The Legend of the Phantasm Kirin

by ObeliskTheOwl

Rating: teen
Tags: Main 6, Princess Luna, Gore, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Alternate Universe, Original Character, Adventure, Discord, Princess Celestia
Length: 15008

When an ancient evil re-awakens and makes its presence known among Equestria, it's up to Princess Twilight and her friends to stop it. But how can they fight what they cannot see?

Ages ago, during the time when the rule of Princess Celestia and Luna was still young, the greatest evil was imprisoned. It was never supposed to return. It was kept hidden from all of Equestria, and as time passed, the once feared deity became nothing more than a pony myth. But like everything to follow, the imprisonment fell apart, allowing life to the evil once again.

Now it's up to Princess Twilight and her friends to stop this monster from wreaking havoc among the face of Equestria. They've battled an insectoid queen, the very being of Chaos, a power-hungry king, and even the sister of Celestia. But how can they fight what they cannot see?

"It shared the same fate of stone as myself. It was only a matter of time before it broke free." -Discord

(This takes place 15 years after Season 3)

(Thanks to WyvernQueen for helping out with grammar.)

(Tags may be added or removed as the story progresses)

Published 2013-08-09 04:30:02 UTC
Last updated 2014-01-27 22:06:28 UTC

Prologue

“Fire….everything is ablaze.” The sound of hooves beating against the charred dirt rang through the fiery land. Embers trailed into the heavy smoke as the only intact being kept galloping. She was dark blue with a lunar mark on her flank. She adorned a horn and wings. Her mane flowed and resembled the beautiful night sky. She was Princess Luna, a ruler of Equestria

Luna couldn’t understand how this could’ve happened. Just moments ago, she had traversed the dream plane and entered various pony’s thoughts, then BOOM. Every dream was the same; Equestria, destroyed and arid, save the fire that still hungrily scoured the land. She realized that this was a nightmare, but it felt so real. She continued her trek until she reached Canterlot, or what was left of her kingdom. Dashing into the blazing ruins of the castle, she spotted one of her bat-winged guards on the dirt, blood flowing from his side.

“What transpired here? Where is my sister?” Luna asked the dying guard, who shook his head slowly.

“Your Highness, Celestia is dead. She was assassinated before the castle was set on fire.” Luna backed away slowly. Her sister was dead? Who would commit such an act? So many questions, but the guard wasn’t done.

“As for what happened, how can you not remember? You killed your sister, Luna. With her death, the sun was no longer maintained, allowing a wave of geothermal energy to engulf everything, and everypony, in flames,” the guard said before finally giving in to the loss of blood. Luna backed away even more; horror consuming her. She had done what?

“Luna, pull yourself together. Remember, this is nothing more than a nightmare, a realistic one. Maybe this could be considered...a...phantasm…” Suddenly, the landscape vanished. For a moment, everything was white. Then darkness covered her. She couldn’t see anything, until she heard a voice.

“I hope you've had a good night’s rest, Luna. Because this is just the beginning,” the voice rang out; dark and filled with pure evil. Luna knew that voice all too well. She hoped it wasn't what it was, but her fears were confirmed with the sight of two, glowing, crimson eyes. It had happened. It had returned. Luna began to fade out as she woke up, hearing a voice saying,

“Wake up, inhabitants of Equestria. I want to play.”

Luna sat up swiftly, shaking her bed a bit. She was sweating and trembling. She had to tell her sister. With that thought driving her, Luna got out of bed and burst through her doors. She galloped down the hallway until she reached her sister’s room. Luna knew Celestia was a deep sleeper, so she decided to wake her up by bucking her doors down. The sudden noise awoke Celestia, who sat up and turned to face her sister.

“Luna, what’s troubling you?” concern was in Celestia’s voice. Luna trembled.

“Sister, we must act hastily. The greatest evil has befallen Equestria once more. It has returned. The Phantasm Kirin has returned…”

Chapter I: Fear Incarnate

“What in Celestia’s name happened to Canterlot?” The flapping of wings created a distinct sound, echoing unnaturally through the collapsing city. A streak of purple illuminated the skies temporarily. The figure continued to fly over Canterlot, terrified at the sight of raging flames and charred corpses. This figure was lavender, harbouring a horn and two powerful wings. She bore a six star-like shape mark surrounded by white sparkles. On her head, a golden crown with a crest similar to her mark shone bright. This was Princess Twilight Sparkle.

As she flew, she spotted Ponyville. It was hard to miss, as an enormous flame roared from a certain oak tree. That was her old residence, and it was burning down. Fear latched onto Twilight’s heart as she remembered two people still lived there. Were they alive? She flew even faster to the Golden Oak Library, the name of her former home. Landing harshly on the ground and kicking up a circular cloud of dust, she approached the tree.

“Spike?  Owlowiscious? Are you two there?”

No response.

“Please, someone answer me!” Twilight felt tears streaming down her cheeks. It wasn’t like Spike to just give up, and Owlowiscious would never go down that easily, but as the oak burned down to its roots, she feared the worst. To her horror, among the ash lay two bodies; one of an owl, and one of a dragon. They were dead. She fell flat on the dirt, tears now gushing out of her eyes. But then she viewed the fire. A fire of that caliber couldn’t have started naturally without someone setting it off. Suddenly, something hit her; something went off in her mind.

“Dragons… are fireproof.” No matter the age of a dragon, their scales were invulnerable to fire and lava. Spike himself told her after the Dragon Migration fiasco a couple years back. Twilight backed away slowly, grasping the events she had witnessed.

“This….is a dream! A nightmare! None of this is real!”

“Very clever, Miss Sparkle. It would seem that you have seen through my deception,” a voice rang out. In an instant, the entire scene collapsed into nothingness. It was dark. Twilight looked around, but of course, nothing was visible. That was, until a pair of crimson eyes appeared out of nowhere.

“Who are you?” Twilight's horn began to spark with magic, preparing for an attack. “How can you be in my head?”

“Oh Twilight, no need to ask such tedious questions. Everything will come together. Just as planned. Your fellow princess, sweet Celestia, shall dispatch you soon to confront me. But you will not return. I will impale you and those you hold dear with a swift strike. Spike, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and even the lovely Fluttershy will writhe in agony before your very eyes. One by one, they’ll cease to live, until it comes to you. I hope you enjoyed your sleep, for it shall be your last.” The eyes shut, only to open again with electrical sparks coming from the outer corners. Twilight couldn’t react as an azure thunderbolt approached her head and-

Blank…

Twilight shot up in her bed, breathing heavily as her eyes darted around the room frantically. Rays of sunshine cast themselves onto her covers and onto her head, calming her gradually. She gazed onto the floor for a moment and then looked up. Tilting her head in slight confusion, she saw six beds. In each bed, the covers shifted spastically and faint mumbles of the word ‘No’ were heard. She realized that her friends were here, but she couldn’t quite remember why they were here.

“Hold on a second…” Everything began to rush back to her head. Princess Celestia had summoned them all the night before to discuss something urgent, but do to an odd delay; her friends didn’t arrive until late last night. Celestia had suggested that everypony (and dragon) get some rest, so they all decided to crash in Twilight’s room.

For a while, she was the only one awake, until her friends shot up. Twilight gazed around, noticing everyone, from Rainbow Dash to even Pinkie Pie, was trembling.

“Are you all alright?” asked Twilight as she clambered out of bed. Rainbow shook her head.

“I had a crazy nightmare that all of Equestria burned down. Everyone was dead, and I mean every single living thing,” she waved her hooves around. Everyone stared in awe.

“I had the same dream…if you don’t mind me saying,” said Fluttershy meekly. Twilight paused. How was this possible? Only one pony could do this, but Luna wouldn’t do something this severe, and King Sombra was dead.

“What do you think this means?” Spike asked as he clutched his chest; his heart still beating hard from the nightmare.

“A voice told me that this was a planned event. It said that this would be my last sleep. It also said it would kill everyone here.” Twilight said as she walked over to the window, gazing at the rising sun.

“Ah reckon everyone here heard that voice,” Applejack grabbed her Stetson hat as her friends nodded in unison. Brushing it off, they all got out of bed. Soon, the room was filled with ponies and a dragon getting ready. They were going to see Princess Celestia and Luna, after all.

The doors swung open as Twilight and her friends walked down the hallway to the throne room. At each pillar in the castle, a guard stood tall. Whether it was Luna’s or Celestia’s was trivial. However, this was more defense than usual. Each guard was armed with a lance and a cup of coffee. No one really understood the coffee part.

They approached the doors to the throne room, guarded by two dragons. Spike eyed the two skeptically, only to be greeted with a fierce snarl and a pointed sabre. He wasn’t fazed, and gave a smug look back. Nopony was surprised. Over the years, Spike had grown taller that the ponies, but was the same size as them when on all fours. His baby fat was gone, leaving lean muscles and a sinuous tail. His spines were like daggers.

Twilight was let in, but they stopped everyone else. She turned and nodded, giving a signal to both dragons. They let everyone pass, but elbowed Spike on his way in. Princess Celestia sat in front of them.

“Celestia, what’s with the coffee for all the guards?” asked a curious Pinkie Pie. This earned a round of sighs, but Celestia answered anyways.

“I shall explain everything, but first, did you all rest well?” Twilight shook her head.

“We all had nightmares; the same nightmare,” said Twilight as she pointed to her friends.

“Just as I feared. It really has returned,” a distraught Celestia said grimly. “As for the coffee, none of the guards want to sleep. They had a nightmare as well.”

“Only two ponies could’ve conducted this. One of them is gone, and I doubt Princess Luna would create such a thing,” said Rarity in a matter-of-fact voice. Celestia agreed.

