Chapters Trunks held his aching side, leaning on the chair of the machine. He remembered every vivid detail of what happened mere moments ago. Black's arrival, his fight, his mother, Mai... The blue-haired Saiyan shook his head slowly, shoving those thoughts aside. He had a mission to save the world.
The time machine flew through a black void with yellow lights surrounding the capsule. Trunks tried to keep his eyes open, bags seen underneath them. A yawn escaped his mouth, drained. He had just escaped a battle with Black and narrowly made it out alive in the first place, seen by the bruises and cuts on his face.
He knew the costs of what he was doing. Trunks saw it all... His mother... Vaporized by Black and Mai... He didn't have time to check on her after she bought him time. He clenched his eyes shut at the thought, feeling selfish for his actions. He didn't want to go alone. For years, he's been fighting alone. A tiring fight.
Trunks coughed, "No..." he placed a hand on the controls to the machine, staying awake as much as he could. 'Can't sleep now... But too tired...' he slid his hand down onto the glove compartment and opened it, seeing a small bag inside. He picked it up and opened it, seeing two familiar green beans inside.
'Senzu beans... Only two of them. I'll get more when I arrive.' Trunks thought, throwing one into his mouth and chewing it. Suddenly, he felt a burst of energy overtake his body, feeling re-energized for the fights ahead.
'Mom really thought ahead. She must've placed those before she finish the machine.' a thin smile was seen on the Saiyan's face, but then it morphed into a frown. "I'm sorry, everyone..." he whispered, his head hanging in shame and sorrow. Tears fell out of his eyes, and then a determined glare was seen on his features.
"I won't fail. Not now. I'm getting help from Goku. From Father and Gohan! I won't let anyone down this time!" Trunks shouted to himself in determination, his hand curling to a fist.
Then, something strange happened. A white light appeared in his line of sight and the capsule shook as it moved forward. The controls to the machine jammed, forcing Trunks to release his grip on the levers and buttons. 'What's happening?!' Trunks asked himself in surprise, unable to move ths ship.
With no other option, Trunks braced himself, hoping that he ended up in the correct point in time.
A lone being hovered over the burning remains of West City. His cold glare narrowed at the sight of the flames. Silence was heard within the darkened cloud-covered city. He remained still, slowly turning his head for answers over what happened.
"Trunks..." he growled, teeth gritting and hatred flowing at the sound of the name.
His appearance was uncanny and similar to a hero of the past before he perished. His hair spiked to the sides, he wore a black gi, a white ring on his hand, and a green Potara earring on one of his ears. He crossed his arms, clearly unamused over what happened. "That filthy mortal... Always delaying the inevitable."
Goku Black looked at the dark sky ahead, 'He thinks he escaped my wrath. But my Zero Mortals Plan is still in effect. If he thinks he can take the coward's way out, then he will bring the rest of these mortals' suffering by my hand.' a dark smirk was seen on his face as he quietly chuckled.
He rotated his arm, feeling a little sore. Goku Black chuckled again, "He's proven himself quite an opponent. This body is perfect for my plan." he held his shoulder and coughed, "Heh. I will wait Trunks. And I will kill you when I do. You and the rest of the mortals will not live."
'But what was that device he used to escape? It was not an ordinary plane or ship.' thought Goku Black, wondering how the Saiyan escaped. "Pheh. I will figure it out when the time comes." he raised his hand, "For now, I must continue my plan." he glanced at the Capsule Corps building, which was somehow still intact. He black ball morphed in his hand and he flicked his arm, throwing the ki beam, blowing up the building instantly.
Black's figure was covered in smoke and shadow, giving him a sinister appearance as a smirk formed on his face.
Trunks felt the capsule shake and tumble while it flew through the rift. He closed his eyes as the light got closer to him. Then, the shaking stopped. The Saiyan fell out of his seat and his face planted on the controls. "Ow..." he muttered, sitting up and rubbing his face for a moment. His hand moved to his head, feeling a small headache from the turbulence he suffered.
Fog covered the glass dome of the time capsule. So, Trunks pressed a button, opening the machine. Before he left however, he looked at the fuel of the machine, the monitors all red. "Empty... One way. I have to make this count." he whispered. Trunks levitated out of the capsule, greeted by something he dreaded.
Black clouds, red sky, burnt trees and ash in place of grass. The blue-haired Saiyan's eyes widened and his jaw agape. "N-No... D-Did I not leave my time?" he asked himself in fear. "I-I couldn't..." he muttered in disappointment. He lowered his feet and planted them onto the rough ground. A tear fell from his face, "I failed..."
Trunks got to his knees and held the ground, "Mother... Mai... Everyone... I'm sorry." he whispered. He knew it was a matter of time before Black found him, and now he was out of options. The plan was to go back in time and ask some allies for help: Son Goku, his father Vegeta, and Gohan. But now it was pointless. There was no fuel left and no way to gain more energy to fulfill another jump in the capsule.
The Saiyan opened his eyes at a sound and he sensed a strange energy. 'It's not ki. And it's not Black. I wouldn't be able to sense him most of the time anyhow.' he stood up, adjusting the strap of his sword sheathe. Trunks turned his eyes to the sound of loud flapping, something he hasn't heard since Black arrived. He decided to hide himself behind a tree for the moment and he looked up to the sky to find the source. "What is it...?"
There, he saw what appeared to be gargoyles, black bug-like creatures and small dragons flying high in the sky and past him, which earned a sigh of relief from the Saiyan. It was hard for him to distinguish these creatures in this darkened weather, but he knew he hadn't seen them before. "What was that? Minions? Black would never use anyone. He would prefer extinction by his own hand." he lowered his hands to his sides.
'No. This is something else. I must be somewhere else. At no point in history were those creatures alive. Except for the dragons. I would've seen them when I went back to fight Cell and the Androids.' thought Trunks, his eyes back on the capsule he used to arrive in the first place. He hovered slowly back to it and moved his hand to what was written on it. Or more accurately, what was painted on in a hurry.
HOPE.
'Hope... What I wanted to be for my world. And it seems I found myself in another one instead of the different timeline.' Trunks exhaled sharply. A determined glare formed on his features, "And if I'm going to save my world, I have to start by figuring out what happened here. And then, I can find a way back."
Trunks then started to run. Out of habit of he was hiding his ki, especially after learning Black could sense his energy for miles. Despite thinking he was in a different world, the young Saiyan decided to play it safe until he figured out what was really happening and what he was up against this time. Sweat poured from his face and he coughed, his shoes kicking up dust into his face, which he wiped with aid from his red ascot.
