The Spirits of Manaby CamlioChaptersChapter 1Chapter 2Chapter 3Chapter 4Chapter 5 "The End of Act One"Chapter 6Chapter 1I do not own the rights to My little pony Friendship is magic or The Mana series games. Please support the official releases. In the skies above the town of Ponyville a young man with long auburn hair sits astride a white winged beast. Eight phantom shapes float around him one of the shapes which looked like a woman made from wood and growing palm tree leaves for hair spoke. "Young master, while you are indeed a hero to all I still believe that this mission is a bit too hard for one so young." A second shape which looked like a rabbit-elf child playing with the wind spoke next. "I gotta agree with Dryad buddy, this job is going to be difficult, heck your reviving a Mana Tree for crying out loud! One that's been dead for over a millennium. That's not a walk in the park and until you find our spirits here we can't help you. Not to mention you won't be able to use the Mana Sword." The young man smiled reassuringly towards the two phantoms. "Dryad, Jinn, will both of you please relax? I had already figured out most of that. This world seems peaceful enough that my normal sword should suffice besides I can call upon one of you for magic at any time right?" The spirits nod. "Well you can decide who gets to tag along amongst yourselves... Flammie Take us down please." At the young man's words the White winged beast flew downwards landing gently on the room of a schoolhouse. Which the young man flipped to the ground next too with practiced ease. -MANA- The day was shaping up to be another glorious summer day in Ponyville and the last day of school before summer break. The Colts and Fillies were actually paying attention to the guest speaker that the teacher Miss Cheerilee had asked to teach today. A lavender mare with a raven blue mane with purple and pink streaks through it. She was the one and only Twilight Sparkle, element of Magic and student of Princess Celestia who ruled the country alongside her sister Luna, who had also been roped into teaching while attempting to visit Twilight. Ten minutes till the bell and Luna received a rather strange question, though the voice was from an older male and definitely from outside the classroom. "Your Highness if I may ask? What is the basic understanding of magic and how it is categorized?" Nopony turned to see the visitor instead wanting to know the answer themselves. With a smile and nod from Twilight, Luna began the lecture. "Magic, In Equestria it is a common sight to see a Unicorn performing it. There are several schools of magic and each is tied to one of the Eight elemental spirits of Mana, though only four are ever used, these four are." Luna's horn lit up as a scratch on the nose of a certain tom-coltish orange pegasus vanished with a flash of green. "Restoration: Used mainly in the medical field this school allows for the treatment of wounds and injuries and other ailments, being the main reason that pony-kind is so healthy as a whole. It is tied with the Spirit of Wood. Dryad" Her Horn glowed a second time as a flower that was dying on the teacher's desk sprung back to life with a brown glow. "Manipulation: The ability to create objects is a myth though altering things that already exist is entirely possible and this school is believed to be able to be accessed by Earth Ponies on a natural level when they are farming. It is tied with the Spirit of Earth. Gnome" She spread her wings and flapped them twice before continuing. "Flight and Weather: While rarely used it is possible for unicorns to perform this school of magic, although it is mainly left in the capable hooves and wings of the Pegasi who can access these skills naturally. It is tied with the Spirit of Wind. Jinn" Her horn glowed once again and she vanished with a pop and flash of light only to walk back into the class room with a smile now knowing who the visitor was. "and finally Shields and Teleportation: The spells in this school are extremely powerful and hard to perform yet those who can accomplish this are often expected to do great things. The Famous Captain of the Royal Guard turned Prince Shining Armor is one of the most well renowned users of this magical school. It is tied to the Spirit of Light. Wisp" Luna smiled and noticed that a few hooves had shot skyward now knowing the lecture was done. "Princess Luna? I have a question." A Marshmallow white unicorn filly with a purple and pink mane and tail, asked and being the only unicorn to raise their hoof was responded too with the other children setting down their hooves conceding that she should ask. "If those spirits of magic really are there why can't anypony see them?" The same voice from earlier started to respond after a chuckle. "That is a good question young one but, I have an answer." The voice said as it's owner entered the room revealing a young man with long auburn hair, he wore soft looking armor more suited to arid climates and had the sheath of a Shining Golden sword strapped to his back, with a regular sword strapped to his belt. "You see young unicorn, the reason you cannot see the spirits is because they are sleeping. When they are needed they will make themselves known. On that I can guarantee." With that simple explanation the bell rang and the students were too exited to be free from school to freak out about the unknown and very well armed creature that had just answered Sweetie Belle's question. The same couldn't be said for the three older ponies in the room, while Luna had seen the visitor she shrugged off his strange appearance to being dizzy from teleportation so seeing as he was still the same she couldn't help but, ask. "Who and what are you?" The young man bowed politely and spoke. "My apologies, my name is Ferrik and I'm the Knight of Mana." Author's Notes~ For those who haven't played Children of Mana here's what Ferrik, Jinn, Dryad, and Flammie look like. (Ferrik) (Jinn) (Dryad) (And Flammie) Chapter 2I do not own the rights to My Little Pony Friendship is magic or the Mana Series games. Please Support the official releases. Taking a moment to process the youth's words Twilight was trying to figure out exactly what a Knight of Mana was, while she was doing this Luna stared at the phantom that had appeared behind Ferrik. "Ferrik I don't mean to alarm you but, there seems to be an apparition floating behind you." At Luna's words the phantom revealed itself to the three. "Oh... I'm sorry, I'm the spirit of Dreams and Lunar magic..." The soft voice of the spirit trailed off much like a certain butterscotch colored pegasus Luna had met a while back. "I'm sorry, I couldn't hear your name. Could you please repeat it?" Luna inquired as Twilight gazed on when Ferrik sighed. "Princess Luna, Twilight Sparkle, May I introduce the Mana spirit of Moon. Luna." As he said this the phantom faded into existence revealing a small fairy child holding a pearl floating in a winged harness that glowed like the full moon. Her eyes were closed and she seemed to be asleep yet her voice carried on. "A pleasure to meet you both." She said softly, her voice being carried from her sleep through the pearl she held. Twilight looked between the two Lunas for a few seconds before giggling which earned her a concerned look from the princess of the Moon. "What is so funny Twilight Sparkle? I don't believe anypony here has said a joke?" She then looked to Ferrik who merely shook his head with a smile. "There wasn't a joke My lady. The reason she's laughing may be that the word Luna is another word to describe Moon and so far everypony she's met with that name has been tied to it in some way. Am I correct?" Ferrik asked which earned a nod from the Unicorn as she gathered her composure again. "Ah yes before I forget, Spirit of the Moon. Since there is a higher authority involved in the Lunar magic in this realm I need you to stay with the Princess. Is that alright?" The fairy child managed a week nod to Ferrik's question before her pearl glowed once more. "To avoid confusion please call me Moonstone for the time being Princess. It is my honor to serve you." At those words the spirit floated around Luna in three circles before vanishing into her giving Luna a brief glow. "W-What just happened?" Luna and Twilight asked with worried looks towards Ferrik. "Oh right, Moonstone has lent her powers to you, I'll let her explain it though." At that both Luna and Twilight looked confused before Moonstone