The Malevolent Sovereignty of I.M.Meen.by SporeDragonChaptersPrologue.A Labyrinth Reborn.The Cleverest One.Stealing a Pie.Prologue. "It is over, Meen. I have won. The other children are free. And your labyrinth is no more." Said the voice of Scott. Ignatius Mortimer Meen simply scowled, sending an electrical ball his way. "You can't win, bookworm! I, am the most powerful magician in the world! And you're just a little smarty!" Said Meen in a vile tone. He observed Scott. The boys blonde hair was singed, he was badly bruised, and his tan sweatshirt was torn, as well as his jeans. Scott had taken quite a beating in the Labyrinth, and Meen was determined to finish him off. "You've hurt too many other children!" Scott shouted angrily, throwing one of the purple Explode-O Fruits with all his might. I.M.Meen attempted to jump to the side, but Scott's cold, blue eyes pierced his soul and distracted him to the point that Meen couldn't jump to the side. Meen was knocked back, and a scroll fell from his blue coat, landing upon the ground with a soft thud on the clean tile floor of the library. Scott ran towards the scroll as Meen lunged forward. They hit each other head on and struggled over the scroll. Meen made a small fireball in his hand. Smashing it on Scott's foot. The young boy howeled in pain and reeled backwards. Meen picked up the scroll and laughed, charging another ball of fire. "Better luck next time, bookworm! Although there probably won't BE A NEXT TIME! AHAHAHAHAHA!!!!" Meen cried in delight as he raised the flaming ball in his hand. Suddenly, Meen was knocked to the side by none other than Gnorris the Gnome, the traitor to Meen who freed Scott in the first place. Gnorris pried the scroll from Meen's hand and threw it across the room, into a pile of books. "Go! Find the Scroll! Before the guardians catch you!" Gnorris called to Scott over his shoulder. He continued to wrestle with Meen upon the ground. Trying to keep the magician down. Scott stood and saw a Centurion and three Spiders running his way. He quickly stumbled towards the pile of books, shoving each aside frantically in search for the scroll. At last he found it, and stood. A whirling sound warned Scoot, but not in time, as a Gnome's pickaxe tore the scroll from his hands and pinned it on the well. Scott looked over to see the centurion and spiders gaining ground, as well as another gnome who was picking up another pickaxe. Scott quickly reached into his pocket, producing one of the many Fire Wands. He lifted it up and shot fire at his foes, destroying each one. As Scott pried the scroll from the wall he noticed Meen gaining the upper hand over Gnorris. Scott quickly took out his pen and unfurled the scroll, scanning it for grammatical errors, and fixing each one. As he placed the last. Period, he could hear a loud crashing sound beneath them... ....The Labyrinth was destroyed. Once and for all. "Wretched child! YOU'VE RUINED, MY BEAUTIFUL LABYRINTH! NOW YOU'RE GOING TO PAY!!!" Meen gasped out in pure agony. Scott noticed that the gray and white haired wizard seemed utterly deviated. His tan pants were drenched with sweat, and his coat was ruffled and ruined. Gnorris lay still upon the shiny library floor. Meen charged two electrical balls and aimed them to Scott. Scott prepared to end the magician as the electricity flew his way. As soon as he was hit, Scott downed a power potion. And relentlessly fired the Fire Wand at Meen through the smoke from the lightnings impact. Meen took each hit helplessly and collapsed to the floor. Scott walked towards the magician, and put the fire wand against the vile man's head. "Any last words, Meen?" Asked Scott. Who seemed pained to have to end the mans life. Meen breathed deeply as he looked into the boys eyes.... "You may have outsmarted me this time, bookworm..." Meen groaned in pain... "But I'll be back!" He said, waving his hand, causing a cloud of black smoke to envelope him, and he knocked Scott over, weakly standing... "I.M.Meen never quits.... YOU'LL SEE!!!!!" He exclaims as he turns into a human tornado, and dissipates into the still air of the library. "NO" Scott exclaimed as he stood. Meen was gone, he escaped. All his efforts were in vein. These thoughts passed through Scott's mind as he collapsed to his knees, and fell forward onto the ground, closing his eyes..... A Labyrinth Reborn. Ignatius Mortimer Meen sits quietly in his cabin in the mountains of Idaho in the United States of America. It had been nearly three years since that studious little brat Scott had destroyed his labyrinth and sent him into hiding... But Meen had regained his former strength. "Fo'wenne dren k'waga gin'tel fe gue'we dretek duienn gru'shlatak!" Meen said, his words of magic pierced the silence of the wooden cabin in a relentless assault. Meen craftily and carefully waved his hands over a teal-covered book with a green spine. The blank covered book was none other than the Magic Labyrinth of I.M.Meen. Very scary, and confusing, destination of his choosing, Magic Labyrinth of I.M.Meen. The wizard gave a chuckle as he thought of the tune after he had fallen silent himself, near so as much as the old log structure around him. It wasn't impressive, a simple door, a window, fireplace, and many shelves holding magical objects. There was also a large chest against the wall containing his spare clothing, although he rarely ever changed his outfit. Meen frowned as he fell into a painful remembrance of what his labyrinth used to be. This time, he created it without the help of Gnick, Gnorbert, and the other Gnomes. Gnorris the traitor was now kept in the very cage that held Scott once upon a time. Meen knew with the advances in technology these days, his magic would be less efficient, but he aimed to bring the time of wizardry back around. He stood and pressed his hands against his old back, making it pop and crackle. He spied a picture of Ophelia Chill upon his mantle piece. The old lady was executed long ago for attempting to assassinate the president with lightning. Foolish old woman she was. ——————————————————————————————————————— ~Two hours later~ Meen walked through the town in his normal attire, not caring what these snooty modern goody-goodies thought of him. He looked left and right at the small town. Few buildings were two stories or more, most were small houses and businesses. He then noticed the one notable building in the area, the local library. Oh how Ignatius loathed that word.... Libraries meant books. Books meant knowledge. Knowledge meant clever children. And clever children meant that wizardry would never come back. Through relenting Meen decided to enter the rancid building anyway. He immediately walked to the non-fiction section. Frowning that the books on magic were moved to the fiction section. He then noticed something that wasn't in the library a year ago... Computers. Meen hated these almost as much as libraries. Too much knowledge for little smarties. He casually walked over to one. Eyeing the monitor that a young boy was using. He was on a website with a title, "YouTube" watching a video containing brightly colored ponies who seemed very happy and content with their lives. Meen used a bit of magic spot tap into the headphones of the boy and listen to what he heard. The boy clicked on another video in the sidebar titled, "My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic Season 2 Episode 14" Meen stood intently by, surprised nobody else noticed him standing there. He listened as the the video buffered and began... "My Little Pony, My Little Pony.... Ahhhhhhahhhhhhahhhhhahhhhh My Little Pony "I used to wonder what friendship could be.." My Little Pony "Until you all shared its magic with me.." Meen reversed the spell, tuning out of the earphones. He had heard enough... A land of colorful smart horses. Perfect. Meen quickly left the computer library and hastily walked home. He then sat by his book. He opened it and got sucked inside. Meen appeared within his labyrinth, in one of the cells on the first floor. He unlocked the door with a magical key and stepped out of it, being sure to lock it behind him. Meen made sure that scrolls weren't protecting his labyrinth's energy plants any more, but instead traps, puzzles. And twice the number of monsters. As Meen walked, the many gnomes he had guarding the place smiled at him and greeted him. Meen approached a cell. "Why hello, Gnorris." Meen said to the caged gnome "Go away, boss." Said Gnorries, without even turning his head. "I may yet give you a chance at redemption." Said Meen to the Gnome. Gnorris looked up at the blue garbed wizard. In turn Meen observed the gnome. The fat little man in his green coat and tan pants was unlike the other gnomes. Uglier perhaps with that purple cap resting upon the ugly face. And his need to always wear a scarf. Meen opened the door. "Come." Said Meen. Gnorris stood and stepped out of the cage. Meen closed it behind him and relocked it. He then teleported himself and the gnome out of the dark sewer dungeon. They soon were back in the little cabin in the woods. I.m.meen set the book on a pedestal, taking out a scroll and beginning to write on it. "Now, Gnorris, I need you to go to town and buy me a small TV, a DVD player, and a copy of My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic box set." Said Meen. Gnorris seemed completely confused. "B-boss?" Asks Gnorris in shock. "Go, before I turn you into a warthog." Said Meen over his shoulder. Gnorris unsurely saluted Meen and left the cabin with a bag of cash. Meen continued to write. Gnick, Have your boys up and ready to work in an hour. The labyrinth will be needing some inside improvements of your expertise and I believe you will be able to perfect them. The labyrinth will soon be housing little smarties very different from the last bunch and I'll need you and your boys to change a few things for me. They are as follows: 1. Add extra shackles In the cages for wings. 