The Friendship Tournament; this fighting tournament was established when Canterlot High and Crystal Prep first became rivals. Every four years the two schools would choose their top twelve fighters to participate and for the past three Friendship Tournaments, Crystal Prep had reigned victorious. This years combatants included the cocky but skilled fighter Rainbow Dash, the unassuming yet graceful Rarity, the heavy hitter farm hand Applejack, the unpredictable and entertaining Pinkie Pie, the passive aggressive yet talented Fluttershy, and finally the socially awkward but brilliant combated Twilight Sparkle.
That Friendship Tournament was the most exciting one since the very first one and finally ended with Rainbow Dash emerging victorious, earning Canterlot Highs first win in over fifteen years. Throughout the tournament, those six girls formed a strong connection that grew into a friendship the likes of which no one had ever seen before.
As a reward for earning Canterlot High it’s long sought out victory, Principle Celestia and Vice Principle Luna brought the tournament competitors to Camp Everfree for a week long camping trip. While there, Rainbow and Applejack became sparing partners with Twilight joining in every once in awhile as Rarity, Fluttershy, and Pinkie enjoyed the campground.
One day the creature, Gaia Everfree emerged from the forest and terrorized everyone until Rainbow and her friends confronted it, giving the others a chance to get to safety. Even though they were losing, Rainbow and Twilight would not give up and with an act of true friendship, Twilight intercepted an attack Gaia Everfree had intended for Rainbow. With that one act, Twilight became the Spark that activated the source of Gaia Everfree’s power, The Elements of Harmony.
Armed with the Elements, Twilight and her friends defeated Gaia Everfree using the powers the Elements granted them; Twilight could levitate anything she choose, Rainbow could move faster then the eye could see, Applejack gained super strength, Rarity could conjure up diamond shields of any shape and size, Pinkie Pie could turn anything she touched into an explosive, and Fluttershy could instantly heal any injury.
Upon returning home, the six friends agreed to improve themselves and master their powers incase something like Gaia Everfree came around while also agreeing on calling themselves The Fighters of Harmony.
Six Months Later.
A pod crashed into the ground, leaving a crater five times it’s diminutive size. Opening with a hiss, the pods occupant, a young girl with red and yellow hair stepped out before floating to the edge of the crater. She wore her standard Saiyan armor with blue tight battle outfit, white gloves and boots and on her face was a scooter. With her light green eyes, the Saiyan Sunset Shimmer, looked around the area she had landed in.
It was a glade.
Taking in her surroundings, Sunset looked at the trees that surrounded her, amazed at the size and strength of them as her landing had not toppled any of the closest ones.
“These are some strong trees.” Sunset admitted before a grin formed on her face. “Maybe there a harbinger of how powerful this planets strongest warriors are.”
Lifting into the air until she cleared the treetops, Sunset activated her scouter.
“Let’s find out.”
Within seconds, the scouter detected the planets strongest inhabitants
“Well, well, well.” Sunset said with excitement. “I figured there would be at least two or three powerful fighters here, but six? Hehehe. This is turning out to be quite the day.”
Following the scouters directions, Sunset turned until she was facing the direction her soon-to-be opponents were.
“Once I’ve eliminated them, this planet will belong to me!”
Laughing, Sunset Shimmer race off to face the six strongest people on the planet.
Sounds of fighting could be heard as Rainbow Dash, Twilight Sparkle, and Applejack spared off against each other as the rest of the school watched on. Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Fluttershy sat in the front row with Spike on Rarity’s lap.
“Those three are amazing!” Spike said as his tail waged faster. “They get better and better everyday!”
“Thank goodness for that.” Rarity added. “After we got our powers, those first few weeks were dreadful.”
“Tell me about it.” Fluttershy sighed before petting Spike. “It was exhausting making sure everyone was okay whenever their powers got out of control.”
“Especially Spiky Wikey here.” Rarity said as she hugged him, making Spike wag his tail faster. “When Twilight casted that spell that turned you into a dragon, I was sure we lost you!”
“It was pretty cool though.” Spike said with a chuckle. “At least I kept my ability to talk. It’s been great being able to talk with all of you!”
“Oh, we enjoy talking with you too, Spike.” Fluttershy answered.
Just then, Rainbow was hit by Twilight’s energy blast and was sent flying towards the four of them causing Rarity to summon a diamond shield on reflex. Rainbow managed to get her feet on the ground, forcing her to finally stop just before touching the shield.
With a grin, Rainbow looked at Twilight who was now dodging Applejacks punches.
“Nice one, Twi! But don’t think I’m out just yet!”
With that, Rainbow shot forward until she appeared right between the two just as Applejack throw a heavy right hook. Catching the two of guard, Rainbow twisted under the oncoming hook and simultaneously punched Applejack in the face and kicked Twilight in the stomach, causing the two of them to fall back away from Rainbow.
“Dag nabit, Rainbow!” Applejack shouted. “Yer as annoying as ah mosquito on ah hot summer day.” Applejack grins. “And yer punches are just as effective.”
“It’s how I fight, AJ.” Rainbow shot back while matching her grin. “You don’t hear me complaining about your fighting style.”
On instinct, Rainbow dodged to the side as an energy wave shot past her and straight at Applejack who stood her ground and caught the beam. Using her super strength, Applejack twisted around while holding the beam and redirected it back at Rainbow. Seeing the beam coming, Rainbow decided to wait for the very last moment before she would dodge.
I love looking awesome when I fight.
The beam got closer before Rainbow prepared to dodge it, but found that she couldn’t move. Her entire body was covered in a purple glow.
I hate you, Twilight.
The beam stuck Rainbow just as Twilight released her hold on her, allowing Rainbow enough time to throw her arms in defence. The beam exploded on impact cause her to be covered by smoke.
“HA! Chalk one more up for strategy!” Twilight cheered out.
Just then, Applejack shot forward, intent on attacking Twilight. At the same time, Rainbow had used the smokescreen as cover and managed to get behind Twilight. Facing attacks from both her front and back, Twilight teleported just as Applejack and Rainbow clashed with each other with fast punches and kicks.
Pinkie watched as Twilight appeared above them and fired another energy beam, separating Applejack and Rainbow before landing. She always enjoys watching her friends train together because their unique powers worked off each other perfectly.
