Jack Spicer's Quest to Conquer Equestria

Chapters

Chapter 2 - Scouting the Village
Chapter 3 - Three Little Minions
Chapter 4 - A Princess Defeated, A Dragon Taken
Chapter 5 - "Get to Work, Dragon!"
Chapter 6 - Wuya's Return
Chapter 7 - Jack Has Got His Scrap
Chapter 8 - Scootaloo the Genius
Chapter 10 - Raiding Twilight's Castle
Chapter 11 - Xiaolin Showdown! Battle of the Jacks!
Chapter 12 - The Power of the Alicorn Amulet
Chapter 13 - Wuya Meets the Team
Chapter 14 - The Plan to Reclaim the Reversing Mirror
Chapter 15 - DJ on Deck
Chapter 16 - The Mirror Retreived
Chapter 17 - A Short Interlude
Chapter 18 - A Meeting with Scoots
Chapter 19 - Xiaolin Showdown! Flight to the Finish!
Chapter 20 - Wuya's Proposition
Chapter 21 - The Truth
Chapter 22 - Breaking into Twilight's Castle... Again
Chapter 23 - The Plan to Defeat Wuya
Chapter 24 - A Heart to Heart with Twilight
Chapter 25 - Final Preperations
Chapter 26 - Forgiveness
Chapter 27 - Wuya Vs. Twilight
Chapter 29 - Jack's Final Revelation
Chapter 30 - The Fate of All Worlds
Chapter 31 - Xialoin Showdown! The Final Battle!
Epilogue
Chapter 1 - Enter Boy Genius
Chapter 9 - Jack's New Army, Spike Spills the Beans
Chapter 28 - Raiding Wuya's Castle

Chapter 2 - Scouting the Village

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Chapter 3 - Three Little Minions

"Sweetie Belle, ah ya sure this is a good idea? Maybe ah should tell my sister? or maybe even Fluttershy"

"Come on Applebloom, he doesn't look that dangerous! Besides, if we didn't drag him to the barn, he would have drowned in that....I think that was barf"

"Actually Sweetie Belle, we could have probably dragged him just a few feet. Do you really think this can help us get our cutie marks?"

"We won't know unless we try!"

"Well I reckon we still oughtta be careful, what if he wakes up and turns out to be one of them cranky types?"

"cranky? I dunno, I could have sworn I heard him cry in his sleep for his mom. Maybe the poor guy's lost?"

"Well that's what we're here for then Scootaloo! If he is lost, then we can help him find his mom! We can be Cutie Mark RESCUERS!"

"YEAH!"

Jack mumbled, he could hear three childlike voices discussing something in close proximity. he groggily mumbles the moment they yell out in future triumph. "...ghm...uh...what's going on?"

"He's waking up!"

"Quick girls, ya know what to do! Smiles! And be all friendly! We don't wanna spook the poor fella!"

"Right"

"Got it!"

"Wuya, is that you? why do you sound so cute..and snuggly?...ugh..my head.." Jack whined as he slowly sat up. Rubbing his forehead.

At first things were a blur, as his eyes adjusted. He could see bundles of hay, barrels of apples....and...three small horses...one with wings, one with a horn, and one without any. standing side by side and giving him a painfully cheery smile.

"...uhhh..."

his head started to clear as he began to remember. He was doing reconnaissance, learning about the "demon horses" that just turned out to be gifted townspeople that JUST happened to be horses. Then he got hungry...and things...just happened.

The white one looked towards the one with the bow "Do you think he can really talk?"

the one with the bow shrugged.

Jack finally snapped back to reality, immediately feeling insulted by the very question "Of course I can talk! what do you take me for, an idiot!?"

The three jump back, startled by Jack's sudden outburst. the one with the bow frowns, already thinking this might have been a bad idea "We didn't mean anything by it! Honest. It's just, we never seen anypony like you before."

"Well of course not, not many have the honor or the guts to stand up to me, Jack Spi....am I really talking to a bunch of ponies right now?" Jack didn't know how to feel, usually something like this was done using the Tongue of Taiping.

the one with wings bravely steps up and stands in front of her two friends "M-maybe we got off on the wrong hoof, I'm Scootaloo...and these are my friends Applebloom and Sweetie Belle..." she then started think of a few words that might calm Jack down "We sort of saved your life...you were drowning in some yellow stuff."

"Drowning?..." Jack was confused "I was drowning?...huh...maybe that's why I conked out...I don't exactly remember. I just remember rolling around in that ba.." suddenly his stomach growled "mmmnnnngh....great..." he held his stomach and curled up a bit "I'm hungry..."

Sweetie Belle sees an opportunity to befriend their new found acquaintance. "You're hungry? We can fix that for you if you'd like. AppleBloom, you have apples right?"

Applebloom looks at Sweetie Belle, looking into her eyes with unhumored disbelief "yer kiddin me right?"

"oh yeah...ummm....can we get some for umm...what was your name again Mister?" Sweetie Belle inquired

"ohh..umm..It's Jack Spicer!..umm" Jack started to consider their friendly nature and started to come up with the best lie he ever told "Good Boy Genius!...yeah thats right"

"That's a pretty cool name, but what do you mean by genius?" Scootaloo said

Jack smiled....no one had ever thought his name was cool before. "oh well um, I make robots and machines. Check this out!" Jack turned on his helipack, and began to hover a few feet off the ground. "Like my own helipack! Bet you wish you had one of these, huh?"

Scootaloo just looked on in awe, She knew Rainbow Dash's pet Tank had a helipack. But the one she saw before her looked more advanced, and better for actual flight. "wooooooooah!"

Sweetie Belle was pretty awestruck as well, she didn't realize Jack was actually an advanced creature "You made that all by yourself?"

AppleBloom had left at that point to get food for Jack

Jack landed, and took a bow. For the first time, he was actually being looked up to without the intention of being betrayed or the inkling it was being faked. "Yup, I can make all sorts of things. Just not right now. Sort of low on parts at the moment. haha"

Scootaloo stepped closer to him "Parts?"

Jack walked up to Scootaloo and started to pat her head "Aren't you adorable! not knowing you need parts to make machines."

Scootaloo then stepped back, feeling uncomfortable from being pet "yeah..I knew that"

Sweetie Belle tilted her head, curious about the fact that he seem rather talented in mechanics "So you make machines?" then she started to concoct a plan of her own. Maybe something better than finding his mother, since he didn't seem too worried about it now. "Could you teach us how to make some of our own?"

"Woah hold on there, you can't LEARN to make machines. You gotta be as smart as I am to be able to do something like that."

"pah, how hard can it be? It's just like putting together a scooter right? I mean, we're already good at gathering all sorts of parts. We'd just need help putting them together." Scootaloo seemed confident that it couldn't be that hard...not at least without some proper training.

Jack started to consider those words, he didn't know where to get any parts to make new jackbots. But perhaps these three could do the scrounging work for him. "I think I could help you guys out with that."

they both looked at each other, suddenly feeling hopeful from just those words "Really?"
"yeah all....mnnghh" Jack held his stomach, it was grumbling "...wait hold on.....empty stomach...ugh."

AppleBloom pops back in, balancing a plate of apples on her head "Was that a hungry stomach ah just heard?" she giggled.

"GIMME THAT!" Jack called out as he dove at the plate and started devouring the apples "NOMNOMNOMNOMNONMNBNFBF"

The three fillies looked at each other as they became both a little fearful and weirded out from Jack's sudden reaction and lack of etiquette.

AppleBloom looked at Sweetie Belle, concern in her eyes. "Sweetie Belle, I dunno. Somethin about this guy just don't feel right"

Sweetie Belle calmed down, and smiled towards Applebloom "So he's a little weird. That's ok, because we just might be able to get our cutie marks!"

Apple Bloom was confused "yeah, by taking him back to his mom right?"

Sweetie Belle shook her head "Even better! He's gonna teach us to make our own machines!"

AppleBloom just looked at gluttonous human before her "are ya sure about that?"

Scootaloo frowned "yeah, I'm starting to have doubts too"

Jack immediately stopped the moment he heard them losing hope in him, he turned around to look at them. His face full of small apple chunks and his mouth still full. He takes a deep swallow and gives them an angry look "Hey! Don't think I'm incapable just because I was trying to stuff my face. A guy has to eat you know. I could have died!" He stood up, feeling rejuvenated from the food, he started to brush off his sleeves as his gaze fell back upon them "I can help you girls if you help me. I just need you to gather all the parts and scrap you can and bring them here. And I can teach you everything you need to know about making machines"

the three of them looked at eachother and discussed, that seemed easy enough. With the three of them together, they could find plenty of stuff to bring back.

Applebloom nodded "sounds pretty easy mister Jack. But we can trust ya right? are you really gonna teach us to make machines?"

Jack nodded, his smile rather devious "Yeah, of course! I'm the most honest guy you'll ever meet!"

Applebloom smiled "Now that's somethin I like to hear, my sister is pretty honest too so it sounds like ya'll would get along"

Jack immediately realized maybe that wouldn't be a good idea. He didn't need too many of these ponies knowing of his existence. "Ehhh....that doesn't sound like a good idea right now."

"huh? Ahm sure she souldn't mind meeting ya Jack, besides. She might be able to help ya out. It's the least ah can do for your help" Applebloom was rather enthusiastic about this.

"no no, trust me. I'm good for now.....Actually, it's probably good if you keep me a secret." Jack tried to convince them

Scootaloo cocked an eyebrow "why? that seems pretty suspicious"

Jack started to sweat bullets, trying to come up with a good lie "W-well. There's this scary lady after me. She wants to destroy me because I uh.....stopped her from conquering the world!"

"Woooah, you saved the world?" they all three were amazed by this.

Jack smirked "Well, yeah. See there was this crazy witch lady named Wuya who nearly conquered the world. But I, being the good boy genius I am, couldn't let it happen. Especially because she was bossy,mean, and dumb. So I made a special puzzle box that could seal her.! You may have not heard of it. I stopped her pretty quickly. Didn't even need any Shen Gong Wu"

"Shen Gong Wu, what's that?" Scootaloo asked

Jack became more smug as this went on, he pulled out his monkey staff and activated it for a moment just to show them it's power. Then changed back. The three were awestruck, and now completely believed him.

"So this Wuya lady managed to get out? And you're fighting her alone?" Sweetie Belle seemed concerned by this. If this was getting out of hand. She was considering asking her sister about it to rally up Twilight and her friends to stop Wuya themselves.

"Yeah, but it's no biggie. Especially when I get the parts I need. You girls are willing to help right? I mean, you three can be my three special minion...er...helpers!" Jack chuckled nervously, he couldn't believe he managed to get this far.

all three saluted

"If it means protecting Equestria from evil, then we'd be happy to help ya out Mister Jack!. Besides, we will definitely get our cutie marks if we help save it!" Applebloom said with utmost pride

"Yeah yeah, what's with that cutie mark stuff anyway?" Jack was confused by it, they seemed to really want to acquire something that sounded rather girlie

Although the three were surprised by Jack's ignorance of Cutie Marks, they took the time to explain it to him. They figured he was from some far away land. Maybe a place where he hadn't actually met any ponies before.

Jack was in tears "S-so...what you're saying is. Even fate has told you “No Way!” on what you are good at and you get mocked for it?" That sounded awful to him. Considering all the crap he's been through, he at least knew he was good at making robots.

"uh huh...but that's ok now because we're gonna help you Jack! You're a hero!" Scootaloo said, with blind ignorance.

Jack, turned around to wipe away his tears. The plight of these fillies touched his weasely little heart. He made a silent vow that once he conquered Equestria, then moved on to conquer Earth, That'd he'd make these three fillies his commanding Generals of his world ravaging armies. It was the least he could do.He'd even give them all better names, Jack Jr. Little Jack. And Colby Jack.

He took a deep breath "Ok, well. I gotta get going for now...got important...hero stuff to do." He couldn't face them, he didn't want them to see his tears.

The three nodded

"And so do we! Come on girls, we gotta get as much stuff as possible to help mister Jack out! Equestria is depending on us!" AppleBloom said in earnest

They both nodded, and all three left the barn. giving Jack a farewell.

Jack took a moment to calm down and smirked. "That was soooo easy,hahahaha! Finally, things are looking up! And even better! I have the cutest minions ever that don't actually want to rip my guts out! hehehehe!"

He looks out the barn to make sure no one is around, and takes off back to the roof of the castle as stealthily as possible. "And that's why I am the best. They aren't even demon horses, just silly horse people....that...awww...you can't hate them even if you tried. I almost feel bad for eventually enslaving them...oh well. I bet Wuya couldn't find anything useful on her end. HAHAHA, boy is she gonna be sorry she insulted me when she finds out I'm already this close to rebuilding my army. "Oh Jack, I'm sorry for ever doubting you! I'm such a fool, I couldn't find anything out because I'm just a stupid ghost head with poop for brains, can you ever forgive me? I'm soooo dumb" HAHAHAHHAAHA, That's right baby. Jack is back in Bus-OOMPH"

Jack, in his infinite arrogance, smacks into a tree.Hard enough to make him a little dizzy. slowing his progress "yup...That's right...Jack is the best evil boy spaghetti there ever was..hahaha..theres a lot of stars out today..ha" He said as he continued further in a daze

Moments later. At the Castle Roof. Jack had finally managed to get back. Wuya was there, impatiently waiting for him.

Jack gently landed and pushed the button on his helipack. putting away the propellers "I'm back Wuya. How's my favorite ghost lady huh?"

Wuya noticed a cheeriness in Jack's voice. She surmised he must have done something useful instead of getting his butt handed to him. "Jaaaacckk, you seem in better spirits."

"You know it Wuya!" Jack smiled and posed at her "This evil schemer has managed to pull off the first steps to world domination"

Wuya smiled, this already sounded good "Well Jack, it's nice to know you are finally pulling your weight. So tell me, what have you managed to learn? Managed to do?"

"ah ah, first I want to know what you got Wuya.I don't want to excite you and make you forget whatever you managed to figure out." Jack said as he picked his nose, he thought he got some sort of bug in there during his flight.

Wuya snickered "Well Jack, you're actually going to love this. As it turns out, this world actually is brimming with magic. I had a look through all the texts this castle holds and spied upon it's occupants. The books were very interesting. There are magical artifacts here that not only rival the Shen Gong Wu, but some are in fact much greater in power. Infact, below us at this moment is a princess who's magical abilities are extraordinary.....as is her ability to nearly make me vomit with how "good" and "friendly" she actually is. And from the texts I read, creatures of profound evil exist that are even more powerful than those ingrates Chase Young and Hannibal Bean combined. I believe our first move should be acquiring some of this world's Shen Gong Wu ."

Jack was confused "I thought you couldn't sense any Shen Gong Wu here? In fact, I thought none existed"

"Oh but they do exist! They just don't go by that name it seems. And I may not be able to sense them, But there is a dragon in this castle that should be able to. My only guess is that I'm not attuned to this world's Shen Gong Wu. So it'd only be sensible to capture a being who would be attuned to it. And then force it to work for us! mehehehe, we've only been here a week and finally things are falling into place. Now...tell me, What did you find out! Tell me, tell me!"

Wuya was excited. For whatever she managed to find out within the castle. She was sure Jack managed to find out equally important things scouting around the village.

Jack smirked and pointed to himself "Well, I managed to find out that the horses here are in fact not "Demon Horses". AAANNNNDDD, we'll soon have an army of Jackbots once I get the scrap I need from our new allies Applebroom, Sweaty Balls, and Scootyscoot. Pretty impressive huh?"

Wuya was a little skeptical but she was impressed "Impressive Jack, I didn't figure you would be able to make allies so quickly....especially with your special needs problems."

Jack smiled "Well, I do have special needs. Machinery can't build themselves you know."

Wuya was still skeptical, she had to know who these allies were "So tell me Jack, are these new allies of yours powerful? Can they render a filthy mortal to shreds in seconds? oohohohh.....just thinking about it makes me all....tingly"

Jack shrugged "I dunno, I haven't been able to figure out how powerful baby horses are in this world. Maybe..I guess they could do that?"

Wuya nodded "Well that doesn't sound so bad as long as their is a possibility they can ri......wait a second....did you say....baby horse?"

Jack shook his head "No Wuya, I said baby horses. As in multiple. Three actually. Can't you pay atten-"

Suddenly Wuya flew up to his face, furious "I'VE BEEN SKULKING AROUND. LEARNING ABOUT THIS NEW, RATHER INTRICATE WORLD, PLOTTING AND SCHEMING ANYWAY I CAN TO CONQUER IT AND YOU'RE GOING TO TELL ME YOU'VE BEEN PLAYING WITH HORSES ALL DAY!?"

Jack gulped"A-actually, I think I was unconscious for most of the day"

Wuya finally exploded, literally "JJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK!"

she popped, her form spreading out and exploding into floating chunks that spread into the air. Jack had never seen anything like it. "....does that mean you're mad at me?"

no answer

"Wuya?...Wuya?" Jack looked around, did...did she really explode? Is she gone just like that? Because of the mention of horses? "Wuuuya? you there...come on, you can't leave me alone! I don't have any place to sleep! It gets cold and lonely you know! Wuya!!!"

Still no answer

Jack at first entered into a small panic. Normally, this would be fine for him. But he was stuck in a world he knew nothing about. It actually internally scared him.

He spent a few more hours curled up in a ball, sucking his thumb.

Then he looked at his drenched hand, filled with his slobber. And realized how pathetic he was being.

He stood up, and looked into the horizon "Wait...Why am I scared? I'm Jack Spicer! and now I'm my own man! Besides, I already have an army of Jackbots on the way. It's not like I can't take over this pathetic little town and sleep in this castle. Pfft, what am I so worried about? And the best part is, Wuya is gone! So I don't even have to hear all her nagging and complaining. I've got nothing to worry about!"

Suddenly, a hatch on the roof opens. Surprising Jack and making him scream like a little girl, making him slip off the roof.

a purple dragon peers out from the hatch and looks around "Huh..."
He looks down "There's nothing up here Twilight! I told you you were probably just hearing things!"

Chapter 4 - A Princess Defeated, A Dragon Taken

Jack tumbled down from the tall Castle, screaming for his life "AHHHH, THIS IS IT! I'M DONE FOR!! I DON'T WANT TO DIE! IF ONLY I HAD MY HELIPACK!! AHHH!!"

Suddenly, a very small Jack appeared before Jack and stared at him angrily. Of course, it was an illusion produced by a panicked mind. "HEY JACK! WHAT ARE YOU DOING!?"

Jack just stared at it, confused and frightened "BWWWAAA, WHO ARE YOU?!"

"I'm you, geez, can't you tell by my dashing good looks?" The mini-jack made a pose as it fell along with him

"oh right...I am pretty good looking...oh and WERE FALLING TOO OUR DOOM! WAAAHHH!" Cried Jack as he flapped his arms

The mini jack slapped his larger self. "Get a hold of yourself Jack, you're so scared that you're hallucinating a calmer smaller version of yourself to get it through your Intelligent but thick skull that you do have your helipack! SO USE IT!"

Jack stopped screaming and realized it himself "Oh...right...I knew that....but wait...who's that then?" he points to an even smaller Jack.

The mini-mini Jack just floats in "I represent the mommy issues of Jack Spicer, it's a pretty big problem"

The Mini Jack walks up to the Mini-Mini Jack and shoves him away "Will you beat it! There's more important things going on right now! Like living!"

the Mini-Mini jack pushes Mini Jack's hands away. "Living? what? What's going on?"

Mini Jack pointed down, the moment Mini-Mini jack looked down. He started to panic "MOMMY! MOMMY! HELP WE'RE GONNA SHATTER INTO PIECES! SOMEONE DO SOMETHING!"

Jack just sighed at this point "I really need to get my mind in order. This is too much...even for me"

he flicks his figments away and activates his Helipack just before hitting the ground. Though, it wasn’t quite in time. Causing him to crash into the ground. Leaving a small crater in the shape of his body.

“Hahaha! J-just in time!” He snickered in a dizzy state as he stood up and wobbled about.

After some time. He recovered from his crashed state and took to hiding in a nearby bush to figure out the next steps to his master plan.
"Great Jack, Wuya is gone..I think..And you're on your own. Now you know you can make Jackbots at one point but those ponies are definitely gonna take awhile. She did say something about Shen Gong Wu though...."
he pokes his head out and looks at the castle "and she said some dragon is in there that can point me directly to them...but how to get in there....how to get in...hmmmm..Oh wait! HAHAHA!"

Jack pulled out a small spider like robot from inside his black coat and put it down. "I forgot I made one of these, hahaha. Sometimes I forget how much of a genius I really am...ahrm..SPYBOT! INFILTRATE THAT CASTLE AND PERFORM SOME RECONNAISSANCE , GET ME THE DIRT ON THAT PLACE. THE GUARDS, THE DEFENSES, EVERYTHING. I'M IN A HURRY!"

The small spider spy rushes towards the Castle, and crawls along the walls in search of a stealthy entrance.

Jack sits down in the bushes and crosses his legs as he sits. "And now we wait...oh man, why didn't I think of this before!" he started to rub his hands together evilly "This is gonna be great...Oh man, are those dweebs gonna get it when I get back" He suddenly stands up and points in the air "YOU HEAR THAT OMI! WHEN I GET BACK! I'M GONNA BEAT YOU SO BAD YOU'LL ACTUALLY START TO MAKE PROPER WORDPLAY!"

Jack then realized how loud he was being and covered his mouth and lowered himself back into the bushes. He tried not to get too excited.

Day turned into night

Jack was asleep in the bushes when his spider spy bot came back to him. Noticed he was asleep, and poked his hand with it's needle like leg. Making him wake up with a high pitched shrill. "OW! WHO WHAT WHO?! WHO...oh...Hey you're back....DON'T DO THAT AGAIN! YOU HEAR ME! I'M YOUR MASTER, NOT A PIN CUSHION!"

The robot didn't seem to care what he had to say. It just ignored him and started projecting small images in the air of the castle interior and recordings of it's only 2 occupants at the time.

Jack sighed "..no respect. You didn't even pay attention did you?"

The spybot says nothing...it can't say anything.

Jack bent down and pointed at it angrily "Don't you have anything to say for yourself?"

the spybot says nothing

"......You can't talk..can you?" Jack sighed, he forgot it couldn't. But just being woken up like that can make one forget...and then seem foolish. It was a good thing Wuya blew up. Jack didn't even care that she did at this point. She couldn't sense Shen Gong Wu, making her useless. And all she was doing was insulting him. Something he didn't need. "Ok....ok..let's see what you got"

He started observing the screens and recording image holograms the spybot was producing from it’s single glass eye. The castle seemed devoid of life besides the dragon and the pretty purple princess. The dragon seemed like a punk, but probably nothing he couldn't handle. He started sifting through his coat for anything he may have forgotten. "Let's see...House keys? nope. Rubber Ducky? awww..so cute...but no..Monkey Staff? Already used it...two tickets to Nurturing Koalas? aww....I really wanted Wuya to see that with me...oh well, she's gone now..HAHA...anyway...Reversing Mirror? nope, left that ba.....WHAT! HEY! I STILL HAVE THIS! OH WOW..hahaha, oh wow, would Wuya flip her top if she could see me now. hrmmm...I could use this. And let's see...Snare gun? ehh..not as good as the Tangle Web Comb. But good in a pinch. I just need a place to convince that dragon to work for me after I captured him....Looks Like I have no choice. Gotta get back to that abandoned castle and try to make at least one more Knightbot to pal around with me before making more Jackbots. Ok...Jack, you got this. Go team Jack!"

He then looked at the castle "Now...what would be the best way to approach this....ahh yeah!"

He holds up the Monkey Staff and cries it's name. Transforming into his monkey self

"It's a giant tree Castle, and what better way to climb a tree than being a monkey. Oh Jack, you're so clever."

With that, he made his way into climbing to one of the upper windows of the tree like castle to sneak his way. at this point the occupants have to be asleep by now. Making capturing the small dragon an easy feat.

Jack started zipping and sneaking around the Castle. Noting how girly it looked. Like a child's playset kind of of girly.
He started to stealthily move from room to room, whispering "here dragon dragon dragon, come to uncle Jack...where is he? at this rate. I'll never find him"

During Jack's search, he had to change back to his normal form to keep the monkey staff from fully messing with his mind. He wasn't as agile in this form. and some of his steps made small squeaks. But he hadn't been found out yet.
Suddenly, he can hear voices coming from behind a door. "aha! that's must be him."

Jack slowly opened the door enough to see past it. He took a peek, and could see the princess of the land conversing with the dragon about something. He seemed to be jotting things down as she read from a huge host of books.

"Darnit...that princess is with him." Jack sighed and stepped back, pulling out the Reversing Mirror. "Alright Jack, now is your time to shine. You've done this a million times before....and lost most of them, but this time it's different. It's just a stupid froo froo princess. Totally easy."

This probably wasn't the best plan Jack could come up with. But it was a plan, no matter how poorly thought out. He kicks open the door and points at the princess and her dragon immediately "Alright Princess! Hand over your pet dragon and nobody gets hurt!"

The Princess turns her head to look upon Jack Spicer."What in the?...Spike do you know that guy?"

Spike looked over, surprised at the sudden outburst "No! But...." Suddenly shook his clawed fist at Jack "I'm NOT A PET! IF THIS IS SOME SORT OF JOKE IT ISN'T FUNNY! geez, if this is a joke from Pinkie..it's pretty awful."

"I don't think it's a joke Spike.." Twilight suddenly stood at the ready "I think he might be asking for trouble"

Jack pointed at her "Oh you can bet your cushiony butt I'm asking for trouble! Like I said...hand over the dragon!"

"I don't know who you are, but I'm giving you a single warning to leave or else I'm going to give you trouble!" Twilight threatened

Jack didn't even think that as a threat. It was pathetic, sort of like a pestering monk he knows of. "ugh...that's so lame. I'm the one who is already bringing trouble in actuality. So you can't give me what I already have. Seriously, why is it everybody I meet can't come up with a clever comeback."

Spike growled at him "Hey! Just because Twilight is terrible at comebacks doesn't mean she can't eventually come up with a better one later on!"

Twilight sighed "...uhh...thanks...Spike...ahrm..Anyway, Are you going to leave? or turn yourself in? Because I AM NOT going to let you take my friend!" Twilight's horn began to glow

Jack smirked at her "nah, I think I'll be taking him...JACKBOTS ATTACK!"
nothing happens.

"Twilight...do you see anything?" Spike asked

Twilight looked around, ready to defend herself and her assistant "They might be invisible Spike, keep on your toes!"

"a-a-actually...I sorta do that all the time. But haha...I don't have any at the moment so...forgot about that..silly me..so..how about THIS THEN!" Jack takes out his snare gun and fires it at Spike. Trapping him.

"Gah! Twilight Help!" Spike cried out as he tried to claw out. The snare was made out of some odd pseudo rope metal binding.

"Spike! GGRR..THATS IT! I WARNED YOU!" Twilight rose up and released a magical blast at Jack

Jack just smiled as the blast came towards him, then he brought it out. with a cry of "REVERSING MIRROR"

Jack easily sent the blast back at the angered and unsuspecting Twilight, the blast itself was enough to knock her out of the air and send her sliding across the floor. The magic wasn't meant to do any actual harm. Just blow back any intruder and stun them.

"TWILIGHT!" Spike called out "Are you ok? Come on, Get up!"

"I-I can't...t-that was my disabling spell...n..ngh..hh-how did he?" Twilight struggled to get up. But to no avail.

Jack just laughed as he walked up to Twilight and mocked her "Easy Horse-for-Brains. I used my Shen Gong Wu. Too bad you're too stupid to even know what that is! hahaha! You should have seen the look on your face right before you got zapped! It was priceless! Well, I'll be taking my dragon now! later loser!"

Jack walked up to the snared dragon and grabbed the connecting rope and began to drag him along

"Why you! When I get out of this. I'm gonna rip you apart! Nobody hurts Twilight and gets away with it!"

Jack rolled his eyes "Can it dog breath, you're mine now. Deal with it."

Twilight dragged herself the best she could over to Jack, trying to stop him. Jack just looked at her eyes and snickered "Awww, why such a long face? HAHAHA GET IT! LONG!..BECAUSE YOU’RE A HORSE?! OH MAN, THIS HAS GOT TO BE THE EASIEST WIN I EVER HAD! LATER PRINCESS! I HAVE SOME SHEN GONG WU TO COLLECT!"

Twilight could only watch as Jack activated his Helipack and flew out a window. Cackling as he headed back to the abandoned castle. Figuring flying to it would definitely be the better plan.

Spike was crying out for Twilight. But could do nothing as he got taken through the air in the dead of night.

Twilight began to cry. Easily defeated and losing one of her closest friends in mere minutes.

Chapter 5 - "Get to Work, Dragon!"

Jack carried off Spike to the abandoned castle in the forest.

Try as he might. The wayward baby dragon was unable to claw his way out. His small flames couldn't even make a burn mark on the fibers of the net.

Any insult Spike gave to Jack was met with him shaking the net in his hands to shut him up. He didn't want to deal with any replying at the moment. In case a monster from the forest showed up from nowhere and knocked him out of his flight path

Luckily for Jack, he managed to get back to the castle unscathed and tosses the netted dragon to a corner as he shook his hands, trying to get feeling back in them from carrying such a load. "ugh, you're pretty heavy for a small fry, you know that?"

Spike just crossed his arms and sat down while in the net, giving Jack the stink eye.

"I know that look. But sorry to break it to you lizard lips but you're mine now. Unfair but square. I went through a lot of trouble to capture you!" Jack said as he took out his own Shen Gong Wu and placed them on a table to lighten his weight. "So don't whine and do your job!"

Spike raised an eyebrow. Did he seriously get captured and have to watch his best friend get zapped because this guy needed a personal assistant? "You have to be KIDDING ME! YOU BARGED IN AND ATTACKED TWILIGHT...JUST FOR AN ASSISTANT?! YOU MONSTER!”

Jack just turned to him, smiled and bowed "Thank you, I try to keep my evil rep as high as possible. NOW GET TO WORK! I got robot making to do!"

Spike tried to get up to him to attack, but the net itself seemed fixed on it's position "IF YOU THINK I'M GOING TO WRITE ANY LETTERS FOR YOU OR GET YOU NEW QUILLS, YOU GOT ANOTHER THING COMING!"

"letters? Quills? What? Don't play dumb with me dragon. I know what you are! now get to sensing some Shen Gong Wu or whatever you call it in this world!" Jack told Spike

Spike was getting confused, he had no idea what Jack was talking about "Shen Gong What? I don't even..." Spike couldn't even figure out what was the point of capturing him for something he knew doesn't exist in this world. Furthermore, Spike started to realize where he was taken to "....are you just insane? or stupid?"

Jack felt a flash of anger at such an insinuation and pointed his finger directly at Spike "Watch who you're talking to, I'm trying to be a little nice in hopes you see things my way. But things can get ugly...oh ho...you can bet one way or another, I'm gonna get what I need from you."

Spike just gave him an arrogant and confident smile "I don't hear a no"

"THATS BECAUSE YOU DIDN'T GIVE ME TIME TO...GRRR..FINE, I TRIED TO BE NICE.....JACKBOTS, PERSUADE THIS PIPSQUEAK TO GIVE UP THE GOODS!!!"

Spike just looked around, expecting something to pop out since they were at Jack's "Homebase"......but nothing happened.

"uhhh..." Spike looked around, then he whispered to himself "definitely insane."

Jack, once again making a fool of himself, tries to make the best recovery he can muster "I-I mean they will eventually force you to do what I want...uhmm..later...they went out for coffee...So don't go sitting there thinking they don't exist. BECAUSE THEY DO! So you better be scared dragon, oh so scared, SUPER SCARED. Think about that before you cross someone like me again! huh! HMM!"

Spike just looks at him like he's crazy

Jack didn't know what else to say, and he didn't want his prisoner thinking he had nothing to actually threaten him with...at least not at the moment. Jack just blinked, quietly turned around, and went to gather more knight armor to use to make a second Knightbot.

Spike just took his claw and span it around the side of his own head, silently whispering "crraazzyyyy"

Spike wasn't very scared of his predicament at all at this point. Not only did his captor seem dumb, meaning he probably only got lucky against Twilight. But the screwball set his "home base" in the former castle of the two sisters. Which meant, sooner or later. His friends would show up for a "visit". The only thing he couldn't figure out was how he easily deflected Twilight's spell. It looked like he used some sort of mirror. But. Mirrors don't deflect spells like that.

Then suddenly, Spike began to cringe as Jack started to sing. "You put the screw in there and you put the bolt in here, you put the node right there and you shake it all about. You do the Jacky Spicer and you kick Omi in the face! That's what it's all about. Come on Ev....oh right..." Jack immediately stopped singing after that verse, he kept forgetting he had no actual company.

Jack continued working on his Knightbot. He planned to use it as his personal guard until the CMC could get him the scraps he needed to build his army. But as he worked on it, he noticed his little prisoner hasn't had any kind of usual Shen Gong Wu reaction yet. "Hey! What's taking you so long. You should have sensed something by now!"

Spike was still confused by this "sensing" stuff "I don't know who you think I am but I have NO idea what you're talking about. Maybe we should get you back to Ponyville to get you to a doctor...possibly a psychiatrist."

Jack stopped what he was doing and walked up to Spike "Listen here small fry, dragons are known to to be able to sense all kinds of magical artifacts! So if you think you're gonna fool me. You can forget it. I know you know what Shen Gong Wu are, and I'm going to prove it right now....by giving you a chance to escape."

Spike said nothing, this guy was clearly off his rocker.

Jack smirked as he went to grab his monkey staff and dropped it in front of Spike to grab within the open holes of the net. "This Shen Gong Wu will help you escape by allowing you to make that tail of yours well...longer and monkeyish.." Jack then tossed his keys to the floor, just out of reach of Spike, "I know you wanna get out little man. Just use the staff to grab the keys to unlock the netlock and you're free to go." Jack smiled happily "I give you my word as a honorable Heylin"

Spike wondered if he should trust him...he reluctantly reached out for the staff and grabbed it.

Spike then began to inspect the staff. Looked a tad creepy, but whatever works. He uses the staff to grab the keys and drag it towards him "...well...that was easy"

"THA..WHAT NO!" Jack smacked the keys away from spike "You can't do it that way!"

Spike glared at him, anger in his words "BUT YOU SAID IF I COULD GET THE KEYS I'M FREE TO GO!"

Jack snarled "ONLY IF YOU DID IT RIGHT, YOU GOTTA USE THE STAFF!"

"I DID USE THE STAFF!" Spike Yelled

"YOU GOTTA USE IT RIGHT!" Jack retorted

"ooooohhh.....you mean...LIKE THIS!" Spike revved up for a swing and hit Jack right at the knee cap with the staff, making him scream out like a little girl and fall over. holding his knee.

"ooowwiiiiaaahhh...w..WHY DID YOU...OH NO NOT THE FACE!" Before Jack could pull up his hands to block. Spike had managed to beat on his face with the staff....repeatedly. Every hit making Jack squeal in pain.

After a few hits, Jack managed to roll and crawl away. Holding his face as lumps formed. "O...oo..OWie!!..Y-You'll PAY FOR THAT....owww!..mmgh" Jack began to cry "B-b-but later!..I...I gotta go put ointment on my face.."

Jack crawled away and out of the room as Spike chuckled. "ha..that was pretty fun."

once Jack was out of the room, Spike noticed he had left the keys. "too easy, ha." Spike used the staff to once again bring it over. He grabbed the keys and quickly put it in the lock of the net....but it didn't unlock it...the key was a fake.

Spike grumped and tossed the key aside "figures..."

Jack was huddled over in another room, rubbing his face. Sadly, he had not brought any ointment with him. He was looking through the reversing mirror "...oh man..why did he have to hit my moneymaker like that? Stupid dragon, oygh.."

Jack slowly got back up, taking a deep breath to try to get over the pain. "I hope those three little ponies are doing a good job...they're so cute! I think it'll actually be nice to have them around as generals once I get my evil plan underway....What were their names again? Pineapple?..Creepy Smell? and umm...Shootapoop? Bah whatever, I can ask them when I see them again. Back to business."

With one more rub of his face, Jack went back into the main room where the thrones were and continued his work on the Knightbot. Spike at this point was trying to get some sleep, since he wasn't going anywhere

Unfortunately, Jack's workings were keeping him awake "Can you keep it down? I'm trying to get some sleep over here!"

"Shut it scales! I'm the evil mastermind here! So what I say goes around here!" Jack told him as he began to solder some metal.

Spike just grumbled...covering his ears

Jack just continued his work. He was going to give this knightbot a mace this time. To bash those wolf monsters into dust. They couldn't reform then...or so he hoped.

Spike was getting restless. He was trying to come up with a way to keep him quiet. Then..it hit him. "WOOOAHH...I'M SENSING A SHEN....SOMETHING!"

Jack stopped and immediately grinned as he rushed up to Spike "YOU ARE?! QUICK! WHERE IS IT?! TELL ME!"

Spike smirked "You really wanna know?"

"DUH! NOW OUT WITH IT SHORTSTUFF!" Jack barked

Spike waved at him to come closer "psst, come closer, don't need anypony else to hear right?"

Jack, aside from wondering what the heck "anypony" meant, did consider there might be spies about. And moved closer to spike "..ok..so where is it?"

Spike smiled more evilly "closer man, closer."

Jack brought his face close to Spike's.

"Well....it's right..over..BWOOSH" Spike let out a wisp of flame onto Jack's hair. Immediately sending the evil boy genius into a panic.

"AHHHH MY HAIR! MY HAIR!!!" Jack ran around screaming, calling for help or water. He was so blinded by his hysteria that he tripped on a bucket by the wall, causing him to fall and hit his head, knocking him into a huge daze. The bucket then lands on his head...dousing him in a yellow liquid. "...wuah...that smells..like....oh..it's..my...pee.." Too dazed from the knock on the noggin, Jack falls unconscious in his own liquid waste. He had been using the bucket to take a piss, and possibly another for dumps. Scared to do it outside in the open incase anyone would see. Wuya gave him his privacy for it...for her own sanity.

Spike yawned with a small giggle "Well that shut him up...mnnn" He laid himself down on the net and tried to get cozy "...nothing to worry about...this guy is an idiot...you'll be rescued eventually Spike...mnn...I hope you're ok Twilight...don't worry too much about me...I'll be ok..."

and with that, Spike dozed off. The castle falling into complete silence.

Chapter 6 - Wuya's Return

The morning sun rises

Above the castle of Twilight Sparkle, a magical force of purple energy begins to swirl above. Eventually coming together to reform the ghastly wisp known as Wuya.

"YOU INCOMPETENT BOOB! THIS IS WHY I CAN'T LEAVE YOU ALONE FOR A.....Jack?"
The now reformed Ghost Wuya looks around. Only to see that Jack has not only gone missing. But the sun was rising. She had just returned to a conscious state while still believing she was in her previous angered moment.

"How long was I out?..grr, darn it Jack. I don't even have blood pressure and somehow you still make me pop some sort of ethereal vein." Wuya said as she shook her tendrils in rage

Wuya tries to see if any trail was left from atop the castle as to where he may have gone. But no dice, other than a few grimy slide marks. "Little fool must have fallen. Maybe looking at his broken form will cheer me up."

Wuya flew down to where he would have fallen, but no Jack
She sighed "Great, the little ingrate really did leave. Probably thinks he can take over this world without me. Didn't even bother to see if I was ok at all. They weren't kidding when they said chivalry was dead, even among your own team...mmm?"
Wuya noticed a shiny little object crawling around. It looked like a bug but it was actually... "Ahaaa...One of Jack's little spybots. The cretin must have left it here to do some extra....no, what am I saying. He probably left it behind."

Wuya flew up to the spy bot and greeted it "Hello little spybot, would you have any information that might prove useful to me?"

The spybot just shuffled around

"I'm trying to be polite ,you know" Wuya said

The spybot said nothing

"...you can't talk, can you?" Wuya realized

The spybot just made a simple gesture with it's spider like legs

"Jack really needs to redesign this thing. How am I supposed to get any of it's information without any of his stupid hardware?" Wuya inquired
The Spybot responded to her words and provided holographic screens of not only Jack's reconnaissance. But what had occurred last night. And what Wuya saw fueled her ever present rage.

"THAT IDIOT HAD THE REVERSING MIRROR THE WHOLE TIME?! WAIT...HE DOESN'T HAVE THE SERPENT'S TAIL..THAT IDIOT!...THAT FOOL...THAT REPROBATE!!..I CAN'T BELIEVE HOW...GGGHHNNGGH.....ggnnh.." Wuya did her best to calm down "Get a grip Wuya, you have more important things to deal with than the stupidity of a mortal"

Wuya continued to watch the holoscreens. Seeing Jack easily defeat Twilight with a dirty tactic and rushing off with Spike. But it ends there. "hmmm, It seems Jack plans to really try to do things without me. Very well, it looks like I will have to even the playing field. But how..?”

after a few moments, it hit Wuya. "hahaha! of course. Evening the playing is EXACTLY what I should do. If Jack is going to replace me with that slobbering beast. Then who's to say I can't replace the slobbering beast to that poor, innocent...dimwit of a princess. Jack doesn't realize that I can still sense Shen Gong Wu of our world. But I will have to be careful. I will have to try to steer this towards that artifact I had heard about...that Alicorn Amulet. It's evil magic might be enough to infuse this ghostly form of mine back to my beautiful self."

Wuya sighed "Well...time to put on a smile and...ugh.....be good. How nauseating"

Wuya flew into the Castle, making sure to stay hidden so she could show herself at the most opportune time.

through her flight, she finally happened upon Twilight. who was just awakening from her stunned unconsciousness. Never being hit with her own magic before, it must have hit her harder than she thought.

"ngh..Spike..don..don't...SPIKE?!" Twilight looked around "SPIKE!..OH NO!"

She picked herself up and started calling for him, but no answer "Oh no...that thing..he really took Spike. How could I be so stupid as to get hit by my own spell. I've never seen a spell deflected so quickly and easily before..how did he..."

"How did he deflect it? Easy my dear Princess, the being that took your dragon used a magical item called a Shen Gong Wu. The Reversing Mirror to be exact. Able to deflect or reverse anything that comes in contact with it. I apologize that I could not arrive sooner to try to warn you of his attack. You have my sincerest apologies" Wuya's voice filled the room

Twilight stood at the ready, she wasn't about to get beat twice. She never expected strange beings to just infiltrate her home so easily. "Who's there?! Show yourself!"

Wuya slowly appeared through a wall, giving an almost eerie smile "Calm yourself Princess, I can understand you being on high alert. But I mean you no harm. I have only come to seek your aid...although..it seems you might need mine as well. Allow me to introduce myself. I am the benevolent witch of love and friendship, Wuya" Wuya could almost feel some sort of ectoplasmic puke build up in her as she said that.

"Benevolent Witch? I'm sorry, I've never heard of you before" Twilight was trying to be cautious, but she wasn't about to show any actual aggression towards a being of goodness.

"as you shouldn't have. I have lived in secret for centuries.Keeping balance in many worlds. or at least...I did" Wuya did her best to sound upset and hurt

Twilight started to walk up to her, concerned on what she meant. "what do you mean? What happened?"

"An evil being known as Jack Spicer came and attacked me in my home. He stole the powerful Shen Gong Wu I possessed and removed me from my power, my body. And left me in this ghost form.I haven't been able to stop him since he did this to me. All I could do is watch as he destroyed my home and enslaved my people...Now he plans to take over all of Equestria"

Twilight was surprised, and felt empathetic towards Wuya's false plight. "I'm sorry Wuya, had I known. I would have done something sooner. I didn't even know a being like that was terrorizing Equestria...I guess that's why I failed to protect Spike...one of my best friends..."

Wuya flew closer and gave her a cheery smile but it came out creepy and sharp toothed "Do not beat yourself up, Princess.You were a victim the same as I. Jack Spicer is a very intelligent, cunning, and evil being who thinks of nothing but ruining the land with his tyranny"

"No, I let Spike down...I don't even know why he would take him." Twilight was falling more and more into distress. She couldn't come up with a single reason as to why someone would kidnap her companion.

"It is simply for the fact that he is a dragon capable of locating magical artifacts. Jack is going to use him to gain as much power as possible." Wuya explained

"But that can't be right. Spike can't do that. In fact, I don't think any dragon has that kind of ability." Twilight said

"......he can't?" Wuya now just realized she had made a miscalculation, though. One she didn't need to concern herself with now that she knew and Jack didn’t.

Twilight shook her head "no, I don't know where anypony would get an idea like that"

"yes...I have no idea...either..ahrm..But Jack doesn't realize that. So it will give us some time to save your friend. Something I can help you with." Wuya smile became more vicious as she closed in to making an "alliance" .

"you can? You know where he is?" Twilight was already ready to go, all she needed was a location.

Wuya shook her head "Not at the moment my dear. But the artifacts he stole from me are linked to me in such a way that I can sense them once they are activated. He need only use one of them at any time and I'll know exactly where he is. I'll be happy to help you in your endeavor anyway I can."

Twilight smiled happily, she now had a way to locate her friend quickly. But she now had someone who has dealt with this new evil before. She could create a proper plan of attack. "Thank you Wuya, any help I can get is greatly appreciated. And I promise I will do whatever I can do get your body back."

Wuya's smile became that of pure evil, but she was doing her darndest to keep it of good intent "I'm glad to have your support as well Princess Twilight. In fact, I already have an idea of going about doing that."

"Whatever it is, you have it on my honor and on my word that I will support you one hundred percent" Twilight was 100% committed to this. Anyone with this much insight and having suffered as she has cannot be evil.
"Ahh good good. For now, we must wait until Jack uses his Shen Gong Wu. then I'll know exactly where he is." Wuya said

"mmnn" Twilight didn't want to wait, but she didn't want to waste time chasing down what could be nothing. "How will you know he'll use one, wouldn't he keep himself from using it if you were searching for him?"

"oh erm...Jack has a tendency to use Shen Gong Wu quite often..." Wuya started to fake cry "he...insults me whenever we meet because he knows I cannot do anything to stop him. Always bringing up the fact of how worthless I am."

"hmm, given my only encounter with him. It sounds like something he'd do. Alright then, I need to tell my friends what happened. With all six of us. We should be able to bring down Jack when he shows himself....Don't worry Spike, I'm coming." Twilight started to walk toward her castle doors.

Wuya followed "That sounds like a good plan Princess, I would also love to meet these friends of yours. Being the benevolent witch that I am. I always LOVE making new friends. eheh."

Twilight gave her a smile "I'm sure they'd love to meet you too. Especially Pinkie, she can be pretty erratic. But you can bet that whenever you're down that she will always bring you back up guaranteed."

"Yes, hehe...that sounds lovely" Wuya said that, but internally she was cursing herself for not realizing how goody two shoes these ponies really were. Luckily for her, or so she believes. the more good they are, the more they will honor their word.

Chapter 7 - Jack Has Got His Scrap

Meanwhile, at the Sweet Apple Acres

"Woah, I'm impressed." Jack said with a wide smile as he looked upon a large pile of junk and metal inside the barn.

"It twern't nothing. all the townsfolk always have one thing or another lying around. And if it's to save Equestria, then we had to do our very best for the namesake of being Cutie Mark Crusaders!" Applebloom said with pride. Happy to know she and her friends did a good job.

Jack was ecstatic, he finally had a set of minions who, in his eyes, could do him no wrong. Plus, it looked like enough to make a good number of Jackbots. He figured he could even build a few scavenger models to bring him more scrap. He turned around and gave Applebloom a hug "Good work, Applezoom!"

"no problem..but umm..my name is Applebloom, not Applezoom" She said, half heartedly hugging him. She didn't appreciate him forgetting her name like that.

"Right....say, where are your pals?" he said as he put her down

"It's still mornin, the're probably still gettin' up" Applebloom said as she took a whiff, smelling something terrible. "Ummm...mister Jack...you sorta smell funny."

"oh..yeah..it's just some...new shampoo i've been using, haha" He wasn't about to tell her his head got drenched in his own piss.

"oh" Applebloom rubbed the back of her head with her hoof, trying to put her next words delicately."maaayyybbbeeeee, you should get a new brand. you sort of smell like like a rotten apple."

Jack winced as he inspected the scrap, he tried to ignore it as he stay focused on the next step of his plan. "now all I gotta do is get these to the castle" he began to ponder how he was going to do that without making it obvious or getting caught. He stood there, for minutes.

Applebloom was getting uncomfortable "Is somethin wrong?"

"Nothing I can't solve...." except he couldn't solve it "But, if I were to hypothetically ask you how'd you get all this stuff out of here without anyone noticing. how would you go about doing it?"

Applebloom began to think. She knew for the sake of Equestria that she had to keep it all a secret. However, at the moment. She couldn't think straight "...ummm..Mister Jack, I'm getting a little woozy"

Jack yawned "Yeah, it is still a little early. But evil never sleeps!....I mean the evil were dealing with, not me...I'm not evil...like at all"

"Oh I know. But that's not why ahm feeling woozy." Applebloom said

"Then what's the problem?" Jack inquired

"Well umm...maybe it's just....I can think better while I wash your head with some of our Apple shampoo?" Applebloom was getting sick of the smell.

Jack sniffed "Is it really that bad?Be honest."

Applebloom nodded "I don't wanna sound mean....but you could probably put out a whole herd of buffalo with that smell."

