Elements of Heroism: Season 5

Chapters

Episode 1: Solo Mission Part 1
Episode 3: Home Sweet Home
Episode 4: New Embers and Old Flames
Episode 7: Loyalty's Ascent
Episode 8: Heroic Desire, Dark Path
Episode 9: Reunion
Episode 10: Boundless Determination
Episode 11: Ascending Laughter
Episode 12: Catching Up
Episode 13: Doubts
Episode 14: Adamant Generosity
Episode 15: Wedding Bells
Episode 18: Changing for the Better
Episode 19: "Brothers"
Episode 20: Parallels
Episode 21: Nightmare's Light
Episode 22: Inner Demons
Episode 24: Malefic Menace Part 1
Episode 25: Malefic Menace Part 2
Episode 2: Solo Mission Part 2
Episode 5: Dancing in the Moonlight
Episode 6: Regret
Episode 16: How far we've come
Episode 17: The One That Got Away
Episode 23: Consolation

Episode 1: Solo Mission Part 1

Shadow got into a fighting stance and raised his Duelist Arm, Celestial Protector as he anticipated an attack coming from the two figures circling him. Sure enough, one of the two figures rushed him! Bringing their claymore's blade down hard on where Shadow stood! Shadow took to the air and swooped down! Slashing at the figure as he flew by! Shadow was about to slash at the other figure, but the figure blocked it with their shield before kicking Shadow in the gut!

While Shadow was winded from the blow to his gut, he was sent face first into the ground by a blast of energy! "Nnnngh..." Shadow soon lifted his head, and saw his brothers Ace and Ice offering their hands to him. "No...I can get myself up." Shadow groaned as he tore himself free of the small crater made by his fall. "Seriously. You two, Ty, Inferno and Burst are probably the strongest fighters we have so far and make up about half the Elements of Heroism."

"C'mon Shadow. Don't sell yourself short." Ace said with a kind smile. "You've gotten pretty good with your Duelist Arm. These training sessions have been paying off!" Ace then noticed Sonata waving him down. "Oh! I almost forgot Sonata was bringing us lunch today."

Ice nodded. "Perfect time for a break. Indigo's been dying to hear from me." Ice whipped out his phone, and started texting his girlfriend Indigo Zap. And Shadow couldn't help but sigh as he saw his brothers spending time with their special somebodies. Shadow was the youngest out of his brothers, and he'd always seemed to be dead last in terms of everything in his life. And he was still in last place. Both Ace and Shadow had ascended into Avatars, and were now immortal. But what really stung Shadow the most was that he still had yet to gain a girlfriend. Ace was chatting with Sonata, and Ice was texting Indigo Zap.

Forever alone. Shadow thought to himself. "I'm gonna eat at home. See ya." And with that, Shadow sulked off home. However, his mood had not gone unnoticed by his brothers.

"Hey, Ace?" Ice asked. "I think we need to do something for Shadow."

Ace blinked. "Well, what did you have in mind?"

"Hmm. Shadow's not been through any major changes. Or had any impressive hero moments so far." Ice said as he scratched his chin. "Maybe we could give him a solo mission. That way he can feel better about himself."

Ace smiled. "That sounds like a good idea. But maybe you've forgotten that Equestria's at peace right now?" Ace then sighed. "And if we pretend that there's some threat, that would just send Shadow on a wild goose chase." The brothers groaned in frustration. "There's gotta be something we can do for Shadow."

"Maybe you could check with Twilight and her friends?" Sonata suggested. "Think about it! They're usually the first ones to know when some major stuff is going down. Plus, since Twilight's a princess now, she's bound to be the first to know about all kinds of major events!"

Ace scooped Sonata up in a hug! "Sonata you're the best!" Sonata happily returned the hug. Albeit a bit too enthusiastically. "Love you...too..." Ace wheezed as Sonata squeezed him tightly! Fortunately, he was soon released from her loving, yet crushing embrace. "Next stop: Twilight's castle!" Ace and Ice flew off to Twilight's castle, and knocked on the door.

"Ace? Ice? You two need something?" Spike asked.

Ace nodded. "Yeah. Has Twilight been notified of anything important yet?"

"Hmm. No messages from Princess Celestia." Spike said as he scratched his chin. "But, there is something weird going on in the meeting room. Follow me." Spike led the two to the meeting room. Ace and Ice were shocked to see the Main 6 assembled before an odd map in the center of the room. "It just popped up all of a sudden. Now it's showing all of the girls' cutie marks gathering around one village. It's pretty freaky."

Ace and Ice smiled. "Hey, Twilight?" Ice asked.

"What is it Ice?" Twilight asked.

"Wherever this map is pointing you six to, it's gotta be pretty important." Ice began. "So it might be a good idea for you to have some extra back up. Shadow's got nothing better to do. So we figured we could spare him. You don't mind do you?"

Twilight scratched her chin in thought. "Well, I don't see why not. We'd be happy to have Shadow come along!"

"Great!" Ace said with a grin as he flew off to find Shadow and inform him of the good news. "Hey, Shadow!"

Shadow's ears perked up at hearing his brother call for him. "What's up Ace?"

"Twilight and the girls are headed for a village because a weird map is summoning them." Ace explained. "We figured you could use a change of pace. So we're sending you out with them as their bodyguard."

Shadow blinked. "Really? You guys are trusting me with an important mission like this? By myself? Why not send Burst, Inferno, or any of the other heavy-hitters? Or Steel since he's got tons of experience with being the captain of the Elite Guard?"

"To be honest? There's probably not a whole lot going on with the village the girls are being sent to." Ace said with a shrug. "It should be uneventful. But that doesn't make your job any less important. Think you're up for it?"

Shadow jumped to his feet, and saluted! "You know it! I won't let you down!" Shadow bolted back to he and his brothers' house, and soon exited with a backpack and his Duelist Arm in tow. "Time to hit the road!" And with that, Shadow journeyed along with the Main 6 to the village they were being called to. However, Shadow felt his element stir within him as soon as they arrived at the village's entrance. Shadow closed his eyes, and concentrated. There's so much sorrow here. The air's almost thick with misery and longing. Almost like the people here have been stripped of themselves. And as soon as Shadow and the Main 6 came across the first villager, he could tell something was wrong. For starters, all the villagers had what was essentially the same hairstyle. But the most unsettling were the wide, unnatural smiles upon each of the villagers' faces. Ace was wrong. Something is DEFINITELY wrong here. Very wrong if it needs Twilight and the girls to come here. I've got a bad feeling about this. The villager they were speaking too was about to break into song, but Shadow put a hand on his shoulder. "Listen. I'm sure this place is lovely. But we're not here for a tour. We're here to find out what's going on here. Like why everyone has the same hairstyle."

"Oh that's easy!" The villager answered. Still maintaining the plastered smile. "The reason is we've given up our cutie marks! And thus, we are all the same. All equal!"

Shadow and the Main 6 were in shock at how gleefully the villager had made that statement. "Oh. That's....very nice for you." Shadow said with a nervous smile. Yeah. This all screams creepy. These people are more of a cult than a village! "So...who's in charge of this place?"

"That would be me." A light pale purple Magi woman said as she stepped out. She had a violet skirt that fell to her ankles, and wore a plain long sleeve shirt. But what was most unusual was the sign that replaced the mark of her mana center on one of her arms. Normally, the mark took the shape of a Magi's cutie mark. But instead there was an equal sign. "Welcome to Our Town. I am Starlight Glimmer. The leader of this perfect little town."

Shadow frowned. "No place is perfect. Neither are people for that matter."

"Obviously you don't know the happiness we know." Starlight said with a smug smile. "You see, we've come to realize the truth that comes with cutie marks. That they bring nothing but isolation because everyone has a different talent that separates them from everyone else. But to denounce that individuality, that pain, is to be free!"

Twilight shot Starlight a dirty look. "You say that you've given up cutie marks. How is that possible? A cutie mark is a part of who you are."

"There's plenty of holes in your logic too." Shadow noted.

Starlight frowned. "Oh? And just what would that be?"

"For one, everyone already IS equal." Shadow began. At hearing this, all the villagers began to gather. "Let's take a look at this village for a minute. You've got Earthbounds, Magic, and Skyborn here. All of them are different, right?" A few of the villagers murmured in agreement. "But that's what makes you all the same! None of you living here are from the exact same tribe! But at the same time, you're all human! Yet you still retain differences between yourselves with color, voice, and tribe." The murmuring of the villagers grew louder. "So even though you're all different people, that's what you have in common. Or rather, what you had." Shadow took a moment to look over the crowd before continuing. "Something that everyone in Equestria has in common too. No one person is completely alike. So by our differences, we're all the same."

Starlight was furious beyond belief. "But! That! What?! How?! AGGGHH!" Starlight clutched her head in frustration!

"You don't have to instantly accept the words we're saying." Shadow said as he walked over to Starlight. "But I do expect that you think on them. I beg of you. Consider what I've said. It'll give everyone here a chance to be happy." He then put a hand on her shoulder. "And it might give you a chance to heal too." Shadow and the Main 6 left the village, and decided to camp outside it for the night. Starlight just snorted as she watched them leave, and stormed back into her house.

Meanwhile, Shadow and the Main 6 were setting up camp. "Man, this village just screamed creepy!" Rainbow Dash said as she helped to hold the tent frame steady. "I think Moon's gonna be busy burning those weird smiles from my dreams tonight."

"Totally!" Pinkie added. "I could tell those smiles were fake!"

Shadow nodded in agreement. "If anyone knows what a real smile is, it'd be the Element of Laughter herself." Shadow had just finished up setting his tent.

"Hey, Shadow?" Twilight asked. "How did you know those villagers were sad when they had those fake smiles plastered on their faces?"

Shadow put a hand over his heart. "I tapped into my element of heroism. Being the Element of Compassion, I can sense when other are hurting or hiding some form of sadness or pain. That way I can try to help them. Plus, I could never turn a blind eye to people who need help. But do you think it's even possible to remove the cutie mark of a person?"

"To be honest? I don't know." Twilight said with a sigh. "But Starlight Glimmer must have access to some sort of powerful magic if she's been able to strip these villagers of a piece of themselves."

Shadow stretched. "Well, that's a mystery to solve tomorrow. Right now? I think we could all do with some rest." Shadow then saw Twilight raise a barrier spell around the tent. "Looks like I won't have to worry about standing guard. Good night girls." And with that, Shadow crawled into his sleeping bag. Staring at the roof of it deep in thought. So much for this being a standard guard duty mission. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't wishing something like this would happen. But now? Now I'm just hoping that I don't screw this up. Shadow's thoughts then turned to Starlight. Because more than anything, that girl needs some compassion. Shadow closed his eyes, and tried his best to maintain a restful sleep. Hoping that tomorrow would herald a bright outcome.

Episode 3: Home Sweet Home

Twilight stirred as she rose from her bed. And she couldn't help but sigh as she woke up and headed for the kitchen. She and her friends had just visited a village where all the villagers were pretty much a cult. And on top of that, she still felt out of place in her castle. True, she didn't mind living here. However, the loss of her library was still fairly fresh in her mind.

Nightfall and Spike looked up from the breakfast they had prepared, and smiled. "Morning Twilight." Nightfall said with a smile. "Thought you might appreciate some breakfast after what you and the girls went through."

"Thanks Night." Twilight said with a smile as she kissed Nightfall. "I'll serve myself." Twilight poured herself some coffee, and stacked up a few pancakes. However, both Nightfall took note of Twilight's mood.

"Hey, is everything alright Twilight?" Nightfall asked. "You're looking kind of down still."

Twilight perked up a bit at hearing this. "Oh. I guess I'm still getting used to this castle. It feels a bit more like home with you and Spike here. But the old library had so many memories attached to it."

"Hmm." Nightfall stroked his chin in thought. "I'm gonna take a walk. You know. Get my stomach settled." Nightfall grabbed his signature oil-stained lab coat, and headed out the door. Quickly texting the rest of the Main 6 to meet up at the town square. Nightfall smiled at seeing them gathering. "Glad you all could make it. I've gotta ask, have any of you noticed Twilight trying to stay out of her castle as much as possible?"

Fluttershy nodded. "Actually, yes. She does seem to be hesitant to return to her castle. I noticed it after she was helping me bathe my animal friends."

"I was afraid of that." Nightfall said with a sigh. "The old library getting destroyed is still pretty fresh in her mind. So many of her memories are attached to that place. And now that it's gone? It's hard for her to get used to a new place."

Rarity furrowed her brow at hearing this. "But darling, aren't you her boyfriend now? Surely with you and Spike by her side the castle must feel like home."

"True enough. But we're only two people." Nightfall said sadly. "The library? That's where all of you have shared so many memories. Twilight's gone on for hours about the times she'd spend with all of you at the library. And I'll admit I've got my share of fond memories of the library too." Nightfall then looked to each of the girls. "That's why I need your help. I want to make Twilight's castle feel more like home."

Applejack walked over, and patted Nightfall on the back. "We're with ya sugarcube! And Ah think we all know how we can make Twilight's castle more like home! C'mon!" And with that, the girls took Nightfall along for the ride as they grabbed various items that they felt would make Twilight's castle feel more like home. However, Nightfall noticed something off about the various items the rest of the Main 6 had gathered and started to place around the castle. Namely that they all reflected the girls' tastes. And the girls soon noticed too as they found that their styles all clashed with each other. "Girls? I don't think this is gonna work."

"True." Rarity said with a nod as she looked over the clashing styles. "Maybe we could all do with a little bit of removal of all this clutter?" The group nodded in agreement, and started to remove their styles piece by piece. Satisfied only when all the clutter was completely removed.

Rainbow Dash sighed. "Well, great. Now we're back to square one."

"Maybe...that's where we need to be." Nightfall said as he scratched his chin in thought. "Think about it. Where was the place all of you felt at home? The place where your memories with Twilight originate?"

The girls' eyes went wide with realization. "I know where that is!" Pinkie chirped as she grabbed the group, and dashed off to the remains of the Golden Oak Library.

"Well we're where we need tah be." Applejack noted. "But there's not much we can do with it. There's nothing left but the stump."

Rarity slowly smiled. "I think that just might be what we need." About an hour or two later, a chandelier made of the roots adorned with gems that were imbued with Twilight's memories. "I think this should just about do it!" The group then set the chandelier above the cutie map, and surprised Twilight with it! Nightfall smiled as he saw Twilight smile.

Now for my own surprise for Twilight. Nightfall thought as he retreated to his workshop. Working on his own gift to the Princess of Friendship.

One week later
"Still keeping your eyes closed Twilight?" Nightfall asked with a smile as he kept his hands over Twilight's eyes.

Twilight giggled. "I don't have to since you're still covering them with your hands!" Twilight placed one of her hands over Nightfall's. "Night, just what is this surprise you have for me?"

"You're about to find out. We're here." Nightfall answered as he removed his hands. "Though it's gone, it stands forever in our memories." Twilight's jaw dropped. Before her stood a hologram of Golden Oaks Library with a plaque dedicated to it on a pedestal. "I know you always see it here. So I wanted to make sure everyone else did too." Nightfall was caught off-guard when Twilight tackled him with a hug. "So...did you like it?"

Twilight was starting to cry tears of joy as she planted her lips on Nightfall's. "I love it. Ironic that the Element of Heart's stolen mine."

"What can I say?" Nightfall said with a smirk. "Like I said before, you've enchanted me. Say, you think your sister in-law ships us?"

Twilight giggled. "If she does, I bet she ships us hard. But enough talking. More lip-lock."

"By your command princess." Nightfall said playfully before resuming their kiss.

Episode 4: New Embers and Old Flames

"...And then I turned into my true form and scared her witless!" Narico joked as he and Abyss sat on a bench in the park. "That's how I made three great friends who really made this town feel like home."

Abyss couldn't help but laugh at Narico's story. "You certainly made quite the first impression on your first day." Abyss then took a hold of Narico's hand. "Sorry if me having to come in from Canterlot keeps you waiting."

"N-No!" Narico protested. "I don't mind waiting for you to arrive. If you didn't...who would be waiting at the train station to greet you?"

Abyss giggled. "You're sweet." She then kissed Narico on his forehead minding his horn. "And here I thought changelings didn't know what love truly was." She then nuzzled against Narico. "I can't help but lose my sense of time when I'm with you. Sometimes it feels like an instant, and other times and eternity."

"I could say the same thing." Narico let out a fond sigh. "Speaking of time, what is it right now?"

Abyss checked her watch. "Oh. It's about three."

"Crap!" Narico cursed as he sprang to his feet! "Sorry to cut this short, but I gotta go! The CMC are gonna be ticked at me for being late! Bye!" Narico took off as fast as his insect wings could take him! And Abyss couldn't help but smile as she saw him fly off.

Despite his appearance, he stays young at heart. Abyss thought.

The CMC Clubhouse
"Sorry I'm late!" Narico panted as he collapsed onto the floor of the clubhouse. "I lost track of time and had to bolt my way over here."

Scootaloo scratched her head. "You've been showing up late a lot lately Narico. Something going on?"

"Oh. Well..." Narico smiled fondly as he thought back to his date with Abyss. "I was spending time with a...really good friend."

Sweetie Belle narrowed her eyes, and decided to inspect Narico. And a small smirk crept across her face. "I know that look. Rarity gets it whenever she's with Inferno! You have a girlfriend!"

"Oh man!" Scootaloo facepalmed! "I SO should've seen that coming! Rainbow Dash blushes like crazy whenever she thinks about Steel!"

Apple Bloom nodded. "Yeah! Kinda like how mah big sis gets all giggly when North's around!" The CMC then all frowned. "Hey...when were you gonna tell us you had a special somebody?"

"Wait. I was supposed to tell other people?" Narico asked with a confused look. "The only other people who know about me dating Abyss are Aria and Fang."

Sweetie Belle then leaped to her feet and tried to drag along Narico! "Well better late than never! Come on! We've gotta tell all your friends! They'll be so happy for you!" And with that, Narico and the CMC set out to tell all of his friends about his current romance. Everyone sounded pretty happy for Narico finding his first love. And he couldn't help but beam with some pride that he'd come far in their eyes.

"Well now that everyone knows, I guess all that's left is to introduce Abyss to everyone." Narico said with a sigh of relief. "It'd be rude to keep everyone waiting." Narico texted Abyss about meeting all his friends tonight. And he smiled when he saw her reply. "Perfect. Looks like she'll be able to make it." That evening, Narico waited at one of the benches at the train station. Equal parts excited and nervous to see Abyss. Sure enough, the train pulled into the station. And Narico's jaw dropped when he saw Abyss. She was wearing a medium grey dress, and a smile on her lips. "Gee. Now I feel a bit under-dressed."

Abyss giggled at Narico's realization. "I think that's how you look best. So are you going to keep your friends waiting?"

"Not in the least." Narico said with a smile as he led Abyss by the hand to Twilight's castle. "Hi everyone! I thought you might like to meet the woman of my dreams who's captured my heart. It's my pleasure to introduce her." Abyss then stepped out from behind Narico. "This is Abyss."

