The Samurai Called Jack

Chapters

I: Gotta Get Back
II: Jack and the New World
III: Jack and the Ponies
IV: A Cry for Help
V: Jack and the Forest Monster
VI: Reflections
VII: Jack vs. the Bandits
VIII: Jack on a Train
IX: Jack vs. the Swordspony
X: Jack in Ponyville
XI: Jack's New Friends
XII: Jack's New Quest
XIV: Jack vs Mad Jack
XV: Spirit of Chaos
XVI: Jack and the Scotsman Reunite
XVII: Jack and Scotsman in the Empire
XIII: Jack's Reflection

I: Gotta Get Back

The blazing sun shone brightly on one of planet earth’s deserts. The wind blowing hard with sand and dust flying with it. On the sandy floor, a lizard was scurrying on top of a rock, before it quickly went down a hole to protect itself from the sandstorm.

But the lizard wasn’t the only sign of life this sandy terrain held. For coming up on the hill which the rock sat on, a lone, tall, white man, wearing a white kimono, white scarf, and a straw hat wandered the desert.

His destination...unknown.

The wind blew on his face so hard, that the man had to adjust the scarf wrapped around his neck to protect his face. Another hand reached up to the straw hat that covered his jet-black hair, and a Japanese chonmage underneath, making sure that it stays atop his head in the small sandstorm he found himself in.

A sigh escaped the white-robed man's mouth, clearly tired after yet another lengthy passage of time, wandering the planet. He had one goal in mind, one he hoped to reach one day. But for now, it was an endless quest around the world. He adjusted strap of the bag given to him for this seemingly long walk.

The sand-filled winds clearing a little, his journey found himself near a temple in the distance from the hill. He had heard from some villagers in a town he visited days earlier about an ancient artifact. One that lay within a temple found in the desert.

The people repaid him by giving him what he needed to survive out here alone. Though, he asked for no reward for his actions, he was nontheless grateful for the charity offered for aiding the people.

Thinking about that reminded him of why he was searching for this artifact in the first place. He was a samurai prince that was banished into the far future by the very foe that rules the very time he found himself in. A dark evil that went by many names, but one the best known to all even since he was a child: Aku.

The name alone earned another sigh from the samurai. This evil was the very bane of his existence. For years now, the demon had ruined the samurai's attempts to find a way back to his time and end Aku's reign before it could even begin.

It had been tiring in this world. He faced Aku's minions, had to adjust to this future, had met new allies in his quest, and met foes that sought to end his quest, like the many bounty hunters Aku sent to kill him so that his reign of tyranny would be eternal.
Seeing the stone temple in the distance, a smile formed on the man's lips. He pushed on, his sandals digging deep into the sand, but that did nothing to slow him down. Not now. Not when he was so close.

After a few more minutes, the samurai finally reached the temple. It was old in design as seen by the sand-covered stone architecture. But what got his attention were the sounds of something he was all too familiar with, something robotic and technological.

Quickly hiding by jumping high on the temple, he sees two beetle bots with red lights patrolling around the sides of the temple, with one even passing by where he was.

The beetle scanned the ground to see if anyone was in sight. Detecting nothing, it moved on to keep patrolling, leaving the samurai above to come to a realization on why they must be here.

‘Aku! He must've known about this temple,’ the man thought, ‘He must not know I was here or he will ruin my chance to leave once again.’

Seeing that the sandy winds were dying down at last, he removed the scarf and straw hat he had on. A stoic scowl was seen on his features and he placed his arms to his sides.

The man reached to a sheathe, his hand gripping around a hilt and he swfitly moved his arm, revealing his sword. His other hand gripped it as well. The samurai knew there were very few places to hide other than up top, which annoyed him because he needed a way to take out the robots without being discovered by any of them, or bringing awareness to this location and getting Aku's attention.
And with determination, the samurai quietly stepped forward on the temple’s surface, making sure he doesn't make a sound loud enough for the robots to notice.

He hopped off one of the stone stairs, seeing one of the robots turn around and investigate the side. The man gritted his teeth, jumping into the air and swiping his sword downwards.

SLASH!

The samurai landed on one knee, the robot pausing. The beetle bot then fell in half as oil splattered everywhere. With little time to plan, the samurai rolled to the corner and leaped again and cut apart the second robot, oil splattering everywhere with each slash before finally exploding.

Seeing that there was no more risk of being caught, the man held his sword high and had it swipe the top of his sheath before swiftly placing it back to his side. The man looked to the open entrance and walked inside.

The temple was dark, which the samurai expected. He reached into his bag and opened a bottle of water, which he chugged half of in mere seconds. His large thirst showed that he was clearly worn out. He was lucky that Aku only sent two robots to this location and didn't have to put up much of a fight against an army of them.

As he wiped the water and oil off his face, the man forgot to check his surroundings and accidentally stepped on a tile which lowered under the pressure of his foot. He looked to his side, seeing small holes on the wall and grabbed his sword once more.

Suddenly, a barrage of arrows came in his direction. With his swift reflexes, the samurai ducked, swerved his body and slashed any arrows that neared him. The assault lasted for about thirty seconds and he narrowly missed a few in the process, one of them missing his chin as it flew past. Then, the barrage ended. A sigh of relief came from the man, relieved that there weren’t anymore arrows.

He continued on, walking down a dimly-lit staircase. He looked to his side and grabbed a torch, using it to guide the way. Once he reached the bottom, the samurai saw a suit of armor. It was as still as a statue. But, he knew what the armor held was a trap and so placed the torch on the wall, revealing his sword once more in case of battle.

With each step, the samurai grew more alert. But then, the armor's eyes began to glow and raised the sword it wielded in its metal grip. The samurai's eyes widened and he held up his own blade toward the other, blocking the attack, creating a small spark of light from the direct collision of metal.

'State your business, intruder!' the armor roared, moving its blade in another direction, swiping horizontally.

The samurai rolled to the side, slashing the armor a little in the shoulders, denting them slightly. He landed on one knee, "They call me Jack. I wish to use the treasure hidden in here for one goal."

Swinging the blade upwards, the armored ghoul nearly struck Jack again, but the samurai blocked it once more. 'And what is that goal? State it or you will die!'

"To return to my time. And end Aku's reign." Jack declared. "He has sent me away from my original time to this time period, and I wish to return with the purpose of stopping him for good!"

Then, the armor ceased its next attack. 'Of course... You're the chosen one. The one to end the darkness that plagues our world.'

Jack had no idea how to respond, so he chose to remain silent. The guardian threw his giant sword onto the ground and planted it there.
‘Follow me, samurai.' he instructed.

Doing as told, Jack walked behind the guardian.

As they walked down another hallway, Jack noticed several hieroglyphs, one of which had a crude drawing of what appeared to be him fighting Aku. They came to a stop when they approached a door that appeared to have the biggest room in the temple.

‘For centuries, there was a prophecy. One where a samurai would come here, not to use the treasure for his own purpose, but to end the dark evil that has ruled us for eternity.'

"I see..." Jack nodded.

The guardian continued, 'You were destined to come here, Samurai Jack. That is why I must aid you.' he opened a door with the raise of his armored palm. Jack continued on silently, allowing the temple guardian to continue.

When they entered the room, Jack saw what appeared to be a small pedestal, containing a strange crystal-like orb that was shown by the sunlight coming from the ceiling.
'You were correct in finding something here. But there is a catch.' the guardian revealed, lifting the strange crystal-like orb, 'This orb cannot travel back to the point in time you seek.'

"Then what can it do?" Jack asked.

The temple guardian turned to face Jack as he held the orb, not surprised by the question he would likely ask.
'It can travel to another world. A world full of magic that can lead you back to the past. Should you run out of options, you can return here to the very moment you left and continue your quest here. A fair warning though, the locals there are quite different than what you would expect, but they are friendly and should they learn of your goodness can perhaps aid you. It is your choice, chosen samurai.'

Jack looked at the orb before him, deciding his options. His chance to return to the past could be found in this other world, yet he'd be leaving the planet in the hands of Aku. He closed his eyes, making his choice. Should he go, he has a chance to end this endless battle of good and evil.

But it could all be for nothing, like every other instance. He knew that there was a risk, and if there was even a slim chance, he knew what must be done.

For years, he had been close to ending his journey, but either Aku ruined the opportunity for him, or he had to give up the chance for the sake of another life. No doubt, in those situations, he would always give up the chance to protect the innocent, and he would still do. But he is given a second chance, and this time, he had a decision.

The samurai opened his eyes and finally decided, "I will go."

Though it couldn’t be shown, the armor gave off a feeling like it was smiling. As if he was happy that Jack made this choice.

'Very well, Young Warrior.' the guardian agreed.

The armored being handed Jack the artifact, which began to glow a bright blue. The samurai was blinded by the light and shielded his eyes, feeling himself warp away. Then, the samurai disappeared from his spot.

The temple warrior gazed at where the one called Jack was standing, knowing that Jack was going to be in for one big adventure.

'Good luck, Samurai Jack.'

II: Jack and the New World

The samurai's eyes snapped open. Jack found himself lying in grass and sat upwards. He rubbed his head and looked at the scenery around him. What he saw before him was a clean forest, full of life. For a moment, he thought the previous events to be a dream. But, recalling everything that happened, he looked in his bag, finding the very orb he used. Jack now knew for sure that it was all real and that he was in another world.

Back on his world, Jack had wandered around forests before, but there was very little life and there was always something wrong at every corner. Yet he always found them somewhat clean. It was a surprise really. But Jack remembered why he was here and so he stood on his feet.

It was like a routine for him at this point, always walking until he found a town to rest in until continuing his quest. Jack began walking, the grass crunching beneath his sandals. He saw a bunny hopping out of a bush and shuddering at the sight of him. Kneeling down, Jack put his hand out. The bunny inched closer and once it was in his reach, he began to pet it, a smile seen on his face.

The bunny then hopped away from Jack, not of fear though, but of relief and contempt. After the bunny disappeared, Jack stood up again.

‘It is quite nice,’ he thought, ‘So far, no sign of Aku's minions or corrupted animals.'

The samurai sighed when realization set in, 'I have left my world. But I cannot turn back now. Not when I have a chance to return to the past at last. I pray Aku does not become aware of my absence and comes here somehow.'

He thought back to the temple guardian's earlier words, about how the people of this world can help him. Despite what the guardian told him, Jack thought it to be his own effort to return to his time and not to bring anyone else along on his quest. He did not want anyone to get caught in the crossfire between him and Aku.

Of course, he had made some allies along the way, such as the Scotsman, which he considers a loyal friend. But they only meet each other every so often and is a protector himself, so Jack cannot burden him by asking him to come. He remembered the many tribes he aided, who also helped him back, usually in mastering a skill needed to save them. Such as when he learned to 'jump good'.

While in his thoughts, Jack took in the scenery. The sun beamed in his face and the warm wind brought comfort in the weather. Birds were chirping and the solace of nature greeted him. Despite being in another world, Jack had to focus on his mission, no matter where he was at.

And so the samurai walked ahead. To parts unknown.

Time had passed, and Jack calmly walked through the forest in a slow pace. After exploring his own world for what felt like years, he's learned to have patience more than ever and has always wandered in this pace. The samurai inhaled, taking in the scent of nature, not tainted by Aku or by any other outside force or pollution.

The grass rustled under his sandals with each step he took, being the only sound heard besides the birds chirping. He softly smiled, looking at the life surrounding him. His hands remained by his sides, near his sheath just in case something goes awry. He didn't know how soon he would arrive at a town, but he knew that he had to be close.

Then, he saw something posted on a tree ahead of him. Some signs. Signs that must be giving directions to the nearest city. At his normal pace, he strolled over to have a closer look at the signs. The sign at the top said ‘The Town of Fillydelphia’. The sign at the bottom said ‘Five Miles Ahead’. This was good news for him.

‘At least now I know I’m getting close to a place to rest,’ he thought, ‘But why is it called Fillydelphia?’

Deciding he would find out once he got there, he continued onward.

After a mile of strolling, the lone samurai raised a hand onto his forehead, blocking out the bright sunlight seeping through the trees. He had no clue on the specific time, but that was something he decided to worry about once he finally arrived at the town.

But something else got the samurai's attention. Rumbling. He knew this to be a warning. A warning that something was about to go wrong. His hand slowly reached for the handle of his blade.

Another rumble from the ground was heard and felt. His eyes narrowed with each rumble, which seemed to get louder and closer.

Animals ran past him in fright, hopping, running, and flying away. Jack knew that whatever was coming, it was coming in his direction. And so, the samurai revealed his sword. He aimed his blade right in front of him, ready for a fight. Then, the source of the noise revealed itself.

A strange wooden creature towered in front of him. It had vines for arms and a wooden body, head, and legs shaped like a wolf. Jack brought his head up to better face the monster.

"Excuse me, but I ask that you turn away now. I do not wish to use lethal force against a creature such as yourself."

His plead fell on deaf ears. The monster lowered its head and roared directly in his face. Then a gag, revealing the fur of that of a rabbit. Jack scowled, seeing a vine arm fall right in his direction. The samurai hopped backwards, avoiding the plant-like limb aiming for him. He inhaled, then exhaled sharply, dodging another vine arm trying to crush him.

"Very well, vile creature." Jack declared, "You shall not harm another living creature today."

Without a moment to spare, Samurai Jack leaped into the air, sword held over his head and teeth gritting. He swung the blade downwards, striking at the arms, cutting them in one slice. The vines he tore apart fell to the ground, but the samurai wasn't expecting vines to appear and lash out to him from the creature's back. The plants came in Jack's direction as he landed on the ground.

He swung his sword in many directions, deflecting each vine the best he could. Eventually, they started to out maneuver his speed and tangle up his legs, hanging him upside-down instantly. He felt himself being brought upwards and found himself face-to-face with the strange creature once more, who roared.

Spit and drool flew past the samurai, narrowly avoiding his being. The man groaned in disgust at the sight. He realized his arms were still free somewhat and swung his arm down, cutting a few vines that covered his right leg, freeing it and allowing himself a kick as he cut his other leg free at last.

He dropped back onto the ground, seeing the cut vines coming for him. Jack gritted his teeth, focusing his efforts in stopping the vines from grabbing him again. He slashed upwards, downwards, horizontally. Each plant limb fell apart with each slice.

With the vines gone for the moment, Jack leaped once again, driving his sword into the leg of the creature, slicing the knee so that it collapsed under its weight. The monster began to fall down and used its other leg to get its bearings. Another roar was heard, this one of slight pain from the attack.

Its head hung in shame. That was when Jack revealed himself again, sword pointed outward.

“Leave. Before you give me no choice." he ordered.

The monster whimpered and limped away from Jack, the samurai double checking to make sure it doesn't harm another creature as it left his line of sight. He knew that it won't do anything wrong with its arms cut like that.

His sword edged the sheath before he pushed it back in swiftly again, another battle finished.

The samurai sat down for only a moment, reaching into his travel bag. He opened the bottle of water and took a quick sip. He thought about the small fight he had with the creature. The samurai now knew there were hostile creatures here as well, meaning that he had to remain alert at all times, in case another creature like the one he saw came by to cause trouble. He knew they were only living by nature, which is why he spared it, despite probably having no qualms of it back on his world. He refused to take another life on this world until he learned more of how it is.

With those thoughts aside, the samurai stood up, and kept going.

Completing his five mile trek, Jack saw a small town ahead, and shielded his eyes from the sun to focus better. From where he was at, he could see neon colored horses, which surprised him.

‘I can see why it must be called Fillydelphia.’ he thought.

As curious as he was though, he decided that he will get answers once he arrives there.

The sun had begin to set as he neared it, time seemingly passing from the fight. Good. This meant that there would be less to notice him if his earlier observation was correct.

Author's Note

Please forgive the shorter chapter length. This is mainly set-up and will probably be like this for a few more.

III: Jack and the Ponies

Jack finally reached the town. Once he entered, he decided to get more answers of the world he was in from within. He wished to keep to himself, and not cause any conflict in his very temporary stay. He also hoped that the locals of this town were more welcoming than some other spots he's been to. It was here, he got a closer look at neon-colored horses walking by. Many of them had horns or wings or none at all. He can definitely tell that the ones with horns were unicorns, and the ones with wings were pegasi. They were giving him strange looks, which he did to shrug off.

'It seems these equines have never seen a human before.' he thought.

He began giving each pony a friendly wave, showing that he was not hostile. That didn't stop some of them from shuddering, shivering, and have agape jaws at the mere sight of him.

‘Perhaps I should have been more discreet about my appearance.' he sighed, disappointed in himself for not thinking ahead.

But, he saw a run-down building, with a cup as a logo on a sign hanging above the door. He recognized it as a bar and so he entered in, having plenty of experiences getting information from such a place.

