My Brave Pony: Starfleet Magic Season I

Chapters

Episode 2: Evil's Return: Part 2
Episode 3: Fearsome Flowers
Episode 4: Rollin' Rocks
Episode 5: Wetter Works
Episode 6: Double Trouble
Episode 7: Mirror, Mirror, on the Brawl
Episode 8: Nighty Nightmares
Episode 9: Up, Up and a Balloon
Episode 10: A Night to Remember: Part 1
Episode 11: A Night to Remember: Part 2
Episode 12: Dangerous Discoveries
Episode 13: Three to One
Episode 14: To See or Not to See
Episode 16: The Great Army Showdown: Part 1
Episode 17: The Great Army Showdown: Part 2
Episode 18: Queen of the Fairies
Episode 19: Histories Unfold
Episode 20: A Visit to Equestria
Episode 21: Part 1: Two-Way Invasion
Episode 22: Part 2: Decisive Actions
Episode 23: Part 3: Reunions & Unions
Episode 24: Part 4: Devastating Destruction
Episode 25: Part 5: Borrowing Miracles
Final episode: Final Part: What Believing Means
Epilogue
Prologue: How it all Began
Episode 1: Evil's Return: Part 1
Episode 15: The Fallen World of Elfaron

Episode 2: Evil's Return: Part 2

“Previously on Starfleet Magic…”

Lightning Dawn had settled into his new home, and had quickly so many new friends along the way. During a celebration of his arrival, Titan the evil sorcerer, whom had been sealed away by the Grand Ruler for centuries, appeared to crash the party and threatens to destroy all the ponies and their world with it.

EPISODE TWO

With his raging fury, Titan began to capture many ponies and imprisoned them in large bubble-like objects. Even Krysta was accidentally caught as well. “Lightning…!” she screamed.

“Krysta! No…!” cried Lightning.

“Easy pickings!” laughed Titan.

“Let her go!” Lightning demanded, but Titan only laughed and scoffed at him “You dare to command me?!” He stretched out his hand unleashing a blast of shockwaves at Lightning, which blasted him hard into the wall, and before long, the library was a complete and total mess; bookshelves were knocked down; books scattered all over the floor along with the broken glass and ruined party supplies. All the other ponies began to run in panic, much to Titan’s amusement.

Lightning was furious! “What are you going to do with those captured ponies?” he demanded to know. Titan gazed at him and his eyes glowed. “That is none of your concern!” he hissed as he raised his hand and was ready to zap Lightning!

“Hold it right there!” snapped a voice.

Titan looked towards the door, and Lightning saw some of the ponies he had met that day; Buddy Rose, Artie, Rhymey, even Starla. All four of were now wearing actual Starfleet battle-suits-- Their armors looked shinier and stronger, and now they had on knee, elbow, shoulder pads and stomach gaurds, and they all wore cool visors across their eyes like cool shades.

“In the name of Starfleet… I order you to cease and desist.” shouted Buddy Rose.

Lightning could hardly believe it. His four new friends were all members of Starfleet too, ranked as lieutenants as well, meaning they were pretty much freshmen; newbies, and Titan could hardly believe that Starfleet was still around after all this time, but he simply scoffed “You don’t know what you’re up against."

“You don’t know what you’re up against, Titan.” snapped Artie.

Rather than cause a real ruckus, Titan decided to test the warriors out. “If you truly wish to save your friends, I’ll give the chance… but you’ll have to find me first.” Then he vanished in a cloud of black and purple smoke, taking his prisoners with him. “KRYSTA…!” cried Lightning. Feeling overwhelmed with sadness and anger, he angrily pounded the floor with his fists in frustration.

The others felt sorry for Lightning, but now they had to head off somewhere. “I’m going with you.” Lightning said. “Lightning, No.” Buddy Rose said “This is a job for Starfleet. You should get to safety. We know how you feel about Krysta. We’ll get her back. I promise.”

Before Lightning could protest, the four warriors moved on out. Starla stopped at the door and gazed back at him, almost apologetically, but then she ran off to join her teammates. Lightning angrily pounded the floor again.

The library was still in a mess, until Dr. Penny arrived with her team to help treat anyone who was hurt, and following her was an elderly green alicorn, wearing small round glasses and dressed in a smart looking-suit and tie, the code GU6I, and spoke in an English accent.

“Mmm… I say! What’s happened…?”

Inquerius approached him “Can you not tell?” she asked “Did you not feel the danger?”

“Didn’t we all?” added Lightning.

The green alicorn admitted that he did calculate the tremors, “But… I wouldn’t have believed it possible that Titan has… mmm… eh… returned as it were.”

“Well that’s fine and dandy... whoever you are.” said Lightning “But it doesn’t help find where he’s gone or where he’s taken the ponies he took, and my friend Krysta.”

The green alicorn kept his cool. “My name, good sir, is Brain; Professor Horatio I.Q Brain if you will, and as soon as I knew there was trouble I began to… eh… make my calculations, and confirm my theories, and I have come to tell you that I just may know where Titan has gone.”

Lightning’s ears twitched. “Where, where have they gone? You have to tell me!”

Brain told Lightning to calm down and come to his laboratory house in Greenland.

It soon became clear that Brain was a regular genius and scientific inventor. He was no Starfleet fighter, but he was an unofficial advisor to Starfleet and developer of several of its modern-day technologies and tools.

His laboratory seemed massively loaded with many strange and bizarre inventions, but that was expected as it was a laboratory. “Please do not touch anything.” Brain warned Lightning “One little accident in a laboratory could cause massive trouble.” Then Brain sat himself down at a strange contraption that seemed to be heating water. Brain sniffed the steam. “Ahh…! Satisfactory…” he sighed “Most satisfactory.”

“What is that?” asked Lightning “Is it a device that lets you find Titan? Something that can beat him or get the ponies and Krysta back…?”

“What? Oh, don’t be silly…” said Brain “This device is merely used to make me a cup of tea. I’ve finally perfected it you know.”

“A cup of tea…?!” Lightning asked in annoyance “I thought you said you knew where Titan had gone?”

“But I do…” snapped Brain. He cleared his throat “Begging your pardon, if you will just hand me that map over there...” Lightning did as he was asked, and Brain unfolded the map and consulted his notes. “Mm, now, let me see. Ah, ha! Satisfactory…! Most satisfactory...”

“What is it?” asked Lightning.

Brain explained that the only place Titan could have taken the captured ponies would be to Blacktop Mountain, which was located on the other side of Violet Swamp. “Then that’s where we should be heading.” Lightning suggested.

“Oh, good heavens, no!” snapped Brain “You know it’s dangerous to be wandering through the swamp at night? It… eh… especially would not be bright considering… em… our enemy would be expecting you. That is what had said, was it not?”

Brain had a point. Violet Swamp was already a dangerous place even in daytime, as it was home to many creatures and dangers. The creatures got very hostile whenever they were disturbed or they felt their turfs were being trespassed on. Lightning would also be all alone and he had no magic or weapons to defend himself with. “I don’t care!” Lightning said “Krysta’s in danger and so are all the captured ponies! I’m not just going to sit around and do nothing. Grand Ruler also trained me well. I know I can do this.”

With that, he decided to fly out on his own. “Oh, dear!” cried Brain “The poor chap; I do hope he thinks twice of this at the last moment.”

Blacktop Mountain was the tallest mountain on the planet, and the upmost level of ground anyone could reach without having to fly so high. An old shrine lay on the mountaintop. Centuries ago it was used as a meeting place for Starfleet fighters of the past, and that was exactly where Titan was now. All the ponies he had captured were still trapped in their bubbles desperately trying to escape, but to no avail. Titan was most surprised to realize he had captured Krysta as well. “It’s not every day one comes across a fairy.” he hissed.

Krysta tried with all her magic and might to escape, but the bubble simply wouldn’t break. “What are you planning to do with us?” she demanded to know. Titan didn’t mind explaining to her that he was planning, and while he did he was interrupted along the way by the arrival of three other ponies; demoncorns Titan had created out of corpses, graveyard soils and fused with bits of his own magic to serve as his minions.

They were Mysterious; a black shiny pony that was practically a living shadow, but had the force and might of a solid being.

The second was called Rep-Stallion; a tough and rather pompous but strong pony holding a double-bladed scythe.

The third was a female, named Dementia. She seemed rather attractive, but she was dangerous nonetheless, and her name Dementia was implied because she had the power to warp dimensional energies and waves around her.

The minions had reported that the members of Starfleet were on their way but they had also spotted a white alicorn with a golden horn at the edge of the swamp.

Titan held both his hands together creating a ball of light he used to view the edge of the swamp, and he saw Lightning. “Why, it’s that annoying little pest who tried to stand up to me.” Titan had heard stories of Lightning Dawn and how he had no magic to even do card-tricks, let alone anything spectacular, but he also knew he was the Grand Ruler’s personal apprentice, meaning there was more to Lightning than at first glance.

When the minions asked if they should dispose of him, Titan refused. “Let him go.” he simply said. He wanted to see Lightning in action and hopefully find out any secrets that would be helpful. “And what of Starfleet, my lord?” asked Mysterious. Titan merely turned to his minions and answered with his red eyes glowing madly. “You know what must be done.”

Lightning stood at the edge of Violet Swamp, and Brain wasn’t kidding when he warned him--it really did seem dark and creepy at night. Just a simple gaze through all the thickets and brambles was enough to send chills up his spine. Still, Lightning has come this far, and he knew Krysta and the other unicorns were in danger. “Well… here goes.” He said to himself. Then he took one step forward crushing a twig under his boot as he walked followed by all kinds of screeches and noises from within the swamp. He gulped nervously but ventured forth.

It was hard to see when there wasn’t so much light, but at least it wasn’t so pitch dark you couldn’t see anything at all. Lightning figured the best way to traverse the swamp was just to keep going forward in a straight line. He would eventually reach the mountain trail for sure.

Jagged rocks, fallen logs and dangling vines seemed to trip him everywhere he stepped. He stepped in gooey mud “Yuck!” he groaned.

Suddenly, Lightning turned and thought he saw a monster, but it was only a tree in the shape of a monster. He saw a scary claw, which was actually just a long branch. Lightning took in a deep breath and counted to ten, then again, and felt better… until he heard the sound of footsteps coming towards him. Quivering in fear, he ducked down, and peeped, “Who’s there…?”

The bushes shook and twigs snapped, but then a friendly voice called. “Lightning…? Is that you…?” Lightning peeked up and saw it was Starla. He sighed heavily in relief. Starla called out to the others who were all close by. They all came over holding flashlights and lanterns “What are you doing here?” asked Artie “We told you not to follow us. This is Starfleet business!”

Lightning explained that he didn’t follow them deliberately and came out here on his own.

“We realize you are in such worry.
But you must leave here in a hurry.” said Rhymey

“Listen!” Lightning snapped at them all “You can tell me that as many times as you want, but I’m not leaving.” The others could tell there was no point in trying to say no. So, despite it being against Star Fleet’s code, they allowed Lightning to come with them. So they all traversed though the swamp together. Rhymey even decided to make things easier. His horn glowed, and he shouted, “WARD SWORD!” causing a simple knight’s sword to materialize so he could cut and hack away at all the brambles and thickets, making a clear path through.

“Follow me this way…
Hurry now. Don’t delay.”

Everyone followed quickly, because all the things that Rhymey had hacked seemed to grow back almost instantly. Suddenly, Starla began sinking. “Hey!” she shrieked “Quicksand!” The others all leapt away before they got sucked in, but Starla couldn’t seem to get out, and if the others moved to close, they would get sucked in too. “Starla…!” Lightning called “Don’t struggle. You’ll only sink faster.”

Starla remained calm, and then Lightning pulled a vine from a tree and tossed it to her. Starla caught it. Then the whole gang pulled hard and yanked her out of the sand. Starla was okay, but they could all hear the sounds of heavy footsteps coming towards them. “What now?” Lightning asked. He soon got his answer as monstrous shadowy images seem to jump right out from round the trees and open fire on them. “Look out!” cried Buddy Rose and everyone leapt out of the way. “Run!”

There was worse to come as those shadows seemed to be popping up all over the place, and worse, the trees were falling over as they had been slashed as if someone were trying to crush the gang, but finally, after running for a while and dodging all the traps they made it out of the swamp all in one piece

“What a nightmare!” Buddy Rose panted.

Lightning was glad to be out of there and now just before them was the starting trail of Blacktop Mountain, and it looked even more eerie than the swamp, sending chills up everyone’s spines. Still, they all climbed, and resisted the urge to fly up the mountain, not knowing what traps lay ahead. Not only we’re there more monsters along the way, but booby traps as well-- Things like hidden pits, rock slides, falling boulders. Even scary shadows, which only turned out to be the shadows of the gang all huddled against the mountainside.

“And you Starfleet guys do this all the time?” Lightning asked.

“Yes… we do.” Artie said. “That’s why we all joined, to help out.”

Lightning had only read and heard stories about Starfleet while living with the Grand Ruler and had spent a great deal of his time studying the manuals and regulations. Titan was not the only evil they had ever faced, but there was always some bad guy or other evil forces out there causing trouble. So over the ages, Grand Ruler sent many legions of Star Fleet warriors to patrol areas of Dimensional Space and stave off any evil they could find. This was what inspired Lightning’s new friends to join Starfleet; to continue the legacy and protect Unicornicopia and the rest of the universe as best they could so that evil might never be allowed to harm anyone.

Lightning began to wonder if maybe he should join, but he quickly became discouraged due to the fact that he couldn’t do magic or summon weapons like the others. The others felt sorry for Lightning, and wished there was something they could do.

Soon, after a while of climbing they reached the top of the mountain and there was the old shrine temple just ahead as a flash of lightning and the booming of thunder made everyone wince.

“Well, here we are…” Artie said nervously. That’s when the doors to the shrine creaked open, as if they were being invited in.

“Gee! Do you think it’s okay…
To go in that way?” asked Rhymey

“We have to.” said Lightning “We didn’t come all this way to just turn back now.”

They all quietly walked through the open doors. It was dark and eerie inside. Nobody could see a thing. “Think we should announce we’re here?” asked Buddy Rose.

“How should we do that?” asked Starla

“How about… come and get us?” Lightning called out. That was when the doors slammed shut behind, and everything went pitch black. Everyone else screamed all at once. “…Although a bloodcurdling scream is just as good.” replied Lightning.

That’s when a torch on the wall lit with fire. Then another torch lit, and another, and another, all the way around the shrine. “Look!” cried Starla.

It was the Unicorns, all sleeping inside magic bubbles, and “Krysta!” cried Lightning. He dashed over towards the bubble. “Lightning, No…!” called Artie

“Don’t go…!” rhymed Rhymey

Lightning reached the bubbles, but found his hoof could pass right through them. “These are illusions!” That’s when all the bubbles vanished instantly, and sounds of laughter echoed throughout the shrine as Titan’s minions appeared. “Well, hello there…!” hissed Mysterious.

Rep-Stallion and Dementia snickered cheekily.

“Who are you?” snapped Buddy Rose “And what have you done with the alicorns.”

“…and Krysta!” added Lightning

“They’re safe… for the moment.” said Rep-Stallion. “And if you behave nicely, we just might make your fate less painful than theirs.” added Dementia.

The gang was starting to tell that these creeps were going to give them no end of trouble. “Don’t get any ideas!” snapped Artie “When the Grand Ruler finds out about this…”

“Don’t flatter yourself.” snorted Rep-Stallion. “We can beat his magic with one hand each. Well, maybe two.”

The ponies stood poised for battle, and Rhymey held his sword tightly. Lightning, however, wasn’t sure what to do. He didn’t have any magic to use, no weapons, not even any super armor like the others. So he ducked behind a column and watched as the others began to brawl!

Artie and Buddy Rose went after Mysterious. “Let’s get him!” shouted Buddy, and the boys charged at their enemy only to end up passing right through him.

“Huh…?”

“What…?”

“Hm, mm, mm…! You missed me.” Mysterious mocked at them. The boys tried again only to repeat what happened. Then suddenly they realized. Mysterious, being made of darkness, was able to manipulate his body. “Fools, you can’t just reach out and touch a shadow.” he mocked, and ran past the boys striking them with his horn. “… but perhaps the shadow can touch you!”

Even with their armor on, Buddy and Artie felt this would be harder than they thought. The others weren’t having much luck either, as Rhymey and Rep-Stallion went at it with their weapons. Rep-Stallion was very skilled in wielding his scythe, but he was rather impressed by Rhymey’s swordplay. “I must say, you are rather good…”

“I have practiced for long, like anyone should.” rhymed Rhymey.

Rep-Stallion sniggered, and then pulled a cheap magic attack, “SCYTHE SHOCK!” and his scythe began to spark with electricity that gave Rhymey a jolt and knocked him back hard. He got back onto his feet snarling angrily…

“I’ve had enough…
It’s time to get tough!”

He spread his wings out and shouted, “DRILL QUILL!” and as he flapped his wings hard, he sent a swarm of sharp quill feathers from his wings at his enemy like missiles. Rep-Stallion got hit several times as sparks and small explosions hit him. “So, you want to play that way? Fine then…!”

Meanwhile, Dementia and Starla stared each other down. “Let’s see what you’ve got.” Dementia sneered as she charged forward. Starla leapt out of the way. “STAR SHOWER” and with her shout sent a cluster of small stars, actually energy-bolts, straight at Dementia, nearly ruffling her mane and Dementia did not like it when someone tried to spoil her pretty looks, and Dementia did not like getting her looks spoiled She turned and glared furiously at Starla. “Oh…! Ye who messes my mane WILL PAY!!” she shouted and charged at Starla with all her might, and using her power to warp the air around her negating Starla’s attacks and mocked, “Like they say, a good offense is a strong defense!”

Starla didn’t care, but as the fight was about to continue, Titan appeared and called his minions off. “That’s enough.” he said with an evil snicker. “You have done well, my minions. Return to the castle.” The minions, though disappointed as they were having so much fun, obeyed their master and vanished into thin air.

Lightning peeked from behind the column. “Oh, no! Not him…!” he whimpered softly. Having previously had a taste of Titan’s power he knew Titan was going to be much tougher than the minions, maybe even too tough for the others to handle

“Release those prisoners now!” Buddy Rose demanded. “Never!” scoffed Titan “But if you insist on seeing them again, I’ll be glad to let you join them!” and he fired a stream of magic at the ponies, most of them dodged the magic, but Starla got hit. “Uhn…” she cried and she was trapped in a magic holding-bubble.

“Starla…!” shouted Lightning.

“Let’s get him!” shouted Artie! and everyone fire their best attacks all at once…

“LEAF SWARM!” A cluster of razor sharp leaves…

“PAINT BOMB!” Artie fired blobs of paint that exploded on contact whenever it hit.

“DRILL QUILL!”

Titan got hit from all directions, but he didn’t even seem fazed. “Fools!” he laughed and then one-by-one, trapped each of them in more bubbles, ready to drain their magic and energies.

Lightning was horrified to see his friends in so much pain and suffering, as well as the prisoners, and he finally felt something inside of him snap, and he leapt out from behind the column shouting. “YOU LEAVE THEM ALONE…!”

Titan turned to face him.

“Lightning, don’t!” cried Starla.

“Get out of here while you still can!” shouted Buddy Rose, but Lightning refused.

For a moment, nothing happened. Neither Titan nor Lightning said a thing to one another or even moved. Suddenly, without warning, Titan fired a small projectile which Lightning barely dodged. “Stay out of my way weakling! I don’t know why the Grand Ruler chose you of all creatures to be his student, but I’d say he made a poor choice.”

Those words made Lightning furious and he clenched his fists angrily growling “Never say anything like that about my mentor in front of me!” and he charged towards Titan roaring like a monster. Impressed with his courage, but annoyed by his peskiness, Titan continued to fire more shots at Lightning, only to realize that Lightning was pretty quick on his feet and dodged each and every shot as if they were coming at him in slow-motion.

Titan growled and then fired one giant shot of power but Lightning leapt right over it and, with a fierce battle cry, he soared downward and managed to kick Titan right in the chest. Titan hollered in pain held his chest.

The others, watching from their prisons were nearly speechless.

“Look at him go.” exclaimed Artie.

“We were not able scratch him,
Yet he seems able to match him.” said Rhymey

“He’s amazing.” Starla muttered softly, unable to take her eyes off him.

Lightning himself wasn’t sure he could believe how strong he was, but began to realize that having been training with the Grand Ruler for more than a decade was the explanation.

Titan was most outraged. “You… dare strike me…?!” he thundered as his body began to glow with extreme anger, and he flapped open the lower area of his massive robe revealing that he had no legs at all, and that it was all just black and purple smog. “What the--?!” snapped Lightning “How…? But what…?” and while he stood there stammering in confusion, Titan saw his chance and unleashed a strong wave of extreme dark energy which hit Lightning with the force of a hurricane and seemingly knocking him down for the count.

“…LIGHTNING!!” the others all shouted, and when the smog had cleared, Lightning lay flat on the ground and felt very weak and sore. Titan laughed hard and evilly and continued to mock at him, “And you call yourself an alicorn?” Lightning struggled to get up, but he collapsed in near exhaustion and pain. Titan decided, “Well then, allow me to put you out of your misery!” Titan said as began to power up again for one final, really big blast. The others could hardly bare to watch, this truly looked like the end for Lightning…

“No…!” Lightning suddenly snapped, and he struggled, and struggled, and he managed to stand back up, much to Titan lividness. “Good gracious, are you still thinking you can win?”

“I’m… not… thinking…” said Lightning “Magic… or no magic… I KNOW I CAN BEAT YOU!” That’s when his golden horn began to glow with a mystical light that seemed to cover all of Lightning’s body. He felt incredibly strong now.

“That… that glow!” growled Titan “…No! No it can’t be…?!”

The others all watched in amazement. “Is that what I think it is…?” asked Buddy Rose.

“Without a doubt…
The truth now comes out!” said Rhymey.

Titan was not willing to let it be so. “Say goodbye…!” he snarled as he continued to charge up, but Lightning, still glowing, stepped forth and recited a chant, almost like being in a trance.

“I summon forth a mystic power
To aid me in this darkest hour
Casting now upon my foe
I now unleash… this magical glow…!”

Titan roared loudly and fired his magic-stream, and Lightning shouted, “…UNIFORCE!”

(skip to 0:38)

He fired a large and powerful golden force of extreme magic which met with Titan’s force sending it right back towards him.

“AAHH-Uh…? NO…!”

KAPOW! He was hit hard and seemed to explode in a ball of fire, leaving only his charred robe behind. Lightning stopped glowing, and he felt extremely exhausted now as if he had just blown out every last bit of his energy.

The bubble cells holding all the prisoners had vanished now that Titan was gone. Lightning’s friends were released from their bubbles while outside, the dark clouds lifted as the evil vanished from the mountain and the swamp below. Everyone shouted for joy, and Krysta was so happy to be free and so proud of Lightning while the members of Star Fleet were amazed. “He did it.” said Buddy Rose.

“But how…?” asked Arite.

Lightning was slowly recovering his strength but he still felt a little woozy. “Wow!” he exclaimed “Was that... could it be?!”

“Lightning, you won!” cried Krysta “You saved everyone.

Lightning felt really shocked and amazed with himself. It all happened so fast though.

Suddenly, the doors to the shrine opened, as dawn began to break and the sun shined through, followed by a mystical glow and then… he appeared-- a handsome, tall white alicorn with a short dark mane with images of space flowing like a picture. He wore jewel encrusted golden armor with doublets on each side into it, a red cape with gold markings fluttering on his back, even though there was no breeze. Golden Pegasus wings, black boots with golden edges round the feet, and atop his head were three golden horns, all shimmering like the stars

The ponies all bowed, and so did Krysta. Lightning’s eyes lit up and he actually found the strength to leap for joy. “Grand Ruler, you’re here!” He ran over to greet his mentor, and Grand Ruler was pleased to see everyone. “Lightning, my boy, I am pleased you and everyone are safe, and I am very proud of you, for what you have done.”

“You are, sir?”

His mentor nodded and explained he had. He explained that he had witnessed everything that had happened; he didn’t come to help because he knew that Lightning’s training would pay off and that he could handle the situation.

Lightning and his new friends felt confused.

"Begging your pardon, sire..." said Buddy "But why would you not assist us? We all could've been hurt."

His majesty crossed over to Titan’s charred robe and pulled out a damaged block of wood with an ancient seal marking on it. “This was not actually Titan, but in fact a puppet imitation of him, with only a fraction of the actual power."

The ponies gasped, they all had studied these puppet-clone spells before. "If that was only a fraction of his power, I'd hate to see the real Titan." said Artie.

Grand Ruler clenched the broken puppet wood in his hand, breaking it to splinters in his grip. "Had this truly been the real Titan, I would have come in an instant. I knew you would be able to handle this puppet, however... due to the puppet's appearance and all this trouble; a thing I have feared most is coming true."

He turned to face the others, "You must all listen very carefully to what I am about to say. Our world, and many worlds beyond as we know may now be in terrible danger."

He explained that ever since he had fought against Titan a-thousand years ago and banished him into the Dark planet, it was always feared that Titan would one day make an attempt to escape and return to finish what he started.

“It now appears, that somehow, Titan is regaining his power. Sending this puppet and those three evil ponies proves it!"

He continued to explain that the Dark Planet was, just that-- a very wicked and desolated planet located in the outer reaches of the galaxy. After Titan had been banished to the planet, Grand Ruler used his own powers to shroud the entire planet in a powerful force-field which had kept Titan there for all those centuries.

"Now it seems that Titan has grown strong enough to actually weaken the barrier; by puncturing a small breech in it, enough to send these creations after us."

“He was testing us?” asked Lightning.

“Yes, I’m afraid he was." replied Grand Ruler "Though the barrier may be weakening, Titan is still incapable of freeing himself, but rest assured, from what has happened Titan will attempt to find ways to increase his powers to escape my seal, and if he is successful... it will surely mean disaster to all!”

The ponies were starting to feel frightened “We can’t let him escape.” said Artie.

“What can we do?” asked Starla.

More and more ponies began to panic and stammer about of what to do. “Calmness everyone…!” Grand Ruler "As I have said, Titan is still weak and cannot escape himself, which gives us an outside chance. I will be doing everything that I can to maintain the seal against Titan, but at the same time, Titan will also be sending more monstrous creations to attack our world in an attempt to increase his power.

It pains me to say this to you, but I'm afraid I will not be able to join you in battle."

This worried everyone. “But we need you to fight by our side.” cried Starla.

“We can’t beat Titan without you.
Who knows what he may try or do.” said Rhymey.

“You all must understand. Unicornicopia is already in enough danger.” said Grand Ruler. “As well as maintaining the seal of the Dark Planet, I must also use my power to protect the civilians and innocent ones of my kingdom in times of danger. I mustn’t strain myself any more than I should have to.”

He gazed down at the fighter ponies, “You all and many others with you are officers of Starfleet. It will be your duty like the many you came before you to fight to defend our world from any and all evil attacks that may come our way.”

“Yes sir!” the fighters said and saluted to him. Grand Ruler nodded, and then gazed at Lightning. “As for you, Lightning, the time has come for you to take your training to the next level.

...I want you to join Starfleet as well.”

Lightning was speechless and shocked at first, as were the others, "But... Master... I--"

“I have trained you well, Lightning Dawn, and you have already proven yourself to be a worthy fighter. Though you have no natural magic of your own, you are no doubt capable of performing tasks, feats and doing battle without it, and that with your golden horn, you have the power to tap into the uniforce-- the one thing that Titan and his minions fear most.”

“But what is the uniforce?” Lightning asked “How do I unleash it again?”

Grand Ruler placed his hand over Lightning’s shoulder. “You will learn in due time, and you will also discover that you are capable of doing far more than you think, so long as you continue to believe in yourself and in the faith of your new friends.

That goes for all of you.” He bowed to his subjects and they all bowed back.

This was the beginning of a new adventure for everyone!

(Promo)

In our next episode, Lightning is sent on an errand for Buddy Rose, but Titan sends Dementia to attack by creating vicious monsters. Lightning, must fight alongside what little help he has, and even receives a new weapon to aid him in his quest for freedom and justice.

What is this new weapon, and will be able to help defend the planet?

Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic!”

(Next Episode: “Fearsome Flowers”)

Episode 3: Fearsome Flowers

EPISODE THREE

Usually being accepted into Starfleet took lots of hard work and serious training; four to six years of studying at the Starfleet academy as well. However, due to the fact that Lightning had been personally trained and prepped by the Grand Ruler himself for well over a decade, and by his majesty's royal command, all the technical stuff was overlooked and disregarded. As such, Lightning was immediately inducted, and already promoted to Senior Lieutenant, which made him superior to his other friends, and the leader of the unit.

Though Lightning was initially unsure of being a leader of his own force having not much experience with such responsibilities, his master knew he would do just fine, and his master was very trustworthy.

Krysta, being Lightning’s companion-- with her astonishing ability of strength, she was dubbed as an auxiliary Starfleet fighter; practically Lightning’s sidekick.

Lightning also received two packages from Grand Ruler that day; one containing his new armor vest. It was exactly the same as his old one, only now the insigna had stars around it to show he was a member of the force. The insigna itself was replaced with a special-transforming badge... an Energizer... which still had the same marking of a Unicorn and a single wing!

A few simple sequenced taps would allow Lightning to change clothes instantly, if and when he was in a hurry and had no time to change by himself, but only by shouting the command "Starfleet Magic" followed by a single press on the energizer would be transform into Battle-Mode, just like the others did durring the fight on the mountain.

The armor itself composed of a highly density polymerized alloy and infused with Stardust and Cosmic energies; making it hundreds of times stronger than diamond. Nothing could harm it under fifty-thousand degrees and would take a lot of power and strength just to dent it. It was also magically enchanted; it would amplify the wearer’s natural abilities, magic, and weapons, making them stronger and swifter than they were before.

The visors, now they were most important piece of equipment. Each visor had a set of various incredible functions.

-Heat sensory
-X-Ray
-Infrared vision
-Sound Scan
-Radar
-Telescopic magnification
-Medical scan
-Power scouting
-Database retrieval

Also, all Starfleet suits as well their fighters fought under a specific elemental or attributed force. Lightning's was "The Power of Believing" a very uncommon force among any other, and actually the only one of it's kind to ever be in Starfleet before, but it represent Lightning's courage and determination, propelling him to keep fighting and never stop believing in himself, even when things seemed dire.

Lightning almost couldn’t wait for his first official battle.

He was however curious about the second package as well. It was wrapped with a special magical material, not the kind you could just rip away or open so easily. All it came with was a letter from Grand Ruler…

Lightning…

You are about to embark on your adventure to help protect our world from that which threatens us. As much as I have faith in you, I wish to take no chances for your safety and therefore feel I should let you have this. You may not be able to open this package just yet, but all shall be made clear to you when the time is right.

I have complete faith that you shall be one of our greatest assets in the fight against Titan and his evil forces.

Learn well and strong, my apprentice, and keep on believing.

Your caring Mentor: Grand Ruler.

“Huh! I wonder what it is.” Lightning said as he shook the package trying to figure it out, but he decided to just leave it be for now. He had other things to attend to. Though he was an official Starfleet member now, he still had a normal life to live, and needed a simple job to pass the time, earn some extra money as well as make a little living outside the force. So he decided, and became a community worker; he would go around and help others at their work or do menial tasks for others.

The entire planet was now well aware of what was happening, that Titan and his forces were out there and willing to strike again, but with Starfleet on constant alert and patrolling the areas for any signs of danger, the civilians lived in not too much fear and still went about their daily lives; it was better than living in fear and staying in hiding all the time.

Some Starfleet officers did aerial patrols, others were walking beats on the streets, and others were on sentry duty in lookout towers. If anything evil came to the planet, they’d have to be pretty slick to avoid being seen!

Still, Unicornciopia was also a planet of law-and-order, as was said before, crimes, hostile acts and such things were not tolerated. Everyone wanted to live in civil peace and good-relationships, but if the law was broken, depending on the severity, there would be consequences.

Lightning pretty much was starting to get used to his new life, but he never neglected his training and exercise to keep strong, nor his studying to gain more knowledge of the world and galaxy around him, but most importantly the uniforce. It wasn't like anything he had ever seen or studied before.

What was the Uniforce really? Where did it come from? How did he tap into it before, and how could he do it again? He still had no idea how to summon it like he did in the battle against the Titan-Puppet

Unfortunately, he searched all over the library, but not one of the books had the information he sought. He was starting to feel a little frustrated. Inquerius was passing by and saw him studying hard again. “Are you frustrated, Lightning?” she asked.

“I don’t think "frustrated" is the word?” Lightning sighed “Do you have any other books that can help me find what I’m looking for?”

“Do you really think that what you seek can be found in a book? That such a rare and extremely powerful force has been recorded.” asked Inquerius.

“That’s what I’m asking you!” snapped Lightning. He apologized quickly for being rude, “But please, can you just help me out?”

Inquerius felt confused, “I have not been helping you already?”

Lightning was getting so frustrated at all those questions, but Artie was passing by with some books he was returning told Lightning “You haven’t been around very long, and I don’t think you quite get it here. You see, her name is Inquerius; "Inquerius" like "inquire" or "curious."

She doesn’t give answers, she asks questions. It’s the way she talks. Just like how Rhymey rhymes all the time, at least he does it less annoyingly.” He chuckled softly, but Rhymey looked up from his book and scoffed teasingly.

“Less annoying, eh?
My rhymes are okay.”

Lightning got the drift now. Inquerius helped others by trying to get them to realize the answer for themselves; like answer a question by asking a question. A rather bizarre, but somewhat effective way to get certain things.

“Is there not something else you can do instead of pondering over this mystery?” asked Inquerius.

Krysta fluttered near her friend and suggested he take a break go get lunch. “You’ve been working too hard, Lightning. You really should relax.”

Lightning felt that was laughable. How could he relax at a time like this when he had so many unanswered questions tormenting him, as well as worrying what Titan was up to now? But just then, his stomach gurgled he complied with what Krysta said.

The Dark Planet was, as its name suggested, an eerie, dreary, fearful place with dark thundering skies. The grounds were littered dark soils, burned trees, and the bones of dead bodies decaying. Just the ideal place to keep an evil demon like Titan imprisoned all those centuries, but in all that time, Titan had slowly begun to rebuild, and in the center of the planet stood a tall and spooky dark castle, his home and base of operations for the past millennium.

Over the ages, Titan worked hard to restore his power, and break Grand Ruler’s barrier on the planet and escape; So far all he had succeeded in was creating a small rift big enough to send his minions or puppet-clones of himself through, but not great enough for himself. In order for him to escape, the entire barrier would have to be brought down

Now understanding what his course of action was. He summoned his minions before him in his massive throne room. The minions bowed, and Titan explained his plan, “My experiment in sending that puppet to gather energy from the alicorns has proven a success. Even now, the rift in the force field is expanding as my power grows, which greatly weakens the barrier itself, but if I am to effectively escape I shall require more power, which means more energy drained from those ponies and the world around them. Do you understand?”

Mysterious bowed to his master “We understand completely my Lord Titan. We will not let you down.”

Dementia nodded, but Rep-Stallion scratched his head in confusion, “Uh, not trying to question orders, but can’t we just get stronger in secret and then strike those punks again?”

Dementia nudged him softly and growled “We’re going to explain it to you one last time, so pay attention! One of the first rules of combat is… Don’t underestimate your opponent!”

“Dementia is correct.” hissed Titan “That is mistake I intend not to make a second time, therefore we stick with my plans. By doing this will not only gain more energy and power, should Starfleet spring into action we shall study them and learn of their skills and power, making it easier to crush them in our own time.

However, if we destroy them beforehand, that’s fine too.”

Mysterious and Dementia nodded, and Rep-Stallion nodded too finally understanding. “Tell us my lord.” Mysterious asked “How shall we carry out your wicked will?”

Titan snickered sinisterly and in his hands he conjured up a sack of magic powder he entrusted to the minions. “This dust contains one of the more darker spells. Sprinkle it over any inanimate object and you will see."

He snickered sinisterly.

Lightning and Krysta had finished their lunch and thanked Cookie Dough. “Happy to do it for you guys.” he replied, and then he left to get back to work.

Krysta let out a tiny burp. “Ooh! Excuse me!” she giggled, but Lightning still seemed distracted. “I don’t get it…” he said. “How can everyone be so calm when there’s an evil force out there that could attack any minute?”

Krysta was just as confused as he was, but then assumed everyone was just trying to be brave. “We can’t just let one fact scare us.”

“I don’t know…” Lightning said “Wouldn’t it be easier to just blow up the Dark Planet, and Titan would be gone?” but suddenly he realized “What am I talking about…?” He knew that Starfleet was not a murderous force. They couldn’t go around blowing worlds up without good reason or cause. Even still, from what he had already seen, studied, and heard of, it was clear Titan couldn’t be defeated quite that easily, even if he was weak. Even the Grand Ruler was not strong enough to ultimately destroy Titan, hence why he had him sealed off in the first place.

No, until something could effectively be done, all there was nothing to do was continue to stave Titan and his forces off. In the meantime, Lightning and Krysta decided to head to Buddy Rose’s garden to pick some flowers for their home in White Village.

There were so many kinds of flowers and they were so beautiful and nice to smell. Krysta was careful not to sneeze this time. As Krysta was about to pick some flowers, Buddy Rose came along and said “You don’t want those flowers.”

“I don’t…?”

“They’re too plain-- Too ordinary. Now I have something I think you’ll really love.” He motioned for them to follow him to a vacant patch in the flowerbeds with only mere drawings such beautiful flowers on sticks. They were so incredibly beautiful it was almost impossible to describe them…

Buddy Rose explained that’s why they were called Beauti-Flors, and they only grew in his hometown, Redwood Meadows. “So why don’t you have any here?” asked Lightning.

“I ordered a new supply of seeds from there, but my shipment’s way overdue.” said Buddy “I’ve sent contacts back and forth but I haven’t gotten any replies, and I can’t leave just yet, the garden needs urgent tending to. If there’s one thing I learned about gardening, never neglect your duties. The slightest bit could be fatal.”

“Well, can’t you ask your family to come by and drop it off.” added Lightning, but Buddy Rose stopped and froze on the spot. He looked very grim all of a sudden. “My folks… they died a few months ago.”

Hearing this stunned Lightning and Krysta. "Oh, I'm really, sorry." Lightning said.

"It's okay, you didn't know."

Buddy Rose explained how a few months ago he had graduated from the Starfleet academy, while his parents had gone off to the planet Yale, where his older sister, Iris, was attending college. They were all planning to come back and visit to celebrate Buddy Rose’s graduation, when the planet got attacked by invaders. Starfleet did the best they could but weren’t able to save everyone. Several lives were lost, three of them being his family.

Lightning felt really bad for Buddy. His parents were dead too, and just learning of this spiked an old painful memory inside of him. However he didn't let it show, not liking to think of it, and was really concerned for his friend.

“Now we're really sorry.” said Krysta.

“It’s okay, you’re not to blame.” Buddy replied “Now I only have one living relative, my little cousin, Daphne Dill. She lives with me, and I take care of her after her parents died in an accident, but she’s too young to make a delivery of such importance, and she’s in school. So, I can’t ask her to get me the seeds.”

Lightning and Krysta offered to get the seeds themselves, to which Buddy was thankful.

Lightning and Krysta flew off, and in a very short time they had arrived!

Redwood Meadows: It was a lovely village with red roses and other red flowers in the fields as far as the eye could see and even some tall redwood trees. Little white cottages with red thatched roofs were all scattered along either sides of a red-brick road leading into the flower fields.

Strangely however, Lightning and Krysta couldn’t see any movement below, no signs of life. “Where is everyone?” Lightning asked. Krysta had no clue. “Let’s go down and take a look.” and down they went. Everything seemed as if they village had been evacuated. It was so quiet they could almost hear the echo of leaves falling.

Suddenly, Lightning felt the ground rumbling and the tremors grew stronger with every passing second. “Krysta…?” asked Lightning “What’s that noise…?”

Krysta gulped hard. “I don’t think I want to know.”

The rumbling got stronger, and then suddenly, Lightning and Krysta could hear the creepy sounds of soft growling coming from behind them. They turned round, and what they saw nearly made them leap out of their skins! It was a flower exactly like the Beauti-Flors in Buddy’s pictures; only it was at least twenty feet tall, with dark eyes, sharp, prickly vines, teeth… and it roared like the monster it was. It also ran in the ground itself by its roots and tore everything in its path as it went.

Lightning and Krysta backed away, and then they heard the sound a familiar laughter, and Dementia appeared, levitating in the air. “Hi…!” she teased.

“You…!” snarled Lightning “So, this is Titan’s doing!”

Dementia nodded. “You didn’t think you’d go unpunished for you actions on our last encounter… did you?” Then she instructed her monster, Floralbite, to attack and destroy Lightning. The Floralbite snapped its teeth twice. Lightning realized what this meant. “Well… I guess this is It.” he said and remembered what he was supposed to do, he stood upright and waved his arms shouting “Starfleet Magic!” touching the insignia on his armor, and he donned his battle suit and hollered“Power of Believing!”

The body of his armor was still white, but his visor, shoulder-pads and stomach guard were gold colored like his horn. Lightning clenched his fists tight “Let’s do this!”

Floralbite lunged at Lightning and he and Kyrsta evaded it, causing the monster to smash the ground. “Wow!” Krysta exclaimed “I never thought flowers could be so strong.”

Lightning leapt up, and scanned the beast with his visor. Its attack was fairly high, its defenses weren’t nearly too high, but its attacks were dangerous. What was even stranger, the life readings gave off strange signals. No vital signs, no inner-bio functions. “Hey, this monster isn’t a living being, it’s just made out of ordinary flowers.”

“What?!” snapped Krysta.

Dementia snickered and gently patted the small sack out powder on her belt. “What, giving up already?” she teased. Lightning growled angrily and leapt over kicking the monster hard in its body. The monster growled in pain and nearly toppled over after that attack, but was still strong and ready for more.

Dementia, although amazed by Lightning’s strength, laughed hard and mocked Lightning for his foolish attempts and then she herself leapt down to join the fight. “Let’s see how you like this, WARP WAVE!” and she sent a waving blast of wavy-energy right at Lightning. He back flipped out the way, but Dementia continued to fire at him while he continued to backflip away, but finally he got hit and rolled down a small slope. “…Gotcha!” Dementia laughed! “Hey!” snarled Krysta “No one does that to my friend!” and she lunged right at Dementia, buzzing around her like an insect, which greatly annoyed her. She swung her arm and nearly batted Krysta away, but she swerved and kicked Dementia hard in the face, actually sending her down. “Ha! Take that!”

Dementia was outraged that her pretty face had been kicked and splotched with dirt “My beautiful face! You pesky firefly, take this!” and she fired another wave blowing Krysta high up in a draft. “Whoa!”

Lightning saw that, and dashed over to try and help, but the Floralbite ran out in popped up in front of him, and punched him hard sending him skidding across the ground. Lightning wasn’t hurt badly, but was angrier than ever as he got up again. Since this monster was not truly alive, it could be destroyed without consequence, but Lightning no magic of his own to do so.

He struggled and struggled with all his might trying to summon he uniforce, but nothing happen. He needed help and fast if there was to be any hope of beating this thing!

The Floralbite growled and fired large barbs at him that exploded on contact which Lightning did his best to evade. “There has to be a way to stop this thing.” cried Krysta.

“There is, just surrender, willingly I’ll make sure your treated with mercy.” hissed Dementia.

“…Never!” Lightning snapped “I may be the newbie, but I believe I can still win.” but while he was proclaiming, the monster managed to catch Lightning off guard, grabbing him with its snaring vines. “Lightning!” cried Krysta as she tried to fly over and help him but Dementia just kept blasting more waves at her. “Destroy him now!” Dementia bellowed.

The monster opened its huge mouth ready to devour Lightning whole. “No…!” growled Lightning “I… won’t… let this… happen!” and he sank his teeth into the vines. The monster roared and growled in pain as it released Lightning.

“Hey…!” shouted Dementia “You won’t get away that easy.” but as she prepared to retaliate…!

“LEAF SWARM!” shouted a voice as a swarm of razor leaves flew at her.

“Buddy Rose!” cried Krysta and Lightning.

Buddy Rose, in full armor himself, smirked at them. “I wondered why you guys were taking so long. Then word came in Rainbow City that Redwood was under attack.”

Dementia was furious, as well as in a mess. “Get them!” she thundered, and the monster charged. “Run!” shouted Lightning, and the gang dashed away only to have the monster start chasing them. The monster growled and opened its mouth to fire more explosive barbs. “Look out!” Lightning called as he and Buddy evaded the attack.

“All right, that does it!” snarled Buddy “There’re only one way to deal with a bad bud like this! VINE WHIP!” and he summoned forth a long whip which was his basic weapon. He lassoed it round the monster near its roots and yanked with all his might pulling it up and out of the ground, and then lassoing the whip around the roots so it couldn’t get back up again.

“No!” cried Dementia “Floaralbite, get up!” The monster tried with all its might, but it couldn’t seem to get up straight with the whip latched round its roots. “Awesome!” said Lightning “But what do we do now? How can we stop it for good?”

“I was hoping you’d know.” said Buddy. He himself was still a Starfleet freshman, and he didn’t have any powerful finishing-moves he could use. The Floralbite was fussing about and struggling to break free “I can’t hold on much longer!”

“Aw… what’s the matter? Out of options are we?” teased Dementia. Then she used her powers to free her monster and make it stand up right again. “Uh oh…!” cried Krysta, but just as the monster was about to charge in something sped past it. “What now?” Dementia sneered as she and the others saw the object hover before Lightning “Hey! It’s that package I got from the Grand Ruler.” Indeed it was, and the wrapping around it magically vanished revealing a small golden scepter with a golden ball on time, and encrusted with rows of colorful jewels, all the colors of the rainbow.

“Lightning…!” echoed a voice.

“Grand Ruler…?” Lightning cried, but his master was nowhere to be seen; only his voice was heard.

“If you are hearing this magical message, means you are ready to take possession of this item.

Although you are strong and swift, brute strength alone will not always be enough to help you. You may be able to tap into the uniforce, but you have much to learn before you truly can master it. Therefore, until such a time, I give you THIS to assist you in battle.

This is the Rainbow Rod. I created it centuries ago, and in time it has become infused with great power that should be extremely helpful to you. When the time is right, and you have strength enough, simply recite the chant inscribed on the rod, and unleash the Spectrum Stream.”

Heeding his master’s message, Lightning took hold of the rod, and held it tightly and began to recite the chant.

“Powers of the rainbow, heed my call
I summon you now to make evil fall
Let goodness and justice triumph in might
I summon now… the rainbow’s light!”

He held the rod up high as it began to glow mystically. “What’s going on…?” cried Dementia.

Once the rod was fully charged, Lightning aimed it at the monster and shouted “SPECTRUM STREAM!” A magical force of powerful magic fired from the tip of the scepter in all the colors of the rainbow with white in the center and struck the Floralbite hard. The monster roared loud, and Dementia braced herself from the upcoming shockwaves as the monster fell over backwards and vanished in a fiery explosion, and the smoke cleared, all that was left were nothing more than ordinary Beauti-Flors scattered along the ground

“Wow!” cried Lightning he gazed down at the rod “I… I did it!”

"Whoa... too cool." said Buddy. He gazed down at his whip. It didn't have a cool finisher move like that... not yet anyway.

Dementia couldn’t believe what has just happened, but she decided to flee while she had the chance. “You’ll pay for this!” she snarled as she vanished and was gone.

Buddy Rose was happy that his hometown would be safe and he could cancel his order for the seeds because now he had enough Beauti-Flors to fill a whole basket. “I’ll take them back to my garden and get them replanted.”

Still, what none of them could understand was how the flowers became a monster in the first place. Dementia’s magic was only used for offence and defense. So how did she make all the flowers turn into something like that?

Whatever the reason, they were sure to find out. At least the village was safe now and the damages would be easily repaired. Buddy Rose even gathered up all the flowers he could carry and planned to take them back to his garden.

Back in Titan’s lair, Dementia was struggling hard to make herself look pretty again after all she had been through, much to the annoyance of her fellow minions. Titan however was no too disappointed that Dementia had failed in her mission to destroy Lightning. She still got him the energy he needed.

The force of the battle was so intense that each and every time an attack was used more energy was unleashed, giving Dementia the chance to secretly absorb it and take it back with her to give to Titan so he could weaken the seal and increase his own powers. Furthermore, Titan now knew the existence of Lightning’s rainbow rod. It was all just too perfectly laid out. Win or lose; Titan would always get what he wanted. He couldn’t help but snicker softly.

Once back in Rainbow City, Buddy Rose went straight back to his garden and planted all his new flowers into place. “Beautiful.” He remarked. “Simply beautiful…” and he handed Lightning a bouquet of flowers for his home in White Village, free of charge. Lightning almost felt embarrassed “It’s not really normal for a male to give another flowers.” he joked.

Buddy Rose agreed, but it was his job “You guys helped save my hometown, as well as helping me get these flowers. Now my business will go up twice as much.”

Lightning and Krysta were also grateful to Buddy. He showed up just in time to help them, and that was what Starfleet was all about, helping one another, and working as a team.

That night, before going to bed, Lightning sat himself down at his desk and with began to write in his journal his report on what had happened, and then write a report on his current status and adventures, and any other interesting things he would find.

He was told by Grand Ruler to do this after every battle, or extreme adventure, and then send him the journal by instant mail.

Lightning wrote his report…

“My first mission as an official Starfleet member has been a success, thanks to my extensive training, my new friends helping me, and my increasingly in curiosity newly acquired weapon the rainbow rod.

As of today, I have also realized it is best to wait for things to come with time. For shortcuts and impatience often can lead to disaster. As much as I am curious to understand and eager to learn the secrets behind my training of true magic, and that of the mystical uniforce which I am mysteriously able to tap into, I will do my best not to let my desire for these answers slow me down or frustrate me.”

He signed his name, then sent the report through the magic mailbox slot which would send it all the way to Grand Ruler’s floating palace in the sky.

After that, he hopped into bed, and turned out the lights and dreamt of all the adventures he would have another day.

(Promo)

In our next episode, Lightning and Starla seem to be growing closer as he learns more about her and the force, but Rep-Stallion shows up to create a force of his own; a solid rock monster immune to most attacks.

How can Lightning and Starla hope to beat this rock-headed beast? What will become of their budding feelings?

Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic!”

(Next Episode: “Rollin’ Rocks”)

Episode 4: Rollin' Rocks

EPISODE FOUR

The Rainbow Rod was indeed a mysterious weapon and was enchanted to respond to Lightning’s voice commands and his only; it was also doubly enhanced to sense a faker trying to imitate Lightning’s voice. Its primary purpose was to serve the finishing blow.

Now that they all knew what they were up against, the Grand Ruler was going into extra precautions to protect the civilians of his planet. From then on, any time there was extreme danger such a battle about to commence, warning alarms would sound alerting the citizens to immediately run for the nearest shelter-- either their own homes or a neighbor’s home, a school, the shopping center-- just so long as they were inside. Magical force fields, generated by the Grand Ruler’s magic would then surround the buildings and homes to prevent collateral damages, or evil invaders from getting inside.

Several practice drills were done, and soon everyone was used to the new rule.

Those who were not able to get indoors in time before the shields went up were advised to keep as far away from the danger area as possible; after all they couldn’t get hurt form battles if they were not involved.

In case of long waiting periods, emergency supplies of food and water and other essentials were passed all over. Lightning, spent the whole week helping to deliver supplies, as was his job as community worker, but he was glad when the last of the supplies were dropped off. “Well, that should be all of it, Kyrsta.”

Krysta checked her clip board, which was larger than she was. “Yep!” she chirped “And about time too. I’m exhausted.”

Lightning’s eyes widened at that statement. “You’re exhausted? Look at my wings!” Lightning Wings were all tired out from flying back and forth between towns and villages so much. “Not to mention carrying all these heavy crates and boxes.”

He was really looking forward to going home for a nice long rest, only he ran into Artie along the way. He was carrying a towel with him. “Hi, Lightning. Hi Krysta…”

His friends returned his greeting. “What’s with the towel?” asked Krysta. Lightning also noticed that Artie didn’t have his armor on and was merely wearing his exercising clothes, sweatband and he wore shoes instead of his boots. “Oh, no…! Please don’t tell me…?” he groaned.

It was fitness-day-- The day when members of the force were to go through exercise workouts. It wasn’t just all believing and having good skill to use magic, they also had to be in good shape and keep fit for normal everyday lives, as well as combat without magic. Participation was mandatory.

Before Lightning knew it, he too was in his exercise clothes, and ready to get moving along with everyone else. Penny was the coach. As a doctor she knew fit fighters when she saw them and how to make them stay that way.

“Okay ponies! Are we ready…?” she called out. The crowd shouted loudly “YEAH…!”

“Yeah.” groaned Lightning.

Penny put them through all kinds of exercises, aerobics, even a little bit of track and field. Many of the unicorns did superb, but some didn’t do so well. Lightning was doing the worst. He could hardly do so many push-ups; he couldn’t leap over the jump pole, and during a period of timed jogging he finally collapsed. “Ugh…!”

When he awoke, he was in the hospital, and Penny was wearing her medical-uniform and looking after him. Krysta was there too. “Where am I?” Lightning asked groggily. “Shh…! Take it easy, Lightning…” whispered Penny.

Krysta explained what happened, and how Lightning had already been working hard with the deliveries and countless flights back and forth. “You’re overworked. Oh, I should’ve known better than to put you put there. I’m sorry, Lightning. I should’ve known better than to force you into all those exercises.”

“We all make mistakes, Penny.” Lightning said while smiling sleepily, “Well… at least now I can get some rest. Even Starfleet fighters know better than to over-train.”

Penny nodded, and said she’d check up on him later.

When Lighting woke up again, he felt much, much better. “I feel like I could lift up the moon.” he joked. “Bad idea, that.” Krysta said. “I don’t think you could lift up anything that big.”

Lightning laughed with her.

Meanwhile, Titan had observed the conversation, then he turned to face Rep-Stallion, “And you say you have an idea?” he asked.

“Sure, boss.” answered Rep “I mean, uh… yes my lord! What finer way to crush those punks by using something strong and sturdy, something virtually immovable, solid as a rock maybe.”

“Get to the point!” snarled Titan. Rep-Stallion winced, but then replied “Well, that is my point. Don’t you see, I’m going to make a monster so strong and solid, them ponies won’t stand too much a chance, and the more they try the more energy you’ll get. You might even be able to escape from here faster than you originally thought. What do you say?”

“Rep-Stallion, you may proceed.” said Titan.

As Rep-Stallion prepared for his mission, he suffered the ridicule of his teammates. “Even I know this plan of yours won’t work, Rep-Stallion.” mocked Mysterious.

“Huh! Just you wait.” snapped Rep “I’ll be delivering pony pancakes to the front door by the end of the day.”

“Oh, sure you will.” Dementia said with sarcasm as she gazed at herself in her mirror from many angles. “The fact that your muscle makes you so strong, there’s no room for intelligence.”

Rep growled and felt steam shooting out his ears, but he decided to take no further notice and went on his way mumbling “I’ll show them.”

Lightning and Krysta were passing through though the fields, when they noticed Starla, in her exercise clothes, sitting on a bench and panting heavily. She looked as if she had been jogging a-hundred miles. “Starla?!” called Lightning. Starla seemed so tuckered out she could barely stand tall. “H… H… Hi…” she said, but her voice sounded very dry. Luckily there was a water fountain nearby and Starla felt much better after a sip. “Starla, what’s going on?” asked Krysta “The training period ended hours ago.”

“Oh, I’m just doing extra training so I can earn my astronaut wings.”

Lightning knew this, Starfleet was called STAR-Fleet for a reason, just like they were all Space-ponies, but the code stated that new fighters weren’t permitted to venture off into space or go on other planetary missions until after long periods of intensive training and being approved by the proper authorities. Until then, they were confined as planetary forces.

“I’ve always dreamed of being going into space.” Starla said “I would stay up late after my bedtime and gaze up at the stars wondering when I would ever get to actually go up there and see it all at close-hand.”

“It really is beautiful.” Lightning said “I’ve been in space before, many times.”

Starla turned swiftly and gazed excitedly at him “You have? What’s it like?”

Lightning back away a bit as Starla inched closer in near desperation for him to say why. “Well, it’s um…uh…!”

Suddenly Starla realized “Wait, you’re not licensed yet, how did you learn to travel in space anyway?”

Lightning felt a small feeling of inner pain sting him at the very mention of it. “Lightning, are you okay?” Starla asked. Lightning snapped out of his trance. “I’m okay.” he simply said, and they soon found themselves gazing deeply into each other’s eyes. They both blushed and turned away swiftly.

Lightning quickly tried to change the subject. “So… um… is that why you signed up for Starfleet, you wanted to go into space?”

“Well, not entirely.” said Starla “I wanted to prove myself… to my father. He died, killed before my eyes... a long time ago.” Her voice sounded a little down.

Lightning and Krysta couldn’t help but wonder if every member of the force had a dead relative or some sort of similarity, but Starla assured them just she and Buddy Rose were the only ones they knew of so far. “Starla… I… I know it may be painful to ask but… how did your father…”

“…Die?” Starla cut in, and she didn’t mind talking about it…

Her mother was a Starfleet fighter, and a very fine one whom Starla looked up to. This was another one of her inspirations to join the force, but her father, he wouldn’t hear of it. “No daughter of mine is going get herself involved in wargames, and battling and all that stuff.”

Her father was a control-freak, who always had to have things his way, and claiming he was always right. Though he was never abusive or violent, he was rather stubborn, thoughtless, and not a very pleasant pony.

He and Starla’s mother often got into arguments when her father’s decisions were so much as even questioned, and he wasn’t any easier on Starla either. He would always make decisions for her, or talk for her, and or decide what she would do with her life. He really wanted Starla to grow up and take over his business selling old used wagons and parts, a life which Starla was not thrilled about.

“Wow, talk about a hard relationship.” Krysta said.

“Oh, that’s just the half of it.” said Starla.

She went on to say that her father was too fond of Starfleet, thinking they and their methods of dealing with bad guys were over-the-top. He didn’t even know his own wife was a Starfleet member until he found out some years after they were married and Starla was born, this was another one of their bigger arguments, being on the force, and blaming his wife for putting ideas into Starla’s head when really it wasn’t her fault.

Some villains Starfleet captured and brought to justice in hopes there was a chance to redeem themselves, but other non-living types like the Floralbite, which had no hearts or souls and could never be reformed or were too powerful to be contained, they were destroyed and for good reason; to stop them before they hurt any innocent beings…

...But as usual, her father’s stubbornness, ignorance and stupidity continued to show. “Why can’t we just talk with them, convince them to stop all this? I’m sure they’d listen.”

Lightning and Krysta felt sick to their stomachs at such stupidity. “I know he had good intentions but... reasoning with creatures THAT evil…?” groaned Lightning.

“That’s like trying to capture the sun, either incredibly difficult or impossible.” added Krysta. “Tell me about it…” said Starla “We even tried to tell him that Starfleet DID try to reason with some enemies, but it usually never worked out. Villains would refuse to listen or simply didn't wish to change their ways...

And then, one day when I was about ten years old... my father was about to awakened from his blindness, but at a terrible price.”

A band of evil bull-creatures from the planet Tauron had invaded Unicornicopia. As usual, Starfleet was called to arms to defend the world, including Starla’s mother. So she and her dad had to stay behind. However, they failed to get to shelters in time before the barriers went up and were locked outside, forcing themselves to run far from the battle area, except Starla’s father naively thought this was his big chance to prove himself right and how he could try reasoning with the bulls.

He approached one of the big brutes…

“Get outta my way, punk!” the creature growled.

Starla’s father, feeling a bit nervous and quaking in fear at the sight of the big beast, tried to reason with him. “Look... I-I-I... don’t know what your problem is, but maybe… maybe we can just talk this out or, even… negotiate… or… or…” but he soon realized his mistake, too late when the giant bull grabbed him and glared at him threateningly “…Or maybe I can do dis to ya!”

Starla watched in horror as her father were mercilessly beaten to death before her eyes, and she would had been next if Starfleet fighters hadn’t arrived at the last second to arrest the evil brute. Nevertheless, Starla’s father was dead, and the Starfleet fighters… they had more grave news for the devastated filly.

“They told me… my mother had been killed in action.”

Starla turned away, but it was easy to tell she was trying her hardest not to shed to tears, but to no avail.

Feeling very sorry and pitiful, Lightning offered a hankie from his pocket. “Thanks.” she peeped as she dried her eyes. “As stubborn as my dad was, and as much as I didn't approve of his attitude... he really didn’t deserve to die.”

Lightning, once again, felt that same pain from deep in his heart, as if Starla's pain was much like his in many ways, but again, he didn't wish to talk about it. "Starla, I really sorry. I should never have asked."

“No, it’s not your fault.” replied Starla, and she went on to explain that she lived at an orphanage until she got a job and was able to pay for school, and she trained herself constantly to get stronger and at age 14 came the Starfleet Academy where she trained for four straight years. Now she had a reason to fight, like most Starfleet fighters, she loathed and despised evil; she knew what it was capable of doing. If it could ruin her life and kill her family, she didn’t want to imagine how others would feel. She was fighting for them, as well as to avenge the fall of her parents.

“That is deep!” Krysta said. Lightning agreed, and he felt like he and Starla really had something in common right then and there. He continued to gaze at Starla still finding it hard to believe that someone so beautiful could have it so hard.

She turned to gaze back at him, and he turned away quickly hoping she hadn’t noticed, but she had and she giggled softly. Krysta could already tell they were starting to grow close. “Well, what do you know? Looks like Lightning may have found himself a soul-mate.”

“Aw, isn’t that cute…” called a voice! The gang looked and could see Rep-Stallion standing in the tree near the bench. “What are you doing here?” snapped Lightning.

“Like duh, I’m here to cause trouble and get energy for Titan.”

The alarms sounded...

And just as they practiced all the civilian ponies ran for the nearest shelters before Grand Ruler energized the force fields with his magic. Starla, Lightning and Krysta remained where they were. “We can take you on, and anything you might throw at us.” said Starla, but Rep casually was running his fingers across the blade of his scythe. “You know, for a bunch of punks who work out a lot you sure claim to be strong” he turned then glared at them sinisterly “… well I’m here to say… YOU’RE NOT!”

“Do the math, Rep-Stallion. There’s three of us and only one of you.” said Lightning. The girls nodded.

Rep leapt down from the tree and sniggered at them all. “Yeah, about that-- Who ever said you were going to fight against me alone?” Rep then reached behind him and held out a single ordinary rock he had found, and before the others could react, he reached into the pouch he was carrying, and threw a big cloud of dust all over a simple rock that was by his feet. “What’s he doing?” asked Krysta.

The rock began to glow magically as it grew in size and sprouted legs and arms, and an ugly face. Rep-Stallion laughed maliciously as the monster became complete.

The gang blinked their eyes once each, and Lightning and Krysta remembered how the Floralbite they faced was made of plants. “So that’s how they make monsters.” said Lightning

“You better believe it.” Rep said as he held up the pouch of dust “This dust is enchanted with Titan’s special magic. One sprinkle on any object will turn it into a huge beast to serve us and our conquest for power. Now go Strong Stone; get them!”

The monster pounded its huge feet which actually caused tremors which nearly knocked Lightning and Starla off their feet. They got up quickly and nodded at each. It was time to transform!

“Starfleet Magic!!”

“Power of Believing!”

“Power of Space!”

Once they were suited up, they scanned the monster with their visors and found his defense as well as his attacks were very high, as it was a rock, but its speed was slow. The first thing they had to was battle the monster and weaken it first, then it wouldn’t have enough strength to stand up to Lightning’s finisher. “Let’s go!” shouted Lightning. “Yes sir!” shouted Starla.

“I’m going in!” said Lightning as he charged forward to attack but Strong Stone, lived up to its name by simply raising its huge stone fists and slammed the ground causing another huge tremor and that shook Lightning causing him to lose his footing and fall.

Rep-Stallion laughed at him. “Too bad punk-- Hit him again Strong Stone!”

The monster acknowledged and began stomping towards Lightning. Lightning quickly got up and tried to kick the monster, but as expected, it was solid like the rock it was, and Lightning’s kick did nothing to it, except prompt the monster to punch him hard and side again and send him rolling along the ground and hitting a tree.

“…LIGHTNING!!” the girls cried. Lightning was okay, be he felt just a wee bit dizzy

Starla features hardened “My turn now! STAR SHOWER!”

Sadly, all her stars didn’t even tickle the monster. “Ugh! It’s no good, it’s too solid!”

“We have to keep trying. There’s got to be a way!” cried Krysta.

The monster was stomping towards them, and they began to run as the monster gave chase. Rep-Stallion laughed hard and wickedly. “I’m enjoying this…!”

Lightning finally got upright again and charged right at the tree knocking Rep off of it and down to the ground “Why you little runt!” he thundered “Just you wait until Strong Stone smashes you again!”

“Oh? Are you too afraid to fight us yourself so you have to let your monster do all the work?” Lightning snarled. “Bring it on!” snapped Rep-Stallion. Lightning knew his physical attacks wouldn’t work on Strong Stone, so he’d fight Rep instead. “I’ll show you who’s strong!” growled Rep as he swung his scythe, but Lightning dodged it perfectly, and back-kicked Rep hard from behind knocking him to the ground. “It takes more than just strength alone to be a good fighter.” Lightning said with a smirk. “It takes speed, strategy, and heart to go with it.”

Rep growled and continued to swing his scythe at him, “Tell that to Titan when I bring you to him in pieces!”

As their fight continued, Starla and Krysta were left to deal with Strong Stone. Even Krysta wasn’t able to life up something that heavy. Strong Stone also was able to keep them well within its sights and pounded the ground some more knocking them down with the tremors. The girls decided to fly in the air. “We’ll be safer up here.” said Starla “Um… I don’t think so.” cried Krysta “Look!”

Strong Stone looked way up, and opened its huge mouth firing blazing meteor stones straight up at them, which they barely dodged. “Lightning, we could use some help…!” shouted Krysta.

Down below, Lightning was engaged in a struggle holding back Rep-Stallion’s scythe with his arms. “Sorry, but I’m a little busy right now…” he shouted back to them. “Try to find the monster’s weakness, it’s got to have one somewhere!”

“Fat chance…!” growled Rep “SCYTHE SHOCK!” and Lightning was jolted away from him. “Give up yet?”

Lightning leapt back up growling angrily and looked ready for more.

Strong Stone continued to fire the meteors at the girls. The girls just continued to swerve and evade the shots, but they couldn’t keep it up. Somehow they just had to find out the monster’s weakness.

Then suddenly, as Krysta gazed into Strong Stone’s huge mouth, and scanned with her visor “Of course!” she said as she flew downward. “Krysta, No! What are you doing?” cried Starla.

“I have an idea. Cover me, keep it distracted!”

Krysta didn’t know what was going on, but she trusted Starla and flew closer towards the monster and began teasing him to chasing her. Flying one way, then another-- up and down, every way around-- She was pretty fast, and her small size made her hard to see and follow. Strong Stone was getting dizzy, but angry as well, and opened his huge mouth to fire another meteor at Krysta.

Starla saw this from where she was hovering “Now’s my chance; STAR BOW!” She pulled out a purple, solid, sharp-edged bow. Rep-Stallion saw this “Hey, what’s going on?”

“I think I know…” Lightning said.

“STARLIGHT ARROW!” Starla fired a glowing blast from her bow straight into Strong Stone’s huge mouth, finally causing real damage. Sparks and small explosions emitted from its body, and it groaned in pain. “No way!” cried Rep.

“That’s it!” said Lightning “If we can’t beat it on the outside, just blow up it up inside!”

Starla fired more arrows into the monster’s mouth, weakening it further, and Krysta used her magic to pick up large stones, tossing them inside. “It’s working, he’s getting weak!” cried Starla as her visor sensory showed the energy was dropping.

“Lightning, try it now!” shouted Krysta. Lightning agreed and got out the Rainbow Rod, and held it up high as it shimmered in the sunlight. He concentrate really hard as he held the rod up high as it began to glow…

“Powers of the rainbow, heed my call
I summon you now to make evil fall
Let goodness and justice triumph in might
I summon now… the rainbow’s light!”

“…SPECTRUM STREAM!”

The magic flew straight down Strong Stone’s throat, blowing it up in a powerful explosion, and into a pile of pebbles. “No! I don’t believe it!” snarled Rep-Stallion

“We did it!” hollered Lightning. The girls cheered for joy and then Lightning turned to face Rep-Stallion, “Your turn now…!” but before he could act, Rep-Stallion decided to split. “I’ll be back! Just you wait!” then he vanished and was gone.

Lightning growled in frustration that Rep had escaped. The important thing was that everything was okay now. No serious damage had been done to the park. The force fields were lowered and everyone was allowed back outside again.

“An extraordinary performance, Rep-Stallion.” mocked Mysterious “And all you return with is a tangled tail.” added Dementia.

“You guys take that back!” shouted Rep.

“QUIET! ALL OF YOU!” shouted Titan. The minions quieted down and bowed apologetically. Even though Rep-Stallion had only gathered a little energy, Titan was pleased nonetheless. “Every little bit counts. It only makes me stronger.” he hissed “And the day draws near when I shall have all that I need.”

Lightning walked Starla home to her home in Rainbow City. Starla thanked Lightning and Krysta for all they did. “You did well too, Starla. I can see you with astronaut wings yet.”

Starla smiled “Thanks.” she said and she pecked Lightning on his cheek before she headed inside. Lightning’s face turned bright red. Krysta giggled “What’s the matter, Lightning?” she teased. Lightning could barely speak and just stuttered and slurred words all the way home.