“Then who does that leave? Some mumbo-jumbo voodoo spirit with a vengeance?” Rainbow was well out of guesses.

“Celestia, I believe this is why you called us?” Twilight asked.

“It is the reason. These nightmares weren’t caused by Luna, as we have already established, and King Sombra couldn’t have done it. That is what you all believed and you are correct. However, there is one who has the ability to create vivid nightmares and visions, or phantasms.” Celestia descended from her throne and turned to face it. Muttering a simple phrase, her throne shifted to the side, revealing a dusty corridor. “Come with me, and I will explain everything.”

The place was dark, so Spike lit all the torches they passed. It was dusty, and the multiple stairs down weren’t helping. As they stepped down, symbols and marks lined the top and bottom of the wall. They appeared to be ancient runes. As they neared the end of the downward spiral, they were greeted by Princess Luna and Discord.

“Oh, there you are. Lulu and I were beginning to think you trapped us down here!” Discord jokingly said as Luna gave a stare of annoyance. “I see you brought the gang. Now can we hurry up and get this boring lecture out of the way? Equestria is scheduled for a heavy chance of chocolate milk rain.”

“What Discord wanted to say was that we should make haste and explain now.” Luna translated, getting a pouty face from a certain draconequus. Celestia nodded. Lowering her horn, she touched the wall, sparking the runes. As the runes lit up, the dull, gray stone wall became filled with marks and symbols.

“Have any of you heard of the Phantasm Kirin?” Celestia asked.

“The Phantasm Kirin? I thought that was some old dumb pony myth,” Rainbow replied.

“I wish it were, but the Phantasm Kirin is real. I know because Luna and I stopped it.” The wall lit up instantly, causing everyone to jump back. Celestia began her story.

“Ages ago, before Luna and I ruled Equestria, there was a race of creatures called the Kirin. These creatures, even though they appeared to be pony, were a different thing all together. Yes, they looked like unicorns, but they could easily do anypony’s task, from the clearing of clouds like a Pegasus to the handy work of an earth pony. The Kirin lived on the outskirts of Equestria. They weren’t hostile. They enjoyed helping ponies with tasks that were difficult.”

“However, this wouldn’t last. In the Hearth’s Warming Eve play, the windigos were believed to have brought the blizzards, but that fact isn’t truthful. It was a cover-up.” This gained a sharp gasp from Twilight and her friends. Celestia continued.

“The Kirin had brought the snow to try and solve the argument and hostility between races, but instead, this enraged all of them. The Kirin intended for the snow to hinder all three races separately, and only by working together would the snow stop, but no one believed them. When they told the three races their plans, no one would listen. The pegasi, unicorns, and earth ponies believed this was an act of hostility. What they ignored was that no one died from the cold.”

“Each one of them realized a Kirin was stronger than each race by a large amount. One Kirin equaled twenty ponies, and as they got older, that number increased. The races could’ve asked them to stop, but rage blinded them. Everypony began to realize that a Kirin could do this anytime, anywhere. So, they all resolved to work together.”

“Isn’t that what the Kirin wanted? If you don’t mind me asking,” asked Fluttershy.

“It was, but they worked together to eradicate the race. The pegasi, unicorns, and earth ponies worked together to kill the entire Kirin race.”

“Now what the hay were they all thinkin’? Ah can’t believe they would do sumthin’ like that!” Applejack was just as shocked as everyone else.

“It was a sight most horrid. One by one, they killed the Kirin. Blood tainted the ground as Kirin were burned, impaled, and beaten to death. However, the Kirin never fought back. If they died to bring peace and order among the races, then so be it.”

“Such purpose! Truly, the Kirin were a fine race,” said Rarity. Everyone nodded.

“But they died in vain, for the snow did not vanish, and all three races didn’t want to work together to fix their land. Once again, arguments came up.”

“However, there was one Kirin alive; a pregnant female, ready to give birth. As she lay, beaten and broken, covered in blood, she conceived an infant Kirin.”

“When Kirin are born, they gain the memories of their parents so they know who they’re family is and who they honour. The Kirin also have an elemental affinity, whether it be the straightforward fire or the mysterious light. When the infant was born, it carried the memories of carnage and grief, and was gifted with the affinity for lightning. Afterwards, the mother died.”

“That’s terrible…” Pinkie Pie drooped down. “The baby would never spend time with its family or make any friends.” Celestia nodded.

“This caused the last Kirin to change. To contrast, as the Kirin were known for their peace and order, it became filled with hatred and wrath towards all three races of pony. It swore vengeance on everypony.”

“As the years went by, that kirin trained in black magic. It learned to create vivid illusions, or phantasms. As it grew, it became larger than the average Kirin, stronger, faster, and its power grew exponentially. Its lightning became stronger than any pegasi could control. Soon, it began to attack ponies in the day. It then realized ponies felt safer as they slept, so it began to give phantasms at night.” Twilight and the others listened, even though the tale was long.

“It soon became known as just Phantasm. That was until Luna and I met it ourselves during the first hundred years of our rule. Luna, care to continue?” Luna nodded as Celestia sat beside Discord.

“We heard that Phantasm had been spotted in a cave in the Everfree Forest. Sister and I were the only ones able to confront it, since anyone who attempted was kept at bay with an electric burst. We even had dragons try, but to no avail.”

“We entered the cave, ready for anything, horns aglow with magic. Suddenly, we heard the slow sound of hooves. From the depths of the cave, two, crimson eyes glowed as something sighted us. As it came closer, our magic-lit horns casted light onto the figure. We distinguished it as a Kirin, and we were afraid. A Kirin could easily kill anything. So we unleashed two beams of energy and ran out of the cave.”

“But we failed as we were taken captive by a large azure bubble. Slowly, the bubble levitated back to Phantasm, who glared at the two of us. It lowered its horn, making contact with the bubble. The azure faded as a deep purple came to be…” Luna’s voice trailed off. Celestia understood.

“That’s when we experienced the phantasms for our own. I dare not recall it in detail.” Twilight sat, wondering back at the nightmare.

“After that event, it became the Phantasm Kirin. Knowing we couldn’t let it linger in Equestria, we harnessed the Elements of Harmony and encased it in stone, hiding the statue from prying eyes.” Discord stood up, shaking his head at the familiarity.

“It shared the same fate of stone as myself. It was only a matter of time before it broke free.”

Chapter II: Dragon, You Bounty Hunter

“So, that’s what we’re up against; a near omnipotent ancient beast with the ability to conjure up phantasms and lightning?” Spike paused, processing the story he had just heard. “Forgive me Princess Celestia, but ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR MIND?”

“Spike, darling, do calm down. Keep in mind that the Elements of Harmony turned that fiend into stone, and can surely do so again.” Rarity said calmly. Discord shook his head once more.

“Actually, Spike has a right to be scared stiff. If you recall, I, Discord, the most handsome of all draconequus, was able to single…uh…paw-ed-ly destroy the bond of friendship between you all. With you all ‘Discorded’, if I may, the Elements had no effect.  Also, you all had to be present and focused in order to imprison me in stone.”

“The bond was needed, but being present and focused? I’m not so sure those are legitimate reasons.” Twilight said as she unfolded her wings, stretching them out. Discord let out a gasp and grabbed Celestia’s crown, placing it on his head. Clearing his throat, he let out his impression of the Royal Canterlot Voice.

“HOW DARE YOU QUESTION MINE LOGIC? FOR MANY MOONS, I HAVE DRAWN BREATH. YET THY IGNORANCE totally makes you forget I know more.” Discord said as he returned the crown to a shocked Celestia.

“That didn’t prove anything! All it did was give me a headache! What was the point of that?” Twilight said as she placed her hoof on her temple, massaging it.

“Twilight dear, I’m Discord. I don’t need to have a point when doing things. But you’re right. So to answer your question, I’m going to need to get a stick.” Discord snapped his lion paw, creating a zipper afloat in mid-air. Sticking the slider up his nose, he removed his head, allowing gravity to act on it. Slowly, the slider descended, revealing that within the zipper, was a rift in reality.

“Discord, was that really necessary?” Celestia asked.

“Shut up, Celly. I don’t need some magical pony telling me how to get a stick. Now where was I?” Discord reached in to the rift, pulling out his head, while his head was still on the stone floor with a slider up his nose. Placing on his head, he gazed into the rift, and proceeded to pull random items out.

“No. No. No. No. N-Oh! That’s where the cookie went! Been looking for that. No. No. Ah ha! There it is!” Discord triumphantly pulled out a stick. Then he gazed down at his head. Shrugging, he kicked it into the rift, causing it to disappear. Discord looked at Pinkie and dragged her by the tail in front of everyone. He kicked her, causing a projector to come out her mouth. Turning it on, he began as Pinkie just sat there at his feet.

“Alright, here, we have the five discorded mares plus one confused Spike wielding the elements. Notice the lack of Rainbow Dash,” he said, pointing at the photo, which happened to be a poorly drawn chicken-scratch picture. “Now, watch as you attempt to use the Elements of Harmony,” the picture became animated and showed that there was indeed no effect.

“Next scenario. Here, we have you six mares about to turn me to stone. Notice when Pinkie gets distracted, you girls don’t use your elements until she is focused,” he pointed at the scene, “and that’s why attendance and focus are of the utmost importance.”

“Disregarding the oddness of explanation, Discord has a point. The Phantasm Kirin knows who you are and what weaknesses you bear. It is imperative that you all stay focused and stick together.” Celestia said. Suddenly, something came to Spike’s mind.

“Celestia, I’ve been meaning to ask you about the dragons standing guard at the throne room door. What’s that all about?” Spike asked, although he didn’t care for the dragons themselves.

