven helped it become more peaceful.”   I let go of Peridot's mouth and continued. “As for your second question, Pearl or Peridot would be better to answer that, and gems do have leaders but they don't move any suns or moons, as where we are from all of them move on their own thanks to gravity.”  I rub my neck shyly as I show my gem. “I am technically one of our leaders known as a diamond.” Twilight let out a gasp, “No way! All this time I’ve been talking to one of the leaders of an alien race!” I chuckle nervously. “I know it is a big thing but honestly my political power ends with the crystal gems, besides the homeworld I am supposed to rule is in a different reality.” “Oh.” Twilight said, a bit disappointed but continued asking me questions, “So what are the Gems like? Are they a peaceful race or something?” “I have a few questions for you as well.” Peridot said, “First off, what is the local area like? Second, what is the planet like as well? Third, How do the ponies get by on such primitive technology?” Twilight seems to be surprised but she clears her throat and answers. “Well, where we are headed to is a small town called ponyville, it's a nice small farming village that is located next to the Everfree forest. It is a peaceful place..most of the time, and it is where me and my friends live.”  She is writing or drawing something as she speaks. “As for the planet itself, we don't know everything about it yet but we do know that Princess Celestia raises and lowers the sun and moon every day and night.”  I clear my throat and butt in. “Well for the past thousand years that was the case but now her sister Princess Luna is back and is going to start moving the moon.”  “Two beings capable of moving celestial bodies of that size? impossible, it's not scientifically possible.” Peridot says with a dismissive wave of her hand making her ‘fingers’ float past Twilight’s view. “It is very possible. They are the princesses of the sun and moon for a reason, they are very powerful Alicorns, which are considered gods.” Twilight argued, “Please, the only way for them to move such great celestial bodies is if they were actually smaller in size.” Peridot said, I look between Twilight and Peridot and get a great and terrible idea. “Say Twilight I was wondering, how would you like to be a part of the crystal gem’s R&D team?”  I ask, trying not to smirk. “Really?!/Are you crazy?!” both of them said at the same time,  “She can’t join!” Peridot said to me, getting in my face before Twilight pushed her away, “Of course I’ll join! The chance to work with new possibilities of technology is something I have always dreamed of!” she said happily. I smile and then point to Peridot. “But she is the one in charge, so you have to listen to her when it comes to gem tech.” Then I point to Twilight. “And Twilight will be our magic expert.”  They look at each other then Peridot speaks up. “But she will know nothing about our tech and it will slow me down!”  “Hey I am a fast learner and could be helpful!” twilight says. “Hey listen, both of you, Peridot we need a local to work with because there may be some materials that can only be found on this world, and she would probably know more about them than us, second she may be able to get us some royal funding since she's the student of one of the princesses.” I turn to Twilight. “As for you, I will warn you now Peridot is very professional and will try to do things by the book. She doesn't have much experience working with other people and will most likely complain a lot until you can catch up with her but once you impress her you'll be on her good side.” “I highly doubt that.” Peridot said, “I don’t have a good side.” I look at her with a flat look. “Three words, Lapis, and meep-morps.”  Peridot opened her mouth to say something but closed it with a growl. “Alright you got a point there, but I still won’t like working with her.” “Just give her a chance, trust me when I say, I see both great and terrible things from the two of you.” I say with a smile. The two glared at each other but eventually both let out a sigh, “Alright, I’ll give her a chance, but only one chance and that’s it.” “Fair enough, and Twilight I would like to get a few basic magic books when we get to town please.'' I ask her as I lean back and pull my whole backpack out of my gem and open it and pull out my Tablet. “Peridot you can BORROW my tablet if you want but I want it back later.”  “But of course Jake.” Peridot said though I had a feeling I might need to have Ship put a tracker in it in the future. I nod and sit back to relax but then remember something and speak up. “Don't watch any videos on that till you are at the temple ok?”  “But why?” she asked me, tilting her head in confusion. “Because there will be a lot of questions after you see what I'm talking about, and I want to show all the gems.” I say then close my eyes for a nap. “Jake. Wake up, we’ve arrived at Ponyville.” I heard Deoxys say as I opened my eyes. I yawn and stretch as I stand up. “Alright, I'm up, I'm up.” I look around seeing everyone getting up and ready to leave the train. “That was a nice nap, where is Peridot?” “She got off as soon as the train stopped.” Pearl said, I raise an eyebrow. “Please tell me you at least have Amethyst following her, I trust her and all but I don't want her getting lost.” I follow everyone out and off the train. “Don’t worry she is just waiting for us.” Deoxys said, and sure enough, Peridot was leaning against the station, tablet in hand. I smile and am about to say something when I hear someone say. “There you are! We have been looking for you all day.” I turn and see Daring in her disguise next to an older-looking mare with a whitish-gray coat and a white and purple mane. “Oh um hello miss D...A.K. Yearling, sorry I had to take care of something but it's handled now.” I say with a smile. “It's better, anyway I’d like you to meet someone.” she said, “This is Twilight Velvet.” Twilight Velvet steps forward about to say something but then Twilight Sparkle butts in. “mom? What are you doing in ponyville?” Twilight Velvet rolls her eyes with a smirk. “Sweetie, it's rude to interrupt somepony. Now then, as my friend said I am Twilight Velvet.” She shakes my hand and I smile. “Nice to meet you, so you’re Twilight's mom?” I asked her, She smiles and nods. “Yes I am. I am a bit surprised you two know each other but this is a small town, but my friend miss A.K. Yearling told me you have a few stories you wish to sell here in Equestria?”  I nod and grin then look to Peridot. “Hey Peridot, I need my tablet back for a bit.” I hold my hand to her. After some hesitation, she gives it back to me and I turn back to Twilight Velvet. “Let's go talk about it.” “Sure, is there somewhere you wanted to talk?” she asked me, I shrug and point to the town. “How about the library? It's quiet, calm and a bit private.”  Twilight Velvet nodded, “Sure.” she said, I smile and turn to Pearl. “Pearl please show Peridot around and teach her what you've learned about this country while I am talking with Miss Velvet.” I take a step but then turn back and walk backward. “Oh and Peridot make a list of whatever you need to make the warp pads.” “Alright.” Pearl and Peridot both said, before walking away. I smile and after putting my tablet away I put my hands in my pockets as I follow both Twilight's to the library. “So you seem awfully young to be a writer, do you even have your mark yet?” Miss Velvet asks me. “I looked at her confused, “Mark?” I asked her, “Your cutie mark dear.” she explains while showing me her mark on her shoulder. Three purple stars in a triangle. “It represents your special talent.” I shake my head. “My people don't get those ma'am.” I lift my shirt just enough to show my gem. “I am what's known as a gem.” “Interesting.” Twilight Velvet said, I shrug and see the tree ahead. “Yes I suppose it is. So you help miss Yearling with making her stories?” “Well I Write the stories that Yearling comes up with, so I am the writer but I’m not the one who comes up with the stories.” she replied. I nod and rub my chin. “Well I have a few stories that would be good as books but at least one series that would be best as a comic book, or tv show if you guys have television.” I say as we enter the library.  “I can’t wait to hear about them.” Velvet said, I smile and pull my Tablet back out of my gem and open up my saved tv show. “Then I'll start with a show called, the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers.” I start the first episode and turn it to face her. After the episode ends I close the screen and smile at her. “As you can see it is a team of five teenagers that are given powers to protect the world from evil. Any questions?” Velvet held her chin in thought, then shook her head, “Not that I can think of.” I nod and smile. “If you have a way to copy data I can give you the whole first three seasons of the show, of course I don't mind if you change a few things like turning the humans into ponies or any other number of beings.” I told her. She nodded her head as she pulled out a tablet and cord, “With this, I can link to your tablet and copy the data.” “Cool, I just hope it works.” I give her my tablet. “If you want you can copy the files on what's called Star wars too. They are long movies and a few tv shows but they are super cool.” “Alright, I’ll take your word for it.” Velvet said, connecting the two tablets with the cord, and after a few minutes, she handed me my tablet back. I take my tablet back and set it down. “So what else do we need to talk about, or are we done?” “Well, we could have a friendly talk if you want.” Velvet suggested, “Sure, do you want to ask any questions of me?” I ask as I look over then chuckle seeing Twilight sparkle fangirling over Daring. “Oh, just a few like how are you doing and such.” Velvet said, “Also, who were those fur women that were with you? Your guardians or is one of them your mother?” I scratch my neck. “Well yes, they are my guardians more so the tall one with a gem on her forehead. As for how I'm doing I am fine so far just getting used to a new ...country.” “I see, from the way you said country I get the feeling that it was so sudden to be here?” Velvet asked,  I nod and sigh. “You can say that, me and the gems just suddenly found ourselves here, more specifically the old castle in the forest nearby and that's where someone we both know found us.” I say looking at Daring as a hint. Velvet nodded her head, “I see.” she said, “It must have been quite shocking to find yourself in a new location all of a sudden.” I nod and close my eyes. “There was a bit of panic for a bit but then we set up a home and I met some new friends.”  “That’s good to hear, making new friends is a great way to handle being in a new place.” Velvet said, smiling. I nod smiling. “It is, thankfully Miss Yearling told me about you and set this meeting up so I can start making bits. Speaking of, out of curiosity what kind of pay well each of us get?” “Hmmm well, normally I take 60% of the income from the sales but seeing where you are living and you have so much material to convert and sell, then how about I give you 75% while I take 25%?” she tells me and offers me.  I nodded my head, “Alright.” I said, She smiles and shakes my hand and she looks at her phone. “Oh dear, I need to get back to Canterlot, I'll send the first copy of the stories I finish here first.” she turns to twilight. “Twilight sweetie be a good girl I have to go now.” she then gets up and waves as she leaves Yearling following shortly after.  “Well, I’m gonna head back home.” Jake said, walking out of the library. “Wait for me Jake, I want to speak with Pearl a bit before nightfall.” twilight says as she follows me.  “Alright.” I said as we continued to walk towards the Everfree, Twilight looking nervous. “I still don’t understand how you can stand living in this place, it’s unnatural.” Twilight said, “Maybe to you, but everywhere I've been is like this.” I start saying then put a bubble shield around us as a cockatrice walks by and glares. “Minus the monsters.” Twilight shuddered, “I’m not gonna get used to looking at it without it turning me to stone.”  I rub my neck. “Yeah I can see how scary it would be, thankfully my shield seems to filter out its harmful magic.” “Interesting, you are just full of surprises aren’t you?” Twilight asked me. “I suppose, the first time it happened I didn't even know it had harmful magic.” I say as we continue walking and then I look at her. “Say twilight can you tell me about Celestia?”  Twilight smiled after I asked, “She’s the most amazing pony ever known! She’s kind, caring, and always provides us with the sun.” I nod and rub my chin. “She does sound nice but I mean as a leader what is she like? Does she talk things out with other leaders or does she um...handle them before they become a problem?”  She taps her chin thinking for a while before she smiles. “Well I know she has maintained peace for a thousand years, so she must be good at taking care of any problems before they come up.” I pale a little as I picture a black ops assassin squad under her control but shake my head and snap out of it as we come up to the castle. I see Pearl and Peridot arguing about something. “I'm telling you we need to focus on the supports before we start cleaning!” “But the castle is so filthy! Can we clean up room by room?” Pearl says in a whining way.  I speak up, breaking them up. “I agree with Peridot, no point in cleaning a room if it collapses on us.” “Yes, thank you Jake.” Peridot said, then looked at Pearl smugly. I roll my eyes and flick Peridot’s arm. “Just because I agree with you doesn't give you the right to be rude, plus you and I need to talk. Did you make that list?” I ask as Twilight moves over to Pearl and they start talking. “Ah yes, the list, I have right here.” Peridot said, pulling out a piece of paper and handing it to me. I look it over and see a lot of it seems like advanced technology, probably what is what's available on this planet. “Damn it. I don't think this world has the tech we need.” Twilight looks over and then comes over reading over my shoulder. “Huh I don't know what those are but thanks to the descriptions I think we can use magic for most of that.” I heard Peridot scoff, “Magic? Please everyone knows magic isn’t real, science is much better and more realistic.” Twilight glares and then she smirks as her horn lights and lifts Peridot off the ground and spins her around slowly then sets her down. Then twilight's horn glows even brighter as she lifts up all the rubble around the entrance then it flies around the wooden door before all fusing together to its original state, almost like new. “Magic is real, from simple levitation to complete transmutation and restoration.” Peridot shook her head. “Please, I can do the same thing with science.” Peridot said, her limb enhancer changing and shooting a beam at Twilight, she began to sin the mare and finally put her down. "Besides, one can easily do that if they unlocked more of their brain power, it’s called telekinesis brainpower." I get between Twilight and Peridot as they start to butt heads. “Hey hey! I said Twilight is in charge of the magic side of the R&D team, and you should at least give her a chance, if her magic can replace some tech then all the better. Besides this world is unlike any that any gem has come across before, call it manipulation of energy, or any other number of things if it makes you feel more comfortable but what Twilight does is incredible considering she's doing it without the help of technology.” Peridot crosses her arms. “Fine.” she said.  I look between Peridot and Twilight. “How long do you two think it would take to make what you need to make a warp pad?” “Hmmmmm, at least a day." Peridot said. “But if we keep arguing then a week.” I sigh and cross my arms. “Look, I want you to work together, science and magic working together can do amazing things. So here's what is going to happen, Peridot you are gonna listen to Twilight when she talks about magic, study it in your spare time if you have to understand it with a scientific mind set.” Then I look at Twilight. "Twilight, I ask you to not try to fight with Peridot, you have to understand we come from a world where science is everything and magic is extremely limited.” The two glared at each other, then Peridot held her hand out. “I shall agree to Jake's suggestion if you are willing to do the same.” “Of course I will.” Twilight replied, and grabbed her hand and the two shook hands. I sigh in relief. “Good, now that that is settled I'd like you two to start right away.” I say then remember something and look to twilight.  “Oh um and your friend spike I’m sorry but keep him away from our home.” “Why?” She asked me. “Well, remember how they go into their gems? Well, I don’t want him to accidentally eat one of them if they are in their gem.” I answered. “I’m not saying he will, it might happen though.” Her ears folded down and she looked upset at first then thought about what I said. “R-right, I guess it's better safe than sorry. I'll be sure to tell him.” I smile and smirk then look at Peridot. “Well have fun with your project, and don't overwork her. Keep in mind she is organic and will need sleep and food.”   “Yes yes yes. I know very well how organics work.” Peridot replied. “Follow me Twilight.” With that, the two left. I sigh and smile weakly at Pearl. “I wonder if Steven ever had trouble keeping up his smile.” I joke lightly and chuckle then say. “If it's not too much trouble can you find a spot for a warp pad near the temple that is also well defended from wildlife and clean it up so it will be ready when they finish one?” “Sure.” Pearl said, nodding her head. “Great, I am gonna go have some lunch then maybe practice with the Omnitrix some.” I wave and head to the temple door, my gem glowing and the door opening.  > Chapter 7 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- I looked at the Omnitrix that was also Gwen's Token, if it is anything like she said it was, then I have to be careful it didn’t get in the wrong hands, but another thought popped up. “Let’s see what you can do.” I said as I latched it to my arm. “New wielder detected. Synchronizing Pseudo Omnitrix to current wielder.” it said in a voice similar to Gwen's before it changed color, the hourglass becoming pink, the black parts of it becoming blue while the rest turned yellow. “Synchronization complete. Pseudo Omnitrix is now ready for use.”  “Cool, it changed to my new color scheme.” I chuckle and push the button to bring the face plate up and the hourglass turns and starts showing a 3-D hologram of a tall plant-looking humanoid, that is also pink. “Oh cool, it is kinda like the second model.”  “Jake, are you in here?” I heard Pearl say as she walked into the room. “Oh, there you are, I was just wanting to see how you-isn’t that the Gwen girls Token?” “Yeah it is, it also works like her Omnitrix too, I was about to try it out. Want to watch?” I ask with a smile.  “Alright, but only to make sure you are safe.” She said. I roll my eyes with a smile and turn the dial checking all the aliens it has. "Let's see here, Swamp fire, Humungousaur, Clockwork, Big chill, Gravattack, Grey matter, XLR8, Diamond head, Wildmutt, and Way big huh thats all. I kinda expected more.” I named off as I see each one and then look up at Pearl. “So who do you want to see first?” “Hmmm, how about someone like that Big Chill, he sounds safe.” Pearl said. I chuckle and nod. “Alright, now I don't have to do this, but I am a bit of a nerd so I'm gonna do what Ben does and call out the name.” I pick out Big chill and push the dial down with a finger and in a flash of pink, I am standing as Big chill and extend my wings shouting out in a whispering voice. “Big chill!”  I grin and look around not finding a mirror. I take a breath and blow out ice making a reflective surface high enough that I can see my whole body in. I was the same blue color as Big Chill but when my wings formed a cloak around me, I saw that they were color-coded to match my clothes with a star where my chest is, and I saw that my eyes were pink.  I heard Pearl give a shout as I looked at her. “Ok, I was not expecting you to turn into a giant bug!” She said. I make slow wheezing chuckles making fog form from my breath. “Pearl, Big chill is what's known  as a Necrofriggian, he is more than a bug.” I wave my hand at the ice mirror. “As you can see I can breathe air so cold it freezes on contact with anything.” “T-that is interesting Jake.” Pearl said, still a bit scared. “Is there anything else he can do?” “Well, there is one more thing." I said, going intangible and going through Pearl, causing her to freeze up in fear when I did. I put a hand to my mouth. “Oops, sorry Pearl I guess that was too much for you.” I say then tap my chin. “Ah, this should work.” I lean close and say in her ear. “Amethyst is causing a mess in the library.”  She immediately snapped out of it with a shout. “Amethyst!”  I chuckle and wave at her. “How about I see if I can change into something else?”  “Yes, please.” Pearl said, shaking her head. “Hmmm, how about that accel-er-ate one?” I nod and open my wings and reach up to the Omnitrix on my chest and turn it till it clicks. “Ok, let's hope this works.'' I slap the Omnitrix and in a flash of pink, I'm changed into Diamond head. “XLR...huh? Oh great this Omnitrix miss dials too, Pearl this is Diamond Head.”  I look over at the ice mirror and see I am the same color as Ben’s Diamond head but my clothes are changed to mostly blue with a yellow star on my chest around the Omnitrix and pink highlights around my arms. “Huh, not bad.” I hold up a hand and sharpen it into a sword-like form. “Amazing. He looks like a more advanced form of a Gem, and you said his name is Diamond Head?” Pearl asked me. I nod and smile changing my hand back to normal. “Yeah, I believe the species name is Petrosapien. Like gems they are made of crystals but unlike gems.” I tap my chest with a fist. “They are completely solid, no hard light bodies for them.” “Amazing!” Pearl said. “This form is by far the most amazing.” I laugh a bit and hold up my arm. “Hey, why don't I show you what it can do, make a holo Pearl, and I’ll fight it.” “Very well.” Pearl said, her gem glowing a bit before a Holo Pearl appeared, sword in hand. I smirk and turn one arm into a sword and the other into a shield. “Oh, there's one more thing about this form I should tell you about.”  “And what’s that Jake?” Pearl asked me as the Holo Pearl's eyes went red. I block holo Pearl's sword with my sword arm then change my other arm to resemble broken shards and aim at her face and fire shards through her. “It can fire projectiles!” “Incredible! This form is simply amazing! Sure it lacks the solid light that gems use for our bodies, but still!” Pearl said, smiling. “Is there anything else this form can do?” I jump over holo pearl and put my hand on the grown and make crystals grow out of the ground around holo pearl trapping her. “There is that.” Pearl was at a loss for words, staring in shock at what I had just done. “I think I may need to sit down.” She finally said. I chuckle and stand up fully while reaching up for the Omnitrix. “How about I show you one last form, this one completely organic.”  I tap the bottom half of the hourglass on the Omnitrix and in a flash of pink I am back to me. “Oh good that function works, that will save energy.”  I then activate the Omnitrix again and select Swamp fire and press the dial down and in a flash of pink, I am in a new form. This one was mostly pink. I look over at the mirror and see my head is mostly pink with blue framing the face and one yellow highlight. “Huh, that's kinda nice looking.” Just as I say that a sword goes through my chest where my heart would have been. “Jake!” Pearl shouted in fear, probably thinking I just died.  I look down at it then grab it with one hand and spin around swinging the other arm right through holo pearl’s head then I hold my hand there. “Yield, you have lost.” A fire starts in my hand.  The Holo Pearl then disappears as I looked at Pearl, who had a shocked look on her face. “B-but how?” “I can regenerate even limbs. Swamp Fire is a difficult alien to kill.” I explained. “Amazing, it reminds me of some of Rose’s plants.” She says looking at me as I pull the sword out. then the Omnitrix starts to beep and flash red.  “Oh looks like I'm out of time.” In a flash of red, I'm back to myself. I look over at Pearl. “Any questions?” “Well for one, why did it beep and is red now? Also.” Pearl said. “Can you show me what other forms you have later?” I look at the Omnitrix. “Well, the Omnitrix has hundreds of safety features one of which is a timeout function. after a certain amount of time, the wearer will automatically return to their normal form, and then the Omnitrix will be in recharge mode and that's why it's red and the beeping as a warning that I was about to transform back.” I explain as best as I can. “I see.” Pearl said. “And you said it has hundreds of safety features? Why so many?” “Oh well, when I say hundreds I just mean an unknown amount and most likely because the universe in which this device originally comes from, the original Omnitrix that is, is extremely dangerous and a few of the safety features are for their protection of the where for example one of the safety features is the Omnitrix will automatically transform the wearer into a species that can survive a life-threatening situation.” I tell her and see something reflected in the faceplate of the Omnitrix and look at the sky and see a black cloud.  “What’s that?” Pearl asked, looking at the black cloud as well. “Dude!” Amethyst shouted out as she ran into the room. “There’s a big black cloud in the distance!” I rub my chin. “I'm gonna go get Twilight and head back to town to see if they know what's going on. Keep Ship nearby. I'll tell you if I need you.” I tell them then head off to the temple door. “Alright dude, be careful out alright? And save me some bad guys to beat up!” Amethyst said to me. I get to the door and open it to the lab and go inside seeing Twilight and Peridot both hard at work. “Twilight, mind taking a break to come to town to check something with me?” “Sure thing Jake, I needed a break anyway.” Twilight said. I look over to peridot. “Sorry if I end up slowing you two down.”  “It’s fine Jake, like Miss Sparkle here, I needed a small break as well.” Peridot said. “Alright, stick near the others though just in case I need back up.” I say then turn to follow twilight out of the castle and smirk at her. “So she is already calling you Miss Sparkle, I'm guessing you have started to bond.” “Eh, it’s a work in progress.” Twilight said, seeing the black cloud. “What the?!” “Yeah, that's what I want to check out. I'm gonna try something.” I say and make lots of hexagonal shields as platforms that go up over the forest trees. “Let's walk over the forest.” Twilight nodded as we walked on the platforms, easily reaching Ponyville in no time. I lowered the last platform to the ground and held my head. “ok, note to self, practice that more often and don't use it in combat yet.” I shake my head and point at the library. “Let's go.” “Right, I need to find Spike.” Twilight said as we ran to the library. Once we get there we find all of her friends and Spike all here and Rainbow and Spike both run up to us. Spike hugs Twilight. “Twilight your back!” he says as twilight hugs him back. “Where did you take her you no good-” Rainbow gets in my face before Applejack pulls her back. “Easy rainbow, remember what we talked about.” Applejack says and keeps Rainbow from tackling me. I cross my arms and sigh. “We were at my home, and she was helping me make something, but I saw the black cloud.” “Yes, we did as well darling, it’s kinda hard not to miss that dreadful thing.” Rarity said. “Oh that reminds me, the princess sent this.” Spike gives Twilight a letter and she reads it for a minute before gasping.  “Girls, it is a dragon that is making all that smoke and if we don't stop them it will cover all of Equestria for a hundred years.” She said with panic in her voice.  I raised an eyebrow, but before I could open my mouth, she continued. “And she wants us to go stop them, I'll make a plan, you girls go get ready to go.” “Um, Twi? I believe you forgot about Jake.” Applejack said, pointing at me. “What? Oh he is too young he shouldn't come with us.” She says to Applejack but I frown and tap my foot. “Must I remind you that I'm stronger than I look?” I shake my head. “I'm going whether you allow it or not.” “Not even you can handle a dragon.” Rainbow said. “You’d be lunch faster than you landed a hit on it.” I scoff and smirk. “I have a few new surprises to handle bigger opponents.” I say and pull out my phone. “So like Miss Twilight said, go get ready.” I then send a text message to Ship telling him what's going on. “Don’t tell us what to do.” Rainbow said, before flying off. I rolled my eyes, a bit annoyed. I roll my eyes at her attitude but lean against the library's wall. “I'll be here, I got all I need.”  “AlrightJake, we won’t be long.” Twilight said as she and the others went to prepare for the dragon, a few minutes later, they all came back with supplies and such. “Alright here is the plan.” Twilight starts while looking at a map while walking in front of her friends. “I’m mapping out the fastest route, but we all got to keep a good pace if we expect to make it up the mountain by nightfall.” “M-mountain?” Fluttershy softly whimpers. I seem to be the only one to hear her. “The dragon is in that cave at the very top.” Twilight says pointing at the mountain in the distance.  “Looks pretty cold up there.” Applejack says. “You bet it is. The higher you go, the chillier it gets.” Rainbow adds faking a shiver. “Good thing I brought my scarf.” Rarity says pulling a pink and white scarf out of her bag. “Oooh! Pretty!” Pinkie says looking at the scarf. Rainbow chuckles while saying. “Oh, yeah. That’ll keep you nice and cozy.” in a sarcastic way. I see Fluttershy gulp before walking up to Twilight. “Um, excuse me. Twilight? I know you're busy but-” “Uh-huh. Well, we could go this way.” Twilight seems to be talking to herself not paying attention. So I decided to look over Applejack.  “Thanks for keeping Rainbow out of my hair.” I said to her. “Ah no problem sugar cube, if anything she needs to work on her attitude.” Applejack said. I nod a bit then look over to see Twilight is finishing up. “Well looks like it's time to go.”  I lift my arms behind my head and forget about my colorful Omnitrix.  “Alright come on.” Twilight said as we followed her. We walk for close to half an hour and soon we start walking a path up the mountain. After a bit, we get to a rockslide zone. My Omnitrix suddenly turns pink and starts beeping loudly causing the rocks around us to start shifting. I quickly put a bubble around it but it's too late a whole rockslide starts happening. “Shit move!” “I blame you for this!” Rainbow said as we ran. “Oh shut up and run! “ I say jumping away from some falling rocks then I see a huge boulder heading for Fluttershy so I bubble my fist and jump up punching it into pieces. Once the rockslide is over I pant and we get to a safer spot. I look at my wrist where my bubble is vibrating barely able to hold in the sound. “What caused that rockslide?” Rarity asked. “It sounded like beeping?” Twilight said. I sigh and hold up my arm. “It was the device on my wrist, it must have finished recharging.” I pop the bubble and the beeping continues but this time a female voice can be heard too.  “Uncataloged DNA detected.” It said, surprising the mane six before a yellow beam went over Twilight, then Applejack, and finally Fluttershy. “DNA scanned and cataloged, wielder can now use new transformations.” “What the hey did you do to them!?” Rainbow dash flies at top speed right at me. Applejack immediately grabbed her arm, struggling to keep the pegasus from ramming into me. “Knock! It! Off! Dash!” Applejack said angrily. “How about you let Jake  explain!” I sigh and show them the Omnitrix. “This is a device a friend gave to me, it lets me temporarily transform into a few different life forms, as long as the form is sentient and when it comes across a species that is not in its data banks it automatically scans them and adds it to the list of transformations. in other words that yellow beam, took a very very very small part of you and put it inside the device allowing me to transform into the same species I will not be a mirror copy of you and I will still be the same age as myself but I will be the peak physical condition of whatever species I turn into.” “Amazing! Such a device shouldn’t possibly exist!” Twilight said excitedly. I sigh and lower my arm. “I'll show you all later, we have a dragon to deal with.” I say looking at the new scans and then turn the Omnitrix off and continue following them. As we were getting closer to the cave that the dragon was at, we heard shouts and roars, picking up the pace, we looked and saw. “Amethysts?” I said, confused, sure enough, there were a bunch of Amethysts fighting the dragon, each one wielding a variety of melee weaponry. I look back to the girls. “Twilight if you want to, try to get that dragon to stop.” I then turn and call out. “Hey, gems! Come over here it's safe.” Some of them heard me and looked over, they signaled the others and all of them began to run towards us, though some of them still fought the dragon. I frown and make a hexagonal shield and throw it between the dragon and the rest of the gems then make it grow to fill the cave. “Hurry!”  The Amethysts soon reached us, “Hey thanks for helping us out.” One of them said. “Yeah, that thing sure was tough.” Another said. I nod and make more shields to surround the dragon. “Your welcome, now mind telling me what happened?” “We just woke up there and that thing was about to eat us!” An Amethyst said. “We were lucky we woke up when we did. Otherwise we’d be goners.” I glare at the dragon and use my shields to pin him down. “You were going to eat sentient beings!” I get closer and start to glow pink. “You need to pay…” I take a breath and calm down. “Twilight you're the local what does the law say?” Before Twilight can answer the dragon lets out a roar that shakes the mountain and breaks my shields. “They are all thieves who have stolen my treasure!”  “Um, I don’t think he is going to listen to reason, Jake.” Twilight said, nervously. I frown and step forward. “Twilight, get the girls out of here.” I use my super speed and strength to punch the dragon's gut. I push him back and knock the wind out of him.  The dragon gave a growl before raring as he tried to hit me with his claws, but thanks to my super speed, I managed to avoid them, until he got a lucky hit and sent me flying. I almost go flying off the mountain but a group of the Amethysts fuse together into a larger Amethyst and they reach up and catch me. “Thanks, when I say so throw me at him!” I turn on the Omnitrix and turn the dial till I find the right alien. “Now!” The giant Amethyst nodded as she pulled her arm back and threw me at the dragon, seeing me and preparing to use its fire breath on me. I slam my hand on the Omnitrix and transform calling out. “Humungousaur!” and punched its jaw closed. “Hey are you up for some double teaming super Amethyst?” I ask without looking away. “Heck yeah! I could use some payback!” The giant amethyst said, cracking her knuckles. I grin and together we attack the dragon knocking him back and forth. And just as both of us punch him together knocking him into his treasure pile, Fluttershy comes up between the three of us. Super Amethyst is about to swat her away but I grab her arm. “No, not her.” Fluttershy gets between our faces. “You should know better than to use violence to solve problems! Look at how badly you hurt that poor dragon.”  I raise an eyebrow. “Miss Fluttershy, with all due respect, he was going to eat my people, and I only hit him hard enough to keep him down. Call the guards or whatever he should be punished for trying to eat living beings.” I tell her as I change back to myself and look over at the confused super Amethyst as she starts glowing and separates into a group of them. “Geez, what’s her problem?” One of them asked me. “She cares about all lives, and she is the embodiment of kindness.” I tell her and then turn to the rest. “Ok, I can see you are all gems, so I'd like to offer you a home.” I smile and lift my shirt showing my gem. “I am jake Quartz diamond, and it's nice to meet all of you.” “Jake? You look a lot like that kid Steven.” An Amethyst said, the others agreeing with her. I nod and sigh. “It's a complicated story but to put it simply think of me as a different cut.” I tell them and then look at the unconscious dragon. “But I suggest we have this talk down the mountain, Twilight please get the guards or someone to move that dragon.” “Of course.” Twilight said. I smile and turn to the gems. “Ok please stick together as we don't want you to get lost, please follow us back to town.” I tell them then pull out a phone and send a message to Ship telling him to get the gems to town. Out of the corner of my eye, I see Rainbow Dash fly down the mountain. “Just where the hay is she going?” I heard Applejack say to herself. I shrug and say. “Who knows, but I say we get moving before she starts trouble.” And starts walking down the mountain.  Soon after we got down the mountain, we saw a bunch of Royal Guards heading right for us. “Oh good, they can go move that dragon.” I say out loud and crack a smile. “Maybe she wasn't starting trouble.” “There he is. That’s the guy I was talking about.” We heard Rainbow as she flew right in front of us. My eye starts to twitch. ’Oh great what has she been telling them.’ I think to myself and as the guards try to surround me the Amethysts keep them back and protect me. “Just what the heck do you think you're doing?” One of the Amethysts said to a guard. “Better stay back if you know what’s good for you.” “If you want to get to him you’ll have to get through us.” Another Amethyst said. I groan and call out. “Don't hurt them, they are just doing their jobs and were given false information.”  “That’s a total lie!” Rainbow said, flying right up to me and getting in my face. “You just turned into a giant monster that easily took down a dragon! You’re a-” Applejack chose that time to grab Rainbow's ear and give a sharp tug. “Ok, I can handle you accusing him, but going straight to the guards is where I draw the line!” She said angrily. I put a hand on a few of the Amethysts and they move out of the way. “Technically I didn't do it alone, all these amethysts helped me find it. After all, he tried to eat them. It's only fair that they got a chance to defend themselves and they are my people. It's my responsibility to protect them after all I am Jake Quartz Diamond.” The guards looked confused while the Amethysts let out gasps before they crossed their arms in the shape of a diamond. Which showed Twilight I was telling the truth about being a leader. I look at the Amethysts and the ponies. “I don't want there to be a fight. Amethysts please go into town, you will find a Pearl, go with her to our home.” I then focused on the pony guards. “As for you I will go with you however I refuse to be under arrest for merely having powers.” The guards looked at each other then nodded as one of them walked toward me. “Follow us.” I nod and follow them back to town and I see Pearl and the gem, they look worried but I just give them a thumbs up. After a bit, the guards take me to a guard station and have me wait in a questioning room. I get bored and lay my head down. After a while, I was woken up by a guard. “Hey, get up, the princess is here to see you.” The guard said. I yawn and stretch as I sit up. “Oh? I'm surprised someone as important as her would come to see me.”  I say as I look at the guard. “The princess can see whoever she wants, now be on your best behavior colt.”  The guard says as he walks to the door and leaves for a moment before a taller mare with both wings and a horn walks in wearing a shimmering white dress with gold highlights and a necklace with a purple diamond-shaped crystal in it.  Then before she can say anything my Omnitrix starts to beep “Uncataloged DNA detected.” before it can do anything more I bubble it and muffle the beeping. I then look up at the Princess. “Please excuse my device, it's an automatic response.” “I see, while I would ask what kind of device it is. I believe some sort of misunderstanding has happened?” Celestia asked me. I tap my chin. “Well it is possible but I still don't understand why I am being held here, would you mind explaining why having powers means I'm a criminal?” I say in a way that is both annoyed and sarcastic.  “Well according to the Element of Loyalty Rainbow Dash, you have recruited a creature who was once with Nightmare Moon, currently building an army, and turned into a giant monster and easily defeated a dragon.” Celestia said. “She believes you are evil and must be locked away immediately.” I nod my head as I listen, then hold up four fingers before saying. “Alright well in order of Miss Rainbow’s concerns, my friend Deoxys was under Nightmare moon's control but has been freed and even helped hold her in place for Twilight and her friends.” I dropped a finger.  “Second, I technically don't have an army though the gems I just recruited could technically be considered soldiers, but so far I have no need for an army.” I lower another finger. “Third, I did transform into a large creature however I was not the only one that fought that dragon, the amethysts helped. So it was a two-on-one fight.” I lower another finger leaving just one.  “And lastly, if I were evil I wouldn't have helped Princess Luna or even make contact with ponies at all.”  I say and lower my hand to the table. Celestia nodded her head. “And don’t forget, giving me hope.” She said. “It took me a while to recognize your voice, but you are the one who said that I should not lose hope for my sister. Are you not?” I nod and lean back. “That was me, one of my abilities lets me astral project and enter people's dreams.” I say and I check my Omnitrix to see it is still beeping in the bubble. “Almost like Luna.” Celestia said with a chuckle. “I must apologize for Rainbow Dash’s actions. If I had known she would go this far just to get rid of you, I would have done something sooner.” I nod and shrug. “I had told her that I don't mind if she is cautious of me as long as she doesn't actually come after me unless she has proof. But I suppose it did make it so the two of us could meet, though I wish it was more official.” I sigh, shaking my head and holding out my hand. “My full name is Jake Quartz Diamond, and I am the leader of the crystal gems.” I told her. “A leader? The guards did say a large group of soldiers, which I presume were these Amethysts you speak of, made some sort of symbol with their arms.” Celestia said. “So, a leader from another country has come to Equestria, but what for?” I close my eyes and sigh as I lean back in my seat. “It's….more complicated than that, and is a conversation that should be held in private between you, me, and anyone else you believe deserves to know state secrets.” “I see.” Celestia said. I nod and sigh. “I apologize for the secrecy but what I have to say is something that I believe you would want to keep private for a while.” I explained to her. “I understand Jake, though when do you wish to discuss this matter?” Celestia asked me. “If you want, we can today, I just want to get my friend Pearl as she would be able to help explain some things.” I told her. Then I point to my Omnitrix. “I'm sorry to ask but this won't stop beeping till it gets a DNA sample is that ok?” “Of course.” Celestia said, nodding her head. I pop the bubble and the Omnitrix sends a yellow beam over her.  “Scanning uncataloged DNA.” the voice said, “Scan complete, wielder now able to use new transformation.”  I look at the Omnitrix. “Thank you, princess, so if everything is settled I can call Pearl and have her meet me here and we can go where you want to have that full discussion.” “Alright. And I’ll be sure to have a talk with miss Rainbow Dash while you do.” Celestia said. I nod and pull out my phone and send a message to Ship telling him to get Pearl to the guard station. “Well, I will be waiting outside then.” I get up and walk to the door.  “Alright.” I heard Celestia say as I walked out and waited for Ship and Pearl to arrive, I eventually heard screaming and looked up and saw Ship as a robot flying right in my direction, he soon landed in front of me and I saw that Ship had formed an armor around Pearl. I chuckle and smirk. “I suppose Ship took my words literally. Did he even tell you what was going on?” I ask as I pat a shaking Pearl’s back. “Y-yes he did.” Pearl said, as Ship let her out before changing back to normal, Pearl gave him a stern look. “N-never do that again!” “Ship ship!” Ship said, not at all bothered by the look she gave him. I smile softly. “She is right Ship, only do that if it's an emergency. Oh and Pearl we are gonna be going to tell the leaders everything.”  I keep an eye out on the door. “Everything? As in everything everything?” She asked, I nodded my head. “Yes, Rainbow Dash will continue being a thorn in our side if I don't, and Celestia knows enough that if I don't tell her the rest she will be suspicious and distrustful of us making our lives here much harder than they have to be.” I say to her just before Celestia comes out of the guard station. “I have sent word to Luna and Cadence, they have agreed to come to the meeting to hear what you have to say.” Celestia said, then looked at Pearl. “Is she one of your friends?” I nod and wave my hand over to Pearl. “This is Pearl, she is gonna help me explain some things I can't.” I look to Celestia. “So where will this be taking place?” “At Canterlot.” Celestia said. “Unless you believe some other location is best.” I shake my head and motion for her to lead the way. “No ma'am, this is your country you get to say where we go.” Celestia nodded her head. “Very well. If you follow me.” She said as we walked over to her carriage. I look it over then I hold up a hand. “How about we use something with a bit more speed.” I look down at Ship with a grin. “Ship,  Ship mode please.” “Ship ship!” Ship said happily, before morphing into a giant ship as he hovered in the air before landing. “Ship.”  I smile and look at Celestia and say. “Ta-da! So what do you say, there is enough room for us and your guards.” I point at said guards who are looking between me and Ship. “You are just full of surprises.” Celestia said. “Well, I wouldn’t mind giving it a try.” “Excellent go ahead and get your guards to relax and get on board.” I say then walk up the dacking ramp but look back to see Pearl looking uncomfortable. “Pearl, it's fine I'll tell Ship to not fly as fast.”  “Please do.” Pearl said as she walked up the docking ramp, followed by Celestia, who looked around curiously. “What kind of creature is Ship?” Celestia asked me. “He is...well he is what's called a galvanic Metamorph, though he is kinda like a dog most of the time but don't let that fool you he is super smart and great with tech.” I say as I get in Ship and sit down once a few guards get on Ship lifts it into the air. “Head to the castle on that mountain over there Ship.” I told him. In a deep voice, he calls out lighting up a bit. “SHIP.” Then he started flying to the castle. The guards seem to get nervus and one stabs the wall with his spear but the seatbelts of his seat come to life and grab him and tie him up.  “Shouldn’t have provoked Ship.” I heard Pearl say to herself, as she pats the wall, “Easy Ship, I’m sure he didn’t mean it.” Ship doesn't let the Guard go but doesn't tighten the straps anymore. It takes us a few minutes but soon we are landing near the front gate. “Well we are here, thank you Ship.” Ship returns to his normal shape, setting us on the ground. “That was an interesting ride.” Celestia said. I pet Ship with a smile. “Yeah, Ship here is great.” I smile then turn to the castle. “Nice place, much bigger than the castle we are living in.” “What castle would that be?” Celestia asked me as we walked towards the castle. I look over the city to see the Everfree and point. “It’s in that forest down there.” Celestia's eyes widened. “You’re staying at me and Luna’s…..old home?”  I nod and start walking into her castle. “Yes, at the moment it is our home seeing as it was abandoned.” some guards cross their spears stopping me from entering. “Let him in, he and his friends are with me.” Celestia said to them, they lift their spears, and all of us head inside. After a few twists and turns, we get to a set of doors that Celestia opens to show a meeting room with three other ponies already inside. “Ah, Luna, Cadence, Shining armor, good to see you here already.” I look them over as we enter the room. One is a dark blue mare and like Celestia, she has a horn and wings, the same with the next pony she is a pink mare with a horn and wings, and finally a unicorn stallion. ’Huh, wonder why he doesn't have wings.’ “We came as soon as we got the message, Auntie. But may I ask, are they the ones who asked for this meeting?” The pink mare, from Rick’s notes her name is Cadence, asked. I nod and smile. “Yes, my name is Jake and this is Pearl.” I look at the table and see there are more seats but I pick one and sit down. “Nice to meet you, I’m Shining Armor, and this is Cadence.” Shining Armor said. I smile softly, glad I didn't have to ask, or make things awkward by knowing their names before I met them. “And my name is Luna, younger sister to Princess Celestia and co-ruler of the night.” Luna then introduced herself. Pearl then whispered to me. “Wasn’t she the one who was Nightmare Moon?” She asked me. I whisper back. “More like she was possessed by Nightmare, and try not to whisper things unless it is something dangerous.” Pearl nodded her head. “I’m sure you are wondering why I have asked for this meeting.” I said to the group. “Yes, we are, however not everyone is here yet please wait a few minutes.” Celestia said as she lit her horn and a maid comes in. “In the meantime would anypony like something to eat or drink?” I tapped my chin and decided to go on the safe side. “I would like some hot chocolate and a plate of pancakes please, I skipped breakfast.” I say with an embarrassed chuckle. Pearl holds her hand up and shakes her head. “No thank you.” The others said their orders and the maid left, soon there were some voices as a unicorn stallion walked in. “Out of my way you pathetic excuse for guards this is a meeting for royalty, I am to be there!” He was white with a blond mane and tail and was wearing some kind of fancy blue suit. “Geez, who is this guy?” I mutter but I think the others heard me. “That is Blueblood, our nephew.” Celestia said, just as Blueblood sat down. “I believe you are forgetting Prince, auntie.” Blueblood said, then looked over to me and Pearl. “Who let the commoners in? I’ll take care of this.” “That isn’t necessary Blueblood, these two are here for the meeting, which the colt asked for in the first place.” Celestia said. “A colt called this meeting? And who exactly is he?” He asks while looking at me like he is trying to decide if I’m trash or his new best friend. “That is what we are here to find out, now we just need a few more to arrive and we can-” The doors open again and in comes Twilight and her friends but I do notice Rainbow Dash has some kind of magical muzzle on. “Ah, now we can start.” “Sorry we’re late, I had to find the right spell for a certain somepony otherwise they might accuse Jake of being evil.” Twilight said, giving the pegasus a stern look. I smirk a bit then nod to Twilight as they sit down at the table. “Now that everyone is here I can start.” I close my eyes, take a breath and stand up. “My name is Jake Quarts Diamond, and I am the leader of the Crystal Gems, the ones on this planet at least.” “Leader?” Shining asked then Cadence. “Who are the Crystal Gems?” “And what do you mean the ones on this planet?” Luna asked. I look at each one as they ask their questions. “Alright, in order, yes I am the leader, Diamonds are our equivalent to what you call Alicorns. The crystal gems are a race of sentient gemstones that can project hard light bodies. Pearl is one, while I am a half breed, and half organic. For the last one I mean gems are from another world, we are aliens.” Everyone in the room stared at us shocked. Well, Rainbow just continued to glare at me. “How is that possible? We have seen no traces of aliens visiting Equestria or heard no reports.” Cadence asked. “Yeah, how did you guys get to Equestria? OR better yet, why come here?” Applejack asked next. I nod and sigh. “That is where things get complicated, you see what I've said is half the story. I, myself, was not originally a gem, I am what's known as a Displaced, from what I've learned and experienced a Displaced is someone taken from their home universe, given powers, technology, or a whole new body, and dropped into a different version of your world. Aspects of what we were given appear or were already present in that Equestria, in this case, gems.” I tell them and pull my tablet out of my gem and set it on the table.  “Applejack asked why I came here, the simple answer is I didn't have a choice. I was displaced as a character from a TV show called Steven universe. In that show gems are aliens that once tried to...use the planet earth but one of their own leaders, the youngest, wanted to protect the planet so she faked her death and started a rebellion. After they won and the planet was safe. A long time passed and then pink diamond had a son with one of the locals and that son inherited her gem and that is who I am displaced us.”  I show them clips from the show on my tablet as I talk. “But for me, I was just going to a convention and happened to buy what I thought were replicas of pearl’s gem along with a few others, then I woke up in the Everfree forest.” I finish and sigh. “That’s horrible, being taken away from your family.” Cadence said. I sigh and nod looking down. “Yeah, it is, but thankfully I have the gems to help keep me safe.” “That’s good to hear.” Celestia said. “It is always great to have others around to help you when you need it.” I nod and sigh. “You may need to warn other world leaders.” I look up and frown. “The gems under me are nice but that isn't the case with others. The gem homeworld exists in your universe as well but I will not be able to tell them to stop if they find this planet they will try to ...use it” “Why do you keep pausing at use?” Shining Armor asked me, as everyone agreed with him. “You keep doing that like it’s something bad. Is it?” I sigh and nod. “Yes...gems don't reproduce like organics, they...they find planets and use what's called injectors to put a gem into the ground, then they drain the life of the planet to bring the gem to life.” I close my eyes. “They don't care about organic life and will continue using a planet even if it already has life on it.” They all stared in shock. “That’s horrible!!” Cadence said. “What kind of beings would do that?!” I shake my head. “I don't know why they are like that. For all I know they were originally created to do something and the creators died off or were pushed off their planet and they just kept on growing their population until the planet became unstable so they had to move their kindergartens to a different planet.”  All the gathered ponies had looks of shock and worry, seeing this I sigh. “But know that I don't plan on doing this to your planet, in fact, if homeworld finds this world I will help defend it.” “And how exactly will you do that? You will have to face a  bunch of these Homeworld Gems and how many are with now?” Shining Armor asked me. “Yeah, you are a bit outnumbered.” Cadence said. I nod to Cadence. “You are right we would be outnumbered, and to answer your question Shining, not counting the Amethysts that just joined us then there are...six of us.”  “Well, that’s just great. And how many of these Amethysts?” Shining asked. “Well, there are five Amethysts, a Jasper, and one Carnelian, so that makes seven more to our group, so technically there’s fourteen of us.” Pearl answered. I nod then look at Pearl as I add. “True, and let's not forget there could be more that showed up like Peridot and the ones from the dragon’s cave did, like maybe lapis is out there.” I tap my chin and smile. “Maybe all of the crystal gems.” “That’s reassuring.” Celestia said. “We’ll also help with finding more of the Crystal Gems if you want.” I nod with a smile and then get an idea. “I would appreciate that and that also brings up something that I want to ask. I'd like to ask if we can put what we called warp pads across your country. It will take some time to set them up but they'll allow us to traverse much quicker than using the train.” “Very well, if you believe it is a faster way to travel, then so be it.” Celestia said, I smile and nod. “Excellent I already have Peridot and Twilight working on making the first two warp pads though I am 99% sure only gems can use them.”  “It doesn’t matter, knowing Twilight I’m sure she can find a way past that so that others can use them in case of an emergency.” Celestia said. “Yes, we will need to evacuate ponies in case these Homeworld Gems attack any of the cities or lands.” Luna said. I shake my head. “That wouldn't happen, to the best of my knowledge homeworld does not care about organics. In fact, if the kindergartens are not messed with them then they probably would not even bother with attacking you they'll just keep pumping out more and more gems until this planet dies.”  “Kindergartens?” Blueblood asked. “As in schools?” “Not exactly kindergarten is what the gems call their creation point. It's where they put the injectors into the ground.” I tell him and sigh and pull up the right episode and then turn the tablet to face them so they can see what injectors do. “This is what a kindergarten is.” “Oh my goodness! There is no life anywhere!” Cadence said. “It looks so dead, and deserted.” I nod sadly and say. “Yes and this.” I changed the episode. “Is homeworld.” I show them the planet from space and they see a world broken into three pieces with two rings. “Sweet mother of Celestia!” Shining Armor shouted. “THAT’S their planet?!” I nod and close the tablet. “Yes, and this world will be in worse shape if they do find it and take over, I don't know if I can talk them out of using this planet but I will try, and if that fails I will fight for this world.” I say as I clenched my left fist that I slammed onto the table. “And he won’t be alone either, the Crystal Gems will fight as well.” Pearl said. Celestia nods in thought and seems to be thinking about me for a minute but Blueblood speaks first. “If you really are a leader of your race then you must need some noble connections. Perhaps I can help you if you're willing to owe me a favor or two.” “Hell no, I don't trust nobles and never will.” I told him and crossed my arms. “What?! You would turn down a prince’s offer of help?” He said. I nod. “Yes, because I have seen your type of person before, all you care about is money and reputation.” I then shrug and say. “Plus I'm still only 16 so do you really want to be seen with a child?” Blueblood gave me an annoyed look before turning his head snobbishly. Celestia shook her head. “Anyway, earlier, that device scanned me, can you tell us a bit about it?” I nod and lift my arm, this made Rainbow dash go nuts and point at me before Applejack pulls her back down. “Right... Well, this is called the Omnitrix, it's a device that lets the one wearing it transform into any species that is cataloged in it. Currently I have fourteen, four of which are all the pony types.” “Earth, Pegasus, Unicorn, and Alicorn I presume.” Luna said. “That would be all the types of ponies if there wasn't one more.” I blink and say confused. “There is a fifth type of pony? Why haven't I seen them? ...then again I've only been around ponyville mostly.” I mumbled the last part to myself. “The fifth type of pony is the bat pony, or known as the thestral, they are part of my Night Guard. I can call one of them for you to scan if you wish.” Luna said. I blink then smile. “Thanks, that would be great, the Omnitrix is also important to help species that have gone extinct. You see every species that is in the Omnitrix goes extinct it can bring that species back. I can even show you all the transformation functions if you want.” I say with a smile. “Maybe another time Jake.” Celestia said, just as a bat pony walked in wearing some scary-looking armor.  My Omnitrix starts beeping and I hold it up as it fires a yellow beam over the night guard. “And that is how it gets a new scan, any more questions?” Everyone, minus Blueblood, shook their heads no. I smile softly and say. “Good, so if that is all you have to ask about me, then do I need to do anything to continue living here? Me and the gems I mean.”  “Just don’t cause too much trouble.” Celestia said. I nod and say. “I can only promise not to cause big trouble, with so many amethysts around there is bound to be some chaos.” I shrug. “But that's life.” “Just as long as it’s not they don’t destroy anything, then I am fine with it.” Celestia said. “Now, I believe this concludes our meeting?” I tap my chin thinking. “That's all I can think of, Pearl can you think of anything?” “No.” Was all Pearl said. I nod and then say. “Well, it looks like we covered everything, so I suppose that's the end. I and Pearl can go home, oh speaking of that.” I pulled a stone book out of my gem and gave it to Celestia. “Amethyst found this in a secret room, I figured if it was hidden it must be best or something, best you take care of it then us.” “Ah yes, this book.” Celestia said, giving the book an annoyed look. “Thank you for giving it to me, I’ll be sure this thing is taken care of.” I nod and say. “I'll be sure to bring you anything else we find in the castle.” Then I stand up and smile. “Well I hope to stay on your good side and be friends, I'll see you later.”  “So long Jake.” Celestia said as I and Pearl left. We walk out of the castle and I look around seeing mostly unicorns in fancy dresses and suits but for a split second I spot someone wearing a long hooded jacket, but the moment I blink they are gone. “Huh odd, must have imagined it.” I mumble as we turn to face the train station. “Hey Pearl do you still have any bits?” “I have some bits.” Pearl said. “Why do you ask?” “We will need them for train tickets.” I point out. “Alright, well I only have enough for one, I can go back in my Gem and Ship could change into something small.” Pearl said. “I didn’t think we would take the train home.” I stop in place and then facepalm. “Ugh I’m an idiot, I completely forgot about Ship.”  I see Pearl smirk. “Took you long enough to figure that out.” I roll my eyes and huff. “Yeah yeah laugh it up, Ship please take us home.” “Ship ship!” Ship said happily, transforming into his ship form. We get on board and Ship starts flying home. I look at Pearl and say. “Oh when you get a chance could you and Twilight work together to make a list of rules for the new gems? They haven't been around people that much from what I saw, I just want to make sure they don't do anything crazy.” “Of course Jake, goodness knows that most Gems need to tone it down on the crazy.” Pearl said, causing us both to laugh. > Chapter 8 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- We soon arrive home and step out of Ship. “Alright, I think we should tell everyone what happened, would you please bring everyone to the courtyard?” I ask Pearl while I walk in that direction. “Sure thing Jake.” Pearl said, walking inside the castle, a few minutes later, everyone was in the courtyard. “What is this about Jake? I’ve Warp Pads to build.” Peridot said. “Come on Peri, if Jake wants us all here, it must be for a reason.” Amethyst said next. I nod then stand up on a piece of a broken wall so everyone can see me. “Alright, the reason I called you all here is to tell you, the leaders of this country now know about us. I had a meeting with them and told them everything about us. This was necessary in order for us to develop our work pad network as well as help us find other gems. My theory is that since Peridot and the gems from the human zoo are here then there must be other gems from your universe here as well. We need to find as many of us as we can, but we have to follow the rules of this world, we are visitors.” “As for the gems from the human zoo, I've asked Pearl to work with one of the locals to create a list of rules for all of you, so please stay near this castle till you see them, but know this, I may be a diamond but I am not going to force you to do anything you don't want to do.” I finish and look at everyone. “Any questions?” “I got one.” A Jasper, who I recognized as Skinny, said. “What will happen if Homeworld comes here? I mean, we already saw that one of them was trying to create a super weapon.” She pointed her thumb at Deoxys. I nod my head and sigh. “We...we fight, those of you who want to, that is, I won't force you in fact if they do find this world and you don't want to fight, I will get you a ship for y,u to run.” I tell them and then make a platform and stand on it. “Like I said, I'm not like the Diamonds of old.” They all looked amongst each other before an Amethyst stepped forward. “I’m not sure fighting Homeworld is a good idea, but I’ll stay and fight, after all, you helped us out when we needed it, you can be sure we’ll return the favor.” She said as the others voiced their agreement. I smile and lower myself to the ground. “Thank you all, and I will try to talk with them first if it comes to it, now you are free to go about your day till the rules are finished.”  “Jake, I need to talk to you about a recent discovery that I had found.” Peridot said, showing me the crystals I had made as Diamond Head. I look at the crystal then back at Peridot. “Ok, so what about it? I know it's really hard.” “Well, I was doing some tests on it and came to a conclusion that these crystals will replace most of what I needed for the warp Pads to work.” Peridot said. “In fact, with our current supplies, plus these crystals, the Warp Pads will be finished sooner than expected!” “Really? Wow, how many pads can you make with what you have now? I can make more for you if you need it.” I say with an excited grin. “Well, according to my calculations, I’d say the amount of Warp Pads that we can make will be around, ten or twelve. But if you are able to make more than that would be great!” Peridot said happily. I smile and nod and activate the Omnitrix turning it to Diamond head and pressed it down transforming in a pink flash. “Diamond head! Alright, Peridot, where do ya want the crystals?” I ask, smiling at her. “Well they can go just right outside the lab me and Miss Sparkle are working at. That way, we won’t damage the castle, it won’t get in the way of others and it could serve as a training ground for the Amethysts.” Peridot said, leading me to a wall where the lab was on the other side of, she made an x on the ground with her foot. “Right here should suffice.” I nod and put my hand on the ground and more crystals start to grow and I make it huge enough that it reaches the ceiling. “There you go, I want to save some power so that's all I'll make right now.” I tap the Omnitrix and change back to myself. “This is more than enough Jake, thank you.” Peridot said. “I’ll be sure the Warp pads will be finished in no time!” “That's good, keep me informed. I'll head to ponyville and wait for Twilight then send her here as soon as I can.” I smile and start heading to town. I wave at some of the gems as I pass them and once I cross the bridge I make a bubble around myself. I travel through the forest along what is becoming a well-used path. I see a family of lions with scorpion tails. They see me and watch me but I just keep walking and they don't attack. Once I make it to town I pop my bubble shield and walk through town looking around. Then my arm is grabbed by someone and I'm turned around. “What are you doing out of school at this hour young colt?” A dark pink mare with light pink and white mane and tail says to me wearing a skirt down to her knees and a white blouse.  I raise an eyebrow and cross my arms. “I don't go to school here, and I'm busy at the moment please let go.” “What do you mean you don't go to school?” She asks me. “I'm from far away and just moved to the area.” I looked up at her. “Now please let go, I would rather not use force.” The mare looked a bit surprised, but let my arm go. “Sorry, but a young colt like you should be in school, where are your parents?” She asked me. I scratch my neck. “That's complicated, my guardians are back at home getting some projects ready. I'm heading to the library to wait for Miss Twilight.”   “Well, I’m afraid I can’t have that, all fillies and colts need to go to school.” she said. I frown and sigh. “Look, I'm 16 yes, but I'm also the leader of my people, and I'm not even from this country.” The mare just gave me a look that said there’s no point arguing, I’m going to school. I frown and sigh. “You're going to make me go no matter what aren't you?” I rub my face. “Fine but I don't have time today.” “That’s fine, I need to fill out the paperwork to get you in, also, I’ll need your guardians to fill out some paperwork as well.” The mare said, giving me a stack of papers. “Oh, I should have asked this before but, what is your name? I’m Cheerilee.” “My name is Jake, Jake Diamond.” I sigh and put the papers in my gem. “Anyway I need to go now, I have to catch Miss Twilight.” I turn and start walking seeing ponies around the market but I notice a hooded person in an alley for a split second but shake my head. 'Maybe I need more sleep.’ I think and get to the library seeing a closed sign I knock on the door. Just before the door opens my Omnitrix starts beeping. “Uncataloged DNA detected.” It said, just as a dragon opened the door. “Scanning now.” Then the dragon let out a shout as a yellow beam scanned him. “Scan complete, wielder now able to access new transformation.” “Whoa what was that?” He asks as he blinks at me. I rub the back of my head. “Just..a scan, is Twilight here? I need to speak with her.” “Uh, yeah, she arrived not that long ago.” The dragon said. “I’m Spike by the way.” “Jake, sorry if I'm rude, I haven't had the best experience with dragons.” I say as I look inside. “Mind if I come in?” “Sure.” Spike said, letting me in and I saw that books were scattered across the floor. “Sorry about the mess, it’s been like this since she started working with this gem Research and Development place.” “Good to see she is taking this job seriously.” I say then I look up the stairs. “Hey Miss Twilight, it's Jake, we need to talk.” We got no response until I heard Spike sigh. “Twilight if you are buried under books, send up a magic flare.” He said, then from a pile of books a small purple orb shot up. I shake my head and walk over and help Spike dig her out. “Geez, I'm glad this was at your place and not mine.” Soon enough, we managed to get Twilight out, who looked like she might have gotten hit in the head by a book. “T-thanks.” She said. “You are welcome Miss Twilight, I have good news, better news, and some bad news.”  I tell her and help her stand up as Spike runs off to another room. “Which do you want to hear first?” “How about all three in that order?” Twilight asked, I nod and list them off. “Well, the good news is I have another job for you, I need you to work with Pearl to make a list of rules for the new gems that are joining us, the better news is Peridot made a breakthrough with the warp pads and will most likely need your help, and the bad news is I have to go to school sometime soon.” I cross my arms in annoyance.  “What’s wrong with school?” Twilight asked me. I look at her then the books on the ground and sigh. “Let's just say human school is more annoying than helpful, especially if you're intelligent. The jocks usually bully the smart kids. Not to mention kids especially teenagers are usually cruel to those who are different from them.” “That’s horrible! Why would anyone bully someone else just because they are different!” Twilight said, I shrug and tell her. “One of the theories is that it's a mob mentality type of thing, you're either with the group or you were a threat. Basically a bit of leftover from our time as cave people.” I wave my hand dismissing the thought. “So do you think you can help Pearl and Peridot?” “O-of course I can, I’ve been researching different types of spells that can be helpful.” Twilight said, “And also coming up with rules.” I nod and smile. “Good to see you are working hard, want to head back now, or do you want um...finish up here first?” I say looking at the books all over the place. “I’ll clean up this place first then head over.” Twilight said, levitating the books and began to put them in their proper place,  I nod and rub my chin. “Alright, I think I'm gonna go look at the school so I know what I'm gonna have to deal with. See ya at the castle.” I wave as I head out the door and as I walk I look around the town trying to memorize it. I eventually see a red building with kids all around it, most likely the school. I watch from a distance seeing all the kids a lot around my age playing in the yard. ’Huh doesn't look too bad and Luna always did want me to finish school, maybe it won't be so bad.’ I nod to myself and turn to head for the forest and start walking home mind on where I should look for more gems. I'm so distracted I end up walking into someone. Looking up I see Pearl. “Oh hey, Pearl.” I look around seeing I’m home already. “Sorry I was kinda deep in thought.” “Maybe watch where you are going next time.” Pearl said, then looked at the Omnitrix, before walking away. I raise an eyebrow at her odd behavior but just shrug assuming she is busy or concerned Twilight hasn't gotten here yet. I head inside and look around then go to the courtyard to see if anyone else is there. I'm surprised when I see someone there who isn't a gem. She is snow white with a pink mane and tail. I ran over and put a hand on her back. “Hey, are you ok?” The mare jumped a little when I did, looking at me with a bit of fear, and I see that she was a combination of bug and pony, she had butterfly wings on her back and I see that she had holes on her legs, horn and wings, she wore a sky blue sweater with a light gray skirt, both of which were dirty. I am about to say something when my Omnitrix starts beeping but I bubble it. “Damn thing, hey don't worry I won't hurt you, my name is jake what's yours?” “S-St-Star R-Ruby.” she said, shyly,  I smile softly and feel my face get warm a bit. “Thats a nice name, do you need food or medical help?”  “F-food.” she said, looking away a bit,  I nod and smile. “We can give you anything you need, I have a device that can make any food you could need.” I say as I put my hand on her shoulder happy that she isn't sick. “U-um.” she said nervously, “A-are you s-sure this device could m-make the food I need?” “It's possible, what do you eat? If you're worried because you eat meat don't worry so do I.” I told her with a smile. “I-it’s not that, I-I eat…..love.” she said, I tilt my head. “You eat a...emotion? How is that possible?” I ask and she can hear the confusion in my voice.  This does sound familiar to me but I can't place it. “I-I don’t know, but t-that’s what Changelings e-eat.” Star Ruby said,  I think about it. “Does it hurt?” I ask while helping her to her hooves. “N-no, but only i-if I take a l-lot,” Star said, I nod and smile. “Ok then, as long as it doesn't hurt, take what you need...um, I guess I need to think of someone right?”  I ask but my thoughts are filled with her and I can't think of anyone else. Her horn glowed a bit as a pink energy came off of me, I can see that the holes on her were filling up, but not a lot, and she looked to be better. I hold her arms as she feeds and she seems to get better soon she is able to stand on her own. “Hey your holes are closing is that good?” She nodded her head, “Yes, t-thank you.” I smile and feel a warmth in my chest. “You're welcome, now that you are feeling better would you mind if I use this to scan you?” I ask, showing the bubbled Omnitrix. “Scan me?” she asked, tilting her head, which caused her to slightly blush when I thought it was cute. “Oh um...well this device lets me scan new species that I've met and lets me turn into the same species.” I pop the bubble and let it beep. Star Ruby Looked at the Omnitrix as it beeped, then she nervously nodded her head. I held it close to her as a yellow beam scanned her, “Scan complete, wielder can now use new transformation.” I smile at her and give her a thumbs up. “See all over, so star ruby if you don't mind my asking, what are you? and how did you get to my castle?” I ask her while slowly guiding her to a broken wall for us to sit on. “I am a Changeling, and I was banished from my hive.” Star said sadly,  I frown and look down. “That sucks, why were you banished?” “It’s because I’m an albino, Albino Changelings are seen as a curse among Changelings, and are normally…...killed right away.” Star said, a few tears in her eyes, “MY mother was the queen and I had until my fifteenth birthday to get some color, then she banished me.” I frown and grit my teeth. “That isn't right!” I notice I'm glowing and sigh relaxing. “You are welcome to stay here if you want.” “Really? A-are you sure?” she asked me, I nod and smile warmly feeling that warmth in my chest again. “Sure, though we will have to make a way for you to get in and out of the temple.”  I say and rub my chin. “Yo, jake! Who's your little friend?” Amethyst calls out as she walks in. Star Ruby hid behind, looking at Amethyst nervously, I patted her arm then looked at Amethyst. “She is a changeling, and she is going to move in with us.”  “Whoa! Dude, she looks like a, uh, man what was that called again, oh yeah!” Amethyst said, “She looks almost like a butterfly!” I smile softly and look at Star and nod. “Yeah she kinda does, say Amethyst has Twilight gotten here yet?” “Yeah, she teleported here, scared Pearl quite a bit when she did!” Amethyst said, laughing, “Anyway, what’s her name?” “Her name is Star Ruby.” I say with a smile on my face and a light blush. “Uh..mind showing her around for a minute. I want to check in on Twilight, Pearl, and Peridot.” “Oh yeah! I was supposed to come get you cause Twilight, Pearl, and Peridot got something to show everyone.” Amethyst said, “They want everyone in the courtyard.” “Perfect saves me a trip.” I smirk then look at Star ruby. “Hey there is gonna be a lot of people coming here soon but they are friendly I promise.” Star Ruby looked a bit unsure but nodded her head, “Ok, if you say they are nice, then I trust you.” We then waited for everyone to arrive, pretty soon, the Amethysts, Deoxys, and Garnet soon walked in, “Wonder it’ll be this time?” one of the Amethysts said to SKinny, “Who knows.” she replied as they waited for Twilight Pearl and Peridot to arrive, soon Twilight and Pearl stood on top of a piece of rubble,  I pat Star ruby’s hand then go up and join them. “Hello everyone, as I said last time, I asked Twilight and Pearl to make a list of rules, for you all to follow.” I look to Twilight and nod. “As long as you follow these, you are free to do as you wish.”  Twilight and Pearl then began to speak, “Alright everyone, we have carefully made these rules so that way, we can live peacefully on this planet, without causing too much trouble.” Pearl said, “Rule number one is, and it’s the most obvious, don’t go around causing trouble.” Twilight said, “Second, and this thanks to Pearl, don’t treat everyone like the ones on the Zoo, third, no fighting, defending yourself is fine as long as you don’t use lethal force.” “Fourth rule is don’t take things from others, even when you don’t know if it belongs to someone, don’t take it. If you are gonna rough house, do it away from the organics, treat all sentient life like the way you wanted to be treated.” Pearl said,  “And no barging into anyone's homes.” Twilight said, as she gave a small glare to Deoxys, who just shrugged. “And that’s pretty much it.” I smile and clap my hands. “So there you have it, those are the rules we have. Now we may add more if things come up that we didn't predict, but we will try to be understanding, and I do have an idea of having an area made for you to spar in if you want to.”  “Thanks dude!” One of the Amethysts said,  I have a thought and tap my chin before speaking out loud. “And for all you Amethysts I would like it if you chose nicknames for yourselves so if I call for an Amethyst not all of you come running.” I say with a sheepish chuckle. “Sure thing dude, we can see how that can get annoying.” An Amethyst said, just as Peridot stepped forward,  I smile and chuckle softly. “Ok, Peridot the stage is all yours.”  I hop down and move over to Star ruby. “Thank you Jake, as some of you may know, me and miss Sparkle here are currently working on Warp Pads to get around easier, and I’ve also just finished something that could be useful to us as well.” she said as a FLask Robonid walked up, “As you can see this is a FLask Robonoid, normally they would be used to repair Warp Pads, but after some modifications, they can now help create Warp Pads.” The gems clap and some cheer a bit. “That is cool Peridot, how soon can we get the first two warp pads made?” I ask. Peridot smiled, “We can have the first two up and running in three hours.” she said, I grin and fist pump. “Excellent me and Twila will go meet with the mayor as soon as possible so we can have a spot cleared for us in town.” I say then I look over at Star ruby. “I'll have to do something important, but I'll be back after ok?” Star Ruby nodded her head, “O-ok.” she said, I smile at her and then walk over to Twilight and Peridot. “Twilight mind taking me to see the mayor while Peridot sets up the first warp pad?” “Sure thing Jake.” Twilight said, “Do you want me to teleport us there?” I nod then smile. “Maybe someday I can learn how to do that.” I say as I step next to her. In a flash, we were suddenly in front of a large building. “I’ll teach someday.” Twilight said as she walked in, I grin softly and follow her inside. We see an older-looking mare wearing a business suit and some glasses, she has a gray mane and is doing some kind of paperwork. “Yes, what is it? I'm very busy today.” she said not looking up from her papers. I clear my throat and smile. “Hello, ma'am I was hoping I could use a spot of land in the town.” She lifts her head and looks me over before sighing. “No, I am not giving you a spot to build your clubhouse or whatever it is.” I frown and close my eyes and breath a few times to keep calm. “Maam, I am not here for a clubhouse, I need a spot for what's called a warp pad, it will be a form of transportation that even Princess Celestia agreed I'd be able to place all over Equestria.” I lean forward with a smile. “So I ask again, may I have a spot of land please?” The mare gave me a look that meant she was seeing if either I was lying, or if I’m being serious. “Ma’am, I was there when Princess Celestia let him build his Warp Pads, so I can vouch for him.” Twilight said, The mayor sighs and turns around and digs in a drawer. “If you vouch for him, then I will have to believe you miss Twilight. Here is a map of the town where do you need this...warp pad?” she says as she turns around and lays a map out on the desk. I looked at the map in thought, I wanted the Warp Pad to be close to town yet didn’t want it to interfere with the lives of the ponies living in Ponyville. I point at a spot that is at the edge of the town but between the forest and Applejack’s farm. “Here, out of the way but close enough to be safe.” “Alright.” the mayor said, “And when will this ‘Warp Pad’ be built?” I shrug and smile. “In a few hours if my tech expert is right.” I say then look at the map again.  “Thank you, Miss mayor.”  I walk out of the office and Twilight follows. “I want to see this, let's go to the ponyville warp pad spot!” I say with a grin and run off excited. “Hey wait for me!” Twilight said, her phone in hand, “I have to tell Peridot where we are setting up the Warp Pad! And I can’t do that if I’m running after you!” I groan a bit but slow down. “Right sorry, I've just never seen one made before.” “I know, I am just as excited as you.” Twilight said, typing something on her phone then put it away, “Just sent Peridot the location, now let’s go see a Warp Pad construction!” “Heck yeah!” I got an idea and made a bubble shield around me and Twilight and jump, making us fly over the town. “yahoo!” Twilight let out a shout as we soared over Ponyville, eventually reaching our destination as we landed, well more like crashed, I made the bubble shield disappear as Twilight gave me a small glare, “Never do that again.”  I chuckle sheepishly. “Sorry, I just wanted to get here faster and I knew I could slow our fall.” I say to her and look over to see the robot coming along with Peridot but she is flying using her helicopter fingers. “Is this the correct spot?” Peridot asked as she landed next to us. I nod and smile. “Yep, out of the way of the town but close enough it isn't troubling to get to.” I watch as she forms a screen with her fingers and starts tapping on it.  Then the Flask Robonoids legs started spinning and it drilled into the ground, once it was done, it floated up and released the goop that was going to make the Warp Pad, filling up the hole, and soon we had a Warp Pad, “And that’s the second Warp Pad ready, I had already taken the liberty of making one by the castle while I waited for you to find an area for this one.” “Perfect, now who wants to test it? Also….how do I use a warp pad?” I ask looking between the two of them. “You just think of where you want to go, and the Flask Robonoid should be the one to test it, as I can always make another one, but I can’t make another one of us.” Peridot said, pressing a few buttons on her Limb Enhancer, and the Robonoid walked onto the Warp Pad, and in flash,  it was gone, “I still am connected with the Robonoid, which means the Warp Pad works, having it return to us...now.” another flash and the Robonoid was back, not a scratch on it. I smile and clap. “Well done! Say,” I kneel and poke the robonoid. “How far can you send this thing on its own? We may have to send out lots of them to different parts of the country and then eventually the world.”  “Well I can send it quite far, so it’ll be easier for Warp Pads to be built in no time in other countries.” Peridot said, “That’s great, the sooner the better.” Twilight said, I nod and step onto the warp pad. “I agree, hey Twilight want a ride with or are you gonna head home for the day?”  “I think I’m gonna see if I can use the Warp Pad as well.” Twilight said as she got on the Warp Pad, horn glowing, “After all, we need to see if organics can use it.” in a flash of light, we were at the castle, “Interesting, so my theory was correct, if organics use a small spark of magic, we can use the Warp Pads as well.” “Interesting I will make note of this.” Peridot said writing on her screen. I smirk at Twilight. “Good work you two, especially you Miss Twilight. I am impressed that you were able to figure out how to use the warp pad without a gem or a warp pad whistle.” “Yep, it was pretty easy.” Twilight said, I heard Peridot snicker,  “That’s not how I remember it being, you were practically pulling out your hair from trying to figure out how organics can use the Warp Pads.” Peridot said,  I smile and shake my head. “Alright next I would like you two to work on making a map of where the best spots for warp pads would be, then send letters asking permission to put the warp pads in those areas. As for me, I have a new friend to hang out with.”  I grin and start walking into the castle to look for her. I eventually found her talking with Pearl in the library. I smile and watch them and can't stop thinking of Star ruby. I’m so caught up in watching Star Ruby that I can't even hear what they're saying and eventually pearl waves as she leaves. Star Ruby watched as Pearl left, then said, “Jake, I know you were watching, I can kinda sense you.” Star said, causing me to freeze. I slowly came out of the doorway and chuckled nervously. “Oh hey sorry, I um...didn't want to interrupt.” I get an idea and smile holding up my arm with the Omnitrix. “Want to help me learn how to be a changeling?” “Sure,” Star said,  I smile and with a light blush on my face, I grab her hand and take her to the courtyard. Once we are there I activate the Omnitrix and turn the dial to the changeling and press it down and in a flash of pink light, I am turned into a changeling. I open my mouth to shout but then snap my mouth closed. “Huh...I guess I need a name for this form.” I looked at myself in hopes of figuring out a name, I was mostly green with my stomach being pink, and my hair or I guess mane, was black, so no difference there, I had a few spikes on my shoulders and knees, making it look like I had armor, and I had a scorpion tail, I also saw that I still made my clothes, though my jacket was bit bigger, looking like a trench coat. “Hmmmmm, how about Sharp Shifter.” Star ruby smiles. “I like that name, and you look amazing.” she looks me over and circles me making me blush and I see a light pink mist coming off myself. “Huh? What's this?” “That's your emotions.” she told me and giggled softly.  “Oh, and what emotion does the pink mist represent?” I ask her, She looks down blushing lightly. “That depends on the shade of pink but it can mean anything from embarrassment, to love, to lust.” now it was my turn to blush. “I-I see.” I said, “Um, w-we should probably s-start my training as a Changeling.” She nods and lights her horn and lifts a rock and it floats over to me. “Try to light your horn and lift this rock, simply focus your will through your horn and around the rock, but be careful not to use too much.” I nodded my head as I tried to light up my horn, seeing that it was glowing pink, I then focused on the rock, willing it to move. For a few minutes nothing happens but me staring at the rock. I groan and sigh. “This is harder than it looks.” I look back at the rock and glare then a pink glow starts to cover the rock and I start to grin  but the rock shoots up into the sky. “oops.” “It’s okay, practice makes perfect.” Star said, levitating another rock over to me, “Just try again.” I nod and practice lifting the rock and soon I can lift it with no trouble. “Cool! I got it down, what next?” “Next is shape-shifting.” Star said, in a flash, Pearl stood in her place, “This should be easy as young Changelings are able to shape-shift with ease.” her voice sounded exactly like Pearl's. “Wow, that is so cool! I could think of so many uses for an ability like that.” I say as I close my eyes and think of Peridot and when I feel something warm cover me I look and see pink flames covering me from my feet or hooves up changing me into Peridot. “This is so cool! I even sound like her.” “Great work! You successfully shape shifted, well mostly.” Star said as she pointed behind me, confused, I looked and saw my scorpion tail. I chuckle a bit embarrassed. “Oops, well still good for my first time.'' I look at my tail and back to her realizing something. “Say, why is my tail different than yours?” “It’s just how Changeling Kings or Princes are.” Star said, I blink and think about it for a minute then shrugged. “I guess that makes sense, you said your mom was the queen so that makes you a princess and I got the DNA sample from you.” “Huh, that device sure is amazing.” Star said, “Shall we continue?” I nod and look at her with a stupid smile. “Yeah, so what next?” “Well, now it’s time for you to learn how to feed on love.” Star said, I blink and blush a bit. “Ok so how do I do that?” I ask as she steps closer. “W-well, you know that mist earlier? Well, you have to magically grab it and breathe it in.” Star explained, I blink and look around seeing only a few veils of mist. “Which one is love? I see light pink and some I guess normal pink?” I scratch my head. “Regular pink is love, light pink is embarrassment.” Star said,  I look at the mist and use my magic to grab the pink mist and pull it to me and open my mouth and breath it in after a minute. I blink and lick my lips. “Huh, tastes like chocolate.” “That’s why Changelings love the taste so much, well besides it keeping us fed.” Star said, I nod lightly and rub my chin. “That makes sense I guess, so what next?” “That’s pretty much it.” Star said, smiling, “Congratulations, you now know how to be a Changeling.” I smile but look between myself and her and ask. “Why don't I have holes? Yours started to close when you were feeding, is there a way for me to give you what I have?” Star Ruby blushed after I said that, eyes wide as she stared at me before she began to speak. “U-uh, you s-see, giving love freely t-to another Changeling is c-close to a...marriage proposal.” She said the last part quietly that I couldn’t hear. I tilt my head and step closer. “I didn't hear that but I'd like to help you, please?” “It’s considered a...m-marriage p-proposal.” She said, loud enough for me to hear as I widened my eyes in shock. I blush bright pink and stare at her but I finally realize what that warmth in my chest is and take her hand and smile. “I see, well I still want to do this if you'd like?” Star’s blush got brighter as she smiled. “Y-yes.” I smile and that warmth gets hotter and she puts her hands on my cheeks and we kiss and slowly close my eyes. As we kiss I feel the warmth in my chest grow but also leave my body and into hers. After a few minutes, which felt like a few great hours, we pulled away from each other, both of us blushing. I look at her and blush more seeing all her holes have closed. “Wow, all your holes are closed how do you feel?” I ask her but she starts wobbling and starts to collapse but I catch her and gently put her down on her knees. “I...I haven’t been this full before, i...it’s unbelievable” She says with a smile and looks up at me. “Aaaww, how sickenly sweet.” A voice said, and before I or Star could react, two beams hit us and sent me a few feet, but Star went flying, crashing onto the ground. I groan and look at who hit us and frown as my Omnitrix starts beeping and flashing red. “Who are you?!” “I am someone you don’t want to piss off.” The voice said again, and I swear it sounded a bit robotic like someone was talking through a radio. “Then again, I’m always pissed!” In a flash of red, I'm returned to my normal self and stand up frowning. “Look I don't know who you are but we haven't done anything to you, just leave us alone.” I yell as I get into a fighting stance. “Oh? But you did do something to me.” Then suddenly, something grabbed me by my jacket and slammed me against the wall, nearly knocking the wind out of me and nearly destroying the wall. I looked and saw a pair of eyes glaring at me through a purple screen, a metal mask covering my attacker's mouth, which probably explained the robotic-like voice, I then saw the rest of my attacker's appearance, they wore a dark purple trench coat with their hood up, covering most of their face, a pair of familiar gauntlets sparked with purple energy, knee-length pants and they wore a pair of high heeled combat boots. “You took the Omnitrix before me!!” The figure shouted. “The Omnitrix?! How do you even know about that?!” I frown and start gathering my strength ready for a bubbled punch. “It doesn’t matter how I know about it!” The figure said and I could see that their eyes were the size of pinpricks, giving them an insane look that felt familiar somehow. “Just give me the-” I immediately punched them in the face, causing my attacker to stumbled back as the visor and mask went flying before hitting the ground, breaking. “No!” The figure shouted, covering their face with their hands.  I take a breath and start glowing pink so I'm ready for anything. I watch them trying to hide their face. “What's the matter? Is your face ugly or something?” The figure froze, then stood up straight, their back facing me, they then turned around and I froze, not believing what I saw, or to be exact, who I saw. Because glaring at me with an insane smile, was none other than Gwen 10. > Chapter 9 A diamond, a Goddess and a Raven vs the insane time villain > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- I stared at Gwen in shock, she was so much older now! I wonder how long has it been since I went to her Equestria? If she’s this much older, then it must have been a really long time! “Gwen, what happened? How long has it been? And why did you attack me?! We are friends!” I say relaxing my stance a bit. She stared at me, then gave me a friendly smile. “Jake! I didn’t recognize you! Oh wait, I did.” She said. “And as for how has it been since coming to my Equestria, well I would say about, ten years. As for why I attacked you and what happened to me, well, you’re gonna love this.” Her insane smile returned. “I’m actually from the future! And in the future, I couldn’t get over my insanity!” She then began to laugh. “Isn’t that just hilarious!?” My eyes widen and I gulp and force myself to smile. “So you came back to get my help?” I ask in hopes she didn't come to kill me. She laughed again. “Well, not exactly.” She said in a sing-song voice. “I actually came for the Omnitrix that is currently on your arm, you see, mine kinda stopped working as I progressed into insanity. Eventually, nearly all my powerful aliens are locked. So if you would be so kind as to give me the Omnitrix.” I frown, getting a sense of déjà vu. ’Why does this sound familiar?’ I think to myself as I get fully into a fighting stance. “Sorry Gwen, you gave me this Omnitrix as a gift. It would be rude to return it, but I am willing to use my healing powers on your mind.” Her eye twitched as she smiled, though it gave me the chills. “Heal my mind? Heal my mind?!” She shouted, firing a purple beam at me, I dodged it and watched as it turned a piece of stone into dust, and I realized she fired a time beam, and I only know one person who could do such a thing. I look back at her with wide eyes. “You're not Gwen, at least not the one I know! You're her version of Eon!” I frown, then smirk. “You are Gweon!” She smiled darkly at me. “Took you long enough to figure it out, but seriously, Gweon? That’s dumb!” She said, firing another time beam at me. I jump out of the way and summon a bubble in my hand, then grow spikes on it before throwing it at her. “You're here to steal this Omnitrix! How unoriginal, at least try not to copy your own villains.”  “Hey! Eon and the others wanted it for different reasons, I just need it!” She said, easily catching the spiked bubble shield, and threw it away. “So hand it over or else!” I land on a wall and summon a hexagonal shield. “Sorry Gweon not gonna happen, you will obviously use it to destroy your world even more. I won't let that happen.” She growled as she fired multiple time beams. “Stop calling me Gweon you little shit!!” She shouted, some of the time beams missing me and hitting the area around me, then one time-beam I saw was heading towards Star Ruby. “No!” I use my super speed and get between Star ruby and the beam then close my eyes summoning a shield, when I feel the beam hit it and peek and am shocked. “In front of me blocking the time beam is my gem weapon, a round shield with a spiral design on it with a rose in the center.  I smirk and hold the shield up. “Looks like gem weapons are immune to your time beams Gweon.” I chuckle as I continue to use the name to annoy her. She glared at me, then she smirked. “Let’s just see about-Gagh!” She shouted in pain as one of Garnet's gauntlets hit her, I looked and saw all of the Crystal gems at the door of the library, armed to the teeth. I shake my head as I throw my shield at Gweon as hard as I can. “Stay back! She can fire beams of time energy and age things to dust!”  I look back at Star ruby. “Stay with them!” Then I ran after Gweon with my speed. She glared at me as she aimed both of her gauntlets at me, both sparking with energy. “I’LL TURN YOU TO DUST!!” She screamed, firing a large beam at me. I summon my shield back and am pushed back by the beam. I am slammed into a wall and it starts aging behind me. “D-damn it! She is too strong.” I hold my arms out to keep my shield up and spot my Omnitrix. It is still red but I get an idea.  “I really hope this works, Omnitrix activate voice authorization passcode 0000, call Gwen 10 now!” I yell to be heard over the time beam I'm holding back as the wall around me turns to dust and I start sliding back again. “Passcode accepted, calling Gwen.” It said, then automatically switched to the hologram of Gwen before the dial pressed down, and in a flash, a pink portal got in between me and the time beam, causing a backlash that hit Gweon.  I pant as my shield shrinks down to normal size and moves to my arm. “Man am I glad that worked.” I say as I watch the portal.  Then I heard laughing, the kind of laughing I’m glad to hear as Gwen jumped out of the portal, still laughing. “Wow, what a ride!” She said happily. “Glad to see you again Gwen but I have a big problem and so do you.” I say pointing at Gweon.  “Gwen, meet Gweon.” Gwen looked at the Eon version of her. “Gweon? That’s a stupid name!” Gwen said, laughing. “What problem do you have with her? If she’s me then she shouldn't be a threat. I think.” “Like most Ben 10 villains she is after my Omnitrix. Also, she is an insane version of you. Her Omnitrix doesn't work anymore but she does have time powers.” I frown and step up next to Gwen. “Oh and I use the name Gweon to piss her off, a mad villain is a dumb villain.” I whisper to her. “Ain’t that the truth!” Gwen said smiling, looking at Gweon. “So, this is me in the future? I must say, I’m kinda loving the look. But unfortunately, I have to kick your ass, or is technically me kicking my own ass?” I look Gweon over and then say. “She is probably a parallel time version of yourself. I don't see your ship anywhere on her, meaning you don't grow up to be her. Now then I guess it's hero time!” I look at my Omnitrix but see the hourglass is gray. “Huh? Hey, my Omnitrix is grayed out.” “Oh yeah! I totally forgot to mention, if we use both of our Omnitrixs, we run the risk of a malfunction. So your Omnitrix is currently locked until I leave.” Gwen said, smiling. “But don’t worry, I’ll provide the Omnitrix for this battle.” She then popped up the dial and began to go through aliens. I nod and smile and glow brighter. “Right, then good thing I'm just as strong and fast as some of your transformations!” I run at Gweon and throw my shield at her as a distraction. When she knocks it away I use a mix of my speed and strength to give her a powerful uppercut knocking her into the air. “She is all yours, just try to keep the fight away from town or the castle.” A pink flash and a blue blur hit Gweon into the wall before landing, revealing Gwen as XLR8. “No problem!” She said, still smiling as she rushed at Gweon again, sending her through the wall and outside. I follow them and see Pearl and the other gems. “Pearl, get any gems with long-range attacks a safe distance away and take potshots at the one with the coat, me and Gwen are going to fight her head-on, you'll be our long-range support.” “On it.” Pearl said, just as I jumped out of the hole they made and landed outside the castle, watching as Gwen literally danced around Gweons time beams, angering the crazed time villain. I watch their movements then throw my shield at the right time to hit Gweon in the back of her head. “Hey Gweon, how about you fight two speedsters!” I use my speed to run around her with Gwen, at close to XLR8’s speed. Gweon let out a shout as she began to fire in every direction, each beam missing us or getting too close for comfort as we ran around her, Gwen suddenly went faster and faster, creating a small twister that pulled Gweon into the air. “Hey Jake! Let’s play duck hunt! And Gweon is the duck!” I heard Gwen say. I grin and make lots of spiky bubble shields. “I like that idea here is your ammo.”  Gwen ran out of the twister and began sending the spiked bubble shields at Gweon, who was trying to stop herself from spinning, we thought the spiked bubble shields were gonna hit, until, “Stop!” I heard her shout, then the next thing I knew, me and Gwen were on the ground, covered in cuts and bruises, with Gweon standing not too far away from us. I groaned as I stood up. “What the hell?! Did she just use a Final fantasy spell on us?” “Nope, the bitch stopped time with her time powers.” Gwen said, no longer XLR8. “Language.” I said under my breath, we heard Gweon laugh. “You fools! How can you beat someone who has time powers?!” She shouted, smiling darkly at us. “When I stop time again, you’ll be dead.” I growl and glow brighter focusing my power. “Then we will just have to move faster!” I start moving at hyper speed, and everything around me slows down. I leave after images of myself behind me as I run up to Gweon and punch her face then gut then sweep her legs but start to pant. “What’s the matter Jake? Can’t use that power yet?” I heard Gweon ask me, before she punched me in the gut, and then kicked me away from her. “Face it, you two lost before this even began.” “I wouldn’t be so sure about that.” I heard Gwen say as I looked at her, a raven on her shoulder, though something about it made me suspect it wasn’t a normal raven.  I stand back up next to Gwen and whisper. “Please tell me you have a plan.” “Plan? What’s that?” She asked me as I facepalmed, then saw her hands were covered in dark energy. “Azarath Metrion Zinthos!” The raven then flew away from us before in a burst of energy, turning into a portal, I then realized that the raven was a Token, and from the dark abyss came a familiar figure. “Hi Raven!” “Oh cool backup and a magic user too.” I smirk and turn to Gweon. “And that's not all.” Just then bolts of energy, rocks, lasers, and Garnet's gauntlets are all fired at Gweon hitting her and around her. “Gems never fight alone!” I look over to see Pearl firing energy bolts from her spear, the Amethysts throwing rocks and boulders with their strength, and weapons, Peridot using her limb enhancers laser, and Garnet firing her gauntlets like rockets.  As we watched the Gems attack Gweon with long-distance weapons, Raven walked over to us. “Can someone please explain what’s going on?” She asked. “Oh it’s really simple, a future version of me, except way more insane came to Jake's world, the kid I told you about, and tried to take the Omnitrix from him, he summoned me and we fought her but we got our butts kicked, so I summoned you.” Gwen said, all in one breath too. I blink at Gwen and raise an eyebrow. “That was kinda impressive, just don't teach Amethyst how to do that.” I then turn to keep an eye on Gweon. “So she’s the future version of Gwen? Doesn’t look that impressive.” Raven said, just as Gweon let out a shout as she created an arc of energy and stopped the Gems from attacking her, causing most of them to poof. “I stand corrected. So, you need my help?” Seeing the gems get poofed I roar with anger and run at Gweon and slam into her with my shield then use my bubble knuckles to start beating her face in. “No one hurts my family!” I saw her gauntlet spark with energy and immediately grabbed it and destroyed it, but she blasted me with her other gauntlet, sending me flying, but a raven made of magic caught me and brought me over to Gwen and Raven. “Maybe you should take it easy with the anger.” Raven said to me. I groan laying on the ground and glaring at her. “Yeah... I've been told.” I sigh and weakly get back up only getting a bruise. “Thank goodness for my increased durability, be careful she controls time.” I see her and Gwen smirk. “And that’s supposed to scare us?” Raven asked as Gwen transformed into what I can tell was a Gwen version of Blitzwolfer as the two charged at Gweron, who fired a couple of time beams from her only working gauntlet, the two easily dodged as they proceeded to fight her, Raven sent a beam of magic at Gweon while Gwen ran behind her and kicked her towards the beam, causing her to scream in pain as she was sent flying. I get up and run over to where I saw the gems and look for their gems while I make hexagonal shields to keep me safe from any stray shots. I find them all and smile then bubble Peridot's limb enhancers and see Skinny hiding behind a wall. “Here keep them safe.” She nodded her head, then asked me. “Who the heck is that?” she pointed at Gweon, who blasted Gwen into a few trees before Raven hit her with a boulder. “That is a time traveler from another timeline who came for this.” I hold up my Omnitrix. “But me and my friends can handle her, tell the others to stay out of the way. I don't want to lose any of you.” I then make my shields form spikes and throw the spiked wall at Gweon providing the perfect distraction. She saw it and before she could do anything, the spiked wall rammed into her and the two soon crashed into the trees. “Thanks Jake!” Gwen said as she and Raven chased after Gweon. I nod and jump down and use my speed to follow them. ’I need to get more training from the gems.’ I think to myself as I run through the forest following the sounds of fighting till I come to a clearing where everything looks like it is dead. I heard a shout of rage and looked and saw Gweon, but she was now Heat Blast, as she tried to blast Raven and Gwen with her fire, but when the fire hit a tree, I saw that it not only got slightly burned, but it immediately turned to dust, which meant Gweon has access to her time powers even when an alien. I heard Gwen yelp in pain as she got hit, I froze thinking that she was done for, only for a flash of pink and she was back to normal again. I rush over and stop next to her. “Are you alright Gwen?!” “Of course I’m fine!” Gwen said, waving her hand dismissively. “I’ll be even better when I get payback!” She slammed her hand on her Omnitrix, only for nothing to happen, we both saw that it was red, meaning it needed to recharge. “Hey look at that, she sped up the time on it so I can’t access my aliens for a while.” I look at her Omnitrix and nod. “It seems so, good thing you have magic too right?” She smiled nervously. “Not exactly, I’m still learning.” Gwen said. “But I do know a few spells that could help end this sooner!” I give her a thumbs up. “Good, me and Raven can hold her off while you get the spell ready.” I summon my rose shield and hexagonal shield on my arms then run at Gweon and throw the first one at her. It managed to hit her side, causing her to yell in pain before she sent a blast of fire at me, but it was blocked by Raven's magic. “Don’t let up! Hit her with everything you got!” She said as she fired a beam of magic at Gweon, who countered with a blast of flames, keeping the beam of magic at bay but that left her open for an attack. I use my speed to get close enough and punch her side then move to the other side and hit her there. Once she loses focus I put her into an air-tight bubble and focus all my strength into holding it together. “Raven help!” Raven flew over and added her magic to the bubble, keeping the insane time villain trapped as she tried to blast her way out. I grunt as I feel my bubble about to give. “Gwen how much longer!?” But Gweon blasts through our bubble and I'm sent flying back. Raven soon landed next to me as she was blasted as well, but still kept the bubble up with her magic, Gweon stopped blasting the bubble and she pressed the Omnitrix symbol on her chest, and in a flash of pink, she broke through the bubble as Four Arms, we both got up and prepared to fight, but she sent time beams from her gauntlets, me and Raven ducked under them and watched as they turned the ground behind us into a deep canyon. “Holy crap! Yeah, I'd say she is pissed now. Listen we need to get close enough to hit that Omnitrix and change her back, that or make her keep changing till she times out.” I tell Raven and hit my fists together as I start glowing again.  Raven nodded her head as a raven made of magic formed behind her and we charged at Gweon, Raven sent the raven construct at Gweon, who punched it with two of her four arms, I used my super speed as best as I can and ran behind her, jumping up and hitting the back of her head, causing her to shout as she became disoriented. “Guys! You may want to get out of the way!” I heard Gwen shout and looked and saw that she was radiating magic energy. I nod and while Gweon is disoriented I grab her four hands and tie them together using a bubble then grab Raven's hips and run back over behind Gwen setting her down. “Fire away Gwen!” Gwen nodded with a smile. “Well it was nice meeting you, but it’s time for you to go boom!” She said, releasing her spell as a fiery phoenix flew at Gweon, I thought we had won, but that was before Gweon said one thing. “Stop.” She said, and the next thing I knew, the phoenix hit a bunch of trees, causing a massive explosion, and Gweon held Gwen by her neck, holding her over the canyon with a gauntlet aimed right at her. “Another step, and she dies. I don’t have to worry about disappearing 'cause it’s like you said, I’m a parallel time version of her.” She said, her gauntlet sparking dangerously. “So what’s it gonna be? Try to fight and risk your friend dying? Or stay where you are and give up?” I growl and grit my teeth looking down. I try to think of a plan. I get an idea and whisper. “Raven, when she lets go, get Gwen.” Then I look up at Gwen and start walking forward. “Fine, my Omnitrix for Gwen's life.”  Gweon held her gauntlet closer, causing me to stop. “Take off the Omnitrix, and throw it into the woods. Now.” She said, the gauntlet getting closer to Gwen. “And no tricks, unless you want me to stop time again and kill her. That’s all it takes, I don’t even need to say stop.” I take a breath and hope she believes me. “I can’t remove it myself, I was worried it would be stolen so I told it to randomize the unlock code. But I'm sure a master of the Omnitrix like you could figure it out easily.” I hold my arm up slowly. ’Come on just a bit closer.’ Gweon looked at me with a studying gaze, then said. “Omnitrix, passcode 012, unlock." The Omnitrix beeped and unlatched itself from my arm, causing me to curse. “Now, pick it up, and throw it in the woods. And no bubbles or magic.” I pick it up in one hand and look at it then close my eyes and enter hyper-speed rushing to Gwen, then I put a bubble around her before Gweon can stop time. I also quickly bubble the Omnitrix and tap it sending it to the temple. Gweon on her part gave a shout as she punched me, or at least tried to if Raven hadn’t grabbed her arm with her magic, I quickly reached for Gwen and tried to get Gweon to let go of her, I nearly succeeded before she grabbed the back of my jacket and threw me at Raven, crashing into her, we both watched as Gweon gauntlets fired a beam at us, trapping us in a dome. “You couldn’t have made this easy, could you?! No, you had to play the hero! Well, heroes, time to face the consequences of your-” “Hey Gweon, leave him alone, sure he made a dumb move but at least you gotta give him an a for effort right?” Gwen said, interrupting Gweon. “And another thing, Gweon is starting to rub off on me, so from now on, you shall be Gweon!” “Stop calling me that!!” Gweon said, glaring at the girl. “I am not Gweon!! That name is stupid!!” “GweonGweonGweonGweonGweon!” Gwen said rapidly, annoying Gweon. “Hey GweonGweonGweonGweonGweonGweonGweon!” I watch this then look at Raven. “Can you open a portal out of here? We can't just let Gwen fight on her own.” “I’m trying, but she threw you pretty hard, so when you crashed into me, I swore I heard one of my ribs break.” Raven said, holding her side. “But I’ll try to open a portal as fast as I can.”  “GweonGweonGweonGweonGweonGweonGweonGWeonGWeon!” I looked over and I saw that Gweon was covering her ears with her other arms, trying to block out Gwen's constant chanting. “Damn I wish I had my healing spit under control.” I say then I make a bubble around us in Gweon’s dome and start making it grow trying to break it. “Come on!” “Alright, that’s it!” Raven and I looked and saw that Gweon had a look of rage on her face, then we watched in horror as her gauntlet fired a beam right through my bubble around Gwen and through Gwen's gut, the beam soon stopped as Gwen stared at her gut in shock but still had that smile on her face. “Didn’t think….you would….do it…..” Then Gweon tossed Gwen into the canyon, then she turned to us, just as I broke through the shield and charged at her with a cry of rage, wanting to make her pay, only for everything to stop again and I see that she had both me and Raven by our necks, squeezing slowly and blocking our oxygen,  “You should have just handed me the Omnitrix when you had the chance, now your friend is dead, cause you couldn’t listen.” She said, squeezing tighter. “Don’t worry, I’m not gonna kill you, I’m gonna spare you and retrieve that Omnitrix you sent to your temple, then get that annoying brat's Omnitrix.” I looked at her shocked. “It’s amazing how much a fan of Steven Universe can know. Wouldn’t you agree?”  I gasp for breath before saying. “You are the fool, even if you get my Omnitrix and hers, the same thing that happened before will happen again, then again the definition of insanity is to do the same thing over and over and expecting different results.” I lift my hands to her face and make shields and slam them together on her head as hard as I can.  She grunted when I did, her grip loosening, and I used that opportunity to try and get free, only to hear a gasp as the hand holding Raven's neck squeezed tighter. “Try that again and I’ll snap her neck like a twig.” Gweon said, shaking her head. “Gwen was right about one thing, I should give you an A for effort, but in the end, it was all for nothing.” As she was talking, we saw something stand up from within the canyon, something big with pink eyes. I smirk and cough weakly. “You forgot something important very about the Omnitrix Gweon.”  “And what would that be?” She asked me as Raven laughed. “It can save its wielder by changing into an alien best suited for their survival.” Raven said, just as Gweon went wide-eyed and turned around, seeing Gwen as Way Big, using the distraction to our advantage, we got free from her grasp and I slammed my hand on her Omnitrix, changing her back. Raven and I jumped back as a giant fist came crashing down on Gweon, when Gwen lifted her fist up, Gweon was on the ground, wounded, but not out as she tried to fire a time beam only to get crushed again, and again, and again until Gwen destroyed the cliff Gweon was on. I fall onto my ass panting. “Holy crap that was close, thank god for that safety feature.” “I know right?” Gwen said, smiling at us. “I am so glad for that, the moment she tossed me into the canyon, the Omnitrix changed me into Swamp Fire, healing the hole in my gut, then I changed into Way Big and well, you can see what happened after that.”  “But is Gweon out for the count?” Raven asked. I shake my head. “I doubt it, Gwen mind taking care of her before-” There is a flash of light and when we looked in the crater she was gone. “-she does that…” “Hey! Come back and fight me bi-” Gwen was interrupted when Raven made a giant hand that slightly hit her upside the head. “Language.” Raven said simply, then sighed. “She’s most likely back in our Equestria, healing from her wounds.” I look up at Gwen. “Seems you got a new bad guy to deal with now, at least you won't be bored anymore.” I chuckle weakly before falling onto my back.  “Jake!” I hear Star Ruby call and look over to see her flying this way.  As well as the Crystal Gems, all of them stopped when they saw Gwen, still as Way Big, they all pointed their weapons at her, Gwen on her part was not bothered by them, in fact, it was the total opposite. “Aaaaw, they look so adorable when they’re small!” Gwen said, picking up Pearl. “They look like action figures! Watch me make Pearl dance!” “Gwen please put her down and change back! They are not toys” I say, still laying on the ground. “I'll give you pizza or any other food you want.” Gwen at first pouted but then smiled. “Okay!” She said happily, putting Pearl down and pressing the Omnitrix and changing back to normal, perfectly fine. “I’m hungry anyways! When do we eat?!” I chuckle and Star Ruby helps me sit up. “Let’s head back to the castle first, oh and Pearl we may have some more company soon if-” In a flash of golden light Celestia and Luna appear wearing battle armor looking around.  “We felt powerful magic being used here, what has happened and who made that canyon?” Celestia asked. “It's a long story, but if you come with us we can fill you in...Pearl would you mind helping me walk? I'm really sore.” I said and whined when I try to stand on my own. “Sure Jake.” Pearl said, helping me up and helping me walk back to the castle, I can hear Gwen bothering the princesses but when I looked I can see they don’t mind her bugging them. “They are treating her like an excited filly.” Raven said, walking next to me and Pearl. I nod and smile. “Yeah, it's good for her too. I don't know if you know but her royal sisters and she had a falling out.” I tell Raven and Star Ruby came and helped Pearl. “She needs friends now more than ever or she will turn out like Gweon.” “I know, I came from her Equestria as well, so I know what happened to her.” Raven said, sighing. “Forgive me, I didn’t introduce myself, I’m, well I guess Raven now.” She held her hand out to me, I smile and shake her hand. “I'm Jake, nice to meet you.'' I look ahead to see the rest of the gems coming out of hiding. “Hey everyone, these are all friends, they won't hurt you, annoy you maybe, but not hurt.” “She will annoy you, but not me.” Raven said, pointing at Gwen, who was currently talking with the two sisters. The gems looked unsure but nodded and we got to a table, Pearl set me down and Star Ruby sat next to me. “Pearl I put the Omnitrix in a bubble and sent it to the temple please go get it for me, and Amethyst please go get the food replicator.” “Sure/Alright Jake.” They both said, going to do the tasks I had given them. “Wow! This is where you live?!” Gwen asked me, looking at the castle, “This place could really use some work!” I frown at Gwen. “Yeah it’s a work in progress but we mostly live in the temple.” I sigh and smile as Star Ruby hugged my arm. I see Gwen had a smile on her face, I knew what she was gonna do, but Raven thankfully covered the girl's mouth before she could say anything. I blush lightly and mutter. “Thank you, Raven.” Soon Pearl and Amethyst come back. I take the Omnitrix and pop the bubble before putting it back on. “Thank you, Gwen go ahead and order whatever you want.” Gwen's smile got bigger and she began to list off a ton of food items, when she was done, she had basically listed off everything, from pizza, burgers, hot dogs, hell, she even asked for ice cream. I shake my head and chuckle softly and the replicator starts making her orders one by one. “To make a long story short, basically an evil version of Gwen's future self came here for this.” I show the princesses the Omnitrix. “And I called Gwen for help, we fought and won for now...speaking of which.” I look at Gwen.  “Gwen before you get too busy eating mind using alien X to protect my timeline from Gweon so she can't come back?” I ask as I try to get a slice of pizza but my hand is slapped away. “No pizza for you!” Gwen said, giving me a look as she protected her food. “You can easily get this stuff! I have to stick with salads and stuff!” She then took a bite out of the pizza I was trying to grab. “But yeah. I can.” She then propped up the dial on her Omnitrix, and slammed her hand on it, in a flash of pink, a tall female humanoid who looked like she was made out of a star system appeared, her hair which resembled the rest of her body, blew in an unseen wind. “Alien X! The master of reality itself!” She said, and I thought it was weird as it sounded like there was only one voice. I cross my arms and give Gwen a disapproving glare. “Gwen...did you somehow remove the other two personalities of alien X?” “What?! Who me? Nooooooo.” She denied. “You trust me right?” If she could, she would be giving me an innocent smile. I sigh and walk up to her and put a hand on her shoulder. “Gwen I do trust you but I also know you've had a troubled life when it comes to your mental health, please fix alien X, all that power should never be in the hands of only one person, that is why there are always three personalities in each celestialsapien.” I look up into her eyes with both concern and hope. Gwen was silent before she sighed. “I didn’t get rid of them, they are just watching how I use Alien X, you see while I’m like this, I can think clearer, and make better decisions.” She let out another sigh. “Jake, I’m sane while I’m Alien X. My insanity became a personality, don’t ask me how, it just did.” I nod and lower my arm. “I see, as long as the other two are there, and if I had to guess, it's because you are supposed to be the voice of reason that the Omnitrix took your insanity from you while in this form.” I smile softly. “Gwen, I believe you can get better, and promise to help, not because you gave me an Omnitrix, but because you are my friend.” “He’s right Gwen, you can get better, and no matter what, if you need our help, we’ll be there for you.” Raven said, smiling. Celestia nods and walks over. “I do not know your story young mare, but I can tell there is a bright light inside you, so long as that light is alive you will be a wonderful mare, and friends help that light grow.” “Thanks, I….I really needed to hear those words again.” Gwen said, she then snapped her fingers. “I just put a barrier around your dimension Jake, Gweon isn’t coming back here anytime soon.” I nod and smile then look over Alien X. “Say...can I get Alien X from you? It could be useful if I come across a powerful and dangerous displaced.” Gwen held her chin in thought and then nodded her head. “Sure, but just to let you know, the more power you have, the more powerful an enemy will appear to counter your strength.” She said. “I don't plan on using them if I can help it, sort of a 'just-in-case' kind of thing.” I say and hold up my Omnitrix that beeps a few times. “Uncataloged DNA detected, scanning now.” It said as a yellow beam went over Gwen's body. “Scan complete, wielder now able to use Celestiosapien transformation.” I smile and look up at Gwen. “So what is it like as Alien X?” I ask as I sit down and take a chilly dog. “Well, it’s pretty amazing, the ability to do whatever you want, like let’s say.” She then looked around until her eyes landed on me. “I wanted to change someone into something else.” She snapped her fingers and then suddenly I felt different, I heard a few gasps and snickers and looked around. I see them all looking at me. “What?” my eyes widen and I touch my neck then slowly look down. I then see breasts on my chest and I blush bright red. “Gwen!” “What? I was only giving a demonstration.” She said. “Besides, I always wondered what Nora Universe would be like if she was born instead of Steven, now I know.” I frown and cross my arm then blush when I feel my arms press against my new breasts. “Not cool, please turn me back, as ….interesting as this is I'd rather be my own gender.” She snapped her fingers again, changing back to normal. “So yeah, I can do that, and many more.” She said. I sigh, glad to be back to normal and then I ask. “Aside from what you just did, what else have you done as Alien X?” “Well, not much, when I change back I keep myself from becoming Alien X again, that’s due to the insanity taking over again, but when I do become Alien X, I just hang around, seeing what I can do, I even turned an entire mountain into diamond once.” Gwen said, laughing a bit. “You should've seen the looks on everyone's faces when I changed it back to normal.” I chuckle and shake my head. “That would have been one hell of a shock, what is the insane personality like? how did you get both personalities to cooperate? And what is the second personality like?” “Oh well, she is like insane, but also funny and knows when to bring me up when I’m down, she even gave herself a name, Crazy.” Gwen said, laughing loudly. “Sorry, Crazy just said something funny.” I raise an eyebrow. “Oh? Bet it was something about how I looked pretty as Nora.” “Yeah, it pretty much was. As for how I got her to cooperate with me, I just tell her that she can do one prank on the ponies as long it isn’t too extreme, that was when Vilgax first came to my Equestria, after we sent him to the Null Void as a statue, she turned all the cake in Equestria into salads, and no matter how hard bakers tried, they would only get salads instead of cake. It is basically a prank for Tia.”  Celestia gasps horrified and I roll my eyes. “I can see it being funny for a bit but maybe you should undo that one as a peace offering to your Celestia.”  “I already did a long time ago Jake, back when Celestia and Luna enjoyed my pranks, the ones that didn’t cause, you know, the ones that got stoned.” Gwen said. I nod and say. “Good, hmm I hope they see you need friends not enemies soon.” I look over to Celestia. “Actually I have an idea, what if my Celestia and Luna write yours?” Gwen rubbed the back of her head nervously. “I….I don’t know Jake, but it might be worth a shot.” She said. I look at Celestia and Luna. “Would you two mind? She did do some bad things a long time ago but that is because she was sick, and still is, but she is getting better and needs friends more than enemies.” Celestia and Luna both looked at each, then back to Me. “We agree with you Jake, from what she has told us, she needs friends now more than ever, we will write the letter.” Celestia said. I smile brightly. “Thank you both, and Gwen, Raven would you like to stay the night?” “Sure, it could give me time to heal after that battle.” Raven said while Gwen was excited. “Really?! Are you sure I can stay the night?” She asked me, stars in her eyes. I nod and say. “Yeah, I’ll add some extra bedrooms to my room. It should be able to handle a few more rooms.” Gwen immediately pulled me into a hug. “Thank you thank you thank you!” she said. I blush and Star Ruby hisses at Gwen. “U-um Gwen, do you mind?” She looked at me confused, then let me go. “Sorry, it’s just I’ve never been to another Displaces Equestria, much less stayed over.” She said, just as Star Ruby latched onto my arm. I blush lightly and pat her arm. “Well like I said, I don't mind if you stay, just don't do anything too big.” I smile and add. “Hey if I turn into alien X could you turn me back if I get stuck?” “Sure thing.” Gwen said. “And if I do try to do anything too big, I got Raven to keep me in check.” I nod and smile. “Then go ahead and talk with my friends and family, I'm gonna meet my Alien x but if I'm not out in an hour change me back please.” “Okay.” Gwen said with a smirk. I nod and smile walking over to the middle of the room and tried to activate my Omnitrix but it is still gray and I groan. “I forgot it is locked, damn.” “Took you long enough.” I heard Raven say. “As long as Gwen is in this Equestria, your Omnitrix isn’t gonna work.” I sigh and sit back down. “Right, I forgot.” I picked up a cupcake and took a bite. “So how long have you been on Gwen's world Raven?” “Hmmm, I think roughly around two days.” She replied. “But it feels like I’ve been there forever, the spells Raven uses, I know them all like it’s second nature to me.” “Oh? That's lucky I'm still learning how to use my powers.” I said to her. “Huh, well, I guess I am lucky, or maybe  I’m supposed to know them to keep Gwen out of trouble.” Raven said, sighing. “Honestly, the sooner I find a spell to help her with her insanity, the better for her.” I nod and smile. “If you need my help just call me, I do have healing abilities.”  “I’ll be sure to remember that.” She said, then yawned. “Wonder what time it is.” I look up and see the sun is close to setting. “Well I should set up the guest rooms and the princesses can go home.” I say and get up with Star Ruby sticking close to me, making me blush. “Someone’s got a girlfriend.” Raven said, causing me and Ruby to blush. “Don’t worry, I’m not like Gwen, so you won’t hear any teasing from me.” I look at her. “Thank you, w..we kind of just started dating.” I say shyly and chuckle. “But enough of that let's make you some rooms, it was nice seeing you princesses again, have a safe trip home.” I say as I show Gwen, Raven, and Star Ruby to the temple door and my gem lights as it opens to my room. “Nice. I should get me one of these.” Gwen said, still Alien X. “I’ll make you one when we get home.” Raven said, rolling her eyes. “Or you could ask Pearl how she made it.” I say as I walk to the ‘living room’ stepping on the control pedestal and begin adding three extra rooms making them just simple rooms with beds, closets, and a bathroom each. “There we go, now you all have your own room...Hmm, I should find a way to let Star Ruby open the temple door.” “Let's worry about that later, for now. I’m gonna get some sleep.” Gwen said, walking to a room, but before she entered, she let out a sigh as her hand hovered near the Omnitrix, but didn’t press, then she went inside the room. “Night.” I frown softly. “I wish I could help her more.” I look to Raven and Star ruby. “Sleep well you two if you need anything just wake me up.” I smile softly and head to my room. I hear Raven and Star say goodnight to me as they head into their rooms, I lay down in my bed and yawn as I look up at the ceiling and slowly fall asleep.’Wish I could help Gwen.’ Darkness, that’s all I saw as I kept walking, ’How did I get here?’ I thought to myself, looking around, seeing nothing but darkness, I eventually see something, it was too far away but I definitely see it, it looked like a house? I start running to get to it faster and I seem to move faster than I thought possible till I stop at the front door. ’Huh, what is this place?’ I knock on the door. I got no reply, I knocked again and this time the door swung open slowly, letting out a creak that echoed all around me. “Hello?” I call out and hear my voice echo. “Is anyone here?” I got no reply again, so I walked in and started to try and find someone here, as I was walking through the house, I saw that there was hardly anything here, no pictures, barely any furniture, and it was creepy as hell. I then jumped when I heard something, it sounded like footsteps. “Come on don't be all spooky, I just want to know what's going on here.” I say backing up slowly looking all over the room. I heard the footsteps again, this time followed by laughter, I froze as the footsteps had gotten closer. “Fuck this shit I’m out.” I said, running down a hall, the footsteps following me while the laughter got louder and closer, I eventually came to the worst thing ever, an intersection, both paths were dimly lit. I heard the laughter again, this time way too close for comfort. I look both ways then go left. “Damn it! I hate horror movies!” I run down the dark hallway and my body starts to glow softly lighting the way. I kept running and running, but I stopped when I realized that the laughter and footsteps stopped, no wait, they were still at the intersection, and I could hear faint whispering. “Not that way. Turn back.” I look in the three different directions and decide to ignore the whispers and choose to go right this time. “I really do not like this, where the hell am I?” I ask myself as I run. I realized that everything was starting to get darker, and all the more scary, as I started to slow down, looking around and stopped, hanging on the walls were pictures, well more like paintings, each one showing ponies and monsters? No, not monsters, but something else, they looked familiar but I couldn’t figure out where I have seen them before. I accidentally bumped into something and looked and saw it was a door, with the words 'Turn back! Death lives here! Nightmares begin!' I looked at the door, and immediately turned to go back, only to freeze when the lights at the end of the hallway started to go out, even my glow was starting to dim, and I wasn’t even making it dim. I looked at the probably death door, and the rapidly darkening hallway, and made my decision. I open the door and rush inside and close the door and pant before turning around and looking around. “Now did I jump into the frying pan or fire?” I then see the room was well-lit, and it didn’t look the least bit horrifying, in fact, it was actually pretty nice, there was a piano in the center of the room, and a few paintings that looked friendly, I then heard something fall, looking over I saw a canvas, a blank canvas at that, walking over to it. The closer I get the more the blank canvas changes first it was a picture of a person in the woods, then it changed to a battle between some sort of creature and another creature, then it changed again, what I can assume were ponies were currently running in fear of a giant destroying a village, then it continued to change, showing me various monsters terrorizing ponies, it just kept showing me these images, and I swear I could hear whispering, until, it stopped. I frown and scratch my chin. “I swear these creatures look familiar, but I just can't remember why.” I lightly hit my head trying to think. Then I saw the canvas start to change again, but instead of images, there were words. “My claws sharper than the sharpest blade, my teeth like scythes, for those who wish to show their enemies true fear, you need only let me out.” I read the writing, watching as the words then turned into an all too familiar picture, the jak-0-lantern like smile and blood-red eyes were not hard to recognize as the image of Gwen, the image of how Ponies saw her. “Jake!” I look around for the source of the voice. “Who's there?” I look back to the canvas. Only to see it was gone, the whole thing gone, I then noticed a bit of movement and looked and saw the canvas, just hanging on the wall, the same image of Gwen staring at me, a shadow around it even though the area had plenty of lights, I slowly backed up, my eyes never leaving the painting, “Run!” The lights then went out. “Nope! So much nope!” My aura lights up again and I run for the door. Only to see the door was gone! My aura then started to dim, but I saw that there was a flashlight, quickly grabbed it, and tried to turn it on, only for it to not work, panic rising as my aura was soon gone. “This is like a….a nightmare.” I say finally realizing this is a dream space. I close my eyes and will my aura back and stronger than ever filling the room with pink healing light.  Only to hear something creak behind me, followed by growling, quickly turned around only to see nothing, “Whatever you are, I’m not scared of you. So show yourself.” I said, looking around, seeing nothing I turned around again. Only for the demonic image of Gwen to screech in my face, sending me flying and hitting the wall, I watched as it stomped towards me, I threw the flashlight at it, hitting its head, and saw the door, I then ran out of the room. Its screech still echoed around me as I ran. I frown and run faster, starting to bend the dream to my will, and reach out for a door to appear and I open it, go through before I slam it closed adding a pink glow to it. “There, that should hold off her nightmare self, now then.” I look around. “Gwen, it's jake come out please.” There was banging on the door, followed by the nightmares screech, I glared at the door, willing it to stay closed when I felt a hand suddenly covered my mouth as I was dragged into a closet. “Stay quiet, and maybe it won’t find you again.” I heard Gwen say. “You think this is the Dream Space but it’s not, it wants you to think that.” A loud crashing sound was heard as I saw through the cracks of the closet door the nightmare walking in, looking around. “Whisper, don’t speak loudly.” I nod and cross my arms looking through the crack then back to Gwen. “This is inside Alien X, isn't it? I must be astral projecting and accidentally ended up in your head.” I whisper just loud enough for Gwen to hear me. She nodded her head, her eyes never leaving the creature outside the closet doors. “Yes, and you must leave at once, 'cause once it finds you…..” She then went quiet as the nightmare got close to the closet, then walked away. “You’ll never be the same again.” I look at the door and frown. “You have just as much control here as her, right?” I whisper coming up with a plan. “Not here I don’t, we are in its territory now, and the only way out is through the door that keeps it from ever coming out.” Gwen said. “Jake, we need to get you through that door, it doesn’t care about me, so it will come after you.” I have a theory but want to hear it from her. “What is she?” I ask in a soft voice and put a hand on her shoulder a small glow coming from my palm. She just remained silent. “I don’t know if it’s a demon or something else, all I know is that it is a terrible thing to ever walk the face of Equestria.” Gwen said, breathing hard. “I don’t know if it was a failed magic spell or a dark creation of black magic, but I know it’s some monster….a monster that won’t stop till it gets what it wants.” I frown and close my eyes. “I see...Gwen, do you trust me?” I ask as I stand up and face the door. “I do Jake, but……” Gwen said, just as the nightmare screeched again, tossing something against the wall. “I’m scared.” I nod and put a hand on Gwen's shoulder. “Then believe there is a chance you can be good.” I then open the door and walk out and start glowing again only focusing on healing.  “Gwen you can come here, I am your friend.'' When I see the shadow run at me I open my arms and catch her in a hug letting my healing glow brighten. “You aren't a monster anymore Gwen you need to forgive yourself.” The shadow didn’t move, but eventually hugged me back, I looked and see Gwen with a sad look on her face. “Jake, this thing isn’t what I see myself…….it’s something I’m keeping imprisoned.” She said, tears in her eyes. “So it doesn’t get what it wants….. others' pain and fear.” The nightmare screeched as its claws scratched me, I flinched as I am scratched but I kept hugging. “Gwen, she is a part of you, you need to come together. She was your past mistakes, you can't deny she was ever a part of you, accept her and grow as a person or keep her locked away till she breaks free and goes on a rampage because you haven't grown and learned from the past.” I sigh and pat the shadows back.  “I'm not trying to scald you, but you need to hear this.” I let go of the hug and held out my hand to the scared Gwen. “From what I see, you are the part of Gwen that is a scared girl trying to hide from her mistakes, while she is your anger and pain.” She kept staring at me then looked at the nightmare version of herself, which still clawed at me and screeching, Gwen hesitantly took a step forward but immediately turned away. “I’m sorry I just can’t do it!” The nightmare soon got free and sent me back a bit, growling at me as it pounced, only for a chair to hit it as Gwen grabbed my arm and ran, the whole time I could see the tears in her eyes.  I sigh and run with Gwen and say. “Gwen, please promise to think about what I said, I am sure I am right.” “Jake, you’re not right! I can never forgive that thing for what it did!” Gwen said the nightmare’s screeching not too far behind us. “That thing is the reason why Crazy was born, the reason why all those innocents died! I’d rather lock it away than accept it as a part of me!” I shake my head and frown. “Then history will repeat itself, it is only a part of yourself just because you accept her as your mistakes does not make what she..you did right. By accepting the past you can move to the future.” We make a turn. “I have a gut feeling that she is your pain and anger, while you are your fear and regret, so where is the rest of you, Gwen?” I ask as we get back to the first room I entered.   She doesn’t answer as she barricades the door where we walked in from, the nightmare banging against it, Gwen then starts looking for a way out. “It has to be here! It has to!” She said. I sigh and make my aura brighter. “What are you looking for...fear.” “The door to get out of here! Otherwise, that thing is going to kill you!” Gwen or Fear said, just as the nightmare banged against the door, small cracks forming. “That thing got rid of it. That damn thing knew we were gonna come back!” “Then let me try something.” I walked to the barricaded door and put a hand on it. “Anger...please let us out, I wish to speak with the rest of Gwen, I promise to try to help you pull yourselves together, I just ask for a chance.” The banging stopped for a few seconds before it continued. “Jake!” I heard Fear say and I looked and saw the door appearing. “The damn thing actually listened?! No, it’s a trick!” “Thank you, Anger.” I say to the door and then I take Fear’s hand and walk through the exit having faith in my friend. I heard crashing and looked behind us and saw Anger had gotten through, but it just glared at us as we left, the door slowly closing behind us and locking. I looked forward and saw we were in the hallway that first brought me to Anger’s domain. I look to Fear. “Ok, now please start talking and take me to the other pieces of you.” “I told you everything I know!” Fear said, giving the door one last look before quickly walking away. I put a hand on her shoulder as I walked with her. “Fear, I get that you are scared but the complete Gwen trusts me, so give me a chance and take me to the others.” Fear looked at me, then nodded her head. “This way.” She said as we began to walk through the halls, eventually reaching the first area I had walked in. “This is where we hang out, most of us anyway.”   “I see, how many of you are there? Is the complete Gwen here too?” I ask as I look around. I heard footsteps followed by the same laughter that chased me to Anger. “Well, I see you already met one of us when you first arrived.” Fear said, just as another Gwen fell out of a hole in the ceiling, still laughing, this Gwen was like a hyperactive child, her hair was all crazy and she had dirt stains on her.  I smile softly. “I'm guessing you are either happiness or the one called crazy.” I said to her. “Who’s crazy? Not me!” She said, laughing. “But yeah, I’m Crazy alright!” I roll my eyes and cross my arms. “Well...thank you, if you hadn't of chased me, I never would have known Gwen was suppressing her anger.”  I sigh and look at more footsteps.  The next Gwen to appear kinda reminded me a bit of Blue Diamond from how sad she looked. “Um, w-who is that?” She said, hiding behind Fear, which meant this Gwen was her sadness and her shyness. I gently hold my hand out. “It’s me Jake, it's nice to meet you sad Gwen.” She hesitantly shook my hand. “I-it’s nice to meet you t-too Jake.” She said. I nod and ask. “So that's Fear, Anger, Happiness, and now sadness. Who else is here? Maybe logic?” “Oh, you mean a smart Gwen? Well, that would be the one who is mostly in control of Alien X so she won’t be here!” Crazy said. “And I’m not happiness I’m craziness!” She then laughed, and I just rolled my eyes.  “I see, well could you gather any that aren't here right now? I want to speak to you all about anger.” I say as I start to float in a crossed-leg position. Crazy laughed as she jumped up and climbed into a vent. “HEY!! We have a visitor! Get your fat butts moving on the double!!” I heard her shout in the vent as she moved away. A few minutes later, a couple more Gwens showed up, one looked to be extremely happy, just not as hyper as Crazy, meaning that Gwen was Happiness, the other Gwen however was giving me a loving look which meant that Gwen was love. “Well, looks like Crazy was right. We do have a visitor.” The Love Gwen said, walking over to me. “So, Jake I believe your name was, how did you get here in Gwen’s mind?” I nod to her and say. “Yes jake is my name, and one of my gem powers is to astral project into other people, now is every Gwen here...I mean besides logic.” “We are just waiting for Crazy to get out of the vents.” Happiness said, just as Crazy came out of a vent from the wall beside me. “There she is.” I nod and look at all of them. “I asked to see you all because I’m worried that if Gwen keeps anger locked up the way she is, she will eventually blow and go on a rampage in the real world, you are each a part of Gwen that includes Anger, there is a time and place for her yes but to lock her up like this will not work in the long run.”  “Please try to come together, you need to become the whole Gwen again or I fear she may never be fully healed mentally.” I say looking down. All of the Gwens looked at each other before Fear spoke. “It’s not like we don’t want her to be healed, it’s just anger is too monstrous that if we let her out, she’ll cause pain and suffering for others.” She said. “Let me start from the beginning, we were a whole, all of us was just one Gwen, but then she started poking around with things she shouldn’t have and a spell went wrong, and now we are stuck with a literal demon, that demon has taken form in the shape of her anger, we let that thing out. It’ll be like all those years ago when she started those disasters.” I rub my chin and wonder out loud. “If she is a demon then where is the true emotion of anger?” “That thing is anger! The demon had latched onto the anger in Gwen's heart, and trust me, she had a lot of it, why do you think we keep it locked away?” Fear explained. “Think of it like the deadly sin Wrath.” “Hmmm is the Gwen I speak to in the physical world the whole or one of you?” I ask while trying to think of a way to help. “It’s….complicated, she is whole but at the same time, not whole.” Fear said, then Sadness spoke up. “Think of it like looking at a broken mirror.” She said. “Most of the pieces are there, but some are missing, why do you think the only thing she’s shown was insanity? She is too broken so we let Crazy have most of the control.” I look up at them. “Can all of us including Anger, get to where logic is? I have an idea.” They all nod their heads, and proceed to lead me where Logic is, after many twists and turns, we eventually reach a large door, Sadness stepped up to it and knocked, only for it to open and reveal a huge library. “Wow, this is impressive, so I'm guessing she will be in the middle?” I ask as I step into the library. “Be careful, she is very protective of her books.” Happiness said, walking in as well as the others.  “I wasn't planning on touching them.” I say as I walk through the library and look between each group of shelves.  Soon we heard someone talking and followed the voice, reaching what would be the middle of the library, with Logic Gwen surrounded by books, unlike the other Gwens, she wore something a bit different, she had a light purple cloak with the hood up, covering most of her face. “You are late.” She said. “Late? You were expecting me?” I ask as I walk up to her. “But of course, you are here about the mental illness that has befallen Gwen Tennyson, otherwise known as Gwen 10.” Logic said, not even looking at us. “One could easily tell why you had come to my domain. At least one with the vast amount of knowledge that is.” I wiggle my hand in a so-so gesture. “Kinda, I came mostly to see if it is possible to use my healing aura and Gwen's magic to split Anger from the demon.”  “Ah yes, Anger, I know it fully well, you made the right choice coming to me, for you see, ever since the one known as Crazy took over Gwen, I wasn’t needed that much so I spent my days researching, but enough about that, the answer to your question is no.” Logic said. “The demon has been attached for so long that its very being has merged with Gwen, and no thanks to those Elements of Harmony trying to remove it, it only latched on tighter to Gwen. So can you use your healing powers and Gwen's magic to remove the demon? No.” I sigh and cross my arms in thought. “Hmmm, then what can I do to help Gwen? I think I did get through to Anger for a few moments, she accepted my hug and even made the door reappear and let me and Fear leave.”  “She let you leave? I see, that demon is very tricky, it could have left a piece of it on you so that way when you return to your body it could possess you.” Logic said. “The only reason why it would accept a hug is for it to place a piece of it onto you. Of course, this is all a theory. I sigh and look at my hand. “But if that is true then why not just act like she was the Gwen I know and get me that way?” “Most likely because you are the first person to ever appear in Gwen's head.” Logic said. “Either that, or it didn’t care for acting to trick you.” “Maybe, so there is nothing I can do to help put Gwen together safely?” I look back up to Logic. “Safely? No, but there is a way to separate the demon from her, but it will be harmful to her.” Logic said, putting down her book and grabbing a different one, and showed it to me, the book was a dark purple with a small red gem in the center. Opening it, I saw that it was a book by Raven. My eyes widen. “Raven is an expert in demons of course! Wait that was only the tv Raven. Is the displaced able to do it? And what can I do?” I look back up at logic.  “All you have to do is help her find the necessary things she needs to separate the demon from Gwen. Raven is an expert in magic, so it stands to reason she’ll know a bit about demons as well, considering who her father is.” Logic said. I nod and hold the book tighter. “What does she need?” “Not a clue, I may be Logic, but even I can’t predict what the sorceress would need to help Gwen.” Logic said. “You’ll have to ask her yourself, though I’m sure she will have most of the things she needs with her.” I nod and look at all the Gwens. “If Raven can help, you all will fuse back together, I just hope Gwen can live with herself after what happened.” I remember something and ask. “By the way which one of you sent that note to me after my visit?” All of the Gwens looked at each other before Logic sighed. “We...all did, it was the one moment that we all got together again, it was only for a moment but we sent that note together before we split once more.” I nod and scratch my chin. “I see, well I will do my best to help you all.” I say as I smile at them. They all smiled as well. “Thanks, we hope you succeed.” Fear said. “But please hurry 'cause Anger is really scary and nearly free!” I nod and sigh. “Maybe I should figure out how to get back to my body. Then I can wake Raven, and tell her what she needs to do.” “Crazy can take you to the exit of this place.” Sadness said. “She knows a ton of exits that we had to block off in order to keep Anger from getting free.” I nod and smile softly. “Hopefully by the time I summon you back Gwen will be whole.”  I then looked at Crazy. “I'm ready.” “Okie dokie loki!” Crazy said, laughing, as we left the library, Crazy humming a happy tune. I chuckle and smile at her happy attitude. “Will Gwen remember any of this?”  “No clue! Her mind is a huge mess ever since that demon tried possessing her, and since I showed up as well.” Crazy replied.  “Well, if you have control of Gwen please be a hero. Think of it like this, the more Gwen is a monster and seen as one, the more powerful the demon will be, while if she is seen as a hero it may get weaker.” I tell her as we walk through the hallways. Crazy gave a pout. “Aaaaaaw, but if I do that, then I won’t have any fun!” she said, as we stopped in front of a wall. “You can have fun while still being a hero, just be creative and unpredictable against the bad guys, plus you can have a bunch of fun by making fun of the bad guys and as I said before a mad bad guy, is a dumb bad guy.” I wink and point at her with a finger gun. “I don’t know…...ah who cares, messing with bad guys sounds like fun!” Crazy said, drawing a door with a marker, then knocked on it twice as the drawing opened, revealing the dark space that I was first in. I pat her back. “Thank you.” I then step through the door and find myself in the dark again. “You’re welcome, good luck on trying to fix the others! Even if it might destroy me as well!” She said, and when I turned to look at her in shock, the building was gone, the sound of Crazy’s laughter still echoing around me, which either meant Gwen woke up, or somehow, the house moved. I sigh but smile. ’Even though they are parts of her they all care for Gwen more than themselves, Gwen has the heart of a hero.’ I think to myself and close my eyes and try to wake up. When I woke up, I looked around and saw that I was back in my room. “Damn, that was one hell of an experience.” I get out of bed and form my clothes back on and head out my door. I walk down the hallway to Raven's door and knock, once she opens it I simply say. “I know how to help Gwen.” > Chapter 10 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Raven gave me a confused look, as well as a tired look, “Oh, and what do you mean by that?” She asked me.  “I mean I know what made Gwen snap all those years ago and YOU are the key to fixing her!” I say with a big grin and pointed at her. She had her eyes close as she leaned on the doorway. “That’s nice.” she said yawning, as she closed the door, only to immediately open it again, wide-eyed and awake. “Wait WHAT?!” I nod and smile. “I have an ability that lets me enter other people's minds when I sleep and I get pulled into her head, to make a long and scary story short Gwen’s mind is split into emotional fragments, and Anger is fused with a demon. Also, mind scanning me in case it left part of itself on me?”  “Sure, just give me a minute,” her hand glowed dark purple as the same glow covered my body, she frowned as I felt something being pulled from me, then a small orb came out of my chest, blood-red eyes glaring at me. “Yeah, that thing definitely left this on you.” We looked at it for a moment before I shook my head and heard Raven mumble something. The orb shook as she kept mumbling then there was a blinding flash and when I could see again I saw Raven had destroyed it. “Wow, I guess I was tricked, I had thought at the time it was just the embodiment of Gwen's anger and pain so I offered a hug and actually did hug me but I guess that was just a trick to put that on me.” I was surprised.  “Demons are very tricky things, it’s best to always be cautious of them.” Raven said, sighing, “Tell me this plan and how am I the key to fixing her after I got into my normal attire.” That's when I noticed she was just wearing a robe instead of her usual attire. I blush lightly and look away. “Sorry, um well Gwen's Logic said you were the key because Raven knows all about demons, so maybe you do too.” “Well that’s true, ever since I got sent to Equestria, I decided to do some research on the subject in case some sort of demon appeared.” Raven said, “Now if you excuse me, I need to change so that way we can talk.” “Right I’ll be in the living room.” I say then head to the living room. I then put my hand on the control panel and made a hole open up right into Amethyst's room. Looking down into it I called out. “Amethyst, I need the replicator.” Soon enough, the Replicator was thrown to me, I easily caught it, and looked down again. “Thanks, Amethyst!” I wave at her as she goes off to do something else and set it down on a table before closing the hole. “I love this room.” “I’ll have to agree.” Raven said as she walked over, back in her normal attire. “So, what is this plan of yours?” “Well, to be honest, I am only doing what I was told would help her, getting your help, from what the other Gwens have told me, the demon fused with her embodiment of anger and fueled her rampages but when the royal sisters tried to remove it using the elements of harmony it only latched on even tighter.” I explain everything I know.   My eyes widen. “Oh I'm not sure if it makes a difference but two more things, first this all happened when Gwen was messing around with a spell and two the demon looks kinda like how the ponies see her, check their books and you'll see what I mean if you haven't already.” “Blood red eyes, jack-o-lantern like smile?” she asked me, I nod. “Exactly, is that a demon or just what it chose to show itself as?”  “Hmmm, hard to tell really, it could be what it chose to look like, or it could be a demon that takes the form of its host.” Raven said, holding her chin. “But enough about why it looks like Gwen. What is your plan to help her?” I sigh and order a cup of hot chocolate. “Like I said, my only plan was to ask you about demons, if we can find a way to get the demon out of her then maybe my healing powers can start her mental recovery.” Raven nodded her head, “Well, the demons I had encountered time from time are all evil beings, either wanting to conquer the world/universe or cause suffering to others.” Raven said, “This demon is most likely trying to cause suffering to others.” “Yeah, that lines up with what the Gwens said, the problem is it is getting stronger, and almost got loose when I was in her mind.” I frown and look down. “I think Gwen is running out of time.” Raven nodded, “I see, then we have to do something fast. I can separate the two, but it might hurt Gwen.”  I nod. “Logic Gwen also said that we should first get Gwen out of alien x just to be safe, but after that what can I do?” “You just do what I tell you, this type of thing is a very tricky thing to do, especially if the demon is latched onto Gwen for so long.” Raven said, “I’ll also need some materials.” I motion to the replicator. “Go ahead and make anything you need.”  “Right, you just get Gwen, I’ll meet you later.” Raven said, “Right, well I'll go check on Gwen then.” I stand up and walk to Gwen's door and knock. A moment later, Gwen opened the door, but she was no longer Alien X, “Hi Jake!” she said happily, a huge smile on her face. “What’s up?” I smile and wave. “Hey, Gwen do you remember anything from last night?” “Hmmmmmmmmm, nope!” she said, “Not a darn thing!” I sigh and hold out my hand. “I think me and Raven found a way to help you, but it will hurt, do you trust me?”  “Of course I do!” she said, “Why wouldn’t I?” I smile and lead her back to Raven. “Gwen is up, should we do this outside?” “That would be a good idea.” Raven said, a dark orb floating beside her, “I got the necessary items that are needed.” I nod and take them back outside and we head out to the courtyard and see a few amethysts. “Sorry, but we need this area for now.” “What? But why?” one of them asked, “We are going to be doing something dangerous and I don't want any of you getting caught in the crossfire by accident.” I told them as I frowned. “If we screw up one of you could become corrupted.” “No way I’m getting corrupted!” the Amethysts then left, “Just tell us when we can come back!” I sigh and look down. “I Hate scaring them.” I look back at Raven. “What now?” “Now, you hold this until I tell you what to do with it.” Raven said, handing me the orb. I hold it and look down at it. “Ok, I'll try my best.” I look back at them. Raven nodded as her hands started glowing, a rune appearing right where Gwen was standing, a few sparks came off of it as Gwen started to float into the air, I looked up and saw that thunder clouds had appeared as lightning danced across the sky. I bite my lip trying not to distract them as I watch but I do make some Hexagonal shields surrounding the area to stop any gems from coming in. The glow around Raven's hands then shot out to Gwen, I watched as half of her now resembled Anger, Raven then looked to me, the orb disappearing to reveal some sort of blade, except I can tell there was some sort of energy. I look over the sword, then at Raven. “What now?” I ask making sure not to move just in case. “The sword is made with a type of energy that can separate the demon, it won’t kill her, but it will sting like hell!” Raven said, then I saw that the ground the rune was on was starting to crack. “Just cut her in half already!” I nod and jump over to Gwen and swing the sword down cutting her in half. “Done!”  I yell over Gwen’s screams of pain. “AZARATH METRION ZINTHOS!!” Raven shouted, then a bright flash, that could most likely be seen from Canterlot, blinded me. Once it was gone, I looked and saw Gwen was passed out on the ground. I blink my eyes as I walk up to Gwen and put a hand on her. “Did we do it? Is she free?” I heard Raven groan as I looked and saw that she had a dark slime-like substance in her magic,  “Yeah, she’s free, this little bastard is no longer a bother to her.” she said, frowning at the demon. I nod and lick my fingers and rub Gwen’s forehead then stand up and walk over to Raven looking at the demon. “So that was the cause of all the trouble?” “Yep, and I realized what kind of demon this is.” Raven said, “It’s a parasite, that likes the pain and suffering of others. It always goes for the strongest host it can find, and thanks to the Omnitrix, Gwen is the strongest host.” I frown and cross my arms. “So it is similar to nightmare moon?” “Worse than her, Nightmare Moon mostly focused on Luna’s emotions instead of its own desires, but this thing thinks for itself.” Raven explained. I shiver and hug myself as the shields drop. “It feels cold even from here, how are you gonna get rid of it?”  I ask and hear a groan from behind me and look to see Gwen moving. “W-what happened?” she asked, then she went wide-eyed, “I’m not hearing constant thoughts of pranks, or destroying things. But how?!” I smile and kneel down and put a hand on her shoulder. “Gwen, welcome back to sanity, I probably haven't fully healed you but I did put the pieces back together in one room, now it's up to you and your friends.”  Gwen had tears in her eyes as she smiled, then hugged me, “T-thank you! Thank you so much!” she said, I smile and hug her back and pat her back. “Your welcome Gwen, anything for a friend.” I then helped her stand as she looked around as if seeing the world for the first time, “Wow, it's much more different when I’m sane.” she said,  I pat her back. “I think you should take some time and rest with friends, no Omnitrix for a week.” I say as I wag my finger like a doctor scolding his patient. “Yeah, I could use a break from it anyway.” Gwen said, then frowned, “I can’t believe after so long, I’m finally sane, no more thoughts of messing with everyone, it’s so different now. But there is one thing I’m gonna miss.” “What's that?” I ask as I walk Gwen over to the table. “Raven, go ahead and take care of IT and I’ll watch over Gwen.” Raven nodded as she walked away, just as Gwen spoke, “Crazy, even though she kept messing with the ponies, she still helped me when we were ALien X, she kept me from feeling sad all the time.” she said, smiling. I pat Gwen's back and smile sadly. “She may still be a part of alien x, we don't know. but even if she isn't that just means she fulfilled her purpose and kept you from falling deeper into madness.” I then look up at the morning sky. “You can always keep her memory in your heart and play small pranks now and then.” Gwen smiled, “Thanks Jake.” she said, I smile then my eyes widen. “Crap!” I jump off the table and run to the temple door. “Sorry, Gwen I forgot to wake Star ruby!” I open the door and chuckle sheepishly seeing her waiting at the door. “Um, h-hi Star.” “Hi.” she said, looking down at the floor. “I'm sorry, I was just in a hurry because me and raven found out how to help Gwen get better.” I hug Star and feel the warmth in my chest again.  “It’s fine, I know you like to help others in need, just maybe let me know when you are leaving next time?” Star said, hugging me back, I nod and smile at her. “Of course. Come on, you can say bye to my friends before they leave.”  I take her hand and lead her back to Gwen and I see Raven is back. When we got to them, I can see Gwen, who was in her four arms form, and Garnet were currently fighting, though from their grins I can tell it was a quick sparring session, both of them trying to land a blow on the other, but it was like fighting a mirror, their fists kept connecting and thanks to Garnets speed, she was able to block all of Gwen's fists. I step up next to Raven. “Wow, those two are having fun, but what happened to no Omnitrix for a week?” “She couldn’t help it, she wanted to test out at least one alien to see how strong she was.” Raven replied, just as Gwen grabbed Garnet's arms with two of her arms and threw her into a tree. I flinch and shake my head. “Just make sure she takes it easy for a bit ok? What did you do with that thing anyway?” “Let’s just say it won’t bother anyone ever again.” Raven said, “And that’s all I’m gonna say.” I shrug and smile watching the match start back up. “As long as you didn't just throw it into space, I'm fine with whatever you did.” Soon after a few minutes of watching the two fight, they eventually stopped, both with smiles on their faces. “Man, that one heck of a fight, wouldn’t you agree?” Gwen asked Garnet. Garnet nods with a smile and holds her fist up for Gwen to fist bump. “Not bad, for a human.” “Ok ladies, I think it's time Gwen and Raven head home but, first.” I type out a message and send it to Ship and after a minute I get a reply. “Either of you have your phones or something that can hold data?” “I do.” Raven said, holding up a phone, “Though our Equestria isn’t advanced enough for phones to work yet.” “That's fine, here.” I hand her my phone with the information on its screen. “The blueprint for the replicator I'm sure with a few different alien transformations it will be possible to recreate it.” “Thanks, this will make getting certain things easier.” Raven said, “Like food, supplies, and items for spells.” “Yeah, I figured I should give you something seeing as the last displaced I met gave me something.” I say with a smile and watch as she sends the blueprints from my phone to hers.  “Say now that you are Raven, are all her spells those same three words?” I ask, raising an eyebrow. “Yeah they are, it’s a bit of a pain, but it makes my enemies confused about what spell I’m using.” she said, “Gwen on the other hand, says the spell's name instead.” “Oh? I wonder if I could learn either of your versions of magic, I know I can learn changeling magic while I'm a changeling but I haven't even started to try if I can learn magic in base form.” I tell her as I start thinking out loud. “Hmmm, I need to check in with Peridot soon too.” “I can leave you a couple of my spell books for you to learn from.” Raven said, “And maybe a bit of my magic to help as well.” “Same here, well except for the spell books.” Gwen said, changing back to normal, “Now that I’m sane again, I can focus on my magic.” I nod and grin. “Cool! And maybe next time we meet we can see who has the better magic tricks.” I give her a thumbs up.  “Yeah, like anyone could beat me.” Raven said, smirking, “But you are welcome to try.” I roll my eyes. “I was talking to Gwen.” I chuckle and smile. “You ladies ready to go home?” I ask as Raven gives me my phone back. “Yep. I got some apologizing to do for my Celestia and Luna, as well as all of Ponyville.” Gwen said,  “Yeah, and I got some magic studying to do as well.” Raven said, “Though I believe only Gwen can send me back, as she was the one who summoned me first.” “Oh right, I almost got you stuck here.” I laugh and rub the back of my head.  “It’s fine.” Raven said, and from her cloak, she pulled out a book and handed it to me, “One of my spell books, filled with beginner spells. And of course a spark of my magic.” she placed her hand on my chest as it glowed a bit. “There, you now have access to my type of magic.” “My turn.” Gwen said, placing her hand on my chest as well, a pink glow covered her hand then my body, then it disappeared. “There, now you have access to two types of magic.” “So cool! Thanks!” I say with a grin then hear some angry huffing and look back to see a mad Star ruby. “I think somebody doesn’t like other girls touching her boyfriend.” Gwen teased,  I blush and look back at Gwen. “well you would be too if you were her.” I reach over and hold Star’s hand. “Well, I'll see you two sometime soon. Gwen say the thing please.” “Right, our contract is complete, return to your lair once more.” Gwen said to Raven, just as the familiar swirling portal appeared, and just as Raven was about to enter it she turned to look at me. “Good luck Jake, and see you someday..” she said then entered, the portal closing behind her. I look at Gwen with a smile. “Well, Gwen I hope I did help a lot and will get better soon.” I put a hand on her shoulder. “Gwen our contract is complete but you are always welcome here.” A portal appeared under her, and she looked at it in shock. “I feel like this is payback for the first time you came to my Equestria.” she said, “Maybe!” I yell at her with a smirk as she falls through the portal. I chuckle and shake my head. “Good luck Gwen.” I then turn and walk to the temple door and see one of the amethyst. “The courtyard is safe now, have fun just don't get too busy. I may ask you all to move somewhere for a bit.”  “Thanks man.” the Amethyst said, running to the courtyard. I shake my head with a smile and open the temple door to the lab and walk in. “Peridot you in here?” I ask as I look around. “Yes, as well as Pearl and miss Sparkle.” I heard her say back, as I followed where the voice came from and saw the three. “Hey you three, I am wondering if there is a way you could make a device for Star ruby here, to open the temple door to my room?” I asked Peridot while showing her Star ruby who is shyly hiding behind me. “Hmmmmm, it could be possible. It might take some time because Gems never thought organics would be able to use or tech.” Peridot said, “So it might be a while.” I nod in understanding. “Ok, I understand. But I need everyone out of the castle for a moment I'm going to try something with my newest transformation but...well it may be a little risky.” I tell them. “What transformation could possibly require all of us out of the castle?” Pearl asked, I chuckle nervously. “You remember that Alien I told you about? The one that can change reality around it?” I ask, giving hints. “You mean that one alien Gwen turned into?!” Pearl asked, going wide-eyed. “Alien Rex or X?” I nod and point at Pearl. “Yeah, alien x, I plan on asking them to fix the whole castle, but I also want to meet them and try to get them to understand I don't want to use their powers unless it is the only choice, but I still need to use their power at least once to meet them.”  I explain my thinking.  I see Pearl starting to panic so I hold up a hand. “Pearl, look the worst that can happen is they won't let me out, if that happens just press the bottom half of the Omnitrix.” I show her the faceplate. “And it will change me back.” “A-alright Jake, I...I trust you.” she said nervously. I nod and smile. “Ok get everyone out of the castle and once everyone is safe I'll transform.” I say then I remember something and pull out the paperwork. “Also you need to fill these out, apparently I am still young enough that I need to go to school.” Pearl nodded her head as she grabbed the paperwork, “Well, this could take some time filling out.” she said,  I nod the shrug with a smirk. “Take your time.” Then I leave the temple and wait on the bridge. ‘I Really hope I can do this.’ I see that the Gems, including Twilight and Star had left the castle, with Pearl giving me a thumbs up, letting me know that everyone was out. I take a breath and activate my Omnitrix and turn the dial till I find Alien x and looking at my friends I nod and push the dial down and in a bright pink flash, I change. 3rd POV Pearl covers her eyes from the bright flash and when it settles down she and all the gems look back to see a tall humanoid that resembles the night sky pitch black with spots of stars pink eyes a masculine frame and three horn-like protrusions from his head and the on the tricks on his chest with the yellow star pattern around it. “Jake?” Pearl steps closer but Alien X lifts their head and looks at the castle.  “Motion carried, reconstruction of Everfree castle.” he says in three overlaying voices as he moves his right hand in a circle making a ring of energy then pushes it forward sending waves of energy at the castle and then as if time was flowing in reverse the castle starts pulling itself back together walls reconstructing themselves would returning to brand new glass pulling itself together and reassembling all damage is removed as if it never happened and the plants are regressed and did nothing but seeds. After Alien X finished the castle was like brand new and he lowered his arm and stood straight with his eyes facing forward. Pearl just stared at Alien X, hoping that Jake would make some sort of movement, but never did. Then Alien X turns to face Pearl and pats her head. “You have grown into a wonderful person.” Pearl’s eyes widen when she hears the voices.  “Those voices. I-it can’t be.” Pearl said, shocked,  Alien X reaches up and presses the Omnitrix and in a flash of pink Jake is back to himself. “That was one heck of an experience.” he said rubbing his head. Jake’s POV I looked at Pearl, who just stared in shock. “J-Jake, Alien X, I-I heard….” she said, I sigh and put a hand on her shoulder. “I'll tell you what happened, but please breath and relax.” I then look at the rest of the stunned faces of the gems, Star, and Twilight. “The rest of you can go explore the castle but please don't destroy it.” They all nodded their heads and ran to the castle, Twilight especially, I then turned to Pearl. I hold her hand. “Pearl what I'm going to tell you is a bit hard to explain but, Parts of Pink and Steven are alive as the other two personalities inside alien x.” I close my eyes. “This is what happened when I transformed,”  jake’s POV inside Alien X a few moments ago I open my eyes from the flash and see nothing but blackness and start off in the distance. “Wow, so this is Alien X.” ”Hello?” I heard someone say. I turn and my eyes widen as I see Pink diamond and Pink steven standing across from me. “How are you two...wait...are you two the other two parts of Alien X?” ”What do you think?” Pink Steven said, crossing his arms,  "Be nice.” Pink Diamond said, giving Pink Steven a stern look, before she turned to me with a smile, "So, I believe we haven’t met. I’m Pink Diamond.” I nod amazed that I am meeting them. “My name is Jake, and well I suppose I can be considered your successor.” I lift my shirt showing my gem. Pink Diamond stared at me wide eyed, ”W-what?” “He obviously has our gem, which means Steven is dead.” Pink Steven said with his arms still crossed and looking unhappy. “Well...I don't know about that, I just know that I bought the gems of the others and woke up on this world with my gem. I didn't even know you two were still part of the gem.” I tell them and as I tell them windows showing my memories appear and disappear. They both just stared at me, ”That sounds……” Pink Diamond stopped, trying to find words, ”A bit crazy?” I nod and shrug. “Welcome to the life of the displaced, I turned into Alien x to see if I can use the power to fix the old castle do you mind?” ”Do we mind what?” Pink Diamond asked me,  “Oh I guess you two don't know how this works, Alien X is a reality-warping alien but all three of us have to agree on something for it to happen. For example, I asked if we can fix the castle, so if you both agree we can do it but if one of you disagrees we can't.” I explain how alien x works to them. Pink Diamond and Pink Steven looked at each other and then back to me, ”Alright!” she said, smiling,  Pink steven however opened a window to show him what was happening outside seeing Pearl looking at us worried. He seems to frown then looks over at the castle. “Fine I can agree, that castle is trash anyway.”  ”Aw, don’t be like that. Sure it needs a little work but it’s not trash.” Pink Diamond said, I nod and we all watch as Alien X lifts his arm and forms a circle and starts repairing the castle. Once it is finished I look back at them. “Thank you both, can I return to myself? I am sorry to say I won't transform into Alien X often, it is too much power for one person.” ”Alright, but before you do, are we able to talk to Pearl?” Pink Diamond asked me, I nod and we look at the window to the outside and Alien X turns to face Pearl. “You have grown into a wonderful person.” her eyes widened when Alien X spoke. “Those voices. I-it can’t be.” Pearl said, shocked,  I look at both of the Pinks. “Thank you, I don't know when I'll see you again but I hope next time I can learn a bit about you two.” I say as I start moving Alien X’s hand to the Omnitrix. ”No problem! And I hope we can see you next time as well.” Pink Diamond said, while Pink Steven just shrugged. “And thats what happened.” I finished telling Pearl and the few that stayed to listen.  “That’s amazing. You saw Pink Diamond.” Amethyst said,  “Y-yes, it is...amazing.” Pearl said, I nod and put a hand on my gem. “I think only the smallest part of them was left over, and the Omnitrix found them and turned them into the other two personalities needed for alien X.” “But does that mean they are alive?” Pearl asked hopefully. I look at her and see the hope and desperation on her face, but I shake my head. “From everything I know about gems and the Omnitrix they could be but most likely they were the leftover fragments of each after I got the gem. Plus the Steven in Alien X is pink Steven, so there is no human half. I’m sorry Pearl.” “Oh….I see.” Pearl said, looking down sadly. I sigh and hug Pearl. “I’m sorry, I know this had to have broken your heart all over again.” “I-it’s fine Jake.” Pearl said, returning the hug with her own, “At least I got to hear their voices again.” I pull away slowly. “I will give you some time, I think I'll bring Star to town to see if we can get her some new clothes.” I say and smile at Star. “Alright, just be safe alright?” Pearl said to me, giving me one more hug before she walked towards the castle. I sigh sadly as Star comes up next to me and puts a hand on my shoulder. “Why is she upset? Who are Pink diamond and Pink steven?” “They are two people who are very important to her.” I said, “Oh, I see. Are you sure it is a good idea to take me into town?” she asks me with a worried expression.  “Don’t worry, I’ll be there with you the whole time.” I said to her, “Ok if you say so.” she says and sticks close to me as we turn and start walking through the forest. “You don't have to do this, you know.” “Of course I do, what kind of person would I be if I don’t help you?” I said to her, blushing a bit from how close she was to me. She looks forward and leans her head on my shoulder. She was quiet for the whole trip and it was a nice walk. Soon we make it to the town and I point to the library. “Spike could know where we can go.”  “Or you could just ask me.” we turned and saw Twilight had followed us, “Honestly, I’m a bit hurt that you forgot I was at the castle.” I chuckle a bit. “You looked so excited to explore the refurbished castle I was gonna let you have some fun.” I told her. “But seeing as you are here, where can we go to get some clothes?” “That would be Rarity’s Boutique, I can take you two there if you want.” Twilight said,  “I'd love that, thank you miss Twilight.” I say with a grin. “No problem, just follow me.” Twilight said, leading the two of us to the destination. We walk for a while and I gently squeeze Star’s hand when I see she is nervous. She smiles at me and Twilight asks me. “So who is this? I don’t think I’ve met her.” “I-I’m Star R-Ruby.” Star said, “That is a lovely name, are you an undiscovered type of pony?” Twilight asks as we walk through town. “Actually Twilight, she is what's called a changeling, but if ponies have any records of them, don't judge her on their actions.” I tell her as we walk up to a tall two-floor building that is shaped like a carousel. “Changeling? Hmmmmmm.” Twilight said, holding her chin in thought, “I’m trying to think if I’ve heard of them before, but I’m coming up with nothing.” “That's because we have been hiding from almost everyone, most see us as monsters because of what we eat.”  Star says looking down but I hug her close as I knock on the door. “Coming!” we heard Rarity’s voice say from the other side, before she opened it, “Oh, hello darlings, what brings you here?” “Hello, miss rarity I was hoping to get my..” I blush and look at Star before building the courage. “My girlfriend, some new clothes.” “I see someone is a little shy in saying girlfriend.” Rarity said,  “I think you may be right Rarity.” Twilight said as the two started to tease me a little,  I blush and look away from them frowning. “Sh...she is my first girlfriend ok? Can you help us or not?” “Well, I suppose I can make one or two more outfits.” she said, opening the door to let us in.  “Thank you miss Rarity.” we walk inside but Rarity stops me and points to the couch as she takes Star upstairs.  “Sorry, darling but this is for girls only right now, oh and Twilight, I believe Pinkie wanted your help at the Library.”  Rarity said as she and Start go up the stairs I sit down on the couch. Twilight wishes me luck and leaves. “Hi.” I heard someone say and looked and saw a teenage filly in a light purple dress, with curly pink and purple hair. I blink surprised to see someone around my age. “Oh um hi, my name is jake who are you?” “I’m Sweetie Belle, Rarity’s sister.” Sweetie Belle said, sitting on the couch next to me, “So what brings you to the Boutique?” “I'm just getting some clothes for someone important to me.” I tell her with a shy smile.  “O-oh, and who is this important person?” she asked,  I smile and look to the stairs. “She is my girlfriend, we just met but...I feel a strong pull to her.” “Oh, that’s nice to hear.” Sweetie Belle, and for a second, I thought she sounded a bit disappointed but thought it was my imagination. I nod and rub my neck. “Yeah I'm a bit nervous about messing it up, it's my first relationship.” I told her. I smile and check my phone as I wait on Star. “Well, don’t worry about messing up.” Sweetie Belle said, “Everyone makes mistakes.” I look over to Sweetie bell and nod. “I guess that's true thanks.” I go back to waiting and soon Rarity and Star come back and Star is wearing a beautiful dress. “wow.” I see Star blush as well, “D-do you like it?” she asked me, “Yeah!” I say as I stand up with a smile. “You look beautiful.” “Yes I do believe that dress fits her perfectly, oh Sweetie, be a dear and go help Twilight at the library.” Rarity says with a smile. “Sure thing Rarity.” Sweetie Belle said, walking out of the Boutique. I watch her leave then turn to Rarity and smile. “Thank you Miss Rarity, is there anything I can do for you?” Rarity thought for a moment then nodded her head, “I can design some clothes for you as well Jake.” she said, I scratch my cheek. “Well I suppose, I could use some winter clothes when it gets close to that time of year.” I say then nod to Rarity.  Rarity clapped her hands. “Excellent!” she said happily. And in the next hour, Rarity had made me and Star some clothes, I left with a bag of clothes and Star ruby. We head to the library, when I open the door it's pitch black and Star grabs my arm as I feel for the lights before they flip on, and what seems like the whole town yells. “surprise!” The moment I turned on the lights, the Mane 6, along with Sweetie Belle and two other fillies, had all shouted as a banner hung from the ceiling with the words ‘Welcome to Ponyville!’ on it. I blink surprised. “Wow, is this all because I'm new in town?” “Yipperunie! I throw a welcome to ponyville party to every new pony, but you're not a pony but still, you deserve a party so you can make lots of friends and-” Pinkie says all at once till her mouth is covered by Applejack.  “What she is trying to say is that she throws a party for everypony that comes to town, so this is yours, as well as your friends.” Applejack tells me. I smiled, “Thanks guys. But you didn’t need to do all this for us.” I said, “Nonsense, you helped us plenty of times.” Twilight said,  I smile and then say. “Well then before things get into swing let me message my friends.” I pull out my phone and send a text to Pearl telling her about the party and ask her to bring anyone that wants to come. A few minutes later, Pearl had sent a message back saying that Amethyst and a few of the other Amethysts, along with her are on their way. I smirk and look at Twilight. “Seems just the Amethystes are coming.” “Aren’t they the much crazier ones of the Crystal Gems?” Twilight asked me. I wiggle my hand in a so-so gesture. “More like easily excited, but think about what they have been through, they have been working at an um...isolated zoo for thousands of years. Any form of entertainment is like heaven for them.” I smile a bit. When the other teenagers get closer my Omnitrix beeps. “Genetic damage detected.” it continues to beep. “Genetic what?” Scootaloo asked, looking confused. Just before I can answer, my Omnitrix fires a beam of pink energy at Scootaloo surprising me and everyone. I grab my arm trying to move it away but the Omnitrix won’t stop. “What do you think you are doing!” Rainbow said as she jumped at me and punched me in the face knocking me to the ground. I block her next punch and then make a bubble shield around myself. She just kept punching and kicking the shield until Applejack pulled her back, “What the hell you doing Dash?!” she asked her friend,  “His freaky device did something to Scootaloo!” Rainbow said, struggling. I get up and stay in my bubble then look over to Scootaloo and see her wings growing. “Um, I don’t feel any different.” Scootaloo said, not noticing her wings, “I feel the same really.” A lot of the ponies gasp once they notice and I point at her. “Look at your wings.” this gets her and Rainbow to stop and look. Scootaloo’s eyes widen and she freezes. “M-my wings! What happened to them?” she asked, “Yeah what did you do!?” Rainbow said next, I hold up my Omnitrix. “It is an automatic feature of the Omnitrix, when it detects damage to someone's DNA it will repair it. I guess she was sick before my Omnitrix fixed it.” I then cross my arms as I glare at Rainbow.  “Wait, so it fixed my wings?” Scootaloo asked me, spreading her wings and giving them a few test flaps. I shrug and say. “I guess so, they seem to have gotten bigger.” After I make sure Applejack has a good hold of Rainbow I drop my shield and walk over to the food table. “Wait does this mean I can fly?” she asked,  “As far as I know, you are now one hundred percent physically healthy, so I don't see why not.” I told her before taking a bite out of a cupcake. “Awesome!” she said happily, then hugged me, “Thankyouthankyouthankyou!” I blush and chuckle nervously and hear Star huff a bit but she doesn't look too upset. “Um, you're welcome.” “Well how about that, it looks like Jake’s watch helped Scootaloo, and it looks like somepony owes him an apology.” Applejack said, giving Rainbow Dash a stern look, Rainbow looks around at everyone then at Scootaloo, then she turns to me and crosses her arms. “Fine! I was wrong, happy?” “Come on Rainbow, you punched him in the face!” Applejack said, “Accusing him is somewhat tolerable but attacking him?! So apologize properly.” Rainbow grumbles but sighs. “I'm sorry for punching you in the face.” “It’s fine, I know you were just looking out for her.” I said, Rainbow looks away and heads over to a different part of the party. I shrug and finish eating my cupcake. “She needs to relax, I don't mind if she is suspicious of me, but she could at least wait until she has evidence to act.” “That’s just the way she is really, always hard-headed and quick to judge.” Applejack said with a sigh, “That type of attitude gets her in so much trouble if we weren’t around to keep her from rushing into danger so fast.” I chuckle and smile. “I can think of a few people like her, who knows maybe she just needs to get some.” I smirk as I take a drink of some punch. Everyone blushed after I said that, “Jake! You shouldn't say things like that!” Fluttershy said, I look around confused. “What? I'm a teenager and a guy, of course stuff like that is on my mind sometimes.”  I shrug not seeing the big deal. Everypony was silent until there was knocking, Twilight went to open it and I could see Pearl and the Amethysts on the other side. “Yo! Time to party!” Amethyst said as she and the others came in. Pearl came over to me with a smile. “Hello Jake, having fun?” she asked me. I nodded as I finished my drink. “Yeah I am.” I said to her,  “That's good.” She smiles and I pat her back before me and Star head over to some chairs and sit down and talk for most of the party. Time flies as the party starts to die down. That Scootaloo pony spent the rest of the party trying to fly but even I can tell her wings are moving out of sync with each other. “She sure is trying to fly huh?” Star said, watching as Scootaloo tries to fly again. I nod and tap my Omnitrix. “Yeah, but if I’m right she didn't have the chance to fly before now, thanks to this she can finally fly...well once she learns how to.” Star nodded her head as we both let out a small laugh at Scootaloo's attempts to fly, Rainbow Dash encouraging and coaching her a bit. I smirk and take a bite of a cookie. “Good at least Rainbow can help someone.”  I scratch my chin. “Say, do you think you should enroll in school with me?” I asked Star. Star tilted her head at me, “Are sure that’s a good idea?” she asked me, I shrug and smile. “You don't have to if you don't want to. I'm just asking if you want to, then we can be together for most of the day.” Star thought about then nodded her head, “I guess I can give it a shot.” she said, smiling a bit, “Besides, it might be fun.” I smile and blush as I hold her hand. “I’ll ask Miss Cheerilee for more papers for you.” “Thanks.” she said, giving me a small hug. I smile lightly then hear some giggling, I look around and blush more seeing lots of ponies looking and I frown. “What's so funny?” I said, a bit annoyed. “Nothing.” they all said, some of them still giggling. I sigh and look away from them but keep hugging Star. “Whatever, say Star, did you like the room I set you up in?” ‘Yes, I did. Thank you for that Jake.” she replied,  “No problem, if you want anything added just ask.” I smile and reach for a cupcake but it gets taken by a pink blur. I heard Twilight laugh a bit, “You gotta be quicker than that when Pinkie’s around.” she said, handing me a cupcake, I smirk and take it. “Thanks, and trust me at my top speed she would be standing still.” I take a bit, not knowing the huge mistake I just made. “Really?!” Scootaloo asked me, getting in my face, “You can go so fast that Pinkie would be standing still?!” I nod with a smirk. “Yeah, at my top speed I move so fast everything slows to a crawl.”  “That's such a lie!” Rainbow said, crossing her arms, “No one is that fast. Except for me.” I sigh and stand up then take a breath as I start glowing pink and use my hyper speed to move behind Rainbow and drop some ice cubes down her shirt and then back to my seat and then lean on the table panting as I stop glowing. “That fast enough?” Rainbow let out a shout as she tried to get the ice out of her shirt, and everyone in the room laughed. I chuckle and sit down. “Damn I need to work on that more.” I watch Rainbow then sigh. “She will not be happy about that but whatever.” “No she won’t, never seen somepony move so fast before, but be careful, Dash might want to race you later.” Applejack said, I sigh and shake my head. “Even if I want to race her, I can't move that fast for long, a few seconds if I'm lucky.” I rub my chin. “Though one of my transformations can move around three hundred miles per hour I think.” Applejack nodded her head, “Dang, that’s fast.” Applejack said,  I chuckle and nod. “Yeah, there are a lot of strong forms. I can be thankful for this.” I look at my Omnitrix. “Yeah, I can be thankful for it too when you turned into that big creature and fought that dragon.” Applejack said, I smirk and point at a few of the Amethysts that are dancing. “I didn't fight him alone, they helped too.” “True, but still I am thankful for that thing.” Applejack said,  “I'll Be sure to tell my friend who gave it to me.” I tell her and see that some of the pegasi start leaving looking like they are in a rush. “Wonder what got into them?” Star asked,  I shrug not knowing but grab her hand and smile at her. “Who knows, seeing as the party is starting to die down, how about we read some.” She smiled and nodded her head, “Sure!” I chuckle at her good mood and get up and walk over to a corner and she sits next to me. I pull out Raven’s spell book that she gave me and open it to the first page. While I read I notice Star reading something, and the rest of the ponies seem to be leaving. “Looks like the party is close to being over.” Star said,  I nod as I look up from the book. “Yeah, seems so. If you want you can head back to the castle. I want to study this spell book for a bit.”  The next thing I knew, Twilight was immediately in my face, “Did you say spell book?! Which one?! And where did you get it?!” she asked me,  I flinch and almost punch her in the face but thankfully I stop myself. “Geez miss twilight I almost punched you.” I sigh and show her the book. “A friend of mine gave me this spell book and I wanted to see what I could do with it.” “Really? Can I see what type of spells there are in it?” she asked me, eyeing the spellbook like a little kid would a piece of candy. I sigh and hand it over. “Sure, just be careful with it, there is only one of this book.”  “Thank you!” she said, grabbing the book and looking at the pages, “I can’t wait to-” she went wide-eyed and her horn lit up as it was in a box with a bunch of chains around it. “Whoa! What happened?” I ask, surprised.  “That book has dark magic in it! A forbidden type of magic! It should be locked up or better yet destroyed!” Twilight said, then the box was covered in a dark-colored glow then exploded as the book emitted the same glow. I grab the book and frown. “I don't see why it should be destroyed, magic is a tool, it isn't good or evil.”  “But dark magic is evil. I don’t even want to speak of what it can do.” Twilight said, I raise an eyebrow. “Well, this magic is mine and I trust my friend. She can use this magic for good, I don't see why I can't.” “Jake, this magic is dangerous, and when you said the one who gave you this spell book is a friend, I’m starting to question what kind of friend she is.” Twilight said, I roll my eyes. “She is like me, a displaced. She was turned into a character that is half demon that uses her magic to protect the world and stop crime.”  I tell her then pull out the other spell book. “And this is from my other friend.” “You mean the girl who turned into the creature who looked to be made of the night sky? Gwen?” Rarity asked, I raise an eyebrow and nod slowly. “Yes, but how did you know about that?” “I told her. I saw the fight and told Rarity as well as the others about it.” Twilight said,  “Ah, I see. Well yes, the second book is from Gwen.” I tell them as I open Raven’s book and get back to reading it. “Jake stop reading that! Didn’t you hear a word of what I just said?!” Twilight said, I roll my eyes and look up at Twilight. “Do I look like I'm being corrupted? No, and besides I've seen the good this magic can do.”  “Alright, but the first sign of corruption and we’re blasting you with the Elements while I say I told you so.” Twilight said, I raise an eyebrow. “I doubt they would do anything to me, I have no plans of being evil.” I look back at the book and hum. I look up and smirk holding my hand out to a plate of cookies and say. “Azarath Metrion Zinthos”  a black energy covers my hand and the plate then it floats over to me slowly. I smirk and take a bite out of a cookie before saying sarcastically. “Oh no evil cookies whatever I will do.” I hear a few of the others trying to keep themselves from laughing while Twilight had an unamused look on her face. “Not funny.” she said, I chuckle and eat the east of the cookie. “They seem to think it was.” I say pointing at the few that are still here. “Whatever, just try to remember what I said about dark magic.” Twilight said, “And what is gonna happen if you get corrupted by it.” “That is a big if, miss Twilight.” I told her, then went back to reading. I saw Twilight shake her head and started talking with Rarity. “Are you sure it is safe?” Star asks me looking and sounding worried. I nod and smile. “Yeah it is safe, and even if things go back I just need to call Raven to come fix me.”  I told her, then squeezed her hand. “Alright, I just don’t want you to get hurt.” she said, I smile at her and shyly look around before I lean over and kiss her cheek. “I'm not going anywhere.” “That’s good to hear.” she said, kissing my cheek. “I’d hate to lose you.” I blush and smile. Just as I'm about to say something, Pearl comes up to us. “Jake, we are heading back to the castle for now, stay safe.” “Alright Pearl, have a safe trip.” I said to her, She smiles and gives me the paperwork then she and the Amethysts leave. Not too much later almost all the other ponies leave as well leaving me, Star, and Twilight alone. “Hey miss Twilight, do you mind if we stay here to study a bit?” “Sure. I don’t mind at all.” Twilight said, “Sweet.” I say with a smile and go back to studying. I read through the whole first chapter before there is a loud boom as a wet Rarity and Applejack come in. “what the?” > Chapter 11 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “This is amazing! I get to have my very first sleepover with my friends!” Twilight said with a grin. Rarity and Applejack looked at each other unsure but then they spot me, and Rarity blushed and covered her chest as her shirt was almost transparent with how wet it was from the rain outside. “M-maybe we shouldn’t have Jake be a part of the sleepover darling.” Rarity said. “I don't see a problem with him being here. Ah, mean he seems like a nice boy and he has his marefriend here, though I will agree ta having him sleep in a different room.” Applejack said with a shrug. I blushed a bit when she talked about Star. “besides it ain't like we are part of his herd.” “Applejack! The dear is a bit young to think about that sort of thing!” Rarity said to Applejack.  I scratched my head seeing everyone blushing. “I don't know what you mean by herd, but I do agree about sleeping in another room. After all, I am a teenager and a boy at a girl's sleepover I guess.” I looked off to the side and thought to myself. ‘Even though I can leave and stay dry at any time.’ “Yes, enough talk about herds. For now, let’s just have some fun!” Twilight said happily. I chuckled and shook my head as I stood up and held my hands up. “I'll let you girls change, and wait in the bathroom while I change. Let me know when you changed.” Then I walked over to the bathroom and went inside. After a few minutes, I heard Twilight call out. “Okay Jake, we changed.” She said. I smiled and used my gem and pulled out my clothes that looked more like pajamas. Then I changed and put my normal clothes in my gem, then I came out of the bathroom and look around and blush lightly when I see Star.  “So what first miss Twilight?” Twilight smiled as she and the other girls began whispering, causing me to get a bad feeling, once they all nodded, they all looked at me with smirks all four of them shouted. “Makeovers!” My eye twitched and I groaned. “I'm not getting out of this am I?” When they shake their heads I sighed and walked over to them and cross my arms. “Fine let's get this over with.” After what felt like hours, which were only a few painful minutes, the girls were done giving me a new look, I looked over at the mirror they were holding up and I looked myself over and smirked. “Well, I can tell you this, you did much better than my sister ever did.” The girls had made me into an exact copy of when Gwen turned me into a girl when she was Alien X, except with just makeup and a simple hairbrush. “You simply look wonderful darling! It’s a shame we don’t have any dresses for you to wear, it would have completed the look.” Rarity said. I frown at Rarity. “I've had enough of my sister making me crossdress when I was younger thank you.” I then shook my head with a sigh. “So who next?” “I believe Star is next.” Applejack said, causing Star to blush a bit. I chuckled and smirked. “Don't give it out if you're not ready to receive it Star.” I said while I sat back and watch as the others have their fun. After a few minutes, the girls were done putting makeup on Star and I couldn’t help but blush by seeing how beautiful she looked, she looked at me and I felt my heart beat faster. “Um so..how do I look?” She asks me. I stared for a whole minute and all I can say was a quiet. “Wow.” Which made her blush more and the others giggle at us. “T-thanks.” She said, smiling. I noticed Rarity grinning like she is planning revenge while looking at Applejack. “Oh, I think sweet Applejack should be next.” Rarity said, still grinning. “Don’t you even think about making me look all girly girly Rarity.” Applejack said. “I wouldn't dream of it, darling.” Rarity said still grinning but once I saw Twilight is unaware of their little feud I walked over and placed a hand on both their backs and lead them away from twilight. “Ok, tell me what has you both fighting.” I said frowning at them. “Whatever do you mean darling?” Rarity asked me. “I have lived with two moms and an older sister, I know when two girls are mad at each other, now talk, or I'm bubbling you both for the night.” I warn them with a serious look on my face. Applejack let out a sigh. “Rarity here keeps fussing over the littlest of things.” Applejack said. “Like earlier in the park, she kept putting branches back up in the trees with a new look when we are supposed to take down any loose ones before they cause trouble.” I nodded then looked at Rarity. “I was only trying to make the trees look more presentable, and Applejack kept destroying my hard work!” I held up my hands before they can start fighting again. “Ok, I think I understand, but Rarity you have to understand if you focus only on the small things the big ones can be worse off. It would be best to take care of the big trouble before the small.” I tried my best to sound wise as I told her my advice. Rarity seemed to think about what I said, then she let out a weary sigh and nodded. “Alright, I’ll worry more about the big things than the little things.” I patted her shoulder. “You can still worry about the small things just keep in mind to take care of what's most important first.” Rarity nodded her head, just as a loud boom was heard. “That storm sounds bad, best add an extra layer of protection.” I closed my eyes and put my hands together like I'm holding a ball then move them out and a massive bubble shield appears around the whole tree.  “There, first time making one that big so I hope it holds.” I say before sitting down. “You know you didn’t have to do that Jake.” Twilight said. “But I thank you for doing so.” I shrugged and smiled. “I wasn't sure if this place had anything to deal with lightning and it gave me a chance to practice my powers.” “Well, I did have a magical lightning rod to make sure none of the lightning hits my home.” Twilight said. “But a little more protection couldn’t hurt.” “Cool, I'll have to check with Peridot about defenses for the castle later.” I said then get an idea and smirked. “How about I show you girls how boys' sleepovers work?” “Alright Jake, what did ya have in mind?” Applejack asked me. “Well, I have a few fictional movies on my tablet we can watch while eating some snacks, and I have a few video games a friend gave me.” I tell them as I pull said items out of my gem one after another. Star picked one up and looked it over, “What’s Pok-e-mon?” She asked. I shrugged and told her. “I don't know, I think it was a game where Rick, my friend, is from. He said he was one now so I guess there will be creatures similar to him in there though none of you have actually seen him.” “Maybe we’ll meet him one day.” Twilight said with a smile. “If he’s a friend of yours, I’m sure he can’t be all that bad.” I scratched my neck. “Well, if he survived his girlfriend's rath. The last time I saw him was over a video call, and his girlfriend was trying to kill him.” I started chuckling. “He probably said something that upset her without him realizing it.” “Well, whatever he said, hope he survives so that way we can meet him.” Applejack said, laughing. I chuckled and nodded. “Me too, he is a good guy.” I set my tablet on the table. “So ladies what do you want to watch? I got a big library.” The four of them kept looking through each movie, each one of them curious about each movie. Until Star held up a familiar one, “How about this? Transformers the Movie?” She asked. I smiled and chuckle. “That is a classic, it's about giant robots that can change into different vehicles.” “Really? Who built them?” Twilight asked, letting me know the movie has piqued her interest. “Sorry, no spoilers.” I said, smiling. “But I will say this, just because they are robots does not mean they aren't alive, they are just as alive as you and me...well...in their own story anyway.” “Really? Robots with actual life, that’s amazing!” Twilight said, then she got in my face with an excited expression, “Let’s watch it!” I chuckled and asked. “Alright, I set it up, who is gonna make the popcorn?” “I will.” Applejack said, once she headed into the kitchen I got an idea. I took my phone out and sent a message to Ship and smirked. I then set up the movie but Twilight surprised me as she made a magnifying glass out of her magic that made the screen big enough that we can watch it comfortably.  “There we go, now we won’t be so crowded together.” Twilight said. “Good work Twilight.” I smiled and was about to sit down when the whole library shakes a bit. I go over to the door and open it to see Ship in X-wing form. “Good boy Ship!” I drop the bubble shield and walked outside as he dropped down and spat out the replicator. “Ship ship!” Then he transformed and flew back to the castle. I picked up the replicator and took it inside. I set it down and smiled before putting the shield back up. “What was making the whole place shake?” Applejack asked. “Did I hear little Ship outside the door Jake?” Star asked me. I nodded and chuckled. “Yeah, that was Ship, I asked him to bring something.” I open the replicator’s door and inside is a mess, making me groan. “Damn it Amethyst.”  “What happened?” Star asked. “Amethyst is a slob, that's what.” I told her then bubble as much of the mess as I could and send it all to the temple then once the Replicator was clean I write a note and bubble it, sending it to the temple telling them that it was Amethyst’s mess. “I’m sure she didn’t mean it.” Rarity said. I rolled my eyes and sighed. “Rarity, she leaves food in her room for months at a time till it rots and still eats it.” I shook my head. “Trust me she did this, she just didn't clean it after using it, now then, we can make any snacks we want.” I noticed the look in Twilight's eyes and pointed at her. “Don't even think of taking it apart, ask Peridot to scan it and get a blueprint from her that's all you get from this.” Twilight pouted. “Dang, alright I’ll talk to Peridot later.” Twilight said. “But for now, let’s watch the movie!” I chuckled before I pressed play then I sat back and watch them just as much as I watch the movie. As the opening credits play I quickly say. “Quick bit of info, Autobots good, Decepticons bad, enjoy the movie.” Twilight had turned off the lights so that way our attention was on the movie, we watched as the familiar transformer god fly by a planet and towards a moon, I saw Twilight taking notes, Rarity looked like she is getting inspired, Applejack looked amazed at the size of everything and Star just leaned closer to me. The scene then changed to a city full of giant robots living happily, soon we watched as the scene now showed a robot mixing some strange liquids as two more came in with more supplies for no doubt an experiment. “Interesting, I wonder what those chemicals are.” Twilight mumbled as she continued to take notes. Just as she did, the lab started to shake and everything started to fall, one robot weUnicron window and saw the same planet. “Look! It’s Unicron!” One of the robots shouted as two others joined at the window, the planet then shot out a white beam at the moon. The girls gasped as they watched but Rarity turned to me and asked quietly. “Excuse me darling did he say Unicron or unicorn?” “Unicron.” I whispered back, just as two pinchers on the planet stabbed into the moon, the people started to get pulled up, and not just the people, but buildings as well, the scientist from before shouted that everyone should get to the ships. The girls watched horrified as Unicron kept eating the moon, a couple of ships managed to escape but one was immediately pulled back towards Unicorn. “I should have warned you all, there will be a lot of death in this movie, but don't worry, it's all fake.” I whispered as I watched the ship be destroyed. Once the moon was devoured, the ring around Unicron started to light up as the camera panned away from him and music started to play, the familiar Transformers title appearing. “That was horrible! What kind of monster does that?” Applejack said. “That is Unicron, and you will have to watch the movie to learn about him.” I told her. After the intro, the scene changed to Cybertron and its two moons, the narrator describing how the Decepticons conquered Cybertron, just as Lazerbeak flew from Cybertron towards one of the moons the Autobots were on. “Those Decepticons sound like horrible ruffians.” Rarity said as she took a sip out of some wine she got from the replicator. Lazerbeak landed by a window as a camera popped out of his head, “Ironhide, report to me at once.” We heard the all-too-familiar voice of Optimus Prime,  “Every time Ah look into a monitor Prime, my circuits sizzle.” Ironhide said angrily, he then turned to Optimus, fist raised. “When are we gonna start busting Deceptichops?!” “I like that one's accent.” Applejack said while eating some popcorn. “I want you to make a special run to Autobot City on Earth.” Optimus said.  “But Prime-” Ironhide started to say, but Optimus cut him off. “Listen Ironhide, we don’t have enough Energon Cubes to power a full-scale assault.” He said, unaware that Lazerbeak was watching. “Ready the shuttle for launch!” “What are Energon Cubes?” Twilight asked while looking over at me. “They are what they need to stay online, think of them like food for them.” I explained. “Now hush, the movie’s talking.” Ironhide pressed a few buttons on the computer he was at. “Yer days are numbered now Decepticreeps!” He said, then quickly left the computer and proceeded to run out of the room, once he was outside, there was the sound of shifting gears and Ironhide had transformed into his truck form, driving towards a ship in the distance. “Oooo! What is that? What happened to um, iron hide?” Twilight asked leaning forward. “I want to know too.” Star said quietly. “You’ll see. But you may not like it.” I said to them, just as the scene switched back to Optimus who was talking to another Autobot with a visor covering his eyes on a large screen.  “Jazz, report security status.” He said to Jazz. “No sign of Decepticons here Prime!” Jazz said. “What about Moonbase Two?” Prime asked him, “Jazz to Moonbase Two, Jazz to Moonbase Two.” Jazz said as the camera zoomed in on Cybertrons second moon. Another Autobot and a human in armor walked up to a monitor. “Bumblebee and Spike here.” Bumblebee replied, just as Jazz appeared on the monitor. “We’re about to send up a shuttle, any Decepticon shenanigans in your area?” Jazz asked the two. “Ooom he looks like you jake, is he a gem?” Rarity asked then adds. “At least his armor is fashionable.” “No, he’s a human, not a gem.” I said, just as Bumblebee responded to Jazz, “All clear Jazz.” He said, while Spike to Ironhide. “Hey Ironhide, tell my son Daniel I miss him, and tell him not to worry, I’ll be coming home as soon as we kick Megatron's tail across the galaxy.” Spike said. Ironhide gave a thumbs-up to the human. “Will do Spike.” “Rainbow would like this, I can tell.” Applejack said as she drank something. “Yes, I'm sure she would be bored with the talking but excited for the action that I'm sure is to come.” Rarity added. The next few minutes were of the Autobots preparing to launch from the moon, and when they did, the girls were in awe. “Incredible! They are capable of leaving one of their moons!” Star said. “Now all we need is a little Energon and a lot of luck.” Optimus said as Lazerbeak began to leave, flying back to Cybertron, the scene then changed to two Decepticons I was familiar with, the one-eyed Shockwave, and the spy Soundwave. “Lazerbeak returns lord Megatron.” Shockwave said, as Lazerbeak flew by them and towards Megatron and landed on his arm. “Welcome Lazerbeak.” Megatron said. “Unlike some of my other warriors, you never fail me!” Rarity frowned while Applejack blew a raspberry. “That Megatron feller is a nasty piece of work.” The familiar jet Starscream looked offended when Megatron said that, but he ignored the jet. “Soundwave, playback Lazerbeak’s spy feeds.” Lazerbeak flew towards Soundwave, transforming into a cassette tape and entered a compartment on Soundwave's chest, then the Decepticon spy transformed into a boombox, connecting with a monitor as it played what Optimus prime said. Megatron smiled evilly and said right after Optimus finished speaking, “More than you imagine Prime.” The scene then changed to the shuttle Ironhide and a few others were on, Ironhide and who I am guessing was Prowl was steering the ship until it shook. An explosion appeared at one of the ship's walls, Megatron and a few other Decepticons easily tore through what wasn’t destroyed, and Brawn looked in shock. “Megatron! Decepticons!” He shouted. “Die Autobots!” Megatron shouted, jumping up and transforming into a gun and landing in Starscream's hands, who took aim and fired, easily blasting right through Brawn's shoulder, causing the Autobot to fall to the ground, smoke coming out of the hole in his shoulder. The other Autobots immediately sprung into action, blasting at the Decepticons, Prowl had tried to blast Starscream only to miss and a Decepticon shot him in the chest, Prowl's eyes glowed yellow as smoke came out of his mouth and he fell to the ground, dead. Ironhide and Ratchet started firing back, the medic wielding two blasters, the Decepticons easily dodged the two Autobots' shots, firing back at any chance they had, the Decepticons easily hit Ratchet and Ironhide, but didn’t stop firing at them until they fell to the ground, Megatron the flew out of the seeker's hands and transformed. “This was almost too easy Starscream.” He said. “Much easier almighty Megatron." Starscream said as other Decepticons got into the pilot seats. “Than attacking the real threat, the Autobots Moonbase!” “You’re an idiot Starscream.” Megatron said bluntly." When we slip by their early warning systems in their own shuttle and destroy Autobot City, the Autobots will be vanquished forever!” Ironhide, still barely alive reached and grabbed Megatron's leg. “Nooo!” He said weakly, Megatron looked down at him with a glare. “Such heroic nonsense.” He said, blasting the poor Autobot with his arm cannon, killing him. The girls stared in shock as Star hugged my arm in fear. I hugged Star back and I heard the others start crying. “How could he be so cruel? They were defeated. Why did he have to kill them?!” Twilight cried as she watched. “Why that no good rotten apple! If I was there I'd give him a piece of ma mind!” Applejack said. “That monstrous brute, he would never get any of my designs.” Rarity said. “Not like he’ll accept them, that’s Megatron, the leader of the Decepticons, he started the war between the Autobots and Decepticons, and he doesn’t care about creatures like us. Organics I mean.” I explained, just as the next scene showed Hot Rod and Danial fishing.  Hot Rod comforting Daniel who misses his dad, then to Hot Rod catching a fish. “Hey! I caught something!” Hot Rod said excitedly, reeling the fish in and showing it to Daniel. “Wow look at the size of that thing!” The boy said happily. Then a beeping was heard, Daniel pulled out a device that showed a map with a blip on it, “Hot Rod, the Strongmos coming! Let’s go watch it land!” He said, running away from the lake. “Talk about dull Daniel.” Hot Rod said as he threw the fish back into the water, and followed after his friend, who had jumped onto a hoverboard and began to fly through the valley, only for the board to hit a rock and send him flying, Hot Rod easily catches him. “If you’re gonna ride Dano, ride in style!” Hot Rod then transformed with Daniel landing on his seat. The two speeding toward a mountain, the road currently under construction by a few Autobots “Over to the left, a little bit more.” Kup said, then saw Hot Rod and Daniel driving towards them, breaking through the road closed sign and by Kup. “Turbo revving young punk! I’ll straighten you out yet!”  I heard Applejack laugh a bit while I saw Twilight frowning. “Why is he breaking the law by going on a closed road?” “Oh my so many bright colors that match so well.” Rarity said with stars in her eyes.  “That's just Hot Rod for you, think of him as a teenager.” I explained, as Daniel had gotten out of Hot Rod and was running to a binocular, the same ship that Decepticons were in flying by. “Hey Hot Rod, there’s a hole in the ship!” Daniel said, looking at the ship with the binoculars. “What?” Hot Rod asked, a visor covering his eyes as he looked at the hole, seeing Starscream. “Decepticons!” Then he began to fire at the hole, managing to hit Starscream, the Decepticons fired back, destroying most of the platform Hot Rod and Daniel was on, Hot Rod not letting up his attack, managed to blast a hole in the shuttle, causing it to explode with the Decepticons flying out of it. “Decepticons! Attack!” Megatron ordered, firing at the platform, destroying it as Hot Rod managed to grab Daniel before it exploded, sliding down the mountain just as Blitzwing and an Insecticon, after defeating the two with the help of Kup, Hot Rod thanked his friend. “Not bad for an old timer!” He said, causing Kup to give him an unamused look. “Oldtimer? That’s something you’ll never be if you don’t get back to the city.” Kup replied, just as Starscream started blasting them, the two quickly transforming and driving to Autobot city, just as the Decepticons began to attack it. “Come on you can beat those no-good varmints!” Applejack yelled at the screen. “How rude of that young man.” Rarity said. “I think getting back up is a good idea.” Twilight said while still writing.  “I agree, the Decepticons looked like they came in force.” Star said, I smirked, knowing they were in for a surprise. Ultra Magnus had just given orders to Springer and Arcee to transform the city, and for Perceptor to get to Blaster to contact Optimus Prime, while he and Blur were to warn the other Autobots in the city, showing the girls the world's fastest talker, as Arcee and Springer reached two consoles, they turned them and the girls gasped as the whole city began to transform, Starscream then chased the two, trying to hit them with his null rays, after the two managed to get into a bunker, Starscream saw that the roof was starting close, trying to get away only to get his foot stuck and was going to get crushed. He then shot his foot to escape. “Ow, my foot!!” He said in pain, flying away as the whole city transformed into something that looked like it could outlast an entire planet's attack on it. “Holy mother of Celestia, that thing is huge!” Applejack said, the other nodding. “Amazing! The whole city turned into a machine of war!” Twilight said, rapidly writing stuff down. After the last of the Autobots got behind unbreachable doors, Megatron shouted. “Breach their defenses!” Then two insecticons came flying in and started to eat the door, commenting on the taste as they did, but they didn’t get far before Kup and Hot Rod rammed through them, Kup crushing the head of one as he did, Perceptor and Blaster were in one of the guns, Blaster shooting at any cons he can until Perceptor told him to call Optimus, he did just before the Cons took out their satellite. The battle continued as Arcee and Springer were in one of the bunkers, Arcee looking down sadly at two fallen Autobots. “That is so sad, they died but it was to protect their friends.” Twilight said, crying a bit. Applejack and rarity nodded and hugged Twilight and I gave Star a hug.  We continued to watch as Blur began to speak rapidly. “WegotDecepticonsatthegates!Deceptionsintheair, Decepticonsinsidethewall, DecepticonsDecepticonsDecepticon!" He said, firing at any Decepticon he could. “Webeatthemoffthewall, butthatleavesthemstillintheair,weshootthemoutoftheair,butleavesthematthegates! Sowheredoesthatleavesus,thatleavesusnowherethat’swhere!” He continued, Megatron and many other Decepticons charging at the main gate, meanwhile, Arcee, Kup, Daniel, Hot Rod, and Springer pushed a large ballista-like gun towards the main gate, where the Decepticons had gathered. “Constructicons! Merge for the kill!” Megatron ordered a group of Decepticons, confusing the girls, but before they could ask anything, the group of Decepticons Megatron was talking to began to combine into the giant Devastator. The girls gasped and all started talking. “Holy apple core, they can mix together to grow huge!?” “That is amazing! imagine the possibilities if others could copy this technology.” Twilight said. “My goodness! This gives me so many ideas.” Rarity takes out a small notepad and writes something down.  “The Decepticons remind me of my hive.” Star said, sounding a bit scared. We watched as Devastator easily crushed a turret that was three times the size of Megatron, and proceeded to attack the main gate, easily denting it, Hot Rod and the others started to use the ballista to launch bombs at Devastator, but none seemed to faze him as he continued to destroy the gate, the scene then changed again, showing us the city from a distance, the battle continued throughout the night until morning, showing us a quiet Autobot City, but we knew better. “Their defenses are broken! Let the slaughter begin!” Megatron shouted, just as Devastator tore through the gate, allowing a whole army of Decepticons to charge in, just as another ship came flew overhead, inside were Optimus Prime and the Dinobots. “Dinobots! Destroy Devastator!” Optimus ordered the four, and Grimlock responded. “Me Grimlock love challenge!” Then the four flew out of the ship and towards the large combiner, confusing the girls. “How can four of them take on something that is easily bigger than them?” Twilight asked. “And What's up with Grimlock? He’s talking all strange.” Applejack asked next, just as Grimlock spoke again. “Dinobots transform!” He shouted, shocking the girls as they turned into their dinosaur forms, Devastator sees them and immediately kicks Grimlock and slammed his fists down on Sludge before picking him up and throwing him, Slug charged at him and rammed into his leg, pushing him into the main gate just as Swoop came in and tried to fight, only for Devastator to fall back a bit and debris fell on top of the flyer. Meanwhile, Optimus and the other Autobots watched as Megatron and the Decepticons continued to charge through the gate. “Megatron must be stopped, no matter the cost!” Prime said, transforming and speeding towards the city, and as he entered the city, he rammed right through Decepticons, those who were far away beginning to fire at the Prime, who just kept on driving through the shots until he transformed, jumping into the air and easily shooting three Decepticons, he continued to shoot any Decepticon he can and then started to look for Megatron, finding the con in a hallway. “Prime!” Megatron said with anger. “One shall stand, one shall fall.” Optimus said. “Why throw away your life so recklessly?” Megatron asked him, anger in his voice. “That’s a question you should ask yourself Megatron.” Optimus replied, causing the Decepticon leader to shout. “No! I’ll crush you with my bare hands!” Megatron then tackled the Prime out of the hallway. “Come on Optimus you kick his sorry tail!” Applejack called out. “Oh my, they sound like brothers that have been forced to fight a lifetime.” Rarity said. “This Optimus sounds like a strong leader.” Twilight said. “I’ve got to help Prime!” Hot Rod said, running towards the two fighters, Kup yelling after him. “Stay away lad! That’s Primes' fight!” Kup said, just as Optimus threw Megatron off of him and into a wall, Megatron slowly got up while picking up a piece of debris and threw it like a spear at Optimus, the debris stabbing into his side giving Megatron time to try and shoot him, only for the Prime to easily dodge and punch the warlord into the wall again, causing his arm cannon to fall and get crushed. Optimus took this time to pull out the piece of metal out of his side, just as Megatron then pulled a beam saber and slashed at the same spot where Optimus was stabbed, the wound sparking as he backed up.  Megatron then jumped up into the air and attempted to slice Optimus again if the Prime hadn’t delivered a vicious uppercut to the warlord's face, making him land on his back and lose his weapon, when the Prime ran at him Megatron attempted to sweep his legs from under him, but Optimus jumped over the attack and landed only for Megatron to kick him with both feet as he jumped back up, the two grabbing each other with Megatron reaching for Primes eyes. “I’ll rip out your optics!” He said, just as Optimus managed to grab his head and throw him. Megatron slid across the ground. “Finish him off Prime! Do it now!” Kup shouted to the Autobot leader while he grabbed his gun and walked towards the down Decepticon, aiming just as Megatron saw a gun hidden in some debris. “No more Optimus Prime! Grant me mercy! I beg of you!” Megatron begged, slowly crawling toward the gun. “You, who are without mercy, now plead for it? I thought you were made of sterner stuff.” Optimus said, not noticing that Megatron was reaching for a gun. The girls all yell trying to warn Optimus that Megatron is up to something. “Look out Optimus!” From Twilight. “Don't trust him!” From Applejack. “Finish him off now!” From Rarity.  While Star buries her face into my chest. Just as Megatron grabbed the gun, Hot Rod came and tackled Megatron. “Out of the way Hot Rod!” Optimus said, trying to aim at Megatron without shooting Hot Rod by accident, only for Megatron to put Hot Rod in a headlock and start shooting Optimus, right where he was wounded. “Fall. Fall!” Megatron shouted, continuing his attack on the prime, until he fell to the ground, severely wounded. Megatron threw Hot Rod away as he walked over to the down Prime. “I would have waited an eternity for this, it’s over Prime.” Megatron said, prepared to end the last of the primes. Optimus looked at Megatron weakly and with the last bit of strength, hit him with both of his fists shouting. “NEVER!!” Megatron then flew back from the hit before he started to fall, hitting several cliffs and finally crashing at the bottom, Decepticons rushed over to their leader while Optimus tried to stand up, only to fall to his knees. Starscream looked at Megatron with a smirk. “How do you feel mighty Megatron?” He asked sarcastically before kicking him. "Astrotrain, transform, and get us out of here!” Megatron looked up at the ever-loyal Soundwave, begging to not be left behind causing Soundwave to pick him up and run with the other Decepticons while the Autobots fired after them, Astrotrain transforming into his train form, letting them on. “Astrotrain, take off!” Starscream ordered once all the Decepticons were on. The next few scenes were of Astrotrian transforming into his starship form and flying away from Autobot city, then to Optimus giving the Matrix to Ultra Magnus only for it to fall and Hot Rod catching it and giving it to Ultra Magnus, to Optimus finally dying from his wounds. The girls are crying and sniffling as they watch the Autobots grieving over Optimus. “Don't lose hope girls, there is still more movie.” I told them. They nodded their heads and continued to watch, the scene then changed to Unicron in space, and we watched as he replayed the death of Optimus to Hot Rod giving Ultra Magnus the Matrix, the girls jumped when he roared in fury. The scene changed again to Astrotrain saying that the Decepticons needed to lose some weight otherwise they won’t make it to Cybertron, one of them said. "It's survival of the fittest." Starscream then got everyone's votes, the healthier Cons agreeing to dump the wounded in space, while said wounded voted against, it was obvious that they were outmatched as the Cons pushed the wounded out of Astrotrain, we even heard possibly Thundercracker begging his brothers to not do it. Their begging was ignored as they were soon pushed out of Astrotrain and into space to slowly die, Starscream carrying Megatron over to the open door. “Oh, how it pains me to do this.” Starscream said to Megatron, an evil smile on his face. “W-wait...I still function!” Megatron weakly said, only for Starscream to reply. “Wanna bet?” Then he threw the warlord out, Megatron calling out his name as Astrotrain flew away from him. Soon after the Decepticons began to fight over who should be the new leader, then the scene changed to Unicron talking with Megatron, offering him a new body in exchange for the destruction of the Matrix, which is the only thing that can destroy him. I heard the girls gasp as Megatron became Galvatron, while also transforming the damaged Decepticons into his new soldiers and giving him a new ship.  The scene changed again to Starscream's coronation, just when they put a crown on his head, Glavatron came flying in. “Who disrupts my coronation?!” Starscream asked angrily. “Coronation Starscream? This is bad comedy.” Galvatron said. “Megatron? Is that you?!” Starscream asked shocked. “Here’s a hint!” Galvatron said, transforming into his cannon form and blasting Starscream, turning him to stone, everyone watched as Starscream slowly turned to dust, the crown falling at Galvatrons feet, who transformed and crushed it under his foot. “Oh thank goodness, that hideous crown is destroyed.” Rarity said. “Rarity, did you not see that Megatron feller kill his own guy?” Applejack asked. “Girl, you are both missing the fact that Megatron essentially made a deal with the devil.” I tell them. They went wide-eyed when I said this, looking at me in shock. “W-what?!” Twilight asked. “U-Unicorn is t-that bad?” Star asked me, scared of the evil transformer. I raised an eyebrow. “You did watch the part when he ate that moon and everyone on it right?”  “We did, and it was absolutely dreadful. But we didn’t think he was that evil!” Rarity said, just as Unicron ate both Moonbase One and Two, with Jazz contacting Earth and telling the Autobots about Unicron, Jazz, and Cliffjumper tried to flee but ended up getting eaten with the moon. Bumblebee and Spike tried to attack Unicron by turning the second moon into a bomb, but failed and got eaten as well, as this was happening, Glavatron got angry with Unicron, only for him to get tortured by Unicron and forced to obey. The next few scenes were of the Autobots leaving Earth after Galvatron and the Decepticons started to attack, they get split up, with Grimlock wanting to hear Kup's war stories like an excited child. We continued to watch the movie for the next half hour or so. The girls made comments and such, and they even cried again when Galvatron ‘killed’ Ultra Magnus, soon we reached the part where Kup and Hot Rod were surrounded by Sharkitcons, those vicious little monsters. When it looked like the two were gonna be Sharkticon food when the door to the I guess courtroom? Was knocked down, landing on a Quintessen, the culprits turned out to be the Dinobots, and just as Slug walked over to the trapped Quintessen, he turned to him and said. “Excuse me!” He said, not a care in the world, this caused Applejack to laugh a bit. “Them Dinobots are a funny bunch. And strong too.” She said, still laughing a bit. “They lack brain power but make up for it in their incredible strength and size.” Twilight said, and I swear I heard her say something like. “Maybe me and Peridot can create such beings?” I smirked and chuckled. “If you do, make sure they don't go wild and destroy Equestria.”  Twilight nodded as the Dinobots stomped toward the Sharkticons, they tried to fight them but Dinobots are much more terrifying than Sharkticons, causing the Dinobots to easily crush most of them, Hot Rod commented on how happy he was to see the big bozos, making Grimlock respond with. “Me Grimlock no bozo! ME KING!” He said, just as a Quintessen ordered the Sharkticons to attack, only for Grimlock to stomp his foot and say. “Me Grimlock say execute them!” The Sharkticons looked at each other, smiling as they charged at the Quintessen. The next few minutes showed that they needed a ship with Wheelie responding with. “You get ship if I get trip!” then he pointed at a drill-shaped ship, then the scene changed to the remains of Ultra Magnus, Arcee, and the others walking up to them. After a while of watching the movie, we soon reached the near end of it, the part where Unicorn had revealed his true form and began to destroy Cybertron, the Decepticons on the planet jumped into action and attack the giant, we continued to watch in awe as the Autobots with the Junkticons flew towards him, after that, the next few scenes involved the Autobots flying straight into Unicrons eye, the girls cheered at that, then after many narrow escapes and a scene of the Dinobots bravely charging at Unicron, with Grimlock actually kicking his butt, the final battle came between Hot Rod and Galvatron, who wore the Matrix like a necklace. Galvatron looked around for Hot Rod, who had decided to hide and wait, once the opportunity to attack presented itself. “Come out Autobot! We all must die sometime!” Galvatron said as Hot Rod ran at him from behind. “Not today Galvatron!” he said, landing a right hook on the warlord's face, then transformed and drove away, expertly dodging the beams Galvatron fired at him before turning and speeding towards him again, Galvatron tried to move but Hot Rod wouldn’t let him and rammed into his legs. “Yeehaw! That is how ya take down a no-good varmint like him!” Applejack shouts. “Good work Hot Rod.” Rarity says.  “Yay, he knocked him over!” Star cheered. I smiled at their cheers, then continued to watch as Hot Rod drove away, only to get hit by one of Galvatrons beams, transforming quickly and shooting back at the warlord, causing him to kneel, acting quickly, Hot Rod transformed again and sped towards him, his lights blinding Galvatron as he rammed into him but before he could drive away Galvatron had grabbed him and pinned him, causing the speedster to transform while Galvatron strangled him. “I’ll crush you with my bare hands.” He said, Hot Rod trying to pry his hands off his neck. “Die Autobot!” Meanwhile, outside the body of Unicorn, we watched as the Junkticons ship was grabbed by Unicron and was slowly crushed before being thrown towards Cybertron, back to the inside of Unicron, Glavatron was still strangling Hot Rod. “First Optimus Prime, then Ultra Magnus, and now you.” Galvatron said. “It’s a pity you Autobots die so easily, or I might have a sense of satisfaction.” “Come on hot rod, Keep fighting!” Applejack yelled. “Don’t give up!” Twilight said while leaning forward. “Kick his plot!” Rarity called out with a bit of a slur. “You can win.” Star said, all of us watching as Hot Rod grabbed the Matrix, causing it to glow brightly. Hot Rod then kicked Galvatron off of him when the Decepticon looked at the Matrix in shock, as he stood up, the voice of a familiar prime spoke. “Arise Rodimus Prime.” It said as Hot Rod began to grow in size and change. “Optimus.” He said, surprised to hear the old prime's voice again. “No.” Galvatron said in what sounded like slight fear, then he began to fire at the new prime, who wasn’t even phased by the attacks until one shot hit the Matrix and knocked it out of Rodimus Prime's hands. “This is the end of the road Galvatron.” Rodimus said, then he and Galvatron began to fight, but no matter what Galvatron did, Rodimus easily dodged his attacks, in the end, Rodimus picked up Galvatron and threw him towards the wall, the Decepticon warlord crashing through it and out of Unicron and into space, shouting no as he did. The girls all cheered loudly jumping up and down and hugging each other and accidentally spilling the snacks. “He did it!” Twilight cheered. I smirked. “It’s not over yet.” I said, just as Rodimus picked up the Matrix, and began to open it. “Now, light our darkest hour.” He said, the Matrix glowing even brighter, then arcs of energy hit every part of Unicron's insides, causing them to start exploding, outside of Unicron, he was starting to feel the effects of the Matrix making him explode, he even tore off his leg to probably slow down the energy or something, but it didn’t matter. Back inside the giant, Arcee, Springer, Kup, Daniel, and the survivors of Moonbases One and Two, Jazz, Cliffjumper, Spike, and Bumblebee watched as everything was exploding,  “Spike, Daniel!” Springer said. “Springer, what’s going on?” Spike asked, Springer replied with. “No time to answer that now. Let’s get out of here!” He said, just as Unicron's claws tore into his chest, no doubt trying to find the wielder of the Matrix, when the group had started to run away from the claws Daniel had pointed at something, causing them to look and see Rodimus Prime running towards them. “Autobots! Transform and roll out!” Rodimus said the famous catchphrase in Transformers history, transforming into a truck version of his racer form, Spike and Daniel climbed in, and the others transformed as well and followed the Prime, Kup saying, “I knew you had potential lad.” he said, every one of them continued driving right through Unicrons other eye, Unicorn was suddenly pushed back from Cybertron by unknown means, “Destiny….You cannot…..destroy…..my...destiny!!” He shouted, his head popping off while the rest of him exploded into oblivion. The scene then changed to Rodimus giving a speech on Cybertron, no doubt after taking it back from the Decepticons. “Let this mark the end of the Cybertronian Wars as we march forward to a new age of peace and happiness.” He said, then raised his fist in the air shouting. “Till all are one!” The others shout it as well as the camera zoomed out of the city, and showed Cybertron, making the end a happy ending, if Unicrons head didn’t orbit around Cybertron. “That was an amazing movie! There are so many ideas I got from it.” Twilight said with stars in her eyes. “It sure was a good movie, maybe next time we can have the others over.” Applejack said. “Oh, I got so many design ideas from it!” Rarity said.  “I liked it too!” Star said then they all yawned, that made me yawn and I turned off my tablet seeing it is at ten percent.  “Well, as fun as this has been, I think it's time for bed.” I said as I saw they are starting to drift off even now. “What? Already? But we’re-” Rarity was then cut off when she yawned, “Alright, sleep does sound good right about now.” I smiled and walked over to the couch. “I'll sleep down here, goodnight ladies.” I jumped into the air and then slowly floated down onto the couch. “Goodnight Jake.” Twilight said, the girls all heading upstairs, though Star did look back at me with a smile on her face. “Goodnight Jake, thanks for the movie.” She said. I smiled and waved at her. “Goodnight Star, sleep well.” I said and closed my eyes as I relaxed and slowly fell asleep enjoying a peaceful sleep. > Chapter 12 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- As I woke up, I noticed a few things, one was the odd weight on my chest, and two was the gentle snoring I was hearing, I looked and saw that it was Star, who was asleep on me. A smile on her face as she cuddled closer to me.  I chuckled softly and smiled as I watched her and my chest warmed up again. ‘She is beautiful.’ She let out a yawn as she began to wake up, opening her eyes and looking at me, then she blushed when she saw I was awake. “M-morning.” She said shyly. I chuckled and smiled. “Good morning Star, as nice as this is, we should get up before someone sees us.” “Too late.” I heard Applejack say, looking over I saw she had a smirk on her face. “Enjoy yer little cuddle time?” She teased. I blushed, sat up quickly, and laughed nervously. “Oh um hi Ms. Applejack, um we weren't doing anything I promise.” Applejack laughed a bit. “Relax Jake, ah’m not suspectin' ya of doin' somethin'. So don’t get all worked up.” She said with a smirk. I sighed in relief and smiled a bit. “Thanks, is anyone else up?” I ask as I help Star sit up. “Nah, just me, due to livin' on the farm, ah’m always an early riser.” Applejack said, heading to the kitchen. “Want anythin ta eat?” I yawned and nodded. “Sure, I’ll help.” I stood up and walked into a closet before changing my clothes to my normal set and came out. “Alright, Star, do ya want to help?” Applejack asked her, who shook her head no in response. I looked over at Star and smiled softly before I looked back at Applejack. “She most likely does not have experience with food as changelings as far as I know don't eat physical food.” I told her as we headed into the kitchen. “Ah see. Maybe Ah’ll teach someday if she wants.” Applejack said. “Hmmm, how does pancakes sound?” I rubbed my chin. “Sounds good, in fact, I'll use my replicator to get us any supplies we might need for special pancakes. How does chocolate chip pancakes sound?” “Sounds good ta me.” Applejack replied, handing me the Replicator, “Good thing ah grabbed this before going in the kitchen, something told me we would need it.” I chuckled and set it on the table before I started making everything we would need and I finally realized something. “Hey, I just noticed where was Spike for the sleepover?” “Hmm, no idea, ah think Twilight might know.” Applejack replied. I shrugged and waved off the thought. “Meh, I was just wondering because of you know, me being part gem.” “Ah, you worried about him trying to eat ya or something?” Applejack asked. “Well ya don’t have to worry, Spike’s a good kid, he wouldn’t even think about it.” I looked at her as I started mixing some stuff. “You may know that but I don't know him yet, and the only other dragon I know was trying to eat some of my people.”  “Well, you don’t have to worry about Spike. Trust me, when you get to know him, you’ll see he’s a lot nicer than that other dragon.” Applejack said, helping me with the pancakes. “Maybe, I want to give him a chance but it's hard to make up for the first impression of a species.” I told her as I started to pour the mix into a pan. “Say, there is something I noticed I want to ask but I'm a bit worried it is rude or taboo to talk about.” “Well now you got me curious, what did you want to ask?” Applejack asked, raising an eyebrow at me. “Well, I noticed that there are more females of your species around than males, in fact, the only guys that I've seen so far are Spike and that Blueblood pony.” I told her as we started cooking the pancakes. Applejack seemed to think for a moment before shaking her head. “Honestly, I don’t know why ponies are like that, it’s always been like that for me.” She replied, flipping a couple of the pancakes. “But let me ask you this, how come there are more girl gems and you being the only male gem I’ve seen?” I chuckled and nodded. “I understand your confusion, but I'm technically the only gem with a gender, the others appear female and use female pronouns, but all gems except for myself are technically genderless. Their gem is their real form and their bodies are just hard light.” “I see.” Applejack said, sounding confused while putting some finished pancakes on a plate. I smiled as I poured out more and started setting the table. “Do you know any guys around my age? No offense to you or the others but I would like some guy friends, you know?” “Hmmmm.” Applejack said, thinking. “Well, there’s Spike once you get to know him, but other than him I can’t really think of anypony else.” I sighed and nodded. “I guess I'll check the school when I end up going.” I said as I flipped the pancake. “Don’t worry Jake, I’m sure you’ll find some guy friends to hang out with.” Applejack said with a kind smile. I nodded then turned to add the last of the pancakes as Twilight and Rarity walked in. “Oh hello you two.” “Hello, Jake.” Twilight said, yawning a bit. “So what’s cooking?’ I smirked, finished setting the table, and said. “Chocolate chip pancakes.” I then moved over and sat down as Star walked in and sat near me. The others sat down at the table as well, and I smiled as I pat Applejack’s back. “Yep, Ms. Applejack here made them while I bugged her.” “You helped me out, Jake.” Applejack said, smiling at him. I stuck my tongue out at her. “Nope, you did it all on your own miss Applejack.” I lied as I sat at the table. I saw her roll her eyes. “Sure ah did.” She said. “But enough of that, let’s eat.” We all started to eat and while we did I looked at Twilight. “Hey Ms. Twilight, where is Spike?” “Oh, he went on a trip to Canterlot.” Twilight said, eating her pancakes. “Ah I see, probably a good thing. I plan on taking the school paperwork to the teacher today, so if you head to the castle before me, could you tell Peridot one of the things I want next is a vehicle for me and the gems to get around quickly to areas that don't have warp pads yet.” I asked Twilight as I ate. “Sure, it should be no problem for us.” Twilight said with a smile. I chuckled a bit. “Especially after what we watched last night, you should have an idea of how a car works.” “Yep! That movie gave me so many ideas!” Twilight said while having stars in her eyes. “And I can’t wait to show my notes to Peridot, I’m sure she’ll agree that these designs are amazing.” I rubbed my chin. “Hard to say how she will react, but I don't want you both becoming obsessed with one project ok?” I told her as I finished my plate. “One project? We’ll most likely be building a ton of stuff all in one day!” She replied as she looked through her notes. I chuckled and started cleaning my plate. “Well keep in mind I don't have any funding yet, so don't use up everything, then again we have a replicator.” “Is the Replicator your answer for everything?” Applejack asked me with a teasing smirk. “You would rely on it too if you had limited supplies.” Star said as she walked up to Me. I shrugged and said. “Hey, it's free to use and I do have some money coming in eventually.” “That’s good to hear.” Rarity said, with a nod before taking a dainty bite of her food. I nodded and finished cleaning my plate. “Alright, I'm gonna head out.” I told them but the door opened and in came Spike with a scroll.  “Hey, I Have a message for Jake!” He called out and I poked my head around the corner.  “For me?” I asked surprised. “Yeah.” Spike said, handing me the scroll, I took it and read it.  Dear, Jake Diamond I am writing to you to inform you three of your gems appeared within my castle last night. They say they don't know how they got here and their names are Pearl, Topaz, and Topaz. Please come and get them as they are making some of my guards and the nobles uneasy. sincerely princess Celestia. Ps. Speak to me about these warp pads, I wish to know more about them. “So what did it say?” Star asked me as she leaned over my shoulder. “I need to go to Canterlot, Ms. Twilight if you want to come with me to the castle go get ready please.” I told her then bubbled the replicator and tapped the bubble sending it to the temple. “Alright, I’ll go with you.” She said as she stood up and used magic to pull a few items to her. “Want me to teleport us there?” I smirked and lifted my arm as I turned my omnitrix on. “Nah I got us covered.” “Don’t you dare.” Twilight warned as she took a step back. I smirked and pressed down on the Omnitrix transforming and when the light died down I looked myself over. “Huh, my pegasus form. I wonder what I'll name it, meh I'll think of that later.” I picked up Twilight and smirked as I flapped my wings and flew out the open door heading to the castle. “Jake!” Twilight shouted as she held on tighter. “I could have just teleported us there!” “Yeah but that's boring, plus I need some experience with my different forms.” I told her as we flew over the forest. Twilight held on to me even tighter as we did. Soon we land at the entrance to the castle and an Amethyst and Skinny come out. “Oh Ms. Twilight, it's good to see you again. Who is this?” I set her down and chuckled as I tapped the Omnitrix and changed back to myself. “It's just me, can you go find Pearl, Peridot, Garnet, and Deoxys please.” “Sure thing Jake.” Skinny said, heading back inside the castle. I sighed and looked at Twilight. “I forgot to ask for one of those robots, mind getting it Twilight?” “Sure.” Twilight said before running into the castle. I pulled out my phone and checked it, going through my videos, and found all the ones with the gems I think are at Celestia’s castle. “Let’s see, the Pearl could either be Blue or Yellow, or maybe it’s Volleyball, as for the Topaz’s it could be those two who were with Aquamarine.” I said to myself while looking over the information. Just as I finished gathering the videos, the gems and Twilight came out looking ready to go. “Ah hi everyone, we found three more gems. We are going to Canterlot, and Peridot and Twilight will be talking with Celestia about the warp pads.” “Do I have to?” Peridot asked, annoyed. “Of course you do.” Deoxys said, “It’ll let the princesses trust us more easily.” “Not just that, but if she gets interested in our tech maybe she will support us with some royal funds. That would make getting some things easier than just using the replicator for everything.” I added then looked around seeing everyone and Ship came over next to me. “Ok if you are all ready, we can either have Ship take us or Twilight teleport us.” “I think I’d rather take Ship.” Peridot said, Deoxys nodded her head as well. I nodded and looked at Ship. Ship barked happily before changing into a large green and black ship that looked like a box with two engines on its sides. “SHIIIIP!” “No matter how many times I see him do that, I’ll never get tired of it.” Twilight said with awe in her voice. I chuckled and nodded as we got on and strapped in. Ship took off and headed right for the castle. “Yeah, he is amazing, in fact.” I held my arm out and my Omnitrix scanned Ship. “Now I can be kinda like him.” “Ship!” Ship said excitedly. I chuckled and patted the wall. “My upgrade form isn't fully like you Ship, you can keep anything you fuse with, I won't be able to do that.” “Wait, your Upgrade form isn’t able to turn into stuff like this?” Twilight asked, gesturing to the transformed Ship. I wiggle my hand in a so-so gesture. “When I'm like Ship I'm more organic than he is, so I can't  save the blueprint of what I fuse with, but if there is enough material and I can picture it in my mind, I can change the tech I fuse with into what I need.” I explained to her. “Amazing!” Both Twilight and Peridot said, stars in their eyes. “What else can your Upgrade form do?” Peridot asked me. “Well, if I remember correctly, I can fuse with technology, upgrading it, making it stronger, faster, or into a weapon if I need to. I can fire an energy beam out of my 'eye', and I can sort of melt in a way, kinda like Ship, and use that to dodge any incoming attacks.” I explained to her. “Incredible!” Twilight said as she wrote down what I said. I nodded and smiled. “Yeah, but there is one weakness, because I'm living metal electricity can really hurt me.” I told them then saw Canterlot Castle coming up. “Really? Well, I guess it makes sense.” Twilight said, holding her chin in thought. I nodded then Ship started to land in front of the castle. “Yeah, if you want later I can show you more of my forms, but first we need to meet these new gems.”  Just as we stepped out, two royal guards walked up to us. “Jake Diamond?” One of them asked. I nodded and Ship changed back into his base form. “Yeah, that's me.” “Good, come with us, the princess told us you were coming.” The guard said before they turned around and headed back into the castle. I nodded and waved everyone to follow me. “That's good, everyone here is coming with me.” The guards nodded their heads and proceeded to lead us to the castle, though we did get some looks from some of the nobles. I smirked and flipped them off just for fun and Pearl slapped my back. “Jake that's rude, Geg told me what that means.” The nobles glared at me, then walked away, noses in the air. “But it did the trick of making them go away.” Deoxys said, trying to hold back a smile. I smirked and crossed my arms in victory making Pearl groan and cover her face. “Like I care what they think, they probably just sit around trying to get as rich as possible. But enough about them, it seems we are here.” I say as the guards open a large door. “Wonder what gems we will meet.” Pearl said while rubbing her chin. “The note said it is two Topazes and a Pearl.” I told her as we headed inside and saw Celestia and a sleepy-looking Luna. “Ah Jake, it is good to see you again.” Celestia said, Luna just gave me a tired wave. I smiled and waved back. “I came as soon as I got the note from Spike, and I brought Peridot and Twilight to help explain the warp pads, speaking of can we set one up in town while we are here?” “You may.” Celestia said, nodding her head. “Sweet, you can let Peridot know where it can go while she explains how they work. Now where are the three new gems?” I ask looking around. “They are waiting in another room as to avoid making the nobles nervous.” Luna tiredly said. I nodded and frowned. “I see, well what shall we do first, meet them or speak about the Warp pads?” “I believe you should meet them, the Warp Pads can wait a bit.” Celestia said with a soft smile as she stood up. I nodded as she and her sister started walking down from their thrones. “Sounds good, shall we go meet them now?” “Yes, follow us.” Celestia said as she and Luna led us into another room. I looked over as we entered and I saw Volleyball also known as Pink Pearl who was the same height as Pearl, she had pink hair with twin buns on either side of her head, an equally pink dress, and her left eye was replaced by cracks, her gem was on her stomach, and the two Topazes. The Topazes were big, both wearing an orange and brown suit with an orange helmet and visor, their gems on opposite sides of their heads, that kidnapped Steven. “Huh, that is interesting.”  The three Gems turned and looked at us as we entered, I waved and smiled. “Hello there, my name is Jake and we are the crystal gems, do you know about us?” “We fought you before, didn’t we?” One of the Topazes asked while scratching her head. I shook my head but smiled. “It's complicated but think of me as a different cut of Steven.” I told her. The two Topazes nodded their heads. I smirked and said. “Well, I and the gems here are finding all gems that appear on this world and are offering them a home, if you want you can join us.” “A place to stay does sound nice.” Volleyball said softly. I smiled and nodded. “Great, Pearl can tell you about the place while me, Peridot, and Ms. Twilight speak with Princess Celestia.” “Yes now come on you three, the princesses are waiting.” Pearl said as she gestured to the door.  