Kamen Rider Harmonyby RaisingShad0wsChaptersPrologueThe Dawn of Battle! Harmony Takes the Stage!Clash, Harmony vs. The DefiledMysteries Abound, Who's the New Girl Really?Heralds of the Defiled, The Avatar of LustProloguePrologue “Huff... Huff...” This world of ours is filled with mysterious and strange wonders. From the knowledge of dreams to the uncharted territories of deep space. “Control to Dive team. What's the status of the excavation?” Some wonders can be uncovered from the tiniest of excursions, maybe a lost memory that is found when one cleans their closet. While others can be found in the most dangerously guarded temples and ruins. “This is Dive Leader, we haven't found anything at the drop site. Most of the area's covered in rubble, and would take weeks to get cleared out.” “Roger that Dive Leader, return to the surface, there's a vessel up topside waiting for pickup.” But there are some things... There are somethings that just need to be left alone. “Holy shit, what is that?” “Dive Leader, do you copy? Dive Leader, what's the situation? Dammit Deep Sea, if you're pulling another dumb-assed prank just to scare us again I'm gonna- Some things coming out from the back, It's gonnaAAAAARGHHHHH----------” Some things, they don't want to be uncovered. Canterlot High School, 11:30 PM- “N-N-No... No stay back!” In the middle of an extremely large Soccer Pitch, a group of teenagers wearing pale white full bodysuits with fake eye-masks surrounded another teen, who wore a black leather jacket, with a pair of blue jeans a yellow t-shirt, and sneakers The black hair on top of his head would normally be slicked back and full of grease, but was presently a messy mop. “Join uuuuuuuuuuussssssssssssssssss.......” The crowd of teenagers moaned, continuing to advance on the only non-bodysuit clad member. “It will make you feel better- -it will make you one with us- -be one with us- -it is who you are-” “No, Stop it, Stop it!” The teen cried, trying to run through a part of the crowd like a football player only to get thrown roughly back. “It's no use Ace. You will become one of us. He... He needs you, for lack of a better word, to be the stepping stone of his gift.” The teen known as Ace looked up, seeing the figure of a smallish looking teenager standing on a set of bleachers against the light of the moon. The only thing that he could see about her was the glimmering golden hair that was billowing out like an invisible wind and a pair of eyes that continued to shine a pale green light. “You all are crazy!” Ace snapped, gasping as several of the other teens grabbed his limbs to restrain him. “No... NO! You're not going to make me into one of them! You're not going-” Ace's body began to glow a sickly disgusting violet. His body convulsed, limbs thrashing every which way as the light began to consume him. The teens that surrounded the human once known as Ace Ray stepped backwards, watching as the now human shaped-light melded and formed into a small sphere of dark purple energy. After a few moments the sphere reformed, revealing a monster. The teen on the bleachers leapt off from the top and stood in the circle as the teens took a knee. After a few moments she smiled, grinning at her handiwork before placing a hand over her lips. “Welcome to the family.” The Dawn of Battle! Harmony Takes the Stage! Lunch time seemed normal, for the most part. As Sunset Shimmer walked into the Cafeteria, she could see that the school cliques were acting just as they had been for the past four years of her time at Canterlot high. She sighed, looking down at the floor as several students looked in her direction and shared hushed whispers with their fellow class mates and pointed in her direction. “I wish that they wouldn't do that... I thought that it would blow over much sooner than this...” “SUNSET!” The yellow teenager turned, leaping to the side as an all pink blur nearly bowled her over. “Pinkie, you know I hate it when you do that...” She mumbled, giving the schools number one hyperactive teenager a hug. “Yeah, but there's something wrong.” Pinkie replied, planting her face directly into Sunset's and getting closer than she would have wanted to. “Definitely very wrong.” “Eh heh heh heh... What's wrong Pinkie?” Sunset asked, gently pushing her back a little. Partly pushing, partly guiding, the brightly pink-clad teenager led Sunset Shimmer over to the far side of the cafeteria. She said nothing, continuing to guide her over to where the other girls that dethroned her at the Fall Formal, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and Fluttershy, were all sitting with two spots available. They all looked up, each smiling as Pinkie popped up behind her and took a seat next to Rarity's right. “Well, we figured, now that you're out of rebuilding the front end of the school that you smashed because of the Element of Harmony that you st- “ Several hands were placed over Pinkie's mouth before she could finish, just as Sunset Shimmer began to blush in shame. “What Pinkie means dear, is that we were hoping that you could sit with us. After all it was suggested by a Princess that we could teach you about friendship right?” “Yeah, after what you did I don't think that many people would really want to hang out with you.” Rainbow Dash added, before getting punched in the shoulder by Applejack. “I-uh-I mean not that it wasn't totally awesome, you turning into that monster thing but- I get it Rainbow Dash.” Sunset Shimmer replied, turning away from the group. “Look I get that you're actually trying, but I know that your only doing this because Princess Twilight told you to do it. I don't blame you if you wouldn't want to hang out with me anyways.” “But that's not true Sunset!” Fluttershy replied, looking up from the fruit salad that she was presently picking at. “We know that your really sorry and that you're just trying to make amends for everything you did.” “Trust us. This ain't gonna be an easy one that ya'll can jes' fix with a snap of your fingers.” Applejack added, giving an earnest smile to Sunset Shimmer. The other teens followed suit, with Rainbow dash pulling the open chair out for her. Something in the way they acted, something sparked within the teen that she hadn't felt since she left Equestria and it felt warm. She quickly sat down in the open seat, the people that were willing to be her friend were willing to give her another chance. “But, I don't get it. After all of those horrible things that I did to you... Why?” She asked looking around and watching as they all seemed to be thinking the same thing. “Do you really have to ask?” Pinkie said, looking across from the lunch table at her. “It's simple really, that's what friends do. Especially when someone wants to try.” Rarity added, extending a hand towards Sunset Shimmer. “I think that proper introductions are underway, don't you girls?” She asked, as a chorus of, “Yes,” could be heard from the other girls at the table. “Well then, my name of course is Rarity and I am pleased to make your acquaintance.” As introductions were held around the table, along with subsequent chatter about her likes and dislikes, a group of students all wearing white t-shirts and blue jeans were glaring in her direction. None of them moved or said anything, but from a glance one could tell that they were staring directly at Sunset Shimmer. “Mistress Lust, is that the one?” One of them said, barely audible over the noise and chatter of the room. “Yes Ambition, that is your target. Sunset Shimmer, the lost student to the other world's Princess Celestia.” A voice whispered into the leader of the group's, Ace Ray, head. “She would make a fine addition to our lord's army. It would... Make me very happy if you could bring her to be a part of our little community.” The dark blue teen smirked darkly, continuing to maintain his gaze at Sunset Shimmer. “It shall be done as you command Mistress.” He said, turning around and staring at the plate of food that had been absentmindedly placed in front of him. “You,” He said, looking across the table from where he sat and seeing a light green boy in front of him. “Yes my lord?” The boy asked, looking up from staring at Sunset Shimmer. “You have class with her don't you?” “Of course my lord. I do have class with the target.” The boy answered, watching as Ambition smiled. “Excellent, then you know what to do.” He said, watching as he nodded. “It shall be done as you will it to be done.” Lunch time ended faster than what Sunset Shimmer had originally experienced. Normally she was busy bossing Snips and Snails around or chasing off other students that she didn't have any time to really be social with anyone else. And after her first year at Canterlot High, she was already one of the students to be afraid of. The ex-student of magic calmly trudged into her next class of the day, chemistry, and picked out a seat by the window. One of her favorite spots since the class bored her unless it was one of the days in Lab. The teacher Mr. Babble was an all right sort, a bit of a nut job if you asked her, but it wasn't what had really taken her by surprise. “That Can't be...” She thought, staring out at the window and into the soccer field. Sitting there, in the middle of the field with her face apparently buried deep in a heavy text book, was a lavender girl with a pair of blue jeans, a white button down shirt underneath a lavender vest with purple go-go boots and purple and pink hair. She seemed to be completely unaware of her surroundings, even as the current gym class for that period walked out onto the pitch. “Ms. Shimmer? Ms. Shimmer are you here?” The sound of Mr. Babble caused the teen to look up to the front of the class. “Yes sir, I'm here.” She said, watching as the teacher looked up from his desk and coughed slightly before looking back down at his notes. “I swear she went back to Equestria, but what is she... Unless she's this world's version of Twilight. I don't know but-” She stopped, facepalming at the realization and getting looks from the rest of the class including the teacher himself. “Eh heh heh heh... I just remembered something from last night's homework assignment that I forgot to put down...” She said, watching as the rest of the class looked away. “Of course its Twilight Sparkle. But it isn't Princess Twilight Sparkle, she left back for Equestria as soon as she got her crown back.” Sunset Shimmer turned towards the front of the class as a paper was passed to her, a notes page that the teacher expected to be filled in no doubt. The teen quickly adjusted herself on the stool that she sat on, preparing herself for another almost boring lecture from the teacher over a subject she learned almost two-and-a-half years ago from her previous life. “Hey Sunset. Sunset Shimmer...” A voice whispered to her right. She turned, her gaze meeting that of a light green colored boy's next to her. “Um... I don't think that I remember him letting us talk during Class Notes day.” Sunset whispered back turning back to the front of the board and quickly jotting down several topics that were present on the projector. “Well, he won't know if we're quiet. Anyways, there's something I wanna ask you.” The Boy continued, not noticing as Sunset Shimmer seemed to ignore him. “You see, a couple of guys I know are having a little get together and... well I was told to bring someone with me. You know, someone that I knew really well.” “Uh huh.” Sunset Shimmer replied, blankly staring ahead at the classroom. “Well, you see we've been Lab partners for a while now and I was wondering- Look, I know what you're trying to do and it won't work.” Sunset Shimmer whispered, cutting the boy off quietly. “You're trying to score a date with me so you can brag to your buddies how you managed to get close to the girl who nearly destroyed the last Fall Formal.” She looked down for a split second at her notes, making sure that they matched the ones that were posted from the projector before continuing. “You seem like a nice guy, really. But I already have plans, and they don't really involve being set as a part of a leader-board.” She could hear the boy's breathing increase rapidly, almost as if she were breathing in her ear. When she turned around, the teen nearly freaked and leapt out of her chair as the boy she was speaking with was centimeters away from her face. This caused the rest of the class to look in their direction, nearly embarrassing Sunset Shimmer. “Well my my my, I didn't know that talking about Electron Exchange could have that sort of an effect on people.” Mr. Babble commented as Sunset Shimmer picked herself up off of the floor. “Miss Shimmer, I understand that it must be really hard to get the boys off of you but when you want to turn people down please do not do it during my class. And don't do it especially when I'm giving notes to the rest of the class, it detracts from their learning environment as much as it does from yours. Am I clear?” Sunset Shimmer didn't say anything, but nodded slowly, climbing back onto her lab stool and looking back down at her notes. She could hear the snickering come from the other students in the room, but did her best to ignore them as she began to concentrate on keeping up on the work. During off period, in between classes - “You mean Green Gills, the scaredyist most nervous, unsociable person in all of Canterlot High tried hitting on you?” As soon as Sunset Shimmer had left her Chemistry class, she made her way to the Soccer pitch only to run into Rarity and Pinkie Pie halfway there. After explaining what had happened in class, both girls shared a look that appeared to be a cross between disgust and concern. “Yeah, you could say that.” The yellow teen replied, shuddering at remembering the sound of his voice. “Well it does sound unsightly, but don't you think that you were too hard on him dear?” Rarity asked, causing both Sunset and Pinkie Pie to look up at her. “No no, do understand, he isn't exactly the aggressive type. One would even say that it is the understatement of the year. But, maybe these friends of his were trying to build up his confidence?” Both teens shared a dubious look. “Trust me, if there's one thing that I've kept up on in all my years at Canterlot High, it's the list for those that would be most likely to get a date at this school.” Rarity pulled out her cellphone, as a list of names immediately popped up on the screen. “He does have incredibly steep competition but- Rarity, Sunset, Pinkie!” The three Girls looked up to see Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy all standing at the door that led to the Soccer Pitch. From what Sunset could see, Applejack hadn't been there yet and as they approached, she was nowhere to be seen. “What's going on with you guys?” Rainbow Dash asked, watching as Sunset looked away. “Some guy in Sunset Shimmer's Chemistry class tried to hit on her.” Pinkie answered, causing Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash to blush. “Really, all ready?” Fluttershy asked watching as the red and yellow haired teen looked away. “But who was it? I mean- It wasn't one of those sweet-talkin' manhandlers was it?” Rainbow Dash snapped, watching Sunset shake her head. “It was Green Gills.” She said, taking both girls by surprise. “And no, it wasn't because he did it that's got me worried. It was how he did it that scared me.” She said, placing one of her hands on her free arm. “What happened? Did he do something to you?” Rainbow Dash snapped. “Because if he did I'll- No Dashie, you can't hurt him! That's very mean!” Pinkie Pie said, cutting off Rainbow Dash, just as the cyan teenager was getting riled up. “She's right you know, as much as I honestly would like to avoid saying it.” Rarity replied, giving Pinkie her most apologetic smile. “The Wondercolts can't have their team captain in detention for ruthlessly beating down some love-struck student because they tried to get a date at an inappropriate time.” “It wasn't that...” Sunset Shimmer whispered, taking everyone else by surprise. “It wasn't that at all. It was just... It was just the way he tried to hit on me, something seemed off with the way he did it as opposed to the way other guys tried to do it you know?” The other girls gave each other a glance before smiling. “Hey, it's gonna be okay Sunset.” Fluttershy reassured, taking a step over to Sunset Shimmer and gently taking her hand. “Yeah, we're your friends!” Pinkie said excitedly, taking Sunset Shimmer's other hand. “If you need help in any way- We've got your back.” Rainbow Dash finished for Pinkie, holding open the door as both Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie walked her outside. “It's what friends do, and that's what we're here for.” “Friends... So that's what she meant by learning the magic of friendship...” Sunset Shimmer thought as the other girls walked with her to the bleachers on the other side of the soccer field. She couldn't help but smile a little, as the small group helped her push Green Gills earlier advance on her out of her mind. She looked up, and watched as Applejack walked up before she and Rainbow Dash got involved in a game of soccer before turning to Pinkie Pie and Rarity. “You know, there is something else that I did forget to mention.” Sunset Shimmer began, her thoughts dwelling on the girl that reminded her of Twilight Sparkle. “What is it?” Rarity asked. “I could have sworn that... That earlier I saw Twilight Sparkle right where Rainbow Dash and Applejack are now.” Sunset Shimmer replied, watching as Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Fluttershy stared at her incredulously. “But I thought Twilight went home?” Fluttershy asked, watching as Sunset Shimmer shook her head. “Maybe it's our world's version of her.” Rarity replied. “I certainly don't recall ever meeting a Twilight Sparkle during our time here outside of that week of the Fall Formal.” “Maybe she's a clone that was created by Princess Twilight to keep an eye out for Sunset Shimmer, because maybe your like her impromptu student from another world and-” Rarity placed a hand over Pinkie Pie's Mouth before she could go any further. “Pinkie Pie, breathe please. We don't want you to pass out now would we?” She asked, watching as Pinkie Pie shook her head. “And as impressive as your theory is, that's just it. It's just a theory, for all we know that could be our own version of Twilight Sparkle and we wouldn't even know that she existed until now.” “But why would she be here though? Wouldn't she disappear because Equestria's version of Twilight no longer is here?” Fluttershy whispered, watching Sunset Shimmer shake her head. “No, that's not it.” Sunset Shimmer said quietly. “Something must've kept this Twilight Sparkle away from Canterlot High when Equestria's Twilight showed up to get her crown back. If it didn't then both Twilight's would have caused a major rift in the space-time continuum and- Basically everything would get all broken and not fun anymore right?” Pinkie Pie said, cutting Sunset Shimmer off. The red and yellow haired teenager nodded. “Yeah something like that.” Sunset Shimmer replied. “Well at least the universe knows how to fix problems before they happen right?” Pinkie Pie said happily as both Rarity and Fluttershy shared a look. “I mean, who would want to see double of the same person at the same place at the same time? It would just get crazy!” She smiled, turning her gaze back towards the soccer field as Rainbow Dash and Applejack were in the middle of the game. “Yeah... Crazy.” Sunset Shimmer whispered. The rest of the school day went by as a blur, and before Sunset Shimmer knew it she was on her way to her locker and back home. Her new friends decided to tag along, she appreciated the company, and as they arrived at her locker in the mathematics wing of the school building, an icy chill ran down her spine. “Did you ever get the feeling that you were being watched?” Pinkie Pie asked, looking over her shoulder as the other girls appeared to get the same sort of feeling. “Ah know that this place gave me tha' spooks, but somethins' mighty off about it now...” Applejack mumbled. “I think that we should go...” Fluttershy mumbled, looking over her shoulder as Sunset Shimmer pulled her bags from out of her locker. The slam of the locker door wasn't all as reassuring as it should have been, and when the group of six moved away from it they all felt like several eyes were watching them. Rainbow Dash visibly tensed up as did Applejack, where as Rarity took Fluttershy by the hand and walked with her close by while Pinkie cautiously skipped along. They all stopped at the front of stairwell that led back to the first floor and blinked as Green Gills stood in the doorway and seemingly blocked off their escape. “Ah... Sunset Shimmer. How nice of you to finally show up.” Green Gills said, taking a step forward. Footsteps could be heard from behind them as several more teenagers appeared from around the nearby intersecting hallway, blocking off the way they came. “And look, you've brought some friends! How wonderful, now can I ask that you would please come with us? If that isn't so much trouble.” Sunset Shimmer shook her head. “Listen, I don't want to sound rude but, I don't want to go anywhere except back home okay?” She asked, watching the unpleasant smile on his face disappear slightly. “I know that you're trying to be nice, but your trying my patience and I don't have to go anywhere I don't want to.” Green Gills took a step forward, a devious smirk gracing his face. “Oh come now Ms. Shimmer. I really must insist that you come with me. If it's all the same you can- Look, if she doesn't want to go with you she isn't going anywhere with you!” Rainbow Dash snapped, standing in between Green Gills and Sunset Shimmer. Applejack followed suit as Pinkie Pie, Rarity and Fluttershy all stood closer to her. “Besides, she already told you no once. Why don't you take the hint and get someone else?” Green Gills' outstretched hand fell to his side, the smirk on his face falling. “You are someone who wouldn't understand Miss Dash.” He said quietly, chuckling a little. He then brought his hands together, cracking his knuckles as his eyes began to lose all of their color and turn a dark, soulless black. “You don't have a choice in this matter. Sunset Shimmer will come with us, and we will be taking her.” “Now hold on a minute, what'dya mean ya'ller gonna be takin' her?” Applejack snapped, tensing up as they began to hear low growls. “I told you, I'm not going anywhere.” Sunset Shimmer snapped, watching as Green Gills' skin began to change to a pale white. She, along with the rest of the girls in their group could see that a pale white goop began to form around their bodies, solidifying into an all-white jumpsuit as the seconds passed. “Something's definitely wrong here.” Sunset Shimmer thought, taking a half of a step back. “Well then... If you would be so kind Mr. Gills as to let us pass, then we can be on our way. After all, we do have a lot of homework to catch up on in class and- SILENCE!” Green Gills roared, cutting Rarity off guard. “If you will not come with us willingly Sunset Shimmer, then we shall take you by force instead.” He snapped, raising his right hand and snapping his fingers. In an instant, the teenagers watched with horror as the puddles that formed on the floor erupted into columns of white energy, concealing the teenagers that were once standing there. Fluttershy immediately latched onto Pinkie Pie's arm just as Applejack and Rainbow Dash stepped back and turned to run. Sunset Shimmer looked around, all she could see was white energy on either side of them, created from at least seven or eight teenagers that had managed to block off their escape. The columns, which were beginning to die down, revealed a pair of all black, pupil-less eyes that appeared to stare into the group of teens souls. As the torrents of energy died down, they all gasped at the new form that took the place of Green Gills and the other teens standing in their way. Before them was a monster, pale white and at least seven feet tall with black lines running all up and down along their bodies which seemed to radiate energy. Their faces were covered in a black, shell like armor as their arms were coated in the same armor only shaped like crab-claws. The monsters all were hunched over, menacingly closing in on their small group like predators advancing for the kill. “What... What are these things!” Rarity shrieked, latching onto Fluttershy as the group now appeared back to back from each other. “I don't know, but they ain’t human.” Rainbow Dash whispered. “What are we gonna do?” It was then that Sunset Shimmer's face brightened significantly. Staring into the stairwell behind the creature that was once Green Gills she smirked before plowing through both Applejack and Rainbow Dash. “Sunset, What are you doing!” Pinkie Pie shouted, watching the teen charge straight at the beast in front of her. However the teen knew what she was doing, and smirked slightly as whatever was in front of her lowered itself and prepared for the kill. She smiled, and slid underneath the beast right as it jumped, causing it to crash face first into the floor before turning to her new friends. “RUN!” She shouted, holding the door open just as the other five teens shared a glance. They didn't need to be told twice however, as an all black claw touched Fluttershy in the back, causing her to rocket into the stairwell with Rarity and Pinkie Pie in tow at an unbelievable speed. Rainbow Dash and Applejack soon followed, watching over their shoulder as Sunset Shimmer slammed the door in the beast's face before following the rest of them downstairs. “I didn't know that Fluttershy could run that fast!” Sunset Shimmer commented as she, Applejack and Rainbow Dash ran to catch up with the others. “Trust me, when she get's scared she gets moving. Besides, what would you do if you had something slimy and creepy looking touch you in the back?” Rainbow Dash asked as they got to the bottom of the stairwell and began to follow the trail of smoke that led deeper into the first floor. They caught up with Fluttershy, Rarity and Pinkie a few moments later, the runner hiding in a closet as both Pinkie and Rarity were trying to catch their breath. “Is she in there?” Sunset asked, watching both teens nod. “Well lets get her out of there, and then we'll- So, this is the target? Please, All I see is a scared little girl.” The group of teens looked up at the speaker, taking a step back as a dark blue teenager that wore a black leather jacket with a white t-shirt and blue jeans stood with several of the creatures that had them cornered just a few moments earlier. “Who are you?” Sunset Shimmer snapped. “What do you want?” The teen shrugged, popping a few joints in his neck. “Who I am doesn't really matter. But if you must know I was once the best member of the Canterlot Wondercolts Soccer Varsity team, Ace Ray. And what I want is you Sunset Shimmer.” The yellow teen stepped back as Ace Ray stepped forward. “So, how about you come with me and we'll all be one big happy- She's not going anywhere with you dammit!” Rainbow Dash snapped, taking everyone by surprise by stepping in front of Sunset Shimmer. “She said no once, and no means no! Or did you forget that during your time off from the squad Ace?” She snapped, watching as Ace rolled his eyes. “No, I didn't forget about that Rainbow Dash.” Ace snapped, cracking his knuckles and advancing on the group at the closet. “I didn't forget about how you got me thrown off of the team because I was better than you were. I didn't forget how you turned me against everyone here. I didn't forget Captain Dash. And neither will you.” Ace rose his hand, making a move to grab Sunset Shimmer, only to meet Rainbow Dash's fist with his face. The resulting impact caused Ace to stagger slightly, but not enough to back away from Sunset Shimmer. The rainbow haired teen recoiled, her fist in pain as she drew it back to her chest. “What the heck, his face feels like it's made of steel!” Rainbow Dash thought just as Ace turned on her. “Man... I know that I was told to collect Sunset Shimmer, but a little revenge can't hurt.” Ace growled, turning his attention to Rainbow Dash before throwing a punch at her. The teen threw her hands up to protect herself, only for the force of the impact to knock her into the wall. He turned back on Sunset Shimmer, watching out of the corner of his eye as Rainbow Dash slid down to the floor with Rarity rushing to her side. “Now, lets see what motivates you. Let's see what we can do to twist that drive of yours.” He said, his voice full of confidence as he began to reach for Sunset Shimmer a second time. Ace's reach was interrupted however as his target was pulled out of the way, thanks to Applejack, who passed Sunset Shimmer to Pinkie Pie before swinging a kick at him. Ace caught the incoming attack, throwing her to the ground before advancing on Sunset Shimmer and Pinkie Pie. “Anyone else want to get in my way?” Ace snapped, a dark aura beginning to radiate from his body. He was answered by a cowgirl boot and a blue fist to the face, knocking him backwards away from Sunset Shimmer and Pinkie Pie. “I knew that you still had it AJ.” Rainbow Dash complimented, leaning on Rarity for support as they both gave each other a high-five. “Now you know that Ah couldn't let mah best friend deal with a punk on her own could Ah?” Applejack replied, “Now les' git gone fore-” The southern teenager was thrown backwards by a kick that was sent her way. Rainbow moved to help her up, only getting punched in the side of the head and knocked into Pinkie who was standing behind where Applejack lay. “Hey! That wasn't nice, apologize!” Pinkie Pie snapped as Ace smirked. “Uhh... Pinkie Pie, we're long since past the point of getting apologies...” Rarity whispered as she, and Sunset Shimmer helped Rainbow Dash and Applejack back up to their feet. The door to the closet opened slightly, as Fluttershy's eyes could be seen from within, watching as Ace advanced on the other five teenagers with the creatures that he was with. “You girls have been a nuisance ever since I started this little charade.” Ace replied, breathing deeply through his nose before beginning to flex every muscle in his body. “I think it's time that I should just break you now. I might get chewed out by the boss, but when there's another Defiled in the ranks, it ain't gonna be so bad.” Ace cracked his knuckles a second time just as Rainbow Dash and Applejack were helped up by Sunset Shimmer and Rarity. “Defiled? What are you talking about?” Sunset Shimmer snapped, watching as the other creatures around Ace began to advance past him. “Oh, well don't you know?” Ace asked. “Those that forgo everything that makes them perfect at least once is stained.” He smirked, the dark aura that radiated from his body slowly became more and more opaque as it took on a purplish-black color. “Sunset Shimmer, my master want's you. And I intend to give your stained soul to him.” He snapped, his body disappearing in a flash of black light. “Stained... Soul?” Sunset Shimmer asked, stepping back from the other girls as what could be only described as a netherworldly light show began in front of them. A ring of black eldritch fire erupted around where Ace Ray once stood, crackling and howling with an unearthly wail as a dark green light cast itself over the hallway. From within the ring, they could see several spikes rising out of the teenager's shoulders as a massive pincher-like claw took the place of Ace's right arm. His body seemed to be covered in a black carapace of scales as his other arm and feet were replaced with demonic-looking claws. A pair of Demonic wings erupted from the teens back as a scorpions tail grew from the front. Sunset and her new friends gasped, watching Ace's transformation unfold. A new pair of dragonic red eyes appeared in Ace's face as a pair of Golden horns erupted from the sides of his head, completing the look. “How do you like my new look girls?” He asked, moving his shoulders around as he took several steps towards them. “This... This isn't real...” Rarity whispered as she helped pull Rainbow Dash and Applejack away from the, demonic abomination in front of them. “What are you supposed to be? The Devil or something?” She asked, watching as the creature shrugged. “Well I guess that you could call me one of his children, though I never knew him.” The creature replied, raising his pincher at the group of girls in front of him. “But if you must know before you die, my name is Ambition. And I am here to take Sunset Shimmer back to my master, so that she may be reborn in our folds!” The statement would have had more impact had not a pale yellow blur erupted out of the nearby closet and attempted to roundhouse kick Ambition. Fluttershy and the other girls gasped, watching as Ambition caught her leg and held it tightly in his grasp as the teen struggled to remove it. “Ahh... The gang's all here then.” Ambition commented, lifting Fluttershy into the air before throwing her towards her friends. “Now then... I'll start with you Sunset Shimmer. Then maybe I might just have a little snack with your friends to chase down lunch earlier today. How does that sound?” The yellow teen watched with horror as the abomination advanced on her and her friends. “What am I going to do?” She thought, looking in front of her as Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and Fluttershy began to develop significant bruises from their futile attacks on Ambition. “I don't want to die, and I don't want my friends to get hurt either... Of all the times to not have magic, why do I not have it now?” As she was thinking, Ambition and his monsters were getting closer. The flaming headed teen and her friends were slowly getting backed into a corner, and there was no way out of it. She could hear the demonic growling of the monsters that were with him, and she could hear his chuckling as he advanced, but there was nothing that she had ever read that could help her deal with a human student from another realm turning into a demon. “Now now, we all can't win them all now can we?” Ambition asked, raising up his pincher as he began to close the distance. “Here is the part where I get to say Welcome to the- ZAP! ZAP! ZAP ZAP ZAP! Several beams of lavender energy cut through Ambition's claw like it were paper, causing the end to clatter to the ground, before striking the wall behind them. The demonic beast turned as did it's minions which caused Sunset Shimmer and her friends to look up in surprise. “Who the hell're you?” Standing behind the group of monsters was a figure. None of them could tell whether it was male or female due to the dark purple bodysuit with black heavy boots that he wore, and no one could see the face as it was covered in an all purple full-face helmet with a pair of pink bug-like eyes on the front. A simple rose colored six pointed star was embedded on the top of the stranger's helmet as was in the middle of his chest as a silver belt buckle that bore the same star gleamed in the fluorescent light. A simply long lavender scarf fluttered off from the figure's neck, bearing the same six pointed star that the rest of his suit presently had, as one of his hands clutched a small pistol that was in the shape of a magic wand. “I'm just a drifter, looking for the true meaning of Harmony.” The figure answered, quite clearly even though his mouth was completely covered. “I am the one destined to defeat the Defiled... I am Kamen Rider Harmony.” Clash, Harmony vs. The DefiledClash, Harmony vs. The Defiled Silence filled the hallway as Harmony's statement seemed to chill the air. Ambition stepped forward. “So... the big tough guy thinks that he can be a hero and save the day huh?” He snarled, pushing several of his minions aside and stepping to the back of the crowd of them. “I just want to know one thing before I kill you.” “Oh?” Harmony asked, lowering his weapon slightly. “And what's that?” “What's your face gonna look like when I rip that mask off of it?” He snapped, charging directly at the masked hero. The monsters that were with Ambition followed, seeming to forget about the girls that were almost huddled against the wall in fear of the demon and his minions. Harmony simply lowered her weapon and flicked it once. The barrel of the gun extended into a long, rapier-like blade as the handle of the gun simply straightened out to look like an improvised sword handle. “Now come and get me, those who have fallen from the path of light.” Harmony snapped, calmly waking towards the incoming horde. Harmony stopped once calmly gripping his weapon with both hands as the first creature came on him, and brought the blade down on an offending claw. After letting go of the sword with his left hand, Harmony caught the other claw with his bare hand and stepped back, causing the beast to lurch forward before slashing it in the chest with the sword. The masked hero then let go of the claw of the fallen beast, stepping over it and towards two more that approached with a leap at him. The first one he blocked and sent it to his left casually, almost as if he was uninterested in the beast before bringing the blade he carried down directly on the other attacker. It tried to defend itself, throwing its claws to block the incoming attack, but the blade passed through them and split them and their owner right down the middle. Another loud roar caused Harmony to turn, as the second member of the initial paired assault tried leaping at him. The masked hero stepped to the side, watching the beast face plant before burying the heavy booted foot into the attacker's back, causing it to remain still. One would even say that he seemed amused, calmly ignoring several of the other beasts that charged him and focused his attention on Ambition himself, guarding several claws from the back with his blade before throwing them off of him, spinning around with one slash and knocking them to the ground. “You should really get these Larvals looked at. They're really not up to par.” Harmony said coolly, casually side-stepping a swipe of Ambition's free claw. Two more claw attacks came to the Masked hero's way only to not connect with anything, with the purple-clad warrior evading both blows like a skilled master. “Hold still you little shit so I can strangle you!” Ambition snapped, swinging his damaged pincher at Harmony only to have it caught by his bare hand. The demon threw his other claw directly at the hero, only to have it blocked and cast aside by the blade in his free hand before getting kicked in the chest and sent sliding back at least a foot. “Oh what's the matter?” Harmony asked, blocking Ambition's broken claw with his sword before pushing it off of him and slashing his chest, causing sparks to erupt like a set of mini-fireworks that were set off from