The Elements of Nature Book 3 - 气 (Air)

Chapters

Chapter 1, The Awakening
Chapter 3, The Library
Chapter 4, The Avatar and the Fire Lord
Chapter 5, Hunted
Chapter 6, The Firebending Masters
Chapter 7, The Boiling Rock
Chapter 8, Unexpected Arrival
Chapter 9, The Tengen Gate
Chapter 10, Boxed In
Chapter 11, Broken Dreams
Chapter 12, The Ultimate Duel
Chapter 13, The Puppetmaster
Chapter 14, Sozin's Comet Part 1: The Phoenix King
Chapter 15, Sozin's Comet Part 2: The Old Masters
Chapter 16, Sozin's Comet Part 3: Into the Inferno
Chapter 17, Sozin's Comet Part 4: Avatar Firebrand
Chapter 18, The Grand Galloping Galla 2
Chapter 19, Time Lapse
Chapter 20, Twins
Chapter 2, The X-Factor

Chapter 1, The Awakening

The Elements of Nature
Book 3: 气 (Air)
Chapter 1, The Awakening

Fire’ sat up suddenly, gasping and panting heavily, looking around. He wasn't at the catacombs anymore, he was in ... "Twilight's library ..." he muttered. He looked around and noticed a night stand to his left, on which was a copy of 'Lost Spells of Star Swirl the Bearded.' He also notice a few pictures of him, Agua, Blitz, and Terra with a few ponies he didn't recognize. One was an earth pony with a brown coat, a silver mane that is spike, but the spikes are all going back, along with his tail. His eyes are purple while his snout is also silver.

Another was a dark blue Pegasus with a circular shield that had a white star in the middle, surround by red, white and blue circles. Another earth pony had a high-tech red suite on, with a glowing chest pice. He also saw a picture of him and Twilight on a beach with two alicorns, one a colt with an orange mane, a light red coat and charcoal black eyes. The other alicorn was a filly with a purple mane, a coat the same color as Twilight's, and turquoise eyes. Both the alicorns were around the same age as Scootaloo in the picture. He then realized he's in Twilight's bedroom, and next to him on his right was Twilight Sparkle. “ARGGH!" He leaped up in shock, banging his head on floor when falling back down.

Twilight yawned and rolled over to look at him, smiling. "Hey, Hun." She chuckled as he rubbed his head, growling in pain. "You okay there?"

"Twilight!" He edged away from her a bit. “I ... I didn't ... Oh crap, um ... I'm ... sorry?" Twilight reached over and rubbed his muzzle seductively.

"For what, Fire’? I wasn't complaining..."

Firebrand edged away a little more, stammering. "The ... the battle? What happened with Ba Sing Se? And ... and how did I end up here?" He gulped as he awaited her response.

Instead, she sat up and looked at him in a confused way. "Ba Sing Se? Oh..." She sighed and shook her head. “Were you having nightmares about the Battle of Ba Sing Se again?"

"The Battle of ... what now? It already has a name?" Fire’ then scratched his chin with his hoof. “That was quick..."

Twilight looked at him like he was crazy. "Dear, the battle happened 4 years ago..."

"4 years!" He hopped out of her bad and looked himself over. “No wounds..." He started shaking. “And ... and am I taller? And is this a..." He scratched a small patch of facial hair growing below his chin. “A goatee!?"

“Hun, you're hallucinating..." Twilight said, getting up as well. She looked older as well, a little taller, her horn longer, and her mane more flowing. “We'll get you to the hospital, you're sweating up a storm there..."

“No..." Fire’ raised a hoof. "Stand ... stand back, Twilight Sparkle. This can't happen..."

Twilight shook her head, "I don't know what you're talking about dear ... And keep your voice down ... You'll wake up the kids..."

"K-K-KIDS?" Fire’ shouted in exasperation.

At this point, the alicorns from the picture came in, only they were 15-17 years old and had cutie marks. The filly said, ‘Morning Dad’ while the colt said, ‘Morning Pops’. Fire’ then falls to his knees and screams.

==================================================================

Fire’ began to hear a slight beeping noise, like a hospital heart monitor. "He's waking up ... His vitals are all back, Doctor Carousel..." He heard a female voice say.

“Good..." The voice of the doctor responded. "The medicine I gave him seems to finally be kicking in..."

“The medicine doesn't work as well as the spirit water.” Fire’ recognized the voice as belonging to Agua. He then opened his eyes and sees that he’s in a recovery room in Canterlot.

“Ugh. What happened?”

“You were killed by Azula.” Twilight said to him, she was right next to him, holding his hoof. “But Agua used the spirit water to bring you back.”

“Oh, is that all?” He tried to get up, but he then feels a sharp pain in his head and stops.

“Try not to move, son.” Doctor Carousel said to him.

“How long have I’ve been out?”

“About a year.”

“A year! Great, then that means Geo Firma is...”

“Gone.” Celestia said as she walked in the room.

“Where are the others?”

“There somewhere in the city.” Luna said as she walked in with Celestia. “After we got back, we had a mass evacuation of all neighboring towns, including Ponyville, the only exceptions are Manehattan & Fillydelphia, where we sent combat unites, to Canterlot because of Discord’s escape.”

“Discord escaped!”

“Yeah. Deker told us this before we left Ba Sing Se.” Cadence said.

“Deker also gave us this vile of blue liquid full of nano-machines called nanites. We left it, because we figured it was supposed to turn you into a changeling.” Shining finished.

“Yeah.” Twilight chuckled.

“After what happened at Ba Sing Se, we had to get you to safety. On our way out, the King decided he wanted to travel the world in disguise, so we set off alone. Well, not completely alone, he took his bear.” Celestia said to him.

“I also like your long mane.” Twilight said to Fire.’

“Say what!?” Fire’ then looks in the mirror and sees that his mane and tail are now as long as Celestia’s. “You gotta be kidding me.”

“Alright everypony, Fire’ needs his rest.” The doctor said as they all leave.

“I’ll have Rarity cut your mane and tail when your all better.” Twilight said as she leaves with the others.

“Huh. Looks like its me and this long mane for a while.” Fire’ said as he went back to sleep.

==================================================================

In the hive of the changelings, Queen Chrysalis and Discord are in separate locked rooms, absorbing all the power from the coming Sozin’s Comet. “The power. The power!” Chrysalis said as she is encased by a red glow.

“Ooh-ah-ooh. I’m sure glade those two decided to lock themselves up during this power surge from the comet.”

“Tell me about it.” Hexe said as she strums her harmonium. “At least the Fire Avatar is now dead.”

“I’m not so sure. I’ve been watching the Equestrians and I think they have the Fire Avatar in a hospital.”

“Then why don’t you just go there and see for yourself if he's still alive.”

“All right, I’ll do it.” Medizinisch then leaves for Canterlot.

==================================================================

On a ship heading for the Fire Nation, Zuko is standing bow, when Mai walks up to him. “Aren't you cold?” She asked.

“I've got a lot on my mind. It's been so long, over 16 years since I was home. I wonder what's changed. I wonder how I've changed.”

Mai then yawns. “I just asked if you were cold, I didn't ask for your whole life story.” Mai then takes Zuko’s hoof. “Stop worrying.” She said. The two then kiss.

==================================================================

At Canterlot, after dark, an Earth Pony stallion with a red mane and a yellow coat with a sword for a cutie mark is running throw the alleyways. “There he is!” A Pegasus guard said as the stallion named Mcallen continues to run. Some laser blast try to hit him, but he doges them. He ducks behind a corner and opens his saddle bag. He reaches inside and pulls out a vile that's like the one Deker gave to the team, only with the nanites glowing yellow instead of blue inside and being far more concentrated of the one Twilight has. He looks around the corner and sees some guards.

“Bridge out! Under no conditions is he allowed to escape with those nanites.” One of the guards said. One of the guards goes right to the corner, but he doesn't see Mcallen run down the alleyway. He turns the corner and barley hits Mallen.

“These guys are not real Royal Guards. A bunch of ammeters.” Mcallen said as he reaches a dead-end.

“This is Captain Lance of the Royal Guard! Surrender now or we will bring you down!” A Pegasus said on top of the wall.

“Real Royal Guards never surrender.” Mcallen said as he turned around and runs again. Some of the Unicorns with Lance fire some lasers, but Mcallen doges them all. Mcallen then comes across another dead-end. “I’ll tear you all to pieces! Every last one of you!” He said to himself. “Lets see Shining Armor say I’m not fit to serve now.” Mallen said as he injects himself with the serum.

He opens his eyes as they turn from green to blood-red as the whites of them turn black. He then groans and gets on his knees in pain. Then a black substance exits his mouth. He then screams in pain. “OK boys.” Lance said to some earth pony guards carrying swords. “It’s capture and contain. If he fights, you know what to do. The Doc wants his ‘nanites’ back.” The guards go down the alleyway and see that the black substance Mallen regurgitated has completely encased him in a black octopus like sphere.

“We lost Mcallen.” One of the guards said on a communicator as some unicorns arrive.

“Where is he?”

“What is that?” One of the guards said, pointing to the cocoon. The cocoon then moves and busts open, with Mallen emerging, but he's different. He lost both his mane and coat, replaced by green skin. He's also able to stand on two legs now. When he turns around, he has a terrifying grin on his face. His front hoofs also have black claws on them that function like fingers. “What is that thing?!” The guard said as the unicorns fire, but Mallen jumps over the blasts and attacks, and when some hit him, he doesn't show any sing of slowing down. Mcallen grabs the neck of a unicorn and snaps it. He does the same with other guards. He then cuts the neck of an earth pony with his new claws.

“Stone Wall! Arrow Head! Anypony, respond!” Lance said on the communicator, getting nothing but static.

==================================================================

At the Fire Nation’s capital, Li and Lo are talking about the return of Zuko to a crowd. (key: Li italics, Lo bold, both italics and bold) “Your Princess Azula, clever and beautiful, disguised herself as the enemy and entered the Geo Firma Capital. In Ba Sing Se, she found her brother Zuko, and together they faced the Avatars...”

“And the Avatar of Fire fell! And Geo Firma fell!”

“Azula's agents quickly overtook the entire city. They went to Ba Sing Se's great walls...”

“And brought them down!”

“The armies of the Fire Nation surged through the walls, swarmed over Ba Sing Se, securing our victory."

“Now the heroes have returned home!”

“Your princess, Azula...”

“And after 16 long years, your prince has returned...”

“Zuko!” With that, both Zuko and Azula exit their ship and the crowd cheers.

==================================================================

The next morning, Rarity is giving Fire’ a mane cut. “No, still too long.” Fire’ said when Rarity cut his mane and tail to the same length as Luna’s.

“Oh, Sorin' has the perfect length and style.” Rarity said as she continues to cut until Fire’s mane and tail until there the same length as Shining’s.

“Perfect.” Fire’ said as he got up. “Thanks Rarity.”

“Don’t thank me, dear. I did it for Twilight.” Rarity said. She then got close to Fire’s ear. “Between you and me: I think Twilight has a crush on you.”

Fire’ then blushes when he heard that. “Oh ... really?”

“Yeah.”

“Huh. If only I wasn't still bedridden, otherwise I would ask Twilight on a date.” Both he and Rarity laugh. Rarity soon leave as Fire’ gets back to bed. “The entire world thinks I’m dead while only ponies in Equestria know the truth. I failed.” Just then, a blue glowing alicorn stallion appears next to his bed. “Who are you?”

“I am Avatar Roku. The father of Celestia and Luna.”

“Roku? Why are you here?”

“To tell you that you haven't failed, Firebrand.”

“But everypony outside of Equestria thinks I'm dead. They think I've abandoned them and we’er losing this war. I'm letting the world down.”

“If anyone is to blame for the state of the world, it is me. I should have seen this war coming and prevented it. Both you, and the other Avatars inherited my problems, and my mistakes. And I believe you are destined to redeem me and save the world.”

“Your right.” Fire’ said as Roku walks to a window and sees his daughters talking with Twilight and her friends in front of a Royal Guard recruitment center.

“I wish I could have watch them grow up.” Roku said, holding back a tear. “I haven't seen either of them for 2,000 years.”

“I could tell them you said hello.”

“I would appreciate that. Firebrand, before I leave, I must tell you that many difficult trials are ahead.” Roku said as he fads. Fire’ then hears a commotion outside and sees electricity crackling.

==================================================================

“Whats going on, Tia?”

“I don’t know Luna.” Celestia said as some royal guards appear, among them Captain Lance.

“You Highnesses, that is the fugitive.” Lance said a ball of lightning comes their way.

“What the hay is that thing?” Applejack asked.

“Ooh-ah-ooh, who is this dude?” Medizinisch asked as he hides in a bush.

“Mcallen.” Celestia answered Applejack.

Mcallen is giving off large amounts of electricity, and does a power plus that sends some cars flying. “The Royal Guard fires me.” Mcallen said in a demonic voice. “Says I'm not ... I'm not psychologically sound. I’ll show you sound!” He then fires at the recruitment center again. Then some unicorn guards fire at Mcallen, but he isn't being affected at all. “You're not fit to were that armor.” He then takes out the guards with relative ease with his super speed. He also kills a guard by electrocuting him. “Is that all you weak excuses for Royal Guards got? Huh?” Just then, Agua, Blitz, and Terra show up.

“Hold it right there, what ever you are.” Blitz said.

“Claws up where we can see them.” Agua finished.

“The Avatars.”

“Easy, friend.” Terra said to him. “Your hart-rate is nuts. Calm down. Theres no reason for this.”

“Oh yes there is.” Mcallen said as red energy appears at his front hoofs. “Lots of reasons. When the Royal Guard sees me take you down bare hoofed, they’ll have to take me back.” Mcallen said as he walks to them. Blitz charges up fires some lasers at Mcallen, but he doesn't stop. “Ha. I can't even feel that.”

“What are you?” Spike asked. “A zombie?” Agua then goes in and does some close combat. Mcallen is sent flying a few feet, but Mallen lands on his hoofs and runs to Agua. She tries to fly away, but Mcallen grabs her hoof and sends her across the street. Mallen then grabs Terre from behind and tosses her, and she hits a car.

“What ever you are, you got to have a central nerves system.” Blitz said to Mallen when he jumps on a car behind him. “Lets see you like this!” He then sends a lightning bolt in Mallen’s way, but he doesn't even flinch.

“Ha! I can feel it in my belly. It almost ... tickles." Blitz then stops as Agua and Terra walk up to him. “Do you know pain, Avatars? Let me tell you all about it!” Mcallen then jumps off and grabs Agua and uses her as a club. He sends Terra to the other end of the block while Blitz hits a wall with Agua.

The two then get up. “We’er threw playing around.” Agua said.

“Lets finished this!” Blitz finished. They then go elemental as Mallen jumps up into the air. They go for each other, but Mallen is faster and grabs them, and sends them hurtling to the ground. Both Blitz and Agua have their heads in the ground, barely conscious. When Mcallen lands, he gets a surprise.

“Blazing Strike!” A wave of fire hits Mcallen, thou he doesn't feel it. Twilight, Mcallen and the others see the source is Firebrand, with some bandages on. Fire’ is also barely able to stand. “You mess with my friends, you mess with me!” Fire’ said to the mutant.

“Ooh-ah-ooh, he is still alive, but maybe not for long.” Medizinisch said as he watches Mcallen walk to Fire.’

“Fine by me!” Mcallen then runs for Fire’ and grabs his front left leg and breaks it. “I’ll deal with you first! When I’m done, they have to scrap you off the street! I’m gonna fry your heart!” He then shocks Fire’ so badly, he screams in pain.

“No!” Twilight said as she stares in shock and horror. But before Mcallen can do anything else, some guards arrive and fire at Mcallen. Mcallen then gives Fire’ another, smaller, shock, sending him into another coma.

“What took you so long? Is Shining Armor with you? Does he see what I can do?”

“My brother doesn't have the time to deal with a monster like you!” Twilight said as some Wonderbolt pegasi encircle Mallen.

“Stand down now!” Celestia said to Mcallen in the Royal Canterlot Voice.

“All right. I’ll show Shining Armor and the world. You want me, come and get me!” He then charges at the pegasi and kills some of them. “I’m invincible. I can’t be touched!” He then electrocutes some more members, both on the ground and in the sky. “Shining didn't fired me, he ruined me. Bring me Shining now, or I'll tear the city apart!”

“He injured and killed dozens of ponies because Shining fired him,” Rainbow said as she stars in shock and horror, “overreact much?” Mcallen then runs. Twilight runs up to Fire,’ who is barely breathing. They then take him and the other Avatars to the emergence room.

==================================================================

Meanwhile, back at the Fire Nation Capital, Zuko feeds some ducks at a lake with some bread. They then fly away when Azula joins him. “You seem so downcast. Has Mai gotten to you already? Though actually, Mai has been in a strangely good mood lately.”

“I haven't seen Dad yet. I haven't seen him in 11 years since I was banished.”

“So what?”

“So, I didn't capture any of the Avatars.”

“Who cares? The Avatar of Fire is dead ... Unless you think he somehow miraculously survived.”

Zuko then remembers that Twilight knows some healing spells. “No. There's no way he could have survived.”

“Well, then I'm sure you have nothing to worry about.”

==================================================================

In an alleyway, a Pegasus guard is looking for Mcallen. “Sky Line to Lance, I’ve lost Mcallen. The fugitive is still at large.”

She leaves as Mcallen continues to walk down an alley. He then begins to hallucinate and sees a unicorn stallion walking up to him. “Shining Armor?”

“Guard Mcallen.” The hallucination said. “You are the best guard the Royal Guard has seen in decades.”

“I knew you would recognize my talent. Everypony has their time.”

==================================================================

At the Fire Nation capital, in the palace, Zuko kneels before Ozia. “You've been away for a long time. I see the weight of your travels has changed you. You have redeemed yourself, my son. Welcome home. I am proud of you, Prince Zuko. I am proud because you and your sister conquered Ba Sing Se. I am proud because when your loyalty was tested by your treacherous uncle, you did the right thing and captured the traitor. And I am proudest of all of your most legendary accomplishment: you slayed the Fire Avatar.”

“What did you hear?”

“Azula told me everything. She said she was amazed and impressed at your power and ferocity and the movement of truth.”

==================================================================

In the emergence room, Fire’ wakes up due to a light in his eye. “Your lucky to have survived.”

“Where am I?” Fire’ asked.

“Welcome back to the world of the living again, Firebrand.” Celestia said as she, Luna, Twilight and her friends, and the other Avatars, who have bandages on, are around him. Fire’ has a cast that goes from his hoof up to his shoulder.

“Fire,’ you're gonna have to take it easy for now on.” Luna said.

“Your gonna have to stay away from your sword for a few weeks, because if you go all out again in your condition, you're not coming back.” The Doc said.

“Oh, great. Things cannot get any worse.”

Shining and Cadence, who looks like she's two months pregnant, walk in, along with a unicorn stallion with a gray mane, a yellow coat, and a DNA strand for a cutie mark. “Shining, you have some explaining to do.” Twilight said to her brother.

“I know.” Shining said.

==================================================================

In the alleyway, Mcallen is still talking to the imaginary Shining. “Take me back sir. I promise I got my head back together. I didn't mean to lash out at Guard Dogen.”

“You have series mental problems, Guard Mcallen. You are relived of duty. You're a failure. A fraud. Your not fit to serve.”

Mcallen the gives off some sparks. “Shut up. Shut up!” He then punches at the hallucination, and nearly destroys a wall. He then notices that the Shining he thought was there is gone. “Shining? Shining Armor! I’m going to tear you limb from limb!”

==================================================================

“I’ve been working on some nano-machines I call nanites.” The Unicorn stallion that came with Shining and the pregnant Cadence said as the group walk down a hall in a university that specializes in robotics and genetic engineering.

“Wait, nanites. That's the stuff Deker gave us at Ba Sing Se.” Pinkie interrupted.

“Please, let me finish. Anyway, the nanites are machines that work on a cellular level, along the regeneration of cells, growing new bones and so on.” The doc said.

“How do they work?” Twilight asked.

“It works by rewriting your systems using you very own DNA, creating creatures I call 'E.V.O.s."

"What does that mean?" Applejack asked.

"E.V.O. stands for Exponentially Variegated Organism. The nanites are a modern attempt to recreate the super solider serum from World War II.” The doc finished.

“Those things are that old?” Rainbow said.

“Not this one. There are a few other, older attempts, but nanites, depending on how well programed they are, affects ponies differently.”

“No kidding.” Pinkie said. “It turned Mcallen into a scary-psycho-monster-E.V.O.-meanie-pants!”

They then reach the docs lab, full of serums and test forms. “Y’know, if nanites can heal the body and enhanced biology, I want some. Can you inject me with a reconfigured low dose.”

“What! Fire,’ think about this. It could turn you into a monster E.V.O.” Twilight said.

“Your out of your skull son.” The doc said. “I’m still in the testing phase. Beside, I’m the only one who can open the nanite vault, and I’m not doing that until we take care of our problem. Pulse, the only completely programed nanites I had were stolen.”

“Did you see what Mcallen did to me and the others. He's a biological weapon of mass destruction. He needs to be stop.” Fire’ said as a guard runs in and heads for Shining.

“Sir. Mcallen is at the center of Canterlot and demands blood, your blood.” The guard said to the captain.

“Thats it, if he wants me, he's gonna get me.” Shining then leaves, despite the protests from Cadence and Twilight. The group, except for Twilight and Fire,’ follow him.

“This stinks.” Fire’ said. “I can’t do anything now!” He then punches at a table.

“Fire.’”

“Yeah, Twiley. What is it?”

“Remember when we said that we left the nanites that Deker gave us at Ba Sing Se?”

“Yeah.”

“Well, I took it when they went looking.” She then takes the vile out of her saddlebag.

“You ... you did.”

“Yeah, I did. You can use it if you want.” She places it on a table and leaves. Fire’ then stares at the vile for a few moments before he locks the door.

==================================================================

“Twilight, why didn't you tell us you took the nanites Deker brought us!?”

“Rainbow, I had too. I was so worried about Fire’ that I...”

“This can wait,” the doc said, “we need to stop Fire’ before he uses the nanites.” They then head for the lab, the only ones who are not with them are Shining, Blitz, Agua, and Terra. When they get there, the doc uses his key card but gets a “Access denied.”

“Firebrand. You’ve lost it. Open this door!” Luna said as Fire’ takes the blue nanites.

“If I’m gonna have a chance against Mcallen and the Fire Nation, I need to be at the top of my game.” He then injects himself with the nanites Deker brought them. He then collapses to the floor and groans in pain. Outside, Celestia is charging her horn and blasts the door open. They run in and see Firebrand on the floor.

“Fire.’” Twilight said with a large amount of worry in her voice. Fire’ then stands up, still the same. “Oh my gosh. Your leg.” Twilight said as she points to his leg that was broken, but now completely healed.

“Fire’ you took some of the nanites?” Celestia said.

“Are you okay?” Twilight asked.

“I’m better then okay, I feel like a new pony. More alive than I ever felt.” He then hugs Twilight and lifts her up in the air.

“Whoa, easy. Your gonna crush my spine.” Twilight said. Fire’ then puts her back down.

“We better take you to the universities medical center to see if your okay. It's next to the robotics lab.” The doc said as they leave.

==================================================================

At the center of Canterlot, Mcallen is destroying everything that dares to even look at him. Medizinisch is watching form a destroyed pillar. “If he did end the Fire Avatar, then he will be a great ally” Medizinisch said. Shining and the other Avatars then show up.

“Mcallen!” Shining yelled.

“Captain Armor. Welcome to the afterlife. Were all dead here. You, me, this whole stinking world.”

“It’s over. Get on your knees. Your under arrest. Stand down, or I will knock that head off your shoulders.”

“I told you, I would be the greatest Royal Guard who ever lived.”

“Now you’ll be known as the ex-Royal Guard with the longest prison sentence.” Shining said as some young dragons surround Mcallen.

Mcallen looks at the dragons. “Ha ha. Your gonna have to do better than sending in some overgrown lizards!” Mcallen then takes out two of them.

“I don’t believe this.” Agua said as Mcallen kills the last of the dragons by either breaking there necks or frying them with his electric blasts.

==================================================================

In the university medical center, a doctor is getting ready to check Fire’ to see if there are any side effects. “We need you to check Fire’s vitals.” The doctor unicorn then places a holographic sheet over Fire’s chest. “Let's see, your completely healed and your heart rate is normal.”

"Good, now I can face Mcallen." Fire' said with determination.

==================================================================

At the Fire Nation Palace, Azula is asleep in her room when Zuko walks in. “Why did you do it?”

“You're going to have to be a little more specific.”

“Why did you tell Father that I was the one who killed the Fire Avatar?”

“Can't this wait until the morning?”

“It. Can't.”

Azula than sighs. “Fine. You seemed so worried about how Father would treat you because you hadn't captured the Avatar. I figured if I gave you the credit, you'd have nothing to worry about.”

“But why?”

“Call it a generous gesture. I wanted to thank you for your help and I was happy to share the glory.”

“You're lying.”

“If you say so...”

“You have another motive for doing this, I just haven't figured out what it is.”

“Please Zuko, what ulterior motive do I have? What could I possibly gain by letting you get all the glory for defeating the Avatar? Unless, somehow, the Avatar was actually alive. All that glory would suddenly turn to shame and foolishness. But you said it yourself, that was impossible.” Zuko then leaves. “Sleep well, Zuzu.”

==================================================================

In the streets on Canterlot, a gaud manages to get Mcallen on his back. “I’m getting sick of you, freak.” She then breaks his neck and takes a few steps back. Agua, Terre, and Blitz join her. They then see Mcallen’s head snap back into place, shocking them. Mcallen then gets back on his hoofs. He then charges at then and sends them flying a few feet. He turns around and sees Shining.

“I’m gonna send you back to your afterlife, Mcallen.” Shining then fires a gun at Mcallen, but he doesn't feel it at all.

“Your mine now Shining.” Mcallen then runs up to Shining, but he fight back and lands a few blows, but Mcallen grabs Shining’s face. “Die!” Mcallen then begins to crush Shining’s head slowly. But before he can do anything else, Fire’ flies in and knocks Mallen back several feet.

“Mcallen, we have some unfinished business. You and me.” Fire’ then sends a fireball at Mcallen. It explodes and Mcallen is sent throw the wall of a restaurant, scaring away the guests. Mcallen gets up and charges at Fire.’ Fire’ tries to hit Mcallen, but he doges the attacks and hits Fire’ several times. Mcallen then runs around Fire,' leaving a trail of electricity behind. Fire’ fires some lasers at Mcallen that actually hurt Mcallen and sends him behind a wall and into a construction site. Fire’ follows and Mcallen sends some lasers at Fire’ and charges at him. He hits Fire’ and send him to the ground.

“I would've killed you the last time if it wasn't for the Royal Guard. I had your heart in my claws, Firebrand.” Mcallen then fires a lightning bolt at Fire,’ putting Fire’ on the ground. He then runs to finished Fire.’ But before Mcallen could hit, Fire' notices an electrical cord that has 10x the power the Blitz can muster right underneath him. Fire’ then punches into the ground and pulls out the cord.

“Chew on this!” He then electrocutes Mcallen, sending him into a coma.

“Ooh-ah-ooh, now he's stronger too.” Medizinisch said as he leaves to tell Chrysalis and Discord that the Fire Avatar is alive and stronger than ever.

==================================================================

Later at a prison, an unconscious Mcallen is taken to a cell that he won’t be able to escape from, with Fire,’ Blitz, Agua, Terra, the main six, Celestia, Luna, Shining and Cadence watching. “Thanks again for saving me, Fire.’” Shining said to him. “And I still can’t believe that you took the nanites from Ba Sing Se. What were you thinking, Twiley?” They than laugh about the thought.

Chapter 3, The Library

The Elements of Nature
Book 3: 气 (Air)
Chapter 3, The Library

After two days, the group (consisting of the main six, Spike, the CMC, Shining and the Avatars, Cadence stayed behind because she’s pregnant) arrive at the foot of the Himalayas. “This is it guys.” Fire’ said. “If we start climbing now we can reach the Library by tomorrow afternoon.”

“Do we have everything?” Twilight asked.

“Let me see, for the two-hundredth time in a row.” Spike said as he pulls out a very big scroll. “Mountain Gear, check. Food, check. Water, check...” Spike keep reading until he gets a claw cramp.

“Thats everything. Lets start climbing.” Rainbow said as she, Fluttershy, Scootaloo, Agua, and Blitz fly up while the others take the path. After a few hours a snow storm hits. “I can’t see anything!” Rainbow said, now forced to the ground.

“Oh no! What a nightmare!” Terra sarcastically said.

“Right, sorry.”

“Were gonna have to find shelter!” Fire’ said as loud as he could. “If this storm gets any worse, we could get blown off the mountain.”

“Over there, y’all!” Applejack said as she points to a cave. They rush inside and Agua creates a wall of ice to keep the wind out.

“Were gonna have to stay in here until the storm ends.” Twilight said as she begins to set up her tent. The others soon follow. Fire’ then starts a fire and begins to cook some food.

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On another part of the mountain, in a temple that's at least over 4000 years old. In one of the chambers, an old unicorn stallion is chanting while an earth pony stallion with a gray coat and a silver mane that's styled in an aerodynamic fashion along with his tail, a silver snout, and a tornado for a cutie mark, is meditating. The strange thing is that his eyes are glowing white.

He sees the pictures on the walls in the room show him images of the Elements of Harmony and Nature without there wielders, in a spirit like fashion. He then has a vision of the group in the cave eating. He also sees a fight were Fire’ goes supernova and nearly destroys a building.

The spirit images of the Elements disappear as his eyes return to normal, showing they are purple. “They are here.” The Earth Pony said in a quiet voice.

==================================================================

The storm finally ends and the group leave the next morning. “Oh, why can't snow be warmer?” Rarity complained.

“I thought I told you to put your winter gear on.” Twilight said to the white unicorn.

“Long red jackets is not my type of fashion, Dear. Besides, it gave me a terrible rash. I’m still itchy.” Rarity than scratches her leg.

“Once we reach the Great Library, we’ll be able to get some rest.”

“If you say so Twilight.” Rainbow said.

“Say, Twi.”

“Yes, Shining?”

“When do you think we’ll get there?”

“I say about a couple more hours.” Twilight said.

“You got to be kidding me.” Rainbow said

“The cold is not that bad, guys. Unless you're a total wimp. Deal with it” Fire’ said. He then gets hit in the head by a snowball from Rainbow.

“Deal with that, Snow Colt.” Rainbow said. She then gets hit in the face by a snowball from Twilight.

“No, you deal with that, ugh I mean ... oh crag.”

“You are SO gonna regret that!” Soon a snowball fight ensures between the friends. Fire’ then sees the same pony again. The pony leaves a bomb where he was. It explodes and an avalanche starts.

“Avalanche! Run! Run!” Fire’ said as they run as fast as they can.

“We’ll never make it!” Fluttershy said as she runs right behind Twilight.

“We don’t have to. Agua, try bending it away!” The group stop as Agua tries to keep the avalanche away.

“I ... cant ... do it!” Agua said as she loses her hold. The snow then covers the entire group. Fire’ melts the snow around him and Twilight. They see that they are at each others faces, with Twilight on top. The two are vitally kissing until Twilight breaks it. The two then blushes.

“Ugh, opes.”

“Ugh, I’ll melt the snow now.” Fire’ said as he gets up and begins to melt the snow. They soon see daylight and exit. The others get out as well, with Agua lifting the snow.

“Wheres Shining?” Twilight asked.

“Over there!” Blitz said as he points to Shining, who’s on the ground and looks hurt. They then run over.

“Shin, you all right?” Twilight asked.

“His leg doesn't look right.” Rainbow said. Agua then walks up and uses her bending to see how Shining’s leg is.

“It’s fractured in three places. I won’t be able to do much here. We need to get to the library.”

“Terra, make us a platform so we can ride it the rest of the way.” Fire’ said. Terra then lifts up the ground and they glide the lifted earth up the mountain. A few minutes later, Twilight sees the roof of the library.

“Look! Over there!”

“Were almost there, Shining.” Fire’ said as they continue to climb.

The group then stop. “Terra, whats wrong, Love.” Blitz asked.

“Just look up ahead.” Terra then points ahead. They then see the Earth Pony from the temple, now with a neckless that has a gray crystal that's shaped like a tornado and in a tan robe that has purple cuffs.

“Who's the colt with the spiked mane and robe?” Rainbow asked.

“I don’t know. I saw him up at the ridge after the avalanche.”

“If he’s the cause of all of this, then he’s gonna pay.” Twilight said as she and Fire’ get off.

“You guys keep going, me and Twi will take care of our new friend.” Terra then takes the others to the library.

“Who are you?” Twilight asked, getting no response.

“What do you want?” Fire’ asked, still getting no response. The Earth Pony then pulls out a staff that has some sky diamonds encrusted into its head. “Oh, so it’s gonna be like that, huh?” Fire’ said as he pulls out his sword. Twilight then fires a laser, but the Earth Pony jumps up into the air at a seemly impossible hight.

“Fire,’ Twilight.” The two then turn around and see the others, except Shining, with a group of monks. “We got your backs.” Agua said.

“Are you all right?” The lead monk asked the two.

“Where's your play mate?” Blitz asked. Twilight and Fire’ turn and see that the Earth Pony is gone. The group then head for the library.

The lead monk, who's a stallion with a gray mane and a brown coat, walks up to Fire’ and Twilight. “I am called the Book-Colt, and as head of the Great Library, I have seen far too many dangerous types out here, like the one who just attacked you. We must get to safety.”

“Shining Armor, is he okay?” Twilight asked the Book-Colt.

“Yes. Yes, your brother will be fine. Come, let us get you safely inside and get you something warm to eat.”

==================================================================

At the Changeling hive, Discord and Chrysalis are still locked up, absorbing the power from the coming comet. “So the Fire Avatar is still alive and stronger than ever, huh.”

“Yeah. If we don’t take care of him soon, both of our exoskeletons will be hung on the wall. Ooh-ah-ooh.” Medizinisch said to Hexe.

“Where are they now?”

“Last time I check, they were heading for the Himalayas to find the Air Avatar and the Elements of Air and Lightning. We should send a unite to ride ourselves of the Fire Avatar before he masters the sealing spell.”

“I got a better idea. We send Chrysalis’s personnel royal guard to get rid of him instead, the Insecticons.”

“Perfect, the Insecticons are the most fierce creatures out there, not even dragons can match them.”

“Yeah, you better call them now.” Later at an entrance to a chamber, Medizinisch and Hexe are hesitant to enter.

“Ugh, ladies first.”

“Why should I go, Noodle Face?”

“It was your idea.” Medizinisch is then pushed inside, with Hexe following closely. In the chamber, there are a few dozen human-like insects on the walls, each one around the same size as a truck. “Who” Medizinisch began to say, “is the fiercest among you?”

“There is no grater ferocity then an Insecticon has.” One of them answered. “But, if you must chose one among us.” An Insecticon then lands behind them. He is the same color as other Changelings, but with a demonic like face that has mandibles. He also has three white scars across his face, while his eyes are red and visor-like. “I am Hardshell.”

“Theres a pesky red unicorn with powerful friends we need to get ride of.” Hexe said. “He has the power to completely banish our Queen, so it’s you task to eliminate him before he gets a chance.”

“As a Insecticon, it is my duty to destroy this unicorn to protect my Queen. I will show no mercy. Sharpshot! Kickback! Shrapnel! Come! We have work to do.” Hardshell said as the three other Insecticons, who don’t have the same type of scars, jump down. They then follow Hexe and Medizinisch to a portal Hexe created.

“This will take you to the location of the unicorn.” Medizinisch said. “Find him and kill him!” The four Insecticons then fly through.

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In the library, the Book-Colt is showing the group around. “Books, ancient scrolls, all types of artifacts and texts. This is truly an island of knowledge and learning in a vast sea of ignorance.”

“All that and central heating?” Twilight said as the Book-Colt finished. “I’m never leaving.”

“How old is this place anyway?” Rainbow asked.

“No one really knows. Thou some sources say the library is at least 4,000 years old.” The Book-Colt said as he takes them to a room that has Shining, with a cast on his broken leg.

“And yet it doesn't look a day over 1,500.” Shining said as his little sister runs up to him.

“Shining, your all right!” Twilight said relieved.

“‘Course I’m all right. I’m super tough. Nothing can keep me down. And these guys are pretty great at the whole healing thing.” He said.

The Book-Colt then claps his hoofs twice, “Yes. The collected knowledge here is what helped your friend. The fractures should heal very rapidly.” Some ponies with plates of food walk up. The food is some cakes, pizza and some hot chocolate. “I also had my assistances prepare you some warm food. Please, enjoy.” The group then dig in, with Rarity dropping her usual manners due to having anything but trail mix for two days and the long climb up. Outside, the gray stallion is watching.

“This five-chess pizza with olive & lemon toppings is nothing short of spectacular!” Fire’ said as he eats a whole slice in a few seconds.

“You got that right!” Rainbow said as she drinks some hot chocolate. “And this hot chocolate is way better than Sugarcube Corner’s!”

“I’m not so sure, but it’s close.” Pinkie said as she has a cup.

“My ... my.” Fire’ began to say.

“Yes, your father loved it too.” The Book-Colt said.

“You knew my dad?”

“Of course. We help Phoenix with his research, he was a scientist before he retired and became a blacksmith. He was very interested in our resources.”

“Gee Rarity,” Twilight said as she sees Rarity drink a whole cup in 10 seconds flat, “I never seen you so Rainbow Dash like.”

Rarity then places the cup on the table and blushes. “Well, it’s because we’ve been hiking for two days and I had nothing but trail mix and some half-frozen apples, Dear. I just couldn't control myself.” The group then laugh before Rainbow begins to yawn.

“I sure am getting tired.” Rainbow said as he vision begins to cloud.

“Me too.” Applejack said as she falls to the ground and falls to sleep.

“Whats wrong my young friends? Was it something you ate?” The Book-Colt asked them with a sinister smile. The entire group then fall asleep.

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Later, inside a cell, the group begin to wake up and Twilight notices that one of them is missing. “Where's Fire’?!” She asked.

“Ow, my leg.” Shining said as Spike accidentally hits it.

“Sorry.” Spike said. “Where are we anyway?”

“Something tells me it isn't the luxury sweet.” Blitz said as he looks at the walls. “Anti-magic and bending metal. We can't escaped.”

The Book-Colt then walks up to the cell. “My, my. What are you doing in such a nasty place, my young friends?”

“I think that's a question we should be asking you.” Terra said as she reaches for her scythe, only to realize that its gone. “My scythe!”

“Ha, don’t even bother, I have all your weapons!” The Boot-Colt said as Rainbow runs up to the bars.

“Look, you creepy freak. Let us out of here right now!” She then tries to grab the Book-Colt, but cant reach.

“My, what a violent little bird. Get comfortable, you won’t be leaving anytime soon.” The Book-Colt mocked Rainbow.

“Bird?! At least I’m not a worm, you ... Bookworm!”

“And now, Fire Lord Ozia will learn that we have captured all the know Avatars and he will richly reward us.” The Book-Colt said.

“Fire Lord?! Y’all creeps are Fire Nation?!” Applejack asked.

“Indeed. We provide information to the Fire Lord and his troops, and in return, if the information is helpful, he pays us in unbelievable ways. How do you think we keep this place warm, a chimney?” The Book-Colt then laughs at the groups misfortune. “But, before we tell him, I want to dissect a certain little pony to see how he survived being struck by 12,000 volts.”

“Fire’!” Twilight quietly said as the Book-Colt leaves.

“Grate.” Blitz said. “This is a fine mess.” Outside, the gray pony from before opens a hidden door, enters and closes it again.

“OK. Now my leg is really starting to hurt.” Shining said. The group then hear a noise and see the gray earth pony.

“Hello.” He said to the group. “I am here to help you.”

“You.” Twilight said as she gets up. “You tried to wipe us off the mountain!”

“I did not cause that avalanche, Twilight Sparkle. That was the Book-Colts guards. Outside the library they wear monk robs, but they are not monks. No, not at all.”

“How do you know my name?”

“I know many things about you, about the Elements. I can help you get your friend and get you out of here. But you must trust me.”

“Is it me or does he talk funny?” Spike said.

“I think it adds a certain mysteries charm.” Applejack said.

“Do you trust me?” The earth pony said.

“Well, we thought you bad and nasty Bookworm was good. But I think its time we rethink everything, I guess.” Rainbow said.

“What does that mean, exactly?” The earth pony asked.

“It means, if you can get us out of here, then we trust you.” Twilight said.

“We need the keys from the guard.” Agua said.

“Why?” The gray earth pony asked them.

“To open the door.” Scootaloo said as the gray earth pony walks to a wall.

“Oh, no. That is unnecessary.” He said as he pushes a large stone brick. “You simply press here.” He then pushes another stone block. “And here.” He pushes another one. “And here.” The door then opens.

The group then exit the cell, with Applejack and Rainbow helping Shining walk. “Lead the way.” Rainbow said. “Whats your name again?”

“I am Ar. And I know a secret passage. This way. Follow me please.” He then opens a hidden door and enters.

==================================================================

Later in the tunnel, the group, led by Ar, are still walking. “Are we almost there yet?” Spike said. “Oh man, it’s really creepy in here.” Spike then grabs onto Rarity’s leg.

“Thats creepy.” Rarity said.

“Ar,” Twilight began to say, “your staff, your cutie mark, their air related. Does that mean you're the...”

“Avatar of Air? Yes, I am.”

“How long have you know that you're the air Avatar?”

“Three years ago, I had a vision of 6 warriors battling a great evil. I was one of those warriors, and I realize that I must be one of the Avatars. Does that answer your question, Rainbow Dash, Element of Loyalty?” Ar then opens a small door that leads to a dark room where Fire’ is at.

Twilight then sees Fire’ strap to a table. “Fire’!” She said as she runs over and frees him. Fire’ then wakes up. Their weapons are also in a glass case near him.

“Ugh. What happened?” Fire’ asked as the others walk over.

“I’ll explain later, but right now we need to leave.” Twilight said. Just then, the lights turn on and they see they are surrounded by the Book-Colts guards, along with the Book-Colt himself.

“Thank you, my young friends.” The Book-Colt said as he walks up to them. “You've been most useful in luring that nasty little monk out of hiding. Now you all can perish together.” The guards then prepare to fire at the group. “Where is the old stallion!? Where are you two hiding!? Tell me you little sneak thief!”

“It is you who are the thief!” Ar said to the Book-Colt. “You stole this place with the Fire Nation and desecrated these great halls of knowledge!”

“Ha, keep your creaky old scrolls and books, which are as useful as the dust that covers them!” The Book-Colt said. “The only knowledge that matters now is that about the Avatars! We are at the verge of a new era led by the Fire Nation, and I will not be left in the dark! I will know all and I will be all powerful!”

“Crazy.” Fire’ whispered to Twilights ear.

“Completely.” She whispered back.

“Get ready, I have an idea.” Fire’ said to the group.

“The Fire Nation will reshape this world! And nothing will stand in the Fire Nation’s way!” The Book-Colt said.

“Shining, the guard. The rest of us will take the bookshelf.” Fire’ said. Rainbow then tosses Shining one of the guards as the others make their way to a book shelf.

“Stop them!” The Book-Colt yelled as Ar jumps over him, temporally blinding him by covering his hood over his eyes. The group the push the shelf over, which starts a domino effect as more shelfs fall. “NO!” The Book-Colt yelled as more and more shelfs fall, eventually landing on the case where the weapons are at.

“Twilight, Rainbow, AJ, AB, Sweetie, Rarity, Scootaloo, Rainbow, Pinkie, Fluttershy, Blitz, Terra, Agua, get Shining out of here now!” Fire’ said after they get their weapons.

The group then escape as Fire’ and Ar stay behind to help cover their tracks. “You young fools don’t stand a chance!” The Book-Colt said as he puts on a mech-suite which increases his strength ten fold. “With the knowledge I have acquired about your powers and the Elements, I will make quick work of you!” He then charges at them, but they dodge and he hits the wall. “OW! THAT HURT!”

“Thats the point!” Fire’ said. Fire’ then sends a fireball, but the Book-Colt jumps out of the way a nanosecond before it hits. “That should've hit.”

“My mech-suite makes me far too powerful and too quick to be beaten.”

“Yes,” Ar began to say, “but it is the arrogance of the stallion within that causes their legs to turn to stone. Easily anchored to this earth. Air Wave!” Ar said as he sends a powerful gust of wind to the book-colt, sending him flying a few feet.

“The little monk has the Spirit Sight! The connection to the Spirit World, allowing him brief glimpses of the future. Not good. Time to raise the stakes.” He then runs over to a pillar and opens a hatch, reveling a keypad. He types in 1602. Several stone pillars then pop up, stopping Fire’ in his tracks while trapping Ar. Ar begins to climb up, but the pillars that are trapping him are hit by a small blast from a cannon armed by the Book-Colt. Ar emerges from the rubble with barley a scratch because he used his airbending to create a durably bubble.

“The path of the devious only leads to retribution.” Ar said after he got out of the rubble. “Book-Colt, you are unworthy to even be in the Great Library.”

“Blah blah blah. You know nothing of true battle!” The Book-Colt yelled. “You live in your forgotten ways, little monk, without truly understanding the real power of what the Elements of Harmony and Nature can do!”

“I think I have an idea, Mr. Freak-Colt.” Fire’ began to say. “Check out what I can do.” Fire’ then begins to go supernova. “Blazing Strike!” Fire’ spins around and sends off blast that destroy the pillars.

“WHAT!”

“The blaze!” Ar began. “The blaze of my vision!”

“Ar, lets finish this.” Fire’ said to him.

“Yes. And with this end a new beginning.” Ar said. Then they fire two different blasts at the ceiling, trapping the Book-Colt. “The Book-Colt has caused great pain and suffering to so many.”

“Ar,” Fire began to say, “as Rainbow would put it, you rock!”

“Thank you.” Ar said. Just then, Ar grunts in pain as he sees a vision of the Insecticons arriving at the library.

“Ar! You okay?”

“I’m fine.” Ar said after his vision ends. “But we must leave. A great evil is coming.”

“Good call. Lets book.” Fire’ said as he goes elemental and flies off, followed by Ar, whose staff has unfolded a pair of wings.

==================================================================

A few miles away, the group see the smoke from the library, and Twilight is having the most horrible thoughts enter her mind about what would happen if Fire’ was defeated and what the Book-Colt would do. She then begins to cry when ... “Look everypony!” Rainbow yelled while pointing.

Twilight looks to where Rainbow is pointing and sees Fire’ and Ar flying toward them. “Firebrand! Ar! Your both okay!” Spike said as the land.

“Yeah, but we should leave before it gets dark.” Fire’ said.

“I will take you to my home. It is not far.” Ar said as he heads to a small canyon with the group following.

==================================================================

At the temple, Ar opens the doors and walks in, followed by the group. They are then greeted by an old unicorn stallion that has a grey coat and no mane and green eyes. His cutie mark is a black ball that has 5 different spikes coming from the top. “Welcome.” He said. “I am glad you are safe. We have much to discus. But first, Shining Armor, let us see to your leg.”

“How do you know my name?”

“Master Ey knows many things.” Ar said. “Many more then I do. Trust me.” Later on a table, Shining is asleep while Master Ey is waving his two front legs in the air.

“srewoP fo eht somsoc, laeh gninihS sromrA gel.” Master Ey chanted.

“We” Ar began to say as the group watches in silence, “are the only monks that remain from the Great Library. It was overrun by the Fire Nation and the one who calls himself the Book-Colt.”

“What happen to everypony else?”

“He destroyed every monk he could find, Rainbow Dash. We were the only ones to escape to this hidden monastery.” Just then, Master Ey stops. “I have spent many months on my spiritual vision quest. Knowing what my destiny is, I waited until you 4 arrive.”

“You spent months waiting for us?”

“Indeed, Blitz. And now you have arrive, I will join you to stop the Fire Nation and return balance to the world. I will follow you wherever you go for now on, Firebrand.”

“Say what?”

“I think its cute, Fire.” Twilight said to him. “You have your own monk now, which is nice.”

“Yeah, it is kinda nice. Ar, high hoof!” Fire’ said as he raises his hoof, only for Ar to stare at him confused. “Ugh, never mind.”

“Were gonna have to work on that one.” Rainbow said as she lands near them.

“Hey, Fire,’ you all right? I think your bleeding.” Apple Bloom said. Fire’ then moves his hoof to his mouth and finds that he has a small cut in his mouth and it’s bleeding fast, but it isn't fatal.

==================================================================

Back at the library, the Book-Colt and his guards are emerging from the rubble. “Fools.” The Book-Colt said. “Ignorant fools. Do they think they can hide from me? Do they! It is obvious that Firebrand is the key, the linchpin! I must have him, must control him!” The Book-Colt said as his guards stare terrified, but not at him.

“And who is ‘he’?” A deep voice asked. The Book-Colt turns around and sees Hardshell and his team on a destroyed wall.

“The ... the Fire Avatar.” He said with tremendous fear in his voice. “We battled and he escaped.”

“So,” Hardshell said, “you have served your purpose.” He then fires a blast and disintegrates the Book-Colt and his guards. “Spilt up, and find a clue to his whereabouts!” After a few minutes, Hardshell finds a small red pool in the snow. He takes a small amount and tastes it. “Yeess, the descendent of Star Swirl bleeds from his wounds.” He then tells his fellow Insecticons to follow the trail.

==================================================================

At the monastery, Master Ey is telling Team Avatar about Sozin’s Comet. They are in a different room while the main six, the CMC, and Shining are waiting. “You see, two thousand years ago, Fire Lord Sozin used a comet to begin the war. He and his army harnessed its incredible power, and dealt a deadly first strike against the world.”

“So the comet made his earth pony army stronger?” Firebrand asked in disbelief.

“Yes. Stronger than you could even imagine. They were able to do a variety of things that even Alicorns dreamed about. Chief among them, the ability to use their own Chi to create fire.”

“But that happened two thousand years ago. What does the comet have to do with the war now?” Agua asked.

“Listen carefully, all of you. Sozin's Comet will return by the end of the summer, and Fire Lord Ozia will use its power to finish the war, once and for all. If he succeeds, even the Avatars won't be able to restore balance to the world. Firebrand. Agua. Terra. Blitz. Ar. You must defeat the Fire Lord, before the comet arrives.”

“How are we supposed to do that?” Blitz asked.

“And how the hay can a comet affect us earth ponies?”

“You see, the comet is full of magical power. It will affect all creatures, but the reason Earth Ponies are so effected is because of their special connection the earth. The comet will increase the power of Unicorns, Alicorns and Pegasi, but the Earth Ponies will be effected the most. The five of you must defeat Fire Lord Ozia and restore balance to the world.”

“But we only have the Elements of Water and Earth.” Agua said as she and Terra show Master Ey their respective elements around their necks.

“Not entirely true. Now that Ar has joined you, you have the Element of Air. As for the Element of Lightning, here.” He then pulls out a light blue box and gives it to Blitz. He opens it and finds a neckless that has a light blue lightning bolt gem on it.

“The Element of Lightning.” Blitz said.

“Indeed. Now all you need to find are the Element of Fire and the sixth Element.”

“‘When dawn alights the daggers tip, the three kings will revel the door way.’ Thats what the Guru told us.” Fire’ said.

“Indeed. But the daggers tip is unknown even to me.” Master Ey said.

“Well, that's just perfect.” Blitz sarcastically said.

“Indeed.” A deep voice said. They then here a scream and rush outside and see Twilight in the claws of Hardshell before he takes off to the South.

“Twilight!” Fire’ said as he sees them fly off.

“What happened?” Agua said.

“These giant bugs just showed up and took Twilight before we could even yell.” Rainbow said as she gets up from a small rubble with Shining.

==================================================================

Meanwhile, as Hardshell and his team fly for a desert, Twilight is trying her best to escape. “There is nothing you can do to escape, Unicorn.” Hardshell said.

“My friends will save me!”

“Exactly, especially you little boyfriend. He suffers from the same things that your entire feeble race suffers from.”

“Bug bite allergies?” Twilight jokingly said.

“Compassion and love.” When Hardshell said that, Twilight realizes that they must be working for Chrysalis and Discord.

“Fire,’ please hurry.” She quietly said.

==================================================================

“There must be something we can do!” Fire’ said as he walks around, making an oval shape hole due to walking around in worry.

“I’m afraid there is nothing you can do.” Master Ey said. “Even with your speed, you won't be able to save her. They are using her as a bargaining chip, Firebrand.”

“Some master you are! When I get my hoofs on those bugs, I’m gonna PIN THEM AND FRAME THEM LIKE A BUTTERFLY!” Fire’ yelled.

“If only we had some wheels or something.” Pinkie said.

"Fools! You do not need wheels! You already have them..." a voice reverberated around the group.

"What the!" Fire’ hissed. He then looks around and sees nothing. He then lays back down and heaves another sigh frustration before looking around and saying, "Who are you? Where are you? Just..." He shook his head in bewilderment. "What the buck is going on? Am I hearing things? Have I finally snapped!?" He grabbed his mane and pulled on it, shaking his head and trying to make sense of the situation.

"Yes..." The voice said sarcastically. "I am but a figment of your imagination..." The voice then let out a chuckle that echoed around the 15 ponies and young dragon, sending chills down their spines.

“Ar? Master Ey?" Blitz said, looking over at them. "Any ideas what the freaking hay is going on?”

They slowly shook their heads. "No, we haven’t see anything like this...” Ar said.

Fire’ then lost it. "OK! Show yourself, whoever or whatever you are!" He barked suddenly.

"I already have." The voice said.

“What are you..." Fire’ then froze when he saw the group staring at something behind him. Fire’ then slowly turned around and his eyes locked on black braces with red lining of a tall, armor-clad stallion whose only recognizable features were his long, sleek face with honey-brown eyes, blood red mane, and a matching tail. As Fire’ looked up at the tall stallion's indifferent face, he gasped in shock. The stallion had a pair of large, feathery wings sticking out from his armor. But the clincher was that he had a unicorn horn as well.

“You're an...an..." Rainbow pointed up. "You're like Celestia, Cadence and Luna. You're..."

“An Alicorn.” Ar said.

“What?" The mysteries Alicorn then smiled. "Did you really think the Alicorn race was extinct? That the only ones left were your Princesses?”

"Well ... yeah!" Fire’ said, standing up and feigning a fighting stance. "It was pretty much implied that Celestia, Cadence and Luna were the only ones left after the Fire Nation wiped them out 30 years ago!"

“True enough,” The Alicorn said, “we are incredibly endangered. I am the last male of my race.”

“Oh, Celestia and Luna will love to know about you..." Rarity giggled. "Mr...?”

"Lunar Eclipse." He gave a quick and polite bow before continuing. "And Celestia and Luna already know about me."

"How?" Blitz cocked an eye.

He gazed down at them, his brown eyes suddenly blazing with fire. "He is a prince." Ar said, startling the group.

"Are you related to the Princesses?" Pinkie bounced excitedly.

“No, he is not.” Master Ey said.

“Indeed, I am the Prince of Death.” Lunar said. The entire group, except Ar and Master Ey, stare in disbelief and shock at what he just said. The chattering of Fluttershy's teeth could be heard over the slight howl of the mountain wind.

"Prince ... of Death?" She said.

"Yes." The Alicorn smiled. "I can give life just as easily as I can take it away."

“Why are you here?”

“I am here to help, Avatar of Fire. There is a way for you to save Twilight.”

“There is!?” Fire’ said.

“Indeed. Part of understanding your own power and potential is to understand your weapons potential.” Lunar began to say. “Once it is in tuned with a focused heart, it’s secrets and powers can be unlock.”

“WHAT!? THIS IS NOT THE TIME TO BE CRYPTIC!” Fire’ yelled.

“He is saying that our weapons, because of the special gems each one has, are vehicles themselves.” Ar said.

“Don’t tell me I have to ride this like a broomstick.” Terra said.

“Not exactly.” Lunar said. He then turns to Blitz. “Blitz, why don’t you start. Concentrate on unlocking your weapon. Let you heart guide you. Imagine you are taking flight without the use of your natural wings.”

Blitz then looks at his nunchuks and closes his eyes. He then spins them around as he is encased in a ball of lightning. There is a mild explosion and when the light fades, Blitz is in a light blue, one seated fighter jet. “Whoa! Ha ha! Did I just do that?” He said.

Fire’ then looks at his sword and then slowly sets the blade on fire. He tosses it up in the air as the ground beneath him rise. When he catches the sword, a small explosion happens and Fire’ is now in a large red motorcycle that has varies blades coming out.

“No way I’m letting you boys have all the fun.” Agua said as she spins her trident in the air, gathering snow and water and forming a shape with them. The ice and water then break, reveling a white and blue and white snowmobile/ski boat combo. Ar then airbends around his staff and jumps on it. After a small explosion, a grey hoverborad appears.

Terra then tosses her scythe up into the air, but it stops in mindful as the ground beneath her rises while stones circle the scythe. She then grabs it and hits it into the ground, causing an explosion. After that, Terra is now in a large green and black off-road truck. “Huh. I hate to hurt the Royal Pegasus Guards feelings, but I think they just been replace.”

“I’m coming Twilight.” Fire’ said as he takes off after Hardshell, followed by the other Avatars.

“That was AWSOME!” Rainbow squealed.

“Say, Lunar. Do your swords turn into anything?” Pinkie said when she notices that Lunar has two katanas with him.

“I wish.” He said.

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As the Insecticons are flying over a desert, they see a grey and light blue blurs come by. “What the?” Twilight said.

“Opes, we overshot that a little.” Blitz said.

“Indeed.” Ar said as they turn around as the others close in.

“Now, lets see what this baby can do.” Blitz said as he tapes the control counsel. But when he does that, the cockpit is open and he is flying uncontrollably. Hardshell then takes cover as Blitz goes by. But he doesn't see Ar fly by and taking Twilight. He then notices his Unicorn prisoner is gone.

“The Unicorn!”

“Ar? You saved me.” Twilight said as she stands on the hoverboard.

“Not without a little help.” Ar said as they see Blitz’s fighter jet turn back into his nunchuks. He then naturally flies over to them.

“Never speak about that ever again.”

“Don’t worry Blitz, our lips are sealed.” Twilight said. Just then they are under heavy fire from the Insecticons. Ar then loses concentration and his hoverboard turns back to his staff. Blitz then catches Twilight while Ar opens the wings. The then fly to the others as they take on a fighting stance.

“You are brave, I’ll give you that.” Hardshell said as he lands. Fire’ then lunches a fireball and kills Shrapnel. As Kickback sees if Shrapnel is dead or not, the other Insecticons see that the Avatars are gone. “We will meet again, descendent of Star Swirl.”

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“That was close.” Twilight said as she is reunited with her friends and brother as they share a group hug that is like the one from ‘The Cutie Mark Chronicles.’

“Lunar, care to return to Equestria with us.”

“Indeed, Avatar of Water. I will join you.”

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In the Fire Nation, Zuko is walking down an alleyway and meets a earth pony with a spiked black mane and a yellow coat. He also has blue eyes. His cutie mark is hidden by a full body black and orange body suite. He also has a timber wolf with him "You're sure you weren't followed?” Zuko asked. “I've heard about you. They say you're good at what you do. And even better at keeping secrets. The Fire Avatar's alive. I want you to find him. And end him. I also want you to capture the other Avatars and the wielders of the Elements of Harmony, alive. Think you can do that, Dom Pyro?" When Zuko said that, the earth pony gets a devilish smile on his face.

"With pleasure." The earth pony named Dom Pyro said.

Chapter 4, The Avatar and the Fire Lord

The Elements of Nature
Book 3: 气 (Air)
Chapter 4, The Avatar and the Fire Lord

At the edge of the desert, the group is asleep. In Firebrand’s dream, he sees Roku emerge from behind a small wall of fire. “Firebrand, it's time for you and the other Avatars to learn of my history with Fire Lord Sozin. You need to understand how the war began, if you want to know how to end it.” Roku then shows him an island. “Meet me on my home island on the day of the summer solstice.”

In the real world, Fire’ rolls over to his side and says, “Okay, Roku.”

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In Zuko’s bedroom, he is asleep as well, but he wakes up from the sounds of footsteps. He then rushes to the hall to investigate. He opens the door, and sees a cloaked individual walk down the hall, and disappear. Zuko begins to go after the individual, but is distracted by a scroll lying on the floor. A surprised Zuko picks up the scroll and reads it. “You need to know the story of your ancestor's demise. It'll show your own destiny.”

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On the outskirts of the Fire Nation, the group is heading for a small remote island. “Are you sure about this?”

“No Rainbow. But we should reach Roku’s home soon.” Fire’ said as Agua and Ar bend the clouds to disguise themselves.

“Over there.” Pinkie said. “Is that the island you were talking about?”

The group then see a lush green island with two pecks. “It is! That's Roku’s home.” The group then land.

“There’s nothing here.” Blitz said as Terra walks around a little bite.

“Yes there is.” Terra said. “An entire village, hundreds of houses ... all completely buried in ash.”

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At the Royal Caldera City of the Fire Nation, in a hall, full of paintings of previous Fire Lords, Zuko stands before one of the portraits, as Azula passes by. “It's never too early for a sitting with the court painter, Zuko. Make sure he gets your good side.”

“Wait, I need to ask you something.” Zuko said. Azula than stops walking. “What do you remember about our ancestor's history? Fire Lord Sozin?”

Azula then sighs. “Ah, Zuko, it's so strange how your mind works.” Fire Lord Sozin began the war, of course. He spent his early years secretly preparing for it. He was as patient as he was clever. He famously waited for the comet, later renamed Sozin's Comet, and use its power to launch his full-scale invasion of the world. In the end, he died a very old and successful stallion.”

“But how did he die?”

“Didn't you pay any attention in school, Zuko? He died peacefully, in his sleep. He was ancient.” Zuko then stares at her in frustration.

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Back at Roku’s Island, the group is sitting on a cool flow of lava as Firebrand, Ar, Agua, Blitz and Terra are meditating.

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Fire,’ Agua, Blitz, Terra and Ar arrive in a part of the Spirit World. They are sitting on a mountain top, surrounded by clouds. “The Spirit World.” Blitz said as they see the Dragon Spirit heading for them, with Roku on his back.

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In Zuko’s room, he is laying on his back on his bed. He rolls over on his side and stares at the scroll. He picks it up and reads it to himself again. “What does it mean?!” Annoyed, he tosses the scroll aside, as it lands on a lantern. The light from the lantern shines through the parchment, and it reveals a secret message on the scroll.

Zuko gasps and grabs the scroll from atop the lantern, and reads the secret message. “The Fire Sages keep the secret history in the Dragon Bone Catacombs.” Zuko then leaves quickly.

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Later at a dark temple, a Fire Sage walks through a courtyard, and stops over a large medallion fashioned in the shape of a flower in the middle of the courtyard. He crouches low, and inserts a key into the center of the medallion.

It begins to open a hidden passage, under the courtyard of the temple. The Sage goes into the passage through the steps. Zuko, who is hiding and waits behind a pillar. When no one is around, Zuko goes to the secret passage, and bends a blast of fire into the medallion. The passage opens, and a spiral staircase is revealed along with a very large secret chamber.

Zuko travels through the chamber and down a hall lined with bones of dragons, all lined up along the walls of the hall. He then comes to an ornate door with a metal sculpture of Fire Lord Sozin on it. The chest of the sculpture has a Fire Nation emblem.

Zuko places his left front hoof over the emblem, and bends a fire blast. The fire fills the door, and comes out from the statue's eyes, nose and mouth. Zuko enters the room, pulls his cloak from his head, and raises his lantern to look around the dark chamber, and sees that the room is filled with artifacts and various vessels.

A large statue of a dragon sits in the middle of the room. Under the dragon's head, Zuko finds Fire Lord Sozin's history. “The final testimony of Fire Lord Sozin.” Zuko read out loud as he picks up the scroll.

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In the Spirit World, Roku and the Dragon Spirit land near the present Avatars. “Come, Firebrand, Agua, Terra, Blitz and Ar.” The group then climb on the spirit. The Dragon Spirit then flies off.

“Where're we going?” Agua asked her past life.

“To visit my past. Our shared past.” Roku said.

==================================================================

In the room where Zuko is at, he begins reading Sozin’s last Testimony. (key, italics mean its Roku’s memories, bold is present, italics and boldis Zuko reading Sozin’s scroll) “As I feel my life dimming, I can't help but think of a time when everything was so much brighter.”

