From The Futureby Unknown-_-ChaptersThe EndThe Past: I.The Past: II.The Past: IIIThe Past: IVAll Ends Well...Or Does It?The EndI ran dramatically to my mother's dorm. A group of soldiers escorted me as I climbed the flight of stairs. "We will cover you as much as you can," captain Silver said. "Thank you, we must protect the Elements". I forced the door open, making a loud bang. There goes my mother, studying as usual. "Mother, we must leave at once" I announced. She raised her eyebrow. "I know, I know," she said rolling her eyes, "I can feel the sense of danger already, sheesh". "This is no laughing matter, you must drop your scrolls and books and leave!" I urged. She still is packing her belongings. I waited impatiently as she put her scrolls in her bag by using her magic. The castle shook as we waited for her to finish. "There, every last one!" she said giggling. "You still act like a child mother" I sighed. "You are taking this too seriously! Cheer up Blade!". She skipped away as I carried her eighty pound books. "Sire, do you need of assistance?" Silver asked. "Nah, I got it" I said. We went down the stairs quickly and out into the castle gates. A carriage is waiting for us. "Silver, I trust your men to do this job efficiently" I choked. "Mrs. Twilight Sparkle is indeed in our utmost care mi-lord, they will be off on their merry way". I went to my mother as she looked at the carriage. "Mother, this might be--". "Aw, don't think that way Blade! Remember what I taught you!" Twilight said. We hugged each other. I can tell she is on the verge of tears. "I will return, but now, you must leave Canterlot and go to Ponyville". She went into the carriage and the carriage swiftly sped away. I stared at the carriage until it disappeared into the nearest corner. "Report mi-lord". "Yes, what is it?". "Thou dragon! It is making its move!". I grit my teeth. "Send every regiment to the front gates at once!" I commanded, "Make sure when the bloody thirsty dragon destroys the gates, no Shadow enters". The soldier bowed and galloped. I unsheathed my spear and flew to the front gates. I heard ponies shouting out orders as they barricaded the Shadows. "Hold men! Spears front!". I saw ponies stabbing their spears into the Shadows, trying to hold the advance. I landed next to a familiar pony. "Uncle Shining Armor" I greeted, bowing. "Is she away?" he asked. "For now, the dragon will never know". "This siege is wearing us down lad, I don't know how long we can hold" he confessed. "Aye, but our soldiers are strong" I argued. We heard a dragon's roar. No, here he comes. "Abandon posts now!" Shining Armor shouted. Soldiers ran in terror as the ground rumbled. Ponies went into their ranks, holding their spears ready. The rumbling stopped, no sound was made. "Come out you.." I thought. Silence....All silence.... BOOOOOOOOM A huge explosion occurred and we all fell to the ground. Ash and smoke filled the air. I opened my eyes, slowly. The smoke is still thick as I squinted to find a pony, any. "Help...". I quickly turned around and galloped to the call. I stopped and looked around. I waited for the call again, but nothing. "Mhmmmmm...". I gasped. No....No.... "Hahaha....". The smoke suddenly cleared. Something red glowed behind me. "The end child, is coming..." it said. I slowly turned around, in terror. Xithcotal, the king of beasts, stared upon me. He is five times bigger than the Canterlot castle and his red eyes glared at me. "Give up your mother and you shall live" he commanded. "My grave!" I dared. He chuckled. "I will heed you request". I heard loud growls from the front gates. The Shadows roared themselves into Canterlot, showing their fangs. The dark army crowed upon me. Thousands and thousands surrounded me. I took a random spear from the floor and waved it. "Your death will come swiftly" the dragon snickered. The Shadows charged at me. "Barreira" I chanted. A magical barrier formed around me, preventing the Shadows to touch me. "Döden från himlen!". I jumped in the air and slammed my spear to the floor. It created a light aura wave which blasted many Shadows. However, they're still coming. I stabbed my spear countlessly to the nearest Shadows, but it is hopeless. I spread my wings and flew to the air. I gasped and breathed heavily. "Foolish boy, minions, fly!". The Shadows begin to spread their wings as well, and zoomed towards me. Holy Equestria, they are after me! I charged to them, holding my spear in front. In a instant, I was in the heart of the swarm. I cut down endless waves of Shadows. More and more came as I kill a couple, a dozen, hundreds. "This is not doing anything..." I thought. I managed to get out of the horde. They clumped together and all charged at me. I concentrated and light emitted from my horn. I raised my spear and closed my eyes. "I can't believe I have to do this". A dark aura surrounded my spear. Thousands and thousands of Shadows came closer every second. I waited for the right moment. "Death awaits". I slashed. A gargantuan black aura slash is released. The Shadows don't seem to care about it. I watched it go to the first Shadow. I turned around and I didn't look back. KA-BOOOOOOM! The earth rumbled as the explosion blasted all of the Shadows, that I assumed. It had created a loud bang and a powerful shock wave. There is silence now. I turned around. I embraced a powerful magic spell. I gasped and it hit me. I felt pain and fell to the ground hard. "YOU....I SHALL END THIS AND EQUESTRIA WITH IT!". The dragon flew upwards and charged a beam. I crawled in agony, trying to reach for the spear. "Don't...Blade". My eyes widened. Shining Armor stopped me from getting the spear. Blood fell from his mouth and he coughed some out. A huge debris is on top of him, decapitating his lower body. "Uncle I--". "Promise me...that you will change all of this..." he coughed. I got up slowly and begin to move the huge stone. "Enough...You are wasting...energy...". "STOP IT!" I sobbed, "I am getting you out...". I can hear the dragon's laugh. "Hahaha! DIE!". I looked at uncle. He is trying to cast a spell, but I know that whatever he is doing will not help. I went on my knees. I closed my eyes...awaiting my fate... The Past: I.I opened my eyes, seeing light shine its way. I blinked a couple of times, wondering how the HECK did I get here. I moaned as I attempted to stand. I stood perfectly fine, no body parts shattered. "Weird," I thought. I touched myself. My skin felt warm and hard. I am still alive, but how? I looked around my environment. Everything looks so familiar... "HmmmHmmm". I quickly hid behind a tree and waited. A familiar orange coated pony came about, kicking these apple trees. I watched as the apples fell, landing into the baskets in such accuracy. She turned into my direction. I hid again. "Hello?". I heard the pony trotting to me. Sugarcakes, what should I do? Hey, that teleportation spell mother taught me. I still can't control it, but it is worth a try. "Whoever is behind my tree, I won't hurt ya, just come out". I concentrated and looked at another apple tree. I closed my eyes and I heard the air piercing through my ears, I opened my eyes and I am in the air. "Holy--". I screamed and fell to the ground, hitting the ground hard. I moaned and got up. "Are you alright?". "Yes," I replied, "I am just...HUH?". "Whats the matter?". "Ms. Applejack?". Applejack raised her eyebrow in confusion. "Did we ever meet?" Applejack jeered. "What? YES we have met when....". I thought for a moment. "Am I in...Ponyville?" I asked. She nodded. "WHAT! I AM SUPPOSED TO BE FIGHTING XITHCOTAL! DIDN'T THE WORLD END?" I exclaimed. "Who is Xit...Whatever he/she is?" Applejack asked. "AAAAAHHHHHH! WHAT IS THIS MADNESS!". I waved my hooves rapidly and I was having a nervous breakdown. I started talking out loud. "This gotta be witchcraft...Yes, yes! No no...Maybe the Heavens gave me a chance to...Save the world? Maybe....MAYBE? HOW IS IT A MAYBE? WHAT AM I DOING HERE! I'M SUPPOSED TO BE DEAD. Or am I? Maybe I should jump a cliff or...". Applejack giggled. "Whats so funny? Huh? WHAT IS SO FUNNY?". She started to laugh. "Oh, you just remind me of my friend Twilight. I heard from Spike that she panicked like that and start acting crazy when she couldn't find a friendship lesson for Celestia" she giggled. I relaxed myself and smiled. "Ponies do say I am related to my mother" I thought out loud. Applejack widened her eyes and her mouth dropped. "Twilight has a child? Wha...Wha...Are you her...Who in the name Celestia are you?". I slapped myself in the face, saying that I am related to Twilight. I am so stupid. "Too late to lie now. Will you believe me that I came from the future?". Applejack is still shocked, not showing any expression. She blushed a little bit. "Uh...I hit you hard with that didn't I?". She shook her head and smiled. "Gawsh...Sorry bout' that. It is just that...Wow, I never knew Twilight had a child in the future. A very fine...Uh.." she said. "Oh?". "No no! Don't take it wrong!" she objected, "Twilight is the greatest friend I ever had!". "Take what wrong?" a voice said. Ms. Applejack shrieked and fell to the ground. A familiar alicorn is standing in front of Ms. Applejack in confusion. "My Ms. Applejack, are you alright?" I asked. "Yeah, I am, thanks" she replied. "Oh Applejack, we are having a picnic today and...Who's he?". "Oh...Twilight...This is--". I shook my head rapidly. "This is...my cousin! Yea...Cousin in Appleloosa!" Ms. Applejack cheerfully said. I sighed in relief. "You have a alicorn cousin?" Twilight beamed. Applejack nodded in approval. "Oh okay...What's your name?" Twilight asked. "Blade... Name's Blade" I said in a western accent "Nice to meet ya". I shook Mother's hoof. "Hey Blade, want to join our picnic? I was going to tell Applejack make some apple pies" Twilight suggested. "Um...Sure..." I said Twilight trotted away. I glanced at her. So, this is what she looked like when she is at her young age. No wonder why Father loved her: appearance, sounds nice. I closed my eyes and thought what my father told me how they met. [Flashback] "Hey sonny, come here" Father called. "Yes father?". "Have I ever told you how me and your mother met?". "No". My father chuckled and told me to follow him. "I heard that she and her gang of friends saved Equestria a couple of times and that she was in the Crystal Kingdom to study her magic, so I went to look. I took a train to the Crystal Kingdom with five hundred people on board. I never went to the Crystal Kingdom before, but the sights amaze me. They