That night, before going to bed, Lightning wrote his report…

“Although we’ve have once again thwarted another attack, it cannot be denied that Titan and his followers are proving to be pitiless enemies that will go to any lengths to fulfill their dark ambitions. At this point, until we can study more about them and their evil powers, there is little any of us can do but rest, wait, and maintain constant alert for oncoming attacks that can and will occur as this war continues.

Facing the strong stone has giving me the realization and intention to increase the effort of my physical training to improve my ever-growing strength in battle while also keeping my mind focussed.

Excessive exercise is not beneficial for anyone and can prove to be quite dangerous to one’s health, but it can also not be ignored that in battle strength is not necessarily everything necessary to win, but also the knowledge and wisdom that goes with it.”

He signed his name, then sent the report through the magic mailbox slot which would send it all the way to Grand Ruler’s floating palace in the sky.

After that, he hopped into bed, and turned out the lights and dreamt of all the adventures he would have another day.

(Promo)

In our next episode; a rainy day turns out to be an opening opportunity when Mysterious launches a new plan to gain energy for Titan, and demonstrates his own uniquely made monsters that are unlike others Lightning and his friends have faced.

What is Mysterious’ plan, and how will Lightning and friends be able to face this new type of monster?

Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic!”

(Next Episode: “Wetter Works”)

Episode 5: Wetter Works

EPISODE FIVE

Today it was raining in Unicornicopia. It was a nice calm and cheerful rain the Grand Ruler had conjured to give everything a nice wash down and water the fields and trees. He wouldn’t stop the shower for anything, not until it was properly time to do so. The best part was some alicorns who worked outdoors were given the day off. Lightning, unfortunately was not one of them and still had his duties to do as a community worker.

As he dressed in his raingear, preparing to go out, Krysta was hovering by the window. “I hate the rain.” she grumbled. She didn’t really hate the rain all that much. It was just that she was small making the raindrops large enough to drench her down, and she especially hated it when her fairy wings got soaked and heavy, she couldn’t fly until they were dried.

Lightning thought that was funny and teased “Ever thought of using an umbrella?” Krysta sighed and shook her head. “I don’t like umbrellas either. I get lost inside of them.”

Lightning knew just what to do about that. All Krysta needed was an umbrella the right size. That’s when he gave her a playful little umbrella he got in a glass of punch with a piece of cherry and orange the last time he was at Cookie Dough’s. “I saved it just for you.”

Krysta really loved it and twirled round and around with it. “Thanks a lot, but next time save me the fruit too?”

Mysterious stood before Titan with an idea to propose. “My lord, I have plan that will not only gather you vast amounts of energy than our previous attempts, but perhaps it shall serve well in luring Starfleet into an area suitable for my battle requirements, giving me just the edge I need to destroy them for good.”

“Interesting…!” Titan said “Very well, Mysterious, you may go, but be warned, my patience is beginning to wear out. I want to escape from this dark prison, and I want to escape soon, understand?”

Mysterious bowed to his master. “You shall my lord Titan. You shall.”

Several ponies walking out in the rain wearing rainwear and holding umbrellas in their gloves, many of the young fillies and colts couldn’t help but splash and kick in the puddles.

Lightning and Krysta met up with Artie who was walking outdoors to gain inspiration for a rainy picture he wanted to paint, and Rhymey came skipping merrily. He seemed to be the happiest one in the rain among anyone as he sang…

“It’s raining, it’s pouring.
The old stallion’s snoring.
He went to bed with a cold in his head
And he didn’t get up in mo-ho-horning.”

“You seem cheerful today.” Artie said.

Rhymey nodded…

“Yes…
I guess.
But I still brought my rainwear and umbrella.
So I can be outside and not be a wet fella.”

Even Professor Brain was in the park testing his new rain gauge. “Ahh, Satisfactory, most satisfactory…” he gleamed. “With enough of this water, I should be able to complete my newest experiment.”

“What kind of experiment is that?” asked Krysta, but Brain thought it rather complicated for the others to understand just yet. “Can we lend you help in any way, Professor?” asked Lightning

“I feel that… em… may not be necessary, my good yellow.” answered Brain, “But if I require assistance I shall inform you.” Then he went off to find a spot where it was raining harder to gather more water leaving the others in the park.

The rain just felt so wonderful and warm even, a lot of the ponies passing by had smiles on their faces, but Krysta was still complaining a little. Even with her little umbrella, and her little poncho, she still found it hard to battle against the raindrops “Blech! Why does the rain always make things so hard for me?”

Rhymey, approached her and recited form one of his recent poems.

“While it’s hard on you with no doubt,
There are things about the rain I must point out.
The flowers and plants and even the trees
They need the rain water to grow with ease.
And though the rain may be drippy and wet
There are still fun ways to have in it yet.
You can splash in the puddles, catch drops on your tongue
But the best part of all, you can sing a nice song.”

Music began to play as Rhymey held his umbrella nicely, and even tap-danced as he splashed in the puddles and the others joined him too as they all sang a song about how much they liked the rain…

(Skip to 0:47)

As Rhymey sang, he began to tap dance along the sidewalk, off and on the curb, twirling his umbrella around, and even flipping. The other boys joined him in the dance.

The boys made one big splash in the puddles for a finish, and Krysta was actually starting to feel better, at least until she got hit by a huge drop right in her face. “Ugh! Plech!” she spluttered. She wasn’t all that wet and her wings didn’t get hit.

The boys chuckled softly.

Meanwhile, there was Bluesville. It wasn’t called that because anyone was sad or weepy. Just for the color blue for it was also the home of the main-waterworks; the very source of all the clear drinking water for the entire kingdom. Technicians and workers helped keep the place shining bright, and made sure nothing bad happened to the water.

What no one noticed was Mysterious, being a shadow creature, could slink about the place while hiding in dark places, and even under the doors without being seen. He peeked up from the floor, and then he saw the main power-switch that controlled all the power in the building, and he slinked along the wall and turned it off which turned out all the lights, making it pitch black, and impossible to see inside for all the technicians, and when the emergency lights came on, the technicians were all tied up and gaged with dark wraps, and Mysterious was in control of things now. He snickered sinisterly as he gazed upon the large tanks of water “And now to work.” and using his shadow-magic he conjured a small vortex causing the water to flow into the vortex, instead of passing through the rest of the works to supply the kingdom. He would transfer the water straight to Titan and use it to convert and harness more power and energy. “So much power, so little time.” he said to himself. Then he began to ponder way to maybe lure Lightning and friends to him.

And as he knew it was raining outside, he got a nasty idea.

The rain continued to fall, and Lightning and friends went to Cookie Dough’s for their lunch. Professor Brain was there, and offered them to sit with him. Krysta finally dried off her long blonde hair on a napkin. “Cheer up, Krysta. It won’t rain forever.” said Artie. “Artie is right, my dear.” added Brain “We should all be patient as we can be and make the most of things.” He said all this while he scribbled a formula onto his own napkin for his experiment. “Ah, yes.” He almost seemed in rather a hurry to finish his lunch, and for good reason. He was planning to head to the waterworks in Bluesville as he required some help from the technicians there for the final piece of his puzzle. “Boy, he sure does burry himself in his work.” Lightning whispered to the others who agreed with him.

Suddenly, it began to grow darker outside; much, much darker. “What’s happening?” asked Artie. “Curious! Moist curious.” muttered Brain “It shouldn’t be getting dark at this hour.”

The gang headed outside, and noticed the clouds were getting darker, and thunder and lightning began to strike. This was very abnormal, for the Grand Ruler never allowed this type of weather, at least not in this particular manner.

Rhymey felt a shiver crawl down his back…

“I feel that something is not right,
Just who or what has turned out the light?
Everything’s nearly dark as night.”

Lightning and Krysta had a good idea what was going on, but the warning alarms hadn’t sounded yet, so it wasn’t confirmed if it was Titan or not. Still, the gang agreed to investigate. “But where do we start looking?”

Brain had an idea, and it involved his experiment. “I thought you said it was incomplete?” said Krysta. “It is…” answered Brain, “But in desperate times… uh, such as now-- will force us to take drastic measures.”

Reaching into the pocket of his raincoat, he pulled out a small object. “This, my dear friends, is my latest invention; The Elemental Radar Receptor in Finding Interesting Characters--Terrific, for short.” The others all blinked in confusion, until Brain explained it was a radar tracking device that could detect elements, and other sources of energy and magic. It was still in development, and hadn’t been tested yet, but if it worked, it would allow them to find the source of the reason why the sky was growing dark.

“Well, why did you want water for it?” asked Artie. “My dear fellow…” said Brain “Such a delicate device like this should be made stronger to withstand damage. It was my hope of making a coating to make it water-resistant.”

“So as long as we don’t get it wet it’ll be fine?” Lightning asked.

“Correct!”

The rest of the gang felt they had just had a big waste of time, but they headed off nonetheless

Krysta could hardly keep her umbrella up, and was starting to get wet again; at least her wings were different and could work in the rain. “How much further, Brain…?” she asked.

The signal seemed to be coming from Bluesville. “Ah ha! Satisfactory…! Most Satisfactory...” Brain simple said. “The signal is getting stronger in detecting abnormal activity within this village. Follow me.”

Bluesville sure had a lot of ponds, rivers, and lakes, and was even near the ocean itself as it was the water source of the kingdom, but suddenly, the radar shorted out. “Oh, dear, I was afraid this would happen.” said Brain “The air is positively dripping with moisture. There is nothing more I can do at this point.”

“Where do we look now?” asked Artie.

Krysta then noticed Lightning was looking away from the group. “What wrong, Lightning…?” she asked, and then she saw it too. Lightning was staring at the waterworks building, exactly where brain wanted to go in first place. Yet, the water wasn’t flowing very well, as if it were being blocked. The clouds above the building were darker, and stormier than anywhere else. “Curious! Most curious.” said Brain.

“If the trouble isn’t there, I don’t know where it could be.” said Lightning, and they all headed inside, where they found it was dark, and pretty much deserted. At least the emergency lights were on.

“Hello…?” Artie called out.

“Is there anyone at all?
Please answer our call!” added Rhymey.

As they trekked deeper, they found some of the guards, literally, laying down on the job. Krysta could recognize that their rest was not natural. “Their magic and energy must’ve been drained.”

The sound of sinister snickers followed that statement. “You are correct, young fairy.”

“That voice!” snapped Lightning “Come on out, Mysterious! We know it’s you.”

“Do you now?” Mysterious hissed as he appeared before the intake tanks, “And do you also know why I lured you and your little colleagues here for, Lightning?”

Lightning gritted his growled angrily, but before he could say anything, Mysterious merely stepped aside revealing his vortex taking all the water away. “Even if I fail to capture you, I believe Lord Titan will find all this water as valuable as I have.”

“Huh?” the others all wondered.

“Oh, yes…” replied Mysterious “For you haven’t yet seen the type of monsters that I am able to create.” and he threw the magic dust into the tank. The water began to bubble and stir and it began to rise up and take the shape of monster with many watery tentacles-- A monster that was actually made of water.

“Incredible!” remarked Brain.

“Now’s not the time for that, Professor.” snapped Lightning “We got work to do.” The others agreed.

“STARFLEET MAGIC!!”

Lightning: “Power of Believing!”

Artie: “Power of Art!”

Rhymey: “I summon within, the Power of Wind!”

Brain, though not a fighter, having no armor, and knowing fully well that civilians were forbidden to enter battles unless of extreme emergency, he promised to find some way to help out. He usually always did…

“WARD SWORD!” shouted Rhymey.

“SUPER STAFF!” shouted Artie, and he summoned forth a long staff he wielded like a pro. “Not bad for a mild mannered artist.”

Mysterious was not amused. “Seize them Vapourizer!” he commanded, and the monsters breathed out a thick cloud of fog. “Look out!” cried Krysta, and before long the whole place was coated in a fog so think everyone was lost and couldn’t see where anyone or anything was. “Oh, my!” cried Brain “My spectacles are steamed up. I can’t see a thing!”

Mysterious laughed triumphantly, until he found himself consumed in the fog. “I… I can’t see!” he growled. “It looks like you didn’t think this through, Mysterious.” Lightning said “Now we’re all lost in here, but my team has the better advantage.” With that, he Artie and Rhymey activated their visors’ infrared vision to help them see through the mist. The monster, however, was able to see them through the mist as well and squirt powerful pulses of water at the gang. Even Krysta got hit and was totally drenched. “Pah…! Ack…! I told you I hated this kind of water!” she groaned as she tried to shake herself dry.

Rhymey could see someone Mysterious through his visor and lunged at him with his sword, but Mysterious quickly evaded the attack, and again, and again each time Rhymey swung at him. “Fool! The darkness here give me the edge I need to outmaneuver your every move.” he mocked.

Artie slowly crept up behind hoping to catch Mysterious off guard, but Mysterious knew he was there and swerved out of the way causing Artie to miss.

“This is getting us nowhere.” called Lightning as he stumbled around trying to find his way through the fog. “I say, this is most confusing!” cried Brain.

Artie had an idea, and began to spin and wave his spear around, propeller to blow the fog away. “That did it!” he cried for joy, but as the lifted, he and Rhymey saw the monster gazing fright at them from his tank. The monster fired more water pulses at them which they dodged, causing the shots to miss and actually crack the walls. Lightning was very annoyed with all this and began to charge straight for the tank, only to be halted by Mysterious. “Going somewhere?” he hissed. Lightning growled and tried to push Mysterious aside forgetting that he was a shadow, and couldn’t be touched as easily when surrounded by darkness. He passed right through him and hit the wall. “Ugh! Why is it I always hit my head first?”

Mysterious moved in to capture him. “Relax, I am certain Lord Titan will make you feel better one he absorbs all your energy.” but Krysta, completely dry, swooped in and buzzed around Mysterious’ face. “Leave him alone!” she growled. Mysterious growled and grunted as he tried to swat her away, which gave Lightning a chance to break away.

Artie and Rhymey attacked Vapourizer as best they could, but their weapons passed right through him, and their other attacks didn’t damage him at all. The monster was made of water, and that was to be expected.

“There’s nothing more we can do.
Our attacks just go right through.”

The monster continued to fire more water pulses, which the boys dodged, and Mysterious finally managed to swat Krysta out of his way, sending her right into an open drum of water. She poked her head out, panting angrily and shouted “I CAN’T TAKE ANYMORE WATER!!”

Mysterious now had Lightning backed up against the wall. “Now where were we…?” he asked, “Ah, yes, we were on our way back to Titan.” Lightning looked nervous but then grinned cheekily. “Let me get the lights first.” He said and the quickly reached to his right and flicked on the main power switch, which turned the lights back on. “Ah, Light!” cried Mysterious “I’m exposed, my powers won’t work properly! I’m vulnerable to attacks.”

“Thanks for telling us your weakness.” said Lightning and he punched him hard across the face, sending him across to Artie who swatted him hard with his staff sending him over to Rhymey who gave him a good slash with his sword and sending him crashing into the wall. The boys stood together “Give it up, Mysterious! We’ve exposed you and your weakness to the light.”

The room was getting brighter by the minute. “I’m… getting… weak…!” Mysterious groaned, and he decided to retreat before he became completely defenseless. “That’s one down and one to go.” said Artie.

They turned back to face Vapourizer. The monster hissed and growled and was preparing itself for one final washout attack, when suddenly it began to shiver, much to the others confusion. Then, “Look…!” cried Artie, “The water… in the tank… it’s freezing.”

The water was slowly turning into ice, and Vaporizer was beginning to freeze up, until it was nothing but a solid frozen statue. “Lightning…” Brain called out “This is your chance, try and finish it off now!”

Lightning decided to trust him and got out the Rainbow Rod, and began to charge it!

“Powers of the rainbow, heed my call
I summon you now to make evil fall
Let goodness and justice triumph in might
I summon now… the rainbow’s light!

…SPECTRUM STREAM!”

The magic flew straight at the frozen monster, and vaporized it instantly and calmly rather than in an explosion. With the monster was gone. The power and systems were reenergized. The water was flowing normally again, and the other ponies who were attacked were waking up after a long rest. The best part of all-- since Mysterious had left, the dark clouds lifted, and it was raining normally again. That’s when Brain came towards the others, “Oh! That was a stupendous performance, Lightning. Bang on!” he complimented.

“But, what happened?” asked Lightning.

Brain explained that after the fog lifted away, and his glasses became clear so he could see what he was doing. He noticed the intake tanks where the monster was sitting had temperature controls, and he found the console, and turned the temperature below freezing. This way, the monster would freeze, be weakened, unable to move, and have a solid surface to strike.

“Professor, you’re a genius.” said Artie.

“And you saved all of us.” added Rhymey.

Brain bowed thankfully. “Thank you, gentlemen…”

“Uh… excuse me…?” called Krysta “But would someone mind helping me out of here!” She kept trying and trying to escape the water drum, but even her wings were so drenched, from being dipped in that much water, they didn’t work.

The boys couldn’t help but laugh.

“So… it seems our enemies managed to defeat us again.” Titan said “I am beginning to grow displeased of this.”

“Poor Mysterious…” Rep-Stallion mocked. “Guess you got all wet and washed out.” added Dementia. Mysterious just clenched his fists and growled furiously.

“However…” Titan said “You have fulfilled part of your promise. Thanks to you, Mysterious, all this energy you have given me has greatly increased my power and weakened the seal immensely. You have done well.”

Mysterious bowed, “Thank you my lord.” and he cast a cheeky stare at the others, making them feel insulted now and determined to prove their worth more than ever the next time.

The rain was starting to die down. Obviously, the Grand Ruler was busy clearing the skies after a good long day of showers. Brain Artie and Rhymey were stopping by Lightning’s place in White Village. They were about to knock on the door when they heard the sound a tiny little sneeze…

“Ah… Ah… AH-CHOO!”

And then another…

“…AH-CHOO!”

The second sneeze shook the roof a bit, causing a few puddles up on top to splash the others below. The door was open, and there was Penny looking after poor little Krysta, who had caught a small cold from being drenched so much. “I must say, I’ve never had a fairy for a patient before.” said Penny. “Lucky you…” Krysta groaned sarcastically. Her poor little nose was all red and clogged, and she was shivering even while in her little bed moved near the fireplace.

Rhymey came over to see how Krysta as feeling and hoped she’d get well soon.

“Thank you, Rhymey.” Krysta said with her nose still stuffed.

And Artie came over to show Krysta a painting he made just for her, as a bit of a joke, but also because she inspired him. He pulled down the cloth to reveal a painting of what he called “Fairy in the Rain.”

Everyone else couldn’t help but giggle at the joke, but Krysta didn’t think it was funny. “Oh! Take that away from me!” she groaned. “Just looking at all that water is enough to make me… eh… eh… AH-CHOO…! Sneeze!”

The others held in the urge to giggle. For a tiny fairy, Krysta sure had a lot of air in her.

“By the way Professor, How did your experiments go?” asked Lightning. Brain explained that he was certain that he had perfected the radar. Now it was water proof and would stand up to most impacts, or extreme temperatures. “Are you sure of that?” asked Artie.

“Oh, quite certain, quite.” answered Brain, but Krysta suddenly sneezed again “…AH-AAAAHH-CHOO!!” Her sneeze was so strong it nearly shook the whole house, and the radar exploded right in Brain’s face. He really looked silly with all that soot in his face, his mane messed up, and his glasses dangling on one side of his head. “Well…” he muttered, “Now who’s a fool?”

The others, even Krysta, couldn’t help but laugh.

That night, before going to bed, Lightning wrote his report, and Krysta was still sneezing, in her bed, in her little house in the wall.

“At this point we have all discovered the different types of monsters Titan’s minions send after us-- each with their own special abilities that will extreme require precision as well as our powers and abilities to defeat.

Krysta’s cold seems to be improving…”

At that point, Krysta let out another little sneeze from within her mouse-hole house. Lightning couldn't help but snicker softly, and then went back to his report.

“…I have also come to understand that one cannot just change how someone thinks or feels when it comes to things they may or may not like, and that sometimes it is better to be understanding of others for their choices instead of badgering and forcing other beliefs on them.

This makes me sometimes wonder about Titan…

What does he truly believe in?
What is it that drives him into attacking us mercilessly and all other that came before us?

Nevertheless, the fight must continue if there is to be any hope of preservation for Unicornicopia, as well as the rest of the dimensional universe.”

He signed his name, then sent the report through the magic mailbox slot which would send it all the way to Grand Ruler’s floating palace in the sky.

After that, he hopped into bed, and turned out the lights and just before settling down, he could see a small speck of golden light traveling across the sky. Lightning could tell it was Grand Ruler, using his powers to get rid of all the rain clouds and letting the stars shine through.

Then he snuggled down into bed and dreamt of all the adventures he would have another day.

(Promo)

In our next episode, Krysta is feeling a bit glum and Lightning tells his friends why leading to the story of how he and Krysta met. Meanwhile, Titan takes advantage of Krysta’s troubles and sends one of his puppets to set a trap for Lightning and his friends using Krysta as bait, and two new creatures appear in the midst of whole thing.

Will Titan succeed in his plan, and who are these two new ponies?

Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic!”

(Next Episode: “Double Trouble”)

Episode 6: Double Trouble

EPISODE SIX

Titan had come up with a plan of his own to help weaken the seal round his planet faster, increase his powers quicker, and possibly cripple Starfleet, and neither he nor his minions would even have to create a monster this time.

“What are we gonna do?” asked Rep Stallion.

Titan explained that from what they knew, of all the Starfleet members so far Lightning was the one who always delivered the finishing attack that destroyed all their monsters. This made his minions catch on fast. “So it’s Lightning we must focus on the most.” said Dementia.

“Yes” Titan said “Without him, his Starfleet unit should be easy to overpower. Not to mention the astonishing might he possesses would make a fine increase to my own power.”

The minions prepared to leave and capture Lightning, but Titan said “No! I have a better idea.” he said. The minions were confused “But my lord, what other possible course of action should we peruse then?” Mysterious asked.

He viewed images of Krysta. The minions caught on with Titans plan, and everyone shared a malicious laugh.

It was another typical day in Unicornicopica, and Lightning and Krysta had gone back to the Library to catch up on their studying and research. Krysta, however, looked pretty glum about something as she looked through many, many books. “You are troubled, Krysta?” asked Inquerius “Is there nothing I can do to help you find what you seek?” Krysta simply smiled and said, “…It’s alright.” and then she would flutter off to search for another book.

Inquerius could still feel Krysta’s sadness and decided to ask Lightning about it. He was over at a table with most of his friends, Buddy Rose, Artie, Rhymey; even Starla was with them, all catching up on their studies, research, or just leisurely reading. “Lightning, have you not noticed Krysta seeming rather sad today?”

Lightning hesitated for a moment and then finally told them that this was normal for Krysta “She usually gets a little blue from time to time because she’s homesick.”

“Homesick?” asked Buddy. “Well, why doesn’t she just go visit her home then?”

“That’s just the problem…” Lightning said “She doesn’t know where her home is. She doesn’t remember what planet she came from or what her life was like before she met me. I don’t know where she comes from either. That’s why she sticks with me. We’ve been combing through the archives but we haven’t been able to find a thing about Fairies like her. Apparently they’re very scarce and not easy to come across to study around these parts.”

The others all felt very concerned.

“Being lost and forgetful is really bad.
It’s no wonder Krysta looks so sad.” said Rhymey.

“Lightning… how did you and Krysta meet anyway?” asked Artie. Hearing that made Lightning look pretty down and blue. “Lightning, are you okay?” asked Starla.

“I’m alright…” Lightning answered “It’s just… I really don’t like talking about this, it brings back horrible painful memories to me, but I guess I should tell you anyway.”

The others listened carefully as Lightning began to explain. “First off, you know that Unicornicopia isn’t the only place where ponies like us live.”

The others knew this all so well…

Unicornicopia was the birthplace of the original ancestors of Space-Alicorns, and the main base of Starfleet, but regardless, the planet had often suffered from the potential danger of becoming overcrowded, but all was not lost. The Grand Ruler had ultimately decided that as they were Space Ponies, and Space fighters, it was time to live up to their true name.

“The time has come for many of us to grow up and leave our cradle behind; to go forth and claim our place in outer space. There is a whole universe waiting to be explored, and we won’t discover it just by staying put.”

So, several Starfleet forces and civilians who were normal astronauts set off to explore the vast regions of dimensional space, locating other planets suitable to live on, or to explore and observe. By doing this they met other races of creatures. Some were bad and some were nice, some to help and some to fight.

By expanding their horizons, the space ponies found new allies with friendly races and helped to protect them from evil forces, and other Starfleet fighters would seek out the home planets of potential evil forces, and be ready to stall them if attempted to cause any danger. This way, if any chaos was to commence, at least it would not spread so easily throughout the galaxy and harm innocent planets. It wasn't always easy.

Still, some Space ponies preferred to live in peace and quiet, away from all the fighting. So they would live on their new worlds in quiet, live their lives and raise their families. Starfleet would often come to provide watch over these vulnerable worlds in case of enemy attack, but only if the people desired so. They would not be held against their will. Most planets were protected, while very few were not.

The others were all aware of this. “So, you’re from one of those other planets?” Starla asked.

Lightning nodded “I was born on the planet Harmonious.”

“I’ve heard of that planet.” Artie said “It’s supposed to be the most blissful known planets in the galaxy.”

“It was…” Lightning said, and he explained everything…

*Lightning’s POV*

According to my people's history, it all began a few centuries ago.

My family’s ancestors’ normal astronauts who sought to learn more of the Dimensional Universe we lived in. With Grand Ruler’s blessing, they left Unicornicopia to explore, and eventually found distant planet they thought would be peaceful to live in, and for all that time, it was. So blissful, beautiful, and prosperous, it was named Harmonious.

It had lush meadows and fields, and beautiful clear lakes as beautiful as one would imagine. My kind had lived for so long and lived in such peace and harmony, that they even stopped using magic all together, and eventually all the magic within them seemed to seep out of their bodies leaving them magicless, and all their future offspring would be born the same.

*POV Ends*

“So that’s why you can’t use magic. You weren’t born with any.” said Buddy Rose.

“That’s right…” said Lightning “Except for the uniforce and the Rainbow Rod, I haven’t any normal magic like you guys have at all, and I probably never will. That’s why my strength and speed are important to me.”

He continued on with his story…

*POV Resumes*

My life on Harmonious was beautiful and happy. I had two wonderful parents, a kind and caring grandfather who taught me how to fish, survive in the wild, and how to make fires and stuff. I had lots of friends too and I just loved playing with them every day at school, in the playgrounds.

Of course it was strange to me that I had a golden horn when nobody else on the planet did. Still, it didn’t seem to matter to me, or to anyone. Life was wonderful...

(3:40 to 6:00)

But one day, when I was five years old, the planet was suddenly invaded-- attacked by an army of swamp monsters from another world, led by a giant serpent-like monster. She was about twenty feet in length and she had huge teeth, razor-sharp fins, and red burning eyes. That demon tore through the villages as if she were searching for something, horribly demolishing and slaughtering everything in her path.

Sadly, Harmonious was one of few worlds not protected by Starfleet, as our elders believed we wouldn’t need such protections since our world was so blissful. With no magic or forces to defend ourselves, and no way to send for help from Starfleet, my home world was doomed.

I remember seeing all the buildings burn in flames, and the planet itself began to rumble violently. It was going to explode, and the evil serpent and her army decided to retreat while they still had time.

As the planet begun to breakup and combust, Most of the ponies were dead from being slaughtered and the rest were all burning away with the destruction of the planet, unable to get to safety in time. My grandfather and father were both killed, and my mother was badly hurt, but in her dying moments she had just enough strength to send me through a dimensional warp-gate the invaders had left behind.

It cast me off the planet to another planet near ours. I remember begging my mother not to do this and to come with me, but she couldn’t, no one could. There was only enough power for one, and after that, it had vanished.

I found myself flying across space on a magical pathway connecting both worlds. I landed safely on the planet I was sent too, and when I looked up I saw in the outmost horror and heartbreak; my beautiful home planet exploded in a mighty big bang. The force was so strong that is shook the planet I stood on, and when all had quieted down, there was no sign of Harmonious anywhere.

“…NO!!”

*POV Ends*

Lightning’s body was shaking as he clenched his teeth and shut his eyes tightly trying to hold in his emotions, while the others were all totally speechless. “You were only five?!” cried Starla.

Lightning nodded sadly “Yes.”

Buddy Rose and Starla felt like their traumas of losing their families were nothing compared to this. At least they were still given chances, but Lightning-- he had nothing at all! Not a single one of them could imagine how traumatizing it could be to see your whole world blown to dust before your eyes.

Lightning gathered himself together and continued his story…

*POV Resumes*

(Start at 2:50)

And so, I was alone...

I had no home, no family, no friends, and no magic I could use to help me survive.

I was forced to wander from planet to planet in search for a new home, but I found no such place. Everywhere I went, I was unaccepted because I couldn’t do magic, or others being scared of me because I had a golden horn, but I didn’t know why at the time. No would give me a chance. No one would let me explain myself, or answer me as to why they were afraid of me. So I pretty much learned how to take care myself, and remembering all the things my grandfather taught me, I soon became adept at fire-making, and fishing. I even taught myself how to properly use my wings and fly.

Two years later, when I was seven, my travels took me to another planet. One day. I was in a forest snacking on some fruit I picked from a tree, when suddenly I heard the sound of a tiny little voice screaming “HELP ME! HELP ME!” I followed the sound of the scream, and I saw a tiny little girl with wings; a fairy, trapped in a spider web and about to be devoured by a huge spider. I acted fast and crushed the spider with a stone, and then I tore up the web, releasing the fairy, and before she could overdramatically thank me, she noticed, “Wow! I’ve seen Alicorns before, but not one like you.”

I didn’t know how to take that, but I asked “What’s your name?”

“I don’t know-- Kry...sta… something… I just don’t remember.”

I noticed the fairy had a small bump on her little head. She obviously had amnesia, and could only remember a portion of her real name. So we were both lost and alone together now, but it became clear that I had made a friend.

Krysta and I wandered between planets together, hoping to find answers her past and a home for me. We did discover that Krysta was able to lift upwards of three-thousand times her own weight, equaling more than 650 pounds! It was incredible that someone so tiny could be so strong.

Then, one day, about three weeks later from whence we had met, we found ourselves on a planet filled with perilous dangers, and fierce beasts around every corner. We tried to run but soon were cornered by a huge gang of monsters. With no hope of fighting them off we would had surely been killed, but that’s when he came. The Grand Ruler, the legendary Tri-Horned alicorn. We watched as he used his powerful magic and warrior skills to drive off the monsters.

Then he turned to face us. He could see that Krysta and I were hopelessly lost, starving and in need of a good home. He also seemed interested in my golden horn and could sense that I couldn’t do magic like he could. He kindly reached out to me and said “Come with me to my world, you’ll be safer there.”

I was skeptical at first, but after he just saved my life and was kindly reaching out to me the way no one else would, I accepted, and we came to Unicornicopia. The Grand Ruler took me into his home in his floating palace. He was like a foster father to me, and I longed to pay him back for being so generous, and said he had decided to take me on his personal and private apprentice. He would train me himself. “A boy like you needs a master. Someone who can guide to a proper path. Let me train you, and I promise you will discover that you are capable of doing far more than you believe you can.”

For several years he looked out for me, he gave me normal schooling, but most of the time he put me hard to work, building up my muscles, working on my speed, dexterity, and other things through rigorous and excessive exercises; much like how I was told they do at the Starfleet academies.

I would dig through the grounds with my bare hands. Jog while carrying heavy solid objects. Go through workouts. I even went through a series of tasks with my master. I had to take a blue flag from his, last fifteen minutes in a spar against him without getting exhausted, chase him through an obstacle course, so many challenges; I felt he was trying to kill me. He even acted hard on me as test of my patience and courage to stand up to him and give me confidence. Whenever I screwed up or complained, he really let me have it!

“Enough, I can’t do it. I just can’t!”

“That’s not the right attitude, you’ll never get this flag from me unless you learn to think more positively and stop reacting to everything I do!”

After a long day of training, I was usually pretty worn out.

“You were slower this time, and your strength is pitiful. You disappoint me, Lightning.”

“I disappoint myself, master.”

Even during meal times, I was so tired and sore I could hard grab my utensils properly, and would try and eat with my hands, but my master angrily slapped plate away scolding me. “If you wish to eat like a dog I will serve you from a trough, but I doubt I am training a dog.”

At times I felt I was losing my patience with his harshness, and there were times I wanted to give up, but strangely there was another part of me that was more determined than ever to prove myself worthy of my teacher and foster father, whom I owed my life to. Krysta gave me confidence too, telling me never to give up and that I was one of the bravest creatures she ever knew.

So I kept on training, and as the years went by I began to improve immensely. I found that the training had made me stronger and faster than ever. I could break solid boulders in my bare hands, fly and faster than a projectile, and even leap great heights and distances without the use of my wings and I could lift up very large and heavy objects that I couldn’t lift before. I even began to succeed in my tasks. I got the blue flag, I lasted more than twenty minutes in a spar, and I managed to keep up with Grand Ruler through all the obstacle courses.

He was very proud of me, and we continued to train on. He even showed taught me how to dance, all kinds of dances; Ballet, tap, step, breakdance. That I really enjoyed, and it helped me to work on my footing and increase my evasiveness.

Then, finally, it had been well over ten years, and my basic training and education were completed. The Grand Ruler decided it was time for me let me start living on my own on the planet below and my new life began.

*POV Ends*

“Now here I am. I have new home, a new life, but no matter what. Krysta and I remained inseparable. I made a promise that I’d help her find her home and help her discover who she really is, and I’ll never give up.”

The others thought that was a very sad, yet sweet story. Still, the others now saw Lightning in a whole new way and felt sorry for his loses, but Lightning assured them it was okay. “I only wish there were a way I could help Krysta more.”

“You do…?
Aw… us too.” said Rhymey, and the others all nodded in agreement.

Krysta was sitting outside on a window ledge. She felt she had searched every book on worlds, locations, and histories, even all the books on fairies she could find, but no information that could tell her what she needed to know. “Who am I?” she asked herself for the millionth time. She began to have that sick feeling of losing all hope to ever finding her home and regaining her memories. She wasn’t really trying to complain or make others pity her. She loved being in Unicornicopia, and she loved being around Lightning and his friends, but sometimes she did feel out of place, being the only fairy in a world of all unicorns. Sometimes not knowing where she came from really got to her…

She felt like singing her blues away...

(Skip to 1:16)

Krysta sighed softly, but then something bright caught her eye. A small glowing ball of light floated softly around here, and said to her, “Do you wish to seek your true roots? Do you wish to know the answers you seek…?”

“Yes… I do.” answered Krysta. “Then follow the orb of light, and you will find what you seek.” With that, the ball of light began to fly away. Krysta couldn’t but feel that voiced sounded so familiar, but did it really know how to help her find her home? Krysta couldn’t’ pass up this chance, and followed the ball.

Pretty soon, the others had finished their reading, and most of the others left to get back to work and home. Lightning and Starla put their books back and looked around, “Krysta...?”

No response!

“…Krysta?”

No response!

“Where is she?” asked Starla

Suddenly, the alarms went off warning the land that there was danger lurking about. Lightning and Starla gazed at each other in shock, hoping Krysta wasn’t involved.

An announcement warned everyone that the danger was coming from Big Brown Canyon, and everyone was to head for shelter immediately while any members of Star Fleet were to investigate to danger-zone. Rhymey, Buddy Rose, and Artie were busy helping the civilians get to safety and told Starla and Lightning to go an investigate the canyon, and they promised to catch up as soon as they could.

“Starfleet Magic!” Starla and Lightning transformed and went on their way.

Big Brown Canyon: a rocky cliff terrain, with caves, mines, and everyone lived in stone houses and cabins. Starla and Lightning couldn’t see any danger as they flew overhead. So they headed land below and that a closer look. “Look at all these caves and mines.” said Lightning. Both he and Starla assumed the danger had to be inside, as Titan and his minions liked dark places. Suddenly, Starla noticed something by her front hooves. “What’s this…?”

It looked like a small map, and recently drawn, it also read…

“If you ever want to see to see your little friend again, enter the mine near where you found this map then follow its directions.”

Lightning’s anger began to show. “Krysta!” he shouted as he ran straight into the mine. “Lightning, wait!” called Starla, but then she heard a small crashing sound. Lightning came back out rubbing his head. “It’s dark in there.” he simply said Starla nodded and they both activated the night vision function on their visors, and Starla made her horn glow softly with magic for more light, and they went inside.

The walls were dripping with water, and the sounds of the splashes echoed along the walls. It was hard to see. “Starla, are you sure we’re going the right way?”

“No, but we have to be going somewhere.”

Down, down they went, through large tunnels, and down narrow paths. They didn’t even notice that two pairs of eyes were watching them through the shadows. Suddenly, they could see a light up ahead at the end of the tunnel, and they could hear voices. “Let’s go!” whispered Lightning.

Krysta was being held in a cage with crisscrossed bars so she couldn’t try to slip out. She was being guarded by all three of Titan’s minions who kept teasing at her and shaking her cage, Dementia even criticised the way Krysta’s hair was, and the way she was dressed. “Too bad I can’t say the same about you, yuck!” Krysta grouched. Dementia looked as if she was going to explode. “What… did you just SAY TO ME?!” She looked ready to blow the cage to pieces and Krysta with it. “Leave her alone!” shouted a voice. The minions turned and saw at the entrance of the chamber. “Lightning, Starla!” cried Krysta.

“…STAR SHOWER!” Starla shouted as she sent her stars to chase away the minions, but as Lightning tried to make a break for Krysta’s cage, when it levitated up higher. “Krysta!” cried Lightning. “Help me!” his friend shrieked. Then, there was more danger as he appeared before everyone, holding the cage in his ghastly hand. “Titan!” or rather it was another one of his puppets. “Oh, is this yours?” the evil sorcerer teased. Lightning had a look of such fury on his face. “Give me back my friend!” he snarled. “My, such a foul temper.” hissed Titan “There is so much more to you than meets the eye Lightning Dawn. I like that in a creature. So I tell you what; all you have to do is let me take your energy, and I’ll let your little friend go free.”

As if Lightning didn’t see that coming, and Krysta begged Lightning not to do it. “Don’t worry about me… just don’t let him get your power.” Even Starla, who was now being held hostage by the minions begged Lightning “Don’t do it, he’ll kill you!”

Lightning was aware of this, and that Titan would become even stronger and possibly gain all the energy he needed so he could really escape from his prison, and then Unicornicopia and all of the Dimensional Universe would be at great risk all because of him, but poor little Krysta; he would never be able to live with himself if anything happened to her and knowing that he had the chance to stop it and did nothing.

“I judge by your silence you’ve made your decision. Very well then, I shall settle for the energy of your little friend.” Titan hissed as he reached through the bars with his finger glowing softly, and ready to really hurt the helpless fairy. Poor Krysta was whimpering in fear. Lightning felt a small tear of worry for his friend fall from his eye. “ALL RIGHT!” he shouted, his voice echoed throughout the mine “…I’ll do it. Just let my friends go.”

Krysta and Starla were shocked and speechless, but Titan was pleased and sniggered sinisterly. “Good lad, I knew you’d see reason.” He then released Krysta from her cage, and trapped Lightning in a bubble cell. “No!” cried Krysta “Lightning!” shrieked Starla, but there was still nothing that she or Krysta could do. “They do not need to see this.” said Titan “Show them the way out minions.”

The minions bowed and began to drag Starla and Krysta away. “Come on!” snarled Rep-Stallion.

“Get moving!” growled Dementia

That’s when Titan gazed at Lightning inside the bubble. Lightning tried to break free, but his own training proved to be hardly a match for Titan’s magic, which was much stronger than ever thanks to all the energy he had been gathering. “It’s a shame that I must do this.” Titan said “You have been a most worthy nuisance, and I will miss our little encounters.” His hands began to glow and he zapped Lightning. Poor Lightning could feel himself growing weaker. Soon he would be no more. “Grand Ruler… I’m… sorry!” he muttered.

Suddenly, KA-BOOM! A big explosion blasted through the wall near where Titan was standing, causing him to lose concentration, and the bubble magic wore off setting Lightning free. He felt pretty drowsy though after losing part of his energy and lay flat on the ground.

“Who did that?” snarled Titan. “Show yourself!” That’s when a tannish-brown alicorn, poked his head through the smoke, and spoke in a Spanish accent. “You there…” he thundered at Titan “You’re a bad man, you are. No Me Gusta, I don’t like you.” Titan’s eyes glowed with anger. “You dare say such things at the mighty Titan?!” he looked ready to blast the living daylights out of the pony, when suddenly the pony ducked down, and then quickly poked his head through another opening. “Hola, Señor! You are looking for me?” Even Lightning, in his weakened condition was just as baffled.

Titan continued to fire more projectiles, but every time he caught the pony in his sights, he ducked down and then popped up somewhere else. This was causing Titan to miss and hit the walls of the mine, weakening the structures in the process. “Enough of this!” snarled Titan and he fired a humongous blast at the wall collapsing it into a pile of rubble and revealed to his and Lightning’s surprise, there were in fact two identical alicorns.

“Dyno…” said one to the other, “I think we are busted.”

“Si, I agree with you, Myte.” said the other.

Titan growled angrier than before. “You dare to deceive the all mighty Titan with such games?” he roared. “I’ll teach you both some respect!” He was about to blast them both hard, when suddenly, both Krysta and Starla came charging back into the chamber “…STAR SHOWER!”

“Blargh!” groaned Titan as Starla’s attack hit him, although he didn’t really get hurt. When Titan asked what happened to his minions, Buddy Rose, Artie, and Rhymey peered round the corner “They just got too cocky.” snapped Artie

“So we beat them quickly.” rhymed Rhymey

Titan was most annoyed, but suddenly the whole mine began to rumble and shake as rocks began to fall from the ceilings. All the blasting from Titan and the explosion made earlier by the twins had weakened the supports and the ceiling was caving in. “We’ve got to get out of here!” cried Buddy Rose but Titan was not going to leave without at least finishing off Lightning first. He approached the seemingly defenseless unicorn that lay on the ground.

That’s when Lightning gave a twitch. “What’s this?!” snapped Titan.

Lightning was beginning to find his strength again, and gazed at the evil sorcerer ferociously, and managed to slip from his grasp. “You never quit, do you?”

Lightning’s anger grew more and more intense. “You bet I never quit.” He said “I’d never let you harm my friends, and you may have weakened me a little, but you… haven’t stopped me… NOT YET!!” That’s when his golden horn glowed, and his body was illuminated in that golden light again.

“Look…!” cried Krysta.

“He’s doing it again!” added Starla.

The twin gazed in awe.

“No!” roared Titan “I won’t let you get me this time. The power shall be mine!” he reached out to grab Lightning, but he received a horrible shock upon touching him. “ARGH…!”

Lightning, then recited the magic spell…

“I summon forth a mystic power
To aid me in this darkest hour
Casting no upon my foe
I now unleash… this magical glow…!”

Titan got up from being knocked down and Lightning fired the “…UNIFORCE!”

“AA-AAA-AAAAAAHH…!” Titan was hit hard as the puppet spell broke; destroying the faker instantly so once again all that was left was a broken seal and a charred robe. Lighting stopped glowing, and felt really tuckered out now and collapsed from exhaustion. Buddy Rose scooped him up and carried him piggy back. The whole mine was breaking up now, and everyone dashed as fast as they could. “We’ll never reach the exit in time.” cried Starla

“Hey, you follow us!” called one of the twins. “We know a way! Hurry!” shouted the other. Heeding the twins’ word, the gang followed them down a secret tunnel and made it out safely through another entranceway.

“That was a close one.” said one of the twins

“Si, But at least we are all safe.” said the other.

The real Titan was sitting on his throne and feeling rather angry that Lightning Dawn had managed to beat his puppet once again. “No matter, it was well worth it.” Titan simply said as he gazed out at the weakening seal round the dimension. That small amount of energy he had stolen from Lightning and Lightning using the uniforce had expanded it immensely. At this rate, it would only take a few more battles or such to give him what he needed. “Your days are numbered, Lightning Dawn.”

The three minions exchanged sinister grins between one another.

Lightning woke up to find he was in one of the houses, with a warm fire roaring in the fireplace. Krysta was safe, and so were all the others and it was all thanks to their new friends.

“Glad to see you are alright, amigo.” said one of the twins.

“You gave us all quite a scare back in the mine.” said the other.

That’s when Lightning remembered everything that happened, including how he summoned the uniforce a second time, because he believed in himself and was determined to save everyone. Perhaps that was the key to how it worked? He would have to study some more.

The two twins introduced themselves.

"I am Dyno Enrico Sebastian La Guava. Code-number: IW8K."

I am his twin brother; Myte Roberto Diablo La Guava. Code-Number: JX9L."

Both from the planet El Mundo, another planet where space ponies lived and was patrolled by Starfleet. “We are the La Guava brothers.” They both said.

“La Guava?” Buddy Rose asked in near excitement. “Are you two, by any chance, related to General Alejandro La Guava?”

“Si, he is our father.” replied Dyno.

Everyone, even Krysta had heard of General La Guava, one of the greatest and noblest of Starfleet fighters ever, but here they were meeting his sons.

Dyno and Myte were the chief mining engineers of Big Brown Canyon, and were quite handy with mining tools, preferably explosives. “We’ve got every kind of explosive on the market, and a few we mixed up ourselves that aren’t.” said Myte.

They had also just graduated from the Starfleet academy and had only to earn their badges from the Grand Ruler for services rendered.

“So it was you two who gave Titan all that trouble and saved Me.” said Lightning. The twins nodded and explained they didn’t like it when others intruded into their mines and used them for no good, especially Titan. “He ever shows his face again…”

“…We blast him good.”

The gang began to wonder if the twins were okay as they seemed a little looney, but still, they were grateful for all they had done.

“And am I grateful as well.” said a voice. Everyone turned to face the door. “…Grand Ruler?!” they exclaimed and immediately bowed to him. They all wondered why he had come. “I heard everything from Buddy Rose.” he explained, and then he cast his gaze at Lightning. “You took a great chance today, Lightning. I must say I am rather surprised that you would surrender.”

Lightning began to feel upset. “Yes sir, I’m truly sorry! Now I’ve given Titan more energy.” His mentor nodded and explained that Titan was indeed growing stronger, and the seal was growing weaker every day, which meant he would have to work harder than ever to keep the seal strong. “I am glad you understand the seriousness of your actions Lightning, but I do want you to know how proud of you as well. For you were willing to give your own life to save your friends. I myself would do the same, just as many before you had.

You are a remarkable warrior, My brave pony.”

Lightning smiled and promised to try and avoid such situations future.

Then Grand Ruler turned to face the twins “And as for the two of you…” he clapped his hands together causing two sparkling waves to appeared and playfully circle around the twins, then flying at their armored vests and giving them official Starfleet Energizers with stars, and enchanting their armor. “You are now officially full-fledged members of the force.”

The twins almost didn’t know what to say. “Muchas gracias, Comandante.” said Dyno as he and his brother bowed to Grand Ruler. “Your excellency, you will find you have not made a mistake.” said Myte.

Grand Ruler nodded in agreement and knew the twins would make him and the planet proud, especially as he wished them to join part of Lightning’s unit, feeling the twins would be of a great help in increasing the teams power.

With Titan growing stronger, Starfleet would need to train harder and become more powerful than ever, and having more members was fine improvement. Krysta, however, felt really bad-- letting herself being lured into Titan’s trap leading to Lightning nearly losing his life. “No Krysta.” Lightning said “I know it looks bad, but I’ll be fine. Besides, you’re my friend. The best friend I’ve ever had, and I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

Krysta blushed shyly, and she pecked Lightning’s check. The two friends were happy to be safe and well, and Grand Ruler couldn’t be more proud of them both for realizing how important their friendship meant to one another, and since he had demonstrated what he learned before his eyes, he decided Lightning could skip writing his report that night.

(Promo)

In our next episode, Abra Kadabra reveals that he has fallen on hard times and could be on the verge of losing his profession. Meanwhile, Dementia gets the idea to create a monster out of mirrors, making it seemingly impossible for Lightning and friends to defeat as they only seem to be damaging themselves.

Can they find a way to beat this monster, or will they need a miracle to save the day?

Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic”

(Next Episode: “Mirror Mirror, on the Brawl”)

Episode 7: Mirror, Mirror, on the Brawl

EPISODE SEVEN

One morning, Lightning and Krysta had gone to Cookie Dough’s restaurant to deliver a shipment of foods and spices Cookie Dough had ordered. Cookie Dough was so happy, that he invited them for a free breakfast to say thanks. It was Flapjack Friday, and Cookie Dough made the best flapjacks there were. Lightning ordered a big stack for himself and Krysta, heavy on the syrup.

Just one bite of those warm fluffy flapjacks and the sweetness of the syrup, Lightning and Krysta as well as the other customers all felt lighter than air and warm inside. “Gets them every time…” Cookie Dough chuckled softly “How do I do it?”

As everyone ate through breakfast, Abra Kadabra entered the restaurant much to everyone’s astonish. “Good morning everyone.” he chuckled. A few of the customers asked for his autograph, which he was only too obliged to give. He passed by Lightning and Krysta. “What’s a big-shot like you doing here?” asked Lightning. Abra felt that was a silly question, “Why, because I’m hungry, and even a magician requires his nourishment.”

He found a table opposite from Lightning and Krysta’s. It was bare, and had not even a tablecloth on it. Cookie Dough informed him that the table hadn’t been set yet. “I can set it up immediately for you.”

“Oh, no need to bother.” said Abra “I think I can take care of that.” He put down his bag and clapped his front hands together. He was about to demonstrate his talents again, and everyone waged with eagerness and awe.

Abra began by showing everyone that his hat was completely empty, yet he pulled a beautiful red and white table cloth which he spread across the table. He waved his cape over the table making a dish appear. He held out one hand, and rolled up his sleeves, and in a swift twist flick of his fingers, eating utensils appeared in his hands. Finally, he made it seem as if he had pulled a napkin from his mouth, and then placing it flat on the table, he lifted it up revealing a flower in a thin vase of water.

Everyone applauded, and Abra took a bow. Cookie Dough brought him a serving of flapjacks. “This is on the house juts for that performance.” He said. “Ah, thank you my good sir.” said Abra “As it stands, my money is running dreadfully low, but this should help me to hold onto what I have.”

Lightning and Krysta were just as shocked. “You’re going bankrupt?” asked Krysta. “Regrettably it would seem so.” replied Abra. He explained that he had fallen on hard times since Titan had returned, and he had been having a hard time finding work and places to perform. All the parties he had ever been invited to perform at were always spoiled by an attack on the land, forcing everyone to evacuate, and some shows he had arranged were cancelled due to emergency evacuation before he had a chance to begin. He didn’t do a show, so he didn’t get paid. Even at his own performances in the streets, people threw him flowers more than they threw him money, and those who wanted Abra’s autograph, he just didn’t have the heart to ask for money, such was his reputation of being too kind.

“Well, couldn’t you just get another part time job or something?” asked Lightning.

“Yeah, if you want we could use an extra hand in the kitchen.” added Cookie Dough. “I thank you for the offer and suggestions gentlemen.” Abra said “But I’m afraid it is not so simple. You see, I am professional performer, and in my family that is a well honored position. My father, his father, and his father before him were all performers and entertainers. My family history consists of a very long line of performers and artists. I could never truly turn my back on our sacred tradition.”

“So that’s why you became a magician?” asked Krysta. Abra nodded “I was fascinated by the art of illusion and sleight-of-hand, and simple trickery. I adored amusing spectators with my talents, and was soon the toast of Unicornicopia. Sadly, with the many threats the planet now faces, I find myself on the verge of becoming a has-been. Oh, perhaps I should break with tradition and take up your offer until I can find my feet again. After all, one does not live on bread alone.”

Cookie Dough was thankful and promised to give him all the time he needed.

Titan’s minions were all arguing over whose turn it was to launch an attack, while Titan busy attending to his own devices, training and mastering his ever-growing powers for the day when the seal would break and he’d be free to exact revenge.

Ultimately the minions decided to draw straws, and Dementia won. “I’m not only beautiful, I’m just lucky.” she teased. The others were not amused. “Whatever your plan is, just make sure it actually works.” snapped Rep-Stallion.

“Hah!” remarked Dementia “At least I won’t screw up this time, unlike the two of you.”

Mysterious simply scoffed, “If memory serves me correctly, I actually succeeded in gather more energy for Lord Titan than the two of you out together.” Dementia trembled angrily. “I have a plan that’s really going to reflect upon everything.” She hissed as she gazed into her mirror while snickering.

Abra was soon put to work, washing the dishes, only he wasn’t very good at it, and dropped a couple of dishes. “Oh, dear!” he groaned, Lightning and Krysta offered to stay and help. The way Abra worked, you’d think he’d never washed dishes in his life, which was true because Abra usually ate with paper plates and plastic utensils that you threw away or recycled once you were finished with them, that and he was too busy working on his magic acts to really have too much time for simple chores most of the time.

“If only I had spent equal time learning how to do other things, I wouldn’t be in such a mess.” Abra said. “Don’t say that.” said Krysta “You’re a great magician, Abra. I know you’ll find work again.” Cookie Dough and Lightning agreed. “Abra, you’re lucky.” added Lightning “At least you can do all these things. I can’t even perform one simple card trick with or without magic. You amaze me.”

Abra felt flattered, but this still didn’t help him with his money problem. “If only there some way I could really bring my act up. Get better performances. All I’d need is full house of observers.”

Cookie Dough suddenly had an idea, and Lightning and Krysta happened upon the same thought, but they decided to save it for a surprise for Abra and everyone else in the restaurant.

As the day continued, Abra was starting to get the hang of washing dishes. He didn’t even mind that he had dishpan hands. He even amazed the staff with some of his magic tricks to store the dishes and utensils away. They were all very impressed. Abra took a bow and said to Lightning and Krysta, “I’m starting to like it here. Maybe I should work here more often.”

Lightning and Krysta just giggled at one another cheekily, both of them could hardly wait to surprise him.

Suddenly, everyone in the place began to scream. Lightning and Krysta immediately ran outside the restaurant. “…Dementia!” snarled Lightning.

The alarms sounded and everyone began to run inside before the force fields were activated. Poor Cookie Dough though, his restaurant was a mess. He took off his chef hat, “When did I start losing control in my joint?” he cried.

Lightning and Krysta searched round the empty square just as the shields came up, and then they spotted Dementia standing in at the other end of the square. “My, but it’s a lovely day for a battle.” she mocked “Only this time you’ll lose.”

Lightning and Krysta were already annoyed. “We’re tired of these games, Dementia.” snapped Lightning “Why don’t you do us all a favor and go back to Titan, and stay there?!”

Dementia simply laughed, “I think I’ll stay around here for a while, and with a little company as well.” she said as she held out her mirror. “What are you up to?” Krysta demanded to know, and she got her answer when Dementia sprinkled the magic dust all over her mirror transforming it into a monster with mirrors for arms, mirrors for legs, even two large mirrors for its body and its head. “Behold, the Re-Reflector!” She was pleased with her new monster, mostly but the fact that she could see herself from so many different angles, but that wasn’t the best part. “Go get them.”

The monster obeyed and began to move forward.

“Starfleet Magic!” Once transformed, Lightning quickly and dashed into battle. “Let’s see what this this thing can do.” He charged straight for the center mirror, which was the monster’s body, and rammed into it, only get horribly knocked back. “…OOF!” Lightning felt is he had just been hit by another cart. “What was that?” he wondered aloud. Krysta was confused too.

Dementia sniggered softly, and Lightning got up to try attacking again. He aimed a high-jump kick at the monster, but the second he made contact he felt some force boot him back hard, sending him rolling along the ground. Krysta saw the whole thing and began to wonder what was going on. The monster hadn’t even raised an arm yet Lightning had definitely been attacked by something, and she also noticed Dementia was by herself with glee. “Wait a minute!” Krysta said and she flew in closer to check out the monster as it continued to stomp its way forward.

Krysta flew at the monster’s face until she was just inches away from the glass that was reflecting her. She then reached out with her hand to touch the glass, but strangely, it felt as if she was touching her own hand. “What the…?” Then, she tried something drastic, and gently slapped her reflection in the cheek, only to feel the actual slap herself. Dementia couldn’t help but laugh hard.

“Haven’t you figured out yet?” Dementia laughed. “It’s called the Re-Reflector for a reason. Any attacks you make on it, it’ll just reflect them right back at you.”

Lightning grunted angrily “That’s just great. So, how do we beat it?”

“You don’t-- it beats you.” hissed Dementia “Let us demonstrate its other unique ability.” At her command, Re-Reflector raised its mirror arms up, up, up, and began to reflect the sunlight. This caused into powerful scorching beams to fire at Lightning and Krysta. “Watch out…!” cried Lighting as they evaded the beams. Lightning’s tail caught little graze “WHOA! Careful, it’ll fry you to a crisp!” he shouted.

Dementia was overjoyed, and really believed her victory was assured. “Why not make it easy and surrender?” she said “I promise I’ll be gentle.”

“Never!” shouted Lightning.

“We’ll never give in.” added Krysta.

“Ugh! Fine! We’ll do it the hard way.” groaned Dementia, and she ordered her monster to capture them both. Lightning and Krysta didn’t know what to do. They couldn’t even try to attack the monster while it could reflect everything. Lightning didn’t even dare use the Rainbow Rod, or the attack would bounce back at him too. At the moment he and Krysta continued to dodge the sun-beams.

While the many civilians all huddled tightly in Cookie Dough’s restaurant helplessly watched the battle from the windows. Abra was especially worried for Lightning, and could see he was in desperate need of help. As he observed the fight and how Re-Reflector was able to reflect things, he began to realize the monster had one fatal weakness. He quickly grabbed his magician’s gear and headed for the back door. “Hey, Abra what are you doing?” shouted Cookie Dough “Come back in here!” but Abra had already left the restaurant and passed right through the force-field--they stopped things from coming in, but not going out-- unharmed, and unable to ever get back inside, he dashed straight for the battle area on the other side of the building.

Re-Reflector shot another sunbeam Lightning and Krysta were barely able to dodge and the resulting explosion in the street knocked them both to the ground. Dementia couldn’t get enough of this “Face it twerps, you’re finished!”

“Not so fast!” shouted a voice.

Everyone, even the monster looked to see Abra standing in the middle of the street, his cape fluttering in the breeze and the serious look on his face. “Abra, what are you doing here?!” shouted Lightning. “Get out of here while you can!” added Krysta. Dementia actually agreed with them “Indeed you would be wise to leave.” she snapped “I have no use for you. It’s Lightning that I want. Leave here now before I order my monster to destroy you as well!”

Abra wouldn’t run, and he gazed at Dementia snarling “You and your creature have interfered long enough. You have no right to treat my friends so cruelly.”

Dementia’s features hardened “So, that’s how you want it? Fine, get him Re-Reflector!”

Abra just stood where he was as the monster fired two large sunbeams. Lightning and Krysta hollered for Abra to get out of the way, but he still didn’t move as the beams seemed to hit him causing a huge explosion. Dementia laughed hard in triumph, but when the smoke had cleared, Abra was still standing there, with his arms folded.

Lightning and Krysta were confused too, and Dementia was baffled and outraged. Abra’s lips curled into a smirk. “Remember the first rule of magic: Things are not always what they seem.” And with that, he clapped his hands and faded away into thin air-- it was just an illusion.

He then repapered standing near a lamppost, and another Abra appeared sitting on a bench. A third one stood by a post-box and a fourth popped out from a manhole in the street.

Dementia could hardly believe this and kept gazing back and forth between the Abras, while each of them taunted her.

“Is that all you can do is stare?”

“You’ll have to attack eventually.”

“Keep in mind, only one of us is the real Abra.”

“Choose wisely.”

Dementia growled fiercely. “These tricks are starting to bore me; WARP BLASTER!” She used her powers to warp the energy around her into small projectiles and fired at each of the Abras, and her monster fired its sunbeams to help her, but it turned out all four of the Abras were illusions as well. “Now I’m mad!” shouted Dementia, but then she saw the real Abra walked out from the smoke, completely unharmed. Dementia saw him “Ha, Got’cha; WARP WAVE!” Using her magic, she bound him in a seemingly tight bind.

“Abra!” cried Lightning.

“He’s trapped!”

But Abra only smirked, much to Dementia’s shock. “Very amateurish.” He said and then stamped his foot, and like magic, he magically switched the spell, so he was free and Dementia was being held up by her own spell. “What, how did you?!”

“Old escape tricks. There isn’t one yet I haven’t failed to conquer.”

The monster marched right up to him, and already laid its two huge mirror arms to the sides of Abra ready to close in and squash him! “Oh, I can’t look!” cried Krysta as she hid under Lightning’s wing, but Lightning began wonder what Abra was up to. He then watched as the monster smashed its arms together, but Abra vanished at the last second in a cloud of smoke, and caused the monster to smash its arms, shattering the glass. The monsters arms were badly damaged, because once again.

Dementia screamed in outraged and shock as she broke free from bondage. “This can’t be!”

“Did you see that?” cried Krysta.

“Of course…!” Lightning said “The monster reflects every attack that comes at it, so Abra got it to attack its own self!”

Abra, unseen, called out to Lightning “This is your chance! Attack it now!”

Lightning and Krysta agreed, and jumped at the shattered monster. Lightning kicked the monster hard, and Krysta threw several large rocks at it. Without its mirrors intact, the monster couldn’t defend itself anymore. Now that it was more than weak enough, “Do it, Lightning!” shouted Krysta. Lightning nodded and got out the Rainbow Rod. “Hope no one’s superstitious. That’s a pretty big mirror I’m about to break.”

“No! You can’t!” shouted Dementia, but Lightning was already charging the rod up.

“Powers of the rainbow, heed my call
I summon you now to make evil fall
Let goodness and justice triumph in might
I summon now… the rainbow’s light!

…SPECTRUM STREAM!”

The monster got hit, fell over and exploded. Dementia didn’t know what she was feeling; a mix of anger, shock, confusion, disbelief. “No, what went wrong?!” she thundered. She angrily gazed at Lightning who was now posing the rod at her. “Now it’s your turn!” but before he could charge up the power…

“I’ll get you yet for this! Just you wait!” Dementia growled, and she disappeared. Lightning growled that he missed his chance to get her, but at least the city was saved; except for all the collateral damages in the street, but they would be easily fixed.

Abra appeared alongside them as if from nowhere, and was applauding for them both. “Truly a magnificent performance.” He complimented.

“How did you do all that?” Krysta asked.

Abra only chuckled, “My dear Krysta, a good magician never reveals his secrets.”

Krysta and Lightning merely sighed. “You know, he’d make a fine fighter with those skills.”

Abra felt flattered, but he wouldn’t dream of taking a job with Starfleet, especially for the events that were to occur that very night…!

Abra was given his surprise, and so was the rest of the town…

Cookie Dough’s restaurant was already popular, and Abra was given a place for a permanent gig where he could perform shows while everyone was treated to a lovely dinner. Business was more than doubled, and both Arba and Cookie agreed to split the profits fairly.

Abra was quite a hit and the crowds just admired his talent. So did Lightning and Krysta, who were sadly forced to watch from the kitchen as they scrubbed extra dishes. “This part of the show I’m not really enjoying.” Lightning groaned. Krysta agreed, and she was only drying dishes. “Well, at least we helped Abra out. Look how happy he is.”

They watched the show go on through the kitchen doors behind them, and Lightning agreed that Abra was doing great. They also still were pretty curious at how he performed his tricks, but figured it best not to after all.

That night, before going to bed, Lightning wrote his report…

“Abra may be a civilian, and though he disobeyed orders by leaving the comparative safety of the shelters, he proved to be quite helpful in the battle today despite not having any special training in the art of combat, but just relying on his own skills and talent. It’s no surprise that art of magic is indeed like a box full of tricks-- hard to understand and difficult to master.

This also bring me back to my own status, and how even though I have no real magic of my own, I too have special skills on my own that help me and others whenever danger threatens our world. I feel that if others can appreciate others for their own talents and skills, and realize they are capable of doing so much more than they at first think… perhaps there will be more universal peace…

…that is, if we ever get past all the evil that threatens us still.”

He signed his name, then sent the report through the magic mailbox slot which would send it all the way to Grand Ruler’s floating palace in the sky.

After that, he hopped into bed, and turned out the lights and dreamt of all the adventures he would have another day.

(Promo)

In our next episode, as the night falls and the ponies all drift off to sleep, this gives Mysterious the idea to plague them all with terrible nightmares, which curse the ponies into being afraid and losing their self-confidence, weakening their powers immensely. With their confidence struck, Mysterious summons a new monster made of flames to attack the already frightened lot.

Can the ponies overcome their fears? Will Mysterious’ plan be their ultimate undoing?

Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic!”

(Next Episode: “Nighty Nightmare”)

Episode 8: Nighty Nightmares

EPISODE EIGHT

Mysterious had come before Titan with a super idea to help gather more energy for Titan, as well as severely weaken Starfleet’s chances of interfering. “Explain yourself, Mysterious.” Titan hissed.

Mysterious bowed and explained, “You are aware by this time, most of the alicorns are all heading home to sleep until morning, and that is where I shall strike them.”

Rep-Stallion was confused and asked “You’re going to go after them while they’re sleeping?” Mysterious nodded. “Correct. I shall strike where they cannot be protected-- in their dreams!”

He showed them all how he had been practicing and planned to cast a spell over Unicornicopia so all the alicorns would have horrifying nightmares unlike any others. These nightmares, once dreamt would place them in a state of unspeakable fear so great it would break their self-confidence “With their self-confidence impaired, Starfleet will be powerless and too frightened to do a thing about it.”

“I gotta admit, that is kind of impressive.” said Dementia.

“Yeah, wish I thought of It.” added Rep-Stallion.

Titan liked the sound of this and gave Mysterious his approval. Then he cast an image of Unicornicopia as night was beginning to fall, and the ponies were already leaving for home. “Pleasant dreams, ponies.” he teased silently.

The Grand Ruler was already out and making the sun set bringing forth the dark of the night. The towns and villages were starting to quiet down, and the daytime Starfleet officers were heading home as the night patrols came out for their shift of duty. The only real signs of life in most places were lighted windows in houses, but one by one they went out as ponies went to sleep.

Buddy Rose had just finished his work and closed up the community garden. He stretched and yawned and said “Gee, I’m certainly going to sleep well tonight, I’m bushed.”

“I think so too.” added Artie as he passed by with his case of art-supplies “When you’re in the art business you lose track of time and rest.”

Rhymey came along after he had just locked up his Café for the night. He looked ready for bed already and let out a big yawn.

“Oh, it sure has been a busy day,
It’s time to sleep my weariness away.”

Starla helped Inquerius close up the library for the night. “Did you see Lightning leave?” Inqueruis asked. Starla shook her head, but then she looked up. “There he is, up on the roof.”

Everyone looked up at Lightning as he gazed up at the stars as he sang a small song…

That’s when he leapt down from the roof, landing in the streets, and his friends began to dance with him in the streets as the music kept going. They danced around the lampposts, over the small fence-railings, and even did little flying dance moves. They kept on dancing as all through Rainbow City, and across a few of the villages, and one-by-one each of the friends broke away from the group to head for their respective homes, but waved goodnight to the gang.

Finally, Lightning and Krysta headed back home to their house in White Village, and upon arriving Lightning wrapped up his song…

He and Krysta smiled at each other but then both let out a yawn. Krysta pecked Lightning on the cheek before flying into her little house in the wall. “Goodnight Lightning.”

“Sleep tight, Krysta.” responded Lightning as he hopped into bed. He had had a long hard day of helping out his friends and the citizens of Rainbow City, and earned a good night’s rest.

Soon, all over the kingdom, everyone was fast asleep. Some were even snoring. The only exceptions were the night guards patrolling the streets and manning the lookout post. However, not one of them had spotted Mysterious nearby.

At night, in the dark, he could blend in with the darkness and shadows to slink around without being seen easily and there wasn’t much light out to harm him. He made his way to a small cave in Yellow Hills, where Rhymey lived, and thought it perfect place to begin his little scheme.

“It is time.” he hissed, and he began to cast his new spell onto a small stone-pillar in the center of the cave. His evil magic radiated from the pillar actually spreading out through the cave entrance and spreading its way across the planet. The night guards were still on patrol, when suddenly their visors detected strong levels magic in the air. They didn’t know what it was, but could tell it wasn’t natural, and decided to alert the Grand Ruler and investigate immediately

While Mysterious stood in the cave snickering wickedly. “Let the nightmares commence!”

Buddy Rose was starting to toss and turn in his sleep and moaning softly, as he began to dream about heading to his garden, one day, to realize, all his beautiful plants were dead. He tried and tried his best to revive them, but this only made the spiritual forces of his plants return as angry, nasty monsters, with sharp teeth and thorns, seeking to eat him, alive.

…

Starla dreamt that the stars were falling from the sky like a meteor shower, crushing and destroying anything they slammed on. Even the library and the observatory were hit and burst into flames. Starla even found herself being surrounded by a ring of stars that fell from the skies and burst into flames that began to close in on her.

Rhymey dreamed that while he was reciting a poem about monsters and horrors-- as he read the words he wrote the monsters and horrors he described actually came to life and gave chase.

“Mercy me…!
I believe I should FLEE…!”

Even Krysta was having a nightmare…

She dreamt that she had found other fairies just like her and they invited her into a spring for a swim, but as soon as Krysta leapt off the edge, the beautiful paradise turned into an infernal nightmare, with flaming monsters, molten lava, and demons that caught her.

More ponies were tossing and turning in their sleep as their nightmares grew worse, and as their nightmares continued to haunt their minds the energy emitted from their fearful emotions seemed to sail along the air as forms of magic and traveled to Mysterious in his hideout as he harnessed it all in a magic ball which he sent to Titan to make him stronger. He just couldn’t stop laughing to himself, but what he was really anxious for was about to happen. “Any moment now…” he hissed softly.

