Fire in the Sky

by EPP

Rating: teen
Tags: Princess Celestia, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Dark, Alternate Universe, Human, Main 6, Romance, Original Character, Cutie Mark Crusaders, Other, Adventure, Sex, Tragedy
Length: 8345

Thomas and his friends were having a great time with their marefriends in Equestria, but what will happend if they will have to travel through the whole world in order to save their loved ones?

This story is a Sequel to New level of Friendship, I recommend reading it first.

It's been a month since Grand Galloping Gala, Thomas and rest of the guys were getting used to their new bodies and surroundings. Everything was going smoothly, nothing can go wrong now right?

Yeah right.

A/N Cover Art image found randomly on google, I do not know who made it.

Big thanks to my editor and proofreader(From Chapter 4 up): Triko88

Published 2014-05-14 00:30:01 UTC
Last updated 2014-07-02 22:24:59 UTC

Chapter 1

Author's Note

I honestly wanted to get some practice before writing the Sequel, but I just couldn't help it.

I wanted to write it.

So I hope I won't disappoint you guys, expect new chapters soon.

Best Wishes

Riter12pl4

Chapter 1

Chapter 1
Loyalty and betrayal.

It was beautiful sunny day in Ponyville, Rainbow and Thomas were walking towards Rarity’s place.

“Guhh Do we really have to do this?”

Thomas sighed.

“Come on Rainbow why are you so angry about getting new dress.”

“I have one already! Ain’t that enough?”

“Don’t ask me, maybe if this was just some ordinary occasion.”

Dash sighed.

“Come on Dashie, it will be fun.” Thomas said doubting his own words.

“Yeah sure.”

“How about that, we will go there, get ourselves new clothes and we will race our way home.”

Dash’s ears perked up. It took Thomas only 3 days of training with Rainbow to learn how to fly and do some basic tricks, he still was a rookie but he was getting faster and more agile with each passing day.

“Well if you put it like that.” Rainbow smirked and Thomas sighed with relief.

To be honest he didn’t want to go to boutique as well, but he fully understood that on occasions like this there must be a lot of preparation.

In two days Princess Celestia was having a meeting with new King of the Gryphon Empire, this meeting was extremely important. About 600 years ago Equestria and Gryphon Empire were at the war, after many years of fighting Princess Celestia lead her army in the final battle which resulted in Equestria’s victory.

King of the Gryphon Empire stood before the Princess, waiting for her judgment, unexpectedly the only thing she requested was for him to swear his, and his Empire loyalty to her. It hurt his pride more than any other punishment, gryphons are proud race, having to humbly serve someone like Princess Celestia was a huge scar on their honor.

But he didn’t have any choice.

And so the years passed, gryphons hatred towards ponies was getting stronger and stronger.

Whenever new King was chosen he had to swear loyalty to the Princess, exactly 10 days after his coronation.

And new King was crowned 8 days ago.

“But why do we have to be here?” Dash frowned.

“Because you are elements of harmony, how many times do you need to hear it?”

“This sucks.”

Thomas sighed, although he and rest of the guys couldn’t come with girls Rarity still insisted to make them some proper clothes.

After few more minutes of walking they finally arrived at Carousel Boutique, Thomas knocked on the doors and after few moments they opened, standing before them was high colt who they both knew very well.

“Sup Terry.”

“I’m doing good thanks Thomas, come on in.” He said with a smile and let them both inside.

“Dash and Thomas! I’m so glad you are here, I already managed to make drawings of other dresses and tuxedos, you two are the only one left!”

Dash sighed earning few quiet chuckles from Thomas.

“Ok Rarity let’s get this over with.” Rainbow said and they both walked up to the fashionista.

After taking all measures, Rarity started to draw something in her notebook while occasionally looking at those two, meanwhile Terry walked up to Thomas.

“Hey Thomas.”

“What is it?”

“Have you made any progress in, well you know.”

Thomas sighed and shook his head, Terry frowned.

“Hey don’t worry, Celestia already told us that even though we were originally humans we will get our cutie marks sooner or later.”

“Yeah, but it’s been a month since Grand Galloping Gala and none of us found out his special talent yet.”

Thomas frowned at his statement. They didn’t care at first but the more time they spend as blank flanks, the more they found it as a pain in the ass.

They tried some things they were good at back on Earth, like Thomas trying to perform karate, but with his new body he couldn’t pull out many techniques, Alex tried singing but it didn’t work as well.

“So, we are last ones here?” Thomas asked.

Terry simply nodded.

“Rarity! How longs is it going take for Celestia sake?!” Rainbow shouted in annoyance.

“Calm down Rainbow, and try not to move too much.”

Rainbow sighed in frustration and both Thomas and Terry chuckled a bit.

“But sir are you sure this is the right thing to do?”

“Captain Quickshot, are you questioning decision of your new King?”

“N-No, I would never do that.”

Two gryphons walked down the hall, smaller one’s fur was brown while his eagle had was dark, he was wearing a military uniform with few shining badges, bigger one was wearing much more luxurious, yet still practical uniform, he had dark fur and white feathers on his head and neck, he was much more muscular than smaller one as well.

After few moments of walking in silence they stopped before the huge doors with two gryphon guards, they quickly saluted and opened doors for their new King.

They walked inside and doors there close behind them, in the middle of the room was big round table with 10 seats but only one of them was taken.

