Chapters Equestria Wars Episode XII: Return of the Scourge
Once upon a time in a magical land of Equestria....
EQUESTRIA WARS
Episode XII
It has been a few months since the defeat of Twivine and Omega Brony. After the reunion of Danny and Charming Thunder, peace has finally been restored with the new bearers of Harmony and Insanity.
With the defeat of the Horde, Princess Celestia calls Charming Thunder and the other members for an alliance meeting to discuss the future for them and the alliance.
Charming Thunder sets out with Twilight and his two future wives Sunset Shimmer and Applejack to their new alliance fortress to partake in the meeting unaware that an ancient evil is about to return and cause destruction to all of Equestria....
Equestria Wars Episode XII: Return of the Scourge
Chapter 1: The Alliance Meeting
The Sentinel-class landing craft prepared for landing at a landing pad near the newly constructed fortress for the alliance where the meeting was going to take place. Charming Thunder, Twilight Sparkle, Sunset Shimmer, and Applejack exited the shuttle and walked towards the main building itself.
Charming Thunder and the others entered the meeting room to meet up with other members. Charming Thunder and Twilight were leaders of Team Harmony with Sunset Shimmer and Applejack as their bodyguards. Danny and Rainbow were leaders of the Lunar Clan, who were leaders of the Vampony Empire with Soundwave and Shadow as their bodyguards. Celestia and Luna were leaders of the Equestrian Empire with two random royal guards. Cadence and Shining were leaders of the Crystal Empire with Flash Sentry and a random crystal royal guard. Brutalight and Drowned Brutalight were representatives of Team Insanity and the Phantom Consortium with Rainbine and Pinkis as their bodyguards. Chrysalis and Meta were leaders of the Changeling Empire with two random changeling guards. Everyone in the room took their seats and begun their congress meeting. "Now; this meeting may begin," Celestia started. "What is our first order of business?"
"Respectfully, I think we should finally make contact with the Borg," Danny suggested.
"I thought talk was beyond reason to them," Charming Thunder replied.
"True, but ever since Adjutant left the Phantom Consortium, the Borg could strike at any moment. That is why I proposed that we placed a blockade at their border to prevent them from attacking us while we are down."
"The Borg have technology that allows them to adapt to us," Meta pointed out to everyone. "What makes you think they won’t use it against us?"
"With my experience and mastery of the Borg, I can have technology developed to counter the Borg."
"You would share this technology with us?" Twilight asked.
"If it means to stop the Borg, then yes."
"Our Griffin technicians can make the Anti-Borg technology much faster," Brutalight added.
"Now we are in agreement with that action, what shall we do with the Horde Leaders?" Luna asked.
"They can’t be trusted and they may raise a rebellion if left alive," Rainbow said.
"You propose we execute them?" Charming Thunder asked.
"Yes."
"While I do agree with your course of action, Rainbow, but I can’t let it happen," Celestia interrupted. "he main reason why were at war with the Horde in the first place was because they see us as a major threat. If we kill them, it will be like they were a symbol to rebel against us."
"I agree; we can’t let it happen again," Meta replied.
"So what do we do with the leaders?" Twilight asked.
"How about Tartarus? They have shown signs that Tartarus would be a suitable crime for them."
"I agree," Charming Thunder said. "They have shown us countless times when they have proven themselves worthy of a life sentence in Tartarus."
"That makes three of us then," Luna added.
"Alright, then the leaders were be casted into Tartarus," Chrysalis said.
"Now, we have enter the-" Danny was interrupted when his eyes glowed purple for a minute then back to normal.
"What is wrong, brother?" Charming Thunder asked with concern. "Another vision?"
"I have sensed the balance has shifted. Two ancient enemies of Equestria have returned. And I have seen them both in my vision. Aunt Celestia; what is your last name?"
"It’s Solar… why?" Celestia replied.
"Discord!!!" At that moment, Discord appeared in the middle of the room. He was sitting on a chair in front of a table with Fluttershy sitting in another. They were having tea. Discord looked at Danny.
"What’s up Danny?" Discord asked.
"Tell me; do you know of any other draconequus besides yourself?"
"Well… there is my brother, Havoc. But he is stone in the dark depths of Tartarus." Discord took a sip of his tea then looked at him with curiosity. "Why do you ask?"
"Because… I’m afraid that the Alliance is going back into war."
"With who?" Luna asked.
"Havoc..." Celestia, Luna, and Discord gasped as Danny explained. "He has been freed from his stone prison. While he can’t escape Tartarus…"
"His powers to create undead forces from graveyards is going to be a problem," Discord added.
"The Vampony Empire has fought with us before to stop Havoc, we can do it again!" Luna said.
"But then there is the second threat," Danny said.
"Who?" Celestia asked.
"Charming, our cousin Arthas Solar has returned." Celestia gasped in complete shock at what Danny just said.
"My son! But he was sealed within the Frozen Throne! Back in…"
"Yes, back in the Frozen Wastelands… near the Crystal Empire." There were a few gasps in the room. "I propose this battle plan for now. We know that Arthas, aka: The Lich King, is heading to Equestria to take it over. But to get to Equestria, he needs to get through the Crystal Empire. Cadence, Shining, you two should prepare your forces for any legions of undead soldiers."
"We will require reinforcements," Cadence said.
"I’ll send a small fraction of the Equestrian Grand Army to defend the Crystal Empire," Charming Thunder said.
"What of Havoc?" Celestia asked. "Only Vamponies have the status to break into Tartarus, even with our modern technology."
"That is where we come in," Danny said. "Me and Rainbow will fund and contact all of our Vampony lands for those willing to defend Equestria. We will even take volunteers from Equestria and other lands to fight against Havoc. And as leader of the Vamponies, I respectfully request that Princess Twilight Sparkle join our ranks."
"Me!?" Twilight shouted with shock. "But I have little combat experience!"
"No!" Charming Thunder shouted with denial of the request. "I refuse to let my wife fight against Havoc by herself with you Vamponies!"
"When Twivine turned Twilight into a Vampony Lord, she became a member of my empire," Danny explained. "As a Vampony and a member of my kingdom, she has to fight with her kind. Besides, we can train Twilight to fight. I know a pony will teach her a lot."
"But-"
"No Charming, I MUST do this," Twilight interrupted. "If I don’t, then why am I a princess but just a damsel in distress in need of rescuing? If I do this, I can prove that I’m not as weak as I’m lead to believe."
"But Twilight-"
Twilight hushed her husband and replied, "It’s alright. Besides, you are getting married with Sunset and Applejack to official declare that you have three mates."
"Don’t worry," Danny reassured his brother. "I’ll make sure that she returns to you in one piece." Charming Thunder looked at Twilight then they kissed. He then nodded and turned to Danny.
"Alright. But you better be on your word Danny, or you will regret it."
Equestria Wars Episode XII: Return of the Scourge
Chapter 2: Setting Up the Defense
The next day, Charming Thunder oversees the set up of the defense of the Crystal Empire with Cadence in the castle. AT-STs walked around to stand guard for any upcoming attacks while the troops set up the trench defense around the kingdom. A female pony with a blue coloring tail wearing silver armor with a cape over her left shoulder holding a gold painted blaster in her hoof entered the room. "Your report, Captain Lunar?" Charming Thunder asked as he turned to face her.
"Reinforcements have arrived, but I believe that it is not enough to defeat the undead," Lunar reported.
"It'll have to do for now, captain. Help out the rest of the troops with the defense."
"Right away, your highness." Captain Lunar left the room while Charming Thunder continued to watch over the kingdom.
"I just want you to know that since you are getting married to Sunset and Applejack, the wedding will have to be postponed due to the news Danny brought up," Cadence said. "I trust that you don't mind."
"Not at all," Charming Thunder said. "And I trust that you will be safe due to the news you and Shining Armor told me about being a mother." Cadence placed a hoof on his brother's cheek and giggled.
"You worry too much, brother."
"I just don't want anything to happen to you or the baby."
"Trust me. I'll be fine. You just worry about the war." Charming Thunder nodded and left the room to go train his apprentice.
Charming Thunder arrived in a room where Moondancer was seated and meditating. She opened her eyes and turned to see Charming Thunder enter the room. "Hello, Charming," she greeted. "I heard that the meeting went well until Danny had a vision."
"Indeed," Charming Thunder replied. "He did have a vision about two new threats. Arthas Solar, son of Princess Celestia, and Havoc, Discord’s twin brother have returned. We had to split up and take on one of them. Danny is leading a vampony assault team to Tartarus with Cerberus's help to take on Havoc. While I handle the defense of the Crystal Empire in order to hold off against Arthar also known as the Lich King."
"And what of Twilight since she is a vampony as well? I sense that you are worried about her."
"Your insights serve you well, my apprentice. Danny took her with him to train her. For now we must train."
"I thought you never asked." Moondancer and Charming Thunder activated their lightsabers then got into their battle stance.
Day 15
Turbo Laser towers have been set up at the trenches as troopers who are excellent sharpshooters were set up in their towers. A squadron of TIE Hunters flew over the castle as they begun their patrol. Shining Armor helped the troops prepare for any upcoming attack while the rest set up trench guns. Charming Thunder received various reports from the frontier that it has been attacked several different times with each wave getting bigger. Sunset and Applejack entered Charming Thunder's room and nudged him. "And how is my king doing?" Sunset asked in a lovely tone.
"Been getting various reports from the frontier and me and Chrysalis decided to send reinforcements to the frontier. Other than that, everything is okay."
"That's good to hear," Applejack said. "It's a shame that our wedding had to be put on hold. The Apple family were happy to hear about our wedding and wanted to come. Not to mention Pinkie's rock family since my big brother is dating one of them ever since Hearth's Warming."
"I'm sure that when this war ends, we can proceed to our wedding if that would make you two happy," Charming Thunder said.
"That would be nice," Sunset said before she kissed Charming Thunder on the cheek.
Day 30
Charming Thunder along with Sunset and Applejack sat around the table and activated the holo-communicator. The holo figures of the entire council then appeared around the table. He turned to see Twilight wearing vampony armor and greeted, "Ah, Danny. I see you brought Twilight and Rainbow. How's your progress, Twilight?"
"Wonderfully, and my training is complete," Twilight replied with a smile.
"Thanks to a certain vampony ally of mine, she taught Twilight everything," Danny explained. "I have to say, though, Twilight. You impressed me when you advance so fast. As for our military progress, about half the army is fully trained. I’ve been having scouts scout out around Equestria for Havoc’s activities and it was as I had feared. Havoc is mobilizing an army on Equestrian soil. Several Ghouls have already mass up and there have been sightings of Lichs. Due to this, I’ll have to deploy the fully trained part to secure Equestria. While we defend Equestria from Havoc, Equestria should focus most of its efforts to defend the Crystal Empire and countering the Scourge. Now, give me your part, Charming."
Charming Thunder nodded and began to explain his situation, "We made defensive lines around the Crystal Empire and the frontier reports being attacked at several different times, each wave being bigger. At this rate, we’ll need support from you guys."
"So we decided to send reinforcements to the frontier," Chrysalis added. "A large group of Ponylorians have made it to the frontier to lend support. Brutalight had send three-fours of the Grand Phantom Army to the Crystal Empire. The Frontier reports that there are no more problems but we feel it is a matter of time before they return with a bigger army."
"Alright," Danny replied.
"By the way, the wedding was postpone due to the Scourge attacks," Charming Thunder reported. "I’m heading to the frontier in some time from now to help fight against the enemy."
"I wish you luck, brother," Danny said. "We will discuss later, no doubt. May the Force be with you all." The holo figures faded away as Charming Thunder stood up while Sunset and Applejack did the same.
Equestria Wars Episode XII: Return of the Scourge
Chapter 3: Arriving at the Frontier
An Imperial Escort Carrier flew towards the frontier as Charming Thunder's Sentinel Class Shuttle flew out of its hangar and being escorted by two TIE Interceptors. The shuttle approached the landing pad and folded its wings to land on the platform. A crystal pony wearing scout trooper armor approached the ship as the ramp lowered. One of the guards next to the door saw Charming Thunder exit the shuttle and was greeted by the pony. "Welcome to the frontier, your highness," he said. "I am Reznov, your second in command by order of Danny Eclipse. It is an honor to meet the son of Sombra."
"How do you know of me?" Charming Thunder asked.