appeared before them once more although now chained to Luna's horn like a magical leash. "You see Princess we spirits are made from magic itself and in turn it comes from us. We have no physical forms due to this and can grant larger amounts of our powers by binding ourselves to those we wish to grant power too. This is called a Blessing. We can Bless as many beings as we wish but, our powers are limited by individual." Ferrik points to the chain displays how a faint pulse of energy flows from Moonstone to Luna every few minutes. "In order to exist alongside those who use magic the Spirits grant us their powers. This is the essence of the blessing. But, I really need to ask a question of you Princess. Is there anypony amongst your subjects with the power to speak with animals? Perhaps even understand them?" Twilight and Princess Luna share a knowing glance then nod. -MANA- "Okay Angel Bunny, it's time for lunch." A Butterscotch pegasus mare with a pink rose mane and tail spoke softly to a small white rabbit as she laid a carrot out for it. Only for it to be rejected by said rabbit. "Oh Angel Bunny... what will I ever do with you?" She asked not expecting an answer and was extremely surprised when she got one. "Maybe if ya stopped giving me Raw carrots we wouldn't have issues like this now would we Fluttershy?" The Rabbit placed his paws over is mouth at the resulting squeak from Fluttershy. "Wow... she looked like she just heard me talk... wait... She heard me talk?!" At this outburst a phantom shaped like a woman made from a palm tree appeared over the unconscious mare. "I see she does posses my blessing. Strange... I wouldn't have expected any being from here to actually have the Forest Speak skill." At this the spirit faded into existence. Revealing the spirit of Nature and Healing, Dryad. *Knock-Knock* "Fluttershy? It's me, Twilight! Are you alright?" At the sound of the unicorn's voice Fluttershy stood up and dashed for the door hiding behind her lavender unicorn friend as she entered. "Oh Twilight I'm scared... there is a strange lady in my house and I could hear what my animals said and eeep!" She turned to see Ferrik walk into the house and tried to make herself invisible behind Princess Luna who she just noticed enter her much larger stature making this particularly easy. "Sorry, I forgot to introduce you. Fluttershy this is Ferrik he's a human knight who is in the bearer of the Mana Sword." Ferrik nodded at Twilight's description and bowed to the Pegasus. "Terribly sorry about frightening you but, may I ask what this 'Strange lady' looked like?" After he said that the tree-like woman floated into view. "Ah young Master Ferrik. It's a pleasure to see you again. I was just checking up on this young lady to confirm if she had naturally earned my blessing and to my surprise she had." The Tree spirit said with a smile which earned a blank stare from the three ponies present. "She has the blessing of Forest Speak? I guess you must have awakened it fully and that's what scared her." He said to which Dryad nodded. "You see Dryad is the Spirit of Nature and Healing, Fluttershy must embody her skills so well that she had earned a partial portion of her powers. When Dryad sensed this she came to give her the rest... Am I correct?" Dryad nodded before performing the Binding process with Fluttershy who glowed for a moment before passing out as the adrenaline faded. Chapter 3I do not own My Little Pony Friendship is magic or the Mana Series games. Please support the official releases. In the fields of Sweet Apple Acres an Orange mare with a stetson upon her head had just finished her honest days work but, when she was attempting to leave the orchard a strange little figure with a large bushy beard sat in her path. He waved cheerfully at her as she approached him. "G'day to ye lass. A mighty fine crop of Apples ye have here. May I inquire as te who owns these lands and by what name be they know?" The figure said in a coltish accent which caused the mare to chuckle at how jovial the tiny figure sounded. "Well shoot, this is Sweet Apple Acres and it's been in the Family for Generations. Mah name's Applejack by the way, where did ya come from pardner?" Applejack said as she delivered a swift buck to a nearby tree allowing a single apple to fall into the figures lap and one into her waiting front hoof. "Ah a fine name for a fine lass, meh name is Gnome the spirit of Earth and Land. I be in charge of Growing things ye see. So farming be in me blood." As the figure stood up it was revealed that he was sitting on a sapling that had withered earlier in the day and as he stood in front of it he sighed. "Tis a shame when the land gives nae roots to her children. Tis when my gift shines like the sun above sure enough." As the little figure spoke Applejack was trying to figure out just what he was trying to do before the sapling not only sprung to life but grew a bushel of healthy apples within seconds. "But, what... how?" Was all Applejack was able to say before the tiny spirit started to spin around her. "Ah ye, have the gift ye do. With a bit of a push ye could be a greater farmer then ye already are." After the binding process was finished Gnome appeared before her again. "I've just given ye some of meh powers lass, use them in good health eh?" And with that the spirit vanished into thin air. "What in tar-nation did he mean powers?" Applejack got her answer when she kicked a dead tree in frustration only for it to spring to life bearing healthy fruit. "Well I'll be..." -Mana- A young man with blue hair silently approached Ponyville. "A second chance to save the world huh, and all I gotta do is find this Ferrik kid and help him out?" The young man asked his garb was that of a desert thief which he was, once a proud member of the noble Navarre Bandits before they became a villainous organization hell-bent on conquering the world, he took his leave of them shortly after an insidious plot to frame him for killing his lover's brother and his best friend came to light. His twin silver daggers glowed red with the power of the spirit he spoke with. A lizard like being who glowed like living flames. "You got it... You were chosen by the Mana sword as well as Ferrik so I thought he could use the help of someone with more experience in the field of world saving." The spirit spoke with a bit of impatience in his voice as if this was common knowledge. "So the basic plan is for me to run in, train the rookie and make sure to help him if he gets into a jam?" The spirit nodded to the Thief's question. "Alright just tell me where to go-" The Thief's train of thought was halted as he was nearly tackled by a multicolored blur but, his heightened reflexes allowed him to duck his assailant at the last moment and shift into a combat stance. "Who are you and why are sneaking around like that?!" The blur said as it came to rest revealing an Irate cyan pegasus mare with a rainbow colored mane and tail. "And to top it off how did you dodge that?!" "I didn't just dodge." The thief said with a confidant smirk as he relaxed his stance and held up a cyan feather to the stunned pegasus. "And for the record the noise of wings is not that easy to keep hidden especially when being used for speed. But, never the less we should do this again sometime. It was fun." He said as he turned from the mare and vanished into the shadows being cast in the setting sun. "Oh it's on blue hair." Rainbow Dash said as she flew up to her cloud house to rest for the night completely unaware that she was being watched by the same blue haired thief. Chapter 4I do not own the rights to My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic or The Mana Series games. Please support the official releases. A figure garbed head to toe in red stood before an assortment of beasts and fiends. He spoke with a deceptively kind voice that could lead anyone who heard him speak to believe he was a man of noble intent. This was not the case as he had proven once before when he helped destroy the Mana tree in this dimension many millennium ago. "And so a new hero attempts to right the flow of life and return the Mana to this world proper. Sadly I cannot permit this act... Chobin Hood!" A humanoid mouse wearing a cloak and hood stepped forward at the call of it's name. "Find this hero and any allies he may have and kill them all. Leave none alive, if you fail or attempt to defect I will send the Mantis Ant after you." A massive beast clacked it's mandibles