Equestria Girls: A Black Rose by any Name

Chapters

Chapter 1: Black Rose
Chapter 2: Making the Call
Chapter 3: Canterlot
Chapter 4: The Next Move
Chapter 5: What to Do
Chapter 6: Crystal Clear
Chapter 7: Scooping out Ponyville
Chapter 8: The Ticket Home
Chapter 9: Set in motion
Chapter 10: Cross World Differences
Chapter 11: A interesting Visit to Crystal Town
Prologue

Chapter 1: Black Rose

***A Black Rose by any Name...

Chapter 1: Black Rose***

Through the clouds to a mountain across the white covered peaks the stream of water through the forest to a lash town full of people getting up for the new morning with the sun rising from the large lash green plains, the sun shined upon the large spire towering over the centre of the town made out of crystal from outside to inside shimmering from the sun light.

Inside a crystal heart spinning on two crystal spikes held floating between them spin with the sun shining and reflecting off multiple surfaces bursting beams of light into the sky creating a effect of a aurora. A person stepping out of the hotel looked up to the sky with a smile taking a few pictures before heading off to get the coach to the Crystal Empire Ruins that was waiting outside the hotel with the location on the front of the coach, standing at the door a man with sight lime colour skin with mint three tone colour hair sparkling a little to the sun light with a jacket on showing a tower on it letting the holiday makers on board taking their tickets with a smile on his face.

A gentleman wearing a red suit with slight grey skin with jet black wavy hair wearing a silver brace around his head with orb in the middle with a silver spike on either end with sharp red eyes raised his hand with a smile walking by “Morning Ardent”

“Morning Mayor Sombra” Ardent replied with a wave and smile. “It look like we got another great morning”

Sombra look to the sky “Indeed we do and what a lovely morning it is” he turn to Ardent and continues to walk on down the street whistling to himself. Ardent smiled then got on the coach and it departs for the ruins close to the mountain ridge

Sombra comes around the corner of the sweet to the plaza leading to the Crystal Town Historical Museum after hearing of the theft of one of their most priceless crystals that was on display. He walked towards it seeing the Police already there talking to some of the guards and a few entering the building.

Sombra came up to a officer with the four stripes on the shoulder with a crystal shield on his chest pocket of the uniform “Captain Crystal Shield report” the captain had purple short hair with blue eyes and a slight blue skin.

Crystal Shield turn to the mayor with a sigh passing on the papers to one of the other police officers “It was her again Mayor Sombra... she stole a crystal that was from the ruins”

They walking up the stairs heading inside “First it was a Fire Ruby that was made a few months ago then a crystal from the mines a few years ago and now a very old crystal that cracked and little value part from historical value of a empire that was ruled once a long time ago” they stood before the tablet. “The king that became greedy cast down and the empire that fell to all scenes of natural disasters and lost for 1000 years... I almost came a repeat”

“Sir?” Crystal Shield stood by him looking a bit lost by his words.

“I founded this town and found the ruins... my greed of power almost lost my soul to it my friend, I had someone to change my heart...” he turns and leave but stops to turn to the captain “Crystal Shield”

“Sir”

“Black Rose has a reason for stealing these crystals, once that reason is found I am sure you will find her” Sombra walks off down the corridor leaving the captain looking to the tablet with a questionable look on his face.

Crystal Shield turn his eyes again to the case “Reason for stealing the crystals... wealth is only one form of power... she not after that but something more... what possibly could there be that a form of power to those that wish to rule?” he was left pounding over it with arms behind his back continue to stare at the tablet for answers he seeks to solve the crime of Black Rose in Crystal Town.

Later...

The sun started to set as the sound of bell is heard as the students of Crystal High School leave for home or to go to the cafés. One of them being Electuroo whom was heading home on his bike wearing blue jeans, brown and black sleeveless jacket, red and white trainers with a white t-shirt with three lightning bolts on it spend to home down the road side with the cream, black and orange hair waving in the wind with his yellowish face feeling it too.

Electuroo hit the brakes slowing it to a stop and glancing up at the Crystal Spire as the aurora shimmered in the sky due to the sunset. “What a birthday this been... only one friend to celebrate it with...” he sighed and rides on to home.

He pulled up to his house getting off his bike and walked inside. “Hello Electuroo how was school?”

“Same old usually stuff Mum” Electuroo replied walking right up the steps to his room.

His mum sighed looking up the stairs wearing red t-shirt, blue jeans with skin almost white with silver hair wearing two star like earrings “Is any of your friends coming to the birthday party tonight?”

“Only Braeburn” he called back from his room putting his bag down. “I don't have anyone else to call friends... they just love to pick on me all the time...”

Stardust didn't reply to it and walks into the kitchen “Kids can be so crawl at times... I know how that felt when I was his age...” Stardust sighed heavily looking at the cake she bought then at the gift on the table side, taking it she came up to his room.

“Electuroo?”

“Yeah mum?” she stepped into his room seeing Electuroo lying on his bed bouncing a tennis ball off the wall and catching it

Stardust sat down by the bed “Sorry about only one showing up... I wish there more I could do to help you”

Electuroo sat up “It fine mum, just wish things could be different” he sighed heavily looking out the window. “This town cool and all but it just been a few years and still got one friend...”

“I know...” Stardust put the gift in his hand “Open it”

Electuroo opened it up and showed a crystal in it “Mum this is...”

“Yours, it passed on to you as it been done so for 160 generations.” Stardust smiled putting a hand on his shoulder “Sombra be here soon and we have a party with you, me, Angel and Sombra ok?”

“Ok mum” Electuroo hugged her “Thanks”

“Your welcomed young man” Stardust gets up and leaves his room.

Electuroo look to the crystal, it was almost star like shaped with pointy ends with it shimmering with silver light in the sun “The Stardust Crystal... what a sight...” he put it away in the box and place it on the table leaving to go join his mother and the only friend to show up Bareburn a good friend living on the apple farm on the outskirts of the city.

“Hey there partner how it going?” Bareburn grinned pushing up his hat back a little “Got ya a gift from me and the folks back at sweet... AAAAAppleloosa! Orchard”

Electuroo chuckled taking the gift from him “Hehe you and your Appleloosa farm” he chuckled opening the gift “Wow sweet” he checked out the leather jacket it “Was this hand stitched?”

“Sure was partner, since y'all hang out at the farm a lot ah'm thought ya like something official to wear when ya come on round” Bareburn still having a big smirk.

“Ok birthday boy time to blow out the candles right after we sing you happy birthday” Stardust showing the cake and they all started to sing...

As the party goes on with them singing happy birthday to Electuroo a figure stands by the window and forces it open stepping into the room “Right on time” she smirked seeing the box and picking it up “I knew scouting out this place would bring me the main prize” she pulled the lid open seeing the crystal and raised it. “Stardust Crystal what a beauty and holds so many secrets too”

She turn to the sound of the singing ending and the sound of steps before she could react the door opens with Electuroo staying right at her. “Who the heck are you and what the heck you doing my room?” he stared at the black dressed lady with pure black hair with silver lines through it with sharp red eyes with a creamy colour skin smirked at him with a rose in her other hand.

“Black Rose is my name kid and I be taking this gem off your hands” she toss the rose on to the table and she jumped out the window, he quickly ran down out the door down the stairs and out the house to see her running towards the hotel.

Electuroo got on his bike “Your not going to steal my mothers crystal!” he rides after her.

Stardust, Bareburn and Sombra with Electuroo's sister Angel came out of the house seeing him ride off after the thief “Electuroo!” Stardust called out but he ignored her and rides fast to catch Black Rose.

The bus was about to pull away when Black Rose open the doors with a crystal held up it glowed with black aura, Ardent gasped seeing this and she stepping on “Don't try anything” she said with sweat pouring from her face the energy used from the crystal zapped her energy “Take me to the ruins or I will have to do something to you with this” she held the black crystal up to him.

Ardent gulped “Yes ma'am...” he closed the doors and pulled the bus away heading to the ruins staring at the crystal he was really scared. “What are you going to do with me?”

“Nothing, you are not worth my time, but if you don't get me to the ruins I will do something got it?” Black Rose poked him with her other hand

Electuroo rode his bike fast he could chasing the bus down the road to the ruins “No way that thief getting away with my mums crystal! She gave me it as a birthday gift and I will get it back” he spoke to himself with pour determination to get the Stardust Crystal back.

“The gates are closed we not...” Ardent spoke remembering that the gates to the ruins was closed and guards be on duty to keep them safe from trespassers.

Black Rose glared at him “Smash through the gates” she press the crystal against his chest. “Or do I have to get nasty”

Ardent saw it shimmering with black aura like before and he had no choice, punching the gear up he spend for the gates “Better hold on... this isn't going to be pretty”

The guards saw the bus speeding right for the gates they waving and shouting at it then they dived out the way as it speeds through the gate carrying on down the road into the ruins, they about to call for back up when they saw Electuroo on his bike shot by “What the blazes is going on?” one guard spoke and the other shrugs as they watch the high school student chase after the bus into the ruins.

They turn to the sound of another sound of a engine and saw it was a police car that came to a stop “Captain Crystal Shield a bus just smashed through the gate and it seem someone on a bike was chasing it...” the other guard said to him.

Crystal Shield look to the passengers being Stardust, Sombra, Barburn and Angel “Hold on tight we got some catching up to do” they nod and the car speeds off down into the ruins with the guards looking to each other then at the ruins seeing the flashing lights get dimmer as the police car got further into the ruins..

The bus comes to a stop just outside the ruins and the door opens “Thanks for the ride” she toss the crystal to Ardent and he caught it. “I won't be needing that anymore” she jumps out of the bus and run into the ruins.

Ardent toss the crystal quickly it shattering on impact with a flash of black aura coming out of it and disappearing into thin air “That was creepy... I knew I was working too hard...”

Electuroo stopped outside the door getting off his bike “Where is she?”

“That creepy lady... in the ruins she ran into that...” he points to part of the ruins with 'no entry' sign on it.

Electuroo sighed “why am I not surprised...” he runs into the ruins pushing the gates open.

“Don't go in there it not safe!” Ardent called out but his words go unnoticed and he saw the police car stop with everyone getting out “Mayor Sombra”

“Where are they?” he asked instantly coming to Ardent

Ardent points to the gates as they close “They went in there...”

Stardust walks to it “Then I am going in too” she then get held by Crystal Shield and Sombra “Get off me! My son gone in there!”

“I know ma'am but that area isn't safe” Crystal Shield said back to her. “There a lot of unknowns in there”

Stardust turn to him freeing herself from them “What unknowns?”

Sombra looked at the gate and back at her “It been sealed off because of strange things going on inside those parts of the ruins that I don't even understand, for the safety of all we sealed it off...”

“It not going to stop me for getting to that thief and my son” Stardust turn to it and Sombra stood in the way “Sombra out of the way...”

“I can't do that Stardust, we have to wait outside till he comes back, there is no way I am allowing anyone else to enter that part of the ruins...” Sombra said in a serious tone of voice “I am sorry Stardust but I am not going to change my mind on this”

Ardent step up to her “the mayor right... I been in there once and it was weird... I felt like if something was watching me and it gave me the creeps and some people that worked there came back never step foot in the ruins again”

Stardust kicks the police car hard with anger and turn to them “Then you better hope nothing happens to my son or your in for it!” she pokes Sombra in the chest “You got it!”

Sombra rubbing his chest “Yes I understand Stardust and I will take responsibility for what ever happens......”

They turn to the doors now awaiting for Electuroo's return either with or without the Stardust Crystal, all Stardust wanted was her son to return safely then about a crystal that been in the family for a very long time with Sombra standing by her knowing she felt helpless as much he was...

Bareburn stared at the gate leading to the ruins. “Time to sneak on in” he took the chance and sneak by them.

Sealed Off Ruins...

Remains of a corridor lined with white walls with carvings showing events of the empire that was once was as Black Rose ran by them stopping with a torch in a case she takes it and shines it into a stair well then she heard foot steps and saw him. “You really want it back don't you?”

Electuroo took hold of a torch of his own and turn it on shining it at her “It doesn't belong to you so give it back and I will let you go on your way”

Black Rose smirked “I really can't do that” she held it up in her view “I really need it for something really important” she put it back in her pouch. “Be seeing ya” she run down the stairs

Electuroo run up to the stairs looking down them “Gah damn it!” he chases her down the steps soon finding himself in a large chamber looking to his right then left he felt something really creepy about this place shining the torch at the ruins, he saw crystals lying around all over the place but one thing that stuck out was a pair of Pegasus and Unicorns, one on each side of one of the corridors with crystals around each of their necks or heads like a necklace of helmets. “Wow...”

Electuroo saw another show two crystal made horses also further in “Talk about weird... it almost as if they worshipped horses, mules or ponies... I wonder if they worshipped gods based on a belief they was equines” he touch one of statues and heard a stone fall shining the light down it he saw her fitting a crystal into the Unicorn chest plate. “YOU!”

She leaps off the statue by the corridor with a grin “Well let see if you can catch me” she runs down the corridor and he gives chase running hard as he could tossing the torch to the side he chased her seeing the flicking light of the torch she was holding as she ran.

Electuroo was closing in on her ignoring the strange effects happening around him as if the dark corridors started to light up and twist and turn “Almost got her” he whispers reaching out to her arm feeling that he almost out of energy as he closed in on her and came to a stop in a instant seeing her disappear in a blinding light. He fell over staring in shock what happened...

“Wh-what the heck was that?” he slowly got up walking over to it putting a hand out, the light appears and he pulled back again. “Ok seriously weird...” he step back and felt a hand on his arm making him almost yelp in shock he turn around to Braeburn “You almost scared me to death Braeburn”

“Sorry ah just came even ya ma told me not to, where did that thief go?” Braeburn walked up to it but Electuroo held him back as it shimmered at a touch a hand “Whoa what in hay is this?” he put his hand through the invisible field seeing something odd “Hey look at that mah hand a hoof” he chuckled

“Say what?” Electuroo saw it “Whoa...” he did the same and then pulled his hand back out “Maybe we shouldn't do anything crazy...”

Braeburn pulled his hand out “Well she did steal y'all crystal right?”

“Yeah...”

“And that Black Rose lady must have a reason to going through whatever this is” he point to the passageway “So what ya think go or go back to y'all mum empty handed?”

Electuroo rubbing the back of his head a little “I don't know Braeburn we could get into more trouble by leaping through it and blindly... the corridor seem to carry on but this wall of energy whatever it is could have something completely different on the otherside...”

Braeburn put his hand on his arm “We can go through, have a quick look and come back” he suggested

“A quick look around?”

“Eeyup, no harm in scoping it out right?” Braeburn suggested “So up for it?”

Electuroo look back to where they came and pick up the torch looking to it “Not just yet... throwing us through it might be more trouble then it worth... best to go back first”

“Alright partner, but what about the crystal?”

“We will be going but after we learned more about what this is...”

“Sure thing partner” they turn and walk back down the corridor with both of them looking back the corridor seeing the magical shimmer of the rift. “Partner didn't ya aunt talk of something like this once when she was last round?”

Electuroo eyes widen “You know what... your right! Come on! I know who exactly to call to help us out!” he runs back with Braeburn to outside the ruins.

Chapter 2: Making the Call

***A Black Rose by any Name...

Chapter 2: Making the Call...***

Explosions rip through the air as a lady wearing a dark oivine vest and trousers with pockets on the on both with a tan pith helmet with a dark olivine band with a doable bag on her back wearing thick leathered hiking boots for all types of terrain dodged fire and falling rocks taking a leap over a gorge.

She turns to the falling path behind seeing it fall collapse into rubble brush some of her grey rainbow scaled hair back from her face. “Now for...” the phone starts ringing.

“Cut Cut! CUT!!!” the director yelled out slamming his pad to the ground “Daring how many times have I told you not to bring that blasted phone on set! You know how much it cost to run these shoots!”

“Blueblood shut the heck up, this phone on me for emergences only so get off my back” Daring Do snapped at him.

“My word I won't be spoken like that at all! Not at all!” he said with a hint of disgust

Daring Do turn to him “Then find another ex-explorer slash action actor” she replied and walks off to answer her phone.

“Gah! I hate working with that blasted women!” he sat back down rubbing his head “Someone get me a aspirin!”

Daring Do answered her mobile phone “Hello this is Daring Do”

“Hey auntie it me Electuroo”

“Well now I am glad you called, that guy was driving me crazy...” Daring Do sat down. “So what can I do for my favourite nephew?”

“Well that what I called for auntie... it kind of about the Stardust Crystal... it been stolen”

Daring Do eyes was pin pricks “Say what!?” she got back up “tell me what happened kid...”

“Well it was my birthday and mum gave it to me... but then this lady called Black Rose took it and chased her to the ruins, she escaped through some rift”

Daring Do heard those words “Rift? As in magical?” no reply “I know of Black Rose... I had so many run in with that women...” Daring Do look to the director who was still moaning “No one steals from my family and gets away with it! I will be by the evening, get ready for adventure nepthew because this is one place you will experience like no other because I been there”

“Braeburn coming too, I told him he can”

“I had a feeling you be dragging your only friend along for the ride. Alright, I be there soon as possible and thanks again kid, you saved my rump on this one” Daring Do chuckled

“Rump? In horse rump?”

“Yes I will explain when I get there, bye” she hangs up the phone and put it in her pocket “Sorry Hoity Toity but family comes first” Daring Do drop the pack heading out the door pulling out her keys.

“Ma'am where are you going?” a man came up to her.

Daring Do open the door to her green jeep up “A family emergency, tell Blue I be back soon as possible” she closes the door starting the engine up and drives off from the studios leaving the man standing there with jaw open with shock at what just happened and the fear on his face looking to the door knowing he going to get it in the neck about Daring Do darting off like that... again.

Crystal Town...

Electuroo was glad his mum Stardust wasn't staying at the ruins but he kept about Daring Do his aunt hidden, he didn't want her to know as he and Braeburn did a little soccer after high school with the the principle whom had blue hair with blue shorts and white t-shirt with a whitish grey skin and blue trainers on with the picture of a shield and set of stars on the t-shirt.

Electuroo and Braeburn wearing some sport gear ready to do some practice with the principle

“Alright you two your ready for training?” he spoke out holding a whistle up

“Yes Shining Armour we are” Electuroo replied.

“Eeyup time for some soccer!” Braeburn grinned

“Do ten laps for a warm up and then we will start with some long range passes ok?” Shining Armour blow his whistle and they started doing the laps.

A lady wearing blue jeans with light blue t-shirt with dark violet, moderated rose and pale gold hair with a slight pinkish skin and on the t-shirt she had a crystal heart on it. “Hello Shining how your favourite two soccer players doing today?”

“Hello Cadance and they just started their training but I noticed they seem to be distracted as if they looking out for someone” he said to his wife and the vice principle of the school.

Cadance watched them seeming to be keeping eye on the road as some cars go by “Indeed it does, I did hear that Electuroo lost a crystal to the thief Black Rose”

“Black Rose... really that no good for nothing lady stole his crystal...” Shining sighed. “Well I will talk to him during the training, care to watch?”

“Sure” she kissed him on the cheek and sits down on the stands.

After the laps they started doing passes and that when Shining Armour choose to ask “So Black Rose stole something of yours?”

“Yeah” Electuroo replied passing the ball with a long range kick to Braeburn with him hitting it on his chest and booting it back over. “Sir do you think it worth going after someone that stole something that been in the family for 6000 years?”

Shining Armour turn to him as he passed it over to Braeburn “Did you say 6000 years? That is one old crystal... how did it came to be in the family for so long?”

“I don't really know” Electuroo caught the ball on his knee bouncing it up and giving it a boot back to Braeburn once more. “All I know I am the 161th to get it... but now it stolen... mum seem to be really uncertain about why someone would go to the trouble to steal it and run into some rift in the ruins”

“Rift?”

“Yeah is some weird thing in the ruins, no one knows anything about it but my aunt seem to know when I called her... she talked of something like that happening eight years ago, she said that she'd lived a life 80 years in a past for 20 years then return to here as if only seconds passed, that why she retired her hat from exploring and turned actor for the Daring Do Adventures movies” Electuroo explained to him holding the ball under his arm.

Shining Armour look to Braeburn coming over to them and he look to his wife whom smiled slightly “You know what kid, if this crystal is really important and Black Rose ran into this rift to take it with her to where ever it is, go after her and get it back, it part of who you are, your family” he put a hand on his shoulder. “Tell me one thing you know of the crystal first?”

“I know is fell from the skies and suppose to be magical but no one really seen anything magical from it” Electuroo shrugged “So you think it worth me and Braeburn to go after her?”

“Yes, but for now let finish off our training?”

“Yes sir” he smirked with a salute.

“Good on you now let see your long range shots at the goal, both of you, first to score five wins” they nod and went on to practice.

Cadance stood by Shining Armour “Did I hear you say to them to go after her?”

“Yes”

“Well I hope you know what your doing because if Stardust ever find out your going to have to deal with a very upset mother” Cadance replied with a smile

“Oh... I didn't think of that” Shining gulped

Stardust...

Stardust stood in the Crystal Spire looking out to the ruins in the distance with Sombra standing by her looking out with her as the crystal heart spins behind them with the humming sound of the machine running the electro magnets to hold it in place and cause it to spin. “Your thinking about what they discovered aren't you?”

“Yes” Stardust turn to him “me and my sister found something about this magical rift... it leads to a alternate world where myth and legends are well... true”

“So I heard from my own research team” Sombra said to her “I believe that Electuroo should go after her to get it back”

Stardust sighed turning back to the window putting her hands on it “I knew that was coming up... he still in high school... I can't just...”

“School over for another year after today, I believe he should go and I do believe your sister coming to town”

“Daring Do, yeah she is, my son called her right away, she been there before” Sombra stared at her in shock. “Family secret so keep your mouth shut ok?”

Sombra nods “Lips and sealed” he did a zip motion with fingers. “So what do you know of this world from what your sister told you?”

Stardust sighed “I can't really say, wish I could but she doesn't talk about it but other it truly magical”

“Well then let them go” Sombra said putting a hand on hers. “You did turn my heart of greed to a something that really cares, you made it possible Stardust so let them have a chance to do something that really matters”

“Alright Sombra you win...” Stardust put her other hand on his and they stood together watching the sun set with the light creating the aura effect in the skies above the Crystal Spire...

Later that Night, Crystal Empire Ruins...

A green jeep speeds down the dirt road into the ruins coming to a sliding stop before a group of people standing by the gates. Daring Do steps out of the jeep lifting up her back pack putting it on. “Hey sis long time no see” Daring Do gives Stardust a big hug and she returns it.