"I was once a soldier during the Crystal Wars before the Crystal Empire disappeared." Charming Thunder was surprised that he met a soldier from many years ago. Reznov drew out his blaster and turned to point his weapon at the approaching guard who started to raise his spear and got shot.
"What the hey are you doing?"
"Relax." Reznov took out his scanner and began to examine the guards corpse. "Just as I thought. He was infected from our last attack. Somehow this Arthas guy I've been hearing about is trying to kill you." Reznov puts his data pad away and his blaster and turns to Charming Thunder.
"I thank you for the save then." Charming Thunder walked with Reznov inside the frontier and approached a crystal pony wearing a commando gear with his helmet off. He was planning some battle tactics for the next time the invaders come to the frontier. He then noticed Reznov and Charming Thunder approaching and turned to face them.
"Charming, meet Alex Mason. He helps lead raids and battles with his friends Woods and Bowman. He is also my second in command."
"Glad to meet you, sir," Alex greeted as he bowed.
"A pleasure," Charming Thunder replied. "Any idea what we are dealing with?"
"No idea. I have scanned various forces that attacked our base." Alex then accessed the computer to bring up holo figures of the enemy he was talking about. "These are nothing like the ones we have faced."
"I think I know somepony who can. Send me the data and I'll show it to my brother. He might know what they are." Alex then handed Charming Thunder a data pad with the information he needed.
"We also have reports that another wave is coming with the total of seven hundred heading this way. If your brother has the information we need, we need it now." Charming Thunder nodded then left the briefing room to go to his quarters with the guards escorting him. The doors close behind him and activated his holo communicator to contact Danny.
The holo figure of Danny then appeared as he asked, "What's up, brother?"
"I’m at the frontier at the Crystal Empire, we’ve spotted a large battalion of seven hundred Scourge troops coming this way. We could use some tactical information."
"The horrifying Undead army, called the Scourge, consists of thousands of walking corpses, disembodied spirits, damned mortal ponies and insidious extra-dimensional entities. The Scourge was created by the Burning Legion for the sole purpose of sowing terror across the world in anticipation of the Legion's inevitable invasion. The Undead was formally ruled by Ner'zhul, the Lich King, who lords over the icy realm of Northrend from his frozen throne. Ner'zhul commanded the terrible plague of undeath, which he sends ever southward into Lordaeron. As the plague encroaches on the southlands, more and more ponies fall prey to Ner'zhul's mental control and life-draining sickness every day. In this way, Ner'zhul has swelled the ranks of the already considerable Scourge. The Undead employ necromantic magics and the elemental powers of the cold north against their enemies. That is what the way; before Arthas took control and Ner’zhul became Arthas’s adviser. I’ll have to look it up later."
"Do you know their forces?"
"I have some files of them. Give me the images." Charming Thunder sent the data he recieved from Alex as Danny analyzed each image he sees.
"Well?"
"Alright. I’ll tell you all about them. First is the Ghoul. Ghouls are the basic warriors of the Undead Scourge. These lumbering, rotting corpses were once Zombies that have made the final transition into true 'undeath'. Ghouls have great stamina and revel in combat with living beings. Ghouls are ravenous cannibals who can regenerate their wounds by eating the flesh of fallen warriors." Charming had the look like he was going to barf.
"Oh Celestia....that is just sickening."
"Next is the Crypt Fiend. Crypt Fiends are large, mummified creatures who appear to be a genetic cross between minotaurs and spiders. Their lower bodies are supported by six spindly arachnid limbs and their heavily bandaged torsos are minotaur in form, without horns though. The cunning Crypt Fiends were once the lords of the ancient spider kingdom of Azjol-Nerub that spanned the entirety of Northrend in ancient times. However, the Crypt Fiends' power base was destroyed by the Lich King, Ner'zhul, when he and his undead Scourge took control of the frozen continent. Now the Crypt Fiends command their spider underlings in the name of their master, Ner'zhul. These aberrant creatures are capable of summoning swarms of vile insects and projecting web-like strands to incapacitate and harm their enemies."
"Oh great, spiders… why does it have to be spiders?"
"That is the least of your worries. One of the strangest and most dire tools utilized by the undead Scourge is the dreaded Meat Wagon. This rickety contraption is used to collect and store recently slain corpses from the field of battle. At any time, corpses can be pulled from the Meat Wagon and raised into undead warriors. The Meat Wagon can also 'fling' diseased corpses at enemy units by use of a crude catapult device. An invaluable support vehicle for the Scourge, the Meat Wagon strikes fear and woe into the hearts of even the most resolute defenders. Also, they make wonderful siege tanks against buildings and bases."
"Wow… so we were to be hit by diseased corpses. That is not the most terrifying thing I have seen yet."
"That is not it yet. The twisted, mutilated bodies of the Abominations are comprised of multiple dead limbs and body parts from various corpses. These enormous warriors love to carve flesh and tear their enemies apart. The slow moving and slow-witted Abominations constantly drip blood behind them and smell like a disease ridden slaughterhouse. They carry large cleavers into combat and wield various sickle-bladed hooks on their disproportionate limbs." This sent the shiver in Charming Thunder's spine.
"Even more sickening… the Scourge are so ruthless."
"Fortified statue that can regenerate the health and mana of nearby friendly units. Can research Destroyer Form. Believed to be gifts granted by Ner'zhul, the Obsidian Statues are often used as figureheads at the forefront of many Undead armies, inspiring awe and fear in the enemy ranks. Nothing can prepare the enemy for what this unfathomable statue could become. Attacks land and air forces. And to add to it is it’s Destroyer form. Large flying creature that must consume magic to sustain its mana. Breaking free of the obsidian stone that holds them, these monstrous creatures roar into battle, swallowing magic to feed their insatiable hunger as they move between battles and rain destruction down upon their foes. Has Spell Immunity. Attacks land and air units. In this form, the Destroyer works very well against Spell Casters like Unicorns."
"Oh great, an enemy with anti-spell caster creatures that can act like Tirek."
"And the last one is the one that normally turns the tide of the battle; The Necromancer. Though they retained their Ponity after making a pact with death, Necromancers became the most terrifying agents of the Scourge. These dark, insidious ponies were once thought to be aspiring geniuses by the Magocracy of Equestria. However, their insatiable lust to delve into the secrets of the dark arts drove them to forsake their very souls. Ner'zhul, the Lich King, granted these malevolent sorcerers true power over the dead in exchange for their loyalty and obedience. The shadowy Necromancers have the power to command various types of Undead and even spread the foul undead plague as well. They have the ability to raise the dead into Skeleton Warriors and Mages."
"You are right; they are the turning point of a battle."
"Yes, but each army has a commander. So there has to be a commander of this battalion."
A flame trooper entered the room then saluted and reported, "My king, we have spotted a leader. He looks like a skeleton-looking earth pony." The image was then transferred to Danny as he analyzed it.
"Oh yes, a Death Knight."
"You know anything about these ‘Death Knights’?" Charming Thunder asked.
"Death Knights were once virtuous defenders of Ponity. However, once the Paladin ranks were disbanded by the failing Alliance, many of these holy warriors traveled to the quarantined lands to ease the suffering of those left within the plague-ridden colonies. Though the Paladins were immune to disease of any kind, they were persecuted by the general populace who believed that they had been infected by the foul plague. A small band of Paladins, embittered by society's cruelty, traveled north to find the plague's source. These renegade Paladins succumbed to bitter hatred over the course of their grueling quest. When they finally reached Ner'zhul's icy fortress in Northrend they had become dark and brooding. The Lich King offered them untold power in exchange for their services and loyalty. The weary, vengeful warriors accepted his dark pact, and although they retained their ponity, their twisted souls were bound to his evil will for all time. Bestowed with black, vampiric Runeblades, Death Knights serve as the Scourge's mightiest generals." Charming put a hoof on his chin and began to think.
"So, Arthas is using Death Knights to lead his armies."
"He has about only three Death Knights left, as were the others were murdered back during the Battle of the Frozen Throne. To the appearance of this one, I would guess his name is Lord Darkhallow."
"Anything should I know about him?"
"He was a Paladin formerly known as Malak the Avenger. Malak was a war hero back then and when his final battle came, instead of killing him, Arthas; who was a Death Knight back then, turned him into a Death Knight as well. His new name; Lord Darkhallow, and his new legion was well famous for slaughtering bases. During the Battle of the Frozen Throne, most of his legion was wiped out by Celestia’s army and the Alliance’s remnants. No doubt he went into hiding with some other Death Knights and waited for their master to return. Now, when the newly Lich King Arthas, he and the survivors came out of hiding and returned to their master’s side. Darkhallow was well known for leading assaults. His favorites the Abominations as his warriors so his legion was known for destroying enemy legions."
"So, he prefers to lead assaults with his army."
"That’s not all. The Runeblades act like a Lightsaber, so it won’t be easy to defeat him. All of the Death Knights have a common powers and abilities. The first one is known as “Death Coil”. This attack is able to heal undead and can kill severely damaged living. The next one is known as “Death Pact”. It heals the Death Knight while giving him a buff in his strength but at the cost of an undead creature. The more powerful the creature, the better heal and strength the Death Knight gets. The next one is known as “Unholy Aura”. This aura can increase speed and regeneration for both the Death Knight and his nearby undead minions. And finally, a Death Knight’s ultimate power, “Animate Dead”. This power raises six dead bodies. The power raises up the most powerful body. Also, this power makes the animated body invulnerable. So, it’s useless to fight them. The best course of action is to run, since this power does have a time limit."
"Thanks for the information brother. I’m glad to have you as my brother." Danny nodded with a smile.
"See you later. Oh, and I’ll have to give you something."
"And what might--" Danny's transmission ended as Charming Thunder was about to ask him what he was going to give him. He stepped out of his quarters and sees Reznov rushing over to him.
"Your highness, the army is approaching and we are preparing for another defense," Reznov reported.
"I will join up with them to help with the defense. Have Scorponok ready for combat. We may need it."
"Scorponok, sir?"
"I requested Danny to send him over to the frontier before I came here. Don't worry. He won't bite."
Equestria Wars Episode XII: Return of the Scourge
Chapter 4: Defense of the Frontier
At the walls of the frontier, an army of soldiers stood as the Scourge army approached. Charming Thunder was among one of the soldiers next to Reznov with his scout helmet on. A Death Knight was in front of the army as they continued their march to the frontier. "Is Scorponok in position?" Charming Thunder asked.
"Yes, your highness," Reznov replied. "He will attack on your signal." Charming Thunder smiled as he continued to observe the enemy.
"Good. Send him out now." As the enemy continued their approach, their leader noticed the ground burrowing their way and signaled their army to a halt. He drew his sword out as the mysterious being approached them. The burrowing stopped as they kept their eyes open and looked around.
"It must've been nothing," the Death Knight said. Suddenly, a scorpion like robot popped out of the ground and started to attack the undead forces. Scorponok fired a barrage of missiles to lower the numbers as the others charged at the walls of the frontier.
"Snipers!!" Reznov shouted as the soldiers aimed their snipers at the undead forces awaiting their next orders. "Fire!!" They then opened fire on each and every approaching soldier. Some undead archers fired arrows at the ponies and are beginning to suffer heavy losses. The soldiers took cover behind the walls as the arrows continued to fire. Charming Thunder observed the attack as the undead forces approached the gate.
"Brace the gate!!" Charming Thunder ordered as the soldiers at the gates held the doors to keep it shut. Scorponok fired its weapons at the remaining forces then burrowed deep into the ground to make an approach to the enemies at the gate. He then bursted out of the ground and tail swiped the ghouls that were hitting the gate.
"RETREAT!!" the Death Knight ordered as he ran back to where he came along with his army. The soldiers at the walls cheered as the undead began their retreat.
"Scorponok, return to base," Charming Thunder ordered. "Danny will be impressed with your progress."
At Tartarus, Mephiles was sitting on his throne. He was studying the status of the war between the Equestrian Empire and the Scourge. As predicted, the Scourge lost due to advance technology but the Equestrian Empire took heavy losses. He heard the door open and he looked up, see Tirek coming in. "Well, master?" he asked.
"While I’m glad that Arthas and Havoc are causing chaos, but Charming and Danny have come up with a solution," Mephitis replied. "Normally, I would hate this but this shows me...interest."
"Who?"
"Danny...he is not only extremely powerful, but his connection to the Dark side… it is remarkable that he hasn’t lost himself inside the darkness yet."
