The next morning, you’d finished packing up for your mission to save Zecora’s hometown. After you came home last night and explained the situation to her, Twilight had locked herself in the lab and quickly went to work making you a magically enhanced version of the elixir. After many hours of work she was finally able to complete it. As you two headed for the station, Zecora was waiting for you at the castle doors. The three of you then, made your way to the train station.

“Is it weird that I'm kinda excited for this trip?” you grinned.

“Well, you’re about to spend time with a completely different culture; you should be excited!” Twilight beamed.

Though you were elated to be going to a new land, Zecora was less than enthused about it.

“Given the reason why we make our trip; the learning experience we might skip,” she spoke.

“Yeah but this is the first time I’ve ever left Ponyville without Twilight. I can’t wait to get there and save the day.”

“Your energy is heartening but my own reserves are waning,” she sighed.

You noted your mare’s solemn demeanor and pulled her in close to you.

“Don’t worry dear. We’ll save you kindred. I swear!” you stated with confidence.

To this, she gave a small smile.

“I can fight timberwolves alone...yet I need you to keep me strong,” she noted.

“That’s what I’m here for,” you said with a wink. “So Twi, were you able to finish the potion?”

She answered with a nod.

“Now Nito...normally I wouldn’t give away a full bottle of this stuff, but given the circumstance it sounds like you may need it. Do you remember everything I said about what it does and how much you need for it to work?” she asked.

“Yeah, I got it. I can only take a maximum of two sips within a 15 minute timeframe,” you answered.

“And you know what side effects to watch out for?”

“Yes ma’am. Sheesh Twilight, we’ve been researching it for months now. I’m sure I can use it responsibly.”

Twilight then gave you a serious expression.

“This is serious, Nito. This one wasn’t made by our normal methods.”

“What do you mean, Twilight?”

“Well, for this elixir I infused it with some of my magic to make the effects stronger.”

This certainly piqued the interest of both you and Zecora.

“How much stronger are we talking about, Twilight?” you asked with an arched eyebrow.

“I don’t really know. I didn’t have enough time to properly test it. But if my calculations it should increase your abilities a hundredfold,” she explained. “Of course that is just a theory. I have no idea how alicorn magic will effect humans.”

“I see…”

“So…please use is sparingly, okay Nito…”

You could see the genuine concern on her face. You then give her and confident smile.

“I promise to use it wisely.”

“You can be at peace dear Twilight. I’ll be sure to watch over him in our fight,” Zecora ensured.

“Thanks Zecora. And Nito, promise to tell me everything that happens when you test it out,” requested Twilight.

“You got it!” you said, as you gave her a thumbs up.

After a few moments, you arrived at the station. You were surprise to see your other friends were waiting to see you and Zecora off. As you got closer, you noticed that Voduisant on a bench waiting for the train to come.

“Hey guys!” you grinned.

They all turned to you.

“Howdy, we were wonderin’ when you’d show up,” spoke Applejack.

“This just might be the last you see of me. Thank you all for your hospitality,” said Zecora.

Pinkie then appeared in front of her and shook her head.

“None of that talk, Zecora. You two are gonna win and when you do I’ll be sure to throw to a super big party to celebrate when to get back,” spoke Pinkie with her typical cheery tone.

“Indeed darling. Go show those ruffians whose boss!” chimed in Rarity.

Just as you were about to respond, Fluttershy spoke up.

“You two go and stomp some bugs!” she said with and unusual amount volume in her voice.

Everyone then turned to all look at her with shocked and confused expressions on their faces.

“Well...if you never stand up to bullies then they’ll never stop...”

“I guess that’s true, Fluttershy,” you chuckled.

“Little tip, Nito. Changelings underbellies are a lot softer than their backs,” stated Rainbow.

“How do you know that?” you inquired.

“Experience,” she responded with a smug grin.

“Ah…” you acknowledged.

At that moment, the train pulled into the station.

“If we’re done here, we need to be on our way,” bluntly spoke Voduisant, as he boarded the train.

With a brief nod to the others, Zecora boarded as well without another word.

“My, what a charmer,” huffed Rarity.

“Yeah he sure seems like a lot of fun,” sarcastically spoke Pinkie

“Yeah, a real barrel of laughs,” you said with rolled eyes. “Well I guess we’re off.”

Twilight then hugged you.

“Be careful of there, Nito,” she spoke in a motherly tone.

“I promise I will Twi,” you replied.

Without warning, Pinkie then gave you her trademark lung-crushing hug.