“Same to you Daring Do” she pulled away and turn to Electuroo and Braeburn whom was set to go. “We going to be your send off and wish you and the boys the best of luck getting the crystal back and bring that women Black Rose to justice”

“Auntie Do it great to see ya” Electuroo gave her a big hug and she returned in kind.

“It great to see you too Electuroo” Daring Do replied with a smile giving him a light punch on the arm afterwards. “And this must be Braeburn, pleasure to meet you kid” she put her hand out to him

He took it with a shake “Nice to meet a famous actor like y'all self ma'am, ah'm a fan of the movies ya made”

“That good but where we going it will be adventure like no other, this world be strange, questionable and I will have to teach you two a few things how your bodies will work there too” Daring Do explained to both of them

Electuroo rubbed his head a little “What do yo mean by that Daring?”

“Oh you will find out once we cross the void, speaking of which” Daring Do turn to Sombra “Care to show us in?”

Sombra smiled “Sure thing Daring Do, please follow me” they all head into the ruins walking down some steps “This part of the ruins been sealed off for almost six years now, it became too risky for anyone to work here since there was strange things that no one could explain and the walls are very unstable due to their age” he explained as they entered the main chamber. “This is the corridor leading to the other world”

Daring Do looked at each of the statues around the entrance “Makes perfect sense to have a magical rift here, but I am surprised no one accidentally crossed the void” then she turn to Sombra “Or they have and refuse to work here again”

“Only strange sounds but we knew were all the crystals that was stolen came to” he said to her “As you can see they all here accounted for” he points to each of the statues.

Daring Do looked at them carefully studying each of them. “Now it does make sense... the strange sounds was a echo from the other world, a rip that opened and closed, not stable for anyone to cross I might add but with these crystals the gateway is complete” Daring Do removed on and they saw a small flash “See” and she put it back in and another semi glow. “Best to keep these in Sombra”

Sombra rubbing his head “Alright, I will make sure no one remove the crystals to keep this gate way opened... what exactly is the name of this corridor?” he turn to Crystal Shield

The police officer pulled up his tablet and looked at the data “The Crystal Arch sir”

“A fitting name for a gate way to another world” Electuroo crossed his arms.

Sombra turn to Daring Do “Well this seem to be goodbye for now, take care ok?”

“Will do” Daring smirked.

Shining Armour gave Electuroo a camera “Take some photos for me ok? I would love to see what on the other side of this void”

“Sure I think I can do that” Electuroo put the camera away. “And I be back for the new term sir”

“You better be kid” Shining Armour smirked.

Braeburn turn to his parents “Guess this is bye for now huh ma, pa?”

“Indeed sugar, please take care of y'all self and Electuroo, he is ya best friend and counting on ya”

“Don't worry ma, as the saying goes 'us Apples stick together' and ah for one see him as one of us” Braeburn replied giving them both a big huge.

Daring Do stood before the corridor “Stardust I promise that I will keep your kid safe, you have my word”

“I know you will Daring Do, take care of yourself too ok?” Stardust said and turn to them “You two better go before I change my mind”

“Mum I be seeing you ok?”

“You sure will my sweet” Stardust gave him a farewell hug.

They soon prepared and start walking down the corridor waving to the others standing at the chamber as the adventure is about to begin as they came to the part the room started to twist and turn with walls misshaped and ceilings going all wavy above them. They soon stood before the rift in front staring at it they all looked to each other with a nod they took each other hands and with one big step they vanish in a flash of light crossing the rift and into a whole new adventure...

Suddenly everything started to shake the people gathered so the rift pulsing out of control and then a huge explosion of energy sends them flying they all on the ground coughing as the dust clears to their horror the tunnel that the trio just went down and through the rift was gone... all was left was rubble and the echo of something laughing evilly that got some of the guards spooked and ran out of the ruins as fast they could... the others just got up coughing and staring at the five statues one that stood out most of all gave Sombra the creeps for sure the statue with the red ruby unicorn horn...

Chapter 3: Canterlot

A Black Rose by any Name...

Chapter 3: Canterlot...

Daring Do was regaining her senses after crossing the rift, it felt strange but one thing for sure it didn't act like the rift she once crossed, once her vision cleared she could see hooves before her and looked at herself with a smirk “The daring pegasus adventure is back in business” she chuckled lightly and realised something instantly when looking around. “Wait something off...” she saw the crystals in the walls and some walls made of it.

She heard moaning and turn to see two stallions lying there as they started to wake, one was pale yellow with a jacket and hat on with quite the long mane and tail, with a red apple on his flank “That must be Braeburn which means” she turn to the yellow pegasus starting to wake as well, he had cream and black mane and tail both quite long like Braeburns but with a hit of orange on the front of the mane and wearing a jacket and the cutie mark was of three lightning bolts “Flyer for sure” she whispered with a smirk.

Daring Do saw them now awake “Ok guys take it easy you will find your bodies to be strange and unusually” she reinsures them so they don't panic on their sudden changes, but she was concerned about where they are and had a bad feeling exactly that location is. “Before anything turn your attention to my voice”

Electuroo look to her with a shock “Auntie y-yo-you...”

“A Pegasus pony yes, not first time either, but good to feel young again though” she smirked “Now your one too” she points a hoof to his back

Electuroo turn his head seeing a snout in his field of vision “Whoa! This is crazy I got wings” he open them a little. “Oh that is weird... I never felt muscles like that before... auntie why am I a talking pony with wings?” he turn after watching as he flex the muscles in the wings and now asked Daring Do about the reason he looked the way he did as he tried to stand up falling over on his back.

“It part of this world, humans don't exist so the magic turn you into the respective dominating race specially in this area of the world.” Daring Do explained and turn to Braeburn trotting on the spot enjoying the feel “I see somepony enjoying themselves”

“What not to enjoy, these hooves are amazing, ya seeing this” he carried on trotting on the spot and then did a proud trot around them “Sweet and... arg!” he trips over tumbling around hitting a crystal wall with a thud both closed their eyes from the impact. “Ow...”

Electuroo stood up on the four hooves shaking a little as he tried to get use to them. “Rather stand on two Daring... this is too weird...”

“Yeah it is but fun!” Braeburn chuckled rolling over. “Ah bet ma and pa at Sweet AAAPPPAALLOOOSSAAA!!! Orchard” Electuroo sure heard a neigh in it but chuckled seeing how he jumped up on his hind legs waving his forelegs both landing back on all fours. “*cough* erm love it... sorry ah didn't expect to well y'all know...”

“I think it was pretty awesome” Electuroo chuckled slowing walking around with help from Daring Do. “Auntie where are we? I don't see any corridors we entered”

Daring Do looked around as she gave him a helping hoof to walk “No we not where we should be, I am sure of it...”

“Then where are we Daring Do?” Braeburn adjusted his hat a little. “This look like some old looking crystal mine”

“Indeed it is, we in what called the Canterlot Catacombs, we directly under the capital of Equestria, that the land we in” Daring Do explained to them looking around “Which means getting out is going to be tricky but not impossible” she looking around to try and figure out how to get out. “Once you two learn to walk on your hooves we will work together to find a way out, no one goes alone, got it?”

“Yes ma'am” both replied

“Good” Daring Do carried on to teach them how to walk on all fours for about ten minutes, she was pleased on their progress.

Electuroo flapped the wings a little trying to get use to them “Auntie am I going to be able to fly with these?”

“Yes but not right now, first things first is getting out of here” Daring Do explained then look to the area “But for us to be thrown into this place she must of put a booby-trap in the rift with some form of magic, most likely a misdirection teleportation spell” Daring Do theorized the idea about how they got there...

Braeburn looking at himself as they started to make their way through the catacombs “It would explain why mah head is killing me”

Daring Do knew she had one too from the pain she felt “It a side-effect of the teleportation that was used on us, trust me I been there a few times myself” they continued to walk seeing some of the crystals looked damaged or blown away. “Hmm this was done quite some time ago, about a year or two from the detail of these burn marks, a unicorn offence magic from the look of it”

Electuroo saw a feather that was in no better condition “Auntie look at this”

She took a look and nods “Indeed two years ago, it seem something happened here about that time, which means we on the right track of getting out of this place”

Braeburn chuckled they turn to the western pony “Y'all said track, well ya got tracks” he tap it with a hoof “And might ah saw a mine cart to boot or shall ah say hoof” he smirked learning on it with his foreleg standing on his hind legs with a grin. “Y'all thinking what ah'm thinking?”

Daring Do grinned “You bet ya hat kid I do” She checked the cart out and tapping it a few times. “Look good enough, everypony aboard”

“Everypony? Don't you mean everybody?” Electuroo blinked a few times.

“No everypony kid, we are ponies after all” Daring Do said helping Bareburn into the cart with Electuroo climbing in. “Does that make sense?”

“I think so... can we just find the crystal and go home... I hate not having hands” he stared at the hooves he had when climbing into the cart.

Daring Do chuckled “I know what you mean kid, I felt the same way, but till we find the crystal and where Black Rose used to get here we can't do much about it” he nods “Ok all hold on tight” she pushes it and jumps into the as it rolls off down the track. “Just hope there is no holes in the track for a mine being this old...”

The cart hits a twisting turn going round and round as it gained speed down the downward spiral rail as it carried on to pick up speed down it “YEE HAW!!!!” Bareburn cried out enjoying the ride with Electuroo covering his pony ears.

“Ow ow ow!!! Bareburn these stupid ears are very sensitive!!!” Electuroo yelled at the farm boy turn farm pony.

“Opps sorry” Braeburn grinned sheepishly the big grin Electuroo knew all too well with a roll of his eyes.

Electuroo gasped at what was coming up as the cart went up hill “Erm Auntie what usually happens when you say something about things that not so good?”

“You mean about my remarks about the...” Daring Do saw the track “Aw nuts...” she turn to him “Quickly get his right foreleg and open your wings when I say!!!”

“But...” Electuroo was looking at her then back at the fast ending track.

Daring Do took Braeburn other foreleg “Don't but me kid just do it when I say!”

Braeburn gulped looking to both Electuroo and Daring Do then ahead “Ok Daring...”

“NOW!!!” He opened his wings as Daring Do opened hers too.

The cart flies off the tracks and they glide above with Braeburn looking down at the ground far below “Wooo wee this is amazing! Ya flying! Electuroo ya flying!”

“More like gliding with style, can you stop fiddling around I can't keep on course!” Electuroo said back to him and saw the ground coming fast “Ahhhh!!”

CRASH!!!

All three in a pile against the wall from the crash landing. Daring Do rolled over onto her four hooves dusting herself a little “Nice going kid, you did good for a first”

“Thanks Auntie” Electuroo smirked getting up and dusting himself off too.

Braeburn look to the track that was broken “Woo wee look at that” they turn to see the distance they covered “Nice glide and that was fun too, how about we do it again?”

“Lets say we did and don't...” Electuroo press his head against Braeburn's

“Yeah ah can see what ya mean” he chuckled nervously pulling away a little. “So where are we now?”

Daring Do checking around seeing some support beams and another feather or two that looked years old “I say we on the right track”

After a few hours of walking through the catacombs they finally come to a source of light and Daring Do noticed something as they got to a opening a bunch of flowers completely weltered and the paper looked very crumbly too on the stone ground.

Electuroo look to it tapping it and fell apart into crumbling dust “That was something that a bride would have wouldn't it auntie?”

“Sure would kiddo” Daring Do turn to the opening and saw some stairs. “It seem we found our way out of the catacombs”

Braeburn looked up them “There a source of light, which mean it gave light to the whole catacombs?”

“It sure seems that way... I wouldn't want to be here at night” Daring Do looked around then up the stairs “I will take lead, you two keep behind me ok?” They both nod as she leads them out of the caves and up the stairs with the sound of clopping from their hooves as they slowly made their way up...

Canterlot Palace...

A few guards was doing their rounds walking through the halls of the palace using their horns to light up the corridor as night sets in, looking to the left and right the two guards split down the two corridors to make sure that everything is fine and safe for the royalty that resided in the walls of the palace.

A wall slides across with Daring Do peering through it with a flash light on and holding it with her front hoof shining it down the hall way then turning it off placing it in her saddle bag “Alright Elecutroo, Braeburn it clear” they slowly came out with her looking around.

“Where are we?” Electuroo looked out a window and gasped “Wh-wh-whoa....” he heart raced as he saw how high they are and looking right down into a landscape. He felt sick to his stomach feeling unsafe.

Daring Do looked out seeing the moon raising “quite the view isn't it”

“Boy howdy it sure is, it almost like the view ya see from the Crystal Spire” Braeburn heard the sound of hooves they turn to the direction of it “Erm we better get moving there someone coming”

“Agreed, follow me” they nod to her and they quickly moved around the corner to only run into another pony but not any pony... Daring Do recovered her senses and saw whom she and the two ran into and it was no other then Princess Luna whom stared back at them, the night princess was not too pleased.

Princess Luna got up and glared at them “Who are you and what are you doing in the royal suite of the Canterlot Palace!?” she said glaring at them all “Explain fast or we will have to lock you for trespassing!”

Daring Do never quickly got up “Erm you see... we... well...”

“GUARDS!!!”

Electuroo spoke up “Please we not trying to trespass or anything of the sort! We got lost inside the catacombs below!”

The guard ponies stood before them with no exit. “What where you doing down there in the first place!?”

Braeburn bows a little “Howdy y'all highness and we ended up down there after chasing a thief, she had a good day head start on us and used some crazy spell to change the gate ways path so we ended up in the catacombs”

“Thief you say? All I know you could be thieves...”

“My auntie never steals! She the one and only amazing Daring Do! They greatest aunt in the world! Why would she or us steal!” Electuroo snapped at the princess

“No one speaks to Luna in such a manner I am the princess of the night and...” Luna paused turning to Daring Do “Daring Do?”

“Yes that is my name, ex-adventure at your service” she took off her hat and bowed.

Luna gasped with almost a squall “Oh my gosh you are really are Daring Do... my eyes can not believe what I am seeing...” then a pause “Did that yellow pegasus called out aunt?”

“Yes he did, his my nephew the son of my sister Stardust, you see he asked for my assists on tracking a thief that stole a crystal that been part of the family line for 6,000 years and I couldn't say no to family special when it comes to my sisters kid Electuroo here” Daring Do replied explaining with some confidence in her voice.

Luna was now speechless “Princess do you want us to take them away?”

Luna shook her head “No this is Daring Do, we can not possible think of a action as that. Please continue your rounds and I will take care of our guests” the four guards nod and go off on their way. “Daring Do this is a real pleasure to meet you in pony, I read all your action stories”

Braeburn whispers to Electuroo “Action stories? Ah thought they was movies, really amazing movies at most”

“Yeah me too, maybe they don't have TV here” Electuroo whispered back.

“No TV aw come on how y'all manage to get around without TV...” Braeburn grumbled a little. “That mean no computers...”

“Tell me about it”

Luna saw the two stallions talking to each other in a whisper “Is there something we should know?”

Both turn to her and laugh nervously “Erm nothing ma'am... we just never met y'all before”

“How is your hair doing that wavy thing, it awesome” Electuroo changes the subject looking at Luna's mane “And the tail too, is there some magic involved?”

Luna smiled sheepishly no pony spoken of her mane and tail before “Y-yes of course young one, it sort of stands out cause I rule the night of Equestria”

“That cool, I always like looking at the stars, I imagine sometimes and wonder what beyond our world and what mysterious that waiting to be discovered” Electuroo beamed and looked out the window. “It also peaceful...”

Luna felt warmth from his words and smiled proudly “I will over see this matter this time around, I do not know how you came to be in the palace but knowing you Daring Do you will keep that as a mystery.”

Daring Do put her hat back on her head “You know me all too well Princess Luna, you have me surely at a disadvantage”

“Then we will have to change that, I will let my sister know of your arrival in the morning, for tonight you can reside within these walls and rest...” Luna turn to him as he was still staring out into night sky in a world of his own right now, she could sense his day dreaming even with his eyes open and blinking, she could feel the imagination in full swing.

Daring Do shook her head “All kind and well Princess I can not accept that... that would be imposing on you and your duties, it kind enough for you to over look the matters that happened but staying here over night it just don't sit right...”

Luna just turn to her “It either that or I do have the guards throw you in the dungoen, I did say you, your nephew and his friend are guests did I not?”

Braeburn turn to Daring Do “Come on Daring what the harm? We all pretty beat from walking all over the place in that here catacombs”

Daring Do sighed “It not much of a choice is it?” she glance to the night princess

“No”

“Then I have no choice to accept your invite to stay here in the palace” Daring Do put her hoof out and Luna took it with a gentle shake. “Guess you be showing us to the rooms too?”

“Indeed we will” Luna turns and start to walk and turn to Electuroo “You can gaze at my night from a perfect view at one of the rooms, if you wish”

Electuroo blinked and turn “Huh? What?”

“We said 'you can gaze at my night from a perfect view at one of the rooms, if you wish'” she repeated

“Rooms?” he turn to Daring Do

“Yep we staying here for the night”

“Isn't that really cool?”

“Yeah it does” Electuroo smiled then turn to Luna “Thank you Luna it very kind of you” Luna nods and shows them to their rooms.

After being taken to each of their own rooms, Electuroo was the last walking over to the balcony he stared out into the fresh cool air of the night, he could see the city below and the mountain side that the palace sat against then turn his gaze to the town in the distance with the night sky in clear view. “Amazing...” he pulled out the camera, after almost dropping it a dozen times he manage to set it up and take a photo of the view. “The Principle sure going to love this” he put the camera away and place the bag and jacket together by the wall.

Electuroo look to the bed “Wow first night in this amazing well and I get to sleep in style” Electuroo grinned and laid down on the bed putting the covers over himself tucking the wings in. “Just hope we find a way home though... that Black Rose if auntie Do is right has sent us way off course... she could be any...” he yawns as he eyes grew heavy “where...” he let his eyes close and falls asleep...

Chapter 4: The Next Move

A Black Rose by any Name...

Chapter 4: The Next Move...

Electuroo woke to his first morning being a pony, it was a rather strange feeling as he push the covers off, yesterday he was with his aunt and best friend trying to find a way out of the catacombs and thanks to Daring Do's influence they got top of the range sleeping quarters, he slowly slip out of bed feeling the nagging muscle strain to the wings he opened them and flexed them unlike he ever seen a bird would do and closed them up against his body.

Stepping up to the balcony he could see the moon just finish setting and the sun starting to rise but he noticed to his left a humming sound and looked up in surprise to see the one he met last night Princess Luna and standing by her was another of her kind but slightly larger and taller for sure, her horn glowing then he look back at the sun as it rose shielding his eyes slightly from the glare with a front hoof. “No way... she controlling the sun? But that impossible, the planet moves around the world not...” he paused with a smirk “Of course magic, myth and legends. This world a complete flip flop to mine... wow that awesome, I got to take a photo of this for sure”

Electuroo got his camera out and took a photo of the two princesses then of the sun rising, happy with the photos he put the camera away. “I wonder how I bath being this” he looked over himself and at the bathroom that was part of the room, “five star room with a five star bathroom” he walked inside looking around “Whoa is is amazing...” he finding everything exciting, getting to know a whole different world. “Guess chasing after a thief has it peaks” he grinned.

He spent a little time figuring out how to use his hooves and mouth to work around and get the bath going, Electuroo was glad for his imaginative thinking and open mind to different possibilities. He soon just relaxing in the hot steamy water, it was a strange feel with fur and all but Electuroo didn't really care after being in a catacomb he felt it was really needed...

Electuroo heard a knock on the door “Who is it?” he called out

“Your aunt kiddo” Daring Do called out

“It open!”

Daring Do walks into the bedroom seeing some stream coming from the bathroom “Hehe I guess great minds think alike, how does it feel?”

Electuroo saw her standing by the door way “Amazing, I never really felt anything like this but I feel so relaxed... wings and all” he chuckled opening his wings in the water and closing them. “So how did it go with Luna's sister?”

“Very well, luckily she believed my story on I being the original Daring Do's granddaughter and was named after her since I looked exactly like her and did the same things, blur blur blur, you get the point” Daring Do smirked

Electuroo turn to her “So what our plan then auntie?”

“Not quite sure, one thing we need to know is more about this kingdom Equestria and best place for that is a library” Daring Do explained to her nephew. “After breakfast since we all was kindly invited to join the princesses to breakfast, it be rude not to come wouldn't it?”

“I guess so” Electuroo pulled the plug and got hold of a tower with his hooves to dry himself off “I be out in a few minutes auntie”

“Alright I be waiting outside the bedroom” Daring Do leaves him be.

Braeburn came up to the door as Daring Do exit it “Howdy Daring Do, how my bud Electuroo doing? Did he manage to figure out to use the bath?” Daring Do nods “Eeyup that good on him, ah managed to figure it out as well and got to say it was a real amazing experience”

“How about you keep the excitement of it down a level, do you want them to know where we really from?” Daring Do whispers to him

Braeburn looked over his right seeing a guard walking by “Yeah ah can see what y'all mean. Do not sweat it, ah'm going to keep it a down a level” whispered back.

“That good, now have you found anything out about this world?” she keeping her voice low.

Braeburn nods “Indeed not much to go by on finding out about Black Rose, ah did ask a few of the local guards about it ma'am but no leads” Braeburn pulled out a map from his saddle bag “Ah was given this though, it a map of the kingdom”

Daring Do took it and looked “Nice work Braeburn, with this we could figure out where to go to find out anything of Black Rose” she put a hoof on one point “Look like this is almost centre of everything, Ponyville from the name of the place” she turn to him “It has a chain of rail links that could get us everywhere”

Braeburn smirked “Ah don't believe it... look it A....” Daring Do quickly tackled him to the ground and put a hoof over his mouth.

“Don't you dare as it” he shakes his head and she lets go “You and that word... so there a town similar to your farm name, doesn't mean a thing...” Daring Do said to him quietly as he got up and a guard came up to them.

“I heard something here, what happened?”

“Nothing partner, just tripped that all” he smirked “Ya not need to worry, sorry for causing any trouble partner” Braeburn put on a brave smile to the guard.

The unicorn nods “Very well, just be careful ok? Some of the items on display are not replaceable”

“Will do sir” Braeburn replied and the guard leaves.

Electuroo came out with his gear on “What was all the noise out here?”

“Nothing to worry about nephew, now lets get some breakfast” Daring Do makes her way down the hall with them following.

They soon was at the table in the dining room, which was pretty big, we the large round table they sat at, the windows showed of different ponies and seem to be of history, Daring Do also took note of the view from the window of the mountain which was quite the view for those sitting there and the light from the sun bring in maximum lighting to the white pillars and the different forms of statues that resided inside, at the table a unicorn put some refreshments down for the guests as Daring Do just smirked seeing Electuroo and Braeburn talking to each other about their first night in this wonderful world and enjoying their breakfast.