"Indeed. Even Sombra, who was connected to the dark side, lost himself to it. Yet his son, Danny Eclipse, has yet to lose it." Mephiles continued to observe Danny as he chopped down lichs with Trixie and Twilight.
Mephiles then thought to himself, "Indeed… he may yet be the perfect tool to take over Equestria and bring down Celestia. Charming is too much into the light side, he won’t fall for my lies. However, I sense that Danny has a hidden tension towards Charming. While Danny is confident that Charming would never hurt him, he still has that hidden tension that no one can sense." He would grin like a maniac if he had a mouth as he had a scheme in mind. "He will make the perfect tool. But I need a plan to make him mine." He then looked up at Tirek. "Leave. I have business to attend to." Tirek nodded and left the chambers. Mephiles seals the door and he began to turn into a shadow.
At the Ebon Hold, Arthas was angry that Darkhallow failed him as he returned alive. Lord Darkhallow was escorted in by his two fellow death knight survivors; Baron Bloodbane and Duke Dreadmoore. Kel’thuzad, along with Anub'arak the Crypt Lord came. "Give me one good reason why I shouldn’t kill you where you stand, Darkhallow!" Arthas shouted with rage and hatred.
"My king, they had advance technology," Darkhallow explained nervously. They had a military leader who knew all of our forces and what their role was. He had the advantage in knowledge! While the assault was unsuccessful, it did strike a crippling blow to our enemy’s defenses."
Kel’thuzad didn't believe him and asked, "How is it possible that their leader knew everything about the Scourge when we have been gone for eight hundred years?"
"Because they have The Chronicler on their side," a voice said. They all turned and see a Dread Lord standing in the shadows. The Dread Lord’s main color was Dark Grey and his eyes were soulless black with green eyes.
"What the… who are you!?" Arthas demanded. "How did you get aboard my fortress undetected!?"
"Calm yourself, Lich King. My name is Fearoth, on of the last Dread Lords that walk this planet. I have lived under disguise among the populace. I have information that might intrigue you."
"What value of this information would this be?"
"Very important to know that you have two older cousins." This got everyones attention. Arthas turned to Fearoth, curious about this information.
"Keep talking demon."
"Their names are Charming Thunder and Danny Eclipse. While Danny is the Son of Princess Luna and King Sombra, Charming is the Son of Queen Amidala and King Sombra. Charming is your cousin-in-law, considering that both Danny and Charming have the same father and were born on the same day at the same time. Lord Darkhallow had encounter Charming Thunder, the leader and King of Harmony." rthas looked at Darkhallow then his gaze went to Fearoth again.
"Why tell me this?"
"Let’s just say that many of my plans to bring Equestria into ruin were foiled by Charming and his friends. I have little love for such a stallion to do something like this." Arthas accepted the reason and nodded.
Meanwhile in Tartarus, in a mediation room located in Mephiles' underground fortress, unicorn who wore white robes was sitting in a mediation position. His entire right hoof was replaced with a robotic hoof. He had a mask on, mostly. The upper left side was still flesh. He had his eyes closed, mediating but then stopped when he senses something. "I welcome you, Lady Ventress," the unicorn said. "What is it that you want?" Suddenly, a centaur that looked identical to Tirek came out. The only difference that was there was she was the same height as Princess Celestia and had markings on her arms. She looked like a female version of Tirek but she had two lightsabers.
"Well done in detecting me so easily, Arcann," Ventress replied.
"What do you want?"
"You know that Mephiles is just using us. Why not rebel and join Charming?"
"I told you that my loyalties are tied to Master Mephiles. But I agree with you. We will act in the future but for now, we go with the flow." Ventress nodded and left into the shadows as Arcann continued his meditation.
Equestria Wars Episode XII: Return of the Scourge
Chapter 5: The Dark Future
At the counsel room, a meeting was being held while most of the members were contacting from hologram transmission. A hologram of Danny appeared who started to sit down next to Rainbow. "Alright, now that we are here," Celestia said. "Let us proceed with the order."
"So, what is the progress with Havoc?" Charming Thunder asked.
"We have fought his army everywhere in Equestria," Danny reported. "The assault will proceed soon, the other half of my army is almost complete. Also, I think I’m being watched."
"What makes you say that?" Celestia asked curiously.
"Every day, I have a tingling sensation running down my spine like a warning. I always turned to meet the source but it suddenly vanishes. And when I turn to leave, the sensation is back."
"Is it possible that you are being followed by an assassin?" Luna asked.
"No, not even an assassin has such marveling skill to avoid my eyes. It isn’t a ghost either because my ghost senses would have gone off." This seemed to trouble everyone. Danny noticed that Discord was here as well seated in his own throne next to Celestia. Danny suddenly felt something as Discord felt it as well. "You felt it too Discord?" Discord nodded and that was when they heard a dark chuckle in the room. They got up and began to look around.
"Hello again, my dear rival Discord... it’s been so long since I last seen you," a male voice said. Discord’s eyes narrowed and everyone sees an Vampony Alicorn appear in the center of the table, looking at Discord. The Vampony Alicorn had cyan color coat, brown mane and tail along with a small brown beard. His eyes were completely white, no pupils at all. He had a unicorn horn and vampony wings, which were cyan color as well. But what was what caught my attention was his cutie mark. His cutie mark was a fireball and there was only one like it in the world.
"Herobrine! Aspect of Pranks and Trolls and King of the Nether Realm! I had thought you were banished to the Nether and End Realms by Starswirl himself!" Herobrine turned to Danny with a smirk on his face.
"It is good to know that I have not yet been forgotten in this world. I had originally thought that Starswirl would not record any record of me in the history books."
"Actually, I’m the Chronicler. You have not been recorded in Equestrian History, but in my books, you have been." The title alone made Discord and Herobrine gasp in shock.
"Danny… you’re the Chronicler!?" Discord asked.
"What is the Chronicler?" Twilight asked, not knowing why the name was so important.
"I, myself, am wondering the same thing," Celestia agreed.
"You see, there are many aspects," Herobine explained. "Celestia is, unknowingly, the Aspect of the Light. Luna is the Aspect of the Night. Cadence is the Aspect of Love. Discord is the Aspect of Chaos. Sombra was the Aspect of Shadow, until he died. Twilight is the Aspect of Magic. Charming is the Aspect of Harmony. I am the Aspect of Pranks and/or Trolling. The Chronicler is the supposed Aspect of Knowledge. Mephiles is the Aspect of Darkness. And to end it all off; Lilith is the Aspect of Lust. Also, Danny is also supposed to be the Aspect of Insanity but being two Aspect at once is sometime rare." There were a series of gasps around the table.
"So…we have been Aspects without even knowing it!" Charming Thunder shouted with surprise and shock.
"Actually Charming; when you were revived by the Elements of Harmony, it acknowledge you AS the Aspect of Harmony," Danny explained. "So, you became an Aspect like me not that long ago. But to truly become an Aspect, we still must pass the third and final trial. Our father never achieved that, since he was driven into evil. He never became a full Aspect so he wasn’t as powerful as Celestia or Luna." danny began to get up from his chair. "Well, this has been interesting and everything but I must really get going." Everyone looked at Danny as Rainbow nodded. The hologram of Danny, Rainbow, and Twilight faded away as everything in the room became quiet. It felt like an hour or two when it was only five minutes when Herobrine broke the silence.
"Well… this just got awkward now," Herobine said.
"How is Lilith lately?" Discord asked.
"Just fine, actually. I heard you and Fluttershy are getting along well."
"Actually, we broke up when Dark Fluttershy began to be aggressive to me. So, Masquerade and Fluttershy are together again." Everyone gasped with shock after hearing the news.
"My gosh Discord, I am so sorry for you," Charming Thunder said. "You alright?"
"I appreciate your concern, but I am fine now."
A week later since the meeting, Charming Thunder sat down on the floor in his quarters as he meditated. He heard the news that Sonata became Danny's final mate and a vampony. He didn't trust her, but he is happy that a siren is in love with Danny even after what she and the other Dazzlings did at the human world. A time portal suddenly opened over his head as he looked up to see it. The portal began to suck him in as he screamed with fear.
Charming Thunder groaned as he slowly opened his eyes to see that Twilight, Rainbow, and his brother Danny who then helped Charming Thunder up from the ground. When the others got up, they see what Danny was seeing. They were standing in the destroyed town which appears to look a lot like Ponyville. "What happened and what was with that vortex earlier?" Charming Thunder asked.
"That was a time portal," Danny explained. "How it opened was beyond me. One opened above me and the girls."
"Did anypony get the number on the portal?" Rainbow said sarcastically. Charming Thunder and Danny chuckled at her sarcasm. The group then looked around frowning and having sad expressions on their faces.
"What happened to this place?" Twilight asked.
"This is the future of Equestria?" Charming Thunder added. "What happened?" Before anybody could reply, Danny felt himself to be stiffed against his will.
"Ah ha!" a voice cried with victory. "Got you!" The group turned to see a white unicorn with a weird white mane and tail, blood red eyes, and had a mane collar around his neck, and his cutie mark was a weird teal symbol.
"Who are you?" Danny asked.
"Don’t act like you don’t remember me; not after what you did to my parents, monster!"
"Wait!" Charming Thunder shouted as he stood in front of Danny. The unicorn's eyes widened with shock and surprise.
"C-Charming Thunder? But how!? You’re dead!"
"Wait, dead?"
"How is Charming dead?" Rainbow asked as the unicorn backed up a few steps.
"This isn’t possible...Twilight and Rainbow..."
"Are we dead as well?" Twilight asked to confirm.
"No...but you two are the enemy."
"How did all of this happen?" Rainbow asked.
"My mom told me that Canterlot was attack 10 years ago. During the attack, Twilight and Rainbow along with Shining Armor toke over Canterlot Castle and both Charming and Danny fighting against each other and the roof collapsed on Charming that was caused and..." The unicorn looked at Danny with hatred in his eyes. His horn ignited brighter and began to charge an attack. "And it was all your fault!!" Before he could attack, a green energy wave knocked him away. They looked at the source, seeing Danny, but with a different appearance.
""Actually, that was me," Future Danny said. " "And you eventually." He lands down to the ground, Danny was freed from the control of the unicorn. "Well, well, well. Charming Thunder, it’s been a while. 10 years to be accurate...so, what do I own this blast from the past?"
"We were sent here for some off reason," Charming Thunder replied. Future Danny goes to his side as Danny's medallion suddenly began to glow as he see's his future self wearing the medallion as it glowed.
"It seems that seeing each other here and our medallions may have caused some confusion between the past and future Unicron," Danny said.
"While you may be from the past, I’m going to finish what I started 10 years ago," Future Danny said. "You know, if I an ounce of ponity left in me this would be a very touching little reunion, Charming." Twilight and Rainbow looked at each other then looked back at him. "But of course I surrendered my pony half a long time ago..." Before he could do anything, he was blasted back with a beam of magic. They were freed and they turned to see Light Sparkle who looks like that she hasn't aged a bit standing next to a friend of hers. She was a lavender alicorn with purple mane and tail. Her eyes were bright yellow, like the sun, and her cutie mark was flame. A pony which appears to be Sonic rushed over to Future Danny helping him up.
Light looked at Charming Thunder and asked, "Dad? How are you here?"
"We are from the past send here for some reason," Charming Thunder replied. "What’s going on!?"
"Allow me to introduce myself; I am Princess Blaze, daughter of Princess Celestia," Blaze greeted.
"And sorry about before," the unicorn added. "My name is Silver, son of Shadow and Pinkie Pie."
"Ah ha!" Danny shouted. "Knew it! That is 50 bits for me, Charming!" Twilight and Rainbow had a confused look while Charming Thunder groaned.
"Oh yes, I remember that bet," Future Danny said as he got up. "Me and Charming bet that Shadow and Pinkie would get married and have a child."
"Is that who I think it is, Light?"
"Yep; the blue one is your son Danny, just older," Light said.
"That’s Sonic!?" Rainbow shouted with shock.
"Indeed," Sonic replied. The group now sees Shining Armor, a new looking Twilight, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash arriving to Future Danny and Sonic. "Ok, why is the future Twilight looking like that? She looks like Nightmare Moon. And what happened to the other girls?"
"It’s her Lunar Form and the others were granted power and darkness by Cyber when they joined him," Light explained.
"Lunar Form?" Twilight asked. "When did I get that?"