and drooled at the prospect of tasting Pony flesh. "You have your orders... GO!" The Chobin hood knew better than to question his master's orders and ran off in the direction of Fluttershy's cottage. -MANA- Luna had left with the spirit of the Moon while Fluttershy recounted what happened. "So that's why you were so frightened... Then again if I was hearing an animal speak to me in a manner I could understand for the first time I would be shocked too." Ferrik said with a chuckle as a glint of light caught the corner of his eye. "Yes, and if my memory of that event hasn't faded you tried to attack the poor frog with Wisp's power screaming it was possessed by the Mana Lord's evil magic." Dryad said with a giggle which caused Ferrik to facepalm before he drew his sword and swung into the open air just over Twilight's head. "Ferrik! What are you doing you could've-" Twilight's comment was cut short by the arrow pieces halves fell down in front of her. Ferrik had sliced the offending projectile to defend his new found friends. The Chobin Hood was not pleased, seeing it's first shot failed it proceeded to knock another arrow this time chanting a spell before firing. "Get down!" Ferrik cried out as he stepped in front of the next arrow that gleamed with a sick purple haze. 'Crap Poison Arrow... not enough time to dodge or deflect it...' He thought as he held up his sword in a last ditch attempt to guard only for the arrow to be halted by a glowing shield made of powder blue magic. "If you have anyone who can get the creature to stand down and switch sides that would be nice!" A powder blue unicorn mare shouted her horn lit up with the same aura as the shield's color. "Fluttershy, please speak with it and see if you can get it to stop. I would rather not have to kill it." Ferrik said the last part with the tone of someone who had done enough of it already. Fluttershy meekly complied and after a minute or two she returned to the group. "She said she would love to help us but, even if she did the mean man who sent her would still send a beast called a Mantis Ant." Fluttershy said as the Chobin Hood approached the group with a sad look on it's face. "Well if she wants to help that's fine. I can handle a mantis ant and besides... we can use all the help we can get." Ferrik said with a smile and nod towards the Powder blue unicorn that had approached the group. "Wait... Trixie?" Twilight said with an inquiring look. To which the unicorn could only make a sullen nod. "I came to ask for forgiveness for what happened last time..." Twilight pulled Trixie into a hug. "You saved Ferrik! Of coarse I forgive you. By the way... when did you learn such a powerful shield spell?" "That would be my doing Lady Sparkle." A voice came from nowhere which soon took root into a ball of glowing white light. "I am known as Wisp the spirit of Light. My magic is mostly known for it's defensive properties and I'm afraid your history is a bit mistaken... Teleportation is not in my list of skills. That honor belongs to the spirit of the Moon which I'm sure you've met." The glowing spirit said with a feminine voice. "But, she digresses. Wisp asked me if I would help the Hero of Mana in his quest in exchange for a boost to my spells. I agreed as soon as she told me where I needed to go." Trixie said with a smile towards Twilight. "Well it's getting late... Shouldn't we all get some sleep? From what I've learned from Wisp the Mantis Ant hunts during the day and even then prefers to wait in a den like an Ant Lion. So we should be safe for the night. The young knight can stay in my wagon for the night." Trixie said with a smile to which the group agreed. -MANA- As Ferrik entered the wagon he gave off a low whistle. "Wow, this wagon looks a lot bigger on the inside." He said as he placed his weapons and armor next to the bed taking note that there was only one. "I guess I'll be sleeping on the floor or couch." Ferrik thought as he detached the Sword of Mana from him it changed into a glowing sphere and vanished until it was needed once more, to anyone or anypony watching it would look like it entered his chest and came to rest within his heart. "I'm sorry about the lack of a guest bed but, I didn't really expect to have company..." Trixie said as she exited the washroom freshly cleaned from her shower. "The shower's free if you need it, oh and your welcome to share the bed... it's big enough for the both of us." Trixie said trying to hide her blushing face from the young knight as she climbed onto the bed. Ferrik waved as he entered the washroom and set aside a towel and fresh clothes before his mind caught on to what just happened. "D-Does Trixie like me?" He said quietly to himself before shrugging it off and readying for bed. Chapter 5 "The End of Act One"I do not own the rights to My Little Pony Friendship is magic or the Mana Series games. Please support the official releases. It was another quiet night in Canterlot and as the residents slept a young man did what he did best... Relive stuck up higher class of their wealth to give to those in need. *Click* "I miss the days when the Navarre thieves guild was as noble as I am still. Back then this was fun." The blue haired man commented after taking several hundred bits from the vault of one Prince Blueblood. "Well, I guess this is as much as I can take for now... Not like this guy needs it from what I heard." He said with a smile as he placed his stolen goods on his back, and started to leave the manor only to be ambushed by it's owner himself. "Halt! Who are you and why did you just leave my vault room?!" The arrogance in the stallion's voice was easy to pick out of his tone. "Y-Your a thief! You've stolen from me?!" The shocked look on the stallion's face caused the blue haired thief to laugh loudly. "Wow... I thought I would have to explain that... But, seeing as you've figured out what I did, allow me a moment to explain why. You see I only take from those who take their lavish lifestyles for granted and give my hauls to those who are more deserving." The thief said with a smile as a bird call sounded from outside. "And from what I've heard a pack of beasts would be more deserving than you. Take care now and thank you for your donation." The thief said with a smile and liberal application of a smoke bomb before dashing out of the mansion's second floor window and vanishing into the night. -MANA- "That was awesome Blue Hair! I've never seen someone do something like that before. Well at least not for good reasons." Rainbow Dash said as the pair approached Ponyville's Town square. The Thief had given his entire haul to the orphanage on the edge of town getting a tearful hug from the pony who ran it. "It's the oath of the Navarre thieves guild Ms. Dash, we are sworn to only steal from those who would not miss what we take and give to those who need it more." Dash could see the visual change in his expression as he finished his little speech. When it started he was happy and after he muttered something under his breath he looked like someone just poured poison joke on his head. "What's wrong Blue Hair? You look a little down in the face..." Dash said with a concerned tone, while not usually one for being overly concerned stating that being soft "Isn't Cool" she was still the element of Loyalty and that meant making sure her friends were alright. "I was just remembering what happened to them, it all started when the master of the guild. My best friend's father met a woman called Isabella." He then explained the story of how Isabella killed his best friend and framed him for the deed, how she cursed his lover with an enchanted collar that would kill her if he proved he was innocent to her. How she was actually a spy sent in by an evil man called the Dark Prince that wanted to take over the world. "Wow... That's just... Wow... you've had it pretty hard huh?" Dash said with a sad look as she placed a comforting hoof on the thief's shoulder. "Yes. The past is the past though and it's time to look to the future, the guild can always be started again as long as one remembers the ways it was run." The thief said with a smile as he began to pick up speed as they entered the town square proper. "Thank you for your time Ms. Dash, my name is Hawk by the way, so don't hesitate to give me a shout if you need me. A bird call will always get my attention. It was the way we called each other in Navarre." He said with a wave as he jump up the side of a house and vanished into the