“I am sorry to cut you boys off like this but we need to think of what to do about getting the crystal back, one we know that she thrown us way off course and she could be anywhere” Daring Do speaks to the two stallions they looking over to her.

“Daring Do ah'm was thinking about that, ya think the library will have records of any ruins that look similar to the empire ruins back home?” Braeburn suggested to the adventure pony

Electuroo holding the cup with his hooves “And I could check up on any news on crystal thefts around here, it could lead us to her, she is after certain crystals”

“Then it settled, me and Braeburn will take the library, you go on the streets of Canterlot and ask about Black Rose” Daring Do said to each of them “And then we meet up at the local train station and make our move from there, ok?”

“Ok” both replied.

“Morning my little ponies, I see you have settled into having breakfast already, I hope it to your liking” they all turn to see Celestia walk in and sat with them with some distance “I heard from my sister Luna you all came out of the catacombs from below Canterlot, I do wonder how you got there”

Daring Do spoke “The breakfast been great so far and we enjoyed the stay here as well, as for how we got there, not a clue in the world. One minute we was finally going after the thief that stole Electuroo's crystal that been in the family for a very long time I might add and wham we was inside the catacombs of Canterlot the forgotten mines” Daring do explained to her a brief version of events.

Celestia listened to her when pouring the tea. “It was my mothers and given to me since I was the oldest out of me and my sister, the residents of where we live been having problems with this thief for quite some time, she called Black Rose, no one been able to catch her but we almost did when she stole the Stardust Crystal...” Electuroo sighed “Then we was under this palace in those mines and met Princess Luna”

“I see, I have no name of a mare called Black Rose, I can see why you have taken this theft very seriously... I will do what I can here to get any information on Black Rose, if she strikes again in Equestria I will have word pass to the guards through out the land including the Crystal Empire” Celestia said to them with a kind voice.

Braeburn almost chocked on his food “Did y'all say Crystal Empire?”

“Yes it only been a few years since it return from being gone for 1000 years” Celestia replied “I am surprised you haven't heard of it”

Daring Do smirked “What he means that we all heard stories but never really knew if it really did return”

“Hmm that would explain it” Celestia replied “Is there anything else I can do for you?”

“We would like access to the library here in the palace, we might be able to get some leads of our own, one thing we do know Black Rose hunts for rare and special crystals” Daring Do explained. “No one quite sure why”

“Very strange... very well you can have access to the library” Celestia drinks some of her tea and start to eat breakfast with her and Luna's guests.

Daring Do wink to them knowing that the plan still a go and by evening they will depart for their next destination. But for now they enjoyed their breakfast with one of the co-ruler of the land, being a little noticed had a slight edge for Daring Do since they can now access the library inside the palace...

Celestia whispered to her “The problem is if she caused no trouble here and all I got is your word I won't be able to do anything to detain her or follow her if she doesn't have it on her” Celestia warned Daring Do.

Daring Do nods “Since she not been seen or heard without causing any trouble and not know about means if she came forward there is little I can do and following her would get me into more trouble too... I can see what you mean Princess Celestia, thank you for the heads up”

“Your welcomed Daring Do... but I will keep a eye out for her though and see if she does has it or any stolen items on her” Daring Do nods again to what Celestia whispered knowing all she could do is hope that Black Rose does slip up... But for now she went on enjoying breakfast with the other two and Celestia.

Canterlot Palace Library...

Daring Do with Braeburn stood inside the Canterlot Library in aware and amazement, the library was filled with books and scrolls with many rows of sections to it. “Erm... how do we find the ruins section? There a lot of books and scrolls here...”

“I have no idea Braeburn... just wonder around and look I guess” Daring Do walked up to what seem to be a massive hour glass “Wow that one big hour glass... I wonder how the sand keeps falling like that and how long it been doing that” she studied the hour glass

Braeburn rolled his eyes and turn to a section of the library walking down it, he can across a different set of ponies from in and out of town from the guess of it reading some books to themselves or taking a scroll or two out of the shelves on step ladders, he was amazed how they took it with their hooves, but he did the same thing with some of the food so he guessed it was a magic thing to do with the magical talking pony he became.

He pulled out a book seeing it had a title of 'Daring Do' on it “This must be one of the books Princess Luna spoke of, sweet” he knew he had to find the books on ruins but he had to check the story book out, carrying it over with his mouth, he placed it on the table and flip the pages over. “Yeehew this is what y'all talking about, a action in a story” he whispered noticing some look at him. “Sorry partner” he grinned sheepishly and they just went back to reading or whatever they was doing...

Daring Do saw him reading the book and shook her head and step up to the section on history and artefacts, Daring Do put a hoof on a book when another reach for it too, a purple hoof she trailed her eyes to whom was reaching for it, she was a young alicorn for sure “Sorry ma'am I'll let you have it first” Daring Do said and took what she had flying over to a table and noticed the wide eyed stare from the young purple princess. “Are you going to keep staring at me or say something kid, cause I got things to do then have somepony gunk at me”

She shook her head and spoke up “I-I'm sor-sorry but y-your...”

“Yeah yeah Daring Do the adventurer of a life time, kid I packed my bags of that eight years ago, another day, another temple, dungeon, adventure and what. You would lose your taste after you been through a trap that really make you think...” Daring Do sighed thinking about that very trap that changed her life forever... “You got a name?” she turn to the princess sitting by her now.

“Oh my name is Twilight Sparkle, I am returning to Ponyville this afternoon after spending a few days here, what exactly do you mean by 'a trap that really make you think' if you don't mind me asking?” Twilight asked with wonder.

Daring sighed again taking her hat off looking at it. “Eight years ago I am a team was exploring a new set of ruins that seem to worship something to do with rising the sun and moon... I won't go into the details but there was one nasty boobytrap that sent me back 100 years into the past... I lived 20 years through that time exploring and everything else since there was no way to getting back, so I thought what the heck I explore and do what I do best, then wham without warning at one of the digs I gasp with shock and found myself young again and well in the present day, the team said I vanished in a blinding light and appeared again in ten seconds... ten seconds... I lived 20 years in a space of ten seconds... that when it hit me, I told we leaving and levelling that thing to the ground and that we did... the last real adventure of the great Daring Do... poof in one big bang, no one would go through what I did and no one knew of what I experienced part from those that was with me and my family and friends...” Daring Do explained to Twilight Sparkle her eyes closed with some tears falling.

“Wow th-that... I can't place any words on this... I never heard of a magical boobytrap doing something like before... but if that the case then...” Twilight stared at her

“My grandmother? Ha it a lie, it was me, a cover up, not a good one I admit but Celestia most likely put two and two together already and knew I was making that up.” Daring Do pulled back a scroll looking to it.

“Your really are Daring Do... but the books...”

“Books, fiction and half truths, there was no crazy monkey hand tail creature for sure... but there is one thorn in my back and she right behind us...” Daring Do turn and so did Twilight. “Black Rose...”

“A Black Rose by any other name isn't as sweet Miss Do” the white unicorn smirked “sad to say you have nothing on me, I came to the Princess and my story checked out, I been here a whole three days ahead of you Daring Do and done nothing wrong, so I am free to do as I please” Black Rose turn to Twilight. “The bearer of the element of magic it a pleasure to meet you” she bowed a little.

Twilight stared at her “What do you have against Daring Do?”

“Oh it a little history between us, as one thing for sure these books never showed whom the true villain was” she chuckled “But that only a story since there is no proof that I did such actions and without proof or evidence here in Equestria I can not be held against my will and such” Black Rose replied in a calm manner. “Unless you count Sunset Shimmer of course”

Twilight eyes widen “Wh-what!? How do you know about her!?”

“Oh I just had to look it up, a bad apple that didn't get what she wanted and such, I just looked it up, quite surprised how openly you can find good information when you need to look” Black Rose walking around them. “I can freely speak since this happened oh nine months ago, but what going to do Twilight? Call the guards for me speaking about something that written in ink?” Black Rose drop the scroll in front of them and opened it with her magic showing exactly what she meant.

Daring Do gritted her teeth “Oh and Daring, I don't have the Stardust Crystal, let say... I lost it in transit” she smirked and trots away before looking to them once more “Oh and Daring Do I forgot to say, look at the mid section and add it up, your in a lot more trouble then me” Black Rose leaves.

“Curse that no good for nothing...” Daring Do pauses and sighed heavily “I really hate that unicorn...”

Twilight frowned looking to the scroll “She right though, I can't do anything, it common knowledge because it right here but the mid section only talks about how I met counterparts of my friends in the alternate world, it was kind of a mirror to ours but filled with technology, non-magical things and tall fleashy things with hands called humans” Twilight turn to Daring Do “that kind of crazy right?”

Daring Do look to the scroll and saw it “Quick question Twilight... do you know anypony in any part of Equestria by the name of Electuroo?”

Twilight thought about it “Not really, what does he look like exactly?”

“A electric yellow pegasus pony with black and cream mane and tail with three black lightning bolts as a cutie mark”

“Never seen anypony by that description, why? Are you looking for him?” Twilight asked with wonder.

Daring Do “Not really I asked him to check out around the city for any news on a crystal and Black Ro... oh no... if he sees her he going to go nuts!”

“Wh-why!?” Twilight look very startled by this. “What is it to you?”

“His my nephew! If he sees her, he going to attack her without a question asked! She stole something from him and without proof he going to be in more trouble then her!”

Twilight gasped “I can see where your going on this, quick come with me I know a quick way into the streets” Daring Do nods and both make a dash out the library fast they could.

Electuroo...

Electuroo wondered the streets looking around, he was amazed by the number of ponies walking around doing their daily thing, it made him remember hope specially the a restaurant he came up to it “Donut Joe's?” he walked in looking around seeing some ponies enjoying a doughnut or two. “Wow not bad”

Electuroo came up to the counter “Hello there can I help you?” the large unicorn said standing in the other side of the counter “And the name Joe, I own this restaurant”

Electuroo nods “Could guess from the name, but nice place, kind of remind me of the restaurant my mum works at, they sell all sorts of cool treats, she a customer care manager”

“Sound like your homesick”

“You can say that even it been a few days now... I just hope she ok with me being so far from home” Electuroo looked to the sortment of donuts “I am with my aunt out here though so things are ok I guess...” he noticed one donut “No way... The Double Chocolate Supreme!?”

“Sound like you got good taste, that be two bits and all yours” Joe said to him.

Electuroo gasped realizing that he checked his saddle bag “Crud I don't have any cash on be... damn it...” he raised his head “Thanks Joe but I just realised I left without getting Bits off my aunt...”

“Hey here the bits” two coins landed by Electuroo and he turn to whom gave the coins it was a rainbow maned pegasus then it hit him like a bombshell he knew that colour from anywhere it was the captain of the soccer team at Canterlot High the team that beat Crystal High few months ago...

“Here you go” Joe put it on a tray with is magic and went to serve another costume.

“Name Rainbow Dash, what yours?”

Electuroo blinked a few times “Huh? Oh sorry... names Electuroo just been here for a few days... you didn't need to do that for me...”

“Nah it cool, and from the look of that cutie mark your a bit of a flyer” Rainbow Dash smirked “Also you got good taste”

Taking the tray with his mouth he followed her to the table and sat down putting the tray on it. “Well not sure much at the moment... having a bit of a rough time remembering how to use my wings” he almost felt a gut kick when lying like that but he knew the headache he had could be used. “I, my friend and my aunt was after somepony for stealing a crystal that been in the family for a long time and we ended up in the catacombs below Canterlot, had a real nasty headache and since then having troubling using my wings”

Rainbow Dash grinned “Well once you chowed on that, I will help ya”

He stared “You just met me, how can you possibly do that just like that?”

“Well can't leave a fellow flyer hanging could I? Plus you own me for the doughnut and think of this as payment” Rainbow Dash said to him and he look to the doughnut and back to her. “Fair deal right?”

Electuroo thought about it, he would love to fly with these wings and had to agree it be cool “Alright Rainbow Dash it a deal” she put her wing out and saw her waiting for him to do so with his right wing to her left, he did so and she slap her wing against it and repaid it with his own movement.

“Just don't be slow or I will kick your flank got it?” he nods and start eating the doughnut.

“Wow this is just like the ones back at home” he loved the texture and taste of it then eating the last he saw something that made him swell in anger spitting out the last of it he glared with total hate in his eyes “BLACK ROSE!”

Black Rose the white unicorn with black mane and tail smirked seeing the fury in his eyes “Hello there kid”

He was about to have a go at her but Rainbow Dash held him back “You have some nerve showing up you black witch!” he spat with anger “Where my mum's crystal! You thief!” every pony stopped looking to them.

“Oh please I don't have it and you think I did I would be here” Black Rose said calmly to him. “Think about it, I haven't done a single thing wrong here in Equestria so you laying a hoof on me will be as you would say... regrettable”

Rainbow Dash still holding him back stared at her “I don't know what your problem is but whatever you took give it back and you can get lost”

“Oh please like I said I have nothing that he said on me, I am no thief”

“Liar!” Electuroo broke free from Rainbow Dash but Daring Do in a blur of grey-scaled rainbow colours rammed into him and pinned him to the ground “Auntie get off me! Let me at her!!!”

Twilight arrived to see the scene, the yellow pegasus was raging with fury and hate to the white unicorn “My my look who got a temper, now I be on my way, I got some shopping to do” the white unicorn slowly walked away with a smirk on her face.

Rainbow Dash saw who it was and couldn't believe her eyes “Oh my gosh, Oh my gosh, Oh my gosh, Oh my gosh, Oh my gosh, Oh my gosh, Oh my gosh, Oh my gosh, Oh my gosh, Oh my gosh” she kept repeating over and over again.

Daring Do still kept her nephew pinned “We have nothing on her in this place, think about it kid” he looked at her in the eyes as he started to calm a little “She lost it and now trying to find it, from the look of things the gate way was not working correctly for us or for her, it a one way portal which means...” she talking to him in a low voice that no one could hear her speak. “We stuck here till further notice”

Electuroo eyes turn to shock “Y-you mean...”

“Yes our trip to getting the crystal back has just gone from crazy to insane...” Daring Do sighed “Now I am going to let you up, are you going to control that temper of yours and not flung out at that black hearted wretch” he nods to her quietly. “Good now up on your hooves” she moved and he got up.

A few guards came over “What going on around here?”

Twilight quickly spoke “Nothing to worry about it been sorted sir, it was a bit of a miss understanding and been resolved, family thing you know?”

The guards look to the two pegasi then back “Very well princess, thank you for clearing it up for us” she nods and they go off back on their patrol. Twilight came up to them “I am glad that we got here when we did, you could have been in more trouble then Black Rose, I know you are telling the truth Daring Do but it one ponies word against another, no real proof to back it up...”

“I know” she sighed and turn to the rainbow maned pony “Is she ok? It looks like she stuck in some sort of track loop”

Twilight turn to see her friend still speaking out 'oh my gosh' “I think you broke her Daring Do...”

“Didn't know my aunt had that kind of effect on others” Electuroo tilt his head a little then turn to Twilight 'Oh crap not another one! That Twilight Sparkle! The principle's little sister!' he quickly whispered to Daring Do “Auntie I think we in trouble, this isn't another world it a parallel one!”

“Do you think I haven't figure that out, soon as I read the scroll that Black Rose dropped on us in the library, that why I raced out here” Daring Do whispered back. “I just glad I still got speed behind these wings”

Rainbow Dash finally broke out of her speechless loop and stared at Daring Do “Y-y-you real... bu-but...”

Daring Do rolled her eyes “Yes I am real but don't go crazy, half the things those books have on me are almost not true, some things did happen in truth but others didn't. It mealy fiction”

“Right of course” Rainbow Dash shook her head and dashes off and comes back with her bag taking out a book “But can you hoof and mouth sign this for me! Please!!!!”

“Gah fine... just chill ok” Daring Do takes a quill from Twilight and signs it and put her hoof on it too.

“Oh my gosh this is soooooo awesome!” Rainbow Dash held it to her as it was the most valuable thing in the world.

Twilight smiled “You wouldn't believe this Rainbow but one story that is true and never been told, is how she lived 100 years in the past for 20 years in ten seconds flat”

“H-how is that possible?” Rainbow Dash turn to her alicorn friend.

Electuroo turn to his aunt “You told Twilight about the time magic boobytrap!?”

“Yes”

“But auntie never told anyone about it, only me, my mum and those that was there when it happened...” Electuroo was shocked.

“Whoa whoa whoa, did you say 'auntie'?” Rainbow Dash stared at Electuroo.

“Ye-yeah... she my aunt and my mums younger sister... why?”

“Oh my gosh I get to help Daring Do's nephew out to fly again! How sweet is that Twilight!?” Rainbow Dash was over joyed by this.

“Electuroo...” Daring Do stared at her nephew “What did you do...”

“I-I well... you see I was hunger and forgot my money and well Rainbow Dash gave me the Bits for it and well she going to help me fly again exchange for the doughnut she got me...”

Daring Do groans “Fine... but first let go back and get your friend... he most likely still in the library reading those novels... I thought acting in a movie was bad enough...” she said walking with him back to the library.

“Movie?” Rainbow Dash turn to Twilight “When did that happen?”

“Not a clue, guess after that event with that temple she gave up her adventures and went into the acting business.” Twilight replied. “But can't blame her though... if I fell into a trap like that I would be shaken to the core and rethink of life can offer”

Rainbow Dash watch them leave and turn to Twilight once more “Care to explain?”

“Sure thing, come back to the library with me and I will tell you on the way” Rainbow Dash nods in agreement and they depart following the two pegasi back to the library telling Rainbow Dash what Daring Do told Twilight...

Black Rose stood by the shop corner “It only a minor setback Daring Do and things will start to get interesting from here on out... it about time I leave this city and start my search for the Stardust Crystal...” Black Rose turns and walks into the crowd of ponies heading for the train station soon disappearing into the mass of ponies...

Chapter 5: What to Do

A Black Rose by any Name...

Chapter 5: What to Do...

Slowly walking through the streets Electuroo was trying to make sense of what happened exactly, not only two ponies look similar to those he seen or met once but had the same names, Daring Do also seem a bit startled by this but knew that for some unknown reason her and her nephew was one of a kind and not have parallel versions of themselves unless she counted the 20 years of life she had in the past and made a name for herself in this reality counted as anything.

Electuroo decided to put a theory to a test “I saw something on the map, what exactly is Appaloosa? A town or something?” he asked the two mares.

Twilight showed her casual smile “Sure is a town, it home to some country ponies, one of them is a cousin to a friend of ours”

“Yeah Applejack's crazy cousin Braeburn gave Twilight and the others some crazy 30 second tour, I would of loved to see that but the whole buffalo thing was a bit crazy” Rainbow Dash chuckled “At the end it was all solved and now ponies and buffalos get along at Appaloosa, neat right?”

Electuroo was amazed how much they just gave and it was a gold mine for him and Daring Do “I say it is, the most exciting thing happens where I live is when trying to keep out of the way of the bullies at my school...”

“Wait what?” Daring Do took this chance to head to the library as Rainbow Dash and Twilight stopped and turned to the stallion.

'Good one nephew, now keep them busy'

Electuroo saw their reaction with Rainbow Dash speaking out with surprise. “It true, I get picked on all the time, even the others join in calling me by my name in a weird tone of voice sounded that my own disability is at fault for whom I am...”

“Don't you think that kind of harsh?” Twilight frowned

Rainbow Dash shook her head “if it anything like flight school then I have to say some of the young fliers would pick on ya, they did with Fluttershy till I stepped in and after all these years later they still call me Rainbow Crash, so I know how it feels”

Electuroo sighed “I have a friend that stick by me and he suffers because of it...”

Twilight got curious about the disability he spoke of “What exactly is your disability if you don't mind telling us”

He tap his hoof on his head “It to do with my learning and such, it takes me a lot of effort to learn new things, my spelling and grammar is just as horrible too. But on a plus side to it my imagination is hyper active for writing my own little personal stories to drawings and I am pretty good a maths too,also like staring at the night sky wondering what out there beyond the world, keeping a open mind and kind of into those things that natural happen without any aid. You could all me a multi hobbyist”

“Don't forget flying since that the core to your cutie mark right?” Rainbow Dash point her hoof to his flank.

Electuroo nods “Sure is when I get them working again” he knew that wasn't true but he had to play along and buy his aunt time...

Twilight wanted to put his maths to the test “Alright here a question for you, what is the square root of 93?”

Electuroo thought about it sitting there on his flank moving his hooves around working it in his head “I think it 9.643... that if I remember it right...”

“This is mostly right” Twilight beamed “So you can remember things like that huh?”

“Well long term is pretty good but short term is another problem”

Rainbow Dash looked at him with front legs crossed “Well then you should know how to use your wings”

Electuroo realised this and knew she just found a hole in his story. “Right...” he knew he had to try he saw how she took off with a few flaps and gave it a try opening them up he flapping his wings a few times feeling the strength in them he felt his hooves leave the ground as he hovered above it a few feet. “Whoa...” he looked down with armament then he settled down slowing the flapping till he was on ground again. “Is that proof enough?”

Rainbow Dash was just grinning “Guess the right kick in the flank was what you needed”

Electuroo stared at her in disbelief “You tricked me!?”

“Sure did and it worked didn't it? It got your nerves going and your wings pumping right?” Rainbow Dash put her hoof on his chest “So how does it feel? Awesome right?”

He look to her hoof on his chest and back into her eyes... he couldn't stop looking at them but turn his eyes down a little “It did feel awesome but no one part from my only friend and family helped me out when I needed it...” he sighed pushing her hoof off his chest. “It just hard accepting that you helped me... a complete stranger...” he looked away feeling sadness well up deep inside.

Twilight look to Dash and back to him “Well we can change that by being your friend Electuroo and get to know you”

Rainbow Dash put a wing over him “Yeah, so stop sobbing like a foal and smile”

Electuroo raised his head looking to them both “It been while since I made friends this fast, the only other time was my pal...”

“Who is your friend any way? You keep talking about him but nothing about who or what he look like” Twilight stated

“Yeah, so what is his name?” Rainbow Dash joined

Electuroo knew he couldn't say it. Then it was time to spring open the jack in the box “Where did my aunt go?” he spoke looking around even he knew where she ran off to.

Twilight looking around as well “We must have been too engrossed in talking to notice she went ahead of us” forgetting about the question she just asked.

“I bet my aunt already at the library” Electuroo start heading back there.

“Wait for us, I want to spend more time with the famed Daring Do!” Rainbow Dash raced after him as he galloped to the castle.