'What the hell happened here? It's a mirror of my world now.' Trunks pondered, raising an arm to wipe his forehead. He nearly stumbled in his sprint, but he swiftly got his bearings and continued on. 'Once I get answers... Maybe Black came here before he ended up in my world and this is the aftermath.' his mind wandered possibilities. 'If I find out that's what happened, he will suffer for all that fell by his hand.'
Nothing notable was seen by Trunks for what felt like an eternity. He saw ash, burnt trees and logs lying about the soot covered ground. But he also saw skeletons and bones, which disgusted him. 'Whoever did this... Is a monster.'
It was at that moment, Trunks found something in the distance. Small buildings, all destroyed or looked to be abandoned. 'A town. I'll see what's ahead from there.' he decided, sprinting faster. But he skidded to a halt, sensing foreign energy nearby. He narrowed his eyes and focused ahead. He saw three gargoyles wielding spears and walking around and near the town from where he was at. Trunks hummed quietly to himself and leaned behind a tree, praying that these creatures wouldn't find him. He was in no mood for a fight for the moment, the Senzu Bean's effects still not healing his wounds yet.
"You'd think Sombra would have us spend our time doing something besides not guarding an empty town." one of the gargoyles said, surprising Trunks.
'Talking gargoyles. That's new. But who is this Sombra?'
The gargoyle he was comversing with responded, "He wanted us to keep an eye out for the rebels or somethin', but we've been on patrol for days and nopony's comin'!"
'Rebels... And did he say nopony?'
"Hey! Stop talkin' and get back to work!" the third gargoyle shouted to the others from his spot.
The others groaned, "Always so serious..."
The two gargoyles walked away, their backs turned away from Trunks. The Saiyan clenched his chest. "Hm. This is something else entirely. Whoever this is, they managed to deal damage as much as Black." he closed his eyes, "If I can't save my world, then I will preserve this one."
Trunks gritted his teeth, "If this Sombra did this, then I'll find him first. But I have to find out where I'm at first." he whispered. The Saiyan turned, seeing that the gargoyles were far from him in that town. He hovered lightly, hoping that these creatures can't sense ki and looked at the broken sign that was seen on the border of the town.
'Welcome to Ponyville...' Trunks read, 'Ponyville. This is another world, but not with humans. That would explain the gargoyles and odd bug things I saw.' he shook his head, 'No matter though. If the people of this world are endangered then I have to save them. No world should suffer like mine.'
Trunks focused, and sensed the energy of the gargoyle guards. It wasn't like the Androids, Cell, or like Black. It was more like Babadi and Dabura. Magical at its source. He raised his arms to his back and grabbed his sword, "I'm getting answers here and now." he hissed to himself, noticing the gargoyles turn around. "My presence can't be known yet. I have to play things safe."
And with a new goal, Trunks had a mission to fulfill.
Trunks leaned on the side of one of the broken buildings, staying out of sight of the gargoyles as much as he could. On the charred ground he could see skeletons of what appeared to be horses. He quietly gagged at the sight, but did his best to shrug it off. Unfortunately, as much as he hated to admit it, death and destruction was a common sight of his constantly.
The Saiyan slowly turned his head, seeing one of the gargoyles turn his back. With an open shot, Trunks sighed and hopped, dropping his sword down onto the back of the gargoyle. The monster gagged for a second, feeling a sharp pain behind him, but then collapsed, breaking apart as it fell to the ground with a loud thud.
Realizing that the attack was louder than expected, Trunks went back to his former hiding spot in case the remaining gargoyles came to check on the sound. And a moment later they did, seeing the pebbled remaines of their comrade "What hell happened to Stormbreaker?" asked one of them curiously.
The second gargoyle shook his head, "Damn clumsy, that's what happened. Poor moron must've tripped on somethin'. Let's get back to guarding before Sombra or Tirek find us slackin' and we end up like him." he ordered
'Another name. Tirek?' Trunks overheard, repeating the name again in his head. 'They must've done this.' he gritted his teeth, watching the gargoyles separate once more, going back to their spots. His hand tightened around the hilt of the sword.
Deciding to get answers soon, Trunks went after the second gargoyle, he hovered slowly above the ground, doing his best to keep his ki in check again in case they can sense it. He extended an arm, his palm revealing a yellow aura. A quiet was heard, getting the gargoyle's attention for a second before exploding thanks to a small ki blast from Trunks. He knew that the sound would bring the attention of the final guard and so hid one more time.
"Huh? What happened, Rockmold?"
The final gargoyle gulped, seeing the remains of his comrade. "Okay, something fishy's goin' on! Show yourself, rebel!" he commanded, raising his spear.
A scream was heard, getting louder. It was then the gargoyle turned his head and spear, narrowly blocking Trunks' sword. The blue-haired swung vertically, the gargoyle moving his spear to deflect that attack as well, making small white sparks from the metal hitting.
"What the hell are ya?" it asked Trunks.
"The one who will save this world!" Trunks shouted. "What happened to this land?"
The gargoyle growled, "Why the hell should I tell you, freak? And how should I know anyhow?"
Trunks hissed, "Cause if you don't, you'll end up like your friends. You mentioned Sombra and Tirek. What do they have to do with this ruined world?"
"Ha! As if I'd listen to you." after the rock monster boasting like that, Trunks raised his hand, readying a ki blast. The creature's fake eyes widened at the yellow orb of energy aimed directly at his face. "O-Okay! I'll tell ya what I know!"
"Go on..." Trunks commanded.
"Y-Years ago... Tirek, Sombra, Chrysalis, Starlight Glimmer with some help, heh! They worked together, killed the heroes of Equestria and took it over! W-We're minions sent to do their bidding and to stop the rebels from commiting an uprising to the gods! Please let me go!"
Trunks narrowed his gaze, "Have you killed anyone?"
"O-One rebel! That's i-!"
The gargoyle minion didn't get to finish his sentence as Trunks obliterated it to pieces with a charged ki blast. A scowl was seen on the Saiyan's face after hearing that story. "A world thrown into a dystopia by villains that claim to be gods. Egh. Sounds too much like home." he whispered.
'Even if I can't save my world, I can at least save this one. Tirek, Sombra, Chrysalis, Starlight Glimmer. They're awful if they can turn a world this far into hell. Sounds just as bad as the Androids if they can cause this much damage, perhaps even more so.'
Trunks looked ahead, seeing nothing but dirt and broken homes for what looks like a mile. 'But there are rebels according to him and the other goons. Maybe if I can find them, I can learn more about what happened here. Of course, if this is anything like back home, then they'd want to remain as hidden as possible.'