He grabbed a straw hat from his bag, placing it over his head to conceal his face better. He had to lower himself slightly in order to enter the building and walked in. When he did, he saw ponies insider who were giving him strange looks just like the one outside. All except for a greenish-yellow pony with a horn who was obviously the bartender. He approached the counter and quietly sat himself down on a stool next to it.

Instead of tapping or yelling, Jack simply awaited the bartender to acknowledge him. He was getting more weird glances in his direction, but chose to ignore them, simply folding his hands on the bar. The bartender, appearing to be older, gave the samurai a quick glance before trotting to him.

"Excuse me, stranger," Jack muttered, "But do you have a clue as to where I am at?" he asked kindly.

The bartender chuckled, "Heh. Haven't seen somepony like you around these parts. What brings you around here, anyway?"

"I do not wish to bring anyone harm." the man assured, raising a palm in honesty, "I seek to gain information."

The older stallion opened his mouth, "Ah. You must be new around here. Welcome to Fillydelphia, sir. A town that is a part of the land of Equestria. Don't mind the ponies confused by ya showing up. A stallion of my age has seen many things anyhow. Best not to question this anymore. So welcome, stranger."

"Thank you." Jack mumbled with a small nod. "It has been a long day."

"Ya want something? Water?" the bartender offered. "You must be tired after your travels."

"I cannot. I do not have the currency." Jack declined.

Smiling, the bartender passed a small cup of water to the samurai, earning a look of confusion from his customer.

“Consider it on the house for a newcomer to Equestria." the bartender said.

"...Thank you." Jack said, taking a sip.

A gruff voice and the sound of slamming made Jack raise his head.

"Hey!"

Looking in a mirror, he saw that it was a hornless and wingless blue stallion with red hair standing at the entrance/exit.

Fearing that a conflict was likely to ensue, he remained calm and still, his hand still gripping the mug the elder bartender handed him. His eyes were narrowed, focusing on what's ahead of him and not the sound of the seemingly angered voice, choosing to remain neutral. He heard and felt hoofsteps getting closer and louder and he could tell that whoever it was, he was very angry.

The bartender, meanwhile, rubbed a rag into a dirty mug, taking his time in cleaning it. His time working made him numb to any vocal outbursts, but he would intervene if things got violent.

"Why does this stranger get a free drink, huh,” the pony asked with a snarl, "He's not even a pony for Celestia's sake. So, why does he get a free pass, huh?"

The bartender narrowed his eyes, "He's new to Equestria. Thought it'd be a nice gesture,” he said calmly with no hint of fear in his voice. "Guy has no money now."

"But yet when I have no money you make me pay anyway and I can't drink!"

Sighing, the bartender replied, "I shouldn't have to explain this to you again, Clear Can. You come here every night and practically drink everything I have in the back. I'm only lookin' out for you by limiting you like this. In fact, it looks like you already had too much. Why don't you just sit and--"

Clear Can slammed his hooves on the counter, making everyone in the bar flinch in surprise and gaze at the drunk and angered pony.

“Listen! I do not need to be babied! I am a grown stallion, Mug Tapper! I'm a loyal customer!"

The other customers were ready to step in once the silence kicked in, but one voice stopped their efforts.

"Stop."

Hearing the sound of the voice, Clear Can took one long glance at Jack, who remained in his spot. "Oh, look at that! The funny lookin' stranger thinks he can square against me! You lookin' for a fight?"

Shaking his head, the human answered, "No, I am not. I am asking you to quietly leave. You are disrupting the other patrons here." he never faced the drunken pony while making this command.

Clear Can laughed, "Ha, so you think you can boss me around," he stood on his hind legs and reared a front off back, "Listen here, pal! I don't like others tellin' me what to do!"

He brought his reeled hoof forward, with the attempt to hit Jack.

But the samurai swiftly caught his hoof, and took a sip of his water. He tried to defuse this matter peacefully, but unfortunately, some do not listen to reason, even if it is the better solution. Surprised, the stallion tried again, only to get blocked again.

"How?"

Jack sighed, flipping Clear Can over his shoulder once he saw an attempted kick. The samurai tossed him onto a table, where he landed with a thud. He tried to fight back, but a few other ponies held him down. Jack gave them a gratifying nod, thanking them for their assistance, and he watched them escort Clear Can out.

"I am sorry for making such noise." Jack apologized, drinking the last of his water.

Mug Tapper raised a hoof, "Don't worry. Clear Can always has too much when he's here. At some point I should just put out a ban for him soon enough. But business comes first, ya know?"

Jack nodded, "I understand. Perhaps it would be for the best if I left."

Shaking his head, Mug Tapper pointed at the other patrons, "Why, stranger? Ya aren't ruinin' anypony else's night."

"I’m glad I am not. But I have to keep moving. I can't stop until I reach a goal that I have had for a long time,” Jack declared, standing from the stool and going towards the door. "Thank you for the water."

Mug Tapper nodded earnestly, "It was no trouble at all. I wish you the best of luck in wherever you're headin', and feel free to come back. Heck, I don't even know your name."

"...They call me Jack." was all the samurai said before making his exit.

After he left, the ponies looked on from where Jack. They felt very curious about what he was up to, but, they decided to keep going about their day.

Jack continued his quest in silence. Those passing by watched the samurai move past them without saying a word. Jack decided it was for the best. After all, he was not here to socialize, but rather, bring an end to his journey. He had no clue on where to head next, or in his case, what he could do to get back to his past.

It was at that moment, Jack found another building with a sign that read 'Fillydelphia Pawn Shop'. Perhaps he could gain more information from there. With nothing else to do, Jack entered the building. Inside it, he saw glass displays, with unique artifacts, toys, books, anything of value. The samurai ignored all those and went to the desk with a female orange pony with wings standing behind it.

"Excuse me." Jack quietly called out, gently placing a hand on the counter.

The pony turned around, taken felt aback by Jack, "Well, this is new. Heh, good evening sir. I'm Fast Keeper. What may I help you with? Something specific you're lookin' for?"

Nodding, Jack spoke, "It is not material I seek. But rather, information."

Fast Keeper raised a brow, "Information, eh? What kind?"

Jack paused, "I am on a journey. One that I wish to end soon. Do you know of something that can go back in time?"

"Time travel?" a chuckle escaped the pawnkeeper, "I'm not into treasure huntin' honestly. I'm a pawnkeeper. But I have heard of a few legends."

Jack frowned, "I see. What have you heard of?"

Fast keeper raised a hoof, "Well, I ain't too sure on it myself. It's been years since I've heard of it. I do recall a story of an artifact called the Chronos Compass. It is said that there are pieces of it scattered across Equestria, and whoever collects all the pieces can use it to travel across to their desired spot in time, with each piece leading to the next. But that's all there's been: legends."

Jack sighed, "Well, from my world, there have been plenty of artifacts proven real." he revealed.

This was starting to remind him of the pieces of the Threads of Time he had to collect, each connecting to a bigger rope.

“Perhaps there is someone who knows more of this." he wondered.

Fast Keeper shrugged, "You can check down in Ponyville. Lots of weird stuff has happened there. That's where Princess Twilight Sparkle lives. Perhaps she has more to offer. Heard she's a bit of a bookworm. I'm only goin' off by what I remember. Now, did that help you any?" she asked.

"Yes it did. Thank you for bringing this to my attention. I would ask for a map, but since I am new to this world, I cannot pay for any of your antiques." Jack admitted.

Without a problem, the pawn-shop owner dug into a box anyway and brought out a neatly folded piece of paper on the counter. "Here. Consider it a gift for a newcomer. Here in Equestria, we're all about welcoming. And so far you seem like a friendly fella. It details every location of this nation."

The samurai was taken aback by the pawnkeeper's generosity. Perhaps this world was more friendly than he gave it credit for. He opened the paper and looked at the map. He saw Ponyville and how far it is. He had no time to waste,

“Thank you for this, miss. Now, I must be on my way. I will pay you back when I get the chance."

"Ah, don't worry about it. You need it more than I do anyway." Fast Keeper waved off, "I'm just glad to help an explorer like you. Do tell me if you found out if the compass is real. It'd be great information." she chuckled.

Jack smiled, "I will. Thank you again for this."

And with that, Jack walked out. Now, he had a new goal: head to Ponyville. It will take a while and a few pitstops, but he had to get there as soon as possible. If he were to find out more about the Chronos Compass, he can perhaps finally end his journey once and for all.

It was like he never left home.

IV: A Cry for Help

Jack looked at the map again, wondering if he was going in the right direction. He had no idea as to how to traverse this world. So far, unlike the Aku-ruled world he came from, it seemed primitive in terms of travelling. He was on the border of the town he was just in, deciding to get a headstart in reaching Ponyville.

The samurai had no idea how long he could go on peacefully before Aku discovered that he was gone. That was why he had to hurry. Any minute wasted could alert the master of darkness of his presence within this peaceful world instead of the one he rules.

Looking in his bag, Jack looked at the supplies he had gotten from Fillydelphia. A few bottles of water, and bags with fruit and vegetables to satisfy his hunger. It will have to do for now until he reaches another town to stop in.

Jack placed the strap of the bag on his shoulder, rolling up the map like a scroll and placing it in a pocket on the side, making it easier to reach for it should he need to look at it.

The samurai took a quick look back at Fillydelphia, and then began his trek, his next stop unknown.

It felt like hours for the samurai. The sun began to rise over the horizon, revealing that a whole day had passed since he arrived in the world of Equestria. Luckily, he got his rest back at Fillydelphia and was able to push on through the night. He leaned on a tree, choosing to take a break from walking.

'If I am correct,' Jack thought, grabbing the map to look at it for a moment, 'Then I am to arrive in Ponyville in a few days by foot. Perhaps there is a quicker method to reach it.'

The man placed the map back in the bag and looked ahead, seeing more forest for what looked like miles. With a heavy sigh, he moved on, hoping to find something. When suddenly...

"Help... Me..."

A very quiet groan sounded. It made Jack pause in his tracks. Unable to ignore a plead for help, the samurai stepped backwards, hoping to find the source of the voice. He turned his head, looking into the shadows of the deep forest in the direction of where it was dark and eerie looking.

Gently placing a hand on his sheath, Jack pulled out his blade and held it by his side, keeping it ready just in case something were to jump out at him.

Slowly, he moved forward into the dark path to find whoever needed his help.

Jack cut through vines and branches, making it easier for him to traverse on. He ducked underneath a few pieces of wood that were too close to him, avoiding any bumps to the head. The samurai placed a hand on the bark, keeping himself steady as he walked over molded logs lying on the ground.

"Please... help..."

The samurai noticed that the voice he heard was getting ever so slightly louder. He pushed on, making sure nothing could halt him. He admitted that for someone that quiet his voice could he heard far, as though he was one with the forest.

It was at that moment, Jack saw a pony inside of a pit, covered in bramble and leaves. He appeared to be stuck underneath the debris and was unable to move even a single hoof to free himself. Jack also saw that the pit was littered with skeletons of various creatures, even ponies.

"D-Don't hurt me..." he pleaded, closing his eyes in fear.

Jack raised his hands, "Do not worry. I am here to help you. What has happened to you?"

"I-I was walking through this part of the forest. Then a-all of a sudden, all of these leaves and branches fall off. They're the size of a log..." he wheezed. "I-I've been unable to move since.”

The samurai nodded, kneeling down. "Do tell me. Why were you deep in this forest to begin with. It appears to be quite a dangerous terrain."

"I-I'm an explorer,” the pony revealed slowly, "I was wandering these parts... But then... Well, y-you know the rest. I've been trapped for a whole day! A day without food, water, or warmth. J-Just help me, please..." he begged.

Jack stretched his hands, reaching out for the bramble, "Very well. I will help you. But you must head to the town nearest here. It is only a few hour walk. Go there and rest until you have fully recovered and eaten."

"O-okay..." whimpered the pony.

The samurai took off as much debris as he could, helping the pony get free. But something caught his attention. He tried prying on the vine stuck to his back, but it refused to budge. He lifted as hard as he could, but it did not move. After a moment, he wiped the sweat off his forehead and looked at the vine that lay on the stallion.

“My apologies, stranger. But it appears this will take some time to remove. But do not worry, it will not take too long." he assured, reaching for his sword.

"Heh heh..." a quiet snicker was heard.

Jack turned his head.

"Did you just chuckle...?" the man asked.

The pony turned his head, a cracking sound heard. Jack reeled back in disgust at the sound. "Hehehe... HAHAHAHAAAA!" the chuckles turned into insane laughter.

Jack watched as the stallion's eyes began to glow blood red as he began to stand on all four hooves, or rather, transform as it stood. Even the face changed.

The vine on him turned out to be how he towered over Jack. Its hooves transformed into branch limbs. Its laughter disturbed the samurai a little, bringing himself to watch the transformation.

When he completed his transformation, what Jack saw before him was not a pony, but a monster. The leaves and brambles were on its body as if they were part of it’s skin. He had four black gnarly arms and hands made of wood, and a snake like body made out of black vine. Its head looked like that of an eagle, with black reptilian like slits as the corneas for the eyes.

The sight of the beast disturbed Jack a little, but it was not enough to make him flee.

V: Jack and the Forest Monster

“What are you?" Jack asked as he looked at the creature.

"You fell for the oldest trick in the book, stranger,” the monster told him, “Many have fallen to this trap and perished. And you shall be no different! I am known as a Target Plant! I test those who seek to be the best! When they fail, I eat them! And you will fail like all those before!"

"You have fooled my sense of justice, monster!" Jack grunted, holding his blade out in front of him. "Once I best you in combat, you will never harm another living creature again. You will also tell me how to reach Ponyville."

"Ha! A foolish set of terms for one who is about to lose!" the plant monster bragged, "Very well! Do your best, samurai!"

And so, Jack leaped in the air, sword in hand, ready for another fight.

He brought down his sword, hard enough to break apart the vine of the monster that had fooled him.

"You have made a mockery of honor, which you apparently lack." the samurai noted, his feet gently touching the grass.

“As if I care, fearless warrior. It is my duty to test those who cross this path in the first place." the monster roared.

The monster by then brought one of his branch arms down to Jack. But the man rolled out of the way to the left, leaning on the side of a tree and his hand on the ground, tightly gripping the sword’s hilt.

Jack frowned, “I do not care for your trial of combat. I only wish to pass and reach what I seek.”

The Target Plant smirked, “Many have said the same, but they did not last long before they met their fates. Only a warrior with a pure heart can dare to pass me in fighting.”

That surprised Jack. It felt like a trial he’d face back on his world.

He raised his sword up as he asked a simple question, “Why should it matter who crosses? It is not your place to fool the righteousness of those who will aid those in need no matter what.”

“Because what lies beyond this forest shall not be seen by any mortal eyes. I am just a guardian doing his job. Surely you understand. There were those who came for selfish purposes,” he defended, “Do you not agree in taking the life of those who had it coming?”

Jack growled, “I am a warrior with honor. I will not take the life of anyone who doesn’t deserve justice. It is not who I am.” he declared, standing his ground on the subject.

“Then your stubbornness will be your end!” the creature roared.

The Target Plant by then made thorns come out of his hands, aiming them downwards on to the samurai. A few thorns landed on Jack, making him flinch in pain. He looked to see his arm and saw a few thorns piercing into his skin. He pulled them out as fast as he could, seeing dots of red drip. Once he was clear, he faced the monster again.

“I am not here for merely myself. I wish to save my world from the wrath of a tyrant. He has exhausted all my options and I have only come here to seek a way back to my time period to assure victory in defeating him before his reign begins.” he revealed.

There was a moment of silence passed among the two. The ambience of the forest being the only source of sound around them. The samurai wondered how this guardian would react to his truthful words and remained still. But the guardian leaned down and said.

“If you are telling the truth, then you must prove your righteousness by beating me in a simple duel. If you are lying like those before you, then you will perish here. It is quite the simple ultimatum, samurai. Which will you take?” the guardian asked.

Jack held his blade to his side and decided to take the risk. He could not afford to stop here. Not when the answers he seeked were in Ponyville.

“I will challenge you, beast. But only because I wish to pass by and get answers. I will not falter to you.”

“Then let it be done, samurai.”

Jack grunted, driving his blade forward onto the vine leg of the creature, making it stagger in the air. The monster sent out more thorns and tossed them at the samurai. Jack flipped backwards, using his momentum to kick himself off a tree and using his sword to cut apart the tiny projectiles that were being tossed at him with precision.

The lone samurai gritted his teeth, feeling a stinging sensation in his legs once he landed with a frontflip. He saw a line of thorns directly on his legs, all lined up. He growled, taking each one out individually. Jack rolled to the side when one of the monster’s arm attempted to crush him.

