Heart of the Cards

The group makes their way towards the front of the academy courtyard, seeing many duelists in battle when they walk outside. Jack looks around, not seeing an open ground.

“Well that’s wonderful. No space anywhere. If this challenge is gonna be crowded like this, then we have to stay close and keep away from distractions.” Unfortunately for that case, Trixie walks up to the group. “(Speaking of distractions). Hello
Trixie.”

“Hey Jack. Mind if I talk to Twilight really quick?” Twilight comes out from behind the group. “Twilight, would you mind giving Trixie a rematch? I’d really like to give it another go this time with my new strategy.” Coming closer from behind Trixie was a familiar face and voice.

“Back off illusionist. I deserve this rematch with Twilight.” Trixie looks back, seeing Flash Sentry glaring at Twilight. “I know I deserve this for the way you treated me last time, and I’m not taking no for an answer.” Twilight takes a step towards Flash, until she’s stopped by an arm in front of her by Shining.

“How about you take me on since you’re so eager. She has work to do, but I’m available.”

“You? Are you serious? Do you realize what you’d be getting yourself into? Besides, this business involves her, not you.”

“Well when my family is involved with something, it’s all of our business. Don’t tell me you’re just scared to lose to me again Flash.”

“Please, scared to lose to you? With this new deck and strategy, you don’t stand a chance. I already won 5 duels. Alright, I accept your challenge. If you win, I’ll leave you alone. If you lose, you and Twilight follow by my rules and do whatever I say.”

“It’s a deal.” Flash turns back, walking a short distance to give each other some space for the duel. Cadence walks up next to Shining, looking at him confused and worried. “Don’t worry. I’m sure this deck will do the trick. Celestia entrusted me with it. I promise you I won’t fail.”

“Just be careful. After we saw “The Winged Dragon of RA” on the roof, things have changed here and a lot of students have
gotten hurt. I just don’t want to see you end up like Celestia. I know it’s already hard enough for Luna to watch over her sister, I couldn’t bear to see you get hurt. Be very careful alright?” Cadence steps back, as Shining looks back towards Flash, seeing Flash drop a card on the ground. It lights up purple, then sinks into it. Dark clouds start to spiral around them in intense speed. Trying to stay up, Shining sees Flash smiling.

“Flash, what’s going on?”

“I used a Seal of Darkness spell card. It infuses with our battle grounds making it so none of us could leave until one of our life points hit zero. Oh, and to add to the fun, in this duel we feel real pain from cards. I guess you can say Comet sees that I have potential, so he gave me that card.”

“I never heard of that card before.”

“That’s because it’s not a card for battle, but for the battle grounds. Don’t worry too much Shining. Even though every card is now legal, I’m not the type of guy to just bail and place in cards that cheat. I know how to win fair and square.”

“(That snake! He wanted to use this card on Twilight. Alright Comet, let’s have some fun).” Shining’s duel disk activates and Nova Ring lights up as well as Flashes. “Alright Flash, let’s go!”

Shining Armor [LP: 4000]

Flash Sentry [LP: 4000]

“Alright, I’ll start! And I activate the spell card “Double Summon” to normal summon or set 2 monsters this turn. I summon 2 “Exploder Dragon’s” from my hand in attack mode.” [1000] [1000] “Then I activate the Continuous Spell Card “Supply Squad.” If a monster I control is destroyed and sent to the graveyard, once per turn, I can draw a card. You’re move Shining.”

“I draw! I summon “Goblindberg” in attack mode.” [1400] “When this card is normal summoned, I can special summon 1 level 4 or lower monster from my hand. I summon “Heroic Challenger-Extra Sword” in attack mode.” [1000] “Due to the effect of “Goblindberg,” it switches to defense mode after using that effect.” [0] “Now I activate the Continuous Spell Card “XYZ Change Tactics.” You’ll find out what it does after this. I overlay “Goblindberg” and “Heroic Challenger-Extra Sword” to XYZ summon, “Number 39: Utopia!” [2500] “Now my Continuous Spell Card activates. By paying 500 Life Points, when a “Utopia” monster is XYZ summoned to my side of the field, I can draw an extra card.” Electricity from the ground below him emerges, shocking him, seeing him drop to his knees holding his chest.

Shining Armor [LP: 4000→3500]

“Well, I can say it was worth the extra draw.” Shining stands back up. “Since “Heroic Challenger-Extra Sword” was used for an XYZ summon, my XYZ monster gains 1000 attack.”

Number 39: Utopia [2500→3500]

“Now I activate the Spell Card “Utopia Buster.” I can target 1 monster you control with the lowest attack, destroy it, and you take damage equal to its attack, so one of your “Exploder Dragon’s” is gonna take the bullet.” One of Flashes “Exploder Dragon’s”, seeing the ground below him build up electricity like Shining. When it emerges, Flash smiles, taking the shock that was caused to him as damage. “Don’t tell me you didn’t feel that.”

Flash [LP: 4000→3000]

“When you know the power you have, you tend to ignore the pain. Due to the effect of “Supply Squad,” I get to draw 1 card.”

“I’ll place 1 card face down to end my turn.”

“I draw! I tribute summon “Exploder Dragon” to summon, “Zarborg the Thunder Monarch!” [2400] When this card is tribute summoned, I can destroy 1 monster my opponent controls. Say goodbye to Utopia.”

“Nice try Flash, but I activate my face down Continuous Trap Card “Number Wall.” By targeting 1 number monster I control, it can’t be destroyed by battle or card effects. The only way it’ll be destroyed is by battle and it’s by another Number monster.”

“Well then, I guess I’ll have to change. I activate the spell card “Double Summon.” I can summon 2 monsters this turn. I tribute “Zarborg the Thunder Monarch” to summon, “Mobius, the Mega Monarch!” [2800] “When this card is tribute summoned, I can target up to 3 spell/trap cards on the field and destroy them, so “Number Wall” is no longer in play. I place 1 card face down to end my turn.”

“I draw! I summon “Command Knight” in defense mode.” [1900] “While she’s on the field, all Warrior-Type monsters I control gain 400 ATK points.”

Number 39: Utopia [3500→3900]

“Utopia,” take down that “Mega Monarch!”

“Not so fast. I activate my face down Trap Card “Draining Shield.” Your attack is negated and my life points are increased by your monsters attack power.”

Flash [LP: 3000→6900]

“I’ll end my turn.”

“I draw! I summon “Marshmacaron” in defense mode.” [200] “I’ll end my turn.”

“I draw! I summon “Field-Commander Rahz” in attack mode.” [1600→2000] “When this card is normal or special summoned, I can choose from my deck 1 Warrior-Type monster and place it at the top. (Let’s see. This card should work). Let’s battle! “Utopia,” take down that “Monarch!”