“Ah, King Vergard, so nice to see you, I take it that you have decided to take up my offer?” Dark bipedal creature stood up, his whole body was black and surrounded by dark smoke, he was wearing some pieces of armor which were hardly visible as they were the same color of his skin, his long also black hair was flowing even though there was no breeze in the room, he had two horns extending from his head, not to mention he was huge, not only tall but also massive, he was at least 3 meters tall. The only thing that wasn’t dark were his crimson red eyes.

“Yes I did.” King smiled while Quickshot gulped being quite intimidated.

“Good, then I’ll have everything prepared in two days.” Dark figure said and vanished.

“I hope you are right my King.” Quickshot said humbly.

Vergard grumbled and started to walk towards doors, Quickshot following him quickly.

“Finally, after 600 years of humiliation it’s time for our revenge, we will take what was ours and even more Captain, and I will be the one to lead our people into that glory.”

He stopped for a second puffing his chest out with pride.

“After this war I shall be known as Vergard, the Emperor of Gryphon Empire!”

Quickshot gulped. Ever since the first ruler of the Empire, Helltalon The Great no one dared to call himself an Emperor.

Newly crowned King and his Captain walked through the hall towards the war room, devilish smile not leaving Vergard’s face for even a second.

“Ha not even close!” Rainbow said to Thomas who had just landed behind her, Rarity finished her task and they raced like he promised, unsurprisingly Dash won.

“I’ll beat you one day you will see.”

“Yeah like with that Air Hockey.”

“I can’t believe you still remember that.”

Rainbow shrugged and walked inside her cloud house, Thomas following her quickly.

“So Thomas, what is going on with Terry?”

Thomas looked at her with quizzical expression.

“What do you mean?”

“Oh please, since last week I constantly see you two talking about something clearly not wanting anyone else to hear.” She said with mischievous grin.

Thomas gulped.

“So umm, about that.”

He sighed in defeat.

“All right, but you have to Pinkie promise you won’t tell anyone else.”

“Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye!” Rainbow said while doing all the motions with her hoofs.

Thomas closed his eyes and after few moments he opened them and inhaled deeply.

“Ok so look, Terry had something in his mind going for a while and he needed help with that.”

“And what did he need help with?”

After few moments on hesitation Thomas said in flat tone.

“He is going to propose to Rarity after the meeting with gryphon King.”

Rainbow’s eyes went wide and soon huge smile appeared on her muzzle.

“That is so awesome!”

Thomas nodded and smiled as well.

“So after the meeting?”

“Eeyup.” Thomas said trying his best to sound like Big Mac.

“Great, I won’t tell anyone don’t worry.”

“I know you won’t you pinkie promised, and nopony breaks that promise.”

Rainbow nodded in agreement.

“So what are we going to do for now?” Rainbow asked.

“Well since we having nothing better to do than perhaps some flying lessons?”

Dash smiled wildly and nodded, she didn’t like learning but she loved giving practical lessons about flying, they quickly left their house once again, being sure that nothing can go wrong now.

Chapter 2

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter 3

Chapter 3
Beginning of The End

Everyone stood mouths agape and eyes wide looking at the white coated stallion in front of them.

After few moments Twilight beamed and jumped on her brother embracing him in a tight hug.

“I’m so so happy for you two!” Twilight yelled out in excitement.

Shining returned the hug, after few moments Twilight let him go and everyone took turn to congratulate him.

“Thank you everypony, I’m extremely happy.” Shining smiled and then frowned slightly

“And nervous at the same time.”

“What are you nervous about B.B.B.F.F?”

“I-I am sure that Cadence will make a great mother, it’s just that, I’m scared that I’m not ready to be a father.” He said as he lowered his head and shut his eyes.

After few moments of silence he felt somepony’s hoof touching his shoulder gently, he opened his eyes and looked up to see Princess Celestia smiling at him warmly.

“Shining Armor, I’m more than sure you will make a great parent.”

“But…”

“No buts my dear, and besides, you are not alone, you have Cadance and your friends, we will all help you in the time of need.” Shining looked around and saw everypony smiling at him reassuringly

Shining smiled wildly, small tears forming in his eyes.

“T-Thank you everypony, I’m truly grateful.”

Celestia nodded and turned towards girls.

“You six should go to your chambers and dress up, King Vergard shall soon be there.”

Girls all nodded and left the room, Celestia looked at Shining.

“It’s good to have friends like these right?”

Shining nodded and wiped his tears.

“Yeah.”

“Are you still crying?”

“It’s liquid pride.”

“This is so great!” Twilight screamed in joy while she levitated her dress towards herself.

“Yes, our Twilight will soon be an auntie.” Rarity cheered.

“Auntie Twilight! This is priceless.” Rainbow said while laughing, making Twilight blush a bit, but didn’t stop her from jumping in excitement.

“Oh my, Applejack where did you get that necklace from?” Rarity gasped and pointed at the shining Emerald which hang on the farmers neck.

“This is a present from Michael.” Applejack said proudly.

“Oh my, this is simply gorgeous.”

“Yeah, even I have to admit that it looks cool.” Rainbow added while fighting with her new dress.

“Thank ya’ll.”

“Yes Applejack, that is definitely a beautiful piece of jewelry, so it’s from human world I presume?” They all turned around and saw Princess Celestia, standing in doors smiling wildly, she wore her royal dress which she also used to wear at the Grand Galloping Gala.

“Eeyup.” Applejack said with a nod.

All girls started giggling when suddenly a royal guard ran up to Celestia.