“Well Spike, the dragons-“

“Happen to belong to a dragon bounty hunter who was hired to take down the Phantasm Kirin with us because he’s been hunting it down ever since the beginning and you’re paying him with a large amount from the Castle Treasury and those dragons are his helpers?” Pinkie Pie interrupted with a large smile. No one questioned it. Pinkie Pie was Pinkie Pie.

“Neat trick, pony.” Everyone turned to see a large onyx scaled dragon. His eyes matched the glow and intensity of rubies, and he had a scar that run from the top of his head to the bottom of his jaw. His spines had the appearance of webbing and his tail ended with a fin-like tip. Standing on his hind legs, he was twice as tall as Spike when he stood up.

“I’m Leviathan; top rank bounty hunter and ruthless killer.” He gazed at Spike. “Nice to see another dragon that doesn’t look like another meal.” Spike gulped.

“Celestia, I will say it one more time. ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR MIND? I mean, you hired a bounty hunter! They’re only in it for the money! Not for the good of others!” Spike went from intimidated to hysterical. Snarling, Leviathan grabbed Spike and drove him face first into the wall.

“You’re right. I am only in it for the money, but without me, you all might as well dig your grave and write your pathetic will. You can either take my help and I get my payment, or die. Pick your poison, and drink the hell up.” Leviathan held Spike there for a moment.

“Well, I’m waiting. We haven’t got all day.” Spike nodded vigorously. “Good. Now shut the hell up and sit your hide down.” He tossed Spike onto the ground beside Rarity. Leviathan turned around to face Celestia. Snarling once more, he dashed at her, stopping in front of her.

“As for you, your ‘highness’, I’m only doing this because the pay is so high. If this was any other day, I would’ve enjoyed gutting you and devouring every last part. Now we’re gonna hunt the damn beast my way, and then I’m gonna kill it. I don’t give a damn if you wanted it alive to keep as a statue.” Twilight and her friends all took a large step back.

“Alright, we hunt in two hours. Grab your measly trinkets, ponies, and as for the dragon,” Leviathan turned to face Spike, “get the hell up and come with me. You’re not as feral as you need to be.” Spike scrambled to his feet as Twilight and the others watched him walk with Leviathan up the stairs.

“Well, he was a treat. You sure know how to choose ‘em Celly.” Discord said as he ascended the stairs along with Twilight and the others.

“I couldn’t take the chance that the Phantasm Kirin would be able to overcome the Elements. It had to be done.” Celestia said as she too ascended with the group, with Luna following soon after. As they exited the corridor, she muttered the phrase again, causing the throne to relocate back to its original spot.

“Twilight, you and your friends should grab the Elements of Harmony and get ready. This shall be your greatest challenge yet. Good luck, my little ponies.” Nodding, the gang headed off to prepare for the battle.

“I sure hope Spike is doing okay. Leviathan had no smile and I don’t think he wanted to help Spike nicely.” Pinkie Pie said as she clipped on her necklace.

“Ah hope so too, sugarcube. Spike’s a plenty dragon enough,” said Applejack as she brushed the dust of her hat. That room needed to be cleaned.

Soon, all the girls had their element equipped. Twilight did a head count to be certain all were present. Honesty, Laughter, Loyalty, Kindness, Generosity, and Magic were all together. When she was certain they were all there, she walked toward the window, taking in the view. If they failed this, Equestria would be terrorized forever. Sighing, she continued to stare at Equestria.

“We have to succeed. There’s too much at stake to fail, but what do you do when you have a weight of this magnitude on your shoulders?” She felt a hoof on her back. Turning, she saw Rainbow Dash.

“You stop carrying it alone.” Her friends all smiled, calming her down. Twilight looked at the clock, and then back at her friends.

“We have a lot of time to kill. So girls, any ideas?”

Spike followed Leviathan to the training ground. There, he saw two other dragons. Both appeared just as fearsome as Leviathan. Both dragons eyed him, exposing their teeth as they growled. Even though Spike was big by pony standard, he was nothing more than a leaf compared to the two hulking monsters. He did notice that one dragon was a lot more massive than Leviathan and the other one.

“Alright fresh meat, these are my boys. The smaller one’s Ripper. Mess with him, and his razor-sharp claws will decapitate you, no problem. The hulk of muscle over there’s Titan. Though I’m the most vicious, Titan is the most destructive. His tail can break mountains like twigs.” Leviathan said as the two stepped forward.

“Oh, lookie here. Thin little guy, aren’t cha? But the spines are aggressive. I like it.” Ripper said as his eye twitched. He was smaller than Leviathan and Titan, but with the combination of red scales and orange spines and horns protruding everywhere but his face, he looked like a mental patient.

“Scrawny piece of meat. Looks easily broken. But I won’t question Leviathan. He’s never made a wrong call on a dragon.” Titan had horns similar to a bull and the hardened skin on his back looked like a large shell. He came in grey with gold accents.

“What about the dragon guards?” Spike was still curious. Ripper cackled.

“You mean today’s meal?” Spike gulped heavily at those words.

“I never did catch your name.” Leviathan said as he growled. Spike said nothing since he was too scared to even blink. “Oh for the love of-, JUST GIVE ME A DAMN NAME.”

“Sp-sp-Spik-ke-ke….”

“Speak up and stop stuttering before I have Ripper here gut you like a turkey!”

“SPIKE! My name is Spike…sir.” Leviathan walked up to him, staring right into his eyes.

“Spike…not a bad name, if you were a pony. But you’re a dragon. A bloodthirsty beast at the top of the food chain. Do you even know what species of dragon you are?” Spike shook his head. For his entire life, he never knew what type of dragon he was. Titan looked at him for a moment.

“He’s an Amethyst Poison-Tip Dragon.” Spike was surprised at Titan’s knowledge, throwing any stereotypical personality he thought of out the door. However, it was his classification got him interested.

“Poison-Tip?” Spike asked Titan, slowly getting more accustomed to their presence.

“That explains how your spines grow and why your tail is a sharp spade. You are a balance between attack and defense. The poison your kind produces is highly potent, easily able to kill ponies and even some dragons in less than ten minutes. The poison does not develop until the adult stage.” Titan shifted his look to Leviathan, who began to circle around Spike. Small growls were heard as Spike looked at him, realizing that Titan was the nice one.

“Poison-Tip, huh. There may be hope for you, dragon food. But half the dragon is in the name.” Leviathan grabbed a passerby bird, driving it into one of Spike’s spines. On contact, blood flowed from the bird. It slowly began twitching as its eyes went green with toxins. In a matter of seconds, the bird was dead.

“Seems little Spikey just killed his first creature. The poison’s still lame compared to my claws.” Ripper said as he brandished them. Leviathan turned to him and growled.

“Shut it Ripper. Titan, go grab a bigger creature. Let’s see how this dragons fares on his own.” Titan jumped off into the Everfree Forest as soon as Leviathan gave the order. He then clutched Spike be the neck and raised him off the ground. “You’re going to kill whatever Titan brings back, and I don’t care if you like it or not.” Just as he finished his sentence, Titan came back with a bear.

“I won’t kill an innocent creature. I don’t care if you want me to. You intimidation won’t make me kill this bear.” Leviathan laughed at Spike’s stand, only to roar in his face.

“Perhaps I didn’t make it clear enough. You’re going to kill the damn bear. I didn’t ask if you wanted to. I said you had to. Now stop wasting time and get some blood on you claws!” Spike sank back. What would they say if he went through with this? No, that wasn’t an option.

Spike rose up, growling as he glared at Leviathan, “Maybe I didn’t make myself clear. I will not kill the bear. Now have Titan bring it back before I dig my tail into your heart…” Spike paused as he listened to what he just said. Leviathan cracked a small smirk as Titan launched the bear in the direction of the forest.

“That’s the beast I was looking for,” he said as he placed a claw on Spike’s shoulder. “It felt good to get the aggression out. You enjoyed it, and you want to do it again. You still have dragon blood in you, Neurotoxin.”

“This cannot be good.” Spike thought as he saw two, long, gruesome hours ahead.

Chapter III: Don't Trust Your Eyes

Leviathan stood in the throne room, smoke rising from his mouth as he waited impatiently. Ripper hung from the ceiling, prowling as he hungered for blood. Titan observed the stained glass, particularly finding interest in the one with Spike.

“They’ve got five more minutes before we hunt,” said Leviathan. “Titan, go get Neurotoxin.” Titan nodded as he walked off. As he left, the throne room doors opened. Twilight and the other elements had arrived.

“So, this is the dead weight we get to tug around? I’d rather eat ‘em now.” Ripper plunged down in front of the ponies, extending his claws. Leviathan growled as he rushed forward, punching Ripper and sending the red dragon across the room. Approaching him, Leviathan grabbed Ripper by the neck, lifting him off the ground.

“You lay a claw on any of them, and we lose the money. That was the deal, and I aim to keep my word. Even I know when not to kill. Control your bloodlust until the hunt.” Ripper nodded slightly, prompting Leviathan to put him down. Leviathan then turned his attention to the ponies.

“Let’s make one thing clear. I’m the leader of this hunt. Any problems?” Nopony said a word. “We’re going to kill the beast, which also means you have to kill it if given the chance. I don’t care if you think it’s wrong. If you have the opportunity to rid the world of the bastard, go for it.” As Leviathan finished, Titan came into the room. Behind him, was Spike.

“Hey everypony…” Twilight and the others let out a small gasp at the sight of Spike. His scales looked hardened, his spines were sharper, and he was riddled with scars. Green smoke emanated from the outer corners of his eyes. He began to tilt forward as he entered the room.

“What have you done to Spike?” Twilight said as she rushed to catch him before he collapsed. Titan looked down at her, a stern look on his face.