He sliced the arm apart swiftly, seeing it fall to the ground with a powerful thud, creating a small tremor. Jack spun in the air, doing the same to the second arm in a matter of seconds. His sword created a loud sound as it collided with the plant, the samurai knowing it all too well from combat.

And Jack landed, seeing spear shaped wooden arrows coming directly from the guardian’s back. Jack held his sword horizontally, in front of his face, making sure to aim his counter slashes perfectly. The first came down and the man backed up swiftly with a hop, seeing it lodge itself onto the ground. A smile was seen on his lips.

The second came down at last and Jack swung his blade upward, cutting the projectile in half and having the two ends land at his sides in a symmetrical cut from the sides. He leaned to the left, dodging the next two spears coming for him adjacent to one another, and he ducked, seeing them pinned to a tree once he turned around.

The last was coming down upon the lone hero, but Jack saw it coming and used his sword to cut it into miniature pieces. He could hear the monster roar and grumble in annoyance, possibly from a lack of tactics to take him down considering how easy his last targets were.

Then, Jack found himself an opening and jumped on the branches of the trees around him, seeing a glowing spot on the monster. He drove his sword through it, shattering the apparent crystal and shrinking the monster to the size of a cat. A loud scream of pain was heard from it as its distorted voice changed back to a less exaggerated tone.

Jack looked down once he landed, seeing the altered guardian lying on his back and coughing. “Please… End me… I have taken the lives of m-many… I do not deserve mercy. You have won the trial.”

The samurai looked down in pity, “I have told you. I will not take the life of another like this. No matter what, the lives of those such as yourself, flesh and blood, shall be preserved.”

The creature managed a smile, “Y-You truly are a hero.”

Shaking his head, Jack balled his hand into a fist as he declared, “No, I cannot be called a hero until I save my world. I only do what I was trained to do. To protect others. Even if I were to lose my way, I will not stop helping those who are in need.”

A cough was heard, “Perfect. You may pass me, chosen samurai. Know that this is a shortcut to your desired location: Ponyville. In the cavern beyond me, you witness many things. All familiar to you. It shall be an experience. Now, I shall repay my debt to you…” he said, standing up, “For succeeding in my trial, I will no longer kill. You have shown me mercy. It is fair that I do the same for others.” he announced.

Jack politely bowed, “Thank you, guardian of the forest. Now I must be on my way.”

The guardian smiled, “Good luck, warrior. For you will need it in your quest.”

The samurai needed those words, wandering deeper into the forest. With another battle done, it was time to reach his next stop in reaching Ponyville and ask Princess Twilight for assistance.

VI: Reflections

A few moments after his encounter with the Target Plant, Jack finally reached the cavern that the guardian told him about. As scary as this cave may seem to him because of the pitch black darkness it had inside, Jack knew that that would not stop him. He courageously continues on.

He stepped into the cave, lowering his guard for only a moment. He was unsure of what lied inside and what this cavern contained, but the guardian of the forest claimed that it was not meant for anybody to see. But only meant for the eyes of a true warrior.

The samurai looked around, seeing that the walls of the cavern were a reflective surface, like glass or ice. He stared at his reflection for a moment, wondering why that was the case. Looking at the glass also reminded him of that time he found himself in a cavern where reflections of himself came out of the walls and tried to kill him. He knew that if this was anything like that, he will need to be ready.

As he kept looking at himself, his reflection began to change as did the surface. Flames began to appear in the walls as a loud burning noise rang in his ears. He was right. This cave wasn’t as different as the one he thought of.

Memories flooded back in his head.

But when he was able to pull his head up to take a glance at what the wall showed him once the flames died out, he saw something that utterly astonished him.

He saw his home. His time period. But what caught him off guard was the child being shielded by his parents from the dark entity forming and towering over his own home and city.

‘That is me... When I was young.' Jack realized, 'This is certainly unexpected. Why is this cave showing me this?’

It was there, the samurai watched the dark entity form as a voice echoed in the caverns...

‘Long ago...in a land of plenty and peace... Aku, the shapeshifting master of darkness, unleashed an evil that enslaved an entire village, and took away many lives...’

Flashes of Jack's training in his youth flashed on the walls, detailing every moment that he spent preparing himself for his greatest battle. The samurai watched the memory of him holding the sword needed to defeat Aku for the very first time, saving his parents of royalty, and freeing his village from the wrath of the demon.

'But a young boy was able to escape the demon’s wrath, and become a heroic samurai warrior. With a magic sword in his hands, he bravely stepped forth to oppose him...'

The very first battle between Jack and Aku was shown on the wall now. The dark tyrant's power of shapeshifting was demonstrated as well as the samurai's skills in combat. The two dueled for moments within the cave he resided in, until finally, Jack had been able to beat the villain.

It came to a halt once Aku was lying on the ground, his shadowy figure helpless to the eye.

‘But, before the final blow was struck...’

The walls by then show Aku opening a portal as his sword was raised, preventing him from destroying the being, and causing him to fall inside of it.

‘...the tyrant tore open a time portal, and flung the samurai into the future, where his evil reigns throughout the entire planet.'

'Now the hero seeks to return to the past, and undo the future that is ruled by Aku...'

At that moment, a blue spirit appeared before the samurai, taking his own form as the reflection of Jack.

“Greetings, warrior from another world,” he calmly greeted, and raised a hand in a friendly gesture. "I am the guardian of the Cavern of Reflection."

Shaking his hand, the samurai remained silent for a moment before responding, "Why are you showing me my past, guardian? For what purpose is this?"

"It is to determine if you are a warrior worthy to cross this path. Those who come shall be tested based on their actions to declare if they are to be deemed as such."

Furrowing a brow, the man asked, "Worthy for what?'

The guardian closed his eyes, "We know all about why you are here, samurai. We know of you seeking out the Chronos Compass. For the sake of your quest, we can only aid you to reaching Ponyville, which is where you will seek answers. This is a journey you shall discover for yourself. But first we must determine if you are ready to wield such power."

On the wall showed many of Jack's countless journies. With his arrival he immediately aided an excavation crew in defeating Aku's forces, freed an all-powerful race from abuse and slavery, helped a couple of humans in escaping the planet, sacrificing his own shot at travelling back in time for their safety. Jack's eyes widened at his many deeds and heard the guardian.

"You have shown great courage and sacrifice. That is to be commended,” the spirit admitted, "But of course..."

An image flashed on the wall. It appeared to be Jack, but his hair was down and unkempt, his eyes were red and his kimono was black instead of white. The samurai immediately recognized who it was, despite not seeing that form for a very long time. It was Mad Jack.

"Every hero has flaws. Yours being your inner warrior, which Aku had manifested into a true form, a side you wish to keep calm and collected through a stoic nature and have matured through."

More images appeared on the wall, showing Aku and Jack fighting countless times. Whether it be in person, or through an assassin such as Demongo, dark magic and manipulations such as the Blind Archers, or even taking the form of another being to fool him, like the mercenary in the desert soon after he arrived.

"You have made an enemy in Aku, the very being you seek to end. You have never stopped in fighting him, and seemingly never will until he is gone."

"Correct." Jack stated.

"You have given up many opportunities for the sake of others. You seek to return home. You continue to fight despite the odds being seemingly against you. That is commendable as well."

"Thank you.” said the samurai.

The spirit's formed changed to that of a pony, "But there is something you lack, samurai. Allies. For most of your time wandering the world in which you have been stranded, you have been fighting alone, and with only a few allies, which have never stuck around with you for reasons."

Images appeared on the wall of those that had helped Jack: the village he aided when he arrived, the gorillas that taught him to jump good, and of the man he could rely on the most when it came to combat against Aku's forces: The Scotsman.

"You have no one to join you in your quest unless your paths cross. Here in Equestria you have allies who can join you. You seek to reach Ponyville, but I will give you an option." the spirit gestured to a fork in the cavern, "There are two paths, the left will take you to a nearby town with a train station, from which you will reach Ponyville in a single ride. The other will take you the same way, but you may get a vision of your future. You have earned the right to enter should you seek what you will undergo."

Jack shook his head, and walked in the left path, "Thank you, but I do not need to see my future. For now, I will determine my own path and return home."

The spirit bowed his head, "Very well. Best of luck, Samurai Jack."

And so, Jack left the cavern, his goal to Ponyville getting ever closer. The spirit glanced down at the right path, looking at the clear reflective wall. "Wise choice. His future..."

Images of Jack's future appeared. He appeared aged, yet he did not at all. A beard was on his face and instead of his kimono he wore protective armor. To be noted was his lack of his sword, instead choosing to use various weapons like guns and spears. He was back on his world, sitting in a campfire, and was speaking to no one, pleading as though he was talking to the ghosts of his past. That he had lost hope.

"Fifty years later...a lost sword...and no hope..." the spirit whispered, "He may be able to prevent it."

VII: Jack vs. the Bandits

After three days of nonstop ambulating, and since he met the cavern guardian, Jack finally sees another town from outside of the trees. He was glad that the guardian guided him to the right spot, and that he didn’t choose the path that would foretell his future. The samurai did not need to know of his fate, after all, he believed to be one to determine his own future. One that he would shape with righteousness.

He spotted a wooden sign attached to a tree that said ‘Whinnyapolis’, which was apparently what this new place was called. He then continued on, glad to see another town.
****
A few minutes later, as he stood a foot away in front of Whinnyapolis, Jack sighed. He recalled that apparantally there was a train station that could take him to Ponyville. He had been wandering for over a day and even he grew weary after such a long time. Although, the samurai had to admit that it was strange wandering around without having to worry about Aku chasing him.

'But how long can this peace last? If I am absent long enough, Aku may grow aware of my disappearance.' thought Jack, realizing what was at stake. 'He cannot track me to this world. I will not let him.'

And so, Jack finally stepped into the town. What caught his eye though was that despite the rising sun, there was nopony outside. The eerie silence worried Jack, unable to see any pony in sight. His footsteps and the wind were the only sounds heard. The samurai wondered what was happening and wished that the citizens would reveal themselves. Something wasn’t right.

The samurai saw and heard windows and doors slam close with each pasing minute. Confused, Jack drew forth his blade and turned his eyes, hoping to find something that could clue him in on what was happening now.

"Hey there, stranger."

Hearing the voice, Jack turned around, seeing a group of ponies consisting of an earth pony, a unicorn, and a pegasus, wearing ascots that covered their faces. They wore hats and clothes that covered their entire bodies, with blades strapped to their sides.

“We ain't seen a folk like you here before. You should just run and hide like the other weak ponies in this here town. Name's Hold Over." the earth pony spoke.

"What have you done to make a town like this so fearful?"

The leader pony chuckled, "It's quite simple. We took it over. Gotta make money and a livin' somehow. Whoever misbehaves get themselves a beatin' and their stuff taken. It's just how things work around here, y'know?"

Jack shook his head, "No. No one should live in fear. Especially in fear of crooks like you."

"Aw. That's too bad. Because we don't care."

The samurai narrowed his eyes, "You should. How has this happened anyhow?"

"It was quite simple. We show up, show our might, hurt a few wimps, then we get the final say." the leader revealed, standing on his hindlegs as he boasted. "It's pretty fun. Nopony gets in our way and we get whatever we want whenever we want."

Jack groaned, "You have made a grave mistake doing that, then. Now, I will reclaim this town back to its former glory and time of freedom." he boasted, pointing his blade forward at the bandits, "You will all retreat and never come back."

"And how are ya going to do that, huh? With that letter opener in your grip?"

A frown appeared on Jack's face, "No. If I were to use it you may not survive." he sheathed the blade. "I shall have to best you without it. You may think you are powerful with your weapons, but it is how you use them that makes you a warrior."

"Heh. Some tough words fer a wimp,” the pony says with a smug, “Blade Bringer. Show 'em your moves."

The pegasus smirked, "With pleasure."

With a yell, the swordpony unsheathed his sword and held it in his hooves, raising it over his head. Jack stood still as the pony came closer to him. The pony slashed downward, but missed the human. Jack grabbed the pony's hooves and swiped them down, causing him to release the blade in his grip. The samurai grabbed the sword by the hilt and pinned it on the ground as he tossed the swordspony over his shoulder.

The remaining three ponies scowled. The unicorn came up next and began to shoot magic at Jack. The samurai gritted his teeth and held up the blade, deflecting the magic beams. Unfortunately, the sword wasn't built for that and shattered after taking a few shots, the pointed end snapping in half and falling to the floor. The man threw aside the broken hilt and rolled from the next shot.

Jack grunted, getting to a knee and seeing the pony's sweat pour from his face. He knew that he was getting worn out. And so, he stood up and went to grab the broken sword's handle. With another beam of magic passing him, Jack tossed the end so that it would bluntly hit the unicorn on the side of the head, knocking him out.

The samurai exhaled, seeing the handle bounce off the unicorn's cheek and onto the ground. The unicorn bandit fell on his stomach with a single grunt escaping him. Jack stood up, fists raised.

"Well well. Looks like the stranger has some fight in him. Let me show ya how to fight." Hold Over says.

Then, he used his mouth to grab his own sword, pulling it ouf of the sheath strapped to his side.

“Bring it on, samurai freak." he hissed in disgust, "This town is ours and there's nothin' you can do about it."

Jack scowled, drawing his sword at last. "I am giving you a choice. Leave now, or face the consequences."

Hold Over laughed, "As if you have the guts to end me."

"No, I do not. But I will make sure you leave one way or another. These ponies do not deserve what you are doing to them. Making them live in fear, to refuse to come outside. You say you harm them." Jack snarled.

The leader of the bandits smirked, "I did it to teach these ponies fear. To have them learn what I've gone through. I lived in a pretty terrible part of Equestria, beaten by family, friends, and the common stranger. Crime was rampant back in my youth. Nopony refused to do anything, and they’re heads were too far in the peaceful life they thought they were in. This was done to show that there are things in the world you cannot be happy about, to show what I've gone through. Maybe then, something could be done about it."

"This isn't the way to go about it! There’s a better way than this! There's still a chance!"

Hold Over shook his head, "No. It's too late. This is what needs to be done."

The samurai paused for a second as the wind passed before holding his sword in front of him, blocking Hold Over's own. "Very well. If it has come down to this, then so be it."

Jack swung his sword in the opposite direction of the bandit's own, deflecting each strike with a metal clang each time metal hit metal. Hold Over narrowed his eyes and lunged at Jack, the man turning his stomach to dodge the tip of the sword. Jack swung his arm downwards, hitting not only the sword, but causing the pony to buckle onto his stomach. The samurai swung once more to force the pony to release the blade.

In anger, Hold Over attempted to kick Jack, but he moved his body so that the attempt was missed. The samurai jumped a little, and lowered his sword as a way to not harm the pony by killing him. He grabbed the pony's forehoof and held it. Jack then grabbed the handle of the broken sword that lied next to him, and used it to knock out the bandit.

The blowing wind passed by the man as he stared at the unconscious bodies of the bandits. "...It is alright! You all may leave!"

At the sound of the voice, ponies from all over the town opened their doors and windows, smiles seen on their faces. Cheers were echoed as everypony came near the samurai. Thanks and calls of gratitude were had as Jack silently listened to everypony call for him, the stranger. Some even tied up the bandits so they could be put on trial for the crimes they committed.

"Thank you!"

"What are you?"

"Excuse me. You are all welcome, I did what I must... But I must be going to Ponyville. Where is the nearest train station?" Jack asked, getting everypony to stop talking.

"Down there." a friendly pony answered and pointed south of where Jack was standing.

The samurai nodded, "Thank you."

"But wait! Who are you?"

As the human walked away from the growing crowed, he turned his head around and answered, "They call me... Jack."

After the introduction, he moved away, heading for the nearby station as the ponies watched him leave.

VIII: Jack on a Train

Jack silently sat on a bench, awaiting the next train. He had arrived at the town station, seeing the ponies apprehend the bandits that once controlled them. He had to admit, it was strange to see a world that looked so peaceful turn against itself, but he knew that the righteous would succeed no matter what.

Jack took another sip of his bottle of water, seeing he had enough to last the trip. He was glad that he gained more supplies, such as food and more water. He didn't want them offered for free, but they insisted. It was then, the samurai realized that at some point he should figure out a way to gain currency in this world.

A smile appeared on the samurai's lips and he reached into his small bag, finding his trusty straw hat. The man placed it over his head, covered his eyes and leaned back on the bench, taking the moment to relax and calm his nerves. He closed his eyes, his other senses able to figure out when the locomotive was arriving.

"Hey."

Hearing the voice, Jack opened an eye and gazed to the side, seeing a gold yellow pegasus mare take a seat next to him. The mare crossed her legs and hunched herself on the wooden chair.

"I just wanted to say, thank you for coming. You may not be a pony... But I think you've earned our trust."