Flash [LP: 6900→5800]

“The effect of “Supply Squad” activates, allowing me to draw a card.”

“Doesn’t mean my turn is over. “Field-Commander Rahz,” slice and dice that pink blob!”

“Thank you Shining, cause now you have double the trouble. Since “Marshmacaron” was destroyed, 2 more from my deck get 2 come onto the field.” [200] [200]

“I’ll end my turn.”

“I draw! Let’s have some fun. I activate the Field Spell “Domain of the True Monarchs.” You’ll find out what it does after I tribute 1 “Marshmacaron” to summon “Kuraz the Light Monarch!” [2400] “When this card is tribute summoned, I can destroy up to 2 cards on the field, then for each card destroyed, the owner of the destroyed card can draw 1 card for it. I’ll take out my spare “Marshmacaron” and your “Utopia.” And now the effect of my Field Spell activates. While I control a tribute summoned monster and no Extra Deck, your Extra Deck is completely worthless Shining.”

“What?! Are you saying I can’t use it as long as you control a tribute summoned monster?!”

“Correct. Since “Kuraz” was just summoned this turn, it can’t attack, but the effect of “Supply Squad” activates since my monster was destroyed by a card effect, so another card comes to my hand. Now I activate the Continuous Spell Card “March of the Monarchs.” All tribute summoned monsters I control can’t be targeted or destroyed by card effects. My turns over.”

“I draw! (I don’t know what to do now. My whole deck is about having Utopia on the field. With “Domain of the True Monarchs” on the field, I can’t do anything that involves him). I summon “Necro Gardna” in defense mode.” [1300] “I’ll end my turn with that.”

“Looks like the Knight in Shining Armor can’t do much now. I draw! I activate the Spell Card “Tenacity of the Monarchs.” By revealing 1 monster from my hand that has 2400 ATK & 1000 DEF, or 2800 ATK & 1000 DEF, I can add 1 “Monarch” Spell/Trap from my deck to my hand. I’ll show you this. “Zarborg the Mega Monarch” to add to my hand “Return of the Monarchs,” then I’ll activate the Continuous Spell. Now I tribute “Kuraz the Light Monarch” to summon, “Zarborg the Mega Monarch!” [2800] “If this card is tribute summoned, I can target 1 monster you control, and destroy it. I choose “Command Knight,” which lowers your Warrior-Type monsters ATK points.”

Field-Commander Rahz [2000→1600]

“Return of the Monarchs” activates. When I tribute summon a monster, I can add to my hand I monster with 2400 ATK & DEF 1000, or 2800 ATK & 1000 DEF from my deck with a different name than the monster I tribute summoned. I choose “Caius the Shadow Monarch.” “Zarborg,” destroy “Field-Commander Rahz!” And in case you didn’t know, “Domain of the True Monarchs” gives my tribute summoned monsters an 800 ATK point boost when it declares an attack!”

Zarborg the Mega Monarch [2800→3600]

Shining [3500→1500]

Electricity from the ground below Shining charges up, hearing him scream when it shocks him. Shaking, he stays on his feet while looking down.

“Look at you, your trembling where you stand. I’ll let you surrender if you want, and your life might be spared.” Shining looks up, glaring at Flash.

“A great warrior never surrenders from battle, no matter what the outcome looks like. I always fight to the end. I was entrusted with this deck, and I promised not to lose. I’m gonna keep that promise. I draw! I summon another “Necro Gardna” in defense mode.” [1300] “Then I’ll end my turn.”

“I draw! I set 1 monster face down in defense mode and my turn. Don’t worry Shining, I don’t wanna kill you off to early yet. I wanna see you tremble.”

“I draw! I place 2 cards face down and end my turn.”

“You’re making this too easy for me Shining. I draw! Now the fun begins. I flip summon my face down monster “Scapeghost.” When this card is flip summoned, I can special summon any number of “Black Sheep Tokens” to my side of the field. 3 open spaces mean 3 will come to the field. I’ll keep them in defense mode.” [0] “I tribute “Scapeghost” to summon, “Caius the Shadow Monarch!” [2400] “When this card is tribute summoned, I can target 1 card on the field and banish it. If it happens to be a monster of a DARK attribute, you take 1000 damage. I think “Necro Gardna” will do.” Shining screams again when getting electrocuted, seeing him drop to his knees.

Shining [LP: 1500→500]

“Also, “Return of the Monarchs” activates again, so I’m adding “Granmarg the Rock Monarch” from my deck to my hand. Shining, it’s no use to keep fighting. You can’t win no matter what you do. Last chance to give up, and I’ll cut you a deal to only take your sister.” Very slowly, shining stands back up, not saying a word. “So that’s a no. Fine, we’ll do this the hard way. “Caius,” take down his defense!” Cadence yells out from the back.

“Shining no!”

“You’re finished! Zarborg, end him!” Zarborg attacks, seeing an explosion from Shining’s side of the field. “Game over Shining. I thought you would be different this time, but once a failure, always a failure.”

“That’s what you think Flash, but you’re wrong.” Flashes eyes widen with shock, seeing Shining still standing on the other side of the field.

“What?! You should’ve been finished! I ended you!”

“Not quite Flash. When you sent “Necro Gardna” to the graveyard, you helped me out. I activated its effect before your attack went through. By removing it from play, I can negate one of your attacks.”

“You’re finished next turn Shining.”

“You’re not gonna have a next turn Flash. I’m ending this. These cards in my deck I always believed in, and even now, I don’t give up hope. Let’s just say a relative of mine taught me that. This next draw will change this duel around.” Shining draws his next card, smiling when seeing it. “It’s over Flash. I activate the Spell Card “Glorious Numbers.” Since I control no monsters, I can target 1 “Number” XYZ monster in my graveyard, and special summon it. I know I can’t use my extra deck since “Domain of the True Monarchs” is on the field, but my graveyard is still available. “Come on back “Number 39: Utopia!” [2500] “With the effect of “Glorious Numbers,” I can draw 1 card. Also, by removing that Spell Card from play, I can attach 1 card from my hand to it as XYZ material, but I think I’ll save these. I activate a monster effect from my hand. “ZW-Lightning Blade.” By equipping this card with “Utopia,” it gains 1200 ATK.”

Utopia [2500→3700]

“I now activate an Equip Spell Card “Reverse Breaker.” While it’s equipped to Utopia, whenever it attacks, 1 can destroy 1 Spell/Trap card you control. “Utopia,” destroy “Caius the Shadow Monarch!” since I’m attacking with “Utopia,” I’m destroying “Domain of the True Monarchs!”