“Princess! I’m here to deliver a message!” Guard tried to catch his breath while doing his best to salute.

“What is it?”

“King V-Vergard has arrived.”

Princess expression went from happy to frown and she nodded.

“Very well then, I shall greet him.” She said and started leaving.

“Wait Princess, let us come with you!” Twilight shouted while finally putting her dress on completely.

“Are you sure about that Twilight? Gryphons are known for their, hard characters.” She said emphasizing last words.

All girls nodded simultaneously, Celestia nodded and motioned them to follow her.

“So this is Canterlot? It’s really impressive architecture.” Quickshot commented when their airship landed on the secluded platform.

“Captain Quickshot! We successfully landed.” One of the soldier stated and saluted.

“Good job soldier, dismissed!” Quickshot saluted and the gryphon soldier left him alone.

After few minutes doors to main cabin opened and King Vergard walked outside, he was wearing royal red cape and a helmet-like crown on his head.

He walked past Quickshot who simply started to follow him.

“My King, are you really sure about this? I mean if we fail than…”

“We won’t Captain, we can’t fail, this humiliation have gone for long enough, today we will change the future.”

Vergard put his right claw on Quickshot shoulder.

“I hope you are with me Quickshot?”

Quickshot sighed.

“I promised Gabriel that I will stand by your side, and I will never disappoint him.”

Vergard smiled and resumed his walking.

They soon left the airship and were greeted by two columns of soldiers holding their spears high in respect.

“Well, where is her highness? I hope she won’t be late?” He asked one of the soldiers with devilish smile.

The colt he talked to was a pegasus, his coat was white cause of the goyal guard armor he was wearing and his mane was blond, also the effect of royal guards armor magic. His left eye was blue while his right eye was magenta.

“I-I don’t k-know your Majesty.” He answered visibly intimidated which didn’t go unnoticed by Vergard and pegasus fellow guards.

“Say, what’s your name?” He asked while greeting his teeth, showing the soldier his powerful fangs.

“D-D-Dash L-Li-Light.” He answered shaking from fear.

“Well well, mr. Dash Light, why are you shaking so much. Is it cold?” Every soldier wanted to help but their hooves were tied, both by their duty and fear.

“T-That’s…”

“King Vergard, with all respects we should go and greet the Princess.” Quickshot said trying to soften the situation.

“We should go and greet her? Isn’t she the host here? This is completely…”

“King Vergard.” Everyone turned towards the entrance and saw Princess Celestia, with all elements of harmony by her side.

“We came to greet you in our country, and if I may ask, what are you doing to one of my soldiers?” She asked with a frown, rest of the girls also had quite unpleasant expressions.

“Oh nothing my Princess, just some small talk.” He said and walked towards her, Dash Light mouthed “Thanks” to Quickshot who only nodded in response and followed his King.

“I’m glad to see you Princess Celestia.” Vergard said and both him and Quickshot bowed.

“So am I, King Vergard.” Celestia added and bowed her head.

Vergard than looked at the girls.

“Who are those 6 lovely mares that stand by your side Princess?” He said with a wicked grin.

“Those are Elements of Harmony.” She said and 6 girls bowed slightly.

After few moments of silence Vergard started to chuckle quietly.

“What’s so funny King Vergard?” Princess asked with annoyed expression.

“W-Well I heard that elements of harmony are Equestria’s strongest and most valuable artifacts, is that right?” Princess nodded.

“When why are they protected by six small mares?”

All girls frowned, Rainbow even growled at him.

“Stay assured that elements are in good hooves, they were chosen by the elements and no one has a right to disagree with the elements decision, not even me.”

“Very well then, let’s not waste any more time shall we?” He grinned and walked past the Princess, Quickshot following him silently.

“What a jerk!” Rarity said.

“Rarity calm yourself.”

“But Twilight...”

“No buts, he might be arrogant but he’s still a King, let’s just let it go.”

Celestia nodded.

“Well said Twilight, I am proud of you, let’s go and get this over with.”

All girls nodded and left the landing platform and ventured into the castle.

All guards sighed with relief and lowered their spears, especially one of them was relieved.

“Hey Light, are you all right?” One of the guards with black coat walked up to the still shivering pegasus.

“Y-Yes I’m fine, just a bit scared.”

“Yeah “a bit”.” Guard chuckled and left pegasus alone.

Dash Light sighed and looked towards the entrance to the castle.

“She hasn’t changed at all.”

“What was that?” One of the guards turned towards Light when he heard him talking.

“N-Nothing I was just talking to myself.” He quickly said and ran away.

Ceremony was about to start, throne room was filled with many important guests sitting on the benches prepared especially for the occasion, some nobles from all around the country were present, there were also owners of huge companies. Aside from the nobles and rich ponies, there were also representatives of Equestrian military, one of them being Spitfire. When Twilight and her friends walked inside Rarity immediately noticed a friendly face.

“Fancy Pants! How nice to see you.”

White coated stallion turned around with quizzical expression which quickly changed into the happy one.

“Rarity! It’s been so long, how are you doing?”

“Oh I’m doing great, it seems there’s no time now, but would you like to have a cup of coffee with me after the ceremony? There’s somepony special that I want to introduce you to.”

“You mean the lucky colt you wrote about in letters?” Fancy Pants said with a grin.

Rarity blushed slightly and nodded.

“Very well then, we can meet after the ceremony, if you don’t mind I would like to take Fleur with me.”

“Of course.”