“Come back soon, Nito!” she beamed, as she let you go.

“O...kay...Pinkie…” you strained.

“Be safe, Nito,” smiled Fluttershy.

“I will, plus I'll bring you guys back some souvenirs,” you spoke.

“Ooh, bring me back one of their horns!” requested Rainbow.

You shook your head and gave her disapproving glance.

“Umm...no Rainbow. I’ll bring some native trinkets or something,” you replied.

“Yeah...reel it back Rainbow...” chimed in Applejack.

To that Rainbow merely huffed.

“Nito, darling could you maybe bring me back some there cultural fabrics?” asked Rarity.

“You got it. Rarity.”

She gave you a thankful smile. As the train whistle blew, you knew it was time to go.

“Guess it’s time,” you sighed as you picked up your bags.

As you boarded the train, you looked back to your friends one last time.

“See you guys in a few days,” you said with a waved.

They gave their own farewell and waved goodbye as well. With that the doors closed and train departed. The last image you saw was of them waving to you with Pinkie hopping in place.

For most of the trip, the three of you stood in awkward silence. You could feel the anger and resentment Zecora had for him. You knew that there were many things she wanted to say to this guy, but she chose to remain silent. After a little while you decided to speak up.

“So what’s the plan of attack?” you asked.

“When we arrive will need to make our way through the dense jungle to the village,” explained Voduisant. “If you’ll excuse, I’m gonna go see when we’ll arrive.”

As he left the cabin, you slowly began to understand why your mare hates this stallion. Zecora then tapped your shoulder to get your attention. When you turned to her to see that she had the same frown you had on your face.

“The only things I care for back there, are now full of dread and despair. I’m counting on you to help keep my rage low, so that my fury won’t take control. Even though anger is power, blind rage won’t bring me honor,” she requested.

“Yes, Sifu!” you answered with a confident nod.

“For my tone I hope you can forgive me...this isn’t who I would want you to see,” she sighed.

“I take no offense, Sifu. I understand this is hard for you to do,” you said to comfort her.

She then let out as thankful sigh.

“Thank you…my dearest true…”

“You’re welcome, my lo-”

You were then interrupted by a cough from Voduisant. You turned to the door to see that he once again interrupted another tender moment between the two of you.

“Save your sweet nothings for another time, you two,” he bluntly stated. “We’re almost at our stop.”

Zecora let out deep breath, as if to signal she was struggling to maintain her composure. You then placed a hand on her shoulder to try and quell her pending rage.

“Thank you, Voduisant. We’ll be ready, just let us know when we arrive,” you said with a fake smile.

With a huff, he left again to gather his belongings. When you looked down, you saw Zecora was gritting her teeth.

“Easy Zecora...”

She then let out a deep sigh.

“The only thing that I find comforting; is that him needing our help must really sting,” she voiced.

“Probably, but don’t let him get to you.”

She then lean against you.

“Please keep me grounded, Nito. Otherwise, I just might break his nose,” she warned.

You couldn’t help but chuckle at how serious she was about her threat.

“I will my love.”

After a few minutes, you felt the train comes to a stop. You looked outside to see the surrounding area was full of lush jungle. Voduisant then came for you two.

“We’ve arrived…” he spoke.

We both took a deep breath and then got up from our seat.

“I never imagined that I’d come back here. Not since I had lost my brother most dear,” sighed Zecora.

As you and Zecora grabbed your belongings the three of you proceed off the train. Once the train departed, Voduisant turned to you with a serious demeanor.

“Take heed you two. Our foe has eyes and ears all over the jungle,” he warned.

You both nodded.

“Okay lead the way,” you said.

Your journey lead you deep within the lush the jungle. After walking for what seemed like a few miles, you arrived at border of the village. But when you looked upon it, it appeared to be abandoned and in ruin. When you looked to Zecora, you saw the despair and anger in her eyes.

“Why did you bring to this place? Clearly our arrival is too late,” she seethed.

“Our tribe is still alive. This was just for show, to make us lower our guard,” Voduisant noted.

“Who would do this?” you asked.

“That’d be yours truly… and you’re not too late. You’ve arrived precisely when I wanted you too,” a voice spoke from the shadow of a nearby tree. “I can’t complete my collection if there’s one zebra missing, can I?”

You all then turned to the figure emerge from the shadows. It was a tall, stocky wingless dark grey changeling stallion. He had a matted ruby mane, two protruded fangs, scarlet red eyes with light green irises.

“You!” bellowed Voduisant. “Where are the other zebras?!”