In a lush Fire Nation courtyard in a flashback, two young firebenders are dueling. One is an Alicorn with a white mane and a midnight blue coat with a fireball for a cutie mark. The other is an earth pony with a red mane and a yellow coat with a gold crown for a cutie mark.The young colts, the then Prince Sozin and Roku exchange fire blasts.

“I remember my friend.” While they duel, Sozin notices that Roku's hoofs are close to a tree root. Sozin smiles, and using this to his advantage, he steps up his attack to drive Roku back, causing Roku to trip over the root and fall back. As Roku falls, Sozin grabs Roku by the mane to keep him from falling. While he holds him, he raises his hoof as if to fire blast, but instead he lets Roku fall to the ground.

‘Looks like I win again, Roku.’ Sozin then extends a hoof to help Roku to his feet.

‘Are you kidding?’ Roku said as he takes Sozin's hoofs and gets up. ‘The tree root did all the work. Nice one, Sozin.’

“You were friends with Fire Lord Sozin?!” A surprised Agua said to Roku.

“Back then, he was just Prince Sozin. And he was my best friend. We were like brothers.” As Roku and Sozin leave the courtyard, a young Fire Nation mare goes by. As she walks past the friends, Roku stares at her and blushes, which Sozin notices.

Sozin then nudges Roku. ‘Say something to her.’ He walks after the young mare. He raises his hoof and attempts to greet the mare, who also slightly blushes, but is overcome by embarrassment. He sighs, puts his hoof on his head, and falls down. Sozin sits down next to him and sprinkles blades of grass on Roku's face.

“Love is hard when you are young.” Roku said.

“You don't have to tell me.” Fire’ said. Roku then places a hoof on Fire’s shoulder.

“Don't worry, it gets better. Now come with me.” The group then arrive at a celebration in the courtyard. “We have a party to attend.”

“Wait, whose party is it?” Terra asked, now able to see due to being in the Spirit World.

“Sozin and I shared many things, including a birthday.” Roku said as a young Roku and Prince Sozin walk down from the stairs. As they walk down the stairs, in the crowd, two young mares are watching, one of whom is the mare whom Roku has a crush on, Ta Min. She looks at Roku, then looks down and blushes. Her friend leans over her shoulder and giggles. Roku notices the mare and blushes while he continues down the stairs. Distracted, Roku falls down the stairs, but Sozin quickly grabs Roku by the hoof.

Roku, composes himself, and blushes again from embarrassment, as Sozin laughs at his friend. The crowd then suddenly grows quiet, as a group of Fire Sages enter the courtyard. They walk toward Prince Sozin and Roku, as Sozin hurries down the stairs to meet them. ‘Did something happen to my father?’ He asked.

'No, Prince Sozin. We are not here for you. Roku, do you remember how the royal family found you?’

‘Yes, they found me on Ember Island in a basket with a note that only had my name 16 years ago.’ The young Roku said.

‘Thats not all the note said.’

‘Excuse me?’ Roku said, confused.

‘Tell us, do you remember these.’ The Fire Sage then opens a box containing 6 toys. One a turtle (water), one a dragon (fire), a fan (air), a light blue rode with a ball at the end (lightning), a little shovel (earth), and a pure white ball (the sixth element). All six toys look like there around a few thousand years old.

‘Yes. These were my favorite toys when I was little. But why are you bringing these up.’

‘You see, these are the six Avatar Relics. We place these along with hundreds of others in front of you and other foals around the same age. You chose these exact six. Now, the reason we’re here is to announce the identity of the next Avatar. It is our honor to serve you, Avatar Roku.’ Roku, standing with his jaw dropped, is bewildered. The entire crowd is now all bowing. Sozin, who is still in shock himself, looks around at the crowd, and quickly turns to kneel before Roku.

“Soon the day came when my friend Roku had to leave the Fire Nation and face his destiny as the Avatar. He needed to travel the world so he could master the other elements.” In young Roku’s room, he has a dejected look on his face, as Prince Sozin stands near the doorway. ‘Hey, why aren't you packed yet, all-powerful Avatar?’ Sozin asked his friend, getting no response. Sozin then leaps in the room, attempting to prove examples of all the bending disciplines. ‘Come on, show me how it's done with all five kinds of bending.’

‘I started packing, but then the Fire Sages told me I won't need any worldly possessions anymore.’ Roku said, wiping off the smile from Sozin’s face.

‘Oh.’ Sozin then sits down near Roku. ‘It happened so fast. Everything's going to be different now.’ Sozin then removes his Crown Prince headpiece and gives it to Roku. ‘Here, hope you're at least allowed to have this.’

‘But this is a royal earth pony artifact. It's supposed to be worn by the Crown Prince.’

‘I want you to have it.’ As Roku takes the headpiece, cut to a close-up of his top knot, as he slides the pin in. Roku is now smiling, as he and Sozin get up, and bow to each other.

==================================================================

In the real world, Spike and Rarity are looking disturbed. They see Terra crouching down in a peculiar way, begins to grunt, and farts. She then smiles with relief. “Do they have bathrooms in the Spirit World?”

“As a matter of fact Rarity, they do not.” The Avatars are smiling as...

==================================================================

... They are riding the Dragon Spirit in the Spirit World. Fire’ then notices they are heading for a familiar place. “Hey, we're almost at the original home of the ponies that founded Equestria!”

“This was the first stop on my Avatar journey. It was the place where I was trained to master lightningbending and then airbending.” Roku said as they see a line of young ponies of the three most common types. Avatar Roku is at the end of the line. Roku is lightningbending another young unicorn's mane, turning it fizzy, who, irritated, bends it back at Roku. Roku responds by nudging the unicorn with his shoulder. “And where I met a new friend you know very well: Star Swirl.”

“No way!” Fire’ said.

The Airbenders are now on a grassy ledge. An older Airbender leads the students, and launches off the side of the ledge. The students line up by twos to follow their teacher. Star Swirl and Roku are soaring through the air on their gliders. ‘Hey, Star Swirl, wanna see my new glider trick?’ Roku then flies up and loops twice.
Star Swirl then laughs. ‘Check this out!’ He then flips himself over and stands on top of his glider on his hind legs.

“Whats he doing?” Agua asked.

“Air Surfing?” Blitz said. Star Swirl loses his balance on the glider, but as he falls, Roku catches him on the back of his glider. Roku is unable to control the glider, and both then go down toward the other airbenders who are now back on the grassy ledge. The other students see the falling airbenders, and they panic and try to run.

Roku and Star Swirl, flying low, crash, leaving a large cloud of dust. The other ponies are knocked over, and scattered about. Roku's mane is in his face. Star Swirl airbends it back while Roku lifts his head. They both grin widely, and Roku pats Star Swirl on his shoulder.

“You were friends with Star Swirl, and I'm both a descendent of his and an Avatar.”

“Some friendships are so strong, they can even transcend lifetimes and converge.” Roku said as they fly to Pegasus City at the North Pole. They see two ponies who are standing on a plateau of ice. “After I learned Air and Lightning, I went to Pegasus City, then called the Water Tribe.” Roku is slightly older now as his waterbending master bends a large, water drill from the ocean waters behind him. It thrusts forward, knocking Roku, and a part off of the plateau, into the water. “Waterbending was especially challenging for me. But in time, I mastered it as well.”
A young Roku then emerges from the water, and bends an enormous wave of water directly at his master standing on the glacier. The blast completely destroys the glacier, and carries his master all the way back to a Northern Water Tribe building. His master sits up, and shakes his head. Roku is now standing on an ice float, smiling.

Roku now moves his front legs in quick motions across his body to bend a large piece of earth he is riding up the side of a mountain.

“I then moved on to The Earth Kingdom, now called Geo Firma.” Roku is racing up the slope, as another earthbender catches up to him. The two compete for speed. “My earthbending master, Sud, was uncompromising, stubborn, and blunt...”The two benders then race into thick brush and trees, as they disappear from view. “...and a lifelong friend.” As Sud comes to the finishing point, he quickly brings his landmass to a halt. He thrusts his hoof into the air, cheering for himself. The look on his face changes quickly when he realizes that Roku not only beat him to the top, but he also had enough time to seat himself, and pour them both tea, as Sud smiles at his pupil. They both drink from their teacups. The group then see Roku on a beach, now the same size as Celestia.

“What about the sixth element. Didn't you learn that?” Fire’ asked.

“No. The sixth element was always elusive to the Avatar, ever since the sixth Avatar died. It was bitter work, learning the known five...” The young Roku then moves his front legs to bend the different elements. He starts by waterbending to the South, then earthbends East, firebends North, airbends West, and finally, lightningbends upward. “...but the results were worth it.”

Zuko is still reading Sozin's history in the chamber. His eyes are quivering with each word he reads. “Twelve long years passed before I saw my friend again. When Roku returned, he was a fully realized Avatar, and I had changed as well.”

‘Sozin! Or should I say, Fire Lord!’ Roku said when he enters Fire Lord Sozin’s throne room.

‘Customarily, my subjects bow before greeting me.’ Sozin said as he walks down from his throne. ‘But you're the exception.’ He then smiles and hugs Roku.

“After all these years, he was still my best friend.” Roku said to the current Avatars. Later at a wedding ceremony and celebration in a Fire Nation courtyard, many guests attending. Roku is the husband. On the right is Sozin, holding a scroll. “And a few months later, he was my best colt.”

“Roku, it's that girl who didn't even know you're alive!” Blitz said as a young Roku lifts the bride's veil with his magic, which is the same color as Luna’s.

“Ta Min. I was persistent. When love is real, it finds a way. And being the Avatar doesn't hurt your chances with the mares or stallions, either.”

“On wedding days, we look to the future with optimism and joy. I had my own vision for a brighter future.” Roku and Ta Min are receiving and thanking the guest when Sozin walks up to them. ‘Excuse me. May I borrow him for a moment?’ Sozin asked Ta Min.

‘It's not very traditional, but, okay.’ She said. The two friends then walk for the balcony.

‘What's on your mind?’ Roku asked.

‘I've been thinking hard about the state of the world lately.’

‘Sozin, it is my wedding! Have a cookie, dance with someone, lighten up!’

‘I know, I know, but just hear me out. Right from the start, I was destined to be Fire Lord. And although we didn't always know it, you were destined to be the Avatar. It's an amazing stroke of fate we know each other so well, isn't it? Together, we could do ... anything.’

‘Yeah, we could.’ Roku said slightly serious.

‘Our nation is enjoying an unprecedented time of peace and wealth. Our people are happy, and we're so fortunate in so many ways.’ Sozin said.

‘Where are you going with this?’ A concerned Roku said.

‘I've been thinking, we should share this prosperity with the rest of the world. In our hands is the most successful empire in history. It's time we expanded it.’

‘No! The five bending nations are meant to be just that: five.’

‘Roku, you haven't even stopped to consider the possibilities.’

‘There are no possibilities. This is the last I want to hear about this.’ Roku then walks away from the balcony, with an angry expression on his face. “That was my first real test as the Avatar. Unfortunately, it was many years before I learned that Sozin had gone ahead with his plan, despite my warning.” Roku said to the current Avatars.
A young Roku is flying over a body of water, as he approaches land he sees an Earth Nation dock, but he also sees an Earth Kingdom fortress with plumes of smoke rising from inside, with the Fire Nation insignia strewn over the original Earth Kingdom symbol, covering it. Roku is shocked by this discovery.

Later, Roku burst through the doors of Fire Lord Sozin's throne room. ‘I've seen the colonies, Sozin. How dare you occupy Earth Kingdom territory?!’

‘How dare you, a citizen of the Fire Nation, address your Fire Lord this way. Your loyalty is to our nation first. Anything less makes you a traitor.’

‘Don't do this, Sozin. Don't challenge me. It'll only end badly. It's over.’ As Roku turns back and starts to leave, Sozin, full of rage, jumps from his throne and delivers an immensely powerful fire stream.

As the flames go out, Roku is nowhere to be seen, and a surprised Sozin looks around. Suddenly, Roku bursts from the ground behind Sozin, revealing that he has burrowed into the ground with earthbending to defend from Sozin's attack. Before Sozin can turn back, Roku delivers a powerful air blast at the Fire Lord, which causes him to slam on the gates of the room. As Sozin falls down, Roku immediately earthbends a pillar of earth that lifts Sozin into the air and pins him by the back of his robes to the ceiling. Avatar Roku then brings his hoofs together in front of his face, and enters the Avatar State.

Roku then breaks the pillars of the throne room. Part of the palace is destroyed. Roku then airbends an air spout, and raises himself to Sozin.

‘I'm sparing you, Sozin. I'm letting you go in the name of our past friendship. But I warn you. Even a single step out of line will result in your permanent end.’ Sozin then stares at Roku, his face still full of anger. Suddenly, his expression drops, and he hangs his head in defeat. Roku turns, and rides the cyclone quickly away from Sozin. Severally years later at Roku’s Island. “Sozin and I didn't speak or see each other for 25 years after our battle.” Roku then shows then a small home on the island. “ I spent most of my spare time here, at my home.” Roku and Ta Min are sleeping with 3 foals, no younger than Apple Bloom. Two are Alicorns (Celestia and Luna) and one an earth pony.

Suddenly, a loud noise awakes Roku and he springs out from the bed, and looks at the window. He sees large fireballs falling from the sky, and crashing into the island. Roku and his wife and foals flee the room, but as they do so, Roku's headpiece falls to the floor, and is left behind. Roku emerges from the house to find the air filled with smoke and ash. Coughing, Roku and his wife shield their faces. A worried Roku looks at the erupting volcano in the island.

‘Let's go!’ He takes his wife's hoof, and airbends smoke and ash in their way, creating a path. They both run through the path he created. In the town, the townsponies run through the streets to escape the waves of smoke and ash that now pour through the streets. An ash flow completely buries the house. Roku has his face covered, leading his wife, foals, and many townsponies to safety. Ash continues to fall as a swell of lava ooze from the mouth of the volcano. Roku then looks to his wife and the foals on her back. He then let's go of her hoof, and motions her to go on without him. With her leg still outstretched, she looks at him, and runs to safety. "Take Celestia and Luna to Star Swirl!" She heard in her head. "He'll take care of them." Roku telepathically said to his wife.

She continues to look back, desperately hoping Roku will grab her hand. Ta Min runs off with the young Celestia and Luna with many of the townsponies. Roku turns to face the advancing smoke, and airbends a hug dome of protection around himself. The townsponies make it to the boats, and they see the air dome. At the Fire Nation palace, Fire Lord Sozin watching the smoke from his balcony. “Roku's island was a hundred miles away. But I could still feel it rumbling and see the black plume of smoke. I had never seen anything like this catastrophe.”

Large columns of black smoke billow from the summit of the volcano, as lightning strikes above the volcano and the earth rumbles from the disaster. A landslide is quickly approaching the town, destroying it completely. Roku earthbends a gigantic wall, and rides the wall to meet the falling earth, and stop it. As he succeeds in stopping it, the volcano ejects a massive wave of lava. The flow breaches the wall of earth, causing Roku to flee to the bottom of the summit. He then cuts into the earth using his earthbending, creating a channel to divert the lava into the surrounding ocean, away from the town.

“This is amazing, Roku! You're battling a volcano, and you're winning.” Fire’ said as he sees the lava flow into the ocean.

“Unfortunately, my success didn't last long. There was no way I could do it all.” Roku is now looking up the top of the volcano. The volcano violently expels another giant wave of lava. Roku flies toward the volcano, and leaps. Roku then blows a powerful blast of air from his mouth at the lava, which cools and hardens, as Roku lands on it. Suddenly, a blast of poisonous gas spouts to his right, he turns and covers his face. He turns to the jet, airbending it away. Suddenly lava appears on his right, which he airbends, and quickly another jet of gases blasts to his left, and he quickly airbends it as well.

“Battling the elements was hard enough. I had to do it while I could barely breathe. The poisonous, volcanic gases were overwhelming.” Roku said as lightning crashes around the crater as Fang, Roku’s pet dragon, comes flying in. The summit emits another lava fountain. Fang pulls back, narrowly escaping the blast, and roars. Roku then airbends another jet of gases. ‘It's alright Fang! Get out of here! I'm fine!’ Roku said to his pet.

Roku turns his body from side to side, and then enters the Avatar State. With a powerful blow from his hoof, Roku earthbends a tremor through the volcano, breaking out the back side of the crater, which lessens the lava flow. As the lava flows down, the second volcano erupts, as Roku hopelessly drops his head. Sozin, on a blue dragon, then appears. ‘Need some help, old friend?’

‘Sozin?!’ A surprised Roku said.

‘There's not a moment to waste.’ Sozin said as the two volcanoes continue to erupt. Sozin and Roku ride on the Fire Lord dragon's back to the second volcano. Roku is bending the fire fountain down into the crater. Sozin is balanced on the mouth of the vent, as he cools the lava by absorbing the heat, passing it through himself, and redirects out through his other hoof. The two friends are now controlling the disaster.The townsponies are now a few miles away in the boats, as they see the volcanoes erupting.

Ta Min, has an anxious expression on her face as she holds her two Alicorn daughters and earth pony son.

Roku and Sozin are on the edge of the crater. Lightning blasts above Sozin, as the earth beneath him becomes unstable. He begins to fall back off the side of the volcano, but Roku quickly earthbends an earth shelf to catch Sozin.

Stable again, Sozin looks to Roku for a moment. Suddenly, the earth violently shakes and another surge of ash and rock shoot from the crater, and the two turn to run. ‘Don't breathe the toxic gas.’ As the two run, a jet of toxic gas shoots up directly next to Sozin. Roku quickly airbends it away to protect Sozin. Suddenly gas erupts directly into Roku faces, causing him to be disoriented. He then starts to shake. ‘It's too much.’ Roku lifts his hoof to see it, but his vision is blurred. Overwhelmed by the poisons, Roku falls to his knees. He looks up toward Sozin, and holds out his hoof for help. ‘Please.’ Roku said to his old friend. Sozin then fires a poison dart at Roku, putting in a poison in Roku’s systems.

‘Without you, all my plans are suddenly possible.’ Sozin said in a cold tone. ‘I have a vision for the future, Roku. You see, the dart I ejected you with has a special poison that won’t allow the Avatar Spirit to reincarnate.’ Sozin's dragon then appears. As Roku kneels, Sozin mounts the dragon and flies away. Roku is surrounded by the toxic gas, and behind him a surge of rock and ash flows swiftly toward him. Roku is still coughing, and is unable to get to his feet. Fang appears from the right, and flies above him.

Roku looks up toward his loyal dragon. A pyroclastic flow is now rapidly approaching Avatar Roku. With the rock avalanche just moments away from swallowing Roku, Fang flies down, and wraps himself around Roku. The wave of ash and rubble cover the two completely, killing both of them.

Some babies cry as the five Avatars see five different babies all being born at the same time. “Huh?” Blitz said.

“What the?” Agua said.

“Who are ... wait, that's us, isn't it” Fire’ said to Roku, since some of the rooms are very modern like.

“Make sense of our past. And you all will bring peace, and restore balance to the world.” Roku said as he slowly disappears.

==================================================================

In the Dragon Bones Catacombs, Zuko is still reading. “With Roku gone, and the great comet returning, the timing was perfect to change the world. However, when I called the power of the comet, all benders lost their abilities. I wasted the rest of my life searching in vain for the Elements of Nature. I know their hiding out there somewhere. The Fire Nation's greatest threat ... the Elements of Nature.” Zuko then finishes reading the scroll.

“That can't be it! Where's the rest of it?” He then searches the rest of the scroll to find more information. Zuko puts the scroll down and stands up, in frustration. Scene changes to the Fire Nation prison, where Iroh is imprisoned in. Zuko then bursts in, slamming the door to the cell behind him as he enters.

“You sent this, didn't you? I found the secret history, which by the way should be renamed history most people already know! The note said that I needed to know about my ancestor's death, but he was still alive in the end.”

Iroh then looks up at his nephew. “No, he wasn't.”

“What are you talking about?” Zuko asked.

“You have more than one ancestor, Zuko. Sozin was your father's ancestor. Your mother's ancestor was Avatar Roku.”

Zuko, shocked, asks, “Why are you telling me this?”

“Because understanding the struggle between your two ancestors can help you better understand the battle within yourself.” Zuko then sits down, with his head facing down. “Evil and good are always at war inside you, Zuko. It is your nature, your legacy. But, there is a bright side. What happened generations ago can be resolved now, by you. Because of your legacy, you alone can cleanse the sins of our family and the Fire Nation. Born in you, along with all the strife, is the power to restore balance to the world.” Iroh then removes a brick and reaches for a bundle. Iroh then slowly unwraps the bundle while he walks toward Zuko. “This is a royal artifact. It's supposed to be worn by the Crown Prince.” Zuko takes the headdress from Iroh's hoof, and holds the artifact.

==================================================================

On the hardened lava wave on Roku’s island, the gang had been sitting while the Avatars tell then what has happened. “You mean, after all Roku and Sozin went through together, even after Roku showed him mercy, Sozin betrayed him like that?” Twilight said in disbelief.

“It's like these ponies are born bad.” Rainbow said.

“No, that's wrong. I don't think that was the point of what Roku showed me at all.” Fire’ said.

“Then what was the point?” Applejack asked.

“Roku was just as much Fire Nation as Sozin was, right? If anything, their story proves anyone's capable of great good and great evil.” Fire’ said. “Everypony, even the Fire Lord and the Fire Nation have to be treated like they're worth giving a chance. And I also think it was about friendships.”

“Do you really think friendships can last more than one lifetime?” Fluttershy asked.

“I don't see why not.” Pinkie said as she takes Fluttershy’s hoof along with Rainbow’s, followed by the others.

Chapter 5, Hunted

The Elements of Nature
Book 3: 气 (Air)
Chapter 5, Hunted

In a jungle, the group are lost after they listened to Pinkie after, for some reason, they let her have the map. “Face it, Pinkie, were lost.” Lunar finally said.

“Were not lost. Were just taking a short cut.”

“In the thick jungles of the Philippines!” Rainbow barked.

“Just keep an eye out for a sing pointing to China.” Pinkie said. Unknown to the group, they're being watched in the jungle by Dom Pyro in the trees, accompanied by his pet timber wolf.

“Pour mice.” He said. “All lost and alone. Oh, soon we shall spring our trap and chop off their lovely tails.” He then turns to his timber wolf. “Isn't that right pretty one?” His pet wolf then nodes in agreement.

==================================================================

In the Fire Nation, Zuko is walking into Mai's room. He looks at a painting of them and becomes downcast. “I'm sorry Mai.” He then places a note on her bed and leaves. Later, Zuko is kneeling at a painting of his mother. “I know I've made some bad choices, but today, I'm going to set things right.” He said as he rises, picks up his sword, and leaves.

==================================================================

In the Fire Nation prison, Iroh is silently sitting in his cell. “I bet you're tired of being in this cell old colt.” A Fire Nation general mocked. “Well, too bad. You're never stepping outside these walls again.”

A mare then enters with a plate of food. “Breakfast.” She said.

“Careful, Ming, don't get too close. His stench will knock you right out.” The General said as he leaves while laughing.

The mare known as Ming looks at the general with contemptuously. She then gives Iroh his food. “I snuck in some white jade tea. I know you like rare teas.”

“Thank you Ming. Ever since I was put in here, you have been very kind to me.” Iroh said.

==================================================================

As the group walk in the rainforest, Fluttershy stops and gasps. The others come running to her and see giant stone replicas of the Elements of Harmony and Nature. “Wow.” Fire’ said as he looks at some of the statues. “If it wasn't utterly and completely impossible, I say these were meant to be the Elements.”

“Statues of the Elements in the middle of the Philippine jungle miles away from any civilization.” Twilight said.

“I do not know this place.” Ar said. “I cannot help.”

“This feels bad. Really bad.” Fluttershy said.

“Chill Fluttershy.” Rainbow said. “There just statues. Theres absolutely nothing to worry about. Probably.”

“Over here!” Blitz yelled. “I think I found something.” He then heads for a nearby clearing. When they get there, they see a Buddhist like temple surrounded by walls.

“Whoa.”

“If you didn't know anything about the statue little monk fish,” Blitz said to Ar, “your gonna love not knowing about this.”

“I know nothing of this place.” Ar said completely confused. “Nothing at all.”

“Ancient cities. Lost temples. Theres a lot more to this whole Avatar thing I think we know.” Agua said.

“That looks like the kind of place my dad would hang out.” Fire’ said.

“A creepy dead temple?” Blitz said. “I hate to see where your old colt used to go for a vacation. A cemetery?” The group then stare at him.

“Lets head for the center building. There might be a clue to the sixth element” Fire’ said. “Not all our vehicles can go across the terrain, so were gonna have to walk.” He then makes his way for the temple with the others.

As Blitz is walking down, he's tripped over by Spike. “Hey, what was that for?”

“That was for disrespecting Fire.’” Spike said. He then notices a locket on the ground. “Whats that?”

Blitz then quickly takes it. “Whats this, oh its just a NYBS.”

“An NYBS?”

“Yeah, Non Your Business Scales.” Blitz said as he leaves. Rarity then walks over to Spike to see if he’s all right.

“Spike! Are you okay.”

“I’m fine Rarity. Jeez, that guy is just so rude.”

“I'll say. I don't want him to hurt my little Spikey-wikey.” Rarity said while rubbing Spikes checks.

“Rarity stop.” Spike said when he sees Pinkie and Fluttershy giggling. The four then hear a sparkling sound along with some electricity. Pinkie’s Pinkie Sense gives her a pinchy knee, meaning something scary's about to happen, but her curiosity gets the better of her. The four clear away some vines and scream, but it isn't loud enough the others to hear.

==================================================================

In the Fire Nation, Zuko is in front of the doors that lead to the throne room. “I'm ready to face you.” He said to himself.

==================================================================

Blitz catches up to the group when Fire’ notices something is wrong. “Whats the hold up?” Blitz asked. “Lets go.”

“We thought we lost you.” Twilight said. “Wheres Spike, Rarity, Fluttershy and Pinkie?”

Rainbow then walks up to Blitz. “Come on, Blitz! Don’t you know not to leave those 4 on their own like that by now.”

“We're gonna have to find them.” Shining said.

“We can’t.” Lunar said. “If we search for them in that thick jungle, it’s possible to get lost in a matter of moments. And if we split up to look for them, were gonna get lost ourselves.”

“Whats the big deal?” Blitz said. “If they have any sense, it’s a sense of direction. After all, they know where were going. Heck, I bet Pinkie will have a party ready when we arrive.”

“When y'all put it that way, let's go.” Applejack said as they make their way to the temple.

==================================================================

In the Fire Nation prison, Ming is giving Iroh his lunch. “Lunchtime General Iroh. And this time, I brought you an extra bowl of rice.” She then places the meal in the cell.

“Thank you Ming. Your little gestures of kindness have made my days in prison bearable.” He then thinks for a moment and smiles. “I think you should take the rest of the day off.”

“What?”

“You don't look well. Maybe you should go home and rest.”

“No, I feel fine.”

“Trust me. It is better that you are not here this afternoon.” Ming then nods, meaning that she understands. Ming then leaves.

==================================================================

Zuko then opens the door. Fire Lord Ozia is sitting on the far side of the room, drinking tea. The Fire Lord is surrounded by several Royal Procession guards. He sets his teacup down upon seeing the prince. “Prince Zuko? What are you doing here? Why are you here?”

“I'm here to tell the truth.” Zuko said.

“Telling the truth during the middle of my tea. This should be interesting.” Ozia said. He then sends the guards out of the room. One by one the guards file out, closing the doors behind them.

“First of all, in Ba Sing Se, it was Azula who took down the Fire Avatar, not me.”

“Why would she lie to me about that?” Ozia asked.

“Because the Fire Avatar's not dead. He survived.” Zuko said, getting a shock and horrified face from his father.

“What?” Is all Ozia could say.

“In fact, he's probably found the Air Avatar by now. He could be on his way here right now.”

Ozia then rises from his seat and points toward the door. “Get out! Get out of my sight if you know what's good for you!”

“That's another thing.” Zuko said. “I'm not taking orders from you anymore.”

“You will obey me, or this defiant breath will be your last!”

Zuko then pulls out one of his swords. “Think again. I am going to speak my mind, and you are going to listen.” Ozia then sits down after the recent revelation. “For so long, all I wanted was for you to love me, to accept me. I thought it was my honor I wanted, but really, I was just trying to please you. You, my father, who banished me just for speaking out of turn. My father, who challenged me, a thirteen-year-old colt, to an Agni Kai. How could you possibly justify a duel with a foal?”

“It was to teach you respect!"

“It was cruel! And it was wrong.”

“Then you have learned nothing!”

“No, I've learned everything! And I've had to learn it on my own! Growing up, we're taught that the Fire Nation was the greatest civilization in history. And somehow, the War was our way of sharing our greatness with the rest of the world. What an amazing lie that was. The people of the world are terrified by the Fire Nation. They don't see our greatness. They hate us! And we deserve it! We've created an era of fear in the world. And if we don't want the world to destroy itself, then we need to replace it with an era of peace and kindness.”

Ozia then laughs a little. “Your uncle has gotten to you, hasn't he?”

“Yes.” Zuko said as he smiles. “He has. After I leave here today, I'm going to free Uncle Iroh from his prison and I'm going to beg for his forgiveness. He's the one who has been a real father to me.”

Ozia then laughs some more. “Oh, that's just beautiful. And maybe he can pass down to you the ways of tea and failure.”

“But I've come to an even more important decision. I'm going to join the Avatars and I'm going to help them defeat you.”

“Really? Since you're a full-blown traitor now and you want me gone, why wait? You've got your swords. Why don't you just do it now?”

“Because I know my destiny. Taking you down are the Avatars destinies.” Zuko then puts his swords away. “Goodbye.”

Zuko then begins to leave. “Coward! You think you're brave enough to face me. Don't you want to know what happened to your mother?”

Zuko abruptly stops and turns to face his father. Ozia then smiles. “What happened that night?” Zuko asked.

“My father, Fire Lord Azulon, commanded me to do the unthinkable to you, my own son, and I was going to do it. Your mother found out and swore she would protect you at any cost. She knew I wanted the throne and she proposed a plan, a plan in which I would become Fire Lord and your life would be spared. Your mother did vicious, treasonous things that night. She knew the consequences and accepted them. For her treason, she was banished.”

Zuko then grows teary-eyed. “So she's alive?”

“Perhaps. Now I realize that banishment is far too merciful a penalty for treason. Your penalty will be far steeper.” He then takes out a lightning gun and fires at Zuko. Zuko slides back several feet from the impact of the bolt yet manages to redirect it. He fires the lightning blast near his father, sending the Fire Lord slamming into the back wall. Ozia falls over and raises his head, his face distorted in rage as flames from the lightning attack surround him. The flag behind him falls as Zuko makes his escape.

==================================================================

As the group make their way to the center temple, Rainbow decided to land and walk a little bit as they go around a small crater with dead logs along the edge. She then trips over a log and falls on her but. “Ow! Ouch! Ouch!” She said as Blitz holds out his hoof to help. Rainbow accepts and gets back up. “Ugh ... thanks ... Blitz.”

“Your welcome, princess.”

Rainbow then gets mad and pushes Blitz into the canyon. “Weasel!” She said as Blitz lands hard. Rainbow then follows the others. Blitz then gets the felling of being watch. He turns around and sees a timber wolf behind him.

“Wanna fight ugly!” Blitz said while taking on a fighting stance. Just then, a hoof in a orang glove like boat grabs one of Blitz’s hoofs while he hears maniacal laughing. It’s Dom Pyro. “Take you bloody hoofs off me!” Blitz said as he struggles a little.

“Why do you struggle, little mouse?” Dom Pyro said as he places an anti-bending collar around Blitz’s neck, neglecting his lightningbending. “Theres nowhere to run, and nowhere to hide.” Dom then reaches for something in one of his many little pockets. “So hush now,” Dom said as he pulls out a long metallic stick, “it’s time to sleep.”

He then shocks Blitz until he’s out cold. Blitz then falls to the ground, dropping his nunchuks. The timber wolf then walks up to Dom Pyro. He then rubs the back of his pets neck. “Four little mice and one little dragon caught, pretty one. A good days hunt.” Dom Pyro said.

“Blitz!” Rainbow called, alerting Dom Pyro to her presence. When Rainbow gets to the crater, she finds it empty. “Blitz! Guys! Blitz is missing!” Rainbow yelled as she enters the crater to find out what happened. The others soon join her.

“I’m no detective, but this is defiantly not good.” Fire’ said after a few minuets of searching.

“I can see Spike, Rarity, Fluttershy, and even Pinkie getting lost, but not Blitz.” Twilight said. “This doesn't look right.”

“Hey, guys! I found Blitz’s nunchuks!” Agua called as she picks them up.

“This is not right at all.” Applejack said.

“What is it AJ?” Rainbow asked.

“Take a look. These are timber wolf tracks.” AJ said as the tracks lead into the jungle.

“What do you know about this?” Terra asked Lunar.

“I’ve made the same enemies you have. Whatever this is, it’s hunting me to.” Lunar said.

“It feels like this thing is separating us from the herd one by one. It’s quiet and it’s fast.” Fire’ said while looking in the jungle, making suer that nothing is watching them.

“And it knows its way around this stinking jungle.” Rainbow said. “We cant track it and we have no idea where it is.”

“But we know precisely where it will be.” Ar said, getting looks from the others.

“Wheres that?” Shining said.

“Wherever we are.” Ar finished.

==================================================================

Later that night, the remaining group make a fire a couple of miles away from the center building. Fire,’ Ar, Agua, Shining, Terra, Applejack, Rainbow, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, and Lunar are the only ones asleep as Twilight looks at the jungle. “Poor Spike.” She said, worried about her number one assistant. “Out there, all alone.” She said as she gets up and heads for the jungle.

Ar then wakes up and sees that Twilight is heading for the jungle. “Twilight.” He then wakes up Applejack, Agua, Terra and Rainbow and they follow her. Twilight then stops at a statue that looks like her tiara, the Element of Magic.

“All these strange statues that look like the Elements of Harmony and Nature. I wish I knew what all this meant.”

“Guys!” She heard. Twilight instantly recognizes it as Spike. “Twilight! Can you here me!”

“What is it, Twilight?” Ar said, startling her.

“It’s Spike! He found us!” Twilight then makes a b-line to the jungle, with Rainbow, Applejack, Agua, Terra, and Ar following her.

“No, Twilight! Wait!” Ar said as he takes out his glider and flies after Twilight with Agua and Rainbow. “Twilight! Wait! Come back!” Right then, Fire’ and Lunar wake up along with Shining, Scootaloo, Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle.

“Twilight!” Fire’ and Shining said at the same time as they notice that something is wrong.

==================================================================

As Twilight gets closer as ‘Spike’ continues to call. “Twilight! AJ! Rainbow! Agua! Terra! Ar! Hurry!”

“Spike! Hold on! Were coming!” Twilight said as AJ, Rainbow, Agua, Terra, and Ar run after her.

“No Twilight! We must turn back!” Ar said to a worried Twilight.

Twilight gets to where the sound came from, but nothing is there. Rainbow and Agua then arrive. “But, I swear that I heard Spike calling.” Twilight said, trying to make sense of what happened.

“It’s alright Twilight.” Rainbow said while placing a comforting hoof on Twilight’s back.

“Boo!” Dom Pyro said as he pops from the branches upside down from a tree with a wicked smile on his face, scarring the three half to death. “Hello little mice. Squeak, squeak.” He said as Ar, Applejack and Terra arrive.

“Did he just call me a mouse?!” Rainbow said.

“Who the hay are you?” Applejack asked.

“Me?” Dom then laughs maniacally. “I’m the thing of nightmares.” He then jumps off and lands gracefully in an open field and laughs as his pet timber wolf arrives. “Now you little mice shall experience a true nightmare.”

Ar does an air slash, but Dom and his pet hide in the jungle as he laughs maniacally, with it echoing all around them. “Where'd they go?” Twilight asked. Just then, the timber wolf jumps out and takes Twilight and disappears into the jungle. Twilight then screams in pain loudly. Loud enough for the others to hear her.

“Twilight.” Fire’ quietly said. The group form a circle to try to block off any attacks as the hear Dom laugh. They then see a badly hurt Twilight emerge from some bushes.

“Twilight!” Agua and Rainbow said as they head for her. Agua uses her healing abilities to help Twilight recover. Just then, two discs with bolas on then hit Rainbow and Agua, shocking them and knocking them unconscious. Ar, Terra and Applejack look at the direction where the discs came from.

“Over here little mice.” Dom said right behind them. Dom then throws two anti-bending collars at Terra and Ar’s necks, taking away their bending.

Terra then screams. “I CANT SEE!” She yelled as he seismic sense disappears.

Dom Pyro then pulls out his little ‘knock-out’ stick that he used on Blitz. “All the little tails.” He began to say as he makes his way toward them. “Chop, chop, chop.” He said, even causing the normally hard to scare Applejack to tremble in fear as Dom gets closer.

==================================================================

In the Fire Nation prison, Zuko arrives to Iroh’s cell, but finds that a large hole in to and his uncle gone. “Uncle!” Zuko then sees the prison warden and grabs him by the collar, preparing to hit him with a blast of fire to get some answers. “Where is my uncle?”

“He's gone. He busted himself out. I've never seen anything like it, he was like a one-pony army!” The terrified warden said. Zuko then drops him and heads into whats left of Iroh's cell. He then sees a sandal on the ground. He picks it up and smells it, only to turn his head away in disgust of the pungent stench coming off of it.

"Yep. That's uncles." Zuko said as he places the sandal in his saddle bag and leaves. On the outskirts of the Fire Nation Capitol, under the cover of darkness, Zuko gets on a war balloon and flies southeast, toward Equestria.

==================================================================

The teen CMC, Fire,’ Shining and Lunar make it to the site where Twilight heard Spike and find Terre’s scythe, Agua’s trident, and Ar’s staff on the ground. “Looks like they put up a good fight.” Lunar said as he sees a broken tree.

“Not good enough. Otherwise, they would still be here.” Fire’ said as he sees some blood. Fire’ then heads for the jungle. “We have to save them!” Lunar stops him before he gets to far ahead.

“And we will, Fire.’” Lunar said to the hotheaded Unicorn. “But we don’t stand a chance in this thick jungle. We’ve got to lure it to the open and fight it there.”

“The temple, that could be the perfect place to make a stand.” Shining said.

Lunar then thinks for a moment. “Let’s do it.” The group then make a b-line for the center building. As the do so, Dom Pyro is watching in the trees with his pet timber wolf.

“Little mice, little mice.” Dom said. “Run away home. We’ve know where you been. We know where your going. Don’t we, my pretty one, Combustion?” He said as he pets his timber wolf named Combustion. He then contacts the Zuko with a holo-communicator, but gets Ozia instead.

“So, you're the one my guards have said Zuko has been talking to.” Ozia said, knowing Dom Pyro’s reputation. “How is the hunt he sent you on?”

“Eleven rodents and one dragon caught. Twelve little tails sniped. Only one remains.”

“Plans have changed, Dom Pyro.” Ozia said. “My son has become a traitor, and now you will listen to me. I want the Fire Avatar alive, along with his friends. And I’m willing to pay you triple the price my son paid you.”

“Oh Fire Lord.” Dom said. “Your son has paid for 11. The last 5 we will do ... just for the sport. Yes, we will.” Dom then cuts the connection while laughing maniacally. “Come, pretty one. Now we know where to set our final, tender, trap.”

==================================================================

“Why a temple dedicated to the Elements of Harmony and Nature?” Sweetie Belle asked as the group approach the temple. “I don’t understand.”

“The origin of the Elements of Harmony and Nature are shrouded in myth and legend. Not even Celestia and Luna know where they came from.” Lunar said. “Some say they have been around since the dawn of time. Others say they arrive from the stars and left by Odin, king of the Norse Gods.”

“We’ll worry about stories later.” Fire’ said as they reach the door. “Right now, lets see who comes in here after us.”

The enter the main hall room, which is a dome with 20 columns, when they hear evil laughter. The group then brace themselves as they look where the laughter is coming from. They then see Dom Pyro. “Snap, snap, snap, little mice.”

Shining instantly recognizes him. “It’s Dom Pyro.” He said.

“It is him.” Lunar said.

“You two know this lunatic?” Scootaloo asked.

“Yes, we do unfortunately.” Shining said.

“Whoever sent him doesn't just want us gone, he wants it to hurt.” Lunar said as he and Shining prepare for an attack.

“The Fire Lord pulls the strings today, and we dance. Of course, we get to chose the music.” Dom said as he walks to them.

“Guys, we need to get out of here!” Shining said.

“Oh, don’t be scared.” Dom said when he finally stops with his pet timber wolf. “When we catch you, we promise you’ll never feel fear again.” Dom then laughs maniacally.

“Dom Pyro.” Shining began to say as he and Lunar charge up an attack. “It’s over.” He said as he and Luna step forward in between two columns.

“Oh no, no, no. We don’t like magic.” Dom said as he pulls out a switch. “And we knew you use it.” He pushes a button and two electric cables hit Lunar and Shining, shocking them until there unconscious.

“Hey, sparky!” Fire’ said as he takes out his sword while the CMC check on Lunar and Shining. “How do you feel about sharp pointy things?”

“We love them. Yes, we do.” Dom said as he pulls out a short blade that elongates to 3 feet in length. “Come little mouse, let us end this hunt and dance to a pleasant happy tune.” He then charges at Fire.’ Fire’ catches the blade and tosses Dom into a column.

“Now, Dom Pyro. Let me show you what it’s like to be hunted.” Fire’ said as he charges up and attack. “Blazing Strike!” Fire’ yelled as he does his signature move. Dom gets out of the way in time, but in doing so, the attack hits the pillar, causing it to nearly fall on Fire.’ Combustion, Dom Pyro’s pet timber wolf, causes another pillar to fall, nearly crushing Fire.’

“Now you have cold hoofs to fight as well!” Dom Pyro said. “When this battle is done, little mouse, I shall chop off your tail, ... so very slowly.”

“Not if I can help it.” Fire’ said as Combustion causes another pillar to fall. Fire’ then sees the effect of the falling columns. “The dome.” Fire’ realized. His horn then glows along with Sweetie's Dom Pyro then sneak behind Fire’ and takes him by the mane.

“How does it feel to hear the trap snap down? To know you have been caught?” Dom asked, holding his knockout stick to Firebrands neck.

“I was going to ask you the same thing.” Fire’ said, getting a confuse look from Dom Pyro’s face. He then pushes back Pyro several feet. “Sweetie, NOW!” Sweetie then fires a small laser at a column, causing a chain reaction, making the entire dome fall on Combustion.

“Clever little mouse.” Dom Pyro said. He then laughs maniacally as the temple continues to fall. Fire’ then gets Lunar as the CMC get Shining Armor and escape. The group make it outside as the sun begins to rise.

“Nice work kid.” Lunar said to Fire.’

“Hey!” Fire’ said, annoyed. “Lets find the others.”

==================================================================

Later, Lunar, Fire,’ Shining, Scootaloo, Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle untie the group from a small statue and get the anti-bending collars off. “So, where's mister creepy?” Rainbow asked, finally able to fly after a few hours of being tied up.

“Buried.” Shining said as he unties Applejack. “Under about four thousand tones of old temple.”

“I cant believe someone used me to get to you.” Twilight said to Fire’ as he tends to her minor wounds.

“Don’t blame yourself, Twilight.” Fire’ said as he uses some healing magic on a black eye Twilight got. “Tell you what. Once we get back to Canterlot, how about I get you some of Doughnut Joe’s chocolate doughnuts and coffee to cheer you up.” With that, Twilight smiles.

“When are we gonna get back anyway?” Blitz asked. “I have had enough jungle to last me a lifetime.”

“I called the Royal Guard. They sent an airship to our coordinates.” Shining said. “They should be here soon.”

“Oh, oh, over there!” Pinkie said while pointing. The group see a plane fly to them and land a few feet away. The group then get on and head back to Canterlot.

==================================================================

Back at the temple, some ruble stirs. Dom Pyro’s hoof then breaks free as he gets out slowly.

==================================================================

Once the group land at Canterlot, Twilight is the first to get out, getting a concern look from Celestia when she sees her black eye. “What happen Twilight?” The Alicorn of the Sun asked.

“A crazy earth pony named Dom Pyro.” She said. The others soon get off as well. Cadence then gives a big hug to her husband.

“I was so worried about you.” Cadence said.

“Me too.” Luna then arrives as the Avatar of Air steps out and bows before the regal wing unicorn sisters.

“I presume you're the Avatar of Air.” Luna said.

“Indeed, I am, Princess Luna.” Ar said.

Lunar Eclipse then steps out, surprising both Luna and Celestia about seeing the lost Prince of Death again. "Lunar Eclipse..." Celestia said. "It has been a long time, friend."

“In...indeed...” Lunar nervously said. "It has been ... so long, I..." He looked down awkwardly. "I don't really have a purpose right now..."

“Simple.” Luna said. “Help the Avatars find the sixth element and defeat the Fire Nation.”

The Prince of Death looked up and nodded, a new look of determination on his face. "I will, Luna." He smiled warmly at her. "It has been so nice to see you again, Luna."

“Did he just address her as Luna and not as your Highness?” Rainbow asked Blitz.

“How should I know, love?” He then gets a hard punch from Rainbow.

A slight blush then kissed Luna's cheeks, as she backs away slightly. "Likewise, Lunar Eclipse..."

“Did she just blush?” Twilight whispered to Fire.’

“Yes. She did.” Fire’ answered.

“Princess!” A Pegasus guard yelled, getting all there attentions. “A Fire Nation balloon has been spotted heading right here!”

“How manny are there?” Celestia asked the Pegasus guard.

“Only one, your Highness.” The guard said.

“I see it!” Rainbow then points to the balloon. The balloon lands as some guards prepare for what ever is going to jump out.

The group is also waiting when Zuko comes out. “You!” Fire’ said shocked that the Fire Prince is here at Canterlot in a small unarmed balloon. “Seriously!”

Zuko then draws out his swords, only to put them on the ground. “Why have you come?” Luna asked.

“Listen, I know I did questionably things...” Zuko began to say.

“We know.” Fire’ interrupted. “We lived throw some of them.”

“Barley.” Rainbow pointed out.

“I've been through a lot in the 11 years I was banished. It's been hard. But I'm realizing that I had to go through all those things to learn the truth. I thought I had lost my honor, and that somehow, my father could return it to me. But I know now that no one can give you your honor. It's something you earn for yourself, by choosing to do what's right. All I want to do now is play my part in ending this war, and I know my destiny is to help you restore balance to the world.”

“Even so,” Blitz began to say, “why should we trust you. For all we know, your dad could be on his way. Part of a plane you made.”

“I’m a traitor now, like my uncle, who escaped from his prison.”

“How did you become a traitor?” Agua asked.

“I confronted him, and told him what was on my mind. Then he used a lightning gun on.”

“That sounds like something the Fire Lord would do.” Shining said.

“How are you still alive?” Cadence asked, knowing they had to used the Spirit Water to bring Firebrand back.

“I used a technique my uncle taught me, a technique that redirects lightning.”

“A technique that allows firebenders to redirect lightning.” Fire’ said, unable to comprehend at the moment.

“Yes. He said that each element has it’s own strengths and weaknesses. Fire is strong against lightning.”

Fire's surprised face then quickly turns to one of rage. “Even still, you Fire Nation attacked Abysus and killed my father!”

Zuko then stares at Firebrand, confused for a moment. “I’m sorry, but the Fire Nation never attacked Abysus.”

Fire’ then looks at Terra. “Is he lying?”

“No. He’s telling the truth.” Terra said, surprising the group.

Fire’ then looks at Celestia for a moment. “You are welcome here, I will have a guard around you at all times until it is confirmed that this isn't a tricked.”

“Thank you, your Highness. I won't let you down. I promise.”

“Theres another catch.” Fire’ said, getting looks from everypony. “Lately, I notice my firebending has got out of control. You seem to be able to control it. And, like you said, there's a technique that redirects lightning. I want you to teach me some of these techniques.”

“I will. I’ll teach you what uncle taught me.” Zuko said.

==================================================================

Later, Zuko is shown to his room by Shining Armor. “So, here you go, home sweet home, I guess, you know, for now. Fire’s room is across the hall. Unpack? Dinner ... soon? Uhhh... welcome aboard?” Zuko then glances back and smiles at him. “Yeah.” Shining then walks out of the room and meets Cadence in the hallway. “Okay, this is really, really weird.”

“Completely.” Cadence said as they head to the doctor to check on the baby Cadence is pregnant with.

As Zuko is unpacking, he pulls out a picture of Iroh. He then has a flashback to 11 years ago, a week after he dueled his father.

==================================================================

Zuko and Iroh are at the Western Air Temple, looking for a clue to finding the Avatars. “If I have to, I will spend everyday of the rest of my life hunting the Avatars. I know it's my destiny to capture them.”

“You know Prince Zuko, destiny is a funny thing.” Iroh said to his nephew. “You never know how things are going to work out. But if you keep an open mind, and an open heart, I promise you will find your own destiny someday.”

==================================================================

Back in the present, Zuko suddenly notices a clearly disgruntled Twilight at the door. “You might have everyone else here buying your ... transformation, but you and I both know you've struggled with doing the right thing in the past.” Twilight said as she approaches him. “So let me tell you something, right now. You make one step backward, one slip-up, give me one reason to think you might hurt Firebrand, and you won't have to worry about your destiny anymore. Because I will make sure your destiny ends ... right then and there. Permanently.” Twilight then leaves and slams the door shut.

Chapter 6, The Firebending Masters

The Elements of Nature
Book 3: 气 (Air)
Chapter 6, The Firebending Masters

The next day, Zuko and Firebrand are standing on a balcony of the third tallest tower in Canterlot. “I know you're nervous Fire,’ but remember, firebending alone is not something to fear.” Zuko said.

“Okay. Not something to fear.”

“But if you don't respect it, it'll chew you up and spit you out like an angry rhino!” Fire’ then gulps in fear, knowing the dangers of his dominate element. “Now show me what you've got. Any amount of fire you can make.” Zuko said. Fire’ then takes a very deep breath and does a fire blast, but only a small amount of fire comes out, shocking both Fire’ and Zuko.

“What just happened?”

“I don’t know.” Zuko said. “Maybe it was a fluke. Try again.” Fire’ then does the technique again, but the same thing happens.

“Maybe you should try.” A nearby guard said to Zuko.

“Good idea. You two might want to take a couple of steps back.” Zuko said as the guard and Fire’ step back a little. Zuko then inhales deeply. He does a punch, but it lets out a very small flame. “What was that?! That was the worst firebending I've ever seen!”

“I thought it was, nice.” The guard said, trying not to laugh.

Zuko tries firebending again three more time, with all three attempts resulting in very small flames similar to the first. He then grunts and looks at his hoofs. “Why is this happening?!”

“Maybe it's the altitude.” The guard joked.

“Yeah, could be.” Fire’ said after he tries again.

==================================================================

Later at the court-yard, Zuko and Fire attempt firebending again, which results in a similar small flame again. Spike yawns and lies down on the pillar as the two calm down. “Just breathe, and...” Zuko said as they firebend again, only getting small flames again.

“That one kind of felt hot.” Spike said as he gets up.

“Don't patronize us! You know what it's supposed to look like!” Zuko yelled at Spike.

“Calm down, Sifu Hothead.” Fire’ joked.

“Stop calling me that!” Zuko yelled as Fire’ laughs.

Rainbow then shows up, eating an apple. “Hey, jerks! Mind if I watch you two jerks do your jerkbending?” She said, getting annoyed glances from them.

“Get out of here!” Both Fire’ and Zuko yelled.

“Okay, take it easy.” Rainbow said as she drops her half-eaten apple. “I was just kiddin' around.” She then leaves. “Jerkbending, still got it.” Zuko then drops his head, dejected, and moans.

==================================================================

Later, the entire group are resting near a fountain at night. Zuko and Fire’ are leaning on a column with their legs crossed, both looking below and thinking deeply. Zuko turns his head to the group and walks toward them. “Listen everypony.” Zuko said, getting all their attentions. “I've got some pretty bad news. Me and Fire’ lost our stuff.”

“Don't look at me,” Terra said. “I didn't touch your stuff.”

“I'm talking about our firebending. It's gone.” Twilight then laughs, and everyone's attention is focused on her. Zuko looks at the unicorn with an annoyed expression.

“I'm sorry, I'm just laughing at the irony. You know, how it would've been nice for us if you lost your firebending a long time ago.”

“Twilight.” Fire’ said as he walks over. “Didn't you hear the part where Zuko said ‘our’ firebending. I lost mine too.” Twilight then frowns when she realizes she unintentional mocked Firebrand.

“Well, it's not lost. It's just ... weaker for some reason.” Zuko said.

“Yeah, but why.” Apple Bloom asked.

“I bet it's because I changed sides.” Zuko said.

“That's ridiculous.” Twilight said.

“I don't know. Maybe it isn't. Maybe our firebending comes from rage and we don't have enough anger to fuel it the way we used to.” Fire’ said. “After Zuko told me that Abysus wasn't attack by the Fire Nation, I lost all my anger toward it."

Pinkie then leans over to the two. “Sooo, all we need to do is make Zuko and Fire’ angry. Easy enough.” Pinkie then pokes Zuko and Fire with a stick in the head and waist several times, laughing. The end must be near.

“Okay, cut it out!” Fire’ yelled, scaring Pinkie so much that she stops and goes behind Celestia.

“Look, even if you're right Fire,’ I don't want to rely on hate and anger anymore. There has to be another way.”

“You're gonna need to learn to draw your firebending from a different source.” Terra said. “I recommend the original source.”

“How are they supposed to do that? By jumping into a volcano?” Blitz said.

“No. Zuko and Fire’ need to go back to whatever the original source of firebending is.”

“So, it is jumping into a volcano?” Rainbow said.

“I don't know. For earthbending, the original benders were badger-moles. They help me figure out I was the Earth Avatar.”

“Well, this doesn't help us.” Zuko said. “The original firebenders were the Snake Dragons, and they're extinct.”

“Wait. Dragons? Maybe Spike can teach you a thing or two.” Rainbow said, getting annoyed glares from the group.

“But maybe there's another way.” Zuko said as he looks toward the West, where the sun sets. “The first ponies to learn from the Snake Dragons were the ancient Sun Warriors.”

“Sun Warriors?” Luna said confused. “Who are they? They weren’t around when me and Celestia were foals.”

“No, they died off thousands of years ago. But their civilization wasn't too far from here.” Zuko said, still looking at the West. "Maybe we can learn something by poking around their ruins.”

“It's like what my dad used to tell me.” Fire’ said, looking at the Western horizon. “Sometimes, the shadows of the past can be felt by the present.”

“So, what?” Rainbow said, getting Fire’ and Zuko to look back at her. “Maybe you'll pick up some super old Sun Warrior energy just by standing where they stood a few thousand years ago?”

“More or less.” Zuko said. “Either we find a new way to firebend, or the Avatars have to find a way to win ... without the Fire.’”

==================================================================

In the morning, Fire’ and Zuko are riding Fire’s Blade Cycle throw some mountains. “We've been riding for hours. I don't know why, but I thought this thing would be a lot faster.” Zuko said over the noise of the engine. Right then, Fire’ gives it more gas, and the two are nearly sent flying off. “Oka-a-ay! I w-a-as just kid-d-ding.” Fire’ then slows down the bike and the two land on it safely.

“Nice to see you have an upbeat attitude now.” Fire’ said. They then see the Mayan like ruins, which make Fire’ and Zuko full of awe.

They stop right outside the ruins. Fire’ turns the Blade Cycle back to his sword and they enter. “Even though these buildings are ancient, there's something eerily familiar about them.” Zuko said as they walk down an alleyway. “I can tell the Fire Sages' temples are somehow descended from these.”

“Okay. We've learned something about architecture. Hopefully, we'll learn something about firebending too. The past can be a great teacher.” Fire’ said. He then steps on a trip wire, causing the ground in front of him to fall and spikes come out. Fire’ nearly falls on them, but he uses his sword to balance himself to the other side of the 4 foot gape. “Zuko, I think the past is trying to kill me.”

“I can't believe it.” Zuko said as he kneels down to look at the trip wire. “his booby trap must be centuries old and it still works.”

“There's probably a lot more. Maybe this means we shouldn't be here.” Fire’ said, worried that one trap will cause the mountain there on to blow up.

Zuko then takes two steps back and runs toward the wall adjoining the path. He then runs on the wall before jumping on the other side of the spikes. He then dusts himself off a little. “Where's that upbeat attitude you were talking about?” He then smiles. “Besides, ponies don't make traps unless they've got something worth protecting.” The two then climb up some stairs. When they reach the top, they see a carving of two Snake Dragons (which looks like traditional Chinese Dragons) breathing fire around an earth pony.

“Look, this seems promising.” Fire’ said to Zuko. “Though I'm not sure what this tells us about the original source of firebending.”

“They look pretty angry to me.” Zuko said.

“I thought the Snake Dragons were friends with the Sun Warriors.”

“Well, they had a funny way of showing it.” Zuko then looks down and walks away.

“Zuko.” Fire’ said. Zuko then stops. “Something happened to the Snake Dragons. Something you're not telling me.”

“My ancestor Sozin happened.” Zuko said, facing Fire.’ “He started the tradition of hunting Snake Dragons for glory. There were the ultimate firebenders.” The then start walking across a bridge. “And if you could conquer one, your talents would become legendary and you'd earn the honorary title, Dragon.” They then approach a path which has one dragon's statue on both sides, and stop walking. “The last great Snake Dragon was conquered long before I was born, by my uncle.”

“But I thought your uncle was ... I don't know, good?” Fire’ said, confused that the kind, tea loving, Fire Nation pony would kill a Snake Dragon.

“He had a complicated past. Family tradition, I guess.” Zuko starts walking up a series of stairs, with Fire’ running to catch up to him. They see a vertical column with a sunstone in the center, as Zuko and Fire’ walk past it. Zuko stops walking, while Fire’ runs to the gates, places his sword in between them, and unsuccessfully tries opening the gates.

“It's locked up!” Fire’ said. Zuko then rubs his head, thinking. He then looks behind, and sees the sunstone from the column in front of the gates beaming light.

“Wait.” Zuko takes a step back and sees a beam of light hitting the ground. “It's a celestial calendar. Just like the Fire Sages have in their temples. I bet that sunstone opens the door, but only when sunlight hits at just the right angle. On the solstice.”

“Ponyfeathers! We can't wait here that long.”

Zuko then unsheathes one of his swords. “No, we can’t. But we might be able to speed time up.” Fire’ then walks to where the light from the sunstone is being beamed. He places his sword on it with an angle, causing it to reflect the light. “Let's see if we can outsmart the sunstone.”

“Good call.” Fire’ said as the reflected light hits the other sunstone on the closed doors. After a few moments, the doors open. Fire’ then sheathes fire sword. “You know, Zuko, I don't care what everypony else says about you, you're pretty smart.” Zuko then smiles at Fire’s compliment. Fire’ then walks inside the dark room and looks around it. He narrows his eyes, as sees a statue of a stallion with an angry expression. “What the buck!”

“Relax.” Zuko said to Fire.’ “They're just statues.” They see the there are two sets of statues in a circle. Each set of statues are based on three types of attacks: low kicks, high punches or hits, and double punches with both fists.

Fire’ then walks up to a statue and reads something on it. “It says, this is something called the Dancing Dragon.” The statue is standing on one of it’s hind legs, the other crossed over it. It’s front legs are above the statues head. Fire’ then takes the same posture the statue is in. His leg then presses a button on the ground. Fire’ comes out of the posture and examines the button. He then looks around at all the statues, and runs toward Zuko, grabs him by the leg, and pulls him. “Zuko, get over here! I want you to dance with me!”

“What?!” Zuko said as he pulls back his leg.

“Just do it.” Fire’ said as he levitate Zuko to the other set of statues. Fire’ then goes to the other set as Zuko sighs in defeat. “Let's follow the steps of the statues.” Fire’ and Zuko then take the posture of the statues in front of them and move to their right and left, respectively, taking the postures of the statues in front of them, which pressed similar buttons lying on the ground in front of all the statues.

“Whoa.” Zuko said when he sees the button.

“Don't you see? There aren't dance moves, these statues are giving us a lesson.” Zuko then move to the next set of statues. “I think this is some Sun Warrior firebending form.”

“This better teach us some really good firebending.” Zuko said as they follow the movements of each set of statues. The next two statues have their waists bent toward each other, and their arms in the direction of each other. Zuko and Fire’ perform the same move. The ground then begins to detract and a vertical column emerges from it, as the both look at it. They see a yellow, egg-shaped sunstone with gold swirls on the column.

“What the hay is that?” Fire’ said.

“It's some kind of mystical gemstone.” Zuko said when he runs to it.

“Well, don't touch it!” Fire’ said, stopping Zuko from garbing the sunstone.

“Why not?”

“Remember what happened out there with those spikes? I'm just very suspicious of giant glowing gems sitting on pedestals.” Zuko ignores Fire’ and picks up the stone.

“It feels almost alive.” Right when Zuko said that, a geyser of green slime spouts up, pining Zuko and the sunstone to the celling on a guard rail.

“Oh, no, it's another trap!” Fire’ said as the room begins to fill up with the green slime.

“Uhh, I can't pull free. It's like some kind of glue.” Zuko said as he struggles to get free. He then tries to flip over, but gets stuck with his front facing the sky.

Fire’s sword gets stuck, so he leaves it and garbs the grates, only getting stuck as well. “I can't move! Zuko, do something!”

“Me? I can't move either! Cant you uses magic! You're the Unicorn!”

“I’m trying, but these grates must be made of the same metal that the Fire Nation uses! I can't use magic!” The slime the reaches the two and begins to slowly crush them, when suddenly, it stops. “It stopped.”

“At least we have air. Maybe if we stay calm, we can figure a way out of this. With any luck, the others will see that something is wrong and will come look for us.” Zuko said as the see the sun begin to set.

==================================================================

Back at Canterlot, Twilight is looking at the sunset with a worried look on her face. Shining and Candace then arrive to see how Twilight is doing. “Twiley, you okay?” Shining asked his little sister.

“I’m fine, but I’m just worried about Firebrand is all. He should have at least taken Spike so he can tell us if something is wrong.”

“Don’t worry, Twilight.” Cadence said to her sister-in-law. “Whenever Shining here had to leave for Royal Guard business, even before we got married, I worry too.”

Twilight’s face then becomes red at Cadence’s remark. “Look, Twi. We know how much you care about Fire,’ but he can take care of himself, even if he can get a little hotheaded sometimes.” Shining said.

“Your right. I do care.” Twilight said while looking down. “I do care for him, a lot. Ever since I first meet him three years ago, I had feelings for him.”

“I’m sure he has feelings for you too.” Shining said. “When you got taken by Chrysalis’ Insecticons, he was so worried. I actually thought he was gonna explode.” Twilight then raises he head and smiles, knowing he has feelings for her like she has feelings for Fire.’

==================================================================

“You had to pick up the glowing egg, didn't you.” Fire’ said to Zuko after it gets dark.

“At least I made something happen. If it were up to you, we'd never have made it past the courtyard.”

Fire’ then takes a deep breath and yells. “HELP!”

“Who are you yelling to? Nopony's lived here for centuries.”

“Well, what do you think we should do?”

“Think about our place in the universe?” Zuko said as the stars come out.

Right then, they see a gold coat Earth Pony with a red mane in red leather armor with gold feathers and red face paint and amber eyes approaching them. “Who is down there?” Both Fire’ and Zuko are completely shock at seeing a pony, here of all places.

==================================================================

Later in the morning, Fire’ and Zuko are being cleaned by aardvarks liking the slime off. The are surrounded by ponies of the three main types watching them. The chief, the one who found them, is in the middle. Each mare and stallion has red leather armor and red face paint, but only the chief has golden feathers. “For trying to take our sunstone, you must be severely punished!” The chief said as Zuko and Fire’ are completely cleaned.

“We didn't come here to take your sunstone. We came here to find the ancient origin of all firebending.” Zuko protested.

One of the pegasi with an amber coat and a black mane then walks forward, holding the sunstone. “Yeah, right.” He said. “They are obviously thieves, here to steal Sun Warrior treasures.”

“Please,” Fire’ began to say, “I don't normally play this card, but ... I'm the Fire Avatar.” The Sun Warriors then just stare at him. “Just hear us out.” Fire’ said as he stands up with Zuko.