2. Use the included spell to protect the cell doors from magic. 3. Add extra iron braces Convert the iron bars to reinforced steel. 4. Lessen the number of torches in the cell area on Levels 1, 2, 3, and 5. 6. Find my lost copy of Meen: Space Marine. Remember to try and hide those nasty fire wands and power potions better this time . - Big M. Meen rolled up the scroll and slipped it into the book along with another scroll containing magical words. They disappeared instantly. He then sat back in his armchair and awaited Gnorris's return. ——————————————————————————————————————— ~One Hour Later~ Meen woke with a start at a loud knocking and he snapped his gaze to the wall clock. He had fallen asleep for an hour! And some one was at the door. He quickly stood and opened the door, revealing Gnorris, who had a wheelbarrow next to him, which had a TV box, a CD player-radio combo box, and a box set of all three seasons of My Little Pony: FriendShip is Magic. "Thank you, Gnorris!" Meen said cheerfully, knowing now there was a use for the power sockets in his cabin. He opened up the TV box and placed the small television set on the corner desk. Inside the box was a smaller box saying, "Digital Converter Box, can't watch TV without it!". Meen frowned as he attached it to the TV, and moved to the CD Player. He opened this box and messed with the cords until he picked the instruction book up in frustration. He read which cords go where and how it works, how the remote works, everything. He eventually had it all ready and turned on the TV. He opened the My Little Pony box and took out one of season 1's discs. He slid it into the thing and messed with the side of the TV until he found the CD players channel, which was three. A bright, colorful home menu appeared displaying lots of colorful ponies. He hit a random episode and sat back, watching it. "Boss?" Inquired Gnorris around two minutes into the show, "why are we watching this little girls' show?" Gnorris asked as he plumped down onto the floor. "Just wait, Gnorris." Said Meen impotently. Around ten minutes later Meen stood up and grabbed his book, opening it away from him and setting it down on top of the television, pages down. He smiled as he turned to Gnorris. "Place your hand on the TV" he said gesturing to it. Gnorris did as he was told, and Meen put his other hand on the opposite side of the TV. Meen started saying a few magic words loudly, and suddenly the TV began to flash from color to static and back again very quickly. Meen smiled, it was working. He felt a powerful suction and, eventually, Him and Gnorris were sucked into the labyrinth in a bright flash of light. The TV was left static. ——————————————————————————————————————— In a similar flash of light, Meen and Gnorris appeared in a colorful forest. Meen had the book in the crook of his arm. "Yes! It worked!" He ecstatically cried as he danced around. "Where are we boss?" Asked Gnorris, looking around. "Where you paying no attention you fat oaf?" Meen scorned as he waved his hand, "we're in Equestria, home of those clever goodie-goodie ponies." He said with a wicked grin. He waved his hands and made two large cloaks appear, "we must fit in," he said as he handed one to Gnorris and put the other one on, falling to his hands and knees, making himself look almost like a hooded beast. Gnorris did the same. "This will be a slow going process right now, Gnorris. But it will be worth it once we're done." He assured as they stepped onto a path, there was a sign that said "Ponyville, right, One Mile." Meen turned to look at Gnorris through the cloak. It was the kind you could see out of, not into, and he also added it to make it look like they had snouts and ears, even tails stuck out the back of their cloaked and gloves and shoes that looked like hooves adorned their respective appendages. "First we find the library, then we find that studious little brat Twilight Sparkle." Says Meen, remembering the name clear as day. Gnorris nods. They waddle clumsily towards Ponyville, the magic labyrinth tied carefully to Meen's chest. The Cleverest One. Ignatius and Gnorris had been walking for some time as they spoke of many things, of shoes and ships and sealing wax, of cabbages and kings. They weren't sure exactly how their plan was going to go down once they found the town. They decided to cross that bridge when they came to it. Coincidentally, they were crossing a bridge at that very moment. They continued on until they came upon a small hut. Although by hut, it really was a large gnarled tree with a door and windows. They silently approached it and peered inside. It was empty save a large cauldron and many shelves of exotic things. Meen made a mental note of this place. They were startled by a voice coming from behind. "May I help you?" Meen and Gnorris turned around to see a zebra. She had a Mohawk formed mane and gold bands on her neck and left forehoof. "Oh no, bookwo- uhm- friend, my friend and I here are just passing through." Says Meen as they turn back to the road and continue on. "I see you're making haste as you pass by. I only ask on your return, that you stop and say 'Hi," says the zebra, waving the pair of hooded ponies as they walk away quickly. "Why didn't you trap her in your book, boss?" Gnorris asked, his legs beginning to grow uncomfortable. "She was speaking in rhyme you dope, she likely isn't very smart." Meen responded as they continued on their way. Zecora eyes them suspiciously as they carried on. Something did not quite sit right in her gut about the two. For one, the tail of one was falling off. She shrugged this off and decided it was probably a tail wig, that one did sound quite old and his tail was probably embarrassingly thin. "Boss, your tail is loose." Said Gnorris, who had fell a few paces behind. "Well normally I would chastise you for falling behind, slowpoke, but thanks." Said Meen with a laugh as he adjusted it with his hand, before returning it to his hoof looking glove shoe thing. "Boss, won't it be easier to turn us into ponies instead of these uncomfortable disguises, I can't feel my legs." Said Gnorris as he sat down, his cloak sliding off. He began to rub his sore legs. "Gnorris, you oaf! Get off the road if you're going to reveal yourself." Said Meen, hopping into the bushes. Gnorris stood and followed. Meen shed his own disguise, and stood up, his hands moving to pop his back. He still had the tail and everything attached, "But perhaps you're right. I am much too old to be crawling around like an animal. Why not look like one instead? He added with a menacing laugh. He waved his hands over himself and then was covered in a cloud of smoke. "How do I look? Wait, don't tell me." Meen said as he magically made a mirror appear in front of himself. He was a dark blue unicorn with white mane that mostly looked like his natural form. His tail was also white, but much more normal looking. He noticed something odd. He had a picture on his rear. He was about to say something about it but then remembered all ponies here do. He examined it. It wasn't anything special. It was only an open book. His left earring still stayed from his human form. "Now for you." He said turning to Gnorris. His horn began to glow, and the Gnome began to change. Poof! "Now let me see," Gnorris said as he used a hoof to turn the mirror. He was a forest green earth pony with an orange ginger style mane. He frowned. Sure he wasn't good looking in the first place, but is would have to do. He was still wearing his scarf and purple hat. Gnorris turned to observe his mark as well. It was the crystal orb. Meen used his magic to make the clothing disguises disappear, save the cloak. He used his magic then to fix the cloak to himself and the other to Gnorris. They re-met the road and continued. They had reached the edge of the forest. There, they saw a small cottage with a grass roof. It wasn't of a very regular shape. And had many windows and bird houses. It seems like the type Snow White would live in. I've seen bigger hobbit homes, Meen thought as they walked up to the door. He gave it a quick rap with his hoof. The door cracked open slightly and a butter yellow head with a long, pink mane flowed out. "Hello, pony." Said Meen in his fake friendly voice. "M-may I help you?" She said weakly. "Could you direct us to the nearest library?" Meen asked, leaning closer with a slightly creepy smile. The pony pulled her head back a bit. "Oh.. Uhm.. It's... In..