Jack frowned "You didn't need to be THAT honest....but fine, whatever. Sounds good. Make it happen Appleboom"

"Applebloom" She corrected him

"Whatever, gotta hurry...gotta think" he started rubbing his chin as she scampered off to get shampoo and a wash bucket.

a few moments later, Applebloom had Jack sit and lean back as she removed his goggles and began to wash his head for him. She believed she was doing important work, helping a bonafide hero. So It didn't bother her.

"So, any ideas yet?" Jack said as he got his head washed. It was actually quite comfy. And he didn't even have to order her to get it done.

"Not really. it'd seem mighty suspicious if we just started moving this stuff out of the barn all of a sudden." Applebloom said, feeling a little grossed out at the condition of Jack's hair.

"Suspicious huh? explain" Jack was curious, he realized that if they were bringing all this stuff here. Then wouldn't that be suspicious?

"Well, mah sister was asking what we were up to and we told her we were gonna try gettin our cutie marks in machine buildin.So don't worry, we didn't tell her about you or nothin. But she did sort of laugh saying how silly that was"

"SILLY!? there is nothing silly about making machines or robots!" Jack got up immediately, soap still in his hair "Listen here Appletomb!"

"Applebloom" Applebloom corrected him again

"right...ahrm..anyway. There is nothing wrong with wanting to make machines." Jack told her, his pride bubbling up

"Oh no, I know. But we only said that to throw her off. Though, if we could get Cutie Marks in either that or world savin. That'd be ok too!" Applebloom explained

"Theres nothing wrong with that either....sort of...anyway, what I'm trying to say is your sister shouldn't be ridiculing you for such a great thing as being able to make machines. It's an art, there's nothing more beautiful than watching your little robobaby soar and cause massive havoc....to your enemies...haha..anyway. It is something to take pride in! Knowing that your knowledge and skill is integral to your plans to co..saving the world! and even making a yesbot to reaffirm how true that all is!" Jack started to get a tear in his eye "I miss you yesbot"

Applebloom clapped "Wow! that was very inspiring!

Jack smiled, she was even finding his speeches inspiring. Nobody had found his speeches inspirational before that was living breathing flesh. he went to wipe a way his tears, not realizing some of the shampoo had gotten onto it. Stinging his eye. "OWW..ohh, ngh. darn it!"

"did ya get some of the shampoo in your eye?" Applebloom inquired

Jack was gently rubbing his eyes, keeping them closed "yeah, geez that stings"

"Don't worry, I'll get y'all some water!" Applebloom rushed to get an empty pail and some fresh water to wash his eyes out.

She returned a short moment later and put the pail down next to him. "There ya go Jack! I hope this helps"

"Thanks Bloomapple" Jack said and he leaned down, still keeping his eyes closed.

"A-applebloom..it's ApplebloWAIT JACK NO!, YA DON-" she cried out. Jack had accidentally grabbed the washbucket....and poured it in his eyes.

"AHHHHHHHHHHH, AHHHHHH, THAT DIDN'T HELP AT ALL! I'M BLIND! IT FEELS LIKE THERES A THOUSAND OMIS POKING MY EYES AT ONCE! AHHHH! WHAT'S WORSE IS I ACTUALLY THINK HE'D DO THAT IF HE HAD THE CHANCE!! AHHHHHH" Jack ran around screaming in girlish agony. Holding his hands to his eyes "THEY'RE MELTING!!! OH MAN!! I CAN FEEL THEM MELTING!!!"

"You grabbed the wrong one! But don't worry, I'll save ya!" She grabbed the pail in her teeth and began to spin in a circle to get the water to hit his face using momentum.

She then let go....accidently launching the whole bucket. Smashing into Jack's face and knocking him down as the bucket flips straight up, dropping water all over his face. and then the bucket itself landing on his head.

"O-oops...a..are ya ok?" Applebloom asked, cringing at her own screwup.

Jack took a breath "in my usual moments of pain...this is actually not that bad....my eyes don't hur....OH MY MAYONNAISE I'VE GONE BLIND! NOOOOOO"

Applebloom sighed and took the bucket off his head

"OOOOOooo.....k...it was just a bucket" Jack giggled sheepishly

"you’re lucky Jack, if my sister or brother were around, they would have heard you by now." Applejack was having a small bubble of doubt about Jack's abilities.

Jack quickly stood up and wiped himself off. "not around? Where are they?"

"Well, muh brother Big Macintosh is busy bucking apples for the rest of the day because muh sister got called to Princess Twilight's castle all of a sudden...seemed pretty important."

Jack froze in place. It had to be about his raid earlier that night. He had no idea Applebloom's sister was some sort of royal guard. He didn't see any guards at all. Maybe it was her day off so she could farm? But suddenly his fear became that of cunning when he realized things fell perfectly in place for him. If Applebloom's brother was going to be busy all day and her sister was out.... "Hey...What if I made my robots right here in this barn? Infact, you can help me if you want. And so can your friends when they get here! It can be one big ev...ahrm..happy-go-lucky machine building hootananny!" Jack said, an evil smirk forming in his lips when he realized how perfect his plan is. He could build a small army in secret with no one noticing right where he was. He'd just have to worry about Twilight later, he already knew he could beat her. Jackbots would just even the odds of whoever she'd have at her side

"Ah love to! But can we wait for Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle? I don't want to get started without them, we do everything together! You don't even have to worry! they are already probably on their way!" Applebloom was getting excited, she just hope the doubt she felt was nothing.

"..ok fine, but I'll only wait a little while. This is very important work and I can't be stalling that long for them to show up" Jack said as he took out a piece of paper to write down the names Applebloom just said. Making a cheat sheet of names to remember.

"Oh don't worry, they'll be here...oh this is gonna be great. We're either going to be Cutie Mark Crusader Robot Makers or Cutie Mark Crusader World Savers!...hmmm, I wonder if we can be both? hehe!"

Jack took out a toolkit from his coat and set it down next to him as he looked evilly upon the piles of scrap. He started to rub his hands together as an evil glint shined in his eye "this is going to be sweet..."

And so Jack waited. He didn't want to upset the young horse girl..thing...now that he had her complete loyalty. And he did appreciate the help to get his plans off the ground that much faster. He already knew he could get his army up and running before day's end. His building speed was on level with most saturday morning do-baddery.

It didn't take too long for Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo to show up. They said their hellos and seemed pretty happy to see Jack. But Sweetie Belle looked a little anxious "Hey..Applebloom. Did your sister get called to the castle too?"

Applebloom nodded "yup,..hrm? So Rarity got called in too?"

Sweetie Belle nodded "yeah, at first she was pretty cranky about getting her beauty rest. But when she got told of why, she just calmed down and left. It's gotta be big if it's enough to make her that way."

Applebloom had to ask, she was curious "So did ya find out why she was called in?"

Sweetie Belle shook her head "No, but I bet Pinkie,Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash got called in too. But they aren't telling anypony why. I wonder what happened."

Applebloom frowne, she hoped nobody was hurt "me too"

Scootaloo was just looking at the parts they had gathered "You girls worry too much, whatever it is. Rainbow Dash will fix it before you can say...well...Rainbow Dash" she was pretty confident.

Jack decided to cut in, he didn't want anyone talking about the subject for too long. He already had a good guess as to why these ponies he never heard of were getting summoned up. "Well! Whatever happened. That's not for us to worry about huh? I mean, we gotta get underway in making those robots...and um...getting you all those Cutie Mark things!"

Scootaloo was the first speak up "Yeah! Let's do it! Besides we have our own problems to worry about. We gotta help Jack beat Wuya!"

The other two nodded in agreement. Whatever it was. they knew their sisters and their friends could handle it. Right now they had their own world saving to do.

Chapter 8 - Scootaloo the Genius

Jack began to work on making his Jackbots. Feeling a newfound vigor as he couldn't wait to be able to yell out "JACKBOTS! ATTACK!" And something actually happen.

He would call out for various tools for the CMC to bring him. Sometimes he had to correct them, but he actually didn't snap at them for doing any wrong. He had grown somewhat attached to them. And he wanted to teach them enough to get by. He still had to use his cheat sheet to get their names right though. Since they didn't have normal human names.

"Sweetie Belle, I notice you got a horn on your head. You can do magic right?" Jack asked, interested to see if he could perhaps use it as some energy source. Since there was no fuel around.

"Not very well...but...whatever you ask, I'll do my best!" She said, puffing her chest out.

Jack tried not to squee from the cuteness. There could only be so much softness one of evil should publically show. He pulled out some special looking contraption and held it out to her. "I need to see what happens when this is zapped with magic"

Sweetie Belle got close to look at it. It looked like some glass jar with some gears and pistons on it. It was straight out of some sort of steampunk dealie. "What is it?"

Jack pointed at it "This is the emergency power unit for my Jackbots. Since I don't got any fuel around. This will have to do. But if my calculations are correct, then giving it a magical boost could provide the power I need to make them run....or it could explode and take us all out in a horrible blaze."

Sweetie Belle's eyes widened "T-that's a joke right?"

Jack had realized what he just said, he didn't even have a basis on his theory. He just knew these had a chance to blow up with an improper source of power. "Oh..y-yeah! hahaha! I'm quite the jokester..haha...ha..so um, can you try hitting it with your best shot?"

Sweetie Belle felt reluctant given the "joke". But she wanted to be of help. She gave the EPU a good stare before closing her eyes and mustering as much magic as she can. She didn't have a spell in mind. So she just tried to imagine a flow of magic going into it. the device started glow, sputter, and shake violently.

Jack screamed and ducked into some hay immediately "HIT THE DECK IT'S GONNA BLOW!"

The CMC Panicked and jumped into the haystack with him. But the EPU didn't explode. It just ran, and it didn't seem to be draining internal power like it normally would. Jack poked his head out "It worked? what?! IT ACTUALLY WORKED?!? HAHAHA, I AM A GENIUS!" He hopped out of the haystack and started dancing "GO JACK! WOO WOO! GO JACK! UH HUH! UH HUH!"

The CMC just poked their heads out, and gave Jack a mean look. "I thought ya said it exploding was a joke" Said Applebloom, mystified by Jack’s lie

Jack stopped his celebratory dance and looked at them "..It was a joke..haha...got to keep you three on your...erm..toe..le...hooves? I dunno, just take it as it is. The point is it worked, and that I'm a genius!"

The CMC popped out of the hay, still a little angry at the "mean spirited joke". But they had to disregard it for now. Equestria was in danger! "Jack, can we stay focused? I mean, we gotta save the world right? Scootaloo asked.

"Right,focused. Let's get back to work, the first Jackbot is almost finished anyway. I want to show you all how it works. You'll love it" Jack said as he grabbed the EPU unit and installed it into the Jackbot and closed the hatch. Then he turned around "Applebloom!"

Applebloom saluted "Sir!"

"I need apples!"Jack said

Applebloom wondered why he needed them..unless "Wow! Are you going to use them for something special to power your robots too?"

Jack shook his head "No, I'm gonna use them to power myself. I'm starving. A hero like myself needs as much food as possible. So just bring me the best you got! got it?"

Applebloom frowned, she thought it was going to be more important "Y-yes sir!" she went off to get the freshest apples she could get. and maybe a few snacks for herself and the girls.

As Jack turned around, he spotted Scootaloo climbing around on the Jackbot. "Hey! What are you doing?!"

Scootaloo had a wrench in her mouth. She seemed to be tightening the bolts on the Jackbot. She carefully hopped down onto the ground and put the wrench down. "Tightening up the bolts, Jack, sir! I may not look it. But I'm getting pretty good at putting stuff together myself"

Jack stood up to inspect the bolts. Yeah..they were tight. and she did it pretty quickly "Wow...good work." he turned to look at her "Building stuff huh? So you're some sort of genius?"

Scootaloo smiled at the insinuation "hehe, not really. Still sorta learning. But I am getting good at it."

"Don't put yourself down like that! If you keep at it. One day..you may...just may..be as good as me. All you need is some natural talent, brains, and practice. But at least you got a built in escape plan on your back huh?" Jack said, trying to offer her his sagely wisdom.

"Actually..mnnn" Scootaloo frowned. "I...sorta ..kinda...can't fly.." She looked down in shame from saying that. That even this guy had a way of flying, and her "natural escape plan" didn't work.

Normally, Jack would have found this hilarious. With the added plight even being moreso. But he couldn't laugh. It downright hurt him to know a fellow “genius” was flightless . "That just isn't right. Aren't you supposed to be able to fly? I mean you're a flying horse thing right?"

This line of questioning was only making her feel worse, she slowly shook her head "yeah...but..I just can't....I dunno if I'll ever be able to" She was starting to tear up. To her, to know even a flightless being was able to fly using his marvelous machine. It just made her feel shameful.

Sweetie Belle interjected "uuhh...Mister Jack..I don't think we should talk about it anymore" She walked up to her friend and gave her a nuzzle "Don't worry about it Scootaloo, you'll be able to fly one day. Or my name isn't Sweetie Belle."

as Scootaloo nuzzled back, Jack took a quick look at his cheat sheet to make sure her name was actually Sweetie Belle.

"I hope so..." Scootaloo said, trying to get her spirits up.

Jack turned around, deep in thought. He took off his helipack and reached into his toolkit and began to mess with it. Removing and rearranging pieces of it. Working furiously.

Applebloom walks back into the barn. Balancing three bowls of apples and a container with apple related treats "Got the food Mister Jack"

"yeah yeah, just put it somewhere Applejuice. Working on something" He was too busy to sneak a peak at his cheat sheet.

Applebloom sighed, he was doing so good too. then she looked at Scootaloo "Scootaloo, what's the matter?"

Scootaloo looked back at her, trying to smile from Sweetie Belle's comfort "It's nothing. hehe, just got reminded of something sad. It's ok now."

"Not yet it isn't!" Jack quickly got up and forcibly strapped something onto Scootaloo's back.

Scootaloo, startled by Jack, actually tries to fight him off "Hey get off! What are you doing?!"

"Hold still! Darnit!" He was having trouble keeping her still.

Applebloom revved up a bucking "What are ya doing to Scootaloo! Get off her!"

Jack managed to get whatever it was strapped onto her and jumped back. "Geez, relax. I tell ya, you actually try to do something nice for once and you still get hated on"

Sweetie Belle looked on the new and strange device on Scootaloo and turned to Jack "w-what is that thing?"

Jack snickered as he pulled out a small remote and pointed it at Scootaloo "You're about to find out" he then pushed the button.

Suddenly, small propellers came out of the small backpack like object behind Scootaloo. making her hover. "W-woah! What's going on?!"

Applebloom and Sweetie Belle were astonished "Scootaloo, yer,yer flying!"

"I am!?" She looked down "W-woah!" she smiled big "I AM FLYING!"

Jack couldn't help but smile, he rushed up in front of Scootaloo and waggled his finger at her "Ok, before you get too excited. Let me explain how you control it. I got the base of your wings connected to small metal controllers, so All you gotta do is mimic how a bird can fly and viola! You're flying."

"Wo-woah..ok..let me try..umm...UMM..HERE I GO..I HOPE!" Scootaloo spreads her wings and tries moving like a Pegasis would. It automatically moves her forward and around dependant on her wing positions. "LOOK GIRLS! I'M FLYING!" She was so happy. So excited.

Sweetie Belle just looked in awe, it was working much better than Tank's propellor ever could. "Wow! GO SCOOTALOO GO!"

As Scootaloo zipped around the barn, Applebloom turned to Jack and bowed "I'm-m awful sorry Jack, ah thought you just went nuts or somethin and attacked Scootaloo"

Jack smirked, and waved his hand "It's no big deal" he smiled as Scootaloo started soaring inside the barn "Just look at that, not even two minutes and she's already got the handle of it." a tear formed and ran down his cheek "I'm so proud, she'll make a good Evil Horse Girl Genius someday. And when she conquers the world...she'll be all like...Jack Spicer made this happen."

Applebloom was smiling, until she caught a few words that didn't seem right "Come again?"

"what…?" then Jack realised his mistake "Oh, that. I said Good Genius..and um..save the world...because that's what we are doing...Saving the world...yup!"

Applebloom shrugged "oh...coulda sworn you said somethin about evil and conquering worlds...musta been my imagination. I guess I'm just really happy for Scootaloo that I just imagined it...Thanks for helping her out Jack! As far as ahm concerned. You're Cutie Mark Crusader material!"

Sweetie Belle nodded in agreeance "Yeah, you're amazing Jack. We've never met anypony as cool as you are.....and you're not even a pony!"

Jack blushed "ahh girls, I already know I'm the coolest guy ever. As for Cutie Mark Crusader...Just call me a Cutie Mark Heylin...has a better ring to it."

Applebloom nodded "Alright....wait....what's a Heylin?"

"Not important! We still gotta finish the Jackbots." Jack turned back to making the Jackbots. Playtime was over for now. He knew he had to get it done before anyone else suspected him of being there. Though, he couldn’t help himself to look at Scootaloo every few moments. Who had forgotten why she was there in favor of flying about with her new toy.

And so he worked tirelessly through the day. One by One making a new Jackbot fueled by Sweetie Belle's unimpressive magic. By the end of it. It at least turned out to be a success in terms that they seemed to function like any other Jackbot would. Luckily for him. Just pouring magic into their units is better in terms for Sweetie Belle than her actually casting some sort of powering magic constantly. She seemed pretty ok despite her zapping all those power units.

With each passing moment Jack became closer with the CMC. Joking with them, telling them skewed versions of events that happened to him, and telling them just how much Wuya sucked. Making her sound like a complete tool.

Big Mac only came to check on the girls once, which Applebloom had an easy time guiding him away making him think they were working on a super secret project. Which wasn't far from the truth.

by the end of the day, Jack had managed to make a dozen Jackbots. Two specifically made to scavenge for more material.

What the future held for Jack. Nobody knew. He himself only knew the future he wanted to reach.

Chapter 10 - Raiding Twilight's Castle

Jack, already knowing he could raid the castle with ease; Stopping any magical force with his Reversing mirror. Decided to take the time to build himself a quick makeshift Helipack with the parts he saved from his old one and new parts from his returning scavenger bot.

Spike stayed silent, defeated by his own hunger. He could only hope the others could forgive him for spilling the beans.

Jack's plan was relatively simple. Scope out the place, go in, get out. Ponies seemed overall weaker than anything he's ever dealt with before. So he felt anything more complicated would be pointless.

After finishing his crude Helipack, he made off with six Jackbots into the night sky.He felt he didn't need them. But the urge to yell "JACKBOTS ATTACK" and them actually attack something was something he felt he needed.

They eventually reached the castle.

Jack landed on the roof, his Jackbots following. He didn't want to barge right in without at least knowing where to go. He reached into his coat. "where are ya?"

He couldn't find what he needed, he couldn't find...the spybot.

"Come on, I know I left you in there somewhere...right?" Jack questioned himself as he reached into every pocket.

Suddenly, he could feel a small poke through his shoes, making him yelp "Hey! who did that!?"

Jack looked down, it was spybot. Jack leaned down and spoke to him in an agitated tone "Hey! Where have you been!? Can't you see we got important work to do? What are you doing crawling out of my coat like that?!Don't you realize it's dangerous out here?!"

The spybot says nothing

"Keeping quiet huh? Don't blame me when some eagle swoops in and takes you thinking you're some delicious snack, or did you forget what happened last time?! I tell you...what kind of idiot just forgets things like that?" Jack said, annoyed at his little spybot

the spybot said nothing, but it did bring up a hologram of Jack just flying off without him.

Jack blinked at it, silently. "......hmmm..How do I know you didn't make that up?"

The spybot starts displaying timestamps, internal data codes, and even replays a message from Jack himself stating "All images and footage property of THE Jack Spicer, anything within these images or footage that look like somebody else's house,temple, or shower room is purely coincidental and anyone who says otherwise can eat it! Also said images and or footage cannot be altered without the express knowledge and voice recognition password of me, Jack Spicer, so don't try dweebs"

Jack stayed silent. "....You can't prove that's me"

Spybot suddenly plays back Jack's words "You can't prove that's me" in which a message comes from the spybot "Voice recognition software recognizes voice as "Jack Spicer", Confirmed to match previous voiceprints"
The spybot then replays the message "What kind of idiot just forgets things like that" a couple of times

Jack sighs, puffing up his cheeks in frustration "Fine...whatever!......smartmouth..I should have just made it so you could talk so I could tell you to shut up!"

the Spybot just shrugs it's spider legs

Jack took a moment to collect his thoughts, to be shown up by his "Past self", it was humiliating

Jack looked down to spybot. "Ok, so..you've at least been doing your job right? Because I need schematics of the entire castle and routes to it's basement! Pronto!"

Spybot lit up, releasing a large hologram of the castle's interior. Including red lined routes to it's basement. And a seemingly secret wall...Behind it had to be the Alicorn Amulet

"Spybot! Give me the intel on that wall! What's behind it? How do I get it to open!?" Jack commanded

More blueprints and schematics showed up. It seemed a simple mechanism by pulling a book out labeled "Friendship is Magic". Then a visual of the room itself was presented. With the Amulet in the dead center on a pedestal. Jack smile grew wide as he stared at it "And Bingo was his name-o"

Without any subtly or modesty. Jack and his robots flew down to the front doors itself and kicked them open. He wanted to make a grand evil entrance of pure intimidation. To remind Princess Twilight who the future ruler was going to be. "YO HEY, JACK IS BACK AND HE BROUGHT HIS POSSE! SO EITHER GET BLASTED OR BOW DOWN TO YOUR FUTURE BOY EMPEROR!"

All there was was a whooshy wind noise from the opening of the door. The castle itself was silent."....ok...let's try the next room..Jackbots, Assault mode!"

The jackbots came out of their stealth, ready for a fight as he passed by the main room with the seven seats and large table. He kicked in the next door and restated "YO HEY, JACK IS BACK AND HE BROUGHT HIS POSSE! SO EITHER GET BLASTED OR BOW DOWN TO YOUR FUTURE BOY EMPEROR!"

Empty Hallway

"u-ugh...ok...fine..I'll just save it when I actually see her, come on Jackbots, we have an amulet to steal." Jack walked forward, heading to the doors that led to the basement when suddenly a shrillish high voice spoke from behind

"SEE RARITY! TOLD YA THERE WAS SOMEPONY YELLING SOMETHING ABOUT POSSUMS AND TEMPURA!"

Jack yelped in surprise and turned, before him was a white and pink horse. One of beauty, and one of puffy cotton candy "where what!? Where did you two come from?!"

The Pink one pointed from behind her to the main room "We came from that door to the east wing, you're in the west wing...and yet the castle can't fly despite having both wings! What's up with that huh?"

"Pinkie, darling, I think we have more daunting things to deal with at the moment. Such as de...OH MY WORD?! THAT'S IMPOSSIBLE?!" The white one cried out, eyeing Jack up and down from her position, taking in his entire visage.

Impossible? Jack took this as a sign of his evil and grinned "Yeah, I know. You can't help but look at my awesome looks and realize how impossible it is to look this good while still being sooooo bad"

"That's not it! It's the fact that you have a black ensemble and STILL somehow look so icky and tacky!" The white one was completely disgusted with his form.

"Hey! This is top of the line clothes for the evil boy genius on the go! What would you know about style?! You stupid horse!" Jack retorted

Rarity eye twitched as anger bubbled inside of her "Did you just imply that I don't know style?"

The Pink one suddenly appeared next to Jack and whispered in his ears "Oh boy, now yer gonna get it. I'd feel sorry for ya. But you're that evil Jack Spicer we heard about. But just to show you no hard feelings before we whoop ya, Here's a pin!.....I guess I'll feel a little sorry actually, we could have mighta been friends,seeya!" The pink one slapped a pin onto Jack's coat with the words "Always stay smiling" on it, then slinked back to the white one's side.

Jack got startled at the pink horse's teleporting like movements and threw the pin off immediately "geez..that was creepy..anyway. hehe" he smirked "I'm not implying it, I'm downright saying that you don't know Jack!...haha" he shouldered one of his Jackbots "See what I did there?"

The Pink one giggled as well. Jack taking notice "see, even she gets it. And I don't even know her!"

Suddenly the white one gave the Pink one a mean look, causing her to smile nervously, then the white one shifted her attention to Jack once again. "Ohhhh! You're going to get it. Hurting one of my best friends and questioning, OF ALL PONIES, MY TASTE IN FASHION?! YOU'RE GOING DOWN!"

"Oh no, I'm so scared. Go ahead horse breath, do your worst!" Jack readied his hands to grab the reversing mirror "I'll stand right here! Come on"

The white one's horn began to glow. Jack readied himself for a magical blast, but instead one of his bots started to move out of line slowly towards the two horses "Hey! What are you doing?! Get back in rank!"

The white one smirked "I'm afraid, darling, that your little machine friend is going to be out of order. I'll be generous and give you a chance. Either give up now, or SUFFER THE WRATH OF RARITY!" Her eyes flared up.

The Pink one started to write something down, stating to herself "Note to self, never EVER make fun of Rarity's fashion sense after her having anger fits of Twilight being hurt and Spike being kidnapped"

Rarity turned to the Pink one "Don't mention Spike, Pinkie. I don't want to think about that now...I'd rather think about him when I have this little ruffian in a chair while I personally interrogate him on where MY LITTLE SPIKEY..WIKEY..IS, SO HE KNOWS HOW FURIOUS I CAN TRULY BE!" Her eyes suddenly became alit with flames as the robot shook and it's bolts ripped off and floated towards Rarity.

Jack was getting squeamish "oh...boy...what's with h- HEY WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO MY JACKBOT!?" He said as he noticed it falling apart

"Oh nothing. I'd rather show you first hand that not only can I put beautiful pieces of art together. BUT I CAN ALSO TEAR UGLY,TACKY, UNCOUTH TRASH APART!" Rarity said in a rage. It seemed she had been angry all day about the very real threat of Jack Spicer and all the terrible things she heard about him. What he did to Twilight, and all the horrible things he possibly did to Spike. It was enough to drive a girl mad...well that and being told you weren't good at fashion.

The Jackbot fully fell apart, then, with her magic. She aimed it's bolts back at Jack and the Jackbots. Jack let out a silent "..mommy" and quickly ducked into a turn in the hallway as another of his Jackbots got shot up enough to stop functioning. He only had four left.

"AHHH, I THINK THATS AN ACTUAL DEMON HORSE! QUICK! JACKBOTS! ATTACK!" Jack said as he crawled under a small table.

Two Jackbots rushed at them first. And although Rarity was able to at least slow one down while she pulled it apart. She wasn't able to stop the other. Which was about to smash her in the face. She lost her focus on the other robot and covered her face. Squealing in fear as she put her forelegs on her face to cover it as she closed her eyes. Suddenly she didn't seem so tough.

A large SMASH AND CLANK is heard.

Rarity opens her eyes, only to see the robot from the front line with an anvil on it's head, spurting and twitching as the other one behind it crashed behind it.

Rarity turned to her side, to see the Pink one with a string in her hoof, reaching to the ceiling. She was smiling "Gee, that was a close one Rarity! Good Thing ole Pinkie Pie got your back huh?"

Jack just stared, confused and astonished "WHERE DID THAT EVEN COME FROM?!"

Rarity just looked up at the ceiling, then at the anvil "P-Pinkie,d-dear...d-did you boobytrap the castle?"

Pinkie nodded "Yup! Twilight did say while she was scouting with Rainbow and Fluttershy that we should stay vigilant in case Jack showed up. So I took the extra precaution of making sure we were ready! Pretty smart huh?"

Rarity poked at the disabled robot. "I don't think this is entirely safe"

Pinkie giggled "That's because it isn't" she pulled a second string "this is a safe!"

Suddenly a safe fell from the ceiling, crushing the second Jackbot and taking it out of commission.

Jack yelled out "OH COME ON! THAT JUST SEEMED SET UP FOR A PUN! THAT'S JUST STUPID! JACKBOTS...GET THEM, GET THEM! COME ON ALREADY!"

It didn't take long. But the team up of Pinkie and Rarity, which they used some sort of knitting and pie manuever that Jack couldn’t quite understand, made short work of the second to last Jackbot.as the last one made a cowardly beeline in the other direction.

After a well deserved high five, They go to pluck Jack from his hidey hole. But the moment they look...

"Hey, where'd he go?!

Jack had scurried off, in fact. While the fight was going on. He had made a beeline towards the basement. and had already managed to open the secret bookcase, he was practically salivating at this point "oh baby..s-so close!"

Jack saw it, in the middle of the purple plain looking hidden chamber was the Alicorn Amulet, sitting on a pedestal. He ran towards it and placed his hand on it. "FINALLY! FINALLY EVERYTHING IS GOING MY WAY FOR ONCE! HAHAHA...HA..ha..huh?"

He looked at his hand, right next to it was an orange hoof.

"Where ya think yer going with that, pardner?"

Chapter 11 - Xiaolin Showdown! Battle of the Jacks!

Jack shifts his eyes from the amulet to where the hoof's owner was.

It was an orange horse with a long blonde mane put up in a ponytail, she had a cowboy hat. "You best be thinking of givin' up now, unless you wanna lose that hand. ya hear?"

Jack was still surprised of her very presence "Where did you even come from? I didn't see any one of you nimrods behind me!"

The orange horse smirked at him "That's because I've been waiting in here, itchin for a fight with some varmint named Jack Spicer. Twilight was right in guessin you'd sneak in here, you really are a bonafide snake in the grass."

Jack smirked "You know it, horseface!" he took notice that this horse had no horn, nor did she have any wings. one on one, he was sure he could take her. "Let go of the amulet already! Or I'll turn you into glue!"

Applejack held the amulet down with her hoof, Jack couldn't get it out of her hoof like grip. "Just try it"

"grrr" There was only one other alternative he had, an alternative he has been familiar with a hundred times over "Thats it! I CHALLENGE YOU TO A XIAOLIN SHOWDOWN!"

the orange horse squinted at Jack "a Xia-loins what now?"

Jack facepalmed with his free hand "Are you kidding me? You've never heard of a Xiaolin showdown before? You horses really are dumb."

The orange horse huffed at him "I may not know what a Xooloin is, but a showdown? That's something a gal like me can bite her teeth into. I accept!"

"Ha! You really don't know what you're getting into here lady! hehe..The name of the game is Tarpit-fall! First to fall off the road loses! I wager my Monkey Staff against your......your....what Shen Gong Wu do you have anyway?" Jack was itching to get the showdown going. He had a world to rule and he didn't want to waste time.

"Shen Gong What?! Ya better start making sense before I knock some into ya!" The orange horse was getting confused, and was ready to just pound him right there, thinking he was just stalling for time at this point.

Jack just rubbed his chin, he was finally beginning to realize how clueless these horses really were. Still, he already made the challenge, and he wanted to go through with it since he felt he could get an easy win. "No Shen Gong Wu huh? Hold on, let me consult the rulebook.....that I totally DID steal!"

He actually didn't, he tried to steal it from Dojo at a point before. but Dojo bit his finger. Forcing him to later on buy his own copy...from somewhere...FROM LANDS UNKNOWN.

He quickly pulled it from his coat and sifted through the pages. As this was going on. The amulet itself started to glow. The orange horse at this point wanted no more of this. And tried taking the amulet from his grip. But it seemed some unnatural force was keeping it in place.

"Ahh here we go! If a showdown is called and one of the combatants lacks a Shen Gong Wu. Then the combatant with a Shen Gong Wu can force a showdown by forcible wager on the opponent. Taking any item in their possession of the Shen Gong Wu holder's choice upon winning the showdown" Jack closed the book and gave her an evil smile "I think I'll take your hat."

"My hat?! Listen here, the only wagering that's gonna be going on is guessin how many teeth I can knock right out of ya! What would a sorry sidewinder like you want with my hat anyway?" The orange horse growled at him, her nose actually letting out steam from both nostrils at the mere thought of Jack having her hat.

"Oh nothing, just tear it a million pieces in front of you and take a picture of your misery, thats all. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHA!" Jack laughed maliciously

"Why you low down dirty...GRAGH!" The orange horse tried to lift her hoof off the amulet to smash Jack in the face. But couldn't. "What's goin on here?! What did ya do?"

Jack just smirked at her while the Alicorn Amulet flew up, out of hand and hoof ,and span about. Disappearing as the walls and floor of the castle started to crumble.

the orange horse could move her hoof, but she was too busy looking around and trying to stay on guard as everything fell apart around her. The walls, the ceiling. It just started falling apart and vanishing in thin air as it made way to a bright sunny sky, and a vast meadow with two hills visible. A road appearing under her and Jack, it's width about seven feet and it's length seemingly endless. The road just stretched,both ways, making distance between her and Jack. And while Jack just stood his position staring at her, The orange horse was looking around at all sides "WHAT IN THE HAY DID YA DO?!"

"HEY APPLEJACK!" Said a shrill high voice "CHECK OUT THIS PLACE! ISN'T IT PRETTY?!"

The orange horse, revealed as Applejack. Looked to where the voice came from. Pinkie Pie was waving from one of the hills. Rarity was also there, having a freak out moment on what the heck just happened.

"PINKIE PIE, DID YA DO THIS?!" Applejack yelled, thinking Pinkie Pie's oblivious attitude may have had something to do with this.

Pinkie Pie shrugged "Dunno! I think I had a dream about this once, do you think we all just jumped inside my head? HEY! MAYBE WE CAN HAVE A PARTY?!"

Applejack planted her hoof to her face and sighed "Pinkie, I don't...I don't think we're in yer dream."

Meanwhile, Jack looked around, and noticed on a second hill. a surviving Jackbot. It looked a little banged up. "Oh hey! you survived...hey wait..." He looked at Pinkie and Rarity. "WHY AREN'T THEY BANGED UP AND BEGGING FOR MERCY!"

The Jackbot shrugged

"......you ran away didn't you?" Jack started rubbing his forehead.

The Jackbot slumped in shame

"... What is this crazy world coming too when you can't even BUILD good help these days. It really looks like I gotta do this myself"

Applejack turned his attention towards Jack "You musta did this! How in the hay are ya doin all this?!"

Jack just made insulting faces at her "Hur durrr, why am I so dummmbb. hey ya'll, look at me, I'm from the dumb ole texas. I can only count ta three and get up to my Bs in muh ABCs." Jack chortled "Why are you texans always so dumb? I bet you think quarterbacks are actual refunds, HAHAHAHAHA!"

Applejack's face turned red with fury, she didn't know what a texan was, but it had to be some sort of insult "That's IT! I HOPE YER READY TO FIND A NEW HIDE BECAUSE I'M GONNA TAN IT TO THE POINT YER OWN MOMMA WON'T RECOGNIZE YA!"

Applejack rushed at Jack, but immediately lost her footing as the road began to shake and rumble. The entire meadow started to collapse and sink into a gigantic endless tarpit. The only things left standing was the hills with the pony and robot bystanders, and the road, which shook violently and began to bend.

Applejack again had gotten a near fright when she nearly ran right off the now curved road and stood her ground, looking at around as the shaking began to slow.

Jack just stood there, he could see the inexperience in Applejack. At the same time he was thinking about how much of a wasted name that was. "hrmm..Applejack....that's a better name than Colby Jack. Maybe I can name Applegroom that. She already has apple in her name....It's a good thing these two aren't related. Oh boy, who knows what would happen then huh?! haha" Jack thought internally.

The moment the shaking stopped, Jack let out a mighty cry of "Gong Yi Tanpai!" and immediately rushed Applejack.

Applejack had gotten her balance from the unusual shaking of the unknown world she found herself in. But, the moment she turned to face Jack she was instead met with a fist right into her face.

Jack just let out karate grunts as he let her have it with another hook, comboing it into a upwards kick, launching Applejack high enough for him to lunge his foot into her stomach. Hard enough to send her flying forward. Spinning as she hit the ground and coming to rest on her stomach, facing Jack. Pinkie and Rarity were gasping while the Jackbot waved a little black flag with a white "J" on it

Jack went running up to her, ready to punt her off the side of the road into the tarpit "HYYYAHHHHHHH!"

Jack let's out the mightiest kick he ever could to knock Applejack into the pit. But suddenly, his foot was stopped.
"Hey! What gives?" Jack said in surprise

He looked down, his foot was blocked by Applejack's right foreleg, yet she still looked like she was downed. Then she started to speak "Ya know, when I first saw ya. I was wonderin' how anypony could have skin paler than a rabbit" Suddenly, she looked up at him while she shoved his foot away, making him step back "Now I know it's cuz ya hit like one!"

Suddenly Pinkie jumped with celebration "OH BOY! SOMEPONY GET A WATER HOSE, BECAUSE THAT WAS ONE SICK BURN!"

Rarity pushed Pinkie away, not only used to the setting by now, But getting excited at the comeback Applejack is about to make "GET HIM! MAKE HIM PAY FOR WHAT HE DID TO MY SPIKEYWIKEY! MAKE HIM BURN FOR WEARING SUCH A TACKY OUTFIT!"

Jack took another step back in surprise. Then gave Applejack a scowl "Great, the one person who can actually make a snappy comeback and it had to be a dumb horse! How did you block my attack anyway!? I had you down on the ground!"

Applejack spat to the side and then stood battle ready, staring directly into Jack's eyes "As I said, ya hit like a rabbit! or would ya'll prefer filly? Either one is fine by me, because I'm gonna turn ya into a puddle in a minute"

Jack stopped to think for a moment. "Filly?" he blinked "Filly....filly...hrn" He pulled out a dictionary from his coat to look up the word, then grew angry and tossed it away "A GIRL HORSE?! REALLY?! THAT'S IT! YOU'RE GOING DOWN! NOBODY CALLS ME A LITTLE GIRL AND GETS AWAY WITH IT!"

Jack rushed Applejack in a blind rage and started a flurry of punches and kicks with reckless abandon

Applejack merely had to tilt her head or jump to the side to dodge every single one. Given her strength and athletic abilities, someone like Jack was nothing to her.

"STOP DODGING..YOU..STUPID..HORSE..RAGH!" Jack roared as he lunged his fastest strongest punch at her, but it was too much. He went far forward enough with his missed hit for her not only to dodge it. But to get behind him and give him a quick buck to the back. Sending him to the ground

"Yeehaw!" Applejack cried out in victory

Jack rolled on the ground and got a face full of dirt, he quickly got up and ran back at her. Only to be easily tripped as he fell forward flat on his face

"Maybe ya'll should just name yerself Joke instead of Jack. Because if this keeps up I might just bust a gut laughin" Applejack snickered

Jack slowly got up, and spit the dirt out of his mouth. "blagh..ugh..nngh..." his face suddenly became red "I'M NOT GOING TO GET SHOWN UP BY A...OW MY FOOT!" As he was yelling, Applejack quickly rushed up to him and smashed his feet with both her forelegs.

"Oh sorry pardner" Applejack gave a sincere apology as she suddenly did a hoofstand, going straight up and bending backwards enough to catch Jack's face between her thighs. "I actually meant DO THIS!" Applejack managed to do a seemingly impossible hop with her forelegs and used her clenched thighs and momentum to fling Jack forward, sending him rolling enough to be near one of the edges of the road.

Rarity jumped in a hurrah "GOOD JOB DARLING! YOU DID IT!"

Pinkie waved her own little flag, with an apple on it "WOO! YOU WON APPLEJACK! WAY TO GO! VICTORY PARTY AT MY PLACE!"

Applejack started to walk up to Jack as she looked to her friends "Simmer down you two, I think I gotta toss him down into that there pit to win this thing. Should be easy enough."

Jack was just laying there, Applejack took the opportunity to finish the job. But the moment she reached her hoof out, Jack suddenly reached into his coat for one of his Shen Gong Wu. Grabbing the Monkey Staff, he called out it's name. Releasing a flash of light and making Applejack step back

"WHAT IN THE WORLD?!" Applejack had no idea what was going on

Jack had turned into a monkey, Rarity feeling nauseated at the sight of him "Oh no, he somehow got even worse.."

Jack angrily turned to her and pointed with anger "HEY! DON'T GET UPSET AT ME THAT I COULD PULL THIS LOOK OFF EVEN AS A MONKEY! I'M JACK BABY! MASTER OF THE WORLD! KING OF STYLISH GOOD LOOKS!"

Pinkie quickly let out her own opinion "I sort of agree, he looks kind of cute now!"

Jack smirked "Finally...someone gets it! See, a true visionary!"

"CAN I KEEP YOU AS A PET?! I CAN SHOW YOU OFF TO GUMMY AND SHOW GUMMY TO YOU AND WE CAN HAVE A BIG OLE PARTY!"

Jack still smiling "hey that sounds pr...wait" He suddenly gave her an angry look "I'M NOT A PET! GRRR! EEK EKK OOK!"

Rarity just gave him a smug smile "You're right, that would be putting you on my pet cat Opal's level. And you're nowhere near that level"

"OH MAN! SOMEONE GET CLOUDSDALE TO MAKE A GIANT RAINCLOUD BECAUSE I THINK EQUESTRIA JUST BURST INTO FLAMES!" Pinkie screamed out.

Rarity chuckled to herself "Well, even a lady can make a "sick burn" once in awhile"

Jack started screeching and hopping around in rage "THAT'S IT! ONCE I'M DONE WITH THIS MOUTH BREATHER, YOU TWO ARE NEXT!" He turned to Applejack "TIME FOR ROUND TWO! I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOU CRY WHEN I TEAR THAT HAT OF YOURS TO TINY..LITTLE..PIECES!"

"Quit yer yappin and come at me already!" Applejack gave him a confident, prideful smile.

"FINE! GET READY! BECAUSE HERE COMES JACK!" Jack screeched as he rushed Applejack with a flurry of punches and kicks.

He was definitely faster this time. Applejack was still dodging, but she was having a hard time finding an opening.

Jack tries jumping up in the air and attempts to drop kick Applejack

Applejack quickly dodges to the side, and readies to strike at Jack

The moment she goes to kick him, he does a short hop. Dodging her buck as he lands on his hand and performs a spin kick right into her body. Causing her to stagger backwards.

Jack jumped back to his feet and pounded his chest "OH YEAH! TAKE THAT! YOU AIN'T GOT NO GAME!"

Applejack just silently turned her head to the side to spit, and then lowered her hat. Her eyes fixated on Jack as she rushed him. She was sure she could hit him if she went aggressive, but he was suddenly able to dodge her in his new form

"HAHAHA! You ain't got nothing! Nothing! EEK! EEK!" Jack said in an arrogant tone

Applejack, feeling enraged, turns to buck him in the face. But he ducks it and punches her right in the gut, Making her groan and fall back. "ngh..That smarts"

"Oh careful now" Jack taunted "The word "smart" is a little too high a word for a country bumpkin like you to even comprehend. HAHAHA! YOU'RE GOING DOWN NOW!"

Jack went for a heavy lunge with his fist. But Applejack was ready this time. She swiftly dodges it and kicks Jack in the back. But it wasn't enough to make him fall. He simply spins in the air, catches his landing with his hands, and pushes himself back into Applejack's face with a flying kick. Sending her to the ground.

Applejack rolls to the ground and manages to bounce herself back to her hooves. But she was wounded. She wiped her face and gave Jack a cold silent stare. She wasn't about to lose to him. She couldn't.

"Can't you just accept that you've lost already? or do you just want me to pound you into apple jam? Actually, don't answer that. I like the second choice!" Jack snickered as he rushed her again.

Applejack just stood at the ready, staying focused. Jack's attacks were more rapid than ever. But Applejack managed to stand her ground. Dodging some hits as a few others managed to land. She couldn’t find an opening. And so just braced herself the best she could.

"Ok! This is getting boring! Time to finish you off!" Jack reeled up his fist, and went for one final super monkey punch. His fist landed square into Applejack's cheek. "BLAMMO!"

But something was wrong. Although his fist connected, his punch didn't phase her. Applejack's head only turned halfway from the hit. She then began to slowly look at Jack, his fist still at her cheek as it got pushed back as she turned.

Jack was astonished "What the...how are you...WHAT?!"

Applejack forced her head through Jack's force and threw his hand back. Causing him to tumble backwards. Before he could get his footing. Applejack went for a heavy buck to the face.

But Jack jumped to dodge it. Sadly, he wasn't able to jump quick enough. Making Applejack's target accidentally switch to.....his crotch.

"AHHHHHHHHHHHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!" Jack let out one of the girliest screeches he ever let out as everyone cringed. Applejack,Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and even the Jackbot.

"I...I wouldn't even wish that on Tirek.." Rarity said under her breath.

Jack couldn't say a word, he was dragging himself across the floor, holding on to his little jacks.

Applejack just smiled. She finally had the win. She walked up to him, and silently rolled him off the road with a swift kick.

Jack only screeched, unable to even grab onto the ledge as he fell.

"WOOHOO! YOU DID IT APPLEJACK! NOOOOW WE CAN PARTY AT MY PLACE! EVEN THE SCARY ROBOT IS INVITED! FUN FOR EVERYPONY!" Pinkie Pie jumped in excitement.

Rarity smiled at the situation, happy Applejack won. "I must admit, that was rather exciting"

Applejack just flipped her hat up slightly and looked to the sky "Yeah, but fellas.we still kinda don't know where we are. How do we get back?"

Pinkie Pie started to look around and frowned "I dunno...we're kind of stuck on this hill."

Rarity looked down at the tar "....I..didn't even realize...I'd really rather not risk jumping to that road...should we just wait for Twilight to find us?"

Applejack just started to rub her chin with her hoof and sat down on the road "hmmmm, I'm tryin' to figure out if we're even in Equestria anymore. I thought I was supposed to win somethin' for beating that low down, no good Jack Spicer!"

"Man. You really sound like a guy I know" A voice said from behind

Pinkie Pie shrieked "APPLEJACK, LOOK OUT!"

Jack was slowly rising up from the side of the road. A cruel smile on his face as the blades of his helipack span to keep him airborne. He had the Monkey Staff in his hands like a baseball bat.

Applejack swung her head to look behind herself "whu..OMPH"

With a huge swing of the staff. Jack hits Applejack square in the face with a sucker hit she didn’t see coming.

The hit was hard enough to send Applejack flying to the side, sending her off the road and into the pit.

At that point. Jack was stunned as the area began to shift once more.

"I..I won? I won!?" Suddenly, before anyone could do anything. The castle suddenly reformed as Jack found himself back in the basement hidden room with a stunned, hatless Applejack. The Alicorn amulet and Applejack's hat in his hands. "I ACTUALLY DID IT! HOLY JACK ON A JACK JACK! I DID IT! HAHAHAHA!"

The showdown was over, Jack had actually managed to win.

Chapter 12 - The Power of the Alicorn Amulet

Jack stood victorious over his now hatless foe.

In one hand, his main prize, the Alicorn Amulet. In the other, a cowboy hat. His path to world domination finally came close to it's end.

He couldn't help but laugh a sinister laugh as he threw his hands in the air and gloated "YES! FINALLY! EVERYTHING IS GOING MY WAY FOR ONCE! I'LL BE RULING THIS PLACE BY TOMORROW! BOW BEFORE ME HORSE SCUM! FOR I AM JACK! SO EAT IT!! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"

Applejack, coming to her senses from the shape shifting world and her fall, notices Jack. He was laughing nonstop. Her eyes then became fixated on her hat. "you cheatin son of a.." She immediately rushed at him and did a 180 hop "Want somepony to eat somethin?! THEN WHY DON'T YA EAT THIS INSTEAD!"

"HAHAHAHA..ha..huAGH!" Jack, lost in his own victorious arrogance, failed to notice that his opponent was still very much capable of slamming his face with her hindlegs.

He went flying out of the room, screaming in agony as he lost his grip on the hat. Applejack catching it on her head and adjusting it with her hoof.

"AHHHHHHHHHHHHH" Jack screamed right into the next room, flying right into the steps upwards to the west wing hallway. Crashing into the first few steps and sliding down ".....Granny, I don't want to wear the diaper today..I can poopy all by myself" Jack said in a daze as he planted his face on the floor.

A voice came from behind him, happyish and bubbly "Oh boy! They weren't kidding about the first steps being a real doozy! Hehehe"

Upon hearing the voice, Jack slowly stood up and shook his head to clear it. Then turned around. Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and his Jackbot were in the room, with Applejack stepping out of the hidden chamber to meet them.

Jack rubbed his face as he pointed at Applejack in anger "HEY! THAT'S CHEATING! GIVE ME BACK MY HAT!"

Applejack just stared at him, getting steamed that she'd be accused of such a thing "Cheating?! I wouldn't go around calling anypony a cheater with the dirty tricks you pull! That's probably how ya pulled a fast one on Twi. How about ya just tell us where ya got Spike stashed and maybe we won't beat on ya so hard!"

"Yeah, It's us four versus you! You are going down mister!" Pinkie added

"Four?" Jack was confused and started counting, pointing a finger at Applejack "one" to Rarity "Two" To Pinkie"Three" To the Jackbot "Fo-HEY WAIT A MINUTE! JACKBOT, GET OVER HERE, NOW!"

The Jackbot looked around, it seemed to be a little confused, but it rushed over to his side when it realized it was on the wrong side.

"WAIT! WHERE YA GOING!? I THOUGHT WE WERE GONNA HAVE A PARTY LATER!" Pinkie reached her hoof out to the Jackbot. Saddened that it had left their side.

Jack snickered "A lame party with you dweebs? Please, as if my Ja...HEY, GET BACK HERE!" The Jackbot was trying to sneak back to Pinkie's side, but swiftly went back to Jack's the moment he yelled at him.