“Oh calm down they’re safe and mostly unharmed,” he darkly chuckled.

He then slowly approached the group. With each step, you could feel the intimidating aura that he gave off. You’d never encounter a changeling before, but if he was the standard then they are truly a race to be reckoned with. As he now stood before you he was easily a head shorter than you.

“They are currently enjoying themselves as guest in our lovely community. If you want I can take you-” he started.

“I don’t believe you! The words you speak are not true!” Zecora spat.

He then let out a sinister chuckle.

“It seems my ruse didn’t quite work… My sincerest apologies. I went about this the wrong way, allow me to introduce myself,” he confessed, with a brief bow. “I am Shade, leader of colony 2687531. They’ve been relocated to our colony and they’re currently feeding my soldiers.”

The fact that he said that with no remorse began to make your blood boil.

“You monster! Well don’t get use to them. Because we’re here to save them,” you boldly declared.

He then turned his attention to you and gave you a menacing grin.

“Monster am I? Better be nice to me...monsters can be very dangerous,” he coldly spoke.

“I’m not scared of you,” you replied.

“Good. I hope we can get along,” he said with a fake smile.

“Why would we ever want to be friends with you? We’ll save the village and beat you too!” Zecora professed.

“Your tribe is perfectly fine. They’ll be allowed to go about their normal lives while in the colony. They just be required to feed my colony,” he explained, but then tapped his chin. “That’s all there is too it...think of it like...no, what’s the word...well you’re...ok fine you’re all nothing more than well-kept cattle. There… I said it.”

With that, you’ve heard enough.

“Enough talk!” you spoke with clenched fist.

You placed your bag on the ground and reached into get the elixir. You then took a swig of the elixir and tied the flask to your belt with a rope. The effect were immediate as you felt newfound power course through you as your body as you were shrouded in a light blue aura.

‘Wow, Twilight wasn’t kidding. I feel way more powerful,’ you thought in amazement.

“Well…isn’t this interesting. Guards!” spoke Shade.

At that moment, seven changeling drones appeared.

“You two handle the grunts. I’ll deal with Shade,” said Voduisant.

“Right!” you replied, as you cracked your knuckles.

“Leave them to us! Fall! VAE VICTIS!” shouted Zecora.

“Bring them to me!” ordered Shade.

As the drones charged, Voduisant leapt over them and headed for Shade. That left you and Zecora to deal with the approaching changelings.

You and Zecora were then surrounded by the group of changeling drones. As they waited for them to make their move the two of you stood back to back and discussed your plan of attack.

“How shall we do this, Sifu?” you asked taking a fighting stance.

“Conserve your strength so you will last. Then wait to strike and beat them fast,” she instructed.

“Right!” you acknowledged.

After a few moment, the three drones lunged at you two. Zecora took a defensive pose as she waited for their assault. When two of the drones were close enough, you delivered and aura palm strike to send them flying. Zecora then waited until just before the changeling reach her. She ducked low to dodge the tackle, then harshly kicking with her forelegs as she rises. The struck opponent is sent back into another one.

“Nice one Zecora,” you said, as you delivered an aura blast to send another one flying.

Zecora gracefully sidesteps another charging changeling, while she struck another in the same move. You’ve notice the Zecora’s fighting style is similar to a form of dance, only striking after building momentum from a dodge.

“It would much indeed seem to be; that they are their own enemy,” she observed.

“Good point,” you replied.

Following her lead, then matched her movements to guide one drone into another.

“How clumsy,” you taunted.

The other drones hesitated briefly and then wildly charge Zecora only to be sent crashing into each other again.

“Though their numbers are great and intimidating, their coordination is thus far is lacking,” noted Zecora.

“That’s an understatement,” you chuckled. “Shall we end this?”

She nodded then took a back step to coral several into a single spot. As you did this, you began to draw on your new power to prepare to launch an attack. Just as you were ready about fire, you saw the she had them right in your range.

“I’m ready Zecora! Move out of the way!” you called out.

Heeding your words, she leapt into the air.

“Take this!” you shouted, as you launched a powerful aura blast at the group.

The attack quickly overtook the drones as they were engulf by the light. As it faded, you saw the grunts were on the ground defeated.

“That was easy...” you scoffed.

“For warriors he asked, this was such a simple task,” Zecora mocked.

“Well, to be fair those grunts volunteered to skip their first good meal in a long time to come with me to give you a proper greeting,” Shade spoke, as he approached the two of you.

He appeared to not have a single scratch on him.

