> My Little Kombat: Friendship is Fatal > by TheOGBrony > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > A Simple Miscalculation > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- My little kombat friendship is fatal As Shao Kahn fell once again defeated by his coward of a brother and his pitiful forces of light, he could not help but unleash a roar of anger. "It's over Shao Kahn you've lost surrender now, and maybe the elder gods will have mercy on you." Raiden taunted The Out-world tyrant scanned the battle scarred waste, noting the blood, weapons, and assorted injured or lifeless bodies of both sides combatants. "No! No! It is far from over, I will have Earth realm." With this the enraged emperor shot a blinding sphere of green energy into the sky surprising and blinding his enemies. As he stood arm covering his eyes, Raiden sensed the opening of a portal, "Quickly Shao Kahns forces have opened a portal, we must stop them." With this Raiden and any of his remaining allies charged toward their Retreating enemies. As they grew closer Raiden quickly realized they would not out pace the forces of Out-world. So in an act of hope and desperation he launched a large blast of electric energy toward the portal. As the Out-world forces approached only a few yards away, the blast of energy struck Shang Tsung who had been maintaining the portal, this disrupted the portal, causing it to become unstable and quickly expand engulfing the nearby area including the now prone shape-shifter and it was still expanding. "What have you done? You've destabilized the portal, now we're all doomed you FOOOooolll!!!!" Quan Chi raved as he was also devoured by the expanding energy. "What the...This is bad," Jax judged as he quickly turned to Raiden for ideas. However before Raiden could respond, the portal started inhaling even more combatants both good and evil alike. Many tried to out maneuver the rift, but it was now accelerating far to quickly. "Well brother it seems you have finally won. Though at what cost, and to think you call me the monster. Now you kill us all, Good bye brother, i will see you in the Nether." Shao Kahn jived as the field reached and absorbed him as well. Raiden listened to the cries of horror and anger of those consumed. As it encroaches toward him. Instead of running the guardian of earth realm merely broadened his stance and readied himself for what was to come. "If i am to be destroyed, I will face the maw of the beast and stand ready for my judgement." He preached as the field of magic engulfed him and he was met with a blinding light. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ It was early in the morning, and everypony in Ponyville was still sound asleep, when the thunderous roar awoke one non to happy unicorn. "Uuuugggg!!!...what in the name of Celestia is that noise?" Twilight moaned as she slowly rose from her bed, still tired and quite annoyed at the racket. Beats me, but whatever it is can't it wait till later? added an even more annoyed baby dragon. "Apparently not, and i for one am not going to just sit here and let some delinquent keep me up with their noise." Twilight huffed as she headed for the door, but as she approached the noise abruptly stopped. this however did not stop the thoroughly agitated unicorn, for she continued through the door and around back, where the prior noise had been coming from. However as she rounded the bend she came across something she hadn't expected for there was a large crater directly behind her house. In the middle of said crater were three very strange looking ponies lying face down apparently unconscious. What was even more astounding was that one of them was not just a pony but an alicorn. "Holy Faust an alicorn? This...this...is....is incredible." twilight stammered completely overwhelmed by the sight in front of her. As she drew closer to the crater she saw that the alicorn in question was beginning to stir. This only excited the now calm unicorn, She quickly trotted to the strangely garbed alicorn and got a good look at it. He wore a long white cloak, a blue and white vest, as well as adorning a large conical hat. His mane was a shining Silver and his coat a silky white. As she gazed over the alicorn his eyes flickered open startling the mare and causing her to take a few steps back, His eyes were A bright electric blue and as his gaze focused on the mare, he managed to whisper one simple question "Am i dead?" before slipping back into unconsciousness. Twilight was left baffled at the Stallions question and unable to think of what would be the wisest course of action she sat back on her haunches and waited for one of the three sleeping ponies to awake and explain themselves. After waiting for about ten minutes or so she heard Spike call for her. "Hey Twi you okay?" "Yeah, Spike i'm over here." She called back not moving from her spot. Spike quickly followed the voice and walked up to Twilight, "So any reason your just standing-" Spike choked on the rest of the sentence when he saw the crater and those lying inside it. "Is that a...a alicorn?" "Yes, yes it is Spike." "But...but who is he? and how did he get here? and why is he laying in a crater behind the library? and hrrrfff" He was cut off as Twilight stuck a hoof in his mouth to quite him down. "I don't know Spike, and we won't know until he or one of his companions regains consciousness." With that spike took a seat and let out a hefty sigh. After another thirty or so minutes of waiting Spike let out another sigh this time one of boredom. "Okay not that sitting here watching a bunch of ponies isn't fun and all but i'm starting to get hungry. So lets go back inside and grab some breakfast. I mean it's not like their going anywhere." "Spike we can't just leave them here alone what if they wake up we'll need to be here to help them." Twilight retorted. "Come on Twilight, it's not like were going that far, i'm sure if they wake up we'll hear them."" Spike stated matter-of-factly. "Well i guess a quick breakfast would be okay." Twilight said submissively. But as they turned to go back inside they heard a small moan from one of the ponies that were in the crater. They quickly retraced their steps to see the prone trio were starting to rise. "Lord Raiden, where are we, and what are we?" a light red earth pony asked as he stumbled to his feet. "i do not know Liu Kang, but i fear we are no longer in Earth-realm." Raiden answered. "Ha, Ya think? I mean look at us, where ever we are i hope the others are okay." A dark brown colt who had what looked like metal forelegs pointed out. "Agreed Jax, but for now we must find out where we are, and if Shao Kahn is also here." Raiden thought aloud. "As for why we have taken these forms I assume it is merely an effect of the realm we have been sucked into. I assume that once we return home we will take our regular forms once again." "I hope your right." Jax said unconvinced. "Uh-Huh...Maybe i can help?" Twilight interrupted them causing them to all turn to face her. "As for Where you are, Your in Equestria, specifically just outside of Ponyville." "I see, I am lord Raiden God of thunder and guardian of Earth-Realm and these are my friends Liu Kang and Jax. Who might you be my young mare? "I am Twilight Sparkle Faithful student of princess Celestia. it's a pleasure to meet you lord Raiden, but may i ask how exactly did you end up in a crater behind my Library?" Twilight questioned. "That's a long story, miss Twilight." Liu Kang responded. "Well i have time." Twilight said happily. "Very well, it all started when..." Raiden began. > A Melting Pot of Friendship > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "That is how we came to be here. So our only goal now is to search for any others who were brought here as well." Raiden summed up, finally after explaining how they landed in Equestria.  "I see, your world sounds like a very difficult place to call home." "Hey, it's not that bad, i mean if we didn't fight then Shao Kahn wins."Jax retorted. "No, i didn't mean it like that, it's just compared to Equestria Earth and Out-World sound dangerous. I promise however I meant no disrespect." Twilight stuttered apologetically. "Do not worry miss Twilight, we know you meant nothing by it. I actually agree with you, but though our world maybe rittled with conflict it is still a world worth fighting for." Liu Kang reassured.  "We should start our search so that any of Shao Kahns forces who may have landed here do not have time to damage yet another world." Raiden conveyed worry and determination emanating from his very being. "Right, and if you want my friends would most likely be more then willing to assist you, as long as you don't mind." Twilight suggested happily. "i don't know if that's such a good idea. I wouldn't want to put any civilians at risk." Jax interjected, making Twilight snort in protest. "Though normally I would agree with you Jax, we do not know this world and having a group that did would be invaluable," Raiden parried giving Twilight a gentle smile, which she noticed was very similar to the ones her teacher Celestia often used. "So miss Twilight lead the way." With the early morning sun shining in the sky, they followed Twilight on a direct course for Sweet Apple Acres.  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Meanwhile, on the other side of town, in a cottage on the edge of the Everfree, a butter yellow Pegasus was just waking to start the day.  She lets out a soft yawn as she rose from bed a sleepy smile gracing her face. As she got out of bed she was almost instantly met with the sight of a very displeased looking bunny, who was currently thumping his foot in irritation.  "What's the matter Angel?" Fluttershy cooed trying to sooth the disgruntled rabbit. The rabbit however was having none of it, and instead merely ran out the front door and looking back to insist on the Pegasus to follow.  Seeing the rabbit exit the cottage she followed a worried look on her face. "i wonder what has Angel bunny so upset this early in the morning?" she wondered to herself. Her thoughts however were interrupted when she heard a loud yell.  "WHAT FORM OF SORCERY IS THIS?!!!"  a very disgruntled arachnid based ninja yelled. Taking a good look at his new equine body. Quickly searching the nearby area he noticed a very familiar blue garbed colt who lay only a few meters away.  As he approached the colt he shifted its position and still facing the other direction slowly stumbled to a sitting position.  "SUB-ZERO!!! What is the meaning of this illusion." Scorpion raved slowly approaching the still discombobulated Lin Qui. With no warning the yellow clad colt swiped at his adversary sending him sprawling. "Release this illusion and FACE ME! Sub-Zero, or die a coward." Sub-zero who had finally regained his wits could only stare at his long since foe, but he could not comprehend why or how Scorpion was now some sort of horse. To top of this corundum he too appeared to have taken on a similar form. Sub-zero quickly rose, while Scorpion watched carefully anticipating any and everything. "Scorpion i swear to you i know not why we appear to be some sort of Equines, but it was not i who did this." he pleaded with his enraged opponent. "You lie, if not you then who? take a look around we are alone There is no alternate." Scorpion motioned to the surrounding area. "Think back to the last battle though, what about the portal, perhaps when it was distorted it caused our forms to change?" the cold colt coolly reassured. "A likely scapegoat, no more lies now FIGHT!!!" With this the vengeful shinobi leapt at his enemy and before Sub-Zero could mount a defense he was bombarded with a hoof colliding with his jaw causing him to stagger back several steps in pain. This was quickly followed up by several more hefty strikes leaving the Lin Qui laying on his back gasping in pan. "Now, i'll destroy your petty illusion by finally FINISHING YOU." Scorpion bellowed as he trotted over to the prone Sub-Zero. "i tell you this is not me." Sub-Zero groaned through the pain. "Enough, this is the end." the yellow colt swore as he prepared to curb stomp his enemies skull into dust. A certain yellow pegasus who had been watching the two from the safety of a nearby tree could not take it anymore. Without thinking she burst out from her hiding spot. "STOOOOPPP," Fluttershy cried. Both the colts turned and gawked at the new arrival. "Please," she continued, "stop fighting, i don't know why you are mad at each other but hitting each other isn't going to make it better." she Said nearly in tears. To the surprise of the others Scorpion lowered his hoof and started toward the new pony. Once he was only a foot or so away he stopped and glaring at her asked her a simple question, "Why should i stop? Who are you too challenge me? I know not where i am, but what gives to the right to command me? as he questioned he once again started toward her. Terrified the mare started slowly backing away, but the angry colt matched her step for step while still glaring daggers at her. "WELL?" he asked still glaring into her eyes. She hit the trunk of a tree and knew there was nowhere to go. So she mustered up all her courage and managed a feeble response "ummm...well....i j-just...just... she burst into sobs. "JUST WHAT? ANSWER ME." He barked barely able to keep from attacking this intruder. Something snapped inside the frightened mare, she opened her eyes and unleashed a stare that would bring Shao Kahn to his knees. Scorpion was struck dumb, he couldn't speak, move, or even blink he just stared at the no longer sobbing Pegasus as she stared at him. With eyes that seemed as if peering into his very soul. "Who am i? i'm just a pony who can't stand to see others fighting. I don't know why you two were arguing, or why you attacked him, but i want you to go apologize right now...i mean if you want too. Fluttershy finished and exiting her fabled stare. To Sub-Zero's shock and amusement Scorpion merely nodded and turned and walked to his prior victim. "Perhaps your theory was not completely unfounded."He muttered almost inaudibly. Sub-Zero merely nodded and rising up, turned to the approaching mare. "I must commend you miss. Commanding Scorpion and have him not kill you, and on top of that obey, you must truly be a force of authority and wisdom. I am Sub-Zero of the Lin Qui, it is a pleasure to meet you." the ice ninja introduced himself. "Hello Sub-Zero i'm Fluttershy." she said in a cheerful but still meek tone. "and it's nice to meet both of you." "Well miss Fluttershy if you don't mind me asking could you tell us which realm we now reside." Sub-zero questioned. "Ooohhh, well your in Equestria, just outside of Ponyville." Shy responded puzzled by the question. "It seems that the portal we came through has taken us to a completely new realm all together." Scorpion thought aloud. "Uummm...what portal? If you don't mind me asking?" Fluttershy asked. "To give a quick summary; we came from another plane of reality known as the Earth realm. However due to a mistake from one of my allies the portal that had been opened for Scorpion and the rest of Out-Worlds forces was warped and consumed not just his ilk but all of us.It seems that me and Scorpion have survived this disaster, which means perhaps the others have as well." Sub-Zero explained. "Oooohhhh my, that sounds terrifying, are both of you okay?" The two ninjas quickly glanced at each other and both nodded in agreement. "Good, uuummm since you two are visitors and all I'd be glad to help you look for your