"...Thank you. I only did what was right." replied Jack, folding his hands over his lap.

"No, I mean it. To hear what happened to Hold Over... I had to admit, if he was telling the truth, then I feel bad despite how he lead a regime here,” the mare sighed, "Sometimes, I wish the world was as black and white as it appears. To know he did this just to teach us a lesson. He wasn’t doing the right thing, but I see where he was coming from."

Jack nodded and only said, "There are better ways to do right than harm those who do not deserve it. I come from a world where terror reigns all over. There is many good still remaining, but the threat of whom conquered it lingers across the planet and possibly my universe. I wish to avoid the same happening to this world."

"Do you think we should tell Princess Celestia or Princess Luna of what happened?" the mare asked.

"Do as you must. It would be a good decision to alert those in authority of what happened. Perhaps it can prevent the same from happening in another town. Do you know how these bandits came to power in this small town?" asked Jack.

The mare shook her head, "Honestly, not even I know. They just showed up one day with weapons, pummeled the mayor, and then claimed the town as their own. Anypony who dared to fight back was beaten by their superior skills. That is, until you arrived. They plundered us, beat us, ruled over us, and we couldn't do anything about it. Celestia knows we've tried before, but it always ended with somepony becoming paste outside."

The samurai glared ahead, listening intently to the pony's words, "I see... Then I am glad to have arrived before the matter would get any worse." he stated.

A loud whistle was heard, prompting Jack to open his eyes and lift his straw hat a little. Before the train arrived, he reached for his map and opened it, seeing that the direction it was heading was in fact for Ponyville. Content, Jack stood up and watched the locomotive slow down as it reached the station at last, and a loud noise revealed its stop.

"I wish you the best of luck in reforming the town." was all Jack said as he stood up.

Ponies stepped out of the now open doors. Some of them gave the samurai a confused look, having never seen anything quite like him before. After all, he only made his presence known to a two towns. He ignored the looks and decided to step onto the train.
****
The man took a seat next to a window and tipped his straw hat downwards, choosing to keep to himself close to the window for however long it was going to be. It took a bit before the train started to move, especially while the other seats on the train car began to fill up with ponies.

Now deep in thought, Jack looked back on what he discovered so far in this new world. He found the inhabitants to be friendly for the most part, a welcome change from worrying about a bounty placed on his head across the planet. Still, the man knew that back on his world, it was only a minor inconvenience considering his skill compared to the low-class hunters that would gang up on him at a bar or walking down a street.

As the train moved, Jack looked out the window and saw the passing trees and fields, being reminded of his many travels. He had trekked fields, scaled mountains, and explored the deepest caves, temples, and jungles. He wondered if he would have to repeat any of this while searching for the Chronos Compass, should it be real and not some fantasy.

Then again, the samurai has proven many legendary artifacts to be real back on his world. The many portals, objects, and people he had encountered with such power. He had faith that this would be the key in ending his journey.

But of course his mind trailed back to one single thing: Aku.

Jack was aware that by coming to this world, he would be leaving his own temporarily. It was all for the purpose of saving it, of course, but that came at a small cost. He saw the green trees, the grass, the flowers, and the animals peacefully wandering without a care in the world. He saw the ponies sitting around him. How peaceful this world was. All of this. If Aku were to come, his terror could end all of this in a matter of hours, possibly minutes.

But the samurai shoved those thoughts aside. A few days have passed and Aku was none the wiser in his disappearance yet. But that thought continued to linger in his mind every day.

A bump in his seat from the train knocked Jack out of his inner voice for a second and brought nim back to reality. It was then he realized how calm the ride was. It had been a while since he could sit somewhere without someone causing conflict. Jack smiled and looked out the window again, absorbing the scenery. But he had no idea of how long time had passed, so he faced a pony sitting in a leather chair across from him.

"Excuse me." Jack says.

His attention brought to the warrior, the stallion turned his head to face the strange looking person.

“How much longer until we arrive in Ponyville?” Jack asks.

"Three more stops. I'd give it an hour tops." the pony stated.

"Thank you." replied Jack with a small bow.

The rear end doors of the train car slammed open and closed in seconds.

“Stranger!" a voice bellowed out, getting the attention of Jack.

The voice also got the attention of the ponies sitting around him.

It was a pony with a sword strapped to his side. Jack recognized the pony as Blade Bringer, one of the bandits from Whinnyapolis and he stood up, ready for what was likely to come.

IX: Jack vs. the Swordspony

The moment the two enemies saw each other, an intense stare off came before one of the spoke to break the ice.

“How are you here?” Jack asked, “I apprehended you back at Whinnyapolis."

Blade Bringer chuckled, "Wasn't that hard. Woke up before I was tied up with my allies and fought my way here. Found you in here and waited until the time was right. I've come for payback for humiliating me."

Jack sighed, "Very well. Perhaps another lesson is in order. You are not wise in thinking you and the bandits would succeed."

The man reached for his sword as did the pony. They glared at one another again in silence. Ponies watches the silent duel in awe, waiting for one of them to do something.

And then the swords clashed.

Jack raised his blade, blocking the downward swing of the pony's own sword. A clanging sound heard as metal clashed.

“We mustn't fight here! The ponies could be hurt!" he yelled.

"You embarassed my crew, stranger. I don't care anymore. I was supposed to be the best swordspony in all of Equestria!" Blade Bringer boasted, taking a step forward, causing the samurai to move backwards a little.

Jack gritted his teeth, ending the collision of their swords and ducking down, hoping to trip the pony with a sweep kick. Despite the cramped train car he was in, he was able to land a kick that tripped the swordspony onto his back. The samurai watched as he instantly flipped back to his hooves, standing upright in a matter of seconds.

Blade Bringer swung horizontally, prompting Jack to swing in the opposite direction, blocking the attack with ease. Small sparks were seen from the metal blades, bringing a flicker of light for only a fraction of a second as they continued.

Rearing his hoof back, the stallion hoped to use his free hoof to punch the samurai. But Jack telegraphed the attack and held the hoof in his palm, blocking the punch. To counter, he struck his hand to the pony's elbow and shoved him aside, making him stumble backwards.

Blade Bringer smirked, "Guess I gotta stop holdin' back then."

He held his sword and pointed it at the samurai.

“You know, stranger. It's not everyday I use this much effort. Most would fall before they’re given the chance to fight back. Even when I took the town over, I didn't do this much." he admitted aloud.

Jack raised a brow, bringing his blade down for a moment.

"What do you mean? What of the gang you were with?" Jack asked, scowling.

"The gang I was with couldn't comprehend that fact. They held me back all this time. But you..." he raised his sword, using both of his hooves to somehow grip the handle. "You're a worthy opponent. Somepony of my caliber. Finally."

Jack turned around, seeing the ponies fear for themselves. Children holding tightly to their parents. Other ponies were either staying in their seats with fear, hiding under the benches, or keeping their heads down to make themselves invisible to the eye.

“All of you, get to cover. Underneath the seats, another car, anything. I do not wish for any of you to get hurt." he commanded loud enough for everypony to hear him.

The ponies around him did as he suggested.

While the human held off the swordspony, more ponies hid underneath their seats, while others retreated to a different car until the battle ended. This left the samurai to do as much as possible inside the car, but he realized something, using his sword to deflect another strike.

It was too small in here. He could only move forward and backwards with barely the ability to move in any other direction. Jack took a look at his surroundings, hoping to find a place with more space. He continued to block the swordspony's strikes in the meanwhile, swinging his blade in different directions.

The samurai grunted, slashing sideways, but the swordspony saw it coming and struck down, countering the strike with ease.

It was on the ceiling where Jack saw the exit hatch. As fast as he could, the samurai hopped on one of the leather seats, and pushed the door open as fast as he could, leaping out of the train car. Blade Bringer followed him, intending to finish the battle.

On top of the moving train car was where Jack remained still, the speed of the locomotive doing nothing to stop him. Blade Bringer managed to find him, his sword in his mouth as he climbed.

The two scowled at one another, knowing that this was going to be a bigger battle than they thought. They remained still, intending to strike when the time was right. They moved their limbs as they reached for their blades to hold down. Silence was passing among the two, the only sound being the moving train.

Then, they ran toward one another. Blade Bringer swung first, intending to hit Jack, but the human knew of the oncoming attack and swerved his body sideways, spinning his own blade around, the metal colliding once more with sound on each strike.

CLANG!

Jack flicked his arms upward, lamding a vertical slash, but Blade Bringer blocked it.

CLANG!

Blade Bringer raised his sword over his head, predicting the samurai's next move.

CLANG!

The samurai growled, holding his sword out over his face, avoiding a jab in that direction.

With one more swing, Blade Bringer brought his sword to the right, landing a good slash on the samurai's kimono, leaving a tear on its side.

“Oops. Looks like I ruined your little dress." he mocked.

Jack chose to say nothing, putting his sword back in its sheath for the moment, raising his fists. The swordspony thought nothing of the move and attacked anyway, leaving another rip in Jack's clothes as he dodged. The human moved his body to the left, driving his hand into the muzzle of the swordspony, dazing him for a second.

A snarl was heard from Blade Bringer, and he swung back in retaliation, Jack dodging in time. His face was emotionless, showing that he did not truly care for this fight, nor that he thought he wasn't going to make it. The samurai raised his arm, using his limb to shield himself from a punch from the angered pony.

Jack knew that he was getting Blade Bringer angry. And that meant he would get sloppy in his movements.

‘Perfect.’ Jack thought.

With one swift movement, Jack spun his entire body around, but Blade Bringer had managed to land a good strike, despite barely missing his flesh. Instead the top of his kimono was ripped off and torn apart, leaving only the bottom half and his chest exposed. He clenched his fist, now grabbing the flying remnant of his kimono and tying it around his waist, acting as a makeshift belt around the rest of his clothes.

Jack struck the pony's hoof as he threatened to slash his blade again, causing him to drop his blade, it flying off into the distance. Blade Bringer gritted his teeth at the human, now annoyed that his weapon was gone. Jack remained stoic as usual, and dodged each strike of the hoof he threatened to give Jack.

The samurai ended the fight by grabbing the pony by the hoof, and striking a chop precisely at the stallion's neck, knocking him unconscious. Now done with the fight, he held up the pony, allowing him to remain unconscious on the roof. Quickly, he tied him up with some rope. He hoisted his body over his shoulder, slowly climbing back down inside the car.

"It is safe now!” he called out.

The ponies still in the car moved their bodies out from under the seats, and saw Jack drop Blade Bringer's body down on the chair across from him. A few ponies by then quickly apprehended the unconscious Blade Bringer, holding him down until the authorities come to take him away at some point.

The ponies who ran to the other car came back, and saw what was happening.

Applause was heard all around the car, but the samurai tuned them out. At this point, it was a common trend, but he did not need to be acknowledged. He gave the ponies a quick smile of gratitude before looking out the window. It was there he saw a sign.

'Welcome to Ponyville.'

Jack grinned again, 'Finally. I have reached my destination.'

Now, he was getting closer than ever to achieving his goal.

X: Jack in Ponyville

The very moment the train had stopped; the moment that steam came out of its engine after making a halt; the time that the conductor announced its arrival to town; and the time the doors opened, Jack finally stepped out of the train. It had been a long, and surprisingly rough journey. But he made it.

He was now in Ponyville.

The samurai looked around, watching as the ponies moved back from him, unaware that he came in peace. As he stood in front of the door, ponies that were intending to arrive here got off from behind him without a care in the world. But that never stopped the ponies who hadn’t seen him before look at him with wary looks.

He tried to take one step with his foot, but the citizens gave gasps of fright or surprise by this action.

Deciding to assure them that he wasn’t here to cause trouble, he raised his hands and decided to speak to them in a calm tone.

“You need not worry, ponies,” he assured lightly, "I will not harm you in the slightest."

"How can we trust you?" he heard somepony ask.

As he stood there, a crowd was gathering around his still form.

Samurai Jack looked down at the crowd of equines.

“I only seek the assistance of your ruler, Princess Twilight. I have travelled a long way since my arrival to your homeland to gain her aid if necessary,” he explained as dropped his arms back to his sides, “Please, I am only asking you of her location. I do not intend to hurt any of you."

"Um, what are you?" a light, grayish olive earth pony mare asked.

The samurai gazed down, "A human from another world,” he paused as he saw a mint-green unicorn cheer to herself, “As I said, I only seek the assistance of Princess Twilight. I have heard she is the only one who can solve dilemma I am having."

"You seek Twilight Sparkle?" a beige unicorn mare asked.

Jack nodded, "Yes."

"Hold it!"

Hearing the voice, Jack watched as a rainbow blur neared him before halting, revealing a cyan mare with a rainbow mane. She landed softly on the ground and looked at him with a very concentrated but also curious look.

“Sorry if I startled ya. I saw a crowd forming as I flew in the sky. Had to get a look at ya. You look kinda... what's the word I'm looking for? Quiet. But still, I'm not just gonna be letting ‘anypony’ near Twilight." she declared.

"I'm sorry, but, who are you exactly?" Jack asked.

The pegasus gasped, "You never heard of me?”

The samurai silently nodded his head saying ‘no’. When he stopped nodding, Rainbow suddenly flapped in the air.

“I'm the fastest pony in Equestria! Also the newest Wonderbolt, and the greatest hero in the land...Rainbow Dash!” she introduced with a brag.

But Jack wasn’t fazed nor was he astonished. He still gave a look that said he never heard of her, much to Rainbow’s let-down.

“Huh. You'd think a newbie like yourself would’ve heard of me." she said, glaring at Jack for a moment.

"...Right. I am sorry for my intrusion, but as you heard, I've been travelling this land to reach this town. I was told that Princess Twilight would know of what I seek.” the samurai elaborated.

“Uh-huh, I know who you’re talking about. I’m one of her best friends,” Rainbow told him, “But I still don’t think I should let you see her.”

Jack kept looking at her for a moment. From what he could tell, she seems to have quite a strong loyalty for the princess, and would not want her to get harmed by something terrible.

‘That must be why she’s so hesitant to let me pass.’ he thought.

Then it hit him. There was only one way he could show her he wasn’t a threat.

"Very well. If you mistrust me..." he continued, raising his sheath from its strapped spot and dropping it, "I am defenseless. In there is a magic sword that will not hurt the innocent and heroic, but will kill the tyrannic. So even if I were to attack, it would be for naught."

Rainbow raised a brow at the man before turning her gaze to the dropped weapon, "Show me."

"What?" Jack asked in confusion. The ponies around them gasped at Rainbow's declaration.

The pegasus smirked, "I can take a bit of damage. If that thing hurts me, I'll know you're lying."

"You are being quite strange. I wish not to raise this sword on an good creature such as yourself.” the samurai added.

"Come on. I thought you had nothing to be afraid of. That sword really won't hurt the innocent, right,” Rainbow reminded the human, "Plus, I kinda want to see it in action."

Giving the pegasus a stoic stare, Jack kneeled down to pick up his weapon. All two of his hands grasped the weapon once they made contact.

“Very well. If this will earn your trust, then it seems I have no choice."

He used his thumb to pull the sword's hilt from the sheath, grabbing it with his opposite hand before pulling it out in its entirety. It sparked and made a kind of sound as it was held out in the open, the pegasus’s reflection shown on it along with a look of interest from her.

“Wooaah.” Rainbow said with amazement.

“Just this once. And no, you cannot use this weapon."

Hearing that, Rainbow once again felt a little let down.

"Aw, alright. Just show me if you're being honest, and maybe I’ll let you see Twi." Rainbow ordered.

Raising his blade, Jack closed his eyes, and lightly jabbed the sword forward, aiming it at Rainbow. The pegasus flinched upon feeling the cold metal on her fur and hearing the metallic clang. But then, she noticed...that she felt no injury. Not even a sting of pain.

Jack pulled the sword from her, and when she looked at where it landed...she found that no mark was seen on her either. She lowered her magenta eyes to where the tip of the sword was after hearing the gasps of the crowd.

“Wow. Guess you were right about that sword of yours."

Samurai Jack silently nodded ‘yes’, pulling his sword back, lightly scratching it on the top of its sheath before placing it back on.

“So, I guess you're on the side of good then. Sorry..." Rainbow apologized sheepishly, "Who are you, anyway?"

"I am called Jack. I have come here to fulfill a purpose that I have and seek something to help me." the samurai introduced.

“...And that is?" she asked as she floated above the ground again.

"The Chronos Compass. It is only told as a legend, so very little is known of it,” Samurai Jack explained. "But can you take me to see your friend? I was also told she has great knowledge."

The pegasus snickered, "She's a total egghead. She constantly reads books, and is always making a list to keep even the smallest things organized. So, sure...I'll take you to her, now that I know that cool sword of yours won't hurt her in the slightest. But if this Compass is told in legends, why come here to find it?"