“We made him into the killer he was meant to be, and his name isn’t Spike anymore. His name is Neurotoxin.” Titan said, looking at Leviathan.

“His name is Spike, not Neurotoxin. You can call him that, but we will address him as Spike,” Twilight said. Titan was about to talk back, but Leviathan stopped him.

“Alright, enough with the name. We need to leave now. Ripper and Titan, go ahead into the Everfree and see if you can pick up anything on the Kirin. The rest of you, we search the mountains.”

The mountains weren’t the best place for anypony to be at. Even though it was far from the Everfree forest, timber wolves still scoured the area, intent on finding a wayward traveler to gorge on. Fluttershy, though not as timid as before, still felt uneasy traveling to areas with feral animals. So Spike agreed to stay with her at all times.

“The terrain is expansive, and sticking together would make finding the Kirin a treacherous process. So we need to split up into pairs of two.” Leviathan said as he inhaled to cool air.

“But Princess Celestia said-“ Twilight began, but Leviathan cut her off with a growl.

“I said we’re hunting this thing my way. Besides, if any of the groups find it, they can give a signal.” Leviathan glared at the lot of them. He still didn’t understand what power Celestia had to make these ponies obey her. He was confident that he could eviscerate the princess.

Twilight was about to talk back, but a claw on her mouth silenced her. Spike had decided to step forward, standing on his hind legs. He returned the glare; eyes radiating like an emerald. Leviathan noticed and walked forward, stopping right in front of Spike.

“Is there an issue, Neurotoxin? Do you forget who you obey on this hunt?” Spike shook his head, snarling before he spoke.

“Princess Celestia said the elements need to stay together. You can split from the group and search on your own, but I won’t let you force them to obey you. What if we did listen to you and the Phantasm Kirin was here? Together, we make a formidable adversary to the Kirin, yet you are so bent on money, that you do not even acknowledge your own fear of the creature and your safety with this group.” Leviathan puffed smoke out of his nostrils. Spike extended his claws, ready to attack.

“Hmph, suite yourselves. I plan on living through this experience. Go ahead and find the Kirin. I’ll be there to clean up after you fail,” said Leviathan, who turned and jump further into the mountainous area. Spike sighed as Leviathan disappeared from sight.

“Spike, that was mighty fine of you to take a stand like that,” said Applejack. “You sure showed that hunter who’s boss.”

“I must agree with Applejack, dear. That was a valiant action,” said Rarity. Spike blushed slightly.

“Anyways, we should continue searching. Keep on your guard, no matter what,” said Spike. Everypony nodded. The search for the Phantasm Kirin had truly begun.

“I’m telling you; we should kill the ponies now, including the princesses and the psycho hybrid thing.”

“It’s a draconequus, and I have to say no. Leviathan said not to do anything, and I intend to stay on his good side.”

“If you consider this a good side, but you gotta point. Last dragon to disobey a direct order got…”

“The word Kill would be an extreme understatement.” Titan and Ripper conversed as they searched the Everfree. Ripper cleared foliage, leaving the large boulders and heavy objects to the wrecking power of Titan.

As they continued to make their way through the dense forest, Ripper couldn’t shake the feeling that they were being watched. From the time they entered till now, the rustling of leaves and the sworn sound of electricity created an uneasy feeling for Ripper. Contrasting, Titan never sensed a thing.

“Titan, I don’t feel so safe here…”

“It’s Everfree, Ripper. Everything here can make anyone feel like that. The problem is, you’re not just anyone, you’re a dragon, not to mention the least sane one. You crave blood, constantly putting yourself in danger to get a thrill.”

“Fair enough.”

“Of course it is. Now stop freaking out and keep looking.”

“Alright then.” Ripper said with a toothy grin.

“Damn ponies and their damn elements. I’m beginning to regret not taking Ripper up on that offer…” Leviathan searched, allowing nothing to stop him. He was going to find the Kirin, and kill it. Anything that moved in his sight would be dispatched.

“I hope Ripper and Titan are having some luck, cause I can’t find a trace. No scent, no tracks, no thunderbolt marks; nothing at all. I don’t know why I even took this hunt. The Kirin only bothers the ponies, so it’s their problem, not mine. Besides, I still don’t know why they obey Celestia anyways.” Leviathan ranted, agitated that nothing belonging to the Phantasm Kirin showed up. He squinted up towards the sky. The sun was a little off noontime. Grunting, he continued his search.

“Once I get my claws on the bastard, I’ll take great pleasure killing it slowly.”

“I’d like to see you try, bounty hunter.” Leviathan stopped dead in his tracks. He whipped around, listening for the sound of the voice. He couldn’t pick up a scent.

“WHERE ARE YOU? COME OUT HERE AND FIGHT, COWARD!”

“I would gladly take up the opportunity to impale your smug mouth, but I’m not necessarily here.”

“Damn Phantasm Kirin, using telepathy to make contact. ARE YOU AFRAID THAT I’LL TEAR YOU LIMB FROM LIMB?”

“Of course not, but I know you’re afraid.”

“Me? Afraid? Leviathan fears nothing.” Leviathan’s volume dropped, realizing that no matter how loud he shouted, the Kirin wouldn’t come.

“Not afraid? Don’t lie to yourself. Everyone has fear. The only question is, of what?” Azure mist began to rise from the rocks. Leviathan backed away, but his efforts were futile. The mist sped toward him, enveloping him.

“You want to fight me? So be it. Though, it is quite pathetic.” The mist slowly raised him off the ground.

“How is it pathetic that I want to kill you?”

“Because-“ The mist began to cover Leviathan’s eyes.

“Suicide is the coward’s way out.”

“♪  Oh here we all are, travelling afar, on search for a thunder horsey!”-

“Pinkie…”

“♪ Here we all are, without a car, to set Equestria free!” –

“Pinkie.”

“♪ And when we find the Kirin, we’ll all be grinnin’, as we trap him in the stone!” –

“PINKIE.”

“♪ After the Kirin falls, we’ll shout a battle call, and go home and have a super-awesome-mega-funtime-best-cakefilled-astounding-astonishing-magnificent-breathtaking-hoofbusting-dragonriding-pink coloured party of the YEAR!” –

“PINKIE!”

“♪ And it’ll all start with eating Spike! ♫”

“What.” Everyone but Pinkie and Spike face hoofed. When Pinkie broke into random musical songs, there was no stopping her. Plus, the song would make no sense at all. Through it all, Pinkie would have a large smile.

“Can you repeat the last part, Pinkie? I couldn’t hear it over the FEAR FOR DEAR LIFE.” Spike was cowering behind Fluttershy. Pinkie laughed as she playfully swatted in the direction of Spike with her hoof.

“Ah don’t think Pinkie meant it.” Applejack said, smiling a bit.

“How do you know that? She’s Pinkie Pie! Anything can mean anything!” The girls all laughed at Spike’s little moment. After all the giggles were gone, the group continued to search.

“Oh, how I wish this search would end. These rocks are poison to my hooves.” Rarity said, making sure not to step on any unwanted material. She still valued her appearance, even after all these years. Some ponies just never change.

“I also wish this was over. At any moment, a timber wolf pack could pounce on us and…and…oh, I don’t want to think about it!” Fluttershy hid her face beneath her hair and covered everything with her wings. Spike sighed as he stood up and picked Fluttershy up, cradling her in his arms. Everyone let out an ‘Awww’, minus the Rainbow Dash.

“Bleh, I don’t get why you guys can have these moments. I’m too awesome to even bother.” Rainbow Dash said, crossing her hooves while flying.

“That’s not what I saw when you left Tank in Spike’s care during his gem situation years back.” Twilight smirked as an embarrassed Dash turned away.

“We should keep searching,” said Rainbow, trying to draw attention away from her red face. Twilight nodded. She’d stop pestering Dash. For now.

“Spike? Pick up anything?” Twilight asked as she and the group continued to look.

“Nothing. No scent trail at all. Rainbow, anything up there?” Spike looked up. Rainbow Dash did a short fly over the immediate area. She returned, landing and shaking her head.

“Nothing I can see,” said Rainbow as she sprawled out on the cold stone surface. “This is ridiculous! How can we find something that doesn’t leave anything behind?”

“You stop using your eyes.” Twilight said, her horn glowing with magic.

“What do you mean?” Spike asked skeptically.

“Think about it. The Kirin can create realistic illusions, correct? What would stop it from messing with our minds and creating a false sense of surroundings?” Twilight touched the ground with her horn, sending a magical wave throughout the area.

“I would agree, but the Kirin makes phantasms. The illusions show your darkest fear,” said Spike.

”That would be true, if that was the only definition for phantasm. It can also be a illusory mental image, known as a phantasma.” As Twilight finished her sentence, the landscape began to distort. Beside the group carved in the mountain lay a cave.

“Where the hay did that cave come from? It wasn’t there last time Ah checked.” Applejack and the others looked at the cave, seeing nothing but darkness.

“You mean it was there the whole time?” asked Fluttershy, finally revealing her face and coming out of Spike’s arms.

“Yes. What we all failed to rememeber was that the Kirin can make illusions. We can’t trust sight to guide us to it,” said Twilight.

“We should let Leviathan know we found it.” Spike said, approaching the mouth of the cave.

“Oh, I wouldn’t go looking for him.” Everyone jumped, hearing the voice.

“It’s the Kirin, but it’s not here. It’s using telepathy,” said Twilight.

“Well done, Twilight. It seems you can see right through my deception. You cannot trust just your eyes.”

“Why don’t you come out and fight? We can take you!” Rainbow Dash said, putting her hooves up in a combat position. The Kirin laughed.