“Well, they weren’t much of a challenge for us. We were able beat them quite easily,” you grinned.

“You just beat two starving Changelings to a pulp; and now you're gloating about your victory?” Shade asked with a tilted head and an arched eyebrow. “You called me a monster, but you’re kind of a jerk.”

“Takes one to know one,” you spat back.

“Hmm… I can’t argue that,” he chuckled, as he tapped his chin to consider your words.

“And now you’re next!” you threatened.

“Well... I wouldn’t be too sure of that, kid,” Shade mocked.

“What do you mean by that?” you questioned.

“Think about it…I uprooted an entire village save for one lone Zebra so he could fetch me the last one. I don’t consider any of you a threat. By the way...have you even once wondered what happened your little friend?”

He was right. You and Zecora looked around to see that Voduisant was gone.

“Where is he? What did you to him?” you glared at Shade.

“He on his way to join his kind at their new home. I disposed of him and sent him off without any real effort,” Shade spoke with an air of confidence.

The merely smug tone he had was starting to piss you off.

“So, are you sure you want to fight me, kid? I only need her to complete my collection,” he began with an arrogant smile. “Look, suffice to say I can trounce a seasoned warrior without any of effort. Just let me take the mare and we can part ways.”

The fact that he felt you were no threat to him only made you want to knock that smug grin off his face. You grab your flask and took another sip. You then felt your power grow stronger.

“Over my dead body!” you barked.

Once again, Shade display a cocky smirk.

“A little liquid courage, eh biped?” he jeered.

Before you could reply, he lunged at you to deliver a powerful hoof strike. Before it could connect, you vanished from sight.

“...Wait...What?!” Shade uttered.

While he was caught off guard, Zecora delivered a kick to his side.

“A magic biped and a zebra that fights dirty...so be it!” he said, before he lunged at Zecora.

Before he could attack her, he appeared in front of her and deliver a roundhouse kick to his jaw that sent him crashing into a nearby house.

“Zecora it’s you he’s after. Go hide and let me handle him,” you pleaded.

“The fight is also mine, I won’t lose to his kind!” she replied.

“...Okay...first of all that came off as racist,” bluntly stated Shade.

You both looked to see Shade emerge from the house. He then glared at the two of you with a bemused scowl.

“And second...I’m starting to get mad!” he coldly spoke.

“So what-”

Before you could finish your statement, he charged you with a newfound speed. It caught you both off guard, as your both sent flying into separate trees. As you got to your feet, it was time to counterattack.

“That’s it! Time to get serious!” you declared.

Without missing a beat, you charges him again at a blinding speed. As you did this you then focused your aura into your right which caused to glow a fiery red hue. You then vanish again. Annoyed, Shade turned his attention to Zecora. Once again, before he could reach her you appear again to deliver a powered uppercut. To your surprise, Shade caught your fist with his hoof.

“Yeah...that won’t work on me again, kid!” taunted Shade.

“Oh, you think so?” you grinned.

“Of course I do-”

Shade is then hit in the snout by the knee of something and is knocked to the ground. When he looked up he saw two of you standing in front of him. The other you then faded away.

“How’d you like my magical double?” you grinned.

“Okay...I’ll admit it. That was actually kind of cool...” he confessed as he got to his hooves.

Once vertical, he let out feral roar and lunged at you. Unable to dodge in time, Shade proceed lift you with his magic. He then delivered a forehoof to your stomach which sent smashing into a nearby hut. As you tried to get up you brace your ribs with you left arm.

“Okay...that one hurt…” you groaned.

Before you had time to recover, Shade appeared behind you smashed you through the front door. As you skidded to a stop, Shade began to slowly walk toward you. As you struggled to get to your feet, he couldn’t help but laugh at your display.

“And how did that one feel, biped?” Shade mocked.

When you got vertical, you saw him prepare for another charge. Before he could get a full head of steam, he is sent flying to the ground by a swift kick from Zecora. As he wiped the blood from his mouth, he glared at the two of you.

"Ok that’s it! No more of this two on one garbage! Now we get serious!” he roared.

Before he could get up, you took another swig of potion (now that you are outside of the 15 minute limitation). As you felt you wounds heal, you were struck with an idea for an attack. It was from one of your favorite series back on earth and now that you have enhanced powers you decide to give it a try. You then positioned you hand so the base of your palms are touching. You then move them to you side and began to drawn upon your power.

“Ka…me…ha…me…” you started.

At that moment a light blue aura ball began to form in your hands.

“What the buck are you doing?” asked a confused Shade.

