Elements of Heroism Special: Reflections

Chapters

Dive Into the Mirror
Shards
Dark Reflection
Smash Through the Dark Mirror!
Prologue

Dive Into the Mirror

Canterlot Castle
Celestia sat at a table overlooking the royal gardens enjoying a slice of cake as she enjoyed the view. "Hmm! Lemon!" However, Celestia's moment of relaxation was interrupted when she felt a magical disturbance. And upon sensing the source of it, her eyes went wide. "It can't be..." Celestia picked up on where the disturbance was originating, and found Mirror Sombra before her eyes. "S-Sombra? What are you doing here?"

Mirror Sombra let out a bitter chuckle. "I wish my visit to your world was for a better reason. But I need your help." The two rulers then walked as Mirror Sombra recounted the events that had led to this moment. "As of late, you and Luna's counterparts have been quite the inconvenience for my kingdom. However, a new player has entered the battle under their employ. Recently, I had gathered my forces to meet the dark sisters in battle. However, the enemy that awaited us was a lone figure." Mirror Sombra briefly shivered for a moment. "And this lone combatant managed to incapacitate me and most of my forces. And the most terrifying part is that he said there were more like him under the employ of your counterpart." Mirror Sombra then turned his gaze to the floor in shame. "And upon thoroughly trouncing us, he told me that he'd soon return. As well as leaving his name. Burst Stream."

"Burst Stream..." Celestia whispered to herself before returning her attention to Mirror Sombra. "Alright. I'll help you. And I know just the people who can be of some aid to you."

Mirror Sombra smiled. "Excellent. Now then. Shall we leave?" Sombra gestured in the direction of the mirror he came through.

"No." Celestia said as she shook her head. "I think it would be best if you meet with the people who will be aiding in your battle. I know them very well. They're some of the strongest warriors I've seen in many years. And they've also fought alongside and saved the Bearers of Harmony as well. As well as fight against some of the deadliest enemies we've seen here. One was even bold enough to punch Discord right in the face."

Mirror Sombra was in awe. "Truly these warriors must be the greatest heroes of your kingdom."

"Well, they're called the Elements of Heroism for a reason." Celestia said with a giggle. "And I happen to be in close contact with one in particular." Celestia took out her phone, and texted Burst Stream. "They'll be assembled in Ponyville within the hour or less. Also..." Celestia summoned a scroll, and a pen. "I'd better alert Twilight. My former student. Now my fellow princess. She and her friends will certainly be of help in the coming battle." Celestia quickly sent the message via magic. "Now. I believe it would be rude to keep them waiting too long. Hold onto me tightly."

Mirror Sombra smiled. "I've much experience doing that dearest." And with that, Sombra wrapped his arms around Celestia tightly.

"Yes. I'm aware..." Celestia said with a nervous look as she and Sombra were soon wrapped in the golden glow of her magic. Teleporting to Ponyville! Upon arrival, they saw a lone figure approaching them. "Sombra. I'd like you to meet the leader of the Elements of Heroism."

Burst smiled, but soon had a puzzled look on his face when he noticed Mirror Sombra. "Celestia? This guy looks just like Sombra. Who is he?"

"I am Sombra. Though not the one you are acquainted with." Mirror Sombra answered. "I come from a different Equestria. One that is a dark reflection of this world. " He then looked over Burst Stream. "You certainly look the part of a hero. Might I have the name of the one who's lead the brave number of heroes to protect this world?"

"Burst Stream. Element of Power." Burst answered. "Nice to meet you."

Mirror Sombra was taken aback by Burst's answer. However, he quickly regained his composure and noted Burst's appearance. Unlike his mirror counterpart, this Burst had an overall cleaner appearance. His clothing choice was vastly different as well. Unlike the tattered black coat the Mirrror Burst wore, this one wore a white coat that was in fair condition. Also of note was that his wings were a mix of dragon and angel features, and that his hair was shorter. In short, his appearance just screamed "hero". "I suppose I could say it's the first time it actually is nice meeting you."

Burst blinked. "I'm guessing you came here because you got your butt handed to you by the mirror version of me?"

"How...how did you know that?!" Mirror Sombra asked.

Burst shrugged. "Eh. When you've read as many comic books as I have, sometimes you tend to put two-and-two together when it comes to mirror worlds. The others should be arriving shortly. They're grabbing their weapons too. Don't know what our enemies are packing." A small chuckle escaped Burst's lips. "After fighting my own dark side, I've been wondering what it'll be like to fight myself." Burst then noticed the rest of his friends approaching. "Looks like we're all ready now."

Mirror Sombra was amazed at both sets of elements assembled. "This is perfect! With your help, victory is certain!" Mirror Sombra then turned to Celestia, and smiled lovingly. "I knew you would be of help. Especially for all the happiness you've given me." He then took hold one of Celestia's hands. "My dear, sweet Tia..."

Burst took note of how friendly Mirror Sombra was getting with Celestia. One of HIS current girlfriends. And he raised his brow in suspicion. Inferno noticed Burst's mood, and decided to intervene. "So...how do we get to your world?"

"There's a mirror back in Canterlot that will lead us to my world." Mirror Sombra answered. "And we'll be headed there immediately. Let's not delay." A massive group teleport was initiated, and the group was transported to Canterlot Castle. Mirror Sombra led them to the mirror. "Here we go..." Mirror Sombra stepped through the mirror first, and the rest of the group followed. Upon reaching the other side, the two sets of Elements were amazed to see that despite this being a reflection of their own world, that it was largely the same. Save for the figures that greeted Mirror Sombra when they arrived. "I'd like you all to meet my council." Mirror Sombra then pointed to each of his council members." Justices Flim and Flam. Scholar Derpy. Duchess Chrysalis, and Princess Trixie." He then smiled. "Sorry to have worried you my friends. But I assure you that my absence has brought us some much needed assistance."