"Oh; she’s from the past," Lunar Twilight said. "Probably before the invasion."
"Invasion?" Charming Thunder asked.
"Let us not alter time now," Future Danny warned. Lunar Twilight whined to him.
"But Cyber, I’ve been dying to tell him!"
"Fine. But don’t say too much." Lunar Twilight cheered and returned her gaze to the group.
"I can’t believe you lied to your friends and family about the secret Charming! You lied to Luna, you lied to your father, you even lied to your brother! You kept the truth from them for too long now! Tell them what happened back in the Lunar Wars! Tell them what you did to the loyalists of the NLR that were your friends!"
"Charming...what is she talking about?" Twilight asked.
"I...don’t know what she is talking about," Charming Thunder nervously replied.
"Don’t lie Charming! My past self may not remember but I do! I was the daughter of Luna and sister to Danny! Twivine was my twin sister! But you wanted your precious Twilight and you lied to get it! It sickens me to know such a thing from you!" Everyone, including Twilight, looked at Charming Thunder. He was on the ground, almost heart broken. Danny shook it off and stepped forward.
"I knew Twilight was my sister," Danny added. There were surprise gasps from Twilight and Charming Thunder looked up too. "I am the Aspect of Knowledge; I knew Twilight was my family five to six hundred years ago. I knew everything from the past to present. I knew about prophecies and more. I was always prepared for the future."
"Y-You knew?"
"Yes. I’ve always known. I only thought Charming would release the spell when he was ready to admit it. But seeing this now...it pains me to see the future like this." Danny began to cloak himself using his element. He also created Withered Golden Freddy and Super Sonic (From Five Nights at Sonic’s). "I must do everything in my power to defeat you, even if you are our former friends!"
"If you think we will go down without a fight, guess again!" Sonic shouted.
"You are in the past, but I am more stronger," Cyber added. "I have already unlocked my true powers of being the Aspect of Insanity!" His necklace appeared around his neck. It changed color from green to dark red. Cyber lay down and suddenly, he began to dash away, leaving a series of ‘clicks’. The group got into their battle positions.
"He had Pinkis’ powers!?" Charming Thunder shouted in question. "How!?"
"He’s the Aspect of Insanity," Danny explained. "Being the Aspect of the Elements of Insanity, he is granted the powers and abilities of their wielders." The group suddenly see Cyber jumping at them. Danny created a ghost shield to defend themselves. from the attack. Cyber was pushed back and his jewel color changed from dark red to neon. Suddenly, his ears changed to earbuds and he had a smirk on his face. His right hoof changed to a shotgun and he fired it at them, making the group scatter.
"He switched from Pinkis to Rainbine!" Twilight shouted.
"Time that we got out of here. I’ll end this quickly!" Danny inhaled then performed the Ghostly Wail, causing Cyber to be sent backwards into a building. He then aimed his hoof at a wall and a portal opened. "Like Clockwork, I can control time and use it. We must return to our timeline." Twilight and Rainbow had already enter the time portal while him and Charming Thunder were about to go when they were stopped by Light.
"Hey, Dad and Grandpa Danny," Light said. "There is something I want to tell you."
"What is it?" Charming Thunder asked.
"Before Danny became Cyber, he had worked on a project known as ‘Project Revival’. Danny, you already know how to reanimate the dead, so he did research and managed to bring back an uncorrupt Sombra, Amidala, and Starswirl back to life."
"I what?" Danny said. Light only nodded and smiled as Charming Thunder grabbed his hoof and rushed through the portal.
The group was in the middle of the time stream gap as Danny sees Charming Thunder, Twilight, and Rainbow asleep. He then entered his alicorn form and used a memory block spell on the three. "This is for the safety of the future," Danny said. "You three must never remember what you have witnessed, so you will never remember about the vortex. But do not worry; when the crisis is adverted, you will remember everything. For now...let you three forget everything." When the spell ended, he sent Charming Thunder back to the front lines in the Crystal Empire and he returned himself along with Twilight and Rainbow back to the village. They won’t remember anything about the future when they wake up.
Equestria Wars Episode XII: Return of the Scourge
Chapter 6: The Covenant Empire
Charming Thunder has received reports that has been strange activity going on at the boarder of the Zebra Empire and that Danny and the others are coming to meet him at his Super Star Destroyer that is being escorted by two Star Destroyers. He headed to the hangar bay where a row of his stormtroopers lined up next to Danny's shuttle and the ramp lowered and sees Danny, Twilight, and Rainbow walk down to exit the shuttle. Twilight noticed him and rushed over to hug him after not seeing him in a long time since her training. She gave him a tight hug and almost broke his entire body in one bone crushing hug. Danny healed his brother for any bones that were either out of place or may have broken. He then began to walk with him as Charming Thunder said to him, "I heard that you have mated with Sonata and Trixie. Good for you, brother."
"Thanks," Danny replied. "Though the marriage will have to wait until this war is over." He then took out a recorded disc and gave it to Charming Thunder. "Here is the gift I mentioned to you." Charming took it with his magic and looked at it, wondering what was on it. He put it in one of the bags he had and they went up to the bridge.
"I wish to inform you that Scorponok did a wonderful job at the frontier."
"Excellent. Also, did you get the news about the getaway island for us?"
"Indeed. I must admit it will make a perfect place to relax and get away from royal duties."
"I agree. Maybe we should consider going together with our girls there after the war? All of this fighting and stuff is really making me blood thirsty and that isn’t a good thing at the moment."
"Yeah, I get you there. All of this work really is aching me. We really need a break."
Later, Charming Thunder and the others arrive at the coordinates and took a transport down to the surface. The ramp lowered while Charming Thunder, Danny, Twilight, Rainbow, Trixie, Sonata, Applejack, and Sunset began to walk out of the shuttle. They then suddenly came into an ambush between Three Zebra Ghosts and one Zebra Wraith along with a bunch of alien-looking soldiers. Most carried Needlers or Energy Swords, and a few carried Storm Rifles. Charming Thunder and the others were about to go to their weapons but Danny held up is hoof to hold the action. He then approached an Elite Covenant and he looked at him before speaking the language that he alone understands. "{Who are you intruders!?} the Elite demanded. "{Why do you cross our land!?}" Charming Thunder and the others were confused as Danny spoke their language.
"{My name is Danny Eclipse, Son of Princess Luna and King Sombra,}" Danny explained. "{I am the Aspect of Insanity and The Chronicler, so you already know that I’m able to speak all of the languages in the world; even Sangheili.}” The Covenant Soldiers had a look of surprise as they began to talk amongst themselves. Danny pointed to the others and introduced them. "{These are my friends. The red one is Charming Thunder, King of Harmony and the Element of Courage. He is my brother, same father. He is also leader of the Equestrian Empire. The cyan one with rainbow hair and tail is one of my mates; Rainbow Dash. She is the Element of Loyalty. The orange one with blonde hair and tail and with the cowgirl hat is Applejack; The Element of Honesty and one of Charming’s mates. The lavender one that looks like an alicorn is Twilight Sparkle; The Princess of Friendship, Element of Magic, and another one of Charming’s mates. The yellow one with the yellow and red hair is Sunset Shimmer; Protégé of Twilight Sparkle and the third mate of Charming Thunder. The light blue or teal one is Trixie Lulamoon; My first apprentice and one of my mates. Finally; the light blue close to white is Sonata Dusk; one of three Sirens, my third mate, and is my second apprentice.}"
"Danny, you can understand them?" Charming Thunder asked.
"Of course; I’m the Chronicler, Aspect and Keeper of Knowledge. I know of all the languages, even alien languages." The Covenant Soldiers looked at us then motioned them to follow.
The group arrived at an alien-looking base and we entered a palace. An alien warrior sat n the throne with two Elite Covenant Guards. The one on the throne was an alien wearing black suit. On his waist was an energy sword. The alien looked down to them and Danny gasped as he recognized him. He then knelt down as the others looked at Danny. "{{King Thel 'Vadam, otherwise known as The Arbiter,}" Danny greeted. "{We came here in wonder of the activity that our military have detected. To what do I own the pleasure of seeing the king of the Covenant here?}" Arbiter looked down at him half surprise, half curious and got up from his throne.
"{You speak the language of my people?}" Arbiter asked. "{How is that possible?}"
"{He claims to be The Chronicler,}" The Elite Covenant Commander interrupted, answering his question. Arbiter, now, had a look of surprise on his face. He looked down at Danny again and walked up to him. When he was above him, he examined him and noticed his two lightsabers and his medallion.
"{You intrigue me, Aspect of Knowledge. I did not expect your kind to be here. Tell me; are you powerful and strong?}" Danny nodded to Arbiter. "{Then I challenge you to a fight. One on one, challenge in the Arena. I desire to test your skills with a weapon.}" Danny looked up on got out of his kneeling position.
"{I would be honored, your highness,}" Danny said. "{What are the terms of this duel?}"
"{If you win; we will join you and your army. We will also give you the same technology and more like how we gave them to the Zebra Empire. If I win; you leave and never return. Do you agree, Chronicler?}"
"Challenge accepted. Just wondering though; do you know how to speak Equestrian?"
"Yes. I can speak Equestrian, though I have a very hard time speaking it, I can understand you perfectly." Before Charming Thunder could say anything, Danny turned and began to leave the throne room with him.
"What happened in there?" Charming Thunder asked. "What’s going on?"
"I’ve been challenge to a fight and I tend to not lose. I must train now."
In the arena, Danny stood on one side as Arbiter was on the other side. They were ready to fight and Danny could see Charming Thunder and the others watching from the stand. "{Welcome everyone to the challenge of the year!}" the Covenant Announcer declared. "{Our warriors today is King Thel 'Vadam vs. King Danny Eclipse! Who do you think will win? Are the combatants ready for a fight?}" Danny pulled out his lightsabers as Arbiter pulled out his Energy Sword and activated it. "{I take that as a ‘yes’. Now, Fight!!}" Danny charged at Arbiter who did the same and the fight has started. Danny held on as his blades closed with his. When Arbiter pulled back, he made a quick move to attack underneath. Danny was already on the move as he jumped over Arbiter's head. He went for the slash, but Arbiter already moved and blocked it. When Danny landed to the ground, he went to the offensive and jumped at him, spinning like a tornado. Arbiter blocked the strikes and pulled back from the melee combat.
At the stand, Charming Thunder and the others watched as he was surprised with his recent strike. "Whoa...where did he learned that?" he asked. Suddenly, the spirits of Yoda, Anakin, Obi Wan, and Qui-Gon appeared besides them. Everyone nearly jumped when they saw them.
"That move..." Obi-Wan said in disbelief. "Master Yoda, wasn’t that move-"
"Indeed," Yoda replied. "Darth Sidious’ lightsaber technique, it is." Suddenly, the spirits of Sidious, Starkiller, Dooku, and Revan appeared in front of them in the seats.
"He is, indeed, a powerful Sith," Sideous said with pride in his voice. "While his causes are good, his beliefs are strong, he is a true Sith."
"What are you four doing here!?" Anakin demanded.
Dooku looked at Anakin and said, "Don’t start now; Anakin Skywalker. You have seen that our apprentice, Danny Eclipse, is a true warrior of the ways of the lightsaber."
Danny was panting slightly while Arbiter was panting more than him. Danny was still holding his position while Arbiter did as well. He was chuckling now, seeing that this fight was, indeed, a challenge and he began to charge at him. Danny acted fast as he dashed at him and combined his lightning with his lightsabers then slashed at him knocking his Energy Sword away. He then pointed his weapon at hi throat. "I win," Danny said. Arbiter, on the other hand, had other plans. He punched him and knocked him away. Danny recovered and looked at the Arbiter as he grabbed his Energy Sword and pulled out another Energy Sword, now entering a duel wielding stance.
"I'm not finished yet, young one," Arbiter said. Danny smirked as he readied himself and they both charged again with their weapons clashing at each other this time. Danny broke the lock and went to the offensive. He then flipped and began to spin like a top in mid-air. When Arbiter blocked the attack, Danny landed on the ground. Arbiter then charged at him hoping to lend a hit on him. Danny kept pulling back to avoid the Arbiter's attacks. He then used his speed when he saw an opening and dashed at him. When he was below him, kicked him high into the sky and he dropped his energy swords. Danny got back on all fours and jumped up to him. When he was in front of Arbiter, he began to barrage him with punches and kicks. When he finished, he punched him and launched him back to the wall. When Arbiter got up from the wall, he looked at Danny as he held his hand up. "You win Chronicler, you have defeated me in fair combat." Cheers were then heard from the crowd as Danny walked away with a smile.