Twilight rolled her eyes “So much for going home this afternoon” she runs after them.

Daring Do...

During the time she departed from the two ponies and Electuroo to get back to the library double time, she entered it to find Braeburn where she left him and sighed happily “Braeburn”

He turned to her putting the book down “Howdy Daring, where did y'all run off to, ah couldn't find ya anywhere in the library”

“I ran into Princess Twilight Sparkle and to make things worse this world it parallel to our own...” Daring Do showed the map pointing her hoof to the town “Guess who lives in that town...”

Braeburn look to her then the town “Ya telling me there another me there... one that comes from this world?” Daring Do nods “Aw nuts...” Braeburn got the picture in full. “Then what we going to do? Ah came to help mah compadre and now this? Ah can't do anything if ah spotted by him or anyone that might mistaken me for him”

“I know... I wish I knew this from the beginning but I didn't!” Daring Do put her hooves over her head with a groan. “I am sorry for this Braeburn...”

“It swell mah friend how was we suppose to know?” Braeburn replied then recalled something “Mah cousin did say something about a pony princess when she was last round, but wasn't sure what Applejack meant but it, ah just thought it was one of those dance crown things like the Wondercolts of Canterlot High and...” he paused

Daring Do also heard that word “I think we just past boring point... Black Rose played as right into her hands... she had a feeling we could come after her but didn't expect to lose the crystal on route to here... Braeburn till we know what to do can you go back to your room and wait for me and Electuroo?”

“Then what will we do after that Daring?”

“No idea... till I am very sure to spill the beans about Black Rose in our world, we have to lay low and come up with a way to not only find the Stardust Crystal... but also find a way home.” Daring Do explained. “Now get to your room and wait for me and Electuroo ok?” he nods and leaves quickly as asked.

Daring Do look to the books he had out and scrolls they was off ruins and all seem to had a connection or two between each of them but all been explored inside and out from the details she could see while checking out the details inside them “Just doing a quick check it just more dead ends... how can a crystal slip out of her hooves and go completely missing just like that? The crystal is purer then any crystal around... not even I dragon could eat that...”

“Strange as that sounds why?” Daring Do turn to see Twilight, Rainbow Dash and Electuroo behind her with Twilight asking the question.

Daring Do took off her pitched hat and look to the books “The crystal is very old, if any dragon found it they wouldn't even dare eating it”

Rainbow Dash look to all the scrolls and books on ruins “Going on a new adventure huh? That be awesome to come along on one of those!”

Daring Do laughed at her thrilled Rainbow Dash was but she knew she had to burst her bubble “The ruins I checked in these books all been looked through inside and out, heck most I been in when I was in the past, have a look at the name in each report that written in these books”

Rainbow Dash open it and quickly scans it to find Daring Do's name on it “Whoa this the real deal... but how come I never saw this before?”

“I can answer that Rainbow Dash, you don't read 'egg head' stuff only Daring Do stories remember?” Twilight explained that very simple reason. “I knew of Daring Do from the fictional series and from the other books such as this I read. There the real deal Daring and the fiction Daring. Both have similar traits to each other but in the end the real deal Daring before us is about...”

“20% more awesome then that of the stories!” Rainbow Dash yelled

“SHHHH!!!” came a reply from many ponies glaring at Rainbow Dash

Rainbow Dash put her hooves over her mouth “Hehe sorry”

Electuroo pick up one of them with his hooves “Wow did you really find all these temples, ruins and such through out the jungles, deserts and mountains?” he flipping over the pages looking at the images in them. “I have to agree with Dash, you are 20% awesome when looking at this, mum said you was always on the go when younger but this, it mind blowing”

Daring Do rubbed her hoof on Electuroo's mane “Kid if anything you are, your my nephew and no matter what those stupid idiots think of you back at home you are more then them and they know it”

“Got to admit that one, I showed the bullies when I was yougner at flight school how much better I was to them” Rainbow Dash said with pride.

Twilight used her magic to pull up a piece of paper and look to it “Wow that really beautiful is that the Stardust Crystal?”

Electuroo nods “Yeah it been in the family for quite some time, about 6000 years, most of it here say now but one thing that kept is the song behind the crystal... a song my mum sung to me and my sister all the time when I was younger...”

“From the start it came to us

Falling through the night

Shining silver light

Take the darkness away

*Electuroo flying above them as he sung with the ponies in the library starting to sing the verse with him like chorus*

Shining Stardust, shining light

Upon the light we shall dream tonight

Oh stardust crystal bring us hope

Friends and Family the one the same

*Electuroo flies down and around the shelves twisting around as he sung the next line*

From the heavens it came

From the light it fell

Shining and burning sky

It came to us at a magical moment

Night will never be the same

*The ponies all join in again*

Shining Stardust, shining light

Upon the light we shall dream tonight

Oh stardust crystal bring us hope

Friends and Family the one the same

*Electuroo hovers near the ceiling the part the stars was painted on with strange effects of stars shooting across as he sung*

From that night things changed

Path was set through crystal of the light

Imagination, magic and love

Crystal powers through the heart

Awesome and amazing it is true

*The ponies all join in again*

Shining Stardust, shining light

Upon the light we shall dream tonight

Oh stardust crystal bring us hope

Friends and Family the one the same

*Electuroo steps out of the shadows as he sings the next part and steps back into the dark on the verse after with him standing between Twilight and Rainbow Dash with Daring Do by Dash as he continued to sing*

One step to the light

One step back to the night

Balance of one and balance of two

Two divided by one

One is the same

*The ponies all join in again*

Shining Stardust, shining light

Upon the light we shall dream tonight

Oh stardust crystal bring us hope

*The ponies singing dies down to with only Electuroo to say the last verse*

Friends and Family the one the same”

Daring Do watched as he closed his eyes singing out the last note in a very soft and quieting voice till the music that she heard seem to die away to nothing. She was looking around puzzled where the music came from but she was amazed about his singing voice... she never seen him sing like that ever in her whole life...

“Oh my gosh that was awesome!” Rainbow Dash beamed “You was flying around singing that cool song and everypony even joined in! I must say you really got a awesome song Electuroo!” she punch him on the foreleg with her hoof.

Electuroo rubbing it feeling a little embarrassed “Th-thanks... I don't really know what came over me...”

“It perfectly fine, your song was really touching” Twilight said to him “I wish we could stay some more but me and Rainbow Dash got to get going, or we will miss our train, it nice meeting both of you though”

“Same here” Elecutroo replied with a smile. “I think I feel better now” he breathe lightly. “Not sure why I sung that and everyo-pony joining in like that but I felt alive... very magical in here” he put his hoof on his chest.

Rainbow Dash put her hoof around him “Don't think that not going to get you off from my flying lessons rookie”

Later...

Rainbow Dash and Twilight with Spike was heading back to the train station after saying their goodbyes to their new friends, Rainbow Dash still treasuring the book that was sighed by Daring Do in pony. “Wow you two got to meet the real Daring Do?” Spike asked them both

“Sure did and I have to say she is awesome” Rainbow Dash replied feeling so over thrilled by the idea of meeting a pony she only knew was in a story and now in real life.

Twilight got the tickets “I got admit it was amazing to meet the real deal, even after telling Princess Celestia about her lie she seem to know it already, guess somethings never surprise her”

Spike picked up a box from the bag and open it to show a silver shimmering crystal in it “I can't wait to give this to Rarity” he put it away feeling proud to finding such a beauty and pulls the bag to the train. “I can't wait to get home”

“Same here” Rainbow Dash yawned a little “Next time you ask me to tag along Twilight, I think I will pass, seeing Daring Do is sweet but the last five days been really dull and boring to say the least”

“Whatever you say Rainbow, let get on before we miss our ride home” Twilight gets on with the other two and the train leaves for Ponyville.

Black Rose watches the train leave with a dark smirk on her snout “So that where the Stardust Crystal is? Well this just got interesting... but being among the element bearers is going to make my task on getting it a little bit more difficult then I originally planned...” Black Rose look to the palace “Only a minor set back...”

Chapter 6: Crystal Clear

A Black Rose by any Name...

Chapter 6: Crystal Clear

Spike wondered the streets of Canterlot looking for a gift to get Rarity after Twilight Sparkle gave him a few Bits to spend but he wasn't sure what to get her since everything in Canterlot was quite pricey specially gift wise items, he looked at the window seeing a dress that Rarity would love to get her hooves on but he saw the price tag seeing it was 30 Bits and all he had was 12 Bits, he sighed and walked away holding the bag of coins with a groan.

Spike looked at another few places coming short every time for something for Rarity “Why does everything have to be so expensive for the things Rarity likes...” he sighed heavily.

“Thank you kind sir, I hope that Sapphire Crystal Star come in hoof for your daughters birthday” Spike turn to a cart seeing a few ponies walking away from it.

“It will ma'am thank you for offering them at good value” the stallion said polite back to her

The black mare unicorn Spike saw was shimmering like a crystal pony but he never saw a crystal pony that was a unicorn, but for sure she was with the sparkling coat and white mane and tail he saw all the assortments of crystals from rubies to topaz. “Whoa...” he eyes was wide as dinner plates even his slit eyes was round staring at all the sparking gems and crystals

The crystal pony unicorn smiled looking down at the little purple dragon “Well isn't this a surprise, the hero of the Crystal Empire” she beamed “How can I help you today Spike?”

“Wow you even know my name!” He saw the assortment of gems and knew Rarity would like them. “What is your name?”

“Oh my name is White Rose little friend and I am guessing from the stare your going to ask about my horn?” she tap his snout with her hoof.

Spike rubbed his head a little “Hehe yeah I was... I thought all Crystal Ponies was earth ponies”

White Rose nods “Indeed they are, I am the only one unless you count my twin sister...” she turn her eyes away “Anyway I usually hide my horn just to fit in since the return of the Crystal Empire, having a horn remind them of King Sombra...” White Rose shows him her magic and it disappears from view.

“Whoa, you can make your horn invisible?”

“Indeed” White Rose laughed softly “Oh and on the house have this crystal white rose, it one of my little talents, I can make things out of crystals with my magic” she pulled out a small box and open it showing the rose crystal inside it.

Spike gasped at it “Fo-for free!?”

“Yes for the hero of the Crystal Empire, now what can I sell for you today?” she put a hoof out to the selection of crystals and gems “I can also for a few Bits extra make something for you in mere seconds” White Rose horn reappeared and she was giving him a warm smile.

Spike notice a box in the mix of open jewels “What inside that one?” Spike pointed to it.

White Rose took it off the shelf with her magic “Not quite sure, truth be told... it came out of a strange glowing portal when I was on the way to Canterlot about a week ago. I been unable to sell it” White Rose open it up “I guess coming out of a unknown portal and telling where I got it something to do with unable to sell it...” she sighed.

“Why not come up with a story?” Spike suggested taking the box and looking at the crystal, it was shaped almost like a star but it was shimmering with sliver light sparking as well.

White Rose shook her head “I never been one for lying, I always been about telling the truth where I get my crystals and how I make them, I never once lied, I might hide my horn from my fellow keen at the Crystal Empire but they still know I have the horn, it just makes them comfortable knowing I can still look a lot like them.” she explained to Spike. “I did start selling it at about 69 Bits but because I been unable to sell it I cut the price right back to 12 Bits”

Spike eyes lit up “12 BITS!? Seriously!?”

“I erm... I... could... well lower it if that too steep...” White Rose felt a little shocked by the way he screamed it out and fearing she over pricing it.

“No no no not at all White Rose, in fact I got 12 Bits right here, so I will take it if that ok?” Spike raise his bag of bits to her.

White Rose felt a little bit more calmly “Why would you be interested in a unknown crystal anywhere? I tried all sort of magic on it, I can't shape it, change it or even cut some parts of it. I never seen anything like it in my life... unless you count the Black Star Crystal” she shivered at the thought of it.

“The black what?”

“Oh erm... well it was a magic crystal... I am sorry it a personal issue, family issues...” White Rose felt uneasy talking about it.

“Oh don't worry I won't press the question on if it that too personal” Spike smile then stared at the crystal “I think something as pure as this should be a great gift to Rarity no matter where it came from. So I will take it”

“Thank you Spike” she took the money and smiled warmly “Have a nice day”

“Same to you White Rose” he waves and walks off with the two boxes humming to himself and disappear into the crowd.

“What a nice dragon” White Rose went back to selling her crystals when a white unicorn came up to it “Oh hi I got a lot of lovely...” she paused as she saw who it was with fear in her eyes “Si-sisisi....” she was frozen with fear gulping at the sight whom stood before her.

Black Rose smirked “I see you haven't forgotten me sister” she looking up and down at the crystals “Now I heard you found a crystal on the way to Canterlot by a few ponies, something about a portal”

White Rose nods her head rapidly with her eyes shrunk to pin pricks “Y-ye-yes... Bla-bl-bl...”

“Oh quit stuttering like a filly White Rose, give me it and I be on my way” Black Rose demanded

“I... Do-don't have it anymore... I sold it” White Rose replied

Black Rose glared at her “Damn you White Rose, that crystal I needed for my plains to work, now you made it a lot harder for me... now who did you sell it to”

“No-not tel-telling” White Rose shaking her head in refusal to tell.

Black Rose growled under her breath “You have the count of five to tell me now or I will...” she saw a few guards looking at her. “Damn that Celestia she keeping tabs on me even with my proof I done no wrong...” she stomps her hoof on the ground making White Rose yelp and hide behind her cart with fear “Hide behind your silly little cart because I will find out whom got the crystal...”

White Rose shivering with fear “I won't tell you...” she managed to say. “Not after what you and King Sombra did”

“That father you little twit!” Black Rose sneered. “He the reason why we crystal pony unicorns don't forget it!” Black Rose bucks the cart and storms off in anger.

White Rose use her magic to pick up the crystals scattered all over the ground thanks to Black Rose. “Ma'am would you like us to help?” the guard came up to her.

“Oh please that would be kindful... I just hate getting moody customers like that...” White Rose lied but glad for the help the guard pony was giving her. “Thank you for helping me out”

“It not a problem ma'am. We will make sure she won't cause any more problems for you”

White Rose nods a little “Th-thank you sir...

“Not a problem miss, like I said we will make sure she won't cause any trouble when here in Canterlot” he put a hoof out to her and she took it getting back up on her four hooves. “May I make a suggestion?”

“What would that be sir?”

“Why don't you try selling your business in Ponyville, you sell your gems and crystals at a good price and your magic crafting skills would bring some joy to those there” he said in a calm and gentle manner to the black unicorn.

White Rose thought about it “I could give it a try” she lift the shutters over the cart sliding all the trays back into place and soon it was sealed up. “Thank you for the advice erm... I didn't get your name”

“It Armour Cracker ma'am, my magic is strong enough to crack a shield in two, armour or even large rocks” he chuckled “May I know your name?”

“White Rose” she beamed with a kiss to his side of the snout “That a thank you, don't get any ideas Armour Cracker” she smirked and trots off pulling her cart to the station. “Oh this one on the house” she tossed a white rose made out of crystal to him.

He cause it with his right front hoof and stared at it with a red face “Th-thank you...” he blushing still watches the mare leave. “I so hope she come back to Canterlot after Ponyville...” he whispered dreamily to himself and walks off humming happily.

Present time on the train...

Spike sitting with the girls look to the white rose crystal he was given “Whoa where the hay did you get that Spike?”

“Oh erm...” he turn to Rainbow Dash “It was a gift from one of the crystal ponies, she was selling crystals and craft them into amazing things, she gave me this for free as a thank you for helping save the Crystal Empire” Spike replied staring at it again. “It look so yummy but I can't bring myself to even eating it... it just a beautiful gift...”

Twilight smiled looking to the crystal shape rose “Indeed it is Spike, who was the crystal pony that gave it to you?”

Spike look to it placing it away in the box and turn to Twilight “Her name is White Rose, she a unicorn crystal pony”

Twilight blinked “W-what?”

“A crystal pony that a unicorn, from what I heard she hides it with some illusion magic when back at home, every crystal pony knows she has a horn but they like it when she hides it from public view cause it reminds them of King Sombra, but she also very kind hearted and before they was all saved she worked in the mines like the other crystal ponies” Spike explained to Twilight.

Rainbow Dash put her hooves behind her head sitting against the seat “That would explain it, if I was the only pegasus that was made of crystal and some pony was twisted and dark, then I would like to hide them from public to make my fellow ponies happy”

Twilight stared at Rainbow Dash “Are you ok?”

“Yeah Twi I am fine, just saying Spike got a point” Rainbow sighed “But how can she be a unicorn? I am sure all of them are Earth Pony types”

Twilight only could think of one thing that made her shiver “I think I got a hunch but I rather not say it till I can confirm my theories...”

“Girls please... don't suspect a pony for something bad... she has a good heart, if she didn't then why is she all sparkling like all the crystal ponies, as you said Twilight they all connected to the magic of the Crystal Heart even being far from home if their hearts are pure and filled with friendship and love” Spike said trying to defend White Rose from theories and unworthy fears to the crystal unicorn. “And I completely believe her story, I saw her fear in her eyes and the sadness”

Twilight look to her assistant seeing that dead serious look in his eyes with a smile she put a hoof around him “Your right Spike, we can't judge a pony like that and what you saw and said make me believe it more then ever, thank you Spike for making that crystal clear to us”

“If you put it that way Spike, I am cool with the whole crystal unicorn thing” she closed her eyes “Now if you don't mind I am going to get some zzzzs” Both Twilight and Spike shook their heads and went back to talking to each other quietly not to wake up Rainbow Dash.

White Rose was standing by the door in one of the private rooms of the train with soft smile listening to them speak “Thank you for giving me a chance... I-I am so ever gr-grateful...” she step back in and closes the door. “I am just ashamed to know who my father is... so many of the crystal ponies do too but they know I am not like in at all... I am kind... truthful and honest... I care deeply for my friends back at the Crystal Empire... I did all I can to help them and they knew it but one thing he did manage to do was...” she look at her reflection showing in her imagination the image of her sister. “he made them all forget about her... my sister Black Rose... no books, no information... not even my mother remembers her... even the photos all but one... the one I kept... when we was family...” she pulled it out of her saddle bag with her magic staring at the photo with tears falling as she held it to her chest. “Why did you have to do it father... why...” she sobbed quietly to herself.

Canterlot...

Black Rose walking down the streets with a anger look on her face as the sun sets, she saw Celsetia setting the sun with Luna rising the moon. “Damn those princesses... if only I had the magic to deal with them...” she whispered and continued to walk “I have to play it cool and calm... my father made sure no pony would expect where I come from and only pony that knows is my sister... she a problem I will have to deal with in time... but for now I have to think of how to get the crystal off that lizard...”

She noticed the three ponies at the café across the street eating together. “It them again...” she hissed and step into the shadows glancing over to it “Another problem I must face... no” she paused with a dark smirk “Maybe I could get them to Ponyville and make them think the Elements of Harmony are the thieves... but how could I do that... unless I misdirect them...” Black Rose chuckled “Oh this is too perfect”

Using a spell she changed her appearance and hid her flank in the cloak she put up. “Now to play them into my hooves”

Electuroo eating his hay fries look to Daring Do “Auntie are all leads seriously gone cold?”

“Indeed kiddo... we not only stuck here but with little or no information to go by we at ground zero...” Daring Do sighed and drunk some of her Apple Cider.

“This is a bunch of ponyfeathers that we got no leads... and with me y'all options are limited...” Braeburn felt like being a big let down to them. “If what ah heard is true... it going to be harder...”

Electuroo smirked “Don't let yourself down Braeburn who knew this would happen” he put a hoof on his back “Your still my best friend and person that I got to know, I never leave you hanging”

“Thanks pal” Braeburn replied.

“If only we had one lead on the Stardust Crystal...” Daring Do grumbled

“Stardust Crystal?” they all turn to see a elderly pony walking up to them in a cloak. “Is it by any chance a crystal that look like sliver and shimmers with sparkling light?”

“Yes Ma'am that is it... you seen it?” Daring Do asked her.

“Indeed I have youngling, I saw a small dragon buy it at a stall the other day, I think they live in a place call Ponyville, can't go much more then that young mare” the mare saw their eyes lit up with a smirk on her face she knew her plan was working and putting together what she saw in the afternoon and the day before she knew that dragon had it.

Braeburn gulped “P-pon-Ponyville?”

“Is something wrong with you young stallion? You look like you've seen a windego” Black Rose wanted to see the priceless look on his face even more and burst out laughing but she knew that had to wait.

Electuroo frowned at the elder pony and looked into her eyes, he knew those eyes in a flash “Auntie” he whispers to her “Look at her eyes”

Daring Do did so and saw what he meant then nod to him “Thank you for the tip old mare” she gets up and so does the other two and they leave.

Black Rose watch them leave and moves back to the shadows and change back dropping the robe “Oh this is going to be perfect” she chuckled lightly but unaware that she was discovered by Electuroo. “Now all I have to do is wait and let things play out”

Electuroo, Braeburn and Daring Do arrived at the station looking around they saw no one and quickly gathered together “That was Black Rose I am sure of it” Electuroo whispered to Daring Do

“I have to agree those eyes I never forget...” Daring Do added. “But the question is why she telling us this?”

Braeburn pulled out a book “ah borrowed this from the library, it something to do with Elements of Harmony, maybe it something to do with those in Ponyville”

They all looked at the papers “It says that the six ponies of harmony worked together to stop the evil of Nightmare Moon” she point to the picture “That sure look like Twilight and Rainbow Dash”

“And that look exactly like mah cousin only pony like” he point a hoof to the orange earth pony.

Electuroo looked at Daring Do “So you think she trying to get us to go after the Stardust Crystal for her?”

“I believe so... and something about this elements of harmony that scares her... I only know of the legends about them, never seen them in real life... also never found out where they was and thought Nightmare Moon was a fairy tale too. So if they real then she knows these ponies are a threat to her...” Daring Do replied

“Then what do we do auntie? Do we go in directly thinking she had us fooled or another approach?”

Daring Do thought about it and saw a train pull up with Ponyville on the front of the steam train, a sudden idea came to her and glace to her nephew. “I got a idea...” she smirked when she noticed the suit and top hat in the window of the shop inside the train station then look to Braeburn with Electuroo smiling too.

Braeburn saw that a look in their eyes and his eyes dropped instantly with only two words came to mind...“Aw nuts...”

Chapter 7: Scooping out Ponyville

***A Black Rose by any Name...

Chapter 7: Scooping out Ponyville...***

The evening train from Canterlot arrived at Ponyville in the morning with it coming to a slow many ponies walked out of the carriages onto the platform including a stallion with a posh mane and tail with a black top hat, black suit with white shirt to match with the suit hiding his cutie mark, he looked to the strange half covered posh hoof shoes he was wearing, they wasn't even covering his hooves and looked really weird to him.