Easily, Lightning was having one of the worst dreams.

He dreamt that he was brought before the Grand Ruler and he did not look a bit pleased for reasons unknown. “Lightning Dawn it has become clear to me that I can no longer trust you, or instruct you as my apprentice. I have no choice but to banish you to the Dark Planet and out of my sight and this planet FOREVER…!”

In a quick snap Lightning and Krysta both woke up with a bloodcurdling gasp, all their friends work up in exactly the same way, as did others all over the planet; some were even screaming, some fell out of bed, and little children were crying and weeping in fear.

Mysterious could sense the fear in the very air as he absorbed the last amount of the energy. “Excellent, my plan has worked perfectly. Oh, what I would give to see the expressions on their fearful faces now.”

Lightning and Krysta were quivering madly, fraught with so much fear, but they couldn’t understand why. They had had nightmares before, but they never felt as shaky as they were now.

Suddenly, there was a knock at the door, causing them both to jump. “It’s okay, it’s just the door.” stuttered Krysta. Lightning answered the door, and he was relieved to see it was Starla and Buddy Rose, but they, too, looked just as freaked out as Lightning and Krysta.

Starla explained about her nightmare, and that she was too scared to even look at the stars through her telescope. Buddy Rose was almost too scared of all the plants and flowers in his home garden, and on their way over, she also heard several ponies screaming from their bedrooms, and could hear the cries of many frightened children.

Stuttering, Buddy Rose asked “D-D-Do you think maybe… this isn’t natural, like someone’s… making us feel this way?”

“I don’t think I want to find out.” cried Starla. Lightning and Krysta felt the same, but they all knew this was ridiculous; the way they were acting; scared of their own shadows.

Suddenly, a magical letter shot through the open window, landing on Lightning’s bed. The suddenness of its appearance made them all jump and yelp. Lightning recognized the seal on the rolled up paper. “I… It’s from the Grand Ruler.” he whimpered, but he didn’t seem too eager to look at it fearing it was bad news. “You may as well open it and get it over with now.” cried Buddy. “Y… Y… You can do it.” added Starla.

Lightning swallowed hard and nervously unrolled the letter.

Lightning…

Do not be alarmed, I am well aware of the nightmares you and your friends have experienced. The entire planet is suffering from this, and I can assure you this is not natural.

Only recently before I sent you this letter, I was informed by the night patrols that a strange magic had been detected roaming about. This spell causes anyone who is sleeping to dream up terrible nightmares, and then they awaken cursed with near-uncontrollable fear and anxiety.

As you read this, I am currently going around the planet trying to dispel the magic with my own to stop it from spreading and spare others from suffering, but you and your friends must find out the source of the spell and destroy it.

Do not let your fears hold you back. Without your self-confidence your powers will be severely weakened, and you will not be able to transform into your battle-gear. Just be strong, and stand up to your fears. You can break the spell and help us save the kingdom from a nasty night’s sleep. I have faith in you and the others Lightning.

Your caring master: The Grand Ruler.

PS: At this moment as I write this, the guards have informed me the source of the magic seems to be emitting from somewhere in Yellow Hills!

“W- W-We have to go out there.” Lightning said nervously “It’s the only way.”

“No way, count me out!” cried Starla.

“I’ll second that.” added Buddy Rose.

Krysta even slipped back inside her house and hid under her bed. “Why can’t we just use magic to get through this?” she groaned, but she pretty much knew this was something magic couldn’t fix, and just as the letter had said without their self-confidence, their powers were weak and would be useless. In their conditions, they were likely to be sitting ducks if they went out there.

Lightning, soon began to feel he was acting rather silly-- his mentor had faith in him, why else would he charge him with such a task. He was a member of Starfleet; a warrior! He swore to help defend the world from evil and here he was cowering over one simple dream? “I’m going to try at least. I’ll go alone if I have to.” he said with pride, and though he was still feeling scared, he leapt out the window and flew off into the night. Starla felt more nervous than ever. So did Krysta, but they both just couldn’t let Lightning do this alone and they flew off after him. Buddy Rose was still not too keen on going, but he felt even more scared being left all alone. “Wait for me!” he called as he chased after them.

Soon they arrived at Rhymey’s house in Yellow Hills, but it took some time for him to answer the door after they knocked. The door creaked opened and poor, frightened Rhymey peeked through whimpering…

“Is somebody out there?
Please don’t give me another scare!”

The others convinced him that everything would be okay, at least they hoped.

Yellow Hills was a small village; quiet and peaceful, the hills were small and not very step. However, the team could already see small magical waves emitting from one of the hills, and they nervously approached the area finding the entrance to a small cave. “I… I don’t see anything in there.” stuttered Buddy Rose.

“But I see you!” hissed a voice from inside the cave loudly making the gang jump.

“That voice!” cried Lightning, and they all saw Mysterious step out from the cave laughing wickedly and he teased “You all seem a bit shaken. Having bad dreams?”

“So, you’re behind this! You gave us those nightmares!” growled Starla.

Mysterious sniggered and nodded his head, “And it looks as if my little plan has succeeded. Look at you; you’re all trembling with fear. It shows in your eyes. I think now’s the perfect time to introduce you to my newest sidekick.” He clapped his hands and a large flare of fire erupted from the cave frightening the gang as a huge fiery coated monster emerged. Mysterious called this monster, Hothead, and made it from the flares of a torch he had in the cave with him.

Fire light didn’t seem to harm him that much as it was weak and dim, the sight of such a beast made Krysta scream and hide under Lightning’s wing. “Oh, my, Oh!” she whimpered. That was the exact same type of monster that attacked her in her dream, a large monster with burning flames all over its body. “G…G…Get it away! Keep it away from me!”

“Me too!” cried Starla as she backed away, while Buddy and Lightning whimpered and shook with fear. Mysterious was overcome with joy of seeing the ponies so scared. “This is better than I had visualized. Prepare to be destroyed!” He was about to order Hothead to attack, when suddenly, they both got bombarded by small explosions and magical blasts.

They turned round and saw Artie, in his battle-gear. He fired more magical blasts from his horn, and launched his Paint Bomb attack causing more explosions knocking Mysterious off his feet “It can’t be!” he cried.

“Time to put your plans to bed, Mysterious!” snarled Artie.

The others were glad to see him, but were just as surprised to see him geared up and not afraid. Artie explained to them “The spell only affects those who sleep, but I was tossing and turning still thinking about my paintings. I never went to sleep so I had no nightmare.”

Mysterious growled as he got up realizing his error. “You may have avoided my spell, but let’s see you avoid me!”

“Bring it on!” snarled Artie, and the two of them began to brawl, but Mysterious, being in the dark of the night, had the upper-hand. Artie’s physical attacks went right through him. He tried to zap him with more magic, but Mysterious was now able to avoid them by slinking around along the shadows. “You’re beginning to look cold. Perhaps my monster will warm you up a bit.”

Hothead growled fiercely and made his way towards Artie. “…PAINT BOMB!” Artie tried his very best, but his explosive attacks didn’t seem to work too well on a fire creature. “Guys, I could use a hand here!” he called to the others.

The others knew he needed help, but their fears held them back badly. Hothead then launched huge fireballs at Artie, hitting him hard and sent him rolling along the ground. “Guys!” he cried out.

“Artie… we can’t…!” cried Lightning. Mysterious fired magical pulses near the gang to freak them out worse. Sparks and small explosions flew everywhere. Starla screamed, and the others backed away.

“Ha, too bad fraidy-cats. You’re finished along with your friend.” Mysterious mocked and he prepared to fire a finishing blast to finish them all off. “No!” cried Artie. He tried to rush over and help them, but got fired at by Hothead.

The others trembled in fear as Mysterious came closer and ready to fire. Lightning felt this was the end, but suddenly he and the others remembered what the Grand Ruler had said; he just had to face his fears. “Come on guys, we can do this!”

The others nervously nodded and concentrated hard trying to stand up to their fears.

“Say goodbye!” growled Mysterious as he fired his blast, but the others quickly dodged causing him to miss “What?!” he snarled, and both Starla and Buddy Rose blasted at him with magic blasts.

“It’s over, Mysterious!” snarled Lightning “We’ve broken your fright spell.”

Mysterious couldn’t believe it! “It matters not; I got what I came for anyway. I’ll leave you at the mercy of my monster!” and he vanished.

“Guys!” shouted Artie “Glad you’re better, but I could use some serious help!”

“Hang on Artie!” hollered Lightning. “Let’s go guys!” The others agreed and transformed. “…STARFLEET MAGIC!!”

Artie leapt over to join the group and they all stared the monster down. Hothead flared up wildly and angrily ready for a big burn.

Just looking at him already told the ponies that their normal attacks wouldn’t work on fire, and physical attacks were No-No too. “Try your weapons.” shouted Lightning.

“STAR BOW”

“VINE WHIP”

“SUPER STAFF”

“WARD SWORD”

With their weapons drawn, they all charged, attacked the beast hard, but its flams were still burning bright making it difficult to approach him, and Hothead hit them all with hot punches knocking them all away.

“Whoa! That really burns!” cried Buddy Rose.

“The flames are too much.
He’s too hot to touch!” added Rhymey.

“There’s got to be some way to cool this beast down!” said Krysta. Hearing this made Lightning realize “Cool it down, of course!” and he saw a fire-hydrant nearby. “Guys, lead him this way!”

The others didn’t know what he was up to, but obeyed their leader’s orders and lead Hothead towards the hydrant, and began to catch on to Lightning’s plan. Lightning then spit into his hands and rubbed them together, and pulled and tugged hard on the hydrant, yanking it clear off the ground spraying a huge burst of water in a perfect angle onto the monster. Hothead roared loudly as it felt itself growing weaker every second, and soon all its flames had gone out and it could hardly even stand upright. “Get him!” shouted Lightning, and all his friends jumped in merceliely attacking the monster, weakening him further. Then Lightning saw his chance and got out the Rainbow Rod. He charged it up and recited the chant.

“SPECTRUM STREAM”

The monster was struck and blew it up in a ball of fire. The others cheered for joy over their victory.

“Well done everyone.” said a voice from atop the hill. The gang looked, and saw someone standing off in the distance. “Grand Ruler!” cried Lightning. His master nodded as he stood proudly on the hill with his cape fluttering in the soft breeze. “Because you all believed you could win and faced your fears, you overpowered Mysterious’ magic.”

He was also happy to announce that after Mysterious had left, his nightmare spell on the planet was weakened enough for him to dispel it.

“That is good to know,
But Titan has still gained power so.”

“Yes, I’m afraid he has.” said Grand Ruler. “Take great care of yourselves, for this battle with Titan and his forces will continue, and now will only get much more difficult, but know that I have faith in all of you, especially you, Lightning.”

The gang bowed to the Grand Ruler, and Lightning asked his mentor, “When will I learn the true secret of my real magic? Haven’t I come far enough?”

Grand Ruler chuckled, “You have done wonderfully Lightning, but you still have a long way to go yet. One day all will be clear to you, but for now just stick with your basic training.

I must go now. I still have much to do before the planet can sleep tightly again. Goodnight.”

The gang quickly replaced the fire-hydrant Lightning broke, and then decided it was best to head home to bed. Lightning felt disappointed that even after all this he still didn’t know what his master was trying to teach him about magic, but at least when he and the others went home and back to bed, they all had nicer, more pleasant dreams.

Lightning didn’t even have to write a report, for he again learned something and demonstrated it before his master’s eyes. So, he simply snuggled comfortably under the covers and dreamt of all the adventures he would have another day.

(Promo)

In our next episode, Professor Brain develops and aerial balloon and invites Lightning and Krysta for a ride, but Rep-Stallion, seeking to prove his worth to Titan, arrives to cause trouble by using the balloon to his own advantage.

How can Lightning and his friends overcome this new threat?

Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic!”

(Next Episode: “Up, Up and In a Balloon”)

Episode 9: Up, Up and a Balloon

EPISODE NINE

Titan was growing stronger thanks to vast amounts of energies that his minions had gathered for him and believed he was nearly ready to ultimately break the seal and escape! He could hardly wait to escape from this prison. He removed his hood and gazed at his reflection in the darkness where only he could see.

He reached up, gently caressing his face with his fingertips, and he growled deeply “I will never forgive this world for all it has done to me!” He replaced his hood and sat down on his throne. “Once I am free from this prison, I will finally be able to exact my revenge, and then… there will be none to stand in my way. The dimensional universe will be mine to control!” He laughed sinisterly which echoed all through the castle.

Meanwhile, Rep-Stallion was beginning to feel upset that he hadn’t had a turn for a while yet to gather energy or create a monster. “I don’t get it, what’s he holding me back for?” he asked miserably.

“Hmm, let’s see…” said Dementia “Is it because you’re not very smart, or the fact that you’ve collected the least amount of energy then me and Mysterious, or maybe the fact that Starfleet kicks you around so easily it’s laughable?”

All those insults and mockery, Rep-Stallion fired a near miss at Dementia, breaking one of her mirrors. “Hey!” she growled. “So that’s all you think of me? Well I’ll show you!” He began to head off. “Where do you think you’re going?” asked Dementia.

“I’m going to destroy those pesky alicorns right now, and I’m not coming back until I do.”

“Rep-Stallion…” snarled Mysterious “We have been told to remain on standby from Titan. He will not be pleased with your insubordination!”

Rep-Stallion still didn’t care and believed he would please Titan by serving him a dish of raw and dead alicorns on a silver platter by the days end, and he had just the idea for a monster to guarantee him such a victory.

It was another happy day in Unicornicopia and everyone was up and about, some were at work, some of the children were playing in the parks and playgrounds. It certainly was a nice day, and that worried Krysta a lot. “This is usually the time when Titan or one of his goons comes after us again.”

“Well if they do, they’ll find we’ll be more ready for them than ever.” said Lightning.

It had already become quite clear to everyone, even the civilians that Titan’s escape was inevitable. The Grand Ruler was still using all his might to keep the seal intact, but ultimately warned Starfleet to be prepared for anything. They would not allow Titan to beat them as easily as he had did once before, but for now simple life continued on, and Lightning and Krysta had job to do.

Cookie Dough’s restaurant had takeout meal deliveries, and he asked Lightning to deliver a specially packed lunch to Brain’s place in Greenland. “He’s been working another of his secret projects and says he hasn’t got time to come here and get it himself, and all my other delivery-Men are out already.”

Soon Krysta and Lightning made it to Greenland, which lived up to its name as it consisted of lush green fields that stretched as far as they eye could see laden with pine-trees small green shrubs and bushes and hedges. The houses were all white dome-shaped, with a light green touch of paint on the woodworks.

They remembered Professor Brain’s laboratory home from their last visit, and upon their arrival, they could see him outside with his special project just completed. “A big balloon…?” Krysta said almost in a slight of dismay. “That’s what he’s been working on?”

“I don’t believe it myself.” said Lightning

The Professor was standing in the basket of the balloon and was truly proud of his work “Ah, satisfactory, most satisfactory.” He saw Lightning and Krysta and was glad someone finally showed up to see his work. “Tell me do you like it?” he asked. Lightning and Krysta gazed at one another. “Yeah… we do…” Lightning said “But why would you spend all this time making a balloon for, especially seeing as we can already fly ourselves, not to mention at fantastic speeds.”

“But, my dear fellow, I am not suggesting it can compete with what you said, but for the sheer sensation of flying, there is nothing to compare with than a gas-filled balloon.” He reached down and put on his old pilot goggles. “Come along you two, and join me for a most exciting experience.” Krysta and Lightning decided to go along, and as soon as they climbed aboard Brain unfastened the lines holding the balloon down, “Right, away we go.” and the balloon slowly began to rise up into the air.

The balloon soared over Greenland, and across Rainbow City, and then back because Brain didn’t intend to fly too far for his first test, but Krysta and Lightning were impressed. “This is relaxing. I’m kind of surprised.” said Krysta “And the breeze feels just wonderful.” added Lightning.

“Did I not tell you so?” Brain chuckled

They landed safely near Brain’s home, fastened the balloon down again and hopped out. “Well Professor that sure was fun.” said Lightning.

Brain agreed “And I haven’t even told you the most exciting feature, the balloon is made of specially coated fabric making it difficult to puncture so there is little chance of a leak being sprung.”

“Really? That’s all I need to know.” snapped a voice. The others turned round and saw Rep-Stallion standing in their presence. “Nice balloon. Mind if I borrow it?”

“I say, you leave my invention alone you horrible creature!” growled Brain, but of course Rep-Stallion leapt over to the balloon to take it anyway. “Thanks a lot, I appreciate it. Now get ready for a monster like no other.” he sneered as he threw the magic dust over the balloon, transforming into a huge monster called Big-Blow! Its shape was rather odd. The basket was its head, the ropes and latches were all connected together to serve as the arms and legs, and the big balloon itself served as the body; a very obese and blubbery body.

Lightning was not impressed, so he decided to transform. “Starfleet Magic!” He used his visor to scan the monster and was surprised to see its attack power and speed were extremely low, and its defenses weren’t much to be a threat either. “This should be easy, maybe even the easiest fight I’ll ever have.”

“Let’s go.” snapped Krysta.

“Wait!” cried Brain, but they had already charged for Big-Blow.

Rep-Stallion hopped on the head of his monster and laughed at their feeble attempts. “Show them what you got!” He said and with a swift wave of his scythe, “Now!” and the monster drew in a huge breath and unleashed a powerful gust of strong air, sending Lightning and Krysta sailing backwards hard and crashing head first into a tree.

Krysta and Brain dashed over to them. Both Lightning and Krysta had stars floating around their dizzy heads. They weren’t badly hurt, but found it hard to focus. “Wow! That thing’s got a lot of air in it.” groaned Lightning.

Krysta shook herself to her senses. “What a blowhard!”

Rep-Stallion laughed. “Nice job, now seize them!”

The monster began to stomp its way towards the gang, and drew in another huge long breath creating a massive strong pull like a wind-tunnel. Lightning felt himself being lifted off of the ground by the strong winds. He quickly grabbed the tree and held it tight. Krysta held onto Lightning’s mane and Brain grabbed Lightning’s tail, which hurt him because of the pulling force, “…AAAAH! OOOWWW! That hurts!”

“Oh, my goodness!” cried Brain.

“I can’t hold on much longer!” added Krysta

Poor Lightning was a little preoccupied by the pull of the air and the agonizing pane from Brain pulling on his tail and Krysta holding his mane. The pull of the wind only got stronger as the monster treaded closer! “They can’t hold against the pull forever.” grumbled Rep-Stallion, but his patience were wearing thin and he raised his scythe, “This ought to loosen their grip-- SCYTHE SLASH WAVE!” With a wave of his scythe he fired small blasts of waving-energy at the tree, hoping to hit Lightning so he’d let go. “AH! WHOA!” but his grip still held! He just couldn’t let go!

“I’m losing my grip!” cried Krysta.

“Just hang on!” shouted Lightning.

“I hate to admit this, but I believe I am slipping.” cried Brain.

Rep-Stallion fired another blast, and the force nearly hit Lightning and created small sparks. He managed to hang on, but the others finally lost their grip and were pulled away in the winds. “PROFESSOR...!! KRYSTA!!” Lightning screamed.

“…LIGHTNING!” Krysta screamed as she and Brain disappeared into the monster’s huge mouth, causing the wind pull to stop, and the monster took a big gulp and swallowed hard. Lightning felt this heart ripping in half. “He… He ate them!” he cried as tears of anger and sadness formed in his eyes.

“Well…” Rep-Stallion said as he scratched his head “Not quite was I was aiming for, but it will do just as nicely for a start.” He also loved the very sight of Lightning on the verge of tears. “Relax!” he assured him “Your friends are perfectly safe, for the moment; inside the interior balloon of Big Blowout, but every second they stay in there their energies will be drained and sent to Titan, and soon you’ll be joining them.”

Lightning was really stuck now. He couldn’t even try to attack the monster while his friends were trapped inside! “What am I going to do?” he growled in frustration.

It was dark and pretty windy inside the huge balloon, but Krysta used her fairy magic to make her body glow to make it brighter, and Brain has special miniature lights in his glasses. “You okay Professor?” Krysta asked. “I am just fine, Krysta.” Brain said, “But I fear we are in deep trouble. We must try and escape from here. Who knows what is happening to Lightning out there?”

That’s when they felt the monster sucking in more air which shook them all about inside.

Lightning was still hanging onto the tree, not willing to surrender. His friends were counting on him, but he still didn’t dare fight back. “Just give it up!” snarled Rep-Stallion “You have no choice. Your friends’ lives are at stake!”

Lightning growled and groaned in attempt to hang on tight.

Inside, Brain and Krysta were blown around hard and were lying flat against the walls so they wouldn’t jerk around so much. “There’s too much air!” cried Krysta “This balloon is really driving me crazy!”

But her words made Brain realize, “Air… Balloon…! By word, that’s it!”

He explained to Krysta that there only one hope of them getting out and that was to pop a hole in the balloon from the inside where they were. “But how…?” asked Krysta “You said it was impossible to penetrate the fabric.”

“No! I said there is little chance, meaning that there is a possibility.” replied Brain and he reached behind him, “Luckily… I always keep my trusty miniature-drill for such emergencies.” and he started drilling.

Lightning didn’t know how much longer he could last like this, or how much longer his friends would be safe, if they even were safe. “I’ll never give into you, Rep-Stallion, NEVER!” Rep-Stallion growled and began to fire more blasts at him trying to force him to let go. Some of the blasts even hit him and they hurt! “ARGH…! AH…! DON’T LET GO!” he kept shouting.

Rep-Stallion couldn’t believe the determination Lightning was exhibiting, but he was growing angry. “I’ll get you yet!” he thundered as he fired more shots.

Krysta could swear she could hear Lightning suffering from outside. “Time’s running out, Brain…! Hurry!” she screamed.

“All right…!” Brain called “I think I’m… nearly… through, but this… fabric is stronger… than I thought!”

This was it! The monster was still sucking in air, and Rep-Stallion had lost all patience. “Be prepared!” he thundered as he readied himself for one final, really big shot… when suddenly the monster began to vibrate violently. “Hey! Hey! What’s going on?! HEY!” POW!! A huge hole popped right through the monster’s body for sucking in so much air, and Brain’s drill finally breaking through. The monster took over blowing around as the air escape knocking Rep-Stallion off and down to the ground hard. Krysta and Brain were set free, but they didn’t exactly have a smooth landing.

“Ouch…!”

“Oh…! I say!”

Lightning fell flat on the ground, bruised and hurt from being hit so much, he looked in bad shape, and so did the monster. It looked like a squeezed out tube of toothpaste, and couldn’t even stand. “My monster!” growled Rep-Stallion! “This can’t be happening…!”

A golden glow of light forced him to turn round. “Huh…?”

Lightning, despite his injuries managed to stand up and was summoning his great power…

“I summon forth a mystic power
To aid me in this darkest hour
Casting no upon my foe
I now unleash… this magical glow…!”

Lightning took great aim, and as Rep-Stallion began to run away Lightning unleashed the “…UNIFORCE!!” His blast soared in Rep’s direction and just barely missed him, knocking him out! “UGH-AAH…!” and continued forward striking the monster, destroying it in an explosion of air instead of flames.

“NO...!” shouted Rep “No! What went wrong?” he then angrily turned to face Lightning, who by now was very weak and sore. “No running this time…!” he growled as he gripped his scythe and charged forward, “I’m going to get you ONCE AND FOR ALL…!”

“LIGHTNING, GET OUT OF THERE!” cried Krysta, but Lightning could barely move after all he had been through and using the uniforce too. Rep-Stallion continued to run forward ready to strike, when he was suddenly halted by the sudden appearance of a force-field. “AAAHH…!” Everyone was confused, until the roaring sound of Titan’s angry voice was heard. “REP… STALLION, I think you’ve done quite enough! You are coming back here immediately!”

In a blazing glow of light followed by a scream, Rep-Stallion vanished.

“He’s gone!” cried Krysta.

“Never mind that…” said Brain “We must help Lightning.”

Mysterious and Dementia were forced to watch Titan as he showed Rep-Stallion very little mercy by continuously shocking him with his now stronger powers. “I warn you, Rep-Stallion, if you EVER run off to spring a plan without my clarifications again, I will not be as merciful on you as I am being now! DO YOU UNDERSTAND?!”

Through all the pain and shocking Rep-Stallion acknowledged his master’s warning.

Doctor Penny was summoned and she helped treat Lightning’s injuries. “There! All better?” she asked. “Apart from being incredibly exhausted. I’ll be fine.” Lightning said. Krysta and Brain were very relieved, but Lightning felt just awful. “I’m sorry I destroyed your balloon, Professor.”

Brain shook his head “My dear fellow, the important thing is that everyone is safe, and that’s all that matters to me.” He was most sympathetic. Right now it was strongly suggested that Lightning rest, he had taken quite a beating, despite being just healed.

“Oh, Lightning,” Krysta sighed softly as her friend slept “I don’t know what we’d do without you.”

When Lightning got home the next morning, after a good rest, he wrote out his overdue report…

“While Titan’s monsters come in many shapes and sizes, and each with their own horrifying set of abilities, it is no secret that the courage and determination of me and my friends will overpower their evil any day. Still, that could be just a gamble on probability.

Courage and determination are also used in everyday lives, but it should be well known that one should never risk just gambling on them alone, but knowing that we are fortunate enough to possess these forces and that we can learn to control… it is these things alone that make us mightier than we think.”

After he sent his report off to Grand Ruler’s palace, he and Krysta went off for another beautiful day in Unicornicopia.

(Promo)

In our next episode, the Grand Ruler carries out his annual inspection of the planet and is planning a stay in the city. The ponies are all excited, but Inquerious insists that certain methods of conduct must be met to please his royal highness. Meanwhile, Titan is finally ready to escape from his prison, which will mean certain danger for the ponies.

Will the Grand Ruler be pleased with the presentations, and what will happen when Titan crashes the party?

Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic”

(Next Episode: “A Night to Remember Part 1”)

Episode 10: A Night to Remember: Part 1

Author's Note

To those who still can't get it through their heads that this ISN'T MAGIC IS BELIVING...

See? It's been re-written. No hopscotch dance...

...Get over yourselves!

Episode 10: A Night to Remember: Part 1

EPISODE TEN

The darkness was swirling wildly around Titan’s castle, and the lightning and thunder rattling the skies more violently than ever combined with Titan’s evil laugher. “The time has come. The day has arrived! I shall be free from this cursed prison by the stroke of midnight!”

The minions were all very happy for their master, and couldn’t wait for the party to begin, by which they would tear Unicornicopia and Starfleet to shreds, and they couldn’t had asked for a better chance on a finer day considering what was happening on the planet now…!

Everyone was very busy in Unicornicopia, for today was a very special, very important day; the Grand Ruler would be making his annual inspection of the planet, to make sure everything was safe and well, and checking up on Starfleet making sure the force was properly doing their jobs. This year however, there was an added bonus…!

A new five-star hotel had just been completed in Rainbow City, and was being dedicated to his majesty as a kindly gesture. It was called “The Golden Grand Hotel” his majesty was especially invited to cut the ribbon and declare it open. The managers were so thrilled at this, but even more thrilled to have received a letter from his majesty saying that he was already so delighted at the gesture, that he agreed to spend the night there for the grand opening.

It was very seldom the Grand Ruler ever stayed overnight outside of his royal palace. When word of this reached the citizens, they all decided to get together and thrown a grand gala to celebrate and honor his majesty’s visit.

The entire city was bustling about to prepare for his majesty’s arrival as well as the inspection. Lightning and his friends were helping out to prepare the hotel for the gala that night.

Cookie Dough was busy preparing the biggest feast he had ever cooked, possibly enough to feed the entire planet, but he still found time to prepare small lunches for everyone during their breaks from work. “This is going to be the greatest feast I’ve ever made.” he kept saying to himself.

Artie, Buddy Rose, and Rhymey were in charge helping to decorate the town. Streamers and balloons; Buddy Rose even aligned them with some of his finest white and red roses. “…Beautiful!” he remarked.

“Those flowers are beautiful and bright,
I wonder how they’ll look by moonlight.” said Rhymey.

“Oh, I’m sure we’ll find out tonight.” said Artie “In the meantime, let’s keep working.”

Lightning assigned Krysta and Starla with the best task, entertainment for the big party that night, and the girls wasted no time in hiring Abra Kadabra to be one of the main performers, and watched him perform. They approved of his acts entirely, and Abra felt very please and excited. “This will be my greatest performance.” Abra said with pride.

The Spanish twins, Dyno and Myte were tasked with another one of the best jobs-- the fireworks display. “Bueno!” cried Dyno “This is going to be so wonderful, Si.” added Myte. Being explosive experts they knew how to make the most amazing fireworks that would ever be seen. They even ran a few small rehearsals for testing with just their smallest ones. Of course, during the day the fireworks seemed a little dull, but everyone cheered for joy, and couldn’t wait for the big show later at night when the fireworks would really be incredible.

Starla and Krysta were also tasked with helping to decorate the hotel lobby for the party. Lightning really loved how everything was going. “As Professor Brain would probably say,” he imitated Brain’s voice “Satisfactory; most satisfactory.”

“This is going to be such an amazing party.” Krysta giggled with excitement. Starla fluttered over to the large record-player, “And what’s a party without a little music?” She started a record and played a disco theme song. Everyone got into the beat and worked to the music, even Lightning. He really hoped his teacher would love the festivities they were all making for him, so did everyone else.

Things were going very smoothly, until Inquerius entered the hotel to see how things were progressing “What is all this?” she shouted, but no one seemed to hear her over the loud music and being so preoccupied with their work. Inquerius stopped the record-player, causing everyone to eye her. “Did you not hear me? What is all of this? Are you not aware that the Grand Ruler is coming?”

Everyone looked confused, and Lightning approached her. “Of course we know. That’s why we’re preparing this celebration party in honor of his visit.” Inquerius had the look of a strict school teacher on her face at that remark. “Surely you don’t expect that all this is what his majesty will enjoy?” she asked “Have you put no thought into your planning?”

Lightning was more confused than ever as he gazed back at all the things he and his friends had done. “What’s wrong with it?”

Through her complicated way of speaking through questions, Inquerius explained that the Grand Ruler was a very proud and respected creature, the legendary Tri-Horned Alicorn, the ruler and founder of all of Unicornicopia, and the commander-in-chief of Starfleet-- the very same one who saved everyone from Titan’s evil wrath centuries ago, and Lightning’s guardian and mentor.

To Inquerius, she believed that such a well-respected royal creature such as the Grand Ruler would never approve of such frivolous trivialities, and that gala ought to have been more suitable. Through her questions, she implied that there was not to be any loud dancing music, the place should have been decorated with fancy things like chandeliers and statues, and in entertainment-wise, they should amuse themselves with serious conversation instead of childish games and clownish shows and magic tricks.

“I say!” growled Abra “I strongly object to my talents being viewed as childish!”

Lightning also disagreed with Inquerius’ judgment, so did everyone else. They tried to reason with her, but Inquerius insisted they change things up a bit. Seeing no other way to reason with her, everyone quickly changed up things and by nightfall everything was all fixed to Inquerius’ tastes; musicians would be playing classical music, and there would be no rock, jazz, pop, or other things like that. The dining area was neatly prepared, and the tables were all decorated and set promptly, and everyone was all neatly dressed up in formal attire, special tuxedo like outfits, but with official doublets, insignias, service medals, and they still wore transformation insignias in case of danger. Lightning and his friends even wore their dress suits, while Starla wore an elegant pink gown, and long white gloves. Both she and Krysta also wore their hairstyles in proper tight buns, also insisted by Inquerius. “There, now do you agree that things are much better?” she asked.

No one dared respond, but they all annoying rolled their eyes. Some even sighed softly.

Suddenly, one of the ponies dashed through the door and yelled out with excitement “He’s coming! His majesty is nearly here!”

Everyone’s features immediately gleamed with excitement and they were about to dash out like a stampede of rhinos, but Inquerius cleared her throat and glared at them all severely while tapping her foot telling them to act properly! So they all quietly and calmly crowded outside.

Soon the sky was glistening with a mystical light as a golden path seemed to reach down from above arching all the way towards the end of a red carpet that had been rolled out. The royal guards came soaring along the path way and landing on the edging like a fence path, and another set of ponies appeared and sounded the royal fanfare on their trumpets, and the Captain of the guards, whom was female announced loudly and proudly, “Presenting his royal majesty, the ruler of all Unicornicopia and commander-in-chief of Starfleet, The Grand Ruler!”

A small magical comet of light came soaring across from the pathway and in in a bright flash, Grand Ruler stood proudly, with his cape fluttering, and his mane shimmering like the stars while his golden horns gleamed in the moonlight. “Hail Unicornicopia!” he greeted everyone, and everyone cheered for joy. Some of the mares couldn’t help but gaze at him.

“Oh, he is so handsome.”

“And so manly too”

Grand Ruler then gazed at a familiar face, “Ah, Lightning Dawn, my student.”

Lightning got down on one knee, bowing graciously to his mentor. “We are most honored to have you here tonight, master.”

Grand Ruler nodded and announced to everyone that he was most grateful to be there as well. “My inspection is completed, and I am happy to deem the result Satisfactory; most satisfactory.” Everyone applauded, and the Grand Ruler continued with his speech of how proud he was of the planet, Starfleet, and all his subjects. “It is times like this and many others that I am pleased to be your ruler. Though we suffer through difficult time against the evils that threatens our world, it is great thing to see you all continuing to hold your heads high, and under the protection of Starfleet. You are my subjects, but more importantly you are my friends, my family, my brethren, and I only wish for your safety, your happiness and wellbeing as best as I can provide. Together, there will be nothing that can shatter our mighty spirit.”

The crowds cheered loudly, and then came the magic moment when his majesty declared the hotel officially open and cut the big ribbon, and the celebration began as everyone headed back inside. The guards brought his majesty’s luggage to his special suite on the top floor.

Lightning his friends and Inquerius were still outside. “Are you happy now, Inquerius?” Lightning asked annoyingly. Inquerius simply smiled and asked. “Is it not apparent that I am? Perhaps his majesty is already complimenting on such a wonderful and righteous display we have set for him?” That’s when the booming sound of that loud disco music was heard. “Gee, that doesn’t sound like it to me.” said Krysta. Inquerius looked very angry, “I thought I had said no loud music?” She could only imagine the Grand Ruler livid at this outrage, but when they all headed inside, Inquerius was about to apologize to Grand Ruler only be shocked at what she saw...

His majesty was actually dancing to the music with several of the others, and enjoying it too!

“Would you look at him go.” said Buddy Rose as they all watched him step, skid and twirl majestically to the beat. They all decided to run in and join him, even throwing off some of their fancy clothes to loosen up, and Starla pulled a string on her dress making it into a mini-skirt so she could dance. Soon they are all dancing to the groove and beat together, but Inquerius felt so confused, “Am I seeing…? What is…?” then in a blinding rage she stopped the music again shouting “WILL YOU ALL STOP WITH THIS NONSENSE?!”

Everyone, even his majesty was very annoyed and surprised at her attitude. “Really, Inquerius. I'm surprised at you.” he said as he walked over and restarted the music much to Inquerius’ shock. “Relax, come and join the party. Have some fun.” and he went back to dancing with everyone else.

Inquerius was at a loss for words. “How can his majesty be actually enjoying this?” she wondered.

More dancing followed, and then it was time for Abra’s magic show. He was really magnificent with all his tricks, and when he needed a volunteer to help him with another trick, he asked that the Grand Ruler be, and his majesty accepted. Abra put him in a box, and supposedly slashed him with swords that he stuck into the box, only to find the box was empty, and when Abra resealed the box and opened it again, majesty was just fine. Abra received thunderous applause and bowed to everyone.

After the show, Inquerius felt disgusted and apologized to the Grand Ruler “Your highness, will you forgive us for the appalling act that Abra just forced you to do?”

Abra felt annoyed. “Begging your pardon, I did not force his majesty to do anything. I asked him politely.” Grand Ruler nodded in agreement, “… and I was only too delighted.” Inquerius was speechless! She never knew the Grand Ruler to be like this before and always had assumed he was all about posh and seriousness, but everyone else seemed to enjoy his happy and playful attitude, delighted to see that he was neither conceited nor completely devoid of joy and pleasurable times.

Of course there were moments when there would just be plain chitchats and discussions and things. Lightning and his friends were listening to a story of how once his majesty let an attack against a force of angry dragons on the planet Infernos, and also what Unicornicopia was like in olden days, but mostly they enjoyed hearing tales about Lightning’s training, and how one of their most favorite of all pastimes was literature, and dancing.

This brought on an old memory of how one time they combined literature into a dance number. Lightning was given a set of tongue-twisters and poems to recite to improve his speech, but his most favorite was a very special one that both he and his master truly favored. “Shall we?” he asked, and Lightning nodded excitedly. Grand Ruler stood, cleared his throat and recited the poem.

“Moses supposes his toeses are roses,
but Moses supposes erroneously,”
Moses he knowses his toeses aren't roses,
As Moses supposes his toeses to be!”

All the friends felt that was pretty catchy.

“It feels kind of snappy
And my feet feel tappy.” said Rhymey.

“I feel it too.” said Starla.

Buddy Rose tapped his foot gently in rhythm, Artie tapped along adding to the beat. Dyno and Myte began to snap their fingers. Soon they all had a cool rhythm going which captured the attention of everyone else, including Inqueruis. “What is happening now?” she asked.

Lightning and his majesty nodded at one another decided to show her what was going on. The others continued to tap and snap in rhythm and Grand Ruler removed his cape, set it down on a chair, and recited the poem again to the rhythm.

(Skip to 1:10)

“Moses supposes his toeses are roses,
but Moses supposes erroneously.”

Lightning jumped in,

“But…Moses he knowses his toeses aren't roses,
As Moses supposes his toeses to be!”

Then, the musicians began to play their instruments to the right tune as the whole thing became a song and dance number.

Then, in the midst of the song, the two hopped up on one of the strong tables and began tap dancing to the music. Spotlights shone directly on them. Lightning then had a short solo tap, and then his master had a turn, and one by one Lightning’s friends all jumped in, being expert dancers themselves form their years of training, and soon all of them were dancing, taping, twirling, and the crowds just loved it.

At the end of the dance, the gang did a few more steps and few more twirls and all came together and shouted out “…AAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!"”

The crowds cheered and applauded with joy, and Inquerius couldn’t help but applaud as well.

Later on, his majesty was standing outside on the terrace of the hotel catching a breath of air and having some quiet time. He was gazing at all the city lights in the town and admired his kingdom. It all looked so beautiful under the night sky.

Lightning peeked from behind the entrance way, believing his master hadn’t seen him. “Lightning, I know you’re there.” chuckled Grand Ruler “Come keep me company.” Lightning walked to over to his teacher’s side. “I came up to tell you that dinner’s about to be served.” he said. “Ah, splendid; after all the excitement tonight I’m rather famished.”

“Me too.” said Lightning, and then he asked his master “What were you thinking just now?”

“Oh, about how much things have changed over the centuries. Unicornicopia has come a long way since I founded it, but I remember it like it was yesterday; Rainbow City wasn’t here, our technologies weren’t quite as advanced, and neither were our powers. It was also much quieter and peaceful before evil forces began to attack us and Starfleet was formed to combat them.”

Lightning had only studied about Unicornicopia’s younger ages and was never able to imagine living in such times. “Do you ever miss those peaceful times?” he asked.

“Oh, a little…” his mentor replied “But then again, I am pleased to see how far things have come. Actually Lightning, what I miss most is free time, having fun, enjoying life to the fullest. Centuries ago before I became the Grand Ruler I always had such wonderful times with my future subjects. I would teach them all things, we’d all play games, and we’d do other activities like swim, go for a fly, go on picnics, but my most favorite pastime was singing dancing.”

He went on to say that after he was crowned and dubbed as the ruler he became very busy, and now it was only once in a very great while he could kick back, relax or enjoy life and have fun like most did. Being the Grand Ruler was a big responsibility, and making sure the planet was well run, and Starfleet was functioning properly, and that all his subjects got along well was a big job. Some nights he wouldn’t even get to go to bed, or stop to have lunch or a snack when he felt starved. “Nothing is more important to me than the safety, happiness and well-being of my subjects, Lightning, as well as the safety and protection of our world and the worlds beyond.”

Lightning felt deeply touched by his speech. “Sometimes I wonder if I was the Grand Ruler, and I can’t fall asleep for a long time.”

His mentor gazed down at him knowing Lightning was only trying to be funny. “Tell me Lightning, what would you do if you had the chance.”

(Skip to 0:45)

Soft music began to play as Lightning gazed out at the night sky. “If I were in charge, why…” and he began to sing "If I ruled the world..." while voicing his ideas

Grand Ruler chuckled “Sounds like you’d be drunk with power.”

“Oh, I’d be a little ruthless.” Lightning joked. Then his majesty sang his own verse in the song

“Still, that wouldn’t really happen. I could never be some big leader.” Lightning said.

“Oh, I don’t know. I’d vote for you.” said his teacher.

“You would?”

“Certainly”

“Well, why don’t we both rule together?”

“Why don’t we?”

They both continued to sing the words, taking turns, and then finishing together. As the music of the song ended Lightning gazed up at hi master again and asked “Do you think I could ever be a great leader someday?” His mentor placed his hand over his shoulder and gazed at him proudly “All you have to know is this, Lightning; a true ruler is not made by how strong, how rich or good-looking he may be, but by those who choose to follow him. Remember that.”

Lightning smiled, and suddenly it was announced that dinner was about to be served in the lobby. Teacher and student headed down together, and the feast began.

Outside, Titan’s minions stayed hidden in the shadows so not to be caught by the guards or by the searchlights. Rep-Stallion smelled the delightful aromas of the food of the feast and felt his mouth drooling. “Can’t we go now? I just have to get at that food.”

“Stay here!” snapped Dementia. Mysterious agreed, “Our orders were to wait for Lord Titan’s signal. We wait until the fireworks go off, and then the real party begins.”

Cookie Dough’s feast was spectacular. The food was so wonderful; nobody could stop eating, even if they already consumed their fill. “Superb!” Grand Ruler sighed heavenly “My most humble compliments to you, Cookie Dough.”

Cookie Dough felt a little shy. “Your majesty is too kind. If you wish I could come and work for you in the royal palace.”

His majesty wouldn’t hear of it “I could never deprive you from the joy and magnificence you give to the citizens down here, just as everyone has their own place and their own job to do. That is really something to be flattered about, and I only wish to thank you all for such a magnificent night. I can’t remember the last time I had such fun.” He lifted his glass of ice-water, and everyone else toasted with him.

Then, Inquerius stood up and cleared her throat capturing everyone’s attention. “Will you all permit me to extend an apology?” she asked. “Will you all forgive me for the way I had behaved tonight, especially towards you, your majesty?”

Grand Ruler nodded his head and said “Of course. At least now you have learned as well, Inquerius, though I may be royalty, but that doesn’t mean I can’t have a little fun and enjoyment.”

“You deserve it sire.” said Starla “You already do so much for us all. You raise the sun and the moon.”

“You help keep the weather nice and balances of nature.” added Buddy Rose.

“You’re the commander of all of Starfleet,
And helped us all so we can’t be beat.” said Rhymey.

“Why are we just talking about this?” asked Dyno. “Si, why don’t we sing about it?” added Myte. Grand Ruler agreed and signals the musicians to start playing a tune. Lightning stood first and began singing.

(The music only)

(Lightning)

He brings night and day and make sure they go right

(Krysta)

He has three gold horns and they shine oh so bright

(Buddy Rose and Artie)

But he’s mastered such magic that we’ve yet to learn

(Rhymey)

And he can do other things and owns things we all yearn.

(Dyno)

Some just may say that he’s strong brood and pompous

(Myte)

But he’s neither of those, and he will now SHOW US…!

The Grand Ruler just smiled and leapt high out of his seat, clear over the table and landing on the dance floor, and he began to sing and dance and everyone else sang with him.

(Grand Ruler)

I’m just like you!
(We’re just like you…?)
I’m just like you!
(Just like- Just like you…?)

I work hard and stand real tall
I can have fun and have a ball
I have feelings, and I recall
I’m just like you

As he danced about, he invited everyone to come and join him as the musical continued...

I get tough and angry though
Sometimes my day’s work feels slow
But you all feel the same you know.
I’m just like you.
(We’re just like you)

You have problems, so do I
But we’ll hold our heads up high
We can smile laugh and cry
I’m just like you.
(We’re just like you!)

As the song and dancing continued, Dyno and Myte added some extra excitement by starting their fireworks show. The pretty colors and lights of the flares really made this the best party anyone had ever been to. However, the fireworks also alerted Titan’s minions. “There’s signal.” hissed Mysterious “…Let’s go!” and they slunk off while everyone inside was too distracted by the musical

By the song’s end, everyone was doing tricks, dancing, singing, confetti and balloons-- everything looked just like a great big show performance, and Grand Ruler was in the center up front with Lightning and Krysta, and the other Starfleet members, with all the other ponies around them.

I’m just like you.
(We’re just like you)
I’m just like you.
(We’re just like you)

(Lightning)

I’ve no magic, this is true
In many ways I’m not like you.

(Krysta)

And I’m not a pony too
But there are things we both can do

(Grand Ruler)

Now you see it clear and through
We’re all different in a way or two
But in another point of view,

(ALL)

It’s all true…!
I’m/we’re just… like… YOU!!

Right then, at the end of the song, all the lights, even the fires in the many fireplaces went out; making the room pitch black. Many of the ponies panicked, and struggled to get the lights lit again. The emergency lights kicked in, but the windows shattered as Titan’s minions leapt in, and began to cause havoc. They tipped over the tables, wrecked the displays, and even used some of the candles to set things on fire.

Lightning and his friends, joined by other Starfleet fighters and the Grand Ruler’s guards leapt into action to stave off the minions and put out the fires, but before all the chaos got any worse, the huge doors at the entrance of the hotel burst wide open as strong winds blew extinguishing all the flames. Lightning and thunder shook the skies, and he appeared “Titan!” Lightning cried.

A horrific silence fell in the lobby. Nobody made a single sound or could even blink their eyes. This was no puppet. This was the real thing! The original! The single most dreaded villain the entire Space alicorn race, and possible the entire dimensional universe had ever known!

Grand Ruler felt his anger spiking. “I was afraid of this.” he muttered under his breath “All of you prepare yourself. This isn’t going to be smooth.”

Titan could only stand there laughing and cackling deeply and wickedly.

To Be Continued…

(Promo)

In our next episode, Titan reveals his history and how he came to be, which leads to an incredible brawl that could very well decide the fate of the planet and the entire dimensional universe, but facing against the real Titan and not one of his inferior puppets proves to be a very difficult struggle.

What will the outcome of the battle lead to? Who will triumph over whom?

Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic!”

(Next Episode: “A Night to Remember Part 2”)

Episode 11: A Night to Remember: Part 2

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Episode 12: Dangerous Discoveries

EPISODE TWELVE

It had been weeks since the showdown with Titan took place, and since then not a single new monster had appeared. Still, Starfleet kept to training and patrolling to watch out for any further attacks. After all, Titan’s minions were still out there, and so were other dangers just waiting to appear.

Lightning and his friends spent most of their free-time training to keep their strengths up. All of Lightning’s friends were also eager to perfect new spells for their magic and weapons, and hoped to develop finishing attacks to use against foes, like senior officers had. So far they had barely managed to conjure up the right power, and were finding it difficult to control, but they didn’t get discouraged and continued to train.

The friends also spent time studying hard and training in preparation for their astronaut tests to earn the authority to travel into space. Lightning was a shoo-in to pass his exam, already having the most experience of traversing from one planet to another.

Lightning even agreed to give them private tutoring lessons, sharing his knowledge of Dimensional Space. “Our universe is known to be a multi-dimensional, magical realm unlike most parallel universes; our space has a breathable atmosphere, and comfortable temperature.”

He also explained about the mystical dimensional-pathways everyone had heard of; magical roads that connected from one place to another allowing travelers to move instantaneously between destinations, almost like traveling down a super-fun-happy slide. One could travel between whole star-systems in a matter of seconds, depending of course how far away the destination would be, and then it would probably take a little longer.

“But why do we use these pathways anyway?” asked Buddy Rose.

“Yeah.” added Artie “After all if we can breathe and survive in space; can’t we just fly to nearby planets by ourselves?”

Starla shook her head “I’ve studied into that, and according to my research. The pathways provide stable points of entry and exit when traveling through space.”

Lightning agreed with her and offered his own profound knowledge form his studies and experiences. “You see, Dimensional Space exists above normal space. There is air we can breathe, and the temperature may be soothing, but the voice of space itself consists of highly powerful and unstable teleportation energies.

How this energy works and functions is still a great mystery to all known space-travelers, but the most commonly known factor is this: If you try to enter dimensional space with no pathway or proper protection... or if you stray from the path and fall into space, you will be instantaneously teleported to a random spot anywhere in the entire galaxy, or even the universe-- There’s no telling where you’d end up”

The others all felt shivers run down their spines at such a thought. Rhymey thought of all the possible places one could end up…

“You could appear above a burning star,
or even in a black hole if you warp too far.
A planet with no air, no food, or sea,
or before a giant beast snarling at you hungrily.”

The Spanish twins nearly leapt out of their seats at such a thought. “Well, at least it seems that planets stars and other forms of rock and energy aren't affected.” said Dyno. “Si, can you imagine if our planet just kept on popping in and out from place to place?” added Myte, and everyone imagined the planet being tossed around so much by constant teleportation that everyone suffered from vertigo. “…Santo cielo!” *MY God!*groaned Myte.

“Well, at least now that we know all this, we should be able to pass our tests with ease.” Krysta said.

The others agreed and continued their studies.

Sure enough when it came time for their tests they passed with flying colors, by traveling to the moon and back again safely, and they were presented their official astronaut wings by Grand Ruler, but it was going to be a while yet before they were approved to actually go on any space missions to other planets, but still the friends were totally thrilled especially Starla. She was finally achieving her life’s goal. Lightning was very happy for her, but this was practically the only most exciting thing that had happened to them all month since Titan’s vanquish. Not that they were wishing for the planet to be attacked or anything.

Still, regular life continued. Colts and fillies went to school and played with their friends. Others went to work. Lightning continued to study and work his duties as town helper. He also had more time to help Krysta search for her home world, whatever and wherever it was. “If only we had some sort of clue that could help us.” Lightning said.

“That would make it easier.” added Krysta “Still, I’m not so sure.”

“Not sure about what?”

Krysta hesitated for a moment, and then admitted that as exciting as it would be to learn of her origins and discover who she really was, “What would I say? What would I do? My entire life might change forever.” Krysta clearly had a case of the nerves. It was as if she didn’t know if she really wanted to discover her roots or not. “Well, first we have to find it.” Lightning said “But in the meantime we better stay sharp too. Titans minions are still out there, and who knows when they may strike again?”

Ever since the fight, Titan’s minions had been going crazy trying to figure out ways to get back at Starfleet. They hadn’t even bothered to send any new monsters after them knowing there was no point and they’d beat them, and since the last battle, having already used a ton of their magic monster dust, their pouches were nearing the end of their supplies anyway.

They decided that they needed to find something stronger. Fortunately that day, they had discovered Titan left a note to his minions in case something would happen to him. The note turned out to be a map of something had hidden somewhere on the Dark Planet that would ensure his minions could carry on. They had been wandering around the planet for what seemed like a long time. “Are you sure we’re on course?” groaned Rep-Stallion. “My feet are killing me.”

Dementia felt she needed a hair job badly from sweating so much. “If this turns out to be a rip-off why I’ll--”

“Will you two knock it off?!” snapped Mysterious “According to this, Lord Titan hid his secret somewhere around here.”

They searched around the decayed ruins, shoving the rocks and soils out of the way. “Eww…!” cried Dementia “Now I need more than a makeover after this.” The other just ignored her and kept on searching. Suddenly, Rep-Stallion felt this scythe clang into something. “Hey I found something!” he hollered.

The others rushed over to see him pull out a small box. “What do you think it is?” asked Mysterious. They were about to find out as the box began to glow, and spin round and around, faster and faster, and it opened wide giving off a bright flash of light from a small object.

“What’s happening?” asked Mysterious.

“I feel strange?” cried Rep-Stallion.

“Wait! Listen!” said Dementia.

It was Titan, or rather an illusionary, holographic message of him

“My minions, if you have found this hidden treasure it means I am no longer with you, but the war against our enemies must continue. This treasure shall provide you with the power you need, but you must beware of how you use them, and you must train well to ensure your handling of them

Go now… and continue the reign of chaos.”

As Titan’s voice faded, the minions were bathed in glowing flares of light from the treasure, and began to feel very different!

Buddy Rose was working in his garden and Lightning and Krysta were helping him and Artie was there painting a picture of some of the flowers and the fence. “What do you think?” he asked when he was finished.

“It’s beautiful!” exclaimed Krysta.

“Really captures the likeness.” added Buddy Rose.

Artie thanked them for the compliments, but now he was starting to feel bored. There still no attacks, and despite being licenced astronauts, they still hadn’t been given any assignment. “When are we going to see some action?” he asked aloud, and right at that second the alarms sounded and the civilians all began to run for shelter. “Well, we did ask for it.” said Lightning.

Word had already come in the danger was coming from the town of O-Range, Artie’s hometown, and off they ran.

O-Range was almost pretty much like being in a western terrain. Not much grass or vegetation, but plenty of water-holes, streams, and orange trees all in groves too, but that was exactly where the trouble was coming from. The gang could see it as they neared the danger area. “The groves, they’re on fire!” cried Artie.

“Let’s put it out!” cried Krysta.

“No! Wait!” said Lightning. As he and the others flew in closer they couldn’t smell the smoke, and the flames didn’t even feel hot. “It’s just an illusion.” Lightning said. That’s when the illusions of the flames faded and Titan’s three minions appeared. “So you’ve finally showed yourselves again.”

Mysterious sniggered, “It’s been a while and we had some thinking to do.” He teased, but this made the others realize that he, a shadow, was standing outdoors in broad daylight and didn’t get hurt from the sunlight. Mysterious only grinned wickedly and said “You seem puzzled.”

“Oh, that’s the least of your troubles.” said Rep-Stallion “In just a few moments you’ll really be in trouble.”

The gang stood ready. “All right, so where is this new monster of yours?” asked Lightning.

Dementia giggled “Whoever said it was going to be a monster? You’re fighting us this time!” Her eyes began to glow, and so did Mysterious and Rep’s.

“What’s going on?” asked Krysta, but she and the others got their answer as the evil demon-corns began to magically transform mysterious human-shaped demons wearing armor, helmets, capes, and they also looked much stronger. The gang just stared in awe and were rather speechless. “Guys!” cried Buddy Rose “Tell me I’m just dreaming…” but the others knew this was as real as anything.

“Take a good look at us now!” hissed Mysterious “You’ll soon find your pitiful magic and skills are no match for our newly acquired powers.” Rep-Stallion grasped his new double-bladed staff and held it high. “Lord Titan shall be avenged, and our reign will carry on.” Dementia clenched her fists sight “Let’s do this!” she hissed and they began to charge forth.

Feeling overconfident, Lightning and friends transformed “STARFLEET MAGIC!!”, once that was done, they immediately used their visors to try and scan the minions new powers, but unfortunately the results came as “Type Unknown: No Available Data”

“What, no data?” snapped Lightning “It must be a new kind of magic that we’ve never seen before. Everyone, be on your guard.” the others agreed. Buddy-Rose went after Dementia “LEAF SWARM” he fired his razor-leafs, but Dementia’s new armor merely deflected them right off of her leaving her without a scratch.

“Huh?!” remarked Buddy. Dementia winked at him. “I think you need to cool off a bit. DANCE OF ICE” She twirled round and around on one foot like a skilled dancer creating and blizzard-wave of snow and ice that blew right at Buddy, “Whoa! AAAHH! That’s cold!” he cried. Some of the ice crystals were large and rammed into his armor, pushing him back hard. Dementia was enjoying this.

Artie and Rep-Stallion were going at it hard-- Rep’s scythe against Artie’s staff. They parried and clashed several times with each other’s weapon and met in a staff-lock, but Rep managed to get the upper hand and shove Artie of the way and knocking his staff out of his hands. “That’s it!” growled Artie “Now I’m angry! PAINT BOMB” and he launched a swarm of his explosive blobs. Not a single one missed and Rep-Stallion was buried in the explosions. Artie panted and puffed after launched that many shots, but as the smoke settled, “No! It can’t be…!” Rep-Stallion stood there without even an ash on him. He just smiled wickedly, “Oh, I am so hurt!” he mocked “Now it’s your turn. THE BITE OF LIGHTNING” whirling his staff round and around like a propeller above his head, he conjured up heavy bolts of lightning which Artie had a hard time dodging, and he got hit more times than he dodged.

Lightning and Krysta were about to have their own hard luck dealing with Mysterious. The evil creature stared them down and approached them slowly “Look… Lightning Dawn just accept the fact that you and your friends can’t beat us now… it’s easier that way.” Lightning and Krysta refused to give in and decided to take their chances. “Here I come, ready or not.” shouted Lightning as he dashed forward, but Mysterious just stood where he was, not moving an inch, and actually let Lightning ram into him headfirst, despite still being a shadow, and he didn’t stop until he had whammed Mysterious right up against a large pole.

“Yeah, way to go Lightning!” cried Krysta, but then to her and Lightning’s shock. Mysterious, unfazed by the attack, grabbed Lightning by the horn, and gave him a huge toss the other way. “UGH! AH!”

Krysta was livid and felt a burst of rage building up inside her. She angrily turned to face Mysterious, but realizing how large he was, she quickly backed off like a scared cat. Lightning, wasn’t too hurt, but he couldn’t believe how strong Mysterious and the others had become. Buddy Rose and Artie huddled near him. “Our best shots don’t even make them flinch.” said Artie “Even our magic blasts won’t work.”

“What are we going to do?” asked Buddy

“That’s easy…” Mysterious said while sniggering as he waved his arms round and around “Sit back and have a taste of my new power; THE HAMMER OF EVIL” Dark waves of intense energy formed over his head. “LOOK OUT!” cried Krysta, and she and others scattered out of the way before the blast hit them, making a huge crater in the ground where they were. Lightning was more devastated than ever. “I can’t believe they have that much magic and power! Where did they get it from?” That was what everybody wanted to know.

All three of the evil ones stood together and slowly crept towards the helpless gang, snickering and glaring at them with evil eyes. “Which should we take out first?” Dementia wondered aloud. “How about all of them at once?” sneered Rep-Stallion “Just what I was thinking” hissed Mysterious.

Just as they were about to fire, they were attacked from the side by many attacks. Buddy Rose and Artie tried to use their new powers or finisher moves, only to flop in humiliation; they barely got their weapons to glow for any longer than five seconds due to their need of more training. Lightning felt almost embarrassed “This is not happening!” he groaned.

The minions laughed hysterically at their feeble attempts. “And here we thought you’d actually surprise us.” Dementia teased.

“Here, let us show you how it’s done.” said Rep-Stallion. Lightning and the others all inched away slowly and fearfully unsure of what to do. “Lightning can’t you try the Rainbow Rod?” asked Krysta. “It won’t work any different.” cried Lightning “I don’t know what can stop these guys.”

Just as the minions were about to fire, they were attacked from the side by many attacks; they got pelted by magic ray-blasts from behind, distracting them, but not hurting them much at all.

Lightning and the others looked up and smiled at the sight of their friends. One-by-one they dropped down.

“Starla…!”

“Dyno and Myte…!”

“Never fear,”
Rhymey is here!

The others had never been so happy to see their friends, and in such timing, but now was not the time to exchange in pleasantries. The minions were still unharmed by the blasts. “So, now you’re all together? How marvelous.” chuckled Mysterious.

“Now we can get rid of you all in one easy swoop.” said Dementia.

Rep-Stallion chuckled and licked the blades of his scythe. “Let’s get them!” They all charged forward, when suddenly they stopped. Next they were groaning and moaning as they held their heads in pain and fell to their knees.

“What’s happening to them?” asked Starla.

“They seemed so strong before,
But they don’t seem tough anymore.” said Rhymey.

Their visors still didn’t have much information on the minions’ actual powers and forms, but medical-scans showed the minions were losing physical-strength badly. It was their new powers; the minions hadn’t practiced and mastered with their new strengths, just like Titan’s note had warned them. That’s why they were suddenly so weak, and before anyone knew it. The minions had changed back to their original forms.

“This can’t be!” growled Mysterious “Our powers failed us!”

“Uh, Mysterious, that’s not our only problem.” cried Rep-Stallion

The gang now stood with the odds in their favor. “My how the tables have turned.” teased Lightning. “You guys are in some trouble now.” added Krysta. With the gang’s powers still high, the minions wouldn’t stand a chance in their weak condition. Dementia whimpered nervously “Listen uh… this has been fun… but uh-- bye!” and she and others vanished quickly before anything else happened.

The gang all sighed in relief but were now all very concerned. It was now obvious that the minions were much stronger but would need time to master their new powers. “What can we do now?” asked Starla.

“Our best shots were barely able to tickle them.” added Buddy Rose. Both they and the others turned to Lightning, who was just as stumped as they were. “We need to see the Grand Ruler, Now!”

(Skip to 1:41)

The gang took off high into the skies already, and soon were nearing the Grand Ruler’s grand palace floating twenty-thousand feet above Rainbow City, and the atmosphere was not any thinner even at this altitude, so it was still safe to breathe.

The others were awed and amazed at the beautiful sight of palace and all its many towers and other features, and Lightning and Krysta felt slightly strange seeing their old home after all this time. The giant structure rested on a floating rock which kept it afloat thanks to super-special engines built into its interior. The engines themselves were hydro and solar powered; unlimited collecting compensation from the clouds, and the sunlight and moonlight.

“Um, Lightning.” Starla asked nervously “Just out of curiosity, what if the engines were damaged, or destroyed?”

Lightning's features curled “You’re joking...! Then the palace would come crashing down on the city like an asteroid. At such a height, the impact would make such a huge shock-wave that would demolish the entire city.”

All the others felt shocked at such a thought, but their minds were eased due to the fact it wasn’t too likely to happen. Knowing his majesty had teams of technicians running round-the-clock shifts and that maintenance was always cared for.

They arrived at the front gates, but were stopped by the sentries that denied them entry without a proper appointment. “I am The Grand Ruler’s apprentice.” Lightning said to them “We know…” snapped one of the guards “But his majesty left strict rules; no entry without proper admittance or scheduled appointment.”

Suddenly, the large doors suddenly opened wide, followed by the Grand Ruler’s echoing voice from afar saying “Let them pass. I have been expecting them.” The guard’s did as they were told and the gang dashed past them and into the main-entrance hall. They walked down the long corridor to the big doors at the end which opened wide and showed the Grand Ruler sitting majestically on his throne. He stood upright as the gang bowed to him and he bowed back. “Master, forgive us for this intrusion.” Lightning said.

“It’s all right, Lightning.” his mentor assured them all “I already said I was expecting you to come, or I would have sent for you.” he clapped his hands twice, and his servants brought out a small feast that was prepared in anticipation of the arrivals. “I thought you might be starved after such an ordeal.”

The ponies smiled and bowed thankfully to him, and then everyone sat down to eat. His majesty asked for their quick reports on the battle and after her heard it all-- “It will take time for Titan’s minions to master and control their newfound powers, and we can rest assured they will return to strike again, and your currents powers are simply not enough to beat them.”

“We were barely able to even stand up to them before they had this magic.” said Artie.

“Yeah, and we didn’t stand much of a chance against them already. Once they master those new powers, they’ll cream us for sure.” added Buddy Rose.

“Well, there must be something we can do,
Like maybe train for a week or two?” suggested Rhymey, but the others weren’t too keen that would help. “I don’t think we have the time, Rhymey.” said Starla.

“Starla is correct.” said Grand Ruler “The minions could master their new skills at any time, and your constant training already has proven its limitations. It will not enough.”

It was already agreed they would all somehow have to find a faster way to get stronger and increase their powers. Grand Ruler though it over a moment and then said “There just might be a way.” Capturing everyone’s interest, and when they all finished eating he told everyone to follow him.

He led everyone to a large stone doorway hidden near the top level of the highest tower in the center of the palace. The door was sealed with a strong spell that only his majesty was able to break. He leaned forward and inserted his three golden horns into the special keyholes and unlocked the door. As the stone doors slid open and everyone saw a glowing, mystical vortex.

“Wow!” exclaimed Krysta.

“It’s a space-warp portal.” added Lightning. These were celestial objects normally used to travel into space between planets where dimensional pathways were connected. The Grand Ruler had sealed this portal within his palace to prevent potential risks to others who were untrained in space-travel.

“What does this have to do with us?” asked Starla.

“I will explain.” replied Grand Ruler, and told hoy that when he first arrived to create and colonize Unicornicopia, he had forged a set of treasures he called the Star Stones. They were infused with incredible powers he had discovered and harnessed as he grew stronger in magic and battle. He felt that someday they would be very useful, but decided against to keeping them all together, for fear of drawing attention to evil ones who sought power. Not willing to allow the dark forces to get their hands on the star stones or even to guess of their existence, he scattered them across several dimensional planets.

The others were starting to realize what this meant. “You mean… we have to go out there, and find them?” asked Buddy Rose.

“Yes.” Grand Ruler answered. “After all, you are fully licensed astronauts. Normally I don’t allow freshman on such dangerous assignments without at least a year or two of proper experience, but giving Lightning’s past experience of wandering, and all that you all have been through already coupled without desperation, I am willing to make the exception. We must get those stones. They will help accelerate your natural strengths and powers and may even help you unlock abilities that you never believed possible, and will serve you well in the upcoming battles against Titan’s minions, and other foes we shall face.”

“But, what are we supposed to do in the meantime?” asked Dyno. “Yeah, what if the minions return and we don’t have the power?” added Myte.

Grand Ruler chuckled, shut his eyes and bowed his head. His golden horns glowed, and then right up through the floor magically appeared a star-shaped gem, half white and half violet. It sparkled like the stars in the sky, and a single silver star lay in the very center. Everyone gazed in awe at its stunning beauty.

“But how?” asked Dyno.

“You said you hid the stones.” added Myte

“I never said that I had hid all of them.” replied Grand Ruler. “This is one of the four magic Star Stones. I kept it because I felt someday its great power would be needed. I can't believe how correct I was. Nevertheless it should grant you a small boost of power to help you now.

Come and kneel before me, all of you, and accept what you are about to be given.”

The gang all did as they were told, and knelt before his majesty. Grand Ruler held the star stone up high and it began to glow and emit sparkling, shimming, magical waves. The waves flew in great circles above the gang and bathing them within their enchanting glow. Then, all was quiet.

The ponies opened their eyes, but they didn’t feel any different. “What happened?” asked Starla.

“I don’t feel any stronger than I did before.” said Buddy Rose.

“Perhaps the magic didn’t work?
The stone would not give us the perk?” said Rhymey.

Grand Ruler assured them that the stone did grant them its help, whether they felt it or not. “All will be made clear to you in time.” he assured them “But to grow stronger, you will need to continue your training and recover the remaining three star stones, but always remember that no matter what magic you may face, no matter what hardship you may endure, or whatever evil force you come into contact with; your courage, faith, believing, and you’re good intentions are the greatest gifts that could ever be found within and no other force and truly take it from you. They will always be there for you… as will I.” He bowed to the gang and they bowed to him again.

The quest for the Star Stones had begun!

(Promo)

In our next episode, Lightning, at the advice of his friends considers asking Starla out on a date. Meanwhile, Titan’s minions discover a way of creating a whole new type of monster merged of all three kinds of their forces and may prove to be a bit much for the gang to handle.

Will Lightning and Starla’s date end well, or will the minions’ triumph in their conquest?

Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic!”

(Next Episode: “Three To One!”)

Episode 13: Three to One

EPISODE THIRTEEN

The Grand Ruler was now or days busy calculating just which worlds housed the remaining three star stones. It has been one-thousand years since had originally hid them was a long time, and anything could’ve had happened to them. Already he had seen they were not in the original hiding places, but he had also sent messages to his many other Starfleet legions one other worlds he knew of and ordered them to seek out any information regarding the location of the stones, it would help make their search slightly easier, but it would take time to find them.

So many questions pondered Lightning and Friends minds about the stones, but there no point in researching as there were no records or information regarding them, as Grand Ruler had wanted to so evil ones would never guess of their existence. All they could do was wait, and wonder.

Lightning kept staring at himself in his mirror but still couldn’t feel or notice anything new about him since the power of the first stone worked its magic. “Take it easy, Lightning.” said Krysta “We’ll all know what’s changed about us soon enough.”

Lightning sighed, but knew she was right. “Come on, let’s go. Answers or not, we still have jobs to do in our normal lives.”

Meanwhile, Titans minions had taken their humiliation from the last battle rough, and had ever since been training hard to master their new powers, but it would take time. “This is intolerable!” snapped Mysterious “Here we are, forced to stay here and train while we could be avenging the fall of our master.”

“Isn’t there something we can do, maybe send a monster?” asked Rep-Stallion, but he suddenly remembered that ever since the battle before Titan was vanquished, their supply of monster dust was dangerously low. They only had dust left to make one or maybe two new monsters at the most. Even still their hopes were not high. “Every monster we ever sent ended up a miserable failure.” said Dementia.

The other others agreed with her, but suddenly Mysterious had an idea. “Wait, I think I know of a way.” The others gazed at him with interest and he softly whispered his idea for a whole new monster. None of them said anything, but snickered sinisterly.