Equestria Wars Episode XII: Return of the Scourge
Chapter 7: The Lair of the Chronicler
Charming Thunder along with the other Alliance Royals followed Danny as they arrived to a wall. Danny turned to them and said, "Before we go to my Library; I do have rules. Rule 1#: Do not take any books without my permission, otherwise I will be alerted and I would know who took the book and trust me when I say that I’ll banish you from the Library for eternity.” Twilight gave out a sad sigh, Danny knew she was planning to take some books without permission. Charming Thunder patted her on the back as everyone else nodded. "Rule 2#: Do not take any pictures or anything of the Library and show no one of the knowledge that leaves the Library unless I say you can. The knowledge of the library is sacred and I don’t care if you are my relative; it must remain a secret. And finally; Rule 3#: Do not use my knowledge for military purpose unless I say you can. Are we in an understand?" Everyone nodded and Danny smiled. "Excellent. Also, only I can open the gateway to the Chronicler’s Lair, even if you knew the password." Danny then pointed his hoof to the wall. "Open Sesame!!" Suddenly, a door opened on the wall. Danny smirked walked to it, opening it up, revealing a whole new room. He then gestured everyone to follow him as they began to enter. Behind them, the door closes and disappears from the real world. They arrived at a giant library where a million books was stored and an hourglass stood in the center of the room, and books flying around. Everyone gasped with amazement even Twilight who tried to restrain herself from taking books from the library. "Follow me."
"So this...is where you knew everything?" Charming Thunder asked who was still awestruck. "You knew so much and now I know why."
"Of course. Speaking of which; I know the family tree in our family, everything about Equestria’s history. Speaking of history..." Danny clapped his hooves and suddenly, a book that had a golden and black cover on it with a skull and a sun on it came. The title on it said; The Book of Arthas Solar. He opened it to reveal a family tree that was inside it. Princess Celestia and a male Unicorn King was there. The picture had words underneath it that said “King Terenas”.
"Even Terenas was recorded," Celestia said, shedding a few tears of happiness.
"Everypony in the world was recorded, even the great kings and queens, they (everypony) are all recorded from their birth to the day they disappear completely." The book proceeded and revealed that both him and Charming Thunder are Arthas' cousins. As the book continues, it was reported that Arthas was taught by Uther the Lightbringer, who was status as deceased. The book also reported that he had a girlfriend named Jaina Proudmoore, who is also status as deceased. Then, they came up to a certain point when it stopped.
"What is that?" Luna asked.
"When he claimed Frostmourne and started the process."
"Frostmourne?" Twilight asked.
"The blade that Arthas uses that was created by the Lich King," Celestia said.
"Let’s see it, shall we?" The book began to glow and suddenly; the environment changed to what looked like a cold winter place. The group heard hoof steps and they looked to see one pony and one griffin approaching. Celestia began to cry with tears of happiness.
"Celestia; this is an illusion, not real," Danny said so that Celestia doesn't become too overemotional. The griffin looked somewhat old. He had white feathers, old eyes that looked tiresome. He carried an axe and hammer with him. The pony was an earth pony; he had a golden coat and brown mane and tail. On his back was a giant Warhammer.
"Behold, Muradin, our salvation, Frostmourne," Past Arthas said to the griffin. They stopped a few feet away from it. Muradin noticed something on the shrine and began to approach it. He kneeled down to the text of it.
"Hold, lad," Past Maradin interrupted. "There’s an inscription on the dais. It’s a warning. It says; Whomsoever takes up this blade shall wield eternal power. Just as the blade rends flesh, so must power scar the spirit." His eyes narrowed at the inscription and began to back up in fear. "Oh, I should've known. The blade is cursed! Let’s get the Tartarus out of here!"Muradin turned to walk away towards the exit. However, Arthas has other plans. He began to approach the shrine.
"I would gladly bear any curse to save my homeland." Muradin stopped dead in his tracks and turned to Arthas, who was already very close to the crystal holding the blade within.
"Leave it be, Arthas. Forget this business and lead your men home." The Past Arthas had a look of anger in his face and he didn’t turn to Muradin.
"Damn to men! Nothing shall prevent me from having my revenge, old friend. Not even you." Past Arthas grabbed his Warhammer and pulled out a book. He lifted the hammer high in the sky and it began to shine brightly while he never lost eye contact with the blade. "Now, I call out to the spirits of this place. I will give anything or pay any price, if only you help me save my people." The sword began to shake inside before the crystal exploded. Large chunks of it shot at Muradin, killing him in the process. Arthas looked at his dead old friend before the sword came to his side. He dropped his Warhammer behind him but kept the book before he picked up the sword with his other hoof. The environment then changed back to normal.
"I...never knew," Celestia said in complete shock.
"He became a Death Knight in order to save his homeland, only to destroy it," Danny explained.
"Whatever happened to the land?" Charming Thunder asked.
"It became the newly named Badlands." Chrysalis and Meta gasped as they never knew that they conquered a land that was once a home to ancient ponies.
"Wow," Chrysalis said in awe.
"What happened after that?" Charming Thunder asked.
"Arthas killed the Dread Lord Mal’Ganis and then continue to live in the north, slowly but surely becoming a pawn to the Lich King’s plan," Danny continued. "He even left his men to the hands of the dead. Eventually, he became the lich king and you know the first. He murdered his father, mentor, and the people he tried to save. Jaina died of old age, Arthas was only friends with Kel’Thuzad; A Lich who was once a Necromancer, and Anub’arak; a Crypt Lord and the ancient king of Azjol-Nerub. I still remember when the Vamponies, Snakeponies, and Equestrians marched to the Frozen Throne."
"I was there, leading the battle," Celestia added. "I was with Prince Kael’thas of the Vamponies and Lady Vashj of the Snakeponies. When I began to take over the very key to getting into the Frozen Throne. The only thing I wasn’t expecting was-"
"Arthas and his Undead Legion." Celeste nodded.
"When Kael’thas told me that Arthas had arrived in Northrend, I knew he would be too late to save the Lich King. But when my assault force told me that Arthas had arrived recently to the Icecrown to stop my forces from taking over; we met on the battlefield and he managed to defeat me with his powers, but didn’t kill me. He used me as being weak at the moment and went into the Frozen Throne. I had no choice and I seal him with the Lich King, hoping that he would never wake up. But alas; he has returned."
"But, wait," Charming Thunder said. "If he was way behind the invasion force, how did he manage to catch up?"
"I can answer that," Danny replied. "He went through the Shatter City Ruins of Azjol-Nerub and went through remnants of Muradin’s followers. He made it in time to defend the Frozen Throne. However; that invasion was the end of the Snakeponies race and the loss of a major force in the Vampony Empire. The Equestrian Empire took little losses."
"Now we have no way in stopping him from taking over Equestria."
"Actually… there is a way to defeat and free Arthas from the Lich King’s control."
"Really?" Celestia asked.
"Yes. Frostmourne."
"What does the blade have to do with anything?" Luna asked, not understanding what Danny said.
"Think about it. Arthas heeds the call of the Lich King through Frostmourne. If the blade is either separated or destroyed."
"Arthas won’t be able to listen to the Lich King and can be freed from his control," Charming Thunder added.
"Correct!"
"So we need to either destroy the cursed blade or get it away from him," Celestia said.
"I would guess. We need to take the fight to Arthas if we are ever going to beat him."
"But how?" Charming Thunder asked. "Arthas has an army of dead and our ponies can’t take the cold well."
"That may be true but we need to make the attack! If you don’t, Arthas will keep hitting you until the defenses are gone! So take courage and take the fight to him! Show Arthas that his plans to hold you back won’t work and he will need to take the defensive, a role the Scourge doesn’t normally take." Charming Thunder thought about the idea and nodded. Danny looked at the hourglass and realized that it was almost time to lower the sun. The group began to leave the library as Danny smiled.
Equestria Wars Episode XII: Return of the Scourge
Chapter 8: The Lich King's Orgin
Charming Thunder and Danny were in the Chronicler's lair making plans for the assault on the Arthas. "Just because I’m bending Rule #2, about using my knowledge here for military purposes, the fact that Frostmourne is a relic is more than enough reason to use my research," Danny said as he clapped his hooves and a book that was black and had skulls on it came to them. He had the book on how the Lich King came to be.
"Why do we need to know about the Lich King?" Charming Thunder asked.
"Did you know the creation of the Lich King, brother? It’s quite the tale."
"I don’t know anything about him."
"How about you see it yourself." Danny opened the book to the first part of the story titled "The Elder Shaman."
"What do Zebra shamans do with anything here?"
"Who said the shaman was a zebra?" Charming Thunder now remained silent thanks to Danny's counter question.
Danny flipped the page and the book narrator began to read, "Ner'zhul was the chieftain and elder shaman of the Shadowmoon clan and one of the most popular figures in Minotaur society. He was admired, respected and venerated by all for his deep connection to the spirits, and was the closest thing the Minotaur race had to a single leader prior to the foundation of the Horde. However, deep within, Ner'zhul craved a power he did not have. Ner'zhul was contacted by the spirit of his deceased mate, Rulkan (with whom he had a regular correspondence), who warned him about the menace of the draenei, who were plotting to destroy the minotaurs. After several moons, she introduced him to Kil'jaeden, the "Great One", who began to instruct him in the treachery of the draenei. Though Ner'zhul was elated that he was saving his people (and finally getting the power and respect he secretly desired), he was puzzled why the ancestors would no longer speak to him, and why the spirits grew more distant. Ner'zhul managed to get the rest of the clans to begin attacks on draenei settlements, supposedly by order of the ancestors, but, as he saw more and more of the draenei, he gradually became puzzled; apart from his horns, clothes, and skin tone, Kil'jaeden bore an uncanny resemblance to the draenei and possessed a hatred of Velen unbecoming of a divine being. Seeking answers, he attempted to commune with the ancestors in Oshu'gun, the "Mountain of the Spirits." He was horrified when the ancestors greeted him as a monster and when the real Rulkan revealed that Kil'jaeden had been manipulating him all along. Ner'zhul resolved to defy his demon master but Gul'dan, his apprentice, had followed him and eavesdropped on Ner'Zhul's conversation with the ancestors. Greedy for his own power, Gul'dan informed Kil'jaeden of the betrayal of the shaman. Kil'jaeden, ever one to reward good service, elevated Gul'dan to Ner'zhul's position. Ner'zhul was relegated to a ceremonial position, his powers stripped from him. Kil'jaeden forced Ner'zhul to watch helplessly as the Minotaurs slid into bloodlust and warlock magic. He was powerless to stop the rise of the Shadow Council, privy to all their secrets but able to reveal none. But Gul'dan grew careless. Thinking Ner'zhul completely powerless, he allowed his former teacher access to all of the Shadow Council's documents, and it was thus that Ner'zhul discovered that Kil'jaeden was planning to feed the Blood of Mannoroth to the Minotaurs. Ner'zhul's diminished position and Gul'dan's baleful influence meant that none of the chieftains would listen to his warnings, with the exception of one. As a result of Ner'zhul's anonymous advice, Durotan of the Frostwolf Clan refused to allow his clan to drink the blood of Mannoroth, and saved them from the worst of the corruption. Alas, Durotan and his mate Draka were the only people aware of Ner'zhul's actions- a secret that died with them years later. Today, no one has any idea that one of Equestria's greatest enemies saved the Minotaurs from complete and utter annihilation. Following the Horde's defeat in the Second War the Alliance pressed the Horde back to the Blasted Lands, ultimately destroying the portal. On the Draenor side Ner'zhul was caught in the blast and gravely wounded. For two years while he recovered the clans of Draenor fought amongst themselves until Teron Gorefiend devised a plan of opening new portals and finding fresh worlds for the Horde to conquer. Teron went to Ner'zhul and asked the old shaman to lead the Horde once again. Ner'zhul having since recovered, had isolated his clan in Shadowmoon Valley, where he began seeing visions of death (potentially a foreshadowing of his future fate). He painted his face with a white skull. When Gorefiend, a being of undeath, came to him, Ner'zhul was not surprised, and after some persuasion, agreed to Gorefiend's plan to open more portals. In order to fullfill the plan he sought out several artifacts from Azeroth: the Skull of Gul'dan, the Book of Medivh, the Jeweled Scepter of Sargeras, and the Eye of Dalaran. The first item he acquired, the Skull of Gul'dan, soon began to influence the old shaman. His wayward apprentice was speaking to Ner'zhul through his last remains. Ner'zhul became more and more concerned with his own power and wellbeing rather than that of the Horde. Upon retrieving all of these artifacts save the Skull, he attempted to open portals throughout Draenor. Feeling the surge of power that came with having control of Draenor's magic, Ner'zhul stopped caring about the welfare of the Horde, and thought only of harnessing his new powers. In his hubris, he ordered his followers through the portals, leaving behind the Horde. Obris, one of his servitors, protested at Ner'zhul's choice to abandon the rest of the Horde. In response, Ner'zhul blasted him aside; he no longer cared. Inundated with power he could only have dreamed of, Ner'zhul's greed overcame him. Whatever vestiges of honor and altruism still remained in him vanished as he and his followers went through the first portal, abandoning the rest of the Minotaur Horde to its fate. The vast energies that the spell created then tore the planet apart once Ner'zhul had fled, and the shattered realm of Outland was created. Upon entering one of the portals, Ner'zhul and his followers were immediately captured by Kil'jaeden. The Elder Shaman was torn apart, though his spirit was kept alive. Agreeing to enter into the service of the demon once more, Ner'zhul was bound to the Frozen Throne. His perception, mental powers, and magical abilities expanded tremendously. Thus the Lich King was born. As the Lich King, Ner'zhul would rule the Scourge alone until merging with Arthas Solar." The narrator stopped reading the first part as Charming Thunder was in complete awe, shock, and some other feelings.