Flash [5800→3500]

“Now my Extra Deck is open for business, which give me the ability to activate my face down Trap Card “Halfway to Forever.” I can target 2 monsters in my graveyard and special summon them to the field. I special summon “Heroic Challenger-Extra Sword” and “Command Knight” to the field in attack mode.” [1000] [1200] “You know the effect of “Command Knight,” but due to the effect of my Trap Card, the effects are negated and I have to immediately XYZ summon with those 2 monsters. I overlay both of my special summoned monsters to XYZ summon, “Number 39: Utopia!” [2500]

“What a waste. You XYZ summoned the same monster you already have on the field but with XYZ material on it.”

“That’s what I wanted so I could do this. By using “Number 39: Utopia” as XYZ material, I can XYZ summon, “Number S39: Utopia Prime!” [2510] “Now I activate my other face down Trap Card “XYZ Effect.” When I XYZ summon a monster, I can target 1 card on the field and destroy it. I’ll get rid of “March of the Monarchs.”

“No! My defenses!”

“Now you’re available for anything. Since your life points are at least 3000 higher than mine, I can pay life points till I only have 10 left and detach 3 XYZ materials from this card and destroy all special summoned monsters you control. When they’re destroyed, they’re banished, and you take 300 point of damage for each. The only ones I see are your 3 “Black sheep Tokens,” so you’re taking 900 points of direct damage.”

Shining [LP: 500→10]

Flash [LP: 3500→2600]

“Since I control a “Utopia” monster, I activate this last card from my hand. The Spell Card “Utopia Buster.” I can target 1 monster you control with the lowest attack on your side of the field, destroy it, and you take damage equal to your destroyed monsters attack. You’re finished Flash!”

“(I was actually defeated. He managed to bypass all of my defenses).”

“Fire “Utopia!” Destroy “Zarborg the Mega Monarch.” An explosion comes from Flashes side of the field, seeing him drop to his knees looking down.”

“(I’m sorry Comet…)”

Flash [LP: 2600→0]

“(I have failed you).” A large purple spiral portal behind flash appears, with 4 chains exiting out of it, wrapping around flashes wrist and ankles, dragging him back towards the portal.

“Flash!” Shining runs over to Flash to try to help, but is too late as the portal closes with him dragged inside. The dark clouds around the duel disappear, only seeing the Seal of Darkness spell card appear from the ground where it dropped, then vanishes. “…Flash…” Cadence runs up and hugs him from behind, seeing tears run down her face.

“I was so scared for you. I thought you would’ve lost.” She looks into his eyes, seeing him disappointed. “Shining, what’s wrong?”

“…Flash. This shadow game killed him. That Seal of Darkness Spell Card is not an existing card, and it was given to him by
Comet.”

“You mean-?”

“They made a deal. I guarantee that’s not that only one that was made, and not with that only student. Comets using others to try to get rid of us.” Luna’s voice is heard from a radio in Jack’s pocket.

“Jack? Jack are you there? Can anyone hear me?” Jack pulls out the radio, responding to Luna’s call.

“Luna, this is Jack. What’s going on?”

“Jack, my sister’s awake. I don’t know how, but I saw a dark spiral of clouds outside. I thought that must’ve meant you guys were in trouble. When it left, I heard my name from her. She’s fully awake now. I’m trying to get her to see if she remembers anything.”

“Good to hear Luna. Keep us updated.” Jack places the radio back in his pocket. “Guys.” Everyone looks back at Jack. “Chancellor Celestia is awake now. Luna doesn’t know how, but when Shining won the duel, apparently she woke up. All we need now is information from what she remembers. All we can really do right now is wait it out.” Another voice from a distance from a mare comes closer to them.

“While you rejects are waiting on whatever this is, I have something to take care of with you know who. Cadence, shall we?” Cadence looks over, immediately glaring when making eye contact. “Is that a yes or a no?”

“You really need to get over yourself Moondancer. You don’t know what we’re doing, so I don’t have time for you right now.”

“You have time to replace me though right? Yeah, I still remember. For those of you that don’t know, I’ll explain. When this academy opened, I was the one that helped Cadence with the preparations along with Shining Armor to make this place look presentable. I had an idea of a tournament to rank the duelists the came here, but she wanted to have everyone just be equal. That’s not how things work when I’m around. There has to be at least a top 10 ranking list, but apparently there was no time for that. She kept stalling and pushing back all of my ideas. Shining’s ideas were perfect for her, but once I had one, there was no thought put to it. I got so sick of my ideas being pushed aside that I challenged her for her place as the director. We didn’t get chance to finish, but by the looks of it, I was about to win until security was called in, stopping the duel and escorting me to Luna and Celestia. I was suspended from dueling for 2 weeks and my deck was confiscated. I know you were the one that called them Shining, so I should have a real bone to pick with you, but I’ll deal with you after I beat Cadence and take my place as the new director. I’m gonna make a lot of changes around here, starting with expelling certain students and firing some employees.” Jack whispers over to Rainbow Dash standing next to him.

“Talk about obsessed.”

“I heard that. Anyway, we still have unfinished business Cadence. I’m not letting you walk away this time. Get over here and face me. What you need is new lesson to be taught to you.” Cadence walks away from the group towards Moondancer with her duel disk activating and Nova Ring lighting up.

“What you need is a therapist. You’re right, we still have unfinished business, and it’s about to end right now.”

“Let’s Duel!”

Cadence [LP: 4000]

Moondancer [LP: 4000]

“I’ll start off Cadence. Since this tournament allows any card to now be put in play with 3 of the same card in 1 deck, I’ll start by placing a face down card. Then I activate the Spell Card “Pot of Greed.” I draw 2 cards. Then I activate another Spell Card “Graceful Charity.” I draw 3 cards and discard 2. I then activate this Spell Card “Upstart Goblin.” You gain 1000 life points and I get to draw 1 card.”

Cadence [LP: 4000→5000]

“Catching on yet Cadence?”

“You keep drawing cards and not laying any monsters down to protect you. Judging by this, you’re waiting for “Exodia.”

“You actually found out. With your Synchro deck, you dont stand a chance. Now, let’s continue. I set 1 monster face down in defense mode. Then I set 2 more cards face down. I end my turn.”

“(A monster set face down with an “Exodia deck?” This’ll be different). “I draw. I set 3 cards face down. Then I activate the Quick Play Spell Card “Fires of Doomsday.” 2 “Doomsday Tokens” appear on my side of the field in defense mode.” [0] [0] “I can’t summon anything else for the rest of this turn due to the effect of “Fires of Doomsday,” but I can set. I set 1 monster in face down defense mode to end my turn.”