Lightning had a long hard day of training, doing his community job helping others, and after sunset he was finishing up his last job at Yellow Hills-- doing odd jobs for the elderly; washing their windows, mowing their lawns, painting fences. Krysta helped him, but they both felt pretty tired after work and could hardly wait to get home.

The lampposts had lit, and the stars began to shimmer in the skies. “It’s so beautiful tonight.” Krysta said “Sure is.” agreed Lightning. “It’s almost romantic.” He had that same goofy expression on his face that Krysta only recognized when Lightning was thinking of something else, or rather someone else.

As they set off for home, Lightning could suddenly see Starla nearby with her telescope doing some astronomy. She liked to come out to open places so see whole other areas of the sky. Lightning saw her, and he got that warm feeling inside again just gazing at her under the moonlight. He was so wrapped up that he didn’t watch where he was going and bumped right into Rhymey, making him drop his shopping bags, breaking it and spilling everything.

“Careful please,
You spilled my groceries.” he snapped.

The sounds had alerted Starla and she saw what was happening and she offered to help gather the groceries. She and Lightning reached for one of the cans of soup and their hands touched. Their eyes met, they giggled softly and then quickly scrambled about almost trying to ignore that, but both Krysta and Rhymey exchanged playful looks of disdain at the way they had acted.

They all helped Rhymey carry his groceries to his house down the lane. Rhymey thanked them all, and then Starla had to leave for her next destination for star gazing. “I’ll see you guys later. Bye Lightning…!” then she took off, but Lightning couldn’t stop gazing at her. Even when she went out of sight he was still standing there.

He was suddenly snapped out of his trance by Rhymey and Krysta snickering softly. “What?”

“Oh Lightning, are falling for me?” Krysta teased said pretending to be Starla.

Rhymey teased him too by chanting…

“Starla and Lightning sitting in a tree
…K-I-S-S-I-N-G.”

Lightning felt embarrassed and a little. “That’s not how one addresses their superior officer, Rhymey.” But then again he just couldn’t blame “Okay, you got me. I really like Starla. I mean, she’s pretty, smart, brave, she’s very helpful-- Who wouldn’t like her.”

“So what are you waiting for? Ask her out.” said Krysta

Lightning’s face went redder than ever, and his tail gave a big twitch “You mean… like… on a date?” he asked nervously. “Oh, I… I don’t think I can do that. I mean, I’m her superior and the code says no fraternizing when on duty, and…and… oh!”

The others could tell he was just being shy.

Rhymey nodded and said...

“Just ask, and there’s no doubt.
I know Starla would love to go out.”

Lightning still didn’t feel sure. “I don’t know if Starla would really want to.” he said as he headed for door to leave, but when he opened it he found standing there and was just about to knock. They both were startled at first and then smiled at one another. Starla had merely come because she forgotten a can of soup from Rhymey’s groceries was still in her pocket, and she overheard what Lightning had just said at the door and asked “I’d want to what?”

Lightning could feet his pulse racing and temperature rising. “Well… actually… I uh…um…! It’s nothing! I got to go. See ya! Bye!” and he quickly ran past her and down the road so fast.

Starla blinked once and was most confused. “Is he okay.” she asked Krysta and Rhymey but they sulked in disappointment, and decided to tell her.

A few blocks away, Lightning was just pressing his head against a tree and feeling like a complete idiot. “Some brave pony I am, and all because of this.” He groaned to himself. “Oh! How can I face her again?”

He continued to sigh as he sat against the tree, but was startled again when Starla came up to him. “Lightning, are you feeling alright?” Starla asked.

Lightning felt his nerves rising again. “Who, me-- Uh, sure, why do you ask?”

Starla giggled nervously at the way he stammered, but she herself felt a bit nervous. She twiddled her fingers softly. “Look, I… I was wonder if… maybe-- Would you like to go out with me tomorrow when we’re off duty?”

Lightning felt so strange he couldn’t describe it, and he stammered worse than ever, but managed to say. “Yeah, sure-- I’d love to.”

Starla smiled and the two of them agreed to meet in the afternoon at Pinkie Parks, the biggest amusement park in the entire kingdom; the perfect place for a first date. Then Starla headed for off feeling all excited, and as for Lightning, he just sat where he was, completely still for a moment, and then he suddenly began to laugh softly and bashfully.

Krysta and Rhymey saw the whole thing from nearby and winked at one another. They told Starla about Lightning and talked her into asking him out herself, figuring it would help Lightning a great deal than putting more pressure on him.

The next day in the afternoon, Lightning went to the entrance of Pinkie Parks. A lot of it was colored in pink, but the rest of the area round the land seemed pretty normal; Fields of green grass with picnic-tables, a small pond where ducks and frogs.

Lightning felt very nervous. He had never been on a date before and hoped he wouldn’t mess things up or do anything stupid. Suddenly, Starla came along almost directly after Lightning did. “Hey, you made it.” he said to her. “Sure did.” Starla answered. They soon found they were staring into each other’s eyes again, and turned away giggling. Then they went into the park together under the watchful eyes of Rhymey and Krysta, who wanted to see everything.

“I still don’t think this is right.
Spying on our friends just isn’t polite.” said Rhymey.

“We’re not spying…” said Krysta “We’re making sure they’re having fun. Look at them.”

They watched as Lightning and Starla went on the rides, played some games, and even got some snacks from the concession-stands. They seemed to be both having a greater time than anyone, even some of the other dating couples. They even seemed to warming up more and more to each other.

“Oh, I see now, and I agree,
Our friends are getting along so nicely.” said Rhymey.

Krysta nodded in agreement “That’s what being close friends is all about.” She said, and she began to sing while at the same time, Starla and Lightning continued to enjoy their date…

Starla and Lightning had fun on the roller coaster the most, and they went through a horror-tunnel, and Lightning won Starla a giant stuffed-bear playing at the games. He got a big peck on the cheek for that, and blushed. He almost fainted too, and Starla just giggled.

Starla tried to repay the favor by wining Lightning something… but she wasn’t as good at the games as he was… Except for the archery game, and with her, it was a synch for her master skills with the bow.

Soon, Lightning and Starla were actually sharing a milkshake together.

By sundown, Starla and Lightning had gone away from the theme-park and were sitting by a bonfire in the outer fields. “Wow. What a day.” sighed Lightning. “Yeah, I can’t remember the last time I had this much fun. It’s more fun than star gazing” said Starla. “Thank you, Lightning.”

Lightning smiled, “Hey, you’re the one who asked me out.” Starla smiled back at him. The stars soon came out and they would have to be getting home soon, but they just didn’t seem to want to leave yet. This all felt so nice and soothing.

“Starla?”

“Yes?”

“Why did you ask me out though?”

Starla felt a little embarrassed and blushed softly “Well, actually, I wanted to ask you out for some time but I was too nervous.”

“You… You were?” Lightning asked while blushing softly, and Starla innocently nodded while gazing deep into his eyes. “Rhymey and Krysta also told me you were embarrassed.”

Lightning felt his cheeks go really red now, but suddenly they both heard a small rustling coming from nearby, and it didn’t take much for them to know who it was. “Come on out, you guys.” Lightning called to them. The two came out from the shrubs.

“Forgive us, Lightning, do,
We only did it to help you.” confessed Rhymey.

“Besides, you didn’t even tell us not to tell her. So we didn’t really do anything wrong.” added Krysta. Lightning couldn’t really hold it against them and smiled. “Thanks, you guys. I appreciate it.”

Rhymey and Krysta smiled, but suddenly-- BOOM! Titan’s minions appeared in their regular forms. “Great! Just what we needed.” grumbled Lightning.

“Sorry to spoil the moment,” hissed Mysterious “But we have a little plan of our own to dispatch.”

“Get ready, punks!” snickered Rep-Stallion. He licked his scythe once. “You’re about to deal with one of the fiercest types of monsters we’ve ever dished out.” added Dementia. The others all stood together, and then watched as the minions each cast their monster-dusts on three objects; the tree, a rock, and the bonfire itself. “What’s going on?” asked Starla, and then they all saw the three forces merge into one ferocious beast! Sure enough, the monster appeared as fused form of rock, tree parts like roots and vines, and glowing hotspots in between almost like lava. The minions could hardly decide what to even call it; but agreed to call it Fusor!

“Come on, guys!” snapped Lightning, and then he and others transformed “STARFLEET MAGIC!!” and quickly scanned Fusor with their visors, and as they expected and feared, his power levels were way high! This wasn’t going to be like most of the monsters they had faced before. “Good luck with this one chumps.” Rep-Stallion mocked, and then he and his comrades vanished and left them at the mercy of Fusor.

Starla and Rhymey got out their weapons…

“STAR BOW”

“WARD SWORD”

Lightning dashed ahead first, but got kicked away by Fusor’s mighty strength.

Rhymey then leapt high up and over, ready to strike the monster, but he got punched aside. “Ow! Wow!” He wasn’t hurt too much, but that punch was very strong, and so burning to the touch that his armor was slightly scorched.

The others were shocked, but didn’t let it scare them. Starla went up next, “STARLIGHT ARROW!” Her arrow struck the monster hard in his its chest, but Fusor didn’t so much as even flinch.

Krysta couldn’t even get close to the beast to try and attack it herself with her strength, and nearly got batted away. “The three elements are making him too strong.” The monster held out its arms and long strong vines shot out ensnaring Starla.

“Starla!” cried Lightning. He angrily charged at the monster shouting, “Okay, you, let her go right now!” The monster glared at Lightning and stomped its foot, shaking the ground hard and causing Lightning to fall. “Whoa! Ugh! Okay, I didn’t see that coming.”

Krysta angrily flew forward and used her powers to pick up and throw huge rocks, which were but all she was make it angry. “Uh oh!” squeaked Krysta as she watched the monster draw in a huge breath and blew out a huge burst of flames Krysta barely evaded. “Oh, sure, it just has to breathe fire too!” she grumbled.

Starla was still bound in the monster’s vines, and the more Starla struggled to break free, the tighter the grip felt. “I can… hardly… breathe!” she groaned. Rhymey dashed over and tried to slash the vines with his sword, but CLANG! The vines were like steel, and the words got badly dented and scratched, nearly devastating Rhymey.

“Ah! My sword’s dent,
Twisted and bent!”

Nevertheless, he continued to try and free Starla by pulling on the vines with his own strength, but they were just as strong as ever, and even sizzling to the touch. Rhymey could almost feel the burn through his gloves!

Lightning tried to charge the monsters again, only to have it stomp its foot and knock him down again. Then it tried to roast him with its flames, but Lightning rolled out of the way. “This is nuts!” he growled, then he too was ensnared by vines from the monster’s other arm. “And this is getting bad!” he cried.

“No! Lightning!” cried Krysta. Now only she and Rhymey were still free, but left with hardly any options. Rhymey couldn’t break the vines, and Krysta didn’t stand a chance from the start. Starla couldn’t last much longer under the strain, and Lightning was starting to feel the burn. “It can’t… end like this!” he growled.

From within Titan’s lair, the minions were watching the battle and laughing with glee. “I can’t believe it! We’re really going to do It.” cried Rep-Stallion. “Perhaps we won’t need to master our new given powers after all.” added Dementia. “When the monster has succeeded and our enemies are defeated, then I will agree.”

Lightning could barely breathe and could feel the burning eating away at the suit under his armor. “No!” he suddenly shouted. He tried and tried with all his might but it seemed as if he couldn’t’ break free. Still he kept trying. Starla and Rhymey continued to struggle too, and Krysta was still not willing to give up, even though she didn’t stand too much of a chance. The monster had them all in its sights and drew in a huge breath for a great big fiery breath. “No!” cried Starla “He’s… going to… roast us alive!”

“I won’t give in!
I know we can win!” shouted Rhymey

“We can do this!” cried Krstya.

“Yes!” Lightning said deeply, “WE CAN!” that’s when he began to feel the burn. Not from the monster’s grip, but rather from within his own body. Starla felt it too, so did Rhymey, and Krysta.

The minions watched in confusion and starting to lose patience, “What’s taking so long?” snarled Dementia.

“What’s going on down there?” growled Rep-Stallion.

Mysterious said nothing and stood there were a puzzled expression on his face and muttered “It cannot be!”

Lightning struggled hard, and all of a sudden he burst through the vines using his own brute-strength! Rhymey, however, was still in the way as the monster blew his fiery breath, and he didn’t dodge in time and got hit hard, but strangely he didn’t feel the flames all that much and suffered hardly any damage.

The gang were puzzled at first, but had never felt anything like it. They suddenly felt so much stronger, and Lightning realized. “It’s the power of the star stone!” cried Lightning “I guess it finally kicked in.”

“I’ve never felt like this before.” said Starla.

“This is incredible!” Krysta said “I feel like I could move a whole mountain over my head.”

Rhymey gripped his sword tightly, and it magically repaired itself. It now looked shiner and sharper than ever. He couldn’t even feel the magic inside of him soaring.

“It feels so strong and new,
Now let’s see what it can do!”

The monster seemed furious, and began to stomp towards the gang.

It was about to stomp its huge feet to make the ground shake. But the unicorns leapt up high at the last moment to avoid the tremors. Starla hovered over the monster, and decided to try her one of her newest attacks she had trained for. “PULSAR LASER” and she fired a humungous blast from her horn right at Fusor, damaging him hard.

Rhymey then, with fast speed, shot straight at the monster and began to slash, slice, and thrash at the monster, damaging him further!

Lightning and Krysta leapt in and managed punch and kick the living daylights out of the beast and in one double-team punch sent it soaring thirty feet up in the air. “Wow! I didn’t even feel a thing from recoil!” cried Krysta.

Suddenly, the Rainbow Rod appeared before Lightning and was glowing brightly along with Starla’s bow and Rhymey’s sword. “What’s happening now?” asked Starla. Then suddenly, they could all hear the voice of the Grand Ruler giving them all a telepathic message.

“Ponies, just as the power of the star stone combined with your training not only increase your power, but the power of your weapons as well. Starla, Rhymey, you have now unlocked the ability to finishing-moves. Use them wisely.”

Sure enough, Starla and Rhymey’s weapons now came with “Capture” and “Destroy” functions. They set the weapons on “Destroy”

“Let’s see what these can do.” said Starla.

“I’m with you.” rhymed Rhymey.

Lightning stood in between them all. “Let’s do this!”

The monster charged forth, but Rhymey gripped his sword tight, and the blade began to glow and flare with power as he waved it softly. “THRASH SLASH” he shouted and slashed right at the beast.

“My turn!” snapped Starla, and she magically conjured a super powerful arrow-- much stronger than normal-- and set in the bow. “GALACTIC PROJECTILE” and fired the arrow-- watching it turn into a small burning comet-like projectile, and going skewering right through the monster.

“SPECTRUM STREAM”

Lightning added the last bit of power and fired at Fusor, finally defeating it and making it explode. The friends all cheered for joy over their victory, and Lightning looked up at the sky knowing Titan’s minions were watching. “You lose again!”

The minions were outraged and shocked. “No! It’s impossible!” snarled Dementia. “They beat us again, and that was the best monster we ever made!” growled Rep-Stallion. Mysterious clenched his fists furiously “Somehow those pests are become stronger as we are. We must continue our training, and learn the secret of their new abilities as well. When the time comes, we attack!”

He cast another look at Lightning’s smug face, and then angrily blasted the viewing image to pieces.

Without much damage done to the fields, and the park now safe, the gang all decided to head home Lightning offered to walk Starla back, and she accepted. Rhymey and Krysta followed because they had to head in the same direction.

As for the date, with the exception of the battle, Starla had a great time, and so did Lightning.

“Starla?”

“Hmm?”

Lightning stuttered and stammered a bit again, but he managed to ask “Do you think you might want to… you know… go out again sometime?”

Starla smiled at him and answered “Sure, I’d love to. As long as we don’t have to fight another monster.” and she pecked him on the cheek before heading inside up to her apartment. Lightning just stood there with his cheeks all red. Krysta and Rhymey giggled, and Rhymey teased him again with that same line.

“Lightning and Starla sitting in a tree,
…K-I-S-S-I-N-G!”

Krysta even joined in the teasing. “Lightning’s got a mare-friend. Lightning’s got a mare-friend.”

Lightning just ignored them. So much had happened that day. He had good workout, went on a date with Starla, but most importantly, the star stone was starting to work its magic, and saved them all. He only hoped they would be able to find the other three stones and soon.

That night, before going to bed, Lightning wrote his report…

“Our new strengths given to us by the star stones have helped us extremely, but the bad news is that Titan’s minions will no doubt attempt to get stronger. It only makes it all the more important we keep to our training and be on guard.

Apart from this, my day with Starla was rather peaceful, despite the incident, and that friends can always help one another, even if at times it looks as if they shouldn’t. I feel grateful to have such wonderful friends and knowing that I can always count on them to help me when I need it, just as they can always count on me. It fills me with a joy and feelings that magic cannot bring you.”

He signed his name, and then sent the report through the magic mailbox slot.

After that, he hopped into bed, and turned out the lights and dreamt of all the adventures he would have another day.

(Promo)

In our next episode, Professor Brain is at it again and has invented a new invisibility formula, but Dementia has rather an exact plot as well to lure the ponies into a difficult battle. For how can you fight a monster you can’t even see?

How will the Professor’s new formula turn out, and is there a way to defeat what you can’t see?

Don’t miss the next exicint episode of “Starfleet Magic”

(Next Episode: “To See or Not to See”)

Episode 14: To See or Not to See

EPISODE FOURTEEN

Lightning spread word to all his friends about the star stone and how it really did work! The others almost couldn’t wait to try it out for themselves, and spent a lot of their free time training and trying to perfect any new moves they had been working on, and sure enough, they got a little stronger and faster, but it still took them time to master their new finishing-moves.

In the meantime, society and business just carried on, and once again, Lightning and Krysta were asked by Cookie Dough to deliver an ordered lunch to Professor Brain, for he was busy working on a new project, and as everyone knew he wouldn’t stop for much, but it wouldn’t be impolite to bring him the food he ordered.

As Lightning and Krysta headed for Greenland Lightning asked “What do you think he’s making this time, Krysta-- A rocket-ship to take us all to the moon?”

“I don’t really think so, Lightning. We don’t need a rocket to travel to the moon when we use dimensional pathways.”

As they landed near the Professor’s house and laboratory, they could see Dyno and Myte standing outside.

“Hola amigos.” said Dyno when Lightning and Krysta landed.

“Hey, boys, why are you here?” asked Krysta.

The twins explained that Brain had asked them to come over to help test his new secret project. “But we’ve waiting out here a long time-- Nada.” said Myte.

Lightning knocked a few times, but as expected, Brain didn’t answer. “That’s Professor Brain for you. He gets so wrapped up in his work he can’t seem to hear anything else.” Luckily, a window was open a wee bit just enough for Krysta to slip through. “Be back in a flash.” She said as she hovered inside.

Professor Brain was busy spraying a small barrel on his workbench with a clear liquid. “There! My new formula is complete.” he said to himself “Oh, I just can’t wait to tell to the others.”

“Well that’s good to hear.” said a voice from behind, making Brain jump “Oh…Oh, my! Please, Krysta, I beg you… don’t do that again. I get so carried away at times, you know.”

“Well just carry yourself to the door and let the others in.” replied Krysta.

Brain’s eyes widened, “Oh dear! I completely forgot. I shall be back, don’t touch anything.”

As soon as he was gone, Krysta sat on the barrel that was on the bench and just relaxed there, unaware that the barrel was beginning to fade away into thin air!

Brain let the others in and apologized for keeping them waiting for so long. “So what’s the big project?” asked Lightning, and Brain explained that he had been working on a new spray-paint he hoped would help to strengthen Starfleet’s super armor, and the armor that civilians wore, which he hoped would help decrease the dangers involved during times of battle.

“I have just tried out the new formula on a barrel that is sitting on my bench. Do whatever you wish with it. Smash it, burn it, blast it; this formula should make it so you cannot damage it.”

“This I must see.” muttered Lightning.

“You will in fact. You will.” said Brain as he lead everyone into the workshop, but they couldn’t see a barrel anywhere; just Krysta relaxing comfortably in midair. “Krysta!” snapped Lightning, and she snapped out from relaxation to realize she was sitting on fresh air. “Hey! What happened to the barrel?” she asked in shock.

Brain was most confused, “I… I don’t understand it.”

No one could see the barrel, yet they could see Krysta just standing perfectly in midair without even fluttering her wings to keep afloat. “Are you sure there was a barrel here?” Lightning asked.

“I am quite positive.” replied Brain.

Krysta then jumped softly, and everyone heard a knocking sound when her feet stopped. “Wait a minute.” She said and she tapped her little foot again. Brain walked over and gently tapped near Krysta’s feet and he could actually feel the barrel there. “I wouldn’t have believed it possible!”

“It’s invisible!” cried Krysta.

“Galloping galaxies, Professor you’ve really hit on something.” said Lightning.

The twins were overjoyed.

“He’s a genius.”

“Si, a regular super brain…”

Brain felt very proud. This was indeed a most magnificent discovery, but everyone was so captivated by the invisible barrel, they didn’t see Rep-Stallion peeking through the windows. “Just wait until I tell the others.”

“A paint that makes things invisible? Now I’ve heard everything.” Dementia scoffed. “If you’d spent your time training and mastering your powers like us instead of gallivanting off, we’d be ready to finish the ponies off by now.”

Rep-Stallion looked furious “Like you’ve ever had any ideas when all you do is stare at yourself in the mirror all day.”

Mysterious hushed them both before they broke out into a fight, and agreed that Rep had indeed discovered something most useful, and they did also have enough powder left to make just one final monster.

“So why don’t we just get the formula, make a monster, and badda-bing-badda-boom, we’ll have those ponies crushed before you can say anything.” huffed Rep-Stallion.

“Uh-huh. Just one problem; it would never work!” Dementia pointed out that even if they could create an invisible monster, Starfleet’s special visors could detect indivisibility powers. They’d find the monster easily.

“D’oh! I totally forgot that!” grumbled Rep-Stallion.

“Just, leave it to me.” said Dementia “I think I may be able to put your idea to use after all.”

“Make it a good one, Dementia.” Mysterious warned her “Need I remind you again, that this will be the last monster we can ever create.”

Dementia nodded in acknowledgement.

The barrel was still invisible, but Professor Brain already actually managed to chip a little piece of it, meaning his formula didn’t make it stronger at all, so the test was off. Luckily, using ordinary water to wash the paint away, the barrel reappeared again. “Yes, satisfactory, most satisfactory. Now all that remains to figure how to apply this new discovery of mine.”

The others assured Brain not to worry about that. Like all his inventions, it was bound to be put to good use very soon. “Can we help in any way?” asked Lightning.

“Oh, no, that shouldn’t be necessary.” said Brain.

No sooner had the others all left through the front door did Dementia appear round the other side of the house. She snickered sinisterly as she watched the friends go out of sight and then made her move.

As Brain was tidying up around his workshop, and still wondering what to do about the invisible paint, and the door burst wide open in a loud bang. “Oh my goodness…!” Brain yelped “What is--” he turned round and trembled at what he saw. He quickly pressed a big red button on the wall which sounded the Starfleet alert. “You shouldn’t have done that.” hissed a familiar voice—Dementia.

“Whatever do you want here?” Brain asked nervously.

Dementia grinned wickedly and snickered.

Lightning and the others hadn’t gone too far away and began to dash back immediately as soon as the alarms sounded. “Trust there to be trouble exactly where we were before.” groaned Lightning.

Nevertheless, they all continued to dash, and transformed along the way, “STARFLEET MAGIC!!” They reached Brain’s house to see “Dementia!” standing there in her normal form. “So the cavalry is here.”

“What are you up to now, Dementia?” snapped Lightning.

Dementia sniggered “Oh, you’ll see, or maybe you won’t.” she whistled loudly and the gang could hear something stomping its way through the door of Brain’s house, but they could see nothing there.

“Qué?” remarked Dyno

“I don’t see anything.” added Myte.

They were suddenly able to fit it all together-- that Dementia had used Brain’s new formula on a monster to render it invisible. “No problem. Let’s scan for it.” Lightning said, but they suddenly found to their shock that they couldn’t find the monster anywhere; their visors couldn’t detect it at all; not by heat, sound, magic, or anything. Dementia just continued to grin. “What’s the matter? You can see my monster, can’t you, or maybe it’s because I’ve used more than one formula on it?”

That told the others a lot. Professor Brain had not only a new invisibility formula, but he had also been able to create those that would render things undetectable by scans; which he made in case other opposing forces used technological devices.

Suddenly, Lightning got hit hard and was sent skidding along the ground!

“Lightning!” cried Krysta

“Guys, look out!” cried Lightning, but then the twins got tripped up off their feet.

Krysta fluttered up higher before she got hit, only to get grabbed by Dementia. “Going somewhere?” she hissed, and before Krysta knew it, she was thrown in a small jar and shut in tight. She pounded angrily on the glass “Help! Let me out! Let me out!” As strong as she usually was, she couldn’t break the glass so easy from the inside, nor lift up the jar.

Dementia couldn’t help bust shake the jar vigorously and laugh at the poor little fairy being rocked about inside. Krysta never felt so dizzy in her life. Dementia simply placed her on the window sill of Brain’s house where wouldn’t cause any trouble, as long as she was in the jar. Poor Krysta could only watch helplessly as her friends continued to face the invisible beast.

However, Lightning and the twins began to fight back, and managed to punch, kick, and bash the creature hard, much to Dementia’s horror. “You forget, Dementia, Starfleet is trained well.” Lightning yelled at her.

“Just because we can’t see the beast doesn’t mean we can’t find It.” said Dyno as he and the others carefully gazed around in stealth. Suddenly, Myte could hear the sound of the monster’s footsteps coming at them and marks made in the grass. “Aha!” he shouted as he leapt up high and kicked the monster hard in either its face or stomach. Either way, their strategy was working.

Dementia was furious, but not licked yet. “You’re sneaky, boys, but I’m sneakier.” And she shouted for her monster to do its thing, and suddenly the boys couldn’t hear anymore footsteps. “What’s happening?” asked Dyno, and before anyone could answer, all three of them got bashed and pounded really hard.

“It must be able to fly!” cried Lightning, and he got hit again. Now the monster could move more swiftly and much harder to spot. The ponies could barely get a chance to use their stealth-training to hone in on a spot before getting hit. Even after they managed to spot the monster’s location, it sped away before they had chance to attack.

“We’ve got to keep trying!” cried Lightning, but he got bashed again, as did the twins. The twins thought maybe of using their new finisher move, which would help find the monster, but they decided against it as it would run the risk of burning up the entire yard if they weren’t careful.

“Wait! I have an idea.” Lightning snapped “Maybe we can dump something on the monster to make it visible. Then we’d have an edge.” The twins agreed, but unfortunately there was nothing outside that they could use that was good enough. Grass and leaves didn’t work well at all, and blowing dust on the monster didn’t help, the creature just fanned itself clean with its wings. “Ay’! This isn’t working. We need something else!” snarled Dyno.

“But what?” asked Myte, and before they knew it, the monster had grabbed them both in its huge hands and slammed them both together hard multiple times. Lightning tried to save them, but kept getting kicked out of the way.

Dementia was laughing with glee. “This is almost too good to be true. I should’ve tried this long ago.”

Krysta could hardly stand to watch much more of this and began to rock the jar from inside, and she managed to knock it off the sill, through the open window and the jar shattered on the floor. Krysta gasped for a much needed breath of air after being cooped up in that jar for so long without air-holes.

That’s when she saw the professor all tied up and gagged on the floor. She wasted no time in freeing him. “Oh, thank you Krysta!” cried Brain. “I feel I may never be the same after this experience.”

“Never mind that-- The guys are in trouble. We need a plan.” Krysta said.

“I agree, and I have just the idea.” said Brain.

Outside, the boys had taken such beatings they didn’t know how much longer they could keep it up. “This is ridiculous!” growled Lightning as he got back up again. “We’ve beaten tougher monsters before. There’s got to be a way to beat this one.”

“There is…” Dementia hissed as she began to walk forward “You can finally admit defeat and surrender yourselves willingly.”

“Fat chance of that!” snapped Dyno. “Si, we will never give in to you!” added Myte

Dementia sighed “Fine then…” and she raised her hand and held three fighters in place with a warping barrier so they couldn’t run anywhere, and then ordered her monster “…Destroy them now!”

The boys couldn’t see the monster, but they knew it was rushing straight at them, and they couldn’t get out of the way with Dementia holding them down, as well as being beat up a lot. The monster was nearly at them, when suddenly Krysta zoomed out and swiftly kicked Dementia hard in the face, knocking her out of concentration, breaking her spell, and the boys dodged the monster just in time.

Dementia pulled her face out of the dirt, and was she ever furious! “You!” she thundered at Krysta “No one… does that… TO MY FACE!!” she fired a few blasts at Krysta, but she dodged each and every one. “Go, Krysta!” Lightning cheered

“VIVA!!” added the twins, but they had all forgotten about the monster and all got bashed again. The monster prepared to get at them again, but Professor Brain poked his head out the front door holding a small sphere, and though he couldn’t see the monster he could tell where it was by the motions of the gusts rustling the nearby trees. “Steady! Steady!” and he swiftly pitched the sphere-- a paint bomb-- which exploded on the monster and coated it in green paint, completely exposing it, revealing it to be a larger puppet version of Dementia.

The boys stood tall and cool. “There’s no more hide and seek now.” sneered Lightning. The twins agreed. Now that they could see the monster they could attack it perfectly. “Let’s do it!” said Dyno.

“Si, let’s.” added Myte. The brother held hands to increase their powers, and their bodies seemed to flare up in blazes-- their new finisher-move--“BOOM-BOOM FLARE!!” They unleashed a huge fiery blast right at the monster, engulfing it in the flames and frying it away to ashes followed by the traditional ending explosion.

Dementia couldn’t believe her eyes, but Krysta cheered for joy. “You did it, guys! You did it!” but Dementia suddenly grabbed her and squeezed her hard. “If I’m going to lose this fight, at least you’ll be destroyed.”

“KRYSTA!!” shouted Lightning as he leapt over and kicked Dementia hard and knocking her away, releasing Krysta.

Dementia got up again angrier than ever, but Lightning already saw his chance to blast her with the Rainbow Rod “SPECTRUM STREAM!!” and he hit her full force. Dementia screamed in fury and pain, but she managed to find enough strength to teleport to safety promising she’d get her revenge, and then she was gone.

Lightning growled in outrage.

“Let it go, Lightning. She’s gone.” Krysta said.

Lightning calmed down. “You’re right. The important thing is that we won again.”

The twins and Brain agreed, it wouldn’t be denied that Dementia and the others would be back now they couldn’t make any new monsters.

As for the invisible-paint, Professor Brain decided to put it in his massive storage safe along with dozens of other inventions on-hold, feeling the world was not quite ready for it until he worked out more of the bugs. “Well, I must say, this invention certainly gave us more than we bargained for.”

Dementia was really in a mess. Her nose was all red and swollen, and she had an ice-bag attached to her sore head. “Uhn, look at me. I’m hideous!” she groaned

“We heard you the first and thirty-first times!” snarled Rep-Stallion. “Still, you screwed up, just like I told you.” As the two of them quarreled Mysterious held his ears shut and did everything he could to silence the noise. “Some days it never pays to get out of bed.” He groaned.

That night before going to bed, Lightning wrote his report…

“Today’s battle has really opened all of our eyes. Everything has its fatal flaws including us. Regardless of how well we continue to train ourselves in every field, we cannot afford to get cocky and overconfident. Although it still cannot be ignored that in any battle, brains will always triumph over brawn alone, especially when the opposition doesn’t think of all possibilities on their side.

Titan’s minions no longer can create monsters, but it is quite feared and agreed that they will continue in their quest to eliminate us all. It is now up to us to ensure that the planet is safe from their sinister clutches… whatever they may turn out to be.”

He signed his name, and then sent the report through the magic mailbox slot. After that, he hopped into bed, and turned out the lights and dreamt of all the adventures he would have another day.

(Promo)

In our next episode, a star stone has been located on another planet, and Buddy Rose and Artie are sent to retrieve it, but what they find is a dismal planet in ruins, and a lost little alien girl. To make matters worse, a new powerful enemy, responsible for all the destruction, emerges and means to cause no end of trouble for the friends.

Will the boys secure the Star Stone? What will become the alien girl, and what of this new enemy?

Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic!”

(Next Episode: “The Fallen World of Elfaron”)

Episode 16: The Great Army Showdown: Part 1

EPISODE SIXTEEN

Several days had passed since the second star stone was obtained, and Lightning and his friends had already absorbed its power, making them stronger and swifter than ever, especially with all the extra training they had been doing for any upcoming battles or quests.

However, Lightning hadn’t been able to sleep very well, nor was he able to concentrate. Ever since he heard about Serpentari, he couldn’t get that demon out of his mind and all the destruction she had already caused in her search for the star stones, and above all… was she really the one who destroyed his home planet and killed his family? If she was, felt nothing would make him happier than to thrash, pound, and disintegrate that horrible beast and avenge his people. Lately he would have recurring nightmares and daydreams of that terrible day.

He could see it. He could feel it! The fires, the quakes, the explosions, the evil creature slaughtering all his fellow ponies from Harmonious, and how he, a mere colt of five was totally powerless to help them.

He would then wake up all sweaty, shaken, and finding it difficult to fall asleep again. He was starting to grow large bags under his eyes, and half the time found it hard to perform his duties, study his books, or train due to his lack of sleep and his traumatization holding him back.

Krysta was getting worried about Lightning that she made him an appointment with Dr. Penny for both a physical exam, and psychological therapy.

Penny had never seen anyone so agitated and insomniac, and though Penny was a civilian, she knew the Starfleet code said that officers had to be fit both physically and mentally. Lightning knew this as well, too well even, and feared he’d be useless in his current state. “Penny, what am I going to do?”

“Well, what you need to do is get some much needed rest.” Penny answered, and she prepared a shot. “I’m sorry Lightning, but I’m going to have to sedate you.”

Lightning stiffened “Sedate… Me?”

“It’s a special drug I mixed up myself. It’ll help you sleep better at night and it’ll calm you down a bit during the day. This is for your own good, Lightning.”

Lightning reluctantly agreed and took the shot. He didn’t feel any calmer or sleepy, as Penny told him it would take a while for the drug to kick it, “But it will work. Trust me; I know what it’s like to be stressed. That’s why I became a doctor in the first place.” and she began to tell her story.

When she was just a filly, she and her older sister loved to visit their grandmother in the country. They always such good times and their grandmother were so sweet and caring, but one day, their grandmother got really sick. The doctors found that she had come down with a fatal disease, and that it was too late for her to be treated. Her grandmother died, and Penny was broken-hearted, but she wasn’t the only one who felt like this. Some of her friends had other relatives or close friends that also got sick. Most of them made it through, but a few of them weren’t so lucky and passed away.

Penny’s sister decided to join Starfleet in a crusade to save lives, as a means of avenging her grandmother’s death, and young Penny began to dedicate her life to the study medicine. She spent all her free time studying, and she took first-aid courses. As she got older, she aced her medical studies with top marks all around and made her way to college, and medical school ahead of most students in her field. While even witnessing a real surgery being performed as part of her studies, she butted in verbally when the doctor was about to do something very wrong due to a miscalculation, and instructed the surgeons one what they were really supposed to do.

Finally after complete graduation and earning her licenses to practice and perform. Penny dedicated her life only to helping others as a doctor, vet, surgeon, psychologist-- she wished only promote and maintain good health and stability with all her patients in memory of her grandmother and all those that couldn’t be saved.

Of course, there were those tragic times in which others counted on her, and no matter how hard she tried she couldn’t save some patients and they ended up dying. Of course it really wasn’t her fault, but deep down it felt like it.

Penny sighed softly “I’ve never forgotten a single patient whom I helped, or tried to help but failed, but I always remember that I did my best, and I feel proud that I can provide such help to those in need.”

Lightning and Krysta were amazed and impressed by Penny’s dedication. She had the heart of a real Starfleet fighter, even though she wasn’t on the force. “You’re a good pony Penny.” Krysta said.

“You really do understand.” added Lightning. Penny turned to face them and nodded. “And I do it because I care, just like I care about you two. Now, I mean it Lightning, you get some rest, and try not to let your past get to you, and even if you do end up avenging your folks, it won’t bring them back.”

Lightning nodded “I’ll try, but I’m not promising.”

Meanwhile, Titan’s minions had been training hard to master their knight powers for a long while, and they were getting stronger and better all the time, and finally they were starting to feel as though they had it done!

“Wow! I’ve never felt so strong since… well… ever.” chuckled Rep-Stallion as he smashed a solid rock to pieces with one swing of his double-bladed scythe.

They had also learned new projectile attacks, and Dementia was having a fun with those. “Mirror, Mirror on the wall, who’s the prettiest and strongest of all?” she kept on saying to her reflection whenever she saw it.

“We are ready. The time has come.” hissed Mysterious. “The others nodded in agreement. “Starfleet has made fools of us one too many times.” growled Dementia. Rep-Stallion ran his fingers across his scythe blades, “But what goes around… is about to about to come around.”

All three of them laughed manically.

Lightning spent the day at home relaxing, reading, or catching up on his studies. “Feel any better yet?” Krysta asked. “Well I do feel less agitated.” Lightning answered “But I still don’t feel tired. If anything, I’m bored.” Krysta rolled her eyes.

Just then, there was a knock at the door. It was Starla. “Hi, Lightning.” she said. “Starla…” Lightning said shyly. “Um…hey… what brings you here?”

“I heard you weren’t feeling to great today, and thought I’d check up on you.” Starla said “I mean… I’m sorry if I disturbed you but.”

“No, no, you didn’t.” Lightning quickly said.

They were suddenly gazing into each other’s eyes, and both turned away giggling and blushing softly. Krysta resisted the urge to laugh at how typical they were acting. “Why don’t they just go for it already?” she said, but she said it to herself.

After Starla left and promised to check up on Lightning after work. Krysta couldn’t help but say “Lightning, don’t you think you and Starla should stop kidding yourselves?”

Lightning was confused. “What do you mean?”

Krysta gawked at him awkwardly “Come on, you two are crazy for each other. I know it, you both know it and everyone knows it. So what are you waiting for?”

Lightning’s face turned red and he almost felt stressed out but Penny’s medicine helped him not panic. However, he decided not to deny it. He had been thinking about it for a while, but kept on deciding against it. Not just because he was nervous and things like that, but also because of the dangers! Life in Starfleet was always pretty rough for the both of them. Always having to fend off against evil forces and risking their lives in so many ways, and many Starfleet members had lost friends or family were part of the force, which was part of the reason why some of them wanted to join. “I just don’t know.” Lightning said “Starla’s a great fighter, and so am I, but all I’m saying is what if something happens to one of us. We both lost our loved ones, and I know I couldn’t stand it if I lost anyone else dear to me. Imagine how Starla would feel.”

Krysta felt touched by how much Lightning showed his concern, but she implied that he was overreacting. “I’m sure Starla understands that. She’s already pretty concerned about you when she just checked up on you.”

Lightning realized maybe that was true, but he was still feeling rather shy. “I just don’t think I’m ready to ask her yet.” Krysta understood and promised she wouldn’t try to force him this time. Lightning smiled at her. “Thanks, Krysta.”

Suddenly, the sounds of wicked evil laugher echoed from above as the skies went dark. “What now?” grumbled Lightning as he and Krysta looked way up. There, in the skies above the kingdom, were images of Titan’s minions, all in their evil knight forms.

“Attention Lightning Dawn!” Mysterious hissed “We know that you can hear us. So listen carefully.” The minions had challenged Lightning and his unit to a duel. “Meet us by the shrine at the top of Blacktop Mountain after sundown tonight!” said Rep-Stallion. “We’ve prepared an extra special battlefield just for this occasion.” Dementia stepped forward “…And believe us when we say that refusal to accept our challenge is highly unacceptable.” She waved her hand and the images faded into images of the whole kingdom in grave peril. Fires, storms, eruptions, and other sorts of hazards!

Lightning and Krysta couldn’t blink. What a horrible sight it was! Soon, the images soon faded and the minions promised that if Lightning and friends didn’t show up they would do just as they had seen to the kingdom. This time, for real! “Sundown, Starfleet!” snapped Mysterious “Think it over, but not too long.” The images faded, and the skies were clear. So many ponies had already fallen into panic and were preparing for an obvious lockdown at sunset.

Lightning gazed at Krysta. “Let’s go round up the guys.

“Right.”

The minions snickered wickedly, and had a feeling that Lightning and friends would accept the challenge. “Once everything falls into place, we can unleash the next part of our master plan.” hissed Mysterious.

“Yeah, they won’t even know what hit ‘em.” added Rep-Stallion

Behind them all, hiding in the shadows, were hundreds of red glowing eyes followed by hissing and growling of an obvious army of creatures eager to fight. Dementia motioned to them all “Patience pets, patience. You’ll get your chance.”

Before long, Lightning and his entire unit met at his house. They all had seen and heard the threat from the minions, and were willing to accept the challenge.

“It’s a chance that we must not miss,
They’ll destroy our planet as per their promise.” said Rhymey.

Still, many of the others tried to persuade Lightning to sit this one out as they were well-aware of his recent restlessness. Lightning was growing quite annoyed “I appreciate everyone’s concern but we’ve got a greater threat on our hands here!” he barked. He apologized quickly for snapping and pointed out that minions wanted them all to come. “I’m going with you all and as team commander, that’s an order.”

The others were forced to obey and agree. “I wonder though…” said Dyno “How do we know this isn’t another trick?” asked Dyno, and Myte agreed “What if they just turned around and blow up the planet anyway?” added Myte.

“I’ve already thought of that.” said Lightning “I wrote to the Grand Ruler almost immediately before our meeting and I got an immediate response from him.” He showed them all and read the letter from his mentor…

Lightning…

No doubt in my mind you and your friends are eager to accept the minions’ challenge, however, you mustn’t fear for the safety of the kingdom. If the minions dare to try anything, I shall be ready for them along with my vast legion of well-trained guards. I have also sent messages to other Starfleet forces out in space to standby in case of calling for reinforcements.

My only regret is that I will not be able to assist you in your part of the battle, but know that I have faith in you and your friends. I always have, and always will. Just remember what you are fighting for, and keep your wits about you.

We are all counting on you, my faithful student. You and your friends will make us proud, I know it, and feel it.

Good luck to you all!

Your caring mentor: The Grand Ruler.

So that was it then! At least a part of their worries were eased, but some of them were very concerned about the battle. After all, it seemed obvious that the minions had mastered their new powers and it wasn’t known just how much stronger they had become. “Our visors weren’t able to read their powers, and we barely stood a chance against them before” Buddy Rose pointed out “Who knows what new tricks they’ve got now.”

“Yeah, but we’ve all gotten stronger too.” said Starla. “We’ve trained a lot. We have the power of two star stones, and we’ve mastered new moves.”

“She’s got a point.” said Artie “Besides, we don’t have any other choice at this time, and even without the other two star stones we can’t risk the planet’s safety.”

“That’s it then.” Lightning said. “We go.” he put his hand in center of the table, and everyone else put their hand on top of one another’s, and Krysta stood on the very top.

By sunset that evening, many of the ponies across the planet were ordered back into their homes and remain there; ready for the second the Grand Ruler would raise the barriers. All other Starfleet ponies were on standby, and most the royal guard army had left the floating palace to take their positions below. While Lightning and his friends all donned their battle suits, and were now flying for Blacktop Mountain. Along the way, Starla looked pretty nervous about something other than the upcoming battle, or rather someone-- Lightning. “Starla, are you okay?” asked Lightning. Starla seemed really nervous something. “Lightning… I…” she choked on her words and then decided “Never mind.” and she sped a little on ahead almost as if she were trying not to give something away to him, but Lightning actually felt that he knew what she was trying to say, if only he were sure.

Krysta couldn’t help but sigh in dismay for them both.

It was getting dark out as the sun continued to sink below the horizon by the power of Grand Ruler’s magic. Titan’s minions, in the regular forms, were already at the peak of Blacktop Mountain and patiently awaiting the arrival of their enemies. “It won’t be much longer now.” hissed Mysterious. “Well I wish they’d hurry.” groaned Rep-Stallion “I want to have at these little pests and teach them a lesson they won’t soon forget.”

“And don’t forget the other part of our plan.” said Dementia “As soon as we have them all in our sights, we’ll unleash the--”

“Yes, yes, we know.” Mysterious interrupted. Dementia hated it when others interrupted her, but then she noticed “Look, here they come.”

The team were already soaring over Violet Swamp and could see the black mountain region up ahead. One by one they landed near the shrine on Blacktop Peak.

The gang all looked around. “Where are they?” asked Dyno. “They better not have set us up.” snapped Myte. That’s when the sound of the minions’ laughter was heard. “Well, well-- right on time.” hissed Mysterious. Then, the area began to warp around everyone. “Hey! What’s going on?” called Buddy-Rose.

“This is like some scary book!
I don’t think that I can look!” cried Rhymey.

In a quick flash, they all had vanished from sight and suddenly found themselves soaring across space on a pathway, and suddenly landed with a thud in a dark and eerie place. Dark grounds, dark skies. It was all dark! Bits and pieces and mounts of rubble, and corpses and skeletons. Small fog layers, eerie winds, a large castle! Lightning and thunder shaking the skies!

“What is this place?” cried Starla.

Lightning gazed all around. “You don’t think this could be--”

The minions’ were heard laughing again! The gang turned round and there they were standing on a tall pile of rocks. “You have entered a world where our master, Titan spent centuries in prison, a world of surrounding chaotic darkness. This is that world. This is the Dark Planet.” hissed Mysterious.

The fighters exchanged looks of shock and took another look around the desolated planet. They had heard of it, and studied, but to actually be standing on it now up-close, there was no matching it as the single-most frightening place they had ever seen, and that Titan was sealed in this place for a millennium.

“Feel free to have a look around.” sniggered Dementia “This will be the last place you’ll ever see… alive!”

The team huddled close together and stood ready. “We don’t care what tricks you’re up to!” snapped Lightning “We’ll take you down and then find our way back home.”

The minions exchanged looks at each other and then laughed hysterically. “What are they laughing about now?” Buddy Rose wanted to know.

“Nothing, really…” said Rep-Stallion “It’s just that even if you survive-- which you won’t-- you won’t really have a home to go back to.”

The fighters gasped in confusion. “What are you talking about?” sneered Starla.

The minions explained that they had discovered Lord Titan’s secret of conjuring puppet clones, and had combined that with their newly mastered knight powers to conjure hundreds, thousands even of clones of themselves. Impossible to believe, they created a vast army of clones, almost over ten-thousand, and even as they spoke, those clones were blasting the planet to bits.

Just as promised, the vast armada of puppet clones had already began to materialize in the kingdom and made their way towards the major villages and towns. The alarms were sounded, the force fields were raised around the shelters, and Grand Ruler sent his guards and fighters into action. He himself decided to attend the battle this time in the absence of Lightning’s team.

“…CHARGE!!” Grand Ruler shouted. Captain Shaina dashed forth leading her army of guards behind her “On to battle!” and the swarms of fighters dashed for the battle-grounds. Until not a corner in the areas around them could be seen without there being fights and brawls.

They all did their best, but for each puppet they managed to destroy, two more appeared, but the brave ponies wouldn’t give in.

Mysterious snickered and informed the fighters “Try all they like, your friends won’t be able to hold our army back forever. As long as we are standing, our forces will never cease.”

“Face it, punks, your good luck has just clean run out.” said Rep-Stallion.

“There’s no running away this time.” said Dementia “This is a fight to the end. Only one side will be left standing, and it’s going to be us.”

Lightning clenched his fists tighter than ever. “Enough of this!” he growled “…Let’s brawl!”

The others and the minions all stood fiercely at opposite ends of the field, and suddenly Lightning’s team dashed ahead, straight for the minions. The minions stood where they were, not even moving and the gang seemingly jumped on them and began to attack full force, but when the dust had settled. “Huh?” all they had done was hacked away at the pile of rocks, and the minions were nowhere to be seen.

“Where’d they go?” asked Starla.

“I don’t know.” rhymed Rhymey.

Mysterious waited while hiding in the shadows, thanks to mastering his powers, he could blend in with the darkness around him and hide easier, and then, with almost no warning, he leapt forth just in time for everyone to see him emerge and…

“SMOKE OF PAIN”

…He fired powerful blasts of smoky dark magic straight at them creating small yet strong explosions knocking everyone down.

Lightning groaned softly as he got back up. “As Professor Brain would say, “Well; now who’s a fool?”

The other two minions appeared suddenly near Lightning snickering. “Did you miss us?” Dementia mocked. The gang went at them again only to miss and be shot by Rep-Stallion’s new attack, “BOLT OF THUNDER!” an attack that let him fire electrified-pulses from his scythe. Everyone jumped out of the way just in time.

So far, the fighters were getting nowhere. Every time they tried to even find the minions to even try and attack them the same thing happened. “I say we split up.” suggested Lightning.

Some of the other didn’t like that idea. “Split up, are you mad?” asked Dyno. “We have to stick together, and form a plan.” added Myte. Krysta hovered right up to the twins and snarled, “Oh, sure, this is a great plan-- staying in one place to make an easier target for them!” So the team scattered around a bit.

Lightning felt a little tired and yawned softly. “Are you okay?” asked Krysta.

“I’m fine.”

“They’ve split up.” hissed Mysterious.

“Just like we hoped.” chuckled Rep.

“And now the real fun begins.” Dementia said. Then all three of them slit up. Dementia went after Starla and the twins, and Rep went after Rhymey, Buddy, and Artie, leaving Mysterious to handle Lightning and Krysta. “This might be over sooner than we thought.” hissed Mysterious.

“Not as soon as you think!” snapped Krysta “Ready, Lightning?” Lightning yawned again, but answered “You bet!” and he dashed forth, only to have Mysterious kick him hard in his armor and sent him skidding along the ground, colliding into a rotted tree.

“Lightning!” shrieked Krysta. Mysterious laughed wicked as he approached the seemingly unconscious Lightning. “You once were strong, and now I am stronger.” He prepared to deliver a fatal attack to Lightning and finish him off, but at the last second Lightning bolted upright and punched Mysterious hard sending him back hard. “I know you’re stronger. That’s why we got stronger too.” Then he dashed forward faster than ever. Mysterious thrust his fist forward to intercept, but Lightning zipped out of the way so suddenly and Krysta kicked Mysterious hard from behind.

Lightning smiled, but he yawned yet again and was feeling more tired already.

“Very impressive.” hissed Mysterious “Perhaps I underestimated you… AND I WILL NOT MAKE THAT MISTAKE AGAIN!!”

Meanwhile, Rep-Stallion was showing off his new and improved swiftness by parrying his scythe against Rhymey’s sword and Artie’s staff. Two against one and he made the odds look equal. Even when a struggle was engaged, and Rep managed kick the both of them aside.

“Hey! “No one does that to my friends!” snarled Buddy Rose, and using his whip, he yanked the scythe out of Rep-Stallion’s hands and grabbed it himself. “Ha-Ha! Looks the tables have turned! I got your weapon now.” but Rep-Stallion didn’t seem the least bit concerned. “Who has what?” he growled as he stuck out his arms and his hands glowed bright. The scythe began sparking and shocking Buddy hard that he was forced to let go, and the weapon returned to Rep. “It looks like the tables have turned again, and my weapon is back with me. I’d never let it fall into the hands of anyone else, especially to the likes of you!”

Buddy got back up after his shocking, and Rhymey and Artie came to his side. “That was a dirty trick!” growled Artie.

“Well, we, too, can be slick!” rhymed Rhymey. Rep growled like bull.

Meanwhile, Starla and the twins weren’t having much luck either. So many times they had launched their attacks, but Dementia’s swiftness and defences proved to be a bit much. Most of the attacks just missed her and those that hit her only made her angrier. “Do you know how long I spent shinning my armor?!” she scolded, and she fired her newest projectiles in outrage, “COLDNESS OF DESTRUCTION!” a swarm of ice shards which she launched the straight at the fighters. “Jump!” cried Starla as she and the twins leapt out of the way as the ice flew past them and completely froze a pile of fallen trees and rubble. “Ay’! Ay’! Ay’! Hace Frio!” cried Dyno.

Starla quickly armed her bow and fired her “STARLIGHT ARROW!” but Dementia just zipped, out of the way, and appeared right before Starla, punching her hard across the face and knocking her down!

Lightning saw it all. “Starla!” he shouted! Then he got hit from behind by Mysterious’ blasts. He fell to the ground but hardly struggled to get back up. “Lightning! What’s wrong?” cried Krysta. “I… I don’t know!” Lightning said through a yawn “I feel so… dopey-- drow….sy!” Then he drifted off into a deep, deep sleep “Lightning! Lightning!” cried Krysta.

Everyone else could see him. Lightning was just lying flat on the ground, hardly moving at all!

While back on Unicornicopia, the clones were appearing faster and in larger numbers than the guards could take them out, but just as the minions had promised, the clones never seemed to stay down. Grand Ruler had just sent word for the standby Starfleet forces to come and help, but it would take a while for them to all get there, and the clones were getting rougher than ever, and worse, the shields around the buildings were starting to weaker.

Captain Shaina and her guards saw this and dashed over to battle a swarm of clones trying to get into several, now, unprotected buildings with frightened civilians inside. More clones began to march toward them in great numbers.

“SIRE…!” Shaina hollered. Grand Ruler gazed down from way up high and saw all the commotion and heard the guards crying out for help.

“The shields are coming down!”

“We can’t hold them back!”

“HELP US!!”

Grand Ruler leapt down form up high and hollered for more guards and fighters nearby. “Seal off the perimeter! A-Team, assist B-Team! Get those clones away from the buildings!” he and the guards reached Shaina’s team and fought to ward off the clones. Grand Ruler helped Shaina back onto her feet “Don’t give up, Captain. We’ll get it together somehow. We’ve got to hang on.”

“Your highness! The shields!” shouted one of the other fighters. “All right, stand back!” Grand Ruler hollered and struggled hard to conjure more magic from his golden horns. The shields were reenergized, but Grand Ruler was beginning to feel tired. “Sire, are you hurt?!” asked Shaina.

“I… can’t keep this up… much longer.” cried Grand Ruler. “My power will run low. If those reinforcements don’t get here soon, we may have had it!”

To Be Continued…

(Promo)

In our next episode, with Lightning temporarily out of action, the friends seek refuge inside Titan’s castle and begin to have their suspicions about the minions’ source of powers. Meanwhile, the Grand Ruler and his forces are becoming vastly overpowered by the onslaught of clones, and the minions seem to be in the verge of total victory.

Will the clones destroy Unicornicopia? Will Lightning and friends succeed in outwitting the minions?

Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic!”

(Next Episode: “The Great Army Showdown: Part 2”)

Episode 17: The Great Army Showdown: Part 2

“Previously on Starfleet Magic”

After dealing with Lightning’s stress issues, he and his entire unit were challenged to a showdown against Titan’s minions, whom had mastered their super powers. Unable to refuse, Lightning and his team accepted the challenge, and soon found themselves on the Dark Planet, face-to-face with the super minions, while at the same time Unicornicopia had been invaded by a vast army of clones.

As resistance continued, the forces on Unicornicopia were beginning to weaken severely, and to make matters worse, Lightning had completely passed out from some strange drowsing.

EPISODE SEVENTEEN

The gang huddled together, and the minions stood side-by-side. Lightning was still sleeping deeply, much to the gang’s upset, but to the minions’ delight. “Poor thing.” hissed Mysterious “Guess he’s reached the end of his rope.” added Rep-Stallion.

The others tried to wake Lightning up, but he was really passed out. Krysta then realized that Lightning had collapsed under the effects of Dr. Penny’s drug she had given him that day. “She sedated him, now of all times?!” snarled Arite.

“Lightning, please, wake up!” cried Starla. “Come on, amigo!” added Dyno, but Lightning still didn’t awaken. His battle suit even powered down. The gang also realized that they had all huddled into one group again, which made them an easy target for their enemies. “Who should we take out first?” Dementia teased. “All of them!” snarled Rep-Stallion.

The gang were in trouble now, but they couldn’t just run off while Lightning was down. They needed to bide time, and suddenly, Buddy Rose could see something far off in the darkness. “I have an idea.” He whispered to the others “Get ready to move.”

“And now, the time has come!” growled Mysterious “Say goodbye, Starfleet!” Then he and his comrades charged up their most powerful attacks for a humongous shot.

“DANCE OF ICE!”

“THE BITE OF LIGHTNING!”

“THE HAMMER OF EVIL!”

Right as they fired their attacks, Buddy Rose quickly leapt up, “LEAF SWARM!” he launched the biggest swarm he had ever unleashed, until he had created an entire wall of razor-leaves around the team making it hard to see them, but the minions didn’t care and just launched their attacks all at once. The forces struck the wall of leaves so hard, making a powerful explosion.

It really looked as if it was all over, the minions gazed up ahead hoping that when the smoke had cleared they would see nothing but the remains of their dead enemies, but to their shock and outrage, they were gone! “Where did they go?” cried Dementia.

Rep-Stallion angrily slammed his scythe hard. “I don’t believe it! They outwitted us again!”

Mysterious was annoyed too. “They must be around here somewhere.” he said “Remember, they can’t leave here. We’ll find them, even if we have to tear this derelict-dimension-dump apart piece by piece!”

They spread out and began blowing up and attacking anyplace that could remotely serve as a general hiding spot, but the team had retreated to the one place they hoped and felt the minions wouldn’t dare to attack-- Titan’s old castle! There they hoped to bide their time and maybe help Lightning wake up, but they all couldn’t help but worry about Unicornicopia and how things were going there.

The reinforcements still had not yet arrived, leaving Grand Ruler and his forces of guards and fighters to fend off the endless swarms of minion clones for much longer than expected, but the forces were growing exhausted while the clones remained as strong as ever, but still the fighters knew they couldn’t give up.

The shields around the buildings began to weaken again, forcing Grand Ruler to use more of his powers to recharge them to keep the civilians inside safe from the dangers, but using up all that power as well as assisting in battle was making him weaker. He fell to his knees panting heavily.

“Sire, are you alright?” asked a guard. “Yes!” groaned Grand Ruler “But I’m running out of power.”

The guards and the fighters felt very concerned, but he reassured them he still had strength to keep going. “I just hope the reinforcements get here soon.” He gazed up at the starry skies, out into space, knowing fully well that Lightning and his team were on the Dark Planet. “I especially pray they are alright!”

Lightning was still sleeping deeply under the effects of Penny’s medicine, but for now he and the others were safe, but the others felt it wouldn’t be long until the minions figured out where they were.

“Just look at them out there.” said Artie. Everyone gazed outside watching the minions blast more chunks and piles of dead trees and rocks away. Their powers seemed just as strong as ever, even after all that had happened outside during the battle. “Come on out!” roared Rep-Stallion “We’ll find you!” He sliced the remains of trees down, and blew up more rocks.

“It seems that their powers just grow and grow.
But how did they get it? That’s what I’d like to know.” said Rhymey.

The others all felt the same ever since the day the minions first changed into their knight forms, but their visors still couldn’t tell them a thing of their power source; there was no available data.

Suddenly, Lightning began to awaken and opened his eyes. “Guys?” he groaned softly “What’s going on? I feel so… heavy. So… so beat!”

“You’re just sleepy from Penny’s medicine.” said Krysta “Take it slow and try to wake up.”

Lightning struggled to stand, but he felt as if he had a huge boulder rest on his back and slumped back down. “Shh! Quiet!” snapped Starla “They’ll hear us out there.”

The minions heard nothing and continued to search the grounds outside. “You’re beginning to make us angry!” snarled Rep-Stallion as he fired more blasts, and in his blind rage he fired a blast near Titan’s castle. “No!” Mysterious thundered as he intercepted her blast with his own power. Both he and Dementia were furious. “You idiot!” growled Dementia “That castle is the only keepsake we have left of Titan, and you almost blasted it!”

“Sorry.” Rep simply said.

“And need I remind you of what else lies in that palace?!” growled Mysterious.

“Yeah, yeah, I remember the source of our power is in there.” Rep sneered, and then Dementia smacked him across the face “Shut up! What if the ponies heard you?”

They heard, and they were delighted to have. “So, their power source is somewhere in this castle.” Krysta said. The others all happened on the same idea at once-- to find the source and hopefully disable it. “Um… just one thing,” Artie said “Where do we even start looking?”

Just the foyer of the castle seemed large enough to hide so many things in so many places. Lightning, still woozy, managed to stand up. “Maybe… we should go in deeper?” he suggested, and seeing no other option and it would do well for Lightning to move around and shake his drowsiness away, they ventured forth into Titan’s castle.

Outside, the others were beginning to wonder if maybe the ponies really had gone into the castle. They had already searched far enough in the grounds. “It’s possible they could be in there.” hissed Mysterious, and Dementia cast a nasty look at Rep, “And guess whose fault it is for opening his big mouth…”

“Hey, I said I was sorry.” snapped Rep “At least we know where they are.”

Mysterious hated to agree but Rep was right, and he and the others knew Titan’s castle well and how it was filled with traps and dangers to those who dared to enter. “I think we’ll play a waiting game.” he hissed and then snickered.

The ponies, except Lightning, made their horns glow to give them light to see well in the dark as they continued to trek through the castle. Cobwebs and piles of dust and mold everywhere they looked. Water drops dripping down from above. Rats roaming around every here and there, and bits of dead bones along the floor. Starla stepped on a few crunching them under her boot. “Ugh, Yuck!” she murmured.

Every once in a while one of the others would ask if Lightning was okay “I’m fine!” he would say annoyingly. Then he let out a yawn, “At least I think I will be once this drug wears off.”

That was the least of their problems. They now were facing an area with many doors and pathways. “Which way should we go now?” asked Buddy Rose. The best they could all do was split up. Starla and Krysta would remain with Lightning to help him out.

Artie then reached down to the floor and picked up sharp pointed stones from the ground and handed them to the others. “Use these. We’ll draw marks on the walls so we don’t get lost.” Everyone agreed, and then each picked a door and headed through. Some ways lead upwards, others went deeper down, and some just kept going straight ahead.

Poor Rhymey felt his hind legs quivering, but he kept on repeating a small verse whenever he felt scared to help himself feel better.

“Be brave and bold,
That’s what you were told.

Be brave and bold,
That’s what you were told.”

Dyno and Myte were used to dark dank places, being miners, but this wasn’t anything like being in a mine-- so unfamiliar, so creepy. Suddenly, they felt as if they were walking on wood instead of cold stone, and it began to creak loudly as they stood where they were. “Uh, Dyno…” Myte whimpered. His brother gazed down at the wooden plank “Uh, oh!” and suddenly, the twins fell through, shrieking. Their shrieks echoed throughout the castle, alarming the others.

Rhymey quivered in fear.

“Mercy me…!
I BELIEIVE I SHOULD FLEE…!” and he ran as fast as he could down the tunnel, stepping on stones that activated traps that shot small flame-geysers in the walls and ceilings which he barely was able to avoid without a few scorches.

“What’s that?” asked Buddy Rose, but suddenly a wall of spikes slammed down near at the end of the corridor and began to zoom right for him, forcing him to run faster than he had ever run and just barely reaching the end of the corridor but ended up falling down a long drop.

Artie heard all the screaming and was already running down his corridors, and suddenly the floor felt slippery and he skidded about all over the place. “Whoa… hey… No!” as he slid he could see a series of swinging axes up ahead, and barely managed to duck, evade, and leap over them all, but he was still sliding and speeding up as he went downhill.

Lightning heard all the frightful screams and echoes. “Okay, I think wide awake now.”

“Good!” cried Krysta “Because I think we should…”

“RUN!” cried Starla, and all of them began to dash ahead, and up ahead were three doorways, each of them dashed through one completely separating from one another.

Somehow, every one of the friends all wound up falling, sliding and running back to where they started and crashed into each other, then flat on their backs on the floor. “Now… I’m really awake.” groaned Lightning.

Everyone felt really silly, and now felt quite lost.

“We made such haste.
But it was all a big waste” Rhymey said.

“What do we do now?” asked Krysta “There’s no point in trying the paths again. We’ll just end up back here.”

The twins suddenly had an idea and began to feel along the walls. “What are you two doing?” asked Starla, the twins didn’t answer but just kept feeling along the walls, and tapping the stones. Suddenly, Myte reached up and grabbed hold of a torch holder, which moved like a lever. “Esso Es! I thought so” he chirped with glee as the wall near him began to slide open revealing a hidden way to a flight of stairs. “Way to go, boys!” said Lightning “Come on, let’s go.”

Everyone dashed up, up, up the long flight of curving stairs up into the castle keep. They felt a little tired after running all the way to the top. “Whew! Now I see why the minions always teleport.” groaned Artie.

Nevertheless, they had reached what appeared to be Titan’s old throne room, and the sight of Titan’s old massive throne was almost breathtaking. “Even the Grand Ruler’s throne isn’t this big.” remarked Lightning.

Krysta flew round, and around the throne as she flew to the top then back down again. She landed on the seat and walked around a bit, but something felt strange to her. “Krysta, what’s wrong?” asked Lightning.

“I feel something.” answered Krysta “Something below here is giving a vibration.”

The others all scanned the area with their visors, and they not only detected powerful vibration, but their magical scans were going crazy. “There’s something beneath the throne, in the floor.” said Buddy Rose.

“Stand back.” Starla said, and once everyone was clear “PULSAR LASER!” and in a swift blast, she blew up the throne, and when the dust cleared the floor began to quiver softly, and the stonework where the throne was began to rise up revealing a large glowing green sphere. Everyone gazed at it with awe, but there was no doubt in their mind that this was it—the power source the minions argued about.

“This is it. We found It.” cried Lightning, but at that moment, the sphere levitated up, and began to fly around in furious circles, and then it flew straight through an open window and headed outside. “Let’s go after it.” snapped Artie.

They all flew up and out the window, chasing the sphere, not realizing where they were going at first until they ran right into the minions. “Well, well…” hissed Mysterious as he held the sphere and tucked it away into his armor.

“Did you enjoy your tour of the master’s castle?” Dementia snickered, then she sneered furiously “I hope you’re willing to pay for blowing up his throne!

The others had almost forgotten why they had come in the first place. “No more games!” Lightning said “I think it’s time we finish what we started.” The others all nodded in agreement, and then, “Starfleet Magic!” Lightning transformed into his battle suit again and he and his team stood ready.

“So, you finally ready to lose yet?” snapped Rep-Stallion as he gripped his scythe. “We sure are…” Krysta said “We’d love to lose; lose you.”

Most of the ponies quickly got out their weapons…

“STAR BOW!”

“VINE WHIP!”

“SUPER STAFF!”

“WARD SWORD!”

“Go!” shouted Lightning. At his shout, the gang split up and attacked the minions just like before. The battle seemed more equal this time as attacks and blows were sent and given, but the minions were still proving to be far too swift and strong. Their powers just never seemed to get weak, no matter what they did, al because of that strange glowing orb. “We’ve got to try and get it away from them.” Lightning hollered to his teammates.

“That is not going to happen!” growled Mysterious. “Attack!” he and the other charged straight at the ponies, and the ponies realized that Mysterious was their obvious target as he had the orb, but Dementia and Rep-Stallion helped to keep a lot of them back. Rhymey and Artie’s weapons were starting to get scraped and scratched, while Rep-Stallion’s scythe had hardly a dent in it, and Dementia’s ice powers were making it hard for others.

Dyno and Myte tried to rush Dementia from different ends, but she flipped out of the way causing the twins to ram into each other. “Did we get her?” they both said feeling dizzy. Dementia burst out laughing, but Starla didn’t think it funny. “Oh yeah?!” she growled, and lunged at Dementia trying to land one good bash, but she dodged each and every one of them and kicked her hard sending her back and right into Lightning, knocking him down.

“Are you okay?” Lightning asked.

“Yeah… I’m alright.” She answered. They both held hands as they held each other up and almost fell into another shy spell.

“This is crazy! We’re not getting anywhere.” Krysta said. The others huddled together to regroup.

“We’ve fought the best we can,
But I say we need a new plan.” panted Rhymey

The minions laughed as the slowly crept forth “There’s nothing you can plan.” hissed Mysterious. “There’s nothing you can do.” he reached into his armor and held out the glowing orb. “We have the magic. We have all the power, and now we have you in our grasp, just as our army has your world at our mercy.”

The team suddenly remembered and shouted “...UNICORNICOPIA!!”

The clone army just wouldn’t stop coming, and the guards were all finally reaching their limits after battling for such a long time, and worse the barriers came down again, and Grand Ruler struggled his hardest to get them back up, only then to collapse onto the ground. “Sire!” cried Captain Shaina as she ran to his side. “That’s it!” Grand Ruler groaned “I’m… running too low on power. I won’t be able to charge the shields again.”

The angry clones began to huddle in large numbers, still hardly weakened at all from the fight. No matter how many times they were destroyed, they just kept on coming back, but suddenly portal began to open in the sky as the Starfleet reinforcements final arrived in vast numbers and jumped right into battle.

One of the commanders apologized for being late, but the clones were even fighting them on the dimensional pathways. Nevertheless, the fight was evened out again and it would give the Grand Ruler and the other fighters a chance to rest a short while and recharge their powers so they could rejoin the fight.

Lightning was very worried about the kingdom, and what he would give to topple the minions and race back. Suddenly, he remembered how during the fight everyone was bumping into one another. He was beginning to have an idea.

“Any last words?” asked Rep-Stallion as he held his scythe high. “Make it fast!” snapped Dementia.

“Yeah…” Lightning said “Everyone spread out!” the others felt confused at first, but did as they were told. The minions were losing their patience and spread out to continue the fight.