Jack folded his arms, "In the world that I come from, what are simply told as legends are proven to be real. I have travelled far and faced many beings in my quest. I am sure this time would be no different."

"Can I help?" Rainbow asked. "I've been itching to go on a new adventure for a while. This Chronos Compass sounds awesome!"

Shaking his head, Jack answered, "No. I only wish to find the location of the compass pieces. After that, I shall travel on my own, like I have done times before."

"Aw..." sighed Rainbow. "Well, I'll keep my word and take you to her anyway, I guess."

The samurai bowed, "Thank you."

As the pegasus hovered, Jack followed behind her. "She lives in the giant crystal castle that’s on the edge of town. We'll be there in no time."

When he heard that, Jack looked up to see the large purple crystal structure above all of the houses he also saw before him. He felt admittedly annoyed that he didn't spot that castle when he first arrived.

“Oh."
****
A few minutes later...

Twilight Sparkle, a mare with a pale, light grayish fur coat was reading a novel about one of her favorite adventurers: Daring Do. It had been a slow and steady day for her, so she didn’t really think anything else could happen at the moment. But her eyes raised themselves up from the book upon hearing the sound of a loud knocking.

KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK!

Judging by how loud and quick each successive one was, she could tell who was trying to gain her attention. With a quiet sigh, the alicorn used her magic to place a bookmark at where she was reading and closed the novel, standing up from her spot on the chair. She assumed Starlight was busy and Spike was either doing something else. Or napping. She assumed the latter.

The alicorn wandered the hallways to her entrance door. After a small trek, she saw the two giant doors and stepped in front of them, using her magic to open them, being greeted by a familiar pegasus on the other side.

"Hey, Rainbow,” she greeted, “You could have just come in."

"Yeah, I know. But this is important. Plus, I didn't feel like exploring which room you were in this time.” Rainbow explained.

“Riiiight.” she responded, remembering the amount of mazes her castle has.

“So anyway, uh, somepony is kinda seeking your help." Rainbow elaborated.

Twilight furrowed a brow at her words, "Really? Who?"

Revealing himself, Jack raised a hand and bowed, surprising the alicorn mare, "Greetings, Princess Twilight. I was told of your knowledge and wish to--"

Jack couldn't finish as Twilight, frozen in surprise, fainted. The samurai scratched his head in confusion.

“Did I do something wrong?" he asked with some concern.

Waving a hoof in front of the princess' still open eyes, Rainbow muttered, "I... Uh, I got nothing. Probably something sciency or whatever from seeing someone like you. We... we should probably take her inside."

And so, Samurai Jack and Rainbow Dash picked Twilight up and carried her inside the castle.

XI: Jack's New Friends

Twilight's eyes slowly opened, finding herself back on her sofa. She raised a hoof to her head, feeling a slight bump from the fall she had.

“Oh wow..." she muttered, letting out a quiet sigh, "What happened?"

"I dunno." Rainbow shrugged, the alicorn turning her head to find the cyan pegasus sitting by her head, "I never took ya for the fainting type, Twi." she chuckled.

Turning her head again, Twilight got another look at the stranger.

"My apologies, princess,” he bowed his head to show his sincerest apologies to the mare, “I did not mean to startle you like that. I only wish for your assistance."

"I-I didn't think that people from the mirror world could appear in that form. This... This could be a breakthrough!" Twilight gasped, shaking her head, knocking herself out of her own muttering and thoughts, “S-Sorry. I was just surprised. Seeing you here... It means Lyra was right and that the Mirror dimension isn't the only place with bipedal furless creatures like you."

Jack raised a brow upon hearing the alicorn's words, "Pardon me. But I do not know of what you are talking about. I did not appear through a mirror or the like. I am a human from another universe. I only wish to seek your aid, Princess Twilight."

Rainbow nodded, "He's legit, Twi. I gave him a bit of the ol' Rainbow scare tactic.”

“Okaaay. That probably wasn’t the most necessary thing to do though, Rainbow,” Twilight said, “You could have just-“

“Aw c’mon, Twilight. I just had to test him before letting him see you. Besides, he has this really incredible sword.”

Seeing the direction that her hoof was pointing, she sees that the warrior had a sword inside of a sheath which was attached to a kind of belt to secure it.

“Don't worry, it won't even poke you,” Rainbow assures her, “He says that the reason he’s here is for something about a compass."

"Did somepony say compass!" yelled out a voice.

Turning around, Twilight and Rainbow saw Pinkie hop into the room, seemingly overhearing their conversation.

“I love treasure hunts!" she joyously says.

"Pinkie? What the hay are you doing here?" Rainbow wondered.

"Weeellll...first I wanted to visit Twilight, but then I saw a crowd around some stranger and I just had to welcome him!" Pinkie faced the samurai, who glanced to the other two, "And there he is!”

Pinkie then hopped over to Jack.

“Hi! I'm Pinkie Pie! Oh boy, you don't look like any pony, dragon, or changeling I've ever seen." she added, observing his body for a moment.

"It is nice to meet you, Mrs. Pie. I'm Jack.” Jack greeted with a bow.

Pinkie giggled when Jack called her that.

“No need to call me that, silly. Mrs. Pie is my mom, Cloudy Quartz.” she told him.

“Very well. I must admit, I've met very few people as enthusiastic as yourself." the samurai added, rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly.

Pinkie pointed to his waist, "Why is there table rag tied above your legs?" she wondered.

Jack looked down, "Oh, that is my kimono. The clothing I wear. It had gotten damaged during my travels. As of now, I have no way of repairing it back to its proper condition. This... really isn't the first time something like this has happened to me."

"I think I know somepony who can help with fixin' that." Rainbow revealed instantly, glancing at his white clothes.

Twilight decided to speak up, "Before you do that, you mentioned you came to me for something? What could I possibly help you with?” she questioned the samurai.

"I have heard tales of a relic called the Chronos Compass, and that you would have the supplement information on such a fabled object. I was hoping you would take the chance to aid me by deciphering any books or information to find the location of even just a single piece,” Jack explained, “If it is no trouble at all for you, of course.”

"Of course I can help. I've read about the compass before. Especially about how the pieces are scattered around Equestria. However, I’ll need to find the books for it first. It shouldn’t be hard since Starlight and Spike can help with that.” Twilight told him.

“Thank you. I would very much appreciate that.” Jack thanked.

“You’re welcome,” Twilight replied, “While I look, you can get your...kimono repaired, and by the time you come back, hopefully I'll have everything sorted out."

Rainbow nodded, "Cool. It's about time we took ya to Rarity's. She'll probably have a fashion fit or something about how you teared these fabrics or whatever." she chuckled.

"Can I come?" Pinkie wondered aloud.

"Uh...sure, Pinkie." Rainbow agreed awkwardly.
****
The trip to their next location was rather brief and easy. The samurai noticed that after the public display he and Rainbow had, his presence was easier to absorb within the equine-filled city. He hoped Twilight was able to find even just the location of one piece of the legendary Chronos Compass. If so, he would be able to figure out the rest from there, like he had done plenty of times.

Jack was also surprised to hear that his kimono could be repaired in this world and was offered so easily. Not to say, it wasn't easy before. He was given such kind hospitality before, and he would be forever grateful to those who did. But the fact this happened so soon, it rathered surprised him.

But now, Jack, Rainbow, and Pinkie arrived to their desired spot. Rainbow had called it the Carousel Boutique, and it certaintly lived up to its name. The cyan pegasus gave a light knock.

“Come in!" shouted a rather elegant voice in a sing-song tone.

The first to step inside were Rainbow and Pinkie. A white unicorn with a purple mane looked from her sewing machine and saw her friends come in, "Rainbow Dash! Pinkie Pie! It is quite a surprise seeing you two, here. To what do I owe the pleasure?" she greeted her friends.

At that moment, Samurai Jack stepped in. Rarity seemed unfazed, "Ah, yes. You must be the new fellow I heard about that Rainbow challenged earlier. Who are you?" she asked.

"Jack." the human replied, "How do you know of that? It just happened an hour ago."

"A customer came by earlier and described the scene." her eyes looked down to the kimono.

"My word!" Rarity gasped.

"...Is everything all right?" Jack asked in confusion.

Lighting up her horn, Jack found his kimono coming off him in a light blue glow. "No, everything is certainly not alright. This...robe is torn to near pieces. Luckily, it looks like I can still scavenge it back to its former glory in no time!" Rarity nearly screamed.

"Told ya!" Rainbow whispered to the samurai with a chuckle.

Rarity, with a determined scowl, got right to work, pulling out any white materials she could find and her sewing machine.

“Rarity is doing her magic!" Pinkie cheered.

Jack, Rainbow, and Pinkie sat down and waited, the pegasus getting impatient in mere minutes. Rarity's focused work took a while, but they heard an exclamation and stood up from their chairs. Rarity held what looked like a brand new kimono with her horn using magic.

“Ta-da! It looks brand new. I chose not to alter it at all." she assured.

Placing the white robe in his hands, Jack put it on with ease, feeling much more comfortable.

“Thank you. If there is any way I can repay you..." he started to say sincerely.

"Consider it on the house. All first customers get one. And, I did you a favor by fixing it. It looked terrible all ripped up. It would be a shame if it happened again."

Jack was about to say something about that, but he kept his mouth shut.

“Well, thank you, Miss Rarity. Where I'm from, generosity like this is so few and far." he bowed as a token of appreciation. "If you will excuse us, we must head back to Princess Twilight's castle."

"You met Twilight? May I come along? I was about to close shop for the day anyhow." Rarity inquired. "And Sweetie Belle is out playing with Scootaloo and Applebloom."

"Sure." agreed Rainbow.
****
When the four got back, they were a bit surprised by how much the room changed. Twilight and another unicorn were looking over pages and papers as a purple and green scaled dragon held another paper with a quilt pen for notes. Jack was the most taken aback by this.

“Um..." he muttered, getting the three's attention.

"Oh, Jack! You're back! And you brought Rarity." Twilight noticed, "We were just about finished here anyway."

"Is this the...human you mentioned Twilight?" the bright purple unicorn asked.

"Yes. Jack, meet my student, Starlight Glimmer. And my number one assistant and best friend, Spike."

As Twilight introduced them, the two waved in greeting.

Jack smiled and waved back, "It is a pleasure to meet you. So, you said you were almost done?"

"Done with what?" Rarity wondered, not knowing what was happening.

"Compass stuff. Legendary object." Rainbow elaborated briefly.

Twilight nodded, "The Chronos Compass. An artifact that will allow the wielder to control time itself once collected. We managed to decipher some of the ancient texts and books in which they were described. It appears a piece is within a temple just beyond the Everfree Forest." she revealed. "There is more within these writings, but it's better if I told you where to start so we can continue these findings later."

Nodding, Jack put a finger to his chin, "The Everfree Forest?"

"Yes, we even charted an estimated location on a map for you." Starlight added, levitating a map to the samurai's grip. After looking it over, he rolled it up.

“We shouldn't take too long in our travels anyhow." Twilight said.

"We?" repeated the human with a raised brow.

Twilight answered, "Yes. Fluttershy and Applejack should already be on their way. Once we're all together, then we'll all head out to the temple beyond the forest."

"What? You think we're gonna miss out on some epic adventure like this?" Rainbow wondered.

Silence was shared among pegasus and samurai.

Sighing, Jack put his arms to his side and lowered his head, "I am sorry. But this is something I must do on my own. I cannot have all of you risk yourselves for my endeavors."

"What?!" Pinkie gasped.

The cyan pegasus folded her hooves, "I'm not sitting this one out. And I don't think any one of us want to."

"Yeah. We can handle ourselves." Spike agreed.

Rarity gulped, "And who knows what else lies in that forest?"

Jack closed his eyes, "I assure you. This is something that I shall handle alone. I will reach the temple past the Everfree Forest and continue my way from there. I cannot thank all of you enough for aiding me in this, and it seems the other ponies were correct in suggesting you to seek my help with, Princess Twilight." he said humbly. "I will be forever grateful for that. But I must bid farewell and continue on."

"Just call me Twilight. I rather don't like the title being thrown around unless it is for a formal event or manner." the alicorn admitted. "But can you just wait please?"

Starlight continued her plea, "This could be something big for all of Equestria, Jack. To learn that such a powerful artifact exists? To prove it? What do you need that kind of power for anyway?"

"...To end my quest."

"Quest?" Spike repeated, "What quest?"

Samurai Jack faced the ponies with a determined scowl, "The same one that brought me here to this strange world. That brought me to you. To save my world from an evil that is ruling it. I cannot afford to have more innocents harmed in my battles. I will not ask of you to fight my battles with me, either. The last thing I want is for all of you to get hurt. Or worse...killed.” he said.

What he just said sunk in to everypony. Even Rainbow’s ears were perked high at how serious this must be and how serious Jack sounded.

“So, I will head out to find the first piece of the Chronos Compass myself." he turned his body around and walked to the hallway, "And do not follow me. Please."
****
It didn’t take long for Jack to leave the inside of the castle.

Once he was only a few feet away, he took a quick look back because of how helpful the princess and her friends had been to him. Then, he continued on.

Little did he know though, that his new friends were watching him from a window up top in Twilight’s bedroom.

Rainbow huffed, "Who does he think he is anyway? Benching us like that? We could've been on a Daring Do type adventure!"

"I agree. I was hoping to go on an epic quest." Spike sighed in slight disappointment, "Plus, I kinda wanted to use his sword."

Twilight exhaled, "That could've gone better. Luckily, we marked the location on a second map just in case. Once Fluttershy and Applejack arrive, we'll head out and search for him."

"Yeah! He can't go to this mysterious temple alone!" Pinkie said to the others. "We have to hurry!"

XII: Jack's New Quest

Jack looked ahead. He was in front of the Everfree Forest, ready to once again make his journey. His destiny once again being unknown. Despite the ponies' warnings earlier, this forest looked no different than any other forest he has wandered through, his world or otherwise.

He took a quick look back at Ponyville and the castle that stood above it all. After looking back for only a minute, he turns to face the Everfree Forest, and strolls forward inside of it. His intention clear, nothing was going to stop him now.
****
The samurai's gaze was kept forward with each step he took, his sandals rustling the grass and leaves that lie plainly underneath his feet.

He looked at the map. On it were red markings that led him to the temple. It seemed to be just beyond the forest. Luckily, it shouldn't take too long. But, he knew he was in what was likely dangerous territory, so he firmly gripped his hand to his sheath just in case something were to go awry. However, so far nothing happened.

'I do not know why the girls were so hesitant in having me walk through here.' he thought as he looked to the sky through the trees, 'It seems rather serene. Perhaps, like the first few stops I made, there is some hidden danger. But it shouldn't be too troublesome.'

Jack marched forward, keeping an eye on his surroundings just in case his theory was correct. The samurai's hand further tightened around his sword's hilt as he heard various noises. The trees continued to cover the sky as he got deeper in, making him unable to see the blue sky that was once above.

The human sighed, and he noticed that more rustling came from afar. He remained aware of his surroundings, and that feeling only continued with each passing second. He stepped over a log and climbed over it, landing on a pile of leaves in the process, making a loud noise. He flinched upon hearing the sound of the leaves rustle and crumble underneath his sandals.

'I should remain silent,’ the samurai thought, 'The last thing I wish to do is attract attention onto myself.'

Jack inhaled, hearing more leaves rustling. But as he stood still, he heard the soft sounds of someone walking from behind him. He had a suspicious feeling that now he was no longer alone out here.

‘Someone is here with me.' he realized.

Ready for anything, his hand once more tightened around the hilt of his sword as the noise got louder. At last, he drew his blade, pointing it at a zebra, who remained unfazed upon his action. The samurai gave the stranger a confused glance as he lowered his weapon upon realizing she was defenseless.

"I apologize. I do not intend to harm you." Jack apologized with a small bow.

The zebra smiled, folding her hooves and bowed in response. "I am sorry for startling you. But upon hearing the sounds, I realized that you are new." she explained. "I came here to take a peek, for a name is all I seek."

Jack lowered his blade and placed it in his sheathe, seeing how sincere the zebra was. "They call me Jack. And you are?"

"Zecora is my name, Jack. Do you wish to come to my hut for a snack?" Zecora offered.

Jack waved a hand, "That is very kind of you, Zecora. But, I do not need any refreshments. I am merely on my way to retrieve the first piece of a legendary artifact. It should be just beyond this forest. Do you know if a temple truly lies beyond here?"

Zecora nodded, "The legends of the Chronos Compass are true and sound. But it would be difficult alone to have them found."

"What do you mean?" the samurai asked with a raised brow.

The zebra continued, "In Ponyville are eight friends. Together, they can ensure you do not meet your end."