He passed by a few buildings, one of them looked to be a charred gingerbread house. Trunks could barely read the sign which read, 'Sugarcube Corner' and there was a crystal castle, or more accurately, the shards of a crystal spot. "This town looked peaceful one. So many bones, destroyed homes..."
The sound of flapping got the Saiyan's attention and he gazed at the sky, seeing more gargoyles, those bug-like creatures and dragons flying in the direction he was facing. Wanting to learn more about this world, Trunks chased after them, using his energy only to perform a hover slightly above the ground to gain speed.
Trunks made his way through what he assumed to be a forest, hard to judge due to the burnt trees and the like, but he finally found where some of the creatures were going. There was a castle, towering over anything he'd seen in this world so far. He sensed more magical energy coming from there. It was unlike ki, but thanks to the Kai he learned how to sense it easier.
He flew into the air, low enough to stay out of sight of any of the airborne creatures to get a better view of what lied ahead. He saw more gargoyles standing in different spots, each wielding spears and shields, more prepared than the ones he ran into. This must be a fortress. But he wondered what it was for. Getting back to the ground, Trunks weighed his options. He could go in there and attack each and every single goon, but that would draw attention to himself and he had no idea how many there were or how powerful they were.
So, he decided to do things quietly. Trunks slowly hovered to a spot away from the fortress, getting a vantage point from midair. He saw an open window and saw two of the bug-like creatures perched near it next to a gargoyle. 'I have to divert their attention somehow...' Trunks thought. He shot a ki beam in their direction, keeping himself hidden from their line of sight as the energy orb flew past them, getting their attention.
"Rebel unicorn!" one of the minions hissed. The three of them flew off, hoping to track the source of the beam. But Trunks used his speed to swiftly fly far from them and into the window. It looked ancient and old on the inside, only supported by what appeared to be recently built wooden columns. Trunks could hear steps from where he was at and flew upwards, staying near the ceiling away from the gargoyle that walked in.
It was at that moment, Trunks decides to strike. He held his sword and flew downwards, stabbing the rock minion in the head, breaking it instantly. "These minions aren't very bright." the Saiyan whispered to himself in slight relief. "I must be at a station for these creatures to stay in."
"Ah!"
A scream got Trunks's attention and he flew ahead, not seeing anything in sight. He stayed near the ceiling, and saw a gargoyle holsing a whip in his clawed grip, "Stay quiet little pony!" he yelled, hitting the elder looking pony in the back, causing another scream and a loud sound to be heard. "Get back to work!"
"N-No!"
Another whip and scream. Trunks shuddered at the sight. In all his time of fighting, he's never seen anything like this. He saw slaughter, murders, destruction on a grand scale. But pure slavery and torture. It made Trunks seethe at the sight. He knew something had to be done, and he was the only one who could do so. More of the minions came over to laugh and kick the stallion while he was down, angering Trunks more.
The Saiyan decided he had enough. He knew there were more minions than he expected and reached for his sword. "Get away from him!" he shouted.
All the minions looked up at the swfitly descending hero. One of the gargoyles laughed, "What are ya? Some kinda hero? Ya know what we do to heroes?" it asked. Trunks shot a ball of ki at it, blowing it up instantly and surprising the others.
"Don't care. I'm not letting you hurt him or anyone else." Trunks said in a stoic tone.
"Oh, that's it!" one of the bug creatures yelled. At that moment, all of them lunged after the Saiyan. Trunks sighed, ready for yet another fight.
Author's Note
A short one, but things really begin next chapter.
Trunks lifted his sword, slashing apart a gargoyle instantly, slicing it in half right there. The bug creatures lit up their horns, hitting the Saiyan with a powerful green laser, causing him to hit a wall. Trunks groaned, unprepared for such an attack. "What the hell?" he muttered, gripping his shoulder.
"We changelings are capable of magic." one of the bug creatures, changelings, buzzed. "We have no idea what you are..."
Growling, Trunks held the wall and clenched his fist. With a yell, he lunged forward, driving his sword directly into the head of the changeling, impaling it and killing it instantly. "I'm the one who's gonna save this world."
"Yeah right..." a gargoyle chuckled, lashing its spear in Trunks' direction. The Saiyan moved his body left and right to avoid the attempts, using his sword to deflect a hit with a vertical swing, knocking it out of their grasp instantly.
Three beams of magic suddenly caught Trunks off guard, causing hm to flinch where he was standing. The blue-haired Saiyan grunted, feeling himself lose feeling to his arms. But he got a second wind, charging a ki blast strong enough to catch them by surprise, aiming the yellow beam by their foot.
Getting his bearings, Trunks grabbed his sword once more, slicing a changeling in the chest. He turned his head as well as his arms, slashing a gargoyle that was trying to catch him by surprise. The plan didn't work obviously, and Trunks cut apart the rock creature's stomach in a single slice.
The Saiyan elbowed another gargoyle in the nose, shattering it instantly and then followed up with a knee to their jaw, breaking apart their mouth upon contact. Trunks grunted, feeling another beam of magic hit his back again, stunning him for only a moment. He spun around, performing a handstand to flip back up and he kicked the changeling in the face, knocking them through a wall.
Seeing another changeling light up their horn, Trunks lunged forward, slamming him onto the floor before driving his sword into their stomach and blowing them up with a ki blast. "Not this time..." he whispered, lifting his blade.
Tired and annoyed, Trunks held his hands high and shouted a word as a yellow light enveloped his palms, "MASENKO!" he screamed. Suddenly, a powerful beam enveloped the room, destroying any opposition that seeked to kill him. All that remained in the room were ashes and pebbles of gargoyles.
Trunks panted, getting to a knee, the attack wearing him down a little bit. 'I-I just need a moment... All this fighting...' he thought, wiping the sweat off his face.
The older pony looked to him, unable to respond, "W-Who are you?"
"Don't worry. My name is Trunks and I--"
It was at that moment, something strange happened. The lone Saiyan felt his entire body go stiff as a light pink aura enveloped him. He couldn't move and felt himself being levitated. He had no way of reaching for his weapons, seen by his struggle to move his own arms. With no other option, he decided to see what was happening.
Footsteps. 'Someone knows I'm here... And I can sense powerful magic from them. Almost as strong as Babidi. Almost.' Trunks thought, seeing a few figures step out of the shadows. The pony he met looked at him worriedly, unable to act.
"Run!" Trunks yelled.
"Oh no. It's too late for that." a female voice reprimanded, holding the pony down as well.
Pinned to a wall, the Saiyan got a closer look at who was doing this. It was a pony, younger than the one he saved. She had light purple fur, a darker mane with a mint-blue streak in the middle and her eyes were glowing a bright green. "Oh, it seems we have a stranger hoping to liberate this world." she chuckled.