“My, my, aren’t we cocky? That’s exactly what the dragon said. Where is he now? Enter the cave and see for yourself.” Spike gulped. “Go ahead Spike, see what has become of a fellow dragon.”

“Spike, you don’t have to do this. Leviathan wouldn’t do that for you,” said Twilight.

“I don’t care if he wouldn’t do the same for me. He’s a dragon, and whether I like him or not, I won’t abandoned one of my kin,” said Spike, smoke floating from his nostrils. Opening his mouth, he let out a burst of emerald flames. The fire licked at the walls of the cave, illuminating the darkness, but only for a moment.

“If you’re going, then we’ll come with you.” Twilight said, sparking her horn to create a source of steady light. Everyone went into the cave, except Fluttershy.

“I think I should stay here and-EEK!” Fluttershy was grabbed by Pinkie.

“C’mon silly! We need to stick together! Like frosting on cake! Mmm…cake.”

“Pinkie, focus.” Spike said as the group moved onward into the cave.

“We’ve been searching forever. FOREVER. I’m tired, I’m hungry, I need to take a sh-“

“Ripper!”

“But I do!”

“I don’t need to know that.” Titan followed behind Ripper as he slashed through the shrubbery. They had trudged through the dense Everfree Forest, but had found no sign of the Kirin. Titan suggested they head back, knowing that if they continued, there wouldn’t be an Everfree to search. Ripper agreed, and began to carve a way back.

“I wonder if Leviathan and the meat had any luck finding the beast.” Ripper said, finally reaching the entrance of the forest. Titan gazed in the direction of the mountains.

“We should head back to Canterlot. Leviathan can hold his own, and Neurotoxin is lethal as well.”

“Can we get something to eat first? I’m starving!” Ripper said, patting his orange underbelly.

The group  had gone deep into the cave. It was a straightforward path, give or take a few obstacles. Twilight provide light behind the group, and Rarity lead the group with her light. Spike was at the front, ready to help should anything attack. Fluttershy hid behind Pinkie Pie, who was bouncing. Rainbow Dash and Applejack stayed with Twilight.

“What do y’all think happened to the bounty hunter? Ah reckon that it can’t be good,” said Applejack.

“Let’s place bets! I bet that-“ Pinkie started, but was stopped by Rainbow.

“Pinkie, your Pinkie sense and your crazy predictions make this unfair. Nopony or dragon is making a bet.” Pinkie just smiled. As they ventured forth, sounds began to surface. Cracks of lightning, a fear-filled voice, and scratching echoed down the cave.

Suddenly, Rarity stopped. Her light began to die down at the sight before her. Twilight stepped up, shining light onto the scene. Once proper visible, the entire group stepped back.

“Is that…Leviathan?” Spike gazed at a heavily wounded onyx dragon.

Leviathan lay against the wall, blood trickling from everywhere on his body. His claws had been torn out and he was stricken everywhere. Smoke rose from his chest, indicating he had been struck with lightning. He had a gaping hole in his right shoulder, meaning that he was impaled. However, he wasn’t dead.

“We need to get him back to the castle!” Spike ran and draped Leviathan’s body over his shoulder. Twilight nodded as the group huddled. With Twilight’s horn aglow, the group raced against time as they teleported to the castle.

Chapter IV: The Heart Within All Things

Leviathan lay in the infirmary, breathing steadily. He was bandaged around his shoulder and on his clawless hands. He wasn’t conscious, but he was alive. Fluttershy was the one to assure his well-being.

Ripper and Titan entered the room. Once they sighted Leviathan, they rushed to his side. They were followed by Spike, the rest of the pony gang, and Celestia. Spike had told Ripper and Titan of the encounter with the Kirin, so they were well aware of Leviathan’s current situation.

“How’s he doing, Fluttershy?” Spike asked, still looking at Leviathan.

“He’s fine. He’ll make a full recovery.” Fluttershy said as she stayed near Leviathan’s head.

“This is the first time I’ve seen Leviathan like this. I’m gonna bug him about this forever,” said Ripper, who laughed slightly. His laugh was cut short at the sound of a weak growl.

“You… do that… and I’ll… make sure… to beat… you… into... hell.” Leviathan said, regaining consciousness. He couldn’t say things in his regular tone, but he wasn’t mute. His vision wasn’t recovered yet either.

“I guess the Kirin didn’t change your grumpy-pants attitude. We’ll win you over yet.” Pinkie Pie said with a smile, earning an annoyed groan from Leviathan. He rubbed his eyes, trying to get a good look at his surroundings. However, it was no use, and the bandages just irritated his eyes. Leviathan stopped and let his sight recover naturally.

Once Leviathan could finally see, he was mildly surprised at the castle’s infirmary. Dozens of clean white cots lined the room in rows and columns. Beside each bed was a polished wood end table with an empty glass. Each glass was held stationary by a cylindrical device. The end table also had an ivory lamp.

Leviathan shifted in the cot, feeling a built-in heater and two metal mechanisms. He assumed these added a sort of chair-like feature if he wanted to sit upright. The two items were controlled by a remote on the side of the cot. Yes, the infirmary was over glorified.

“I’m thirsty.” Leviathan said, pushing a green button. As the top side of the cot began to push up, he gazed at his glass. “Well? Who the hell’s going to fill the glass?”

“Hey, just cause you’re injured and weak doesn’t mean we’re your servants. Besides, we don’t need to fill the glass,” said Rainbow Dash, who was mildly irritated at Leviathan’s request. Leviathan growled, until he saw the glass fill with water. As Rainbow said, no one did anything.

As Leviathan lifted the glass, he inspected the bottom. There was a small hole, but nothing was leaking. He noticed that within the cylindrical compartment was a small tube. Gravity seemed to keep the hole closed, until one had their fill and set it back. Lowering the glass down to his mouth, he took a long, long drink. Finishing, he set his glass back down. He then turned to Spike.

“Neurotoxin, how long was I out for?”

“About an hour or so. If we had gotten to you any later, you would have bled out. Twilight got us here in time to get you patched up,” said Spike. Leviathan nodded slightly.

“You know, a ‘thank you’ would be appropriate for this situation,” said Rarity. Leviathan growled lowly.

“I don’t do ‘thank you’. I don’t thank anyone, let alone a group of ponies.” Rarity seemed appalled at his response, but Twilight stepped in before a lecture began.

“We’re just glad you’re alright,” said Twilight.

“Hmph, if you call this, ‘alright’.” Leviathan said as he cracked his neck.

“Ah don’t think there’s any need for that attitude right now.” Applejack said sternly. Leviathan gave a curt chuckle.

“You saved my life. Congratulations, or whatever. This changes nothing, pony. I’m a damn bounty hunter. I can have whatever attitude I want,” said Leviathan. Titan and Ripper looked at each other, understanding their partner’s view. After all, they were all bounty hunters.

“Leviathan, care to share what happened?” Spike asked, sitting down on a nearby cot. Leviathan turned his head away from Spike.

“I don’t want to talk about it,” said Leviathan. Ripper looked at Titan. The two exchanged looks and turned back to Leviathan.

“Boss, there’s nothing to be ashamed about. It was a Kirin, and all of us know how strong that thing can be.” Ripper tried to coax Leviathan, but nothing came from the onyx drake.

“Leviathan, we are bounty hunters, and we have a certain pride to uphold. However, we cannot wish to beat something we know so little about. Yes, we know how it got here and the power it possess. We’ve heard tales of the Kirin’s abilities, but we do not know its full capabilities. The princesses have only tasted phantasms, but you’ve experienced it in its entirety,” said Titan. Leviathan sighed and turned his head back to Spike.

“…I understand. I’ll tell you what I can remember. Take a seat, all of you. This might take a while. We can start from after I left the group."

"Once the ponies and Neurotoxin went their way, I decided to scout another area. I came into telepathic contact with the damned Kirin. We bantered before a mist covered my eyes and carried me away.

“That’s all? A mist covered you and then you got beaten? Pretty lame for a bounty hunter.” Rainbow Dash said, earning a grunt from Leviathan.

“The mist covered my eyes, so I wasn’t able to see where I was being taken. I knew I was moving, but I didn’t know where…”

The mist carried Leviathan, drifting for what felt like hours. Finally, the mist settled, allowing sight to the drake once more. Leviathan gazed at Everfree Forest. He turned back, but all he could see was rock. Inhaling, he took in the scent of the air.

“…I’m not in the mountains.” The obvious conclusion hit, wavering the bounty hunter slightly. Leviathan focused his attention back on the forest, only to be met with a large, purple cloud with two red eyes peering through. On instinct, Leviathan’s claws flashed out as he slashed at the cloud. A laugh became audible.

“Dearest Leviathan, you know better than to strike at air.”

“You’re right, but air can be frozen!” Leviathan dashed back, hitting his tail against the ground as he curved his head. Opening his jaw, he released a frosty blast. The frozen fury hit, incasing the cloud in an icy prison. Leviathan quickly dashed forward and slashed the ice, shattering it. His breathing was heavy, but he gained satisfaction at the sight of the broken ice.

“Pathetic. I’ll gather up your remains and deliver the shards to Celestia. I get my payment, and I can finally be free of this…” Leviathan approached the shards, “You know, for an omnipotent monster, I expected better.”

“And how can one be certain I am gone?” The shards began to levitate and gravitate into one place. As more ice was added, the crystals began to take form. Leviathan jumped back, growling.

“How can you still be alive?”