his body. “Strong enough to bully a group of six teenage girls, but not enough to handle someone that can fight back eh?” Harmony said, leaping into the air and giving Ambition a spinning kick to the face, causing him to slide backwards. The demon recoiled, taking another slash to the chest and backed off slightly, anger filling his face. “Master Ambition, what do we do now?” One of the voices of the Larvals asked as several of the creatures began to rise to their feet. “For now, let's let the target be.” Ambition replied, taking a step backwards as a ball of energy formed in his clawed hand. “But heed my words,” He turned towards Sunset Shimmer and her friends and cast a glance in their direction before turning back to Harmony. “This is not over. Sunset Shimmer will be ours, and your head will be on my master's pike.” He snapped, throwing the ball of energy to the ground and flooding the hallway with darkness. In an instant they were gone, Ambition and the monsters that were with him, leaving only Sunset and her friends with the strange masked hero. “W-Wh-Who are you?” Fluttershy finally stammered, watching as the hero appeared to holster his weapon on his belt. “For now, it doesn't matter. You're safe, but only until the Defiled return.” Harmony answered, turning to leave. “Return?” Pinkie Pie repeated, getting to her feet and helping the others as she did so. “You mean that those meanie mean monsters that looked like people will be back?” “Yes, they will be back. And more of them will most certainly follow.” Harmony sighed, casting a glance at the group of teenagers behind him. “It's not my place to make decisions for other people, but I think that you should leave this school while you can and save yourself. After all, a Defiled won't stop unless it gets its assigned target.” Harmony turned to go, leaving the group of teens dumbfounded. “Wait, I didn't even get your name!” Sunset Shimmer shouted, watching as the masked hero stopped. “Like I said, it doesn't matter. What matters is that you're safe now and that you need to skip town. Well at least until this member of the Defiled has been dealt with. Though I doubt he'll show up for a while.” Harmony shrugged, and continued to walk down the hall before turning down an intersecting corner and disappearing from sight. “Who was that?” Rarity said, looking after the masked hero almost with a twinkle in her eye. “Whoever it was, at least he ain't tryin' ta kill Sunset. Isn't that right y’all?” Applejack asked, turning to the other girls. “Yeah. Whoever he was, he was so awesome!” Rainbow Dash squeed before turning to Sunset Shimmer. “You okay there Sunset?” The flaming haired teen said nothing, but nodded in response as the fight that just happened weighed in on her mind. “The Defiled? What are they, and what do they want with me?” She thought, taking a nervous gulp of air. “I would say that this situation calls for a party but-” Pinkie began looking towards the hall with concern and sighing miserably, “I don't think that anyone's in the mood.” The pink girl then smiled gently before giving Sunset Shimmer a hug, which was followed suit by everyone else in the group as she remained silent. “Let's go home you guys...” She whispered, getting a quieter chorus of agreements from everyone else. Going home was something that was close on Sunset Shimmer's mind, but that was far from it. The biggest question that she had on her mind was simple. “Why me?” “What happened?” Ambition stood alone, trembling in the presence of a smaller teenage girl with long blond hair and pale white skin. Her piercing green eyes were glaring at his reflection on a mirror on the wall. “It's as I told you mistress. Some costumed freak calling himself a Kamen Rider came and kicked the crap outta me and the Larvals that you sent with me. We couldn't land a hit against the piece of shit an- What did I say about whimpering Ambition?” The teenager snapped, rounding on the Abomination. She raised an eyebrow as he remained silent, twiddling his clawed hand with his pincher together but saying nothing. “Well?” She asked, taking a step towards him. “It's unsightly mistress...” Ambition whimpered, looking away from the teenager as she took several gentle steps towards him. “That's right Ambition. If any of the others knew that you were reduced to a pathetic state such as this, they would look down on you...” She paused, gazing at Ambition's state and sighing slightly. “You weren't even fighting seriously against this... Kamen Rider were you?” “No mistress. I thought that he wasn't a threat.” Ambition answered. “Mistress Lust, what do you wish me to do?” He asked, watching the teen sigh slightly. “Do not worry Ambition.” Lust replied, rolling her eyes and getting some loose strands of her hair out of her face. “Return your attention into corrupting Sunset Shimmer. Should this... Kamen Rider interfere again you have my permission to kill him. Is that clear?” She smirked as Ambition nodded, before concentrating slightly as her eyes began to glow an eerie green light. Within a few seconds some of Ambition's wounds disappeared, the giant x that was across his chest seemed to fade as the end of his claw was regrown. “Now go, and don't come back until you've corrupted Sunset Shimmer.” Lust commanded, her eyes regaining a sense of normalcy. “Yes mistress.” Ambition replied, taking several steps backwards before disappearing and leaving Lust alone. The teen smirked before pulling out a makeup kit and opening a face mirror that was within. “Now as much as I regret to say this... The game is afoot.” “Who was that?” Sunset Shimmer remained silent as the images of the masked hero fighting off those monsters plagued her dreams. She sat alone in her bed, the apartment that she picked out closest to the nearby school offered little comfort as the shadows of the night seemed to be darker, and deeper. “It couldn't have been just a dream... It was all too real...” She whispered, climbing out of bed and walking through her door to her kitchen. Even the vast spacious outlook of her open living room seemed as dark and intimidating as a cave. “Its not like I was scared... Really. Those were just guys in fake rubber suits trying to scare me into leaving Canterlot High.” She thought, grabbing a glass from a cabinet and filling it with water. Just as the teen walked back to her bed to drift off back to sleep, she stopped. There was someone else in her bedroom, someone that didn't belong. Quickly she flipped a light switch, shielding her eyes as the bright glow of the lights in the room brightly filled it with warmth. Sunset Shimmer sighed slightly, turning the light switch off before walking back to her bed. “It must've been my-” “CREEEEAAAAAK!” The yellow teen jumped, whipping around aggressively before stopping dead in her tracks. Standing in the doorway was the creature that called itself Ambition, stepping forward and smashing through her doorway as his pinching claw was pointed at her. “I'm coming for you Sunset Shimmer. It is your turn to die.” The beast said, slowly clearing her room as the girl backed up. Behind Ambition she could see the forms of her new friends, surrounded by the white clad creatures that were with Ambition, bowled over in pain. “Don't worry, we've saved your first meal for you. After all, what's better to eat than those who you've considered your best friends?” The beast asked, cornering Sunset Shimmer as his pincher opened up and began to scratch the ceiling. “It is time for you to be reborn, Ms. Shimmer. And time for this world to end.” He declared, bringing the claw down on the girl. She tried to hold her hands to defend herself, but just before the claw connected with her body a blinding flash of light consumed everything around her. “NO!” Sunset Shimmer screamed, bolting up from her bed. Sweat ran down her face as most of the front of her night shirt was soaked. The teen looked around, her eyes scanning her dark room before leaping out of her bed and running to her door. “It-It was just a dream. That's all it was...” She said, looking out to her living room and staring out at the breaking dawn of the sun and shaking herself awake. “Get it together girl, you're not a scared little filly anymore.” She turned back to her room and walked to her alarm clock, turning it off before it could ring. “Well, it's as good a time as ever to get up and get moving...” She thought, before beginning her start for another day. “Well now dear that was certainly dreadful.” Rarity said, placing a gentle hand on one of Sunset's own. After getting cleaned up and ready for school, she immediately called the fashionista(Who happened to have everyone else's numbers at the same time and proceeded to insist on calling them over) over to a nearby Pancake House just a half of a block away from the school. “Are you sure that you didn't eat something terrible right before bed?” She asked, grimacing as the yellow teen downed another waffle in front of the others. “No, I don't normally eat before bed.” Sunset Shimmer replied, quickly scarfing down a piece of sausage. “But why not? Eating a Chocolate Cake always works for- But some of us don't have your incredible metabolism Pinkie.” Fluttershy said, cutting the pink teen off. “But that's not what I'm worried about.” She said, causing everyone to give her a curious glance. “Who was that masked person who saved us? And why did he save us anyways?” “Granny Smith told me ta' never look a gift horse in the mouth.” Applejack replied, downing what was left of her glass of apple juice. “Ah'm mighty grateful to the stranger. 'Specially chasin' them things away from us by himself.” “Plus he was totally awesome doing it too!” Rainbow Dash added, getting smirks from the whole rest of the table. “What, you were thinking it too weren't you?” She asked, silence answering her. “I was too focused in not dying Dash.” Sunset Shimmer replied glumly. The other teens fell silent as Sunset Shimmer turned to look out the window. Outside dozens of people could be seen, walking around blissfully ignorant that there was a demonic abomination running loose around the city leading a horde of other monsters out to get her. “Now I didn't mean it like that- It's fine Dash.” Sunset Shimmer said, continuing to scan the crowds. She knew that the Cyan teen meant well, but that wasn't an actual reason to go fan girl over someone trying to play hero. As the crowds continued to pass, she stopped. “No way...” She lowered an arm that the propped her head on and watched as the same lavender teen calmly walked out of a Library that sat directly across from where they presently sat. “Uh... Sunset, you okay?” Pinkie asked, watching her friends eyes follow the lavender girl. “You guys see what I see?” Sunset asked, getting everyone's attention as she pointed the girl out at the crowd. “Oh her?” Rarity asked, blinking a second as everyone else did a double take. “You are right, she does look like what Princess Twilight did when she was here.” “If Ah didn' know better, Ah'd say she was the spittin' image of her.” Applejack replied. “Oh my, hopefully we didn't cause too much trouble for her while the Princess was here.” Fluttershy whispered. Sunset Shimmer shook her head. “With the way that she carries herself-” She paused, looking at the girl and watching as her head was hung low, “I think that you guys kinda did.” She said, hearing audible gasps from the rest of the group and immediately shaking her head. “I didn't mean it like that! I just- Maybe this version of Twilight doesn't even know we exist yet!” Pinkie Pie replied. “And if she doesn't know we exist then that means that we haven't been introduced yet! And if we haven't been introduced yet that means I don't have her on my friends list and that means-” She stopped, taking a deep breath and calming down(much to the surprise of everyone at the table) before smiling, “I need to be her friend and we need to throw a party for her!” “A... Party?” Sunset Shimmer asked, grimacing slightly as Pinkie Pie nodded wildly. The others at the table shared a glance just as Pinkie Pie slid past Applejack from the booth and got up from the seat. “Yeah, end of school. At four. You'll all help right?” She asked, sounding more like a command. Sunset Shimmer looked around sharing the same, “Is she serious?,” look that everyone else did before turning back towards the window. “You do realize that we all have to get things done for school before we can even get a party together right Pinkie?” She asked, turning back to the now smiling teenager. “Yeah well duh!” Pinkie Pie replied, taking everyone by surprise. “Well of course we would have to get our homework and school stuff done before then because what fun would it be to come back home afterwards to a pile of work?” She smirked confidently, brushing several of her curly bangs out of her face before pointing slightly towards the ceiling with her finger. “Grandma told me this, “When someone is celebrating, it is rude to do work after the celebration has long since finished.” Don't worry girls, let your good ole' Aunt Pinkie handle this.” “But Pinkie Pie, most of us here are a year older than you are.” Fluttershy replied, only having it fall on deaf ears. “I wouldn't bother Fluttershy dear, I think that she's in one of her... Moods...” Rarity replied quietly as Pinkie Pie happily skipped out of restaurant and out of sight. “Well we might as well get going, school will start soon no doubt, and who's to say that we're going to be chased off by those things in rubber masks now right girls?” “Ah don't think so. 'Les of course they wanna mess with mah friends, an' even then they'd have ta git through me first.” Applejack replied before getting up from the bench. “I'm here too!” Rainbow Dash shouted, leaping up and nearly knocking over the table. “Those punks don't scare me, and if they come back I'll flatten them!” She shouted, just as she followed Applejack and Fluttershy(who was presently mortified at the concept of dealing with those monsters again) to their feet. Rarity and Sunset Shimmer were the last ones to stand, with the flaming yellow teen placing several bills on the table before following the others out of the establishment, although lagging behind slightly. “I wish I had all of your enthusiasm.” She thought quietly. As the group of teenagers left the restaurant, several tables behind where they were sitting, Ambition smirked and lowered the newspaper that he was hiding behind. “Oh?” He whispered, his eyes narrowing as he processed the new information in his mind. “So they're going to try and throw a party for a new girl at four then? Interesting.” The demon smirked, taking a sip of the coffee cup that was near him before re-concealing himself behind the paper. “Then at 4 they'll have a party that they won't soon forget!” The next few hours at school were eerily calm. At least in Sunset Shimmer's opinion. The hallway where she encountered Ambition was closed off due to the repairs that had to be made from Dash's impact against the wall. Sure, it put more people in her way getting from one class to another, but that was a small spot on the mess of problems that she now had to deal with. According to Dash, several of those impacts threw her off in Gym Class, which caused her to be benched for the whole day, while Fluttershy had to go to the Nurse because she passed out in History class. By two-thirty she felt completely miserable. Pinkie was M.I.A. at lunch, probably still trying to get things together for the party that she had planned on throwing, and Rainbow Dash had left for the Nurse's office to get Fluttershy which left her with Rarity and Applejack at the lunch table. She sat quietly, having nothing to say to either one of them until a cough from Rarity broke the silence between them. “Sunset dear, is there something wrong?” She asked. “Oh... No, no e-everything's... Everything's fine. Nope, I'm fine. Yes indeedy!” She said, giving a sheepish grin which fell short. Applejack deadpanned, lowering the apple that she had gotten from the lunch line. “Yer still upset about what happened to Dash an' Fluttershy aintcha?” She asked. Sunset Shimmer nodded. “Yeah, I am.” She answered, her voice quiet. “It's my faul- Now don't you start blamin' yerself about what happened to Dash and Fluttershy.” Applejack snapped, cutting Sunset Shimmer off. “We did what we did because we were your friends. Don' matter none 'bout what you did in th' past girl, just means that you're tryin' ta make amends. An' that makes you okay in my book.” Applejack said quietly. “Really darling, if we didn't think that you were at least trying, we would have helped push you in the right direction.” Rarity said gently. “You are making leaps and bounds from the -ahem- demon that you were at the Fall Formal.” Sunset Shimmer smiled, her face beaming as she looked up at the two friends with her at the table. “Thanks you guys. No really, I mean that. After all I've done to you, all of those mean and awful things that I've said and terrible things I've done you- AIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” A loud scream cut her off before she could finish, causing all three girls to jump to their feet. Bursting through the doors o other end of the Cafeteria came Pinkie Pie Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash all running at top speed to where they stood. Behind them were several Larvals, each hissing and growling as they gave chase. “What are they doing here?” Sunset Shimmer snapped, tensing up before leaping back as several windows shattered behind them, as several more Larvals crawled through the windows that were destroyed. As several approached, Rainbow, Pinkie and Fluttershy all stopped running and formed a wall around Sunset Shimmer. “What happened to you guys?” She asked. “We were headed to Pinkie's locker after she met up with us at the Nurse's office when these creeps showed up and chased us here!” Rainbow Dash snapped. “Guys, I don't know how your feeling but we have to keep these things off of Sunset!” “Right!” Was the chorus of shouts that met the cyan teen's ears before the Larvals leapt at them, preparing to tear them into shreds. The girls all met them in stead, each readying to beat them back as hard as they could. Rainbow Dash, who was the first to meet with the Larvals, tackled one to the ground, punching it in the face before leaping off and kicking a second. Two were then immediately on her, swinging their claws which threw her back. The teen wasn't about to give up though as she through a kick directly back at one closer to her right which sent it back towards the first two. Applejack bull-charged a group of three Larvals, knocking them right back out of the window before turning on two more. She leapt into the air, throwing a spinning back kick at one, only to have it blocked by one of its claws. The cowgirl used it as an opportunity to vault off of it onto the wall, before back flipping in between the two of them and knocking their heads together. Rarity, who was presently the closest to Sunset Shimmer, stepped back nervously, throwing a half-hearted punch at one of the Larvals only for it to miss. The beast hissed angrily, stepping forward and knocking a bottle of cider on the floor over her boots. The fashionista gasped, steam blowing out of her ears before she maniacally leapt at the Larval and pounded it senseless in the face with her fists. She repeated the leaps several times over as more and more Larvals were helpless to stop her rampage, twitching on the ground in her wake. Fluttershy was locked in the fetal position, trying her best to look invisible as several Larvals approached and walked around and over her. She heard a shriek come from above her and saw that Pinkie Pie was actually wielding a pair of lunch trays from the lunch like swords, and doing her best to keep them off of the timid teen. As soon as Pinkie Pie got to Fluttershy, she smiled and helped her up before handing her a tray. “Just think of it like whack-a-mole Flutters, it's fun!” She said, giggling like a mad man before turning on a group of six or seven more. Fluttershy shrugged, looking around as three more tried to close the gap between them and Sunset Shimmer before charging. As the chaos of the fighting continued, Sunset Shimmer could see that her new friends were fighting for her. “They're doing this for me? But why?” She thought watching as Rainbow Dash and Applejack both kicked the same Larval in the head. She turned, gasping as Rarity tried to tear off one of the claws of a Larval while beating it in the head with a chair, before resting her eyes on both Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy who were literally playing whack-a-mole with lunch-trays. But at the center of it all was the one who was after her. Ambition was calmly strolling from the Entrance to the Cafeteria, a small toothpick in his human mouth. He ignored the Larvals as they continued to advance before stopping where Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy stood. Both girls, who turned to see him at the last second raised their battered lunch-trays in an attempt to strike him, only to receive a punch and a kick to the gut which knocked them into the waiting claws of his servants. Pinkie Pie struggled as did Fluttershy, but after receiving several blows to the chest from his servants, they stopped struggling and remained still. This caught the attention of Rainbow Dash and Applejack, who both charged at Ambition like football players. The demon shrugged, casting off his human form before backhanding Rainbow Dash with his pincher. The Cyan teen was thrown back, striking a nearby column before dropping to the ground behind where at least ten Larvals were standing and falling unconscious. The demon then threw an uppercut at Applejack, knocking her back and staggering her before slashing her with his claws and drawing blood. The cowgirl fell to her knees as five slashes appeared where the bladed hands cut into her, before dropping to the ground and lying still as well. Rarity, who was the last teen standing save for Sunset Shimmer turned around, glaring at the demon before charging at him. Ambition shrugged, his claw knocking the fashionista into another column before she too joined the others in silence. Ambition just smirked, stopping within striking distance of the teen as she took a half step back into waiting Larval Claws. “It's funny isn't it?” Ambition asked, taking another step towards her and running a claw against her cheek. “How simple it is to break friendships apart just by sheer power. That's all there is to your little group of friends my dear. Now it's just me and you, and your soul is on the menu.” Sunset Shimmer shook her head. “On the menu? Really?” She asked, her face deadpanning as the demon remained silent. “I thought you were going to capture me, not kill me.” Ambition rolled his eyes. “Oh don't worry, it was just a figure of speech.” The demon smiled, a full set of razor-sharp black teeth glistened into view as he drew closer, filling Sunset's vision with his face. “Drink this look in mortal. This is the last thing that you will ever see as a free being. You're going to die, and behind the eyes of that which you smothered you will-” ZAP! ZAP ZAP ZAP! Ambition stopped, pain seared through his body as the sound of four bursts of energy struck his back. The demon turned, snarling at the sight that he beheld. “I'm sorry buddy. But souls aren't on the menu.” The masked hero from yesterday replied, lowering his weapon before it changed into a sword. “There is however a lovely piece of defeat on the menu that I simply must recommend.” Ambition snarled, turning towards Kamen Rider Harmony fully. “I do believe that no one asked for you to be here.” He watched as Harmony shrugged before beginning to advance. “Kill him. I've always wanted to go to dinner and a show.” He ordered, snapping the claw like fingers on his free hand. The Larvals that weren't busy with detaining Sunset Shimmer's friends charged with an enhanced fervor at the masked hero who decidedly gave a courteous bow. “Well now, let's get this show on the road.” Harmony said quietly, taking only a step forward before the first Larval was on him with a quick thrust of his sword, the masked hero easily punched through the shoulder of the beast before kicking it off and finishing it with a quick slash. He then turned, parrying two attacks from a separate Larval before striking it down with another slash. Two more ganged up on Harmony at the same time, causing one to grab his sword and take it from him. The hero, who casually let it go snorted slightly, before kicking the Larval in the face before retrieving the blade and finishing it with several strikes. Behind him two Larvals jumped into the air, landing on top of him before wrestling him to the ground. The hero got quickly back up, rolling one of the Larvals off of him before striking it with his blade. The other Larval tried rising with him only to get shot in the chest and in the face several times before it dropped back to the ground. The blade of his weapon, which was now folded above his gun gleamed like a polished amethyst as he held the gun aloft. Two more Larvals charged, before being felled by several bursts of energy, which cut through them and hit three more behind them. Harmony kept firing, taking out Larval after Larval and before too long the only ones that were standing were the ones that were holding up Sunset Shimmer's friends. Ambition couldn't believe his eyes, this human, this single stupidly dressed human was making a mockery of him and the forces that were underneath him. Just the thought enraged him. With a roar Ambition rounded on Harmony and charged, his eyes and thought processes filled with one thing: kill. Before anyone could react the star-shaped jewel that was on Harmony's head began to glow a faint lavender color just as his hand did, before several chairs levitated off of the ground around him. With a flick of the wrist the chairs were sent barreling into the charging demon, only appearing to have no affect on him as he came barreling down on the Hero. Calmly, Harmony sidestepped the charge, striking Ambition with the butt of his pistol before kicking him in the legs and causing the demon to slide backwards. Ambition rose to his feet and charged, his pincher open wide as he swung it downwards. Harmony caught the attack with a free hand, using the one that was occupied by the blaster to shoot at the Larvals with skilled precision. This enraged Ambition further, only to receive a kick to the chest before several more shots of lavender energy. “This... This can't be! I am Ambition, a member of the Defiled and master of your fate! How can I be beaten by a punk like you!” He roared, charging at Harmony a second time. The masked hero shrugged, reverting his pistol back into a rapier before slashing Ambition as he charged, cutting off one of his horns and reopening one of the wounds that he inflicted on the demon the last time. Ambition staggered, clutching his chest before trying to back hand Harmony. The rider, who presently caught the attack after switching to his right hand, pointed weapon at another group of Larvals who were presently holding Applejack, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash before firing, cutting through their numbers like butter. Ambition attempted to wrench himself from Harmony's grasp, only to put him in a better position to take the remaining Larvals that were holding Sunset Shimmer out with a pair of shots. “You don't seem to heed warnings well do you?” Harmony asked casually, throwing the demon away from him and into a column. “Well it doesn't matter now. Because it's time for the climax.” Ambition staggered to his feet, rounding on Harmony as he holstered his weapon. A lavender aura began to surround his body, coalescing and concentrating itself around his right leg. The demon, sensing danger staggered backwards as Harmony continued concentrating, the energy that was building continued to form around that leg. At the same time four larger magical contrails formed a magic circle underneath where Ambition was standing, creating the same symbol that Harmony had peppered throughout his costume which prevented him from moving. Sunset Shimmer could feel the size of the cosmic powers that flowed towards this hero even before the fight could truly say it was beginning. It was like he was going to take it seriously, and even before the rider swung his right leg back, she knew what was going to happen. “No... What are you doing? No wait, stop! Please!” Ambition whimpered, getting on his knees as the magical tendrils now flew back to Harmony. “And now the finisher. Harmonize the Magic.” Harmony commanded. “Rider Final Strike is online. Rider Kick Access Granted.” A digital voice replied calmly as Harmony took a deep breath. Sunset Shimmer could only watch as the masked hero leapt into the air and swung his leg into Ambition's face, knocking several teeth out in the process before a huge explosion of light and sound filled the cafeteria. As the light finally died down, Sunset Shimmer could see that she was sitting in the cafeteria on the floor with her friends, everything seemingly unscathed. As they all woke up a breath of relief escaped her lips. “S-Sunset? What happened?” Rainbow Dash asked, rubbing her head as she and Applejack helped each other and Rarity up. Pinkie and Fluttershy were also getting to their feet as tears filled the teen's eyes. Immediately the other girls ran to her, each with concerned looks on their faces. “What's wrong Sunset? What happened?” Pinkie Pie was the first to ask. “Yeah, you're not hurt are you?” Fluttershy added. “Where's that Ambition feller?” Applejack commented, looking around and seeing no sign of the demon or his cohorts. Before she could get any further however, Sunset Shimmer grabbed her and everyone else together for a big group hug, shocking everyone in the group. “Dear... Are you okay?” Rarity asked, watching Sunset Shimmer sob audibly. “Yeah... I'm just glad you're all okay.” She answered, smiling a little. “I don't know what I would do without you girls...” She whispered, loud enough for them to hear. The other teens shared a glance, before smiling and returning the hug- their faces full of warmth. As the group of teenagers began to enjoy their time together, none of them noticed a pair of green malignant eyes watching them from the shadows. “I see... Ambition must have been too weak to corrupt Sunset Shimmer. And now that opportunity is lost. I'll have to look elsewhere then for a suitable member to join out family. And find a replacement capable of dealing with this... Kamen Rider Harmony...” Mysteries Abound, Who's the New Girl Really?Mysteries abound, Who's the New Girl Really? “Ms. Shimmer, could you please explain to the class what the Quadratic Equation is?” Sunset Shimmer smiled, looking up from her desk as everyone in Mrs. Facts Algebra class began to pay attention to her. She smiled, taking a relaxing breath before staring at a triangle drawn on the dry-erase board on the front wall of the room. “Well, the Quadratic Equation is one of three tools that is used to find out how long one side is on a triangle. You can use it for all of the sides, but it is mostly used for the longest side on the triangle.” “Excellent!” Mrs. Facts replied, her dark brown eyes twinkling slightly as she turned her back on the class. “Now as Sunset explained, the Quadratic Equation can be used to find out the sides of the triangle that you do not know. But does anyone know what the formula is for the equation? Anyone?” The door that led out into the hallway was opened. Calmly a set of footsteps could be heard as the rest of the class looked up from the lesson on the board. Standing in the doorway was a lavender skinned girl with long purple hair with a pink streak a pair of violet eyes with a purple skirt and a blue top and purple go-go boots. On the skirt was a rose colored six-pointed star that rested against a white six-pointed star with smaller, similar stars around it. The girl stepped forward, grabbing a free marker from the dry-erase board and wrote out something on the board, shocking the rest of the class. “The answer is x equals negative b, plus or minus the square root of b squared minus four a multiplied by c all over two a. And it is another way of solving a x squared plus b x plus c. Though it may be the easiest way to solve the missing side, it can get messy and usually isn't recommended to use all of the time.” The class remained silent, out of shock as the girl placed the dry erase marker back on the board. She picked it back up however, along with the eraser, and erased a small portion of a previous answer given before filling it out with a much cleaner script than what was presented. “I'm sorry, but that just kind of bugged me. That last problem with factoring could have been done so much easier, and it's a good thing that I'm here to point that out. It's fixed now.” She finished, setting the eraser and the marker back down on the dry erase board. “Young lady... who are you and what are you doing here in my class?” Mrs. Facts asked, eyeing the strange girl closely. “Oh!” The girl gasped, blushing slightly. “I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to be so rude.” She said, opening the purple backpack that was on her back before riffling through it and pulling out a sheet of paper. After a few moments she passed it over to the teacher, who looked over it and nodded. “Class, I'd like to introduce you to your... new classmate.” She said quietly, looking back up at the teenager. “Hello everyone. My name is Twilight Sparkle, and I'm glad to be a part of your class.” The girl said with a smile. “I hope that we can get along!” Silence fell harshly on the classroom as Twilight looked around. No one seemed to register that she was a new member of the class, let alone get past the clean up she did on the board. After a few moments, Mrs. Facts smiled, walking towards the lavender girl and the class. “Now... That was an, interesting introduction wasn't it class?” She asked, still receiving no response. “Eh-heh-heh-heh, Twilight, why don't you sit there, in that desk-” Her hand pointed to an empty desk behind where Sunset Shimmer sat, “And we'll get back to today's assignment okay?” As Twilight Sparkle walked to her seat, Sunset Shimmer watched the rest of the class talk amongst each other in hushed whispers. Some of them even turning their gaze at Sunset Shimmer herself before silencing at the sound of Mrs. Facts slapping the dry-erase board. The class all returned back to attention, before the math teacher turned her back on them. “Now, before Twilight came in, we were discussing the Quadratic Equation yes? Lets see who can solve this one.” She began, drawing another triangle on the board. Sunset Shimmer rolled her eyes, somehow knowing that class just got a whole lot longer. “I heard about what happened.” Lust remained quiet, her face glued to a screen as the pictures of a red-suited warrior appeared on the screen. She could feel the presence of another one of the Defiled, however it was not as new as Ambition's was. “Ambition was just weak. He didn't have the strength to take his target down with interference.” Lust answered, spinning around on the Library rolling chair. The being that was behind her smirked, a gentle, “Clink” in her steps as it advanced into the light, changing with a dark brownish aura. Before her eyes was a dark purple male with a small frame and blue hair. The uniform-like shirt and pants that he wore were well pressed and cleaned to perfection as a pair of black dress shoes completed his well presented look. Lust could see a mischievous glint in his eyes as the teen bowed in her direction. “Mistress Lust, I don't see a reason to be alarmed.” The teen said calmly. “I know my target, and I know her weaknesses. She craves what I can give, and I can corrupt her before our little problem gets even bigger.” Lust shook her head, rising from the rolling chair. “Covetous, don't underestimate this... Kamen Rider. We don't know what he's totally capable of yet, and have no idea the extent of his powers. Keep a low profile, and strike only when your sure that your target is alone. Is that clear?” The teen known as Covetous bowed again. “Of course Mistress. There is nothing that I wouldn't do to get a chance to add a member to our folds.” He smiled, rising from his bow before taking a half-step backwards, almost disappearing with the shadows. “We'll have a newer member to the family that will replace the one we lost when Ambition fell. I promise you that.” Lust said nothing as Covetous disappeared from sight, turning on her heel and returning her gaze to the screen. “See that you don't. I don't want another incident on our hands. Our master isn't... As forgiving as I am.” She thought, looking over the title on the screen that was labeled: “Kamen Rider”. “So then what happened?” As soon as the Lunch bell rang, Sunset Shimmer dashed to the Cafeteria as soon as she could, meeting up with Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie halfway. After telling them about what had happened in her Algebra class, the flaming haired teen was retelling the story to Rarity, Applejack and Fluttershy. “She just sat down and went quiet.” Sunset Shimmer replied. “I didn't hear anything from her.” She stopped, watching as the girl in question quickly finished her lunch before calmly placing the tray onto a pile nearby and dashing out of the lunchroom. “She seems like... Like- Like the exact opposite of Princess Twilight?” Rarity asked. Sunset Shimmer blinked. “Ah don' see it Rarity.” Applejack replied. “Come on, you surely must have a finer eye for detail than that.” Rarity replied, as the other girls remained silent. “You mean you didn't notice? The way she carried herself, the way she dressed! Heck, there's even the way that she sounded in Sunset Shimmer's story!” There was a loud slam from the doors at the other end of the Cafeteria which caused everyone to look up. “ALL RIGHT, WHERE IS SHE?” Silence echoed throughout the room as the speaker stepped forward, a light bluish-green teenager with golden hair and golden eyes that wore a pair of golden yellow sneakers with a turquoise jacket and white pants, scanning the crowd like a being possessed. “Where's that little traitor who got me kicked off of the squad?” Rainbow Dash stood up, glaring at the speaker. “I didn't get you kicked off the squad Lightning Dust. You did that to yourself when you hurt my friends.” The pair of teenagers cleared the cafeteria in a matter of seconds as several students got out of their way, throwing punches at each other, connecting with their respective fists before stopping. No one said a word, and none of the teachers in the room made a move to stop them either as both girls stood in