He put his hoof to the ear and muttered “Tell me why ah got to do this again...” Braeburn muttered making sure no pony was around to see him talk to no one.

The voice he heard was Daring Do “Twilight and Rainbow Dash seen me and Electuroo but not you, just go with the plan and scout the place out, just try to act posh and don't do anything stupid ok?”

“Fine fine... but still not sure how these are working without a antenna” Braeburn step off the platform looking around the town. “Nice place”

“About the antenna thing well... I had my nephew put one just outside the city by the mountain range, just hope no one finds it” Daring Do voice came through the ear piece inside his pony ear.

“What don't y'all have?” he felt a little annoyed being made to do this...

Daring Chuckled “Well I did say I got things prepared incase we needed, so let leave it at that, you got a job to do...”

“Fine fine...” he muttered “over and out...” he trots through town looking around to see where to go first “Where in tarnation do ah go first?” he groans wishing he had some sort of town map to know where he going at least... He twitch his snout finding the orange moustache he was wearing to be irritating to his fur, he knew it was part of the disguise but he hated it right off the bat..

“Oh hi ya!” he turn quickly to see a pink pony right before him “Are you new in town? Of course you are! I never seen anypony like you around!”

Braeburn was looking around with puzzlement then back to her “Erm... yeah... how...”

“Oh silly me I forgot to tell you my name! I am Pinkie Pie! Welomce to Ponyville! What your name?” she was bouncing around him

“M-my name... well it erm...”

Daring Do spoke into his ear piece “Rare Fruit” he heard Electuroo chuckled in the background.

Braeburn was now feeling really silly. “Rare Fruit... ah own a business in the city and looking around to see if mah business could work here too” Braeburn felt that the story the two pegasi came up with was stupid no way he thought she believe him.

“Oh that cool so you here for the day or more? I really love throwing parties for new ponies!” Pinkie Pie giggled

Braeburn raise his hoof “Thank ya Pinkie Pie but y'all don't need to, ah'm only here today and going home tonight, but if ya like y'all could give me a tour of the town” he hope she would compromise to his idea then get involved in a party.

Pinkie Pie thought about it and nods “Okie Dokie Lokie! Tour it is!” He sighed in relief inside as he smiled seeing she did. “What do you like to see first Rare Fruit?”

“Y'all lead ah follow” he replied putting a hoof out “Thank ya for the compromise”

“No problemo! Rarey! Oh your voice sound like somepony I met before” She put her hoof on her snout “Do you know a pony called Braeburn?”

“Never heard of a pony by the name of Braeburn Miss Pie” he replied trying not to look too shocked that he almost got discovered.

“Oh ok, you do really sound like him, maybe because your a southern pony like him”

Braeburn nods “Maybe that the case partner, mah parents own a apple orchard before ah moved to Canterlot to run mah business”

“Ooooo then our first time is Sweet Apple Acres!!!” Pinkie Pie bouncing away “Come on silly billy!”

Braeburn spoke silently “Starting to check out for the crystal”

“Ok we will stay in touch” Daring Do replied through it.

Canterlot...

Electuroo sitting in the room with Daring Do by the tablet listening to the chatter between Pinkie Pie and Braeburn “So far so good” Daring Do spoke to Electuroo and munch down on a apple.

Electuroo sat on the window side with front legs behind his back chilling “For him or us?” she shook her head at that comment and he turn to the view of the city below “Auntie do you think Black Rose be spying on us?”

“Most likely” Daring Do ate the last of the apple. “Do you see her?”

Electuroo scanned the area he had limited view of “Not a hair of her”

“Trust me she there, like the thief of the night back in our world she a over confident person” Daring Do sat back in her chair. “All we have to do is keep her thinking that we fell for her little plan”

Electuroo yawned “Ok auntie, I am going to take a nap...” he closed his eyes and shifted a little.

Daring Do rolled her eyes “Kids...” she went back to checking on what the talking between Pinkie Pie and Braeburn to get the information she needed most, the location of the Stardust Crystal...

Black Rose using some binoculars hovering over her eyes with her magic took a look at Electuroo snoozing away at the white side. “Strange...” she took another look then put them down. “It seem they trying to figure out to get there and out without being noticed I am guessing... but it a small town, there no way they could unless Daring Do going use her fame as a way to sneak Braeburn through with Electuroo to get the crystal”

Black Rose took the tea pot with her magic and pour the drink into the cup then glance to the palace through the hotel window she sat by “Either way they will be exposed and everything will fall into place with me getting my hooves on the Stardust Crystal... I didn't spend 15 years on the alternate world to not only take over this worthless kingdom but now to get revenge on my father and bring him back... those no good for nothing ponies will be sorry for what they did... but luckily I got the perfect body to restore my father” she smirked.

Black Rose saw no change to Electuroo and went back to drinking her tea “Only a waiting game now... all I have to do is wait till my plan is set in motion”

Sweet Apple Acres...

Braeburn and Pinkie Pie walked up to the entrance of the farm, Braeburn took a look around the farm. “Quite the place this Sweet Apple Acres, it sure remind me of home... wonder how ma and pa are at the moment...” he feeling a little home sick...

“Hey lookie it Applejack” he snapped out of it when he saw the mare walking to the barn with a cart full of apples, Pinkie Pie bouncing over to her “Hey Applejack!” she called out.

Braeburn couldn't believe what he was seeing it was his cousin in every way but pony version “Howdy Pinkie Pie” Applejack wiped the sweat off her head with her hoof. “What brings ya to Sweet Apple Acres?”

“Oh I brought a new friend here, he lives in Canterlot but his family owns a apple orchard just like yours” Pinkie Pie replied waving him over.

Applejack watched the stallion come up and frowned “Pinkie is this some sort of prank? That Braeburn wearing some stupid moustache and posh up suit”

He step up to them “That there here name again, who exactly is Braeburn?” he playing to the story that Daring Do came up with. “Name Rare Fruit”

Applejack shook her head “Not buying it Braeburn, ah know that voice from anywhere, ya and Pinkie Pie not fooling me”

He felt a little uneasy but kept to it best he could “Ah run a business in Canterlot, my ma and pa run the farm ah grow up on, ah sell their fruits there”

Applejack still didn't seem to buy it “Ok then say Appaloosa”

Daring Do heard this and was uneasy “Braeburn don't blow this”

Braeburn took everything he had for not crying it out and spoke “Appaloosa...” he managed not to scream it out “Is that here town south of Ponyville that ah saw on the map?”

Applejack saw the strain but he didn't burst it out and smirked “Ok Y'all not mah cousin sorry about that partner. Thought it was one of Rainbow Dash or Pinkie Pie's pranks”

“Ah was unaware of such a thing” Braeburn look to Pinkie Pie

She just giggled “Oh it ok, we did do some fun pranks, oh come on it time to show you the rest of Ponyville!”

“Nice meeting ya Applejack” he bowed to her and trots off after Pinkie Pie whom bouncing away.

“Nice meeting ya too Rare Fruit and sorry for the miss understanding!” she called out

“Not a problem partner, everyone makes mistakes” he called and rush off to catch up with the pink pony whom was way ahead of him already.

Applejack blinked “Did he say everyone?”

The next stop was the library when Daring Do spoke again “Are you at the Library by any chance?”

“Yes” he whispered seeing Pinkie Pie talking to Twilight “Why Daring?”

“There a crystal inside there that I need you to pick up. Before it was a library during the early days I hid a crystal there, it behind a tilted shelf” Daring Do explained.

Bareburn was confused “What? But that was over 80 years ago wasn't it y'all?”

“Indeed, I left a letter in your pocket” Daring Do replied

He took it out and saw the letter walking over with his three remaining hooves he came up them “Howdy”

“Oh hi, I heard from Pinkie Pie your just visiting for the day and looking to set up some new business” Twilight said with a smile. “Got to admit that I can see why Applejack miss took you for a friend of ours”

“It quite alright, but ah decided not to set up shop here... ah respect other farming family business and if ah did it could harm their business. So just a visit be fine, but ah did talk to a pegasus by the name of Daring Do, she asked me to pick up something for her that was left in this place over 80 years ago... ah never thought a pegasi could live that long specially someone that look so young” He knew that Daring Do heard all that and she was going to either thank him or kick his flank when he gets back.

“Oh?” he gave her the letter and she reads it “What this?” she looked at it while holding it with her magic “A crystal that been in here since the early days of Ponyville? Well I didn't know that, if Daring Do left it here then I guess I can get it for you” she walks in and look around “Spike is there a tilted shelf in here?”

“Oh yeah there is, it right over there” he points as he walk by them carrying a box “I am off to Rarity's to give her my gift to her”

“Sure thing Spike thank you” Twilight walk up to the shelf and use her magic to move the books off it and find a panel, with a pull with her magic it comes off to show a small box covered in dust, coughing a little she pulls it out and opens it. “Whoa...”

“Oh pretty but...” Pinkie Pie stared at it “There only half of it... where the other half?”

“Knowing Daring Do she has the other half on her” Twilight replied with a smile “It really making me feel giddy just thinking that I just helped Daring Do on one of her quests...”

“Ah will tell her that” he replied as she gave him the box and crystal “Thank ya miss”

“Not at all. So why was you looking for a new place of business?” Twilight dared to ask

Braeburn told the last part of the story he was given “Business is been slow and not doing well, ah was hoping that to set up shop here but since there a farming business already here ah not going to do so and moving back to ma and pa's farm after finishing up business with Miss Do”

“Wow that a shame, I would of came up to your shop and see what you had, well good luck either way” he nods to Twilight and leaves. “He such a gentlecolt”

“I know right?” Pinkie Pie giggled “Well I better be going and show him the rest of the town!”

“Alright Pinkie Pie see you later” Twilight close the door after Pinkie Pie left

Braeburn whispered to Daring Do through the ear piece “ah got the crystal in the library but also think ah know whom got the Stardust Crystal”

“Rarity right?”

Carousel Boutique...

Spike arrived at the Carousel Boutique with the box in hand to give to Rarity, he just hoped she like the strange crystal that he bought from White Rose from Canterlot, he opened it up looking how sparklingly it was, some unknown reason he felt no desire to even lick or eat it, he felt a strange aura coming from it when staring at it.

“Oh hi Spike I didn't hear you come in” Rarity spoke walking by him carrying a set of dresses she made to her shop floor for show and sell. “How was your trip to Canterlot with Rainbow Dash and Twilight?”

Spike smiled “It was fun but Rainbow Dash seem to be downed a lot but she sure cheered up on the last day since she met her fictional hero in real life”

“Fictional hero? What do you mean darling?”

“Daring Do of course, Twilight also met her” Spike replied.

Rarity gave her a raised eye “D-did you just say Daring Do?”

“Yep I sure did, awesome right? And get this she has a nephew too” Spike added to the list of amazing things

Rarity tapping her hoof on her snout “My that is something I didn't expect Spikey wikey... I wonder if I can get something made for them, something dashing, something adventuress” Rarity eyes lit up “IDEA!!!!!”

“Rarity wait!” he quickly yelled out

Rarity froze as she was about to charge up to her work room. “Yes darling?”

“I-I go-got you this from Canterlot” he raised the box to her. “I hope you like it”

Rarity took the box “Oh my stars you didn't have to Spike, it...” when she opened it her eyes was as large as dinner plates “Th-th-this...”

“Oh...” Spike saw her reaction and felt sadden “You don't like it do you?”

“WHAAAAT!!?!?” Spike covered his ears “Don't like!? I LOVE IT!” she took it out with her magic looking at the star shape crystal “My word is completely perfect in every way! I never seen anything more perfect then me...” she studying it and with all her wildest dreams she never expected to find a crystal such as this. “Spike this must of cost you a lot... I can't believe you would spend that much...”

“Well it didn't really since the unicorn that sold it couldn't really sell it because of where it came from you see...” Spike replied very nervously “She told me to tell you...”

“Oh?”

Spike gulped “Itcamefromsomeportalsixdaysgoandhitherandshetriedtosellitbybeingtruthfulandnevergottosellitand attheendshesolditrealcheapandIgotitforyou!” he said rapidly and then took a deep breath afterwards

Rarity look to it and back to him “Amazing. I can understand why the dear would have such a problem selling it with a plor like that but even so I still love it and very grateful for you getting you me this as a gift... it a crystal from the heavens my dear and for that I thank you with the bottom of my heart” she kissed him on the forehead “Now I got things to do and if you like... do you want to help?”

He was dreamy from the kiss he got and nods “Huh uh...”

“Then come along darling we got no time to waste, with such a perfect crystal star to inspire me! I got to make those outfits!” Rarity trots up stairs carrying her prized crystal and Spike floating after her in a dreamy state still.

White Rose...

White Rose pulling along her cart looking around Ponyville “I wonder where I could set up my business... there must be a market spot around here” she stops for a moment taking in the sights around her. “Let see, the station behind me, that sweet shop to the left and the library is to the right if I remember what the pony at the station said...”

After a few minutes she saw a yellow pegasus and her horn pulsed for a second “best to come to this one nice and easy, my horn telling me she most likely jump if I come too fast...” she walked up to the pegasus with supplies in her bag walking along. “Excuses me miss” she spoke in a soft tone. “I am sorry to trouble you but I am new in town and looking for the market square”

Fluttershy turn to the soft voice it was if this pony coming up to her knew how to approach her “Oh my... erm yes I do... are you a travelling sale pony?”

“That I am, I come from the Crystal Empire, the name is White Rose” she bowed a little to Fluttershy.

Fluttershy felt as if she was the one intimidating this unicorn “Oh please don't bow... I am nothing special... my name is Fluttershy I take care of the animals at my cottage”

“Pleasure to meet you Fluttershy, as for what I sell it a assortment of crystals including using my crafting magic to shape them” White Rose took some out of the cart opening it a little and fuse the white crystals into a crystal bunny and lower it down to Fluttershy

“Oh my that is beautiful... I never seen magic like that before, but your from the Crystal Empire then how come your a Unicorn, I thought all crystal ponies was Earth Ponies” Fluttershy put a hoof on her mouth “Oh my I am being rude...”

“Not all Fluttershy, I kind of expected that question and as I told everypony before I was born like this but I was treated no different to anypony else when I worked in the mines before King Sombra was defeated” White Rose replied. “We kind of getting off topic, where do I go from here?”

“Oh course, sorry” Fluttershy points a hoof “Down that way, you will see some stalls still out, hope that helps”

“It does and for your kindness for helping me out I return the favour by giving you this little crystal bunny” White Rose put it before Fluttershy.

“Oh I couldn't...”

“It fine I got plenty of crystals and with my finding crystal magic spell and teleport spell it doesn't take me long to get new ones” White Rose beamed in delight “Well see you around my friend and take care” White Rose hums to herself walking away pulling her cart to the market area.

Fluttershy waved a hoof “Bye White Rose and thank you!” White Rose waved a hoof back without looking back in reply. Fluttershy took the crystal putting it in her bag “Oh Angel bunny going to like this for sure!” she beamed and trots off back to the cottage.

Sunset, Train Station Ponyville...

Braeburn felt rather tired he spent almost the whole day with Pinkie Pie exploring almost everything in Ponyville, he did have a lot of fun and enjoyed the meals he had too, the sweets at Sugarcube Corner was amazing at most for him. “Well this is where we part ways Pinkie Pie, thank ya for the lovely tour”

“No problem” she looks around seeing no pony around that would suspect him “Braeburn” she beamed “I know you are so take off that silly disguise” she giggled

Braeburn looked dumbfounded “Ya knew all along?”

“Yep but your not our Braeburn for sure, your from the alternate world that Twilight went to once aren't you?” Pinkie Pie looking him in the eyes.

Braeburn sighed and took off all the suit, shirt, hoofshoes and moustache tossing them to the side keeping his saddle bag firmly on with the crystal he picked up for Daring Do “That is all true partner, ah'm Braeburn from the other world” he smirked “Ah never met anyone quite like y'all”

“Of course not Braeburn but don't worry about the crystal, Rarity will keep it safe and sound” Pinkie Pie beamed to him “Also you can say it”

“S-say what?”

“You know” she winked.

Braeburn looked around and screams it out “AAAAPPPLLLOOOOSSSSAAA!!!”

Electuroo back in the palace sleeping through out the day almost falls off the window hearing Braeburn scream it out through the tablet with Daring Do covering her ears and both screaming out “BRAEBURN!!!!”

He heard they yell through his ear piece but didn't care “Wooo weee that is sooo much better” he grinned “Thank ya for a lovely time Pinkie Pie and ah'm sure we find a way to get the crystal without causing any problems” he kissed her on the snout without thinking and pulled away “Ya be good Pinkie Pie and not say a word”

“Don't worry I Pinkie Promise. Cross my heart and hope to fly, put a cupcake in my eye” She said in a semi dreamy state wobbling around as he gave her a smile and a wave he step onto the train, it starts to leave almost as soon he got on. “Wow... so that a kiss...” Pinkie Pie said with a few giggles stumbling around as she leaves the station feeling very happy and giddy from that kiss she got from the alternate world Braeburn walking back to Sugarcube Corner...

Chapter 8: The Ticket Home

***A Black Rose by any Name...

Chapter 8: The Ticket Home...***

The train from Ponyville arrived at Canterlot as the moon now shined high above the evening sky, it was late and Braeburn just wanted to sleep now... he walked out of the train carriage and onwards to the palace, he was still confused how Pinkie Pie knew who he was the whole time and kept it under wraps. He didn't care much about that but what he felt for the pink pony right now, realising that his mind was drifting on that thought he shook his head

“Keep it together partner... ah can't be falling in love in a pony of people... ah'm who ah am... ah can't let that interfere for why ah'm here” he muttered to himself trotting through the street.

Black Rose saw him with a frown she peer around the corner “What the heck? I thought he was in the palace with the others...” she watched him disappear from view and stood in the open. “What are they up to? This wasn't part of my master plan... something up and I am going to find out what it is”

Crystal Town, Alternate Reality...

Sombra stood at the window of his office looking out to the moon lit sky, he felt limited and unable to do much but wait for the return of the three travellers but the one thing that gave him a real kick to the stomach was finding out that the rift gate or known as the Crystal Arch due to it damage and age it was a one way ticket...

He haven't seen Stardust in the last four days, he avoided her at every chance he had feeling that he was to blame for everything... “Why did I have to agree to send those three through for some crystal...” he sighed sitting down at the desk he pulled up some of the files he had to sign, reading through them he look to the window again. “Sometimes I wonder if I ever will do the right thing...”

A buzz comes from his device “Yes?”

“Sir there is a Stardust to see you, she refusing to leave till she spoken with you” the receptionist explained.

Sombra sighed heavily knowing that his avoidance had came to a end “Ok let her up” he push the button and spoke into it.

Soon the steps of someone could be heard and the door opens with the silver haired lady walking up to the desk “Sombra seriously, are you going to be a little kid over this?” she put her hands on the desk staring into his eyes.

Sombra put the papers down turning to the window “Stardust it my fault that they lost in that other world...”

“No Sombra it our fault” he turns to her in a gaze as she stood by the window now “Plus they with my sister so it should be safe for them and knowing her she already figured out a way to get home”

“Are you sure?”

“Is your name Sombra?” Stardust smirked

He chuckled a little “Point taken, never underestimate a sister of Stardust specially one with a record like Daring Do's before she became a actor” he took out a file and opened it showing her records “it seem she got almost into a lot of trouble six years ago, blowing up a ruins and using unauthorized explosives”

Stardust laughing at what she saw “That my sister for you” Stardust look to the full moon “What a lovely moon”

“Indeed it is and the only time three days in the month that the crystal heart shines too” he looked right at the spire with the shimmering light around it.

Stardust put her arm around his putting head against his “Sombra that was the work not only of mine but your's as well, remember that evening six years ago?”

“Indeed I do... the night under a full moon and we talked and talked and... talked, that night my heart was changed forever” he look to her eyes with a soft smile on his lips. “Care to get something to eat with me Stardust?”

“Are you buying?” she joked

“Nah I say we spilt it” he chuckled and they leave the office heading out to get a bite to eat, the receptionist watch them leave.

She pull out a phone from her draw and spoke into it “Crystal Shield you own me 20 bucks and a night out”

“Damn” only reply came and she smirked ending the call and putting it on the table going back to work on the computer.

Canterlot...

Braeburn arrived back in the room where Electuroo been staying for the last few times seeing Daring Do sitting at the table with Electuroo as he entered. They was going through some ideas on the scroll that Daring Do was mouth writing on and adding something to it. “Howdy”

“Hey Braeburn, how the heck did that Pinkie Pie pony find you out?” Electuroo spoke in a instant

He shrugged “my guess is good as y'alls partner, ah still trying to figure it out” he took the crystal out and put it on the table “Not sure why ya wanted me to pick this up and not the Stardust Crystal”

Daring Do look to it “Because the Stardust Crystal is in safe hands with the elements of harmony, Black Rose knows this and so do we” Daring Do said calmly to Braeburn “But I do hope Pinkie Pie can keep our secret under wraps though”

Braeburn smirked “She will, that weird promise she made seem to be some sort of promise locked up in a safe in a safe type of promise” Braeburn explained.

Electuroo just stared at him “That some promise that Pinkie Pie character made...”

“Tell me about it and ah think ah kissed her too...” Braeburn trying to recap on what he did blushing a little

Daring Do slap her hoof on her head “Braeburn seriously...” she pulled out the other half of the crystal from her bag “Any how since you kindly brought the other half to me I can finally see what this crystal is all about...”

Electuroo looked at it with some puzzlement “What exactly is it Auntie?”

“It has many names but the best one it known by is the Luna Crystal or Moon Shard, it was created in two pieces in both worlds in identical temples believe it or not... I visited both of them and took the crystal half from both, I hid the one in this world in Ponyville before it was really formed. There was group of ponies that was making it turn into a town they was the 'Smiths' and I stashed away in the newly formed tree building at Golden Oak, the crystal for protection.” Daring Do explained walking back and forwards with the two stallions listening to her speak.

“They was created by those that worshipped the Princess of the Night, not Nightmare Moon. The true Luna” Daring Do explaining to them unaware that Black Rose was on the otherside of the door and put her ear to the door and listen in. “On the day of the thirtieth moon both worlds one alined perfectly with each other to the belief of both temples, for three nights under the full moon both created the crystal that was absorb the irritating light of the full moon. They crafted and worked evening after evening and finally on the final night as the moon reached it peak the crystals was finished.” Daring Do told them about what she knew about the history of these two halfs.