“You’ll find out soon enough,” you answered with a cocky grin.

“Is that so?” he smirked before charging you.

You waited till he was a few feet away from you.

“HA!” you shouted as you fired the attack.

Shade is then enveloped by the attack. He’s sent crashing through several trees and into the jungle. With his body marred, teleported back to the village. After a quick healing spell, Shade turned his gaze to you. When he did you could see the pure hatred burning in his eyes for you.

“...I am going...to wear...your face!” Shade darkly spoke.

He then calmly marched toward you. But this time you knew something was up. His aura was a lot more intimidating, and with each step his hoof were indenting in the ground.

“He’s both stubborn and durable. That makes quite the dangerous combo,” Zecora noticed.

“Yeah, but it’s nothing we can’t handle,” you reassured her.

“Before I kill you, I’m gonna feed off your Zebra friend. And when I’m done, that’s when I’ll put you out of your misery. Imagine it, the last image you’ll see is your dear friend being drained while you can do nothing to stop it. Seriously, take a moment to digest my promise in its complete form,” Shade spoke with a deep and darkened tone.

“Big talk bug! Let’s see if you can back it up!” you goaded. “As long as I’m breathing you’ll never lay a hoof on her!”

You then fired a barrage of aura shots at him. To your amazement, Shade dodged your assault with minimal effort.

‘WHAT?! How can he-’ you thought.

You thoughts were interrupted with an eerie laugh that came from Shade.

“...Looks like I found your weak spot,” he stated with a mocking smile.

“Huh? What are you-”

He then disappeared in a flash. Before you could react, he grabbed Zecora and pinned her to a tree.

“Zecora! You bastar-”

Just as you were about to charge, her wrapped a forehoof around her throat.

“Care to take a shot at me now biped? Or are you now willing to talk this out?” queried Shade.

You then gritted your teeth.

“Why you dirty, rotten-”

He then tightened his grip on her neck.

“No...please finish that sentence. Get me nice and upset. Make me break her neck so we can continue our fight,” he threatened.

“Let her go! And let’s settle this like men! Or are you the pathetic bug I think you are?”

“You think I am just a bug. I know that I hold all the cards.”

“Then prove your worth insect.”

As he continued to tighten his grip, Zecora began to shift her body.

“...you seriously dare...think me a helpless mare?” she spoke.

With a swift motion, she delivered a swift strike to the underbelly of Shade. The sudden impact caused him to drop her. She then tossed him over her shoulder. You moved out of the way as he flew past you and slammed him into the ground. As he got to his hooves, you saw that his horn began to glow with a light green aura.

“I don't know what you're planning, but I'm not letting happen!” you said, as you started to charge him.

Just as you were about to attack him you noticed a pin sized dot of red light on your left shoulder.

‘What the-’

Shade then fired a thin ray of energy at the dot which felt your were struck by a very thick needle. The pain from the attack forced you to fall to a knee. When you looked to see if the attack did any damage, you shocked to find that there was no wound.

“Err...what was that?” you asked holding your shoulder.

“Just my ‘Phantom Shot’. It attack the inner body without leaving a mark. Cool, huh?” he explained.

“Not bad,” you admitted.

Shade then lifted his forehoof to strike you. You quickly drew on your power your right fist is engulfed in a fiery red aura. You then dodge the strike and hit him square in the chest to once again send him into a house. This time when he emerged from the rubble, he didn’t appear to be damaged. He was able to stand up without much difficulty.

“Hmm...what happened to your strength, biped? That house hurt more than your attack did,” he mocked, as he dusted himself off.

‘Crap...he strength is increasing faster then I excepted…’ you noted.

You then look at him with a false bravado.

“I guess that means I shouldn't hold back anymore,” you declared.

You then heard a dark chuckle come for the unshaken changeling. He then gave you a psychotic smile.

“Is that so? Well then...I guess I should do the same,” he stated.

With that, he let out a roar that seem to make his aura grow more powerful.

‘This isn’t good’ you gulped.

His horn then illuminated as he lifted the rubble from the house around him.

“Now then…let’s play!” Shade laughs.

He then hurled the rubble at you two at a fast speed. Just as you were prepare to dodge, you feel two piercing shots in both of your knees. When you fell to the ground, you looked to see that Shade had fire another round of his ‘Phantom Shot’ attack at you. But this time he was able to do it without you seeing it coming. With no way to dodge, you braced yourself for the approaching onslaught.

“Nito!” Zecora shouted.