the middle of the room, glaring at each other. “You always did have that fist that could break anything Dash.” Lightning Dust complimented. “And you were always the hot headed jerk Dust. But you got through it I see.” Rainbow Dash countered, lowering her fist as Lightning Dust did the same. Sunset Shimmer rose, watching with curiosity as both Lightning Dust and Rainbow Dash walked back over towards the table where they sat at, arms wrapped around each others shoulders like friends until they sat down. “Girls, I think you remember Lightning Dust?” Rainbow Dash asked, looking around as the others save for Sunset Shimmer nodded. “Yeah, your that one feller who tried ta git Dash kicked off of the squad.” Applejack said darkly. “Well things change don't they?” Lightning Dust replied, putting a hand behind her head. “They don't when you nearly beat your supposed best friend half to death.” Rarity countered. “That was us just taking out our aggressions against each other. Nothing too personal.” “Okay what about rigging the supply room in the Gym in sophomore year to have the ball lockers fall on me when I went in to get Party Supplies?” Pinkie Pie snapped, glaring at Lightning Dust. “Well I admit that was a little crazy, but no hard feelings right?” Lightning Dust asked. “Oh well then what about the time- Okay guys, enough with the drilling.” Rainbow Dash said calmly, taking a deep breath. “She's changed, some of the Junior Varsity members can vouch for her. Heck, even Coach Spitfire can actually vouch for her.” “But she's still- I'm still what?” Lightning Dust snapped, cutting Pinkie Pie off. “I know I'm an ass, but I'm trying to get passed that. I was just here visiting a friend.” She sighed, getting negative glances from each of her friends before shaking her head. “You know, it's whatever. Listen, Dash I'm gonna need some practice for the upcoming Junior Varsity Game this weekend. You think that you can help me with that?” “Practice? Lightning Dust, your the best player on the Junior Varsity team!” Rainbow Dash nearly shouted. “I know... Look, I don't think that I'm good enough for the game and I wanna go against a Varsity player. Come on, you gotta help me.” Lightning Dust begged, clapping her hands together and dropping to her knees on the floor. “I'm serious here, we lose this game it's gonna be on my head.” Sunset Shimmer watched as Rainbow Dash began to sweat, seeing from the corner of her eye as everyone else there had ranging looks of disapproval towards the cyan athlete. However, as disapproving as everyone else was being, Lightning Dust could be sympathized with. “I dunno, you know what everyone else here thinks about you right?” Rainbow Dash asked quietly, as Sunset Shimmer saw her nod. “Yeah... I was kinda rough wasn't I?” She asked. “Rough doesn't even begin to- I think that she's being sincere.” The whole table fell silent, turning towards Sunset Shimmer as she spoke up. The flaming headed teen smiled a little, though it was slightly masked underneath her firm look. “What ever do you mean Sunset?” Rarity asked. “Yeah, she's just gonna be mean and try to get Dashie kicked off of the soccer team- I am not!” Lightning Dust snapped, cutting Pinkie Pie off. “Look, Dash, if you want to help me practice I'll be outside at the soccer fields after school. Come and find me if you want to help our team win against South Central.” With that she stood up, storming off and leaving the others at the table. “Lightning Dust, wait!” Rainbow Dash shouted, getting to her feet. She stopped, turning towards the rest of the group before shaking her head. “You guys can really be jerks sometimes.” She said finally before chasing after Lightning Dust. Silence fell over the table as Rainbow Dash left, forcing the mood and the temperature nearby to fall by several degrees. “You guys were being too hard on her.” Sunset Shimmer said finally, looking at the doors that Rainbow Dash and Lightning Dust disappeared behind. “But you must understand Sunset, Lightning Dust and Rainbow Dash have... Well...” Rarity began, trying to find the words that wouldn't come to her. “They have a history together.” Fluttershy whispered, looking up from her empty lunch tray. A single tear escaped from her eye as Pinkie Pie put an arm around her shoulder, comforting the timid girl as she began to speak. “Before any of us met, Lightning Dust and Rainbow Dash were almost the closest of friends. Even before she met me, Dash and Dust were two of a trio that were infamous for schooling all of the rival kickball teams back in elementary school.” “Trio? I thought it was just Lightning Dust and Rainbow Dash.” Sunset Shimmer said quietly. “Well, you see Rainbow Dash also had another friend in one of the toughest, meanest girls in school – Gilda Griffin.” Pinkie said quietly as Fluttershy shuddered in her arm, trembling as tears ran down her face. “Gilda was almost as bad as Lightning Dust now, but it was like they were sisters. You know completely inseparable.” Rarity passed a handkerchief to Fluttershy who used it to dry her eyes before picking up where Pinkie left off. “Well, something happened between the two of them that broke Lightning Dust. None of us except for Rainbow Dash know what had happened, but something happened to Gilda which caused Lightning Dust to snap. I won't point any fingers or name any names but, Lightning Dust looked up to Gilda as a role model, almost like Rainbow Dash does to the Soarin' and Spitfire.” “You mean the sports coaches for Canterlot High?” Sunset Shimmer asked, watching Rarity nod. “Ah heard a rumor that Gilda got into an accident, an' picked a fight with the wrong person.” Applejack said quietly. “Though Ah can't be fer sure.” “Listen guys, you do realize that you're giving me a second chance right? The girl who went all Diabolical Demon Super villain chick who wanted to take over another dimension?” Sunset Shimmer asked, watching everyone else at the table nod. “Well then maybe whatever Lightning Dust did is probably forgivable in its own right as well.” “Darling I don't think that would be possible.” Rarity replied. “And why not?” Sunset Shimmer asked. “She probably blames us for what happened...” Fluttershy whispered, now leaning on Pinkie Pie's shoulder as the Pink teen held her close. Sunset Shimmer shook her head, standing up and turning towards the door. “Look you guys may not like her, but I'm going to go see what the real problem is.” She declared, stretching slightly. “Maybe we'll get this all sorted out before too long, and rebuild these bridges that were burnt long ago.” “Sugarcube Ah don't think that's gonna be possible.” Applejack said calmly. “Well it doesn't hurt to try. Pinkie, you might want to put an extra invite out for Twilight's party. Lightning Dust is going to need it.” Sunset Shimmer said confidently. “What are you going to do?” Pinkie asked, feeling Fluttershy look up at the yellow teenager as she started walking out towards the door. “I'm going to do the best I can.” Sunset Shimmer replied within an earshot. “Using what you guys taught me.” The other teens shared an incredulous look with each other, before looking up and watching as Sunset Shimmer sauntered out of the cafeteria and out of sight. None of them said a word before they all jumped to their feet and ran after her, leaving most of their uneaten lunch behind. “I just hope that she knows what she's doing.” Pinkie Pie said quietly. “We all do Pinkie. We all do.” Rarity added, worry filling her voice. Quietly Lightning Dust stood alone, several small tears dripping from her reflection's eyes in the bathroom mirror. “Stupid Rainbow Dash and her stupid friends... She's forgotten all about you. She's, “Moved on,” now that she's hanging out with that group of chicks that really don't give two- “Lightning Dust? You in here?” The teen looked up from the mirror, seeing Rainbow Dash standing in the bathroom doorway, a hand on her hip. “What do you want?” Lightning Dust snapped, watching as Rainbow Dash stepped forward. “I want to help you with practice.” Rainbow Dash said quietly, stepping into the bathroom. “No you don't, your spending time with a bunch of- You've got it all wrong Dust.” Rainbow Dash said, cutting Lightning Dust off. “It wasn't because of them that I wasn't there that day. They wanted me to go, wanted me to help you.” “Well then how come you didn't show?” Rage filled Lightning Dust's eyes as she rounded on Rainbow Dash. “I thought that we were a team? You know, the Screaming Eagles? The best things that ever happened to the school district?” “We still are Dust.” Rainbow Dash said quietly, several tears forming in her eyes. “If you would just listen- No you listen Dash.” Lightning Dust snapped. “They're holding you back. And if you can't see it that way then there's only going to be one Screaming Eagle. And she's going to go down in a blaze of glory.” She snapped, storming out of the bathroom only to have Rainbow Dash grab her arm. “Dust, don't do this.” Rainbow Dash said calmly. “Remember the good times we had together. We're friends forever remember?” Lightning Dust rolled her eyes and wrenched her arm from Rainbow Dash's grasp. “Like I said, if you can't see it that they're holding you back then I'm going to go down alone.” She hissed. “And its going to be your fault.” With that she stormed out of the bathroom, leaving Rainbow Dash alone. The cyan teen sighed, her chest hurt as though Lightning Dust's words were a slap to the face. She turned to leave, only to meet the eyes of her friends, each of them giving her a comforting gaze. “You guys...” “It's the nerves getting to her.” Sunset Shimmer said quietly, turning towards Lightning Dust's retreating form. “How long's it been since her first major game?” “Almost a year.” Rainbow Dash replied, stepping out of the bathroom. “She needs help, and I don't want to see her crumble. You guys understand right?” She asked, watching each of the other teens nod. “Great, well then you heard her. We need to help her practice.” And with that she dragged them off towards the Soccer field. “Excuse me?” The Library, which Sunset Shimmer had insisted they go to during their free period before school was over, was one of the few places where raising one's voice was common and was one of the places where she figured to help Lightning Dust give a leg-up on the competition for Saturday's game. While Rainbow Dash Applejack and Pinkie Pie had class, she Rarity and Fluttershy were busy scouring the sports section to get tips on how to improve ones soccer game. This plan was interrupted when someone started shouting from the other end of the hall. “I'm sorry young lady, but there's nothing I can do. We don't have anything for- But what about standards? What about the Dewey Decimal System? Where is the organization?” The three teens looked up watching Twilight Sparkle, who was completely livid at the moment, berate and yell at Page Turner, one of the Student Librarians in charge of the Library. Page Turner was currently trying to make herself as small as possible, her tan skin blushing furiously as Twilight continued to shout at her, which caused Sunset Shimmer to stand up. “Hey, leave her alone.” She snapped, causing the raging teenager to look up. Sunset Shimmer could see fire in her eyes, almost if it were an insult to human decency for her not to yell at the defenseless librarian. “It's not her fault the organization is the way it is. You got a problem, take it up with Mr. Stroke.” “Sunset... What are you doing?” Fluttershy whispered. “That's a question I myself would like to ask.” Twilight snapped, glaring at Sunset Shimmer. “You would stand up for someone who commits atrocities to the written word?” She snapped, pulling out a book that appeared to be recently dried from being chewed on, with some of the teeth marks still visible. “It's not her fault that she wasn't here when that book got damaged.” Sunset Shimmer replied, looking down at the title: Historical Facts about the Lone West: Battles Fought in 1839, before shaking her head. “It's not even like someone needs that book anyways. We're long since past that.” “Long since past that... LONG SINCE PAST THAT?” Twilight roared, slamming the book down on the desk. Steam fumed from her ears as she turned on her heel. She appeared to be thinking something until a smile crept onto her face. “Well then, I must apologize Ms. Turner.” She said, a certain forced joy on her face. “I didn't really mean to be so rude. It was uncalled for.” “I-It's o-o-okay. M-My mistake...” Page Turner whispered, relaxing slightly. Twilight turned, her back facing the Librarian and Sunset Shimmer as a smile graced her face. “Don't worry, this Library and the true path to harmony are connected. You can make it work out if you reorganize. However, it won't be easy and you will struggle. But soon you too can stand in the sun.” Before either of them had a chance to react, Twilight Sparkle left them as she nearly skipped out the Library door. “What was that about?” Rarity asked, walking up to Sunset Shimmer. “I don't know Rarity. Something's off about this world's Twilight Sparkle, and I don't know what.” Sunset Shimmer replied. “We got everything to help Rainbow Dash with Lightning Dust's practice session?” She asked. “Of course. As much as it pains me to say it, but you were right about Lightning Dust.” Rarity replied. “I just hope that she's okay with the rest of us helping her.” Fluttershy whispered, as Sunset Shimmer turned around and smiled. “It's going to be fine you guys. We're just going to give her a push in the right direction.” Sunset Shimmer replied with a smirk. “Besides, that's going to be the easy part. What I'm more worried about is this world's Twilight Sparkle. Why would she mention the, “True path to harmony,”? It's not like she's a speaker for it in the first place.” Lightning Dust sat alone, her study hall class quiet and empty as everyone else left to go home. Rainbow Dash had told her in the only class that they shared together, English, that she had something special planned for practice which caused the teenager's face to brighten significantly. “Wonder what Dash has planned?” Lightning Dust thought, twiddling a pencil in her fingers as she stared blankly at the ceiling. “It can't be anything less than awesome from my fellow Screaming Eagle.” There was a cough, which caused her to look up, her eyes narrowing as she did so. “Well well well. I thought that athletes spent their time on the soccer field.” A grainy voice said from the doorway. The owner of the voice, a scrawny looking dark purple teen that wore a near-business suit minus the sport jacket stepped forward, his blue hair taking on a wild appearance as he stepped forward. “But then again, there's the thing about being an athlete, they don't care about anything except getting better,” He smirked, his eyes narrowing as Lightning Dust rose from her seat. “Especially when the athlete is a being with such skill as you my dear.” “Who are you.” Lightning Dust said firmly. “What do you want?” The teen chuckled, advancing slowly on Lightning Dust as she backed up, giving the stranger plenty of room. “Oh my dear Lightning Dust, I hope that I do not frighten you. You see, I am a part of a very selective club and we want you to join our Soccer team.” “Soccer Club? You don't look like your a part of the Wondercolts.” Lightning Dust snapped, watching the stranger laugh a little. “Oh my dear, you don't know a manager when you see one?” The teen asked, snapping his fingers as a briefcase and a card appeared in a blaze of fire on a desk at Lightning Dust's right. “I can give you the power that you crave. However, you just need to sign this card and everything will be squared away.” Lightning Dust picked up the card, looking it over and flipping it over in her hand. It was all black and covered in dark, blood red writing which unnerved the athlete. The briefcase on the desk was also an unnerving black, and seemed to radiate a miasma of something foul that she couldn't put her finger on. “The Chaotic Arms Soccer Team?” Lightning Dust read, looking across the top of the card. “What do you guys do exactly?” “We are the number one team in the state, with players hailing from every school in every county.” The teenager replied, his smile getting more and more crooked. “We have everyone except for you, and without you, our team cannot go national.” Lightning Dust turned her back on the teen, continuing to look over the card. “And why do you need me? I'm just a Junior Varsity Soccer player.” “Because you are special my dear.” The, “Representative,” replied watching Lightning Dust shrug. “You have a thirst for acceptance that I haven't seen in all my long years of maintaining contacts for the club. Don't you want to be better than this? Don't you want to have what your friends have? What Rainbow Dash has?” Lightning Dust stopped, a chill ran down her spine as she turned back towards the representative. “I never told you anything about Rainbow Dash.” “I prefer to get... Extensive background information on potential clients before inviting them to join our organization.” The representative replied. “Like how I know in the third grade you wet yourself during the talent show trying and abysmally failing to sing the National Anthem where as Rainbow Dash took the best action for reenacting her favorite super hero moment. Or how about the time that you failed try-outs for the middle school Varsity team and took out your rage on Fluffle Puff, who happened to be nearby and tried to extend the hand of friendship to you.” “Stop it, that's not who I am.” Lightning Dust snapped, glaring at the representative. “Or how about the time during the last Fall Formal you dumped one Lightning Dawn, an exchange student from another school district, into the dumpster because you thought that it would be funny? Maybe I could recollect the time you threw Sweetie Belle into the lockers in Gym Class, leaving her trapped in there for a whole day?” “Stop! I didn't mean any of those things, I was just an- Angry? Well that's an excellent quality to have on this team my dear.”The Representative interrupted, his crooked smile growing to an inhuman size which forced Lightning Dust to step back. “A soul that's as stained as yours is, would make this team invincible!” The look in his eyes turned into nothing short of something manic, striking a touch of fear in Lightning Dust which caused her to drop the card in her hands. “What about the time you beat Rainbow Dash senseless? All because youACK!” A soccer ball smacked the representative in the head, causing him to bowl over. Lightning Dust blinked, seeing Rainbow Dash behind him as the soccer ball returned to her hands, resting calmly on her hip. “Dude, if the girl says to stop, she means stop. It's not your business.” She smirked as the representative staggered towards the wall, giving Lightning Dust a chance to run towards the rainbow haired teen. “Dash, what are you doing here?” Lightning Dust asked. “I was just here to get you Dust.” Rainbow Dash replied, smirking a little. “Can't let one of the Eagles down.” Lightning Dust smiled, rushing over to where Rainbow Dash was before turning towards the representative. “Yeah, sorry buddy but I'm not interested.” She snapped, causing him to turn before ripping the card in half. “Let's go Dash. Maybe get some practice in before we have to go.” Rainbow Dash nodded, taking Lightning Dust's arm and wrapping her in a hug as they walked out the door. “So, we've got some major practice to do this week before the big game in a couple of days.” Rainbow Dash said, leading Lightning Dust down the hall towards the Soccer fields. “So, you ready to whip South Central?” “Yeah!” Lightning Dust cheered. “I can't hear you!” Rainbow Dash said, smiling as she got to the door, “Are you ready to whip South Central?” “All right Dash, I'm ready. Let's just get this pr- NO ONE REFUSES ME!” Both teenagers turned and let out shrieks of terror. Behind them was a suit of metal armor, or at least that's what the figure looked like under the pulsing veiny skin that covered most of its body. A pair of blood red eyes peered from out of the helmet, which was reminiscent of a Roman Centurion's, as the creature wielded a blood red crossed battle axe one would find decorating a heavy metal album cover. The beast's blood red cape fluttered behind it as it's other arm, which appeared to be melted into the form of a jagged blade, pointed directly at them. “D-D-Dash...” Lightning Dust stammered, staring at the beast in front of them. “W-W-What is that?” “I don't know, but heck if we're going to stay here and find out!” Rainbow Dash answered, taking Lightning Dust by the hand and bolting through the now open door. “YOU WILL JOIN OUR CAUSE, LIGHTNING DUST!” The beast roared, chasing after the pair with his axe held high. “There, now are all the balls ready for practice Pinkie?” Rarity asked. “Yepperoony! Are the Drinks ready to go Applejack?” Pinkie asked, looking up from her pile of soccer balls towards Applejack who was busy setting apple cider and lemonade on the table. “'Course they ahre Pinkie. Ready with the extra goals 'Shy?” Applejack asked. “Yeah, I've made it just like Rainbow Dash wanted us too.” She looked up to Sunset Shimmer, who was presently dragging another mock-goal from the shed. “We just need one more goal post set and we'll be ready isn't that right Sunset Shimmer?” The flaming haired teen nodded, dragging the post into position before securing it with a relieved grunt. After wiping the sweat from her brow, Sunset Shimmer looked around, smiling as everything was going exactly according to plan. “Now all we need are Rainbow Dash and Lightning Dust and we can get this practice started.” She said walking over to the drink stand that Applejack had set up and grabbing a bottle of cider that the cowgirl passed her. “It was nice a Coach Soarin' ta let us use the soccer field fer practice.” Applejack commented, watching as Sunset Shimmer guzzled half of the bottle. “Speakin' of practice... Where's Rainbow Dash and Lightning Dust? They should be here by now.” “Rainbow Dash is probably trying really really hard to patch things up with Lightning Dust.” Pinkie Pie replied, hope in her voice. “Maybe we should too I mean- WOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAH, GANG WAY!” The voice of Rainbow Dash could be heard clear from the soccer field as she and Lightning Dust appeared to be bolting as fast as they could from what could only be described as an ancient soldier made of skin. The girls all looked up, some gasping in shock as more Larvals followed the creature as it pursued the pair onto the pitch. They stopped, gulping audibly as several Larvals all appeared behind the group, their eyes appearing hungry to the human teenagers. “Dash, what did you do?” Rarity exclaimed as the group of beasts surrounded them. “Hey, its not her fault that they're after me.” Lightning Dust replied, as the group formed a circle around her. “Besides, I don't need you guys- We've kinda dealt with these things before Lightning Dust. Just stay behind us and you'll be fine.” Fluttershy said in a reassuring voice. The soldier stepped forward, knocking several Larvals aside before chuckling audibly. “You think that you can stand in my way?” It said, as a dripping blood red foam left from his mouth. “Please, get out of the way and no one will get hurt. I am Covetous, the Soldier of Power, and Master of Desires! I'm the- Before the soldier could say any more, a soccer ball slammed into his head, knocking him sideways and staggering him. He turned, a snarl building in his throat which stopped at what he saw. “So, you're him huh?” The demon asked, staring at the figure with interest. “Who me?” The figure who was presently standing near the other goal on the soccer field shrugged, his scarf fluttering in the breeze that picked up from the area. “I'm just a drifter, looking for the true meaning of Harmony.” Kamen Rider Harmony answered, lowering his arms and cracking his knuckles. “Now, let's get this show on the road.” Covetous said nothing, raising his axe high above his head as the Larvals began to charge. Harmony remained where he stood, waiting as the monsters came at him with all intents to kill. “You mean he's going to fight those things?” Lightning Dust asked, just as Harmony and the first Larval met. “It seems that's what he does.” Sunset Shimmer whispered, staring at the scene, watching as the first Larval fell with a quick series of punches to the face. As the first Larval fell, three more tried to gain the upper and bum-rushed Harmony all at once. The masked hero leapt backwards, drawing his weapon in it's pistol form and fired several shots at the three, dropping them instantly before roundhouse kicking a fourth behind him. Two more leapt at him, swinging their claws wildly only to have them blocked by his sword and thrown to the ground. Covetous, who was busy trying to get at Harmony, threw aside three more Larvals before swinging his axe directly at the masked hero. Harmony rolled out of the way just in time, using his momentum to cut through and cleave several other Larvals nearly in half. He then turned, grabbing the now bladed-weapon with both of his hands before charging at Covetous, knocking the soldier off balance with a well timed guard from his blade before kicking him in the gut causing him to slide backwards. “Well now, you are a really good fighter. Something that I'll have to make note of when I take your head as my trophy.” He said confidently, swinging his axe with his free hand only to have it miss completely before stabbing at the masked hero with his other arm. Harmony took the attack in stride, knocking the blade aside before slashing across Covetous' chest, before following it up with another kick that sent him sprawling into a group of Larvals. “Really? You're going to take my head as a trophy?” Harmony scoffed, kicking two more Larvals before converting his blade back into a blaster. The Masked hero then pointed the weapon at several Larvals as they advanced towards Sunset Shimmer and her friends, pulling the trigger as several rays of lavender energy streaked towards their targets, dropping them before the Larvals could turn around. There was a loud roar, which forced Harmony to turn and do a back flip landing just out of reach from Covetous' axe before quickly converting his blaster back into a blade and crossing it with the demonic soldier's own. The soldier's neck audibly cracked as he lifted his axe, the rusted metal blade could be seen from anywhere on the field, but before he could bring it down several goal posts smashed into his side like arrows which knocked him into the air. Harmony, who's top most star on his costume glowed the same Lavender Light, threw his arm out as the same goal posts that were wrapped in the same aura smashed into Covetous a second time. But before they could be picked up for a third time, a wave of red energy split the posts, knocking Harmony back to the ground. Much to the group of teens surprise, the continuous assault of the Goal posts didn't appear to do much to the soldier, leaving him with a couple of bruises. “You may have taken this round Harmony, but next time you won't be so lucky.” Covetous bellowed, staggering off as the remaining Larvals followed suit. Those that were on the ground exploded, leaving plumes of black smoke which rose from their fallen bodies. A wave of relief washed over the teenagers, which caused them to run over to Harmony. “Thanks a bunch!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed, smiling as Harmony turned to face them. “You saved our lives!” Harmony shrugged. “Really now? Didn't I tell you that you should have hightailed it outta here the last time? You don't seem to learn.” Harmony said quietly, turning and walking away. “Wait! Who are you?” Rarity asked, causing Harmony to stop for a moment. “Didn't I say it before?” Harmony asked, an air of cockiness in his voice. “My name doesn't matter. I'm just a drifter in search of the true meaning of Harmony.” Harmony replied, turning away again. “How can we find you though?” Sunset Shimmer asked, causing Harmony to stop. “In case we get into trouble again.” “You had better hope that you don't need my help girls. It would be better off for all of us if we stayed well away from each other.” Harmony replied, before waving his hand off in the air and walking off, leaving them on the soccer field. “Uh... What was that all about?” Rainbow Dash asked, walking over to the others. “I mean, I've heard about being cool and all but this guy wasn't even close to the definition of cool.” “But that's one problem we're just going to have to put under the table for now.” Fluttershy replied, turning towards Lightning Dust as she kicked the soccer ball that hit Covetous in the head to the side and sighed deeply. “She's in grave danger if she's left alone.” “So let's go talk to- I know what you guys are trying to do and you can save it.” Lightning dust snapped, turning away from the group. “It doesn't matter much anyways, I'm not exactly the model of a student and no one would care if we win or lose.” “Dust... You know that's- Save it for the funeral Dash.” Lightning Dust said, cutting Rainbow Dash off. “It doesn't matter, I'm not cut out for this. And you have friends that are a lot better for you then I am.” Several tears were in her eyes as she began to tremble. “It looks like the Screaming Eagles are dead after all.” She whispered, before running off. “Lightning Dust wait!” Rainbow Dash shouted after her retreating form. She stopped, feeling a gentle hand on her shoulder and turned to see Fluttershy's smiling face. “Go after her Dash, she can't be alone.” Fluttershy said quietly, smiling as everyone else nodded in her direction. “Thanks Flutters. You guys, you'll understand right?” Rainbow Dash asked, before turning after Lightning Dust. “Well then I'm off. Pinkie, I'm gonna have to ask you to hold that party until the weekend okay? There's gonna be someone else that I need to invite.” “Okey Dokey Lokie Dashie!” Pinkie Pie replied, giving Rainbow Dash a thumbs up. “You just give me the name when you're done and I'll mail out the invites this Friday.” Rainbow Dash smiled, before beginning to run. “That's a promise!” She shouted, following where Lightning Dust went. “That's a promise. One that I intend to keep.” Heralds of the Defiled, The Avatar of Lust-Several Years ago- Lightning Dust kept running. It was all she had, something that no one else could take away from her. A home away from home. People who were as close to her as one could be without being family. “Lightning Dust your late!” Her voice was harsh, but it was the kind of harsh that seemed to keep to a minimal level. The preteen smiled, looking up at the speaker, her golden eyes wild with excitement. “So Gilda, you goin' to Canterlot High next year?” “Nah, wouldn't want to mess up my reputation with the Griffon's.” She answered. “Mom and Dad are expecting me to go to to Iron Spire, to get my technical degree. But I'm only going for the soccer team.” Lightning Dust and an older teenager, fresh out of middle school who wore a khaki jacket, black t-shirt and khaki jeans with a pair of aviator goggles sat down on the front steps of Canterlot Middle School. The sun was setting in the sky, but the moment seemed like it could last forever. “Rainbow Dash must've really done something stupid to get detention this late.” Gilda commented. “What was that?” Both Gilda and Lightning Dust looked up as Rainbow Dash stood behind them both, her arms folded over each other as a frown filled her face. “I said that you must've done something stupid to get detention this late Dash.” Gilda repeated, sliding over closer to Lightning Dust as Rainbow Dash sat down. “Yeah, well that's what the Principal said.” Rainbow Dash snarled, rolling her eyes. “It wasn't my fault that the stink bomb was there. Honest.” “And that's why you make a bad liar Dash.” Gilda said confidently. “But don't worry, the Screaming Eagles don't need that BS to actually be a good team.” Both Rainbow Dash and Lightning Dust looked to Gilda with confusion written on their faces. “Screaming Eagles?” They repeated. “Yeah, Screaming Eagles.” Gilda said a second time, smiling before standing up. “It's going to be our team name, for when we get into the big leagues.” She turned, seeing the smiling faces of both Rainbow Dash and Lightning Dust. “We're not going to take anything from anybody, and even if they try to make us, we'll kick their asses won't we?” “Yeah!” Both middle schoolers shouted. “Heh, Screaming Eagles then?” Gilda asked extending her hand out in front of the other two. “Screaming Eagles.” Rainbow Dash said, placing her hand on top of Gilda's. “Screaming Eagles forever!” Lightning Dust cheered, placing her hand on top of the others before throwing her hand up with everyone else's. “Well said you guys.” Gilda said, turning her back on them. “Now, let's get some grub and get you home. There's no sense in being in a team when you aren't energized for more.” She said, walking down the steps with both girls in tow. “All Right!” Rainbow Dash shouted. “I finally have a group of friends...” Lightning Dust thought to herself, smiling as Gilda led them off of the school grounds. “Do you see me mommy? I have friends of my own.” “So... the Soldier of Power huh?” “Mistress... I didn't mean to- “Silence.” Lust snapped, rounding on Covetous as they both stood in an empty hallway. “You know how I hate failure, but I am willing to be merciful. Especially...” She paused, raising an eyebrow as a lavender skinned girl ran past an intersecting hallway, her clothing covered in sweat. “Especially since this Kamen Rider Harmony has put a dampener on our plans.” “What is it that you wish to be done about him?” Covetous asked, watching as Lust raised a hand to her lips. “Do not worry about the rider. Your next attack will begin in earnest, so be prepared.” Lust replied, turning back to the flesh-covered soldier. “I'll handle the Rider. You get prepared for your second chance at corrupting the target.” She smiled, taking a few steps into the darkness of the hall before turning her back on Covetous, her eyes turning into a solid green as a ball of emerald flame erupted in front of her. “Oh and Covetous,” “Yes mistress Lust?” Covetous asked, looking hopeful at the teenager's smaller form. “You only get this one chance.” She replied before stepping into the flames and leaving Covetous alone. The demonic-looking soldier reverted back to his human form, wiping the nervous sweat from his brow before stroking his chin slightly. “Mistress Lust is giving me a second chance to take care of Lightning Dust. However I'll need to proceed with caution, she isn't known to give out a third.” He thought before snapping his fingers. “There is a better way though...” He whispered, turning around and leaving the hallway with a smile on his face. It had been a day since the attack, and no one had seen or heard a trace of Lightning Dust the following day. Rainbow Dash was getting more and more worried, drawing concern from everyone else the following day as she sat down. The rainbow haired teen looked up at the cafeteria door constantly, only to jump at the slightest sounds from several students behind her. “Rainbow Dash, it's okay.” Fluttershy said quietly. “We'll find her, we just need to I know I know.” Rainbow Dash snapped, causing Fluttershy to jump from her seat. “S-Sorry. Didn't mean to snap.” She said, blushing a little before retuning to her hawk-like watch on the door. “If you don't mind me asking Rainbow Dash, how did you two become friends?” Sunset Shimmer asked. The cyan teen turned towards Sunset Shimmer as everyone else at the table's interest was piqued. “It's kind of a funny story really...” She said, a faint chuckle escaping her as she ran a hand through her hair. “It's okay if you don't want to say anything.” Rarity said quietly. “No no, its-” Rainbow Dash paused, trying to gather her thoughts as she stared at the ceiling. “It's fine really. I mean, Lightning Dust is in danger and she's... Well... She's like a sister to me you know?” Rainbow Dash paused, her face looking down. “It started back in middle school... -Four years ago, Canterlot Middle School- Crowds of students walked down the halls of Canterlot Middle School. It's well-kept campus grounds shone with a brilliance that made it a pinnacle of learning. As one of the students, a cyan preteen with rainbow hair stood in front of the front doors of the building, a frown on her face as she clutched a battered military camouflage colored bag. My dad had insisted that I took the bag that I carried with me because it helped him in the war. However, it didn't help me on the first day of the Eighth grade as I was the laughing stock of the whole school. The preteen shrugged off the snickering that she heard from the other students around her, stepping forward into the looming building before her. A blush filled her cheeks as she continued her advance towards the one place she called sanctuary for school. She stopped, hearing the sounds of someone crying and turned, seeing a younger version of Lightning Dust being surrounded by several other students in turn. “Look, it's the wild child's bag girls. Didn't know that Barbarism was in this year.” One of them snapped. “Yeah, she's not exactly on the up and up with the latest styles isn't she?” “You know that without any money and a- Hey! Leave her alone!” Some of the upper echelons of the school's society targeted her, and I had to step in. Especially before she got expelled for fighting. Come to find out later that she was only acting out as a result of family problems. Couldn't blame her, after everything that she had been through, It would have been murder just to keep it all in you know? -Several Weeks Later- “Dash, why'd you do it?” Lightning Dust asked, sitting down in a particular part of the cafeteria with Rainbow Dash alone. “Because its what I do.” Rainbow Dash replied. “If there's a lot of guys that pick on the weak around, then there's gotta be just as many guys who stand up for those that can't fight for their own right? It's something that my dad taught me when I was picked on when I was younger.” “This sounds like the same thing that you said to me.” Fluttershy replied, watching as Rainbow Dash nodded. “Hey, it was my go to thing whenever one of my friends got bullied in middle school.” Rainbow Dash replied. “It worked didn't it?” She said, smiling as Fluttershy nodded. “So Lightning Dust was picked on, and you helped her with that problem. What happened next?” Sunset Shimmer asked, watching Rainbow Dash smile a little. The others watched with interest as Rainbow Dash stared up at the ceiling, her eyes twinkling with the thought of the memory. -Halfway through Middle School year- “Come on Dash, we can take'em!” Lightning Dust said