“Both sides didn't know they was creating half a crystal, never knowing they was linked by a connection to the moon of both worlds, even the song they left behind was in two, I finished writing it up in full just now on that scroll, it amazing how two races believe in the same Princess of the Night and created a temple to see that the power of the gate can be opened at any time”

“Gate?” Electuroo frowned “You mean like a way home? Auntie?”

“Yes indeed nephew if this works... but it will take all three of us to sing the words to make this work” Daring Do explained “It sort of a lock between the two halves, to unlock it the song must be sung those that are not of this world...”

Braeburn went up to the window and closed it pulling the curtains too with his mouth then came back “Ready and able partner”

“Same here” Electuroo replied

“Another way home? Why haven't I heard of this... what are they up to?” Black Rose continued to listen in on them.

They all gathered around the table with the two pieces sitting before them. The paper showed the words they will have to speak and sing.

“Three days night

thirty moons light

Upon the moon

Two worlds meet

Shining Faith shining hope

Moon light Luna is one and two

*The two pieces started to float before their eyes as they sung with electrical energy pulsing between them*

Two and one the light shall shine

Upon the thirty moons

The Gate shall open

For three nights pass

The Crystal of two

Shall be one

Shall be two gates of one

Thirty ticks shall be pass

The gates will open

With a single touch

*The crystals start to close in on each other spinning around and moving into the centre as the three ponies doing little joint to the left and then to the right as they sung with smiles on their faces*

Moonlight Crystal

Luna Crystal

One is half

Half is One

Join together moonlight bliss

The key to two will join.

At the gates of two worlds shall open

From only thirty ticks and sealed once more

No more no less

The Crystal will skip the thirty Moons...

Moonlight Crystal

Luna Crystal

One is half

Half is One

Join together moonlight bliss

The key to two will join.”

As they finished the crystals fused together with a blinding light that they suddenly lost their smiles shielding themselves from the light a blast of wind knocks them over and blows the window out as well the door sending Black Rose crashing into the wall with the large door on top of her. “Ow...” she groans and hears the sound of galloping and quickly use her teleport spell to disappear just before they arrived.

Black Rose appeared beyond the wall breathing heavily staring at the smoke coming out of the window “What in my fathers name was that crystal...” she saw a shadow from the moon light and gasped seeing it was Luna “Damn” she hid quickly watching the Princess of the night fly into the smoked pouring window. “I might be able to use this to my advantage... just need to wait till the Princess leaves”

Luna lands in the thick of the smoke flagging her wings and using her magic to clear it to see a scene of destruction with Electuroo hanging from the lights with Braeburn lying against the wall dazed and Daring Do on the best with smash table, bedding and almost everything in side damaged to a degree. “DARING DO WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS!?”

Daring Do held her ears as they rung from the Canterlot voice was by Luna. “We was trying to fuse two pieces of the crystal together and well... it didn't go so...” she looked around at the damage to the room “I can pay for the damages caused...” she said sheepishly.

Luna sighed “You was experimenting on magical items and they exploded?”

“Pretty much sums it up... sorry Princess for the mess” She flew up to help her nephew out of the lights and on to the ground.

“Auntie can we never do something that crazy again...” He groaned shaking his head a little.

Braeburn recovering put his hat and jacket on “That was” he coughs “A bit strange, it was spinning then it glowed and wham that thing just exploded like a wild bull in a china shop”

The guards came in to see the damage “Princess are you alright?”

“Indeed we are, can't say the same for the room though” she looked around again. “Daring Do I will only tell you this once, do not try anything like this on the palace ground again or we will personally through you out”

“Completely understanding your highness” Daring Do bowed and the other two did too.

“Since no one was hurt I will let you all off with a warning.” Luna leaves with the guards “And I will make arrangements for another room to be let” she was gone with the guards.

Daring Do checked they was gone and pulled up her hat to show the crystal sitting on her head “Daring? Why did you hide the crystal?” Electuroo was confused by his aunts actions.

“Because Electuroo it our ticket home, all I have to do is find out where in the Crystal Empire is the gate way home touch this beauty on it and we all set and packed” Daring Do explained to him.

Braeburn look to the crystal that was newly created “How do we exactly find that part out?”

Daring Do shrugs “I haven't got a clue other then going to Ponyville directly... unless...”

“We get Pinkie Pie to tell us” Electuroo suggested

“My thoughts exactly” Daring Do replied

Braeburn crossed his hooves “How exactly do we do that then? Ah can't go since the others most likely realise whom ah am”

Electuroo got up “I will go right now”

“All trains are finished for the night” Braeburn look to him “How would ya get there?

Electuroo grinned with his wings opened “I'll fly, I manage a few flights already and sure I can manage a night flight there and I am wide awake”

“He been snoozing since you left” Daring Do said to the confused Earth Pony.

“Fair enough” Braeburn put his hoof out “Take care Electuroo”

“You too pal” they clapped hooves and Electuroo flies out the blown out window into the night

“As for us we should get some rest” Braeburn yawned when she said it, they leave the damaged room seeing some ponies pushing the doors back into place and others coming in to start repairs on the room.

Black Rose watched the pair leave and look to the damaged room as the repair teams enter but she notice something that they do not, picking it up from the rumble she saw what it was with a dark smirk on her snout “Oh this just too perfect... I can kill four birds with one stone and get the Stardust Crystal by tomorrow afternoon and everything else shall fall into place” she looks around and vanishes in a flash using her teleportation spell

Appearing at the coach she walked up to it “Alright boys, just as I promised here your payment up front, get me to Ponyville double time and if we get there before sun rise I will give you double as promised” the stallions attached to the coach nod to her in reply as she gets in and they all gallop pulling the coach down the dirt road out of the city and towards Ponyville. “Soon they will know a Black Rose by any other name isn't as sweet” she chuckled “Hope you enjoy your wake up call Daring Do because by morning you will have a lot of explaining to do and all I call it is sweet taste of revenge” she whispered looking out the coach to the city as it get more distance...

Chapter 9: Set in motion

A Black Rose by any Name...

Chapter 9: Set in Motion...

KABOOM!

Rainbow Dash awake to the loud noise in a instant sounding like a huge explosion from somewhere near by, she quickly looked out her window scanning around but didn't see anything, the sound was either a explosion or something breaking the sound barrier but she didn't see any signs of the two. “What the hay was that?” she darted out of her cloud house scanning around the land for anything as the sun was rising into the sky. “I better check with the girls to see if they saw what caused that sound...” she darts off into Ponyville.

Upon arriving she saw a black crystal pony selling crystals, upon landing she walked up to the cart “Hey your White Rose right?”

The unicorn raised her head from the cart as if she was hiding from something “Y-yes...” she quivered a little.

“Urm... ok... why are you hiding?” Rainbow Dash lowered her self to get a better look at her.

“Sor-sorry... that sound really scared me... I thought the sky was falling...” she slowly standing up. “I was... I am se-setting up shop when I heard a huge 'kaboom'...” White Rose looking around “I guess I over reacted...”

“Hehe yeah a little but I heard it too” Rainbow Dash noticed a crystal that was shimmering of different colours of the rainbow “Whoa what is this?”

White Rose smiled now “Oh that my latest creation, I decided to merge six different crystals and rubies together to create this, I call it the Spectrum Crystal” she beamed in delight “I love making things out of crystals, it fun creating new things”

Rainbow Dash picks it up looking around the crystal, it look like a egg with straight edges “How much?”

“11 bits”

“Seriously? Your not pulling my tail here?” Rainbow dash was amazed how cheap it was.

White Rose shook her head “No joke, I always sell my stuff for good value, I like to share my works, I even gave erm... what her name...” tapping a hoof she smiled “Oh yes Fluttershy, I gave her a bunny crystal for helping me to show where the market part of this town is, I been here for two days now and really enjoying my stay, but thinking about going home soon just to visit my friends and family”

“That the Crystal Empire right?”

“Sure is, I think I saw you there a few years ago” White Rose recalling that she saw the rainbow mane pony “You was jousting with Fluttershy I think...”

“Yep that was me” she chuckled “But I didn't recall seeing you there, that horn of yours is a dead give away for a Crystal Pony being odd you know”

White Rose touch her horn with her hoof “Yeah I hid it... that all I could do back then... King Sombra suppressed my magic with strange black crystals...”

“Same thing happened to Shining Armour, hey I got a question for you” Rainbow Dash had to know this.

“What would that be?”

“Are you sisters with a unicorn called Black Rose?”

White Rose nods “Y-yes... bu-but almost no pony knows...”

“Why?”

White Rose started to sob “I-I ca-can't... sp-speak of it... yo-you would thin-think of me as e-evil...” she turn away with tears falling.

Rainbow Dash step up to her “Hey stop sobbing like a foal and tell me, if you like pack your stuff up and we talk somewhere else”

“Y-you will lis-listen to me?” White Rose blinked a few times wiping the tears away but some still welling up.

“Sure, I never let any of my friends hanging and your one of them” she softly hits White Rose on the front leg.

White Rose smiled a little “Th-thank... you...”

Sweet Apple Acres later in the day...

Applejack bucked a few apples off the tree into the baskets, she smiled seeing how smoothly everything was going but she noticed white unicorn walking close by “Howdy stranger are ya lost?”

She smiled “Not really I was looking for you Applejack”

“Ya was?” Applejack looked a little confused by this “Who the hay are ya?”

“Oh I am sorry I forgot to tell you, my name is Black Rose” she step up to the apple farmer. “Pleasure to meet one of the element bearers”

Applejack tip her hat down a little “Aw shucks ah am one of them the element of honesty, hope ya not a fan, cause this is a farm not a hodown”

Black Rose shook her head “Of course not, I just heard what you did in the Crystal Empire helping to restore it even at the end the dragon got the crystal away from the king and to Cadance”

“Eeyup that true, but King Sombra had it coming, he was evil and twisted, he wanted to turn the crystal ponies into his slaves again” Applejack replied not looking at Black Rose as she said it.

Black Rose eyes flashed red with her black magic aura pulsing for a second but she gained her senses and smiled “Indeed” she trying not to sound anger “Now I came today to tell you of a threat to Equestria... I am not sure if you know anything but was there a strange pony here yesterday?”

“A threat to Equestria y'all say?” she hummed a little then nods “Eeyup ah remember a stallion that strongly looking like Braeburn come in with Pinkie Pie, he name was Rare Fruit”

Black Rose smirked seeing this was her chance “That not his name, in fact it is Braeburn but...”

“Ah knew it! That stupid disguise couldn't hide what ah knew my cousin...”

“Applejack he not from this world he from the alternate world” Black Rose said pulling out the scroll showing it to Applejack “I did some checking and from this account you and the others was there at some portal that Princess Twilight went through to get her element back”

“Eeyup that true so ya telling me he Braeburn but not our Braeburn?” she nods “Then what on tarnation is he doing in our world!?”

Black Rose put the scroll back into her bag with her magic “I believe they trying to get a crystal something that Spike brought back from Canterlot, that why he was scouting this place out, I bet my horn they after it”

Applejack frowned “Are ya trying to say this Braeburn is up to no good? Ah can't believe that...”

“Think about it, if he was from the other world why hide it? If he knew you was his cousin counter part? And why is Daring Do suddenly appearing in real life? Can't you see it something not right about them?” Black Rose pressed the issue.

Applejack walking with Black Rose to the barn “Ya make a good point, why would he lie...”

“It up to you, I gave a fair warning that something wrong here and it up to you to follow it up, I did what I could... I am a lone unicorn not something special” Black Rose turns to leave giving a sad look as if her warnings went unheard.

“Ok sugarcube ya made a good point, ah will press this with the other girls at once, thank ya for telling me this” Applejack leaves in a instant galloping to Ponyville.

Black Rose grinned darkly “Oh that was too easy, I used her own element against her, gave her the guilt trip and wham I got what I needed, now for the next phase...” with that she teleported away.

Ponyville...

Black Rose appeared before the market she walked up to it looking around and noticed the closed up cart that belonged to White Rose “Perfect” she pulled up a black crystal from her bag “Oh father I so love putting the blame on others, thank you for this lovely crystal it perfect for framing my sister” Black Rose place the crystal into the cart unaware of three little fillies watching her from a set of creates.

“What is she doing?” Sweetie Belle whispered to Scootaloo and Applebloom.

“Ah don't know but that crystal look really scary” Applebloom replied as they watch her put into the cart and close it back up looking around to see if anyone saw her do it.

Scootaloo recalled hearing about it from Rainbow Dash “I think I know what that is girls” Scootaloo said to them.

“You do?” Sweetie Belle turn to Scootaloo

“Shhh!” Applebloom quickly spoke and they went quiet as the white unicorn trot right by the boxes and looking around again.

Black Rose chuckled “Now phase two is in place, now all I have to do is wait for phase three from Canterlot and everything is set into motion for me to get my hands on that Stardust Crystal” she whispered and with a flash she was gone.

Scootaloo frowned “What are hands?”

“Beats me” Sweetie Belle shrugs

Applebloom push the create over as they approach the cart “What y'all think she was doing putting a funny looking crystal in that cart?”

“It not a funny looking crystal... it the one that appeared in the Crystal Empire when King Sombra appeared, Rainbow Dash was telling me all about it and I think that unicorn is trying to frame somepony” Scootaloo explained to the girls.

Sweetie Belle looked to her “Why would somepony want to frame a crystal unicorn pony for being evil?”

Applebloom shrugs “Not a clue, but should we tell somepony about this?”

“Yeah... as if they believe us...” Scootaloo rolled her eyes. Then thought of a idea “I know Rainbow Dash! She would listen!”

“Good idea let find her!” Sweetie Belle replied they all went over to the creates and got into the cart with Scootaloo on the scooter with a buzz they was gone sailing off towards Rainbow Dash's home.

At the Golden Oak Library, Pinkie Pie, Rarity and Flutteryshy arrives after getting word from Spike and Applejack about Braeburn, Pinkie Pie already knew it was him but she didn't get how they found out without her or Braeburn telling anypony about it. But she soon was going to get her answers when they arrived at the library and now before Twilight Sparkle as she was going to read a letter from Celestia about Daring Do and Braeburn...

“Alright sugercube tell us what ah was told by Black Rose” Applejack spoke with her suspicious about to be confirmed.

Twilight brought up the letter putting it before them “Hold where Rainbow Dash?”

“No idea darling, but please go on about the letter it really important and we can tell Rainbow Dash later on” Rarity said calmly to Twilight.

“Very well” Twilight sighed then spoke on “It seem what Black Rose said to Applejack is true, Princess Celestia found near the garden below the damaged room from last night a strange device that only could come from the other world, I know for a fact that I seen one of these devices before, it a touch screen device that humans used their hands on or some form of pen like item. As the letter goes on to explain seen as they try to confront them about this, Daring Do and Braeburn tried to make a run for it and was easily over come with Princess Luna's magic putting both into a dream sleep state for a short time and since then been held for more questioning and believe that Electuroo is on route to here for a form of crystal that Braeburn was scouting out for” Twilight explained to them fully about the details she got addressed by Princess Celestia.

Rarity gasped “You don't think that the crystal I got from Spike is it?”

“Indeed and might be on the way to steal it... the facts seem to point to that and Black Rose seem to be telling the truth” Twilight seem to be doubting what Daring Do said about her now and what Black Rose said to Daring Do at the library thinking it was more of a rival between them.

“How in tarnation did they get here then? Then mirror is still sealed till another 20 or less moons...” Applejack spoke in turn.

Fluttershy didn't seem to think it added up “Twilight don't you think it strange that Black Rose would appear and announce this at the same time as this happens in Canterlot?”

Pinkie Pie also found it weird “I was with Braeburn all yesterday, I knew who he was from the get go, but I am sure he would never scout out to steal the crystal that just not like him”

Applejack was staring at Pinkie Pie “Ya need to remember Pinkie Pie, he from the other world, he not mah cousin”

“He so is your cousin but from the other world, a human but he still got that saying of Appaloosa, you should of heard him last night, really let it out” she giggled “And he said that he will get the crystal without any problems and I told him that Rarity would keep it safe cause I knew they would be searching a way home first” Pinkie Pie explained to them.

Applejack blinked “Ya know what Pinkie that made sense... not sure how but it made perfect sense... he didn't want no pony to know he was from the other world, then ya being all happy with knowing whom he was and where and to put things into one final hoop y'all right the crystal would be safe with Rarity”

Twilight was now confused “Bu-but why would...” then it hit her “Black Rose... she the one that after the crystal! It make perfect sense, we all here talking about it and the crystal would be still at...”

“Uh oh...” Spike gulped all turning to the direction of the Rarity's home, shop and business.

“NO PONY STEALS FROM ME!!!” Rarity burst out of the door charging right for her home with the others running after her.

Black Rose at this time step out of Carousel Boutique with the prize in hoof when she saw them “I see you all caught on well let me say this, your too late... so either stop me now or help save your pony friends in Ponyville, your choose” Her horn glows and suddenly a huge explosion rips through from the market area. “I was going to frame my deal sweet sister but since you all are way too clever I had to have a fall back plan”

The five ponies and Spike stood before her with the sound of another explosion turning to the sight of the blaze that they could see. “You see I had a black crystal from my dear old father the one that stupid dragon took from me!” She sneered at Spike “And you elements... and the princesses... I will have my sweet revenge on all of you and restore my father but for now... you got a choice stop me or help those that need you right now... tick tock Twilight” she grinned darkly

Twilight heard that line before but this time this villain had her over a barrier she did what Sunset Shimmer would never do and that was going out of the way to cause pain to others to make sure she got away and she didn't care about the elements she got what she wanted the Stardust Crystal. “Girls come on we got to help the ponies!” Twilight had no choice but to go with her better judgement on this.

“Gah you roughin! I will get you for stealing something that is mine!” Rarity sneered and charge off after Twilight with the others in tow.

Black Rose chuckled “Oh I think you got more problems to deal with then I...” she turns and walks off to the Everfree Forest with her prize in the bag knowing she had won since she set up more then one problem for them to work around giving her time to figure out how to unleash the power the Stardust Crystal...

Twilight gasped at the sight before her and her friends “Oh no this isn't good! Not at all!” the fire from the cart was burning out of control through two buildings. “Girls we got to get everypony to put that fire out before it spreads!”

“Got it Twi!” Applejack replied and another explosion from the cart that was already almost nothing left of erupted causing them to take cover from the blast “First things first we need to contain that fire first! It the thing that causing all this!”

“I got to agree but how do we get close enough to it to contain it! That thing a inferno!” Twilight yelled feeling the heat from the flames

“Don't worry I got this!” Rainbow Dash flew in out of no where with a large cloud with two other pegasi and they hit the cloud with all they got unleashing a waterfall of water all over the area “Now girls get those ponies to safety!” Rainbow Dash called giving them the chance to rush over and pull the injured ponies away from the flames as the pegasi help to contain the flames.

Rarity pulled Lyra out from under a wheel with help from Spike as they got clear from the flames, the mint coloured pony was out cold and so was Bon Bon as Twilight using her magic pulls her to safety.

After a short while the flames was put out and the injured in the total of seventeen ponies was taken to hospital but the damage from what Black Rose did was clearly seen, four houses razed to the ground, four market carts almost destroyed with many trees burned to the point that they was almost black as ink smelling of charcoal.

“Great work everypony we did it...” Twilight sighed in relief “Rainbow where were you?”

Rainbow Dash landed “Sorry that I wasn't here sooner I was by the lake with White Rose talking to her... oh no!” she turn and saw White Rose staring at horror at the damage around and at what was her livelihood.

She trot over to the pile of ash and small remains of the wheel... the explosion had destroyed all the crystals all but one... “M-my c-c-c-art... my...” she sat there holding the crystal egg shape in her hooves seeing what was left. “w-why...” she stuttering with shock and overwhelming grief seeing everything she made, everything she found in her life completely gone. “Bl-Bla-Black Ro-Ros... wh-why...”

Rainbow Dash came up to her and hugged her as she burst into tears hugging Rainbow Dash back with sorrow coming from her heart as she cried. “There there... let it all out...” Rainbow Dash said softly and turn to Twilight “Who the hay did this!?”

“Black Rose...” Twilight whispered

“I knew she was a bad apple but target her own sisters livelihood to get something she wants! Come on that is lower then low! How can she did that to her own twin!” Rainbow Dash was really anger but she still kept embraced with the crystal unicorn that continued to cry.

“TWIN!?” all said at once with shock.

Rainbow Dash sighed “Girls let take her into the library and get her to rest... she been through enough already...”

“Alright lets go” Twilight looked to the damage around knowing there nothing else they could do now with the damage so massive, it would take weeks to restore the market as well the homes that was razed, but the damage to the houses or carts was that mattered it was the memoires, the items, everything that made the ponies home special was gone because of Black Rose...

Inside the Library Fluttershy helped Rainbow Dash settle White Rose into bed as the sun started to set, the really shattered unicorn still be sobbing since they left and had finally cried herself to sleep even with all the reinsurements from Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash. It didn't ease the pain for the black mare...

“Darling how is she?” Rarity asked seeing the two pegasi rejoined them.

“Not so swell... she really shattered more ways then one... she not even sparklingly anymore...” Rainbow Dash replied feeling really concerned for her new friend.

Spike rubbing his claw hands together “I would be too if my own family turned on me like that and would even go as far to harm me to get what they wanted...”

“Exactly why she like that at the moment... ah would never do such a thing to Applebloom, Granny Smith or Big Macintosh” Applejack replied feeling rather anger with Black Rose “And she played me for a fool! DAMNIT!” she slam her hoof against the ground with anger. “She used my own element against me...”

“She fooled everypony...” Fluttershy felt rather sorry for White Rose “But worst of all she could of seriously harmed White Rose... but why?”

They all turn to Rainbow Dash “I got a feeling Rainbow Dash know why...”

“Yeah Dashie what is it you know we don't?” Pinkie spoke up

Rainbow Dash sighed “Alright I will let you all know... it...”

“RAINBOW DASH!!!!!!!!” they all turn to the door hearing Scootaloo screaming out with all her might. “WE GOT A BIG PROBLEM!!!!!”

Rainbow Dash groaned “I better go deal with...” Rainbow Dash open the door with wide eyes seeing Scootaloo with Sweetie Belle and Applebloom with the trolley attached to the scooter and what was on it made her gasp “Electuroo!!”

Chapter 10: Cross World Differences

A Black Rose by any Name...

Chapter 10: Cross world differences...

“Electuroo!!” Rainbow Dash gasped in horror she saw a injured yellow pegasi out cold with bruising all over the place with the jacket completely ripped to shreds with it barely hanging onto his body, he had a broken right hide leg that she clearly saw with red swelling. “What to do! What to do! What to do!” Rainbow Dash was darting around at this point and quickly got hold of the stallion and was gone in a blur right to the hospital before anypony could say a word.