Mirror Chrysalis noticed Celestia. "As well as returning your heart to its usual shine." She said with a giggle.

"Indeed." Mirror Sombra said with a nod before walking over to Celestia. "It's been far too long dearest. I've missed you so much..." And Mirror Sombra kissed Celestia. Both sets of Elements were shocked. However, they all backed away from Burst when they saw his eyes shrink to pinpricks.

Burst stood completely still for a moment before slowly advancing towards Celestia just as she pullled Mirror Sombra off of her. "Excuse me. But could you tell me what reason you have for kissing her?" Burst asked calmly.

"Oh? She never told any of you?" Mirror Sombra asked. "Dear Celestia and I were a couple a thousand years ago."

Burst was shocked. "....Well, maybe she hasn't told you about me. Currently I'm the one who's dating her and Nightmare Moon."

"My apologies." Mirror Sombra said with a small bow. "But surely if you have two girlfriends, you could spare me my dearest?"

Burst narrowed his eyes, and looked Mirror Sombra right in the eye. "I made the mistake of letting her go once. To someone who appeared civil like you, but was little more than a monster. One that used her to try and emotionally destroy me. And I'm not going to make that same mistake again."

"I assure you my friend." Mirror Sombra said calmly. "I would never do anything to harm her so. I...could never imagine doing so much harm to her."

Burst groaned. "If you love Celestia so much, why haven't you tried to form a relationship with this world's Celestia?"

"If only you knew." Mirror Sombra said sadly. "My world's Celestia is the complete opposite of yours. As cruel as yours is kind. I honestly could never see myself loving someone such as her."

Burst frowned. "Then maybe you could change her." Burst then gestured to the Elements of Harmony. "I've seen these girls reform those who were thought to be beyond saving." His mind then flashed to Moon. "I've even helped someone move on from a dark chapter in their lives."

"There is no changing her." Mirror Sombra answered. "I've pleaded with her many times to change her ways. But my words are wasted on deaf ears."

"You really think that's all it takes? Words?" Burst said. "You need to do actions to back them up. Maybe you just haven't tried hard enough! Or maybe..." Burst then shifted into his nightmare form! Staring Mirror Sombra down! "You're just too scared of your own dark side." The whole room was silent. And Mirror Sombra was rooted in place with his face frozen in shock. "Huh. Didn't expect that to-"

"GUARDS!" Mirror Sombra screamed as the doors burst open with whatever active guards stormed into the room! Surrounding Burst! "KILL HIM!" All of the guards raised their spears at Burst!

Burst blinked. "Whoa. Could all of you just chill for a moment?" One of the guards jabbed their spear at Burst! "Hey!" Burst exclaimed as he stepped back! "What's the deal?!"

"The 'deal' is you!" Mirror Sombra snapped as he pointed at Burst! " How did a being of darkness like you come to be so close to my sweet Celestia?! That very form, it's clear you've been ensnared by the power that once held control over the sister of my beloved! I'll not allow you to harm her!"

Burst sighed. "I really don't wanna do this. But you're not givng me much of a choice." Burst pulled out Bahamut Aether from his belt, and activating it! The blue blade of light making the eyes of his nightmare form glow slightly. Burst then slashed at the bladed potions of the guards' spears! Leaving them little more than sticks. "I don't want any of your to get hurst. Please. Just back away now." The guards were a bit shocked at hearing this, and backed away slowly. Some of them stumbling backwards as they backed away. Burst then turned his gaze to Celestia. "Celestia? Could you tell me why your ex sicked his guards on-?!" Burst leaped back to avoid a massive blast of magic! He then saw Mirror Sombra's hand smoking from the blast!

"I won't let you lay a finger on her monster!" Mirror Sombra spat as he summoned a crystal cage to protect Celestia! "You'll have to get past me if you want her!"

Burst blinked in confusion. "What are you talking about?"

"I know all too well about the power and madness that form brings!" Mirror Sombra scowled at Burst! "The same power that drove Celestia's sister mad! And now it seems that you've been consumed by it as well! How could she ever love a beast like you?!"

Burst took a deep breath before getting into a fighting stance. "Looks like we're doing this the hard way. Time to see what you're made of."

"I'll show you!" Mirror Sombra summoned a sword made out of magical crystal! "My sword shall pierce that dark heart of yours!" Mirror Sombra charged at Burst! Swinging with as much force as possible! However, Burst blocked every one of his strikes!

"You're not focused." Burst noted as he raised Bahamut Aether to block another strike. "Losing composure in a fight can put you in a pretty bad position."

Mirror Sombra glared at Burst! "Don't you dare lecture me about composure!" He then fired a blast of magic! Which Burst deflected by using his sword's light blade! "WHAT?!" Sombra was then sent flying by a shot from one of Burst's Twin Burst blasters! But Mirror Sombra was far from finished! I don't have to beat him. I just need to stall him! Mirror Sombra slowly got to his feet. Seeing Burst waiting for him. "You seem to be quite courteous despite your darker impulses in the driver's seat." Mirror Sombra then noticed his council channeling the experiemental magic he'd been developing. "However. I believe this is my victory."