confidently, her face filled wide with a smile as Rainbow Dash nodded. “Yeah, five against two? I like those odds!” Rainbow Dash replied, holding a soccer ball in her right hand held high. She planted the ball on the ground, smirking as she did so as the high schoolers looked down on them, cocky grins brimming on their faces. They however didn't seem to want to play soccer. As the first goon lunged for Lightning Dust, a knife in his hand, another soccer ball smashed into his head from behind, knocking the teen to the ground. The group of six looked up, seeing the smiling face of another high schooler who wore a khaki jacket, a black t-shirt, ripped blue jeans with sneakers and had a messy mop of white short hair. Well Half way through the year we met Gilda. She was cool, I mean beyond cool. We were out numbered and out matched, but she didn't care. It was as if fighting was her life-style. She made those dick-heads pay for trying to ambush us. “Dash!” “What Rarity? It's my story. Anywho, a few days passed before we became the most notorious ass-kickers CMS had ever seen.” Rainbow Dash continued, ignoring another huff from Rarity. “So, Dash, Dust, what're your dreams?” Gilda asked, calmly drinking from a bottle of soda she pinched from a nearby soda machine. Both students looked up from their own soda and blinked, having never been asked this kind of question before. “Come on, everyone's gotta have a dream right?” Gilda repeated. Rainbow Dash Smirked. “I wanna be the best at every sport ever!” It was both Gilda and Lightning Dust's turn to give Rainbow Dash a look. “What? I wanna get recognized for my brilliance on the field! Plus, there's no one better at anything sports-related at CMS than I am. I'm just that awesome.” Gilda chuckled, grinning as the three all shared a laugh. “Don't ever change Dash. You're too awesome for that.” She then turned towards Lightning Dust, who began to blush nervously. “So Lightning Dust, what's your dream?” Lightning Dust said nothing, shaking her head as she twiddled her thumbs. After a few moments she looked up, a smile on her face. “I already have my dream. I'm with you guys.” This caused the others to laugh. “Hey! It's not funny!” “Come on Lightning Dust, we're just messin' with you.” Gilda replied, smirking as she lightly punched Lightning Dust in the shoulder. “Heh, so we're your dream huh? That's interesting, but you know you need to have something better. Do you?” She watched Lightning Dust blink, before grinning. “You know, I'm getting a sports team together. Don't know what I'm gonna call it, but that's my dream.” She stood up and pointed towards the sun. “I'm gonna get a group of people together who share the same dream, and we're gonna take the world by storm!” “Awesome G!” Rainbow Dash cheered. “Sounds like it could be fun.” Lightning Dust said confidently, watching as Gilda turned, smirking a little. “So, are you two in? I can't be associated with people who don't give it their all. I need one-hundred and ten percent here.” Gilda asked, watching as both middle schoolers nodded. “Yeah, we're with you G!” Rainbow Dash said confidently. “Of course! Let's kick some ass!” Lightning Dust cheered, smiling as she threw her hand out in between all of them. Both Rainbow Dash and Gilda gave Lightning Dust a look which caused her to shrug. “Look, it's just something I do. Don't ask me why, but it feels like I actually like you guys.” “Not like as in like like right?” Rainbow Dash asked. “No not that way.” Lightning Dust replied. “I mean, you guys are the first friends that I've ever had...” “Well then, let's be the best friends that you ever had. Right Dash?” Gilda asked, as the cyan preteen smiled. “Right, you aren't alone anymore Dust. We're gonna be your friends forever.” Rainbow Dash answered, placing her hand on top of Lightning Dust's Gilda followed suit, rolling her eyes slightly before throwing up their hands together with a cheer. From the look on Lightning Dust's face, Rainbow Dash could swear that she was almost crying “We spent the whole better half of the rest of the school year, trying out other students to join our team.” Rainbow Dash added quietly. “But no one else could keep up with us. We called ourselves the Screaming Eagles because it was what we did whenever we won a game. You guys should have been to our game against South Central. Man those were good times...” The table fell silent as Dash finished speaking, a couple of small tears leaking from her face. After wiping her eyes with a free arm Dash got up and turned to go. “I'm not one for this mushy stuff, so I'll catch you guys later.” She said before running off. “Man, if Ah'dve known that Lightning Dust was like that Ah'dve- We all would have Applejack.” Rarity said quietly. Suspicion drawing across her face. “There is something that I feel that Rainbow Dash is leaving out of this Equation. Something that doesn't fit... I just can't put my finger on it.” “I wouldn't know...” Fluttershy replied, running a hand through her hair. “I never saw Lightning Dust or Rainbow Dash away from each other at all throughout middle school.” They all fell silent, save for Pinkie who was making a noise that sounded like a cross between a grunt and a moan. The pink haired teen scratched her head, blinking slightly before an idea popped into her head which caused her to leap into the air. “I'VE GOT IT!” She shouted, causing everyone in the cafeteria to jump and stare in her direction. “Pinkie, what now?” Rarity asked. The pink teen said nothing, grabbing Fluttershy and dragging her out of the cafeteria much to the shock of everyone. “ I have this really great idea and I need to borrow Fluttershy for a second so I'll see you guys later okay?” She said almost spitting out a literal typhoon of words before disappearing out of sight. Fluttershy said nothing, shock filling her face as she was still trying to process what Pinkie Pie was going to do with her. The three remaining teens shared a glance before looking back after them both. “Does Pinkie Pie... Normally do that?” Sunset Shimmer asked. “Sugarcube, it's just Pinkie Pie bein' Pinkie Pie. She always does that.” Applejack replied, getting up from the table. “Now Ah think we'd better mozy on back to class, seein's how lunch is almost over. So Ah'll see you guys later.” She said before she too left the cafeteria. As Rarity said her goodbyes as well, Sunset Shimmer rubbed her temples in frustration. “But how does that all connect to the Defiled attacking Lightning Dust?” She thought, shaking her head before getting up from the table. “Oh whatever, I'll figure it out later.” She uttered, walking out of the cafeteria alone. Lightning Dust sat alone, her back against the wall. It was her gym period, a time where she would normally shine, but due to the recent encounter with those monsters from the day before, she couldn't think straight. “Come on Lightning Dust! You're better than this!” She snapped mentally, after kicking the ball back to the opposing team a second time. “Is there something wrong Lightning Dust?” The teen looked up, seeing the coach for the Varsity squad of the Canterlot Wondercolts Soccer team and her present Gym teacher Coach Spitfire looking down on her with a gentle face. The coach seemed to radiate cool, her orange eyes beaming down on her through the aviator glasses that she had, but it seemed to be balanced out with the Motherly-like form that she had appeared to radiate with after all of her years of teaching. At least that's what it felt like to Lightning Dust. “N-No coach. E-Everything's fine.” Lightning Dust stammered, watching as Coach Spitfire took a seat on the bleachers next to her. “You aren't still mad about putting you on the junior varsity team are you?” Lightning Dust shook her head. “N-No, why would you say that?” The coach just sighed, as Lightning Dust turned back to the soccer game. “You know why I put you in the Junior Varsity team?” Coach Spitfire asked, meeting the silence of Lightning Dust head on. “It was because you were a great player. Wait what?” Lightning Dust asked, returning her attention back to the Coach. “I'm serious Dust, you're a great soccer player.” Coach Spitfire replied. “Good enough to be in Varsity.” “But then why- Because the members of Junior Varsity need someone to look up to.” Lightning Dust gasped, her heart now beating in her throat as the Coach smiled. She turned back to the game watching as one of the students, a cornflower yellow haired gray teen, leap into the air and blocked an offending shot from the soccer ball before landing heavily on her but. Two others, one with rose colored skin and rose colored hair and another with bright mint green and white hair with mint green skin both helped the girl up before charging down the field after the rest of the soccer team. “But-but I- I put you on the Junior Varsity team to inspire the rest of them. It was something that I felt was lacking.” Coach Spitfire replied, getting up from her spot on the bench as the mint-green teen put the ball through the opposing net. “I've seen how you were in practice, and I've gotta say we wouldn't be where we are now had you not gotten here. Lyra, Derpy, Berry, they're all good in they're own rights but with you, you're a natural leader. Someone to rally behind.” Coach Spitfire smiled and placed a gentle hand on Lightning Dust's shoulder. “Whoever you were before you joined up doesn't matter much anymore. You are that spark that gives the others the motivation to win. Just believe in yourself. That's what it takes.” Lightning Dust said nothing as Coach Spitfire removed her hand from her shoulder, blowing deeply into the whistle that she had. “It's just like... Just like she said before...” Lightning Dust thought quietly. The teen stood up, just as the rest of the class began to head in for the rest of school and smiled in Coach Spitfire's direction. “Thanks Coach. That meant a lot.” She said, following her classmates into the locker rooms. “Though there's still something that I have to do.” -Several Years ago- “Where were you?” Rainbow Dash stood alone, looking down at the ground as several cop-cars and an ambulance were nearby. Lightning Dust stood in front of her, face full cuts and bruises, but it was primarily full of tears. “I was... I'm- No Dash, don't even get started with me. I know what you're gonna try to say and you can save it.” Lightning Dust snapped. “I counted on you. Gilda counted on you, and you did nothing! Nothing!” “But-But I'm sorry! Really I am!” “Sure you are Dash. Just like how you're sorry about leaving us behind for that group of popular- They aren't that popular!” Dash snapped, cutting Lightning Dust off. “Sure Rarity is with the in crowd but- “Sure seems like she's popular to me.” The other teen snapped. “Now if you'll excuse me I have a friend to look after. After all, Screaming Eagles never leave others out in the rain.” Lightning Dust snapped, turning towards the Ambulance and climbing in the back before it drove off. Rainbow Dash didn't look up, but she knew she screwed up. She really did. -Back in present day- The cyan teen rolled her eyes, clutching yet another barely passed science quiz in her hands. “Man with grades like this, I'll never get the chance to go pro.” She turned a corner heading down a random hall in the direction of her next class, not paying any attention to anything except her paper. “Man... I'm gonna have to get a tutor at this rate...” She moaned, stopping at the dark green door and opening it after a second. After shoving the quiz into the ever-growing pile of papers that was the inside of her locker, Rainbow Dash watched as from out of the corner of her eye a tiny note drifted out from the top of the pile, landing on the ground face-up. “What's this?” She asked, shutting her locker with a loud, “BANG,” before picking up the page. “It's from Lightning Dust. Wonder what she could want?” She thought, skimming the page. Rainbow Dash, Need to meet up. Gotta practice, want a little more one on one. Would like to apologize, and would love to hang out. Meet at Whitetail Park after school, five o'clock. Bring your A game, because we're gonna need it. Lightning Dust The teen blinked, a smile creeping up on her face. “So... She wants to actually practice then? Cool, I haven't played a game against Lightning Dust in a while!” She thought, turning around before bumping into someone and getting thrown to the ground. “HEY!” Rainbow Dash snapped, looking up and seeing the smiling face of a dark red teen wearing an all blue muscle shirt with jeans shorts. “Oh, uh sorry about that. Didn't see where I was going.” The teen replied, extending a hand and missing Dash as she stood up on her own. “I can get up on my own thanks.” Dash snapped, picking up her bag and looking up at the nearby clock. “Shoot, if I miss class I'm gonna have you to blame!” She snapped, running off and leaving the teen by himself. He looked down at the crumpled page of paper in his fist before smiling a second time. “Oh, don't worry about class...” He whispered, uncrumpling the page and reading over it. “That's the least of your worries.” He said before chuckling quietly, a small flame igniting in his hands and disintegrating the page before walking off. “I would be more concerned about finding your friend before I do. But that's just me personally.” He thought, casually strolling on down the hall with a wicked smile on his lips. Whitetail Park was one of the nicer, friendlier parks that made the county so notable. Even as the sun continued to set against the horizon of tall skyscrapers, the lush canopy of trees seemed to filter a beautiful array of sunlight, making the whole place feel serene. There was hardly any litter, several of the groundskeepers worked in tandem with Canterlot High's beautification committee, and whatever trash there was never stayed there for long. Lightning Dust sat against a park bench nearest to one of the open fields in the park, a place in particular that she had rather enjoyed. Her eyes drifted down towards the soccer ball at her feet, and she gave a conscious shudder. “What if she doesn't show?” She thought, nervously checking her watch which stated the time to be four minutes to five. “I told her five, but that doesn't mean- “HEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEYYYYY!” Lightning Dust jumped at the shout and wheeled around, seeing Rainbow Dash's smiling face. “Rainbow Dash, over here!” She said excitedly as the rainbow haired teen ran to where she stood. “You're here early. What happened?” “Well, I wanted to apologize for the other day.” Rainbow Dash explained, wrapping Lightning Dust in a hug. “I mean, I didn't know how you would react to my other friends and there were those monsters and- Look Dash it's okay.” Lightning Dust replied, passing the soccer ball to the teen with her feet. Dash smiled, before beginning to dribble the ball as both she and Lightning Dust made it out into the middle of the field. “I just wanna know if you brought your A game like I asked.” “Oh I brought my A game all right...” Dash whispered, causing Lightning Dust to give her a curious look. “Oh... Uh yeah! Of course I brought my A game!” Rainbow Dash said, grinning as she passed the ball to Lightning Dust. “So let's play!” As Lightning Dust received the ball, The teen stared suspiciously at Rainbow Dash before making her way towards the goal. Dash smiled, beginning to chase after her as the game began. Dust, who had gained a significant lead in distance stopped and readied her shot only to be tripped out by Dash before falling to the ground. “What the heck was that for?” Lightning Dust snapped, watching as Rainbow Dash smiled, kicking the ball away towards the opposite goal. “All right, time to amp up my game.” Lightning Dust thought, getting up and chasing after the cyan teen. Dash said nothing, stopping only for a moment before launching the ball like a ballistic missile at the opposing goal. Lightning Dust could only watch as the ball hit the metal edge of the goal post and ricocheted over their heads. Lightning Dust turned, charging back towards the ball as it rolled to a stop at the edge of the field. “Rainbow Dash never misses a shot...” Lightning Dust thought quietly, picking up the ball and turning around only dropping it seconds later to find Rainbow Dash standing directly in her personal space with a smile on her face that would mistake her for a serial killer. “WHOA, Dash that's not funny!” She shouted, leaping backwards in surprise. “What's really funny is how easy this is.” Rainbow Dash, replied, taking a step forward. “Uh... Heh heh heh... Dash, what are you doing?” Lightning Dust asked, backing up enough for her to have room to run. “What? I was just saying how easy it is to throw you off of your game. That's all.” Rainbow Dash said cheerfully, watching as Lightning Dust narrowed her eyes. “Come on, let's get back to the game.” She said, stepping forward and taking the ball from Lightning Dust's hands. As Rainbow Dash kicked the ball back towards what Lightning Dust assumed was her goal, the teen watched Rainbow Dash's form as she charged towards the ball like a bullet train. “Something's off about Rainbow Dash... Something's totally off...” She thought, before running after her. “Oh man I'm totally late!” Rainbow Dash shouted, charging down the hill that led towards Whitetail Park. After bumping into that teen in front of her locker, and subsequently getting to class after the bell had rung, the teacher had to make her stay after school had ended and forced her to spend an hour helping her reorganize one of the shelves in the library. Sure there was this crazy lavender colored girl who spent most of the time talking about the, “Dewey Decimal System,” or whatever it was in her ear but she didn't get anything done. By the time Rainbow Dash was finished it was almost five, and she had to run the whole way there. “I-huff-hope that-huff-Lightning Dust is okay-pant-and I didn't miss her!” Rainbow Dash breathed, continuing her run towards the park. As soon as she got there she stopped, watching as Lightning Dust was playing with her. Or at least it was her. There was something off about the way the other Rainbow Dash was playing against Lightning Dust, it seemed too aggressive. As for every time Lightning Dust made to kick the ball, “Rainbow Dash,” slide tackled her to the ground before kicking the ball in the opposite direction. After the fourth time that Lightning Dust hit the dirt of the soccer field, Rainbow Dash stepped forward. “HEY!” She snapped, her cheeks burning red as both Lightning Dust and her double turned towards her. “Rainbow... Dash?” Lightning Dust asked, appearing horribly confused. “Yeah, it's me.” Rainbow Dash replied, watching as Lightning Dust turned towards the other Rainbow Dash on the field. “Well then who's this?” Lightning Dust asked, as a deep growl emanated from the other Rainbow Dash. Both teens turned, watching in horror, as the fake Rainbow Dash disappeared with a wave of black flames as the demonic knight Covetous took her place with a mighty laugh. “So, you finally decide to show up huh?” Covetous asked, his eyes narrowing. “It took you long enough.” “D-D-Dash?” Lightning Dust stammered, staggering backwards as Covetous tried to grab her with his free hand, the head of the axe buried into the ground. The teen let out a shrill cry as he finally grabbed her, smiling as Lightning Dust struggled in his grip. “Trust me honey, You're not going anywhere.” Covetous snapped, smirking as Rainbow Dash charged forward. “Let her go!” Rainbow Dash snapped, leaping into the air at Covetous only to get knocked back by another wave of black energy. Dash staggered to her feet and started to run a second time only to stop as Covetous' bladed hand was pointed directly at Lightning Dust's throat. “I wouldn't try charging at me a second time Miss Dash.” Covetous challenged, his voice ringing out as it filled with superiority. “I mean, not unless you wish to see your dear friend from middle school hurt. Though that's what's going to happen anyways.” He said, drawing the blade closer to her throat. “You Let her go!” Rainbow Dash snapped. “Now you see, that's where you're overstepping your boundaries.” Covetous snapped, appearing to smirk. “Think of this as... a mere parting of the ways. Lightning Dust has no need for you, and you are too pathetic of a person to actually care about what she thinks. I mean, why did you even bother to show up when-” ZAP! The sound of Covetous' rant was cut off as a lavender beam of energy streaked towards the demonic knight, striking the bladed arm and splitting it down the middle. Covetous, recoiled, staggering backwards with Lightning Dust in his clutches as they all turned. Standing at the goalpost that was behind Rainbow Dash was Harmony, his weapon pointed directly at the knight's head. “Dammit, I don't have time to be dealing with you now!” Covetous snapped, his bladed arm forming into an actual one and grabbing Lightning Dust as his other arm grabbed the axe. “Yeah, and I don't exactly have any free time to be messing with another one of you scum-beasts so let's get this party started.” Harmony taunted, rushing towards Covetous as the Demon warrior passed Lightning Dust to a pair of Larvals that appeared from the ground before returning the charge. Both warriors met in the center of the Soccer field, Harmony's blade crossing with Covetous' axe in an initial clash. The masked warrior seemed to get pushed back, losing some footing in the grass, before regaining traction with his boots and pushing right back against his demonic adversary. Covetous, seeing an opening, swung the butt of his axe towards Harmony in an attempt to gain leverage but was thrown forward as Harmony pushed the demon forward with the blade, causing him to taste the dirt. The axe-wielding demon quickly got to his feet, avoiding a kick from Harmony as the masked hero went on the offensive and threw a series of kicks at him, before leaping backwards as his axe was swung his way. “Nasty little beast aren't you?” Harmony asked, converting his blade back to a pistol before firing several shots at Covetous. The demon reacted quickly, sending several rays to the side before taking a third in the shoulder. He however didn't react, catching Harmony with an upward swing of his axe and staggering him. Sparks flew from the jumpsuit as Harmony reconverted his blade and moved it to parry another axe attack as it came his way. “I'm as nasty as they come meat. Now get outta my way.” Covetous snapped, throwing Harmony backwards with the axe before turning his back on the hero. He staggered forward before turning around as several small rays of energy impacted his body, causing sparks to erupt like fireworks on the Fourth of July, before raising his axe a second time. Harmony was ready however as the Masked hero dove underneath the swing of the axe before following the attack up with an uppercut that staggered the demon. Harmony avoided another axe swing, retaliating with a kick that staggered the demon even further. “I think it's time we finished this.” He said coolly as a lavender color replaced the color of the gem on his helmet. Before the gem could get completely full, the sound of a demonic wail filled the park, breaking harmony's concentration and causing him and Covetous to look up. The pair of Larvals were gone and in their stead was an abomination of a creature looking like a horrible fusion of the front half of a horse and a cage with flesh colored skin. The half of the creature was missing it's head where as the back half of the creature's legs was replaced with wagon wheels. “Excellent, my ride's here.” Covetous said calmly, throwing another wave of energy at Harmony before charging toward the ride. Rainbow Dash, who had been watching the fight nearby raced towards the cage. “Lightning Dust!” She shouted, as the teen violently shook the bars in a vain attempt to free herself. As Rainbow Dash neared the creature several Larvals popped up from the ground and grabbed her legs, causing her to trip and fall flat on her face. The cyan teen struggled to get up, but found that hard as the Larvals refused to let go as even more grabbed her other limbs. “Dash help!” Lightning Dust shouted from the cage before Covetous got to the creature. “Sorry Miss Dust, but your friend won't be able to help you. Now, let's go for a ride.” Covetous said with a hint of joy in his voice before climbing up on the creature. An otherworldly roar bellowed from within the belly of the beast before it started to move, carrying Lightning Dust and Covetous away from the park. “DASH!” Lightning Dust shouted, shaking the bars a second time just before disappearing with her captors behind the trees of the park. She could see Rainbow Dash struggle with the Larvals, trying to move as they held her down, and dropped to her knees. “It's my fault...” Lightning Dust thought, a few tears escaping her eyes. “Yeah, you go ahead and think that.” Covetous said from the front of the creature. “But by the end of tonight, you won't be thinking that at all! You'll be one of us then, and then you'll enjoy ruining other peoples lives hahahaha!” As the creature carrying Lightning Dust sped away, several bolts of lavender energy pierced through the heads of the Larvals that held Rainbow Dash down. The teen looked up, blinking as Harmony lowered his weapon before turning towards the set of wheels that were carved into the ground. “Y-Y-You're gonna save her right?” Rainbow Dash asked nervously. “You gotta- I'm going to save her.” Harmony said, cutting Rainbow Dash off. “Don't worry, everything's going to be fine. You should trust in your friend. She's strong.” Harmony then began to concentrate, the six-pointed star on the top of his head began to change colors as the rose color it had was being steadily replaced by a darker purple. Rainbow Dash stood in wonder as the same darker purple enveloped Harmony's hands, before a pair of beams shot from his palms and hit the ground. Slowly, a dome began to form and expand, getting bigger until it reached about to their hips in height. After breaking her hands away from the beams of energy, the dome disappeared which caused Rainbow Dash to stare in awe. Before them both was a motorcycle. It was sleek looking, looking more like an American made chopper than a Japanese Sport bike, but it had sort of a sport bike feel. The bike itself was dark purple, complete with rose colored accents and chrome plating where the motor and the mufflers were, as the back end of the bike extended out into a point that looked like a pair of dragon's wings. Several stars, similar to the ones on Harmony's jumpsuit could be seen, as the handle bars appeared to light up with the standard information one would see on a normal motorcycle. “That is so awesome...” Rainbow Dash whispered as Harmony mounted the bike and started it up, revving the engines to life. “Everyone's a fan of the bike. Now, it's time for the climax.” Harmony said, calmly waving Rainbow Dash off before guiding the bike in between the trail left behind by the carriage. After having moved out of the woods and onto a road that led into Canterlot City proper, Covetous chuckled a little and turned to glance over at his shoulder as Lightning Dust remained silent, her body tucked into herself as she tried to look small. “So, now that we're both alone how about I be the first to- You know I'm not going to submit. I'm going to get out of here.” Lightning Dust snapped, giving Covetous a death glare. “And whether I get out of here thanks to Rainbow Dash or thanks to that masked hero, you're going to get your ass kicked.” “Oho? So you think that someone's going to come and save you? At this time of night?” Covetous asked, waving his hand around as the slopes of the darkened hill which lead up to Canterlot High School appeared to be abandoned. “There's no one here to save you. So you should just give up now and prepare your first- VROOOOOOOM! The sounds of an engine going at full throttle pierced through the night, cutting the demon knight off. He stopped, and watched with horror as a dark purple motorcycle bearing the same color scheme as its Rider came barreling down from the side of the hill, landing beside the carriage with a loud, “WHUMP,” and knocking it to the side. “The hell? Since when did Riders have a bike?” Covetous asked. “Since always.” Harmony answered, shouting over the dull rumble of his engine. “Now release the girl and no one gets hurt. Well, except for you, but you don't count.” “Never!” Covetous shouted, smacking the side of the front end of the creature with the flat end of his axe forcing it to move faster. After hitting it a few good times, the creature was moving at a fair amount of speed, seemingly pulling away from the masked hero and his motorcycle. “Really? Is that the best you can do?” Harmony asked, revving up the engine on his motorcycle and giving chase. As both the carriage carrying Covetous and Lightning Dust and the motorcycle that carried Harmony began to scream down the road, Covetous turned firing several rays of energy from his eyes at Harmony. The bike swerved to the right, taking the inside corner of the highway before closing the distance between them. Harmony drew his weapon, pointing it at Covetous and firing several rounds at the demon only to miss as he pulled further ahead. “Help me!” Lightning Dust shouted, grabbing onto the cage and pulling at it, trying her best to do something. “Please! Help me!” “I'll be there in just a second!” Harmony shouted over the roar of his motorcycle's engine, pointing his weapon directly at the back of Covetous causing Lightning Dust to duck. Several beams of energy cut through the bars of the cage, causing the beast to cry out in pain and Covetous to hit it again to make it move faster. This only caused a delay in the beam that struck him in the head, knocking the demon face first into the back of the creature. Covetous turned around glaring as Harmony pulled back in beside the back left wheel as they rounded the next corner before cutting several more bars in the cage with the blade of his weapon. “Oh no you don't!” Covetous snapped, throwing a wave of energy back at Harmony with his axe, forcing the masked hero to back off from the pair of demons. Covetous ducked, as Harmony fired a retaliatory blast from his weapon a second time, looking back up as several more rays smacked him in the face, blinding him. Covetous howled in pain, covering up his eyes with his free arm as the carriage slowed down enough for Harmony to pull along its left side again. “Jump!” Harmony shouted after cutting a hole wide enough for Lightning Dust to climb through. “What are you crazy?!” Lightning Dust shouted as both the carriage and Harmony's motorcycle charged down a normally high-traffic street at top speeds, nearly breaking every law that they possibly could at the same time. “We're going a hundred miles an hour! It's suicide!” “Not exactly, we're going only eighty-five. Now jump!” Harmony corrected, extending a hand and getting closer. Nervous, Lightning Dust took a gulp of air before closing her eyes. “Okay Dust, this is the stupidest thing that you've ever done. But it's going to be okay. This guy's here to help.” A bump rocked the carriage which knocked the teen to her knees before letting her get to her feet a second time. “You can't screw this up. So... Here we-” Lightning Dust thought, jumping the small gap and into the waiting arms of the masked hero. “OHMYGODDON'TYOUFREAKIN'DARE!” She shouted as Harmony nearly lost his grip on her, before sliding onto the front of the seat of the motorcycle. “Wasn't planning on it.” Harmony said coolly, before beginning to stand on top of the seat. Several tendrils of lavender energy erupted from the six-pointed star on top of the helmet as two gripped the handlebars of the motorcycle like a pair of hands, appearing to stabilize it at the same time as the bike became charged with energy. Covetous, who had managed to clear his eyes stared in shock. His target was riding his opposition's motorcycle and his opposition was glowing in such a way that indicated that it would not be healthy for him in the least to come into contact with him. He smacked the side of his method of transport with his axe, urging it to go faster as several lavender tendrils appeared around on the ground near where he was riding, forming a circle with the same six-pointed star underneath the carriage and motorcycle rode onto the main street into downtown Canterlot. “You might want to hang on.” Harmony said in Lightning Dust's direction. The teen, understandably scared out of her wits, death-gripped the handlebars as the masked hero proceeded to leap into the air, doing a flip before swinging a lavender energy covered leg into the face of Covetous. The demonic knight tried to lift up his axe to protect himself, but the momentum of Harmony proved to be too much as the leg buried itself into his skull and sending a mountain of lavender energy through him and the carriage he was riding on. “But I'm a member of the Defiled! I'm not supposed toAAARRRGH-” Was all Covetous could say before an explosion of light and fire claimed him and the carriage that he rode on. The resulting shock wave started several alarms, causing them to erupt in a fury of Lights and sounds, but as Harmony leapt back onto the bike, nothing mattered. The masked hero guided the bike to a stop, causing Lightning Dust to release her deathgrip on the bike and dismount with all of the grace of a cat on ice. “That... Was... The most...” Lightning Dust began, rounding on Harmony as her temper began to flare. “I don't think that you should be angry with the person who just tried to save your life.” Harmony said quietly, climbing back on the motorcycle. “I'd give you a ride if you were so inclined, but I'm guessing that you'd prefer to walk.” He asked, as Lightning Dust shook her head. “No I'll take that ride.” She said, climbing on the bike with Harmony. The masked hero said nothing, doing a u-turn in the middle of the street before riding off, Lightning Dust holding on to him as tight as she could. Rainbow Dash stood alone, her feet scratching the ground of the park as night began to claim the skies above. “I hope Lightning Dust is okay.” Rainbow Dash thought quietly, looking up above and seeing the stars in the sky shining down on her. The loud sound of a lone engine could be heard in the distance, causing her to look up and see Harmony with Lightning Dust wrapped around him like he was her lifeline sent from heaven. “DAAAAAAAAAAAASH!” Lightning Dust shouted as the motorcycle skidded to a stop. Immediately she leapt off the bike, her legs grateful to being on solid ground, and ran towards the other teen with a skip in her step. Rainbow Dash smiled, getting up from the bench and running towards Lightning Dust before tackling her with a great hug. “Oh my gosh, Lightning Dust you're okay!” She squealed, causing Lightning Dust to smile. “Of course Dash, I'm okay because of-” She turned, blinking as Harmony was nowhere to be found, the sound of the motorcycle engine roaring off in the distance as both Rainbow Dash and Lightning Dust shared a glance. Both remained silent for several moments before looking down on the soccer ball that was sitting on the park bench, appearing to patiently wait to be used. “So... Up for a game?” Rainbow Dash asked sheepishly. “You mean to tell me that this Harmony leapt off of a moving vehicle and kicked your attacker in the face?” Rarity asked the next day. Rainbow Dash, who was insistent about patching things over with Lightning Dust and her friends had the turquoise teen sit with them over lunch, recounting the events that happened with the motorcycle chase that had ensued after she was captured by Covetous. “Oh my, were you scared?” Fluttershy asked, blushing as Lightning Dust nodded. “Yeah, I'll admit it. I was scared, I mean you try jumping from a moving carriage onto a motorcycle moving eighty-five miles an hour and you see how, “awesome,” it is.” Lightning Dust replied. “But there is one thing that I have to say.” She turned towards the other girls at the table. “Dash, You know as well as I do that the Screaming Eagles are the best thing that's ever happened to me.” “Yeah, I do. So, what's the point of being angry?” Rainbow Dash asked, causing everyone at the table to either shake their heads or facepalm. “Well, I was angry because I thought you had forgotten about what had happened to Gilda.” Lightning Dust replied. “We were a team. A family, and I thought that you had broken that.” She smiled, looking down at something in her hands from beneath the table before grinning. “But you know, I can forgive you.” “You can?” Rainbow Dash asked. “What happened to Gilda anyways?” Sunset Shimmer asked, watching as a tear ran down Lightning Dust's eye. “Oh, you don't have to- It's better that you know.” Lightning Dust replied, wiping her face gently with a napkin. “You see, that night at Whitetail Park...” She pause, her voice getting caught up in her throat as her tears began to well up. “She... Well- She was beaten so bad by a group of thugs from South Central that she couldn't play Soccer ever again.” Rainbow Dash said bluntly, causing everyone at the table to gasp. “It's the truth. And I asked Lightning Dust to beat me to make up for not showing up when I should have.” Rainbow Dash said, her face falling in shame. “But it wasn't your fault to begin with!” Lightning Dust cried, turning towards Rainbow Dash, who shrugged. “I was the one who- No, I didn't show up.” Rainbow Dash said quietly, smiling a little. “But there's someone here for you. She's just visiting mind you but...” She smiled, turning towards the cafeteria door and gesturing her hand for someone to come over to their table. “I think that she'll be the confidence that you'll need.” The doors flung open wide, which caused most of the student body to gasp. Sitting in an all black wheelchair, was a teenager that looked like she was more of an adult than most of the faculty and staff in the cafeteria. The teen had several scars across her face as her tanned skin was paler than what one could consider normal, and wore a battered aviator jacket with a black muscle shirt and pants. Her tuft of white hair covered most of her face, but a pair of golden eyes were visible, and they appeared to beam with a sort of pride that no one had ever seen. Calmly the stranger wheeled herself towards their table, stopping at the end closest to where Lightning Dust and Rainbow Dash were sitting at. “So, I heard from a little birdie that you were having problems before the big game. Is that true Dust?” She asked as Lightning Dust released the breath that she had been holding. “G-G-Gilda?” Lightning Dust asked. “Yeah Dust it's me.” Gilda answered, grunting as Lightning Dust leapt at her with a hug. “Heh, good to see you too.” She said, smiling a little before Dragging Rainbow Dash into the hug. “Its good to see the both of you.”