“It’s so exciting watching them work together one minute, then try and beat each other the next!” Pinkie shouted with excitement. “I call dibs on the winner!”
That get Rarity, Spike, and Fluttershy laughing before Fluttershy suddenly stopped and looked scared, worrying Rarity.
“Is everything alright, darling?”
Fluttershy looked out past her friends that were training as her eyes grew wider.
“Can’t you feel that?” Fluttershy asked.
Rarity looked at Spike then to Pinkie before the two of them casted their senses out past their friends and found what Fluttershy was talking about.
A huge energy signal and it was headed straight for them.
Standing up, Fluttershy shouted. “Twilight! Rainbow! Applejack! There’s something coming straight for us!”
The three of them stopped fighting and turned to Fluttershy.
“Say what, now?” Applejack asked.
“She’s right.” Rarity, still holding onto Spike, stood up with a look of fear on her face. “Someone terribly powerful is coming!”
“Come on, guys.” Rainbow said. “You're exaggerating. No one on this planet is stronger then us.”
“Oh yeah?” Pinkie challenged as she pointed just past them. “Then you tell us what that huge energy signal is.”
Twilight cast her sense out as she turned around to face the direction Pinkie was pointing at. Sure enough, there was someone coming that had a power much greater then any of them.
“I sense it too, Rainbow.” Twilight said before looking her in the eye. “And it’s far greater then any of us.”
Rainbow looked at Applejack as everyone gathered together.
“Are you saying we’re all in danger?” A student asked
Turning around, the girls realized they had to do something to protect their school mates and friends.
“What should we do?” Pinkie asked.
“Isn’t it obvious?” Rainbow said as she stood in the middle of them. “We go and confront whoever that is before they reach the town!”
“Ah agree with Rainbow.” Applejack added. “Fer whatever reason, that guy must be after us. If that’s the case, leaving town would be the best thing fer us ta do.”
“And what if their not after us?” Rarity argued. “We would be leaving everyone here defenceless.”
“Then we’ll split up.” Twilight suggested as she placed a hand on Rainbows shoulder. “Rainbow, Applejack and I will go out to meet this guy while you three stay and calm everyone here. That way, we’ll not only have the city protected but also reinforcements should we need it.”
They all agreed as Fluttershy healed Rainbow from the blast she took before following Applejack and Twilight out the door.
“Be careful.” Fluttershy said before joining Rarity and Pinkie in calming everyone.
“Oh. That’s interesting.”
Sunset had been admiring the scenery that she flew over when her scouter gave off a warning. Looking at the screen covering her left eye, Sunset watched as the three strongest of the six had separated from the other three and were on their way to intercept her.
“They must have some way to detect power levels.” Sunset concluded then grinned. “Fine then. If they want to face me away from their friends…”
Sunset looked to her left and saw a wide field, clear of any trees or large stones.
That will due nicely.
Banking left, Sunset landed in the middle of the meadow that was overshadowed by a row of mountains before crossing her arms, waiting for her opponents to come to her.
“Don’t keep me waiting too long.” Sunset said aloud. “Come and get me!”
Twilight noticed that the energy signal had stopped moving, eliminating any doubt that it knew they were coming and had decided to let her and her friends go to it.
“Whoever this guy is, they know we're coming.” Twilight said aloud before turning to look at Rainbow. “They could have a trap waiting for us.”
“Get real, Twi.” Rainbow argued. “With a power like that, what use would a trap be? Whoever it is, they’re saving their strength for when we fight.”
“Not that ah doubt our abilities…” Applejack started. “…but ya wouldn’t happen ta have ah plan brewing in that there head of yers, would ya, Twi?”
Looking from Applejack to their unknown opponent, Twilight racked her brain for anything she could use that would help fight this guy.
“Well, we know they’re strong...” Twilight began. “...maybe stronger. For all we know, this could only be a fraction of their real power.”
“Thanks, Egghead.” Rainbow jabbed. “That kinda talk has got even ‘me’ worried.”
“It’s a possibility.” Twilight defended herself. “Plus, they have the ability to detect our energy so stealth and sneak attacks aren’t going to work.”
“So where’s the ‘Plan’ in this here plan of yers?”
“I’m sorry, girls.” Twilight sighed. “I won’t be able to make one until we find out more about this guy. Which means…”
“We attack this guy from all sides…” Rainbow interrupted. “…and stay alive until Twilight spots a weakness, right?”
Twilight and Applejack exchanged looks before looking back at Rainbow.
“Pretty much, yeah.” Twilight admitted.
“Then lets take this guy down!”
Rainbow shouted before rocketing towards Sunset, with Twilight and Applejack close behind. Before too long, Rainbow and her friends arrived at the field and finally saw who it was that had that much power. Landing a good distance away, Rainbow took a moment to look at the young woman before her.
“So you're the one we've been sensing.” Rainbow began. “Honestly I was expecting, like a dude. Or at least someone much taller then you.”
“Rainbow, do me ah favour.” Applejack sighed. “Put yer foot in yer mouth until we have ah need for it. And I’m talking about yer foot.”
Rainbow glared at Applejack as Twilight stepped forward.
“I am Twilight Sparkle. These are my friends Rainbow Dash and Applejack. Tell us, who are you and what brings you to our planet?”
Sunset had watched them as they approached and found it hard to believe that the three girls standing before her held admiral power levels. Listening to the one named Twilight, Sunset could tell she was the smart one of the three and made a note to not underestimate her. Shifting her gaze from Twilight to Applejack and then to Rainbow, Sunset need only a few seconds to tell what their strengths were.
The one named Rainbow is the fastest of the three and Applejack must be the strongest.
“Hey, lady.” Applejack asked as she waved at Sunset. “You awake in there? Twilight’s talking to ya.”
“I’ll bet she’s scared cause of how awesome we looked flying in.” Rainbow boasted, much to Applejacks annoyance.
“I am Sunset Shimmer, a Saiyan from the Planet Vegeta.” Sunset said, causing Rainbow and Applejack to look at her surprised. “As for why I’m here, the answers quite simple.”
Unfolding her arms, Sunset formed a huge, toothy grin on her face before showing her power by creating a wind that pushed Twilight, Rainbow, and Applejack back a few feet.
“I’m here to conquer your planet.” Sunset explained. “And the best way to do that is to destroy you and your friends.”