“Ekmh Rarity, it’s about to start we should go to our place.” Twilight said quietly and pointed with her hoof at the right side of the room where was a secluded area with six seats.

“Oh, of course, see you later.” She added quietly and walked with rest of the girls.

After few moments Princess Celestia walked inside and sat on her throne, Princess Luna soon followed suit.

After few moments of killing silence, King Vergard walked into the Throne room, he stopped for a few moments and looked around.

There were only 2 things he saw in those ponies eyes.

Fear and disgust.

‘Soon, you will all learn what true terror is.’

He resumed his walking and after few minutes he stopped in front of Princesses.

“King Vergard, we are here today to accept your, and yours Empire loyalty.” Vergard felt his wrath boil inside him when he heard those words.

Soon two royal guards came in, third one after them.

They stopped before the King and stepped aside letting their third companion get through, after that he handled small piece of paper he was holding to the King, along with a quill which was already soaked in ink.

Everyone stared at the King waiting for him to sign it.

Vergard smiled wickedly.

“You want me, to swear my loyalty to you Princess? You think that our Empire will humbly serve you forever? You are WRONG!” He shouted out last words making some ponies jump in theirs seats.

“What in the name of sun are you talking about Vergard!” Celestia shouted.

“I’m sayin that your time have come Princess, yours and this pathetic country.”

He stood on his back legs showing of his powerful wings and chest.

“The time for our revenge has come!” He shouted last words and suddenly one of the walls exploded, making everyone scream out in fear and cover their ears.

Celestia was stunned by the noise and impact but not for long.

Her horn glowed and she removed the smoke that came from the explosion, the sight she saw terrified her.

Her royal guards already started a fight with something she could only describe as shadows.

Small bipedal creatures with red eyes and no mouths.

She looked to her side and saw Luna standing up, she noticed that in the chaos Vergard vanished.

“Princess! Those creatures are attacking every part of the castle, what are we to do?!” One of the guards shouted.

“Give the leadership to Captain Shining Armor, he should be in the main hall probably already taking care of things, call all guards that are off-duty and most importantly escort the civilians to the safety.” She said tilting her head to the screaming crowd.

Soldier saluted and dashed away.

“Sister, what shall we do?” Luna asked.

“Luna you help with escorting, I will help our soldiers get rid of these things.”

“What about Vergard?”

“Saving our subjects is most important Luna.” Princess of the night nodded and flew towards the crowd.

Celestia was boiling with anger, but there was no time for that, she teleported to the place where most of these creatures were in order to help her soldiers.

“So did everything go well Irae?” Vergard asked while taking off his pieces of clothing, he was inside his cabine on the airship which was already taking flight.

“Yes my King, everything went perfect, we got what we wanted.” Huge dark creature said while pointing to the corner of the room.

Vergard grinned wickedly.

“So it begun.”

After less than an hour guards were dealing with some last remains of dark creatures. Many ponies, both guards and civilians were injured, luckily none of the latter ones died.

Soldiers on the other hoof had some casualties.

Celestia walked back towards the throne room with anger written all over her muzzle, Shining Armor was on her right side, while on her left side was a gray coated stallion with short black mane.

“What are your orders Princess?” Gray stallion asked while walking by her side.

“If he wants war then he will get it, I want you to send messages to all Princesses.”

Gray coated stallion went pale and gulped.

“A-All of them? But that means.”

“Yes, for the first time in 600 years I’m putting Equestria in full state of war.” Shining Armor was now also nervous, he never saw Celestia so furious.

“B-But Princess that means…”

“I told you what to do! Write letters to all Princesses, Princess Firefly of the Ignis Kingdom, Princess Stella of Iron Kingdom, Princess Cadence of Crystal Empire, Princess Iridia of Tempestas Kingdom, and rest of the Princesses as well!” She shouted out her last words in Royal Canterlot voice.

Gray stallion nodded.

“Also write a letter to Discord, tell him about the situation, sadly for him he will have to get back from his vacation sooner than he hoped.”

Gray stallion nodded once again and ran off.

“Aren’t you a bit harsh on him?”

She sighed few times hoping that will calm her down at least a little.

“I’m sorry Shining, after 600 years of peace he shows up and declares war while also hurting and even killing my subjects, I can’t even describe how furious I am.” She said with small tears of anger and sadness forming in her eyes, she quickly wiped them.

Before they realized they were already at the throne room doors, Princess Luna was waiting for them.

They walked inside and saw medical ponies running from one injured pony to another.

“We are going to wait for all Princesses to arrive, this hasn’t happened in 600 years, for all of them to assemble here at the same time.”

Luna’s eyes went wide and she gulped.

“Thou are calling all Princesses here? But that means you…”

“Yes I put Equestria in full state of war.”

“We hope you made right decision sister.” Luna said with a frown.

Celestia nodded and then something caught her eye, something flashed in the corner of her sight.

She walked up to the source and lifted it with her magic, her eyes went wide in shock.

“Luna, did you escort every civilian to the safe place?”

“Yes sister.”

“Twilight and her friends as well?”

Luna put on a quizzical expression.

“We thought that they were with you sister.”

Celestia looked once again at the heart shaped emerald necklace that previously adorned Applejack’s neck.

“Oh no, for the love of sun NO!” Celestia shouted and put her front legs over her head.

“What is it Princess?” Shining quickly asked worried about her.

“They got them.”

“What?” Both Princess Luna and Shining asked simultaneously.