were holding a magic contest and SHE is hosting one. So I applied and won every round. And there...We gazed upon each other and that is where the magic started! What do you think?". "Hmph, in these times, love is not important in war" I grunted. My father shook his head. "Love will find you, even in the hardest times son, now I have to go to a meeting. Love you sonny". "See you father". I watched him walk with the guards until he went into the meeting room. I continued onward down the hall. [End] I sighed. That day was the last time I saw my father. It depresses me thinking about that day. "Hey 'Cousin', gonna help with the apples?" Applejack proposed. "Huh? Yeah sure". I levitated all good apples and placed them in the baskets. I levitated one towards me and ate one. The sweet taste of the apple poured all over my taste buds. Mmm, delicious. "I remember that Twilight helped me out on that day" Applejack pondered, "Was being selfish that day, thinking I can cover acres and acres of apple trees". "Oh really? And when was that?". "A year ago" she replied, "Anyways, I gotta make some delicious apple pie! Be back in a jiffy!". Ms. Applejack trotted off, leaving me here. I sniffed the air and sighed in relief. It is good to be home. Yes, Ponyville is my home. I was born here, raised for a year, then went to Canterlot. I still remember the freshness of the spring air when I was little. Hard to remember, but I can get a glimpse of it. *Giggle*. I alerted my senses and looked around. I heard a giggle, a devious one. *Giggle*. I turned to its direction and started to walk to it... The Past: II.I walked to the sound of the devious giggling noise. I heard many Shadows communicate like that during the war, so they might be here. How were they able to get to the past? That is impossible. No...It is impossible for me to travel back as well. So there might be a possibility that... *Giggle*. The sound is getting louder with every step I take. I saw a cloud and a female pony on it. She appears to be sleeping on it, looks like she is a normal pony. Wait...I saw some Shadows disguise as normal ponies, so I can't take the risk. I slowly walked to the "Shadow", getting ready to strike. *Giggle*. It communicated again! It is trying to get help! I need to attack it now! *Mutter Mutter*. Now it is my chance! "COME HERE!" I hollered. I jumped and attempted to restrain the Shadow. It struggled a lot, but I achieved in ending its struggle. "Gotcha!" I chuckled, "Now, how did Xithcotal get you here?". "What's your problem man? Let me go!" It pled. "State your business and I will release you". "Well, I was asleep..." it replied. "Okay...And what--". It flipped me over, leaving me on the ground. She snorted in triumph and stood on top of me. "My turn...Now who exactly are you to tell me--". "Rainbow Dash! What are you doing?". Ms. Applejack came to the rescue! Didn't she say...Rainbow Dash? Oh jeez, I messed with the greatest flyer in Equestria. "This dude sneak attacked me, but I threw him across and trompled him. Easy peasy lemon squeezy" she boasted. "Um...I let my guard down and plus, you're a girl" I scoffed. "Quiet you!". She smacked me in the face. I felt the heat on the right side of my face. "Hey Rainbow Dash! You can't treat my guest like that!" Applejack hollered. "He hit me first! It is called payback!" Rainbow Dash protested. Rainbow Dash got off from me and argued with Applejack. I got up and brushed myself off. I watched them argue and argue and argue. They were in it really deep, that most of the stuff they mentioned probably asked for a challenge or a dare. I laughed out loud and I couldn't stop. It just reminds me of something funny. "What's so funny?" Ms. Dash growled. I stopped laughing and catched my breath. "Oh...It is just something..." I snickered. "Tell us, we want to know" Applejack insisted. "Okay, but this will not be funny for you guys" I chuckled. "It is at the evening party of my parents. The scenario was perfect for a wedding...Well, until you guys were arguing. There is this fine gentle pony named...Named...". I stopped talking and tried to think of that pony's name. "JUST CUT TO THE CHASE" Ms. Dash retorted. "Fine...You two were arguing about who should dance with him. I can tell you two when in love with him, so you guys made a mini-race track outside. Two challenged each other in a race. I asked if I can join and agreed. We had both of our wings tied. Us three raced. You Dash, were ahead, so I bit your tail, swung you around and rammed you into Ms. Applejack. You both tumbled and...AND...". I laughed hard again. "What?" Applejack said in confusion. "You guys made the most funniest faces as you realized I won!" I finished. "So is that a challenge huh?" Ms. Dash proposed. I stopped laughing. "No no...It isn't--". "Is that a story you made up to make me believe that you are faster than me? Huh...Are you the one who finished second place in the Running of the Leaves? Ha!". "No...It is just that I--". "Cheated? Well, lets see who is faster. The one who can race all around Ponyville three times!!" Dash hissed, "The race ends at Sugar Cube Corner". "Sorry, I don't want to join" I ranted. "Too scared? Aw...Poor 'Mr. Tough Guy' too scared to beat me? Ha!" she teased. I flared and grunted. "Fine, just this once" I barked. Applejack made a starting line and we prepared ourselves. "Prepare to lose" Dash chortled. I shook my head and sighed. "On your mark...Get set...". I closed my eyes again and another flashback appeared. [Flashback] "Keep on flapping those wings!". I swirled around the lap a few more times then I stopped to catch my breath. "Good, your new record is a minute and thirty seconds" Ms. Dash reported. "Wow...I passed my record" I gasped, "What is your record?". "Thirty seconds" she crowed. "I need to train more in order to surpass you Ms. Dash, no wonder ponies consider me the second best". "Bah, you have a long way to go kiddo, come now and let us eat some Pinkie's cake for once. I'm starving". [End] "GOOOOOOO!". I zoomed away to Sugar Cube Corner. I accelerated faster than Ms. Dash can handle. She glared at me and soon afterwards caught up to me. "Hey, stop staring and look what's in front of you for once" she suggested. "Huh?". I rammed into a tree and I became dizzy. I saw little Ms. Dashies flying in my vision. I quickly shook my head and went on. I lost sight of Ms. Dash, but I saw a pink pony skipping away. "Excuse me miss? Do you know where is Sugar Cube Corner?" I asked. "Oh! Over there!" she replied in a delightful manner. "Thank you kind madam". "Racing Rainbow Dash huh? Ooh! She is the fastest flyer in Equestria!" she squealed. "Do you know where she is?" I questioned. "Oh, over your head sticking her tongue at you". I looked up and saw Ms. Dash stick her tongue at me. "Loser!" she teased. "Why you little runt!" I stormed. We continued racing against each other. We went around two laps and up to the final. We were at The Farm, making a circular loop around it then raced to SugarCube corner. "This ends now!" she boomed. I saw her speeding up in a fast rate. Wait...She is attempting the Sonic RainBoom!. "Oh no you don't!" I cried. I closed my eyes once again and a memory appeared. [Flashback] "Hey chump, have I ever taught you the Sonic Rainboom?". "No, why?". "Oh, I can teach you it now" Dash said. "It is impossible for me to do. Only you, the greatest flyer in Equestria, can achieve it" I disagreed. "Hey, the greatest military commander, right here next to me? Come on now! Where is that sense of honor that you guys babble about". "Thank you but I'll pass" I denied. "Hey! I am your master and your are my student! YOU have to do what I say". "I know that I am your student, but I think I have done enough". I soon began to walk away as I was done speaking. "Okay...This trick may save your life you know...". I turned around. "How exactly?" I questioned. Dash smiled. "Curiosity. I see all over in your face". "Of course! If it is involved in saving lives, or mine, I must learn it at once!" I announced. "Now we are talking. Okay...This is how I did the Sonic Rainboom...". [End] She seems to ignore me and concentrated on her momentum. "Okay Blade...Show Ms. Dash what you are made of!" I thought. I gained momentum as well, catching up to her. I saw her turn smaller and smaller, but I call tell that we are both at the right speed. I looked in front of me. I did the final boost and I achieved the Sonic Rainboom. I never felt so alive! The wind pierced through my ear drums and my cheeks felt icy. I stopped myself as I saw Sugarcube Corner, leaving a huge dust of air behind me. I saw Ms. Applejack with a huge group of ponies cheering. The pony I asked directions to SugarCube Corner is on the microphone. "The winner is....". I waited as the excitement is ready to burst. "It is a TIE!". I cheered. Yes! I am able to beat the future Dash at this rate! "Not bad for a amatuer" Dash said. "Thanks". "Well, if I hadn't waited for you, I would have won" Dash boasted. A small group of five ponies came to Dash. "Wow! Never seen that type of excitement before in my LIFE!" the pink pony screamed. "I never knew that somepony can do the Sonic Rainboom like you Dash" a yellow pony added. "Oh! Everypony, this is Blade. Blade, my friends Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Twilight and Pinkie Pie" Ms. Applejack introduced. "Hi Blade" they said. "Hello fine ladies," I replied. "Hey...I remember you. You are Applejack's alicorn cousin!" Twilight mentioned. "Applejack has a alicorn cousin?" Dash questioned. They all turned to her. "Hehe...Oh yea! Yup! He is my cuz'!". She put her hoof around me and faked her laugh. The others seem to take her trickery. "Hey Blade, wanna join our picnic to celebrate the 'second' greatest flyer?" Dash proposed. "Sure". They trotted away, telling me to follow them. I smiled and walked with them. So, this is what the bringers of the Elements were like. No wonder many ponies fell for their act of kindness and beauty in the future. Huh, that's what happened with Mom and Dad. I felt a sudden guilt in my conscience. What am I doing here? I must find the true source of Xithcotal and wipe it out! I must not waste anymore time! Eh...I will have to tag along them a little bit longer. The Past: IIIAnd so they talked. Twili...Mother talked to her friends, saying how fun it was in Canterlot. They giggled, eat and laughed during the picnic. What did I do? Nothing. That same guilt is in me. Where is my sense of loyalty? I swore to protect my family and this is how I am spending the time? Just