"Give it up Jack, we still outnumber ya. And I'm ready to give ya a straight up whuppin this time." Applejack started to approach him slowly, Rarity and Pinkie taking to her side.

"Pardon my recent violent tendencies, but I'd rather we just use him as a pin cushion until he tells us what we want to know" Rarity said, giving him a dagger stare.

Jack went into a battle pose "You want some of this? You think I'm scared of you three? I'll have you know that I am a master in the martial art of Ta-JACKBOT FLASH BOMB NOW!" Jack suddenly yells as he puts on his goggles.

The Jackbot releases a large round sphere into the air that explodes. Releasing a gigantic flashbang, blinding and deafening the ponies.

"What happened!"Rarity said as she stepped backwards, rubbing her eyes

"What was that!?" Applejack yelled

"Wow! Now that's going out with a bang! I can't hear a thing!" Pinkie said, giggling.

Finally, their senses came back to them. But Jack had managed to escape.

"Gosh darn it! The little weasel vamoosed!" Applejack said as she rubbed her eyes

"I can't believe such an uncouth, unrefined,...thing, can exist. Even Discord has better etiquette than that Jack!"

Pinkie however said nothing, she was holding an object in her hooves, a strange mirror. She then held it up to Rarity "Hey Rarity! Did you drop this? It looks pretty fancy!"

Rarity took a look at it "No Pinkie. Don't you realize we have more pressing matters at hand?"

"Well yeah but. I didn't want you to freak out over dropping something. Is it yours Applejack?" She held it up to her

Applejack knew she didn't bring any mirrors with her. And upon a quick inspection, knew Twilight didn't have any kind of mirror like that. "Hold on there sugarcube, Pinkie might be on to somethin. This mirror ain't mine and I don't think Twi has one this funny lookin.."

Rarity turned around to take a closer inspection, since it caught Applejack's interest "Now that you mention it, I've been around this castle many times myself to marvel at it's beauty...and I've never seen this mirror before. You don't think it belongs to that Jack Spicer...Do you?"

"If it does, it might be our first clue to gettin' Spike back....hmm...Pinkie, can ya hang back while me and Rarity see if we can track down Jack?" Applejack said

Pinkie whined "Awww! but I wanna help too!"

Applejack tried to be quick but sincere"I know ya do sugarcube. But if there's even a chance to catch him, we gotta go now! And somepony needs to stay here to tell Twi everything that happened...and ya sorta need to disarm all your booby traps. they could very well hurt somepony."

Pinkie giggled meekly "oh right, hehe..I should do that. Ok!" Pinkie saluted to Applejack "You can count on me! Goodluck everypony!"

Applejack nodded and turned to run back upstairs "Come on Rarity, Lesse if we can catch that snake in the grass!"

Unfortunately for them, Jack was already long gone and heading back to his base. He was scowling at his Jackbot "A Party?! You were going to leave me for a party!? WHAT DOES A PARTY HAVE THAT I DON'T HAVE?!"

The Jackbot responded in a robotic voice "zzt...Cake"

"CAKE?! CAKE?! YOU CAN'T EVEN EAT CAKE!" Jack furiously yelled at him

The Jackbot slumped "awwww...."

Jack facepalmed "Seriously, there's something about this world that's just turns people...AND ROBOTS..into some cake eating, horse loving weirdos...oh well" Jack held up the amulet to his face "I got what I came for" he said, as an evil smile formed on his face.

Jack reached the abandoned castle and landed with his Jackbot at his side, kicking open the main doors, his arms stretched wide "JACKIE'S HOME!"
His voice echoed through the empty foyer ".....This place is pretty lonely, I bet if Wuya was around she'd probably be happy with me for once. Then she'd try to worm her way to getting her body back, and then I'd tell her no as I blast her to bits." Jack sighed "I miss Wuya"

Jack walked inside to the throne room, he marveled at the sight of parts,scrap, and metal littering it's floor that his scavengers had brought back. More than enough to convert the castle into an actual base. "haha! Oh man, Jack central over here! Yeah baby! I'm finally on top and nobody can stop me! Now where did I leave that blubbering reptile? I wanna try this thing out!"

As Jack tried to remember where he left Spike, he started to happen upon not just piles of scrap. But Piles of gems as well. Where did they come from? as he continued his exploration. He happened upon a voice behind some of the piles.

"Wow. He really is that kind of guy huh?" That voice was Spike

But then a robotic voice can be heard "Yes, besides having episodes, crying about his mother. He is also very rude and uncaring. Despite me being Scavenger bot number two. He just calls me Jackbot, not even with a number designation. Although I would follow him to the depths of the earth and back, morale is always low."

"Geez, I didn't realize being one of his goons was so rough. Puts my entire life into perspective. Do you dream about anything?" Spike asked to the robotic voice

"No, but if I did. It would be about me being a pretty pink princess sheep and ruling my land with a heart of gold....and blasting my enemies into dust...Sadly I am a scavenger bot. So I am without true rank or weaponry...maybe one day I can at least be an attack Jackbot and be destroyed in glorious battle so that my robotic soul can achieve this dream.." Said the robotic voice, monotone in its speech

"Dream big dude, Dream big" Said Spike

Jack finally found the source of the voices and found Spike hugging one of his scavenger bots through the net "WHAT ARE YOU DOING?! ARE YOU HUGGING HIM?!"

Suddenly the Jackbot stopped hugging as its head spun around in panic "Master. What are you doing here."

"I LIVE HERE METALHEAD! I THINK THE BETTER QUESTION IS WHY...ARE YOU CRYING?! ARE YOU...HOW ARE YOU EVEN DOING THAT?!"" Jack was astonished

"Analysis shows no conclusive answer. But If I was to guess, it would be the sadness of not being a princess and destroying my enemies" Said the Jackbot scavenger

Jack took a moment to absorb the situation, he didn't have time for this. He wanted to try out his new toy "I don't even..look! I Don't have time for this! Go to your room until after I'm done blasting this pipsqueak!" Jack pointed to the doors.

"But master..I do not have a room" The Jackbot then turned to Spike "See? He even sends me into a room that does not exist"

"Don't worry about it man, it'll be ok one day" Spike waved to the bot

"I can't believe this. IS EVERYBODY GOING NUTS OR IS IT JUST ME? AM I DREAMING? I mean, I have this right here!" Jack holds up the Alicorn Amulet "but suddenly everything is just loopy. Talking horses, my own jackbots being weird, and Wuya just blowing up. Just pinch me already so I can wake up."

"Orders received" The Jackbot said as he pinched Jack's arm with brutal force, causing him to yelp, and even cry a little

"OWWWW! WAHH..NGH....ngh..DON'T DO THAT! I'M REALLY TENDER RIGHT NOW! I ALREADY KNOW I'M NOT DREAMING!" he began to give a small rub towards his crotch, it was still sore from Applejack’s buck "...trust me...ugh..I really know, anyway, JUST GET OUT OF HERE!"

The Jackbot complied, and left Jack to his devices. Leaving him and Spike alone.

"I can't believe you got the Alicorn Amulet! What, was nopony there or something?" Spike said, his depression from earlier a distant memory.

"No! a couple of your dumb friends were there. But I sure took care of them! But the buttkicking they got ain't gonna be nothing to the pain you're gonna feel!" Jack chuckled evilly at Spike, asserting his dominance

"Yeah...I doubt that" Spike crossed his arms in doubt

"Doubt? What? Are you calling me a liar! How would you know what happened." Jack snapped back

"Well, I know a couple of things now actually.Like how you wet the bed" Spike stifled a chuckle

"WHAT?! WHO TOLD....ha! whatever, I don't even do that anymore. It's been three whole days since the last time that happened!" Jack rubbed his nose, feeling triumphant

"yeah sure...anyway, I doubt you did any "buttkicking". Your clothes are messed up, you got a lot of lumps, and I think those hoof marks are Applejacks. Man, you really took a beating" he chuckled "I bet you just managed to get that amulet because you cheated and then ran away using...I dunno..a flash bomb or something"

"NO I DIDN'T!" Jack retorted

Spike just gave him a smug stare

"FINE! SO MAYBE I DID!" Jack suddenly smiled at him as he held the Alicorn amulet forward "laugh it up dragonboy! Because it's gonna be the last time you laugh at the GREAT and POWERFUL JACK SPICER! ALICORN AMULET!" Jack aimed the amulet directly at Spike, But spike just stood there, with the same smug stare. Not even blinking.

"HAHHAA...hey! What gives! ALICORN AMULET!" Jack tries saying the name again, but nothing happened. "ALICORNAMULETALICORNAMULETALICORNAMULETALICORNAMULET!"

Jack kept yelling it at the Amulet until he began to tire himself out, sweating and panting "Ali-alicor....alicor.....grrr..WHATS WRONG WITH THIS THING?! You, Dragonbreath! What's going on?!"

Spike shrugged "I don't know, why don't you go ask your dollie. it might know, HAHAHAHA" Spike started to bust a gut "I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU CAN'T EVEN FIGURE OUT HOW TO USE AN AMULET! HAHAHA! GREAT AND POWERFUL?!? COMPARED TO WHO?! TRIXIE!? THATS A GOOD ONE! IT REALLY IS! SHE'S SOMEHOW BETTER THAN YOU! HAHAHAHA!"

"H-hey stop...STOP LAUGHING..ngh...AND ITS NOT A DOLL! It's just a floppy action figure my grandma got me to help protect me from boogiemen and nightmares! Their real! I've seen them!"

Spike couldn't even get a word in, this was too much. He was laughing uncontrollably.

Jack started to get tears in his eyes "S-Shut up!" Jack shakes the Alicorn Amulet, then gives up "F-fine! How do I get this to work? Tell me!"

Spike lifted an eyebrow as he calmed himself "Are you serious?"

"Yes! Come on!" Jack got on his knees "I'm SOOOO close to ruling all of you with an iron fist! Just tell me, please! Look I said please! Pleeeease!"

Spike facepalmed, he couldn't even believe his guy was an actual threat before "can you just stop? this is embarrassing"

"I'll give you a gem!" Jack tried to bargain with him

"I already ate." Spike rubbed his stomach

Jack burst into tears and grabbed at Spike's leg through the net "COME ON PLEASE! I'VE NEVER BEEN THIS CLOSE TO ABSOLUTE DOMINATION BEFORE! I'LL DO ANYTHING! I'LL EVEN MAKE YOU MY RIGHT HAND DRAGON! COOOMMMEEE ONNN!"

Spike sighed, this was just sad now "Ok ok geez.Look, all you gotta do is wear it. and bam, it happens...can you let go of my leg already?"

"O-ok..." Jack stood up slowly and took a breath and laughed "HAHAHAH! STUPID DRAGON, I KNEW YOU'D FALL FOR MY EVIL RUSE! NOW YOU'RE DOOMED, DOOMED FOREVER!"

"uhh.....huh...so all of those tears are part of your ruse too?" Spike just pointed at the massive tears coming from Jack's eyes.

"Y-YES! e-e-everybody knows that any truly evil person can fake any emotion to trick goody two shoes like you!" Jack turned around to hide himself wiping his eyes and wiping his nose of his boogers. Holding in a sneeze.

Spike just sighed and thought to himself "This guy....eh, if I had some popcorn, I'd be set."

Jack, regaining his composure slowly, Put on the Alicorn Amulet. Suddenly, he could feel it. The power, it was flowing through him as sparks flew from his eyes, and the amulet glowed a blood red color. "THIS IS IT! THE POWER! I CAN FEEL IT! ALL THIS POWER! GET READY OMI! ONCE I GET BACK, I'M GOING TO USE YOUR HEAD AS MY PERSONAL BASKETBALL!" Jack did a few poses, then shifted his eyes towards Spike "Oh, about the right hand dragon thing? I lied! Say goodnight!" Jack aimed his hand at Spike to shoot some super duper blast.....but nothing happened. Spike just leaned down, snacking on a gem.

Then, Spike began to clap "Good job genius, now that i'm turned to dust. What are you gonna do next? use your hand to help point traffic or maybe go pet a goat?"

"what?! NO GRAGH! BLOW UP ALREADY! HYA! HYA!" Jack kept swinging his hand around, trying to get something to happen. But nothing did.
Jack frantically put his hands out towards Spike "hold that thought! I'll destroy you in a second. gotta try something out!"

Jack figured if he didn't have super blast powers, then he had to have super strength. He rushed up to a pillar and prepared a punch. Then slammed his fist directly into it. But all it caused was his hand to thump red in sheer pain. He grabbed on to it and whined and ran around like a sissy "AHHH AHHH AHHH AHH! MY GOOD HAND!! WAHHHH!!!"

"I actually hope Twilight takes her time now. This guy is all sorts of good stuff. he'd be good actor in a Manehatten comedy play" Spike thought to himself. gnawing on another gem.

Jack, in sheer tears pointed at Spike "Grrr! You'll pay eventually...ngh...Once I figure this all out, you're doomed. YOU'RE ALL DOOMED! NGHWWHHAAA!" Jack ran into the other room crying in pain and humiliation. And he had no ointment for the pain on his body or on his butt.

Spike chuckled to himself "wow.just...wow"

Chapter 13 - Wuya Meets the Team

It had been about an hour since the assault on Twilight's Castle.

Twilight had returned bursting through her doors, Rainbow Dash close behind and Fluttershy still catching up.

"Alright! Let me at him!" Rainbow dash said she she flew up and made a few punching motions "I'm seriously ready to take down some bad guy butt!"

Twilight stayed silent at first looking around as Rainbow Dash zipped through the corridors, looking for a fight.

Twilight, seeing Rainbow Dash fly off to one room. Purposely went the opposite direction and went into her study. and closed the doors, she could already see the damage was done.

Her horn started to vibrate, as a ghostly form seeped out, and gave form. It was Wuya. In all her ghostly glory,

She began to slowly hover around the room "Hrmm...It seems we just missed him. I told you, you should have left Fluttershy behind if you wanted to catch him in time."

"I wasn't just going to leave her there, what if Jack escaped and saw her back to wherever he would run off too? He might have captured her too." Twilight sighed, feeling she did actually goof up despite her sound reasoning.

"I doubt it, Someone like Jack Spicer usually runs straight home if things don't go his way." Wuya kept her cool, she actually just wanted to scowl and berate Twilight, but she knew her cover would get blown if she acted too hastily. "I thought you'd be more concerned about your dragon friend, to be honest" Wuya reminded Twilight.

"I AM...mnngh..I just wanted to make sure I didn't lose anypony else" "Twilight looked down, feeling like a failure.

"And now, from what it seems, Jack has the Alicorn Amulet. Who knows what evils he plans to do with it..." Wuya started to get a little agitated all of a sudden "If only I could sense his Shen Gong Wu again. Something is definitely off. I could usually trace a Shen Gong Wu down once it's shown itself. But in this world, I can only do it while it's activated. Odd...it must have something do with the magics that flow here."

Twilight was feeling a little too down to pay attention. She failed to save her good friend, and now the Amulet was taken. She thought that maybe he would have at least traded for him....but her bartering chip was gone now too.

Wuya started to think to herself "Would that boob go back to that castle? no, the coward wouldn't dare step foot into the forest again. Darn it Jack! Where could you have gone to? Now that you have everything I need I don't need this stupid princess anymore! If I have to stick with her for another minute I'll...I'LL"

Suddenly, her train of thought is broken when Twilight begins to speak to her "Wuya?"

Wuya turned and gave a quick fake smile "yes? What is it Princess?"

"Maybe I should just introduce you to my friends. It might be better if we come up with a strategy together." Twilight said.

Wuya had made Twilight keep her a secret. With a lie, that being should her friends know. And one would let word that she was around. That Jack would take desperate measures and actively try to hurt Twilight's friends and their families rather than taking the amulet. In truth, Wuya didn't want to deal with any of them. She didn't want to risk her being found out if she had to watch out for all six of them. Pinkie especially worried her, she could sense some extrasensory ability in her.

"We can't do that! Because...umm..Jack probably still needs another item! Yes that's it! If we can figure out what it is, we can plan an ambush for him!" Wuya told Twilight, completely against her idea.

"Wuya, he has Spike and the Alicorn Amulet. You said that's all he needed to succeed. We can't waste time planning an ambush if we don't even know what his next move will be! I'm happy to have your cooperation, and I'm glad you have some way of tracking him but....We need everypony to sit down and figure things out. If Jack went through here already. Maybe you can confer with Applejack,Pinkie, and Rarity. They might know something."

"B-b-b-but, be reasonable Princess! Perhaps we ca-" Suddenly Wuya's words are cut short as Pinkie Pie comes through the ceiling, crashing to the ground holding a bowling ball "LOOK OUT BELOW!"

Twilight looked towards the crash and stepped back in surprise "What in the- Pinkie?! What- What were you doing up there?"

Pinkie quickly turned and stood up, giving a salute and a smile "Just deboobytrapping the castle! But it's good that you're here! I have a lot to tell you! oh, and your ghost friend there too!" Pinkie didn't even seem surprised nor alarmed that Wuya was floating right in front of her.

"Well theres no hiding it now.." Twilight pointed her hoof to Wuya "Pinkie, meet Wuya the Witch. Wuya, this is Pinkie Pie"

"Twilight, that's not a witch! That's a spooky ghost...hrn...she seems kind of familiar" Pinkie rubbed her chin, something about Wuya seemed off to her.

Wuya was caught offguard, and hovered silently. Staring directly into Pinkie's soft blue eyes.

"Pinkie, Don't be rude. Wuya is....another victim of Jack. She lost her body to him, and her people..So please..don't upset her." Twilight warned.

Pinkie's focus on Wuya was lost. Specifically her eyes. Pinkie was beginning to think she had seen that kind of swirly eyes before. But now, hearing What happened to Wuya. She suddenly frowned and opened her hooves wide "That's...that's so sad..mngh. I know it probably won't help right now. But..I want to give you a "New Friend" Hug, Since..you're already friends with Twilight and all, that means you're my friend too! I hope it makes you feel a little bit better."

"Hug?" Wuya was not having any of this "No, I'm fine, really. Maybe you could go hug a cactus or something." Wuya hovered backwards

Pinkie gave her a small grin "I've already mastered hugging cacti, Come on please! I promise you'll feel a little bit better!" Pinkie inched towards her

"No really I-" Wuya gets stopped as Pinkie closes her hooves around her....then falls through her onto the floor with a small oomph.

Wuya sighed in relief "...well..at least this form has it's perks..."

Twilight giggled a little, finding the odd situation humorous

Suddenly there was a knocking on the door "Hey Twilight, what's going on in there? Is it that Jack guy? because if it is!..HERE I"

Suddenly Rainbow Dash did a flying kick into the room, going right over Pinkie and through Wuya.

"Wait Rainbow Dash" Twilight called to her.

"Is that him?!" Rainbow Dash immediately rushed up to Wuya and started doing hoof punches "TAKE THAT! AND THIS! AND SOME OF THAT!"

Wuya just stared as the hooffists went through her, a face of that unhumored "...will...will you just cut that out already?"

"Not until you tell us where Spike is! You...you..." Rainbow Dash finally noticed her attacks were going right through her. "What in the hay? What's going on?! Why can't I-"

"Rainbow Dash! That isn't Jack! ahrm...That's Wuya, the Benevolent Witch of Love and Friendship." Twilight walked up to Wuya and waved her hoof at her to present her.

"I dunno, she seems pretty evil looking to me. Are you sure this isn't that Jack Spicer guy?" Rainbow Dash inched her face closer to look at Wuya directly.

"HOW DARE YOU COMPARE ME TO THAT SAD SACK OF FAILURE! YOU INCOMPETENT HORSE! I'M NOT EVEN MALE!" Wuya bursted out, being compared to Jack was something that brought her quick to anger.

Rainbow Dash leaned back from being yelled at, and looked to Pinkie "yeesh! What's her problem?"

Pinkie got up to whisper to Rainbow "She lost her body and is a spooky ghost now, I think that's why she looks pretty evil. But don't worry, she's a friend of Twilight's"

Rainbow whispered back "oh"

"Wuya, please don't get upset at Rainbow Dash. She didn't mean anything by it...I mean...you didn't need to react like that either" Twilight said, trying to defuse any situation that might happen. Due to Wuya's burst

Wuya was just about to just tell everyone that she was done with them. But she still needed them. Jack would never give her her body back now. But Twilight would. She didn't really care about Spike. But she did need these ponies to pull out a win and get the amulet and Shen Gong Wu from Jack. She took a breath, and did a hovering bow to Rainbow Dash "..I'm sorry, I..I don't know what came over me."

"Don't sweat it, any friend of Twilight's is a friend of mine. I'm Rainbow Dash" Rainbow Dash struck a "cool" Pose as she said her name.

Wuya didn't know how to react. She already knew Twilight's friends by name by hearing them called out while hiding in her horn. But the name "Rainbow Dash" struck her as WAAAYYY too goody goody sounding. "Good for yo- I mean..ahrm...nice name, I'm Wuya"

Wuya's cover was blown. She had to make sure she acted as friendly and nice as she could muster. But she didn't know how much more she could deal with at this point.She had a choice, These ponies or just going and groveling to Jack to take her back.

As Wuya turned, she saw a familiar yellow horse at the door. She knew Fluttershy by name, but never happened a glance through Twilight's horn due to her always being out of her sight or too far behind. But looking at her now, She definitely recognized her.

Fluttershy's eyes grew wide. Staring at Wuya. Wuya just let out a nervous smile as she began to sweat ectoplasm. The jig was up. She knew the horse had to have spotted her with Jack before.

But Fluttershy didn't remember that. the encounter had put her in a small state of shock, she didn't even remember the incident.

Though, that didn't stop her from yelling out "G-G-G-G-GHOST!" And fainting again.

While the ponies went to check on Fluttershy, Wuya just let out a sigh of relief. She didn't know if Fluttershy actually remembered her or not. But she'd able to find out later, maybe she could scare her again? She liked her reaction.

"Rainbow Dash, can you take Fluttershy to the guest rooms? mnngh, Poor Fluttershy. She's had a really rough night trying to keep up" Twilight knew Fluttershy's reaction was caused by Wuya's appearance, but enough to faint? She also chalked it up to flying around all night and being worried about Spike.

Rainbow Dash nodded and picked up her incapacitated friend, and flew towards the guest rooms.

"Please don't get upset at her Wuya" Twilight turned to Wuya, to apologize for Fluttershy "She's kind of scared....well..of almost everything."

Wuya kept herself from smirking.She just found her new pet for when she conquers Equestria "I'm sure her and I will become the best of friends...hehehe.."

"Oh Twilight, I forgot to mention! Check out what we got!" Pinkie Pie rushed up to Twilight, and showed her the odd mirror. "We think Jack may have dropped it!"

"So..he was definitely here then.Where is Rarity and Applejack?" Twilight asked as she stepped up to inspect the mirror.

"They went after Jack, I dunno if they can catch him. But if they do..oh man, he's gonna be prettttyyy sorrryyy...But What about this mirror, pretty neato huh?" Pinkie Pie held it closer to Twilight's face, scrunching it against her nose.

oop...um..hehe..yes it's...pretty "ne-"...wait, I know what this mirror is. This is the mirror that Jack used to deflect my stunning spell!" Twilight said in surprise "He dropped this?!"

Before Pinkie Pie could reply, Wuya rushed up to the mirror "THIS IS THE REVERSING MIRROR!" She stared at it, as if it was some sort of long lost brother.

"Reversing Mirror? Is this one of your Shen Gong Wu, Wuya?" Twilight asked

"huh?..w-why yes! It is! It could also be vital to my restoration..hehe" Wuya started to nearly drool. Maybe she didn't need the Amulet. All she needed was some sort of ethereal ghost spell to be shot at the mirror while she was in it. And BAM, she'd have her body back.

"We can use it for ourselves, right? Since Jack has the amulet. We might as well use this mirror against him. From my guess, it deflects spells right?" Twilight asked, feeling a little more confidence. Since she witnessed first hand that the mirror was pretty powerful.

"Not just spells, it will completely reverse any form of attack or magic brought against it. It can even reverse the very nature of a spell's intended effect...hehe..speaking of which" Wuya turned to Twilight, giving her a wicked smile "You wouldn't happen to know any spells that can turn one into an ethereal being....would you?"

"I have an invisibility spell, but not any kind of spell that can turn a pony into a ghost...But..I bet I could probably find a spell like that in Starswirl's personal library...but, why do you need it?" Twilight was confused as to why Wuya was suddenly asking something irrelevant to rescuing Spike.

"Oh uhm..well..to be truthful. With the mirror and that spell. I could regain my body and help you thwart Jack and rescue your dragon friend..hehe..now..where would that library be? I'd assume somewhere in the castle? " Wuya could barely contain herself. She was internally thanking Jack's bumbling for bringing her body back.

"Oh no no, It's in Canterlot. It's kind of far away from here. I would love to help you right now Wuya...but...We still need to rescue Spike. You don't mind waiting a little while longer..do you?"

Wuya did not want to wait anymore. Choosing the dragon over her? That just won't stand. Wuya, absolutely furious with the answer. Flies up to Twilight's neck and tries choking her in her rage,

Twilight just raises an eyebrow and looks down at her "Wuya? ...is there a problem?"

Wuya, realizing she's doing nothing but wasting her time. Just looks up to Twilight and smiles "Oh..umm..no no. I was merely trying to give you a massage from all this happiness I feel about getting my body back soon and..erm..rescuing your friend....But silly me, I forgot for a moment that I can't touch anything. I hope I didn't offend you...eheh" Wuya chuckled nervously

Twilight gave her a big friendly smile "Don't worry about it Wuya, I'm feeling much better now. I'm just glad you're willing to wait until we rescue Spike. And again...I thank you for your help"

Wuya just turned, and gritted her ghostly teeth in anger "Don't mention it..."

Chapter 14 - The Plan to Reclaim the Reversing Mirror

Jack worked diligently through the night reconstructing the throne room into a laboratory.

He started out small, building an analysis machine to help him figure out the mysteries of the Alicorn Amulet.

The Jackbot that accompanied him had managed to recover the EPUs from the damaged Jackbots at some unknown point. It must have been when he was sneaking down to grab the Amulet.

Using them, he was able to power his laboratory tools, and begin his work.

As he did this, a stream of tears fell down his cheek. His feelings were really hurt, as was his crotch area. "Stupid Dragon, Stupid ponies. I'll show em, They'll rue the day they messed with Jack Spicer!..mngh"

Jack put on his goggles as his laboratory began to glow from the lights of his machines.

He began various experiments on the Amulet itself. If he could make a time machine, then something like this should be nothing to him.

Minutes turned into hours. But he began to learn more and more about the amulet. At this point, he started to regain confidence.

Jack began to write in a notebook "hmmm, so it amplifies the wearer's magical abilities with a self contained super energy within the amulet itself...ok, sounds good so far. Let's see...that energy however seems to have corrupting effect on those who use it's power. Making even the...hmm..whats another word for good?....goodest...That's a word right?"

His Jackbots just shrug at him.

"bah, who asked you guys anyway…?" Jack scolded them.

"hrn, anyway. The goodest of good into evil jerks. Which is ok, I'm already evil. But it seems to use the Amulet's power, you need a source of output. I'm guessing that the ponies who wear this thing use their horns...."

He closes his notebook "Alright, so I can't use the amulet's power without some magic of my own and a way to get it out." Jack seemed pretty calm about this, even his bots were confused.

"Master. Would that not mean the amulet is useless to you?" One of the bots asked, trying to be helpful...in some way

Jack stood up, he was tired from working through the night. But he was running off a certain energy. The energy of knowing he will soon be reaching his goal. "Normally, but remember who I am. I'm Jack Spicer! Evil Boy Genius! Any nimrod would have given up by now knowing they can't use this thing. But I'm no nitwit. All I gotta do is get a pony to force the amulet's power at the Reversing Mirror. All that power will reflect back at the amulet and force it's innate abilities to reverse. The internal power turns external, meaning I can put it into a personalized power suit to use it's power the way I want it to. I wouldn't even have to worry about it's reverse corrupting effects since I wouldn't need the amulet anymore." Jack started to rub his hands evilly "I already have the unicorn in mind to help me" He points straight up "Scootaloo!"

"Master, I believe you mean Sweetie Belle" One of his robots corrected him

"That's what I said...Don't correct me when i'm already correct...you just heard wrong!.....shutup...I'm just tired" Jack wobbled a little in his retort. It was already morning.

"Anyway" Jack raised his goggles and rubbed his left eye "I even figured out that this baby could even give Wuya her body back with it's innate power alone. If only she was here, I'd bring her along with me, I'd tell her "Come on Wuya, let's get your body back". And then when the time came...I'd just have it shot at the reversing mirror instead and have her watch firsthand as I conquer this one h.....ton of horse tow...world....eh..Too tired to laugh maniacally right now...And I still got things to do."

Jack took a breath, and reached into his coat. "Now, let's just make sure the Reversing Mirror is secure...hrnnn..Ahh darnit..I forgot Spybot again..I'll have to get him after I conquer the world...hnmm..monkey staff...snare gun...Re..huh...whe...WHAT?!"

Jack opened his coat completely, dropping his gear "WHERE IS IT?! WHERE IS THE REVERSING MIRROR?! PLEASE TELL ME ONE OF YOU HAVE IT!"

the Jackbots shrugged

Jack started to whine and squeal as he stripped to his boxers, looking through his clothes "ITS NOT HERE!"

Jack reached his fists into the air and screamed
"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO"

Spike's voice came from the other room "SHUT UP WILL YOU, I'M TRYING TO GET SOME REST HERE!"

Jack began to panic. Without the Mirror, he couldn't continue with his plans. He was wide awake now. His mind rushing. "Those...those ponies must have snatched it from me somehow. UNDERHANDED JERKS, YOU CAN'T EVEN TRUST THE GOOD GUYS TO BE TRUSTWORTHY! GRRRRR!"

Jack sat down and started contemplating a plan to get it back. "ugh, if I had the shroud of shadows..or maybe Serpent's Tail...something., even the Moby Morpher would work. They'd never suspect one of their own. They seem too trusting. or the Ring of the Nine Dragons would even the odds....AND I DON'T HAVE ANY OF THOSE.GRAGH! WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO DO NOW?! ALL I HAVE IS THAT STUP-...wait a second"

Jack just remembered he has Spike. A Bargaining chip. He didn't need to fight and possibly lose if he made a trade instead that was guaranteed to work. "Jack, you're such a genius. You even come up with backup plans before you even realize you have them" He yawned, then began to feel a rumble in his tummy. "Darnit, I'm tired and hungry...Can’t get rest on an empty stomach! Need to fill up on some yummy breakfast of...Apples! Of course! I could just ask..." He brings out his cheat sheet "Applebloom for some!"

Jack pointed to his Jackbots "Jackbots! Guard the prisoner until I get back! Make sure he doesn't escape, maximum security mode!"

The remaining Jackbots complied, and began patrolling.the castle, some going to guard Spike directly.

With a yawn, Jack got redressed and took flight to the sweet Apple Acres. He had to take a longish route to avoid being seen. He wanted to go straight through. But he lacked the resources or know how to make a working stealth unit for humans.

When Jack arrived. He jumped into a barrel and slowly inched himself into the barn. And waited for Applebloom to show up.

he waited for a while, to the point of falling asleep. Though he didn't get much rest when his barrel got tipped by an unknown force. causing him to bump his head "OW! WAGH! I'M AWAKE MOMMY! BUT PLEASE DON'T SEND ME TO SCHOOL..I DON'T..Wa...oh..."

He shifted his eyes to see what knocked him over. It was Applebloom. carrying a pale of paint. She put it down in surprise after seeing Jack pop out of the barrel "Mister Jack! What are ya doin' here? Did ya come for our help again. Do you need us to help ya save the world! Fight some bad guys?!" Applebloom eye's shone in happiness. What else could Jack be here for. He had his parts. His Robot Guards. It had to be time to get those world saving cutie marks!.

"Sorta, I kind of need food actually...haha...can't save the world on an empty stomach. You wouldn't mind helping out with that. Would ya?" Jack crawled out the barrel and stood up, brushing himself off.

"Of course! Wait here and I'll get ya some applefritters and applejuice to go with it! We got plenty of leftovers" Applebloom gave Jack the biggest smile she could. She was ready, totally ready.

"uhm..sound good but. Do you have anything that's not...apple related? Like cereal and milk to go with it?" Jack asked, wanting just something different as well.

"Ahf course! We got some milk and Oats and Hay Cereal too! With added Apple bits. Will that do?" Applebloom said

"hay..and oats?...a...ahmm...I'll just take the milk with the fritters and juice...heh." Jack sighed, it seemed he wasn't going to be able to enjoy breakfast cereal anytime soon.

As Applebloom left to fetch some food for Jack. Jack started talking to himself "Ok, first thing to change when I conquer this place. Is everyone is required to have normal breakfast cereal in stock, all day everyday. How am I supposed to be an evil boy genius on the go without the go! yeesh!"

After some time. Applebloom came rushing back with a plate of apple fritters on a plate. balancing it on her head. a glass of Juice and Milk on two sides of the plate. "Here ya go Mister Jack!"

"Oh man Applebloom that looks awesome!" Jack stared at the plate, and took it from Applebloom's head and started eating with his hands. Munching and chewing with his mouth open. and taking sips from the juice and milk in turns,

Applebloom then noticed something "Mister Jack, ya remembered my name!"

"Hey I did! pretty good huh? I knew I'd get it eventually" Jack said, with his mouth open, full of food.

"Erm yeah,only took ya a couple of times. I was beginning ta think ya had a problem or somethin' or maybe you were just worried about savin the world too much to remember" Applebloom was only leaning towards the latter option, nobody was that bad.

Jack stopped, and stared at her. Shifting his eyes for a moment to the left and right. "That one..the last one...saving the world one."

Applebloom nodded "That's what ah thought. When your done eatin, you wanna come to the clubhouse? We were just about to do some paintin'. I know it's not really world savin stuff. But we could maybe talk about strategies...and um...other things related to world savin. We can even give ya some info my sister told me about!"

Jack swallowed his food "Info huh? What kind of info?"

"Well, she didn't go much into it. But some bad guy broke into the castle last night. I heard her talkin about it with Fluttershy. But when she spotted me listenin' she shooed me away."

Jack took a breath in surprise, wondering how much she knew. "uh..huh...so...what do you know exactly?"

"Not too much, Sweetie Belle has some info too from hearing talk from her sister. But from what I know. A bad guy just busted in and took the Alicorn Amulet. But I didn't catch who it was. I bet it's Wuya!" Applebloom smiled at Jack "Does that help? ah mean, who else could it be but that mean ole Wuya?"

"Yeah, right. Who else could it be...haha" then Jack realized something, how would Applebloom's sister know anything about it "Hey Applebloom, who is your sister anyway? Just curious."

"Her name is Applejack! The most honest pony ya'll will ever meet! My sister is really strong too! And a hero herself! I can introduce you to her, if ya want. She'd be able to help for sure!"

Jack started to tap at his chin "Applejack...Applejack...where have I......." Suddenly, his eyes went wide. "...."

"Jack? Are ya ok?" Applebloom walked up to him and gave him a little shake with her hoof.

Jack snapped back to reality, and turned to her, forcing a smile "u-umm, nope..nothing's wrong! But I don't think that's a good idea really...I mean...How are you going to get your cutie mark things if we don't do it ourselves? Anyway, Come on..let's go to your clubhouse thing!" He didn't feel the barn was safe anymore. What was worse. His future little general was the sister of the one who kicked his teeth in.

"hmmm...good point..I think..." Applebloom opened the barn door and looked around "Let me just make sure the coast is clear for ya"

As he waited, he began to to wonder if his three little helpers would still be recruitable at this point. It was obvious to even him that the three of them were always together most of the time. He wanted them on his side that badly. They listened to him, never questioned him, he never had to watch his back around them, they did what he told them to do, and they were adorable. Especially Scootaloo, who he felt was closest to taking on his evil ways. Possibly even apprentice worthy.

Jack smiled at the thought, his very own apprentice. A living breathing soul that he could teach to be exactly like him, to have by his side to have dual taunting against Omi and his friends, to have laugh beside him the most sinister double laugh ever, to make up evil plans with. He didn't care she was a horse. She was his Jack Jr.

"Ok Jack, it's clear. Granny Smith just went inside. We gotta go now!...Jack?" She looked back, Jack was looking in the air, smiling. "Jack come on, we gotta go!"

Jack shook his head, snapping back to reality "Right Right...ok, let's get going!"

Applebloom quickly grabbed her bucket of paint and snuck off with Jack back to the CMC Clubhouse. It was pretty small. To fit through the door, Jack had to enter a fetal position and roll inside. There was enough room for him to sit inside. But not much else, his size really became apparent now.

Scootaloo, who had the helipack on. But the goggles off. Ran up to hug onto Jack "Hey Jack! It's great to see you again!" She nuzzled her head on him.

Sweetie Belle looked to Applebloom "Applebloom, do you think it was a good idea letting him come in...because...you know..I don't think he's going to be able to get back out."

Applebloom just flicked her hoof "don't worry about that Sweetie Belle, if he can't fit. We'll just use butter. Works every time"

Sweetie Belle was worried it wouldn't, but she had no reason to doubt Applebloom at the moment "...ok"

"heya Scootaloo...hey! Where's those goggles I gave you?" Jack wondered, he thought for sure she'd have it on.

"I put it in a special place in my room! I wanna make a section of all the memories were gonna share! I'd never ever want those goggles to get ruined ever!" Scootaloo said with happy pride. Beside her RD shrine, she had began to make a shrine for Jack as well.

Jack started to tear up "a special place dedicated to me? Really?"

Scootaloo nodded "Mhmm!" Scootaloo hovered upwards "I would have never known what it was to really fly without you Jack! You're my hero...um..next to Rainbow Dash... But you're also my friend! Whatever you need! I'll do my best for you!"

Jack had to wipe his tears, they were getting heavy. "mmnngh...mmnn..mn"

Applebloom noticed the tears "Jack, are ya crying?"

Jack wiped his tears quickly "N-no...just got some dust in my eyes." Jack turned away to wipe his tears, took a breath. and sighed "ok..I'm good...got it out...ahrm..hey Sweetie Belle...Applebloom says you got info about something that happened at the castle? I mean..I dunno what happened. But I think Wuya might be behind it! From what Applebloom told me anyway."

Sweetie Belle nodded and stepped forward "I heard a few things. I came at the tail end of what they were talking about until my sister shoved me out. But I think Wuya is definitely behind it, something about a mirror Shen Gong Wu thingy. Since I can't think of anypony who knows what that actually is. Then I can only guess Wuya has a few Shen Gong Wu of her own. But my sister and her friends managed to take the mirror from Wuya...But she got away with the amulet."

Jack just nodded. But now he couldn't just ask Sweetie Belle to use the amulet. Not unless he came up with a good lie to explain how he came across it. He also had never heard of Fluttershy before until Applebloom mentioned her. Twilight's pool of guards were growing.

Scootaloo smiled and raised her hoof as she came up with an idea "HEY I KNOW! Why don't we ask them to give Jack the mirror, he knows how to use these Shen Gong Wu things. It would only help us out afterall!"
Jack waved his hands frantically about "Nononono, gotta stay a secret. Like I told Applebloom, if we don't do it ourselves. Then you can't get your cutie marks since..I dunno..umm..They'd probably do most of the work. They seem like the type to do that."

Sweetie Belle agreed "Yeah...that sounds right. They saved Equestria from so many bad guys. That if they got involved. They'd probably just blast Wuya and we'd end up cutie markless....again"

"...oh..right" Scootaloo nodded, a little disappointed to be shot down "But..what about the mirror?"

"Well...we could just...I dunno..take it" Jack suggested.

"Take it? I dunno, that doesn't seem very heroic" Applebloom said

"Even heroes gotta do dirty deeds sometimes. I mean, you guys trust me right? If you're worried about Wuya getting you. Then don't worry. Jack's got your back..see hehe..It even rhymes!" Jack chuckled to himself, thinking it pretty funny

"I dunno" Sweetie belle rubbed her chin "The moment they notice the mirror is gone, they'd probably get pretty angry. I mean, it's already obvious they are trying to save the world too...mnnn...and if they do it before we do...then we'd still be cutie markless" Sweetie Belle frowned.

"Then we gotta get that mirror!" Scootaloo said loudly, in excitement "We'd only need it for a little while. We take it, we use it, we bring it back! Nopony would even notice...and besides. It rightfully belongs to Jack anyway. It's not like they know how to use it! They already got raided like..twice! Wuya raided them twice and took what she needed, and took Spike too! It's obvious that only us four can save Equestria this time! I say we do it!"

Sweetie Belle was convinced and nodded. But Applebloom was still on the fence about it. "I dunno fellas...Something about it don't seem right. I wanna save the world and all...But I just think we should do it by the book. Like my sister."

Jack interjected "Yeah but..she doing it that way hasn't gotten any positive results. I agree with Scootaloo on this one. We should just take it. Trust me Applebloom, I know how to use it to it's full potential. And when the time comes, I promise you. You will have a lot more than just your cutie marks" Jack thought of a way of putting it in a way that wouldn't allude to evilness "You would all be revered in the highest regard. Everybody would look up to you with teary eyes on the deeds you have done."

Jack was proud of Scootaloo for being the first to go along with his plan. through his tiredness, he started to have dreamy thoughts about her. Such as reading books together, Building machines together, flying together, subjugating the slaves together, blowing up random stuff together.

"Oh man, that sounds sooooooo awesome! Come on girls. We gotta do it! For our cutie marks! For Equestria!" Scootaloo tried to rally her friends together again.

Applebloom shook her head "I'm sorry Scootaloo, but I want to do it the right way. ah mean, we don't need to bring up Jack. We could just ask for the mirror."

Sweetie Belle raised an eyebrow at Applebloom "Do you really think they'd let us borrow it? Even for a little while?"

".....maybe" Applebloom didn't sound to confident.

Jack needed the compliance of all three, because as he thought about it. He started to think that he could be double crossed if he handed Spike over. It was possible. Sending the CMC to do his dirty work would still let him keep a hostage in case anything else happened. He threw his hand forward "Come on girls! Let’s just do it! If you're with me! then let's pull together!"

Scootaloo was the first to put her hoof on Jack's hand. Then Sweetie Belle. and then with a reluctance, Applebloom last.

"GO CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS!" They all called out!

If they could actually get the mirror. Then all Jack had to do was secure a unicorn to put on the Alicorn Amulet. Making a power suit would be simple for him. But he was also beginning to worry the CMC might turn on him, given Applebloom's reluctance. In the end, if he had to. He would try to at least keep Scootaloo anyway he could. She was absolutely perfect. If it came to it. He'd lock her up until he could acquire the yin yoyo to convert her. But he actually didn't want it to come to that. He wanted her to join him on her own. He was sure in the end, he could convince her to join him naturally.

Chapter 15 - DJ on Deck

Now that Jack had the compliance of the Cutie Mark Crusaders. All he had to do was nab a random Unicorn to force to use the Alicorn Amulet.

Though, Jack couldn't do it at the moment. He yawned sleepily. His energy was spent. and he began to curl up in the clubhouse floor.
"You guys mind if I nap here? and can I get a pillow? It's dusty down here." Jack rolled up into a little ball.

"You're gonna go to sleep? Now? Right here?" Sweetie Belle asked, feeling a little antsy

"Hey, I stood up all night getting stuff ready. A guy like me needs his sleep. important umm..hero sleep." Jack nuzzled into his arms.

"Jack, are ya sure you wanna sleep right there? We're gonna be paintin and fixin up the clubhouse right now" Applebloom stated as she tapped his side.

Jack opened a single eye and looked at her "I thought you were gonna get the mirror?"

"We are...it's just we already had planned to this first, It's not gonna take too long, but. You're kinda big and hard to get around" Applebloom said.

"ehhhhhh" Jack turned around and closed his eyes "I don't think painting is that important"

Scootaloo trotted up to Jack from the other side "But Jack, think of it this way! While we work we can come up with a plan to get the mirror. We just can't go and get it right now without a plan.Just give us some time and I bet we can come up with a plan that's actually pretty sneaky , they'll never ever know it was gone!"

Jack opened his eyes and looked at Scootaloo, a smile forming on his face "Sneaky? Did you say sneaky?"

Scootaloo nodded "Mhmm, well. you Gotta be sneaky if you don't wanna get caught right?"

"That's absolutely right. Already thinking like a...ahrm...hero. Willing to do what's needed to save the world. atta girl!" Jack reached out and gave her mane a small ruffle "Ok, in that case.." he yawned "I'll get going so you guys can paint. Just remember, think sneaky!" He pointed to Scootaloo and gave her a wink

"You betcha, get a good rest Jack. We need everypony in tip top condition so we don't get our butts kicked by Wuya!" Scootaloo waved to him as he crawled out the door.

Applebloom and Sweetie Belle joined in the wave. Though Applebloom only had half her heart into it. She didn't like the idea of just taking it. What if Twilight needed it because she got attacked by Wuya again? Or...did they even know how to use the mirror? If it wasn't for the chance of a cutie mark, she would fully put her efforts in convincing Jack to team up with her sister and her friends.

"UNGh...UNNNGH..." Jack was trying to force himself back through the door. But it seemed his food all settled into his stomach enough to make him just slightly big enough to not fit. "...a little help? Sorta stuck here."

Sweetie Belle turned to Applebloom "Butter?"

Applebloom nodded, and brought out some butter "Butter"

Scootaloo called out to Jack "Don't worry Jack, we'll get you unstuck!"

"Ok....ugh..." Jack sighed "Why couldn't I have brought the changing chopsticks with me?.."

The CMC started to apply butter to Jack's sides, smearing a lot of it on his coat. Jack himself just looked at the beautiful scenery of the Applefarm ahead of him, with Ponyville even beyond. "....this place really needs a fixer upper." he said to himself "Dark clouds, some fires, desolate gloom and doom, a giant castle with my name in neon lights where that stupid tree castle is....another castle for my summer getaways....that'd be nice"

"Ok! We're ready to push you through! You ready Jack?" Scootaloo called out.

"huh?..oh yeah, right! I'm ready" Jack called back.

"OK, READY GIRLS! ONE, TWO, THREE!" And all three of them gave a heavy shove at Jack's rear, making him fly out the door like a rocket.

"TOO HARD! TOO HARD!" Jack yelled as he started to fly forward and downward.

"AHHH! I'M FALLIN-" Then Jack realised "oh yeah...right..heli-OMPH" He realised too late as he slammed right into the ground.

The CMC, looking outside the door. All winced from Jack's crash.

Applebloom called out to him "ahm..s-sorry Jack...y-you..alright?"

Jack slowly raised a single hand with a thumbs up "I'm ok mommy....but I want another cookie..pleaseeeughh.." And then he fell unconscious from the impact and his tiredness.

"Wow, look at him girls! He's so awesome that he can sleep even after hitting the ground like that! He must be able to do it from all that training he probably does!" Scootaloo said with admiration.

"I dunno Scootallo, I think the impact is what knocked him out" Sweetie Belle observed swearing she heard him call out for his mom...and a cookie.

"Nah, he'd be in a lotta pain if that was it. But all that heroic training he does must make him super tough!" Scootaloo said

Applebloom opened up the bucket of paint. "Ya think we should wake him when we're done?"

"I don't think so, I'm sure he's so used to it that he can wake up at his own will. Besides, if we accidentally wake him up too early. Then it might screw up whatever he has planned while we get the mirror!" Scootaloo said in earnest. Thinking Jack was using a special sleeping technique.

And so, Jack laid unconscious on the ground outside the clubhouse. Dreaming of cookies and world domination.

Time passes to midday,Jack eyes slowly open to the brightly colored, beautiful.....dirt. "ughhh...what happened...I feel like I fell from a million feet." He slowly got up, and looked up at the clubhouse ".....ok a few feet...a few feet can hurt too you know..." Jack looked around, seeing signs of nobody around. "....You know, the comments I make these days would have more meaning if I said it in front of someone...even an evil boy genius gets lonely sometimes..."

Jack continues to look about, still pondering on the thought "Ok..I gotta stop talking to myself..It's not like there's anybody around to actually care or wonder what I'm saying...I think this place is just getting to me...Feels like i'm in a television show or something..but..how silly is that huh? I mean, it isn't really. A show starring me, Jack Spicer would be pretty sweet. It could be all about my evil adventures..haha! I even got a good name for it! Heylin Showdown, I'd get up every saturday morning for that!"

The only response he got was from the passing wind bellowing through the trees

"....ok..that's enough of that" Jack looked up at the clubhouse "Hey, you girls there? You done painting yet?"

no answer

"ugh..come on..." Jack went up the walkway carefully and looked through the window of the clubhouse. There was nobody there "hrn.....they left. I wonder if they are getting the mirror. I better leave em a note." Jack sat down and took out a paper and a pencil

He wrote down "drop off the alicorn amulet here in the clubhouse, will pick up later..Regards - Jack"

Jack placed it on the door with a piece of tape "There we go! Foolproof. Now, I got a unicorn to capture. And lucky for me, there's a whole town full of em. This is gonna be a piece of cake! hahahaha!" Jack turned to walk back down, but due to his size and the narrow flooring, he stepped right off where there was no step.
"gah!..haha! not this time! Deploying Heli-ACK!" And Jack once again plummets to the ground as his Helipack activates and begins dragging him along the ground as his painful cries are muffled.

