Master Thief Dragon

It was the next morning at school, where Twilight and the rest of the girls were getting bombarded with questions. It didn't take long for everyone to find out the six had been caught up in a crime scene involving Dragon and the Dragon Gang that abducted them. And the girls were just anxious to tell their fellow classmates their experience with the notorious thief.

"Are you serious!?" a female student asked them, "You girls actually met Dragon!?"

"Yep!" Rainbow confirmed, "He's every bit as awesome in person!"

" Not to mention a heroic gentleman," Rarity swooned, "Oh, if only I could have let me see that handsome face of his..."

Applejack cut her off, "How would you know he's handsome underneath that mask? For all we know, that outlaw must be uglier than a discarded mushy apple on a hot summers day." many students gagged at the thought of something like that.

Pinkie Pie spoke up, "Aw, don't be such a sour tower, Jackie."

"He was really nice...for a criminal, I mean." Fluttershy said nervously.

Applejack stayed true to her opinion, "Yeah, well he could save my family's farm and donate food to orphans and I still wouldn't trust him. You heard him for yourselves, girls. Dragon takes pride in being a bad seed and he thinks it's fun running circles around the law!"

Rarity continued to defend Dragon, "Well, I happen to think Dragon has some good in him. Personally, I would rather be in his arms than in the clutches of those brutes that kidnapped us." she stuck her head up.

Applejack groaned before turning to Twilight, "Twilight, help me out here."

Twilight however just looked impassive, and answered, "We really should take our seats, girls. Mr. Lupin will be here at any moment."

Rainbow rolled her eyes, "Aw, come on, egghead. You know he's always late. We got five minutes to chill."

Twilight said nothing as she just took her seat and read from her textbook. The rest of the girls could tell she was still bitter about Cadence claiming Spike as her own. So they decided to just take their seats, until Spike entered to address his class, "Good morning, Class."

"Good morning, Professor Lupin." the students greeted him.

"First off I want to say to Twilight, Rarity, Pinkie, Rainbow, Jacquelyn, and Fluttershy, I'm relieved to hear the six of you are safe given the situation of last night." Spike told the six who felt bashful to hear how much he cared, while Twilight looked at him while trying not to think of Cadence next to him.

"You could say that we were in safe hands, Mr. Lupin." Rarity assured him.

Spike smiled to himself but answered, "I hardly think the hands of a notorious criminal are anything but safe."

Rarity replied, "You'd be surprised. I felt safer in Dragon's arms than being manhandled by those...ugh. I can't even classify those ruffians as men."

Spike held in a chuckle, as he spoke up to his students, "Now then, let's begin today's lesson."

Later that day after school let out, Spike was in his classroom looking over papers until he heard a knock at his opened door. He looked over and saw Twilight, "Oh, Twilight." he gasped.

"Can I come in, sir?" she asked.

"Of course," Spike answered, as Twilight walked in, "Once again I'm glad to know you and the girls are safe after going through a spectacle like that."

"Do you know how we ended up getting captured in the first place?" she asked.

Spike knowing she was baiting him into confessing knew there was no point to deny, "I have a very good idea."

"Then Cadence told you?" Twilight inquired.

"More or less." Spike confessed.

"And the reason you never told me, or was it because you didn't want to hurt my feelings while knowing I also had my eyes on you?" she asked suspiciously.

"I wanted to tell you, Twilight. I just didn't know the best way to say it."

"Like there's a best way to tell your childhood friend you've been seeing her sister-in-law behind her back?" Twilight started sounding angry.

"Fair enough. But Cadence was broken and emotional just like you. She had her aunts for comfort but she also needed a male's comfort as well. And face it, your brother's partner turned out to be a poor choice to go to. Point being I was there for both Cadence and you. It's just the thing with Cadence happened so spontaneously I didn't think it would happen."

Twilight got closer, "What if it had been me instead of Cadence? Would you have minded less?"

"Twilight?" Spike asked, while feeling nervous at how close she was.

"I've loved you, Spike. I've loved you for years. Even if you're my teacher and I'm your student we're still teenagers. So why should that keep us apart?" she threw her arms around Spike and tried kissing him.

Every time she tried to get her lips closer, Spike kept pushing her back, "Twilight, no. Twilight, stop it! Twilight!" he pushed her off, "No...just...no. It can't happen. We can't happen. We're friends and that's all there is to it. I'm sorry. "

Twilight upon hearing Spike rejecting her cried and shouted, "Spike, you jerk!" she ran out of the room. As she ran out her friends saw her running, and followed her in concern. As she ran she thought to herself in guilt, 'Why did I do that?'

"Twilight!" Spike called, but knew it was pointless to try and stop her. He sighed to himself, "I hate it when the right thing to do feels wrong." He left his room and headed for Celestia's office.

Upon entering Tia, Luna, and Cadence saw their master in a dismal mood, "Master, what happened?" Luna asked in concern.

"Twilight." he answered.

"What'd she do?" Cadence asked in worry.

"She confronted me about the nature of the relationship you told her we had."

"And..." Cadence waited for the result.

"She threw herself at me." Spike sighed.

"What did you do?" Celestia asked.

"I got her off me before she could lay her lips on me. And before anyone could see us. Needless to say, she didn't take it well."

"I can't believe she tried to force herself on you." Cadence said in shock.

"Well, she did. And now she thinks I'm a jerk for rejecting her."

"It's either that or your secret is exposed, Master." Celestia reminded him.

"I know," Spike sat down feeling stressed, "I just hate to risk losing one of my best friends."

"We all feel that way, Master." Cadence assured him.

Spike brushed it off, "Anyway. We got a mission tonight. Mr. Alec Mezrin the big video arcade game enthusiast has recently purchased a crown once belonging to my Great-Great-Great-Great-Great Grand Uncle King Eldrax."

Luna held up a file, "According to this file, Alec Mezrin's self proclaimed name is The Gamer. And his entire estate is themed after video games."

"Well, I'm sure to have a blast there," Spike chuckled, "Come on, let's get ready." the ladies nodded, as they headed off.

Meanwhile, Twilight was still running with her friends trying to keep up, "Twilight, ease up on the reins!" Applejack called.

"Yeah. What's the rush?" Pinkie asked.

"I don't wanna talk about!" Twilight called back, only to end up bumping into someone who dropped some crepes he was holding.

The girls stopped to see Twilight had bumped into a man in his early thirties with short black hair, and dark eyes. He had tiger tattoos on his arms, and sheathed on his waist was a katana. The man looked down at his fallen crepe and sighed, "And I was really looking forward to some crepes."

Twilight gasped, and spoke, "Oh, God. I am so sorry!" she tried to salvage the crepes, "Um...look! One crepe is saved! Not all was lost!" she smiled widely, which turned into a sad face and sighed, "Ooh, I'm sorry, I wasn't looking where I was going, and...look I can pay for it. It's the least I can do, please!"

"And we'll be happy to pitch in as well." Rarity offered.

"Sure thing." Applejack agreed.

"No, girls. It's my fault so I have to make up for it." Twilight replied.

The man seeing how distressed Twilight looked smiled sympathetically, "It's quite all right. I was actually thinking of going someplace else for a bite. Would you ladies care to join me?"