"So...this ‘Kil’jaeden’ created the Lich King from the spirit of this ‘Ner’zhul’ and now, a Prophecy was waiting for Arthas to accept this power?" Charming Thunder asked.
"Yes," Danny replied. "I was quite shock myself when I found out that the Minotaurs were beings from another realm that found their way into Equestria. As for the survivors in the badland realm, let’s say that they didn’t survive after what had happened. Anyway; this is where our Cousin, Arthas, takes the stage." The book then went on to the next part titled "The Fall of Solar."
The book narrator continued, "roubles began to stir in Lordaeron. Minotaurs broke free of their internment camps, and there was distressing news of a plague that had gripped the northlands. Arthas and Uther were sent to Strahnbrad to defend the town from Minotaurish raids. The young prince defeated the black drake Searinox to retrieve its heart for the Griffin Feranor Steeltoe to forge into an orb of fire. Arthas used this magical item to kill the Blackrock Clan's blademaster leading the raids. However, a more vile threat arose in the form of the plague of undeath. Jaina and Captain Falric were sent to join Arthas, now 23 years old, in order to investigate the strange plague. They fought an undead army at a plague-infested granary. They encountered the necromancer Kel'Thuzad in the town of Brill and pursued him to Andorhal. Kel'Thuzad had already infected the stored grain in Andorhal and shipped it out to outlying villages. Before Arthas killed him, Kel'Thuzad spoke of Mal'Ganis, a Nathrezim demon who led the Scourge. Jaina and Arthas traveled north to confront him in Stratholme. Along the way, Arthas and Jaina stopped at Hearthglen Village where they hoped to rest. Instead, they were warned of an approaching army of undead. Arthas ordered Jaina to find Uther and seek his aid while he remained behind to defend the town. To his horror, Arthas discovered that the plague was not merely a means of mass murder, but rather, the means of turning innocent townsfolk into undead creatures. Arthas' forces barely held out and were on the verge of defeat when Uther arrived with reinforcements and saved the village. While traveling to Stratholme, Arthas was met by the enigmatic prophet Medivh. He gave him the same advice he gave Terenas — to travel west to Kalimdor-"
"Wait!" Charming Thunder interrupted. "Why travel to the Minotaur homeland?"
"You know, it’s rude to interrupt somepony who is reading," Danny said. "But back then, Kalimdor wasn’t the homeland of the Minotaur people. But that is another story. For now...continue, book."
The book narrator continued as requested, "Arthas argued that his place was with his people, and vowed that he would not abandon them. Jaina suggested that the prophet might be right, but Arthas paid her no heed and continued to Stratholme. When he arrived, Arthas found that the grain had already been distributed, and knew that the villagers would soon become undead zombies. He ordered Uther and his knights to purge the entire city. Horrified, Uther rebuked him by saying that he would not follow such an order even if Arthas were already king. Proclaiming that Uther had committed treason, Arthas disbanded the Knights of the Silver Hoof. Several of his soldiers left with Uther — as did Jaina — while those that remained loyal to Arthas joined him in slaughtering the corrupted townsfolk. As Arthas began to slay the citizens of Stratholme, he was met by Mal'Ganis himself, who was working to claim the souls of the townsfolk. Arthas worked to destroy them before Mal'Ganis could reach them. Finally, Arthas demanded a final showdown with the Dread Lord. Mal'Ganis slipped away, however, vowing to meet him in Northrend. Arthas then set fire to Stratholme. Something snapped in Arthas that day, his inability to stop the plague sent him down the cold lonely road he would soon follow. The fires burn to this day. Arthas followed Mal'Ganis with a detachment of his troops. They arrived a month later in Daggercap Bay. As they searched for a proper place to set up camp, Arthas' men came under gunfire before being recognized by the griffin explorers guild. Arthas was shocked to have come upon his good friend and former mentor, Muradin Bronzeclaw. At first, Muradin thought that Arthas was leading a rescue party sent to save his men, who had been besieged by the undead as they searched for the runeblade Frostmourne. Arthas admitted it was mere coincidence. Together they destroyed the nearby undead camp, but there was still no sign of Mal'Ganis. As Muradin and Arthas went to search for Frostmourne, an emissary from Lordaeron arrived in a zeppelin and spoke to Captain Luc Valonforth. He bore orders from Uther and Terenas, instructing Arthas and his men to return home. When Arthas returned to his base, the men had abandoned their posts, and were making their way through the forest towards their boats. Arthas had no intention of leaving before Mal'Ganis was destroyed. With the help of some indigenous mercenaries, he managed to reach and burn his boats before his men got to them. When his men arrived, Arthas betrayed his mercenaries, accusing them of destroying the ships, and the Captain had them killed, much to the disgust of Muradin. Arthas told his men that they had no means of going home, and the only way they were leaving Northrend was through victory. Arthas and his troops continued to press on to Drak'Tharon Keep in search of Frostmourne. As he arrived, Mal'Ganis appeared to him, and foretold his death. Arthas went to search for Frostmourne with Muradin, leaving his captain to defend the camp. Using an ancient waygate Arthas, Muradin, and a small group of men traveled to the vicinity of the fabled runeblade. Arthas was soon confronted by the Guardian, who tried to keep him from Frostmourne, apparently for his own protection. The Guardian fell, and Arthas and Muradin went forward to their prize. Muradin, reading an inscription, reported that the blade was cursed and pleaded "Oh, leave it be, Arthas! Forget this business and lead your men home!", but Arthas was adamant. Arthas asked the spirits of the cavern for the sword to be released from its icy prison, proclaiming that he would "give anything or pay any price, if only you will let me save my people." When the weapon broke free, Muradin was struck by a rogue shard of ice. Arthas moved to help Muradin, but was dissuaded by the call of Frostmourne in his mind. Arthas discarded his holy warhammer, Light's Vengeance, then picked Frostmourne up and returned to his base, leaving Muradin for dead. With Frostmourne in hand, Arthas defeated Mal'Ganis' minions and finally confronted the demon. Mal'Ganis told him that the voice he was now hearing was that of the Lich King. However, Arthas replied that voice was instructing him to destroy Mal'Ganis, much to the dreadlord's surprise. Slaying the dreadlord, Arthas fled into the frozen north, leaving his troops to fend for themselves. Arthas soon lost the last remnants of sanity. Arthas travelled back to Lordaeron months later for his just reward. The kingdom rejoiced at the return of its Prince and hero. Arthas knelt before the throne, then approached his father, King Terenas, and ran him through with Frostmourne, killing him and leaving Lordaeron to rot without a King. The king's bloodied, broken crown remains lost to this day. Arthas fled the scene. Weeks later, Arthas reappeared in Vandermar village at the bidding of his new master, the Lich King. There he met Tichondrius the Darkener, a dreadlord like Mal'Ganis. Thinking that the dreadlord was Mal'Ganis out for revenge, Arthas immediately threatened him, only to discover that this Dreadlord had come to congratulate Arthas for his efforts. When spoken to Arthas said he no longer felt remorse for any of his actions. Tichondrius explained that the sword was designed to steal souls, and that Arthas' own soul was the first one it had claimed. Arthas assembled the members of the vile Cult of the Damned that were hiding in Vandermar, and was aided by their magical abilities as he traveled to Andorhal where he was to recover Kel'Thuzad's corpse. Arthas killed the paladin guarding the crypt, Gavinrad the Dire, and recovered the remains of the necromancer. This brought Kel'Thuzad's ghost into being, and he secretly instructed Arthas not to trust the dreadlords. Arthas quietly contemplated this. Kel'Thuzad's remains were badly decomposed and needed to be taken to the mystical Sunwell in Quel'Thalas to be revived. Tichondrius sent Arthas to recover a mystical urn, which could be used to transport Kel'Thuzad's remains. However, the urn was in the keeping of the Knights of the Silver Hoof. Arthas killed two paladins, Ballador the Bright (who survived) and Sage Truthbearer, who both condemned Arthas' betrayal. He then faced Uther the Lightbringer, who explained that the urn held the ashes of his father, King Terenas. Arthas murdered his life-long mentor and seized the urn. Abandoning his father's remains, he replaced them with those of Kel'Thuzad, and then began the long journey to Quel'Thalas. Arthas met heavy resistance from the snakeponies, rallied by Ranger-General Sylvanas Windrunner. Driving their forces before his undead army, he steadily pushed her people back in a swath of destruction towards Silvermoon. Sylvanas tried to warn the vast snakepony capital of the coming of the Scourge, but Arthas destroyed her camps and killed the Ranger-General. To make her pay for her perceived insolence towards him, Arthas corrupted her snakepony spirit, transforming it into a horrendous twisted form (a banshee) and enslaving her to the will of the Lich King, forcing her to slay her own people. Arthas, along with the marching armies of the Scourge annihilated Silvermoon, leaving it in ruins. On the road to the Sunwell, he faced Anasterian Sunstrider, the aged High King of Quel'Thalas, and killed him with minimal struggle. Arthas then used the Sunwell to bring Kel'Thuzad back to life, reborn as an undead lich. As the pair travelled to Alterac, Kel'Thuzad explained the full extent of the "Second Invasion" and the plans of the Lich King and the Scourge. Kel'Thuzad was in Alterac to destroy a camp of Blackrock Clan orcs who had taken control of a demon gate, which the lich would use to speak to the demon lord Archimonde. The Scourge destroyed the minotaurs, and after Kel'Thuzad received orders from Archimonde, they set out for the powerful seat of the world's mages, the city of Dalaran. Archimonde instructed them to acquire the spellbook of Medivh, which would allow Kel'Thuzad to summon Archimonde into Equus. Despite the Kirin Tor's valiant efforts to repel the invasion, the Scourge fought through their magical defenses and fortifications, killed the Archmage Antonidas and claimed the Book of Medivh. Arthas and his troops repelled the mages' vast counterattack as Kel'Thuzad began the lengthy summoning of the demon lord. Once Archimonde arrived, he proclaimed that the Lich King was of no further use to the Legion, and Tichondrius was placed in command of the Scourge. Arthas was left to wonder what would become of him and Kel'Thuzad, but the lich replied that all was going as the Lich King foresaw. The pair disappeared as Archimonde took his revenge on the city, destroying Dalaran with a single powerful ritual. Arthas was next seen several months later in Kalimdor, where Tichondrius was employing the arcane power of the Skull of Gul'dan. Arthas told the recently freed demon hunter Illidan how to claim the skull's powers as his own, whereupon he could destroy Tichondrius. Illidan agreed to his plan, and Arthas disappeared again. As for Illidan, he defeated Tichondrius and took the power. He tried to become leader of the Naga (Betrayers of the Snakepony race) but he was killed by the very Warden who kept Illidan in a cage. Archimonde left a trio of dreadlords behind in the ruined palace gardens of Lordaeron to ensure that the nation remained under control, and to watch over the cunning servitors of Ner'zhul. When the demon lord was defeated, however, they were not originally aware of it. This changed several months later, when Arthas returned to reclaim his throne. He threatened the dreadlords, who immediately fled, and then called Sylvanas (Who had reacquired her new dark snakepony body) and Kel'Thuzad to his side. Together they crushed the remaining human refugees in the area, who were led by the paladins Dagren the Minotaurslayer, Halahk the Lifebringer and Magroth the Defender. However, during the climax of the battle, Arthas had a painful seizure, and felt the Lich King calling out to him. Despite his diminished powers, Arthas fought on until all the remaining humans were killed. Little did Arthas know that the Lich King's power had dwindled to the point that Sylvanas was no longer under his control. In secret, she attended a meeting with the three dreadlords, who told her that the Lich King's power was waning, and so the time had come to claim her vengeance. Arthas was ambushed in the capital city, and was forced to collect what loyalists he could find and fight his way through the dreadlords' forces, which included the powerful abomination Bloodfeast. As he arrived on the city's limits, he was saved by a cadre of banshees, who told him that Sylvanas had sent them to see him safely away. However, as they neared an empty spot in the forest, Arthas received another vision from the Lich King, who told him he'd been betrayed. Sylvanas then appeared and shot him with a paralyzing arrow. Kel'Thuzad stepped in and chased her off at the last moment. But the Lich King's mental cries pierced Arthas' mind - he was told to return to Northrend, for holy forces (later revealed to be Celestia and the remnant Snakeponies, Vamponies, and Equestrians) were working to destroy the Frozen Throne and end the self-proclaimed king's reign. Immediately, Arthas prepared his fleet and set sail for Northrend, leaving Kel'Thuzad behind to watch over Lordaeron. Three weeks later, Arthas landed upon the familiar coast of Northrend, and unexpectedly found himself being attacked by Vamponies led by Kael'thas, hungry for vengeance at their ally kingdom's (The Snakepony Capital) destruction. Arthas was unexpectedly saved by a large Crypt lord who introduced himself as Anub'arak, the former king of Azjol-Nerub. Kael'thas warned that though the preliminary scouting force may have fallen, their main army would not be so easily defeated, before teleporting away to safety. Arthas worried that he may be right, and that they would never reach Icecrown Citadel before Celestia, but Anub'arak thought differently. He suggested that they delve into the shattered kingdom of Azjol-Nerub, using the underground passageways to beat Celestia to the Glacier. Seeing little other choice, Arthas agreed. Anub'arak suggested raiding the hoard of Sapphiron, an ancient blue dragon and servant of Malygos, and equipping themselves with the dragon's treasures. Not only did they slay the dragon, but Arthas used what power he had left to raise Sapphiron into a powerful frost wyrm." Danny saw the picture of Sapphiron and gasped.