“I draw! I flip summon my face down monster. “Des Lacooda.” [500] “When it’s flip summoned, I can draw 1 card, then place it back face down. I set another monster face down defense mode. Then I activate my face down card “Reckless Greed.” I draw 2 cards and skip my next 2 draw phases.”

“I activate my face down Trap Card “Present Card.” You discard your entire hand and draw 5 new cards. I count 8 now that you’ve drawn 2 more with reckless greed, so all of those are gonna go to the graveyard. Then I activate my face down Continuous Trap Card “Magical Thorns.” With this card, any card that you discarded to the graveyard, you take 500 damage for each.”

“What!? But if 8 cards were sent, that means that’s 4000 damage. Wait a second, “Present Card?” That’s my card from my deck that was confiscated. Come to think of it, so is “Fires of Doomsday” and “Magical Thorns.” Wait, that’s my Damage Draw deck.”

“That’s right Moondancer. This is you’re confiscated deck. Everytime we tried to return it to you, you refused. I made some arrangements and decided to use it as my own. See, I knew you we’re gonna use an Exodia deck from the last time I visited you. In your room, I saw you placing the 5 pieces in your deck along with many other drawing cards. I heard you won your duels from that day on. Knowing that you were still upset with me, I knew you would come back for a challenge again, so I came prepared with your deck.”

Moondancer [LP: 4000→0]

Moondancer drops to her knees looking down.

“I can’t believe this. I lost against my own deck. I had everything I needed to get my revenge, and I still lost.” Cadence walks over to her, taking a knee by her, seeing tears run down Moondancer’s face. “I’ll always be a failure. A disappointment.”

“Moondancer, I know what potential you have. You were so obsessed with power and wanting that ranking list so you could be on top of it, you’d do what you can to make anything you wanted happen. Not everything is about power or control. I pushed your ideas away since all of them were based around power and control. You don’t need power to show yourself, that brain of yours already does it.” Cadence takes out the deck from her disk, giving it to Moondancer. “This original deck belongs to you. Please, take it. It’s not mine to control.” Moondancer wipes her eyes, taking her deck and holding it to her chest. A smile slowly grows on her face.

“Thank you Cadence.”

“Just to let you know as well, I didn’t say at any time that you were fired. I was just waiting for you.”

“You mean?”

“I look forward to any ideas you might have in the future.” Moondancer stands up, removing the “Exodia” deck from her disk and replacing it with her original deck. Cadence stands back up, smiling. “I guess I’ll see you soon.”

“Without a doubt.” Moondancer leaves towards the field with other ponies dueling.

“Well that finally got settled.” A voice on the intercom calls out for a name in the group.

“Will Fluttershy please report to room 1150?” Fluttershy looks back at the academy, confused.

“That’s strange. I recognized that voice. That sounded like…my brother, Zephyr Breeze. Something telling me this isn’t good. Especially since room 1150 is the Main Duel Arena.” They all hear a scream from inside the academy. “Zephyr!” Fluttershy runs towards the Main Duel Arena with the others following. As everyone runs inside, Twilight stops, looking back seeing Shining Armor and Cadence staying behind.

“Aren’t you coming?” Shining smiles, crossing his arms.

“Now why would you need us? Whoever that was called for someone in your group specifically, which means you need to be there to support them. Cadence and I are gonna keep things safe out here.”

“Alright, just don’t get hurt.” Twilight runs back towards the Academy to catch up with the rest of the group.

[Main Duel Arena]

They all run inside, seeing Zephyr Breeze in a duel with an unknown pony with a dark blue coat and a white mane. Fluttershy yells out to him, heading towards the platform.

“Zephyr what are you doing?”

“I heard what was happening Fluttershy. I didn’t want you to get hurt, so I tried to warn others in the academy. Then I ran into her. She challenged me to a duel for your freedom in this situation, but it doesn’t look like it’s going well right now.” The unknown mare smiles, looking down at Fluttershy.

“So, you’re Fluttershy? The names Zer0. It’ll be an honor defeating you right after I’m done with your pathetic brother.” Zer0 Looks back at Zephyr, seeing him shaking, trying to stay standing.

“Now, where were we? Ah yes, It was my turn. I draw. I tribute “Mad Archfiend” to summon “Skull Archfiend of Lightning.” [2500] “Since “Pandemonium” is on the field, I don’t have to pay life points for its effect. Then I activate “Raigeki” to destroy all monsters on your side of the field. Say goodbye to all 3 “Fire Hands.”

“I guess we’re gonna make a trade. You have 3 monsters on the field as well. When “Fire Hand” is sent to the graveyard, each one can destroy 1 monster you control. Also, I get to special summon “Ice hand” from my deck in replacement.”

“Not if there effects activate first. If they’re targeted by an effect of a card, all I have to do I roll a die with each of their effects. “Skull Archfiend of Lightning” will go first. To negate your card, I need a 1, 3, or a 6.” Let’s see what the dice says.” A single dice is tossed by Zer0, landing on a 6. “First one is negated. Now for “Terrorking Archfiend.” I have to roll a 2 or a 5.” She tosses the dice again, seeing it land on a 2. “Tough break. Finally “Desrook Archfiend.” All I need is a 3.” She tosses the die, seeing it land on a 4.

“Ha. I guess your luck ran out.”

“I wouldn’t be so sure handsome. I still have a face down that I’m activating since the number I rolled wasn’t the one I wanted. The Trap Card “Dice Re-Roll.” The effect of my last roll is now negated and I get to roll again.”

“You’re kidding.” Zer0 tosses the die, seeing it land on a 3.

“All of your “Fire Hands” are negated, which leaves you wide open for a direct attack by “Skull Archfiend of Lightning.” With only 1600 Life Points left, you lose.” When Zephyr gets attacked directly, he fly’s back from the attack, managing to flip while in the air and lands hard on his stomach.

Zephyr [LP: 1600→0]

Zephyr looks up, seeing Zer0 walk towards him.

“I’m sorry Fluttershy. I tried my best.” Zer0 looks down at him smiling. “Do your worst you witch. I’ll never join your side.”

“My, such language and disrespect from someone as handsome as you. I’m afraid you don’t have a choice in the matter. The deal was if you won I’d let you go. I won, and I’m gonna keep up my end of the deal.” Dark chains arrive from the ground under him, wrapping around his wrist, ankles, and neck. The chain wrapped around his neck pulls back, making Zephyr face Zer0. “Now, you shall do my bidding.” She pulls out a card from her jacket seeing Fluttershy recognize it.