Abyss smiled at the assembled group. "Pleased to meet you all. Narico's told me a lot about you all. I must say, I certainly didn't expect him to have friends in such high places." Each of the group introduced themselves to Abyss, but Abyss stopped when Burst came up to greet her.

"Is something wrong?" Burst asked with a puzzled look on his face. "Did I get something on my face?"

Abyss stood still. Rooted in place as she analyzed Burst's appearance. "You look so much like your father."

"You know my dad?" Burst asked. "How?"

Abyss then shook her head. "Oh. He must not have told you. Forget I said anything. I'm just happy Aether found someone to settle down with."

The rest of the visit went on as per usual, but Burst was curious as to how Abyss knew his father. So who better to ask than dear old dad? Burst dialed up his dad's number. "Hey, Dad? Can I ask you something?"

"Sure Burst." Aether said over the phone. "So what's on your mind lately?"

"Well, you dated a few women before you settled down with Mom, right?" Burst began. "Does the name Abyss bring up any old flames?" And on the other end of the phone, Aether immediately hung up. "Dad? What's wrong? Dad?"

Aether flew as fast as he could toward Ponyville. Landing in front of Twilight's castle, and throwing the doors open. Everyone in shock at his sudden arrival, but none more so than Abyss. Abyss looked to everyone else. "Could all of you leave the two of us alone for a moment? There's a bit of business we need to discuss." As everyone left, Abyss was soon alone with Aether. "You haven't aged a day."

"You've certainly grown." Aether said with a nod. "I didn't think I'd be seeing you again. So what brought you into the town my son resides in?"

Abyss smiled. "A new love."

"...Does he hold a large place in your heart?" Aether asked.

Abyss nodded. "Yes. He's a changeling. Young. But very sweet. "

"...Does he love you?" Aether asked.

Abyss was silent for a minute. "Yes. With every last bit of myself." Abyss's gaze then saddened. "Much like how I loved you. Once."

"But I didn't return that feeling." Aether said with a sigh. "I couldn't spend my life with someone I couldn't put my heart into. I'm truly sorry if I hurt you that way. But you were so young at the time. I...didn't want you to throw your life away for me."

"He could've been ours you know." Abyss said with a sad smile. "Your son. Burst. True. You leaving me did hurt. But you gave me a piece of yourself that I could remember you by. And I suppose it worked out for the best. I hold no ill will towards you Aether. I'm simply happy that you have the happiness I couldn't give you."

Aether breathed a sigh of relief. "Hearing you say that takes a great weight off my soul. That being said, I'd better be off. My wife might get worried with how quickly I left." Aether turned to leave, but stopped. "For what it's worth? It was truly nice to see you again."

"You as well." Abyss said with a nod as she watched Aether leave. When Abyss returned home to Canterlot that night, Blitz Surge greeted her.

Blitz observed his mother. "You seem to be in a more balanced mood."

"I spoke with your father today." Abyss said with a small smile. "He's not changed a bit. Burst Stream looks so much like him."

Blitz nodded. "So. Where's that leave me?"

"You're quite anxious to meet your 'brother' aren't you?" Abyss asked. "The time of our reunion is coming Blitz. Soon you shall have all you desire."

Blitz smiled. "Thank you mother. It's high time I reclaim my right." He then looked to the night sky. "The right of a Son of Aether."

Episode 7: Loyalty's Ascent

"Aw yeah! This is what I'm talking about!" Rainbow Dash cheered as she looked at the Cutie Map. Seeing both her mark and Pinkie's floating over the map of Equestria. "Looks like I get to see some action!"

Pinkie was bouncing around the room! "WE GET TO GO ON A FRIENDSHIP MISSION!"

"And it looks like you're being summoned to Griffonstone." Twilight noted as she looked at the map. "You two could learn so much!"

Rainbow Dash's boastful mood was shot down a few mere seconds after hearing the destination of her and Pinkie's friendship mission. Pinkie then zipped over to her. "Hey Dashie? Isn't that where that meany pants old friend, Gilda, lives?"

"Yeah..." Rainbow Dash said with a frown. "And now we gotta go to place where her people live. Chances are that I'm gonna see her mug again."

Twilight sighed at seeing Rainbow Dash's foul mood. "Would you feel better if I had someone from Burst's team go with you?"

"I guess having Steel by my side would make it a bit more bearable." Rainbow Dash said with a sigh. Sure enough, she was off to Griffonstone alongside Pinkie and Steel.

Steel took note of Rainbow Dash's foul mood. "I take it you're less than thrilled to be headed for your old friend's home?"

"You have no idea." Rainbow Dash said with a scowl.

Steel put an arm around his girlfriend. "Hey. Maybe not all the griffons are as bad as she is."

"That's not the problem!" Rainbow Dash snapped! "The problem is that Gilda was a total jerk to all my new friends! Maybe she wasn't as good a friend as I thought she was."

Steel gave Gilda a small smile. "Or maybe she just forgot to be a good friend after the two of you parted ways. Me? I regularly write to all my guard buddies back at Canterlot and I drop in on them every now and then. The point I'm trying to get across is that maybe this could be a chance for the two of you to patch things up. I'm not saying you gotta be all buddy-buddy with her, but at least try to get on speaking terms with her."

"Steel...." Rainbow Dash let out a defeated sigh. "I can't make any promises."

Steel pulled Rainbow Dash into a hug. "And I'm not gonna force you to Rainbow." Steel then saw the entrance to Griffonstone. "Looks like we're here." However, the group was shocked to see how run-down everything looked. "...What in Tartarus happened here? Looks like the place was hit by a tornado." Steel then noticed a griffon walk by. "Hey? Could you-?" The griffon just shrugged Steel off. "Geez! What's their problem?!"

"Maybe you'd care to retract that earlier statement of yours about griffons?" Rainbow Dash suggested.

"Nah. Some of them are WAY worse than that." A familiar voice called out. The three turned their heads in the direction of the voice, and saw Gilda laying bored on the roof of a house. She turned to face them. "Oh. Rainbow Dash." She then noticed Pinkie and frowned slightly. "Puffball." Gilda then directed her gaze at Steel. "Guy who's got guts made of titanium."

Steel blinked. "Close. My name's Steel." Steel then took another quick glance at Griffonstone. "Care to tell us how everything fell apart? We heard that this place was once the most proud city on the face of Equestria."

"Yeah!" Pinkie chimed in. "Didn't your king have an idol that filled everyone with pride in being griffons?"

Gilda sighed. "We don't have a king anymore. But who cares about some stupid idol anyway? We're doing fine on our own without it."

"You best believe we care about that idol!" An old griffon called from a window in what was assumed to be Gilda's house. "That idol was the best darn thing to ever happen to us griffons!"

Gilda rolled her eyes. "Great. We woke up Grandpa Gruff."

"Can you tell us more about the idol?" Rainbow Dash asked.

Gruff nodded. "I can. For a few bits." Pinkie handed over the bits, and Gruff told then all about how the Idol of Boreas had filled the griffons with a great sense of pride. And how it had been stolen by a monster and lost to the Endless Abyss and that there had been no king since then.

"...Wow." Rainbow Dash said in shock. "That's so-"

"Pathetic." Steel interjected. Rainbow and Pinkie were in shock at Steel's remark! "I won't lie. Hearing that you lost a precious relic to your people makes me feel for you. But just because the idol is gone doesn't mean your pride has! You could still have pride! Pride in how far you had come since your greedy beginnings!" Steel sighed. "But you were just willing to let go of your pride as soon as the idol was out of the picture. And none of you seem to be willing to do something about it. How far you've all fallen." Steel looked to Rainbow Dash and Pinkie. "But I guess it's an easy fix. Find the idol. Get everyone's pride back. Want some company on your search Dash?"

Pinkie then zipped over to Gilda. "I'll stay with Gilda and try to fix things here!"

Rainbow Dash nodded, and took off with Steel to the Endless Abyss with rope in tow. "The winds here aren't like any we've seen before!" Rainbow Dash noted as a gust blew past her as she and Steel climbed down the cliffside.

"No kidding!" Steel replied as another fierce gust blew past him! "It's like there's a mini vortex that's sucking the wind in!" He then spared a glance at the abyss below. "And I wouldn't want to fall in!"

Rainbow Dash nodded, and scanned the area. Her eyes lit up when she spotted the idol! "Hey, I see it! There's the Idol of Boreas!" Rainbow Dash tried to swing herself over to the idol, and scooped it up! "Yes! I got it!" However, the ropes started to snap! Fortunately, the rope caught on a branch! "That was way too close!"

"Yeah...no kidding." Steel said as he tried to maintain a cool head. "Dash? Leave me."

"What?! Why?!"

Steel sighed. "Look. The branch won't be able to hold both of us for long. Plus, the idol's only adding to the weight. If I manage to swing you loose, you'll be able to get help. So leave me."

"No...no I can't do that!" Rainbow Dash protested! "I'm not gonna leave you!"

Steel shook his head. "Dash. I'll be fine. I can hold my own. Why's it such a big deal that you're leaving me here?"

"BECAUSE I DITCHED YOU WHEN DISCORD WAS LET LOOSE!" Rainbow Dash screamed! She then closed her eyes. "I might not have been in my right mind when I did it. But the fact remains...I deserted my friends when they needed me! I left them! And some part of me still has a lot of guilt for abandoning them! Abandoning you. And I couldn't live with myself if I did something like that again." Rainbow Dash looked into Steel's eyes. "You're too good for me y'know? You put up with how hot-headed I am, and bear how impatient and reckless I can be. And you take me down a peg when you need to. Heh! Listen to me getting all mushy. And it takes us hanging over possible death to get me pouring my heart out to you."

Steel sighed, and slowly smiled. "Well, no one I'd rather be left hanging with than you."

"Nice of you to try and make light of the situation." Rainbow Dash said with a chuckle.

"HEY!" Rainbow and Steel looked up to find Gilda and Pinkie looking over the ledge. "Need a lift Dash?" Gilda asked.

Rainbow smiled. "What's it look like to you?" Gilda flew down to help Rainbow Dash and Steel and managed to help her get loose. However, the branch holding her and Steel gave way and Steel began to fall! "STEEL!" Rainbow Dash immediately took off in an effort to grab onto Steel!

"Dash...what're you doing?!" Steel cried out!

Rainbow Dash grabbed onto Steel! "Like I said! I'm not leaving you! And I can't think of anything more disloyal than letting you fall without doing anything to help you!" A white glow soon enveloped the two, and soon faded! Gilda and Pinkie were waiting at the top and soon found a rainbow streak whoosh past them! Rainbow Dash soon landed with Steel in her arms. Her wings now had a rainbow lightning pattern bordering them, and a rainbow-magic aura covered her hands! "Wait. Did I just become an Avatar?! This...is...AWESOME!"

"My hero." Steel said with a loving smile. "Wait. What about the idol?"

Gilda shrugged. "Eh. No big deal. I was giving some thought to what you said earlier. Maybe I can help make things better here. Plus.." She then fist-bumped Pinkie. "Puffball here is pretty rad." She then received one of Pinkie's famous crushing hugs. "Yup. Rad."

"All's well that ends well." Steel said with a chuckle. "I think you know what to do when we get home Pinkie."

Pinkie beamed! "AVATAR ASCENSION PARTY!!!"

Episode 8: Heroic Desire, Dark Path

Blitz Surge stretched as he rose out of his bed. "No sense wasting five more minutes lying in bed." A smirk then crept onto his face. "Though that does mean less time with Princess Luna. No matter." Blitz got out of bed, and changed before heading into the kitchen for breakfast. "Good morning mother."

"Good morning Blitz." Abyss said with a smile. "You sure seem in quite the lifted mood today."

Blitz shrugged. "I guess you could say I had a good night yesterday." Blitz took a sip of his coffee. "By the way, is the time for our reunion approaching?"

"Yes." Abyss said with a nod. "You and Burst shall meet in no less than a week."

Blitz nodded. "If you'll excuse me. There is som business I must attend to concerning Burst Stream." Blitz retreated to the living room, and conjured up magic recordings of Burst and headlines of Burst's acts. "Burst Stream. Just what is it that makes you so special?" Blitz glanced over the images. "Was it that you were born naturally? Or that you were born a demigod?" Blitz then frowned. "Why was it you that has become the hero? I have trained, and punished those who have done wrong. They will not soon forget the suffering they caused. But you?" Blitz was almost scowling as he saw the images of Burst reforming Nightmare Moon. As well as the offers of redemption he had given to other villains. "You are so pitifully soft." Blitz crushed the images of Burst as he imagined himself in Burst's position. But he did none of the acts Burst performed. He allowed Nightmare Moon to be permanently sealed in the moon. He shattered Discord's stone statue. He killed Chrysalis before her whole hive. And Sombra he sent into an endless cycle of torment. But what brought a dark smile to his face was the cheers he envisioned for showing such brutal methods. Blitz opened his eyes. "You are no hero Burst Stream. And I'll make sure everyone knows. All will know that I am the true hero. You. The kingdom. And our immortal father." Blitz Surge stood up, and stared out the nearest window. "Just you wait Burst. Reunion is at hand."

Episode 9: Reunion

Burst stretched as he opened the window, breathed in the fresh air, and let out a fond sigh. "Yup. Looks like it's gonna be another typical day." Burst then smiled as he felt Nightmare Moon wrap her arms around him. "Morning Moon."

"Morning." Moon said with a smile as she kissed Burst. "I don't suppose I can persuade you to spare five more minutes for snuggling?"

Burst shook his head. "Sorry Moon. But you don't want to spend all your time sleeping with me in your arms do you?"

"You're half right." Moon said with a giggle. "I'll give you your space for changing."

Burst nodded and grabbed his usual clothes and changed in the bathroom. Exiting clad in his signature outfit. "I'll make breakfast today. You just worry about getting ready." Burst made a simple pancake breakfast. Sure enough, Moon came down dressed in her royal outfit. "Whipping out the best dress today, are we?"

"Why not? There is a wedding today." Moon said with a smile. "Celestia and Luna even got invited."

Burst smiled and nodded. "Sounds like fun." Burst was about to dig into his pancakes when he heard a roar come from town! "Wonder what's attacking this time?" Burst looked out the window, and saw the bugbear. "Huh. Never seen anything like that before." He then looked to Moon. "I might be a little late. Save a seat for me?"

"Sure thing. Be safe my precious light."

Burst chuckled. "You know I will." Burst summoned his Duelist Arms, and ran off to face the bugbear! He saw the Main 6 getting ready. "Don't worry Twi. I got this. You and the girls go ahead and find your seats at the wedding." Burst then spun around his blasters. "I'll handle ugly." The bugbear roared at Burst. "Gee. Someone's grumpy." Burst fired a few shots at the bugbear! Making it stagger! Sure enough, some of the other Elements of Heroism showed up. "Hey guys. Was wondering when you'd want a piece of the action.

"You seem to have this handled." Inferno said with a shrug. "But you and I should be able to keep this thing busy. The rest of you should get to town hall." Inferno summoned his Duelist Arms. "Good thing most of the town is at the hall." He then noted some people still in the area. "But still. We gotta be careful. Don't want anyone getting caught in the fight."

Burst nodded. "Let's go Inferno!" Burst and Inferno charged at the bugbear! Peppering it with shots from their blasters and keeping its attention on them! Most of the town was safely out of the way, but a few people were still out and about. And the bugbear had noticed them. But as the beast was about to lunge at the people, a slash of magic cut it! A lone figure stood with a sword drawn. "So who's decided to join the party?" Burst looked in the direction of the figure! The figure was wearing a light grey coat, dark grey shirt, black pants, and boots. But what really perplexed Burst was how the figure had the same sapphire blue eyes he did.

"So. We meet at last." Blitz Surge stated. He then looked at the bugbear. "Though I assumed you'd have less difficulty in handling the beast." Blitz then got into a fighting stance. "Let's see if you've any of our father's skill."

Inferno shook his head in confusion. "Burst? Who is this guy? I thought the only 'brother' you had was Shining Dawn! And you blew him away!"

"I don't know who you are..." Burst said to Blitz Surge. "But I want answers out of you when we're done here."

"Hmph. Fair enough." Blitz said with a shrug. He then launched another magical slash from his sword. But Burst's eyes went wide when he saw what was in the slash's path! Burst unleashed his own energy slash that snuffed out Blitz's! Blitz frowned in annoyance. "Why do you interfere with my attacks? Isn't it your goal to defeat the creature?"

Burst scowled. "Are you really that careless?" Burst snuck a glance, and relaxed a bit when he saw the civilians that were in the slash's path flee to safety. "We're gonna have a talk once we're done here. But now? I think I'll wrap this up!" Burst activated Bahamut Aether, and slashed the bugbear across the chest! The bugbear roared in pain, and cradled the wound. Burst then pointed to the direction of the forest. "Leave." The bugbear slowly lumbered off towards the forest. "I don't think we'll be seeing him again."

"I'm certain of that." Blitz said as he channeled magic around his sword, and aimed his sights at the bugbear! "I'll see to it."

Burst's eyes went wide! "NO!" Burst grabbed onto Blitz, and forced him to fire the attack into the air! "What in tartarus was that?!"

"Fool!" Blitz snapped! "You would let that beast live?"

Burst scowled. "It's just an animal! It doesn't know any better! And we beat it! There wasn't any need to attack it anymore! And what was with you earlier?! There were people in the path of your attack! If the bugbear dodged, they would've gotten hurt!"

"They would've been acceptable collateral." Blitz said flatly.

Burst was furious! "COLLATERAL?!" Burst then grabbed Blitz! "I don't know how you think this hero thing works, but we always make sure to show restraint and caution when fighting in populated areas! Our job's to protect people! And how can we call ourselves protectors if we put them in greater harm?!"

"You would sacrifice fame for the well being of a few random people?" Blitz asked. "I'm sure our father would have done what I did."

Burst got right in Blitz's face, and stared Blitz right in the eye. "Who. Are. You?"

"I am Blitz Surge." Blitz answered. "And I must say. You're certainly disappointing. Brother. My mother certainly was correct in comparing your appearance to our father." Abyss slowly approached Blitz. "I trust you've already met?"

Burst looked at Abyss, and pulled out his phone. He then called his father. Aether. "Dad? I think your old flame's kept a few details from you. You NEED to see this. Trust me Dad. You won't believe it. Even if you're looking right at it." Not a few minutes later, Aether landed before Burst.

"I'm here son. What seems to be the-" Aether froze when he saw Abyss and Blitz. "...Problem?"

Abyss smiled. "Hello again Aether. There's someone I'd like you to meet." She then gestured to Blitz. "Isn't he wonderful?"

"Hello. Father." Blitz said with a proud smile.

Aether looked to Abyss. "...No. He can't be my son. He isn't!"

"Why not?" Abyss asked.

Aether then pointed to Abyss! "Because I never took things that far with you!"