“Lightning, what are you doing?” asked Starla

“Just trust me!” Lightning said and then he ran back towards the minions. “What is he up to?” Krysta wondered aloud. Then they all noticed that Lightning was standing directly with minions all standing around him in a ring. “I give up!” he then said.

“WHAT?!” everyone shouted, event he minions were shocked to hear. “You’re right, we can’t beat you, but I don’t want any more trouble. Take me, but let my friends go.”

“Lightning, No!” shouted Krysta.

“What are you doing?” called Dyno.

Dementia felt she was going to faint. “Somebody, pinch Me.” she chuckled. “You’re offering yourself to us?” asked Rep-Stallion in disbelief. Lightning nodded. “I’ll do anything you want as long as you let them go.”

Mysterious thought it over for a moment, “Well, as tempting as that would sound, I’m afraid we must refuse.”

“That’s right!” growled Rep-Stallion “We swore we’d get rid of all of you, and that’s just what we’ll do.”

Dementia nodded, “You destroyed our master, Titan, and now we’ll return the favor, starting with you, Lightning Dawn!”

The minions charged up ready to fire, and Lightning had no place to run. “And now, goodbye!” roared Mysterious as he and the other minions fired, that’s when Lightning spread out his wings and flew straight up, casing the minions to miss them and strike each other instead!

“It worked!” and his friends caught on with his plan. “If we can’t beat them by ourselves,” said Buddy Rose. “Maybe… we can get them to beat each other!” said Artie.

The others agreed and the battle was on again.

Krysta fluttered round Rep-Stallion and near his face like a fly “Bet you can’t hit me here.” she teased. “Why you puny little pixie!” growled Rep and he launched his “BOLT OF THUNDER!” straight at Krysta, but she dodged it and the blast collided into Dementia, too late for her to raise her defense. She was furious. “Watch where you’re aiming?” she shouted at him.

“Hey, it wasn’t my fault!”

While they bickered and quarrelled, Starla and Rhymey decided to launch an attack.

“STAR SHOWER!”

“DRILL QUILL!”

The two minions were hit hard and went after Starla and Rhymey, but they stepped out of the way at the last minute causing Rep and Dementia to ram into Mysterious hard. “You clumsy fools!” growled Mysterious.

Another quarrel erupted with the three of them, and Dyno and Myte saw their chance and launched their “BOOM-BOOM ROCKETS!” Their rockets attacks minions in a huge bombardment so hard that the glowing sphere also slipped out of Mysterious’ possession and Krysta swopped in and grabbed it.

“Look what you two have done!” roared Mysterious.

“We?!” snapped Dementia

“What about you? You were supposed to hold it!” growled Rep

They broke out into such a quarrel and even began to fight and blast at each other. The ponies realized this was the perfect chance for them to attack with all they had. “It’s time to end this once and for all!” Lightning growled. That’s when his golden horn began to glow and he was which alerted the minions. “Guys!” cried Rep. The others looked up just in time as the other launched their strongest attacks.

Buddy’s whip and Rhymey’s sword were charged up and glowing strong while Artie was whirling his staff hard and fast.

“WHIPLASH STRIKE!”

“THRASH SLASH!”

“SUPER STAFF SPIN!”

All three of them slashed hard, and knocked the armor clear off the minions.

Then Starla went next, and clutched hew bow tight, ready to perform her new strongest attack. “GALACTIC PROJECTILE!” and her powerful arrow knocked the minions’ helmets off. The Spanish twins held hands, “BOOM-BOOM FLARE!” and attacked the unprotected minions hard, knocking them down.

(Skip to 4:18)

“My turn…!” Lightning roared as he stood tall and proud, bathed in glowing light and recited the chant and unleashed the “UNIFORCE!” The minions tried to run, but were struck full force and screamed loudly.

The minions had never been hit so hard, almost like colliding into a giant meteor, and they felt their magic powers begin to die out, as their knight forms starting to spark and flare-up. They quickly used the last bit of magic they had to separate from their knight forms transformed back into their regular forms, just in time as the magic of their three knight forms rose into the sky like souls leaving the body, flaring, jolting, and sparking wildly. They combined together in one big sphere and exploded in a great ball of fire!

At the same time, back on Unicornicopia, with knight-power gone, as the puppets were created from the very same source, all the evil puppets vanished in large puffs of black smoke, and were gone.

The fighters and guards began to cheer for joy, and Grand Ruler knew what had to have happened. “Lightning, you’ve done it!”

Lightning and his friends jumped for joy and cheered with delight, while the minions lay disgraced and beat up on the ground.

“We lost... again!” Mysterious cried.

“After everything we went through” added Rep

“It’s all over! Master Titan… we’ve failed!” cried Dementia.

The gang was still cheering, but then something caught their attention-- a portal gateway had opened, and the Grand Ruler’s voice called out. “Lightning, can you hear me?”

Lightning answered his master’s call. “Yes, we’re here.”

“Quickly everyone, come through this gate. Hurry, it will not hold for much longer.”

“Andale, amigos!” cried Dyno.

“Let’s go!” added Myte.

“Wait!” snapped Lightning. “We go, but we’re taking the minions with us. They’ve caused us enough trouble for one lifetime.” His friends couldn’t agree more, but when they turned to face where the minions were. “Hey!” cried Buddy Rose, “They’re gone!”

Sure enough, the minions were nowhere to be seen. They had slipped off to somewhere when everyone’s backs were turned. Still, there was no point in worry about that now, since they were blasted of practically all they had.

Once back in Unicornicopa, everyone settled down and relaxed to a wonderful celebration in Rainbow City. Grand Ruler was very, very pleased with everyone for their efforts, not only for going beyond the call of duty and seemingly put Titan’s minions out of commission, but they had also found half of a star stone.

It turned out that the glowing sphere Lightning and friends had found in the castle was in fact a defensive shell of soft magic that kept half a star stone-- the green part-- intact. This was what was supporting the evil powers that the minions had all this time, and also explained why they were able to detect the source with their scanners as the data hadn’t be programed into the visors.

“But, how did it end up in Titan’s castle?” Lightning asked. Even his teacher didn’t know the answer to that, but one thing was certain, it was now imperative they all continue to search for the remaining whole stone and the other half of the part they had just found. Even with Titan’s minions out of action, there were still other, more powerful evils still were lurking out there. “Our mission for great peace has not been fulfilled. Take good care, everyone, and never let your guard down.”

Everyone bowed to their ruler.

After the party broke up, everyone decided to head home for a much needed rest. Lightning and Krysta escorted Starla home to her home apartment-building. “Starla?” asked Lightning.

“Hmm…?”

“I…! I uh…” he just couldn’t bring himself to tell her once again, “Goodnight, Starla.” Then he left. “Goodnight, Lightning.” she whispered, and she didn’t stop staring at him until he was out of sight.

“Why didn’t you tell her?” Krysta asked.

“I just couldn’t do it.” Lightning said “It didn’t feel like the right time.”

Krysta sighed and rolled her eyes. She was still waiting impatiently for him to suck it up and tell Starla how he really felt. “Lightning, what am I going to do with you?”

(Promo)

A fairy just like Krysta has appeared in Unicornicopia and reveals to Krysta about her forgotten roots. Lightning and Krysta are then invited to Krysta’s home world to help restore Krysta’s memory, but Lightning also runs into Serpentari and finally recognizes her as the one who destroyed his planet, but soon finds she is far more powerful than he realizes and cannot take her on himself.

What will restoring Krysta’s memories achieve and how will Lightning fend off against the evil serpent demon?

Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic!”

(Next Episode: “Queen of the Fairies”)

Episode 18: Queen of the Fairies

EPISODE EIGHTEEN

A month had passed since the downfall of Titan’s minions, and no one knew just where they had gone, but it was certain that they would no longer be causing trouble.

Lightning and Krysta had also returned from a most grand adventure that had taken further beyond the stars than ever before, to a strange new world which they saved from certain disaster.

…But that was another story. (Starfleet Humans)

For now, it was almost dawn of a new day, most of the ponies across Unicornicopia were still sleeping, and the only ones who weren’t asleep were the night guards finishing their patrol, and soon the Grand Ruler would raise the sun to start a new day, but in a small meadow near Rainbow City, a bright flash of light sparked, and a little man about Krysta’s size with fairy wings appeared. “I made it!” he cried “This is where I will find her, I hope.” Then he fluttered off along his way.

While at the same time, Grand Ruler was awake and stood atop his floating palace ready to raise the sun.

(Music... 0:17 to 0:31)

For a moment he just stood there feeling the soothing breeze as it blew across his short mane and made his cape flutter higher than usual. “I believe it’s going to be a very unusual day.” he said to himself.

Then he raised the sun over the horizon, shedding sunlight all across the land below.

(Music at 2:35... but +1 Pitch)

At the same time, everyone was starting to feel the warmth and goodness of the morning. The night patrol ponies were ready to head home and turn in as the day-patrols came to take their shifts. The paper delivery ponies and the milk delivery ponies were already roaming about. Store keepers were opening up shop, and many other ponies were on their way to work, and soon young ponies were up and off to school.

(Music at 1:15 to 1:32)

Lightning and Krysta were just waking up themselves. Krysta let out a tiny little yawn as she fluttered out of her little house in the wall by Lighting’s bed. “Morning.” she said. Lightning smiled at his little friend “Just was I was about to say to you.” He sure seemed to be in a good mood today, and why wouldn’t he? It was a beautiful day, almost the kind where everything would go right, not too likely though with his lifestyle, but it was still a nice morning.

Lightning opened his window, sniffed the morning air He and Krysta just felt like singing, and so they did. They sang a song about everything being so great, and grand, and how they were grateful to have each other by their sides, and how "Life's a Happy Song"

and as they left the house and headed for Rainbow City, a lot of other ponies, their friends, even Grand Ruler took a moment to fly by and join in with the great song and dance.

As soon as the song was over everyone went back to their own business, and Lightning and Krysta headed for Cookie Dough’s for breakfast. When they finished eating, they felt so full and comfortable, they almost wished they didn’t have to get up and leave. “Once again, Cookie Dough, your cooking has really made our day.” said Lightning.

“Aw, go on. I’m happy to do it for you.” Cookie Dough said.

Lightning and Krysta said their goodbyes and then they both headed off to work, but as the left the restaurant, Krysta looked up when she some something small and twinkle zoom by high above. It almost looked like another fairy.

“Krysta, what is it?” Lightning asked. Krysta gazed all around, “I thought I saw…” she, but there was nothing there above the roofs anymore. “…Never mind.”

As Lightning and Krysta worked, helping others out all day, Krysta couldn’t forget what she thought she saw near the restaurant. She finally decided to tell Lightning. “You think you saw a fairy? How can that be?”

“I know it sounds crazy, but I tell you I did see something.”

“You know, Krysta, I believe you.”

“You… you do?”

Lightning nodded. “Think about it, many creatures of different shapes and sizes have entered this world before, and who knows, maybe you did see a fairy.”

Krysta felt her hopes rising. “Do you think maybe… this could be what we we’ve been searching for? Maybe I can finally get some answers to my past.”

“I hope so.” Lightning said with the same hope in his voice.

Later on, as they through the park, they decided to take a break and rest on a bench, when suddenly, they heard a tiny voice calling “Help! Help me!”

They searched around and saw someone tiny, about Krysta’s height, stuck in a mud puddle. Lightning pulled the little guy out. “Are you okay?” he asked, but then he and Krysta realized he was a fairy! “Lightning, that’s him. That’s who I saw.” Krysta said.

The other fairy’s ears twitched at the sound of her voice. He turned round and gasped. “It’s you! It’s really you!” he cried for joy. “Your majesty, I’ve found you!”

Lightning and Krysta gawked in confusion, and then the other fairy was confused. “Your majesty, don’t you recognize me?”

Krysta shook her head. “Why do you keep calling me your majesty?”

The other fairy looked shocked and didn’t know what to say.

“Who are you?” asked Lightning

“Oh forgive me…” said the young fairy “My name is Mallow. I come from the Valley of Fairies on the planet Luminous. Many years ago, we lost our queen, Krystalline, and we have been trying to find her on orders from our king, Topaz.”

Krysta winced at the sound of that name “Topaz?” she thought hard and deeply and felt that name sounded somewhat familiar, but she couldn’t put her finger on it, and even still both she and Lightning were still surprised by the way Mallow addressed Krysta. “I’m queen of the fairies?” she asked aloud “I… I just don’t remember.”

Mallow found this most disturbing and asked. “Did you, by any chance, happen to have suffered a severe blow to the head some years ago?” he asked. Krysta remembered that much. “I did hit my head pretty hard. In fact I still have a small scar where I was hit.”

Mallow, once again was speechless, and decided to try and explain things in hopes of helping Krysta remember…

“You a warping fairy, from the planet Luminous, just like me. We warping fairies, although small possess extraordinary powers. Not only are we able to lift very heavy things-- up to three-thousand times our own weight-- we possess the ability to do just as our class suggests. We warp the energy around us for offense and defense, and we also have the power to create instant portals that can teleport us and any parties to any location within range, even way out in space.”

Lightning and Krysta were unbelievably amazed, and Mallow cast a good look at Krysta “You are Krystalline, our fairy queen.”

Krysta’s mouth hung open wide, and Lightning’s eyes widened, and Mallow explained how many years ago the Valley of Fairies was attacked by an evil creature and was nearly destroyed by her onslaught, and the queen of fairies had run off to hide a powerful treasure which the invaders sought to obtain. “The crisis had passed, but our beloved queen never returned. She was missing and presumed to have been destroyed. While many gave up hope, King Topaz did not. So for over a decade, fairy explores from our world have been searching across the galaxy for so much as even a hint of our queen…

…and now, finally that long journey can end.”

Krysta found this to be astonishing, a little sad even, but she still couldn’t remember much. “How do you we know you’re telling the truth?” Lightning asked. Krysta’s features began to stiffen “This better not be another trick.”

“Believe me, I speak the truth. You are our fairy queen and if you give me the chance I can help restore your memories.” said Mallow, and he held out his hand to Krysta.

Krysta didn’t know what to say or do. This was all so sudden, but if this was really her chance to learn about herself and everything that went with her, she took Mallow’s hand. “I’m going too.” said Lightning. He still wasn’t too sure if Mallow was telling the truth or not, but Mallow understood and respected their suspicions, and allowed Lightning to come with him.

“But what about the Grand Ruler?” asked Krysta “You know he doesn’t want anyone leaving the kingdom without saying anything?”

“Yeah, and you’re doing what exactly?” Lightning said with sarcasm. Krysta realized that, and they both decided to quickly write a letter to the Grand Ruler telling them what they were doing, and where they were going. He responded immediately, and approved of Lightning’s mission, wanting to know more about this new planet and Krysta’s race himself. However, to ensure Lightning’s safety he had enclosed in his letter a small bit of magic which infused into Lightning’s insignia on his armor-- the return spell. If anything bad happened, he and Krysta could just warp out.

With that settled, Mallow began to wave his arms and a smaller gateway portal appeared. Krysta and Lightning were amazed. “Come, let’s be on our way.” said Mallow, and all three of them leapt into the portal, and flew out across space on a pathway.

They soon emerged in what had to be the most beautiful landscape ever on the planet Luminous; beautiful meadows, forests, even sparkling waterfalls and lakes. “I’ve never seen a planet like this before, except for Harmonious.” said Lightning.

“Do not be surprised my friends.” said Mallow “Luminous is one of the most beautiful planets in the known galaxy. The Warping Fairies are the main leaders, but our world is also home to many wildlife animals and other creatures, but do not be fooled by our kind exteriors. We can be quite vindictive and are fully prepare to fight to defend ourselves if need be.”

“So, tell me, this Valley of Fairies-- where is it?” asked Krysta.

“The valley lies within the Sparkling Forest. Follow me.”

Through the trees and brambles they went. Krysta and Mallow were able to fly through with ease because they were small, but the thickets were so large and crowded, Lightning had a hard time getting through. “Next time I think I’ll bring an axe.” he grumbled.

Soon, they arrived at their destination. “Wow!” was all Krysta and Lightning could exclaim. There was a small silver palace with gold turrets on the towers, and all around it was a beautiful valley with a small pond in the center, and flowers and toadstools were near the edges. A small Cliffside with a two waterfalls, lots of tree houses, burrows, and just ordinary hammocks handing around, and of course, everywhere they looked they saw more fairies.

Every single sight and every single second, Krysta and Lightning felt that this was no trick or trap. “I can barely breathe!” squeaked Krysta who was really at a loss for more words. That’s when Mallow broke the silence by calling out “HEAR YE ALL!” which captured everyone’s attention “The queen has returned!”

That’s when all the fairies gazed towards Krysta in excitement then rushed up, completely surrounding Krysta and carrying her away. “Hey, wait for me!” called Lightning as he ran to catch up with them.

The fairies brought to the royal palace, and the royal fanfare was sounded, and one of the guards announced “His royal highness, King Topaz of the fairies.” And out flew a muscular, gold bearded fairy king, wearing royal garbs and a crown, but he did seem rather friendly, and when his eyes fell upon Krysta he felt his heart racing. “Krystalline…! Darling, is it really you?”

Krysta felt a little embarrassed, but still confused. The King approached her and gazed her body from head to toe. There was no doubt in his mind she was his long lost wife and queen. “Don’t you remember me, my dear?” Topaz asked.

Krysta shook her head, and yet as she gazed upon the king she couldn’t help but feel something from deep in her mind, but all it did was confuse her more. Mallow explained everything to everyone, and the fairies and the king were completely shocked. “You’ve lost your memories? No, I will not stand for this.” said Topaz, and he immediately hollered to the other fairies “It is time.”

“Time?” Krysta asked nervously.

“For what?” added Lightning.

Before long, Krysta was taken into the palace, while Lightning had to remain outside as he couldn’t fit inside. “What are you doing to her?” Lightning asked with worry.

“Fear not…” said Mallow “We are only trying to help.” He explained that the fairies had special remedies for familiar ailments and conditions, even amnesia. Krysta was going to be put to sleep by the power of a special potion they had, and while she slept her memories would slowly begin to unlock. “By the time she awakens, it should all have come back to her. You can trust us Lightning. We mean only good.”

Lightning calmed down. “Just be easy on her. I’ve known her for so long, and I promised I wouldn’t let anything happen to her.”

Mallow understood Lightning’s concern. Already he and many of the others fairies were immediately considering Lightning and all of Starfleet to be worthy friends and allies having saved their queen and caring for her, as well as fighting for just causes.

Soon, Krysta was sleeping very deeply. All there was left to do was wait for her to awaken, which wouldn’t take too long. Lightning peeked through the tiny windows of the palace and saw her. As glad as he was that she was going to get her memories back, but still…
“Something troubles you, Lightning. It shows in your eyes.” said King Topaz.

Lightning sighed “I know Krysta’s supposed to be the queen and all, but… well… she’s my best friend-- the best I ever had. We’ve been through so much together and, well… after this is over, what then?”

It was obvious to everyone that Lightning was worried about losing Krysta and maybe having to say goodbye to her. Not one of the fairies, not even the King knew what to say.

Suddenly, ground quivered a little, everyone felt it, and off in the distance a flock of birds scrambled ever the forest in fear. Mallow’s wings twitched “The monster has returned?!”

“Monster?” snapped Lightning.

“This is exactly how it started years ago.” replied Mallow “First the ground starts to tremble, and animals show fear. Then that very fiend who attacked our village revealed herself and almost destroyed everything.”

Lightning’s features hardened. “I’m going to go check this out.”

“We will come with you.” said Mallow. “No!” Lightning snapped “You all stay here and look after things. If things get bad I don’t want any of you getting hurt, not after what happened to you before.” Then he spread out his wings and flew up and over the forest.

No sooner had he made it far to the other side could he spot the danger ahead in the meadows--something coming that way. He landed in the fields below just as the creature revealed herself, Serpentari. She stopped so suddenly in her path of destruction. “A Starfleet pony?!” she growled “Well, fancy running into one of you here.”

Lightning stood where he was, stiff as a board as he gazed at the evil serpent-demon. Now that he had finally seen her up close, he compared her to his past thoughts. “You…” and sure enough, he could see all the flashbacks from that terrible day including when he first ever saw her! "You..!” he felt his anger and outrage boiling critically “Harmonious!”

Serpentari hissed at the sound of that word “You’re from Harmonious? I thought I destroyed that miserable world and all its life forms ages again.” she laughed wickedly, which only made Lightning grow angrier. “You… destroyed my planet! You killed my family; All my people!”

“Fool!” growled Serpentari “I am responsible for the destruction of countless planets and the deaths of many races in my search for the star stones, and your death shall follow if you don’t tell me where the stone your fairy friend is hiding fast!”

Lightning’s ears twitched, “But why… why are you are after the stones so badly that you’d have to kill so many innocent creatures and their homes?”

Serpentari’s eyes glared angrily “That is… NO CONCERN OF YOURS!” and she dashed forth to strike Lightning. “Starfleet Magic!” He transformed into battled-mode quickly, and leapt out of the way “Murderer! I swear I’ll get you for all those lives you took including the lives of my family!” he shouted.

Serpentari roared loudly and angrily, but she didn’t dare use her Plasma Vapour for fear of destroying the fairies’ valley, thus, she wouldn’t get the information she wanted, but she was still able to fight normally. On, and on she kept dashing for Lightning. Lightning kept dodging hoping he could tire the demon out, but there was no chance of that for Serpentari was much, much larger and defiantly stronger than he was and could go on much longer than he could. Still, Lightning wouldn’t let her near Krysta’s village. “I’m not going to let you hurt the fairies! You hear me?”

Serpentari merely laughed at him, “It is you who shall hear me… AND FEEL MY WRATH!!” With that, she burrowed deep under the ground. “Uh oh!” cried Lightning and he decided to fly upward into the air before Serpentari popped up again to try and avoid a sneak-attack

Suddenly, the demon burst up through the ground and bolted way up high, straight into the sky, straight for him. “Whoa!” Lightning swerved out of the way just in time. “Ha! You missed me!” that’s what he thought when Serpentari’s long scaly tail came at him from below, whamming right into him and sending him crashing to the ground.

Serpentari then turned round in midair and shouted “SERPENT SOLDIERS!” and she magically began to spawn a swarm of eggs that immediately hatched into her soldier minions. They huddled around Lightning as he got up and held him where he was. Lightning struggled to break free but he couldn’t against those soldiers holding him down like that.

Serpentari sniggered wickedly as she gazed over at the forest, and sent her few remaining soldiers into the forest, straight for the fairies’ village. “Those poor, pitiful, fools! It’s a shame their queen has only just returned after being away for so long, only to face the end of her land, and once she tells me where the stone is hidden, I will have no further use for her anymore either.”

Lightning felt his blood turn cold. “You wouldn’t?!”

“I CAN AND I SHALL!” shouted Serpent. “Oh, no you won’t!” snapped a voice from beyond the forest, followed by a blaze of light, and the other serpent soldiers emerged from the brambles in retreat. “Who dares to defy me?” snarled Serpentari. That’s when a small portal appeared, and she stepped out and was followed by a swarm of other fairies behind her. She wore a royal warrior’s garment and armor and was carrying a fairy-sized scepter. “Wow! Krysta?” exclaimed Lightning. His friend smiled “The new and improved… Queen Krystalline.” she said with pride. She then cast an angry glare at Serpentari “I remember everything now!”

She explained that after she had hidden the star stone, which was the fairies secret treasure in a last ditch effort, but before she could do anything else she was attacked by one of the serpent soldiers that had been chasing her, and she was shoved through the space-portal so hard, she slipped off the pathway and into space where she was teleported hard to a distant world. She ended up on a faraway planet and slammed headfirst right into a boulder. She blacked out, and when she came too all she had lost her memories; all except a small portion of her name-- Krysta.

“Now, I’m back and stronger than ever.” she said “Serpentari! You and your kind are not welcome here on Luminous! I warn you to leave immediately, or suffer the wrath of the fairies.”

Serpentari turned red with fury was not taken in by any of that, and she began to charge forth ready to strike the swarm. “Guys, get out of there!” cried Lightning, but the fairies didn’t move, and instead, at Krysta and Topaz’s command, some of the fairies teamed up alongside her. “Now!” the king shouted, and all at once they combined their magic to larger force field to prevent the evil demon from moving any further and bouncing her clear back. She growled and roared in outrage “This can’t be!” and then the fairies decided to get rid of her.

Krysta held her scepter out at the wicked demon. “Serpentari, as queen of the fairies, I hereby banish you and your soldiers from our world forever! Ready everybody?” The fairies all shouted out and joined her and the king in creating a large portal that began to suck Serpentari in towards it. Still, the evil demon was determined not to give up and began to struggle against the pull, and none of the fairies could give it anymore power, or move from where they were standing or the portal would break. “Too bad fairies!” laughed Serpentari “You’re time is nearly up!” By this time, she didn’t care if she had the information he needed or not regarding the star stone, she was just going to wipe them all out instantly with her Plasma Vapour, but as she readied herself to attack, while still holding against the pull of the vortex behind him.

“No!” Lightning roared, and managed to break free from the serpent soldiers, and his horn was glowing again. “What are you doing?!” growled Serpentari.

Lightning’s narrowed his eyes “This one’s for my family! …UNIFORCE!!” The force collided into Serpentari. It couldn’t destroy her as it wasn’t yet strong enough, but it forced her back hard right into the portal. As she disappeared, she thundered as loud as she could “WE’LL MEET AGAIN, LIGHTING DAWN!!” The she was gone and the portal vanished. The rest of the serpent warriors vanished instantly, and all was quiet.

Everyone cheered for joy, and Lightning felt a little strange. He had just used the uniforce, and yet he didn’t feel as tired or wiped out than he usually did. He didn’t understand, but he was just joyful that the danger had passed, and more than that, he now knew who Serpentari really was he promised himself to make good on his other major promise to himself: to avenge the destruction of Harmonious and the deaths of his family and people.

For now, the fairies honored Lightning for his heroism, as well as returning their queen to them and having cared for her for all those years. “Words cannot begin to express how grateful we are.” said King Topaz “You will always be honored a great hero to us, Lightning Dawn.” He bowed to him along with all the others, and Lightning bowed in thanks. Lightning then gazed deeply at Krysta with slight sadness on his face, and she expressed the same as she gazed at him.

“Lightning… I-- I…”

Lightning smiled and shook his head softly “It’s up to you. Whatever you decide, I won’t hold it against you.”

A tiny tear fell from Krysta’s eye. Then she watched as Lightning stepped back, but he didn’t stop looking at her. Then he clicked the insignia on his armor, activating the return-spell, and warped back to Unicornicopia.

All the fairies continued to watch the light fly higher into the sky, and Krysta felt her heart-breaking. Topaz could see how much his wife felt about Lightning, and had an idea of how to make things better.

Upon returning to Unicornicopia, Lightning found all his friends waiting for him. “Lightning!” cried Starla. They all ran up to him to welcome him home, but stopped when they noticed the spiritless look on his face.

Lightning didn’t even acknowledge his friends there. He just wanted to be alone, really alone. He sadly walked into his house and slowly shut the door. The others expected why he felt like this, and not one of them knew what to say or do.

For the rest of the day and right through to nightfall, Lightning lay down on his bed staring sadly at the little door in the wall that led to Krysta’s house. All Lightning could think about was her-- from the day the first met, and every single thing they had been through, completely inseparable. Then again, he knew he did the right thing. He had fulfilled his promise and helped Krysta find her home and roots. It wouldn’t really right to ask her to come back with him.

He just hoped she was happy, and that he himself would be happy… eventually!

Soon there was a knock at the door. Not wanting to be too rude, Lightning got up and opened it a crack and he heard Starla’s voice “Lightning, it’s us.”

“Please, I really don’t want to see anyone right now.”

The others snickered cheekily. “But there’s someone out here who wants to see you.” said Buddy Rose.

Still not wanting to appear too rude, Lightning opened the door to find all his friends and who else he saw made his eyes brighten “Krysta?” His little friend nodded and fluttered over to him hugging him warmly. Lightning hugged her softly. “But what are you doing here? I thought that--”

“Well, I left some of my things behind. I also couldn’t leave just yet, without a proper goodbye. Oh, and also, in case you forgot-- I live here!”

Krysta ultimately decided that she just couldn’t leave. She owed Lightning her life, and now more than ever that he fulfilled his promise by restoring her to her roots and finding her home, her family.

“You gave up your home and everything you had… for me?” Lightning asked. “Well, not exactly given up.” Krysta said, and she admitted that she’d have to go back and forth between worlds every now and then. She was the fairy queen, but Lightning was also her friend. The absolute best she ever had in all the galaxy. “Lightning, you’re stuck with me for life.”

Lightning almost felt like crying as he hugged Krysta warmly. The others all had tears in their eyes too.

“Friendship, love and believing are powerful gifts.” said a familiar voice-- The Grand Ruler appeared before everyone. They bowed to him. “Those as strong as these can never be shattered, not even across the vast unknowns of space.”

Lightning and Krysta bowed to him thankfully, and Grand Ruler placed his hand on Lightning’s shoulder. “You did well on your mission, Lightning. Not only did you fulfil a personal promise to a friend, you have provided us with new allies.”

King Topaz appeared with a large scroll he was holding. “We decided to join allegiance with your wonderful Starfleet.” he said “We have seen what you are capable of, and that you only intend to do good as do we. Together, I believe we can all help each other in many, many ways.”

“Well said, your majesty.” Grand Ruler said.

“Why thank you, your majesty.” added Topaz.

The two rulers bowed to one another and officially signed the treaty forming the allegiance. Grand Ruler promised to prepare a team of Starfleet officers to set up camp villages to Luminous to have forces close by to aid the planet and all the life forms there, to which Topaz and Krysta agreed.

Topaz then hugged Krysta goodbye and that he would see her again soon. “Take care of your, my love.” he said to her.

“That I promise you.” Krysta said, and then watched her husband vanish through a small portal he created. “A new era of allegiance has dawned upon us.” Grand Ruler said “But I’m afraid time is of the essence.”

This put Lightning in mind of what he had totally forgotten to ask for or mention. “Krysta, tell us. Exactly where did you hide the other half of the star stone?”

Krysta explained how it all happened, and how she was forced to send the stone to a planet very, very far away. She had never been to it before, but had heard stories of it. “It is a planet called Equestria.”

The Grand Ruler suddenly winced in shock at that name. “Equestria!” he muttered softly under his breath, but the others already noticed him in near-shock. “Sire, are you alright?” asked Artie. Grand Ruler remained stiff and silent, and then he fainted. “Master?” cried Lightning.

While far, far away, near the other side of the galaxy. The planet Equestria stood blissfully and beautifully, especially seeing as how they had just through a great ordeal.

Some of the inhabitants-- who were normal ponies unlike the space alicorns-- were busy preparing for a big celebration-- the coronation of the planet’s newest princess, Twilight Sparkle, whom had just saved her friends and land from a dastardly curse, and she herself had just been transformed into an alicorn pony.

She was so excited about her coronation-ball that she could hardly contain herself. Her faithful assistant, Spike the baby dragon, had even bought a new tuxedo to wear to the ball. “How do I look?” he asked.

“…Just dashing.” Twilight answered while smiling at him. “I bet I won’t look as you will, your highness.”

Twilight felt very embarrassed when she was addressed that way. “Spike, I haven’t even been officially crowned yet. To be honest, I’m really nervous. Will I be a good princess?”

“You’ll be a great princess. I know it.” Spike said “Look at all you’ve done, and just think of what you’re going to do for others. I’ll bet you anything that right now things will be--” he stopped when... KAPOW!! There was a loud exploding sound followed a savage earthquake that shook everything so violently.

The tremor was felt all across Ponyville, and all the ponies panicked and stumbled about in the chaos, but before long it went away and all quiet again. “What was that all about?” cried Spike.

“I don’t know…” Twilight said while panting “It wasn’t Discord, I know that. He was encased in stone, remember.”

Spike remembered-- Discord had ultimately reverted back to his own wicked tricks, and just as the ponies had threatened, he was sealed back in stone, but that still didn’t explain the earthquake, but Spike and Twilight decided to just let it be. No serious damage had been done anyway.

Just then, however, a magic letter had appeared from the Crystal Empire. It was form her brother Shining Armor, and his wife Princess Cadance.

Dear Twily…

How’s my fav little sis?

By the time you read this, we’re sure that you will have already felt that earthquake. It first struck here in the Crystal Empire, and then it was reported to have hit Canterlot. We don’t know where this is coming from, but we got word from Princess Celestia not to panic and that you have to ensure the citizens of Ponyville that everything is under control.

We may have to even postpone the coronation ball, but hopefully we won’t. If we don’t, see you there.

Love from Shining Armor and Cadance.

Now Twilight and Spike weren’t sure what to think. They just hoped the earthquakes would cease and nothing worse would come out of it.

(Promo)

In our next episode, Rhymey heads off to Equestria on his mission to get the star stone, but the Grand Ruler seems worried and upset about something deeply. He then leads Lightning and Krysta to a special room within his castle to reveal a very shocking and yet interesting secret he had long kept from others.

What is this secret Grand Ruler reveals, and how will Lightning and Krysta react to it?

Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic!”

(Next episode: “Histories Unfold!”)

Author's Note

Before you proceed to the next episodes, there as several things you should know about MY WORLD of MLP

Explained in THIS blog https://www.fimfiction.net/blog/737638/the-world-of-mlp-according-to-me

Episode 19: Histories Unfold

Author's Note

When thinking of a name for the Grand Ruler, I looked over hundreds of different names and chose the best one.

…

(It is pronounced… CHE-LES-TOW)

I am not ripping off Celestia's name

Episode 19: Histories Unfold

EPISODE NINETEEN

Ever since their ultimate vanquish on the Dark Planet, Titan’s disgraced minions had retreated to a cave on a faraway planet halfway across the galaxy, where all they ever did was curl around a bonfire and berate themselves for their ultimate failure. Where would they go now? What would they do? Even if they managed to conquer a world, Starfleet was bound to come after them and they would get beaten again. They had tried and tried, but Starfleet was just too much!

Mysterious pitched a small stick at the fire and hung his head low. “Failures, disgraces; we are nothing.”

“I guess we just sit here and wait for the end to come?” said Rep-Stallion. Dementia sighed heavily “We’ll probably fail at that too. We’re nothing but fools!”

Suddenly, they all heard the sound of someone sniggering in the shadows, it said. “You’re only a fool if you give up.”

The minions huddled together. “Who’s there? Who are you?” asked Mysterious. Out stepped, what appeared to be, a pony that almost resembled the space alicorns-- genetically altered-- She had a humanoid body complete with all the normal features, but her coat was black as night. She had a voluminous flowing mane and tail that shimmered with shadowy light, and she wore dark armor with a large crescent-moon marking. “Like all of you, I, too, am of the fallen evil. But together perhaps we all could be more.”

The minions felt evil’s grin returning to their faces for the first time in a while. “We’re listening.” said Mysterious.

The pony creature explained how she had enemies, who were also ponies-- which the minions assumed to be Starfleet-- but they soon discovered that she was referring to the Equestrian ponies. “Now that I full-fledged power again, I seek vengeance on those who had vanquished me before, but as much as I hate to admit this, I could use help. Already the Equestrians are feeling a small portion of my wrath, but to make things absolute and ensuring of ultimate victory, I wouldn’t mind having a few... how shall I say it-- helpers.”

The minions weren’t too sure at first. “We help you-- What’s in it for us?”

“Agree to help me, and I will grant you all powers and magic beyond your wildest dreams. Together we shall be unstoppable, and no one, nothing will stand in our way. Not even the ponies.”

The minions liked the sound of this. “So, do we have a deal?” the creature asked as she extended her hand. The minions agreed to her contract. “By the way, what’s your name?” asked Rep-Stallion.

“Just call me Nightmare Moon.”

In Unicornicopia, Rhymey was selected for the mission to travel to Equestria and obtain the star stone which was there. He would be going alone, and he was most excited. He tried to do some research before it was for him to go, but strangely the archives had no information at all regarding Equestria.

This struck everyone as very strange. They had all remembered the other night when the Grand Ruler had fainted at the mention of Equestia. He had since recovered, but he had been acting rather peculiar. He seemed rather sad or regretful about something regarding Equestria. Obviously he knew of the planet, yet whenever anyone asked him about it or why it wasn’t listed in the archives, he seemed to act rather distant and did not wish to talk about it.

The royal house-keeping seemed concerned for his majesty as well. He had not slept well or eaten much, but it was always the same story; he just didn’t wish to talk about it. Lightning and Krysta were getting really worried, but for the moment they were escorting Rhymey to the sky palace.

“Just think-- a planet of regular ponies.” Lightning said “I know it’s what ponies originally are, but to actually meet them-- Galloping Galaxies! I wish I was going too.”

“Well don’t forget the real mission.” Krysta said “If the star stone still is there, we better get it before Serpentari does, but at least his majesty is letting Rhymey explore as well.”

Rhymey felt both excited and nervous at the same time.

“There’s no telling just who or what I’ll find,
So many curiosities fill my mind.
Many creatures may come along,
But I will venture brave and strong.
And should I come across any evil there,
I’ll just give them an icy stare…
Grrrrrrrrrraaah…!”

Krysta and Lightning exchanged looks of concern. “He’s ready.” they both said.

Upon arriving at the palace, the Grand Ruler was sitting on his throne, but he seemed deeply entranced in his thoughts. He snapped out of his trance when Captain Shaina announced the friends’ arrival. “Oh, I’m sorry, I was miles away.”

Lightning and Krysta believed him, and were beginning to feel this couldn’t go on anymore. Nonetheless, Grand Ruler escorted them all to the portal-chamber. Krysta and her fairies had strengthened the portal for the very long journey to Equestria. It was really that far away, so far that it would take much longer to get there than normal skip hops to nearby star-systems.

Grand Ruler was preparing to give Rhymey an extra super return-spell power. It wouldn’t take him as long to travel back to Unicornicopia with it, but suddenly he got lost in his thoughts again and just stood where he was. Lightning gave him a small tap which startled him, and made everyone jump. “Oh, please forgive me. I trailed off. I’ve… been very busy today.”

Lightning and Krysta didn’t buy that a bit. Still, Grand Rule gave Rhymey his return spell, and wished him luck on his mission. “Keep in mind though. These ponies are nothing like us and you will be regarded as a stranger to them and their ways.”

Rhymey acknowledged, and then he turned to face the portal.

“With thoughts in my head, and nerves in my tum,
Look out, Equestria, HERE I COME!”

He dashed right at it, jumped through and was on his way.

Grand Ruler just kept staring sadly at the portal. He looked more bummed than ever. Lightning approached him. “Master, what is troubling you?”

Grand Ruler looked up. “Nothing is troubling is Me.” he lied.

“Sire, you are troubled.” said Krysta “We want to know why?”

“I don’t wish to discuss it.” He turned to walk out of the chamber, but Lightning wasn’t willing to let him off this time, and he quickly sped in front of him, blocking his way. “No!” he snapped sharply “You’re not going anywhere until you tell us your problem!”

Grand Ruler felt livid. “Lightning Dawn, how DARE you speak like that to me!”

“He dares because he’s concerned about you, and so am I.” said Krysta. “We want to help you.” added Lightning “You always taught me never to be afraid to talk about things like this, especially when they really matter, and that no one can really help you if you don’t.”

Grand Ruler hesitated a moment, but Lightning was right. “Both of you come with me.”

He led the two into his master bedroom. He then pulled on a secret rope which pulled a large tapestry up high. Then he pressed keystone into the wall causing the wall to slide up to reveal a specially sealed door. Lightning and Krysta were astonished. Grand Ruler then told them both “I never, ever let anyone else, and I mean ANYONE ELSE in here. Even my royal housekeeping doesn’t know of its existence. However, if the two of you solemnly swear not to mention any of this to another living soul, I will show you something so extraordinary that what follows after you may refuse to believe, but it is all true.”

Krysta and Lightning promised solemnly, and with that, Grand Ruler put his horns through the keyholes dispelling the lock, and the doors opened wide, revealing an elevator lift which took them down, down, and they then emerged in a pitch dark room which slowly begun to light up with torches place along the walls. Lightning and Krysta gazed in awe at the beautiful stone room. It was decorated with lovely wild flowers and small trees. Two soft and beautiful waterfalls glistened in the light like diamonds as they filled up the cute little stream that stretch all the way around the edge of the room.

A soft beautiful music score was heard as well. It felt so relaxing and soothing.

“This is my private sanctuary.” Grand Ruler said as he led them over to the central area “It is my own special place where I come whenever I need refuge after an exhausting day, or just to be alone with my thoughts.”

He and Lightning sat down on a couple of stone benches on a circular platform. In the center stood a beautiful fountain that had a beautiful statue on the top. It was a lovely normal, alicorn with a long horn, Pegasus wings, and long mane and tail. Atop her head was a golden tiara, and a picture of a bright sun was painted on her flank.

“Wow! She’s beautiful.” said Lightning. “Who is she…?” asked Krysta.

Grand Ruler felt a little down again, but answered “She is Celestia; Princess and head monarch of the planet Equestria where Rhymey just went.”

Lightning and Krysta became more amazed than ever. “But how do you know so much about her?” Lightning asked.

Grand Ruler hesitated for a bit, and decided it was time to tell his story.

It all began well over one-thousand years ago.

*Grand Ruler’s POV*

I was born in the magical world of Equestria. I was the only son born to two Earth ponies, and I was named Celesto.

Yet, even at such a young age I felt very unusual and different than others. Then one day I discovered why. I was an alicorn, but I had golden wings, and instead of having just one horn on my head, I had three. All of them were gold, but why this was, not a soul had a clue, not even my parents. Regardless, they loved me very deeply and raised me as best as two loving parents would.

When I was a little older, my parents introduced me to many of their friends, but they all seemed to stare and act strangely at me because of my horns and wings. This made me feel very uneasy. No one had ever seen a pony like me before, and not a single other pony was like me either.

On my very first day of school, I could feel all the other children staring at me. I wished they wouldn’t. I tried to make friends and be nice but all the others just seemed to go away, they didn’t want me near. Some acted nervous around me as if I were a monster and others they refused to let me join in and play and just laughed at me and called me names.

“Tri horned, freak!”

“Unicrock!”

“Magical mistake, the circus is that way.”

The worst one of all was a pony named Dusk Shine. Every day he would go out of his very way to pick on me, or to laugh at the way I looked. I tried to tell him that I couldn’t help having three horns and golden wings, but he continued to bother me to such an extent. “Look everyone, the little foal’s going to cry and throw a hissy fit.” He would say, and everyone would laugh at me, and mock me by making crying sounds expecting me to start blubbering.

I didn’t throw any fits, but I did run out of the school near tears. I felt so alone, so unwanted. I began to hate the way I looked and feeling so different. I would often sing a sad little song of how lonely it was to be one of a kind, and wishing I could be different so others would begin to appreciate me more.

After all, as would often sing, "It's Lonely Being One-of-a-kind!"

Still, it wasn’t all that bad. As I got older I began to embrace some of the wonders of being alone, with still some lingering hope that I would make friends one day. I learned many magic spells, but in my spare time I learned amazing things like how to stand up right on my hind legs and seem taller. I taught myself how to dance and studied choreography, and even martial arts.

Still, no matter how talented I ever became or how hard I ever worked, I never earned a cutie mark, but I couldn’t understand why, and began to feel that maybe it was something to do with my being different than most ponies. Perhaps it was the fact that I was multi-talented, or destined for other things. Whichever the reason, the magic of cutie marks just wouldn’t sink into me; like an invisible wall preventing the magic from coming in.

Worse than that, I tried to show off my talents hoping to earn a little respect from the others, but all it did was increase the tension and the bullying from them all, especially from Dusk Shine. He threw an apple at me that got stuck on my left horn. “Hey, look every-pony, that apple’s got a mutant on it.”

Everyone laughed at me so much that I couldn’t take it anymore.

I began to study harder with magic, and I found something that would help me-- A cover up spell that turned my golden wings white to match the color of my coat. I also made my center horn white and made the other two vanish. Now I looked normal, and just in time for one of the biggest events for school ponies…The Pony Games! A great event where colts and fillies came out to meet others and get along, make friends. Also, we would learn many things like how to fly better, master their magic, and also to be inspected and judged by the future ruler of Equestria-- Celestia, and she herself had also come to participate in the games as part of her training for her future coronation.

That was when I first saw her. I couldn’t stop gazing at her, and she gazed right back at me and blinked twice while smiling directly at me. “Well, what do you know? I think she likes you.” said Dusk Shine. I was amazed. This was the first time he wasn’t rude or mean to me, possibly was because of the spell hiding my horns and wings, but I couldn’t help but gaze at Celestia again and she gazed back at me.

The games went well, and everyone did their best. I showed off more of my new tricks and skills which helped me clear through a lot of the trials with ease, and everyone applauded me instead of laughing at me. I felt so happy, so wonderful for the first time. Yet every few moments I would notice that Celestia was gazing at me with great interest, and she seemed to applaud for me almost a great deal more than the other players.

During a lunch break, Dusk Shine actually invited me to sit with him and some of his friends, and they kept saying how incredible I was, and it was Dusk who persuaded me to go to Celestia, who was eating her lunch under a tree alone.

As nervous as I felt, I went over, but our eyes met. “Nice day.” she said to me. She sounded a little shy and nervous.

“Yes.”

“For the games… I mean.”

“Sure.”

We kept exchanging remarks back and forth, and we both felt a little silly, Celestia also noticed my wings kept twitching, and I kept feeling my only visible horn in worry. “Are you alright? Why do you keep feeling your wings and your horn?”

I didn’t want to tell her truth for fear she would reject me like other in the past, so I just said “Why, am I doing something wrong?”

Celestia apologized, “I don’t mean it that way.”

I apologized to her, and then she asked for my name. “Celesto...? I like that name. It means… heavenly.” I blushed, “Really? Well, so does Celestia. I think it’s… beautiful.”

She giggled softly.

“Um… Celestia… after the games… I know you’re the future ruler and you’re pretty busy, but… would you… would you walk home with me?”

She hesitated for a moment, but she agreed. “I will… Celesto-- I think you’re sweet.”

My heart leapt with joy. She thought I was sweet, and with my newfound confidence blossoming in my eyes, I finished the games as one of the top five grand winners along with Dusk Shine. “Hey, you know… you’re all right.” he said. It was a sign that he and I would be friends, except when we had a playful wrestle to congratulate each other for our victories the magic spell wore off and my horns and wings were exposed. Everyone gasped loudly, and as expected, many of them began to laugh at me and call me names again. The referees declared me disqualified, thinking I had been cheating all this time, using magic, and confiscated all my medals and awards.

“Yeah, you’re all right,” said Dusk “All right as in wrong, Tri-horned reject!”

Celestia saw and heard everything and thought everyone was being very unfair. She saw me run off on my own with a look of extreme sadness in my eyes.

“Celesto?” she called as she raced after me “Celesto?” I stopped and turned to face her. “Well, what do you want?” I asked almost sharply. Celestia walked up to me. “You… you promised to walk home with me, remember?”

“Aren’t you going to laugh at my horns and wings too? Every-pony else is.”

She shook her head and said with honesty and truth, “I don't think there's anything wrong with your horns. In fact, I think they're handsome. Much better than the way you were trying to hide them.”

I felt a little better hearing that from her, but still “They make me different from every-pony else. Everyone picks on me just because I look different.”

“But that’s what makes you so grand, unique and special.” Celestia said “Combine that with your sweet personality-- why any filly should consider herself lucky to be seen with you.”

Celestia was very kind-hearted and understanding; as she was raised and trained to be. She never judged anything by how it looked, but what they could do.

It became clear to me that even though she was future ruler of Equestria… I had made a friend. Something I had always wanted, and amazingly, something she had always wanted too; with all her training and prepping, it felt so nice to her to interact and share with someone else.

(the song)

As I grew older I mastered more magic, and skills, and continued to practice my own arts. I would often see Celestia from time to time, sometimes even at her own request. I even taught her some of my tricks like how to stand upright and dance in many other ways besides ballroom dancing. She enjoyed every moment of it, and she taught me some other types of spells, like even how that when in future, she’d help raise the sun in the sky and welcome the day. We were such great friends, and we grew closer and closer every day.

Celestia showed me that friendship was a very powerful gift, and she felt honored to share it with me, and I felt the same way. Eventually, Celestia was crowned princess, and we couldn’t be together as often anymore. She had her duties to attend to and a hefty schedule.

We still wrote to each other, but ultimately we couldn’t bear not to be without one another. So I decided I would become a royal guard. It was the only thing I could think of that would at least allow me to be closer to her.

The training was vigorous and put many strains on me. However, I managed to graduate with full honors, and not only that, I qualified for a special tournament that would decide who would be captain of the Royal Canterlot Guard, and serve as Princess Celestia’s right-wing pony.

Unfortunately for me, Dusk shine and several other bullying ponies entered the tournament as well. They hadn’t changed a bit over the years. They were ruder than ever and continuously picked on me trying to weaken my confidence. “Give up, Tri-Horned retard!” snapped Dusk “No way the princess is going to want a freak show like you by her side.”

I paid no attention to them and only promised to give it my all. When the tournament began, Celestia wished us all the best of luck, but the way she constantly would take a moment to gaze over at me, it was almost as if she were hoping that I would win.

I did very well, thanks to my skills and training. I was still taunted at and teased by Dusk, and I even found out that all he seemed to care about was winning just so he could be by the princess’ side for popularity reasons. He saw her nothing more as a trophy and promising privileges, not caring at all that the princess would at times need protection. This angered me severely, and made Celestia feel unhappy to overhear it as well.

By the end of the tournament, it was down to me and Dusk. We both had fought long and hard to make it that far, and now the deciding match had come. “I’m going to enjoy taking you out, you overgrown manure pile.” he snarled at me. I said nothing and just merely concentrated. I took a moment to gaze over at Celestia, and she threw a handkerchief at me as a sign for luck. Every other pony and creature in the crowd began to realize what was going between Celestia and me, and actually cheered me on, and this greatly angered Dusk.

The match began!

I did very well, as best I could, but after a few water breaks, I began to feel sleepy and tired, and it slowed me down, ultimately costing me my victory, and Dusk Shine was declared the champion. It was the biggest disappointment of my life, and though I wanted to take my defeat like a stallion, I walked off in shame.

However, when Dusk Shine went to Celestia to accept his “Prize” and the many riches and glorious things that went with it, it was discovered and revealed that he had cheated in the tournament by putting sleep-powder that dissolved the water I drank to refresh in-between breaks, which was what made me sleepy and easier to beat. “I did it for all of us!” snapped Dusk. “Who the heck wants the three horned mistake by their side.”

Celestia finally lost her patience, and angrily slapped him across the face herself. Everyone gasped in shock, and Celestia spoke severely to Dusk. “You are no knight, Dusk Shine. A Knight has honor, respect, courage... and most of all, they have heart... like Celesto has!"

As expected, Dusk scoffed and could only say "But he has three horns. He's a freak!"

Hearing this, many audience members and the other participants finally saw Dusk for the shallow bully he was; booing him and throwing food at him. Celestia was especially disgusted by Dusk's shallowness. "You hate him because he looks and acts differently than you, and therefore you deem him unworthy to be a knight, or deserving of any chances of friendship!"

I overheard what Celestia had said, and walked back into the stadium. The entire crowd cheered at Celestia for reading Dusk out, and even more so when she used her magic to strip him of his armor. "You are a bully and a cheater, Dusk Shine! You are the one who is undeserving of knighthood!"

Dusk never felt so humiliated in his life, but he was escorted from the grounds by the guards, and as for me... I was declared the true champion, not just on technicality, but because it was strongly believed that I would have won fair and square had I not been drugged, and also for my integrity, good nature, my courage and bravery. I had struggled for so many years and finally earned the respects of many.

Celestia knighted me as Captain of the Guard and dubbed me her official right-wing.

After assuming my place as captain, I took my duty to heart and helped lead the army against any evil threats or invasions. I helped keep Equestria and the princess well protected. I often got to stand by her side too, but she preferred I call her by name and dispense with the formalities.

As time went by, the kingdom began to respect me being captain as much as the guards and Celestia did, and then one night, during a grand galloping gala ball, I was summoned before Celestia, because she had a gift for me as a reward for all my services, kindness, loyalty, and various other fields. She presented me with a red cape with golden sparkles. She had made it herself just for me to go with my golden, jewel encrusted armor. It suited me very well, and the whole kingdom agreed, but to me, it was the most wonderful gift I could ever receive.

I kissed Celestia’s hoof tenderly and asked “Oh, princess fair, may I have the pleasure of this dance?” She accepted, and I escorted her down to the ballroom floor, and everyone cleared the way to give us plenty of room. The music began to play, and as we danced beautifully, we began to sing special words to it-- words that expressed how much we meant to one another no matter what we looked like, what we wore, or what our places were…

She was wonderful to me, as I was to her.

(Celesto)

You are not your jewels. You are not your mane.
You are not the grace that others try to explain
Rich or even poor, it causes me no pain
You’re still simply magical, you.

(Celestia)

You could be a guard, be very brave and strong
But to see you as only those things then… I’d be wrong
The way you look all past it is how we got along
That's what made you magical, you!

(Both)

The riches, strengths, and power don’t make you who you are.
It’s the kindness and the caring feelings that will… take you far

(Celestia)

There are many ways that can change the way you feel.
Now I know that this feeling is real.

(Celesto)

That it’s not about the way you look.
It’s the things you say and do.

(Both)

That make you magical, you!

(Celesto)

I am not my horns, and I am not my wings

(Celestia)

And I am not my crown, cause’ in my heart… I’m many things

(Both)

So let us just both say, that we’ve never a care
About the way we look, and the things we wear

(Celesto)

It’s not being rich or strong.

(Celestia)

It’s the things you say and do.

(Both)

That make you magical…
That make you magical…
That make you magical, you!

As the song ended, I bowed to my princess and she curtsied to me, but we both became lost in each other’s eyes, and then, right in front of everyone in that ballroom we shared our very first kiss. Everyone cheered and applauded loud and wonderfully.

Though our love had become public knowledge, it did not affect our duties. I continued to remain as loyal and obedient and received no special treatments or things like that. Still, Celestia and I grew closer and closer to each other every day. She would invite me to have tea with her, and was her personal escort to every major event. We would share ideas, hopes, and dreams. Easily our favorite pastime was looking up at the stars and all the constellations, no matter where we went, we never denied the true feelings we had for one another.

Then one day, Celestia came to me and asked if I would consent to be her prince consort! “What…?!” I said unable to believe, “Marry?”

Celestia explained it was a marvelous idea and that I would make a wonderful prince and later king. This way all their dreams would come true and Equestria would become one of the most peaceful and prosperous realms in the known Dimensional Universe. “Celesto, I love you and you love me. What more could there possibly be needed? You’ve done so much for me and for Equestria, and I know that together you and can only do well for everyone.”

Absolutely nothing could make me want to refuse. She was also right in every detail, we loved each other, we wished only good for the kingdom. So I accepted her proposal.

We planned to announce our engagement at the next year’s ball, and all that time I spent making the rainbow rod, as a gift of affection to my fiancée. Though the scepter was but just an ordinary piece of gold with jewels, having made it myself meant that it was truly a gift from the heart, just as the red cape was a gift from Celestia’s heart to me.

On the eve of the ball when we were ready to announce the engagement and I was planning to present Celestia with the gift I had made for her, when the palace was attacked…

Celestia’s younger sister, Luna, jealous of her sister’s duty in raising the sun, and wishing to cast the kingdom into an eternal night. Overcome by resentment and bitterness, she had transformed into a demonic creature known as Nightmare Moon! Using her vile magic, Nightmare had created a small army of shadowy ponies called Shadowbolts to attack the palace.

The guards and I sprang into action. The fight was long and rough, and the evil ones were very tough, so tough that my guards could barely fend them off. Many of them were critically injured and bits of their blood had stained my armor as I tried to help them.

In the midst of the chaos, Celestia herself tried to join in the fight, but got hurt pretty badly, and a little of her blood splashed on me…!

“Celestia!” I cried, unable to believe what had just happened. It was at that moment that something inside of me sparked, and my three golden horns began to show off a force of unbelievable power, and using that great power, I blasted all the shadowbolts away just like that.

*POV Pause*

Lightning and Krysta sat and gazed in awe, “The uniforce.” Lightning croaked.

His master nodded “I had discovered the secret of the golden horns, and in time I learned much more. The uniforce is ultimate power of the rare golden horns. By using the uniforce a pony can increase its battle capabilities to beyond infinity!”

Lightning and Krysta were shocked and amazed. “Whoa! Infinite power!” cried Lightning. It was all starting to make some sense to him-- why everyone acted strange around him seeing him with a golden horn. “But how come I kept feeling so wiped out every time?” Lightning asked.

“The uniforce is very powerful, possibly one of the most powerful forces of magic in the all the universe, but it is also very dangerous and requires intensive training, concentration and mastering to control effectively. Until such requirements are met and fulfilled, the uniforce can only be used for an instant. It focuses all the energy of the pony in one concentrated burst.

...After I had used it on the shadowbolts it left me drained of all strength. I had nothing left to fight off what happened next.”

Lightning and Krysta felt chills run down their spines. "That explains why I got so tired every time I used it myself." Lightning said to himself.

*POV continued*

In my weakened condition, Nightmare Moon easily overpowered me and trapped me inside a large gem; hurling me up, up, up and straight out into dimensional-space, where she hoped I would perish!

The last thing I could see was Celestia reaching out to me and screaming in tears, “…NO!!”

I called to her, “CELESTIAAAAAAAAA…!!”

I soared higher and higher out into space, and because I had entered dimensional space with no pathway or proper protection, everythign flashed white around me-- I was instantly warped away to a random place passing out at the exact moment of teleportation, and everything went black!

When I came to, I found myself on the ground on a very distant, barren, and abysmal dimensional planet. It was almost as bad as the Dark Planet-- wastelands, empty fields, and nasty red skies. At least there was air I could breath, water suitable for drinking when filtered, and small trees that bared fruit, but still. I looked up at the night skies at all the stars…

...It was incredible; not one constellation I could recognize!

Where was Equestria? It was out there... somewhere! How would I ever find a teeny little speck in a galaxy this size; why I had no way of knowing back then if I even WAS in the same galaxy.

My heart began to break and I felt cold inside. I prayed and wished on every star I saw that this was all just a terrible nightmare and that I’d wake up from it soon… but it wasn’t.

I was a galactic castaway; perhaps forever!

Then, things went from bad, to worse...!

The area where I was sitting, the ground was unstable and sitting on gas-pockets. Powerful geysers fired all around me. I ran for my life, and just as I neared the end of the field, WHAMM! I was hit hard and sent sailing up, up, and over... landing hard onto a bed of jagged and sharp rocks!

I was such a mess! Several of my bones were broken! Several others dislocated! I was bleeding badly and the pain was unbearable! I could hardly breathe!

I knew that my body could never heal from this. My bones were so incredibly damaged that it would take more than a miracle if they would ever heal, and even if they would heal in time, I would ALWAYS be in immense pain.

With my life fading fast, and no hope of my body ever healing in it's current state, there was only one way I knew to save myself; I would have to reconstruct my body, give it a new shape! Be better than I was before!

Better...

Stronger...

...Faster!!

Using every last bit of powerful and complex magic I had learned and mastered, I performed the dangerous surgery and refitted my body both inside and out. I created more bones, tissue, vital organs and nerves connections that would help me heal and survive. The pain was so immense and the operation so complicated to do on my own that one false mistake would have surely finished me, but in the end it was all a success....

My body was now humanoid shaped. It took some time for me to get used to, but I soon discovered the incredibility of having this new body. I could grab things in my hands, instead of using my mouth, or using magic to levitate things. I could jump farther, reach up higher and in time I hoped to discover more.

(Skip to 2:17)

It was then I decided that if this planet was going to be my home, the least I would do was make it more pleasant. If I could fix my body, there was no telling what I couldn’t do without trying.

(2:27)

So, I took off... soaring higher and higher than I had ever soared before, high above the planet. Then, using my magic I began to fix up the planet. I made the forests, the mountains, the waters. I cleaned up the skies. I even learned how to raise the sun and the moon, and control night and day just like Celestia taught me. I even learned how to control the weather.

I had changed the planet into a world almost as identical to Equestria. Now I had plenty of food and water, beautiful landscapes and comfortable conditions to exist in!

...Except I was still lonesome and longed for companionship for there were no other creatures in this world with me. Not even a bird or a mosquito.

So I decided that I would have create terrestrial-life myself.

I was fortunate enough to have found a few threads of other ponies manes or tails stuck to my armor from the battle, Celestia’s was among them and the other were from the guards whenever I helped them up with they were down. There were also still a few small specks of blood still stained on my armor I hadn’t washed off. All this was exactly what I needed.

Using my magic, almost exactly how I remade my body, I combined the DNA samples and infusing them the very essences of elements, and my magic, and it worked-- Two creatures were born. Two baby humanoid alicorns, one male and one female. “Yes! YES!!” I cried for joy. I had created life!

I created the first 100 baby alicorns, which became the ancestry of our soon-to-be race. They were all I was able to create. I couldn’t create Earth Ponies, Pegasus, or normal Unicorns. No matter how hard I tried, the samples, and magic that I used were only able to create Alicorns.

Even still, I felt it wasn’t at all bad, for it meant that everyone would be the same. All would have horns, all would have wings. There would not be any real physical differences in creature type.

I took care of all one-hundred of the young ones like a proud father. I gave them food, shelter, and protected them with all my power.

As they grew older, I schooled them myself. We even learned to use proper words such as “Everyone” instead of “Every-pony” They also did not ever seem earn their cutie-mark’s either, and it was obviously because I myself still had no cutie mark, and it was my magic that had helped to originally create these ponies. That same magic prevented them from receiving cutie marks.

Still, the ponies did not mind one bit. Why would anyone want to let some picture on their flank tell them they were special, or good at something?

As the decades passed, my ponies grew into adulthood. Whole ancient cities and villages began to form, and those who found mates started families of their own-- when I created the ponies, I was very careful to make it so none were actually blood related, by using and manipulating DNA and blood samples that I used. Every single one of them was different. This was essential to avoid incest.

More ponies were born. Each and every one of them all looked up to me, and thanked me so graciously for giving them life, homes, education and protection. They were so grateful to me and all that had done and would continue for them... they had asked me to become their crowned leader. So I had assumed my rightful position as the leader of this new world, The Grand Ruler, the Tri-Horned Alicorn, and this world of ours became forever known as Unicornicopia.

As our kingdom grew larger, the ponies began to assume simple lives, and as Grand Ruler I did my best to maintain order and peace. However, I never wanted to be addressed by my real name, Celesto, again for all the bad memories it brought me, and remembered the evil Nightmare Moon had once ruined my entire life and taken away everything that was once important to me, and practically still was. That was when I began to detest evil, and I realized that if just that evil had cost me so much, what could other evil forces do to others? Other innocent creatures would probably suffer the same fate as mine, if not worse.

My alicorns understood my resentment to evil and began to share my view of things. Some wished to continue to live in peace with, while others decided to join me in my new quest to stand up against all evil.

So I and my new followers began train. I even learned how to master the uniforce, and learn more about it so using it would not exhaust me so much, and I could call upon it at will and even use it several times before feeling weak.

The rainbow rod, still in my possession, had become charged with incredible powers I learned and mastered, and I kept it always safe for such a time if it would it be needed.

My army continued to grow, and we discovered ways to become incredibly powerful; stronger and swifter even than any Equestrian pony ever was. We even began to develop weapons and technologies far more advanced as well to aid us and even help us advance our own civilization as well.

We all felt like star-class fighters and the way our armors would shine like the stars in the sky, and we all fought and could move swiftly like shooting stars. Hence we decided on our name “Starfleet!”

We soon got our chance to test our skills when the very first evil forces began to attack our world. We were so well trained and possessed such powers that the evils ones were easily defeated. Simple villains we would imprison until such a time, if any, they would be rehabilitated, redeemed. If not then we would keep them imprisoned for life. However, the really dangerous ones that wished no redemption, and were not possible to reform, we would have no choice but to destroy. This was a horrid move to make, and as much as we detested having to take lives of others, we had to face facts that if we didn’t, those creatures would continue to roam free and continue to hurt and destroy more and more.

Eventually we also discovered how to successfully traverse through space, and head off to other worlds. As my army grew larger over the past decade, we decided to send our many soldiers, as many as we could spare, to other worlds to establish outposts to protect the good life that resided there, maybe even find allies who would help us for our just cause, but only if they wished for it. In return we asked for provisions and things to add to our world, such as food, livestock and other animals to help provide for us and make our world more complete.

Even still, as I continued to maintain the balance and order of my kingdom, command Starfleet, and protect the civilians, I never forgot about Equestria. I would always take the time to search across the stars and hope that I would one day find Equestria or some hint of its location, but it was just no use. Finding one tiny speck in such vast universe-- looking for a needle in a haystack seemed easier and at least probable.

I began to lose hope of ever finding it, and my cape reminded me of my beloved Princess Celestia, nothing I would ever wish for apart from stopping all evil would be greater than to once again touch the flower that was her face and gaze into her eyes again.

I would always love her. Always!

*POV Ends*

Grand Ruler sighed heavily, and softly gripped the edge of his cape while gazing at the statue of Celestia.

Lightning was at a loss for worse, while Krysta blew her little nose with tiny hankie “That’s so beautiful and sad!” she sobbed.

“But Master…” Lightning asked “Now that you’ve found Equestria, why didn’t you go with Rhymey?”

His mentor shook his head “You don’t understand, Lightning. It isn’t that simple anymore. A-thousand years is a long time to be away, and I have changed ever so much."

He looked down at his hands, remembering how they were once hooves!

"So much has happened to me over the ages. I could never fit in Equestria now, not after all I've learned, all that I've done. I don't even know if Celestia is still alive, and even if she is, what then?

What would I say?

What would I do?"

He paused and sighed almost sadly "I really have nothing to expect by going back now, and besides, how could I just leave." he motioned at all around him "This... is my home. It's been my home longer than Equestria has. I can't just abandon my subjects, my soldiers, the vow that I made to fight evil and help those in need.

...Even if it means I may have to ultimatley give up all hope of ever seeing Equestria, and my dear Celestia ever again."

“Oh, Master!” sighed Lightning. He was still finding it all so hard to believe that creation of their planet, their race, and all of Starfleet had such a tragic and frightful beginning.

“You’re very brave and noble your majesty.” said Krysta.

Grand Ruler smiled “So are the two of you. Never stop remembering that, and remember: A true leader is not made by how strong, rich, or good looking he is... but by those who choose to follow him." he then gazed at the statue "...Or her."

Lightning gazed at the statue and wondered how Rhymey would be when he got to Equestria.

(Promo)

In our next episode, as the Equestrians prepare for Twilight’s coronation, Rhymey lands on their world in search of the star stone but ends up meeting a new friend, possibly even a budding romance in Fluttershy, but is confused for Fluttershy by many of her friends and even teased.

Meanwhile, the planet continues to be rocked by savage earthquakes, and the source of it reveals itself, Nightmare Moon teamed up by Titan’s minions invade Equestria full force.

How will Rhymey’s visit play out, and what will the fate of the ponies be after the invasion?

Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic!”

(Next Episode: “A Visit to Equestria!”)

Episode 20: A Visit to Equestria

EPISODE TWENTY

The creatures of the planet Equestria were still preparing for the coronation of Princess Twilight Sparkle, keeping well in mind that their magical world had recently been rocked by a series of savage earthquakes.

Little did they realize that in less than seventy-two desperate hours, a series of powerful energy forces would break up the planet’s core and disintegrate their magical world into galactic dust!

Still, the geologist ponies could find nothing all that strange with the earthquakes-- they could detect no imbalance of forces, no plates moving, nothing at all-- and merely dismissed that nothing was all that wrong and the quakes were done with, which meant no cancellation of the coronation, so the preparations continued for the grand event the next night.

For now, it was sundown of the night before the big day, and everyone was asked to do their part for the ball. Rainbow Dash was so psyched to be doing another sonic-boom, but Pinkie Pie couldn’t stop bouncing with glee. Rarity kept fainting in an overdramatic scene on her favorite cushion to be making new dresses and outfits for the grand night, preferably Twilight’s new royal garments. Applejack was just plain proud, and Fluttershy was just happy.

The friends all had a picnic-lunch one afternoon to discuss how things were coming along, but Twilight was very nervous. “I don’t think I can go through this.” she said for the millionth time, but her friends gave her their support. “Darling, you’ll be just fine.” said Rarity “Indecently, I will need you to model for me tonight so I may finish your princess robe, for when you march forth to greet your new subjects and they cheer for joy for you.”

Twilight gulped hard. “Oh, I’m sure you’ll be okay Twilight.” said Fluttershy “If it were me up there, I’d pass out for sure and maybe never wake up again.”

Rainbow Dash laughed at that “No, you’d probably do what you did before-- put on a disguise and pretend that you were some-pony else altogether.”

Fluttershy felt very embarrassed. It all happened during the last Grand Galloping Gala…

She saw a handsome stallion and developed a small crush on him, but she was too embarrassed to talk to him. Despite persuasions and support from her friends, Fluttershy felt so nervous that she slipped into the back, and changed her outfit so she’d seem like an upper-class, rich pony, and put on a whole act and approached the stallion. They shared a dance, but halfway through, Fluttershy’s disguise came off and she was so embarrassed that she ran out in tears.

Just then, Fluttershy felt embarrassed near tears again. The others were very annoyed with Rainbow Dash and scolded her for laughing. “Fluttershy was really scared, Rainbow. I don’t blame her for wantin’ to try that stunt.” said Applejack.

“Besides, I dress up lots of times.” said Pinkie, and just then she leapt over to the back of a tree, and then leapt from side to side changing outfits every second. Fluttershy still didn’t feel any less embarrassed. If anything, now she felt worried that ponies from all over would recognize her at the coronation ball and they’d laugh at her too.