“The Seal of Darkness Spell Card. Zephyr no!” Zer0 throws it on the ground in front of him, seeing dark clouds surround, him creating a powerful wind moving back Fluttershy. He screams as Fluttershy pushes herself forward to get to him. Twilight calls out to her, while blocking trying to stay in place from the wind.

“Fluttershy come back! It’s too dangerous!”

“(I don’t care. He's my brother, and I’m gonna help him).” The darkness around Zephyr fades away at the same time the wind calms. The chains holding him release him, seeing him look down with his eyes closed. Zer0 walks closer towards him. “Stand up. You shall do my bidding, Deadnight.” Zephyr slowly stands up, facing Zer0.

“Yes, my mistress. I am at your command.”

“Even more cute when you’re like this.” Fluttershy calls out to him, still walking towards him.

“Zephyr?” He turns back, staring at Fluttershy smiling with pitch black eyes. “No.” Zer0 laughs, walking up next to Zephyr.

“Adorable isn’t he? The Seal of Darkness card isn’t only for battle grounds. It has an amazing use with possession as well. That intercom call you heard earlier was from Comet. He wanted you to see your brother fail in front of you, and that wish came true. Now since Deadnight is under my control, he shall do my bidding, starting with getting rid of some of the ponies in control of this place. Comet likes a work area big and not crowded so he can work in without any distractions, so getting rid of the heads will make things easier for him.” Fluttershy’s duel disk activates and Nova Ring lights up, jumping onto the arena.

“That’s not gonna happen. I’m dueling you in a shadow game to release my brother. No isn’t gonna be an answer I accept, so let’s throw down.”

“A duel for a family member? How touching. It would be a shame if he got hurt in the process of this wouldn’t it? What do you think about this challenge Deadnight?” His duel disk activates and Nova Ring lights up.

“Challenge accepted.”

“Very well. The duel will commence, but I have to go talk to Comet about this little incident, but since your brother is doing my bidding, he’s completely available. If you do manage to defeat him, I’ll be waiting for one of you. You’ll know where to find me.” Dark clouds appear from beneath Zephyr and Zer0, seeing Zephyr appear on the other side of the arena, and Zer0 completely gone. Fluttershy looks over at Zephyr, seeing him glaring at her.

“(I have to face him? I can’t. He’s my family, and if I hurt him…wait Fluttershy, you have to do this. Even if he gets hurt, this isn’t currently your brother you’re looking at. This is Deadnight, and he’s being controlled and you have to save him. You can’t be scared now. You have to do this). Alright, bring it on.”

“Very well. Since you don’t seem scared, let’s make this interesting.” The ground beneath them shakes, seeing metal bars appear from beneath the ground moving over them and creating a cage. “Now nobody can go in or out until this duel is finished.” Dark clouds spiral around Fluttershy for 10 seconds, then when they disappear, they all see a different Fluttershy, with fangs, extra fur, and red eyes. “Bat pony suits this situation even more. You’re welcome.”

“I’ll make you pay for this!”

Deadnight [LP: 4000]

(Bat Pony) Fluttershy [LP: 4000]

“I’ll start! I discard 1 card from my hand to special summon “Apprentice Illusion Magician” from my hand!” [2000] “When it’s normal or special summoned to the field, I can add 1 “Dark Magician” from my deck to my hand. Now I summon “Magician’s Rod” to attack mode.” [1600] “When this card is normal summoned, I can add to my hand 1 Spell/Trap card the specifically lists “Dark Magician” in its text. I choose the Continuous Spell Card “Dark Magical Circle,” in which I’ll activate now. By using this, I look at the top 3 cards of my deck and add to my hand any card that has “Dark Magician” in its name or text. I choose “Dark Magic Inheritance.” Next I’ll activate the Spell card “Monster Reborn.” I can target 1 monster in my graveyard and special summon it, and the only one there is “Dark Magician Girl!” [2000] “I’ll end my turn with that.”

“Very well, I draw! For a change of scenery, I activate the Field Spell Card “Pandemonium.” Any “Archfiend” monster that either of us summon on the field doesn’t require you to pay life points for the standby phase. Next I activate the Continuous Spell Card “Field Barrier.” This card keeps my Field Spell safe from being destroyed. I summon “Shadowknight Archfiend” in attack mode.” [2000] “Any damage you take involving this card is cut in half. “Shadowknight Archfiend,” destroy “Magician’s Rod!”

Bat Pony Fluttershy [LP: 4000→3800]

“I place 2 cards face down to end my turn.”

“I draw! I activate the Spell Card “Dark Magic Veil.” I pay 1000 life points to special summon a DARK Spellcaster-Type monster from my hand or graveyard. From my hand, I special summon, “Dark Magician!” [2500]

Bat Pony Fluttershy [LP: 3800→2800]

“Dark Magic Circle” activates. Since “Dark Magician” was special summoned to the field, I can target 1 card you control and banish it. Your “Shadowknight Archfiend” is leaving the field.”

“Not so fast. The effect of “Shadowknight Archfiend” activates. When targeted by a card, I get to roll a six sided die. Shall it land on a 3, you Spell Card effect is negated and destroyed.” Deadnight tosses a die towards the middle of the arena, seeing it stop on a 3. Fluttershy’s Continuous Spell Card leaves the field when the die stops. “Too bad Fluttershy. It seems your plan has failed.”

“Not just yet. “Dark Magician,” destroy his monster!”

“I activate my face down Trap Card “Negate Attack.” Your monsters attack is blocked and your battle phase is ended.”

“I end my turn.”

“I draw! I summon “Vilepawn Archfiend” in attack mode.” [1200] “While this card is on the field, no monsters you control can attack “Archfiend” monsters I control except this one. I’ll end my turn.”

“I draw! I place 1 card face down. “Dark Magician Girl,” attack “Vilepawn Archfiend!”

“I activate my face down Quick Play Spell Card “Ego Boost.” 1 monster I control gains 1000 attack, which will be “Vilepawn Archfiend.”

Vilepawn Archfiend [1200→2200]

Bat Pony Fluttershy [LP: 2800→2600]

“I end my turn.”

“I draw! I activate the Spell Card “Upstart Goblin.” You gain 1000 life points and I can draw 1 card.”

Bat Pony Fluttershy [LP: 2600→3600]

“I summon “Terrorking Archfiend” in attack mode.” [2000] “Then I switch “Vilepawn Archfiend” to defense mode.” [200] “I place 1 card face down to end my turn.”

“I draw! I activate the Spell Card “Dark Magic Attack.” Since I control a “Dark Magician,” all Spell/Trap cards you control leave the field.”