"Oh, but Aether. He IS our son." Abyss replied. "Do you remember when I said that I had a little piece of you to remember you by? Well, I used that piece with my magic to make Blitz Surge." Aether's jaw dropped in shock! "True. He was not born naturally. But nonetheless, he deserves the love that I provide as his mother."

Blitz then stepped up to Aether. "And now I wish my family to be complete." He then knelt before. "Aether Stream. My father. I've come to seek your approval. I wish to be recognized as your son! And that you hail me as a hero!"

Aether was silent for a full minute. Guilt was heavy in his eyes. "And just what have you done that merits you being declared a hero?"

"I engaged the monster that attacked this town." Blitz answered. "I was about to finish it off. Until my brother decided to interfere." Blitz spared a glance at Burst.

Aether nodded. "Rise." Blitz stood to his feet, and Aether looked his "son" right in the eye. "I recognize you as my son. But I will not declare you a hero."

"...What." Blitz was in shock! "But...but I was going to slay the monster! The people would have cheered to celebrate my victory!"

Aether shook his head. "If Burst intervened in your fight, I don't believe he did so without good reason. But isn't it enough for you to be my son? I won't lie that I feel guilt that I have been...absent in your life. That I was unaware of your existence. But I wish to make up for that now. Isn't this what you want? The love of your father?"

Blitz was silent as he looked at Burst, and then returned his gaze to Aether's pleading eyes. "....I suppose."

"Then welcome. My son." Aether said with a relieved smile as he pulled Blitz into a hug. "Now come. I believe we all have a wedding to attend."

Before they all headed into the town hall, Burst and Blitz stared at each other. "Hey." Burst called out. "You've got some pretty sweet moves. But you need to work on some restraint. There's more to being a hero than you think."

"Maybe there's less to it than you say there is." Blitz retorted as he went inside.

Burst shook his head. "Wonder if he's going to be another Shining Dawn."

Inside, Blitz caught sight of Luna and walked over to her. "Well. It appears our paths cross once more."

"Oh! You!" Luna said with a blush! "I...did not think I would encounter you again so soon!"

Celestia smirked. "Luna? You didn't tell me you were seeing someone. So who might be the one who's stolen my sister's heart?"

"Blitz Surge. A pleasure, your highness." Blitz said with a bow. "I believe you're quite well aqcuainted with my brother."

"Of course she is! I'm dating her!" Burst called out as he grabbed the seat between Celestia and Moon. He then put his arms around both of them. "As well as this lovely dream."

Blitz smirked. "It seems if nothing else, we share good taste in women." Blitz then sat down beside Luna. "Of course, I have always favored the night more."

"Huh. Guess he's got something to care for." Burst muttered as he saw Blitz flirt with Luna. "I hope Luna can set him straight."

Episode 10: Boundless Determination

Fang wasn't sleeping well that night. His ears twitched, and he grunted in discomfort as he shifted in his bed. And his mind was a battleground. In the dreams that plagued him, he saw the being that possessed him. Savage Howl. However, the entity that had hijacked his body started to run away! Fang was about to charge at the dark spirit, but Savage jumped him first! He then pulled some orb of energy out of Fang! Fang barely had any time to speculate before he felt his whole world shaking!

"Fang! FANG!" Aria cried as she shook Fang to wake him up!

Fang gasped for air as his eyes snapped open, and panted as his lungs began to catch up to him. "Aria? What're you doing in my room?"

"Heard you groaning in pain." Aria answered. "You have a nightmare or something?"

Fang shook his head. "Yeah. One I thought was behind me. I...think I just need to wash my face."

"Hey..." Aria then grabbed onto Fang's hand. "If, well, you got no problem with it....maybe I could keep you company?"

Fang slowly smiled. "Yeah. That'd be awesome." Fang headed to the bathroom, turned on the light. However, upon looking at his reflection, Fang froze. They were gone. He no longer had his wolf ears and tail! "AAAAHHHH!"

Meanwhile, Savage Howl stood on a hill overlooking Ponyville. "Hmph. It sounds like the cub has realized what has been stolen from him." Savage then stared at the orb in his hands. Inside it was the image of a howling wolf. "He's no right to his strength. But it will take more than this to get him to become my vessel once more." Savage Howl looked into the orb of Fang's wolf spirit, and closed his eyes as he read the memories it held from being bonded with Fang. A good portion of memories contained Aria. A dark smile spread across Savage Howl's face. "Yes. Soon cub. Soon you shall know the hunger I do. You shall know the pain of having something taken from you." Savage Howl then shifted into his wolf form, and sprinted away to the forest.

The next morning, Fang sighed a bit. Aria noticed and decided to see what was the matter. "Hey. Didn't you used to say that somedays you wished you never had your ears or tail?"

"Yeah. But I never meant it." Fang said dejectedly as he looked at his reflection. "They were a part of me. They defined me, and I'd never want to be without them. Now that they're gone? I feel so...naked. Like I was robbed of my identity. Tell me. Have you ever felt something like that? This kind of loss?"

Aria slowly walked over to Fang, and wrapped her arms around him. "I do." She looked at where her pendent had once adorned her neck. "I know it very well. But I would've been a whole lot worse off than I am now if it weren't for one thing."

"What's that?" Fang asked.

Aria buried her face in Fang's hair. "You. You didn't give up on me. Even when I wanted to call it quits in myself. Kinda made me happy, y'know?" Aria then blushed slightly. "So...I guess it's high time I return the favor."

"....Aria...." Fang turned around to face Aria and let out a heavy sigh. "Thanks. I needed that."

A small smile formed on Aria's face. "No problem Fang." The two headed outside. However, a shadowy mass swept up Aria! Fang was in shock when the shadowy mass took a familiar form!

"YOU!" Fang growled as he glared at Savage Howl! "I thought you were dead! How are you even alive?!"

Savage Howl sneered. "You share my tenacity, cub. If nothing else." He then lifted Aria. "Tell me. How much does this woman mean to you? But furthermore..." Savage Howl then pulled out the orb containing Fang's wolf spirit. "What value do you place on your spirit? Let it not be said I am an unfair alpha. I'll give you a chance to reclaim both. IF you pass the trials that I have in store for you. Let's see if a mutt like you is worthy of the wolf spirit." Savage Howl then shifted into his were-form and bounded away! Leaving a trail of shadow tracks in his wake!

Fang clenched his fist as he summoned his Duelist Arm. "Aria....hold on." Fang then broke into a run after the tracks! He'd never been angrier in his life. Nor had he been more driven. I swear if it takes every last bit of life in me. I'll send that spirit to Tartarus myself! Even if I have to drag him myself! The tracks came to a stop at the mouth of a cave. "Figures." Fang looked into the dark entrance. Like a set of jaws waiting to slam shut as soon as he entered the cave. "And here I am staring down the jaws of the beast. I'll either conquer it, or be devoured." Fang walked into the cave. The darkness seemingly swallowing him.

Meanwhile, Aria struggled against the shadow chains that bound her. She then directed her gaze at Savage Howl. "Why? Why are you doing this?! What's the point and what do you want with Fang?!"

"You are not human. Are you?" Savage Howl inquired. "Your scent is not like that of regular humans. So you know the pain I do."

Aria blinked. "What pain?"

"The pain of being an outcast. Being discriminated against because you were born outside of the norm." Savage Howl then looked Aria right in the eye. "For most of while I lived, humans viewed me with fear and contempt. They called me a cursed being. One cursed to be like a beast. But...there was a time I had found happiness. A woman found me injured after a bad hunt. She healed me, and I grew quite close to her. It did not last. A few villagers spotted her with me." Savage Howl then clenched his fists. "And they ended her life simply because she was close to me. I could not save her. She gave me a reason to not give up on humanity. And the foolish humans had no idea what they had robbed me of!" Savage Howl punched one of the cave walls! "And my foolish brother simply stood by and let the humans hate him! And yet in the end it was he who had a happy ending! I hunger for what I was denied and vengeance against those who wronged me! To see that pitiful cub enjoy what I was denied only deepens my hunger." Savage Howl then sniffed the air. "Ah. It appears he has arrived." Savage Howl stood at the center of what looked like a ring. He sneered once Fang came into view.

"I'm here to take back what's important to me." Fang declared.

Savage Howl scoffed. "You'll have to prove that you're deserving of the wolf spirit. Cub."

"I wasn't talking about my wolf spirit." Fang snapped. He then pointed at Aria. "I'm here for the girl. Give her back to me, and I'll be on my way."

Savage Howl frowned. "You misunderstand. If you've come for the girl, then you must reclaim the spirit. They are a package deal."

"Fine." Fang growled. "What do I gotta do to save Aria?"

Savage Howl sneered. "Beat me with the skills of the beast spirit you must reclaim." Savage snapped his fingers, and the cave soon turned into a ring. "Show me your fangs. Or has stealing away the spirit rendered you toothless?"

"Time to find out." Fang replied coldly as he got into a fighting stance. The two circled each other. Waiting for an opening to attack, and the first blow to be struck. Savage Howl leaped at Fang, and slashed at him! Fang barely dodged as Savage's claws ripped into his shirt! "That all you got?" Fang then kicked Savage in the side and followed up by ramming into him! "I've got plenty of bite left in me! Can you back up your bark?!"

Savage narrowed his eyes, and growled at Fang. "Time to teach you respect for your alpha, cub." Savage Howl crouched, and a low growl escaped his throat before snarling as he pounced on Fang and bit into his shoulder! However, Fang was only motivated to push back! Savage felt air being pushed out of his gut as Fang repeatedly punched him! Savage withdrew his bite, and gasped for air. "You are fortunate I have not hit anywhere vital. I've no desire to see you die." Savage then sneered. "Most would run to lick their wounds after an attack like that."

"Like I said. I'm not leaving without Aria." Fang replied as he clutched the area he'd been bitten. "If you think one little bite's gonna stop me, you're dead wrong!" Fang charged at Savage Howl! Tackling him to the ground before punching him repeatedly in the face! However, Savage slashed Fang across the chest! "AGH!" Fang staggered back as he covered his chest! Blood trickled from where he'd been slashed!

Savage Howl shook his claws clean of the blood he'd drawn. "You don't give in, do you?"

"You should know." Fang snapped. "A cornered wolf is the most dangerous."

Savage Howl sneered. "A pity whatever bite you have left in you is pitiful. But I shall give you a chance to spare yourself further pain. Surrender. Become my vessel, and I shall grant you the spirit and release the girl."

"That's all?" Fang asked. He then smirked and spit at Savage Howl! "Not a chance in tartarus."

Savage Howl frowned. "Insolent to the end I see. Very well. You have chosen your fate!" Fang raised his arms to block as Savage Howl repeatedly slashed at him! Pain ripped through Fang's body as Savage Howl kept at his barrage of violent slashes! Each strike seemingly robbing Fang of his will to stand! Aria watched in horror as she saw Fang only get beaten even worse as each slash from Savage Howl seemed to increase in ferocity! And when the brutal assault finally came to an end, Fang was on his knees with slash marks all over his arms and upper body. "My offer still stands cub. What is your answer now?"

"I...I...I..." Fang struggled to reply as the world around him began to distort due to the injuries inflicted upon him. He was about to yield, but stopped when he heard something. A clear, beautiful song permeated the air. It was the most beautiful thing Fang had heard in his life. He slowly turned his head, and saw Aria singing. A purple glow coming from where her old pendent once hung. "I won't...GIVE UP NOW!" Fang screamed as he sprung to his feet! Suddenly, phantom wolf claws, ears, and a tail materialized on Fang! Savage Howl was so shocked at the sudden burst of determination from Fang he didn't have time to react when Fang rammed into him! "I don't care if it burns every last bit of blood in my body, or saps whatever will I'm barely hanging on to! I'M NEVER GOING TO GIVE UP BECAUSE MY DETERMINATION OUTWEIGHS ANY OTHER INSTINCT!" Fang then slashed right at Savage Howl's core! The wound proving fatal for the dark spirit! The wolf spirit flew back into Fang. Restoring his ears and tail. Fang was panting from the tremendous strain the fight had inflicted upon him, and saw Aria walking up to both him and Savage Howl. Wing-like fins now adorned her back, and a pendent with a purple gem was now in place of the old red one. But as the old gem was red and edgy, this one was purple, flat, and smooth.

Aria knelt down beside the dying Savage Howl. "I'm sorry for what's happened to you. I've seen it before." Aria's mind flashed back to her time in the world beyond the mirror. She and her sisters had spent centuries in the alternate world, and had seen both great and terrible events in the human history of that world. "But I can at the very least grant you a peaceful rest." The new gem of Aria's pendent glowed purple as she sang. And as she sang, a new spirit materialized. One Savage Howl recognized as the woman he had loved while he was still mortal. "She's been waiting for you a long while. Go with her." Savage Howl broke into tears as he took the woman's hand and faded into the afterlife with her. Aria then turned to Fang. "I wouldn't have forgiven you if you'd given up so easy back there." She said with a smile.

Fang smiled and was about to answer before being whisked away in a bright light! When Fang opened his eyes, he found himself looking at Burst's father. Aether. "So...is this my time?"

"You bet." Aether said with a chuckle. "Even when beaten and bloodied, with death's door no shorter than an inch away from you, you never gave in. And as your limits were pushed, you pushed back with all the force you could gather. Boundless determination indeed. And let it not be said it was unrewarded." Aether raised his hand and Fang was engulfed in a sphere of magic!

When Fang opened his eyes, he found a small red-violet aura of magic around his hands. As well as furry bat wings adorning his back. And immediately being pounced upon by Aria. "Looks like you've found your voice." Fang said with a smile as he wrapped his arms around Aria.

"You've earned your wings." Aria said with a giggle before kissing him. "And you're SOOO getting extra belly rubs tonight." Fang carried Aria home. The newly immortal siren sighing contently as Fang curled up against her. The two falling asleep.

Episode 11: Ascending Laughter

Akage smiled as he saw Pinkie bouncing around as usual. And considering the upcoming Friendship Summit, it was chance for Pinkie to use her talents to their fullest extent. Making the living bundle of pink energy quite happy. If her squeals of joy ringing through Twilight's castle wasn't an obvious enough clue. "I take it you're excited?" Akage asked with a chuckle.

"Of course I am!" Pinkie chirped! "I always get excited when meeting new people!"

Twilight, on the other hand, was panicking. "And if we don't make a good impression with the representatives from Yakyakistan, it could be the last time we meet them on friendly terms!" Twilight then began pacing. "Everything needs to be perfect! We don't want to risk upsetting them!" Twilight froze in place as she heard the door open! The yaks had taken that name for their people due to how pivotal the beast that served as their namesake was key to their way of life. And thus, they felt a strong kinship with it. In order to make them feel more at home, Twilight came up with a plan to replicate the yaks' traditions. A good idea in terms of concept. But when it came to execution, everything fell apart. Angering the yaks!

"YAKS LEAVE ON TRAIN! YAKS COME BACK WITH MORE YAKS AND SMASH TOWN!" Prince Rutherford declared with a bellow!

Pinkie was watching the whole scene unfold, and the pressure finally set in. "AKAGE!" She shrieked as she grabbed Akage by the scarf! "I need to fix this! Nothing's going right so far! And I think I know what to do!"

"What did you have in mind?" Akage asked. "Going all the way to Yakyakistan to give them a little piece of home?"

Pinkie gasped! "That's an even better idea! C'mon! The author will write about our journey!"

"...What." Akage asked before he felt himself being zipped away by Pinkie as she travelled across the map of Equestria. Encountering all kinds of people and navigating various obstacles that appeared as faded images on the map. Soon arriving at the passageway to Yakyakistan."Did we...travel by map?"

Pinkie nodded. "Yup! Quickest way to travel besides teleporting! C'mon! We've got no time to lose!" Pinkie and Akage made it to the village. However, a poorly placed sled brought all their progress crashing down as they slid all the way back to Ponyville! As soon as the sled came to a stop, Akage noticed the defeated look on Pinkie's face as her hair started to deflate. Twilight and the other girls came up to her, and smiled. Simply appreciating the effort she'd put into trying to make the yaks happy.

"Hey there, isn't it important that we tried?" Akage said with an encouraging smile as he cupped Pinkie's face. "Besides, didn't we have fun along the way? Plus, isn't it more important that we made our friends smile?"

Pinkie slowly smiled as her hair returned to it's normal puffy state. She then gasped at a new realization! "I know what to do!" Not a few minutes later, Pinkie led the yaks to a fair being held for the summit. "I know we can't get our home to be like yours. So I decided we should just show you why we like our home so much!"

"Yaks not realize work you put into trying to make yaks feel at home." Prince Rutherford stated. "Maybe yaks should have tried to like your home for way it is." He then scooped Pinkie into a tight hug! "YAKS BE FRIENDS WITH EQUESTRIA! FOR THOUSAND MOONS!"

Pinkie beamed at hearing this! Then she was enveloped by a sphere of magic! When it faded, a hot pink aura of magic surrounded her hands and pink wings now adorned her back! The feathers had patterns of balloons, confetti, and streams on them! Pinkie gasped as she took in her new appearance and scooped Twilight and Rainbow Dash up in a hug! "AVATAR PARTYYY!" She then leaped onto Akage, and kissed him! Akage just remained silent as a smile formed on his face as it flushed red.

"Well. Now the party's never gonna stop for her." Akage said with a chuckle as he joined in the celebration.

Episode 12: Catching Up

"....I don't want to do this." Burst said with a frown as he sat down on the couch. Nightmare Moon took the seat next to him.

"Burst. He's technically part of your family now." Moon said with a pleading smile. "Your father asking the two of you to meet up and speak surely can't be that unpleasant, can it?"

Burst sighed. "I don't like the way he operates. He could've easily hurt some bystanders back when the bugbear showed up. And on top of that, the guy's got an unhealthy amount of pride in him. I can tell by the way he carries himself and speaks. Especially when he called any possible casualties collateral. But what I hate about him the most is that he was so willing to kill." Burst sighed. "I know it sounds like I'm one to talk. But the foes I've destroyed were unavoidable. They were either too far gone, didn't want to be saved, or too stubborn to see how wrong they were."

"Maybe it's not too late for Blitz?" Moon suggested. "If you can't set him straight or ground him, maybe Luna can. And who knows? Maybe the two of you aren't so different after all. And don't say you hate him. Most texts would imply otherwise, but I never hated Celestia. Even for banishing me. Upset? Sure. Hate? No."

Burst took a deep breath. "I'll give it a shot. I'll see you when I get back." Burst kissed Moon, and flew off to Canterlot. Landing at his old home, and knocking on the door. His father Aether answering. "Hey Dad."

"Come on in Burst." Aether motioned as he led Burst to the living room couch. Blitz Surge was already seated in an adjacent chair. As soon as Burst had sat down, Aether joined his sons. He then looked at Blitz. "We've got a lot of catching up to do."

Blitz nodded. "Indeed. I suppose I should start with my birth seventeen years ago."