friends. I mean only if you don't mind that is." The shy mare offered. "i would value the help, though i should warn you the forces of Out-world are not any friends of mine. Their whole purpose in my realm to begin with was to conquer and enslave us all." Sub-Zero warned. Fluttershy didn't respond instead she turned to Scorpion and just stared at him. Pondering if what Sub-Zero had really said could be true? after several minutes she finally built up the courage to ask him herself. He nodded slowly but after a few seconds added, "but my alliance to Out-World is no more." This statement receiving puzzled glances from the others. "Very well." the blue ninja said solemnly "then shall we begin our search.:" With that the trio started walking towards town. After several minutes of walking Sub-Zero motioned for Fluttershy to fall back a bit so they could talk in relative privacy. "Did you need something Mr. Zero?" Shy asked curiously. "Not exactly, I merely wished for you too know why I believe Scorpion has had this sudden change of heart." He retorted "OH, and why is that?" "Simply put, i think you've managed to do something, no other living creature has been able to do to Scorpion in a very long time." he foretold. "What, could i have done that would make him change?" Shy asked worriedly. "i think you've earned his respect, but not just that you have reached his long dead heart. I've never seen him this at peace." Sub-Zero elaborated. "Uuummm, what do you mean?" Shy asked even more puzzled then before. "He has had a very difficult past, but for some reason around you he feels a little more at ease, and i think that scares him." With that he gave her a knowing wink and hurried his pace. After contemplating it for a few minute, she caught up with her two new friends, who had stopped just outside the town. She gave them a gentle smile and walked into Ponyville.The ice ninja and the fire ninja shared a short glance and followed the now humming Pegasus into town. Each wondering what their futures would hold. > Dark Plots and Old Hatred > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- While Earth realms forces awoke and searched with their new allies for their old enemies, Shao Kahn has been hard at work planning just how to begin his conquest of this new and very disturbing realm. "Shang Tsung, I need your service." Shao Kahn barked.  "What do you wish of me, Emperor." Shang Tsung groveled. "I have sent reptile to scout for my forces, and sent Quan Chi to collect Scorpion, so i wish for you to use your talent of shape shifting to find my accursed brother and report his plans back to me." the tyrant ordered. "How do you know Raiden still draws breath?" the sorcerer queried. "Do not question me shape-shifter, he still draws breath and you will find him, and report back to me Now." The Alicorn raged. "As you wish though in this new body it may pose more of a challenge." The maroon unicorn expressed. "I do not want excuses,NOW GO!" The  wrathful stallion explained. "As you wish." With that Shang Tsung trailed off into the woods to set his masters plan in motion. "Now brother, though the rules have changed i will still win this game of yours, and take not just Earth Realm but this realm as well. If not to just burn it to the ground. Wherever you are Raiden, prepare for WAR." The blood thirsty tyrant muttered to himself. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Fluttershy knocked repeatedly on the library door and waited for a response. After several minutes of nothing Scorpion lost his patience. "Gah! This is fruitless, allow me too just destroy the door and be done with it." "No Scorpion we cannot resort to that, we managed to get through town with little attention, we cannot risk our enemy knowing where we are." Sub-Zero argued. "I'm sorry i guess she went out. Please don't fight you two." Shy pleaded. "Why not? It would be quite entertaining to watch miss." chuckled a voice from behind the trio. They turned to see a pale white colt unicorn walking toward them. He had no mane and was covered in intricate tattoos. His cutie mark was a skull engulfed in green flames and he seemed to be quite pleased to see his three onlookers. "Scorpion, Sub-Zero it is nice to see you two again." He chimed pleasantly.  "Quan Chi! What do you want sorcerer?" Zero said coldly. "Why must you assume i'm hear for malicious intent? I am merely here to retrieve my angry yellow friend, and we will be on our way." "ummm, what is he talking about? Is he a friend of yours?" A certain nervous mare questioned. "He is no ally of ours. As for what he wants he seeks to return me to Shao Kahns service." Scorpion seethed barely containing his bitter hate.  "Oh my, are...are you gonna go? I mean if he's a bad guy i don't want you too, but whatever you do is fine." Fluttershy murmured. "Excellent, then it's settled. I'm glad such a submissive creature found you. Let's go and Sub-Zero do give my regards to lord Raiden." The necromancer grinned as he strolled toward the frightened mare. "Come no closer, this is far from settled." Commanded The icy colt as he and his yellow counterpart stepped in front of their bashful ally. "He speaks true, I am not coming with you sorcerer." Agreed the fiery spirit. "Really and since when have you two been brothers in arms? Also i wonder why you protect the wench behind you?" Quan Chi pondered. "We are not brothers of any sort, and we defend her because we do not tolerate the likes of you." Scorpion retorted. "I see, very well stay if you like, but you will just end up as another casualty in the end. Until we meet again i bid you all a fond farewell." With that the Necromancer disappeared in a spire of green flames. "This is not good. If Quan Chi is here then his master cannot be far." Zero reasoned. "We best be on our guard." "Ummm...i...i uh...want to thank you for sticking up for me, you didn't have to do that." The Pegasus mare smiled gently. "Your wrong, you are our ally and all Shinobi no matter from what clan, will lay down their lives for their comrades." The blue ninja reassured, getting a single nod of agreement from his fellow ninja. "Thank you, I'm glad you think of me as a friend." Fluttershy said her prior gentleness returning. As they debated over what to do next they heard someone shout. "Fluttershy! Be careful those two are dangerous."  The trio turned to see a small band quickly heading toward them. The first to reach them was a breathless Twilight followed closely by Applejack, Jax, Raiden, Liu Kang, and two others. One of which was draped across Jax back barely conscious.   "Fluttershy are you okay they haven't hurt you have they?" Twilight inquired staring daggers at the two ninja colts.  "Scorpion lay down your arms now and you won't be harmed." Raiden warned several sparks of lightning crackling from his horn.  "Lord Raiden Scorpion is not our enemy please calm down." Sub-Zero parried. "He's a servant of Shao Kahn of course he's a threat." pointed out a light pink Pegasus. "Sonya's right Zero so either stand down or we will assume your our enemy as well." Liu Kang warned. "I no longer serve that tyrant. I'm not your foe." insisted Scorpion barely withholding his anger. "Excuse us if we don't believe you after all times you tried to kill us." Jax remarked smugly. "Jax be careful were you tread, your ego will be your downfall." Sub-Zero said sagely. "Ummm...guys." "You are one to preach Lin Qui how many times has your clan betrayed us when we needed you most?" Raiden questioned warily. "You question him yet how many times have you led those that follow you to their deaths. "Scorpion barked back. Ummm...guys please. "You question me Arachnid, you have no right to question others choices." Raiden bit back. "...guys please if you'd just listen." "I may have made rash and foolish decisions but at least i don't hide behind others." Scorpion yelled in fury. "If you wish to test my strength then i will be more then willing to show you." "Show me, so i may add God slayer to my many titles." "Guuuuuuuuuys." Boomed a very displeased Fluttershy. This outburst silenced the bickering group." "Just listen Scorpion and Sub-Zero aren't our enemies. A matter of fact they just protected me from somepony named Quan Chi. They are my friends and I think your being unfair in judging them without any proof." Fluttershy lamented nearly in tears. "These two protected you?" Twilight asked. "Yeah they aren't bad ponies so please quit fighting." Shy begged. "Is this true did you protect this mare from the likes of Quan Chi?" Raiden queried. "Yes lord Raiden, as i said we are your allies not foes." Reminded a wary Sub-Zero "Very well we will give you a chance, but only because she seems too trust you." Raiden judged. "uhhh...Thank you Raiden sir." Shy squeed. "You said you ran into Quan Chi, this means Shao Kahns forces are readying to attack, let us pray we are ready when they do." Liu Kang stated flatly. "Now would you mind explaining what happened to you when you first awoke in this realm." Jax asked, "Very well." Sub-Zero agreed. They quickly swapped explanations. "What about you Ms. Blade?" Sub asked curiously. "Yeah okay after all Me, AJ, and Johnny were coming back here to give our story and plan out our next course of action anyway." She stated. "You see it it started when me and Johnny woke up in an Apple orchard. Sonya began. > Apple Pie with Side of Knives > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Uuuuggghhhh, what in the world hit me?" Sonya moaned as she struggled to a sitting position. She felt off balance and dizzy but when she raised her arm to steady her aching head she was shocked to find instead of her hand there was a furry pink hoof. "Holy %@$#, what happened?... Wait the portal, but why am i a horse? And what happened to the others?" This question was quickly followed up by moan from behind her.  She turned to see an orange pony with a short light brown mane and strangely familiar sunglasses and belt that bore the word "Cage." "Johnny is that you?"  "uuuuhhh huh? What? Sonya is that you? The dark orange colt began to stir. "Yeah but something happened that you may wanna see with your own eyes." she stated flatly. The prone Cage quickly sat up and was baffled at seeing the equine equivalent of his friend. "Ummm Sonya, you look a little different. He stammered barely able to comprehend the sight before him. "You think Johnny?" She asked, "though you're not much better." "Wait what?" The ex-actor stated finally noticing his own new form. After a few seconds of examining himself he turned back to his smug looking companion. "As hard as it is to believe. i'm still damn fine even as a horse." He said grinning slyly. "Though i kinda wish i had wings like you." He whined teasingly.  "I have wings?" Sonya murmured completely shocked at the two appendages the lay flat at her sides. After a few minutes of experimental flaps she managed to hover a foot or so in the air briefly before landing once more, smiling at the prospect of learning to fly. "Is that all you got?" Her ally laughed playfully. " I mean I'd expect a lot more from Sonya Blade." "Shut up Johnny it's harder then it looks." She snapped back testily. "Okay, okay, but now that I think about it where are we anyway? To that point why are we horses?" He said successfully changing the subject. "Well from what i can tell we're in some sort of orchard. As for why we're equines i think it might have something to do with the portal we were sucked up by." Sonya replied scanning the nearby area. "So do you think the others are here since we made it?"  "I would guess so, but there's only one way to find out." she replied as she trotted off in no particular direction Cage quickly following suite. After ten or so minutes of wandering through the never ending rows of apple trees the duo came upon a clearing with a farmhouse directly in front of them. "Okay so we found civilization, what now? I mean how do we go about explaining who are or why we're here? Johnny sighed as they drew closer to the front door of the simple building.  As they reached the door Sonya assured her worried companion she'd handle it. With that she knocked a few times and waited for someone to answer. After several minutes Sonya was about to knock again when the door swung open, to reveal a Orange pony wearing a stetson and an honest smile gracing her freckled face. "Ummm...hi, i'm Sonya and this is Johnny and we were wondering if you could help us out?" Sonya asked slowly. "Well it's nice teh meet'cha. I'm applejack and I'd be glad to give ah helpin' hoof." The mare responded. "Great. Sonya responded relaxing some. You see me and my friend here are...well we're lost, so if it's not any trouble could you maybe give us some directions or something?" "Shoot that be no problem at all. Come on in i'm sure we have an extra map somewhere. You could join me for breakfast" Applejack offered. "That sounds great i'm starving." Johnny chimed in following their host into the farmhouse. The pair followed their host through the front room and into the kitchen where several plates already adorned a large wooden table. "What's that smell cause it's smells freakin' great?" questioned a certain now drooling colt. "That's just a fresh stack of meh grannies home made apple pancakes. Would ya care for a plate?" The farmer chuckled. Looking at her pleading friend Sonya nodded at him. " I guess some pancakes couldn't hurt, but we really need to hurry." "What's the hurry there sugar-cube? I mean the fate of Equestria isn't hanging in the balance or anything, so just calm your tail feathers and sit a spell." AJ joked as she joined the now gorging Johnny. "I hope you're right." Sonya mumbled to herself taking a seat and joining the others. The rest of the meal passed in a peacful silence. When Applejack went to collect the map after finishing her own breakfast. She however only just left the room when the front door swung open revealing a limping red colt wearing his trademark yoke. "Mac are you okay?" The orange mare worried noticing her brothers limp. "Nope!" The large work horse said through gritted teeth. "Well what happened? Why are you hurt?" The orange pony asked her rising voice attracting her nearly forgotten guests. The colt took a quick look at the new arrivals then merely sighed. "A pair of of thugs attacked me in the east orchard." "What did they look like?" Sonya asked as she stepped closer. Mac didn't answer immediately instead he limped quickly to the nearby couch and hefted his large form onto it. Then he turned and asked who the two new ponies were, looking to his sister for an answer." She quickly explained that they were just a pair of lost travelers. Mac merely sighed and nodded slowly, turning to face the pair. "They were an odd pair one had large teeth and spikes spurtin' from his legs. The other had ah funny accent and a fake eye." Mac said flatly. The pair turned to face each other having the same exact thought. "This isn't good if Kano and Baraka are here then that means Shao Kahn is near." Sonya growled fear and anger snaking from each word. "Yeah, Damn i was hoping they were sent to a universe full of giant monsters or something. Then again i guess our lucks nowhere near that good. Cage sighed slowly. "Wait you know those two?" Applejack asked suspiciously. "Yeah and now there attacking civvies, the cowards." Sonya hissed. "Well then don't keep us in suspense hun, who exactly are these two and why'd they attack meh family." "They're a pair of scum that follow a sadistic skull wearing tyrant called Shao Kahn. Their probably here