shadows of the night once more. "That guy is... SO AWESOME!" Dash said with a smile as she returned to her cloud house thinking of how she look in the garb of the Navarre Thieves guild. -MANA- Deep within the Everfree forest the Crimson Lotus wizard Koren learned of the defection of his minion the Chobin Hood 'Robin'. "So Robin has abandoned us for the peaceful pony folk eh? Very well. She may meet her end with them as well! Mantis Ant!" At the call the giant insect stepped forward it's mandibles clicking in anticipation. "Go to the town that Robin entered and kill everything. Leave nothing alive in your wake, do I make myself clear?" The beast let out a noise that could be considered laughter and nodded before tunneling it's way through the ground towards the exit of the forest. "And so the game begins. You chosen fools of Mana may have stopped my lord the Dragon Emperor but, you will not be rid of me so easily." Koren laughed manically as he summoned a crystal sphere that showed him where the mantis ant was and the area around it. "And I get the best seats to the show for free." He began laughing again his laugh going unheard in the night as our hero's slept peacefully. Will Ferrik and Hawk be able to stand before the might of the Mantis Ant? Will our hero's quest end before it truly begins? What does Celestia actually know about these events seeing as she summoned Ferrik to begin with?! Do you all like Bananas?! Find out the answers to all these questions and more as act two begins. -Act One End- Chapter 6I do not own the rights to My Little Pony Friendship is Magic or the Mana Series games. Please support the official releases. Ferrik woke up from his slumber in a rather awkward position, after falling asleep on the floor to not inconvenience his hostess Trixie. He was startled to find her sleeping with her head across his chest holding him closely. Sadly trying to move without waking the blue unicorn was impossible so he resigned himself to attempting to get some more sleep. Sadly this was not to be as a knock sounded at the wagon's door. "Ferrik? Trixie? I'm sorry for bothering you so early but, are you both awake? I-If I'm bothering you I'll just come back later..." The timid voice of Fluttershy gave away that she was knocking. This stirred Trixie from her slumber who reacted to her position by blushing and running into the bathroom, leaving Ferrik to answer the door. "Good morning Ms. Fluttershy. Is there something I can help you with?" The young knight said with a smile. Which the Pegasus gratefully returned. "Oh yes, well um... you see a young lady showed up at my house last night and actually mentioned you by name. I'm sorry for not telling you right away but, I thought you might be tired..." Fluttershy hid her face behind her mane afraid that she did something wrong. "It's alright, I'd like to know who they are and besides..." Ferrik's stomach grumbled loudly. "I haven't eaten since I got here... so mind if I join you for breakfast?" The pegasus nodded and the pair left Trixie's wagon with Trixie following closely and apologizing for the rude welcome. -MANA- "Ferrik your alright!" A green haired young woman wearing dancer's garb with a bow strapped to her back tackled the young knight in a hug. "Why did you leave like that you big goof? You could have at least told me where you were going. I didn't tag along with you the last time just for you to leave me behind now." She said with a smile as she released Ferrik. "T-Tamber? How did you get here?" Ferrik said with a smile as he made sure he wasn't dreaming. "That would be my doing young Knight." A majestic and Motherly tone said from behind Ferrik before the entire group realized that they had been teleported inside a large castle, along with the rest of Fluttershy's friends and a certain Blue Haired Thief. "Princess Celestia!" Twilight said with a smile as the ponies in the room bowed followed shortly by the Mana's Chosen. "Good morning to you my faithful student and to your friends and guests as well." The sun princess said with a smile as she looked over the group stopping on Hawk for a moment. "Oh before I forget, Hawk of Navarre please step forward." The princess motioned to just in front of her and Hawk nervously stepped forward. 'Oh I'm so dead... Word on the street is that the princesses are living goddesses... I think a dungeon is the best case scenario here in all honesty." Hawk thought to himself as he approached Celestia. Celestia stared at Hawk, her warm smile never leaving her face. "Hawk you have been reported for stealing 700 bits from the Manor of Prince Blueblood, is this true?" The thief only nodded seeing no reason to lie. This caused a few of the ponies present to gasp in shock. "Normally this type of situation would call for a few days in the dungeon but, due to what you did with the stolen goods I believe I can overlook it as long as you promise not to rob another of my little ponies again." Hawk nodded and bowed before the Princess. "You have my oath that I shall not steal from another of your subjects again your majesty." Hawk said clearly and without a hint of false intentions. "The Navarre Thieves pride themselves on their honor, a shame that I am the only one left." He said sadly. Celestia nodded and leaned her head close to Hawk so only he could hear what she said next. "If you promise that you can keep them out of trouble I bet some of my little ponies would be interested in your guild. Remember that it's only illegal if you get found out right?" She said which caused Hawk to nod with a knowing smile. 'I like this princess already.' He thought as he stepped back with a bow. "Take care of yourselves my little ponies. Ferrik, Tamber, Hawk. Please keep my little ponies safe from the creatures that our enemy uses." The three nodded and bowed before the group was teleported from the Palace. "I just hope they're strong enough..." She added sadly after the group vanished. -MANA- Twilight approached Hawk and stared at him. "What did you do with 700 bits anyway?" She asked curious as to how the Thief could be penniless once more after stealing such a large amount of money. "I gave all of it to that struggling orphanage at the edge of your town." He said with a calm smile as he started to walk away from the group. "Oh and by the way, if any of you need me just use a bird call." The thief performed said call to make sure they knew what he was talking about before dashing off again. Tamber snapped to attention and pulled two objects from the pouch at her side. "Oh Ferrik, Moti told me to give these to you. Said you forgot them." She said with a smile as she held out the Gem Frame and a Wind Drum. As Ferrik took the wind drum he smiled remembering that this was the only way to call the spirit of Flight Flammie. "Thanks Tamber, I can't believe I forgot it... is that a new Gem Frame?" He asked as he took the silver frame in his hands. A marshmallow white unicorn with a styled purple mane and tail perked up at the name of the object. "Excuse me but, might I inquire as to why that's called a Gem Frame?" She eyed the device suspiciously but, when Ferrik pulled a flawless red stone from his pocket and placed it into the frame it became clear. The frame buzzed and glowed with an otherworldly light for several moments before vanishing into Ferrik's pocket. "The Sword Mastery and Sword Expertise Gems?" Ferrik nodded to Tamber's question before unsheathing his sword and firing a shock wave from the blade. When he held it up to guard a glowing shield appeared around him. "I always carried those two and you know it." Ferrik's display was cut short as his stomach grumbled causing the rest of the group to nervously laugh. "Well it's almost lunch and I think we all do need some food. So let's have a spot of Lunch on me." Rarity said with a smile to a large amount of grateful nods towards her famous Generosity. -MANA- The Mantis ant finished building it's nest as Koren's image appeared before it. "I take it that you've finished your preparations." The monster nodded. "Good then you shall strike slowly and carefully. We don't want those fools finding out about me before I'm ready." Koren held up a glowing image of two ponies one Light Blue unicorn and the other a Butterscotch Yellow pegasus. "Bring me these two before you begin your assault they have been around the boy and may know his weakness. Do what you will with them but, I need them alive." The Ant nodded and decided to rest as Koren's image faded. Tonight it would strike. Tonight it would feed on Pony Flesh.