"Seventeen?" Aether asked in confusion. "Buy you look Burst's age."

Blitz smirked. "Oh no. I was created at roughly the same time as my 'brother'. But rather than bring me into the world at infancy, my mother decided to let her magic and your essence mature me for a few more years. After that, I was truly born into the world. My mother would constantly tell me about your various exploits. Of your great deeds and legendary heroism. Being spawned from such a great father, I sought to become a son worthy of such a lineage. From then, I dedicated my life to that one desire."

"I see. How...interesting." Aether said with a cautious expression. "I'm....honored to have had such an influence on your life despite my absence."

Blitz blinked before looking at Burst. "So. Brother. Have you been striving to prove your worth as our father's son? By the acts you've done so far, it looks like you're in the lead."

"Yeah, no." Burst said flatly. "I just did what I did because it's what I wanted to do. Because it was right. Not because I feel there's some legacy I need to live up to. And I don't have a father." Burst then smiled at Aether. "I've got a dad. That's much better in my opinion. And if I try to live his life, well, then what's the point of being me?" Burst returned his gaze to Blitz, and he took note of the mortified expression on Blitz's face. "Hey...what's your deal? Your face is looking at me like I just said sacrilege."

Blitz slowly stood up. "You're telling me that all the battles you've fought, the foes you've vanquished...NONE OF IT WAS PLANNED?!"

"Well, I haven't really 'vanquished' that many people." Burst replied calmly. "Actually, I try to avoid fighting things out. If I can wound myself to make a friend, then I'll do it. If there's no need to fight, then I won't draw my weapons. And I'd say it's paid off so far. Some of Equestria's worst are now better for it because someone was willing to listen to them. To give them another chance."

Blitz slammed his fist on the table! "THEY DESERVE NO CHANCES!" Blitz glared at Burst! "For all the evil they've done, they deserve to suffer the very pain they inflicted! To know how those they trampled hurt! They must be punished! They must face judgment! They must be dealt justice! Like the justice I dealt to the former King Sombra!"

"That was you?!" Burst shouted as he stood up! "What you did was unnecessary! He'd already suffered enough! Who are you to judge him?! Or say whether or not he should suffer?!"

"I am justice." Blitz said coldly. "The one element you and your team seem to be lacking as a hero."

Burst narrowed his eyes. "And I'd say we're better for it." Burst sighed. "This was a waste of time. I'm sorry if I'm not what you consider an ideal hero. But it's my life. My way of fighting. Not yours. And I'm gonna go ahead and live my life. It's not my place to say how you should live yours. So what right do you have to criticize how I live mine?" Burst then turned to Aether. "I'm sorry you had to see this Dad. I'd love to stay, but something tells me staying any longer might have some ugly conversations. See you next visit." Burst left, and flew back home.

"Hmph. Don't worry father. I trust that insolent fool won't insult you like tha-" Blitz froze when he saw the stern look on Aether's face.

Aether sighed. "I'm disappointed in you Blitz. Incredibly disappointed."

"What should I do to appease you father?!" Blitz begged. "Shall I duel Burst?"

Aether shook his head. "Stop! Please! Just....stop! Quit trying to please me!" Aether let out a groan. "I'm disappointed in you because Burst brought up some valid points. Heroes don't exist to punish the wicked. They fight to protect the innocent. And what you've done? It horrifies me." Blitz was in shock. "Even more disgruntling is that you're trying to be me. Trying to live my life. But you should seek to live your own. You really want to make me happy? Be yourself. Not me." Aether then put a hand on Blitz's shoulder. "No. Forget what I said about me being happy. Live your life for yourself. Not for my sake. Or for trying to become my legacy." Aether then pointed to the door. "I want you to leave. For now. And when you walk out that door, I want you to live your own life."

Blitz slowly shuffled out the door, and teleported home. Staring at the images he'd compiled of Burst before cutting them to ribbons. He then waited until night fell, and made his way to Canterlot Castle. He soon arrived at Princess Luna's night court. "Hello once again your highness."

"So. To what do we owe this visit?" Luna asked with a giggle.

Blitz slowly smiled. "What better time to court you than during your court?"

Episode 13: Doubts

Shadow rustled in his bed. A pained expression on his face as he twisted and turned before waking up with a start! "STARLIGHT!" He screamed as he woke! Shadow panted heavily as the rest of his body caught up with him, and he rubbed his face. "Again. The same dream." Shadow sighed, and headed for the bathroom. Splashing himself with cold water. "Just...don't think about her Shadow. Just don't think about her." Shadow muttered to himself as he returned to his bed. However, no matter how many times he told himself not to think of Starlight Glimmer, it only served to further etch her into his thoughts.

The next morning
Ace and Ice were at the table having breakfast. It seemed like any other morning. However, the two were shocked to see Shadow's state of being. "Shadow...what happened to you last night?" Heavy bags were under Shadow's face. "You look awful!" Ice stated.

"Oh, morning guys...." Shadow said with a yawn. "Don't mind me. Just had some trouble sleeping last nigh..." Shadow then promptly collapsed on the floor! A few hours later, Shadow awakened to the concerned faces of his brothers. "Ngghhh....how long was I out for?"

Ace breathed a sigh of relief. "A few hours." He then steeled his gaze. "Shadow. Tell us what's wrong. Please."

"It's nothing." Shadow said as he brushed off Ace's hand. "I'm fine."

Ice shook his head. "I know you're lying Shadow. We both do. More importantly, I know you're afraid. You're still thinking about that girl, aren't you?"

"...Fine. I admit it." Shadow said with a defeated sigh. "I blame myself for her running away." Shadow looked at the floor in shame. "Every time I go to sleep I find myself dreaming about her. And each time she either runs away, or vanishes. Or worse, she screams at me. Saying I ruined her life. And it hurts. It hurts so much...." Shadow then slammed his fist against the floor! "How can I deserve to be on this team if I can't even save one person on my first big mission?!"

Ace took a deep breath. "Shadow...it's not your fault. Sometimes, people don't want to admit that they're wrong or that they need help. And you can't force them to."

"I should know. I was one of those people." Ice added. "Maybe Starlight will realize this soon. But Shadow, you don't know what she's been through. Or what made her this way. But you do know she's hurting. And getting her to admit to that pain is part of the healing process. So far, it looks like she doesn't want to. You DO deserve to be an Element of Heroism."

Shadow sighed as he got up. "I'm going back to bed." Shadow retreated to his room, and threw himself onto his bed. However, a new unpleasant dream reared its head.

"Shadow...Shadow help me!" Starlight's voice called out!

In his dream, Shadow looked frantically around for the source! "Starlight?! Where are you?!" Shadow then saw Starlight before him. Broken and crying. "Starlight!" Shadow made a break for Starlight, but chains suddenly wrapped around him! Restraining him as he reached his hand out! "Starlight!" Shadow groaned as the chains further weighed him down! "Let me go! STARLIGHT!" Shadow kept on screaming as tears started to fall from his eyes! "All my fault...this is all my fault!" And as Shadow cried, the dream around him began to fade as Nightmare Moon appeared in the dreamscape. Shadow noticed her presence. "Moon...have you been giving me these nightmares? I know I screwed up! I don't need you to keep tormenting me with it!"

"Shadow...these nightmares aren't of my making." Moon said as she shook her head. She then pointed at Shadow. "They're you're own. As are the chains that bound you earlier. Because you doubt yourself. You doubt being an Element of Heroism."

Shadow sprung up to his feet! "And why shouldn't I doubt myself?! Because of me, someone who needed help ran away! Someone who's hurting so bad on the inside! HOW AM I FIT TO BE THE ELEMENT OF COMPASSION WHEN THE ONE WHO NEEDS ME THE MOST THINKS I RUINED THEIR LIFE?!" He then fell to his knees. The outburst draining most of his energy. "I'm so weak and pathetic...."

"Oh, Shadow..." Moon said as she wrapped one of her wings around him. "You're wrong about yourself. If you don't believe me, ask Ice. I've seen his dreams. During the time he lost his way, you were there to show him compassion. Despite all he'd done, you still accepted him. Both you and your bother woke him from his nightmare. You ARE strong Shadow. All because you're such a compassionate person. That's all the more reason as to why you're worthy of being an Element of Heroism. But I think I know why you place so much blame on yourself. You felt something resonate within you when you met Starlight Glimmer, right?"

Shadow wiped his tears. "Yeah. Some small part of me felt...drawn to her. Like I was meant to meet her."

"Then that connection will bring her to you again." Moon said with a small smile. "And maybe do so much more."

Shadow tilted his head in confusion. "What's that supposed to mean?"

"No spoilers!" Moon said with a giggle! "Rest well Shadow. I'll craft you a new dream. One you will live for when you return to the waking world." And with that Moon vanished as Shadow's dreamscape changed. Once more, Starlight was before Shadow. But this time, she hugged him tightly. And Shadow slowly wrapped his arms and wings around her. However, at the core of his being, a dark mass began to form. And sooner or later, Shadow would have to face it. But for now? He was at peace.

Episode 14: Adamant Generosity

Rarity hummed to herself as she inspected her new boutique. "Oh, this is just perfect! I'm living my dream!" Rarity gave quick spin before looking out the window at the city of Canterlot. "I've waited so long for this moment, and it's finally here!"

"Well, you put in the work instead of just sitting around hoping for your dream to come true." Inferno said with a chuckle. "You followed your passion, and you put all your heart into your work. No wonder I got to like you so soon."

Rarity giggled. "I'm just ashamed I didn't see you for the treasure of a man you were. Sorry to make you do all the heavy lifting darling."

"Hey, no problem." Inferno said with a shrug. "My ascension granted me some extra strength. Might as well put it to good use."

"You're telling me." Twilight chimed in. "Though when I tested out my new strength, it was completely accidental. I ripped off the door of my fridge the morning after."

Everyone shared a laugh as Rarity oversaw the preparations. This was her opening day, and the dresses she'd selected to display were in place. "Okay Rarity. Calm yourself. It's only your opening. And this boutique's future rests on a good first impression. No pressure."

"Last minute jitters?" Inferno asked as he set a box of fabric down. Rarity nodded, and Inferno smiled as he wrapped his arms around her "Hey. I know that feeling all too well. But I've seen you handle pressure before. And this time's not gonna be any different. This your time to shine, and the stage is yours. Rock on!"

Rarity smiled as she nuzzled against Inferno. "Thank you Inferno I needed that. Of course, I did bring along some extra assistance."

"Rarity. No one knows how to get your work noticed better than you." Inferno said with a reassuring smile. "Who could possibly do a better job?"

Rarity took a deep breath. "Well, the manager I've hired is quite savvy when it comes to advertising fashion. Sassy Saddles has quite the reputation around her. And I'm sure she'll know just the way to make this new boutique a hit."

"Alright. I guess I can understand that. Even the brightest of gems still need a good polish." Inferno said with a shrug. "So when's she due to show up?" Inferno's question was answered as soon as the boutique's door was swung open. And the second Inferno laid eyes on Sassy Saddles, his mood instantly soured. He'd seen this type before. He'd encountered it all too often during his career. She's going to totally upstage Rarity. I can tell by the way she carries herself. Business-type. Very product-oriented. I just hope my advice to Rarity pays off and she recognizes the potential disaster sooner. Inferno put on a neutral expression when Sassy came up to him.

"Ah. You must be Inferno! Oh, Rarity's said so much about you. Pleased to meet you!"

"...Likewise." Inferno said caustiously as he shook her hand. From there, things seemed to play out as expected. The outfits were set on their displays, and a huge crowd was gathering. Some of the top fashion reporters were among the crowd. "Show time." Inferno said with a nod before looking at Rarity. "Let's show 'em what you've made."

Rarity beamed, and opened the door. Only for Sassy Saddles to slip right in front of her and greet the crowd. And it only got worse as Sassy pretty much hijacked the entire presentation! Cutting short all the time Rarity had planned to showcase her work! "Inferno?"

"Yeah?"

Rarity frowned as she looked over at how Sassy Saddles had completely taken over the opening. "I've got the feeling I just got upstaged. This isn't the way I had planned my grand opening!"

"Well then. Wouldn't you say it's time for you to cut this performance short?" Inferno suggested.

Rarity took a deep breath, and nodded as she grabbed a microphone. "Attention everyone! I'm sorry to say this, but our opening is cancelled." Rarity looked at the sea of confusion before her, but regained her composure. "I sincerely apologize, but this was not the opening I had planned at all. Please. Come back next week. I promise you that you won't be disappointed!" The crowd murmured as they shuffled out of the boutique. Rarity breathed a sigh of relief. "Crisis averted."

However, Sassy Saddles was quite upset by the abrupt end. "Rarity! What in Celestia's name are you doing?!"

"Sassy. I understand you are doing what you've believe is the best and works the best for you." Rarity then steeled her gaze. "But that's not the way I operate. You were intentionally cutting short the showcase time for each of the dresses I had chosen to display."

Sassy rolled her eyes. "Of course! Why focus on so many when you could have one surefire success? Something you can pin your name to and rely on as a constant best seller?"

"Ms. Saddles?" Inferno asked as he stood beside Rarity. "You're a good businesswoman. But you're a lousy artist. Sure. Having a good piece you're well known for is important. But what you're doing would make it the only thing Rarity would be known for. And she's no one-hit wonder. She has so many works in store for everyone to see! Each outfit she makes, she puts all her heart and passion into. She doesn't have just one stellar article of clothing."

Rarity nodded. "Indeed darling. I love all of my works, and know they need the proper time to shine. I don't expect you to like the way I do things. But at the very least I expected you to respect the way I conduct my business." Rarity then pointed to the boutique entrance. "The door is right there. You are free to come back when you wish. But only after you've come to realize that what works best for you is NOT what works well for everyone else." Rarity watched as Sassy Saddles left, and clutched her heart as it raced before looking to Inferno. "Inferno?"

"What is it?" Inferno asked.

Rarity took a deep breath. "Is what it feels like to be...badass?"

Inferno slowly grinned. "You have no idea." Inferno was then pleasantly surprised when Rarity leaped into his arms and kissed him. A kiss he happily returned.

Meanwhile, Sassy Saddles was fuming. And as she was stewing in her anger, she felt an odd presence calling to her. She followed it, and found an odd mirror. "You have been wronged as I have. Contract with me, and I shall grant you vengeance against the one who has wronged you." Saddle barely had any time to respons as she reached out her hand, and a dark purple mist flowed into Saddle's body and transformed her. Her hair becmong wavy and white, and her eyes turning white.

"Ahhh! It feels good to have a body once more!" Vanity said with a fond sigh. She then sensed for Rarity, but her eyes snapped open when she sensed a familiar presence. "Ah. It appears one who shares blood with the accursed Avatar that imprisoned me is with the wench whom this woman despises. Two birds, one stone." Vanity said with an evil smile as she looked down at the mirror that had once served as her prison and teleported to Canterlot Boutique. She then locked her sights on Inferno. A cruel smile as those present looked upon her altered form. "Ah. So it was a son that Seraph bore."

Inferno narrowed his eyes. "Who are you? What did you do to Ms. Saddles and how do you know my mom?!"

"You will soon know boy." Vanity said with a wicked smile as she raised the mirror, and sucked Inferno into it! As soon as Inferno was trapped, a wave of magic was released! When the magic died down, a purple magi woman with wavy white hair stood holding the mirror and Sassy Saddles was out cold on the floor. Vanity stretched as she relished her new body. "Ahhh! Much better! How potent an avatar's magic is! More than enough to restore my magnificent beauty!"

Rarity marched up to Vanity! Her eyes were filled with rage! "YOU! What did you do to my Inferno?!"

"Oh? You're close to this boy?" Vanity asked feigning concern. "Simple. I'm getting even. His mother, Seraph Flare, is the avatar of passion. She sealed me in the very mirror I've now trapped her son in. All because I was having a little harmless fun enchanting an entire village so that they adored me. And could you blame them? Look at me. I have beauty that rivals Celestia's!"

Rarity frowned. "I don't believe I've ever met a more repulsive person in my entire life."

"Hmph. It's not my fault that my appearance creates such envy. And here I was thinking you were one who appreciated beautiful things." Vanity then looked to the mirror Inferno was trapped in. "Now to settle my unfinished business!"

Rarity's eyes went wide with horror, and she fell to her knees! "WAIT! Please! Don't hurt him! I'll...." Rarity looked to the ground in defeat. "I'll do...whatever you ask. Just set him free."

"Hmmm." Vanity tapped on the glass of the mirror she held. "Tell me. Just what does Seraph's son mean to you anyway?"

Rarity swallowed as she tried to hold back her tears. "He's everything to me. The one of the things that I treasure above all else." Rarity slowly raised her head so that her gaze met Vanity's. "I would do anything for him."

"He means that much to you does he?" Vanity asked with a cruel smile. "Very well then. I believe we can come to an agreement. I will release your beloved. However, there is a price that must be paid for his freedom."

Rarity sighed before steeling her gaze. "Name it."

"Your youth and beauty. You shall surrender it to me." Vanity said with a sneered. "Rest assured. It will remain in good hands. In fact, one could say it would be improved once I add it to my own. Will you accept? Or does your love not mean as much as you claim him to be?" Vanity asked as she extended her hand.

Rarity took a deep breath, and motioned for her friends to stay away. "I accept." Rarity took Vanity's hand, and a poison purple cloud surrounded Rarity! When the cloud faded, Rarity was old woman with her hair color fading.

"Let it not be said I don't keep my word." Vanity said with a smirk as she snapped her fingers! Releasing Inferno from the mirror!

Inferno immediately knelt down and took one of her hands. "Rarity...why? Why did you give up so much just more me?!"

"Oh, darling..." Rarity said as she brought her free hand to touch Inferno's face. "You've given me so much. I always wanted a fairytale romance. But you certainly gave it an interesting test. After you've given me so much happiness, I couldn't imagine a world without you. To keep my own life while you spent yours eternally imprisoned? I could never be that selfish." Rarity slowly closed her eyes as a smile formed on her lips. "Now I've given something precious to you as well." Rarity then slowly faded away with a white light. Only to return not a moment later in another brilliant flash! However, her youth and beauty had been restored. But there was a new addition. Brilliant white wings coated in diamond dust now adorned her back! Rarity looked at Inferno's face, and giggled. "And I suppose I should thank you again for proving how true my generosity is."

Vanity however, was furious! "I took your beauty once! And it shall be mine again!" Vanity summoned the same poison purple cloud and launched it at Rarity! However, it only crashed against a gem shield constructed by Rarity's magic!

"You speak of beauty when you have none?" Rarity asked with a smirk. "Please! True beauty comes from the heart! I've knows that every time Inferno looks at me. Earlier being the point that cements this fact!" Rarity then flared her wings out! The falling diamond dust making it look like the very air shined around her! "Radiant Banisher!" Rarity fired a blast of magic at Vanity! Trapping her in a gem, and shattering as Rarity snapped her fingers. "Now that's what I call a flawless finish!"