“My name is Zuko, Crown Prince of the Fire Nation. Or at least, I used to be. I know we accidentally have distorted the ways of firebending, to be fueled by anger and rage. But now I want to learn the true way, the original way. When we came here, I never imagined the Sun Warrior civilization was secretly alive. I am truly humbled to be in your presence. Please, teach us.” Zuko and Fire’ then bow in respect.

“If you wish to learn the ways of the Sun,” The chief began to say, “you must learn them from the masters, Ran and Shaw.”

“I thought Princess Celestia knew the ways of the Sun, not this Ran and Shaw? And there are two of them?” Fire’ said.

“Celestia only tells the Sun when to set and rise. Ran and Shaw know it’s secrets.” The chief said. “When you present yourself to them, they will examine you.” He then looks at Zuko. “They'll read your hearts, your souls, and your ancestry.” He then takes a step toward Zuko and towers over him. Zuko looks worried due to what his ancestors did. “If they deem you worthy, they'll teach you. If they don't, you'll be destroyed on the spot.”

The chief then walks back, and Fire’ and Zuko look at each other. Later at another building, the chief is in front of a large fire. Fire’ and Zuko stare in awe at the fire behind the chief. “If you're going to see the masters,” the chief said, “you must bring them a piece of the Eternal Flame. This fire is the very first one.” He then turns and faces the Eternal Flame. “It was given to ponies by the Snake Dragons. We've kept it going for thousands of years.”

“I don't believe it.” A surprised Zuko said.

“You will each take a piece of it to the masters, to show your commitment to the sacred art of firebending.” The chief then takes part of the Eternal Flame and holds it in his hoof. “This ritual illustrates,” He then turns around in a circle and splits the fire on his hoof into two parts, “the essence of Sun Warrior philosophy. You must maintain a constant heat. The flame will go out if you make it too small. Make it too big, and you might lose control.”

Zuko then holds his hoof out and is given his part of the flame. The chief then gives Firebrand his. “It's like a little heartbeat.” Fire’ said as he fells the flame in his hoof beat like a heart.

“Fire is life, not just destruction. You'll take your flames up there.” The chief then points at a mountain. “The cave of the masters is beneath that rock.”

==================================================================

Later, Zuko and Fire’ are walking through a steep forest up the mountain. Zuko sees how Fire’ is doing and sees he's lagging behind. “Hurry up.”

“I can't. If I walk too fast my flame will go out.” Fire’ said as he uses magic to levitate himself up a large boulder next to Zuko.

“Your flame's gonna go out because it's too small. You're too timid, give it more juice.” Zuko said.

“Remember why I wanted you to teach me those special techniques? What if I can't control it.” Fire’ said. “I was losing control before. I don’t want to risk it.”

“You can do it. I know you can. You're a talented guy.” Zuko said. Fire’ then smiles at the compliment and gives his fire some more juice. It then grows to the size of Spikes arm. The two soon reach the top and see the Sun Warriors waiting for them. They also see two vertical rock with a bridge between them.

The two then walk up to the chief. “Facing the judgment of the firebending masters will be very dangerous for you.” He then looks at Zuko. “Your ancestors are directly responsible for the Snake Dragons' disappearance.” Zuko then looks down, knowing what his ancestors did. “The masters might not be so happy to see you.”

“I know I wouldn't be.” The Sun Warrior who accused Fire’ and Zuko as being thieves said.

“But once they find out I'm the Avatar of Fire.” Fire’ began to say.

“Have you forgotten that you and the other Avatars vanished and failed to reincarnate in time, allowing the Fire Nation to wreak havoc on the world?” The chief interrupted. “The decline of the Snake Dragons is your burden too.”

The other Sun Warriors get into a kneeling position and the chief walks toward Zuko and Fire,’ takes a small part of their flames and gives the flames to both of the Sun Warriors, who go to each of the sides. Some Sun Warriors are standing and sitting, alternately, as the two Warriors standing create a circle made of fire. “We could turn back now. We've already learned more about fire than we hoped.” Fire’ said as they see the chief walk to the center.

“No, we're seeing this through to the end. We're gonna meet these masters and find out what's so great about them.” Zuko said.

“What if they judge us, and attack us?” Fire’ said as he looks at where he thinks there supposed to be judged at, the bridge.

“Well, we're the Fire Prince and the Fire Avatar.” Zuko said as unsheathes his swords slightly. “I think we can take these guys in a fight, whoever they are.” Zuko then smiles. They then see that all the alternate Sun Warriors have made their fire circles. Zuko then turns toward the Sun Warrior chief. “Bring 'em out!”

The chief then nodes in agreement. He then stretches both his front hoofs out on both sides. “Chanters!”

The chanters then play the music. The Sun Warriors, who are sitting down, begin beating their drums in a synchronized rhythm. The other Sun Warriors are holding the fire circle in their crouched positions as they see Zuko and Fire’ walk toward the stairs. The Warriors are alternatively rising and bowing. Fire’ and Zuko are nearing the steps. The chief and the other two Warriors, one being the one who accused them, step aside to let Zuko and Firebrand pass.

Zuko and Fire’ look at each other and take a deep breath before climbing. The warriors are still beating the drums and holding the fire circle. Zuko and Fire’ climbing the steps. Fire’ looks back, but continues forward. Zuko and Fire’ reach the top as the setting sun shines at them. The music stops playing when they reach the top. Both of them look at the caves on each side of the bridge.

“Those who wish to meet the masters, Ran and Shaw, shall now present their fire.” A unicorn Sun Warrior said, using a voice amplifying spell so Fire’ and Zuko can hear.

Fire’ and Zuko then turn toward the caves and bow down with their hoofs stretched toward the caves. “Sound the call!” The chief yelled. A Sun Warrior then blows a large horn. The cave Fire’ is facing rumbles, causing him to tremble. Fire’ accidentally places his hoof down, extinguishing his flame.

“What's happening?” Fire’ asked.

“I think it’s those masters, Ran and Shawn.” Fire’ then cringes and quickly returns to his position, and realizes that his flame is extinguished and gasps. He then turns toward Zuko.

“Zuko, my fire went out.” Fire’ whispered.

“What do you want me to do?” Zuko whispered back.

“Give me some of yours.” Fire’ then reaches for Zuko's flame, but Zuko pushes him behind.

“No, just make your own.”

“I can't.” Fire’ then reaches for Zuko's flame again.

“Get some from those warriors.” The chief and the two Warriors beside him are watching the skirmish from down below. “Hurry! Stop cheating on me!”

“Quit being stingy!” Fire’ said as he reaches for Zuko’s flame. Fire’ continues his attempt to get Zuko's flame but Zuko stretches his legs away. Fire’ then pulls Zuko's leg down, extinguishing the flame. They both then look at each other. The two then feel the ground rumbling. They both get a worried expression on their faces. They then turn and look at the caves.

“Uh, oh.” Zuko said as he sees a pair of eyes in the cave he’s facing. A red Snake Dragon then comes out, roaring and circling around the bridge. Zuko is staring at the dragon as a blue dragon comes out of the other cave. It joins the other dragon as they circle the bridge. “These are the masters.”

“Still think we can take 'em?” Fire’ quietly said to Zuko.

“Sshh. I never said that.” Zuko said as the Sun Warriors kneel before the Snake Dragons Ran and Shaw.

“Oh, here it comes.” The Sun Warrior who accused them said as he looks up at the bridge. “Any moment now. Dinner for the masters.”

“Quiet, Ham Ghao!” The chief said.

“What? Everyone's thinking it.” Ham Ghao said.

“Zuko, I think we're supposed to do the Dragon Dance with them.” Fire’ said as the Snake Dragons continue to circle them.

“What? What about this situation that you think they want us to dance?”

“Well, I think they want us to do something. Let's just try it.”

“Fine.” Zuko unwilling said. Fire’ and Zuko then get into the first posture of the Dancing Dragon and change their postures to the next. Fire’ is spreading his front legs out as the blue Snake Dragon flies behind him following the shape of his legs. Fire’ turns his arms to his side as the dragon turns as well. The Snake Dragons are performing the same movements as each other. Zuko pushes his hoof up as the red dragon behind him goes up as well. Zuko then dips and the dragon dives down accordingly. The Snake Dragons are flying above the bridge as the two firebenders are performing the Dancing Dragon. The then do the last move. They look to either side as the Snake Dragons have stopped moving and are hovering on either side of the bridge.

“Judgment time.” The chief said while still bowing. The blue Snake Dragon is starring at Zuko. Zuko looks back at it, with his mouth wide open. The red Snake Dragon is staring at Fire.’ The two Snake Dragons are sitting, with their legs at the bottom of the bridge. The red Snake Dragon then breathes fire at the two. The blue Snake Dragon does the same. Zuko and Fire’ then yell and cover their faces as they are engulfed by a multicolored flame vortex. It slowly pans down to the coats who look at it, shocked. Inside of the vortex, the two firebenders stare at the scene in awe.

“Wow.” Fire’ said wide-eyed.

“I understand.” Zuko said as the Snake Dragons dissipate the vortex and curl their bodies. They then fly back to their caves. Zuko and Fire’ then walk back down the stair case. “Their fire was beautiful. I saw so many colors, colors I've never imagined.” Zuko said as they reach the bottom.

“Like a firebending version of the Elements of Harmony.” Fire’ said.

“Yes.” The chief said. “They judged you, and gave you visions of the meaning of firebending.”

“I can't believe there are still living Snake Dragons. My uncle Iroh said he faced the last one and killed it.”

“So your uncle lied.” Fire’ said.

“Actually, it wasn't a total lie. Iroh was one of the last outsiders to face the masters. They deemed him worthy and passed the secret onto him as well.” The chief said.

“He must have lied to protect them, so no one else would hunt them.” Zuko said, realizing why his uncle lied.

“All this time, I thought firebending was destruction. But now I know what it really is ... it's energy, and life.” Fire’ said with a smile.

“Yeah. It's like the Sun, but inside of you. Do you guys realize this?” Zuko said to the chief.

“Well, our civilization is called the Sun Warriors ... so yeah.”

“That's why my firebending was so weak before. Because for so many years, hunting you was my drive ... it was my purpose. So when I joined you, I lost sight of my inner fire. But now, I have a new drive. I have to help you defeat my father and restore balance to the world.” Zuko then does a punch, and a six-foot plume of fire comes out. Fire’ does the same, and gets the same result. Fire; also smiles when he realizes that he has control over his firebending again.

The chief then looks at the two. “Now that you have learned the secrets, and you know about our tribe's existence, we have no choice but to imprison you here forever.” The two are completely shocked, they see the chief smiling. “Just kidding.” The two are now relieved. The chief's expression then becomes serious again. “But seriously, don't tell anyone!”

==================================================================

Later, back at Canterlot, Fire’ and Zuko are telling the others what happened while showing them the Dancing Dragon. “With this technique the Snake Dragons showed us, Zuko and I will be unstoppable.” Fire’ said as they complete the Dancing Dragon. The team then applaud.

“Yeah, that's a great dance you two learned there.” Rainbow said.

“It's not a dance. It's a firebending form.” Zuko.

“We'll just tap-dance our way to victory over the Fire Lord.”

“It's a sacred form that happens to be thousands of years old!” Fire’ said to Rainbow, clearly annoyed.

“Oh, yeah? What's your little form called?” Rainbow said.

After a few moments, both Zuko and Fire’ say, “The Dancing Dragon.” The entire group, including Celestia, Luna and Lunar, laugh.

Chapter 7, The Boiling Rock

The Elements of Nature
Book 3: 气 (Air)
Chapter 7, The Boiling Rock

Zuko is making tea for Team Avatar, who are waiting in Celestia’s dinning hall. He then heats it up and pours it into some cups. He then takes it to the group. “No one can make tea like Uncle, but hopefully I learned a thing or two.” Zuko said as he gives some to Luna and Celestia. “Would you like to hear Uncle's favorite tea joke?”

“Sure.” Celestia said.

“I like jokes.” Pinkie said.

“Bring it!” Terra said after she gets her tea.

“Okay.” Zuko said as he serves tea to Shining and Cadence. “Well, I can't remember how it starts, but the punchline is ‘Leaf me alone, I'm bushed!’” He then gets no response. “Well, it's funnier when Uncle tells it.”

“Right ... maybe that's because he remembers everything.” Twilight said, getting the others to laugh. Zuko then smiles.

“It's nice to get a chance to relax a little. It hardly ever happens.” Terra said.

Zuko then gives some tea to Agua, who is reading a letter. “Hey, can I talk to you for a second?” Agua said as she gets up and heads outside to a balcony. Zuko then follows after he gives everyone else their tea.

“So, what's up?” Zuko asked. “You not gonna ask me out, are you?”

“No.” Agua said. “If somepony was captured by the Fire Nation, where would they be taken?”

“What do you mean? Who was captured?” Zuko asked.

“I got a letter from Pegasus City, some of our troops were taken. I just want to know where they might be.”

“I can't tell you.” Zuko sadly said.

“What? Why not?”

“Trust me. Knowing will just make you feel worse.” Zuko then heads back, but Agua stops him by placing her hoof on his shoulder.

“It's my dad, chief Arnook. He was captured too. I need to know what happened to him.”

“It's not good, Agua.” Zuko said.

“Please.” Agua said.

“My guess is, they were taken to the Boiling Rock.”

“What's that?” Agua asked.

“The highest security prison in the Fire Nation. Our version of Alcatraz.” Agua then looks at him horrified. “It's on an island in the middle of a boiling lake. It's inescapable.”

“So where is this place?”

“Why do you need to know? What are you planning?”

“Nothing. Boy, you're so paranoid.”

“It's in the middle of a volcano between the outskirts of the Fire Nation. You guys actually flew right past it on your way here.”

“Thanks Zuko.” Agua then yawns. “Just knowing makes me feel better.”

“Yeah, I'm sure it does.” Zuko sarcastically said.

==================================================================

Later that night, Agua is sneaking toward the Canterlot airport. Some guards barely see her as she hides among some statues. She finally makes it to a small biplane. She opens the door and sees Zuko sitting on a chair with his front legs crossed. “Not up to anything, huh?” Zuko said.

“Fine, you caught me. I'm going to rescue my dad.” Agua said. “You happy now?”

“I'm never happy.”

“Look, I have to do this. I left home undefended. It was my mistake, and it's my job to fix it. I have to regain my honor as Princes of Pegasus City. You can't stop me, Zuko.”

“You need to regain your honor? Believe me, I get it. I'm going with you.” Zuko said.

“No. I have to do this alone.” Agua said as she gets on the plane.

“How are you going to get there? On a biplane? Last time I checked, prisons don't have biplane auto shops.” Agua then stops, sighs, and looks back at Zuko. “We'll take my war balloon.” The two then head for the courtyard where Zuko left his balloon.

==================================================================

The next morning, Fire’ finds a note left by Zuko where the balloon was. The others are also with him. “What does it say?” Terra asked.

“Lets see. ‘Agua up to something. Went with her. Be back in a few days. Zuko.’” Fire’ said. “What do you think Agua’s up too?”

“I overheard them last night about a Fire Nation prison.” Pinkie said.

“Perhaps they went to get some help?” Twilight said.

==================================================================

Over the pacific ocean, Zuko and Agua are flying to the Fire Nation on the war balloon. “Pretty clouds.” Agua said when she sees a cloud shaped like a flower.

“Yeah ... fluffy.” Zuko said. Agua then whistles. “What?”

“What? Oh, I didn't say anything. You know, a friend of mine actually went to fight the war in some clouds.” Agua said.

“Really.”

“Yep. I wish I know where he is now though. He’s the leader of a special Pegasus City squad called the Ice Knights.”

“I heard my dad ran into them.”

“Really.”

“Yeah. I don’t know what he did though. If there's one thing my dad's good at, it's war.” Zuko said as he blasts some fire into the balloons tank.

“Yeah, it seems to run in the family.”

“Hey, hold on. Not everyone in my family is like that.”

“I know, I know, you've changed.”

“I meant my uncle.” Zuko said downcast. “He was more of a father to me. And I really let him down.”

“I think your uncle would be proud of you. Leaving your home to come help us? That's hard.” Agua said.

“It wasn't that hard.” Zuko said.

“Really? You didn't leave behind anyone you cared about?” Agua said.

“Well, I did have a girlfriend.” Zuko said as he looks at the ocean. “Mai.”

Agua then smiles and looks up at Zuko. “That gloomy mare who sighs a lot?”

“Yeah. Everyone in the Fire Nation thinks I'm a traitor. I couldn't drag her into it.”

“Yeah. But I know something harder to accept.”

“And that is.”

“My older brother died saving the moon.”

Shocked for a moment, Zuko looks up at the sky briefly, before glancing back at Agua. “That's rough.”

“You know what this is.” Agua said. “This is an awkward moment.”

“Yeah. So ... what do you know about the elements?” Zuko asked as he blasts more fire into the tank.

“Not much. I know that Water is the Element of Chang.”

“My uncle told me what the other elements are also.”

“Really. What are they?” Agua asked.

“Well, he told me that Water the Element of Chang, Earth the Element of Substance, Fire the Element of Power, Lightning the Element of Ferocity, and Air the Element of Freedom.”

“Wow. Did he say anything about the sixth?”

“No. He said he only knows a single clue, what the sixth element is. He said that the sixth element is the Element of Life.”

“Not another clue.” Agua said, annoyed that they aren’t getting any closer to finding the sixth Element of Nature.

==================================================================

That night, Agua is asleep, snoring loudly. Zuko continues to keep the tank full. He then stops to look out in the distance. “There it is!” Agua then wakes up and sees a volcanic island with steam coming out of the caldera. They then see the prison, a hexagonal shape building that has a net above it to keep pegasi prisoners from escaping. “There's plenty of steam to keep us covered. As long as we're quiet, we should be able to navigate through it without being caught.” As they enter the volcano's steam, the balloon begins losing altitude quickly. “We're going down! The balloon's not working anymore!” Zuko said as he frantically fires into the tank.

“The air outside is just as hot as the air inside so we can't fly!” Agua said as they get closer to the Boiling Rock.

Agua and Zuko then fall to their sides as the balloon tilts. “So what are we supposed to do?” Zuko asked.

“I don't know! Crash-land it?” The then balloon skids along the boiling water, splashing Agua's hoof, which she shakes while blocking her mouth to prevent herself from screaming. The balloon hen hits the base of the rock, ejecting the two from it.

“How are we going to get off the island if the balloon won't work?” Zuko said when he sees the destroyed balloon.

“We'll figure something out!” Agua said. “I suspected it might be a one-way ticket.”

“You knew this would happen and you wanted to come anyway?” Zuko said as Agua walks to the destroyed balloon and gets her trident.

“My dad, the chief of Pegasus City, might be here! I had to come and see!”

“Uncle always said I never thought things through. But this ... this is just crazy!”

“Hey, I never wanted you to come along in the first place!” Agua then pushes the balloon into the boiling water with her trident.

“What are you doing?”

“It doesn't work anyway, and we don't want anyone find it.” Agua said as the balloon slowly sinks.

“I hope you know what you're doing.” Zuko said as they both turn to look at the prison. “There's no turning back now.”

==================================================================

The next morning, Agua and Zuko are in the room where the guard uniforms are kept. “Are you sure they will think I’m from one of the colonies, Zuko?”

“I’m sure. I’ve seen many pegasi living in the colonies before.” The two then put on the helmets and head out. Agua is also wearing boats to hide her water pattern hoofs. “I just hope these disguises work long enough.”

“We just need to lay low and find my dad as soon as possible.” Just then, a series of guards run by. One of them runs back and looks at them.

“Guards! There's a scuffle in the yard. Come on.” The two then go to the yard and see the prisoners gather in a circle. They see a guard and a unicorn prisoner with a similar build to Shining’s are in the center. The prisoner has a black mane, a yellow coat and blue eyes.

“I didn't do anything! I'm going back to my cell.” The prisoner then leaves, but the guard uses a whip to get his attention.

“Stop right there, Chit Sang.” He said. “I've had it with your unruly behavior!”

“What did I do?” The unicorn known as Chit Sang asked.

“He wants to know what he did. Isn't that cute?” The guard said to Zuko and Agua. He then gives them a look and opens the visor of his helmet when they say nothing.

“Uh, very cute, sir.” Zuko said.

“Just plain adorable.” Agua said as the guard walks up to Chit Sang.

“You didn't bow down when I walked by, Chit Sang!”

“What? That's not a prison rule.”

“Do it!” The guard yelled.

“Make me.” Chit Sang said. The bully guard then walks away, but then, as he is leaving, he whips at Chit Sang. Chit Sang blocks it, using an orange shield.

“Tsk tsk. Magic is prohibited. You're going in the cooler.” The bully then points at Agua. “You! Help me take him in.”

“Meet me back here in an hour.” Agua whispered to Zuko before she runs up to Chit Sang and the guard.

==================================================================

Inside, the bully guard leads Agua and Chit Sang to the cooler. He then opens one and Agua pushes Chit Sang in. “The warden will deal with you soon.” The bully guard said as Agua closes the door. “Can you believe this guy?” He said to Agua, oblivious that she’s an Avatar, even thou you can see her natural colors.

“Prisoners! Am I right?” Agua said, trying to play along.

“Ugh. Tell me about it.”

==================================================================

In the lounge, Zuko is getting something to eat along with other guards. Some are talking to each other and have their helmets off. “Hey, new guy!” A stallion guard called out to Zuko. “I know it's the rule to have your helmet on at all times, but this is the lounge. Relax.”

“But what if there's an incident? If I'm not ready, somepony could strike me on the head.” Zuko said, getting the guards at the table to laugh a little.

“Give him a week, he'll loosen up.” A mare guard said.

“Can the new guy ask you veterans a few questions about the prison?” Zuko said.

“No, you can't date the female guards.” The mare said.

“Trust me, you don't want to.” The guard who called Zuko over said. The mare then throws a cup at him, causing the guard next to him to laugh.

“No, that's not it.” Zuko said. “The Boiling Rock, it holds the Fire Nation's most dangerous criminals, right?” The other guards then nod in agreement. “So what about war prisoners?”

==================================================================

Meanwhile, Agua and the bully guard continue to stand guard by the cooler and Chit Sang, who is shivering and starting to turn blue. “It sure looks cold in there.” Agua said as she sees Chit shiver.

“That's why we call it the cooler. He won't be using magic there. A few minutes in there, and he won’t be able to uses magic for a week.” The bully guard said. He then sees a pony in light red armor coming. He also has a light tan coat and a black mane. “It's the warden!” He said as he stands in attention. “Look alive!”

Agua then does the same as the warden opens to cooler. “So Chit Sang, I hear you used magic to try to escape.” The warden said. “You should know better.”

“I wasn't trying to escape.” Chit Sang protested.

“He's lying! I saw it with my own eyes.” The bully guard said, only to get pushed back by one of the wardens bodyguards.

“No one has ever, ever escaped from here. I'd sooner jump in the Boiling Lake myself than let that record fall. Don't forget it. Now go back to your shivering.” The warden said as he closes the cooler again.

==================================================================

Back at Canterlot, Terra is practicing metalbending in a steel box. Terra punches at the walls and, using her seismic sense, feels tiny particles in the metal. She then exhales deeply and begins to push against the metal. “Come on metal. Budge!” She said while struggling. She then punches a hole in the metal and shakes her hoof in pain. “Woo! Terra, you rule.”

==================================================================

Back at the Boiling Rock, Agua is on a balcony looking for her father when Zuko comes along. “Hey there, fellow guard, how goes it?”

Agua then lifts her helmets visor. “Zuko?”

“Shhh! Listen, I asked around the lounge. There are no Pegasus City prisoners.” Zuko said as he lifts up his visor. “I'm afraid your father's not here.”

“What? Are you sure, did you double-check?”

“Yeah, I'm sure.”

“No. NO!” Agua then bangs her hoof against the wall in frustration.

“I'm really sorry, Agua.”

“So we came all this way for nothing? I failed.” Agua said as she begins to cry.

“What would Uncle say?” Zuko then looks up at the sky and sees some clods through the netting. “Sometimes, clouds have two sides, a dark and light, and a silver lining in between. It's like a silver sandwich! So, when life seems hard, take a bite out of the silver sandwich!” While Zuko said that, Agua notices a familiar Pegasus stallion in the yard that cheers her up.

“Maybe we haven't failed after all!” Agua said with a smile on her face.

“That's the spirit! I can't believe that worked. I didn't even know what I was saying.”

“No, what you said made no sense at all. But look.” Agua then points to the Pegasus stallion she saw. He’s around the same age as Shining. He also has a light blue coat and a silver mane that's like Soarin’s. He also has a blue spear for a cutie mark. “It's Hielo!”

Hielo is sitting in the yard when a bell rings. “Prisoners, back in your cells!” A guard said. The prisoners, including Hielo, then head back to their cells.

Agua is beginning to drool when Zuko slaps her head. “Ow! What was that for?”

“You were ignoring my questions while drooling over that guy. Who is he anyway?”

“Oh. He’s Hielo, the leader of the Ice Knights I told you about. And he’s my ... I mean my friend, I mean...”

“He’s your boyfriend, isn't he?”

“Yeah. He left to fight in the war a few weeks before the Fire Nation attacked Pegasus City.” Agua said. “I have to go see him!” Agua said, before taking off at a speed that can rival Rainbows.

“Ugh, mares. The more I try to understand them, the stranger they get.” Zuko said as he closes his visor and follows her.

==================================================================

In Hielo’s cell, he’s lying on the bed when Agua walks in. “What is it? Did I do something wrong?” Hielo asked.

“Yeah, I got a problem with you! I've seen your type before. Probably sarcastic, think you're hilarious.” Agua said.

“Do I know you?” Hielo asked.

“You mean you don't recognize me?”

“You ponies all look the same to me.” Hielo said.

“Oh?” Agua said as she walks up to him. “Then maybe you'll recognize this.”

“What do you...” But before Hielo could finish, Agua grabs him by his coat and kisses him on the lips. Hielo then blushes brightly when he recognizes that only one pony he knows can kiss like this. Agua then let's go and stops kissing him. “Agua!” He said as Agua opens her visor. The two then hug.

“Hielo, it’s good to see you!” Agua said she cries with tears of joy with Hielo. “The other Ice Knights - are they here?”

“No. I don't know where they are. They locked me in here because I'm the leader.” Hielo said.

“Well, you won't be here for long. I'm busting you out.” Agua said with a smile on her face.

“Huh, funny. I always thought you would be the damsel in distress and I had to save you, not the other way around.” Hielo said, getting a laugh from Agua.

“How did you get captured?” Agua asked.

“We were on an island near Fire Nation waters when three mares showed up. One of then gave me some quick jabs and cartwheeled away. What ever she did, I wasn't able to move.”

Agua's eyes then widen in realization. “Ty Lee.”

Hielo then tries to change the subject. “Hows Sokka doing?” Hielo asked.

“He’s dead.” Agua told him, shocking him to the point that he’s speechless. “He sacrificed himself to save to moon.” Agua then begins to cry.

“Hey, hey. It’s okay, Agua.” Hielo said, trying to comfort her. Agua then smiles. The now-reunited couple then kiss again. The kiss is a very romantic and deep kiss that's nearly inseparable. Outside the cell, Zuko notices a female guard is coming. He then taps on the cell door to get Agua and Hielo's attention.

“Excuse me. I need to get into that cell.” The guard said.

“No, you can't go in there!” Zuko said as he looks at the prison cell. “The lights are out. The prisoner could sneak up on you.”

“Step aside, fool.” Zuko then grabs her and slams her against the door. “Hey, hey, what are you doing?!” A struggle then begins between the two. Agua puts her guard helmet back on and leaves the cell. “Guard, help! I think he's an impostor! Arrest him!” The female guard said as she continues to fight with Zuko. “Get him off me and arrest him!”

Agua then grabs Zuko and throws him on the floor. “You're under arrest!” She said as she puts some cuffs on him. When Agua is sure that the other guard isn't listening, she whispers, “Don't worry, I'll figure something out.” Agua then leads Zuko away, followed by the female guard.

==================================================================

Later, Zuko, now in a red prison garb, is in an isolated room. The door then opens and the warden walks in. “Well, well, well. I never thought I'd find you in here, Prince Zuko.”

“How did you know who I am?” Zuko asked, shocked.

“How could I not? You broke my niece's heart.” The warden said, shocking Zuko even more.

“You're Mai's uncle? I never meant to hurt her.” Zuko said.

“Quiet! You're my special prisoner now. And you'd best behave. If these criminals found out who you are, the traitor prince who let his nation down, why they'd tear you to shreds.”

“So what's in it for you? Why don't you just tell my father to come collect a reward?”

“Oh, in due time, believe me, I intend to collect.” The warden then leaves.

==================================================================

Outside the cells, Agua comes down and sees Zuko and Hielo mopping floors. “Oh, good, you guys have met.” She said as she walks down to them.

“Actually, we met a long time ago.” Hielo said.

“We did?” Zuko asked.

“Yeah, you kind of burned down a village me and my team were stationed at 4 years ago.”

Zuko then stops mopping for a second. “Oh, sorry about that. Nice to see you again.” Zuko and Hielo then stop mopping and hide from the other guards beside a staircase with Agua.

“So, listen, I think I have an escape plan.” Agua quietly said. “I checked out the coolers again, and the point of them is to keep unicorns from using their magic, right?”

“Yeah...” Zuko said.

“So, they're completely insulated and sealed to keep the cold in. Well, to keep the cold in, it also has to keep the heat out, right?” Agua said.

“There you go again, over explaining things again.” Hielo said. “Just get to the point, Agua.”

“It's a perfect boat for getting through the boiling water.” Agua said. Zuko and Hielo then look at each other in worry.

“The cooler as a boat? Are you sure?” Zuko asked.

“I'm telling you, it'll work. I walked around the perimeter. There's a blind spot between two guard towers. It's the perfect launching point. I made an origami boat and put it in the water and it float away. We'll roll the cooler into the water and just float with the current. It'll take us straight across. As long as we don't make a sound, no one will notice. And, we're home free.”

“But how are you going to get the cooler out?” Hielo asked.

“Yeah,” Chit Sang said on the staircase, startling the trio, “how are you going to get the cooler out?” He then jumps down to them

“What? We didn't ... W-we didn't say that.” Hielo said.

“Yeah, you heard wrong.” Zuko said.

“I heard you're hatching an escape plan, and I want in.” Sang said.

“There's nothing to get in on.” Agua said.

“Yeah, the only thing we're hatching is ... an egg?” Hielo said, making Zuko and Agua sigh in disgust.

“Okay, well, I come with you or the warden hears about this egg, too.” Sang threatened.

“I guess we have no choice.” Hielo said.

“Okay, you're in.” Agua said as she gives Zuko a wrench. “Now first we need someone to unbolt the cooler, from the inside.”

“Oh, I can get you inside.” Sang said. Later, Chit Sang is standing in the hall while Zuko continues mopping. Zuko then ‘accidentally’ bumps into Chit Sang. “Hey! What are you, stupid? Watch where you're going!” He then shoves Zuko aside.

“Hey, you watch who you're shoving!” Zuko yelled.

“I think you mean whom I'm shoving!” Chit Sang said as the two begin to fight, making the crowd of prisoners they attracted cheer when Chit Sang throws Zuko to the floor.

“I need backup over here!” Agua yelled, getting the attention of some guards. Zuko then blasts some fire at Chit Sang.

“No magic of any kind!” A guard yelled. “Into the cooler!” Zuko is then taken down and escorted away by two guards.

==================================================================

The Royal Canterlot Gardens were bustling with life during the morning. Birds flew about from flower to flower or through the wondrous forest that could shade anypony from the unforgiving sun. Two Alicorns in particular happened to be taking a peaceful stroll to the expansive forest side of the gardens.

"I'm very proud of the Avatars's progress with not only their main elements, but also flight, or the sub-bending techniques." Lunar Eclipse spoke happily, his every graceful step falling in line with the Princess of the Night.

She looked at him thoughtfully, "I certainly agree with you, Lunar Eclipse, but I still worry for them, given how the Fire Nation has operatives all across the globe now." Princess Luna commented, her eyes narrowed so slightly, that only those who knew her as well as Lunar and their friends did could pick up on her public displays of emotion, "Especially Azula. That Fire Nation mare does nothing but tamper with the minds of her enemies!"

Lunar Eclipse quickly thought of a topic change, his dark eyes sparking at the thought of Firebrand, "Speaking about fire, Firebrand has really improved on his magic, despite the lack of training he has." He let the statement linger, speaking volumes about his concerns, "I still can't believe that there is still a descendent of Star Swirl the Bearded." He sighed, "It’s almost like there the same pony. Fire’ even mastered the telepathy spell without trying. And only Alicorns or Unicorns who special talent is magic can do that. He’s neither."

Luna's teal eyes immediately softened at the mention of Firebrand, "I still can’t believe it’s been 3 years since all this started." She paused momentarily to breathe deeply before slowly exhaling. "And now, the Fire Lord’s son is on our side."

"Luna ... There's no need to feel afraid to try to get back into the swing of things, even with the war going on ... After I had been gone for so long, I the Prince of Death, felt afraid to return to Equestria after being imprisoned for so long. The fear that I'd be marked and tagged as an enemy or treated as nothing more than second-rate made me feel nothing but uncertainty. Then one particular somepony came to mind that snapped me out of the haze my mind had been caught in..." Lunar Eclipse stopped talking as he leaned his front hooves over a bridge the two had started to cross over.

Princess Luna looked at him and asked, "Who was that special somepony, Lunar?" The anxiety made her all the more curious who the pony was.

He looked over the bridge at the beautiful lake thoughtfully before his honey-brown eyes locked onto her and quietly whispered a single word, "You..."

Her cheeks lit up with an explosive blush that covered every square inch of her face. Before she could answer however, they heard a small explosion coming from the court-yard. "What was that, Lunar?"

"I'm not sure." Lunar said. “I’ll go check it out. Blitz probably tried to make a new invention again.” Luna walked up to him and wrapped her front hooves around him, embracing him in a tight hug before lowering to the ground, "Don't worry about it Lunar. I’ll head back to the palace." Lunar then flew over to where the explosion came from.

Luna then walked over to the same spot he had looked over the bridge and looked at her reflection, her mind thinking over what they had just talked about. Luna found it nice that special somepony had been able to convince him to come back to Equestria without even speaking to him; that was some special somepony to grab his attention like that. Suddenly, the gears in her head spun and she blushed intensely, remembering that she was the special somepony who had given him the strength to want to return home. Return home to his people, to Canterlot, to ... her.

==================================================================

Back at the Boiling Rock, Agua opens Zuko’s cooler, the same one the that the bully guard locked Chit Sang in. Zuko is all curled up like a ball, presumably to keep warm. “I can take you back to your cell if you've learned your lesson.” Agua said.

Zuko then raises his head slightly and releases a small breath of fire to warm himself up. “Yes, I have ... completely.” Zuko then shows her that he removed all the bolts and screws.

Agua then lifts her visor and whispers, “I got Hielo and Chit Sang out of their cells a few minutes ago. They'll be waiting for us at the shore.” They then hear some footsteps coming.

“Someone's coming!” Zuko then takes Agua in and closes the door, leaving it open only slightly.

“Yeah, new arrivals coming in at dawn.” A male guard said as they walk by.

“Anypony interesting?” The female guard asked.

“Nah, just the usual. Some robbers, a couple of traitors, a few Diamond Dogs, some war prisoners,” Agua then looks at Zuko with shock and worry, “though I did hear there might be a pirate.”

“No fooling!”

“War prisoners. It could be your father.” Zuko said when the guards are out of earshot.

“I know.”

“Well, what should we do? Are we going ahead with the plan or are we waiting another night?” Zuko asked.

“I don't know! Is it right for me to risk Hielo’s freedom, all of our freedom on the slim chance that my dad is going to show up?”

“It's your call, Agua.” Zuko said.

==================================================================

That night, outside the prison, Agua and Zuko get the cooler. They then meet up with Hielo and Chit Sang. “Took you guys long enough.” All four then roll it down the hill.

“Who are they?” Zuko asked when he sees an earth pony mare and a unicorn stallion by the shore.

“This here's my girl and my best buddy, they're coming too.” Chit Sang said.

“Fine.” Agua said, clearly annoyed. “Everypony in the cooler. Let's go.” Agua said as she takes her trident out of it’s hiding place between two rocks.

“Are you sure you want to go?” Zuko asked. “You're the one who said you needed to redeem yourself. Redeem your honor. Rescuing your dad is your chance.”

“Chief Arnook?” Hielo said when he realizes that Zuko is talking about the chief of Pegasus City.

“If I had just cut my losses and came home once before my dad left, maybe we wouldn't be in this mess. Maybe sometimes it's just better to call it quits before you fail.”

“No, it's not.” Zuko said. “Look Agua, you're going to fail a lot before things work out.”

“Is that supposed to make her feel better?” Hielo said to the Fire Prince.

“Even though you'll probably fail over and over and over...” Zuko continued.

“Seriously, not helping.” Agua said.

“You have to try every time. You can't quit because you're afraid you might fail.” Zuko finished.

“Hey, if you two are done cuddling, can we get a move on?” Chit Sang said as he stand outside the cooler.

“No.” Agua said. “I'm staying. You guys go. You've been here long enough.”

“I'm not leaving without you, Agua.”

“I'm staying, too.” Hielo and Zuko said respectfully.

“Not me, I'm out.” Chit Sang said as he pusses the cooler into the boiling water. “Let's roll, baby.” He then jumps in as the current takes the cooler to the edge.

“We gave up our only chance of escaping. I hope we haven't just made a huge mistake.” Agua said as she, Zuko, and Hielo go up to the prison.

==================================================================

The next morning, the cooler holding Chit Sang, his buddy, and his girlfriend is still within the perimeter of the prison. The current escapees are sweating as the cooler slowly floats with the current. “Ah, this current is so slow. I can use this to paddle.” He then rips off a piece of the cooler. When he puts the piece of metal in the water, the improvised paddle heats up and burns his hand, causing him to scream loudly. A guard takes notice as two others hit an alarm bell.

“Guards! Secure the perimeter and lock down the prisoners! Now!” The warden yelled.

“The plan failed! They're caught!” Agua said as they make their way to where the gondolas are.

“Get the fugitives and throw them in the cooler!” The warden ordered.

“Uh ... they are in a cooler, sir.” A guard said.

“One that's bolted down and not floating in the water! This is a lockdown! We have new prisoners arriving! Everything must be completely secure!” The guard then fires a large ballista bolt, catching hold of the cooler, and drags it back toward the prison.

“The gondola's moving. This is it.” Agua said as the gondola arrives. “If my dad's not there, we've risked everything for nothing.”

“We had to.” Hielo said as he places his hoof on her shoulder. They then see a Pegasus with a tattoo and a nose ring come out.

“Is that him?” Zuko asked.

“My dad doesn't have a nose ring.” They then see several other ponies and a couple of Diamond Dogs step off, but only a few are pegasi. “Where is he?” Agua said as the last of the new arrivals step out. “That's it? That can't be it.” Agua said as she begins to cry into Hielo’s chest.

“I’m sorry, Agua.” He said.

Agua continues to cry when, “Hey, you!” A guard yelled, catching the attention of the trio. “Get off the gondola!” The then see a Pegasus stallion with a blue coat, an ice blue mane and tail, and brown eyes. His cutie mark is a trident.

Agua instantly recognizes him. “Daddy...” She managed to say.

“Line them up for the warden!” A guard said. The new prisoners, 8 in total, are filing in line, one next to the other, including Arnook. Arnook is standing at the very end of the line on the right side. Agua then walks forward and lifts her guard mask.

“Dad...“ She then exits a stairway and passes through a lineup of guards, surprising them a bit. “Excuse me, coming through, the warden wants me over there. Sorry!” She then stops behind two taller guards and sees the warden walking past the line of prisoners starting from the left.

“Welcome to the Boiling Rock. I'm sure you've all heard the horrible rumors about our little island. Well, I just want to tell you that they don't have to be true, as long as you do everything I say.” He then stops in front of Arnook who looks down. “Look me in the eye when I'm talking to you.”

Arnook than averts his gaze slightly off to the side and firmly says. “No.”

“No? You'd rather look at my hoofs?” The warden angrily said. “Then take a look!” He then raises his front left leg and drags Arnook by his hoof-cuffs down onto the floor. Arnook’s face is now expressing anger. Agua then gasps in horror. The warden is now standing over him, keeping his hoof firmly pressed on the warrior's hoof-cuffs.

“I know exactly who you are, Arnook of Pegasus City. So strong-willed. But don't worry, we'll get rid of that in time. Now look me in the eye!” Arnook then reluctantly lifts his head to look the warden in the eye and glares hatefully at him. “See, isn't that better? You will all do as I say or pay the price. You will all-” But before the warden could finish, he was walking when Arnook lift his left hoof-cuff slightly, tripping the warden and causing him to fall flat on the ground. Agua stifles a laugh, as the two guards she was standing behind rush to aid the warden.

“Are you okay, sir?”

“I'm fine!” The warden snapped. “Get these prisoners out of my sight!” He then storms away impatiently. The prisoners then file one behind the other and are led down a stairwell into the prison hold. Agua then runs inside.

==================================================================

Later, inside Arnook's cell, he is siting on his mattress, his face buried in his front legs. He then sees a sliver of light as the doorway to the cell is opened. Arnook raises his head to see who has entered. Agua then walks in, still dressed as a guard. “Thank goodness you're okay.” She said.

Arnook then rises quickly and gets into a fighting stance. “If you take one step closer, you'll see just how ‘okay’ I am.”

“Dad, it's me.” Agua said as she takes off her helmet.

Arnook then softens up and grows teary-eyed. “Agua.” The two then hug. “My daughter. You know Agua, you should be more careful with that guard outfit on. I almost punched you in the gut.”

“Yeah, I almost ran into that already.”

==================================================================

Meanwhile, in a dimly lit corridor, Chit Sang is sitting inside an interrogation room, cuffed to a wooden chair. The warden then walks into the room. “Are you comfortable, Chit Sang?” The warden calmly said.

“If you're trying to get me to talk, forget it! I'm not a squealer!” Chit Sang snapped.

“Chit Sang, I only asked if you were comfortable.”

“Well, yeah, actually I am comfortable.” Chit Sang brightly said.

The warden, in a fit of anger, kicks the chair to the ground. Chit Sang’s face is now pressed against the ground. The warden then walks up to Chit Sang. “Are you still comfortable?”

“No.”

“I know you and your cronies are not smart enough to come up with that little escape plan. So you're going to tell me ... who is?” The warden said as he leaves as two guards hoist the chair upwards and set it on the ground. One of the guards then closes the door.

==================================================================

Back at Arnook’s cell, Agua is looking through the open slit in the cell door, averting his eyes in different directions to make sure that no one is in hearing distance. “So where's Balto? Where's everyone else from when you were captured?”

“The others are being held at a prison near the Fire Nation palace.” Arnook said. “They singled me out as their leader and sent me here.” Agua then comes by her father and sits down next to him. “But before I left, I met up with the Ice Knights.”

“Their leader Hielo is here and he's going to escape with us.” Agua said.

“I bet your glad to see him again.” Arnook said, knowing his daughter and the leader of the Ice Knight were dating when he left to fight the war.

“Yeah.”

“Good. We'll need all the help we can get.” Arnook said as he places his hoof on Agua’s shoulders.

“And you know Prince Zuko?” Agua asked.

“The son of the Fire Lord? I don't know him, but I know of him.” Arnook replied.

“Well, he's here too.”

“Sounds like a major problem.” Arnook said.

“Actually, he's on our side now.” Arnook then gives his daughter a suspicious look. “I know. I had the same reaction. After all he's done, it was hard to trust him. But he's really proven himself, and I never would've found you without his help.” Arnook then nod in understanding.

“So, do you have a plan?” He asked.

“We had one, but some of the other prisoners got involved and ruined it.” Agua said, downcast. “I don't know if there's another way off this island.”

“Agua, there's no prison in the world that can hold two Pegasus City geniuses.”

“Then we'd better find two.” Agua said, causing the two to laugh.

==================================================================

Later, Agua approaches a cell door and averts her gaze alertly. She then lifts her helmet mask and peers into the slit of a cell doorway. “Zuko, are you there?” She said in a hushed voice.

“I'm here.” Zuko said when he gets up to the door.

“I just got done talking to my dad. We came up with a new escape plan together.”

“What are you doing here?” A guard asked Agua, startling her. Agua then turns around, pulling down her helmet mask. She sees two guards standing on the stairwell.

“I was just telling this dirty lowlife what I think of him!” Agua lied.

“Well, you'll have to do that later. He's coming with us.” The male guard said.

“Why?” Agua asked, puzzled.

“Because we have orders straight from the warden, that's why!” The female guard said.

“Could I just get ten more seconds to rough him up a bit?” Agua asked.

“Fine, ten-seconds.” The female guard said. Agua then enters Zuko’s cell.

“Take that ... and this!” Agua said as punching noises are heard from the cell.

“Newbie.” The male guard said, amused.

In the cell, Zuko is holding a bundled-up mattress, while Agua lands several blows it. The two are also faking the entire scenario. Zuko shouts a few times in mock pain. “We have a new plan, but it's going to need a big distraction.” Agua said in a hushed voice. “Be in the yard in one hour.”

They then see a sliver of light as the cell door is opened. Agua then suddenly grabs Zuko and begins to wrestle him to look convincing as the two guards enter. “All right, that's enough.” The male guard said as he separates the two.

Zuko is then escorted out of the cell by the guards while Agua remains behind. In another hallway, the Zuko is being dragged to an interrogation room. “What are you doing? Where are you taking me?” Zuko said as he is thrown into a chair in an interrogation room. “I didn't do anything wrong!”

“Come on, Zuko.” An annoyed earth pony mare with a light tan coat and a black mane, and a shuriken for a cutie mark. “We all know that's a lie.”

“Mai!” A shocked Zuko said.

==================================================================

Meanwhile, the warden enters the room in which Chit Sang is in. “How is he?” He asked the two guards who are still holding Sang upside down. Sang’s face is now red and strained.

“I think he's ready to talk.” One of the guards said. They then toss the chair forward toward the warden back to a normal position. Chit Sang then inhales deeply a few times, his face slowly returning to its normal color, sweat dripping down his face.

“Have you had enough time to think about what I've asked?” The warden said.

“Yes.” Chit Sang answered.

“And?” The warden eagerly said.

“You're right. There was another pony involved in the escape plan.”

“Who?”

“It's a gay who's disguised like a prison guard. Only the gay’s not a prison guard. That Pegasus, or Earth Pony traitor, is the mastermind. That fake guard came up with the plan.” The warden then smiles slyly, pats Chit Sang on the head and exits. Chit Sang manages to maintain a cold-hard expression.

==================================================================

Back at the prison cell where Zuko is at, he is siting in the chair slumped over as Mai stands over him. “How did you know I was here?”

“Because I know you so well, Zuko.”

“But, how-”

“The warden's my uncle, you idiot.” Mai said, causing Zuko to sigh. Mai then shows him the letter. “The truth is, I guess I don't know you. All I get is a letter? You could have at least looked me in the eye when you ripped out my heart.”

“I didn't mean to-”

“You didn't mean to?” Mai then begins to read the letter. "’Dear Mai, I'm sorry you had to find out this way, but I'm leaving.’”

“Stop! This isn't about you. This is about the Fire Nation!” Zuko said.

“Thanks Zuko, that makes me feel all better.” Mai sarcastically said as she throws the letter at Zuko.

Zuko then stands up. “Mai, I never wanted to hurt you. But I have to do this to save my country.”

“Save it? You're betraying your country!”

“That's not how I see it.” Mai then looks away from him and folds her legs like Applejack does.

==================================================================

Meanwhile, in Hielo's cell, he is practicing his fighting moves when Agua walks in. “Agua, what's going on?”

“I don't have much time. If the guards see me with you, they might think something's up.” Agua then walks over to the door and peers outside. “I just talked to my dad.”

“That's great.”

“Yeah, and we're escaping today, on the gondola.”

“What?”

“My dad and I came up with the plan together. We're going to commandeer the gondola and we're going to take a hostage with us so they won't cut the lines.” Agua said.

“We'll never make it onto the gondola. There's too many guards.”

“The chief already thought of that. He said we'll need a distraction. That's why we're going to start a prison riot.”

“Okay, let's say by some miracle this all works and you make it on the gondola. The warden will still just cut the lines, even if we have a captive.” Hielo said out of concern.

“Not if the warden is the captive.” The two then hear a nearby noise. “I have to go.” Before she leaves, Agua kisses Hielo on the lips. “I'll find you when we start the riot.” She then looks around to make sure no one is around and leaves the cell.

“Hey, you, the warden wants to see you!” A guard called out.

“Why?” Agua said.

“Look kid, I know your from one of the colonies and you new, but I don't know, I didn't ask.”

“Maybe I could schedule another time with him? How's tomorrow?” Agua said as she leaves, only to be stopped by two guards who carry her to the yard.

“He wants to see you ... now.” The first guard said.

==================================================================

In the yard, a lineup of guards (both male and female), the warden, and Chit Sang are present. “Put her in the lineup.” The warden said as the two guard put Agua with the other guards and removes her helmet. “One of you is an impostor from the colonies who thought he or she could fool me.” Chit Sang then steps forward. “But now, that pony is going to be in a lot of trouble. Who is it?”

Chit Sang then points to one of the guards, the one who bullied him yesterday. “That's him, warden. He's the impostor!”

“What?” The bully guard said as the warden smiles evilly and walks away. The bully then grabs Chit Sang by his garb. “I am not!” Chit Sang just raises his front hoofs nonchalantly in defense. “He's lying!” Other guards then grab him and drag him off. “He's a liar!” Chit Sang then turns and smiles slyly at Agua, who looks on and breathes a sigh of relief.

==================================================================

Later, the bully guard in an interrogation room surrounded by two guards. The warden stands in front him. “I'm telling you ... it wasn't me!” The bully protested.

“Save your breath! I know you were working together. You threw Chit Sang in the very cooler they used to escape, it was all part of your plan.”

“That was just a coincidence!” The door then opens and one of the guards is completely terrified by who it is.

“Sir, there's someone to see you.” He said.

“Who told you to interrupt me?” The warden angrily said, only for his expression to change from anger to fear. He then bows upon seeing who it is. It’s Azula and Ty lee.

“I did.” Azula said.

“Princess Azula.” The warden said, clearly scared. “It is an honor to welcome you to the Fire Nation's most exemplary prison.” He then stands up. “I didn't realize you were coming.”

Azula then notices the guard in the chair. “Who is this?”

“He's a guard who was involved in a recent and feeble escape attempt.” The warden said.

“It wasn't me!” The bully guard desperately said.

“Quiet, you!” The warden said.

“You're wasting your time. That's not one of them.” Azula said as she turns and starts to leave. The warden turns and looking surprised, and confused, and looks from Azula to the guard, and then back to Azula again.

“How do you know?” The warden asked.

“Because I know ponies.” Azula said while smiling sinisterly.

==================================================================

In the hall, Agua approaches a guard who’s in charge of the cell doors. “Hey, I just got orders. Let the prisoners out into the yard.” Agua lied to the guard.

“But we're in the middle of a lockdown.”

“Oh, okay, I'll just tell the warden you said that.” Agua said as she walks off as the guard raises his mask and looks at her, speechless. “I'm sure he'll be glad to hear about you undermining his authority. What's your name again?” She said as she looks back and opens her visor.

“Wait!” The guard said as he starts to sweat while horrified. “Don't tell the warden. I'm just a little confused.”

“Hey, I'm confused too, but the warden is in a bad mood, and ... irrational, so if you ask me, it's best not to question it, and do what he says.” Agua lied.

“Yeah ... you're right.” The guard said as he pulls the leaver that opens all the cell doors. “We're letting them out!” The prisoners then head for the yard. The prisoners mingle in the yard, where Agua, Hielo, and Arnook meet.

“This is it! We have to start a riot.” Hielo said.

“Okay. But how do we do that?” Agua asked.

“I'll show you.” Arnook then shoves a Diamond Dog prisoner.

“Hey! What'd you do that for? That hurt my feelings.” The Diamond Dog said.

“Arn’t you mad at me?” Arnook asked.

“Uh, well, normally I would be, but I've learned to control my anger.” The dog said.

“This isn't working.” Agua said. Just then, Chit Sang places his hoof on her shoulder.

“Hey you! You're lucky I didn't rat you out,” he then smiles, “but my generosity comes with a price. I know you're planning another escape attempt, and I want in.”

Hielo then gets an idea. “Actually, we're trying to escape right now, but we need a riot.” Hielo then points to him. “You wouldn't happen to know how to start one, would you?”

“A prison riot?” Sang said. “Please.” He then grabs a smaller prisoner and lifts him in the air, bouncing him up and down. “Hey!” He yelled, getting all the prisoners to look at him. “Riot!” A riot then begins as several blasts of magic go off.

“Impressive.” Arnook said while Agua and Hielo stare dumbfounded.

“Forget about controlling my anger...” The Diamond Dog that Arnook shoved said. “Let's riot!” He is then taken down by another prisoner as the riot goes into full swing.

On a nearby balcony, the warden sees what is going on. “Who let these prisoners into the yard? This is supposed to be a lockdown!” The door guard then looks at the warden, horrified. He puts his back against the wall and sneaks away.

==================================================================

In the interrogation room Zuko and Mai are in, a guard runs in. “Ma'am, there's a riot going on! I'm here to protect you!” He said to Mai.

“I don't need any protection.”

Zuko then chuckles slightly. “Believe me, she doesn't.” He proudly said.

“I'm sorry, but I'm under direct orders from your uncle to make sure nothing happens.” Zuko then gives him a serious look before he blasts fire at the guard and starts to run toward the door. The guard jumps in front of Mai to shield her.

“Get off of me!” Mai said as she tosses the guard aside. Zuko then exits and closes the door, trapping Mai and the guard in the room. He looks at Mai through the slit in the door with regret before running off. Back in the yard, he reaches everyone else and slams down another guard as the riot continues.

“Zuko! Good, we're all here.” Agua said as Zuko gives Agua her trident. “Thanks.”

“Now all we need to do is grab the warden, and get to the gondolas!” Hielo said.

“And how do we do that?” Zuko asked.

“Were not sure.” Arnook said.

Zuko then groans. “I thought you thought this through!”

“I thought you told Agua it's okay not to think everything through!” Hielo said.

“Maybe not everything, but this is kind of important!” Zuko said.

“Hey, uh, Hielo, was it? I think your girlfriend's taking care of it.” Chit Sang said. They then see Agua hop up on the heads of the rioters, then jump and flip onto the tower. She easily defeats the first guard with a few quick jabs. Two more guards arrive. She ducks a whip and sweeps the first one and then dodges the second one's whip and continues to climb the tower. She makes it up to the top and defeats the last guard with a sliding kick. She then grabs the warden by the hoof.

“You wouldn't dare.” The warden said.

Agua then ties his hoofs together and uses his headband as a gag. “Sorry, warden. You're my prisoner now.” She then slams the warden against the wall and dumps her guard uniform as the others arrive. “We've got the warden! Now let's get out of here!” She said. Arnook and Hielo are the only ones not out of breath because they flew up, while Zuko and Chit Sang are out of breath due to running up.

“That's my girl.” Arnook said.

“Tell me about it.” Hielo proudly said. They then make a run for the gondola.

“We're almost there!” Agua said, only to get stopped by some guards holding flame throwers.

“Back off!” Zuko said. “We've got the warden!” The then guards see the warden on Chit Sang's shoulder, bound and gagged, and clear the way. “Let's go!” They continue along their path, cautiously watching the guards so they do not try any sudden moves. They arrive at the gondola. Agua then opens the door.

“Everyone in!” She said as Zuko starts the gondola and kicks the handle a few times attempting to break it. He then sees the guards rushing toward him and kicks the handle again and breaks it. He jumps toward the gondola while dodging the guards fire blasts. Agua then grabs Zuko's hoof and helps him into the gondola.

“What are you doing?” Hielo asked.

“I'm making it so they can't stop us.” Zuko answered.

“Way to think ahead.” Hielo said. He then gets a kiss on the check from Agua.

“We're on our way!” She excitedly said.

“Wait!” Arnook said, getting the others attention. “Who's that?” Agua, Hielo and Zuko look out and see Azula and Ty Lee at the gondola station.

“That's a problem. It's my sister and her friend.” Zuko said as Ty Lee leaps up and climbs the line. Azula takes a pair of hoof-cuffs from a guard. After elevating herself to the line with her lightning gun, she uses the cuffs to attach herself to the line, and blasts up it using her flamethrower, that's now shooting blue fire.

“This is a rematch I've been waiting for.” Hielo said, determined.

“Me too.” Zuko said as they go to the roof of the gondola with Agua, who goes elemental.

Hielo then notices that his girlfriend is now different. “I’ll explain later.” Agua said as Azula and Ty Lee get closer. Azula then blasts fire, but Zuko blocks it. Ty Lee and Hielo trade blows at one another, but neither can land. Zuko continues to wipe out Azula's fire blasts. Agua draws her back to the edge with her trident.

Zuko goes in for a finish, but Azula dodges Zuko's blast and stays on the gondola. She then counters with a wide blast from her flamethrower. Meanwhile, the warden attempts to free himself while the other prisoners are distracted. A male guard watches from a telescope. “There's the warden! I see him!” He said.

The warden then frees himself and yells, “Cut the line!” Chit Sang then notices and gags the warden again.

“He wants us to cut the line.” The guard holding the telescope said.

“But if we cut the line, there's no way he'll survive!” Another guard said.

The guard with the telescope then puts it up. “He knows that.”

The guards then stop the gondola by jabbing a sword at the cable wheel. The force sends Hielo to the edge of the gondola, but Zuko pulls him in at the last moment. Ty Lee jumps up to the top of the wire to see what is happening. “They're about to cut the line, Azula!” Lee said as the guard use a large saw to cut the thick steel line.

Azula then notices another gondola approaching on the other wire, heading inbound, and smirks. “Then it's time to leave.” She then uses her lightning gun to jump to the other gondola along with Ty Lee. “Goodbye, Zuko.”

“They're cutting the line! The gondola's about to go!” Chit Sang said to Arnook as they look at the boiling water.

“I hope this thing floats.” Arnook said, knowing that all pegasi prisoners are given weights that ground them so they can’t fly.

At the station, the guards are almost finished when they are suddenly pinned to a metal wall by stilettos by the cuffs of their uniforms. “What are you doing?” A guard said to the source of the stilettos, Mai.

“Saving the jerk who dumped me.” Mai said as other guards try to attack Mai, but she pins them all down. She releases the block on the line, allowing the gondola to continue in motion. Everyone looks back to see what happened.

“Who is that?” Arnook asked.

They then see Mai continue to fight off guards and turns her head to see the others. “It's Mai!” Zuko said, shocked.

“What is she doing?” Azula angrily said as she gets closer to Mai. Ty Lee then shrugs as they watch her continue to fight off guards. The gondola makes it to the top of the hill and everyone leaves. Chit Sang holds the warden and throws him back in when Arnook points at it.

“Sorry, warden. Your record is officially broken.” He then follows the others.

“Well, we made it out. Now what?” Chit Sang asked. Zuko then stops when he realizes something.

“Zuko, what are you doing?” Hielo said.

“My sister was on that island.”

“Yeah, and she's probably right behind us, so let's not stop!” Agua reminded him.

“What I mean is she must have come here somehow.” He then walks up to a large hill by the sea. “There!” He then points to a large Royal Airship. “That's our way out of here!”

==================================================================

Back at the Boiling Rock, Mai is detained by two guards, while Ty Lee stands on Azula's side, looking terrified and concerned at the two. “Leave us alone.” Azula said to the guards. The guards then give the Fire Nation salute and leave. “I never expected this from you. The thing I don't understand is ‘Why?’. Why would you do it? You knew the consequences.”

“I guess you just don't know me as well as you think you do. You miscalculated. I love Zuko more than I fear you.” Mai said, enraging Azula.

“No, you miscalculated! You should have feared me more!” Azula said as she draws our her lightning gun while Mai pulls out some stilettos. But just as Azula is about to shoot Mai, Ty Lee blocks Azula's chi, causing Azula to fall to the ground, and leaving Mai shocked.

Ty Lee then runs up to Mai. “Come on! Let's get out of here!” But they are quickly surrounded by guards and captured.

“You're both fools!” Azula said as she is helped up by the guards.

“What shall we do with them, princess?” A guard asked.

“Put them somewhere I'll never have to see their faces again, and let them rot!” Azula yelled, with a slight amount of insanity in her voice.

==================================================================

Back in Canterlot, the main six, the CMC, Shining, Cadence, Celestia, Luna and Lunar, accompanied by some guards, see Agua and Zuko exit the balloon with Arnook, Hielo and Chit Sang. “Me and Hielo here are new. What’s up, everypony?” Sang said while waving.

“Agua, Zuko. Where did you go? What happened to the war balloon?” Twilight asked.

“I’s a long story.” Agua said as Hielo places his hoof over her shoulder.

“Who’s he?” Candace asked.

“This is Hielo, leader of the Ice Knight of Pegasus City, and my old boyfriend.”

“Sound like you had one heck of a trip.” Apple Bloom said, causing everypony to laugh.

Chapter 8, Unexpected Arrival

The Elements of Nature
Book 3: 气 (Air)
Chapter 8, Unexpected Arrival

At the Canterlot train station, some new ponies arrive from places like White Tail Woods or other rural areas near Canterlot. Some of the new arrivals are Pegasi from Cloudsdale. One is a zebra by the name of Zecora. “So, this is Canterlot, I see.” She said upon arriving. “Now, to find my friends of pony.”

As Zecora leaves, a unicorn around Firebrand's age with a black mane, a gold coat, brown eyes, and a fishing rod for a cutie mark, gets off the train. He is also wearing a jacket that has a gray and white pattern on it. He is also pulling a blue ice chest that has an attachment for holding fishing rods that has a bird cage on it that's covered. It’s the same one Deker ran into at White Tail Woods.

“Finally, I have arrived.” He said as he looks at Canterlot. “Wait until they get a load of me!” He said to nopony in particular. “This’ll be golden, baby!” He then notices that his pet, a male phoenix that has gold and silver feathers instead of the usual red and yellow, is peeking out of his cage. “Not yet buddy.” The unicorn said. The little gold phoenix then hides back in its cage while the gold unicorn looks at Canterlot with a smile.

==================================================================

At a local market place, Team Avatar (mainly the main six, Firebrand, Zuko, Agua, her boyfriend Hielo, Terra, Blitz, Ar, the CMC, Shining Armor and Cadance) is waiting for a certain zebra. “When is this Zecora gonna get here any way?” Blitz asked.

“Soon.” Twilight answered. “She should have arrived her about five minutes ago.”

“Ago, is not what I had in mind.” A familiar voice in an African accent said. “Thou, I would like some cocoa, if you're so kind.” The group turn around and see Zecora coming their way.

Blitz then blushes while Fire’ says. “What in the who now?”

“This is Zecora, I presume.” Shining asked his little sister.

“Yep. That’s her.”

“She’s not what I expected.” Blitz said while still blushing.

“What do you mean, dean?” Zecora said while mocking Blitz at the same time, causing the group to laugh.

“Hey! I’ve seen plenty of zebras back in the good old USA. But, they don’t have the same style you do.” Blitz argued.

Just then, Fire’ turns around all the sudden, scaring the group, especially Twilight. “Something wrong?” Twilight asked.

“I thought I felt something.” Fire’ said. “Like something watching me.”

“It is important to trust one instincts.” Zecora said. “How about you all show me the rest of the precincts.”

After taking a moment to translate what Zecora said, the group then head for the castle. Right when they leave, the gold unicorn from the station walks onto a bridged that is over a river. “Now I can move on to more important business.” He said as he begins to set up shop.

==================================================================

Back at the castle, Twilight is talking to Celestia about Zecora’s stay while she’s visiting. “Okay. She’ll stay in the tower for now.” Celestia said.

“So. Are all zebras like Zecora?” Zuko asked. The only one who has met more than one zebra is Blitz.

“Not exactly, they all have the mohawk mane, but the females only have that type of tail.” Blitz said, remembering when he meet an entire family of zebras in the lowlands once. Just then they hear something hit a nearby balcony. Shining goes to see what hit, and sees an arrow that has a note attached to it.

==================================================================

At the market place, the gold unicorn is the one who shot the arrow. “Bullseye!” He said as he undoes one of his fishing rods that he used as a bow.

==================================================================

Shining then shows the group what he found. “What is it?” Pinkie asked.

“It’s a message, windbag.” Blitz said to her.