Burst was confused. But was soon he screamed in pain! "AAAGH!" Burst was hit full force with a blast of harmony magic! Still in his nightmare form, and knocked out cold from the blast!

"Take him to the dungeon." Mirror Sombra commanded a few of the guards. The guards put cuffs on Burst, and escorted Burst to the dungeon. Mirror Sombra then deconstructed the crystal cage around Celestia. "Worry not my dear. That monster won't troubly y-"

"What were you thinking?!" Celestia demanded! "Burst wasn't trying to hurt anyone!"

Mirror Sombra blinked. "But...that form-"

"Is one he's used before." Celestia answered. "In fact, the first time he gained that form was just so he could protect me. And he's been in complete control of it." Celestia sighed. "Darkness isn't as evil as you think it is. Just what about Burst using this form gave you reason to react so unstable?"

Mirror Sombra shook his head. "It's nothing. Nothing at all."

Mirror Canterlot Castle. Dungeons.
"Nnnghh..." Burst groaned as he woke up. He then noticed that he was in a cell, his hands cuffed together, and still in his nightmare form. "Well, never expected to wind up like this." Burst muttered to himself before looking at the two guards. "Could you two move aside? I don't want either of you getting hurt."

One of the guards scoffed. "Not likely monster. You've been rendered powerless by the harmony blast the council was developing."

Burst sighed. "Why do I have to prove you wrong?" Burst then broke his cuffs as he rose from his seat. Both guards were speechless! "Now. Please move aside." The guards nodded slowly. "Thanks." Burst then kicked the cell door down, and summoned his Duelist Arms back to him. "All I need now is directions to the throne room." One of the guards nervously handed Burst a map of the castle. "Oh. Thanks dude!" And with that Burst followed the map back to the throne room. "Hey everyone! What did I miss?"

"I was being read the riot act." Mirror Sombra answered. "It's clear that I jumped to conclusions regarding this dark form of yours. I apologize."

"Cool." Burst answered. "So. Why aren't you interested in this world's Celestia?"

Mirror Sombra sighed. "As I said before. She's cruel and has constantly tormented my kingdom."

"But was she always this way?" Burst asked. "I can tell that's not the only reason you're hesitant towards her." Burst slowly approached Mirror Sombra. "Like I said. Maybe you could be the one to change her."

Mirror Sombra sighed. "She is unwilling to change. I've already told you that."

"No. That's only half of it." Burst said with a frown. "That's not the only reason you've failed to get through to her. You've got yourself to blame as well. Because you're afraid, aren't you?" Burst looked Mirror Sombra right in the eye, and nodded slowly. "Yeah. I see it now. You're scared she'll bring out the side of you that you don't want to think about. Because she's what you think you will be if you give way to your darker side. The side that you choose to ignore."

Mirror Sombra snapped his head in Burst's direction. "Yes. I AM afraid. I've been afraid for so long! Ever since Celestia told me of your world's Sombra! How he became a tyrant because he gave into the darker impulses within him! How he made many suffer! And when I see my world's Celestia, that fear is magnified! Because I'm afraid I'll turn out just like him!"

"Oh for the love of-!" Burst facepalmed. "You want to know how I got my nightmare form? I didn't get it by being scared of my darkside. Or trying to repress it. I got this form because I made my peace with the darkness inside me. What you're doing to yourself? It's only going to make things worse for you." Burst sighed. " To deny that your dark side exists, it's the same as denying a part of you. Sure. It can give you some pretty negative suggestions. But if you're willing to talk things out with it, you'll be surprised its more than willing to listen. That's why I can access this form so easily. Because I accept that my dark side is a part of me. And upon this fact, you make me sick." Burst stared coldly at Mirror Sombra. "It's easy to see why Celestia fell for you. I even got a little jealous that I wasn't the first one to make her so happy. You're a good ruler, and an even better guy. But how can you claim to be better than the villains you're fighting when you're too scared to face your dark half?" Burst then walked up to Mirror Sombra, and stared him down. "How could I ever be jealous of a glass king like you?" Burst then turned to Celestia, and his gaze softened. "We'll talk later." Burst then returned to his regular form, and walked out.

Celestia looked to Mirror Sombra. "Why did you hide this from me?"

"Because I was afraid you'd hate that part of me." Mirror Sombra answered shamefully. "You made me so happy. And I never wanted to lose you. Because I love you so much."

Celestia sighed. "I loved you too. But how can I love you if you're so scared to accept yourself?" Celestia looked sadly into Mirror Sombra's eyes. "You want me. But I don't know if I'm the one you need." Celestia then turned to leave. "But Burst needs me now. And I want to help him. Help I'd have been more than happy to give you if you were willing to show me all of you."

Shards

Mirror Castle of the Two Sisters. Throne Room.
Mirror Celestia sat impatiently on her throne. Tapping her fingers against the arm of her throne. "Those fools better not have gotten themselves lost." She grumbled to herself. Sure enough, Mirror Burst and his team, six in total, came through the doors. "I've half a mind to incinerate you for delaying me so long. Were it not for the fact you lot serve as impressive replacements for the army I wished to construct."

"Didn't know you cared." Mirror Burst said with a sneer. "So you've seen what we can do. Now. What do you want us to do next?"

Mirror Celestia cracked a dark smile. "It's likely little Sombra is quite shaken up from your little encounter. Now? I'd like to shatter him at his core. Hope you all planned on visiting Canterlot."

"Heh! Always wanted to trash a city." Mirror Burst said with a smirk. "C'mon boys. We're gonna have a grand old time." As the group of brutes walked, each member of Mirror Burst's team decided to give their input on their orders.