Chapter 1I do not own the rights to My little pony Friendship is magic or The Mana series games. Please support the official releases. In the skies above the town of Ponyville a young man with long auburn hair sits astride a white winged beast. Eight phantom shapes float around him one of the shapes which looked like a woman made from wood and growing palm tree leaves for hair spoke. "Young master, while you are indeed a hero to all I still believe that this mission is a bit too hard for one so young." A second shape which looked like a rabbit-elf child playing with the wind spoke next. "I gotta agree with Dryad buddy, this job is going to be difficult, heck your reviving a Mana Tree for crying out loud! One that's been dead for over a millennium. That's not a walk in the park and until you find our spirits here we can't help you. Not to mention you won't be able to use the Mana Sword." The young man smiled reassuringly towards the two phantoms. "Dryad, Jinn, will both of you please relax? I had already figured out most of that. This world seems peaceful enough that my normal sword should suffice besides I can call upon one of you for magic at any time right?" The spirits nod. "Well you can decide who gets to tag along amongst yourselves... Flammie Take us down please." At the young man's words the White winged beast flew downwards landing gently on the room of a schoolhouse. Which the young man flipped to the ground next too with practiced ease. -MANA- The day was shaping up to be another glorious summer day in Ponyville and the last day of school before summer break. The Colts and Fillies were actually paying attention to the guest speaker that the teacher Miss Cheerilee had asked to teach today. A lavender mare with a raven blue mane with purple and pink streaks through it. She was the one and only Twilight Sparkle, element of Magic and student of Princess Celestia who ruled the country alongside her sister Luna, who had also been roped into teaching while attempting to visit Twilight. Ten minutes till the bell and Luna received a rather strange question, though the voice was from an older male and definitely from outside the classroom. "Your Highness if I may ask? What is the basic understanding of magic and how it is categorized?" Nopony turned to see the visitor instead wanting to know the answer themselves. With a smile and nod from Twilight, Luna began the lecture. "Magic, In Equestria it is a common sight to see a Unicorn performing it. There are several schools of magic and each is tied to one of the Eight elemental spirits of Mana, though only four are ever used, these four are." Luna's horn lit up as a scratch on the nose of a certain tom-coltish orange pegasus vanished with a flash of green. "Restoration: Used mainly in the medical field this school allows for the treatment of wounds and injuries and other ailments, being the main reason that pony-kind is so healthy as a whole. It is tied with the Spirit of Wood. Dryad" Her Horn glowed a second time as a flower that was dying on the teacher's desk sprung back to life with a brown glow. "Manipulation: The ability to create objects is a myth though altering things that already exist is entirely possible and this school is believed to be able to be accessed by Earth Ponies on a natural level when they are farming. It is tied with the Spirit of Earth. Gnome" She spread her wings and flapped them twice before continuing. "Flight and Weather: While rarely used it is possible for unicorns to perform this school of magic, although it is mainly left in the capable hooves and wings of the Pegasi who can access these skills naturally. It is tied with the Spirit of Wind. Jinn" Her horn glowed once again and she vanished with a pop and flash of light only to walk back into the class room with a smile now knowing who the visitor was. "and finally Shields and Teleportation: The spells in this school are extremely powerful and hard to perform yet those who can accomplish this are often expected to do great things. The Famous Captain of the Royal Guard turned Prince Shining Armor is one of the most well renowned users of this magical school. It is tied to the Spirit of Light. Wisp" Luna smiled and noticed that a few hooves had shot skyward now knowing the lecture was done. "Princess Luna? I have a question." A Marshmallow white unicorn filly with a purple and pink mane and tail, asked and being the only unicorn to raise their hoof was responded too with the other children setting down their hooves conceding that she should ask. "If those spirits of magic really are there why can't anypony see them?" The same voice from earlier started to respond after a chuckle. "That is a good question young one but, I have an answer." The voice said as it's owner entered the room revealing a young man with long auburn hair, he wore soft looking armor more suited to arid climates and had the sheath of a Shining Golden sword strapped to his back, with a regular sword strapped to his belt. "You see young unicorn, the reason you cannot see the spirits is because they are sleeping. When they are needed they will make themselves known. On that I can guarantee." With that simple explanation the bell rang and the students were too exited to be free from school to freak out about the unknown and very well armed creature that had just answered Sweetie Belle's question. The same couldn't be said for the three older ponies in the room, while Luna had seen the visitor she shrugged off his strange appearance to being dizzy from teleportation so seeing as he was still the same she couldn't help but, ask. "Who and what are you?" The young man bowed politely and spoke. "My apologies, my name is Ferrik and I'm the Knight of Mana." Author's Notes~ For those who haven't played Children of Mana here's what Ferrik, Jinn, Dryad, and Flammie look like. (Ferrik) (Jinn) (Dryad) (And Flammie)
Chapter 2I do not own the rights to My Little Pony Friendship is magic or the Mana Series games. Please Support the official releases. Taking a moment to process the youth's words Twilight was trying to figure out exactly what a Knight of Mana was, while she was doing this Luna stared at the phantom that had appeared behind Ferrik. "Ferrik I don't mean to alarm you but, there seems to be an apparition floating behind you." At Luna's words the phantom revealed itself to the three. "Oh... I'm sorry, I'm the spirit of Dreams and Lunar magic..." The soft voice of the spirit trailed off much like a certain butterscotch colored pegasus Luna had met a while back. "I'm sorry, I couldn't hear your name. Could you please repeat it?" Luna inquired as Twilight gazed on when Ferrik sighed. "Princess Luna, Twilight Sparkle, May I introduce the Mana spirit of Moon. Luna." As he said this the phantom faded into existence revealing a small fairy child holding a pearl floating in a winged harness that glowed like the full moon. Her eyes were closed and she seemed to be asleep yet her voice carried on. "A pleasure to meet you both." She said softly, her voice being carried from her sleep through the pearl she held. Twilight looked between the two Lunas for a few seconds before giggling which earned her a concerned look from the princess of the Moon. "What is so funny Twilight Sparkle? I don't believe anypony here has said a joke?" She then looked to Ferrik who merely shook his head with a smile. "There wasn't a joke My lady. The reason she's laughing may be that the word Luna is another word to describe Moon and so far everypony she's met with that name has been tied to it in some way. Am I correct?" Ferrik asked which earned a nod from the Unicorn as she gathered her composure again. "Ah yes before I forget, Spirit of the Moon. Since there is a higher authority involved in the Lunar magic in this realm I need you to stay with the Princess. Is that alright?" The fairy child managed a week nod to Ferrik's question before her pearl glowed once more. "To avoid confusion please call me Moonstone for the time being Princess. It is my honor to serve you." At those words the spirit floated around Luna in three circles before vanishing into her giving Luna a brief glow. "W-What just happened?" Luna and Twilight asked with worried looks towards Ferrik. "Oh right, Moonstone has lent her powers to you, I'll let her explain it though." At that both Luna and Twilight looked confused before Moonstone appeared before them once more although now chained to