“Not if we have anything to say about that!”
Rainbow shouted just before charging her power. She was about to launch her attack when Twilight stepped in front of her.
“Wait, Rainbow!” Twilight said before turning to Sunset who had ceased her display of power. “How do you know about our friends? For that matter, how were you able to tell where we were and that we were coming?”
“I had you pegged as the smart one.” Sunset gloated. “Looks like I was right.”
“You did?” Twilight asked, surprised. “But how? We only just met.”
Sunset knew Twilight would try and get information about her in an attempt to figure out a way to beat her, but Sunset couldn’t help but enjoy the power she held over them so much she had to tell them how futile fighting her would be.
It’s not like she’s smarter then me.
“As a Saiyan, I am a natural when it comes to fighting. I’ve battled so many fighters across the universe that I am able to easily tell what your strengths and weaknesses are just by looking at you. For example.”
Sunset looked from Rainbow Dash to Applejack, her grin never faltering.
“Rainbow Dash over there is quick to action and insults, so she holds the speed of your little group.”
“Lucky guess.” Rainbow countered weakly.
“While Applejack carries herself confidently and her stance would allow more power behind her attacks, leading me to conclude that she is the strongest in terms of physical strength.”
“Ya got all that from my stance?” Applejack asked before turning to Twilight. “Careful, Twi. She might be smarter then you.”
Maybe, when it comes to fighting and analyzing. But strategies are my forte.
“You still haven’t answered my previous questions.” Twilight reminded.
“Why should I answer them?” Sunset asked. “It’s not like you can beat me either way.”
“Because you’re not the only one that can tell what a persons like by looking at them. I know you hold yourself in high regard which tells me you have great confidents in your power.”
“And your point is?” Sunset questioned, unimpressed.
“That surely you enjoy a chance to use your full power against people that can give you a challenge.”
Sunset’s eyebrow twitched at that word.
“…and how would a few bits of information make you strong enough to truly challenge me?”
“You’re the warrior who's fought many fighters.” Twilight jabbed, a smirk forming on her face. “You must know that a single bit of information can turn the tide of any battle.”
Rainbow and Applejack looked from each other to Twilight and Sunset who were locked to each others gaze.
“Why are we just standing here?” Rainbow whispered impatiently. “Now's our chance to take her!”
“Not yet, Rainbow!” Applejack whispered back forcefully. “Let Twilight do her thing.” Applejack looked back at Sunset. “In this fight, we need every advantage we can get.”
Sunset could see it. Twilights attempt at gaining an advantage against her no matter how small it would be. She knew that all she needed to do was kill these three then go after their friends and then this planet would hers for the taking.
Sunset knew all this, and yet…
What kind of Saiyan would I be if I didn’t stack the odds against me?
“…this…” Sunset began as she pointed to her scouter. “…is a scouter. It allows me to detect power levels from a vast distance.”
Twilight eyed the device that Sunset had pointed to.
So, she can’t detect energy levels herself! That’s good to know.
“I knew about you and your friends thanks to it.” Sunset answered. “So tell me, Twilight Sparkle. How helpful was that for you?”
Twilight grinned and it made Sunset close to being nervous.
“Plenty! Go for it, Rainbow!” Twilight called out.
“About time!” Rainbow shouted before charging forward, moving so fast Sunset’s scouter couldn’t keep up.
“What?” Sunset asked, caught off guard by Rainbows speed. “Where…?”
Before she could finish, Rainbow delivered a right hook to her jaw, sending Sunset flying back before charging her again.
“Go help Rainbow!” Twilight said to Applejack. “Do whatever you can to get Sunset’s scouter. I’ll hang back and provide cover fire.”
“Ya got it, Twilight!” Applejack called out as she raced after Rainbow and Sunset as Twilight took to the air.
I hope the three of us are enough.
Thanks to the warning her scouter provided, Sunset was able to recover enough to twist around and catch Rainbows punch before throwing her own which Rainbow caught causing the two into a grapple struggle.
“Eager to fight, aren’t you?” Sunset asked.
“You’re one to talk. I can see that competitive fire in your eyes, too.”
Her scouter warning her again, Sunset shifted her foot just enough to earn her enough of an advantage to throw Rainbow at the oncoming Applejack, who managed to duck in time to avoid Rainbow before clashing with Sunset with a flurry of punches and kicks.
“I'm surprised that I figured you wrong.” Sunset admitted. “Your attacks aren’t any stronger then your friends.”
“Ya ain’t seen nuttin yet!”
Applejack threw a right jab that Sunset was able to dodge before being kicked away by a straight kick. Applejack rolled before setting herself on her feet, slowing her down till she came to a stop and raising with her left side forward, ready to continue the fight.
“That wasn’t a very impressive move, farm girl.” Sunset jabbed. “I thought you were gonna do something impressive.”
With a grin, Applejack revealed her right hand and the scouter she held.
“Ah did.”
Surprised, Sunset finally noticed her scouters screen know longer covered her left eye just as Applejack crushed it.
“Looks like ya’ll can’t follow us no more, now can ya?” Applejack taunted.
Sunset hardened her features before charging at Applejack as she took a step forward with her left foot and brought her right fist back, intended to give Sunset one of her ‘harder’ punches. Sunset saw what Applejack intended to do and matched her by pulling her own right fist back. But just before reaching Applejack, Sunset was stopped by something that did a number to her stomach.
Rainbow Dash had dug her elbow into Sunset that stopped her long enough for Applejack to connect her heavy punch directly to Sunset’s face.
It sent Sunset flying clear over the meadow they were fighting in and into the mountain that was miles away.
“Think she felt that one?” Applejack asked Rainbow as they stood ready.
“Definitely. Have you felt your punches?” Rainbow asked jokingly. “They don’t tickle.”
Just then they felt Sunset’s energy and it was coming from right behind them.
“Uh oh.” Applejack expressed.
“You said it.” Rainbow agreed.
Standing with her back to them, Sunset looked at Twilight who was flouting not to far away from them then wiped the blood from her lips before looking down to see it.
Sunset smiled
“You two are competent fighters, I’ll give you that.” Sunset said as she lowered her arm. “However…”
Rainbow and Applejack both launched a back kick at Sunset who twisted to the side and moving just back enough to avoid their kicks before grabbing them and shooting into the air, taking the both of them with her. Once high enough, Sunset spun around so fast the two of them were getting dizzy before throwing them down to the ground, resulting in two craters where they landed.