“Foolish mare. You forget that “Field Barrier” protects my Field Spell “Pandemonium.” Not every Spell and Trap card leaves my side. Also, I’m activating my face Quick Play Spell Card “Fires of Doomsday” before it’s destroyed. This card allows me to summon 2 “Doomsday Tokens” to my side of the field in defense mode.” [0]

“Well I’m not done. “Apprentice Illusion Magician,” destroy “Vilepawn Archfiend!” “Dark Magician,” take out one of his Tokens!”

“Is that all Fluttershy? I surely expect more from you. It’s a shame that you won’t be here long enough to see your team fail.”

“Are you gonna lecture me or are you gonna fight?”

“Eager to lose I see. Very well, I draw! Let the fun begin. I sacrifice all 3 monsters to summon and evil god! Rise, “The Wicked Dreadroot!” [4000] “When this card is normal summoned to the field, all monsters on the field beside this monster gets there ATK and DEF cut in half.”

Apprentice Illusion Magician [2000→1000]

Dark Magician [2500→1250]

“The Wicked Dreadroot, attack “Dark Magician!”

“Hold on! I activate the effect of “Apprentice Illusion Magician.” During the battle phase, if any DARK Spellcaster-Type monster I control is battling, I can send this card to the graveyard and increase my monsters ATK by 2000.”

Dark Magician [1250→3250]

Bat Pony Fluttershy [LP: 3600→2850]

Twilight looks at the play Fluttershy just made confused.

“I don’t get it. Even with that move, Fluttershy still didn’t have enough power to defeat “The Wicked Dreadroot.” Why would she do something like that knowing that both of her monsters would be gone?” Jack smiles looking up at Fluttershy’s determined expression.

“She knows that she’ll draw a better card. She’s willing to give up what she has to fight for her family. I could tell before that she didn’t want to fight him, but doing so and defeating him would be the only way to set him free. She knows what she has to do to win this. The only thing we can do now I hope for the best.” Deadnight laughs, seeing Fluttershy looking down.

“What’s wrong dear Fluttershy? Your teammates believe in you though you’re going to fail. Your field is empty, and you have nothing else to do.”

“…wrong Deadnight. There’s always a trick up my sleeve, just wait. I draw! I’m reveling this card to you to special summon it. “Palladium Oracle Mahad!” [2500] “I know it’s a level 7 monster, but since I came to my hand during a draw phase, all I have to do is reveal it to special summon it on the turn it is drawn. He also has an effect. If it battle a DARK monster, its attack automatically doubles. That would make it stronger than “The Wicked Dreadroot.” I guess certain gods do fall after all, especially the evil ones. “Palladium Oracle Mahad,” destroy “The Wicked Dreadroot!”

Palladium Oracle Mahad [2500→5000]

Deadnight [4000→3000]

“My turn is over.”

“Lucky shot for that. You won’t be so lucky next time. I draw! I activate the Spell Card “Pot of Greed,” allowing me to draw 2 cards. I activate another “Pot of Greed” to draw 2 more cards. I place 1 card face down. Then I summon “Archfiend Calvary” in defense mode.” [0] “I activate the Equip Spell Card “Mist Body.” While “Archfiend Calvary” is equipped with this card, it can’t be destroyed by battle. My turn is over.”

“I draw! (His monster can’t be taken out just by an attack, so I gotta figure out a way around this).” I activate the Continuous Spell Card “Dark Magical Circle.” You should remember this from earlier. I look at the top 3 cards of my deck and add 1 card to my hand that list “Dark Magician.” I happen to have “Dark Magician” in the 3 cards I just pulled, so that card will be added. Now I activate the Quick Play Spell Card “Dark Magic Inheritance.” I can banish 2 Spell Cards from my graveyard and add to my hand 1 Spell/Trap card that list “Dark Magician” in its text from my deck. I banish “Dark Magic Attack” and “Dark Magic Veil” to add to my hand “Thousand Knives.” (Wait, I still only have 1 monster on the field. I can’t bring out “Dark Magician” just yet).” I end my turn.”

“So much effort with so little to do. I draw! I activate the Spell Card “Graceful Charity.” I draw 3 card and discard 2. Now I activate the Spell Card “Pot of Avarice” I can target 5 monsters in my graveyard, shuffle them into my deck and draw 2 cards.”

“Nice try, but you only have 4 from when I counted.”

“Count again after “Graceful Charity.” I discarded a monster and a Spell Card to keep this card. Now “Shadowknight Archfiend,” “Vilepawn Archfiend,” “Terrorking Archfiend,” “Infernalqueen Archfiend” and “The Wicked Dreadroot” will all go back to my deck and be shuffled, allowing me to draw 2 cards. Now I activate my face down Trap Card “Jar of Avarice.” I target 5 cards in my Graveyard, shuffle them into the deck and draw 1 card. “I choose “Fires of Doomsday,” “Upstart Goblin,” “Negate attack,” “Ego Boost” and “Graceful Charity.”

“(He’s just increasing cards in his hand while keeping his deck together. Something tells me this isn’t good).”

“I place 1 card face down and end my turn.”

“(He didn’t summon anything? This definitely isn’t good.) I draw! I place 1 card face down and end my turn-”

“Before that, I activate the Quick Play Spell Card “Fires of Doomsday.” 2 “Doomsday Tokens” come to my side of the field in defense mode.” [0]

“(Again? He must’ve drawn “The Wicked Dreadroot” with those drawing effect cards).”

“I draw! I sacrifice both “Doomsday Tokens” to summon, “Imprisoned Queen Archfiend!” [2600] “I’ll end my turn.”

“(Still not attacking)? I draw! “Palladium Oracle Mahad,” destroy “Imprisoned Queen Archfiend!” And remember, “Palladium Oracle Mahad” attack doubles when it battles a DARK monster.”

Palladium Oracle Mahad [2500→5000]

“Nice try, but that damage is going to you instead. I activate my face down Trap Card “Half Counter.” Half of the original attack of your monster gets added to my monsters attack, so now my monster gets a 2500 ATK point boost as well, leaving your monster to be destroyed.”

Imprisoned Queen Archfiend [2600→5100]

Bat Pony Fluttershy [LP: 2850→2750]

“Palladium Oracle Mahad” effect activates. When it’s destroyed by battle or card effect, I can special summon 1 “Dark Magician” from my hand, deck, or graveyard. This one’s gonna come from my graveyard.” [2500]

“Do you realize what you just did? Bringing out a weaker monster from a stronger monster won’t help you Fluttershy.”