Luna's horn like a magical leash. "You see Princess we spirits are made from magic itself and in turn it comes from us. We have no physical forms due to this and can grant larger amounts of our powers by binding ourselves to those we wish to grant power too. This is called a Blessing. We can Bless as many beings as we wish but, our powers are limited by individual." Ferrik points to the chain displays how a faint pulse of energy flows from Moonstone to Luna every few minutes. "In order to exist alongside those who use magic the Spirits grant us their powers. This is the essence of the blessing. But, I really need to ask a question of you Princess. Is there anypony amongst your subjects with the power to speak with animals? Perhaps even understand them?" Twilight and Princess Luna share a knowing glance then nod. -MANA- "Okay Angel Bunny, it's time for lunch." A Butterscotch pegasus mare with a pink rose mane and tail spoke softly to a small white rabbit as she laid a carrot out for it. Only for it to be rejected by said rabbit. "Oh Angel Bunny... what will I ever do with you?" She asked not expecting an answer and was extremely surprised when she got one. "Maybe if ya stopped giving me Raw carrots we wouldn't have issues like this now would we Fluttershy?" The Rabbit placed his paws over is mouth at the resulting squeak from Fluttershy. "Wow... she looked like she just heard me talk... wait... She heard me talk?!" At this outburst a phantom shaped like a woman made from a palm tree appeared over the unconscious mare. "I see she does posses my blessing. Strange... I wouldn't have expected any being from here to actually have the Forest Speak skill." At this the spirit faded into existence. Revealing the spirit of Nature and Healing, Dryad. *Knock-Knock* "Fluttershy? It's me, Twilight! Are you alright?" At the sound of the unicorn's voice Fluttershy stood up and dashed for the door hiding behind her lavender unicorn friend as she entered. "Oh Twilight I'm scared... there is a strange lady in my house and I could hear what my animals said and eeep!" She turned to see Ferrik walk into the house and tried to make herself invisible behind Princess Luna who she just noticed enter her much larger stature making this particularly easy. "Sorry, I forgot to introduce you. Fluttershy this is Ferrik he's a human knight who is in the bearer of the Mana Sword." Ferrik nodded at Twilight's description and bowed to the Pegasus. "Terribly sorry about frightening you but, may I ask what this 'Strange lady' looked like?" After he said that the tree-like woman floated into view. "Ah young Master Ferrik. It's a pleasure to see you again. I was just checking up on this young lady to confirm if she had naturally earned my blessing and to my surprise she had." The Tree spirit said with a smile which earned a blank stare from the three ponies present. "She has the blessing of Forest Speak? I guess you must have awakened it fully and that's what scared her." He said to which Dryad nodded. "You see Dryad is the Spirit of Nature and Healing, Fluttershy must embody her skills so well that she had earned a partial portion of her powers. When Dryad sensed this she came to give her the rest... Am I correct?" Dryad nodded before performing the Binding process with Fluttershy who glowed for a moment before passing out as the adrenaline faded.
Chapter 3I do not own My Little Pony Friendship is magic or the Mana Series games. Please support the official releases. In the fields of Sweet Apple Acres an Orange mare with a stetson upon her head had just finished her honest days work but, when she was attempting to leave the orchard a strange little figure with a large bushy beard sat in her path. He waved cheerfully at her as she approached him. "G'day to ye lass. A mighty fine crop of Apples ye have here. May I inquire as te who owns these lands and by what name be they know?" The figure said in a coltish accent which caused the mare to chuckle at how jovial the tiny figure sounded. "Well shoot, this is Sweet Apple Acres and it's been in the Family for Generations. Mah name's Applejack by the way, where did ya come from pardner?" Applejack said as she delivered a swift buck to a nearby tree allowing a single apple to fall into the figures lap and one into her waiting front hoof. "Ah a fine name for a fine lass, meh name is Gnome the spirit of Earth and Land. I be in charge of Growing things ye see. So farming be in me blood." As the figure stood up it was revealed that he was sitting on a sapling that had withered earlier in the day and as he stood in front of it he sighed. "Tis a shame when the land gives nae roots to her children. Tis when my gift shines like the sun above sure enough." As the little figure spoke Applejack was trying to figure out just what he was trying to do before the sapling not only sprung to life but grew a bushel of healthy apples within seconds. "But, what... how?" Was all Applejack was able to say before the tiny spirit started to spin around her. "Ah ye, have the gift ye do. With a bit of a push ye could be a greater farmer then ye already are." After the binding process was finished Gnome appeared before her again. "I've just given ye some of meh powers lass, use them in good health eh?" And with that the spirit vanished into thin air. "What in tar-nation did he mean powers?" Applejack got her answer when she kicked a dead tree in frustration only for it to spring to life bearing healthy fruit. "Well I'll be..." -Mana- A young man with blue hair silently approached Ponyville. "A second chance to save the world huh, and all I gotta do is find this Ferrik kid and help him out?" The young man asked his garb was that of a desert thief which he was, once a proud member of the noble Navarre Bandits before they became a villainous organization hell-bent on conquering the world, he took his leave of them shortly after an insidious plot to frame him for killing his lover's brother and his best friend came to light. His twin silver daggers glowed red with the power of the spirit he spoke with. A lizard like being who glowed like living flames. "You got it... You were chosen by the Mana sword as well as Ferrik so I thought he could use the help of someone with more experience in the field of world saving." The spirit spoke with a bit of impatience in his voice as if this was common knowledge. "So the basic plan is for me to run in, train the rookie and make sure to help him if he gets into a jam?" The spirit nodded to the Thief's question. "Alright just tell me where to go-" The Thief's train of thought was halted as he was nearly tackled by a multicolored blur but, his heightened reflexes allowed him to duck his assailant at the last moment and shift into a combat stance. "Who are you and why are sneaking around like that?!" The blur said as it came to rest revealing an Irate cyan pegasus mare with a rainbow colored mane and tail. "And to top it off how did you dodge that?!" "I didn't just dodge." The thief said with a confidant smirk as he relaxed his stance and held up a cyan feather to the stunned pegasus. "And for the record the noise of wings is not that easy to keep hidden especially when being used for speed. But, never the less we should do this again sometime. It was fun." He said as he turned from the mare and vanished into the shadows being cast in the setting sun. "Oh it's on blue hair." Rainbow Dash said as she flew up to her cloud house to rest for the night completely unaware that she was being watched by the same blue haired thief.