"Man. What a drag." Mirror Inferno moaned. "Couldn't you guys just leave me behind with my tunes?"

Mirror Tyrannus huffed in response. "You're such a stiff, you know that? You barely do a thing while I take care of the heavy destruction." Mirror Tyrannus then scowled. "In fact, I don't know why I'm bothering hanging around shrimps like you. Much less taking orders from-!" Mirror Tyrannus gasped for air when he saw Mirror Burst's hand on his neck! Grasping tightly as Mirror Tyrannus struggled to breathe!

"Simple. Bigger doesn't equal stronger." Mirror Burst said with a sneer. "You'd do well to remember that. Because I'm not one who takes kindly to those who question my power. You want more proof? Next time you'll wake up in Tartarus. We clear?" Mirror Tyrannus slowly nodded. "Good." Mirror Burst released his hold. "As for why Inferno's with us, he's just a space-filler." But as they walked, another presence was sensed. "So. The teacher's pet is getting jealous, is she?"

Mirror Twilight stepped out from the shadows. "You're darn right I am! How could the princess trust such an important job to punks like you?!"

"What're you going to do about it?" Mirror Burst tautned. "Lecture me?"

Mirror Twilight smirked. "Something like that." She then fired a powerful blast of magic that sent Mirror Burst reeling. "Not so high and mighty now, are we?" She was then shocked when Mirror Burst stood up and stretched. "Wh-what?!"

"Well, well. You never told me that you could hit that hard." Mirror Burst said with a dark smile as he approached Mirror Twilight. "Don't think I'll forget this. I'll be expecting more out of you when I get back here." Mirror Burst turned, and resumed his group's departure.

Mirror Canterlot Castle.
Burst stared down at the city below. He'd since returned to his natural form. However, the previous verbal bout he'd gone through with Mirror Sombra still rang fresh in his mind. As well as how he'd reacted when Mirror Sombra kissed Celestia right in front of him. Burst sighed. "Maybe I got a little too hasty back there."

"So...how are you feeling?" Celestia asked nervously.

Burst turned to face her. "I feel hurt. A little bit betrayed."

"All of which I really can't fault you for." Celestia said with a sigh. "I'm sorry. I should have told you that, well, you weren't the first to be my boyfriend."

Burst blinked. "Actually? I figured that I wasn't the first one to date you." He then stared deep into Celestia's eyes. "I'm just a little bit jealous that I wasn't the first one to make you feel that you weren't alone. Or at least, I was. But all this begs the question: When did you two meet?"

"It was during the darkest chapter of my life." Celestia said sadly. "Not too long after Luna and Moon were bansihed to the moon. I discovered the mirror world. And I was in complete awe of what lay beyond the mirror." Celestia then looked to the sky with a sad smile. "It was the world that I had wanted most during that time. My sister was still on Equestria, and was loved by the kingdom. Sombra was a good and noble king who loved his subjects as I love mine. And in time, the two of us came to love one another. It was a world filled with everything I wanted. Everything...I knew I couldn't have." Celestia then turned her gaze to Burst. "But that's no longer the case. Because of you Burst."

Burst slowly smiled. "That one little promise I made held a lot of weight, didn't it?"

"And yet you kept your promise." Celestia then advanced towards Burst. "And you gave so much more. I won't lie. Sombra spoiling me while we were dating? It was nice. But you just see me as a regular person. That's done more for me than anyone has before. It's part of why Moon and I love you so much." Celestia then cupped Burst's face, and smiled lovingly.

Burst blushed lightly. "So...what's the other part?"

"Because all of you loves all of Moon and me." Celestia answered. "I knew that the moment you held me in your arms when you first transformed into your nightmare form. When I looked into your eyes. They were still the eyes of my dragon knight. The one I love so much." The two of them closed their eyes, and the distance between themselves, with a kiss. They would've been lost in it if the rest of their group and Mirror Chrysalis collectively "Aaaw"-ing at the affectionate display.

Burst blinked before smirking. "I'm guessing the two of us are giving you all the right idea?"

"You got that right." Inferno said with a chuckle. Each of the Elements of Heroism who were dating a member of the Main 6 soon took hold of their respetive girlfriend.

Mirror Chrysalis sighed happily. "I've never seen purer loves before now." Her mind then snapped as she came to a realization. "Well, save for the love Sombra had, still has for Celestia. But...maybe I shouldn't have said that."

"Hey, don't worry." Burst said with a small smile. "We came here because you needed help. And just because your Sombra still has feelings for Celestia, that doesn't give us an excuse to up and ditch you when we're needed. We've got a job to do, and a world to save." Burst raised his fist to the air. "Heroes to the core!"

"HEROES TO THE CORE!" The rest of the Elements of Heroism shouted as they raised their fists to the air as well! A guard soon came, and announced that Mirror Sombra and his council had called a meeting to discuss the coming battle against Mirror Burst and his gang.

"So. What do we know about my counterpart so far?" Burst asked.

Mirror Sombra took a deep breath. "Not much. Except for a few chilling facts that still haunt me from our first encounter. Part of the reason as for why I reacted so frantically when you transformed was because your nightmare form bares a striking resemblance to your counterpart's. Also, your counterpart seems to revel in fighting. Most evident when he engaged the force I'd assembled to face him. Lastly, he appears to be under the employ of the dark sisters." Mirror Sombra shivered at the memory. "And most disturbing of all is that he said he'd be bringing along some 'friends' upon his return."