“I can’t believe it, so that was their reason for this chaos?”

“What is it sister?”

Celestia turned towards them, fear and anger written all over her muzzle.

“They kidnapped them.”

“Thanks for walking me home Ray.” Girl said and placed a small kiss on boys cheek making him blush.

“No problem, so see you tomorrow?”

She giggled and nodded, boy than bowed and walked away.

She sighed and opened doors to her house, after taking of her jacket she greeted her parents and ran to her room.

She wanted to turn on her computer and surf the net but she then saw something with a corner of her eyes.

“How was your day my dear?” Old man with long white beard walked out of the corner of her room with a warm smile on her face.

“Thanks, it was nice.”

“You’ve been much happier ever since you met that boy, what was his name again?”

“Ray, and I guess you’re right, I’m happy with him. And it’s all thanks to Thomas and Rainbow.”

“I’m truly glad for you happiness Sarah.”

They looked at each other for few moments before girl broke the silence.

“So why came here?”

“Can’t I just visit my friends for no reason?”

“Well I guess.”

Old man chuckled and sat on her bed.

“But you are right, today I’m here for a reason, something very important actually.”

She frowned and leaned in closer.

“It started Sarah, sooner than I expected, I have to go back to Equestria, they will need me there.”

Sarah’s eyes went wide

“B-But what about.”

“I know, but there’s no other choice, if I stay here they are sure to fail in Equestria, give me your phone Sarah.”

She nodded and handed her mobile phone to him.

His hand glowed with silver aura and after few seconds it stopped.

“Here, I inserted a special number which will let you communicate with me through the phone, I called it “Friend on the other side”. Report me about their movements and also call me if you will need help.”

Sarah nodded her eyes slightly watering.

“What’s wrong child?”

“W-Well, you’ve been here for quite some time now, and I knew you will have to go sooner or later but it still hurts, you are like second father to me old man.”

He chuckled.

“And you still can’t remember my name?”

“I can but it’s easier to call you old man.”

“I guess it is.” They both chuckled for a few moments before silence took over again, man stood up and waved his hands in a goodbye motion.

“We will meet again Sarah, I’m certain, I just hope it will be a peaceful reunion.” He said and vanished in silver light.

Sarah released few more tears, she looked at her phone and nodded to herself.

“I won’t disappoint you old man.”

Chapter 4

Chapter 4

Starting a journey

"Come on Albert play with us!" Anna said, excitedly bouncing around an
annoyed Albert. Spike was standing nearby, watching them in anticipation.

"I already told you that I'm busy, Ann.."

"Oh please, you can do your magic studies later, pleeeeaase." She said and
stopped bouncing, instead looking at him with the best puppy eyes that she
could muster.

Albert tried his best, but he simply couldn't resist. With a heavy sigh of
defeat, he closed his book and turned towards Anna and Spike, standing on
all fours.

"All right , fine, what do you want to play?"

"Yay!" Anna smiled widely and jumped into the air. Albert couldn't help but
smile as well.

"Soo, maybe we could play hide and seek?" Spike asked while he walked over
to his friends.

"Sure why not. Go and hide, I'll seek." Albert stated and almost
immediately started counting, which surprised Anna.

"Hey! Not fair!"

"Sixteen, fifteen..."

"Come on Ann!" Spike shouted and ran away to hide somewhere in the library,
the filly panicked for a moment before she quickly followed suit.

"Four, three, two, one, ZERO!" Albert shouted and opened his eyes
immediately looking around. He saw no sign of the two and started to look
for his sister and the baby dragon.

Albert walked into Twilight's bedroom and grinned widely as he saw a small
tail sticking out from underneath her bed.

He walked around the room. trying his best to seem as clueless as possible.
He quickly pretended to leave the room by opening and closing the door that
he entered from. Albert quietly trotted over to the bed before he heard a
sigh of relief.

Anna left her cover and smiled.

"Hah, I always knew I was smarter than my brother."

"OH, are you now?"

"Yeah, I just..." Anna's eyes went wide and she turned around to see her
brother smiling at her wickedly.

"B-But! But how, you just..."

"Got you."

Anna expression changed to a frown and she stomped her front hoof with a
pout, making Albert chuckle.

"Come on Ann, we still have our little dragon friend to find." Albert left
Twilight's room with the assumption that finding Spike wouldn't be so
hard.

30 minutes later

"Come on! We searched this library through and through... TWO times! Where
is he?!" Albert shouted in frustration while Anna continuously laughed.

"Well well well, it seems somepony here is in trouble." Anna said while
scratching at her muzzle with a hoof. Albert was angry at her, and even
more so at himself. He hated the fact that the small girl could actually
make him frustrated with just her talking.

Albert started another round of searching ,not at all willing to give up.
He went down to the basement and checked nearly everything. Then, as he was
about to leave, he heard a loud burp come from a nearby laundry basket.

He quickly galloped towards it, Anna followed him close behind and watched
as her brother removed dirty piles of clothing, which was surprisingly big
considering that they only wore clothes on special occasions, but he
shrugged it off.

As Albert removed the last article of clothing, a small purple dragon with
a frown on his face and a letter in his claw came into view.

"Got you."

"You would never have found me if Princess Celestia didn't send this
letter."

"Who knows, maybe. So, what's with the letter?"

"I don't know, but since Twilight isn't here I suppose that it's for you."
He said and gave the scroll to Albert, who picked it up with magic and
nodded his thanks. Spike lifted himself out of the basked and walked up to
Anna with a frown on his face.