“Rainbow! Applejack!” Twilight called out.
“Your attack dogs are useless to you, now.” Sunset spoke cruelly. “You’re gonna have to face me all alone.”
Twilight glared at Sunset before casting her senses towards Rainbow and Applejack who were laying in their craters, dizzy.
She’s right. I’m on my own until Dash and AJ recover.
Getting into her fighting stance, Twilight prepares herself for her fight.
Spike watched as Rarity and Pinkie finished calming everyone down before getting the students and faculty out of the school and on their way home, excited to see everyone wasn’t panicking and that Twilights plan was coming together without a hitch.
He remembered the last time one of her plans didn’t work out. That was a dark day.
As the breeze reached his nose, Spike got a whiff of Fluttershy’s scent. Curious, he walked out of the main lobby of the school and made his way to the sidewalk just past the statue to where Fluttershy was standing.
“Fluttershy?” Spike asked. “What are you doing out here? I thought you were helping get everyone out of the school.”
Startled, Fluttershy looked down at Spike.
“Oh, I’m sorry Spike. I missed that. What did you say?”
“Are you alright, Fluttershy? You’ve been really distracted ever since the others left.” Worried she knew something was happening to Twilight and the others, Spike began to worry. “Is everyone okay? What about Twilight? Is she hurt?”
Spike started to run around Fluttershy until she bent down and picked him up, gently petting him to calm him down.
“Calm down, Spike.” Fluttershy encouraged. “Twilight is fine. Rainbow and Applejack…”
Fluttershy stopped petting Spike before looking in the direction her friends were currently fighting at, doing little to hide the worry on her face.
“Fret not, Fluttershy.”
Fluttershy and Spike looked back toward the school to see Rarity and Pinkie Pie walking towards them.
“Rainbow Dash and Applejack may be down.” Rarity said as she placed a hand on Fluttershy’s shoulder upon reaching her side. “But don’t count them out just yet.”
“Yeah!” Pinkie assured cheerfully. “After all, Rainbow’s to confidant to stay down and Applejack's to stubborn!”
That made Fluttershy giggle before they all turned.
“…although…” Rarity began. “I can’t image they can last long enough to beat this ruffian.”
“Not without help at least.” Fluttershy added.
“That guy’s power ‘is’ pretty big.” Pinkie said.
The three of them exchanged looks, unsure of what to do. They all might have acquired powers, but only Twilights, Rainbows, and Applejacks seem more suited to fighting.
“I say you go!”
Jumping out of Fluttershy’s arms, Spike stood before them with a look of serious and worry.
“If you three don’t go, that guy might kill our friends. And if that happens it will be up to you three to stop them.”
“Us?” Fluttershy gasped in horror.
“We won’t stand a chance without the others.” Rarity commented.
“Exactly!” Spike said with an urgent tone. “Your only chance of stopping that guy is by working together! We know now that their after you six, plus everyone is back home now. There’s no reason for you three to stay here anymore.”
Fluttershy looked at Spike then to Rarity who gave her a smile and a nod of agreement.
“Well, what are we waiting for?” Pinkie said as she floated before them. “Let’s go help our friends beat the bad guy!”
With that, Pinkie flew off at top speed toward their friends just as Rarity and Fluttershy chased after her.
“Go get ’em girls!” Spike shout, his tail wagging faster then ever before. “I know you can beat that guy!”
Twilight was sent flying by Sunset’s kick. Fortunately for her, she had cushioned the blow by using her levitation spell to slow her attack down, managing to recover long enough to teleport away, putting distance between her and Sunset.
That kick would’ve paralyzed me if I hadn’t used my spell on her.
“Impressive.” Sunset called out. “I haven’t fought anyone who could use spells so effectively during a battle before. You must’ve done some intensive training to reach this point.”
Twilight took this moment to catch her breath. “Thanks. But I can’t take all the credit.”
Just then, Rainbow appeared and caught Sunset in a full nelson, once again catching her off guard.
“You’re really starting to annoy me!” Sunset growled as she looked back at Rainbow.
“Thanks!” Rainbow replied with pride. “It’s my specialty.”
“Darn right, it is!”
Sunset turned to see Applejack right in front of her, with her right arm pulled back and a grin plastered on her face.
Sugar Honey Ice Tea.
Pain shot through her body as Applejack all but impaled Sunset with another of her heavy punches, buckling her over for Rainbow to slam her straight to the ground.
Twilight teleport beside Rainbow and Applejack as they celebrated their successful attack.
“Awe Yeah!” Rainbow shouted. “That was awesome! She never saw us coming!”
“But how long can we keep that up?” Applejack asked. “She’s bound ta catch on ta it or worst, find ah way ta counterattack.”
“AJ’s right.” Twilight agreed. “We need to finish her off now while we still have a chance.”
“Sounds good to me.” Rainbow said. “So what’s the plan, Twi?”
That’s it. No more miss nice Saiyan! They’re dead!
Blasting the rubble that covered her away, Sunset let out a bone chilling cry of anger that caused the area to shake.
“It’s over!” Sunset called out. “I’m through playing your games! When I find you, you’re DEAD!”
“Is that right?”
Sunset turned to see Applejack standing a few yards away.
“Then what are ya standing over there fer?” Applejack taunted. “Come and get me!”
Enraged, Sunset charged at Applejack, making sure to keep an eye and ear out for a Rainbow sneak attack.
NOT this time!
Sunset launched an energy blast making Applejack dodge by jumping into the air giving Sunset the opening she needed, but just as she was about to make contact with her, Applejack vanished with a pop of purple magic.
In her place was a speeding Rainbow Dash ready to kick her.
…Clever.
Before she could react to the sudden change, Sunset was set flying as Rainbow delivered a kick that almost matched Applejack in strength. Unable to recover from the attack but still capable of opening her eyes, Sunset saw that Rainbow had managed to get behind her before sending her into the air with another kick where Applejack was focusing her power into her fist. Applejack launched herself at Sunset, her fist cocked back until the two of them met with Applejack throwing her strongest punch yet right into Sunset’s nose rocketing her towards the ground where Twilight was waiting, charging her strongest attack.
Heaven’s Might.