"Yeah? Well you've called in some pretty powerful friends of your own." Steel said with a smirk. "We've got skills, AND numbers! They don't stand a chance!"

Rainbow Dash grinned. "Plus, you've got the six of us too! With two teams of elements, this'll be a piece of cake!" The group was about to share a laugh when the sound of something pounding against the city gate was heard going off in the city below! The group scrambled to a nearby balcony, and their eyes went wide as the entire city was starting to get whipped into a panick as the banging got louder and louder! One final crash of sound, and Mirror Burst and his gang of five stormed into Canterlot! Immediately trashing the city!

"Looks like they've decided to play in your house." Burst said as he looked at Mirror Sombra. "Well. Time to show them what happens when they trash other people's homes! C'mon guys! Let's rock the dragon!" Burst led the Elements of Heroism while Twilight led the Main 6! However, when Burst and the guys saw their counterparts wreaking havoc, they were horrified. Not only because they seemed to utterly enjoy the destruction, but because it was them. Their own faces reflected in a mirror darkly. The guys' counterparts ceased their rampage, and stared at their counterparts.

"Hmph." Mirror Tyrannus scoffed. "Your face annoys me. You look like a nice guy. I hate that."

Tyrannus glared at his counterpart. "Is it wrong that I hate myself?"

"Not in the least." Akage answered. "First time I've ever made myself sick."

Mirror Akage rolled his eyes. "You've the looks of one who does not take your position seriously."

"At least your counterparts look invested." Inferno noted. "Mine looks like he doesn't even wanna be here!"

Mirror Inferno shrugged. "Really don't want to. But hey. It's not like I was gonna do anything better."

"Ugh!" Mirror North groaned. "Mine looks so clean! I think I'm going to go blind just looking in his direction!"

Mirror Steel scowled at Steel! "I hear ya. Mine looks like such a straight arrow. How dull."

"Yeah? My honor keeps my edge sharp!" Steel shot back!

Burst merely stared at Mirror Burst. And Mirror Burst stared right back. "You're supposed to be me?" Mirror Burst asked in annoyance. He then looked over Burst's friends. "Guess your friends wanna tangle with mine. Let's see who's the broken reflection!" Both sets of counterparts charged at each other! Tyrannus locked fists with his counterpart! Only to send his dark reflection flying with one punch!

"The bigger the bully, the harder they fall." Tyrannus noted as he watched his counterpart fall to the ground again as soon as he tried to stand. "And I'd say you've fallen pretty hard."

At the same time, Akage was fighting his counterpart! The two of them were almost an even match. However, Akage held one key edge over his counterpart. He was good at taking it easy. Akage moved so fluidly as he dodged his counterpart's slashes. "Your movements are too tight." Akage noted as he tripped up his counterpart! He then cut through his counterparts regular steel blade with his plasma katana! "No room for flexibility."

Inferno was about to pull his blaster on his counterpart, but Mirror Inferno just shrugged and joined the other defeated counterparts."Well so much for an epic clash with my counterpart." Inferno said with a sigh. "But I guess I should've seen that coming. Since I'm so hot-blooded and involved, he's cold and distant."

Meanwhile, North and Steel were running their counterparts into the ground! "Wait!" Mirror Steel begged! "I give! I give!" He then proceeded to grovel! "J-Just don't hurt me anymore!"

Steel frowned. "Man. No dignity in defeat." Steel advanced on his counterpart, but leaped back when his counterpart swung at him with a knife! "I figured someone honorless like you would pull a dirty trick." Steel then flew at his counterpart! Sending him into a wall and knocking him out cold.

"Nice one Steel!" North cheered before pointing his shot blaster, Polarity, at his counterpart. Point blank. "Hopefull you're not as foolish as your friend back there." Mirror Borth gulped and walked slowly to the pile of defeated coutnerparts. "Good. All that leaves is Burst."

Burst and his counterpart were still staring each other down. Mirror Burst looked to his defeated gang, and scoffed. "Figures that I shouldn't have brought these losers along. In the end, I'm the only one who can get the job done. Besides. That would leave more fun for me." Mirror Burst said with a cruel smile.

"This is where your fun ends." Burst said sternly as he activated Bahamut Aether!

Mirror Burst smirked. "Let's see if I can beat myself!" Mirror Burst drew his sword and charged at Burst! Only for his blade to be cut down by Burst's sword! The remnants smoking from where it had been cut! "What the-?!" Mirror Burst barely had anytime to react when Burst punched him full force into the pile of defeated counterparts!

"Leave now." Burst said as he pointed Bahamut Aether at the pile of defeated counterparts. "I'll only ask this once. The next time, we'll finish what we started."

Mirror Burst scowled as he engaged an emergency teleport for his gang. Upon the rogues fleeing, all of Canterlot cheered! But the two sets of elements didn't stay to enjoy the praise. Meeting back with Mirror Sombra and his council back at the castle.

"It seems you weren't exaggerating their skills." Mirror Sombra noted as he finished reviewing footage from the battle.

Burst nodded. "It also looks like our counterparts haven't ascended like we have. Meaning they can still be destroyed if all else fails." Burst then locked eyes with Mirror Sombra. "But they're only a part of the problem. We need to take the fight to the root of the issue. We need to take this fight to Mirror Celestia."

"WHAT?!" Mirror Sombra screamed! "But-but that's insane! Even with an entire army behind me, I would scarcely make a dent in her power!"