Jack frantically shuts off his helipack and quickly gets up, spitting dirt out of his mouth and wiping himself off "...ok..less talking...m-more doing!..My poor face though...I hope I still look ok...."

Jack again activates his helipack and carefully makes his way to the outskirts of town. Staying low altitude and using whatever bush or tree he could find. "Kinda wish I had the Moby Morpher right now...it'd make things ALOT easier."

Jack finally arrived, and using a simple bush as a good basic villain disguise. Began to skulk around town. Looking for a poor, unsuspecting unicorn to kidnap.

"Lesse...no, that's a normal horse...that's a flying horse..flying horse..normal horse...normal horse..Ahh there's a few...agh...can't get close enough..I need to find a straggler...doesn't this town have any bums? Nobody ever misses them"

But as Jack moved about, he just couldn't find a single unicorn he could grab without getting caught "Darnnit, There's just too many of them. Time to check the backroads!"

Jack snuck back out to the outskirts and started to sneak behind trees and bushes just outside the road. Looking for any stray unicorns.

After some time, Jack finally spots an odd white unicorn with odd purple tinted shades with a black rim. her mane and tail two shades of blue. She was laying down against a tree, she seemed to have some sort of earbuds or something on. She was just silently bobbing her head.

Jack sneaked as close as possible to the oblivious Unicorn. She didn't even seem to notice his bush moving ever so closer to her.

Jack took out his snare gun and looked around to make sure there weren't any witnesses.
He slowly aimed his gun towards the aloof horse and fired. Capturing her in a net.

"Hey! What's the big idea!" The horse called out

Jack popped out and laughed "HAHAHAHA! YOU'RE ABOUT TO BE JACKED!"

The horse wasn't even struggling, she just picked up her shades from inside the net with her magic and put them back on her face "Jacked? I dunno, that doesn't sound very catchy. And what are you supposed to be anyway?"

"I'm Jack, Evil boy Genius...and that's all you need to know right now! Now shut up, you're coming with me!" Jack said with arrogance as he went to grab the net.

"Evil, huh?" The horse rubbed her chin. "That doesn't sound very good.....but..I wonder if I can make a beat out of it"

"What? wha?...what are you even...just shut up! I got stuff to do!"

Jack went to grab the net and attach it to his Helipack when suddenly he was in a purple aura and lifted slowly off the ground. "Hey! What the!?" He punched the air, only spinning "What's going on?"

The horse said nothing as she started thumping her hoof up and down.

Then she started making beat noises "bum bum budadadada bum bum budadada"

"wh-WHA HEY! OWWW OWW AHH OWW!" Suddenly Jack was being hit against a tree and the floor to the beat of her mumbling. "STOP AHHH AHH STOP AHH OWWW!"

After a bit more of a thrashing, she stops and sighs in disappointment "Not even close to sounding good" The aura disappeared from around Jack, dropping him into the ground with a small slam.

"..n..n..ngh..w-what happened...?" Jack groaned, holding his head.

"I think you we're in the middle of kidnapping me or something. Buuuuuuut..I dunno, whatever it is...really killing my vibe" the horse said, tapping at the net.

Jack slowly got up, and pointed at her with anger, he wasn't going to give up just because he got tossed around. "Listen here horse! You're not the one giving orders here! Now stop resisting before I do something really bad!"

The horse had stopped listening to him at this point and had managed to roll the net back to the tree, where she was again, bopping her head silently….While in the net

Jack was stunned "What the?! Aren't you going to take this seriously?! Evil bad guy over here! Pretty scary!"

She didn't answer, it seemed she stopped caring altogether, even though she was still inside the net.

"GRRRR! LISTEN TO ME" he points to himself "ME JACK!" then he points to her "IS KIDNAPPING YOU HORSE" Then he waves his hands "FOR BIG EVIL PLAN!"

No answer, she didn't care for him anymore.

Jack walked up over to her and stood directly over her, glaring at her "STOP LISTENING TO WHATEVER YOU'RE LISTENING TO AND PAY ATTENTION!"

the horse took out her ear buds and lowered her shades a bit to look into Jack's eyes

Jack sighed "Finally..ok lis-"

"Hey buddy, can you do your...uhhh..whatever somewhere else...sorta..umm..sorta in my sunlight there." She said, waving her hoof at him

"WHAT?!!?! WHY DO YOU...YOU'RE WEARING SUNGLASSES!" Jack was confused,annoyed, and thinking he was going to explode like Wuya had.

"Yeah but...you know, sun's good for the body, good for the fur and all that. I got a gig later and I want to be all relaxed and chilled for a super big rave party down at Ponyville. It's gonna be off the chain!"

"......" Jack was silent...she just wasn't getting it.

Jack just took his monkey staff from his coat and clobbered the horse over the head with it.

She was suddenly dazed and dunced "Hey...stars..it's night time..gotta get to that gi....g" And then she fell over, unconscious.

Jack grabbed the net and locked it to his helipack...it was pretty heavy. he then made his way back to his base "I hate this place,you're not supposed to just brush off evil like that. No respect, I swear. I feel like bag boys get more respect than I do"

He then looked at his knocked out captive "And you, you better not give me any lip!"

She doesn't respond, given her current state

"Good......good" Jack whined "Keep it together Jackie boy, you're soooooooooo close. just gotta keep an eye on the prize!"

Jack had managed to get back to his base without getting spotted. And dropped off the horse in the scrap and gem filled room. "Here Dragonbutt, I brought you a friend."

Spike looked over to see the white horse, her shades were crooked. "Hey I know that pony!...wait...why did you kidnap Vinyl? I doubt a nerd like you knows how to groove."

Jack shook his fists in anger, nobody insults his ability to groove and gets away with it "I DO SO KNOW HOW TO GROOVE! JACKBOT! PLAY ME A FUNKY BEAT!"

The Jackbot complies playing a funky sweet beat.

Jack immediately starts to flail his arms and shake his butt, then do silly jumping jacks and then do a spin and a pose, nearly losing his footing. But catching himself with a jump and landing on his feet. Then doing a terrible moonwalk.

"ok stop, stop please!" Spike cried out

"What's the matter, can't handle "Jack Style"? Too much for a peabrain like you huh?" Jack put on some dark shades as he did another pose

"Yes! It's too much!...It's torture to watch. I've never witnessed dancing so bad that it made me want to puke!" Spike was seriously nearly convulsing as he held his stomach "Please make it stop! No more! I can't take it!"

Jack smirked "that's right! that....wait" he suddenly frowned "My dancing is bad?"

"YES, DEAR CELESTIA YES! FOR THE LOVE OF EVERYTHING DECENT..PLEASE NEVER DO THAT AGAIN" Spike started to cry.

"........" Jack was terribly stunned with the sudden news of his bad dancing, he couldn't even get egotistical to retort "But....but my mom said my dancing was the best she ever saw...."

A tear ran down Jack's eye as he walked off "I need a minute...I have to re-evaluate my life..."

Chapter 16 - The Mirror Retreived

"Yarrr, ghost matey! First Mate Pinkie says to keep an eye peeled for that scurvy pirate Jack Spicer," Pinkie said as she looked through a telescope from on top of Twilight's castle. She was donned in a bandanna and eye patch. Like a pirate

Wuya sighed. "You know I'm not a pirate right? Why are we even up here?"

"Well my ecto bucko! Since that nasty ole Jack likes to raid the castle a lot, we gotta protect the treasure by spottin him before he gets here, that way we can set up an ambush." Pinkie said as she kept sweeping the area with her telescope.

"That's stupid...what WE should be doing is going to Canterlot to get my body back." Wuya said, annoyed and protesting being "lookout"

"But then, what if Jack attacked the castle while we were away?" Pinkie turned to her, a little confused by Wuya's persistence

"That's why we take the mirror with us. With my body, I could easily crush Jack Spicer with my bare han...ahrmm..hooves..” Wuya made crushing motions with her tendrils "All we're doing now is wasting time!"

"But we can't just go! our shipmate Spike be in danger! and getting him back is the most important thing right now. That's why we got our blue and yellow parrots scouting about while our captain and Applegrub looks for ye olde dragon locating spell...if there is any that is...yarrr."

"Can you stop talking like that? It's really annoying" Wuya was getting tired of her pirate talk

"Awww...come on, it's pretty fuuuunnn" Pinkie tried to nudge her, but she fell right through her and onto the ground "...see? you'd be an amazing ghost pirate!"

"I don't think being a ghost ANYTHING is fun. I can't believe there's six of you and not one of you have found that little cretin yet!" Wuya was getting furious that she had six allies, and they were losing to Jack of all people.

Pinkie rolled belly up and looked at Wuya with concern "Wow...he must have done something really awful for you to be so cranky. Aren't you supposed to be the benevolent witch or something?"

Wuya's ghostly eye twitched, she hated being called "Benevolent" even if she was the one who came up with the moniker. "The only thing "Benevolent" about me right now is the fact I haven't found a way to personally destroy you!"

Pinkie blinked and stayed silent for a moment, then giggled "Good one Wuya! I almost thought you were serious for a second there! You'd make a good comedian!"

"...I was being serious" Wuya didn't even care to hide her "evil" too much at this point, she was too annoyed

Pinkie just started to slam her hoof on the ground, laughing uncontrollably "hehehehehaha! sthahap! Thahaht's too funnehehey!"

"...." Wuya just covered her face with her tendrils and sobbed "Where did I go wrong? Was this the right choice I should have made? Is it possible I'm truly dead and I'm being punished by not only being allies with these ponies...but being beat by Jack Spicer...OF ALL PEOPLE...HIM?! HOW COULD IT GET ANY WORSE!?"

Pinkie stayed silent, her laughter ending instantly upon Wuya saying that..

Wuya went silent, afraid, and looked towards Pinkie "I said that out loud...didn't I?"

Pinkie nodded

"ahrm...you must forgive me, I've..urm...been under a lot of stress" Wuya chuckled nervously, she didn't want to be left without any allies. That would mean she'd never get her body back.

"That's ok Wuya, it's not like you're totally evil and just using us in a desperate plot to get your body back to conquer Equestria using your powers which are actually evil powers AHHHH" Pinkie took a breath "And that you were actually with Jack Spicer at one point but you also got annoyed with him a lot while having to deal with three....maybe four good guys, having wacky adventures together every other week" Pinkie said a mouthful

"....err...right. It's not like I did any of that. I was much too busy feeding cute little bunny rabbits and singing with birdies" Wuya was sweating, she screwed up, she was going to be found out for sure!

"Well duh, that's what I thought you always did. Why would I have any reason to think any different?...unless.... you really are totally evil and just using us in a desperate plot to get your body back to conquer Equestria using your powers which are actually evil powers AHHHH" Pinkie took a breath "And that you were actually with Jack Spicer at one point but you also got annoyed with him a lot while having to deal with three....maybe four good guys, having wacky adventures together every other week" Pinkie took a breath, again a mouthful.

Wuya stayed silent...and took a quick breath "..y-yyarr..that be silly first mate Pinkie, why would I ever do anything like that?" Wuya tried to go along with it, hoping it'd calm Pinkie down.

"Because, Pirates are notorious badguys who loot and plunder towns of everypony's valuables and make everypony sad. In short, Pirates are pretty evil" Pinkie said, in a matter of factly way

"BUT YOU WERE ACTING LIKE A PIRATE A FEW MINUTES AGO!!!! HOW DOES THAT RHETORIC MAKE ANY SENSE?! IF PIRATES ARE EVIL, WOULDN'T THAT MAKE YOU EVIL?! TELL ME, TELL ME NOW!" Wuya was furious, this horse was enraging and perplexing her.

Pinkie smiled and closed her eyes as she waved her hoof "Oh, I was only pretending to be a pirate."

"SO WAS I!! YOU STUPID HORSE! I SHOULD TURN YOU INTO GLUE RIGHT NOW!" Wuya wanted to kill her

Pinkie giggled "I know. and gee whiz, your impression of being evil is top notch, I would have never guessed you were a good guy!"

Wuya fell over, she was crawling along the ground, whimpering , she was thinking in her mind"I can't..I just can't. It's like my own personal torture room....where I'M the one being tortured. If anyone is truly evil here...it's this horse!"

"Something wrong Wuya?" Pinkie got up and looked at her, Wuya seemed pretty sickly all of a sudden.

"I have a headache" Wuya groaned, as she dragged herself to the edge of the castle roof.

Pinkie giggled "Another good one! How can you have a headache without a head! Classic!"

Wuya moaned and groaned as she leaned over the edge. She felt nauseated, she didn't even know how it was possible. But she also felt something else. All of a sudden, she had a sense of a close by Shen Gong Wu being moved. Her ability to sense Shen Gong Wu had already been weakened. To the point that they either had to be activated so she could follow it to its activation point of origin. Or be very close to one to even get a feint scent...and the only one close by at the moment was...

"The Reversing Mirror" Wuya said silently to herself as she immediately recovered from her nausea and looked to the ground, near the castle entrance, squinting her eyes "it's being moved out of the castle....but why....hmmmm...It can't be Jack. The peabrain likes to make a grand entrance."

As she stared downwards, three fillies started to make their way out of the castle. one of them had a familiar looking Helipack on her. "...what's this?"

Pinkie jumped next to Wuya and looked downwards "Whatcha lookin at Wuya?"

"oh..er..nothing. Just enjoying the view, eheh" Wuya chuckled nervously

"Pretty nice huh? oh hey, it's Scootaloo,Sweetie Belle, and Applebloom. I wonder what they are doing here!.....Oh well! Gotta stay on guard! yaaarr!" Pinkie said as she got back up and went back to looking for Jack with her telescope.

"Yes er, Pinkie. I need to be going to the...erm...thing...I shall return momentarily" Wuya said as she started to float backwards and off the roof.

"Okie Dokie Loki! Have fun doing that...thing! Pinkie waved to her as Wuya divebombed next to a bush as the CMC passed by.

She started listening in on their conversation.

"I still say this is wrong girls, it just don't feel right" Applebloom said, feeling pretty awful about just snatching the mirror.

"Yeah, even knowing this belongs to Jack. I gotta say, it still feels like stealing. I didn't expect to feel this bad" Sweetie Belle was feeling uncomfortable as well.

Scootaloo patted the back of her Helipack, which had a hidden compartment for storing items. "I know it feels pretty bad girls, but we did it for good reasons. Once we get it back to Jack, I'm sure it'll be alright."

"We don't even know where he is right now though" Sweetie Belle brought up

"Well, he usually shows up in the morning" Applebloom stated "We might as well leave the mirror at the clubhouse and wait til mornin for him to show up."

Scootaloo nodded "Sounds like a plan, let's go!"

Wuya was hiding, shaking her ghostly tendrils in anger. "are you telling me that tiny brained monkey managed to hire children that outdid six..SIX...powerful magical adults?! THATS IT! ONCE I GET MY BODY BACK! I'M BURNING THIS PLACE TO THE GROUND! I..." Wuya noticed the CMC had already run off "I...really got to learn there's a time and a place for my recent anger fits"

Wuya flew off after them, making sure to stay out of sight.

And she followed them, all the way back to their clubhouse.

"Hey, Jack left a note!" Sweetie Belle squeaked as she walked over to the door

"What's it say?" Scootaloo asked

"Hey! It just says what we were gonna do anyway and leave the Shen Gong Wu here. But he says he'll pick it up later" Sweetie Belle stated

"So does that mean later as in tomorrow? Or later as in a few hours?" Applebloom asked

The other two shrugged

"Well ah can't be waitin for the rest of the day, there's work to be done at the farm since Applejack has been at the castle most of the time. So I'll see y'all later!" Applebloom gave a half hearted wave. She just wanted to be away from the mirror and try to forget she had stolen it. She was beginning to wonder if this was even worth a Cutie Mark.

"Yeah, I'm gonna go too.Since Rarity's been gone, I've had the whole boutique to myself! I kinda don't want to waste the time. so seeya!" Sweetie Belle waved, less affected by the guilt.

Scootaloo waved, but she didn't leave. She walked into the clubhouse and removed the mirror hidden away in her helipack and put it on the table. "mnnn...I should really talk to Jack, I got so caught up with all this hero stuff and...I dunno who he really is. Maybe if I hang out with him a little, I won't feel bad about taking this mirror." Scootaloo looked into the mirror as she said this, frowning. At first she was perfectly fine with taking it, but as time went on after the deed was done. She was starting to feel bad about it. Perhaps getting to really know Jack would do her some good. As she felt she jumped the gun simply because he gave her the ability to fly.

Wuya was hiding just outside the window. staring at Scootaloo "I had to see this to believe this. So Jack Spicer,it seems you managed to get a little fan. You've even given her a little helipack. hahaha, did you think I wouldn't notice?! Perhaps...I can use this to my advantage. I must fetch myself some new allies willing to do some "Dirty work". Mehehehehe. Enjoy your lead Jack. We'll see how much this world has affected your will..." Wuya flew off, she had knowledge of the world by sifting through the books in the Castle. And she had just the allies in mind to do what she needed to do.

Chapter 17 - A Short Interlude

Jack left his lab throne to the chamber of gems where the white horse and Spike was at. having to have been consoled by his Jackbots to get over the stress of being a bad dancer. He had somewhere to be, and he wasn't going to let an insult get him down...well, he had to have help for that...but just the same..

He threw the doors open with both hands and took a deep breath "You smell that peons! That's the smell of sweet sweet evil coming to ruin everyone's day! That's right! Nothing can stop me now! Not even your stupid insults!"

Spike was too busy munching on a gem to care at the moment. The white horse however, lifted her sunglasses and spoke in protest "Nopony cares. You made me miss my gig, man!"

Jack walked up to her and smirked "And I care why? The only gig you'll be doing is at my coronation as Emperor of the World. And you're gonna be the key to it all!...you dig?" Jack snapped his fingers at her, with a smug look on his face.

"I ain't helping you with anything like that! And please...please..don't use words like that, you aren't really what I'd call..."cool" " The white horse used her hooves to make the quotations.

"Please, you don't have a choice. I don't know if you've realized it yet. But you're MY prisoner..so DEAL WITH IT!" Jack yelled at her with his final words, getting his spit on her sunglasses.

"ughh...say it, don't spray it" The white horse removed her sunglasses to wipe off the spit with her magic "Besides, if I'm your prisoner, then where is the grub?" she huffed on her sunglasses then wiped it again.

"Grub? Are you seriously asking me for food right now? How many times do I have to tell you!? I'm your captor, so I make the rules! GOT IT!?" Jack again, was starting to lose his temper with this uncooperative horse.

"Really good attitude,man. But let me ask ya a question. How am I suppose to "Do your bidding" if I'm dead from hunger?" The white horse looked to Spike "Does this guy understand the concept...of like...anything?"

Spike shook his head "I've been asking that question for a while now myself. Like, seriously. The only reason I have this food is because he forgot to tell his robot to STOP gathering gems. It's not half bad really. Once you get used to it." Spike munches on a gem "Vinyl, didn't you eat anything before he captured you? I mean, I'm sure he wasn't that hard to shove away while you got a bite to eat. I only got captured because he knocked Twilight out."

The white horse, Vinyl Scratch, shook her head "Nope, was too busy trying to relax. Had a gig to do until this joker showed up."

"Man that stinks, I bet all those ponies are gonna get really upset that you didn't show up." Spike frowned, those poor ponies.

"Hey! Evil boy Genius over here! Your future ruler! Probably not good to ignore him you know!" Jack was pointing to himself, giving them both a big stink eye.

"Yeah whatever. Make with the food already!" Vinyl barked back at him.

"What are you gonna do? smack me around again? I got my Jackbots in the next room ready to rough you up if you even think about it!" Jack warned her, with a smug smile. "So go ahead, try it. Let's see what happens."

Vinyl stayed silent for a moment, then started to whine, rolling her hoof along her stomach "Oh man...my stomach...ogghhh...If I don't get food soon. I'm going to waste away to nothing...oghhh...ahhh.."

Jack crossed his arms, standing his ground "Oh please, you know how many movies i've watched to know how stupid that kind of ploy is?"

Spike looked to Jack, raising a claw "Actually, she's being serious. Unicorns without food waste away into dust. fwoom" Spike snapped his claws "Just like that"

"What?!" Jack was surprised, that's pretty morbid "That can't be true!"

Vinyl whined "ooghhh...I can already feel my insides turning to salt..."

Jack suddenly got scared, He didn't know this was an actual thing. "You can't turn into dust! You're the only unicorn I could find that was easy to capture! I need you!"

Vinyl just whined, not even responding to him.

"Your choice dude, I mean, you got some time. But she won't last the night." Spike cautioned Jack.

"ngh.....nmmm..FINE!" Jack sighed "What do you stupid horses eat anyway, hay?"

Vinyl sprung back to life, giving Jack a smile "I'll take a couple of hayburgers, a drink..Either Apple Cider or Equine Delight Diet...gotta watch my figure you know....Some good ole fries...and a slice of pie..I'm not too picky on the flavor really. You got that?" Vinyl smiled at him

Jack was writing it down "fries...and pie...yeah I got it...what do you want pipsqueak?" Jack pointed his pencil at Spike

Spike just looked at the pile of gems, then back to Jack "I'm good, don't want to stress you out or anything."

"Fine, but don't whine about it when I get back. Or I'll just kick you...or something..I dunno..." then Jack pointed his pencil at Vinyl "And you, if you turn to dust before I get back..I'm going to kill you! Got that?"

Vinyl just laid on her back and looked to the ceiling, chuckling "Loud and clear, also..you can take your time if you want. I don't really mind."

"I thought you said you'd turn to dust if you didn't eat" Jack reminded her

"Yeah, but...I dunno...Unicorns also turn to dust when they get bothered by evil boy geniuses too much. Besides, I can wait it out a little bit..Sheer willpower is a great thing." Vinyl said as she closed her eyes behind her shades.

"THAT DOESN'T"T EVEN MAKE SENSE! HOW MANY EVIL BOY GENIUSES WOULD A UNICORN EVEN RUN INTO!?" Jack was befuddled, He had never heard such nonsense. He then turned to Spike "TELL ME SHE'S MAKING THAT UP!"

Spike shrugged "Hey man, I don't make the rules."

"..ugh...whatever! Normally, annoying a pony like you would be awesome! Because..you know! I'm annoying on purpose to make my enemies suffer! HAHAHAHAH!" Jack cackled

"Yeah..but...you apparently need me for something. So you're just being the normal kind of annoying. The kind of annoying that really kills a party, ya know?" Vinyl lifted her shades slightly to show him she was physically annoyed.

Jack activates his helipack, growling at Vinyl "under normal circumstances, I would have turned you into dust just for the fun of it! Consider how lucky you are that you're important to my grand master plan! G-got it!?"

Vinyl just turned and waved her hoof at him "Yeah yeah, sheesh. Just go already" Vinyl shooed him away

Jack groaned, he didn't know what more to say without risking turning her to dust. He didn't even know how he'd get the food. He hoped the CMC were at the clubhouse, so he could give them Vinyl's order for them to hunt down. He huffed, knowing he could do nothing else, and flew off.

Vinyl waited for him to leave before turning to Spike "Is that guy always so gullible?"

Spike shrugged "Couldn't tell you, haven't been here long. I only know that he's pretty dumb. Nothing to worry about."
Vinyl wrapped her left hindleg over her right and sighed "So....do we just wait here? or is there something fun to do?"

Spike sat down, chewing on a gem. "Well there's this robot I talk too, He's Scavengerbot number two, pretty nice guy. We could set up a game of ponecheesi, or play charades or something."

"Sounds like a plan little man, set it up!" Vinyl pointed her hooves at Spike as a gesture, smiling at him.

Chapter 18 - A Meeting with Scoots

Jack made his way to the Clubhouse. Despite continuing to deal with the disrespect of his prisoners. He still had a sense of glee. He was going to get the final piece of the puzzle after all. The Reversing Mirror he himself had lost. With no ponies to fight, and Wuya gone. Nothing else stood in his way.

Jack landed just outside the clubhouse and carefully made his way to the door. some of the way up was starting to creak from his weight. and he didn't want to plummet for a third time.

He noticed his note was gone. he smirked. That must have meant they managed to get the mirror....or were waiting inside to tell them they failed. Which then made him nervous.

He opened the door slowly and peered inside, he wasn't about to go in unless he knew he could get out. the door was only just big enough for him to fit if he went in on all fours.

And he saw it. The Reversing Mirror, in the hooves of Scootaloo.

"Hey Jack! I guess you really were coming later..which would be now..I think?...but anyway..later rather than tomorrow morning." Scootaloo smiled and waved to him "Look what we got!" Scootaloo waved her hoof over the mirror.

Jack, without thinking, crawled into the clubhouse. Keeping his eye on the mirror "Woah! You did it!" Jack was impressed as he lifted it up to make sure it was the real deal.

Scootaloo smiled half heartedly "Yeah, we did. But..Jack...can I ask you a question?"

Jack looked towards her, he had his own questions as well. He wanted to know exactly what kind of "sneaky" plan they had come up with. He gave her an awkwardly gentle smile "What is it?"

"Well it's umm...about the mirror actually...It's yours right? Like..It belongs to you?" Scootaloo had to make sure of everything. She wanted clear answers.

"Well yeah, I mean. It's a Shen Gong Wu. You ever heard of something like that before I came along?" Jack, though not sensing where she was getting at, used his lies anyway to merely cover his own tracks.

"Right..I get that. It's just.......how exactly did Twilight and the others end up with it? Now that I give it some thought. Shouldn't it have been with you the entire time?" Scootaloo asked

"...well..yeah..but...umm...you see. After one of my um..fights with Wuya. There was a big blast and I just sort of lost it.But lucky for me it was found, huh? haha, and see. Thanks to you, I got it back! So tha-...mgnh" Jack suddenly felt a twinge of pain. "Tha-n..." Jack couldn't say it in a truly sincere way, despite for some reason...wanting to. "...aha...Well I got it back anyway."

"Oh..That makes sense!...So...You even had us get it back in secret to help us get our cutie marks before Rainbow Dash and the others can beat Wuya themselves?" Scootaloo believed she was getting it now.

"Exactly it! Pretty smart plan huh? haha" Jack laughed nervously, half in relief her line of thinking was making things safe for him. Though, in the back of his head. He was wondering why he cared at all at this point. He had what he needed, he could just force Scootaloo under his command. Yet...he wasn't being as hasty as he normally would.

"Wow Jack! You really are cool!...I'm sorry to say..But I kind of had a little doubt. AppleBloom just seemed like she wasn't trusting you too much anymore after we took the mirror. Glad I can tell her you're a real stand up guy!" She smiled a warming smile at Jack

"Ahh don't worry what she thinks anyway, what's important is what you think...speaking of thinking. How did you girls even get the mirror?" Jack was just wanting to know, he inched up to Scootaloo, looking directly into her eyes.

"Well, I came up with the plan actually" she chuckled "It was pretty good too. I had Applebloom go into the castle asking for her sister.But she had to make sure to divert everyponie's attention. So she had to make a fuss about it.So the plan was to complain about her not being at the farm lately. Then, me and Sweetie Belle went in to look around. Then we spotted it! They just hung it up like a normal mirror, I bet they were thinking nopony would notice. But oh man! Rainbow Dash was there...she was guarding it! She looked so cool...but. I knew I had a job to do. So I had to have Sweetie Belle distract her by saying...ugh...Rarity was cooler...I can't believe I told her to say that...But If I was up there. I’d have gotten pretty distracted...Well umm..anyway. I knew They'd notice if the mirror was taken. So I threw a tarp over it and walked away and told Sweetie Belle I wanted to talk to her."

"Why a tarp? Wouldn't they have noticed you threw a tarp on it and ask why? It would seem suspicious to me at least" Jack asked, confused

"Well...hehe, It was actually a spur of the moment kind of thing actually. I didn't know why I did that...I guess I was hoping it was a sort of "out of sight, out of mind" sorta thing....but then I realized they would have noticed a tarp suddenly being there...covering the mirror."

"So..you were trying to cover the mirror in a tarp and then...Switch the mirror or something? With another mirror under the tarp? So they wouldn't notice?...but then realized there wasn't a tarp in the first place? How did-" Jack was confused, and before he could state how insane that sounded. Scootaloo cut him off.

"Wait! Before you say anything let me finish! Rainbow Dash got sort of distracted by Applebloom's complaining. So she never noticed the tarp. So I thought. Hey, what if we make it HER idea to cover the mirror in a tarp, and somehow already did it? All I had to do is have Sweetie Belle ask her what the tarp was for. Rainbow Dash seemed confused at first, but then she told her that it was guarding something super secret. Never even noticed the tarp was not there before"

Jack smirked "Are you serious? Why would you have the mirror out in the open like that?! and then get confused when a tarp got put on it! How dumb can you be?!"

Scootaloo got agitated with those words, and yelled at him "RAINBOW DASH ISN'T DUMB! SHE...she..I guess she just got a little confused....I even managed to make a switch with a mirror lying around the castle when Applebloom got really loud. Then I gave the signal...and we got out." Scootaloo frowned "And..don't make fun of Rainbow Dash...she's my hero..she was probably just really on edge because of that evil Wuya."

Jack felt a little jealous. He didn't even know why. "what? I thought I was your hero?"

"You are too! you're both my heroes. And if anypony made fun of you, I'd defend your honor too!..I..I just don't want one of my heroes making fun of the other. You gave me the ability to fly Jack....but Rainbow Dash..she has given me a lot of encouragement, and has saved Equestria so many times, and do all this cool stuff. You're both amazing to me....but..I haven't known you too long.The reason I even stayed to meet you is because I want to get to know you more...you know....if you aren't busy. I mean, Wuya isn't gonna do anything right now right?" Scootaloo frowned and looked down, she really wanted to have one on one with Jack to see how he truly was. She was hoping he wouldn't shrug her off.

Jack was somehow touched by this. Someone...wanted to hang out with him, to learn about him, to see is he was up to snuff with expectations. After going through experiences like this with one of his own ex-heroes, Hannibal Bean. And him being a let down. And also Chase Young denying him apprenticeship. He didn't want to waste the opportunity he now had that had been crushed by others.

Jack then rubbed his chin, faking a thinking expression "I dunno...maybe she might..."

Scootaloo looked down, disappointed "oh..ok...I guess you have to get everything ready for the final battle huh?"

"Probably...but, eh. After hearing how you got the mirror. I guess I can hang out with you for awhile" Jack smirked as he reached his hand out and gave her head a scruffyrub "I gotta admit, there were a few faults in that plan. But the fact it was pretty sneaky and all improvised AND still works gets the Jack seal of approval!"

"Wow really?!" Scootaloo's eyes glistened "You thought I did good?"

"Well, It doesn't seem they noticed the mirror is missing yet. So that's good in my book." He gave her a thumbs up "Stick with me Jac-I mean....Scoots! You and me can really go places!"

"Go places? what do you mean by that? "Scootaloo tilted her head, confused

"Well, what I mean is. After it's all over, and you got your cutie marks or whatever. I could use someone at my side, a partner." Jack said

Scootaloo's eyes grew wide, her excitement building "You mean? I could be your partner?! Like, your heroic sidekick?! THAT WOULD BE...ahmm..mm..I mean, that'd be neat. But..like I said. I want to get to know you more." Scootaloo had a sense of caution in her. As much as she was getting wrapped in in all this. She wanted to make sure she wasn't getting ahead of herself.

"Well, go ahead then, ask ole Jack here anything" Jack relaxed his back on the wall "I got an answer for everything you got"

Scootaloo started to think, now that she had his attention enough to get answers. She was wondering what she should actually ask. Then she started to think. where was Jack friends? was he a lone hero? "Ok ok, I got one. Jack, don't you have any friends of your own? I thought a hero like you would have already had like...their own team"

Jack opened his eyes in worry to the question. and thought hard of a good lie "........w-well about that. I got friends...loads of them...but, when I went one on one with Wuya ...Me and Her ended up here, I got separated from the rest. But I can tell you one thing, none of my friends compare to you Scoots.."

"R-really?...wait? why? Don't you like your friends?" Scootaloo was confused as to why he would hold her in that high a regard

"ahh, you know how it is. You become a big hero and suddenly they just wanna hang out because you're famous and stuff. But you Scoots...You can see me for who I really am, I respect that." Jack closed his eyes, putting his right leg over his left and tapping it on the floor. Feeling assured of his recovery.

"W-wow....I'm sorry your friends are like that...I guess they only really liked you for your fame huh?." Scootaloo thought that was not only depressing, but she now hoped that wasn't the only real reason she liked him.

"Yeah, a lot of people are really jerks. Always putting you down in the end. But you're different Scoots. You got your priorities straight. And everytime I see you? you always manage to do something that just wows me. and-" Jack turned over to see Scootaloo frowning "Hey, what's wrong?"

"It's just..what you said. I thought maybe I just liked you because...Well..." she flittered her wings.

"What, because I’m a hero?" Jack guessed right, as Scootaloo nodded

"Eh, the way I see it. The fact you want to get to know me shows me that you wanna know me for me. So don't sweat it. Trust me..I mean it Scoots. You can trust me" Jack only said this out of his own growing delusions. He really began to think there would be no repercussions in this once he conquered the world. He was looking directly in her eyes as he said the final part of his sentence.

"...I trust you Jack." Scootaloo smiled warmly, feeling her doubt wash away "And you can trust me too. As your friend."

Jack felt something in his black heart. like, something returned to it. But he was still too up on his own ways to stop his lying. It wasn't that he was scared to tell her the truth. He just thought, at this point. That gaining her actual friendship would mean she'd join him when the time comes. an enemy of his, Raymundo, had betrayed his own allies once. And yet they still took him back. Friendship was a powerful ally, something he believed he now had.

Scoots began to ask more questions of Jack. Everything from where he came from, to Wuya's origins, to his favorite food. For anything he knew he could tell the truth for. He did, otherwise. He lied through his teeth, Each answer he gave only brought Scootaloo closer to him however.

"...And there was even this one time I saved the world from evil spiders that even Wuya couldn't handle. I tell you, sometimes evil witches can be so dumb sometimes." Jack snickered

Scootaloo giggled "I just can't believe she'd let out something even she couldn't handle. She doesn't sound too smart. Probably why you have all the Shen Gong Wu thingys and she doesn't. But....she has the Alicorn Amulet...What are we going to do about that?" Scootaloo worried

"bah, I wouldn't worry about it too much. You can say, that it's already in my hands" Jack snickered

"Wow! You already have a plan huh? Well, I mean. Of course you do. That's probably why you needed the mirror. It deflects stuff right?" Scootaloo asked in admiration

"Right!" Jack gave Scootaloo's chin a very light tap "See, Genius material, right here baby!"

Scootaloo blushed and looked away, feeling embarrassed of being held in high regard by a hero "Ahh, it was just a guess. since you know. Mirrors reflect stuff."

"But you still figured it out....but hey...how would you like to see how it works?" Jack grinned at her, as he took his monkey staff out of his coat.

"What?! No way! You'd really let me see it in action?!" Scootaloo was getting excited

"ppffft, see it? No, I mean actually use it. Look, if we're going to be hanging out.. Then there's something I really wanna show you. Trust me, it's pretty cool..I just gotta ask. Are you ready to be Jacked?" Jack smirked at her.leaning closer to her

"J-Jacked? w-w-what do you mean? d-does it have to do with the mirror?" Scootaloo was getting nervous. She had no idea what he was thinking.

Jack grabbed the mirror and put it down "put your hoof down on this. and then put your hoof down on this" He then put down a rubber ducky he was keeping in his coat.

"errr..ok.." Scootaloo was really confused now, why the rubber ducky?

Jack gripped his monkey staff and put his other hand on the rubber ducky "Scoots! I challenge you to a Xiaolin Showdown for the Rubber Ducky. My Monkey Staff for for your Reversing Mirror! Your choice of the challenge!"

Scootaloo went wide eyed in shock as everything started to glow "Wh-whats going on?! What did you do?!"

Jack sighed "relax, just challenge me at something. And try not to have a heart attack. things are gonna get pretty crazy in a second."

"some-something? you mean...anything I want?" Scootaloo was still confused, but she wanted to trust Jack. "Like what?"

Jack waved his hand in excitement, getting a tad impatient "Anything, come on! Just name it already!"

Scootaloo went into deep thought. Then..she looked at her helipack, and flittered her wings to hover slightly. Then gave Jack a confident smirk "Flight to the Finish...just uh.. it's a race.."

"You're on!" Jack said as he activated his Helipack

Scootaloo suddenly had her confidence dropped when she realized something "Wait wait...I mean..I just..How can I even race you? Even if I was a match for you...wouldn't somepony see?-WHAAA!"

Suddenly the clubhouse shook as it shot up into the sky, seemingly through different dimensions, until it reached high into a night sky of endless stars. The Clubhouse walls simply fell as they found themselves on a giant beanstalk, surrounded by clouds below and some above. Some of the clouds looking quite volatile with voltage and sparks.

Scootaloo inched backwards in fright. "J-J-JACK!?! WHAT HAPPENED?!?WHERE ARE WE!?" She huddled and hid behind his legs.

Jack found her fright kind of adorable. He leaned down and looked at her. "Scootaloo, relax. It's all part of the showdown...yeesh, that is no way for a future Heylin to act..." Jack then began to think to himself "It's a good thing I don't act like that. It'd be pretty embarrassing"

"B-but Jack..I'm scared. I..I dunno where I am"

Jack gave her a gentle pat. And did his best to explain things to her. the magic of the showdown, the goal of the challenge she herself placed down. Scootaloo just wanted to have a flying race...well..she got what she wished for.

She began to calm down, and looked ahead, seeing a yellow glowing cloud in the distance. "So...this place is just part of a magical showdown thing? One of my own.creation? Nothing bad?"

Jack shook his head "Yeah, simple as that. So...you got it? You think you can handle it?"

Scootaloo stood at the edge of the beanstalk leaf they were on and looked back at Jack, unsure "I dunno...do you really think I have a chance?"

Jack shrugged "Probably not"

Scootaloo frowned "o-oh"

"I-I mean...probably not...unless you put your heart into it..haha" Jack didn't know why, but he felt bad that she felt bad.

"oh..OHH..ok..I..I think I get it...I..I hope" Scootaloo raised her wings.

"Ok..whew..ok..so..umm ready?" Jack started doing stretches

"yeah...Yeah I think so..oh man..I'm really gonna do this! I can't believe it! I was kind of scared to fly super high, but this is mega super high..and..and OH MAN..ITS GONNA BE AWESOME!"

Jack could only smile at her excitement.

"Ok..so, I just gotta say the thing right? that phrase?" Scootaloo readied herself

Jack nodded

"ok" she started flapping gently

They both cried out "Gong Yi Tanpai!"

Chapter 19 - Xiaolin Showdown! Flight to the Finish!

Jack immediately took off, catching Scootaloo offguard.

Scootaloo , confused but determined. Flies off after him.

Jack notices cloud rings along the sky, he figured that part of the race had to be to fly through the rings to the goalpoint.

Scootaloo was just doing her best to keep up., noticing that each ring of clouds that Jack flew through, began to glow and then dissipate. She began to figure as well that this is the path she also had to take. But she was still behind "Hey! Jack..come on, Wait up!"

Jack flipped around and flew backwards, giving an arrogant look to Scootaloo and calling back to her "Come on Scoots, it's a showdown! You can't expect me to slow down for you. You gotta do better than that if you wanna beat me!"

Scootaloo flitted and flapped her wings as hard as possible to make her helipack move faster. But she was having trouble catching up "But it isn't fair! You knew how to start!"

"Life ain't fair kid, that's something you gotta learn!" Jack called back. "Gotta roll with it"

Scootaloo took that a little too hard and gave a nasty look to Jack as she began to flap harder, making the helipack move faster.

Jack could see her speed increased, she was gaining on him. "You gotta do better than that!"

Scootaloo suddenly smirks as she turns and flies straight up.

Jack gets confused and calls out "What are you doing? Giving up already, huh?"

"No! Just getting in the lead!" Scootaloo calls back as she flies through a ring that was going straight up.

"lead....wha..huh?" Jack looks up, then turns ahead to see he had veered off course, and flies straight into a cloud.

He comes out of it with a seriously unamused look and a cloud beard and mustache "......"

Scootaloo was just giggling as she flew through a series of rings that weaved left and right. Jack flew back onto the course and started flying through the rings, doing his best to catch up. "grrr, I meant do that!"

Scootaloo was having too much fun to answer. With the big open skies. She was starting to do tricks and loop de loops. It was like an open skybox.

Jack took the opportunity to focus on catching up. Taking the challenge seriously enough to when he caught up with Scootaloo, he grabbed her hoof and flung her behind himself. Sending her into a horizontal spin.

"HEY! WHATS THE BIG IDEA?!" Scootaloo yelled as she tried to balance herself.

"It's a race! not a stunt show! Gotta do whatever you can to win! And I'm gonna tell you right now! I'm gonna win!" Jack made a taunting face at her and flew through the next set of rings.

Scootaloo managed to catch herself and zipped towards Jack like a missile. Trying her best to catch up again.

"Grrr, You're playing dirty, Jack!" Scootaloo cried out.

"Sometimes you just gotta play dirty.." Jack was reaching inside his coat for the snare gun. "KINDA LIKE THIS!" Jack did a quick spin and shot a net at Scootaloo.

Scootaloo saw the net coming at her, and dropped her altitude by stopping her wings, narrowly dodging the net. "Haha!"

"What the?...she dodged it...Nice...wait..I mean..HOW DID YOU DODGE THAT?!" Jack called to her in confused surprise.

"You shouldn't yell things out before you shoot something, you know? Makes it super obvious!" She said, flapping like a hummingbird to gain speed.

Jack could already see the victory golden yellow cloud. All he had to do was land on it and he was...well...golden "Yeah well! You still don't stand a chance! I'm about to win this thing!"

Scootaloo was thinking hard and fast. She thought maybe getting to at least his helipack and hitting it would secure her win. Since he was playing dirty, she wanted to try it too...But he was too far away.

Jack was already nearing the end, another moment and he'd seize victory.

Then Scootaloo realized something "Wait...I'm a pegasus...." then she grinned "And I know something a lot faster than the both of us..." Scootaloo began to veer off course.

Jack looked back and noticed she was moving away from the flight path "Giving up?"

Scootaloo flew up to a black looking cloud and just looked slyly at Jack. "Nope, just gonna "shock" you with my win!"

"Shock?" Jack was confused "Is that a joke? a Pun?...what do you mean by that? Because you can't possibly catch up now, you know."

"Don't need too! Hyah!" Scootaloo gave the cloud her best kick, sending out a lightning bolt. She wished deeply that her aim wasn't off.

It wasn't

"REGRFHTGSFHRTRTGRDGFGFDFGF" Jack yelled incoherently, convulsing in mid air.

"......." Jack was blackened by the bolt, his hair frizzled, and his helipack sputtering. His eyes circling around. He opened his mouth, letting out a puff of electrified smoke.

Scootaloo grinned, he was out of it. She zipped through the last of the rings and past him. And landed on the golden cloud. Causing all the other clouds to turn golden. "I WON!..right?"

She didn't know

The clouds began to converge and turn into the walls of the clubhouse.

Scootaloo found herself in front of a stunned, silent, electrified Jack as the Monkey Staff,Reversing Mirror, and Jack's rubber ducky sat in front of her. "...woah.....that.....was...soooooo..AWESOME! THAT WAS THE COOLEST THING I EVER SAW!" She jumped, amazed by the aesthetics of the showdown, and her victory.

Jack just fell forward, landing on his face. "..u-ugghh..."

Scootaloo noticed Jack's fall and stopped her victorious hops. Helping him up. "J-jack..a-are you ok?"

Jack just turned to her with a crooked smile "ahf curse appulbelleycoot, didn fheel ah sing...hey..whys ya gotsfree heds?"

"wha? Jack?" Scootaloo shook him a little "Jack! Equestria to Jack! Are you ok?!"

Jack could fully hear Scootaloo's cries and shook his head. making his vision clear and his senses come back to him "..woah..I feel like I just got hit by a lightning bolt."

Scootaloo chuckled nervously "Yeah...hehe, you sort of did. I'm-m sorry...I just got sort of angry and just..I really wanted to win."

Jack couldn't remember the results. He could see he was back in the clubhouse "...did you win?"

Scootaloo nodded "uh huh! I managed to pull out a desperation move...like...Like..wow! Like when a hero does when they are looking like they are about to bite the dust!" She gave Jack a sly smile "Jack....you weren't training me for that sorta thing...were you?"

"Was I?" Jack thought about this for a moment. He wanted her to try to win anyway she could, no matter what kind of dirty trick. But he didn't expect to actually lose. He might as well say what she wanted to hear. He liked seeing her happy, he still couldn't figure out exactly why "Yeah.... yeah..that was exactly what I was doing. And I gotta say, surpassed all of my expectations."

Scootaloo gave him a big smile "I guess you can say I "zapped" the Jack, huh?"

"ahrm..yeah..eheh" He looked away with a wince, he was happy to see her happy. But losing never sat well with him.

"And check out all this stuff I won.....though" She began to frown "I don't get to actually keep it huh?"

"Sorry Scoots, can't let you have em. They are pretty important to me" He grabs the staff and the Mirror.

Scootaloo puts the rubber ducky on the flat of her hoof and holds it up "I can at least keep this right? It's pretty cute!" she gives it a squeeze

Jack swipes it immediately "That's ESPECIALLY important to me....for things...and stuff."

Scootaloo frowned again, deeper than before. She thought she would be able to keep it for her collection she wanted to make. "...oh..ok"

Jack noticed her sadness from him taking the rubber ducky away from her. He looked at the rubber ducky. It had his eyes and tiny plastic goggles.

he growled and struggled internally with himself. sighed heavily, and turned away and shut his eyes as he held the rubber ducky to her "........fine..."

Scootaloo squeed and smiled as she took the Rubber Ducky and gave it a hug! "Thanks Jack! I could put this with all my Rainbow Dash Duckies...They c...ahrmm..." she realized what she was saying, it sounded nerdy. "...Thanks Jack"

"...yeah..yeah...mngh" there were tears in his eyes, he was looking away...but he was seriously going to miss that duck.

Suddenly, he felt something soft and snuggly hug onto him.

He turned, it was Scootaloo. Cuddling into him. She was overwhelmed. Even Rainbow Dash didn't hang out with her like this. The world was in danger, and he gives up his spare time for her.

Jack put his hand around her and gave her a little patting hug. He felt kind of glad he didn't take over the world yet. He was planning in his head to do it in the morning. Since it was getting kind of late.

"Jack, when it's all over. Are you gonna stay in Equestria?" Scootaloo looked into his eyes with oblivious faith.

"stay?" Jack had no intention to stay, he had to conquer earth after conquering Equestria "Maybe...I have to see to some stuff after I'm all done here."

"What kind of stuff?" Scootaloo was curious, staring intently into his eyes for his heroic answer

"....stuff" Jack didn't know how else to answer, and he was getting nervous about the line of questioning.

".....oookkk...." Scootaloo said with disappointment "bbuuuttt...If you need help with that "stuff". I'm always willing to help!" Scootaloo saluted to him.

"heh..I know you are Scoots. And don't worry. There's gonna be a day I'm really gonna need you. So, you better be up to it. There's no whiners in Team Jack!" Jack smirked at her

"Gotcha..oohhhh.I can't wait!" Scootaloo got excited again.

Jack looked outside. It was getting dark. "Speaking of waiting. It looks like it's getting dark..."

"wow..I didn't even notice" Scootaloo looked out the window "I gotta be getting home before everypony starts to worry!"

Jack just nods "Yeah...don't wanna make em worry..u-um Scoots..I got a question for you. Before you go" It seemed like he forgot something

Scootaloo stopped "What is it?" she asked

"I got a list here" He pulled out a list of food "For food...kinda need help with it. You got any of this stuff here?"

Scootaloo took a look. "Sorry Jack, we got some snacks and some food, and lots of apples thanks to being near the farm. But none of that stuff"

Jack couldn't wait too long. He didn't want Vinyl to turn to dust, and he was getting hungry himself. "Mind if I take......all of it?"

Scootaloo frowned "Sorry Jack, you can't have all of it...but" She gets a bag and puts a random assortment of food for him in it. More than enough. But not emptying their supply.

She brings it over to him and puts it down, using her face to nudge it towards him.

He picked it up and slung it around his back, thinking in the back of his mind “That stupid Unicorn better eat this. It's the best she's gonna get"

"So Jack, when DO we go after Wuya?" Scootaloo asked

"Tomorrow, I promise. Trust me, she ain't gonna know what hit her. So you better go home and get some sleep Scoots. You're gonna wanna be a part of this."

Scootaloo nodded and saluted "Yes sir! Jack Sir! You won't be sorry!"

With that, she bid her farewells...or almost. Jack needed help getting through the door again.

and with that, he went back to the castle. His final victory in sight...that'd he'd hold off til tomorrow. He was getting tired.

Upon arriving,He walked into the the room his prisoners were in first when he arrived. They were playing charades.

He didn't even say a word. He passed by them with a smile, leaving the bag of food next to Vinyl. He was happy. about the world's impending doom and the day he had with Scootaloo.

Spike, Scavengerbot, and Vinyl looked at eachother with worry.