“There is much you do not know and much you will never be able to comprehend. I am no simple monster. I am no simple threat. You wish to know what I am?” The form of a massive unicorn stood before Leviathan, crimson eyes glaring at him, “I am a *GOD.*”

“Even gods fall, Kirin.” Leviathan dashed forward once more, his claws aimed at the frozen form of the Kirin. Chuckling, the Kirin broke apart, evading Leviathan’s attack. The shards rebuilt behind the dragon. The Kirin’s horn lit up with azure sparks. As Leviathan turned around, he was struck by a bolt of lightning, sending him to the ground.

“You cannot win. None of you can win. The Royal Sisters may have trapped me once, but that shall never happen again. The new wielders of the Elements of Harmony will not prevail against the Phantasm Kirin, and neither will your fellow dragons.” Leviathan struggled to get up as the Kirin boasted. Quicker than the blink of an eye, the icy hoof of the Kirin pressed on the hunter’s chest.

“I… will… kil-” Leviathan was cut off as the hoof pressed down with tremendous force.

“How fitting that you die, just as your father and mother did before you.”

“I’m not dying today… I’M NOT DYING TO YOU!” Leviathan grabbed the Kirin’s hoof, digging his claws into the ice. The ice gave way and broke, allowing Leviathan to recover and get up. As the shards began to reattach themselves to the Kirin, Leviathan advanced, punching the beast in the chest and sending it flying. He ran forward, leaping into the air. He made contact with the flying Kirin, smacking it toward the earth with his tail. As it descended, Leviathan dived toward it, hitting the body once more and jumping up, forcing the Kirin to fall faster. With pure wrath in his eyes, Leviathan unleashed a large beam of ice, enveloping the Kirin in his cold fury.

Leviathan landed before the newly made tundra, catching his breath. Looking at the landscape, he couldn’t see the Kirin, but a pile of snow that lay in the center caught his eye. With claws prepared to strike, he cautiously approached the white mound. As he drew closer, the snow began to move. Swiftly, he lunged, placing his claw firmly in the center of the pile.

“Nothing. No body. No ice traces.” Leviathan walked off the snow pile. Gazing once more in the direction of the Everfree Forest, he located the Canterlot Castle. He was about to make his way back when a laugh was heard. Hesitantly, the hunter turned around, only to be met with a strong blow to his face, which knocked him down.

“You had hope, didn’t you? You had hoped I was gone; lost in the cold wrath of your relentless chill, but you forgot what I said. I am no mere monster. *I am a GOD.*” Leviathan’s vision began to blur. The last thing visible was a pair of piercing, crimson eyes…

“Is that all you can remember?” asked Spike. Leviathan nodded.

“It is…” Leviathan’s voice trailed off, causing Celestia to question him.

“You’re lying. You remember more.” Celestia said, receiving a low growl as a response.

“Listen, ‘your highness’, I swear that’s everything.” Celestia shook her head. The draconic bounty hunter was hiding something more, and if they ever hoped to defeat the Phantasm Kirin, they had to know everything.

“Leviathan, I know you’re hiding something. You must remember more. Is it too difficult to recall?”

“…”

“While silence is golden, that will not help this situation. I assure you, we will not judge you.”

Leviathan sighed.

“You want to know how I got the hole in my shoulder, don’t you. Fine…”

**"MOM! NO! YOU CAN’T GO! YOU CAN’T LEAVE ME AND DAD! PLEASE!”* A small onyx drake cried as a white figure removed its horn from the chest of a larger dragon. With tears in his, the young drake cried, “Please don’t go…” Blood flowed from the puncture as the female dragon collapsed, giving a loud roar as she went down. The rain fell on the corpse as the thunder boomed in the background.*

“YOU MONSTER! YOU DARE TREAD INTO FROST DRAKE TERRITORY, TRESPASSING ON OUR SACRED GROUND! YOU SLAUGHTER MY KIN AND NOW HAVE EVEN LAID MY LOVE ON DEATH’S BED! I WILL NEVER FORGIVE THIS, AND YOU SHALL PERISH FOR YOUR ACTIONS!” An even larger dragon declared battle on the white figure as the young drake watched through the tears.

“How quaint. You threaten to kill me, even after I killed your people. What makes you think that you’d be a match for me?” The figure laughed as it advanced, knocking the dragon back. Laughing once more, it released a barrage of thunderbolts from the prominent horn it adorned. The dragon stood no chance, and it died.

“Mom… Dad… Please don’t leave me alone…”

Leviathan turned away from the group. Spike was able to see a lone tear travel along the scar on his face. Turning back, the group could see the moisture on the hardened bounty hunter’s face.

“…it replayed that memory, over and over and over again. The Kirin spoke the truth. I did have something to fear. I did fear losing my parents. When it happened, I broke. I wished to die alongside them, but the Kirin let me live with it. I soon outgrew this fear, but another one took its place…” Leviathan focused on Ripper and Titan…

“RIPPER! STAY STRONG! YOU BETTER NOT DIE ON ME!” Leviathan rushed to a scorched dragon. Titan was already examining the damage. Ripper had been stormed by lightning, and although the bloodlust of him was unbreakable, he stood little chance against the Kirin.

“Heh…” Ripper coughed up some blood, grinning, “I’m not dying on you, boss. I’m dying for you. My death won’t affect the mission that much…”

“Sh-Sh-Shut the hell up, Ripper… You are not dying at all. Not while I can still fight.” Leviathan said, lifting Ripper into his arms.

“Just leave me he-”

“I SAID SHUT THE HELL UP!” Leviathan shouted. “We made a deal, remember? We may be bounty hunters, but we do not leave anyone in this group behind…” Ripper smiled.

“I… have to disobey…” Ripper began. “Now run, you cocky bastard… and don’t you die… on… me…” The chaotic dragon let out a final breath, and slumped into a lifeless position.

“…don’t leave us…”

“As strong as I am… I’m nothing without you two. Sure, I could pull off some jobs, but I’d be on death’s row every time. With you two, there was no such thing as death… So the thought of losing either of you to something I could’ve prevented…” Leviathan was unable to finish his sentence, for a certain red dragon was hugging him.

“Shut the hell up… Leviathan…” Ripper said, tears flowing from his eyes. Titan shifted his gaze to look at Celestia, tears forming in his own eyes.

“In his moment of weakness, the Kirin impaled him, but not to kill him. The Kirin wanted to toy with Leviathan a little longer. It wants to play with us all.” Titan said, fighting the urge to cry. It was at that moment everyone understood that beneath even cold blooded killers, lay a heart.

Chapter V: Immortalized By Night

Luna traversed the dream realm. Though the night had not come as of yet, she could still gander around. A miniscule amount of dreams scattered the area. Gazing into each dream, she could see the same nightmare since the return of the Phantasm Kirin.

“I do hope this ends soon. I grow weary of watching such wretched scenes.” Luna thought, still staring into the flames that engulfed the landscapes. The horrified cries of ponies flooded her conscious, making her feel somewhat responsible for allowing a monster have an advantage over her, in her own realm no less. As guilty as she felt, she knew she could do little to help.

“Kirin, why have you wrought such torment on us?”

“Do not ask what has already been answered, Princess Luna.” Luna spun around, greeted by the sight of a tall, purple shadow with a white smile. Slowly, the dreams began to fade as the entirety of the dream realm became dark.

“Revenge should be below Kirin. Think of your ancestors. Would they be proud of you?” Luna asked, remaining calm. The Kirin let out a low laugh, flashing those crimson eyes at her.

“I’m certain they could voice their opinion if they still lived. I lack such a luxury to live with one of my own, and I have your subjects to thank for it.” The smile had disappeared; replaced by a solid expression.

“But during the massacre, your kind did not fight back. They did not seek revenge.”

“Of course they couldn’t seek revenge. They were dead.”

“You misunderstand. The Kirin only wanted to bring the races together, and even accepted the thought of dying in the process. You wish to torture others for the suffering they caused you. That is no Kirin, but a monster.” The Phantasm Kirin began to grimace, showing a slight bit of annoyance.

“You are at no position to speak, Nightmare Moon. Who was it that grew jealous of her sister? Who was it that let that jealousy corrupt them? Who was it that wanted to bring eternal night? You have the gall to point out my flaws when you are no saint.” Luna stepped back, but quickly regained composure. The words stung, but that did not waver the princess.

“I was but a child then. I put such petty emotions behind me now, so why can’t you do the same? You’ve lived longer than my sister and I, yet you cannot let the past go? I am everything but a saint. That much is true. But I’ve learned from my trials, so why can’t you do the same?” The Kirin’s eyes began to glow as it became agitated.

“You had a childhood. You grew up with the comfort of family. As I emerged from my mother’s womb, I fell onto a bloody battlefield. I watched my mother struggle for life, only to lose it. I viewed the corpse of my father and the decaying hides of my brothers and sisters, and you wonder why I want to see your land suffer?” Luna’s eyes began to glow white as she braced herself for an attack. To her surprise, thought the Kirin had a displeased look on its face, it never attacked.

“I suggest you rise now, Luna. This isn’t merely an illusion within your mind…”

Luna’s eyes shot open as she sat up. She had fallen asleep, a risky move, after Twilight and the others returned with a badly wounded Leviathan. She shifted her eyes to her window. The sun hadn’t even reached the noontime position. How she longed for the day to be over. She continued to stare out the window, a yawn escaping her mouth. The sun’s light brought peace to the troubled princess, until the tranquility was broken by the sound of hooves. Luna turned, only to meet the eyes of an unwanted guest.

“…you.”

“Me.” Luna sat on her bed, petrified at what she saw before her. There, in the flesh, stood a tall slender figure. Its fur was black with glowing red marks along its body, the glow synchronized with its eyes. Its white mane flowed like the Royal Sisters’ mane did. The horn it bore was black, but was tinted with purple.

Luna was staring at the Phantasm Kirin itself.

“You’ve… changed since last we met… but how did you get here?”