“Oh, that makes much more sense.” Pinkie said, not all insulted. “What does it say?”

“It just says, see you soon.” Shining said.

“See you soon? Another changeling attack?” Rainbow said.

“Not here anymore.” Celestia said. “All of Canterlot is now protected by a shield that now counteracts their shapeshifting spell.”

“And there doing a good job.” Hielo said as he takes the arrow with the note from Shining’s magic grip. “I mean, someone or something shot this arrow.” He then sniffs the arrow. “Theres something fishy about this.”

“Obviously.” Agua said.

“No.” Hielo corrected his girlfriend. “There really is something fishy about this.” He then gives the arrow to Agua. “Smell.” Agua then smells it, only to turn away quickly out of disgust.

==================================================================

Later that night, Fire,’ Zuko, Hielo, and Shining is in the library. Fire’ is reading a copy of Astronomical Astronomer's Almanac to All Things Astronomy. What they don’t realize is that right behind Fire’ is a dark green floating blob with an eye. Fire’ then gets the feeling of being watch and turns around quickly, sword in hoof. But the blob is gone. “Where are you?”

“Fire,’ what’s up?” Hielo asked.

“I sensed something! I know I did!” Fire’ said as he inches quietly to a curtain. He opens it, and a small flock of birds come flying in, scaring all the guys before the bird's head back out.

“Don’t scare us like that!” Zuko said to Fire,’ clearly annoyed.

“There was something otherworldly here. I know it.” Fire’ said as Lunar Eclipse walks in to see what the screaming was all about.

“Look, Fire.’” He began to say as Twilight walks behind Fire’ along with her friends and Zecora. “We all know it’s impotent to trust you instincts. But, I don’t feel another presence.” Just then, Fire’ feels something go across his face. He then slashes his sword at it, and nearly hits Fluttershy in the nose.

Fire’ then notices what nearly happened. “Sorry, Fluttershy.” He said as he moves to another room. He then feels something behind him and slashes again.

While doing so, the others, now accompanied by Agua, Celestia, Cadence, Terra, Luna, Arnook and the CMC, are watching. “He sure has that flipping out thing down hard, huh?” Hielo said.

“Anyone else feel anything?” Luna asked.

==================================================================

At the Changeling hive, in a chamber that connects to the throne room, a changeling with blue eyes is looking at a mirror. He also has white mystic lines on his body, signifying he’s a warlock. He also has a fox’s skin tied around his neck like a cape. “Mirror, mirror on his wall.” He began to say. “Who's the most freaked out unicorn of them all.”

In the mirror, he sees Fire’ enter a bathroom. “I could've sworn something was there.” Fire’ said as he looks in the mirror.

“This should feed his paranoia.” He said as he waves his leg.

==================================================================

In the bathroom in Canterlot, Fire’ feels something go across his face again. He then turns on the faucet and splashes some water on his face. He then realizes something. “It’s gone.” He said when he realized that the strange feeling of being watched is gone.

==================================================================

The next morning, the group, minus Firebrand, Zecora, Arnook, Celestia, Luna, Cadance, and Lunar Eclipse, are back at the market where Fire’ first felt something. “Okay, this is where Fire’ first felt something.” Shining said.

“Somepony shot that arrow from here also. You can see the balcony it hit at.” Hielo pointed out.

“Let’s take a look around.” Shining said. They then head for the bridge where the gold unicorn is at.

The gold unicorn is now giving away flyers for his business. “Fresh fish, cocked or raw! Listen up, I do it all!” The gold unicorn said as he gives away flyers to any ponies who happen to passed by. Agua then walks by and she is given a flyer by the unicorn. “Hey, sweetheart, you wanna by some fish?” He said as Agua continues to walk by.

Agua then looks at the flyer. It’s has a koi fish in the center with the words ‘Coming soon’ written on it. She then notices something familiar. “Hey, Rarity. Do you still have that paper that came with the arrow?” She said.

“Yeah, it’s right here.” Rarity said as she uses he magic to give Agua the note. They then compare the two and see a resemblance.

“The writing.” Agua began to say. “It’s the same!”

“Well, that’s fishy.” Blitz said as the see the gold unicorn and his grill that has fish on it. The gold unicorn then says, ‘Here you go, Bonita’ to a mare that comes by. “Lets pay him a visit.”

Rainbow then grabs the flyer while Applejack takes the note. “Make these flyers yourself?” Rainbow asked the unicorn.

“Yep.” The gold unicorn said. “I’m a one pony business.”

“Well, it a lot nicer to have one-handed to you then shot at you.” Applejack said as she shows him the note.

“Oh, that's for sure, cowgirl.” The unicorn said. His eyes then widen with realization. “What?” He asked as the other walk up to him, all of them on the ground for once. “Your ... NO!” He began to say. “You gonna ruin my big moment!” The unicorn then notices his smaller ice box and kicks it over, spilling the ice and some fish, causing the group to slip and fall.

The unicorn then seizes his chance and takes some of his things with magic as he pulls his blue ice chest and makes a run for it. “He’s so fast!” Apple Bloom said as they see the unicorn run across the 50 foot bridge in 10 seconds flat. “He’s even faster than you, Applejack!”

“I think your right, Apple Bloom.” Applejack said after she spits out a fish. “Yuck. Why do some ponies eat those things?”

Twilight’s cellphone then rings. “Hello?” She asked.

“Twilight.” The caller, Cadance, said. “I just found a note from Firebrand. He’s heading for the sacred spring near the edge of Canterlot. It probably has something to do with what he’s been sensing. Luna and Lunar already went after him.”

“Fire’ went to the sacred spring on his own!” Twilight said. “We’ll get there as soon as we can.” Twilight then hangs up.

“Twilight, you, me, Blitz, Terra, Ar, Rainbow, Zuko, Pinkie, and AJ will go.” Shining said. “The rest of you go after the fish guy.” The group then split up.

==================================================================

At the changeling hive, the wizard changeling sees Fire’ arrive at the sacred spring. The spring is surrounded by a forest that's like the Everfree Forest, only lest dense. Theres also a mysteries mist coming from the water. “So, Vulpes” Medizinisch asked. “You have any luck spying on the Fire Avatar?”

“Luck?” The changeling known as Vulpes said. “Try skill. It’s tricky now ‘cause the Fire Avatar can scene me, but my enchanted eye will see all. Oh, it gives me evil fuzzes all over.” He said as he rubs himself.

“Fuzzes smuzzes!” An annoyed Medizinisch said. “All I care about is him learning that sealing spell. If he learns it, Queen Chrysalis will be sealed away to who knows where for good. And without an heir, were all be done for!”

“Don’t get your tentacles you call a beard in a twist.” Vulpes said. He then notices something interesting. “Oh, looks like he’s practicing the spell right now.”

“He’s doing it! Really!”

“See for your self, Noodle Face.” Vulpes said.

“Now were seeing eye to eye.” They then see Fire’ do a fire breath. They then see some steam. “Whats wrong?” Medizinisch asked. “Looks like smoke has gotten into your all-seeing eye.”

“This can’t be!”

Eventually, the smoke clears. “I spy with my little eye ... nothing.” Medizinisch said.

“WHERE DID HE GO!?” Vulpes said as he picks up his mirror. He then gets up. “I’ll go take care of him myself! Nuts!” He said as he heads for Canterlot.

“I want results!” Medizinisch yelled.

==================================================================

At the streets of Canterlot, Fluttershy, the CMC, Rarity, Agua and Hielo are still after the gold unicorn. They then stop for a breather. “We’ll never catch him!” An exhausted Agua said. “He’s too fast!”

“I’ll try to cut him off.” Hielo said, “The rest of you keep chasing him.” Hielo then takes an alleyway while the other try to chase him. The gold unicorn goes by an alleyway, right when Hielo get to the other end. Hielo then realizes that he just went by, and flies after him still.

==================================================================

In the frosts near the spring, Shining, Twilight, Blitz, Terra, Ar, Rainbow, Zuko, Pinkie, and Applejack are running throw the forest when they meet Luna and Lunar. “Sure am glade to see you.” Shining said.

“Likewise. Let’s keep moving. The spring is just up ahead.” Luna said as the run and/or fly to the spring.

Meanwhile, the changeling Vulpes comes out of a portal, holding his magic eye. “I can’t believe they forced me to come to this vile, yet love filled, land.” Vulpes said as he looks at his mirror. Just then, a trail of flame comes by and takes the mirror. “MY ENCHANTED EYE!” The fire then takes the shape of Firebrand. “Give me back my mirror!”

“Fire’!” Twilight called out as her group make it there, with Ar, Blitz, and Terra in their elemental forms.

“Good thing we found you, mate!” Blitz said as they surround Vulpes.

“This must be the thing Fire’ said he’s been sensing this whole time.” Shining said as he draws out a blade.

“12 on 1 is not fair!” Vulpes said.

“Neither is secretly watching us. But luckily, I saw throw you little trick.” Fire’ said. “When I splash water on my face, the presence I felt went away. I then knew that this the one pace I can truly hide from you.”

“Aw nuts!” Vulpes said out of frustration.

“Of course!” Ar said when she dawned on something. “The water in most areas is far more pure than the evil Death Water the changelings need to stay alive without love.”

“And the water from the sacred spring must have canceled out the creepy changelings spell completely!” Blitz said.

“Right.” Fire’ said as he take the mirror in is magic and lifts it up in the air slightly. “He’ fooled Shining’s shield, but not us.” He then slashes the mirror clean in half.

“NO! MY MIRROR!” Vulpes yelled. “And I never got a chance to see you practice that selling spell!”

“So that is what you were after.” Luna said as the entire group prepare to attack.

“Who cares!” Vulpes said as he prepares a spell. “Your still going down! You all never meet a changeling like me before!” He then cast the spell he calls ‘Fox Cyclone.’

A tornado forms, picking up the group and dropping them on a cliff nearby. “I did not see that coming!” Blitz said.

“We’re gonna need the others to out fox this creep.” Fire’ said as the get up. “Where are they?”

“There still chasing after that fishy arrow guy.” Pinkie said.

“The what?”

“I’ll call Agua to see where they are.” Twilight said as she gets out he phone.

==================================================================

In an alleyway, Agua’s phone begins to ring. “Hello?”

“Agua,” Twilight said over the phone, “Forget that guy you were chasing. We need help down here now!” Twilight told her.

“Good, ‘cause he kinda made that choice for us.” Agua said as she hangs up. “They need us at the sacred spring. Lets go.” They then leave, not noticing the unicorn they were chasing leaving his hiding place from behind a garbage can.

“Man, this sounds like the perfect time for my big moment!” He excitedly said before following them.

==================================================================

In the forest surrounding the lake, the fight with Vulpes is still going down. “Fire Flight!” He said as he cast his next spell; balls of green fire fly all around the group. Firebrand manages to get by, but falls to the ground, literately a foot in front of Vulpes. “You saw throw my plans,” Vulpes said to Fire’ as he conjures up a sword, “but all my spells have finally taken their toll. Your finished!” He then prepares to attack when a lighting bolt hits him, sending him back.

Fire’ turns around and sees, “Princes Celestia?” Fluttershy, the CMC, Rarity, Agua and Hielo then join up with them. Celestia also has the Elements of Harmony with her and gives then to their receptive wielders.

“You know what to do.” Celestia said to Twilight. Twilight and the other main six then do an attack on Vulpes, like the one they did to Discord.

But before the attack hits. “Nuts! Fox Reflection Steel!” Vulpes said. A dark green portal then opes in front of him. The attack then disappear, along with the portal.

“WHAT!”

“NO WAY!” Rainbow and Applejack said respectfully. The portal then opens again, right behind the group, hitting them, but not turning them to stone.

“Ha!” Vulpes said as he does another spell. “Right Back At Ya!” He said as he copies the attack and slashes it at the group. The group then fall back a few feet, except for the CMC, who go to their sides.

“What ... just happened?” Zuko said in between grunts.

“Hahahaha! I have thousands of mirror spells!” Vulpes said, not noticing Pinkie shivering, meaning her Pinkie Scenes is telling her that a doozy is about to happen. “I can handle what ever you throw my way! But I know you won’t handle what I’m about to throw at YOU!” He then prepares to attack, when...

“Catch of the day!” The gold unicorn said as he throws some small fish at Vulpes, having the same effect as shuriken, causing Vulpes to loss his concentration and balance. The group then look at the unicorn with curiosity on their faces. “How about what I throw at you?” He then looks at the group and raises his legs up like a performer. “Now this ... is a big moment. Man this’ll be so golden. Now let's do this!” He said as he takes on a fighting stance.

“What?” Vulpes asked.

“Who's this guy?” Hielo asked.

“Thats the guy you were chasing!” Shining said when he recognizes him.

“What is he doing?” Luna asked.

“What ever he’s doing, it’s a do-o-oz-z-z-y.” Pinkie said during her shivers.

“What ever he’s gonna do, he’s gonna get taken apart if he goes up against the changeling.” Celestia said as the gold unicorn reaches for something in his jacket.

He then takes out a silver cellphone and opens it. The screen shows the symbols for the Elements of Nature, before showing a gold symbol for fire (火). “Avatar Morpher! Gold Power!” He called out. Once he said that, he presses the central button, which initiates a transformation. The unicorn’s body then becomes gold fire, while his mane, tail, and hoofs (which are all black) become silver fire. He also now has a gold and silver tantō. Once the transformation is done, he raises one hoof in the air and yells. “Gold is Good to Go!”

The group then just look at him in disbelief. “Thats it?” The Gold Fire pony asked.”No ‘thanks for helping’? Or a little ‘what, what’? Okay, I get it, you need a minute. What can I say, when I make an entrance, it’s go big, or go home, am I right?”

“Let me ask this again.” Hielo said, completely confused. “Who is this guy?”

“Wow. He’s so sparkly.” Sweetie Belle commented.

“Don’t worry about this one.” The unicorn said. “Levee this to me.” He then jumps down in between the group and Vulpes.

“Aw, come on!” Vulpes said. “Now there's six of you Avatars!”

“Bastion Yorsets never said anything about a Gold Fire Avatar.” Celestia said.

“Ar?” Firebrand asked.

“I know nothing about him. Nothing at all.” Ar said.

“I say we’ve done enough talking.” The mysteries unicorn said as he takes on a fighting stance, with one hoof pointing at Vulpes while the other reaches for his tantō. “Now it’s time for action.”

Vulpes then just laughs at the unicorn. “What kind of stance is that? You not worth my time, Twinkle Hoofs. I’ll let these guys take care of you.” Just then, some changeling drones show up.

“My style different,” the unicorn began to say, temporarily ceasing his stance, “but it’s all mine baby! And as they'll see, theres plenty of strength behind it! Now are we done talking?” He then resumes his stance. The drones then just, for some reason, go by him. He then takes a step forward and re-sheathes his blade, but it wasn't out to begin with. The changelings then explode.

“He didn't even move!” Rainbow said out of complete shock. “How he do that?”

“Yes. He did move.” Terra said. “Just faster then the eye can see.”

REWIND

(Italics means rewind, normal means present) “I’ve never seen anything like it.” Celestia said. The unicorn then takes out his tantō and does some slashes at a couple of drones as they come by. He then re-sheathes his blade and takes it out again and slashes at some more.

“Yeah.” He said as he cuts one drone in half.

“That was the legendary sheath slash maneuver.” Lunar said.

“But that's impossible!” Twilight said in disbelief. The unicorn then takes out some more drones.

“Not anymore.” Celestia said. The unicorn then takes out the last drones.

PRESENT

“He’s pretty fast, yo.” Hielo said. Some more drones then take out bows and arrows and fire at the mysteries unicorn. Just then, his pet gold phoenix takes all the arrows before they it.

“Whoa. Thanks buddy.” The unicorn said as he goes after the drones.

“Now theres something you don’t see everyday.” Rainbow said when they see the phoenix.

“A gold phoenix.” Fire’ said in disbelief. “But how?” He said, knowing that gold phoenix’s are only found in Abysus, and that they're supposed to be extinct.

As the unicorn battles some more drones, A changeling then attacks with a blade, but the unicorn blocks it and sends the bug flying. Another then attacks, but the unicorn just stabs him clean through.

“The straight slash. The backhanded grip.” Lunar said as the group get up. “Such a strange technique.”

“Who cares how he does it.” Agua said. “It’s good.”

The unicorn then jumps into a tree. “Whats the problem?” He asked the changeling drones. “You dumb ugly bugs can't climb trees? Come on and get me, I’m right here.” He then sticks his tong out at them, but he then falls to the ground. “Okay, that part wasn't so fantástico.” He said as the group run to his aid.

“You okay?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Stay back! I told you I got this. Watch.” The unicorn said. He then jumps into the center of the changelings and does a 360, slashing and killing all them. He then hears the trees around him begin to fall. “Oh no. Didn't mean to play lumberjack!” He said as 10 different trees fall on him. But he uses his magic to teleport out. “Man, this thing is sharper then I thought.” As he gets out, Vulpes attacks him again and sends him flying a few feet, but the Gold Fire Avatar manages to land on his hoofs. “That was just a lucky shot.”

“Not quiet.” Vulpes said. “Theres Fox Flare.” Some bat/fox creatures then appear and overwhelm the unicorn.

“Guys, we need to help him out.” Rainbow said.

Fire’ then step forward and goes elemental. He then jumps into the air. “Blazing Strike!” He then incinerates the bat/fox creatures and sends Vulpes back a few feet.

“¡Gracias!” The unicorn said. “Your better then I remember. But no time now.” He then takes out a red disc from his saddle bag and places it in the blades handle. “Barracuda Blade!” He then runs for Vulpes.

“Aw, nuts! Come on!” Vulpes managed to say before the unicorn gets behind him. The unicorn then slashes at Vulpes a million times all around him while saying, ‘Barracuda Bite!’

The unicorn then lands in front of Fire’ while Vulpes explodes. “Yeah baby! When I promise a golden moment, I deliver!”

“Ugh, what do you mean, that I’m better then you remember?” Fire’ asked as he turns back to normal.

“I’ll explain later. How about the park? Gotta go!” The Gold Fire Avatar then runs and get his ice chess while his pet phoenix flies close to him.

The rest of the group then arrive. “Did he just ... whoa!” Blitz said.

“Seriously. If somepony doesn't tell me who this guy is soon, I think I’m gonna lose it.” Hielo said.

“He’ll tell us at Canterlot Park.” Fire’ said as he makes his way to the park, which is near Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns.

==================================================================

Later at the park, the group meet up with the Gold Fire Unicorn, who’s still in his ‘elemental form.’ “Hey, hey. How was that gays? Was that golden with a capital ‘G,’ or what?” The unicorn asked as they stand facing each other.

“Start talking.” Zuko said while most of the group go in front of Firebrand. “Whats your story.”

The unicorn then returns to normal while smiling. Fire’ instantly recognizes him and begins to smile. “I just cane to help because of all the changelings, Discord, and the Fire Nation and all that.” He said while Fire's smile grows. “Gays, I’m on your side.” He then looks at Fire.’ “Tell them Fire.’”

“Firebrand, you know him?” Twilight asked.

“Is that really you Golden Rod?” Fire’ asked the gold unicorn.

“Ha! I knew you would remember me!” The unicorn known as Golden Rod said. Fire’ then remembers the last time he saw his old friend.

==================================================================

At the forge, a young Firebrand, no younger than Apple Bloom at the beginning of the series, is reading a book outside while a young Golden Rod is playing with a female gold phoenix. Fire’ then stops reading and goes to play with Golden Rod. They then here a horn honk. “That’s my dad.” Golden Rod said. “Well, guess I’ll see you.” Golden Rod sadly said.

“Yeah.” Fire’ said. He then remembers something. “Wait! I have a going away present for you. But it’s out little secret, all right?” The gold phoenix then gives Golden Rod a gold and silver egg. She then places it in his little saddle bag.

“Wow, cool!” Golden Rod said.

“As my dad will always say, we’ll always be friends, no matter how far away we are from each other.” A young Fire’ said.

“All right. I’ll keep training, and when you gain full control over you firebending, I'll come back and be a firebender too. Okay?” Golden Rod said.

“Okay.” The two then do a Hoof Tip Promise (a pony version of a Pinkie Promise). Golden Rod then runs for his dad’s car.

==================================================================

Back in the present, Fire’ is still smiling. “I cant believe it’s really you. After all this time. I thought I was the only pony left from Abysus.”

“Believe it, baby! Your not alone and I’m back! And I’m ready for some action.” Golden Rod said. He then steps forward as the group give the foal-hood friends some space. Golden Rod then does some punches in the air and throws one to FIre,’ but he stops it with one hoof. “You still think you can take me?” Golden Rod asked. Fire’ then smiles as the two take on fighting stances. Golden Rod attacks first, but Fire’ manages to block it. “Nice.”

“If I learned anything lately, it’s to trust my instincts.” Fire’ said. The two continue to spar as the others watch.

“That guy is amazing.” Rainbow said, swallowing her pride in the proses. “I vote he should join the team.”

“I agree.” Luna said. “Golden Rod defiantly earned his golden moment.” Luna said as the two friends continue to spar.

Chapter 9, The Tengen Gate

The Elements of Nature
Book 3: 气 (Air)
Chapter 9, The Tengen Gate

“So, when did you first meet Golden Rod, Fire’?” Twilight asked while the group wait for Golden Rod, who's two minutes late.

“When I was just 6 years old.” Fire’ answered. “We meet at a fish market, a couple of years before I ran away. I remember it like it was yesterday.” Fire’ then remembers the first time he meet Golden Rod.

==================================================================

Fire’ and his father are at the local fish market, just strolling around. They stop at a new stand to see what kind of fish they have. Fire’ then sees a colt with a gold coat and a black mane in a blue jacket levitates some fish onto the stand. “You must be new to Bellwood.” Fire’ said to the colt.

“Yeah. Me and my dad had to leave our old home, and all my old friends.” The colt sadly said.

“I don’t have any friends either.” A young Fire’ said. He then gets an idea. “You wanna be friends?”

“Heck yeah!” The gold colt excitedly said. “My names Golden Rod by the way. Whats yours?” Golden Rod asked as he offers his hoof out for a hoof shake.

“Firebrand, but you can just call me Fire.’” Fire’ said as the two friends shake hoofs.

==================================================================

“So that's how you two-first meet.” Twilight said.

“Yeah. Golden Rod was actually the first pony I considered a friend.” Fire’ said to the group. “He was even the first pony I told about my secret to, at least back then. I even showed him some of my proto-firebending. I remember that we got in a lot of trouble.”

==================================================================

At the market, Golden Rod is busy looking at himself in a mirror, grooming his sleek mane, even if it’s unnecessary. He is also wearing a black and gold tuxedo that's like Fancy Pants. He then notices his pet gold phoenix is looking at him. “Hey buddy. How do I look?” He asked. He then puts the mini mirror up. “It’s time for me to go to the tower and join Team Avatar.” He said as they leave.

==================================================================

“What did you two do together anyway?” Applejack asked.

“Well, we just play when he could come to the forged.” Fire’ answered. “The times when we played, I actually felt like a normal colt, despite that he knew about my firebending.”

“He sound like a good friend.” Rarity said.

“He is. He pretty much hasn't change a bit since the last time I saw him.” Fire’ said.

“When was that?” Lunar asked.

“You see, his dad got a job in the capital of Abysus, but that meant Golden Rod had to leave also.” Fire’ said. “I gave him a gold phoenix egg as a going away present.”

“What is a gold phoenix?” Spike asked as he gives Peewee some food.

“Its a subspecies, only found in Abysus.” Fire’ said. “At least they used to be. After Abysus was destroyed, the gold phoenix population disappeared also.”

"Earlier, you said the you and Golden Rod got in all kinds of trouble. What did you mean?" Luna asked.

"Well, we usually ended up destroying a building since we were both looking for out special talents at the time." Fire' answered.

"Guess history repeated itself." Rainbow chuckled about how Scootaloo, Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle were three years ago.

"Anyway, I remember one time we got captured by some pirates." Fire' said.

==================================================================

At the base of the mountain that Canterlot is on, Deker is walking when he sees glowing red lines in the rock, a clear sing of Sozin’s Comets return. “Queen Chrysalis must be still absorbing this new surge of power from the approaching comet.” Deker said to nopony in particular. “Without her, the changelings are leaderless for the moment. It’s the perfect time to duel the Fire Avatar without distraction.” He said as he looks at his Uramasa. He then walks away as some golems emerge from the mountain side, not having been disturbed until the power surge from Sozin’s Comet awaken them.

==================================================================

“When is he gonna get here anyway?” Blitz asked, clearly annoyed.

Just then, Golden Rod slides down the floor and stops midway, with a fishing rod in he hoof. He then does some slashes with it like it’s a sword. He then turns to the group. “Mares and gentlecolts.” Golden Rod said. “I would like to introduce you to the sixth Avatar. The Gold Fire Avatar. Me. Golden Rod.”

“And you thought I was cocky.” Rainbow quietly said to Rarity, who nods in agreement.

The fishing hook on Golden Rod’s fishing rod then catches his tuxedo, and he accidentally rips it. “Oh, this is not good.” He said as he ruins the tuxedo he bought for 50 bits. The group then laugh at Golden Rods misfortune. “Haha. It’s no big deal, really. It’s happened before. Not a lot anymore.” He then tries to use his magic to remove the hook, only for it to get worse.

“Can ... you guys ... help him.” Fire’ said in between laughs. After they help Golden Rod, Celestia takes a look at his ‘Avatar Morpher,’ as he calls it.

“You were able to make this from what Firebrand taught you?” Celestia asked after the group sat down.

“It really wasn't that hard.” Golden Rod answered.

“So what are you?” Rainbow asked. “Some kind of techie?”

“Awww ... I don’t know.” Golden Rod nervously said. “I’ve always been good with gadgets.” He then accidentally knocks down a bowl with peanuts, but Ar catches it with his airbending and places it back on the table. “Nice save. Oh, well ... anyway, I’ve always just wanted to do something more, besides being a fisher-pony.” Golden Rod said as he flashes back to two years ago.

==================================================================

Golden Rod is practicing under a large swamp tree. “I know I wasn't born into it like you guys, but I just kept practicing what Fire’ had taught me. I was trying to take things to a higher level.” Golden Rod then slashes at a pole with his proto-Barracuda Blade and jumps over a 4 foot high wood wall. He then notices something. “But I was really stuck. When I hear that the Avatars can completely turn into their respective elements, I knew I needed to do the same, because one of the Avatars sounded familiar when I heard about it. I knew it was Firebrand who was the Avatar of Fire”

“I stumbled upon a group of ponies called the Sun Warriors, and they presented me to Ran and Shawn. They deemed me worthy and passed the secret of firebending to me also. I was able to produce a special type of fire that was gold, that the Sun Warriors said was extremely rare.” Golden Rod then picks up an old trashed cellphone. “I found a trashed cellphone and fixed it, and used some fire rubies to power it. After I fist tested it, everything fell into place.”

==================================================================

“And now I’m finally ready to join you.” Golden Rod finished.

“Fire,’ you're the leader of the team, what do you think?” Celestia asked.

There is a short paused before Fire’ gives GR (Golden Rod’s nickname) his Avatar Morpher. “We need all the help we can get.” Fire’ said as GR takes his morpher back. “Welcome to the team.”

“I promised, I won’t let you down!” Golden Rod excitedly said.

Just then, a guard walks in, bleeding. “Whats wrong?” Celestia asked.

“Golems ... attacking the city.” He said, barely conscious. “Broke through the barrier Captain Amor set up like it was paper.”

“Say what?” Shining said, unable to believe something broke through his barrier without him noticing.

“Lets go!” Fire’ said as he leaves, followed by Golden Rod, Blitz, Terra, Ar and Agua. Everyone else sone follows also.

==================================================================

At the center of Canterlot, the golems are on a rampage. The group then arrive. “Whoa!” Golden Rod said when he sees how many golems there are. “I see 4! No, 6! And that one is huge!”

“We need to find their power gems!” Twilight said. “Without them, there just worthless rock!”

“Alright!” Fire’ said. “Agua, Terra, I want you two to distract the golems as long as you can.”

“Right.”

“No way I’m gonna let some earth creatures beat me, the Earth Avatar!”

“Blitz, I want you, Lunar, Rainbow, and Applejack to destroy the power gems when you get the chance. The rest of us will make sure all civilians are taken to safety.” Fire' finished.

“Let’s do IT!” Rainbow said as each group went off as they were told.

As Terra distracts the largest golem (at least 2 stories tall) by throwing large boulders in her elemental form, Agua goes after the smaller ones in hers. “Keep that thing still, Terra!” Blitz yelled as he tries to find the power gem. He then sees a slight red glow coming from the behind of the golem’s right leg.

Blitz then fires some lightning at the small glowing stone. When it hit, the golem let out a rumbling noise. But instead of the low ones it had made before, it was making a deep -- but louder -- noise, over an even longer time than it had before, this sounded as if it was in pain. When Blitz turned around to prepare himself for whatever reaction the golem would have, he could see for a moment how the stone surface around the place he had stuck had cracked, with pieces of the rock falling apart. Right before the golem turned around to face Blitz, he could see something moving inside of it, something pulsating. It was a heart.

The golem was turning its massive body to keep its newly found weak spot protected. It looked down to Terra as it swung one of its arms to send her flying, but she was able to dodge the clumsy attack with relative ease by jumping backwards thanks to the adrenaline pumping through her veins and her seismic sense.

“It’s now or never...” Blitz whispered to himself as he flew in between the legs of the golem. He quickly toke out his nun-chucks. With the weapon in his hoof, he got behind it to prepare for his attack. It tried to move its leg away from him, to no avail. It was too clumsy and slow to effectively escape him. It let out another rumble like the earlier one when it first got hit on the leg, except that this time it was an entirely different tone, one that could be compared to screaming. It was afraid.

Blitz had finally gotten to a position where he could clearly see the open ‘wound’; inside of it was a red heart, which looked organic to him, unlike the rest of the body. It was pulsating fast, each thump spreading some of the red glow that lingered for a few seconds before it just vanished, only to be replaced with more of the red light. Blitz then fired another lightning bolt at the ‘heart.’

The golem finally let out a rumbling sound unlike any of the others. This time, it started as if it was screaming, but the tone became lower and lower until it finally stopped. Blitz had struck the heart, which was now a piece of crumbling stone that was falling apart. Along with this, the golem was losing its balance and eventually fell over. The red light from both the heart and the eyes had faded completely. It was dead.

With their leader gone, the other golems soon followed in similar patterns, some of their ‘hearts’ were in their chest, while others were in their arms. Agua had been able to lead one golem to the river where it drowned due to being made of heavy stones. “That ... was though.” Agua said after Team Avatar had regrouped.

“At least no one got hurt.” Applejack said.

“Except us.” Rainbow said.

“Hey, GR. How about you get us some dinner for tonight?” Fire’ said to his old friend.

“Sure thing.” Golden Rod said as he makes his way to the edge of Canterlot while the rest go to the tower.

==================================================================

At Twilights former place of stay, the group are tending to any wounded guards from the fight with the golems. Agua is using her healing technique to heal a fractured wing on a guard. “That should do for now.” She said to the guard.

“What are we gonna do?” Luna asked. “The golems were awakened by the approaching comet. If the comet made simple rocks come to life before it arrive, how are we supposed to defeat the Fire Nation when it does come.”

“Simple, Lulu.” Celestia said to he younger sister. “Find the remaining Elements of Nature.”

“But how are we gonna do that?” Rainbow asked.

“I think I have an idea where they might be.” Bastion Yorsets said when he walks in, startling everypony. “I fond this in the archives.” He said as he shows then a scroll. “It says that the last Avatar, Roku, build the Tengen Gate with Star Swirl the Bearded long ago to celebrate the defeat of the changeling King, Mantises, and to honor the history of the Elements of Harmony and Nature, and their wielders.” He said.

“The bugs had a king?” Rainbow said.

“Apparently. Anyway, there might be a clue to the location of the last two elements there.” Bastion said.

“Okay, me, Twilight, Agua, Applejack, Terra, Rainbow, Blitz, Rarity, Ar, Pinkie and Fluttershy will go to the Tengen Gat to find a clue to the elements.” Fire’ said.

“I hate history.” Rainbow bitterly said.

==================================================================

At the changeling hive, Medizinisch is walking around in a circle due to Chrysalis and Discord still absorbing the new surge of power from the comet. “Ooh-ah-ooh, this is bad.” He said to himself. “With both Chrysalis and Discord still absorbing this new power, who knows what kind of despicable and conniving changeling will-”

But before he cold finished, a blood-red claw from a changeling around Chrysalis’ height and build, except for having 8 legs like a spiders that have blood-red claws, and having fangs like a spiders, along with 4 red glowing eyes that have serpentine irises like Chrysalis.’ “Despicable and conniving?” He asked.

“Arachnitor!” Medizinisch said out of pure fear. “I meant a changeling way more despicable and conniving then you! What are you doing here? Ugh ... not like it isn't great to see you again.”

“I herd that Chrysalis was tied up.” The changeling known as Arachnitor said. “I see that it’s true.”

“I don’t know what your up to this time, but count me out.” Medizinisch said as he walks away. “And besides, even in the state she’s in now, no one can beat Chrysalis in a fight.”

“Exactly.” Arachnitor said as he places one of his 8 claws next to Medizinisch’s neck. “But she can be sealed away.”

==================================================================

Later at the Tengen Gate, the group arrive, and are amazed at what they see (except Rainbow), a large Japanese garden with a Japanese gate at the entrance. “This is the Tengen Gate?” Rainbow said out of sear boredom. “It’s just a big wood thing.”

“The Tengen Gate is an important part of Equestria’s history, Rainbow.” Twilight said.

They then see an old unicorn stallion with a coat and mane in shades of gray, indicating his age. He is so old that he needs a walking stick so he won’t fall and break a hip. “Welcome.” He said. “I am Daisuke, the elder Guardian of the Tengen Gate.”

“Ugh ... according to this, there were originally twelve wielders of the Elements of Harmony and Nature.” Twilight said.

“Indeed.” Daisuke answered her. “And according to legend, the original wielder of the Element of Loyalty, a Pegasus, was a bit of a slacker.”

“No way!” Rainbow said.

“Apparently, the Pegasus drove the Elements of Honesty and Generosity, an Earth Pony and Unicorn respectfully, crazy. But they were still the best of friends.” Daisuke said as he leads the group inside.

Twilight then notices a picture of two unicorns, one a mare and the other a stallion, with the stallion on the ground. “What is this?”

“Its an old ponies’ tale.” Daisuke said to her. “A young mare made a deal with King Mantises, the last ruler of the changelings, to save the life of her beloved. But the King tricked her, and turn them both into changelings.”

“It sure sounds like something a changeling would do.” Rainbow said.

“The King took away the stallions memory, and cursed him to wonder the earth alone forever.” Daisuke finished.

“It’s strange.” Twilight said. “I feel like I meet this mare before.”

==================================================================

Back at the outskirts of Canterlot, Deker is making his way to the city when Golden Rod jumps in his way, startling him. “So, you’ve come to accept my challenge.” GR said.

Deker then reaches for his Uramasa. “Challenge?”

“You said you would try my secret recipe.” Golden Rod said with a smile on his face as he walks up to Deker. “Baby Barracuda Fish Kabobs.” Golden Rod then places his hoof at his mouth and blows a kiss into the air. “There más fantástico!”

Deker then remembers the last time he meet Golden Rod at Whitetail Woods. “I did say that.”

“Come on! You won’t be sorry.” Golden Rod then pushes Deker into a seat and prepares the meal. Golden Rod firsts sets up the table, then a white and blue umbrella. He puts a grill on the table with some barracuda on it and begins to cook. “Hold on to your taste buds. ‘Cause there about to be rock.” GR said as he pours some spices and herbs onto the cooking fish. He also squeezes a lemon and pours some honey.

==================================================================

At the Tengen Gate, the group are sitting in a room, waiting for some tea. “So, you have no idea where the last elements are at.” Twilight said to Daisuke.

“Unfortunately. But fortunately, we have a talisman, said to tell where one single element is located.” A young Unicorn then walks in, caring a box with his magic. He then places the wooden box on the table. “It is called...” Daisuke said as he opens the box, showing a little black talisman that has two half's, with the upper having a purple rope. “The Black Box.”

“Wow.” Applejack said. “How’s it work?”

“It works by using some of the power from the available elements and uses a map to pinpoint the remaining ones.” Daisuke answered. As they are talking, Medizinisch, disguise as a young guarding, puts some magic dust into the tea the group is about to drink. He then quickly leaves. “I hope one of can use it. With each passing day, Sozin’s Comet makes all creatures stronger, both the good and bad. I’m afraid that soon, even this sacred place will be corrupted by their evil.”

==================================================================

Outside, Arachnitor arrives with some drones with him. “Ah, the Tengen Gate.” He said. “Symbol of changeling defeat. Soon the site of my triumph!” He said as he walks in.

==================================================================

A young guardian then places the tea on the table. “Now, let us drink tea together, in honor of the Elements of Harmony and Nature, and good fortune in battle.”

Fire’ is the first to drink, but he quickly spits it out and falls to the floor and begins to choke. “FIREBRAND!” Twilight yelled as she runs to his side.

“Don’t drink!” Fire’ said as he tries to breathe. “It’s poisoned!”

A young guardian then runs in. “Daisuke! There are changelings in the garden!”

“Changelings! Here?” Rainbow said.

“We need to take care of them!” Blitz said.

“But we can't leave Fire’!” Twilight said, on the verge of tears.

“I’ll be fine, Twiley.” Fire’ said to her. “Just go!” Twilight then nodes in understanding and leaves with the others.

==================================================================

Out in the garden, some of the guardians are running for their lives from the drones and Arachnitor. The group arrive, with Agua, Terra, Ar and Blitz in their elemental forms. “Whoa! That's one big and ugly bug!” Rainbow said when she sees Arachnitor.

“Huh, only 4 of you Avatars.” Arachnitor said when he sees that Fire’ is missing. “My little scheme must have worked.”

“Your gonna pay for that, you ... you, spider-bug-thing!” Twilight said. A fight soon erupts, which is taken to a bamboo frosts.

“This is gettin’ ridicules!” Applejack said when she is nearly killed by a changeling disguise as Rainbow nearly kills her. “I better call Golden Rod.” Applejack then takes out her phone, which is an old model, and calls Golden Rod. “Ugh, Golden Rod. We’ve got trouble here at the Tengen Gate!”

==================================================================

“The Tengen Gate!” Golden Rod said when he finishes the fish. “I’m on my way.” He then hangs up and places the fish on the table. “I’m sorry, but I gotta jam. Please, enjoy your fish.” Golden Rod then runs and heads for the Tengen Gate.

“The Tengen Gate?” Deker said after Golden Rod is out of earshot. “Interesting.” He then gets up and heads for the Tengen Gate.

==================================================================

In the room where Fire’ is at, a young Unicorn guardian arrives with some dried mushrooms and gives them to Daisuke. He then tries to give some of the mushrooms to Fire,’ who is still having a hard time to breath. “What a joke!” Medizinisch said in his normal form, startling the three. “Seriously! Your gonna use dried mushrooms to counteract my black magic!”

The young guardian then runs for the changeling, but Medizinisch uses the same spell that Chrysalis used on Celestia, but instead of knocking him out, he is throw across the wall and dies. “Foolish changeling!” Daisuke said as he gets up and walks to Medizinisch slightly. “Your old forces were defeated here before, and they shall be again!”

“Ooh-ah-ooh. You want a pice of me too?” Medizinisch said to Daisuke.

“Wait!” Fire’ said. “It’s me you want. Let the guardians go!”

“Fine by me.” Medizinisch said. “I just need one thing from you. Your gonna show me the spell that your ancestor, Star Swirl, used to seal away King Mantises.”

==================================================================

Out in the forest, the group continue to fight the changelings. “I sure hope Golden Rod can find us in this bamboo forest.” Rainbow said while she, Twilight, Rarity and Blitz do a back to back, fighting off at least 10 drones.

“Time to even the odds!” Blitz said as he destroys all the drones around him, Twilight, Rarity and Rainbow with his, “Lightning Vortex!”

“Settle.” Rarity said to Blitz.

“But effective.” Blitz replied. In another part of the forest, Terra, Pinkie and Fluttershy are fighting some of the changelings (but, Fluttershy is technically accidentally hitting them, like at the Royal Wedding three years earlier).

“This is taking too long!” Terra said as she does her, “Seismic Swing!” This sends the changelings flying and not coming back anytime soon. Fluttershy then faints out of pure shock.

“I think you might of tinny-tiny-bit of over doing it?” Pinkie said.

“Ya think.” Terra replied.

Meanwhile, The Triple AAA’s (Agua, Ar and Applejack) are busy dealing with some drones also. “Water Splash!” Agua yelled as she freezes some of the drones, followed by Applejack bucking them, breaking the drones ice prisons in the process, along with them.

“Air Wave!” Ar yelled as he sends a slice of air at some more drones, cutting them in half.

“Where did that spider went off to?” Applejack asked when she notices that Arachnitor is gone.

“Right here!” Arachnitor yelled as he knocks out all three of then without taking a sweet. The rest of the group arrives and see how easily Arachnitor took out Agua, Applejack and Ar. Rarity then dramatically faints, like the still unconscious Fluttershy.

“Lets see how you take all of us on!” Twilight said, causing Arachnitor to laugh.

“I can beat you all, with only one claw!” He said.

“Prove it!” Rainbow yelled as the group charge at him, but Arachnitor just simply jumps and spins around, his claws hitting the group, knocking Pinkie Pie out.

Blitz and Rainbow then try to attack again, but Arachnitor fires something like spider silk at them and traps them. “Sticky situation, huh?” Arachnitor mocked.

“Hey, let me GO!” Rainbow yelled as she and Blitz struggle to get free.

“If you insist.” Arachnitor the uses a spell to knock the two out. He then tries to deal with Terra and Twilight when...

“Back off, changeling!” Golden Rod yelled as he throws some fish (improvised shuriken) at him.

“Golden Rod!” Twilight said out of relief.

“Anything or anyone who messes with my friends has to answer to me!” Golden Rod yelled at Arachnitor.

“I don’t know who your are, pony. But you made a big and very grave mistake.” Arachnitor said as he prepares to attack.

“Wait!” Twilight said as she and Terra grab Arachnitor. “Go help Fire’! He’s in big trouble!”

“OK, but I’ll be back!” Golden Rod said as he runs for the Tengen Gate.

“Your friend comes to help you, and you tell him to run away?” Arachnitor said as he throws both Twilight and Terra off of him. Terra then hits a tree, knocking her out.

==================================================================

In the hive, Hexe is looking for Medizinisch. “Medizinisch. Where is that slimy little bug?” Hexe asked. “Medizinisch!” She called out again.

“ Hexe!” Chrysalis and Discord called out at the same time from behind two separate closed chambers.

“Queen Chrysalis! Discord! You both recovered!” Hexe said.

“And just in time to stop that traitor Arachnitor!” Chrysalis yelled.

==================================================================

“You know, I thought destroying the Elements of Harmony and the Avatars, would be much more of a challenge.” Arachnitor mocked as Twilight tries to get up, despite knowing that she’ll die from a changeling's evil. But she wants to do it so that Fire’ can live, that's the only thing that mattered at the moment for her.

“ARACHNITOR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” A voice reverberated from behind a green portal. Both Arachnitor and Twilight recognize the voice.

“Queen Chrysalis!” Arachnitor said with a slight amount of fear in his voice.

Just then, a green glowing rope comes out of the portal and wraps around Arachnitor. “ENOUGH OF YOUR TREACHERY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” Chrysalis yelled as Arachnitor is pulled throw the portal and into the hive. Twilight then falls asleep.

==================================================================

At the Tengen Gate, Fire’ is trying his best to get away from Medizinisch. “It’s a simple question, Fire Avatar.” Medizinisch said, unaware the Deker in his pony form is watching from behind a statue. “Just show me the sealing spell, I’ll give you the antidote, and it will save us both a lot of grief.”

“Never!” Fire’ said as loud as he could, still having trouble breathing.

“Thats how you wanna play it?” Medizinisch said, thinking of ideas on how to make Firebrand talk, like snapping off Twilights horn.

Just then, Golden Rod runs into the scene. “THE STALLION SAID NO!” He yelled, getting both Medizinisch and Deker to see who interrupted. GR then takes out his Avatar Morpher. “Gold Power!” He then turns into his elemental form and pulls out his Barracuda Blade, but Medizinisch blocks it with his staff.

“Who invited you?” Medizinisch asked. “This is a privet conversation!” He then sends Golden Rod back a few feet.

“Golden Rod?” Fire’ said before he losses consciousness.

“Watch where you point that thing!” Golden Rod said as he and Medizinisch do battle, with Deker watching.

“Whats this?” Deker asked. “The fisher-colt is the Gold Fire Avatar?”

Medizinisch then takes out some small bombs. “Batter up!” He joked as he throws them at GR, but he just simply burns them before there in range to hurt him with his golden fire. Medizinisch then sends the tentacles he calla a beard at Golden Rod and picks him up.

“Eew, slimy!” Golden Rod responded.

“OK, fish-colt, lets dance!” Medizinisch said as he slams Golden Rod into the ground a few times.

“I think its time to cut bait!” GR said as he cuts off the tentacles that have him.

“Ow! Those take forever to grow!” Medizinisch said as he and Golden Rod push both of their weapons at each other, forcing to go into a stand-off, when...

“Hey, fisher-colt!” Deker yelled as he stands beside an unconscious Firebrand.

“Huh? Hey, what are you doing here?” Golden Rod asked Deker.

“Relax.” Deker said as he takes on his changeling form. “I’ll take care of the Fire Avatar from here.”

“What?” Golden Rod said in both confusion that the pony he served fish to is a changeling and fear at what Deker had in mind. “Wait no!” Golden Rod said as Deker picks up Firebrand and flies off into the distance. “NO! Come back here with my friend!” Golden Rod said as he abandons the fight and goes after Deker.

“Deker spoils everything.” Medizinisch said. “I’m out of here.”

Golden Rod finally stops when he realizes that he can’t catch up to Deker, even with his speed. “NO! Fire,’ I’ve failed you!” He then remembers something. “Wait! What about the others!” He then runs to where the rest of the group is at and finds them all unconscious. “Pinks! Blitz! Twilight! Guys, wake up!” Golden Rod then returns to normal as his head sinks to the ground. “What am I supposed to do now, huh?”

==================================================================

At the changeling hive, Arachnitor is tied up on the ground as Chrysalis walks around him. “Arachnitor, what am I’m gonna do with you?!” Chrysalis said out of complete annoyance. “I torture you! I banish you! And yet you still plot against ME!”

“Wow! And I thought I was cruel.” Discord said, impressed by Chrysalis’ cruelty.

“I think Medizinisch is helping him.” Hexe said. “The slimy little weasel.”

“Nonsense!” Chrysalis yelled. “Medizinisch would never betray me. He was just trying to poison the Fire Avatar. Now that's initiative.”

“Initiative?” Arachnitor said as he manages to get up. “Big deal! I defeated 4 Avatars and all the Elements of Harmony! And besides, it was my plan!” Chrysalis then punches him against the wall.

“YOUR PLAN!” She yelled as she casts a spell on the ropes tying Arachnitor. “YOUR PLAN WAS TO STEAL MY THRONE!” She then sends Arachnitor to the surface, without the ropes, because now he’s screaming in agonizing pain as green sparks fly off him. “THIS IS HOW I DEAL WITH TRAITORS LIKE YOU!”

Medizinisch then arrives and sees whats going on. “Ooh-ah-ooh. Something big is happening.” He said as the sky begins to darken.

==================================================================

At a river in the Everfree Forest, Deker is walking through with an unconscious Firebrand on his back. “Finally, I shall soon seize my divine moment, and duel the Fire Avatar!” Deker said as he takes Fire’ someplace where they can duel in peace.

Chapter 10, Boxed In

The Elements of Nature
Book 3: 气 (Air)
Chapter 10, Boxed In

At the infirmary in Canterlot Castle, Applejack, Agua, who's boyfriend, Hielo, is sitting next to, Ar, Blitz, Pinkie, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow, Terra, and Twilight, who’s parents, brother and sister-in-law are sitting next to her, are asleep in separate beds. Celestia, Luna, Lunar, Zuko, and Golden Rod, the only one who went to the Tengen Gate and didn't came back in a stretcher, are watching. “Boy, they sure look banged up after that run in with Arachnitor, huh.” Golden Rod said.

“Yes.” Lunar said to him. “Now that Sozin’s Comet is approaching, all creatures, changelings especially, are getting stronger.” They then leave for the main hallway.

“It’s imperative that you power the Black Box and find the last two elements before it’s too late.” Celestia said once they arrive.

“Thats golden! Once we rescue Firebrand, he and I will get it going in no time.” Golden Rod said.

“No.” Luna said to him. “You must focused on the job at hand.”

“But my best friend needs me!” Golden Rod argued.

“He would be the first to tell you.” Lunar said. “The Black Box, is the main priority.” As they talk, Twilights family notice that she looks like she's about to wake up.

“Twilight!” Shining called as Twilight slowly wakes up, only to fall back to sleep again.

“I hope she’s having good dreams.” Twilight mother, Twilight Velvet, worriedly said.

==================================================================

Twilight slowly wakes up and sees that she’s in the upper half of an hour glass. “Where an I?” She asked, still confused. She then hears a very familiar laugh. “Discord! Where are you!? Where am I!?”

“In the one place your boyfriend can’t get too.” Discord answered as he appears in front of the hour glass. Discord then shows Twilight a large white maze behind him.

“Whats that?”

“Firebrands test.” Discord answered. “He’s on the other side of the maze, and it will begin soon.” Discord then laughs as he turns the hour glass Twilight is in upside down. “He already entered a few minutes ago, I figured I give him a head start.”

Twilight then gasps as the sand fills her end of the hour glass faster than she thought. “And, what happens if he doesn't make it over here?” She nervously asked.

“Once the sand completely fills the bottom end, your end, he fails, and you will die.” Discord said, causing Twilight to almost cry for him to wait until Firebrand makes it to the middle of the maze. “Of course, there is a catch. The maze is filled with many deadly traps and monsters that will give you nightmare if I told you about them. If he encounters any, he will be delayed at saving you, and I will get to watch as both of you die slowly.” When Discord said that, Twilight nearly fainted as the sand reaches to her knees.

==================================================================

In the Everfree Forest, Deker is still carrying an unconscious Fire’ on his back. “Rescuing you has become a bit of a bad habit.” Deker said. “But it’s one I intend to soon break, permanently!” He then drops Fire’ into the river. Fire’ then gets out, gasping for air as Deker returns to his pony form. “Stay under, the water will help purge the poison in your system.” Fire’ then reluctantly agrees and goes back under.

==================================================================

At the changeling hive, Medizinisch is trying to explain himself to Chrysalis. “It was all a big misunderstanding! Medizinisch said to a clearly unhappy Chrysalis. “I think that you thinking that I was thinking of betraying you! Ooh-ah-ooh, I hate all this thinking!”

“That's enough!” Chrysalis yelled. “You know better to think for yourself! It gives us all a headache! What really bugs me (no pun intended) is that we lost a chance to eliminate the Fire Avatar! Next time you succeed, or my rage will be swift on you!” She then destroys a large bolder with he bare mandibles, without taking any damage. “There's another one we need to rid ourselves of.” She said after she calmed down. “Right, Hexe?” Die then gasps when she realizes who Chrysalis is talking about. “I’m talking about that troublesome Deker of yours. See to it that he is taken care of, permanently!”

“Ooh-ah-ooh! Deker is to tough!” Medizinisch defended. “He’ll mash her into tiny little Hexe-bits!”

“Fine!” Hexe said. “I’ll do it.” She then leaves.

“Ooh-ah-ooh. Your cruelty is boundless.” Medizinisch commented.

“Speaking of cruelty, how about Arachnitor?” Chrysalis asked as they see Arachnitor on the surface, still screaming as green sparks fly off him.

“He’s just about ready to mutate, my Queen.” Medizinisch said.

“Good. He wanted power so badly, now he has so much it will destroy him. Keep an eye on him.” Chrysalis said as she leaves.

==================================================================

As Twilight tries to keep her head above the sand, she sees that Fire’ has made it to the end of the maze, shocking Discord. “What! How did you make it throw?”

“I just followed your stench, Discord!” Fire’ said as he charges up a spell. He fires it, and Discord disappears in an instant. He then runs for the hour glass as Twilight slowly slips into the sand. Just at the last moment, Fire’ takes out his sword and breaks the glass, saving Twilight. “You okay?” Fire’ asked as he holds Twilight in his front legs.

“I’m fine now.” Twilight said. “What happened to Discord?”

“I banished him to the stars. He won’t be bothering anypony ever again.” Fire’ said.

“A bit overkill, don’t you think?”

“Maybe. But I did it because he threaten the mare I love.” Fire’ said as the two loss each other in their eyes. The two then lean into each other and share a very deep and romantic kiss that fells like hours to Twilight as she is finally with the colt of her dreams...

==================================================================

Twilight then slowly wakes up and sees she’s in the infirmary. She then feels a very big hug as Shining Armor hugs his little sister along with Candace. “Can you to let go. I can’t breath.” Twilight said, causing the three to laugh. Twilight then looks around and sees that her parents, all her friends, and the Avatars are also in the room ... except one. “Wheres Fire’?” She nervously asked.

“He got taken by that blasted Deker, sugarcube.” Applejack said from across the room.

“Wh ... what!?” Twilight said, trying her best to stay calm.

“Golden Rod said that after he fought a small changeling that poisoned Fire,’ Deker showed up and took him away.” Rainbow said from a bed across from Twilight’s.

“I need to have a word with him!”

“Not at the moment.” Celestia said as she enters the room, startling Twilight. “He’s busy programing the Black Box.”

In the main throne room, Golden Rod is using a spell to try to understand the Black Box, with Luna, Lunar and Bastion Yorsets watching, just in case he needs some help. Golden Rod than stops. “Okay, I have an understanding of it now. Now, all I need to do is format it to use the power from the Elements.” He then nearly collapses to the ground.

“Golden Rod!” The to Alicorns and said as Golden Rod gets back up again.

“Using magic like this is incredibly draining. Don’t over do it.” Bastion said to the gold Unicorn.

“Who told me the world is at stake here?” Golden Rod joked as he gets back up and does another spell on the Black Box and begins to format it.

==================================================================

At a cave in the Everfree Forest, Deker and Firebrand are siting in front of a fire. Fire’ then tries to get up, but groans in pain. “The purity of the water has healed you. But your still be week, for a while.” Deker said.

“Why are you doing all of this?” Fire’ asked.

“I’m searching for the ultimate duel.” Deker answered. “The duel you and I will have.”

Hexe is watching the conversation from behind a cave wall. “I don’t fight just to fight. I fight to protect the innocent.”

“We’ll see.” Deker said. “Were patient, my sword Uramasa and I. But eventual, we will battle. I have quiet the incessant to convince you. After all, I was once fully pony.” Deker said as he remembers when he first turned into a changeling. “All I know now is ... a constant craving for battle, unlike other changelings, who have a constant crave to feed off of love. The changeling in me gives me no choice about it.”

“You always have a choice. You don’t have to give in to the changelings cravings.” Fire’ said.

“Hmm. It’s easy for you to say.” Deker replied.

“Doing the right thing is always worth the effort, no matter how hard it is. That's why I won’t fight just to fight.”

“You will give me the ultimate battle, whether you like it or not!” Deker firmly said. “It’s the only way I’ll be free from this terrible curse!”

“Oh, Deker. If you only knew the truth.” Hexe quietly said.

==================================================================

In the hive, Medizinisch sees something interesting happening to Arachnitor. “It’s happening!” He said as Arachnitor gets up and turns green as his front claws grow, along with his fangs. He’s abdomen also grows also and forms a pony skull shape on it. His eyes also begin to bulge as more appear on his legs. “Arachnitor is finally mutating into a super powerful changeling!” Medizinisch said as Arachnitor’s wings become larger and more bat like. “Time to destroy the Avatars and the Elements of Harmony once and for all!”

==================================================================

At Canterlot castle, Golden Rod nearly falls to the floor unconscious after he finishes the formatting. “There. The formatting is done.” He said as he begins to get back up.

“Now comes the really dangerous part.” Bastion Yorsets said. “Infusing the Black Box with some of the power from the Elements.”

“Thats where we come in, mate.” Blitz said as the group enter the room.

“You shouldn't be out of bed!” Lunar said.

“Golden Rod can’t take this all on himself.” Twilight said to Lunar as Celestia enters the room too. “We need to help each other, especially since Firebrand’s gone.” Twilight said the last part with a great amount of sadness in her voice.

Just then, a Pegasus guard flies in and says, “Your Highness, a group of changelings have found a way through the shield and are now causing havoc.”

“So what do we do now?” Golden Rod asked, now fully recovered.

“Well, I know what Fire’ would say.” Agua said.

“At all cost, protect the innocent.” Twilight finished.

“Thats golden! You guys go take care of the changeling, and I’ll go find Firebrand!” Golden Rod said as he leaves, only to be stopped by Lunar Eclipse.

“No.” Lunar said. “You must first finished the Black Box first.”

“I can’t.” Golden Rod said to the Prince of Death. “I need the Elements, and there taking them into battle.”

Terra then gives Golden Rod the Element of Earth. “Here. It’s yours.” The others soon do the same, with some reluctance from Rainbow at first.

“Are you guys series?” Golden Rod asked as he places the Elements of Harmony and Nature on a small table for the time being. “How can you and your friends defeat the changeling without these, Twilight?”

“We’ll make do.” Twilight said.

“Whats do? Is it like chocolate covered in fudge? Or ... was that the other way around?” Pinkie asked, causing Twilight to sigh.

“And besides, Fire’ would say that you need to finish the Black Box fist.” Shining said.

“Okay.” Golden Rod said, defeated. “I wish you guys weren't right, but you are. This has to come first. Well, go on! Get out of here! I have work to do!” Golden Rod said when the group don’t leave right away, but they soon do.

“Were on it!” Rainbow arrogantly said.

“And be careful!” GR said as they leave.

“Don’t worry about us, sugarcube!” Applejack said as they leave. Zuko and Lunar Eclipse soon join them.

==================================================================

At the center of Canterlot, Arachnitor and a lot of drones are attacking anything that moves. Arachnitor even fires some lasers at some building, completely destroying them, just completely at random, while grunting like a mindless beast. “Fighting building.” Rainbow said as the group arrive. “Wow, your tough.”

“Stay on your hoofs, guys.” Shining said. Just then, Arachnitor fires a blast, sending the group flying a little.

“So much for stayin’ on our hoofs.” Applejack said as she and the others get up.

“Wait!” Agua said. “Does this creep look familiar?”

“Hey, your right!” Rainbow said when she recognizes the bug. “It’s Arachnitor, but he looks mutated.”

Arachnitor then grunts to attack, which the drones seem to understand. “Lets get them!” Terra said as she, Agua, Blitz and Ar take on their elemental forms and do battle.

==================================================================

In the palace, Golden Rod is using his magic to try to transfer some power from the Element of Water, with Celestia, Luna, and Bastion Yorsets. He already finished with the Elements of Magic, Honesty, Laughter, Kindness, Loyalty, and Generosity. “Thats it.” He said as he gets closer to finishing the Element of Water. “Just a little more.” It then stops, causing Golden Rod to groan. “No!” He then takes a moment to breathe. “You can do this.” He said to himself as he does his spell again. They then see a small amount of energy that looks like it’s made of water exit the Element of Water and goes into the Black Bow. “Yeah!”

“Good.” Bastion Yorsets.

“So far.” Luna said.

“Now, lets keep going with a little lightning.” Golden Rod then does the same spell on the Element of Lightning, but it suddenly stops. “Come on.” Golden Rod said, completely disappointed with himself. He then sits down on the closest sofa. “I just don’t have enough energy to finish it fast enough!” Golden Rod then sighs while calming down. “I’m sorry.” He said as the princesses look at him with pity. “It’s just that the planet is counting on me.” His eyes then widen in realization as he gets up.

“Wait. The whole planet!” Golden Rod said as he gets an idea. “Thats it!” He then takes out his Avatar Morpher and programs it. “I’ll piggyback on the global satellite system and use it to lock on to Firebrands unique biosignature.” After he presses enter, he gets a hit. “Golden! I found him!” He then heads for the door with the Elements in tow. Bur before he leave, he looks at the two Alicorns and the blue Unicorn. “Look, I can’t finish the Black Box now, but I can help Firebrand.”

“Go.” Celestia said. “Me and Luna will help the others.” Golden Rod then leaves for the Everfree Forest while Celestia and Luna go to the battle, leaving a very worried Bastion Yorsets behind.

==================================================================

In the cave Fire’ and Deker are in, Deker gets up. “You should have fully recovered by now.” Fire’ then stares at him and quickly gets up.

“Why do you want to fight me? There are plenty of other warriors out there. Shining Armor for example. Or Lunar Eclipse, and he's a Alicorn.”

“Yes, but like me, you have a secret festering inside you.” Deker said. “Your’s involves that Unicorn mare, Twilight Sparkle.” When Deker said that, Fire’ got really angry to the point that the fire almost exploded. “Were both warped. Twisted. Confused about what our destinies truly are and how to defined them.”

“What do you mean?” Fire’ said as he walks a bit to Deker, only to intimidate him. “Why did I just do that?” Fire’ thought to himself.

“You could've sacrificed everything before giving Medizinisch the sealing spell.” Deker said as he walks past Fire,’ with his Uramasa on his back. “You did it to keep one pony safe. One that understands you, connects to you, and has feelings for you. And ... vise versa.” Fire’ then blushes at the last comment Decker gave. “You inherited the one part of the Avatar Spirit that the other four don’t have. The warrior spirit.” Deker said as he takes his Uramasa’s handle. “And thats why ... you're the perfect opponent.” He then turns into his changeling form and draws out his Uramasa, while Fire’ takes out his sword and gets into a fighting stance, only to protect himself. “Go ahead.” Deker said after a few tense moments. “The first move is yours.”

Just then, Golden Rod appears in his elemental form and gets in between the two. “Hold on! This isn't gonna happen on my watch!” GR said as he get Fire’ out of his stance. “Firebrand, you're in no shape to fight!”

“Out of my way, fisher-colt.” Deker said, still in his fighting stance.

“How can you want to duel him when he’s like this, changeling?” Golden Rod argued. Deker then releases his stance. “Me and my friend are walking out of here. And you're gonna let us. You got it?”

After a moment, Deker choses his answer. “Go. But know this, Fire Avatar. The next time we meet ... we will battle.”

Fire’ then shots daggers at Deker (metaphorically speaking). “Hey, the nice creepy bug is letting us go, Firebrand!” Golden Rod said, getting Fire’s attention. “¡Vamos! See ya!” Golden Rod then bends the fire to make a small smoke screen. When it lifts, Fire’ and GR are gone.

Deker then puts away his Uramasa and turns into his pony form and leaves. As he leaves, he fails to notice Hexe coming out of her hiding place. “Oh, Deker. I’m sorry what I’ve done to you.” She said with great sadness in her voice.

==================================================================

At Canterlot, Team Avatar, even with Celestia and Luna, are having trouble dealing with Arachnitor. “This isn't good!” Twilight thought to herself after Pinkie used her as a machine gun like at the Royal Wedding. “I hope we can think of something soon!” She said. Despite them having an advantaged due to Shining’s shield canceling their shapeshifting, they are still out numbered, even thou they defeated half of them, there is still at least 50 more left. And if that's not all, they still got a mindless Arachnitor to deal with.

The entire group is also out of breath, completely exhausted. “I ... can’t use ... my firebending ... when I'm ... out of breath like this.” Zuko said in between breaths.

Arachnitor then prepares to attack when ... “Back off, changeling!” Golden Rod said as he throws some knives at the bug, causing Arachnitor to stumble a little.

“Golden Rod! Firebrand!!” Twilight said when GR and Fire’ show up, now with Fire’ in his elemental form.

Golden Rod and Fire’ then sees Arachnitor get up. “What is that thing?” GR said. Arachnitor then just snarls at them when he gets up. “Ha ha. Sorry, I don’t speak ‘Snarl’!” The remaining drones then charge at them. “Allow me to introduce myself.” GR said as he takes out his Barracuda Blade and charges. “I am ... Golden Rod of Abysus!” He said as he slashes at the drones faster than the speed of light. “The Gold Fire Avatar!” He said as the drones explode.

“Nice one, GR!” Rainbow said as she and the others walk up to them.