“She’s all yer’s Twi!” Applejack shouted. “Let her have it!”
Her arms straight out with a large purple energy ball at her hands, Twilight unleashed her attack with a mighty cry.
“Let’s see you come back from this! Heaven’s Might!”
Her attack shot forward as Sunset rapidly approached her only for the two to collide.
“AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!!!” Sunset cried out as the attack launched her towards the mountain, the impact completely destroying it.
Twilight stood there breathing heavily as Rainbow and Applejack landed right beside her, their eyes never wavering away from where the mountain previously stood.
“WOAH!” Rainbow expressed. “Twilight! You just blew away a mountain! A freaking MOUNTAIN! Do you have any idea how awesome that is?”
“Settle down, Rainbow.” Applejack said sternly as she supported Twilight. “Can’t ya see the toll that attack took on Twilight?”
“I’ll be fine, Applejack.” Twilight said weakly. “I’m just not used to using that much power at once. I just need a minute to catch my breath.”
Twilights legs gave out as Applejack gently eased her to the ground.
“And the best part is…” Rainbow continued. “…I can’t sense that Saiyan ‘warrior’ at all. Not even a trace of…”
Rainbow stopped abruptly, noticing the looks on Twilight and Applejacks faces before turning around, mirroring them as she saw what they were seeing.
Floating right toward them was a very injured and very angry Sunset Shimmer.
“By my great grandpappies orchard…” Applejack whispered in disbelief. “How can she still be up and about after ah blast like that?”
Sunset was furious. Never had she been so humiliated and outmatched. If it hadn’t been for the slight speed boast she added to her fall, Sunset would have been directly hit by Twilights attack. Fortunately for her, that was enough to cause the attack to hit her left side, giving her enough room to roll away from the attack before it hit the mountain. The blast from the mountains destruction was what sent her back towards the meadow Twilight and her friends were at.
Hovering before them, the left side of her armor destroyed with a reenforced bra the only thing covering her chest, Sunset Shimmer began to charge her power.
“You three…” Sunset slowly spoke, her words laced with malice. “…have just wasted your last chance.”
Sunset landed as Applejack and Rainbow stood in front of the downed Twilight, shielding her.
“And now.” Sunset raised her head, her eyes burning with fury and murderous intent. “I will enjoy Tearing You Apart PIECE BY PIECE!”
Charged to her maximum, Sunset shot forward so fast that Rainbow had lost sight of her until she felt Sunset drive her fist into her stomach, knocking the wind out of Rainbow before charging a blast and firing it.
Creating a hole where her stomach had been.
Twilight and Applejack watched in shocked horror as Sunset’s blast carried Rainbow a far distance away, landing with a pained cry.
“RAINBOW!” Twilight cried out.
Before Applejack could even register what had happened to Rainbow, her senses flared up just before blocking Sunset’s kick to her head. Anger fuelling her desire to avenge Rainbow, Applejack charged up to her maximum strength then threw a jab that Sunset caught. Vanishing, Applejack and Sunset exchanged rapid blows that were so strong they created loud booms that could be heard from miles away.
This can’t be happening. Rainbow… You can’t be… No… NO!
Twilight hadn’t turned her gaze away from her fallen friend even as Applejack clashed with Sunset. All she could see was Rainbow on the verge of dying and even with all her powers, Twilight couldn’t do a thing to save her. For the first time in her life, Twilight didn’t know what to do.
The sound of Applejack crashing into the ground finally snapped Twilight out of her daze as she turned to look at the now beaten Applejack, her body covered in bruises as blood trickled from her lips and nose.
“…Applejack…not you too…” Twilight whispered.
Sunset towered over Twilight as she landed, her eyes never losing that murderous edge to them.
“Now it’s your turn, Twilight Sparkle.” Sunset spat as she aimed her hand at her and began charging her attack. “Take comfort in knowing that you and your friends managed to push me into using my full power.”
Twilight sat there on the ground shaking as she grew angrier and angrier until her power skyrocket, creating a shockwave that both disrupted Sunset’s attack and also pushed her away.
“SUNSET SHIMMER!” Twilight bellowed as she slowly rose to her feet. “YOU’LL PAY FOR HURTING MY FRIENDS!”
Sunset couldn’t believe what she was seeing; not only was Twilight standing before her, her hair changed into literal flames, but emitting an energy that even she could feel.
“Wha-what are you!?” Sunset asked fearfully.
Without warning, Twilight closed the distance between them, moving faster then Rainbow Dash and sent Sunset flying with a punch that hurt more then anything Applejack hit her with.
How is this possible!? She might be just as strong as I am!
Recovering just in time to dodge Twilights kick, Sunset punched her in the jaw which Twilight used to attack her with a roundhouse kick. Sunset took the hit in order to grab Twilights leg, likewise using her momentum to spin Twilight around before throwing her into the ground.
As she floated there waiting for Twilight to make her move, Sunset couldn’t stop the grin growing across her face.
This is it! This is the challenge she promised me! Her power! It’s got my blood BOILING!
“Don’t keep me waiting, Twilight!” Sunset called out in excitement. “You’re just the opponent I’ve been looking for!”
Sunset watched as Twilight stood up, her flaming hair moving with intensity as she locked her flame red eyes with Sunset.
“Now, get up here and show me your full power!”
Fluttershy gasped when she felt Rainbow’s energy rapidly shrinking while Twilight’s grew just as quickly.
“What in the world is going on over there?” Rarity asked as they got closer.
“Something really weird that’s what.” Pinkie answered. “Rainbow and Twilight seemed to have trained places and Applejack is being left out.”
“And whoever their fighting doesn’t seem to have lost any of their energy.” Fluttershy added.
Fuelled by the thought of losing her friends, Fluttershy increased her power in order to fly faster, with Pinkie and Rarity following suit until they got to the clearing where Twilight was fighting Sunset.
“Wowie!” Pinkie called out with excitement. “I’ve never seen Twilight do that before! Did you guys know her hair could do that?”
“Of course not, Pinkie.” Rarity scolded. “Whatever happened must have been the fault of that girl she’s fighting.”
Looking around, Fluttershy gasped when she saw the stat Rainbow was in.
“Rainbow!” She cried out as she flew to Rainbow’s side. “Hold on, Rainbow! Please! Just hold on!”