ProloguePrologue “Huff... Huff...” This world of ours is filled with mysterious and strange wonders. From the knowledge of dreams to the uncharted territories of deep space. “Control to Dive team. What's the status of the excavation?” Some wonders can be uncovered from the tiniest of excursions, maybe a lost memory that is found when one cleans their closet. While others can be found in the most dangerously guarded temples and ruins. “This is Dive Leader, we haven't found anything at the drop site. Most of the area's covered in rubble, and would take weeks to get cleared out.” “Roger that Dive Leader, return to the surface, there's a vessel up topside waiting for pickup.” But there are some things... There are somethings that just need to be left alone. “Holy shit, what is that?” “Dive Leader, do you copy? Dive Leader, what's the situation? Dammit Deep Sea, if you're pulling another dumb-assed prank just to scare us again I'm gonna- Some things coming out from the back, It's gonnaAAAAARGHHHHH----------” Some things, they don't want to be uncovered. Canterlot High School, 11:30 PM- “N-N-No... No stay back!” In the middle of an extremely large Soccer Pitch, a group of teenagers wearing pale white full bodysuits with fake eye-masks surrounded another teen, who wore a black leather jacket, with a pair of blue jeans a yellow t-shirt, and sneakers The black hair on top of his head would normally be slicked back and full of grease, but was presently a messy mop. “Join uuuuuuuuuuussssssssssssssssss.......” The crowd of teenagers moaned, continuing to advance on the only non-bodysuit clad member. “It will make you feel better- -it will make you one with us- -be one with us- -it is who you are-” “No, Stop it, Stop it!” The teen cried, trying to run through a part of the crowd like a football player only to get thrown roughly back. “It's no use Ace. You will become one of us. He... He needs you, for lack of a better word, to be the stepping stone of his gift.” The teen known as Ace looked up, seeing the figure of a smallish looking teenager standing on a set of bleachers against the light of the moon. The only thing that he could see about her was the glimmering golden hair that was billowing out like an invisible wind and a pair of eyes that continued to shine a pale green light. “You all are crazy!” Ace snapped, gasping as several of the other teens grabbed his limbs to restrain him. “No... NO! You're not going to make me into one of them! You're not going-” Ace's body began to glow a sickly disgusting violet. His body convulsed, limbs thrashing every which way as the light began to consume him. The teens that surrounded the human once known as Ace Ray stepped backwards, watching as the now human shaped-light melded and formed into a small sphere of dark purple energy. After a few moments the sphere reformed, revealing a monster. The teen on the bleachers leapt off from the top and stood in the circle as the teens took a knee. After a few moments she smiled, grinning at her handiwork before placing a hand over her lips. “Welcome to the family.”
The Dawn of Battle! Harmony Takes the Stage! Lunch time seemed normal, for the most part. As Sunset Shimmer walked into the Cafeteria, she could see that the school cliques were acting just as they had been for the past four years of her time at Canterlot high. She sighed, looking down at the floor as several students looked in her direction and shared hushed whispers with their fellow class mates and pointed in her direction. “I wish that they wouldn't do that... I thought that it would blow over much sooner than this...” “SUNSET!” The yellow teenager turned, leaping to the side as an all pink blur nearly bowled her over. “Pinkie, you know I hate it when you do that...” She mumbled, giving the schools number one hyperactive teenager a hug. “Yeah, but there's something wrong.” Pinkie replied, planting her face directly into Sunset's and getting closer than she would have wanted to. “Definitely very wrong.” “Eh heh heh heh... What's wrong Pinkie?” Sunset asked, gently pushing her back a little. Partly pushing, partly guiding, the brightly pink-clad teenager led Sunset Shimmer over to the far side of the cafeteria. She said nothing, continuing to guide her over to where the other girls that dethroned her at the Fall Formal, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and Fluttershy, were all sitting with two spots available. They all looked up, each smiling as Pinkie popped up behind her and took a seat next to Rarity's right. “Well, we figured, now that you're out of rebuilding the front end of the school that you smashed because of the Element of Harmony that you st- “ Several hands were placed over Pinkie's mouth before she could finish, just as Sunset Shimmer began to blush in shame. “What Pinkie means dear, is that we were hoping that you could sit with us. After all it was suggested by a Princess that we could teach you about friendship right?” “Yeah, after what you did I don't think that many people would really want to hang out with you.” Rainbow Dash added, before getting punched in the shoulder by Applejack. “I-uh-I mean not that it wasn't totally awesome, you turning into that monster thing but- I get it Rainbow Dash.” Sunset Shimmer replied, turning away from the group. “Look I get that you're actually trying, but I know that your only doing this because Princess Twilight told you to do it. I don't blame you if you wouldn't want to hang out with me anyways.” “But that's not true Sunset!” Fluttershy replied, looking up from the fruit salad that she was presently picking at. “We know that your really sorry and that you're just trying to make amends for everything you did.” “Trust us. This ain't gonna be an easy one that ya'll can jes' fix with a snap of your fingers.” Applejack added, giving an earnest smile to Sunset Shimmer. The other teens followed suit, with Rainbow dash pulling the open chair out for her. Something in the way they acted, something sparked within the teen that she hadn't felt since she left Equestria and it felt warm. She quickly sat down in the open seat, the people that were willing to be her friend were willing to give her another chance. “But, I don't get it. After all of those horrible things that I did to you... Why?” She asked looking around and watching as they all seemed to be thinking the same thing. “Do you really have to ask?” Pinkie said, looking across from the lunch table at her. “It's simple really, that's what friends do. Especially when someone wants to try.” Rarity added, extending a hand towards Sunset Shimmer. “I think that proper introductions are underway, don't you girls?” She asked, as a chorus of, “Yes,” could be heard from the other girls at the table. “Well then, my name of course is Rarity and I am pleased to make your acquaintance.” As introductions were held around the table, along with subsequent chatter about her likes and dislikes, a group of students all wearing white t-shirts and blue jeans were glaring in her direction. None of them moved or said anything, but from a glance one could tell that they were staring directly at Sunset Shimmer. “Mistress Lust, is that the one?” One of them said, barely audible over the noise and chatter of the room. “Yes Ambition, that is your target. Sunset Shimmer, the lost student to the other world's Princess Celestia.” A voice whispered into the leader of the group's, Ace Ray, head. “She would make a fine addition to our lord's army. It would... Make me very happy if you could bring her to be a part of our little community.” The dark blue teen smirked darkly, continuing to maintain his gaze at Sunset Shimmer. “It shall be done as you command Mistress.” He said, turning around and staring at the plate of food that had been absentmindedly placed in front of him. “You,” He said, looking across the table from where he sat and seeing a light green boy in front of him. “Yes my lord?” The boy asked, looking up from staring at Sunset Shimmer. “You have class with her don't you?” “Of course my lord. I do have class with the target.” The boy answered, watching as Ambition smiled. “Excellent, then you know what to do.” He said, watching as he nodded. “It shall be done as you will it to be done.” Lunch time ended faster than what Sunset Shimmer had originally experienced. Normally she was busy bossing Snips and Snails around or chasing off other students that she didn't have any time to really be social with anyone else. And after her first year at Canterlot High, she was already one of the students to be afraid of. The ex-student of magic calmly trudged into her next class of the day, chemistry, and picked out a seat by the window. One of her favorite spots since the class bored her unless it was one of the days in Lab. The teacher Mr. Babble was an all right sort, a bit of a nut job if you asked her, but it wasn't what had really taken her by surprise. “That Can't be...” She thought, staring out at the window and into the soccer field. Sitting there, in the middle of the field with her face apparently buried deep in a heavy text book, was a lavender girl with a pair of blue jeans, a white button down shirt underneath a lavender vest with purple go-go boots and purple and pink hair. She seemed to be completely unaware of her surroundings, even as the current gym class for that period walked out onto the pitch. “Ms. Shimmer? Ms. Shimmer are you here?” The sound of Mr. Babble caused the teen to look up to the front of the class. “Yes sir, I'm here.” She said, watching as the teacher looked up from his desk and coughed slightly before looking back down at his notes. “I swear she went back to Equestria, but what is she... Unless she's this world's version of Twilight. I don't know but-” She stopped, facepalming at the realization and getting looks from the rest of the class including the teacher himself. “Eh heh heh heh... I just remembered something from last night's homework assignment that I forgot to put down...” She said, watching as the rest of the class looked away. “Of course its Twilight Sparkle. But it isn't Princess Twilight Sparkle, she left back for Equestria as soon as she got her crown back.” Sunset Shimmer turned towards the front of the class as a paper was passed to her, a notes page that the teacher expected to be filled in no doubt. The teen quickly adjusted herself on the stool that she sat on, preparing herself for another almost boring lecture from the teacher over a subject she learned almost two-and-a-half years ago from her previous life. “Hey Sunset. Sunset Shimmer...” A voice whispered to her right. She turned, her gaze meeting that of a light green colored boy's next to her. “Um... I don't think that I remember him letting us talk during Class Notes day.” Sunset whispered back turning back to the front of the board and quickly jotting down several topics that were present on the projector. “Well, he won't know if we're quiet. Anyways, there's something I wanna ask you.” The Boy continued, not noticing as Sunset Shimmer seemed to ignore him. “You see, a couple of guys I know are having a little get together and... well I was told to bring someone with me. You know, someone that I knew really well.” “Uh huh.” Sunset Shimmer replied, blankly staring ahead at the classroom. “Well, you see we've been Lab partners for a while now and I was wondering- Look, I know what you're trying to do and it won't work.” Sunset Shimmer whispered, cutting the boy off quietly. “You're trying to score a date with me so you can brag to your buddies how you managed to get close to the girl who nearly destroyed the last Fall Formal.” She looked down for a split second at her notes, making sure that they matched the ones that were posted from the projector before continuing. “You seem like a nice guy, really. But I already have plans, and they don't really involve being set as a part of a leader-board.” She could hear the boy's breathing increase rapidly, almost as if she were breathing in her ear. When she turned around, the teen nearly freaked and leapt out of her chair as the boy she was speaking with was centimeters away from her face. This caused the rest of the class to look in their direction, nearly embarrassing Sunset Shimmer. “Well my my my, I didn't know that talking about Electron Exchange could have that sort of an effect on people.” Mr. Babble commented as Sunset Shimmer picked herself up off of the floor. “Miss Shimmer, I understand that it must be really hard to get the boys off of you but when you want to turn people down please do not do it during my class. And don't do it especially when I'm giving notes to the rest of the class, it detracts from their learning environment as much as it does from yours. Am I clear?” Sunset Shimmer didn't say anything, but nodded slowly, climbing back onto her lab stool and looking back down at her notes. She could hear the snickering come from the other students in the room, but did her best to ignore them as she began to concentrate on keeping up on the work. During off period, in between classes - “You mean Green Gills, the scaredyist most nervous, unsociable person in all of Canterlot High tried hitting on you?” As soon as Sunset Shimmer had left her Chemistry class, she made her way to the Soccer pitch only to run into Rarity and Pinkie Pie halfway there. After explaining what had happened in class, both girls shared a look that appeared to be a cross between disgust and concern. “Yeah, you could say that.” The yellow teen replied, shuddering at remembering the sound of his voice. “Well it does sound unsightly, but don't you think that you were too hard on him dear?” Rarity asked, causing both Sunset and Pinkie Pie to look up at her. “No no, do understand, he isn't exactly the aggressive type. One would even say that it is the understatement of the year. But, maybe these friends of his were trying to build up his confidence?” Both teens shared a dubious look. “Trust me, if there's one thing that I've kept up on in all my years at Canterlot High, it's the list for those that would be most likely to get a date at this school.” Rarity pulled out her cellphone, as a list of names immediately popped up on the screen. “He does have incredibly steep competition but- Rarity, Sunset, Pinkie!” The three Girls looked up to see Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy all standing at the door that led to the Soccer Pitch. From what Sunset could see, Applejack hadn't been there yet and as they approached, she was nowhere to be seen. “What's going on with you guys?” Rainbow Dash asked, watching as Sunset looked away. “Some guy in Sunset Shimmer's Chemistry class tried to hit on her.” Pinkie answered, causing Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash to blush. “Really, all ready?” Fluttershy asked watching as the red and yellow haired teen looked away. “But who was it? I mean- It wasn't one of those sweet-talkin' manhandlers was it?” Rainbow Dash snapped, watching Sunset shake her head. “It was Green Gills.” She said, taking both girls by surprise. “And no, it wasn't because he did it that's got me worried. It was how he did it that scared me.” She said, placing one of her hands on her free arm. “What happened? Did he do something to you?” Rainbow Dash snapped. “Because if he did I'll- No Dashie, you can't hurt him! That's very mean!” Pinkie Pie said, cutting off Rainbow Dash, just as the cyan teenager was getting riled up. “She's right you know, as much as I honestly would like to avoid saying it.” Rarity replied, giving Pinkie her most apologetic smile. “The Wondercolts can't have their team captain in detention for ruthlessly beating down some love-struck student because they tried to get a date at an inappropriate time.” “It wasn't that...” Sunset Shimmer whispered, taking everyone else by surprise. “It wasn't that at all. It was just... It was just the way he tried to hit on me, something seemed off with the way he did it as opposed to the way other guys tried to do it you know?” The other girls gave each other a glance before smiling. “Hey, it's gonna be okay Sunset.” Fluttershy reassured, taking a step over to Sunset Shimmer and gently taking her hand. “Yeah, we're your friends!” Pinkie said excitedly, taking Sunset Shimmer's other hand. “If you need help in any way- We've got your back.” Rainbow Dash finished for Pinkie, holding open the door as both Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie walked her outside. “It's what friends do, and that's what we're here for.” “Friends... So that's what she meant by learning the magic of friendship...” Sunset Shimmer thought as the other girls walked with her to the bleachers on the other side of the soccer field. She couldn't help but smile a little, as the small group helped her push Green Gills earlier advance on her out of her mind. She looked up, and watched as Applejack walked up before she and Rainbow Dash got involved in a game of soccer before turning to Pinkie Pie and Rarity. “You know, there is something else that I did forget to mention.” Sunset Shimmer began, her thoughts dwelling on the girl that reminded her of Twilight Sparkle. “What is it?” Rarity asked. “I could have sworn that... That earlier I saw Twilight Sparkle right where Rainbow Dash and Applejack are now.” Sunset Shimmer replied, watching as Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Fluttershy stared at her incredulously. “But I thought Twilight went home?” Fluttershy asked, watching as Sunset Shimmer shook her head. “Maybe it's our world's version of her.” Rarity replied. “I certainly don't recall ever meeting a Twilight Sparkle during our time here outside of that week of the Fall Formal.” “Maybe she's a clone that was created by Princess Twilight to keep an eye out for Sunset Shimmer, because maybe your like her impromptu student from another world and-” Rarity placed a hand over Pinkie Pie's Mouth before she could go any further. “Pinkie Pie, breathe please. We don't want you to pass out now would we?” She asked, watching as Pinkie Pie shook her head. “And as impressive as your theory is, that's just it. It's just a theory, for all we know that could be our own version of Twilight Sparkle and we wouldn't even know that she existed until now.” “But why would she be here though? Wouldn't she disappear because Equestria's version of Twilight no longer is here?” Fluttershy whispered, watching Sunset Shimmer shake her head. “No, that's not it.” Sunset Shimmer said quietly. “Something must've kept this Twilight Sparkle away from Canterlot High when Equestria's Twilight showed up to get her crown back. If it didn't then both Twilight's would have caused a major rift in the space-time continuum and- Basically everything would get all broken and not fun anymore right?” Pinkie Pie said, cutting Sunset Shimmer off. The red and yellow haired teenager nodded. “Yeah something like that.” Sunset Shimmer replied. “Well at least the universe knows how to fix problems before they happen right?” Pinkie Pie said happily as both Rarity and Fluttershy shared a look. “I mean, who would want to see double of the same person at the same place at the same time? It would just get crazy!” She smiled, turning her gaze back towards the soccer field as Rainbow Dash and Applejack were in the middle of the game. “Yeah... Crazy.” Sunset Shimmer whispered. The rest of the school day went by as a blur, and before Sunset Shimmer knew it she was on her way to her locker and back home. Her new friends decided to tag along, she appreciated the company, and as they arrived at her locker in the mathematics wing of the school building, an icy chill ran down her spine. “Did you ever get the feeling that you were being watched?” Pinkie Pie asked, looking over her shoulder as the other girls appeared to get the same sort of feeling. “Ah know that this place gave me tha' spooks, but somethins' mighty off about it now...” Applejack mumbled. “I think that we should go...” Fluttershy mumbled, looking over her shoulder as Sunset Shimmer pulled her bags from out of her locker. The slam of the locker door wasn't all as reassuring as it should have been, and when the group of six moved away from it they all felt like several eyes were watching them. Rainbow Dash visibly tensed up as did Applejack, where as Rarity took Fluttershy by the hand and walked with her close by while Pinkie cautiously skipped along. They all stopped at the front of stairwell that led back to the first floor and blinked as Green Gills stood in the doorway and seemingly blocked off their escape. “Ah... Sunset Shimmer. How nice of you to finally show up.” Green Gills said, taking a step forward. Footsteps could be heard from behind them as several more teenagers appeared from around the nearby intersecting hallway, blocking off the way they came. “And look, you've brought some friends! How wonderful, now can I ask that you would please come with us? If that isn't so much trouble.” Sunset Shimmer shook her head. “Listen, I don't want to sound rude but, I don't want to go anywhere except back home okay?” She asked, watching the unpleasant smile on his face disappear slightly. “I know that you're trying to be nice, but your trying my patience and I don't have to go anywhere I don't want to.” Green Gills took a step forward, a devious smirk gracing his face. “Oh come now Ms. Shimmer. I really must insist that you come with me. If it's all the same you can- Look, if she doesn't want to go with you she isn't going anywhere with you!” Rainbow Dash snapped, standing in between Green Gills and Sunset Shimmer. Applejack followed suit as Pinkie Pie, Rarity and Fluttershy all stood closer to her. “Besides, she already told you no once. Why don't you take the hint and get someone else?” Green Gills' outstretched hand fell to his side, the smirk on his face falling. “You are someone who wouldn't understand Miss Dash.” He said quietly, chuckling a little. He then brought his hands together, cracking his knuckles as his eyes began to lose all of their color and turn a dark, soulless black. “You don't have a choice in this matter. Sunset Shimmer will come with us, and we will be taking her.” “Now hold on a minute, what'dya mean ya'ller gonna be takin' her?” Applejack snapped, tensing up as they began to hear low growls. “I told you, I'm not going anywhere.” Sunset Shimmer snapped, watching as Green Gills' skin began to change to a pale white. She, along with the rest of the girls in their group could see that a pale white goop began to form around their bodies, solidifying into an all-white jumpsuit as the seconds passed. “Something's definitely wrong here.” Sunset Shimmer thought, taking a half of a step back. “Well then... If you would be so kind Mr. Gills as to let us pass, then we can be on our way. After all, we do have a lot of homework to catch up on in class and- SILENCE!” Green Gills roared, cutting Rarity off guard. “If you will not come with us willingly Sunset Shimmer, then we shall take you by force instead.” He snapped, raising his right hand and snapping his fingers. In an instant, the teenagers watched with horror as the puddles that formed on the floor erupted into columns of white energy, concealing the teenagers that were once standing there. Fluttershy immediately latched onto Pinkie Pie's arm just as Applejack and Rainbow Dash stepped back and turned to run. Sunset Shimmer looked around, all she could see was white energy on either side of them, created from at least seven or eight teenagers that had managed to block off their escape. The columns, which were beginning to die down, revealed a pair of all black, pupil-less eyes that appeared to stare into the group of teens souls. As the torrents of energy died down, they all gasped at the new form that took the place of Green Gills and the other teens standing in their way. Before them was a monster, pale white and at least seven feet tall with black lines running all up and down along their bodies which seemed to radiate energy. Their faces were covered in a black, shell like armor as their arms were coated in the same armor only shaped like crab-claws. The monsters all were hunched over, menacingly closing in on their small group like predators advancing for the kill. “What... What are these things!” Rarity shrieked, latching onto Fluttershy as the group now appeared back to back from each other. “I don't know, but they ain’t human.” Rainbow Dash whispered. “What are we gonna do?” It was then that Sunset Shimmer's face brightened significantly. Staring into the stairwell behind the creature that was once Green Gills she smirked before plowing through both Applejack and Rainbow Dash. “Sunset, What are you doing!” Pinkie Pie shouted, watching the teen charge straight at the beast in front of her. However the teen knew what she was doing, and smirked slightly as whatever was in front of her lowered itself and prepared for the kill. She smiled, and slid underneath the beast right as it jumped, causing it to crash face first into the floor before turning to her new friends. “RUN!” She shouted, holding the door open just as the other five teens shared a glance. They didn't need to be told twice however, as an all black claw touched Fluttershy in the back, causing her to rocket into the stairwell with Rarity and Pinkie Pie in tow at an unbelievable speed. Rainbow Dash and Applejack soon followed, watching over their shoulder as Sunset Shimmer slammed the door in the beast's face before following the rest of them downstairs. “I didn't know that Fluttershy could run that fast!” Sunset Shimmer commented as she, Applejack and Rainbow Dash ran to catch up with the others. “Trust me, when she get's scared she gets moving. Besides, what would you do if you had something slimy and creepy looking touch you in the back?” Rainbow Dash asked as they got to the bottom of the stairwell and began to follow the trail of smoke that led deeper into the first floor. They caught up with Fluttershy, Rarity and Pinkie a few moments later, the runner hiding in a closet as both Pinkie and Rarity were trying to catch their breath. “Is she in there?” Sunset asked, watching both teens nod. “Well lets get her out of there, and then we'll- So, this is the target? Please, All I see is a scared little girl.” The group of teens looked up at the speaker, taking a step back as a dark blue teenager that wore a black leather jacket with a white t-shirt and blue jeans stood with several of the creatures that had them cornered just a few moments earlier. “Who are you?” Sunset Shimmer snapped. “What do you want?” The teen shrugged, popping a few joints in his neck. “Who I am doesn't really matter. But if you must know I was once the best member of the Canterlot Wondercolts Soccer Varsity team, Ace Ray. And what I want is you Sunset Shimmer.” The yellow teen stepped back as Ace Ray stepped forward. “So, how about you come with me and we'll all be one big happy- She's not going anywhere with you dammit!” Rainbow Dash snapped, taking everyone by surprise by stepping in front of Sunset Shimmer. “She said no once, and no means no! Or did you forget that during your time off from the squad Ace?” She snapped, watching as Ace rolled his eyes. “No, I didn't forget about that Rainbow Dash.” Ace snapped, cracking his knuckles and advancing on the group at the closet. “I didn't forget about how you got me thrown off of the team because I was better than you were. I didn't forget how you turned me against everyone here. I didn't forget Captain Dash. And neither will you.” Ace rose his hand, making a move to grab Sunset Shimmer, only to meet Rainbow Dash's fist with his face. The resulting impact caused Ace to stagger slightly, but not enough to back away from Sunset Shimmer. The rainbow haired teen recoiled, her fist in pain as she drew it back to her chest. “What the heck, his face feels like it's made of steel!” Rainbow Dash thought just as Ace turned on her. “Man... I know that I was told to collect Sunset Shimmer, but a little revenge can't hurt.” Ace growled, turning his attention to Rainbow Dash before throwing a punch at her. The teen threw her hands up to protect herself, only for the force of the impact to knock her into the wall. He turned back on Sunset Shimmer, watching out of the corner of his eye as Rainbow Dash slid down to the floor with Rarity rushing to her side. “Now, lets see what motivates you. Let's see what we can do to twist that drive of yours.” He said, his voice full of confidence as he began to reach for Sunset Shimmer a second time. Ace's reach was interrupted however as his target was pulled out of the way, thanks to Applejack, who passed Sunset Shimmer to Pinkie Pie before swinging a kick at him. Ace caught the incoming attack, throwing her to the ground before advancing on Sunset Shimmer and Pinkie Pie. “Anyone else want to get in my way?” Ace snapped, a dark aura beginning to radiate from his body. He was answered by a cowgirl boot and a blue fist to the face, knocking him backwards away from Sunset Shimmer and Pinkie Pie. “I knew that you still had it AJ.” Rainbow Dash complimented, leaning on Rarity for support as they both gave each other a high-five. “Now you know that Ah couldn't let mah best friend deal with a punk on her own could Ah?” Applejack replied, “Now les' git gone fore-” The southern teenager was thrown backwards by a kick that was sent her way. Rainbow moved to help her up, only getting punched in the side of the head and knocked into Pinkie who was standing behind where Applejack lay. “Hey! That wasn't nice, apologize!” Pinkie Pie snapped as Ace smirked. “Uhh... Pinkie Pie, we're long since past the point of getting apologies...” Rarity whispered as she, and Sunset Shimmer helped Rainbow Dash and Applejack back up to their feet. The door to the closet opened slightly, as Fluttershy's eyes could be seen from within, watching as Ace advanced on the other five teenagers with the creatures that he was with. “You girls have been a nuisance ever since I started this little charade.” Ace replied, breathing deeply through his nose before beginning to flex every muscle in his body. “I think it's time that I should just break you now. I might get chewed out by the boss, but when there's another Defiled in the ranks, it ain't gonna be so bad.” Ace cracked his knuckles a second time just as Rainbow Dash and Applejack were helped up by Sunset Shimmer and Rarity. “Defiled? What are you talking about?” Sunset Shimmer snapped, watching as the other creatures around Ace began to advance past him. “Oh, well don't you know?” Ace asked. “Those that forgo everything that makes them perfect at least once is stained.” He smirked, the dark aura that radiated from his body slowly became more and more opaque as it took on a purplish-black color. “Sunset Shimmer, my master want's you. And I intend to give your stained soul to him.” He snapped, his body disappearing in a flash of black light. “Stained... Soul?” Sunset Shimmer asked, stepping back from the other girls as what could be only described as a netherworldly light show began in front of them. A ring of black eldritch fire erupted around where Ace Ray once stood, crackling and howling with an unearthly wail as a dark green light cast itself over the hallway. From within the ring, they could see several spikes rising out of the teenager's shoulders as a massive pincher-like claw took the place of Ace's right arm. His body seemed to be covered in a black carapace of scales as his other arm and feet were replaced with demonic-looking claws. A pair of Demonic wings erupted from the teens back as a scorpions tail grew from the front. Sunset and her new friends gasped, watching Ace's transformation unfold. A new pair of dragonic red eyes appeared in Ace's face as a pair of Golden horns erupted from the sides of his head, completing the look. “How do you like my new look girls?” He asked, moving his shoulders around as he took several steps towards them. “This... This isn't real...” Rarity whispered as she helped pull Rainbow Dash and Applejack away from the, demonic abomination in front of them. “What are you supposed to be? The Devil or something?” She asked, watching as the creature shrugged. “Well I guess that you could call me one of his children, though I never knew him.” The creature replied, raising his pincher at the group of girls in front of him. “But if you must know before you die, my name is Ambition. And I am here to take Sunset Shimmer back to my master, so that she may be reborn in our folds!” The statement would have had more impact had not a pale yellow blur erupted out of the nearby closet and attempted to roundhouse kick Ambition. Fluttershy and the other girls gasped, watching as Ambition caught her leg and held it tightly in his grasp as the teen struggled to remove it. “Ahh... The gang's all here then.” Ambition commented, lifting Fluttershy into the air before throwing her towards her friends. “Now then... I'll start with you Sunset Shimmer. Then maybe I might just have a little snack with your friends to chase down lunch earlier today. How does that sound?” The yellow teen watched with horror as the abomination advanced on her and her friends. “What am I going to do?” She thought, looking in front of her as Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and Fluttershy began to develop significant bruises from their futile attacks on Ambition. “I don't want to die, and I don't want my friends to get hurt either... Of all the times to not have magic, why do I not have it now?” As she was thinking, Ambition and his monsters were getting closer. The flaming headed teen and her friends were slowly getting backed into a corner, and there was no way out of it. She could hear the demonic growling of the monsters that were with him, and she could hear his chuckling as he advanced, but there was nothing that she had ever read that could help her deal with a human student from another realm turning into a demon. “Now now, we all can't win them all now can we?” Ambition asked, raising up his pincher as he began to close the distance. “Here is the part where I get to say Welcome to the- ZAP! ZAP! ZAP ZAP ZAP! Several beams of lavender energy cut through Ambition's claw like it were paper, causing the end to clatter to the ground, before striking the wall behind them. The demonic beast turned as did it's minions which caused Sunset Shimmer and her friends to look up in surprise. “Who the hell're you?” Standing behind the group of monsters was a figure. None of them could tell whether it was male or female due to the dark purple bodysuit with black heavy boots that he wore, and no one could see the face as it was covered in an all purple full-face helmet with a pair of pink bug-like eyes on the front. A simple rose colored six pointed star was embedded on the top of the stranger's helmet as was in the middle of his chest as a silver belt buckle that bore the same star gleamed in the fluorescent light. A simply long lavender scarf fluttered off from the figure's neck, bearing the same six pointed star that the rest of his suit presently had, as one of his hands clutched a small pistol that was in the shape of a magic wand. “I'm just a drifter, looking for the true meaning of Harmony.” The figure answered, quite clearly even though his mouth was completely covered. “I am the one destined to defeat the Defiled... I am Kamen Rider Harmony.”