"Join you?" Fluttershy asked in confusion.

"I smell stranger danger." Pinkie said suspiciously.

"Yeah. How do we know you're not trying to lure us into some kinda trap?" Rainbow asked in equal suspicion.

"Hold on, ya'll," Applejack stopped them, as he looked the man in the eye as if studying him carefully, "My gut's telling me he ain't leading us on."

"He isn't?" Twilight asked.

"Nuh-uh."

"Well, your guts never been wrong before." Rainbow admitted.

"Well, sir, we shall take you up on your offer. Though could we have your name, please?" Rarity inquired.

"Call me Byakko. And your names?"

"Twilight Sparkle. And these are my friends Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie."

"A pleasure, girls. Shall we get going?" he offered, and the girls followed him.

The next thing the girls knew, they were eating with Byakko in a luxurious restaurant inside a private dining hall. As Byakko ate his meal, the girls were awestruck at where had taken them. Rarity spoke up in awe, "I...I can't find the words, I...when you said you were going to treat us to dinner, I most certainly didn't expect this. I feel under-dressed in a place like this."

"Yeah, I kinda expected, oh I don't know, burgers and a shake, not the freaking Ritz Restaurant." Rainbow added.

"It is a bit overwhelming." Applejack put in, while feeling uncomfortable.

"Well, the owner owes me a favor and I did feel like eating fancy," Byakko answered, "Besides, I could never resist the sirloin medallions of this place, bacon wrapped and drenched in gravy and mushrooms."

"It must've been some favor." Twilight noted.

Rainbow chuckled and decided to pass a joke, "So what did you do, mister? Rescue the owner's daughter from terrorists or something?"

Byakko answered calmly, "Among other things."

Silence hung in the air, as the girls looked at him oddly, until Rainbow burst into laughter, until she noticed the serious expression of Byakko's face, "Wait, you're serious?"

"Dead serious."

"Whoa." she gasped.

"So are you some kind of warrior?" Rarity inquired.

"More like a hired helper. As long as the pay and reward is fitting."

"So what brings a swordsman like you to the city?" Pinkie asked.

"I've come here to catch the worlds most elusive criminal throughout history." Byakko explained.

"You're here to catch Dragon?" Fluttershy gasped.

"I guess you've heard of the police chief's bounty offer?" Twilight guessed.

"Indeed. The money is something I desire, but what I'm truly interested in is pitting my skills against one as elusive as Dragon. A worthy opponent I dare say."

"Well, you better be as good as you think you are," Rainbow said, "Dragon's not one to go down so easily. Trust me, we've seen him up close."

"He's always ready for anything." Pinkie added.

"And that's a fact." Applejack put in.

"I appreciate your concern, girls. But I assure you that I never failed a hunt, " Byakko patted the sheath. "Besides, my masamune blade has never tasted the likes of Dragon before. It should a great and rewarding experience for me." The girls minus Applejack couldn't help but gulp in worry for Dragon if someone as serious as this Byakko was going to come gunning for him.

Later that night, Dragon was flying through the sky to the edge of the city on his gliding wings before tapping into his earpiece, "Lulu, I'm coming up on Mezrin's estate."

"Be careful, Master. There's no telling what secret securities this man has." Luna's voice came over.

"I still say you should've brought me and Cadence with you, Master. And I'm worried about you taking on this challenge after what happened between you and Twilight today." Celestia's voice came.

"Don't worry, this one I can handle myself. You girls just sit back and relax. Besides, I need something to take my mind off what happened today." Dragon assured them.

Dragon landed in the wide open front lawn of the estate. He looked around seeing various statues and hedge sculptures of classic video game characters like Donkey Kong, Q-Bert, Mega Man, Pac Man, Mario, and Sonic, "He must've paid a fortune for these." Dragon crept along the lawn while ducking and hiding behind various statues in case he had been spotted.

When he reached the estate window he carved open a hole in the glass and undid the latch. After opening the window he slipped in and looked all around seeing various portraits depicting old school game covers from the first Super Mario Bros, Kirby, Zelda, Duck Hunt, Golf, Tetris, Frogger, and many other old classics. Dragon whistled impressively, "He's got taste," he tapped his ear piece, "Alright, I'm in. Walk me through."

"Down the hall and then make a right." Luna answered.

Dragon nodded, as he walked down the hall admiring the artwork. What also captivated him was several display cases containing old videogame cartridges and old game systems, "Wow. The very first games and consoles ever made. Even an Atari. He has an Atari!"

Luna giggled from her line with Celestia and Cadence. The hacker spoke, "Master, while we're thrilled to see you fan-boying over your game craze, you must remember the mission."

"I'm aware of that, Lulu," Dragon replied, "But I just wish I could have a chance to play some of these games."

"So you want to play games, Dragon?" came a flamboyant voice on a speaker. Dragon stopped in his tracks and got defensive, "I thought you'd never ask." Suddenly the entire hallway was filling up with gas. Dragon was coughing up a storm, while unable to see through the gas.

"Master, what's going on?" Celestia asked, as Dragon fell to the floor unconsciously, "Master, respond! Master!"

Later on, Dragon groaned before regaining consciousness, "Oh, what the hell happened?" he got up and saw he was in a dark room, "Where am I?" he tapped his ear only to feel nothing, "My earpiece! It's gone!"

The lights suddenly came on to reveal the room was designed like a dungeon level in Zelda with a single door up ahead. Lowering down from the ceiling was a flat screen TV that turned on to reveal a man with messy brown hair and wearing glasses, "Welcome, Dragon. I am Alec Mezrin, but please call me Gamer. I do apologize for gassing you."

"I've been done worse." Dragon admitted.

"I'm sure by now you realized your earpiece is missing. I took it from you because I don't want you cheating for what I have in store. But don't worry, the earpiece is all I took. I didn't bother to look under your mask. That wouldn't be honorable."

"I appreciate that." Dragon replied, still on guard.

"I had my hunches you would come to my estate in the hopes of stealing the crown I just bought. So I went through all the trouble of setting this contest up for you." he took a sip of cola from a glass.

"Contest?" Dragon wondered.

"That's right. You see I don't have too much fun with my retired life other than collecting old video games to satisfy my game obsession. Then when I heard about you I was amazed at how you've been able to avoid the police like a hero in a video game avoiding enemies. Your heists must feel like one big video game to you, does it not?"

"Not exactly how I'd describe it, but say what you want."

"So anyway I bought this crown in hopes you would come and partake in this little contest I've set up especially for you. As a means to prove you are worthy to claim the prize." The Gamer held up the crown decorated in amethyst gemstones.

"So I'm just the subject of your amusement?" Dragon crossed his arms.

"Don't think about doing it for my amusement. Think of it as a challenge to better your skills."

"And what if I refuse to do this contest?" Dragon asked.

"I don't think you have much of a choice. The only way for you to get out is to play my games. I hold all the cards right now, Dragon. And unless you want to stay trapped where you are I suggest you take up my proposition."

Dragon pondered on this knowing he was in no position to make demands or anything. Without his earpiece he couldn't contact Luna to walk him through. With reluctance he answered, "All right, Gamer. I'll play your games."