"W-Who the hell are you?!" Trunks demanded to know.
The mare smirked at him, "If you must truly know... I am Starlight Glimmer. And it will be the last name you'll hear!"
Standing behind her were more gargoyles and changelings. 'This is one of the people who took over this world...' Trunks realized in his head, a scowl forming on his features.
Trunks gritted his teeth, doing his best to escape Starlight's magic grasp and he shuffled in midair. Screaming, the blue-haired Saiyan pushed himself to his limits in order to break free. An aura surrounded his body, breaking the lone Saiyan free.
Trunks got to the ground, surprising Starlight. "I'm surprised. You actually overpowered my magic."
"I am full of surprises." Trunks boasted.
The unicorn groaned, "Finish him."
Ready for a fight again, Trunks gripped his sword, slaahing each minion that stood in his way. He hovered forward, not stopping as each goon barely stood a chance.
"We had heroes before, you should know. All have fallen years ago." she boasted as Trunks inched closer.
"But I won't!"
Starlight raised a hoof and a scream made Trunks reach to a halt. The unicorn grinned, "Make your choice." she gestured, revealing that the pony Trunks had just saved was being held down by her minions, each ready to end him at a word's notice. "You can kill me and have him die... Or save him."
The Saiyan turned his head back to the beaten stallion. He knew that using one of his moves would risk him and so he decided to lash out directly, his blade raised over his head. He threw the sword down, driving into the top of a gargoyle's head. Two changelings flapped their wings, charging after him.
Turning around, Trunks spun his legs directly into their faces, kicking them through a hole he made in the wall earlier. Green liquid began to spill from their bodies, showing the battle damage they were given from the attack. The Saiyan saw them flying back after him and so elbowed one before flipping the other over his shoulder, tossing them aside with ease.
He then saw the remaining minions come after him. He hovered and charged back, his sword slicing the stomach of a gargoyle, destroying them. He spun slightly, performing a roundhouse kick on a changeling, stunning it long enough to charge a ki blast at it, and he faced ahead once more, driving his fist directly into the face of another rock creature, shattering its face. The last changeling shot a ball of magic at him, but the Saiyan saw it coming and swiped it away, driving his sword through the bug creature, killing it then and there.
Panting, Trunks placed his sword back into the sheathe strapped to his back. He saw the older stallion, worn out and bruised a little more than earlier. He extended an arm and the pony grabbed it, the Saiyan helping him stand. "Starlight!" he shouted, seeing that the mare vanished without a trace.
"She... teleported while you... were saving me... Thank you... B-but you s-should've..."
Raising a hand, the Saiyan replied, "No. I'm not letting another innocent life get taken while I'm here. I don't think that's the last of the resistance anyhow... Can you explain what's happening here real quick?"
A slow nod was his response, "S-Starlight brings us here... to do her bidding... monitor the castle... I t-tried to resist..." he revealed.
Lowering his head, the blue-haired man sighed, "How long has then happening?"
"A decade... Maybe more so." the pony coughed.
"I'm sorry... But I will do everything I can to help." Trunks revealed.
The pony sighed, "Why bother...? Many have tried, and fallen."
Trunks narrowed his gaze to the door, sensing more magic. He wrapped an arm over the pony's barrel, "Well, I'm not standing back while this is happening. I'll get you to safety and then I'll save the others in here!" he declared, flying out of the window, pony in his grasp. They were once more under the red clouds of the dystopian world and out of sight of the minions that were coming to the castle.
"What are you? You're not like any other pony..."
A frown was seen on Trunks, "I'm a Saiyan. From Earth." he announced, 'Or what's left of it.' his mind added, "Is there any place of safety here? Away from this... dictatorship?"
Before he could get an answer, a pink beam narrowly missed the Saiyan, prompting Trunks to turn around, seeing Starlight hovering in an aura of the same color. "Where do you think you're going?"
"To take him away from your grasp!" Trunks snarled.
"...Are you now?" the unicorn asked, "It doesn't seem that way."
The two landed on the ground of an open field, "What makes you say that?" the Saiyan crossed his arms, gently putting the pony on the ground beforehand.
After saying that, more of Starlight's minions appeared behind her, all ready for a fight. Gargoyles, thestrals, changelings, and two smaller than expected dragons all revealed themselves. "You did such a good job in taking down some of my army. I'll admit, I'm amazed by your power. It is unlike anything Equestrian, but I'm afraid you'll fall like the others who claimed to liberate this world."
"If you think I'm scared, then prepare to be disappointed." Trunks growled, reaching to his back and tightly gripping his sword with both hands. He looked down to the stallion, "Get to cover..." he whispered. "I can take care of this."
"A-Are--"
"Just go!" the man shouted through gritted teeth.
Starlight chuckled, clapping her hooves, "How noble of you. Thinking he's safe. He went against orders and tried to escape. Once you're gone, I'll have him executed by orders of Tirek."
"No one else is going to die..." Trunks whispered to himself for motivation. He could see her glowing green eyes pierce through his soul. But then something strange happened, if only for a second. She held her head and grunted, the green light in her eyes fading for only a second.
"S-Stop..." she quietly pleaded. But then she stopped shaking, revealing her sinister grin once more, her eyes bright again. The Saiyan knew that this was a sign something was off. But even he knew that she won't answer any question about the moment, so he focused back on preparing his strength.
"Sorry about that little... episode." Starlight muttered, "But there is something you should know before you die."
Trunks hissed, "And what is that?"
Smirking, the tyrannical unicorn spoke, "This is the first time any of us had to step in to stop a so-called liberator. They never make it past the overwhelming numbers of our forces. The Guardians of Harmony... The Princesses... The Royal Guards... They all never stood a chance against our might. And you will die just like them."
Trunks raised a fist, "If you think I'm dying here, then you're wrong! I faced worse than you! You're just a weak pony hiding behind an army!"
"Weak?" Starlight repeated with a dark chuckle, "If I am so weak, then how did this world fall so easily to our rule?"
"You killed their heroes. They think there's nothing left to fight for." Trunks growled. "And I'll be the one to change that."
Starlight pointed a hoof forward, "Is that so?" she paused.
The Saiyan took a step forward, the silence making him worried. But the sound of one word turned that silence away and Trunks knew that he had to fight.
"Attack."
Trunks screamed, slicing apart a thestral that lashed a sword in his direction. The Saiyan grunted, elbowing a gargoyle, dodging the spear he lashed out. He extended a hand, blowing up the rock creature instantly with a powerful ki blast.
The half-Saiyan turned his head, grabbing the spear wielded by another gargoyle and threw the being over his shoulder, the collision to the ground shattering it.