to search for us and our friends and probably their guys too." The ex-celebrity explained. "They won't stop until they kill everything. Johnny let's go." The pegasus ordered running out the door, her companion quickly following suit. "Wait!" Applejack yelled following the duo. The workhorse quickly caught up to her two new galloping friends. "Shoot you two were in one hay of a hurry back there." The cowpony stated while trying to keep pace with the still rushing duo. "We have to find Baraka and Kano before they hurt someone." Sonya huffed from her continued exertion. "So they're really that bad huh?" AJ quipped. "Oh you have no idea, some of our closest friends have died to these two, and they aren't even the worst monsters from Out-World." Johnny sighed. "Oh...ahm sorry." The orange mare said with a tone of sympathy in her voice. "It's not your fault, so don't worry about it." The Pegasus mare stated flatly as they slowed their approach to the scene of Mac's assault, in hopes of catching the attackers off-guard. "Alright Applejack stay here me and Johnny got this, i don't want any innocents getting hurt okay." The farmer looked like she was gonna argue, but after a moment nodded and watched as the couple crept closer to the clearing in the middle of the orchard. As they drew closer they saw the shapes of two equines sitting in the outcropping in the middle of a heated disagreement. "Damn i can't believe you let the BASTARD just get away like that." A cyber eyed Pegasus raged at his companion. "Don't you dare blame me. You had just as much responsibility as me FOOL!" Hissed an enraged, spike covered, saw toothed Earth pony. "That's a load of croc shit and you know it mate." Retaliated the Australian pony. "This is pointless, if we don't stop our mindless babble we'll never find him before he warns someone who can fight. Baraka protested. His companion let out a dramatic sigh and nodded in agreement "Right let's keep going then befo... He never had a chance to finish his sentence before he was tackled by an enraged Sonya. Baraka tried to intervene but was blocked by a smirking Cage. "Who in the hell are you?" Kano questioned kicking his attacker off himself. "What Kano, You already forgot me? Sonya quipped sarcastically. "Sonya? Well isn't this a small world. I have to say you pull this whole horse thing off nicely, really suits you." He sneered, as he dodged a punch and countered with one of his own. "Yeah keep talking shit, let's see how funny it is when i shove my foo...hoof up your stupid ass." Sonya growled as she ducked from an attack and headbutted her opponent back. "Baaahhhh, I will eat your bones." Baraka hissed lunging at his cocky enemy. "You'll have to catch me first." The orange colt taunted. The pale brown colt merely scoffed and unsheathed the Tarkenton blades from his forelegs. "I will cut you down human, then your little friend." Baraka challenged. "I'm not sure if you've noticed blades for brains, but were not exactly humans anymore. Mused the energetic Earth colt, as he dodged several slices from Baraka s lethal appendages. "No matter your form you will always be a weak, puny, and ignorant human. The Tarkenton pony seethed circling his rival. Without warning Johnny charged his enemy. Encased in a glowing green aura he slammed shoulder first into the surprised monster, sending him crashing into a nearby tree. Kano saw his companion fly into the tree and the grinning colt moving in to finish him.After dodging another kick from Sonya he spit in her face causing her to back up in surprise. This was when the cyborg turned back to the once movie-star, and fired his built in optical heat beam. The beam seared the fur and flesh of his target sending him falling to the ground. Baraka watched in a state of savage pleasure as his enemy collapse after being scorched by his comrades cybernetic eye. He quickly shuffled to his hooves and began walking toward Cages prone form. He lifted his right foreleg ready to deliver the fatal blow, " You can't beat us you fools, even in a two v two we still have you outmatched." The smiling Baraka cackled, but before he could finish his target a blast of fire exploded just in front of him sending him scrabbling back to find his attacker. "Then how about eight vs. two. Liu Kang chided as he and his fellow hero's charged into the fray. "Oh #@%& You're #$%&ing kidding me." Kano raged as he and Baraka both began slowly backing away from the large group of enemies. The Out-World combatants then turned and ran into the trees, quickly disappeared into the foliage. Liu, Sonya, and Jax all made to chase after the retreating villains, but Raiden quickly recalled them. "There's no reason to follow them we will always have another day to fight. For now we need to help Johnny Cage and find any other forces who may be left." The group begrudgingly agreed and after a series of quick explanations the group agreed that the next course of action should be to head back to the library and tend to the wounded colt and formulate a plan for if they run into any other Out-World forces. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ "So that's what happened." Sonya concluded from her chair in the library. "I see, that seems like quite a wake up, though mine might be be a bit worse.:" Sub-Zero chuckled. "Regardless what is our next step?" asked Raiden scanning the room. "Well If me, AJ, and Fluttershy have all found part of the group, then that means the others probably will too." Twilight concluded shaking her head helplessly. "Sounds like our luck." The farmer mare agreed. "Oooohhh...I hope they don't get attacked by any of those mean Out-World ponies." Fluttershy said worry trickling into her voice with each word. "She's got a point, so Fluttershy you and Sonya stay her while the rest of us head to Sugar Cube Corner to check on Pinkie Pie. Twilight announced getting mumbles of agreement. I really hope Pinkie hasn't done anything crazy. Twilight sighed. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ "Weeeelllll Goooood morning." Giggled a bouncing pink pony, as she smiled widely at the half-conscious dark blue Pegasus in front of her. "What the hell is going on?" The semi-conscious colt thought to himself. "Am i dreaming if so why does by back hurt and why can't i feel my hands? I think my hats gone too. Damn and that was my favorite hat, and where the hell are my guns?" He then turned his focus back to the still smiling pony. "Where are my guns?" He moaned. "Your What?" The mare asked confused by the question. > Sugar Cube Showdown > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Alright." mumbled the cobalt Pegasus now fully awake and staring at the overly excited pink pony in front of him. "A few quick questions." he asked. Without waiting for a response he continued. "One who and what are you? Two where the heck am i? Third how the heck did i get here? And fourth and most importantly WHERE THE HELL ARE MY GUNS?" He asked nearly yelling on the last question. A few seconds passed before the still beaming mare answered. Well in order. i'm Pinkie Pie and i'm pastry chef. Right now your in Sugar Cube Corner, which is in Ponyville, which is in Equestria, which is on Equis silly. Your in my room because i woke up early cause my tail was twitchin' so i knew something was gonna fall, but i didn't expect it to be a Pegasus whichiskindaweirdyouknowcausetheycanflyandall, huuuuuhhhh! But i couldn't just leave you in the middle of the street after you hit the roof and weren't moving. To finish i don't know what a (gun) is but your hat and weird gizmo things are over there, wait are those things the gun-thingies?" She finished after seeming to have spoke faster then physically possible and only getting faster as she spoke.    