*incoherent mumbling*" She said. "Come again?" Meen asked. The pony squeaked slightly. "It's in p-Ponyville, right th-there," she said, pointing to a nearby town who's view was obscured before. "Thank you." Meen said, turning around and walking back to the road. "Thank you, Fluttershy." Said Gnorris too. Oops. Fluttershy squealed and ran back inside, closing the door. "You ignorant nincompoop!" Meen scolded. "We aren't supposed to know anybody! Come now, keep your mouth shut." He said as he face hoofed and turned back to the town, and continued walked. Gnorris followed as well. Fluttershy looked out her window slightly. How did they know her? Was she the target of a secret agency plot? Was she in trouble with the royal guard? Her worried thoughts were endless. They soon arrived at the edge of the town of PonyVille. Its colorful buildings and even more colorful residents didn't seem to pay them any need, much to Meen's relief. Meen looked to Gnorris, and motioned his head sideways. Meen had kept the , book in the cloak tied to his back instead of his chest. The plan flowed flawlessly as the pair of shapeshifted humans made their way through town. Meen eyes the white buildings with their fancy style and straw homes. They passed a fancy looking bakery with a sign labeled 'Sugarcube Corner', it sounded like an interesting place and Meen decided they should stop by. He turned into it and Gnorris almost tripped himself as he turned as well, stumbling over his new hooves. They entered the building. Meen looked about, there were tables all about, and a counter with shelves that displayed many cakes and other fine things. He went forward to take a look. "Would you look at these, boss, they look delicious." Said Gnorris, who was standing there as well. "Yes, too bad we haven't the money to get any." Meen said with a shrug. He turned around to see a bright pink face and happy teal eyes mere millimeters from his. "NO PROBLEM!" Exclaimed the pink pony without warning. Meen gave a surprised shout and nearly fell over from the shock and Gnorris merely flinched and turned around. "I'm Pinky Pie! I've never met YOU before!" She said in what Meen understood as a highly pitched irritating, grating, and mentally assaulting voice, she began hopping around them. "We're going to be best friends! What're your names? WHAT'RE YOUR NAMES?" She said with an ever present smile. Meen found none of this amusing, but all of it irritating. Gnorris smiled. "I am Gnorris, nice to meet you." He said, helping the boss up. "I am I.M.Meen." Said Meen as he stood, brushing his cloak off. "Are you a librarian?" The bubbly pony asked, her curly pink mane bouncing along with her steps. She was looking at Meen's rear. Meen was about to say something about her staring at his flank but realized that's probably customary around here. "No, but I am a magician." Meen said, then adding his customary, "I, am the most POWERFUL, magician in the world!" He said, standing on his hind hooves and waving his hands in an arc over his head, making a whooshing sound. Gnorris sighed. "Oh I doubt that!" Said the excitable pink pony, "I bet Twilight it more powerfully - powerful than you!" She said. Meen grew cross. "We'll see about that." He said, turning to go. "Wait! Here, free samples!" Pinkie pie said as she handed them each a muffin. "Come again!" She said as they left. They smiled and left, eating the muffins as they went. "She was nice," said Gnorris. "I suppose." Said Meen. "You're not rethinking taking this place over are you?" "No." Gnorris sighed. He wishes Meen wasn't so stubborn and that he would lighten up and be a nice guy, but he knew well that Meen's lust for power would be his undoing, just like the last time. Gnorris wasn't yet sure if he was going to betray the boss a second time. Before Gnorris could think much longer, they turned a corner and spotted a large tree which was converted into a building. "There it is!" Meen said, walking forward. Gnorris followed as well. Nearer and nearer they drew to the door, when suddenly..... WHAM!!! Gnorris was knocked over by a flash of gray and blonde matter. He helplessly rolled alongside the pony who had just crashed into him. Meen stopped moving, and slowly turned his head with a dramatic look of frustration upon his face. "Get off of me, please!" Gnorris said, trying to get the Pegasus off of himself. "Sorry, sir, I don't know what went wrong, I was just flying and suddenly, poof! You were in the way!" Said the pony. "I WAS IN THE WAY?!!?!?!" Exclaimed Gnorris in disbelief, pushing the gray mare off. He then softened up when he realized her eyes were a little googoly. The pony frowned and tried to take off. Spinning directly upward. "Gnorris, are you finished playing 'Knight in Shining Armor?', yet?" Meen said impatiently, tapping his foot. Gnorris sighed and they went to the door, Meen struggled a bit, not sure how to use hooves, and managed to open it. They stepped inside. Once inside Meen examined the place. It was a wooden rotunda with bookshelves everywhere and a table smack in the center. This library was neater than the ones back home. They spotted a lavender unicorn with a two toned dark blue and purple mane, standing alone facing a shelf. "Well well." Said Meen with a smile, approaching the unicorn, whom he knew instantly was Twilight Sparkle. She turned around at the voice and smiled awkwardly. "Oh, hello, welcome!" She said in a classic librarian manner, "I'm Twilight Spar-" "We know who you are." Said Meen, cutting her off. "What brings you here?" She asks, sitting at the table. "I traveled far from......" Meen said, pausing to look at a world map, he only glanced at it for a brief second before saying, "Constantineighble, I wanted you to see this for me, and tell me if it is any good." He said, reaching to his back, under his cloak and pulling out the book, barely balancing it on his hoof. "Well, I'm flattered that you came to me, but I'm sure there are better librarians." She said, sliding the book over to herself. "Oh, no, miss Sparkle. I've heard many times that you're the cleverest bookworm in all of Equestria." He said with a friendly smile. She gave an unsure smile. "Well, we don't normally use the term, 'bookworm' to identify smart ponies around here, but, you're from out of town after all.." She said, going to open the book. Meen smiled deviously and Gnorris simply pretended to not pay attention. "Twilight!" Came a male voice from upstairs, which thereafter wandered from a baby dragon. "Yes, spike?" She asked. "Fluttershy just sent me a message tied to a birds leg.. She said two scary stallions wandered by her house asking this way. She said they knew her name and she had never seen them before." Said spike. Then eyeing the two stallions. "Well, I'm sure we can go out and meet them soon. Let me finish business here, and I'll be right out." She said. Meen gave a quiet sigh of relief. Spike nodded and headed outside, "so lets see.." Twilight said, opening the book. ..... Meen looked at Gnorris confused, who looked back and shrugged. The book hadn't sucked her in. "These pages are blank, what's going on?" Said Twilight, looking up suspiciously. Meen quickly reached forward and tapped the book with his hoof. It began to shake and leapt off the table, facing open towards twilight. "Wait, what is this!?!?!", She said, beginning to feel herself being pulled towards the book. "What's the matter smarty? Confused?" Meen said, rubbing his forehooves together deviously. Twilight attempted to scream, but she was already sucked inside instead. To the most unpleasant place she's ever seen. The Magic Labyrinth of I.M.Meen. Stealing a Pie...... An unknown instrument emanates as if from nowhere, it echoed through the library relentlessly as Ignatius Mortimer Meen picks up the rhythm with his feet. He eyes wearily at the five photos of Applejack, Rarity, Pinky Pie, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash. "Oh look, what clever ponies. See them happy? Watch them careless? How I HATE these colorful ponies. How they make my stomach turn." He sang out loud, swiping the pictures off the desk where they stand. They clatter to the floor, the frames breaking and the glass shattering, Meen began to dance about the room, continuing to sing... "I've got a little secret, that'll really make 'em cry! It's a nasty kind of magic... From a 'special' kind of guy." He melodically verbalized. He took a moment to continue his mad dance as the magical music continued to play, he held his book high in the air and continued, "This book is made to order, but it isn't to be read. When they open up this book, they're sucked inside instead, to the most unpleasant place they've ever seen: The magic labyrinth of I.M.Meen! Very scary, and confusing, destination of MY choosing! Magic labyrinth of I.M.Meeeehehehehehehehn! AHAHAHAHAHA!" He finished. Unable to complete the statement without his unjust laughter. Gnorris, who was tapping his foot impatiently, glared at Meen. "Are you finished?" He asked, tiredly, having heard this same tune, or variations of it, far too many times, and grew incredulously weary of it. Meen laughed once more and nodded his head. He picked up the scattered photos and looked through them. "If these five little ponies are Twilight's friends.... Then they might be smart, so we should capture them, too." Meen said, laying out each of the pictures, there was even a picture of twilight nearby, so he took that, and made a magical stamp hit the picture with a large, red X. The picture then moved to be tacked into the wall. "The cleverest one is down. Who should we go after next?" He asked. Gnorris walked up and looked at the pictures. "Wouldn't it be better if we put these around somewhere where nobody could see them if they walked in? Because if they start noticing ponies going missing, and see these, they'll get very suspicious." Gnorris suggested. "A novel idea." Meen stated, wondering why that had never crossed his mind, perhaps it was because he was used to living where no one could find him. He scooped up all the stuff and carried it upstairs with his magic. Gnorris followed as they made their way to the top of the steps and through the single door. Meen smiled, perfect. With a nearby ink pot and quill, he inscribed' "Do not enter." Onto a piece of paper and put it on the outside of the door, for higher security. He couldn't logically get one of his guardians out here to protect the door. He noticed the room had a bed and a dog bed. He kicked the dog bed across the room and out of the way. He disliked the blue, night sky printed comforter on the bed, but it would have to do. This library provided a central location which made an optimal control point. He laid down on the bed and sorted the pictures in alphabetical order, setting Twilight's aside, since she was already taken care of. He pinned hers to the wall. "Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinky Pie, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity." Meen stated, as he listed out his objectives in the order they were now laid upon the bed, "I don't think we should nab each in alphabetical order, someone might see a pattern as their precious elements go missing, I think we should randomize, what say you?" Meen asks without looking up. "Boss! Look at this neat globe!" Gnorris said, spinning the world of Equestria around in circles and looking over the planet's spherical representation. Meen sighed, continuing his point, after he had looked up and back down. "Stay focused, you miserable warthog, or I'll make you into a real warthog." Meen threatened, before saying, "Fluttershy would be a wise choice, since she already suspects something, but Pinkie Pie might be the fir-" "Woah! Boss! Look at this!" Gnorris called from a side door, interrupting Meen, "There's an entire observatory in here!" He called out. Meen growled, using his magic to turn the previously unlucky dog bed over, and furthermore planting Gnorris firmly in it. "You are beginning to annoy me." Meen scorned. Gnorris shrunk down a little and nodded apologetically, "Now, what was I saying you fool?" He asks. "Something about Flutterpie and Pinkie Shy?" He asked. Meen lifted an eyebrow, and Gnorris corrected himself on the spot, "Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie." Meen shook his head and stood up off the bed. "I'll just do it myself, you stay here, and if that lizard comes back, keep. Him. Downstairs." Meen said impatiently, taking the book and heading downstairs, calling up, "And if he asks about Twilight, tell him we went for a walk." He called, putting the book under his cloak and heading out the door, realizing his magic worked here as it did at home. He squinted at the bright sunlight that still graced the land with all it's glory. Meen headed back in the direction of Sugarcube Corner. As he walked he considered what Gnorris had said about changing his mind. He blew off the thought without a second more. He failed on Earth. He wasn't going to fail here. He headed across the plaza towards the building with an innocent air. He passed by three small fillies riding around on a scooter-pulled cart. He scoffed as he hopped to the side of the speeding wagon, wondering if that was even legal. He shrugged it off as he entered the building, seeing it was not as empty as it had been only hours before. There were small crowds gathered at each table, each eating various things and laughing, generally having a good time. This was not going to be a piece of cake... Or rather, pie. He walked forward, eyeing his three sixty, as to make sure the bouncy pink pony wouldn't sneak up on him a second time. He gave a relieved exhale as he saw her already busy. He flipped up the cloak hood and sat in the corner, nopony really saw him, so he could sit there for a while and plot the downfall of Pinkie Pie. After a while, he got his plan. It was perfectly simple, wait for closing time.. He moved outside without a sound and sat under a nearby tree. He then got an idea and moved around the back of the building, where he spotted a small mass of bushes. He took out the book and sat in the bush, he tapped it, and opened it, getting sucked inside. But due to its clever magic, the book routed him to a different room, other than the prisons. ______________________________ He appeared at the end of the labyrinth, which was the portion modeled after a library. This is where that studious little brat had defeated him long ago, and it still smelt of burnt troll. He decided to walk around and check upon the guardians. He left the first room and went down to the others, checking to make sure each monster and troll was in line. He checked each spot where he knew items to be hidden, and was disappointed to find they all remain. He shrugged it off as nothing and continued along through the labyrinth. Going through every level and section, finding everything to be mostly satisfactory. He stopped a moment to talk to Gnick and his crew, who were replacing a few walls on level 15, they had even remembered to patch up the holes that had been there for so long, revealing hidden items. Eventually he approached the portal to the dungeon level. He took a deep breath, hoping everything down here would be in order. He reversed the spell and regained his natural form. He went through the portal, going into the dungeon. And seeing all was well. Meen moved to the very first floor, and approached the first cell, he smiled, "Hello, bookworm." Said Meen upon seeing Twilight Sparkle in the cell. Her fore and hind legs were chained to the wall, and her horn was holding her head back, as a black shroud of canceling magic surrounded it. She turned her head as much as she could as Meen entered the cell and stood before her. "Who are you?" She asked. "Are you that daft, you studious little brat?" Meen said as he snapped his fingers. A mirror appeared beside him, showing the reflection of his pony form, "I am I.M.Meen, the most powerful magician in the world!" He said in a way much like he had told Pinky Pie. He snapped his fingers again and the mirror vanished. Twilight seemed shocked, wondering how in Equestria a human, much less and evil human, managed to sneak unnoticed into the land, and capture her? The unicorn with the most not bragged about potential? Twilight friggin Sparkle? "What do you want from me." She asked, looking crossly at him. Meen picked up a small knife from the wall and looked at her, she gulped. "I want nothing from you, Twilight Sparkle." He said as he snapped his fingers again, making a small cake appear. He cut a slice and stuffed the entirety into his mouth. He cut another, and put it on a plate, which he put in reach of her muzzle, "And for the time being, I care not for you to be harmed, bookworm." He said, turning for the exit. "You won't win, Meen, my friends can out match you! As long as they have each other." She says to him. Meen releases a sinister laugh... "That is why you will see them all appear down here. One. By. One." He said, leaving the cell. "THIS ISN'T OVER, MEEN!" She yelled after him, trying her magic once more, only for It to once more fail. Meen chuckled and said quietly to himself, "Oh, but it has just begun." ________________________________ Meen appeared once more outside, in the bush he had sat in previously. It was darkening outside, for it had taken him a few good hours to walk the labyrinth. He saw that other than a few stupid adolescents, some drunks, and other late nighters, the town was asleep. He walked back to Sugarcube Corner to collect the next pony. He chuckled as he found the door unlocked. This town was far too trusting. He crept quietly inside and closed the farmhouse style door behind himself. It was dark inside and equally lifeless. He climbed over the counter, and crept towards the stairs, he quickly remembered something. He wasn't back in pony form... Oh well, anyone who claims to have seen a human would probably be dubbed crazy. Meen had reached the top of the stairs, seeing four doors. He snuck along the silent floor in the dark of the hallway. He peered in the first door. A bathroom. He stepped to the second, and cracked it open, he peered inside and saw two older ponies sleeping soundly, presumably the owners of this joint. He closed the door and moved to the next, it was a babies' room, with two cribs, each housing a sleeping baby pony. He smiled and closed the door extra quiet, and moved to the final room. He opened the door and stepped inside, seeing Pinkie Pie lying fast asleep, snoring loudly. Creeping up carefully, Meen set his book down and tapped it, touching it to the pink mare. Nothing. He looked at it and remembered she had to open it. How could he forget? It, after all was his own labyrinth. He set it on her exposed stomach and whispered into her ear, "Pinkie, open the book for uh.. a ...uh... A Magical Cupcake Journey to the Far Off Land of Gingerbread." He whispered, perhaps paving away for another story. Pinkie, in her sleep, muttered something about needing to lose weight, and opened the book. She was silently pulled inside. And Meen smiled happily, closing it, and saying, "Sweet dreams, Pinkie Pie," ______________________________ It was at least midnight as Meen walked towards the library, barely a pony was out now, save a few thugs who were clearly the victims of constant late night partying. They spotted him, and look to each other, before approaching the dark blue unicorn. They surrounded him with a semi circle, blocking him from his destination. "Hey old man, what's with the book? Is it your little old lady diary?" The biggest one asks, puffing his chest up to him, and stuffing his face towards Meen. Meen, in turn, snorted and backed up a few paces. "I suggest you back off, oh bumbling oaf." Meen warned the big brown earth pony. All of the stallions laughed. The stallion stepped forward and shoved him forward a few paces. Meen growled. "Get back, you! Before I turn you unto a chipmunk!" He threatened one last time, charging his magic. They all continued to laugh. Meen just smiled, casting his magic. In three seconds, the teenage stallion was reduced to a small chipmunk. The others jumped back in surprise, turned, and ran. One mare returned for a second, picked up the chipmunk, and been to run again. Meen laughed as he went back to the library. Once inside, Meen locked the door behind himself, and trotted upstairs. He opened the door to find Gnorris fast asleep... On the bed, instead of the dog bed like Meen had thought he had instructed. Meen only sighed and smiled, shaking his head, he set the book down, amongst other books, as to hide it. He moved to where a few cushions sat on a window seat, and lied down, hoping for an easy day of conquering on his second day in Equestria.