Seeing a pink beam heading for him, Trunks swiped it away with a flick of an arm, causing it to hit a dragon, making it explode. "I'm not playing around... You're lucky I'm not up to full strength..." he panted, glaring at Starlight.
"And why should I be concerned?" the unicorn wondered, not afraid of Trunks.
Trunks clenched his fists, "Because I can end this entire army..." he growled boastfully. "My power is beyond anything you've probably seen." he whispered.
Starlight smirked, "Ha! As if I'd fall for your bluff. Granted, you are unique, but I very much doubt you're as powerful as I say you are. Typical hero bragging." she waved off with a hoof.
Hissing, Trunks vanished in a blur, his fist colliding with a dragon's nose so hard that it grabbed it and roared in pain. The Saiyan flew again, roundhouse kicking the creature in the side of the head, launching it a few feet. He landed, slashing his sword across a thestral's chest, killing it there.
Three gargoyles and a changeling charged after him. Trunks turned his eyes to see them and he screamed "Masenko!" two large beams of yellow was released from his palms, creating an explosion strong enough to disintergrate the nearby opposition. The half-Saiyan panted, his arms limp.
A stinging sensation hit Trunks in the back, making him fall on the ground on his stomach. He grunted in pain, seeing smoke exhume from his jacket. 'That was a stronger beam of magic than I thought... Starlight's on another level. Almost as powerful as Babidi and Dabura. Perhaps even moreso.' he thought, lying on his back to face the unicorn.
"I'll admit... That surprised me." Starlight muttered, taking slow steps closer to the Saiyan. Her green eyes glared daggers on Trunks, who refused to budge. "But it seems like every other hero who seeked to liberate this land... You must die!" she growled, charging a beam from her horn.
In the blink of an eye, Trunks sat up, sword in hand and raised it over his head. Luckily for Starlight, she saw the attack coming and erected a forcefield around her, protecting her from the blade strike. He hopped back, seeing the surprise attack was for naught. "Don't think I didn't see that coming." she boasted.
Trunks extended a hand, "Masenko!" he shouted, hoping to break through the forcefield, to seemingly no effect. "Huh. Guess I underestimated your magic."
The dictator unicorn chuckled, "Of course you did. I am a magical prodigy, up there with the late Twilight Sparkle." after saying that name, the green in her eyes faded, causing her to hold her head in pain again, as though she was resisting something. "O-Ow... W-Why..." she muttered, "A-Attack!"
Seeing the army coming for him, Trunks lunged forward, using his sword to block a thestral's sword. A vertical collision. A horizontal collision. Sparks lit up from the clanging of their metal weapons and they were moving at a suprisingly fast pace, catching even Trunks off guard, who had to move at such speeds for the Androids and Cell. He stabbed the monster with ease, removing his sword from their impaled chest and faced a gargoyle.
The gargoyle lashed their spear in his direction, which the Saiyan swerved to dodge, his feet above the ground. He kneed the rock creature before driving both of his hands to the back of its head, breaking it into pieces. The rest of the body collapse instantly, shattering as well.
Trunks slashed his sword on a changeling, green liquid pouring out of their side as they buckled under the pain. The bug creatures with horns all shot magic at them. The Saiyan powered up a little, charging his ki, an aura surrounding his body as his scream got louder in each passing second. "Hhhhhaaaaaaaa!"
Flying ahead, Trunks uppercutted a changeling, breaking its jaw with one punch. The remaining two shot missing blasts of magic at the future Saiyan, allowing him an opening. He thrusted both hands forward once again, repeatedly shooting ki blasts in their direction, covering the ground in smoke, giving him a chance to run through the monsters, his sword impaling one as he passed them before he grabbed it.
Trunks then noticed Starlight getting back to her senses, her gaze focused on him. The Saiyan saw the neverending army come for him. He was tired. He couldn't power up more with overexerting himself. He was quickly running out of options. Despite this setback, however, he gripped his sword, ready to face anything that stood in his way.
"Grraaahh!"
He swiped horizontally, slashing a gargoyle. The Saiyan grabbed the shield he was holding, placing it in front of him while spinning in order to deflect a magic volt shot by Starlight. "Just die, outsider! What happens in this world is none of your business!" she hissed, trying to hurt Trunks.
The future warrior exhaled sharply, "Any world that has fallen to ruins is my business! If I'm around, you're damn right I'm going to save it!" he declared, tossing the shield at a thestral, knocking it out after it hit its chest. Starlight once again attempted to hit Trunks, ans the Sayian responded by flying back, allowing it to hit five goons, making them combust from the energy. 'I have to get out of here... Have to find a way to dwindle their numbers...'
He was tired. Despite the Senzu bean, it could only do so much once immediately brought into a fight like this and fighting to his absolute limit. The stress made Trunks worry a little, despite not showing it. He cut more changelings, killing them. Trunks punched through the chest of a gargoyle. It was an endless cycle, topped with having to worry about Starlight, who he landed a powerful kick onto, the unicorn getting her bearings and catching herself in midair.
As Trunks was ready to follow up, he spotted capsules in the air, looking like they were tossed and falling in an arch near his direction. He recognized them as weapons from his world and covered his mouth and nose with his ascot. The capsules landed, catching the minions off guard. They all took a glance at it before smoke popped out, covering the already dark area. Trunks grinned at the sight of the goons couing, 'Tear gas. That should hold them off. But who launched it?'
"Psst!"
The Saiyan turned around, seeing a cloaked pony in a gas mask, "Come with me, stranger. We won't be followed."
"Who are you?" Trunks whispered.
"Just listen, unless you wish to fall here."
With no other option, Trunks nodded. He expected to run, but instead found himself teleporting, realizing the stranger had a white horn with a green aura. Once they were ready, the unicorn warped Trunks away from the battlefield. Once the smoke cleared, Starlight and the others saw that Trunks vanished.
Groaning, Starlight screamed, "The Rebels! Of course they had to pop in!" she growled, looking around for the half-Saiyan, but he was gone.
"Ya think he was workin' for them?" a gargoyle asked.
The unicorn shook her head, "No. This was someone else. A so-called her. He thinks he can save this world, but many have tried before. I will alert the others of this happening and prepare for him."
Starlight paused, breathing heavily. "We'll meet again, Saiyan ." she said the last word with disgust, having made a new enemy this day.
Future Trunks opened his eyes, the white light fading away. He wiped his eyelids as the sudden brightness nearly blinded him. He saw that he was in a darkened room, filled with tables stacked with papers, chards, boards and a map of Equestria.
"Wh-where am I?"