As Fluttershy began treating Rainbow, Rarity heard a moan coming from her right, finally noticing Applejack was starting to stir.
“Applejack!” Rarity called out as she and Pinkie went to her side. “Stay down, darling. You need to rest.”
“Don’t worry bout me.” Applejack said with a groan. “Where’s Fluttershy? Rainbow needs…”
“Fluttershy’s already got her covered.” Pinkie said as if she were a solider.
“Then help Twilight.”
Just as Applejack said that, Sunset crashed into the ground not to far from them followed by a rain of energy blasts that caused Rarity to conjure a diamond shield, protecting everyone from the onslaught.
“Are you sure she needs our help?” Pinkie asked.
“Indeed." Rarity said as she struggled to keep the shield up. “Twilight seems to have everything under control.”
“Don’t take Sunset lightly.” Applejack warned. “She’s ah dangerous fighter if ya do.”
“Sunset?” Rarity asked.
“That’s what she calls herself. Sunset Shimmer, ah Saiyan from the planet Vegeta.”
Watching Twilight blast Sunset, Pinkie started to blink uncontrollably followed by her left ring finger getting itchy.
“Here she comes!” Pinkie shouted as she readied herself.
Rarity watched as Sunset blasted out of the impact zone of Twilights attack and headed straight for them.
“How…!” Rarity managed to say before Sunset crashed into her shield, shattering it. Pinkie managed to push Rarity down in time to avoid Sunset as she continued past them.
And right towards Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash.
“LOOK OUT, FLUTTERSHY!” Applejack managed to scream.
Knelt down beside Rainbow, Fluttershy had been pouring everything into healing her severely injured friend and had managed to close the wound before she heard Applejack call out to her. Turning, Fluttershy froze in fear as Sunset raced towards her so fast, she couldn’t even make an attempt to protect her or Rainbow.
eep.
Suddenly, Fluttershy’s vision was blocked followed by a loud boom as Sunset had collided with Twilight, snapping Fluttershy out of her stat of shock.
“Twilight?”
“I Won’t Let You Hurt ANY OF MY FRIENDS!” Twilight shouted as she struggled with Sunset.
“I’m counting on it!” Sunset shouted back before head butting Twilight then driving a knee to her stomach not only bringing Twilight to her knees but also causing so much damage, Twilight had lost her flaming hair and power.
“Only a fool would care about such weaklings.” Sunset proclaimed as she aimed a blast at the three girls before her. Sunset had a strange feeling that someone was coming at her from behind and turned, using her outstretched arm to attack whoever it was only to see that Pinkie had leaped over her arm and kneed her in the face before backflipping, kicking Sunset in the chin and sending her into the air. Landing from her flip, Pinkie began firing energy blasts into the air, all of them missing as Sunset recovered and watched as her blasts were all over the place.
“It’s official.” Sunset called down to Pinkie. “You have the worst aim I have ever seen.”
Pinkie fired her last shot, smirking up at Sunset. “Silly, Sunset. Haven’t you learned yet.”
Sunset grin disappeared as she looked around and discovered that she was in the middle of a minefield of energy blasts.
“We’re just full of surprises.” Pinkie called out as she commanded all the energy blast to attack Sunset causing a huge explosion.
While Pinkie took on Sunset, Rarity helped Applejack to Fluttershy who had just finished healing Rainbow Dash and was now tending to Twilight.
“I have another one for you, dear.” Rarity said in an attempt of humour as she placed Applejack down beside Twilight. “How’s Rainbow Dash?”
“Alive, thankfully.” Fluttershy said while she began healing Twilight. “She just needs a few minutes to rest.”
An energy blast landed close to them, drawing Rarity and Fluttershy’s attention to Pinkie's battle.
“Go help Pinkie Pie.” Fluttershy all but commanded before doubling her efforts. “Leave Twilight and Applejack to me.”
Rarity nodded then flew off toward Sunset, who was having a hard time landing a hit on Pinkie. Taking advantage of her frustration, Rarity conjured her diamond shields around her fists as she got close enough that Pinkie noticed her approached. Dodging another of Sunset’s punches thanks to her Pinkie Sense, Pinkie kicked Sunset in the head, which set her up for Rarity to land a diamond covered punch to her face followed by a two punch combo to Sunset’s stomach and right ribs before finishing by turning around and delivering a backflip bicycle kick that sent Sunset, once again crashing into the ground.
“Excellent form, Rarity.” Pinkie commented. “That acrobatic training of yours really paid off!”
“Thank you, Pinkie Pie. I do take pride in executing my fighting techniques with graceful precision.”
“Tell me about it. You always criticize when…” Pinkie began to say until both her left knee and right elbow started to heat up. “Look out!”
Getting push aside, Rarity watched as Pinkie braced herself just as a huge energy blast struck her, sending Pinkie into the air. Rarity never had a chance to help her friend as Sunset came rocketing toward her, forcing Rarity to conjure five layers of her diamond shield. Sunset punched Rarity’s shield, braking four of them and cracking the fifth before Rarity powered up to her max and blasted Sunset through her shield, stunning Sunset enough to reenforce her diamond gloves before Sunset recovered and attacked, trading blows until Sunset caught Rarity’s fist.
“These sorry excuses for an advantage…” Sunset growled as she squeezed down on the gloves, cracking them. “…prove just how weak you are!”
Sunset pulled Rarity into her knee as she drove it into Rarity’s stomach, knocking the wind out of her following up with a double hammer fist strike that sent Rarity plummeting to the ground.
Luckily, Rainbow caught her before she hit the ground, shocking Sunset.
“How are you Still ALIVE?”
“That’s easy.” Rainbow said as she set Rarity down before locking eyes with Sunset. “Because you’re not Just fight me!”
“Yer fightin all of us!”
Applejack and Pinkie walked up to Rainbow and Rarity, standing beside them.
“And fighting with your friends…” Pinkie said excitingly. “…is the best way to overcome any challenge. No matter how big it is.”
Twilight and Fluttershy joined their friends as Rainbow helped Rarity to her feet.
“Face it, Sunset.” Twilight called out. “It doesn’t matter how strong or smart or skilled you are. You can only do so much by yourself.”
“Please, Sunset.” Fluttershy pleaded. “Stop fighting. There’s no point in continuing.”