"I’ve seen that dragon in my vision when Arthas returned!" Danny said. "He brought that undead dragon back to life!"
"Why do I get the feeling that Sapphiron is Arthas’ pet?" Charming Thunder shivered. Danny shivered as well for the thought.
The book narrator continued, "When he came to the doors of Azjol-Nerub, Arthas found himself being fired upon by griffins, who revealed themselves to be followers of Muradin who had remained there when their leader appeared to die. Now, they were led by Muradin's underling, Baelgun Flameclaw. Leaving Sapphiron outside, Arthas battled through not only Baelgun's griffins, but also the nerubian survivors, as he delved into the broken Spider Kingdom. Anub'arak's aid was invaluable, as he circumvented many traps which would have cut Arthas' stay fatally short. As Arthas Faced Baelgun, the griffin warned that the shifting earth had released an ancient evil from below the kingdom. As Arthas and Anub'arak delved deeper into the kingdom, that evil became apparent - the Faceless Ones, a powerful, vicious race thought only to exist in legend. Arthas and Anub'arak even managed to defeat the incredibly powerful Forgotten one. As they made their way to the Upper Kingdom, an earthquake collapsed part of the passage they were in, separating Anub'arak from Arthas. The young king had to rely upon his wits to see himself through several daunting booby traps before Anub'arak dug his way to Arthas. Once reunited the Crypt lord complimented the young Death Knight, saying he now understood why Ner'zhul had chosen him as his champion. As they climbed out of Azjol-Nerub, the Lich King contacted Arthas once again, and explained that he was losing his power, because the Frozen Throne had been cracked, and energy was seeping from it. Ner'zhul replenished Arthas' powers, knowing he would need them in the coming battle. When they finally reached the surface, they immediately had to contend with Celestia's forces. Vashj's snakeponies and Kael's Vamponies were there to contest Arthas' minions at every turn. Arthas, with Anub'arak's help, battled his way through their forces and magically activated the four Icecrown Obelisks around the glacier, opening the doors to the Frozen Throne. However, Celestia was waiting for him. After a short but intense battle, Celestia inadvertently left herself open and Arthas took advantage of it, slicing open the alicorn's chest with Frostmourne. Celestia collapsed in the snow, as Arthas turned towards the doors of Icecrown. Before he walked away, Arthas warned Celestia to leave the Frozen Throne and never return. Celestia managed to heal herself and began to weep at the darkness within her son and immediately left without her remaining forces, due to them being slaughtered to the end by the Scourge. Arthas entered the hollow glacier and beheld a winding pinnacle chained to the ice. As he strode up the stairs towards his destiny, the voices of those he had forsaken flooded through his mind. He heard Muradin Bronzeclaw, Uther, and Jaina calling out to him, yet he ignored them, continuing his ascent. Finally, he reached the pinnacle and before him he saw an icy cask. Inside was a suit of armor, arranged as if seated on a massive throne. Now only one voice spoke to him - the rasping whisper of Ner’zhul: 'Return the blade...complete the circle...release me from this prison!' With a great cry of strength, Arthas brought Frostmourne to bear against the Lich King's icy prison and with a haunting scream, the Frozen Throne exploded, and shards of the crystal scattered on the ground. With Ner’zhul’s thorny helm at his feet, Arthas leaned forward, picked it up, and placed the unimaginably powerful artifact on his head. 'Now,' Ner'zhul's voice echoed within his mind, 'we are one!' In that moment, Ner'zhul and Arthas' spirits fused into a single mighty being, just as the Lich King had always planned. Arthas as a single being ceased to exist, now one half of one of the most powerful entities Equus had ever known, the new Lich King. While he dreamed, Arthas banished his ponity and suppressed Ner'zhul's spirit, allowing him to become the dominant personality of the Lich King." Danny flipped the page to the third part which was currently a work in progress. He then closed the book and looked at Charming Thunder who was awestruck by the tale of the Lich King.
"Now you know everything about the Lich King," Danny said.
"I...I never imagined," Charming Thunder said, still awestruck.
"Indeed. But now, you must go and save our cousin. Hopefully, he will come back to his senses when he losses Frostmourne." harming nodded and began to rush out of the Chronicler’s Lair as Danny smiled. Tomorrow, Charming Thunder will lead the assault against the Scourge with his army while Danny leads his Vampony Army to Tartarus against Havoc.
Equestria Wars Episode XII: Return of the Scourge
Chapter 9: The Battle of Icecrown Citadel
Charming Thunder sat in his quarters while his troops made preparations for the march to take on Arthas. A hologram of Captain Lunar appeared and reported, "Your highness, I am pleased to report that the army is ready for the march."
"Very good, captain," Charming Thunder replied. "Have the troops ready and prep Scorponok for the march as well."
"Right away." The hologram faded as Charming Thunder turned away and walked up to his desk with the holo disk that Danny gave him. He looked at it a little bit and wondered why Danny gave it him. He decided to put the disk in and pressed a button to play it and revealed a recording of Twilight Sparkle.
"When I married Charming, I felt so ready for anything but there were times when I felt like I was holding him back," Twilight said as Charming Thunder listened. "I felt like I was always the damsel in need for his help and there was nothing I could do to help him. To be perfectly honest...I felt weak and pathetic to help Charming." Charming Thunder was shocked at what he just heard and drooped his head. "But..." Charming Thunder looked back up to see Twilight smiling. "When I became a Vampony Lord by complete accident, I began to think that it was destiny was granting my long waited wish to actually grow strong and powerful. So strong and powerful that I could protect and help Charming in his battles." The recording ended as Charming Thunder wiped a tear off of his face as he smiled. He then took the disc out and got up to leave his quarters to join up with the rest of his troops and march to Arthas.
AT-ST walkers followed behind the marching army of snowtroopers with Charming Thunder, Skorponok, and Captain Lunar up front. They approached Northrend as a squad of troops sweep the area for any Scourge forces. An archer popped out of the rooftop of a building and fired at the squad. The rest of the troops aimed their blasters at the archers and shot it down and a group of Scourge soldiers suddenly appeared and charged towards the troops. They fired their blasters at the approaching soldiers while the AT-STs and Skorponok gave them some support. Skorponok fired his missiles at the other archers that were up top on the building then swiped his tail at the approaching Scourge troops. A Crypt Fiend approached Charming Thunder while his blade was ignited. When he was going for the strike at the spider, a random arrow shot out of nowhere and hits the fiend. Mysterious fighters came out of nowhere and chopped the Scourge forces down to size as the rest of the undead forces began to retreat, but was stopped by Skorponok who bursts out of the ground. The snowtroopers continued to sweep the area for remaining forces. The leader of the mysterious attackers walked up towards Charming Thunder as he said, "Looked like you needed help."
"And I am thankful for that," Charming Thunder replied. "Who are you guys?"
"I am the leader of the Ravagers. Some of my men are members of the Order of the Celestial Lights. We managed to separate from the Lich King's will."
"I thank you for the help."
"It was my pleasure. Be careful when you fight against the Scourge." The leader then walked away while Captain Lunar approached Charming Thunder.
"Orders, sir?" Lunar asked.
"Contact Princess Cadence and inform her that we encountered resistance an we are continuing to march to the Icecrown Citadel."
"Right away." Lunar walked away to get to communication range to do what Charming Thunder ordered.
A few hours later, Skorponok patrolled the area then stopped as he received a message from Danny. When the message ended, he burrowed underground as Charming Thunder watched.
"Where is he going in a hurry?"
Charming Thunder and his army continued to press through the town to approach the Icecrown Citadel. They were stopped when they see an undead army led by Kel’thuzad blocked their path. "My master Arthas, the Lich King bids thee welcome, Charming Thunder," he said as Charming Thunder approached.
"We seek to see your master," Charming Thunder demanded. "You and your forces must surrender at once or you will face the consequences." Kel'thuzad laughed at the demand. Soundwave who was in his vehicle form approached the legion. When they heard his engines, they looked and see him approaching. When he was halfway there, he transformed and landed next to Charming Thunder.
"A machine? What makes this one change this battle."
"Decepticons Superior, Scourge Inferior," Soundwave ordered. Charming Thunder thought that he never talks until now. Everyone began to hear gunfire and red laser blasts being shot down at the Scourge. They all looked and see the Nemesis coming out of the clouds. But when he began to make a pass, four figures jumped off the takeoff deck. It was none other than Danny, Rainbow, Trixie, and Sonata on their Extreme Gear. As they flew down, they did some stunts along the way down without falling off and as they arrived, their Extreme Gear began to go up and began to fly above the ground. They dashed towards Charming Thunder smirking at the success of this new toy. They got off their boards and Danny looked at Charming Thunder, who was in awe and shocked.
"H-How are you-" Charming Thunder asked.
"We killed Havoc the same day you left the Crystal Empire to travel here in Northrend," Danny explained. "Twilight and the Vamponies took a shortcut to Icecrown Citadel, the same way Arthas took to meet against the Alliance led by Celestia 800 years ago. Scorponok just needed to make the tunnel due to the fact it collapsed."
"That explains where he went off to then." Danny turned to Kel’thuzad and his undead legion. The Nemesis began to fly above them with its guns aiming at the Scourge."
"Kel’thuzad; Advisor to Lich King Arthas and leader of the Necromancer faction of the Scourge, if you surrender and take us to Arthas without any trouble, we won’t have to worry about your demise."