The unicorn raised their hooves over their hood and draped it down, revealing a two-toned light purple mane. They then removed their gas mask from their muzzle, revealing their face. With a cough, she spoke, "You're in the Rebel base. We should be safe from Starlight and her army here." she explained.
Trunks raised a brow, seeing how big the place was. He could tell it was a primitive underground facility. "I see... Who are you anyway? And how did you find me?"
"You really weren't being subtle. Our secret cameras found you fighting off Starlight Glimmer and her army from the castle. I must say, I'm impressed by your abilities. My name is Sweetie Belle, and we are the Resistance."
Crossing his arms, the half-Saiyan sighed, "Resistance? Sounds like my home all over again."
Sweetie Belle raised a brow, "You're home?"
"It..." Trunks paused, "I-It's nothing to worry about. Are you able to fill me in on what's happening?"
"Of course... But first I should introduce you to my friends... Those who are able to fight." Sweetie Belle responded. She opened a door, gesturing for the Saiyan to follow. Trunks did so, seeing just how compact the space truly was. "We make sure to find as many ponies as possible, and take them back here, away from the wrath of the Dark Masters."
"Dark Masters?"
"That's what we call them." Sweetie elaborated. "They are the ones who turned this world into the wasteland you saw. We've been fighting them for years, hoping to end it."
Walking around were more ponies, all of them wearing armor of some sorts. Trunks noticed the tired, weary look on all of their faces, 'I have no idea how long they've been at this. Then again, I know first hand how tired they are. I hope Black hasn't done too much in my absence. Or that he follows me.'
Trunks gave the ponies a gratifying nod, showing his appreciation for what they're doing. Some of them even came to him, knowing of his battle against Starlight Glimmer and her army. The Saiyan waved off the praise, claiming that it was no problem.
Sweetie knocked on a door and faced Trunks, "This is the lab. The other fighters take refuge in here." she explained, seeing the door creaked open. On the other side were an orange pegasus mare with a red mane and a yellow earth pony with a red mane. The latter looked coldly out the window.
"Oh man. Are you the stranger that fought Starlight?" the pegasus asked in small excitement.
"Yeah... My name is Trunks. And you are..."
"Oh right. I'm Scootaloo and that's Applebloom. We're usually a four-pony team, but Spike's out on recon at the moment." Scootaloo explained, opening the door more to allow Trunks and Sweetie inside the lab.
The Saiyan raised a brow at the desk, "What's this supposed to be?" he carefully held up the device, prompting Scootaloo to flap her wings slightly to catch it out of his hands.
"Careful..." she warned, "This is a prototype. It's supposed to be a laser strong enough to blast through the magic of some of the tyrants. Sweetie and Applebloom have been helping with the study of how strong it should be."
Trunks nodded, "I see." he crossed his arms, "So this Spike person you mentioned. Why is he out on recon?"
"He's a dragon." Applebloom finally spoke, her cold stare never turning away from the window. "He's able to scout the area faster than any of us could for any potential hideouts the Dark Masters use to keep their slaves and minin' operations."
"It's about time you said something." Scootaloo groaned. Applebloom gritted her teeth at the comment.
Clearing his throat, Trunks spoke, "So all of you are the protectors of this land? Why did you find me?"
"Yes. We are the Equestrian Crusaders. Our goal is to save this world from the Dark Masters and preserve the future of this land from tyranny." Sweetie Belle said. "It's been more than then years." a sigh escaped her lips, "Anyway, the pony you rescued came to us and we acted as soon as possible. You actually stood on even ground with Starlight Glimmer."
"It's darn fluke." Applebloom snarled.
Scootaloo rolled her eyes, "And why do you say that, AB?"
The earth pony slammed her hooves on the bed, "Ya think he's the first symbol of hope we had? It'll be like before with the Guardians of Harmony, with the Princesses, Shining Armor. They're gone. What'll make this any different?" she questioned coldly.
"You mustn't think like the Applebloom. We need something to look up to." Sweetie Belle lightly scolded her friend.
"Oh, really?"
The Saiyan closed his eyes as he thought, 'Hope? I couldn't even save my own world from Black. And I couldn't even make it back to the other timeline. But... Maybe I'm here for a reason. Maybe I can save this world from the same fate as mine.' his hands curled into fists, 'But am I really able to?'
"I'm only doing what's right." Trunks said, ending the bickering, "I'll do whatever it takes to save this world before I head back to mine." he declared.
Scootaloo smiled and observed Trunks' being, "Thanks, Trunks. You're welcome to stay in the base. We can find you a room to stay in. Heck, is that all you have? Nice sword."
"T-Thanks. And yes, this is everything I have. I should go rest soon. Let's just say... I was busy before I ended up here and need a few minutes if I'm going to be at full strength."
"Busy? Full strength? What happened?" Sweetie wondered.
The time-traveller gritted his teeth, his mind going back to Earth. Black's arrival, his fight... But he exhaled sharply, choosing not to say anything. "I-I think we should explain everything once we've rested and Spike comes back. It's a long explanation. Applebloom was right in that my fight with Starlight was a fluke. For the opposite reason she's thinking." he revealed, doing his best not to sound boastful under these circumstances.
"Wait, what?" Scootaloo blurted out.
Trunks turned away and crossed his arms, "I'll explain everything once we've rested. If Spike is going to be joining us, I wish for him to hear about this as well so he's not confused on what's happening. You can all trust me, I promise I'll do whatever it takes to help you. And I can trust you as well."
Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle grinned at the Saiyan while Applebloom rolled her eyes. "Thank you again, Trunks. I didn't think we'd see anyone like you. You can trust us to aid you in anyway we can and explain what's happening in detail to you. It's the least we can do." whispered the white unicorn.
"Alright. May I see where I'll be staying?"
"I'll do it." Scootaloo stood up, "C'mon, Trunks. Gotta be tired from fighting Starlight and her minions, huh?"
"Yeah." the Saiyan yawned, the weariness from his battles catching up to him, "I guess I am." he said, 'The Senzu bean did enough. Even though Korin's no longer there, Yajirobe managed to make a pretty effective version. Though, a nap should bring me back to full strength. I'll need every but of it if this as dangerous as this sounds,'
Years Ago
Sombra hovered, using a spell to create a levitation spell. He watched from the cliffside the carnage and destruction he wrought. A smirk was on his muzzle. "It is done." he muttered, watching as thestrals, changelings and dark dragons sought to burn Ponyville.
Standing beside him were Starlight and Chrysalis. "We've done quite a lot in just a short time. Canterlot and Ponyville are ashes and the Guardians have perished. Tirek should be draining the princesses of their magic as we speak."
Nodding, Sombra replied, "Ah. Wonderful. Everything is going according to plan. What do you have to say, Starlight?"