Clash, Harmony vs. The DefiledClash, Harmony vs. The Defiled Silence filled the hallway as Harmony's statement seemed to chill the air. Ambition stepped forward. “So... the big tough guy thinks that he can be a hero and save the day huh?” He snarled, pushing several of his minions aside and stepping to the back of the crowd of them. “I just want to know one thing before I kill you.” “Oh?” Harmony asked, lowering his weapon slightly. “And what's that?” “What's your face gonna look like when I rip that mask off of it?” He snapped, charging directly at the masked hero. The monsters that were with Ambition followed, seeming to forget about the girls that were almost huddled against the wall in fear of the demon and his minions. Harmony simply lowered her weapon and flicked it once. The barrel of the gun extended into a long, rapier-like blade as the handle of the gun simply straightened out to look like an improvised sword handle. “Now come and get me, those who have fallen from the path of light.” Harmony snapped, calmly waking towards the incoming horde. Harmony stopped once calmly gripping his weapon with both hands as the first creature came on him, and brought the blade down on an offending claw. After letting go of the sword with his left hand, Harmony caught the other claw with his bare hand and stepped back, causing the beast to lurch forward before slashing it in the chest with the sword. The masked hero then let go of the claw of the fallen beast, stepping over it and towards two more that approached with a leap at him. The first one he blocked and sent it to his left casually, almost as if he was uninterested in the beast before bringing the blade he carried down directly on the other attacker. It tried to defend itself, throwing its claws to block the incoming attack, but the blade passed through them and split them and their owner right down the middle. Another loud roar caused Harmony to turn, as the second member of the initial paired assault tried leaping at him. The masked hero stepped to the side, watching the beast face plant before burying the heavy booted foot into the attacker's back, causing it to remain still. One would even say that he seemed amused, calmly ignoring several of the other beasts that charged him and focused his attention on Ambition himself, guarding several claws from the back with his blade before throwing them off of him, spinning around with one slash and knocking them to the ground. “You should really get these Larvals looked at. They're really not up to par.” Harmony said coolly, casually side-stepping a swipe of Ambition's free claw. Two more claw attacks came to the Masked hero's way only to not connect with anything, with the purple-clad warrior evading both blows like a skilled master. “Hold still you little shit so I can strangle you!” Ambition snapped, swinging his damaged pincher at Harmony only to have it caught by his bare hand. The demon threw his other claw directly at the hero, only to have it blocked and cast aside by the blade in his free hand before getting kicked in the chest and sent sliding back at least a foot. “Oh what's the matter?” Harmony asked, blocking Ambition's broken claw with his sword before pushing it off of him and slashing his chest, causing sparks to erupt like a set of mini-fireworks that were set off from his body. “Strong enough to bully a group of six teenage girls, but not enough to handle someone that can fight back eh?” Harmony said, leaping into the air and giving Ambition a spinning kick to the face, causing him to slide backwards. The demon recoiled, taking another slash to the chest and backed off slightly, anger filling his face. “Master Ambition, what do we do now?” One of the voices of the Larvals asked as several of the creatures began to rise to their feet. “For now, let's let the target be.” Ambition replied, taking a step backwards as a ball of energy formed in his clawed hand. “But heed my words,” He turned towards Sunset Shimmer and her friends and cast a glance in their direction before turning back to Harmony. “This is not over. Sunset Shimmer will be ours, and your head will be on my master's pike.” He snapped, throwing the ball of energy to the ground and flooding the hallway with darkness. In an instant they were gone, Ambition and the monsters that were with him, leaving only Sunset and her friends with the strange masked hero. “W-Wh-Who are you?” Fluttershy finally stammered, watching as the hero appeared to holster his weapon on his belt. “For now, it doesn't matter. You're safe, but only until the Defiled return.” Harmony answered, turning to leave. “Return?” Pinkie Pie repeated, getting to her feet and helping the others as she did so. “You mean that those meanie mean monsters that looked like people will be back?” “Yes, they will be back. And more of them will most certainly follow.” Harmony sighed, casting a glance at the group of teenagers behind him. “It's not my place to make decisions for other people, but I think that you should leave this school while you can and save yourself. After all, a Defiled won't stop unless it gets its assigned target.” Harmony turned to go, leaving the group of teens dumbfounded. “Wait, I didn't even get your name!” Sunset Shimmer shouted, watching as the masked hero stopped. “Like I said, it doesn't matter. What matters is that you're safe now and that you need to skip town. Well at least until this member of the Defiled has been dealt with. Though I doubt he'll show up for a while.” Harmony shrugged, and continued to walk down the hall before turning down an intersecting corner and disappearing from sight. “Who was that?” Rarity said, looking after the masked hero almost with a twinkle in her eye. “Whoever it was, at least he ain't tryin' ta kill Sunset. Isn't that right y’all?” Applejack asked, turning to the other girls. “Yeah. Whoever he was, he was so awesome!” Rainbow Dash squeed before turning to Sunset Shimmer. “You okay there Sunset?” The flaming haired teen said nothing, but nodded in response as the fight that just happened weighed in on her mind. “The Defiled? What are they, and what do they want with me?” She thought, taking a nervous gulp of air. “I would say that this situation calls for a party but-” Pinkie began looking towards the hall with concern and sighing miserably, “I don't think that anyone's in the mood.” The pink girl then smiled gently before giving Sunset Shimmer a hug, which was followed suit by everyone else in the group as she remained silent. “Let's go home you guys...” She whispered, getting a quieter chorus of agreements from everyone else. Going home was something that was close on Sunset Shimmer's mind, but that was far from it. The biggest question that she had on her mind was simple. “Why me?” “What happened?” Ambition stood alone, trembling in the presence of a smaller teenage girl with long blond hair and pale white skin. Her piercing green eyes were glaring at his reflection on a mirror on the wall. “It's as I told you mistress. Some costumed freak calling himself a Kamen Rider came and kicked the crap outta me and the Larvals that you sent with me. We couldn't land a hit against the piece of shit an- What did I say about whimpering Ambition?” The teenager snapped, rounding on the Abomination. She raised an eyebrow as he remained silent, twiddling his clawed hand with his pincher together but saying nothing. “Well?” She asked, taking a step towards him. “It's unsightly mistress...” Ambition whimpered, looking away from the teenager as she took several gentle steps towards him. “That's right Ambition. If any of the others knew that you were reduced to a pathetic state such as this, they would look down on you...” She paused, gazing at Ambition's state and sighing slightly. “You weren't even fighting seriously against this... Kamen Rider were you?” “No mistress. I thought that he wasn't a threat.” Ambition answered. “Mistress Lust, what do you wish me to do?” He asked, watching the teen sigh slightly. “Do not worry Ambition.” Lust replied, rolling her eyes and getting some loose strands of her hair out of her face. “Return your attention into corrupting Sunset Shimmer. Should this... Kamen Rider interfere again you have my permission to kill him. Is that clear?” She smirked as Ambition nodded, before concentrating slightly as her eyes began to glow an eerie green light. Within a few seconds some of Ambition's wounds disappeared, the giant x that was across his chest seemed to fade as the end of his claw was regrown. “Now go, and don't come back until you've corrupted Sunset Shimmer.” Lust commanded, her eyes regaining a sense of normalcy. “Yes mistress.” Ambition replied, taking several steps backwards before disappearing and leaving Lust alone. The teen smirked before pulling out a makeup kit and opening a face mirror that was within. “Now as much as I regret to say this... The game is afoot.” “Who was that?” Sunset Shimmer remained silent as the images of the masked hero fighting off those monsters plagued her dreams. She sat alone in her bed, the apartment that she picked out closest to the nearby school offered little comfort as the shadows of the night seemed to be darker, and deeper. “It couldn't have been just a dream... It was all too real...” She whispered, climbing out of bed and walking through her door to her kitchen. Even the vast spacious outlook of her open living room seemed as dark and intimidating as a cave. “Its not like I was scared... Really. Those were just guys in fake rubber suits trying to scare me into leaving Canterlot High.” She thought, grabbing a glass from a cabinet and filling it with water. Just as the teen walked back to her bed to drift off back to sleep, she stopped. There was someone else in her bedroom, someone that didn't belong. Quickly she flipped a light switch, shielding her eyes as the bright glow of the lights in the room brightly filled it with warmth. Sunset Shimmer sighed slightly, turning the light switch off before walking back to her bed. “It must've been my-” “CREEEEAAAAAK!” The yellow teen jumped, whipping around aggressively before stopping dead in her tracks. Standing in the doorway was the creature that called itself Ambition, stepping forward and smashing through her doorway as his pinching claw was pointed at her. “I'm coming for you Sunset Shimmer. It is your turn to die.” The beast said, slowly clearing her room as the girl backed up. Behind Ambition she could see the forms of her new friends, surrounded by the white clad creatures that were with Ambition, bowled over in pain. “Don't worry, we've saved your first meal for you. After all, what's better to eat than those who you've considered your best friends?” The beast asked, cornering Sunset Shimmer as his pincher opened up and began to scratch the ceiling. “It is time for you to be reborn, Ms. Shimmer. And time for this world to end.” He declared, bringing the claw down on the girl. She tried to hold her hands to defend herself, but just before the claw connected with her body a blinding flash of light consumed everything around her. “NO!” Sunset Shimmer screamed, bolting up from her bed. Sweat ran down her face as most of the front of her night shirt was soaked. The teen looked around, her eyes scanning her dark room before leaping out of her bed and running to her door. “It-It was just a dream. That's all it was...” She said, looking out to her living room and staring out at the breaking dawn of the sun and shaking herself awake. “Get it together girl, you're not a scared little filly anymore.” She turned back to her room and walked to her alarm clock, turning it off before it could ring. “Well, it's as good a time as ever to get up and get moving...” She thought, before beginning her start for another day. “Well now dear that was certainly dreadful.” Rarity said, placing a gentle hand on one of Sunset's own. After getting cleaned up and ready for school, she immediately called the fashionista(Who happened to have everyone else's numbers at the same time and proceeded to insist on calling them over) over to a nearby Pancake House just a half of a block away from the school. “Are you sure that you didn't eat something terrible right before bed?” She asked, grimacing as the yellow teen downed another waffle in front of the others. “No, I don't normally eat before bed.” Sunset Shimmer replied, quickly scarfing down a piece of sausage. “But why not? Eating a Chocolate Cake always works for- But some of us don't have your incredible metabolism Pinkie.” Fluttershy said, cutting the pink teen off. “But that's not what I'm worried about.” She said, causing everyone to give her a curious glance. “Who was that masked person who saved us? And why did he save us anyways?” “Granny Smith told me ta' never look a gift horse in the mouth.” Applejack replied, downing what was left of her glass of apple juice. “Ah'm mighty grateful to the stranger. 'Specially chasin' them things away from us by himself.” “Plus he was totally awesome doing it too!” Rainbow Dash added, getting smirks from the whole rest of the table. “What, you were thinking it too weren't you?” She asked, silence answering her. “I was too focused in not dying Dash.” Sunset Shimmer replied glumly. The other teens fell silent as Sunset Shimmer turned to look out the window. Outside dozens of people could be seen, walking around blissfully ignorant that there was a demonic abomination running loose around the city leading a horde of other monsters out to get her. “Now I didn't mean it like that- It's fine Dash.” Sunset Shimmer said, continuing to scan the crowds. She knew that the Cyan teen meant well, but that wasn't an actual reason to go fan girl over someone trying to play hero. As the crowds continued to pass, she stopped. “No way...” She lowered an arm that the propped her head on and watched as the same lavender teen calmly walked out of a Library that sat directly across from where they presently sat. “Uh... Sunset, you okay?” Pinkie asked, watching her friends eyes follow the lavender girl. “You guys see what I see?” Sunset asked, getting everyone's attention as she pointed the girl out at the crowd. “Oh her?” Rarity asked, blinking a second as everyone else did a double take. “You are right, she does look like what Princess Twilight did when she was here.” “If Ah didn' know better, Ah'd say she was the spittin' image of her.” Applejack replied. “Oh my, hopefully we didn't cause too much trouble for her while the Princess was here.” Fluttershy whispered. Sunset Shimmer shook her head. “With the way that she carries herself-” She paused, looking at the girl and watching as her head was hung low, “I think that you guys kinda did.” She said, hearing audible gasps from the rest of the group and immediately shaking her head. “I didn't mean it like that! I just- Maybe this version of Twilight doesn't even know we exist yet!” Pinkie Pie replied. “And if she doesn't know we exist then that means that we haven't been introduced yet! And if we haven't been introduced yet that means I don't have her on my friends list and that means-” She stopped, taking a deep breath and calming down(much to the surprise of everyone at the table) before smiling, “I need to be her friend and we need to throw a party for her!” “A... Party?” Sunset Shimmer asked, grimacing slightly as Pinkie Pie nodded wildly. The others at the table shared a glance just as Pinkie Pie slid past Applejack from the booth and got up from the seat. “Yeah, end of school. At four. You'll all help right?” She asked, sounding more like a command. Sunset Shimmer looked around sharing the same, “Is she serious?,” look that everyone else did before turning back towards the window. “You do realize that we all have to get things done for school before we can even get a party together right Pinkie?” She asked, turning back to the now smiling teenager. “Yeah well duh!” Pinkie Pie replied, taking everyone by surprise. “Well of course we would have to get our homework and school stuff done before then because what fun would it be to come back home afterwards to a pile of work?” She smirked confidently, brushing several of her curly bangs out of her face before pointing slightly towards the ceiling with her finger. “Grandma told me this, “When someone is celebrating, it is rude to do work after the celebration has long since finished.” Don't worry girls, let your good ole' Aunt Pinkie handle this.” “But Pinkie Pie, most of us here are a year older than you are.” Fluttershy replied, only having it fall on deaf ears. “I wouldn't bother Fluttershy dear, I think that she's in one of her... Moods...” Rarity replied quietly as Pinkie Pie happily skipped out of restaurant and out of sight. “Well we might as well get going, school will start soon no doubt, and who's to say that we're going to be chased off by those things in rubber masks now right girls?” “Ah don't think so. 'Les of course they wanna mess with mah friends, an' even then they'd have ta git through me first.” Applejack replied before getting up from the bench. “I'm here too!” Rainbow Dash shouted, leaping up and nearly knocking over the table. “Those punks don't scare me, and if they come back I'll flatten them!” She shouted, just as she followed Applejack and Fluttershy(who was presently mortified at the concept of dealing with those monsters again) to their feet. Rarity and Sunset Shimmer were the last ones to stand, with the flaming yellow teen placing several bills on the table before following the others out of the establishment, although lagging behind slightly. “I wish I had all of your enthusiasm.” She thought quietly. As the group of teenagers left the restaurant, several tables behind where they were sitting, Ambition smirked and lowered the newspaper that he was hiding behind. “Oh?” He whispered, his eyes narrowing as he processed the new information in his mind. “So they're going to try and throw a party for a new girl at four then? Interesting.” The demon smirked, taking a sip of the coffee cup that was near him before re-concealing himself behind the paper. “Then at 4 they'll have a party that they won't soon forget!” The next few hours at school were eerily calm. At least in Sunset Shimmer's opinion. The hallway where she encountered Ambition was closed off due to the repairs that had to be made from Dash's impact against the wall. Sure, it put more people in her way getting from one class to another, but that was a small spot on the mess of problems that she now had to deal with. According to Dash, several of those impacts threw her off in Gym Class, which caused her to be benched for the whole day, while Fluttershy had to go to the Nurse because she passed out in History class. By two-thirty she felt completely miserable. Pinkie was M.I.A. at lunch, probably still trying to get things together for the party that she had planned on throwing, and Rainbow Dash had left for the Nurse's office to get Fluttershy which left her with Rarity and Applejack at the lunch table. She sat quietly, having nothing to say to either one of them until a cough from Rarity broke the silence between them. “Sunset dear, is there something wrong?” She asked. “Oh... No, no e-everything's... Everything's fine. Nope, I'm fine. Yes indeedy!” She said, giving a sheepish grin which fell short. Applejack deadpanned, lowering the apple that she had gotten from the lunch line. “Yer still upset about what happened to Dash an' Fluttershy aintcha?” She asked. Sunset Shimmer nodded. “Yeah, I am.” She answered, her voice quiet. “It's my faul- Now don't you start blamin' yerself about what happened to Dash and Fluttershy.” Applejack snapped, cutting Sunset Shimmer off. “We did what we did because we were your friends. Don' matter none 'bout what you did in th' past girl, just means that you're tryin' ta make amends. An' that makes you okay in my book.” Applejack said quietly. “Really darling, if we didn't think that you were at least trying, we would have helped push you in the right direction.” Rarity said gently. “You are making leaps and bounds from the -ahem- demon that you were at the Fall Formal.” Sunset Shimmer smiled, her face beaming as she looked up at the two friends with her at the table. “Thanks you guys. No really, I mean that. After all I've done to you, all of those mean and awful things that I've said and terrible things I've done you- AIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” A loud scream cut her off before she could finish, causing all three girls to jump to their feet. Bursting through the doors o other end of the Cafeteria came Pinkie Pie Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash all running at top speed to where they stood. Behind them were several Larvals, each hissing and growling as they gave chase. “What are they doing here?” Sunset Shimmer snapped, tensing up before leaping back as several windows shattered behind them, as several more Larvals crawled through the windows that were destroyed. As several approached, Rainbow, Pinkie and Fluttershy all stopped running and formed a wall around Sunset Shimmer. “What happened to you guys?” She asked. “We were headed to Pinkie's locker after she met up with us at the Nurse's office when these creeps showed up and chased us here!” Rainbow Dash snapped. “Guys, I don't know how your feeling but we have to keep these things off of Sunset!” “Right!” Was the chorus of shouts that met the cyan teen's ears before the Larvals leapt at them, preparing to tear them into shreds. The girls all met them in stead, each readying to beat them back as hard as they could. Rainbow Dash, who was the first to meet with the Larvals, tackled one to the ground, punching it in the face before leaping off and kicking a second. Two were then immediately on her, swinging their claws which threw her back. The teen wasn't about to give up though as she through a kick directly back at one closer to her right which sent it back towards the first two. Applejack bull-charged a group of three Larvals, knocking them right back out of the window before turning on two more. She leapt into the air, throwing a spinning back kick at one, only to have it blocked by one of its claws. The cowgirl used it as an opportunity to vault off of it onto the wall, before back flipping in between the two of them and knocking their heads together. Rarity, who was presently the closest to Sunset Shimmer, stepped back nervously, throwing a half-hearted punch at one of the Larvals only for it to miss. The beast hissed angrily, stepping forward and knocking a bottle of cider on the floor over her boots. The fashionista gasped, steam blowing out of her ears before she maniacally leapt at the Larval and pounded it senseless in the face with her fists. She repeated the leaps several times over as more and more Larvals were helpless to stop her rampage, twitching on the ground in her wake. Fluttershy was locked in the fetal position, trying her best to look invisible as several Larvals approached and walked around and over her. She heard a shriek come from above her and saw that Pinkie Pie was actually wielding a pair of lunch trays from the lunch like swords, and doing her best to keep them off of the timid teen. As soon as Pinkie Pie got to Fluttershy, she smiled and helped her up before handing her a tray. “Just think of it like whack-a-mole Flutters, it's fun!” She said, giggling like a mad man before turning on a group of six or seven more. Fluttershy shrugged, looking around as three more tried to close the gap between them and Sunset Shimmer before charging. As the chaos of the fighting continued, Sunset Shimmer could see that her new friends were fighting for her. “They're doing this for me? But why?” She thought watching as Rainbow Dash and Applejack both kicked the same Larval in the head. She turned, gasping as Rarity tried to tear off one of the claws of a Larval while beating it in the head with a chair, before resting her eyes on both Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy who were literally playing whack-a-mole with lunch-trays. But at the center of it all was the one who was after her. Ambition was calmly strolling from the Entrance to the Cafeteria, a small toothpick in his human mouth. He ignored the Larvals as they continued to advance before stopping where Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy stood. Both girls, who turned to see him at the last second raised their battered lunch-trays in an attempt to strike him, only to receive a punch and a kick to the gut which knocked them into the waiting claws of his servants. Pinkie Pie struggled as did Fluttershy, but after receiving several blows to the chest from his servants, they stopped struggling and remained still. This caught the attention of Rainbow Dash and Applejack, who both charged at Ambition like football players. The demon shrugged, casting off his human form before backhanding Rainbow Dash with his pincher. The Cyan teen was thrown back, striking a nearby column before dropping to the ground behind where at least ten Larvals were standing and falling unconscious. The demon then threw an uppercut at Applejack, knocking her back and staggering her before slashing her with his claws and drawing blood. The cowgirl fell to her knees as five slashes appeared where the bladed hands cut into her, before dropping to the ground and lying still as well. Rarity, who was the last teen standing save for Sunset Shimmer turned around, glaring at the demon before charging at him. Ambition shrugged, his claw knocking the fashionista into another column before she too joined the others in silence. Ambition just smirked, stopping within striking distance of the teen as she took a half step back into waiting Larval Claws. “It's funny isn't it?” Ambition asked, taking another step towards her and running a claw against her cheek. “How simple it is to break friendships apart just by sheer power. That's all there is to your little group of friends my dear. Now it's just me and you, and your soul is on the menu.” Sunset Shimmer shook her head. “On the menu? Really?” She asked, her face deadpanning as the demon remained silent. “I thought you were going to capture me, not kill me.” Ambition rolled his eyes. “Oh don't worry, it was just a figure of speech.” The demon smiled, a full set of razor-sharp black teeth glistened into view as he drew closer, filling Sunset's vision with his face. “Drink this look in mortal. This is the last thing that you will ever see as a free being. You're going to die, and behind the eyes of that which you smothered you will-” ZAP! ZAP ZAP ZAP! Ambition stopped, pain seared through his body as the sound of four bursts of energy struck his back. The demon turned, snarling at the sight that he beheld. “I'm sorry buddy. But souls aren't on the menu.” The masked hero from yesterday replied, lowering his weapon before it changed into a sword. “There is however a lovely piece of defeat on the menu that I simply must recommend.” Ambition snarled, turning towards Kamen Rider Harmony fully. “I do believe that no one asked for you to be here.” He watched as Harmony shrugged before beginning to advance. “Kill him. I've always wanted to go to dinner and a show.” He ordered, snapping the claw like fingers on his free hand. The Larvals that weren't busy with detaining Sunset Shimmer's friends charged with an enhanced fervor at the masked hero who decidedly gave a courteous bow. “Well now, let's get this show on the road.” Harmony said quietly, taking only a step forward before the first Larval was on him with a quick thrust of his sword, the masked hero easily punched through the shoulder of the beast before kicking it off and finishing it with a quick slash. He then turned, parrying two attacks from a separate Larval before striking it down with another slash. Two more ganged up on Harmony at the same time, causing one to grab his sword and take it from him. The hero, who casually let it go snorted slightly, before kicking the Larval in the face before retrieving the blade and finishing it with several strikes. Behind him two Larvals jumped into the air, landing on top of him before wrestling him to the ground. The hero got quickly back up, rolling one of the Larvals off of him before striking it with his blade. The other Larval tried rising with him only to get shot in the chest and in the face several times before it dropped back to the ground. The blade of his weapon, which was now folded above his gun gleamed like a polished amethyst as he held the gun aloft. Two more Larvals charged, before being felled by several bursts of energy, which cut through them and hit three more behind them. Harmony kept firing, taking out Larval after Larval and before too long the only ones that were standing were the ones that were holding up Sunset Shimmer's friends. Ambition couldn't believe his eyes, this human, this single stupidly dressed human was making a mockery of him and the forces that were underneath him. Just the thought enraged him. With a roar Ambition rounded on Harmony and charged, his eyes and thought processes filled with one thing: kill. Before anyone could react the star-shaped jewel that was on Harmony's head began to glow a faint lavender color just as his hand did, before several chairs levitated off of the ground around him. With a flick of the wrist the chairs were sent barreling into the charging demon, only appearing to have no affect on him as he came barreling down on the Hero. Calmly, Harmony sidestepped the charge, striking Ambition with the butt of his pistol before kicking him in the legs and causing the demon to slide backwards. Ambition rose to his feet and charged, his pincher open wide as he swung it downwards. Harmony caught the attack with a free hand, using the one that was occupied by the blaster to shoot at the Larvals with skilled precision. This enraged Ambition further, only to receive a kick to the chest before several more shots of lavender energy. “This... This can't be! I am Ambition, a member of the Defiled and master of your fate! How can I be beaten by a punk like you!” He roared, charging at Harmony a second time. The masked hero shrugged, reverting his pistol back into a rapier before slashing Ambition as he charged, cutting off one of his horns and reopening one of the wounds that he inflicted on the demon the last time. Ambition staggered, clutching his chest before trying to back hand Harmony. The rider, who presently caught the attack after switching to his right hand, pointed weapon at another group of Larvals who were presently holding Applejack, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash before firing, cutting through their numbers like butter. Ambition attempted to wrench himself from Harmony's grasp, only to put him in a better position to take the remaining Larvals that were holding Sunset Shimmer out with a pair of shots. “You don't seem to heed warnings well do you?” Harmony asked casually, throwing the demon away from him and into a column. “Well it doesn't matter now. Because it's time for the climax.” Ambition staggered to his feet, rounding on Harmony as he holstered his weapon. A lavender aura began to surround his body, coalescing and concentrating itself around his right leg. The demon, sensing danger staggered backwards as Harmony continued concentrating, the energy that was building continued to form around that leg. At the same time four larger magical contrails formed a magic circle underneath where Ambition was standing, creating the same symbol that Harmony had peppered throughout his costume which prevented him from moving. Sunset Shimmer could feel the size of the cosmic powers that flowed towards this hero even before the fight could truly say it was beginning. It was like he was going to take it seriously, and even before the rider swung his right leg back, she knew what was going to happen. “No... What are you doing? No wait, stop! Please!” Ambition whimpered, getting on his knees as the magical tendrils now flew back to Harmony. “And now the finisher. Harmonize the Magic.” Harmony commanded. “Rider Final Strike is online. Rider Kick Access Granted.” A digital voice replied calmly as Harmony took a deep breath. Sunset Shimmer could only watch as the masked hero leapt into the air and swung his leg into Ambition's face, knocking several teeth out in the process before a huge explosion of light and sound filled the cafeteria. As the light finally died down, Sunset Shimmer could see that she was sitting in the cafeteria on the floor with her friends, everything seemingly unscathed. As they all woke up a breath of relief escaped her lips. “S-Sunset? What happened?” Rainbow Dash asked, rubbing her head as she and Applejack helped each other and Rarity up. Pinkie and Fluttershy were also getting to their feet as tears filled the teen's eyes. Immediately the other girls ran to her, each with concerned looks on their faces. “What's wrong Sunset? What happened?” Pinkie Pie was the first to ask. “Yeah, you're not hurt are you?” Fluttershy added. “Where's that Ambition feller?” Applejack commented, looking around and seeing no sign of the demon or his cohorts. Before she could get any further however, Sunset Shimmer grabbed her and everyone else together for a big group hug, shocking everyone in the group. “Dear... Are you okay?” Rarity asked, watching Sunset Shimmer sob audibly. “Yeah... I'm just glad you're all okay.” She answered, smiling a little. “I don't know what I would do without you girls...” She whispered, loud enough for them to hear. The other teens shared a glance, before smiling and returning the hug- their faces full of warmth. As the group of teenagers began to enjoy their time together, none of them noticed a pair of green malignant eyes watching them from the shadows. “I see... Ambition must have been too weak to corrupt Sunset Shimmer. And now that opportunity is lost. I'll have to look elsewhere then for a suitable member to join out family. And find a replacement capable of dealing with this... Kamen Rider Harmony...”
Mysteries Abound, Who's the New Girl Really?Mysteries abound, Who's the New Girl Really? “Ms. Shimmer, could you please explain to the class what the Quadratic Equation is?” Sunset Shimmer smiled, looking up from her desk as everyone in Mrs. Facts Algebra class began to pay attention to her. She smiled, taking a relaxing breath before staring at a triangle drawn on the dry-erase board on the front wall of the room. “Well, the Quadratic Equation is one of three tools that is used to find out how long one side is on a triangle. You can use it for all of the sides, but it is mostly used for the longest side on the triangle.” “Excellent!” Mrs. Facts replied, her dark brown eyes twinkling slightly as she turned her back on the class. “Now as Sunset explained, the Quadratic Equation can be used to find out the sides of the triangle that you do not know. But does anyone know what the formula is for the equation? Anyone?” The door that led out into the hallway was opened. Calmly a set of footsteps could be heard as the rest of the class looked up from the lesson on the board. Standing in the doorway was a lavender skinned girl with long purple hair with a pink streak a pair of violet eyes with a purple skirt and a blue top and purple go-go boots. On the skirt was a rose colored six-pointed star that rested against a white six-pointed star with smaller, similar stars around it. The girl stepped forward, grabbing a free marker from the dry-erase board and wrote out something on the board, shocking the rest of the class. “The answer is x equals negative b, plus or minus the square root of b squared minus four a multiplied by c all over two a. And it is another way of solving a x squared plus b x plus c. Though it may be the easiest way to solve the missing side, it can get messy and usually isn't recommended to use all of the time.” The class remained silent, out of shock as the girl placed the dry erase marker back on the board. She picked it back up however, along with the eraser, and erased a small portion of a previous answer given before filling it out with a much cleaner script than what was presented. “I'm sorry, but that just kind of bugged me. That last problem with factoring could have been done so much easier, and it's a good thing that I'm here to point that out. It's fixed now.” She finished, setting the eraser and the marker back down on the dry erase board. “Young lady... who are you and what are you doing here in my class?” Mrs. Facts asked, eyeing the strange girl closely. “Oh!” The girl gasped, blushing slightly. “I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to be so rude.” She said, opening the purple backpack that was on her back before riffling through it and pulling out a sheet of paper. After a few moments she passed it over to the teacher, who looked over it and nodded. “Class, I'd like to introduce you to your... new classmate.” She said quietly, looking back up at the teenager. “Hello everyone. My name is Twilight Sparkle, and I'm glad to be a part of your class.” The girl said with a smile. “I hope that we can get along!” Silence fell harshly on the classroom as Twilight looked around. No one seemed to register that she was a new member of the class, let alone get past the clean up she did on the board. After a few moments, Mrs. Facts smiled, walking towards the lavender girl and the class. “Now... That was an, interesting introduction wasn't it class?” She asked, still receiving no response. “Eh-heh-heh-heh, Twilight, why don't you sit there, in that desk-” Her hand pointed to an empty desk behind where Sunset Shimmer sat, “And we'll get back to today's assignment okay?” As Twilight Sparkle walked to her seat, Sunset Shimmer watched the rest of the class talk amongst each other in hushed whispers. Some of them even turning their gaze at Sunset Shimmer herself before silencing at the sound of Mrs. Facts slapping the dry-erase board. The class all returned back to attention, before the math teacher turned her back on them. “Now, before Twilight came in, we were discussing the Quadratic Equation yes? Lets see who can solve this one.” She began, drawing another triangle on the board. Sunset Shimmer rolled her eyes, somehow knowing that class just got a whole lot longer. “I heard about what happened.” Lust remained quiet, her face glued to a screen as the pictures of a red-suited warrior appeared on the screen. She could feel the presence of another one of the Defiled, however it was not as new as Ambition's was. “Ambition was just weak. He didn't have the strength to take his target down with interference.” Lust answered, spinning around on the Library rolling chair. The being that was behind her smirked, a gentle, “Clink” in her steps as it advanced into the light, changing with a dark brownish aura. Before her eyes was a dark purple male with a small frame and blue hair. The uniform-like shirt and pants that he wore were well pressed and cleaned to perfection as a pair of black dress shoes completed his well presented look. Lust could see a mischievous glint in his eyes as the teen bowed in her direction. “Mistress Lust, I don't see a reason to be alarmed.” The teen said calmly. “I know my target, and I know her weaknesses. She craves what I can give, and I can corrupt her before our little problem gets even bigger.” Lust shook her head, rising from the rolling chair. “Covetous, don't underestimate this... Kamen Rider. We don't know what he's totally capable of yet, and have no idea the extent of his powers. Keep a low profile, and strike only when your sure that your target is alone. Is that clear?” The teen known as Covetous bowed again. “Of course Mistress. There is nothing that I wouldn't do to get a chance to add a member to our folds.” He smiled, rising from his bow before taking a half-step backwards, almost disappearing with the shadows. “We'll have a newer member to the family that will replace the one we lost when Ambition fell. I promise you that.” Lust said nothing as Covetous disappeared from sight, turning on her heel and returning her gaze to the screen. “See that you don't. I don't want another incident on our hands. Our master isn't... As forgiving as I am.” She thought, looking over the title on the screen that was labeled: “Kamen Rider”. “So then what happened?” As soon as the Lunch bell rang, Sunset Shimmer dashed to the Cafeteria as soon as she could, meeting up with Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie halfway. After telling them about what had happened in her Algebra class, the flaming haired teen was retelling the story to Rarity, Applejack and Fluttershy. “She just sat down and went quiet.” Sunset Shimmer replied. “I didn't hear anything from her.” She stopped, watching as the girl in question quickly finished her lunch before calmly placing the tray onto a pile nearby and dashing out of the lunchroom. “She seems like... Like- Like the exact opposite of Princess Twilight?” Rarity asked. Sunset Shimmer blinked. “Ah don' see it Rarity.” Applejack replied. “Come on, you surely must have a finer eye for detail than that.” Rarity replied, as the other girls remained silent. “You mean you didn't notice? The way she carried herself, the way she dressed! Heck, there's even the way that she sounded in Sunset Shimmer's story!” There was a loud slam from the doors at the other end of the Cafeteria which caused everyone to look up. “ALL RIGHT, WHERE IS SHE?” Silence echoed throughout the room as the speaker stepped forward, a light bluish-green teenager with golden hair and golden eyes that wore a pair of golden yellow sneakers with a turquoise jacket and white pants, scanning the crowd like a being possessed. “Where's that little traitor who got me kicked off of the squad?” Rainbow Dash stood up, glaring at the speaker. “I didn't get you kicked off the squad Lightning Dust. You did that to yourself when you hurt my friends.” The pair of teenagers cleared the cafeteria in a matter of seconds as several students got out of their way, throwing punches at each other, connecting with their respective fists before stopping. No one said a word, and none of the teachers in the room made a move to stop them either as both girls stood in the middle of the room, glaring at each other. “You always did have that fist that could break anything