They sat in silence for several minutes as The Pegasus processed the information overload he just received. After going through all she had said he slowly looked down at his body and reeled back nearly falling off the bed. "Why the hell am i a horse? What the hell did that portal do? "he yelped in surprise. "your not a horse silly, your a Pegasus, see you have wings she pointed at his two new appendages. They fell into another lull of silence As the confused gunner came to the reality he was in. He let out a huge sigh. "Well i'm a cop who fights monsters and inner dimensional warriors, so I guess this makes just as much sense." He chuckled dryly. "Good, as i say always look on the bright side." the baker beamed.  Then turning to the table pinkie bad pointed out, before his eyes grew wide. Sitting on the table was not only his favorite hat but his two custom 9mm pistols. A huge grin spread across his face as he quickly rolled off the bed and awkwardly made his way to the table and gathering his twin weapons started cradling them as if they were his own children. Pinkie let out a fit of giggles from the notion. "you really love your gun thingies don't you?" "Heheh, uhhh...ummm."  He blushed as he adorned his hat and reattached his belt and slid his guns into their holsters. "Soooo, you know me, but who are you? "Pinkie said as she crept closer to her guest until her face was only inches from his. "My name's Stryker. Nice to meet ya." he said taking several steps back, still blushing slightly. "It's super-dooper great to meet you." The mare giggled. "oh you should come meet the Cakes their super nice, i bet they'd love to meet you." She exclaimed as she grabbed one of his forelegs through her door and down the stairs. They only made it half way down when they met Mrs. Cake who had been headed to check on her bubbly employee.  "Oh there you are dearie. Mrs. Cake said pleasantly. Her expression quickly changed when she saw the stallion behind her pink tenant. "Who is this dearie. She asked with a nervous chuckle. Pinkie wore a large grin as she looked between Mrs. Cake and her newest friend. "Mrs. Cake meet Stryker and Stryker meet Mrs. Cake. "Nice to meet you." Stryker said giving a wry smile. "It's nice to meet you too." Mrs. Cake retorted with her own anxious smile. "So when did you two meet she asked. "When Pinkie pulled my unconscious body in here after i fell outta the sky and nearly broke my spine hitting your roof." Stryker sighed explaining his reason for being at the bakery before ir was even open. "Oh my are you okay you poor thing?" The Baker cooed all her worries now completely gone. "I 'll live." he promised as the walked down the rest of the stairs and entered the actual Bakery. The plump mare gave him a small smile before heading to the kitchen to get the days wares ready for the early birds. Stryker gave a quick look around the pastry shop and gave a soft sigh. The shop was a bit to bright and cheery for his liking, but he had been in far worse places he thought as a small smile crossed his face. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Shao Kahn sat in his crude stone throne, as he peered around the dismal forest ruins contemplating his next move. He closed his eyes and started cycling through all of the information his warriors had managed to acquire in the few hours they had been on this pathetic little realm. Kano and Baraka had been sent out to search for any stragglers of either side and deal with them accordingly. Shang Tsung was currently keeping an eye on his foolish brother and now he sat in his newly captured base and he was merely waiting for the next piece to fall into place. Then he heard it the sound of dripping water, no not water another liquid one he was much more known to him. He slowly opened his eyes to reveal a small pool of blood that was seemly spreading from nothing. A few moments passed and the pool of blood writhed and churned until it took the form of a light red unicorn. She gave a quick bow before proceeding. "My lord i have come as you wished, what is it you require of me?" The tyrant gave a huff before explaining himself. " I have called you here blood mage to investigate a certain disturbance. You see Shang Tsung has recently sent me a very interesting message. He while in the nearby village sensed a rather potent aura of which feels very similar to my old ally Havok." "I see my lord what would you have me do." The crimson assassin smirked. "Shall i dispose of it?" "No if it is Havok i wish for his alliance not wrath. I want you to acquire his services . Is that understood SKarlet?" "As you wish." she answered s she slowly took her liquid form again and sank away to begin her mission. Shao Kahn once again closed his eyes and returned to meditation over the ever approaching kombat, that would follow his attack of this petty little world. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Stryker reclined back in his chair fiddling with one of his sidearms and basking in the pungent aromas of freshly baked bread, muffins, cakes, and pies. He watched as Pinkie ran back and forth taking care of the small cluster of customers tha had been in the shop in the last fifteen minutes or so. Stryker couldn't help but feel almost relaxed in this land of cakes and pies, but there was still this tingling at the back of his skull that said something was gonna happen and soon. He decided that this was just him being paranoid and closed his eyes slinging his gun too and fro. Suddenly his eyes shot open wide and he let out a small grunt of realization. He looked down at his weapon and just noticed though he could some how hold the gun with his hoof he had no fingers, which meant the weapon was all but useless. "GAAAAAHHHH!" he wailed jumping from his chair in a fit of dismay. Pinkie jumped to his side from what seemed like nowhere. "What's the matter striky." She asked happily. "I just realized i don't have any fingers which means i can't use my damn guns." He growled. "Why would you need fingers? You have perfectly usable wings don't you?" She asked quizzically. "I guess? What does that have to do with anything?" He retorted. Isn't it obvious? Just use your wings to hold them. I've seen Pegasi carry and use all sorts of things like that." She explained simply. "Your kidding my wings can do that?" He asked curiously. "Well Duh, you're really are one of the weirdest ponies i'v ever met." The pink pony giggled. He thought about explaining the whole not really a equine thing again, but decided against it and instead merely shrugged. He grabbed his firearm and wrapped one unfurled wing around it. To his surprise it actually worked fairly well the wing was surprisingly strong and held the gun firmly. "Wow, it actually works." He grinned as he tested the maneuverability of his aim. "See i told you." Pinkie said bouncing in a circle around Stryker. Stryker laughed and was going to respond, when the front door burst inward and a red mare stormed in. "Where is Havok? i wish to have a word with him." The intruding unicorn demanded. "Oh SHIT! Get down." The SWAT pony yelled pushing Pinkie toward the counter, as he fired off several rounds of his pistol. Skarlet jumped away from the bullets projectile and drew her own weapon. "Who do you think you are fool." She sneered as she jumped blade at the ready toward her attacker. Stryker managed to duck in time the blade slicing where his head had been only a second before. Seeing his opponent was off-balance he headbutted her sending her staggering back. He rushed her, but she easily jumped over him and kicked him forward into a nearby table, sending his gun flying away. "Ha, weakling I will slice you open and bathe in your blood." Skarlet mused as she watched her prey stand back up. "Oh yeah, Well it looks like this calls for a little police