“You act like this is the first time I’ve been in these chambers. It was a well-kept secret, was it not? You even managed to fool Princess Celestia. Shame. Shame. Shame.” The Kirin walked toward Luna’s bed. On reflex, Luna kicked up the covers and shot a magical blast through them. The Kirin shook its head as it intercepted the magic with its horn, absorbing the blast, “You of all ponies should know better than to aggravate a Kirin.”

“Leave now, demonspawn, or face our unending wrath.”  Luna opened her wings and ascended from her bed as the Kirin stopped walking forward. The expression of annoyance that Luna had seen in her slumber disappeared, replaced with a smile.

“Such a loud voice. Reminds me of an even louder one from the past.”

“We warned thee to never speak of that day as long as thee can draw breath.” Luna said, her eyes glowing white. The Kirin laughed a bit, only to match the vibrant white glow with its own intense crimson one. Three dark purple rings began to surround the Kirin’s horn. One by one, the rings flew off. With no time to react, Luna found herself latched onto by the rings, which had grown in size and surrounded her horn, her mouth, and her wings. Once completely attached, Luna’s wings began to feel heavy.

“What have you done?” Luna’s voice decreased in volume due to the ring that bonded her mouth. To the average pony, this would sound like mumbles, but the Kirin understood perfectly. Luna’s wings began to droop as she was dragged down. Every time she would get a little higher, the weight became heavier. She wanted to strike back with her own magic, but the ring around her horn absorbed any energy that emerged.

“There’s no use fighting it, my dear Luna. Soon you will fall. You shall fall here, just like you fell those many ages ago…”

Fall, oh beautiful moon,

Fall, to your coming doom.

Fall, for you see,

Fall, you belong to me…

That poem, how Luna hated it. She fell before the Kirin, her wings now pinned down as she took a bowing position. The Kirin smiled as it lowered its head next to Luna’s ear.

“Oh how you loved those four lines. You’ve spent centuries trying to put our encounter behind you, when I can bring it back in seconds.” The Kirin whispered. Luna stared down. For the longest time, no one mention of her relationship to the Kirin. Like the fiend said, it was a well-kept secret. Those who got too close to knowing the truth were either brainwashed or exterminated on the spot; such things a princess would want to forget. Yes, during the youth of her rule, she did cut a few ponies’ lives short. Celestia once caught her in the act, but to her surprise, her sister simply never asked why. Most of those who searched for the connection were criminals on death’s row; ones who wanted to see the Royal Sisters fall. Besides, Luna dispatched them without the use of brute force. Celestia assumed that Luna was saving them from public humiliation and a death that one could see.

“…why now? Why be released from your prison now? Why must you bring torment to my friends?” Luna continued to stare down, avoiding the gaze of the Kirin.

“You really shouldn’t be asking questions when you already hold the answers, Luna. I can, however, see your honest curiousity when it comes to my revival.” The Kirin smiled, using its hoof to raise Luna’s head up to meet its eyes, “How about I just show you?”

With those words, Luna began to feel her hooves going numb. Her wings felt free and arched up, but froze in a stretched out position. She looked down, only to see a gray colour climb up her legs. She realized what was happening, and desperately hoped that she was hallucinating.

Princess Luna was slowly turning into stone.

As the Kirin turned away, it said, “I wonder who will free you of your prison? Surely, you believe the Elements of Harmony will cut your shackles?” it slowly walked away from Luna, “Oh Luna, how I wish it didn’t have to come to this. You could’ve ruled with me ages ago. Imagine an eternal night where everyone would be able to see your beauty and nopony would dare ignore it. Alas, that can no longer be done. I gave you that chance, and you rejected it. So, now you must be trapped. Farewell, my beautiful moon. May your light forever shine on your people.” The Kirin faded as it walked away, leaving Luna to succumb to the petrification. However, with the Kirin gone, the ring her horn faded, allowing her to use her magic for the few moments she still had. She couldn’t break free of the spell, and the stone had already covered her mouth. With her last moments, she wrote a letter and sent it, hoping it would reach its intended recipient.

“The Kirin may have claimed victory over me, but he forgot about one small thing…”

After the tears were shed, Leviathan regained his cruel personality, vowing that if anypony spoke of his breakdown, he’d freeze them to death. Ripper didn’t care, seeing as if anything spoke of it, they wouldn’t get past the first sentence. Titan almost shed a tear, but was able to hold it in. Sighing, Twilight and the rest of the group decided to leave the bounty hunters in the infirmary.

“That went relatively well… ish.” Spike remarked as they exited.

“Eeyup. Considering that them hunters barely showed much at all to start with,” said Applejack. Everyone was in agreement. That incident was probably the most they’d get in terms of emotions when it came to the dragon trio.

“How dare he threaten us? Such terrible manners. I was hoping we would at least get some gratitude,” said Rarity. Obviously, ladies don’t like to be threatened.

“I don’t mind bad manners if the other option is…” Fluttershy shuddered at the thought.

“I’m sure we can reach them some other way.” Twilight said as they walked down the hall.

“Maybe if we got some ge-” Spike was about to suggest a plan before he was interrupted by a familiar feeling. His stomach began to growl as his cheeks puffed up. With a loud belch and a flash of emerald, a scroll with a crescent moon seal materialized from the dragon’s flames. Recovering, Spike caught the letter.

“Celestia, why would Luna send Spike a letter if she could just tell us what she wanted to say? We’re in the castle,” said Twilight, as she and the others examined the scroll. Celestia suddenly became distraught. Quickly, she took the letter and opened it. As she read, she looked at the group, panic in her eyes.

“We must get to my sister’s chamber immediately.” The urgency could not be made clearer. Still holding the letter with magic, Celestia and the group rushed toward the room of Princess Luna.

Celestia wasted no time and barged through the door. As everypony caught up, they were all stopped dead in their tracks.

“What the hay…” Applejack was the first one to speak as they all gathered their thoughts. Celestia walked forward, placing her hoof on the petrified Luna, who was now completely composed of stone. Celestia noticed tears coming from her sister’s eyes, which had also been turned to stone. Slowly, she gave the letter to Spike, who read it aloud.

> Dearest Sister,

By the time Spike receives this, I have already been turned to stone by the Kirin. I was too weak to face it. This is no surprise, as a Kirin is a powerful being. The issue is that I never put up a true fight, and there is a reason behind this; a reason I have kept from you for centuries.

When we first encountered the Kirin, we were held captive as we were exposed to our worst fears. That is what you believed, and that is what I went with. However, I believe it is time to tell you what really happened.

After we were held captive, the Kirin gave you phantasms, but spared me the terror. Instead, it showed me reality. It showed me the ponies asleep during my wondrous night, and that stirred jealousy within me. It said it could- wait- HE said he would make sure to give me the respect I deserved if I joined him. I abruptly refused, so he went to another form of persuasion.

I don’t know what it was. Was it his flowing mane? Was it his dazzling, azure-tinted, and white fur? Was it his intriguing ruby eyes? Was it his power? I’ll never know, but I know it was mutual and sincere. It pains me to say this, but I had an intimate relation that day with the Kirin. I know it’s sudden and seems ridiculous, but it is true. I understand if you cannot forgive my lust-filled desire.

With the Kirin’s magic intertwined with mine, I became pregnant. You never noticed it as I cast my own illusion spell. Once more, please forgive me. A few months later, I conceived a child. It was no alicorn, unicorn, earth pony, or pegasus. It was an infant Kirin. I know it holds the memories of the Phantasm Kirin, but it also holds memories of mine. In secret, I took care of it, releasing it beyond the Everfree Forest when it reached the age of a teenager. I know not of where it resides now, but if you look hard enough, I’m sure you’ll find it.

There is no guarantee that this child will be able to defeat its father, nor prophecy that claims for him to be the chosen one. I do know, however, that the child is one of our best option against the Kirin. I cannot say that it will remember me, so you may have a fight to deal with. Its name is Lunar Blaze. As the name suggests, its gift is fire. I also know that it cannot speak verbally.

Seek my child. Together with the Elements of Harmony, the dragons, Discord, and yourself, you will be able to finally vanquish this menace.

I wish you luck, Celestia, and if I am never freed from my stone prison, I want you to know…

I love you,

Princess Luna

“…” The room was silent as Spike finished the last word. Tears had formed in Celestia’s eyes as she cast herself on her sister’s statue. Twilight looked at her friends as they all took in the information. Their thoughts were interrupted by a certain being.

“Another Kirin? In Equestria? Things just got a little more interesting…” everyone looked up to see Discord flying with a small smirk on his face, “Still can’t believe Lulu here is a mom. Must be hard to fathom at this moment, huh.”

“Quite. Where have you been Discord?” Celestia asked as she wiped the tears from her eyes, regaining her royal composure. Discord descended, landing in front of Luna.

“Studying, believe it or not. The Phantasm Kirin is one of the evilest forces ever born to Equestria. We know it’s stronger than you and Luna. He… wow. Kinda weird to refer to the ‘it’ as a ‘he.’ Anywho, He’s stronger than ponies and puts dragons to shame.”

“Thanks, Captain Obvious,” Rainbow Dash remarked, earning a small chuckle from Discord.

“Though a Kirin is powerful, no one said anything about one versus a draconequus,” said Discord. Celestia shook her head.

“No. You can’t face it. We can’t risk losing another,” said Celestia. Discord simply brushed it off with a grin.

“Look, Celly, you don’t have much options left. I’m your best bet at getting that child Kirin here while staying alive. I’ve beaten you before, so I have a decent sporting chance,” said Discord. Celestia pondered his offer. He had a point. Without the Elements of Harmony to stop him, Discord was nearly unbeatable. Maybe Chaos could combat Phantasms. She looked back at the Elements and Spike. Twilight nodded in agreement to Discord’s idea.