She then ran up to you and pulled you down to the ground. The debris then grazed your bodies and slammed into the wall a few feet behind you.

“Thanks Zecora,” you spoke.

“It may be too soon to thank me. I fear he’s now a greater enemy,” she warned.

As you began to heal your wounds, Shade began to march toward you two. You now see he has a large piece of glass he acquired from the debris floating in front of him held by his aura.

“As promised...I’ll be taking that face,” he threatened, his words laced with malice.

“Zecora...I can’t take another sip of the elixir for another 2 minutes,” you said, a little worried. “We need a plan.”

She then looked at you with an steeled resolve.

“All I can think of is this pact...when the time comes don’t think, just act,” she began. “Some of the last words laid by my late brother Blade.”

With a deep breath she steadied herself.

“If this is to be the end of us...we must still send him to Tartarus!” she proclaimed.

This got a chuckle from the approaching changeling.

“Bold words, zebra. I can still walk and you two can barely even stand. Enjoy your last few moments together before I drain you dry in front of you biped friend here,” taunted the menacing changeling.

You then saw her step in front of you.

“Zecora wait. What’re you gonna do?” you queried.

“Same thing that you're going to do…Die!” stated Shade.

“The fight may not be it my favor. But my resolve will not waver!” she boldly stated, as she charged him.

“Zecora wait!” you called out.

“That’s a good girl…”

Just as she was about the deliver a hoof strike to his jaw, Shade easily sidestepped the assault, and stomped her into the ground which knocked the wind out of her. He then used his aura to pick her up by the throat. As she struggled to get free, Shade laughed with amusement.

“There…there….try not to wear yourself out. I wouldn’t be to enjoy myself if you went and died,” he mockingly sneered.

He then tightened his around her throat. After a few moments, her eyes began to slowly close her eyes as her limbs went limp.

“There you go...now just lie still and I’ll be right back,” he said, as she tossed her to the ground.

He then turned his attention to you and pointed to the glass shard at you.

“Now your turn!”

You then struggled to get your feet.

“Zecora...Zecora...” you said.

Once on your feet, you then gave him a fierce glare.

“YOU’RE DEAD!” you yelled.

You then grabbed a nearby fallen tree limb and charged him. He then waited for you to get closer so he made deliver a precise strike. With you power running low, you fired an aura blast at him. Just as he was prepared to dodge, he felt Zecora grab his hoof.

“What? You’re still conscious?” he asked, as turned to her in disbelief.

But when he looked back to you, he was hit with the blast.

“Now…take this!” you shouted, as you swung at his side.

The impact sent him flying through a tree.

“Looks like a homerun,” you grinned. “Zecora...are you...okay?”

She gave you a weak nod, as she was struggling to maintain consciousness. As you were about to heal her, you're then tackled to the ground by Shade. You both roll around until Shade was standing above you.

“Load bearing walls...hurt more than trees, biped...” he coldly spoke, as he raised the shard of glass. “But trust me…this is gonna hurt even worse.”

As he was about the slice you with shard, you quick rolled out of the way. Once free, you used the last bit of power you had to blast the shard. The resulting impact caused it to shatter and a piece flew in Shade’s face and scratched his left eyelid. As he groaned in pain you then ran to Zecora. This was brought to a halt when you felt a series piercing shots in your legs and shoulders. As you fell to the ground, you heard the crazed laughter of Shade crept ever closer to you. When you tried to get you’re stomped into the ground.

“How...how do you even function? You clearly know you’re outmatched, but yet you continue to fight as if you’ll somehow pull off some kind of miracle. Well I have a news flash for ya biped. There are no miracles happening today. Y’know, I thought about toying with you a bit longer, but now that you’ve scarred my face…I think I’ll just end now!”

He then lifted you with his aura. You’re then greeted with a strong hoof to the gut, which sent you careening into a tree. As you slid down to the tree, your body is racking in pain. As he began to walk toward you, you felt the helplessness of the situation.

‘I...I can’t beat him...’ you confessed.

You winced slightly as you try and get up.

‘Even I take two sips...I won’t be enough...’

“Come on, biped. Drink some more of that strange potion of yours,” mocked Shade.

You looked to him in shock.

“What you think I didn’t noticed you get stronger after you drink it? Though I must say that I didn’t expect it to make you as strong as it did. But with a slight adjustment I was able to keep up. Now, come on and take some more so I can watch you ultimately fail,” he ridiculed.

As you heard his words, you then looked at the magic flask and then to Zecora. You knew that two sips were barely keeping to alive, you doubt three would make a difference.