brutality." He taunted and unsheathing his other sidearm fired another barrage of led at his foe. This time The assassin didn't dodge the attacks, instead she took her liquid form and while her grievance was stunned by this, she oozed quickly toward him resolidifying in time to deliver a hefty kick sending Stryker sprawling. Stryker landed roughly against the wall groaning from the impact. "HI told you hahahaha, you were never a match for me on your own." Skarlet laughed wickedly.as she took severalsteps closer to the prone figure. "He's not alone." Pinkie shouted angrily as she threw a pie directly into the distracted unicorns face. "Aaaayyyy," Skarlet yelled in surprise. Quickly wiping most of the pie from her face she turned to face her new challenger. Stryker watched the pie smack into his antagonists face. As he looked on he saw a glint of metal in the corner of his eye, smiling he slid closer to the object. As Skarlet turned to face his new ally The Pegasus rolled into action. He grabbed the all to familiar 9mm and yelled. "Heeeyyy BITCH, Suuuurrrrprise." He raved as he unleashed the entire magazine at the red mare. Skarlet turned toward the yell but was to late the bullets were already air-borne and in the confusion she didn't have enough time to think clearly. She jumped side ways but though she avoided most of the killer metal one bullet hit her side sending he yelping and staggering back toward the still gaping door. Stryker mustered all of his remaining energy and using his wings to propel him even faster, he drop-kicked the stunned blood mage sending her sailing through the open door and landing with a loud thump on the ground outside. "How'd that taste." The colt cheered, as he watched the defeated mare liquefy once again and disappear. He'd barely turned around and shut the front door when A very excited Pinkie Pie tackled him with a massive hug. "That was so awesome," She whooped. "I mean you kicked that meanie-blood-ninja-ladies flank." A little confused Stryker did his best to return the hug. "Not really if you didn't hit her with that cake she would've gut me like a fish." The stallion responded. "It was a pie silly," she laughed happily. "Seriously though you saved the day. HAAAAAAUUUUHHH, We should throw you a HERO PARTY! The pink pony announced excitedly." "That's not necessary." he explained. "I'm a cop it's my job to help people." The party pony let out a dramatic sigh. "fine but can we at least a cake to celebrate?" Stryker thought about saying no, but he figured it couldn't hurt "Sure Pinkie that sounds fine." Pinkie turned around to retrieve the aforementioned sweets but after only a few steps she quickly trotted back over and quickly kissed Stryker on the cheek. Leaving him stunned as she once again went to grab the cake. The SWAT pony stood there a few seconds before his brain registered what had happened. He shook his head slowly a small smile crossing his lips as he walked over to one of the few still intact tables. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The door to Sugar Cube Corner flew open as A small group of ponies hurried inside. "Hey Pinkie has anythi..." Twilight never completed her sentence as she looked over the mess that was what remained of the bakery. Pinkie and Stryker turned from their slices of cake as the group entered and looked with great delight at the face of the Librarian pony. "Stryker, man what happened in here." Jax whistled looking at the destroyed parts of the building. The cobalt colt smiled causally at his friend. "Oh you know just a normal Monday morning." He grinned as he gave a conspiratorial wink at his pink friend. Who returned it before they both burst out in a fit of laughter. "I see, well in any case we need to talk." Twilight said regaining her senses and explaining the whole situation to the listening duo. > Kutie Mark Krusader Psychics > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Do ya think he's dead?" Applebloom said, staring at the prone form that rested against the tree of their clubhouse. "No he's still breathing." Sweetie Belle answered, after waving her hoof in front of sleeping colts muzzle. "Well whatda' we do?" Applebloom questioned pacing back and forth. "I say we wake him up. I mean what's the worst that could happen?" Scootaloo stated waving her hoof in front of the concealed eyes of the stranger. "Well, first off he could be a criminal or something, or maybe he's a hobo and it'd be mean to just make him leave. Sweetie said worry creeping in his voice. "Oh come on Sweetie Belle, i mean he can't just stay here." The orange Pegasus pointed out. "Scoots right Sweetie. We at least need to find out who he is, and why he's sleepin' in mah families orchard." The southern filly explained. "Fine but you do it just in case." The unicorn submitted. Applebloom slowly crept up to the still figure and gave several quick taps before retreating to her friends, to see the results. They waited several minutes with no results. Scootaloo quickly lost her patience and huffing walked up beside the colt. "Hey MISTER! Wake up." She yelled at the top of her lungs. "uuuuuhhhh, what happened? I feel as if my body was twisted and warped." The earth colt moaned shifting to a seated position. "Good yer awake." Applebloom smiled. "yes i am but who am i talking too?" The blue grey colt mused. "just take that blindfold off and see for yourself." Scoots said dryly. "I could but it would do nothing, as i am blind. My name is Kenshi and you are? The colt explained. The CMC shared a shocked look before turning back to the blind Psychic. They all introduced themselves so he could hear each of their voices. "Well my new young friends it is a pleasure to meet you all." Kenshi responded pleasantly. "So ummm, mister Kenshi why are you out here alone?" Sweetie asked curious oozing from her voice. "That is an excellent question my dear though i know not why i am here, nor what to do without my sword." he answered a slight tinge of sorrow in his voice. "Sword? Why in tarnation would a blind pony need a sword?" AB asked  She and her friends shared a confused look. "Yeah, that makes no sense." Scootaloo agreed. "Well you see my children this sword i speak of is far more then a means of defense." The blind pony said sagely. "Whatcha mean?" Applebloom pondered. "Well you see the sword i seek, is the key that allows me to see." He rhymed with a small chuckle. "Alright now i'm really confused. You know you really are the weirdest blind pony I've ever met." The orange Pegasus stated exasperated. "How many other blind ponies have you actually met?" countered Sweetie Belle. "Uuuuugggg, that's not the point." retorted Scootaloo annoyance edging in her voice. "Girls, girls there's no reason to get mad." Applebloom interjected. "I agree, please let your anger go and let peace fill your mind and body with positive energies." Kenshi preached calmly. "I'm still lost on how a sword lets you see?" Scoots finally resumed. "By letting the spirits of his past see for him." A new voice explained. The CmC turned around to see a red Unicorn stallion approaching them. He wore a black robe with red trim, and a black hood and mouth cover. He slowly walked toward them his shining green eyes resting from one filly to the next as if seeing into their very souls,. Upon which each filly shuttered in turn. Then turning toward the still seated Kenshi the robed colts horn glowed an eerie green and he tossed a sheathed sword that he had been carrying to the monk who caught it just short of his face. "Thank you very much Ermac i'm sorry to have inconvenienced you." The psychic commented hiding a small chuckle. "You should not be so careless then."Parried the lich. "So i take it you two er friends." The red maned filly asked sheepishly. "That is correct young