Burst sighed. "Look. You've got a group of thirteen heroes who've beaten impossible odds and have taken down almost god-level threats. Some of us are Avatars now. Meaning we're immortal. No Sombra. The only weakness is within yourself. And you're going to have to face it." Burst then took a deep breath. "And you're going to be taught by me to do it."

"Wh-what?!" Mirror Sombra sputtered! "B-But that's impossible! I-I can't do it!"

Burst frowned. "Only if you don't believe you can't. It's not impossible. I've done it. You can too."

"NO!" Mirror Sombra screamed! "I can't! I don't believe I can! That part of me..."

Burst slapped Mirror Sombra across the face! "Only holds power over you if YOU let it!" Burst then gripped Sombra by the shoulder. "It's clear you don't believe in yourself. So don't. Believe in the me that believes in you."

"You...you would help me? Even after, well, that kiss I gave Celestia earlier?" Mirror Sombra asked.

Burst sighed. "I won't lie. I'm still just the least bit ticked at you for that. But if there's a chance you can change your world's Celestia for the better by facing your other half? It's clear you need some serious help with that." Burst then smirked. "And it's gonna be the most painful thing you're gonna experience."

Mirror Sombra gulped. "W-When do we begin?"

"Soon as you're willing to start." Burst replied. "You think your Celestia's your worst enemy? Trust me. Your dark side is going to be the toughest opponent you'll ever face."

Dark Reflection

Burst stood staring down Mirror Sombra in the throne room. "Are you sure that you're ready to do this? Because once you start this face-off with your dark side, there's no turning back."

"...How?" Mirror Sombra asked. "How did you manage to triumph over your darkness so easily?"

Burst sighed. "Like I said. I didn't triumph. I accepted it. I made my peace with it, and took the time to understand it. But that's because I never tried to supsress it or hide it. I've always known it was there. But for the most part? We get along really well. You? You've been too scared to even face it. Chances are? It's gonna be really angry at you."

"Oh..." Mirror Sombra gulped nervously. "...Is it too late to back out?" Burst nodded, and Mirror Sombra sighed. "Very well. So how do I begin?"

Burst shrugged. "For me? I faced my dark side in my dreams during a moment of heart break. You? You're going to have to look inside yourself and find it. And because you've kept it suppressed for so long, it'll probably be easy to find."

"Couldn't I just have someone magically drag it out so I can face it in the real world?" Mirror Sombr asked nervously.

Burst shook his head. "No. That would mean you're still scared to face it within your self. You can't take the easy way out of this. But let me give you some advice. Your dark side only has power if you keep acknowledging that it's not part of you. Ignoring it or saying it isn't a part of you only makes it stronger. And it also makes it harder to confront. But even with this hint, chances are you're going to have quite the ordeal. Plus, you putting this off is only gonna backfire."

"I get it..." Mirror Sombra said with a sigh. "You're right. No more delaying this." A dry laugh escaped his lips. "Truth be told? This is probably something I should've done long ago." Mirror Sombra closed his eyes, and shut the rest of the world away. And in doing so, he found himself within what he assumed to be his mind. Not a moment later, a door appeared before him. Made of sickly and jagged dark crystals. "Here goes nothing." Mirror Sombra reached out, and opened the door. He saw a throne made of dark crystal. Sure enough, he saw his dark side glaring at him from on top of the throne.

"I've been expecting you." Dark Side greeted. "But I've no wish to fight you. Instead, I wish to aid you."

Mirror Sombra blinked. "Help me with what?"

"Isn't it obivous? The thing you want most." Dark Side then conjured up an image of Celestia with his magic. "The one that you love so much. But there's a new obstacle in your path to being with her." The image then shifted to Burst Stream. "He's replaced you. You've waited so long. Loved Celestia so patiently. And what do you have to show for it? Being cast aside for him!" Dark Side then smirked. "But if you let me out, then I can make it so he's no longer a problem."

Mirror Sombra took a deep breath, and stared down his dark side. "No. It's true. I love Celestia with all of my heart. She's everything I've ever wanted. And everything I know I can't have." A bitter chuckle escaped his throat. "Our worlds aren't meant to intersect. The romance I had with her wasn't meant to last." Mirror Sombra said sadly. However, a small smile soon crept across his face. "But Burst? He can make her happy while I can't. He can actually be there for her. More than I could without risking our worlds merging. And if I truly love Celestia...then I should let her go."

"No..NO...NO!" Dark Side screamed! "You won't lock me away again! I won't go back to being ignored! For too long you've shut me out!"

Mirror Sombra steeled his gaze. "Then let it all out. I'm more than willing to listen."

"...What?" Dark Side asked with a puzzled look on his face.

"You heard right." Mirror Sombra said with a nod. "Go ahead. Scream. Yell. Howl about how I've done you wrong by keeping you locked away. Because you know what? You're right. I have wronged you. I've wronged myself. I've denied a part of who I was simply because I was afraid it would become all I would be. But I was wrong." Mirror Sombra held a pleading gaze at his dark side. "I'm sorry. For all that I've done to you. To us..." He then reached out his hand. "I accept you."

Dark Side slowly walked over to Mirror Sombra. "All I ever wanted to hear." Dark Side soon reverted to a mass of darkness, and merged back into Mirror Sombra.

Back in the real world, Mirror Sombra slowly opened his eyes. Burst noticed, and smiled. "So? How do you feel?"

"I feel...better." Mirror Sombra said with a smile. "More...whole. Did you feel something like this when you made your peace with your darkness?"

Burst shrugged. "Something like that. Now. Try to access the new power that comes with accepting and understanding your dark side."