Prologue. "It is over, Meen. I have won. The other children are free. And your labyrinth is no more." Said the voice of Scott. Ignatius Mortimer Meen simply scowled, sending an electrical ball his way. "You can't win, bookworm! I, am the most powerful magician in the world! And you're just a little smarty!" Said Meen in a vile tone. He observed Scott. The boys blonde hair was singed, he was badly bruised, and his tan sweatshirt was torn, as well as his jeans. Scott had taken quite a beating in the Labyrinth, and Meen was determined to finish him off. "You've hurt too many other children!" Scott shouted angrily, throwing one of the purple Explode-O Fruits with all his might. I.M.Meen attempted to jump to the side, but Scott's cold, blue eyes pierced his soul and distracted him to the point that Meen couldn't jump to the side. Meen was knocked back, and a scroll fell from his blue coat, landing upon the ground with a soft thud on the clean tile floor of the library. Scott ran towards the scroll as Meen lunged forward. They hit each other head on and struggled over the scroll. Meen made a small fireball in his hand. Smashing it on Scott's foot. The young boy howeled in pain and reeled backwards. Meen picked up the scroll and laughed, charging another ball of fire. "Better luck next time, bookworm! Although there probably won't BE A NEXT TIME! AHAHAHAHAHA!!!!" Meen cried in delight as he raised the flaming ball in his hand. Suddenly, Meen was knocked to the side by none other than Gnorris the Gnome, the traitor to Meen who freed Scott in the first place. Gnorris pried the scroll from Meen's hand and threw it across the room, into a pile of books. "Go! Find the Scroll! Before the guardians catch you!" Gnorris called to Scott over his shoulder. He continued to wrestle with Meen upon the ground. Trying to keep the magician down. Scott stood and saw a Centurion and three Spiders running his way. He quickly stumbled towards the pile of books, shoving each aside frantically in search for the scroll. At last he found it, and stood. A whirling sound warned Scoot, but not in time, as a Gnome's pickaxe tore the scroll from his hands and pinned it on the well. Scott looked over to see the centurion and spiders gaining ground, as well as another gnome who was picking up another pickaxe. Scott quickly reached into his pocket, producing one of the many Fire Wands. He lifted it up and shot fire at his foes, destroying each one. As Scott pried the scroll from the wall he noticed Meen gaining the upper hand over Gnorris. Scott quickly took out his pen and unfurled the scroll, scanning it for grammatical errors, and fixing each one. As he placed the last. Period, he could hear a loud crashing sound beneath them... ....The Labyrinth was destroyed. Once and for all. "Wretched child! YOU'VE RUINED, MY BEAUTIFUL LABYRINTH! NOW YOU'RE GOING TO PAY!!!" Meen gasped out in pure agony. Scott noticed that the gray and white haired wizard seemed utterly deviated. His tan pants were drenched with sweat, and his coat was ruffled and ruined. Gnorris lay still upon the shiny library floor. Meen charged two electrical balls and aimed them to Scott. Scott prepared to end the magician as the electricity flew his way. As soon as he was hit, Scott downed a power potion. And relentlessly fired the Fire Wand at Meen through the smoke from the lightnings impact. Meen took each hit helplessly and collapsed to the floor. Scott walked towards the magician, and put the fire wand against the vile man's head. "Any last words, Meen?" Asked Scott. Who seemed pained to have to end the mans life. Meen breathed deeply as he looked into the boys eyes.... "You may have outsmarted me this time, bookworm..." Meen groaned in pain... "But I'll be back!" He said, waving his hand, causing a cloud of black smoke to envelope him, and he knocked Scott over, weakly standing... "I.M.Meen never quits.... YOU'LL SEE!!!!!" He exclaims as he turns into a human tornado, and dissipates into the still air of the library. "NO" Scott exclaimed as he stood. Meen was gone, he escaped. All his efforts were in vein. These thoughts passed through Scott's mind as he collapsed to his knees, and fell forward onto the ground, closing his eyes.....
A Labyrinth Reborn. Ignatius Mortimer Meen sits quietly in his cabin in the mountains of Idaho in the United States of America. It had been nearly three years since that studious little brat Scott had destroyed his labyrinth and sent him into hiding... But Meen had regained his former strength. "Fo'wenne dren k'waga gin'tel fe gue'we dretek duienn gru'shlatak!" Meen said, his words of magic pierced the silence of the wooden cabin in a relentless assault. Meen craftily and carefully waved his hands over a teal-covered book with a green spine. The blank covered book was none other than the Magic Labyrinth of I.M.Meen. Very scary, and confusing, destination of his choosing, Magic Labyrinth of I.M.Meen. The wizard gave a chuckle as he thought of the tune after he had fallen silent himself, near so as much as the old log structure around him. It wasn't impressive, a simple door, a window, fireplace, and many shelves holding magical objects. There was also a large chest against the wall containing his spare clothing, although he rarely ever changed his outfit. Meen frowned as he fell into a painful remembrance of what his labyrinth used to be. This time, he created it without the help of Gnick, Gnorbert, and the other Gnomes. Gnorris the traitor was now kept in the very cage that held Scott once upon a time. Meen knew with the advances in technology these days, his magic would be less efficient, but he aimed to bring the time of wizardry back around. He stood and pressed his hands against his old back, making it pop and crackle. He spied a picture of Ophelia Chill upon his mantle piece. The old lady was executed long ago for attempting to assassinate the president with lightning. Foolish old woman she was. ——————————————————————————————————————— ~Two hours later~ Meen walked through the town in his normal attire, not caring what these snooty modern goody-goodies thought of him. He looked left and right at the small town. Few buildings were two stories or more, most were small houses and businesses. He then noticed the one notable building in the area, the local library. Oh how Ignatius loathed that word.... Libraries meant books. Books meant knowledge. Knowledge meant clever children. And clever children meant that wizardry would never come back. Through relenting Meen decided to enter the rancid building anyway. He immediately walked to the non-fiction section. Frowning that the books on magic were moved to the fiction section. He then noticed something that wasn't in the library a year ago... Computers. Meen hated these almost as much as libraries. Too much knowledge for little smarties. He casually walked over to one. Eyeing the monitor that a young boy was using. He was on a website with a title, "YouTube" watching a video containing brightly colored ponies who seemed very happy and content with their lives. Meen used a bit of magic spot tap into the headphones of the boy and listen to what he heard. The boy clicked on another video in the sidebar titled, "My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic Season 2 Episode 14" Meen stood intently by, surprised nobody else noticed him standing there. He listened as the the video buffered and began... "My Little Pony, My Little Pony.... Ahhhhhhahhhhhhahhhhhahhhhh My Little Pony "I used to wonder what friendship could be.." My Little Pony "Until you all shared its magic with me.." Meen reversed the spell, tuning out of the earphones. He had heard enough... A land of colorful smart horses. Perfect. Meen quickly left the computer library and hastily walked home. He then sat by his book. He opened it and got sucked inside. Meen appeared within his labyrinth, in one of the cells on the first floor. He unlocked the door with a magical key and stepped out of it, being sure to lock it behind him. Meen made sure that scrolls weren't protecting his labyrinth's energy plants any more, but instead traps, puzzles. And twice the number of monsters. As Meen walked, the many gnomes he had guarding the place smiled at him and greeted him. Meen approached a cell. "Why hello, Gnorris." Meen said to the caged gnome "Go away, boss." Said Gnorries, without even turning his head. "I may yet give you a chance at redemption." Said Meen to the Gnome. Gnorris looked up at the blue garbed wizard. In turn Meen observed the gnome. The fat little man in his green coat and tan pants was unlike the other gnomes. Uglier perhaps with that purple cap resting upon the ugly face. And his need to always wear a scarf. Meen opened the door. "Come." Said Meen. Gnorris stood and stepped out of the cage. Meen closed it behind him and relocked it. He then teleported himself and the gnome out of the dark sewer dungeon. They soon were back in the little cabin in the woods. I.m.meen set the book on a pedestal, taking out a scroll and beginning to write on it. "Now, Gnorris, I need you to go to town and buy me a small TV, a DVD player, and a copy of My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic box set." Said Meen. Gnorris seemed completely confused. "B-boss?" Asks Gnorris in shock. "Go, before I turn you into a warthog." Said Meen over his shoulder. Gnorris unsurely saluted Meen and left the cabin with a bag of cash. Meen continued to write. Gnick, Have your boys up and ready to work in an hour. The labyrinth will be needing some inside improvements of your expertise and I believe you will be able to perfect them. The labyrinth will soon be housing little smarties very different from the last bunch and I'll need you and your boys to change a few things for me. They are as follows: 1. Add extra shackles In the cages for wings. 