I nodded and leaned close to Pearl before I whispered. “Just a heads up, that Pearl was Pink’s before you.” I saw Pearl go a bit wide-eyed before she started talking to the three new gems. I sigh hoping she can handle that news, then head back to the princesses. “We are back.” “How did the meeting with the new gems go?” Celestia asked me. “So far things are looking good, I know who they are and they did agree to come with us.” I told her and looked over to Luna. “Why do you seem so tired?” “My sister rules the day while the night, so when it’s morning I sleep.” Luna said before yawning and covering her mouth with a light blush. “I see, well I'm sorry we are keeping you up.” I said to her as Peridot walked up and her fingers spun around turning into a large screen. “It’s fine. Now let’s talk about these Warp Pads.” Luna said, just as Peridot started talking. “As you can see on my screen, a warp pad is used to transport a gem from one pad to another and can even be used to travel to another planet, given both have a galaxy warp pad.” Peridot said showing images on her screen. “So this Galaxy Warp lets one travel to other planets as long as both of them have one?” Celestia asked, Peridot nodded while showing them a much bigger warp pad. “Yes, if two planets have a galaxy warp, gems can travel from planet to planet.” “I don't plan on letting Peridot make one if you're worried Princess.” I told her. “Oh, I wasn’t worried about that. I was only curious.” Celestia replied. I nodded a bit before Peridot continued. “It would not take long to make a new warp pad and I only require an area of a few feet of space to place them.” “Well we can give a few good locations of where to put your Warp Pad, but I would ask Twilight as well if I were you, she has lived in Canterlot before.” Celestia said with a soft smile to Twilight. “I see, then I will ask Ms. Sparkle.” Peridot nodded and closed her screen. “Is there anything else you would like to ask?” Celestia asked us. I tapped my chin and then asked. “Well, would you mind if we put a base on your moon, Luna?”  Luna thought about what I asked, then responded. “I don’t mind. But why?” I pointed to the sky. “Well, if we have a moon base we could use it to find gems, I'm sure if Peridot and Twilight work together they could make a way to scan for Gems.” Luna nodded in understanding. “Very well, I’ll let you make a Warp Pad on the moon. And if you need my help or have questions I’ll be happy to answer or help.” “I appreciate that princess, thankfully we have Ship to get us there and once a warp pad is put on it the gems can start making the base. Of course, the hard part will be getting air up there.” I told her. “Well you don’t have to worry about that, there’s already air on the moon, otherwise I wouldn't be here right now.” Luna said, confusing me a bit. I blinked in surprise before shruging. “That actually makes sense. Do you two have any questions?” The two of them shook their heads no, causing me to nod my head. “Well if that's all let's set up the Canterlot warp pad and get our new friends before heading ho-'' I am interrupted as I feel something hit the top of my head. “Ow!” I looked down to see a wooden game controller.  I frowned and grabbed it hearing a voice like Rick's token. ‘I am Deltorix the gamer, if you seek a friend, ally, or simply wish to trade skills, simply say 'send invite' and I may come. What you want to do with the skills I offer will determine what skills I will teach you.’ “Huh, this is a token, maybe I'll call this guy in a bit.” I said to myself. “What was that?” Luna asked as she looked at me with worry. “We saw something fall on your head, are you alright?” I looked over to her. “It is a token, it is how displaced contact and meet each other.” “Oh, a Displaced Token? For who exactly?” Celestia asked while raising an eyebrow. “Someone named, Deltorix. He called himself the gamer.” I told her while looking at the token. “The Gamer? What an odd title.” Luna said with a confused frown. “I agree, but let's move on to making that warp pad, do either of you wish to watch?” I asked the princesses. “Yes, we do.” Celestia said with Luna nodding her head in agreement. “It would give us a first look at how these Warp Pads are made.” I looked at Peridot and Twilight. “Ok you two, pick a spot, and let's make a warp pad, and Garnet could you go get Pearl and our new friends?” Garnet nodded her head as Peridot and Twilight started talking about a suitable spot for the Warp Pad. While they talked I looked at the princesses and said. “I hope the new gems didn't cause any trouble.” “They didn’t, the three of them were calm and quiet the entire time we waited for you.” Celestia said with a soft smile. “I see, well I am glad about that.” I told them just as everyone came into the room while Peridot and Twilight made their choice of where to put the pad. “Alright, me and Peridot have found a suitable spot for the Warp Pad, it’s gonna be a bit away from most of Canterlot's buildings, but still close enough for any emergency.” Twilight told us. I nodded with a smile. “That's fine, let's get going.” I pointed forward and started walking, only to come back when no one followed me. “Um which way?” Twilight laughed a bit. “Follow me.” She said and proceeded to lead us to the Warp Pad spot, which turned out to be at some sort of old library. “Ah, your old home.” Celestia said softly with a smile. I looked around and nodded. “Seems like a good spot, ok Peridot set it up.” I patted her back.  Peridot nodded her head, pressing a few buttons on her limb enhancer, and soon a Flask Robonoid rolled over and drilled into the ground, once it was done, it began to fill it up with the liquid that would make the Warp Pad. After just a few minutes the warp pad is finished and I wave over it. “Ta-da!” I smiled at the princesses. “And now the third warp pad is made.” “Hmm, interesting.” Celestia said, looking at the Warp Pad with a curious expression. I looked over to Pearl. “I am going to Ponyville to do some stuff and summon this displaced, take care of everyone please, and don't forget Ship.” I then step onto the warp pad and wave to the princesses as I activate it and head to Ponyville. Once I reached Ponyville, I stepped off the Warp Pad and looked around. I then pulled out the wooden controller and said. “Send Invite.” After a few seconds, what looked like a computer window popped up with a picture of a door on it. The door then became three-dimensional, then it opened up and a male dragon walked through it. He was crimson red, had spikes going down his back, had jet-black horns, amber eyes, and a piece of armor on his shoulder. “Hello, as you may have guessed, I’m Deltorix, you can call me Del for short. Who are you and when in the timeline are we?” After he finished talking the window behind him cracks up and then shatters into pixels.  “I’m Jake, as for when we are, I’m guessing you mean when we are in the show, well Twilight's sleepover just happened last night if that helps.” I told him, looking back at his eyes. “Ah, early season one, good to know. So need some help or just wanted to hang?” He asked me. I shrugged my shoulders. “Just to hang really.” I replied then started walking. He nodded and smirked. “Alright, judging by your outfit I'd say you're a Steven universe displaced, am I right?” I nodded my head in response. “Yep. So what’s it like in your Equestria?” He wiggled his hand. “It is like the show for the most part except for some more...darker elements, but it is a fine place.” He then started floating and smirked. “But for now, how about some power-sharing?” “Power sharing?” I asked him. “What does that mean?” “It is a part of being a displaced kid, we normally give each other some powers and some extra training. That or we try to kill each other over ideals.” He shrugged and pulled a notebook and threw it to me. “Read this and tell me if you want any of those powers.” I opened the notebook and read through it surprised at how many powers are listed. Size Control: can control your size but can only shrink to 2 feet and can only grow as big as your natural size. One man band: can play any song on any instrument, even vocals. Flame Breath: can breathe fire. Winged Flight: flying with wings. Bind: create magical rope that ties up a target. Observe: information from looking at an object and saying observe also works with people. I.D. Create and I.D. Escape: Create/enter and destroy/exit an illusionary space called instant dungeons this space at the lowest level is a mirror copy of the physical world without the people in it you can move around inside the space and exit and you’ll be in the same spot that you exited in the real world useful for sinking into enemy strongholds and gathering information at higher levels you can create fake monsters to train with inside these illusionary spaces even create time dilation. Claws of Fury: sabe your hand/claw into someone. Sinister Slam: grabbing a person's head and slamming them into the ground or a wall hard enough to create a crater. Slice and Dice: scratching the target enough to leave claw marks. Meditate: comes to mind and recovers magic and any other energies that you use faster. Teach: enables you to pass on any abilities you have to others by simply saying teach the skill you wish to teach and then the person's name example, “ teach person A Earth bending” person A would then be able to not only earth bend but the basic information would be put into his head along with creating a new energy network if that network is needed. Life Drain: drain the life out of someone this can either age them rapidly or weaken them. Magic Arrow: create arrows made of magic that launch towards a target stronger forms of the spell can be created where the arrows spin to do more damage, explode, or even have an elemental effect such as lightning. Shadow Clone Jutsu: able to create clones of yourself that are fully capable of doing everything you can do but are destroyed after one hit but all the information that they learned will be transferred to the original. Dragon mail: the spell spike used to send letters.; note requires fire breath. Blade-geyser: an ability from Darksiders by hitting the ground with your fist creates blades that shoot up from the ground around you damaging any nearby enemies, this skill is powered by wrath and can only be recharged by hitting opponents. Stone-skin: a skill from Darksiders, this covers your body in a stone-like second skin that increases your defense; the skill is powered by wrath which can only be recharged by hitting opponents. Stasis hollow: this skill is from Darksiders, this ability gives you cold resistance and a frost damage boost to your attacks, this skill is powered by wrath and can only be recharged by hitting opponents. Flame hollow: this skill is from Darksiders, visibility gives you heat resistance and burn damage boost to your attacks, this skill is powered by wrath and can only be recharged by hitting opponents. Swordsmanship: The ability to use a sword correctly. Marksman: the ability to use any projectile weapon correctly. Dream Magic: able to control your own dream and enter the dream world the same as Princess Luna. Death Beam: A concentrated beam of ki That is fired from the finger. Earth bending: The ability to control earth through martial arts movements. Water bending: The ability to control water through martial arts movements. Air bending: the ability to control air through martial arts movements. Fire bending: The ability to control fire through martial arts movements. Esper telekinesis: The psychic ability to move things with your mind. Spiritual pressure: a way to release your spiritual energy in the Area around you that will make it difficult for anyone with less spiritual energy than you to move. Force Push/Grab/Pull: The most basic ability of the force with this you will be able to push objects grab objects and pull objects towards you. (this also includes people) Fire: The basic Final Fantasy/Kingdom Hearts fire spell. medical ninjutsu: A technique that uses chakra to repair the human body. Ki ball: the ability to create a ball of concentrated ki that is explosive. Kamehameha wave: translated it means turtle devastation wave, this ability is a two-handed technique where you fire a beam of ki at a target. Water bending healing: uses water bending to repair physical and spiritual damage to a person. Intimidating Roar: allows you to let out a thunderous roar that will intimidate and possibly scare off weaker enemies. Ki flight: allows you to fly using the power of ki. Blacksmithing: allows you to forge metals and other materials into weapons armor or anything else that can be made out of metals. Detect bloodlust: warns you if someone’s bloodlust is aimed towards you. Sense danger: warns you when there is danger nearby. magic recovery 1: recover magic by walking. Mana Recovery 2:  recover magic by fighting. Mars Bane: allows you to do a four-hit combo. God’s Arms: allows you to use any two-handed weapon with one hand minus weapons that need two hands such as bows. Alchemy: The basic ability to deconstruct and reconstruct matter. (Note you will still need to use transportation circles as you will not get the transmutation circle free version) Ki sense: allows you to sense ki from others. Ki stealth: the ability to hide your ki from others who can sense it. Construction: the ability to build any form of building. Seismic sense: A technique originally developed by the blind badgermoles, skilled earth benders can sense vibrations through the ground, "seeing" by sensing their surroundings and making a mental image of it. It allows for a 360-degree field of "vision", outside of normal line-of-sight. To operate, the user needs direct contact with the ground, preferably without something like shoes in between. The technique is only usable on surfaces the user can bend. Being blind, Toph constantly used this technique to navigate the world; she described it as "kind of like seeing with my feet". seismic sense is so acute that the user is capable of sensing even ants moving about, can identify people by the way they walked, and can almost always tell if someone is lying by sensing his or her physical reactions, such as breathing and heart rate. Ki healing: The ability to heal wounds. Uses your ki to heal the target’s wounds, and can restore one's complete health and energy within seconds. Force healing: This is a power that uses the Force to accelerate the natural healing process rapidly.  Illusion magic: can cast simple illusions  Metal bending: lets you bend impure metal Magic stealth: the ability to hide your magic from those who can sense it. Spiritual stealth: the ability to hide your spiritual power from those who can sense it. Wrath stealth: the ability to hide your wrath from those who can sense it; note requires Wrath energy. Esper stealth: the ability to hide your esper power from those who can sense it; note requires esper energy. Chakra stealth: the ability to hide your chakra from those who can sense it; note requires chakra. Thunder Punch: Fists become covered in Lightning, which allows him to punch right through an 8 in. thick steel wall, but must have a ton of energy to do it, or can simply punch the air to launch lightning bolts. Thunder Kick: Able to kick a robot’s head 10 ft. into the air, and can send lightning at an opponent if he wishes to.  Iron Tail: The user's tail becomes as hard as iron, sharp too, and can cut through solid rock; note requires a tail. Gate of Oblivion: Only meant for those who are experienced with magic, this spell summons several runes and is strong enough, if used incorrectly, to destroy half a mountain.  I looked over the abilities and made my decision. “Swordsmen, meditation, fire, dream magic, illusion magic, the force, both I.D.s, water bending, magic arrow, and bind.” I said, listing off the abilities that I thought were useful. I watched him scratch his chin. “Alright sounds easy enough.” He then held a hand over my head. “Teach Jake, swordsmanship, meditation, fire, dream magic, illusion magic, force push/grab/pull, instant dungeon create, Instant dungeon escape, water bending, magic arrow, and bind.” His hand glows then I feel a burning pain throughout my body as a surge of information fills my head. “Ow..” I said, holding my head in slight pain. “Yeah I should have warned you, it can hurt when getting an energy network.” He told me while putting his hand on my head as blue energy covered it. “It’s fine.” I said softly as my headache went away. “So do you want to meet some of my friends or take a walk around Ponyville?” He shrugged a bit. “Sure, it would be interesting.”  “Well, the Gems and I are currently living in the castle in the Everfree, so we can take a walk around Ponyville first then meet them later.” I said, as we started walking, or I was, he was floating along. “Sure, and you're lucky most displaced that I’ve met get displaced alone.” He rubbed his chin. “I’m gonna do a bit of training while we walk around.” Then his eyes changed to a deep blue while his iris became a six-pointed star. “What kind of training involves your eyes changing?” I asked him, the ponies giving Del a few glances but otherwise didn’t seem to mind the dragon.  He looked around. “Huh, an anthro Eqiuestra, every world I've been to has been like this so far.” Then he looked at me. “Well, my powers let me make any of my skills stronger simply by using them. My eyes are a special skill that I created that allows me to do various things and they gain experience and level up just by having them active.” “Cool, so what do you do in your Equestria?” I ask him. He looked up and chuckled. “At the moment I am trying to uncover a state secret.” He looked around again and then frowned before in a flash of light he was in red wizard-looking armor. “Seems dragons wear clothes here.” He said pointing over to Spike. “So?” I said, shrugging my shoulders. “Not counting my shoulder piece, I was naked. I personally don't care but I don't want to make the ponies uncomfortable.” He told me as he continued to follow me. “So, I noticed one ability that seemed to be more powerful than most of the other abilities, Gate of Oblivion, mind telling where you got that?” I asked him, waving at Rarity who waved back with a smile. He chuckled and made an image of Rick. “I got it from this guy, he is a friend of mine I met a while ago.” “Rick? You know him? He helped me get used to living in Equestria when I first arrived, even taught me to control my anger a bit.” I said, looking down a bit. “Ah, yeah he is a nice guy. I helped him fight off a god of chaos the last time I saw him.” Del said as he continued to look around town then I watched him use one of his powers to catch a yellowish earth pony’s bag of groceries. “So do you usually trade powers with another Displaced when you meet them?” I ask him, raising an eyebrow. “I do yeah, in fact, I would like to get a few of your powers, and I can get some from some training.”  He told me with a small smirk.  “Really? How would you get my powers?” I asked him, raising an eyebrow in confusion. “Well, when I take someone into an instant dungeon and they face the monsters inside, sometimes a skill book will drop that is a skill that they naturally have.” He explained to me by adding some video examples with his magic. I nodded my head in understanding, “Cool.” I said before asking. “Well if that’s how you get a new ability, then do you want to head to this instant dungeon now or wait until after you meet my friends?” He rubs his chin thinking. “How about after, then they can join us.” “Alright.” I said, then looked to the Everfree. “Well, we can head there now, Twilight and some of my friends should be back at the castle by now.” “Cool, want to get there fast or slow?” He asked me as he started walking towards the forest. “Either way is fine.” I replied with a shrug. “Alright, fast way it is.” In a flash of light, there is a set of golden claws on his hand and he holds it over to me. “Think of where you want to go and swing them down.” I nodded my head and took them, then thought about the castle and swung them down, a portal opened that looked like a swirling storm. “Alright, here we go.” He went through. I followed right behind him, going through the portal, and ended up at the castle in the Everfree. “These things are pretty useful.” I said, looking at the golden claws before returning them to him. “Thanks, I was thinking of getting some more items like that, ever heard of Xiaolin Showdown?” He asked me. “Can’t say that I have.” I replied, then noticed that Skinny and Amethyst were currently talking. “Ah, well to make a long story short, it's a show about four kids trying to find magic items before bad guys, and this is one of them.” He told me wiggling the golden claws before they disappear in a flash of light. “Cool.” I said then I waved a hand over at the gems. “Anyway, over there is Amethyst and Skinny, but you can already tell that’s them.” Del rubbed his chin and looked Skinny over. “Huh, Jasper sure did slim down didn't she?” “That’s not the Jasper you are thinking of, she is a different cut of Jasper.” I told him while shaking her head.  “Ah, I see sorry about that, my mistake.” He said with a shrug. “It’s fine. Want to go say hi?” I ask him. “Then again, they might try and attack you, the last dragon they met tried to eat them.” He scratched his chin then smirked and put his hands together and in a puff of smoke he looked like a red earth pony. “There, problem solved.” I blinked and shrugged. “Cool, well let’s go over there and say hi.” I said, walking towards the two gems. Once we got closer Del waved and said. “Hello, my name is Del, and I have an offer for all the gems in this castle.” Then he grins a bit, but just enough to seem like he is planning a prank, not something malicious. “Yo dude.” Amethyst said, Skinny waving a bit. “Hey Amethyst, can you go get everyone please?” I asked her, she nodded and ran off and Del chuckled with a smirk. “What's so funny?” “Oh just thinking of the look of their face when I do what I have planned.” He said with a smirk. Pretty soon, everyone had met up with me and Del. “What’s with all these constant interruptions?!” Peridot asked annoyed. “Hello everyone, I have an offer for you all. I have a way for you to train against artificial monsters or in this case artificial gems, so any of you that wishes to practice their fighting simply stay here and those who don't may leave.” He said while tapping at the air in front of him. “Artificial gems? How is that possible?” Pearl asked with a confused frown. “Think of them as hard light copies, they will act like enemies in a video game, knowing only to attack, but they will just turn to pixels once defeated, they aren't alive.” Del explained to her while still tapping the air. Most of the Gems started to think about it, and then Garnet, Amethyst, Pearl, Deoxys, and the two Topazes stepped up. “We’d like to do this training.” Deoxys said with a soft smile. “Alright.” He grabbed me and said. “Young Jake, he is going to be in the training as well. Now everyone grab onto each other and me.” They all did just that, grabbing onto each other and Del as well, he grinned and then called out. “I.D. create!” The whole area changed to be the sky temple from the TV show and we are surrounded by corrupted gems. “Round one, corrupted gems.” We immediately started fighting the corrupted Gems, bubbling my fists and punching a Centipeetle away from me, then made a hexagonal shield with spikes to block another corrupted Gems fist before sending the spiked wall at it, successfully defeating it. I heard a roar and looked behind and immediately brought up my shields to block a corrupted gem trying to bite me, it kept clawing and biting the shield until a beam went through its chest, once it disappeared, I saw that Deoxys was in her Attack Form and was the one who helped me. “Thanks!” I said to her, and she nodded and proceeded to fight more corrupted, I cracked my knuckles and charged at a corrupted gem, and soon, all of the corrupted Gems were defeated.  Deltorix clapped his hands as he floated above us all. “Well done now give me a moment.” He crossed his fingers and copies of his dragon form appeared and they flew down and started collecting bits, potion bottles, small crystal shards, and a book. “Now, if any of you picked up any of these bits I ask you to give them to me, as they are counterfeits and could destabilize your Equestria if you were to use them as legitimate money.” “Aw man, I was hoping I could keep them for my room.” Amethyst said, handing Del what would have been two hundred bits. “Sorry, but I don't want to let any of this fake money get out.” He told her then all the clones disappeared in puffs of smoke and he floated up higher. “Next round, sorry Garnet, force fusion experiments.”  I could see Garnet freeze a bit before nodding her head. “I know they aren’t real, so I don’t have to worry about them.” She said softly, most likely to reassure herself, as well as Ruby and Sapphire. Soon they all start coming from the entrance to the arena, then more of them climb over the walls to get into the area and there are about a hundred of them. “Oh and after these guys you get a surprise.”  I nodded my head, wondering what Del had in store for us, just as the Forced Fusions Experiments- 'Damn that’s a mouthful, think I’ll just call them FFE’s.' -charged at us, I saw the two Topazes fuse and knocked some FFE’s away with her weapon, I made a spiked wall and sent it at the experiments, successfully hitting a few. “Nice hits!” Del called out as he watched. “Thanks!” I said, then bubbled my fists while making spikes on them and punched a few more FFE’s, one of them managed to grab me and was about to hit me until one of Garnet's gauntlets came flying in and punching the FFE away from me before exploding. After a few minutes, but it felt like hours, we eventually defeated them, with Amethyst getting herself poofed when she tried to fight an FFE that had a ton of arms by herself. Del dropped down and picked up Amethyst. “I will watch over her while you face-” The whole arena started to shake before a massive hand lifted up into the sky. “That, have fun everyone.” Then he flew back into the sky. We watched horrified as the massive arm lay on one side of the arena then a second arm lifted up before a massive body came up out of the clouds. It was a mix of many colors and looked like it had no skin and showed its muscles. It had no nose, patchwork hair that was multicolored as well, and worst of all when it roared at us I saw its teeth were arms. It raised its fist and sent it towards us, we all began to run in different directions as it slammed its fist right where we were, I popped up the dial on my Omnitrix, looking for the one alien that could match the Cluster, I looked and saw Deoxys was flying pretty fast towards the Cluster, an energy ball in her hands and when she got close to it, sent it flying. When the energy ball hit the Cluster, there was a large explosion. I then felt a tap on my shoulder and saw Del. “Hey, I noticed your Omnitrix let me give you a new DNA sample.” He pulled out something like my Omnitrix and held it over my Omnitrix. “Omni badge, give this Omnitrix Saiyan DNA.” “Thanks, but for this, I need something a bit bigger.” I said, finding the alien I wanted and slammed my hand down on the dial, in a flash I was now Way Big, like my other transformations, Way Big was different in color, the usual white body was blue while the red was yellow and the black stripes were pink. “Way Big!” I shouted, then after making sure I didn’t crush anyone, I began to fight the Cluster. The cluster roared at me as it then threw a right punch at me. I managed to grab its fist and deliver a right hook to its face, then still holding the arm, I kept punching it in the face over and over again. It wailed in pain then opened its mouth wider and light started forming in its maw with most of the arms adding to the ball of light. “Uh-oh, looks like it's gonna fire its laser.” Del said. “That meme is so old!” I shouted, giving the Cluster an uppercut just as it fired its laser, then before it could try again, I ripped its arm off. The cluster stumbles back and roars in pain. “Nice work it is down to a thousand life points, finish him off.” Del said before making lots of clones. I nodded my head and crossed my arms and fired a laser at it, cutting it in half, another beam hit the Cluster and I looked and saw that it was Deoxys who was firing the beam. Then as the Cluster broke into pixels all of Del’s clones rushed over the side where the Cluster was. “Good work everyone, now for the final round, and Jake you may want to change back.” Del said as he made a countdown appear over our heads showing we had less than a minute.  I nodded my head and pressed the Omnitrix symbol on my chest and was back to normal, I could see that everyone including me was tired. “What else are you gonna send at us?” I asked Del with a worried frown after we rested for a short bit. Del smirked and the countdown hit zero. He pointed to the entrance and out of the fog walked different colored versions of Garnet, who is black and purple, Amethyst, who is black and white, Pearl, who is black and red, and Steven who is wearing a black shirt with a red star, all with their weapons out and glaring at me and the gems.  “Oh, you have got to be joking.” I said, ducking under Steven's shield and sent a few hexagonal walls at him, I could see Garnet was charging at her double, both had their fists pulled back and when the two were close to each other, sent them flying, but their fists connected and they kept trying to land a hit on the other, the scene reminded me of Steven and the Gems fighting against Lapis water clones of them. I bubbled my fists again charging at my double and tried to hit him but he kept blocking my attacks with his shield, I then had to duck under his shield when he tried to hit my head with it, and swept his legs from right under him, causing him to land on his back, just when I was about to land a hit, the Amethyst double wrapped her whip around me and began to spin around. I was then sent flying straight at the pillar, but thankfully Deoxys had grabbed me before I could hit it. “We are getting our asses kicked.” She said, then pointed at the still fused Topaz fighting the Pearl double, who had upgraded her spear to a trident, I looked and saw that the doubles, minus Steven, had all upgraded their weapons, the Garnet now had spiked knuckles while the Amethyst had that mace whip.  “Oh, I forgot to mention I made sure to make them as strong as possible, oh and look at that they can even fuse together.” Del said as the clone Pearl and clone Amethyst fused into a clone Opal. “Oh come on!” I said, Deoxys dodging the fusion's arrows with ease until the Garnet double appeared from out of nowhere and punched her in the face, causing us to fall to the ground. “Ow.” I said, then got up, just as the doubles charged at us, I looked around and saw Pearl, Garnet, and the no longer poofed Amethyst, then had an idea, “Guys fuse into Alexandrite!” I said to them. “Uh-oh, you shouldn't have said that so loud.” Del said and when I looked at him confused he pointed back at the clones as they all started to dance together, even Steven. “Oh, now that is just cruel.” I said, as all of them glowed and the giant form of Obsidian stood in front of us, letting out a roar as she tried to stomp on us, luckily we all managed to avoid her and hid behind a pillar, I looked at the three. “You have to fuse right now, I’ll try and hold her off until you do.” I said, popping up the dial again, and quickly chose Humungusaur, in a flash I was now the giant lizard and was charging at Obsidian, who was still a bit taller than me. “Oooo good choice hope this fight goes well.” I heard Del say as I grabbed Obsidian's leg and started lifting her. I then slammed her on the ground and continued to do so over and over again and then threw her towards a pillar. The clone slowly stood back up and roared as she formed each of the gem weapons then slammed them together forming the handle of her sword. “Oh boy, I hope that thing isn’t sharp enough to cut through Vaxxasaurian hide.” I said, gulping as she made the blade hilt. She opened her second mouth and bit down on the sword handle then slowly pulled out a full blade that was red hot. “I think she is taking this seriously now. Want me to step in and end this?” Del asked.  I saw a slight glow and soon Alexandrite stood next to me. “Nope, pretty sure we got this.” I said, then charged at the large fusion, just as she tried to swing her blade at me but I simply ducked under it and punched Obsidian in the gut, while Alexandrite used my back to jump up and deliver a kick to her face. Obsidian stumbled back and swung her arms trying to keep from falling backwards into the endless sky. She got her balance by stabbing the sword into the ground, then roared and blasted me with lava. Or she would have if I hadn’t moved to the left and rammed my shoulder into her, sending her falling off the Sky Temple, I watched as she roared as she fell, and then she disappeared through a cloud. "How do you like that?!” I shouted down at her. There was a small boom and a few Deltorix clones flew down there. “Good work everyone, time to power down as that was the last challenge.” Del said with a bit of a grin. I nodded as the Omnitrix timed out and I was back to normal, I then fell on my back, exhausted, and I saw Alexandrite unfused and Garnet, Pearl, and Amethyst too were on the ground. Del floated down and smiled. “Well done everyone. Well, time to go home.” He clapped and the world cracked and shattered like glass and we are back where we started. “So does anyone want anything else?” “Not that I can think of.” I said, getting up. He nodded then seemed to get serious as he pulled out a red dagger. “I've decided to give these to each displaced I meet. It is a dagger made of a material called demon stone, it's extremely deadly. A single cut is hard to heal even with the healing factor or magic and it absorbs magic making it even harder to heal with magic and is the only weapon I can think of that is capable of killing a God.” He said as he held the dagger out to me.  I stared at it wide-eyed. “W-why would I need this?!” I asked him, shocked that he would give me such a weapon. “Just in case a specific alicorn decides you are a threat.” He said, frowning. “Celestia and Luna both sometimes attack their displaced.”  “But they trust me and haven’t once tried to harm me or my friends, and I would hate to break their trust if I had this.” I said, gesturing to the red dagger. Del shrugged while still offering it to me. "This is just a safety net, it doesn't have to be used against the sisters.” I hesitantly reached out and grabbed the knife and looked at it, I then put it in my pocket and nodded to Del. “Thanks….though I’m sure I won’t need it.” He smiled a bit. “No problem, and it is just in case, so if that's all we have to do, how about ya send me home.” “Sure.” I said nodding my head. “Our contract is complete.” Another golden window opened and Del waved at us. “Well, good luck my new friends, stay safe, and a bit of a heads up, after the Grand Galloping Gala a reality warper will be set free.” Then he walked through the door and it cracked up and shattered.  “Will...that isn't ominous.” I said blinking. “Really? I didn’t think it was that ominous!” Amethyst said, sarcastically. “Dude literally said a reality warper will appear after some Grand Galloping Gala!” I look over at her with a raised eyebrow. “I was being sarcastic Amethyst. But yes that is worrying I'll have to look through Rick's notes.” I scratched my chin. “Please do, I do not want to deal with a reality warper.” Pearl said, shuddering. “Just imagine what kind of destruction they'll cause.” I nodded and stood up. “Alright let’s head inside, Pearl please go check on the satellite just to be safe.” I then head to the temple. “Right, I just have to find out where Ship ran off to.” Pearl said, looking around while I saw the little Galvanic Mechamorph playfully hiding in a bush, the green on him making him blend with the leaves. “Ship.” He said quietly, wanting me to keep quiet, I chuckled with a smile and shook my head. > Chapter 13 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- ’Well, today’s the day, I start school today because Miss Cheerilee had me go. Frankly, I don’t mind, it’ll just be annoying having to deal with another thing here in Equestria. I looked up from my journal and saw Pearl getting my school supplies, as well as some unnecessary items, and putting them in my school bag. I chuckled and shook my head. ‘I think Pearl is confused about how school works, but that's fine. I'm sure things will work out. I'm just hoping I can make some male friends.’ I closed my book and put it in my gem before getting up and walking up to Pearl. “Pearl, thank you for your help but I don't think I'll need a life preserver or a can opener.”  “But Jake, you never know when these might be of use yet!” Pearl said. “What if you take a trip to the ocean? O-or-” I gently put my hand over her mouth.  “Pearl, calm down, please. Even if there is a trip to the ocean I can just stay in the shallows or call Ship to bring me what I need.” I shook my head and lowered my hand. “If it will make you feel better you can talk with Twilight while I'm at school. She can tell you how school works.”  Pearl would have said something but nodded her head. “Alright, sorry I’m just a bit used to getting worked up over small things.” She said. I chuckled and smirked. “I have noticed. Well, I'm gonna grab some lunch then head to school.” I waved at her as I walked into the temple and headed into the burning room to find the replicator. I popped the bubble and programmed in a lunch box then added something to eat and packed it away in my backpack. That’s when I noticed my backpack was orange with the straps being blue, I shook my head and said. “Deoxys.” In a flash, my backpack was now Deoxys, who was giving me a pout. “Why did you try to disguise yourself as my backpack?”  I asked with a smile and chuckle. “It was Pearl's idea!” Deoxys said. "Well also mine, but well, we were worried something might happen while you are at school.” I chuckled and patted her shoulder. “The worst that can happen is I get bullied because I'm new. I have lived through years of school. I know what to expect, but if you really don't feel comfortable you can stay in town and speak with Twilight about the school.” Deoxys nodded her head. “Okay, but the first sign of trouble I’m heading straight to the school.” She said. I sighed but smiled softly. “Alright, just don't hurt anyone unless they are a legitimate threat and not just someone acting tough or someone that hasn't even touched me.” I put my real backpack on and start heading out of the temple. “Bye Jake!” Pearl said. “Have a good day at school.” I waved at her before I stepped onto the warp pad and warp to town. Once there I started running to get to the school. “I hope the kids there don’t drive me nuts.” It wasn't long before I found the red schoolhouse and walked up to it with some kids hanging out around the playground.  “Hi, Jake!” I heard Sweetie Belle say to me, as she and Scootaloo walked up to me, well more like fly in Scootaloo’s case. I smiled and waved. “Hello Sweetie Bell, Scootaloo. How are you two doing?” “We’re doing good.” Sweetie Belle said. “Good? I’m doing awesome! I can finally fly like Rainbow Dash!” Scootaloo said, hugging me. “And I have you to thank for it!” I blushed lightly and chuckled patting her back. “You are welcome, don't mention it.” I looked at Sweetie Belle for help. “Come on Scootaloo, let go.” Sweetie Belle said, then in a tone like Raritie's. “You’re embarrassing the poor dear.” I crossed my arms after Scootaloo let go and shook my head. “I just don't want to make my girlfriend jealous.”  “Aww, that’s so sweet of you.” Sweetie Belle said, and then a bell rang. “We should get to class soon.” I chuckled and started walking to the classroom still having a light blush. “So what are Equestrian schools like?” I asked them as we entered the classroom.  “Well, we learn about math, history, geography, and all that boring stuff.” Scootaloo said. I chuckled and smiled. “Well, I hope there are a few classes on magic.” I said mostly to myself as I looked around for an open seat.  “Jake Diamond.” I heard Cheerilee say to me. “You’ll be sitting next to Applebloom.” She pointed at a seat next to filly who had a yellow fur coat and red mane, with a bright pink bow in her mane, and she wore a simple T-shirt and overalls. I nodded to the teacher before I walked over and sat down after taking my backpack off. I could hear some students snickering and whispering about me but I ignored them. ‘Here we go, time to deal with the bullies.’ “Howdy, I’m Applebloom.” The filly next to me, Applebloom, said to me. I smiled softly and nodded my head. “I am Jake, I hope this isn't rude but are you related to Applejack?” “Yep, she’s my big sis.” Applebloom replied with a proud smile. I chuckled and smiled. “Well, it is nice to meet you.” I told her before Cheerlee told us to quiet down. “Now class, we have a new student, Jake would you like to tell the class about yourself?” She asked with a kind smile. I stood up just as all the teenagers looked at me. “My name is Jake, and I am a gem-human hybrid, me and my family moved to the area recently, and I am planning on causing a lot of changes.” Then I sat back down. Cheerilee nodded her head. “Alright class, I want you all to be nice to Jake.” She said with a kind smile. “Yes, Miss Cheerilee.'' The class replied, she nodded her head and began the lesson. We started with some math and I did well as I have already learned this kind of math.  As I was working I heard someone making a 'pssst' sound to get my attention but I ignored them. This continued till someone threw a paper ball at me. “Hey! Don’t you dare ignore me!” I heard whoever was trying to get my attention whispered at me. I rolled my eyes and made a bubble shield around me and my desk and stayed in it till lunchtime. When lunch came I headed out of the classroom, but as I was leaving, two fillies walked next to me. “So you’re the new kid huh?” A bright pink filly with a purple mane and tail that had a white streak in it, she wore a bright yellow sundress that had four purple gems said to me. “Yes, I am the new kid.” I told her as I dug into my backpack. “Who are you?” “I am Diamond Tiara and this is Silver Spoon.” Diamond Tiara said, pointing at the filly next to her, Silver Spoon had a grey coat with her mane and tail being a lighter shade of grey, and she wore blue glasses and a purple short-sleeved shirt with pink skirt.  I nodded as I pulled out a lunchbox “Well it is nice to meet you, but just so you know, I don't like being hit with paper balls.” I told her then I stepped around her and walked over to the tables and found an empty one. “Well, maybe you should have answered me when I was trying to talk to you.” Diamond Tiara said. “It is rude you know.” I frowned and looked up at her. “Well sorry but I was focused on my work.” “Whatever, anyway, how about you hang with us?” Diamond said. “You’ll be hanging with a popular group.” “That depends on what type of popularity this group is, because if you're popular because you bully everyone around you, then no thanks. I'd rather get shattered than be a part of a group like that.” I told her and then opened in my lunchbox getting ready to eat a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. “Hmph, you’ll be sorry you said that. Come in Silver Spoon.” Diamond Tiara said, walking away, Silver Spoon following her, both had their noses up in the air. I shook my head. “I don't see why she is upset, I only said I don't want to be a part of a bullying group.”  