"Right." Mirror Sombra focused, and the outer edges of his eyes soon were framed by a royal shade of purple. And his regular magic now crackled with an aura of black lightning. "This is incredible!" He then powered down. "So what happens now?"

Burst smiled. "Now we take the fight to the badguys. How do you want to go in your highness?"

"My world's Celestia would expect me to use strategy or conventional tactics. But now that I'm no longer scared of myself?" Mirror Sombra smiled confidently. "I've got no reason to be scared of her. Hope you're used to doing things explosively. We're storming the Castle of the Dark Sisters."

Burst then spun his Twin Burst blasters. "Then let's rock and roll."

Smash Through the Dark Mirror!

Mirror Sombra took a deep breath as he stared at the gates of the Castle of the Dark Sisters. "Well. No sense in delaying. CHARGE!" Burst nodded, and summoned his Chaos MAX Cannon! Firing a blast that brought the gates down! Mirror Sombra and the Elements of Heroism then charged in!

"Hey, where's all the guards?" Burst asked.

"My world's Celestia and Luna don't believe in having them. Namely because they're not scared to show just how strong they are." Mirror Sombra answered. "Meaning we'll probably be running into Luna soon enough. And chances are your counterparts are going to give us some trouble too!"

"Sooner than you think." Mirror Burst called out as he stood in the courtyard. "I've been waiting for a rematch." Mirror Burst glared at Burst. "You broke my sword last time. Not really fair to duke it out with weapons when I've got none on me."

Burst narrowed his eyes. "Just fists and magic? Works for me." Burst the activated his Chaos Form Armor! "Been waiting for a while to whip this out again." The two Bursts charged at each other! But Burst sent Mirror Burst reeling with one punch! "First we'll handle our counterparts. Then we can take care of Mirror Celestia and Luna!" Burst flew at his counterpart! Firing a powerful blast of chaos magic before reverting to his standard form. "I'm only gonna give you one chance to surrender."

"You really don't know me that well, do you?" Mirror Burst said with a sneer. "I live by one key policy: No mercy." Mirror Burst fired a powerful blast of magic at Burst! Burst countered with his own! "We might know the same tricks. But I've got different ways of using them!"

Burst frowned. "Tell me. Do you know this one?" Burst began to focus his energy and magic into his fist! A brilliant white and blue aura that surged with lightning covered his fist!

"Wh-what the-?!" Mirror Burst sputtered! "What is that thing?!"

Burst smirked. "You're gonna find out now!" Burst flew at his dark counterpart! "WHITE LIGHTNING..." Burst then punched Mirror Burst right in the chest! "OVERDRIVE!" As soon as Burst removed his fist, Mirror Burst started to ripple and distort as energy began to burst from his body! Trying desperately to keep himself together! "Looks like I've shattered my dark reflection."

"GRRRAAAAUUUGHHHH!" Mirror Burst screamed as he exploded in a burst of white lightning! Leaving nothing behind when the energy faded.

Burst turned to his friends, and noted their progress. Mirror Akage had cramped up and was groaning on the floor after trying to furiously slash at Akage, Mirror Inferno just decided to up and leave (which was most diappointing to Inferno), Tyrannus was literally wiping the floor with Mirror Ty, Steel and North were still beating down on their counterparts. "Yep. Seems about right." Burst then looked to Mirror Sombra. "Ready to take the fight right to the dark sisters?"

"This has been a long time coming. Time and time again, our clashes have ended in a stalemate." Mirror Sombra then took a deep breath. "Now? It's going to end with a certain victor. And it won't be them."

Burst smiled. "Then let's rock."

Throne room
Mirror Luna was in shock. Not only had the fighters her sister hired been easily dispatched, but Mirror Sombra had decided to storm into their castle! An act she'd never thought possible! "Celestia!" She cried as she burst into the throne room! "We're under attack! The enemy's breached through those mercenaries you hired and they're making their way here!"

"I figured those bunch of idiots wouldn't have fared that well." Mirror Celestia scoffed. "So who's foolish enough to come storming into our home?"

Mirror Luna gulped. "It's...Sombra. And a small band of warriors. Ones who bear a striking resemblance to those we hired."

"Sombra? Really?" Mirror Celestia asked with a bemused expression. "The same wimp who's scared of his own shadow? Get real! A gutless coward like him wouldn't-" Mirror Celestia was interrupted when the doors to the throne room were kicked down! Mirror Sombra and the Elements of Heroism calmly walked in. "....Well. This is certainly a surprise. Normally I'm the one that needs to make the first move."

Mirror Sombra steeled his gaze at Mirror Celestia. "Let's just say I've been working on myself." Mirror Sombra then flared his magic! But this time, now he had made peace with his dark half. And now black lightning crackled around his magic and purple light framed his eyes!

"You handle Mirror Celestia." Burst said. "I'll handle Luna." Burst charged at Mirror Luna! Firing blasts of magic, and reflecting any blasts of magic sent his way with Bahamut Aether!

Mirror Sombra and Mirror Celestia then locked gazes. "Ladies first." Mirror Sombra declared.

"Gladly." Mirror Celestia said with a sneer as she launched a fire ball at Mirror Sombra! Only for it to be intercepted by a wall of crystals! "All that power and you still go on the defensive?" Mirror Celestia then saw a pillar of crystal sprout up in front of her! She blasted the crystal apart, but wasn't expecting Mirror Sombra to charge at her! "Your tactics seem to be getting more offensive. If I didn't know any better, I'd say you're fighting like a true king now."