"I may know of who you speak of. Princess Twilight and her friends?" at Zecora's nod, the samurai spoke. "I have my reasons, but I do not wish for them to get involved. There is more at stake here, and I wish to leave little impact."

With a sigh, Zecora lowered her gaze, "If you insist, warrior. The temple lies beyond the forest's barrier. A simple walk is all it will take. For trials lie in the temple's wake."

Jack bowed once more and turned his back, "Thank you, Zecora. I shall find a way to repay you." and with that Jack ran off, continuing his quest to reach the temple.

As the samurai disappeared, Zecora was shaking her head, wondering why someone like him would dare face the challenges of the temple on his own.

‘In time, I may find an answer,’ she thought, ‘But for now, I am only a guesser.’
****
The samurai ran through the Everfree Forest. He hopped over logs, ducked under branches, and even had to cut apart a few vines. As he did this, he thought back to him leaving Twilight's castle, and why he did so.

‘I have always wandered the world alone,’ he remembered, ‘I know I can take care of myself, but yet, the girls and their dragon friend would have made great company.’

But as he thought about it, he knew was running out of options, with Aku constantly getting in his way each time. Remembering that, he recalled why he pushed the ponies away.

'Aku would merely make them targets in the event he should find I am here. I cannot have him destroy this world like he has done to mine. To know there is a place free of his wrath... I will never forgive myself if I ruin that,' Jack closed his eyes at the thought, choosing to ignore all doubts for now.

A burst of sunlight shined down on the samurai’s face, blinding him a little. It didn’t take long for his eyes to once again adjust to sunlight. When he was able to see, he found that he had reached the end of the forest. He also found something that would lead to exactly what he was looking for.

Out in a lush meadow away from the trees, he saw a large temple. It looked like one he would see back on his world, and even similar to the one where he got the crystal that sent him to Equestria. The samurai looked at his map and smiled upon realizing he was at the temple where the first part of the Chronos Compass was contained. He was here.
****
But he was not the only one in the forest looking for a temple and compass piece...

"You said you saw him, Zecora?" asked Twilight.

It was his new friends from Ponyville. They had followed Jack into the Everfree Forest, worried that he would be in danger should the temple be as dangerous as they predicted.

Twilight, Rainbow, Spike, Pinkie, Rarity, and Starlight, with the addition of Fluttershy and Applejack (whom the others filled in on the matter), went to the first zebra they could trust: Zecora. They were hoping she saw him pass.

"He has passed here," the zebra answered, and pointed a hoof in the direction she saw him go, "By now for him, the temple should be near."

Applejack put a hoof to her chin, "This Jack guy's gotta be nuts ta think he could do somethin' this ridiculous."

"He seemed really hesitant in letting us go with him, too." Starlight recalled.

Pinkie shrugged, "Maybe he's hiding something about his past. He did say that he was on a quest and was trying to defeat a bad guy."

"Yeah, things I don't wanna miss out on,” Rainbow added. "We gotta see this temple and compass for ourselves! No way I'm letting some guy wearing pajamas take all the credit!"

"I'm more concerned about the fact that the pieces of the Chronos Compass lie past harsh trials. In the book we've read, the first was said to be a trial of reflection. We need to make sure he's fine." Twilight reminded the pegasus.

Fluttershy gulped, "A-Are you sure this is a good idea? I mean... Are the pieces really worth the risk?"

"According to Jack, yeah." Rainbow answered. "Not sure why, but he sounds like he really needs these pieces for something. Can't really say for what though."

"Well, if it's called the Chronos Compass, then obviously it's fer time travel." Applejack replied. "Sounds like such a weird thing. He says he’s from another world, yet he comes only to find a way to time travel."

Spike scratched his head, "It's gotta be important though. Least we won't have to worry about most of the trials. That sword looks like it could do a whole lot. Man, I wanna see it in action."

Starlight shook her head, "We're not gonna get answers just standing here, though. Where did you say the temple was at, Zecora?" she wondered,

"Past the forest's end. A helping hoof for Jack you may lend." Zecora rhymed. "Best of luck my friends."

"Thanks, Zecora!" Pinkie cheered.

Upon hearing that, the girls set out to follow the samurai, hoping they weren't too late in whatever he was doing.

Author's Note

Wow. Writing Zecora is a little challenging.

XIV: Jack vs Mad Jack

"What are you doing here? I told you all to stay behind!" Jack scolded.

He tried to focus his attention on both the ponies and fighting Mad Jack at the same time, his sword held over his head as his dark counterpart tried to bring his own blade down upon him.

Rainbow yelled back, "We're not just gonna let you hog all the glory, Jack!"

Twilight glared at the pegasus, "What Rainbow means is that this is our mission as well. You don't have to worry about us at all. We promise,” she assured the samurai, “You're in our world. It's only fair that we get to help you."

"But who is that you're fighting?" Starlight asked.

Rarity pursed her lips, "He looks quite like you."

Jack swung his blade horizontally, slightly tearing Mad Jack's kimono as he backed away.

“He is called Mad Jack, my dark counterpart. The magic of this temple has somehow brought him back. But I will finish him again like I have done before." he told them.

Mad Jack grinned deviously, "Fool! It will take a lot more to best me this time! It was a mistake for these equines to show themselves." he raised his sword and jabbed forward, intending to stab the good-hearted samurai, who moved to the side, his kimono barely getting torn in the process.

The dark samurai charged forward, intending to harm the ponies. As he tried to slash the Equestrians, Twilight erected a barrier in front of her and her friends, shielding them from Mad Jack's sword.

"What?" he asked aloud.

While he was distracted, Jack gave his doppelganger a right hook, knocking him back slightly.

“You shall not harm them." he commanded, putting his foot down.

"You cannot protect them from yourself, samurai." Mad Jack mocked, putting his hands behind his back.

Applejack raised a brow at the dark samurai's comments, "What is he talkin' about?"

Jack remained silent, choosing to continue his battle against his inner demons.

“Yes, Jack. Reveal everything to them. Surely keeping things to yourself will surely protect them." Mad Jack declared in a condescending tone to his counterpart.

As he said that, Mad Jack was dodging each punch and kick that Good Jack was dishing out with ease.

Rainbow growled and unfurled her wings, "Alright, Jack. Out with it, already! What's the deal here?"

The good samurai swung his sword vertically near Mad Jack, his red eyes narrowing to time him in dodging the attack, and so he did once Jack brought his blade down.

“I... I cannot say. I warned you all to stay behind. This is too dangerous for your world to get involved in." he pleaded once more, dodging the subject.

Getting tired of his counterpart's stubborness, Mad Jack decided to once more tried to harm the ponies.

“A genius plan. I guess we have to do things the hard way then!" he declared.

He ran forward and intended to attack Fluttershy, but Starlight stood forward and shot a beam of magic on him, causing him fall on his back painfully. The dark samurai held his chest, seeing some smoke emit from his kimono.

"You got lucky, pony!" he snarled, performing a handstand to flip back onto his feet.

Rainbow hissed as she lunged forward upon Mad Jack. But the dark samurai, using his skills, landed a good chop upon the cyan pegasus, causing her to fall.

"No!" yelled Jack.

Rainbow got up a moment later and drove a forehoof directly to Mad Jack's cheek, causing him to turn his head. The bruise on his face healed instantly, surprising Rainbow Dash as she circled around.

"What?" gasped Rainbow.

Fluttershy squeaked in surprise upon witnessing his healing.

Mad Jack smirked, "I am a being of magic, idiotic pegasus. Only Good Jack can slay me. But doubt remains within him. Only he could remove me, and he is too much of a moron to figure that out!" he cackled.

He tried to use his blade to slice the pegasus, but Rainbow's speed allowed her to dodge each swipe and slash as fast she could, barely missing by a single strand of hair on her mane.

"Again! What is he talking about?" Spike grunted, using his fire breath to surprise Mad Jack, who reeled back to avoid the green flames. This allowed Applejack a moment to strike a hoof upon the dark samurai's torso, making him stagger slightly.

Jack's fist twitched, gripping his sword as hard as he could.

“I will say once more. It is for the better that you do not know." he told them.

He charged forward and attemped to strike Mad Jack down again, but the evil counterpart raised his blade as an all too familiar sound echoed across the large arena. Again, white sparks flashed for only a second as metal collided with metal from the attack.

CLANG!

"Come on, Jack! You have to reveal it!" Pinkie pleaded. "What's so bad about this!?"

Jack lowered his weapon as did Mad Jack. The dark samurai turned his gaze to the side for only a moment. But in that moment, he caught Jack off guard by shoving him away, and he chased after the ponies again. Twilight and Rarity used a telekinesis spell to levitate some loose rocks to hold him back. The pebbles and debris were simply knocked away by Mad Jack as he stepped forward.

"A pitiful attempt, equines! Such a shame it had to be this way!"

"I cannot reveal it! The knowledge I have could put you all in grave danger,”Jack warned, elbowing Mad Jack before he could reach the Equestrians, “It is for the better if you forgot I was ever here and leave me to handle this matter alone! You have done more than enough by leading me here!"

Applejack growled, "Ya think this is our first rodeo, Jack? We've dealt with things as bad as this," she revealed, kicking Mad Jack with both of her hindlegs, driving the dark samurai back a little bit while Rainbow punched the evil counterpart of the samurai, "Whatever it is Ah'm sure we can handle it."

"You do not understand, he is far too powerful! He has enslaved my world already!" Jack begged, using his sword to shield Applejack and Rainbow from Mad Jack's own.

“He?” Applejack asked with a raised eyebrow.

The dark samurai rolled his eyes, "Typical good guy act, Jack! Spill the beans already! Wait... In fact, don't! I can finally corrupt you once and for all!"

Jack lowered his body and performed a sweep kick, tripping Mad Jack as he fell on his bottom.

Jack held his blade outward, "Enough of your needless insults. You are nothing like me. I will vanquish you like I have done the last time."

With a smirk and a swipe of his blade, Jack was caught off guard, and his sword was thrown aside, falling onto the ground with a small thud. His eyes widened, and he was ready to reach for his sword. But Mad Jack cut through his kimono and created some red scratches on his body, causing him to grunt in pain, holding the spots.

“Never let your guard down, you idiot!"

Frightened at what was happening and concerned for his well-being, Fluttershy immediately ran over to Jack to see if he was okay.

"Oh no!" Fluttershy gasped, "Are you alright?"

Jack sighed, "I am well, miss. Thank you. Please... Move back before you are injured." he pleaded.

"Oh no you don't!"

Looking up, Jack and Fluttershy saw Mad Jack in midair, sword raised over his head. The meek pegasus hid behind the good samurai, and he had no problem shielding her from him. He raised both of his fists, intending to do whatever it took. But the sound of a scratchy voice got his attention.

"Yo, Jack!"

At the mention of his name, the human turned his head.

Jack saw Rainbow hold his sword and she flicked her hoof, throwing it at him.

“Catch!" she ordered.

Samurai Jack raised his arm and managed to catch his blade as Mad Jack came to his descent, blocking his vertical slice.

CLANG!

The two samurai gritted their teeth as they dueled.

“As long as you keep the truth from them, you cannot be truly rid of me yet." Mad Jack said with a confident smirk.

Twilight held her hooves to her head, "What are you hiding from us, Jack? Whatever it is, we can handle it! We’re your friends!”

Closing his eyes, Jack lowered his weapon as did his doppelganger. He saw no other option. He finally knew that he must tell his Equestrian friends.

“Very well. If it is necessary to defeat you again, then so be it." he exhaled sharply.

"My friends. I come from not only a different world, but a different time period.”

“A different time period?” Fluttershy asked as she cocked her head.

“Yes. Long ago, a dark evil, known as Aku, took over my homeland, and captured my father in the process. I was sent to destroy him with my sword, but before I could finish him, he sent me through a portal into the future, where he rules the planet with an iron fist." Jack started to explain.

He attacked Mad Jack as much as he could, tearing apart more of his kimono and scratching his body.

The samurai growled, "He has an unknown amount of power that only my sword can defeat. We have been fighting for what feels like years. Everytime I get closer to reaching my goal, he is usually the one who gets in my way. And I cannot leave others to suffer his wrath. His reign holds throughout the universe, and I left it."

The ponies and dragon gasped as Samurai Jack finished his tale, "I have mostly wandered alone, as Aku was able to track me at any opportunity, and I fear that anyone close to me will too become a target. I cannot have Aku find out I'm here, become aware of you, and plunge this world into darkness like he has done to mine."

"I have admittedly come here to find a way to get back to my past, and intend to use the Chronos Compass to do so. But by coming here, I have put your world in the crossfire of my battle. I am sorry." he hung his head in shame, feeling selfish for what he has done.

Mad Jack cackled and decked Jack in the face, forcing him down, "I see you have accepted it. Now, die!"

"Wait!" Twilight pleaded, using a spell to push the dark samurai away from his doppelganger, "Jack... You cannot handle this alone. Whatever happens, we'll handle it together. Aku will not harm our world so long as we're here. Plus, once we find the compass, you can just stop him right? Don't doubt yourself for thinking whatever happens is your fault. You're only looking to save your world, I don't think any of us are upset about that."

"Nope!" Pinkie agreed.

"And we are finding the compass!" Rainbow assured with a determined chant, “And if Aku shows up, I'll be doing a Sonic Rainboom to blow him up!"

"This time you have us to depend on!" Spike announced.

"They're right. You're only doing what is right. But we'll be here to help you, Jack. Just trust us." Starlight concluded.

Jack knelt and panted, raising his head, "You...you are right. I-I cannot hold this burden by myself anymore if I am to be here. No more shall the clouds of doubt overtake me. This world will not suffer the wrath of Aku. Not as long as you're able to stand by me." he announced with determination and a grin.

After declaring this, Mad Jack's body began to glow yellow. He looked upon himself in shock, "What?! No! No! I cannot be hidden away again! Someday, goodie two sandals! Someday, I will force you to lose yourself! For I--" he never finished, as an explosion of light overtook the room, causing the heroes to shield their eyes until it faded.

Once the light dimmed down, Jack looked upon where Mad Jack once was, seeing a glowing yellow needle lying on the floor. Curious, the human picked it up as Pinkie chanted in a sing-song tone, "Dun dun duuuuun!"

"At last, I am a step closer to ending my quest." whispered the samurai.

"Is that...a piece of the Chronos Compass?" Starlight asked.

Right away, everypony and dragon came to take a closer look at the piece. Pinkie Pie even got out her magnifying glass again to really get a look.

“So, the legends are true after all then. That's good news." Starlight speaks up.

Jack smiled, "Indeed it is. I must thank you all for not giving up on me, even if I was foolish to refuse your aid. You have shown me that companionship is necessary now if I am to find the rest of the pieces in Equestria."

Twilight nodded, "You're welcome, Jack. If everything you said is true, then it looks like you'll need all the help you can get in stopping Aku." she replied.

"Yeah, that Aku guy won't know what hit him!" Rainbow said, smacking her hooves together.

Jack by then turned toward Fluttershy and Applejack, realizing that he didn’t get to know their names yet.

“I do not think I got to know the names of you two yet.” he told them.

“Oh, that’s right!” Fluttershy realized, “It’s really great to meet you Jack. My name’s Fluttershy.”

“And Ah’m Applejack.” Applejack greeted.

Now knowing the names of the two new ponies of the group, and looking upon them and the rest of his new friends, Jack faced the exit.

"How about we take our leave and discuss finding the next piece?" he suggested, leading the others outside.

Jack now had companions in this world. He thought back to the Scotsman as well, with him being the only good friend he made in the future. If he could befriend him and trust him in battle after how they met, he was sure he could trust the Equestrians in helping him in times of hardship.

The samurai thought back to his old friend, and wondered how he would fare in this world. A smile was plastered on his face upon the thought and he shook his head.

"What is it, Jack?" Spike asked, seeing the human's expressions.

"Nothing. Just thinking." he shrugged off.

The group looked at him for a moment, as they couldn’t help but feel curious about what he must have been thinking. But, they decided to not get too nosy in the matter.

Once everyone exited the temple, they headed back to the forest, ready to take on the rest of the search for the Chronos Compass.

XV: Spirit of Chaos

Jack hummed while deep in thought, blankly staring at the needle on the crystal table. The Equestrians took a peek at it as well, wondering what was next as well.

“It appears that we have to keep searching for the next location. Perhaps the Chronos Compass works differently than the Threads of Time."

"You know, Jack. If you wanted to time travel, I think Twilight kept Starswirl the Bearded's scrolls on a spell that I used once." Starlight muttered to the samurai, who grew interested.

“Perhaps we can use it to send you back and you can use that crystal to go back to your world?" she suggested with a shrug.