Scootaloo was amazed how fast Rainbow Dash just dashed off like that but couldn't blame her after when she and the girls found the stallion close to Rainbow Dash's home in the state that Rainbow Dash saw him. “Girls what happened to him?” Twilight asked seeing how fast Rainbow Dash reacted.

“Ah don't know Twi we was looking for Rainbow Dash after we saw that weird white unicorn with the black mane put a scary black crystal into White Rose's cart then she spoke about something to do with hands and a crystal then vanished” Applebloom explained

“Yeah and then we found that stallion all banged up by the fields close to Rainbow Dash's home, we would of missed him if it wasn't for Sweetie Belle” Scootaloo turn to her unicorn friend.

“Is this true Sweetie Belle?” Rarity look down at her sister.

Sweetie Belle nods nervously “Ye-yes Rarity... we was racing to Rainbow Dash's when I saw his cream and black tail sticking out the bushes, first I thought it was nothing then I saw it twitch like when yours does when your in a bit of pain”

“Then we stopped and found him head against a rock with these weird looking black pedals around him with all those bruises and that broken leg, so we raced back here to Twi” Applebloom added.

“Look like we did the right thing cause Rainbow Dash was here...” Scootaloo turn with some concern “I never seen Rainbow Dash flip out like that...”

Pinkie Pie turn to the hospital “I think it because we almost blamed him for something he did not do, he only here because of Black Rose... if it wasn't for that meanie nothing like this would be happening right now...”

“Pinkie are you ok?” Fluttershy was a bit unsure with the way Pinkie just spoke

Pinkie Pie nods “Yeah I am... just think that my Pinkie Promise was to save us all this trouble and keep Breaburn and the others out of trouble... instead I made a bit bundle of trouble...”

“Pinkie Pie you didn't Black Rose did, she used your own Pinkie Promise against you” Twilight said to her “In fact she used all of us to get what she wanted now I think about it...” Twilight started summing it all up. “First we met she seemed off but I didn't do anything because she kept into legal side of things and I ignored my gut... then we started thinking that White Rose was something evil... third was the news about them from the alternate world and Black Rose telling Applejack, fourth is Rainbow Dash is talking to White Rose about something we not sure of and Fluttershy making friends with her too, then we think Electuroo coming to steal the crystal because of this letter and finally she used our own strengths against us... either help those that need it or stop her there and then... if we stopped her there could have been many ponies that would of never... you get what I mean...”

Scootaloo rubbed her head “I don't get it, are you telling me that Black Rose played you all for fools?”

They all nod “And yet we first saw her and felt something really bad about her, we never came to y'all cause ya never would believe us” Applebloom grumbled

“Yeah we could of stopped this from happening if our own sisters listen to us some times!” Sweetie Belle added.

The five mares look to each other and hung their heads down they knew the Cutie Mark Crusaders was right and had been put down by the fillies. Spike sighed “She used all your good natures against you, she doesn't care about that, all she cared about is getting what she wanted at any cost, are you like that?” they shook their heads “Then be as you all are already and step up to it... so she got the crystal at least everypony still alive right? And if it wasn't for the Cutie Mark Crusaders Electuroo would have been in worse shape”

“You know what Spike your right” Twilight smiled giving him a hug and turn to the three fillies “You three did specially well, if it wasn't for our minor mistrust you would of never found Electuroo and he could have been still out cold back in that bush you found him”

They three girls look to each other with happiness “We did didn't we?” Applebloom beamed in delight.

“We saved somepony and we got praised!!!” Sweetie Belle jumping around with joy.

“And Rainbow Dash knows we did! How awesome is that!?” Scootaloo flapping her wings rapidly with excitement.

“Hold ya horses girls, we have to check if Electuroo be alright first before we celebrate but since ya all did a good deed ah believe we all should award ya all a trip to the Crystal Empire next time around, what ya say?” Applejack turn to her friends

“I completely agree with that darling” Rarity smiled “Best award for my little sister Sweetie Belle”

“That sounds like a nice idea Applejack” Fluttershy also agreed.

Pinkie Pie giggled “Yepiroin! It a great idea! We can have fun playing with the horn and parties and all sort of crazy things!”

Twilight turn to the three fillies “How does that sound?”

“YES!” they all cheered in delight

Twilight open her wings a little and closed them “I am going to fly over to the hospital to see if everything alright, why don't we talk about what Rainbow Dash got to say in the morning?”

“I completely agree darling, it best if I get Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo home” Rarity replied. “And tell Scootaloo's parents of the good deed she did, they will be over the moon”

“You think so?” Rarity nods “That awesome!”

“Ah better get Applebloom home as well, it been a long day for them and what happened need some time to settle in...” Applejack turn to Applebloom “Come on girl time to go home”

“Ok Applejack” she turn to her friend “See y'all tomorrow”

“Yeah same to you Applebloom” Scootaloo replied pushing her scooter along with Sweetie Belle as they leave with Rarity.

Fluttershy turn to the library “I will stay with Spike to keep a eye on White Rose, she in no condition to be left alone”

“Alright sugarcube good night”

Pinkie Pie bouncing around grinned in delight “I got a party to set up for Electuroo when he recovers! A get well and welcome party!” she giggled and bounces away.

“Right...” Spike rubbed his head turning to Fluttershy “I will cook up something for us to eat”

“Ok Spike, thank you”

Ponyville Hospital...

Electuroo heard the sound of beeping he felt rather sore and couldn't remember what exactly happened, he recalled something hitting him then black flower pedals flying around him... “Urg...” he groans opening his eyes feeling as if he had fell from ten floors up from a building into a flower bed.

He yelped in pain as a string of roar pain shot through him from his right hide leg “Yoew...” he eyes shot open cringing in pain “Wh-what...” he looking around with panic.

“Whoa whoa whoa cool it will ya” he turn to see Rainbow Dash holding him down. “Your in no condition to move around like that, specially with that banged up leg of yours”

Electuroo saw the bandaged up right hind leg being supported on a rest support hanging from the ceiling. “Wh-what happened... how did I get here?” he looking at her with confusion. “How did my leg in that state?”

“You don't really know do ya?” Rainbow Dash sighed “Black Rose did it to ya pal, she did something to do and kind of crashed in a bad way” she turn to his hide leg “Luckily it was the only thing that was serious about you”

Twilight whom was also in the room spoke in “It would have been worse if it wasn't for his excellent fitness too” Twilight turn to Electuroo “So how do you feel?”

Electuroo felt a bit of pain shot through him again “A bit painful with the leg and all but other then that I feel fine... just hate the fact it took being in...” he paused realising what he was about to say “Nevermind...”

“Equestria right?”

Electuroo gave Rainbow Dash a questionable look “What is that suppose to mean?”

“We know your from the alternate world Electuroo. Black Rose used that as her trump card to get us all thinking you, Daring Do and Braeburn was the bad ponies but infact she was, she got the Stardust Crystal too and disappeared...” Twilight felt a little let down by the fact Black Rose escaped “Make things worse her twin sister White Rose is devastated and gone deep into depression...”

“Yeah that twisted unicorn trashed her cart and everything in it... only to get that crystal... what so special about it any way?” Rainbow Dash turn to Electuroo on this one.

He shrugged “I haven't got a clue, I only know it over 6000 years old and been in the family for over 160 generations as you already know... other then that I can't tell you a damn thing about it” Electuroo sighed heavily “But if she wanted it so badly there a reason behind it and my aunt knows that far too well since she stole all sort of crystals with little or no real value from all over the place to just open that blasted gate way up...”

“So that how you got here from the alternate world, another portal... but where is that one located?” Twilight eager to know.

Electuroo look to her “The Crystal Empire Ruins up the valley mountains close to Crystal Town where I live”

“C-Crystal Empire Ruins?” she was shocked to hear this. “Your telling me that there another Crystal Empire or was one in the alternate world where the humans live?”

“Sure was, it was trashed by all sorts of crazy things that only myth and legends to go by, no one really knows how it was destroyed or what exactly happened in the valley 1000 years ago.” Electuroo continued to tell them. “It more or less a tourist attraction nower days, Mayor Sombra was the one...”

“MAYOR SOMBRA!?” both of them said together yelling in shock.

“There a Sombra in your universe!?” Rainbow Dash was almost in his face.

“Ye-yeah... he the mayor Crystal Town been it since the founding of the town eight years ago, he the ex-CEO of Crystal and Co miner Corp. He use to be wealthy, powerful, greedy, a tyrant that didn't care he destroyed the natural landscape to get the crystals that was buried. But when he was going to tear down the ruins six years ago everything from that day forward changed”

“I bet he found true love and saw the errors of his ways” Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. “Unlikely...”

Electuroo chuckled “He did”

“Say what!?”

“That love was my mother” silence in the room instantly fell.

Twilight broke it after a few moments had past to let this sink in “Let me get this straight... a CEO is like a King, somepony that really powerful but then he gave it all up and put all his wealth into a town and ruins because he fell in love with your mother?”

“Pretty much sums it up, my mum name is infact is Stardust, same name to the crystal and I like the guy personally so does my sister and pretty much the whole town, he also funded the Crystal Heart Project that took four years to make” Electuroo explained. “And my mum was the lead person for it too with four others to craft and make the heart while the spire was being constructed”

Twilight was trying to get her head over this. “Your telling me that he personally help create a Crystal Heart!? A CRYSTAL HEART!?”

“Yeah the proof on my aunt's tablet, the whole video of the news coverage is on there.” Electuroo explained to them. “It not magical or anything it has two massive magnets built into it and held as if floating by another two large electro magnets with another causing it to spin and every sunset and sunrise you get this one amazing shimmering colour of aurora in the sky” Electuroo said recalling it from memory. “The crystal is more like a symbol to the hearts of everyone in town that live and work there. A reminder that together they can create something wondrous”

Rainbow Dash waved her hoof “Yeah right, you got to show me to make me believe, there no way I will believe any kind of pony or human that is Sombra could change their ways”

“Tell that to Principle Shining Armour and see how far you get”

“WHAT!?” Twilight was now right against his face “My brother in the alternate world is a Principle!?”

“Yeah and his wife is the vice-principle”

Rainbow Dash was laughing hard now “Oh my gosh this is soooooo funny Shining Armour a teacher!? Hahahahaha!”

“I don't see what funny about it... he also the school soccer coach and been giving me and Braeburn lessons for the last year or so now, he a really amazing guy, charming, funny and always have a ear out to listen to our own problems, in fact in my bag over there is his camera, he wanted me to take many pictures of this world as I could” Electuroo explained. “I think there still some of his old photos on there from the New Year Eve party”

Twilight quickly went to his bag and pulled out the camera looking at it while held up by her magic she studied it “How do I exactly do I get the pictures out?”

“They on the screen, push the button on the top that has a circle with a line through it then push the button that has a picture symbol by it after the camera turns on” Electuroo explained and she did so the first image that came up was one of Princess Celestia raising the Sun with Luna by her.

“Wow this is amazing, the photo is displaying on the screen like on that computer thing back when I was at Canterlot High!” Twilight turn to Rainbow Dash and showed her “How amazing is that, a picture of the princesses raising the sun and setting the moon!”

Rainbow Dash was amazed “Wow that is awesome, this technology from their world is impressive”

“Now push the arrow to the right it will take you to the first photo” Electuroo said seeing the image from where he laid unable to move dull to his busted leg.

Twilight choose to move up to the bed with Rainbow Dash flying over them to look at the images displayed and the next one to come up gave them both a shock right there in colour was the human version of Cadance in a blue sparkling dress with Shining Armour wearing a white suit and trousers with blue shoes and a small badge on the jacket of the cutie mark Twilight knew all too well with their arms around each other with the glass they each held put towards each other with them looking to the camera showing a smile.

The next image was of Cadance standing by a balcony looking out to the night sky with street lamps lit up with the scene of some cars and some big buildings in view too with the sight of the mountain and valley wall with the hint in the background of the ruins just able to be seen with the full moon.

The next image they notice was the human Twilight wearing a purple dress wearing slippers of the same colour, also with her was Shining Armour by her to the left and to the right Cadance all giving a peace sign to the camera with smiles on their faces. The next showed what they could easily tell was Sombra and with cake all over his face with Shining Armour hitting him with it making the two girls laugh the next image showed Sombra getting his own payback by doing the same and the next of them both arms over each other laughing with a lady with long silver hair to the left of them with a hand on her forehead looking at them as to say 'and I thought they suppose to be adults' type a look.

The next image was of Sombra with the lady whom was wearing a silver suit and trousers with her showing her finger a gold ring on it with Electuroo smiling seeing that she didn't care about the state Sombra was in but happy they was enjoying the evening “That was the same time he proposed to mum”

“Wow these images are awesome! We getting to see their world without even going there!” Rainbow Dash beamed and saw the next one that made her cry out in laughter and fall to the ground.

Twilight gasped at what she saw, it was of her human counterpart getting soaked with a bucket of water from Shining Armour and Cadance with the reaction from her being priceless “That is not funny Rainbow” she saw Electuroo laughing too “You two...”

“Oh come on Twi, wouldn't it be something that Shining would pull on ya anyway?” Rainbow Dash still laughing a little at the image.

Twilight thought about it “Yeah thinking about it he did pour water over me a few years back before I came to Ponyville at a party and Cadance was there too and my family...” she thought about it “Ok you got me it is funny” she smirked then turn to Electuroo “Why are you not in any of these photos?”

“I wasn't there...” he replied “I was at Sweet Appaloosa Orchard at the family reuion slash new year party. It was a lot more fun then going to some priced party like that... it had far too many people that had their hands in their pockets in otherwords wealthy... So I took the invite from my pal Braeburn and went to the Apple's New Year Party and that was a real lot of fun too. In fact that when I first met Applejack his cousin from the Canterlot City, she got one heck of a lasso throw though and got some real strength to boot too... I tried arm wrestling with her and wow talk about losing in ten second flat...” he recalled how painful he arm was too from it, he tried all his might to win but she simply was the stronger hand on that game.

“That definitely sounds like Applejack and funny how you got to meet her too Electuroo, any of the others you met?” Twilight asked.

“Well I only met Rainbow Dash's counterpart once, well bumped into and said three words exactly 'sorry about that' and her reply was 'hey no prob it was my fault' and we walked on by each other and into the crowds, the next time I found out her name was from the soccer game that I missed out on case of the flu and heard Canterlot High's Wondercolts trashed Crystalbolts 8 to 2 with six of the goals scored by Rainbow Dash the team captain” Electuroo explained about Rainbow Dash in his world. “And Braeburn told me if I was there it could have been a different story and the game could have been pretty even since everyone hated to admit that I was the best in the team, not fault I had to come down with the flu...”

Rainbow Dash was still looking at the images seeing the photo of the Crystal Heart was amazing she saw how the spire was shaped to create affect of light that made it magical. “Well that hard to be said Electuroo, but if Braeburn says that then I can't fault him but when you say flu do you mean like the feather flu?”

“Well it a common illness that could be serious if not treated but I was bed ridded for a few weeks and got to say that was the longest two weeks ever... I still had the Daring Do movies that my aunt gave me to watch and my video games but still sucked to be stuck in my room for almost all day and night...” Electuroo said and look to his leg “Like I am now... this is most likely going to take a few weeks at least...”

Twilight giggled “Your just as bad as Rainbow Dash, it not going to be weeks, months or years, it only going to be three days”

“Say what!?” Electuroo was shocked by this “That impossible! I know some things about healing processes and a broken leg takes weeks or even months! Not three days to mend!”

“Maybe in the alternate world but not here, you be able to walk on it again in a few days time” Twilight pulled up a set of books to him “And you can read these”

“Daring Do books? Hmm I did seem them at the Canterlot Library but didn't really bother to pick them up... maybe I can read one or two of them to pass the time I guess” Electuroo look to his damaged leg “Still can't believe how amazing your medical treatments are though... I am sure some doctors back home would kill to get a hold of this treatment”

Rainbow Dash chuckled “I bet they would but it all magical modern med stuff, it most likely can't be used back in the other world”

“True” Electuroo turn to them “So how the pictures?”

“I got to say Crystal Town is sure strange looking but our worlds are alternate but I did find one of you and Braeburn though, it was at one of those soccer patiences with Shining Armour training you two” Twilight brought the camera to him seeing the image “I am amazed by these images though, it a shame we don't have anything like that even close here in Equestria”

Electuroo shrugged “Everything has a balance Twilight, like this world got so much magic, myth and legends that are all real and I love it! My mind been opened to so many amazing possibilities and I love the fact I can fly with these wings! Last night was one of the most awesome things ever and I enjoyed it a bit too much, I almost lost control and did something really weird before I got knocked out by whatever Black Rose did to me”

“Oh what was that hot shot?” Rainbow Dash teased

“I hit a tree and in a almost impossible instant I bounced off it at thundering speeds and then hit another tree and bounced off that and hit a cloud, the next thing I knew I was standing on another cloud with sparks flying all over the place, it was really weird... it was almost I was thunder bouncing or something...” Electuroo trying to get his head around it “This pegasi internal magic is really weird... I don't understand how it exactly works or how but it just baffles me when I stood on that cloud as if it was ground itself...”

“Thunder Bounce? That pretty neat, when you get all healed I would love to see that in action and for the walking on clouds it as you sat a internal pegasi magic, that in all pegasi” Rainbow Dash beamed with pride. “Oh yeah I forgot!” she turn to the door seeing three fillies that just showed up “Electuroo I like you to meet the three girls that saved your rump”

Electuroo peered over to the door best he could with the limit of movement he had and saw them step through the door with a huge poster with the words 'Get well soon Electuroo' inside a lightning bolt outline with stars, hoof prints and glitter all over it. “Hey there Electuroo name Scootaloo!”

“Mine Applebloom”

“And I am Sweetie Belle”

“We made you this get well card!” they all beamed together

Electuroo had tears rolling down his face seeing what they made for him he was happy and felt really joyful as well “Thank you girls... no one been that thoughtful to me ever... part from Braeburn and my family... you all I own big time... if it wasn't for you I have no idea what condition I be in right now...”

“Your welcome Electuroo!” Sweetie Belle came up to him “Could we sign your cast too?”

“My cast?” he look to the cast over his hind leg down to his hoof “Sure why not, just don't press too hard I kind of sensitive to pain...”

“CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS CAST SIGNERS!” they all cheered

Redheart came in “Quiet there are others trying to rest!”

“Sorry” they all said together looking sad

“It quite alright” she pat them on the head and left.

Electuroo was puzzled by the name they called themselves “Cutie Mark Crusaders huh? I guess it about those marks on each of everyone's hind quarters I seen and on mine... never really understood what they meant though”

“You don't but how can you not know about it?” Scootaloo said while Applebloom finish writing her little message on the cast.

Scootaloo went next and Applebloom look to him “Ah guess ya wouldn't know since ya from the alternate world right? Did ya met mah counterpart?”

“Sure did, her and her friends out to try making themselves known and create some crazy music vids” Electuroo replied “Kind of like you girls trying to get these Cutie Marks of yours”

“Wow that sounds awesome but about the cutie marks, that a sign of your talents, guessing yours it something to do with flying like Rainbow Dash since she the most awesome pegasi around!” Scootaloo beamed while Sweetie Belle did message.

Electuroo rubbed his head a little “Guess I kind of figuring that with the few flights I had, it kind of felt that it was my purpose to fly... very weird to say that but it felt... I don't know just well... right”

“Oh course Electuroo your in our world and a Pegasus pony, it natural to feel like that, don't beat around the bush about it just let it go and enjoy it!” Rainbow Dash hit him lightly with her hoof on his front leg.

“And this been one of the most enjoyable times to speak about things... common and different, it feels wonderful to final have more friends to talk to... and not get picked on cause I even talk too much or do things without thinking...” he paused “Talking about friends... what going to happen about Braeburn and my aunt?”

“Oh that it been sorted, in fact they on the way here to Ponyville, I also talked to Applejack and it seem she be willing to let Braeburn stay on the farm if he pull his weight around to help out of course and for Daring Do I am not sure where she be staying though” Twilight thought about it and Rainbow Dash spoke up

She put a hoof to her chest “My place of course, that great and amazing Daring Do can crash at my place”

Electuroo put a hoof to hers making her look at his and then to him “Just don't go all fan giddy over her... my aunt might not sure it but she is really stressed not only by all this but being a actor, trust me I seen it”

“What!? Your aunt is Daring Do!?” they all turn to Scootaloo “Seriously your not joking!”

“I am not, she is my... oh no...” he just realised seeing how huge her eyes was.

“Oh my gosh was saved Daring Do's nephew!” Scootaloo bouncing around with delight “I want to meet her and tell her what we all did!”

“I am sure you can” Twilight said and turn to Electuroo “Right?”

Electuroo sighed with a hoof to his head “Yeah I guess but just don't go overboard or boost, just keep it to the truth and you do fine... and as I was saying when you have a director like Blueblood she really need to have some R and R for a change...”

“Wait did you just say Blueblood?” Twilight look at him with wide eyes and he nods “Wow... so he a film director... I thought he more a snob. I guess some things does work differently between our worlds”

Electuroo shook his head “he is a snob...” he chuckled “but also a film director since he has eyes for detail and been director of the Daring Do films from the get go, but sometimes he a bit of a critic even in the art of movies... my aunt had to do one scene eighty times over just to get one part just right for the rest of the movie to flow and she was at her wits end with him one point and ready to smash the set over his head”

The fillies giggled as he said that “I promise not to bug her too much about it, she still awesome but I can understand why you want her to relax a little, everypony need that once in a while, right Twi?”

“Sure do Rainbow Dash” Twilight replied and Redheart re-enters.

“Sorry but visiting hours are over, you all can come back tomorrow” Redheart said to them with a kind gentle voice.

Rainbow Dash quickly took the quill and wrote on his cast and put it down on the table, while Twilight turn the camera off and put it back into the saddlebag. “Well see ya Electuroo, be back tomorrow with your aunt and Braeburn!”

“That be cool, and girls thank you for that awesome get well card”

“Your welcomed!” they all said together giving him a hug and he returned it, they all let go and dash off out of the room.

Twilight looked outside “Better get to Sugarcube Corner Rainbow Dash, you know how Pinkie Pie is when we late”

“Let me guess a party for my aunt and Braeburn?” Electuroo spoke making them look at each other then back at him.

“How did you know?”

“After what Braeburn told me of her and what I heard, I only had to put them together to get my answer” he replied with a smile “And knowing my luck by the time I am healed up she have one ready for me too”

“Most likely” Rainbow Dash chuckled and they left waving goodbye to him, Redheart closes the door behind her as she the last to leave.