Albert slowly unrolled the scroll and read it's contents.

Dear Albert,
It is of utmost importance that you, Thomas, Michael, Terry, Brandy and
Alex travel to Canterlot castle, I have already dispatched a carriage, it
should soon arrive in Ponyville.

"Why would Princess Celestia need us in the castle now?" Albert thought out
loud, earning a surprised expression from his young companions.

"We need to find rest of the guys, a carriage to Canterlot will arrive
soon."

"A carriage to Canterlot? What for?" Spike asked.

"I have no idea Spike, but the Princess wrote that it is, and I quote, "of
utmost importance.".”

"Well all right, Ann and I will go get Thomas and Alex."

"Great ,then I'll look for the rest."

Spike and Anna nodded as they all left to find their friends.

Meanwhile in Canterlot

"Sister, are thou sure it is a good decision to call them here?"

"Yes, they have a right to know." Celestia said and turned towards one of
her guards."Is the search group ready yet?"

"Y-Yes Princess, they have already dispatched."

"Good. Now, dear Dash Light, go to the landing platform and wait for the
carriage to arrive. When our guests arrive, bring them to the throne
room."

"Yes, Princess."

Dash Light took off, on his way to perform the duty he was assigned.
Celestia turned towards the other guard.

"Are all of the letters sent?"

"Yes, your Majesty. Letters have been sent to all of the princesses."

"Very well, you can go now and rest a bit." The guard nodded and trotted
away. Luna looked at Celestia with a frown.

"Tia are thou sure that it is a good decision?"

"I have no other choice, Luna. Their empire was already strong enough, what
bothers me were these... shadow creatures. Putting Equestria in a state of
war is now our only choice."

With a loud sigh, Luna nodded her assent.

"You have any idea what Princess Celestia wants with us?"

"Sorry Tom, but she only wrote that she wanted to see us, nothing more."

Three royal carriages were flying through the sky with two ponies on each.
The flight went smoothly if you don't count the occasional bouncing from
the always-excitable Brandy.

Soon they arrived and landed at the designated platform where they were
greeted by one of the guards.

"Welcome, my name is Dash Light and I have been assigned to escort you to
the throne room."

Thomas nodded and the group followed Light into the castle, they had been
here before, after the Princess had found them in the Badlands and during
the gala, but they were still quite impressed by the castle's exquisite
architecture.

That was, until they arrived in the throne room.

Their jaws broke open and their eyes went wide when they saw the state that
the room was in.

"What the hell happened here!?Did someone detonate a bomb?"

"Kind of."

They turned towards Dash Light, who was slightly startled by this sudden
attention.

"What happened here?" Thomas asked.

"Well, I..."

"What happened here, dear Thomas, is for me to explain, and take full
responsibility."

They turned once more and saw Princess Celestia, accompanied by Princess
Luna, slowly walking towards them.

"Princess? What is the meaning of this?" Thomas asked, nervousness creeping
into his voice.

Celestia sighed and explained everything that had happened, not leaving out
any detail . As she continued to talk, the boys expressions were changing
into terrified frowns, eyes open wide and jaw hung low.

"T-That's, impossible ! Princess, please tell me this is some kind of sick
joke!" Thomas yelled, not being able to believe that the mare he loves just
got kidnapped, and he wasn't even there to protect her.

"I'm sorry Thomas, the search team was already dispatched. Sadly, that's
all I can do. I have to stay here and take care of everything else, I also
can't send any of our elite soldiers, we will need everypony we can muster
in the coming war."

That's right, war. As she spoke this word, the boys realized that their
marefriends being kidnapped wasn't the only problem at the moment.
Equestria, that place they first knew as an imaginary wonderland full of
magical ponies, then a place where they decided to stay for the rest of
their lives, was now at war.

Celestia turned towards her guard who came to report about the letter from
one of the princesses. The boys who were still shocked and terrified just
stood there, not sure what to do, then Thomas thought about something.

"Princess?" As he spoke, Celestia turned away from her guard and faced
Thomas once again.

"What is it Thomas?"

"We will find them."

Everyone turned their attention towards Thomas. It took only a few moments
for Celestia to realize what he meant by his statement.

"Thomas, I simply can't let that happen. It would be too dangerous.
Besides, I already sent out a search team."

"Princess, you said that you can't send anyone else because you will need
them for the war. We aren't soldiers Princess, we won't be of any use here.
As for the search team, they are trying to rescue the elements of harmony.
We are going to rescue our loved ones."

As soon as he finished his statement, all of the guys were standing by his
side, their expressions full of confidence.

"Still I can't accept this, what if something happened to you? From what we
know their ship is flying towards the Gryphon Empire. You would have to
travel through the whole of Equestria, and there are many dangerous places
on the way there."

Thomas wanted to respond somehow but he was stopped by a hoof on his
shoulder.

"Then I'll accompany them."

Thomas couldn't help but grin when he saw that the hoof on his shouder
belonged to nopony else but Shining Armor.

"I cannot accept that as well, you are needed here Shining, you are-"

"Princess, with all due respect I, am no longer captain of the Royal Guard,
you have more than enough skilled commanders. The Princesses will also be
there to accompany you. Besides, if they kidnapped the users of the
Elements of Harmony, that means they fear them. We will most likely need
them here as soon as possible, that and..."

He paused for a few moments, and then said.

"...I have to save my sister."

Princess looked at the group and sighed after a few moments.