sitting here with a bunch of giggling girls while I can search all day for the reasons of the war starting. However, I want to learn about my mother; how she came to be. I wonder how-- "Hey cuz, you alright?" Ms. Applejack asked. "Yes, yes...I am" I replied. "You hadn't touched Spike's sandwich, it is delicious you know!" Twilight added. "I'm not hungry". They stared at me, like something is wrong. "Stomach ache?" Pinkie Pie asked, "I get those A LOT!". "Maybe...Maybe" I lied. They ate looking at me. I smiled weirdly. What are they thinking about? "Hey Blade, don't mind to ask but...Where did you come from?" Rarity asked. "Why do you ask such question?" I replied. "Oh...Such clothing you wear are so...Unfamiliar. Are you sure you were from Appleloosa?". "I never seen that kind of armor, are you part of the Equestrian Guard?" Twilight said. I looked at my armor. Yes, at this time period, ponies didn't discover Mithril armor. Yes...This armor is composed of the lightest and strongest metal in my time. In the Griffon Mountains, I heard there were tons and tons of Mithril. "No...I am not part of the Equestrian Guard," I lied "Made this armor myself". "What do you do as a job?" Dash asked, "You are certainly qualified for the Wonderbolts!". "Well...I...Protect Appleloosa! Um...I am a...ambassador to keep..evil away?". They shrugged and continued eating. I sighed in relief. This is my chance to find the main source of Xithcotal! I can finally... "Hey Blade...May you help me with some things?" Rarity proposed, "I really need a strong pony around. You are strong right?". The purple dragon Spike jumped in. "Hey! I'm strong Rarity! I can lift anything just for you!" he boasted. "Oh thank you darling. They always say...The More the Merrier!". The group disbanded and I followed Spike and Rarity into her house. Just a glimpse of her room, you can tell that she is a VERY organized person. Well...Which reminds me that Ms. Rarity is always Twilight 24/7 maid every time she visits her. I remember that day when mother called me to her room.... [Flashback] "Sire, Princess Twilight heeds your presence" a guard reported. "Can it be later? I am busy looking at the scout reports". "She says 'she can't wait and needs you now'...Sire". I sighed and followed the guard to the room. He opened the door for me and two ponies were talking to each other. "Ah! Blade!" Twilight greeted "Did I call you at the wrong time?". "Maybe....". "Good, now, I want you to meet one of my oldest friends, Rarity!". The pony raised her hoof, showing a ring. She cleared her throat, signalling me to kiss the ring. Well, I kissed it and business went on. "What a fine young gentlepony you have Twilight, do you think he is eligible enough?" she said. I raised my eyebrows in confusion. "Eligible for what exactly?" I snorted. "Well," mother began "I thought that maybe...you should need someone in your company in the rest of your life?". My mouth dropped. I shook my hooves rapidly and I can feel the intense heat on my face. "NONONONONONO! I know what you guys are thinking". "Blade relax!" Mother chuckled "It is only a...Rarity....What are you doing?" I see Rarity sweep away in mother's bookshelves, organize her clothing, fixed her books, and EVEN DANGEROUS dusted the magical orbs which HOLD THE MOST DANGEROUS CRIMINALS IN THE HISTORY OF EQUESTRIA...Don't tell mother. "There! All clean!". The room seemed to shine and blazed in a bright light. I looked at my mother. Her mouth dropped. I realized that mine is dropped as well and I fixed myself. "Impressive cleaning skills" I complemented "Really impressive". "I do this all the time sweetie! Now, excuse me, I have to get my daughter to see you". Rarity skipped away, leaving my mother speechless. "Oh, and one more thing...Tell your mother she need to clean up sometime instead of studying like a geek! This room is like a jungle". [End] "Hey Blade, are you going to help or not?". I opened my eyes. Rarity and Spike stared at me. "Oh...Yes, I was just waiting" I replied. "Good! Now here are the supplies!". She let loose a huge rolled up paper that covered nearly the entire room. I expected that to happen. "Now, I need all of these items in a day!" she announced, "I better start working if I were you. Here's the money". I grabbed the money. Spike and I rushed outside with the list. Spike surprisingly rolled it up in to a smaller size. "Okay...To summarize everything, we need forty pieces of silk, each set are colors of the rainbow, a new sewing machine, paper, mannequins, banners, a glass mirror AND...and daisy sandwich?". I slapped myself in the face. I never should have helped her out. "Okay, this is the plan. I get all of the stuff while you count, I will make this quick, understand?" I said. "Well, okay...If that's what you want". I nodded and I soared in the air. I looked around for the nearest silk store. "There! Hopefully, they are still in stock" I thought. I zoomed into the store and ran to the cash register. "Give me forty pieces of silk, each set in colors of the rainbow please madam?" I asked. "Sure, give me a minute". She went away into a room. I waited impatiently for the silk. Its been passed a minute, she did not keep her word. "Here!". She gave me a HUGE chest of silk. "That will be--". I levitated the exact change and carried the box. I struggled a bit to bring it back to Spike. "Ah! We have that done! Now, let us get paper, mannequins, banners, a glass mirror and a daisy sandwich!". I rushed at getting every single thing for this blasted Rarity. I got EVERY single thing she needs and brought it back to Spike. "Check, check and CHECK! Done! Now we need to make a lettuce sandwich". "HOW IN THE HEAVENS ARE WE GOING TO MAKE A DAISY SANDWICH!" I boomed. "Um...Leave it to me!". Spike left to get the sandwich. Momentary, he came back with a bag. "There! Rarity is going to like this sandwich" he proudly said. "Hopefully...". Spike opened the door as I carried the stuff inside. "Ah...That was quicker than expected darlings! It is like you guys don't seem to care!". "No we care about your business Rarity!" Spike exclaimed. "Eh...Maybe..." I scoffed. "Anyways, thanks for your help. Hey Blade, maybe you can help Twilight with her studies while sweet Spike helps me". "I was going to leave anyways" I sighed. "Oh Twilight's house is the path straight ahead, now don't get lost darling". I closed the door and walked to the path Rarity told me. Huh, I wonder why she calls her friends "darlings?". She does seem older than the others...It doesn't matter now. All that matters is the mission. Just need to visit three more ponies, then I can continue. The Past: IVI knocked on the door. This tree house must be mother's house. I know it is...It must! So, I should I greet her? A smile? Or maybe some flowers will do...No, she will think negatively. She will think I like her. Well I DO love her, because she is my mom. However, she doesn't know that yet. I heard the door open. "Oh Blade! Came for a visit?" Twilight asked. "Yes, I did". She gladly opened the door. I gazed around, seeing a lot of mess. There were many books on the floor and scrolls were scattered. Huh, maybe we do need the 24/7 Rarity on the double. "My...what a wonderful sight to see" I clucked. "Sorry, I was just searching for a specific book, hehe". I walked around her library, searching for a interesting book. I saw a little twinkle in the corner of my eye. I turned and saw a book with a dragon's eye on it. "You want to see that book? Go ahead" Twilight said. "Thank you". I opened the book and dust swirled in the air. I coughed and shooed the dust away. "Have you ever touched any book here?" I asked. "I don't live here anymore. I live in Canterlot now with Princess Celestia. You know how--". "Yes, yes, I know" I interrupted. She rolled her eyes and I looked through the book. Wait...These are ancient dragon scriptures. Hm...I was learning how to read them from mother, until the siege. I guess I will have to make up stuff as I read. "You know how to read that? What language is that from?" Mother asked. "Dragon" I replied, "These are written from the tongues of the ancient, legendary dragons. Hmph, my mom taught me a little bit (AND she is standing next to me)". "Wait, what was the last thing you said? You spoke a bit low". "Nothing, I must read this". I emitted a beam from my horn. "Gaar Rot". I casted the spell and the words flared in fire. "Cool" Twilight commented. "Aye, that's what I said too". I skimmed through the book. There was nothing about Xithcotal...Dang, I hoped to find it here. But wait...What's this? I picked up a small piece of paper. "xithcotal, zokmul dovah do ok sonah, vis nunon kos kriaan naal sok pruzah zahreik sil" I read out loud. "What does that say?" Twilight said in confusion. "Hm...I will try to read...Xithcotal...Strongest Dragon...Be killed by...By....". I got stumped. Err...If only that blasted Xithcotal allowed me to learn his language and I will find out what is his weakness. I wished that there is a dragon in this room...No, Spike can't read this, he is not an ancient, legendary dragon. I heard the door opening. "Hey Twilight" I heard. "Oh hey Spike, how's it going with Rarity?". "Fine like always! She will be in my paws in no time! Hey, is that Blade?". "Yes, we are trying to figure out something". Spike dashed to us. He examined the book and smiled. "Hey...I can read that? It is so clear! How can you guys not read that?". What! Spike can read it? So the superstitions are not true. Any ordinary dragon can read this language! "Spike, read it to us" I commanded. "Okay...It says...Xithcotal, the strongest dragon of his kind, can only be killed by the six good heart souls". Six good hearted souls? Hm...Who can be that six? The options are broad and there can be many combinations of six ponies all around Equestria...This will be difficult. "Hey, who is this Xithcotal dragon? Sounds scary" Spike said. "It is none of your concern" I replied. "I read that for you, now you return the favor". I grunted. "Just something to learn about". Spike shrugged and hopped on his bed. Evening already? I started out the window. The sun is setting at a fast rate. "Well, it is nice meeting ya, but tomorrow, I got to Canterlot" Twilight said. She started to fix her books and arranged them by alphabetical order. She too went to her bed. "What time is the train?" I asked. "Um...ten o'clock in the morning" she yawned "Gotta get some sleep". She went KO'd after she was done speaking. I wonder what she did that made her sleep so quickly. I chuckled and tucked her in. I felt a loving sensation after I was done. I remembered mother tucked me in when I was a kid. Those were the times. I turned off all lights and went outside. I turned and face the silence of the town. I sighed and flew back to Apple Acres. I landed in front of the barn. "So this is where I will sleep" I sighed "Gotta live with it". I heard a voice calling my name. It was Ms. Applejack's voice. "Blade! What are you doing?". "Um...Going to sleep?". "In there? Come inside, the others are sleeping already". I ran to the house. She allowed me to enter inside. I glanced at her house. Old classic western styles all over the house. I saw a portrait of two ponies. One is male, another is a female. "Who are these ponies?" I asked. Applejack's face turned gloomy. I was shocked that I asked such question. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean--". "Nah, it's alright. To be honest...I didn't know what happened to them. Granny Smith says that they 'disappeared' somehow". I felt the sadness overwhelmed me. I never knew such thing. I'm stupid to ask such question. I gazed in the stars and saw two comets blaze across the sky. "Your room is next to mine," Applejack said "When yer ready, just go to sleep. Gonna go now". She slowly went up the stairs. I went outside and sat on the porch. It is weird how me and Applejack both don;t know what happened to our parents. My father, "magically" disappeared after that day and Applejack's as well. Well, ponies who witnessed that event in my life said that the demons took his soul and perished the body in front of them. Bah...Thinking about this makes me depressed. I should get some sleep, I need to get on that train. All Ends Well...Or Does It?"Well, they're gone" Rarity said. "Hmmm, I miss Twilight and Spike already" Pinkie said. "How about you Blade? Do you miss them both?" Fluttershy asked. I stared the train accelerate and disappear in the hole of the mountain. I sighed. I do miss mother, but I am seeing her anyways after I am done finding Xithcotal's weakness. And that's the reason why I DON'T miss her. Too many distractions from her and her friends. "So, what now?" Rainbow Dash asked. "Guess its back to the farm" Applejack sighed. The others shuffled away. However, Fluttershy remained. She shook her head several times and talked to herself. "No no...I can't let him! I can't..." she muttered. "Is there something wrong Fluttershy?" I asked. "What? Of course not..." she said smiling. Her smile faded away quickly and her face gloomed. Something IS wrong with her. "You are lying" I sneered. "Ugh...No point hiding it" she admitted. "Um...It is easy to tell that you are sad since you look like you just had a funeral". She asked me to walk with her to her home. She told me she will explain along the way, so I followed. We exited the station and went into the town. "What's the matter Fluttershy?" I asked again. "Its this new critter I have," she explained, "I can't tell if it is a cute, snuggly critter, or a monster". "Oh? Why so?". "Well...At some times, it acted nice, playing with the birds and other critters in my home. But that night...". She stopped talking and walking. Boy, she must had a night. "The birds were gone, only feathers. Only bones in every single critter I have in my home. How? Tell me HOW!'. She started to cry. Hm...That critter seems devious. "Do you know who did it?". "I blame 'it', but I am not sure" she sobbed. I thought for a moment as she cried in the open. "Well, lets go to 'it'. I might know what the creature is" I said. "Really?". "Eh...Maybe. But it's worth the time". "Thank you Blade...You are a kind friend to help me out". What she did reminds me the time I spent with her in the Gala Gardens... [Flashback] "Hey Blade...Who is that pony right there? She looks sooo depressed" one of my friends said. "Why do you mention her? My mother's friend? Does she concern to the party now?". "Just saying mane, you don't always have to go cold-hearted on ponies these days". "I be whatever I want to be" I snapped. I flared my eyes at him. "Dude, you should take a break from this war stuff. Go lighten her up or something. She is wasting her ticket if she is just standing there depressed". I frowned at him and uttered a snort. "Fine, now go with your buddies and drink". My friend rolled his eyes and went away. I realized a bird was on top of my back. "Shoo fiend". It chirped and gallantly went to Ms. Fluttershy. It seemed to talk to it as I went to her. It suddenly flew away as I was about to introduce myself. "Hello Ms. Fluttershy, my name is--". "Blade Sparkle no? Nice to meet you" she interrupted. She shook my hoof unexpectedly. That is odd. How did she know my name? "I knew your name because your mother talks about you a lot" she said as she answered my question. "Do you have psychic powers madam?" I asked. "No no...Everypony says that. But my friends do most of the work". The same bird that landed on my back is on Ms. Fluttershy. It chirped as if was saying hi to me. I was about to take out my spear, but Ms. Fluttershy stopped me. Her green eyes sparkled as I glanced at them. "I can see it in your eyes, war rages in your heart" she said sadly. "Because a war is happening right now" I grunted, "Everypony says I'm a cold-hearted pony". "And they are true," she agreed, "Why is that?". A bunny came and stomped his feet several times. He let out his paw and I shook it. "Such manners Angel. Angel, Blade. Blade, Angel". "Um...Hi?". It looked away and folded its arms. "Why is he acting like that?" I asked. "Oh...He says that you destroyed his relative's home as you were on a quest" she replied. "It was in my way? Hello! I got an army to lead". The bunny hopped away from me. I grit my teeth. "Is it because of revenge no?" she speculated, "I heard that your father died mysterious that day". I looked at the floor and frowned. What she said made me think. Is she right? Or it is that I am bloodthirsty and want to kill more? "Well, I have to go, your mother invited me to her table, nice--". "Wait...Why here? Why did you come here but not to the Gala?". She giggled and looked to the garden. "This garden is paradise to me. Every year, I get to see it. A year is a very long time, so I enjoy it will it lasts. Did I answer your question?". I nodded. "Explore this garden and your will be able to find the true meaning of your hatred. Nice to meet your Blade Sparkle". She left the garden, leaving me alone. I smiled and looked into the gardens...Maybe it is time to find my true hatred. [End] Fluttershy opened her front door slowly. Her house is dark and silent. Dang, I wish I had my spear for protection. "Well...Here--Here he is..." she stuttered. Something creaked in the house. I pushed Fluttershy back a little as the creature reveals itself. I waited and waited and waited...Out comes a small bunny. "Angel?" we both said. Fluttershy's looked surprised. "You know Angel?". "Um...I guess?". "Nice one". I examined Angel. He had blood on his face and he had big eyes. Something must have happened inside. I saw a really long fire iron iron that resembles a spear. I took it and went inside the house. "Open the light Fluttershy" I ordered. Fluttershy searched for the light switch and found it. She flipped it open and out of nowhere...No...It can't be! "Gr....". A mini-sized Xithcotal, growling in front of my eyes! It breathed in flames and turned its head to Fluttershy. "You...I told you not to tell anypony about me!" it boomed. Fluttershy hid behind me. The creature turned to me. "You...Who are you? You are not worthy to fight the most powerful dragon in the world!". "Then I challenge you. If I win, you tell me your weakness. If you win, I die" I challenged. Fluttershy whimpered. "Blade! You can't! We just met and you are willing to sacrifice yourself?". I smiled at Fluttershy. "That is why I'm going to win". The dragon unleashed its fiery breath as soon I was done talking. I tackled Fluttershy out of the way. We landed hard at the side of her house. "Are you alright?" I asked. "Yes..I am" she coughed. I heard the dragon chuckle. "Foolish ponies...I am the strongest dragon you will ever face!" mini Xithcotal said "I fought worse than you, runt" I taunted. It unleashed its breath again. I quickly emitted a spell in my horn. "Barreria!". A barrier formed around me and Fluttershy. It blocked the intense fire. The fire stopped but the dragon wasn't there. "Look out above!" Fluttershy pointed out. I looked up and I saw the dragon soar down at a great speed. "Allsmäktiga vindar och åska! Släpp loss din ilska!" I shouted. I casted the spell from my horn and it hit the dragon. The dragon was stunned in the air. The sky darkened and the storm created horrible winds. It spun the dragon 'round and 'round, then suddenly, the air pierced through the dragon's skin. A lightning bolt above dealt the final blow. It made Xithcotal fall. All that end well. "Hehehe...". I glared at the dragon as it went back up. What? It regenerates! "Foolish boy, that was pretty impressive, but that cannot defeat me". I emitted the spell again. "Allsmäktiga vindar och--". The dragon soared in the air and dived towards me. He was so fast, that he interrupted my spell and clawed me. Thank god for my mithril armor, or I would have been dead already. He sended me off flying back. I regained myself in mid-air and I charged at him. I yelled and I stabbed my fire iron it. I managed to pierce a small opening in the scales. It screamed in agony. "Gotcha!". I tried pulling out the fire iron, but it wouldn't budge. "Haha! Die!" Xithcotal laughed. She swung his tail onto my face and I embraced the cold ground. The intense heat burned my skin as I went up. "How? How is that possible? That was a Master Wizard spell!". It chuckled. "You really want to know? Hehe. I shall answer your question. Only the Elements can defeat me". No wonder! Six ponies, six elements! I am so stupid. "Now, you shall die and I will eat every single one your heart cherishes". He slammed his body into me and I coughed out blood. I am put against a tree and the dragon is going to eat my head off. "Hahaha! You are up next Fluttershy after I am done with him!". He swung his tail and hit Fluttershy, knocking her out cold. He used his sharp claw and somehow pierced my armor. Impossible! How is that possible? "I am going to die...I failed to rescue the future...Everything I fought for...Ruined...". He lifted me up with his claw. The pain...It hurts so much. He opened his jaw wide and I closed my eyes... "DIE!!!!" Xithcotal laughed. Why did I fail? What am I? A coward? "Father...Forgive me..." I muttered.....