"Is that normal?" Spike asked the Scavengerbot

"no, records indicate that he usually returns home annoyed, disillusioned...and cranky. It is possible that he had.....a good day" The robot said with no emotion

"Good day? so tell me robodude, what does that entail..exactly?" Vinyl asked as she magically pulled the bag over, disappointed she didn't get what she ordered.

"It is possible he is about to conquer the world.....or his mother has lifted his restrictions and punishment" The scavengerbot said

"...is...his mom even around here? I haven't seen her." Spike looked around the room.

"no..." the robot said

"....then.....that means....OH MY GOSH! WE'RE DOOMED! I CAN'T BELIEVE IT! WE ARE ACTUALLY DOOMED! EVERYPONY PANIC! AHHHHH!" Spike began to scream and tussle around

Vinyl didn't do much but eat, she didn't feel like panicking when she felt all Jack was was a nuisance to her. All she had to say about it was "wow...what a downer."

Jack snuggled into his bed he made in his lab throne room. He could hear Spike's screams of terror. which only lulled him into a deep sleep. Tomorrow would be a good day for Jack. A good day indeed.

Jack dreamt of world domination, He was finally close to victory. He saw himself between two statues of himself. as he looked down from a giant technological castle at his slaves. Both human and pony. In the sky, he saw Scootaloo leading a robo-batallion to it's next battle.

He could even see Omi, his friends, and even others like Chase. in Chains, banging on rocks.

He had it all.

"Jaaaaaack.......ohhhhh Jaaaaaccckkk.." a Voice suddenly started calling to him.

He turned silently. "Hello? who's there?"

"Jaaaaaaaackkk...it's time to get uupppp" the voice called to him. as the world around him began to dim into blackness.

"Mom?..is that you? come on..I'm busy ruling the world here!" Jack exclaimed in brattish defiance.

"Mom?! You ignorant boob! It's me!" The voice called out in anger

"Who? Kimiko?...Because I gotta say...you sound really old and raspy...sorta like.." Jack opened his eyes, above him, floating above his bed with a malicious smile was..

"WUYA?!" Jack screamed in fear from the shock of her being above him and awakening. Making him fall out of bed and hit his face.

Wuya chuckled "I always get a kick out of that..."

Chapter 20 - Wuya's Proposition

Jack, in his PJs, immediately stood up to look at the ghostly figure that was in front of him "You're some sort of dream right? I saw you blow up."

"Jack, I'm immortal" Wuya said in an annoyed, condescending tone "meaning nothing can actually kill me....except perhaps your whining and blithering...but I digress." She then gave him a rather evil smile "How is my favorite evil boy genius doing?"

"Favor-..oh ho" Jack gave her a smirk and bounced his finger at her "I know what you're here for."

"you do?" Wuya gave a fake face of surprise "Gee Jack, whatever could I be here for?"

"I'm just going to take a very educated guess that you're here because you somehow figured out I have all the Shen Gong Wu I need." He got close to her face and gave her the biggest,smuggest smile he could "am I riiiighhtt?"

"You're right Jack, oh my. I can't get anything past you. But since we are having such a pleasant morning chat. I suppose I could ask my question....would you mind giving me my body back?" Wuya blinked her eyes at him.

Jack burst into laughter "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! Are you serious?! Are..you...SERIOUS?!?! HAHAHAHA."

Wuya makes a pout "Oh Jack...that hurts. After all we've been through together. Is this how you treat me?"

"uhhh...DUH! All you ever say is "Jack, you idiot" or "Get off your lazy rear and do something, Jack!" or even "You can't do anything right, Jack". But look at me now! The moment you blew up, I became the toppest of top. The biggest of big. The future emperor of the UNIVERSE! And you.....just a floaty ghost...thing, so beat it! If you wanted your body so bad, you should have done what I did and actually USE YOUR BRAIN! HAHAHAHAHA" Jack laughed in a sinister tone, enough that lightning should have struck to add to it's sinister qualities.

"You're right Jack, if only I hadn't been sooooo foolish. I suppose I could never compare to you" Wuya hung her head in shame

"HAHAHAHA..hahaha...what? Ok, what's up with you? normally you'd be screeching like a banshee by now. What? Did you finally realize that I'm actually superior to you? I mean, I know I am since I'm not a useless old ghost!..haha" Jack chuckled, he didn't know what got into Wuya. But seeing her on the ropes was enjoyable.

"Hurtful words Jack Spicer...but there might be truth to those words after all...So then. What do you plan to do now? I'm just curious" Wuya said as she circled him

"What else? Conquer the world. It's on the top of my to-do list after all. Maybe I'll think of you when I rule the world....maybe" Jack said as he pressed a button on his PJs. turning it into his coat in a flash.

"Oh Jack, you really have thought of everything. I was such a fool to ever think I could challenge you." Wuya suddenly began to smile slowly

"Yeah.....I am pretty great" Jack said as he rubbed his hand on his chest arrogantly and blew on it "I'm hot stuff"

"Tell me Jack....how does little Scootaloo feel about this?" Her smile began to twist as she said this

"Scoots? bah, she'll come around eventually. But right now she's..pretty.....hold on.." He blinked and froze for a second, then looked at Wuya inquisitively"How do you know about Scoots?"

Wuya cackled "I know a lot of things Jack. About this world, it's inhabitants....your recent actions. If you thought I had been floating about doing nothing. Then you'd be quite wrong."

At first Jack was intimidated, but then he realized that she couldn't do anything in her current state "So you know a lot of stuff. Who cares? it's not gonna matter once I'm running this place, not like you can stop me if that's what you're thinking."

Wuya's smile became insidious now.It practically beaming an evil aura "Yes Jack, you're quite right. There is nothing I can do to stop you. I'm actually impressed you've come so far....but tell me. How would you feel if you didn't have your little general around?"

Jack was confused, did she mean Scootaloo? "I already got that covered. If you thought their were any holes in my plan. then I should tell you...it's air tight, baby! one hundred percent Jack approved!"

"Oh Jack...it's not a matter of her possibly not wanting to join you....It's a matter of her being completely unable to. gehehehe" She chuckled maliciously.

Jack felt a pain in the pit of his stomach "What do you mean by that?"

"Oh...I have a feeling you can figure it out, Jack. You are a genius after all. I'll leave you to your devices with only this in mind. You can conquer the world now...or you can come to my current residence. It is a rock quarry not too far off from the town. One of my new lackeys will be waiting for you. Just keep little Scootaloo in mind when you make this choice. It's very important."

Jack didn't like that insinuation one bit. "Hey! What are you talking about?! Stop talking like a weirdo and just tell me what the heck you're talking about"

Wuya started to drift backwards "I don't have to explain anything to you, Jack Spicer. If you're smart. You'll make the right decision. I'll give you some time to think about it. Ta-ta" She waved as she drifted through a wall.

Jack reached out for her "Hey wait! Tell me what you mean you stupid ghost!"

But she had already gone

Jack began to wonder. he was having a hard time trying to figure out what she meant. Or perhaps. He didn't want to imagine what she meant.

Jack tried to shrug it off. He walked over to his work table.

He held up the Alicorn Amulet, then looked at the Reversing Mirror "It's...so close." he was struggling to hold his head up high "So..close...come on Jack. You can't possibly be thinking that...."

Jack sighed "Wuya is just trying to mess with you. You've dreamed of this day. It's finally yours.....the statues of you, the people screaming your name in terror, having a neato crown. It's all yours.....but..Why do I feel something is wrong though? That's not like me..."

Jack didn't want to even think it. That Scootaloo was in some sort of trouble. He didn't want it to get the better of him. He always had an affection towards things he thought he could make his partner. From his own created RoboJacks to even a certain "bird of Paradise". And every one of them had stabbed him in the back. He tried to imagine Scootaloo as no different.

"Come on Jack! It's yours. Evil Boy Emperor! Just minutes away!...ngh..........ugh..." Jack walked around in a disillusioned, dreaded funk "...It's not like she'd even come to my side, right? Right? she'd just either be a goody two shoes and try to destroy me or steal my crown right from under my own nose..."

Jack sat down, taking a deep breath "It shouldn't matter right? I'm a Heylin, totally evil. Right to the core...and.....and..."

Jack let out a sigh "....And I'm just gonna screw up again.....ugh..Maybe Wuya is just bluffing...but I guess it's worth checking out. Maybe it'll just give me a chance to really gloat in her face...hmnnn.." He didn't feel enthusiastic about this thought. he felt as if a venomous omen has been brought to him.

Jack put on and activated his helipack. And took the Shen Gong Wu and amulet with him. To search for the location Wuya had mentioned

It didn't take him long to find it. He landed inbetween some rocks and started to sneak around. Looking for someone.

Finally, he sees some doglike creature with a spiked collar and red vest, "wow....Wuya sure can pick em...I swear I can smell him from here."

Jack stepped out and walked towards the doglike figure "Hey! you!"

The dogthing looked around, then silently pointed to itself in confusion

"Yeah you muttface! You one of Wuya's goons??" Jack pointed at him, yelling at him

"What?! Diamond Dog not goon! Diamond Dog is Diamond Dog!" It barked back

"Yeah whatever, do you know Wuya or not?" Jack asked rudely

"Of course, Wuya bring us diamond dogs many many many gems. More than we ever had before. So we do what she says" The dog replied

"tch, sounds like a goon to me" Jack said, crossing his arms. He stood tall, he didn't want any lip from something this dumb looking.

"You just jealous you don't have as many gems as us! But go away, I'm waiting on somepony named Jack Spicer." The Dog stated

"I'm Jack Spicer you nimrod. ugh" Jack facepalmed "Let's just cut to the chase, take me to Wuya right now! I got a world to rule! And I don't want to waste time talking to a dumby like you!"

"I'm no dumby, you dumby!" The dog barked back

Jack took out his snare gun and aimed it at the dog "Say it again...come on..I dare you." He was not in the mood for games.

"what is that thing?" The Diamond Dog drew closer, to inspect it.

Jack just sighed as he shot the dog into the net "you know, I really don't have time to explain it. You're supposed to be scared when I bring out a weapon by the way." He put his snare gun away "This place is just full of morons, geez. It's like nobody knows what anything normal is around here." Jack walked forward as the dog struggled in its net, he noticed a hole and surmised that's where he had to go next "oh, and FYI. I'm going to personally use this place as my toilet once I become Emperor. Seems like a good place to dump stuff, since this is where idiots like you seem to hang out, later dumby!" Jack jumped into the hole and used his helipack to float downwards to the cavernous bottom. Where torches lit a path.

Jack walked forward at a careful and cautious pace. His villainous instinct telling him he could be ambushed at any point if he wasn't careful.

But it never came to be, for as he went down a winding path and turned the corner. He came upon a huge chamber chock full of gems. At the end of the chamber were rows of burly Diamond dogs..and at the center...awaited Wuya.

Jack walked straight into the chamber without a thought, clapping at Wuya. "Wow..I really had to see it to believe it. The mighty Wuya, resorting to teaming up with flea bitten mutts. You've really gone downhill there, you ectodoofus."

Wuya noticed him, and turned "Oh my, how surprising. You actually came, and just as soothing as ever. Your words would cut deep if I had any skin, Jack. Besides...you should have seen my previous allies. I'm sure you met them before. Afterall, you stole their dragon"

Jack cackled "Oh nooo way! You actually teamed up with those goody two shoes rejects?! oh no Wuya, you didn't go downhill. You crashed a flippin plane straight into the ground!"

Wuya sighed "Yes, well...Not one of my finer moments. But it doesn't matter now since I'll be getting my body back very soon.

"If you think those mongrels can take me, then dream on! I got enough weaponry and Wu in this coat to take on these dogbrained morons." Jack rolled up his sleeves. "so why don't you just stop delaying the inevitable already? It's getting me pretty peeved."

Wuya nodded "I agree, the time for idle chit chat has passed. Let's get down to business" Wuya turned to the dogs and yelled "BRING HER OUT!"

some of the Diamond Dogs moved aside, revealing a pit. As one, armor clad diamond dog brought out Scootaloo. Bound by rope, gagged by a hankercheif. She was struggling to break free.

Jack immediately cringed. He tried to deny himself that Wuya had any means to actually do this. That this is what she meant all along. But he couldn't. Not with the obvious staring him in the face like that. Jack stood there, stunned..silent.

"Have any words now? Jack Spicer." Wuya was getting confident now. She knew she had the upper hand.

Jack tried to look as if he didn't care "Eh? what is this exactly? Is this supposed to make me give up? Because it doesn't. Now if you excuse me...I got a world to conquer..ciao!" Jack turned to walk away.

"I see, I should have known better than to bargain with you, Jack. I suppose you won't mind then if I give the order to have her tossed into that pit?" Wuya asked him, taking great notice of him stopping midstep as she mentioned the pit.

Jack didn't turn, but he stuttered a tad in his words "W-what do I care if you toss her in a little hole?"

""Little hole", is that what you think this is Jack? I hate to burst your bubble. But that pit is quite bottomless. Anything thrown into it will definitely be lost forever...but not like you care. I'll just give the or-"

"Wait!...mngh." Jack turned to her "Fine, but not because I care or anything. What do you want?"

Wuya smirked "Oh Jack, it truly is a wonder to see you lying through your teeth about something other than pure evil. To see you actually give up your life's goal over a putrid, silly, and abhorrent sentiment such as friendship. It's almost intoxicating to see you fall so far " she began to rub her tendrils together, savoring the moment.

"Shut up Wuya! you don-" Jack yelling is cutoff by Wuya's dominance

"SILENCE! Unless your very next action is putting the Wu down. Then it'll be your little friend thats going down!" suddenly her voice became slightly softer, more mocking "Go ahead Jack, show me how wrong I am..make me bow down to the great boy emperor Jack Spicer...walk away. The world is yours..."

Chapter 21 - The Truth

Jack stood silent. He didn't know what was wrong with him. He was actually reaching into his coat. The only inkling left in his mind of the situation was that Wuya couldn't even use the items anyway without a unicorn.

Jack took out the mirror and the amulet and tossed them towards Wuya with a hefty huff "...fine...Just let her go, ok? She's got nothing to do with it"

"I'm a witch of my word, Jack. You needn't fret" Wuya suppressed her urge to laugh maniacally as Jack tossed the items to the floor. "But just in case...I'll do it AFTER I regain my body.." Wuya turned to a scrappy looking diamond dog "YOU! FETCH!" she then pointed to another dog "YOU, BRING OUT THE UNICORN!"

The dog quickly scooped up the items as another brought out a minty furred horse with a horn, she looked like she was in quite some distress. Jack stood in silent surprise.

Wuya took notice as she ordered the dog to put the amulet on the unicorn "Oh what Jack? you didn't think I wouldn't come prepared, did you? Do you realize how easy it is to kidnap these things? It's like a mother let out one hundred of her children in the middle of Detroit.....at night."

Jack didn't reply, he was just keeping his eye on things. To make sure Wuya kept her word.

Wuya ordered the unicorn to zap the mirror with everything she had, and a dog to hold the mirror and yell "Reversing Mirror" at her command.

Jack only had more chance. He was hoping Wuya wouldn't know...or at least forget about the reversing effects of the amulet's power after hitting the mirror.

The unicorn zapped the mirror with all it's magical strength. causing the mirror to deflect the shot back at the unicorn and the amulet.

The amulet's aura changed from Red to blue. as it's power flew out of the amulet as an energy orb.

"Finallllyyyyy" Wuya cried as she darted towards the energy mass. Causing some sort of chain reaction.

everyone in the room stood in awe as Wuya's ghostly form began to reshape into a physical form.

Wuya stood, in her human form,snatching the amulet from the unicorn and putting it on, then throwing her hands up in mid air. Cackling like a mad woman "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHAHAA-ahrm" she stopped for a moment "Ahh, there I go again, getting ahead of myself over such a little thing as getting my body back" Wuya chuckled as she snatched the mirror away from the diamond dog, and called out "Reversing Mirror" as she shot a huge blue orb of energy from her body back into the amulet around her neck. Making it glisten with magic, it's blue aura reverting back to red. "There we are...last thing I need is to be my own party pooper..ahrm..where was I?...ahh yes...HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA" Wuya screamed in devilish laughter as she threw her hands up in the air again.

Jack winced and groaned. "Alright, alright you got your body back. Let Scoots go already"

"Hold on Jack, don't be so hasty. Now I have to laugh at you for not even pulling one dirty little trick. Not a bomb, an army of Jackbots, you didn't even think to trick me with a fake amulet or mirror...how...noble of you...heheheHAHAHAHAHAHA" She pointed and laughed at Jack, then noticed the diamond dogs not laughing with her. "LAUGH WITH ME YOU AIRHEADED DIMWITS! IT'S FUNNY! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA"

The diamond dogs gulped and began chuckling nervously, they began to fear what they had actually gotten themselves into.

Jack turned to the side and looked down in shame. it was true, he didn't have any kind of backup plan. He went into it like a naive hero would. And Wuya was reveling in it.

"Hahahaha...hmmnn...But really Jack, I will honor our little trade.It's the least I can do after all" Wuya snapped her fingers. "Back off from the horses, boys. Let the little cretin have them."

Jack was angry with himself, half of him realized he just gave up the world for this. And yet, the other half was glad Wuya was complying...so far.

He walked past Wuya with a shameful scowl. Wuya herself just watching him pass with a insidious smile on her face.

He walked over to Scootaloo and knelt down "Don't worry Scoots, I'll get you out of this" He began to untie her, and then removed the hankerchief gag, and gave her a smile.

Unfortunately for him. She didn't return the gesture kindly. silently looking at him with fury and distaste.

"Scoots? Hey? What's the matter?" Jack began to feel nervous. Trying to retain his smile.

"....how could you" Scootaloo forced out, her words in a sobbish low tone as a tear drops from her eye.

"How could I what? come on, so I may have been a little late in rescuing you, sometime a he-"

"Don't, STOP!" Scootaloo backed away from him. "You liar! You tricked me..you tricked my friends! You're no hero! You're evil! Just like her!” Tears started to fall from her cheek.

"H-hey..w-where would you get an idea like that! come on Scoots..it's me Jack... Remember? your friend?" Jack was sweating bullets.

"Friend?! did you even ever really consider me your friend?...or...or was I just someone you thought you could control?...I can't..I Can't believe I fell for it!" Scootaloo leaned back against the wall, sobbing.

"S-scoots..come on..where would you even get an idea like that! Did Wuya lie to yo-" Suddenly Jack stopped, as he began to hear his voice ffom behind him. and the ponies’ voices too. multiple conversations going off at once.

His eyes grew wide as he turned to the side to see various holograms in the air. Wuya was standing there. her palm open as holograms flew out from it. She was giving Jack an evil grin, She had the spybot in her palm "Care to finish that sentence, Jack?"

"a...a...ah-ah" Jack was rendered speechless.

"Oh Jack, poor little insignificant Jack. You really should take better care of your toys. Leaving them around like that. Someone is just liable to happen upon them and take them for themselves. HA!" She crushed the spybot with her hand.

"You're both...EVIL MONSTERS!" Scootaloo yelled out in anger, she was furious.

"Oh I knooowww, isn't it great?" Wuya said as she checked her body to make sure everything was in place.

"Scoots...come on" Jack knew his cover was blown at this point, but he couldn't just let her walk away. He reached out to her "I didn't lie completely...I..I..really was going to have you by my side. We would be partners and-"

"Rule the world? Was that it? grrr! If you even thought I'd betray my friends, my family, my world for a monster like you then you're wrong! I've seen how bad guys act...I saw those stuff from that little robot...you would have betrayed me...I mean..if you just wanted me as your partner...then you were probably just going to betray my friends first right?" Scootaloo began sobbing.

"N-no..I kind of wanted them too..I jus-" Jack again is cut off

"Just what? JUST WHAT!? You know..forget it..Forget you! and." Scootaloo struggled and threw off her helipack "Forget this...I don't want it.I can't believe I was so stupid.....my first ever flight...and it was all because I got caught up by your lies..."

Jack, seeing her toss off the helipack, made his heart break. He couldn't let this happen "Scoots come on, I still rescued you right? Doesn't that count for something?...right?...Scoots?"

"It would if you weren't just STILL going to try the conquer Equestria...it's what you were going to do right?" Scootaloo gave him a scowl.

Jack stayed silent...he couldn't say a word.

"That's what I thought..." Scootaloo sniffed as tears flowed down. She was done. and made off for the exit. Keeping her eye on Wuya, hoping she wouldn't try to stop her.

Wuya only grinned at her, and waved "Ta-ta"

Jack couldn't say another word. he didn't even flinch when Wuya walked up to him and began to caress his hair. "Oh Jack, look at what a wreck you are. you look absolutely crushed. But you can't blame me. I had to show the little darling the truth about you before you arrived. Otherwise you'd just spirit her away again. After learning you were doing some good deeds such as providing that little pegasus with the gift of flight, I too felt the need to do a good deed and expose the truth. It's true what they say...the truth shall set you free. I feel much better about it, don't you?"

Jack just crumpled into a ball, silent.

Wuya took a step back from him and smirked "Ohhh Jack, what? No witty comeback? No evil pun? Not even going to take a swing at me? Who would have thought that losing your first true friend would hit you so hard? Then again...there were never any actual truth to it...was there? hehehehehe. Oh this was so worth it, if I was a dirty little slob I'd actually fill a cup with your tears and drink it to slate my thirst. But alas, I have things to do and no doubt that little brat went to warn her friends."

Wuya began commanding the Diamond Dogs. "Ok you Flea-bittin freaks! If you want more gems, then you will station yourself in the castle in the Everfree Forest. Except you four! We have a little cottage to go to. NOW MARCH!" Wuya commanded as she watched. She wanted to capture Fluttershy as one of her first moves. Separate one of them and they wouldn't be able to activate a power that could potentially stop her.

As the Diamond Dogs marched, Wuya took one last look at Jack "Don't feel too bad, Jack. At least I'm not throwing you in my new dungeon to rot. I like my cowering humans free range. HAHAHAHAHAHA" She cackled as she walked out with the diamond dogs.

Jack just laid there silent as the caves emptied.

after a few moments, the only noise was of Jack's sobbing...and the panic muffled yells of a tied up unicorn.

Jack went up to Scootaloo's helipack and latched on to it. He couldn't really be bothered to pay attention to the muffled cries of his panicked companion.

And there he laid. he sobbed, he whined. he thought about how he screwed up.

After a few hours. He finally noticed the muffled cries of the Unicorn and was getting annoyed "Hey! Can't you see I'm having a moment here!"

The unicorn began bouncing around, screaming. not the least bit tired, just trying to break free.

Jack sighed and got up and untied the unicorn. "There...geez, you probably could have used your magic to free yourself, you know"

The green minty unicorn said nothing and took to running in a panic. Making Jack the sole inhabitant. "....yeah well...You're welcome you st-....eh...I don't even feel like it"

Jack fell back to his position.

a day must have passed by now, maybe two. Jack had been sustaining himself on the few snacks he had packed in his own helipack.

He was in true pain. He was torn, he knew what he did was wrong. And yet, he still wanted to rule the world AND be Scootaloo's friend. But he knew he couldn't have both. He didn't even have a means to save it, even if he wanted to. He was too depressed. He was beaten.

"Gee Jack, it sure puts a frown on my face to see you so down" Said a voice, coming from Jack. It sounded eerily familiar.

"Scoots?" Jack slowly began to look behind him.

But it wasn't Scootaloo.....it was himself...It was...Good Jack. In the same well groomed hair, vest, and nice pants and shoes.

"oohhh noooo.....Have I gone crazy already?" he groaned and fell back to a slump. "I dunno how to make hallucinations go away...but go away"

"I can't!" good Jack was frowning, hurt to see his evil self so down "Not when you're in trouble like this!"

"You can, because you're a hallucination! The real you is sealed up in the Yin Yang world! So you can't possibly be him!" Jack turned to yell at him, to yell at what could possibly be himself...not his good self..just himself..

"Physically I may be gone, but you can never truly be rid of what has always existed inside you Jack. Isn't that great!?" Good Jack gave him a kind and creepy smile

"No! It's not! All you do is get in my way!" Jack yelled.

"I guess I do sometimes. But now is totally different. I'm here to help! I managed to get to you due to the friendship you built with that adorable little brown horsey!" Good Jack stated

"Yeah well, you came too late. She doesn't want to be friends with me anymore. I blew it. Not like it was real anyway, I was lying like no tomorrow" Jack frowned, and began to lay on the ground.

"ahh Jack, you gotta look at the bright side. Sure your lies caught up with you. Giving Wuya the chance to rule the world and crush your hopes and dreams at the same time" Good Jack raised his finger as he said this point.

"gee thanks, you're reaaallllyyy helping" Jack said sarcastically, turned away from Good Jack.

"Well...umm..I know that's bad. But the good thing is that your FEELINGS were true. You actually cared about her, you came here to rescue her, giving up the world. Why, I bet if she was always in danger, you'd always go to rescue her. Like the hero you told her you were!"

"Yeah, the hero I told her I was." Jack said sarcastically "I don't know if you realize this doofus, but I still want to conquer the world!...I..I just won't be getting a chance too now.."

"I figured. And, given the situation. I fully support that!" Good Jack said

"what?!" Jack turned towards his good self "Yeah right, my good half WOULD never support that."

"Normally I wouldn't...but you misunderstand. I didn't say WHICH world. I'd rather you not take over a world because that's a meanie mean thing to do. But, you only need one world right? Wouldn't ruling two be such a hassle?" Good Jack was trying to convince Jack, he had a plan

Jack mumbled as he began to think about it "...I guess. Keeping track of two conquered worlds would be annoying. I can't even handle a city really in one of those city simulator games...two worlds....eh...maybe...mnn..it would have been nice though"

"There see? So why not be the hero you made yourself out to be? Saving the world won’t...well..it could give you a lot of ouchies...but." Good Jack put his own hand to his chest "but you won't feel ouchies in here , where it counts."

"...mmnn.." Jack looked at Scootaloo's helipack "What about Scoots? she'll hate me forever no matter what I do..."

"Never say forever Jackarooni! All those happy moments, those were real. If you can just show her that you're willing to try. and tell her you're sorry. I bet everything will be a-ok!" Good Jack said, with confidence in his words.

Jack looked up at him "You really think so?"

Good Jack nodded "I know so!

Jack took another moment to think about it. Was he really willing to sacrifice any chance to take over two worlds? To actually go about being a hero in this one? Saving it from evil and tyranny? Giving up his evil ways for the ponies?...Not completely...but it was a start. He stood up, with newfound determination, "For Scoots..."

"And for everyone else right?" Good Jack asked

"Don't push it. You already got this far." Jack warned

Good Jack had a wide beaming smile on his face "good enough, it makes me feel all fuzzy wuzzy to see you like this!"

"yeah well don't get used to it. I'm only doing it for Scoots...that's it! Besides, we should be able to do it. Now that we got two Jacks" Jack said, his confidence building.

Good Jack again, nodded "I've got your back, always! I'll never let you down"

"I know you won't you creepy version of me..ahrm..anyway" Jack reeled back his hand for a high five "Go Team Jack!"

Good Jack also reeled back his hand "Go Team Jack!"

They both went for the high five, but Jack lost his footing the moment his hand went through Good Jack's hand. He fell right on his face.

Good Jack laughed nervously "O-oh yeah, I dunno if I mentioned this. But I'm only sorta here spiritually....not physically...I-I hope that isn't a problem..haha"

Chapter 22 - Breaking into Twilight's Castle... Again

Both Jacks made their way back to the surface. When they reached the outside, they looked upon the landscape from the barren, rock filled hills.

What they saw was not as the original Jack had left it.

The castle he was hiding himself in had become a giant stone tower visible from any position.the surrounding forest becoming a thicket of thorns and the plains had become a dried up husk. Wuya's rise had already began while he and Good Jack were in the cave sniveling.

However, there was still greenery outside of the dead ring of Wuya's influence.

Over at Ponyville, the green was still there. There was only dead vegetation at the border of the town farthest from Twilight's castle.

As for Twilight's castle itself. a Purple barrier was surrounding it.

"....boy, I thought a world of cute horsies wouldn't look so gloomy" Good Jack said as he surveyed the area.

"It's not that bad....it's kind of weird actually." Noted Jack, as he looked upon the sections untouched by Wuya's influence

"Weird?" Good Jack looked to Jack, confused

"ugh...use your brain! You have the same memories I do. Don't you notice anything odd?" Jack scolded good Jack

"ummmmmm" Good Jack looked around again "Well...golly, now that I think about it. The last time Wuya ruled the world. Everything was super gloomy and icky and full of badness"

"Exactly, which means Wuya ain't at full power. hmm...wonder why that is…?" Jack rubbed his chin, trying to figure it out.

"Does it have to do with that creepy amulet?" Good Jack inquired

"Nah.....Though, thinking about it. Wuya was having some problems getting used to this place before. I remember our first week here, she couldn't sense a single Wu. She could barely feel the Wu I had. She would have known right off the bat that I had the Reversing Mirror and yet, she never did..hmm" Jack then raised his finger the moment a light bulb went off in his head "EUREKA! I got it! She must not be used to how the magic works here."

Good Jack clapped "Good job Jack! That sounds super sensible! hurrah!"

Jack took a bow "Of course it is, it did come from me....but" Jack looked towards Twilight's castle "That only means we have a chance to stop Wuya. Since we don't have a puzzle box. The only way I can think of stopping her....is with some help." Jack took a deep breath "So, you mind talking to those chuckleheads? You know...to get them to help us?"

Good Jack frowned "Sorry Jack.....you're the only one who can see me....spiritually...remember?"

"ok....But you got some "Super Good Guy" advice on how to get an evil guy like me to talk them into an alliance...right?" Jack looked, getting nervous.

Good Jack smiled happily and threw his fist around "You betcha! Just go up to them with a warm, happy smile and tell them how sorry you are and that you want to help them save the world."

"Want me to get some flowers and chocolate too?" Jack gave his good self a creepily wide smile

"That sounds pr-" Good Jack gets cut off

"HEY NIMROD! I ATTACKED THEM TWICE! AND TOOK THEIR PET DRAGON AND SMACKED APPLESHROOM'S SISTER IN THE FACE!" Jack yelled , annoyed at Good Jack's suggestion

"...a-actually..it's Applebloom" Good Jack corrected him in a softspoken voice.

Jack smacked his own face open palm and slid it down "...whatever...ok...we need an ACTUAL plan."

"I'll do the best I can to think of one!" Good Jack said with confidence.

".....ok...well, let's get to the castle at least. Maybe we'll have a plan by the time we get there.”

And so they went off to Ponyville.

Upon arrival, it was clear nobody was in the town. The streets were quiet..and empty. the buildings near the entrance already starting to fall apart.

"Gee...where is everypony?" Good Jack said

Jack looked at him, and sighed "Did you seriously say everypony? Do you know how stupid that sounds?"

Good Jack smiled at him "But Jack! When in Rome! Do what the romans do! and everypony does sound ever so cheerful!"

Jack started to tap his forehead, completely astounded. "I can't believe you were ever a part of me.....I seriously can't believe it."

"Everypony has a good side! And I'm yours! hehe" Good Jack giggled

"...Which is why I was happy to be rid o-...ahh..forget it.." Jack huffed, he didn't want to argue about it.

They arrived at the barrier surrounding Twilight’s castle. Jack gave it a knock. "...solid magic alright...any ideas how to get past it?"

"maybe it's a barrier that protects from evil...if you have pure, nice, cute thoughts. Maybe you could push through!" Good Jack suggested

Jack shrugged "Worth a shot....ok.....so what should I think about?"

"why don't you think of Scootaloo....She makes you the happiest, right?" Good Jack raised his point

"hmmmm...Well, if you suggested it..it must be good..alright..good thoughts...good thoughts.." Jack closed his eyes and began to think.

He thought of her face when she started flying around for the first time, she thought of her happiness during their talks, she thought of her excitement when she won the showdown "........."

Jack started to step back, silent, a sense of seriousness written across his face. "....."

"Scootaloo...You were my only real friend...." Jack muttered

Good Jack smiled "I'm your friend too right?"

"No...SHUT UP...trying to concentrate...where was I....right....you were my only real friend, and I screwed up...I promise...some way...some how. I'll make it up to you....and...ngh.....save the world...I guess..."

Jack looked at the barrier, and charged it with these thoughts in mind "I'M COMING THROUGH!"

"GO JACK GO!" Good Jack cheered!

"I think it's gonna work! I THINK ITS GO-OOMPH" Jack crashes into the barrier and falls backwards onto his back.

".......or it could be a normal kind of barrier that keeps everything out...ehehe..." Good Jack chuckled nervously.

Jack just laid there, looking at the gloomy sky. "Great....that didn't work..any more bright ideas genius?"

Good Jack again began to think "Well...let's see...what if we dig super deep and pop out from the inside like a mole?...is that good?"

"We don't have any digging tools. I don't even have enough scrap to make...wait..." Jack stopped and looked over at the town. "We got a whole town to plunder for scrap! I can make a drilling machine in no time! HAHAHA...Jack, You're a genius!"

Good Jack smiled "Right back at ya Jack, If I could..I'd give you a big ole hug!"

"Save it...start looking through the houses for anything I can use so we can save some time. I'll pick up what I can, and you tell me where I can find more. We gotta be as quick as possible...got it?" Jack said

Good Jack nodded "got it!"

And so they went. collecting items around the town to make a drilling machine. It actually didn't take them too long. Good Jack was starting to feel bad they were taking the ponys' things to make it. But if Wuya won, she'd probably destroy everything anyway.

After enough was acquired. Jack went to work to making a drilling add on to his helipack. Wuya's influence was slowly encroaching onto the town. But wasn't anywhere close to the castle yet. "Ok...it's a little hasty...but it'll do...Follow me!"

Jack activated the drill and went deep down into the earth. he went deep enough to where the barrier wasn't seeping through. and went forward and up to the other side.

He broke through to the surface and cackled "Stupid barrier! No way you're getting the best of Jack Spicer!"

"Bravo! Bravo!" Good Jack clapped, already on the other side himself.

Jack looked at him in amazement "HOW DID?! WHAT?! HOW...HOW DID YOU GET THROUGH SO FAST?!"

Good Jack shrugged "I...just walked.."

Jack covered his face, realizing his own foolishness "..spiritual...right...ok then...make yourself useful and get in there and tell me where the princess is. She's the one I gotta talk to."

"Righty-o!" Good Jack saluted as he turned and ran through the castle doors.

Jack stood silently waiting for his good half. He was trying to think better thoughts and keep his patience. If he was going to do this, he had to hold back as much of his evil tendencies as possible.

After some time, Good Jack walked back through the doors. "Hi!"

"Don't "Hi!" m-... I mean...uhm..How's it lookin in there?" Jack took a breath, keeping his patience.

"Well.....I think all the townsponies are being kept in there for their safety. The princess is at the top...Her horn is all glowy. It looks pretty bad. I heard her talking that one of her friends went to some other kingdoms to get help. and two others are looking for a friend that never made it. The only one with her is a pink one, trying to keep her spirits up....I wish I could help too." Good Jack made a long face, he didn't like the situation at all.

Jack mustered up some empathy, the best he could "I see...well, that's why we're here. We're going to help them out and save the world...then at one point, conquer our world...but for now...we save this one..yeah...That sounds like what a good guy would say...right?" Jack smiled a half crooked smile

"umm..close...but..well" Good Jack gave a thumbs up "At least you're giving it your best!"

Jack narrowed his eyes at his good self, not very happy that his response wasn't "It's perfect!" But...there was nothing he could do about it. "Ok...so what should we do now?"

"I think we should follow what your heart thinks! The heart always knows" Good Jack said

".......My heart is telling me that it wants to burn you for making that comment" Jack gave a look of disgust

".....Well...um...I don't think that would help us....So...umm..try to think more positive...and with less arson" Good Jack chuckled nervously

Jack wanted to make another mean comment. But he held back "....ok..I'll try that. Anyway, since I doubt she wouldn't be happy to see me anyway. I say we just fly up to the top and go through her window. How does that sound?"

"ummm...Won't she be mad that you're barging in?" Good Jack stated

"Not like knocking would be any better...We gotta force ourselves in....for the good of things." Jack took a deep breath and prepared for flight "It's the only way"

"If it's what your heart is telling you! Then I'll follow you! I trust you ! I know you can make it work!" Good Jack said, as he began to float upwards

Jack simply nodded as he flew up, asking his other self what window he should fly through.

Good Jack pointed to the highest one. Jack nodded, and flew right to the side of the window and peered inside.

Twilight was there, upset. Pinkie trying to console her. It seemed she was worried about Fluttershy suddenly going missing. Worried about the castle suddenly springing up. And wishing she could do something more than hold up a barrier. Pinkie telling her she's doing the right thing, protecting the ponies of Ponyville and that Applejack or Rarity would find Fluttershy soon. That she probably got caught up trying to evacuate the animals.

Jack took a deep breath. "here we go...at least she can't blast me...wooo..ok"

Jack flew through the window, Good Jack following. And landed just out of range of a bucking from Pinkie Pie should things get violent. "Heya!...how's it going..haha.." Jack waved weakly.

"YOU!?" Twilight called out in angered surprise, she immediately entered a battle ready pose "YOU'RE THE ONE WHO TOOK FLUTTERSHY. AREN'T YOU?! HOW DID YOU-"

Pinkie gave a hug to Twilight and nuzzled her "Calm down Twilight, remember...you gotta focus...let me handle this, ok?"

Twilight growled, but calmed down. she had to keep focus on the barrier. She stepped back as far away as Jack as possible. Keeping both eyes on him.

"now..." Pinkie, still smiling turned to Jack. Then suddenly became hostile "YOU'RE THE ONE WHO TOOK FLUTTERSHY! AREN'T YOU! SHE WAS PONYNAPPED BY YOU! WASN'T SHE?! WE KNOW YOU WERE TEAMED UP WITH THAT WUYA! HOW COULDN'T I SEE IT! YOU...YOU...POOPHEAD! THERE..I SAID IT!"

"WOAH!" Jack stepped back covering his face and nether regions! "IT WASN'T ME I SWEAR! PLEASE DON'T HURT ME! I CAME TO HELP!"

"Came to help, huh! Yeah right! Scootaloo already told us how you were leading her down the road of eeeviiilllll! You lied to her! So how are we supposed to trust you now? huh! huh! If you even come close to Twilight..so help me!..I'll..I'll..." Suddenly she pulled her party cannon close "I'll actually shoot a cannonball out of this thing!" She was huffing in deep anger "Why don't you just confess now?! Tell us what you're planning! and Maybe...just maybe..I won't blast you!"

Jack got on his knees, he would do anything to get her to believe him at this point. "Please! Please! Don't hurt me! I mean it! What do I have to do to prove it!?"

Twilight stepped up, but still kept her distance. Her horn lit up like a lightbulb from keeping the barrier up "You take one of my best friends! You attack my home...TWICE! And you come here expecting us to just trust you? no...Pinkie..Blast him!" Twilight didn't want to listen to him anymore, she looked like she was going berserk.

"What? Really...that's kinda dark..isn't it Twilight...that's not really what a princess of friendship would say, I think?" Pinkie said

"Really? Weren't you going to blast him anyway?! Just do it!...I..." Twilight sighed "He's pure evil...even trying to take fillies under him..I don't see how we can trust him. If it's a trap, then the ponies of Ponyville could suffer because I decided to trust him."

"...o-ok....But..umm...Which Jack should I blast? There's two of them...I think the other one is a creepy robot..though..I gotta admit..he has a really genuine smile!" Pinkie aimed her party cannon at the original Jack

Both Jack and Twilight said in surprise "Which Jack?!"

Pinkie was looking down a iron sight that flipped up at the end of her cannon "Yeah, there's two of em!"

"You can see me?" Good Jack pointed to himself, in wonderment

Pinkie nodded "Of course I can, you're standing right there!"

Twilight was trying to see what Pinkie was seeing "Pinkie....there's only one Jack. Who are you even talking to?"

Pinkie pointed towards Good Jack "Him! Don't you see him?"

"...noooo....Pinkie..are you ok?" Twilight was reaaallly trying..thinking maybe it was cloaked somehow.

Jack looked towards Pinkie and pointed towards his good self "you can see him?"

Pinkie nodded "mhmm! which is weird...he looks like you...but he looks...so nice. It's bizarre"

Twilight put her hoof to her face "Ok what's going on?...what are you both looking at, exactly?"

Jack took bit into this opportunity hard like it was candy. Maybe he couldn't convince them. But his half that is pure good should be able to do it no problem. At least someone else could see him! He ran over to his good side in a cowardly shuffle "Ok Ok! If you could see him, then you gotta know. He's my good side...100% good and trustworthy!"

Pinkie inched up to his good self, and gave him a good hard stare "If you're really good...then...what's a good number?"

Good Jack leaned down and gave her a happy smile "All numbers are good! Everypony should know that!"

"wow! not even Wuya got that right!" Pinkie turned to Twilight and waved "We can trust him! He got the right answer!"

"Who got the right answer?! wh-. Do you really expect me to believe there's somepony else in this room?" Twilight said, skeptical of the whole thing.

After a little consideration. Pinkie came up with a way to prove it by politely asking Twilight to hold something out of view and let her guess what it is. The only way she'd know is if Good Jack told her. Proving he was there. Pinkie also kept her cannon trained on Jack. Not actually trusting him.Twilight hid a picture of her and spike close to her out of Pinkie and Jack's view. Good Jack floated over and told Pinkie what she was holding, even remarking some small marks on the frame from Twilight's tears. Pinkie took the guess, and got it right. Twilight couldn't accept it, and demanded every detail of what she was holding. Which, with the help of Good Jack. She was able to get down to every last detail. Finally...Twilight was starting to believe.

Chapter 23 - The Plan to Defeat Wuya

"ok...so then...let me get things straight. There are two of these "Jacks". And the one I can't see is good...Do I have it so far?" Twilight looked to Pinkie for confirmation.

Pinkie nodded "mhmm! looks like it to me!"

"so then...The Jack I see...since he isn't the good one...is a bad one right?" Twilight looked to Jack as she spoke, still asking Pinkie however.

"I think so...I mean" Pinkie looked towards Jack "You did some really awful things. It didn't even look like you cared about hitting Applejack with your stick thingy."

"Ok, one. I hit her with my Monkey Staff, get it right!...and two...eeheh..it was kind of funny. She didn't even see it com-...ahrm...yeah" Jack was having a hard time keeping his nature in check.

"mnnn..come on Jack, you can't go around being evil like that. You have to make friends with the ponies remember?" Good Jack reminded him.

"Hey! It's not my fault that she didn't realize the showdown wasn't over! I'm innocent!" Jack barked at his good self, feeling he was being ganged up on.

"Was it her first showdown?" Good Jack asked

"Yeah...so what?" Jack saw no problem in this

"for shame, tsk tsk tsk. Taking advantage of someone new to showdowns is awful." Good Jack shook his head in shame.

"Yeah, what he said!" Pinkie added

"....what did he say?" Twilight asked, annoyed that she couldn't fully keep up with the conversation. Due to being unable to see or hear the other Jack.

"He said that Jack...that that Jack" Pinkie pointed towards Jack "was pretty much awful for taking advantage of Applejack's newness..to...the..erm...xiaolono thingy!"

"....yeah...that does sound pretty awful." Twilight was told about the showdown, but even she was skeptical on how an arena could sprawl out from nowhere. she assumed it was some sort of cheap trick.

"OH COME ON! AREN'T WE SUPPOSED TO BE DOING SOMETHING IMPORTANT?...like I dunno"....STOPPING WUYA!?" Jack was getting sick of being ganged up on, and tried to shift the conversation.

"..we should be....but the problem is you" Twilight points to Jack "You can't still expect us to trust you after everything you have done. I think we can handle Wuya without you. If your "good self" is truly good, then he should be the one to help us, Not you....We know enough about you to know how you operate. You're lucky Rarity and Applejack are out there right now. I don't know how they'd react knowing you were fooling their little sisters all this time...and poor Scootaloo..."

"And what?! I had a schedule to keep and a world to rule. Anything goes when it come to me!" Jack said, with dominance and pride.

Good Jack rushed up to Jack, and tried to appeal to Jack's sensibilities. "Jack! WHAT ARE YOU DOING?! YOU CAN'T SAY SUCH MEAN BAD THINGS! WE ARE TRYING TO MAKE FRIENDS!"

"I am trying! I'm being honest aren't I?!" Jack retorted, and then turned to Twilight "And another thing "Your Highness". I really did consider Scootaloo my friend! and Applebloom! and Sweetie Belle! But especially Scootaloo.Sure I was going to make her my top general....sure I wanted her by my side while we destroy things together....sure..I..lied to her" Jack slowed his speech as he said that, bringing some hurt into his heart. A feeling that Good Jack is able to feel. "But...my FEELINGS were true! You wanna know how true? I gave up conquering the world myself so I could make sure she was ok!" Jack was stepping up and shoving his finger at the vulnerable Twilight "So you can take your little imperial attitude and shove it! I'm going to help you whether you like it or not! Besides...you can't leave anything up to him!" Jack kept his eyes locked to Twilight's as he pointed to his good self.

Twilight's ears drooped down, a little fearful of Jack's encroachment. "W-why not?"

"Because, despite him being as good looking and smart as I am......He's also a gigantic wuss. He even takes time to clean his own toenails!" Jack's eye twitched

"w-well...it's good to have clean hygiene" Good Jack tried to defend himself.

"waaaaaiiiitttt...I just realized something important" Pinkie interjected as she stepped up in front of Jack.

Good Jack, Jack, and Twilight looked upon Pinkie for her supposed wisdom.

"...so....if he cleans his toenails...does that mean yours are super gross?" Pinkie asked Jack.

Twilight slapped her own forehead with her hoof "Pinkie....."

"Yea-ah and? So? I don't have time to do that you know..I got important...things...a-" Jack was trying to defend his actions until Twilight slammed down her hooves. Getting all their attention.

"CAN WE STOP, PLEASE!?" Twilight yelled, and then took a moment to catch her breath "WE DO HAVE A CRISIS GOING ON IF ALL OF YOU FORGOT!"

They all stared at her silently
Twilight brushed up and fixed her mane, clearing her throat, feeling a little surprised with herself. "ahrm...anyway. mnn...If you are that adamant in helping. I guess..I guess we can try to trust you. But..did you really do what you said you did? Did you give up the world to rescue Scootaloo?....or is that a lie?" Twilight had to know

Jack took a depressed sigh, knowing that he gave up his life's goal did depress him "yeah....I did...I had the stuff I needed. I just needed to make a power suit to utilize it all. But Wuya one upped me...So you can think what you want. Am I still Jack? evil boy genius...yeah. To the end. but..." Jack took in a huge breath, and then sighed "But...I guess you can call me Jack...Sorta good boy genius...at least for this world...only for this world. I'm still gonna try to conquer my world...but..I don't need to rule two worlds right? I mean, you can't fault me, right? I am telling the truth" Jack was feeling unsure now, he didn't want to lie, in fear of retaliation.

"Couldn't you...you know...not rule either world? I don't see why you have to be so evil" Twilight was now trying to convince him to fully change sides "I'm su-" Jack cuts her off

"Save it for somebody who cares about that mushy stuff. You're lucky i'm willing to be a sorta good guy in your world. Besides, you're gonna need someone as evil as I am if you even want to get close to Wuya. I mean..come on, I stomped all of you and I didn't even need to bring my A-game" Jack crossed his arms.

"He's got a point Twilight, he did manage to nearly rule the world and raid the castle twice.." Pinkie said

"...That's right?! Ugh...how could I forget! What did you to Spike!" Twilight said, her anger suddenly raising.

"Woah woah! He's ok. sort of left him enough food to survive a few years I think....well..at least I hope he's ok...since...I think Wuya has him now...that's not a problem right?" Jack chuckled nervously

"HE'S WHERE!?! WITH WUYA! YOU...YOOUU!" Twilight's horn began to glow near it's tip.

"H-he's probably ok...ehehe" Jack was getting worried, he didn't like the angry look in Twilight's eyes.

Pinkie could see Twilight was losing her grip. She was about to drop the barrier to blast Jack herself out of the anger she possibly lost Spike forever. Pinkie jumped in front of Jack and held her hooves up "WAIT TWILIGHT! DON'T DO IT! YOU GOTTA CALM DOWN!....I know you're really stressed out and scared...we all are...But I think Jack is reeeeaaalllllyyyy trying to be good...in his own way...Please...maybe we should give him another chance?"

Twilight's anger dissolved into worry and fear "But..but..Spike...and what if..Fluttershy..?"

Pinkie rushed up to give her friend a hug. "It'll be ok. We just have to believe."

Good Jack, getting caught in the moment asks Pinkie to tell Twilight that if he could, he'd hug her too. in which Pinkie relays the message.

Jack just stands there, tapping his foot.

"ahrm ahrm" Good Jack coughed to get Jack's attention, then gestured at Jack to hug them

Jack looked to his good self with disapproval "what?"

"Stop being such a meanie pants and show some compassion! I know you have it in you...or else I wouldn't have been able to find you!" Good Jack was really trying to make this all work

"Listen he-" Jack was about to tell his good self off

But his Good self rushed up and told him off "NO YOU LISTEN! STOP BEING SUCH A MEAN MEANIE PANTS AND GET IN THERE AND HUG! AND BE NICER!"

"B-but..h-" Jack tried to talk, but good Jack was finally having none of it.