“Thanks. I wasn't able to finish the Black Box, but I promise o try again. So here, have your elements back.” GR said as he gives the group the Elements of Harmony and Nature back.

“Thanks mate.” Blitz said as he takes the Element of Lightning.

“We should could use them.” Twilight said as she gets he tiara, AKA Element of Magic, back.

Fire’ then jumps on Arachnitor, sword in hoof, and tries to land a blow, but the mutated changeling just blocks them. He then tries to channel more power into the sword and slashes again, but Arachnitor just blocks it. “This is a lot harder than I thought!” Fire’ then regroups with the others. “Twilight! Turn him to stone, now!”

“Right. Girls, let's do this!” Twilight, AJ, Rainbow, Rarity, Fluttershy and Pinkie then uses the powers of the Elements of Harmony and fires a blast like the one used on Nightmare Moon. But, when it hits, it does cause Arachnitor to scream in pain, but it doesn't do anything else.

“WHAT THE! YOU GOTTA BE KIDDING ME!” Rainbow said.

“Lets try it again, only with the Elements of Nature too!” Blitz said. They then do it, but this time with the Elements of Nature (water, earth, lightning and air only right now), but the same thing happens again.

“This is gettin’ really bad!” Applejack said as Arachnitor gets up agin.

“What now?” Rainbow said.

“What if ... me, Shining, Celestia, Luna and Lunar help power the attack this time.” Fire’ said.

“Thats golden!” Golden Rod said. “You guys do that, and I’ll send it on its way!” GR then gets in between Team Avatar and the mutated Arachnitor.

“But ... won’t we ... you know, hit you?” Fluttershy said.

“Oh no you won’t!” GR said as he stops. “I got a golden move that will keep me safe and power up our attack even more!”

“All right.” Fluttershy said.

“I sure hope you know what you're doing.” Fire’ said.

“Go for it!” Golden Rod said as he takes out his Barracuda Blade. The group then do the attack again, with Celestia, Luna, Lunar, Shining and Fire’ powering it up again.

“Here comes the BLAST!!!!” Rainbow yelled as the blast gets a little too close to Golden Rod.

GR then jumps right before the attack hits him and spins in midair. “Now lets put a super spin on that blast!” As he is spinning, the attack is also going around him and condenses into 10 different crescent blades. He then throws them at Arachnitor, each one hitting one by one. When the last one hit, Arachnitor begins to turn to stone, and then goes *BOOM*!

“Nice one!” Applejack said as Fire,’ GR, Blitz, Terra, Ar and Agua turn back to normal.

==================================================================

Later, the entire group is helping to rebuild the devastation due to Arachnitor’s rampaged. “That mutated bug sure did cause a lot of damage.” Rarity said as she levitates some debris and repairs it into the original shape, a candle shop.

“I don’t like the idea of the changelings finding a way to mutate like that.” Twilight said as she throws away some broken tables.

“It probably has something to do with the coming Sozin’s Comet.” Zuko said as he helps an injured Lyra and Bon Bon to a medical truck, both of them having bandages on their heads.

“Which is why, when were done, I’ll get back to programing the Black Box.” Golden Rod said as he lifts a large cinderblock and finds a doll that looks like Smarty Pants, only pink and blue with a wand and a horn.

“Fire’?” Twilight said as Fire’ helps Fancypants get to a medical truck, who has a broken leg. “You okay?”

“I’m fine. I just need some fresh air for now.”

Chapter 11, Broken Dreams

The Elements of Nature
Book 3: 气 (Air)
Chapter 11, Broken Dreams

At the palace garden, the group is training. Twilight is practicing a new spell. Agua is practicing bending the water in plants with Hielo, like the humans of the Foggy Swamp and Huu showed her. Terra is still practicing and perfecting her metalbending. Zuko and Blitz are practicing a few new moves Blitz has, while Fire’ practices with his sword on a wooden dummy. Fire’ then remembers what Deker said to him. “‘Were both warped, twisted. Confused about what our destinies truly are and how to defined them.’”

“Dude.” Rainbow said to Fire,’ snapping him out of it. “Dude, you just stopped. It was like you were a million miles away.”

“You okay?” Twilight asked.

“It was nothing.” Fire’ said. “I just ... have a lot on my mind, is all.”

“I think being captured by Deker has really gotten to you.” Lunar said.

“You can talk to us, Fire.’” Cadence said. “We’re here for you.”

“Oh, I can cook dinner tonight!” Agua said as quickly as she leaves.

“Uh oh.” Hielo said, remembering the last time Agua cooked dinner.

“Why ‘Uh oh’?” Blitz asked.

“Lets just say, the last time Agua cooked dinner for me and Arnook, our mouths were glued shut for a week.” Hielo said.

“So ... she’s a bad cook?” Twilight said.

“The worst.” Hielo answered. “I remember one time she made me a peanut butter and jelly sandwich omelet.”

“Blah.” The entire group said. “Did you tell her that she’s a horribly cook?” Rainbow asked.

“No. I don’t want to hurt her feelings.” Hielo said.

==================================================================

At the changeling hive, Chrysalis is punishing Hexe. “You failed me AGAIN!” Chrysalis said as she walks over to an injured Hexe, who's bleeding red blood, unlike the normally green blood of changelings. “ Hexe, I ordered you to destroy Deker! But you dare return without even attacking that dog! Why?!”

“Ooh-ah-ooh, beating Deker isn't an easy thing to do!” Medizinisch said while defending Hexe. “Maybe she wasn't up to it. Tell the Queen your sorry, Hexe.” Medizinisch said as Hexe slowly sits upright.

“No!” Hexe firmly said. “If your angry with me, then destroy me.”

“What did you say?!” Chrysalis said, clearly annoyed.

“You herd me. You never understand. Ever since I gave up my spirit to evil, I’ve experienced nothing but pain. Nothing but sorrow - century after century of constant heartache.” Hexe said as she retunes her Harmonium, which Chrysalis notices.

“Oh, really?” Chrysalis sarcastically said. “Then I guess you don’t need harmonium.” Chrysalis then takes Hexe’s instrument and uses a spell to set it on fire. She then tosses it across the chamber, shocking even Discord about this level of cruelty.

“NO!” Hexe said as she quickly gets up and puts out the fire. “MY HARMONIUM! YOU'VE RUINED IT!” Hexe said as she begins to cry.

Chrysalis then walks over to her. “You chose to trade you spirit to darkness! That deal can’t be undone! It’s time for you to forget your pathetic past.”

“How could you do this to me?” Hexe said when she finally stops crying, thou she is still terry eyed. “I knew you were evil, but this! I have to get it fixed!” Hexe then leaves for Canterlot.

“Ooh-ah-ooh, come back Hexe!”

“She won’t get far.” Chrysalis said as she sits down. “Call in Stupor.”

“Him?” Medizinisch asked, knowing the changeling Stupor’s reputation.

“Oh! What are you gonna do?” Discord asked.

==================================================================

At the middle school the teen CMC are at, Sweetie Belle is stemming a guitar while other students are enjoying lunch, with Snips and Snails having tire table completely covered. “This is the most beautiful sight I have ever seen.” They both said at the same time before they dig in like pigs.

A portal then opens across the street near a market, and Hexe steps through. “How could she?” At the school, Sweetie begins to play, attracting a small croup, and catching Hexe’s attention. “Huh, music?” She then realizes something and pushes the crowd away and stops right in front of Sweetie Belle. “Hello.”

“H-H-H-H-Hexe!” Sweetie said out of pure fear, remembering the last time she saw Hexe.

“Nice tune.” Hexe said as she picks Sweetie up and scares away some of the other students. Agua was heading back to the palace when she sees Hexe. “Your musical essence is just what I need to repair my instrument.” Hexe then grabs Sweetie. Agua then drops her grocery bags and goes elemental and charges at Hexe.

“Let her go, or I’ll make you let her go!” Agua said as she pulls out her trident. Agua then tries to stab Hexe, but she manages to avoid each one, all the while holding a terrified Sweetie Belle.

Hexe then uses her magic to hold onto Agua’s trident for a second. “You want her so bad?” Agua then breaks free. “Here!” Hexe then tosses Sweetie at Agua, knocking both of them to the ground. Hexe then takes Sweetie again.

“Please, let me go.” Sweetie Belle quietly and worriedly said.

“Not a chance, Sweetie! And don’t interfere, Water Avatar!” Hexe firmly said. Agua and Hexe then start the fight again.

“You're not going anywhere with her!” Apple Bloom and Scootaloo said as they tackle Hexe. The four then take a stance to each other.

Just then, at the school, another portal opens and a changeling that has a small open bulge on its leg pops out. “Nighty-night!” The changeling said as he blows a mist from the bulge that puts all the students, Snips and Snails included, and some grown up ponies to sleep. Agua, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, Hexe, and Sweetie take notice of whats happening. They see a normal looking changeling, only with the bulge on his leg and some armor, walk up to them. “Sleep tight. Don’t let the bedbugs bite.”

“Stupor! What are you doing here?” Hexe said to the changeling.

“The Queen sent me!” Stupor answered. “It’s nap time for you!” Stupor then blows the mist at them. Agua, Scootaloo, and Apple Bloom get out-of-the-way while Hexe uses Sweetie as a living shield, causing her to fall asleep also.

“Sweetie Belle!” Apple Bloom said as Hexe drops an unconscious Sweetie to the ground.

“This is Queen Chrysalis’ wake up call. I’m not coming back!” Hexe firmly said.

Just then, Fire’ arrives and fires a blast at Stupor. The others soon join him. “Sweetie!!!!” Rarity said when she sees Sweetie on the ground.

“Is she okay?” Rainbow asked.

“The Avatars!” Stupor annoyingly said. “Oh come on, I’m working here!” Stupor then takes out a club and tries to bash them, but he misses each one of them.

“Not much on depth perception, huh?” Blitz mockingly said.

As they fight, Hexe walks over to Sweetie, who Scootaloo and Apple Bloom have no idea that she’s in trouble due to them watching and hoping that the group won’t get hurt. “I have plans for you.” Hexe said as she picks up Sweetie and walks away. “It’s time to fix my Harmonium.”

“Die. Sweetie!” Rarity said as she goes after Hexe with Agua.

“Girls, wait!” Twilight said. But Stupor blows some mist her way, but Fire’ gets her out-of-the-way just in time. “Thanks, Brandy.”

“No problem, Twiley. Go help them.” Fire’ said. When Twilight leaves, Fire’ blushes when he realizes what Twilight just called him. Stupor then sends some of the group back a little.

“Time to turn out the lights!” Stupor said as he prepares his mist blower.

“Not so fast, big butt!” Golden Rod said as he throws some knifes at Stupor and gets in between Stupor and the group with some royal guards.

“Golden Rod!” Fire’ said when he sees his old friend.

“Leave this to me.” Golden Rod said, turning his head for a second. But when GR turns his head back, Stupor blows some mist and sends him and the royal guards to sleep.

“Of course.” Blitz said when he sees the irony. Shining Armor, Celestia, Luna and Lunar then show up.

“What the hay just happened.” Shining asked.

“Not exactly for all of you to take a nap.” Fire’ said.

“And they won’t wake up, until I say so.” Stupor said to them. “Yum, the more they dream, the tastier the snake they’ll be for me and the other changelings.”

“Changeling. Do you really think were just gonna stand here and let that happen.” Celestia said.

“Of course not.” Stupor said. “I gulp down my and the others grub in the dream world. But I’ll let them marinate for a while. First things first. I’m gonna catch Die.” Stupor then jumps into a portal that leads to the dream world above Golden Rod. The portal then disappears.

“What the hay was that?” Applejack asked.

“An inter-dimensional portal.” Celestia said.

==================================================================

At Canterlot Park, Agua are fighting Hexe, who drop Sweetie on the grass. Rarity is busy trying to wake Sweetie up while Agua and Hexe fight. “You have an annoying habit of meddling in my affairs, Element of Water!”

“Keep being evil, and we’ll keep stopping you.” Agua said. Just then, a portal opens over Sweetie and Stupor pops out.

He then puts Rarity to sleep. “Nighty-night. Sleep tight, ladies.” Stupor then blows his mist at Hexe and Agua. “Pleasant dreams. But not for you, Hexe.” Agua then turns back to normal as Agua and Hexe roll down a hill, with Agua stopping one-second after Hexe. “That was easy! Me and the other changelings are gonna have enough food in the dream world to feast a whole week! But first, I’m gonna find the biggest and juiciest pony I can find there, one completely stuffed with love.” He then opens a portal above Rarity and jumps in. On the bottom of the hill, Agua tries to stay awake, but falls asleep.

==================================================================

At the royal archives, Bastion Yorsets is searching thought the archives about the changelings when he finds an entry about Stupor. “Celestia, that changeling is called Stupor. He puts his victims to sleep and enters into their dreams with other changelings of different classes.”

==================================================================

At the school, the group is looking around at all the sleeping ponies, while Celestia is talking on the phone with Bastion. “His victims than experience vivid fantasies, usually happy ones. Once devoured, his victims never wake up in the real world again.” When Bastion said that, Celestia’s calm face turns to one of worry. “Who knows how long until Stupor or other changelings will start eating their victims. You need to find and destroy him before it’s too late.”

“Understood. Thank you Bastion.” Celestia then hangs up.

“Whats the deal?” Rainbow asked.

“We need to find a way to the dream world.” Celestia told her and the others.

“So we have to find our way to the dream world.” Blitz said.

“How the hay are we gonna do that?” Applejack asked.

“Me, Luna, Lunar, Shining, and Fire’ will open a portal to the dream world.” Celestia said as she walks over to Golden Rod. “I’m not sure how much energy it will take, which is why I want Luna, Lunar, Shining, and Firebrand to help. But we can do it.”

“I hope you’re right.” Scootaloo said.

“Wait, you two are not comin’!” Applejack said.

“But AJ, Sweetie is also trap in the dream world. We want to help her. Once a crusader, alway a crusader.” Apple Bloom said to her older sister.

“Fine.” AJ said.

==================================================================

In the dream world, Agua is preparing a dining table while humming to herself. “Who said I couldn't cook. Wait until they taste the gourmet meal I’ve made.” Agua said when she finishes. She then hears a faint cry and sees a small back void. She walks into it and sees Deker in his Unicorn form and a mare that's a younger version of Granny Smith, only a Unicorn with a red mane and tail and a harmonium for a cutie mark.

“Is that Deker?” Agua said when she notices that Deker has a suit on while the mare has a wedding dress. “Wedding dress?”

==================================================================

At the school, the Alicorns, Shining and Fire’ are preparing the spell. “I’m not sure we can keep the portal open for very long.” Celestia said as her horn begins to glow. “Jump in as soon as it opens.”

“Got it!” Rainbow said.

“Hang on Sweetie! Helps on the way!” Apple Bloom said as Celestia, Luna, Lunar, Fire’ and Shining cast the spell.

All five of them are grunting in pain as the spell begins to take its toll. Just before they faint, a portal opens above one of the guards. “GO!” Shining yelled. Applejack, Apple Bloom, Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo, Terra, Blitz, and Ar jump in right when the portal begins to close. After that, the three Alicorns and two Unicorns nearly faint and fall to the ground.

“Are you all right?” Fluttershy asked as she and Pinkie help Celestia get to her hoofs.

“Were fine.” Fire’ said. “Did they make it?”

“Yuper do!” Pinkie answered.

==================================================================

In the dream world, Applejack, Apple Bloom, Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo, Terra, Blitz, and Ar land in one pice. “Whooowee! It worked!” Applejack said. They then see that the dream world is just like the real world, only more grey and with ponies having dreams like Earth Ponies flying while Pegasi uses Unicorn magic.

“This is the dream world?” Ar asked. “It seams normal.”

“Yeah. Normal.” Rainbow said when she sees an Earth Pony act like a dog. They then walk near a lake when they hear...

“Check this out.”

“Golden Rod?” Apple Bloom said when they see Golden Rod with a large gold trophy.

“I did it! World’s Biggest Fish of the Year!” He said as he uses his magic to lift up the trophy to show to the crowd.

“GR.” Applejack said when he group reach him. “You’re just dreaming, sugarcube.”

“Dude, this isn't real.” Rainbow said.

“What are you doing?” GR said as he walks down to them. “This is my golden moment.”

“Your in a changelings dream world.” Blitz said. “Nothing here is real.”

“Tell that to my trophy!” Golden Rod said. Applejack, Rainbow, Blitz and Terra then try to take the trophy from Golden Rod, hopping that will snap him out.

“Guys, stop!” Scootaloo said.

“This is not good.” Ar said.

“I say there, stop!” Apple Bloom and Scootaloo instantly recognize the voice and see Snips walking to them in a chariot being pulled by Snails. Snips also has samurai armor on, along with a samurai sword, while Snails is dressed like a Japanese peasant. “I am here to protect the innocent. I am dismounting.” Snips said as Snails helps him down, only for Snips to accidentally fall on Snails.

“Those two are still idiots even here.” Apple Bloom said.

Snips then quickly gets up. “Oh, good, I didn't hurt anything.”

“You hurt me, Samurai Snips.” Snails said as he gets up and takes the chariot away.

Just then, Stupor shows up and sees Snips. “Ah, tasty.” Stupor said when Snips takes notice. “You’ll make one heck of a lunch.”

“Please,” Snips said as he reaches for his sword, “I have come to destroy such creatures as your smelly, vile self.” When Snips tires to pull out his sword, it doesn't come out. Its stuck.

“Guys, we got trouble.” Scootaloo said as Snails runs up to Snips to help pull out the sword, to no avail.

“After the main course,” Stupor said when he sees Snails, “I’ll find room for you too, pipsqueak.”

“Rainbow! AJ! Terra! Blitz!” Apple Bloom said as Snips and Snails begins to scream as Stupor walks closer. The group then charge at Stupor as he opens his mouth crazy wide to swallow Snips and Snails in the big bite. But before he could eat the two cowering Unicorn colts, the group tackle him.

Ar, Terra and Blitz then go element and take on a fighting stance. “What? The Avatars! And the Elements of Honesty and Loyalty!” Stupor said out of complete shock. “How did you get to my dream world? I didn't put you to sleep.”

“We’re crashing your slumber party.” Rainbow said.

“Thats right, we’re gonna give you a dose of reality.” Applejack said.

“Your dreaming!” Ar then blows a tornado at Stupor and sends him to the other side of the dream worlds Canterlot. The group then find him on the ground as he gets up. “Nice try, but guess what? Your on my turf now, and here we play by our rules. Ta-da!”

The ground below the group then lifts up and flips over, sending the group every which way. “Ow, my flank!” Rainbow said as she lands hard on the ground. She then notices something that completely terrifies her beyond comprehension. “MY WINGS!”

“My wings are gone to!” Blitz and Scootaloo said at the same time.

Stupor then appears from a puff of smoke behind them, laughing. “In this world, I always win. I can do anything I dream of.” Just then, a large boulder appears net to the changeling. “You could say I’m on a roll.” The boulder then rolls to the group at a high-speed.

Terra tries to stop it, but ... “I can't bend it!”

“No way! Run!” Rainbow said as the group run for their lives.

“Talk about being between a rock and a hard place.” Blitz said as they run is circles to try to avoid the large rock. Rainbow and Applejack than stop to stop the boulder, but it just runs them over, making a *squish* sound, but they are still alive, just flatter than pancakes.

“Rainbow! Applejack!” Ar said as they fall off the bolder as it continues to chase the group.

As they run, Apple bloom realizes something. “Wait, y’all!” She then stops and feces the oncoming boulder. “This is our dream world too, right?”

“Yeah.” The entire group, except Ar, said.

“I got a plan. Time for some soccer.” Apple Bloom then grows to the size of a Ursa Minor.

“Epic, Apple Bloom!” Scootaloo said as Apple Bloom the kicks the bolder, which turns into a soccer ball, along with Terra.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa!” Stupor menage to say before the giant soccer ball hits him, followed by Terra landing on his stomach.

The rest of the group then arrive. “Now that were getting a hang of this dream world, were getting a kick out of it.” Rainbow said.

“What a snooze!” Stupor said out of despair. “I’m out of here.” Stupor then makes a run for it.

“Let’s get him.” Applejack said as they give chase.

==================================================================

At Canterlot Park, Agua and Hexe are still asleep as Twilight looks for them. “Agua! Rarity! Where are you? It feels like I’ve been running around in circles. Where could they be?” Twilight said as she keeps searching.

==================================================================

In Agua’s part of the dream world, she sees Deker and the green mare enter a small shake. The two then kiss. “I have a wedding gift for you.” The mare said. Agua then sees Hexe crying at the sight.

“ Hexe. This must be her dream.” The mare goes to one side of the shake while Deker goes to the other side. The mare then pulls out a samurai sword. “For my brave samurai.” The mare said as she turns around with the sword. She then sees Deker with a guitar for her. This both shocks and pleases the mare.

Agua then realizes something. “Hexe and Deker were married.” Agua then smiles at the sight. But her smile leaves when she sees the shake the younger Hexe and Deker are in beginning to catch on fire.

The crackling causes Hexe to wake up. “Deker!” The young Hexe said as their home begins to burn down. Later, after both Deker and Hexe escape, Deker is lying on the ground, coughing while he holds Hexe’s hoof. Both of them have burns on them. “Please.” The young Hexe said. “Someone hear my call.”

Just then, a large changeling that looks like a male version of Chrysalis, only with larger wings and a stronger build, appears. It’s King Mantises. The young Hexe just stares at him with shock and hatred. “I can save him ... for a price.” He said.

“Please.” The young Hexe begged.

“Simply trade your ponydom for an eternity with the changelings.” Hexe then looks at her injured husband as he begins to fade. “Make up your mind. He’s fading fast.”

After a moment, Hexe comes to her decision. “I accept.”

“Then move away from him.” Hexe does so and moves a few feet away. “You have made your choice.” Mantises then casts a spell on Deker, saving him. Hexe then grabs her wedding present as she watches. “He shall live ... but as a cursed half-pony and half-changeling with no memory of you.”

“What?” Hexe said out of disbelief. “No! You tricked me!” Hexe said as Mantis disappears while laughing. Deker then gasps and slowly gets up. He then turns into his changeling form and screams before disappearing. Hexe then turns around as a green fire engulfs her. When it disappears, she’s now in her changeling form. She then begins to cry.

“ Hexe, no wonder you're so tormented.” Agua thought to herself out of pity.

==================================================================

In the real world, a portal appears above Sweetie Belle. Applejack, Apple Bloom, Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo, Terra, Blitz, and Ar then jump out with Stupor. “Got you!” Both Applejack and Rainbow said.

After they land, Applejack, Apple Bloom, Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo, Terra, Blitz, and Ar take on fighting stances while Stupor gets up from the ground. “You made me miss my snake!”

“Were putting your big butt on a diet!” Blitz said as Terra charges at Stupor. He tries to blow some sleep mist, but Terra ducks and, using her scythe, cuts off Stupor’s Mist Blower, along with part of his leg.

“My Mist Blower!” Stupor said out of despair as it lands, now completely useless. “That means all my sleeping snakes will wake up!” As the group fight Stupor, Sweetie and Rarity wake up and see whats happening.

“Come on sis, let help.”

“Right, Sweetie. Lets help.” Rarity and Sweetie then punch Stupor in the gut when they get the chance.

“Your going to bed without your supper, creep!” Scootaloo said.

“Were about to dash your dreams.” Rainbow said as she breaks Stupor’s leg.

Blitz then prepares to fire a lighting bolt at Stupor. “Say buy-buy.” Blitz said as he prepares to fire.

“Your off target, and I’m out of here!” Stupor said as Blitz fires. A portal then appears below Stupor and jumps in, barely missing the bolt of lightning.

“Oh, we just miss him.” Applejack said.

“So close!” Rainbow said.

==================================================================

At the school, all the students begin to wake up, including Golden Rod and the guards. GR then notices his trophy is gone. “Where’s my trophy?”

“Golden Rod.” Fire’ said behind him.

“Fire.’ Shining. Celestia. Luna. Lunar. What happened?” Golden Rod asked.

“You were trapped in the dream world.” Celestia said.

“Applejack, Apple Bloom, Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo, Terra, Blitz, and Ar went in and saved you.” Lunar finished.

“Yeah, they were there.” GR said as he gets up.

Right above them, Medizinisch appears. “Ooh-ah-ooh. Fire Avatar, now I got you.” He said as he sees the royal guards, Golden Rod, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie help Celestia, Luna, Lunar, Shining, and Fire’ get on their hoofs. “This is the perfect time to put an end to your sealing spell for good.”

Just then, some changeling drones appear around the group. “Uh-oh, we’ve got bad company.” Golden Rod said.

“We need to take care of these guys fast.” Fire’ said as he goes Elemental.

Golden Rod then takes out his Avatar Morpher. “Alright, buddy. Lets do this together, just like when we were foals playing in your backyard. The six of us, mines Pinkie and Fluttershy here of course, against he bugs. Gold Power!" Golden Rod then turns into his elemental form. "Are you sure your up to this?”

“I’ve got no choice.” Fire’ said as they fight the changelings. Golden Rod quickly takes care of most of the drones while Fire’ burns others.

“I’m sick and tired of you ugly bugs getting though my SHIELD!” Shining said as he fires a laser blast at the remaining bugs.

==================================================================

At the spot Agua and Hexe are at, Agua begins to wake up. “Was I dreaming?” She quietly said. She then hears crying and sees Die behind her. “ Hexe?” She then remembers what she saw in the dream world. “And Deker?” Agua the slowly gets up.

“Even now, how I miss you.” Hexe said. Agua the walks a little bit to Hexe until she steps on a branch, alerting Hexe to her present. “I see, I thought I sensed someone or something in my dream.” Hexe said as she gets up and turns around. “It was you. You had no right to spy on me.” Hexe then takes out her dagger. Agua then grabs her trident, but stops. “Lost your nerves, Avatar?”

“Is it too late for you to return to your pony form?” Agua asked with sympathy.

“Your so naive that you would seek the save me rather than destroy me?” Hexe said. “I don’t need your pity.” Hexe then attacks, but Twilight takes the hit instead when she ran up.

“Twilight!” Agua said as she runs over to a bleeding Twilight as Hexe leaves.

“I have no time for this.” Hexe said as she leaves.

“To think I wanted to help you.” Agua said as she uses her healing to help Twilight.

==================================================================

At a storage area of Canterlot, Fire,’ Shining and Golden Rod limply walk to some crates and sit down, with Celestia, Luna, Lunar, Pinkie, Fluttershy and the guards following. “Good job.” Fire’ said to GR. “Just like old times.”

“Are you okay?” Fluttershy asked.

“Every muscle hurts.” Golden Rod said. Just then...

“Uh-oh.” Pinkie said. “I feel a combo coming on.” Pinkie’s tail than twitches, flowed by eye flutter and ear flapping.

“Combo?” Celestia said. “Does that have something to do with your Pinkie Scene Twilight told me about?”

“Yuper do!” Pinkie then gets a pinchy knee. “Looks like something scary is going to happen after the unexpected thing.”

“Wait, a twitchy tail, flowed by eye flutter and then ear flapping, means something unexpected is going to happen.” Fire’ said. Just then, a garage door opens as a pony in heavy black boots walks to the middle, catching the group's attention, with Fluttershy hiding behind a Unicorn guard. They see that the pony also has a white rob and a katana.

Golden Rod then realizes who it is as the pony stops in the middle of the opening door. It’s Deker. “Oh, no, not him again.” Golden Rod said. Fire’ then gets up and walks a little bit to Deker. “Fire,’ what do you think you're doing?” GR said as he follows Firebrand along with Lunar and a Pegasus guard.

“Why do you want to fight him now?” Lunar asked Deker while Golden Rod helps keep Fire’ standing. “Why?” Lunar said as Deker pulls out his Uramasa and points it at Fire.’

Chapter 12, The Ultimate Duel

The Elements of Nature
Book 3: 气 (Air)
Chapter 12, The Ultimate Duel

Hexe then attacks Agua, but Twilight takes the hit instead when she ran up. “Twilight!” Agua said as she runs over to a bleeding Twilight as Hexe leaves. “To think I wanted to help you.” Agua said as she uses her healing to help Twilight. “I thought you still had a shred of ponydom in you, but I guess I was wrong.”

Hexe then stops and looks at Agua. “You’re right ... fighting you naive little fillies serves me no purpose.”

Hexe then leaves as Twilight slowly gets up, with some help from Agua. “Don’t worry.” Twilight said. “I’ll be okay.”

“No thanks to me.” Agua said as the two leave.

==================================================================

As Deker continues to point his Uramasa at Fire,’ Lunar and Golden Rod continue to convince him to stop. “Why now?” Luna asked.

“He’s too exhausted.” Lunar argued. Fire’ then nearly collapses, but the Pegasus guard keeps him steady.

Just then, some changeling drones appear behind Deker in the warehouse. “Not good.” Shining said as Deker tightens his grip on Uramasa.

“Queen Chrysalis, Discord, and their noodle-faced crony Medizinisch have seen to it that we are interrupted yet again.” Deker said to Fire’ as he turns into his changeling form. The drones then charge at Fire.’ “No one touches the Fire Avatar.” Deker said. “He’s mine!” Deker then runs up and slashes at two drones, killing them. The drones then surround Deker as he takes on a fighting stance. “Come on!” Deker challenged. The drones then attack, but Deker easily kills them with minimal effort.

“He’s relentless.” Fluttershy said when she sees Deker cut off the heads of ten drones in 5 seconds flat.

Deker then spins around and kills the last of the drones with a small energy wave. “Not even a challenge for him.” Golden Rod said to Fire,’ who is just starring at Deker as he re-sheaths his Uramasa and turns into his pony form.

“All right, Fire Avatar.” Deker said to Fire’ without even looking at him. “Our time to duel has come.”

“No, not now.” Golden Rod said as he gets in between Fire’ and Deker along with Shining and Lunar. “We just finished a battle. Besides, we Unicorns don’t fight for the sake of fighting.”

“Fire Avatar, I’ll give you 24 hours.” Deker said. “But there will be no further delay. Tomorrow, metal will meet metal.”

“Didn't you here Golden Rod?” Fire’ said as he walks past the two Unicorns and Alicorn. “I won’t fight for fighting sake. I only fight to protect the innocent and my friends.”

“Well, then.” Deker began to say. “If you don’t show, I doubt I’ll be able to control myself.”

“What’s that mean?” Celestia asked.

“If the Fire Avatar disappoints me, Princess, I may not be able to hold my changeling side back much longer. I could possibly attack whoever is near.” Deker said.

“You’d threaten random ponies?” Luna said. “Then you’re not a half pony, you’re true changeling.”

“Call me what you want.” Deker replied. “But no one will be safe. And my victims’ pain, will be your fault, Fire Avatar, not mine.”

“Then you leave me no choice.” Fire’ said, getting looks from everypony but Dekker. “I will fight, and I will defeat you.”

“Noon.” Deker said as he gives Fire’ the time and place. “Tomorrow. By the Everfree.” Deker then leaves.

==================================================================

At the changeling hive in the Sahara, Medizinisch is walking around in a circle with Discord and Chrysalis watching, with the later drinking some medicine. Stupor is also there, getting bandaged up. “Ooh-ah-ooh. The Fire Avatar and Deker are both giving me a headache.”

“Oh, how much I despise Deker.” Chrysalis said with an intimidating growl. “But ... if he eliminates the Fire Avatar, he’ll destroy the last descendent of Star Swirl the Bearded too.”

“Then nothing will stand in our way.” Discord said as he drinks some chocolate milk, glass and all.

“Yes, and the Element of Magic’s love of the soon deceased Fire Avatar is the best medicine.” Chrysalis said as she drinks some more.

“I’m the one who needs medicine!” Stupor complained when the drones finished with the bandages. “Those lousy Avatars cut off my mist blower. If I can’t put ponies to sleep, how am I and other changelings supposed to eat in the dream world.” He then wines and waves his legs about like a baby.

“Eat?” Chrysalis yelled. “You didn't even get one ounce of love energy for us to use! You completely failed your mission. I should let the drones eat you!”

“No!” Stupor argued. “I can do better.”

“Then I suggest you go back and really get some love from the Equestrians.” Medizinisch said.

“I will.” Stupor said while bowing. “This time I won’t fail.”

==================================================================

At the Canterlot palaces kitchen, Agua is pouring some tea for Twilight, who walks in. “Hey, Agua.”

“I was just going to bring some tea for you.” Agua said as Twilight walks over to her.

“Thank you, but you need to stop fussing over me.” Twilight said. “I already got enough trouble from my parents and Cadence. I’m almost as good as new, thanks to you.”

Agua just looks down as she takes the cup. “It’s just that when it was time to fight Hexe, I hesitated, and you got hurt.”

“I understand.” Twilight said as Agua puts the cup in front of her. “Seeing Hexe’s past in that dream world, it must have been hard on you.”

“Thats the problem.” Agua said. “I can’t afford to let my feelings to get the better of my judgment anymore.”

“You’re really being too hard on yourself.” Twilight said to the Water Avatar.

Zuko then walks in, startling the two. “Guys, we’re all meeting in the throne room. It’s important.”

==================================================================

One explanation later, Twilight is walking around a circle with Spike on her back. “Fire,’ this is crazy.” Twilight argued. “Take on Deker and do it alone?”

“Deker insist that's how it has to be.” Fluttershy said.

“You can’t do this.” Twilight said. “It’s part of the Unicorn code that Unicorns only fight battles that are necessary.”

“This is necessary.” Shining said to his little sister. “Deker threaten to hurt innocent ponies if Fire’ doesn't go.”

“Okay, fine.” Blitz said. “We’ll handle him like any other threat. As a team.”

“Guys, you don’t get it.” Fire’ said. “If I’m not alone, it won’t satisfy him.”

“Since when do we let an ugly bug tell us how to battle?” Blitz argued.

“I know now that Deker won’t stop until Firebrand duels him.” Agua said as Hielo holds her hoof. “We have to let him go.”

“Ar?” Blitz asked the Air Avatar. “What do you think?”

“If fate will allow it, I don’t see a reason to stop it.” Ar answered.

“How can you two say that?” Twilight asked them. “Fire’ isn’t only our leader, but he’s also the only one who can learn the sealing spell without using Elements of Harmony.” Twilight than turns to Fire.’ “Your the key to stopping the changelings and Discord.”

“Twi’s right.” Cadence said. “You shouldn't risk it.”

“This discussion is over.” Fire’ angrily said as he storms off. Twilight then sighs out of pure sadness.

==================================================================

At the Everfree Forest, Hexe is sitting on the ground, crying over her burnt harmonium. Deker happens to walk by and notices this. He then quietly walks over to her. “After all these years, your all I had left of the life I wanted so badly.” She sadly said. “Now, even this has become ugly. It’s too much to take.”

“What are you doing in Equestria?” Deker asked, startling Hexe.

“Nothing.” Is all Hexe could say as she gets up. “What are you doing here?”

“My eternal search for a worthy opponent finally ends tomorrow.” Deker answered.

Hexe then gasps. “Tomorrow?”

“Yes.” Deker said as he walks past Hexe. “My thirst for the ultimate duel shall finally be quenched. Win or lose, I shall be free.”

“I hope thats true.” Hexe said. “You should have been free centuries ago.” Deker then abruptly leaves. “Deker, I...” But Hexe stops mid-sentence as he leaves. She then heads deeper onto the forest, determine to end her suffering once and for all.

==================================================================

Later that night, Fire’ is in the court yard, practicing with his sword, when Twilight walks up. “Fire.’” Twilight said, causing Fire’ to stop. “How can I talk you out of this?”

“You can’t.” Fire’ said to them. Fire’ then does some more slashes. “But you can help me get ready. I’ve got some special moves I want to practice.”

“Anything for you, Brandy.” Twilight said as she takes a wooden sword like the one Fire’ is practicing with. The two then have a practice battle (a friendly one).

==================================================================

In the dinning hall, some waiters give the group some tea. The only ones in the group not stress about Fire’ battling Deker is Golden Rod, Pinkie Pie (big surprise), and Lunar Eclipse. “Why are we so worried?” Golden Rod said to the group. “I’ve known Firebrand since foalhood. He can beat anyone. He’ll be fine.”

“Yeah, I’m sure he will.” Applejack said as she drinks some tea.

“Yeah.” Rainbow said.

“All I know, is that Deker needs to be dealt with,” Agua began, “and hesitating will be a mistake.”

“I’m afraid Agua is right.” Bastion Yorsets said as he enters the room. “There is no other choice but to fight Deker. We just have to have faith that Firebrand is prepared for this battle.”

“I have complete faith.” Ar said.

==================================================================

In the Everfree Forest, Deker in his changeling form is heading for the edge when he stops to look at the moon. “This shall be the final night of my curse. Tomorrow, I shall wield my sword, Uramasa, in the ultimate duel.” He then continues on his way to the spot where he is to meet Fire.’

==================================================================

The next morning, Fire’ heads outside of the castle and sees the entire group waiting for him. And not just Celestia, Luna, Lunar, Zuko, Cadence, Shining, the main six, the CMC, and the other Avatars, but also Arnook, Twilight and Shining’s parents, the Apple Family (at least Granny Smith and Big Macintosh), Fancypants with a cast on his leg, Spitfire and Sorin.’ Fire’ begins to walk to the gat when Twilight says, “Good luck, Fire.’”

“You can do this.” Rainbow said.

“You’re the best.” Golden Rod said as he places his hoof on Fire’s shoulder. “I’ve known that since we were colts, and its no different today.”

“Do what needs to be done.” Agua said. Fire’ then nodes and le-

“Princess!” A guard yelled as he runs up, interrupting the mood. “Stupor is back!”

“Go.” Fire’ said, getting looks from he group.

“Are you sure?” Twilight asked her crush.

“I’m sure.” Fire’ said. “I need to deal with Deker. Blitz, you're in charge while you take care of Stupor.”

“I ... I’ll do it.” Blitz said, still shocked. “Lets’ go!” Fire’ then leaves to the Everfree while the others go to where Stupor is at.

==================================================================

On Canterlot’s main street, Stupor and some drones are chasing some ponies. “Get back here!” Stupor said. “If I can’t tenderize you in the dream world, I’ll just wolf you all down uncooked like most changelings.” He said as he catches up to a nerdy Unicorn colt. “Maybe, like some of those drones say, you’ll taste better raw, just like sushi.”

He then gets a bolt of lightning in his mouth instead of the Unicorn’s love energy. He lets the colt go when he sees the Avatars, Lunar, Shining, Zuko, and the main six running up. “All right, team, we can do this.” Blitz said as he, Terra, Golden Rod, Ar, and Agua go elemental while Zuko forms some daggers made of fire.

“All right drones! Attack!” Stupor yelled as his drones charge.

“For Firebrand!” Twilight said as a battle ensures.

==================================================================

At the edge of the Everfree Forest, near a lake, Deker is watching the water move as a purple sea serpent with a strangely stylish orang hairdo eats some gems on the far side. Fire’ then walks up. “It took you long enough.” Deker said as the two face each other. “Still I knew you’d come. Just like me, you need this battle, to impress the wilder of the Element of Magic.”

“No, I’m nothing like you.” Fire’ said as he takes out his sword. “The only thing I need is to stop you from hurting anyone else.”

Deker then nodes as he goes for his Uramasa. “All that matters is that your here.” Deker then draws out his sword and turns into his changeling form. Firebrand then goes elemental as he gets ready for a fight along with Deker. “At last, the time has come.”

“Yes. For you to fall.” Fire’ said. “It’s not too late, Deker. We don’t have to do this.” Fire’ said, knowing that a fight isn't the solution.

“You still don’t understand.” Deker replied. “I have no choice but to fight to the glories end.”

“Then you leave me no choice.” Fire’ said as the situation gets worse every second. Fire’ makes the first move, by taking his sword up into the air and uses the force of gravity to help on it way down. Deker counters and a deadly duel begins. The two then somehow ended up being back to back.

“You’ll have to do better than that.” Deker said as he turns around quickly while Fire’ does the same, with their swords stopping each other.

“I’m just getting started.” Fire’ then does some slashes, which Deker avoids. Deker eventually takes Fire’ to the water where he trips. Deker then tries to stab Fire,’ but he rolls and get back up quickly.

Deker then lands a small blow to Fire’s leg. “Excellent.” Deker said as the two take a quick breather. “Your instincts are superb. You are indeed proving to be my equal. I was right to choose you, Fire Avatar.” The two then charge at each other. Fire’s sword lands on the groves of Deker’s, causing red sparks to fly as the sound of screeching metal can be heard. Deker then moves past Fire’ and lands a blow to Fire’s face on his cheek, causing some blood to spill.

==================================================================

“Hurry it up already!” An impatient, annoyed, and... “I’m hungry!” Stupor said as he watches the drones fight the group.

Blitz then kills some drones by electrocuting them. “Wake up, changeling. Your dreams are over.” Blitz then fires a bolt, but Stupor uses his magic to shield himself.

“Think again. My dreams are about to become your worst nightmare.” Stupor said as he takes a blade and charges at Blitz.

Meanwhile, Zuko, Shining, and Lunar are doing a back to back. “Lunar, why haven’t you ever used your special talent to just take away the life these bugs have?” Zuko asked the Prince of Death.

“Because these bugs are’t really alive.” Lunar answered while he cuts the head off of a drone. “They feast on love due to them not needing anything related to life, like water or food.”

“Oh, why didn't you say so?” Zuko said as he drops his fire daggers and concentrates. He then creates a small ball of fire and launches it at some drones. When it hits, it explodes while incinerating the drones while leaving the stone work intake.

“What was that?” Shining asked, stunned by the deadly attack Zuko just did.

“A fire bomb.” Zuko said as he breathes in deeply. “It a last resort, but since they were never alive to begin with...”

“Hey, sorry to interrupt your conversation.” Rainbow interrupted. “But we still have a high level changeling to deal with.”

Just then, they see Stupor sending Blitz flying to the ground. “Blitz!” Applejack said as she runs up to him along with the others.

“Hey, you all right?” Terra asked.

“Yeah.” Blitz said as he gets up. “Lets get this bug.”

Blitz stays back as the others attack Stupor, who fires a blast at each of them. Lunar isn't as affected as the others, but he is weakened by it. “Your turn, Bolt Colt!” Stupor said as he looks at Blitz, but sees...

“Say hello to my Storm Fighter!” Blitz said inside his jet.

“Uh oh.” Stupor said as Blitz locks on and fires a missile at Stupor, killing him. Blitz then steps out of his Storm Fight as it turns back to his nun-chucks.

“Whoa, that was a lot harder than I thought.” Blitz said. “But we did it.”

Celestia, Luna and Cadence then arrive. “That was impressive, Blitz.” Celestia said as Cadence hugs Shining while Rainbow hits Blitz in the back.

“That bug got turned into a fireball!” Rainbow excitedly said.

“Fire?” Twilight said, trying to remember something important. She then remembers it and her eyes become as big as dinner plates. “FIREBRAND!” Twilight said as she begins to panic. “He’s still battling Deker near the Everfree Forest.”

“Your right.” Golden Rod said. “We need to get there now!”

==================================================================

Meanwhile, at a cliff near the Everfree, Deker and Fire’ are still dueling. Fire’ now has severely deep cuts on his front legs, chest, and face, while Deker now has deep cuts in the same areas, along with the tips of his spike cut off, red blood oozing from both of their wounds. “I’ve waited for this ultimate duel for so long, and you have not disappointed me.” Deker said as Fire’ leads them closer to the edge.

“Haven’t you had enough?” Fire’ asked as Deker corners him against the cliff.

Deker then injures Fire’ at his waist. “You truly are a worthy opponent, but now I shall defeat you and bring this to an end.” Deker said as he prepares for the final blow.

“You’re right about one thing: its time for this to end.” Fire’ then attacks, but Deker hits Fire’ in his shoulder. A sound of breaking bones can be heard as Fire’ turns back to his normal form and drops his sword.

Deker laughs maliciously when Fire’ catches his sword with his other hoof and slashes Deker’s chest, leaving a deep cut. “What?” Fire’ then attacks as Deker uses his Uramasa as a shield, but the sword is cut in half as another deep cut into Deker is made. The tip if Uramasa lands a few feet away, sticking in the ground. “A master move...” A dying Deker weakly said as he drops the handle of Uramasa. “...you let me wound you...” Deker then grunts as he walks to the edge of the cliff. “...so you get close enough to finish me. Well fought, Fire Avatar. You have honored me and freed me from my torment.” Deker then stops at the edge as Fire’ watches the half pony say his last words. “Thank you.” Deker then falls off the cliff and disappears in a puff of purple smoke.

Fire’ then falls to the ground due to his injuries. “I ... I won.” He managed to say.

The others then arrive looking for him. Twilight then spots him at the cliff. “Firebrand!” Twilight said as she runs to his side, with the others following her.

“Firebrand, you all right?” A worried Celestia asked as Agua uses her healing on Fire.’

“Yeah.”

“And Deker?” Agua asked. “Is he...?”

“Gone.” Fire’ answered.

“Let’s get you back to the castle.” Blitz said as he helps Fire’ to his feet along with Shining.

==================================================================

Later at the dinning hall, Fire’ is talking to Blitz about the day they had. Fire’s leg now has a cast while most of his body has bandages. “Blitz, thank you for leading the team when I couldn't.”

“It was fun, but it’s not my job.” Blitz said as Fluttershy re-bandages Fire.’

“There can only be one natural Fire Avatar.” Shining said as he and Fire’ do a hoof bump.

“Your cuts are now gone, Fire.’” Fluttershy said when she finishes. “Your nanites have accelerated your healing process. Your leg should be fin by tonight.”

Twilight then comes by with the others to check on Fire’ when... “Hey guys.” Golden Rod said when he leaves the kitchen with a cart that has a gold cover. “Dinner is serve.” GR then uses his magic to lift the cover, showing a large chopped up fish around the size of Spike surrounded by apple slices.

“Whoa. That fish is a monster.” Rainbow said as she and the others walk up to it.

“Hey, when I serve a fish to my friends, It’s got to be the best.” Golden Rod said. “That’s the gold standard.“ The group soon dig in.

==================================================================

Later that night, Fire’ is in his apartment, with his cast now off. He is about to go to bed when he hears a knock at his door. “Come in.” Fire’ said, expecting Fluttershy saying sorry about what happened for the 300th time in a row, or Shining with a mission, or even a maid trying to ask him out. What he didn't expect was for his visitor to be “Twilight?”

Twilight closed the door with her magic as she walks in. “I wanted to check on you.”

“At 10:00 PM?” Fire’ said, causing Twilight to slightly blush.

“Yeah.” Twilight said as she walks toward the window and looks at the stars. “I ... have a confession.” Twilight said as Fire’ walks over to her.

“What is it?”

“I ... I’m not sure where to start.” Twilight began to say. “When ... when you had to fight Deker, I was losing my mind that I might never see you agin. And when Mcallen nearly killed you, I just wanted you to stay out of that fight, but you didn't. Over the last few months, I realized that I ... I...”

“Twilight, what are you trying to say?” Fire’ interrupted, knowing that Twilight needs to get something off her chest.

“I ... I love you.” Twilight said with her face as red as a tomato, along with Fire's. “I loved you ever since we first meet, Fire.’” Twilight said as Fire’ leans a bit closer. “When I first saw you, I actually wanted to be with you, to love you. I never expected you to be an Avatar. I’m sorry if this seems to be a bit...” But before Twilight could finish, Fire’ moves her head and kisses her. At first, Twilight is completely shocked, but she closes her eyes as she kisses back, raising one of her legs. They kissed for what felt like hours before they broke apart. “Was that just to shut me up?”

“Not entirely.” Fire’ said as he nuzzles Twilight. “I love you to.” Fire’ said. This time, Twilight leans in and kisses him. The two then make their way to the bed and turn off the lights as they begins to roll around on the bed.

Chapter 13, The Puppetmaster

The Elements of Nature
Book 3: 气 (Air)
Chapter 13, The Puppetmaster

The next morning, Spike is cleaning up the Library where Twilight is currently staying. He is about to put up a really old book when Shining and Cadence walk in. “Twilight, it’s almost time to go!” Cadence called out.

“Ugh, Twilight isn't here right now.” Spike said as he slides down the ladder.

“Oh, then where is she?” Shining asked.

“She said something about going to check on Fire’ last night. She didn't come back thou.” Spike answered. Shining and Cadence than laugh. “What so funny?”

“Lets just say, she and Fire’ had some fun last night.” Shining said as he and Cadence leave a very confused Spike.

==================================================================

At Fire’ room’s door, Zuko is knocking on it. “Hey, Fire’! We need to get to the Fire Nation soon!” Zuko said. The door then opens and Firebrand walks out, but Zuko sees that Fire’s and is a total mess. He then sees Twilight asleep on his bed. “It finally happened, huh?”

“Yeah, it did.” Fire’ answered.

“Well, you better wake up your girlfriend so we can leave.” Zuko said as he walks down the hall. “Sozin’s Comet is only one week away.”

“Right, infiltration of the Fire Nation.” Fire’ reminded himself. He then walks over to a sleeping Twilight and gradually wakes her up. “Hey, Twilight. Wake up.”

Twilight than slowly opens her eyes and sees Fire’ standing above her. She then smiles. “That was the best night ever.” She said as she gets up and rubs her eye.

“Tell me about it.” Fire’ said with a chuckle.

“I read about when ponies do that, but the books never said it would be so much fun.” Twilight said as she brushes her mane and does the same to Fire’s. “I still can’t believe that actually happened.”

“Yeah.” Fire’ said when Twilight finished. “We should get packed. We are heeding for the Fire Nation today.”

“Oh yeah.” Twilight said. “We’ll meet at the airport.” Twilight said as she leaves. But before she leaves, she gives Fire’ a kiss on the cheek.

After Twilight leaves, Fire’ begins to pack. “Dad, if only you could see me now.”

==================================================================

Later at the airport, most of the group, consisting of Applejack, Rainbow, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle (the three of them on fall break), Shining, Agua and Hielo, Terra, Blitz, Ar, Zuko, Golden Rod and Lunar are waiting for Twilight and Fire.’ Shining’s parents are wishing him luck. Big Mac is helping his little sister look over her bag to make sure she has everything, for the 51st time! Golden Rod is checking to see which fishing rod he should take, and considering he has 10, it’l take a while. Rarity is complaining about not being able to take more than 5 bags when she has 20.

Firebrand then arrives, which Zuko notices. “About time.” Zuko said to Fire.’ “We need to leave now before the sun rises in the Fire Nation, which will be four hours from now.”

“Calm down, hothead.” Blitz said. “We just need to take off when were all here on your war balloon.”

“Yeah, Zuzu. Have some fun while we wait.” Pinkie said as she loads her Party Cannon.

‘Don’t call me Zuzu!” Zuko said as Twilight, Spike and surprisingly, Owlowiscious.

“Good, we all here. Now, can we get going.” An annoyed Rainbow said. The group then get on the war balloon and fly for the Fire Nation.

==================================================================

A few hours later, right before dawn, the group land on Ember Island. “This is Ember Island, huh?” Shining said once the group set up camp near a forest.

“Yeah.” Zuko said. “My family used to come here for vacations.”

“What was it like?” Twilight asked.

“I don’t remember much. I haven’t been here in years.” Zuko said.

“We should lay low for a while till we get to your families cottage.” Rainbow said. “It is on the other side of the island.”

==================================================================

Later that night, the group are sitting around a came fire, with the Pegasi hiding their wings with jackets while the Unicorns hid their horns with hats, and Lunar using both. “I feel like a clown with this purple jacket on.” Rainbow complained about her unnecessarily size leather jacket that Rarity brought.

“Hey, how about we tell scary stories tonight!” Pinkie suggested.

“I’m not so sure.” Fluttershy said.

“Oh, pony up Fluttershy.” Rainbow said to the sacred Pegasus. “How bad can they be?”

“I’ll go first.” Blitz said. “I know a few good ones. One night, a lot like this one...”

==================================================================

“So suddenly, they heard this tap-tap-tap on the side of the car.” Blitz said a few minutes later. “The mare was starting to freak out, and by this time, even the stallion was getting scared.” Blitz said as most of the group look at him and listen with pure fear, Fluttershy especially. “So he turn the car on and stepped on it. When they got back to the mares house, she opened the door and screamed. Because there, hanging from the door handle, was the bloody hook!” Blitz said, causing Twilight to hug Fire’ very tightly. “They say, that this killer’s spirit still wonders the worlds forests, searching for his hook and his next victim. He could be just about anywhere really, maybe even right ... HERE!” Blitz then pulls out his hoof, that now has a hook on it. The group then scream as loud as they can, except for Ar and Lunar.

Blitz then laughs like a mad colt as Rainbow walks up to him. “Blitz, that was so not funny!” Rainbow yelled.

“Oh yes it was, love. I just wish it was all on camera.” Blitz said.

“I’ve heard better.” Zuko said.

“Oh yeah, tell one.” Blitz challenged.

“All right.” Zuko said as he starts his story.

==================================================================

“Deep in this very forest, there lives a mysterious creature called Slenderpony. He’s taller than Princess Celestia herself, and is always seen wearing a black suit. Nopony knows where he came from, what he is, or what dreams of cruelty hide within his skull. Some say that he’s the very heart and soul of the Everfree Forest, and he’s the source of all the evil and darkness inside it. Nopony even knows what his face looks like … because he has no face to begin with.”

==================================================================

“Ah have a question,” said Applejack, completely ruining the mood. “How’s he eat without a face? Isn't yer mouth attached ta there?”

“Shhhh!” Rainbow hushed. “This was just getting good.”

==================================================================

“Anyway, the Slenderpony never needs food, water or air. He only wants. And the only thing he wants … is fear. And he will kill to get it. To achieve this, he swipes an unlucky pony on a dark night, a night just like tonight. He then plays a sick game with you, and the stakes could never be higher, because you’re playing for your life.”

==================================================================

“Wh-what’s the game?” Rarity said while she shivered. “Shuffleboard? Pai Sho? Red-Light-Green-Light?”

==================================================================

“The rules are simple: You wake up deep in the woods with nothing but a flashlight that is low on batteries. It’s always pitch-black, so you have to hope your flashlight doesn’t run out of power, or risk stumbling around in the darkness. There are eight pieces of paper hidden somewhere in the forest, and the goal is to find them.”

==================================================================

“That’s it?” Scootaloo interrupted. “You just have to play a game of scavenger hunt in the dark?”

==================================================================

“It’s not as simple, for Slenderpony is stalking your every move. Eventually, you’re convinced he’s right behind you. But no matter what, you CANNOT turn around to look if he’s there; because that’s the one rule you should never, ever, EVER break. If you look behind you, you lose. If you lose, you die. Nopony’s ever beat Slenderpony at his game, you know why?”

==================================================================

“Why???????????” Demanded the frightened mares and fillies, with Twilight holding onto Fire’ real tight, nearly suffocating him.

==================================================================

“Because when you reach for the very last piece of paper, you feel a cold, heavy breathing down your neck and a pale white hoof is placed on your shoulder with a vice-like grip. You know right then and there that any promise of freedom was a lie, and this was always your destined night to die. He leans over to whisper the very last words that you’ll ever hear in this life in a voice that feels that is coming from the very darkest part of your very soul, yet resonates like an entire legion of monsters howling at the moon: ‘Do you know why little foals are afraid of the dark?’ Your blood turns to ice as you lose the ability to control you muscles, and every instinct is telling you turn around and look. You suck up every ounce of courage and-LOOK BEHIND YOU, GUYS, IT’S HIM!!! IT’S REALLY HIM!!! HE’S GONNA KILL US ALL!!!!!”

==================================================================

The mares and fillies listeners whipped their heads around, expecting to see Slenderpony in all his infamous horror. What they got to both their relief and disappointment was nothing but a dead tree. “That wasn’t funny, Zuko!” Twilight said, her cheeks getting hot. Zuko, however, was rolling on the ground, laughing out loud, along with Golden Rod and Hielo.

“Hahahaha, oh, but it was!” Zuko said, wiping a tear from his eye. “You should have seen the looks on your faces! Hahaha!” Spike then chuckles a little.

“My turn!” Pinkie said, ecstatic. “And its a good one.”

==================================================================

“That’s just preposterous!” Rarity exclaimed when Pinkie finished her story. “How’s an eldritch abomination that just brushes ponies' manes supposed to be terrifying?”

“It just doesn’t just brush your mane, silly filly.” Pinkie pointed out.

“Right,” Applejack sarcastically said. “He also rubs your tummy, too! Oh, the humility!”

“My turn.” Hielo said.

==================================================================

“Suddenly, they heard something down the hall in the dark. Oooh ... It came into the torchlight ... and they knew the blade of Wing-Fun was haunted!” Hielo said as he draws out his sword, stands up and points it toward the fire and yells dramatically. “Ooh-aaah!”

The entire group is unamused. “I think I like Pinkies ‘The Legend of the Brony’ better.” An unimpressed Fire’ said.

“Pegasus City slumber parties must stink.” Terra remarked.

“No, wait!” Agua said as Hielo sat down. “I've got one! And this is a true Pegasus City story.”

“Is this one of those ‘a friend of my cousin knew some guy that this happened to’ stories?” Hielo asked.

“No, it happened to my Mom.” Agua said. “One winter when Mom was a filly, a snowstorm buried the whole village she used to live in for weeks. A month later, Mom noticed she hadn't seen her friend Nina since the storm. So Mom and some others went to check on Nina's family. When they got there, no one was home. Just a fire flickering in the fireplace. While the stallions went out to search, Mom stayed in the house. When she was alone, she heard a voice.” Agua then says the next part in a scary voice. “‘It's so cold and I can't get warm!’ Mom turned and saw Nina standing by the fire. She was blue like she was frozen. Mom ran outside for help, but when everyone came back, Nina was gone.”

The entire group, except Zuko, Ar, Terra, Lunar and Agua, are trembling in fear. Hielo then comes out of his hiding place, which is just being behind a gnarled tree stump. “Where'd she go?” Fluttershy nervously asked.

“No one knows.” Agua answered. “Nina's house stands empty to this day, but sometimes, ponies see smoke coming up from the chimney, like little Nina is still trying to get warm.”

Suddenly, Terra, who was lying on her back, straightens up and places her hoofs on the ground. “Wait! Guys, did you hear that?” She asked, with most of the group clutching each other tightly, too stiff to move, with Terra standing alertly. “I hear ponies under the mountain. And they're screaming.”

“Pft! Nice try, Terra.” Hielo said, assuming Terra is joking.

“No, I'm serious. I hear something.” Terra defended.

“You're probably just jumpy from the ghost stories...” Agua began to say.

“It just, stopped.” Terra interrupted.

“All right, now I'm getting scared.” Spike said as he hugs Rarity tightly.

“Hello, children.” A female voice from behind the group said, causing everyone, except Ar and Lunar, to scream in terror upon hearing the strange mares's voice and scrambles from the ground. An elderly mare, around Granny Smith’s age, emerges from the shadows. She has a light blue coat and a white mane. Her cutie mark is partly covers due to her wearing an old rain jacket, it’s a water drop. She also has blue eyes, unlike the normal amber eyes of Fire Nation citizens “Sorry to frighten you. My name is Hama. You children shouldn't be out in the forest by yourselves at night. I have an inn nearby. Why don't you come back there for some spiced tea and warm beds?”

“Yes, please.” Hielo sheepishly said. Hama then smiles and begins walking away.

==================================================================

Later at a nearby village, the local inn is lying on top of a small hill. Inside the building, Hama is pouring tea for the group. She then takes it to the group, who are sitting at a table. “Thanks for letting us stay here tonight. You have a lovely inn.” Rarity said.

Hama then sets the teapot down. “Aren't you sweet?’ She then walks over to her seat and sits down. “You know you should be careful. Ponies have disappeared in those woods you were camping in.”

“What do you mean ‘disappearing’?” Twilight asked.

Hama then sets her teacup down after having a sip. “When the moon turns full, ponies walk in and they don't come out.” Hama then stands up and holds up her teapot, cheerfully smiling. “Who wants more tea?” The group just look at her, completely silent. “Don't worry, you'll all be completely safe here.” She then clasps her hands together and smiles. “Why don't I show you to your rooms and you can get a good night's rest?”

==================================================================

Later in Rainbow, Scootaloo, Rarity, Sweetie Belle, Applejack and Apple Bloom’s room, they are lying in their beds, trying to sleep. They then hear a creaking noise coming from outside, frightening them. Apple Bloom then tightly hugs Applejack. “Applejack ... this place creeps me out.”

“Ah know, Apple Bloom, dawgone it. This hyar place is creepy!” Applejack said as she lays back down.

“Tell me about it. I don't know if I'm gonna be able to fall asleep!” Rainbow said. Then, exactly ten-seconds later, she falls asleep.

==================================================================

The next morning, Rainbow, Scootaloo, Rarity, Sweetie Belle, Applejack and Apple Bloom are all fast asleep. Rainbow is half falling off of her bed, still fast asleep. As they are sleeping peacefully, a shadow comes over Apple Bloom, who slowly awakens. “Wakey, wakey!” Hama said, waking the others. “Time to go shopping!” At this, Rarity smiles as Agua walks in with a smile.

==================================================================

Later, the group are with Hama in the local market place. The Unicorns and Pegasi are still in disguise, along with Zuko, who is wearing Fire’s hooded cloak so he can hide his scarred face. Hama has just finished her purchase as a friendly old stallion smiles and waves to her as she walks away. “That Mr. Yao seems to have a thing for you.” Rarity said to Hama. “Maybe we should go back and see if he'll give us some free moonflowers?”

“You would have me use my feminine charms to take advantage of that poor man?” Hama seriously said to her. “I think you and I are going to get along swimmingly!” She cheerfully said. Rarity then smiles at the remark.

“You won't have any ash bananas till next week?” A villager asked a shop owner, catching Fire,’s, Terra’s, Twilight’s, Shining’s, Rainbow’s, Lunar’s, and Hielo’s attention.

“Well, I have to send the boy to the other end of Ember Island to get them, and it's a two-day trip.” The shop owner said.

“Oh, right. Tomorrow's the full moon.”

“Exactly. I can't lose another delivery boy in the woods.” The shop owner said in a lower voice.

“Ponies disappearing in the woods, weird stuff happening during full moons? This just reeks of Spirit World shenanigans.” Hielo said.

“I bet if we take a little walk around town, we'll find out what these ponies did to the environment to make the spirits mad.” Fire’ said.

“And then you can sew up this little mystery lickety-split, Avatar style!” Rainbow said.

“Helping ponies ... that's what we do.” Terra proudly said.

The 5 of them then catch up with the others. “Why don't you take all those things back to the inn? I just have to run a couple more errands. I'll be back in a little while.” Hama said.

“This is a mysterious little town you have here.” Hielo said.

“Mysterious town for mysterious children.” Hama ominously said. She then smiles creepily and saunters away, leaving Hielo feeling suspicious.

==================================================================

Later a Hama's inn, the gang is unpacking the groceries. Hielo walks over to a counter and sets his basket down. “That Hama seems a little strange. Like she knows something, or she's hiding something.”

“That's ridiculous.” Agua said as she unpacks a bag. “She's a nice mare who took us in and gave us a place to stay.” She then picks up a cabbage. “She kinda reminds me of my Gran-Gran.”

“But what did she mean by that comment, ‘mysterious children’?” Hielo said to his girlfriend.

“Gee, I don't know.” Agua said. “Maybe because she found 19 strange ponies camping in the woods at night? Isn't that a little mysterious?”

“Why does she keep calling us children anyway?” Rainbow asked as she eats an apple.

“Maybe because were really young compared to her.” Agua said

“I'm gonna take a look around.” Hielo said as he gets up and walks away and goes up a flight of wooden stairs.

Agua then appears along with the others at the bottom of the stairwell. “Hielo! Hielo, what are you doing?” She said as Hielo peers around the inn. “You can't just snoop around somepony's house.”

“It'll be fine.” Hielo replied.

“She could be home any minute.” Zuko said as Hielo looks into a room.

“Hielo, you're gonna get us all in trouble and this is just plain rude!” Agua said as she walks down hallway with the rest of the team.

“I'm not finished yet.” Hielo said as he tugs at a cupboard. “Come on...” He grunted as he tries to pull it free. The cupboard suddenly opens, revealing several wooden puppets stowed inside. The dolls fall forward, held together only by their strings. Everyone gasps at this.

“Okay, that's pretty creepy.” Spike said as Owlowiscious does a ‘Hoo.’

“So she's got a hobby. There's nothing weird about that.” Agua said as she closes the cupboard. “Hielo, you've looked enough. Hama will be back soon.” She angrily said as Hielo goes up a flight of stairs into an attic-like room.