Sunset had watched as all six of them gathered together, say their peace about the benefits of working as a group and how she was somehow losing this battle.
It must be their last ditch effort to beat me! Well, it won’t work!
“Never.” Sunset answered coldly. “I will never stop fighting! I am a Saiyan warrior and I refuse to admit defeat against the likes of you six!”
Charged to her max, Sunset rocketed high into the sky until she was just a speck. Placing her left hand into her right hand then turning to the side so her left shoulder was facing forward, Sunset began charging her strongest attack.
The Galick Gun.
“If You Six Are So Sure Of Your Victory…” Sunset shouted. “Then Prove It! NOW!”
“She’s nuts!” Rainbow announced, her worry and fear evident in her tone. “She could destroy the planet with an attack like that!”
“That’s exactly what Sunset intends to do.” Twilight announced, earning everyones worried looks. “Sunset Shimmer is so obsessed with her pride, she would rather die by her own hand then admit defeat.”
“Then we need ta launch an attack of our own!” Applejack announced. “It’s our only chance ta save the planet!”
“I agree with you Applejack.” Rarity said weakly. “However, the only one of us with an attack powerful enough to do anything is Twilight.”
“IF YOUR NOT GONNA TRY!” Sunset shouted as she finished charging her attack. “THEN SAY GOOD BYE!”
“Times up!” Pinkie cried out. “We need to do something, NOW!”
“But what can we do?” Fluttershy asked. “None of our attacks even slowed her down!”
“…I might have a way to stop her.” Twilight said. “But we need to work together to pull it off.”
“Then tells us what we need to do!” Rainbow demanded.
“Just share the power of your Elements with me!”
“GALICK GUN!” Sunset shouted as she threw her hands forward, launching a huge purple beam of energy towards the gathered friends.
“It’s now or never, Twilight!” Applejack shouted. “DO IT!”
The six of them gathered together, their Elements began to glow as Twilight used her magic to tap into it’s power and launched their strongest attack, the Rainbow Harmony Cannon that shot out to intercept Sunset's Galick Gun. The two attacks collided, causing a loud boom that cleared the skies of any clouds.
“NO! NO! THIS CAN”T BE HAPPENING!” Sunset screamed with anger. “HOW CAN YOU CONTINUE TO FIGHT BACK?”
“Because too many people are counting on us!” Twilight answered. “We can’t afford to lose!”
“And as long as we draw breath!” Rarity added.
“We won’t ever stop fighting!” Applejack shouted.
“We care too much to give up!” Fluttershy said confidently.
“So as long as there are people to fight for!” Pinkie announced.
“They can count on us to stay strong!” Rainbow cried out proudly.
Slowly, the Rainbow Harmony Cannon began to push Sunset’s Galick Gun back to her as the strength of their friendship fuelled it’s power.
“You might be stronger then any of us!” Twilight proclaimed as she charged her energy to add to the Harmony Cannon as her friends followed suit before looking up at Sunset and declared together.
“BUT YOU”LL NEVER BE STRONGER THEN ALL OF US!”
With that proclamation, the Rainbow Harmony Cannon exploded with power, completely obliterating Sunset’s Galick Gun as it continued on right for Sunset.
“…no…” Sunset whispered just as the Rainbow Cannon struck, completely consuming her. However, to Sunset’s surprise, the beam wasn’t hurting her, it was filling her with a sense of calm.
What is this feeling? It’s…warm.
The Rainbow Harmony Cannon gathered around Sunset until it exploded, causing a rainbow coloured shockwave that spread out for miles as Sunset fell.
Twilight and her friends watched as Sunset rapidly approached the ground.
“Rainbow, catch her!” Twilight pleaded.
“Why?”
“She could die!”
“Good riddance if you ask me.”
“RAINBOW!” They all shouted.
“Alright, alright. I’m going.”
Rainbow raced off as Sunset neared the ground, Twilight watched and hoped, disappointed in herself for not having enough magic to teleport to Sunset and catch her but after launching the Rainbow Harmony Cannon, Twilight wasn’t capable of levitating anything, much less teleporting.
Sunset’s life was in Rainbow’s hands.
Rainbow neared Sunset just as she was forty feet from the ground.
Why am I saving her? She nearly killed ME for crying out loud!
But one look at the unconscious Saiyan and Rainbow knew.
Rainbow sighed. “Sometimes it sucks being the good guy.” She commented before racing toward Sunset, just catching her five feet from the ground and returning to her friends.
Placing Sunset beside Fluttershy for her treatment, Rainbow Dash gave Twilight a questioning look.
“You do realize this is a BIG mistake, right?”
“I have to agree with Rainbow, darling.” Rarity said before eyeing the downed Saiyan. “We barely managed to stop her just now. What are we supposed to do if she attacks us again?”
“Ah say we end it, right here and now.” Applejack announced, earning everyones shocked looks. “Ah don’t mean kill her, ah meant using one of yer stronger spells ta tie her up and lock her away somewhere. At the very least, we should get her off our planet.”
Turning back to Sunset, Fluttershy continued to heal her until her powers triggered something within Sunset, causing her to gasp.
“But if we did that, what’s to stop her from coming back and stronger then she is now?” Pinkie asked. “I certainly don’t want to throw her a “Welcome back to Earth, Sunset Shimmer!” party if that happened.”
“I know you all don’t agree with this.” Twilight confessed. “But Sunset’s not like Gaia. She’s an actual person, not a creature come to life by the corrupt Elements, so we shouldn’t condemn her to death because of what should did to us.”
“Weren’t you listening?” Rainbow snapped. “Sunset Shimmer has defeated other fighters before coming here and I don’t think she meant by making them say uncle.”
“Who’s uncle?” Pinkie asked. “Sunset’s?”
“Let’s not forget the most important thing.” Rainbow continued, ignoring Pinkie’s question. “SHE ALMOST KILLED ME!”
“Is that your reason for killing her?” Twilight challenged. “If it is then you’re no better then she is!”
“I say we ask her to join us.”
Everyone’s eyes turned to look at Fluttershy, disbelief on their faces.
“WHAT?” Rainbow shouted. “You can’t be serious! Why would we want her to join us?”
“Honestly, Fluttershy.” Rarity said. “You’d best leave the jokes to Pinkie Pie.”
“Absolutely!” Pinkie added. “Because if that was a joke, it wasn’t very funny.”