“Princess, Discord can hold his own. The Phantasm Kirin may be powerful, but I doubt even he can predict someone like Discord,” said Spike. Celestia nodded. Discord was the best option.

“I assume it’s settled then,” Discord said as he turned around, outstretching his wings. He turned back with a sly grin on his face, “Be back in a few,” and with that, he disappeared.

“After all these years, ah STILL can’t understand Discord,” Applejack said.

“No duh. He’s chaos after all.” Rainbow said as she looked at Luna’s statue, a small bit of rage building within. That monster was going to pay.

Finally regaining her full composure, she gestured for the group to check on the dragons. All of them followed, still unsure on how to soften up the hunters. However, they all agreed that maybe softening up Leviathan and his group wasn’t the best idea if they were to have any chance of beating the Kirin.

Twilight stayed at the back of the group, pondering the events that had just recently passed. Looking out the windows the group passed, she sighed to herself. The sun hadn’t even passed noon yet, but she was used to thinking early in the morning. In just a few short hours, the Phantasm Kirin had revealed himself, damaged Leviathan, and encased Luna in stone. It made all the strategic moves, like a chess game. Each piece was crucial, and each had to be moved to the right square. So far, the Kirin was able to predict the moves they made. Maybe a trick piece; maybe chaos is what they needed.

Perhaps now the Kirin would slip up, and they would gain an upper hoof.

“Beyond the Everfree Forest lies my fabled prize. The moon told me that, much to my surprise. For the moon had stopped, frozen in time. Shocked and hurt was that friend of mine. So along came a chaos, a force unmatched. A force so powerful, only the strongest could catch. But the chaos was chaos, not some fairy tale hero. The chaos was I, and… I am out of rhymes,” said a poetic Discord as he soared the Equestrian sky. Of course, every cloud he touched became cotton candy. The little things in life made him happy.

Discord continued his flight, passing the Everfree Forest. Nopony had ever gone that far before, or nopony had gone that far and lived. There was Saddle Arabia and other ethnic places, but they were in the other direction. At the end of the forest was a cliff. It was quite a drop.

After that drop was land, but it contrasted to Equestria. There were no lush fields or running rivers. There was no civilization. The land was barren, no sign of any life apparent in the lifeless earth. The skeletons of ponies scattered the area, providing little shelter for the scrawny insects. Flags stood high, but their code-of-arms were tattered alongside the sand that resided on the once glorious fabric. The area was simply known as “Death’s Playground.”

Discord paused right before the cliff, landing safely. Death’s Playground was uncharted and nopony dared to set foot past the cliff. Discord simply smiled. It seemed like the perfect place for a Kirin to hide. Breaking to drink some chocolate milk, Discord stared at the sky. The sun was almost at noon.

“To think that today will really be the longest day. Well, Celly can raise the moon, so hopefully this can blow over soon,” said Discord as he stretched his wings. He ascended, flying into Death’s Playground in search of a Kirin.

“Leviathan, stay down. You and I both know that you cannot fight like this.”

“I’m said I’m fine. Now get me out of this robe. My scales are beginning to itch.” Leviathan attempted to get out of the cot, but no matter how strong his will was, he couldn’t move. Titan tried to keep him down, but his stubbornness made it a challenge. Ripper had perched himself on the windowsill, eating a reserve gem. The bounty hunters never accounted for Leviathan’s injury. They had hoped to get in, kill, get out, and feast on gems back at the base. Unfortunately, that plan no longer existed.

“Titan, don’t waste your time. The boss’ll get out eventually. Here. Catch.” Ripper turned and hurled a gem at Titan, who caught it in his mouth. Chewing, he went over to Ripper, gazing out the window.

“What do you think the ponies are doing?” Titan asked. Ripper chuckled some.

“The little buggers are probably thinking of a plan. The Kirin has been way ahead of us so far.”

“And to think it isn’t even lunch time yet. When we get back to base, I’ll finally be able to finish that book,” said Titan. Surprisingly, the hulk of a dragon had brain to match his brawn. Ripper often caught him reading some philosophical passage or calculating how to get the most reward from any job. In his spare time, Titan would even write poems. Ripper would listen in on recitations.

“Heh. Books. Maybe you and that purple pony should have a reading date or something,” said Ripper as he finished off his gem.

“Maybe you need to read something that will help your short-term memory loss,” replied Titan. Ripper scratched the back of his head as he smirked. He never was really good with names. Actually, Ripper wasn’t great at remembering things in general. The only things he could effectively remember were Leviathan and Titan. This was due to blunt trauma to the head a long time ago.

“Leviathan, are you out ye-” Ripper began, but was greeted by a smack to the face. This brought him down. Slightly dazed, he looked up to see Leviathan standing with a wicked smile spread across his face. However, he had even more scars on his body.

“I’m up. Still in a little pain, but nothing a good killing won’t fix,” said Leviathan. Normally, it would take a dragon a few days to recover injuries that severe, but Leviathan was a frost drake. Their ice, while deadly, is also an effective treatment for wounds. They numb the pain, periodically re-freezing the area. Ripper smiled as he got up.

“Glad to have you back boss.”

“Glad to be back. Now both of you. Get off your sorry hides and follow me. We’ve got a princess to talk to.” And with that, the bounty hunters left the infirmary, rejuvenated and ready to fight.

Spike stood out on the balcony of Celestia’s chamber, gazing over the houses of Equestria. Sighing, he was reminded of the unrelenting inferno that haunted him in his sleep. The cries of ponies still resonated within his head. Cursing beneath his breath, he continued to look over the land.

“Spike? Are you okay?” Twilight had been talking with the others, but went over to check on her assistant. Spike looked back and sighed once more.

“I’m just so exhausted. No peaceful rest, brutal training, and running around with a dragon is hard stuff. I keep hearing the nightmare over and over again. I just want this to stop…”

“I understand Spike, but have a little hope. When Discord returns with Luna’s child, we can finally put an end to this nightmare. Hopefully, this only lasts for today,” said Twilight as she joined Spike in looking over Equestria. Spike smiled and put his arm around her, who in turn put a wing around him.

“Maybe after this is over, you can come back to the Library for a bit. It’s odd not having the town bookworm freaking out about reports anymore,” joked Spike. Twilight sighed as she smiled.

“Whatever. Just for that, I’ll make you take over a hundred letters for no good reason.”

“You sneaky devil.”

“I try,” said Twilight as she and Spike laughed. Both of them looked up. The moon was high up in the night sky, stars twinkling, bringing a peaceful feeling over the two friends…

Wait… Twilight kept staring at the moon. Why was it up now? Were they all so lost in thought that Celestia lost track of time? The last time she checked it was a little past noon. Spike noticed it as well. Both of them glanced at each other before Twilight rushed back inside.

“Celestia? Why’s the moon up?” asked Twilight. Celestia shook her head.

“I don’t know. I never raised it. I would theorize Discord, but he’s still on the search for Luna’s child. He can be quite serious about work,” said Celestia. Twilight nodded and turned to her friends, who were all talking to each other to explain the weird appearance of the moon.

“Spike?” Twilight turned back to her assistant. Spike hadn’t come in yet. Spike was trembling, sweat running down his back. Twilight walked toward him, concerned. Spike turned back, his eyes while as he struggled to say something.

“L-l-Look… in… the-the… sky…” Spike’s voice was shaky, but audible enough to draw the attention of the rest of the group, prompting them to go outside. Spike’s claw raised up to point at the night sky.

“Oh… my…” Fluttershy mustered her strength to say two words. The night sky was darker with a giant silhouette of a certain figure. The Phantasm Kirin smiled, his white fangs gleaming.

“Good evening, Equestria. I am the Phantasm Kirin. Lately, there have been a few… issues with lunar management. I have taken the liberty to rectify that. So I trapped your lunar princess in stone. How sad for Luna. Despite that, the moon must be raised, and seeing as Celestia would not do it, well, you see the sky. Don’t worry. The sun is lowered, and may it never rise *again.** The moon shall stay in the sky forever. Should any of you disagree with this…”* The group looked to see a flurry of azure lightning bolts strike places of Equestria. Their nightmare was coming true. Flames erupted from houses as ponies fell like flies. Cloudsdale, much to Rainbow Dash’s horror, became the beacon of destruction. The lightning seemed to start there.

Suddenly, the Kirin turned his attention to the group at Canterlot, a wicked expression of glee on his face. Spike growled as he flashed his claws. The Elements crouched low, their necklaces glowing in anticipation. Celestia also began to glow as a sun-shaped rune emerged below her.

“Tick tock. Tick tock. Tick tock, Elements of Harmony. Your time is almost up. Gather your allies and attempt to end my art as soon as you can. The longer you wait, more ponies die. Such cruelty.”

“You’re gonna pay, buster,” growled Rainbow, earning a faint chuckle escaping the Kirin’s mouth. He then focused his attention on Celestia alone.

“Who should we thank for this? Who shall we thank for not stopping a force as great as I? Who thought it was foalproof to trap a Kirin in stone? All hail the solar ruler, Princess Celestia,” said the Kirin with a smile. Celestia grimaced, realizing what he had done. He was inciting unrest in the populace, making their job of defeating the Kirin even harder.

“By the word of my sister, I shall see to your destruction,” said Celestia.

“Such a threat! I’d love to take you up on that offer, but there are sleeping ponies in need of some phantasms.” Before anyone could object, the visage of the Kirin vanished. The group looked at each other, then back at the moon. Smoke rose into the night sky as the cries pierced the heavens.

Their nightmare had come true.

Status as of Jan. 27, 2014

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