Inferno smiled. It's time...

One week later
Rarity was humming to herself as she admired her latest works. In addition to her new wings. "Well. Looks getting older won't be on my list of worries anymore." Rarity turned around, and saw Inferno walk in. "Welcome back Inferno! Here to give me some flying lessons?"

"Not exactly." Inferno said with a chuckle. "Hey? Giving up your looks for my freedom last week? I really want to make it up for you."

Rarity smiled lovingly. "Inferno, please. Everything worked out fine."

"No. It didn't." Inferno said as he shook his head. "You gave me your life. And there's not a whole lot I can do to repay you for something like that. But there is one thing. And I think I've been putting it off for way too long." Inferno pulled a small black box out of his pocket, and got down on one knee. "By giving you part of my life. Rarity? Will...you marry me?"

Rarity put a hand over her mouth in shock before running into Inferno's arms! "YES!" She screamed with joy! "Yes of course I'll marry you! Oh, Inferno! You've no idea how happy you've made me!"

"Hey. I had to give our fairytale its happy ending didn't I?" Inferno asked with a smile.

Rarity giggled. "Shut up and kiss me you handsome dragon!" And Inferno did just that.

Episode 15: Wedding Bells

Burst noticed something about Inferno. He'd been acting like there was nothing tying him to the ground, and had the goofiest grin in the world. "So. You're taking the end of your bachelor days pretty well."

"Maybe. But my bachelor days really weren't all they were cracked up to be." Inferno said with a chuckle. "Plus, I can't think of a better best man than you!"

Steel shot a puzzled look at Inferno. "Dude. You were a rock star making pretty good money AND had tons of girl throwing themselves at you. From any other point of view, that's a pretty sweet set up."

"True enough." Inferno said with a shrug. "But my dad gave it all up to spend the rest of his life with my mom. Now? I guess I know why they did it. Besides, the life of a celebrity can be lonely and isn't very private." Inferno took a sip from his soda as he stared at the sky in thought. "The whole world's waiting to see if and when you mess up. Trying to maintain a relatively clean image in my line of music? It's really done a number on me. Now? I don't have that pressure constantly crushing me. Plus, I met the love of my life. Could I really ask for more than that?"

Burst chuckled. "I won't lie. I was wondering when you'd pop the question to Rarity. All I gotta say is it's about time." Burst then came to a realization. "Hey, when DID you plan the wedding for anyway?"

"About...a month from now?" Inferno said as he scratched his head. "Why?"

Burst blinked. "Inferno? Have your parents met Rarity's family yet?"

"......CRAP!" Inferno cursed! "Oh man! I got so caught up in my life I forgot to introduce my parents to her! I gotta make a call!" At the same time Rarity was telling her parents all about Inferno.

"And that's how we wound up where we are right now." Rarity said with a fond smile. "Inferno should be dropping by soon. Ah! Here he is now!" Rarity got up from the table and took Inferno by the arm. "Mother. Father. This is Inferno Flare. My fiancé."

Inferno smiled and waved. "Nice to meet you! Your daughter's certainly a gem."

"Well, she did mention that you call her your treasure." Rarity's father noted. "I'm just glad that she's with someone who's treating her right."

Rarity's mother beamed at the sight of the couple. "Oh, the two of you just look so adorable together!"

"Heh! Darn right we do!" Inferno said as he put an arm and wing around Rarity. "Hey, I've got my folks dropping by soon. It'll be a good chance for both our families to meet up. They should be arriving by teleport pretty soon." Inferno then noticed a red flash, and smiled. "Huh. Looks like they're here right now!" Inferno's father was dragon lineage skyborn with ash grey skin, red eyes, and black hair. Inferno's mother was an avatar with jet black skin, fiery red hair, light red eyes, and black wings on her back. Inferno's father had more casual clothes on while his mother sported rocker gear. "Meet my parents. My dad Ash Blaze, and my mom Seraph Flare."

Rarity's parents immediately zipped over to Ash Blaze. "YOU'RE Inferno's father? Our first kiss was at one of your concerts!" Rarity's mother squealed with joy!

"Always nice to meet a fan." Ash said with a chuckle. "I also found love through my music. Right Sera?"

Seraph giggled. "You certainly serenaded me on that summer night." She then wrapped her arms around Ash. "Never before had I heard such passion when one was playing. You almost ignited your guitar strings as much as my heart." Seraph shared a deep kiss with her husband.

"MOM!" Inferno shouted as his face went red! "C'mon! Keep the PDA in check!"

Seraph giggled at her son's flustered state. "Oh like you're one to talk Inferno! I'll bet that you and that fine beauty by your side have gotten into your fair amount of make-out sessions." She then noted Rarity's wings. "Also, welcome to the club. You're going to enjoy not aging anymore."

"You didn't tell me your mother was such an affectionate woman." Rarity said with a sly smile.

Seraph laughed. "Comes with being the avatar of passion." She then noted how tight Rarity and Inferno were holding onto each other's hands. "Hmmm. Looks like the two of you are certainly passionate about your romance." Both Rarity and Inferno's faces flushed red!

"Come on Sera." Ash said with a chuckle. "Quit embarrassing the kids! They're gonna be tying the knot any day now!"

"A month to be specific." Sweetie Belle said with a smile.

"Let's hope our wedding's less eventful than the Canterlot one." Inferno said with a sigh.

"Looks like you've got some stories to tell son." Ash said with a smile.

Inferno laughed. "It's a bit of a long story."

"Considering you're immortal now? You've got nothing but time." Seraph quipped. And so, Inferno recounted the many adventures. From their battles against the Nightmare Forces, the final stand against Discord, the changeling invasion at the Royal Wedding, saving the Crystal Empire, and most recently the slaying of Tirek.

"Yeah. I guess you could say this quiet little town's seen a LOT of excitement." Inferno said with a sigh of relief. "But at least it's never boring." Inferno then smiled as he felt Rarity snuggle against him on the couch. "And nobody I'd rather share this crazy life with."

One month later
Inferno took a deep breath as he waited at the altar. He'd kept his usual sneakers whereas the rest of his outfit was a standard suit. Here I am. At the most wonderful moment of my life. I used to think that there'd be some small part of me that would scream to stay single for as long as possible. But you know what? Inferno looked down the aisle, and smiled when he saw Rarity walking down it. The two saying their vows, and kissing as their gathered friends and loved ones cheered! Rarity gave that part of me a good reason to shut up. "Here's to our happily ever after."

"Here's to eternity together." Rarity said with a loving smile as she threw the bouquet! "I wonder who will be next to get their happy ending?"

Meanwhile, Fluttershy blushed like crazy when she saw that the bouquet had landed in her arms. Both she and Tyrannus blushed!

Episode 18: Changing for the Better

Narico hummed to himself as he took a sip of his soda. Seeing the CMC get so excited about events in their school really made him miss being his true age. Though he had an adult changeling's body, he was still a child. Both in heart and at mind. His interest then piqued when he caught the girls mentioning Diamond Tiara. "She's STILL causing everyone so much trouble? I thought for sure Ms. Cheerilee would have kicked her out by now!"

"No such luck Narico." Scootaloo said with a sigh. "Diamond's family is super rich AND influential. The slightest wrong move against them, and your life is essentially over. Why do you think I've avoided socking it to her when she really deserves it?"

Sweetiebelle sighed. "It's hopeless. She'll just win class president. AGAIN."

"No." Narico said as he set his soda down. "That spoiled brat's been making trouble for far too long. She's made everyone so miserable! Especially you three! I don't know about you, but I'm not gonna stand for her treating everyone like dirt! If there's any time to make a stand, it's now!"

Applebloom tilted her head in confusion. "But Narico, what can we do? Diamond's unbreakable!"

Narico slowly smiled. "I never thought there'd come a day when I'd have to make use of my old observation training. Until today. We need to know our enemy. That's the first part to toppling Tiara. C'mon!" And with that, Narico and the CMC began to tail Diamond Tiara. "Keep out of her sight, and don't draw any attention to yourselves!"

"Please! Diamond's stuck in her own perfect little world!" Scootaloo snickered! "Chances are she won't even notice us spying on her long enough to teach her a lesson!"

Narico nodded. "All the same, better safe than sorry. Now try to keep quiet." The group took care to stay out of Diamond Tiara's sight, and eventually arrived at her home. "Alright. Here we are. Now we just need to get a good view of what's going on inside."

"I don't think we'll need to! Look!" Sweetiebelle whispered as she pointed to the front door opening. "I think that's Diamond Tiara's mom."

Scootaloo was about to make snide remark when the whole group witnessed Spoiled Rich berating Diamond about the class president election! She was treating Diamond way worse than Diamond had been to any of them! "Guys?"

"Yeah?" Applebloom asked.

Scootaloo gulped. "Is it...wrong that I actually feel sorry for Diamond Tiara?"

Narico narrowed his eyes, and buzzed his wings angrily. "It's not Diamond Tiara who's needs a lesson..." He growled. "But she still needs to learn there's a better way. There's one ultimate way to defeat your enemy: Make them your friend." Narico then saw Diamond Tiara leaving. "And I think now's our chance." The group then approached Diamond Tiara as they saw her sit on a bench and sulk.

"Hiya Diamond!" Applebloom greeted with a warm smile.

Diamond Tiara nearly jumped five feet in the air before putting her usual bully persona back on. "What do you losers want? Here to finally sick your pet changeling on me? Or are you here to-?!" Diamond Tiara was caught by surprise when the CMC gave her a big hug. "Wh-What are you losers doing?!"

"Hugging you dummy!" Scootaloo said with a smirk. "What's it look like?"

Diamond Tiara was in complete shock. "....WHY?"

"Because you need someone to be nice to you without being scared." Sweetiebelle said matter-of-factly. "Plus, I don't think your mom hugs you enough."

Diamond Tiara gave a defeated sigh. "You saw that, huh?"

"Sure did. No wonder you were so rotten." Applebloom said in a caring tone. "Why don't ya just tell yer dad about how awful yer mom's treatin' ya?"

Diamond Tiara shook her head. "None of you would understand..."

"Hey! We understand enough to know that's not how family should treat each other!" Scootaloo interrupted. "And if you can't talk to your family, you can always turn to your friends. Right now? I'd say you really need some."

Diamond Tiara began to cry. "Why? Why are you being so nice to me when I've been so awful to all of you?"

"Because it's not completely your fault." Narico answered as he knelt down to their level. "And because everyone's got the capacity for change. Whether for good or bad. Now I've got an important question for you. Which was are YOU going to change?"

Diamond Tiara blinked before heading back into her house and confronting her mother. "Mother. I'm going to be dropping out of the class president election." At hearing this, Spoiled Rich was outraged. And Diamond just stood still with a calm expression. Long enough for her father to notice Spoiled screaming at their daughter.

"Spoiled?" Filthy Rich said in a cross tone. "We're done. I didn't want to believe Diamond Tiara was ever as bad a girl as Ms. Cheerilee said she was. But now that I know it's true. And you're the one responsible. She was perfect just the way she was."

Spoiled Rich was in shock. "But...but I-!"

"Save it." Filthy Rich said sternly. "We're done. You'd best pack your things and get to the courthouse. Before I've half a mind to report you for abuse." And from then on, that was the last anyone ever saw of Spoiled Rich. The next day, Diamond Tiara stood at the school house, and waited for the CMC. Narico smiled at how much happier the girls seemed. So much so that he was soon enveloped in a flash of green fire! Narico grinned as he practiced his shape shifting.

"Changing for the better it is." Narico said with a smile as he flew off.

Episode 19: "Brothers"

For Burst Stream, it was any other day. Sitting around, playing videogames while Nightmare Moon occupied herself with either a book or one of his various handheld consoles. However, Burst's gaming was soon interrupted by a knock on the door. "Odd. I'm not expecting anyone." Burst paused his game, and answered the door. He immediately frowned when he saw who was at the door. Blitz Surge. Burst then promptly slammed the door shut. Only to hear knocking once again. Burst sighed as he opened the door, and saw Princess Luna standing with Blitz. "Luna? What're you doing up at this hour?" Burst then shot a dirty look at Blitz. "I'm guessing this creep's got something to do with it?"

"Well he IS courting me." Luna said proudly.

Moon immediately zipped over to the door and got right in Luna's face! "WHAT?!" Moon then looked from Luna to Blitz. "Luna. Just what do you see in this creep?!"

"What are you talking about?" Luna asked.

Moon facepalmed before letting out a groan. "Luna. HE'S the one who nearly fried Sombra's mind! Not to mention he was pretty reckless when the bugbear was attacking not a few weeks ago!" Moon narrowed her eyes as she glared at Blitz. "I've got a bad feeling about him."

"I didn't know you had a taste for the dark side 'brother'." Blitz scoffed. "Though I don't see why you wasted any time at all on a-" Blitz went silent when he was staring down the barrel of one of Burst's blasters. And Burst's gaze said everything. He was pissed off.

"Finish that sentence." Burst said coldly. "By all means, go on. Finish your thought. I'm just dying to know what you were going to call her." Burst then got in Blitz's face. "Normally I'm the nicest guy on the face of the planet. But I don't tolerate any bullshit. Friends who treat each other horribly. People who talk crap about my family. But above all?" Burst flashed his nightmare form's eyes. "I'll NEVER tolerate anyone who decides to demean the people I love." Burst backed off. "Besides. Saying Moon's not worth my effort is like saying Luna's not yours. You do know those two are tied together pretty closely, right?"

Blitz dusted himself off. "I came here to see how you spend your leisure time. Maybe there's something tolerable about you."

"Gee. Didn't know you cared." Burst said coldly. "Well I was in the middle of playing videogames." Burst led Blitz inside, and showed him the game. "Was just playing Transformers: Devastation." Burst then sat down, and resumed playing.

Blitz shot a puzzled look at Burst. "You still enjoy such things from your childhood? At your age?"

"Did you EVER have a childhood?" Burst asked as he paused the game, and glared at Blitz. "Or did you waste all your time trying to be like Dad? Sure, he might've trained a lot. But he never forgot to have fun. Besides, there's no shame in still liking something from your childhood. I still watch Power Rangers and I know all the theme songs. I still collect and play with Yu-Gi-Oh! cards. What do you do in your free time? Train?" Burst sighed. "Here's hoping Luna gets you to loosen up."

Blitz shook his head. "I have spent some time courting the fair Luna."

"Then why don't you just date her already?" Burst asked in an annoyed tone. "Seriously. You just flirting with her can't last forever. Sooner or later, you gotta step it up!"

Blitz blinked. "You would leap into a relationship with no plan present?"

Burst sighed, and paused his game once again. "Look Blitz. Love's like a battlefield. You gotta go in with everything you've got, and from there it's all improvised. Sure. Sometimes you'll get knocked around. But love hurts sometimes. I should know." Burst's mind reflected upon the instance he and Celestia were momentarily broken-up. "You'll never know if things are gonna work out unless you jump in and try to build something up. Now get out."

"Fine." Blitz said with a scowl. "I'll see just how well your methods work. If only to prove how foolish they are. Are you done here Luna?"

Luna nodded and left with Blitz. However, she was pretty cross. "You had no right to speak to Moon like that you know."

"Why are you showing such concern for her?" Blitz asked with a frown. "Isn't she your greatest source of pain? Wasn't she responsible for your banishment and Celestia knowing great sorrow in your absence?"

Luna slapped Blitz across the face! "Listen well. She alone is not to blame for the events of one thousand years ago. I created her with the intent of having a friend who could give me the time my sister couldn't afford to. But my anger and jealousy accidentally warped her. Anger and envy born out of Celestia's neglect and ignorance. Nightmare Moon simply wanted to make me happy. My sister and I hold just as much blame as she does. Burst saw that. He sees the good in everyone." Luna gave a disappointed sigh. "And I really want to see it in you too."

Blitz was completely silent. But his inner state was a stark contrast to his outer demeanor. "I AM good. I'm better than Burst because I'm doing what he failed to do." Blitz then cupped Luna's face. "Making you happy after your return."

"I suppose...that makes some form of sense." Luna said with a small smile. "I certainly wouldn't mind being a bit...closer to you."

Blitz smiled. "Need a bodyguard?"

"I'll...consider recommending you." Luna said with a blush.

Episode 20: Parallels

It was around the time for Hearth's Warming. And Lumina had decided to have a little chat with Abyss over their respective children. "To be honest, I didn't think you'd ever want to willingly speak with me." Lumina said as Abyss sat down. "Especially considering the fact I'm the woman who Aether chose instead of you."

"I wanted Aether to be happy." Abyss said with a shrug. "And if I could not give him that happiness, I saw no reason to chain him. Contrary to what you might think, I hold no resentment towards you."

Lumina nodded slowly. "Good. Looks like we won't be at each other's throats after all."

"So it seems." Abyss said with a smile. "You've certainly raised a fine son in Burst Stream. Just like my Blitz."

Lumina promptly frowned. "Burst is nothing like your son. But I don't believe there are bad children. Only bad parents."

"What are you implying?" Abyss asked with an offended look. "I may not have given Blitz the luxury of having two loving parents to raise him, but I've provided him with all I have!"

Lumina raised her hands. "Whoa, take it easy there! I'm not saying that Blitz is less of a person because he was raised only by you. And if you got that notion, I apologize. But just HOW did you raise him? Just what about Aether did you tell him that's driven him to wanting to become 'worthy' of being his son? Aether has already accepted Blitz as his son. So just what did you do to him that's driven Blitz so far to the edge?"

Abyss slowly stood up. "From the moment Blitz came into this world, he became everything I had wanted from Aether. The child I could never have naturally with him. And so, I made Blitz's happiness my priority. Blitz would always ask about his father, and I would indulge him. I told him many times of Aether's feats. Blitz wanted so badly to be like Aether. Who was I to deny him that?"

"You're terrible." Lumina said sternly. "Can't you see you're the reason why Blitz is so horrible? You've been enabling him by yielding to his wishes! Can't you see what's becoming of him? Or what he's already become?! Mark my words Abyss, your son is no hero! No matter how hard he tries, he'll be NOTHING like Aether! Because he ISN'T Aether!

Abyss stared coldly. "Neither is Burst. And yet he's the one who resembles Aether the most."

"Because he isn't deliberately trying to become him." Lumina shot back. "He isn't trying to "live up to Aether's legacy" or "become a worthy son". Burst just wants to be a good person, and live happily. To live his own life. It's no wonder the two of them aren't trying to kill each other from all the times they've met! Can you really say you're happy with how your son is acting?"

Abyss stared at Lumina in silence. "I.....I need to go." Abyss teleported back to her house, and picked up a picture. In it were herself, and a young Blitz Surge. Abyss looked sadly at the picture. In specific, Blitz's smile. "...What happened to that smile I used to see?" Abyss then sunk to her knees as she held the picture close to her chest. "Was I the one who took it away? Or did Blitz give it up?"