The samurai shook his head, "I am sorry. But I was told that the crystal can only send me back to the moment I left. It is the only setback I found upon it. There must be a way to track down the next piece of the compass without digging everywhere through the novels and scrolls you own. Every minute we waste, Aku could come closer to discovering my disappearance."

Fluttershy slowly raised a hoof, "I...I may know somepony who can help. I think..." she muttered, turning her head away from Jack. "He could use his magic to help maybe."

"Oh no..." Twilight groaned. "That's another headache."

Jack raised a brow, "Who is she talking about?"

Suddenly, as Samurai Jack turned around, he suddenly saw something lying on the table, holding the compass needle in his talon. It was a grey creature with fused parts of different animals for limbs and horns. The samurai held out his blade on instinct.

"Who are you, strange being?" he asked.

He didn't see Twilight and Spike plant their hoof and hand on their faces upon seeing the figure in question.

The figure sat up, "Easy, Jackie. I am a mutual friend." he assured, raising his claws defensively.

Lowering his weapon, the samurai replied, "How do you know of me?"

"Discord? What are you doing here?" Fluttershy asked.

Discord smiled and put a halo over his head, "I was told of this oddly-dressed person in white pajamas and I just wanted to see this man for myself.”

Discord then started to levitate himself into the air. Especially to where he was above the heads of everyone else. He came closer to Jack, and turned himself upside down.

“So, you must be the one called Jack, eh? Pleasure is all yours, my name is Discord, spirit of chaos and disharmony and all that fun junk." he greeted, handing Jack a business card.

Samurai Jack took the card, "Um... It is nice to meet you, Discord. May I ask why you are here all of a sudden?"

Discord hovered in his spot, lying down, "Oh, of course. See, I was on my way to see my dear friend, Fluttershy, but had seen you lot coming back from somewhere. To my surprise, you have retrieved a piece of the Chronos Compass, and it seems Flutters was just about to ask for my help." he explained.

"You are his friend?" the human asked.

The meek pegasus nodded in response.

“Very well, Discord. You said you are the spirit of disharmony, perhaps you are well versed in magic. I am on a mission to go back to the past. Perhaps you can aid me in returning to my proper time and end my mission."

Discord shook his head and held a cup of water, which he crushed and turned to jelly once he was done drinking it, "No can do, Jackie boy. Even if I were to combine my trans-dimensional spell with that ancient time-travel, the effects of Chaos magic and standard unicorn magic are too risky to handle. For all I know, it may not send you back to your proper time."

The samurai closed his eyes, "I see..."

Rainbow looked up, "So, what is it that you want to do, Discord? Got anything to add about all this?"

Raising a talon, Discord replied, "Why, yes, Rainbow. For you see, while I may not be able to send Jackie here to his time, I am able to help track the rest of the Chronos Compass. In fact, in my travels, I managed to find a temple conveniently lying around."

Snapping his fingers, the draconequess handed the girls, dragon, and samurai a pamphlet, a photo album of everywhere he went.

“That's not actually useful, I just wanted to show you all my vacation album."

"...Okay?" Spike responded awkwardly, looking at a photo of Discord yodeling on top of a mountain in the middle of a blizzard. He wondered how he got the photo in the first place.

"It's nice." Fluttershy commented, admiring the album.

Jack's gaze was raised to face the draconequess, "Where did you find this temple anyway?"

"On the way to the Crystal Empire,” Discord revealed, summoning a dusty map which he wiped off with a single finger. "Here is where I marked it down."

He handed Jack the map. The girls looked over the human's shoulder, seeing the giant marked 'X' near the edge of it, seeing it in a white-filled region of the map.

"What?!" Pinkie yelled, "It's in the snow!"

The samurai's eyes narrowed, "Very well, Discord. Any other piece of information you wish to add?"

"Yeah, you're actually on a roll here." Rainbow admitted while folding her hooves in surprise.

"Why yes. You see, I saw this black and red horn hopping around, and it was somehow able to talk. It mentioned something about summoning an army of dark monsters or some junk. Could barely hear it through the snow." added the spirit of chaos, picking his ear, causing a huge pile of snow to fall on the floor, grossing out Rarity and Twilight.

“Oops, sorry." he said with a small grin and with a snap of his fingers, he warped the snow away.

"...Are you sure you're not a creation of Aku?" asked Jack, seeing just how strange this creature is. "You certainly are as eccentric as him." he added.

"Gesundheit." replied Discord, summoning a box of tissues, which the samurai awkwardly dropped.

"No, I am an all-natural spirit of chaos, as pure as they come,” he paused, holding a birth certificate somehow. "I do not know of this Achoo like you mentioned. But he sounds friendly."

"Wait--" Twilight cut off the two, "You said you saw a black and red horn near the Crystal Empire? That sounds familiar. But he shouldn't have been able to re transform himself."

Spike nodded in agreement, "Yeah, he should've became toast when we used the Crystal Heart! Argh! Why didn't you do anything, Discord?" he grunted in annoyance.

"I am sorry, but I cannot discern myself. For all I know, it could've been a good horn!" defended the draconequss.

"What kinda good pony would mention summonin' an army of darkness?" Applejack questioned.

Discord shrugged, "I'm not sure anymore now that you say it like that." he muttered.

Fluttershy sighed, "Don't get upset, Discord. But please... Please bring this stuff up... I-It could be dangerous f-for all we know. For me?"

"Oh, alright. Only for you, Fluttershy." Discord relented.

Jack nodded upon witnessing the conversation the two shared, "You are a friendly spirit of chaos. Possibly the kindest deity I have met so far in my travels." he admitted aloud. "I only wish Aku was this easy to bargain with."

A smirk was seen on the draconequess' face, "Well, I'm sure he doesn't have many friends then,” he snapped his fingers, getting a kimono like Jack, "Honestly, we should team up at some point. You survived one of the temples, it's only fair I get to lend a claw at some point... Wow, these are actually pretty comfy."

Waving a hand, Jack replied with a sheepish smile, "Perhaps some other time."

"Sorry, Discord, but I really think we should head to the Crystal Empire to warn Cadance and Shining Armor of Sombra coming." Twilight said in a hurry, packing a small bag and wrapping it around her barrel with Spike standing next to her.

Discord sighed, "Oh, alright. Do head to the temple though while you're there. I'll be housesitting though."

Twilight rolled her eyes, "Fine."

Rainbow looked to her friend, "Uh, Twi? That doesn't sound very smart." she revealed.

Discord shoved the ponies, samurai and dragon out of the door. "It will be fine. I will definitely not throw a house party." he admitted, crossing his fingers behind his back.

"Hurry before you miss the next train!" he ordered them.

"Oh boy..." Starlight muttered.

Jack was about to follow the equines, but Discord tapped his shoulders, causing him to halt, "Yes?"

"There is one teeny little detail I missed." the creature replied, smiling and pinching his fingers together, "See, I sensed an odd form of magic recently, but I noticed it was the same as that crystal in your bag. Perhaps you should take a look," he suggested. "I'll show you where I found it as a sign of trust."

The samurai heard his words. If that was true, then that meant something came from his world.

Jack looked to the ponies, “Girls!"

He managed to see them turn around upon hearing his voice, "Discord and I must attend to something. Head to the Crystal Empire, for I will meet you there once we're done."

"We can come with you!" Twilight offered.

"I am sorry, but you must get them to know of the threat that is coming, and you need to be there in case they attack!" Jack shouted back from his spot.

"I will join you once we are finished. Plus Discord will aid me for the time being." Jack told them once more.

"...Alright. But please don't take too long." Twilight said, gesturing for her and her friends to wander on.

The human looked to the draconequess as he said, "Show me where you have sensed this magic."
****
Samurai Jack and Discord teleported to the outskirts of another forest, seeing the huge pile of trees that awaited them.

“Here we are, Whitetail Woods, Jackie. A lot more friendly looking than the Everfree Forest, and even better for photo-ops. I last sensed that magical presence here. You worried?"

With his sword in his hands, Jack scowled, "No. I pray it is not a threat to this world. But it seems we will team up after all like you wanted."

"Yes!" Discord cheered with a fist pump, "A warrior and a chaotic deity, we are the perfect team!"

The two were about to head into the forest. But there was a strange loud noise. A sound that prompted Jack to lower his weapon, and leaving Discord somewhat confused. Although he wanted to hide it, a thin smile crept onto the samurai's face, as the apparent sound got louder. At first he thought it was his imagination.

Discord wiped his ears, thinking he was hearing it as well. To clear his ears a little, he took out his ear drums, gave them a slight wipe with his claw, and then put them back in his ears to hear better. Then took out a gi in case he needed it.

For Jack, the music was refreshing, as it was a sound he first hated. But now it was a symbol of what was to come and he somewhat likes it as time went on. It got louder each passing second, the sound of a familiar medley being heard now.

For in the forest was the sound of bagpipes.

XVI: Jack and the Scotsman Reunite

Jack lowered his weapon upon hearing the bagpipes echo in the forest. Discord raised a brow at the samurai's actions.

“Um, Jack. Should we not fight the source of this noise?" he asked, "You act as though bagpipes are normal, and I usually do stuff like this!"

"No. Wait." Jack suggested with a wave of his hand, "I recognize that tune."

"You do? Didn't see that coming." muttered the draconequess.

A shadow appeared in front of the samurai and spirit of chaos. Jack's smile grew into a smirk, recognizing the burly shape and the bagpipes blaring behind it. Discord wondered who it was, and looked back at Jack, who seemed to be at ease.

Seeing Jack’s behavior, and believing it meant there was no danger, he removed gi with a simply yank, throwing it aside and turning it into a small cape around his back.

At last, the figure revealed itself. He was a burly man wearing a white shirt with a plaid kilt. His mustache and hair was red, with his hair strapped in a ponytail with none on top. He wielded a sword as big as Jack's own on his back and he had a minigun for a leg. The man stopped playing his bagpipes, opening his eyes.

"Ha! Well, the last person I expected was you, laddie!" the man laughed with a grin. "What are the odds of me finding ya in quite a place, am I right?"

Nodding, Jack allowed his friend to speak.

"It appears ye have grown tired of Aku's stupidity, eh? Well, I don't blame ya! So how is my favorite pajama-wearing pal?" he patted the samurai on the back in a friendly manner.

"I am doing well old friend. What brings you to this world?" Samurai Jack wondered.

The Scotsman laughed again, "Aye. It be quite a tale. Ya see, my lovely wife got upset at me for leavin' again. Wanted to find her a gift to match 'er beauty as an apology for me mistake! Found a nice crystal and accidentally put meself in this strange land as a result! Surprised to see you here as well, though!" he gazed upon the draconequss, who was listening to the Scotsman speak.

"And who be this mismatched, animal confusin', freak of nature be, laddie?" the man asked.

Discord fumed at those words, but ducked when Scotsman pointed his sword at him.

“Seems to be quite a strange lookin' fellow." he chuckled.

"Watch where you swing that thing!" Discord scolded. "And I'm not a freak of nature."

"He is Discord, a Spirit of Chaos and Disharmony. I still wonder how the natives of this world befriended a creature such as yourself." Jack wondered aloud.

Discord raised a finger, "It's quite simple. Chaos is quite boring when nopony else likes it and you have no friends. Fluttershy taught me that and treated me like an equal." he smiled softly.

"I see." Jack replied.

Scotsman laughed, "What kinda name is Fluttershy? Sounds like the name of a pansy!"

Discord rolled his arm up like a sleeve, "What?!" he fumed again.

The samurai narrowed his eyes at his unknown insult.

“Fluttershy is a good friend of mine as well, Scotsman. Please don't upset Discord." he advised. "He is quite powerful."

Scotman's eyes widened, "Well, in that case I take back what I said. Any friend of ya is a friend'a mine! So, what brings ya here, Jackie? Tryin' to stop Aku once again? That big baby will have'ta stop at some point!" he said.

Jack closed his eyes, "I am still seeking a way to my time. I ended up in a temple and found the same crystal as you it seems. It seems there is a magical connection to this dimension, ours, and the artifact we used to find ourselves here. Where did you end up?"

"I be in that forest for a bit before walkin' here,” Scotsman pointed out, "Decided to play me bagpipes as I wandered around, hopin' to find somethin' fer me lovely wife before I return. She be a beautful daisy and needs a gift as equal as her sweet personality." he muttered.

Discord whispered, "This guy's married?"

Jack muttered, "Yes. Surprised me as well."

Scotsman sheathed his sword again, "So, where we be headin' now?" he wondered.

Jack replied, "We were on our way to a kingdom called the Crystal Empire. It seems something is coming, a dark presence as it were. Not only that, but there is an artifact called the Chronos Compass, we found one piece and there is another where we are going. It could be the key to defeating Aku in my time."

"A treasure hunt, eh? Sign me up then, Jackie!" Scotsman laughed. "So, what can ya do, Discord?"

"Me?" the draconequess pointed to himself, "Well, I am capable of chaos magic. Beyond any magic in this world. I was helping Jack here cause I thought there was some dark threat from his world. Instead it was a ruffian friend."

"Who you be callin' ruffian?" Scotsman growled. "I'll have ya know I be a warrior strong enough to have Aku tremble before himself like a wimpy tree flailing in the wind."

"Very well,” Discord sighed. "May I ask how the likes of you met in the first place? I may be the spirit of chaos, but seeing you two be on such good terms surprises even me."

"We were on hostile terms at first. But as warriors we grew an appreciation for our abilities. I too was surprised when he asked me for help when we first reunited." admitted Jack.

"I told ya why already, it was to save me darlin' wife from those demons. We haven't seen each other since I saved yer skin from those filthy sea-dogs that played with yer mind." Scotsman laughed, putting a hand to his chest.

Discord snapped, reading a dictionary to understand what the Scotsman was saying, "Filthy sea-dogs..." he repeated to himself, turning page after page to find the definition he was looking for, "Oh, you mean Sirens! Luckily, you didn't meet the ones Twilight faced. The way she described them, they were sea-dogs."

"There are Sirens here too?" the samurai wondered.

"Ha! They will be no match for my bag-pipes!" Scotsman boasted.

Discord waved a hand, "No no. They're in a different dimension, where human counterparts of the ponies and other creatures hang out near a high school. Haven't heard from them apparently. Maybe I should start a reformation clinic." he hummed the idea, supporting it slightly. "Maybe when we're done with Sombra's plans where we're going."

"I ain't heard of Sombra." Scotsman said, "Is he some sort of lunatic from an asylum?"

"According to Twilight and her friends, he’s an Equestrian super villain. We have to warn the Crystal Empire of his presence. Discord said he plans to unleash an army of dark minions on them and the rest of this world. I'll introduce you to them once we arrive."

Scotsman smirked, "Well, we can't have that happen can we? It'll be like old times, laddie! How shall we get there in time?"

The draconequess cracked his knuckles, putting on a conductor's hat, "It'll be your guide on this journey."

"What you be talkin' about?" the burly man asked. "What's with the fancy get up? Ya look like you belong on the front of a children's storybook now."

Discord ignored his comment and snapped his fingers. A flash of white enveloped himself, Jack and Scotsman. Their destination: the Crystal Empire.
****
A black and red horn hopped into the dark cavern from the blizzard, a dark trail following its every move.

‘Finally. The temple I have seeked.' his unique situation allowed it to shield itself from any of the traps that lied within this temple.

The horn moved about, disguising itself from any danger. Finally, after wandering about a few hallways, it reached a large room. Lying on a pedestal was a golden cylinder.

‘The fragment of the fabled Chronos Compass.' it whispered.

Hopping about a little more, the horn made its way to the top of the pedestal.

With the horn glowing, a golden aura surrounded it, enhanced by the power of the fragment. At last the disembodied horn finally had a body to go with it, wearing the compass piece like a ring over it. Sombra smirked, revealing his fangs.

“I am reborn at last!" he spoke aloud in a proud tone.

Sombra cackled, using his magic once more, "Soon, my Umbra army shall reign darkness upon the Crystal Empire. And not even the Elements of Harmony can stop me. Nor that accursed dragon."

A fog of darkness covered the room as he cackled, bringing about strange forms of ponies, thestrals and even gargoyles, all surrounding the dark king, who looked upon his army smugly.

Author's Note

I'm hoping I kept the Scotsman in character. He was fun to write though.

XVII: Jack and Scotsman in the Empire

The Crystal Empire...

It was a normal day for the crystal ponies. They were going about a normal day...a day where there was no reason to worry about anything and keep remembering the heroic acts of Spike the dragon(or as they like to call him “Spike the Brave and Glorious”)

But just then, a bright white light suddenly enveloped itself onto the middle of the kingdom, and appearing from it was Discord, along with Jack and the Scotsman, whom the citizens have yet to know about.