2. Use the included spell to protect the cell doors from magic. 3. Add extra iron braces Convert the iron bars to reinforced steel. 4. Lessen the number of torches in the cell area on Levels 1, 2, 3, and 5. 6. Find my lost copy of Meen: Space Marine. Remember to try and hide those nasty fire wands and power potions better this time . - Big M. Meen rolled up the scroll and slipped it into the book along with another scroll containing magical words. They disappeared instantly. He then sat back in his armchair and awaited Gnorris's return. ——————————————————————————————————————— ~One Hour Later~ Meen woke with a start at a loud knocking and he snapped his gaze to the wall clock. He had fallen asleep for an hour! And some one was at the door. He quickly stood and opened the door, revealing Gnorris, who had a wheelbarrow next to him, which had a TV box, a CD player-radio combo box, and a box set of all three seasons of My Little Pony: FriendShip is Magic. "Thank you, Gnorris!" Meen said cheerfully, knowing now there was a use for the power sockets in his cabin. He opened up the TV box and placed the small television set on the corner desk. Inside the box was a smaller box saying, "Digital Converter Box, can't watch TV without it!". Meen frowned as he attached it to the TV, and moved to the CD Player. He opened this box and messed with the cords until he picked the instruction book up in frustration. He read which cords go where and how it works, how the remote works, everything. He eventually had it all ready and turned on the TV. He opened the My Little Pony box and took out one of season 1's discs. He slid it into the thing and messed with the side of the TV until he found the CD players channel, which was three. A bright, colorful home menu appeared displaying lots of colorful ponies. He hit a random episode and sat back, watching it. "Boss?" Inquired Gnorris around two minutes into the show, "why are we watching this little girls' show?" Gnorris asked as he plumped down onto the floor. "Just wait, Gnorris." Said Meen impotently. Around ten minutes later Meen stood up and grabbed his book, opening it away from him and setting it down on top of the television, pages down. He smiled as he turned to Gnorris. "Place your hand on the TV" he said gesturing to it. Gnorris did as he was told, and Meen put his other hand on the opposite side of the TV. Meen started saying a few magic words loudly, and suddenly the TV began to flash from color to static and back again very quickly. Meen smiled, it was working. He felt a powerful suction and, eventually, Him and Gnorris were sucked into the labyrinth in a bright flash of light. The TV was left static. ——————————————————————————————————————— In a similar flash of light, Meen and Gnorris appeared in a colorful forest. Meen had the book in the crook of his arm. "Yes! It worked!" He ecstatically cried as he danced around. "Where are we boss?" Asked Gnorris, looking around. "Where you paying no attention you fat oaf?" Meen scorned as he waved his hand, "we're in Equestria, home of those clever goodie-goodie ponies." He said with a wicked grin. He waved his hands and made two large cloaks appear, "we must fit in," he said as he handed one to Gnorris and put the other one on, falling to his hands and knees, making himself look almost like a hooded beast. Gnorris did the same. "This will be a slow going process right now, Gnorris. But it will be worth it once we're done." He assured as they stepped onto a path, there was a sign that said "Ponyville, right, One Mile." Meen turned to look at Gnorris through the cloak. It was the kind you could see out of, not into, and he also added it to make it look like they had snouts and ears, even tails stuck out the back of their cloaked and gloves and shoes that looked like hooves adorned their respective appendages. "First we find the library, then we find that studious little brat Twilight Sparkle." Says Meen, remembering the name clear as day. Gnorris nods. They waddle clumsily towards Ponyville, the magic labyrinth tied carefully to Meen's chest.
The Cleverest One. Ignatius and Gnorris had been walking for some time as they spoke of many things, of shoes and ships and sealing wax, of cabbages and kings. They weren't sure exactly how their plan was going to go down once they found the town. They decided to cross that bridge when they came to it. Coincidentally, they were crossing a bridge at that very moment. They continued on until they came upon a small hut. Although by hut, it really was a large gnarled tree with a door and windows. They silently approached it and peered inside. It was empty save a large cauldron and many shelves of exotic things. Meen made a mental note of this place. They were startled by a voice coming from behind. "May I help you?" Meen and Gnorris turned around to see a zebra. She had a Mohawk formed mane and gold bands on her neck and left forehoof. "Oh no, bookwo- uhm- friend, my friend and I here are just passing through." Says Meen as they turn back to the road and continue on. "I see you're making haste as you pass by. I only ask on your return, that you stop and say 'Hi," says the zebra, waving the pair of hooded ponies as they walk away quickly. "Why didn't you trap her in your book, boss?" Gnorris asked, his legs beginning to grow uncomfortable. "She was speaking in rhyme you dope, she likely isn't very smart." Meen responded as they continued on their way. Zecora eyes them suspiciously as they carried on. Something did not quite sit right in her gut about the two. For one, the tail of one was falling off. She shrugged this off and decided it was probably a tail wig, that one did sound quite old and his tail was probably embarrassingly thin. "Boss, your tail is loose." Said Gnorris, who had fell a few paces behind. "Well normally I would chastise you for falling behind, slowpoke, but thanks." Said Meen with a laugh as he adjusted it with his hand, before returning it to his hoof looking glove shoe thing. "Boss, won't it be easier to turn us into ponies instead of these uncomfortable disguises, I can't feel my legs." Said Gnorris as he sat down, his cloak sliding off. He began to rub his sore legs. "Gnorris, you oaf! Get off the road if you're going to reveal yourself." Said Meen, hopping into the bushes. Gnorris stood and followed. Meen shed his own disguise, and stood up, his hands moving to pop his back. He still had the tail and everything attached, "But perhaps you're right. I am much too old to be crawling around like an animal. Why not look like one instead? He added with a menacing laugh. He waved his hands over himself and then was covered in a cloud of smoke. "How do I look? Wait, don't tell me." Meen said as he magically made a mirror appear in front of himself. He was a dark blue unicorn with white mane that mostly looked like his natural form. His tail was also white, but much more normal looking. He noticed something odd. He had a picture on his rear. He was about to say something about it but then remembered all ponies here do. He examined it. It wasn't anything special. It was only an open book. His left earring still stayed from his human form. "Now for you." He said turning to Gnorris. His horn began to glow, and the Gnome began to change. Poof! "Now let me see," Gnorris said as he used a hoof to turn the mirror. He was a forest green earth pony with an orange ginger style mane. He frowned. Sure he wasn't good looking in the first place, but is would have to do. He was still wearing his scarf and purple hat. Gnorris turned to observe his mark as well. It was the crystal orb. Meen used his magic to make the clothing disguises disappear, save the cloak. He used his magic then to fix the cloak to himself and the other to Gnorris. They re-met the road and continued. They had reached the edge of the forest. There, they saw a small cottage with a grass roof. It wasn't of a very regular shape. And had many windows and bird houses. It seems like the type Snow White would live in. I've seen bigger hobbit homes, Meen thought as they walked up to the door. He gave it a quick rap with his hoof. The door cracked open slightly and a butter yellow head with a long, pink mane flowed out. "Hello, pony." Said Meen in his fake friendly voice. "M-may I help you?" She said weakly. "Could you direct us to the nearest library?" Meen asked, leaning closer with a slightly creepy smile. The pony pulled her head back a bit. "Oh.. Uhm.. It's... In..