"Excellent!" The Gamer applauded, "Now here's how it goes. There are seven levels in this contest. Each one has a particular themed game for which you must fight your way through and win to make it to the next round. You will not be permitted to use any of your own gadgets and devices otherwise you fail. I will explain the details of the first game when you arrive. Understood?"

"Yes."

"Then let the games begin!" he declared as the screen went blank.

Dragon looked ahead at the doorway, "All right. No turning back." he went to the door and opened it.

The thief found himself inside a maze with ten spheres hovering above certain spots, "Oh, terrific. A labyrinth." he rolled his eyes.

The Gamer's voice could be heard through a speaker, "Ah, oldie but goodie. A maze game! As you can see, there are glowing hovering balls littered throughout the maze. You need to switch all of them off so you can unlock the chamber at the center of the maze. You'll find the the first of your equipment there."

Dragon looked over seeing a table with a shield and sword on it. He picked up both weapons, and thought, 'Why would I need these for in a maze game?" a buzzing sound was heard, as Gamer spoke up.

"Did I mention you'll be chased by armed drones? Happy gaming!"

"Drones?" Dragon asked, as he saw one robotic drone armed with a sword approaching him.

"Destroy! Destroy!" The drone spoke.

"All right. Game on!" Dragon went at it and fought the drone in swordplay. To the thief's surprise the drone was fighting like an actual swordsman, "Guy knows how to program bots." he used his shield to block the drone's sword swipes.

Dragon looked behind the drone seeing the first sphere close to him, "Just have to turn that and the others off. But first to get past bucket of bolts!" he maneuvered behind the drone and used his sword to slice at the legs making the drone unable to stand. He ran to where the first sphere was and jumped to it. Upon touching it the sphere stopped glowing, "One down. Nine to go."

Dragon started going through the maze while using the sphere's floating above to help guide him. When he thought he was about to reach the second one he ended up at a dead end, "Damn! Should've made that left turn instead." he was about to go back only to see another drone armed with a blaster, "Oh, give me a break!" he groaned, before the drone started opening fire.

Dragon used his shield to block the shots, as he got closer and closer before slicing the drone's arms off and stabbing it in the torso shutting it down. He made the left turn and saw the second sphere. He touched it and it shut down. Dragon continued through the maze disarming any drones who approached him, while deactivating the spears. He looked and saw only one left and ran for it only to be surrounded by drones armed with blasters.

"Drop weapons or we shoot." one drone said.

"Dropping." Dragon dropped his two weapons and raised his hands while secretly waiting to make a move. He quickly dove under one of the drones legs, as the other tried opening fire. Dragon used the drone he slid under as a shield before pushing it into the others. He ran for it and made a jump for the sphere turning it off.

Upon deactivating, all the drones shut down, and the maze was sinking into the floor. As Dragon looked around the Gamer's voice spoke through the speaker, "Congratulations, Dragon. You passed the first level. Truthfully I actually thought you were done for when they surrounded you."

"Your drones are just like the cops. Stepping stones." Dragon answered cool and calmly.

The Gamer spoke, "The door up ahead will lead you to your next challenge. But be warned each challenge gets harder and harder the further you advance."

"When things get harder, you just have to try harder." Dragon answered smugly.

"Proceed." The Gamer instructed, as Dragon went to the next door and opened it.

Dragon looked around seeing a large room with the flooring being large black and white tiles. He said to himself, "Doesn't look like anything's suspicious," Suddenly the tiles started dropping and Dragon looked seeing below the floor was a pit of water and the tiles still standing were like pillars. The thief face faulted, "I shouldn't speak so quickly."

The Gamer's spoke to him, "Welcome to level 2, Dragon. This game you'll be playing is something I like to call 'Platform Hell'."

"I've seen Hell before and it's nothing like this." Dragon quipped.

"The object of this level is simple. You must cross through this pit using the remaining tiles as platforms. Make sure you don't fall or you're in trouble."

"Why, what's in the pool below me?" Dragon asked knowing it was something carnivorous that swims.

"Below you is an entire school of piranhas."

"Piranhas? What happened you couldn't get a shark or two?" Dragon asked sarcastically.

"Tried too. But they're so hard to come by even for someone as loaded as me. Oh, and here's a little twist on your challenge," Gamer continued, as Dragon saw the remaining platforms started moving around the pit in unpredictable patterns, "Have fun!"

Dragon took a deep breath, "Ok. I have to trust in my gut, and not fall," he backed away a bit and saw one platform was getting close to his position. When it was reaching the spot, Dragon ran and made a jump for it and landed on the platform, "Yes!"

He looked around seeing the tiles started spreading out making it tricky for him to pick one to jump to. Dragon waited it out before seeing one getting close, "Now!" he called, as he made the jump and landed on it. He suddenly lost his footing and almost stumbled off the platform before regaining balance. He looked down into the pit seeing the piranhas swimming around and feeling hungry, "I hate seafood."

Dragon started calculating on the platforms movement and started jumping from platform to platform getting closer and closer to the other side. When he saw he was a jump away he had to make it count, "Need to wait until it gets close enough," he told himself. When he pinpointed how far the platform would reach the door he thought, 'It's a long shot, but I can make it.' He backed up getting ready to run.

When his platform reached the point where it would move further away, he ran and made the leap of faith. Dragon was almost there and just barely landed on the ledge, "Made it!" he cheered, only for the spot he was standing on the broke off and he fell back screaming.

As Dragon plummeted into the pit he quickly activated the sharp dragon nails on his gloves. He grabbed the wall digging the dragon nails into it as he slowly slid down leaving claw marks in the wall. He stopped before seeing he was a few feet away from the piranha infested pool. He sighed in relief, "That was too close." he began scaling up the wall before climbing onto the safe spot.

Gamer spoke up, "Congratulations! You've completed level 2!"

Dragon frowned and shouted, "That was a dirty trick, Gamer!"

"What's a challenge without an unexpected twist?" Gamer asked slyly, "Besides if anyone cheated here it's you for using your own gadgets!"

Dragon smirked under his mask, "It's your own fault for not checking my costume thoroughly."

Gamer grumbled, but dismissed it, "No matter. Now that you've completed level 2, proceed through the door to your next challenge. Go along."

Dragon grumbled to himself, "I'm starting to wonder if this is all worth it?" he went to the door, and went to the next room.

Meanwhile back at the restaurant, the girls had been watching Byakko put on an exhibition for the guests at the cafe. He was performing sword tricks, while slicing various foods and ingredients like bread loaves, cucumbers, carrots, onions, and potatoes. The sliced pieces of food landed perfectly on plates and were ready for serving.

"Shazam!" Pinkie gasped.

"Marvelous!" Rarity said in awe.

"Whoo doggy." Applejack whistled.

"So awesome!" Rainbow cheered.

"Oh, my." Fluttershy gasped.

"Amazing." Twilight marveled.

Byakko sheathed his sword and the patrons applauded, "Thank you. Thank you, everyone." he replied.

The swordsman went back to his table, and spoke to the girls, "I take it you found my performance appealing?"

"More than appealing. It was extraordinary." Rarity said with joy.

"You got mad skills with that sword, bro." Rainbow said.

"How'd you learn to use it so well?" Fluttershy asked.

"Lots of practice," Byakko answered, "But slicing fruits and vegetables is just child's play and not satisfying to my blade."