I then take a bite out of my sandwich. “Ah don’t pay her no mind.” Applebloom said, sitting next to me. I looked over and smiled a bit. “Hello Applebloom, how are you?” I asked as I ate my sandwich. “I’m doing good.” She replied before asking. “What about you? How’s your first day?” “Surprisingly well so far, the math and science classes were easy, but the history and magic classes are a bit tricky.” I told her as I finished my sandwich.  “Yeah, I know what you mean. School isn’t exactly one of my favorites but I still gotta go to it.” She said as she ate her lunch. “Oh I don't mind school, it is annoying people like bullies that bug me.” I told her as I got out an apple and took a bite. “Yeah well, the only two around are Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, they like to pick on others for their own sick amusement.” Applebloom said with a frown. I shrugged and added. “I am used to bullies, not much they can do to me.” I smirked and gave her a pudding cup. “I am gonna practice with my magic. You can have my dessert.” “Yes!” Applebloom said, taking my pudding cup with joy, before she looked at me confused. “Wait, you can use magic?” I nodded and pulled Gwen’s spellbook out of my gem before I started reading it. “A bit, I'm just learning spells but I can make shields easily.” “Like you did in class? Miss Cheerilee wasn’t too happy about that.” Applebloom said, watching me. I shrugged and said. “Then she should stop other students from throwing paper balls. But yes, I can also make these.” I hold my hand up and make a hexagonal shield in front of me. “Whoa!” Applebloom said, looking at the shields with awe.  I smiled softly and chuckled. “I can also do this.” I made the hexagonal shield move to be a platform and stood on it and moved it up making me fly in a way. Some of the other students saw me and were staring at me in awe. Scootaloo flew up to me. “Dude I didn’t know you could fly!” I chuckled and hopped off the shield, slowly falling down to the ground. “Not so much flying as, falling with style.”  I said with a small smirk.  The students stared at me in shock as I landed on the ground. “Whoa.” Applebloom said. “That was awesome!” I shrugged and smiled. “It's not that big of a deal.” I rubbed the back of my head. “Are you kidding?! It is a big deal 'cause it’s awesome!” Scootaloo said.  “I suppose it can be seen as a big deal, but check this out.” I made a bubble shield around myself and then made it grow spikes.  “Awesome!” Scootaloo said.  “Yeah!” Applebloom said, nodding her head. I smiled then popped the bubble and then breathed in as I started to glow pink and rush around the whole playground within a few seconds. “ta-da!” They all started telling me how awesome that was and many other things. I chuckled and rubbed the back of my head. “Thanks, but enough of me showing off, you all should enjoy your lunch before-” I am cut off as the bell rings. “That...” I heard a few groans as they started to head back to class. I shook my head with a smile and headed back to class and calmly did my work for the rest of the day till the final bell rang and Cheerilee told me to stay after class. “Now Jake, do you know why I had you stay after class?” Cheerilee said.  “I'm not sure, but probably because I'm new or because my grade on the history work was bad.” I took a guess. “No, it’s because of that shield you made during class.” She replied, a stern look on her face. I blinked confused. “What about it?” I asked, honestly confused. “Well for one, you interrupted my class when you did that.” Cheerilee said as she crossed her arms.  “Oh I didn't know, I was focused on my work, I didn't want to be distracted by whoever threw this.” I pulled out the paper ball and gave it to her. She looked at and sighed as she held the bridge of her nose. “Who threw it?” “I don't know, I just know it came from behind me to the left. I don't give bullies or attention hogs what they want, I just ignore them hence why I put up a bubble shield.” I told her. “I see. I’ll find out who threw it, but you are not allowed to bring up any more bubble shields. Understand?” Cheerilee said.  “You mean in class right? Because I still need to practice my powers.” I told her. “Outside of school is fine, but not during class.” Cheerilee replied. “That is all, you can go.” “Ok, thank you Miss Cheerilee.” I said then grabbed my backpack and left. As I walked through the town I saw it was completely empty. “Ok, this is odd.” I then felt hands grab me and pull me from the street and into a dark building, I made bubble shields around my fists and the glow was enough to see Pinkie and Twilight. “Pinkie, Twilight?” “Shhhhh!” Pinkie said. “She’s here!”  “Who is here? And why are you two hiding in a dark room?” I ask, confused. “Um, not just them dear.” Rarity said from the dark room before Twilight made her horn glow more, revealing the rest of Mane 6 and Deoxys. I crossed my arms and let my shields fade. “That still doesn't answer my question of who you are hiding from.” “Her….” Pinkie said while she brought me to a window, outside was a single figure digging in the ground, of course I knew who it was, the cloak was a bit obvious. “You mean Zecora?” I asked, still confused as to why they were hiding. “Yes, they’re freaking out for no good reason.” Twilight said, shaking her head,  “No good reason?! Does protecting your kin count as no good reason?” Applejack asked, holding Applebloom close to her. “Why as soon as my little sister saw Zecora riding into town, she started shaking in her little horseshoes.” She said, shaking Applebloom. I shook my head and shrugged. “I don't see what the big deal is, she is one of my friends.” I said and then turned to leave. “One of your friends?! How can you be friends with her?! She’s sinister.” Rainbow said, then Fluttershy and Pinkie said she was mysterious and spooky. I just rolled my eyes. I looked back at them and tapped my foot upset. “And what exactly makes her so sinister, and spooky? I'll give you that she can be mysterious but that's a cool thing, not a bad thing.” “Jake, she lives in the Everfree! I know you and the other gems live there, but you live in the old castle! Where it is much safer.” Rarity said, then she fainted when she looked out the window, I looked and saw that Zecora had pulled her hood down. “And those stripes are ghastly!” I looked at her flatly and sighed. “Then I suppose I'm even worse not having any fur at all?” I asked her, then pointed at the window. “She is a Zebra, a genetic cousin of ponies, her fur pattern can't be helped the same way your fur pattern can't be helped.”  “But we haven’t seen her around these parts bef-” Applejack was interrupted by Twilight, “That’s because she came from a faraway land.” She said, shaking her head. “Can you believe this?” She asked me. “I know right? And I thought humans were bad, I mean Zecora even helped me learn what plants are safe to eat in the Everfree.” I told Twilight then I looked at Applejack. “And just so you know, she lives in the Everfree forest because it's full of rare plants that she uses for her herbal medicines, she is a herbalist.” “And how do you know that? For all you know that could be her cover so she can do her evil...stuff.” Pinkie said, getting in my face. “Oh, she’s so evil I even wrote a song about her!” “Oh for buck's sake, here we go.” Rainbow said, facepalming. “She’s an evil enchantress! She does evil dances!” Pinkie sang while dancing, I rolled my eyes just before Pinkie grabbed my face. “And if you look in her eye, she’ll put you in trances! Then what will she do? She’ll mix up an evil brew! Then she’ll gobble you up in a big tasty stew! Sooo...watch out!” I backed away from Pinkie and rubbed my face. “That is a catchy song. I'll give you that but completely...almost completely wrong. The only thing somewhat right about that song is that enchantress part, and it's not because she is evil, it is because of what she wears...or more like how little she wears.” I said, blushing lightly. “Thank you Jake, besides, what have you seen her do exactly that deems her evil?” Twilight said, then the rest of the Mane 6 began explaining what she does when she comes into Ponyville, with Twilight making sarcastic sounds. “And how is exactly any of this bad?” I shook my head and leaned on the wall. “I suppose I should stop coming to town then if that's how you treat beings that are similar to ponies. I shudder to think what you would do to me considering I'm not any kind of equine at all.” Everyone was shocked after I said that, and then they looked down sadly. “Sorry Jake, guess we were being a bit mean.” Applejack said. “Darn right you were.” I said, sighing. I looked around with a smirk not seeing Applebloom around anymore. “Well, I guess we better apologize to her.” Rarity said.  I nodded and said. “That would be a good idea, oh I should speak to her about those hunting lessons.” I said mostly to myself. “Hunting lessons?” Fluttershy asked. I nodded and showed my teeth. “I need meat to stay healthy, I can use a device to create artificial meat but it tastes weird. Something's off and I may have to have Peridot take a look at it but I don't want her to accidentally break it.” “O-oh, I see. A-and I understand.” Fluttershy said. “Most of my animal friends need meat in their diet as well, so I understand that you eat meat as well.” I nodded a bit then said. “Thanks, but don't worry I don't need it all the time and I only plan on hunting monsters that are….wild I suppose is the word I’m looking for.” Fluttershy nodded her head. “Hey! Where’s Applebloom?!” Applejack asked, looking around. I smirked softly and pointed out the open door. “Maybe she went out to be the only grown woman in town and be nice to Zecora.” I look over to Twilight. “No offense.” Before Twilight could say anything, Rainbow got in my face. “You mean to tell us you just watched her walk out?! And didn’t do anything?!” She shouted, nearly making my ears ring. I rubbed my ears trying to stop the ringing before I said. “First off, I did not see her leave. Second off, don't yell in my ears like that. And third, even if I did see her leave, she isn't my sister and Zecora isn't dangerous. Why would I stop her?” Rainbow growled as she glared at me. “We gotta get to Applebloom before something bad happens to her!” Pinkie said while holding her head in panic. “We have ta find ma sister!” Applejack yelled before running out of the building. Soon everyone ran after her including me and Twilight. “Twilight I have a bad feeling, I just hope ponies are better about this kind of thing than humans are.” I said as we ran. “I hope so too, 'cause frankly, this is ridiculous!” Twilight said, groaning as we ran to the Everfree. Soon I saw Applebloom and Zecora. I stopped before I stepped into a flower bed. “Hey, Zecora how are-” I was cut off by Applejack and Rainbow yelling at her as they kicked up the flower bed then Twilight pulled me close to her as they got more rowdy. I frowned as Zecora faded into some fog warning us about the flowers and I looked down at them. “You keep your creepy mumbo jumbo to yerself ya hear?!” Applejack shouted at Zecora, the others agreeing with her while me and Twilight looked at them angrily. “Beware, beware!” Zecora said, then disappeared. ’She does know how to make an exit.’ I thought to myself, just as Applejack started scolding Applbloom, I sighed and shook my head before bubbling one of the flowers before leaving the flower bed. “I'm going home, come get me if you decide to grow up.” I look up at Deoxys who is floating high above us. “You can do whatever you want.” “How did you know I was up here?” Deoxys asked as she flew close to me, “Also, why were they being so hostile to Zecora? Because they were being stupid?” I pointed at the ground. “First off, I saw your shadow when I looked at the flowers. Secondly yes, most of them think Zecora is evil because she lives in the forest.” I groaned and rubbed my face. “The only one that was using her brain was Twilight.” Deoxys nodded her head. “I see.” She said and we continued to walk or fly in Deoxys' case for a few minutes in silence until she spoke again. “Want me to beat some sense into them? Especially Rainbow?” “Is your answer to everything always violence?” I asked her. “Yes. Yes it is.” she replied. I tapped my chin and said. “Not this time, but I can understand why you think like that.” I looked at her as I walked. “You were originally made as a weapon, so you must have been programmed to think like one, but you are a crystal gem, so you are free to choose who you want to be.”  “I know Jake, I just like to fight really, but I am also planning on…..” Deoxys looked a bit embarrassed about what she was gonna say next. “Planning on what?” I asked her as we got closer to the castle. “Starting a bakery.” She whispered, but I barely heard it. I smiled and chuckled softly. “That sounds like a great idea, maybe you can check the town for a bakery that you can learn from.” I said with a smile as we crossed the bridge.  She smiled slightly. “T-thanks.” I smiled and gave her a thumbs-up. “No problem, I believe in letting you guys grow as people. Now, I need to see Peridot, but if you want after that we can spar.” I grinned softly. “Sure, that sounds like fun!” Deoxys said, flying away. “I’ll be in the library when you are ready to spar.” I chuckled and stepped into the lab, calling out. “Peridot, sorry about this but I need your help. Zecora, a friend of mine warned me about this flower but the ponies I was with pulled me into the flower bed so I was exposed, please check it out and see if it is dangerous.” I said holding up the bubbled flower. A small explosion was heard followed by smoke as Peridot came walking out of it, coughing as she did. “Does anyone...knock anymore?!” She asked, annoyed. “What’s...this I hear...about a flower?” I covered my nose with a hand and floated the bubbled flower to her. “A friend of mine gave me a warning about this flower but I was exposed. Would you mind checking to see if it's dangerous but do your best to keep it isolated, if it can affect gems I don't want you being affected.” “Alright, I’ll see what I can find out.” Peridot said, taking the flower. “Now please, if you wouldn’t mind, I need space in order to examine this flower, also I advise you keep your distance from others. In case this might be contagious.” I rubbed my chin and nodded. “Right good idea, I better go get Deoxys, she was over the flower bed too, though I'm not sure if she was exposed or not she was floating pretty high.” I waved at Peridot and rushed out of the lab as soon as I was out I bubbled myself.  I ran down the hallway and called out. “Deoxys, stay away from everyone till Peridot says otherwise!”  She poked her head out of the library as she looked at me. “How come?” She asked me I stopped near her and sighed. “Those flowers that me and the ponies were around could be dangerous and you were floating over the flower bed so the pollen could've gotten on you while they were kicking it up. I'm already sure that I'm covered in pollen which is why I bubbled myself. I have Peridot looking into the flower now but for now, isolate yourself if possible.” Deoxys nodded her head and proceeded to leave the castle. “I’ll head somewhere where I know the pollen won’t get on anyone else.” She said. I frowned and followed. “How will we be able to find you once Peridot finds out if it's safe?”  “I’ll know when it’s safe for me to come back.” That was all Deoxys said as she flew out a window. I sighed and rubbed my face. “Damn, well better go tell the others.” I spend a few minutes looking for everyone but just find Ship and Pearl. “Hey, I am glad I found you two.” “Jake? Why are you in a bubble?” Pearl asked me, Ship just tilted his head in confusion. “I got exposed to a flower that could possibly be dangerous. I have Peridot running some tests on it now and I'm isolating myself so I don't infect any of you guys.” I then remember something and ask. “Pearl, do you still have your phone? If you do please have Ship link with it so he can make it so we can call each other. I am sure he doesn't want to be our messenger forever.”  Pearl nodded her head. “I do, and I hope Peridot will find something about the flower soon.” Pearl said as she pulled her phone out of her gem.  “Me too, Twilight and her friends were also covered by the pollen, possibly Deoxys too.” I told her and shook my head then sighed. “Would you mind using the replicator to make me some pillows and a blanket? I'll be sleeping outside the temple just in case.” Pearl nodded her head. “Sure, just let me find the darn thing first, Amethyst took it not that long ago for who knows what.” Pearl said while rubbing her forehead.  “Ship ship.” Ship said sadly, pawing at the bubble shield. I shook my head. “Knowing her she is just making mountains of food.” I looked down at Ship and smiled sadly. “Sorry buddy but I can't risk getting you sick, you can stay near me but outside the bubble alright?” “Ship.” Ship said, nodding. I smiled softly and sat down in my bubble. “So Ship, have you been having fun?” Ship nodded his head happily. “Ship ship!” He said hopping up and down. I chuckled and smiled. “That's good, how do you like gem tech? It must be new to you right?” Ship nodded his head again, changing into a Limb Enhancer and then into a Flask Robonoid. “Ship ship!” He said happily. I smirked and asked. “Think you could give the blueprints for the replicator to Peridot, with a message to work with Twilight to make one the ponies can copy.” “Ship ship!” Ship replied, nodding his head. “Thank you Ship, hmmm maybe you could upgrade Peridot's limb enhancers to make phone calls, that way we can call her whenever we need to.” I said as I laid down. Ship nodded his head just as Pearl came back with the Replicator. “Hey Pearl, thanks for getting that, I will most likely make a bigger bubble around it and then pop the first...if I can do that.”  I said scratching my cheek. “Well, you never know until you try.” Pearl said, smiling. I nodded and held my arms out while closing my eyes and focusing. Soon a second bobble appears around the one I am already in. “Ha! I did it, now to just.” I popped the first bubble and pulled the replicator towards me. “Thank you Pearl.” “No problem Jake, though I wonder how long you are going to be in there.” She said, sitting down. “Well, how about you check Rick's notes, maybe this is an ‘episode’, just look up when Zecora comes to Ponyville.” I said as I took my phone out and sent her copies of the notes. She nodded her head as she pulled out her phone and began to look through the notes, after a few minutes she began to speak. “I found the information, and you are right, we are currently in an ‘episode,’ Bridle Gossip, basically this is the first time Zecora made her appearance in the show, and those blue flowers are called Poison Joke.” Pearl said with a small frown. I raised an eyebrow. “Poison joke? Geez sounds like something a prankster would name. What does it do?” I asked Pearl as I started making pillows with the replicator.  “Well, see for yourself.” Pearl said, showing me pictures of the Mane 6 with some interesting new features, Twilight's horn had dark blue dots on it and was limp. Applejack was tiny, Rainbow kept crashing into stuff, Rarity had a bad hair day, and so on. I tried not to laugh but I snickered. “I shouldn't laugh but that is just too funny.” I shook my head. “So who knows what it will do to me, and we don't know if it will affect Gems, hmmm after Lapis and Bismuth appear I think I should show all the main Crystal Gems, the Steven Universe TV show, movie, and final season.” I looked at her to see her reaction.  Her eye twitched a bit, but she seemed otherwise calm. “Yes, well I would be lying if I said I wasn’t curious about those things as well.” She said, looking over the notes again.  I smiled softly. “Just keep in mind the show was made for a young audience, so there might be some differences between your memories and what happens in the show, not only that but it was focused on Steven's experiences. so it won't show things that he wasn't around for.” “I see. Well, thank you for telling me.” Pearl said. I nodded and said. “I’m gonna get some sleep, can you show Peridot the notes on this point in time. It could help her find what she is looking for.” I laid down and sighed.  “I will.” She replied, standing up, “Come on Ship, let’s let Jake sleep.” “Ship ship.” Ship said sadly, not moving. “He can stay, he is worried about me, plus he can call you if something happens.” I said with a smile. “Ship ship! Ship ship!” Ship said happily while bouncing up and down. I chuckled and shook my head before I closed my eyes. Location:unknown. 3rd POV In a dark room that is lit only by a single light source in the center, there are five ponies sitting at a table. Each hid their faces and changed their voices. One of these mysterious ponies pushes an envelope to the center of the table. Once it is flipped open with blue magic reveals a picture of Jake, along with a close-up of his Omnitrix. “As you all may know this….child….wears a very powerful item, an item that shouldn’t belong in his hands.” The mystery pony said causing the others to agree in anger. “This device, what can it do exactly?” A second voice asked. “It can make one turn into these.” The first voice said, placing pictures of Jake in his different alien forms. “This device lets one turn into these monsters, this one here is strong enough to fight a dragon.” They said, showing the picture of Humungousaur.  “Fascinating, how could such a power tool be in the hands of a child? How shall we retrieve it for the crown?” A third voice said. “It will be simple my friends, we just pry it off his wrist, by any means necessary.” The first voice said. All the ponies laughed as if they had already won then the second voice said. “What of the boy’s guardians? I hear he is growing an army.” “We won’t have to worry about them, we’ll have the device before they can even do anything, but I do have a minor backup plan for when they do try to stop us from getting the device.” The first voice said. “And what of the false ones? Do you have a plan for if they get involved?” The fourth voice called out. “Yes, if they get involved then we could be exposed before the true one can take their place.” The fifth voice said.  “Indeed, so we’ll have to get that device before that happens then.” The first voice said. “Very well, then I vote we capture the boy and take the device.” The second voice said. “I vote to sow the seeds of distrust among the nobles and the commoners alike so they will turn on him making it easier for us to ‘arrest’ him and ‘confiscate’ the device.” The third voice said. “All in favor?” The first voice asked the others, receiving a chorus of ‘ayes,’ they nodded their head. “Good, soon that device will no longer be in the hands of a mere child.” There are chuckles then the light goes out. Jake’s POV I am woken up by Ship making a loud siren-like sound. “Gah!” I sit up and pant looking around feeling strange.  “Ship ship!” Ship said, bouncing up and down to get my attention. I look down at Ship. “What's wrong Sh…” I grab my throat. “My voice, what’s wrong with me?” Ship bounced up and down again, morphing into the communicator that lets me call Rick, but instead of calling him, it instead flashed, blinding me. “Gah!” I cover my eyes. “Why did you do that?” I ask Ship in a feminine voice. “Ship!” He replied, a holographic screen popping up and I froze, cause the image was that of Rose Quartz. I blush and look down at myself and see the signature dress and body shape of Rose Quartz. “Oh, you have got to be kidding me…” I sigh and rub my face. “Ship please call Pearl and tell her that the poison Joke has taken effect and to brace herself.” “Ship ship!” Ship said, changing back. “Ship ship.” He said, looking at me curiously, his nub-like paws on the bubble shield. I sigh and put my hand on the bubble on my side. “It is still me, Ship, please do what I asked.” Ship tilted his head and then nodded his head. “Ship ship.” He said, a beep coming from him which probably meant he just sent the message to Pearl. “Ship ship.” “Thank you Ship.” I said and then sighed as I leaned on the bubble. “Ship ship.” He said, pawing at the bubble, most likely trying to get to me. “Ship ship!” I tilt my head. “What are you trying to do? Try texting me what you want.” “Ship.” He said, another beep came from him and then from my phone. I read the message and sighed. “Thank you Ship but I will not risk you getting infected like I was.” I smile and run my hand on the bubble’s wall where Ship is. “I'm sure there will be a fix for this soon.” “Ship.” Ship said sadly, just as Pearl walked into the room. “Jake, I got a message from Ship saying…...that……” She froze when she saw me, going wide-eyed. I sigh and look down. “Yeah… I'm still Jake, damn you must be going through hell.”  Pearl stuttered a bit before she managed to say. “I think I need to s-sit down.” She then fainted, just when Garnet walked into the room. “Jake I saw Pearl head in this…….” She stopped talking when she saw me, and then looked at the unconscious Pearl, who was being poked by Ship. “Gernet, I am Jake, to make a long story short I'm under the effects of something called Poison Joke, please get Peridot.” I said slowly hoping I didn’t confuse her enough that she splits. “Ok.” She said, walking away to get Peridot. I sigh slightly relieved I didn't split her. I then look at Ship still poking Pearl. “You having fun Ship?” “Ship!” He replied, still poking Pearl, this time with a stick, well twig, he got from nowhere. I start to laugh a bit, almost a giggle but then I cover my mouth and groan. “Ship, can you access Peridot’s data?” "Ship ship.” Ship said, turning into a Limb Enhancer and a screen popped up. Then a few words started to appear, ‘What do you want to know?’ “Check to see if you can be affected by poison Joke, if you aren't affected then you can be my hazmat suit. if that's ok with you.” I told him and looked down the hallway. After a few minutes, words began to form on the screen again. ‘I cannot be affected by Poison Joke, nor can anyone be affected after it has already affected someone.’ it said, ‘No one else is at risk of getting infected with Poison Joke pollen.’ “Well that's good, thank you Ship.” I say as I try to pop the bubble but it just wobbles. “Huh?” I tried again but it didn't pop. “Um...Ship, I need A gem unless you can pop this bubble.” “Ship.” He said, changing into a mech, and tried to pop the bubble, he used drills, swords, lasers, hell, he even had missiles aimed at the bubble, but bubble shields have survived harpoon guns, so…..I better stop him before he destroys the castle. “Whoa Ship! Maybe don’t blow up the castle?” I said to him, he tilted his head before he changed back and moved over to me, holding the same twig he used to poke Pearl with. “Well, looks like-” He poked the bubble shield and it made a small pop sound and it was gone. “Ship ship!” Ship said happily, waving his twig around. I start laughing and pet Ship. “Good job to you and your stick of destruction.” “Ship ship!” Ship said happily. I pet Ship’s head. “Alright, you can either stick with me or keep poking poor Pearl.” I said with a chuckle.  Ship looked between Pearl and me, thinking of who he should stick with, and then he hopped over to me. “Ship ship!” I smile and pick him up before taking a few steps, tripping over the dress I'm in, and groan. “Damn dress.” I set Ship on my shoulder and lifted the dress enough that I wouldn't trip on it and start walking.  After a few minutes of walking, I eventually ran into Peridot and Garnet, Peridot staring at me wide-eyed. I sigh and shake my head. “I am Jake, the poison joke affected me.” I move some pink hair out of my face.  “I-I know, it’s just that this is the first time I’m seeing Rose Quartz if it is still you.” Peridot said, shaking her head, “Anyway, why aren’t you in your bubble?” “Ship access your notes and according to your notes after I've been affected I can't spread the affliction, only the pollen can.” I said then I shook my head. “Did you find a cure?” “Uh, no. Unfortunately, I have not found a cure for this Poison Joke.” Peridot said, frowning. “I work with machines, not plants. So I have no idea how to fix this. Or this.” Peridot pointed her thumb behind her, and Garnet carried in Deoxys, except her arms and legs were really long and floppy, including her neck.  “Hi.” She said. “Oh wow, that is unexpected. Then I suggest we go find Twilight and the others. In your opinion, do you think the warp pads would still work for us in this condition?” I ask Peridot. “Well that is a possibility, but just to be safe, let’s have one of the unaffected Gems go with you, I still need to learn more about this plant. So I’m sorry to say I cannot accompany you.” Peridot said. “I understand Peridot, if the Ponies have anything on this plant I'll be sure to give you the notes.” I told her then I looked at Garnet. “Think you can help us get to town?” “Sure, I needed to get out of the castle anyway.” Garnet said, smirking. “And I doubt you would be able to carry Deoxys while making sure you don’t trip.” I frown and roll my eyes. “Yeah yeah, laugh it up, Garnet.” I shake my head and head for the warp pad then stop and look at Peridot. “Oh, and Pearl fainted.” “Why am I not surprised.” Peridot said, rolling her eyes. “I’ll be sure to put her on a bed until she wakes up. You just get to the ponies and find out more about this plant.” “Right, good luck Peridot.” I then follow Garnet to the warp pad. “Jake, don’t you think we should visit Zecora for this? She does know a lot about the forest, plus she did warn you about Poison Joke.” Garnet said to me. I rub my chin and then nod. “Yes, let's go see her.”  “Good decision.” Garnet said as we exited the castle. “We really need to set up a Warp Pad near her place.” I think about it. “I guess it might work, I mean you guys had a warp pad just outside the temple in the palm of the temple’s outer statue.”  Garnet nods as we walk into the forest. “Yes, perhaps you should ask her after she fixes you.”  “Yeah, good idea.” I said, nodding my head. “You seem to be much calmer about this than Pearl.” Garnet smiles. “Yes well, I have been able to see a few minutes into the future now, and saw this coming.”  I nodded my head. “I see, guess it was a bit of a shock when you saw it huh?” I ask her, “Yes it was, but I was able to see the conversation between you and Peridot, so I knew that there would be a cure.” She said as we started coming up to Zecora’s tree hut. “Ship ship!” Ship said, hopping over to Zecora’s hut and pawing at her door. “Ship calm down, you’ll get to see her.” Deocxys said, trying to grab the Galvanic Mechamorph, but only managed to make her arm flop around, kinda like a fish out of water. I walk up to the door and knock. “Deoxys is right, we can wait a few moments.” Then the door opens to show Appleboom. She looks up at me and blinks confused. “Who are y’all?” She asked us while hiding behind the door. “We are friends of Zecora, who are you?” Garnet asked her. “Or better yet, is Zecora home?” “Your friends of hers?” Applebloom asked surprised then opened the door all the way and I saw Zecora working on something in the large pot. She looked over at us. “Ah, the Crystal Gems, what brings you here?” She asked as we went inside. “And who is this? A friend of yours?” She asked looking at me. I blush and look down. “I am Jake miss Zecora, I got exposed to a Poison Joke.” “Ah, yes, how unfortunate that you were exposed to such a thing, but I must ask. Why didn’t you come to me sooner rather than later? You heard my warning did you not?” She asked as she walked over to her pot. I shrug and say. “I didn't understand the warning fully, I asked Peridot to study the flower and I took a nap. Next thing I know I'm like this.” “I see, but still, you should have come to me if you were confused about my warning. But the past is in the past, you came here for the cure yes?” She said, and I could tell she already knew the answer. “Because I nearly have it ready thanks to Applebloom’s help.” “That's great because I don't want to be like this for much longer.” I told her. “We just need one more ingredient and young Applebloom will retrieve it for us.” Zecora said. “Sure thing Zecora!” Applebloom said happily, then walked out of the hut. I chuckle as I watch her leave. “Sorry about the ponies Zecroa, I was trying to talk to them about how they were treating you.” “I thank you for that, it has been quite annoying how they treated me, did you know the pink one wrote a song about me?” She said, rolling her eyes. “It is ridiculous, I can’t put anyone under a trance when they look in my eyes, nor do I dance, and I am certainly not evil.” “Oh I know, she sang it, and the only thing remotely true is the enchantress thing, and that's only on single boys.” I said with a soft smirk aimed at her. Zecora blushes. “Have you looked in the mirror lately?” She asked with a smirk of her own. “Cause I’m pretty sure you’ll get more attention than me.” I groan and cover my face. “Zecora, I know you didn't know but this is the form of the original owner of the gem in my belly. She gave up her body to give birth to her son.”  “Oh, sorry. I didn’t know.” She said.  “It is fine, I know you didn't know.” I wave it off then lean on the wall and sigh. “So how does this cure work?” “It is like a bath, you just soak until the effects of the Poison Joke disappear.” Zecora said. “Huh, that is interesting, mind writing down the recipe?” I ask her. I then notice Garnet move away from the door. “Of course-” Zecora was interrupted when the mane 6 barged in, still under the effects of Poison Joke. “What the hell?!” I said as I straightened up and they started yelling and destroying stuff.  “What in the world is wrong with you all!?” I try to make a bubble shield but it doesn't work. “Where is Applebloom?!” Applejack-I mean Appleteeny shouted to Zecora. “Y’all better tell right now!” I stomp up to Zecora, grab Appleteeny off of her head, and glare at her. “Applebloom is fine, but because of you and your friends the cure for the poison Joke got destroyed along with a lot of Zecora's belongings!” “Actually, that wasn’t the cure Jake.” Zecora said, frowning at the pot. “That was just some soup I was making while the cure was being made.” That’s when Applebloom came back. “Alright Zecora, I got what you….” She saw the mane 6 and the destroyed hut.  I nod to Zecora then give Appleteeny to one of her friends and cross my arms. “I believe you all should apologize to someone.” I said to the mane six. “Sorry Zecora. Guess when we saw what happened to us, we kinda jumped to conclusions, even me.” Twilight said. “It is fine young pony, we all must make mistakes to grow.” Zecora said as she started to gather things. “But I’m afraid I am unable to finish the cure as I am missing an important ingredient that can only be found within Ponyville, but every time I go to town all the shops are mysteriously closed.” “Well, we can help with that, consider it a part of our apology.” Rarity said.  Pinkie tried to say something but all that came out was spit and mumbles, gross. I groaned and leaned on the wall. “So I’m going to be stuck like this longer?” “And how exactly have you been like that? We’ve been like this all day!” Rainbow said, flying upside down.  I cross my arms and frown. “I took a nap and woke up like this.”  “So we kinda had to deal with this a lot longer than you.” Rainbow said, crossing her arms before she suddenly crashed into the floor and then the ceiling. Her upper body sticking out of the roof. “Ow.” I snort softly. “Maybe, but at least none of you are gender-swapped. At least as far as I can tell none of you are male.” I smirk then add. “Well maybe Rainbow was a boy before and now she is a girl.” The girls all looked at Fluttershy, and she nervously said. “It’s only my voice that got swapped.” She said in a guy's voice. I shrug and say. “Still better than having everything change, especially if you're changing to your parent.” I then hold up a hand and try to use any magic and frown. “Not only that but all my gem powers and magic are gone.” “That’s horrible!” Aplebloom said. “You have awesome powers! Now they’re gone!” “By the way, weren’t you in a bubble earlier? How exactly did you get out if your powers were gone?” Garnet asked me. I look to Applebloom first. “I don't think they're gone permanently just until I'm cured.” Then I look at Garnet. “Believe it or not, Ship poked it with a stick and the bubble popped. I nicknamed the stick of destruction.” “Ship! Ship!” Ship said, waving said stick in the air. “Ship!” I chuckle and pet Ship. “And that's the stick. So let's get to Ponyville so we can all get cured.” They all nodded and walked out of the hut, Zecora grabbing her cloak and putting it on and we proceeded to walk to Ponyville, after an hour of walking, getting the twins who own the spa to calm down and help us, we eventually were relaxing in a spa bath, the cure having washed away the effects of the Poison Joke. I come up for air after jumping in and look around seeing myself in a mirror, I see I’m back to looking like Steven. “Thank goodness I'm back to normal.” I said then get out of the water. “Yep, no more Appleteeny, just regular ol’ Applejack.” Applejack said, getting a bucket that she had to use when she was small off her foot. I blush lightly and turn away from the girls as they are in bikinis. “Well, as fun as this has been I should get back to the temple after Deoxys is fixed.”  “Which we can do.” Deoxys said, flying over to me, no longer affected by Poison Joke, she did a few spins in the air. “So good to fly normally again.” “I bet, let’s head back. See you ladies later.” I wave and leave the spa. “So, what are we going to do when we get back to the temple? We are still going to spar right?” Deoxys asked me as we walked through Ponyville. I rub my chin and nod. “Yeah, I think I'll ask Peridot to get the robonoid ready and while she is doing that we can have that match, what do you think Garnet?” I ask. “Hmmm.” She said, most likely thinking. “Actually, we should head to Manehattan, something is happening there but I don’t know what. It’ll also give us a chance to set up a Warp Pad there as well.” “Oh? Well alright, I’m sure I can have that match with you after Deoxys.”  I said then smirked as I started running. “Last one to the temple has to interrupt Peridot's work!” Deoxys immediately flies past me with Garnet hanging onto her. “Bye Jake.” The two said, before speeding away. I stare after them, forgetting that Deoxys' Speed Forme is much faster. I frown and smirk as I start glowing pink and run faster and catch up staying ahead of them just barely. “Nice try!”  Deoxys smirked as she went faster, the three of us trying to get past the other, I could see the castle in the distance and also saw that I was gonna be the first one to reach it. “Ship now!” Deoxys said. “Ship!” Ship said, forming a jetpack on Deoxys' back, letting her, Garnet, and Ship beat me to the castle. My eyes widen and I groan. “Ship you traitor!” I yell as they rush off.  Once I reached the castle, I saw two Gems smirking at me while a Galvanic Mechamorph bounced up and down happily. “Ship ship!” He said. I skid to a stop and frown. “Traitor.” I say to Ship then shake my head. “I guess I lost.” “Yep, now you have to interrupt Peridot from her work!” Deoxys said. “Yeah yeah, I know. I’ll handle it, and while I do, get any other gems that want to go.” I said then head to the lab and remember to knock on the door. “Come in.” I heard Peridot say and I entered the lab. “Glad to see someone is listening when I say to knock first. What do you need Jake?” She asked me, still studying the Poison Joke flower, but it looked like she got more. “Well first off, be careful with those flowers. Deoxys was exposed and she became all floppy and long but we managed to cure her and myself here are the notes.” I give her the paper. “Secondly, I came to ask if the robonoid is ready to make another warp pad.” Peridot nodded her head. “It’s always ready to make Warp Pads, where are you planning on making one this time?” She asked me, looking over the notes. “Manehatten, Garnet saw we needed to go there.” I said and looked around before finding it and picking it up. “Oh when you get a chance maybe make some of these things with a laser, I am hoping to bring one to school for show and tell.” I chuckle. “Why would you need a Robonoid with a laser? Better yet, why bring a Robonoid that could have a laser to school?” Peridot asked me. “First, they could be used for security and have three settings, stun, capture, and kill. Secondly, I would basically show off your cool tech and maybe get us some investors. There are at least two kids that seem to be rich, if they tell their family maybe they will want to give us money so we can mass-produce them.” I told her with a smirk. Peridot held her chin in thought before she nodded her head. “Very well, we could use the money, can’t rely on the Replicator forever, eventually it will break.” She said. “True, hopefully you and Twilight can find a way to copy it.” I said then waved at her. “Good luck with your work.” I leave the lab and find the warp pad.  Waiting for me were Garnet, Deoxys, Ship, and Amethyst. “Hello Jake.” Garnet said. “Ready to go?” “Yeah, give me a few minutes and I'll have the new warp pad set up, Garnet which way is Manehatten?” I ask as I activate the Omnitrix and turn the dial to XLR8. “It is exactly a long way from here, we’ll need Ship to take us there, otherwise you’ll time out before you’re even a quarter of the way there.” She said.  I sigh and turn the Omnitrix off. “Damn, alright Ship it is.” I pet him and then smirk. “Just be careful with your stick of destruction.”  “Ship ship!” Ship said, waving said stick in the air, before a small gust of wind knocked it out of his nub-like paw and into the forest, he sat there for a few seconds, staring at his empty paw, and then his face turned into a sad emoji face. I chuckle and pet Ship's head. “Don't worry buddy I'm sure you can find a better one.”  “Ship.” He said, still having the sad emoji face.  I pick him up and hug him. “Aww poor guy, tell you what I’ll help you find a new toy to play with after we get back, how does that sound?” Ship nodded his head. “Ship ship!” He said. “Alright, now how about giving us a lift to Manehattan?” I ask him as I set him down. Ship nodded his head before jumping into the air and turning into his ship form. “Ship!” “Alright everyone, let’s get on board then we can get going.” I walk into Ship and take my seat. After everyone boarded Ship, he closed the hatch and took off into the air, and after a few hours of flying to Manehattan, Ship spoke in a panicked tone. “Ship!”  “What's wrong, Ship?” I ask as I sit up. “Ship! Ship!” He said, forming a window for us to look outside, when we did, we saw a huge tower of water near Manehattan. I blink in shock then say slowly. “Well, either this world has creatures that can control the water, or we found Lapis.” I then looked at Garnet. “This what you saw?” “Yes, though I have no idea if it is Lapis.” Garnet said, looking at the tower of water. “But it does look like her work.” “Well, I'm sure Peridot will be happy to have her friend back.” I said as Ship moved in for a landing.