Chapter 4I do not own the rights to My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic or The Mana Series games. Please support the official releases. A figure garbed head to toe in red stood before an assortment of beasts and fiends. He spoke with a deceptively kind voice that could lead anyone who heard him speak to believe he was a man of noble intent. This was not the case as he had proven once before when he helped destroy the Mana tree in this dimension many millennium ago. "And so a new hero attempts to right the flow of life and return the Mana to this world proper. Sadly I cannot permit this act... Chobin Hood!" A humanoid mouse wearing a cloak and hood stepped forward at the call of it's name. "Find this hero and any allies he may have and kill them all. Leave none alive, if you fail or attempt to defect I will send the Mantis Ant after you." A massive beast clacked it's mandibles and drooled at the prospect of tasting Pony flesh. "You have your orders... GO!" The Chobin hood knew better than to question his master's orders and ran off in the direction of Fluttershy's cottage. -MANA- Luna had left with the spirit of the Moon while Fluttershy recounted what happened. "So that's why you were so frightened... Then again if I was hearing an animal speak to me in a manner I could understand for the first time I would be shocked too." Ferrik said with a chuckle as a glint of light caught the corner of his eye. "Yes, and if my memory of that event hasn't faded you tried to attack the poor frog with Wisp's power screaming it was possessed by the Mana Lord's evil magic." Dryad said with a giggle which caused Ferrik to facepalm before he drew his sword and swung into the open air just over Twilight's head. "Ferrik! What are you doing you could've-" Twilight's comment was cut short by the arrow pieces halves fell down in front of her. Ferrik had sliced the offending projectile to defend his new found friends. The Chobin Hood was not pleased, seeing it's first shot failed it proceeded to knock another arrow this time chanting a spell before firing. "Get down!" Ferrik cried out as he stepped in front of the next arrow that gleamed with a sick purple haze. 'Crap Poison Arrow... not enough time to dodge or deflect it...' He thought as he held up his sword in a last ditch attempt to guard only for the arrow to be halted by a glowing shield made of powder blue magic. "If you have anyone who can get the creature to stand down and switch sides that would be nice!" A powder blue unicorn mare shouted her horn lit up with the same aura as the shield's color. "Fluttershy, please speak with it and see if you can get it to stop. I would rather not have to kill it." Ferrik said the last part with the tone of someone who had done enough of it already. Fluttershy meekly complied and after a minute or two she returned to the group. "She said she would love to help us but, even if she did the mean man who sent her would still send a beast called a Mantis Ant." Fluttershy said as the Chobin Hood approached the group with a sad look on it's face. "Well if she wants to help that's fine. I can handle a mantis ant and besides... we can use all the help we can get." Ferrik said with a smile and nod towards the Powder blue unicorn that had approached the group. "Wait... Trixie?" Twilight said with an inquiring look. To which the unicorn could only make a sullen nod. "I came to ask for forgiveness for what happened last time..." Twilight pulled Trixie into a hug. "You saved Ferrik! Of coarse I forgive you. By the way... when did you learn such a powerful shield spell?" "That would be my doing Lady Sparkle." A voice came from nowhere which soon took root into a ball of glowing white light. "I am known as Wisp the spirit of Light. My magic is mostly known for it's defensive properties and I'm afraid your history is a bit mistaken... Teleportation is not in my list of skills. That honor belongs to the spirit of the Moon which I'm sure you've met." The glowing spirit said with a feminine voice. "But, she digresses. Wisp asked me if I would help the Hero of Mana in his quest in exchange for a boost to my spells. I agreed as soon as she told me where I needed to go." Trixie said with a smile towards Twilight. "Well it's getting late... Shouldn't we all get some sleep? From what I've learned from Wisp the Mantis Ant hunts during the day and even then prefers to wait in a den like an Ant Lion. So we should be safe for the night. The young knight can stay in my wagon for the night." Trixie said with a smile to which the group agreed. -MANA- As Ferrik entered the wagon he gave off a low whistle. "Wow, this wagon looks a lot bigger on the inside." He said as he placed his weapons and armor next to the bed taking note that there was only one. "I guess I'll be sleeping on the floor or couch." Ferrik thought as he detached the Sword of Mana from him it changed into a glowing sphere and vanished until it was needed once more, to anyone or anypony watching it would look like it entered his chest and came to rest within his heart. "I'm sorry about the lack of a guest bed but, I didn't really expect to have company..." Trixie said as she exited the washroom freshly cleaned from her shower. "The shower's free if you need it, oh and your welcome to share the bed... it's big enough for the both of us." Trixie said trying to hide her blushing face from the young knight as she climbed onto the bed. Ferrik waved as he entered the washroom and set aside a towel and fresh clothes before his mind caught on to what just happened. "D-Does Trixie like me?" He said quietly to himself before shrugging it off and readying for bed.
Chapter 5 "The End of Act One"I do not own the rights to My Little Pony Friendship is magic or the Mana Series games. Please support the official releases. It was another quiet night in Canterlot and as the residents slept a young man did what he did best... Relive stuck up higher class of their wealth to give to those in need. *Click* "I miss the days when the Navarre thieves guild was as noble as I am still. Back then this was fun." The blue haired man commented after taking several hundred bits from the vault of one Prince Blueblood. "Well, I guess this is as much as I can take for now... Not like this guy needs it from what I heard." He said with a smile as he placed his stolen goods on his back, and started to leave the manor only to be ambushed by it's owner himself. "Halt! Who are you and why did you just leave my vault room?!" The arrogance in the stallion's voice was easy to pick out of his tone. "Y-Your a thief! You've stolen from me?!" The shocked look on the stallion's face caused the blue haired thief to laugh loudly. "Wow... I thought I would have to explain that... But, seeing as you've figured out what I did, allow me a moment to explain why. You see I only take from those who take their lavish lifestyles for granted and give my hauls to those who are more deserving." The thief said with a smile as a bird call sounded from outside. "And from what I've heard a pack of beasts would be more deserving than you. Take care now and thank you for your donation." The thief said with a smile and liberal application of a smoke bomb before dashing out of the mansion's second floor window and vanishing into the night. -MANA- "That was awesome Blue Hair! I've never seen someone do something like that before. Well at least not for good reasons." Rainbow Dash said as the pair approached Ponyville's Town square. The Thief had given his entire haul to the orphanage on the edge of town getting a tearful hug from the pony who ran it. "It's the oath of the Navarre thieves guild Ms. Dash, we are sworn to only steal from those who would not miss what we take and give to those who need it more." Dash could see the visual change in his expression as he finished his little speech. When it started he was happy and after he muttered something under his breath he looked like someone just poured poison joke on his head. "What's wrong Blue Hair? You look a little down in the face..." Dash said with a concerned tone, while not usually one for being overly concerned stating that being soft "Isn't Cool" she was still the element of Loyalty and that meant making sure her friends were alright. "I was just remembering what happened to them, it all started when the master of the guild. My best friend's father met a woman called Isabella." He then explained the story of how Isabella killed his best friend and framed him for the deed, how she cursed his lover with an enchanted collar that would kill her if he proved he was innocent to her. How she was actually a spy sent in by an evil man called the Dark Prince that wanted to take over the world. "Wow... That's just... Wow... you've had it pretty hard huh?" Dash said with a sad look as she placed a comforting hoof on the thief's shoulder. "Yes. The past is the past though and it's time to look to the future, the guild can always be started again as long as one remembers the ways it was run." The thief said with a smile as he began to pick up speed as they entered the town square proper. "Thank you for your time Ms. Dash, my name is Hawk by the way, so don't hesitate to give me a shout if you need me. A bird call will always get my attention. It was the way we called each other in Navarre." He said with a wave as he jump up the side of a house and vanished into the shadows of the night once more. "That guy is... SO