“Don’t think like that.” Spike said “You’ve done so much to help out all over Equestria. Who would laugh at you?”

Twilight suddenly forgot about her own fears and lent Fluttershy a book from her bag. “Here, read this. It’s about how to overcome nerves and get over the fear of being embarrassed. I know I should be reading it, but I think you need it more than I do.”

Fluttershy didn’t feel so sure. “I don’t really want to bother; besides, what about your coronation?”

Twilight felt a little nervous again but admitted “I’m always going to be scared, no matter what, but with all my friends by my side… well… I’m just going to go through it!”

The others applauded her for her courage, and so Fluttershy got the book.

That night, Fluttershy was lying on the ground outside her house with her animal friends all around as she read from the book, but she still didn’t feel any better and began to feel it was hopeless again. “Oh, what am I going to do?” she cried “I want so badly to be there for Twilight when she’s crowned, but… oh!”

Her animal friends cuddled around her to show her she was special to them, and that made her smile, but she still wished she was like other ponies and could overcome her nerves. She gazed up at the starry sky, and made that same wish on every star hoping to boost her confidence.

Suddenly, she saw a glowing star that seemed to be moving across the sky. “What’s that?” she wondered, and the star began to glow brighter as it seemed to be heading right her way. Her animal friends felt scared and scattered to hide. “Wait for me!” she exclaimed as she jumped behind a shrub nearby.

It turned out that the glowing star was coming from the horn of a very strange pony-creature, one that Fluttershy had never seen before. He looked like an alicorn, yet his body was almost completely humanoid. He wore a powerful looking battle suit and a visor across his eyes. His mane was very short but the same color as his armor, and his coat was the exact same color as Fluttershy’s. He had no cutie mark, and there was a strange insignia on his armor, with a code beneath it.

Fluttershy gazed in such awe and curiosity that she just sat there with her face peeking through the bush. The alicorn creature landed in Fluttershy’s yard, and gazed at his new surroundings. Then he could see some of the animals and Fluttershy poking their heads through the shrub. He powered down his suit, and greeted the creatures by saluting tall and proud, and he spoke in rhyme to them.

“In friendship and goodwill I come.
Unicornicopia is where I’m from.

I seek a treasure for a power feeder.
Take me, strangers, to your leader.”

Fluttershy nervously came out from behind the shrubs, and the stranger gazed at her feeling very strange inside. He had never seen a pony so beautiful before, even if she was of an original, non-genetically altered, like him.

“Forgive if I stare, but in honesty
You seem pretty very and lovely.”

Fluttershy blushed, “Me… really…?” she asked still feeling a little timid. “Um… do you… well I… just want to know… do you always speak like that… in rhyme

“Yes I do… all the time.” rhymed the stranger.

“My name is X-L-7-Zee
But if you like, just call me Rhymey.
I’m pleased to greet you,
It’s nice to meet you.”

Fluttershy approached him and extended her hoof “Hi… I…I’m Fluttershy.”

Rhymey tenderly kissed her hoof, and Fluttershy’s face turned bright red. “Oh my…! Oh!” she was at a loss of what to say or do. Rhymey almost felt the same.

“There’s history right before my face.
I’ve met a new pony in Dimensional Space
And all because of my expedition,
To find the star stone is my mission.”

Fluttershy seemed curious. “You’re from outer space?” she asked “And…what’s a star stone?”

Rhymey nodded in answer to Fluttershy asking is he was from space, but as he tried to explain about the star stone, he let out a huge yawn.

“Sorry, if that yawn seemed deep,
but I am tired and feel I need sleep.
For I have come a long, long way,
…to visit your lovely world today.”

“Oh, you poor thing.” said Fluttershy. Seeing that Rhymey couldn’t possibly mean any harm, she wasted no time at inviting him into her place for the night. Rhymey didn’t want to impose and preferred to continue searching for the star stone, but Fluttershy insisted. “A good night’s rest will put you right, and then maybe I can help you find this… star… stone tomorrow.”

“The star stone’s around here, I’m not wrong.
I could trace its source, it was very strong.” said Rhymey, but Fluttershy didn’t want to hear too much more and insisted that he rest.

As they walked inside her house, Rhymey’s spotted a small shining object hanging over the fireplace. It was half the star stone that he had been looking for-- the yellow part. Rhymey gazed in awe as he dashed over to take it. “What are you doing…?” asked Fluttershy, but Rhymey held the stone and cried…

“My mission was fine,
The star stone is mine!”

Fluttershy was still confused about this whole star stone thing, but when Rhymey yawned again. Fluttershy wasted no time in guiding him to her guest bedroom. “Here you go.” she said “I hope you’ll be comfy.”

Angel and the other animals greatly gestured to the bed, agreeing with Fluttershy, and Rhymey felt he could trust them all. He was far too tired to travel the long distance home, and thought he ought to rest. Then maybe explore more of Equestria the next day before leaving.

Rhymey yawned as he climbed into bed, and he said…

“Thank you, you are very kind,
And right now, if you don’t mind.
I’ll count the stars, or maybe sheep,
And slowly… fall… fast… asleep.” Then he was sleeping very peacefully.

Fluttershy left him alone, and was still hardly able to believe this; a strange pony-like creature just dropped down from outer space and was now sleeping in her house. She felt she had to tell someone, and she got her chance when a knock at the door startled her. It was Applejack. “What up. Fluttershy?” she thought she’d come by with a basket of treats, she had been catering a lot for the ball, and wanted her and her friends to try some to see if they were good.

“Applejack, you won’t believe this!” squeaked Fluttershy, and she kept going off in so many sentences. “Whoa! Slow down at the pasture sugar cube. What’s got into you?”

“Oh, too bad Rhymey’s asleep.” peeped Fluttershy.

“Rhymey? Who’s Rhymey?”

Fluttershy tried to explain about the alien pony she had just met who had come from outer space, but Applejack just giggled and laughed “Fluttershy, stop it. You’re makin’ me laugh to hard.”

“No! It’s the truth.” cried Fluttershy, but Applejack didn’t believe her. She was never one to believe that there was life in dimensional space, and merely dismissed that she had been up too late and her mind was playing tricks on her because of the ball and her nerves about love life. “Look you just go catch some Z’s, and I’ll see ya tomorrow.” And she left still laughing, “Rhymey. Outer space…”

Fluttershy felt a little insulted, but then again wasn’t sure if she could blame Applejack. She didn’t actually see Rhymey. “Maybe tomorrow they’ll all get to meet him.” she said to herself “…And then they’ll see.”

In the gardens of Canterlot, near the hedge maze, the guards stood watch, when suddenly, from above in the starry skies, a pair of red and sinister looking eyes gazed down at the statues, preferably the one of Discord. They eyes glowed brighter, and the statue suddenly faded into thin air, but the guards didn’t notice a thing, and merely changed shifts insisting that all was well.

Discord suddenly awoke to realize he had been brought back to life and found he was floating in the void of dimensional space. “Where am I?” he wondered. “Ooh, but this sure looks like a lot of fun.”

That’s when two large red eyes appeared before him and he heard a dark and sinister voice call to him. “I have released you to do my bidding! I am your master now.”

Discord merely shrugged. “Oh, it’s one of those things is it? Well I hate to rain on your parade, whoever you are, but I’m free now, so I’m just going to enjoy it-- I’m going to make some little ponies suffer for putting me back in stone-- So, thanks and goodbye.”

“You will do as I say!” snarled the voice, and the two eyes glowed brightly and Discord soon found himself trapped in a powerful force-field, unable to move. “Hey! What is this?” he growled. He tried to use his own magic to dispel it, but his every attempt failed. The sinister voice laughed at him. “Fool! Your pitiful magic is no match for mine. In fact, your entire form is a disgrace.”

As if for the first time in a long time, Discord shook with fear. “What are you going to do to me?” he whimpered. The evil voice sniggered wickedly. “You will soon see!” and Discord screamed as he was engulfed by powerful magical rays. “What’s… happening…?! NO!!”

When the magic had faded, Discord felt completely different. He felt larger, stronger, and his voice was much deeper too. He laughed hard and evilly, “What is your wish, my master?” he asked. The evil voice behind the eyes only laughed again.

The next day, Rhymey awoke and thought he’d go and explore more of Equestria himself. Finding Fluttershy still asleep, he wrote a note…

“I have stepped out to explore,
To see many sights and more
I plan to come back, truly.

…With love from Rhymey.”

Fluttershy found the note when she woke up, and was regretful that she missed him, but she was beginning to become very charmed by Rhymey’s politeness and gentle words, especially the way he wrote “With love”

“What’s coming over me?” she wondered aloud. “I feel strange.”

Angel, however, had a pretty good idea what Fluttershy was feeling.

All over Equestria, everyone was busy preparing for the coronation, which was taking place that very night. Pinkie Pie just couldn’t keep herself calm. “It’s tonight! It’s really tonight!” she squeaked as she bounced about.

Twilight and Spike were outside preparing for their ride to the palace to prepare for the coronation. “That Pinkie, think she’ll ever calm down?” Spike asked. “Ah, let her.” said Twilight “I’m just impressed by this…” she referring to the giant carriage Princess Celestia had sent for her escort to Canterlot that night; a simple golden carriage big enough to hold at least four ponies. For now, it just stood where it was outside of Twilight’s place. The escort ponies hadn’t arrived yet.

“It really is a comfy car
For getting to places near and far” said a voice.

Twilight and Spike looked up and saw a strange humanoid-shaped alicorn creature standing on top of the carriage. Twilight and Spike saw the creature, and both of them were a wee bit shocked, but judging from the pony’s coat color, they both gazed at each other and immediately assumed it was Fluttershy, who to them hadn’t gotten over her nerves, and put on another disguise.

“Hi Fluttershy.” Twilight said “That’s a neat costume you have.”

“Where’d you get that weird armor anyway?” asked Spike.

The creature spoke almost severely back to him...

“This armor, sir, belongs to me.
Now, who might you two strangers be?”

Twilight giggled. “Strangers? Oh, come on, Fluttershy.”

Rhymey raised an eyebrow in confusion. They thought he was Fluttershy?

“X-L-7-Zee is my name.
Call me Rhymey, it’s all the same.”

Twilight and Spike, still not knowing the actual truth, were beginning to worry-- Maybe Fluttershy was more overcome with fear and timidity than they thought, but Twilight had read in the book she loaned Fluttershy, and Spike remembered, that the best thing to do was to humor Fluttershy with gentle humor, and hopefully she would snap out of the joke.

“Okay Rhymey. I’m Twilight Sparkle, and that’s Spike.”

“Oh, tell us, Rhymey, why are you here, and where did you come from?”

“Unicornicopia is where I am from
I’ve found the treasure for which I have come.” answered Rhymey.

“Oh they have treasures in Unicornicopia?” Spike asked teasingly “And they all are humanoid-ponies like you and wear outfits like yours?”

“Well can’t you hear?
It should be clear.”

Twilight and Spike began to take their teasing a little too far by saying things like “Let me guess, in Unicornicopia, everypony loves to dress up and pretend to be somepony else?” or even, “And they play jokes on each other all day back and forth.” Twilight and Spike laughed softly, but Rhymey was not amused, and he felt insulted.

“Honestly! This isn’t fair.
When did you two visit there?

The word is also not “somepony.”
The word is said as “somebody!”

“…Whatever you say.” Twilight said while laughing, and then she and Spike went off, but Rhymey regarded them both as very rude, but he decided to fly off and explore a bit more and maybe find friendlier ponies to interact with and learn more about the world around him.

Ponyville was really was a beautiful place. It reminded him of his hometown, Yellow Hills back home. Suddenly he stopped outside of a place called “Carousel Boutique” He gazed through the windows and saw all the beautiful outfits and attires on display. Of course they were outfitted for normal ponies, and not Rhymey’s shape, but he still found them all fascinating.

“There you are!” hollered a voice, which startled him. Rarity approached Rhymey, having earlier received word from Twilight about the situation, she decided to play along and help Fluttershy feel better.

Rhymey couldn't help but gawk in astonishment. This pony, whoever she was looked almost exactly like Starla Shine, only she had no wings, was not humanoid. Her mane was less voluminous, and her coat had a light hinted shade of gray.

“Fluttershy, I’m so glad I ran into you. I need you to come with me this moment.” and she just dragged Rhymey along with her inside.

“Just who are you?
What’re you gonna do?” Rhymey snapped at her.

Before he knew it, Rarity, still thinking he was Fluttershy, had him try on a new dress that was made specifically for Fluttershy in her new supposed costume, but Rhymey felt embarrassed and outraged, not to mention silly wearing a dress built for a normal pony instead of a humanoid figure, and angrily threw it off.

“Don't be so silly?!
I’m a stallion, not a filly!”

Rarity just continued to try and humor the supposed Fluttershy and said “No need to be embarrassed, darling. I’ve got others for you to try on. You will look so glamorous, you'll charm every stallion at the gala!” Then she ran off to get some more things which gave Rhymey the chance to run so he didn’t have to try the dress on.

“My goodness, who was she?
Why is everyone acting so crazy?”

He decided he had seen enough already, and wanted to head back to Fluttershy’s before someone else saw him and confused him for her, but that’s when he ran into Pinkie Pie dressed in an old Nightmare Night costume. She looked like a female pony-knight. “Hey! Fluttershy!” she squeaked. “I heard you were playing dress-up and thought we could put on a little show before the connotation tonight. I’ll be the mighty warrior knight and you can be my male sidekick, even though you’re not a male. EEE!! It’s going to be so exciting.”

Before Rhymey could protest, Pinkie had already gone into her role playing which really freaked him out, and he ran away before she noticed. “Fluttershy, where’d you go? Are you playing hide-and-seek instead?”

As Rhymey flew across the sky, he felt he was going crazy. At first he was so excited to be visiting a whole new planet of ponies, but now he almost regretted ever coming. He didn’t know if he could take anymore craziness.

“Yo’… Fluttershy.” called a voice. Rhymey looked round and saw a blue pegasi-- Rainbow Dash-- flying to catch up with him. “Fancy you a race to clear your head?” she said. Rhymey growled and quickly zoomed away with such incredible speed, Rainbow Dash was shocked and amazed. “Whoa! When did she ever learn to fly so fast?”

Rhymey flew so fast that he passed halfway across Equestria in mere seconds, and soared directly beneath Cloudsdale. The Wonderbolts patrol barely caught a glimpse of him, but the speedometer readings were off the charts. Whatever passed right by them was moving at a speed more than five times of their fastest flyers. Even Rainbow Dash could never speed like that.

Rhymey realized he had already lost sight of Rainbow Dash and decided to slow down, but he ended up landing in Sweet Apple Acres, right near Applejack and her wagon of apples, and she, too, confused him for Fluttershy. “Golly, Fluttershy. Take it easy there.” she said “I know you’re excited for the party and all, but…” before she could say anything else, Rhymey had fled. “Now what’s got into her mane?”

Rhymey finally made it back to Fluttershy’s, all in deter from his ordeals. “Oh my-- Rhymey, What happened to you?” cried Fluttershy.

“After what I’ve been through,
I’d rather be here with you.” he simply said.

Fluttershy and her animal friends soon had him sitting down and relaxing. Then Fluttershy fixed up a good lunch, and they talked about what happened. Fluttershy was slightly outraged to hear of how her friends treated Rhymey, thinking he was her, but then again it was slightly understandable. Rhymey didn’t care as much, as he didn’t feel like seeing the others again. For now he was just enjoying Fluttershy’s hospitality, and the good food she made.

“This food you’ve made is so delightful,
I think I’ll have another bite-full.”

Fluttershy felt flattered. “I always say, a good hearty meal always makes you happy and well.”

Though he had only known her a short time, Rhymey was starting to really like Fluttershy, and he asked her what Equestria was really like, apart from other ponies, and Fluttershy told him a lot-- about all the dangers she had faced with her friends, and the Elements of Harmony. She even explained how Twilight was going to be crowned as the new princess that very night. Rhymey found it all interesting, but he felt slightly uneasy about the way she described the enemies. To him, the enemies the Equestrians faced were nothing compared to what he and Starfleet had faced before!

“Um… if you don’t mind…” Fluttershy asked “Could you tell me all about your home? Unitopia… er… Unicornia… or…”

Rhymey cleared his throat…

“Unicornicopia is far away.
On the other side of the galaxy, I'd say.
It is far more advanced and functions differently.
And all us ponies humanoid, like me.”

Fluttershy felt amazed. “I wish I could see it.”

Rhymey then gazed at her and said,

“As I make my horn glow,
The magic will flow,
And images of my world I will show.”

Sure enough, as his horn glowed, he projected small images of Unicornicopia. Fluttershy was beyond words of astonishment-- Pony creatures dressed in clothes, no cutie marks, and doing chores by hand instead of magic or using their mouths, traveling through long tubes in the city, transistorized lights and other powerful inventions that weren’t found in Equestria. The most impressive she saw was of Starfleet. Through his rhymes, Rhymey explained about Starfleet, and his race: the Space Alicorns.

First, he explained that their powers were much stronger than that of any Equestrian. In fact, just one of their weakest fighters would easily be able to wipe the floor of an entire Equestrian army without much effort, but of course Starfleet was dedicated to fighting off evil forces; forces far more devious and formidable than anything Fluttershy had told him about. These evils were so powerful, Rhymey feared that if they were ever to come to Equestria, Fluttershy and her friends would never stand a chance. The battles were far beyond their experience, and not even the Elements of Harmony wouldn't be enough to do much of anything. Even Rhymey could barely stand up to them and survive.

Fluttershy didn’t know what to think, but the sight of all the enemies she saw in those images almost made her want to go hide under her bed.

Rhymey’s lips curled into a small sneer.

“Monsters like these make me sick.
So I joined Starfleet really quick.
For in my family there is but a tradition
At least one of us joins them every new generation.
The monsters, they hurt and destroy with no remorse.
So my friends and I fight them all of to stop them of course.
And to this day, I’m happy to say,
We’ll help maintain peace, and make all evil pay.”

Fluttershy kept gazing at the images, preferable the ones of Rhymey. He was so brave and handsome. She began to have that strange feeling inside her again. As for Rhymey, he really enjoyed telling her that story and he began to feel closer to Fluttershy now that he understood her way of life, but mostly because she was kind-hearted, had a gentle soul. Despite her timidity, all he could see what good things in her. They both soon found they were gazing into each other’s eyes, and both turned away with their cheeks blushing.

Rhymey’s shyness soon faded into sadness. “What’s wrong?” Fluttershy asked.

Rhymey sighed and said…

“I must return soon, as you know.”
I wish you could come with me when I go.”

Fluttershy heart began to race as if she had been proposed to. “Rhymey? You mean it?” Of course they both knew that wasn’t possible and very dangerous for Fluttershy, what with all the evil monsters always attacking. Plus, a normal pony like her wouldn’t really fit too well in his advanced society.

“Oh… Oh, dear, me!
If I made you upset, I’m sorry.”

“Oh, you didn’t upset me.” Fluttershy said, but she was feeling a little sad at the thought of saying goodbye to whom she considered a pony like no other she ever knew. “When do you have to leave?” she asked “Do you think maybe you’d have time to… well… if you could stay… would you… would you…” she hesitated “Would you dance with me at the coronation ball?”

Rhymey’s heart pounded like crazy, and he blushed and thought that would’ve been lovely, but alas, he didn’t have a ticket to the ball. Even so, he didn’t wish to actually be seen, not after everything he had been through already.

“But I suppose, just for a chance,
I will save you one little dance.”

Fluttershy smiled and thanked him while deeply thinking to herself “Oh, my goodness! I just asked out a stallion that I like.”

At the same time, Rhymey felt just as strange as he thought,

“I’ve never felt like this before.
It’s not just friendship, but something more.”

It was already late afternoon, and a lot of the ponies had gone home to have a long rest before the big event. Twilight and Spike were still laughing and they when they met up with most of the others about Fluttershy pretending to be a space pony, but their laughter soon faded into worry that Fluttershy still hadn’t snapped out of it yet. “Twilight, isn’t there anything you can do with magic?” Spike asked, but Twilight shook her head “You know just as well as I do, Spike. Fear isn’t something you can easily magic away.”

“Magic what away?” Fluttershy asked as she came up to her friends. The friends were glad to see she was back to normal and out of that supposed disguise.

“Hey there, sugar cube.” Applejack said “Not being Rhymey anymore?”

Fluttershy felt a little annoyed. “Rhymey’s not very happy with all of you for the way you treated him.” she said, but her sternness faded into soft happiness, “But he promised to share one dance with me before he leaves, and to think he actually wished I could go with him.”

The others felt slightly worried. According from what Twilight told them, the book mentioned even if Fluttershy seemed to be snapping out of it, it was best not to allow her to have a relapse of fear and shyness, or she’d probably go back to her supposed disguise, and it was best to continue to humor her.

“Well, Gee, Fluttershy.” Spike said teasingly. “We hope you two have fun.”

“Yep!” added Applejack “And if you do decide to go with him, send us postcard.”

Fluttershy’s anger began to show again, and she scoffed and galloped off.

“What just happened?” asked Pinkie. “Your guess is as good as mine.” said Rainbow. Twilight felt the most worried. She wanted Fluttershy to be there for her coronation, but not in some disguise or feeling angry at them. “Okay, everypony listen up.” she said “At least we know it was helping. So let’s keep up the humoring her and maybe she fully snap out of it tonight.”

The others agreed.

By sundown, many ponies and other creatures were headed for Canterlot. The royal palace was divinely decorated for what was sure to be the grandest event ever. The musicians were also tuning up, and even playing several songs they wished to play at the ball-- slow dancing songs.

Rhymey was standing up on a flat roof of the palace where no one, not even the royal guards could see him and kept well out of sight as he watched many ponies from all over come to the palace gates. Among them were Princess Cadance and Shining Armor from the Crystal Empire, but easily he gazed up at the tallest tower and saw two alicorn ponies, two princesses-- Celestia and Luna--, standing side-by-side and watching everyone coming. Celestia greatly reminded Rhymey of the Grand Ruler back home, she was very pretty too, and yet. She seemed a little sad.

He couldn’t hear them talking, but even where he stood he could read their lips…

“Sister, are you feeling alright?” asked Luna, but he sister didn’t answer and continued to gaze down at all the happy ponies below, preferably the couples, and even her niece Cadance with her husband, Shining Armor. All it brought to Celestia were bad memories of that horrible day.

After she banished her wicked sister to the moon, the royal guards who were sent to try and retrieve their captain had returned with grieving news. “Your majesty, it hurts us to say to you that we have called off the search for the captain. As of moments ago, he has disappeared beyond our world.

He is presumed to be…

...hopelessly lost in space.”

Now Celestia seemed so sad she looked as if she was going to cry. Luna understood why her sister was upset, and a look of regret appeared on her face. “Sister… I… I know it means naught now, but I am truly sorry.”

Celestia turned and smiled sadly at her “I know you are…” then she stared up into space “I just wish he was here with me now, or at least I could let him know I still love him.”

Luna decided to let her sister be to have a moment to herself before the presentation.

Rhymey didn’t know whom Celestia was missing so much, but he felt very sorry to see such a beautiful mare on the verge of tears. Still, now he had to wait for Fluttershy. She planned to meet him privately before meeting up with her friends for the coronation.

Suddenly, he could see her far below in the castle ground she was there in a green gown with a crown of flowers in her hair. She looked so incredibly stunning; the Rhymey almost lost his footing and fell off the roof.

Fluttershy was pacing back and forth nervously. “What do I do?” she cried “Rhymey’s expecting me!” She had to think fast, or else Rhymey would be gone soon and she wouldn’t be able to dance with him even if she wanted, but she just didn’t find the courage, but then one of the bunnies began to motion behind her. “What is it?” she asked. Then she heard someone clear their throat. It was Rhymey. Her heart was pounding wildly, and she felt so nervous she couldn’t even run.

Rhymey thought it was rather cute the way she acted shy but he said so sweetly…

“You look beautiful, Fluttershy.
The prettiest thing to grace eye.”

Fluttershy finally knew the feeling was real, and Rhymey felt the same. He softly tapped the insignia on his armor twice, and in a magic flash his outfit had changed into his formal uniform. Fluttershy thought he looked so handsome.

At that moment, the musicians were rehearsing another slow song, which they both could hear very clearly.

Rhymey extended his hand to Fluttershy. She hesitated, but then placed her hoof in his hand, and they two began to dance. While at the same time, Celestia was still on the terrace looking up at the stars, and she began to sing to the music.

How I miss you.
Looking out, wondering where you are.
Send my love, way out there so far.

I could never stop thinking…
even now, though you’re lost in space
Longing for the old feelings of love and grace

Praying now, wondering how,
Have you forgotten me.
Will you come back, and we’ll be happy as can be.

Oh, my heart is grieving.
I cry my tears, each and every day…
wishing you were here.
To the stars above
Is where I pray for you my love.
I do miss you so.

A single tear fell from her eye, but she knew she had to put her feelings aside and greet her subjects for the coronation.

While down below, as the song ended Fluttershy actually curtsied to Rhymey and he bowed to her and tenderly kissed her hoof again. The other animals applauded for them both. “That was wonderful.” said Fluttershy “Thank you, Rhymey.”

Rhymey smiled, but then he looked a little grim again.

“I enjoyed that very much.
I’ll always remember as such
But now afraid I must fly.
Fluttershy… this is goodbye.”

A sad expression appeared on Fluttershy’s face, but she knew this was the right thing to do. “I… I want to give you something before you go.” she said “Something, you know, to remember me by.”

“…A gift, for me?
What is it? Please hurry!”

Fluttershy searched through her gown, and realized she had left it the coach which she came in. She decided to run and get it, and then meet him on the roof of the castle. Then she dashed off.

Rhymey changed back into his normal uniform, at the same moment Twilight and friends arrive and all him standing alone, having missed Fluttershy and still thinking he was her in disguise again. Rhymey gave them all a stern look.

“Forgive me if I sneer,
But why are you all here?”

“Oh, nothing.” said Rainbow as she held in the urge to laugh along with some of the others.

“So, Fluttershy-- I mean, Rhymey.” Twilight asked teasingly “When do you share this big dance you promised?”

Rhymey refused to answer as he had had quite enough of their mocking him, and still thinking he was Fluttershy.

“This has gone on quite enough!
I’m going home before things get rough.”

“Oh! You mean back Unicornica?” teased Applejack “And you say you wanted to bring your-- I mean Fluttershy with you?”

“I think it sounds like fun. Can I come too?” added Pinkie.

“I’d love to accompany you.” teased Rarity. “Oh! Do tell when our departure time is?”

Rhymey clenched his fists and sneered,

“I’m opening the passage in just a minute,
But when I do, you won’t be in it!”

He stomped his foot angrily and began to fly up towards the roof.

“Oh? How come?” the others asked in a teasingly, and Rhymey called to them…

“First: You’re just too bad a-crowd,
And second: Only space alicorns allowed!”

The others watched until he was way up on the roof, and believed that Fluttershy would finally snap out of this little gag. “If that doesn’t help her, I don’t know what rightly will.” said Applejack. As they all headed into for the main gates, still laughing, Fluttershy came dashing forward, and almost ran right into Spike. “Oh! Sorry Spike, I just really have to go.” And she sprinted off.

“Okay, Fluttershy.” Spike called to her, but suddenly everyone stopped laughing “Wait a minute.” said Rainbow “How could Fluttershy have just run past us, when we just saw her fly up to the roof?”

There was only one explanation. “There really is a Rhymey!” cried Pinkie. The others couldn’t believe it. “A real space pony?!” cried Rarity overdramatically fainted again. Applejack remembered what Fluttershy had just told them that she had to go “Hey! You don’t suppose she’s really goin’ with him?!”

They all panicked and Twilight teleported everyone all up to the roof. Rhymey had already activated his return-spell, and they were just in time as he teleported in a big beam of light, up, up and off into the sky. They all assumed that Fluttershy had gone with him. “She was telling the truth all the time.” said Twilight. “And we didn’t believe her.” added Spike as tears came to his eyes.

“Fluttershy!” cried Pinkie, and she Rainbow and Applejack burst into tears hugging one another in woe.

“Oh, Fluttershy! What have we done?” cried Rarity. “We’ll never be able to apologize to you, or see your friendly face ever again.” she fell to the ground sobbing.

They all felt very sad, but Fluttershy came up to them. “It’s okay. I forgive all of you.” called a voice. “FLUTTERSHY!!” everyone exclaimed and ran over to group hug her. “I’d never leave all of you. I’d miss you all too much.” She then explained she was rushing to get a gift for Rhymey, which was one of her butterfly clips that sometimes wore on regular days, and he reciprocated by giving her one of his writing quills.

“I’m just glad I got to say goodbye.
He really was a special guy.”

Everyone then noticed she made a rhyme, but they all simply smiled as they continued to watch watching the sky until the beam of light was totally gone.

Rhymey soared the long way across the galaxy, and finally returned to Unicornicopia. Lightning, Krysta, and the Grand Ruler were pleased to see him, and that he recovered the held star stone they needed. They quickly rejoined it to its other half making the complete stone again. “Well done, Rhymey.” Grand Ruler said “Thanks to you we now have three star stones.”

Rhymey smiled.

“What was it like on Equestria?” asked Krysta. “Tell us.” added Lightning, and through his rhymes, Rhymey explained everything, including spotting the princess, Celestia, and how he heard her singing about a lost love of hers.

“It really is a lovely tale” but then he noticed,
“Your majesty, you look a little pale!”

Grand Ruler, with his back turned, said “I will be fine. If you will excuse me.” and then he walked slowly off. Rhymey was confused, but Krysta and Lightning knew what was up with him.

Grand Ruler had gone to his private sanctuary and sat down sadly while gazing at the statue of Princess Celestia. It was good to know that she was alive and she still loved him, but he still didn’t feel he could ever face her.

(Promo)

In our next episode, while celebrating Twilight’s coronation, Nightmare Moon and her new friends invade Equestria, but the ponies refuse to go down without a fight.

Meanwhile, the space alicorns have trouble of their own when Serpentari invades Unicornicopia, intent on stealing the star stones and destroying all the ponies.

What does Serpentari want with the star stones and will become of Equestria and its populace?

Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic!”

(Next Episode: “Part 1: Two-Way Invasion”)

Episode 21: Part 1: Two-Way Invasion

EPISODE TWENTY-ONE

The evil Serpentari knew that Starfleet now had three of the star stones she sought, and the only sure-fire way for her to get them now would be to invade Unicornicopia. “I will take the star stones and destroy the alicorns all at once.” she snarled. “Finally, I will be the deadliest being in the known universe, and no one will stand in my way again!”

Meanwhile, many dimensional light-years away on Equestria…

The coronation was a wonderful event, and Twilight was announced to the world as Princess Twilight Sparkle. One-by-one her friends congratulated her, and her brother, Shining Armor, seemed to be crying. Only he called it “Liquid pride” totally different thing.” Everyone chuckled at him. Nevertheless, everyone gave Twilight their best wishes and love and reflected on how far she had come. Celestia could have been more proud of her student.

The ball began and Twilight spent most of her time greeting and addressing her new subjects, which she promised to not treat any differently. “I am still your friend, and always will be.” She would repeatedly say, but she was most relieved to get a while to sit at the royal feast table with the other three princesses, her brother and friends for a much needed break.

She and many of the others wanted to hear all about Rhymey from Fluttershy, now that they knew the truth. “It’s incredible!” cried Cadance “A whole race of super-ponies from outer space!”

Fluttershy told them all everything that Rhymey showed and explained to her from the images she saw including the Grand Ruler. “He didn’t say what his name was, but I saw him in the images. He looked almost like you, your majesty she said to Celestia. “Did he really?” Celestia asked as she sipped her tea, and Fluttershy nodded “Yes, only he had golden wings and three gold horns.”

Celestia nearly choked on her tea in shock!

“Sister!” cried Luna.

“Princess, are you alright!” added Twilight.

Celestia coughed and gagged as she caught her breath. “Oh, your majesty, did I upset you?” cried Fluttershy. “No… no, I’m alright.” said Celestia “But… could you repeat what you said about what this Grand Ruler looked like please?”

When Fluttershy repeated “He had golden wings, and three golden horns.”

Celestia completely froze up in shock.

“Princess…? Princess…!” Twilight tried to snap her out of it, along with everyone else, but Celestia hardly moved... until the entire ballroom began to quiver violently in another savage earthquake. Every pony in the entire gala panicked as they stumbled all over the place in the stress, but this particular tremor was lasting far long than any of the recent ones. The windows were starting to shatter too. “What’s going on?!” cried Rarity.

That’s when the large doors at the entrance to the gala were blown to smithereens, and the shaking stopped. Celestia angrily stood up and demanded to know “Who dares to enter unannounced?”

That’s when three mysterious pony creatures entered. They were humanoid like Rhymey was, but they didn’t look a bit friendly. They were defiantly demoncorns, and looking for trouble. The royal guards came rushing in but didn’t attack without an order. Mysterious gazed around at all the ponies grinning wickedly. “Greetings Equestrians. We come to you in hostility. You will now surrender this entire world over to us!”

Celestia quickly shouted for the guards to attack, and even Shining Armor joined them, being their former captain. They all tried their best, but they were all beaten so easily and badly. Shining Armor tried to blast the evil ones with his magic, but Rep-Stallion used his scythe to bat the force and sent it right back at him.

POW!! Shining armor was hit hard and skidded across the floor. “Shining Armor!” cried Cadance as she raced over to her fallen husband. Twilight ran up to her brother “Are you okay?” she cried. “Twily… Cadance…” Shining Armor groaned “They’re… not ordinary! Be… careful!”

Cadance and Twilight glared angrily at the intruders. “How dare you hurt my brother!” snarled Twilight. Dementia gazed at her. “So, you’re the famous, Twilight Sparkle we’ve heard of. Huh! You don’t look like much to me. I could beat you with one little finger.”

Twilight’s anger was rising. “No! Twilight, don’t!” Cadance said. “I want to try something.”

She approached the demons. They glared and snarled at her. “What do you think you’re doing?” growled Rep-Stallion. “Please! I don’t want to have to fight you.” replied Cadance. “What, You don’t want to have to fight us?!” Dementia asked in disbelief, and then broke out laughing, but Cadance didn’t feel too discouraged. “I want to know-- who are you, and why have you come here?”

“As we have said, we have come to take over this world.” hissed Mysterious “It is what we demons exist for. We destroy, enslave, and conquer, and nothing more!”

Cadance shook her head in denial “No! I won’t believe that. Every creature that lives has a heart, and within that heart resides the motivation of actions. If I can connect to it, maybe there might be another way.”

Her horn let off a glow of light and she cast her magic on the three demons. “What is this?” asked Rep-Stallion. “Are we supposed to be scared?”

Cadance continued to pour her magic on the minions hoping it would reach their hearts, but suddenly the magic faded and nothing happened at all. Cadance went into near shock as she backed away in fear and disbelief.

“What? What’s wrong?” asked Twilight.

“I… I can’t feel anything. There’s nothing there. You have no hearts!”

“And YOU don’t have a brain!” growled Rep.

“We are not like you, and we don’t wish to be.” added Dementia.

“We were created from corpses and graveyard soils, and our loyalties rest with the darkness.” said Mysterious. “This is now our world, and what we say goes. Does anyone wish to defy us?”

“I do!” snarled Celestia. She stood tall and proud, her sister stood beside her and Twilight and her friends, with the Elements of Harmony on them, joined them with Cadance, but the minions were far from impressed, and Celestia narrowed her eyes “I will not let you invade our home world like this.”

The three princesses’ horns glowed brightly, and Twilight and her friends charged up the Elements of Harmony, and they fired with all their might. The powerful forces collided into the minions resulting in a big bright flash. Yet, when the lights faded and smoke cleared. The demons were still standing. “That had no effect on them!” cried Spike.

Even Celestia was surprised. “Even the Elements of Harmony combined with our alicorn magic isn’t enough?!” Twilight was shaking with fear. “I never thought something without a heart could exist. Let alone be so powerful.”

“You had better believe it!” called a sinister and familiar voice that made Princess Luna’s blood churn. “That voice! It can’t be…!”

The room went dark, and all the remained was a single dark glow of light high above the center of the hall illuminating the ringleader behind all this. “N-N-N-Nightmare Moon?!” peeped Fluttershy “Impossible!” added Celestia.

Nightmare sniggered and announced loudly “I have returned, stronger than ever before. I am SUPER Nightmare Moon, and I claim this magical world of Equestria as my own. From this point forth, you are my obedient slaves.”

To make her point clear, she zapped Twilight with a powerful magic blast, actually destroying her alicorn wings, changing her back to an ordinary unicorn, much to everyone’s horror. Nightmare laughed loudly as she created a vast armada of shadowbolts to aid her and her friends in their new empire. “This world is mine!”

Then she unleashed her forces on those below in the gala and knocking Celestia, Luna, and Twilight unconscious, and when the three of them awoke, they found themselves imprisoned within caves under Canterlot where Twilight found the real Princess Cadance when she unmasked Queen Chrysalis’ charade before the Royal Canterlot Wedding.

All three of them were trapped inside magical bubble-like force-fields with Nightmare Moon gazing at her from outside. Twilight and Celestia were astonished yet confused to see both Nightmare and Luna in the same room at the same time.

“If you are confused, here me out.” said Nightmare.

She explained that when Twilight and her friends used the Elements of Harmony on her, what really happened was the evil was actually separated from the good of Princess Luna. The two of them were split into two. The evil half part headed off into dimensional space with the intention of getting stronger, and then returning to Equestria for revenge!

“So you were causing those earthquakes.” said Luna. Nightmare nodded “A small testing of my new power. I have been reborn stronger and greater than ever before.”

She no longer required being part of Princess Luna and she no longer had plans to make an eternal night, but to turn Equestria into her own world of nightmares and chaos, and already the inhabitants of Equestria were conscripted into her army of slaves and prisoners. “I wish for the three of you to remain here to ensure you cannot interfere, as well as to witness what I am about to show you.” With her magic she showed them all images of the outside world and how it appeared now...

The skies were outlandishly red with dark clouds swirling. The royal palace was now Nightmare’s home base of operations, and worst of all, every pony, every creature in all of Equestria were bound by chains, and cursed with magical manacles that disabled any magic, flying, or super special abilities anyone had so they couldn’t even try to fight back. Every single one of them was forced into hard labour; digging trenches, carrying huge loads of heavy stones, water barrels, and other things. They were brutally forced to keep working by the minions and the shadowbolt armada.

Cadance and Shining Armor were forced into a march with Rep-Stallion pestering them. “Hup-two-three-four-- Come on, everybody. I CAN’T HEAR YOU!”

Cadance felt so exhausted that she collapsed. Shining Armor bent down to help his wife. “Well, well, a couple of slackers, huh?” hissed Dementia and she kicked them both hard and shouted “GET BACK TO WORK!”

Twilight felt a mixture of tears and fury. “You monster!” she growled and charged straight at the barrier only to be forced back by its powerful waves. “Twilight!” cried Celestia. Twilight wasn’t hurt, and Nightmare laughed “You are far more pathetic as I remember. My magic is far stronger now than it was. You can never overpower me. Especially seeing as I have these…!” She revealed she had confiscated the Elements of Harmony in a small chest and planned to hide them within her fortress so that they couldn’t be used against her. Even if they could, it wouldn’t be enough.

All three princesses felt their angers broiling, but the force-fields kept them all in. Even Celestia’s magic couldn’t break it and merely. “Weren’t you listening to what I just said…” sneered Nightmare. Her eyes glowed brightly and Celestia felt herself being lifted off the floor, and she was slammed down hard. “Sister!” cried Luna. “Princess!” cried Twilight. “A small sample of what is in store for all of you if I am further infuriated.” said Nightmare.

Celestia struggled to get back onto her feet. She glared angrily at Nightmare, “You won’t get away with this!” she scorned, but Nightmare merely sniggered and scoffed “I wish someone would write you a new line. That one is getting so tired.” Then she left the caves under tight guard so no one would try and sneak in to try and free the prisoners.

Twilight continuously struggled to try and break free. “I will not… let… this… happen!” she growled, but it was just no use. All three of them could only imagine the bad shape Equestria was in now, and what of all their friends?

Meanwhile, on Unicornicopia…

Lightning and friends now possessed the power of three star stones added to their own strengths, and combined with their training, they had never felt so strong before. Now, there was only one stone left to find, but Grand Ruler had sent Lightning a letter saying that he was unable to locate it, but he would continue to search. Lightning sighed heavily as he sipped his milkshake. Things had been very boring lately. Krysta had gone to visit her people on Luminous. None of his friends needed much help with their jobs that day, and he was longing for some excitement and action. Not that he actually wished the planet to be attacked or anything.

He decided maybe to just go for a walk, but when he grabbed his milkshake and turned to head off, he ran right into Starla and they both ended up spilling their milkshakes all over each other’s uniforms. “Oh, I’m sorry.” They both said at the same time. “No, I’m sorry.” they did it again. Then they paused and tried to wait, but they ended up saying “I’ll buy you another one.” At the same time too. They shared a soft giggle, and both paid for two extra milkshakes, and they both went for a walk together.

“So…” Lightning said.

“So, what?” Starla asked.

Lightning tried to be as careful as he could, “How’s your stargazing coming?”

“Oh, it’s been fine.”

They had a nice chat, and Starla explained about all the new sights she had seen since Equestria was located. She was, however, feeling a little worried. She had been gazing at the stars at night lately but couldn’t shake off a weird feeling that something dreadful was about to happen. “It seems every time we crush our evil enemies, a newer, greater evil arises.”

Lightning understood how she felt. “Don’t worry,” said Lightning “If something does come, I just know we can see it through. Think about it, we’ve faced so many things already. If anything comes our way, well ready with a bang!” That’s when a distant explosion was heard and felt, even from in the city. Starla and Lightning nearly fell of their feet with the quake. Smoke was coming from the direction of Greenland. Nobody panicked as it was only and obviously Professor Brain working on his most desperate secret projects of them all. He had been working on it for years and years, even prior to Lightning’s arrival, and every now and then a small explosion came from his house, but it was nothing to fret over. Just another one of his tests that he would mark as “Unsatisfactory-- Most unsatisfactory”

“That must be the hundredth time he’s done that.” groaned Lightning.

“I wonder what he’s making.” Said Starla, then she and Lightning realized they was still holding each other’s hand. Their eyes met, and again, they turned away from each other blushing and giggling softly. Lightning’s mind was racing in circles. If Krysta were there she’d be nagging at him to ask Starla to be his mare-friend. “Um… Starla…?”

“Yeah…?”

“I… I wanted to ask you something really important.”

Starla felt her eyes starting to twinkle for what she was hoping for. “What is it?”

Their eyes met again, and this time instead of turning away, they found their faces slowly move towards one another’s, getting closer, and closer, their eyes softly closed, their lips were about to touch, when the ground suddenly began to quake. “What?!” they both exclaimed. Something told them this wasn’t Brain’s doing as the ground continued to tremble “What’s happening?” cried Starla. “I don’t know, but I don’t like it!” said Lightning.

That’s when serpent soldiers burst through the ground armed with their weapons. The alarms went off and the civilians all began to run for shelter before the barriers were raised.

“What are they doing here?” asked Starla. “They’re causing trouble that’s what!” said Lightning. He gazed at her and they both nodded at one another, and quickly transformed. “Starfleet Magic!!”

“Let’s get them!” and they began to brawl!

Buddy Rose and Artie came running round the bend, and they were surprised!

“Serpent Soldiers…?”

“…On Unicornicopia?”

They joined the fight along with others, evening the fight out, but things got way worse as Serpentari entered the city from a portal in the skies. “Look out!” cried Lightning. Everyone scattered before they were crushed.

Serpentari roared loudly and she seemed ready for a big fight! Lightning gazed sternly at her and snarled “You’ve made a big mistake coming here!”

Serpentari didn’t answer at first and merely gazed around. “So… this is the planet that Titan had failed to conquer is it?” he sniggered “Well, it serves him right for all the horrible things he had done to me!”

The gang was confused. “How do you know of Titan?” Lightning asked “And what do you mean by what he did to you?”

“He and I went we way back, before he had failed to cure my mother on planet Elixis.”

The team remembered from Titan’s story, and managed to fit it all together. “Wait, are you… could you possibly be…?”

“Yes!” Serpentari snarled “I am all that remains of his former fiancée, Sari.”

She explained how, a-thousand years ago, she remembered when she and Titan used to be close, back when he was kind-hearted Titanius, but then he failed to cure her sick mother and she hated him and turned him down, and threw the acids at his face which horribly disfigured him. “First he failed to heal my mother, and if that weren’t bad enough, he returned to Elixis to destroy us all!” hissed Serpentari.

As much as the ponies didn’t approve of all that. “I don’t think I blame him, after the way all of you wronged him.” snarled Lightning. “He tried his best to help, and you all kicked him away, then you disfigure him!”

Serpentari was aware of this. “We begged him for forgiveness, and tried to apologize, but he would not accept! With malicious powers, he killed my entire family and proceeded to wipe out our entire civilization. Luckily, in my critically injured state, I managed to open a portal into space and escaped with my life.

I landed in a swampy wetland on the planet Bayou. There I struggled forth in search of aid, only to be bitten by a very rare and poisonous serpent! The pain and venom from its bite was so intense I couldn’t even scream. Suddenly, I felt myself beginning to change. I became the sinister creature you now see before you. I became Serpentari… a combination of “Serpent” and “Sari!”

The ponies began to feel that was rather tragic, but Serpentari the most outraged by it. She gazed down her scaly, slimy, wretched body, despising every inch of it. “My beauty was gone, and Titan had destroyed my home. The hatred boiled inside of me, and I decided to get revenge, and there was only one way that I knew how!”

At that instant, Serpentari’s forehead began to glow, and right there in the middle, appeared the fourth and final star stone-- half blue and half indigo. “So she had it all the time!” snapped Lightning.

Serpentari explained that after her mutation, she traveled all across space hoping to find Titan and make him pay for everything. She met up with him, and he did not know she was Sari. However, she proved to be no match against his super evil powers. She managed to escape before Titan had a chance to finish her off, and she then realized she would need a way to restore herself to her former self instead of being a slimy disgusting creature she despised, and gain the power she needed to crush Titan and anyone else who dared to get the way of her goal.

She found the star stone back on Bayou, where it all started. The stone empowered with strong magic and abilities to help her in her quest. She never had felt such incredible power before, and began her quest to find the other three stones. She searched and searched for centuries, and destroyed any planet she came to ensure the star stones would not accidently wind up in places she had already looked, including Lightning’s home world of Harmonious.

Lightning felt horrified and furious. “You killed innocent creatures, my entire populace included, whom had nothing to do with your problems, and laid waste to other worlds because you hated Titan and wanted to restore your beauty?!”

“You horrible monster!” growled Starla “Of all the monsters I’ve ever known, you’re by far the sickest of all!”

Serpentari felt her anger rising with all berating and insults being thrown at her. “I came for those three star stones you have, and I will take them after I’ve finished SMASHING YOU ALL APART!!”

“You will never win!” shouted Lightning “You are about to answer for all the lives you’ve taken, all the worlds you’ve destroyed.”

Serpentari laughed and scoffed “We shall see.” and with a loud roar, she began to dash forth leaving a trail of destruction through the road and the sidewalks. The gang flew straight up and dodged her. “We have to get her out of the city!” cried Buddy Rose “Who knows how much destruction she can cause.”

“Follow me!” cried Artie and the others began to fly after him and Serpentari gave chase, tearing up the roads and destroying many trees and unshielded obstacles in her way while hollering “You can’t escape from me!”

Along the way, Rhymey and the Spanish twins joined up with the gang, and they all stopped in the wide open fields where there was plenty of space to battle. “So, you’re all together now?” Serpentari hissed. “…Makes it all the more easier for me to get rid of you in one easy swoop. Then the star stones you have shall belong to me.”

The others all stood ready, weapons and all. This was going to be a battle to remember, especially for Lightning. “Mom, Dad, Grandfather…” he said in his thoughts and pictured the images of every other friend or loved one he knew and lost on his planet “…I’m fighting for all of you.”

While in Equestria…

The evil Super Nightmare Moon and Titan’s minions continued to rule in their new world of obedient slaves and power. They enjoyed pushing the ponies around and forcing them into more work, building towers, and monuments, and anything Nightmare and the minions demanded.

Twilight’s friends were forced into palace slavery in Nightmare’s new fortress where they were forced to do chores, serve her and the minions meals, fan them, just about every slave thing possible.

Rep-Stallion gazed at Fluttershy and how scared she seemed. He couldn’t resist and leaned in closer. “Hey little pony… Boo.” As expected, Fluttershy screamed in a cry of horror and she ran to hide behind all her friends, trembling like a frightened mouse. Nightmare and the minions laughed at the way Fluttershy and the others were cowering. “It feels wonderful to be queen.” Nightmare said “Slaves, fetch us more dark-leaf tea, and hurry!”

Spike and Rarity bowed and walked off to fetch the tea, but Spike grumbled insults under his little breath, which Nightmare could hear, and she levitated him off the ground right before her “What exactly where you saying…?” she asked with a deep sneer. “Who, me…? Oh, nothing, nothing at all… your grace…!”

“That’s what I thought.” said Nightmare “You know what fate lies in store for those who displease me, and she angrily flung him into Rarity knocking her down and shouted “…UNDERSTAND?!”

Spike got up and bowed nervously along with the other ponies, and they all got back to their chores. “Equestria is no more…” sneered Nightmare, “I hereby name this the planet of Nightmarica!”

Her wicked laughter got louder and louder, but suddenly the ground began to quake again, all over the planet. The slaves all felt it too, and some of the constructed monuments they made crumped under the stress.

The quaking stopped, and Dementia asked Nightmare “What was that for? I thought you were finished.” But Nightmare admitted that she didn’t cause that quake. “I… I don’t understand.” said Nightmare, she was however more outraged in the destruction of her monuments outside, and angrily order her slaves to reconstruct them, at the cost of three rest periods.

While they slaved away, others who were too young or too small for work or be of much use, were locked into prison, even the cutie mark crusaders, and the cake twins Pumpkin and Pound. The little babies were crying their heads off in fear, but at least their parents were with them, only because the guards couldn’t stand the babies crying. “Silence those foals!” Mysterious demanded. Carrot Cake scowled, but Cupcake warned him not to try anything and help her calm the babies down.

Sweetie Bell, Apple-Bloom were trying to be brave, but were very worried about their sisters, Applejack and Rarity, and all their other friends as well. Scootaloo couldn’t believe this was happening to the planet. All three of them felt like crying, but tried hard to hold it in so as not to disturb the guards and receive more lashes.

All hope seemed lost for them all now, however, one tiny creature, a fairy from Krysta’s home world was fortunate enough to move about without being seen or noticed, and witnessed the entire thing from the beginning. Not to mention the continuous earthquakes that seemed to be growing more and more savage. The planet couldn’t stand much more of the stress. “I must inform King and Queen at once. This is job for Starfleet.” She said and then she vanished through a portal.

With Equestria enslaved, and Serpentari ready to face Lightning and his friends, who knew how much worse things would get?!

To Be Continued…!

(Promo)

In our next episode, slavery continues to thrive in Equestria, but the earthquakes continue, and the planet begins to break up. Meanwhile, the space ponies continue to fight off Serpentari in what truly turns into an all-out brawl for power and vengeance.

Where will all the danger end, and how will it all be dealt with?

Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic!”

(Next Episode: “Part 2: Decisive Actions!”)

Episode 22: Part 2: Decisive Actions

“Previously on Starfleet Magic”

The evil Nightmare Moon teamed up with Titan’s minions and conquered Equestria with an iron fist. Try as they did, the ponies were easily overpowered and soon were forced into slavery and hard labour while the planet continues to get thrown about by more earthquakes. Meanwhile, Serpentari attacked Unicornicopia, revealing that she possessed the final star stone and intended to gather them all for herself, but not before doing away with Lightning and his friends for good!

EPISODE TWENTY-TWO

Twilight’s friends were still doing their menial chores around the fortress. Rarity was constantly whining about how ugly she looked dressed in rags, covered with soot and dust, and chained to an iron ball. “Eww, there’s dust in mane.” she cried for the umpteenth time. Applejack was very annoyed as she passed by with another heavy crate of apples “You got the easy bit!” she growled “I like cookin’ as much as the next, but this is worse than bittin’ an apple and findin’ half a worm in it.”

“SILENCE!” shouted Nightmare. Her eyes glowed and Applejack and Rarity were being shocked by their chains and manacles with powerful magic. “When working their duties, slaves are to be seen AND NOT HEARD!” Nightmare shouted. “Now get back to work!”

Then she summoned Pinkie Pie to sing for her, and Rainbow Dash to perform tricks for her as entertainment. Poor Pinkie was on the verge of tears and Rainbow felt her anger spiking, but there was nothing either of them could do while bound by the enchanted manacles.

Spike and Fluttershy were busy washing the windows and whispered to one another how much they hated this. “I wish I knew if Twilight was okay.” Spike said. Fluttershy said nothing for fear of being disciplined, but secretly thought of Rhymey and Starfleet and wished they could hear their calls for help.

While on Unicornicopia… Serpentari dashed forth, and the gang scattered out of her way. Starla and Rhymey tried their attacks for a test…

“STAR SHOWER”

“DRILL QUILL”

…but even with the power of three star stones, it still hardly did a thing.

Serpentari chuckled “My turn!” The star stone in her forehead glowed, “PLASMA VAPOUR!” she shouted and unleashed her power. Everyone dodged as the powerful energy zoomed right past them, leaving such a trail of burning destruction. The blast kept going and crashed right into a building that was shielded with a force field. The building didn’t get scratched, but the poor sheltered unicorns inside were shaken about and frightened.

“Stay focussed!” shouted Lightning. “We’ve got to try harder!”

The battle continued, and Dyno and Myte had an idea. They waited and watched as Serpentari’s mouth move as she roared and screeched. Then they fed her a taste of their, “BOOM-BOOM ROCKETS!” right through her mouth and into her stomach. The small explosions ruptured her insides, but she seemed to be more angry than damaged. “Fools, take this!” she shouted as she swung her huge tail hard knocking the twins up high into the air and away from each other.

“Dyno…!!”

“Myte… !!”

Serpentari laughed maliciously, but the others charged forth like a stampede, and launched many attacks at once and managed to actually put a big scratch on her scaly face. She roared and screeched in pain for a brief moment. “We got her!” cried Starla, and others began to cheer, but then they noticed the star stone glowing again, and her wounds seemed to heal instantly.

“Did you see--
It can’t be!” cried Rhymey.

With her wounds healed, Serpentari was madder than ever and decided to even up the fight. The stone glowed again as she summoned out her “SERPENT SOLDIERS!” one for each gang member to deal with. Lightning almost immediately realized why Serpentari would summon her minions when she didn’t really need them, but before he could warn his friends, “Let’s get them!” shouted Buddy Rose, and the others began to charge at the monsters. “No wait…!” cried Lightning, but his friends were already fighting the serpents.

Lightning also had a monster of his own to tend with, but rather than attack it, he just kept rolling, and dodging out of its way as it came at him, but the others were already using a lot of their powers and strength, much to Serpentari’s amusement and her plan-- to let them tire themselves out so they’d have nothing left to fight her-- but Lightning wasn’t about to let this happen, and he thought of something. “It’s risky but I’ve got to do it” he said to himself, and he summoned the rainbow rod, and told the others to quickly gather all the soldiers into one place. It wasn’t easy, but they managed to do it. “Do it, Lightning!” cried Artie!

Lightning powered the Rainbow Rod, recited the chant, and unleashed the “SPECTRUCM STREAM!” Wiping out all the serpents at once, but after using that much power at once, he felt a little tired and fell to his knees.

“Lightning!” Starla cried as she ran over to help him up “Are you okay?”

“I’ll be fine.” panted Lightning as he stood. They dashed over to join the others, and Serpentari hissed, “My patience is wearing thin. I give you this last chance-- Hand over the star stones you possess!”

“Never!” shouted Lightning “You should hand over the one you have and make it easier on yourself.”

Serpentari roared angrily and began to charge again. “PLASMA VAPOUR!” and she launched another stream of power. The others scattered around, but poor Starla was barely able to get all the way aside as she felt her right leg getting hurt by the burning of being so close to the blast. “Ow! Uhn…!” she groaned as the trail sped past her and blew up a set of trees.

Poor Starla fell to the ground shaking in pain, “My… my leg!” she cried softly, and she did look hurt. Her boot had been completely burned off, and her leg look badly burnt and bruised. Lightning felt his anger beginning to spike. “Starla!” he roared, and then he roared angrily and charged at Serpentari feeling the burning rushing through him, “Easy pickings.” hissed Serpentari and she swung her tail and bashed him really, really hard!

“LIGHTNING!!” the others shouted.

Lightning felt as if the moon had fallen on him. His mane and tail were all ruffled and tangled, and his armor never had a bigger dent in it. Serpentari just laughed, and then gazed at the others. “Now, isn’t this a shame. The almighty Starfleet has always triumphed over many kinds of evil, only to be brought down now after all this time.”

The others were so upset and worried that they didn’t know what to do as if for the first time. Not a single one of their attacks worked, and even they did manage to damage her, the star stone in her head would heal her. All seemed pretty much hopeless!

Serpentari then prepared herself for the kill. “Oh, how I’m going to enjoy this.” She was ready to blast Starla and Lightning to dust. “NO!!” the others cried, but suddenly, Serpentari began to feel strange as if she couldn’t move. “What… what is this!” she growled “My powers… they are getting… weak!”

The star stone in her head began pulsating like crazy, and then it popped right out. “No! NO!!” Everyone watched as the stone began to float through the air and join with the other four around, “Grand Ruler!” cried Lightning. His master smiled and nodded. Then he said “Sometimes, even the best of warriors need help, but even so evil will never triumph over good.” He then used the magic of his horns to charge the four star stones which made them give a powerful glow and shot rays of light straight at Lightning, Starla, and all their friends! All of them felt very strange. “What is this?” asked Buddy Rose.

“I’ve never felt so strong before.” said Artie.

Rhymey clenched his fists and flexed his muscles.

“This is so neat.
Now we won’t be beat!”

Dyno and Myte felt like they could blow up a mountain themselves, and not with any explosives but just using their brute strengths. Starla and Lightning both stood up, with their injuries fully healed, and Starla had her boot back. Grand Ruler explained that, just as he had promised, “You all found the star stones. You overcame many hardships and battled countless foes and all because you never gave up hope and continued to believe. Now as promised, their great power will bring you victory. Use it well.”

“No!” growled Serpentari “The power is mine! I must have it!” Even with her powers severely weakened, she still was not willing to let what she had come so close to obtaining slip away now. “I WILL CRUSH YOU ALL!!” She charged forward ready to crush them all like insects. “Not if we can help it!” snarled Lightning “Ready, guys?”

His friends all nodded, and they all charged forth, punching and kicking and bashing the evil demon many times, damaging her hard. “You will pay! You will all pay!” she shouted.

“Oh yeah, how about this?” snarled Buddy Rose, and gripping his whip tightly, he unleashed his biggest and deadliest finisher attack ever. “WHIPLASH STRIKE” Serpentari was thrashed at so hard, the scales on her skin got split!

“Our turn.” said Artie as he held his staff.

“Now she shall learn!” rhymed Rhymey holding his sword up high.

“SUPER STAFF-SPIN”

“THRASH SLASH”

They both leapt forth and slashed and bashed at the evil demon, harming her further. Then Starla and the Twins

“GALACTIC PROJECTILE”

“BOOM-BOOM FLARE”

The evil demon looked badly beaten and charred. Then everyone gazed at Lightning. “She’s all yours amigo.” said Dyno. “Do it for your family.” added Myte.

Lightning smiled bravely and thankfully at his friends, and then stepped forth towards the cringing demon. His golden horn and the rainbow rod both began glowing wildly and ready for the final blow. He no longer required as much concentration as before and in fact was ready to try something he never had before.

Serpentari growled angrily “If I go down, at least you will go with me!” and she began to charge forth to crush him, but she suddenly was halted in her tracks as Grand Ruler used his magic to hold her in place. Lightning gazed at him, and his mentor smiled proudly and nodded for him to go ahead. Lightning smiled and then turned to face his enemy.

“Serpentari, you killed my parents...” he blasted her once! “You’ve destroyed countless worlds for your own wicked desires…” he blasted her again “And you have demonstrated nothing but pure evil!” he blasted her a third time. Serpentari was shrouded in powerful shocking waves of magic that were harming her severely.

Lightning then leapt up high enveloped in glowing light. “…And now, may all the innocence you have destroyed be avenged!” shouted Lightning His horn and the rainbow rod both glowed and sparkled like crazy. “No! You can’t do this to me!” shouted Serpentari.

“I can and I will!” shouted Lightning as he charged rainbow force with the uniforce together, at the same time without even shouting out their names or reciting the chants. The two forces collided into Serpentari. The beast roared and screeched endlessly as her body began to vaporize into complete and total nothingness. The light was almost too blinding for everyone to look at and they shielded their eyes.

Then, she was gone! Completely, totally gone!

Lightning just stood there, feeling pretty tired, but not too exhausted, also amazed from what he had just done. “Mom… Dad… Grandfather… and all those of Harmonious.” He said deeply in thought “It’s over. I’ve won your revenge. You spirits can be at peace now.”

Grand Ruler approached him and smiled proudly at his student. “You have begun mastered the uniforce, much sooner than I ever had myself. You have done us all proud today Lightning Dawn.”

Lightning smiled and bowed to his teacher, and Grand Ruler commended everyone for their efforts. They truly were now some of the best fighters on all of Starfleet.

“But really, Master…” Lightning said “If you hadn’t shown up with the star stones then who knows what would’ve happened?” His mentor was aware of that, but he could only repeat what he said about event he greatest of warriors need help sometimes. “I myself have needed help many times before, just like you and your friends, but helping each other and working together is what makes Starfleet a team, and very powerful and formidable force to be reckoned with.”

The team agreed and bowed to him, but the moment was suddenly interrupted when a small portal appeared and out came Krysta and her husband King Topaz crying. “Lightning, thank goodness you’re here.” Krysta said in near panic.

“What’s wrong?” asked Lightning.

King Topaz explained “Only moments ago we had just received word from one of our messengers of extreme danger occurring on Equestria.”

“Equestria…?!” Grand Ruler gasped.

Rhymey felt uneasy too when he heard the world “Danger” and he worried about Fluttershy.

“Tell us now!
How bad is it-- How…?”

Krysta could only explain that it was far worse than just bad.

Equestria was rocked by another savage earthquake, spoiling all the hard work the slaves had done, forcing Nightmare Moon to angrily force them back to work once more.

From their prison in the caverns Twilight, Celestia and Luna could hear all the chaos and agonizing cries of the poor creatures being tormented. Luna felt ever so depressed. “I fear this is all my doing. I originally created Nightmare Moon. The fault is mine.”

“No, Princess-- Don’t think that.” said Twilight. “We all were just as surprised by her appearance, and had no way of knowing, and now you’re in just as much danger as the rest of us.” added Celestia. Luna couldn’t understand how her sister and her student could act so calm at a time like this.

Celestia hated to admit it, but she was deathly afraid, and for the first time in a very, very long time too. Twilight was just as frightened. They were powerless to escape from their prison, they were worried sick about all their friends, and most of all they didn’t like all the constant tremors began to fear for their planet.

Celestia closed her eyes tightly and prayed for a miracle. Her prayers were almost immediately answered when the guards were watching them suddenly vanished through small portals that appeared, that’s when a small fairy, Krysta, and several others came in through a second portal. “Who are you?” Twilight asked. “No time to explain.” said Krysta, and she and her warping fairies used their warping spells to weaken the bubble prisons holding the three ponies just enough so they could slip out. “How can we ever repay you?” asked Celestia.

The fairies gazed at one another and explained of what they wanted them all to do.

Nightmare was finally merciful enough to give Twilight’s friends a rest period, but not a very long one, and threw them into another dungeon within the fortress. The single cell was cold and dank, and there was hardly any place to sleep, but Twilight’s friends were so sore and tired from all their chores, they almost didn’t care to just collapse in any place.

Spike was still very worried about Twilight, so much that a little tear escaped from his eye. “Are you okay, Spike?” asked Fluttershy. “Of course he’s not okay.” said Rainbow “Do you think any of us are?” Everyone was worried about the kingdom, the princesses, and Twilight, and they began to fear as if they were never going to know peace and harmony again with the way things were going.

Then, suddenly, they all heard a little sound going “Pssst” they all looked up and saw a fairy, Krysta, at the cell window. She explained, in a very soft tone so she would not be overheard, that the princesses and Twilight were fine and safe with them now and that they would be away for a short while, but she promised they would see them again soon. “Don’t worry, everything will be all right soon.” Then she vanished out of sight.

The ponies felt so relieved, and Spike wiped the tears from his eyes. Twilight was safe now, at least that was over, but he and the others hoped that fairy meant what she said about everything being fine soon. For now, all they could do was try to keep strong, and play it cool.

While out in the void of dimensional space, that sinister voice behind the glowing red eyes hissed. “The time has come. Are you ready my friend?” The shadowy image of whatever Discord was now extended his large wings and claws. “…I am, master.” he said deeply. “The space ponies will be destroyed as per your wishes.”

He and his master, whoever he was, shared a sinister laugh while gazing at Unicornicopia off in the vast distance.

To Be Continued…!

(Promo)

In our next episode, it’s happy reunion for Celestia and Grand Ruler as the three ponies come to Unicornicopia for safety, but it is also discovered that Equestria is on the verge of destruction, and in order to save everyone on it, Nightmare Moon must be overthrown. Titan’s minions also decide to return for one last stab at their enemies with their special gifts from Nightmare Moon.

What will our heroes decide to do, and what will the Equestrian’s think of Unicornicopia?

Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic!”

(Next Episode: “Part 3: Reunions and Unions”)

Episode 23: Part 3: Reunions & Unions

“Previously on Starfleet Magic”

The battle against Serpentari seemed rather one sided. Try as they may, the space ponies couldn’t seem to stand up to her, until the Grand Ruler arrived to aid them. Utilizing the power of the four star stones, the tables had turned on Serpentari, and Lightning unleashed a most powerful attack ever vaporizing the vile demon in dust and winning his well-earned revenge for his people. However, the fairies had informed them all of the dangers still occurring on Equestria forcing them all to make new plans.

EPISODE TWENTY-THREE

Titan’s minions had been really enjoying themselves ever since they had teamed up with Nightmare and enslaved Equestria turning it into Nightmarica! Now, they felt they were ready to pick up where they had left off and take the fight back to Starfleet. Nightmare graciously allowed them to have their fun and crush their own enemies. So the minions went off, and this time they promised not to leave until Unicornicopia was blown to dust!

Meanwhile, the gang was at Grand Ruler’s sky palace, eagerly awaiting the arrival of their guests. Princesses Celestia, Luna and Twilight Sparkle were on their way with Krysta’s gang. A royal red carpet was placed along the way from the portal gate and the guards were standing at the ends and in the patterns of male and female, side-by-side while Captain Shaina inspected them. “Humph! Assemble yourselves properly.” She scolded “After all, this is a royal greeting.” The guards saluted and stood tall and proud, holding their lances up high.

Cookie Dough had been summoned to the castle and was busy preparing a meal under The Grand Ruler’s orders. The guests were bound to be famished after being locked up for some time with harshness and neglect, and after their long inter-dimensional journey across the galaxy.

Professor Brain was requested to be present too. This was a dream come true to be able to meet pony creatures from another world. “I must say I find this to be most exciting. I only wish the circumstances were a little more… eh… erm… pleasant, as it were.”

“Once they’ve arrived, we might be able to devise a way to help them and their planet.” said Buddy Rose.

“I tell you.” said Artie “From what Krysta said… that Super Nightmare Moon surely lives up to her name!”

Rhymey was easily the most worried. He had only recently just visited Equestria and it all seemed so beautiful and tranquil before he left. He gazed down at the butterfly clip that Fluttershy gave to him and remembered the dance they shared.

“Hear what I say,
Please be okay.” he said softly to himself.

Starla noticed how bad Rhymey felt. She could see he really liked Fluttershy. “I feel really bad for her and all her friends.” she said. “Not to mention all those bad earthquakes.” said Dyno. Both he and his brother were given reports by Krysta’s messenger who saw the whole mess, and they being expert geologists were tasked with calculating just how serious the earthquakes were. “I don’t hold up too much hope though.” said Myte “We’ll have to feed through the master computers for an absolute final confirmation.”

Lightning came downstairs from seeing Grand Ruler. “How is his majesty.” asked Starla.

Lightning’s expression already told her and the others that his majesty had practically gone all to pieces! “I’ve never seen him so edgy before.” Lightning said “Personally I can’t blame him.”

Grand Ruler had told the others the same story he told Lightning and Krysta in his private room, feeling the situation called for it. Everyone was astonished to learn of their histories and origin, but especially happy to learn about Celestia and he being lovers and about to be reunited after over a millennium, neither having seen nor spoken to one another in all that time.

Soon, the portal began to shimmer, indicating the arrivals were coming.

“Lancers, Aten-tion!” said Shaina. The guards all stood stiff and tall as Krysta and her fairies were first to emerge from the portal, and that’s when the royal musicians sounded their horns, and Krysta thought it not too impolite to make the announcement “Their royal highnesses…! Princess Celestia and Princess Luna! Rulers of Equestria, and apprentice pony, Princess Twilight Sparkle.”

“Look sharp guys, here they come.” said Lightning, and his friends all stood with him at the end of the red carpet.

The portal glowed again as the three ponies emerged. The gang stared in awe at the sight and mystical grace of the two princesses, especially Celestia. She was just as beautiful as Grand Ruler had described. No wonder he was in love with her.