Dash.” Lightning Dust complimented. “And you were always the hot headed jerk Dust. But you got through it I see.” Rainbow Dash countered, lowering her fist as Lightning Dust did the same. Sunset Shimmer rose, watching with curiosity as both Lightning Dust and Rainbow Dash walked back over towards the table where they sat at, arms wrapped around each others shoulders like friends until they sat down. “Girls, I think you remember Lightning Dust?” Rainbow Dash asked, looking around as the others save for Sunset Shimmer nodded. “Yeah, your that one feller who tried ta git Dash kicked off of the squad.” Applejack said darkly. “Well things change don't they?” Lightning Dust replied, putting a hand behind her head. “They don't when you nearly beat your supposed best friend half to death.” Rarity countered. “That was us just taking out our aggressions against each other. Nothing too personal.” “Okay what about rigging the supply room in the Gym in sophomore year to have the ball lockers fall on me when I went in to get Party Supplies?” Pinkie Pie snapped, glaring at Lightning Dust. “Well I admit that was a little crazy, but no hard feelings right?” Lightning Dust asked. “Oh well then what about the time- Okay guys, enough with the drilling.” Rainbow Dash said calmly, taking a deep breath. “She's changed, some of the Junior Varsity members can vouch for her. Heck, even Coach Spitfire can actually vouch for her.” “But she's still- I'm still what?” Lightning Dust snapped, cutting Pinkie Pie off. “I know I'm an ass, but I'm trying to get passed that. I was just here visiting a friend.” She sighed, getting negative glances from each of her friends before shaking her head. “You know, it's whatever. Listen, Dash I'm gonna need some practice for the upcoming Junior Varsity Game this weekend. You think that you can help me with that?” “Practice? Lightning Dust, your the best player on the Junior Varsity team!” Rainbow Dash nearly shouted. “I know... Look, I don't think that I'm good enough for the game and I wanna go against a Varsity player. Come on, you gotta help me.” Lightning Dust begged, clapping her hands together and dropping to her knees on the floor. “I'm serious here, we lose this game it's gonna be on my head.” Sunset Shimmer watched as Rainbow Dash began to sweat, seeing from the corner of her eye as everyone else there had ranging looks of disapproval towards the cyan athlete. However, as disapproving as everyone else was being, Lightning Dust could be sympathized with. “I dunno, you know what everyone else here thinks about you right?” Rainbow Dash asked quietly, as Sunset Shimmer saw her nod. “Yeah... I was kinda rough wasn't I?” She asked. “Rough doesn't even begin to- I think that she's being sincere.” The whole table fell silent, turning towards Sunset Shimmer as she spoke up. The flaming headed teen smiled a little, though it was slightly masked underneath her firm look. “What ever do you mean Sunset?” Rarity asked. “Yeah, she's just gonna be mean and try to get Dashie kicked off of the soccer team- I am not!” Lightning Dust snapped, cutting Pinkie Pie off. “Look, Dash, if you want to help me practice I'll be outside at the soccer fields after school. Come and find me if you want to help our team win against South Central.” With that she stood up, storming off and leaving the others at the table. “Lightning Dust, wait!” Rainbow Dash shouted, getting to her feet. She stopped, turning towards the rest of the group before shaking her head. “You guys can really be jerks sometimes.” She said finally before chasing after Lightning Dust. Silence fell over the table as Rainbow Dash left, forcing the mood and the temperature nearby to fall by several degrees. “You guys were being too hard on her.” Sunset Shimmer said finally, looking at the doors that Rainbow Dash and Lightning Dust disappeared behind. “But you must understand Sunset, Lightning Dust and Rainbow Dash have... Well...” Rarity began, trying to find the words that wouldn't come to her. “They have a history together.” Fluttershy whispered, looking up from her empty lunch tray. A single tear escaped from her eye as Pinkie Pie put an arm around her shoulder, comforting the timid girl as she began to speak. “Before any of us met, Lightning Dust and Rainbow Dash were almost the closest of friends. Even before she met me, Dash and Dust were two of a trio that were infamous for schooling all of the rival kickball teams back in elementary school.” “Trio? I thought it was just Lightning Dust and Rainbow Dash.” Sunset Shimmer said quietly. “Well, you see Rainbow Dash also had another friend in one of the toughest, meanest girls in school – Gilda Griffin.” Pinkie said quietly as Fluttershy shuddered in her arm, trembling as tears ran down her face. “Gilda was almost as bad as Lightning Dust now, but it was like they were sisters. You know completely inseparable.” Rarity passed a handkerchief to Fluttershy who used it to dry her eyes before picking up where Pinkie left off. “Well, something happened between the two of them that broke Lightning Dust. None of us except for Rainbow Dash know what had happened, but something happened to Gilda which caused Lightning Dust to snap. I won't point any fingers or name any names but, Lightning Dust looked up to Gilda as a role model, almost like Rainbow Dash does to the Soarin' and Spitfire.” “You mean the sports coaches for Canterlot High?” Sunset Shimmer asked, watching Rarity nod. “Ah heard a rumor that Gilda got into an accident, an' picked a fight with the wrong person.” Applejack said quietly. “Though Ah can't be fer sure.” “Listen guys, you do realize that you're giving me a second chance right? The girl who went all Diabolical Demon Super villain chick who wanted to take over another dimension?” Sunset Shimmer asked, watching everyone else at the table nod. “Well then maybe whatever Lightning Dust did is probably forgivable in its own right as well.” “Darling I don't think that would be possible.” Rarity replied. “And why not?” Sunset Shimmer asked. “She probably blames us for what happened...” Fluttershy whispered, now leaning on Pinkie Pie's shoulder as the Pink teen held her close. Sunset Shimmer shook her head, standing up and turning towards the door. “Look you guys may not like her, but I'm going to go see what the real problem is.” She declared, stretching slightly. “Maybe we'll get this all sorted out before too long, and rebuild these bridges that were burnt long ago.” “Sugarcube Ah don't think that's gonna be possible.” Applejack said calmly. “Well it doesn't hurt to try. Pinkie, you might want to put an extra invite out for Twilight's party. Lightning Dust is going to need it.” Sunset Shimmer said confidently. “What are you going to do?” Pinkie asked, feeling Fluttershy look up at the yellow teenager as she started walking out towards the door. “I'm going to do the best I can.” Sunset Shimmer replied within an earshot. “Using what you guys taught me.” The other teens shared an incredulous look with each other, before looking up and watching as Sunset Shimmer sauntered out of the cafeteria and out of sight. None of them said a word before they all jumped to their feet and ran after her, leaving most of their uneaten lunch behind. “I just hope that she knows what she's doing.” Pinkie Pie said quietly. “We all do Pinkie. We all do.” Rarity added, worry filling her voice. Quietly Lightning Dust stood alone, several small tears dripping from her reflection's eyes in the bathroom mirror. “Stupid Rainbow Dash and her stupid friends... She's forgotten all about you. She's, “Moved on,” now that she's hanging out with that group of chicks that really don't give two- “Lightning Dust? You in here?” The teen looked up from the mirror, seeing Rainbow Dash standing in the bathroom doorway, a hand on her hip. “What do you want?” Lightning Dust snapped, watching as Rainbow Dash stepped forward. “I want to help you with practice.” Rainbow Dash said quietly, stepping into the bathroom. “No you don't, your spending time with a bunch of- You've got it all wrong Dust.” Rainbow Dash said, cutting Lightning Dust off. “It wasn't because of them that I wasn't there that day. They wanted me to go, wanted me to help you.” “Well then how come you didn't show?” Rage filled Lightning Dust's eyes as she rounded on Rainbow Dash. “I thought that we were a team? You know, the Screaming Eagles? The best things that ever happened to the school district?” “We still are Dust.” Rainbow Dash said quietly, several tears forming in her eyes. “If you would just listen- No you listen Dash.” Lightning Dust snapped. “They're holding you back. And if you can't see it that way then there's only going to be one Screaming Eagle. And she's going to go down in a blaze of glory.” She snapped, storming out of the bathroom only to have Rainbow Dash grab her arm. “Dust, don't do this.” Rainbow Dash said calmly. “Remember the good times we had together. We're friends forever remember?” Lightning Dust rolled her eyes and wrenched her arm from Rainbow Dash's grasp. “Like I said, if you can't see it that they're holding you back then I'm going to go down alone.” She hissed. “And its going to be your fault.” With that she stormed out of the bathroom, leaving Rainbow Dash alone. The cyan teen sighed, her chest hurt as though Lightning Dust's words were a slap to the face. She turned to leave, only to meet the eyes of her friends, each of them giving her a comforting gaze. “You guys...” “It's the nerves getting to her.” Sunset Shimmer said quietly, turning towards Lightning Dust's retreating form. “How long's it been since her first major game?” “Almost a year.” Rainbow Dash replied, stepping out of the bathroom. “She needs help, and I don't want to see her crumble. You guys understand right?” She asked, watching each of the other teens nod. “Great, well then you heard her. We need to help her practice.” And with that she dragged them off towards the Soccer field. “Excuse me?” The Library, which Sunset Shimmer had insisted they go to during their free period before school was over, was one of the few places where raising one's voice was common and was one of the places where she figured to help Lightning Dust give a leg-up on the competition for Saturday's game. While Rainbow Dash Applejack and Pinkie Pie had class, she Rarity and Fluttershy were busy scouring the sports section to get tips on how to improve ones soccer game. This plan was interrupted when someone started shouting from the other end of the hall. “I'm sorry young lady, but there's nothing I can do. We don't have anything for- But what about standards? What about the Dewey Decimal System? Where is the organization?” The three teens looked up watching Twilight Sparkle, who was completely livid at the moment, berate and yell at Page Turner, one of the Student Librarians in charge of the Library. Page Turner was currently trying to make herself as small as possible, her tan skin blushing furiously as Twilight continued to shout at her, which caused Sunset Shimmer to stand up. “Hey, leave her alone.” She snapped, causing the raging teenager to look up. Sunset Shimmer could see fire in her eyes, almost if it were an insult to human decency for her not to yell at the defenseless librarian. “It's not her fault the organization is the way it is. You got a problem, take it up with Mr. Stroke.” “Sunset... What are you doing?” Fluttershy whispered. “That's a question I myself would like to ask.” Twilight snapped, glaring at Sunset Shimmer. “You would stand up for someone who commits atrocities to the written word?” She snapped, pulling out a book that appeared to be recently dried from being chewed on, with some of the teeth marks still visible. “It's not her fault that she wasn't here when that book got damaged.” Sunset Shimmer replied, looking down at the title: Historical Facts about the Lone West: Battles Fought in 1839, before shaking her head. “It's not even like someone needs that book anyways. We're long since past that.” “Long since past that... LONG SINCE PAST THAT?” Twilight roared, slamming the book down on the desk. Steam fumed from her ears as she turned on her heel. She appeared to be thinking something until a smile crept onto her face. “Well then, I must apologize Ms. Turner.” She said, a certain forced joy on her face. “I didn't really mean to be so rude. It was uncalled for.” “I-It's o-o-okay. M-My mistake...” Page Turner whispered, relaxing slightly. Twilight turned, her back facing the Librarian and Sunset Shimmer as a smile graced her face. “Don't worry, this Library and the true path to harmony are connected. You can make it work out if you reorganize. However, it won't be easy and you will struggle. But soon you too can stand in the sun.” Before either of them had a chance to react, Twilight Sparkle left them as she nearly skipped out the Library door. “What was that about?” Rarity asked, walking up to Sunset Shimmer. “I don't know Rarity. Something's off about this world's Twilight Sparkle, and I don't know what.” Sunset Shimmer replied. “We got everything to help Rainbow Dash with Lightning Dust's practice session?” She asked. “Of course. As much as it pains me to say it, but you were right about Lightning Dust.” Rarity replied. “I just hope that she's okay with the rest of us helping her.” Fluttershy whispered, as Sunset Shimmer turned around and smiled. “It's going to be fine you guys. We're just going to give her a push in the right direction.” Sunset Shimmer replied with a smirk. “Besides, that's going to be the easy part. What I'm more worried about is this world's Twilight Sparkle. Why would she mention the, “True path to harmony,”? It's not like she's a speaker for it in the first place.” Lightning Dust sat alone, her study hall class quiet and empty as everyone else left to go home. Rainbow Dash had told her in the only class that they shared together, English, that she had something special planned for practice which caused the teenager's face to brighten significantly. “Wonder what Dash has planned?” Lightning Dust thought, twiddling a pencil in her fingers as she stared blankly at the ceiling. “It can't be anything less than awesome from my fellow Screaming Eagle.” There was a cough, which caused her to look up, her eyes narrowing as she did so. “Well well well. I thought that athletes spent their time on the soccer field.” A grainy voice said from the doorway. The owner of the voice, a scrawny looking dark purple teen that wore a near-business suit minus the sport jacket stepped forward, his blue hair taking on a wild appearance as he stepped forward. “But then again, there's the thing about being an athlete, they don't care about anything except getting better,” He smirked, his eyes narrowing as Lightning Dust rose from her seat. “Especially when the athlete is a being with such skill as you my dear.” “Who are you.” Lightning Dust said firmly. “What do you want?” The teen chuckled, advancing slowly on Lightning Dust as she backed up, giving the stranger plenty of room. “Oh my dear Lightning Dust, I hope that I do not frighten you. You see, I am a part of a very selective club and we want you to join our Soccer team.” “Soccer Club? You don't look like your a part of the Wondercolts.” Lightning Dust snapped, watching the stranger laugh a little. “Oh my dear, you don't know a manager when you see one?” The teen asked, snapping his fingers as a briefcase and a card appeared in a blaze of fire on a desk at Lightning Dust's right. “I can give you the power that you crave. However, you just need to sign this card and everything will be squared away.” Lightning Dust picked up the card, looking it over and flipping it over in her hand. It was all black and covered in dark, blood red writing which unnerved the athlete. The briefcase on the desk was also an unnerving black, and seemed to radiate a miasma of something foul that she couldn't put her finger on. “The Chaotic Arms Soccer Team?” Lightning Dust read, looking across the top of the card. “What do you guys do exactly?” “We are the number one team in the state, with players hailing from every school in every county.” The teenager replied, his smile getting more and more crooked. “We have everyone except for you, and without you, our team cannot go national.” Lightning Dust turned her back on the teen, continuing to look over the card. “And why do you need me? I'm just a Junior Varsity Soccer player.” “Because you are special my dear.” The, “Representative,” replied watching Lightning Dust shrug. “You have a thirst for acceptance that I haven't seen in all my long years of maintaining contacts for the club. Don't you want to be better than this? Don't you want to have what your friends have? What Rainbow Dash has?” Lightning Dust stopped, a chill ran down her spine as she turned back towards the representative. “I never told you anything about Rainbow Dash.” “I prefer to get... Extensive background information on potential clients before inviting them to join our organization.” The representative replied. “Like how I know in the third grade you wet yourself during the talent show trying and abysmally failing to sing the National Anthem where as Rainbow Dash took the best action for reenacting her favorite super hero moment. Or how about the time that you failed try-outs for the middle school Varsity team and took out your rage on Fluffle Puff, who happened to be nearby and tried to extend the hand of friendship to you.” “Stop it, that's not who I am.” Lightning Dust snapped, glaring at the representative. “Or how about the time during the last Fall Formal you dumped one Lightning Dawn, an exchange student from another school district, into the dumpster because you thought that it would be funny? Maybe I could recollect the time you threw Sweetie Belle into the lockers in Gym Class, leaving her trapped in there for a whole day?” “Stop! I didn't mean any of those things, I was just an- Angry? Well that's an excellent quality to have on this team my dear.”The Representative interrupted, his crooked smile growing to an inhuman size which forced Lightning Dust to step back. “A soul that's as stained as yours is, would make this team invincible!” The look in his eyes turned into nothing short of something manic, striking a touch of fear in Lightning Dust which caused her to drop the card in her hands. “What about the time you beat Rainbow Dash senseless? All because youACK!” A soccer ball smacked the representative in the head, causing him to bowl over. Lightning Dust blinked, seeing Rainbow Dash behind him as the soccer ball returned to her hands, resting calmly on her hip. “Dude, if the girl says to stop, she means stop. It's not your business.” She smirked as the representative staggered towards the wall, giving Lightning Dust a chance to run towards the rainbow haired teen. “Dash, what are you doing here?” Lightning Dust asked. “I was just here to get you Dust.” Rainbow Dash replied, smirking a little. “Can't let one of the Eagles down.” Lightning Dust smiled, rushing over to where Rainbow Dash was before turning towards the representative. “Yeah, sorry buddy but I'm not interested.” She snapped, causing him to turn before ripping the card in half. “Let's go Dash. Maybe get some practice in before we have to go.” Rainbow Dash nodded, taking Lightning Dust's arm and wrapping her in a hug as they walked out the door. “So, we've got some major practice to do this week before the big game in a couple of days.” Rainbow Dash said, leading Lightning Dust down the hall towards the Soccer fields. “So, you ready to whip South Central?” “Yeah!” Lightning Dust cheered. “I can't hear you!” Rainbow Dash said, smiling as she got to the door, “Are you ready to whip South Central?” “All right Dash, I'm ready. Let's just get this pr- NO ONE REFUSES ME!” Both teenagers turned and let out shrieks of terror. Behind them was a suit of metal armor, or at least that's what the figure looked like under the pulsing veiny skin that covered most of its body. A pair of blood red eyes peered from out of the helmet, which was reminiscent of a Roman Centurion's, as the creature wielded a blood red crossed battle axe one would find decorating a heavy metal album cover. The beast's blood red cape fluttered behind it as it's other arm, which appeared to be melted into the form of a jagged blade, pointed directly at them. “D-D-Dash...” Lightning Dust stammered, staring at the beast in front of them. “W-W-What is that?” “I don't know, but heck if we're going to stay here and find out!” Rainbow Dash answered, taking Lightning Dust by the hand and bolting through the now open door. “YOU WILL JOIN OUR CAUSE, LIGHTNING DUST!” The beast roared, chasing after the pair with his axe held high. “There, now are all the balls ready for practice Pinkie?” Rarity asked. “Yepperoony! Are the Drinks ready to go Applejack?” Pinkie asked, looking up from her pile of soccer balls towards Applejack who was busy setting apple cider and lemonade on the table. “'Course they ahre Pinkie. Ready with the extra goals 'Shy?” Applejack asked. “Yeah, I've made it just like Rainbow Dash wanted us too.” She looked up to Sunset Shimmer, who was presently dragging another mock-goal from the shed. “We just need one more goal post set and we'll be ready isn't that right Sunset Shimmer?” The flaming haired teen nodded, dragging the post into position before securing it with a relieved grunt. After wiping the sweat from her brow, Sunset Shimmer looked around, smiling as everything was going exactly according to plan. “Now all we need are Rainbow Dash and Lightning Dust and we can get this practice started.” She said walking over to the drink stand that Applejack had set up and grabbing a bottle of cider that the cowgirl passed her. “It was nice a Coach Soarin' ta let us use the soccer field fer practice.” Applejack commented, watching as Sunset Shimmer guzzled half of the bottle. “Speakin' of practice... Where's Rainbow Dash and Lightning Dust? They should be here by now.” “Rainbow Dash is probably trying really really hard to patch things up with Lightning Dust.” Pinkie Pie replied, hope in her voice. “Maybe we should too I mean- WOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAH, GANG WAY!” The voice of Rainbow Dash could be heard clear from the soccer field as she and Lightning Dust appeared to be bolting as fast as they could from what could only be described as an ancient soldier made of skin. The girls all looked up, some gasping in shock as more Larvals followed the creature as it pursued the pair onto the pitch. They stopped, gulping audibly as several Larvals all appeared behind the group, their eyes appearing hungry to the human teenagers. “Dash, what did you do?” Rarity exclaimed as the group of beasts surrounded them. “Hey, its not her fault that they're after me.” Lightning Dust replied, as the group formed a circle around her. “Besides, I don't need you guys- We've kinda dealt with these things before Lightning Dust. Just stay behind us and you'll be fine.” Fluttershy said in a reassuring voice. The soldier stepped forward, knocking several Larvals aside before chuckling audibly. “You think that you can stand in my way?” It said, as a dripping blood red foam left from his mouth. “Please, get out of the way and no one will get hurt. I am Covetous, the Soldier of Power, and Master of Desires! I'm the- Before the soldier could say any more, a soccer ball slammed into his head, knocking him sideways and staggering him. He turned, a snarl building in his throat which stopped at what he saw. “So, you're him huh?” The demon asked, staring at the figure with interest. “Who me?” The figure who was presently standing near the other goal on the soccer field shrugged, his scarf fluttering in the breeze that picked up from the area. “I'm just a drifter, looking for the true meaning of Harmony.” Kamen Rider Harmony answered, lowering his arms and cracking his knuckles. “Now, let's get this show on the road.” Covetous said nothing, raising his axe high above his head as the Larvals began to charge. Harmony remained where he stood, waiting as the monsters came at him with all intents to kill. “You mean he's going to fight those things?” Lightning Dust asked, just as Harmony and the first Larval met. “It seems that's what he does.” Sunset Shimmer whispered, staring at the scene, watching as the first Larval fell with a quick series of punches to the face. As the first Larval fell, three more tried to gain the upper and bum-rushed Harmony all at once. The masked hero leapt backwards, drawing his weapon in it's pistol form and fired several shots at the three, dropping them instantly before roundhouse kicking a fourth behind him. Two more leapt at him, swinging their claws wildly only to have them blocked by his sword and thrown to the ground. Covetous, who was busy trying to get at Harmony, threw aside three more Larvals before swinging his axe directly at the masked hero. Harmony rolled out of the way just in time, using his momentum to cut through and cleave several other Larvals nearly in half. He then turned, grabbing the now bladed-weapon with both of his hands before charging at Covetous, knocking the soldier off balance with a well timed guard from his blade before kicking him in the gut causing him to slide backwards. “Well now, you are a really good fighter. Something that I'll have to make note of when I take your head as my trophy.” He said confidently, swinging his axe with his free hand only to have it miss completely before stabbing at the masked hero with his other arm. Harmony took the attack in stride, knocking the blade aside before slashing across Covetous' chest, before following it up with another kick that sent him sprawling into a group of Larvals. “Really? You're going to take my head as a trophy?” Harmony scoffed, kicking two more Larvals before converting his blade back into a blaster. The Masked hero then pointed the weapon at several Larvals as they advanced towards Sunset Shimmer and her friends, pulling the trigger as several rays of lavender energy streaked towards their targets, dropping them before the Larvals could turn around. There was a loud roar, which forced Harmony to turn and do a back flip landing just out of reach from Covetous' axe before quickly converting his blaster back into a blade and crossing it with the demonic soldier's own. The soldier's neck audibly cracked as he lifted his axe, the rusted metal blade could be seen from anywhere on the field, but before he could bring it down several goal posts smashed into his side like arrows which knocked him into the air. Harmony, who's top most star on his costume glowed the same Lavender Light, threw his arm out as the same goal posts that were wrapped in the same aura smashed into Covetous a second time. But before they could be picked up for a third time, a wave of red energy split the posts, knocking Harmony back to the ground. Much to the group of teens surprise, the continuous assault of the Goal posts didn't appear to do much to the soldier, leaving him with a couple of bruises. “You may have taken this round Harmony, but next time you won't be so lucky.” Covetous bellowed, staggering off as the remaining Larvals followed suit. Those that were on the ground exploded, leaving plumes of black smoke which rose from their fallen bodies. A wave of relief washed over the teenagers, which caused them to run over to Harmony. “Thanks a bunch!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed, smiling as Harmony turned to face them. “You saved our lives!” Harmony shrugged. “Really now? Didn't I tell you that you should have hightailed it outta here the last time? You don't seem to learn.” Harmony said quietly, turning and walking away. “Wait! Who are you?” Rarity asked, causing Harmony to stop for a moment. “Didn't I say it before?” Harmony asked, an air of cockiness in his voice. “My name doesn't matter. I'm just a drifter in search of the true meaning of Harmony.” Harmony replied, turning away again. “How can we find you though?” Sunset Shimmer asked, causing Harmony to stop. “In case we get into trouble again.” “You had better hope that you don't need my help girls. It would be better off for all of us if we stayed well away from each other.” Harmony replied, before waving his hand off in the air and walking off, leaving them on the soccer field. “Uh... What was that all about?” Rainbow Dash asked, walking over to the others. “I mean, I've heard about being cool and all but this guy wasn't even close to the definition of cool.” “But that's one problem we're just going to have to put under the table for now.” Fluttershy replied, turning towards Lightning Dust as she kicked the soccer ball that hit Covetous in the head to the side and sighed deeply. “She's in grave danger if she's left alone.” “So let's go talk to- I know what you guys are trying to do and you can save it.” Lightning dust snapped, turning away from the group. “It doesn't matter much anyways, I'm not exactly the model of a student and no one would care if we win or lose.” “Dust... You know that's- Save it for the funeral Dash.” Lightning Dust said, cutting Rainbow Dash off. “It doesn't matter, I'm not cut out for this. And you have friends that are a lot better for you then I am.” Several tears were in her eyes as she began to tremble. “It looks like the Screaming Eagles are dead after all.” She whispered, before running off. “Lightning Dust wait!” Rainbow Dash shouted after her retreating form. She stopped, feeling a gentle hand on her shoulder and turned to see Fluttershy's smiling face. “Go after her Dash, she can't be alone.” Fluttershy said quietly, smiling as everyone else nodded in her direction. “Thanks Flutters. You guys, you'll understand right?” Rainbow Dash asked, before turning after Lightning Dust. “Well then I'm off. Pinkie, I'm gonna have to ask you to hold that party until the weekend okay? There's gonna be someone else that I need to invite.” “Okey Dokey Lokie Dashie!” Pinkie Pie replied, giving Rainbow Dash a thumbs up. “You just give me the name when you're done and I'll mail out the invites this Friday.” Rainbow Dash smiled, before beginning to run. “That's a promise!” She shouted, following where Lightning Dust went. “That's a promise. One that I intend to keep.”
Heralds of the Defiled, The Avatar of Lust-Several Years ago- Lightning Dust kept running. It was all she had, something that no one else could take away from her. A home away from home. People who were as close to her as one could be without being family. “Lightning Dust your late!” Her voice was harsh, but it was the kind of harsh that seemed to keep to a minimal level. The preteen smiled, looking up at the speaker, her golden eyes wild with excitement. “So Gilda, you goin' to Canterlot High next year?” “Nah, wouldn't want to mess up my reputation with the Griffon's.” She answered. “Mom and Dad are expecting me to go to to Iron Spire, to get my technical degree. But I'm only going for the soccer team.” Lightning Dust and an older teenager, fresh out of middle school who wore a khaki jacket, black t-shirt and khaki jeans with a pair of aviator goggles sat down on the front steps of Canterlot Middle School. The sun was setting in the sky, but the moment seemed like it could last forever. “Rainbow Dash must've really done something stupid to get detention this late.” Gilda commented. “What was that?” Both Gilda and Lightning Dust looked up as Rainbow Dash stood behind them both, her arms folded over each other as a frown filled her face. “I said that you must've done something stupid to get detention this late Dash.” Gilda repeated, sliding over closer to Lightning Dust as Rainbow Dash sat down. “Yeah, well that's what the Principal said.” Rainbow Dash snarled, rolling her eyes. “It wasn't my fault that the stink bomb was there. Honest.” “And that's why you make a bad liar Dash.” Gilda said confidently. “But don't worry, the Screaming Eagles don't need that BS to actually be a good team.” Both Rainbow Dash and Lightning Dust looked to Gilda with confusion written on their faces. “Screaming Eagles?” They repeated. “Yeah, Screaming Eagles.” Gilda said a second time, smiling before standing up. “It's going to be our team name, for when we get into the big leagues.” She turned, seeing the smiling faces of both Rainbow Dash and Lightning Dust. “We're not going to take anything from anybody, and even if they try to make us, we'll kick their asses won't we?” “Yeah!” Both middle schoolers shouted. “Heh, Screaming Eagles then?” Gilda asked extending her hand out in front of the other two. “Screaming Eagles.” Rainbow Dash said, placing her hand on top of Gilda's. “Screaming Eagles forever!” Lightning Dust cheered, placing her hand on top of the others before throwing her hand up with everyone else's. “Well said you guys.” Gilda said, turning her back on them. “Now, let's get some grub and get you home. There's no sense in being in a team when you aren't energized for more.” She said, walking down the steps with both girls in tow. “All Right!” Rainbow Dash shouted. “I finally have a group of friends...” Lightning Dust thought to herself, smiling as Gilda led them off of the school grounds. “Do you see me mommy? I have friends of my own.” “So... the Soldier of Power huh?” “Mistress... I didn't mean to- “Silence.” Lust snapped, rounding on Covetous as they both stood in an empty hallway. “You know how I hate failure, but I am willing to be merciful. Especially...” She paused, raising an eyebrow as a lavender skinned girl ran past an intersecting hallway, her clothing covered in sweat. “Especially since this Kamen Rider Harmony has put a dampener on our plans.” “What is it that you wish to be done about him?” Covetous asked, watching as Lust raised a hand to her lips. “Do not worry about the rider. Your next attack will begin in earnest, so be prepared.” Lust replied, turning back to the flesh-covered soldier. “I'll handle the Rider. You get prepared for your second chance at corrupting the target.” She smiled, taking a few steps into the darkness of the hall before turning her back on Covetous, her eyes turning into a solid green as a ball of emerald flame erupted in front of her. “Oh and Covetous,” “Yes mistress Lust?” Covetous asked, looking hopeful at the teenager's smaller form. “You only get this one chance.” She replied before stepping into the flames and leaving Covetous alone. The demonic-looking soldier reverted back to his human form, wiping the nervous sweat from his brow before stroking his chin slightly. “Mistress Lust is giving me a second chance to take care of Lightning Dust. However I'll need to proceed with caution, she isn't known to give out a third.” He thought before snapping his fingers. “There is a better way though...” He whispered, turning around and leaving the hallway with a smile on his face. It had been a day since the attack, and no one had seen or heard a trace of Lightning Dust the following day. Rainbow Dash was getting more and more worried, drawing concern from everyone else the following day as she sat down. The rainbow haired teen looked up at the cafeteria door constantly, only to jump at the slightest sounds from several students behind her. “Rainbow Dash, it's okay.” Fluttershy said quietly. “We'll find her, we just need to I know I know.” Rainbow Dash snapped, causing Fluttershy to jump from her seat. “S-Sorry. Didn't mean to snap.” She said, blushing a little before retuning to her hawk-like watch on the door. “If you don't mind me asking Rainbow Dash, how did you two become friends?” Sunset Shimmer asked. The cyan teen turned towards Sunset Shimmer as everyone else at the table's interest was piqued. “It's kind of a funny story really...” She said, a faint chuckle escaping her as she ran a hand through her hair. “It's okay if you don't want to say anything.” Rarity said quietly. “No no, its-” Rainbow Dash paused, trying to gather her thoughts as she stared at the ceiling. “It's fine really. I mean, Lightning Dust is in danger and she's... Well... She's like a sister to me you know?” Rainbow Dash paused, her face looking down. “It started back in middle school... -Four years ago, Canterlot Middle School- Crowds of students walked down the halls of Canterlot Middle School. It's well-kept campus grounds shone with a brilliance that made it a pinnacle of learning. As one of the students, a cyan preteen with rainbow hair stood in front of the front doors of the building, a frown on her face as she clutched a battered military camouflage colored bag. My dad had insisted that I took the bag that I carried with me because it helped him in the war. However, it didn't help me on the first day of the Eighth grade as I was the laughing stock of the whole school. The preteen shrugged off the snickering that she heard from the other students around her, stepping forward into the looming building before her. A blush filled her cheeks as she continued her advance towards the one place she called sanctuary for school. She stopped, hearing the sounds of someone crying and turned, seeing a younger version of Lightning Dust being surrounded by several other students in turn. “Look, it's the wild child's bag girls. Didn't know that Barbarism was in this year.” One of them snapped. “Yeah, she's not exactly on the up and up with the latest styles isn't she?” “You know that without any money and a- Hey! Leave her alone!” Some of the upper echelons of the school's society targeted her, and I had to step in. Especially before she got expelled for fighting. Come to find out later that she was only acting out as a result of family problems. Couldn't blame her, after everything that she had been through, It would have been murder just to keep it all in you know? -Several Weeks Later- “Dash, why'd you do it?” Lightning Dust asked, sitting down in a particular part of the cafeteria with Rainbow Dash alone. “Because its what I do.” Rainbow Dash replied. “If there's a lot of guys that pick on the weak around, then there's gotta be just as many guys who stand up for those that can't fight for their own right? It's something that my dad taught me when I was picked on when I was younger.” “This sounds like the same thing that you said to me.” Fluttershy replied, watching as Rainbow Dash nodded. “Hey, it was my go to thing whenever one of my friends got bullied in middle school.” Rainbow Dash replied. “It worked didn't it?” She said, smiling as Fluttershy nodded. “So Lightning Dust was picked on, and you helped her with that problem. What happened next?” Sunset Shimmer asked, watching Rainbow Dash smile a little. The others watched with interest as Rainbow Dash stared up at the ceiling, her eyes twinkling with the thought of the memory. -Halfway through Middle School year- “Come on Dash, we can take'em!” Lightning Dust said confidently, her face filled wide with a smile as Rainbow Dash nodded. “Yeah, five against two? I like those