The EndI ran dramatically to my mother's dorm. A group of soldiers escorted me as I climbed the flight of stairs. "We will cover you as much as you can," captain Silver said. "Thank you, we must protect the Elements". I forced the door open, making a loud bang. There goes my mother, studying as usual. "Mother, we must leave at once" I announced. She raised her eyebrow. "I know, I know," she said rolling her eyes, "I can feel the sense of danger already, sheesh". "This is no laughing matter, you must drop your scrolls and books and leave!" I urged. She still is packing her belongings. I waited impatiently as she put her scrolls in her bag by using her magic. The castle shook as we waited for her to finish. "There, every last one!" she said giggling. "You still act like a child mother" I sighed. "You are taking this too seriously! Cheer up Blade!". She skipped away as I carried her eighty pound books. "Sire, do you need of assistance?" Silver asked. "Nah, I got it" I said. We went down the stairs quickly and out into the castle gates. A carriage is waiting for us. "Silver, I trust your men to do this job efficiently" I choked. "Mrs. Twilight Sparkle is indeed in our utmost care mi-lord, they will be off on their merry way". I went to my mother as she looked at the carriage. "Mother, this might be--". "Aw, don't think that way Blade! Remember what I taught you!" Twilight said. We hugged each other. I can tell she is on the verge of tears. "I will return, but now, you must leave Canterlot and go to Ponyville". She went into the carriage and the carriage swiftly sped away. I stared at the carriage until it disappeared into the nearest corner. "Report mi-lord". "Yes, what is it?". "Thou dragon! It is making its move!". I grit my teeth. "Send every regiment to the front gates at once!" I commanded, "Make sure when the bloody thirsty dragon destroys the gates, no Shadow enters". The soldier bowed and galloped. I unsheathed my spear and flew to the front gates. I heard ponies shouting out orders as they barricaded the Shadows. "Hold men! Spears front!". I saw ponies stabbing their spears into the Shadows, trying to hold the advance. I landed next to a familiar pony. "Uncle Shining Armor" I greeted, bowing. "Is she away?" he asked. "For now, the dragon will never know". "This siege is wearing us down lad, I don't know how long we can hold" he confessed. "Aye, but our soldiers are strong" I argued. We heard a dragon's roar. No, here he comes. "Abandon posts now!" Shining Armor shouted. Soldiers ran in terror as the ground rumbled. Ponies went into their ranks, holding their spears ready. The rumbling stopped, no sound was made. "Come out you.." I thought. Silence....All silence.... BOOOOOOOOM A huge explosion occurred and we all fell to the ground. Ash and smoke filled the air. I opened my eyes, slowly. The smoke is still thick as I squinted to find a pony, any. "Help...". I quickly turned around and galloped to the call. I stopped and looked around. I waited for the call again, but nothing. "Mhmmmmm...". I gasped. No....No.... "Hahaha....". The smoke suddenly cleared. Something red glowed behind me. "The end child, is coming..." it said. I slowly turned around, in terror. Xithcotal, the king of beasts, stared upon me. He is five times bigger than the Canterlot castle and his red eyes glared at me. "Give up your mother and you shall live" he commanded. "My grave!" I dared. He chuckled. "I will heed you request". I heard loud growls from the front gates. The Shadows roared themselves into Canterlot, showing their fangs. The dark army crowed upon me. Thousands and thousands surrounded me. I took a random spear from the floor and waved it. "Your death will come swiftly" the dragon snickered. The Shadows charged at me. "Barreira" I chanted. A magical barrier formed around me, preventing the Shadows to touch me. "Döden från himlen!". I jumped in the air and slammed my spear to the floor. It created a light aura wave which blasted many Shadows. However, they're still coming. I stabbed my spear countlessly to the nearest Shadows, but it is hopeless. I spread my wings and flew to the air. I gasped and breathed heavily. "Foolish boy, minions, fly!". The Shadows begin to spread their wings as well, and zoomed towards me. Holy Equestria, they are after me! I charged to them, holding my spear in front. In a instant, I was in the heart of the swarm. I cut down endless waves of Shadows. More and more came as I kill a couple, a dozen, hundreds. "This is not doing anything..." I thought. I managed to get out of the horde. They clumped together and all charged at me. I concentrated and light emitted from my horn. I raised my spear and closed my eyes. "I can't believe I have to do this". A dark aura surrounded my spear. Thousands and thousands of Shadows came closer every second. I waited for the right moment. "Death awaits". I slashed. A gargantuan black aura slash is released. The Shadows don't seem to care about it. I watched it go to the first Shadow. I turned around and I didn't look back. KA-BOOOOOOM! The earth rumbled as the explosion blasted all of the Shadows, that I assumed. It had created a loud bang and a powerful shock wave. There is silence now. I turned around. I embraced a powerful magic spell. I gasped and it hit me. I felt pain and fell to the ground hard. "YOU....I SHALL END THIS AND EQUESTRIA WITH IT!". The dragon flew upwards and charged a beam. I crawled in agony, trying to reach for the spear. "Don't...Blade". My eyes widened. Shining Armor stopped me from getting the spear. Blood fell from his mouth and he coughed some out. A huge debris is on top of him, decapitating his lower body. "Uncle I--". "Promise me...that you will change all of this..." he coughed. I got up slowly and begin to move the huge stone. "Enough...You are wasting...energy...". "STOP IT!" I sobbed, "I am getting you out...". I can hear the dragon's laugh. "Hahaha! DIE!". I looked at uncle. He is trying to cast a spell, but I know that whatever he is doing will not help. I went on my knees. I closed my eyes...awaiting my fate...
The Past: I.I opened my eyes, seeing light shine its way. I blinked a couple of times, wondering how the HECK did I get here. I moaned as I attempted to stand. I stood perfectly fine, no body parts shattered. "Weird," I thought. I touched myself. My skin felt warm and hard. I am still alive, but how? I looked around my environment. Everything looks so familiar... "HmmmHmmm". I quickly hid behind a tree and waited. A familiar orange coated pony came about, kicking these apple trees. I watched as the apples fell, landing into the baskets in such accuracy. She turned into my direction. I hid again. "Hello?". I heard the pony trotting to me. Sugarcakes, what should I do? Hey, that teleportation spell mother taught me. I still can't control it, but it is worth a try. "Whoever is behind my tree, I won't hurt ya, just come out". I concentrated and looked at another apple tree. I closed my eyes and I heard the air piercing through my ears, I opened my eyes and I am in the air. "Holy--". I screamed and fell to the ground, hitting the ground hard. I moaned and got up. "Are you alright?". "Yes," I replied, "I am just...HUH?". "Whats the matter?". "Ms. Applejack?". Applejack raised her eyebrow in confusion. "Did we ever meet?" Applejack jeered. "What? YES we have met when....". I thought for a moment. "Am I in...Ponyville?" I asked. She nodded. "WHAT! I AM SUPPOSED TO BE FIGHTING XITHCOTAL! DIDN'T THE WORLD END?" I exclaimed. "Who is Xit...Whatever he/she is?" Applejack asked. "AAAAAHHHHHH! WHAT IS THIS MADNESS!". I waved my hooves rapidly and I was having a nervous breakdown. I started talking out loud. "This gotta be witchcraft...Yes, yes! No no...Maybe the Heavens gave me a chance to...Save the world? Maybe....MAYBE? HOW IS IT A MAYBE? WHAT AM I DOING HERE! I'M SUPPOSED TO BE DEAD. Or am I? Maybe I should jump a cliff or...". Applejack giggled. "Whats so funny? Huh? WHAT IS SO FUNNY?". She started to laugh. "Oh, you just remind me of my friend Twilight. I heard from Spike that she panicked like that and start acting crazy when she couldn't find a friendship lesson for Celestia" she giggled. I relaxed myself and smiled. "Ponies do say I am related to my mother" I thought out loud. Applejack widened her eyes and her mouth dropped. "Twilight has a child? Wha...Wha...Are you her...Who in the name Celestia are you?". I slapped myself in the face, saying that I am related to Twilight. I am so stupid. "Too late to lie now. Will you believe me that I came from the future?". Applejack is still shocked, not showing any expression. She blushed a little bit. "Uh...I hit you hard with that didn't I?". She shook her head and smiled. "Gawsh...Sorry bout' that. It is just that...Wow, I never knew Twilight had a child in the future. A very fine...Uh.." she said. "Oh?". "No no! Don't take it wrong!" she objected, "Twilight is the greatest friend I ever had!". "Take what wrong?" a voice said. Ms. Applejack shrieked and fell to the ground. A familiar alicorn is standing in front of Ms. Applejack in confusion. "My Ms. Applejack, are you alright?" I asked. "Yeah, I am, thanks" she replied. "Oh Applejack, we are having a picnic today and...Who's he?". "Oh...Twilight...This is--". I shook my head rapidly. "This is...my cousin! Yea...Cousin in Appleloosa!" Ms. Applejack cheerfully said. I sighed in relief. "You have a alicorn cousin?" Twilight beamed. Applejack nodded in approval. "Oh okay...What's your name?" Twilight asked. "Blade... Name's Blade" I said in a western accent "Nice to meet ya". I shook Mother's hoof. "Hey Blade, want to join our picnic? I was going to tell Applejack make some apple pies" Twilight suggested. "Um...Sure..." I said Twilight trotted away. I glanced at her. So, this is what she looked like when she is at her young age. No wonder why Father loved her: appearance, sounds nice. I closed my eyes and thought what my father told me how they met. [Flashback] "Hey sonny, come here" Father called. "Yes father?". "Have I ever told you how me and your mother met?". "No". My father chuckled and told me to follow him. "I heard that she and her gang of friends saved Equestria a couple of times and that she was in the Crystal Kingdom to study her magic, so I went to look. I took a train to the Crystal Kingdom with five hundred people on board. I never went to the Crystal Kingdom before, but the sights amaze me. They were holding a magic contest and SHE is hosting one. So I applied and won every round. And there...We gazed upon each other and that is where the magic started! What do you think?". "Hmph, in these times, love is not important in war" I grunted. My father shook his head. "Love will find you, even in the hardest times son, now I have to go to a meeting. Love you sonny". "See you father". I watched him walk with the guards until he went into the meeting room. I continued onward down the hall. [End] I sighed. That day was the last time I saw my father. It depresses me thinking about that day. "Hey 'Cousin', gonna help with the apples?" Applejack proposed. "Huh? Yeah sure". I levitated all good apples and placed them in the baskets. I levitated one towards me and ate one. The sweet taste of the apple poured all over my taste buds. Mmm, delicious. "I remember that Twilight helped me out on that day" Applejack pondered, "Was being selfish that day, thinking I can cover acres and acres of apple trees". "Oh really? And when was that?". "A year ago" she replied, "Anyways, I gotta make some delicious apple pie! Be back in a jiffy!". Ms. Applejack trotted off, leaving me here. I sniffed the air and sighed in relief. It is good to be home. Yes, Ponyville is my home. I was born here, raised for a year, then went to Canterlot. I still remember the freshness of the spring air when I was little. Hard to remember, but I can get a glimpse of it. *Giggle*. I alerted my senses and looked around. I heard a giggle, a devious one. *Giggle*. I turned to its direction and started to walk to it...