“Not unless this weaker monster is what this deck is based off of Deadnight. That’s why I had this face down card from my last turn. I know “Dark Magician” can’t destroy “Imprisoned Queen Archfiend” with an attack. That’s why I’m not attacking anymore and moving to my second Main Phase. I activate my face down Trap Card “Magician Navigation.” I can special summon 1 “Dark Magician” from my hand.” [2500] “Then I’m allowed to special summon a DARK Spellcaster-Type monster from my deck. I choose “Apprentice Illusion Magician” in defense mode.” [1700] “Since it’s no longer the battle phase, you know what that means.”

“Wait, you played this out?”

“That’s right. I was waiting for a while till I got the right cards. Enough chit chat, let’s get back to action. “Dark Magical Circle” only activates once per turn, so I’m banishing your “Pandemonium.” Now for any “Archfiend” monster that requires you to pay life points during your standby phase, you’re gonna pay no matter what. Here’s the real fun part. I sacrifice “Dark Magician” to special summon, “Dark Eradicator Warlock!” [2500]

“1 tribute for a level 7?”

“That’s part of its effect. It requires only “Dark Magician" for tribute. Since I still a "Dark Magician" on my field, I activate the Spell Card “Thousand Knives.” Since 1 control “Dark Magician,” I can target 1 monster you control and destroy it. “Archfiend Calvary” is gonna take 1000 shredding’s.”

“Fool. You didn’t know the effect of “Archfiend Calvary.”

“Actually, I did. Since it couldn’t be destroyed by battle while “Mist Body” was equipped, I was betting it had an effect for being destroyed by card effect. I was guessing it falls under special summoning from the graveyard when destroyed, but who do you have in your graveyard to summon since you used “Jar of Avarice?”

“No way.”

“You should keep track of that next time as well as your life points. While I control “Dark Eradicator Warlock,” if either one of us activates a Normal Spell Card, you’re taking a 1000 life point damage hit for it.”

Deadnight [LP: 3000→2000]

When Zephyr takes damage, she notices his body is fading with the damage he takes. She looks down at herself, seeing her legs as shadows. (So this is how we pay. Alright Zer0, I’m gonna end this and take you down for good).”

“I draw!” Deadnight takes 1000 damage from the effect of “Imprisoned Queen Archfiend,” seeing his body fade away even more.

Deadnight [LP: 2000→1000]

“I must admit, that was an attempt that would’ve been successful if you would’ve thought first. I activate the Field Spell Card “Pandemonium.” I always keep spare of my cards. I activate the Equip Spell Card “Megamorph,” equipping it to “Imprisoned Queen Archfiend.” Since my life points are lower than yours currently, the monsters current attack that this card is equipped to doubles.”

Imprisoned Queen Archfiend [2600→5200]

“Now, your “Dark Eradicator Warlock” is gonna take the hit!”

“I’m using the effect of “Apprentice Illusion Magician” again to give my monster a boost of 2000 ATK.”

Dark Eradicator Warlock [2500→4500]

Bat Pony Fluttershy [LP: 2750→2050]

“Now that trouble is out of the way, I activate the spell card “Pot of Greed” to draw 2 cards. Now I activate the Spell Card “Raigeki” to destroy all monsters you control.”

“Nice try, but I activate the effect of the Trap Card “Magician Navigation” in my graveyard. Since I control a “Dark Magician,” I remove from play “Magician Navigation” from my graveyard to negate the effect of “Raigeki.”

“You should’ve accepted your fate. I activate the Spell Card “Pot of Desires.” 10 cards from the top of my deck get removed from play, then I draw 2 cards. How about I activate another “Pot of Greed” to draw 2 more cards. Now I activate the Quick Play Spell Card “Mystic Wok.” I can target 1 monster I control, destroy it, and gain life points equal to its ATK or DEF. I’ll increase my Life Points by the ATK of “Imprisoned Queen Archfiend.”

Deadnight [LP: 1000→3600]

Parts of his body that were faded away come back clear.

“Now I activate the Spell Card “Monster Reborn.” I can target 1 monster in either of our graveyards and special summon it to my side of the field. “Archfiend Calvary” will be special summoned in attack mode.” [1900] “Now I activate the Spell Card “Dark Hole” to destroy all monsters on the field.”

“But your monster is gone as well. You just summoned it.”

“But the effect of “Archfiend Calvary” activates. Since it was destroyed by a card effect and sent to the graveyard, I can target 1 “Archfiend” monster in my graveyard and special summon it. Rise again, “Imprisoned Queen Archfiend!” [2600] “Pandemonium” has an effect as well. Since an “Archfiend” monster was sent to the graveyard except by battle, I can add 1 “Archfiend” monster from my deck to my hand with a lower level than the destroyed one. I’ll bring to my hand “Desrook Archfiend.” I normal summon “Terrorking Archfiend” in attack mode.” [2000] “My turn is over. Don’t you see how easily the tables can change Fluttershy? Your field of monsters was almost full, and now look. You have nothing to protect yourself. Nothing you do will save you. You've lost.”

“…no…I’m not giving up that easily. I know you’re still in there Zephyr, and I’m gonna get you out. I draw!” [!] “Alright, this is it. I place 1 card face down to end my turn.”

“Something tells me that card is gonna be a problem. No matter, I draw! I activate the Spell Card “Mystical Space Typhoon” to target and destroy that face down card.”

“Thanks, cause it was the Continuous Trap Card “Magicians' Defense” you just destroyed. Since it was sent from the field to the graveyard, I get to special summon a Spellcaster-Type monster from the graveyard. Who else other than “Dark Magician!” [2500]

“That face down card wasn’t going to cause me trouble. If I would’ve attacked, it would’ve been over. You were bluffing.”

“Of course I was. I needed you to destroy this card to use the effect of my Continuous Spell Card “Dark Magical Circle.” “Dark Magician” was summoned while this card is on the field, which means one of your cards has to be banished. “Imprisoned Queen Archfiend” will leave this game. Now you have nothing to take me out with.”

“Hmph. I switch “Terrorking Archfiend” to defense mode.” [1500] “I end my turn.”

“I draw!” (What the, this card was never in my deck before. How'd this get here)?” There’s a flash of light that appears in the middle of the field, revealing Spark.

“Hello Fluttershy.”

“Spark?”

“It is I Fluttershy. I have the ability to freeze time in certain situations. Everyone and everything around you is frozen in place, so nobody knows I’m here. I don’t have much time, but I wanted to tell you that I placed 5 Spell Cards in your deck. I know you were hesitant earlier about you deck and it’s a DARK attribute, so while you were watching the duel between Shining Armor and Flash Sentry, I happened to slip them inside your deck. It wasn’t the card that you see now, but it appears to be what you need now. Use the first card Fluttershy, then the rest will come to you and you can end this duel.”

“But I don’t know what you mean. I need your help.”