“Just an ordinary puppet-loving innkeeper, huh? Well, then why does she have a locked door up here?” Hielo said as he tries to open the attic door.

“Probably to keep ponies like you from snooping through her stuff!” An annoyed Agua said.

“We'll see.” Hielo said as he looks through the keyhole into the room. Through the keyhole, he sees a small room, with a chest lying on the ground in the middle. “It's empty, except for a little chest.”

“Maybe it's treasure!” Terra said, causing Hielo to grow excited, his eyes growing wide, and uses his sword to pick the lock.

“Hielo, what are you doing? You're breaking into a private room!” Lunar said as Hielo opens the door.

“I have to see what's in there.” Hielo as he goes in.

“We shouldn't be doing this.” Twilight said as Hielo picks up the chest.

“Maybe there's a key...”

“Ooh! Hand it over!” Terra interrupted Hielo. She then takes the chest, removes a bracelet she bought at the market from her leg and earthbends it into the shape of a small key, which she sticks into the keyhole of the chest.

“Come on, come on!” Rainbow eagerly said.

“This isn't as easy as it looks!” An annoyed Terra said as Agua, Rarity, Twilight and Fire’ peer nervously over her shoulder.

“Guys, I don't know about this...” Apple Bloom nervously said.

“This is crazy! I'm leaving!” Agua said.

“Suit yourself! Do it, Terra!” Rainbow said as Agua turns to leave. At that moment, Terra has successfully opened the chest. All 15 eagerly surround the box, anticipating what they will find inside.

“I'll tell you what's in the box.” Hama said, scaring the group to the point of screaming, except Terra, Ar and Lunar. They turn sharply to find Hama standing in the doorway.

“Stop doing that!” Zuko yelled as Hielo guiltily hands her the box. Hama lifts the lid and reaches her hoof inside. She then takes out a blue Whale-Tooth comb in her hoof, all while smiling.

“An old comb?” A surprised Hielo said.

“It's my greatest treasure.” Hama said as she looks at her old comb and takes off her old rain jacket, showing wings, stunning the group. “It's the last thing I own from growing up in Pegasus City.” Agua and Hielo then stare at her in astonishment.

“Your ... from Pegasus City.” A stunned Agua said.

“Just like you.” Hama said as she sets down her comb.

“How did you know?” Agua asked.

“I heard you talking around your campfire.” Hama answered.

“But why didn't you just tell us?” Hielo asked.

“I wanted to surprise you!” Hama answered. “I bought all this food today so I could fix you a big Pegasus City dinner. Of course, I can't get all the ingredients I need here, but ocean kumquats are a lot like sea prunes if you stew them long enough.”

Fire’ the sticks his tongue out in disgust. “Great...”

“I knew I felt a bond with you right away.” Agua said.

“And I knew you were keeping a secret, so I guess we're both right.” Hielo said. He then grimaces as Agua hits him in the arm. “But I'm sorry we were sneaking around.”

“Apology accepted.” Hama said as she turns to the side and motions with her hand. “How, let's get cooking!”

“Sweet!” Golden Rod said as he walks up to her, removing his hat. “I’ve been working on some new fish recipes, and who's a better taste tester then someone who used to live off of the sea.”

==================================================================

Later that night, at Hama's kitchen table, she sets down a bowl of soup as the team are sitting around the table. Hielo is chewing on a pice of seal jerky as Hama takes her seat at the head of the table. “I'd steer clear of the sea prunes.” Fire’ whispered to Twilight.

“I thought they were ocean kumquats.” Twilight said.

“Close enough.” Fire’ said as Hama stands up.

“Who wants five-flavors soup?” She asked. All of the group then raise one hoof in response. Hama then situates her hoofs over the bowl and suddenly uses waterbending to summon a globule of soup and fill each of their bowls. The team is looking at this spectacle in astonishment as 15 streams of soup land gracefully into each of their bowls.

“You're a waterbender!” A delighted Agua said. “I've never met another waterbender from our city!”

“That's because the Fire Nation wiped them all out. I was the last one...” Hama sadly said.

“So how did you end up out here?” Shining asked.

“I was stolen from my home.” Hama grimly answered.

==================================================================

Hama then has a flashback to a much younger version of herself peacefully sauntering through her village. “It was over sixty years ago when the raids started.” She approaches her friend, Kanna, before they notice ashen snow falling from the sky. The two race to the shores, where five Fire Nation are rapidly approaching the tribe. Five fireballs are launched from trebuchets and strike the village. Fire Nation soldiers swarm the area, battling the pegasi, who desperately attempt to fend them off. “They came again and again, each time rounding up more of our pegasi who know how to control the weather and taking them captive.”

“We did our best to hold them off, but our numbers dwindled as the raids continued.” She remembers when she was the only one left, surrounded by Fire Nation soldiers. “Finally, I too was captured.” The younger Hama is then led by Fire Nation soldiers onto one of their naval vessels, having now been captured herself. “I was led away in chains. The last weather team member of our village.” Hama then looks out onto her village's members, including her friend, Kanna, in tears as the bow creaks upward.

==================================================================

Now in present time, Agua is seen walking over to Hama and placing her arms around her shoulder comfortingly. “They put us in terrible prisons here in the Fire Nation. I was the only one who managed to escape.”

“How did you get away?” Hielo asked.

“And why did you stay in the Fire Nation?” Zuko asked, still hiding his scar.

“I'm sorry. It's too painful to talk about it anymore.” Hama said.

“I know ow you feel. I lost my mother to a Fire Nation disease.” Agua said.

“Oh, you poor thing.” Hama sympathetically said.

“I can't tell you what it means to meet you.” Agua said to Hama. “It's an honor. You're a hero.”

“I never thought I'd meet another waterbender.” Hama said. “I'd like to teach you what I know so you can carry on the tradition when I'm gone.”

“Yes! Yes, of course! To learn about my heritage, it would mean everything to me.” An ecstatic Ague said. She then bows to her newfound friend, who smiles warmly.

==================================================================

The next day, Hama and Agua are strolling on the outskirts of Hama's village. “Growing up at the North Pole, waterbenders are totally at home surrounded by snow and ice and seas. But as you probably noticed on your travels, that isn't the case wherever you go.” Hama said.

“I know! When we’re in deserts, I feel like there’s almost nothing I can do.” Agua said.

“That's why you have to learn to control water wherever it exists.” Hama said when she stops.

“I've even used my own sweat for waterbending.”

“That's very resourceful, Agua.” Hama said with a smile. “You're thinking like a true master. But did you know you could even pull water out of thin air?” In a quick movement of her right arm, Hama uses waterbending to manipulate the water vapor in the air, liquefying it and coating her hoof. “You have got to keep an open mind, Agua.” The water around her hoof freezes, creating ice claws. “There's water in places you never think about.” She then proceeds to fire the small daggers at a nearby tree while Agua looks on in amazement.

==================================================================

Meanwhile, the others are wandering about the landscape surrounding the village, trying to uncover any signs of disruption that would anger the spirits. “This has got to be the nicest natural setting in the Fire Nation.” Twilight said. “I don't see anything that would make a spirit mad around here.”

“Maybe the Moon Spirit just turned mean.” Terra said.

“The Moon Spirit is a gentle, loving stallion. He rules the sky with compassion and ... lunar goodness!” Hielo angrily said, remembering that Agua told him that Sokka is the moon now.

Fire’ then notices a villager walking by. “Excuse me, sir. Can you tell us anything about the spirit that's been stealing people?” Fire’ asked.

“Only one pony ever saw it and lived and that's Old Colt Ding.” The villager answered.

“Where does Old Man Ding live?” Rainbow asked.

==================================================================

In a field of red little lilies, Hama continues to tutor Agua in waterbending. “Wow, these flowers are beautiful.” Agua said as she picks one up.

“They're called fire lilies. They only bloom a few weeks a year, but they're one of my favorite things about living here. And like all plants and all living things, they're filled with water.”

“I met a waterbender who lived in a swamp and could control the vines by bending the water inside.” Agua said when she remembers Huu.

“You can take it even further.” Hama said. In a sharp, swiveling motion, she draws water from dozens of the surrounding fire lilies and slices a nearby rock clean through.

“That was incredible!” Agua then sees the wilted lilies. “It's a shame about the lilies, though.”

“They're just flowers.” Hama reassured. “When you're a waterbender in a strange land, you do what you must to survive. Tonight I'll show you the ultimate technique of waterbending. It can only be done during the full moon, when your bending is at its peak.”

“But isn't that dangerous?” Agua cautiously said. “I thought ponies have disappeared during the full moon.”

“Oh, Agua. Two master waterbenders beneath a full moon?” Hama said as she begins t walk away. “I don't think we have anything to worry about.”

==================================================================

Later that night, Applejack, Rainbow, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, Shining, Hielo, Terra, Blitz, Ar, Zuko, Golden Rod and Lunar are approaching Old Colt Ding, who is boarding his windows. “Old Colt Ding?” Scootaloo asked.

“Huh?” Ding then accidentally hammers his hoof. “Ow, dang blame it! What? Can't you see I'm busy? Got a full moon rising. And why does everyone call me that? I'm not that old!” He then attempts to lift a wooden plank off the ground, but fails to do so and sighs. “Well, I'm young at heart.” Lunar then approaches and helps Ding lift the board. “Not ready to get snapped up by some Moon Monster yet at least.”

“We wanted t'ax yo' about thet.” Applejack said as she nails the board into the window frame using her hoofs, impressing Ding.

“Did you see the spirit that took you?” Ar asked as he gives Ding a glass of water.

“Didn't see no spirit, just felt something come over me like I was possessed.” Ding answered after he drank the whole cup. “Forced me to start walking toward the mountain.” He then points to the mountain. “I tried to fight it, but I couldn't control my own limbs. It just about had me into a cave up there.” He then imitates a walking puppet. “And I looked up at the moon for what I thought would be my last glimpse of light. But then the sun started to rise and I got control of myself again! I just hightailed it away from that mountain as quick as I could!”

“Why would a spirit want to take ponies to a mountain?” Hielo asked.

“Oh no!” Terra said, causing most of the group to assume defensive positions. “I did hear ponies screaming under the mountain. The missing villagers must still be there!” They then all stare at the mountain.

==================================================================

Later, Applejack, Rainbow, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, Shining, Hielo, Terra, Blitz, Ar, Zuko, Golden Rod and Lunar are racing through the dark forest in search of the imprisoned villagers. Terra then feels the ground with her hoof. “I can hear them. They're this way!” The group then proceed to sprint toward the mountain.

==================================================================

Meanwhile, Hama and Agua venture into the moonlit forest. “Can you feel the power the full moon brings?” Hama asked as she inhales deeply through her nose and stretches her wings outward, flexing her limbs which causes her veins to bulge out. “For generations it has blessed waterbenders with its glow, allowing us to do incredible things! I've never felt more alive.”

==================================================================

Later, Applejack, Rainbow, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, Shining, Hielo, Terra, Blitz, Ar, Zuko, Golden Rod and Lunar have arrived at the mountain and are standing before the mouth of the cave. “This is the place.”

“I can't see anything.” Hielo said, only for a light to shine from Twilight’s, Fire’s, and Lunar's horns. “Oh. Well, we still don’t know which way to go.”

“That's why you have me.” Terra said. “Let's go!” The group descend into the dark cave and approach a solid metal door, torches nearby. Using metalbending, Terra breaks it down where the group can make their way through the tunnel, the unicorns lighting their path with magic.

They arrive to see several villagers chained to the walls of the cave. “We're saved!” A prisoner exclaimed as Terra unfastens her bracelet and begins to unlock the prisoners' shackles.

“I didn't know spirits made prisons like this.” Pinkie said. “Who brought you here?”

“It was no spirit.” A female prisoner said.

“It was a witch!”

“A witch? What do you mean?” Twilight asked.

“She seems like a normal old mare, but she controls ponies like some dark puppetmaster!” Te female prisoner said as Terra unlocks her shackles.

“Hama!” Hielo said while gritting.

“Yes, the innkeeper!” One of the prisoners said.

“I knew there was something creepy about her!” Hielo said.

“We have to stop Hama!” Twilight said.

“I'll get these ponies out of here. You go!” Terra said. The rest of the group flee from the scene, while Terra stays behind.

==================================================================

At the forest Hama and Agua are in, an owl hoots and flies away. Hama and Agua are looking towards the moon. “What I'm about to show you, I discovered in that wretched Fire Nation prison.” Hama said while glaring menacingly at the moon.

==================================================================

Hama then has flashback of a younger Hama imprisoned within a cage. She peers through the bars of her cell and looks down mournfully. “The guards were always very careful to keep any water away from us. They correctly assumed that all pegasi are able to control water, which is how were able to control the weather. They piped in dry air and had us suspended away from the ground. Before giving us any water, they would bind our hoofs so we couldn't use our magic. Any sign of trouble was met with cruel retribution.”

==================================================================

“And yet each month, I felt the full moon enriching me with its energy. There had to be something I could do to escape.” Hama said to Agua, who is shock by the cruelties of most Fire Nation prisons.

==================================================================

“Then I realized that where there is life, there is water.” A younger Hama then bends the water inside a rat that had wandered its way into her cage. “The rats that scurried across the floor of my cage were nothing more than skins filled with liquid and I passed years developing the skill that would lead to my escape.” Hama then smiles at her discovery.

==================================================================

“Bloodbending.” Hama ominously said to a scared Agua. “Controlling the water in another body, enforcing your own will over theirs.”

==================================================================

Back to the flashback, a young Hama is controlling a horde of rats using bloodbending. “Once I had mastered the rats, I was ready for the stallions.” One month later, a Fire Nation guard is strolling past the cages when a sudden feeling comes over him. Using bloodbending, Hama forces the guard to grab hold of his keys and unlock her cell, thus marking her escape. “And during the next full moon, I walked free for the first time in decades.” The guard attempts to get up, but Hama quickly forces him back down to the ground. She walks unsteadily away. “My cell unlocked by the very guards assigned to keep me in.

==================================================================

Back to the present day, Hama is looking at a clearly scared Agua. “Once you perfect this technique, you can control anything or ... anyone.” She said sadistically.

“But ... to reach inside someone and control them?” An unsure Agua said. “I don't know if I want that kind of power.”

“The choice is not yours.” Hama said to the Water Avatar. “The power exists. And it's your duty to use the gifts you've been given to win this war. Agua, they tried to wipe us out, our entire culture, your mother!”

“I know.”

“Then you should understand what I'm talking about! We're the last two waterbenders of Pegasus City. We have to fight these people whenever we can, wherever they are, with any means necessary!”

Agua’s eyes then widen in realization. “It's you...” She angrily said. “You're the one who's been making ponies disappear during the full moon!”

“They threw me in prison to rot, along with my brothers and sisters! They deserve the same! You must carry on my work!”

Agua then points to Hama, stretching out her left hoof. “I won't! I won't use bloodbending and I won't allow you to keep terrorizing this town!” Agua’s hoof suddenly twists to one side. She tries desperately to stop it, but fails to do so.

Hama is now using bloodbending to subdue to her. “You should've learned the technique before you turned against me!” She then forces Agua into a strained position. “It's impossible to fight your way out of my grip! I control every muscle, every vein in your body!” With swift motions of her hoofs and wings, Hama uses bloodbending to twist Agua around and throw her from side to side. She then positions Agua directly before her and uses a downward motion of her hand to force her into a submissive state.

“Stop! Please...” Agua tearfully said. Hama just laughs cruelly and keeps Agua subdued. Agua’s eyes then flash blue. Several moments pass as the young waterbender begins to break free from Hama's grip. Hama stares in shock as Agua inhales deeply and rises, now free from her grasp. “You're not the only one who draws power from the moon! And I have an ace up my sleeve! I’m the Avatar of Water!” Agua said as she assumes a fighting stance. “My bending is more powerful than yours, Hama. Your technique is useless on me!”

A waterbending duel ensues between the two. Agua pulls a ring of water around her waist and sends the stream of water at Hama, who halts it and sends it back to Agua. In a swift spinning motion, Agua sends the stream toward Hama again, who draws water from nearby trees, deflects the attack and sends a highly pressurized water jet at her. Agua uses her hands to block the attack, disintegrating the water into droplets. Upon seeing Agua's bending prowess, Hama becomes shocked, allowing for her opponent to use waterbending to knock her to the ground. “Aahhh!” Hama shouted as Applejack, Rainbow, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, Shining, Hielo, Blitz, Ar, Zuko, Golden Rod and Lunar arrive.

“We know what you've been doing, Hama!” Lunar said.

“Give up!” Hielo said as he takes on a fighting stance. “You're outnumbered!”

“No!” Hama said as she gets up on her hoofs. “You've outnumbered yourselves.” She begins bloodbending them, who yell in fear, and sends them in Agua's direction. Agua pushes them out of her way and draws water from the ground, sending a stream at Hama, who in turn draws water from a vine and uses a water wheel to deflect the attack.

Fire’ then unwillingly draws his sword. “Agua, look out!” Fire’ yelled as he is forced to walk like a puppet while waving the blade back and forth rapidly. “Stop it leg, stop it!” Agua pulls up a ring of water and pushes Fire’ away.

“This feels weird!” Pinkie said as Agua uses waterbending to freeze her to a nearby tree.

“I'm sorry, Pinkie!”

“It’s okay.” Pinkie said.

Agua then catches sight of Fire,’ still under Hama's power, unwillingly ready to strike her with his sword along with Twilight. She draws water from a vine and freezes his sword and hoof to a tree with Twilight as well. “Don't hurt your friends, Agua!” Hama sinisterly said. “And don't let them hurt each other!”

She then uses bloodbending to force Lunar to charge horn first right at Hielo’s chest, intending on killing him. “No!” A horrified Agua said. Suddenly, Lunar and the other bloodbended victims stop. They look at Hama, who has now stiffened, then at Agua, who has a look of shock then dismay across her face as she regretfully uses bloodbending to subdue her. The imprisoned villagers and Terra then arrive the scene. Moments later, the elderly waterbender is arrested, cuffs placed around her ankles and wings.

“You're going to be locked away forever.” One of the prisoners said.

“My work is done.” Hama said as she looks at Agua. “Congratulations, Water Avatar Agua of Pegasus City. You're a bloodbender.” At this, Agua, who is clearly distressed, breaks down in tears. Hama then laughs evilly as she is dragged away by the villagers as the group try to comfort Agua.

Chapter 14, Sozin's Comet Part 1: The Phoenix King

The Elements of Nature
Book 3: 气 (Air)
Chapter 14, Sozin's Comet Part 1: The Phoenix King

It took the group one day to reach Ozia's old beach house. At first, the place was, quiet literally, a dumped, but after a little Rarity makeover, it was as good as new. They are soon accompanied by Celestia and Luna. That night, Twilight is in the bathroom with a small device. It says, “Test results: positive” Twilight then gets a really big smile at this.

==================================================================

The next day, Fire’ is practicing his firebending, with Zuko watching him like a hawk. “More ferocious!” Zuko said after a Fire’ does a fire punch. “Imagine striking through your opponent's heart!”

“I'm trying.” An irritated Firebrand said to Zuko.

The little argument catches most of the group's attention. “Now let me hear you roar like a tiger!” Firebrand then gives a light roar as fire bursts come out of his hoofs and mouth. “That sounded pathetic! I said roar!” Fire’ then roars even louder, as even larger fire bursts come out of his hands and mouth. Spike then runs and hides behind Zuko's leg in fear as Zuko nods approvingly.

Twilight then walks up with two watermelons. “Who wants a nice cool glass of watermelon juice?”

Fire’ then brightens up at this. “I do!” He said as he takes a glass.

But Zuko takes the glass. “Hey! You're lesson's not over yet! No time for a drink!”

“Come on, Zuko.” Agua said to the Fire Prince. “Just take a break. What's the big deal?”

“Fine!” Zuko said as Fire’ happily takes the watermelon. “If you want to lounge around like a bunch of sloths all day, then go ahead!” Zuko then bitterly walks away.

“Maybe Zuko's right.” Hielo said. “Sitting around the house has made us pretty lazy. But I know just the thing to change all that: Beach party!”

They all then head down to the beach. Rainbow and Applejack dive into the water, and when they come up, seaweed are on their heads. Twilight conjures up surfboard and surfs on the water. Agua watching Hielo grab some seaweed and bring it to an area. He then takes two buckets and fills them with water. Fire’ sticks the last piece of wood on a life-sized sand sculpture of a snake dragon, finishing the teeth last. “Check out my dragon sculptor.” Fire’ said as Terra walks over.

“Not bad, Flame Head, but I've been working on a new technique called sandbending.” Terra said as she cracks her ankles. “You're gonna love this.” She then uses sandbending to create a sand replica of the city of Ba Sing Se. Fire’ peers down and marvels at the replica's details.

“Whoa! Wow, you've even made a little King Kuei and Bosco.” An impressed Sweetie Belle said as she and the other crusaders walk up to it.

The five then look at a hard working Hielo. “Try and top that, Hielo.” Terra said as Hielo does the finishing touches.

Hielo then shows them his sculpture, a grotesque looking mound with seaweed for hair, a starfish for a nose, and rocks and shells for eyes and mouth. “Ta da!”

“Is that a blubbering blob monster?” Scootaloo asked the warrior Pegasus.

“No, it's Agua!” Hielo defensively said. The three fillies and Fire’ just stare at him with shocked until they and Terra laugh hysterically.

“Agua, we'll all understand if you break up with him over this.” Terra said to Agua, who is sitting on a beach towel with Rarity.

“I think it's sweet.” Agua said. She then gets a kiss from Hielo.

“But it doesn't even look like-” Fire’ began to say, until he is cut off by fire blast that destroys the sculpture. Zuko is the source of the blast and he chases after Fire,’ blasting at him with firebending. Fire’ jumps over the sand replica of Ba Sing Se as Zuko destroys it. Fire’ then hides behind his dragon sand sculpture. “What are you doing?”

“Teaching you a lesson!” Zuko answered as he destroys Fire's dragon sculpture with a fire blast. Fire’ jumps back and runs up to the house, with Zuko after him, continually firing blasts at him. Twilight and the others come back to shore and see the destruction.

“What happened?” Shining asked.

“Zuko's gone crazy!” Hielo said as he rubs his sculpture. “I made a sand sculpture of Agua and he destroyed it!” He then pauses for a moment. “Oh, and he's attacking Fire.’”

Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, Shining, Terra, Blitz, Ar, Golden Rod, Celestia, Luna, Lunar, and Agua then go after them, the latter dragging Agua. Zuko is still chasing Fire’ onto a tree as Zuko sends another fire blast at him, forcing him to jump onto the roof of the beach house. Zuko then climbs onto the roof. “Get a grip before I blast you off this roof!” Fire’ said to Zuko.

“Go ahead and do it!” Zuko then blasts fire at Fire’ again, who slides down the roof and into the house. He hides behind a dresser. Zuko breaks the roof with firebending and drops into the room. He takes a fighting stance and looks around for Fire,’ who kicks the dresser at him, but Zuko destroys it. Fire’ runs into the hall. Zuko then augments fire into the hallway. Fire’ then clears his part of the hallway from the fire using his firebending. “Enough!” Fire’ yelled as he fires a magic laser at Zuko, sending him out of the house. Everyone then approaches Zuko outside.

“What's wrong with you? You could have hurt Firebrand!” Twilight yelled.

“‘What's wrong with me?’” Zuko asked. “What's wrong with all of you!? How can you all sit around having beach parties when Sozin's Comet is only three days away?!” The group, especially Pinkie Pie due to Zuko saying something anti-party, just stare at him. “Why are you all looking at me like I'm crazy?”

“About Sozin's Comet, we were actually gonna wait to fight the Fire Lord until after it came, mate.” Blitz said.

“After?” A shocked Zuko said.

“Were not completely ready yet.” Agua said. “We still have’t gotten complete control over our bending.”

“So, you all knew the Avatars were going to wait?” Zuko asked the others.

“Honestly, if the Avatars try to fight the Fire Lord now, they're going to lose. No offense.” Hielo said.

“And besides, I was the one who suggested we wait.” Celestia said. “The whole point of fighting the Fire Lord before the Comet was to stop the Fire Nation from winning the War, but they pretty much won the War when they took Ba Sing Se. Things can't get any worse.”

“I’m sorry, Princess. But you're wrong.” Zuko said as he turns away from them. “It's about to get worse than you can even imagine.”

==================================================================

Zuko then flashes back to one day before he betrayed his father. Servants are help Zuko get dressed on his way to a meeting. Once done, they stay behind and bow to him as he walks on. “The day before I betrayed him, my father asked me to attend an important war meeting. It was what I dreamed about for so many years. My father had finally accepted me back.”

Zuko then walks into the war room and goes by his father's side. “Welcome, Prince Zuko. We waited for you.” Ozia said as Zuko sits down beside him. Azula is on the other side. “General Shin, your report.”

“Thank you, sire.” General Shin said as he stands up. He then walks up to the opposite side of Ozia across the table, which has a map of the world on it. “Ba Sing Se is still under our control. However, rebellions have prevented us from achieving total victory in Geo Firma.”

“What is your recommendation?” Ozia asked the general.

“Our army is spread too thin, we should transfer more domestic forces into Geo Firma.” The general said.

Ozia then thinks for a moment, then remembers that his son has been among the ponies of Geo Firma before. “Prince Zuko, you've been among the Geo Firma commoners. Do you think that adding more troops will stop these rebellions?”

“The people of Geo Firma are proud and strong. They can endure anything, as long as they have hope.” Zuko answered.

“Yes, you're right.” Ozia said to him. “We need to destroy their hope.”

“Well, that's not exactly what I-” Zuko began, only to be cut off by Azula.

“I think you should take their precious hope and the rest of their land and burn it all to the ground.” Azula said to her father.

“Yes ... Yes you're right, Azula.” Ozia said as he stands up and walks to the world map. “Sozin's Comet is almost upon us, and on that day, it will endow all Earth Ponies with the power to create fire from our own Chi. No one, not even Celestia and Luna, will stand a chance against us.”

“What are you suggesting, sire?” One of the generals asked.

“When the comet last came, my ancestor, Fire Lord Sozin, used it and dealt a deadly first strike against the world. Now, I will use its power to end Geo Firma, Equestria, the USA, and all our other enemies ... permanently.” Ozia said as he walks to the center of the map, with Zuko staring at him, astonished. “From our airships, we will reign fire over their lands, a fire that will destroy everything; and out of the ashes, a new world will be born, a world in which all the lands are Fire Nation and I am the supreme ruler of everything!” The war generals then applaud for Ozia and his plans, mostly out of fear.

“I wanted to speak out against this horrifying plan, but I'm ashamed to say I didn't.”

==================================================================

Back in the present, the group are looking at a sitting Zuko, completely horrified. “My whole life, I struggled to gain my father's love and acceptance, but once I had it, I realized I'd lost myself getting there. I'd forgotten who I was.” Zuko finished.

Twilight then gets on her knees. “I can't believe this.”

“I always knew the Fire Lord was a bad guy, but his plan is just pure evil.” Rainbow said.

“What are we gonna do?” Fire’ asked.

“I know you're scared, and I know you're not ready to save the world, but if you six don't defeat the Fire Lord before the comet comes, there won't be a world to save anymore.” Zuko said to Fire,’ Agua, Terra, Blitz, Ar and Golden Rod as he gets up.

“Why didn't you tell us about your dad's crazy plan sooner?!” Blitz asked as Fire’ walks away.

“I didn't think I had to.” Zuko defended. “I assumed you were still going to fight him before the comet. No one told me you all decided to wait.”

“This is bad.” Fire’ said as he sinks down to the ground. “This is really, really bad.”

“Fire,’ you don’t have to do this alone.” Twilight said as she sits down next to him along with Golden Rod.

“Thats right, buddy.” GR said to his old friend. “If we all fight the Fire Lord together, we got a shot at taking him down.”

“Fighting the Fire Lord is going to be the hardest thing we've ever done together, but I wouldn't want to do it any other way.” Agua said as the team get into a group hug, except Zuko. “Get over here Zuko. Being part of the group also means being part of group hugs.” With a resigned look on his face, Zuko joins the hug.

==================================================================

Later at the beach house courtyard, Zuko is about to teach Fire’ and Golden Rod one very important lesson. Under the pavilion, Agua and Twilight are watching with the CMC at their side. “There's one technique you need to know before facing my father - how to redirect lightning.” This causes Fire’ to smile as Zuko shows them how the energy should flow through the body. “If you let the energy in your own body flow, the lightning will follow it. You turn your opponents' energy against them.”

“Hey, wait, thats like waterbending.” Agua said as Golden Rod and Fire’ join Zuko.

“Exactly.” Zuko said to her. “My uncle invented this technique himself by studying waterbending scrolls.”

“So, how many times have you redirected lightning?” Scootaloo asked.

“Only once, against my father.” Zuko answered the orang filly.

“What did it feel like?” Fire’ asked, causing Zuko to stop practicing the lightning redirection form.

“Exhilarating...” Zuko said as he flashes back to the moment for a few seconds, “but terrifying. You feel so powerful holding that much energy in your body, but you know if you make the wrong move, it's over.”

Fire’ then nervously chuckles. “Well, not over over. I mean there's always Agua and a little Spirit Water action, am I right?”

“Actually, I used it all up after Azula shot you.” Agua sad, causing a disappointed Fire’ to say ‘Oh.’

“You'll have to take the Fire Lord's life before he takes yours.” Zuko said to the two true Avatars.

“Yeah, I'll just do that.” Fire’ said.

==================================================================

Later at a rocky cliff side, Hielo places a watermelon with a carved face on a draped mannequin as the others walk up. “Gather round, Team Avatar.” He said to the team. “In order to take out the Fire Lord - or in this case, the Melon Lord - our timing has to be perfect.” He then kneels down on the ground and draws a line heading toward the Melon Lord symbol. “First, Luna, Lunar, Shining, Spitfire, Soarin’ and I will draw his fire. Then, Agua and Zuko along with the others, except Terra, charge in with some magical liquidy hot offense, and while the Melon Lord is distracted, Fire’ swoops in - and bam! - he delivers the final blow.” Hielo said, all while drawing different lines.

“Uh ... what about me?” Terra asked.

“For now, you're the Melon Lord's forces.” Hielo answered.

“So I get to chuck flaming rocks at all of you?” An excited Terra said.

“Whatever makes the training feel more realistic.”

“Sweetness.” Terra said as she plans on how to be the Melon Lord. A few minutes later, Terra is surrounded by boulders coated in grease with small bowls of fire set out in front of each boulder. “Mwah-ha-ha-ha!” She evilly laugh as most of the group and look at Fire.’ Hielo signals to the others to start moving. Hielo Luna, Lunar, Shining, Spitfire and Soarin' run toward the Melon Lord, but become confronted by stone Fire Nation soldiers, who suddenly rise out of the ground. Hielo cuts one stone soldier in half and as the others uses their magic to blow them up. They keep running, but a large burning rock boulder falls out of the sky, blocking the camera's view of them. Shining jumps over the boulder as Hielo finds himself fallen down just a few inches away from the flaming boulder and jumps up.

“Watch it, Terra!” Hielo yelled.

“I am not Terra. I am Melon Lord! Mwah-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha!” Terra said as she lights a second boulder on fire and sends it through the air at Zuko, Twilight, and Agua. They run around the boulder and become surrounded by a circle of stone Fire Nation soldiers, which they quickly destroy.

“Now, Fire’!” Twilight yelled as Fire’ jumps, preparing to strike the Melon Lord with his sword. Fire’ looks at the Melon Lord and changes expressions from anger to uncertainty. When he lands, Fire’ stops his attack just before killing the Melon Lord and backs away.

“What are you waiting for?” Zuko asked. “Take him out!”

“I can't.” Fire’ said as he shakes his head.

“What's wrong with you?” Hielo asked as he walks up to Fire.’ “If this was the real deal, you'd be shot full of lightning from his gun right now.”

“I'm sorry, but it just didn't feel right.” Fire’ said as he puts away his sword. “I didn't feel like myself.” Hielo then takes Fire’s sword. Fire’ wincing as he hears squashing sounds.

“There, that's how it's done.” Hielo said as a pice of the Melon Lord’s head falls to the ground. Fire’ looks at this completely horrified.

==================================================================

Later that night, Team Avatar shares a meal outside, with Fire’ facing away from the rest of the group. “I have a surprise for everyone!” Rainbow said as she walks up to them, carrying a scroll.

“I knew it! You did have a secret thing with Blitz!” Terra said, with most of the group looking at her strangely, and Blitz’s face as red as a tomato.

“Uh, no.” Rainbow said as the group start eating again. “I was looking for cooking pots in the attic, and I found this!” Rainbow than shoes them the scroll, which has a picture of a baby Earth Pony playing on the beach. The baby has a strange resemblance to ... “Look at baby Zuko. Isn't he cute?” Everyone except Zuko then laughs. “Oh, lighten up. I'm just teasing.” Rainbow said to Zuko.

“That's not me.” Zuko said to them. “It's my father.” Rainbow then rolls up the scroll and throws it away.

“But he looks so sweet and innocent.” Agua pointed out.

“Well, that sweet little kid grew up to be a monster, and the worst father in the history of fathers.” Zuko pointed out.

“But he's still a pony.” Fire’ said, still facing away from the group.

“You're going to defend him?” Zuko asked.

“No, I agree with you.” Fire’ said as he stands up. “Fire Lord Ozia is a horrible pony, and the world would probably be better off without him, but there's got to be another way.”

“Like what?” Zuko asked.

“I don't know.” Fire’ said.

“Maybe we can make some big pots of glue, and then Agua can use gluebending to stick his arms and legs together so he can't use magic anymore.” Sweetie said.

“Yeah, then you can show him his baby pictures, and all those happy memories will make him good again.” Zuko sarcastically said as Hielo and Agua laugh a little.

“Do you really think that would work?” Sweetie asked.

“No!” Zuko bluntly said as Fire’ walks around back and forth.

“This goes against everything I learned from my dad.” Fire’ said when he finally stops, his back turned from the group. “I can't just go around wiping out ponies I don't like.”

“Sure you can. You're one of the Avatars.” Rainbow said. “If it's in the name of keeping balance, I'm pretty sure the universe will forgive you.”

“This isn't a joke, Rainbow!” Fire’ yelled as he turns around, turning into a small inferno due to losing his temper, scaring half the group to death, especially Fluttershy. “None of you understand the position I'm in.”

“Fire,’ we do understand. It's just...” Twilight began to say.

“Just what, Twilight? What?!” Fire’ interrupted, still an inferno.

“We're trying to help!” Twilight said to her lover.

“Then, when you figure out a way for me to beat the Fire Lord without taking his life, I'd love to hear it!” Fire’ said as he storms off to his room in the beach house as he returns to normal.

“Fire,’ don't walk away from this.” Twilight said. She tries to go after him, but Zuko stops her.

“Let him go.” Zuko said to Twilight. “He needs time to cool off and sort it out by himself.”

==================================================================

In Fire’s room, he’s looking at the ocean, trying to think of a way to stop the Fire Lord without taking his life. Owlowiscious then flies and lands in front of him. “Hey Owlowiscious. I don't suppose you know what I should do.”

“Hoo.”

“I didn't think so.” Fire’ said. Fire’ then goes to sleep. Later, as the Unicorn and Owl are asleep, then Owlowiscious hears something and looks to the ocean, and sees an island that wasn't there before.

“Na Mo A Mi Tuo Fo.” Is what Owlowiscious heard coming from the island. Fire’ then wakes up all of a sudden to the chanting, gets the Elements of Harmony and Nature, places them in a bag, and walks toward the mysterious island, barely awake with Owlowiscious following him. Fire’ then starts swimming when he reaches the water.

==================================================================

The next morning, the island is gone. In the court-yard, the group are getting ready to leave when... “I got it!” Golden Rod said as he runs up to the group, with the Black Box. “Gold is good, but right now black is even better.”

“You finished the Black Box?” Celestia asked.

“I sure did, Bonita.” GR said as he uses his magic to start the Black Box. “Get me a map.” Rainbow then gets a map of the world and shows it to Golden Rod. The Black Box then makes a magic line and it touches a spot in the middle of the pacific ocean. “Thats where the last two elements are at.”

“Cool.” Rainbow said.

“We should leave then.” Hielo said. “Every thing is already packed.”

“Not everything.” Terra said, getting the group's attention. “Where's Fire’?” The team then run to the beach house as they look for Fire.’

“Fire’? Fire’!” Zuko called out.

“Come on, lazy bones, let's go.” Terra said Agua and Twilight run to check one side of the beach house. The rest of the group run to check the other side. Zuko opens a door, but cannot find Fire.’ Terra shrugs to show Zuko she hasn't found him either. Zuko checks the porch, scratching his head. He then spots Fire's sword as Twilight and Agua follow him.

“He left his sword.” Twilight said as she picks it up. “That's so strange.”

“Fire's not in the house.” Zuko said as he and Terra walk onto the porch. “Let's check the beach.”

Once they make it to the beach they see... “Look, there's his hoofprints.” Hielo said. He follows them until they reach the water. “The trail ends here.”

“So, he went for a midnight swim and never came back?” Agua asked.

“Maybe he was captured.” Twilight said.

“I don't think so.” Shining said as he examines the tracks. “There's no sign of a struggle.”

“I bet he ran away again.” Terra said.

“Uh-uh. He left behind his sword and us.” Twilight said, with ‘us’ meaning ‘her.’

“Then what do you think happened to him, oh sleuthy one?” Terra said.

“It's pretty obvious to me.” Rainbow said. “Fire’ mysteriously disappears before an important battle? He's definitely on a Spirit World journey.”

“But if he was, wouldn't his body still be here?” Zuko said to the rainbow maned Pegasus.

“Oh, yeah. Forgot about that.” A downcast Rainbow said.

“Then he's got to be somewhere on Ember Island.” Twilight said. “Let's split up and look for him.”

Suddenly, Terra latches onto Zuko's leg, causing him to blush. “I'm going with Zuko!” The group then stare at her. “What?! Fire’ and Agua went on a life-changing field trip with Zuko. Now it's my turn.”

==================================================================

Celestia, Luna, Lunar, Ar, Blitz, Hielo, Rainbow, Scootaloo and Golden Rod are looking for Fire’ in the air, with no luck. “Where could he be?” Blitz asked.

==================================================================

In Harbor City, a disguise Twilight, Agua, Shining, Rarity, Sweetie Belle, Applejack and Apple Bloom hear a commotion and see a crowed chanting, “Fire! Fire! Fire! Fire! Fire! Fire! Fire! Fire! Fire! Fire! Fire! Fire! Fire! Fire!” The five of them go through the circle, hoping to find Fire,’ but instead they find an Earth Pony that is eating fire. Twilight nearly loses her temper due to an old Earth Pony stallion looking like her boyfriend. And in an ironic twist, they learn that his name is also Firebrand.

==================================================================

Meanwhile, Terra and Zuko are walking along the beach. Zuko isn’t happy due to Terra telling him her whole life story. “And then when I was nine, I ran away again.” Terra said.

“Uh-huh.”

“I know I shouldn't complain. My parents gave me everything I ever asked for, but they never gave me the one thing I really wanted, their love. You know what I mean?”

Zuko just sighs and stops walking. “Look, I know you had a really rough childhood, but we should really focus on finding Firebrand.” Zuko then starts walking.

“This is the worst field trip ever.” Terra said with a sight as she walks.

==================================================================

Later, back at the beach house, Terra, Zuko, Twilight, Agua, Shining, Rarity, Sweetie Belle, Applejack and Apple Bloom are siting on the beach house stairs when Celestia, Luna, Lunar, Ar, Blitz, Hielo, Rainbow, Scootaloo and Golden Rod land below them. “Judging by the looks on your faces, I'm guessing you guys didn't find Fire,’ either.” Hielo said.

“No.” Zuko said to them. “It's like he just ... disappeared.”

“Hey, wait a minute.” Terra said when she realizes something. “Has anyone noticed that Owlowiscious is missing, too?”

“He's probably with Fire’” Twilight said.

“We have a real problem here.” Zuko said. “Firebrand is nowhere to be found and the comet is only two days away.”

“What should we do Zuko?” Twilight asked as the entire group stare at him.

“I don't know.” Zuko said as he stands up. The group continue to stare at him. “Why are you all looking at me?”

“Well, you are kind of the expert on tracking the Avatars.” Twilight pointed out.

“Yeah, if anyone's got experience hunting us Avatars ... it's you.” Terra said to him. Zuko then nods in agreement.

==================================================================

Later, the group is flying in a chariot, with Zuko telling the Pegasi Guards which way to go. “Zuko, I don't wanna tell you how to do your job, but why are we heading towards Geo Firma?” Hielo asked. “There's no way Fire's there.”

“Just trust me.” Zuko said as the fly to Geo Firma.

==================================================================

At the Fire Nation Royal Palace, Ozia and Azula are traveling in palanquins to an airship. “Come on slowpokes! Faster!” An impatient Azula said to her palanquin bearers when Ozia reaches the ship. Ozia walks out of his palanquin and up the stairs as Azula runs behind him and bows. “Sorry I'm late, father. Good palanquin bearers are so hard to come by these days. So, is everything ready for our departure?”

“There has been a change of plans, Azula.” Ozia said to his daughter.

“What?” A worried Azula asked.

“I've decided to lead the fleet of airships to Ba Sing Se alone.” Ozia answered. “You will remain here in the Fire Nation.”

“But I thought we were going to do this together.”

“My decision is final.”

“You ... You can't treat me like this!” Azula said as she gets up. “You can't treat me like Zuko!”

“Azula, silence yourself.”

“But it was my idea to burn everything to the ground!” Azula argued. “I deserve to be by your side!”

“Azula!” Ozia barked. Azula then bows her head. “Listen to me. I need you here to watch over the homeland. It's a very important job that I can only entrust to you.”

“Really?”

“And for your loyalty, I've decided to declare you the new Fire Lord.” Ozia said, shocking Azula.

“Fire Lord Azula? It does seem appropriate, but what about you?” Azula asked her father.

“Fire Lord Ozia is no more.” He said as he turns around. “Just as the world will be reborn in fire, I shall be reborn as the supreme ruler of the world.” Three Fire Sages then help Ozia put on his new royal garments, which have a golden flame pattern on. “From this moment on, I will be known as ... the Phoenix King.” Servants then pull up the phoenix emblem behind Ozia as Soldiers raise the phoenix flags beside the Fire Nation flags. Two more soldiers use flamethrowers on the base of the flag pole, causing fire to shoot out at the sides. The crowd then bows before their new king.

==================================================================

Inside a tavern in Geo Firma at night, lively music plays as Zuko enters, followed by Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, Shining, Cadence, Terra, Blitz, Ar, Golden Rod, Celestia, Luna, Lunar, Hielo and Agua. “And the reason you've brought us to a seedy Geo Firma tavern is what now?” Twilight asked.

“June.” Zuko said while pointing at an Earth Pony mare with a light green coat and a black mane, which is like Rarity’s. She also has dark yellow eyes and a silver circle with a gold star in it for a cutie mark. A thug then tries to attack her, but she makes him fall down and uses him as a foot rest. Another thug tries to punch her, but she dodges every punch, still holding her drink.

“Oh yeah, that famous bounty hunter with the giant mole.” Shining said, recognizing June’s name.

“Mole? Her skin is flawless.” Rarity pointed out.

“No Rarity.” Twilight said. “She has this giant mole creature she rides around on that can track a ponies scent across continents.”

“The shirshu.” Zuko said. “It's the only animal that can track Fire’s scent anywhere in the world. It's the one shot we have of finding him.” As the second thug continues to tries and punch June, she throws her drink into the air, throws the thug at a table, catches her drink and takes a sip.

The entire group, except Zuko, Shining, Cadence, Celestia, Luna, Lunar and Terra, are shocked at what June just did. Terra then steps forward, all while grinning broadly. “I don't know who this June lady is, but I like her.” She said.

==================================================================

Meanwhile, Fire’ is fast asleep, Owlowiscious pecking at his head. Fire’ then eventually wakes up, with it being dawn. “Hey, Owlowiscious. I just had the strangest dream.” Fire’ said as he rubs his eye, when he notices something different about his surroundings. “Wait. Where are we?” He said when he sees that he’s on an island in the middle of the open ocean.

Chapter 15, Sozin's Comet Part 2: The Old Masters

The Elements of Nature
Book 3: 气 (Air)
Chapter 15, Sozin's Comet Part 2: The Old Masters

It’s night in Geo Firma. At a tavern, Team Avatar, sans Fire,’ watches as a bounty hunter, June, sits in her seat and begins drinking her tea. “Hey, I remember her!” Hielo suddenly said. “She helped you attack us when we were at that village four years ago!”

“Yup.” Zuko commented. “Back in the good old days.”

The group then walk up to June. “Oh great. It's Prince Pouty.” June said when she recognizes Zuko. “Where's your creepy grandpa?”

“He's my uncle.” Zuko said to the bounty hunter. “And he's not here.”

June then notices Agua. “I see you worked things out with your girlfriend.” June said, mistaking Agua for a female member of the Ice Knights.

Zuko and Agua then look at June, weirded out. “I'm not his girlfriend!” Agua angrily said as Zuko says, “She's not my girlfriend!” At the same time.

“Okay, okay. Sheesh. I was only teasing. So what do you want?” June asked.

“I need your help finding the Fire Avatar.” Zuko answered.

“Hm. Doesn't sound too fun.” June said as she sips her tea.

“Does the end of the world sound like more fun?” Zuko angrily said to her. Outside of the tavern, Nyla, June's shirshu, is growling at Spike.

“Easy, mole-rat thing.” Spike nervously said as the gang and June come walking toward them, the latter carrying a piece of meat.

June then holds the meat up and shakes it. “Nyla.” June said as she throws the meat to Nyla, who catches it in his mouth and starts chewing it before swallowing. June then walks up to him and starts petting. “Who's my little, hmm, Snuffly-Wuffly?” June said, causing Spike to nearly vomit. Nyla then sticks his toxins-coated tongue out, but June dodges it and forces his mouth closed. “Whoa! Careful their.” June then looks at the group. “Okay. So who's got something with the Fire Avatar's scent on it?”

“I have his sword.” Twilight said as she takes out Fire’s sword from the chariot.

Twilight then gives June the sword, who holds it out in front of Nyla. He sniffs it and walks around in circles, trying to sniff the scent out somewhere else. Eventually he lies back down and covers his nose. “Well, what does that mean?” Lunar asked.

“It means your friend's gone.” June said as she pets Nyla.

“We know he's gone.” An annoyed Rainbow said. “That's why we're trying to find him.”

“No, I mean he's gone gone. He doesn't exist.” June said.

==================================================================

At the mysteries island Fire’ and Owlowiscious are on, the two are looking around, searching for a sing of life. “Where are we, Owlowiscious? Maybe I'm in the Spirit World? But wait. You can see me. We could both be in the Spirit World.” Fire’ then uses his firebending. “Nope. My bending works.” Owlowiscious then lands on him and points at the top of a hill. “Maybe if we climb to the top of the island, we can figure out where we are. And why do I have the Elements of Harmony and Nature with me?”

==================================================================

“What do you mean Fire’ doesn't exist? Do you mean he's ... you know, dead?” A clearly worried Twilight said to June.

“Nope. We could find him if he were dead. Wow, it's a real head-scratcher. See ya.” June then begins to climb onto Nyla.

“Helpful. Real helpful.” Terra sarcastically said.

“Wait.” Zuko said to June. “I have another idea. There's only one other pony in this world who can help us face the Fire Lord. I'll be right back with a smell sample.” Later, Zuko holds up his uncle's old sandal which is now covered in flies. All of Team Avatar are holding their noses in disgust, except for Zuko and Terra, with the former embarrassed.

“You saved your uncle's sweaty sandal?! Ugh!” Hielo said as he tries to not smell.

“I think it's kind of sweet.” Terra said with a smile.

Nyla then jumps forward and sniffs the sandal. “Let's do this.” A determined June said as she and Nyla run off.

“Hey! Wait up!” Zuko said as they get on the chariot and fly after them.

==================================================================

They follow Nyla from the sky on a long journey until they end up at the destroyed Outer Wall of Ba Sing Se. The group land as Nyla starts digging at the wreckage. “We're going to Ba Sing Se?” Lunar asked.

“Zuko.” June said to the Fire Prince. “Your uncle's somewhere beyond the wall. Nyla's getting twitchy so he can't be too far. Good luck.” She and Nyla then ride off.

“It's been a long day.” Twilight said. “Let's set up camp and start our search again at dawn.”

==================================================================

Back on the island, Fire’ and Owlowiscious reach a strange, flat rock-formation at the hill-top. “It's a hexagon.” Fire’ said. He then feels the formation. “It doesn't seem like normal rock.” Fire’ said as he sits down. “This is so strange. I wish I had some help right now. I wish I had Roku.” Fire’ then suddenly realizes something. “I do have Roku!” Fire’ then takes a deep breath and starts meditating. The spirit of Avatar Roku then appears before him as Owlowiscious flies off.

“You're right, Firebrand.” The spirit said. “All the past Avatars, all their experience and wisdom, is available to you if you look deep inside yourself.”

“So where am I, Roku? What is this place?” Fire’ asked.

“I ... don't know, Firebrand. But I see you are lost in more ways than one right now.”

“I am. I need to figure out what to do once I face the Fire Lord.”

==================================================================

Back at the outside of Ba Sing Se, everyone is asleep. Terra is sleeping in an earth tent when she suddenly senses something and wakes up. She lowers her tent as the group is surrounded by a wall of fire. They look up and see 5 ponies, all stallions. One a Pegasus with a navy blue coat, a light blue-grey mane, yellow eyes and a water drop for a cutie mark.

Another is an Earth Pony with a brown coat and a green-grey mane and a boulder for a cutie mark. He is at least twice as old as Granny Smith. Another is an Earth Pony that has a yellow coat, a black mane, amber eyes, and twin swords for a cutie mark. Another Earth Pony has a golden coat, a dark red mane, amber eyes, and a fireball for a cutie mark. The last one is a unicorn, one Twilight and Shining recognized as their “Dad?” The two siblings asked. All the stallions are wearing white robs with a lotus pattern on them.

“Well, look who's here!” The brown Earth Pony said. He then starts laughing and snorting.

==================================================================

Back to the island, Fire’ is still talking to Avatar Roku's spirit. “Everyone expects me and the others to take the Fire Lord's life, but I just don't know if I can do that.” Fire’ said to his past life.

“In my life, I tried to be disciplined and show restraint, but it backfired when Fire Lord Sozin took advantage of my restraint and mercy. If I had been more decisive and acted sooner, I could have stopped Sozin and stopped the war before it started. I offer you this wisdom, Firebrand: You must be decisive.” Roku then vanishes, leaving a disappointed Fire.’

==================================================================

Back at Ba Sing Se, the team is now joined by the stallions in white robes. “What's going on?” A confused Terra asked. “We're surrounded by old ponies.”

“Not just any old ponies.” Agua said as she runs up to the old Pegasus. “Good to see you, Grandpa Pakku.”

“Good to see you too, my little waterbender.” The Pegasus known as Pakku said.

“Hey, I know you.” Zuko said to the earth pony with a fire-ball for a cutie mark. “Your Jeong Jeong, the only Fire Nation solider who left the army without getting killed.”

“Indeed, I am.” Jeong Jeong said.

“Master Piandao.” Hielo said to the Earth Pony with twin swords for a cutie mark.

“Hello, Hielo.” Piandao said.

“Dad, why are you here?” Shining asked his dad, Night Light.

“And how do you know these other ponies?” Twilight asked.

“All old ponies know each other.” The old brown Unicorn said to the two siblings, popping up right behind Night Light. “Don't you know that?” He then laughs and snorts.

“Not the time, Bumi.” Night Light said to the old Unicorn. “Anyway, to answer your questions, we're all part of the same ancient secret society. A group that transcends the divisions of the nations of the world.”

“The Order of the White Lotus.” Zuko said, getting stares from the group, except the Order of the White Lotus members.

“That's the one.” Bumi said.

“The White Lotus has always been about philosophy and beauty and truth.” Jeong Jeong said. “But about a month ago, a call went out that we were needed for something important.”

“It came from a Grand Lotus: your uncle, Iroh of the Fire Nation.” Pakku said to Zuko, who smiles.

“Well, that's who we're looking for.” Terra pointed out.

“Then we'll take you to him.” Piandao said.

“Wait.” Night Light said when he notices something is wrong. “Where's Firebrand?”

“He's gone.” Hielo said.

“My pet horn owl, Owlowiscious, is gone too.” Twilight pointed out.

“Oh well.” Bumi said. “So long as they have each other, I'm sure we have nothing to worry about. Let's go.” He then launches himself away using earthbending while laughing and snorting.

==================================================================

Back on the island, Fire’ is still meditating. Owlowiscious moves behind Fire’ before moving away. “Avatar Kyoshi. I need your wisdom.”

The spirit of Avatar Kyoshi then appears before him. “In my day, Chin the Conqueror threatened to throw the world out of balance. I stopped him. And the world entered a great era of peace.”

“You didn't really kill Chin.” Fire’ pointed out. “Technically, he fell to his own doom because he was too stubborn to get out-of-the-way.”

“Personally, I don't really see the difference, but I assure you, I would have done whatever it took to stop Chin. I offer you this wisdom, Firebrand: Only justice will bring peace.” Kyoshi said as she disappears.

“I knew I shouldn't have asked Kyoshi.” A disappointed Fire’ said.

==================================================================

Back to the rest of the group, they are walking with the White Lotus members to their campsite. “Bumi, was it?” Zuko asked. “Your the king of the Geo Firma city of Omashu, so ... how did you end up escaping your imprisonment in Omashu after the Fire Nation captured it?”

“Escape?” Bumi said to the Fire Prince. “I didn't escape. Everypony else escaped.” Bumi then tells the group what happened.

==================================================================

“There I was back in Omashu, waiting for just the right moment.” Bumi is suspended in an anti-magic box. “I didn't know what or when, but I knew I'd know it when I knew it.” Bumi then notices that the gas line is broken and that the gas tanks are empty. “A gas shortage. That'll do it.” He then twitches his face, and he begins using earthbending to launch pieces of nearby rooftops into his cage, breaking himself out. Flamethrowers then quickly show up to confront him.

“What do you think you're doing?” The leader said. They try to blast Bumi, but are powerless due to gas leak.

They then look at Bumi in horror, who smiles evilly. “Taking back my city! You've got no firepower. And it's payback time!” Bumi then launches himself off the platform. He then uses earthbending to bring down several steam buildings built by the Fire Nation. The soldiers all start to flee from the city. Bumi then looks up at a giant metal statue of Fire Lord Ozia. He launches eight guards behind him by creating earth pillars. He then launches the pillars into the eyes, nose, mouth, and cheeks of the statue. He also uses earthbending to bring down the statue as it falls out of the city and into the abyss below the front gate. Bumi laughs and snorts as he sees this and starts eating a piece of jennamite, which is a naturally fast growing sugar rock.

==================================================================

“Wow!” An amazed Rainbow said. “You took back your whole city all by yourself!”

“Yep.” Bumi said. He then opens his saddle bag and brings out some jennamite. “I have some jennamite. Wan’t any?”

“Ah like some.” Applejack said. Bumi then gives her some, and when she takes a bite, she nearly has a sugar rush. “Ah reckon yo' sh'dn't’ give this hyar stuff t'Pinkie.”

“Too late.” Bumi said. Applejack then sees Pinkie running all over the place, even more of a nuthouse them before.

“Jennamiteisgood,youreallyshouldtryitguys!Willyou?Huh?Huh?Huh?Huh?Huh?Huh?” Pinkie said faster than a 100 km/h hurricane.

==================================================================

Back on the island, Fire’ is becoming irritated that he isn’t getting any good answers. “I need to look deep inside myself.” Fire’ starts meditating again. This time thee spirit of an Earth Pony Avatar appears before him.

“I am Avatar Kuruk.” He then flashes-back to a younger of himself, surfing. “When I was young, I was always a go-with-the-flow kind of Avatar. Ponies seemed to work out their own problems, and there was peace and good times in the world.” Avatar Kuruk then shows Fire’ him kissing the mare he loved. “But then, I lost the mare I loved to Koh, the Face Stealer, a centipede like spirit that can take the face of any creature that shows emotion. It was my fault. If I had been more attentive and more active, I could've saved her. Firebrand, you must actively shape your own destiny and the destiny of the world.” He then vanishes, leaving Firebrand even more disappointed.

==================================================================

Meanwhile, the rest of the team arrives at the White Lotus campsite. Bumi unblocks the camp with earthbending. “Well, here we are.” Bumi said. “Welcome to Old Pony Camp.”

“Where ... Where is he?” Zuko asked.

Piandao then points to a tent on the other side of the camp. “Your uncle's in there, Prince Zuko.” Zuko becomes worried and ashamed as he walks up to the front of his uncle's tent and sits on the ground. Celestia then walks up to him.

“Are you okay?” Celestia asked.

“No, I'm not okay.” Zuko answered. “My uncle hates me, I know it. He loved and supported me in every way he could, and I still turned against him. How can I even face him?”

“Zuko, you're sorry for what you did, right?” Celestia said.

“More sorry than I've been about anything in my entire life.”

“Then he'll forgive you. He will.” Celestia said.

Zuko then stands up and exhales deeply and walks into the tent. “Uncle?” Zuko said. He then hears snoring and sees Uncle Iroh, asleep. He smiles and sits down next to him.

==================================================================

Back at the island, Fire’ is debating with himself over what his past lives have said. “All these past Avatars. They keep telling me I'm gonna have to do it. They don't get it.”

Owlowiscious just says. “Hoo.”

“You're right. Maybe a Unicorn Avatar will understand where I'm coming from.” Owlowiscious then stares at him. “I know you can't really talk. Pretending you can just helps me think.”

“Hoo.” Fire’ then becomes annoyed.

“I'm going to pretend I didn't pretend to hear that.” Fire’ starts to meditate again. The spirit of another Avatar, a female Unicorn Avatar, appears before him.

“I am Avatar Yangchen, young firebender.” She said.

“Avatar Yangchen, my father always taught me that all life is sacred. Even the life of the tiniest spider-fly caught in its own web.” Fire’ said.

“Yes. All life is sacred.”

“I know. I've always tried to solve my problems by being quick or clever. And I've only had to use violence for necessary defense. And I've certainly never used it to take a life.”

“Avatar Firebrand, I know that you're a gentle spirit, and that your father taught you well, but this isn't about you. This is about the world.”

“But the monks of my homeland taught me that I had to detach myself from the world so my spirit could be free.”

“Many great and wise Unicorns have detached themselves and achieved spiritual enlightenment, but the Avatar can never do it. Because your sole duty is to the world. Here is my wisdom for you: Selfless duty calls you to sacrifice your own spiritual needs, and do whatever it takes to protect the world.” Yangchen then vanishes.

“I guess I don't have a choice, Owlowiscious.” A disappointed Fire’ said to the owl. “I have to kill the Fire Lord.” He sorrowfully said.

==================================================================

At the White Lotus camp, the sun begins to rise. A saddened Zuko is in his uncle's tent, waiting for him to wake up. Iroh finally wakes up and yawns, while facing away from Zuko. He glances back slightly and sees Zuko, but says nothing. “Uncle. I know you must have mixed feelings about seeing me. But I want you to know,” Zuko began to say as he starts to cry, “I am so, so, sorry, Uncle. I am so sorry and ashamed of what I did. I don't know how I can ever make it up to you. But I...” Before Zuko could finish, he is cut off by Iroh, who grabs him and hugs him, while starting to cry as well, and starts to smile. Zuko is shocked and confused at this. “How can you forgive me so easily? I thought you would be furious with me.”

“I was never angry with you. I was sad, because I was afraid you lost your way.” Iroh said to him.

“I did lose my way.” Zuko said as Iroh lets him go.

“But you found it again. And you did it by yourself. And I am so happy you found your way here.” Iroh said as he hugs Zuko again.

“It wasn't that hard, Uncle. You have a pretty strong scent.”

==================================================================

At the island Fire’ is on, he wakes up and notices something. He sees some mountains ‘approaching’ in the distance. “Wait. Is it just me, or are those mountains getting bigger?”

“Hoo.”

Fire’ then climbs up the tallest tree he could find and sees that the whole island is moving. “They're not getting larger. They're getting closer!” Fire’ excitedly said. Fire’ then jumps down onto the island floor and begins running, Owlowiscious in his wake. “The whole island is moving!” Fire’ said as he jumps underwater. He gets down around 20 feet when he sees a giant paw of some kind. He then swims back up to the surface.

“It's amazing Owlowiscious! The biggest animal in the world! I've gotta to swim around and find its face.” Fire’ then swims off toward the front of the ‘island,’ with Owlowiscious following him.

==================================================================

Back at the White Lotus camp, the team are in a circle with Iroh. “Uncle, you're the only pony other than the Fire Avatar who can possibly help us defeat the Father Lord.” Zuko said.

“Yo' mean th' Fire Lord” Applejack corrected.

“That's what I just said!” Zuko angrily said.

“Hmmm...” Iroh said as he thinks.

“We need you to come with us!” Zuko said.

“No, Zuko, it won't turn out well.” Iroh said to his nephew.

“You can beat him! And we'll be there to help.” Zuko said.

“Even if I did defeat Ozia during the comet, and I don't know that I could, it would be the wrong way to end the war. History would see it as just more senseless violence, a brother killing a brother to grab power. The only way for this war to end peacefully is for the Avatars to defeat the Fire Lord.”

“And then, you would come and take your rightful place on the throne?” Zuko asked.

“No.” Iroh answered. “Someone new must take the throne. An idealist with a pure heart and unquestionable honor. It has to be you, Prince Zuko.”

“Unquestionable honor? But I've made so many mistakes.” Zuko pointed out.

“Yes, you have.” Iroh said. “You've struggled; you've suffered, but you have always followed your own path. You restored your own honor, and only you can restore the honor of the Fire Nation.”

“I'll try, Uncle.”

“Well, what if Fire’ doesn't come back?” Terra asked.

“Sozin's Comet is arriving, and our destinies are upon us. Firebrand will face the Fire Lord.” Iroh said. “When I was a colt, I had a vision that I would one day take Ba Sing Se. Only now do I see that my destiny is to take it back from the Fire Nation, so Geo Firma can be free again.”

“That's why you gathered the members of the White Lotus.” Twilight said.

“Yes.” Iroh said. He then turns to “Zuko, you must return to the Fire Nation, so that when the Fire Lord falls, you can assume the throne and restore peace and order. But Azula will be there, waiting for you.”

“I can handle Azula.” Zuko said

“Not alone! You'll need help.”

“You’re right.” Zuko said to his uncle. “Agua, Rainbow, Applejack, Shining, how would you 4 like to help me put Azula in her place?” He asked.

“It would be our pleasure.” Shining answered for them.

“What about us?” Scootaloo asked, referring to her, Twilight, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Terra, Blitz, Ar, Golden Rod, Lunar and Hielo. What is our destiny today?”

“What do you think it is?” Iroh said tot he impatient Pegasus filly.

“I think that, even though we don't know where Fire’ is, we need to do everything we can to stop the airship fleet.” Blitz said.

“And that means when Fire' does face the Fire Lord, we'll be right there if he needs us.” Twilight said as Iroh smiles. A bit later, Twilight, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Terra, Blitz, Ar, Golden Rod and Lunar are on a large, amphibious lizard that is at least eight feet tall and roughly twenty-five to thirty feet long, with dark green scales (except along its stomach) from its jaw to its tail. Hielo is on the ground talking to Piandao as Fluttershy pets the giant lizard.

“Thats a good little doggy.” She cooed.

“It’s not a dog.” Piandao pointed out. “Nothing runs faster over land or swims quicker than a giant eel hound.” He then hands Hielo a map, who examines it. “The air ship base is on a small island just off the Geo Firma shore. You should be able to intercept the fleet within a day's journey.”

“Thank you, Master.” Hielo said. They then bow to each other and Hielo hugs him.

On the chariot, Shining, Agua, Rainbow, Applejack, and Zuko are getting ready to leave. “Me and Luna will return to Equestria to help build up our defenses in case Ozia has any other ships.” Celestia said as Zuko gets on the chariot.

“So if I'm going to be Fire Lord after the war is over, what are you going to do?” Zuko asked his uncle.

“After I re-conquer Ba Sing Se, I'm going to re-conquer my tea shop, and I'm going to play Pai Sho every day.” Iroh answered as he flips a Pai Sho piece and catches it as he speaks.