*incoherent mumbling*" She said. "Come again?" Meen asked. The pony squeaked slightly. "It's in p-Ponyville, right th-there," she said, pointing to a nearby town who's view was obscured before. "Thank you." Meen said, turning around and walking back to the road. "Thank you, Fluttershy." Said Gnorris too. Oops. Fluttershy squealed and ran back inside, closing the door. "You ignorant nincompoop!" Meen scolded. "We aren't supposed to know anybody! Come now, keep your mouth shut." He said as he face hoofed and turned back to the town, and continued walked. Gnorris followed as well. Fluttershy looked out her window slightly. How did they know her? Was she the target of a secret agency plot? Was she in trouble with the royal guard? Her worried thoughts were endless. They soon arrived at the edge of the town of PonyVille. Its colorful buildings and even more colorful residents didn't seem to pay them any need, much to Meen's relief. Meen looked to Gnorris, and motioned his head sideways. Meen had kept the , book in the cloak tied to his back instead of his chest. The plan flowed flawlessly as the pair of shapeshifted humans made their way through town. Meen eyes the white buildings with their fancy style and straw homes. They passed a fancy looking bakery with a sign labeled 'Sugarcube Corner', it sounded like an interesting place and Meen decided they should stop by. He turned into it and Gnorris almost tripped himself as he turned as well, stumbling over his new hooves. They entered the building. Meen looked about, there were tables all about, and a counter with shelves that displayed many cakes and other fine things. He went forward to take a look. "Would you look at these, boss, they look delicious." Said Gnorris, who was standing there as well. "Yes, too bad we haven't the money to get any." Meen said with a shrug. He turned around to see a bright pink face and happy teal eyes mere millimeters from his. "NO PROBLEM!" Exclaimed the pink pony without warning. Meen gave a surprised shout and nearly fell over from the shock and Gnorris merely flinched and turned around. "I'm Pinky Pie! I've never met YOU before!" She said in what Meen understood as a highly pitched irritating, grating, and mentally assaulting voice, she began hopping around them. "We're going to be best friends! What're your names? WHAT'RE YOUR NAMES?" She said with an ever present smile. Meen found none of this amusing, but all of it irritating. Gnorris smiled. "I am Gnorris, nice to meet you." He said, helping the boss up. "I am I.M.Meen." Said Meen as he stood, brushing his cloak off. "Are you a librarian?" The bubbly pony asked, her curly pink mane bouncing along with her steps. She was looking at Meen's rear. Meen was about to say something about her staring at his flank but realized that's probably customary around here. "No, but I am a magician." Meen said, then adding his customary, "I, am the most POWERFUL, magician in the world!" He said, standing on his hind hooves and waving his hands in an arc over his head, making a whooshing sound. Gnorris sighed. "Oh I doubt that!" Said the excitable pink pony, "I bet Twilight it more powerfully - powerful than you!" She said. Meen grew cross. "We'll see about that." He said, turning to go. "Wait! Here, free samples!" Pinkie pie said as she handed them each a muffin. "Come again!" She said as they left. They smiled and left, eating the muffins as they went. "She was nice," said Gnorris. "I suppose." Said Meen. "You're not rethinking taking this place over are you?" "No." Gnorris sighed. He wishes Meen wasn't so stubborn and that he would lighten up and be a nice guy, but he knew well that Meen's lust for power would be his undoing, just like the last time. Gnorris wasn't yet sure if he was going to betray the boss a second time. Before Gnorris could think much longer, they turned a corner and spotted a large tree which was converted into a building. "There it is!" Meen said, walking forward. Gnorris followed as well. Nearer and nearer they drew to the door, when suddenly..... WHAM!!! Gnorris was knocked over by a flash of gray and blonde matter. He helplessly rolled alongside the pony who had just crashed into him. Meen stopped moving, and slowly turned his head with a dramatic look of frustration upon his face. "Get off of me, please!" Gnorris said, trying to get the Pegasus off of himself. "Sorry, sir, I don't know what went wrong, I was just flying and suddenly, poof! You were in the way!" Said the pony. "I WAS IN THE WAY?!!?!?!" Exclaimed Gnorris in disbelief, pushing the gray mare off. He then softened up when he realized her eyes were a little googoly. The pony frowned and tried to take off. Spinning directly upward. "Gnorris, are you finished playing 'Knight in Shining Armor?', yet?" Meen said impatiently, tapping his foot. Gnorris sighed and they went to the door, Meen struggled a bit, not sure how to use hooves, and managed to open it. They stepped inside. Once inside Meen examined the place. It was a wooden rotunda with bookshelves everywhere and a table smack in the center. This library was neater than the ones back home. They spotted a lavender unicorn with a two toned dark blue and purple mane, standing alone facing a shelf. "Well well." Said Meen with a smile, approaching the unicorn, whom he knew instantly was Twilight Sparkle. She turned around at the voice and smiled awkwardly. "Oh, hello, welcome!" She said in a classic librarian manner, "I'm Twilight Spar-" "We know who you are." Said Meen, cutting her off. "What brings you here?" She asks, sitting at the table. "I traveled far from......" Meen said, pausing to look at a world map, he only glanced at it for a brief second before saying, "Constantineighble, I wanted you to see this for me, and tell me if it is any good." He said, reaching to his back, under his cloak and pulling out the book, barely balancing it on his hoof. "Well, I'm flattered that you came to me, but I'm sure there are better librarians." She said, sliding the book over to herself. "Oh, no, miss Sparkle. I've heard many times that you're the cleverest bookworm in all of Equestria." He said with a friendly smile. She gave an unsure smile. "Well, we don't normally use the term, 'bookworm' to identify smart ponies around here, but, you're from out of town after all.." She said, going to open the book. Meen smiled deviously and Gnorris simply pretended to not pay attention. "Twilight!" Came a male voice from upstairs, which thereafter wandered from a baby dragon. "Yes, spike?" She asked. "Fluttershy just sent me a message tied to a birds leg.. She said two scary stallions wandered by her house asking this way. She said they knew her name and she had never seen them before." Said spike. Then eyeing the two stallions. "Well, I'm sure we can go out and meet them soon. Let me finish business here, and I'll be right out." She said. Meen gave a quiet sigh of relief. Spike nodded and headed outside, "so lets see.." Twilight said, opening the book. ..... Meen looked at Gnorris confused, who looked back and shrugged. The book hadn't sucked her in. "These pages are blank, what's going on?" Said Twilight, looking up suspiciously. Meen quickly reached forward and tapped the book with his hoof. It began to shake and leapt off the table, facing open towards twilight. "Wait, what is this!?!?!", She said, beginning to feel herself being pulled towards the book. "What's the matter smarty? Confused?" Meen said, rubbing his forehooves together deviously. Twilight attempted to scream, but she was already sucked inside instead. To the most unpleasant place she's ever seen. The Magic Labyrinth of I.M.Meen.
Stealing a Pie...... An unknown instrument emanates as if from nowhere, it echoed through the library relentlessly as Ignatius Mortimer Meen picks up the rhythm with his feet. He eyes wearily at the five photos of Applejack, Rarity, Pinky Pie, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash. "Oh look, what clever ponies. See them happy? Watch them careless? How I HATE these colorful ponies. How they make my stomach turn." He sang out loud, swiping the pictures off the desk where they stand. They clatter to the floor, the frames breaking and the glass shattering, Meen began to dance about the room, continuing to sing... "I've got a little secret, that'll really make 'em cry! It's a nasty kind of magic... From a 'special' kind of guy." He melodically verbalized. He took a moment to continue his mad dance as the magical music continued to play, he held his book high in the air and continued, "This book is made to order, but it isn't to be read. When they open up this book, they're sucked inside instead, to the most unpleasant place they've ever seen: The magic labyrinth of I.M.Meen! Very scary, and confusing, destination of MY choosing! Magic labyrinth of I.M.Meeeehehehehehehehn! AHAHAHAHAHA!" He finished. Unable to complete the statement without his unjust laughter. Gnorris, who was tapping his foot impatiently, glared at Meen. "Are you finished?" He asked, tiredly, having heard this same tune, or variations of it, far too many times, and grew incredulously weary of it. Meen laughed once more and nodded his head. He picked up the scattered photos and looked through them. "If these five little ponies are Twilight's friends.... Then they might be smart, so we should capture them, too." Meen said, laying out each of the pictures, there was even a picture of twilight nearby, so he took that, and made a magical stamp hit the picture with a large, red X. The picture then moved to be tacked into the wall. "The cleverest one is down. Who should we go after next?" He asked. Gnorris walked up and looked at the pictures. "Wouldn't it be better if we put these around somewhere where nobody could see them if they walked in? Because if they start noticing ponies going missing, and see these, they'll get very suspicious." Gnorris suggested. "A novel idea." Meen stated, wondering why that had never crossed his mind, perhaps it was because he was used to living where no one could find him. He scooped up all the stuff and carried it upstairs with his magic. Gnorris followed as they made their way to the top of the steps and through the single door. Meen smiled, perfect. With a nearby ink pot and quill, he inscribed' "Do not enter." Onto a piece of paper and put it on the outside of the door, for higher security. He couldn't logically get one of his guardians out here to protect the door. He noticed the room had a bed and a dog bed. He kicked the dog bed across the room and out of the way. He disliked the blue, night sky printed comforter on the bed, but it would have to do. This library provided a central location which made an optimal control point. He laid down on the bed and sorted the pictures in alphabetical order, setting Twilight's aside, since she was already taken care of. He pinned hers to the wall. "Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinky Pie, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity." Meen