“Tick tock, biped.”

There was one option left to try, but the risk were too great. The last time you did it your body completely shut down and you almost died. You then heard Twilight’s warning ringing in his ear, but they were immediately deafened when you saw your mare on the ground. You knew it was the only way to save the one you love.

‘Twilight…Zecora...please forgive me. But this is the only thing left I can do...’

You then ripped the flask from you belt, and in one swift motion down the rest of the elixir.

“Oh ho! The biped finally showing some guts!” he scoffed.

“It’s time...I...I don’t know what will happened. But just know that you brought this on yourself!” you warned, as you threw away the flask.

“Really now? So just what is going to-”

His words faded as you felt your whole body pulsate.

‘What? What is this feeling?’ you wondered.

At that moment, you let a loud cry as you were then shrouded by a powerful aura. As you felt the power surge throughout your body, you felt your muscles started to tightened. Your body then let out powerful shockwave as it finished its transformation.

“What has the biped done?” Shade asked in awe.

When the shroud of aura fades, Shade was stunned at your new form. Your eyes were now a dark violet, his skin a dark tan, and his hair was now midnight blue.

“…Really? That’s your big reveal...your trump card,” Shade began trying to hold back his laughter. “I guess that’s the best you can do.”

You didn’t respond as you were in awe of your newly acquired power.

‘Unbelievable…I…I had no idea I could become this strong…’

Seeing that you ignored his statement, Shade let out an annoyed huff.

“Ignoring me huh? Well then, let’s go ahead and end this fight shall we!”

He charged you at a blinding pace. As he was about to strike, you blocked his hoof with one hand without even looking at him.

“What?!” he shouted.

He tried another strike and you blocked it again. He then stepped back delivered a series of rapid hoof strikes. You were easily able to block each one with a single hand, much to the disbelief of Shade.

‘This is impossible! There’s no way this measly biped can keep up with my speed!’

You clutched both of his forehooves with your blocking hand. He struggled to get his hooves freed. Then, with your free hand, you delivered a palm strike that sent him careening into a wall. The impact was so hard that Shade was embedded into the wall.

‘Wh-What…the hell…just happened?’ questioned Shade. ‘That biped…didn’t have nearly…this kinda power…before…’

Shade use his power to break out of the wall. When he looked to you, he glared when his saw the confident smirk on your face.

“Give it up, Shade. There’s no way you can beat me now,” you spoke calmly.

“Is that so?!” he growled. “You think that since you took your little drink that you can beat me?!”

“I don’t think Shade, I know you can’t. Just look at yourself,” you pointed out.

Shade then looked down to see his body was trembling. It was the first time in a while that he felt a twinge of fear.

“Do get ahead of yourself, biped!”

Shade’s horn then began to glow as he grounded his hooves into the ground. As the energy surged within his horn he then took aim.

“SAY GOODBYE BIPED!” he roared, as he fired a powerful aura blast at you.

You then folded your arms and waited for attack. Within moments, you remained motionless as you then were engulfed by the blast. When the energy faded, Shade feel to his knees with a heavy pant. While on the ground he looked in your direction to see the area filled with smoke. He assumed that the attack had finished you off and began to rejoice.

“So much for the great biped wonder. I should’ve warned you that nopony has every survived that attack, but too late to dwell on the past,” he laughed.

But as the smoke began to settle a faint silhouette could be seen.

“No…that’s not possible…” Shade gasped.

Much to his astonishment, you emerged from the smoke without a single scratch on you. With a stoic gaze, you made your way over to Shade.

“Was that really your best shot, Shade? If so, this fight won’t last long,” you stated.

You then saw him grit his teeth.

“Don’t you act so superior!” he barked, as he charged you.

You then let out a sigh and shook your head. Just as he was about the strike, you sidestep the attack and grip his hoof. As he tried to break free you began to slowly bend his hoof backward. With each movement backward, you add a bit more force.

“Before I end this, tell me where the colony you took the zebras to is?” you demanded.

“Go find...them...yourself…” he spat.

“Wrong answer!”

You then applied a bit more force which made him grit his teeth.

“Okay...that really hurts...stop...seriously...mercy...” whined Shade.

“Where are they?!” you barked, accented with bending back the hoof to the near snapping point.

“Okay! They’re all unconscious in cocoons in a cavern under the town! We didn’t have enough time to move all of them! I told you so please let go!” he pleaded.

“I see...”

You then let go of his hoof. Upon the release of his hoof, Shade recoiled in pain.