Tears ran down the unicorn's wide eyes, "Y-You monsters..." she whispered through a sob. "D-Doing this..." her sob was halted by Sombra using a spell, shooting her with a beam. Her tears and crying ceased and gave an unemotional stare upon the destruction.
"Quite clever thinking, Chrysalis." Sombra said. "She's better off a puppet." he admitted.
Chrysalis put a hoof to her chest, "Why thank you, Sombra. Indeed, it was better to have her join our ranks. To throw Twilight and her friends for a loop."
As their laughter echoed, three fillies and a dragon hid behind a wall, avoiding the dark army patrol. Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Applebloom and Spike did their best to cease their crying. "W-Why?" asked Spike. "Why did he come back?"
"W-Where's R-Rarity... Twilight... W-Where?" muttered Sweetie.
Scootaloo turned her head around a corner, seeing that the coast was clear. She gestured for the others to follow her, doing her best to hide her emotions. Once they were in cover again, she inhaled, "What do you think? They're gone!"
"Sc-Scoots..." Sweetie muttered. "You don't k-know that..."
Slamming her hooves on the floor, the orange pegasus nearly shouted at her friends. "We have to face facts. They're dead, Sweetie. They were the targets. And Ponyville's in ashes." a quiet beat was passed among the four after Scootaloo's outburst. "I-I'm sorry..." she let out a quiet sniffle, "B-But... There's no way..."
Spike wrapped his around around the filly, "It-It's alright, Scootaloo. We just c-can't accept it though."
Sweetie wiped her nose, "Y-Yeah..."
Applebloom remained silent, the dragon ready to say something else to the filly.
"I-I know. There has to be something we can do." Spike agreed.
"What do you mean?" Sweetie and Spike asked.
Scootaloo shook her head, "These... bad guys can't win. I don't care how long it takes or how we do it, but Equestria needs somepony to protect it now more than ever. Even though our sisters and friends are... gone. We can keep fighting."
Spike nodded, "She's right. But we don't know who else is alive." he said, wiping a tear from his eye.
"Then we have to look. We have to try. If being with Rainbow Dash taught me anything, it's to not give up." Scootaloo added.
Sweetie Belle and Applebloom looked to their friend, "We're with you all the way, Scoots." said Sweetie, with Applebloom slowly nodding in agreement.
The dragon gave them a sincere grin, "Count me in as well. I have a bone to pick with Sombra anyhow."
"Then what does that make us? Equestrian Crusaders?" Sweetie Belle wondered.
"..." Scootaloo paused, bringing a hoof to her eye. "I guess we are."
The others looked to the farmpony, "Applebloom? You've been awfully silent."
The yellow earth pony sighed, "I'm fine." she lied. "Just shaken up."
"We understand." Spike replied, patting the pony's back in assurance. Showing that they had each other at least.
Now
Trunks sat, listening to the whole story. Sitting across from him were the three Crusaders and Spike, the dragon getting slightly taller as time passed, but still able to live in the hideout. The Saiyan absorbed every word. "I-I had no idea... No idea that this was so personal for each of you."
"I-It's fine, Trunks. We've been fighting them for years now." Sweetie assured.
Spike put a claw to his chin, "But it seems everytime we make some progress they always seem to take us a few steps back. We haven't taken down any of them in all this time."
Trunks folded his arms, "I see. That's not your fault then. I can see you've been fighting, that you're making an impact on these Dark Masters to have them know that there is someone, somewhere fighting against them."
Applebloom narrowed her eyes, "Like that's good enough."
"Applebloom." Scootaloo hissed.
The Saiyan looked down, despite getting rest, a part of him still felt tired. Tired of all the fighting, of all the destruction, death. But he knew that he had to win. No matter the cost. He heard Spike talk and listened, "But now you know what's happening. I think we're all wondering why you're here, Trunks?"
Sighing, the Saiyan looked to the Crusaders. "For the same reason as you... War."
"What?" Sweetie asked.
Trunks spoke up, "My world... There is almost nothing left. First, there were the Androids and Cell. I was the sole defender and strived to become stronger. Once I achieved that strength, I finally defeated them and thought to have brought peace."
"That doesn't sound so bad." Spike admitted.
Trunks closed his eyes, "But then he showed up. He dared to take the face of a beloved ally, a hero gone in my world. We call him Goku Black as we know it's an imitation. He... He..." he lut his hands to his head, recalling every detail. "He sought divine justice and then proceeded to massacre every city on the planet, killing any human in the way. I'm the only one strong enough to face him, but even I cannot end him." he muttered in distraught.
Sweetie put a hoof to Trunks' leg, "What did Black do?"
"Black... My world is in ruins because of him. I barely make it out alive each time we fight. I was in the process of getting help. I have a time machine."
"You what?" Scootaloo nearly yelled, "Can we use it?"
The Saiyan looked to the pegasus, "Sorry... But it's inactive right now. There was very little fuel my mother could gain and create before... Before Black got to her."
The Crusaders, except Applebloom, gasped upon his words. "I'm sorry, Trunks." Sweetie apologized.
"It's alright." Trunks assured, "But if I went back in time, I could get some help like I did with the Androids and Cell. My father, Gohan, Piccolo, and the real Goku. Before, I made sure they survived before going back to my time. They would no doubt be strong enough to face Black and end him before my world becomes ash."
Spike sat up, "So, instead of going back in time, you ended up here? Why?'
The blue-haired Saiyan shrugged, "I'm not sure. But I'm glad I arrived though. I can't let this world fall. Even if it means stalling against Black for a bit, this is important too."
"Do you think he's coming?" Sweetie asked.
Trunks shook his head, "I'm not sure. I haven't sensed him if that makes you feel any better. I wish to be gone by the time he figures it out though, so you all won't get involved in facing against him. The casualties are high enough as it is."
Earth
Goku Black hovered atop the destroyed city. "Just where did you end up, filthy Saiyan?" he asked. The god was unable to sense his energy. It was like he vanished. "Have you abandoned your world like a coward?" he asked no one in particular.
The dark Saiyan extended a hand, "Very well. The blood of these remaining mortals will be on your hands. Justice shall be brought at last." he declared.
On the ground was Mai and a few resistance soldiers, leading the remaining civilians to safety, making sure that Black doesn't find them below. A giant orb of energy nearly fell towards them, but luckily she found a manhole and blasted it open, allowing access. "Get in!" she ordered.
Everyone jumped into the sewers, closing the manhole behind them. Once they got to a surface. Mai wiped the sweat off her face. The hideout wasn't too far. Her face appeared bruised and bandaged, no doubt treated from distracting Black.