"You speak like your sword's alive." Applejack noted.

"A weapon is not merely a tool. But an extension of the one who uses it. And like my desire it thirsts for Dragon. And in due time, the Dragon will meet its slayer." he patted his sheathed weapon. The girls minus Applejack were still concerned for their rescuer while also curious how their swordsman friend was going to subdue the thief.

Back with Dragon, the thief had entered the next level to see a dark dungeon setting with empty cells and stacks of barrels and crates lying around, "Chief Iron Will always promised I'd end up in here one of these days."

The Gamer spoke through the intercom, "Welcome to Level 3, Dragon. This setting is a classic dungeon level. Your objective to find the four silver keys to unlock the door out, while avoiding my drones once again. But escaping the dungeon is just the first part."

"There's more?" Dragon asked.

"Oh, yes. Once you've gotten out of the dungeon you will be forced to face your true opponent!" Gamer declared.

"Oh, that I have to see."

"You will if you can survive the dungeon and find the keys. You'll find your weapons on the side," Dragon looked and saw another sword and shield for him to use. He picked them up, and Gamer called out, "Good luck!"

Dragon watched, as drones started popping up armed with shields and swords like he was. Dragon stood tough and went further into the dungeon level and began fighting one of the drones with his sword. After disarming the drone, Dragon stabbed its torso shutting it down. He looked around and thought, 'I need to find four silver keys. In dungeon levels they're always hidden in the most obvious places," he saw a pile of crates and used his sword to pry one open and looked inside seeing it was empty, "Not here," he pried open some more to reveal they had nothing. Finally he opened the fifth crate and looked inside seeing a silver dungeon key in it, "Jackpot!" he picked it up and pocketed it, "One down and three to go."

Dragon continued to scope out the dungeon thinking of anymore possible hiding places for the keys, while taking down any drone he ran into. He looked inside one of the empty and unopened cells and looked at the cell bed, "I wonder..." he went to the mattress and lifted it up to see nothing under it, "Dammit!" he put the mattress back down, and suddenly felt something solid underneath the mattress sheet, "Wait a minute," he pulled the sheet off and saw the key was underneath it, "Almost missed that." he pocketed the key.

Before he could exit the cell, a drone blocked his escape. Dragon spoke, "Time to send you to the scrap heap!" he charged forward with his sword up front and tackled the drone out of the cell. He stabbed the drone shutting it down, "Ok, two more keys." he hurried to check the other cells he started tearing apart the bed and pillows hoping to find a key, but had no such luck.

Dragon looked around until he saw something shiny above him. He looked up seeing the third key was dangling from a candle holder hanging by the ceiling, "How am I gonna get up there?" he asked himself, before seeing two drones charging in, "That'll work." Dragon fought the two drones, before disarming them of their swords. He jumped onto a nearby barrel before jumping onto one drones head before jumping onto the other giving him a boost up. When the thief made the leap he snatched the key before gravity took affect and brought him back to the ground.

"Three!" he cheered, before running through the dungeon in search of the final key, "One more to go. Where could the Gamer have hidden it?" He looked around before spotting a shield hanging on the wall. Curiously he took it off the wall and looked behind it seeing the final key, "And that makes four," he took the key, and suddenly saw a squad of armed drones ready to fight. Dragon stood tall and called out, "All right, boys. Bring the noise!"

The drones charged into battle as Dragon did too. As the thief closed in, he grabbed one drone and pushed him backwards ramming him into several drones following behind him. The line up slammed into the wall, and Dragon made a run for it to the door. Upon reaching the door, he took the keys out and stuck each one in their respective holes. Before he could turn one the door was impaled by a sword which startled Dragon. He looked back seeing the drones were running for him. He quickly turned the keys and unlocked it. He opened it and called out to the drones, "Love to stay, boys, but I got a job to do." he went through the door and closed it before three more swords impaled it.

In the other room, Dragon rested his back against the door panting, "Good thing that's over with," he looked ahead and saw he spoke too soon. He saw sleeping atop a pile of fake treasure was a giant red dragon, "Oh my God," he gasped to himself, "A robot dragon is my final opponent for this level? Maybe I can avoid it if I move through quietly." he tip toed past the dragon, when suddenly Gamer's voice came through.

"Did you forget this is my challenge? The Dragon is meant to fight you!"

The Dragon woke up and roared at the thief who jumped away from its mouth. Dragon looked up at his opponent and knew he was going to really need to think things through. Suddenly a thought came to him and he spoke to the dragon drone, "Hey, you're a dragon. I'm a dragon so to speak. We should be buds," The dragon drone responded by breathing fore at him. Dragon jumped aside and hid behind a pillar, "So much for that plan."

He came out from behind the pillar, and saw the dragon lunge its head for him. Dragon swatted his sword at the drone's face. When the robot beast breathed a stream of fire at him, the thief used his shield for protection. When the dragon drone had to refuel, the thief ran around the monster by running up its back and stabbing it with his sword. To his surprise, the drone didn't shut down, "Guess one stab's not gonna cut it." he tried stabbing the drone some more, only for his opponent to shake him off.

Dragon landed on the ground and saw the dragon drone was about to drop its tail on him. The thief rolled away to avoid the tail, before running behind another pillar, "No way I can stab it enough to shut it down. I need a new strategy." He started analyzing his surroundings, before spotting a chandelier suspended from the ceiling by a chain link. He smirked developing a plan.

Dragon put it in motion by running around the chamber avoiding the dragon drone's fire breath before scaling up a pillar and threw his sword at the pulley mechanism causing the chandelier to fall and land around the drone's neck like a collar. The thief leaped from the wall grabbing onto the end piece of another chain dragging more of it with him, "Yo scale face! I got a little saying for you!" Dragon started running around the dragon drone looping around it and swinging while reciting something.

"The dragon goes under the bridge, through the loop, and finally, into the castle!" Dragon flipped over the dragon drone and stood calmly. The dragon drone's entire body was hogtied by the chandelier chain including it's mouth, "Get out of that if you can." he mocked.

The big drone suddenly shut down, and Gamer spoke to the thief, "Congratulations, Dragon. You once again used your quick thinking to outwit your opponent. And against one as big as an actual dragon. Well done."

"It doesn't matter how big my opponent is, I won't be intimidated by size." Dragon declared.

"Well, then proceed to the next room, where your opponents will be the right size for you." Gamer said, as Dragon saw the door to the next level. He proceeded and went inside.

Dragon opened the door and entered to see the whole room was designed like a soccer field. The thief walked onto the field and called out, "Ok, what now?"

Suddenly appearing in the stands were robot drones cheering, and Gamer's face appeared on the digital scoreboard, "Welcome, Dragon, to Level 4! For this level we're going into the world of sports. And the sport you will be playing is Soccer!"

"Soccer, really?" Dragon asked in disappointment.

"Yes I know there are other more popular sports to choose from, but I choose Soccer," Gamer explained, "Now, Dragon, meet your opposing team, The Mezrin SC!"

Marching onto the field were Gamer's robot drones dressed in soccer uniforms colored blue with gold trims. Dragon spoke up, "SC?"

"Soccer Drones." Gamer answered.

"All right, so where's my team?"