The Past: II.I walked to the sound of the devious giggling noise. I heard many Shadows communicate like that during the war, so they might be here. How were they able to get to the past? That is impossible. No...It is impossible for me to travel back as well. So there might be a possibility that... *Giggle*. The sound is getting louder with every step I take. I saw a cloud and a female pony on it. She appears to be sleeping on it, looks like she is a normal pony. Wait...I saw some Shadows disguise as normal ponies, so I can't take the risk. I slowly walked to the "Shadow", getting ready to strike. *Giggle*. It communicated again! It is trying to get help! I need to attack it now! *Mutter Mutter*. Now it is my chance! "COME HERE!" I hollered. I jumped and attempted to restrain the Shadow. It struggled a lot, but I achieved in ending its struggle. "Gotcha!" I chuckled, "Now, how did Xithcotal get you here?". "What's your problem man? Let me go!" It pled. "State your business and I will release you". "Well, I was asleep..." it replied. "Okay...And what--". It flipped me over, leaving me on the ground. She snorted in triumph and stood on top of me. "My turn...Now who exactly are you to tell me--". "Rainbow Dash! What are you doing?". Ms. Applejack came to the rescue! Didn't she say...Rainbow Dash? Oh jeez, I messed with the greatest flyer in Equestria. "This dude sneak attacked me, but I threw him across and trompled him. Easy peasy lemon squeezy" she boasted. "Um...I let my guard down and plus, you're a girl" I scoffed. "Quiet you!". She smacked me in the face. I felt the heat on the right side of my face. "Hey Rainbow Dash! You can't treat my guest like that!" Applejack hollered. "He hit me first! It is called payback!" Rainbow Dash protested. Rainbow Dash got off from me and argued with Applejack. I got up and brushed myself off. I watched them argue and argue and argue. They were in it really deep, that most of the stuff they mentioned probably asked for a challenge or a dare. I laughed out loud and I couldn't stop. It just reminds me of something funny. "What's so funny?" Ms. Dash growled. I stopped laughing and catched my breath. "Oh...It is just something..." I snickered. "Tell us, we want to know" Applejack insisted. "Okay, but this will not be funny for you guys" I chuckled. "It is at the evening party of my parents. The scenario was perfect for a wedding...Well, until you guys were arguing. There is this fine gentle pony named...Named...". I stopped talking and tried to think of that pony's name. "JUST CUT TO THE CHASE" Ms. Dash retorted. "Fine...You two were arguing about who should dance with him. I can tell you two when in love with him, so you guys made a mini-race track outside. Two challenged each other in a race. I asked if I can join and agreed. We had both of our wings tied. Us three raced. You Dash, were ahead, so I bit your tail, swung you around and rammed you into Ms. Applejack. You both tumbled and...AND...". I laughed hard again. "What?" Applejack said in confusion. "You guys made the most funniest faces as you realized I won!" I finished. "So is that a challenge huh?" Ms. Dash proposed. I stopped laughing. "No no...It isn't--". "Is that a story you made up to make me believe that you are faster than me? Huh...Are you the one who finished second place in the Running of the Leaves? Ha!". "No...It is just that I--". "Cheated? Well, lets see who is faster. The one who can race all around Ponyville three times!!" Dash hissed, "The race ends at Sugar Cube Corner". "Sorry, I don't want to join" I ranted. "Too scared? Aw...Poor 'Mr. Tough Guy' too scared to beat me? Ha!" she teased. I flared and grunted. "Fine, just this once" I barked. Applejack made a starting line and we prepared ourselves. "Prepare to lose" Dash chortled. I shook my head and sighed. "On your mark...Get set...". I closed my eyes again and another flashback appeared. [Flashback] "Keep on flapping those wings!". I swirled around the lap a few more times then I stopped to catch my breath. "Good, your new record is a minute and thirty seconds" Ms. Dash reported. "Wow...I passed my record" I gasped, "What is your record?". "Thirty seconds" she crowed. "I need to train more in order to surpass you Ms. Dash, no wonder ponies consider me the second best". "Bah, you have a long way to go kiddo, come now and let us eat some Pinkie's cake for once. I'm starving". [End] "GOOOOOOO!". I zoomed away to Sugar Cube Corner. I accelerated faster than Ms. Dash can handle. She glared at me and soon afterwards caught up to me. "Hey, stop staring and look what's in front of you for once" she suggested. "Huh?". I rammed into a tree and I became dizzy. I saw little Ms. Dashies flying in my vision. I quickly shook my head and went on. I lost sight of Ms. Dash, but I saw a pink pony skipping away. "Excuse me miss? Do you know where is Sugar Cube Corner?" I asked. "Oh! Over there!" she replied in a delightful manner. "Thank you kind madam". "Racing Rainbow Dash huh? Ooh! She is the fastest flyer in Equestria!" she squealed. "Do you know where she is?" I questioned. "Oh, over your head sticking her tongue at you". I looked up and saw Ms. Dash stick her tongue at me. "Loser!" she teased. "Why you little runt!" I stormed. We continued racing against each other. We went around two laps and up to the final. We were at The Farm, making a circular loop around it then raced to SugarCube corner. "This ends now!" she boomed. I saw her speeding up in a fast rate. Wait...She is attempting the Sonic RainBoom!. "Oh no you don't!" I cried. I closed my eyes once again and a memory appeared. [Flashback] "Hey chump, have I ever taught you the Sonic Rainboom?". "No, why?". "Oh, I can teach you it now" Dash said. "It is impossible for me to do. Only you, the greatest flyer in Equestria, can achieve it" I disagreed. "Hey, the greatest military commander, right here next to me? Come on now! Where is that sense of honor that you guys babble about". "Thank you but I'll pass" I denied. "Hey! I am your master and your are my student! YOU have to do what I say". "I know that I am your student, but I think I have done enough". I soon began to walk away as I was done speaking. "Okay...This trick may save your life you know...". I turned around. "How exactly?" I questioned. Dash smiled. "Curiosity. I see all over in your face". "Of course! If it is involved in saving lives, or mine, I must learn it at once!" I announced. "Now we are talking. Okay...This is how I did the Sonic Rainboom...". [End] She seems to ignore me and concentrated on her momentum. "Okay Blade...Show Ms. Dash what you are made of!" I thought. I gained momentum as well, catching up to her. I saw her turn smaller and smaller, but I call tell that we are both at the right speed. I looked in front of me. I did the final boost and I achieved the Sonic Rainboom. I never felt so alive! The wind pierced through my ear drums and my cheeks felt icy. I stopped myself as I saw Sugarcube Corner, leaving a huge dust of air behind me. I saw Ms. Applejack with a huge group of ponies cheering. The pony I asked directions to SugarCube Corner is on the microphone. "The winner is....". I waited as the excitement is ready to burst. "It is a TIE!". I cheered. Yes! I am able to beat the future Dash at this rate! "Not bad for a amatuer" Dash said. "Thanks". "Well, if I hadn't waited for you, I would have won" Dash boasted. A small group of five ponies came to Dash. "Wow! Never seen that type of excitement before in my LIFE!" the pink pony screamed. "I never knew that somepony can do the Sonic Rainboom like you Dash" a yellow pony added. "Oh! Everypony, this is Blade. Blade, my friends Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Twilight and Pinkie Pie" Ms. Applejack introduced. "Hi Blade" they said. "Hello fine ladies," I replied. "Hey...I remember you. You are Applejack's alicorn cousin!" Twilight mentioned. "Applejack has a alicorn cousin?" Dash questioned. They all turned to her. "Hehe...Oh yea! Yup! He is my cuz'!". She put her hoof around me and faked her laugh. The others seem to take her trickery. "Hey Blade, wanna join our picnic to celebrate the 'second' greatest flyer?" Dash proposed. "Sure". They trotted away, telling me to follow them. I smiled and walked with them. So, this is what the bringers of the Elements were like. No wonder many ponies fell for their act of kindness and beauty in the future. Huh, that's what happened with Mom and Dad. I felt a sudden guilt in my conscience. What am I doing here? I must find the true source of Xithcotal and wipe it out! I must not waste anymore time! Eh...I will have to tag along them a little bit longer.