stated, as he listed out his objectives in the order they were now laid upon the bed, "I don't think we should nab each in alphabetical order, someone might see a pattern as their precious elements go missing, I think we should randomize, what say you?" Meen asks without looking up. "Boss! Look at this neat globe!" Gnorris said, spinning the world of Equestria around in circles and looking over the planet's spherical representation. Meen sighed, continuing his point, after he had looked up and back down. "Stay focused, you miserable warthog, or I'll make you into a real warthog." Meen threatened, before saying, "Fluttershy would be a wise choice, since she already suspects something, but Pinkie Pie might be the fir-" "Woah! Boss! Look at this!" Gnorris called from a side door, interrupting Meen, "There's an entire observatory in here!" He called out. Meen growled, using his magic to turn the previously unlucky dog bed over, and furthermore planting Gnorris firmly in it. "You are beginning to annoy me." Meen scorned. Gnorris shrunk down a little and nodded apologetically, "Now, what was I saying you fool?" He asks. "Something about Flutterpie and Pinkie Shy?" He asked. Meen lifted an eyebrow, and Gnorris corrected himself on the spot, "Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie." Meen shook his head and stood up off the bed. "I'll just do it myself, you stay here, and if that lizard comes back, keep. Him. Downstairs." Meen said impatiently, taking the book and heading downstairs, calling up, "And if he asks about Twilight, tell him we went for a walk." He called, putting the book under his cloak and heading out the door, realizing his magic worked here as it did at home. He squinted at the bright sunlight that still graced the land with all it's glory. Meen headed back in the direction of Sugarcube Corner. As he walked he considered what Gnorris had said about changing his mind. He blew off the thought without a second more. He failed on Earth. He wasn't going to fail here. He headed across the plaza towards the building with an innocent air. He passed by three small fillies riding around on a scooter-pulled cart. He scoffed as he hopped to the side of the speeding wagon, wondering if that was even legal. He shrugged it off as he entered the building, seeing it was not as empty as it had been only hours before. There were small crowds gathered at each table, each eating various things and laughing, generally having a good time. This was not going to be a piece of cake... Or rather, pie. He walked forward, eyeing his three sixty, as to make sure the bouncy pink pony wouldn't sneak up on him a second time. He gave a relieved exhale as he saw her already busy. He flipped up the cloak hood and sat in the corner, nopony really saw him, so he could sit there for a while and plot the downfall of Pinkie Pie. After a while, he got his plan. It was perfectly simple, wait for closing time.. He moved outside without a sound and sat under a nearby tree. He then got an idea and moved around the back of the building, where he spotted a small mass of bushes. He took out the book and sat in the bush, he tapped it, and opened it, getting sucked inside. But due to its clever magic, the book routed him to a different room, other than the prisons. ______________________________ He appeared at the end of the labyrinth, which was the portion modeled after a library. This is where that studious little brat had defeated him long ago, and it still smelt of burnt troll. He decided to walk around and check upon the guardians. He left the first room and went down to the others, checking to make sure each monster and troll was in line. He checked each spot where he knew items to be hidden, and was disappointed to find they all remain. He shrugged it off as nothing and continued along through the labyrinth. Going through every level and section, finding everything to be mostly satisfactory. He stopped a moment to talk to Gnick and his crew, who were replacing a few walls on level 15, they had even remembered to patch up the holes that had been there for so long, revealing hidden items. Eventually he approached the portal to the dungeon level. He took a deep breath, hoping everything down here would be in order. He reversed the spell and regained his natural form. He went through the portal, going into the dungeon. And seeing all was well. Meen moved to the very first floor, and approached the first cell, he smiled, "Hello, bookworm." Said Meen upon seeing Twilight Sparkle in the cell. Her fore and hind legs were chained to the wall, and her horn was holding her head back, as a black shroud of canceling magic surrounded it. She turned her head as much as she could as Meen entered the cell and stood before her. "Who are you?" She asked. "Are you that daft, you studious little brat?" Meen said as he snapped his fingers. A mirror appeared beside him, showing the reflection of his pony form, "I am I.M.Meen, the most powerful magician in the world!" He said in a way much like he had told Pinky Pie. He snapped his fingers again and the mirror vanished. Twilight seemed shocked, wondering how in Equestria a human, much less and evil human, managed to sneak unnoticed into the land, and capture her? The unicorn with the most not bragged about potential? Twilight friggin Sparkle? "What do you want from me." She asked, looking crossly at him. Meen picked up a small knife from the wall and looked at her, she gulped. "I want nothing from you, Twilight Sparkle." He said as he snapped his fingers again, making a small cake appear. He cut a slice and stuffed the entirety into his mouth. He cut another, and put it on a plate, which he put in reach of her muzzle, "And for the time being, I care not for you to be harmed, bookworm." He said, turning for the exit. "You won't win, Meen, my friends can out match you! As long as they have each other." She says to him. Meen releases a sinister laugh... "That is why you will see them all appear down here. One. By. One." He said, leaving the cell. "THIS ISN'T OVER, MEEN!" She yelled after him, trying her magic once more, only for It to once more fail. Meen chuckled and said quietly to himself, "Oh, but it has just begun." ________________________________ Meen appeared once more outside, in the bush he had sat in previously. It was darkening outside, for it had taken him a few good hours to walk the labyrinth. He saw that other than a few stupid adolescents, some drunks, and other late nighters, the town was asleep. He walked back to Sugarcube Corner to collect the next pony. He chuckled as he found the door unlocked. This town was far too trusting. He crept quietly inside and closed the farmhouse style door behind himself. It was dark inside and equally lifeless. He climbed over the counter, and crept towards the stairs, he quickly remembered something. He wasn't back in pony form... Oh well, anyone who claims to have seen a human would probably be dubbed crazy. Meen had reached the top of the stairs, seeing four doors. He snuck along the silent floor in the dark of the hallway. He peered in the first door. A bathroom. He stepped to the second, and cracked it open, he peered inside and saw two older ponies sleeping soundly, presumably the owners of this joint. He closed the door and moved to the next, it was a babies' room, with two cribs, each housing a sleeping baby pony. He smiled and closed the door extra quiet, and moved to the final room. He opened the door and stepped inside, seeing Pinkie Pie lying fast asleep, snoring loudly. Creeping up carefully, Meen set his book down and tapped it, touching it to the pink mare. Nothing. He looked at it and remembered she had to open it. How could he forget? It, after all was his own labyrinth. He set it on her exposed stomach and whispered into her ear, "Pinkie, open the book for uh.. a ...uh... A Magical Cupcake Journey to the Far Off Land of Gingerbread." He whispered, perhaps paving away for another story. Pinkie, in her sleep, muttered something about needing to lose weight, and opened the book. She was silently pulled inside. And Meen smiled happily, closing it, and saying, "Sweet dreams, Pinkie Pie," ______________________________ It was at least midnight as Meen walked towards the library, barely a pony was out now, save a few thugs who were clearly the victims of constant late night partying. They spotted him, and look to each other, before approaching the dark blue unicorn. They surrounded him with a semi circle, blocking him from his destination. "Hey old man, what's with the book? Is it your little old lady diary?" The biggest one asks, puffing his chest up to him, and stuffing his face towards Meen. Meen, in turn, snorted and backed up a few paces. "I suggest you back off, oh bumbling oaf." Meen warned the big brown earth pony. All of the stallions laughed. The stallion stepped forward and shoved him forward a few paces. Meen growled. "Get back, you! Before I turn you unto a chipmunk!" He threatened one last time, charging his magic. They all continued to laugh. Meen just smiled, casting his magic. In three seconds, the teenage stallion was reduced to a small chipmunk. The others jumped back in surprise, turned, and ran. One mare returned for a second, picked up the chipmunk, and been to run again. Meen laughed as he went back to the library. Once inside, Meen locked the door behind himself, and trotted upstairs. He opened the door to find Gnorris fast asleep... On the bed, instead of the dog bed like Meen had thought he had instructed. Meen only sighed and smiled, shaking his head, he set the book down, amongst other books, as to hide it. He moved to where a few cushions sat on a window seat, and lied down, hoping for an easy day of conquering on his second day in Equestria.