“This battle is over bug!” you stated, as you turned to walk to Zecora. “Leave…and don’t ever come back!”

Shade said nothing as he cradled his injured hoof. When you reached her, you could see she was on the edge of consciousness. You then knelt down and began to heal her.

“Nito...” she whispered.

“Don't speak my love. Conserve your strength,” you spoke with a loving smile.

As you were in the process of healing her, you could see some life start to return in her eyes.

“Good, it shouldn’t be long no-”

You then felt a piercing shot hit your heart. This cause you to immediately clasp your chest. When you looked over your shoulder, you see that Shade had fired one of his Phantom Shot’s at you.

“Never turn your back on your opponent, biped,” Shade spoke.

“Errr...you should’ve left when you had the chance!”

You then stood up and walked to him. He then fired another shot, which you easily dodge. But you saw that impish smirk on his face, you knew that the attack wasn't aimed at you. You then saw the shot hit Zecora square in the chest, which made her cry in pain.

“Zecora! YOU BASTARD!” you shouted.

“It your own fault for letting your guard down, biped,” taunted Shade.

You then drew upon your power to form two giant aura spheres.

“This is where it end, Shade!”

You then combined the spheres into one. As you took aim you fired a mighty beam at him. With no way to dodge it in time, Shade formed a barrier around himself and braced for impact. When the attack collided with the barrier, Shade was immediately sent flying backward. After a few seconds, the barrier shattered and Shade that completely engulfed him. When the attack faded, you saw he was still on his hooves for a moment and then fell to the ground. You then quickly ran to your fallen love.

“Zecora…my love...please say something!” you pleaded.

She weakly opened her eyes. Not wasting another moment, you quickly began healing her again. This time you double you efforts to heal her. Just as you finished healing her you saw her look over your shoulder.

“Dearest Nito...look behind you...” she cautioned.

Just as she spoke, you dodge a piercing shot. You then turned to see the Shade was prepping for one more shot.

“You never know when to give it up do you!” you scowled.

You then turned to face him once more.

“Zecora…gets somewhere safe…” you requested, never taking your eyes off Shade.

She was about to decline, but when she could feel the strength of your aura. It was then she knew you had the fight in hand. She then quickly left to find shelter.

“Time to end this bug!”

“Bring…it…on…biped!” Shade spoke.

You then began to focus you power into your hand as Shade takes aim. Your hand then began to glow with a light blue aura. Once you felt like you had enough power stored, you then charged at a breakneck speed. Before he could launch his attack, you delivered a powerful punch to his jaw. You quickly followed up with an uppercut and a backflip kick that sent him into the air. Before he could too far, you appear above Shade and blast him back toward the ground. Just before he crashed into the ground, you struck him with an aura fist. When you drove him into the ground, you released the compressed energy which caused a massive explosion that could be seen for miles.

After the dust settled, all that could be seen was the crater where the impact occurred. As you were walking out of the crater, you drug Shade out with you. He was unconscious, but he was still breathing.

“Don’t ever come here again…or next time you won’t leave alive!” you chided.

You then threw him off into the distance were he disappeared like a twinkling star. With the battle now over, you let a deep sigh.

“It’s finally over.”

You then saw Zecora run out to you. As he walk to Zecora, you felt you body start give out.

‘Crap...the potion is wearing off…’

Midway to Zecora you collapse and fell face first to the ground.

“Nito!” she shouted.

She quickly ran to you. When she flipped you on your back, her eyes widened in horror as she saw you knocking on death’s door. She then lifted you onto her back and carried you into a nearby hut. Once inside, she laid you on your back and began to examine you. As she did this, you’re body reverted back to normal.

“Zecora... I'm...so...rry. I didn’t...know...any...other...way…” you weakly spoke.

“Be still my heart... this day...we shall not part,” she spoke, as desperately tried to save you.

She began to chant something in her native tongue. You then reached up to her and grazed her cheek with your hand.

“Zecora...I...love...you...my beautiful...shaman…” you whispered.

She in turn gently brushed her hoof along you cheek.

“I hear your dear words and my heart is yours,” she softly spoke.

You weakly smiled.

“That...makes...me...hap...py...”

You felt your remaining strength leave you as your hand fell to the ground and his eyes started to get heavy. As your world began to fade to black, you saw working feverishly to perform some sort of technique she knew to try and save you. To this you couldn’t help but smile.

“Ze…cor…a…”

Once again, your world is consumed by darkness.

Author's Note

VAE VICTIS - Latin for “woe to the vanquished”, or “woe to the conquered”