Electuroo look to his left seeing a pony head to hoof in cast “What the heck happened to you?” Electuroo gasped at the sight of him. “Let me guess, I don't want to know” a few blinks and muffles was the reply all he needed and with a shudder Electuroo felt sorry for his room mate... he took the book and opened it “Daring Do and the Quest for the Sapphire Stone? Do you mind if I read this out loud?” the pony move his eye from to the left then to the right “So it ok?” a blink “Ok thanks, just wanted to respectful to my fellow room mate” if he could of guested a smile would of show and he turn the page to start reading the story.

Chapter 11: A interesting Visit to Crystal Town

A Black Rose by any Name...

Chapter 11: A interesting Visit to Crystal Town

The motorway full of cars, lorries and buses going on their travels to different parts of the country with the roaring of all vehicles on the six lanes of road, a people carrier drives down the slip lane and turn at the roundabout down a countryside road to Crystal Town with a sign saying 32 miles, the road lead through a thick forest with deers, rabbits and other forms of wild life watching as cars and other moods of transport go through this dense forest to the valley clearing that the town sat in.

Inside the people carrier driving it was Flash Sentry and in the passenger seat was Rainbow Dash with her fellow friends in the back seats including Sunset Shimmer all finding the journey to be a great time to talk about what they gong to do, what they done and such.

“Flash have you ever been to Crystal Town?” Rainbow Dash turn to him as he drove.

Flash keeping a eye on the road replied “A few times, one for that awesome game you played in and won for Canterlot High and the other was for the opening festival for the Crystal Heart, going for a plan visit for a few days, not really”

“Same here, I am hoping to see if I can find this one guy called Electuroo, I heard he was down with the flu when our game happened and that our match would have been tougher if he was playing” Rainbow Dash put her hands behind her head thinking about it. “It would have been awesome playing par against someone that is awesome as me”

“And I bet you would love to challenge him to a one on one to settle the rumours?” Flash turn his eyes for a second to Dash and back to the road.

Rainbow Dash chuckled “Sure would, it most likely be a blast too”

Applejack spoke in turn “Well ah am thinking about going to see my cousin Braeburn at the Orchard, he might be a bit of a loud mouth at times but his still my cous”

“Isn't he friends with this Electuroo fellow darling?” Rarity recalling the name she heard about.

“Sure is sugarcube, ah even met him, he was at the new year family reunion party right here in Crystal Town and woowee it was sure a lot of fun, wasn't sure about him being there at first since he isn't really family but from what ah heard from mah aunt and uncle he spend so much time around there with Braeburn even helping out with the chores that call him part of the family” Applejack said recalling what her aunt and uncle said and how true friendship is between Braeburn and Electuroo where.

Sunset Shimmer decided to speak “my interest is these statues that was put into the museum a few days ago, something about them really odd and might perk all of your interests too”

“What do you mean Sunset?” Fluttershy was given the newspaper clipping and saw what look like five equine statues with gems in them. “Wait aren't those the crystals that was stolen by Black Rose?”

“They sure are and those statues are pony guards part of Equestria, unicorn in the middle, two pegasi and two earth ponies, all with royal armour on.” Sunset said pointing to each as she spoke.

Pinkie Pie giggled “That really cool since your a unicorn pony from that world too right?”

“Indeed that how I knew these in a heart beat, but the question is... why are there statues of equestrian ponies in this world” Sunset Shimmer gave the clipping to Rarity.

“Oh my they look really dazzling with those crystals in them, maybe we can find out by checking it out after we checked into our hotel, I heard that it the best in Crystal Town and so are their spas too” Rarity thought about relaxing in a spa with a sigh.

Rainbow Dash took the clipping next “That awesome and all but why do we have to go to some crummy museum?”

“Come on sugarcube if it about Twilight and Sunset's world wouldn't you want to know a little it more about them?” Applejack said taking the clipping from Rainbow Dash.

“Yeah that true and the pegasi do look really awesome though” she thought back about the wings she had “Wish I could of kept those wings though, it was amazing to fly around and pure awesome when I gave Scoots a ride on that dance”

Pinkie Pie points out “Girls and Flash look at that!” the car slows and parks in a lane they all got out just in time to see the sunset as it shined into the spire in the distance “Wow look at all those colours!”

Sunset Shimmer looked to the sky as the crystal spire did it usually sunrise and sunset job “Now that something to see, it almost as if magic excises right there in that town” She looked up at the aurora formed by the Crystal Spires Crystal Heart. “So that what they meant by the heart of the town shines at dusk and dawn... quite the light show!

“I got to admit that is pretty neat to see” Flash said and saw it die away and was gone just as fast as it appeared “Alright girls let get going before we late for our check in” they all nod and got back into the car and it drives off down the road to the town.

Morning...

At the Crystal Town Mall the girls and Flash sat together in the restaurant called 'Crystal Corner Dinner' and it was a big one at that, it was only morning and it was almost packed with the local people and those that come into work at the business district of the town all to enjoy a good breakfast.

“Wow this place is packed, I am glad we got here when we did” Rainbow Dash said seeing how full it was. “Guess this is the best joint” she took her soda and drunk some.

Rarity eating her eggs on toast with bakebeans enjoyed the taste as well the style they made it on the plate “Not only that they are great with detail and the right amount a girl needs to start the day.”

Flash noticed a lady with a yellow shirt with black trousers with black shoes, she had long silver hair and taking some of the trays away from customers and talking to them with smiles “They also customer friendly too and got to admit these Double Chocolate Supreme donuts really got a sweet taste to them, no wonder they the best sellers around these parts including this hot chocolate with whipcream and white chocolate sprinkles” he enjoying his desert as he already had his breakfast.

Pinkie Pie put a hand out “Hi ya miss”

“Hello how can I help you?” she said with a smile

“Oh I want to know when they will start selling those Apple Fritters, I heard the apples that used are grown here in Crystal Town” Pinkie Pie beamed

Stardust look to her watch “Well I say about ten minutes miss, but if you order now, one of the staff bring it right over”

“Thank you Stardust” Pinkie Pie said with a big smile. “Oh and this place is super cool, I never seen so many people happy to eat in a restaurant what your secret?”

Stardust shrugs “Nothing really miss, just a good smile, good service, good food and nice music, it all soon adds up and hope you enjoy your stay in Crystal Town” Stardust walks off going back to her duties.

Sunset Shimmer walk by her and sat with the others “Sunset I saved you this, hope you don't mind” Fluttershy gave her a tray with some toast on it with a bowl of fruit salad and a drink.

“Thanks Fluttershy, ever since that incident nine months ago I been trying my best to make amends to what I did to all of you... I really happy that you all could forgive me... it been one of the hardest things since I left Equestria”

Stardust heard this turning her head slightly “Equestria?” she whispered “She must be one of those ponies...” Stardust frown a little “Those statues of course” she came back to the table and spoke “Your from the alternate world aren't you?” she knelt down and whispered making them all turn to her with shock. “I finish in about a few hours, meet me at the Museum” with that Stardust leaves making them all stare at Sunset Shimmer then back at the lady walking away.

Rainbow Dash slap herself in the head “Of course now I remember where I saw her, she the one that push the button with the major two years ago”

Rarity tapping her folk on the plate “That was rather odd don't you think? She didn't seem to be phased by the idea of Sunset shimmer being a pony...”

Sunset was also wondering that too “I guess that means we all are taking that trip to the museum after all”

Flash was curious now “you don't think there something more to this town then meet the eyes is there?”

“Well you do have those funky ruins to the mountain ridge, I bet it something to do with those statues” Rainbow Dash said and went on to drink her soda.

“Ah wouldn't put it pass ya on that one Rainbow” Applejack ate her apple.

“Well we not going till I had my Apple Fritter, I heard they really tasty and want to see if it true” Pinkie Pie said and they all just laughed with her afterwards finding it amusing.

Afternoon...

A few hours later they arrived at the museum and waiting there in casual clothing was Stardust. “Sorry about the short word but when I heard from you young lady about Equestria I knew you must be from there and the events that took place nine months ago must be connected some how since Black Rose did steal a crystal from Canterlot High at the same time the crazy light show happened”

Sunset Shimmer was stunned by this “Wait your telling me that this Black Rose Character, that crystal thief used what I was doing as a distraction to get a crystal from the school?”

“Indeed” she step up to them with a hand out “My name is Stardust” they each took turns shaking her hand.

“My name is Rarity darling”

“Name Rainbow Dash”

“Pinkie Pie!”

“Fluttershy”

“Flash Sentry ma'am”

“Sunset Shimmer”

“Applejack ma'am and nice to ya again, how Electuroo?”

Stardust sighed “Wish I knew, it been over a week since I last heard from him, he off on a big adventure with my sister Daring Do”

“Daring Do? Your sister!?” Rainbow Dash gasped with surprise “I watched every movie she ever made!”

Stardust smiled “Sound like she got a big fan” they walked up into the museum with her “Funny thing is Daring Do been to Equestria about 100 years ago to be exact”

“That not possible” Rarity spoke and turn to Pinkie whom was giggling “Pinkie?”

“It is so possible Rarity it just took some weird magic to do that to Daring Do and it was a big oof a dozzy trap that took her 100 years into the pony past and spent 20 years as a explorer for the sun Princess. right?” she turn to Stardust.

Stardust stared at her “How the heck did you know that?”

“Just a hunch” Pinkie Pie walked by her leaving Stardust with a raised figure and open mouth to figure it out.

Sunset Shimmer thought about it “Come to think of it, there was written novels of Daring Do back in Equestria as well historic facts about the real deal Daring Do being one of the best archaeological ponies that worked under Princess Celestia herself in some cases. If I remember correctly” they continued to walk down the hall and through exhibits with people walking and chatting the historic items on display.

“Did you say Princess Celestia? But I thought she a principle” Fluttershy looked a bit confused by this.

Sunset shimmer put her hand on her head “There a Princess Celestia and Luna in Equestria and believe there other versions of you girls there too, didn’t I explain this last time when you lot ran into the Twilight of this world?”

“Oh yes you did, sorry I kind of forgot”

“It ok Fluttershy but the question I got is Daring Do is a fictional character in both worlds but here she real and both been the real deal explorer and actor doesn't that mean she the only one and true Daring Do? How does that work?” Rainbow Dash rubbing her head a little with her hand. “A bit weird if you ask me”

Pinkie Pie shrugged “It most likely something to do with the fact they the blood line that held the Stardust Crystal all the way about 6000 years go and they been a bit of both worlds”

Stardust was getting really creeped out by Pinkie Pie “Ok seriously stop doing that...”

“Doing what?”

“Knowing things that you shouldn't even know” Stardust replied rubbing her head “You know what forget it... let just go to the exhibit before I just lose it”

Rarity sighed “I think your freaking out the poor dear Pinkie Pie...”

“Sorry I just wanting to help...”

“There helping Pinkie and there just plan crazy weird you can pull, just tone it down for now ok?” Rainbow Dash put her hand on Pinkie's shoulder.

“Okie dokie loki” She replied with a grin.

Rarity stopped at a case of crystals “oh my stars... these are to die for... they so pretty and perfect...” the crystals was in one of each slot of a old looking gold relic

“That the crystals of harmony, during the fourth year of the crusaders they came across this relic without a temple in Europe, they only on display for a short time here in Crystal Time before being shipped back to the London Museum in the UK” Rarity look to the elderly lady standing by her. “I always enjoy coming here and looking at history even when I was young, it brings piece to mind knowing that a relic like this can tell you a story of belief, hope and unity to those that held these crystals as if magic itself existed”

“That amazing” Rarity was stunned by the story of these beauties before her. “Thank you for telling me this”

“Anytime youngster, 'live in the here and enjoy it with friends and family' I always say, have a nice day young lady” the lady walks down the hall.

Fluttershy turn to Stardust “Who was that?”

“Oh that was our librarian, she very sharp for her age and wise, many go to her for advice when they have problems and she uses historic references to put forward a point, in fact she the one that discovered the only piece to tell the story of the 'fall of the Crystal Empire' and what a tale that is” Stardust said walking on with the group.

Flash Sentry looking around was quite amazed at the collection of artefacts, bones and other historic relics that sit within the halls “I am guessing that most of this place has items from the Empire ruins right?”

“Indeed Flash and here we are” they stood before the statues

Flash looked at the middle one with the red horn on it “That some ruby... who is that?”

“No one knows the name but he was a tyrant that came to our world and killed the queen of the Crystal Empire from what the tale goes by...

Across the void he did come

Came to conquer Crystal Empire

Upon the storm of attack

She stood tall and protect her kin

She may have fell but her heart still shines

Protecting one and many of all...

That is the rhyme that I heard, not quite sure what happened but the one tale stated that magic poured through the arch and into our world turning human to pony kind but then the magic was pulled back in and with a lashing of roar and quake the land around that shook and fell upon the day all nature striked the once kingdom of the Crystal Empire fell in one short fall and thous end that day they wonder endless till one tale was left...” Stardust said staring at each of the statues

Sunset Shimmer was stunned “If I heard that right this arch that spoken of is a gate between our worlds one here and one there between the two Crystal Empires a unity of some sort between ponies and humans but then this pony king the one in the middle must of conquered his empire and turn into a hellish nightmare then turn on this empire on this world and stuck hard and fast destroying not only hope and love but the queen herself... then he found a way to reconfigure this world...” Sunset Shimmer shivered at that thinking this dark being was off his rocker for sure.

Rainbow Dash yawned “Yeah yeah, magic energy from Equestria turning people into ponies I get it...”

Flash frown a little “Wouldn't that upset the balance between the two worlds?”

“I believe it would Flash” Rarity looking to the statues “Talk about creepy that gem is making me feel cold for some reason...”

Stardust put a hand on her shoulder “Rarity everyone has that feeling when looking at this statue that why the east wing ruins was sealed... but since it was all destroyed a week ago the statues was moved here for further studies and to be viewed by the public, both, me, Sombra, Shining Armour and Cadance all agreed with the family at Sweet Appaloosa Orchard to put it here and we pretty much have the most influence on stuff like that”

Applejack sitting against the wall looking to the statues with a nod munching on a apple then swallowed “Ah can agree with that since mah aunt and uncle do supply pretty much everything that sound here in Crystal Town in organic means, also the mayor have that power and with the backing of the school principal and vice-principal it definital make sense why it here”

“And Stardust would have some say as well since she was the one that made that awesome crystal heart I checked out earlier, it really cool how the light show happens too” Rainbow Dash looking to the statues “But I liking the look of those pegasi, they look mean and cool”

Sunset Shimmer turn to Stardust “You said something about Black Rose, these crystals, all of them they the ones that was stolen...”

“Yes Miss Shimmer they are” Stardust saw them looking at her “She stole all the crystals to place in these five statues to open a gate way to Equestria” the all gasped at this point “That where my son, Braeburn and Daring Do are at the moment... all because she stole the Stardust Crystal...” she look to Pinkie Pie “That is why our bloodline is been going on for 6000 years... your hunches are really creepy”

Pinkie Pie just kept that happy go look “I know, sorry about that Stardust, so what happened to the gateway?”

“Destroyed, it collapsed soon as they cross the rift. So we have little or no information on their progress...” Stardust sat down by Applejack. “Just telling someone else about the current problems is a bit relieving...”

“It strange... but I think that statue is alive...” they all turn to Sunset Shimmer. “Look at that king statue and tell me what you see...”

They all looked at it and suddenly a cold wind whipped around. Stardust felt unease with many people starting to back away from it she turn seeing their fear and look to it she saw what seem to be smoke coming from it and a pair of red eyes in green... “That ruby horn must something to do with this...” Stardust run by the girls “Flash help me!”

Flash jumps up and grab hold of the horn with Stardust and both pulling “This thing stuck”

“Just pull!” they pulled it out almost falling over and the smoke disappeared and the eyes.

“Wh-what was that!?” Fluttershy hiding behind a display with fear with Rarity whom was also spoked

“How did you know how to stop it darling?”

Stardust look to the red ruby horn in her hands “I don't know... I just felt that was the connection... and decided to jank it out”

Flash got down and helped her “Either way it was a good thing, whatever that creature was it not bothering us now...”

“I better put this somewhere safe... something about it just don't feel right” Stardust look to the horn

“You me both sister” Pinkie Pie stared at it “It gives me the shivers just staring at it”

Crystal Shield standing by the doors leading to items that never on display but being studied saw Stardust with the seven students coming his way “Stardust what going on? I got a call on the radio about you ripping off a horn from one of the equine displayed statues”

“This thing you mean?” he look to it “If I didn't, something bad would of happened... we all saw a pair of creepy glowing green and red eyes stare at us laughing evilly too... it was some sort of shadow creature and this horn is somehow connected to it...”

Crystal Shield felt uneasy “So the rumours are true... I knew those voices I heard wasn't my imagination” He sighed “I will let you through Stardust but I can't allow them to come, I will lose my job if I did...”

“Understood, kids I be back in a moment ok?” they nod and she walks through the doors as he let her through unlocking it with his key card.

Crystal Shield closed it and turn to the seven students “So how your stay been in Crystal Town part from that little scare?”

“It would be more divine darling if it wasn't for knowing what we know now” Rarity sighed “and that creepy eyes was damn right scary”

“Yeah what up with Daring Do taking off with those two boys Electuroo and Braeburn?” Rainbow Dash stood against the wall looking to the police officer that was doing guard duty in the museum.

Crystal Shield chuckled “One Braeburn is and always Electuroo's closest friend and two Electuroo is as stubborn as Daring Do, Angel and Stardust... so when he called her Stardust knew there was no stopping Electuroo and just gave them all her blessing as a mother, sister and a friend to the Apple family” Crystal Shield closed his eyes with a sigh “And finally Mayor Sombra agreed to it, he loves Stardust and the family... he cares deeply for them that why on New Years he proposed to her and she said yes”

“How so romantic... I wish I was there to see that day... so when the wedding?” Rarity was delighted in such romance

“It was suppose to be next week but we put it on hold till all of their safe return” they all turn to see the mayor himself standing there with a smirk. “So what crazy magic have I missed this time?”

“Spoken eyes and a dark evil laugh in some crazy black and green smoke, other then that nothing” Pinkie Pie replied with a smile. “Could I prepare the party after you two tied the knot please!”

Mayor Sombra put his hand out “Of course, I heard from Shining Armour that Canterlot High personal party planner is the best around and a lot of good music and such, just only you get that band of yours and that DJ then it perfect”

“SURE!!!” Pinkie Pie put her hand on his and shook on it. “Yippy! I got to plan a awesome party and I got all my friends to help!” she gave three of them a big hug “Right!?”

“Sure Pinkie” Rainbow Dash chuckled.

Stardust came out through the door “Sound like someone planning the party after the wedding”

“Sure am Stardust! I am sooooooo happy!” Pinkie Pie dancing around with glee

“That girl sure have a lot of energy... wish I still had that” Stardust chuckled. “But it will have to wait though”

“Oh course darling your son and the other two return right?” Rarity replied

Sunset Shimmer walk to the window looking out with Flash by her “Something the matter?”

“No Flash... I just wonder about my old home that all... and about the past nine months... I worked so hard to make mends for my mistakes yet I feel incomplete” Sunset Shimmer crossed her arms staring out to the Crystal Spire.

“You done well Sunset and that we all can say for sure and you came along way” he put his hand on her shoulder “One step at a time right?”

“Yes one step at a time...”

“What in tarnation is this thing?” Applejack held up a black crystal that she just found.

Sombra frowned “That is one weird looking crystal...” suddenly as the Crystal Heart was hit by the sunset the light beam hit the crystal and it shattered to dust and then nothing. “Ok...”

Applejack look at her hand then to the window “Wow that something, it almost as if the Crystal Heart was defending us...”

“That impossible all it is a massive crystal that I and five others hand crafted, we took heart, time and care to make it including putting the magnets into it... and the light effect is all to do with the prisms through the spire” Stardust stated

“One that I designed personally” Sombra added putting his hand on Stardust's “We worked together on the project with everyone in this town putting a bit of their hearts into it”

“That the magic, friendship, unity and love... you all worked together for a common goal to fulfil your dreams on creating that landmark in the centre of the town and didn't you realise the town is circular too?” Sunset Shimmer point to the map of the town showing the way it was built. “Here the town hall, the school, the orchard, the mall, homes and even the business district all within a circular radius”

“Come to think of it, you do have the forest around the town over to the north part of the valley and the ruins just over there” Fluttershy points “It does kind of look like a circle now you think about it”

Sombra blinked “I never realised... amazing...” he put his hand on the map “Think of that Stardust quite the sight when you look at all the roads and how they laid out”

“Indeed your quite the artiest” she kissed him on the cheek

“Gross” Rainbow Dash stuck out her tongue and the others just laughing in response.

“How about we all get a bite to eat? My treat” Sombra suggested and everyone cheered “Crystal Shield keep up the good work”

“I will sir and may join you later, my duty finishes in a ten minutes” Crystal Shield replied as he watch them all leave talking to each other with smiles all round.

He stood against the wall with arms crossed “What a day... but I wonder if that crazy ruby horn is the reason behind all that creepiness in the ruins...” He thought about it “Yep for sure” he sighed heavily “Never a dull moment here in Crystal Town that for sure...” he smirked and wait for his shift to end...

Prologue

A Black Rose by any Name...

Prologue

Deep in a museum the guards to their round shining the touches through the quiet evening run as they checked on everything to make sure that the prized one of the kind crystals kept safe for all those to see including artefacts from the ruins with one crystal displayed in front of a old tablet showing people worshipping a crystal from the ruins not to far from town.

The guards leave closing the doors behind them. Suddenly movement from behind a pillar a person moved in the shadows to the very display before the tablet “So there it is” she whispered with a grin

“The last piece of the puzzle, it taken all these years with some delays from that annoying archaeologist and her team but now I finally got them all.” she pulled out a black crystal it shimmering with aura and with a flash the crystal in the case appeared in her other hand. “Oh how I love using magic in a world without magic” she chuckled lightly putting the other crystal away in her bag.

“Time to leave my calling card”

A guard re-enters and check once more but stop instantly at the sight of the case the crystal it was gone. “Oh no!” he saw the card and black rose quickly hitting the alarm “She here! Everyone seal the place off! Black Rose is here!!!”

“Check every corridor! She must be still in here!” another yelled as all the guards started to check every room and every part of the museum searching fast for the thief Black Rose...

Outside the museum Black Rose turn to the building seeing all the alarms going off “Too slow to catch this Rose” she chuckled and runs off into the darkness with her prize in her bag. “A Black Rose by any name is just as sweet” she whispered and continued to run on disappearing into the darkness...