“Goodbye, General Iroh.” Twilight said as her group leaves for the island while Zuko’s group goes to the Fire Nation.

“Goodbye, everyone. Today, destiny is our friend. I know it.” General Iroh said.

==================================================================

Meanwhile, Firebrand is still swimming to the front of the ‘island.’ He takes a deep breath and goes back underwater taking a closer look at the ‘island.’ He sees a giant eye open, and swims back in surprise. He is then lifted up, out of the water, by a giant paw. He then sees the head of the creature go above the waterline and sees that the ‘island’ is really a...

“A lion turtle!” He said out of surprise, having heard of them from his father. And, like the Avatar before, they were considered a myth by many. Fire’ then bows before the gigantic creature as Owlowiscious lands on his back. “Maybe you can help me. Everyone, even my own past lives, is expecting me to end somepony's life. But I don't know if I can do it. What should I do?”

“The true mind can weather all the lies and illusions without being lost.” The lion turtle said, with his mouth not moving at all. “The true heart can tough the poison of hatred without being harmed. Since beginning-less time, darkness thrives in the void but always yields to purifying light.” As it was speaking, near the end, the lion turtle slowly brought its other paw and placed two claws on Fire,’ one on his forehead and the other on his chest, and a bright light issues forth from it.

A bit later, the lion turtle's paw goes slowly toward a small cliff in Geo Firma, and Fire’ steps off onto dry land. Fire’ now also has a small crown that's like Twilight’s tiara, only with a fire like pattern on it with red and orange gems and a white robe that has lines in the colors of the Elements of Harmony and Nature that lead to a white orb on his chest. “Wait for him. He will come.” The lion turtle said to Fire,’ who bows as the lion turtle as he sinks back, goes mostly under water until just a small part of him is visible, and swims off.

==================================================================

At Ozia’s base, he and his soldiers are preparing for the upcoming battle. “It's time for this world to end in fire, and for a new world to be born from the ashes.” He said as he sees the comet enter the atmosphere. It’s original blue color then turns a burning orang as it flies across the sky.

==================================================================

In Geo Firma, Fire’ sees the comet appear behind him. He then looks to the ocean and waits for Ozia to come.

Chapter 16, Sozin's Comet Part 3: Into the Inferno

The Elements of Nature
Book 3: 气 (Air)
Chapter 16, Sozin's Comet Part 3: Into the Inferno

As Sozin's Comet skims through the atmosphere of the Earth, Zuko, Agua, Rainbow, Applejack and Shining are flying on the chariot briskly through the now orange-colored sky. “Zuko, don't worry.” Agua said. “We can take Azula.”

“It's not her I'm worried about.” Zuko said to the Water Avatar. “I'm worried about Fire.’ What if he doesn't have the guts to take out my father? What if he loses?”

“Fire’ won't lose.” Shining reassured. “He's gonna come back. He has to ... for Twilight.” Shining quietly finished.

==================================================================

At the Fire Nation Royal Palace, Azula is being groomed by her servants in preparation for her coronation. She takes a cherry from a bowl one of her servants is holding and pops it into her mouth, only to spit out a pit in disgust. “What am I holding?” She asked the servant.

“A cherry pit, Princess.” The servant nervously answered.

“Correct. And what day is this?” Azula asked.

“It is the day of your coronation.”

“Yes, it is.” Azula said with such coldness, you needed a hundred jackets. “So, please. Tell me why, on the most important day of my life, you've decided to leave a pit in my cherry?” She then throws it at the servant.

“It wasn't a decision, it was just a small mistake.”

“Small? Do you realize what could've happened if I hadn't sensed the pit in time?” An annoyed Azula asked.

“I suppose you could've ... choked?” The servant nervously said.

“Yes, then you will understand the severity of your crime.” Azula said as she thinks of a few ways to end the servant.

“I understand, Princess. Please, forgive me.” The servant begged.

“Oh very well, since it is a special day, I will show mercy.” Azula quietly said, unusually for her. “You are banished! Leave this palace immediately.” The servant then bows and quietly walks away. “ What are you all looking at? I have four hoofs that need scrubbing. And make sure you get in between the gaps. I won't have my first day as Fire Lord marred by poor hoof hygiene.”

==================================================================

As the eel hound swims through the water, Twilight’s group is riding on top of the beast as they see the comet. “It's weird to say, but the comet actually looks beautiful.” Fluttershy said as they look at the orang sky.

“Too bad the Fire Lord's about to use it to destroy the world.” Terra pointed out. The eel hound then arrives at the shore of the airship base. The group then climb their way up a cliff side, only to discover the fleet has just taken off.

“We're too late! The fleet's already taking off!” Hielo said as the airships take off one by one.

“Then we're taking off, too!” Terra said with a determined face. “Where's the closest airship?”

“It's right...” Blitz began to say while pointing, only to be interrupted as Terra launches them toward an airship, using earthbending. After a swift ascension, they fall onto a nearby ship and make their way across the giant vessel.

==================================================================

At the Fire Nation Royal Palace, Azula is sitting impatiently on her throne as a band of Dai Li agents approaches her. “You sent for us, Princess.” The current head of the Dai Li said. “Is everything all right?”

“Actually, everything's not all right!” Azula said to them. “Do you know how long it took you to get here?”

“Uh ... a few minutes, I guess.”

“Five, to be precise, in which time an assassin could've snuck in, done away with me and been on his merry way!” A clearly close-to-be-sent-to-an-insane-asylum said.

“My apologies, Princess.”

“Is this how you plan to treat your new Fire Lord? With tardiness and disloyalty?”

“The Dai Li would never betray you!”

“And I'm sure that's just what you told Long Feng before you turned against him and joined me!” Azula then hesitates for a moment. “You're all banished!”

“But...”

“Goodbye!” The agent pauses briefly before turning around and exiting the room followed by the other Dai Li agents behind him. “Please send in the next group on your way out!” Azula said as she looks at them menacingly.

==================================================================

Meanwhile, back on the airship, Twilight’s group have made their way to the main control room. “Sshhh...” Hielo said as he is up against the wall. Terra approaches the door and knocks several times before breaking it down. Using metalbending, she creates a suit of armor from the door and assaults the astonished crew members.

The Fire Nation soldiers use lightning guns on her, but she merely dodges them and metalbends various parts of the ship's interior to imprison the crew members. With all the soldiers defeated, Twilight, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Blitz, Ar, Golden Rod and Lunar peer into the room as Terra takes off her suit of armor. “That's how it's done!” Terra said.

“Good work, Terra!” Hielo said.

“Time to take control of the ship, take the wheel.” Lunar said.

“That's a great idea! Let the blind mare steer the giant airship!” Terra sarcastically said.

“I was talking to Ar.” Lunar pointed out.

“That would make a lot more sense.” Terra said.

Ar then takes the wheel. “What are we going to do about the rest of the crew?” Scootaloo asked.

“Take us down closer to the water. I've got an idea.” Pinkie said, getting worried looks from the group. Pinkie then takes a speaker. “Attention, crew, this is your copilot speaking. Everyone please report to the bomb bay immediately for hot cakes and sweet cream. We have a very special birthday to celebrate!” Pinkie said with a laugh as Ar steers the ship closer to the water.

==================================================================

In the bomb bay, the crew members are standing around, waiting. “Hey, I'm Qin Lee.” One said to a nearby engineer. “I work up in communications.”

“Oh, hi. I work down in the engine room. That's probably why we never met before. Big airship, you know?” The engineer said.

“Yep.” Qin Lee said.

“So, do you know whose birthday it is?” The engineer said.

A mare crew member then approaches the two. “I can't believe the captain and copilot remembered my birthday. They really do care.” Just then, the bomb bay doors open and all the crew members fall into the ocean.

After a few moments, the crew members swim back up for air. “Happy birthday.” The engineer said to the female crew member.

==================================================================

Back up into the cabin, “Good thinking, Pinkie.” Twilight complemented.

“Fire Lord Ozia, here we come.” Hielo said as he takes the wheel.

==================================================================

Back at the Fire Nation royal palace, Azula is at the throne, looking to her left when she hears footsteps. It’s Lo and Li walking toward the throne. (key: Lo italics, Li bold, both italics and bold). “Azula, we heard what happened. Why have you banished all your servants?”

“All your Dai Li agents...”

“And the Imperial Flamethrowers?”

“None of them could be trusted. Sooner or later, they all would have betrayed me. Just like Mai and Ty Lee did.” Azula answered the two.

“Azula, we are concerned for you and your well-being.”

“My father asked you to come here and talk to me, didn't he?” Azula asked while glaring at the two. “He thinks I can't handle the responsibility of being Fire Lord. But I will be the greatest leader in Fire Nation history.”

“I'm sure you will. But considering everything that has happened today...”

“Perhaps it's best if you postponed your coronation.”

“What?” Azula said in anger. “Which one of you just said that?” Lo and Li just point at each other. “What a shame ... There's only one way to resolve this. You two must duel each other. I order you to fight an Agni Kai!”

“But...”

“We're too old to use flamethrowers or lightning guns.”

“All right, fine.” Azula then points at Li. “Lo, you're banished.” She then points at Lo, while actually talking to Li. “Li, you can stay.” Azula then walks away.

“But, I'm Li. So who's banished?” Lo just shrugs at Li.

==================================================================

At Ba Sing Se, Fire Nation tanks are rolling toward the main gate. On the other side, the Order of the White Lotus is preparing for battle, with Iroh leading, followed by Jeong Jeong, Bumi, Pakku, Night Light, and Piandao. “Ba Sing Se, the Order of the White Lotus is here.” Bumi said.

“Here to set you free.” Night Light finished.

“Only once every 2000 years can the creatures of this world, especially benders, experience this kind of power.” Iroh said. He then inhales deeply. Iroh then exhales a ring of fire around them. The flames grow larger each time Iroh breathes deeply. Iroh opens his eyes and raises his arms, as the flames around him collect to make a ball of fire. It collects energy and Iroh fires it as a massive fire blast that breaches the Outer Wall. Bumi then jumps forward and stomps the ground. The three stone blocks that the Order's members are standing on begin to quickly move toward Ba Sing Se. Behind the wall, fire blasts are shot at the Order members, but Iroh deflects the attacks. The Order members then leap and go toward the city.

At an alleyway, Pakku bends a giant wave of water over the building and down toward the Fire Nation soldiers. Piandao then jumps over it as Pakku turns the wave into ice, freezing the soldiers. Piandao slides down the frozen wave and slashes the ends of the soldier's weapons. Sliding into another street, Pakku unfreezes the water, freezes it again in front of him to block an incoming fire blast, with Night Lights help. The ice and magic barriers are destroyed, and when another fire blast is about to hit them, a giant wall of fire erupts, made by Jeong Jeong, in front of him, stopping the attack.

Jeong Jeong is floating in the air using firebending to create fire jets beneath his feet. Jeong Jeong turns to another street as a line of tanks fire on him, but he blocks the attacks with another giant wall of fire and thrusts the wall knocking the tanks. More tanks begin to fire on him from another street, but Jeong Jeong repeats his actions, creating a wall of flame and attacking the tanks with it. Night Light then levitates the tanks that are knocked over and piles.

==================================================================

In the Fire Nation, Azula is standing in front of a full length mirror. She takes a ribbon and begins leisurely winding around her hair. Her hoof gets caught as she is tying her hair into a top knot. Frustrated, she tugs at the tangled mess a few times before she grabs a pair of scissors from the table next to her, ready to cut her hair. “All right hair, it's time to face your doom.” Azula then grabs the bangs hanging in front of her face.

She lifts them in the air and cuts them, with them falling near her hoofs. Her reflection in the mirror shows her grinning, with her hair a mess, but she stops grinning as she notices her mother, Ursa, behind her. “What a shame, you always had such beautiful hair.” ‘Ursa’ said to Azula.

“What are you doing here?”

“I didn't want to miss my own daughter's coronation.”

“Don't pretend to act proud. I know what you really think of me. You think I'm a monster.”

“I think you're confused. All your life you used fear to control people, like your friends Mai and Ty Lee.” ‘Ursa’ said to a clearly angered Azula.

Azula then closes her eyes and turns around sharply to face her mother. “Well what choice do I have?! Trust is for fools. Fear is the only reliable way. Even you fear me.”

“No. I love you, Azula. I do.” ‘Ursa’ sincerely said. Azula then bends over slightly, tears in her eyes, and her hair hanging down in messy locks. Her hoof is gripped around a hairbrush on the table. The enraged princess lets out a shout and hurls the brush at the mirror. The resulting impact shatters a large portion of the mirror, including where ‘Ursa's’ reflection was. Azula then gets on her kneels and begins bitterly crying. The room is devoid of any other ponies, meaning that ‘Ursa's’ reflection was a mere hallucination.

==================================================================

Ozia is standing at the front of his airship. Ozia then inhales deeply. He exhales, opens his eyes and smiles. Hielo is seeing this from his binoculars and has a terrified look on his face. “We're not gonna catch up to him in time.” Hielo said as he puts up the binoculars.

“No...” Twilight sadly said as Ozia tilts his head back and smiles sadistically. Ozia then raises his leg in the air, pulls his hoof down toward the ground beneath. A small but incredibly intense flame then forms on his hoof, growing larger until it is finally fired into an enormous fire blast that ignites the earth below. Ozia, as he burns the ground, has a sadistic grin. On a tall stone pillar, Fire’ is standing, facing Ozia's assault. Seated on Fire's shoulder, Owlowiscious hoots.

“Owlowiscious, time for you to go.” Fire’ said to the horned owl. Owlowiscious then leaps off of Fire's back as he closes his eyes and breathes deeply. Fire’ then performs several spinning kicks, and uses firebending to fire two large blasts of fire. The fireballs whistle past the side of Ozia's airship, which catches his notice. The fireballs strike the airship's engine, which causes Ozia to lose balance and stop his attack. The airship begins to smoke due to the damaged engines. It soon loses power and begins to descend. Ozia then looks down and sees Fire,’ who spins his body around, gathering his energy, and unleashes a huge fire blast at Ozia's ship, striking the final blow to its engine, thereby destroying the airship.

Fire’ turns to the side toward the airship and it floats past him, facing Ozia for the first time. Ozia stares at Fire’ with surprise, who is standing on top of a stone pillar in the distance. Ozia then removes his Phoenix King armor and cloak, burning it and leaving his chest bare. Ozia then jumps off of the platform he is standing on, using his newly gained firebending to fly like a rocket toward Fire.’

“What the hay just happened?” Rainbow asked.

“It's Fire’! He's back!” An excited Twilight said as she teleports to Fire’s side.

“How did I know she would do that?” Rarity said.

Twilight then appears next to Firebrand, who is shocked at first, but smiles when he realizes that he need all the help he can get right now. “After generations of Fire Lords failed to find you, now the universe delivers you to me as an act of providence.” Ozia said to Fire.’

“Please listen to me.” Fire’ said to Ozia. “We don't have to fight. You have the power to end it here and stop what you're doing.”

“You are right. I do have the power. I have all the power in the World!” Ozia then begins to shoot fire from his hoofs and mouth. Fire’ and Twilight then enter battle stances as Ozia’s flames die. Ozia then jumps, In midair, Ozia propels himself at the two Unicorns using a jet of fire from his hoofs. At the same time, Fire’ jumps toward Ozia, sending a wave of fire at him. Ozia then kicks forward and shoots a fire blast from his hoof. The two attacks collide in a fiery explosion.

In the commended airship, “Go, Fire’! Firebending slice!” An excited Pinkie said.

“Sh'dn't we be he'pin' them?!” Apple Bloom asked.

“The Fire Lord is Fire’ and Twilight’s fight.” Lunar said. “We need to stay focused on stopping that fleet from burning down Geo Firma.”

“And how do we do that, Captain Death?!” Terra said sarcastically. “I can't see outside of this floating hunk of metal.”

Scootaloo then smiles as she comes up with an idea. “Airship slice!” She excitedly said. A bit later, the airship they are piloting begins to rise higher and higher into the air. Scootaloo is at the wheel as she begins to pull some levers. She then spins the wheel to her left. The airship then banks toward the left end of the airship fleet behind it. Firebenders are standing on platforms jutting out toward the front. In unison, they begin to firebend. The fire blasts hit the ground below, the fire burns and creates an immense amount of smoke as the forest is engulfed in flames. The others are looking down at the chaos through the cabin's shattered window.

“Whoa. That's a lot of fire, isn't it.” Terra said, able to feel the heat from the flames. Scootaloo than spins the wheel back around as their airship comes to face the side of the airship fleet. She pulls more levers, steadying the ship. A dials needle is turning to the maximum as smoke billows out the exhaust pipes of the airship. The airship's engines then rupture and explode.

“It's gonna be a rough ride!” Scootaloo said while gritting her teeth in determination. “We need to get to the top of this thing, fast.”

Hielo then grabs Terra's hoof, and they run to the exit with the others following not too far behind. Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle stop at the doorway, as the others continue running on. “Then what?!” Sweetie responded to Scootaloo's last comment.

“Watch each other's backs, and if we make it that far, I'll let you know.” Scootaloo said before catching up with the others. The airship begins to descend as it plows into other airships, causing a domino-effect of crashing. The group climb or fly their way up a ladder to the top of the airship. The floor beneath them suddenly gets destroyed right when Hielo got up the ladder; they had just made it. The 10 of them climb out through a hatch on top. Hielo grabs Terra's hoof to guide her, and they begin running toward the front of the ship.

With the airship still flying through the fleet, but slowly demolishing itself in process, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Blitz, Ar, Golden Rod, Lunar and Terra are racing toward the front of the airship. Suddenly, just as they are getting to their destination, part of the airship falls off, separating Apple Bloom, Pinkie, Rarity and Sweetie Belle from Hielo, Fluttershy, Pinkie, Scootaloo, Blitz, Ar, Golden Rod, Lunar and Terra as their piece of airship is drifting away from Apple Bloom, Pinkie, Rarity and Sweetie Belle’s. “Guys!” Golden Rod called out.

“We're okay, Dear!” Rarity called backed. “Just finished the mission without us.”

“Okay!” Scootaloo yelled.

“Guys,” Terra began to say, “I think we've gotta...”

“Jump!” They all yelled as the airship slams violently into another enemy airship. Hielo, Fluttershy, Pinkie, Scootaloo, Blitz, Ar, Golden Rod, Lunar and Terra land below, onto another airship. Lunar then uses a spell to shield themselves falling debris.

==================================================================

At the Fire Nation Plaza, which is where the Fire Lord is coroneted, Azula is kneeling down on the plaza steps. She is wearing Fire Lord robes with her armor underneath. Standing behind her are Fire Sages, one begins to hold the headpiece over her head. “By decree of Phoenix King Ozia, I now crown you Fire Lord...” But the sage suddenly pauses and looks ahead.

Azula then turns her head to face him. “What are you waiting for?! Do it!” A somewhat annoyed Azula said.

She then sees a chariot in the distance coming closer, and lands in the plaza courtyard. Zuko, Agua, Rainbow, Applejack and Shining are in the chariot. Zuko then jumps out. “Sorry, but you're not gonna become Fire Lord today. I am.” Zuko said to her sister.

Azula just laughs. “You're hilarious.” She said to her older brother.

“And you're going down.” Rainbow said as she and Agua take to the air.

The Fire Sage is just about to crown Azula the new Fire Lord, regardless of what the four have just said, until Azula signals with her hoof for him to stop. “Wait. You want to be Fire Lord?” Azula asked her brother. “Fine. Let's settle this. Just you and me, brother. The showdown that was always meant to be. Agni Kai!”

“You're on.” A serious Zuko said. A sly smile then appears on Azula's lips.

“Whut in tarnation are ya doin'?!” Applejack asked.

“She's playing you. She knows she can't take all four of us, so she's trying to separate us.” Shining pointed out.

“I know. But I can take her this time.” Zuko said to them.

“But even you admitted to your uncle that you would need help facing Azula.” Rainbow pointed out.

“There's something off about her; I can't explain it but she's slipping.” Zuko said, which is when the other three notice that Azula looks like she belongs in an insane asylum. “And this way, no one else has to get hurt.” The five then nod in understanding. A bit later, Zuko is kneeling on one end, while Azula is kneeling on the other end of the courtyard.

The two then stand up, with Azula taking off her Fire Lord garments. “I'm sorry it has to end this way, brother.” Azula said, slightly sarcastic.

“No you're not.” Zuko said as he gets into his stance. Azula then smiles, and assumes an awkward fighting stance. She spins and sends a sudden blast of blue fire toward Zuko. Zuko brings his hoofs up and jumps forward, bringing his legs down in front of him. He bends a flame in each hoof and they emerge. He sends the fire toward Azula. The two walls of fire, blue colliding with red, take form. As the wall begins to die, Azula leaps up on a jet of fire and kicks her back legs forward, sending a wave of fire from her hoofs during each of her three spinning kicks.

==================================================================

In Geo Firma, Fire’ and Twilight land on top of a rock, but they suddenly leap away to be blocking and pushed by a blast of fire emerging from Ozia. The Fire Lord then attacks again, sending a wave of fire from a downward kick. The two jump to another rock to avoid the attack, and Twilight picks up a small part of the rock using her magic and sends it toward Ozia, but he dodges the attack by sending a blast of fire out of his hoof. Fire’ and Twilight leap to the top of another rock to avoid the attack, then leap to land near a waterfall. Ozia follows them there, sending yet another fire blast toward the two love birds.

Fire’ then uses his firebending to extinguishing the fire, causing Ozia to jump back. He flies back toward the two, using fire rockets from his hoofs. He shoots a large burst of fire at Fire,’ but he and Twilight jump to the top of the waterfall to avoid the attack. Ozia rockets up after them, and flips forward, shooting fire from both hoofs. The two jump to the other side of the slope to escape the hot flames. Ozia flies over to them, using his fire jets shooting from his feet, but Twilight lifts a boulder into the air.

She then jumps away, only to stop Ozia for a second, distracted by the boulder. He continues to chase the elements of Magic and Fire, shooting at them with his fiery hoofs. Fire’ then spins around, creating a fire tornado shield that blocks him from the Ozia’s flames. He lands on the side of a rock pillar, and quickly scoots to the other side, only to see Ozia shooting another stream of fire at him. The two leap to another pillar, then Fire’ firebends both him and Twilight back to the first pillar. He then uses his magic to cut the top of the pillar off, sending it toward Ozia.

To both Fire’ and Twilight’s surprise, Ozia is right behind them, and he sends a ball of fire toward the two. Fire’ raises his hoof to block himself and Twilight from the surprise attack as he is pushed and hits the side of a rock, falling to the ground in pain. Twilight then teleports herself to Fire’ as Ozia flies toward him again, and lands on the same ledge the two are on. Ozia then swings his arm at Fire’ and Twilight, sending a wave of fire toward them, but the two jump away in time. Fire’ then suddenly performs a flip backwards to shoot a fireball at Ozia from the air.

Ozia jumps aside to avoid Fire's blast, then takes out his gun and shoots lightning. Twilight is grasping on to the side of a rock, seemingly terrified. Just when the lightning is about to strike her, Fire’ gets in front of her and begins to redirect the lightning, pointing it toward the terrified Ozia. But Fire’ hesitates to strike him, and so he sends the bolt into the orange sky instead. He then falls to the ground, exhausted from straining to hold the energy from the lightning.

Ozia then smiles, sensing he has the upper-hand, and performs a spin-kick of fire toward the two. They are thrown off the rock and are falling toward the water below. Fire’ then tilts himself and Twilight up with his magic. After the two hit the water, they see that Ozia is rocketing toward them.

==================================================================

Back to Zuko and Azula, their orange and blue flames are blasting toward each other. One building is now on fire, and Zuko he punches a powerful blast of fire toward his sister. His stream of orange blends with a blast of blue fire. Zuko continues shooting fire while being pushed back by the blue flames colliding with his. Zuko then turns his hoof around in order to steady himself as a powerful fire blast streams from his hoof.

Suddenly, Zuko and Azula stop their attacks. The scared and confused Azula turns to find that Zuko's strong attack has caused the plaza behind her to be smothered in flames. She leaps forward with a blast of fire that she swings at Zuko. Just as he is about to be hit, Zuko thrusts his hoofs outward to create a wall of fire that slices the blue flame. The flames eventually die down as Azula, who is crouching on the ground, as she is heavily panting, and then she grits her teeth and narrows her eyes.

A determined look flushes over Azula as Zuko punches two large fireballs toward Azula, and the fire emerges to create one massive blast. Azula's now fear-filled eyes are reflecting with orange from the oncoming attack. She narrowly dodges them using a jet of blue fire. She then flies forward into the air, using jets of fire from her hoofs. She then thrusts her hoofs forward creating two blue fire blasts.

Zuko is now crouching with his front legs outward, blue and orange flames swirling around him. Azula is flying toward him as she swerves to the right to dodge Zuko's last blast. Azula shoots fire at Zuko and circles him, a trail of blue fire coming from her hoofs. Zuko quickly defends himself by creating a shield of fire for protection. He then tries to attack Azula, who is still circling him, but she is too fast. Zuko then stops firing at Azula, crouches, and begins spinning and kicking immense and powerful flames from his back legs. Azula is flying forward when she sees the attack, she tries to stop, but it is too late. Azula falls and rolls forward onto the ground. In pain, she picks herself up. Her hair is now undone and she is extremely angry. Zuko then notices that she has her lightning gun. “No lightning today?! What's the matter?” An angry Zuko said to his sister as he quickly assuming his lightning redirection stance. “Afraid I'll redirect it?!”

“Oh, I'll show you lightning.” Azula said as she takes it out, but her stance is irregular and off. Zuko then inhales and exhales deeply. He assumes his stance and prepares to redirect whatever lightning may come his way. As he is doing so, Azula looks to the left and sees Agua, Rainbow, Applejack and Shining Armor standing by as backup. Suddenly light begins flickering as Azula begins charging her lightning gun. She finishes charging, but she is not glancing toward Zuko, but to the left of him. Azula, still in her stance and ready to strike, smiles and fires directly at Agua, Rainbow, Applejack and Shining.

Then go all slow motion as lightning is emerging from Azula’s gun. Zuko gets a shocked face as he turns to the left and runs, trying to get in between Agua, Rainbow, Applejack, Shining and the lightning. Agua has dumbfounded face as the lightning gets closer. Suddenly, Zuko jumps up, in between Agua, Rainbow, Applejack, Shining and the lightning. “No!” He yelled as he extends his hoof out in order to redirect it, but fails in doing so, therefore absorbing it. Light flashes as is Zuko in midair. Zuko then hits the ground, the lightning leaving his body through his other leg as the redirected lightning blasts into the air. Zuko, lying on the ground, is twitching from the electricity seeping through his body. He rolls onto his back, groaning and holding his wounded chest.

Agua, Rainbow, Applejack and Shining then run up to him to see if he’s all right. “Zuko!” Agua yelled as she takes her bending water, only for Shining to stop her.

“We got bigger problems!” Shining said as he points to a crazed Azula, hunched over and swaying from side to side. She then starts laughing maniacally and runs forward, intent on killing them.

==================================================================

Meanwhile, Ozia is rocketing forward to a terrified Fire’ and Twilight. They reach the shore, stumbling forward, with Ozia not too far behind. Ozia then reaches him, and Twilight and Fire’ both create a shield around themselves for protection. Ozia, right over them, laughs as he looks at the scared couple. “You're weak, just like the rest of your people!” Ozia mocked.

“Even though Abysus wasn't destroyed by the Fire Nation, they did not deserve to exist in this world ... in my world! Prepare to join them. Prepare to die!” Ozia then thrusts both hoofs into Twilight and Fire’s rock shield, releasing a powerful fire blast while doing so. With the two still trapped inside the rock, still shielding themselves with their eyes closed as to protect their eyes from the orange light. Ozia then throws fire in another blast against the two’s shield. Ozia then jumps back, lands, then rises back up and sends two powerful fire blasts them.

Chapter 17, Sozin's Comet Part 4: Avatar Firebrand

The Elements of Nature
Book 3: 气 (Air)
Chapter 17, Sozin's Comet Part 4: Avatar Firebrand

Fire Lord Ozia is still trying to get through Twilight and Fire’s shield, getting nothing. “Come on out, Fire Avatar and Element of Magic! You two can't hide in there forever!” He yelled as he continues to blast fire at the bubble.

==================================================================

At the airship fleet, Hielo, Fluttershy, Scootaloo, Blitz, Ar, Golden Rod, Lunar and Terra are running on top of one of three airships, but stop when they reach the rudder. “Terra, metalbend the rudder so it's jammed in a turning position.” Hielo told her. “The ship will spiral and slam into the others.”

“Got it!” Terra said as she prepares to metalbend. She them moves past them out-of-the-way, then spits into her hoofs, much to Rarity’s disgust. Terra then metalbends the rudder and the new Imperial Firebenders inside the ship crash into the wall as the ship crashes into the others.

“Have I ever mentioned how sweet it is that you invented metalbending?” Blitz said.

“You could stand to mention it more.” A pleased Terra said. A firebender then comes out of the ship and fires at them. They fall of the side and Hielo uses his sword in an attempt to stop his fall with Terra while Scootaloo and Lunar grab Golden Rod while Fluttershy and Blitz get Pinkie and Rarity while Ar floats down to a platform. The others hit the platforms hard, with Hielo breaking both his leg and wing.

“My leg and wing!” Hielo cried out in pain. “Hang on Terra!”

“Aye aye, Captain.” Terra said as two firebenders come out on the platforms next to them. One of them is about to shoot them off, but Hielo throws his boomerang at him. He then kicks his sword in to his hoof and throws it at the other one's platform, slicing it in half.

“Bye, sword.” Hielo said as he watches his sword fall to the ground a mile below. Some more soldiers and firebenders them come out, surrounding them. Not even Lunar can take away all their lives without one of them taking his. “I don't think boomerang's coming back, guys.” Hielo said. “It looks like this is the end.” Terra then starts crying, but then the firebenders and soldiers run away. The airship gets struck by a different one and all of them fall onto it before Hielo jumps down himself, hurting his leg and wing again in the process, and falls over in pain.

“How did that happen?” Terra asked. “Did your boomerang come back?”

“No, Apple Bloom, Pinkie, Rarity and Sweetie Belle did.” Hielo said while looking up at them as they are riding on the airship.

==================================================================

Ozia is still blasting Twilight and Fire.’ He blasts at them a few more times and rises up to fly towards the bubble to then shoot an enormous, continuous blast of fire at it. Ozia steps back to charge another intense attack causing Twilight and Fire's shield to be disappear and the protects themselves as best they can but are pushed back by the force of the attack, crashing into a rock pillar.

A large, sharp stone then pierces Fire’ right below his waist, but the scar on his back is also hit with a point of the rock, causing him to flashback to when he was shot by lightning. Ozia then slowly approaches Twilight and Fire,’ who are covered by a pile of rubble. Twilight opens her eyes and lights the air pocket she and Fire’ are in. “That can’t be good for the...” But she stops in mid-sentence when she sees Fire’s condition. “Firebrand, NO!” She said as she removes the sharp rock from Fire’s side.

“Fire,’ please, wake up.” Twilight said, getting no response as Fire's breathing begins to die, along with him. “No, Fire’!” Twilight then breaks down into tears on Fire’s chest, next to the orb. “I didn't even get a chance to tell you the news. You, me, everypony would have been so happy.” Twilight then begins to scream as Fire’ stops breathing altogether.

==================================================================

In a strange place, Fire’ sees that he’s not in the Spirit World, but it’s not the real world either. “Where am I?” He asked, getting echoes for a response. “Am I dead?”

“We have been watching you...” A voice called back, as Fire’ covers his face to see the source. “...For a long, long time.”

Fire’ then sees severely creatures, some made of metal while others are hydras, dragons, Alicorns, Unicorns, even a few creatures he couldn't recognized. “You have fought for the word,” one of them said, “with courage and sacrifice, the virtues of a leader. A leader worthy of our secret. The Element of Fire and the Element of Energy are not found, they are earned. Return now to your fight, use the sixth element to merge the Elements of Harmony and Nature together and end this war. It is, and always has been, your destiny.” The creatures then raise their arms or legs as the bright light intensifies.

==================================================================

Fire’ then opens his eyes and gasps deeply, much to the relief of Twilight. “Fire’! Your okay!” She said, but before Fire’ could say anything, Twilight kisses him deeply. “Fire,’ now what?” Twilight asked after they stopped, knowing that Ozia doesn't know what happened.

“I have an idea, but you have to trust me.” Fire’ said while holding Twilight hoof. Twilight then nods as the sixth element, The Element of Energy, glows.

Outside, Ozia stops right above the pile and leans forward. “Come on out, love birds. You're about to be...” But before he could finished, a colorful glowing hoof pops out and grabs his goatee as a Alicorn like figure, taller than Celestia, comes out. Ozia tries to firebend at the Alicorn, but he/she merely knocks his hoof away. He/she then creates a blast of air, sending Ozia flying backwards.

Ozia then crashes into a pillar of rock and falls down to the ground. As the dust clears he looks up at the Alicorn in the sky with a sphere of air around him/her. The Alicorn then proceeds to roar and creates fire out of his/her mouth and hoofs. He/she creates a massive gust of air causing Ozia to cover himself as he groans in struggle. Pillars of earth disintegrate and move towards the Alicorn as other pieces of rock rise up from the ground to surround him/her, while lightning from the clouds above comes crashing down and swirl around the Alicorn.

Water also rises towards the Alicorn as he/she creates a ring of fire around himself/herself. The earth begins to create a ring inside the air sphere as the water continues to rise up and form another ring inside the earth sphere along with the lightning. As Ozia watches, he covers his head with his legs as the Alicorn is now surrounded by a ring of water, a ring of earth, a sphere of air, a ring of lightning and a ring of fire.

==================================================================

At the Liberation of Ba Sing Se, Bumi rises out of the ground with earthbending. He turns around as Fire Nation tanks appear and fire on him, but he blocks it with earthbending. He lowers the barrier smiling. He then shoots rocks at the holes where they shoot fire. He then uses earthbending to shoot them into the air and they land piled on top of one another.

Iroh is at the palace and burns the Fire Nation flag on Ba Sing Se Royal Palace, showing the Geo Firma insignia, a square inscribed with a circle, at the center of which is a much smaller square.

==================================================================

The Alicorn charges at Ozia and them blows him off his Elemental Sphere after they hit a rock pillar. Ozia then flies away from the Alicorn, who uses earthbending to shoot machine gun-like earth bullets at him while chasing the fleeing Ozia.

==================================================================

At the Agni Kai, Zuko tries to get up, but he is too hurt and he falls down. Azula launches a fire blast at Agua, Rainbow, Applejack and Shining. She laughs and shoots her lightning gun which Agua dodges. Zuko attempts to get back up but is too weak as Azula shoots another lightning bolt. Agua turns to watch as Azula lands on a roof nearby.

She begins charging her gun for another lightning attack. “I'd really rather our family physician look after Little Zuzu if you don't mind.” Azula said as she fires at the four again. But they manage to dodge them all and hide behind a column nearby. “Zuzu, you don't look so good!” Azula said as she shoots at the four again.

“What are we gonna do?” Rainbow asked.

“Agua, look down there.” Shining said while pointing to a grad. Agua looks and sees plenty of water for her to bend. Agua then bends it onto the roof, but Azula has moved. Azula comes from behind them and they flee. She uses the nearby water channel to make ice for them to slide on as Azula chases after them and fires another blast of fire.

Azula unleashes a large burst of fire but the 4 Equestrians manage to get away. Agua gets off her part of the ice path but trips on a grate and sees some water below. She looks up and grabs some chains hanging from the wall as Azula approaches the grates. “There you are, filthy peasants!” Azula yelled.

After a brief stare down, Agua uses multiple water whips to force Azula onto the grate. Azula is about to shoot her lightning gun at her when Agua freezes them both with the water under the grate. Agua then melts the water around her and chains Azula's hoof together tied to the grate and takes the gun. Agua then bends the water back into the grate. After catching her breathe she tightens the chains to make sure Azula can't get away then rushes to heal Zuko.

Agua then rolls Zuko on to his back and begins healing him as Rainbow, AJ, and Shining rush to their sides. Zuko opens his eyes, feeling the pain lessen, and smiles weakly at Agua, who smiles back as a she sheds a tear. “Thank you, Water Avatar.” He said.

“I think were the ones who should be the one thanking you.” Agua said as Azula watches. Rainbow then helps Zuko up when they see Azula beginning to cry uncontrollably and breathes fire, much to their horror, even thou she can't hurt them.

==================================================================

Back to Geo Firma, the Alicorn is still chasing Phoenix King Ozia. The Alicorn uses earthbending to move two pillars in front of Ozia, who recoils and flies away. He/she then sends a wave of water at Ozia, causing him to crash to the ground. As Ozia recovers and looks up, the Alicorn bursts through the pillar he landed near. Ozia then retreats backwards and shoots a stream of fire at the Alicorn.

The Alicorn drops to the ground and narrowly missing Ozia who propels himself away with fire from his hoofs. The Alicorn then rises and begins following the fleeing Ozia again. Ozia lands on a pillar and launches a wide fire blast at the Alicorn, who uses earthbending to move two large pillars to protect himself. He/she then breaks and lets the pillars fall as Ozia flies away again as the Alicorn unleashes multiple blasts of fire towards Ozia, who manages to dodge them. Ozia lands on the side of a pillar and launchers three similar fire blasts at the approaching Alicorn, who uses air and water to disperse them.

He/she then fires a strong blast of air at Ozia, disintegrating the pillar he stood on but he manages to get away. He/she then continues to chase him as Ozia looks back, realizing that the Alicorn is catching up. The Alicorn than moves his front legs and wings in a circular motion causing water to wrap it self around Ozia's leg and up to his outstretched arm, whipping him round then slamming him on top of a pillar. The Alicorn them flies forwards and earthbends Ozia's hoofs to the ground. “Fire Lord Ozia, you and your forefathers have devastated the balance of the world to nearly to point of beyond repair, and now you shall pay the ultimate price!” The Alicorn said with several dozen voices.

The Alicorn then prepares his/her final attack, combining all six elements together. But at the last second, the Alicorn’s blue glowing eyes suddenly turn to a normal pony’s eyes, mainly Fire’s, and he/she splits in two, one half turning into Twilight while the other turns into Firebrand. Twilight has the Elements of Harmony on while Fire’ has the Elements of Nature. Fire’ then uses his magic to free Ozia. “No, I'm not gonna end it like this.” Fire’ firmly said as he turns around, with Twilight watching Ozia.

“Even with all the power in the world, you are still weak!” Ozia said as he charges to attack, but FIre’ enters the Avatar State and stamps down and lifts a foot up, dragging a pillar of earth along with him, deflecting Ozia's attack and binding him inside the rock.

He then circles Ozia and proceeds to bind his other hoof as Ozia attempts to attack again. He pulls the rocks down into the earth slightly, causing Ozia to kneel. Ozia attempts one final fire breath attack but Fire’ uses airbending to stop him and exits the Avatar State and puts one hoof on Ozia's forehead, and one on his chest. Fire’ then remembers what the lion turtle said to him as he closes his eyes.

==================================================================

“In the era before it was lost, we bent not just the elements but also the energy within ourselves.” The lion turtle said as he places his paw in a similar position to Fire's hoofs on Ozia using its claws. The claws then begin to glow green light along with the Lion Turtles eyes. Afterwards, the Lion Turtle gives Fire’ the Elements of Fire and Energy.

==================================================================

Fire’ eyes then begin to glow white along with Ozia’s as he remembers everything else the lion turtle said. “To bend another's energy, your own spirit must be unbendable or you will be corrupted and destroyed.” Eventually, Fire’ and Ozia’s eyes return to normal as Fire’ enters the Avatar State and frees Ozia.

Ozia then falls to the ground, and attempts to rise and attack but falls back exhausted and unable to bend. “What?” Ozia said, out of breath. “What did you do to me?”

“What did you do to him?” Twilight asked as she places the Elements of Harmony and Nature in her saddle bag.

“I took away your firebending and magic.” Fire’ answered, shocking Twilight because Fire’ found a way to take away ones magic without them dying. “You can't use either to hurt or threaten anyone else ever again.” Fire’ then steps forward and looks towards the sea as fire spreads on the land below. Fire’ then breathes deeply and enters the Avatar State, meaning that he has control of the ability now.

Fire’ then begins to bend the water from the ocean below to extinguish the fires. After the fires have been put out, Fire’ lowers the water back to its normal level and leaves the Avatar State. Twilight then walks up to him and leans her head against his as Owlowiscious returns and lands on Twilight’s back. They see the comet flying away as Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Blitz, Ar, Golden Rod, Lunar and Terra leave their stolen airship. Lunar is helping Hielo walk over to the two. “You did it!” Scootaloo said.

“You should've seen yourselves, it was amazing! You were all like *bang-bang-bang, flosh* and the Fire Lord was all like *Ahhh, runaway!*” Hielo said.

“So did ya, you knows ... finish th' job?” Apple Bloom asked as she points to Ozia, who opens his eyes.

“I'm still alive.” He said, scaring the young Earth Pony mare.

“I learned there was another way to defeat him and restore balance.” Fire’ said. “I took his bending and magic away.”

“Wow!” A surprised Blitz, Terra, Pinkie, Lunar, Golden Rod, Scootaloo, Rarity, Sweetie Belle, and Apple Bloom said. “Who taught you that?” Terra asked.

“A giant lion turtle.” Fire’ answered.

“You have the craziest adventures when you disappear.” Terra said while smiling to Fire’ as Hielo limps over to Ozia.

“Well, look at you, buster. Now that your firebending and magic's gone I guess we should call you the Loser Lord.” Hielo said.

“I am the Phoenix King!” Ozia weakly said before flopping down to the ground.

“Oh, sorry. Didn't mean to offend you, Phoenix King Of Getting His Butt Whooped.” Terra said.

“Yeah! Or howsabout Kin' of Th' ... Guys Who ... Don't Win?” Apple Bloom said.

“Leave the nicknames to us, honey.”

==================================================================

Three days later, one day after the comet left, Zuko is in the Fire Nation Royal Palace, and is having trouble putting on his robe. “You need some help with that?” Zuko recognizes the voice and turns around and sees...

“Mai! You're okay! They let you out of prison?”

“My uncle pulled some strings.” Mai said as she walks up to Zuko. “And it doesn't hurt when the new Fire Lord is your boyfriend.”

“So does this mean you don't hate me anymore?”

“I think it means I actually kind of like you.” Mai said with a blush. The two kiss, but Mai quickly breaks it up. “But don't ever break up with me again.” She said in a series tone, but she smiles and the two hug.

==================================================================

Outside in the Fire Nation Coronation Plaza, ponies and other creatures from across the globe, mainly the world leaders who are part of the UN, have gathered to see the coronation. In the plaza, Twilight, her friends, Golden Rod, the CMC, some royal guards, Celestia, Luna, Lunar, Cadence and Shining are waiting for it to start. Agua walks up to Rarity, who has a bag full of cloths for the Avatars. “They ready yet, Rarity?” She asked the white Unicorn.

“Of course, dear.” Rarity said as she gives the bag to Agua, right when the Ice Knights walk up.

“Look at that getup!” Rainbow said with a laugh.

Agua then walks up to them. “There's my favorite knights!” She said. The Ice Knights have helmets in the shape of a wolf's head and have leg braces and greaves, and their faces are painted, each one different. Hielo’s helmet is black while the others are light brown. The rest of the uniform is in a variety of blues and whites. “I have to admit, I kind of missed the face paint.”

“Thats what they look like most of the time!?” Rainbow said, trying not to laugh.

“So how does it feel to be in uniform again?” Agua asked.

Ty Lee then appears from behind then, in armor. “It feels great!”

At this, Rainbow and Applejack get in between Hielo and Ty Lee. “Careful, Hielo! Ty Lee is pretending to be a high raking warrior again.” Rainbow said while pointing at Ty Lee, only for Agua to stop her and AJ.

“It's okay. She's one of us now.” Hielo said, shocking the two.

“Yeah, the girl members and I really bonded in prison. And after a few chi blocking lessons, they said I could join their group. We're going to be best friends forever.” Ty Lee said as she hugs two other knight and they all smile.

“I should get inside.” Agua said, before heading in.

==================================================================

In the Royal Palace, Zuko is walking down to hall to where the Avatars are waiting, with Ar meditating while the others are putting on the outfits Rarity made. “I can't believe three years ago my purpose in life was hunting you all down. And now...”

“And now we're friends.” Agua finished.

“Yeah, we are friends.” Zuko said.

“I can't believe three years ago I was still a traveling sideshow. The world's so different to me now.” Fire’ said.

“And it's gonna be even more different.” Zuko added. “It will take time, but we'll rebuild it together.” They then all hug and go outside. The crowd cheers as Zuko come outside. “Please. The real heroes are the Avatars.” Zuko said as Fire,’ Agua, Terra, Blitz and Ar step out and stand beside Zuko. “Today this war is finally over! I promised my uncle that I would restore the honor of the Fire Nation. And I will. The road ahead of us is challenging. Two-thousand years of fighting has left the world scarred and divided in hundreds of ways. But with the Avatars’ help, we can get it back on the right path and begin a new era of love and peace.” Zuko then kneels down, preparing to be crowd Fire Lord as a Fire Sage approaches with the headpiece.

“All hail Fire Lord Zuko!” The sage said as he places the headpiece on Zuko as the crowd cheers.

“Twilight.” Celestia said to her student. “Once we return to Equestria with the Avatars, I will invite you all to the Grand Galloping Galla.” She said, causing a smile to appear on Twilight’s face.

==================================================================

Later that day, Zuko is walking to the Fire Nation Prison Tower. Inside, he heads for Ozia's cell and enters. “I should count myself lucky. The new Fire Lord has graced me with his presence in my lowly prison cell.” Ozia sarcastically said.

“You should count yourself lucky that the Fire Avatar spared your life.”

“Hmph.”

“Banishing me was the best thing you could have done for my life. It put me on the right path. Perhaps your time in here could do the same for you.”

“Why are you really here?”

“Because you're going to tell me something.” Zuko said as he leans closer to Ozia. “Where is my mother?”

Chapter 18, The Grand Galloping Galla 2

The Elements of Nature
Book 3: 气 (Air)
Chapter 18, The Grand Galloping Galla 2

Back in Canterlot, Rarity Unicorn was happily tending her temporary boutique (which is the hotel room she stayed in during ‘Sweet and Elite’) the next month, cropping a new dress she was designing for herself for the Grand Galloping Gala. "Oh yes, Rarity..." She said to herself as she carefully placed gems on the waves of ribbon trailing off the dress. "This year's dress will knock them dead! The prince will feel so absolutely terrible for treating me the way he did!"

The door opened and a female spoke up, "Hey Rarity. Plotting against the prince again?"

Rarity then quickly turns around and sees “Twilight!” Rarity said, surprised to see the purple Unicorn. “Why are you here?”

“I need a dress for the Galla.” Twilight answered.

“Oh, right, of course.” Rarity said as she begins to measure Twilight with measuring tapes and all her other tools, when she notices something odd. “Twilight, why is your stomach-” But Rarity stops in mid-sentence when she realizes the way Twilight has been acting lately. “Twilight ... are you ...?”

“Yes. Yes I am.” Twilight proudly answered.

“Oh, how wonderful!” Rarity cried. “Have you told Fire’ yet or your family yet?”

“No. I’m waiting until the Galla.” Twilight said as Rarity measures her leg.

“Oh I bet Firebrand will be completely shock upon hearing that.”

“I hope he is.” Twilight said as she takes a cookie from her saddle bag. “I think I gain five pounds due to eating a little too much.”

==================================================================

After Twilight left with her new dress, Rarity went back to work on her dress for the Galla, which is two days away, when... ”Hey, Rarity. Can I talk to you?” A male voice said.

“Firebrand?” Rarity said as she opens the door. “Why are you here?”

“I need a tux for the Galla.”

“Of course.” Rarity said.

“I also need something else, which is where you come in.”

“What is it?” Rarity asked.

“I need a ring.” At this, Rarity almost faints.

“A ring!? For what?” Fire’ then whispers something in Rarity’s ear. “Thats just splendid. When do you plane to do it”

“At the Galla.”

==================================================================

Two days later, Twilight is in her tower putting on her dress for the Galla. Due to Twilight being a fangirl of the princesses of Equestria, she asked Rarity that the accessories are meant to tribute and imitate them. Since Celestia's jewelry is made of gold and Luna's is silver, Twilight took a step down in humility and wears bronze. The necklace she has bears the emblem of the sun and the moon, and it has a little wing cape holder which symbolizes the Alicorns. She also has a hair pice that looks like her cutie mark. She also has Arabian sleeves and a cape that looks like the night sky and has a big star and two red color line going across it.

“Spike, if this doesn't cause Fire’s jaw to drop, I don’t know what will.” She said as she admires herself in the mirror.

“I’m just glad I’m not going this time.” Spike said as he cleans up a little bit. The two then hear the door bell ring. “I’ll get it.” Spike said, looking for an excuse to stop cleaning. Before Twilight could object, Spike has already made it down the satires and opens to door. “Hey Fire.’ Nice tux.” Spike said when he sees Fire’ in a charcoal black tux with orange sleeves and a flame red tie.

“Thanks. Is Twilight ready?” Fire’ asked, only to see the most beautiful mare in the world walk down the stairs toward him.

“I am.” Twilight said as she kisses Fire’ on the cheek. “Spike, make sure you don’t sneeze and burn this place down.” Twilight said as she and Fire’ leave for the Galla.

“Hey, since when have I ever burn...” Spike began to say until he remembers when he first meet Owlowiscious.

==================================================================

At the Galla building, Shining, Cadence, Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie, Rainbow, Rarity, Blitz, Ar, Terra, Hielo and Agua are waiting for Fire’ and Twilight. “Dude, where could they be?” Blitz asked.

“They should be here soon.” Rarity said, knowing what they both plane to do that night. Applejack's dress is probably the one that took more elbow grease then the others Rarity had to do. She tested many possibilities of color and shape before coming up with a result that worked. Not girly, not Fru-fruy, not tomboy either and yet elegant and formal, at least for Rarity, still a bit too fru fru. Rarity even named it ‘New Frontier,’ which AJ liked.

It is slightly apple themed in the hair ornaments and mostly represents the "wild west" and "Strong girl" idea. Rarity made it to purposely let the back legs move and buck at she pleases, because Applejack believe that she would feel a lot better in formal attire if she would able to do that. The colors and embroidered details were based on Tornado, the horse from "El Zorro" the dark cloth of the gown brings out the blond of her mane (which is styled to cover one eye). The legs are ornamented, but also reinforced and protected. This gown is meant to be elegant, but also practical due to Applejack being Applejack.

The core of Fluttershy’s dress, which Rarity calls the ‘Aurora,’ is wrapped around the body like a silky cocoon, to be followed by the fabric that falls down in butterfly wings shape, blending with her own Pegasus wings. The mane and tail, which are showing, are sprinkled with small little white flowers (Babies Breaths) with a Lilly to complete the effect, relating the ensemble to nature. All "haute couture" as she seems to prefer, yet very modest and very simple (Rarity thought that Photo Finish was right when she stated that her dresses should follow that tendency). It has a strong resemblance to the Aurora moth.

Rarity calls Pinkie’s dress ‘Chocolate Rain,’ due to the body of the dress is based on a cotton candy cloud with a chocolate cascade falling from it. As she seemed to prefer on her first gala dress; Rarity added streamer ornaments for the legs and sprinkled confetti over her mane, which is arranged in a French style. Rarity also added a jewel hair clip that is shaped like a set of balloons, to honor her cutie mark. The front of the dress would be the equivalent of a bare shoulder cut, the cloth there is slightly sparkly and festive. How could it be any other way? After all, this pony loves to parteeeey!

Rainbow’s dress is called ‘Morning Dew.’ It includes pure white feathers to surround the idea of being involved with flying and decorated with pearls, which look like dewdrops. It also has a big sapphire in a silver armor-like breastplate, as heart of the sky. The whole design is meant to be light like air, yet somehow, cozy, like a cloud.

Rarity’s ‘Diamond Dust’ is the best one yet, with not even her finding any words on how to describe it. It follows the concept of diamond dust floating in the wind. Rarity wanted to have a very elegant, almost royalty look. Rarity remembers those snobby Canterlot Unicorns saying that her creations were a little "country" and she can’t wait to see their faces now.

Shining is wearing what he wore on his wedding day while Cadence has a gold dress thats sorta like her weeding dress. Blitz and Ar just have casual wear on, with Ar being in his monk robe. Agua and Hielo have traditional Pegasus City clothing while Terra has a white dress with gold lace. Eventually, Twilight and Fire’ arrive and they enter the Galla. Fire’ and Twilight are the last to enter and see that some changes have been made. First: the music is more jazz like. Second: there are more Pegasi and Earth Ponies now. And third: Luna is dancing with Lunar Eclipse! Shining, Cadence, Fire’ and Twilight make their way to the dace floor and, well, dance. Fire’ then spines Twilight around and catches her.

The four of them then head for a table to get a drink. “I didn't know you could dance like that.” Night Light said as he and his wife, Twilight Velvet, watch his daughter, her boyfriend and his son and daughter-in-law take some punch from the table.

“My dad taught me.” Fire’ said as he takes a drink.

“You know, you really don’t talks about him much.” Twilight Sparkle said as she drinks some punch.

“I guess your right.” Fire’ said. “I still remember him like he only died yesterday.”

“What was he like?” Cadence asked.

“Well, he was definitely fun-loving. And whenever I was sad, he tried and cheer me up, which always worked.” Fire’ said as he tells them one of those times.

==================================================================

On a sunny day in Abysus, Firebrands father, Phoenix, is in the forges kitchen making some kind of cake.“But the true secret, is in the gooey center.” Phoenix said as he lifts the fruity center of the cake up with his magic, which is also orang like Fire’s. He then sees his son, Fire,’ is looking out at the street where other ponies, mostly Unicorns, are shopping and the foals are playing. “My cake making technique isn't the only thing on your mind, is it Firebrand?” Phoenix said in a calm, soothing and understanding voice.

“It’s my special talent.” A downcast Fire’ said to his father as he walks over to him. “I’m afraid of what might happen if anyone other than you and Golden Rod were to find out.”

“Don’t worry. Before your mom died, I promised her that I won’t let anything happen to our son.” Phoenix said. “Now, are you going to help me with these cakes,” Phoenix began to say in a bright, happy tone as Fire’ smiles lovingly at his father, “or not?”

“All right.” Fire’ said as he helps his father move the four cakes. The place each one on catapults. Fire’ then aims each one and uses his bending to move some fire from the oven.

“One.” Phoenix said as fire splits the open flame into four separate ones. “Two.” Phoenix said as Fire’ sets fire the ropes that keep the catapults from firing. “Three!” As soon as Phoenix said that, the catapults send the fruit cakes flying high in the air, disappearing in the clouds. The flying cakes are heading for four monk, each meditating quietly between some trees.

Suddenly the cakes drop out of the sky and each of the monks is hit on the head by one of these colorful desserts. One of the monks topples over upon impact. The moment the pies hit their heads, several phoenixes and gold phoenixes appear and start to stuff their faces. Fire’ and Phoenix than laugh loudly at the scene. Fire’ is clutching his stomach while Phoenix is leaning on the railing of the balcony. They both move back from the railing when they are done laughing. “Your aim has improved greatly, my son.” Phoenix said, full of admiration and love while caressing Fire's head when his stomach groans.

“I guess I skipped breakfast this morning ... again.” Fire’ said.

“Don’t worry.” Phoenix said as he goes to the oven. “I have another cake, with a cherry filling.” He said as he takes out a large fruit cake and pops up a red filling with his magic.

“Dad, you're the best.” Fire’ said as he takes the cake and goes to the kitchen, followed by his father.

==================================================================

Fire’ then sheds a single tear at the happy thought. “I still miss him.” Fire’ said as he puts up his glass.

“Wow, Fire.’ I had no idea you and your dad were so close.” Twilight said.

“Yeah.” Fire’ said to her. “I now understand that grieving over him won’t let me move on. I got a new family now.” Fire’ said as he wipes away the tear. “That reminds me.” Fire’ then takes Twilight to the far side of the Galla Room and kneels down. “Twilight, since we’ve first meet, three years ago, you've been the one closest to me. And,” Fire’ then takes out a small red box and opens it, showing a ring that has gems in the shape and color as Twilight’s cutie mark. “Will you marry me?”

At first, Twilight is shocked, but she slowly smiles and begins to cry. “Yes! Of course yes!” The two then hug as Night Light, Twilight Velvet, Shining and Candace walk over.

“Did you?” Night Light asked his daughter.

“Yes!” Twilight said as she takes the ring. The entire family then have a group hug as the happy couple hug. “I can’t wait to tell my friends!” Twilight said.

“Well, Rarity already knows.” Fire’ said to her. “Where do you think I got the ring from?” They than laugh as a servant offers them some wine, which they accept, except Twilight who gets some more punch.

“Good wine.” Shining said. He then notices that Twilight isn’t getting any wine. “Twilight, don’t you want some wine?” Shining asked his little sister.

“I would like some, but I can’t.” Twilight said as she walks up to Fire.’ “I’m pregnant.”

Now it’s not only Fire’s turn, but also Twilight entire family to look surprise. “You kidding me.” Fire’ said.

“No.” Twilight responded.

“You kidding me!” Fire’ said as he and Twilight hug.

“Dad, are you crying?” Shining asked Night Light, who is crying happy tears.

“I am. My little girl has finally grown up like her brother.” Night Light said as Twilight Velvet takes a handkerchief and wipes the tears away.

“Wait until Celestia finds out.” Twilight said.

Chapter 19, Time Lapse

The Elements of Nature
Book 3: 气 (Air)
Chapter 19, Time Lapse

Three months have past since the Galla, one month after the wedding. The wedding wen’t off without a hitch, unlike the royal wedding three years earlier. Rainbow used a sonic rainboom, Applejack and Golden Rod made the pastries and cake, Blitz helped to clear the sky, Agua made an ice sculpture, Pinkie was in charge of the party (of course), and (much to Twilight's carnage) Ar and Hielo were in charged of making everything perfect by Twilight’s standards. During the month after the wedding, Twilight and Fire’ have been receiving wedding presents from all their friends and family, one is a book called ‘Lost Spells of Star Swirl the Bearded,’ which Fire’ recognized from his dream after he woke up from his coma.

Eventually, after they got enough presents, Twilight and Fire’ are walking down the main street of Canterlot, side by side. Twilight's head was resting on Fire's shoulder as they trotted along as the duo made their way to the hospital. "I'm nervous, Fire’..." Twilight whispered suddenly as they neared the front entrance to the hospital.

"Hm?" Fire’ stopped and looked down at her face, which was suddenly filling with distraught. "What about?"

Twilight smiled nervously, "We’re gonna have a baby, Fire.’ I thought even you could put two and two together as to why I'm nervous."

Fire’ just chuckled, "Twiley..."

"I mean, what if I'm not ready to be a mom?" She started to panic a little. "What if I can't meet the needs of the baby?! What if it dies!? What if..."

"Twiley..." Fire’ stroked her mane once over to calm her down. "I'll be there to whole way..."

"B-b-but..." she sniffed sadly. "I never really thought myself to be, you know..." she waved her hoof in the air in a 'so-so' motion. "Mommy material..."

"And I never figured myself daddy material..." Fire’ then smiled and mimicked her. "But, that's what we have each other for, Twiley! We're here to help each other along!" They were silent for a minute as they both stared at the front door of the hospital. Twilight looked up at the sky, heaved a heavy sigh, and then turned her head up towards Fire's and smiled.

"I love you, you know that?" She grinned and nuzzled him.

"Me too..." He grinned back. "Now, c'mon! Let's go see whether it's a colt or a filly."

==================================================================

An hour later found Fire’ sitting in a chair in the waiting room on the second floor, reading an Equestrian news magazine, specifically an article about a American Earth Pony named Stark Jr, AKA Tony. Dr. Blaze Carousel had greeted them warmly upon entering the hospital and was overjoyed to hear the news of Twilight's pregnancy. Out of the kindness of his heart and 'for Equestria's hero,’ as he put it, he took in Twilight immediately into the sonogram room.

Fire’ sighs to himself out of pure boredom. “It’s been a while, huh?” A familiar voice said. Fire’ look to the door and sees Fire Lord Zuko and his Uncle walking in.

“What are you two doing here?” Fire’ asked.

“I brought them.” Another familiar voice said. Fire’ looks behind the two and sees Lunar Eclipse.

“Oh...”

“So, how have you been?” Zuko asked.

“I’ve been great.” Fire’ answered. “I still can’t believe that three years ago, I didn't even knew Twilight, and yet I had a connection with her. And now...”

“I see.” Zuko said as Iroh takes out a Pai Sho set from his saddle bag.

“So, is it a colt or a filly?” Iroh asked as he sets it up.

“Don’t know yet.” Fire’ answered.

“Well, I hope it's a colt.” Iroh said when he finished. “Why don’t we play Pai Sho to help past the time?” They dwindled in the waiting room in silence for a few minutes, Lunar Eclipse staring at Twilight's door and Fire’ and Iroh are playing Pai Sho.

Suddenly, the sound of a door opening broke the silence. Fire’ leaped up to his hooves and stared down at the door. Carousel stood halfway out the door, an expression of shock on his face. Utter shock. Fire’ cocked his head to one side, "Dr. Carousel? Is everything all right?"

Carousel shook his head to regain his composure and gestured for Fire,’ Zuko, Iroh and Lunar Eclipse to come over. "You'd ... you'd best come and see for yourself..."

Fire,’ the two Earth Ponies and the Alicorn exchanged confused looks before trotting over to the sonogram room and walking inside. In the room, Twilight was laying down in a bed, an equally shocked look on her face. The doctor walked up to the screen on the far wall and turned on the light, showing the pictures the sonogram and taken. Upon turning the backlight on, two little pony-looking blobs sat curled up inside Twilight's womb, and their defining feature were the horns on their little heads. “I don’t get it.” Fire’ said. “Why do you two look like you saw a ghost? There just Uni-”

“Well, not exactly.” Carousel interrupted. "If I may draw your attention to this area of womb right here..." He rose a hoof up and gestured at some weird tiny bumps that were sticking out of the two small figure's backs.

"ALICORNS!" Lunar Eclipse barked suddenly, leaping forward and pushing the doctor out-of-the-way.

"What the hay!?" Fire’ said as he and Zuko ran up with him.

"Alicorns? Really?" Iroh asked.

"Those are wings, Fire’!" The Alicorn barked. "Wings!" It was now Fire's turn to look shocked. He turned and looked at Twilight, who was now staring at Fire's face, her face now held a look of calmness. He turned back and looked at the sonogram. Sure enough, upon closer observation, the tiny formations coming out the two babies’ backs were indeed wings.

"That's ... that's amazing!" Fire’ said as he ran over and hugged Twilight, who, without saying a word, hugged him back tightly, tears spilling out of her eyes, "What are they?"

"One a colt." The doctor smiled warmly. “And one a filly”

"A colt and filly!" Fire’ smiled again shortly before looking confused again, "But-but the Alicorns..." He gulped. "H...how?" Fire’ managed to say through his shock.

"That's the part that leaves me baffled, I'm afraid..." The doctor shook his head, "The last Alicorn born was Cadence 33 years ago, and both of her parents were Alicorns. I'm afraid I don't know how this came about..."

"I do..." A female voice reverberated around the room. There was a flash of bright light near the door and in the light's place stood the two Alicorn Princesses themselves.

The Doctor, Zuko, Iroh, Fire,’ and Twilight made quick bows as they appeared. "Your Highnesses..." Fire’ said, surprised.

"Hello..." Celestia said, striding into the room, her facial expression seemed calm and collected, but her mind was caught in a rush of emotion and surprise.

"Princess, please." Twilight begged, getting out of the bed suddenly and walking to Celestia eagerly, "How did me and Fire’ have Alicorns?"

"Good question..." She turned towards the doctor, "Doctor, I have personal matters I wish to discuss with these ponies."

"Oh, um, of course, your majesty..." The Doctor made a quick bow before galloping out of the room and closing the door behind him.

"Okay, so ... how did this happen?" FIre’ asked eagerly, gesturing at his baby Alicorns.

"Don't think we weren't watching when you were fighting Ozia." Celestia cocked an eye, "We saw you and Twilight merge with the Elements."

"That, everypony..." Luna said seriously, "Is why Twilight Sparkle is going to have two Alicorns. The combination of your natural talent of magic and Twilights..." She pointed a hoof at Fire,’ "And the power of the Elements of Harmony and Nature..." She moved her hoof over to Twilight, "Is what caused this."