"Shining Armor, I am putting you in charge of the Elements of Harmony's
rescue. Your team will be equipped with everything you need."

Thomas and rest of the boys started to cheer while Shining Armor and Luna
just smiled, their moment of success was soon interrupted by one of the
guards, who was keeping his eyes firmly fixed on the ground.

"Umm, Princess, Prince Shining Armor, if I could ask for something..."

"Yes what is it Light?" Celestia asked.

"I-I would like to accompany them as well."

Princess put on a puzzled expression.

"Why is that?"

"W-Well, I won't lie, I am a coward. I always was, I joined the guard
because I was hoping that it would help me get braver and stronger, but it
was pointless it seems. I am still a low coward, that's why I won't be much
of use on the war, however...

He lifted his head and continued.

"...I will help them rescue the girls, I promise I will do anything to save
them."

"And what is the source of your motivation, young guard?" It was Luna who
asked this time.

"Well actually it is..."

Light started to take off his armor which in turn stopped the magic
illusion changing his white coat back to its original orange color.

"...it's the same reason as Prince Shining Armor actually."

He took off his helmet making his blonde mane and tail turn to its original
color.

Or more precisely, seven colors.

"I have to save my sister."

Chapter 5

Chapter 5
Big adventure – Small adventurers

Dash Light stood there, slightly startled by all the attention he was
suddenly given.

Everyone in the room were staring at him with wide eyes, the most shocked
one being Thomas.

Awkward silence took over the room for a few long moments before Brandy,
wearing a small, black bowler hat, broke it by inspecting Light with a
magnifier, which he took from not-even-Celestia knows where.

After few moments of very carefully examining every detail, Brandy stopped
and walked over to the group, much to Light's relief.

Brandy cleared his throat and said, with stoic expression and a flat
serious tone.

“This is Rainbow Dash's brother.”

Thomas simply nodded and added.

“Thank you, Watson.”

Brandy smiled and bounced happily away.

“W-What was that?” Light asked, still confused.

“Oh that was just Brandy, being ... Well, Brandy. You will get used to it.”
Thomas said accompanied by approving nods of his companions and the Princesses.

“Riiight.” Light stated and turned towards Princess Celestia once again.

The royal alicorn was looking directly at him with care and a bit of
confusion in her eyes.

“S-So Princess, may I accompany them?” the Rainbow maned colt said with his hopes high.

“I am not so sure about this Light, traveling in a larger group may be riskier once you pass the Gryphon Empire's borders.”

Light’s expression was slowly changing into a disappointed frown.

“R-Right. I guess I will get back to my post.”

He started to pick up the elements of his armor from the floor, but was soon stopped by a hoof on his shoulder. He turned around to see Albert smiling brightly at him.

“Princess, may I say something?”

“Go on, Albert.”

The violet unicorn cleared his throat before speaking. “As you already know, I too have a sister. Sometimes we argue, sometimes we have fun together, sometimes she’s cute and funny, but most of the time she’s annoying... But you know what?”

After brief pause Albert continued.

“If she was kidnapped by, whatever force may it be, I would travel through the whole world to find her. That's why I'm sure, with motivation of this level, Dash Light would be a great addition to the journey.” Albert stated, patting Light few times on his shoulder. The pegasus was stunned, he hadn't expected any of them to take his side like this.

Princess Celestia tried to say something but was cut short by Shining Armor.

“Princess, if I also may say something, Albert is right, just like he said that the bond that family members share is really powerful, think about what you would want to do if Princess Luna was taken by the Gryphons?”

Celestia stood shocked for a few moments before looking over to her sister,
Luna in turn smiled kindly and nodded in approval towards Light.

After a few moments of silence, Celestia sighed and simply nodded with a
smile on her muzzle.

Dash Light stood there frozen before he was brutally woken up by an excited Brandy tightly hugging him.

“Another friend for the journey!” He stated happily and soon all of the guys,
including Shining Armor were around congratulating Light.

Light, at first, was startled by the sudden affection from his new friends, but
soon his fear and shyness were changed into happiness, while his frown
turned into large smile.

After they parted Celestia walked up to the group.

“You will start your journey from Ponyville, carriages are ready to take you
back. Dash Light and Shining Armor will join you tomorrow when I have
everything ready.”

The colts nodded and bowed in respect before taking their leave towards the carriages.

Shining turned towards Celestia.

“I have to go and write a letter to Cadance, so if you'll excuse me.”

“Wait a moment, Shining.” Celestia half-shouted which made him stop in
his tracks and turn around.

“Yes princess?”

“You seem pretty excited about this whole journey.”

Shining thought for a few moments before answering.

“Of course I am, this is a journey to save my sister, but that is not the only reason.”

Celestia nodded for him to continue.

“Ever since I joined the royal guards all those years ago, I have barely traveled anywhere. Seeing Equestria through and through is a really alluring idea.”

Celestia smiled. She was glad that, even despite all these years of being
in the military, he could get excited like that.

“There is one more thing, actually.” Shining said grinning, causing Celestia
to once again gain his attention.

“What is it?”

“You see, I still didn’t get any good chance to talk with my sister's colt-friend. You know about these things.” As he spoke Celestia could
swear she felt a murderous intent coming from her former Captain, she couldn’t help butfeel sorry for Albert. This journey was going to be a long one, especially for the poor violet unicorn.

“AH-CHOO.” Albert sneezed loudly as they were entering the carriage with Terry.

“Bless you.”