“Why would ya suggest such ah thing, Fluttershy?” Applejack asked.
Fluttershy looked up from where she knelt beside Sunset, her face mix of determination, the likes of which she has never shown before, and sadness.
“Because she’s been all alone for so long.” Fluttershy answered.
“What makes you say that?” Twilight asked as she knelt beside Fluttershy.
“I…can’t explain it, but…while I was treating Sunset, I started to see things. Things not of this world. I also felt a loneliness that not only reminded me of how alone I felt before meeting you girls, but it felt so much worst.”
Fluttershy looked at Sunset with a greater understanding of what she went through.
“Even if that were true, it doesn’t excuse her from all the pain she’s already caused.” Rainbow argued.
“I’m not saying it would.” Fluttershy reasoned. “But we should at least offer her a chance to change and start to make up for all the bad things she’s done.”
Turning, Fluttershy looked Rainbow square in her eyes.
“If you made a grave mistake, wouldn’t you want a chance to make up for it?”
Rainbow’s expression softened after that, realizing that this was the first time Fluttershy had shown such determination since their battle with Gaia Everfree.
I always forget how strong she can truly be, sometimes.
“…I still think it’s a bad idea.” Rainbow said weakly as she turned away from the others.
Sunset floated in the darkness, her state of mind at the point that separates consciousness and sub-consciousness, preventing her from fully awakening but not quite asleep ether. Opening her eyes, Sunset could vaguely comprehend what was happening in the waking world while also watching as her memories played out before her due to an unknown source from within herself.
What happened to me? Sunset thought.
Events that occurred moments before sprang to the forefront of Sunset’s mind, as her memories showed what had lead Sunset to her current situation of mental limbo.
That’s right. I remember. Those girls. Beat me.
On cue with her thoughts, memories of the six girls’ Rainbow Harmony Cannon attack appeared before her that bathed Sunset in multicoloured glow.
This warmth. Feels nice. Maybe even. Welcoming.
The rainbow’s light shining down on her, Sunset failed to notice her shadow ripple with each positive thought she had until finally out sprang a creature that fled from the light.
I hate them! I won’t rest until they all DIE!! The creature proclaimed before retreating into the darkest reaches of Sunset’s sub-conscious.
The warmth that had spread throughout her body subsiding, Sunset awoke slowly. Her eyes moved from behind her closed eyelids as she rocked her head side to side, moaning as her eyelids began to open.
“Look.” Sunset heard someone say as she continued to open her eyes. “She’s starting to wake up.”
“Be careful, y’all. We don’t know what she might do.”
Sunset recognized that voice as Applejack. Out of all the girls, she was the one that stood out to Sunset whenever she talked.
I wonder what dialect that is?
Finally able to open her eyes, Sunset was worried when all six girls she had just fought against had her surrounded. She tensed up when Fluttershy touched her shoulder.
“It’s okay, Sunset. We aren’t going to attack you.”
“Just as long as you refrain from attacking us, thank you.” Rarity quickly added as she put her hands to her hips.
Sunset looked from the hand Fluttershy had on her shoulder, to Fluttershy’s smiling face then to the other standing girls. Sunset quickly noted that Rainbow had her back to her while Pinkie was attempting to hind behind Rarity.
“I…don’t understand.” Sunset said aloud. “Why didn’t you finish me off when I had been defeated?”
“That makes two of us.” Rainbow agreed without turning around.
After shooting a glare at Rainbow, Twilight turned to Sunset.
“You may not believe it, but victory doesn’t need to be achieved by killing your opponent. Sometimes…” Twilight turned back to Rainbow. “…it takes someone truly strong to spare a life.”
“Hmph.”
“Sunset…”
Turning her attention from Rainbow and Twilight back to Fluttershy, who had risen and was now standing beside her.
“…I don’t know how it happened…” Fluttershy began nervously. “…but somehow, I…saw your memories and everything you did and went through.”
Sunset’s eyes widen in shock.
“You don’t have to be alone any more.” Fluttershy said kindly as she reached out her hand. “We would like you to join the Fighters of Harmony. If you’d like to, that is.”
Sunset looked into Fluttershy’s eyes and saw she was sincere with her words. She couldn’t believe this was happening; Sunset expected a lot when she was struck by their Rainbow Harmony Cannon. Being killed was at the top of those expectations, but to be asked to ‘join’ them? Looking from the outstretched hand to the girl it belonged to, Sunset struggled to figure out what to do.
One Week Later.
Students crowed the halls when the front doors opened as a lone girl walked through for the first time. Looking around, this girl was nervous to be among so many people all at once. The majority of her life she had spent alone traveling, improving herself with each destination she reached. Now this lone girl had to get used to the crowds of students as she tried to change her life and attempt to make up for all the wrongs she had committed throughout her travels.
“Sunset Shimmer! Over here!”
Turning toward the direction Pinkies call came from, Sunset Shimmer allowed herself a small smile to creep onto her face before walking over, the students closest to her eyeing her suspiciously.
“Today’s your first day at Canterlot High.” Twilight reminded Sunset. “How are you holding up so far?”
“Fine, I guess.” Sunset replied. “It’s gonna take some getting use too, but I’ll make it work. Thanks again for the clothes, Rarity.”
“Oh think nothing of it, darling.” Rarity answered. “I’m especially proud of those lovely black gloves. They definitely complete the look.”
Dressed in a sky blue short dress with pants a greyish shade of blue and black boots and leather jacket with orange lines topped off with her black leather gloves.
Just then, the bell rang for class to begin.
“Time to start your first day of school!” Pinkie said excitedly. “I’ll throw you a “First Day of School!” party after school!”
“C’mon.” Twilight said “We have class together. I’ll show you where.”
Twilight lead the way as everyone headed for their first class but as Sunset walked away, she couldn’t shake the feeling like someone was watching her.
I’m in a school with lots of people. Of course there’s someone staring at me.
As Sunset left, A boy stood at the hallways wall and watch her leave, mesmerized.
“Who was that?”
Author's Note
For those of you wondering, SS3SS was a pilot story, if you will. A spur of the moment idea that became what it is. Proud of that story and the ideas in it, I've decided to expand it by writing this series, The Fighters of Harmony.
Thank you for reading my story.
Constructive criticism is always appreciated.
You are Awesome.