"NO BUTS MISTER! IF YOU CAN’t BE NICE THEN THIS THE WHOLE WORLD IS DOOMED! AND EVERYPONY WILL BE SAD FOREVER! DO YOU WANT THAT? DO YOU WANT SCOOTALOO TO BE SAD?"

"n-no....b-" Jack couldn't get a word in, his good self was literally fuming from the nose

"AND WHAT?! YOU CAN MAKE FRIENDS WITH HER AGAIN IF YOU SHOW HER YOU CARE! YOU KNOW WHY YOU EVEN CARE? BECAUSE YOU MADE A WONDERFUL CONNECTION! AND IF YOU CAN TELL HER THE TRUTH, AND STILL BE THE JACK SHE BECAME FRIENDS WITH. THEN GUESS WHAT?! IT MEANS YOU HAVE A CHANCE! FRIENDS ALWAYS GIVE FRIENDS A CHANCE! NOW..GET IN THERE..AND HUG THEM!"

"..u-...o-ok..." Jack nervously stepped away from his good self. and joined in on the hug, he felt very awkward.

Good Jack immediately calmed down and gave a wide smile "See, don't you feel all ooey gooey mcpooty now?"

"......sorta...I guess" Jack didn't know how to feel

"...uhh....why are yo-" Twilight said, before Pinkie gently shushed her

"Just let it go Twilight, this is a good thing. It means we made a connection." Pinkie said as she hugged tighter, raising her hoof to get Jack into it.

It was the most awkward hug ever to be seen.

After the hug, things actually managed to calm down enough to have a discussion on what to do next.

"Ok, if you say that having you be...well..evil..is advantageous...then you're going to have to explain." Twilight stated, wanting to hear what Jack actually could bring to the table.

"Easy, Wuya is one of the most evil forces known to my dimension...next to me of course. But still pretty bad. She is bad to the very bone. ergo, she thinks of nothing but evil. And since I know evil. I could actually anticipate most of what she probably is gonna do. Like right now, if you look out there" Jack pointed out the window "She hasn't actually made any attacks yet because she's biding her time until she's at full power."

"How do you know she isn't at full power?" Twilight inquired, she wanted to learn as much as she can.

"Simple, she didn't reduce the entire world to rubble and rocks yet. She's done this once before. And it was pretty instant that time. I can only guess her magic is having trouble adjusting to the amulet's power." Jack surmised

"Right, so we have time. How was she beat last time?" Twilight asked

"Well, through some time travel and crazy shenanigans. We..that's right..I helped save the world too!...but yeah...we trapped her in a puzzle box." Jack stated

"Alright. I'm with you so far.So we can take advantage of her weakened state. and capture her in the puzzle box right?" Twilight asked, feeling hopeful.

"yup!......you wouldn't have some kind of puzzle box...would you?" Jack asked, being completely serious

"WHAT?! I THOUGHT YOU WOULD HAVE ONE!" Twilight yelled at him

"IT'S NOT LIKE I CARRY ONE AROUND! YOU'RE MAGICAL PONIES! DON'T YOU TRAP YOUR BAD GUYS IN BOXES?" Jack yelled back

"NO! WE JUST SEAL THEM UP FOR ONE THOUSAND YEARS..PERI-...ugh...why are we yelling?" Twilight did her best to calm down

"I dunno...tensions are high I guess....anyway..since we don't have a box. The only way I can think of beating her is getting the amulet off of her. Meaning one of us has to get close enough to grab it, I think that's what's actually giving her body form" Jack stated, as he calmed down himself

"I'm so proud, he didn't continue yelling" Good Jack said, with hope in his eyes.

"Does he yell a lot?" Pinkie asked

"Only when he's losing...or scared...or wanting mommy..or getting stung,kicked,zapped,stuck,popped,beat,sma-" Good Jack stopped the moment he noticed Jack was giving him a glare. "ehehe...but he always manages to get back on his feet.."

"...anyway, what we need to do is sneak into Wuya's castle straight from the bottom. Drill right into her dungeon. She'd never expect us to go where she'd want to throw us into. Then, free any of your friends she might have in there. Meanwhile, we need an army outside her castle to distract her. There's nothing Wuya loves more than flaunting her stupid evil butt around. Her guards are pretty dumb, and her dog..ally...whatever things don't look too smart either.If we can get into her throne room. We could sneak up and take the amulet." Jack laid out his plan clearly

"Wait..distract? I don't want to use any innocent ponies as fodder!" Twilight protested

"You don't have a choice princess, If we don't do something a "Good Guy" would normally do..like..you know...thinking you can win with an army. Then she's going to think we are actually planning to sneak in. We have to make it look like that WE THINK we can just roll up and kick her rear. When in actuality we are sneaking up to her rear to kick it." Jack tried to convince Twilight this was the best way.

"But to sacrifice that many..." Twilight didn't want to do it.

"If they can actually fight then they should be able to survive Wuya's stupid rock guards. Face it Princess, unless you got some kind of power that can blast that whole castle to kingdom come. Then we are going to have to be sneaky about it." Jack was sure of it.

Twilight did have a power, the power of her friends, the rainbow power. But without Fluttershy....it wouldn't be usable.

"speaking of which, where is your army anyway? I haven't seen one actual guard here..since..you know..I raided this place...twice" Jack looked around

"I..don't have any..I never felt the need to...I don't have an army either." Twilight frowned, if Jack was right. Then..

"What?! How do you...ok never mind. The townspeople w-"

Twilight stops him
"HOLD IT!......If you think I'm going to put the lives of the ponies of Ponyville at stake. Then get it out of your head right now. I won't allow it." Twilight was adamant about that

"Then what army do you suppose we use, Princess?" Jack said in a rather nasty tone.

"...Rainbow Dash is on the way with Canterlot and the Crystal Empire's finest. If...If your plan is the only way...then..I...then we'll have to go with them" Twilight didn't want to that either. But they were trained in combat, she had to come to terms that they would indeed lay down their lives for Equestria.

"We don't have time for that! Every moment, Wuya gets stronger! We gotta do this soon..or else we might not get the chance. I don't feel like Wuya getting the best of me! I can't let that happen!" Jack gripped his fist.

"...then I'll be the bait.." Twilight looked up at Jack, her eyes serious. She would not sacrifice her friends or her people.

"Twilight, you can't! What about the barrier?" Pinkie gasped, scared that Twilight would even think such a thing.

"It won't mean much if what Jack said is true. If Wuya is that powerful. Then eventually she'll tear right through it. And if she needs to be distracted...well...there's no better distraction than the princess herself. Blindly defending her subjects...that's how an evil doer would see it..right Jack?" Twilight looked to him, for assurance

Jack was surprised, she seemed to be getting it. And he had no qualms with her sacrificing herself. "Right, that would definitely work too. Now, we just need a team to actually go in and grab the amulet."

"Right...So what exactly will you do when you get inside? What's the plan?" Twilight wanted it detail by detail.

"ok...first, we release any prisoners Wuya has and let them go through the tunnel I would make..I guess..since...I guess saving people is..what a hero would do...anyway, after that.We got to get past whatever guards she's got. Shouldn't be a problem since my good self could scope things out without being a problem."

Good Jack chimed in "I'm gonna be able to help?! YAYYY! I'M USEFUL!"

Jack sighed "Yeah yeah...you're only useful because nobody can see you...ahrm..anyway. We sneak into Wuya's throne room. and just...distract her and take the amulet...easy stuff"

"ok...but..how exactly will you distract her to take the amulet." Twilight needed to know this. She had to make sure all bases were covered.

"..well...I dunno....by..uhh..distracting her?" Jack shrugged, he didn't exactly have that part thought through well.

"but how are you going to distract her?" Twilight asked more forcibly

"I dunno ok?! Wuya is the kind of girl to shoot first and ask questions later. If she vaporizes the distraction super fast...then..well...we'd be next.." Jack gulped.

"......I see..Wuya..I can't believe she managed to trick all of us...I really thought she was good. But I guess I only believed her because she said she was trying to stop you too" Twilight looked down in shame.

"It's ok Twilight, we were all fooled...even me! And for missing that..I'd be happy to volunteer for the diversion!" Pinkie smiled

"Pinkie you can't! What if-" Pinkie raised her hoof to Twilight to stop her

"ahhh, don't worry about ole Pinkie Pie. There's one thing I actually did notice about Wuya...and that's" Pinkie Pie suddenly put on some sunglasses " she can't groove"

"what does that..." Jack started

"...even mean?" Twilight ended

"Oh I get it! You're going to make Wuya angry and then dodge all her stinky blasty beams with funky fresh style?" Good Jack understood

"Yup! wow Other Jack! You really get me!.....I wish I could give you a hug" Pinkie looked at him, giving him a happy grin

Good Jack's eyes glisten in happy sorrow "I wish I could give you a hug too, Pinkie Pie!"

Jack rolled his eyes "This is wrong on so many levels...."

although Twilight was reluctant. She'd have to make due with it for now. She wished she at least had RD for support as well given her speed. She at least suggested to wait on Rarity and Applejack as they should be returning to the castle soon. Jack was going to need his team. And they would have to do. The fight against Wuya...was about to begin.

Chapter 24 - A Heart to Heart with Twilight

"Ok...let's go over it one more time. I'm going to distract Wuya, basically playing the...er..."Foolish good guy". Your team is going to drill in from the bottom and work your way to the top. Pinkie is going to distract her from the inside, and you're going to snatch the amulet..right?" Twilight was making sure she understood everything

Jack nodded"Right, without the amulet. Wuya should go back to being her stupid ghostly self. It's the only thing that should be holding her together."

"Right...I know about those Wu things you had. The mirror itself was actually quite amazing. Reflecting my magic back like it was nothing. I also know about the staff that can change your form. So then, what item do you have to get the amulet then? I'm actually really intrigued, given the amulet's properties." Twilight looked to Jack with curiousness in her eyes.

"What are you talking about?...I'm just gonna yank it off of her like I would candy from a baby....It's actually a little harder than they say, but I can still do it." Jack stated, unknowing of the miscalculation he made.

"...You're joking right?" Twilight just realized Jack didn't have a very pertinent piece of information on the Alicorn Amulet.

"What, about taking candy? No, It really is sorta tough. Some babies have a really good grip on them." Jack said, feeling a small amount of shame in admitting it.

"NOT THAT! ON CELESTIA'S NAME! PLEASE TELL ME YOU KNOW THAT YOU CAN'T JUST TAKE THE AMULET BY FORCE. PLEASE TELL ME YOU ACTUALLY HAVE A WAY OF TAKING IT!" Twilight suddenly bursted in anger. And why not? The situation was looking grim, and Wuya sounded more powerful than even the likes of Tirek.

"Geez, you don't have to yell. You act like yanking an amulet off is THAT hard. If she's thoroughly distracted then it'll be as-"

Suddenly Twilight interjected, it seems he didn't know.

"Jack....the amulet just can't be "Taken off". The one wearing it has to take it off of their own free will. I thought you had one of those magical items that might have rectified that problem" Twilight was getting nervous. The plan had a huge hitch.

"...oh...umm.." Jack had nothing "Well...we might be sort of doomed then...hehe..Unless you have...maybe something that can get it off?" Jack was getting nervous. He thought it'd be simple

"....no" Twilight narrowed her eyes at him, in disbelief he'd miss such an important detail.

"oh..well, that's ok then........." Jack stood silently for a moment. Then entered a panic "WE'RE ALL DOOMED!!! AHHHHHHH! THERE'S NO WAY WE CAN WIN! AHHHHHH!" Jack started running around the room in a panic, causing Pinkie to join in.

Good Jack sighed "So much negativity....Well...I'm just as smart as Jack. Maybe my noggin can come up with something...hmmm..let's see..." Good Jack sat and began to think.

"Pinkie..er..Jack..Pinkie..please..Jack...please..stop..stop...STOOOOOOP!" Twilight roared "THIS IS NO TIME TO PANIC!"

They both stopped, but Jack simply ran up to Twilight, fear in his eyes "IT'S THE PERFECT TIME TO PANIC! WE'RE ALL GONNA BE BLASTED TO SMITHEREENS HERE!"

Twilight tried to focus on her patience, to not lose her cool again. "..well..maybe" she gritted her teeth "If somepony didn't go around hurting others and taking things that aren't there's. This wouldn't have happened in the first place!"

"IT'S NOT MY FAULT YOU AND YOUR FRIENDS COULDN'T DEFEND ANYTHING TO SAVE YOUR LIVES! WE'RE DOOMED, YOU HEAR ME!? THERE'S NO WAY TO GET THE AMULET BACK! SHE'D NEVER GIVE IT UP!"

"...EUREKA! I GOT IT!" Good Jack raised his finger "We can't take the amulet from her! But there is a way she can still lose it! and that would be a Xiaolin Showdown! It's perfect!"

Jack stopped his yelling to look at his good self "Are you stupid? or just blind. We can't just challenge her to a showdown. We would need something she'd want. And she has everything she needs! I don't understand how any version of me can't see how doomed we are right now!" Jack whined

"Don't be so pessimistic! You gotta think positive! You may not have anything she needs. But we already know magical items here resonate with the Shen Gong Wu. And Wuya, as crafty as she is, still has no way of getting out of this world. And I dunno, your memories are also my memories at this point Jack ole buddy. And I don't remember Wuya taking a shine to this place." Good Jack was seemingly on to something, something Jack himself couldn't see.

"What's your point? That's just going to make her burn anything and everything then. Making everything even more painful and deathy and horrible!" Jack saw no more hope.

"Come on Jack. Don't you remember a mention of a certain comic book?" Good Jack was trying to get him to realize they might have something Wuya would want.

".....sorta" Jack rubbed his chin. "I remember something like that...WAIT!..WAIT! I DO REMEMBER! I SEE WHAT YOUR SAYING!WE CA-"

Twilight was confused to the highest level. Not being able to hear both sides of the conversation.
Pinkie however cuts off Jack. Realizing as well what Good Jack was getting at."WE CAN CHALLENGE HER TO A SHOWDOWN FOR THE COMIC. SINCE SHE MIGHT BE ABLE TO DO SOME CREEPY MAGIC STUFF TO NOT ONLY OPEN UP A PORTAL TO HER WORLD THROUGH IT! BUT ALL WORLDS! LETTING HER HAVE THE POSSIBILITY OF GAINING INFINITE POWER!...am I right other Jack?" Pinkie looked to him with a happy, confident smile.

"That's right Pinkie Pie! Wow, you're cute AND smart. I wish I could make macaroni art with you RIGHT NOW!" Good Jack said in infinite glee

"That sounds great! You're super nice too Good Jack. I'd throw you a party even if all the other guests couldn't see you! They'd still know about you and how nice you are" Pinkie said, with a mirthful giggle
"gee, that sounds swell" Good Jack said in a dreamy way

"..ugh...I was about to say that too you know" Jack crossed his arms and looked away, then slightly tilted his head towards Pinkie "I'd be invited too right?"

"Only if you were on your bestest best behavior! No evil stuff!” Pinkie said.

"..can..somepony tell me what's going on...please?" Twilight was very lost.

"...isn't it obvious? Look..let me explain. a Xiaolin Showdown isn't some illusion. It's for real and..." Jack explained the plan to Twilight the best he could, and how showdowns worked. "...basically, Wuya wouldn't want to be stuck here for too long. And she has a way with magic. Knowing her, she'd find a way to use that comic book thing to open up a multiversal portal."

"....I see. That might work...but...it only sounds like a chance. From what you just said. If we lose. We lose the comic book. and...well..everything from that point. Is it really worth the risk?" Twilight was unsure

"...It's better than nothing. Wuya at full power and with no puzzle box. She's going to be unstoppable. No doubts about it" Jack punched his fist into his other hand "That's why we gotta do it now while she's weakest. Otherwise she'll just decimate us in the showdown. That's why we need a good challenge, something someone could definitely beat Wuya in."

"In that case. Let's just wait for Applejack and Rarity. If the challenge itself is important. Than we will need all the input we can get on choosing just the right one." Twilight turned to Pinkie "Pinkie Pie, can you go get the comic book please?"

Pinkie saluted "righty-o! Come on other Jack, I'll show ya around!"

Good Jack smiled and followed Pinkie "Yay! I like princess castles! They are always soooooooo adorable!"

They left

Jack found a seat and silently looked at Twilight.

Twilight just stood there, silently looking at him.

".........Can I ask you something...Jack?" Twilight said, there was still something bothering her.

"yeah. I don't see why not. We're partners now" Jack said as he began to slowly look around the room.

"It's about Scootaloo....Why? Why did you lead her on like that? I want to know, and don't lie to me. I just want the full and honest truth. None of that "evil" stuff." Twilight, had to know. The hurt in Scootaloo was more than what she saw in Sweetie Belle and Applebloom when they found out.

"Why?...come on, don't ask me that. I already screwed up already. Can't you just accept I did it for evil?" Jack sighed, he wasn't exactly in the mood.

"no...because then you wouldn't have went to save her. I don't really get what's going on with this "good and evil" versions. But I do understand that you had more of a reason than some evil plan. Just tell me what it is, nopony else has to know."

"Yeah...no, You're not my psychiatrist.....not like I have had any or anything....ahrm" Jack looked away, giving a small cough.

"Then how about we call it even for taking one of my best friends? Twilight tried another route

"Dream on! I feel no guilt taking that smug reptile. Especially after he just decided to just loaf around and eat gems all day." Jack retorted

"So? You still took him!" Twilight was curious, she wanted to learn more about her out of world partner since he was currently on their side. And didn't seem to be plotting anything. If only he'd budge. She was getting annoyed with his persistent resistance.

"..fine..whatever..one question. But only to call it squaresies" Jack sighed, rubbing his temple. annoyed he even is going along with it at all.

"..ok..hrmm" Twilight thought carefully. She needed a question that encompassed everything she needed to know. "....Why did you bond with Scootaloo the most? What made her more important to you than Applebloom or Sweetie Belle. From my understanding, you treated her more like your friend than some evil protege.You even gave her the ability to fly...using one of your contraptions no doubt. You didn't need to do that if you wanted her to be in some evil scheme."

"....." Jack turned away

Twilight stomped her hoof "Don't turn away from me! We had a deal."

"...tch...fine. You wanna know? You really want the truth?" Jack looked at her angrily. Waiting for a response.

"Yes..I'd like the truth." Twilight nodded, intimidated by his resistant attitude.

"It's because she actually looked up to me. She genuinely wanted to be around me. She didn't even complain when I gave her her own helipack. She actually liked it. She used it..I don't think she ever even took it off.I've hung around with all kinds of mooks, backstabbers, even my own enemies...and a bird...and a robot version of myself....and out of all of them. She actually cared about me. I thought that might mean I could get her on my side as a general in my future evil army." Jack explained

"But you lied to her, Jack. You were telling her you were a hero...when you were a villain all along." Twilight said

"Yeah, I know that!" Jack snapped "How do you think she would have reacted if she knew I was a villain? I'm not a good guy, princess. I hate that stuff. But I made a friend. And I guess...well..ugh...can't believe I'm gonna say this...I blame him really" Jack sighed, tapping at his forehead as he thought of his good self "everyone needs a friend...ugh..I can't believe I just said that"

"I actually agree with that Jack. Everypony does need a friend. But it shouldn't be based on lies. Do you really enjoy being evil?" Twilight was curious, as she had managed to get him to open up. He seemed to have forgotten the deal.

"Of course I do, it's always been my dream to rule the world. I get a kick out of.." Jack stopped himself, realizing she'd probably not like his full answer "Ok look, I'm willing to let bygones be bygones and not lift a finger in trying to rule this world. I want to save it. And I want to know I at least can have one friend...one genuine friend like a good guy would....just to know what it's like." Jack looked up and took in a deep breath "Before you say it...yes, I'm willing to be a good guy...in this world only....for Scoots. You can accept that much right? Because that's the best you're gonna get from me."

Twilight nodded, that was sufficient enough for her. It was at least a good start. "Ok...I understand. I would also guess you'd want to talk to Scootaloo too right? To try to fix your friendship?"

Jack's annoyance dropped in an instant. Those words... "...You'd let me do that?"

Twilight nodded "I would, friendship is magic after all. But...you have to promise to be honest. You have to be genuine and good...at least as good as you can get....And don't try to convert her to evil.."

Jack nodded "Ok...I can work with that...so...can I talk with her now? and Applebloom and Sweetie Belle? I kind...I...ngh" It hurt him to say it "I..I want to apologize to them too"

Twilight again nodded "You can...but....not right now. We need to fully iron out the plan with Rarity and Applejack. Before we leave, I'll let you talk to them......from the way things sound. We might not come out of this one if we screw up..." Twilight frowned, it wasn't a pleasant thought.

"....ok..T-thank you...I guess...mnn" Jack crossed his arms.

Now it was time for Pinkie and good jack to come back with the comic.and Rarity and Applejack to show back up.

Chapter 25 - Final Preperations

"Gooooootttt itttt!" Pinkie bounced back in, the comic book bouncing along her back.

"That's it huh?....so there's a whole world in there?" Jack stood up and picked the comic up to inspect it.

"Be careful with that!" Twilight hollered "Yes...It has a world inside....and no..don't open it. Whatever you do"

Jack nodded "I'm not a moron....I just wanted to take a peek" Jack was interested by the cover "Mane-iac sounds like a pretty classy villain.

"She's anything but...look. Just don't open it, alright? It'd take forever to get you back out of it..or us if it sucks us all in again." Twilight warned Jack, giving him utmost cautionary words.

"Must have been a trip...heheh. Guess that means we can't trap Wuya in it as a backup plan. If you could get out of it, she could no problem." He puts the comic book on the table.

"Or worse...she'd might find a way to get the villains of that book out of that world. We could be in real trouble then." Twilight thought, it'd definitely not be a good idea.

"So how should I distract Wuya, Twilight? Should I dance? Sing? Both?" Pinkie started to make suggestions

"It won't be needed Pinkie...actually. Jack, how exactly do you plan to convince Wuya into this "Xiaolin showdown"? Couldn't she just take the comic book from you?"

"Nah, the showdowns have special rules.As long as she wants the comic book as her own. I could instigate a Xiaolin Showdown. Pretty simple stuff really. We just can't get caught on our way up there. Speaking of which, you don't mind if I leave your friends behind if we get spotted right? I mean, I wo-"

Twilight narrowed her eyes at Jack ".....do you really want to ask me that question?"

"eheh" Jack did not like the look in her eyes "Right, do my best to save them if they get into trouble got it..." Jack turned away, muttering under his breath "Geez, give me a break. I'm sorta new at being a super good guy here...stupid horse"

Twilight didn't catch what he muttered, but she did respond to his first words "Jack, we are all in this together. I can assure you, if you were in any kind of trouble. My friends would come to your rescue too."

a southern voice could be heard through the door as it slowly opened "Come to who's rescue? Is Rainbo-" It was Applejack, and her eyes locked right onto Jack "YOU!"

Jack immediately turned to see Applejack across the room, coming through the door. And boy did she look furious. He took a few steps back. giving her a very nervous, fearful chuckle and waving very weakly "oh...hey..it's you....how's umm..your face?"

"AH THIRD TIME?! YOU LOW DOWN, NO GOOD, SNAKE! I DUNNO HOW YA GOT PAST THAT BARRIER BUT IF YA THINK I'M GONNA LET YA HURT TWI, YA GOT ANOTHER THING COMING!" Applejack said in a very heightened rage as she immediately made a dash towards Jack

One hand covering his face, the other his crotch. He jumped back into a corner and cowered "Don't! Don't hurt me! I can't take a second pounding! I'm unarmed!" He took a white flag out of his coat and waved it "Truce! Truce!"

Pinkie and Twilight immediately jump to his defense and try holding back Applejack.

"Applejack wait! He's on our side!" Pinkie yelled, doing her best to hold the berserked pony

"Applejack, calm down! He's here to make amends and try to help us!" Twilight couldn't use her magic to hold Applejack back as she was focusing on the barrier, and she wasn't very physically strong...at least not as strong as Applejack.

"YA EXPECT ME TO BELIEVE THAT MALARKEY?! THAT TWO TIMING VARMINT IS NOTHING BUT A VILLAIN! HE EVEN TRIED TO USE MAH SISTER! I CAN'T FORGIVE THAT! IF ANYTHING HAD HAPPENED TO HER..I..I!" Steam was bursting through her nostrils. Tears coming down her cheek.

"Applejack! Please! I know you're upset. I know what he did was wrong! Please ca-" Twilight calls to her. But Applejack cuts her off

"DON'T SAY IT TWI, AH CAN'T. AH WON'T! YA REALLY THINK HE'S HERE TO MAKE SOME SORT OF AMENDS? AH DON'T BUY IT. HE TOOK SPIKE, TWI! DON'T YA REMEMBER THAT? WE COULDN'T EVEN FIND HAIR OR HOOF OF FLUTTERSHY. YA HEARD SCOOTALOO, HE WAS WORKING WITH WUYA. WHAT IF HE STILL IS?! WHAT IF HE PONYNAPPED FLUTTERSHY?!" Applejack was in berserked rage, Twilight and Pinkie losing their footing as she tried to continue her advance.

"I-I know...but I don't think he ponynapped Fluttershy. Applejack, I know you're upset. I understand. I really do. But look at him." Twilight tried to get her attention to his cowering "He's really scared right now, he can't fight. Are you really going to beat up on somepony who can't defend themselves? That's not you Applejack. Please..I can prove he's on our side."

Jack's ears perked up as he looked towards Twilight with annoyance "Hey, did you just imply that I was a chicke-" His eyes caught Applejack's tearful rage. Making him go back to his shuddering "O-ok, she's right! She's Right! please don't beat me up!"

Applejack could see Jack cowering, scared, not even in a fighting position. Much different than her first encounter where he was cocky and underhanded. But she could definitely remember his hits doing nothing to her. She began to back down, until she stopped her advance "Twi...I....mnnn.." She sighed in a hefty sorrow "Yer right, ah can't just beat on somepony who's defenseless....even if it is him. It ain't in my nature..But..ahm gonna need that proof to be mighty conclusive if I'm even gonna believe a single word he spouts."

"Thank you" Twilight sighed in relief "Pinkie, can you have Good Jack do what he did for me?" She looked towards Pinkie, as Applejack became confused

"Good Jack? What's that all about?" Applejack asked

"You'll see...sorta..well Pinkie?" Twilight again asked

Pinkie nodded "Yep, but let me go get him! he went downstairs to see if any of the other ponies could see him so he could try to lift their spirits! He's such a nice guy!"

Pinkie zoomed and bounced off to retrieve the other Jack

a "hi Rarity!" could be heard past the door as she descended. Making Twilight jump to the ready

"Here we go again..." Twilight sighed.

After another moment, and calming down Rarity. Who was thankfully a lot more understanding. Pinkie brought Good Jack up to demonstrate his presence and nature. Letting both Applejack and Rarity have a go at making sure it was legit. Applejack using a word she whispered to Rarity, with Good Jack eavesdropping. And Rarity hiding a red colored gem. Pinkie was able to guess both right with Good Jack's help. Even getting the exact detailed color of Rarity's gem. Rarity was impressed. But Applejack was still a little on the fence.

"so yer all gonna tell me there's another one of him" She points to Jack "Somewhere in this room that's not only invisible...but pure good...and that only him, and somehow Pinkie...can see..and talk with?" Applejack said, confused by the whole thing

Twilight nodded

"Remarkable....but darling, wouldn't that make the Jack WE can see pure evil? I think it would support Applejack's point that he can't be trusted....especially in that tacky outfit he refuses to change.I'm tempted to make him something new just for everypony else's benefit." Rarity said, still disgusted with his garish attire.

"I guess it would be...but...uhm.. Pinkie. You can explain it better than I can." Twilight looked to Pinkie.

Pinkie nodded "Well, ya see. Apparently there's a whoooole other world where both Wuya and Jack came from. And at some point. Jack used some Yo-yo thingy and ended up being separated from his good half....everypony with me so far?"

They both nodded, still confused, but they had no reason to distrust Pinkie.

"Welllllll....Jack here had a super nice good moment. Infact. As it would turn out. He actually genuinely cared about Applebloom,Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. He even took an extra shining to Scootaloo and became her friend....sorta....it was based on a lie...which is bad...But he really did care. I know Scootaloo was upset. But he didn't go down to rescue her for his own selfish reasons like Wuya had told her...He went to rescue her because he actually cared! Which somehow brought his good self from the "yin yang world"...which is another world...and now evil Jack isn't so evil anymore..sorta...we're still working on that." Pinkie took a breath.

Good Jack gave an applause "good Job Pinkie Pie, that was very well said!"
Pinkie turned to smile at Good Jack "Thanks other Jack! It was really confusing, but I think I got it right!"

Good Jack gave her a thumbs up "you did perfect!"

Rarity and Applejack couldn't see who she was talking to.Rarity was a little worried and spoke up "Pinkie, sweetie....are you're sure you're not just imagining things? I know what you did was very extraordinary and all. But I fear for your well being."

Pinkie shook her head "I'm fine. The only thing I want to do right now is rescue Fluttershy, Spike, and beat that evil Wuya! Nopony tricks Pinkie Pie! NOPONY!" Pinkie's word becoming a little rageful.

"Speaking of which...we should inform you of the plan..." Twilight began to tell Rarity and Applejack of the plan. But she had to ask something of Rarity...

"What?! Why can't I come with? I certainly can't just leave you all by yourselves!" Rarity whined, shocked Twilight would make that suggestion.

"We need somepony to organize the townsponies and evacuate them. Rarity, if what we learned is true. It's not going to be safe for them. Even if I was to stay and keep the barrier up. Wuya would eventually be able to shatter it. I need you to take them to Canterlot. If we can't stop Wuya, I want to at least know that'd they be safe. Please Rarity...you understand right?" Twilight didn't want any of her people to be hurt should the plan fail.

Rarity nodded "Say no more Twilight. I understand, but you all better succeed. Or i'll be giving Wuya a piece of my mind....personally!"

Twilight nodded, then turned to Applejack. "do you understand the plan Applejack"

"Ah do, but I don't think it's a perfect one. Ah was actually in one of them Xia-whoosits. And Jack here had to play dirty to win. If Wuya is more powerful and just as evil. I dun think he stands a chance. Ah think I should be the one to do it." Applejack said, as she eyed Jack.

Jack leaned over to her, not taking the comment to well "Oh yeah? I managed to kick your butt you know! dirty or not. I still won!"

Applejack stepped over to him "Ya wanna fight right now then? I'm still itchin for a round two!"

Pinkie got into middle of them and pushed them back "Come on! Don't fight. We gotta work together!"

Jack pointed to her "She started it! She think I can't win!"

"And what makes ya think you can? She's definitely stronger than you, and probably fights twice as dirty. you'd be done for, for sure!" Applejack said, stepping back.

"a showdown can be more than just a fight. It can be a race, a specialized challenge. As long as we choose a challenge we can win at. It'll be fine....as long as Wuya doesn't make the challenge.."

Applejack, after hearing those words, actually begins to concoct her own plan "Well then...What if ah challenged her to an applebucking challenge? I'd win fer sure."

"What even is that?! Is that a real thing? It's gotta be a real thing for the challenge to start. And that doesn't sound real to me." Jack had never heard of it.

"It is a real thing ya city slicker! and if ya don't know what it is, then I bet Wuya wouldn't either. I suppose it's a little dirty to say. But I could take advantage of that and win like no tomorrow. if Equestria hangs in the balance, then I'm willing to play a little dirty myself if it means saving it."

"Wait, if you're willing to play dirty. Then why are you berating me for it!?" Jack didn't understand the concept.

"cuz.....you we're doing it just because you're a bad guy. Selfish to a fault." Applejack nodded to her own words.

"...e....a...hrm." Jack stopped to think, then looked at her "Ok, I guess you have a point...I guess."

"Then I think I should be doing the showdown. one applebuckin contest later and she'll be back to her ghostly self. Easy as apple pie." Applejack felt confident, she was sure she could win.

Twilight could agree with that. having learned of Jack's history with Wuya. Or what she had been told. Wuya would no doubt know Jack's tricks. "Jack...you don't have any objections with that right?"

"Of course I have an objection with that! We can't leave something that important to a country bumpkin. What if she screws up?!" Jack felt he was the boy for the job.

"What if you?! Stop being such a whiny punk and get it through yer thick skull that OUR world is at stake. We can't be leavin it to somepony like you. Especially one who probably don't even care what happens to us! Ahm gonna be the one doing the challenge, and that's final!" Applejack looked straight into his eyes, putting her front hooves on the table to tower over him "Ya got it? pardner?"

Jack just looked at her intimidating stance "..yes ma'am..hehe.." She had no one between her and him. And he didn't want to suddenly be attacked.

"Good..." Applejack lowered herself down.

"Then it's settled....We have a plan. and for the love of Celestia. Please everypony. We have to stick to it. Jack...Applejack. Please try to get a long. And Pinkie, make sure to convey all the information Good Jack tells you when he scouts the perimeters of Wuya's castle. ok?"

Pinkie saluted "Gotcha! You got that other Jack?"

"Yup! I'll make sure to be super clear and concise...I would not want any of my new friends to be in any danger because of me. No sirree!" Good Jack wouldn't know what to do with himself if he made a mistake.

"Don't worry other Jack! You'll do fine! I know you will" Pinkie gave him a confident smile.

Twilight took that as Good Jack understanding. Then looked to Applejack and Rarity. "...ok...before we do this. There's one more matter. And please....please be understanding. If only because I believe even Jack deserves one chance...everypony does.."

Twilight began to tell Applejack and Rarity about Jack's request before going on their way.

Chapter 26 - Forgiveness

"Given the circumstances...if things are truly that dire. And Mr.Jack is doing his best to be "good"...I suppose it'd be alright." Rarity said, still contemplating if her own words were of a good idea.

"........" Applejack said nothing,she just stared into Jack's eyes.

"Applejack?" Twilight said, wondering if she had an answer.

"...I dunno...He tried to make her into somethin' bad. Ah don't think he deserves that chance. He's lucky he hasn't gotten a really good bucking yet." Applejack couldn't decide. Her family, especially her sister. Was important to her. And Jack had only proven himself to be scum.

Jack held his tongue.He wanted to say something. But he could see his good self shaking his head "no". as if it was a warning not to speak.

"Applejack, I do think you're being a little harsh. Ok, he did attack us...true. But Twilight does have a point, everypony deserves at least one chance." Rarity was actually fighting for it, on Jack's side.

"How ya figure?" Applejack asked

"Well,let's look at it this way. Think of all the other "evil" beings that we had managed to get a second chance and have bettered themselves for it. Princess Luna, Discord, and even Trixie have become better ponies.....given a slight relapse on one of their parts...but still. I'm willing to bet this is one of those times where perhaps. We need to be more understanding." Rarity tried to convince Applejack

"...hmn." Applejack was starting to think about it.

"Think of it this way darling. Perhaps had we not been so suspicious of Discord when he was reforming himself. Perhaps he wouldn't have had that little "relapse" in the first place. I'm not saying we have to leave the room, we can still keep an eye on him in case he tries anything devious" Rarity was giving it her all. If only because she actually believed in her own words and thought of how horrible it would be if the plan failed. Nobody deserves to be crushed that hard.

"...." Applejack closed her eyes and sighed. "Fine....I reckon you might have a point." She then looked towards Jack "But if you try anythin funny, then I'm gonna see how far you fly. Got it?"

Jack nodded, Internally, he wanted to talk to them privately. But if this is what he could get. Then he will have to accept. No amount of dirty tricks would gain him a private audience with the CMC. "Alright...fine."

"And remember Jack, you gotta try to be good." Pinkie said "And a smile always helps!"

"And be truthful! Don't forget to be truthful!" Good Jack added.

Jack huffed and put his face down on the table with a groan. "you guys are seriously killing me."

"Jack, don't act like that. We are doing you a favor. Please be more considerate." Twilight told him, finding his response deplorable.

"I know, but I think you guys-...never mind....just give me a second" Jack raised himself back up and started tapping and slapping his face and mussing with his hair. When he was done, he had a happy...creepy...looking grin on his face "This better?"

"...I normally don't say this...but...ya might wanna tone that smile down a bit" Pinkie said, even she thought it was rather disheartening.

Jack rolled his eyes and attempted a smaller grin.

"There we go! Should I go get them?" Pinkie looked to Twilight. in which Twilight nodded.

Pinkie rushed down to get the girls. Every moment since her departure making Jack more nervous to speak with them. He started to sweat.

Good Jack had noticed this and sat opposite of his counterpart. "What's the matter?"

"As if you don't know!" Jack suddenly snapped at his good self.

"mnnn...Jack, you don't have to worry. In fact. It actually makes me happy to see you like this." Good Jack smiled at him

Jack immediately rose up and pointed accusingly at his Good Self "I'm not worried! I'm just...What's so good about it anyway?! huh!"

Good Jack just looked up to him, unaffected by his threatening demeanor "It means you really do care Jack, I can tell you're really trying. And sure, you might not turn into a "Good Guy". But at least you're making an effort. And even if you go back to fighting Omi and trying to rule the world. At least I know that you were capable of truly being good on your very own. And that means a lot." Good Jack had a very gentle soft tone in his words. He was proud of his evil self. For making the effort.

"..........That's the most stupid thing to ever come out of your mouth ever." Jack put his head back down.

"You say that now, but I know how you truly feel. I am you you know." Good Jack giggled

Applejack leaned her head over to Twilight "Are ya absolutely sure he hasn't gone bonkers?"

Twilight nodded to her "Pinkie can see whoever this "Good Jack" is too.So he has to be real...I just wish I could understand what he's saying. He seems like a good guy."

Applejack was skeptical "I'm still on the fence about that"

Pinkie slid through the door halfway, and looked to Jack. "Are ya ready Jack?"

Jack gulped. and took multiple breaths before taking a slow final one. "......yeah...I think.."

He was repeating in his head a mantra of "Think good thoughts"

Pinkie slowly opened the door completely.

Through the door came three rather upset fillies. Scootaloo gave Jack a very nasty look as she stood by the door. Applebloom and Sweetie Belle's looks being that of sadness and slight confusion.

Jack became still. giving a glance towards Scootaloo. He felt a guilt sparked pain in his chest. But he retained his composure, and did his best to sound apologetic and humble.

"...hey girls...how's it going?" Jack said, softly, with a small jitter in his voice.

not one of them spoke.

"...ok....I deserve that. I guess Scoots told you girls everything huh?" Jack started to tap his finger on his table. His face becoming more apparent that he was feeling shame.

Sweetie Belle and Applebloom nodded. Scootaloo still keeping her dreadful stare.

"....Why? Why did ya do those awful things Jack?" Applebloom asked. She was crushed, not only had her new friend betrayed her. But her hopes had fleeted.

"....." Jack couldn't answer. He couldn't just say "Because I'm an evil boy genius!"

as Jack stayed in silence. Scootaloo spoke up as she pointed at Jack "Why don't you just tell them! or are you just going to lie again!?

Jack cringed. It was if being evil had really came and bit him right back. "Because...I..Well..." He hung his head with a sigh "I'm a bad guy..."

Applebloom had a tear go down her cheek "so...all that stuff about saving the world..and helping us get a cutie mark...that was all fake too?"

"...yeah" Jack couldn't look at them "I lied about all that..." He raised his head and gave them a nervous chuckle "Except the cutie marks...you probably sti-" He stopped when he noticed how distraught they looked. "....ahrm..."

"We heard you wanted to apologize... Pinkie said you we're going to help fight Wuya but...are you really? Scootaloo said you had worked with her before..Jack...who are you?" Sweetie Belle wanted a clear cut answer. She couldn't forgive him unless she knew who he was.

"......." Jack stood up, "I'm Jack Spicer....Evil boy genius..." It suddenly hurt to say that "I worked with Wuya to take over the world. But, after a few betrayals here and there...I became independent...then not..a few times...it's really topsy turvy. Point is...That's who I am. But...it is true I actually DID help save the world once....maybe twice."

"You probably did it because if you hadn't, you would have been toast too" Scootaloo said snidely.

"...err...sorta....yeah.." Jack fell and slumped down onto his chair "..."

"...But...Mr.Jack..if that's the case. Why'd ya save Scootaloo then? Was that because you were "gonna be toast" too?" Applebloom was confused.

"...probably only did it because he thought he needed a pegasus instead of a unicorn to get that stupid amulet to work. Probably thought I'd just walk right into it like an idiot after he had come up with some way to get the amulet and mirror back." Scootaloo huffed

Sweetie Belle rubbed her chin, thinking about that statement "But Scootaloo, Everypony knows unicorns are the ponies that actually use magic. I'd think he'd had just come after me instead. I don't think Jack is that dumb."

"...hmph...I dunno" Scootaloo looked to the side, not wanting to discuss further.

"...actually about that. I actually had sorta kidnapped a unicorn already. I guess Wuya didn't tell you that part....Scoots..I really did go down to save you. You gotta believe me!" Jack tried to appeal to her senses. But she turned to him and stomped her hoof!

"LIAR! If you had everything you needed. Then you wouldn't have bothered with me! So come on Jack. Who did you ponynap?" Scootaloo demanded an answer

Twilight facehoofed. She didn't even know another pony was ponynapped.

"..I...I don't remember. But she had these funky purple shades" That's all Jack had cared to remember about her.

"...likely story" Scootaloo couldn't believe him

"huh....so That's where Vinyl went off to." Pinkie rubbed her chin. "We gotta remember to save her too when we get inside Wuya's castle....definitely gotta remember that"

"Hey, that proves he's telling the truth...at least about that!" Sweetie Belle said, seeing some hope. "It's a pretty heroic thing to save somepony."

"Is that what you think? Come on, so he was telling the truth about that. But I saw everything." Scootaloo focused her attention on Jack "You lied about everything you were doing with us. You were the one who attacked the castle, attacked our friends and family, and ponynapped too! Then you suddenly came to rescue me? You had to have some evil reason...come on...tell me! I just want to go back downstairs...I'm tired of this.." Scootaloo started to tear up. Him saving her for any other reason but selfish or evil ones seemed too farfetched at this point.

Jack looked right into Scootaloo's eyes as he said this "You're right..I did all those things. I did it all so I could conquer this place. And I was going to put the final stage of my plan into action the day you got ponynapped. I had everything I needed.....But I couldn't do it when Wuya showed up. She basically gave me a choice. The world, or you. Simple as that. If I had an even eviler version of myself, I guess he'd be calling me a dweeb right now for choosing you."

Scootaloo was surprised, if only because she hadn't known about that a certain detail "Wuya came to you first?"

"Well yeah, not like she could take me on. Us evil villains always gotta have an ace in the hole. tch, I actually thought she had somehow blown up for good. Guess I was wrong, huh?" Jack chuckled weakly.

"So you just saved Scootaloo...because she was in trouble?" Sweetie Belle inquired.

"I saved her because she was my friend! Why would I just risk my neck for somebody who's in trouble? Unless they are gonna pay me or something, then I'm not going to risk my neck for some random loser! Got it!" Jack didn't want to seem as some wishy washy wimp that would stick his neck our for anyone. It was one of his "hey! Don't call me that!" moments.

"...Well...I think ah can forgive ya then Jack" Applebloom nodded "Even if you were lying to us just now....ya can never lie about an act of heroism like that"

"I agree!...though...you kind of need to work on that whole "evil" thing. You were telling the truth about everything before right? I mean...you aren't lying to us right now, right?" Sweetie Belle asked

"No, I'm pretty sure I'm telling the truth right now." Jack said

Sweetie Belle gave a small smile "Then..I think I can forgive you too. Pinkie said you were going to help save us from Wuya. is that also true?"

Jack nodded "Yeah! of course! If I...ahrm...." Jack had to stop, as he realized he was going to say "if I couldn't have the world, then neither could she".
"Yeah, you can bet she's going down!" Jack gave Sweetie Belle a confident look.
Then he turned his attention to Scootaloo "So Scoots....ya forgive me?..I mean...look, all those times we shared...those..feelings" Jack looked to his good self as he said that word, Good Jack giving him a thumbs up "Those weren't a lie. I actually had fun. I liked hanging out with you. I liked...being your friend. Come on, what do ya say?" Jack reached into his coat and pulled out Scootaloo's Helipak "forgive me?"

Scootaloo just gave him a stoic stare "...I don't believe you. Just do what you need to do and leave." She then gave an unamused look to her two friends. "can't believe you guys actually forgive him."

Jack went silent, he reached for Scootaloo, but she just backed off. and walked away from him. "I'm going back downstairs...." and Scootaloo turned. Jack wanted to stop her. Even Good Jack wanted to. But what could Jack say? He said everything he thought he needed to.

it was a crushing sight. Even Applejack couldn't help but feel sorry for Jack. "s-sorry pardner"

Jack, looking down. keeping in his tears. put his hand in front of her without even facing her "Save it...I don't need your sympathy."

"Jack..I'm...I'm so-" Good Jack wanted to apologize, but Jack stopped him

"And you. don't even say a word. You were here two minutes and you made friends..somehow! I should have known making any kind of friends was a stupid stupid idea, you..you don't even deserve to be a part of me!" Jack yelled, it was now visible tears were falling down his cheek.

Applebloom and Sweetie Belle said nothing. But they could see the tears. It gave them silent solidifcation of his feelings.

"Jack. Maybe we should give Sc-" Twilight tries to calm him down, but again he interrupts
"I don't even care" he says as he sniffs and wipes away a tear "Besides...we got a world to save anyway. The longer we wait, the stronger Wuya gets. So if everyone is done being stupid." Jack looks at Scootaloo's helipak, freezing for a moment before putting it on the table "We gotta get going now"

Jack was heartbroken. He could already feel his heart growing cold. He tried his best. But like everything else. It was another failed attempt. Any attempt to talk to him about the subject was met with a harsh retort. Except from Applebloom and Sweetie Belle. Whom he didn't reply back to at all.

With Jack not in the mood to listen about it. There was no time to waste further. Rarity went with the CMC downstairs to start the evacuations. Applebloom grabbed Scootaloo's helipak without Jack noticing.

Pinkie and Good Jack looked like they wanted to cry. It was such a painful moment to witness.

Applejack couldn't think of anything more to say. She didn't think Jack had it in him to have those kind of feelings.

Twilight tried to keep her mind on the mission at hand. She felt bad. But she was going to be first up to bat. And had no idea what Wuya was going to throw at her.

...it was time.

Chapter 27 - Wuya Vs. Twilight

Wuya sat on her new throne, reading a Daring Do book. The throne room to the castle itself had turned into a craggy, rocky twisted design of the original throne room. The banners featuring her face in ghostly form.

The Diamond Dogs were celebrating in the mass piles of gems that were scattered around.

Wuya started to get annoyed with their hoot and hollers and slowly eyed them before yelling "WILL YOU FLEA BITTEN MUTTS BE QUIET!? I'M TRYING TO READ HERE! OR DO YOU WANT ME TO SMASH ALL OF YOU DOWN INTO CARBON SLUDGE!"

Suddenly they all stopped, some shivering in fear. the others just freezing in place.

Wuya sighed, and raised the book to continue reading. "Good...I was just getting to a really good part."
Wuya turned the page, her expression turning to that of disgust as she tosses the book aside and blasts it ".....how anti-climatic...she survived."

A diamond dog walked up to Wuya fearfully, shaking "M-mistress W-"

Wuya shook her finger at him "ah ah ah, it's QUEEN Wuya. Or Empress Wuya if you like. It doesn't matter, both sound good. Anything less and you'll get the newspaper again" She looked down at him with a cruel smile "Now...what is it you want? And bow while saying it. I need to break you all in after all..."

"W-well, other diamond dogs talk. And we think we deserve city made of gems. In exchange for helping you with Equestrian conquest." He said as he bowed to one knee.

Wuya sighed, resting her head on her hand "Eh, why not? Not like I'd need them. As long as you stay loyal to me. you can have your little capital. But don't expect any leniency . I expect you all to fight as if your lives depended on it. Because failing me means they will be forfeit." She looked down at him, making an eerie smile "Understand?"

The Diamond Dog nodded "Y-yes Queen Wuya. We agree as long as we get gem capital." He was visibly shaking

"Good..." Wuya leaned back on her throne and turned her head to the side "How are we on our army anyway?"

"Well, our clans be here within week. Then we take Appeloosa like plan you specified" The Diamond Dog said.

"....ugh..how boring. I wonder if that miserable princess will listen to reason and bow down to me. Go look out the window and tell me if that barrier is still up." Wuya shooed the diamond dog away

The diamond dog slowly backed away and looked out the window. He could see the barrier around Twilight's castle had dropped. He relays this information to Wuya.

"What?...Well..that was quick" Wuya got up and walked towards the window to confirm it for herself "Well, Well. It seems the little princess is giving up already. And moving her little subjects away it seems" Wuya let out a small cackle "It's only a matter of time. She’ll comes begging for the lives of those pitiful ponies. And we have her little friends in our dungeon. She'd no doubt join us to make sure they are kept in good health.”

"I'll Never stop believing in friendship, Wuya! Not as long as I'm able to fight!" Twilight said, stepping out from behind some dead trees. Looking straight up at the window Wuya was staring down from.

"Why hello there Princess...hehe. How has your day been?" Wuya said, in a decadently evil tone.

"....." Twilight said nothing, staring up at her with her best menacing look

"oh my Twilight...is that anyway to treat an old friend? you’re hurting my feelings" Wuya made a fake pout.