Twilight walked in between the princesses as they all gracefully walked along the carpet, and each of the guards tipped their lances as they passed as form of greeting. The guests nodded to each and every one of them, and were surprised that some of the guards were female, especially Captain Shaina.

They made their way into the end of the carpet where Lightning and friends stood. Lightning approached and bowed to them all. “I am Lightning Dawn" Personal and private apprentice to the Grand Ruler. On behalf of his royal majesty and all of us here… Welcome to Unicornicopia.”

The princesses and Twilight bowed. Twilight felt honored and excited to be in such a place, and just then the royal fanfare sounded again, and two guards at the throne announce the entrance of “His royal majesty, ruler of Unicornicopia, and commander of Starfleet... The Grand Ruler!”

A beam of golden light shone down from the ceiling, everyone gazed up and there he was, slowly descending to the floor. Twilight could hardly believe her eyes-- an alicorn with three horns just as Fluttershy told her!

Celestia, however, she had almost forgotten how to blink her eyes, or even breathe. Even though his body wasn’t as she remembered, she recognized him anywhere!

He landed softly on the floor, the light faded, and as he stepped forth their eyes met. The others all bowed, but Celestia and Grand Ruler kept gazing at each other so deeply, they felt their souls being pierced. The cape she had made him that he was wearing softly fluttered, just like her long and beautiful mane and tail. They both continued to gaze at one another as he continued to move forward and stopped at the last ten feet. “Um… Greetings… Celestia.” he finally said.

Celestia’s heart began to race for the first time in ages. Tears began to fall from her eyes. “Celesto...!” she peeped. Even though this was a royal gathering, and what she was about to do was considered rather improper. She couldn’t help it. “…Celesto! Oh, my love...!” she dashed right over to him,

"Celestia!!" Grand Ruler cried, and he ran to her, both of them colliding in a deep embrace.

Celestia began to weep “I… thought you were gone forever! I thought I would never see you again.” Tears rolled down Grand Ruler’s cheek, “You have no idea how much I've missed you!.” he whispered to her as he embraced the lovely feeling of having her near him again.

Twilight felt like crying. Now she understood why the princess acted strange before at the ball.

Lightning smiled. Starla and Krysta each wiped a tear from their eyes, and the twins, they were blubbering and hugging each other like the brothers they were. “Ay’ Ay’ Ay’! It’s so beautiful!” they cried. Two lost lovers reunited after being apart for so long.

The two lovers separated at last, getting a hold of themselves and tyring to be professional.

Grand Ruler could see Princess Luna behind Celestia. Luna seemed very nervous, and she had every right to be as he approached her looking rather cross. He looked rather cross with her, and she bowed her head in shame, but to her surprise he politely said “I welcome you as well, Princess Luna.”

Luna looked up and smiled, and then they both bowed to each other, and then Twilight had her greetings.

Soon, they were all seated in the great hall and enjoying the meal Cookie Dough had made. They all thought it was delicious, especially the guests. Cookie Dough was flattered, but this was no time for pleasantries.

All through the meal things were discussed about Nightmare and Titan’s minions. “All the enemies I’ve ever known seem like toys compared to these.” she said.

“Now, you really know what we’re up against.” Lightning said “The way I see it, we’re all going to have to work together on this one.”

“Agreed…” Celestia and Grand Ruler said at the same time. They both gazed at each other, and smiled softly. Grand Ruler then cleared his throat and said. “From what we have heard, Nightmare Moon has created an enormous fleet of shadowbolts.”

“Yes.” said Luna “Consisting of more than nine-million, eight-hundred-thousand super charged shadowbolts, with a destructive force of a large nova!”

“That’s insane!” snapped Buddy Rose “A fleet of almost ten-million?! There’s no way we can fight them all off. We’d be spotted before we even had a chance!”

“And what about the earthquakes?” asked Artie, and he gazed over a Twilight “You said Nightmare Moon was the original source of them?”

Twilight nodded “She hasn’t created a single one since she assumed power over equestria, but everything keeps shaking. Each quake is more violent than the last, and she didn’t do it.”

The Spanish twins felt nervous . “Esto es malo *This is bad*. I don’t like it one bit.” said Dyno, and Myte agreed “Forcing the planet to quake like that with magic-- it could get really serious.”

The three princesses shuddered with worry at the mention of that. “What will happen to Equestria?” Celestia asked aloud. She was about to get her answer when Professor Brain came back from the main control room with the final analysis of the earthquakes on Equestria. “Give it to us straight, Professor.” said Grand Ruler

“Oh, dear… It dreads me to say this to all of you, but I am afraid the condition is far worse than we thought.” said Brain.

“How bad is it?” Celestia asked.

“According these calculations, I am afraid Nightmare Moon’s magic has put the planet on a loop of chain-reactions. The crust is weakening, the mantle is bursting wide open, and the magical core of the planet is horribly unstable and overloading. In a matter of hours the world of Equetsria will cease to exist!

...It shall disintegrate into cosmic dust!”

The three princesses gasped in horror along with all the others.

“Isn’t there anything can do
to stop the planet from blowing through?” asked Rhymey

Grand Ruler shook his head “It is far too late for that now, Rhymey. Perhaps if she were caught sooner there may have been a chance, but I'm afraid the damage totally irreparable. Even trying to use magic to fix the planet now would only destroy it faster."

Lightning clenched his fists in extreme concern. "That means Nightmare has set off a destructive process that can't be stopped. There's nothing we can do to stop the planet from blowing!"

The princesses began to slump down in shame, fear and woe, but Grand Ruler stood and assured them “There is still, however, something we can do to save everyone.”

“There is?” Twilight asked with anxiety "What is it? Tell me, please!"

"It's quite simple. We cannot stop the planet from exploding, so... we'll just have to get everyone off the planet before it does."

The space ponies caught on to what the plan was.

"But exactly where would we all migrate too?" asked Luna.

Grand Ruler explained...

"Centuries ago, Starfleet discovered a planet, uninhabited yet suitable to support life. Starfleet had cultivated that world, and turned it into a safe refuge, and they called that planet Sharma. Starfleet used it as a safe haven to evacuate those on a planet in extreme grave peril, to preserve the life forms in the events their home worlds would be destroyed, or became uninhabitable, and to then help them rebuild their lives or start over again by fixing up or finding new worlds for them to live."

The plan was to evacuate everyone on Equestria-- every pony, animal and other moving creature-- and transport them all to Sharma to keep them all safe until the crisis had passed.

“But to do that, we will have to get through Nightmare Moon and her forces.” said Grand Ruler “That won’t be easy, but if we can hold her back just enough, we might be able to give everyone the chance they need.”

“From what was told, we’re going to need a lot of power and resources.” said Twilight.

Princess Luna nodded. She knew Nightmare Moon better than anyone else did and she came up with a solution. “The Elements of Harmony and your star stones-- If we can combine the two forces with our own magic, it should provide us with what we need to defeat my former evil self for good!”

“It would be rather risky, but it may just work.” said Brain.

“Well, if Princess Celestia has no objections…?” Grand Ruler said as he gazed at her.

“I have none. If it means to save the people of my world and our friends, No risk is too great.”

Grand Ruler nodded, “How long do we have, Professor?”

“I would estimate we have twenty-four to twenty-five hours before the planet begins to break up.”

"That doesn't give us much time." said Lightning "We need a plan of action."

It was discussed and thought about, and a plan was formed: Celestia would remain behind in Unicornicopia in safety, while Luna, Twilight, and a volunteer of fighters headed back to Equestria, sneak into Nightmares fortress, find the Elements of Harmony and bring them back to Unicornicopia. If things went bad, then others would be sent to help.

Buddy Rose, Artie, and Rhymey were included into the party, and couldn’t wait to have at Nightmare, and especially Titan’s minions. “And I thought we’d seen the last of them.” Buddy Rose said.

Another main concerned was the large armada of shadowbolts. If they got caught, at least they knew the entire swarm wouldn’t all attack at once, that would be suicidal for Nightmare. Instead they would only focus on Nightmare herself, since she was controlling the fleet, much like the mother ship. If they distracted her, the fleet would go into disarray. It wouldn’t be enough to stop them, but just right to keep them off their backs.

“Krysta...” Grand Ruler said “I want you and King Topaz to round up all your best teleporting fairies. We’ll need every one of them to make good on the evacuation.”

“Yes sir.”

“Right, now I suggest we all turn in. We begin at dawn, and we’re going to need all our strength.”

Everyone agreed, and they all hoped that the poor Equestrians could hold out.

The rest-period had long since ended and the slaves were forced back to work, but one of the guards came to Nightmare and had distressing news about the prisoners in the caverns below. He had gone to relieve the guards of their posts when he noticed-- “Gone?!” snapped Nightmare “Impossible!” She ordered her guards to begin searching high and low, and decided that her slaves would suffer for this escape. Longer work hours, less breaks, and hardly any rations at all now. How much more punishment could any of them take?

Still, through all the hardship and dark hours, Twilight’s friends tried to stay brave and strong in hopes that everything would be fine soon, just as Krysta promised.

Before bed Twilight and Luna were having a fitting session. Grand Ruler had ordered uniforms and armor to be made for them. Luna and Twilight did find them slightly uncomfortable, only because they weren’t used to them, but they both felt it would help them well during the quest.

“Does every-pony wear suits like this?” Twilight asked.

“No, Twilight it’s “everybody”, not every-pony.” said Lightning “And believe me, you’re going to need the armor and more. It’s already going to be bad enough for us, that's why we need your help as much as you need us.”

Luna stood tall and proud as she gazed at her reflection and liked how the armor looked good on her, and she promised on her sister’s friendship she would not let her evil side prevail! “I do suggest we go and get some sleep.” she said “We’re going to need our rest. Goodnight.” and she went off to her quarters. Lightning and Starla escorted Twilight to her guest room, and left her so she could get some sleep.

Twilight was amazed at how grand the standard guest quarters seemed. The ones in Canterlot were nothing like this for guests. She felt honored to be placed in such a luxurious room, but she still found it all so strange. Here she was in an alien world, but then again that was known and expected, as Lightning had told her. “You are a planetary pony, from Equestria. What do you really know about space?”

He wasn't trying to be insulting, he was merely pointing out, as Twilight realized “I guess… not as much as I ought to know. I mean, there's so many things I never thought could exist or even be possible.”

She had heard the stories from Fluttershy, durring Rhymey's vist, of Starfleet traveling across whole star-systems, and having fought so many creatures.

Why they had seen things Twilight had only seen in her nightmares and couldn’t begin to imagine. “Compared to you, we Equestrians are just grains of sand on the ground.”

Lightning couldn’t argue with the logic in that. “Still, from what I’ve heard about you, you ponies are remarkable as well. You may not compare to us Starfleet in strength and experience, but you have done amazing things, and fought off enemies. We are alike in many ways.”

Twilight smiled, and what she found the most fascinating was the fact that the space were originally made from the blood samples of Equestrian ponies. So even though she and Lightning seemed different-- she being a normal pony and he being humanoid-- they were still ponies and felt could learn a lot from each other.

Twilight promised to do all she could to help out, and then she hopped into bed, and Lightning left to go to bed himself. “It’s going to be a long night.” Twilight said

As the night passed, Grand Ruler hadn’t been able to sleep very well. He was standing out on the terrace looking over his kingdom below the clouds. His heart was all torn up and his mind was going off in many directions. It was so wonderful having his beloved Celestia back in his life, but would it last? What would happen from here on out?

That’s when he noticed Celestia was standing on another, smaller terrace down from his own. She looked rather sad and confused herself. He decided to fly down and confront her. She looked up when she heard him touch down. “Are you alright, Celestia?” he asked tenderly.

Celestia admitted she was pleased and filled with a joy beyond words to have seen him again after all this time, but she honestly did not expect all this-- the vast world he had created, and the fighting force he headed, but still she found it hard to believe he was here and with her again. “It’s like you’re back from the dead.” she said softly “Mind kept telling me over and over that you were really gone, but deep in my heart I had to keep believing you were still alive.”

Grand Ruler nodded in agreement “I know how you feel. I searched and searched for you and Equestria, but I could never find you, and I began to lose hope.” He gazed down at his hands and compared them to her hoofs and how different they were.

They gazed at all the stars in the sky, just like old times. “It was so wonderful that you were able to forgive my sister.” said Celestia.

Grand Ruler turned to face her “I could understand the circumstances, and if you can forgive her then so can I for all our sakes.”

His hand soft touched her hoof and they ended up gazing into each other’s eyes. “Those eyes.” he thought “They are so beautiful.” while she was thinking “Those eyes. I missed the way they would always look upon me like that.” Their faces slowly moved in closer, and closer but they stopped. They didn’t feel they could do it, or if it was right. Not just yet. “I’m sorry.” she whispered. “No… it’s all right.” he said to her. They continued to sit and gaze at the stars while enjoying each other’s company. “Don’t worry, Celesita. We will save your friends and subjects. I promise you.”

“I believe you.”

The night had passed, and Grand Ruler made his flight to bring the dawn in. Celestia went with him, and she was impressed that he remembered what she had taught him. Then they returned to the floating palace to find everyone was already awake.

Buddy Rose, Artie, and Rhymey were there, and transformed in front of everyone. “STARFLEET MAGIC!!”

“Power of Flora!”

“Power of Art!”

“I summon within, the Power of Wind!”

The princesses were amazed to see them transform, but Twilight was more amazed than they were. “Wow!” she exclaimed “How do I get one of those?”

“When you grow up kid.” joked Buddy Rose.

“Are you all ready?” Grand Ruler asked, and the team nodded. “Princess Luna…” said Celestia “You are charged with Twilight and the other’s safety Make sure that nothing serious happens to them.” Luna bowed and understood. “Come along.” she said, and team followed her to the portal gate. Then they jumped through and were gone, heading back to Equestria, or rather Nightmarica as it was now known, and they only had under ten more hours before the planet exploded according to the reports.

“Well, there they go,” Lightning said. “Do you think they’ll be alright?” asked Starla. “I hope so.” said Krysta, only she and Celestia knew how truly dangerous it was back there. Grand Ruler felt a little frustrated of having to stay behind as well. What he would give to have a confrontation with Nightmare and make her pay for all she had caused for so many as well as casting him into space all those ages ago hoping he would have died! Just once!

He cleared his throat again capturing everyone’s attention. “Everyone in-spite of the circumstances, we are forgetting we have a guest. Perhaps you would like a tour of the kingdom, Princess?”

“Oh, yes, I would like that very much.” she had only flown over the kingdom, but hadn’t actually seen much of it yet, and it was rather brave the way she was acting in the present situation. There wasn’t much she and others could do to help anyway and there was no point in sitting around doing nothing, and it would give them all something other to think about.

Lightning, Starla, and Krysta agreed to take her on a tour. Once again, Grand Ruler had to stay behind for he had his duties to do.

Celestia turned to smile at him in thanks before she took off with the others. Grand Ruler sighed softly but happily to himself. The twins softly nudged one another snickering softly.

Once in Nightmarica, Luna and her team didn’t like the looks of what had obviously gotten way worse since Luna and Twilight were away. Rhymey hated the sight of the kingdom most of all…

“It’s all been destroyed! It all is in ruin.
Surly, this is that Nightmare’s doin’!”

Twilight especially hated the way the kingdom looked-- So chaotic and dismal to many. She prayed silently that their mission would be a success, but at least she and Luna had their magic as they were not bound by the magic chains and the Starfleet fighters by their side.

Suddenly, another earthquake shook the planet and parts of the ground began to crack like an egg. “Is everyone alright?” asked Luna. Everyone was fine, but the fighters recorded the tremor with their seismograph scans. “It’s getting worse by the second. The planet may blow sooner than we thought.” said Artie.

“Well, let’s get going then.” said Buddy Rose.

Following Luna, who told them to stay close to her-- They passed her along the mountains of rubble, and ruins of what Equestria once was. Every so often, a row of guards would pass by. They were everywhere, as was expected as it was a fleet of almost ten-million.

Twilight could even see the slaves working themselves to the bone, including Cadance and Shining Armor. “Don’t worry, we’re right here.” she whispered softly, even though they couldn’t hear her.

The closer they got to Nightmare’s fortress, the more the shadowbolts seemed to pop out around almost every corner, and it was getting harder to duck them. Twilight and Luna couldn’t even try to warp the team there or they would get spotted for sure.

“This is crazy!” snapped Artie “We need some sort of cover up.”

Luna agreed and decided to use a little magic of her own that she knew. “Don’t be frightened.” she said, and her horn began to glow as her shadowy mane seemed to expand, enveloping around the team and herself. Then, all was quiet, but the team confused. All the land around them seemed to be cloaked in a shadowy veil of darkness-- much darker than how it seemed before. “Come along…” Luna said, and the team followed her, directly through a path where the guards would easily see them, but surprisingly they didn’t even move or seem to notice them. “We are invisible to them.” Luna explained, “We are cloaked under the shadows of my mane and blending in with our surroundings.”

The others thought this was incredible…

“This is wondrous.
They can’t see or hear us.” said Rhymey. He even stood in front of a guard and waved at him, but the guard didn’t notice a thing. Twilight gave him a look telling him to cut it out and stay focussed.

“Look!” cried Luna. The fortress was just up ahead. “Let’s go, guys. Nice and easy” Buddy Rose said calmly. Sadly, neither of them knew that someone had already spotted them.

As the tour progressed, a song was heard as Celestia viewed all the many wonderful sights of the kingdom.

While stopping in Rainbow City for a rest Celestia was impressed, but still felt it was all so strange. The entire pony populace was consisted all of alicorns, all humanoid, and not a single one had a cutie mark. Not to mention all the supped devices and technologies, “It’s incredible!” she said. “It almost isn’t all that different from Equestria.”

“Believe me, your highness…” said Lightning “After meeting you and Twilight. I think we all feel the same.”

Starla nodded in agreement, but Celestia thought it sad that many things were different. They did not celebrate Hearth’s Warming Eve, Hearts and Hooves day, or other holidays there were in Equestria, though they were taught of them. There were hardly ever any Grand Galloping Galas, or even any seasonal weather duties. Unicornicopia had no spring, summer, fall, or winter. The temperature was always nice and soothing, just as Grand Ruler kept it so it wouldn’t be too hot or cold, but he still made it rain every now and then, and have the winds pick up. Once in a while they would have a few parties in celebration of victory, and a few grand gatherings, but not very many and officers would remain on constant vigil for any signs of danger.

Starla and Lightning explained they chose not to celebrate such things because of all the risk, and reminders. The reason they were not celebrated was due to the fact that they would be making themselves easy targets for enemy-attacks. After all, when was the perfect time to strike when their guard was down than at a big celebration or something like that, and would it feel right to spend all that hard work to make things so beautiful only to see it all wrecked in seconds? Even still many friends and loved ones had been lost over the ages in wars and in accidents. For those still alive, celebrating or having parties would only make them feel awful that their loved ones are not there anymore.

That’s why it was it very important for Starfleet to always be on constant alert. They never knew when or how attacks would come, but always rest assured they would come and they would have to be ready for anything, and even then it was always frightfully risky. “Going out into battle is never easy for any of us.” Lightning explained “We always wake up in the mornings fearing or wondering if this day could be our last, but it’s our duty to protect the civilians and others who have asked for our services out in space. If we don’t fight off the evil, who will? Grand Ruler taught me that, and many other things.”

Celestia understood, and felt Lightning had been taught well. He and Twilight seemed roughly the same age and yet he seemed to be very brave and strong minded, especially seeing as he couldn’t’ do regular magic. Still, she found it sad that all the ponies spent most of their time like this. She almost wished there was something she could do, but she could see and tell, “Celesto has raised you all very well, and I admire that about him.” She spoke as if her feelings were still true and strong. It was becoming clear that she was still in love with Grand Ruler, but was it right to still be after all this time?

Krysta could only silently sigh “Here we go again.” She was comparing Celestia and Grand Ruler to the way Lightning and Starla acted-- crazy about one another, but not willing to confess and try. “Sometimes I wonder if I’m surrounded by chickens instead of ponies.” she thought quietly.

Suddenly, they could feel the ground starting to rumble, and many of the civilians were screaming and running in panic. The gang raced round the corner and saw them, Dementia, Rep-Stallion, and Mysterious. “We’re back! Did you miss us?” Rep-Stallion teased.

Lightning and Starla expressions hardened.

“You three...!” snapped Celestia.

“Hey! What’s she doing here? I thought she was locked up back in Nightmarica?” snapped Dementia. “It makes no difference.” hissed Mysterious “Even she has no idea of what she’s up against now.”

“What are you talking about?” asked Lightning, and he suddenly got his answer when the minions began to demonstrate the powers Nightmare Moon had given to them. They began to magically make duplicates of themselves again, only far stronger than any puppet that Titan’s old tricks seemed to make! “They’re multiplying!” cried Krysta.

First there were two of each, then four, then eight. Soon, there were enough copies to cover the entire block city, but it was easy to tell who the originals were as all the copies seemed to be darker in color that the originals. The alarms sounded and everyone ran for the nearest shelters as the shields were empowered.

Before long, the minions had once again assembled a whole army of themselves. “Take a good look at us now!” hissed Mysterious. “These creatures are by far our most powerful creations ever. You don’t stand a chance this time.”

Lightning and Starla stood side-by-side, and transformed. “Starfleet Magic!!” and now were ready for a big fight. They suggested that the princess get somewhere safe. “Grand Ruler would never forgive us if anything happened to you.” Lightning said.

“No!” Celestia said as she stepped forward. “I’m not going anywhere! These creatures helped Nightmare enslave my kingdom. I won’t sit by and do nothing about this. It’s my honor.” She spoke like a true fighter, yet she wasn’t even wearing any protective armor. “I’ll be fine, don’t try and stop me!” she said.

The others were reluctant to agree, and the minions and their army thought this was their lucky day. “We get to destroy our enemies and Nightmare’s most hated enemy too.” said Dementia.

In Grand Ruler’s palace, one of the guards rushed in to warn him, “Sire, a battle is about to take place. It’s Titan’s minions, and the princess is down there too!”

Grand Ruler’s heart skipped a beat. “Celestia?!” he cried “What is she thinking?” He already knew she didn’t stand too much of a chance against Titan minions the last time. He just had to go down there. “Stand watch over the palace!” he said to all his guards. Then he was off.

As he soared through the air he kept on telling himself over and over “I will not let anything happen to her! Never!”

Meanwhile, Discord was now hovering directly over Unicornicopia and chuckling sinisterly. He was ready to begin his attack! “Sorry, Starfleet… your time is up!”

To Be Continued…!

(Promo)

In our next episode, during the struggle against the minions and their forces, Unicornicopia is suddenly attacked by Discord causing incredible damage forcing the ponies to evacuate from their own world. Meanwhile, the team on Equestria continue on their quest for the Elements of Harmony only to run right into the face of danger, and soon find themselves in a near hopeless situation, and Equestria’s condition worsens.

Is this really the end of both planets? Will either race survive the chaos and destruction?

Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic!”

(Next Episode: “Part 4: Devastating Destructions”)

Episode 24: Part 4: Devastating Destruction

“Previously on Starfleet Magic”

The princesses Celestia, Luna and Twilight were released from their captivity and brought to Unicornicopia. After a tearful reunion of two lost lovers, it was soon discovered that Equetsria was doomed to explode. So plans were made to send a team off to retrieve the Elements of Harmony and evacuate the planet to safety. However, Unicornicopia was suddenly invaded by the return of Titan’s minions, and before long a fierce battle was about to begin.

EPISODE TWENTY-FOUR

The minions and their army dashed forth. “Scatter!” shouted Lightning as he and the others leapt out of the way. It was a good thing at least the clones of the minions didn’t have any fire power like the original, but there were still so many of them and they were just as strong in brute strength, they practically didn’t need magic.

However, Lightning and Starla were strong too, thanks to the power of the star stones.

They rammed into the clones and knocked them aside. Celestia blasted more clones by shooting them with magical beams from her horn, and those that snuck up on her from behind, she bucked them hard. She even used her telekinesis to lift some of the clones up high and toss them away. Unfortunately her powers were still not as strong and as effective and the clones surrounded her from all sides, and the others were all surrounded too. The clones just wouldn’t stay down.

“There’s too many of them!” cried Lightning.

“We need backup!” added Starla

That’s when the ground burst and, Dyno and Myte and had tunneled their way over. “You called?” Dyno said.

“And we brought some more help.” said Myte, and he whistled loudly as an army of Starfleet fighters came soaring into action, much to the minion chagrin. “Hey! Who invited them!” snapped Rep-Stallion.

“Never mind!” growled Dementia “Let’s get them!”

“Agreed!” said Mysterious and he and others began to conjure more clones. Soon, nearly the whole of town square was full of fighters and clones fighting like crazy. “Yeah, this evens out the odds.” said Lightning “But we have to find a way to get at the real minions! Then maybe these clones will vanish.”

Everyone agreed, but such a task was easier said than done. Despite the minions were easily recognizable, they were still hard to spot or get near with all the clones huddling so close together. “Keep trying!” shouted Celestia “We’ll find them!”

Meanwhile, in Nightmarica, the team had managed to enter the fortress, still invisible under Luna’s magic, but she couldn’t keep the magic up forever and would have to stop soon. “Which way to do we go now?” asked Buddy Rose.

“Follow me.” said Luna. She figured she’d know every last inch of the fortress as it was pretty much her own thoughts and design when she was still fused with Nightmare. I know every crack in the stone, and every floor and hallway as I thought it up.”

The space ponies and even Twilight were wide-eyed. “She is really starting to freak me out.” Artie whispered to the others.

As they continued forward, Luna began to feel a little tired. “I cannot hold the spell up much longer.” she said, but that was when it wore off completely. “Princess!” cried Twilight, she was careful not to speak too loud. Poor Luna was panting softly. “I will be fine.” she answered “I will need a while to restore my magic. You all will have to guard me.”

“We’ll do our best.
You just rest.” said Rhymey.

Luna was still strong enough to guide the team, and the first thing they had to do was get to the chamber where the Elements of Harmony were, but now that they were no longer invisible, it was harder than ever to get around without being spotted by the armada of shadow guards.

The planet quaked again, for a few seconds. “If we don’t hurry we not have to worry about being spotted.” said Twilight. They continued to press on, unaware that they were followed by a small stream of shadowy smog that had been perusing them ever since they had entered!

Suddenly, they could all hear voices, or rather sounds of groaning. Twilight gazed down through a large hole in the wall, and saw all her friends in the main throne room, slaving away. All of them were filthy and sore. They all looked as if they were going to die from exhaustion. Rhymey looked down too and saw Fluttershy. He felt very bad for her and wished he could do something to get her out of there now.

Poor Rarity looked as if she had dusted a chimney with her whole body, all covered in soot and grime, and she felt even a-hundred baths wouldn’t be able to clean her off now.

“Oh!” groaned Applejack as she felt her aching back. “I almost got the nerve to wish to be executed.”

“No, don’t say that!” cried Pinkie Pie “We can’t let this slavery break our souls.”

“And just what do you suggest?” snapped Rainbow Dash “Look at us! We have no magic, no wings, and even the princesses and Twilight are gone. You hear what the guards said.”

Spike said nothing, and was still worried about Twilight, but he kept telling himself silently that she was fine and would be back soon.

Fluttershy sighed and continued to mop the floor, and then she looked up, and swore she could see someone up there. Someone familiar! She hoped it was a sign that they’d be rescued soon. That’s when the quill Rhymey had given her fell from her mane to the floor, she quickly put it back.

The team had to save the ponies, and all the other slaves fast. Luckily, the room they needed to get to was just ahead-- down a long stretch with guards standing all in a row. “Oh, this is just great.” said Artie.

“We can’t get past them.
We can’t even blast them.” said Rhymey.

Luna admitted that even she couldn’t figure a way to get past all the guards without making a terrific scene or noise. “We don’t need to.” Twilight said “Watch this. I’ve been practicing for just such an emergency.” She crept up as close as she could so as not to be seen, and then concentrated hard. Her horn began to glow and let out a soft wave of magic that traveled all the way down the hall, and all the guards just dropped their lances and fell over like trees, in a deep sleep.

The Starfleet fighters were amazed. “Wow! Not bad.” said Buddy Rose “You’d make a fair Starfleet fighter.”

Twilight smirked, and then they all proceeded forward and reached the sealed door. “You sure the elements are behind here?” asked Artie.

“Yes.” said Luna. “As you were told, my evil side may be strong enough to do all this, but it would seem she is still powerless to break this seal and alter this chamber.”

“But how can we then?” asked Twilight.

“I thought only Celestia’s touch,
would undo the seal as such.” added Rhymey

Luna shook her head and revealed that before their departure, Celestia had given her a single keystone with the magic of Celestia’s powers to break the seal. “My sister trusts me, and I wish to honor that trust, and take out my evil side for good.” She set the keystone into the lock hole, and suddenly, the door began to slide open, and there resting on a small pillar was the jewel-encrusted treasure chest. “That’s it.” cried Twilight “The elements are in that chest.”

The others all smiled, but as Twilight, lightning and thunder flashed with the sound of evil laughter as the evil Super Nightmare Moon appeared. “Surprise-Surprise!”

The gang gasped and began back away as the evil demon took the chest. “I’ve been aware of your little intrusion all this time. I just held out until his point so that I may confront and punish you myself.” she held up the chest “…which should not be too difficult as you don’t have these!”

The team was growing annoyed with the sound of her evil voice, and stood ready to fight, but Nightmare laughed again, and her eyes began to glow, and all five of them were being lifted up by her psycho-kinesis, and she threw them all out the window, and out of the fortress!

Twilight’s friends heard the commotion and gazed outside. “It’s Twilight, And Princess Luna.” cried Spike, “But, who are those other ponies with them?”

Fluttershy gasped when she saw one of them was Rhymey, but the others saw a large portion of the vast army of shadowbolts coming straight at the team and ready to finish them off, but Nightmare appeared and quickly shouted. “HALT! These ones are mine.”

“Look!” cried Pinkie as she pointed at the chest Nightmare had with her.

“The Elements of Harmony?!” cried Rarity

“Oh Nellie, this can’t be good!” added Applejack, and just then, another tremor shook the planet.

Princess Luna gazed at her evil counterpart and spoke severely. “You must listen, we haven’t much time. This planet is going to explode!”

The slaves in the near area heard that, and all began to feel fretful, but Nightmare Moon didn’t believe it a bit. “A few minor tremors do not worry me.”

“Those tremors are ripping the planet apart.” snapped Twilight “If we don’t get out of here soon we’ll all be blown pieces.”

“Silence!” shouted Nightmare, and used her powers to fling Twilight back hard into the others. “The only concern I have now is getting rid of you pests once and for all!”

The team sighed. They hoped to make it easy but it was obvious they’d have to fight after all, Star stones and elements, or not. “Do you think we can take her?” asked Artie. Luna honestly didn’t know, but she had waited for this ever since her evil side returned. “I swear to you, Nightmare!” she growled “If it takes me to beyond my limitations, I will destroy you for everything you’ve done!”

This only amused Nightmare and made her laugh “What I have done? I was born out of the jealously and resentment you felt towards others, making you just as guilty as me.”

“That may be…” said Luna “But on the day you were exiled from me, I pledged my every waking moment to make up for everything that was done, and I intend to honor that now.”

Everyone stood ready for battle, and drew out their weapons, but suddenly, without warning. Rhymey swung his sword at Twilight knocking her down. “Hey! What are you doing?” she snarled at him. Rhymey then almost slashed at her again, but she rolled out of the way.

“Rhymey!!” snapped Buddy Rose.

“What’s wrong with you?!” added Artie.

Rhymey groaned and struggled…

“Something’s wrong, I can tell!
This is work of an evil spell!”

“You are correct.” hissed Nightmare. Her horn was glowing wildly. “You are under my control now, and you will do as I wish.” She forced Rhymey to constantly attack the others, while they were forced to dodge and defend, but they didn’t dare strike him back.

Luna tried to charge at Nightmare, but even while holding her spell on Rhymey, she raised her hand and blasted her back with a powerful wave of magic. This battle was going to be harder than they thought.

Back on Unicornicopia, the battle with the clones and the minions was still going, and getting worse than ever. One could look down from the sky and see fighting everywhere as well as hearing clashing of weapons or the clattering of crashes.

Grand Ruler finally arrived on the scene, and joined in the fight, and brought some of his other guards with him. “You think this intimidates us?!” shouted Rep-Stallion, “Get’ em, clones!” and he summoned more of his clones to attack!

Celestia had never known such an invasion attempt before. “We can’t hold out much longer!” she shouted. “Keep going!” shouted Lightning, “We can do it! Just need a little more fire power.”

“Agreed!” said Grand Ruler. “Everyone, use your special attacks!”

Everyone did as they were told, and it seemed to be working. The clones were being wiped out fast, making it easier to break through. “We need more, clones!” cried Dementia, but the fighters managed to wipe out the clones faster than the minions could make more. “It’s working!” cried Lightning “Keep going!”

The fight seemed to be going smooth for the fighters, but all of a sudden the ground shook hard and violently as if something huge had crashed, and everyone fell over. “What was that?” asked Grand Ruler.

“It felt like an explosion!” cried Dyno. Myte scanned the ground with his visor. “It was an explosion!”

“What have you three done now?” snapped Krysta at the minions, but the minions were just as shocked and admitted that they had nothing to do with it. “Hey, look!” cried Starla as a giant molten fireball soaring across the sky heading straight in the direction of Blacktop Mountain. It crashed hard in the Violet Swamp shaking the ground again. Then, they all saw him-- a gigantic black dragon, with silver claws, large dark red wings, and an evil face that many didn’t recognize. The fighters tried to scan him with their visors, but there was no data.

“Who or what is that?!” cried Lightning. That’s when the dragon spotted them all below and began to speak. “Hi-di-hey there…” Celestia and Grand Ruler recognized the voice immediately...

“...Discord!!”

they weren't sure how it was even possible that he was the huge evil dragon he was now, or how he even escaped his stone prison, but it was him!

“Ahh, Celesto, It’s been a long time!” Discord hissed

“Master, you know him?” asked Lightning.

His mentor and Celestia’s eyes narrowed in anger. Grand Ruler was there during the original war on Discord in Equestria when he helped give the Princesses a chance to encase the demon in stone the first time.

“How did you get free, and how did you get here?” added Celestia.

Discord chuckled “Does it really make a difference? The fact is I’m here, better and stronger than ever. Oh, and did I mention the part where all of you and this planet get destroyed?”

Everyone gasped, and the minions were outraged. “Who sent you to spoil our fun? This is our turf!” snarled Rep-Stallion. Dementia and Mysterious nodded angrily.

“Is it now? Gee, that’s too bad.” Discord mocked “Guess you’ll be destroyed too.” Discord and he launched several small fireballs everywhere. The minions decided to leave before they got hurt, and vanished out of sight. At the same time, all their clones vanished too.

The second they were gone, Discord head straight for the mountain, ready to break it to pieces. “Let’s all try firing on him at once.” Lightning suggested. It was doubtful that it would work, but it was worth a try. Grand Ruler made all the attackers fall in line. “Ready, take aim, FIRE!!” Everyone fired their best attacks; Lightning used the spectrum stream combined with uniforce. Grand Ruler used the uniforce too and Celestia fired her own burst of magic. The stream of magic and power struck Discord, but didn’t seem to affect him at all. “Is that the best you can do?” he teased “Oh, now I feel insulted. So…” and with his huge claws he began thrashing and crumpling the mountain, sending large boulders flying far across the land. “Look out!” cried Krysta!

Everyone scattered about to avoid the debris from above as Discord continued to wreak the mountain, and then he flew up, up, up, and with a fiery blaze, he completely vaporized it in a huge explosion. The force shook the lands, and darkened the skies, and when everyone looked up, they were simply devastated. “Blacktop Mountain…!” peeped Lightning. “It’s… gone…!”

Discord stretched his huge dragon arms out, “That was fun. Now which is next?” Here merely decided to just fly around and destroy whatever he saw. He began burning up the forests, the parries, turning the waters into seas of lava. Though the civilians were all still protected by the force fields, they all felt even there they were no longer safe.

Not a single place on the entire planet was safe now!

The damages were increasing every second, and the planet was slowly turning into a burning and desolated wasteland.

Grand Ruler, for the first time ever, was completely overwhelmed by what was happening. He pounded his hands flat against the wall in frustration and just stood like that as the shock and devastation consumed him. This was not expected, nor prepared for, and already it was seen there was nothing even he could do to restore the damage at this rate; even with his power. It would take far too long, just like it the first time he made it.

The other ponies huddled around him. “Sire, what do we do now?” asked Starla “Sire?!” but his majesty just stood there, hardly moving or blinking his eyes. Celestia tried but couldn’t get a response either.

Lightning clenched his fists and closed his eyes tightly. What he was about to say next really pained him and would pain everyone else, but it came out. “We’ve got to evacuate everyone to planet Sharma…Now!”

As expected, the others were shocked. “Que? Evacuate?” asked Myte. “He’s right…” said Celestia, “That demon has the fire power to blow this planet to smithereens, and I don’t see much else we can do, but we’ve got to save everyone.”

The team reluctantly agreed.

Krysta quickly vanished through a portal, and in a split second later came back with many of her fairies from Luminous. “Good thing we were on standby. Let’s get to work.”

Without a moment to spare, everyone scattered about evacuating the entire planet-- Every alicorn and every animal. The royal guards helped out too, hurrying everyone along through every portal and sending them all to Sharma and safety. Cookie Dough, Abra Kadabra, Inquerius all pitched in to help in the evacuation before leaving themselves.

It was very difficult to get everyone out what with Discord constantly wreaking destruction all over. The villages were being crushed and pummeled, and more landscapes were charred and blown. Even Lightning’s house was completely demolished.

All Grand Ruler did was just stand there in the middle of the crumpling Rainbow City, and gazed in overwhelming devastation at the chaos and destruction around him.

The evacuation still continued. As the planet became deserted of life forms, the fairies in each sector, having completed their labours in evacuating all in the entire area left through their portals and close them.

Everyone made checks and doubles checks, even scanning in case they had missed a single pony or creature, which so far they had not. Once the planet was evacuated, all that was left was to evacuate the Grand Ruler’s sky palace where the last remaining portal was.

All the royal guards, palace hands, everyone left. Soon, only the gang were left along with Professor Brain. “The laboratory and control rooms have been completely evacuated.” said Brain.

“That should be everyone.” Lightning said.

“Okay! I better check back and see how the others are on Sharma.” Krysta said and then she jumped into the portal and was gone.

The team stopped to take one last look outside and could hardly believe what was becoming of their home world. Still, they couldn’t stay any longer. Celestia felt really bad for them all. “Come on, we have to go.” she said to them all. Everyone found it hard to agree but knew they had to, but as they all prepared to jump into the portal. “Wait…!” snapped Starla, and everyone skidded to a halt, “Where’s Grand Ruler?”

“Didn’t he come up with us?” asked Celestia, but everyone checked around and he was nowhere to be seen. That’s when Lightning realized, “He’s still down in Rainbow City!”

“Dios Mio!” the twins cried, and they with everyone else, dashed out of the palace like the very lightning that shook the skies.

Surely enough, they found Grand Ruler still standing in Rainbow City Square, just standing there with a look of extreme heartbreak and devastation in his eyes. His cape was no longer magically fluttering, and his mane had gone dark-- no longer showing the images of space!

“Sire!” cried Starla. “What are you doing here? We have to go now!” but his majesty just stood where he was, hardly moving, making a sound or even blinking his eyes. Celestia calmly approached him. “Celesto… what’s wrong?” He finally found strength enough to speak, but very softly and deeply hurt. “I just can't believe it...!" he hinted at everyone around him "Everything I worked so hard to make. Everything I’ve protected and stood for all these centuries. Everything I’ve held dear to me...!

…It’s gone!

I’ve… lost it all.”

Everyone understood, and felt badly sorry for him. They too felt the same about losing their home, but Lightning approached him and said “Master, that’s not true. You haven’t lost everything.”

His mentor sadly gazed down at him.

“You still have me, and the others.”

Grand Ruler gazed up at all the others who smiled and nodded at him. “Everyone in the kingdom is safe now. You still have them too.” said Starla.

“You always taught us that things come with a price.” said Dyno. “We can all rebuild. We can survive.” added Myte.

Grand Ruler blinked once, and gazed at Celestia. She smiled at him and blinked twice at him “Celesto, after one-thousand years we are together again, and you promised you’d help me save my world… just as now I helped you save yours.”

Lightning looked his teacher deeply into the eyes. “Master, you have plenty to live and fight for. Don’t give up. Just believe. Believe in yourself and those who follow you, like the good leader they see you!”

His majesty remembered all the times he had said that to others. “Just have faith and believe!” His confidence returned. His mane began to shimmer again and his cape fluttered. “You’re right... all of you. Let’s get out of here!”

Everyone agreed, but that’s when Discord flew overhead. “Aw, how touching. I think I’m going to cry.” he mocked “It’s really almost a pity I have to do this. Oh, wait… no it isn’t!” He flew higher, and higher. “What is he doing now?” asked Dyno. Dyno scaled a lookout tower and looked through the telescope. “Ay’! He is going to attack the palace!”

“THE PALACE?!” everyone cried. “But the last portal is in there!” cried Lightning.

It was too late, with a huge fiery breath; Discord blasted the palace hard. Fiery explosions burst out from underneath it “The engines, they’re out!” cried Grand Ruler.

The remains of the blazing palace began to fall from above like a burning meteor. “IT’S COMING DOWN ON TOP OF US!!” screamed Starla! Everyone gazed up in the biggest of shock.

WHAAMM!! The impact caused a massive explosion and shockwave that collapsed the entire city in a massive mountain of wreckage and fires.

Discord laughed the loudest, hardest and evilest laugh he had ever laughed. “I did it! I destroyed them!” he shouted for joy “Long Live Evil!!” he continued to laugh!

While in Nightmarica, Nightmare was proving to be too much for the others to handle. Rhymey was still battling his comrades, still under Nightmare’s control. Twilight tried as hard as she could, but couldn’t break the spell. While Luna just couldn’t overpower her evil side and was continuously thrown back, or zapped with extreme magic.

By this point now, the rest of the gang were all thrown together in a corner, and Rhymey was approaching them with his sword at the ready for the kill. Nightmare laughed and said, “I’m going to enjoy seeing this.” Her horn then glowed brightly, and she forced Rhymey to raise his sword up high. Rhymey tried all he could, but he couldn’t seem to break Nightmare’s control. “Rhymey, don’t do this!” cried Artie.

“What will I do…?!
She’ll make me kill you!”

To Be Continued…!

(Promo)

In our next episode, the team sees no alternative but to fight their friend back, but Nightmare Moon still proves to be a pitiless enemy as she continues to thrash them all about.

Meanwhile, the other friends somehow manage to survive, but are seemingly trapped on Unicornicopia as Discord continues his brutal assault causing the planet to break up. With time running out for the two planets, all hope seems to rapidly fade.

Have the ponies ultimately failed? Is the end truly in sight?

Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic!”

(Next Episode: “Part 5: Borrowing Miracles”)

Episode 25: Part 5: Borrowing Miracles

“Previously on Starfleet Magic”

Disaster struck both ways, as the team ran straight into Nightmare Moon and soon found themselves battling against Rhymey under the demon’s evil control. Meanwhile Unicornicopia was suddenly attacked by Discord, with his new demon-dragon powers, ripping through the planet like paper-cut-outs forcing everyone to evacuate immediately, but before our friends could depart themselves, Discord attacked the sky palace causing it to fall down on the city and burying the gang alive!

EPISODE TWENTY-FIVE

Rhymey’s sword was charging up, against his will. No matter how hard he tried to resist Nightmare’s control, he couldn’t stop her. “Destroy them! Destroy them now!” Nightmare growled.

“No! I won’t…!
Please, don’t!”

Suddenly Buddy Rose realized that Nightmare was staring directly at Rhymey during the entire battle, not even blinking her eyes once, meaning the spell only worked if she kept constant eye-contact. “I hate to do this Rhymey, but it has to be done.” He said, and he lunged forth and rammed Rhymey hard in the chest shoving him hard to the side and out of Nightmare’s view, and he quickly turned round and fired a magic pulse from his horn straight ta Nightmare’s eyes, shocking her for a split second enough to release Rhymey from her spell.

The others then helped Rhymey to his feet. “I’m so sorry, Rhymey.” said Buddy Rose, but Rhymey was grateful.

“All warriors must do the right thing,
I’m glad you did before my sword did swing.”

Nightmare, however, burst out laughing loud and wickedly. “You really think my power can be outmatched so easily?” she sniggered and she used her powers to lift everyone up high again, and smash them into one another like bumper balls while she laughed maliciously.

The poor Equestrians watched helplessly from the fortress until the guards whipped them and forced them back to slaving. “That’s it!” growled Spike “I can’t take another minute of this.” The others couldn’t either. While cleaning the floor all together, they whispered to one another about a plan that would probably. It was very risky and dangerous to try, but then again anything was better than being slaves and beaten up anyway.

Meanwhile, Discord was still thrashing about and breaking Unicornicopia to bits, and really felt he had seen the last of Celesto, Celestia, and all their followers… when in fact, underneath that massive mountain of rubble and wreckage, they were very much still alive.

Grand Ruler and Celestia had combined their powers together to form a barrier dome to keep the rubble above them. They were all now in a hollow about twenty feet in diameter. Everyone, except Lightning used their horns to cast glows of light in the darkness. They were safe for the moment, but they were most definitely trapped.

Celestia and Grand Ruler couldn’t use their powers to teleport everyone out as they needed to conserve all their magic for the barrier, plus there was far too much rubble to penetrate through. “Can’t we just blast our way out of here?” asked Starla. “Not a chance chica.” said Dyno. “Just the tiniest move will bring the whole thing down on our heads.” added Myte. “I don’t think it matters much.” said Lightning. He referred to the fact that the last portal went down with the palace, leaving everyone trapped on the planet. The worst part of all, the barrier wouldn’t last forever. All hope seemed pretty much gone, even his majesty couldn’t figure a way out of this one.

Starla was sitting by herself in a corner of the hollow. The expression on her face was enough to tell she had given up all hope. Lightning walked over to her, “Starla, are you scared?” he asked as he sat next to her. Starla nodded. “Yeah… I am.”

“Me too.” replied Lightning, and he wrapped his arm and hoof around her comfortingly. She smiled and rested up against him.

Grand Ruler felt terrible. It was all his fault they were trapped now. He gazed over at Celestia. “I’m sorry.” he said to her.

“Celesto…?”

“This is all my doing. I’ve only made things worse, and now I’ve gotten you involved to. I should have known better.”

Celestia understood how he was feeling, “Don’t let it get you down.” she said “You didn’t expect this any more than anyone did. You are still a great warrior, and you’ve done so much for your people.”

“The princess is right, master.” said Lightning “Besides, I still haven’t given up. We’ve been in tough spots before. We can find a way out of here.”

“Eh… I beg your pardon.” Professor Brain said “But perhaps may be a good time to explain to everyone about my secret project I have been working on.”

“At a time like this?” snapped Dyno “You should be thinking more of a way we can get out of here.” added Myte.

Brain tipped his glasses, “My dear fellows-- that is precisely what my project is in fact.” He cleared his throat and explained his project, which also explained the explosions that came from his house the past while. They were tests of rocket fuel and propellant, for he had, for many years, been construction a spaceship, and just a couple of days ago he was prepared to commission for a test flight, but the mission got in the way and he put it on hold.

“You’ve been building a spaceship?” Starla asked in disbelief

Brain nodded. “I had always theorized and visualized other means of traversing through dimensional space. By studying the effects of the teleportation rays it became sufficient in creating protective surfaces which should withstand the void. As for propulsion, it travels using the same source of magic as that of dimensional pathways. I am more than certain it should succeed.”

Everyone was still gazing at him with wide-eyes. “You’ve built a spaceship, as in a way for us to get off this planet?!” Lightning snapped.

“Yes…” replied Brain “Shall we say… quite a convenience?”

Hope started to shine everyone’s eyes, “Just one problem.” Starla pointed out “We trapped in here, and this whole place is going to cave in on our heads any minute.”

She was right! Celestia and Grand Ruler could feel the magic barrier getting weak, and Discord was still attacking causing more tremors which shook the whole planet. They didn’t even have to scan it to know it was going to explode soon. Another small tremor shook and Lightning fell flat on the ground, but strangely he could feel a soft breeze flying by his ear. He got up and put his hand over the area. “Lightning…? What’s wrong?” asked Starla.

“Put your hand here. There’s air coming through here.”

Everyone huddled around. “I feel it…” said Celestia.

Dyno sniffed the air “What is that I smell?” he asked. His brother sniffed too “It smells thick and damp.”

Everyone took a whiff, and came up with the explanation that they were standing directly over the sewer-passages under the street, and suddenly they all figured of tunneling under the ground and then follow the passage ways to Brain’s underground lab and hangar where his spaceship was standing ready. “But the ground, it’s too solid!” cried Starla “How can we dig through it.”

“Step aside. This is where we take over.” said Dyno. “Si, there’s no ground on this planet that the brothers La Guava can’t break through.”

Another tremor shook, and the barrier was growing weaker, and the rubble above it began to quiver and tiny chunks began to fall through. “Hurry boys! There isn’t much time!” said Grand Ruler.

The twins used their flame-powers to softly melt the rock in the ground until they had made a hole wide enough for everyone to slip through. “Let’s go!” snapped Lightning. One-by-One, everyone slipped through the hole into the tunnels below. Their majesties were the last ones to go, and that’s when the barrier gave way and the hollow collapsed under the mountain.

Now, that they were free, Celestia and Grand Ruler used their magic to teleport everyone to an area just below where Greenland once stood. Brain’s house and laboratory, and everything he had above ground had been demolished, but his secret underground lab was still intact, and there stood his newly completed spaceship. A typical rocket, but big enough for them all to fit inside.

“Well, everyone… eh… what do you think?” Brain asked.

No one said a thing, but they hastily boarded and through Brain’s instructions they began to activate the ship’s power. “Stand by for takeoff.” Brain said “Opening roof hatch!”

As the rocket engine warmed up, the whole platform began to rise up through the tunnel overhead, and the ground outside slide open as the rocket went into place. Then the ramp tilted it until it was pointing skyward. Brain took his place at the controls, and everyone strapped in tightly. “Ready everyone?” asked Brain, and everyone shouted “READY!!”

Three, two, one… they blasted off! “It’s working!” cried Celestia.

“We’re really flying.” added Lightning.

“Satisfactory! Most-most-most satisfactory!” cried Brian, but as suddenly the rocket stopped so suddenly as Discord had grabbed it. “Well, well… what have we here?” he asked teasingly as he gazed inside the ship, and he was rather impressed that everyone had survived the collapse of the city. “And you have a new toy for me to play with too? Aw, you shouldn’t have.” He rattled the ship violently shaking everyone inside. Then he drew in a huge breath, ready to blast the ship to ashes. “He’s going to fire on us!” cried Starla.

“Not quite!” snapped Brain, and he flipped a switch which raised a large shielding plate over the front of the ship, blocking Discord’s fiery breath. “Mm, you’re more resourceful than I thought.” hissed Discord, and he rattled the ship again. “I think… I’m going… to be sick!” groaned Dyno. “We’ve got to get out of here!” cried Myte.

“I’m giving it all I’ve got!” cried Brain “The thrusters are not powerful enough!”

“We need to break free from his grip!” said Celestia.

Lightning had an idea and he got out the rainbow rod and headed for the back of the ship where the hatch was. “Open the hatch!” he shouted. “Lightning, what are doing?” shouted Grand Ruler “Saving us, that’s what!” replied Lightning and as soon as the hatch was open, Lightning got a good view of Discord’s huge, ugly face and fire the spectrum stream and uniforce at the same time, straight at the dragon’s face, but Discord was still too strong and he hardly felt the blasts at all. He laughed at Lightning’s feeble attempts. “Don’t you ever learn? That stuff doesn’t work on me.” and he rattled she ship some more, and Lightning almost fell out.

“It’s been fun really…” said Discord “…But I’m afraid it’s time we crushed this problem down to size.” And he began to slowly put pressure on the ship. It was a lot stronger than it looked, but Professor Brain was very worried “Outside Pressure increasing. We won’t last much longer!”

Grand Ruler leapt out of his seat and joined Lightning at the hatch and blasted Discord with the uniforce himself. His force combined with Lightning added more power, but still just not quite enough. “We’re almost out!” cried Brain “We just need a little more thrust!” but Grand Ruler and Lightning were already giving it all they had. They could give no more.

Most of the others couldn’t leave their posts, and their attacks wouldn’t give them the thrust they needed. Discord continued to laugh. “I can’t remember the last time I had so much fun.” He mocked. He continued to laugh so much that Celestia was growing very annoyed. “No, I won’t let this happen!” she shouted and joined the men at the hatch, and blasted Discord herself, but even still it wasn’t quite enough.

“Really, Princess…?” Discord mocked “Can’t you do better than that!”

“Don’t give up!” shouted Grand Ruler, and he held out his hand for her hoof. She nodded and placed her hoof in his hand, and all at once, they both began to glow a mystical white light. “What’s happening?” asked Lightning. The others gazed in awe, and even Discord was shocked. “Hey! What’s going on?”

Their majesties couldn’t understand it themselves, but they both began to feel extremely powerful. “Discord…!” Grand Ruler snarled, “Release us at once!” added Celestia, and they both fired a combined burst for magic through their horns right at his face. The dragon roared in pain and released the ship as the magic seemed to cast all over his body, at the same time their majesties stopped glowing, while Discord fell down, down, down towards the burning surface below, landing with a huge crash!

The ponies quickly dashed back to their seats. “Dock the hatch and get us out of here!” shouted Grand Ruler.

“Yes sir!” cried Brain, and he fired the thrusters and the ship soared up, up, and out into space, as the planet began to flare and break up. “Hang on!” shouted Lightning.

The ship soared far out of range as the planet behind them glowed in a fiery blaze and exploded in one thunderous bang! The force of the explosion rocked the ship softly, and then all was quiet.

Everyone gazed out the back at the now empty section of space where the bright of the explosion was fading leaving only a cloud of dust.

“…My beautiful empire!” Grand Ruler sighed in the softest and deepest of heartache. He rested his head softly against the glass. Celestia comforted him.

A tear rolled down Starla’s cheek. “Our home.” she cried. Dyno and Myte held each other trying to be brave, but Lightning felt it the worst. He just lost his entire world for a second time! He clenched his fists struggling to get a hold of himself. At least Discord was destroyed, and they all still had a chance, but they still had a job to do.

“Set course for Equetsria.” Grand Ruler suddenly said “We’re going in!”

Nobody disagreed with that idea at all, and they went on their way. The ship would take an hour to reach its destination, but they would make it… if the planet was still there.

Meanwhile, Nightmare had been bashing the team against each other for a while now, and they were all looking very badly beat up, but all she did was laugh at them and slam them down hard on the ground. “I think that’s enough.” she said.

The gang was all bruised and their armors were dented and busted up. The Starfleet fighter’s suits had run out of energy and powered down. “Now… the question is who I shall destroy first?” Nightmare wondered aloud. She was so busy that she didn’t notice what was happening in her fortress, but Twilight could see it, though she gave no hints, and this gave her a little idea of her own.

Twilight’s friends were ready to spring their plan. Some of the others were just playing it cool and continuing to slave, while the rest were hiding behind a doorway. The only two guards in the chamber heard someone screaming for help and dashed to the doorway to see what was wrong, but as they crossed through the door, “Now!” shouted Rainbow as she and her friends pulled on their chains and raised them like tripping wires. The guards fell over and down the flight of stairs ahead of them and crashed at the bottom out cold.

“YE-HA!” cried Applejack “Like beatin’ a dead horse.” Now that the guards weren’t watching anymore, nothing could stop them leaving through the front door and head straight down to help the others, but they were still chained up and bound with irons. They still had no wings or powers. Only the Elements of Harmony would be able to break the spell, but Nightmare still had them on her, and Twilight was still out there, without her the elements wouldn’t work.

“There’s no way we can get down there like this.” cried Pinkie Pie “It’s no good! We’re done for. DONE FOR I TELL YA!” Rarity and Rainbow Dash tacked her to the ground to keep her from shouting too loud. “Keep it down, Pinkie!” snapped Rainbow.

Applejack already had an idea. “If we can’t get close to the elements, I’ll get them to us.” and before anyone asked how she intended to do that, she grabbed a long and loose chain that was on the floor in her teeth and began to whirl it like a lasso. The spell didn’t affect her natural strength and talents.

Nightmare, not realizing this at all, decided to wipe out all five of the fallen warriors at once, but right as she was about to do so. She felt the treasure-chest being ensnared and yanked off her. “What?!” she exclaimed as she saw the chest being pulled into the fortress by a chain. “No!” she cried, and that’s when Twilight, now out of Nightmare’s sights, saw her chance. She bolted upright and dashed inside the fortress to get to her friends quickly.

Suddenly, a bright flash of light shone through the windows, and Twilight and her friends all dashed outside, out of their chains, with their wings and magic, and each wearing their respective element of harmony. “What’s the matter Nightmare?” mocked Twilight “Are we breaking the rules?”

Nightmare growled angrily. “You cursed twits!”

Luna, and the Starfleet fighters were impressed, and Rhymey, though still a little weak and sore, looked up and saw Fluttershy. She gazed back at him and smiled warmly. Then she gazed back angrily at Nightmare who was glaring at them all angrily.

Things were about to get far more intense.

The ship was soon nearing its destination, but still, everyone was contemplating the events that happened between their majesties. “I’ve never known such power.” cried Celestia “It was almost frightening.”

Grand Ruler couldn’t understand it either. “It happened when we touched each other.” He said and softy held her hoof in his hand again, but they felt nothing. It was so strange.

Still, everyone had to strap down for landing. “Steady on.” said Brain as he skillfully steered the ship. “We’re almost there.” said Lightning “I hope everyone’s okay.”

“So do I.” agreed Starla.

Grand Ruler pounded his hand wish his fist “Do what you all can to help the others, but remember… Nightmare Moon is mine! I have an old score to settle with her! She killed my parents! She threw me out into space! She's endangered our friends and ways of life, and now... she will pay!"

Celestia couldn’t wait to see Nightmare Moon get her well deserved comeuppance as well.

Nightmare was still glaring at her enemies, but her anger slowly turned into evil laughter. “What is she laughing about now? Seriously, it’s driving me crazy!” snapped Spike

“I guess I should commend you for being able to outsmart my newest spells.” said Nightmare “But you haven’t won anything, not yet!” That’s when she whistled loud and summoned a large portion of her vast armada of shadowbolts, as well as Titan’s minions, who had long since returned from Unicornicopia, dropped down by her side.

“Oh, boy!” cried Buddy Rose. The others didn’t know what to do or say. There was no way they could fight off such an armada. Rep-Stallion licked the blade of his scythe “Oh, this is going to feel so good!” he chuckled.

“Mm… I’ve waited long for this.” hissed Dementia.

“Prepare for your doom!” added Mysterious

As the vast fleet began to power up and read to fire and all the teammates exchanged goodbyes and such, Nightmare was struck hard by a powerful ray of magic. “What?!” she growled as she turned round and saw more powerful waves wiping out a large portion of her fleet. Then she saw the cause of it…

“Hey!” Lightning shouted!

The Starfleet fighters, and Twilight and friends were overjoyed to see all their friends, and the princess safe had made it to the planet but the minions were shocked out of their minds, but Nightmare was the most surprised when she saw Grand Ruler step forward and glaring at her angrily!

“…You!!”

“Celesto?! It cannot be!” cried Nightmare “I banished you into space. You should have perished!”

“You will soon be wishing I HAD!!” and he shot at her hard again before lunging at her, roaring like a beast, and began to mercilessly attack her and fending off her attacks against him. It was almost too frightening to watch. “…Now’s our chance.” Lightning said as Starla and the Twins stood by his side, all of them holding the star stones, and they were rejoined by Buddy Rose Artie and Rhymey. The used the stones to reenergize themselves, and heal Princess Luna and Twilight, and also super energized the Elements of Harmony, causing them to glow and shimmer the brightest ever.

“Let’s do it!” said Lightning, and they all transformed.

“STARFLEET MAGIC!!”

Twilight’s friends gazed in awe. “Incredible.” said Rarity.

“Too cool!” added Rainbow.

Lightning and his friends stood together brave and tall, and Lightning recited the official Starfleet oath of honor.

“Guardians of the universe,
United we stand
To punish all evil,
And protect what is grand!”

Lightning: “Power of Believing!”

Starla: “Power of Space!”

Buddy Rose: “Power of Flora!”

Artie: “Power of Art!”

Rhymey: “I summon within… Power of Wind!”

Dyno & Myte: “Power of Fire!”

Titan’s minions were livid and promised this would be absolute, totally final fight for them all. “You’re only half right!” Lightning said “It’s going to be the final fight… for you guys!”

The minions didn’t notice Twilight and her friends were sneaking up from behind them with the Elements of Harmony at the ready. They waited, and waited. “NOW, TWILIGHT!!” shouted Lightning. The minions turned round just in time as Twilight and friends blasted them hard, ensnaring the minions in magical bindings that damaged them severely. “It’s working!” cried Twilight.

“Right, our turn…” Lightning said as he, and some of his friends held up the four star stones. “Mysterious, Rep-Stallion, Dementia... THIS IS GOODBYE!! Lightning shouted “FULL POWER!!” and the star stones unleashed another powerful magical wave.

The minions could feel the three forces of the elements the princesses and the star stones begin to pierce through their bodies and destroying the magic within them. “The magic…!” shouted Mysterious. “No! We can’t lose it…!” cried Rep-Stallion “Without the magic… we’ll… WE’LL--” before Dementia could finish, the power forces had ceased. The minions just stood where they were, and without the magic to keep their bodies whole and stable, they all disintegrated into three little piles of ash, as what they were made of.

Rarity almost felt like passing out, not just in astonishment but near heart-struck that she and her friends had just took the life from three creatures, but Lightning reminded them that they did the right thing. “Besides…” Professor Brain interjected “They were made of corpses and graveyard ashes, and had no hearts or actual souls. They were merely artificial beings cursed with magic for life-force. So technically, we’re they really all that much…er… alive to consider?”

Twilight and friends understood, and knew it was right to finish them off.

Suddenly, they heard a loud explosion and turned their attention to Nightmare who was still suffering such harsh and cruel beatings from Grand Ruler. Finally, after a hard kick to her chest, and crashing to the ground. Nightmare realized “I need more power!” and she stood up tall and summoned all the remaining shadowbolts of her massive fleet and cast them back into her body to increase her strength, as well as expand her body in size. She as at least three times the size of Grand Ruler.

He couldn’t believe this, and Nightmare bashed him hard with her fist sending him crashing right through three stone-walls, shattering them all to rubble. “Master!” cried Lightning as he and all the others dashed to his side. Twilight’s friends felt awed being in the presence of a real tri-horned alicorn. Twilight assured them he was on their side.

“Are you alright?” Celestia asked. Grand Ruler felt woozy. “She’s more powerful than ever now, but I’m sure we just about finish her off together!”

The giant Nightmare stomped her way towards the team shouting “Now you will all perish!”

“That’s what you think!” Lightning snarled as he stepped at the front of the team. Twilight stepped up as well. “You won’t stand against all we’ve set up against you, Nightmare Moon!”

The others all agreed and scattered about completely surrounding her form all ends, and then used the power of the elements and the star stones to summon magical streams that grabbed the evil demon and held her down to hold her down. She struggled and thrashed about trying to break free, but she couldn’t, and her magic didn’t work either. “What is this magic?! “Release me!!”

The others struggled to hold her down. It was time to put an end to Nightmare’s evil forever. “Is everyone ready?” Grand Ruler asked. Everyone nodded they all charged up every last ounce of power they had in them, the star stones, and the elements, and blasted the evil demon from all directions. Nightmare screeched the loudest and most painful screech every as her body began to flare up and vaporize.

Luna was especially delighted to be a part of this moment-- to vanquish her evil side forever! “THOU SHALT NOT RETURN AGAIN!!” Luna called out Nightmare’s glowing body, rose up into the skies. Grand Ruler powered up his energy for one final attack. “So long, Nightmare!” he shouted as he fired.

Nightmare gasped as the large blast came at her. “G’ah…?! NOOOOOO!!” she screamed as the blast hit her, and she vanished in a large explosion, and with her destruction all the magic chains vanished. The slaves were all free, and the prisoners were all released. The wings, horns and magic returned as well.

Everyone leapt for joy and cheered over their win, but the planet still shook violently, and the red stormy skies grew black with even more darkness.

“Oh, no…! What now?” cried Twilight. Nobody knew what was coming, until those two large red eyes appeared in the darkened area of the skies followed by a sinister laughter, and a voice hissing “I have returned!”

To Be Continued…!

(Promo)

In our final episode, the ponies are in for the greatest shock to realize that Titan has returned, more powerful than ever, and quickly turn the tables on everyone, reducing their hopes and resources to dust. To make matters worse, he absorbs the powers of Grand Ruler and Celestia and becomes more powerful than before-- strong enough to put the entire dimensional universe in grave jeopardy.

How can the friends save themselves out of this one, and how can they possibly hope to stand up to Titan now?

Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic!”

(Next Episode: “Final Part: What Believing Means”)

Final episode: Final Part: What Believing Means

“Previously on Starfleet Magic!”

The team on Equestria managed to get through the Rhymey, breaking Nightmare’s control, only to once again end up being bashed and beaten around. Meanwhile, having survived the collapse of Rainbow City, the others escaped to Professor Brain’s laboratory to board his newly completed rocket and escape to safety, just with their lives as Unicornicopia exploded in a blazing ball of fire, taking Discord with it. After reunited with their comrades, the two teams pulled together and destroyed Titan’s minions for good and Nightmare Moon’s demise soon followed releasing all the captive slaves. However, it would seem the danger has not yet passed as those mysterious eyes are about to reveal more.

FINAL EPISODE

All the Equestrians were free from their chains, but all were just gazing up at those large eyes in the sky. Some of the children were hiding behind their elders trembling and crying with fear.

“Who are you?” asked Celestia.

The voice behind the eyes explained, “I am the one who has been observing you all for some time now-- Watching you all as you took on all those evil creatures that came your way, and boldly revealing every last bit of your magical secrets and resources. Now I have all that I require in order to wipe you all out of existence along with your precious planet as well.”

Lightning gasped “That… that voice! I didn’t want to believe it…!” he said. His eyes narrowed, and he clenched his fists tightly,

“...TITAN!!”

The space ponies and Grand Ruler gasped in horrific shock.

“Titan?!” cried Starla

“It can’t be!” added Buddy Rose.

“We all defeated you, way back on Unicornicopia.” snarled Artie.

Titan laughed in the darkness. “Yes you did, but you should be aware by now that I am not so easy to get rid of.” His sinister eyes glowed brightly and he showed everyone what really happened!

It was never actually Titan’s true intention to win that time on Unicornicopia, as he was already well-prepared for the unlikely event if he would be defeated.

When Starfleet had nearly destroyed him, Titan reached into his back and pulled out a small blob from within his body, a special one filled with enough strength and energy, just about everything that was him channeled into it that would one day allow Titan to be reborn, body, power, and all!

The blob was cast out into Dimensional Space and wasn’t affected by the teleportation magic. For all that time Titan spent gathering more strength and power, while at the same time, observing his enemies so that he could effectively destroy them by learning their every magic technique, and learn how to overpower it. Even if it meant using Nightmare, Discord, or even his own minions as disposable tools to gain the information he required.

“You sent Discord to attack us?!” snarled Lightning. “He blew up our home world!”

Half the team was shocked to hear.

“Unicornicopia's... gone?!” cried Buddy Rose.

Rhymey glared up angrily at Titan’s eyes

“Of all the evil tricks and things you’ve done,
This is by far the very last one!”

The Equestrian ponies felt their fears mixing with their anger and outrage coursing through them. “I never knew someone that could exist could be so heartless!” cried Pinkie “So… evil!”

Titan laughed and said. “Well, sad to say it is. My minions knew from the day they were created, that they were tools and respected that! So did the demon Discord, when I sent him to Unicornicopia, and though Discord didn’t make it, the fact remains that Unicornicopia is gone, and Equestria is doomed to explode anyway. You see how much your little friendship and goodness did you? Friendship and love are nothing but a farce! A lie! Good for nothing acts of stupidity used to manipulate weaklings such as yourselves.”

“Wow! He’s got some grudge.” Spike whispered. Twilight and friends nodded. The fact that someone would hate friendship and love this much and planned to wipe out all creatures who felt it really turned their stomachs!

Titan went on to explain that he had made a most fascinating discovery while he was away. He cast his gaze on Grand Ruler. “Celesto! That is your name? You have always wondered the secrets of your birth-- why you were born with three horns, golden wings, and yet you never got an answer?”

Grand Ruler looked confused “Yes!” he said “But what does this have to do with anything?”

Titan sniggered and decided to reveal to everyone the secret which he had learned long ago when originally selling himself to the dark side for his powers. The prophecies had for told of one extremely rare and special creature that would one day come to possess extraordinary powers and knowledge form forces unlike anything before. This creature would bear the physical appearance of three golden horns, golden wings, and born to an ordinary couple. “That is you, Celesto. You are a chosen child of the gods!”

Grand Ruler could hardly believe what he was hearing, and neither could any the others “Grand Ruler…” said Lightning. “Celesto?!” cried Celestia, but her love just stood there feeling heart-struck. “I’m a… child of the gods?!” he exclaimed. “That explains everything. My ability to master spells quickly, creating so many things.”

He then turned to Celestia and thought to when they blasted Discord before escaping Unicornicopia. Neither of them said anything, but Titan snickered and said “Yes… the two of you combined began to unleash you full and complete powers, for you, Celestia, you also are chosen by the gods. It is no coincidence the two of you met. It was hoped for and almost played out perfectly like pieces on a chessboard.”

Their majesties didn’t know it was possible to ever feel so shocking, but all the other ponies didn’t know what they were feeling. This was just too incredible!

“Fortunately, your complete powers have yet to be awakened, and I could never allow you to gain such power, not at the risk of you ever becoming stronger than I.” hissed Titan. His glowing eyes vanished, and he fully appeared in his old bodily form, but he was now gigantic, even larger than Nightmare was when she was gigantic. His monstrous hands alone were as large as the whole group standing together. He laughed maliciously. “I could never have asked for a better opportunity.”

Grand Ruler although still shocked by this revelation, clenches his fists and glared up angrily. “Titan, I swear, even if my true power hasn’t been awakened, so help me I will stop you!”

“So shall I.” added Celestia. “I’ll never let such a vile creature like you spread hatred and chaos on the universe!” Everyone else stood tall and proud, but suddenly they realized that the elements of harmony, and the star stones were gone. “Where did they go?” asked Artie.

“Look…!” cried Fluttershy. Everyone gazed up and saw Titan had them in his giant hand. “Oh! Are these yours?” he asked mockingly as he did the unthinkable-- He clenched his hand tight and actually crushed the treasures into dust. Their magical energies flared out in soft explosions and were gone.

Everyone gasped in the deepest shock of horror. “He…. He did it!” cried Twilight. “He actually destroyed them!”

“I cannot believe he has that much power.” said Luna

“We’re doomed! All is lost!!” cried Rarity.

“A little sample of what’s in store for ALL OF YOU!” Titan shouted as he grabbed Grand Ruler and Celestia in his hands. “No!!” cried Lightning and Twilight.

“Put us down!” demanded Grand Ruler.

“Put us down this instant!” growled Celestia.

Titan’s eyes glowed. “As you wish!” and the inside of his hood began to glow mysteriously like a swirling vortex and he hastily threw them inside and they were gone.

Twilight and Lightning were devastated along with everyone else. “No! They… they can’t be…!” cried Lightning.

Titan explained that they weren’t dead, not yet. “They have merely been infused inside of my very magical essence.”

“They’re inside of you…?” asked Applejack.

“YES!!” Titan bellowed “And every second they remain inside of me, their energies and magic are being infused into me. Soon they will be no more, and finally, and with them out of my way, nothing will stop me from destroying this universe and remaking it in my own image! All over there will be fighting, and darkness beyond imagination and with no friendship and love to ever combat it.”

Everyone’s anger began to peak, and they didn’t care if he was giant or not. “GET HIM!!” Lightning shouted, and everyone fired their best attacks, but it was no good. They had used up a lot of their powers fighting Nightmare and her forces, and even so, their biggest attacks were only the size of insects compared to Titan’s enormous size. He felt nothing but slight amusement. He then raised his huge hands. “Everyone, watch out…!” cried Lightning and everyone dashed out of the way as Titan shouted “…UNIFORCE!!” and actually fired it, drained from Grand Ruler and powered it further by Celestia inside of him. Such a large and powerful energy blast flew straight through the crust of the planet, causing another violent earthquake. This reminded everyone that the planet was due to explode in a short time.

“You’re fate is now sealed, ponies!” roared Titan “You’ll either die at my hands, or go up with the planet. It doesn’t matter, and if any of you are thinking that I will be going down with you, think again! It will take far more than a planetary explosion to get rid of me and the power I possess!”

All hope now seemed completely lost for everyone, but Lightning, clenched his fists in determination. “No! I won’t let this happen!” and he began to charge straight for Titan. “Lightning!” screamed Starla “Are you crazy!” shouted Dyno. “Come back!” called Fluttershy.

“He’ll be beaten…!
Or worse, eaten!” cried Rhymey

Despite calls and protests from the others, Lightning refused to head back, and continued to charge, much to Titan’s annoyance. “Pitiful fool!” he fired a ray of energy from his eyes nearly hitting Lightning and creating such and explosion that it threw him back, but he just got back up and tried again. Titan blasted at him again, and again. “What’s he doing?” asked Twilight “How can he just keep getting up like that?”

All anyone could figure was that Lightning was determined to get at Titan, despite all the odds being horribly stacked against them; he wasn’t willing to give up! He wasn’t going to let his master or the princess be threatened by any oversized demon sorcerer.

“I’ll… get them out… somehow!”

Titan had had quite enough of this foolishness, and prepared to blast Lightning to bits, but as soon as he fired his blasts headed right for him, two large portals appeared, one absorbed the blast and sent it back out through the other straight at Titan, hitting him hard!

“Huh?” wondered Lightning, and that’s when he saw Krysta, Topaz and an army of their fairies burst through a third portal. “Sorry we’re late. Guess our invitation was lost.” Krysta teased.

Lightning smiled at her, then the fairies scattered about creating portals to the planet Sharma. “Hear me all of you.” said Topaz “Your planet is about to explode. There is nothing we can do to stop that, but your lives are more important. Do exactly as we say and there will be a chance for you.”

With no possible way to argue and Titan still stunned, everyone dashed into the portals in many long lineups. “Come on! Move! Move! Move!” shouted Krysta. Professor Brain evacuated along with the rest of them. Soon they were all safe and sound on Sharma along with space ponies. “Thank goodness, we’ve made it!” cried Cadance. “But wait… about the others.” asked Shining Armor. “Twily…!”

All the fairies came through the portals, with the exception of Krysta as she stayed behind to help out in the battle. “Krystalline, please be careful!” Topaz cried under his breath.

Krysta ushered everyone huddled in close to her. She knew Grand Ruler and Celestia were inside “You’ll all have to go in there and get them out. I can get you in, but after that you’re on your own.”

The others were at first skeptical of actually going inside Titan, not knowing what sort of dangers they would run into, but if it meant saving their majesties, they had no choice. Even Fluttershy agreed to do it, even though she had never been more scared in her life.

“Do it, Krysta.” Lightning said. Krysta nodded and formed one portal near everyone, and the second directly near Titan’s head over his hood. “Go, now!” she shouted, and she and everyone else jumped through. They popped out through the other portal and could feel themselves being pulled in by strong winds that were Titan’s breathing, and all fell into the blackness of his hood and into that vortex.

Inside of Titan was nothing what anyone had expected. It was like being a dark realm of dark swirling colors and lights. Spike felt himself getting queasy, and his cheeks turned green. “Oh! I think I’m going to hurl!” he groaned. Twilight lifted him onto her back.

Pinkie Pie kept spinning in circles following the flow of lights. “Gee… what pretty colors.” she said before falling down in dizziness.

“Yeah, yeah, it’s breathtakin’, but what in tarnation are we supposed to do now?” asked Applejack.

“We must find Celestia and Celesto.” said Luna “We cannot allow Titan to absorb their energies any longer or they will perish for certain.”

“Obviously, but where in the universe do we start looking?” asked Starla. All ways round they couldn’t tell which way was up or down, or anywhere round, and the swirling dark colors and lights made it harder to tell. “Oh boy!” groaned Spike as he felt his stomach gurgling, and in his dizziness, he thought he could see something up ahead. “Is that…?” He shook himself awake and looked up ahead. “Look over there!”

Everyone could see Grand Ruler and Celestia being held by magical chains, like tentacles, and they just remained where they were, not moving or making a sound. They both looked pretty weak and pale.

“Princess!” cried Twilight as she ran to her mentor’s side “Princess Celestia! It’s me, Twilight. Wake up, please!”

Lightning walked over to his master “Grand Ruler! Don’t let Titan do this to you.”

Their majesties looked as if they hadn’t heard a thing, and Titan’s voice could be heard as his huge eyes actually appeared in the darkness above them. “Go ahead. Waste your tears over those soon-to-be no more fools.”

Twilight roared angrily and fired a magical beam at the eyes, but her blast only went through them. “It’s just an illusion.” said Dyno. “Try not to let him get to you.” added Myte.

It was so hard for the others not to, and with their majesties getting weaker, and Titan getting stronger; his constant taunting seemed to have quite an effect. “Your precious rulers have given up on all of you. The friendship, harmony, and believing have failed them just as they have failed all of you. They know the end is coming. They’ve abandoned you and surrendered to me!”

A lot of the others, felt hurt. Twilight even had tears in her eyes for actually letting Titan get to her. His evil laugh made her sag down on her bottom. “No!” she cried “The princess would never do this.”

“You monster!” roared Luna “Cease filling our heads with these lies!”

“We’ve got to keep trying!” said Lightning. Everyone tried as hard as they could to break the tentacles holding their leaders, but they were so incredibly strong and didn’t budge an inch. “Master, please listen, I know you can hear me. I’m not giving up!” His master still didn’t move or even open his eyes, and neither did Celestia. “Twilight, help out! Just talk to the princess.”

Twilight didn’t understand at first, but figured it worth a try. “Princess Celestia, I’m here. We’re all here.” The two students did their best to wake their mentors-- telling them that they were both strong creatures who taught them both well, and one thing Twilight and Lightning learned was never to give up. Everyone on the entire Dimensional Universe was now depending on them and all their subjects. “Believe in us!” cried Twilight.

“Believe in them!” said Lightning.

A small groan escape from Grand Ruler’s throat, and he opened his eyes, “I… do believe!” he said. “Me… too…!” cried Celestia as she awoke. Both their thoughts and hearts became so strong that Grand Ruler’s three horns began to glow and shimmer brighter than ever.

“What’s this?!” Titan’s voice growled “It cannot be!”

Grand Ruler was beginning to unlock his secret hidden powers, and Celestia was both strengthening them and feeling them course through her as well. The two of them glowed brightly, and in a bright flash of light they broke free from bondage.

“Celestia…!” Grand Ruler said. “You, your subjects and mine have helped me to unlock my true power, and I wish to share it with you and all the others. Will you lend me your cooperation in vanquishing this great evil for all time?”

Celestia gazed at him tenderly. “Yes, Celesto, I will help you!”

The brightness of the glowing increased and everyone suddenly felt themselves being teleported.

Titan felt really strange inside. “This can’t be happening!” he growled as the heroes emerged through his hood in beams of light. “We’re out!” cried Rarity.

(0:57)

Buddy Rose looked up in the sky and gasped, “Look!”

Everyone gazed up and saw Grand Ruler and Celestia, still glow and spinning round and around and suddenly they collided into one another resulting in the brightest flash ever. Everyone had to block their eyes from the light, and when they looked again, what the saw next left them beyond words--

(1:40)

A giant humanoid creature with pointed ears with long golden hair and four golden horns on its head. It had gold and silver armor. Four long white wings like an angel. It wore a skirt with the colors of Celestia’s mane and tail, and a cape as red as Grand Ruler’s. The rainbow rod even left Lightning’s possession and dashed up to the creature, transforming into a long and powerful scepter.

Everyone was so fascinated by this creature. Part Princess Celestia, and part Grand Ruler. They had magically merged together become a creature known as "...GRAND CELESTIAL RULER!!”

Their voice was both Grand Ruler and Celestia’s at the same time, and sounded very powerful.

They then cast an angry glare at Titan. “In the name of every creature you have harmed. Every world you have infected and destroyed-- Your time to answer is now!”

Titan growled with his fists clenched. “You forget!” he sneered “I still hold enough of your absorbed powers… AND I CAN STILL FIGHT YOU!!” His shout echoed as he leapt up into the air, ready to fight, and The Ruler stood ready.

He missed his first punch and The Ruler blasted him hard with powerful magic, but then Titan managed to flip around and blast right back. The two forces seemed equal in every possible way and continued to fight to what seemed like an endless brawl and it looked like anyone’s win, but as they continued, the planet rocked with more earthquakes, and it didn’t stop but joust got more and more violent every second as the crust began to crack. “The planet, it’s going to blow!” cried Krysta. “We’ve got to get out here, now!”

“No!” snapped Lightning “We can’t just go! We’ve got to try and help somehow.”

“But how…?” asked Fluttershy “The elements of harmony are gone.”

“So are the star stones.” added Artie “We don’t stand a chance without them.”

Lightning felt himself about to really lose his temper. “What’s with all of you?!” he shouted. Everyone gazed at him like he was a big bully gazing down at a helpless foal. “You’re all missing the whole point of how we got this far. We don’t need any treasures or weapons to fight. We’ve had the real magic inside us all the time. Don’t you all get it; all we have to do is believe.”

Naturally everyone caught to what he was referring to-- when he or the Grand Ruler ever said “Believe and have faith.” what it really meant was “Never give up, not even when it seems hopeless!” It was this faith and power alone that helped them get this far through all adversities. “Why should we let it stop now?” Lightning said sincerely.

Everyone felt that Lightning was right.

Princess Luna stood tall and proud, remembering she was powerful enough and she never even had an element of harmony.

Twilight remembered all the spells she learned to master on her own as well. Her friends and Lightning all began to feel the same. They had to have faith and trust in believing. That’s when everyone began to glow and felt the magic running through them. “Wow! This feels so… so…” Pinkie just couldn’t find the words.

“I feel like I could circle the whole universe.” cried Rainbow Dash.

“I feel the power…
Like I could crush a tower.” said Rhymey.

Lightning smiled at everyone, and then they all turned to gaze at the two warring ones in the sky. Titan took a big swing at The Ruler, but missed, and allowed The Ruler to strike him hard with the scepter, forcing him back hard.

“It is time!” said The Ruler as they held the scepter high, and it began to glow with the most mystical glow ever. The Ruler recited a magical chant…

“Cosmic powers, hear our call
Come forth now, and make evil fall
Nevermore will darkness reign,
Let peace and harmony replace the pain
Now let be finished what has begun
And through the darkness shall light now run
Let hope shimmer and burden so bright…
I summon forth the… MYSTIC LIGHT…!!!”

The scepter glowed brighter and brighter as the most powerful of magical light began to pulsate from it. The Ruler whirled the scepter round and around many times, poised it at Titan, and fired the biggest energy force straight at him.

“No!! I won’t let you!” roared Titan as he stuck out his huge hands and held the force back with his own strength preventing it from going any further. It was totally unbelievable, all that power and Titan was still managing to stay strong, much to The Ruler’s outrage and shock, but it kept on firing the beam, but it didn’t move at all.

Titan also laughed hard and maliciously “Even you if you defeat me now, I returned once before, AND I SHALL CONTINUE TO LIVE ON, FOREVER!!” He was hinting that he would only perform the same trick he did last time, and was quite confident that he would survive.

“Wrong again, Titan!” called a voice from down below.

“Huh?!” Titan looked below and saw Lightning and Twilight standing on top of a rock pile. Both were glowing madly, and so were all their friends behind them, and in the sky, and Krysta and all her fairies had conjured the biggest portal anyone though imaginable which showed all the other Equestrians and Unicornicopians on Sharma. All were glowing, and showing their true powers by believing in themselves, their friends and loved ones, and especially, believing in faith of the power to destroy Titan for good!

“SO LONG, TITAN!!” shouted Lightning.

“From all of us!” added Twilight.

“No!!” shouted Titan as the army of creatures launched their power into a second extremely powerful beam that crashed right into him. Titan could feel his inner magical body beginning to break up. “THIS CAN’T BE HAPPENING!!” he shouted as he felt the two forces shoving him out into Dimensional Space, straight for the sun, and shouting his final words “CURSE YOU…! CURSE… YOU… ALL!!”

As he got closer to the sun, his body began to flare up, and whatever was left was completed disintegrated into the sun. He was gone, hopefully forever! Everyone cheered in such joy and a seemingly never-ending cry of victory, but the planet quaked worse than ever, and the ground began to burst wide open. “Everyone, quick!” cried Krysta “Into the portal!”

“Whoa!!” cried Spike as he was nearly engulfed by a fiery burst. “You don’t have to tell me twice.” Then he and everyone else hastily jumped through the portal, but Lightning and Twilight stopped when they realized The Ruler was just remained where they were hovering, not even moving. “Hey! Come with us!” called Twilight. The Ruler did not move, and just gazed at her and Lightning. “No! No! Don’t stay here!” shouted Lightning. The Ruler still did not move.

“Hurry you two!” cried Krysta.

“Not without them!” cried Twilight, but she and Lightning were soon dragged into the portal by their friends thanks to their super strengths. Krysta followed them, closing the portal behind her as the entire planet went up in a massive explosion, and just like Unicornicopia, was reduced to a cloud of dust in space.

The explosion was so massive, everyone on Sharma could see the bright light from space with their own eyes.

They were all just completely devastated, not just by the fact that Equestria was completely destroyed, but there was no sign of The Grand Celestial Ruler. Some began to cry, and others were so outraged and shocked they couldn’t speak.

Lightning fell to his knees and Twilight on her rump. Their heads drooped downward and tears of outrage and extreme pain coming to their eyes.

“Princess Celestia!” Twilight softly sobbed.

“Grand Ruler—Why, Why did you do that?” growled Lightning.

Just then, there was a bright flash of light, followed by a voice saying, “There is no need to grieve.” Everyone gazed up and saw The Ruler appear in the skies, alive and well.

“You’re alive!” cried Rarity.

“But… but how!” added Applejack.

“We are not as easy to get rid of. Especially considering what was had to stand for-- all of you. Thanks to your believing, your faiths, Titan and his evil demons are no longer a threat to any of us.”

Spike looked a little grim. “That may be, but what happens now?”

“We have no place to live now.” cried Fluttershy.

However, The Ruler assured them that not all was lost. “The cost of our ultimate victory has been staggering, but there is still hope for us, and all of you know what that way is.”

Everyone got the hint, but felt confused. “How can believing and faith help us this time?” asked Buddy Rose.

“Yeah, sure it gave us wicked magic, but how can it bring the worlds back?” added Rainbow.

Lightning and Twilight were the only ones to catch the drift. “If we believe hard enough, anything is possible.” said Lightning. “It can’t hurt to try.” added Twilight. Everyone began to share their belief, and soon everyone agreed to try.

Everyone decided to try and, and all at once made a full circle around the entire planet, joining hooves, and claws, hands or whatever it was together with The Ruler in the very center. They raised its scepter up and told everyone “Close your eyes, and look deep inside yourselves and concentrate all your believing.”

(1:00)

All at once, everyone did as they were told, and they all began to glow as their believing, their faith, everything pure that they could feel flowed from their bodies in small beams of soft light that slowly moved towards the tip of The Ruler’s scepter, and two mystical beams shot out towards the dust-clouds of the remains of the two planets.

The two clouds soared across space, colliding into one another, and in the most amazing magical astonishment, they had formed into a brand new world, a combination of the two! All the lakes, plains, meadows, forests, valleys, cites, and mountains. It was all coming back, and what was more, everyone on the planet were magically teleported to the new world, and all the Equestrian ponies appeared as humanoid, like the space alicorns.

(1:50)

“This incredible!” cried Twilight.

“Well I’ll be gal ‘darned.” added Applejack.

“Too cool” cried Rainbow.

Pinkie bounced for joy and Fluttershy merely went “Yay.”

Rarity awed at her new outfit. She and all her friends were now wearing normal suits like Lightning wore-- boots, gloves, pants, and armor vests, only their s had pictures of their respective cutie marks on them.

Finally, in a final flash, the entire planet was complete, and The Ruler had faded away, transformed back into Grand Ruler and Celestia. Celestia had also turned humanoid, and she now wore a beautiful light golden gown with a white top showing her cutie mark of the sun on the front.

The two stood tall and proud as they looked out on all their friends and subjects and smiled proudly. “Look at it.” Celestia said “It’s perfect ending.”

“No…” Grand Ruler corrected her. “...It’s perfect beginning.” The beginning of a new world, a new life for everyone, and like all new worlds it was given a name everyone agreed to.

Weclome to... United Equestria!

Epilogue

EPILOGUE

United Equestria was, as said, a combination of the old and new-- the two worlds and what they once were. The planet was a little bit wider though and all the cities, countries; villages were all much larger than ever. Each one had its own respective Equestrian name, only all now have the word “New” added to them.

New Ponyville.

New Canterlot.

New Crystal Empire.

…It was all new, and most everyone of Equestria of old thought it more than okay for the space ponies to live together with them, and vice versa. After all, they were all ponies, especially considering the Equestrians were now humanoid like the space ponies, although it took them a bit to get used to their new bodies, but above all things was their owing of thanks to one another for helping out and saving each other in the war.

Buddy Rose moved to New Sweet Apple Acres as hired help on Applejack’s land, but he did have his own house aside from hers. His gardening skills were very useful, and he was a big help during apple-buck season seeing as the fields were wider and had more trees than ever. His Leaf Swarm managed to knock of whole bushels of apples off loads of trees at once, reducing work-time by a large percent.

Most of the others lived in New Ponyville.

Lightning lived just down the road from Twilight’s place, and would often visit her to continue his studies. They were practically classmates as they shared apprenticeships with their royal majesties, but the two of them were bound to become the best of pony friends with many common interests.

Starla’s house was on the same block, and she had a special observatory made in the attic so she could continue her astronomy. Now that the planet was brand new and in a new location, she had tons to explore and report, and part-time teach to others at the Starfleet Academy.

Artie had opened his newest art studio, and was harder at work painting, sculpting, and making finer works of arts to bring to his new gala for everyone to enjoy. Rarity was a frequent visitor and enjoyed seeing all his works as it helped her come up with new fashion ideas.

Rhymey opened up his new café, and he still wrote poems and songs, and was a big hit at the New Ponyville poetry club, and other times he spent visiting and helping Fluttershy. Rhymey even wrote special poems about her and only for her hear. There was defiantly a strong bond coming between them, and they decided to officially start dating.

The Spanish twins shared a home, but still worked in mines, caves, and also became part-time construction workers and movers.

Still others lived in different places…

Professor Brain now lived in New Canterlot, in the royal palace. He was dubbed the new royal scientific advisor to their majesties, and whenever he wasn’t working in his lab all day, he would be teaching at colleges, or out on experimental expeditions around the planet.

Cookie Dough moved away to New Horn Kong and opened a new restaurant where his cooking became one of the marvels of all master chefs in the region. He still wrote to his friends every now and then, but it was seldom they saw each other

Abra Kadabra was still a world-class magician, and also became one of Trixie’s biggest rivals now, though everyone seemed to prefer Abra to Trixie because he was nicer, and more polite in contrast to Trixie’s big mouthed bragging and showing off. This often resulted in them having magical contests to see who was better than whom, yet they both seemed to be equally as good as the other.

Inquerious retired and settled down to enjoy a peaceful and blissful life, though she still saw her old friends once in a while.

Spike and Krysta would often amuse themselves by playing cards, chess, or checkers, Spike didn’t seem to have knack for playing against a fairy though. “Ha!” he would remark “I have three queens. What do you have?”

“Four kings.” Krysta would simply say. “Not again!” Spike would groan. “She does this every time.”

Krysta would giggle.

Starfleet would continue to watch over the planet, and some Equetsrians even thought of joining the force, including Twilight and friends. The events that had occurred during the war had completely opened their eyes. There were whole races of creatures living out in dimensional space. Some were bad, and some were good. Some to help, and some to fight! They barely managed to all escape the last ordeals, now they all wanted to be ready for any new ones that were likely to come round. They wanted to fight to protect their world, and essentially other worlds. Twilight especially wanted to train hard, not only to learn to become stronger, but also to hopefully one day get her wings back.

Even still, Twilight and her friends were awarded special medals of honour for bravery and assistance in the great wars, and because of their eagerness and willing to be trained to become full-fledge fighters, they were dubbed as honorary Starfleet members. Shining Armor was very proud of his sister. “Way to go Twily.” he said giving her a playful noogie, and Cadance pecked her sister-in-law on the cheek. “We’re so proud of you.”

And Lightning and friends, they received huge honors and promotions as well. Lightning was now promoted to Captain, and all his friends were now Senior Lieutenants, and every one of them were dubbed as some of Starfleet’s finest personal, which was really a pride and respective honor seeing as they had all only been on the force for a year.

Finally, there was one last thing to do before the celebrating could really commence. The Grand Ruler and Celestia were finally married in the grandest, most glamorous royal wedding of all. Not only was it the very first wedding of United Equestria, but the joining of the two rulers and finally fulfilling their deepest desire of one-thousand years after being separated.

They really deserved it after all they had been through. Pinkie and Rarity couldn’t stop blubbering though Rarity seemed to be blubbering more over the beautiful wedding outfits that she had designed.

Durring the ceremony, the bride and groom had written they own special vows which they expressed to each other by song.

(0:40 to 4:52)

With this marriage, Celestia was crowned queen of the entire planet, and while Grand Ruler Celesto was the king, he preferred to retain his own title, but he no longer minded to being addressed by his name anymore. Celestia also was dubbed Co-Commander of Starfleet, second to her husband, but Grand Ruler promised that though he would make final decisions, he would make them based on suggestions and consulting from his wife and others as always.

A Grand Galloping Gala was held immediately that very night, to celebrate everything. After over a-thousand years, their dream had come true. It was one of the most magical things that everyone would cherish forever.

Luna was very happy too to have Celesto as a brother-in-law, and he was happy to have her as a sister-in-law too. He never had siblings before, and it felt very wonderful. Both he and Celestia agreed to co-rule United Equestria with Luna, in a three-way rule. Celesto had also gained two Nieces, Twilight and Cadance, and Shining Armor as a fine nephew. Finally, he had a legitimate family of his own again.

At the ball, everyone feasted like they were all royalty, and they all danced and sang and had a most magical evening. Celestia and Celesto even shared their first dance as a married couple to the same song they sang years ago the first time they danced. “Magical you”

Soon everyone was dancing with someone. Fluttershy found dancing with her new body to be more graceful, especially when Rhymey tenderly dipped her back.

Rarity even danced with Spike. “You’re so graceful, Spike.” She complimented. “Aw, go on!” Spike said.

While outside on a Terrace, Starla was gazing out at the stars when Lightning came and extended his hand to her. “May have this dance?” he asked nervously yet tenderly. She accepted, and they danced right there on the terrace under the moonlight and stars.

“Starla?” he asked her near the end of the dance.

“Yeah...?”

They were gazing deeply into each other’s eyes. “I… I’ve wanted to ask you… something special for a long time, but I… well… I just…I--” Starla just closed her eyes and softly leaned forward with her lips softly pursed. Lightning hesitated at first, but finally moved in closer gently pressing his lips against hers.

A lot of the ponies could see them from the ballroom, even Celestia and Celesto. They all smiled. “Way to go, Lightning.” Krysta said to herself. “I knew you could do it.”

And so ended one grand adventure, but began the beginning of a new era for all!

MY BRAVE PONY
“Starfleet Magic”

(1:15)

Author's Note

There it is... it's NOT magic is believing, and it hasn't been for years.

Get with the new times!

Prologue: How it all Began

Author's Note

Let's get a couple things straight

1: This ISN'T Magic is believing (I have told people numerous times to get off that kick. That story has since been re-written and revised into THIS, but if you refuse to understand and accept that (and prefer to continue mocking and being rude) that's not my problem, it's yours

2: Yeah, I know, it's gonna get mostly down-voted deliberately by mockers, haters, and flamers who prefer to be rude and conceited (Just down-vote it like that BECAUSE I MADE IT, without even looking at it and saying it automatically sucks)

...Well, doesn't stop me form post it, or at least a FEW people liking it.

3: This is MY fanfic, and MY world, so when you read under MY roof, you read things by MY rules and MY preferences.

Prologue: How it all Began

PROLOGUE/INTRO

the story began to be told as pictures on a very large and old tapestry went by, depicting how it all happened...

Far off in the distant reaches of the dimensional universe, is the magical world of Unicornicopia, home to a race of genetically altered humanoid-shaped ponies known as the Space Alicorns. All were under the watchful eye of their leader-- The Tri Horned Alicorn, who unlike most unicorns had three horns instead of one. All of which were gold colored, but even he himself did not know the reasons of this astonishing phenomenon that was he.

Still, he kept a very watchful eye over his subjects.

Some of the alicorns lived in peace while others would train to become powerful warriors and join their Grand Ruler in his never-ending struggle against the forces of evil-- To become members of “Starfleet Magic!”

Trained well, and skilled with powerful weapons and magic-- Thanks to Starfleet and its warriors, the worlds had been protected from many evil forces…

However, there was one evil force that seemed almost too powerful for even Starfleet to handle-- A powerful hooded sorcerer who sought to destroy all that was good and decent, and rule the Dimensional Universe with hatred and chaos beyond imagination.

The sorcerer eventually attacked Unicornicopia. Starfleet tried to stave him off but proved to be nearly no match against such terrifying magic.

Fearing for the safety of his people and the Dimensional Universe, The Grand Ruler fought against the sorcerer and with the power of his golden horns, unleashed the mysterious magic of the uniforce and was able to render the sorcerer weak, but was not strong enough to effectively destroy him. So using the last of his available strength, The Grand Ruler sealed the sorcerer away on a distant dark planet, so that he might never again recover his power and threaten the worlds with his evil.

For one-thousand years, the threat was long forgotten and only remained in the memories of the past, but The Grand Ruler struggle against evil continued and Starfleet always would remain on guard for any new or recurring threats to ever rise

This story was passed down for centuries as detailed on the tapestry.

Lightning Dawn was a white humanoid alicorn with a short brown mane and a golden horn, but as he was genetically altered, more than eighty percent of his body was human-shaped. He stood up straight, and had shoulders, arms, elbows, hands, knees, feet, toes. He wore a white armor vest with a code “AO0C” printed on it just below the planet’s insignia. He also wore a pair of white pants and black boots.

He was just standing in his room of the royal palace, gazing up at the tapestry that told the story of the Grand Ruler's battle with the sorcerer, a-thousand years ago. It was one of his most favorite stories to hear and tell himself over and over as it really fascinated him.

“Lightning...?" someone said to him. "Are you still staring at that tapestry?"

Lightning turned and saw his best friend and lifelong companion; a small little fairy, about nine inches tall. She had long blond hair, and she wore a pink simple pink skirt and blouse, completed with cute slippers on her tiny feet.

"I can't help it, Krysta." said Lightning "Besides, it helps keep me calm. Remember, today's the day we start our new lives on the surface. We've both been living here in the palace for a very long time, and we've only seen SOME of the world below."

Krysta nodded and was eager to go, but she herself was still confused by many things, "I just don't get it; you've been training for over ten years and you still can't do normal magic."

It was true; though he was indeed an alicorn pony, unlike alicorn ponies, Lightning could not do magic. He could neither levitate things, transfigure objects, use telepathy, or teleport... or pretty much anything a normal alicorn could do. "Krysta, you know perfectly well why I can't use magic... and I'd really rather not talk about it." He sounded rather sad and downhearted, as if he were struggling with a deep emotional pain.

"I'm sorry..." Krysta said "I didn't mean..."

"It's okay..." Lightning said "Besides, sometimes I wonder why Grand Ruler took Me as his personal apprentice above all the others, but at least he gave us both a home for a long time."

So for many years Lightning lived with his master in the royal palace, which floated in the skies high above the surface of Unicornicopia, and he learned and was taught how to do things without the use of magic. He was especially trained in the art of combat and was exercised immensely in physical training. Now Grand Ruler felt that Lightning was old enough and mature, and was sending him to live on surface below; to meet new creatures; make friends and most of all, to finally make a new life for himself after all that had happened. However, but he was to continue his studies and his training.

He had complete and total faith in his student and knew he would do well.

Lightning took one last look at his bedroom in the palace, knowing he wouldn't see it again for some time. “Well… I guess we better get going.”

Krysta nodded and they both flew off together, ready to start their new lives.

MY BRAVE PONY
(Starfleet Magic)

(Opening Intro would be something like this)

Episode 1: Evil's Return: Part 1

EPISODE ONE

There were many different countries, cities, and other places on the planet of Unicornicopia; and the world’s main populace consisted entirely of alicorns, genetically altered giving them human-like bodies; Space Alicorns. There wer eno Earth Ponies, no Pegasi, not even regular Unicorns... Just alicorns

Each and every one of the alicorns had their own specific ID-Code printed on their clothing near the insignia like Lightning had; sort of like having a citizen number or a alternate name to make you identifiable.

The alicorns themselves usually went on with their daily normal lives-- Children went to school, and played with friends, while the adults had jobs and things to do. Some ponies wore outfits like Lightning did, but others wore casual clothing; all a matter of choice. Some even wore an armor vest under their casual clothes.

The planet itself was also a tightly control police state, but a benevolent one and not tyrannical. The streets were always kept clean. Petty or harsh crimes would not be tolerated and subjected to small sentences-- a week of community service, or a night in small prisons, things like that.

Then there were VERY serious crimes that usually were handled by trial, but that was hardly the point.

Still, it wasn't a bad place to live at all. Many places to go, much to do, low taxes, and highly advanced forms of technology to help make life easier, and the environment was always kept a nice 75 degress, not to hot, not too cold. so it was practically like Springtime all yearlong.

Lightning was settling into his new house in White Village-- a quiet, soft suburban area, with white houses and simple roofs, but just because it was called "White Village" did not at all mean that only white ponies lived there. All the countries and villages of sorts were named after colors, but many different alicorns of many different colors and sizes. There were no restrictions of where they could chose to live.

Lightning just finished unpacking his things, with Krysta’s help. Even though Krysta was small, about seven inches tall, she was able to lift up to 3000 times her own weight. Since she weighed 4 whole ounces, she was able to lift upwards of 750 pounds!

Lightning’s house was built on the Grand Ruler’s orders to have a special, smaller house built for Krysta, like a mouse-hole near Lightning’s bed. Just perfect for one her size.

“Well, that’s all of it.” Lightning said, but as tired as he felt this was no time for them to rest, as he remembered his instructions from the Grand Ruler before they left the palace…

“The time has come for you to socialize with others who are more like you. Once you settle into your new home, I want you to venture out and meet some of the populace. They have all been notified of your arrival and are anxious to meet you. It will help you get off a fine beginning.

Good luck my student.”

So, Lightning and Krysta were off. Krysta couldn’t fly as fast as Lightning so she simply sat on his head and held onto his golden horn.

Soon, they arrived at their destination. The central town at the very center of the kingdom was Rainbow City Central, the biggest and busiest city in the entire dimension. Tall buildings, and business places were all around, and many, many unicorns were all going about their business, going to work and walking their children to school.

Krysta and Lightning couldn’t stop admiring the view, but they didn’t know where to stop first to talk to anyone or what to do for that matter. As they walked through a quiet area of the city, where there wasn’t as much noise, they suddenly spotted a large garden with all kinds of plants, vegetables, and beautiful flowers. “Wow!” exclaimed Lightning as he gazed at the lovely flowers. “Double wow!” added Krysta as she fluttered around sniffing the many sensational smells. “Mmm…! Smells like… like…” But then her little nose began to twitch, “Ah… Ah…!”

“Krysta…?” cried Lightning “Krysta, No!” but Krysta had already sneezed “AH-CHOO…!” and even though she was just a little fairy, that single sneeze caused the flower she sniffed to keel over and lose all its petals. “Oh! Oh my!” cried Krysta.

That’s when a red alicorn came dashing over. “Oh, no…! Not again?” he groaned as he gently began to scoop the fallen flower into a pot. Krysta apologized but the red unicorn said it wasn’t her fault. “They're called Keelilies, they have a tendancey to keel over whenever anyone sneezes near them. Not to worry, I can fix it. There’s no finer gardener than me on this planet.”

Lightning was amazed. “You mean, you grew all this?” he asked.

The other alicorn nodded, “My name’s Buddy Rose; Code-Number: FT5H. I’m the caretaker of the community garden. I can handle any flower, tree, weed-- anything that grows.” and sure enough, in no time at all, the flower Krysta had ruined was standing upright again, and Buddy didn’t seem to use any form of magic but rather ordinary gardening. “Huh!” remarked Lightning. “That’s amazing. Oh, by the way… I’m…”

“Lightning Dawn…? I know...” said Buddy “His majesty, the Grand Ruler, told everyone to expect you.”

“He did?” Lightning asked, and Buddy Rose explained that his majesty wanted to ensure Lightning's first day be a pleasant one. So he notified others to expect him, but not to treat him strangely. "We were all strangers ourselves once, and we know what it feels like to come to someplace new."

Suddenly, Buddy remembered an errand he had quite forgotten to do, but he still had far too many planets to look after desperately. “Oh I’m sorry to impose, but could you do me a really big favor?”

"Um... sure... I guess." said Lightning, and he was given a medium-sized crate of vegetables.

“Could you take these to the Rainbow Dish Inn, when you go through town, please?”

"Uh... sure... I'll do that."

Buddy smiled “Thank you so much, and it was nice meeting you." then he went off to tend to his other plants.

“Well… that went well.” joked Krysta.

Lightning had to carry that crate all over and got a lost a few times. Even though his great strength from his training allowed him to lift it up with ease, lugging it around for a while did lead to weariness.

“I should’ve asked for directions first.” he groaned. Though he had studied maps of Unicornicopia and all of it's sights and locations, he had only seen so much on field-trips with his mentor, and therefore he didn't really know his way that well around.

“Why don’t you sit and rest?” Krysta suggested. “Good idea!” Lightning panted and slumped down on a bench by a fountain, almost dropping the basket. “Oh! My arms are so tired..!” It was times like this Lightning hated the fact he couldn’t do magic as it meant he couldn’t simply levitate the basket to carry it more easily, but then again that would be an insult to why he had arms and hands at all.

“Excuse me…?” someone said. The voice belonged to an orange alicorn, wearing a red artist’s hat, just up ahead who was painting on a canvas. “…You kind of walked into the way of the scenery.”

“Ugh!” groaned Lightning, but then the other pony caught the sight of Krysta. “Is that a…fairy…?” His eyes lit up like the sun. “Hold still, please!” he said with excitement. Krysta felt confused, but did as she was told, and in almost no time the artist showed her and Lightning his painting. “I shall call it Fairy in the Park.”

Krysta thought it was incredible. It looked so real almost as if she was staring into a mirror. Lightning thought the same thing. “Who are you anyway?” he then asked.

The alicorn introduced himself as Artie Bristles; Code-number: HV7J. He was a fine artist who loved to paint, draw, and sculpt; some even said he could turn anything at all into a work of art, even garbage. “You should come to my art gallery sometime, both of you.”

Krysta’s eyes lit up, “We’d love to.” She said.

“Yes… but we have an errand to.” Lightning quickly said as he scooped Krysta in his right wing “Let’s go, Krysta!” and he ran off with the basket of vegetables, much to Artie’s confusion, but he couldn’t wait to tell all his viewers that he had just seen and painted a real-live fairy.

Krysta thought that was rude of Lightning. But Lightning thought Artie was a little too eccentric, especially how the way he acted as if he had never seen a fairy before, but that was pretty much the case as Krysta was the only fairy on the entire planet, but that wasn’t important now.

As they turned round the next corner…CRASH!! The vegetables were everywhere. Lightning felt the whole world spinning. “What hit me?” he groaned.

He got up and saw a yellow alicorn that didn’t see them as he turned the corner and ran right into them. He apologized to Lightning and Krysta… in rhyme.

“I’m very sorry to have run into you.
That was a very silly thing to do.”

Lightning apologized too, as he should have watched where he was going. He then offered to help them both pick up the vegetables and put them back in the basket.

“I’ll help you as part of my task.”
Say! Are you Lightning Dawn, may I ask?”

“Uh… yes… I am….” answered Lightning “And this is my friend Krysta.”

"Hi..."

The other pony bowed in greeting

“My name is X-L-7-Zed.
But everyone just calls me Rhymey.
I’m very pleased to meet you two,
I love when I meet someone new.”

Lightning and Krysta could hardly believe the way he was talking so perfectly in rhyme.

“Um… do you always talk that way,
and rhyme no matter what you say?” asked Lightning, only to quickly realize he had rhymed juts liked them. “I mean… rhyme all the time?” he did it again.

Rhymey chuckled and said…

“I love to make rhymes, you see…
And I love to sing and hear poetry

My whole family speaks this way
It’s our passion to rhyme what we say

My café, "Rhyme Time" is where I usually stay
But I had few errands to run today.”

Krysta and Lighting never knew anyone who spoke in rhyme before, but it seemed okay to them. It was just his special way of talking and there was nothing wrong with it a bit. They thought it was sort of neat.

“I hope that again we may chat.
But I’m busy now, and I must scat.”

Then he flew off leaving a much confused but amazed Krysta and Lightning. “Wow! He’s pretty good with rhymes.” said Krysta.

“I wonder what he’ll say the next time.” added Lightning. Then he and Krysta realized they both just made a rhyme, again, and they were both felt Rhymey’s speech pattern was starting to affect them.

Nevertheless, they carried on with their errand.

and soon they found the place they were looking for, a restaurant with a sign with a picture of a blue alicorn wearing a chef’s outfit that read “Cookie Dough’s Rainbow Dish Inn.”

Lightning felt so relieved and couldn’t wait to get rid of the basket of vegetables he had been holding for a while, especially combined with all the movie he had done that day.

Since the Space Alicorns had human-like bodies this meant they required more proper sustenance unlike normal ponies. They had to eat meats and fish, as well as grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy, and all the rest of it to.

The restaurant was very busy. Alicorns were everywhere; some who looked as if they had already eaten were ordering seconds or just stuffing their faces with more food like an obsession. “They must’ve been really been hungry.” said Krysta. Then, as she sniffed the air, she could tell why. The smell of so many wonderful foods… “Oh! Oh my…! It smells so good.”

“Krysta, this is no time to be thinking about food.” snapped Lightning, but then his stomach growled. He had quite forgotten that he hadn’t eaten lunch what with all the moving and distractions he had been having. “On the other hand…” he said.

Just then, the big doors to the kitchen opened and several waiters and waitresses came out holding tureens and trays of delicious hot foods, fresh tossed salads, fruits and pastries, meats and then… all the customers rose out of their seats and applauded as the head chef came out.

It was that same blue alicorn from the sign on the restaurant. He wore a white chef’s hat, apron, and his code-number was BP1D, yet everyone cheered “Hail Cookie Dough! Hail Cookie Dough!”

Cookie Dough graciously reciprocated the applause and cheers from the customers. “Honored guests… Your admiration of my humble fare is most appreciated. It fills my heart with joy to fill your stomachs with delight. Eat hearty, everyone!”

The customers all cheered and continued to feast, but Lightning followed Cookie Dough into the kitchen. “Um… excuse me?” he asked. Cookie Dough turned round, “Oh! You must be the new delivery boy, just set those vegetables down over there in the corner.”

Lightning did as he was told but then said, “Actually, I’m Lightning Dawn.”

Cookie Dough turned round again in near shock. “Uh…you mean The Lightning Dawn, the Grand Ruler’s personal apprentice?”

Lightning blinked once “Yes…” and then his stomach gurgled again. Cookie Dough hated the sound of stomachs growling in hunger. “Oh my, I won’t have this, not in my restaurant.” he said and before Lightning knew it, Cookie Dough had given him and Krysta a special table right there in the kitchen and the two watched him skillfully mix, mash, slice, and chop up all the foods he would use to cook with into a perfect meal for them both. It was almost hypnotic to watch.

Lightning was served with a well grilled, juicy rare steak a lovely baked potato, with a small pile of peas and carrots on the side, and Krysta had the same kind of meal, only since she was smaller, her food was smaller.

“So, you’re a cook, obviously?” asked Krysta.

Cookie Dough shook his head and explained “To me, a cook is just isn't strong enough. I happen to be, if you will, an award wining master chef. You see, a cook feeds the stomach, while a chef nourishes the soul and educates the taste buds, but try the food, you’ll love it.”

Not wanting to be rude, Lightning and Krysta took a little nibble from their steaks, and their taste buds went crazy. It tasted so incredibly wonderful; they just had to keep eating until not a morsel was left on their plates, and by the time they were both finished they felt as if they could hardly move. It was no surprise that was what Cookie Dough was famous for. He could satisfy the appetite of anyone, even if they weren’t even hungry, customers just begged to have a single sample of his finest cooking.

Before Lightning and Krysta left, Cookie gave them an invitation he was meant to hand to them upon their arrival. It was an invitation to the town library and observatory, but exactly why or what for, it didn’t say.

So they decided to head straight over, following the directions on the invitation, but as they went they passed by the hospital and someone called out. “You there…! Hold it!”

Lightning turned and saw a white alicorn with a pink mane, wearing a doctor’s coat and a medial-cap approaching him. Her ID was DR3F, but everyone knew her as Dr. Penny Sillon. “Are you Lightning Dawn?” she asked.

“Yes, I am…” said Lightning.

“Thought so, come with me please.” replied Dr. Penny as she dragged Lightning into the hospital, much to his protest. “Hey! What are you?”

Penny had also been told of Lightning’s arrival, but what Lightning hadn’t been told before leaving was he was to report to Penny for a physical. It was his orders that every new comer to Unicornicopa had to have one, and that’s exactly what Lightning went through.

Lightning had a normal physical, all A-Okay, but Penny also wanted test out how strong and how fast he really was. So she put Lightning on a treadmill to see how fast he could run, or flutter with weights on his back to see how much he could lift, but when it came to the magic-test, which was like having a blood test only different, Penny was most surprised. “What? You don’t have any magic at all?”

“That’s right, I can’t do magic.” said Lightning “Yet I’m fit as a fiddle, healthy and keen-- Can I go now?”

Penny saw no reason why he couldn’t, but she wondered something else, about Lightning’s golden horn and she began to wonder if maybe he was capable of something more.

Lightning was getting tired of running into so many new faces everywhere he went. “Couldn’t I have just met them all in one place?” he asked “I’m getting tired, and I would like some time to myself at least.”

“Oh, come on, Lightning.” Krysta reminded him, “You’re still getting know the place, and that’s what Grand Ruler said, right?”

Lightning knew she was right, and so they continued on their way through town, and finally reached the library. “This must be it.” He said as they ventured inside, only to find everything was all dark. They couldn’t’ see anything, even when Krysta used her glow to make a little light. “This is getting creepy.” she shuttered.

Lightning felt the same, and he got a sick feeling that they weren’t alone. Then, all at once, the lights went on followed by the voices of many yelling “SURPRISE…!”

Balloons and decorations were everywhere as confetti fell from the ceiling, and big banner that read, “Welcome Lightning Dawn”

The head of this party was the librarian, Inquerius. Her number was ES4G. She was a grey Alicorn, and wore half-moon spectacles. “Are you surprised, Lightning?” she asked.

Lightning was almost speechless. “I… uh… this… buh…?” before he could say anything else, all the unicorns approached him introducing themselves, and offering him some refreshments, or to join a game, or even dance. “I think I’ll just have some punch please.” cried Lightning, who really needed to cool off from all the sudden buzz and excitement.

So much had already happened to him that day he hardly ever had anytime to himself or to rest, and every time he tried to excuse himself he would bump into another unicorn and find himself unable to get away. “Krysta…! Help…!” he begged, but Krysta was a little preoccupied by her own fan-crowd of spectators who were amazed to see an actual fairy.

Then suddenly, all went dark, and the stage curtains at the back of the party lit up for the entertainment was about to begin. “And now everyone…” the announcer called, “The mystifying magic of… Abra-Kadabra…!”

POOF! A puff of purple smoke puffed and then, as if out of nowhere, appeared a purple alicorn, wearing a magician’s outfit, hat and cape, and his number was CQ2E, sewn on his tuxedo. His actual name was Abraham, but every preferred to call him by his stage name, to which he preferred as well.

“Thank you! Thank you!” he said with a kind English accent, to the cheering crowd. “And now… if I may have a volunteer to help me with my first fantastic trick, please.”

Since Lightning was the guest of honor, you can bet the crowd was urging him to go, shoving him up on stage despite his protests. “Well, Lightning Dawn-- how wonderful I am to meet you.” said Abra.

“Yeah…! Charmed…” said Lightning.

The first trick was the old magic-box. Lightning stepped in. The door was shut. Abra tapped each his hooves twice. The door opened, and Lightning was gone. “Ooh…!” went the crowd and Abra then took of his hat, and gave it a tap, and plop. “Ah…!” Lightning fell out of it and onto the stage. The crowd cheered for both Abra and Lightning.

It was a good thing that, after which, everyone was so preoccupied watching the show and the entertainment, that Lightning and Krysta could finally slip off deeper into the library to have to quiet time instead of having to talk to someone new every ten seconds.

I’m going to go book browsing. Krysta said. “Want some company?” Lightning offered. “No thanks. I’ll be okay.” replied Krysta as she flew off. Lightning had a good idea of what Krysta was looking for and he hoped that she would find it.

Lightning could only sigh, and then he turned to gaze out a window. The night has certainly come quickly, but then again he did have a very busy day so the time just flew by.

Lightning knew this was Grand Ruler’s doing, he always brought in the most beautiful nights, but Lightning’s daydreaming was interrupted when a book fell down and landed right beside him.

“Huh?”

It was an ordinary book on astronomy. “Is anyone down there…?” called a feminine voice from up a spiral flight of stairs. “Yes…?” Lightning called “Is this your book?”

“Yes! Could you bring it up please?”

Lightning flew up to the top instead of climbing the stairs, and emerged in the observatory on top of the library, which was rather only but a single room, much like an attic.

“Oh, thank you so much.” said the voice.

Lightning turned round and saw the voice belonged to be the most… beautiful alicorn he had ever seen! She was white, and had a voluminous violet sparkling mane, long eyelashes which glittered when she blinked; her armor sparkled like the very stars themselves. She was looking through her telescope, up at the night sky. Lightning felt all strange and soft inside. “I, uh… I didn’t see you at the party.” Lightning said

“Oh, I didn’t feel like it. I just can’t stop looking up at the stars.” said the young mare.

“Um… what’s your name?” asked Lightning.

The unicorn looked at him and spoke softly. “My name’s Starla-- Starla Shine; ID-Code: KY1M. Who are you?”

He hesitated for a minute as he found himself lost in Starla’s eyes, “I’m Lightning Dawn; Code: AO0C.”

“Lightning…” Starla said softly "That's a cool name."

The two of them seemed to get along well for having just met. Starla explained she loved to look at the stars because to her they were just so mystical and held many secrets, almost like they could tell you a story or give advice.

She kept all her sightings in a notebook she had with her and showed Lightning all the many constellations and outer systems she had discovered, some that even dated back to the time when The Grand Ruler fought off the evil sorcerer one-thousand years ago and sealing him away. “Lately I’ve been trying to discover more constellations or something new.” Starla said

“Well, what’s out there tonight?” asked Lighting. Starla took a peek through her telescope. At first she saw nothing but the same old stars, but then. “Wait a minute… what is that?” She spotted a strange sort of light, but it defiantly wasn’t a star. It looked as if it was moving.

Lightning could soon see it with his own eyes. “Whatever it is… I think it’s coming right this way.” Suddenly, there was large tremor followed by strikes of dark lightning, with a very loud and a sinister laughing sound!

“What’s happening?” cried Lightning. “Oh!” cried Starla. They could hear the other ponies screaming down below and dashed down to see what was going on. “Lightning!” called Krysta “What’s going on…?”

“Can this be…?” cried Inquerius “Are the rumors true…?” The doors flew open letting strong winds into the place as the windows shattered. Everyone was running about in panic as a large flash of lightning and big roar of thunder rumbled.

Then… there… on the stage… appeared a tall human-shaped figure dressed in dark robes, shoulder-guards, and a dark hood atop completely concealing his face within its shadows-- except his eyes, his red and evil eyes glowing in the darkness within the hood.

Lightning could barely speak as he just stood there, gawking at the evil creature as it spoke. “I… am… Titan! Lord and master of all darkness, and bringer of chaos and nightmares to the dimensional universe! Long have I waited for this day-- that I would finally escape my prison and return and finish what I had started!”

His appearance seemed familiar to Lightning, and that’s when he made the comparisons to the old stories. “You…!” snarled Lightning “You’re the one I’ve heard of from the stories. That same evil the Grand Ruler banished to the Dark Planet!”

Titan chuckle evil “Yes…! But alas, that seal could not keep me a prisoner forever. Your Grand Ruler should have finished me off when he had the chance! Now, his mistake shall be the beginning of your undoing as my first act of vengeance for being sealed away for all these centuries!” He raised his monstrous hands up high unleashing powerful bolts of energy everyone to further frighten everyone and his evil laugh echoed “This world… and all that reside here SHALL FEEL THE WRATH OF DARKNESS!!”

To be continued…!

(Promo)

In our next episode, Titan unleashes his wrath by kidnapping several ponies in attempt to use them to increase his power. Lightning tries to help, but his newfound friends, who are fighters of Starfleet, advise him to stay out of the way. Ignoring their warning Lightning sets off to prove that he is capable of doing more than he seems, only to run into more traps and tricks along the way.

Will Lightning and his friends be able to stop Titan before he does any serious damage? Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic!”

(Next Episode: “Evil’s Return: Part 2)

Episode 15: The Fallen World of Elfaron

EPISODE FIFTEEN

Lightning and his entire unit had been summoned to Grand Ruler’s palace, for a star stone had been located on another planet, and the time had come to send a volunteer or two through the portal warp to retrieve it. As much as Lightning wanted to go, he knew he couldn’t in case Titan’s minions tried to attack Unicornicopia again, and Grand Ruler couldn’t go either as it would be most unwise to leave his kingdom during such fearful times.

Further, reports from other Starfleet forces on other planets have given off red-alert messages that the planet was in bad condition, as if it had been previously attacked, but by what they had no clue. The forces were not sent to retrieve it fearing that whatever attacked the planet would be bound to hit their sectors, and they were told to stand guard.

“I fear for the worst…” Grand Ruler said “But we must obtain that star stone. Again, this is a volunteer assignment. You won’t be held against your will.”

Buddy Rose and Artie decided to go. They both were very nervous yet excited at the same time for their first-ever space-mission, but they were both warned to keep their wits about them in light of the situation.

The both transformed and stood ready to go.

“Are you boys ready?” Grand Ruler asked.

The boys nodded, and just before they left, Grand Ruler went over final details and use his own magic to enchant the boys with a special return-spell. “Your visor-scanners should help you detect the stone’s location, and when you are ready to return, simply tap your Starfleet insignia’s three times in a row, but when you are absolutely ready to return.”

The boys bowed to him. “We understand, Your Highness.” said Buddy Rose. “We won’t let you down.” added Artie. Grand Ruler bowed to them and then he enchanted the magic portal to take the boys right to the planet, and the boys leapt through and vanished in a big flash of light.

“Now, all we can do is wait.” said Grand Ruler.

“I sure hope they can find the stone.” said Lightning.

Everyone felt the same way too, but as much as they had faith, they knew that when it came to outer-space or visiting other planets, anything was bound to happen.

As the boys magically slid across the long magical pathway, they couldn’t help but gaze in wonder and astonishment of the beautiful sights of Dimensional Space-- all the stars, and pretty scene. Still, they kept in mind not to stray from the path or face the dangers of being teleported to anyplace in the universe.

In just a matter of seconds, they had left their home star-system behind and were soon approaching their destination. “Here we go!” cried Buddy Rose. “Oh, boy, this is it!” Artie whimpered.

As they traveled along deeper towards the planet, they didn’t notice a pair of large, red glowing and evil looking eyes gazing at them from afar. Then they vanished into space.

The planet was just as dismal and upsetting as excepted. The skies were red, and the landscapes were all littered with destruction and charred vegetation, destroyed villages and wastelands.

The space-portal appeared and the boys emerged on the surface of the planet. Then the portal vanished. “We made it.” cried Buddy Rose. “Yeah, but exactly where are we?” asked Artie “I don’t recognize this planet from most others.”

The atmosphere had already checked out clean form prior reports, but the boys scanned the area with their visors. There was nothing lethal in the air, and the radiation-content was negative of the soil, but the ground was defiantly in bad shape. “My garden would never stand a chance in all this.” Buddy Rose said. Then he noticed a series very wide holes up ahead. “Maybe a swarm of meteors hit this place.”

“Not likely.” said Artie “Then the atmosphere would be clouded with dust.” They both walked right up to one of the large holes which had to be at least ten feet in diameter, and gazing down they found the hole was actually a large tunnel, one that no meteor could possibly have made. “I’m starting to think that something did attack here.” said Artie. Both he and Buddy felt it all the more important they find the star stone and leave quickly.

They scanned around for the stone’s energy and proceeded west, unaware that a strange creature was watching them from a far distance.

Back in Unicornicopia, Lightning and Krysta were charged with looking after Buddy Rose’s garden while he was away. It was a good thing they saw him do it so many times which was why they were doing so well. Lightning was tending to the weeding while Krysta watered the plants. She couldn’t help but wonder if the plants missed Buddy Rose.

“Well, I bet these weeds don’t!” growled Lightning as he struggled to yank them out, only to fling backwards into the wheelbarrow and hit the wall. Krysta couldn’t help but giggle. Lightning was not amused. “Very funny, Krysta.” he grumbled.

As the two of them worked, they couldn’t help but wonder how Buddy Rose and Artie were doing. “What do you think they’ve found?” Krysta wondered aloud. “I don’t know, but I’ll bet that it’s pretty exciting… or dangerous…?”

Buddy and Artie continued to track the source of the star stone. They found no signs of life. Just more destruction and devastation wherever they went. “Whatever attacked this planet must’ve been extremely powerful.” Buddy Rose suggested.

Artie was inclined to agree and he observed more of the damaged cities and villages he began to fear for whatever life-forms were on this planet, but as much destruction as there was, there were no signs of any murders or victims-- No bones, corpses, not a single bloodstain.

Suddenly, their scanners went crazy. The star stone was very near! “Down there.” Artie said while pointing to a dilapidated house in the remains a demolished village. The boys flew down to the ground and entered the large house. “It’s coming on real loud and strong now.” said Buddy Rose. “I’ll check upstairs, your scout down here.”

Artie nodded and they both split up.

As Buddy Rose checked upstairs he heard the sound of soft clattering. Artie heard it too from downstairs and both of them wondered what it was.

As Buddy Rose moved in closer down the hall, his scans were going crazy. He softly pushed open a door leading what looked like a bedroom, and there it was-- a star-shaped jewel, half red and half orange and with the silver star in the middle. “Oh, my stars-- That’s it! I found it!” he cried as he reached to take it in triumph, but before he could holler for Artie, he heard that clatter again. “Who’s there?” he snapped sharply. He heard the noise again coming from the closet.

Buddy Rose slowly crept towards it, and opened the doors forcefully, only to find a sweet little humanoid girl with pointy ears in tears and whimpering. “Please… don’t hurt me!”

Buddy Rose scanned her with his visor, and found she was a simple ordinary elf-creature and not a threat at all. His features softened. “Who are you?” he tried to reach out to her, but the girls backed away quivering. “Don’t be afraid. I’m not going to hurt you. I’m with Starfleet.”

The little elf girl had heard of Starfleet and they were a force to be trusted, and slowly began to come forward, but was still hesitant to trust him. Buddy Rose reached out to her politely, and she took his hand.

Artie came into the room relieved to see the star stone secured, but concerned for the frightened little girl. “What’s your name?” he asked.

The girl hesitated for a moment, and then said “My name’s Ilia, and this is all there is now of the planet Elfaron.”

Hearing the name Elfaron made the boys remember the planet after all. They had heard and studied about it during their intergalactic-studies at the academy, and why they initially didn’t recognize it.

Elfaron used to be a world with lush green fields, forests, ponds, just like Lightning’s birth-planet, Harmonious. The entire populace was a race of elves and other tiny little animals. They didn’t possess magic, but were experts at making potions, remedies, and elixirs. As such, and being peaceful creatures, they were practically considered some of the monster harmless creatures in the galaxy, with no need for warfare. Starfleet had discovered the planet long ago on explorations, and even asked the elders if they would ever allow Starfleet to lookout and protect as they did for most worlds that permitted them, but as always the decision was for the elders to decide, not an enforcement, and the elders politely refused insisting and confident that their world was the least likely to ever be the target for outside forces. Despite Starfleet’s persuasions and suggestions the refusal was final. Starfleet understood and left the planet in peace as one of those worlds outside of their derestriction.

“But what happened to your planet?” Buddy Rose asked. Hearing that brought tears of woe and fear to Ilia’s little eyes, but she did her explain. “Recently, an evil creature and her army of soldiers had come to the planet in search of something, which I’m sure is this jewel I found. They never found it.”

All Ilia could recall was the numerous explosions, attacks, and the panicking of her people, and as they were powerless to do anything to stop the monsters, their only choice was to flee Elfaron, as they had access to space-portals of their own, and head off to other planets until they could return home, if not, they would start their lives over elsewhere, but Ilia was mistakenly left behind after being separated from her family. She was the only one left, and she didn’t have the resources or the courage to venture out into space on her own. She had no idea where to go or how to get in touch with her family.

Poor Ilia, he eyes were brimming with tears. The boys very sorry for her, but they promised to help her by taking her back to Unicornicopia. If there was any place in the known star-systems her folks had gone to, they would know and find it. Ilia hugged Buddy Rose thankfully. The boys felt flattered, but Artie to ask “Ilia, just one thing; this evil creature you spoke of, can you tell us what it looked like?”

Before Ilia could say a thing, the house began to rumble as the ground quake. “Oh, no…!” Ilia cried “It’s coming back! It’s coming!” The rumbling got more violent, and the house began to break up as if whatever was coming was coming right below them. “Let’s get out of here!” shouted Buddy Rose, and holding Ilia close, they all leapt out the window and sped away from the house just as the ground beneath it erupted as a huge, snarling creature emerged from the wreckage-- A huge serpent about twenty feet in length with huge teeth, razor-sharp fins, and red burning eyes.

Ilia screamed at the sight of her, and the boys were near speechless. “What is that?!” cried Buddy Rose. Artie scanned her with his visor, and found her to be a swamp-demon serpent, possibly from the planet Bayou. Her power levels were indeed off the charts, more powerful than even Titan’s minions and all the monsters they fought.

She turned and gazed at the fleeing friends, and opened her huge mouth “PLASMA VAPOUR!” and unleashed a burning stream of fiery energy straight at them. “Look out!” cried Artie, and they all dodged barely missing the energy, but crashed to the ground. Nobody got hurt, but the evil serpent-beast snarled and began to rush straight for them, busting through anything that stood in her way and shouting “STAR STONE!”

The boys gazed down at the stone, but would not let her have it. Arite and Buddy Rose tried to attack the oncoming beast…

“LEAF SWARM”

“PAINT BOMB”

…But their attacks did nothing at all, and the beast continued to charge forth shouting “GIVE ME THE STAR STONE!”

“Scatter!” shouted Artie, and they all jumped out of the way causing the creature to miss them and crash into several buildings. She seemed a little stuck. The friends thought this was their chance to run, but they suddenly found themselves surrounded by humanoid serpent-soldiers, armed with shields and swords. The boys scanned them, only to find they were actually hollow creatures artificially created by magic, almost like how Titan’s minions made monster. They were not truly living things.

“Quick, get Ilia out of here, I’ll try and hold them off.” said Artie. “No, I won’t leave you here!” snapped Buddy Rose, but Artie insisted he go. So Buddy flew off taking Ilia and the stone with him, and Artie stood ready for battle.

The soldiers all lunged at him, and he evaded their every move and using his material-art skills. He punched, kicked and bashed those ugly brutes all to the ground, but they quickly got back up again just as angry and fierce as ever. “Whoa! These guys are tough.”

“As they should be…” snarled the serpent-beast. She pulled herself from the wreckage and turned to face him. Artie narrowed his eyes at the beast. “I am Starfleet fighter HV7J. Who are you, and why do you seek the star stone so bad that you had to attack this defenseless planet?”

The demon hissed and answered “I am Serpentari-- Deadliest creature of the galaxy.”

“Serpentari?” Artie muttered.

“I exist for one reason and one alone, to become the most powerful creature in the entire known dimensional universe. For centuries I have searched for an ultimate power, and finally I find what I seek. I will allow nothing and nobody to step in my way from obtaining the star stones and depriving me from my rightful place as the best of the rest.”

Artie was absolutely livid at such a plot. “You would destroy other races just for your own selfish desires?! How-- Why would you do such a thing?”

Serpentari hissed angrily and thundered “Silence! I have told you of my goal, and my motivation is none of your concern. You will now surrender the star stone to me!”

“I don’t have it!” snarled Artie “And even if I had, you must be as crazy as you are ugly that I’d hand it over to slime like you.”

Serpentari looked as if she were about to explode with fury. “You dare defy and INSULT ME?!?!” She lunged right at him, and Artie swerved out of the way, but he saw her tunnel under the ground and was gone. “Huh? Where’d she go?” Suddenly, Artie’s visor gave of a seismographic warning. The ground immediately rumbled and Artie swiftly jumped out of the way as Serpentari burst through the ground. The shockwaves of the burst still threw him off, and the serpent-soldiers ambushed him and held him down. He tried to break free, but he couldn’t.

Serpentari snickered wickedly “Foolish pony! I have destroyed armies and you dare to try and resist me?! Now you shall DIE!!” She lunged right for him and even her own soldiers, ready to smash them all to bits, but at the last few feet, Buddy Rose came soaring like lightning and holding his whip and yanked one of the soldiers up off his feet and knocking him into several others, giving Artie his chance to escape, causing Serpentari to miss and only destroy most of her own men, and crash deep into a cliff-face. She was stuck hard.

“You okay?” Buddy Rose called out.

“Yeah, you came just in time, but what about the girl?”

“She’s safe, she’s okay. But let’s not leave here without saying goodbye to these creeps.”

Artie agreed and got out his staff. The remaining serpent soldiers hissed fiercely and charged at the boys. Buddy Rose gripped his whip tightly, and waved it over his head like a lasso. The while began to charge up and glow with power. “Have a taste of my new finisher.” He shouted “WHIPLASH STRIKE!” and he cracked his whip fiercely at the ground sending a shocking waving towards several of the soldiers, hitting them hard with the powerful jolts, destroying them.

“My turn.” said Artie...

(Skip to 0:33)

...and he leapt right at the swarm of remaining soldiers, whacking at them hard with his staff. Even performing new moves he had practiced while training including a spin-kick: by placing his staff hard into the ground and holding it tight while spinning like a top and kicking his opponents hard.

(0:48)

“Now it’s time for my new finisher. SUPER-STAFF SPIN”

He held his staff up over his head and began whirling it round and around like a propeller, and the staff began to charge up with power. In a swift rage, he slashed at the soldiers and destroyed them hard. After the last one exploded, the boys quickly decided to retreat with the star stone in hand.

At that very second, Serpentari pulled herself free but found her soldiers destroyed and her enemies gone. She roared fiercely and furiously in the outrage of having lost the battle.

After meeting back up with Ilia, the boys activated the return-spell and warped back to Unicornicopia. In Grand Ruler’s palace, the portal was glowing madly and in a bright flash the boys emerged. The others rushed there the second they heard.

“Guys, are you alright? Did you find the star stone?” Lightning asked. Buddy Rose held up the stone for all to see, but the first thing he and Artie wanted most was to help little Ilia.

Grand Ruler quickly sent word to the Starfleet Missing Creature Department, and it almost took no time at all for a report to come in from one of the outer Starfleet forces knowing the location of Ilia’s folks. Grand Ruler issued a team of astronauts to escort the little elf girl to them immediately.

Before Ilia left, she hugged Buddy Rose and Artie and couldn’t thank them enough for helping her. “I’ll never forget you guys, ever, and thanks again for everything.”

“No sweat.” Buddy Rose said.

“It’s what we’re here for.” added Artie.

Then Ilia left with the astronauts and was soon reunited with her family on another planet. The boys were very happy their little friend would be okay, and the Grand Ruler was proud of them both for not only having helped the little elf-girl, but for safely securing another one of the star stones. “Thanks to you boys, you now can become even stronger, but keep in mind there are still two more stones that must be obtained.”

The boys bowed to their ruler in acknowledgement, and then gave their report on their adventure, including about Serpentari and her serpent-soldiers. This made a shiver run down Lightning’s spine, the way they described the demon in every way. “No, it couldn’t be…!” he muttered, and mind began to trail back to that awful day when his planet Harmonious was attacked by the exact same creatures as the ones described.

“Lightning, are you okay?” asked Krysta.

Lightning remained stiff and entranced, even when Krysta flicked at his cheek, he still didn’t move. “LIGHTNING!” she shouted into his ear finally snapping him to his sense. “Huh? What? I… sorry, I zoned out.”

“I don’t understand.” said Starla “Whoever this Serpentari is, how did she learn about the star stones?”

“I don’t think it matters how.
We should all tread more cautiously now.” said Rhymey.

The others all agreed, especially Grand Ruler. “It has now become a race to obtain the remaining star stones. Serpentari is now labeled as universal threat; she cannot be permitted to find them before we do.”

The Spanish twins felt hot with fury. “If that slimy Chiquita shows herself again, we’ll show her.” said Dyno, and his brother agreed “She kills so many and destroys so much. This cannot stand.”

Everyone in the room agreed, especially Lightning who was still wondering if Serpentari was really whom he thought she was. He gazed out the window and up into space in a threatening expression and thought deeply “I swear-- If you’re who I think you are, so help me… you will pay!”

As for Serpentari, she vowed to re-gather her forces and powers to strike again. “You have not heard the last of me, Starfleet!” she snarled, and then she vanished and left the planet. After which, those same glowing red eyes shone in the darkness above the planet, and then they faded again!

(Promo)

In our next episode, Titans minions have mastered their new powers and issue a showdown for Lightning and his friends. Unfortunately during the time, Lightning is suffering extreme traumatic episodes from his past which could be a problem to his battling style, but with the fate of Unicornicopia and the Galaxy at risk, there may not be a choice.

How will Lightning trauma affect him, and what will Starfleet do about Titan’s minions and their threat?

Don’t miss the next exciting episode of “Starfleet Magic!”

(Next Episode: “The Great Army Showdown: Part 1”)