"Oh, you don't have a team."

Dragon looked in disbelief, "You're joking, right?"

"I'm not. It's you vs them."

"I'm at a disadvantage against a whole team!" Dragon called out.

"I thought you liked a challenge." Gamer teased him.

Dragon grumbled about the unfairness, but spoke up, "Very well. Proceed."

"The rules of soccer are simple, the first team or you to reach ten goals win. But just to show how merciful I am I have a drone programmed to serve as your goalkeeper." A drone took a position as goalkeeper by Dragon's net.

"He won't turn on me will he?" Dragon asked suspiciously.

"He won't I promise you."

"I'll hold you to it."

"All right, players take your positions!" Gamer announced, as the Soccer Drones and Dragon took their positions in the center of the field.

When the referee made the call, the game began. Dragon wasted no time in snatching the ball and started kicking it around the drones with the intent on getting to their net. As he kicked the ball around he thought, 'Ok, Spike. You've practiced with Rainbow Dash countless times. You've got this." he kicked the ball hard enough landing it in the drone's net.

"Goal!" the monitor beeped as a number one appeared under Dragon's name.

When they started up again, Dragon was maneuvering around the drones only for the ball to get snatched by one of them. The thief quickly turned around to catch up with the drone while getting past the rest of them. He wasn't fast enough as the drone kicked the ball to Dragon's net. Dragon saw his drone goalkeeper tried to repel the ball, but missed resulting in the Drones earning a point.

Dragon groaned but thought to himself, 'At least my goalkeeper is on my side like Gamer promised. But still I need to really concentrate and pull this one off.'

And so the game continued with Dragon using all his soccer skill and knowledge he learned from Rainbow Dash to his advantage to score goal after goal. However, his opponents being programmed with soccer skills weren't beating around the bush and had been making goals as well. Soon it came down to nine points each. Dragon was getting himself together for the last round, while the drones were ready.

The thief thought to himself, 'All right this is it. Last shot. I have to make this count or it's all over.' he walked onto the field and took his position.

Dragon quickly snatched the ball and started kicking it around while avoiding the drones coming after him. As he got to the net he took a shot, only for his opponents goalkeeper to block it and sent it back to one of the drone players who started kicking it back to Dragon's net. Dragon raced after the player in possession of the ball, but couldn't stop him from making the kick, "No!" he cried only to see his drone ally jump for it and blocked the ball. This brought relief to Dragon seeing he had one last chance, and this time he wasn't going to waste it.

After Dragon took possession of the ball he started kicking it for the opposing teams goal. He maneuvered around his opponents making sure not to lose the ball. He was closing in on the net and threw his leg back before kicking the ball with all his might. The soccer ball went flying forward and was too fast for the drone to block causing the ball to hit the net.

"Goal!" the monitor beeped as Dragon's score moved up to ten points, "Dragon is the winner!"

"Yes!" Dragon cheered, as Gamer appeared on the monitor.

"Congratulations, Dragon. I'm impressed by your soccer skills. Wherever did you learn to play so well?"

"Let's just say I was taught by a friend who's a sports master." Dragon explained, while thinking of Rainbow Dash.

"Well, congratulations for passing Level 4. Only three more to go and you win. Proceed." Gamer instructed before vanishing from the monitor.

Dragon walked off the field and stood before the door, thinking, 'Four levels down. If I can survive three more the crown is mine. Whatever game level is next I need to be ready.' he opened the door.

Back with Byakko, he was escorting Twilight back to her place after showing the rest of the girls back to their own homes. They stopped in front of the girls place, as Twilight spoke, "Well, this is my place. Thanks for walking me back, Byakko."

"My pleasure, Ms. Twilight. Although before we part, if I may ask you something."

"Shoot."

"I noticed since you bumped into me you looked very upset," Byakko noticed, "I've seen enough looks on people to see that look on your face screamed I had a falling out with someone close to me. Am I right?"

Twilight was amazed by Byakko's deduction, and knew it was pointless to try and deny, "Yes, you were right. And it wasn't so much a falling out. I just... I did something stupid."

"Care to talk about it? It will make you feel the weight is off your shoulders."

Twilight sighed and decided to come clean to him, "There's this boy I liked for such a long time, but I couldn't bring myself to tell him my true feelings?"

"Too shy? Or was he seeing someone?"

"Both," Twilight answered, "But also because he's my History teacher. And even if we're the same age a relationship between student and teacher no matter what the age is taboo."

"Logical." Byakko agreed.

"But when I found him making out with an older girl I looked up to as a sister not just because she was married to my brother, I was just crushed. I confronted both about it, but when I confronted my friend I tried to throw myself at him and he rejected me. I felt like such an idiot for what I did!" she scoffed.

"You were still suffering from the revelation of it so you acted out of impulse," Byakko deduced, "People do impulsive things when they're in love and such."

"Well, it doesn't matter now. He probably wouldn't wanna talk to me anyway." Twilight sighed.

"Don't give up hope just yet. I suggest you go back and talk to him and let him know you didn't mean to do it. Otherwise it'll keep on weighing you down and you'll never move on."

Twilight processed all Byakko told her and smiled with confidence, "Thanks, Byakko. And I will tell him tomorrow."

"Good girl." Byakko patted her head, before taking his leave.

Twilight smiled before noticing Cadence's car wasn't parked outside. She sighed, "Cadence is probably out with Spike. Oh, well." she brushed it off and went inside.

When Dragon entered the next room he saw the whole setting looked like a town during a zombie apocalypse, "Ok, this is creepy." Dragon told himself, until Gamer called out to him.

"Welcome to Level 5, where it's a Zombie Apocalypse! This level will play homage to the First Person Shooter type of game. Only you are in the game and not watching from the POV of an avatar."

Dragon sighed, and asked in sarcasm, "Let me guess are my opponents zombies?"

"Precisely. Your objective is to avoid the zombies while safely navigating your way to the safe house located at the edge of the town. Get to there before your health bar runs out and you win," Gamer explained as Dragon looked above seeing his own personal map and health bar on display, "You'll find your weapons on your right."

Dragon looked over seeing a shotgun and a bat. He walked over to the weapons and spoke up, "A gun and a blunt instrument?"

"Yes I felt both would be appropriate," Gamer replied, "The gun is logical since you can shoot a zombie and it slows them down, but the gun only has a limited round of shells. Once used up, the bat will be all you have. So make sure you don't lose that." he chuckled.

Dragon strapped the bat to his back and picked up the shotgun, "Ok, bring on the zombies."

"Good luck." Gamer said, as he ended his transmission.

Dragon looked up at the map and saw the safe house was north, so he followed that direction while keeping his eyes peeled for any trouble. As he made it to the town square, he saw the area looked deserted, until he heard the sounds of moaning. He looked and saw multiple drones that looked like zombies walking around like a zombie does. Upon spotting the thief, they started walking for him.

Dragon started running away, "Good thing they're programmed to walk slow like zombies," he stopped in his tracks when he saw more zombies blocking his path, "But when they're in front of you that's a problem," The zombies started walking for him with their arms out. Dragon held up his shotgun and spoke, "Ok, let's see if this works," he shot one in the head making it explode and the body fell down, "Whoa! I just shot a robot zombie with a real gun... Feels good. But I shouldn't waste too much ammo." He looked around before seeing a lamppost. He smirked and ran towards it. He jumped at it, before launching himself off it and over the zombie drones heads before making a run for it.