"You're no friend of mine, Wuya! You tricked me and my friends! And for what...Power? You're no better than Jack! How could you sink so low?!" Twilight cried out, feigning ignorance of the true facts.

"Oh trust me, I've always been that low. For me to sink any lower would cause a disruption in the planet's core....actually...that might be a good plan for later when I get sick of this place." Wuya began to tap at her chin. thinking about it.

"Your tyranny ends here Wuya! I'm here to stop you!" Twilight began to flap her wings, her horn aglow.

"HAHAHAHAHAHA, are you serious?! You're going to fight me by yourself? Let me guess...are you going to give me one last chance to stand down before giving me some pathetic speech on how evil is bad?" Wuya leered at Twilight

"...." Twilight said nothing, as that's what she was going to do exactly.

Wuya gave her an arrogant smirk "Typical...You!" Wuya pointed to the Diamond Dog "Get the guards and the first platoon and bring that princess to her knees! all four of them!"

"B-b-but we can't fight Alicorns!" The diamond dog quivered in fear

"EITHER FIGHT HER OR FIGHT ME!" Wuya roared as her eyes glowed a vicious yellow "YOU HAVE A SING-" Before she could finish, the diamond dog ran away to fulfill her task.

Wuya then turned to Twilight "You must forgive them, they need better doggie training. They'll be down to subjugate you in a moment."

"I'm not in the mood to fight an army. Just you! I'm going to end your reign here and now!" Twilight flew upwards, straight up to eye level with Wuya.

"My, aren't we impatient.How can you just skip to the climatic battle without the hero's warm up?" Wuya yawned "..oh well, at least we can make this quick. So, since we are being so hasty. Why don't we just skip to your surrender, hmm?"

Twilight leaned back, and immediately fired a blast at Wuya. Who only put her hand forward and blocked the shot. Leaving a small scorch mark on her palm.

Wuya had actually felt that. Had she been at full power, that probably wouldn't have hurt. And she knew that wasn't Twilight's best blast.

"There's my warm up Wuya! Give up now, or it's going to get a lot worse!" Twilight demanded "that's your only warning"

"What was that? Couldn't hear you over all those spears being chucked at you." Wuya said as the Diamond Dogs stepped out of the front gates to hurl their spears towards Twilight.

Twilight was having none of it and immediately sent a bomb shot to scatter the platoon of dogs while shielding herself from the spears.

The Dogs ran away in fear. Not wanting to fight an Alicorn with that kind of power.

".....useless..." Wuya turned to the diamond dogs in the gem piles "You, gather the second force and this time...spread out...then chuck your spears!"

They immediately dashed off as Wuya turned to Twilight. only to meet a blast in her face. Making her step back as she puts her hand up to block others ".....Why you little....GRAGH!" Wuya raised both her hands to seal the window. Blocking the rest of Twilight's shots as she forced her hand forward. Sending the entire section of the wall at Twilight.

Twilight yelped in surprise and dropped altitude to dodge it. but then was met with a second wave of spears. one knicking her wing. Making her flight wobbly "wa-waah!"

"You can't fight forever you little fool! Once my dogs get you to the ground. My rock men will crush you into a pancake! ONE I'LL PROBABLY EAT!" Wuya yelled, peeved that she took a hit.

Wuya raised her hand "RISE MY MINIONS"

The ground began to shake as Twilight tried to straighten herself in the air after taking that nick in the wing.

The Diamond Dogs stopped throwing their spears as they did their best to balance themselves. Some even running away.

"YOU COWARDS! I'M RAISING ALLIES FOR YOU AND...oh why do I even bother." Wuya sighed as only a few troops stayed to witness the rise of her...Rock....ponies.
"PONIES?!...ugh" Wuya slapped her forehead "Please tell me I didn't just raise some rock ponies...Is that permanent? Please tell me that's not permanent. I'd rather not have my opponents dying of laughter before I get a chance to end them myself"

Suddenly, some of the rock ponies gave Twilight a soulless glare as they grew wings and darted towards her. Others growing horns that fired laser blasts.

Twilight was having trouble like never before. All she could do was focus on dodging the incoming rock pegasi and dodging rock unicorn blasts.

"hrmmm...Maybe it's not so bad after all. I didn't even know I could do that. It must be my magic infusing with the magic of the Amulet. Yes...yes....this will do quite nicely." Wuya looked over to Twilight. Who was now completely focused on trying to destroy her rock army. "Princess, how long do you think you can hold out before getting hit by a spear, being blasted..or just outright crushed? Just save yourself the trouble and surrender to me. I have a lovely little spot for you in my dungeon. Right next to your little dragon pet...you know, I wonder if he's still ok. I haven't actually bothered to see if those wretched mongrels have been feeding him....oh well."

Hearing that, That was enough to make Twilight angry. She released a spell that sent out an expanding blast that devastated the rock pegasi. and sent the rest of the diamond dog's 2nd platoon to flee. Only leaving the rock unicorns to fire their magical projectiles towards Twilight.

Twilight backed up from the beams and fired a huge one of her own at Wuya. Who quickly raised another wall, reinforced with her magic. It only barely managed to block Twilight's shot.

"Miserable little pony..." Wuya rubbed her cheek where she had been wounded "I just need more time..."

Chapter 29 - Jack's Final Revelation

All they needed was a stretch of corridor to reach the doors leading to the throne room. Jack peered around the corner to see two rock unicorns guarding the door. He turned and slid back behind the wall and looked over to his good self and whispered "I thought you said the guards were gone fighting the princess"

"They were, those weren't there before....ohhhh, I knew I should have double checked!" Good Jack groaned in frustration of his own failure.

"Ah don't think I've ever seen ponies like that before, where ya'll suppose they came from?" Applejack wondered.

Jack pulled out his snare gun "Don't know, don't care. It just makes it easier on us. Let's just get them out of the way and move on"

"Oh hey, that's a neat toy. Where can I get one?" Pinkie said as she stared at the snare gun.

"It's not a toy. It's something only professional villains like me should use. Now, let the master work." Jack said

"Jack, don't do anything hasty now. We dunno what those things are capable of" Applejack cautioned Jack

"Don't worry Applejack, it's not like he's going to jump out and try to take...oh hey! look, he is doing that!" Pinkie said, as Jack jumped from the corner aiming his snare gun at the rock ponies.

"Jack, what in tarnation are ya doin'?!" Applejack hollered

"Relax, this never fails..ahrm." Jack cleared his throat as the rock unicorns became aware of their position and began to slowly approach. "come on bozos, let's wrap this up!" Jack aimed his snare gun and blasted the rock unicorns.

The nets didn't even phase them, they just looked at the bindings for a moment, then started eating through them.

Jack pondered for a moment "huh.....that usually works..."

"What now, oh fearless leader?" Applejack said in a sarcastic tone.

"Well, I guess we can-" Suddenly, the unicorns started randomly blasting at their direction. "RUNNN! RUNN AWAY! AHHHHH!" Jack yelled in a high pitched tone as he ran down another corner of the hallway. Leaving Pinkie Pie, his good self, and Applejack behind.

"Jack wait! Where are ya going!" Pinkie yelled towards him, extending her hoof towards his direction.

"Darnit, I knew he'd get us in trouble. Forget about him, Pinkie. If he wants to be a yellow bellied coward then let em, we got work to do!" Applejack said as she tilted her hat forward and sprang into battle.

"Don't worry Pinkie, it's just a small setback! I bet Jack will come around any second!" Good Jack tried to assure her

Pinkie rolled her party cannon out, again, seemingly out of nowhere, and prepped it. "I know, but I think he's gonna need a little help...speaking of help. I get to see if my party cannon can actually shoot cannonballs!" Pinkie rolled her cannon into the fray.

"mmm...." Good Jack rushed to the direction Jack had run off to. Hoping he was coming back.

But he wasn't, Jack made another corner turn and stopped behind a wall to catch his breath. "Almost became burnt toast back there...ha....ha" Jack panted.
Jack peered over to the ensuing fight. It seemed even though they were able to land hits on the stone guards. They were only making dents and cracks. "Great...and the bumbkin has the comic book in her hat too...how am I supposed to do anything now?"

"Jack!" A voice came from his side, startling him

"Wha?! HEY!" Jack screeched, seeing his good self beside him "Don't do that!"

Good Jack just stood there, giving a serious stare to Jack while tapping his foot.

"...what..what is it? Why are you looking at me like that?" Jack said, confused. He started to rustle through his hair "Is it my hair? is it out of place?"

"Jack Spicer....I'm surprised at you" Good Jack said, in the most serious tone he's ever mustered

"About what? that I made a mistake? eh..it happens. Good thing I had bait to throw those rock goofs off my back, huh?" Jack said, in a reassuring way.

".....is that what you see them as....as bait?" Good Jack was feeling a feeling he rarely..if ever...felt

"Well.....bait that happens to be ponies. But bait is bait. Now we just gotta wait til their pulverized and get the comic book." Jack said as he peered over again. "Shouldn't be too long"

"Gee Jack. Now I can really see why Scootaloo doesn't want to be your friend." Good Jack was feeling disgust.

"What? pffft. it'll be fine. That pink horse said she'd come around. I gave it a lot of thought, and ya know what? I bet saving this world would actually make her like me again...pretty smart huh?" Jack tapped at his noggin "Something only a genius like me could think of."

"What about them? You abandoned them. How are you going to explain it to everypony when you come back without them?" Good Jack was feeling both disgust and shame at this point.

"eh, casualties of war" Jack shrugged

"...I can't believe I just heard that, coming from you of all people!" Good Jack started to raise his voice

"Really? you're surprised? I figured given..you know..That I'm evil...that'd you'd be used to it by now" Jack said, not getting what good Jack was trying to get at.

"....and that's all you're ever gonna be ,huh? That's not very heroic, just cowardly. I bet if you were in trouble. That those two would come running to save you. But, I guess you don't care about that either. You can think you're gonna be a hero all you want. But real heroes do everything they can to save everypony they can. I really wanted to believe that you had some good in you, I really wanted to believe you and Scootaloo and maybe all the other ponies could be friends. But, I forgot where I originally came from" Good Jack couldn't even look at his other self anymore

Jack crossed his arms "Yeah well, maybe if "EVERPONY" had just left things as they were, none of this would have happened. Scoots had her chance, but she decided all the "bad" stuff I did meant we couldn't be friends anymore. Her loss."

"...I apologize, and I know i'm going to regret saying this...but...but...." Good Jack was struggling to say it "b-but...you make me ashamed that I came from you...now if you excuse me, I'm going to try and help out"

Good Jack turned to run towards the battle.

"ashamed to be me? I think you got it the oth- HEY WHERE ARE YOU GOING?! I'M NOT DONE YET!" Jack cried out as Good Jack ignored him, running towards the battle. "WHAT ARE YOU EVEN GOING TO DO?!?! YOU CAN'T ACTUALLY....ugh...forget it" Jack sighed and went back to hiding.

"egh, he doesn't know what he's talking about. What does the measly lives of two stupid ponies compare to saving the world? It's not like he can tell Scootaloo what really happened. I just gotta come up with a story on how I tried to save them and everything will be good. Not like he'd be able to tell anyone differently. I'd be in the clear." Jack slid down the wall, sitting down "ugh, suddenly feel sick...what's up with my chest right now?"

Jack peered over again "Look at em, they only got one of them down and still having trouble. Looks like they are getting tired...won't be long now."
Jack looked up and sighed "What does he know anyway. Why should I care? they aren't my friends. They wouldn't stick their necks out for me if I was in trouble. So he's wrong about that. Besides...are there any real consequences for me not helping out...let's see. Well, on the one hand. I don't really need them to help with the showdown. And they'd probably get in the way. On the other hand though.....huh..I guess there's no bad side." Suddenly, Jack remembered something "oh right, Applebloom is Applejack's sister.and Applebloom is Scoots friend...and.....mnn. ngh" Suddenly, Jack felt a sharp pain in his heart

He put his hand to his chest "Then Applebloom would be sisterless..and that'd make her sad...then Scoots and Sweetie Belle would be sad..and then maybe all the other ponies would be sad.....that's a lot of sad....wait...let me really think about that..." Jack entered a near meditative state, then tears started to roll down his eyes "WAIT?! IT IS SAD..SUPER SAD...AGH! WHAT AM I DOING!? I DIDN'T KNOW I'D ACTUALLY BE MAKING SO MANY CUTE LITTLE PONIES SAD...I JUST WANTED TO SUBJUGATE THEM AND MAKE THEM SUFFER...NOT MAKE THEM CRY! AGHHH! WHAT AM I DOING?! GOOD JACK WAS RIGHT!? HE WAS RIGHT! DON'T WORRY STUPID PONIES...I'M COMING" Jack turned the corner and made a mad rush towards the Rock unicorn, who was about to blast both Pinkie Pie and Applejack with a charged shot, it looks like they got tossed into the wall. "AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Jack screeched as he took out his snare gun, he tried firing rapidly at the stone unicorn. But it was finally out of ammo. So with a hefty toss, he threw the gun itself at the stone unicorn. The gun hit the horn, causing it to break slightly. Which was enough to cause it's charged shot to backfire and make it explode.

Everyone covered their eyes and faces as debris flew everywhere.

Jack slowly peered at the headless stone guard as it fell over to its side. "woah.....I beat it."

Pinkie looked over first, seeing Jack triumphant over the stone guard. "Wow! You did it, Jack! I thought you were gonna chicken out for sure! Good Job!" then she suddenly fell over, and began rubbing her foreleg "oh..that smarts. I think he got me..."

Applejack looked over to Jack, surprised of his return "so...what made ya come back? Ah thought for sure you we're gonna leave us to fry."

Jack crossed his arms and gave a smirk, to hide his true feelings "eh, part of my battle plan. Just had to strike when the time was right."

"Oh really? Because it looked like you were runnin' with yer tail between yer legs....so really, what made ya come back" Applejack was interested.

"what, you don't believe me?" Jack gave her a stare that seemed to lack confidence

"ah know alot about truth tellin, and ah can tell that ain't the truth. So what really made ya come back?" Applejack returned the stare, one full of curiosity. This she had to hear.

Meanwhile, Good Jack was both surprised and ecstatic at the same time. His eyes glistening and his smile wide as he awaited for Jack's response.

"....come on..don't make me say it." Jack took a step back, tapping his fingers together "besides, we got a world to save..."

"it's only gonna take a second, so come on. Tell us" Applejack was really wanting to hear it.

"...come on" Jack said again, but her stare only became more curious and deep, even Pinkie Pie had joined in.

".....you guys are...c...fine.." Jack took a breath "I thought it over...and I guess I didn't want to see any of you sad...or for anyone to get hurt. I-I mean. If you're all gone, then who am I going to beat on a weekly basis if I can't get back to my world...right?"

Applejack gave a small chuckle "Well, ah think giving you a weekly beating sounds fine.....glad ya came around,." Applejack looked to Pinkie "you ok sugarcube?"

"My leg hurts..but I think ah can still fight" Pinkie tried taking a step, but she tipped to her side "....or not"

"hrm...Jack, yer gonna have to stay here with Pinkie Pie. Make sure nothen happens while I deal with Wuya. Got that?" Applejack said as she began to step to the doors, but it looked like she was hobbling.

"Applejack, are you sure you're ok?" Pinkie was the first to notice

"Ahm fine, just got nicked. ahm still good to go" She stretched her back leg out, but she made a noticeable cringe that even Jack noticed.

"....ok...nope" Jack walked over to her and forcefully lifted her hat and took the comic book

"Hey, what's the big idea?!" Applejack said, as she she painfully turned towards Jack

"You're in no shape to fight. And I don't know about you. But I'd rather not see Wuya conquer that many universes. I'm gonna take care of this myself." Jack stuffed the comic book into his coat

"Wow Jack, that's really brave of you" Pinkie said

"yeah..and thoughtful. I thought for sure...well..let's not think about that now! Go Jack go!" Good Jack cheered

"Ah don't think so, you may have saved us. But this ain't a job fer you. It's better suited for a pony who actually has somethin' to protect-HEY WHAT ARE YA DOIAHHHH" Applejack cried out as Jack just softly put his foot to her side and pushed her to the ground.

"yadda yadda bla bla, just stay down and let me handle it" Jack turned towards the door and started walking to it "yo, other me. Stay back here with them. I don't need you distracting me"

"What are ya doin'? Ah said-" Applejack suddenly gets cut off by Jack

"Yeah yeah, something to protect...got it. I'll keep that in mind when I'm kicking Wuya's butt. Now stay here and don't move." Jack was referring to himself, he finally realized he had something to protect. Not for any kind of evil intention. But merely for the sake of it. Even if Scootaloo would never be his friend again. even if the ponies would never actually trust him. He had to do his best.

"Good Luck Jack!" both Good Jack and Pinkie said.

"ugh....just don't screw up, ya hear?" Applejack groaned

"I won't...guys who save the world usually have a good tendency of a low failure rate...so no worries...heh" Jack gulped as he internally thought "I hope"

Jack opened the doors, and passed through them. The final showdown...was about to begin.

Chapter 30 - The Fate of All Worlds

Jack slowly opened the doors to the throne room.

once past the threshold, he could see Wuya, standing near a huge hole in her wall. Watching something going on down below.

"It won't be long now" Wuya waved her hand, summoning more stone ponies to assault Twilight. "Just give in princess! I'd rather not have your juicy bits stain my nice stone walls"

Jack froze up, he didn't know what to do. He just realized he was about to go toe to toe with a powerful immortal witch. He almost decided to turn back.But he knew he couldn't. He tried to think heroic thoughts, what a hero would do in this situation. It wasn't exactly his forte. But he knew the ponies were counting on him.

Jack tiptoed closer, gulped, and stood there. Finally, he pointed his finger. but he didn't say anything. Wuya didn't even notice his presence.

Jack began to think of something to say. He didn't know how to approach the situation. He knew all he had to do was get Wuya to accept a showdown. It shouldn't be too tough.

Although he couldn't see the battle. He could hear Twilight's yelps and Wuya's cackles. He knew he didn't have much time. Finally, he just let it out. "Wuya! Your time has come!"

Wuya didn't even turn, she just sighed like she was being pestered "Jack...can you come beg for your life later? I'm busy dealing with something more important than your whimpering whines"

"whimpering whines? What?! How come you just assume I'm here to whine? I'm better than that you know!" Jack stomped his foot.

Wuya still didn't turn to face him "Pleeease Jack. Why else would you be here? I'm not even surprised that you broke in. Knowing you, you probably drilled in from the bottom like the little worm you are. Just go away, I'm not taking you back...now shoo" She waved her hand at him

"Don't be so high and mighty, Wuya! I'm actually here to stop you! So there! What do you think of that?! Huh? HUH!" Jack started yelling at her

Wuya still didn't turn to him "that's very nice Jack, but you aren't equipped to deal with me. So usurping a throne you can't have is just...well...juvenile. It makes the rest of us look bad. and not bad as in evil, bad as in a boy band being around until their 50s....it just doesn't work."

"Will you at least turn around and look at me?!" Jack stomped his foot again. demanding respect

"oh very well....if it will get you to stop whining like a baby" Wuya turned around to face him, and gave him an annoyed look while putting her hand to her hip "There...happy now?"

"I will be after I'm done with you..." Jack pointed at her "I challenge you to a Xiaolin Showdown!"

Wuya cackled "What?! are..you...serious? You came all the way here to challenge me to a showdown? Let me guess...you want the amulet? Tough luck Jack. I'm not giving it up. And besides, you have nothing...NOTHING...I could use. Now get out of my face before I turn you into dog kibble"

"Don't be so smug, Wuya. You're going to want to reconsider once I show you this!" Jack pulled out the comic book, and waved it at her "This is what I'll wager for the Amulet! How's that!?"

Wuya was unamused "....Jack...I'm not that desperate for reading material"

Jack smirked, he now knew she was still not at full power if she couldn't sense the power of the comic book "You're not all there...are ya?"

"What are you talking about?" Wuya said, crossing her arms

"Your power, you're not even close to being at full strength yet. That means I still have a chance." Jack gave her a leery smile

"A chance at what? being a smear on the wall? Because you are getting awfully close.." Wuya's hands began to glow.

Jack pointed to the comic book "Come on Wuya, are you telling me you can't sense anything from this?"

Wuya stared at the comic book, she could feel something magical about it . But she couldn't place what it could actually do "hrm...this is another one of this world's Shen Gong Wu. But so what? If you haven't noticed. I have everything I need. nice try Jack, but you got nothing"

"Don't I?" Jack waved the comic book "I have the one thing I know you want Wuya, just as much as all that power"

Wuya raised an eyebrow "And that is?"

"A way out of this dump. There's a whole other world inside this comic book Wuya...and you know what that means" Jack's stare pierced her soul. He could see her come to a realization.

"So that's what you want...Jack...you do know we don't have to fight. Hand me the comic book and I'll take you back with open arms. I promise" Wuya gave him an eerily soft smile as she extended her hand.

Jack stepped back "Like I said, didn't come here to join you. I'm here to kick your butt straight into the ground." Jack smirked as he waved the comic book "Come on Wuya, accept my challenge. I know you don't want to be stuck with these ponies for the rest of eternity. What's the point of power if you can't rule the world..or worlds...that you like? You know you want this"

"You're right....I do want it." Wuya pointed her hand at Jack, immediately blasting Jack towards the wall and making him drop the comic book to the ground. "But since I already know I'd win, I'm not much in the mood to go through the rounds."

Jack slammed right into the wall and let out a yelp of pain as he slid down.

Wuya went to pick up the comic book "Stupid boy, you've gone soft. Figures, all these ponies seem to know is how to be cute and happy.....it's pathetic"

The moment she went to reach for it. there were suddenly huge amount of blasting and lights coming from the window "huh? What's that racket?"

She turned to look out the window. What she saw immediately put her in a surprised state as she saw multitudes of rockets and fireworks crashing into her castle wall and her stone guards. Obliterating them.

"What?! WHERE DID THOSE COME FROM?! WHO IS DOING THAT?!" Wuya gripped her fist and slammed it on the windowsill as she tried to scan the area. But all the flashy lights and booms were blinding her.

Suddenly, that's when she saw it. through the smoke and lights, she had very little time to react to a gigantic rocket slamming right into her and sending her backwards. sending her partway through her wall across the throne room.

The rocket then exploded a little after impact. Causing the walls and ceiling in her proximity to crash down into her.

What she didn't catch. was that a certain caramel colored, purple maned filly had been riding the rocket. Using her helipack to guide it straight into her.

Scootaloo had hopped off the rocket just in time and landed daintily onto the ground. Looking at her handiwork "woah......we did it!"

There was silence outside. Battle wise. then suddenly a voice could be heard. It was Applebloom. "Scootaloo, did ya get her?!"

Scootaloo immediately ran towards the window to signal Applebloom "Yeah, I did! Mission accomplished girls! We actually did it! I can't believe that worked!"

"Then we got our cutie marks for sure, ju-...hey! Where's mah cutie mark?!" Applebloom had yelled, shocked that she somehow didn't achieve her cutie mark. Sweetie Belle joining in on the surprise.

Suddenly, Twilight was yelling. "What are you girls doing here!?! Don't you know how dangerous it is?! How did you even....you were supposed to stick with the group! You all could have been hurt!"

"uh oh..." Scootaloo stepped backwards as Twilight advanced on Applebloom and Sweetie Belle down below. There was a bevy amount of fire work launchers that were set up behind the bushes. and one of the fireworks had singed Twilight's tail. probably adding to her anger.

Scootaloo looked around the throne room. "Man...I don't have to be Rarity to know this place looks really tacky" She poked at the stone throne.

Jack was rubbing his head as he slowly got up "...ugh...what happened...."

Scootaloo looked towards Jack, having caught his groan. "Jack?"

Jack rubbed his eyes and patted his ear, he saw Scootaloo. But he couldn't be sure he wasn't having some sort of concussion induced hallucination "Great, I think i'm dying.Though...I thought the whole "life before your eyes" thing started at the beginning"

Scootaloo walked over to Jack "Jack...are you ok?" She waved her hoof in front of him.

"ugh...it's not even flashing all the way..it's just sorta wavy" Jack leaned back with a heavy sigh "wow, dying takes forever...I could have sworn I just hit a wall..that doesn't usually hurt me that bad.....anymore"

"Jack...you're not..." Scootaloo sighed and tapped his nose "You're not dying...I'm actually here"

"You can't be here...the real Scootaloo hates my guts. Go away fake scootaloo. I'm d-OWWW!" Jack yelped as Scootaloo slapped him

"ok, geez..you're real..ow.." Jack whined as he rubbed his cheek. "But...what are you doing here then? I thought you went with the rest of the ponies?"

"sort of...but then me and the girls...sorta made a detour.." Scootaloo chuckled, rubbing the back of her head.

"Detour? What?...why are you even here? And why are you talking to me? I thought you hated me..." Jack was surprised, it really was Scootaloo....and she didn't seem disgusted with him at all.

Scootaloo backed up, and sat down. giving Jack a somber look. "well...I...did...but..I had some time to think about it."

"Think about it? What do you mean?" Jack was curious. He was in disbelief that she just somehow showed up. He wanted to know everything. "How did you even get here?"

Scootaloo rubbed her right hoof, looking down "Well...after you left. I sort of didn't want to hear it from the girls that you seemed genuine. I just wanted to ignore it. I thought you only were doing what you were doing for selfish and bad reasons. But then after awhile. I saw Fluttershy, Vinyl,Spike...and one of your robots burst through the doors before we left. I kind of got curious and sneaked back upstairs to listen in on Rarity's conversation with Fluttershy...it sounded kind of important and I felt at least one of us should be in the know....and...well. Fluttershy said she was ponynapped. And that you, and applejack, and Pinkie Pie came and rescued her and everypony else. I thought at first that was normal...since you had went with them, of course you'd do what they tell you. But then Fluttershy said she tried to talk to you. but you didn't seem in the mood. She said she could tell something was wrong. Like you were really sad inside. And that made me think...no real bad guy gets sad about anything. And...no real bad guy saves anypony. Or would go save the world....and I guess I started thinking about the time we spent together. And, no real bad guy...at least I think...would have given me this" She points to her helipack "It was really really nice of you. I guess, I started to realize you were being good with me and the girls. Because...well..I started to think. What would a bad guy do if they were in your shoes. Then I thought about Wuya...She used me to get to you and get what she wanted. But you never did...I know it was bad what you did...but you never stooped to using us as some sort of bait....You kinda just had us steal the mirror...but that was it. You could have taken the mirror and ran.but you spent time with me...like a friend would...and it was super cool...that whole showdown thing! That was super mega cool!” Scootaloo outstretched her hooves to show the scope of "cool" it was.
"So..I went back to the girls and talked to them about it....we all kind of agreed that you never once showed us any of your evilness to us. You weren't like Tirek...or that creepy changeling queen. You were nice. And...I wanted to give you one last chance....." Then Scootaloo chuckled nervously "eheh...then Applebloom got the idea to sneak out and go get the fireworks we we're saving to see if we could bomb Wuya's castle to bits..since..you know...you did promise we'd save the world together."

Jack nodded, and chuckled. his heart was beginning to swell "..haha..I guess I did...wait!" Jack just realized "So you forgive me then!?"

"..I do...sorta..I just wanna know one thing. All the times you acted good. All the times we shared....did you really mean all the things you said, and did you really enjoy them? Tell me the truth." Scootaloo leaned in close. She didn't want to miss a word.

"oh come on...don't make me say anything mushy" Jack looked up "I'm not good at that kind of stuff"

"Jack......" Scootaloo groaned

Jack looked into her eyes. He could see she wanted a serious answer. and for him not to dance around the question. "....ok fine..." he took a breath "I really did. I felt feelings I thought I didn't have...anymore....I mean I separated from my good self a while back and I didn't think I'd still be capable of feeling anything good....It actually feels pretty good"

Scootaloo slowly smiled "are you being honest?..I mean..the good and evil separation thing sounds kind of weird to me...but it doesn't matter I think. I'm just glad to know that you actually cared...You're not a bad guy Jack...in fact..why don't you stop your whole evil thing?"

Jack waved his hands at her "woah woah...don't ask for miracles. I already agreed not to try to take over this world. "

Scootaloo sighed "fine..." She suddenly jumped into his arms and gave him a hug "Just make sure you work on being good then, ok? I like you when you're being good”

Jack stopped for a moment, then slowly wrapped his arms around her body. a tear going down his cheek. He didn't say a word. He only hugged her gently. They were friends again.

after that moment. They both stood up. Jack had just realized Wuya..not once...had spoiled the moment. He looked around. "Hey...where's Wuya?"

Scootaloo pointed at the rubble "I think she's under all those rocks...wow..I..I didn't mean to do that much damage..I thought she could take it and would just give up."

Jack was amazed "Woah! How in the heck? Geez, Wuya must have been weaker than I thought."

"yeah...I thought she'd have been a lot stronger...I guess that's why I didn't get my cutie mark..it was too easy...But I feel good. We saved Equestria" Scootaloo smiled

"eh...I didn't do anything...all that hard work and you ended up kicking her butt in the end" Jack said as he picked up the comic book and dusted it off. "Though, we could tell everybody that we did it together...hehe.."

"ummm,I guess I don't mind. I mean...you did ...hey wait..where IS Applejack and Pinkie Pie?" Scootaloo wondered

"oh them? they're behind that door there" Jack pointed "eheh...kinda got into a tussle with some of Wuya's stupid guards. But I managed to save the day"

Scootaloo stared at him, with silent disbelief

"Hey, it really is the truth....it's just I sort of ran away first...hehe...But I came back and saved them. It was just a slip up..." Jack said, trying to convince her, it was indeed the truth

"I believe you..until you give me a real reason to not believe you.....Just please...no more lies ok?" Scootaloo looked at him with big puppy eyes.

"ahh come on...don't look at me like t...egh...fine...fine..just stop" Jack looked away, putting his hands infront of himself.

Scootaloo grinned "good!"

Jack smiled a little, realizing she made that look on purpose. He did enjoy that she played a little dirty. But something was still bothering him. He began to rub his chin. "Though...something still irks me...I could have sworn Wuya was immortal.."

Suddenly a voice came from the rubble as the rocks began to glow "THAT'S BECAUSE I AM IMMORTAL YOU TWIT!"

It was Wuya. The rocks glowed a bright yellow before disintegrating. Standing among the dust was Wuya. and she didn't look too happy.

"AAAHHHHHHHHH! WUYA?!" Jack screamed as he grabbed Scootaloo and stepped back in a panic as Wuya stepped forward

"That's right Jack! And I'm done playing around! I'm going to take that comic book and turn you.and your worthless little friend into my new coffee table!" Wuya growled as her hands began to glow.

"SCOOTALOO! I'M SORRY! I'M REALLY SORRY! I JUST WANT YOU TO KNOW I NEVER MEANT TO HURT YOU EVER! NEVER EVER!" Jack shivered, he couldn't think, so he just let out his apologies before he got vaporized.

Scootaloo however. Took the comic book and held it between her hooves. She had a plan "Stay back Wuya! or else!"

"Or else what? You putrid pipsqueak. Can't you see I've won!? I'm tired of you ponies and your pointless hope!" Wuya readied her hands to blast them both.

Scootaloo put her teeth on the book and slightly twisted her head, causing the comic to slowly rip.

Wuya suddenly stopped "W-what are you doing?!"

"What does it look like? You seem to really want this comic book, huh?" She put her teeth back onto it.

"Scoots? What are you?! Are you ripping the comic book?!" Jack managed to pop out of his panic the moment he noticed Scootaloo had taken the comic and began to rip it. "You can't do that! I need that comic book too!"

"Jack! It won't matter if we're both blasted to bits!...besides..she won't do it. She really needs this comic book, right?" Scootaloo asked

"Y-....oooohhhhhhhh I get it..." Jack smirked, and then eyed Wuya "That's pretty underhanded Scoots...I like it"

"I'm only doing it because it seems like the best plan...but...what do we do now?" Scootaloo was getting worried. She didn't know how to follow it up.

Jack just stared at Wuya with a smirk, he knew he had the upper hand now as he could see Wuya stop her advance. Her eyes on the comic book. She was worried. "Yeah Wuya....What do we do now?"

"Give me the comic book little pony...I can grant you any wish you desire" She inched closer

"Stay back! if you step another inch. Then i'm gonna tear it!" Scootaloo threatened.
"a-a...." Wuya growled, she didn't want to have any chance of losing her amulet. But she didn't want to be stuck in this world forever. Her mind couldn't handle the thought of it.. "....Fine Jack...you win....I accept your terms. My amulet versus your comic book......so..what's the showdown?"

And so, The final showdown was to begin. The ultimate fate of not only Equestria. But all worlds now hung in the balance.

Chapter 31 - Xialoin Showdown! The Final Battle!

"You think You're all big and bad with all that power? How about I make it where everypony is equal! We challenge you to Battle Square!" Scootaloo placed her hoof on the comic book, giving an arrogant smirk to Wuya

"SCOOTS! WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!" Jack screeched. He didn't want her to be involved "DON'T DO THAT!"

"B-but why? I want to help too! We're in this together! right?" Scootaloo looked into Jack's eyes.

"Yes Jack...aren't you two together in this? Because I accept the challenge...with an adjustment of the wager of course." Wuya gave a sinister grin.

"Wuya! She isn't part o-...oh no" Jack winced as all three of them started to glow, as did their wagered objects.

"Yes! I'm part of it!...you're going down Wuya!" Scootaloo hopped down from Jack's arms and entered a battle ready position.

"Not so fast...You have yet to wager something...so..what Shen Gong Wu will you be betting? hmmm?" Wuya's teeth were as sharp as a shark as her grin grew more sinister.

"Wuya! She's not pa-MMH..MH" Suddenly Jack's mouth shut. He frantically tried to get it open. But he couldn't.

Wuya's hand was glowing and pointing towards him. "Quiet Jack...can't you see we are negotiating? now then..." She looks down at Scootaloo "Your wager, if you don't mind"

Scootaloo realized she had nothing to wager with "But...aren't I wagering the comic book?" Her ears lowered, she was hoping this was an acceptable bet.

Wuya shook her head and waved her finger "noooo...Jack is wagering the comic book" Jack tried to pull Scootaloo away, but suddenly he was being held down by Wuya's magic. She kneeled down and looked straight into Scootaloo's eyes. "what's wrong little one...don't you have anything of your own to wager?"

Scootaloo stepped back "N-no..."

"Well, then let me explain something....Since this isn't a normal showdown trio...but one that would put me at say...a handicap. Then I can force a being such as yourself who has no Wu to wager something much bigger than usual....to dragon rule levels...such as your life....I've always wanted a little butler...how does that sound?"

"No!..No!" Scootaloo started to yell, closing her eyes and barking at her "I'LL NEVER SERVE YOU! NEVER EVER!"

"You don't have a choice...or a chance..." The throne room began to expand and sink into the ground into a square shaped arena "I've already accepted and I get the choice of your major wager. I hope you're ready to serve me eggs on a side of toast in the morning" Wuya released her hold on Jack as the arena placed them on two different corners.

"YOU WON'T WIN! BAD GUYS NEVER WIN! ISN'T THAT RIGHT JACK?!" Scootaloo looked up at him.

"...." Jack sighed, suddenly recounting countless failures, then said half heartedly "...it sure is"

"Well then, little horse. how exactly does this challenge work?" Wuya asked, looking around. "It looks like a normal fight to me."

Jack started to panic "OH MAN! SHE'S RIGHT! SCOOTS WHAT WERE YOU THINKING?!"

"I I dunno...I thought something was su-....hey..what's that?" Scootaloo noticed a white cube float down from the sky and into the middle of the arena. And it started to glow. All three of them looked at it intently before it suddenly released a gigantic flash. They all covered their eyes.

"What in the world was that!?" Jack said as he went to rub his eyes, but instead he ended up poking them "ow!..what happened? that's o-HEY!" Jack ended up falling to his side "Why don't I feel right? Scoots...are...hey..your head"

"uhhh...Jack" Scootaloo was staring at Jack with a very odd expression. However from Jack's perspective, he could see a horn on her head, and her wings were bigger

"Woah, Scoots...you got a horn now....uh...wait...how did that happen? What's going on?" Jack tried standing, but only ended up falling to his other side.

"huh?" Scootaloo looked up as high as she could and could see the tip of her horn. "Woah...it really did work"

"What worked?! Why can't I stand up! I feel really weird!" Jack started to panic again, and started to bounce and flail

"Jack...c-calm down. I mean...uhh...do you have a mirror?" Scootaloo slowly inched towards him, trying to avoid his flailing

Jack slowed his flailing and focused his attention to Scootaloo "No....w-why?"

"...uh....take a look at your..umm...hooves..." Scootaloo said, almost giggling at his panicked form

"hooves? I don't have.." Jack looked at his...hooves. Suddenly, the gross reality hit him as his pupils shrunk "......AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH I'M A PPPOOOOOOOOOOOOONYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY" Jack screamed in the highest pitch he'd ever screeched since he was hit in his balls.

"A-actually...you're an alicorn pony...eheh" Scootaloo corrected him

"I DON'T EVEN KNOW WHAT THAT IS! AHHH! THIS IS HORRIBLE! WHAT HAPPENED TO MY BEAUTIFUL BODY AHH!" Jack started to flap around as sparks emitted from his horn. His fur was pale white, his mane still in the shape of his hair. His helipack gone, replaced with large wings. "AHHHHHHHHHH!" He flapped about until suddenly crashing back onto the ground "OWWW MY FACE! WHAT'S GOING ON?!"

"Well...it's sorta why it's called Battle Square...because I thought everything would be square as in equalized...pretty clever huh?" Scootaloo smiled happily

"NO! I DON'T EVEN KNOW HOW THIS BODY WORKS! WE'RE DOOMED, DOOOOOOOOOMED" Jack screeched, still being unable to stand up right.

"Don't worry Jack, I got a handle of having a pony body...since..hehe..I am a pony. I just need to learn how magic works.shouldn't be too hard. I bet Wuya is having a.." Scootaloo turned towards the ponified Wuya, Who was standing in a menacing way. Her chest puffed out. Her dress was reshaped to fit her brownish fur. Her mane, dark red and wild like her original hair. It seemed she had already gotten used to her new alicorn form. "...a massively...hard...time" Scootaloo gulped

Wuya raised her hoof and moved it from side to side, getting a good look at it "Hmm..not bad, I didn't think I could pull this look off...Nowhere near as good as my original body. But atleast I finally got to see a pony who actually looked good....even if it had to be myself."

"This isn't good....maybe" Scootaloo began to feel worried and turned to Jack "Come on Jack, you gotta get used to being a pony and quick!"

"BUT I DON'T WANNA BE A POOONNYYYYY!" Jack whined

"Any time now. I do have a whole multiverse to conquer, you know" Wuya didn't seem the least bit surprised in being a pony. She even began to internally wonder if she was getting too used to the world she found herself in.

"Give us a sec!" Scootaloo turned to Jack "Jack! Come on! Stop being a chicken and get up! Just do it one hoof at a time. Like this!" Scootaloo lowered herself, then slowly moved each hoof one at a time to stand.

"o-ok...ahrm..ok" Jack nodded, and slowly tried it. managing to successfully stand in his first try. "H-hey! look at me! I'm doing it!" His legs were a tad shaky

"Good Work Jack. you managed to do what a foal can do. Aren't you proud?" Wuya chuckled

"SHUT UP WUYA! I'M STILL GETTING USED TO IT!" Jack retorted

"Temper Temper, I suppos I should get used to this body myself...let's see" Wuya trotted at first, then began to do an elegant dance, filled with spins, loop de loops with her wings. and then finally using her horn to blast the ground to create a double explosion on both sides of herself. "A little rusty, but I think that was rather alright...what did you think, Jack?"

Jack looked at her angrily, puffing his face "Show off"

"hehe...well...as much as I enjoy being a prime specimen of your own pathetic species. I'd rather not wait any longer. Are you ready to lose or not?" Wuya was growing impatient

"One more minute! Geez!" Scootaloo was really beginning to worry "Jack, come on. We have to be ready!"

"I know, I know" Jack was carefully trying walking, he was getting used to it "Ok..so everything is equalized right? I'm gonna guess we are all ponies because of you right?"

"Yeah I think so" Scootaloo nodded

"Ok...and the super magical power we have. That'd be from Wuya right?" Jack wondered

Scootaloo nodded "yeah, that was the idea when I came up with this challenge."

"Ok....so....what did we get from me?" Jack really wanted to know

"oh ummm...uhh.." Scootaloo couldn't think of a thing "...We don't really have time to think of that right now. are you ready? I don't think we can hold off forever."

".......wait! I wanna know what everyone got from me!" Jack was super curious

"......uhhh...you're..mane..hair?" Scootaloo took a guess

"Really? HAHA! I always knew my hair was the best evil hair ever. But for it to translate to everyone having the...uhh..hairness of my hair! That's gotta really mean something!" Jack chortled

"...yeah..sure..Jack! Focus! You gotta focus! We gotta beat Wuya!" Scootaloo was doing her best to get him to focus on the task at hand.

"R-right. ok!" Jack turned to face Wuya "Ok Wuya, you're going down! You can't beat the both of us! We are as powerful as you are. So there!"

Wuya wanted to make a witty comment about that. but she didn't want to overplay her hand. "Just get on with it!"

Jack was itching to show her he was the best. Pony body or no Pony body "Come on Scoots. We can take her. are you ready?"

Scootaloo floated up and hovered in place, her movement was more graceful with her new wings. While Jack's helipack changed into large white wings. Scoots Helipack remained, only made more powerful due to her new powerful wings. "I'm ready, it's all or nothing. It can't be too hard...it's one versus two!"

All three looked at eachother and nodded.

Then they all yelled out. "Gong Yi Tanpai!"

The moment the battle started , Wuya aimed her horn at Jack and shot a yellow blast at him that immediately sent him into the wall.

"JACK!" Scootaloo yelled as she saw him fly backwards

"Well that was disappointing...ahh well" Wuya shot a second shot at Scootaloo, who managed to fly up and dodge the shot. "Of course, I always forget that EVERYONE is better than Jack." She started shooting short bursts at Scootaloo "Stay still you little brat!"

"Ngh!" Scootaloo dodged backwards, forwards, and side to side as she tried to do something with her horn "Come on..I already know I'm bad at being a pegasus..don't tell me i'm bad at being an alicorn too!..ngh!..COME ON!" in intervals at which she could aim her horn, she was trying to shoot back. But she was only producing sparks.

Jack slid down the wall and felt dizzy"ugh...uhng" He shook his head to get back his senses "Man...it's a really good thing I'm used to being thrown into walls...or else that probably would have really really hurt". He slowly got up to see Wuya firing at Scootaloo "Scoots! Don't worry! I'm coming!"

Jack got up and made a mad dash towards Wuya, only to trip on his first step. "OYGH" He quickly got up and rushed towards Wuya "I'M COYGH" He tripped again. He got up and again...then tripped again. "ARGH! FORGET IT!" Jack started flapping his wings and started to fly up "Finally! now!....SCOOTS I'M COMING!” He tried zipping forward, but ended up zipping backwards right into the wall. "AGH!"

Scootaloo was getting tired of dodging and tried thinking up a barrier to at least block Wuya's shot. A thin orb appeared around her. But wuya's shots easily broke through and hit her. Knocking her out of flight! "AGHH!" she whined as she spiraled into the ground and crashed. "OMPH"

Wuya chuckled "Like zapping an insect"

Wuya walked up to Scootaloo, her horn glowing a malicious red color "Nice try, now it's time to take you out of this competition. Who knows...this might actually take you out of this life! HAHAHAHAHA!" The glow on her horn began to glow

Scootaloo was slowly trying to get up, aiming her horn at Wuya. But she couldn't get a blast to come out of it. "ngh...I can't lose...not now..."

Jack slid from the wall again and fell on his back, he slowly raised his head and saw Wuya was about to blast his defenseless friend. suddenly, he felt an energy build up within him "SCOOOOTS NOOOO!" Jack aimed his horn at Wuya to try to blast her with...something. But instead it heavily misfired and rocketed him along the ground, his mouth taking in massive dirt as he sped towards wuya through a huge magical burst firing constantly at the opposite direction like a thruster.

"say goodnight!" Wuya aimed her horn towards Scootaloo as it finished its charge. But suddenly her attention was disrupted by a familiar screeech "That sounds li-OOOMPH!"

Jack propelled right into Wuya's face, sending them both flying straight into a wall.

Scootaloo cheered "WAY TO GO JACK!"

Jack walked away from the huge crack he made from the wall, dizzy and not walking straight. "no problemo silly blue dolphin, ah can always leave it up to meh...ugh" Jack fell over

Scootaloo rushed over to Jack to help refresh him, but Wuya bursted through the wall, angry as a hornet before she could reach him.

"JAAAAAAACCCCKKK!" Wuya's eyes were glowing a furious red as she looked around for him, seeing him laying on the ground. "EAT THIS!"

She shot a giant ball of energy towards Jack. Scootaloo jumped infront of the blast as it exploded. Causing a giant burst that spread dust everywhere.

"....and so it's done...a two in one too. Classy" Wuya chuckled softly and evilly.

She couldn't see through the dust. But she had assumed she won...until she noticed things were not returning to normal yet. "What's going on? It should be over by now."

the dust slowly cleared. and within sight. Scootaloo was standing over Jack. Her horn aglow as a light purple barrier was around them both. ".........woah....."

"What?!" Wuya was surprised "What is this?!"

"Jack! Look! Look! Look at what I'm doing!"

Jack slowly got up, shaking his head. and could see the barrier protecting them from the blast. "Scoots...how are you doing that?"

"I...dunno. How did you do that magical rocket thing?" Scootaloo asked

"dunno...unless...you don't think..." Jack began to ponder

"oh no way! our friendship and worry for each other makes us a powerful team! right?!" Scootaloo smiled at him while she kept the barrier up

"...oh....right...that works too" Jack nodded

"Friendship?! Are you two serious?! Friendship?! You two aren't friends! Don't you remember the pain he caused you!" Wuya was preparing another blast.

"Yeah...but...I've come to understand something. Even if Jack is evil. He is also my friend. And he threw away the world to save me! He helped our friends to help stop you! He....he let me experience what flying really felt like...without asking anything in return. He gave it to me as a gift with no strings attached. We have our differences...but when it really mattered he came through...and then he came through again...and so...I came through for him. This barrier is a testament to our friendship!" Scootaloo held firm.

Jack grew tears in his eyes "Scoots..."

"Please. Jack is a worthless little worm that would sell you out for even the lowliest of Shen Gong Wu. Do you truly believe everything you just told me?" Wuya growled, her power fully charged

"I do" Scootaloo said, as she turned her head back to see a teary eyed Jack.

"Very well then. We'll see how strong that little bond lasts when I turn you both into ash! PREPARE YOURSELVES!" Wuya let out her strongest blast yet. a bloodred laser constantly digging into Scootaloo's barrier.

Scootaloo held the barrier as long as she could. It was holding the shot back. but her barrier was starting to fluctuate. And she was sliding slowly backwards "nnnggggggggghhh"

"You can do it Scoots!" Jack cheered her on.

"J-Jack...I don't know how long I can hold it..y-you gotta do something!" Scootaloo was groaning in pain as she did her best to hold the barrier up.

Jack started to panic "what can I do?! I mean..that was a good speech and all but! but!"

"JACK NGH!" Scootaloo was doing her best, but the barrier was starting to crack

"Ha! Figures! All that talk and you both are still going to fry! I want you to watch Jack. Because I'm going to destroy her first. I want you to see exactly what "Friendship" has gotten you. HAHAHAHAHA!" Wuya cackled as the barrier started to shatter. Scootaloo was doing her darndest to hold it.

Wuya's words echoed through Jack's head. instead of making him back down, or panic. It actually sent him into a fury. "WUUYAAA!" He yelled "NO ONE DESTROYS SCOOTS EXCEPT FOR ME!" His horn started to glow a dark red.

"what?!" Scootaloo yelled as she was losing her grip

"NO TIME TO CHANGE MY WORDS!" Jack jumped in front of her "DROP THE BARRIER!"

"B-but!" Scootaloo couldn't hold it much longer anyway

"JUST DO IT!" Jack yelled

Scootaloo, without another word. dropped the barrier. Jack blasting his own blast and holding it against Wuya's. He was actually matching her blast.

"What is this?! How can this be?! How are you doing that?!" Wuya was starting to groan, trying to output more power.

"I don't know exactly myself. But I know. That I can't let Scoots down! I won't let you destroy her! I won't let you destroy the ponies! I won't even let you destroy Omi...BECAUSE DESTROYING THAT BALDY IS MY JOB! GRRR" He was beginning to overpower her.

"NGRRR! IMPOSSIBLE!" Wuya was stepping back

"I ALREADY MESSED UP ONCE! HECK! EVEN IF I CAN NEVER GET BACK HOME! AT LEAST THERE'S ONE THING THAT CAN MAKE ME HAPPY! ONE PONY! AND I WON'T LET YOU RUIN THAT! I'LL SAVE THE WORLD...FOR HER!" Jack's blast had almost overtaken Wuya's.