“I cannot guide you Fluttershy. This is your destiny to control. I know you can do this.” He disappears, seeing everything back to normal. “(My destiny to control. Alright, I hope this works). I activate the spell card “Pot of Greed” to draw 2 cards.” Pinkie Pie points out a situation in the middle of the duel, surprising her.

“Wait a second. Fluttershy never had that card nor ever placed that card in her deck. She doesn’t use any banned cards even for this offer in the tournament.” Jack smiles, slightly looking to his left seeing Spark watching the duel, then disappearing.

“(Spark you sly little spirit).” Fluttershy looks up at Deadnight, with tears slowly forming.

“(I’m sorry for this Zephyr, but this has to end here and now). I discard 1 spell card to activate the effect of the Spell Card “Double Spell.” By discarding 1 Spell Card, I can target 1 Spell Card in your graveyard and use it as my own. I’m targeting “Pot of Avarice.” By using it, I can target 5 monsters in my graveyard, shuffle them into the deck and draw 2 cards. I'm targeting “Palladium Oracle Mahad,” “Dark Eradicator Warlock,” “Dark Magician,” “Apprentice Illusion Magician” and “Dark Magician Girl.” Now that I’ve done that, I activate a Spell Card from my graveyard known as “Galaxy Cyclone.” Deadnight looks at her surprised.

“You never had that card in your graveyard before.”

“I needed to discard a card to use the effect of “Double Spell.” This is the one I discarded. With the effect of “Galaxy Cyclone,” I just have to remove it from play to target 1 face up Spell/Trap card you control and destroy it. “Pandemonium” seems like a good fit since that’s the only one you have. Now I summon “Magicians Rod” in attack mode.” [1600] “When this card is normal summoned, I can add from my deck to my hand 1 Spell/Trap card that list “Dark Magician” in its text. I’ll take “Thousand Knives.” I also activate the Spell Card “Spellbook of Knowledge.” I can send to the graveyard 1 Spellbook card in my hand or on my field or another face up Spellcaster-Type monster I control and draw 2 cards. I’ll send away “Magician’s Rod.” (This is it. The last new card). I activate the Spell Card “Monster Reborn.” I can target 1 monster from either of our graveyards and special summon it to my side of the field. I bring back a monster from my own graveyard. “Dark Magician!” [2500] “With the special summon of “Dark Magician,” “Dark Magical Circle” activates, allowing me to remove from play I card you control. The only one protecting you is “Terrorking Archfiend.”

“(My monsters. They’re gone. My field is completely empty).”

“You’re finished Deadnight. There’s nothing you can do with “Desrook Archfiend” being the only card in your hand.”

“(I was outsmarted in my own arena. I have failed to proceed with Comets acts. Out of all of this that happened…)”

“First “Dark Magician,” attack him directly!”

Deadnight [LP: 3600→1100]

“Second “Dark Magician” end this now!”

“(I accept my fate).” When the attack lands, dark clouds surround Fluttershy, seeing her go back to normal when they disappear. Deadnight drops to his knees, looking down with his eyes closed.

Deadnight [LP: 1100→0]

Seeing Zephyr’s body slowly disintegrating, Fluttershy runs over to him, instantly drooping to her knees and hugging him.

“I’m sorry Zephyr. I didn’t want to hurt you.” Zephyr opens his eyes, seeing them as normal color again, smiling when hugging his sister back.

“Fluttershy, for the sake of the academy, your friends, and family, be strong. Don’t give up, and don’t give in.” His body fully disappears, seeing Fluttershy holding his duel disk to her chest while crying. The ground shakes as it did before, seeing the steel cage seal back in the ground beneath them. Twilight walk over to Fluttershy, sitting on her knees beside her.

“I know it hurts Fluttershy, but promise we’ll get him back. This’ll all be over before you know it. Once this is over, you and your brother will be reunited. Trust me Flutter, we’ll get him back no matter what it takes.” Fluttershy wipes her eyes and stops crying, standing up and smiling at Twilight.

“I know. That's why we have to keep fighting.” They turn back, walking towards the rest of the group.

“By the way, I noticed 5 spell cards in your deck that you never used before.”

“Oh, um, well.” Fluttershy looks over at Jack, seeing an image of Spark next to him. “I found one of Jacks card binders by the door of his room. I thought they would come in handy later on.”

“Thinking ahead huh? Smart.” Twilight and Fluttershy meet back up with the group, seeing Applejack “Amazoness Fighter” appear out of Applejacks deck.

“Hello Applejack.”

“Amazoness Fighter? You’re real? Wait a sec, this is like what Spark said before in the room.”

[Flashback]

“Darkness is coming for every duelist they can find, and they won’t stop until they have the power they want. They search for strong duelists with spirits who they can connect with in there deck. Jack can connect with his cards due to their bond.”

[Reality]

“The connection. Alright “Amazoness Fighter,” I can only guess you’re here to help us.”

“Isn’t that what friends are for Applejack? That scream came from a way’s away. My guess, it echoed down the halls from the far side of the academy. The target is moving quickly for a spirit.” Unexpectedly, a 2 headed bird comes out of the hall, landing on “Amazoness Fighters” arm. “Did you find anything?” It drops small note from its beak into her hand. “Thanks. I can always count on you.” It flies off, as “Amazoness Fighter” gives the note to Pinkie Pie. “It has your Cutie Mark symbol. This must be for you. That bird friend of mine that you all saw was “ZW-Eagle Claw.” He’s a helper of Utopia.”

“Utopia? That’s what Shining Armors deck is based off of. Must be his card.” Applejack turns back to Pinkie, seeing her open the note. “Well, what’s it say?”

“It burns from the ground beneath, so be careful where you turn. Lose this battle in the kingdom of fire, you and your family will drop and burn.”

“Pinkie, ya know I hate riddles. Explain that to us.”

“It’s Zer0. She wants me to duel her at the Volcano. Not only to stop her, but for the freedom of my family. She’s taken my sisters captive.” Pinkie crumbles the note in her hoof, seeing her hair deflate and go flat. “She chose the wrong family to mess with, especially with my family. The Pie family. We’re moving now. Let’s go.” Pinkie starts to walk off, followed by the rest of the crew, seeing Jack stay in the back with Spark, that nobody else currently notices.

“You’re a real sly spirit, you know that Spark?”

“I do what I can to help. Pinkie looks very determined, do you think she knows what she’s getting into?”

“Point is, she really doesn’t care. She’s determined as the rest of us are to get through this mess. This is the first of the Spirits that we’re facing, but Zer0 is nothing I’m sure we can’t handle. (At least I hope so. First time some pony else besides me is facing a threat like this. I just hope Pinkie knows what danger lies ahead).”