Mai sighed, 'Get back soon, Trunks. I'm not sure how much longer we can stall him for.'
Starlight Glimmer opened the doors of the dark castle, them illuminating the room with her bright purple aura. The unicorn's glowing eyes narrowed, disappointed with herself by not destroying that strange creature that claimed to be a hero. It was strangely silent, the only source of sound being her hoofsteps and the gargoyles and shuffled in their place next to the throne she was nearing.
Sitting on the throne was a black unicorn with a horn red on its tip, his eyes were blood red as a dark aura of smoke surrounded his body, giving himself a mysterious vibe. He wore a thick red cape, which strapped itself together to an amulet that looked like the face of a pony, he planted a hoof on his cheek in boredom as he exhaled, wondering why he had a visitor.
The unicorn politely bowed, ushering no words for a moment. "King Sombra, I must apologize. There were complications at the fortress in Ponyville."
Sombra raised a brow at Starlight's words, clearly interested, "Do go on, my puppet. What has happened?"
Raising her head, Starlight continued nervously, "It was sudden. There was a bipedal furless creature. He claimed to be from another world and had power unlike anything I have witnessed. He was able to hold off an entire force and was even able to withstand my magic." a mild pause, "It appeared that the Crusaders appeared during our fight and took him in, and they may have formed an alliance."
"He called himself a Saiyan."
With a hoof on his chin, Sombra muttered to himself, "Yes... This is indeed quite sudden. I will withdraw in punishing you this time, under the conditions that you do not fail next time. I will alert Tirek and Chrysalis of this small change, though."
Starlight suddenly held her head and knelt down, moaning some words to herself.
A smirk appeared on the Dark King's face upon witnessing this, "But first..."
With his horn lit bright red, he shot a thin beam onto Starlight's head, the purple unicorn ceasing her actions instantly. She slowly stood back up, "I will do as instructed, King Sombra." she muttered in a very robotic tone again.
Sombra rubbed his hooves together, "Yes... Now retreat back to your quarters in Ponyville. And do not disappoint me again. Otherwise, there will be Tartarus to pay, understand?"
The purple unicorn nodded and walked away, closing the doors behind her. Sombra hummed, "A Saiyan? That's quite new. No matter, I shall end him like I've done the other so-called heroes."
Trunks folded his arms, leaning on the wall, "So, what is this room exactly?"
Sweetie Belle raised a hoof and gestured to the many screens bolted to the walls, "The survelliance room. We have patrol ponies, dragons, anypony that is able to help us get a look at our surroundings. That's how we found you, Trunks. Anyway, for instance, Spike is one of them and each one is out for a certain amount of time so they're not discovered and attacked. We use this information to chart down maps for any future strategies."
"Well, what's the plan this time? Surely you must have an update on another location." the Saiyan suggested. "Or perhaps one of the Dark Masters could've been discovered by now."
Scootaloo agreed, "That's right. We recently discovered a mine near the capital of Equestria, Canterlot. We believe that's where Queen Chrysalis is residing and using her slaves in order to mine any materials to enhance her power."
Trunks raised a brow, "Queen Chrysalis?"
Applebloom rolled her eyes, "The leader of those bug creatures you fought. Yeah, she's the queen."
"Basically, the Dark Masters rule over certain territories. Starlight is here in Ponyville, Tirek has overtaken Manehattan, Chrysalis is in Canterlot, and Sombra resides at the Crystal Empire. Each of them have their own army, and like Starlight, Chrysalis seems to have an army beyond just her changelings, meaning the mines could be filled with security. It looks like she made a hive of it down there as well." the pegasus elaborated for the Saiyan.
Trunks closed his eyes, "I see. But the enslaved ponies are a priority. Once they're free, then I'll worry about Chrysalis."
"What? But nopony's been able to take on the Dark Masters head on, though. The mission should be to free the ponies, then worry about that bug!" Scootaloo countered.
Applebloom growled, "If he wants to act stupid to show off, then let him." she suggested.
Sweetie hissed, "Applebloom." she raised her voice for Trunks to hear, "No offense, Trunks... But this is a risky play for a first mission, to take on one of the Dark Masters, especially somepony as powerful as Chrysalis? It's too dangerous."
"I'm not one to show off, but the only reason I wasn't able to beat Starlight was because of her army and me being drained. I've fully recovered since my arrival. I'm not letting Chrysalis get away just to repeat this plan again later on. She's one of the people who brought this world down, and I want to make sure they all pay for what's happened here." Trunks declared, clenching his fist.
Sweetie raised a brow, "Really?"
Trunks replied, "Yeah. Like I said, I want to save your world. And I'll do whatever it takes. Even if it means facing them alone. What so I have to expect from Chrysalis."
Scootaloo perked up, "Oh, right. The changelings live up to their name. They're able to turn into whoever or whatever they want to in order to screw with their enemies' minds. Just be wary of that, it could be a trap."
The Saiyan spoke, "Alright. Then--"
An alarm blared off in that room, bringing the attention of the Crusaders to one of the monitors, where they were greeted by the face of Spike, who whispered, "Girls, Trunks... Can you read me?"
"Loud and clear, Spike. What's wrong?"
The camera Spike held turned around and faced a coccoon, in it was a changeling, but unlike the others, his wings looked to be cleaner and more majestic than his brethren, "It's Thorax. It looks like Chrysalis had him held here all this time. He looks tired, and beaten to near death. We have to help him!"
"Spike, I understand. But wait for us to arrive. It could be a trap."
The dragon growled, "I'm not leaving my friend behind, he's probabky been abused for being against his kind for all these years. Thorax could help us, and I'm not letting that chance go!"
"Wait, Spike!" Scootaloo pleaded, but the feed cut out, and she slammed her hooves on the table, "Damn it. We don't have time."
The Saiyan looked up after a moment of awkward silence, "I'll go alone then. Tell me where he's at."
"Are you sure, Trunks?" Sweetie Belle asked.
"Yeah, I am. Once I get there, I'll at least have Spike with me. If this is really his friend, then we can't leave him out there alone and I can make it there fast enough. Like you said, the changelings have probably surrounded the mines. Just keep me posted from here."
The Crusaders, except Applebloom gulped, "If you're sure, then here." the pegasus handed Trunks a headset, "It will allow you to communicate with us from here. I wish we could join you."
The Saiyan softly smiled, "Don't worry. Just lead me there, and I'll save Spike and Thorax." he hunched down and charged his Ki, intending to fly his way to where the dragon was.
Trunks sprinted down the halls and to the exit, where he hovered in the air, intending to find the mines. "Good luck, Trunks." Sweetie whispered.