“Thanks, Terry.” Albert said while climbing into the carriage.

Soon the other colts entered their respective carriages, with Brandy once again excitedly bouncing onto them, much to the guard's discomfort.

“Are we there yet?” Vergard asked quite irritated with the length of
their journey back home.

“We are almost there, my King.” One of the Gryphon guards answered.

“Good. Quickshot, my friend, are the elements awake yet?”

“No, my King.” Small Gryphon answered humbly.

“Too bad, I was hoping that maybe they would try to escape before we get them in The Hellbounds. That would certainly be entertaining. Especially the part where we catch them and punish them.” Vergard said, licking his beak.

Quickshot gulped and kept his gaze at the floor. ‘What happened to you Vergard? When did you become this sadistic monster.’

“Actually now that I think about it, we kidnapped them so Equestria can’t use the elements of harmony...
Why don't we kill them? That would makethings much easier.” The Gryphon King said with a devilish smile.

“We cannot.”

Everyone turned towards the dark creature whom had just entered into the room.

“Ahh Irae, nice to see you. Tell me, why exactly can’t we kill them?”
Vergard said, quite irritated that someone was telling him what he can’t do.

“Elements and their users share a powerful bound which can be broken only in some extreme situations, one of them is death.”

“Well isn’t that great? We can just kill them, their bond will disappear and the elements will be useless.”

“You don’t understand, King. If the bond is shattered , the elements would find new users sooner or later. If we will be unlucky they might find them soon enough for Equestria to use them in the war against my dark legions, and if that happens…” Irae said nothing more and only stared at Vergard with his crimson red eyes.

The Gryphon King didn’t say anything, resisting the urge to throw some insults
at him. Irae was right and he knew it, but he hated the way that the dark creature
talked to him, showing complete disrespect in his tone.

“King we have arrived at The Hellbounds.” The gryphon guard who had just entered the
room stated.

“Excellent! Get the Elements to the most secured cell and make sure there is always at least one pair of warriors guarding it.”

The gryphon nodded and walked outside, Quickshot couldn’t help but feel sorry
for girls, Hellbounds was the biggest jail in Gryphon Empire,
there was only one successful escape.

It was a gryphon pirate known as 'The Golden Lion'. He had escaped by getting rid of the
chains on his legs. Which he did by cutting off both of his legs with blades
stolen from guards. Some say that he now uses those very same blades as
prosthetic legs.

And now the girls who were the users of the 'Elements of Harmony' were
going to be taken there, probably forever.

“Ohhh Why can’t we go with you!” Scootaloo shouted, her fellow crusaders,
Spike and Anna nodded, standing behind her.

“Because it’s way too dangerous for small fillies and a baby dragon.” Thomas
stated simply whilst the rest of the guys were searching through the library for
some books about Equestria, or anything that they might find useful.

“Ohh come on.” Scootaloo said, irritated.

“No means no.” Thomas added and motioned with his hoof towards the door. “Now go out there and have some fun like normal kids.”

Scootaloo growled slightly before getting pushed away by Apple Bloom
and Sweetie Belle, Spike and Anna following them out of the library.

“I swear, kids these days.”

“Oh hey, look, we have a grave adult here.” Albert said with a smirk.

“Shut up.”

“Gahh! I am so angry at them! They treat us like we are some kids!”

“Well we are, technically.” Sweetie Belle added making Scootaloo frown
at her.

“But we are way cooler and braver then other fillies and colts!”

“Oh really. Are you now?”

The Group of five turned their heads towards the source of the sound,
which they soon found out was Rumble and Pipsqueak, who was wearing his usual
red pirate bandana, coming their way.

“Hey guys, what’s up?" Rumble asked, as they were getting close.
Scootaloo couldn’t help but feel her cheeks getting warmer.

“Our sisters were kidnapped and they won’t let us help them.” Sweetie Belle
stated simply, surprising everyone.

“What?” Rumble and Pipsqueak asked simultaneously.

“Maybe let me explain.” Spike said and proceeded to introduce the colts
into their situation, with more or less all details.

“Well, that sucks.” Rumble said rubbing back of his head.

“Aye, those lads need a savin.” Pipsqueak added.

Group suddenly felt into silence for a few long moments before one of the colts,
namely Pipsqueak, smiled with excitement.

“Then we should just set sail on an adventure and save them!”

“What are ya talkin about Pips?” Apple Bloom asked

“I am sayin that we should go and save them! Doesn’t matter what those guys
say, they are your sisters and they need saving.”

As far as it sounded crazy at first, soon everyone started to like the
idea, even Sweetie Belle.

“You're right, so how’s that crusaders?” Scootaloo turned towards her two
friends, they stared at each other for few moments before smiling and
simultaneously yelling:

“Cutie mark crusaders, sister rescuers! YAY!”

“Well if you are going I'm going too.” Spike said, soon Anna was by his
side, he looked at her questioningly to which she smiled and nodded.

“It seems Anna too.” Small dragon added.

“Hey, wait a moment, you think you can just go on the adventure of a
lifetime without us?” Rumble stated while motioning between himself and
Pipsqueak with his hoof.

“But your siblings weren't taken away.” Scootaloo stated simply.

“But we can’t just say no to such adventure, what kind of pirate would?”
Pips said and both colts smiled.

Soon the whole group was cheering, they were soon going to go on an adventure of
their lifes! It would surely be full of fun and happy moments.

But they would soon realize that small kids could have many problems in a big world.