From the comfort of another room sat the Gamer who was watching Dragon compete in the level. While watching it, he was also inspecting the ear piece communicator he took off the thief, "This is one swell ear piece. One of my dad's companies used to build these for the military. This one looks very advanced, though. Did one of you ladies build this thing?" he spoke into it, but received no response. He pouted before whining, "Oh, come on! Talk to me!"

Celestia's voice finally spoke through the ear piece, "Harm one hair on my master, and I swear I'll-"

Gamer had cut her off, "There's that word again. What are you women into? What, are you into bondage, domination, some whipping? Does Dragon take you out for a doggie walk while you're in the buff?" he laughed.

Luna's voice came from the ear piece, "That is our business! But we will say this: our master has more luck with women than you ever will in your life!"

"Ouch. Rude much?" Gamer grumbled with his pride hurt, "I suggest you ladies be a little nicer to me or I'll just up the difficulty for the next level...that is if Dragon survives this level." Celestisa and Luna remained silent knowing not to poke the bear any further.

Back in the game, Dragon took a few shots at some zombies blocking his way. He was so caught up in eliminating the ones he could see, he didn't realize one was right behind him. The zombie grabbed Dragon and started squeezing him, "Let go!" Dragon struggled, while noticing his health bar started dropping. He finally broke free of the zombie's hold and snacked it with the back of the shot gun, before running away from it.

He hid behind a bush and panted, "That was too close. I got to get to the safe house before all my health drops," he looked at his shot gun, "And my ammo's half way done. I need to make this count." he got up and went on the move again.

Dragon made it to the edge of town and saw a road stretching on. He looked up at the map seeing the bunker at the end of the road, "This is the right path." he started running down the road surrounded by forest. He kept his eyes peeled all around and listened for any unusual sounds. Just when he thought he was in the clear he looked up ahead seeing a blockade of zombie drones.

"Figures he'd have a battalion of them blocking the path. Better make this shooting count," He readied the shotgun and started shooting at multiple zombies heads putting them out of commission. He was on a roll until the shotgun cocked, "Well, so much for this." he dropped the gun and saw there were still a number of zombie drones coming for him. When he saw there was no other option he did the only thing he could do. He grabbed the bat he was given and let out a war cry before running at the zombies.

He ran through the crowd of zombies bashing them with his bat without even caring that some were grabbing him and draining his health bar. Upon exiting the crowd, Dragon panted before noticing his health bar was almost depleted. He ran from the zombies knowing if he took another hit he was finished.

As he made his way down the road he saw up ahead the safe house. He thought he was home free until he saw five zombie drones guarding it, "I just got to get past them and it's over. But I need to make this count." he ran over and revealed himself, "Hey, fellas! Looking for some brains? Because I got plenty right here!"

The zombie drones started leaving their post and went right for Dragon who bashed them with his bat. When he saw one was coming up right behind him, he swung his bat so hard it knocked the drone's head off, "Better you lose your head than mine!" He was about to bash another drone only for it to grab hold of the bat and the two fought over it. Dragon struggled until he saw the other zombies were right behind the one he was in a deadlock with. He smirked and spoke, "Ok, you can have it." he let go of the bat causing the zombie drone to fall backwards into the other drones knocking them all to the ground.

Dragon ran past them and went inside the safe house and closed the door. He panted while speaking to himself, "Well, after that I think I can manage a zombie apocalypse should it ever happen."

Gamer's voice came on the monitor and spoke, "Congratulations, Dragon. You survived the zombie outbreak. Did it change you in any way?"

"Well, let's just say should a zombie outbreak occur and I survive I think I like my chances of avoiding them." Dragon admitted.

"Good to know. For this next level you won't be doing any running, but rather facing an enemy head on. Proceed and all will be explained." Dragon looked at the door knowing he was almost to the final level. He walked to the door and opened it to level 6.

Dragon looked around seeing the room was dark, "Would it kill you to put some lights on?" he asked, and suddenly the room was illuminated by lights.

The thief looked around seeing the whole room was set up like a martial arts arena surrounded by bleachers. Dragon looked up and saw appearing on a monitor was Gamer who spoke, "Welcome to Level 6, Dragon. You're very skilled to have come this far. But you are going to need more than skill to survive in the arena."

"Get on with the game and rules, Gamer." Dragon answered in boredom.

"Party pooper," Gamer grumbled, "Anyway, ever hear of the game Battle Combat Smash?"

"It's only one of the most popular martial arts fighting game there is." Dragon answered.

"Correct. For this level you will be participating in it. One match against the baddest opponent in the game."

"I got a bad feeling about this." Dragon said to himself.

"Meet your challenger... Malgar!" walking out onto the arena was a buffed up drone that looked like a character from the game. He wore a martial arts outfit as red as blood with a black belt, and had short black hair.

Dragon was concerned until a thought came to him, "You realize just because you can make a robot look like a game character doesn't mean he's like him." he noted.

"Actually I have a copy of the videogame installed in him giving him the same moves and style as the game character. So points for me," Gamer laughed, "Anyway, the two of you will compete in the ring. With every attack you take your health bar will drop. Harder the attack the more health you lose. The one who loses all their health is out. I hope your hand to hand combat skills are as good as your survival skills."

"Top notch." Dragon answered confidently.

"Then good luck." Gamer's face vanished, as the bleachers were suddenly filled with holographic game characters from the martial arts game cheering and applauding.

A drone referee came onto the arena and spoke into a mic, "Welcome challengers to today's match up! In the Red Corner we have the Infamous International Master Thief Dragon!" Dragon stepped forward onto the arena wand waved to the holographic audience, "And in the Blue Corner, your champion of champions, the bringer of slow and painful deaths, Malgar the Destroyer!"

Malgar stared Dragon down before speaking one of his quotes, "You better call 911, get an ambulance, find a doctor, and order a toe tag. Because I'm gonna tear off your head and place it on my wall!" Dragon scowled at his opponent's threat, until the ref stood between them and announced.

"Ready... FIGHT!"

And so dragon fought the drone of Malgar like a real martial arts fight. With every punch and kick Dragon threw at Malgar his health bar dropped a bit due to the drone crossing his arms over his body like a shield, which didn't sit well with the thief, "My moves don't affect him that hard? What a bust!"

He couldn't complain for long, as Malgar started throwing his own set of punches. Like Malgar, Dragon tried dodging some strikes but took a few hits making his health drop. The thief groaned from the strikes and thought, 'So this is what it's like being in the game itself. Still he's just another opponent. And like any opponent, he can be defeated.' Dragon started fighting back.

In the midst of their fist fight, Malgar did a sweep kick to Dragon knocking him onto his back. The thief looked up seeing his opponent was about to stomp his foot onto his stomach. He quickly rolled to the side avoiding the stomp before jumping back to his feet, "All right, Malgar. You may be one of the top fighters in this tournament. But I'll bet you've never tangled with a Master Thief on a mission!" he got into a stance.

"Your head will make a fine victory prize!" Malgar called, as he unleashed an onslaught of punches on Dragon.