The Past: IIIAnd so they talked. Twili...Mother talked to her friends, saying how fun it was in Canterlot. They giggled, eat and laughed during the picnic. What did I do? Nothing. That same guilt is in me. Where is my sense of loyalty? I swore to protect my family and this is how I am spending the time? Just sitting here with a bunch of giggling girls while I can search all day for the reasons of the war starting. However, I want to learn about my mother; how she came to be. I wonder how-- "Hey cuz, you alright?" Ms. Applejack asked. "Yes, yes...I am" I replied. "You hadn't touched Spike's sandwich, it is delicious you know!" Twilight added. "I'm not hungry". They stared at me, like something is wrong. "Stomach ache?" Pinkie Pie asked, "I get those A LOT!". "Maybe...Maybe" I lied. They ate looking at me. I smiled weirdly. What are they thinking about? "Hey Blade, don't mind to ask but...Where did you come from?" Rarity asked. "Why do you ask such question?" I replied. "Oh...Such clothing you wear are so...Unfamiliar. Are you sure you were from Appleloosa?". "I never seen that kind of armor, are you part of the Equestrian Guard?" Twilight said. I looked at my armor. Yes, at this time period, ponies didn't discover Mithril armor. Yes...This armor is composed of the lightest and strongest metal in my time. In the Griffon Mountains, I heard there were tons and tons of Mithril. "No...I am not part of the Equestrian Guard," I lied "Made this armor myself". "What do you do as a job?" Dash asked, "You are certainly qualified for the Wonderbolts!". "Well...I...Protect Appleloosa! Um...I am a...ambassador to keep..evil away?". They shrugged and continued eating. I sighed in relief. This is my chance to find the main source of Xithcotal! I can finally... "Hey Blade...May you help me with some things?" Rarity proposed, "I really need a strong pony around. You are strong right?". The purple dragon Spike jumped in. "Hey! I'm strong Rarity! I can lift anything just for you!" he boasted. "Oh thank you darling. They always say...The More the Merrier!". The group disbanded and I followed Spike and Rarity into her house. Just a glimpse of her room, you can tell that she is a VERY organized person. Well...Which reminds me that Ms. Rarity is always Twilight 24/7 maid every time she visits her. I remember that day when mother called me to her room.... [Flashback] "Sire, Princess Twilight heeds your presence" a guard reported. "Can it be later? I am busy looking at the scout reports". "She says 'she can't wait and needs you now'...Sire". I sighed and followed the guard to the room. He opened the door for me and two ponies were talking to each other. "Ah! Blade!" Twilight greeted "Did I call you at the wrong time?". "Maybe....". "Good, now, I want you to meet one of my oldest friends, Rarity!". The pony raised her hoof, showing a ring. She cleared her throat, signalling me to kiss the ring. Well, I kissed it and business went on. "What a fine young gentlepony you have Twilight, do you think he is eligible enough?" she said. I raised my eyebrows in confusion. "Eligible for what exactly?" I snorted. "Well," mother began "I thought that maybe...you should need someone in your company in the rest of your life?". My mouth dropped. I shook my hooves rapidly and I can feel the intense heat on my face. "NONONONONONO! I know what you guys are thinking". "Blade relax!" Mother chuckled "It is only a...Rarity....What are you doing?" I see Rarity sweep away in mother's bookshelves, organize her clothing, fixed her books, and EVEN DANGEROUS dusted the magical orbs which HOLD THE MOST DANGEROUS CRIMINALS IN THE HISTORY OF EQUESTRIA...Don't tell mother. "There! All clean!". The room seemed to shine and blazed in a bright light. I looked at my mother. Her mouth dropped. I realized that mine is dropped as well and I fixed myself. "Impressive cleaning skills" I complemented "Really impressive". "I do this all the time sweetie! Now, excuse me, I have to get my daughter to see you". Rarity skipped away, leaving my mother speechless. "Oh, and one more thing...Tell your mother she need to clean up sometime instead of studying like a geek! This room is like a jungle". [End] "Hey Blade, are you going to help or not?". I opened my eyes. Rarity and Spike stared at me. "Oh...Yes, I was just waiting" I replied. "Good! Now here are the supplies!". She let loose a huge rolled up paper that covered nearly the entire room. I expected that to happen. "Now, I need all of these items in a day!" she announced, "I better start working if I were you. Here's the money". I grabbed the money. Spike and I rushed outside with the list. Spike surprisingly rolled it up in to a smaller size. "Okay...To summarize everything, we need forty pieces of silk, each set are colors of the rainbow, a new sewing machine, paper, mannequins, banners, a glass mirror AND...and daisy sandwich?". I slapped myself in the face. I never should have helped her out. "Okay, this is the plan. I get all of the stuff while you count, I will make this quick, understand?" I said. "Well, okay...If that's what you want". I nodded and I soared in the air. I looked around for the nearest silk store. "There! Hopefully, they are still in stock" I thought. I zoomed into the store and ran to the cash register. "Give me forty pieces of silk, each set in colors of the rainbow please madam?" I asked. "Sure, give me a minute". She went away into a room. I waited impatiently for the silk. Its been passed a minute, she did not keep her word. "Here!". She gave me a HUGE chest of silk. "That will be--". I levitated the exact change and carried the box. I struggled a bit to bring it back to Spike. "Ah! We have that done! Now, let us get paper, mannequins, banners, a glass mirror and a daisy sandwich!". I rushed at getting every single thing for this blasted Rarity. I got EVERY single thing she needs and brought it back to Spike. "Check, check and CHECK! Done! Now we need to make a lettuce sandwich". "HOW IN THE HEAVENS ARE WE GOING TO MAKE A DAISY SANDWICH!" I boomed. "Um...Leave it to me!". Spike left to get the sandwich. Momentary, he came back with a bag. "There! Rarity is going to like this sandwich" he proudly said. "Hopefully...". Spike opened the door as I carried the stuff inside. "Ah...That was quicker than expected darlings! It is like you guys don't seem to care!". "No we care about your business Rarity!" Spike exclaimed. "Eh...Maybe..." I scoffed. "Anyways, thanks for your help. Hey Blade, maybe you can help Twilight with her studies while sweet Spike helps me". "I was going to leave anyways" I sighed. "Oh Twilight's house is the path straight ahead, now don't get lost darling". I closed the door and walked to the path Rarity told me. Huh, I wonder why she calls her friends "darlings?". She does seem older than the others...It doesn't matter now. All that matters is the mission. Just need to visit three more ponies, then I can continue.
The Past: IVI knocked on the door. This tree house must be mother's house. I know it is...It must! So, I should I greet her? A smile? Or maybe some flowers will do...No, she will think negatively. She will think I like her. Well I DO love her, because she is my mom. However, she doesn't know that yet. I heard the door open. "Oh Blade! Came for a visit?" Twilight asked. "Yes, I did". She gladly opened the door. I gazed around, seeing a lot of mess. There were many books on the floor and scrolls were scattered. Huh, maybe we do need the 24/7 Rarity on the double. "My...what a wonderful sight to see" I clucked. "Sorry, I was just searching for a specific book, hehe". I walked around her library, searching for a interesting book. I saw a little twinkle in the corner of my eye. I turned and saw a book with a dragon's eye on it. "You want to see that book? Go ahead" Twilight said. "Thank you". I opened the book and dust swirled in the air. I coughed and shooed the dust away. "Have you ever touched any book here?" I asked. "I don't live here anymore. I live in Canterlot now with Princess Celestia. You know how--". "Yes, yes, I know" I interrupted. She rolled her eyes and I looked through the book. Wait...These are ancient dragon scriptures. Hm...I was learning how to read them from mother, until the siege. I guess I will have to make up stuff as I read. "You know how to read that? What language is that from?" Mother asked. "Dragon" I replied, "These are written from the tongues of the ancient, legendary dragons. Hmph, my mom taught me a little bit (AND she is standing next to me)". "Wait, what was the last thing you said? You spoke a bit low". "Nothing, I must read this". I emitted a beam from my horn. "Gaar Rot". I casted the spell and the words flared in fire. "Cool" Twilight commented. "Aye, that's what I said too". I skimmed through the book. There was nothing about Xithcotal...Dang, I hoped to find it here. But wait...What's this? I picked up a small piece of paper. "xithcotal, zokmul dovah do ok sonah, vis nunon kos kriaan naal sok pruzah zahreik sil" I read out loud. "What does that say?" Twilight said in confusion. "Hm...I will try to read...Xithcotal...Strongest Dragon...Be killed by...By....". I got stumped. Err...If only that blasted Xithcotal allowed me to learn his language and I will find out what is his weakness. I wished that there is a dragon in this room...No, Spike can't read this, he is not an ancient, legendary dragon. I heard the door opening. "Hey Twilight" I heard. "Oh hey Spike, how's it going with Rarity?". "Fine like always! She will be in my paws in no time! Hey, is that Blade?". "Yes, we are trying to figure out something". Spike dashed to us. He examined the book and smiled. "Hey...I can read that? It is so clear! How can you guys not read that?". What! Spike can read it? So the superstitions are not true. Any ordinary dragon can read this language! "Spike, read it to us" I commanded. "Okay...It says...Xithcotal, the strongest dragon of his kind, can only be killed by the six good heart souls". Six good hearted souls? Hm...Who can be that six? The options are broad and there can be many combinations of six ponies all around Equestria...This will be difficult. "Hey, who is this Xithcotal dragon? Sounds scary" Spike said. "It is none of your concern" I replied. "I read that for you, now you return the favor". I grunted. "Just something to learn about". Spike shrugged and hopped on his bed. Evening already? I started out the window. The sun is setting at a fast rate. "Well, it is nice meeting ya, but tomorrow, I got to Canterlot" Twilight said. She started to fix her books and arranged them by alphabetical order. She too went to her bed. "What time is the train?" I asked. "Um...ten o'clock in the morning" she yawned "Gotta get some sleep". She went KO'd after she was done speaking. I wonder what she did that made her sleep so quickly. I chuckled and tucked her in. I felt a loving sensation after I was done. I remembered mother tucked me in when I was a kid. Those were the times. I turned off all lights and went outside. I turned and face the silence of the town. I sighed and flew back to Apple Acres. I landed in front of the barn. "So this is where I will sleep" I sighed "Gotta live with it". I heard a voice calling my name. It was Ms. Applejack's voice. "Blade! What are you doing?". "Um...Going to sleep?". "In there? Come inside, the others are sleeping already". I ran to the house. She allowed me to enter inside. I glanced at her house. Old classic western styles all over the house. I saw a portrait of two ponies. One is male, another is a female. "Who are these ponies?" I asked. Applejack's face turned gloomy. I was shocked that I asked such question. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean--". "Nah, it's alright. To be honest...I didn't know what happened to them. Granny Smith says that they 'disappeared' somehow". I felt the sadness overwhelmed me. I never knew such thing. I'm stupid to ask such question. I gazed in the stars and saw two comets blaze across the sky. "Your room is next to mine," Applejack said "When yer ready, just go to sleep. Gonna go now". She slowly went up the stairs. I went outside and sat on the porch. It is weird how me and Applejack both don;t know what happened to our parents. My father, "magically" disappeared after that day and Applejack's as well. Well, ponies who witnessed that event in my life said that the demons took his soul and perished the body in front of them. Bah...Thinking about this makes me depressed. I should get some sleep, I need to get on that train.
All Ends Well...Or Does It?"Well, they're gone" Rarity said. "Hmmm, I miss Twilight and Spike already" Pinkie said. "How about you Blade? Do you miss them both?" Fluttershy asked. I stared the train accelerate and disappear in the hole of the mountain. I sighed. I do miss mother, but I am seeing her anyways after I am done finding Xithcotal's weakness. And that's the reason why I DON'T miss her. Too many distractions from her and her friends. "So, what now?" Rainbow Dash asked. "Guess its back to the farm" Applejack sighed. The others shuffled away. However, Fluttershy remained. She shook her head several times and talked to herself. "No no...I can't let him! I can't..." she muttered. "Is there something wrong Fluttershy?" I asked. "What? Of course not..." she said smiling. Her smile faded away quickly and her face gloomed. Something IS wrong with her. "You are lying" I sneered. "Ugh...No point hiding it" she admitted. "Um...It is easy to tell that you are sad since you look like you just had a funeral". She asked me to walk with her to her home. She told me she will explain along the way, so I followed. We exited the station and went into the town. "What's the matter Fluttershy?" I asked again. "Its this new critter I have," she explained, "I can't tell if it is a cute, snuggly critter, or a monster". "Oh? Why so?". "Well...At some times, it acted nice, playing with the birds and other critters in my home. But that night...". She stopped talking and walking. Boy, she must had a night. "The birds were gone, only feathers. Only bones in every single critter I have in my home. How? Tell me HOW!'. She started to cry. Hm...That critter seems devious. "Do you know who did it?". "I blame 'it', but I am not sure" she sobbed. I thought for a moment as she cried in the open. "Well, lets go to 'it'. I might know what the creature is" I said. "Really?". "Eh...Maybe. But it's worth the time". "Thank you Blade...You are a kind friend to help me out". What she did reminds me the time I spent with her in the Gala Gardens... [Flashback] "Hey Blade...Who is that pony right there? She looks sooo depressed" one of my friends said. "Why do you mention her? My mother's friend? Does she concern to the party now?". "Just saying mane, you don't always have to go cold-hearted on ponies these days". "I be whatever I want to be" I snapped. I flared my eyes at him. "Dude, you should take a break from this war stuff. Go lighten her up or something. She is wasting her ticket if she is just standing there depressed". I frowned at him and uttered a snort. "Fine, now go with your buddies and drink". My friend rolled his eyes and went away. I realized a bird was on top of my back. "Shoo fiend". It chirped and gallantly went to Ms. Fluttershy. It seemed to talk to it as I went to her. It suddenly flew away as I was about to introduce myself. "Hello Ms. Fluttershy, my name is--". "Blade Sparkle no? Nice to meet you" she interrupted. She shook my hoof unexpectedly. That is odd. How did she know my name? "I knew your name because your mother talks about you a lot" she said as she answered my question. "Do you have psychic powers madam?" I asked. "No no...Everypony says that. But my friends do most of the work". The same bird that landed on my back is on Ms. Fluttershy. It chirped as if was saying hi to me. I was about to take out my spear, but Ms. Fluttershy stopped me. Her green eyes sparkled as I glanced at them. "I can see it in your eyes, war rages in your heart" she said sadly. "Because a war is happening right now" I grunted, "Everypony says I'm a cold-hearted pony". "And they are true," she agreed, "Why is that?". A bunny came and stomped his feet several times. He let out his paw and I shook it. "Such manners Angel. Angel, Blade. Blade, Angel". "Um...Hi?". It looked away and folded its arms. "Why is he acting like that?" I asked. "Oh...He says that you destroyed his relative's home as you were on a quest" she replied. "It was in my way? Hello! I got an army to lead". The bunny hopped away from me. I grit my teeth. "Is it because of revenge no?" she speculated, "I heard that your father died mysterious that day". I looked at the floor and frowned. What she said made me think. Is she right? Or it is that I am bloodthirsty and want to kill more? "Well, I have to go, your mother invited me to her table, nice--". "Wait...Why here? Why did you come here but not to the Gala?". She giggled and looked to the garden. "This garden is paradise to me. Every year, I get to see it. A year is a very long time, so I enjoy it will it lasts. Did I answer your question?". I nodded. "Explore this garden and your will be able to find the true meaning of your hatred. Nice to meet your Blade Sparkle". She left the garden, leaving me alone. I smiled and looked into the gardens...Maybe it is time to find my true hatred. [End] Fluttershy opened her front door slowly. Her house is dark and silent. Dang, I wish I had my spear for protection. "Well...Here--Here he is..." she stuttered. Something creaked in the house. I pushed Fluttershy back a little as the creature reveals itself. I waited and waited and waited...Out comes a small bunny. "Angel?" we both said. Fluttershy's looked surprised. "You know Angel?". "Um...I guess?". "Nice one". I examined Angel. He had blood on his face and he had big eyes. Something must have happened inside. I saw a really long fire iron iron that resembles a spear. I took it and went inside the house. "Open the light Fluttershy" I ordered. Fluttershy searched for the light switch and found it. She flipped it open and out of nowhere...No...It can't be! "Gr....". A mini-sized Xithcotal, growling in front of my eyes! It breathed in flames and turned its head to Fluttershy. "You...I told you not to tell anypony about me!" it boomed. Fluttershy hid behind me. The creature turned to me. "You...Who are you? You are not worthy to fight the most powerful dragon in the world!". "Then I challenge you. If I win, you tell me your weakness. If you win, I die" I challenged. Fluttershy whimpered. "Blade! You can't! We just met and you are willing to sacrifice yourself?". I smiled at Fluttershy. "That is why I'm going to win". The dragon unleashed its fiery breath as soon I was done talking. I tackled Fluttershy out of the way. We landed hard at the side of her house. "Are you alright?" I asked. "Yes..I am" she coughed. I heard the dragon chuckle. "Foolish ponies...I am the strongest dragon you will ever face!" mini Xithcotal said "I fought worse than you, runt" I taunted. It unleashed its breath again. I quickly emitted a spell in my horn. "Barreria!". A barrier formed around me and Fluttershy. It blocked the intense fire. The fire stopped but the dragon wasn't there. "Look out above!" Fluttershy pointed out. I looked up and I saw the dragon soar down at a great speed. "Allsmäktiga vindar och åska! Släpp loss din ilska!" I shouted. I casted the spell from my horn and it hit the dragon. The dragon was stunned in the air. The sky darkened and the storm created horrible winds. It spun the dragon 'round and 'round, then suddenly, the air pierced through the dragon's skin. A lightning bolt above dealt the final blow. It made Xithcotal fall. All that end well. "Hehehe...". I glared at the dragon as it went back up. What? It regenerates! "Foolish boy, that was pretty impressive, but that cannot defeat me". I emitted the spell again. "Allsmäktiga vindar och--". The dragon soared in the air and dived towards me. He was so fast, that he interrupted my spell and clawed me. Thank god for my mithril armor, or I would have been dead already. He sended me off flying back. I regained myself in mid-air and I charged at him. I yelled and I stabbed my fire iron it. I managed to pierce a small opening in the scales. It screamed in agony. "Gotcha!". I tried pulling out the fire iron, but it wouldn't budge. "Haha! Die!" Xithcotal laughed. She swung his tail onto my face and I embraced the cold ground. The intense heat burned my skin as I went up. "How? How is that possible? That was a Master Wizard spell!". It chuckled. "You really want to know? Hehe. I shall answer your question. Only the Elements can defeat me". No wonder! Six ponies, six elements! I am so stupid. "Now, you shall die and I will eat every single one your heart cherishes". He slammed his body into me and I coughed out blood. I am put against a tree and the dragon is going to eat my head off. "Hahaha! You are up next Fluttershy after I am done with him!". He swung his tail and hit Fluttershy, knocking her out cold. He used his sharp claw and somehow pierced my armor. Impossible! How is that possible? "I am going to die...I failed to rescue the future...Everything I fought for...Ruined...". He lifted me up with his claw. The pain...It hurts so much. He opened his jaw wide and I closed my eyes... "DIE!!!!" Xithcotal laughed. Why did I fail? What am I? A coward? "Father...Forgive me..." I muttered.....