Episode 21: Nightmare's Light

Another year had come and gone, and Nightmare Night had arrived in the fall. Like his friends, Burst was planning on dressing up for the festival. However, he noticed one person that was close to him seemed to be in a less than enthusiastic mood. "Hey Moon? Are you alright?"

Nightmare Moon shook her head. "Oh, it's nothing Burst. Just...not feeling in all that happy a mood right now."

"I'd say it's a bit deeper than that." Burst said with a frown. "It's because of what night it is, right? Nobody's gonna run away from you screaming. Especially since you've moved far from your past! Heck, Celestia and Luna considered cancelling the holiday because it might bring up bad memories you had!"

Moon smiled. "Awfully considerate of them. But, that's not why I'd rather not celebrate." Moon then looked out the window. "No. The fact is that tonight's supposed to be for Luna. True. My face is on a lot of the decorations out there. But the Nightmare Moon whose legend is told to the kids isn't me. It's not my night. And I've got no right to take it away from Luna."

"Luna really means a lot to you, doesn't she?" Burst asked.

Moon nodded. "Yes. She's the whole reason I exist in the first place. In a lot of ways, I owe her my life. I've taken away her smile once." Moon then held herself. "That's something I swore I'd never do again." She then looked Burst in the eyes, and giggled. "Sometimes I'm half tempted to call her 'Mom' just to mess with her." Moon then walked over to Burst. "Hey. Don't let me stop you from having a good time tonight. Wouldn't be fair if I kept you while your friends are out there. So don't let me keep you." Burst reluctantly left to change into his costume, that being a fusion of Ike from Fire Emblem and Dante from DMC.

"Alright. But I really think you should come with me."

As soon as Burst was out the door, Moon sighed and looked at her own costume stashed away in the closet. "Maybe it couldn't hurt if I go in costume. It covers up all of me, so if I hide my wings nobody should find me out." Moon slipped on her costume. That being Samus in her power suit. And with that, she headed to the festival.

Upon arriving, Moon caught sight of the usual crowd gathered for the announcements. However, something very unusual was present. Namely Fluttershy being out on the night she disliked the most. What's gotten into her that has her going out tonight of all nights? Moon then surveyed the crowd, and noticed something else odd. They all seemed to be waiting. But for what? She soon found her answer as Zecora told everyone of her legend. However, this was also very different from what Moon had expected. As opposed to the tale of Nightmare Moon scouring the night looking for a meal, this legend told of her safeguarding dreams and sleep. What's going on? That's not the story I saw being told before I got my own body!

Sure enough, Zecora led a group of children to the Nightmare Moon statue outside of town. However, the kids left candy and saying thanks for Moon protecting them in their sleep. Even Celestia and Luna showed up. Celestia dressed up as Trish while Luna was dressed up as Sailor Moon. Celestia leaving a piece of cake. Some of the kids asked the princesses if Moon would actually show up.

Celestia sighed sadly. "I'm afraid not children. It looks like Princess Moon won't be showing up tonight."

"Indeed." Luna said sadly. "Such a shame. You all put so much thought into leaving her sweets."

Moon smiled under her helmet. "Oh...I wouldn't be too sure about that." Moon slipped off her helmet. "Sorry to keep you all waiting!" Moon then walked over to the pile of candy left at her statue, and popped a piece into her mouth. "Hope you didn't give me all the good stuff from your hauls!" Moon was then surprised when the kids started cheering for her. And she couldn't help but giggle at seeing them happy. "Thank you. All of you. Now it's my turn to give you all a little something." Moon flared her magic, and a shower of stardust fell over town! Everyone cheered in delight! "Happy Nightmare Night!" Moon called out proudly. And with that, the party was in full swing! Celestia giving up Burst to Moon for a special dance. Moon was wearing a Zero Suit Samus costume under her power suit. Freeing up more of her so she could enjoy the dance. "Thanks." Moon whispered into Burst's ear.

"What'd I do?" Burst asked.

Moon giggled as she pulled Burst closer to her body. "For lighting up my life. Especially tonight." And that was Moon's best night ever.

Author's Note

I am sooo sorry I couldn't roll this chapter out for Halloween! But better late than never!

Episode 22: Inner Demons

For the past few days, Shadow had been feeling strange. Whenever he started to think about Starlight, a voice would gnaw at his mind. But the scary part was, it was Shadow's own voice. "I gotta get to the bottom of this." Shadow headed to Burst's house, and knocked on the door.

"Shadow?" Burst asked as he answered the door. "What're you doing here?"

Shadow sighed. "Hey, Burst? Have you ever...heard your own voice going off in your head?" He then gripped his arm. "Saying you're weak? Especially...after you screw up something really, really badly?"

"Shadow. I'm pretty familiar with what you're talking about." Burst said with a sage nod as he shifted into his nightmare form. "Facing that voice is what gained me this power. I made peace with my darkness, and faced my inner demons. And I'd say you need to face yours."

Shadow blinked. "So...will I get a form like yours."

"No." Burst said as he shook his head. "I got this form because my dark side decided to strike in what I consider as my greatest moment of weakness. But where you've been mostly at peace with yours, you've been shaken to your core by your solo mission. And what you consider as your greatest failure. Unlike mine when it was something that hit me all at once? Yours has been slowly amassing and slowly eating away at you." Burst returned to his regular form. "And you need to face it. Before it consumes all of you."

Shadow nodded. "Alright. ....How do I do that? Some sort of spell to make me fight it in the real world?"

"No Shadow." Burst said with a sigh. "You're going to have to fight within yourself. At the core of your being. And fair warning? It's going to be the most difficult battle you'll ever fight. Your dark side will try to break you. Try to get you to agree with it and call you weak. And it'll either try to place all the blame solely on you, or someone else. But never forget one thing."

Shadow scratched his head. "What's that?"

"That it's a part of you. And it only has as much power as you give it. THAT'S what determines how strong it." Burst said sternly. "Close your eyes, and picture the entrance to your core."

Shadow nodded, and took a deep breath as he pictured the core of his being. A doorway appeared before him, and Shadow stepped through. As he walked through, Shadow found himself back in Starlight's village. However, it was empty. "Weird." Shadow thought out loud. "But I guess it makes sense that I'd wind up here. Now to find my dark side. Where is it?"

"Closer than you think." A voice chuckled out from all around Shadow. Shadow looked down at his...well, shadow, and saw it starting to form its own body. Pale yellow eyes and a sneer greeted him as his dark side fully manifested. "Good to finally talk to you. I'm your replacement."

Shadow was confused. "Replacement? What're you talking about?!"

"Isn't it obivous?" Dark Side said with a chuckle. "You're so pitifully weak. You've barely seen any action. You've got no "Big Hero" moments to speak of like your brothers and your friends. And last but not least..." A malicious smile crept across Dark Side's face. "You failed to save her." Shadow's eyes went wide with horror when he saw a crying and chained Starlight at the center of town!

Shadow immediately dashed towards Starlight! "STARLIGHT!" Shadow was only a few feet away when the blade of a spear blocked his way! Shadow saw his dark side pointing a spear at him! A dark version of his own Duelist Arm. "Out of my way!" Shadow summoned his Duelist Arm, and slashed at his dark side!

"No can do." Shadow's dark side sneered. "You failed her!" He then caught an opening in Shadow's stance, and slashed Shadow across the chest! "You've done enough to hurt her already." Shadow's dark side then kept at his attacks! Slashing at Shadow while he was still shaking off the first attack! "It's because of you she's alone now! Because of you that she's hurting so much! If only you hadn't decided to tag along with the girls!" The sneer on the dark side's face only grew as he further spat words to wound Shadow just as much as the slashes on his body! "It's all your fault she ran away." Shadow's dark side then stood in front of Starlight. "And I won't let you hurt her any more than you have." Shadow groaned as he tried to raise himself to his feet. His dark side sneered at his efforts. "Look how weak you are. How did you ever become an Element of Heroism? You can't even get to your feet!" The mocking laughter of Shadow's dark side rang throughout the whole village.

Shadow had never felt so badly beaten in his life. However, he came to a realization as he rose to his feet. "You're right."

"I...beg your pardon?" Shadow's dark side asked in confusion.

Shadow chuckled. "You're right. It IS my fault that Starlight blames me for essentially ruining her life. But you know what? It's not ALL my fault." Shadow looked his dark side in the eye, and smiled. "Because I can't save someone who doesn't want to be saved or admit they're wrong. Don't get me wrong. It still hurts me that I couldn't have helped Starlight in the way I wanted to. But it's better than making no effort at all. And I can't fault myself for her not wanting to admit she's wrong. That's something she's got to do for herself." Shadow then raised his Duelist Arm! "And don't forget! You're part of who I am! When you blame me, you're blaming yourself too!" Shadow's dark side was so stunned at this revelation he didn't even notice Shadow flying right at him! "And it's about time that we own up to it!" Shadow then pierced through his dark side! "It's not just me to blame for what happened. We're to blame for it. Me for failing to save Starlight at the village, and you for faulting me alone for that failure. But you know what? I'll still carry that blame. For both of us. And do what I can to make it right." Shadow's dark side slowly faded away, and merged with him.

Back in the real world, Burst watched as Shadow slowly opened his eyes. "So? How do you feel?"

"A bit less guilty, and a lot more whole." Shadow said with a small smile. "And now, I think I'll be able to face Starlight when I see her again." Shadow then put a hand over his heart. "And something tells me that'll be pretty soon..."

Episode 24: Malefic Menace Part 1

Starlight Glimmer staggered as she walked about Canterlot. A flyer advertised a lecture that Twilight Sparkle was holding. In specific, one that highlighted how she and her friends had met. Normally, Starlight would've been pushed on by her desire for vengeance. But the nightmares that Nightmare Moon had planted in her mind to show her the truth of her actions were leaving her drained. Heavy bags were under her eyes. She almost had to slap herself to stay awake and learn of the Sonic Rainboom. Yes! This is it! If I can stop the Rainboom, I can prevent Twilight and her friends from ever ruining my perfect equality! Starlight soon left, and teleported herself to the Castle of Friendship. She made her way in, and found the spell she was looking for! However, her vision started to blur as her body fell to the ground.

Nightmare Moon soon arrived at the Castle of Friendship. Carrying books she'd been meaning to return to Twilight. However, once she caught sight of Starlight unconscious on the floor with the time travel spell in hand, she frowned. "It seems you're still far too stubborn to learn." Moon conjured up some magic chains to both detain Starlight and suppress her magic. Moon then dialed up Twilight's number. "Twilight? You and your friends might want to get to your castle. There's something you all should really see." She then dialed up Shadow's number. "Shadow. I think your connection to Starlight's paid off."

A few minutes later
"...Nnnghhh...." Starlight groaned as she started to regain consciousness. She opened her eyes, and saw The Main 6 and the Elements of Heroism as well as Nightmare Moon staring her down. Starlight tried to move and charge up her magic, but found herself immobile and magic-less due to the chains Moon had conjured up! "LET ME GO!" Starlight screamed as she whipped her head in Moon's direction! "Nightmare Moon is just standing right next to all of you! She could wipe you all out at any minute! Let me go, and I'll help you fight her!"

Rainbow Dash shot a confused look at Starlight. "You don't get out much, do you? Moon's cool."

"She's changed Starlight." Shadow said as he stepped forward. "We helped her become better as a person. And we want to do the same for you. Starlight, we're all different. Some of us are polar opposites of each other. And despite that, we've become the best of friends. Differences, inequalities, are the one thing we all have in common. Your thinking's so flawed, and so misguided. Would you have cut the wings off a Skyborn to make them the same as an Earthbound?"

Starlight was about to counter when she actually put some thought into Shadow's words. "I...no! No, I'd never do something so cruel! I couldn't live with myself if I mutilated anyone like that!"

"But you've done so much worse." Moon said as she walked up to Starlight. "You've mutilated that village's very souls. By forcing your own mentality on them. Repressing their own thoughts and emotions. All to make them 'equal'. Honestly? It took a lot to not simply smite you on the spot." Starlight froze in terror at Moon's words. Moon's gaze softened as she noted Starlight's fear. "But that wouldn't have ended your threat. Or your pain."

Shadow took a knee in front of Starlight. "Starlight. I know you weren't always like this. Something, and I don't know what, changed you. Scarred you. And made you think the way you do now. What you would've tried to do wouldn't have fixed your problems. That's why I tried to talk you down back at the village. You ran away last time. Now? I'd say you don't have much of a choice but to explain yourself."

"Starlight, we want to help you." Twilight said with pleading eyes. "How are we supposed to help when we don't even know what's made you the way you are?"

Starlight stared at Twilight coldly. "You want to know how I became like this? Fine! I'll tell you! I lost my best friend because he got his cutie mark! Sunburst and I did everything together! He was all I had after my parents passed on! And the second he got his cutie mark, he left for Canterlot to study at Celestia's School for Gifted Magi! And because of that, I never tried to make another friend! Because I knew it would only be a matter of time before I lost them because of a cutie mark too!" Starlight caught her breath, and noticed everyone had either bored or disinterested looks on their faces. "Well, that's my tragic past. Aren't any of you the least bit moved by my plight?"

"Pffft! Ah ha ha ha ha ha!" Moon burst into laughter! "Oh, I'm sorry! It-it's just! Pffft! That's so pathetic!" Moon soon composed herself. "Look Starlight. Your origin? It's just stupid. Did you even TRY to write to your friend while he was in school? You know, keep in touch?"

Starlight blinked. "Uh...no?"

"Then maybe your friend didn't mean that much to you." Moon said with a shrug. "For a second I thought about considering you a capable villain. But now? You're just sad. Sure. You did something pretty wicked upon your encounter with Twilight and her friends. But it means squat if you've got a lousy motivation. All because you didn't make any effort to keep in touch with your friend."

Starlight looked at the floor in defeat. "I...feel pretty stupid now." She then met eyes with the group. "So, what happens now?"

"Now?" Moon asked. She snapped her fingers as the chains she'd summoned vanished. "We forgive you." Starlight smiled, but it soon vanished as soon as Moon placed an inhibitor ring on Starlight's fingers as well as a pair of cuffs on her wrist that Nightfall had provided.

"But...but I thought you said I was forgiven!" Starlight cried.

Moon sighed. "Yes. We've forgiven your actions. But did you really think that you wouldn't be punished for your actions? You did something pretty messed up. Can you honestly tell yourself that this isn't deserved?"

"That's...a fair point actually." Starlight said as she scratched her chin in thought. "So...am I gonna be thrown in a dungeon?"

Moon smirked. "Actually, your punishment is reformation. And Friendship Lessons. Oh! And you're Twilight's problem now." She then shot a mischievous smile at Twilight. "Have fun!"

"Wait, what?!" Twilight screamed! "Why is she going to be 'my problem'?!"

Moon giggled. "Because I know how much you look up to Celestia as a mentor. No time like the present for you to start following her example!" Moon then held up the time travel spell. "This was Starlight's goal. A time travel spell created by Starswirl himself."

"One of HIS spells? In my library?" Twilight squealed with joy! "This is amazing! A spell like that is incredible! It's rare!"

"It's ash." Moon interjected as she incinerated the spell page with her magic! "Before you go on about how I 'desecrated a piece of history', I'd like to explain myself Twilight. Starlight would've used this to prevent Rainbow Dash's Sonic Rainboom and prevent you all from ever meeting. Even if you were to use this spell with good intentions, the alterations that you would make could profoundly change the world you know so well. It wouldn't be the same place you left. Twilight, do you really want to risk the world you know and love for something so pitiful?"

Twilight sighed. "I guess you're right. No one should have that power."

"Plus, we don't want to have a Legend of Zelda Timeline on our hands, do we?" Burst joked to lighten the mood. Everyone shared a laugh!

Meanwhile. Elsewhere.
An unstable portal popped into existence! Sickly green lightning crackled around it as a lone figure fell out! The figure slowly rose to his feet. "At last. Held prisoner by that old fool's spell....no longer I AM FREE!" He then summoned forth an odd black and white material. The large mass separating into smaller forms. Strange constructs that floated before their master. "Go. Find the Duelist Arms. You know what to do with them." The drones flew off, and the figure cracked a wicked smile. "Ah. My old master. Your greatest creations shall soon become my greatest weapons. And when I have them, The world shall be remade with my malefic magic!"

TO BE CONTINUED!

Episode 25: Malefic Menace Part 2

Starlight yet out a yawn as she woke up. "Well, things could've gone a lot worse for me." Starlight stretched, and headed into the castle's kitchen for breakfast. "So what's on the menu Spike?"

"Pancakes. An oldie but a goodie." Spike answered. He then frowned when he saw Starlight's uneasy expression. "Would you quit looking like we're gonna throw you into Tartarus in an instant? Geez!"

Starlight laughed nervously. "I almost completely rewrote the timeline. You all being forgiving so quickly is a bit hard to believe."

"You're still without magic, and you're confined to the castle unless I'm accompanying you. I'd say you're being dealt with in a mostly sensible fashion." Twilight answered as she grabbed a couple pancakes. "Besides. You've acknowledged the fault of your actions. More than I can say for Discord. Or Tirek. But I wouldn't worry about the latter."

Starlight blinked. "Did he get sent back to Tartarus?"

"Let's just say...he's taken up permanent residence there. Courtesy of Burst Stream." Twilight answered. "Oh! Speaking of Burst and the guys, we'd better get going soon Spike! They plan on getting some more training in." Twilight then turned her gaze to Starlight. "I think you'd better come along too. I think the best way to see how differences can work well together is to see us in action. Come on!" Twilight and Spike led Starlight to a clearing where the rest of the Main 6 and the Elements of Heroism had gathered.

Burst smiled. "Glad all of you could make it. Today's training's gonna be different from the usual pairing up. Today we're fighting in teams."

"C'mon Burst! We know you and the guys are all about training, but why're you dragging us into this?" Rainbow Dash whined. "Most of us have become Avatars, and are crazy levels of badassness! We're the best!"

Burst sighed. "Rainbow Dash. Don't you WANT to stay at the top of your game? Yeah. A good number of us are Avatars now. But that's no excuse to not practice and maintain our skills." Burst then smirked. "Besides, don't you wanna try wiping the floor with Steel?"

"Hey!" Steel snapped. "Not cool Burst! You know she can do it too!"

Burst chuckled. "Then you better not hold anything back. Alright then! There's gonna be two groups of six, and one group of seven. Each group splits into a team. I think you can all figure out where I'm going with this, so I won't keep you!" As the groups split up, Starlight paid close attention to their actions. Each of them had a different way of fighting. Whether it was favoring the air, ground, magic, melee weapons, or ranged weapons. However, she noted that each of the group's different styles seemed to encourage a united stand. Each style covered one are that another was weak in. And through these differences, those who were sparring were a team. However, Starlight noticed something odd heading in their direction. A rude interruption in the form of odd objects hovering over them.