"Ah, Danny Eclipse; Son of Princess Luna and King Sombra, Guardian of the Dark Side, Former Leader of the Phantom Consortium, Current leader of Team Insanity, Leader of the Vampony Empire, Slayer of Havoc, Aspect of Insanity and Knowledge, Champion of Unicron the Destroyer, and King of the Ghost Realm," Kel’thuzad replied. "You are well known here; Danny Eclipse. A true son to the Dark Lord; that is for certain."
"What are you talking about? Mephiles is the Dark Lord."
"True; but he had TWO apprentices. Mephiles was Kil'jaeden’s master; thus it was originally Mephiles who created the Lich King. It was a shame that Mephiles killed Kil’jaeden after the failure of the Burning Legion."
"I heard about that."
"Tell me then; what about you?"
"What do you mean?"
"I’m a Lich, one of many masters of dark magic. And I can sense tons of dark magic in your body. If anything, you are the pure essences of evil."
"What are you implying?" Before Kel’thuzad could reply, Scorponok arrived from underground and they see the Combaticons approaching. o follow them was the Vampony Empire.
"I have overstayed my welcome here. Minions, kill them." The Scourge army charged at the army. Kel’thuzad casted a teleportation spell and teleported himself away from the battlefield.
"Combaticons; transform and combine into Bruticus!" Onslaught and his combaticons complied and formed into Bruticus.
"Bruticus online!" Bruticus shouted.
"Bruticus, clear these undead out!"
"Roger that!" Bruticus moved the helicopter part and began to use the part as a shield and he began to walk forward. The mindless undead charged right into it, only to get destroyed into a million pieces. When the wave finally ended, Bruticus lowered the helicopter part and looked at Danny. He looked towards Charming Thunder, who was thinking about what Kel’thuzad was hinting about.
"Charming?" Charming Thunder looked at Danny and smiled.
"We were attacking the Wraithgate when Kel’thuzad confronted us," Charming Thunder explained.
"Alright, we need to head to the Wraithgate and continue the attack." Charming Thunder nodded and they began to head towards Wraithgate.
When Charming Thunder and the others arrive at the Wraithgate, Danny ordered Bruticus to break open the gate and he did it without much trouble. When he finished, Bruticus transformed back into the Combaticons. Charming Thunder, Danny, Twilight, Rainbow, Sonata, Trixie, Sunset, and Applejack went inside. Soundwave and the Combaticons stayed outside to hold off the undead army that was approaching and they had Trypticon so they had the advantage. They then arrived inside and began to arrive on the top level, where the frozen throne was located. When the group arrived, they see ee the Lich King on his throne. Kel’thuzad was to his right, Anub'rekhan. In front of the throne, at the bottom steps, were three Death Knights and one Dreadlord. Danny gasped at the sight of the Dreadlord. "Well, well, well," Fearoth greeted. "If it isn’t the heroes of Equestria. Come to save your cousin, Danny and Charming?"
"Yes," Charming Thunder replied.
"Too bad, you will need to get through us first!" Charming Thunder and the others charged at the Death Knights and Fearoth. The Death Knights pulled out their runeblades and clashed blades with Twilight, Trixie, and Sonata. They were at a stalemate. While they were at it, Charming Thunder, Danny, Sunset, and Applejack went past them. Fearoth tried to attack them, but Danny fired a ghost ray at him, causing him to go back.
"Arthas, Son of Celestia,” Charming Thunder began. Undead Ghouls began to approach them from behind. Sunset and Applejack turned to them and began to fight them to hold them off. "Too long have you sat on that throne." Fearoth tried to get up and run but he was stopped by Danny's clone that he sent to hold him down. "Ner'zhul." Arthas looked towards Charming Thunder, recognizing the name easily. "I release you, great spirit." Charming Thunder went to extend his horn to Arthas’ head, but he only chuckled. Charming Thunder pulled back when he heard it, seeing that Arthas was holding Frostmourne in his hoof.
"You have no power here, Charming Thunder." Arthur said. Charming Thunder's magic began to grow, consuming his entire being. This caused Arthas to be pushed back, deep into his throne. He lost his grip on Frostmourne.
"I will draw you out Ner’zhul like poison from a wound." Charming Thunder began to approach slowly again, his horn flaring with magic. This action made Arthas pushed back again.
"If I go, Arthas dies." Charming Thunder pushed again, making the Lich King pushed back into his throne.
"You will not kill me, you will not kill him." The Lich King pushes slightly to lift his head.
"The Scourge is mine." Charming Thunder pushes Arthas again with his magic.
"Begone!" Arthas tried to lunge at Charming, but he hit his horn and began to glow. Suddenly, Ner'zhul’s spirit was launched out of Arthas. Acting quickly, Danny pulled out a thermos and made Ner’zhul’s spirit go inside the thermos and put the cap on it. They all look to see Arthas' coat began to change from bone white back to golden color. They looked as Frotstmourne no longer whispering dark whispers. A flashing sound was heard and they turned to Celestia and Luna. The fight against the three death knights ended when Ner’zhul’s spirit left Arthas. Celestia came to Arthas’ side as he began to regain color and returned to his young self. When it finished, Arthas looked at Celestia and hugged her. They both were crying tears.
"Mother? Is it really you? After so many years of being in darkness, your presence is like a light in the night sky." Before anything could be said, everyone heard a grunt and looked to see Fearoth getting up from beating Danny's clone off guard. They began to approach him and Fearoth began to chuckle.
"Well, looks like you win yet again," Fearoth said.
"Who are you really?" Danny asked.
"Why I am the one who have started this. My henchman was the one who freed the Lich King and Havoc."
"Why though!?" Charming Thunder demanded.
"Tell me this, Danny. Did you ever wonder why you were so powerful in the dark side?" The question caught everyone off guard.
"What do you mean?" Danny asked.
"I mean; how would it possible if Luna was pregnant and gave birth to you and Sombra happens to be your father while Charming is born the exact same time, day, year as you were. Didn’t you ever wonder about that?" Danny began to think about it and realized that he was right.
"I’ve thought about it but I thought it was just Celestia and Luna covering their tracks." Fearoth chuckled before bursting into laughter. He then looked at Luna, smirking.
"You mean to tell me that he doesn’t know?"
"What don’t I know!?" Fearoth turned to Danny and Charming Thunder.
"Luna and Sombra aren’t your real parents. They mixed their DNA within you by using a Genetic Spell to hide the TRUE identity of your mother and father, because they feared you would turn on them." That got Charming Thunder and Danny to look at Fearoth with disbelief.
"You're lying."
"Am I? Why not tell that to her." Fearoth pointed to his left, which was their right and they see a black black smoke cloud forming. Suddenly, a female hedgehog came out of the smoke. She had black fur and had teal streaks. Her eyes were neon green with slit pupils. She wore a crown on her head, which was black and had green jewels on it.
"D-Danny?" the female hedgehog asked with uncertainty. Her voice rang in Danny's head like he has heard her voice before. Things then became clear to him now. It was Mana, her true mother. He began to cry before he rushed over to Mana and give her a hug. She was also crying as she hugged him with joy and happiness. There were some ‘aws’ from all around. Fearoth took his chance and disappeared into the shadows. Charming Thunder looked at Danny and the hedgehog as Celestia and Luna looked at each other before nodded, knowing they will accept what fate had just happened.
"Come now, let’s go home," Luna said. "We can talk when we get back." Mana looked at Luna and Celestia with fear. But they welcomed her with open hooves and they began to walk away, heading back to the Crystal Empire.
Equestria Wars Episode XII: Return of the Scourge
Chapter 10: Danny Eclipse's True Nature
It was the first time for Mana, Luna, Celestia, Arthas, Charming Thunder, and Twilight to be on the Nemesis' bridge. They were admiring the work of the ship and the Nemesis was heading towards to the Crystal Empire. The arrival time will be about an hour or two due to harsh weather, which Danny didn't mind. He turned to the others who were talking to each other. Charming Thunder was talking to Twilight about something as Danny began to walk to them and went to Rainbow, Sonata, and Trixie. "I can’t believe that we can give the power of Cybertronian transformation to other ponies," Charming Thunder said.
"I did it to only to my mates because I trust them with my life," Danny said.
"You were right in your choice," Celestia said.
"Thank you, Aunt Celestia." Danny looked at Mana. "But I have some questions." She nodded knowing what he was thinking about.
"Let me start how I was created," Mana said.
"Wait, created?"
"Yes. You see; your father is the original mobian here in Equestria, he was lonely and wanted another of his kind here. So, he created me with the dark magic with King Sombra and a little from Luna in her jealousy. When I was created, we started like friends and then… it happened. When we had you, Mephiles heard that his apprentice; Sombra, had a child at the same time as we had you. So, your father looked deep into it and then he say a prophecy."
"Prophecy?" Luna asked.
"Yes. It was known as ‘The Prophecy of Light and Shadow’. It tells that the son of Sombra will bring light into the world while the son of Mephiles would bring in the darkness. Originally, Charming represents that light while Danny represents that darkness. That is why they became-"
"Guardians of the Light and Dark Side," Danny finished. Mana nodded and Charming Thunder began to think about it.
"How odd," Charming Thunder said.
"Anyway, that was when the world began to have Aspects," Mana continued. "Mephiles became the Aspect of Darkness, Celestia became the Aspect of the Day while Luna became the Aspect of the Night. Celestia and Luna, hearing that Mephiles was spreading his dark nature into the world, tried to kill him. But due to him being able to control the darkness around him, he was almost impossible to defeat. So, they used the Elements of Harmony on him, weakening him to the point where he could have lost his mobian form. Celestia and Luna could have finished him there but they, too, were too weak to finish him off. So, they sent him into Tartarus in Equus’ most powerful chains to remain in Tartarus forever. However, Mephiles swore he will return to bring Celestia and Luna to their end. By the time they return to rest easy, that was when they received you from me. I sealed your memories and powers to keep you safe."
"Wait, how am I a pony if I was born from two mobians?" Danny asked.
"Due to me being created from the dark magic of Sombra and Luna; it would be reason that you would be born as a pony. You were an alicorn too, so Celestia and Luna couldn’t hurt you. But to make your disguise good, I used my powers to withdraw your alicorn form into your mind and locked it away and made you look like a Pegasus. Luna loved you the moment she got you and adopted you. So; to hide who you truly were, Luna and Sombra used a genetic spell on you to hide your true appearance. But Luna, while I was created with some of her dark magic, was your blood mother so you are still related to Luna and Sombra."
"So I am still related to Charming?" Mana nodded. Danny sighed with relaxation.
"Anyway; every year, around Hearth’s Warming Day, I would send you presents."
"That explains why I got so many presents from an unknown person."
"So it was YOU who sent those presents," Luna added. "I was wondering why Danny was getting so many presents."
"But how was I still getting them from Clockwork?"
"Oh, Clockwork talked to me first before going to Celestia," Mana explained. "I approved of you going to train as long as I could still send you those presents and know you have been. When I got the picture of your new appearance, it took me a bit to adjust to the new you. Clockwork told me that when Dan Phantom had awoken your time powers that Mephiles had, I was the one who told him to get you to learn how to use it. Because I knew someday...you would have to defeat your father in combat."
"What do you mean?"
"Danny, you’re father became corrupted shortly after he became the true Aspect of Darkness. Now; when you unlock your true Aspect power, you will; if not be better, be able to fight your father."
"Was there ever a time when he was… not evil?" Mana smiled and hugged Danny.
"Yes. Before he became an Aspect; he created me and he was so kind and nice. He was even romantic with me and respected everyone who didn’t judge us. Mephiles never showed any hints of being evil, just pure love and harmony. And when we had you; he was never angry or upset. No, he was prepared for this and he helped me. Even now; I still sense the good in him. Even if he is truly corrupted, I know he will forever love me, even in the darkest of times. And when I am at the brink of being killed, I know he will be there to save me and protect me from all danger."
"I doubt he will be able to come and save you while he is in the pits of Tartarus," Celestia said.
"There is nothing he won’t do to get freed and come to save me and Danny with his love for us." Danny hugged Mana again then sat down. A little while later, he looked at Charming Thunder.
"I think it is time we unlocked our Aspect powers," Danny said.
"Are-are you sure?" Charming Thunder asked nervously. "We don’t know what will happen."
"We have completed the other two trials without even knowing it. We should at least complete the third and final trial." Charming Thunder thought about it before he nodded.
"When do we do it?"
"A week from now, in Ponyville." Everyone nodded and cheered along with Danny and Charming Thunder.
THE END