one. To be precise we trained this monk in the art of the mind so he and us could destroy our common enemy."Ermac answered flatly. "To destroy your enemy?" Sweetie belle asked more curious then ever. "You see long ago both Ermac and i were betrayed and nearly killed by an evil sorcerer named Shang Tsung. When i managed to escape with the help of my ancestors." He motioned to his weapon. "I met Ermac who taught me how to harness my latent power so i may find and hopefully defeat the monster who stole my natural sight." The now erect colt relayed morbidly. "That's soooo coool." The CmC shouted together grins spread across each of their faces. "You find this somehow amusing?" Kenshi asked stunned by the young fillies response. "Well yeah i mean your a blind stallion who uses a ghost sword as eyes and can use magic when your an Earth pony. That is beyond awesome." Scootaloo cheered jumping up and down as she did so. "Yeah, and yer' friend seems pretty neat too." Applebloom added happily. "and and, uhhhh, what they said." Sweetie belle blanched not able to think of anything to add. "Heheheheh, That is the strangest reaction I've ever gotten." The monk laughed. "Indeed your attitude towards our goal is quite strange." Ermac said plainly. "You truly are an interesting group of children, but me and my friend here must go, we need to find our allies before something unfortunate happens." Kenshi explained getting a series of upset looks from the CmC. Sweetie belle quickly replaced her frown with another smile. "Hey maybe we can help you after all we know Ponyville like the back of our hooves i'm sure we can find your friends." Sweetie pleaded getting several identical looks from her companions. " We do not think that wise we would not wish for you children to get injured if we must engage in combat." Answered The lich from behind them. "The fillies opened their mouths to protest, when there was a loud rustling from the nearby foliage. "I think it maybe a little to late for that." Kenshi said hefting his still sheathed sword in preparation for the worst. The group waited in a deathly silence, listening for any more suspicious noises. The minutes crept by slowly before another rustling came from a shrub behind the. They  turn expecting an attack or foe to appear, but as the noise came to an end a small squirrel jumped from the brush and scurried away. "it seems we maybe getting a bit..." Kenshi began but before he could complete his thought.  A loud hiss resounded through the  clearing. Then before the startled party could react a large reptile launched itself from a tree lunging toward Ermac. The mystic however lit his horn and teleported out of the way causing the beast to crash into the ground and land in a crouched position ready to attack the five awaiting ponies. "It seems Shao Kahn is looking for a fight." The synthesized colt mused as he stepped toward the dragon. "Do not speak of the Emperor like that traitor." Reptile hissed angrily. "Do you plan on stopping us creature?"  Ermac sneered as his horn charged with a massive amount of energy. "HAAAAH! With pleasure." The reptilian warrior roared as he lunged at his target claws and teeth bared. "What the heck is goin' on why is that dragon attackin' us? and what is ah Shao Kahn?" Applebloom asked baffled as the two fighters collided. "This is not good, children stay behind me. If Reptile is here then he's most likely not alone." The blind stallion says ignoring the fillies questions. "Why what's going on? I thought you guys were after somepony named Shame Soup or something?" Scootaloo sighed annoyed. "You mean Shang Tsung and yes, but he is merely a pawn in a game for power." Kenshi corrected shifting side to side searching for any other disruptions nearby. Before the young ponies had another chance to speak there was a small shift in the air followed by the sound of rustling leaves. "Girls take shelter NOW. Kenshi instructed as he unsheathed his mystic blade, and turned to face the noise.  Just as his blade was freed he raised to the CLANG of steel on steel. As Kenshi's blade looped between the twin blades of his attacker. His enemy chuckled at him through his re-breather. "Well Kenshi, it's been to long how's it going." The burned pony asked pleasantly, with his distorted voice. "Kabal, it's nice to hear you again. Unfortunately i have more pressing matters then dealing with you." The monk bit back. He pushed away from his foe and took a position between the merc and the now vaguely hiding fillies. "Cute kids, but since when did psychics take up babysitting?" Kabal laughed taking note of the irritated looking fillies. "HEY we are not babies." Scootaloo whined back at the speedster. "Quiet brat the grown ups are talking." He said with a cold glare. Kenshi used this distraction to channel his chi and hurl Kabal back sailing across the clearing directly into a brawling Reptile. The CmC let out cheers of amazement as Kenshi walked up to join his red cloaked friend. "The fool lowered his guard, how weak." Ermac stated matter-of-factly. The two prone fighters quickly rose and began another brutal assault.  Both sides battled fiercely, but it seemed the psychics synergy would over power the warriors of darkness. Kabal however had a back up plan.  "Hey scaly i have an idea. Give me a distraction and i can guarantee we'll win." Kabal whispered hurridly. Reptile didn't answer but merely nodded in understanding. He let out a loud roar before spewing bile from his mouth. The bile hit Ermac in the face blinding him and sending him staggering back. Kabal grinned at Reptiles handiwork and when Kenshi rushed the dragon, he acted. Rushing passed his enemies he took a direct coarse for the bewildered crusaders. "Ha Game over." He taunted his blades held menacingly toward the now angry and scared trio. "Coward, how dare you use these innocents as a means to hide behind." The blind monk snarled. "uh, uh, uuuh, one wrong step and these three adorable brats die." The merc warned. Reptile quickly slid by his former enemies and joined his ally taking Scootaloo by the throat. "Release the small ones now or we shall rip you limb from limb." Ermac promised taking several steps toward the captors. "No, instead here's whats gonna happen we're gonna take these kids as hostages and leave and if you try and stop us their blood will be on your hands...er hooves?... whatever." Kabal instructed, as he forced the two fillies in front of him to begin to march away grudgingly. The two psychics attempted to give chase but as soon as they drew close reptile hissed and spat a trail of acid that blocked their path as well as causing a tree to fall toward them. Ermac grabbed the tree with his magic and as he held the tree at bay Kenshi summoned forth the channeled energies of his fallen family and just as the two Out-World warriors were out of sight he grabbed Scootaloo from Reptile's grip and with a huge heave teleported her to him. Ermac threw the tree out of their path but by now the evil duo was gone and so were the other members of the CmC. Several minutes passed before the true gravity of what was happening sunk in. "So what do we do now? we are gonna save them aren't we?" Scootaloo begged nearly in tears. "Yes but if we're going to save them we'll need help. Do you know anyone who might be able to trace them?" Kenshi asked gently. Scootaloo sat on her haunches and thought barely able to concentrate with the worry and fear coursing through her. After several minutes she gave a grin. "RAINBOW DASH she yelled. "She can keep up with anypony i'm sure she can help." Ermac and Kenshi gave a shared nod. "Lead us to this Rainbow Dash." The lich spoke giving the slightest look of sympathy. "Alright follow me." Scootaloo shouted as she ran toward town the Psychics right behind her.