They were mechanical by the looks of things, and had an odd black and white coloring. A strange, sickly green orb at their fronts. These were the Malefic Scout Drones. Burst was about to raise his blaster when a beam of green light shot out from the orb of one of the scout drones enveloped his blaster! The beam soon faded, and the drones then spread out! However, Starlight noticed something odd. The scout drones paid no attention to the Main 6's Harmony Keepers and focusing on the Duelist Arms. In specific, the ones that were based on dragons. Starlight was then shocked as one of the scouts scanned her before rejoining the other scout drones! And before both sets of elements could fight back, the scout drones left as soon as they were done scanning! "Soooo, is this a normal sort of weird for today?" Starlight asked.

"Considering those things just screamed ominous? I wouldn't say so." Shadow answered. "But there's no sense in getting worked up about it now. Whatever badguy's going to rise next, we're gonna need to wait for them to make their move."

Burst nodded. "True enough Shadow. Training's over for the day." And with that, both sets of elements went about their days. However, Shadow walked up to Starlight.

"Yeah, our lives aren't exactly what you'd consider normal." Shadow said with a chuckle. "Especially since we all came together as teams of heroes." Shadow noticed that Starlight still looked pretty down. "Hey. You still going through the brooding pity cycle?"

Starlight snapped her head in Shadow's direction! "Wh-what?! Pfft! Nah! I'm good!"

"No. You're not." Shadow said as he shook his head. "You still feel pretty guilty about your actions, right? Forgive me for saying this, but I'd say it's guilt that's pretty well-placed. But you're already serving a punishment. I'd say having your magic inhibited is a more than suitable sentence."

Starlight sighed, and gave Shadow a defeated smile. "Fine. You got me. But how did you know that I was going through what you just said?"

"Starlight, have I got a story for you." Shadow said with a smile. "But it might take a little while. Care to listen to it over a soda?"

Starlight nodded. "Sure. Lead the way." Shadow and Starlight headed off to Sugar Cube Corner, and Shadow retold the events of Ice's character arc. From his running away from home, to his joining with the Nightmare Forces, his awakening as the Element of Courage, and Ice's ascension into an Avatar.

"And I guess that's my brother's character arc." Shadow concluded. "But I guess his romance could've used a little more development. But I guess you could make that argument for a few of my other friends' current relationships."

Starlight giggled. "True. You know? That gives me an idea. Why not have the two of us be a couple?"

"...Wat." Shadow said completely dumbfounded.

Starlight smiled. "Think about it. We've had some pretty decent development, and we got a good base for our relationship. Especially from what Moon told me about you." She then placed her hand over Shadow's. "Shadow...did you really regret me running away that much? Did I really shake your core that badly?"

"...Yeah. You did." Shadow said with a sigh. "I'm part of a team that's known for pulling off feats of heroism that most would consider impossible. Together? We've faced threats and saved countless people. And me on my own? I couldn't save someone who needed help badly."

Starlight's face saddened. "Maybe you should have run after me. But you can't fault yourself for me being too blind to see that I was wrong. Or how I had hurt people. So both of us have made some wrong calls." Starlight slowly smiled. "But maybe...we can help each other make some right ones. Together."

"Y'know? I'd like that Star." Shadow said with a smile.

Starlight blinked. "Star?"

"My nickname for you." Shadow said with a chuckle. "So. Where to next?"

Starlight blushed and smiled nervously. "Do you...like kites?"

"I can do you one better." Shadow said with a smile. "Just hold on to me tightly." Shadow lead Starlight outside, and Starlight wrapped her arms tightly around his waist from the back. "Here we go!" Shadow took to the skies! As soon as they were a good way up in the sky, Shadow hovered in place. "You can open your eyes now."

Starlight slowly opened her eyes, and looked in wonder at seeing herself and Shadow up among the clouds. "Whoa. So this is what it looks like being up here."

"Yup. Sure is a nice view when it's clear." Shadow nodded. "Care to find out how flying feels?" Starlight nodded excitedly. Shadow smiled. "Just keep holding tight!" Shadow flew forward! The wind blasting in his and Starlight's faces!

"WOOOOHOOOO!" Starlight hollered with joy as she felt the rush of the wind pulse through her heart and mind! Soon enough, Shadow landed on the ground and Starlight dismounted from his back. "That was amazing! But Shadow? I could've used a levitation spell I know so that I could fly too."

Shadow tilted his head in confusion. "So why'd you just go with me flying you around if you could've just been flying on your own?"

"Well, it takes a lot of concentration and I didn't have much time to practice it." Starlight then blushed. "And...I didn't want to ruin our first date."

Shadow froze in place as he felt his heartbeat uncontrollably. "That's the sweetest thing any girl's ever said to me. I should know. A good number of my friends are girls."

"So...are we official now?" Starlight asked.

Shadow shook his head. "Sorry. Not quite yet. We've still gotta take the time to know each other. You know, give some time for our relationship to develop. But don't get me wrong." Shadow placed Starlight's hand over his heart. "Our feelings couldn't be made any more clear."

"...Thank you." Starlight said as she blushed. "So, see you around?"

Shadow smiled lovingly. "Definitely." And with that, Shadow flew off home while Starlight returned to the Castle of Friendship.

Meanwhile, the Malefic Scout Drones returned to their master. "Excellent." the dark being said as he inspected the scans of the Duelist Arms. "And I trust you found a suitable power source for my plan?" One of the drones brought up the image of Starlight. "Ah. Perfect. Now then." The figure focused his magic on the black and white substance that pooled around him. Molding it into all too familiar shapes. "On to phase 2."

[/Two weeks later. Outside of the Castle of Friendship.i]
"No way." Inferno said in shock as he stared at the video Nightfall pulled up. "That's impossible!"

Nightfall sighed. "I wish it were. I don't quite believe it myself. But take a good long look everyone." Nightfall paused the video. It was of the Royal Guard testing out new weapons. Nightfall then magnified the image of the weapons being tested. They looked exactly like the Duelist Arms. But the key difference between these strange replicas was that they shared none of the monster motifs the true Duelist Arms had, and were black and white in color. With sickly green blades, or firing blasts of sickly green energy. "Anyone willing to guess that whatever those things were yesterday might have something to do with this?"

"I called it!" Shadow announced proudly. The entire group stared at him with raised brows. "Well...I did, didn't I? But, let's focus on who's behind this."

"That would be me." A man wearing a black and white suit with odd patterning stepped forward the Elements of Heroism. "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Paradox Truth. Forgive my drones for being intrusive. But I had heard of your weapons. The Duelist Arms, correct? You could say they were an...inspiration for my current works. I take it that you've seen my creations demonstrated by the Royal Guard?"

Burst nodded. "You could say that. But why are you here? I'm pretty sure you've got other business to attend to."

"Indeed." Paradox said with a smirk. "I have business to discuss with Starlight Glimmer."

Shadow narrowed his eyes. "Hey. How come you know about Starlight Glimmer? Her reformation wasn't announced in any of the media!"

Paradox blinked and sneered. "I suppose I can do away with this charade now." A flash of sickly green energy enveloped Paradox! Changing his suit into a wizard's robe! "She is crucial to my machinations. And I'll not let any of you get in my way."

"We'll see about that." Burst said as he and the Elements of Heroism readied their weapons.

Paradox chuckled. "Indeed we shall." Paradox snapped his fingers, and the distorted copies he'd made of the Duelist Arms materialized! And along with them were what looked like brainwashed wielders! "Do you like them? My Malefic Arms use their wielders as opposed to your weapons. And I in turn manipulate the Malefic Arms. So much cleaner. Using those beneath you for your fighting!"

"Let's see if they're durable you coward!" Ice spat as he fired a power force shot from his claymore! Only for it to be intercepted by a malefic version of the same attack from one of the controlled royal guards! "Great! It's a mirror match!" And with that, most of the Elements of Heroism were occupied with the mind controlled guards used by the Malefic Arms. Save for Shadow who broke off from the group to try and beat Paradox to Starlight! But he was too light! Chains of malefic magic!

"STARLIGHT!" Shadow cried out as he flew at Paradox with his spear readied! It's dragon-head blade poised to strike Paradox in his heart! Only for Shadow to be shot back by a blast of magic!

Paradox sneered at Shadow's groaning form. "How noble of you to come to this girl's rescue. And how very, very foolish. You-AAGGH!" Paradox howled in pain when one of the Malefic Arms was destroyed! Unlike the Duelist Arms, the Malefic Arms were literally part of him. And it hurt like Tartarus when he felt a part of himself die. "It appears circumstances have dictated that I retreat. You want this girl? Come and get her. I'll even leave a portal should you and your friends be stupid enough to attempt a rescue mission. And I shall await you so that I may personally end you." Paradox disappeared in flash of magic. Taking his Malefic Arms with him and releasing the mind controlled guards.

"Damn it..." Shadow cursed as he slowly rose to his feet! "DAMN IIIIT!" Shadow punched a wall in his frustration. "Just when I had her. Right when I had finally thought she was safe....AGH!" Tears started to flow down Shadow's face.

Ace and Ice noticed their brother's distraught state of mind. "You're absolutely right Shadow. Starlight was taken from you." Ace said calmly as he placed a hand on Shadow's shoulder. "But that brings up a question. One you need to look deep within yourself to answer truthfully."

"A-and what's that?!" Shadow snapped as sobs wracked his voice.

"How badly do you want to get her back?" Ice asked bluntly. "Would you face Paradox's entire army yourself if it meant even the slightest chance of bringing Starlight back safely? Would YOU be her hero?"

Shadow stood completely still. Slowly, he turned around to face his brothers. Wiping the tears from his eyes as his gaze hardened with conviction. "I'd go against the world for her."

"Well, you won't need to fight alone." Burst said as he stepped before Shadow. "This is your story Shadow. And we're damn well getting you your happy ending! We'll handle the army. Paradox is all yours."

Shadow nodded. "Wouldn't want it any other way." The Elements of Heroism gazed upon the portal that lead to Paradox's lair. "Let's go!" Shadow led the charge into the portal! Once they were on the other side, they saw a single tower. Malefic magic pulsing from it through the very ground. And a horde of Malefic constructs Paradox had summoned to meet them. As the other Elements of Heroism engaged the horde, Shadow flew right for the tower! He busted down the doors! Spear raised and ready to fight! "PARADOX!"

"Ah. Just as I expected." Paradox said with a smirk.

Shadow narrowed his eyes. "Where's Starlight? What do you want with her?!"

"Ah. You mean my battery. If you wanted to see her so badly," Paradox snapped his fingers, and a chamber containing Starlight lowered. "you just needed to ask. As for why I took her, it's simple. My machine can't handle the divine magic of an Avatar. But an incredibly powerful Magi? That's more than well within its capability of handling. Thanks to her, I shall terraform all of Equestria! It shall become the Malefic World! Free of separation. Free of difference. A purely equal world where all is as I see fit! A world in my image!"

Shadow scoffed. "Slight problem. You're ugly." Shadow flew at Paradox! His Duelist Arm poised to strike! But his spear didn't strike the malefic mage! It hit the battery chamber Starlight was held in, and she cried out in pain! "Oh no! Starlight!"

Paradox sneered. "Your compassion for this girl is your weakness!" Paradox fired a concentrated blast of malefic magic at Shadow! "And that weakness will cost you your pitiful life!" Paradox continually battered Shadow with blast after blast! However, he'd made a critical error when using Starlight as a living battery. He'd removed the inhibitor ring that had suppressed her magic.

Starlight could feel the chamber leeching her magic away. It was slow and agonizing, but it paled in comparison to seeing Paradox brutally assault Shadow. Starlight focused her magic into a massive burst! Trashing the battery chamber and knocking both Shadow and Paradox to the ground! Starlight fell to her knees! Only to find her legs merged to the floor by the same substance that formed the Malefic Arms!

"You're proving to be more trouble than you're worth girl!" Paradox growled as he stood up and advanced meancingly towards Starlight! The malefic substance forming a bladed tendril. "If you'll not serve me alive, then I'll remedy your resistance by death!"

Starlight shut her eyes as the bladed tendril shot right at her! But when she opened her eyes, it had not torn through her. Someone else had taken the blow. "SHADOW!" Starlight held onto Shadow as his body fell limp after the bladed tendril dematerialized. "Why?! Why did you do that?"

"Easy...answer Star." Shadow said weakly as he tried to hold himself together. "I can't just....stay put and see people hurting. It's who I am...to help others that I don't even know. And I don't want to see you hurt anymore...Starlight." A weak smile spread across Shadow's lips. "I love you...Starlight..." And with that, Shadow's eyes closed. Only for his body to be enveloped by a blinding light! As soon as the light faded, Starlight found herself in Shadow's arms! But what startled her was the new wings on Shadow's back! They were dragon-like, but they looked like one of the celestial dragons to reside in Elysium guarding it's gates from the afterlife! "And now? I'm gonna get you out of here." Shadow turned to face Paradox. "Let's see how you like getting skewered!"

Paradox stumbled back in fear! "Y-You think I fear you boy?! I have an entire army to call upon of my own making!" Paradox snapped his fingers to summon his minions, but none appeared! "What is-NO!" Paradox stared in horror at his utterly decimated army!

"You talk a big game, but you suck at playing." Shadow remarked. "Because you consider yourself so high..." Shadow slashed at Paradox! The malefic mage desperately avoiding Shadow's strikes! "It's only natural that you'll fall so hard!" Paradox Truth summoned one of his Malefic Arms! Only for Shadow to shatter it! And as if to further Paradox's connection to the Malefic Arms, cracks appeared over his body! "Your weapons are literally a part of you, aren't they? If they go, so do you." Paradox frantically summoned another Malefic Arm, but Shadow once again destroyed it! Causing the cracks to spread even further across Paradox! "But I'll just strike at the core of the problem!" The blade of Shadow's spear glowed with golden light! "HALO STRIKE!" A ring of light launched forward as Shadow slashed with his spear! Slicing right through Paradox's core! And as Paradox's core shattered, so did he! His debris crumbling away into dust! "Looks like he couldn't hold himself together."

Starlight giggled at Shadow's pun, but panicked a little when she felt the whole lair rumble! "Something tells me that with Paradox gone, his lair can't hold it together either!"

"Then let's get out before we get torn apart!" Shadow replied as he scooped up Starlight! "Think you can hold on as tightly as last time?" Shadow flew out the window as the rest of the Elements of Heroism made a break for the collapsing portal! The group narrowly avoiding the complete of Paradox's Malefic world! Shadow breathed a sigh of relief. Or at least, he would have if Starlight didn't press her lips against his the second she saw an opening. "Well, if weren't official before, we are now. Better get going. Chances are Pinkie's been planning another party for us."

Later that night
Burst let out a fond sigh as he looked at how peaceful Ponyville looked from the sky. "Well, another battle's come and gone. But even if another villain shows up, I wouldn't worry." Burst landed. "Me and my friends can handle it."

"So it would seem as your track record suggests." Blitz Surge replied. Burst spun around to face his "brother".

"What do you want asshole?" Burst asked with an annoyed look on his face.

Blitz shrugged. "Merely to spar with your nightmare form. I know you have it. I wish to see if it's as strong as they say."

"I don't really need to whip it out since I've ascended. But I guess me kicking your ass oughta humble you." Burst snorted as he transformed. "Come at me. "Bro"." Burst activated Bahamut Aether as Blitz drew his own sword! "Gotta admit. You're backing up your talk so far." Burst quipped as he and Blitz locked blades! "But I was trained by Dad!" Burst hit Blitz in the stomach using his aether blade's handle, and followed it up with a slash across Blitz's chest! Blitz retaliated by imbuing his blade with an odd magic and slashing Burst's chest! Burst had no damage, but Blitz had scorch marks from where Burst had slashed at him! And Burst noticed. "I knew my bad feeling about you was right. But what's your game? Why attack me now?"

Blitz smirked. "Because now is the perfect time." He then looked to the moon. "Such a lovely moon isn't it? You're about to get a closer view of it."

"What are you-?!" Burst looked at his body in shock as he felt an all too familiar magic pulling him towards the moon. The magic of the Elements of Harmony. "Blitz-!" And in an instant Burst was whisked away from Equestria. Bound to the moon by chains of harmony magic.

A wicked smile crossed Blitz's face. "Onto stage 2." Blitz teleported into the Canterlot throne room, and immediately threw himself at the feet of the princesses! "YOUR HIGHNESSES! I bring grave news! Burst has fallen to darkness!" Celestia and Luna raised skeptical brows while Nightmare Moon eyed Blitz suspiciously. "I was out sparring with Burst. When suddenly he declared there could be only one son of Aether! He then transformed into a dark form, and tried to kill me! And in the end...I had no choice."

"What are you talking about." Moon asked coldly.

Blitz pointed to the moon. "Look at the moon." The princesses did so, and were horrified to see the shape of Burst along the moon's surface. Blitz was about to respond to them when Moon grabbed him by the neck!

"YOU LIAR!" Moon screamed! "Burst never fell to darkness! That was just his nightmare form! He was in complete control! But I know above all else that you're lying because of one thing! Burst NEVER cared about living up to his family legacy! And there's no way he'd ever try to kill you." Moon then released her hold on Blitz. "But I'm starting to think he's going to have a pretty good reason when he gets back."

Blitz scoffed. "If he gets back." He was then promptly slapped across the face by Celestia!

"He will return." Celestia said coldly. "And when he does? We'll be waiting for him." As Celestia and Moon left, Luna knelt down to Blitz's level, and caressed his cheek.

"Blitz...you didn't mean to banish Burst to the moon, yes?" Luna asked hopefully. "I could barely keep it together for all those years."

Blitz slowly stood up, and took Luna's hands in his. "Well if what Celestia and Nightmare Moon say is true, then it was simply an honest mistake I made. But I feared for our kingdom. I feared for you Luna. And I would never have forgiven myself if I let a possible threat do you harm."

"Blitz..." Luna said with a blush. "I've...rethought your proposition. Such dedication to my safety you have. It truly touches me. And maybe...we could be a bit more, together?"

Blitz slowly wrapped his arms around Luna. A devious smirk crept onto his lips. Just. As. Planned.

Author's Note

Yeah.....I REALLY wanna see Blitz die horribly now.

Episode 2: Solo Mission Part 2

Starlight looked down at the village. It had only been a day, and already the villagers were starting to reconsider giving up their cutie marks. However, her gaze held no hate or disgust. Starlight headed back to her bed, and sat down. Thoughts about her philosophy swirled around in her mind as she contemplated how sound her reasoning was. "Alright. So by removing cutie marks, I made a bunch of people equal. But they were all different to begin with. That something all of them had in common. And by making them all the same, I..." Starlight's eyes shrunk to the size of pinpricks. "I made them different from everyone else." She then immediately face-palmed. "AND I brainwashed them into accepting this. Sweet Celestia my logic fell apart by just applying a few seconds of thought to it! UGH!" Starlight then gripped her head in frustration! "I can't handle this right now. I'm going to bed."