The thief shielded himself to avoid taking too big a damage, while retaliating with some strikes of his own. Both fighters health was dropping, and Dragon knew if he was going to win this match he'd need to give it all in his next attack, 'If I time this right it'll work.' he thought.

Malgar tried throwing a punch to Dragon who blocked it and threw him over his shoulder. When Malgar hit the ground his health dropped leaving him with only a bit left. When Malgar got up, Dragon took this chance to finish him. He ran at Malgar delivering an uppercut while shouting, "Shoryuken!" he performed the classic move which depleted what remaining health the drone had.

The drone cried in pain as it hit the floor and shut down. The ref went onto the arena and announced, "The Winner is Dragon!" the holographic audience cheered and applauded, as Dragon waved to them.

"Thank you! Thank you very much!" he called, as the holograms vanished and Gamer appeared on screen.

"Splendid job, Dragon. You've completed six out of the seven challenges I set up for you."

"I know. One more challenge and the crown is mine." Dragon stated.

"If you can stand victorious in the last round." Gamer reminded him, as a door opened to reveal an elevator, "Step into the elevator." Dragon knew it all came down to this. He entered the elevator that closed.

The thief stood patiently as the elevator took him up past a few floors, until it stopped. The doors opened and Dragon stepped out to see he was in a room that looked like it belonged to a game obsessed nerd. Much like the stuff he saw when he entered the mansion there were game posters on the walls, video game character statues, even table dioramas of levels from Super Mario Bros and Kirby Super Star. He saw sitting in a rotating chair was the Gamer himself.

"Dragon, so glad to see you up close and personal," Gamer began, as he held out a tray of little pizza rolls, "Pizza roll?"

Dragon took a pizza roll and ate it, before speaking, "I made it through your little fun house death trap, so let's get this seventh challenge over with."

"No beating around the bush for you, I see. Very well. Right this way," Gamer got up and walked with Dragon following him. They stopped to see two pinball machines back to back, "Behold my favorite pinball game, Space Cosmos."

"I know this game," Dragon admitted, "I played it a lot back when I was younger."

"You have good tastes, my thieving guest. For the seventh game you and I will be competing against one another. First one to lose all their balls loses." Gamer explained.

"Simple enough." Dragon admitted.

"But there's a little catch for you."

"What sort of catch?" Dragon asked suspiciously.

Gamer held up a helmet with a visor, "You need to wear this."

"Ok, why?" the thief asked in confusion.

"This helmet is connected to your game machine. With every ball you lose the helmet will disable one of your senses."

"In what order?"

"That's for you to find out. Just so you know this game is my specialty." Gamer said with a smug expression.

"Oh, yeah? Same as mine." Dragon returned his smug look.

"But let's up th stakes a bit. If you win you get the crown. But if I win I get something of value to you."

"What?" Dragon asked curiously.

"Your freedom."

"My freedom?" the thief asked in confusion.

"That's right. If I win you belong to me."

"What could you possibly want with me? So you can hand me over to the cops and collect their reward?"

"Hardly. You've been quite entertaining tonight with my challenges. I'm looking forward to more performances from you." Gamer smirked.

"Only if you win." Dragon reminded him.

"Then do we have a deal?" Gamer held out his hand.

"Deal." Dragon answered, as they locked fists.

They took their positions, as Dragon placed the helmet on his head. He looked through the visor seeing it was clear enough to see out of. Their games started as both launched their first ball. When they were launched, both combatants were clicking their switches constantly to keep their first balls up trying to aim them at the bumpers to make their scores jump up.

Dragon and Gamer took occasional glances at their opponents score seeing they were neck and neck. Suddenly he miscalculated the ball's movement and it fell past the switches, "No!" he cursed, and suddenly he couldn't hear the sound of the game or anything, just ringing. He thought to himself, 'Looks like this helmet's cut off my sense of hearing. Oh, well at least I won't be able to hear vocal taunting.'

Meanwhile Gamer was actually feeling intimidated as Dragon's score kept rising. He eventually lost his first ball and groaned, "I won't lose at my favorite game!" he started playing harder.

Dragon played at his best even without his sense of hearing, 'As long as I can outlast Gamer I'll be fine,' he scored some more points, but the ball eventually fell bringing him down to his last one. Suddenly his visor went blank, "Hey!"

Gamer hearing him shout smirked, "Without his hearing and sight victory is as good as mine."

'Dammit! Now I can't see or hear,' Dragon thought, 'Calm down, Spike. This isn't the first time you've tried this before. It may not have been so easy back then, but you're older and more experienced now.' Dragon concentrated as he envisioned the layout of the game in his head knowing where every loop, bumper, and switch was. He launched his ball and using his gut instinct and years of practice was actually able to keep the ball up.

Gamer saw Dragon's score go up leaving him in shock, 'There's no way anyone can be that good at pinball without being able to see or hear!' he thought.

The two played, as Dragon remained calm so he could concentrate, while Gamer was getting nervous resulting in him losing his second ball. The video game enthusiast knew he and Dragon were down to one ball each. The pressure started getting to him as he played his last ball determined to keep it from falling. Dragon kept envisioning the game play in his head as he kept knocking the ball up to hit more bumpers. He couldn't tell what his score was, but as long as he was still in the game he wasn't worried.

Both players kept at it, until Gamer lost focus and his last ball fell, "No!" he cried, as 'YOU WIN' flashed on Dragon's game screen.

The visor in Dragon's helmet returned allowing him to see that he won the game. He took the helmet off and cheered, "Yes! I did it!"

Gamer was still in shock before speaking to his opponent, "You...you beat me...you actually beat me."

Dragon nodded, "That I did, Mr. Mezrin. Now you know what so many others have learned when they deal with-" Dragon was cut off as Gamer began to laugh, which turned into a hysterical, tearful laugh. Dragon felt uncomfortable, as he spoke to himself, "Oh, boy. He's cracked. He's gone nuts."

Gamer calmed down and spoke up, "Dragon...I haven't had this much fun in years! No matter how difficult the stage, no matter what challenge you faced in these trials, you managed to pull through! Truly, you are a man who lives for danger!

Dragon shook his head in disbelief, before answering, "You have something I want, Mezrin. Something I've earned."

"Oh yes, Mr. Dragon. Right this way." he showed Dragon to a vault.

He opened it to reveal the room was filled with treasures from gold, diamonds, rubies, paintings, furs, and jewelry. Gamer led Dragon to the crown inside a glass case. He opened the case and presented it to the thief, "For you, Dragon."

Dragon took the crown and inspected it seeing it was the real thing, "Thank you, for being a man of your word," Gamer nodded, as Dragon looked around the vault to see all the valuables, "I got to admit this is quite a haul you have in this vault."

"It belonged to my father, and all those before him. Each one hoarded just to satisfy their egos and greed. I personally have no interest in this stuff, but accepted it because it was in my old man's will," suddenly an idea came to mind, "How would you like to compete for it all? I can whip up some new contests for you. Ones better than the previous ones." he temped the thief.

"As tempting as that sounds, I must decline," Gamer was surprised at Dragon's answer, "All this means nothing to me. The crown I came for is all I desired."

"Are you sure? I can guarantee you the challenges will be even harder and more experiencing." Gamer pleaded.