AWESOME!" Dash said with a smile as she returned to her cloud house thinking of how she look in the garb of the Navarre Thieves guild. -MANA- Deep within the Everfree forest the Crimson Lotus wizard Koren learned of the defection of his minion the Chobin Hood 'Robin'. "So Robin has abandoned us for the peaceful pony folk eh? Very well. She may meet her end with them as well! Mantis Ant!" At the call the giant insect stepped forward it's mandibles clicking in anticipation. "Go to the town that Robin entered and kill everything. Leave nothing alive in your wake, do I make myself clear?" The beast let out a noise that could be considered laughter and nodded before tunneling it's way through the ground towards the exit of the forest. "And so the game begins. You chosen fools of Mana may have stopped my lord the Dragon Emperor but, you will not be rid of me so easily." Koren laughed manically as he summoned a crystal sphere that showed him where the mantis ant was and the area around it. "And I get the best seats to the show for free." He began laughing again his laugh going unheard in the night as our hero's slept peacefully. Will Ferrik and Hawk be able to stand before the might of the Mantis Ant? Will our hero's quest end before it truly begins? What does Celestia actually know about these events seeing as she summoned Ferrik to begin with?! Do you all like Bananas?! Find out the answers to all these questions and more as act two begins. -Act One End-
Chapter 6I do not own the rights to My Little Pony Friendship is Magic or the Mana Series games. Please support the official releases. Ferrik woke up from his slumber in a rather awkward position, after falling asleep on the floor to not inconvenience his hostess Trixie. He was startled to find her sleeping with her head across his chest holding him closely. Sadly trying to move without waking the blue unicorn was impossible so he resigned himself to attempting to get some more sleep. Sadly this was not to be as a knock sounded at the wagon's door. "Ferrik? Trixie? I'm sorry for bothering you so early but, are you both awake? I-If I'm bothering you I'll just come back later..." The timid voice of Fluttershy gave away that she was knocking. This stirred Trixie from her slumber who reacted to her position by blushing and running into the bathroom, leaving Ferrik to answer the door. "Good morning Ms. Fluttershy. Is there something I can help you with?" The young knight said with a smile. Which the Pegasus gratefully returned. "Oh yes, well um... you see a young lady showed up at my house last night and actually mentioned you by name. I'm sorry for not telling you right away but, I thought you might be tired..." Fluttershy hid her face behind her mane afraid that she did something wrong. "It's alright, I'd like to know who they are and besides..." Ferrik's stomach grumbled loudly. "I haven't eaten since I got here... so mind if I join you for breakfast?" The pegasus nodded and the pair left Trixie's wagon with Trixie following closely and apologizing for the rude welcome. -MANA- "Ferrik your alright!" A green haired young woman wearing dancer's garb with a bow strapped to her back tackled the young knight in a hug. "Why did you leave like that you big goof? You could have at least told me where you were going. I didn't tag along with you the last time just for you to leave me behind now." She said with a smile as she released Ferrik. "T-Tamber? How did you get here?" Ferrik said with a smile as he made sure he wasn't dreaming. "That would be my doing young Knight." A majestic and Motherly tone said from behind Ferrik before the entire group realized that they had been teleported inside a large castle, along with the rest of Fluttershy's friends and a certain Blue Haired Thief. "Princess Celestia!" Twilight said with a smile as the ponies in the room bowed followed shortly by the Mana's Chosen. "Good morning to you my faithful student and to your friends and guests as well." The sun princess said with a smile as she looked over the group stopping on Hawk for a moment. "Oh before I forget, Hawk of Navarre please step forward." The princess motioned to just in front of her and Hawk nervously stepped forward. 'Oh I'm so dead... Word on the street is that the princesses are living goddesses... I think a dungeon is the best case scenario here in all honesty." Hawk thought to himself as he approached Celestia. Celestia stared at Hawk, her warm smile never leaving her face. "Hawk you have been reported for stealing 700 bits from the Manor of Prince Blueblood, is this true?" The thief only nodded seeing no reason to lie. This caused a few of the ponies present to gasp in shock. "Normally this type of situation would call for a few days in the dungeon but, due to what you did with the stolen goods I believe I can overlook it as long as you promise not to rob another of my little ponies again." Hawk nodded and bowed before the Princess. "You have my oath that I shall not steal from another of your subjects again your majesty." Hawk said clearly and without a hint of false intentions. "The Navarre Thieves pride themselves on their honor, a shame that I am the only one left." He said sadly. Celestia nodded and leaned her head close to Hawk so only he could hear what she said next. "If you promise that you can keep them out of trouble I bet some of my little ponies would be interested in your guild. Remember that it's only illegal if you get found out right?" She said which caused Hawk to nod with a knowing smile. 'I like this princess already.' He thought as he stepped back with a bow. "Take care of yourselves my little ponies. Ferrik, Tamber, Hawk. Please keep my little ponies safe from the creatures that our enemy uses." The three nodded and bowed before the group was teleported from the Palace. "I just hope they're strong enough..." She added sadly after the group vanished. -MANA- Twilight approached Hawk and stared at him. "What did you do with 700 bits anyway?" She asked curious as to how the Thief could be penniless once more after stealing such a large amount of money. "I gave all of it to that struggling orphanage at the edge of your town." He said with a calm smile as he started to walk away from the group. "Oh and by the way, if any of you need me just use a bird call." The thief performed said call to make sure they knew what he was talking about before dashing off again. Tamber snapped to attention and pulled two objects from the pouch at her side. "Oh Ferrik, Moti told me to give these to you. Said you forgot them." She said with a smile as she held out the Gem Frame and a Wind Drum. As Ferrik took the wind drum he smiled remembering that this was the only way to call the spirit of Flight Flammie. "Thanks Tamber, I can't believe I forgot it... is that a new Gem Frame?" He asked as he took the silver frame in his hands. A marshmallow white unicorn with a styled purple mane and tail perked up at the name of the object. "Excuse me but, might I inquire as to why that's called a Gem Frame?" She eyed the device suspiciously but, when Ferrik pulled a flawless red stone from his pocket and placed it into the frame it became clear. The frame buzzed and glowed with an otherworldly light for several moments before vanishing into Ferrik's pocket. "The Sword Mastery and Sword Expertise Gems?" Ferrik nodded to Tamber's question before unsheathing his sword and firing a shock wave from the blade. When he held it up to guard a glowing shield appeared around him. "I always carried those two and you know it." Ferrik's display was cut short as his stomach grumbled causing the rest of the group to nervously laugh. "Well it's almost lunch and I think we all do need some food. So let's have a spot of Lunch on me." Rarity said with a smile to a large amount of grateful nods towards her famous Generosity. -MANA- The Mantis ant finished building it's nest as Koren's image appeared before it. "I take it that you've finished your preparations." The monster nodded. "Good then you shall strike slowly and carefully. We don't want those fools finding out about me before I'm ready." Koren held up a glowing image of two ponies one Light Blue unicorn and the other a Butterscotch Yellow pegasus. "Bring me these two before you begin your assault they have been around the boy and may know his weakness. Do what you will with them but, I need them alive." The Ant nodded and decided to rest as Koren's image faded. Tonight it would strike. Tonight it would feed on Pony Flesh.