Starlight threw herself onto her bad, and immediately fell into supreme unconsciousness. However, her dreams betrayed her tranquile, sleeping form. In her dream, Starlight awoke to find a huge collection of cutie marks. Including the marks of the princesses. "Wait. Does that mean..." Starlight looked out her window. Everyone had an equal symbol displayed for all to see. "Yes...YES! This is exactly what I wanted! Do you see this Shadow? Was your speech true? Everything is the same. No differences, no pain." And with that, Starlight set about enjoying her "perfect world." Everyone had the same slightly greyed skin and plastered smile. "This is all so perfect." Starlight said as she fell asleep once again. And once again, she woke up to the same sight before her. "Yet another perfect day." Starlight once again walked around her definition of a perfectly equal world. Three more days passed within her dream. But as time passed, something felt unnatural about the world she had been dreaming of. "Um, hello?" Starlight asked one of the citizens.

"Oh, hello Starlight!" The citizen greeted. "A wonderful day, isn't it?"

Starlight smiled nervously. "Uh...yes! Absolutely perfect. Say, how're things going?"

"Wonderful! Every day is perfect! It's just so wonderful everything being the same everyday." The citizen replied. Still holding the false smile on her face.

Starlight shook her head. "No...no! It isn't the same!" Starlight grabbed the citizen! "There's got to be something wrong! Something new! Something different! Life can't be....LIFE CAN'T BE STUCK LIKE THIS FOREVER! There's no change! No moving forward! WHAT'S THE POINT OF LIVING IN A DEAD WORLD LIKE THIS?!" Starlight's eyes shrunk to pin pricks as she came to a full realization. "I...I did this. I killed the world." Starlight then clutched her head. "No...NO! This isn't what I wanted! This wasn't the plan!"

"But don't you see Starlight?" Her own voice called out from all around her. "This IS what you wanted. Everyone is the same. Everything is unchanging. Yes. Death is the truest form of the equality you've sought."

Starlight raised her head, and her eyes widened with horror. The whole land was barren and dead. There was no one and nothing left. "If everyone's equal...nothing ever changes or grows. Life doesn't go on. We'll go extinct!"

"Precisely, Starlight Glimmer." A new voice called out from above.

Starlight picked her head up as tears were streaming from her eyes. "Wh-who's there?"

"Calm yourself Starlight. This is but a dream. One to show you how your dream is the world's nightmare." The voice replied as the wasteland started to crumble and give way to the dreamscape. And with that, Nightmare Moon appeared out of the last shadow of the wasteland that faded away.

Starlight immediately backpeddled. "AHHHH!" She screamed! "Y-You're just some old story! You've not real!"

"You don't get out much, do you?" Moon asked with a bemused smirk. "I mean you no harm. This dream was to merely teach you a lesson. A harsh one, but I'd say you've learned nonetheless. All the same, I implore you. Please. This madness can be easily halted now."

Starlight shook her head. "No..No! If you're the one showing me this, then it's all a lie! My way IS right! You're not better than me for trying to bring eternal night." Starlight would have sneered, but the death glare Moon was giving her made her shrink away.

"Very well Starlight." Moon said calmly. Still maintaining her calm tone while glaring right into Starlight's soul. "If you wish to continue being as blind to the truth in front of you as I once was, go ahead. But know this. This nightmare will never end for you. It will be waiting for you each time you close your eyes. Every time until you finally accept the truth that it displays before you." And with that, Moon left to patrol the rest of the dreamscape.

Starlight immediately woke up in a cold sweat. Scowling at the moon before returning to her bed. But just as Moon had said, Starlight's nightmare continued the second she closed her eyes.

The next morning
Shadow stretched as he exited his tent. "Here's hoping today looks up more than yesterday. But just in case..." Shadow mounted his Duelist Arm on his back. "Better safe than sorry." Shadow walked into the village, and noticed a few of the villagers gather around him. "So? What's your choice?"

"We did some thinking...and you were right." One of the villagers answered. "We know where all the marks are being kept and what maintains the enchantment is there too. We'll lead you." The entire village led Shadow to a cave, and pointed to a wooden staff. "The Staff of Sameness. It's what Starlight used to equalize us. But if you destroy it, then the spell will be broken."

Shadow nodded, and cut the staff to pieces with his spear! However, the enchantment was still in place and the cutie marks locked away behind the vault. "Maybe it wasn't the staff that's holding the enchantment." Shadow walked over to the vault, and smashed it! The glass shattering and releasing all the cutie marks! Each one flying back to its respective owner! All the villagers rejoiced at their marks being returned, and crowd surfed Shadow all the way to the town square! Twilight and the girls noticed the rejoicing villagers, and smiled. Congratulating Shadow as he was lowered to the ground.

"Way to go Shadow!" Twilight cheered! "You've definitely become these people's hero."

Shadow smiled, but soon rolled out of the way when a blast of magic was sent his way! Shadow spun around, and froze when he saw who was firing at him. "Starlight."

"You..." Starlight growled. "YOU RUINED EVERYTHING!" A powerful magic aura flared around her! "My perfect plan. The suffering I removed. The equality and harmony I ushered in. All destroyed in a single day."

The Main 6 summoned their Harmony Keepers, but Shadow motioned for them to stay back. "Starlight..." Shadow began as he walked forward. "You don't have to do this. There's no need to fight. All of these people were hurting. I just wanted to help them, and I have. But you're hurting too. Hurtingly badly. So much that you've made your problem everyone else's. And I can't help but see a scared, lonely girl when I look at you." Shadow then offered Starlight his hand. "Please. Let me help you too. You don't have to hurt anymore. You don't have to be alone. Just take my hand."

The magic aura around Starlight died down, and she lowered her head. "You really want to help me?" Starlight fired another blast of magic at Shadow! "THEN GIVE ME BACK WHAT YOU TOOK FROM ME!"

"I can't do that Starlight." Shadow said sadly. "Because what you had came from taking away what made others whole. You made your problems theirs. And I can't let you hurt them like that." Shadow raised his Duelist Arm. "Making your pain everyone else's only hurts you more. My brother tried something similar to what you've done. But it only hurt him! Please Starlight! I want to help you!" Starlight's only response was another blast of magic! "Sorry about this!" Shadow flew at Starlight with full force, and flew past the village! Dropping Starlight onto the snow below before landing and getting into a defensive stance. "I don't want to fight you. But I couldn't let you hurt anyone back there." Starlight crawled out of the snow, and Shadow once again extended his hand to her. "Starlight. You're not going to stop hurting if you can't stop for a minute and realize you're wrong. My hand's always here." Starlight slowly reached for Shadow's hand, and quickly pulled back and ran off! "Damn it." Shadow silently cursed to himself as he watched her run away. "But I guess that's what I get. I can't save someone who doesn't want to be saved." Shadow flew back to the village. However, the sad look on his face completely betrayed the sense of joy the villagers had.

"Where's Starlight Glimmer?" Twilight asked.

Shadow sighed. "She ran away. I tried to help her. But she didn't want it. And now? I've probably made things worse. Let's just head home. After you say your goodbyes to the people here." Shadow packed up his things, and waited for the Main 6 by the village's gate. Sure enough, they were on their way home. But when they returned to Ponyville, Shadow saw his brothers and Burst Stream waiting for him. And upon being debriefed by the Main 6 of what had happened, Burst walked over to Shadow. "So? Is this the part where I get suspended from the team?"

"Shadow. Your brothers told me about your little solo mission. One they didn't go to me for approval." Burst stated before smiling. "But you did good. And above all, you got your moment. I know you haven't felt like you've done all that much or proven yourself. But you wouldn't have been chosen as an element if there wasn't something special inside you. And you proved that today. But next time? Just talk to me or Inferno if you want to go it alone."

Shadow sighed. "You sure I did good? Because I feel like I failed the person who needed me the most."

"Shadow..." Burst said as he put a hand on Shadow's shoulder. "Some people are just harder to save than others. Maybe this Starlight Glimmer needs your help. But she just doesn't want it. Yet. Maybe all you need to do now is wait."

Shadow slowly lifted his head. "Thanks Burst." He then walked away. "But that doesn't make it hurt any less..."

Episode 5: Dancing in the Moonlight

Luna stood over the balcony as she admired the beauty of her night. She then directed her watchful gaze across the city of Canterlot below. Though she now had more time to spend with her sister Celestia, she still favored being the night owl of the two. "Now seems like as good a time as any." Luna spread her wings, and took a fly over the city. She smiled whenever she saw stargazers looking through their telescopes, or young revellers celebrating at night clubs. But her favorite sight was the lovers who spent their time gazing at her masterpiece that was the night sky. Night truly was made for lovers. Luna thought with a fond smile as she flew. However, as she continued her flight, something odd caught her eye.

A ball of light soon shot up right in front of her! Luna stopped herself, and hovered in front of it. "By my night. Where did this thing come from?" Luna directed her gaze below her, and saw a lone figure standing with a sword drawn. A figure she recognized. As soon as Luna landed, the figure sheathed their blade. Blitz Surge was revealed as he stepped into the moonlight. "YOU!"

"I apologize." Blitz said with a small bow. "But I couldn't think of any more effective ways to get your attention."

Luna pouted. "You could have called our-er, my name." She then crossed her arms. "But that's not what you've done to upset me."

"And pray tell, how have I offended you?" Blitz asked with a smirk.

Luna frowned. "You stole a kiss from royalty. While that may not be an actual crime, I am nontheless insulted by such a brazen act!"

"If that's the case, how might I compensate you?" Blitz asked. "I have wronged you. So how might I give you satisfaction? I've no interest in a duel." Blitz then looked to the sky. "But it is such a lovely night. As usual. Perhaps you would prefer some company to enjoy it?"

Luna blushed! "Flattery and honeyed words will get you nowhere!"

"How about actions?" Blits bowed slightly, and offered his hand. "Might I try persuading you now?"

Luna slowly reached her hand out, and the two began dancing. "You certainly are more well-mannered than our previous encounter led me to believe."

"You're a lady are you not?" Blitz asked. "I'll treat you as such Your Highness."

Luna's blush deepened. "Such chivalry is rare in this day and age."

"Let's just say my father was a bit of a old fashioned man." Blitz said with a chuckle.

Luna giggled. "Might I have the name of the gentleman who holds fondness for the night?"

"Blitz Surge."

Luna smirked. "Fitting considering how reckless you were in stealing a kiss."

"One could still say I'm being reckelss right now in stealing a dance." Blitz said with a smirk. "But I'd say the risk is worth it." The two ceased their dancing not a few minutes later. "It was my honor to spend the night with you." Blitz then bowed.

Luna smiled. "Ours as well." Luna curtsied. "I bid you good night Blitz Surge."

Blitz then kissed Luna's hand before leaving. "Sweet dreams. Princess Luna." I look forward to our next dance.

Luna flew back to the castle, and threw herself onto her bed. A blissful smile plastered across her face. "BEST. NIGHT. EVER!"

Episode 6: Regret

Shadow wasn't having a good morning. It had only been a short while since his first solo mission, and he'd still felt like the biggest failure on the face of Equestria. He'd broken the villagers out of their brainwashing. Picked apart a fatal cult mentality that could have doomed the whole word. So why did he feel like he'd accomplished nothing. All because of one girl. Shadow thought sadly as he flew to his usual thinking spot. A nearby cliff. Shadow sat down and looked at the horizon before him, and he sighed.

Out of all the people in that village who were hurting, she carried the most pain. Shadow thought. And now she's still hurting. Some part of me can still feel her. He then placed a hand over his heart, and closed his eyes. It's my fault. It's all my fault... Shadow's eyes started to tear up. I wanted to help her. To help ease her pain. And what did I do!? Shadow punched the ground! I SCREWED UP AND MADE THINGS WORSE! Tears began to fall from Shadow's eyes. All I want is to see her again! To tell her everything's going to be alright! More than anything...I just want her to know someone loves her. That she doesn't have to hurt anymore. Shadow let out a long sigh as he flew back home, and saw his brother Ace sitting on the couch with Sonata.

Ace noticed his brother's mood. "Shadow? What's wrong?" Ace got up with Sonata in tow. "Hey, you can tell me. Whatever's wrong, we can talk about it."

"It's...nothing important." Shadow said as he shook his head. "Just...reflecting on something that could've been."

Ace frowned. "It's about that girl who was a cult leader. Isn't it?"

"...Yeah." Shadow said with a sigh. "I tried showing her some compassion. I wanted to save her." Shadow then clenched his fist. "I've never felt so useless..."

Ace put a hand on Shadow's shoulder. "Hey. Listen. Ice went through something similar to this. But he only snapped out of it because he was eventually willing to admit he was wrong and confront his mistakes. Shadow, you can't blame yourself for Starlight not wanting to learn. For refusing to admit her error. Could you really live with yourself by forcing your views on her? Would that be any better than the same mistakes she made?"

"...No." Shadow said in a defeated tone. "But that doesn't make the fact I could've done more. That I should've done more." Shadow retreated to his room, and closed his eyes. I don't know where you are Starlight. But I know I'll find you. Someday. I just hope you actually want to listen.

Episode 16: How far we've come

Burst was lying down in one of the fields outside town. Simply resting as he watched the clouds go by. "I never thought I'd find myself here." Burst let out a sigh as he reflected on his life so far. "To think it all started with that one promise." Burst smiled as his memories started to play out before him. The promise he made to give the Legend of Nightmare Moon a happy ending. Him meeting the other Elements of Heroism and becoming friends with them. Dating Princess Celestia. Not to mention him stealing Nightmare Moon's heart as well as ascending into an avatar. So much of this had taken place a couple years ago, but Burst remembered it all like it was only yesterday.

"I guess time flies when you're having fun." Burst chuckled to himself. "And me and the guys have had plenty of that." All the sleepovers, training sessions, movie marathons, and gaming fests he and his friends had thrown. "Well my life's not been quiet since I moved here. But I wouldn't have it any other way." Burst closed his eyes as he reflected on each of his friends who had ascended so far. "Something tells me we're gonna be together forever."

Moon spotted Burst, and flew over to him. "Giving the audience a clip show are we?"

"C'mon Moon! This isn't some sort of anime." Burst said with a chuckle. "Though there ARE plenty of references. Hmm. I wonder if the audience caught them all? Eh. They're probably more confused while I'm breaking the fourth wall." Burst then turned to the screen and waved! "Thanks for reading everyone! We couldn't have made it this far without you! ROCK THE DRAGON!"

Author's Note

To all my readers: Thank you. We've come a long way since I got my start on this site. And it's been a crazy ride. And I couldn't have made it this far without all of you! THANK YOU!

Episode 17: The One That Got Away

Shadow groaned as he woke up. True, nightmares about Starlight no longer plagued him while he slept. However, the pleasant dreams he'd have of Starlight only made things worse. Namely because he knew that once he woke up they would end. Both Ace and Ice grew quickly concerned as they easily saw through the empty smile Shadow put on every morning.

"Shadow. We need to talk. Now." Ice said sternly as he motioned for Shadow to sit down. "Look. We know some part of you is still pretty broken up about Starlight Glimmer." Ice then put a hand on Shadow's shoulder. "But there's gotta be more to it than you just not convincing her she's wrong."

Ace nodded. "Ice is right Shadow. There's something deeper to it than you're letting on. We promise not to think any differently of you because of why. But please. Tell us. We're your family. That means we're here for you when you need us. And I'd say that's right now."

Shadow sighed. "Guess there's no getting around it is there?" Shadow took a deep breath. "You're right. It's also got to do with my dreams about Starlight. They're...well...."

"Yeah?" Ace and Ice said in unison.

"MY DREAMS HAVE BEEN ABOUT US TOGETHER!" Shadow blurted out! Panting heavily as the pressure. "There! I said it! Happy now?!"

Both Ace and Ice blinked. "So what?"

"....Excuse me?" Shadow asked with a puzzled look on his face. "Why are you two so chill about me dating a former enemy?!"

Ace chuckled. "Shadow. My girlfriend, Sonata, tried to take over a whole high school just to get energy. Nightmare Moon tried to bring eternal night before she and Burst got together. You falling for Starlight is probably par for the course."

"I-I'm not falling for her!" Shadow stammered as his face turned dark red!

"Heh! Suuure you are Shadow. We believe you." Ice said with a smirk.

Shadow groaned and stormed out! "Great. One chance encounter, and my brothers think I've got a crush on a villain." Shadow then blushed. "No way I'm falling for her adora-AGH!" Shadow slapped himself. "It's like some invisible force is making me think of her!"

Back in the Crystal Empire, Cadence hummed to herself as she wrote down her latest ship. "Shadow...x....Starlight. Done!"

Episode 23: Consolation

Narico frowned as he noticed Abyss's fake smile. Being a changeling, Narico could sense emotions which made him a bit of an empath. And right now? He was sensing a lot of inner sorrow that Abyss was hiding from him. "Abyss? Please. Tell me what's wrong."

"Hm?" Abyss snapped out of her trance. "Oh...nothing Narico! I'm fine. Really."

Narico shook his head. "I can sense your emotions Abyss. Don't bother trying to cover them up." He then put a hand on Abyss's shoulder. "Please. Tell me what's troubling you. I'd feel like an awful boyfriend if you couldn't talk to me about your worries. And I'm more than willing to listen."

"No sense trying to keep it hidden." Abyss said with a heavy sigh. "It's about my son. You recall seeing him, yes?"

Narico nodded. "Yeah. He was pretty intense. Especially with Burst during that fight. It's a wonder that they haven't tried to kill each other yet! What's his deal?"

"I fear that I'm responsible for his behavior." Abyss said sadly as she looked at the floor. "Recently I've had a talk with Burst's mother. You see, Blitz was not born through natural means. Rather, I infused my magic with a sample of Aether's essence. That's how Blitz was born. He'd always ask about Aether, and I obliged him. If he could not be raised by his father, he at least deserved to know about him. I told him of Aether's feats and how he was hailed as a great hero. And on that day..." Abyss choked on the memory a bit. "I think that's when my child died. Ever since then he dedicated himself to training and living up to Aether's legacy. And I'm the one who enabled him. Simply because I wished for him to be happy. And now? With how reckless he's been? Thinking he's got the right to pass judgement on those that have done wrong even when they're trying to make up for their deeds? All so he can be a 'hero'?" Abyss then looked Narico in the eyes. Tears starting to form. "Tell me Narico. And be honest with me. Have I failed as a parent?"

Narico took a deep breath. "I won't lie. I really had nobody to fully raise me. I was just a kid when I ran away from the hive. All I've gotta go on is the time I spent with Fang before I grew up." He then took hold of Abyss's hand. "But...I can say this. You tried to do the best you could. Every parent wants their children to be happy. Blitz is your world. And I can understand you wanting him to be happy. But people get caught up in their own worlds. And I guess no one can really fault you for that. Even with how much responsibility you bear for Blitz turning out."

"Thank you." Abyss said as she restd her head against Narico's chest. "I needed that."

Narico smiled. "That's what I'm here for. Lifting you up when you're down."