A small crowd began forming around the three unexpected visitors in only just a few seconds, mostly because they wanted to know why Discord was here, and who his two new companions were.

The draconequess waved his hands around and spoke with a microphone, “Mares and genticolts, I present to you, the newest, biggest, greatest team in Equestria: Myself, Samurai Jack, and newcomer Scotsman!"

Jack waved nervously while Scotsman laughed.

"Aye. This be the world you ended up in, huh? A bunch'a talkin' horses. Maybe me wife would like one as a pet once I take my leave." he joked.

"They are not pets, my friend. They are people like us." the samurai commented.

The older warrior patted Jack on the back, "Ya know I'm just messin' around, laddie."

The crowd was too starstruck to really see how Jack and the Scotsman were interacting.

"Wh-What's happening?" somepony called out.

Jack bowed, "Do forgive us, kind inhabitants. I assume this to be the Crystal Empire?" he asked.

Discord nodded and also answered, "Correct, Jackie. This is where the big show is going down soon enough."

"What big show?"

Turning their heads, the humans noticed a white unicorn with a blue mane and pink alicorn walking by, said alicorn glaring at Discord.

“What's going on this time, Discord?" the alicorn asked with suspicion.

"Why do you think I'm doing something?" the spirit of chaos put a halo over his head as he tuned a harp in his talons.

The unicorn tilted his head, "Considering we're talking to the spirit of chaos himself I'm not so sure what to think..."

"Please, he means you no harm, and the same goes for us." Jack said while performing a well-mannered bow again, "I am called Jack and that is the Scotsman. We come from another world. Are you a princess like Twilight Sparkle?" he wondered.

"You know my sister?" the unicorn asked.

Jack blinked, "I did not know she had a sibling. But yes, I do. She is on her way with her friends as we speak. We have much to explain before they arrive."

Scotsman let out a hearty laugh, "Ain't that be the truth?"

Discord smiled, "Oh ho. This should be good."

The samurai looked around, noticing the evergrowing crowd that was surrounding them. "But first... May we speak about it in private? I do not wish to start a panic now. It is very important the two of you hear the news we bring."

"..." Cadance paused, unsure of what to do for the moment and looked around at the crowd.

She and Shining Armor could not afford a panic now. Not before Twilight and her friends got here at least.

“...Okay. Follow us to the castle. Then you can explain from there."

Jack nodded, "Thank you."
****
While walking to the castle, the samurai had explained that he and Scotsman are from another world, on different missions. It took a lot of assurance that it was the truth, but Cadance and Shining Armor eventually believed their story, despite how farfetched it sounded at the time.

Scotsman's eyes wandered about, "Ha! This place is made of the finest gems. Mah wife would love somethin' from 'ere. I'd be takin' something of me own once we're done here."

Groaning, Shining Armor put a hoof over his head, "Please don't... Not until you two explain why you are here and why Discord nearly started a scene in the process."

As they walked by a door blocked by two guard ponies, he gave them each a salute in greeting, and he decided to ask them something concerning their absence.

“How are Sunburst and Thorax doing with Flurry Heart?" he asked with some concern.

“The princess is as energetic as ever, but Sunburst and Thorax are not going down so easily.” an orange pegasus guard responded.

In the background, the humans and spirit of chaos could hear the sound of a baby giggling as well as two disgruntled male grunts before a crash followed by more light giggling.

“Get back, Flurry Heart! Before you get hurt!" one of them said.

Jack raised a brow at this, wondering what was going on.

Shining blinked, "...I think we get the picture. Tell them they're almost done, we need to attend to something else."

The orange pegasus saluted and replied, "Yes, sir."

The group walked by into the throne room, where they finally spoke again after a few moments of awkward silence.

“Ah Flurry Heart. The newest alicorn in the bunch. I hear that she’s quite the chaotic one." Discord laughed to himself at that.

"Was that your... daughter, we heard?" Jack wondered.

Cadance nodded, "Yes. And don't get any chaotic ideas from her, Discord, for any of your future tricks." she scolded.

As a result of Cadence scolding him, it caused the draconequess to create another halo over his head.

"Why are you even still here?" Shining asked.

Jack spoke up, "He could prove an ally for what is coming next...Darkness is coming to this kingdom. And we do not know how much longer we have until it arrives."

Those words caught the attention of the prince and princess, "Darkness? What kind of darkness?" wondered Cadance.

The samurai replied, "We are not sure. I do believe his name is Sombra from what Discord told us. Perhaps we are inexperienced in this world to know of Sombra. But why would he wish to destroy this empire if we may ask?"

"Why would a bunch'a cutesy ponies have enemies anyway?" Scotsman wondered.

Discord snapped his fingers and handed the couple an orb containing nothing but a dark cloud, "I sensed his presence nearby the shield protecting this empire. For once, I am being entirely honest. After all, I cannot disappoint Fluttershy."

While they spoke, Jack's gaze wandered behind the ponies and he silently glared, feeling something off at the time while they spoke of the oncoming danger, catching Scotsman's attention as well. The samurai raised a hand, warning his partner to be silent for the moment, which he acknowledged with a small nod.

The unicorn and alicorn looked back at the orb, then to one another for a moment, "Sombra's back? But how can we trust the two of you, and Discord? For all we know, you could be working for Sombra and just making a ruse to get into the empire."

Wanting to respond, the samurai and warrior spotted a couple of moving blobs of darkness shifting about on the clear crystal floor before they each took on a creepy equine form. He noticed the blobs remaining still, and then finally leaping forward.

"Look out!" shouted Jack.

The Samurai and Scotsman stepping forward, they unsheathed their swords for battle at last. The two humans jumped up and slashed downwards, destroying two of the dark entities that wished to blindside them.

The ponies stepped back, where Discord crested a small shield to surround them as the warriors from another world battled the darkness-filled creatures.

Jack and Scotsman looked to each other with a proud smile, seeing more of the dark beings come forward.

Scotsman was the first to attack again, slashing his blade upward, tearing apart the torso of the fake Equestrian with a hearty grin. He then noticed a small crystal on the floor and threw it directly to the head of another dark minion, but its body morphed so it missed. Scotsman growled and held up his metal leg, shooting an array of bullets at it, hoping to catch it off guard instead. He noticed its body breaking apart slowly. Then, while it was caught off guard, the Scotsman leaped in for the final slash.

One of the dark beings shot a black beam from its fake horn, intending to shoot the samurai. But Jack's sword blocked the magic and he stabbed his blade directly into the creature's chest, causing it to fade from existence upon contact. He spun his body around and slashed another fake horn, where it faded into nothingness. Jack then drove his sword upwards, removing the head of the creature, his magic destroying its body instantly.

As the two humans continued to battle, Cadence and Shining Armor couldn’t help but watch with amazement at the fact that the two warriors were able to kill those umbrum ponies when it is normally very impossible.

Scotsman laughed, "It be just like ole' times, eh?" he asked his brother in arms, the two of them standing back to back.

Jack nodded in agreement.

With their swords held out in front of them, they were ready for whatever attack was next. There were two more dark Equestrians coming, and the two screamed, finishing the job with just a few more easy swipes from their blades.

Once they were done, Samurai Jack and the Scotsman sheathed their blades with proud grins on their faces. Then Scotsman patted Jack on the back.

“Aye. Ya haven't lost yer touch since we last met, laddie. Good." he quipped.

"I could say the same for you, old friend." Jack replied.

Discord released the Equestrians from the forcefield, when Shining Armor muttered, "What the heck just happened...? What did you two do? How did...”

"You pansy ponies just witnessed us savin' yer lives." Scotsman answered, "Now can ye trust us? We kinda be runnin' on a time limit here, lassie."

Cadance hummed, "What do you mean?"

Jack closed his eyes, "This Sombra... I am not sure what he seeks here, but..." he looked out the window, noticing that all was well outside, "I fear he is already making his presence known."

Author's Note

I am so sorry! I didn't even realize it's been so long since I updated this, and I feel bad about that.

If I'm being honest, I lost a little steam for writing this and ended up writing this slowly for a month till I got myself back on track. And even then I don't think the results were all that good despite it.

I blame nothing but my procrastinating habits for the wait, but I'm back to this now. No matter how long it takes, I'm not cancelling this.

XIII: Jack's Reflection

After he was done gazing at the temple, the samurai took a brief sprint towards it, until he was able to make it to the entrance.

Jack stepped into the dark temple as fast as he could, panting. The samurai held his knees and reached into his bag again, taking a sip of his water. He noticed he was finally running out again and planned to refill once he exited. He put his water back.

Deciding it was better to not carry too much weight, and to not anything get damaged while he was inside, Jack discarded his bag and put it at the entrance of the ancient locale.

'It is too quiet in here...' the samurai noticed. His hand was once more placed firmly upon the hilt of his magic sword. 'I must exercise caution while I am here as well.'

Taking a small step forward, Jack checked the tiled flooring of the dimly-lit hallway, and then turned his attention to the holes on the wall. He could tell that it must be an arrow trap, just like ones he had encountered before. Unfortunately, just like the others, he couldn’t tell which tile would set it off. Deciding to keep going, he held out his sword in front of him and continued walking, hoping that he wouldn't set off the trap.

Another step. Jack inhaled. He wasn't scared. He had done this plenty of times before. It was only a matter of dodging the trap just right without sustaining injury.

This time, when Jack's foot touched the stone floor, the tile pressed down upon contact. The samurai's eyes narrowed, knowing what was about to happen. An arrow came out from one of the holes and he leaned back, dodging it. A few more and he ducked underneath them. They barely grazed his hair. More came and this time, Jack took the time to slice them before they reached him.

Then, Jack rolled away from the arrows, perfectly avoiding any projectile that was thrown at him, and even managed to cut any remaining arrows before they hit him. Somersaulting to a knee, the human samurai sighed and placed his sword back into its sheath, where he knew it would be taken out again should he need it.

He made it past the trap.

After taking his time to recuperate, the samurai saw a dark hallway with a set of stairs leading down into the underground. Grabbing a torch that was on the wall to light the way, Jack proceeded to follow where they would lead.
****
In the hallway, as he continued downwards, he saw hieroglyphics on the wall that seemed to detail how this temple came to be and what it was for. It seems that unlike the other places he had been in Equestria, where everything was made by ponies, this temple was made by creatures that appeared to be part eagle and part lion. He assumed that they must have been griffons.

From what he could see, this temple must have been made by the griffons as a place to worship whatever gods they had, but was abandoned after the first piece of the Chronos Compass came. Especially after several unsuccessful attempts to take it for themselves.

It took little time to reach the bottom, where he saw a flimsy wooden door. The samurai used his magic blade to break it into pieces.

'What awaits me in here?' thought Jack, standing upright from a hunched position.

It looked to be a simple hallway, like the entrance. The samurai closed his eyes and then went back to making his way through the temple. After a few moments, Jack made his way through a stone entrance, and found himself in a large square room. There was a small crack on the ceiling, being the only source of light for him.

Looking around, Jack saw something on the floor in the center of the room. There was a message inscribed in stone. And next to the message was what appeared to be glass. The samurai saw his own reflection looking at him.

‘Why is there a mirror placed here?’ he wondered.

Choosing to figure things out, Jack knelt down and read the message aloud.

“The trial of reflection...The key lies within this panel. To obtain it, you must face your dark inner self. Peace requires balance, and balance requires understanding of your limits. Should you succeed in facing your dark self, the treasure is yours."

Jack rubbed a finger on his chin. "What does it mean? My dark self?" he repeated to himself.

He stood up, seeing his reflection and the glass shake. Strangely, the samurai's reflection gave him a look of disgust, which suprised Jack when he witnessed this. The glass panel continued to shake as something began to materialize itself into existence.

The samurai jumped back, seeing a figure in his stature form across from him. The dark light faded, and Jack was taken aback. This stranger looked like him, but his eyes were blood-shot, his kimono was black with red trimmings, his hair was unkempt and down to his shoulders and a nasty sinister smirk was seen on his features. Again, there was a sword strapped to him and electricity flared on his body as he formed.

Instantly, Jack revealed his magic sword. "You! I thought I got rid of you for good!"

The evil Jack smirked, "You fool! You cannot rid me from yourself. It is who you are." he gestured a hand to his chest, "I exist because you allow me to. I am your rage. Aku has tormented you time and time again, and now you're putting an innocent world in his crossfires! You cannot live with yourself, idiot!"

Jack glared at Mad Jack, "I am running out of options. Time and time again, Aku has averted my chances in returning to my home and original period. I will do what it takes to end his tyranny. You do not represent who I am."

Mad Jack chuckled darkly, "A defiant fool till the end. You should know by now, my loathsome copy, that such behavior will do you no good. I told you once before I was born from Aku's magic based from your hidden rage that you keep within,” he pointed his own dark blade in Jack's direction, “It seems the magic of this world is great as well!"

The good samurai clenched his fists, "No! You are nothing like me!"

Growling, Mad Jack leaped in the air, raising his sword over Jack's head. Jack raised his own blade to deflect the attack.

CLANG!

The dark samurai hopped back to the floor. With a scream he swung his sword horizontally, where Jack blocked it again, moving his arm down slightly so that the middle of the blade faced the tip of his counterpart's. White sparks flashed with each strike and Jack gritted his teeth as Mad Jack laughed, halting the fight as he hopped.

"You think yourself a hero? You're only wandering around for your own purpose, to get back to your time!"

"I will do what is right to ensure Aku's end once and for all,” Jack yelled back, "You cannot cloud my mind with doubt now, false me!"

Mad Jack cackled, driving his sword forward, where Jack moved his body away from it.

"Such an idiotic hero. You turned your back on the only people capable of helping you in this world," another clang echoed across the large room as their swords slashed again, "To come here alone was a mistake!"

"This does not concern them! I wish to leave little impact here for good reason! If Aku were to find out I'm here..." Jack started to say, kicking his counterpart back slightly.

Putting a finger to his head, Mad Jack smirked, "That is the doubt within you, weak samurai!"

Jack yelled, slashing Mad Jack. In response, the dark samurai slashed vertically, tearing Jack's robes slightly, leaving a small hole.

The good samurai scowled, "They and the rest of this land would be targets! I cannot take that risk!"

"Not taking that risk will be your undoing!" Mad Jack cackled, hoping to land a strike on his opposite. But the good samurai saw the attack coming and elbowed his dark counterpart in the face, making him flinch in pain. "You--!"

The good samurai exhaled, and focused upon where Mad Jack would strike. Another vertical strike came from Mad Jack. Jack knew that he had to stop his counterpart on his own, like he had done so before.

CLANG!
****
"Hey! I found Jack's bag. Why would he leave it here?" Spike wondered. The Equestrians had finally arrived at the temple they knew Jack was at.

"Perhaps it would be a lighter weight to carry." Rarity suggested.

Carefully trotting down the hallways, Applejack observed the stepped on tile and the arrows lying about on the floor. "Looks to me, he's already been here. And made it too.”

"Yep. Definitely one of those ancient temple junk traps." Rainbow quipped.

Twilight nodded, "Then he must be close by." she closed her eyes, focusing her magic so that light particles of energy lit up her horn, allowing them to see easier.

Fluttershy shuddered, not knowing what lied ahead.

“It's okay, Fluttershy. From the looks of it, Jack already made his way near the end." Twilight assured.

"Who knows what he's up to by now.” Starlight hummed.

The Equestrian heroes by then moved on, knowing that they weren’t going to be having a problem with traps. After a few minutes, they came across the dark hallway with the set of stairs inside. They knew that Jack had obviously gone down.
****
The ponies and dragon wandered down the stairs when they spotted splinters of wood from the door.

"Looks like Jackie was definitely here!" Pinkie deduced, wearing a detective's hat and holding a magnifying glass.

"Yeah, I can tell." Rainbow muttered with a roll of her eyes.

The group continued on through the seemingly empty hallway, and heard the echo of a strange metal sound.

“What is that?" the yellow pegasus gulped in fear.

"Must be Jack." Twilight realized. The group got into a sprint and found themselves in the large barely lit room.

CLANG!

Spike raised a claw, "That's the sound!"

"But where's Jack?" Rarity wondered.

Turning their heads, the Equestrians saw their new samurai friend. But what shocked them to the point of a gasp was that across from him, there was a dark-clothed human that looked like him. They were in the middle of a sword fight. Obviously, the group of friends were taken aback by this sudden development and watched the duel for only a moment.

"Woah! Double trouble!" Pinkie gasped. "Is there another Mirror Pool here?"

When Jack heard Pinkie’s sudden exclamation, he immediately turned his head to find the source of the voice. He was shocked to find that his new friends followed him here, along with a couple of new ponies he had not yet met. He came out of his shocked state quickly when he turned to find Mad Jack once again attacking him. He jumped out of the way to dodge his opponent.