odds!” Rainbow Dash replied, holding a soccer ball in her right hand held high. She planted the ball on the ground, smirking as she did so as the high schoolers looked down on them, cocky grins brimming on their faces. They however didn't seem to want to play soccer. As the first goon lunged for Lightning Dust, a knife in his hand, another soccer ball smashed into his head from behind, knocking the teen to the ground. The group of six looked up, seeing the smiling face of another high schooler who wore a khaki jacket, a black t-shirt, ripped blue jeans with sneakers and had a messy mop of white short hair. Well Half way through the year we met Gilda. She was cool, I mean beyond cool. We were out numbered and out matched, but she didn't care. It was as if fighting was her life-style. She made those dick-heads pay for trying to ambush us. “Dash!” “What Rarity? It's my story. Anywho, a few days passed before we became the most notorious ass-kickers CMS had ever seen.” Rainbow Dash continued, ignoring another huff from Rarity. “So, Dash, Dust, what're your dreams?” Gilda asked, calmly drinking from a bottle of soda she pinched from a nearby soda machine. Both students looked up from their own soda and blinked, having never been asked this kind of question before. “Come on, everyone's gotta have a dream right?” Gilda repeated. Rainbow Dash Smirked. “I wanna be the best at every sport ever!” It was both Gilda and Lightning Dust's turn to give Rainbow Dash a look. “What? I wanna get recognized for my brilliance on the field! Plus, there's no one better at anything sports-related at CMS than I am. I'm just that awesome.” Gilda chuckled, grinning as the three all shared a laugh. “Don't ever change Dash. You're too awesome for that.” She then turned towards Lightning Dust, who began to blush nervously. “So Lightning Dust, what's your dream?” Lightning Dust said nothing, shaking her head as she twiddled her thumbs. After a few moments she looked up, a smile on her face. “I already have my dream. I'm with you guys.” This caused the others to laugh. “Hey! It's not funny!” “Come on Lightning Dust, we're just messin' with you.” Gilda replied, smirking as she lightly punched Lightning Dust in the shoulder. “Heh, so we're your dream huh? That's interesting, but you know you need to have something better. Do you?” She watched Lightning Dust blink, before grinning. “You know, I'm getting a sports team together. Don't know what I'm gonna call it, but that's my dream.” She stood up and pointed towards the sun. “I'm gonna get a group of people together who share the same dream, and we're gonna take the world by storm!” “Awesome G!” Rainbow Dash cheered. “Sounds like it could be fun.” Lightning Dust said confidently, watching as Gilda turned, smirking a little. “So, are you two in? I can't be associated with people who don't give it their all. I need one-hundred and ten percent here.” Gilda asked, watching as both middle schoolers nodded. “Yeah, we're with you G!” Rainbow Dash said confidently. “Of course! Let's kick some ass!” Lightning Dust cheered, smiling as she threw her hand out in between all of them. Both Rainbow Dash and Gilda gave Lightning Dust a look which caused her to shrug. “Look, it's just something I do. Don't ask me why, but it feels like I actually like you guys.” “Not like as in like like right?” Rainbow Dash asked. “No not that way.” Lightning Dust replied. “I mean, you guys are the first friends that I've ever had...” “Well then, let's be the best friends that you ever had. Right Dash?” Gilda asked, as the cyan preteen smiled. “Right, you aren't alone anymore Dust. We're gonna be your friends forever.” Rainbow Dash answered, placing her hand on top of Lightning Dust's Gilda followed suit, rolling her eyes slightly before throwing up their hands together with a cheer. From the look on Lightning Dust's face, Rainbow Dash could swear that she was almost crying “We spent the whole better half of the rest of the school year, trying out other students to join our team.” Rainbow Dash added quietly. “But no one else could keep up with us. We called ourselves the Screaming Eagles because it was what we did whenever we won a game. You guys should have been to our game against South Central. Man those were good times...” The table fell silent as Dash finished speaking, a couple of small tears leaking from her face. After wiping her eyes with a free arm Dash got up and turned to go. “I'm not one for this mushy stuff, so I'll catch you guys later.” She said before running off. “Man, if Ah'dve known that Lightning Dust was like that Ah'dve- We all would have Applejack.” Rarity said quietly. Suspicion drawing across her face. “There is something that I feel that Rainbow Dash is leaving out of this Equation. Something that doesn't fit... I just can't put my finger on it.” “I wouldn't know...” Fluttershy replied, running a hand through her hair. “I never saw Lightning Dust or Rainbow Dash away from each other at all throughout middle school.” They all fell silent, save for Pinkie who was making a noise that sounded like a cross between a grunt and a moan. The pink haired teen scratched her head, blinking slightly before an idea popped into her head which caused her to leap into the air. “I'VE GOT IT!” She shouted, causing everyone in the cafeteria to jump and stare in her direction. “Pinkie, what now?” Rarity asked. The pink teen said nothing, grabbing Fluttershy and dragging her out of the cafeteria much to the shock of everyone. “ I have this really great idea and I need to borrow Fluttershy for a second so I'll see you guys later okay?” She said almost spitting out a literal typhoon of words before disappearing out of sight. Fluttershy said nothing, shock filling her face as she was still trying to process what Pinkie Pie was going to do with her. The three remaining teens shared a glance before looking back after them both. “Does Pinkie Pie... Normally do that?” Sunset Shimmer asked. “Sugarcube, it's just Pinkie Pie bein' Pinkie Pie. She always does that.” Applejack replied, getting up from the table. “Now Ah think we'd better mozy on back to class, seein's how lunch is almost over. So Ah'll see you guys later.” She said before she too left the cafeteria. As Rarity said her goodbyes as well, Sunset Shimmer rubbed her temples in frustration. “But how does that all connect to the Defiled attacking Lightning Dust?” She thought, shaking her head before getting up from the table. “Oh whatever, I'll figure it out later.” She uttered, walking out of the cafeteria alone. Lightning Dust sat alone, her back against the wall. It was her gym period, a time where she would normally shine, but due to the recent encounter with those monsters from the day before, she couldn't think straight. “Come on Lightning Dust! You're better than this!” She snapped mentally, after kicking the ball back to the opposing team a second time. “Is there something wrong Lightning Dust?” The teen looked up, seeing the coach for the Varsity squad of the Canterlot Wondercolts Soccer team and her present Gym teacher Coach Spitfire looking down on her with a gentle face. The coach seemed to radiate cool, her orange eyes beaming down on her through the aviator glasses that she had, but it seemed to be balanced out with the Motherly-like form that she had appeared to radiate with after all of her years of teaching. At least that's what it felt like to Lightning Dust. “N-No coach. E-Everything's fine.” Lightning Dust stammered, watching as Coach Spitfire took a seat on the bleachers next to her. “You aren't still mad about putting you on the junior varsity team are you?” Lightning Dust shook her head. “N-No, why would you say that?” The coach just sighed, as Lightning Dust turned back to the soccer game. “You know why I put you in the Junior Varsity team?” Coach Spitfire asked, meeting the silence of Lightning Dust head on. “It was because you were a great player. Wait what?” Lightning Dust asked, returning her attention back to the Coach. “I'm serious Dust, you're a great soccer player.” Coach Spitfire replied. “Good enough to be in Varsity.” “But then why- Because the members of Junior Varsity need someone to look up to.” Lightning Dust gasped, her heart now beating in her throat as the Coach smiled. She turned back to the game watching as one of the students, a cornflower yellow haired gray teen, leap into the air and blocked an offending shot from the soccer ball before landing heavily on her but. Two others, one with rose colored skin and rose colored hair and another with bright mint green and white hair with mint green skin both helped the girl up before charging down the field after the rest of the soccer team. “But-but I- I put you on the Junior Varsity team to inspire the rest of them. It was something that I felt was lacking.” Coach Spitfire replied, getting up from her spot on the bench as the mint-green teen put the ball through the opposing net. “I've seen how you were in practice, and I've gotta say we wouldn't be where we are now had you not gotten here. Lyra, Derpy, Berry, they're all good in they're own rights but with you, you're a natural leader. Someone to rally behind.” Coach Spitfire smiled and placed a gentle hand on Lightning Dust's shoulder. “Whoever you were before you joined up doesn't matter much anymore. You are that spark that gives the others the motivation to win. Just believe in yourself. That's what it takes.” Lightning Dust said nothing as Coach Spitfire removed her hand from her shoulder, blowing deeply into the whistle that she had. “It's just like... Just like she said before...” Lightning Dust thought quietly. The teen stood up, just as the rest of the class began to head in for the rest of school and smiled in Coach Spitfire's direction. “Thanks Coach. That meant a lot.” She said, following her classmates into the locker rooms. “Though there's still something that I have to do.” -Several Years ago- “Where were you?” Rainbow Dash stood alone, looking down at the ground as several cop-cars and an ambulance were nearby. Lightning Dust stood in front of her, face full cuts and bruises, but it was primarily full of tears. “I was... I'm- No Dash, don't even get started with me. I know what you're gonna try to say and you can save it.” Lightning Dust snapped. “I counted on you. Gilda counted on you, and you did nothing! Nothing!” “But-But I'm sorry! Really I am!” “Sure you are Dash. Just like how you're sorry about leaving us behind for that group of popular- They aren't that popular!” Dash snapped, cutting Lightning Dust off. “Sure Rarity is with the in crowd but- “Sure seems like she's popular to me.” The other teen snapped. “Now if you'll excuse me I have a friend to look after. After all, Screaming Eagles never leave others out in the rain.” Lightning Dust snapped, turning towards the Ambulance and climbing in the back before it drove off. Rainbow Dash didn't look up, but she knew she screwed up. She really did. -Back in present day- The cyan teen rolled her eyes, clutching yet another barely passed science quiz in her hands. “Man with grades like this, I'll never get the chance to go pro.” She turned a corner heading down a random hall in the direction of her next class, not paying any attention to anything except her paper. “Man... I'm gonna have to get a tutor at this rate...” She moaned, stopping at the dark green door and opening it after a second. After shoving the quiz into the ever-growing pile of papers that was the inside of her locker, Rainbow Dash watched as from out of the corner of her eye a tiny note drifted out from the top of the pile, landing on the ground face-up. “What's this?” She asked, shutting her locker with a loud, “BANG,” before picking up the page. “It's from Lightning Dust. Wonder what she could want?” She thought, skimming the page. Rainbow Dash, Need to meet up. Gotta practice, want a little more one on one. Would like to apologize, and would love to hang out. Meet at Whitetail Park after school, five o'clock. Bring your A game, because we're gonna need it. Lightning Dust The teen blinked, a smile creeping up on her face. “So... She wants to actually practice then? Cool, I haven't played a game against Lightning Dust in a while!” She thought, turning around before bumping into someone and getting thrown to the ground. “HEY!” Rainbow Dash snapped, looking up and seeing the smiling face of a dark red teen wearing an all blue muscle shirt with jeans shorts. “Oh, uh sorry about that. Didn't see where I was going.” The teen replied, extending a hand and missing Dash as she stood up on her own. “I can get up on my own thanks.” Dash snapped, picking up her bag and looking up at the nearby clock. “Shoot, if I miss class I'm gonna have you to blame!” She snapped, running off and leaving the teen by himself. He looked down at the crumpled page of paper in his fist before smiling a second time. “Oh, don't worry about class...” He whispered, uncrumpling the page and reading over it. “That's the least of your worries.” He said before chuckling quietly, a small flame igniting in his hands and disintegrating the page before walking off. “I would be more concerned about finding your friend before I do. But that's just me personally.” He thought, casually strolling on down the hall with a wicked smile on his lips. Whitetail Park was one of the nicer, friendlier parks that made the county so notable. Even as the sun continued to set against the horizon of tall skyscrapers, the lush canopy of trees seemed to filter a beautiful array of sunlight, making the whole place feel serene. There was hardly any litter, several of the groundskeepers worked in tandem with Canterlot High's beautification committee, and whatever trash there was never stayed there for long. Lightning Dust sat against a park bench nearest to one of the open fields in the park, a place in particular that she had rather enjoyed. Her eyes drifted down towards the soccer ball at her feet, and she gave a conscious shudder. “What if she doesn't show?” She thought, nervously checking her watch which stated the time to be four minutes to five. “I told her five, but that doesn't mean- “HEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEYYYYY!” Lightning Dust jumped at the shout and wheeled around, seeing Rainbow Dash's smiling face. “Rainbow Dash, over here!” She said excitedly as the rainbow haired teen ran to where she stood. “You're here early. What happened?” “Well, I wanted to apologize for the other day.” Rainbow Dash explained, wrapping Lightning Dust in a hug. “I mean, I didn't know how you would react to my other friends and there were those monsters and- Look Dash it's okay.” Lightning Dust replied, passing the soccer ball to the teen with her feet. Dash smiled, before beginning to dribble the ball as both she and Lightning Dust made it out into the middle of the field. “I just wanna know if you brought your A game like I asked.” “Oh I brought my A game all right...” Dash whispered, causing Lightning Dust to give her a curious look. “Oh... Uh yeah! Of course I brought my A game!” Rainbow Dash said, grinning as she passed the ball to Lightning Dust. “So let's play!” As Lightning Dust received the ball, The teen stared suspiciously at Rainbow Dash before making her way towards the goal. Dash smiled, beginning to chase after her as the game began. Dust, who had gained a significant lead in distance stopped and readied her shot only to be tripped out by Dash before falling to the ground. “What the heck was that for?” Lightning Dust snapped, watching as Rainbow Dash smiled, kicking the ball away towards the opposite goal. “All right, time to amp up my game.” Lightning Dust thought, getting up and chasing after the cyan teen. Dash said nothing, stopping only for a moment before launching the ball like a ballistic missile at the opposing goal. Lightning Dust could only watch as the ball hit the metal edge of the goal post and ricocheted over their heads. Lightning Dust turned, charging back towards the ball as it rolled to a stop at the edge of the field. “Rainbow Dash never misses a shot...” Lightning Dust thought quietly, picking up the ball and turning around only dropping it seconds later to find Rainbow Dash standing directly in her personal space with a smile on her face that would mistake her for a serial killer. “WHOA, Dash that's not funny!” She shouted, leaping backwards in surprise. “What's really funny is how easy this is.” Rainbow Dash, replied, taking a step forward. “Uh... Heh heh heh... Dash, what are you doing?” Lightning Dust asked, backing up enough for her to have room to run. “What? I was just saying how easy it is to throw you off of your game. That's all.” Rainbow Dash said cheerfully, watching as Lightning Dust narrowed her eyes. “Come on, let's get back to the game.” She said, stepping forward and taking the ball from Lightning Dust's hands. As Rainbow Dash kicked the ball back towards what Lightning Dust assumed was her goal, the teen watched Rainbow Dash's form as she charged towards the ball like a bullet train. “Something's off about Rainbow Dash... Something's totally off...” She thought, before running after her. “Oh man I'm totally late!” Rainbow Dash shouted, charging down the hill that led towards Whitetail Park. After bumping into that teen in front of her locker, and subsequently getting to class after the bell had rung, the teacher had to make her stay after school had ended and forced her to spend an hour helping her reorganize one of the shelves in the library. Sure there was this crazy lavender colored girl who spent most of the time talking about the, “Dewey Decimal System,” or whatever it was in her ear but she didn't get anything done. By the time Rainbow Dash was finished it was almost five, and she had to run the whole way there. “I-huff-hope that-huff-Lightning Dust is okay-pant-and I didn't miss her!” Rainbow Dash breathed, continuing her run towards the park. As soon as she got there she stopped, watching as Lightning Dust was playing with her. Or at least it was her. There was something off about the way the other Rainbow Dash was playing against Lightning Dust, it seemed too aggressive. As for every time Lightning Dust made to kick the ball, “Rainbow Dash,” slide tackled her to the ground before kicking the ball in the opposite direction. After the fourth time that Lightning Dust hit the dirt of the soccer field, Rainbow Dash stepped forward. “HEY!” She snapped, her cheeks burning red as both Lightning Dust and her double turned towards her. “Rainbow... Dash?” Lightning Dust asked, appearing horribly confused. “Yeah, it's me.” Rainbow Dash replied, watching as Lightning Dust turned towards the other Rainbow Dash on the field. “Well then who's this?” Lightning Dust asked, as a deep growl emanated from the other Rainbow Dash. Both teens turned, watching in horror, as the fake Rainbow Dash disappeared with a wave of black flames as the demonic knight Covetous took her place with a mighty laugh. “So, you finally decide to show up huh?” Covetous asked, his eyes narrowing. “It took you long enough.” “D-D-Dash?” Lightning Dust stammered, staggering backwards as Covetous tried to grab her with his free hand, the head of the axe buried into the ground. The teen let out a shrill cry as he finally grabbed her, smiling as Lightning Dust struggled in his grip. “Trust me honey, You're not going anywhere.” Covetous snapped, smirking as Rainbow Dash charged forward. “Let her go!” Rainbow Dash snapped, leaping into the air at Covetous only to get knocked back by another wave of black energy. Dash staggered to her feet and started to run a second time only to stop as Covetous' bladed hand was pointed directly at Lightning Dust's throat. “I wouldn't try charging at me a second time Miss Dash.” Covetous challenged, his voice ringing out as it filled with superiority. “I mean, not unless you wish to see your dear friend from middle school hurt. Though that's what's going to happen anyways.” He said, drawing the blade closer to her throat. “You Let her go!” Rainbow Dash snapped. “Now you see, that's where you're overstepping your boundaries.” Covetous snapped, appearing to smirk. “Think of this as... a mere parting of the ways. Lightning Dust has no need for you, and you are too pathetic of a person to actually care about what she thinks. I mean, why did you even bother to show up when-” ZAP! The sound of Covetous' rant was cut off as a lavender beam of energy streaked towards the demonic knight, striking the bladed arm and splitting it down the middle. Covetous, recoiled, staggering backwards with Lightning Dust in his clutches as they all turned. Standing at the goalpost that was behind Rainbow Dash was Harmony, his weapon pointed directly at the knight's head. “Dammit, I don't have time to be dealing with you now!” Covetous snapped, his bladed arm forming into an actual one and grabbing Lightning Dust as his other arm grabbed the axe. “Yeah, and I don't exactly have any free time to be messing with another one of you scum-beasts so let's get this party started.” Harmony taunted, rushing towards Covetous as the Demon warrior passed Lightning Dust to a pair of Larvals that appeared from the ground before returning the charge. Both warriors met in the center of the Soccer field, Harmony's blade crossing with Covetous' axe in an initial clash. The masked warrior seemed to get pushed back, losing some footing in the grass, before regaining traction with his boots and pushing right back against his demonic adversary. Covetous, seeing an opening, swung the butt of his axe towards Harmony in an attempt to gain leverage but was thrown forward as Harmony pushed the demon forward with the blade, causing him to taste the dirt. The axe-wielding demon quickly got to his feet, avoiding a kick from Harmony as the masked hero went on the offensive and threw a series of kicks at him, before leaping backwards as his axe was swung his way. “Nasty little beast aren't you?” Harmony asked, converting his blade back to a pistol before firing several shots at Covetous. The demon reacted quickly, sending several rays to the side before taking a third in the shoulder. He however didn't react, catching Harmony with an upward swing of his axe and staggering him. Sparks flew from the jumpsuit as Harmony reconverted his blade and moved it to parry another axe attack as it came his way. “I'm as nasty as they come meat. Now get outta my way.” Covetous snapped, throwing Harmony backwards with the axe before turning his back on the hero. He staggered forward before turning around as several small rays of energy impacted his body, causing sparks to erupt like fireworks on the Fourth of July, before raising his axe a second time. Harmony was ready however as the Masked hero dove underneath the swing of the axe before following the attack up with an uppercut that staggered the demon. Harmony avoided another axe swing, retaliating with a kick that staggered the demon even further. “I think it's time we finished this.” He said coolly as a lavender color replaced the color of the gem on his helmet. Before the gem could get completely full, the sound of a demonic wail filled the park, breaking harmony's concentration and causing him and Covetous to look up. The pair of Larvals were gone and in their stead was an abomination of a creature looking like a horrible fusion of the front half of a horse and a cage with flesh colored skin. The half of the creature was missing it's head where as the back half of the creature's legs was replaced with wagon wheels. “Excellent, my ride's here.” Covetous said calmly, throwing another wave of energy at Harmony before charging toward the ride. Rainbow Dash, who had been watching the fight nearby raced towards the cage. “Lightning Dust!” She shouted, as the teen violently shook the bars in a vain attempt to free herself. As Rainbow Dash neared the creature several Larvals popped up from the ground and grabbed her legs, causing her to trip and fall flat on her face. The cyan teen struggled to get up, but found that hard as the Larvals refused to let go as even more grabbed her other limbs. “Dash help!” Lightning Dust shouted from the cage before Covetous got to the creature. “Sorry Miss Dust, but your friend won't be able to help you. Now, let's go for a ride.” Covetous said with a hint of joy in his voice before climbing up on the creature. An otherworldly roar bellowed from within the belly of the beast before it started to move, carrying Lightning Dust and Covetous away from the park. “DASH!” Lightning Dust shouted, shaking the bars a second time just before disappearing with her captors behind the trees of the park. She could see Rainbow Dash struggle with the Larvals, trying to move as they held her down, and dropped to her knees. “It's my fault...” Lightning Dust thought, a few tears escaping her eyes. “Yeah, you go ahead and think that.” Covetous said from the front of the creature. “But by the end of tonight, you won't be thinking that at all! You'll be one of us then, and then you'll enjoy ruining other peoples lives hahahaha!” As the creature carrying Lightning Dust sped away, several bolts of lavender energy pierced through the heads of the Larvals that held Rainbow Dash down. The teen looked up, blinking as Harmony lowered his weapon before turning towards the set of wheels that were carved into the ground. “Y-Y-You're gonna save her right?” Rainbow Dash asked nervously. “You gotta- I'm going to save her.” Harmony said, cutting Rainbow Dash off. “Don't worry, everything's going to be fine. You should trust in your friend. She's strong.” Harmony then began to concentrate, the six-pointed star on the top of his head began to change colors as the rose color it had was being steadily replaced by a darker purple. Rainbow Dash stood in wonder as the same darker purple enveloped Harmony's hands, before a pair of beams shot from his palms and hit the ground. Slowly, a dome began to form and expand, getting bigger until it reached about to their hips in height. After breaking her hands away from the beams of energy, the dome disappeared which caused Rainbow Dash to stare in awe. Before them both was a motorcycle. It was sleek looking, looking more like an American made chopper than a Japanese Sport bike, but it had sort of a sport bike feel. The bike itself was dark purple, complete with rose colored accents and chrome plating where the motor and the mufflers were, as the back end of the bike extended out into a point that looked like a pair of dragon's wings. Several stars, similar to the ones on Harmony's jumpsuit could be seen, as the handle bars appeared to light up with the standard information one would see on a normal motorcycle. “That is so awesome...” Rainbow Dash whispered as Harmony mounted the bike and started it up, revving the engines to life. “Everyone's a fan of the bike. Now, it's time for the climax.” Harmony said, calmly waving Rainbow Dash off before guiding the bike in between the trail left behind by the carriage. After having moved out of the woods and onto a road that led into Canterlot City proper, Covetous chuckled a little and turned to glance over at his shoulder as Lightning Dust remained silent, her body tucked into herself as she tried to look small. “So, now that we're both alone how about I be the first to- You know I'm not going to submit. I'm going to get out of here.” Lightning Dust snapped, giving Covetous a death glare. “And whether I get out of here thanks to Rainbow Dash or thanks to that masked hero, you're going to get your ass kicked.” “Oho? So you think that someone's going to come and save you? At this time of night?” Covetous asked, waving his hand around as the slopes of the darkened hill which lead up to Canterlot High School appeared to be abandoned. “There's no one here to save you. So you should just give up now and prepare your first- VROOOOOOOM! The sounds of an engine going at full throttle pierced through the night, cutting the demon knight off. He stopped, and watched with horror as a dark purple motorcycle bearing the same color scheme as its Rider came barreling down from the side of the hill, landing beside the carriage with a loud, “WHUMP,” and knocking it to the side. “The hell? Since when did Riders have a bike?” Covetous asked. “Since always.” Harmony answered, shouting over the dull rumble of his engine. “Now release the girl and no one gets hurt. Well, except for you, but you don't count.” “Never!” Covetous shouted, smacking the side of the front end of the creature with the flat end of his axe forcing it to move faster. After hitting it a few good times, the creature was moving at a fair amount of speed, seemingly pulling away from the masked hero and his motorcycle. “Really? Is that the best you can do?” Harmony asked, revving up the engine on his motorcycle and giving chase. As both the carriage carrying Covetous and Lightning Dust and the motorcycle that carried Harmony began to scream down the road, Covetous turned firing several rays of energy from his eyes at Harmony. The bike swerved to the right, taking the inside corner of the highway before closing the distance between them. Harmony drew his weapon, pointing it at Covetous and firing several rounds at the demon only to miss as he pulled further ahead. “Help me!” Lightning Dust shouted, grabbing onto the cage and pulling at it, trying her best to do something. “Please! Help me!” “I'll be there in just a second!” Harmony shouted over the roar of his motorcycle's engine, pointing his weapon directly at the back of Covetous causing Lightning Dust to duck. Several beams of energy cut through the bars of the cage, causing the beast to cry out in pain and Covetous to hit it again to make it move faster. This only caused a delay in the beam that struck him in the head, knocking the demon face first into the back of the creature. Covetous turned around glaring as Harmony pulled back in beside the back left wheel as they rounded the next corner before cutting several more bars in the cage with the blade of his weapon. “Oh no you don't!” Covetous snapped, throwing a wave of energy back at Harmony with his axe, forcing the masked hero to back off from the pair of demons. Covetous ducked, as Harmony fired a retaliatory blast from his weapon a second time, looking back up as several more rays smacked him in the face, blinding him. Covetous howled in pain, covering up his eyes with his free arm as the carriage slowed down enough for Harmony to pull along its left side again. “Jump!” Harmony shouted after cutting a hole wide enough for Lightning Dust to climb through. “What are you crazy?!” Lightning Dust shouted as both the carriage and Harmony's motorcycle charged down a normally high-traffic street at top speeds, nearly breaking every law that they possibly could at the same time. “We're going a hundred miles an hour! It's suicide!” “Not exactly, we're going only eighty-five. Now jump!” Harmony corrected, extending a hand and getting closer. Nervous, Lightning Dust took a gulp of air before closing her eyes. “Okay Dust, this is the stupidest thing that you've ever done. But it's going to be okay. This guy's here to help.” A bump rocked the carriage which knocked the teen to her knees before letting her get to her feet a second time. “You can't screw this up. So... Here we-” Lightning Dust thought, jumping the small gap and into the waiting arms of the masked hero. “OHMYGODDON'TYOUFREAKIN'DARE!” She shouted as Harmony nearly lost his grip on her, before sliding onto the front of the seat of the motorcycle. “Wasn't planning on it.” Harmony said coolly, before beginning to stand on top of the seat. Several tendrils of lavender energy erupted from the six-pointed star on top of the helmet as two gripped the handlebars of the motorcycle like a pair of hands, appearing to stabilize it at the same time as the bike became charged with energy. Covetous, who had managed to clear his eyes stared in shock. His target was riding his opposition's motorcycle and his opposition was glowing in such a way that indicated that it would not be healthy for him in the least to come into contact with him. He smacked the side of his method of transport with his axe, urging it to go faster as several lavender tendrils appeared around on the ground near where he was riding, forming a circle with the same six-pointed star underneath the carriage and motorcycle rode onto the main street into downtown Canterlot. “You might want to hang on.” Harmony said in Lightning Dust's direction. The teen, understandably scared out of her wits, death-gripped the handlebars as the masked hero proceeded to leap into the air, doing a flip before swinging a lavender energy covered leg into the face of Covetous. The demonic knight tried to lift up his axe to protect himself, but the momentum of Harmony proved to be too much as the leg buried itself into his skull and sending a mountain of lavender energy through him and the carriage he was riding on. “But I'm a member of the Defiled! I'm not supposed toAAARRRGH-” Was all Covetous could say before an explosion of light and fire claimed him and the carriage that he rode on. The resulting shock wave started several alarms, causing them to erupt in a fury of Lights and sounds, but as Harmony leapt back onto the bike, nothing mattered. The masked hero guided the bike to a stop, causing Lightning Dust to release her deathgrip on the bike and dismount with all of the grace of a cat on ice. “That... Was... The most...” Lightning Dust began, rounding on Harmony as her temper began to flare. “I don't think that you should be angry with the person who just tried to save your life.” Harmony said quietly, climbing back on the motorcycle. “I'd give you a ride if you were so inclined, but I'm guessing that you'd prefer to walk.” He asked, as Lightning Dust shook her head. “No I'll take that ride.” She said, climbing on the bike with Harmony. The masked hero said nothing, doing a u-turn in the middle of the street before riding off, Lightning Dust holding on to him as tight as she could. Rainbow Dash stood alone, her feet scratching the ground of the park as night began to claim the skies above. “I hope Lightning Dust is okay.” Rainbow Dash thought quietly, looking up above and seeing the stars in the sky shining down on her. The loud sound of a lone engine could be heard in the distance, causing her to look up and see Harmony with Lightning Dust wrapped around him like he was her lifeline sent from heaven. “DAAAAAAAAAAAASH!” Lightning Dust shouted as the motorcycle skidded to a stop. Immediately she leapt off the bike, her legs grateful to being on solid ground, and ran towards the other teen with a skip in her step. Rainbow Dash smiled, getting up from the bench and running towards Lightning Dust before tackling her with a great hug. “Oh my gosh, Lightning Dust you're okay!” She squealed, causing Lightning Dust to smile. “Of course Dash, I'm okay because of-” She turned, blinking as Harmony was nowhere to be found, the sound of the motorcycle engine roaring off in the distance as both Rainbow Dash and Lightning Dust shared a glance. Both remained silent for several moments before looking down on the soccer ball that was sitting on the park bench, appearing to patiently wait to be used. “So... Up for a game?” Rainbow Dash asked sheepishly. “You mean to tell me that this Harmony leapt off of a moving vehicle and kicked your attacker in the face?” Rarity asked the next day. Rainbow Dash, who was insistent about patching things over with Lightning Dust and her friends had the turquoise teen sit with them over lunch, recounting the events that happened with the motorcycle chase that had ensued after she was captured by Covetous. “Oh my, were you scared?” Fluttershy asked, blushing as Lightning Dust nodded. “Yeah, I'll admit it. I was scared, I mean you try jumping from a moving carriage onto a motorcycle moving eighty-five miles an hour and you see how, “awesome,” it is.” Lightning Dust replied. “But there is one thing that I have to say.” She turned towards the other girls at the table. “Dash, You know as well as I do that the Screaming Eagles are the best thing that's ever happened to me.” “Yeah, I do. So, what's the point of being angry?” Rainbow Dash asked, causing everyone at the table to either shake their heads or facepalm. “Well, I was angry because I thought you had forgotten about what had happened to Gilda.” Lightning Dust replied. “We were a team. A family, and I thought that you had broken that.” She smiled, looking down at something in her hands from beneath the table before grinning. “But you know, I can forgive you.” “You can?” Rainbow Dash asked. “What happened to Gilda anyways?” Sunset Shimmer asked, watching as a tear ran down Lightning Dust's eye. “Oh, you don't have to- It's better that you know.” Lightning Dust replied, wiping her face gently with a napkin. “You see, that night at Whitetail Park...” She pause, her voice getting caught up in her throat as her tears began to well up. “She... Well- She was beaten so bad by a group of thugs from South Central that she couldn't play Soccer ever again.” Rainbow Dash said bluntly, causing everyone at the table to gasp. “It's the truth. And I asked Lightning Dust to beat me to make up for not showing up when I should have.” Rainbow Dash said, her face falling in shame. “But it wasn't your fault to begin with!” Lightning Dust cried, turning towards Rainbow Dash, who shrugged. “I was the one who- No, I didn't show up.” Rainbow Dash said quietly, smiling a little. “But there's someone here for you. She's just visiting mind you but...” She smiled, turning towards the cafeteria door and gesturing her hand for someone to come over to their table. “I think that she'll be the confidence that you'll need.” The doors flung open wide, which caused most of the student body to gasp. Sitting in an all black wheelchair, was a teenager that looked like she was more of an adult than most of the faculty and staff in the cafeteria. The teen had several scars across her face as her tanned skin was paler than what one could consider normal, and wore a battered aviator jacket with a black muscle shirt and pants. Her tuft of white hair covered most of her face, but a pair of golden eyes were visible, and they appeared to beam with a sort of pride that no one had ever seen. Calmly the stranger wheeled herself towards their table, stopping at the end closest to where Lightning Dust and Rainbow Dash were sitting at. “So, I heard from a little birdie that you were having problems before the big game. Is that true Dust?” She asked as Lightning Dust released the breath that she had been holding. “G-G-Gilda?” Lightning Dust asked. “Yeah Dust it's me.” Gilda answered, grunting as Lightning Dust leapt at her with a hug. “Heh, good to see you too.” She said, smiling a little before Dragging Rainbow Dash into the hug. “Its good to see the both of you.”