"What about the fact that he's a descendent of Star Swirl?" Lunar said, looking over at Fire.’ "Would that have had something to do with it?"

"Perhaps, but I cannot be sure..." Celestia said thoughtfully. "But I do know this. When you two merge, the babies life-forces became supercharged, and changed. You two unintentionally drew upon the magic that resides inside everypony, and made it bubble to the surface, creating not one, but two Alicorns."

Firebrand and Twilight exchanged surprised glances. Fire’ then walks over to Twilight and grasped her hoof, "Are the babies gonna be okay?"

"I do not know..." Celestia continued. "But early in life, Alicorn magic is incredibly unstable, they even mature faster than other ponies. Individuals who wish to use the two Alicorn's magic for evil would try to steal the baby away if word spreads of new baby Alicorns."

"Especially since one has not been born in 33 years..." Luna added.

The seven ponies sat in silence for a moment or two. Finally, Twilight spoke up, "So ... so what do we do?" Fire’ looked down at her and moved her head to a position so that she could lean on his shoulder.

"What else, dear?" Celestia smiled, "We wait, and cross that bridge when we come to it."

"Rest assured, we will make sure protection to the babies." Luna nodded, "Whatever happens."

Fire’ and Twilight smiled and hugged each other tightly, while Lunar Eclipse was still trying to recover from the fact the first Alicorns in 33 years was about to be born in a matter of months, after Shining and Cadence’s baby of course. “Lunar Eclipse,” Celestia said to the Prince of Death, getting his attention, “I want you to help Twilight and Firebrand with the new Alicorn.”

“Of course, Princess.” Lunar said. In a flash of light, both princesses disappeared as quickly as they appeared. Lunar Eclipse straightened himself up and turned his attention to the couple.

"Okay..." He started by clearing his throat. "Fire.’ Twilight. My new assignment is to watch over you. So, I might as well start on preparing you for the two Alicorns’ birth."

Fire’ and Twilight looked at each other, and then looked back at the Alicorn with smiles. "Can it wait until Twiley's a little more ... oh, I don't know ... plump?" Fire’ joked.

"Oh, quit it, Brandy!" Twilight slugged her husband in the arm before they both burst out laughing.

Lunar smiled at their joy, "Of course. But there are preparations that need to be taken care of as soon as possible..."

"Like...?" Twilight eagerly asked.

“We get back to the Fire Nation.” Zuko pointed out.

“Oh, right.” Lunar than charges a spell, and in a flash, Zuko and Iroh are gone. The Alicorn then scoffed, "Preparing a room for the babies, Twilight Sparkle. Good Celestia above, don't make this more complicated that it has to be..." he smiled jokingly.

This earned him a pillow to the face from Twilight, and all three ponies laughed. This moment was the happiest Fire’ had felt in his entire life. There was something about the babies that he had created, growing inside of the mare he loved, that was special to him. This moment was just the beginning of the happiest, and more challenging, eight months of Fire's life, that will make fighting Ozia look like a pice of cake.

==================================================================

Roughly a month after the hospital visit, Fire’ had since moved in with Twilight so he could be there for her whenever she needed him during the months of her pregnancy with their Alicorn children. Twilight had grown a little plump in the tummy area over the past month as well. "I never thought I'd be worried about looking fat." Twilight sighed, as she looked into a mirror in her room, walking around in a circle to get views of herself from all angles.

Fire’ chuckled as he walked up behind her, "I don't care how you look, Twiley." He wrapped his front hooves around her stomach and cuddled her from behind, looking at her in the mirror, "I think pregnancy gives you a certain ... glow, Twiley..."

"Knock it off!" She swatted him away, laughing, "Don't patronize me!"

"Oh please..." Fire’ chuckled back, gesturing at the mirror, "I still see the same Twilight Sparkle in that mirror! You have nothing to worry about."

She turned her attention back to the mirror for a moment, then turned back to him, "Really, Fire’?"

"Of course!" He cocked an eye. "She's just a little bigger than-"

"Crossing the line there, Brandy!" She ran up to him and kissed him on the cheek before running out of the room, "Now c'mon! We said we'd meet my brother and the others for lunch at Doughnut Joe’s!"

"Gimme a sec!" Fire’ called after her, "Well, this isn't so bad..." Fire’ thought aloud as he trotted out of the room after her. "I thought pregnancy would be much worse...” This was just the beginning, however.

==================================================================

The next morning found Fire’ and Twilight cuddling in their bed. As the first rays of sunlight beamed through the window, Fire’ sat up, rubbing his eyes. "Ugh..." He smiled, looking down at his sleeping wife. "Hey there, gorgeous."

She tiredly smiled and blinked up at him, "Hey..."

"How'd you sleep, Twiley?" Fire’ asked as he stroked her cheek.

"Well, to be honest..." Twilight stopped talking and looked down at her stomach.

"W-what?" Fire’ asked, alarmed. "Is everything okay?"

She turned her head to look at him, and then smiled awkwardly. "Yeeeah ... gimme a minute..." All at once, she rolled over to the side of the bed, grabbed her garbage can, and vomited.

Fire’ gasped, his mouth hanging open, slowly edging away from Twilight. Not only was she basically throwing up her entire internal organs, it was colored purple.

"Oh wow..." Fire’ put a hoof up to his mouth. "Pony morning sickness ... worse than I thought ... oh man ... now I don't feel good..." Fire’ then began to feel woozy. "That..." He pointed at the can as Twilight wiped her mouth off and looked over at him sickly. "Is the most colorful vomit I've ever seen..."

"Yeah..." Twilight blushed. "Sorry you had to see that..." She looked down at the can.

Fire’ nodded slowly, "Uh huh..." He held up a hoof and rolled out of bed. "I'll be right back..." He said as he left the room.

"Okay..." Twilight groaned and held her stomach. "What are you doing,’ Fire’?"

"I said hang on!" Fire’ yelled from outside.

"What are you doing outside?" Twilight asked him. There was no reply, but then she heard a very audible vomiting noise from Fire.’ "Oh my goodness!" Twilight leaped out of bed. "Fire’! Are you okay!"

"Yeah!" Fire’ said to her. "I'm fine!"

"Are you sure?" Twilight couldn't help but smile and chuckle a little as she talked to Fire.’

"Yeah! Positive!" Fire’ said to her as she heard him walk back up the stairs. "The roof of our neighbor ain't so good thou."

"Don't worry!" Twilight said to him.

"That's your opinion..." Fire’ said as he walks back in, frowning.

"Ew..." Spike, who was sleeping in a little basket bed nearby, said while sticking out his tongue. "Are all ponies form Abysus that gross?"

"I could ask you the same thing about ponies from Equestria..." Fire’ said as he walks up to Twilight, frowning sarcastically.

She lightly pecked him on the cheek and said, "Touché..." She then turned around and threw up in her can again.

Fire’ looked away this time, saving himself the trauma of having to vomit again. "Oh..." Fire’ thought, putting a hoof up to his mouth again. "I jinxed myself yesterday, didn't I?"

This was only the first in a long line of tribulations Fire’ had to go through during Twilight's pregnancy. Along with the morning sickness, there was also a lot of mood swings and strange cravings, often yelling at Fire’ to go get her a literal mud pie, and then started crying and saying she didn't mean it when he came back covered in mud, scowling. However, not all the times were bad.

==================================================================

Three months later, the mares decided to throw Twilight an early foal-shower at Doughnut Joe’s while Fire’ was off training with a martial arts master Pegasus named Delta, as Celestia had insisted he learn to defend himself and the Alicorn foals without the need of his magic, Firebending or Energybending.

Twilight had grown bigger around the middle. About seventy-five percent of Ponyville's mares showed up at the Doughnut Joe’s for the party with gifts for the unborn Alicorn colt and filly. The only stallion there was Joe, and he felt out-of-place as it was. Pinkie Pie herself set up the shindig, with balloons and streamers galore in the café. A banner hung above the party on the wall that read: "Congrats on the colt and filly, TS!"

"Congratulations again Twilight!" Rarity said, levitating a wrapped box out of her saddlebag and onto the pile of presents next to Twilight, "That's an adorable little outfit for the babies! It has the Element of Magic for the filly and the Element of Fire for the colt etched onto both sides!"

Twilight smiled and gave her friend and quick little hug, "Thanks, Rarity. I'm sure Fire’ will like it too."

"Speaking of which, are you sure Fire’ was okay with this whole thing?" Rarity asked Twilight, cocking an eye, "It seems recently he's been obsessed with sticking next to you, like he's your bodyguard."

Twilight chuckled and smiled, "First, he is my bodyguard right now. Second, he’s my husband. And Third, he's not just my bodyguard or husband..." She patted her stomach.

"I see..." Rarity looked at her stomach, then back up at her. "He does love you, Twilight."

"Why would you go and say something like that?" Twilight said suddenly, narrowing her eyes.

Applejack walked up. "Even ah can see yo' two haf been real happy lately."

“Yeah.” Twilight said. “I can only imagined how much he cares about both me and the babies.”

==================================================================

Meanwhile ... "HIYAH!" Fire's hoof crashed into a punching bag at the Canterlot gym, with a black Pegasus stallion with a lime green stripe down the middle of his back and silver eyes and the Greek Delta symbol as a cutie mark standing on the other side, holding the bag while Fire’ continued to pummel it with his front two hooves.

"C'mon, Hothead!" The stallion barked into Fire's ear as he continued to slam his hooves into the bag, "Is that all you got, kid? Twilight Sparkle is depending on YOU! Your foals are depending on YOU!"

Fire’ growled and pummeled the back with even more ferocity than before. Standing off to the side were Lunar Eclipse, Shining Armor, Blitz, Ar and Golden Rod. They all watched Fire’ intently, as if half-expecting the bag to snap off its chains and fall down.

"He's good..." Blitz muttered.

"Yeah..." Shining said. "He's one tough pony, I know."

The Alicorn nodded. "I'm glad Delta offered him training free of charge. He will need this training when the Alicorns are born. Many will try to take advantage of the two newborn's powers..."

"Yeah, I know the feeling." Shining said as he leaned against the wall. "There not the only ones having a little Alicorn."

"Oh, yeah. Your having a baby Alicorn to. I forgot.” Blitz said. “What are you and Cadence gonna name it?"

"Him, you mean.” Shining reminded the Element of Lightning. “I’m thinking Blazing Dawn."

"That worries me..." Lunar Eclipse said, eyes still locked on Fire's fighting. "Three Alicorns being born months from each other." He looked down. "I just hope that nothing bad will happen to yours or Fire’s families."

"AAAAARGH!" They watched in awe as Fire’ did a roundhouse power kicked the bag, snapping the chains and sending it crashing to the ground. Delta had to jump out-of-the-way.

Blitz whistled in amazement, while Lunar Eclipse, Ar, Shining, and GR just stared in awe. "Good work there, son." Delta grasped hooves with Fire,’ who wiped the sweat off his brow with his other hoof. "Tomorrow, I'll spar against you, and see how you do."

"Thanks again, Delta." Fire’ smiled and nodded. "I appreciate you are willing to teach me for free."

"Anything for one of the ponies that saved the world." He winked then turned around and started walking away. "Take five, then we start your strength training..."

Fire’ nodded and walked over to his friends who were watching. "How'd I do?"

"How'd you do?" Shining looked exasperated. "How'd you do?! Fire,’ you destroyed the bucking thing!"

“Yes. Good work, Firebrand." Ar said.

"Thanks guys." Fire’ then looked up at the Prince of Death. "How's Canterlot, Lunar?"

"The residents here are very friendly and accepting, although some find it hard to believe that another Alicorn exists, let alone a male." He sighed. "The mares can't seem to leave me alone whenever I step outside."

"That's how I felt when I first arrived..." Fire’ smiled and patted his shoulder. "Pick a mare and have some fun while you're here, Lunar!"

"Yeah!" Blitz pointed a hoof at him. "Take advantage since your here and enjoy yourself!"

"I wish I could..." Lunar Eclipse sighed. "But my heart belongs to another..."

The friends were silent for a moment before Fire’ nodded in understanding. "Deep." He playfully shoved the Alicorn. "It's your decision, boyfriend of Princess Luna." This caused Lunar to blush.

He then turned towards Ar, who was meditating. "Ah! Speaking of mares, how're you are Applejack getting along?" Fire’ joked, causing Ar to blush.

"Why do you ask?" Ar said, still blushing.

“Oh, come on, mate!” Blitz said as he gave the monk a playful punch. “We all see how AJ looks at you.”

"I ... supposed that it wouldn't hurt..." Ar quietly said.

"No, it wouldn't." Shining said.

"Fire’! Weight training! Let's go!" Delta barked.

Fire’ sighed and galloped across to some barbells Delta was standing next to. As Lunar watched Fire’ train, he sighed as he thought back to a message he had received from Celestia the other day about Fire.’ "This training might be useful, but those who will try to do harm to him are out of his league. Well, Deker was nearly out of his league, but ... I just don't know..." He watched the hotheaded stallion bench press a good amount of weights and slightly smiled. "We'll see how things turn out..."

==================================================================

"Twilight!" Fire’ called, running into the tower, "I'm home!"

"Hey, Fire’...” A very pregnant Twilight said, walking into the entryway and kissing Fire’ on the cheek, "You get those apples from Applejack?"

Fire’ smiled warmly, "Yep. At the usual discounted price, too."

"Good, go set them in the kitchen, will ya, Fire’?" She brushed her tail up against his muzzle as she walked past him.

"Can do, sweetie!" He called back, trotting into the kitchen. It was about eight or so months into the pregnancy now, and three months earlier, Cadence and Shining had a healthy baby Alicorn colt they named Blazing Dawn. It was now spring, and things were beginning to look up. The foals were due any day now, and Fire’ was happy, despite the nine months of mood swings and morning sickness. His martial arts training had been a success for the most part, his unarmed skills now at greater levels than they were before. As a result, Fire’ had grown both in height and muscular build, and Spike kept joking it would be hilarious since there's also a filly, because he would have to carry around a pink diaper bag. Fire’ kept insisting that he wouldn't mind, but he thanked Celestia that there's also a colt every time Spike joked about that.

"You know, Twiley..." Fire’ said, taking the apples out of his saddlebag and dropping them into a basket in the corner. "I've noticed some changes in you..."

"Oh really?" Twilight trotted in and sat down in a chair. "Like...?"

Fire’ turned and put a hoof up to his chin, "Well..." He trotted over and sat down across from her. "You've come a long way from the egghead who got me into the Spirit World for the first time..."

"How?"

"Well, you're more outgoing, talkative, and exuberant. I mean, you are still the same old Twilight Sparkle, and I wouldn't trade her for anypony, but..." He smiled and leaned forward, "I've seen some building of your character, Twiley..."

She blushed and patted her stomach, "It's all thanks to you, Brandy."

Fire’ laughed, "See, there she is."

"I've seen changes in you, too, Fire.’" She said, leaning back.

"Oh?"

"Yeah, like..." She stopped suddenly, a look of confusion on her face. "Ew..." She started shifting uneasily in her seat.

Fire’ sat up straight, "What?"

"The cushion of this seat is all wet..."

"That's weir-oh no..." Fire's eyes widened in shock. "Okay, um ... Twi, uh..." He quickly thought about how to put this. "Um Twi ... how long has it been since we ... you know?"

She put a hoof up to her chin as she began to do the calculations. "Almost nine mo-oh noooo!" She jumped up in panic. "It's happening! Oh dear Celestia, it's happening!"

Fire’ leaped up and grabbed her shoulder. "It's okay, Twiley. Breath. In through your nose, and out through your mouth!"

Twilight obeyed his orders and breathed steadily. It was clear, however, that she was feeling pain in her stomach. "AAAAARGH!" She cried out suddenly in pain.

"Shhh, Twi! It'll be okay! C'mon, let's get you to the hospital. I'm here, Twiley!" Fire' pulled her close. In a puff of smoke, however, Lunar Eclipse appeared.

"I heard screaming..." He looked down at the water on the floor. "Oh my ... is this...?"

"YES!" Fire’ barked, keeping his hooves around Twilight, keeping her breathing. "GET US TO THE HOSPITAL! NOW!"

The Prince of Death nodded furiously, "Right! Yes, of course!" In a puff of black smoke, all three ponies were gone from Twilight's tower.

Chapter 20, Twins

The Elements of Nature
Book 3: 气 (Air)
Chapter 20, Twins

It was about 5 a.m. in Canterlot, and Luna's moon still shone brightly in the darkness of the sky. Most of the lights in the city were off and the town was dark, save for that of the ever busy hospital. Rainbow, with her usual unruly bed-head mane, burst through the doors to the second floor hallway of the hospital, followed by Applejack without her hat, Rarity with curls in her mane, Pinkie Pie bouncing as always, and Fluttershy, who looked scared and nervous as she looked around, then Shining Armor and Cadence, back to her original shape, Agua with her mane strait up, Hielo having bed head, Blitz in some light blue pajamas without his Beret, Terra in her usual wear and Ar with his monk robe. "Wait!" A nurse Pony shouted, galloping through the doors after them, "You aren't allowed up here without proper authorization!"

"We don't need nah' stinkin' authorization, ma'am!" AJ shouted back, "Our buckin' friend is giving birth!"

Weaving in and out of doctors and nurses in the hallway, the five friends galloped to the room the nurse behind them had indicated before the went off, running up the stairs. Lunar Eclipse, the Alicorn known as the Prince of Darkness, was standing tall and strong in front of the door to the room in which ear-shattering screaming could be heard.

Upon, hearing the screaming, the five friends and the nurse skidded to a halt and covered their ears. Lunar Eclipse remained stalwart, but even he flinched and his ear twitched when Twilight's scream echoed through the hall. "Shhh sh sh! Twilight, look at me! Look at me, Twi!" Fire's voice was heard, "I'm here for you!"

"What in tarnation?" Applejack walked forward, but Lunar Eclipse held up a hoof and stopped her.

"That's far enough, Applejack." The Alicorn muttered, "It's ... well, it's not pretty in there, to say the least..."

"Meaning?" Shining asked, knowing what child birth looks like.

"Needless to say, the doctors here have no idea how to birth even one Alicorn; let alone know what to expect. An Alicorn hasn't been born for a very long time." Lunar sighed, "Dr. Carousel is doing his be—"

"AAAAAARRRRRRRHHHHHHHH!" Twilight screamed in pain again, causing everypony to flinch. Fluttershy winced and stepped forward towards the door a little, as if wanting to go in a be there for Twilight as well.

"Hey, you ponies!" The nurse who was chasing them called out as she finally caught up with them, an angry expression on her face, "I don't care if you know Ms. Twilight, you aren't allowed—"

"Nurse." Lunar Eclipse said sternly, "With my royal permission, they are allowed up here. Period."

He stared her down, and the shuddering nurse slowly nodded, "My apologies, your highness." With that, the nurse turned and galloped back to the doors they had burst through.

"How long has the poor dear been here, Lunar?" Rarity asked, frowning, "When did they check in? How did it happen?"

Lunar sighed, "Even this is new for me..." He looked up at the clock on the wall, "Roughly five hours ago, I heard screaming from Twilight's tower. I teleported in, and found Twilight screaming and Fire’ panicking." He sighed again, "Needless to say I put two and two to—" He was cut off by another scream and Fire’ shouting words of comfort again before he recovered and said, "Together." He nodded curtly.

"Can..." Shining asked, "Can we go in?"

"No, I'm afraid..." Lunar said, "Before going into labor, Twilight said that nopony except Fire’ could be in the room with her. She said, however, that you all could come up and wait out here." He smiled slightly, "So you didn't even need my permission, ultimately."

"So..." Fluttershy asserted herself, "We wait? That's all we can do for Twilight?"

"That's all we can do fer now, partner." Applejack took a seat in a chair outside the room.

“Hold on, wait.” Rainbow said. “Where your son, Blaze?” Rainbow asked Shining and Cadence.

“He’s at my parents.” Shining answered. “We didn't want to bring him along so we left him with them.”

==================================================================

An hour of screaming and heavy breathing exercises later found Twilight on the verge of ‘splitting open,’ as she kept screaming whenever a retraction occurred. Fire’ was seated in a chair next to her bed, grasping her hoof with both of his hooves, eyes locked on her and never looking away; not even for split second. After another painful retraction, Twilight's breathing returned to what could be considered normal for a mare in labor, she turned and looked at Fire,’ squeezing his hooves tighter than ever before. "F-Fire '..." She winced as more pain shot through her, "Fire,’ I-I'm not g-gonna make it! AAARGH!"

Fire’ stood up on his hind legs and stroked her mane while still holding onto her hoof, "Shhh shshsh ... Twi, these things happen every day here. Dr. Carousel knows what he's doing."

"That I do, Miss Sparkle." The faithful pony doctor said from the edge of the bed, where he was managing Twilight's labor, "You have absolutely nothing to worry about!"

"Really?" Twilight looked over at the doctor.

The doctor hesitated before saying, "Yes, I promise. Now, let's deliver a couple of babies, shall we? Back to breathing, remember? In, out. In, out." Twilight did as instructed for about a minute before turning to Fire’ and noticing that, for the first time, his head was not turned towards her. He was unwaveringly staring at the floor.

"F-Fire’?" She winced through more pain. "Fire,’ a-are you o-okay?"

"Twiley..." He looked at her, his eyes glowing and a smile on his face, "We're gonna be..." He chuckled as a tear fell out of his eye, slipping down his face before he looked up and smiled, "We're gonna by parents..." Twilight smiled as he got even more emotional, "I just ... I didn't think having at least one foal would feel so..." He shook his head in disbelief, "Would feel so good. Rewarding, you know?"

"You think you're surprised?" Twilight smirked before inhaling and exhaling as the doctor instructed, "When we first met, would you or anypony ever think me good enough to be mommy material?"

They both chuckled and shared one last moment of conversation before Twilight's eyes widened in pain and she screamed as her body writhed from another contraction. This one bigger than the rest. "Uh oh!" Fire’ grasped her hooves again, "Twilight! It's gonna be all right! I love you! We'll get through this!"

"Oh, boy!" The doctor cried out from the edge of the bed. "There coming! The Alicorns’ are coming!

The heartbeat monitor beat faster and faster as she writhed in pain again and again. "FIRE’!" She closed her eyes tightly and started screaming louder if possible, "IT'S KILLING ME!"

"Twiley, you can do this!" Tears were streaming out of Fire's eyes at this point. He couldn't bear to see her in such pain, "Twiley! I'm here!" She couldn't hear him over her screams of pain. Fire’ grasped her hoof even harder and leaned forward, tears flying off his face, he screamed back at her: " TWILIGHT! I LOVE YOU! AND YOU CAN DO THIS!"

==================================================================

From outside in the hallway, many of the doctors and nurses had gathered around the door to listen. The seen friends sat still as well. They were emotionally moved upon hearing their friend in such pain. Rarity started crying and buried her face in a nearby doctor's coat, who looked around awkwardly. Fluttershy, surprisingly, was the most stable one there, standing tall and leaning towards the door, as if ready to spring into action at any moment. Just when the screaming became worse, and they heard the doctor say the foal was coming, everypony held their breath. They heard the heart-rate monitor going nuts, and finally, Fire’ screamed: " TWILIGHT! I LOVE YOU! AND YOU CAN DO THIS!"

Then silence. No more screaming. No more Fire’ giving words of confidence. Only the sound of the heart-rate monitor returning to normal. Then, the sound of two foals ... crying. Everypony out in the hallway exchanged glances of joy and shock with Lunar Eclipse, who, for the first time in a long while, had a small smile on his face. "Out-of-the-way!" Fluttershy said suddenly, pushing past the Alicorn, who readily let her aside, and yanking open the door.

What the 12 friends beheld upon entering the room was enchanting. The sun barely peaking over the mountains out of the window and shining its bright hue over the scene. Fire’ was standing on his hind legs, still gripping Twilight's hoof, and Twilight lay in bed, panting heavily, staring at the doctor. Or rather, what was in Carousel's hooves. A small baby colt and a baby filly were curled up in the doctor's hooves, both crying. The colt had an orange mane and a light red coat while the filly has a purple mane with a turquoise streak thats like Twilights, and a coat the same color as Twilight's. Two new Alicorns had been born into Equestria.

"Here you go, Twilight..." Dr. Carousel said, walking over and gently placing the tiny foals in Twilight's arms. The foals stopped crying all at once and nuzzled their mom's chest.

Rainbow slowly looked up at Fire,’ who had the biggest smile she's ever seen him make. Tears streaming down both parents faces, they embraced in a way that the baby was included, but gently. The scene brought everypony who came through the door to tears or to the verge thereof. Rainbow had to get a tissue box. Rarity was still crying into the doctor's coat, but tears of joy. Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy were quiet, smiles on their faces as they gazed at the baby. Shining and Cadence were the most moved by the fact that they now had a nice and nephew.

Lunar Eclipse, however, was overjoyed. He had just witnessed the birth of two Alicorns. Two members of his species. He sighed and shook his head, emotion clogging up his throat. "Perhaps there's hope after all..." He thought.

The foals rolled over and hunkered down into their mother's hooves, falling asleep instantly. Fire’ smiled. "Now, comes the important part, Twi. Naming the two."

"How about Nyx for the filly and Phoenix for the colt?" Twilight asked.

Fire’ smiled at this. “Nyx and Phoenix. I love it.” Fire’ said as he wiped away another tear before chuckling and saying, "They couldn't have asked for better names..."

Everypony stood in silence for a few moments more, in awe at the Alicorn foals, or there for support. Nyx started making cute little noises and flailing her hooves in his sleep. "She's dreaming Fire.’" Twilight chuckled and looked over at Fire.’

He smiled. "Heh ... she is ... she's awfully feisty, like Twilight was when she was born." Shining said, remembering when Twilight was born when he was six.

"I guess so." Twilight said, sighing and chuckling again. "I wonder what they’re dreaming about." Fire’ stood suddenly and, much to the groups surprise, began singing a lullaby:

I see trees of green, red roses too.
I see them bloom for me and for you.
And I think to myself what a wonderful world.

Twilight smiled and held up the babies to their Dad. Fire’ took Nyx and Phoenix in his arms and chuckled as they tossed and turned in their sleep.

I see skies of blue and clouds of white.
The bright blessed day, and the dark sacred night.
And I think to myself what a wonderful world.

He walked over to a window and, rocking Nyx and Phoenix back and forth in his arms, continued singing gently to his son and daughter.

The colors of the rainbow so pretty in the sky.
Are also on the faces of ponies going by.
I see friends shaking hoofs saying how do you do.
They’re really saying I love you.

Fire’ gasped as the babies opened their eyes and gazed up at their Dad, and smiled a little. Phoenix had charcoal black eyes like his father while Nyx has turquoise eyes. Fire’ sniffed and smiled back at them.

I hear babies crying, I watch them grow.
They’ll learn much more, than I’ll ever know.
And I think to myself what a wonderful world.
Yes I think to myself what a wonderful world.

Nyx and Phoenix fell back asleep in his hooves. They nuzzled Fire's chest as his heart swelled with joy. He had never felt happiness like this before in his life, except when he met Twilight. He turned, and gave the baby back to her, who wiped away tears from Fire's lullaby. "Well, if he's anything like his father, he's probably dreaming about music."

Fire’ laughed slightly. "Haha ... oh Twiley..." He put a hoof over the mare's shoulder. "We did good, Twi..."

"We sure did ... But, seriously Fire.’ How did you learn to sing like that?”

“My dad used to sing it to me when I was a colt.” Fire’ answered.

Just then, Celestia, Luna, Night Light, Twilight Velvet and a baby Alicorn, Shining and Cadence’s son, Blazing Dawn came in, who has a sapphire blue coat and a pale gold mane. “Oh, there beautiful.” Velvet said when she saw her new grand children.

“Mom, dad, Celestia, Luna, meet Nyx and Phoenix.” Twilight said to them.

Luna took a step forward and saw the baby Alicorns, and started to cry. “Doctor.” Luna said to him. “How fast will Blazing Dawn, Nyx and Phoenix grow?”

“If I had to guess, I say they will be biologically 17 in about two years.” Carousel answered.

“They’ll be the same age a Sweetie Belle by then.” Rarity said as Twilight leans her head on Fire’s chest as they gazed at Nyx and Phoenix, the second and third Alicorns to be born in a very long time.

==================================================================

One month later, Twilight and Fire’ have been busy keeping Nyx and Phoenix both healthy and happy. During that time, the two baby Alicorns grew fast, thou they were chronologically one month, they were 5 months old biologically. Phoenix was a bit too eager to explore. One time, Twilight found Phoenix in the trash can, and another time Fire’ found him in his and Twilight’s closet. Nyx often cried when Spike took something she liked or when Twilight had to yell at Spike just to get his attention. It became clear to Fire,’ Twilight and even Spike that Nyx was quiet sensitive.

When it was time for bed, Twilight either read to two a story or Fire’ sang them a lullaby. They took turns when it came to putting them to sleep, and changing the dippers. The crusaders came over one time to babysit due to Fire’ and Twilight going out to dinner, and they got along quiet well, especially Sweetie Belle and Phoenix. “Thanks again girls.” Twilight said as she and Fire’ are about to leave the door. “Oh, and make sure Phoenix stays on the ground! When he tries to fly, he hurts himself!” She said as she closes the door.

"He has Fire's eyes, and she has Twilight's tail and mane style, but I have no idea where the turquoise came from..." Scootaloo remarked.

"There so cute, though!" Sweetie Belle cooed softly as she and Scootaloo watched Phoenix look at a butterfly that had wandered in.

"An' besides, pony genetics ain't th' easiess thin' to understand...” Apple Bloom said as she plays with Nyx. “Maybe Twilight's gran'ma had a turquoise mane ... o' maybe Fire's cousin twice-removed had it..."

Phoenix was gleefully swiping at the butterfly, but ended up rolling forward right into Scootaloo's lap as she was sitting down. He started to cry at his short tumble, but Scootaloo quickly picked up the baby Alicorn and tried to calm him. "Shhh, sh! It's okay, you little cutie." Scootaloo said as she smiled, "Scootaloo’s here to take care of you."

"Ah doesn't reckon thet'll work, Scootaloo..." Apple Bloom sighed, "He be hankerin' for his mammy..." Phoenix then opened his eyes for a split second and saw Scootaloo. Upon seeing the young pre-mare holding him, her grayish purple eyes sparkling despite not being in the sun. Phoenix then stops crying and smiled, flapping his little wings and trying to fly towards Scootaloo from her arms.

"Whoa..." Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle both said at the same time, shocked. "How in Equestria did you do that?" Sweetie Belle questioned, still staring at the baby colt, who was laughing and giggling.

"I ... I didn't do anything!" Scootaloo chuckled as she tossed Phoenix up into the air and caught him, "Wee!" Scootaloo exclaimed, ruffling his orange mane and watching the baby chuckle, "I don't know what your mommy was talking about! You can to fly!" Phoenix started giggling even more, fluttering his wings in excitement.

"Here, let me see him, Scootaloo!" Sweetie Belle reached out her arms, but Phoenix leaned away from Sweetie Belle's outstretched arms and shook his head, whimpering a little.

"Sorry there, Sweetie..." Scootaloo chuckled, "I guess he only likes me."

Apple Bloom giggled as Sweetie Belle rolled her eyes. "Yeah ... I guess..."

“Oh, cheer up. Yo' kin see Nyx.” Apple Bloom said to her white Unicorn friend. Sweetie Belle then look over to Nyx, who was playing with a little teddy bear.

“I guess your right.” Sweetie Belle said as she got up and headed for the kitchen. “Now, where's that list at.” She said as she looked around the kitchen. “Oh, here it is.” She said as she takes a list off the refrigerator. “Lets see, feed them at 6, give them a bath at 7, and put them in bed at 9. Easy enough.”

“Why didn't Fire’ o' Twilight let Spike take care of these two agin?” Apple Bloom asked as she gave Nyx a new dipper.

“They said that he just disappeared.” Scootaloo answered as she changes Phoenix’s dipper. “Wonder why?”

“I think I know why.” Sweetie Belle said as she opens the refrigerator, finding Spike completely stuffed and out like a log. “I’ll get him to his bed upstairs. But we have a problem. He ate all the food!” She said as she takes out a bottle of ketchup, opens the cap and squeezes it, but gets nothing.

“Looks like one of us has to get food.” Scootaloo said as Phoenix plays with her mane.

“Ah volunteer Sweetie Belle.” Apple Bloom said.

“Why me?”

“Because, yer th' oldest.” Apple Bloom pointed out.

“Okay, fine.” Sweetie Belle said as she accepts defeat. “But how do we make baby food?”

“I think Twilight and Fire’ bought a baby food maker thing when Twilight was still pregnant.” Scootaloo said as she gets up, Phoenix on her back, giggling. “I’ll check the panty while Apple Bloom checks the cabinets.”

“Say, Sweetie Belle, while yer out, git some of mah sisters apples an' other fruit.” Apple Bloom said as she looks at the list. “It says hyar thet they like their baby food made fo'm fruit.”

“Gotcha.” Sweetie Belle said as she takes all the bits the three had and heads for the door. “I’ll get some pizza for us on the way back.” She said as she runs out and closes the door. As Sweetie Belle is running to the market place, she looks at the clock tower and sees that its 5:00 p.m. “Only got an hour until we have to feed them.” She said as she lands at the first stand, one that sells oranges. She buys a basket for four bits and heads for the next stand, the Sweet Apple Archers stand, and wouldn't you know it, Applejack is tending to it.

“Wal howdy Sweetie Belle.” Applejack said with a warm smile. “Whut kin ah git ya?”

“A basket of sweet apples please.”

“Sure thing.” Applejack said as she gets a basket and places it on the stand. “Th' usual price is 5 bits, but on account o' yer a fine friend of mah nutty sister, it on th' house.”

“Thanks AJ.” Sweetie Belle said as she takes the basket and places it on her back.

“Hold on, isn't yo,’ Scootaloo an' Apple Bloom babysittin' Nyx an' Phoenix tonight?” AJ asked.

“We are, well, I was, until we found Spike in the fridge, and all the food gone.”

“Oh, okay.”

“I should get back now.” Sweetie Belle said, having gotten enough oranges and apples. She then heads for the closest pizza parlor.

==================================================================

Back at the tower, Scootaloo and Apple Bloom are cleaning the refrigerator after they got Spike out and into his bed, who weighed half a ton. “Thet sh'd does it.” Apple Bloom said as they throw away the wipes they used. They then hear their stomachs growling. “Ah hope Scootaloo gits back hyar soon. I’m gittin' hungry.”

“I think the babies are getting hungry too.” Sweetie pointed out when she sees Nyx and Phoenix gnawing at their table.

Just then, with pizza, apples, and oranges in hoof, Sweetie Belle runs in. “I got the food.” She said as she places each on the table. Sweetie then uses her magic to levitate some apples and oranges into a baby blender, turns it on, pours the mush into two bowls, one pink and one blue, and gives them to Nyx and Phoenix, who happily eat.

“Perfect timing, Sweetie Belle.” Scootaloo said as she takes a slice of pizza. “We were all getting hungry.”

==================================================================

One hour later, the three young mares are trying to get Nyx and Phoenix to take a bath, but they refuse to do so. It took two hours to clean them. Now was the part the three fillies were dreading, putting them to bed. It was 10 when Sweetie decided to sing a lullaby.

Rock-a-bye baby, in the tree top
When the wind blows, the cradle will rock
When the bough breaks, the cradle will fall
And down will come baby, cradle and all

She sang it, which worked. The three Crusaders then quietly walk down stairs to the living room. “Boy, am I tired.” Scootaloo said.

“Me too.” Apple Bloom added. “I notice that Phoenix really likes you, Scootz.” At this, Scootaloo slightly blushed.

"Aw ... look ..." Sweetie said as she nudged Apple Bloom, "Scootaloo’s got a new crush..."

"What?" Scootaloo sad as she shook her head, "He's a month old!" The three friends then laughed together as a news report came on the TV, catching there attention. They see a Unicorn reporter with blond mane, a light yellow coat and a reporter’s microphone with light blue stars for a cutie mark.

“Three months ago, Stark Jr, CEO of Stark International, was captured by a terrorist group after performing a weapons presentation in Afghanistallion. Multiple search parties have turn up nothing. And without it’s leader, Stark Industries will crumble.” She said.

“Oh, I hope that Stark guy is all right.” Apple Bloom said.

“Don’t worry, AB.” Scootaloo said. “I’m sure he’s fine. Wherever he is at.”

==================================================================

In a remote cave in Afghanistallion, a terrorist group has made it home. Deep within it, behind a 2 inch thick anti-magic door, an Earth Pony with a light brown coat and a black mane that's the same length as Big Mac’s and a light blue glowing circle for a cutie mark, is pounding metal with a sledge hammer. After he pounds it a few more times, he puts it into a bucket of water. Steam comes out as the pice of iron cools. He takes it out with a giant pair of tongs and places it on a table that a satyr is working at. The satyr looks at the molded metal, which is a metal mask three inches thick.

THE END?

Chapter 2, The X-Factor

The Elements of Nature
Book 3: 气 (Air)
Chapter 2, The X-Factor

It had been a couple of days since Mcallen nearly killed Fire’ and Shining, and Fire’ has been recovering. He is staying in a room that's like the one Rarity had when she stayed at Canterlot to make Twilight’s birthday present. It's after dusk and Fire’ is taking a shower when a flash of light drops a pice of paper on his bed. When he gets out, he notices the paper and uses magic to levitate it over. “Whats this? A song about me. Lets see.”

“He's a pony, on a mission.
With allies of spiritual and magical ammunition.
Trapped on the edge of an endless game.
His simple life will never be the same.
In a dangerous world he does all he can.
He’s Firebrand!
Firebrand!"

“Okay, that's actually catchy.” Fire’ said after he finished reading the song. “Why do I get the feeling that the one who wrote this is-” Before he could finished, Shining comes in.

“Sorry to bother you, but I need your help real quick.”

“What is it?” Fire’ said as he drays off and places the song on his bed.

“I received word of a hostage in a storage area. The other Avatars are in the library looking for the Daggers Tip, which is where that Guru told you that the Element of Fire and the sixth one are at, so it's just you and me.”

==================================================================

Later at the warehouse, Shining and Fire’ enter and see nothing at first, and Shining has a strange device. “What’s that thing anyway?”

“A scanner that detects electromagnetic waves. The Royal Guard has received reports about strange magnetic anomalies all over Canterlot, and this warehouse has the strongest readings by far. This thing is barely working as it is now.” The two then enter.

“There’s nothing here. Are you sure this is the right place?”

“I’m sure, Fire.’ Look, over there!” Shining then points to a Pegasus tied up with a metal beam.

“Hey, you okay?” Fire’ said as they run over to him. “He's out cold.”

“I just sent word to the hospital. There sending an ambulance now.” Shining said.

“Wonder what did this to him?” Fire’ asked. Just then, an earth pony in red and purple armor appears behind them. He is wearing a helmet that is also red and purple, the only detail they can see is that he has blue eyes.

“A couple more pitiful Equus ferus, this time in armor, mimicking the powers of my kind.” He then lifts a hoof, then both Fire’ and Shining begin to float up in the air. They're lifted out and once they're out, they're lifted up into the sky and then they are drop into a garbage truck.

“What just happened?”

“How should I know, Shin?”

==================================================================

In the Fire Nation Royal Palace, at Zuko's bedroom, Zuko is tossing and turning, unable to sleep. He opens his eyes and gets up, donning a cloak. Later at the rim of a volcano, he walks through a path. At the Capital City Prison, Zuko walks to it. He stops and looks above. A guard is walking through a balcony spots him. “Who's there?!” Zuko, without saying a word, turns back and walks away. The guard, seeing Zuko leave, resumes his patrol.

==================================================================

The next morning, at a restaurant near a middle school, the Avatars, the main six, the CMC, who are in their teens now and have cutie marks (Apple Bloom an apple half shape like a heart with a screw driver and a hammer crossed behind it, Scootaloo a disco ball, and Sweetie Belle with a microphone in front of a heart), Shining and Cadence are watching the news. Featherweight, Pipsqueak, and Twist are at a table near the CMC, who have now expanded their club to help other foals find there special talents. Fire’ and Shining are at a nearby table while the others are sitting away from them. “Red Stormwall (Pony version of Simon Trask) was assaulted last night for his anti-mutant stance.” The reporter said.

“Whoa. Fire,’ Shining. Did you two shower after your little garbage truck dive?” Rainbow asked as she moves a little further away. “You two smell like dippers.”

“Like a 140 pond dipper.” Blitz said.

“We showered like 20 times each.” Shining said. “You can’t get that smell out of poly resend metal, or our manes.”

“And worse,” Fire’ continued, “whoever did that to us, who ever has that kind magic or tech, vanished.”

Twilight then looks at the TV and sees Stromwall. “Thats the guy you two found last night, right?”

“Yep.” FIre' said. "According to his site, Red Stormwall is a big time anti-mutant activist. He wants to identify and control mutants.”

“What is this?” Blitz said, annoyed. “The 950s? That’s just wrong.”

“Excuse me dear,” Rarity said to Blitz, “but I kinda want to know if some Earth Pony or Pegasus has the power to fry me with just a look, or have retractable bone claws. There are many evil mutants out there.”

“Yeah,” Sweetie continued, “whats wrong with just identifying them?”

“So you two think they should be outed and ostracized, even if they don’t want to be. Segregated even.” Blitz said as he took to the air and hovered near them.

“No. Not segregated, just identified.” Sweetie said. Just then, a teacher at the high school calls out to her class. The group overhear this and see whats going on.

“If everypony would settle down and act like civilized ponies, thank you. I like to introduce a new student, her name is Arline and she's moved all the way from Colorado in the USA. Stand up Arline.” A Pegasus mare with an orange coat and a red mane then stands up. She also has light green eyes and a fossil of an ammonite for a cutie mark.

“Uh, hi.” She said. “I’m Arline. I really don’t know what to say.”

“Nice colors,” Diamond Tiara said, “if your from Loservile.” She and Silver Spoon then chuckle a little. Annie then sits back down.

“I sure am glade we no longer share any classes with those two bullies anymore.” Scootaloo said as she glared at the two earth ponies.

“Tell me about it.” Sweetie Belle said.

“I’m not sure about having a third redhead in class.” Apple Bloom said.

“Whoa. She’s cute, am I right or am I right?” Featherweight said to Pipsqueak.

“If you like the snobby stuck-up, better than Tiara attitude.” Scootaloo said.

“Nah.” Fire’ said to them, overhearing their conversation. “I think she's just shy.” Annie then looks over at them and smiles.

==================================================================

Just outside of the Whitetail Woods, Deker in his pony form is sitting on a hill. “Queen Chrysalis’ bonds can't hold me, but my cursed half-pony, half-changeling existence still imprisons me. My fate is sealed.” He then walks down a road where he meets a unicorn with a black mane, a gold coat, brown eyes, and a fishing rod for a cutie mark. He is also wearing a jacket that has a gray and white pattern on it. He is also pulling a blue ice chest that has an attachment for holding fishing rods. He also has a bird cage on the ice chest, but it's covered by a sheet. They walk past each when the gold unicorn stops.

“You.” The unicorn said as Deker stops in his tracks. “I know what you got there.” The unicorn said as Deker prepares to pull out his blade. “It’s fishing rods.” The gold unicorn said. Deker then breathes a sight of relief. ”And theres a good stream that way. They weren’t bitting this morning, but just now I caught a bunch!”

“I’m no fisher-pony.” Deker said as he begins to leave.

“Oh.” The unicorn then runs up in front of Deker. “But I bet your hungry. How about some lunch? Theres a secret Baby Barracuda Recipe I’m working on. Do you want to challenge your taste buds?”

“Maybe next time.” Deker then leaves.

“Say, do know where Canterlot is at?”

“Follow this path and enter the town of Ponyville. It's mostly deserted now because Celestia and Luna ordered a mass evacuation of neighboring towns. You’ll be able to see Canterlot from there.” Deker said as he enters Whitetail Woods.

==================================================================

Later after school has ended, the CMC, Featherweight, Pipsqueak, and Twist are walking down the hallway when Scootaloo sees Arline. “Hey, check it out. Theres the new girl. Do we need another orange Pegasus mare around here? I think not.” They then see Diamond Tiara grabbing Arline’s bag.

“Nice bag there, new girl.” Tiara said. They then have a small tug-a-war. “Whoa, easy. I just want to take a look.”

“Could you just stop. I don't want any trouble.” Arline said as Silver Spoon sees whats going on with other students.

“Trouble? Well, that's funny, because you just found a-” Just then, Tiara losses her grip and falls backwards. A locker door opens, hitting her in the face while another opens with a orang glow and she tumbles to the ground. The other students, including Silver Spoon, laugh at Tiara as she gets back up. “What are you?” She said while pointing an accusing hoof at Arline. “Some kind of mutant?” Tiara then leaves as the other students wonder what just happened. Arline then flies off.

“Did you see that?” Pipsqueak asked as they see Annie fly down the hall.

“You really think she's a mutant?” Sweetie said. “I mean if she is, maybe we should keep our distance.” Featherweight then flies of after Arline. He is soon followed by Twist, Pipsqueak, Scootaloo and Apple Bloom. Sweetie then gives up and follows them. On the roof, the teen CMC, Featherweight, Pipsqueak and Twist find Arline near a ledge.

“Uh, Arline.” Featherweight said. Annie then turns around. “Hi. Were not here to mess with you. I’m Featherweight. These are my friends, Pipsqueak, Twist, Scootaloo, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle. What you did back there, that was amazing.”

“I shouldn't have overreacted like that, but she wouldn't back off.” Arline said.

“But you didn't touch Diamond Tiara.” Sweetie said. “Your one of them, aren't you? A mutant?”

“And that freaks you out?” Arline asked them.

“No.” Scootaloo said as she walked to her.

“Of course not.” Featherweight said.

“Kind of.” Sweetie quietly said.

Apple Bloom glares at Sweetie for a moment before she has an idea. “My big sis and her friends invited us for dinner tonight. How about we talk there. Is that cool?” Arline turns around and looks at them. She then nodes a yes.

==================================================================

Later at Doughnut Joe’s doughnut shop, the main 6, Shining, Cadence, the CMC, the Avatars, Featherweight, Pipsqueak, Twist, and Arline are eating. “So, you're a mutant?” Shining asked.

“You don’t have to be afraid of us.” Fire’ said to her. “You can talk about whatever you want.”

“I’m not afraid. Believe me, not anymore. We all have secrets. Right, Firebrand?” Arline said.

“Huh?” Fire’ said as Arline begins to levitate the forks and other utensils.

“Man that is so cool!” Featherweight said as most of the group stare in disbelief. “What else can you do?” He asked.

“I can read ponies thoughts.” Arline then puts the stuff back on the table. “Thats why I trusted you and your friends. I know who they are. And I need your help.”

“You mean you know...” Fire’ began to say.

“You, Agua, Terra and Blitz are the Avatars.” The group then stare at each other. The news as who the Avatars were was keep hidden from the world by Celestia. “Look, I didn't mean to pry into your minds. I just don’t trust ponies often.” Arline said as she looks at Sweetie and Rarity.

“Why do you need our help?” Agua asked.

“I’ve been trying to find a school. Theres rumors about a special institute for mutants. But there are other mutants out there, not all of them good.” Arline said.

“Well, that's a big surprise.” Rarity sarcastically said.

“One of then wants me for his own cause. He's been trying to track me down. I had to run away from home so he wouldn't find my family.” Arline said as Fire’ notices something going on outside. “He hates normal ponies. Thinks a war is coming.” Arline said as Fire’ and then Shining stare outside and see cars and other metal objects float in the air.

“Ugh ... Does he wear red and purple?” Shining asked her.

“Yeah.” Arline answered.

“And ... ugh ... a metal helmet?” Fire’ said.

“It protects him from mental powers.” Arline then realizes that they shouldn't know about this.

“And does he have the power to control magnetism?” Fire’ said as than others see whats going on outside.

“What the hay is goin’ on?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Please tell me you're doing this, Twilight.”

“It’s not me, Cadence.”

“Oh no. Its him! Its Magneto!” Arline said as the Earth Pony from earlier floats down and launches a car at the doughnut shop. The group get back just when the car hits.

“You think you could hide from me for long, foal.” Magneto said as the group make way for the door. “The iron in your blood is unique. There like a hoof print. Once I'm close, I can track you like a lion tracks a gazelle.” The group run down an ally, but Magneto meets them at one end. Fire’ goes elemental and tries to attack, but Magneto flicks him away using a lamp pole. The group then run again, with Rainbow charging at Magneto. He takes a metal pole and wraps it around her.

“What the!?” Rainbow said.

“You call yourself a master of air, Element of Loyalty.” Magneto said as he flies after the others.

“Hurry! He's right behind us!” Featherweight said as they run down the street. Suddenly, a car and an ambulance block their path. They turn around and see Magneto.

“You run from the truth, filly. You know whats to come, and yet you flee from me.” Twilight uses her telekinesis to move the cars away. They then continue to run. “Foolish.” Magneto then takes three cars sideways and they slowly move toward the group.

“I really wish I know how to bend metal well.” Terra said, unable to see Magneto due to how still he is. Fire’ then comes flying in and hits Magneto in the face.

“Thats what happens when I pull my punch. You don’t want to see what happens when I don’t.” Magneto catches himself in midair due to his suit being made of metal. “Who are you anyway?!”

“You may call me Magneto. And you, my friend, have silver in your blood, which makes it a lot easier to do this!” Magneto then makes Fire,’ using his mechanical wings and the silver in his blood, hit the wall, slowly climb it, and hit the exact opposite wall and back a few times. “You would think our fist meeting would've taught you a lesson.” Magneto then pushes Fire’ agains a lamppost and twists it around Fire.’ Magneto then begins to slowly crush Fire.’

“Fire’! NO!” Twilight said.

“Leave him alone!” Annie said as multiple object make their way to Magneto, but he stops each one.

“Impressive. Your telekinesis is quite strong, just as strong as an Alicorns. Next time, try not metal objects.” He then tosses them back and looks at Firebrand. “You are nothing but a pony being who is an Avatar. Flesh, bone, hatred, and little spirit.” Magneto then takes the entire pole and tosses it with such force that it lands in Celestia’s thrown room. “Amusing, but I don’t have time to play with silver blooded ponies.” Magneto said as the main six, Shining, Agua, Terra, and Blitz make a stand while Annie, Featherweight, Pipsqueak, the CMC, and Twist run. Magneto takes a sing post and uses it to catch Arline.

“NO!” Annie said as she is dragged away.

“Come foal. We have much to discuss.” The two then float away.

“Arline!” Featherweight said as the group stare in shock.

“What he gonna do to her?” Sweetie asked and Twilight runs to the castle to see if Fire’ is okay.

==================================================================

Later in Magneto's hideout, which is an old train station and has a pile of old TVs, he has Arline pinned against a wall. “Forgive me for this horrid place. It’s a temporary refuge. This is where they have driven me to.”

“Let me go. You can’t do this.”

“I do what must be done.” Magneto then uses his powers to turn on a television set. The set shows a Unicorn with a black mane, a gray coat making a speech.

“We can clearly see what mutants are capable of in the wake of Stormwalls’s attack. Mutants must be controlled. You can’t have these so-called ponies running ramped.” The stallion said.

“US Senator Kelly.” Magneto said. “A leader in mutant segregation, and hatred!”

“Mutants must be identified. There births must be regulated, for the sake of our normal pony foals.” Magneto then turns off the TV.

“As a colt, I was locked away in a facility. Experimented on. I finally fled for my life. And I've been running ever since.” He said.

“I know how that feels. To be on the run all the time. To always live in fear.” Arline said to him.

“You cannot be that blind. The ponies will segregate us, ostracize us, and eventually exterminate us. They destroy any one who is different. Even among their own kind.”

==================================================================

At Celestia’s and Luna’s thrown room, Team Avatar, Featherweight, Pipsqueak and Twist are telling Celestia and Luna about Annie and Magneto. “So these two are mutants.” Celestia said.

“Yeah. Magneto is the evil one. Arline just wants to find this special school is all.” Twilight said to her mentor.

“Ugh, guys, I think we should stay out of this.”

“I agree Sweetie. This is between the mutants.”

“There you two go again, talking about mutants like there so different from us.” Blitz said to the two sisters. “Were all ponies!”

“We know that, were just saying were still interfering.” Blitz then glares at them before turning to the others.

“So what are we gonna do?”

“I gonna asked the build team make some miniaturized force filed generators to counteract whatever magnetic filed he's using.” Shining said.

“Brilliant.” Rarity said.

“I has no idea what y’all said, but it sounds like a hoot.” Applejack said.

“Your gonna give all of us a shield?” Rainbow asked him.

“Ugh, no. I don’t think we have enough time for that, but if you guys stay close, you’ll be fine.”

“Why don’t I feel convinced?” Blitz said.

==================================================================

At Magneto’s hideout, Arline is trying to use her telekinesis. “Fire.’ Twilight. Scootaloo. Featherweight. Can you here me?” But the brace that has her tie down squeezes slightly. Magneto then walks up to her.

“I have this sanctum fortified with the same anti-psychic tech that lines my helmet. Your telepathy is useless hear.” He then loosens the grip of the clamp. “Your powers are strong, foal. I could teach you how to use them.”

“No! Never! I hate you! You're just as evil as the most ignorant PONIES!” She then uses her telepathy and tosses a barrel and a box at him. When he hits the floor, Arline levitates a large pice of concert and throws it at Magneto. But Magneto tightens the grip of the clamp, forcing Annie to stop. He then walks up to her again.

“You will help me wage my war, or I will hunt down your family.” Magneto turns on the TV again, still showing Kelly again.

“This is not a false alarm to shock the world. Mutants are very real and very dangerous and they must be controlled!" Kelly said.

“Thus far I have approach the situation the wrong way. We can't make then see our side with these foals. You will make it look like a natural cause. No mutant can be blame for a heart attack.” He then uses his powers to pull out some railroad spikes and points them to Annie. “And if you don’t, you and everypony you love will suffer.” He then throws them at the TV showing Kelly, destroying it.

==================================================================

The Avatars, along with Celestia, Luna and some royal guards are flying around Canterlot, looking for any sing of Annie or Magneto. “We’ve been up all night and were still not picking up any magnetic signatures.” Fire’ said, holding the same device Shining used to find Magneto the first time. They then head for the castle when Fire’ gets something. “Wait. I’m picking up something. It’s faint and its coming from those storage areas.” They land and head inside.

“It looks like were too late.” Luna said as they enter.

“We need to be ...” But before Celestia could finish, she breaks a wire and sets off a bomb set to explode in 2 seconds. “Carful.” The bomb then explodes, but when the smoke clears, Fire’ conjured up a red shield that protected them from the blast.

“That was a close one.” Agua said after the smoke cleared. “Magneto is making sure no one is following him.”

“And according to the criminal database, that would include everypony.” Twilight said over a communicator. “Boat loads of secret government agencies and something called the Weapons X Project. Looks like Magneto’s real name is Magnus.”

“Whoa.” Rainbow said. “Look at his record, this guy is competing with somepony called Doctor Doom, Discord and Queen Chrysalis for the super villain of the century award.”

“All right, we gotta find Arline. Lets spit up. We’ll go all day if we have to.”

“Fire.’ Agua. Terra. Blitz. It’s Arline.”

“Whoa. Where are you?” Terra asked.

“Is that on our communicators?” Blitz asked.

“What is on your communicators?” Captain Lance asked.

“Annie’s voice. And no.” Fire’ said. “It’s in our heads. It’s telepathy.”

“I’m on a roof on a corner at main street near the city hall. Please hurry.” The entire group heard. The group then fly over as fast as they can.

==================================================================

At city hall, US Senator Kelly is making a speech. In the crowd is Rarity and Sweetie Belle. “I am here to talk about my proposal, Proposition X.” Kelly said over a microphone. “The worldwide mutant control act. My proposal seeks to identify mutants, even before there born. And register them as we would register a gun.” Unknown to Kelly, Magneto is watching him from the roof of a building with hatred in his eyes. He has Arline with him.

“You see, already they treat us like objects. As weapons. If this stallion comes to power, every mutant will be hunted down.” Magneto said to Arline.

“Mutants are a genetic mishap. An unnatural product of nature. A disease that must be controlled before it gets out of hoof.” Kelly stated.

“Make it look just like another normal act of the nature he so embraces. A heart attack.” Magneto said to Arline, who then begins to use her telekinesis, but stops.

“I wont. Pony life? Every form of life is precious.”

“You are a weak fool.” Magneto said as he flies up into the air. “Your parents will suffer. Buts first ...” Magneto then pulls out some railroad spikes. “YOU!” He then sends the spike at her, but Fire’ incinerates them.

“Firebrand!”

“The silver blooded buffoon returns. BE GONE!” Magneto then fires a magnetic blast, but the belt Fire’ made blocks it. “Amusing trick.” Magneto said as he lands.

“We got a million of them, mate!” Blitz said as he shocks Magneto. Magneto turns around, but doesn't see Agua as she sends a wave of water at him, knocking Magneto over the ledge.

Terra then arrives and metalbends the steel beam from Arline. “Arline get out of here! Go!” Terra said to her.

“Be carful. You don’t know how strong he is!” Annie then flies away.

Magneto flies back up and tosses Fire’ to a nearby building. Kelly and the crowd below see this. “Whats going on up there?” Kelly asked. He then sees Magneto. “Is that a mutant!” Agua and Terra try to attack, but Magneto uses his powers to take control over their weapons and tosses them toward Celestia and Luna, knocking them over. He then floats over to Fire.’

“You interrupt the good work. I have no sympathy for anyone who stands in my way!” Magneto said as he begins to use the silver in Fire’s blood to slowly crush him. Blitz fires off a lightning bolt, but Magneto creates a magnetic shield and deflects and disperses the lightning, with each new bolt hitting some buildings.

“Uh oh.” Blitz said as Magneto controls the armor he's wearing, sending him across some buildings. Some debris falls to the crowd below. Kelly runs but sees that a large chunk is about to fall on him.

He freezes out of fear, but the blocks stop in midair. “What?” Kelly then sees Arline is the one who saved him. He then notices that Arline is a Pegasus, not a Unicorn. A news crew sees this and records it. “Saved, by one of them?”

Fire’ gets out of the building and sees Arline below. He then sees some debris falling above her. “No!” He flies over and incinerates the derbies, including the ones above Kelly. He then flies up to where Magneto is.

Magneto is still making Blitz hit buildings. “I ... cant ... move!” Blitz said as he is pined to a wall. “I need to get this armor off.” Blitz said as he struggles to take off the armor. Magneto than flick him across the city. Fire’ than tackles Magneto and sends him inside a building. Fire’ flies over to see if Magneto is out. A steal guarded then hits Fire.’

Fire’ recovers I time and sees Magneto above him. “Now it ends.” Magneto fires a magnetic blast, but the shield Fire’ built blocks it. “I see you have some control over magnetism.” Magneto said as he struggles to break the shield. “Very well then.” He then uses all the loose metal around him and attacks Fire’ with them. “You are a very clever and frustrating foe, and when I finally get to you, I'll twist you into abstract art with the silver in your blood!” He then crushes tow cars on Fire’ and creates a giant ball around Fire,’ trapping him.

“I cant give up now.” Fire’ said.

“Guys,” Fire’ heard in his head, “listen to me. You have to get his helmet off him. It protects him from my mental powers.”

“And how are we gonna do that, Arline? Ask him politely?”

“I’m flying up now. You have to do something.”

“No! It’s too dangers! Terra told you to run!” But Arline doesn't listen and lands on a nearby roof. “Twilight, I could use some bright ideas here.”

“Stop with defense and try offense when he's not expecting it.”

“Got it. Going super nova hot now!” Fire’ then creates a small explosion and incinerated most of the metal into ash. He then launches a fireball at Magneto, sending him flying.

“Fire,’ get him!” Rainbow said over the communicator. Magneto lands on the roof Arline is on, but he doesn't notice her. He then jumps up into the air and presses Fire’ against the floor, crushing him slowly.

“Pathetic. You really weren't much of an advisory. Lucky, yes. Crafty, perhaps. But worthy, no.” Magneto said to Fire,’ not noticing Agua behind him.

“I feel the same way about you!” She said as she removes Magneto’s helmet, showing he has a blue coat and a white mane.

“NO!” Magneto screamed as Arline uses her powers to put him on the floor.

“I want you to just take a nap.” She said as Magneto collapses, unconscious. Celestia and Luna arrive and stare at Arline. “Don’t worry, he’ll wake up, in a few days.”

“Hopefully inside a plastic prison.” Fire’ said as he takes Arline to the ground where Kelly prepares to get in his white limo.

“There she is!” Kelly said, pointing an accusing hoof at Arline. “She’s a mutant! She's the cause of all of this!” He said to the same camera-pony who recorded Arline saving Kelly.

“Are you out of your mind?” Fire’ said as he points to Kelly. “She saved your life!”

“Thats right!” Silver Spoon said. “She save all our lives!” Soon the crowd begins to back up Fire’ and Arline, and against Kelly.

“I think you should leave, Kelly.” Blitz said to him. “Before your followers turn on you.” The crowd then throws junk and other things at Kelly. Kelly then gets in his limo and his driver leaves as more trash and other items continue to fly at him.

==================================================================

The next morning at the middle school, Team Avatar, the main six, Shining and Cadence tell the CMC, Featherweight, Pipsqueak, and Twist about what happened yesterday. “Yeah.” Fire’ said to them, “After the camera crew saw Kelly spew his hatred on a filly who saved his life, his supporters bailed. He doesn't have a platform to stand on now.”

“He deserves it.” Sweetie said.

“I see you two have change your minds on mutants.” Blitz said to the two white unicorns.

“We never said we didn't like Arline or mutants.” Sweetie said.

“Right, we just don’t like evil mutants.” Rarity said. The group then see Diamond Tiara harassing Arline agin.

“Your a mutant!” Tiara said. “Show us your powers, mutie. Your just a freak. You don’t have any friends. Never will.” Tiara said, oblivious to the fact that the group is behind her.

“Oh she has plenty of friends.” Scootaloo said to Tiara.

“You wanna do something about it, tough girl?” Fire’ said to her.

“Tiara.” The group see that its Silver Spoon who called out her name. “The reason we were friends for all these years was because I thought you were fun. But after seeing you harass the mare that saved me, were not anymore.” Spoon said, shocking Tiara.

“I ... I was only kidding.” Tiara then runs as fast as she can.

“Bout time you saw what she really is.” Apple Bloom said to Silver Spoon.

“Yeah. Sorry for bullying you.” Spoon said to Arline.

“Its all right, and thanks guys, but I think from now on I can take care of myself without my powers. Unless somepony really ticks me off." Arline and the others chuckled a little. You guys trusted me, now I want to trust something to you, my real name.”

“Arline isn't your real name, sugar cube?”

“No, Applejack.”

“Oh, oh, is Orange Menace? Red Thought?” Pinkie asked.

“No, no. It’s Eastern. Eastern Runner (pony version of Jean Grey).”

“I like that even more than Arline.” Featherweight said.

“There you are.” The school ponies recognize the voice and see Miss Cheerilee walking over to them.

“Miss Cheerilee? What are you doing here?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“I heard about Arline here and remembered an old friend of my who can help." Cheerilee said to the group. "He’s a mutant too.”

“He is?” Scootaloo asked with a very confused face.

“Yes. I called him and he decided to come pick Arline up for his school. Oh, here he comes now.” She then points to a stallion with a white coat and no mane, he's also in a wheel chair that has a X on the back, that's like his cutie mark.

“Hello, Miss Arline. My name is Professor Charles X.” He said as Eastern walks up to him. “My old friend, Miss Cheerilee, told me that you are looking for a certain insatiate I run. A school for mutants. I too have similar abilities.” Professor X said inside Eastern's mind, smiling. “You won’t have to feel alone ever again.” Eastern then smiles and looks at her friends.

==================================================================

In the Fire Nation prison, Prince Zuko is walking through the halls to Iroh's cell and the guard is alerted to his presence. He readies his spear and points to Zuko. “You again? Stop where you are.” Zuko then raises his head. “Prince Zuko...”

Zuko then grabs the guard by the collar and slams him against the wall. “I'm going in for a visit, you're going to stand guard here, and no one is going to hear about this.” Zuko releases the guard and enters Iroh's cell. “Uncle, it's me.” Iroh, who is sitting on the floor, turns away from Zuko with a scowl on his face.