"My answer is still no. I am a thief after all. Not your personal entertainer." Dragon replied standing firm.

The Gamer complained, "But I'll never have this kind of fun ever again! After tonight it'll just go back to dealing with yes men and running my father's business! I've always wished I was a normal boy who had real friends to play with and not constantly being groomed for a life of business! But you, you're living the kind of life I only dreamed off! Hell, the women that I heard on through that ear piece of yours love you and I bet you can't wait to get back to them, right?"

"I do." Dragon confirmed.

"And you obviously have a life outside stealing, don't you? It's not just those women you want to go back to, right? You have other friends as well?"

"Of course."

Gamer sighed and fell to his knees, "You should go. And those friends of yours, never lose sight of them."

Dragon was speechless about hearing that, remembering how he was worried about losing Twilight. He looked at the retired guy and was afraid this would be Twilight's fate if he didn't make amends with her. But he didn't want that for her, and not for him. He knelt down and offered Gamer his hand.

"For what it's worth, your games gave me what you promised and not the crown alone."

Gamer took the hand and was brought back to his feet, and asked, "What do you mean?"

"Your challenges have made me stronger, faster, more agile than ever. This is the workout I needed. So thank you." Dragon expressed his gratitude.

"Well, you're welcome I guess." Gamer replied.

"And you don't have to be alone."

"I don't?"

"Of course not. I mean look at this place, and look at what you're capable of making. You should open your place up to other game fanatics. Show them your game collections, let them play some classics, make less threatening live games like the ones I was in. Do this and you'll make plenty of young friends and fans who share a common interest with you."

Gamer gasped and asked with hope, "You mean it?"

Dragon nodded, "I do. And if you do this I'll show up as well. You may not know who I'll really be, but I'll guarantee you I'll be there."

Gamer smiled at the idea, and answered, "Thank you so much, Dragon. For a thief, you're not one bad guy." they shook hands.

"Just don't go around telling people that."

"My lips are sealed." Gamer answered, and the two shared a laugh.

Later on at Spike's place, Celestia, Luna, and Cadence were waiting in worry for their master who hadn't responded. When they heard the door open, they turned and saw their master enter looking exhausted.

"Master!" the three ran over and embraced him.

"Are you all right?" Celestia asked in worry.

"What happened there?" Luna inquired.

"You're not hurt are you?" Cadence asked in concern.

"I'm fine, girls. Really I am. I just went through a lot of survival training, but it paid off." Spike held up the crown.

"At least you got it, but what about your transceiver?" Luna asked.

"Recovered along with the rest of my gadgets." Spike assured them.

"Well, at least you made it back." Cadence said in relief.

"Yes. But I need to go back out now."

"What for?" Celestia wondered.

"I have to go talk to Twilight. It's what I should've done."

"We understand." Cadence replied.

"But first I need to shower and change. All those levels made me work up a sweat." Spike said, as he headed for the bathroom.

Later on, Spike had arrived at Twilight's place. He walked up to the door and spoke to himself, "I hope she answers." he knocked on it.

Soon enough the door opens and Twilight stood in the doorway. She looked at Spike in surprise, "Spike?"

"Evening, Twilight. I know it's late, but I really have to talk to you. Can I come in?" he asked hopefully.

Twilight smiled, and answered, "Sure." Spike was relieved, as Twilight showed him inside.

Spike sat on the sofa, as Twilight came in with some hot tea. She took a seat next to him, and the two spoke simultaneously, "Spike/Twilight, I... No you first. I insist." the two knew it was going to get anywhere, so Twilight spoke, "Spike, I want to apologize for what I did today after school. It was selfish and stupid of me. I am so sorry."

"Twilight, I understand. And I don't fault you," Spike calmed her, "I should've told you the truth much sooner, but I was afraid of losing you."

"Losing me?" Twilight asked.

"I lost my parents when I was younger, and I felt I was completely alone. Then I met you and the girls, and I felt that hole left in my heart mend. Like I wasn't alone. But when I found out from Cadence you learned the truth I was afraid you'd hate me for life. I never meant to hurt you like this. Believe me, that's the last thing I ever wanted." Spike explained while opening up.

"I didn't wanna hurt our friendship either," Twilight agreed, "No matter what you will always be my friend, Spike."

"And you will to me." Spike smiled, as the two embraced knowing their friendship would remain as strong as long as they believe.

Meanwhile in an old run down mill, many people were gathering together. They all appeared to be the type of people no one should mess with, not even the police. Byakko was among them, and saw many were giving him weird looks as if trying to scare him. But the swordsman remained strong, as Tirek approached and stood atop a higher level.

The mobster looked down upon them and spoke, "Welcome, friends, enemies, and enemies who pretend to be friends!" Tirek began, as many of the people laughed humorously, "I have gathered before me the top leveled mercenaries and assassins in the world. You are here for one purpose only, and that is to bring me the notorious master thief known as Dragon!" the crowd of mercenaries booed at the thief's name, as Tirek continued, "Yes, yes, I know. We all hate him. His very existence is a mockery to all we stand for. He steals and yet so many out there commend him for it. While it's others like us who are loathed and scorned for what we do. So I am placing my own bounty on Dragon."

"What's the point? The cops have already issued a bounty on him." One mercenary spoke up.

"Ah, but there's a key difference between my offer and the cops," Tirek replied, "The authorities want Dragon brought to them alive, just so that foolish bullheaded Iron Will can expose him and take all the glory for himself! I however shall allow you to bring him to me alive or dead, that's up to you."

"You mean we don't have to hold back on how to do it?" an assassin asked.

"There are no rules." Tirek smirked, as the crowd cheered, "Anyone who is not interested may leave now, but should you go to the cops with this information I will find you and silence you myself," Tirek warned them which was enough to make everyone stay, "Good. I will contact one of you once I've made my decision on who to send first. That'll be all." he left.

When Tirek was gone, the mercenaries and assassins were free to speak freely, "I can't wait till I get my hands on that Dragon." one said.

"You?" another asked, "Please. I'll have that dragon in two shakes of a dogs tail."

Byakko finally spoke up, "The Dragon is mine."

Suddenly all eyes fell on the swordsman as, an assassin spoke, "Well, look who decided to speak up. And here I thought you were just some dumb boy looking lost." he joked prompting the others to laugh with him.

Byakko remained unaffected by the mockery, and spoke, "To all of you he's just another paycheck. For me...it's a chance to defeat an immortal. Don't get me wrong, though. I expect Mr. Tirek to honor his end of the deal."

Another mercenary spoke up in confusion, "An immortal? Really? Next thing you'll tell us that we need chop his head off while making him look at a cross or something." the group laughed again.

Byakko turned to him shooting a serious look in his direction, "Do not take this lightly. The Dragon is notorious for a reason. I have studied him from history and past recorded exploits. He has committed more crimes than any known criminal. And has successfully avoided all forms of the law be it the police, Interpol, the FBI, you name it. Many say it's just another assuming the role after the last one moved on, but I think otherwise. That's why I intent on finding Dragon and show him even an immortal can be beaten."

"That is if Mr. Tirek actually picks you out of everyone here." another warned him.

"I think I'll take my chances." Byakko replied, as he walked away.