"N-no! You can't! You don't believe in friendship! You don't believe in that tripe! You're evil! the same as me! You can't possibly stop me! Rgghhh" It was almost over

"You're right. I am evil. But I'm nothing like you. I'm willing to compromise. I'm willing to understand. And I've actually managed to learn a lesson in this world...and that is....THAT FRIENDSHIP IS MAGIC!" Jack's blast had now fully overtaken Wuya's, smashing her entire body in a gigantic beam.

"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" Wuya screamed as she flew back and into the wall. the blast still hitting her and sending her through it. It just wouldn't stop.

Jack released all the magic he had. Enough to stop Wuya's attack. and finally...to stop Wuya. He couldn't even see her anymore.

The arena began to disappear. And in an instant. They were back in the throne room. Wuya was nowhere to be seen. and Jack stood back in his normal form. the comic book in one hand. and the amulet in the other.

He held up the amulet and cackled "FINALLY! I GOT IT BACK! NOW I CAN GO BACK TO TRYING TO RULE...this....world" He looked down, Scootaloo giving him a mean look.

Jack sighed and tossed the amulet to her "fine....it was a good thought at least."

The battle was over.

Epilogue

With Wuya defeated. The land that had been destroyed and killed by Wuya's influence began to immediately spring back to new life.

With the defeat of Wuya, life in Equestria, Like with the defeat of any other major threat, returned to normal. With ponies going on about their lives like nothing happened.

Wuya herself didn't even have a chance to escape. For when Jack noticed her trying to float away in ghost form. He had the bright idea to open the comic book at her. Sucking her in and sealing her inside. It would have to work as a prison for now.

Twilight and her friends went back to their lives as well. Setting up a reconstruction team to clear away the remnants of Wuya's castle and restore the old castle of the two sisters.

Good Jack, feeling his purpose for being there had been fulfilled. Wished a happy farewell to those who could hear and see him....Well..not before Pinkie stalled him long enough to throw him the most awkward party ever thrown. Since none of the guests could see or hear him. He thought it was simply delightful.

As for Jack. Twilight allowed him to stay in the castle basement as he studied the comic book and attempted to build a portal back to his universe. Jack was pardoned for his crimes due to saving the world. But he was given housing to the basement so she could keep a close eye on him, just in case. As he still made claims on being "Evil".

"JAAAACK! LET ME OUT OF HERE!" Wuya cried out from the comic book "I'M IN SOME KIND OF UNDERWORLD WHERE THE VILLAINS LOSE EVERY TIME! IT'S HORRIBLE IN HERE!"

Jack was doing his best to ignore his former companion as he began welding together pieces of metal from scrap Scavenger Bot #2 was bringing him when not hanging out with Spike. "Yeah I know...you've said it like a hundred times. Can't you see I'm busy?"

"HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO SEE ANYTHING WHEN I'M INSIDE THIS STUPID BOOK! LET ME OUT! LEEETTT MEEEE OUTTT!" Wuya screeched

"Ugh." Jack was rubbing his temples "I'm getting a headache...I hope Princess Sporkle finds that spell to mute you soon..it's getting really old real fast."

"YOU'LL NEVER SILENCE ME! YOU THINK I'M TRAPPED IN HERE FOREVER?! OHH HOHOH I'LL BE BACK! AND YOU'LL BE SORRY! JAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACK!" Wuya was screeching like a banshee

Jack just rolled his eyes and flapped his fingers like it was a mouth.

Suddenly, there's a quick zipping sound coming from behind him. Before he can even turn around. He feels a warm being grasping him from behind "Hey Jack!"

It was Scootaloo. Flying into Jack to give him a friendly hug.

"Oh hey Scoots! how are ya-" Jack turned around "what is that on your head?" Jack pointed to a pair of blue goggles on Scootaloo's head. with Rainbow Dash's Cutie Mark marked on each side of the frames.

"Goggles...why?" Scootaloo looked up at him with a smile "Pretty cool huh?"

"No! That helipack doesn't go with those goggles!" Jack points with heavy emphasis to his own goggles "they go with THESE goggles"

"Come on Jack, I think both you and Rainbow Dash are cool. You don't gotta be jealous!" Scootaloo nudged him

"I'm not jealous...I just know what fashion is. That's all." Jack crossed his arms.

"Rarity says your clothes are tacky" Scootaloo said

"HER FACE IS TACKY!" Jack yelled in reply.

Scootaloo giggled "come on Jack, relax. I actually came to ask if you wanted to help us get our cutie mark today."

Jack looked at the comic book, Wuya still screeching like mad. he winced, then looked back at Scootaloo "Yeah sure why not. I've been working all day on this thing"

"Cool! Come on, let's go!" Scootaloo landed, and started walking forward to the stairs next to Jack.

"So, what's the order of the day" Jack asked

"Well, Applebloom suggested we try being Manticore tamers!" Scootaloo smiled and hopped about.

"No! NONONONONO! Waaaayyyyy too dangerous. Nuh uh." Jack waved his hands about

"...awww...well, I guess it's a little dangerous. How about...cutie mark crusader Spelunkers!" Scootaloo suggested

"nope, I'm not going into any dark and creepy caves. Remember what happened last time?" Jack mentioned

"The spiders were only like...as big as my eyes. They weren't that bad!" Scootaloo said

"That's bad enough for me....I can still feel them...ewwww" Jack shivered

"Ok..how about Cutie Mark Crusader Painters?" Scootaloo made another suggestion

Jack rolled his eyes "About as fun as watching paint dry"

"hmmm..OH I GOT IT! How about Cutie Mark Crusader World Conquerors!"" Scootaloo raised her hoof

"really!?" Jack suddenly got super hyped and excited at the suggestion

Scootaloo raised her eyebrow at him ".....no Jack, it was a joke" She giggled

"...right..right...I knew that..heh" Jack chuckled nervously.

They left the basement. to have their adventures. For Jack Spicer. His days in Equestria would probably be his most happiest. As he could be a different person here. He had a friend. And as long as he could hold in his rather evil tendencies. He'd be accepted here. The heroes of his own world would have reprieve in Jack's absence. But one day...Jack would be back.

Chapter 1 - Enter Boy Genius

Author's Note

the beginning might make it sound 2nd person. but it's just to invest the reader into the story a bit.

Chapter 1 - Enter Boy Genius

It has been a whole week since You have arrived in this strange world
partnered up with you is the wizardly, powerful, and often bossy Wuya. Once again in ghost form for some reason.
You are Jack Spicer, recently having lost a Xialoin Showdown to a cheeseball headed nincompoop, you somehow ended up being thrown across dimensions. Only able to keep your only Shen gong wu you had with you at the time. The Monkey Staff
Sadly, you were without any of your tried and true Jackbots, who were destroyed in the clash.
You've been hiding out in an abandoned castle that seemed to have gone through some renovations. But nobody else has shown up for quite some time.
You've been sustaining yourself on berries and pudding snacks. While trying to find anything you can to reassemble a small militia of Jackbots to scout the area.
your ghostly companion has been on edge lately. She could not sense any kind of Shen gong wu. And you wouldn't leave your perch to do any kind of scouting.
At this very moment, you were trying to use the metal from the armor placed around the castle to at least make one or two bots.
Wuya was floating around you, annoyed with you that you'd rather make more Jackbots than do any scouting yourself.
"Jack, what's taking you so long?! We've been here for one whole week and all you've been doing is playing with your pathetic toys when we should be trying to find out exactly where we are!"

Jack was busy smelting some of the armor together with the few tools he did have in his little helipack. "It takes time Wuya, you can't just rush perfection"

Wuya grumbled "Oh excuse me Jack, you're right, I don't want to rush perfection. Clearly you can make a unbeatable army of robots with the few scraps of metal there is in this place. Please, don't mind me."

Jack smiled, and turned to Wuya "Gee thanks Wuya, that's the nicest thing you've said to me since we got here! it really makes me feel encouraged! I really needed that."

Wuya immediately exploded onto him "IT WAS SARCASM YOU IDIOT!.....ugh, I don't even have a head and I can feel a migraine coming on."

Jack pouted, a tear running down his cheek as he silently turned to continue his work.

Wuya sighed, still annoyed "Are you even sure you're putting them together properly? Last thing we need is to be defeated....again."

Jack sighed "Yes I'm sure. Who do you think I am anyway? I'm Jack Spicer, Evil Boy Genius! I'll be done before you know it! And then we can find out where the heck we are"

Wuya planted a ghostly tendril onto her face, letting out a sigh of disappointment "Sometimes I try to forget who you are and try to imagine better things. Things like conquering the world, lounging around on the beach, and actually having a competent partner who doesn't wet the bed because of a thunderstorm."

Jack turned and growled at her "Hey! That only happened once! It was j-just...really loud....anyway"

Jack turned back to his work and closed the hatch on the armor he was working on and flicked a switch as it started to spur and sputter
"It's finally finished. Take a gander at..."

The armor started to float upwards, a sword and shield in hand.

Jack smiled proudly as he waved his hands at it "KNIGHTBOT...AND IT'S READY TO GO MEDIEVAL ON SOME SHAOLIN BUTT! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA"

Wuya started to float around to inspect the bot "This looks like a dumbed down version of your already useless Jackbots. How do you expect to do any kind of winning with this thing? Furthermore, we still don't know where we are and I havn't been able to sense any shen gong wu since we ended up here. it's unnerving..."

Jack crossed his arms across his chest triumphantly as he looked upon his creation "relax Wuya, I got this.It's probably just this forest being all weird and creepy messing with your senses. It's lucky you got me here to get us out of this situation, huh?"

"The only way I'd be lucky is if someone took my ability to hear. You spent the first three days here crying like a little baby. "I want my mommy!, Omi's a cheater! I wish I had my dollies with me!" it was enough to kill me if I already wasn't a ghost!" Wuya sneered

Jack raised his fingers, feeling a little hurt by those remarks. "Ok one! I didn't whine that much! and two, I said action figures, not dollies! Dolls can't fight off nightmares and boogiemen."

Wuya sighed "......whatever you say Jack, can we just get on with it already?"

Jack nodded, and started to exit the castle through the front. His robot and ghostly companion close behind.
Upon exiting the castle, he looked around the forest. Took a big breath, and then started coughing "Ack!...too much good air...*cough*"

Wuya was losing her patience "STOP TAKING IN THE NATURE AND GET ON WITH IT!"

Jack cowardly shielded his face...until he realized Wuya actually couldn't touch him. "oh..hehe...right...ahrm"

He cleared his throat and pointed forward "Knightbot, clear a path forward that way!"

The robot silently obeyed as it started moving forward, chopping through any brush or thickets in it's path. Some of the debris hitting Jack's face as he whined and moaned, repeatedly telling his robot to be more careful. Sadly, it continues it's normal routine, with just more debris in jack's face.

The knightbot continued it's forward movement and constant chopping, Jack close behind. when not wiping his face of debris. He was proud of being able to make a robot with the little resources he had

Wuya however, was getting more unnerved as they continued through the forest "Jack, havn't you noticed anything...odd?"

Jack shrugged "nope"

"This forest...it seems out of place. As if it was completely foreign to any forest on earth, Surely a "genius" like you has noticed that, right?" Wuya continued

"nope, maybe you just got gas or something. If you do, try to keep it away from my direction. I couldn't even imagine what century old poot from you would smell like" again Jack shrugged

Wuya went from purple to red as she rushed right up into his face "LISTEN HERE YOU LITTLE WORM! IF YOU EVEN IMPLY THAT I'M SOME OLD HAG AGAIN THEN I'LL!..."

Jack suddenly got up into her face with a smug face "You'll what? You can't do anything to me. Besides, you need me remember?"

Jack started to cackle as he walked to the side to pick up a stick "And besides, what are you gonna do anyway? hit me or something? here, let me get you a stick so you can beat me with it..HAHAHA"

he bent to pick the stick up, but it wouldn't budge "HAHA...huh? hey what gives!"

Jack put both his hands on it to pick it up, but it wouldn't budge..well..not in his direction. It suddenly went behind some bushes, nearly pulling him along with it is he hadn't let go. "What in the?! IF YOU THINK A STICK IS GOING TO GET THE BEST OF JACK SPICER! YOU GOT ANOTHER THING COMING!"

Jack moved the bushes to grab the stick to finish his insult towards Wuya, but what he came across was some kind of wolf like creature.....made of sticks and wood. With glowing green eyes. He just stared at it, confused. "uhh...Hey Wuya, have you ever heard of stick wolf monsters?"

Wuya was still annoyed with his sudden arrogance. So she scowled at him, not paying attention to what he was actually looking at "no, why? Did you come up with some hair brained little scheme to make a robot out of sticks? Jack, I think you might need some professional help at this point. You're losing it."

Jack wondered if Wuya was right. He'd never been in this kind of situation before. But he still wanted to finish his awesomely evil insult. So he went to grab a stick from the body of the wolf, but then it suddenly swatted his hand away.
he tries again, but it swats his hand away
he starts to think it's real

he goes for one last try, but then it growls at him. loud enough for Wuya to hear. Drawing her attention
"What now Jack? Are you too delusional and hungry to even finish your pathetic insul...." she notices it finally "Is that a stick wolf monster?"

Jack suddenly begins to sweat at those words, as he continues to stare at the wolf "Wait.....you can see it?"

"Well of course I can see it you lout, I'm not blind. Though, I guess I can admit you aren't actually losing it. Oh well, maybe watching you get torn limb from limb might be amusing. Just try not to get killed Jack" she chuckled "Remember what you said, I need you"

Jack gulped, taking in her words as the reality hit him. He smiled at the strange wolf nervously "ummm...Nice doggy?"

It growled at him again, and bared it's fangs.

Jack let out a high pitched scream as he quickly turned the other direction and jumped on his Knightbot "AHHHIIEEEEE, KNIGHTBOT! PROTECT MEEEE!"

Wuya just started having a laugh at Jack's fear as the Knightbot hacked the Wolf to pieces.

Jack jumped down from his knightbot and stuck his tongue out at the remains of the wolf "HA! That's what you get for messing with me! Take this, and that! haha!"
Jack began to stomp at the remains as he chortled. Until suddenly...

two more monsters jump out of the brushes, again causing him to scream and jump on his knightbot. He again ordered it to destroy the wolves. But this time it started to have trouble now that there were two. The Knightbot wasn't a very skilled fighter. But it was managing, defeating yet another one of them

"COME ON YOU TIN CAN! YOU CAN FIGHT BETTER THAN THAT! COME ON, REALLY LET THEM HAVE IT!" Jack started to make fighting gestures as he rode kept his legs locked, hanging on the robot.

Just as things were going his way, suddenly. a third wolf appeared. Seemingly from nowhere, and jumped at the helmet of the bot.Surprising Jack, Knocking him down. "OMPH"

Jack shook his head and raised himself up "Hey! where did he come..." suddenly, he noticed the remains of the wolf the bot defeated were missing. And the bot itself began to fizzle and spurt from now losing it's advantage, getting clobbered left and right.

then...his pupils shrank as the remains of the second defeated wolf came back together and dove at his robot. Finally defeating it. "......mommy..."

Wuya just flew up beside him and chuckled "So tell me Jack....are you going to run away from a bunch of "sticks"?"

Jack gulped, and stood there silently...then, all of a sudden. He immediately made a dash in a random direction while screaming out "YESSSSS! AAHHHHH MOMMY MOMMY HELP!"

Wuya sighed, facepalming a tendril to herself "I hope this is a dream, I really hope this isn't real. It doesn't get any more embarrassing than this."

As the wolves began to rip at what was left of the robot. Wuya just turned around and began to follow the fleeing evil boy genius.

Jack just ran and ran, not caring about anything else but his own survival.
Wuya just followed silently along, questioning her own existence.

Suddenly, Wuya notices more light as they continue down the path "Jack look! I think that's a way out of the forest!"

Jack simply replied "RVEHFPVGJRNJRFLOGSJFELGJFD:VDFLBGDFJBLDF"

Wuya just let out melancholy sigh "Why do I even bother?"

as they approach the exit. Jack, in his horrified state, trips over a rock and flies head first into a decline, rolling out of the forest and into a stream.

He started splashing about yelling for Wuya's help.

Wuya floated up towards him to stretch out one of her tendrils. "Grab ahold Jack"

Jack flops up to grab on, but his hand goes right through her as his face hits a large stone jutting out of the stream. making him fall backwards as he groans, holding his face as Wuya laughs maliciously.

Jack comes to the realization within his pain that the stream isn't very deep, in fact. even lieing on his back, his face was still above water. He narrowed his eyes towards Wuya "....why did you do that?"

"don't get upset at me Jack, I was only trying to save you from a watery grave....NOW GET UP AND DO SOMETHING USEFUL!" Wuya snapped at him

Jack, rubbing his face, Slowly got up and looked at his evil black jacket. "gah, it's all wet and cold. mngh...it was my favorite one too."

"FOCUS JACK!" Wuya barked at him

Jack let out an annoyed huff "geez, I don't know how a bug crawled up your non existent butt...but it did....now..let's see"

Jack started to take in his surroundings. behind him was the forest. Around him was a vast meadow with a Cottage situated up on a hill. Further beyond seemed to be a village of some sort. "aha! look Wuya. civilization! Let's go take that town over and make it our new base."

Wuya smiled at Jack "Good Job Jack, of course. Let's go take over that village with the army of Jackbots you don't have! Oh I know, Let's go get whats left of your knightbot and toss the scraps at the people. I'm sure that will go just dandy."

"Boy Wuya, you sure have been extra snippy lately" Jack said

"Being stuck with you for a week, I'm surprised I haven't joined those Shaolin morons over some silly notion that being good would at least bring me some peace of mind that I wouldn't be stuck with an idiot like you for the next human lifetime."

Jack started to walk towards the cottage cautiously, trying not too get too close. keeping close to some trees to not get caught by any possible villagers. "Harsh...well, whatever, I'm just going to have to show you what a real evil boy genius can do!..hehehe"

"That's what I'm afraid of" Wuya said tiredly as she began to hide with jack. matching her movements with his as he got closer to the cottage.

"Let's see...someone has to be living there. If they got a phone. I can call my house. I got it set that if my phone rings a certain way, my Jackbots will come to my location to pick me up" he got up to the side of the cottage, taking quick looks through the window "what a dump"

Wuya was actually surprised. That kind of system was a pretty good idea.However, she had to make sure of one thing "You..do remember your phone number right?"

Jack nodded "of course, it's five five five, six six six, one three three seven. The most evil numbers ever!"

"Good Jack, good. Now we are actually making progress....but still...it's odd. A whole week and not a single inkling of Shen Gong Wu." Wuya was feeling troubled by this

Jack pulled out his monkey staff and smirked "Don't worry about it for now Wuya, we're probably in a place with bad reception...or maybe...There's some kind of barrier around this place hiding a REALLY good Shen gong wu somewhere. I wouldn't put it past anybody these days."

Wuya pondered that, it could be true. Why else would her abilities suddenly not work? It might actually be worth investigating this.

"MONKEY STAFF!" Jack called out, using the Shen Gong Wu he actually still had in his possession. His form suddenly became more monkeyish, with a tail and everything.

He silently opened the window and creeped inside, using his newfound agility to silently search high and low for a phone or perhaps any kind of device he could use to make a machine out of.
unfortunately, he couldn't find anything worthwhile. The place was very low tech. "come on...not even a phone? really? who doesn't have a phone in their house? eek eek."

he went upstairs to look into the next room, sniffing his finger along the way. And as he slowly opened the door. He spied upon......a yellow horse? pony? thing...it was talking? and feeding and talking to a rabbit. Jack...was heavily confused.

He slowly stepped back, carefully as to not alert her. Wuya floated to his side and asked him what was going on. "What's taking you so long?"

"shhh! Wuya, something is super creepy about this place." Jack said

Wuya just looked around "this place? if anything, it's too cheery. Needs more bats and spiders."

"no..I mean...theres a talking pony in there. Talking to a little white rabbit." Jack pointed at the slightly ajar door

Wuya chuckled "Jack...are you serious? Horses can't talk. And you don't even have the tongue of Saiping to understand one. Stop messing around and do your phone thing already!"

suddenly, a soft voice can be heard through the door "hello? is anypony there?"

"WE'VE BEEN FOUND OUT! ABANDON PLAN! EEK EEK! I'M NOT ABOUT TO BE TORN APART BY A HORSE DEMON" Jack jumped down and swung out through the window he came through.

Wuya was stunned by the absurdity of it all. "....I swear....of ALL the things that do exist. Demon horses are not one of them...I'll just see for myself what Jack is whimpering about."

Wuya hovered towards the door, but before she could float through it. It opened. Revealing a yellow pony with a long pinkish mane and soft blueish eyes. "Well, I owe the little moron an apology...it really is a demon horse. Say, you wouldn't want to help me collect shen gong wu, defeat a bunch of putrid do gooders, and conquer the world would you? I will give you EVERYTHING you could ask for."

The yellow horse just stared at her ghostly form "G-G-G-G-GHOOOOSST!!!!" and then suddenly fainted

Wuya sighed with disappointment "....I'm...just going to take that as a no...ugh...now where did that flea brained moron get to? JACK! JAAAACKKK!" She flew out through the wall to find Jack.

Chapter 9 - Jack's New Army, Spike Spills the Beans

Jack stood proud at his finished bronzeclad bots with devilish glowing red eyes. Some were sputtering a little. As to be expected from robots made of discarded scrap. "Look at them, aren't they adorable!"

"I dunno.....they give me the willies" Applebloom said, feeling reluctant to even go near them.

"I think that's the point Applebloom! Let me guess, their look is meant to scare your enemies...right Jack?" Sweetie Belle said as she circled one of them to get a better look.

"Bingo! Nothing better than seeing the looks of horror in your enemy's face before they run away like yellow bellied doofuses" Jack chortled, but deep inside he knew that no one he has ever faced has ever been legitimately scared of his Jackbots. Maybe the ponies would? He'd love to see that.

Scootaloo went and tapped one on the head "It's pretty solid too, man. That Wuya lady isn't gonna know what hit her! We're gonna be heroes for sure!"

"Slow down there shortstuff. I can't exactly attack Wuya just yet with this many Bots. If anything, this is just a small guard. I'm gonna have to make more later....and...I'm gonna need a gamechanger."

"A gamechanger? whatcha mean by that mister Jack?" Applebloom asked, curious as to what he was talking about.

"Ya know, something to guarantee our victory. Like I dunno...a super powerful Shen Gong Wu" Jack stated. Wuya never had a chance to tell him about any of the specific Shen Gong Wu this world had. So he didn't know where to start looking.

"You mean like your staff thing?" Sweetie Belle inquired

"Sort of...but something that packs a really wicked punch....say...you girls wouldn't know anything about that..would you?" Jack said, he figured any lead was as good as any given his new "pet" wasn't cooperating.

Applebloom thought "Well..." and then it hit her "I know of a couple of things. Spike told me about this comic book that saps ya'll into another universe!"

"mmnn..no, one world hop is enough for me. Anything else?" Jack thought that'd be an interesting Shen Gong Wu to have. But only to use on others.

"Well another one is the Alicorn Amulet, But ya wouldn't want that." Applebloom started to feel a small anger build inside her the moment she said it's name.

Scootaloo hovered down in front of Jack, speaking in angered excitement "Yeah! Don't even think about it! Forget it! Even though it gives you a super huge amount of power. It also turns you into a giant jerk! grrr, that Trixie even threw Rainbow Dash for a loop. She says she's sorry. But I dunno.."

Jack started to rub his chin. "that could work".He thought to himself. But he had some clever wordplay in mind for the girls.
"Well if it does that then, then I DEFINITELY shouldn't use it.....but. Who's to say Wuya won't find it and use it for herself? She's pretty crafty. If you girls tell me where it is. Maybe I could grab it before her and guard it. You know, to make sure she doesn't get any more powerful." Jack gave them a very terribly looking innocent grin.

Scootaloo slapped her forehead with her hoof "OH MAN! I DIDN'T EVEN THINK OF THAT!"

"Me neither, if Wuya got the Alicorn Amulet...we'd all be pretty doomed...I think" Sweetie Belle added, not exactly sure how much power Wuya had and how much the amulet would boost it.

"Do you think we should tell Twilight?" Applebloom asked the other two.

Jack interjected, waving his hands "No no no no no! You don't wanna do that! And before you ask why. Let me just say that if anyone...ahrm..anypooonnyy that high in status who knows about this, would be in serious danger. It's better she doesn't know. Trust me. Just tell me where it is and I'll pick it up myself."

"I'm sorry Jack, but I dunno where it is" Applebloom frowned, the thought of not being able to give vital information for something THIS important putting her down

Sweetie belle shrugged, frowning as well "Me neither"

Scootaloo however, smirked as she clapped her hooves "..But I'd bet Spike would know...he's not really that high up. But he knows where ALL kinds of stuff is. And he's good at keeping secrets! So it should be ok if you ask him and fill him in!"

Sweetie Belle shook her head "uhh...no he's not. All you gotta do is offer him a bowl of gems and he cracks like noponie's business. I think it's better if nopony lets him in on this."

Jack blinked "Who is Spike?"

Applebloom turned to jack "Ahh, he's just Twilight's assistant. Pretty easy to spot, he's ah purple baby dragon."

Jack face curled into an evil smile "....reeeeaaallllyyy....you don't say"

Jack suddenly stretched and yawned "Well, I'm pretty tired from making all those robots and you know heroes. If they get tired they are gonna need all the rest they can get, so I better be getting home. I'll just take my Jackbots and leave."

Applebloom peeked out the barn door, then looked at the Jackbots, feeling concerned "But mister Jack, how are ya gonna get all them robots outta here without somepony noticing?"

Jack just smirked as he turned to his Jackbots, he felt a good feeling in the pit of his stomach "JACKBOTS! STEALTH MODE!"

Suddenly, each of the Jackbots disappeared from sight. Jack felt all bubbly inside. Able to make actual commands again really inflated his ego.

They were all amazed "Wow! They disappeared!" all three of them said

Jack snickered as he walked towards the invisible robots "nah, they just went invisible. See I'll...OWW!" Jack ran headfirst into one of his own Jackbots "HEY! NEXT TIME I'M SHOWING SOMETHING COOL! DON'T GET IN MY WAY! IT MAKES ME LOOK LIKE AN IDIOT!" Jack openpalmed slapped the Jackbot, but he only ended up hurting his own hand
"GHEEEEKRKEEEKRKheee...nngh...my hand..." Jack whined

All three of the CMC started giggling at Jack's predicament, instantly infuriating him "HEY! WHAT'S SO FUNNY!"

"hehhehe, sorry Jack. It was just sorta funny, you know?" Sweetie belle said as she giggled happily.

they tried stifling there giggling as Jack just grumbled. He hadn't the time to argue, he had a dragon to bribe. "yeah..yeah..whatever..anyway, I seriously gotta get going"

Jack climbed onto one of his Jackbots, he was without his helipack at this point. And he had trouble getting onto the shoulder of the Jackbot, causing the CMC to giggle again. Jack just grumbled and took it, it's not like he wasn't used to this sort of thing already.

Jack finally gets onto the shoulder and sighs "Ok...here we go...hehe..JACKBOTS! TO THE BASE!"

The robots, still invisible, flew out of the barn one by one. The CMC saying their goodbyes, making Jack halt his bot at the door "Oh right I almost forgot!" he took a quick look at his cheat sheet "Scootaloo....if anyone asks about where you got that helipak. Tell em you made it...using the instructions from the internet"

Scootaloo saluted "Got it!...but..um..Jack, sir?"

Jack was getting impatient "what?! what is it now!"

Scootaloo frowned "I've never heard of the internet before...I don't think anypony has..."

Jack began clenching his teeth. A world without internet...how absolutely horrifying...How was he going to get his own connection going to watch videos of silly cats doing silly things....the horror. "...oh...hrmm, ok..just...tell em..I dunno...you built it based off an instruction manual, you guys have those right?"

Scootaloo nodded

"ok then...well...seeya...WAIT..one last thing. Scootaloo, can you fly up here for a moment?" Jack looked down at her, and he could see something was missing.

Scootaloo nodded and flew up to him "What is it?" She was curious, she was also hoping that he wouldn't take her new helipack away.

Jack just stared deeply into her, then snapped his fingers "aha! That's what's missing. No future genius can't be cool with just a helipack alone...they also need one of Jack Spicer's patented super cool goggles." He reached into his coat and carefully attached another set of his evil goggles to Scootaloo's head. "There we go, these are the kind of goggles that when anyone who makes fun of you sees them. They know they don't have much time left before they are crushed between your fe....hooves."

Jack took a moment to look at Scootaloo, he wanted to cry "You remind me of a younger me........if I was a girl....and also a horse..."

Scootaloo felt very honored to be given such things from a great hero like Jack. She became overwhelmed by his gifts and just gave him the warmest hug she could muster "Thank you Jack. I would have never really known how it was to be a real Pegasis...if it wasn't for you. I promise, if you need anything from me, just ask. As far I'm concerned. You're as cool as Rainbow Dash."

Jack slowly wrapped his hands around her, and returned her hug. teary eyed, his voice cracking. "I don't understand most of what you said, but you're welcome Jack jr."

Scootaloo pulled back a moment "What?"

"Scootaloo..I said Scootaloo..haha..ah...ha..anyway. I gotta get going. Got important stuff to do and gotta get my rest. Seeya girls!" Jack waved to them, as Scootaloo ended her hug and hovered away from him. All three of them giving him their heartfelt farewells.

With that, Jack flew off into the sky, hidden within his cluster of invisible Jackbots. He sent two of the scavengers off. One to collect scrap. While he personally went with the other one to find gems. Half his mind was on the CMC, imagining them all in clothes like his while they crack whips at Omi and his friends..and Wuya...and Chase...and Hannibal...and his Physical Education Coach....he hated that guy.

the other half of his mind was his devious machinations. Plotting on getting the Alicorn Amulet to use in his nefarious scheme to conquer both Equestria and Earth.

hours later, he returned back to the abandoned castle. Where Spike was laying on his back, groaning and rubbing his belly "...so...hungry.."

Jack hopped down, seemingly from nowhere as he jauntily proclaimed "HEYA RAT BREATH! JACK'S HOME! AND GUESS WHAT HE'S GOT!"

Spike just laid there, groaning "Great..I was hoping to die of hunger before this guy showed up."

Jack smirked smugly as he walked up to Spike, hiding his hands behind his back "How ya doing there, gee whiz...you don't look so good."

"gee you think? You left me here without any food. I had to eat your key...which was fake by the way! Speaking of which, you really gotta learn to wash yourself. I could taste your gross grime all over it." Spike grumbled, unmoving

"awww, well pardon me for being evil. ahh, by the way. JACKBOTS..SHOW YOURSELVES!" Jack called out, snapping his fingers.

suddenly, the Jackbots all appeared seemingly out of thin air, making terrible hissing noises as they brandished their weapons. Jack just looked at Spike with a wicked grin "I seem to remember you looking at me like I was crazy that I didn't have any of my goons around, I bet you thought it was really funny! WELL WHO'S LAUGHING NOW! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA"

Spike just leaned up for a moment, took a look at the Jackbots, and laid back down, grumbling "I'm too hungry to care about impending doom right now...ughhh"

"HAHAhaha...ha....hrn. You gotta be kidding me! You aren't even the least bit scared right now?! LOOK AT THEM! THEY HAVE RED EYES! WEAPONS! LOOK AT THAT ONE, HE HAS A BABY RATTLE AS A WEAPON! DO YOU KNOW HOW HORRIFYINGLY HUMILIATING IT IS TO BE BEAT WITH A BABY RATTLE!?" Jack was flabbergasted

Spike just leaned up again, looked into his eyes, and laid back down "nope...too hungry to come up with a witty comeback....ugghhh"

Jack was grinding his teeth until he took a deep breath to calm down, it was time for Plan B "So..you're hungry huh? If you had cooperated maybe I would have been a little bit nicer to you."

Spike felt a pain in his tummy, he started to rub it "I doubt it, you probably don't even know what I eat"

Jack's put on a sinister grin as he produced a huge bowl of shiny gems and placed it down just out of Spike's reach "It wouldn't be gems..would it?"

Spike's eyes went wild as he started salivating "FOOD..GIMME GIMME!" He reached out for the gems, but he couldn't quite reach "YOU MONSTER! WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT!" he whined

Jack started laughing maniacally at the moment, he really wanted to see Spike suffer. after his laughing fit he leaned down and looked at Spike. "So...you really want these gems huh?"

"YESSSS, COME ON! HELP A DRAGON OUT!" Spike cried

"Only if you help me out stinkbreath. I need to know exactly where this Shen Gong Wu you call the "Alicorn Amulet" is at! and make it snappy" Jack said

"what?! How many times do I have to tell you. I don't know what a Shen Gong Wu is!" Spike said as he continued reaching for the bowl.

"But you know where the Alicorn Amulet is right? Spill it, or else you're gonna go extinct like the dinosaurs!" Jack demanded

Spike continued reaching "I-I CAN'T, I CAN'T TELL YOU!"

"You can't...or you won't..hehe" Jack leaned down and grabbed a singular gem and started dancing it infront of Spike "oohhh look how delicious it is, yum yum in the tum. Oh man, it's so smooth and shiny..and filling...I think I'll have a bite" Jack takes a bite, hurting his teeth "OWIE! HEY, I THOUGHT DRAGONS ATE THIS STUFF!"

Spike cried and whined "WE DO! COME ON, DON''T GET YOUR SPIT ALL OVER IT. I WANNA EAT IT. COME ONNNN!"

"hmm..you mean like this?" Jack gave a sinister chuckle before building up flem, and letting it out of his mouth, letting it hang by a flemmy string above the gems.

"NOOOOOOOOOO! OK OK! IT WAS ORIGINALLY IN THE CANTERLOT VAULTS BUT THEN IT WAS CONSIDERED NOT SECURE ENOUGH SO WHEN TWILIGHT AND THE OTHERS DEFEATED TIREK IT WAS BEST THOUGHT IT'D BE SAFE WITH HER HIDDEN IN THE CASTLE BASEMENT....THERE I SAID IT! COME ONNNN..PLEASEEE..."

Jack pulled up his flem back into his mouth and gave Spike an evil,victorious stare as he slid the bowl towards Spike, who immediately started chomping at the gems, crying apologies to Twilight that he broke so easily.

Jack laughed nonstop, he was now even closer to world domination. And the best part was that Omi,Clay,Raymundo, and Kimiko weren't around to stop him. Nor was Wuya around to hold him back. If he could raid the castle once. He could do it again. He was having a seriously good day.

Chapter 28 - Raiding Wuya's Castle

meanwhile in the depths of Wuya's castle. In the dungeons.

Spike was bouncing a ball off the wall of his cage. "Ugh.."

Vinyl was putting her horn on the stone bars of her cage. emitting sparks "come on....."

Fluttershy was in a cage with one of Jack's Robots, it was Scavenger bot 2. "I must say, you are very kindly for a...uhm...robot. But I think you should eat this, to conserve your strength" She was trying to pass a small bowl of hay to him.

"Do not worry. I do not need to engage in normal consummation of foodstuff to operate. It will be better if you eat it." He was sputtering. It seemed he had taken a small beating at some point. Probably from Wuya. He was the only survivor of the purge. Probably only kept in operation for later use.

"Are you sure?" Fluttershy asked, not knowing anything about machines.

"Affirmative" Said the Jackbot

"o-ok" Fluttershy began eating

Then suddenly Fluttershy's ear perked up, as she heard a small whirring sound "does anypony else hear that?"

"Yeah, it's the sound of us going crazy....come on..come on.." Vinyl wasn't making any progress.

"No no...shhh.." Fluttershy put her ear to the ground. "....it's coming from below"

Spike got up and looked through his bars, he didn't see anything "Below? Fluttershy..I don't think we can get lower than this."

"no..I definitely hear something.....and it's getting closer....oh no..." Fluttershy began to get nervous.

Vinyl stopped her breakout and listened "now that you mention it. There is a really nasty beat coming from somewhere....hmmm"

Spike started to get excited "Maybe it's somepony coming to rescue us. FREEDOM AT LAST!"

Suddenly, from the ground. Jack came bursting through. Crawling out of the hole and spitting out dirt.

Spike's feelings instantly became opposite of what he was was previously feeling.
" OH COME ON! DON'T TELL ME WERE ABOUT TO GET REPONYNAPPED! HOW COULD THIS GET ANY WORSE!" Spike said as he threw his hands into the air.

As Jack was adjusting, hitting his ear to knock out the dirt from his ear form the long trip. Pinkie popped her head out from the hole "Wow, now I know how a mole feels!"

"Pinkie?" Spike said "What are you doing here....with him?"

"Oh it's not just me, Applejack is here to-whooop!" Pinkie suddenly found herself being pushed out of the hole as Applejack popped her head out to take a breath "Ahhh! Wheeewie, that was a trip! Did we make it?
Applejack turned her head to see Fluttershy, the jackbot, Vinyl, and Spike in their cages. "You're all here. Thank goodness... Don't worry ya'll, we'll get ya out!"

Fluttershy was overjoyed "It's good to see you all! Does that mean Wuya listened to reason and stopped being evil? It was so surprising when she suddenly decided to pay a visit and well....ponynap me"

"Hate to break it to ya sugarcube, but she did a lot more than just ponynappin', Equestria ain't lookin too good right now" Applejack said as she bucked at the cage bars, shattering them with a mighty kick.

"Oh my....what's happened? And who is that?" Fluttershy said as she walked over to Jack to introduce herself.

"Don't go near that guy Fluttershy! That's Jack! The stupid evil guy I was telling you about!" Spike yelled to her for her safety.

Jack was still busy getting dirt out of ears, they were also ringing from having to listen to so much drill noise from the trip from Twilight's castle to this one. He wasn't hearing anything that was going on.

Jack looked towards Spike and gave him a thumbs up "Yeah! We've come to rescue you!" He yelled, unable to hear his own voice.

Applejack then wrecked Spike's cage bars.

Fluttershy walked up to Jack, a little timid to know this was the person who had caused such trouble. "But...he doesn't look that bad, especially since he came with Applejack and Pinkie Pie...Umm...h-hello, I'm Fluttershy." She greeted Jack

Jack span his finger in his ear, then looked down at Fluttershy "What are you looking at me for? Get out of here you dumb horse, we just freed you. go on, shoo!" Jack was motioning her to leave as his hearing started coming back.

Fluttershy gave Jack a sad look as she backed up "There's no reason to call me such a bad name...I was just saying hello"

"Hello?" Jack said, confused

"Yes hello" Fluttershy said back

"No, I mean...is that what you were telling me?" Jack inquired

"Why yes, I was. I just wanted to say hi. And..umm...how are you today?" Fluttershy said, trying to give him a peaceful smile.

"are you serious? We don't have time for this! Just get in that hole and get out of here! all of you! Jack stammered, pointing at the hole. It was obvious he was still upset. Fluttershy could tell something was wrong.

Applejack then freed Vinyl, Spike meanwhile, hopped out of his cage and pointed at Jack "What's his problem, Applejack? You guys are aware he's the guy who ponynapped us all right?"

"ohh ohh, I got this!" Pinkie hopped up in front of Spike to explain, making him step back in surprise. Suddenly Pinkie entered a super fast expository speech about everything that has happened from her viewpoint. Taking super quick breaths every few sentences.

Everyone in the room was taken aback, even Jack.

"did everypony get that? Or should I say it again" Pinkie smiled

"n-no, I think I got it....but.." Spike looked to Jack then back to Pinkie "You're telling me this moron is here to help save Equestria?...are you sure he's not just leading you all into a trap? I mean, it'd be pretty easy to tell"

Jack was walking towards the dungeon steps. Then looked back the moment Spike finished those words "Think whatever you want. I don't have time for this...Let's just kick Wuya's butt already."

As Jack walked up the steps, Spike found his reaction confusing "Geez, what's his problem?"

"Ah know it's gonna sound strange, but he's havin' some friendship problems" Applejack said, feeling sympathetic after seeing how things went sour for him.

".....and everypony should care why?...he's a bad guy...you guys know that right?" Spike was in disbelief, he was sure he was just tricking his friends.

"Ah know how yer probably feelin' right now Spike, I was right there with ya. But if ya saw what ah saw. You'd feel mighty sad for him too. The fella may be bad. But surprisingly,he's got a heart somewhere down there...and it's sorta crushed right now" Applejack told Spike

"annnnnnnnd?" Spike was rolling around his hand "I ask again....everypony should care why?"

"Spike, just get in that there hole and get outta here. We don't got time to be explaining everything right now" Applejack pointed to the hole

"nu uh! Now that i'm outta that cage, I wanna show at least somepony a piece of my mind!" Spike said as he flexed his arm. "You guys might need some of my firepower!"

Applejack sighed, stayed silent for a moment, then spoke "Rarity is evacuating the townsponies on her own and might need you in case she gets ambushed"

"WHAT?!?! YOU GUYS LEFT RARITY BY HERSELF?! SHE CAN'T DO THAT KIND OF THING ON HER OWN! THATS A LOT OF PONIES TO MANAGE!" Spike yelled, freaking out.

"then ya better get going then" Applejack lowered her head to his, her eyes halfcocked.

"DON'T WORRY RARITY! I'M COMING!" Spike said as he jumped into the hole.

Vinyl walked up to Pinkie "yo, hey. Sorry I missed the party" She rubbed the back of her head "sooooooorta was tied up with other things"

Pinkie gave her a smile and a hug "It's no biggie, party was cancelled due to a nasty case of evil. You're good."

"Right right..heh..you don't mind if I get outta here do ya?Fighting ain't really my jam, you won't think bad of me, will ya?" Vinyl said, feeling bad she wanted to leave. But she knew she couldn't handle anything this insane.

"It's ok, but do you mind keeping an eye on Fluttershy?" Pinkie asked, her expression unchanging, she was ok with Vinyl leaving

"an eye on me? You're not going to ask me to leave...are you?" Fluttershy asked, it didn't seem she wanted to leave.

"Sorry sugarcube, but things are gonna get hairy pretty quick. And we don't want ya to get hurt" Applejack told her, showing concern

"..mmmm..surely we can reason with Wuya? She seemed so nice" Fluttershy wanted to solve the issue without a fight.

"Ain't gonna happen. Wuya is bad to the bone. Even managed to crush that there Jack's feelings. She's got none of her own. Hate to say it, but she can't be helped. She's worse than even those dang ole' changelings."

Fluttershy looked down, feeling sad "B-but, if what you say about Jack is true, then sure-"

"Ain't gonna happen Fluttershy, sorry. She wasn't anypony's friend. She just wanted to use us to get what she wanted. ah think right now she and Twilight are dukin' it out. So we gotta hurry. Just get outta here ok? We'll take care of that no good Wuya"

Fluttershy reluctantly nodded. She didn't want to necessarily leave. But she didn't want to argue with her friend either. And if Twilight was in danger. Then things were serious. "Alright,but please please please please please pleaseeeee be careful. Ok? Pinkie, you too"

They both nodded

"Don't worry about us, as long as we all have our backs. Then nopony is going to stop us!" Pinkie Pie assured Fluttershy.
With that, Vinyl and Fluttershy exited through the hole.
The Jackbot had nothing to say as he exited, he only silently set his mission to protect his new friends.

Jack was already up the steps, looking down a hallway, there seemed to be a labyrinth ahead of him. "where's that good for nothing Good version of me?"

Suddenly, he could hear a couple of voices coming down one of the hallways.

Jack hid to the side, it was a couple of diamond dogs. Seemed they were talking about how teaming up with Wuya may have been a bad idea. Since they'd have to go up against the entirety of Equestria. They thought she was crazy.

Jack let them pass, then behind them, he could hear another voice. he looked over to see what it was, as it sounded familiar

"let's see, and if I go that way, it should lead me here...so if I got everything mapped correctly, turning the corner here should take me to the....OH HI JACK! I DIDN'T KNOW YOU ALREADY GOT HERE!" Good Jack had just turned the corner, and waved to his good self

"Get over here!" Jack pointed straight down, to signify him to step forward.

Good Jack rushed up "Alrighty! I got the whole castle mapped out! Aren't you proud?"

"What? Of something I could do? No, of course not. It's easy to do when nobody can see you." Jack's tone was near venomous.

"...come on Jack...you don't need to be so harsh, I know what happened back there looked bad. But she'll come around. You just gotta be good!" Good Jack tried to raise the spirits of his other half.

Jack took his snare gun and shot at Good Jack, the net going right through him. He just gave a stoic stare ".....I wish that worked..."

Good Jack frowned "....come on...you gotta turn that frown upside down! You've bounced back before, everytime! You can do it again! Do it for Scoots!"

"Yeah, do it for Scoots...And tell me, why should I when she hates me, huh? Do me a favor and just do your job. And get us to the throne room without us getting torn up, alright? When this is all over, you're going to leave me alone so I can get back to doing what I do best. Got that?" Jack's expression was emotionless, his heart just wasn't in it.

"o-ok Jack...if that's what you want. Let's just wait for the others..ok?" Good Jack didn't know what else to say, and could just lament on the pain his other half was feeling.

"Ugh...fine...this is taking forever" Jack groaned.

Applejack and Pinkie made there way up the stairs. Pinkie waving to Good Jack. "heya other Jack..hey.." Pinkie noticed his less than jovial look "what's the matter?"

"I can't get Jack to cheer up" Good Jack said

"oh?...maybe a song will cheer him up? Do you want a song Jack?I got plenty of gooooood ones" Pinkie went and nudged at him, causing him to groan

"Er, ah don't think now is the time for a song and dance number. If Jack is right, Wuya is gettin more powerful by the minute. We better mosey as quick as we can." Applejack suggested

"Yeah, let's listen to the country bumpkin and everyone be quiet. I don't want to talk about anything other than the mission" Jack brought his face inches to his good self "Got that?"

Good Jack nodded, his frown only worsened "..you're right...I'll lead the way" Good Jack turned "Everypony follow me! Pinkie, can you relay everything I say to Applejack?"

Pinkie nodded "Of course! Come on Applejack, he wants us to go this way."

They started to follow good Jack down the corridors and stairways. Jack staying a little ways back from the group. "....look at him, not even fully here and still happy as a clam. I don't get it. He's just me, but without the class, the style. And yet nobody hates him.....Ok so I did lie...but come on, I saved Scoots life. That should be like, automatic forgiveness. But nooooooo, apparently being evil is a bad thing and should be condemned. Nobody can let me have my way."

"Welllll, if we let you have your way. how are you supposed to learn anything?" A voice said from Jack's side.

He turned and jumped back in surprise "You?!" It was Pinkie "but, weren't you just ahead..what?!...how did you get there!?"

"Well, you were kind of speaking out loud and you sounded kind of sad and good Jack said you were really feeling awful, so I thought I'd try to help" Pinkie said "Just call me Dr.Pinkie!"

"I don't need any help from a silly pink horse. I'm fine, absolutely peachy" Jack put on an absurdly fake smile. "see?"

"aww come on, don't be like that. Why don't you tell me what's getting you down" Pinkie poked at him

Jack shoved her hoof away "Don't touch me.And nothing's wrong. Other than being stuck with a dweeby version of me, a hick, and you. And the possibility that we're all going to die. Everything is just fine!"

"So, you don't care about Scootaloo then?" Pinkie asked

".......Of course I don't..I'm evil, duh. If she doesn't want to join me at my side then fine. It's no skin off my nose, it happens all the time. stupid ingrates..." Jack looked to the side, his face didn't match his words.

"Well, I don't think anypony was going to let you just walk off with her. But you know what I think? I don't think it was about her being your evil general. I think at some point...it really was more of just being your friend. I think inside, you had given up on the whole general thing." Pinkie said

"yeah, uh huh. You think I was just going to turn over a new leaf and skip across meadows and pick flowers? Nice try, but I'm no wimp" Jack was giving Pinkie an annoyed look

"Oh no, I don't think you we're going to turn super good or anything. But I gotta admit. How you were when you attacked compared to when you were talking to Scootaloo was reeeaaallly different. I think you really did like having a friend. Just as much as you like being evil. And while I don't think you'd give up being evil...I DO think you wouldn't be evil around Scootaloo if it meant hurting her" Pinkie was absolutely sure of it.

Jack got into her face, shaking his finger "That's not....You...not even close...that's...I'm no......................." Jack raised himself back up and continued walking

"I knew it! you still care! Why act like you don't and be all mean if you still care?" Pinkie was curious

"are you really that stupid? She doesn't want to be my friend anymore. And you know what? That's fine, because when it's all over. I can get back to my world and get back to conquering it. Maybe I'll conquer you all first. Since you're all so easy to beat, how does that sound? Does it scare you? huh?" Jack looked into her eyes, but saw no fear

"Nope. you know what you need, Jack?" Pinkie asked

"Headache medicine?....because you're giving me a headache" Jack sighed

"I think you need another friend. sort of a training friend. To show you how to be a friend. That way when Scootaloo comes around. You'll know how to act. Jack.....will you let me be your friend?" Pinkie looked into his eyes, her eyes glistening.

".....get out of my face" Jack said, but for some reason. Pinkie wasn't stung by his words.

"ok. But you'll see. you may not think it'll happen. But it'll happen. and you'll feel so silly!" Pinkie giggled

"Just leave me alone, geez. why do you ponies have to be so grossly goody goody. It makes me sick!" Jack gagged

"Ok....but don't get sick. We still gotta beat Wuya" Pinkie jumped forward back to Applejack and Good Jack.

They were nearing the throne room.