Mirror Sombra steeled his gaze. "It's because I'm no longer scared of myself. But you?" Mirror Sombra teleported right into Mirror Celestia's face! "Let's find out what scares you!" Mirror Sombra fired a fear spell right at Mirror Celestia's face! And as he saw her tremble in place, Mirror Sombra could see her fears clear as day. He then summoned nullification crystals, and enclosed them around Mirror Celestia's hands. "I'm sorry." He said as he placed a hand on her shoulder. "But now I know how I can help you." Mirror Sombra then saw Burst defeating Mirror Luna. However, Mirror Luna wasn't lying defeated. She was simply looking at her sister. "Don't worry. I'll help her every step of the way. I know this is what you've wanted."

"I just want my old sister back." Mirror Luna replied.

Mirror Sombra nodded as he looked to Burst. "It looks like the battle's over." Mirror Sombra encased Mirror Celestia in a crystal prison, and the group made their way back to Canterlot. The Elements of Heroism, Elements of Harmony, and Princess Celestia all stood before the mirror that led back to regular Equestria. "I truly can't thank you enough for your help. Without you, this wouldn't be possible."

"No problem." Burst said with a nod as he looked at Celestia. "I've got my happy ending. Time for you to forge your own." And with that, the group headed back through the mirror to their world.

Mirror Sombra then smiled to himself. "Indeed it is." Mirror Sombra then walked to the chamber he was holding Mirror Celestia in. He saw her sitting on the floor with a sullen expression on her face. "I've been hoping for a chance to talk like this."

"Of course you have." Mirror Celestia scoffed.

Mirror Sombra sighed. "I want to help you. I truly do. I know why you're the way you are."

"You don't know anything about me." Mirror Celestia said coldly.

Mirror Sombra shook his head. "You're wrong. I know deep down you're a lonely woman looking, hoping for someone to love her. And one who will do anything to obtain that love in her desperation." He then looked Mirror Celestia right in her eyes. "You want what your mirror counterpart had."

"So that's it? I'm jealous? Because I heard so much about how beloved the other Celestia was? Because I wanted what she had?! BECAUSE I WANTED YOUR HEART?!" Mirror Celestia screamed at Mirror Sombra as she brought her face against the wall of crystal! Staring him down! And then, she sunk to her knees. "Because you're right." She then just stared at the floor. "Do you know how maddening isolation can be? How I watched Luna become loved? How I saw everyone hail you as their leader? How the other Celestia fell for you? I wanted it. I wanted you. But in the end, I knew I couldn't. Because I knew I couldn't be her."

Mirror Sombra dematerialized the crystal prison around Mirror Celestia. "You want to know something? I couldn't be the one the other world's Celestia needed either. Because I was too scared of myself." A small chuckle escaped his lips. "How could I possibly love her if I can't even love all of myself?" Mirror Sombra then got down to Mirror Celestia's level. "The point is, we're both broken beings. But together? Maybe we can fix each other. We can be whole. But you have to want it."

"You would really...love me?" Mirror Celestia asked.

Mirror Sombra nodded. "I wanted the other world's Celestia. But you need me. The question is: Do you want my help?" Mirror Celestia broke into tears and buried herself in Mirror Sombra's chest. Mirror Sombra slowly wrapped his arms around her, and a small smile crept onto his face. No words were needed. Mirror Celestia raised her head to speak, but Mirror Sombra put a finger to her lips. "No words. Just this moment." That being said, Mirror Sombra then kissed Mirror Celestia. And his whole council looked on proudly. "Every king needs his queen. I'll help you become mine. Because I'll be yours."

Prologue

He couldn't believe it. This was just one fighter. And yet before him, the entire force he'd led to engage this one enemy all lay groaning on the fround. No one was dead, but that wasn't necessarily a good thing considering how badly beaten there were. Sombra had barely gotten to his feet, and gazed on in shock at the lone figure standing at the center of the battle field. "Who...who are you?"

"So. This is all the 'Good King Sombra' is capable of? You barely were a match for me." The figure scoffed. "As for why? Well, why not?" The figure's black coat seemed to flow with the wind that swept across the battlefield. As well as the long white hair. The figure then smirked. "Just imagine what fun me and my friends could've had here." The figure then threw his head back, and laughed. "HA HA HA HA HA HA!" The figure then stopped laughing. "Hope you can still hear. Because I've got something for you to remember." The figure then walked right up to Sombra's face, and sneered. "I'm Burst Stream. Let's just say you've got two really strong people who don't like you. Me? I wanted to see how your supposed strength compares to mine. How is a weakling like you even worthy of that crown?" Burst then walked away. "We'll be meeting again real soon. For your sake, I hope you bring someone who can actually fight me." He then spread his dragon wings, and flew off. Leaving Sombra and what was left of his forces to limp back home.

Once he was back at his castle, Sombra sat on the throne and dismissed his remaining forces. "Burst Stream...he's very powerful." Mirror Sombra said to himself as he contemplated the prior onslaught.

Let's just say you've got two really strong people who don't like you. Me? I wanted to see how your supposed strength compares to mine. How is a weakling like you even worthy of that crown? Burst Stream's words flashed in his mind.

"He will be back. I must be ready. There is but one way I can beat him. The mirror." Mirror Sombra got up, and made his way over to a mirror. The surface started to swirl and distort. Revealing what looked like another Equestria. "I will be there soon my love." And with that, Mirror Sombra stepped through the mirror. Into the Equestria that we know.

Intro song for the story: