Duelists Of Divinity

Chapters

Rank 1: A Dress Fit For A Queen
Rank 2: School Lockdown
Rank 3: Playtime
Rank 4: The investigation begins
Duelists Of Divinity Rank 0 prologue

Rank 1: A Dress Fit For A Queen

Author's Note

Hi guys from this point we are making up our own cards.

Rank 1: A Dress Fit For A Queen

New years had come and gone. Sunset and her friends were now ready to start the new school term. The girls were making their way to school, talking about what they each got up to over the Christmas holidays. When they got to the school, they turned to look at the plinth which once held up the Wondercolt Statue that was damaged by Midnight Sparkle.

Sunset sighed a little. “Hey, do you guys think there'll ever fix the statue?” She asked.

Before anyone could answer, they all heard a voice from the other side of the plinth. “Don’t worry, sis, there are already plans to get the old thing fixed.”

Sunset recognised the voice instantly. “Oh no, not him.” she groaned.

“Not who, Sugarcube?” Applejack asked.

And then someone walked out from behind the statue base, it was Solar Force.

The girls gasped at Solar Force and then Pinkie Pie gave one of her famous overreactions. “OH MY GOD SUNSET MULTIPLIED!” She screamed at the top of her lungs.

Solar Force gave Pinkie an amused look. “So this is the famous Pinkie Pie I have heard about who has the best overreactions in the whole school. And all of these other girls must be your friends, right sis?

Twilight turned to look at Sunset, “Is he your brother from Equestria?” She whispered.

“We are not siblings!” Sunset shouted.

“Why do you say that, sister?” asked Solar Force with a slight smirk.

“Because your Principal Celestia's nephew!” Sunsat shouted angrily.

Solar Force just laughed. “Man Sunset, you should learn to take a joke.”

Sunset glared at him. “Why don't you buy a better joke book?” She retorted.

Solar Force, still laughing, started to walk away. “Alright, catch you girls later.” He said with a wave.

“You know darling, you and him do look rather alike.” Said Rarity

Sunset groaned, “Yeah I know, he just annoys me that’s all.” She said.

Just then the school bell rang. “Come on y’all, we don’t want to be late for first period.” Said Applejack. The Girls all agreed and headed inside the school.

Once everyone has made it to class and taken their seats, Principal Celestia then made an announcement to the whole school through the PA system. “Attention all Students. welcome back to the new school year. I hope all of you had a wonderful Christmas and new years. I know this year at Canterlot High is going to be a great year. And now without further ado, all I can say is study hard and have a good day.” Principal Celestia then ended her speech and turned off the PA system.

In Sunsets class, the teacher stood at the front of the classroom. “Alright class, we have a new student joining us today.” Then the door opened and Solar Force walked in. He stood in front of the classroom.

Solar Force introduced himself to the class, “Hi guys, my name is Solar Force, I hope we can all get along.”

Sunset’s face was frozen, but in her head, she was fuming. “Why can’t I get away from this guy?!” She thought in frustration.

The teacher then pointed out a empty seat next to Sunset and told Solar Force to sit next to her.

Solar Force walked over to the seat next to Sunset and sat down. He turned and smiled at Sunset, but she just tried to ignore him.

Throughout the day, Sunset waited for the next time Solar Force would try to tease her, but to her surprise, nothing happened. In fact, Solar Force was nothing but a good Student all day. He worked hard, he was friendly to everyone, and didn’t try to tease Sunset even once.

The last bell of the day had now rung, and Sunset was talking to her friends about Solar Force. “I just can’t believe it.” She said “It was like Solar was a different person.”

“Maybe he’s just buying time before he strikes again.” Rainbow Dash said.

“Or maybe he’s not as bad as you might think.” Said Applejack. “Don't judge an apple by its tree.”

“Well it sounds like this Solar Force has been nothing short of a perfect young gentleman to me.” Said Rarity. “Well anyways darling's, I have to run now.” She continued. “My new sewing machine is coming soon and I want to be there when it gets delivered.”

The girls say their goodbye's and Rarity got into her car and drove to her Boutique.
Shortly after Rarity got home to her Boutique, she here’s a knock on the door. She walks over to answer it. It was the delivery man with her new sewing machine.

The delivery man walks in with her package and put it in the middle of the room. “Okay, here's your package.” He said, holding up a clip board. “Just sign here and here, please?” he asked.
Rarity signed the papers and the delivery man left her to her business.

Just then, Sweetie Belle, Rarity’s younger sister, walked into the room and saw Rarity setting up her new sewing machine, “Oh, is that the new….” Sweetie Belle was interrupted by Rarity.

“Yes it is and you are not allowed to touch it, definitely after what happened last time.”

“Aww, come on Rarity please.” Sweetie Belle pleaded.

“No, Sweetie Belle.” said Rarity firmly.

“And besides, didn't you say you had plans with your friend’s?” Rarity asked.

“Oh, that’s right.” Sweetie Belle remembered.

Then she grabbed her backpack and run out of the Boutique, giving a quick bye to Rarity.

Now that she was alone and able to work in peace, Rarity finished setting up her new sewing machine. “Alright, let’s get started.” She said.

She carefully placed a strip of fabric underneath the machines sewing needle. But when she pushed on the foot paddle to start the machine, it seemed to be jammed. “Oh no, don’t tell me it’s broken?” Rarity said with a frown.

She then took the machine apart and found a what looked a card wedged in the mechanism.
“A card?” Rarity said. “How did that get there?”

Rarity carefully pulled the card out and held it up to look at it. “Is this a Duel Monsters card?” She said.

Rarity then turned the card over to look at the other side and saw it was blank, except for a black outline. “That’s strange, why is it blank?” She said.

But before anything else could happen, a dark mist surrounded her. “What’s happening, ahhhh?!” Rarity screamed as she clutched the sides of her head and fell to her knees.

And then, she could hear a deep, demonic voice inside her head.
“Yes Rarity, let the Number take hold!”

The dark mist surrounding Rarity faded away, and she rose from the floor and smiled as if she was possessed. “Hahahahaha!” She laughed maniacally. “Yes, I’ll make the perfect dress!” She said as a bright number 52 glowed on her chest.

The next day, in front of the school, Sunset and the others were waiting for Rarity.

Twilight looked at the time on her phone. “Classes will be starting soon. Where is she?” She said, looking slightly concerned.

“I don’t know, she’s not picking up her phone, it just keeps ringing.” Replied Applejack.

Just then, running towards Sunset and the others was Sweetie Belle in a panic.

She ran up to Sunset, huffing and puffing. “Sunset, I need your help, it’s Rarity, she won’t stop making dresses and when I tried to get her to stop all the dresses came to life, grabbed me and threw me out of the shop, it’s crazy!” She said frantically.

Rainbow Dash gave a sceptical look. “Ok, making dresses, that’s one thing, but dresses that come alive and attack you, that is just crazy.”

“Alright,” said Sunset, “Here’s what we’re going to do. I’ll go and see what’s up with Rarity and you guy’s stay here with Sweetie Belle and tell Principal Celestia what’s happening.”

As Sunset turned to leave, Sweetie Belle spoke up, “Sunset? I’m worried about my sister. Can you please help her?”

Sunset gave Sweetie Belle a reassuring smile. “Don’t worry. What evers up with your sister, I’ll do everything I can to help to help her?” She said.

“Thanks, Sunset.” Said Sweetie Belle

With that, Sunset ran off toward Rarity’s Boutique.

What none of them realised, was that Solar Force had heard some of the conversation and was watching Sunset as she left. “Where are you off to? And what’s that about dresses that attack you? I think I should investigate this.”

Outside Rarity’s Boutique, Sunset approached the door and knocked. “Rarity?” She called. “It’s me, Sunset! Are you okay in there?”

When she got no reply, Sunset carefully opened the door. Inside, there were dresses everywhere, covering every surface, all of them were exceptionally beautiful. At the back of the shop, she could see Rarity hard at work at her Sewing Machine, making yet another beautiful dress.

Rarity looked very closely at her latest creation, scrutinising every single detail. “NO!” She yelled angrily. “IT’S NOT PERFECT!” She threw the dress aside and immediately began to make a new dress.

With a concerned look on her face, Sunset slowly approached Rarity. “Hey Rarity, are you ok?”

“Yes, I'm fine!” Rarity replied without looking at her, continuing to work on next dress.

“It’s just we're worried about you,” Sunset continued. “And I think you have made enough dresses for one day.”

“I've told you I’m fine!” Rarity snapped at Sunset. “Just get out of my sight and let me work!”

Then, without warning, the dresses floated up off the floor, and started flinging themselves at Sunset, trying to push her back out of the shop.

Sunset ducked and dodged as best she could. “This is just like what Sweetie Belle said happened to her.” She said. “But I don’t understand. Rarity can’t do something like this. How is this possible?”

Just then, Solar Force walked in through the open door of the shop. “Ah,ha!” He said while pointing his finger. “Caught you skipping school.” He froze in his tracks when he saw what was happening. “What the heck?!” He exclaimed.

Rarity looked up at Solar Force with a furious glare. “Why are there so many interruptions while I am trying to create perfection?! Get out!!” she shouted. Then the dresses started to attack Solar Force as well as Sunset.

Solar Force covered his head with his arms. “Whoa, it’s like a scene from Kill La Kill in here.” He said.

As Rarity continued to work franticly at her sewing machine, she could then here that same demonic voice in her head again. “The Key! Challenge that Girl to a Battle. Win the Key from her and then you can achieve your Magnum Opus.”

At this, Rarity finally stopped sewing. She then stood up, extended her left arm, and one of the dresses attached her Duel Pad, and placed her Duel Gazer over her eye. The other dresses stopped attacking, and floated behind their creator as Rarity stepped forward. “Sunset, I challenge you to a Duel and if I win you must give me that Key around your neck!” She said.

Sunset starred in confused shock at Rarity. “A Duel? Now? You can’t be serious? And why would you want my Key?” She questioned.

“I think she’s beyond serious here.” Solar Force cut in.

“I am not letting you leave until one of us has won this Duel!” Threatened Rarity.

Sunset could see she had no choice. “All right Rarity. If that’s the way you want it, I accept your challenge. Maybe beating you will knock some sense into you.” Sunset was about to ready herself for the Duel, but then she realised she forgot her own Duel Pad back at her Apartment. “Oh, no!” She said.

“What’s the hold up Darling?” Rarity snickered.

“What’s wrong? Don’t you have your Duel Pad?” Solar Force asked.

Sunset shook her head hesitantly.

Solar Force sighed. “Alright, you can use mine for this Duel.” He offered.

Solar Force then pulled out his Duel Pad and Duel Gazer and handed them to Sunset, but Sunset only took the Duel Pad. “Actually, I do have my Duel Gazer with me.” She said.

Solar Force stared at her for a moment. “You had your Duel Gazer but not your Duel Pad? Unbelievable!” He groaned.

Sunset ignored him, putting on the Duel Disk along with her Duel Gazer. “Alright Rarity. Let’s Duel!” She said.

“With pleasure Darling.” Rarity said with a Smirk.

Rarity and Sunset activated there Duel Pad and Duel Gazers, inserted there Decks into their respective Deck Holders, which were then automatically shuffled, and drew 5 cards into their hands.

“Let’s Duel!!” They shouted in Unison.

Sunset Shimmer: LP 4000 - Rarity: LP 4000.

Solar Force walked to the middle of the Dueling Field. “Alright, this is how we will decide who goes first.” He said. He pulled out a coin, tossed it into the air and caught it, placing it on the back of his left hand and hiding it with his right hand. “Call it!” He shouted.

“Heads!” Called Sunset.

“Tails!” Shouted Rarity.

Solar Force lifted his palm and looked at the coin, which showed Heads. “It’s Heads, Sunset gets the first turn!” He announced. Solar Force walked over to Sunset. “Good luck kid.” He said under his breath.

“All right, I Draw!” said Sunset as she draw her sixth card, and looked at the cards in her hand carefully, planning her strategy. “Ok, looks like i got a good start here.”

Sunset then pulled a card out of her hand. “I’ll start by setting one card in Defence mode, and I’ll set another card as well.” Two set cards appeared in front her, one horizontal, and one vertical behind it. “That ends my turn.”

“About time!” Said Rarity impatiently. “It’s finally my turn! I Draw!” She said as she drew one card from her Deck. She smirked at the card she had just dawn. “First I'll activate the Spell Card Brilliant Fusion! This card allows me to send three of my precious Gems from my Deck to the Graveyard, in order to Fusion Summon a more Brilliant Gem. So now I Fuse Gem-Knights Tourmaline, Emerald and Garnet!”

Three armor clad figures appeared behind Rarity, only to be pulled into a swirling Vortex made up of many Colours.

“Now, Tourmaline, unite with your comrades, Emerald and Garnet, to create the most radiant Gem of them all! I Fusion Summon! Gem-Knight Lady Brilliant Diamond!” Rarity commanded with her arms extended toward the sky.

A tall female Warrior descended from the Sky, clad in heavy armor, with a number of large Gemstones covering it, and a short red cape draped across her shoulders. She had a Rapier style sword in her right hand.

Gem-Knight Lady Brilliant Diamond: ATK 0/ DEF 0.

“Gaze upon her Radiance!” Said Rarity dramatically.

“Yep. She’s possessed by something alright.” Sunset said, rolling her eyes. “She’s even more flamboyant than usual. But still. A Fusion summon right from the start. And even though it’s weakened by her Spell card, Brilliant Diamond is still one of Rarity’s heavy hitters. What is she planning?”

“Now!” Said Rarity As she continued with her turn, “I activate the Spell card De Fusion from my hand! By sending Lady Brilliant Diamond back to my Extra Deck, I can summon the Fusion material monsters I used to summon her from my Graveyard! Now appear my beauties, Tourmaline, Emerald, and Garnet!” Lady Brilliant Diamond Shimmered and Vanished, and three other warriors took her place, each wearing different colored armour, Red, Yellow and Green.

Gem-Knight Tourmaline: ATK 1600

Gem-Knight Emerald: ATK 1800

Gem-Knight Garnet: ATK 1900

“Now the time has come to show you my greatest masterpiece!” Said Rarity with a flourish.

Sunset was confused. “What is she doing? Summoning a Fusion monster just to un fuse it? That’s not something she’d normally do. She may have three level Four monsters but…” She gasped. “Can it be?”

“I now Overlay my Three level Four Monsters to Build the Overlay Network!” Continued Rarity. Her three Knights turned into three streaks of Brown light which shot into the air, as a Galaxy like portal appeared on the Field, which the three lights shot into. “In order to XYZ summon my Number Card!” From the Portel, emerged a huge diamond, which transformed into a beautiful woman with crystal like skin and wearing a white, Diamond encrusted dress. On her chest, was a symbol which resembled the number 52. Circling her were three points of brown light. “Behold! Number 52: Diamond Queen Adamant! Gaze upon her beauty!”

Number 52: Diamond Queen Adamant: ATK 2500 / DEF 2000

Sunset could not help but gaze in awe at the Magnificent creature that Rarity had Summoned. “Wow! She’s beautiful! But where did Rarity get this Card? I’ve never heard of it. She definitely didn’t have it before. And what’s a ‘Number Card’?” Upon a closer look, Sunset noticed something strange. The woman’s head was slightly bowed, and she had a deeply forlorn look on her face. “That’s weird. Why does she look so sad?” She asked.

“She is sad because fool’s like you keep getting in my way from making her the most perfect dress that she deserves!” Rarity Yelled.

Rarity then continued with her turn. “Now I’m going to remove one of her Overlay Unit’s to activate one 1 of her 3 possible effects, and I choose the first one! Now Darling, my fabulous Queen Adamant can attack you directly!” One of the circling points of light was absorbed into both of of her hands and became a pile of crystals. “Time for Battle! Attack! Adamant Barrage! Number 52: Diamond Queen Adamant threw the crystals at Sunset, most of them hitting her and sending her flying backwards towards Solar Force.

Sunset Shimmer: LP 4000 - 2500 = 1500

Sunset struggled to get back on her feet as Rarity just laughed at her sadistically. “You should just stay down, Dear. After all, there’s no way you can beat now! I Set one card and end my turn!”

Solar Force run up to Sunset. “Hey, are you okay?”

Sunset was now back on her feet. “Yeah, I'll be fine.” Sunset replied. She looked up at Diamond Queen Adamant and saw what seemed to be tears streaming down her face. “Do you see that? It looks she’s crying.” Sunset questioned

“Yes, she is indeed crying.” Said an unfamiliar voice.

Sunset looked at Solar Force “Did you say something?” She asked.

Solar Force looked at her in confusion. “Ummm, no. Why?” He asked back.

Sunset looked around in confusion herself. “Well if not you, then who?”

Then she looked to her other side and blinked at what she saw. Floating next to her was a light blue, semi-transparent being. Her body was covered in different patterns, and her eyes were mismatched, the left eye was white, while the right eye was amber. Her arms were folded as she looked back at Sunset. “You do know it is your turn now right?”

Sunset started at this mysterious Blue girl. “Who are you?” She asked.

“I do not remember who I am or where I came from.” The girl replied.

Sunset just gave her an awkward look. “Um, okay.” She muttered.

Solar Force was now concerned. To him, it looked like Sunset was talking to thin air. “Umm, Sunset? Who are you talking to?” He asked.

Sunset looked back at Solar Force “The weird blue girl who’s floating right next to me? Can’t you see her?”

“Who?” Solar Force asked, giving her a weirded out look. “There’s no one there. You must have hit you head or something like that.”

“Well if that’s the case then..”

Rarity then interrupted them. “Come on! I have got better things to do after this is over, so hurry up!” She said with a very impatient tone.
Sunset knew this was not the time to think about whether she was hallucinating. “Alright girl, focus!” She told herself. “Just ignore the shiny floating blue girl for now. She’s just a figment of your imagination. That or the result of mild concussion.” She thought a moment. “I hope it’s just concussion.”

Focusing back on the Duel, Sunset assessed the situation. “In just her first turn, Rarity has managed to take away more than half of my Life Ponts and she’s got a powerful monster I have never heard of. She said It has 3 effects, and it still has 2 Overlay Units left. So I need to be careful. Who knows what else it can do. It’s my turn! I draw!” She drew a card from her deck and looked at her hand.

The blue girl floated behind Sunset to take a look at her hand as well, and tried give a suggestion for her next move. “You know it might be wise if you summoned…”

But she was interrupted by Sunset. “Look I know your not real and I don’t need your help. I know exactly what I'm doing so just watch!” She said in a dismissive tone.

“Alright! First, I tribute my set monster to special summon Gogogo Golem-Golden Form in attack mode!”

Sunset’s face down monster disappeared and a giant figure in golden armour appeared on the field.

Gogogo Golem-Golden Form: ATK ???? - 4000 / DEF 1500

“I can summon this monster by sending one Gogogo monster from my side of the field to the graveyard, and the monster I sent was Gogogo Giant. Now my Golem gain’s double my Giant’s attack points, which was 2000, so my Golems ATK is now 4000! Now for my Battle Phase! I attack your Queen with my Golem! Take her down!”

Gogogo Golem-Golden Form charged towards Diamond Queen Adamant. He pulled back his huge right fist and delivered a powerful punch to Diamond Queen Adamant. Then an explosion covered the field with smoke, obscuring the two monsters from view.

Sunset gave a confident smirk. “Alright, I got her! Although, it’s not all bad news for you Rarity. Due to my Golems effect you’ll only be taking half the damage you’d normally take. Now all I have to do is…” Sunset stopped in her tracks. “What the?”

As the smoke cleared, Sunset’s eyes widened in shock. Diamond Queen Adamant was still on the Field, and Rarity had not lost any Life Points!

“What’s going on? Why haven’t your Life Points gone down?” She questioned Rarity. “And why is your monster still standing? I thought I destroyed her!”

Rarity let out a snobbish laugh with the back of her hand by her face. “Hohoho! Simple Darling. There are two reasons for that. First of all, Diamond Queen Adamant is a Number Card. And Number Cards can only be destroyed by other Number Cards!”

“That still doesn't explain about your Life Points!” Sunset shouted

“I agree. That makes no sense!” Solar Force cut in.

“I’m getting there, hold your horses. Oh and Sunset, pun completely intended!” Rarity chuckled sidisictly.

Sunset scowled at Rarity.

“Umm, what did she mean by that?” Asked a confused Solar Force.

Sunset looked at Solar Force hesitantly. “Umm, well you see… can i tell you later?” She said.

“Yeah, I think that might be for the best.” said Solar Force

The blue girl looked at Sunset. “Are you not going to tell him the truth about your place origin?” She asked.

Sunset turned and looked at the blue girl in disbelief. But before she could say anything, without warning, a crystal spear flew toward her, grazed her right side, and hit the wall next to Solar Force, missing him by an inch.

“Woah! What the heck was that?! Sunset, are you alright?” Solar Force asked, a bit shaken.

Sunset had collapsed to her knees, and was holding her hand to her to the right side of her waist, her face clenched in agony. “Do I look alright!?” She shouted. “Ow, that really hurt! What was that?!”

“Serves you right for ignoring me!” Rarity shouted with a deep scowl. “Now like I was saying, the answer to your second question, the reason why my Life Points remained untouched is because I activated my queen’s second effect, which allows me to negate all damage I would have taken and send that same damage back to you instead!

Sunset Shimmer: LP 1500 - 750 = 750

The blue girl suddenly groaned, and started to phase in and out. “Something is wrong. I feel... weak. She floated in front of Sunset and looked at her pleadingly. “I think It might be something to do with how low your Life Points have become. Please? Whatever happens, you must not lose this Duel!” She begged.

Sunset managed to push herself back on to her feet, and fixed Rarity with a glare. “Rarity, I really don’t like what you have become!” She declared. “But believe me, I’m going to win this Duel, and snap you back to your senses! I set two cards face down, and end my turn! Your move!”

“About time, Darling.” Rarity sneered. “I’m now going to end this Duel, and I’ll then be taking your Key!”

“It’s my turn! I draw!” Rarity drew her next card from her Deck. “I now skip straight to my battle phase! This is it! Go my Queen! I use your last Overlay Unit to activate your first effect once more! Now attack Sunset directly and win me that Key!”

“Not yet!” Sunset interrupted. “I’m activating my Trap card Negate Attack! Not only does this card negate your attack, but your Battle Phase is now over!” Sunset said.

“Ugh! How annoying! Fine! I will now set one card and end my turn, and I will end you in my next turn! Then I can finally achieve my perfect masterpiece!” Rarity threatened.

A tear fell from Sunset’s eye as she gazed sadly at the fanatical girl that was her friend. “This isn't you Rarity. You used to be a nice person, but now you are just like a selfish child obsessed with perfection. And all because of this darkness that has taken hold of you. But I am going to fight it and set you free! That is my promise to you!”

And then, a bright light shot out of Sunset’s deck holder on her hip. Sunset reach down and opened it. Inside, the glow was coming from a card that was not there before. Sunset pulled it out and the glow vanished. She held up the card and stared at it. “What is this?”

“A Number.” The blue girl responded. “It’s a Number Card!”

“A Number Card?” Sunset asked

“You must play that card! It’s your only hope for victory!” The blue girl pleaded desperately.

Sunset gazed at the blue girl then back at the card. Her face set into a determined frown “Alright Rarity! It’s time to end this! It’s my turn! I Draw!” She drew her next card. “I Summon Gagaga Magician!” A wizard in dark blue robes and wielding a chain appeared the field.

Gagaga Magician: ATK 1500/ DEF 1000

“And now I overlay my two level 4 monsters to build the Overlay Network!” Her monsters transformed into two streaks of light and shot into the air, as a galaxy like portal formed in front Sunset, and then the lights shot down straight into it. “I XYZ summon Number 39: Utopia!” A bright Number 39 appeared in the sky, as a huge Gold and white device emerged from the a portal. The Device shifted and unfolded until it took the form of a giant gold and white warrior, with the number 39 on his shoulder and two swords across his back.

Number 39: Utopia: ATK 2500/ DEF 2000.

“Wow!” Said an awestruck Solar Force. “That’s gotta be the coolest monster i've ever seen!”

“Hmm, yes.” Said Rarity. “I will admit he is indeed an impressive specimen of a monster. But let’s face the facts. Compared to my Queen Adamant, he is not even second best!” She said with a wicked chuckle. “And don’t go thinking it escaped my notice that both of our monsters have the same Attack Points. You may have summoned a Number card, but with equal points, they would just destroy each other!”

Sunset just smirked. “I move to my battle phase! Now Utopia! Attack Diamond Queen Adamant!” Utopia unsheathed his swords and charged forwards.

“What?!” Shouted Rarity “You fool!” Why are you attacking?! Didn’t you hear what I said?! Their attack points are equal so they will both be destroyed!”

“That’s actually the point Rarity!” Sunset shouted back.

“What?!” Shouted a shocked Rarity.

“Both of our Monsters are Number Cards!” Sunset stated. “And I can now see that they are two dangerous to be used! So I’m going to get rid of both of them!”

Rarity Scowled. “I don’t think so! I activate my face down card! Sakuretsu Armor! When you declare an attack with a monster, I can destroy that attacking monster! Say goodbye to Utopia!”

“Not so fast!” Sunset shouted. “Now I activate Utopias effect! By using one Overlay Unit, I can negate one monsters attack! And I’ll negate my own attack!” Utopia stopped in his tracks and his swords disintegrated. “And now that Utopia is no longer attacking, your Sakuretsu Armor no longer has a target to destroy!” Rarity’s trap faded away harmlessly.

“What was the point of that?” Asked Rarity “Were now back where we started.”

“Not quite.” Said Sunset. “I figured that one of your face down cards would be able to destroy Utopia if I attacked with him. And it looks I was right.”

Rarity’s eyes widened as she realised what Sunset had done. “You tricked me!” She yelled, pointing at Sunset accusingly.

“Yeah, I suppose did a little bit.” Said Sunset with a smirk. “Anyway, I think it’s time for me to end this Duel. Since my monsters attack was negated this turn, I can now activate this card from my hand! The Spell card Double Or Nothing! And I’ll use its effect on Utopia! Now he can attack again, and when he does, his attack points are then doubled!”

Number 39:Utopia: ATK 2500 x 2 = 5000

“Now let’s try this again. Go Utopia! Destroy Diamond Queen Adamant with Rising Sun Slash!” Once more, Utopia rose both of his swords and charged at Diamond Queen Adamant. This time the attack struck home, and Queen Adamant let a death scream as she was finally vanquished.

Rarity: Life Points: 4000 - 2500 = 1500

“You'll pay for that!” said Rarity “I activate my other face down card, Call Of The Haunted! Return to me my Queen!” With that, Diamond Queen Adamant reappeared on the field. “Let’s see you end the Duel now!”

“Sorry Rarity.” Said Sunset. “But that was a desperate move. One that will cost you. When I said I was going to end this Duel I meant it. I activate my face down card, Ring of Destruction! And i’ll use it on your Queen!”

A large metal ring with what looked like red grenades materialised around Queen Adamants neck. “With this card,” Sunset explained, “I can destroy one monster on the field, and then we both take damage equal to that monsters attack points.”

“You want to end this in a DRAW?” Asked Rarity.

“No, I’m ending this with my victory. I activate my other face down card! Ring of Defence!” Then another ring with four shields appeared in front of Sunset and began to spin round very fast. “This card will reduce the damage I take to Zero! It’s over Rarity. This will finally set you free.”

Sunset looked up at Diamond Queen Adamant, and for a brief moment, she saw something that made her pause. “Is she… Smiling?”

But before she could look again, the ring around Diamond Queen Adamant’s’ neck exploded, taking her with it. Sunset was protected from the explosion.

Rarity was not, and she took the full force of the impact, flinging her off her feet.

Rarity: LP: 1500 - 2500 = 0

Winner: Sunset Shimmer.

The moment the Duel ended, the blue girl returned to full focus. She then raised her hand, and a sphere of light rose out of Rarity’s chest, and floated toward the blue girl. The ball of light landed in her hand, and then faded away. In its place was Number 52: Diamond Queen Adamant. “Hmmm, is this how we obtain Number Cards? And if so, can I count on this human to fight all of the upcoming battles?” She thought to herself.

Rarity let out a groan as she sat up and rubbed her head. “Oh, Goodness. What’s going on? What time is it? And why am I on the floor?” She asked, confused.

She looked up and saw Sunset and Solar Force standing above her.

“Are you alright now, Rarity?” Asked a concerned Sunset.

“Of course I’m alright Sunset. But what is going on? The last thing I remember is having my new Sewing Machine delivered last night.” It was then that Rarity noticed the wound in Sunsets side through a tear in her shirt. She gasped and shot to her feet like a rocket, starting to panic.

“Never mined if i’m alright! What about you!? How did that happen?!” She said, pointing frantically at Sunsets exposed and slightly bloody stomach.

In the intensity of the Duel, Sunset had quite forgotten about the injury and the slight throbbing pain in her Side. “Oh that.” She said. “I guess I forgot about it.”

“How can you forget about something like that?!” Rarity said disbelievingly.

“Don’t you remember anything that happened here today?” Asked Solar Force.

“What?” said Rarity, confused.

In the back room of the shop, Rarity was watching the footage from the shops security cameras. Her jaw dropped in shock and disbelief as she saw the obsessive, and down right sadistic way she had acted, first toward her sister, and mostly toward Sunset. But what really made her feel guilty, was when she saw the moment that Sunset was injured. Knowing that she had been the cause almost made Rarity want to run over to Sunset and beg for forgiveness. But she stayed where she was and continued watching till the Duels end.

Meanwhile, Solar Force was helping do First Aid on Sunset. “Your lucky it was a only a scrape.” He said, as he finished applying the bandages around her waist. “A couple of inches to the left, and you could of been killed today. Are you sure you don’t want to go to the hospital?” He asked in a concerned tone.
“No way.” Said Sunset firmly. “If I did that, I’d have to talk to the police and I don’t want to do that to Rarity. There’s no way they’d believe us anyway. And to be honest, I’m still having trouble believing it myself.”

“Yeah, me too.” Said Solar Force. “What happened back there was crazy.”

“Wasn’t the main reason they developed the Duel Pad and Duel Gazer to prevent stuff like this from happening?” Sunset asked.

“I think so.” replied Solar Force. “Because the holograms were not really there, no damage would be caused, and no one could get hurt.”

“So how could holograms that aren't really there, suddenly be real enough to cause this?” Sunset said, pointing to bandaged stomach.

“I don’t know.” Said Solar Force. “Maybe we should ask my Aunts about it. They did used to be pros when they were younger. So they would have used the previous generation of Duel Disks a lot.” He then got back to his feet. “Ok, that should do it. Just don’t do anything to extreme for a while and you’ll be back to your old self in no time.” He Joked.

Sunset rolled her eyes, but then she smiled. “Thanks for the help Solar.” She said.

“No problem.” Solar Force chuckled.

It when then that Rarity came out of the back room and walked slowly toward them. She stopped in front of Sunset, and looked at her with a look of deep guilt on her face. She couldn’t contain her emotions, as she started to cry. “I’m sorry! I’m so so so sorry! I don’t know what happened to make me to do any of this!” She sobed.

Sunset leaned in to give her distraught friend a hug. “It’s okay, Rarity. I don’t blame you. You weren't yourself. Now stop crying. Your going to ruin your Makeup.” Sunset said with a forgiving tone.

Just then, the shop door opened again, and the other girls came into the beautique. They all stopped and stared as they saw the mess.

“What in tarnation!” Exclaimed Applejack. “It looks like there was a Hurricane in here!

“Well that’s a story and a half.” Replied Solar Force.

But before he could say anymore, Pinkie Pie instantly took over.

“It's so obvious! Rarity found a spooky evil card that took her over and made her go on a dress making rampage and then Sunset came to see if she was ok but she wasn't and when Solar Force came in then things got weird when the Dresses Rarity made started to move on their own like in Kill la Kill but out of nowhere Rarity challenged Sunset to a Duel to try and win her golden key and somehow Sunset won the duel and set Rarity free and now she’s a crying mess and that’s when we walked in! Isn’t that right?”

“Wow! That was really accurate.” Said a stunned Solar Force.

“I know. You never get used to it.” Said Sunset.

“Ok, so what now?” Asked Rainbow Dash.

“Well, I’m sure Rarity can find something to do with all these dresses.” Said Sunset. “I’ll fill you guy’s in on all the details tomorrow. I’m just too exhausted right now. You guys don’t mind waiting do you?”

“Of course not Sunset. You should go home and rest. After all, it looks look like you got the worst of it.” Said Twilight.

“I’ll walk her home.” Volunteered Solar Force.

Sunset and Solar Force walked to Sunset’s apartment. “Thanks again for all your help today.” Said Sunset.

“It’s cool.” Said Solar Force. “Who’d have thought that I would go from thinking you were skiving off School to helping you with, well, that! Oh, by the why. I just figured out what Rarity meant by ‘pun intended’.”

“You- You did?” Stuttered Sunset.

“Yeah! You used to work on an Equine Farm, didn’t you?” Asked Solar Force.

Sunset was both surprised and relieved. “Umm, yeah. You could say I worked with Ponys at one point.” She said awkwardly.

“Well, this is my stop.” Said Sunset as she and Solar Force stopped in front of Sunsets apartment. “Thanks again Solar. Can you please tell your aunts I’m gonna skip school today?”

“Yeah Sure.” Said Solar Force. “Think nothing of it. But are you sure about not seeing anyone about..?”

“I’m fine! I’m a tough girl.” Sunset insisted.

“Well just in case here’s my number. Call me if you need me alright?” Said Solar Force. He handed her a piece of paper with his number on it. “I’d better get back to School. Take care!”

Solar Force turned and walked away.

“Well that was considerate of him.” Said the blue girl, who had been following Sunset since they left Rarity's shop. “He must care about you a great deal.”

“Yeah. He’s a pretty nice guy once you get to know him. Now the question is, what should I do about you?” Said Sunset.

“We do need to talk about important matters. But before that, I can tell you that I have remember my name. I am Cosmo.” She introduced herself.

“As I have recently discovered, my missing memories and the Number Cards are linked somehow.” Cosmo explained.

“So you regained part of your memory after getting Rarity’s card?” Asked Sunset.

“Yes. I remember a very beautiful woman calling me by that name. She said that I was named after the Cosmos. But that is all I remember for the moment.” Said Cosmo.

“How do you know she was beautiful?” Asked Sunset.

“I do not know. I just know that she was. It is like a feeling I have that I cannot identify. I just know.” She said Solemnly.

“Oh, I see.” Sunset couldn’t help but feel sorry for her. “Okay, listen. It’s obvious you want your memories back, and it looks there’s only one to do that. Also, these Number Card are dangerous, and I don’t want them ending up in anyone else’s hands. So let’s make a deal. I’ll help you get back your memories and you’ll help me track down and collect all the Number Cards. Deal?” Said Sunset

“That sounds fair.” Said Cosmo.

Sunset extended her pinky finger. “Ok, let’s make a pact on it.” Said Sunset.

“Hm? What are you doing?” Asked Cosmo.

“This is called a pinky promise. In a nutshell, when two people make a pinky promise, they can never break it.” Sunset explained.
“Are you truly willing to make such an Oath?” Asked Cosmo.

“You bet, I am.” said Sunset with a smile.

“Then I will also make the same pledge.” Said Cosmo as she smiled back.

Cosmo reached out and linked her finger with Sunsets, both fingers passing through each other.

With there promise now official, Sunset then stretched her arms over her head and yawned. “Man, I didn’t realise how tired I was.”

“Yes indeed. You need rest.” Agreed Cosmo.

Sunset and Cosmo then entered the apartment to get some well deserved rest.

Sunset Shimmer has now witnessed the mysterious power of the Number Cards, but who or what is Cosmo, and will Sunset be able to keep her promise? Can she and her new friends overcome the obstacles in there way? For the struggle to obtain Divinity has only just begun.

To Be Continued...

Numbers obtained: 2

Number 39: Utopia
Number 52: Diamond Queen Adamant

Rank 2: School Lockdown

Author's Note

Hi guy sorry it took so long.
This chapter is a POV from the character’s.
In any case enjoy!

Rank 2: School Lockdown

Sunset was fast asleep, enjoying a blissful dream, when she was awakened by her annoying alarm clock.

She slapped her hand down to shut off the the insistent beeping, sat up with a groan and dragged herself out of bed. She was a mess, with a bad bed head. She looked at herself in the mirror. “Aww man, I look like I've been partying all night.” She said with a tired voice.

“Yes, you do look unpresentable, you might want to do something about that.” Said a mysterious voice.

Sunset almost jumped out of her skin as she looked around and saw Cosmo floating in the air in a sitting position. Sunset just stood there staring at Cosmo.

Cosmo looked at Sunset. “Is there something wong?” She asked.

Sunset just kept staring. “Oh god, your not a hallucination.” She said in a daze.

“Of course I am not! Why would you even think such a thing!?” Cosmo shouted, in shock of Sunset’s statement.

“Ok ok, don’t shout. I’m sorry. I thought that everything that happened yesterday was a dream or something like that.” Explained Sunset.

She then looked at the time. “Before it gets any later, I am going to get ready, just stay there.” She said as she set about getting ready for another day at school.

At the school, a young pale skinned boy with inky black hair and sitting in a wheelchair was patiently waiting for something or someone. He sniffed the air. “I can smell cinnamon.” He said, and he rolled in the direction of the smell.

A little later, Sunset was heading to the school, thinking about Rarity. “I hope she's alright after yesterday.” She thought.

When she entered the school, Solar Force was waiting for her. “Hey sis, how’s it going?” He asked, with a cheeky smirk. Sunset just rolled her eyes. “Well I feel better today than I was yesterday, so yeah I’m fine.” She said.

“Alright, that’s good to hear.” Solar said with a caring tone. “See ya later sis.”

“Yeah see ya later Solar.” Sunset said with a smile.

The two then went their separate ways.

Sunset then met up with her friends. “Hi guys. Is everyone ok?” She asked.

“We’re all fine but what about you?” Twilight asked, looking slightly concerned.

“Yeah, I’m fine, don’t worry, but I’m more worried about the whole ordeal from yesterday.” Sunset replied.

“I showed them the security footage from the shop, so we don’t have to explain what happened yesterday.” Said Rarity.

“Thanks Rarity.” Said Sunset. “Are you sure your alright, you went through a lot yesterday?” She asked with a frown.

“Well, I still find it hard to believe I was possessed by a magical trading card, but other than that I’m just fine darling.” Said Rarity with a reassuring smile.

Before anything else could happen, the school bell rang. “Okay,” Said Twilight. “Let's talk more about this after class.” Everyone agreed.

Back at the entrance, the pail, wheelchair bound boy was having trouble getting up the steps to enter the school. “Useless stumps! Why do I have these if I can’t use them?!” He shouted to himself, slapping his hand to his face thinking how he could get inside.

Flash Sentry was running late, when he saw the boy in the wheelchair trying to get into the school and stopped. “Oh hey, first day?” He asked.

The boy turned and looked at Flash. “You could say that?” He said.
“Yeah, I don’t think you're getting in that way. You should use disabled entrance.” Said Flash

“Can you show me?” The boy asked.

“Yeah, no problem.” Flash showed the boy to the disabled entrance. “Here we are.” After they get inside, the boy thanked Flash. “Your welcome.” Flash replied. “So do you know where you're going?” He asked.

“Well It’s not really to where, more like who.” Said the Boy. “I am looking for a girl named Sunset Shimmer. Do you know where she is?” He asked

Flash gave him an odd look. “If he’s looking for Sunset then I should warn her about him. I mean he doesn't look dangerous but you don't judge a book by its cover.” He thought to himself. “Ummm no, I don’t, but if I see her I’ll let her know you're looking for her. He said out loud, rubbing the back of his head. Flash then said goodbye to the boy and ran off to class, and the boy in the chair began his search for Sunset.

Throughout the day, Sunset and her friends went from class to class, almost forgetting the event’s from the previous day. After the lunch bell rang, Sunset was on her way to the cafeteria. On her way, as she passed the music room, she overheard Vinyl Scratch and Octavia arguing about something, but it had nothing to do with her, so she continued to walk.

Cosmo appeared beside her, looking puzzled. “Sunset, a question. Why are they fighting?” She asked.

“I have no idea, but it’s got nothing to do with us and they always do this.” Sunset replied. “Even close friends argue from time to time. They will argue about something and then they'll kiss and make up. Not literally of course.”

But before she could go any further, she heard Octavia scream. Sunset turned and ran to see what was going on, and saw Vinyl Scratch trying to strangle Octavia. Octavia was struggling frantically, trying to loosen Vinyl’s grip. “Pl...pl..pl..ease st..op...Vinyl!” she gasped.

“I’m done with your high and mighty ‘tude Tavi!” Vinyl Snarled. “You always saying I was too loud and messy and don’t get me started with..” Vinyl noticed Sunset standing in the doorway. “This has nothing to do with you so leave if you know what's good for ya!” She said in a threatening tone.

“Sunset, look, she possesses a Number.” Cosmo informed Sunset. Sunset looked and saw a Number 51 on the back of Vinyl’s hand.

“Put her down now Vinyl!” Sunset demanded

“Why should I? This has nothing to do with…” Then Vinyl heard a demonic voice in her head. “TAKE HER KEY! TAKE HER NUMBERS!” The voice ordered. “Ok.” Vinyl said. “Let’s have some fun.” She dropped Octavia to the ground and walked over to her bag.

Octavia gasped and coughed as Sunset ran over to her and crouched down beside her. “Are you alright?” She asked. Octavia was wheezing and grasping at her throat “I... think... so.” She muttered between gasps.

Just then, Solar Force was walking by the open door and caught a glimpse of what was happening. He stopped and asked “Whoa, is she ok?” He asked.

Vinyl turned and looked at Solar. “Yeah she’ll be fine now leave!” She said.

Sunset helped Octavia to her feet and lead her over to Solar, put her arm around his shoulders. “Take Octavia to Nurse Redheart.” She said. Solar Force didn’t question her, and he carefully lead Octavia away.
Sunset looked then looked back at Vinyl. “Now for you.” She said with a determined look. “I challenge you to a Duel!” Vinyl, already wearing her Duel Pad and Duel Gazer, gave an evil smirk. “Bring it on, bacon hair.” She said with a chuckle.

Meanwhile, in the Principal's Office, Vice-Principal Luna was going through some paperwork. “Alright, just a few more then we’re all up to date with everything.” She said with much joy. “Then maybe I can treat myself to a little…” Just as she was opening the draw on her desk, Solar Force burst through the door shouting. “Aunt Luna, we got a problem!”

Luna looked at Solar with shook. “Not now!” She said “Wait, are you hitting your secret stash?” Solar questioned. “What no! I was... hold on, did you just say we have a problem?” She questioned back.

“Oh, right. Vinyl Scratch almost snapped Octavia’s neck! I’m not kidding!” Informed Solar Force.

Luna and Solar ran to the music room. The scene that met them left them stunned. Sunset had just defeated Vinyl and the music room was in ruins. For a long moment, Luna was speechless. “What happened?” She finally asked.

Sunset looked at her sheepishly. “It’s complicated.” She said. Luna put her hand to her forehead. “Don’t tell me, it’s a magic scenario.” She said with a deadpan look.

In the Principal’s office, Sunset was sitting in front of Principal Celestia. “So explain to me how Vinyl Scratch, who failed gym, is strong enough to break Octavia’s neck with one hand?” Questioned Celestia.

Sunset looked at Celestia and took a deep breath. “Alright.” She said. “It’s not going to be easy to explain, buts it’s got something to do with these cards.” Sunset then showed the 3 Number Cards she had collected to Celestia. Celestia looked puzzled. “So magic right?” She asked.

“Umm, yes.” Said Sunset with a smile but Celestia was not amused. “Sunset, I am going to tell you something.” She said with a stern look.

“Is something wrong?” Asked Sunset. “I mean besides the whole thing with these card’s...” Celestia put up her hand to cut Sunset off. “I am sorry Sunset. I didn't want to do this, but you have given my no choice. I’ll have to confiscate your deck and your geode.” Celestia opened her hand to take the objects.

“What!? Why!?” Sunset asked in shock.

“Because, me and Luna were hoping for a normal year at CHS this year, without magic, but magic is once again running loose and I’m guessing it’s got something to do with you and your friend’s?” Said Celestia, her frown deepening.
“Yes...umm, I mean no!” Sunset stuttered. Celestia then stood up and fixed Sunset with a stern look. “Do you know what my sister is doing right now?” She asked. Sunset shook her head. “She is on the phone to Octavia’s parents, trying to explain why their daughter is in the hospital. We have been doing our best to cover for you and your friends for too long and I can’t put the student body in any more danger. Now…” She raised her open hand. “Hand over your deck and geode.”

Sunset, in panic, raised both of her hands. “Wait a moment, please, let me explain?!” She almost begged. She then held up one of the Number cards. “You see this one, Number 52 Diamond Queen Adamant.” She continued. “This card was Rarity's. She went crazy with it and it gave her the power to make clothes come to life, and it along with the others are dangerous. They make the damage they inflict in a Duel real. That’s how this happened.” Sunset lifted up her shirt and showed Celestia the bandages above her hip. “I didn't know any of them were in the school. If I did, I would have put a stop to it before it began.” She pleaded

Celestia raised her hand and gestured to try and calm Sunset down. “Alright Sunset, just calm down and tell me everything you know about this situation.” She said calmly.

Sunset took a deep breath. “Alright, I’ll tell you everything.” She said. Sunset then proceeded to tell Celestia about how it all started, from her vision of the demon door, the first Number and the event’s of today, but she did not tell her about Cosmo.

Once Sunset had finished, Celestia gave her a serious look. “Alright, now that I know what’s going on, I must ask you to not involve Solar force.” She Stated. “Me and Luna don’t want him getting harmed, so just keep him out of this.”

“Umm, yeah, I think it’s too late for that.” Said Sunset, rubbing the back of her head.

“What do you mean?” Celestia asked, with a raised eyebrow.

“He was there when Rarity got her Number card.” Sunset explained. “But I didn't know he was following me that day. Actually, If he wasn't there, I would not have been able to duel Rarity.”

“Hmmm, in that case, I will be informing Solar Force not to interact with you and your friend’s.”
Said Celestia.

“But why? It’s not….” Before Sunset could finish her sentence, Celestia raised her hand to silence her.” That is none of your concern.” She said. “Me and Luna would just feel better if he kept his distance from you and your friend’s.”

“Alright, I understand Principal Celestia.” said Sunset reluctantly.

“Now, I think you should you go home for the rest of the day and we will see you Monday morning.” Said Celestia, as she stood up and showed Sunset out of her office.

Sunset left Principal Celestia’s office and saw Solar Force in the hallway. "Hey, how did it go?” He asked. Sunset looked at Solar. “Yeah, could have gone better.” She sighed.

Walking with Solar, she told him what happened in Principal Celestia’s office. “I see. I’ll try to talk to her about it. Don’t worry.” said Solar.

At that moment, Flash Sentry spotted Sunset. “Hey, Sunset!” He called out to her and ran to see her. “What’s wrong Flash?” asked Sunset. “Well today, I helped this kid in a wheelchair get into the school and when I asked him where he was going, he said he was looking for you.” Explained Flash “Hmm, do you think he’s dangerous?” Asked Sunset “I don’t know, but you can’t be too safe.” Said Flash.

“Well, I don’t think we have anything to worry about. The guy is in a Wheelchair. He might be here for something else.” Implied Solar Force.

“Well whatever the reason is, I think Solar Force is right on this, but thanks for caring Flash.” Said Sunset.

“Yeah, it’s what I do. Later Sunset.” Said Flash. He then walked away from Sunset and Solar Force.

Just then, from a distance, a female voice called Sunset’s name. Sunset looked in the direction of the voice and her eyes widened. The girl running towards her was her old friend Starlight Glimmer. “Starlight?! Said Sunset as she was waved. Starlight walked up to Sunset and hugged her. “It’s great to see you again Sunset.” She said with glee.

“Friend of yours?” Asked Solar Force. “Yeah, this is Starlight.” Introduced Sunset. “Starlight, this is Solar Force.”

“Nice to meet you Starlight.” Said Solar Force.” Nice to meet you too.” Replied Starlight.

“Well, like the old saying goes, two's company, three's a crowd.” Said Solar Force. “I’ll see you tomorrow, bye Sunset.”

“See you, Solar.” Said Sunset. “So what brings you back here, Starlight?” She asked.

“I wish I was here under better circumstances Sunset, but I need to talk to you about something really important.” Said Starlight with a serious expression on her face. “How about we talk back at you place.”

The two girls left the school and made their way to Sunset’s apartment. “I told the others what’s going on. Did something happen in Equestria?” Sunset asked. Before Starlight could answer, a male voice shouted. “I finally found you Sunset Shimmer!”

Both girls looked and saw a pale boy in a wheelchair rolling towards them. “So this must be the guy Flash warned me about.” Sunset thought to herself.

“Do you know what I have been through today just to find you?” He ranted. “I had trouble the second I got here! These stupid stumps don’t work like your’s do and I could not get into the school! But you know what? I managed to find out where you live. This gray skinned girl with blond hair told me after I paid her.”

“Gray skin and bond hair? Do you mean Derpy?” Asked Sunset.

“Oh, that was Derpy? I thought she looked familiar.” The boy said to himself.

“Wait a minute, that voice, the way he speaks. Is that you Mad Page?” Asked Starlight.
“And you are?” The boy known as Mad Page asked back.
“It’s me, Starlight. From Equestria.” She told him.
“Oh, I didn't recognise you, without the horn or the hooves and the tail…” Mad page was interrupted by both Starlight and Sunset. “We Get It!” They shouted.

“Well you don’t have to shout at me.” Said Mad Page.

“Anyway, why are you here?” Asked Starlight.

“And you said you paid Derpy? How much did you give her?” Asked Sunset.

Before he could answer, a truck filled with muffins drove up and stopped for a moment. The muffins can be seen over filling the truck beyond capacity, and Derpy’s head popped out of the muffin cluster, with a muffin in her mouth. She sees the three and waved at them and the three of them waved awkwardly back to her.

“Does that answer your question?” Mad Page asked Sunset. “You way over paid her. What did you give her?” Asked Sunset again. “You know, a handful of diamonds, no more no less.” He replied. In an instant, Sunset jump to Mad Page’s side. “Hello new best friend.” She said, gripping his arm.

“Oh no, you don’t!” Starlight said as she pulled Sunset away from Mad Page. “Trust me, he’s more than a handful.” She assured her. “Ok now, can please tell me why you're here?” She asked Mad Page in a tired tone.

“I came for her.” Said Mad Page, pointing at Sunset.
“Me, why?” Asked Sunset, a little worried.

“So you came here for the same reason I did?” Asked Starlight.

“Of course, why else would I come to a magicless world with these useless stumps?” Mad Page said sarcastically.

“Alright, let’s get inside and you tell what this is all about.” Said Sunset. She led her two guests into her home.

Meanwhile, back at the School, Principal Celestia was sitting in her office, dreading the conversation she must have with her sister. Just then, Vice-Principal Luna walked in to her office. “How did it go with miss Melody’s parents?” Celesita asked.

“They were not happy.” Luna replied, a sour look on her face. “And it was hard to tell them what happened when you don’t have all the details.” Luna sat down in the chair in front of her sisters desk and looked at her sister. “By the way, what did you learn from Miss Shimmer?” She asked.

Celestia took a deep breath and sighed. “You are not going to like this.” She replied heavily.

Luna looked at Celestia and already know what her sister was going to say. She stood up and fixed her with a desperate look. “Oh, no, no, don’t tell me.” She said pleadingly.

“It’s magic.” Celestia continued reluctantly.

“Noooooo.” Luna sat back down heavily and groaned. “One year. That’s all we are asking for, just one normal year.” She moaned.

“I do know how you are feeling Luna.” Said Celestia soothingly. “To be honest, I miss the simple old days of the school year.” Celestia reminisced. “You know, back in those days the most dangerous thing we ever dealt with was high school drama. Ah, I miss those days.”

“I do as well.” Luna stood up, walked around the desk and put her hand on Celestia’s shoulder. “So do we know what caused this?” She asked. “Sunset had something to do with it on new year’s.” Celestia said casually.

“I should've known it had something to do with her.” Luna said with distress.
“Come now Luna.” Celestia said with a calming tone.

“No sister, you come now. Ever since that girl came to our school, It’s been one thing after the other. First the Fall Formal and then the Battle of the Bands, the Friendship Games, and then Camp Everfree, and now this. When will it end?” Luna said with anxiety.
“I do not have the answer but..” Just then, Celestia’s phone started to ring. She quickly answered it. “Hello...yes..wait, what? No she didn’t. What’s that? Alright, I’ll come down and sort this out. Alright, goodbye.”

“What’s wong?” Luna asked.

“Something’s gone wrong, I have to go, can I leave you in charge until I get back?” Celestia asked Luna. “I’ll take care of everything while your gone.” Luna reassured Celestia.

The two sisters left the School. Celestia got into her car and drove out of town to take care of some business. Luna was left to take care of the school and watch over Solar Force.

Back with Sunset and her two guests, they were gathered on Sunset’s Sofa. “Alright, so you guys came here to get me?” Sunset asked.

“Yes.” Said Starlight. “I can’t explain it, but Mad Page can.”

Sunset looked at Mad Page. “But first, are you going to introduce us?” He asked. “To who?” Asked Sunset, confused.

Mad Page pointed up to the ceiling. “The blue, glowing girl floating up there?” He said.

Starlight looked puzzled.

Sunset and Cosmo gaped at the wheel-chair bound boy. “You can see her/me?” They said in unison.

“You would be surprised what my Ruby and Sapphire eyes can see.” Mad Page said, referring to his mismatched eyes. “If I had a third eye it would be Garnet.”

“How can you see me?” Asked an intrigued Cosmo.

“I’m what the youngsters call clairvoyant.” Said Mad Page.

Sunset jumped up with excitement. “He can see her too! I’m not crazy! Hahahahaha!” She laughed.

“Well in any case,” Said Starlight. “We need to get back to Equestria. The Princesses need to talk to you.”

“The Princesses want to talk to me? Why?” Asked Sunset.

“I think it’s best that we talk more about this tomorrow.” Mad Page chimed in.

“Yeah, Mad Page is right. We’ll go back to Equestria tomorrow and we’ll explain everything then.” Said Starlight

Sunset checked the time and saw that it was starting to get late. “Yeah, you guys are right. There's not much room, but I think I can set you two up for up for the night.

The next day, Sunset, Mad Page and Starlight were standing by the statue in front of the school, along with Twilight Sparkle. “Ok, so you're going back to Equestria?” Asked Twilight. “And you want me to tell Principal Celestia that you'll be gone for a few days?”

“Yeah, if you don’t mind?” Said Sunset.

“Oh no, I don’t mind, but what if a Number card appears while your gone?” Twilight asked, worried about the school.

“Don’t worry, I won’t be gone too long.” Sunset reassured Twilight.

Sunset then walked up to the portal, waved goodbye to her friend, and stepped through. Mad Page and Starlight soon followed her.

Once they were gone, Twilight entered the school, and made her way to the Principal’s office. She knocked on the door and then entered. “Um, Principal Celestia, can I talk to you for a minute?” Twilight looked and saw Vice-Principal Luna sitting in the Principal’s chair.

“Yes, can I help you Miss Sparkle?” Asked Vice-Principal Luna

“Where is Principal Celestia?” Asked Twilight.

“My sister is away on business and she left me in charge until she returns.” Said Vice-Principal Luna.

“Oh, right. Well, I’m just here to inform you that Sunset is away back through the portal and she won’t be back for a few days.” Said Twilight

“So she went back to her world?” Asked Vice-Principal Luna, with slightly narrowed eyes.

“Umm yes.” Twilight said nervously.

“Alright, thank you for telling me Miss Sparkle.” Said Vice-Principal Luna, her voice sounding tense. She stood up and walked Twilight out of the office. “And I will inform her teachers about her absence.” She said. Then she shut the door behind Twilight. After she was left alone, Luna started to grind her teeth. “Magic, magic, IT’S ALWAYS MAGIC!!!” She shouted to herself. “WHY, SOMEONE JUST TELL ME WHY?!!” Luna then took a deep breath. “Calm down Luna, you can’t afford to let yourself lose control.” She said to herself.

Luna then walked back to her desk and sat down to do some paperwork. Just as she was about to get started, the stack fell off her desk and the papers went all over the floor. “Oh, COME ON!” She groaned. “Really? Is this REALLY how I’m starting the day!? What else can go wrong?” Luna then got down on her knees, and began to pick up the fallen pieces of paper.

From the corner of her eye, she saw something under the desk. “Hmm, what is that?” She then reach for it and picked it up. It was a Duel Monsters card. “A card? It must be tia’s.” She flipped it over to see the other side, but to her surprise, it was blank. Then suddenly a dark formed around her body. “What is happening?” She said in fear, before she clutched her head in pain, and she could hear a demonic voice in her head. “Yes, Luna, let the Number take hold! Take back your school and take back control!”

Luna slowly stood back on her feet, and when she opened her eyes, a Number 11 was glowing from her right eye. “This is my school and I’m taking it back.” She said with narrowed eyes. Luna walked to the window and saw Fluttershy with her animals. “Starting with you.” She said sinisterly.

Later, in the music room, the other girls were discussing about Sunset. “So you're telling us she’s gone back to Equestria?” Asked Applejack.

“And you don’t know why she went or when she’ll be back?” Asked Rainbow Dash.

“That’s all she told me.” Twilight replied.

Then the bell rang to signal that the school the day had started.

“How about we talk about this after school.” Said Rarity. Everyone agreed and the girl’s made there way to their classes

Meanwhile, in Equestria, Sunset had just emerged from the portal, and was once again getting used to her old pony body. She felt a feeling of nostalgia being back in her old world. “Being on all fours again feels both strange and nostalgic.” She said, looking at her hooves.

Starlight, also back in her pony form trotted up to Sunset. “Welcome home, Sunset.” She said with a welcoming tone.

“Thanks.” Smiled Sunset. “Oh, by the way. What did Mad Page mean by calling his legs useless-” She was abruptly interrupted by Mad Page shouting, “I'M BACK PONIES!” as a demonic looking book floated above them.

“WHAT IS THAT THING!?” Sunset screamed.

“Calm down, that’s just Mad Page. This is his true form.” Explained Starlight.

“Did we not tell you?” Casually asked Mad Page with his twisted smile.

“Well no, neither of you two told me that Mad Page happens to be a talking book.” Sunset said, taking a deep breath. “Anyway, since that’s cleared up, how about we go see Twilight and the other Princesses?”

“You got it.” Said Starlight.

As they made their way out of Princess Twilight's castle, Cosmo appeared next to Sunset. “So this is the world of your origin.” She said curiously. “How does it feel being back in your original home?” She asked Sunset. “Nostalgic, mostly.” Sunset replied.

“Hmm, it must feel nice coming home.” Said Cosmo, looking a little sad. “I cannot even remember what my home looked like.”

“Fear not, little blue bird.” Said Mad Page, with that crazy look in his eye. “I am positive that Sunset and her friends will help you return to your home.”

“Thank you, Mad Page.” Said Cosmo in a grateful tone.

Continuing on their way to see the Princesses, Mad Page decided to open a portal straight to Canterlot Castle. “Alright, just step on in and we’ll be there in no time.” He said, still smiling.

Cosmo was curious. “Tell me, how can you smile for so long? Does it not must hurt?” She asked.

“Not really.” Sad Mad Page. Then with a paper folded hand, he peeled off his mouth. “You’ll be surprised at what I can do.” He said, and He put his mouth back on his cover. still smiling.

Cosmo looked amused at Mad Page’s bizarrishness. “Curiouser and Curiouser.” She said in wonder.

After stepping through the portal, they arrived at Canterlot Castle. “It feels like a lifetime since I was last here.” Said Sunset.

“Alright, I think Twilight has waited long enough.” Said Starlight. Then the trio started to make their way to the see the Princesses.

Back in the human would, the day had just ended. The girls were just about to head home.
“You know, maybe we should look into this whole Number card thing.” Said Rainbow Dash.

“Ohh, we could be a super duper Number investigation squad. I call the cool guy!” Said Pinkie Pie as she put on a pair of sunshades.

“Sunset did say she would try to explain everything when she gets back.” Chimed in Twilight.

At that moment, the school PA system chimed, and they heard the voice of Vice-Principal Luna. “Would Miss Fluttershy please report to the Principal’s office immediately. Repeat, Immediately.”

Fluttershy’s eyes went wide with shock. “M-me?” She stuttered. “Why me? I haven’t done anything.”

“I’m sure it’s nothing to be worried about.” Said Rainbow Dash.

“I hope not.” Said Fluttershy nervously, as she made her way to see Vice-Principal Luna. Once she got there, she knocked on the door. “Come in.” She heard from inside. Fluttershy slowly opened the door and stepped inside the office. “You wanted to see me Vice-Principal Luna?” She asked.

“Ah, Futtershy, take a seat, I have something very important I need to talk to you about.” Said Vice-Principal Luna in a sinister tone. “Now I know you like your animal's..”

“Oh yes, I love my animal friends.” Fluttershy said as she sat down in front of the Principal's desk.

“But me and my sister have told you time and time again, that you are not allowed to bring them into school.” Finished Vice-Principal Luna.

“Umm...I’m sorry.” Mumbled Fluttershy.

“That is the thing, you're always sorry but you don’t stop, your like an untrained dog. You never follow simple commands. You just keep going and going.” Vice-Principal Luna stood up and walked towards Fluttershy. “Now look at me, right in the eye.” Vice-Principal Luna leaned over Fluttershy, Making direct eye contact. “Repeat after me. You are going to follow the school rules…”

Fluttershy stared, transfixed, into Vice-Principal Luna’s eyes, and her own eyes became empty, devoid of all free will. “I will follow the school rules.” She repeated in a flat, monotone voice.

“Good.” Said Luna as she stood up straight again, a satisfied smirk on her face. “Now, I want you to go to detention, and write ‘If I Don't Obey The School Rules I Am Worthless’ 1000 times.”

“Yes, Vice-Principal Luna.” Said Fluttershy in obedience.

“And if you do not complete the assigned task, you will have to wipe the board clean and write the passage another 1000 times.”

“Yes, Vice Principal Luna.”

“Good, but first things first, get rid of those animals.” Luna Ordered.

“Yes Vice-Principal Luna.” Fluttershy stood up and walked out of the Principal’s office as if in a trance. Once Fluttershy was gone, Luna Smirked. “One down.” She said, as she started to laugh to herself.

Back in Equestria ,Sunset and the others were about to see the Princesses. The doors open to a large meeting room. The first one to notice them was Twilight. “Sunset, I have been trying to contact you with the journal, but it’s not working.” She said.

“I might have an idea about that.” Said a familiar voice. Sunset instantly recognized the voice. “Wait a second, is that...?” She stated to ask.

“SOLAR!” Shouted Mad Page with excitement.

Sunset looked, and saw an Alicorn Stallion with the same colour fur, same eyes, and same colour mane as the Solar Force she knew. Her jaw dropped to the ground.

The new Solar Force then walked up to her and shut her mouth with his hoof. “You’ll catch flies that way.” He said with a chuckle.

Sunset took a second to collect herself. “What were the odds?” She said to herself. Cosmo looked at Sunset. “Do you want to know?” She asked. Sunset just rolled her eyes.

Not too long after, the other Princesses entered the room, and Sunset walk up to greet her old mentor.

“Hello Sunset Shimmer.” Said Princess Celestia with a warm smile. “It’s been too long since your last visit.”

“Far too long, Princess Celestia.” Replied Sunset.

“Alright.” Said Mad Page. “Is everypony here?”

“It appears so,” Said Princess Luna.

“They all gathered around the large table in the middle of the room. “So what is this all about? What's going on?” Asked Sunset.

“Not too long ago, we all felt a disturbance.” Explained Princess Celestia.

“Any creature with a high sense of magic could feel it.” Continued Prince Solar Force.

“And thanks to me and Twilight and her friend’s we found out where it came from.” Said Mad Page.

“Which is what led us to your would.” Said Starlight.

All eyes were now on Sunset. It took a moment, then like a spark, she knew what it they were referring too. “I have an idea but it’s hard to explain.” She replied nervously.

“I got an idea.” Said Mad Page. He then pulled out a glass ball. “BEHOLD THE ALL SEEING ORB!” Said Mad Page in a flamboyant tone. “Did you get that from Trixie?” Asked Solar Force. “Rain on my parade, why don’t you?!” Said Mad Page, annoyed, “Anyway, with this ball we can see the events of the past.” He then used a paper hand to place the ball in front of Sunset.
“Now Sunset, take us back to the beginning.” He said cheerfully.

Sunset just stared at the glass ball in utter confusion. “And, how do I do that?” She asked awkwardly.

“Oh sorry.” Sad Map Page. “Hang on.” He pulled out what looked like a TV remote. “Use this.” He said, passing the control to Sunset.

Sunset took the remote with her magic. “Hmm.” She said with a raised eyebrow. “Convenient.” She pressed the play button and the orb began to glow as the room around them vanished.

They were now all standing in what looked like a marketplace. Only this market was full of strange bipedal creatures instead of ponies.

“Hmm, a market?” Asked Princess Luna. “And what are these creatures. I have never anything like them.

“Is that you, Sunset?” Asked Princess Celestia. “You look strange.”

“Not as strange as us.” said Solar Force, seeing their counterparts

“This is the other world that I live in.” Said Sunset. “When I’m there, I take the form of something called a human. And because It’s an alternate world, almost everyone in this world has a counterpart there.

“Almost everyone?” Asked Mad Page. “You mean there could be another me there? Have you ever met me?” He said excitedly.

“Er, actually, this is the first time meeting a Mad Page.” Replied Sunset, “I’ve never met the other you. I don’t even know if there is another you.”

Mad Page raised an eyebrow. “Really?” He said curiously. “That is peculiar.”

“Apologies, but may we please move on to the point of this meeting?” Said Princess Luna.

“Your wish is my command.” Said Mad Page, as then grab up the remote control. “Let’s just skip ahead to the good bits.” He then skipped to the part when Sunset was face to face with the door.

“This is how it all started.” Said Sunset with a shudder. She remember this day all too well.
They all watched as the event of when Sunset opened the door played out before them, right up to the point where she first saw Cosmo.

“So that's where you came from blue bird?” Asked Mad Page.
“Did I forget how I got to her world?” Cosmo asked herself.
“And that is how this whole thing with the Number cards started.” Said Sunset

“Hmm, that thing had Mad Page’s mark on its face.” Said Starlight.

“That means the Mad Page of that world may be coming for you.” said Princess Celestia.

“Whoa, wait?!” Said Sunset in shock. “Your saying that the Mad Page from my world might be coming for the Numbers and my key?!”

“It would seem so.” Said Cosmo.

“Well I can’t for vouch the other me, but I can assure you that I will not be coming after you.” Sad Mad Page. “You’ve got nothing I could want anyway.”

“Er, thanks, I guess.” Said Sunset. Solar Force then leaned over and whispered in Sunset’s ear. “Fair warning. Mad Page doesn’t really do subtle or reassuring.” Sunset rolled her eyes. “Oh gee, I hadn’t noticed.” She said sarcastically.

By now, the Sun was already getting close to the horizon. “It is getting late now.” Said Princess Celestia. “Yes,” Agreed Princess Luna. “It is time for us to perform our duty. We will resume this tomorrow.” With that, the Royal Sisters left the Throne Room.

Once they had gone, Princess Twilight came up to Sunset. “So that charm around your neck is some kind of Key?” She asked. “Yeah,” Replied Sunset. “Not just to that door you saw, but also to some kind of great power. But that’s not what concerns me about it.”

“What do you mean?” Asked Twilight.

“I mean,” Continued Sunset. “Is that because of this key, and because I opened that door, I put my friends in danger. Again! I mean, the very first victim of a Number card was Rarity!”

“Maybe that was the price.” Said Mad Page. He then looked around to see that all eyes were now on him. “Was it something I said.”

“What do you mean ‘maybe that was the price’, Mad Page?” Asked Princess Cadence, who had been mostly quiet until now.

“Well the door did say there was a price to pay for opening it.” Continued Mad Page. “But it never specifically stated what that price was. It was very vague on that point. And as the law of magic clearly states, there's always a price to pay.”

“Okay, I doubt that putting Sunset’s friends in danger was the price.” Said Solar Force.

“But he does raise an excellent point.” Said Twilight.

“I really hope that isn’t the case.” Said Sunset.

During the discussion, Cosmo was deep in thought. “Did Sunset pay a price for me to come to her world? And if so, did I also pay a price as well? Could that price have been… my memories? Or was It perhaps for Sunset to be my host? It seems the more answers I find, the more questions arise.”

Upon invitation from Solar Force, Sunset agreed to spend the night at the Castle before heading home. The next day, Sunset headed back to Ponyville, before saying her last goodbye to Princess Twilight, Starlight, Solar Force, and Mad Page. “I’ll do some research to try and find out about this Door your saw.” Said Twilight. “Thanks, Twilight.” Said Sunset. “Write to me the moment you find out anything.” And she gave her friend a hug.

Sunset then turned toward the Mirror, and with a last wave, stepped through the Portal. Once she emerged on the other side, she gave herself a quick shake to regain her senses. “Ah, good to be…” She stopped mid sentence as she looked up at the School, and her eyes widened in shock. “Back?!” The appearance of Canterlot High had dramatically changed. The windows were covered by metal Bars. Barbed wire and metal spikes ran all along the edges of the roof and walls. Security cameras lined every wall.

It looked more like a prison than a School.

Then she heard a voice from behind her. “Sunset?!” She looked round to see Solar Force running toward her. He ran up to her and asked frantically, “Where have you been? The School is a prison now. LITERALLY!”

“What happened to the school? I was only gone for a day. How could all this have happened in one day?” Asked Sunset.

At that moment, Mad Page popped out of the portal. “Hey Sunshine, I forgot to give you something.” He then noticed Solar Force standing there. “Hi, Buddy.” He said cheerfully.

“W-where did you come from?” Solar Force asked the boy in the wheelchair.

“Well a wise book once said, somethings are best explained through actions rather than words.”
He then grabbed Solar by hand and pulled him into the portal. A few seconds later, Solar came tumbling back out, his face was pale, his eyes were pinpricks, he was breathing heavily, and he was shaking all over. “WHAT…HOW ...WHY?!” He shouted. He looked at his hand and said to his fingers, “I’ll never take you for granted ever again!”

Sunset turned to look at Mad Page. “What is wrong with you?!” She shouted angrily.

“How long have you got?” Replied Mad Page nonchalantly. “By the way, use this if you need to talk to me.” Mad Page then passed a little glass ball to Sunset. “Also he needs ice cream.” He finished saying. Mad Page then rolled his chair back into the portal and disappeared.

Once Map Page was gone, Sunset frowned. “Who wrote that crazy book?” She said to herself. She then walked over to Solar and helped him to his feet. “Come on buddy, how about we go to Sugarcube Corner? My treat?” She said.

As they walked away, Solar Force began to mutter. “I had hooves.”

“Try not to think about it.” Said Sunset gently.

A little later, Sunset and Solar were sitting in a booth at Sugarcube Corner. Sunset was drinking a milkshake, but Solar had a big bowl of ice cream, which he had not yet touched. He was too busy staring at his own fingers. “Where did you go?” He whispered, like they would actually answer him.

Sunset was starting to get annoyed. “Alright, can you stop that? You're creeping me out. And don’t you dare sit there and let all that ice cream go to waste. That cost me 10 bucks and I expect to see you eat it.” She said sternly. Then she took a deep breath. “Look,” She continued. “I know you have a lot of questions. And I would like to answer those questions. But I know you’ve also had a bit of a shock. You need to get over that shock fist. So please, eat the ice cream.”

At last, Solar looked up at Sunset. “So I guess all those rumours I heard about you were all true.” He said. “The whole thing about magic, you becoming a She-Demon, The Battle of the Bands, The Friendship Games, Camp Everfree, even that girl who used that ‘Memory Stone’ thing?”

Sunset winced, and then sighed heavily. “Whatever you heard, It’s probably all true.” She admitted.

“Like what they say about you being from another world filled with horses?” He asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Ponies.” Corrected Sunset.

“And your unicorn?” Solar asked again.

“Yep.” Said Sunset.

“Oh, my god. Everything I heard about was true.” Solar said as processed what he had learned.

“Oh by the way.” Said Sunset. “The goddess of my world is your aunt.”

“What? Which one?” He asked.

“Both of them.” Replied Sunset.

“Are you kidding me? Asked Solar.

“I wish.” Replied Sunset.

“Nice.” Said Solar with a smug smile. That smile quickly faded. “Well moving on, we need to talk about the school.” He said seriously.

“Yeah, what happened to that place while I was gone?” Asked Sunset

“Long story short, aunt Luna’s gone crazy. She’s turned the whole school into a madhouse. Everyone who goes into her office comes out with this blank look on their face and talking about the school rules. It’s like there zombies, it’s creepy.” Solar explained. “And on top of that, they spend hours in detention, writing about how if they don’t follow the school rules they’re worthless.” He concluded.

“What?” Said a stunned Sunset. “Seriously?” A worried frown crossed her face. “Oh man, I hope the girls are okay.” She said.

“Uh, yeah.” Said Solar, scratching the back of his head uneasily. “About that.”

“What? What happened?” Asked Sunset anxiously.

“The first student to go into aunt Luna’s office was...Fluttershy.” Solar said reluctantly.

“What?!” Sunset cried. She could hardly believe it. “Fluttershy?! Why?!”

“I don’t know.” Said Solar. “All I know is, she got called to the principal’s office yesterday and when she came out she was like a zombie. She went straight to detention and she started writing about how if she didn’t follow the school rules she was worthless over and over again. In fact, she's still there now. Still writing. She never stops.”

“What about Principal Celestia? Where has she been during all this? How could she let this happen?” Asked Sunset frantically.

“She's out of reach.” Said Solar. “She got called out of town on business, I don’t know when she’ll be back.”

“Well, in that case.” Said Sunset. “We are going to have to handle this ourselves. Tomorrow, we are going to put an end to this insanity.”

With that, Sunset and Solar both finished their treats and made their way home.

Back at Sunset’s apartment, Sunset had just finished explaining to Cosmo everything Solar Force had told her. “From what you have described, I believe that your Vice-Principal may have been possessed by a Number card.” She said thoughtfully.

“Yeah, I would definitely say she is.” Said Sunset. “And we both know what that means.”

“You will have to Duel her.” Said Cosmo. “From what I gather, she has been a formidable Duelist for quite some time. Are you sure you can handle such an opponent.”

“I’ll just have to wait and see.” Said Sunset as she climbed into bed.

The next day, Sunset arrived bright and early at the school. As she looked around, it was like the life of the school had been sucked out. Several arriving students, with blank looks on their faces, walked listlessly toward the school entrance, not looking at or saying anything to each other. The sight gave Sunset chills. “Whoa, deja vu.” She said under her breath. But nevertheless, Sunset followed the soulless students into the school.
After she entered, Sunset saw that a lot of the students were in the same trance, but thankfully not all of them. The unhypnotized students were trying desperately to reach their friends. In one corner of the foyer, Sunset saw Bon Bon almost begging Lyra to answer her. “Come on Lyra, you can’t just live life by the rules!” She shouted.

“Without the rules, life is meaningless.” Lyra replied flatly.

“That’s stupid!” Bon Bon yelled.

In another corner, Sunset saw Snips and Snails trying to talk Trixie. “Come on Trixie.” Said Snails. “Tells us how great and powerful you are.”

“Yeah, you love doing that.” Areed Snips.

“The weak and worthless Trixie must follow the rules.” Replied the almost lifeless Trixie.

It was the same story everywhere Sunset looked. “I’ve got to find the girls.” She said, determined, and she quickly headed off.

Sunset hadn’t gone far when she saw Fluttershy walking away from her. “Fluttershy!” She said happily as she ran up to her. “I’m so glad I found you. Are you ok? What about the others?”

Fluttershy turned around. Her facial expression was empty. “Hello. Are you following the school rules? Without them, we’re worthless.” She said with a monotone voice.

“It’s hopeless Sunset.” Said a voice from behind her. Sunset turned and saw that it was Twilight. “We tried everything we could think of to snap her out of this and nothing worked.”

“Twilight, what happened to her?” Sunset asked.

“As I'm sure you’ve noticed, It’s not just her. Just about half the school is like this. I think Vice-Principal Luna has a Number card.” Said Twilight.

“Yeah.” Agreed Sunset. “Solar Force and I think so too.”

“The only thing we need to do now is figure out how are we going to see her.” Said Twilight.
“Maybe Solar could help.” Said Sunset.

“Obey the rules, for they show us the way for a good life.” A Zombie like Solar said as he passed slowly by.

“She got him too?” Said Sunset in disbelief.

“Yeah, she’s going all out.” Said Twilight.

“Alright that's it. You know what? I’m going to put an end to this right now.” Declared Sunset.

Sunset marched to the Principal’s office. Without knocking, She burst straight through the door. “Vice-Principal Luna!” She shouted.

Luna was sat behind her desk. She looked up at Sunset with a smirk. “Ahh, Sunset Shimmer. I was wondering when the problem child would return.” She replied. A Number 11 shined from her right eye.

“It seems we were correct.” Said Cosmo as she appeared next to Sunset. “She has a Number card.”

“Now Ms Shimmer, it is time to put you in your place.” Vice-Principal Luna continued as she then stood up from behind her desk.

“I’ll put you in your place. I challenge you to a Duel.” Sunset shot back.

A dark aura surrounded Vice-Principal Luna. “Very well. I accept your challenge.” She said with a dangerous smile. “But not here. I want to have everyone watching when I defeat you.” Sunset and Vice-Principal Luna left the office and walked towards the gym.

Meanwhile, not far away, Principal Celestia was just returning. “No phone calls.” She said to herself. “And no answer to any of my calls. Hmm maybe I’m worrying too much. I’m sure Luna can handle being in charge.” She drove her car into the school’s parking lot and parked in her usual space. Just as she got out, she stopped in her tracks as she got a good look at the School and saw the additions that had been made “Or maybe not.” She said with wide eyes. Celestia quickly made her way inside the school. “It’s like a prison here. And what is wrong with the students.” She thought to herself. As She continued her investigation, she looked in one of the classrooms and saw her students writing on the boards. One of them was Fluttershy, writing like her life depended on it. Celestia entered the classroom and straight up to Fluttershy. “Fluttershy, why are you writing lines?” She asked.

Still writing, Fluttershy replied. “Mistress Luna told me to.”

“And why are you here?” Celestia asked again.

“I am serving detention.” Fluttershy replied.

Then through the PA system, Vice-Principal Luna’s voice was heard, and all the students froze. “All students report to the gym immediately for a special surprise.” As if in a trance, all the students walked slowly out of the classroom and toward the gym.
Celestia had seen enough. She ran back outside to her car to get her Duel Pad. “Just in case” She thought to herself.

In the gym, everyone had gathard. “Well, here we are Shimmer.” Said Luna. “Yeah, here we are.” Repeated Sunset.

But as they readied their Duel Pads, the gym’s doors were kicked open, and Principal Celestia stormed in. “Alright, first, who in their right mind locked this door with so many people inside, that’s a fire hazard?! Second, what is going on in my school?!” She shouted angrily. Nobody took any notice. Celestia rolled her eyes and walked towards Sunset. “Number card?” She asked flatly.

“Number card.” Sunset confirmed. “I don’t know how but your sister got her hands on a Number card. It’s because of that that she can hypnotise anyone.” She explained.

“Alright Sunset.” Said Celestia. “I’ll take care of this.” She stepped toward Luna. “Luna this has gone far enough. It’s time to end this madness now.”

Luna just smiled wickedly and laughed. “No dear sister, I am putting an end to all the nonsense caused by that little bitch.” She growled, pointing an accusing finger at Sunset.

“Wait, are you saying you did all this to get at me?” Asked Sunset.

“YES!” Yelled Luna. “From the moment you first set foot in this school you have caused nothing but problems. One disaster after the other. First you turned yourself into a she demon and nearly destroyed the school. Then the Battle of the Bands with those 3 Syren girls. The only reason they came here was because you brought Equestrian magic to this world. The Friendship Games? Twilight Sparkle, an innocent girl, got too curious for her own good, got transformed into another she demon, again because of magic, and nearly destroyed the fabric of reality! Then there was that whole mess at Camp Everfree, and now this whole Number card BULLSHIT!” She ranted, in full blown rage. “The way I see it, If all this insanity began with YOU, It should end with YOU!”

Sunset scowled backed at Luna. “Ok, you know what Vice-Principal Luna?” She said. “You’re a total Hypocrite! When I became a she demon, I turned everyone in the school into my own mindless zombie army. And now your doing the exact same thing, just to get back at me for a bunch of random events that were beyond my control?”

“What I am doing is completely different!” Luna Snapped. “Where you only brought chaos, I bring order!”

Celestia had heard enough. “Luna, this has to stop. You can’t just take away the Students free will.”
Luna chuckled darkly. “Oh, my dear naive sister. They do not need free will. They are just mere Children. What they need is to listen and obey!”

At this, Celetia stepped toward her sister. “Alright Luna, I have heard enough. It’s time I took back control of my school. I shall stop you here and now!” She declared.

Luna smirked. “I must decline dear sister. Because little miss Shimmer there happened to challenge me fist. I’ll deal with you once I have had my fun and broken that rebellious spirit of hers.”

Sunset stepped up beside Celestia. “Principal Celestia? Please let me Duel your sister.” She Pleaded. “It’s obvious she desperately wants to Duel me.”

“No Sunset! She is my sister so I should be the one to stop her.” Insisted Celestia.

“Yes, I understand, but she has a Number card and Numbers can't be destroyed unless you use another Number card and I have 3 of them.” Explained Sunset. “And she’s right, it is my fault, so let me fix this please?” Sunset pleaded again.

Celestia was going to say no, but she was suddenly stunned by Sunset’s puppy dog eyes, as Pinkie Pie played soft, melancholic music on an oversized 80s style boombox. “Oh no, my one weakness.” She thought to herself. She sighed and yielded. “Alright Sunset, I will give you a chance.” She said.

“Thank you.” Said Sunset. “I promise I won’t let you or the school down.”

“Are you done?” Asked Luna impatiently, tapping her foot.

“Yeah, I’m ready to put an end to this!” Announced Sunset.

“And so am I.” Replied Luna. “To end you!”

Off to the side, Rainbow Dash turned to Applejack. “Ouchtime.” She said with a grimace.

“Yep. Brace yourselves.” Agreed Applejack.

Sunset and Luna activated their Duel-Pads and their Duel-Gazers, and everyone else activated their own Duel-Gazers. “AUGMENTED REALITY VISION LINK ESTABLISHED!” Said the computerized voice.

Luna and Sunset drew their opening hands. “DUEL!” They shouted in unison.

Luna: LP 4000 - Sunset Shimmer: LP 4000.
“I’ll take the first turn.” Insisted Luna. She drew a card. “I will activate the spell card Polymerization!” She selected two monster cards from her hand. “And now I Fusion Summon Lunalight Cat Dancer in defense mode!”

A Nekomimi dressed like a masquerade dancer appeared in front of Luna and knelt down, crossing her arms.

Lunalight Cat Dancer: ATK 2400 / DEF 2000.

“And I will end my turn with two cards face down.” Said Luna.

“It’s my turn.” Said Sunset. She drew a card and and looked at her hand.

Cosmo stared at Luna. “Why would she perform a fusion summon? And why in defense mode when its ATK points are clearly greater.”

“Don’t know. But right now I’m trying to strategize.” Said Sunset. She pulled a card from her hand. “I summon Goblindbergh!” A squadron of goblins in biplanes flew in from the sky carrying a giant container.

Goblindbergh: ATK 1400 / DEF 0

“And now I activate their effect!” Sunset continued. “I can now special summon 1 level 4 or lower monster from my hand to the field.” She pulled another card from her hand. “I now summon Gagaga Magician! The container fell from the squadron and when it hit the ground, it opened to reveal Gagaga Magician standing inside, while Goblindbergh switched to defense mode.

Gagaga Magician: ATK 1500 / DEF 1000

“And now I’ll overlay my two level 4 monsters!” Called Sunset.

Both Goblindbergh and Gagaga Magician transformed into bronze and purple light’s. They then were both absorbed into a Galaxy like portal. “And now I XYZ Summon! Emerge, Number 39: Utopia!”

Utopia emerged from the portal and flew to Sunset side.

Number 39: Utopia: ATK 2500 / 2000

“I move to my battle phase. And now Utopia, attack her Lunalight Cat Dancer!” Sunset ordered.

Utopia pulled out his sword and flew toward Lunalight Cat Dancer. But just before she could be struck down, Cat Dancer leapt up and stepped gracefully to one side, the sword missing her by inches. Utopia pulled back his sword and swung at Cat Dancer again, only for her to jump and do a backflip, missing her again. 3 more times Utopia swiped at the masked monster only for her to dance away each time. Cat Dancer then stuck out her tongue mockingly, and Utopia finally retreated back to Sunset’s side.

Sunset stared in disbelief. “What was that? Why wasn’t she destroyed?” Sunset asked in annoyance.

“Well, that was a reckless move Miss Shimmer.” Luna said mockingly. “Making a head on attack with no form of strategy? And I thought only Miss Rainbow Dash could be so foolhardy.”

“Hey!” Shouted Rainbow Dash.

Sunset groaned in annoyance. “Never mind that. Just tell how your dancer avoided my attack!” She said.

“Don’t you know?” Smirked Luna. “Lunalight Cat Dancer cannot be destroyed by battle.”

“Hence the dancing.” Said Sunset.

“So in other words, you wasted your attack.” Luna continued to mock.

“All right you’ve made your point.” Said Sunset. “Sweet Celestia, what a bitch.” She thought. “I place two cards face down and end my turn.”

Celestia frowned as she looked at her sister. “Something is off.” She thought to herself. “Luna’s not Dueling the way she usually does. Not at her best.”

“It’s finally My turn again!” Announced Luna as she drew her next card. “And I shall activate the Spell card Lunalight Fusion!” She took one card from her hand and another card from her deck. “Since you have a special summoned monster on your field, this card allows me to fusion summon using monsters from my hand or my deck. Now I fusion summon my second Lunalight Cat Dancer!”

A second masquerade dancer appeared next to the first one.

“Now she has two level Seven monsters.” Said Cosmo. “You realise what this means Sunset?”

“I sure do.” Said Sunset. “She’s going to summon her Number card.”

“Now I overlay my two level seven monsters to build the Overlay Network!” Luna announced. “The two dancers transformed into streaks of purple light and flew into a galaxy like portal. “I XYZ summon! Now appear! Number 11: Big Eye!” A giant eyeball emerged from the portal and it fabricated a cone like body and a giant ring appeared around the monster with the number 11 on it. Two balls of purple light orbited around it.

Number 11: Big Eye: ATK 2600 / DEF 2000

Sunset could only stare at the Number. And the Number stared back at her, sending a chill down her spine. “Yeesh!” She shivered. “It’s like it’s staring right into my soul.”

“And now I activate Big Eyes effect!” Luna continued. One of the yellow lights flew into Big eye’s...umm. Eye? (“I'm just going to keep writing.” Said the author) And the light was absorbed into it. Big Eye stared straight at Utopia. “Now Utopia, you will bend to my will!” Command Luna. Big Eye’s eye glowed an angry red as it’s stare intensified. Utopia put his hands on his head to try and fight the power of Big Eye. But his efforts were in vain as succumbed to the other power and he flew over to Luna’s side of the field.

Sunset was shocked. “UTOPIA?!” She shouted. Then she glared at Luna. “What have you done?!” She demanded. “Give him back!”

“No. I think I’ll just keep him from now on.” Mocked Luna. “Now my new slave, attack your former master!” She ordered. Utopia, now under Luna’s control, obeyed her command and reached for his sword.

At that moment, Sunset shouted, “I activate my trap, Damage Diet! Thanks to this, all the damage I take this turn is halved!”

Luna simply raised her eyebrow at this.
“Good thing Sunset used that card, it could've been much worse.” Cheered Rarity

“Oh Yeah, that’s our girl.” Agreed Rainbow Dash.

“Regardless your still taking damage this turn.” Declared Luna. “Now Utopia finish what you have started and strike her down!” Luna commanded.

Utopia raised his sword and slashed Sunset.

Sunset LP: 4000 - 1250 = 2750

“I’m still standing.” Said Sunset with a groan.

Cosmo floated down by Sunset. “Now brace yourself for Big Eye!” She warned.

“Oh no, I forgot about him.” Sunset said as she prepared herself for the worst.

“I end my turn.” Called Luna.

Everyone was puzzled.

“Hold on a second. Why didn't she attack? Sunset was wide open.” Asked Applejack.

“I don’t know Applejack.” replied Twilight.

Sunset was surprised.

Cosmo informed Sunset of her theory she had. “If I had to wager, I would say she cannot attack with Big Eye after she uses its effect.”

Sunset smiled. “Well if that is the case we may have a chance to win this Duel.” She said with Optimism. “It’s my turn! I Draw!” She said as she draws a card to start her turn. Sunset then looked at her hand. “First I set a monster! And now I activate the spell card, Nightmares Steel Cage!” A dome shaped cage covered in gold spikes dropped from the sky and on top of Sunset. “Now you can’t attack me for two turns!” Declared Sunset.

Luna puts her a back hand under her mouth and laughed.“You know Sunset, I always knew you would get behind bars. Just not so willing.”She mocked. “Besides, your merely postponing the inevitable.” She continued, unfazed. “It’s only a matter of time before I turn all of your monsters against you, and watch them destroy you.”

“Yeah, whatever.” Sunset retorted. “I end my turn!”

Luna drew her next card only to end her turn without making a move.

“She ended her turn with no Summon or face down? Why?” Asked Cosmo.

“I think it's because of the Number.” Replied Sunset.

“Elaborate.” Asked Cosmo.

“Not only can she control the mind’s of others but that Number is controlling her.” Explained Sunset.

“I see. It acts like a puppet master pulling the strings.” Stated Cosmo.

“So we got nothing to worry about for now.” Sunset said as she drew a card. “I’m setting a monster again and ending my turn.” Said Sunset.

Luna drew a card. “I end my turn. And that’s two. One more turn and your mine.” Smiled Luna, as the cage around Sunset disintegrated.

“It’s my turn.” Said Sunset. She draws a card. “Alright. First I flip summon my first card Gagaga Girl!” A young woman dressed as a magician rose from the card.

Gagaga Girl: ATK 1000 / DEF 800

“And I flip summon my second monster Gagaga Child!” A young kid with a popsicle rose from his card.

Gagaga Child: ATK 800 / DEF 1200

“And finally I can special summon Gagaga Caesar from my hand.” A well dressed man with a staff in his hand appeared on the field.

Gagaga Caesar: ATK 1800 / DEF 600

“Oh my.” Rarity said in a swooning voice. “I must say that’s my kind of monster.” She said with a smitten expression.

“Well if y’all like him so much, why don’t you marry him.” Teased Applejack.

“Um, girls.” Said Twilight. “I think there’s a problem here. Sunset has 2 level 3 monsters and 1 level 2 monster. What is she thinking?” She analyzed.

“Now I can activate Gagaga Child’s effect. I can change his level to match that of my other Gagaga monsters.” Sunset continued. Gagaga Child ate his popsicle fast and got a brain freeze. At the same time, his level became 3. “Now I have 3 level 3 monsters. Now I overlay all three of my level three monsters to build the overlay network!” All 3 of Sunset’s monsters transformed into streaks lights, 2 people and one brown, and flew into a galaxy like portal. “And now, I XYZ summon my new powerhouse! Number 51: Finisher The Strong Arm!”

A huge muscular figure emerged from the portal. He had red skin, thick muscular arms with red fur around his wrists, a champion fighting belt around his waist and a fighting mask with what looked like bull horns. The number 51 was tattooed on his right fist. Three brown orbs of light circled him.

Number 51: Finisher The Strong Arm: ATK 2600 / DEF 0

“Huh?” Said a confused Pinkie Pie. She reached into her hair and pulled out the script. “When did Sunset get that card?” She flipped through the script, and then looked at the screen. “Excuse me Mr Author? When did Sunset get this new Number Card?” She asked.

She got it near the beginning.

“But we didn’t even see her win it!” Pinkie argued.

It was a POV.

“What!?” Pinkie said in frustration. “Oh, come on! You skipped a whole scene just so she could conveniently be able to use it now? That’s lazy!”

Look Pinkie, I've got a whole more writing to do so you either knock it off or I’m skipping your dialogue.

Pinkie gasped. “You wouldn’t dare?!” She hissed.

You know what? This will put you in your place!

A red dot of light appeared right in the middle of Pinkie’s Baby Blues.

“Okay! Okay! Backing down now!” Said Pinkie in a panic.

Yeah! That’s what I thought. Now read your line!

Pinkie hastily opened the script. “S-she must have gotten it in an off screen Duel somewhere.” She said in a shaky voice.

“Yeah, yer probably right Pinkie.” Said Applejack. Then she blinked. “What? Off screen?”

Back at the Duel.

“Welcome to the field big guy.” Sunset welcomed her newest monster. “And now thats he’s on the field, Gagaga Girls effect activates! Since she was used for an XYZ summon, I can target 1 monster you control and reduce it’s attack points to zero, and I chose Big Eye! Go Cell Phone Subtraction!”

Gagaga Girl typed a few numbers on her phone and a wave came from it and washed over Big Eye, making it weaker.

Number 11: Big Eye: ATK 2600 - 2600 = 0

“Now go Finisher, attack Big Eye!” Commanded Sunset. Finisher clicked his knuckles and run towards Big Eye, pulling back his arm to make the punch.

“You think it will be that easy!” Shouted Luna. “I now use Utopia ability by removing one overlay unit I and negate your attack!”

“Oh, come on!” Yelled Sunset.

Utopia flew in between Big Eye and Finisher, absorbed one of his orbs of light and used his wing as a shield to block the attack.

“After Finisher battles, it’s effect activates. Now I remove one of his overlay units.'' Informed Sunset. One of the brown orbs flies into Finishers belt and one of the symbols lit up. “Finisher then gains one counter. And now that that’s done, I now activate the equip spell card Axe of Fools and I’ll equip it to Big Eye!”

A huge silver axe attached itself to Big Eye, and raised it’s attack points by 1000.

Number 11: Big Eye: ATK 0 + 1000 = 1000

“What is she thinking?” Asked Rainbow Dash.

“Now I end my turn.” Sunset said.

“My Turn!” Luna said and drew her card. Just then, Luna’s life point counter dropped by 500.

Luna LP: 4000 - 500 = 3500

“WHAT?!” She screamed. “Why did my life points go down?!”

Sunset answered Luna question. “Axe of Fools takes 500 of your life points during every one your standby phase.”

Luna rolled her eyes at Sunset. “You disappoint me Sunset. And now I will use Big Eye’s last overlay unit to take control of you last monster!” She declared. But the last orb of purple light was not absorbed by Big Eye. “What?” Said a shocked Luna. “Why is Big Eye’s effect not working? Wait?” She looked over Sunset. “What did you do?” She demanded.

Sunset smirked. “Don’t you know? I thought you were good at this game?” She said. “Any monster equipped with Axe of Fools gains 1000 attack points, but has its effects negated.”

“So you helped me just to weaken me!” Shouted Luna.

“Well, of course.” Said Sunset. “That’s the name of the game. You’ve got to play your cards and your opponent.”

“Of course.” Realized Celestia. “That's why she equipped Big Eye with Axe of Fools, so Luna can’t rely on Big Eye.” She had noticed how Luna had been relying completely on the Number card since she first summoned it.

Luna’s eye twitched as she quivered with rage. “You... little... WITCH!!” She screamed. Looking at her hand, she saw that she didn’t have a card to destroy Axe of Fools. “I set a card and end my turn.” She hissed.

“Alright, I draw!” Said Sunset as she began her turn. She looked at her hand, and then at the field. “I attack you with Big Eye!” She said. Finisher charged at Big Eye.

“I activate Utopia’s ability!” Declared Luna. Utopia absorbed his last overlay unit and stopped Finisher’s attack again.

“Well with that last battle Finisher’s ability activates again.” Replied Sunset. The second brown orb is absorbed into Finisher's belt and another symbol lights up.“Now I end my turn.” Said Sunset.

“Just before you do, I activate my face down card Call of the Haunted!” Said Luna. “And I'll use it to revive my Lunalight Cat Dancer!” Cat Dancer reappeared and did a graceful twirl before bowing.

“And she’s back.” Sunset muttered sarcastically.

“My turn!” Said Luna, drawing her card.

“Don’t forget.” Said Sunset. “Thanks to my Axe of Fools, you lose another 500 LP.”

Luna LP: 3500 - 500 = 3000.

Luna just snarled and made her next move. “Now I switch all of my monsters to defense mode!” Cat Dancer knelt down on one knee and crossed her arms in front of her, as Utopia did the same. Big Eye was also switched into defense mode.

Number 39: Utopia / DEF 2000

Number 11: Big Eye / DEF 2000

Lunalight Cat Dancer / DEF2000

“And now I end my turn.” Announced Luna.

Sunset drew a card from her deck. She looked at her hand. “I can win this!” She thought to herself. “First I place one card face down and now I will attack Big Eye!” Announced Sunset.

Finisher jump into the air to dive bomb Big Eye.

“Not so fast Shimmer!” shouted Luna. “I activate my Trap, Attack Guidance Armor! And I equip it to my Cat Dancer!” Silver armor with a demon's face on it attached itself on to Cat Dancer. The eyes on the armor glowed red, and the attack from Finisher was redirected toward Cat Dancer. The attack hit with a full body slam, but once the smoke cleared, Cat Dancer remained unharmed. Luna started to laugh like a lunatic. “No matter what you do, I won’t let you destroy Big Eye!” She said in a crazy voice.

“Yeah, I know.” Replied Sunset.

Luna looked confused. “What do you mean ‘you know’?” She asked.

“Throughout this Duel, you have not been Dueling like yourself, and it’s because of that Number.” Sunset explained. “Ever since you summoned it, you’ve been obsessed with protecting it, almost like your life depended on it. And that obsession has been holding you back, making you focus so much on one card, you’ve barely used any others. In other words, you’ve been sloppy.” She emphasised the last word. “And now I’m going to free you of that obsession! I activate Finisher’s ability one last time!” She announced.

The third and final orb was absorbed into Finisher’s belt and the last symbol lit up, and Finisher’s muscles started to pulse.

“What’s going on with Finisher?” Asked Rarity.

“I don’t know, but I bet it's going to be awesome!” Said Rainbow Dash.

“Now I can use Finisher true ability!” Announced Sunset. Finisher put his hands together and raised them above his head. “Time to wipe your slate clean! Go Finishing Impact!” Sunset shouted.

Finisher then slammed both of his fists on the ground, causing a massive shockwave, which sped across the field, destroying everything in its path, including all of Luna’s cards.

When the dust cleared, Luna was left defenseless. “Wh-what just…happened?” She asked in shock.

“I’ve emptied your field, Vice-Principal-Luna. You see, at the end of the Battle Phase, if Finisher battled and has three counters, It can destroy every card my opponent controls.” Sunset explained. “And with that, I end my turn.”

“Oh r-right, my turn.” Said Luna. She drew a card with a shaking hand. “I set one monster and I end my turn.” Luna stuttered.

Celestia was disappointed. “I know she can do so much better this. If circumstances were different, I would be trying to cheer her on.” She said, putting her hand to her forehead.

“It’s as we thought. She had no control of herself during this Duel.” Cosmo stated.

“Time to end this.” Stated Sunset. Sunset drew her last card. “First I’ll have Finisher attack your face down monster!” Finisher dashed to the face down and with a mighty punch destroyed Luna’s last defence. “And now I activate my trap Call of the Haunted to revive Utopia!” Declared Sunset. Utopia made his grand reappearance, and stood proudly at Sunset’s side once again. “And now I attack with Utopia!” Shouted Sunset.
Utopia drew his sword and charged towards Luna.

“After this attack, Luna will still have 500 life points.” Stated Twilight.

“And now I activate my last trap, Reinforcements, giving Utopia 500 attack points!”

Number 39: Utopia: ATK 2500 + 500 = 3000

“Go Rising Sun Slash!” Sunset ordered the final attack.

Utopia, now with 3000 attack points continued the attack. He flipped his sword and wacked Luna on the head, leaving a big anime style lump on her head.

Luna LP: 3000 - 3000 = 0

Winner: Sunset Shimmer

Luna collapsed to the ground, as Cosmo reached out her hand, and a small orb of light rose out of Luna’s chest and flew into Cosmo’s hand. The orb of light faded, and Cosmo was now holding Number 11: Big Eye. She closed her eyes in thought. “Now we have Four.” She thought to herself.

Once the Duel ended, all the students snapped out of their trances, looking around in confusion, and questioning everything that was going on.

“Alright Students, settle down!” Shouted Principal Celestia. “As of now, everyone can go home for the rest of the day.” She announced, and nobody argued. In fact, they were a little too enthusiastic to go home early, as they all headed for the exits.

Luna regained consciousness and sat up, her hand clasped against her head. “What is going on?” She asked, confused. “What am I doing in the gym? And wearing my Duel Pad and Gazer? The last thing I remember, I was in my Office.” She looked up to see her sister walk up to her. “Celestia, when did you get back?” She asked.

Celestia looked down at her sister with an angry look. “We need to talk.” She said sternly.

Outside the Principal’s office, the girls friends were standing outside waiting for Sunset.

“She's been in there 15 ninutes now.” Said Fluttershy worredly. “I hope she’s going to be okay.”
“I’m more worried about you darling.” Rarity said with care, placing a comforting hand on Fluttershy’s shoulder.

“Well I don’t know about you girls, but I think she is going to be just fine.” Assured Applejack.

“Let's hope so.” Agreed Twilight.

Inside the office, Celestia was very disappointed. “I can’t believe this, I just can’t.” She groaned.

“I am so ashamed of myself.” Agreed Luna mournfully.

“You spent the entire school fund fortifying the school like a prison.” Continued Celestia.

As they continued their discussion, Sunset sat in front of their desk, feeling guilty about the days events. “I am so sorry about all of this.” She said.

“It’s not your fault Sunset.” Said Celestia.

“She is right, it’s not your fault.” Said Luna. “It is mine. I found that card and I used its power to take control of all of my students.”

“And you used the schools funds.” Celestia reminded her.

“I will find a way to fix this mess. I promise.” Luna pleaded.

“Oh trust me Luna you will.” Said Celestia. “Sunset go home. You have done enough for today.” Celestia told Sunset.

“Um, okay sure, I’ll just head home.” Sunset said as she stood up. Before she left, she looked up at her Principals. “Are you guys going to be ok?”

“We’ll be fine Sunset.” Assured Luna. “We will see you tomorrow.”

Sunset left the office and met her friend outside. While they were walking, Sunset and the girls were talking about everything. As they walked to the school entrance, Fluttershy was massaging the palm of her right hand with her thumb. Rainbow Dash turned to her. “Are you ok Fluttershy.” She asked.

“It’s just that my hand is kind of sore from all those lines.” Fluttershy replied.

“Well don’t you worry about that.” Said Applejack. “I know just the thing the thing to fix up anybody’s aching bones. Old Apple Family secret.”

Once they had left the school, to their surprise, they saw Derpy walking up to the school. To their bigger surprise and confusion, Derpy was hauling a small wagon, with a big box full of muffins.

“Hi girls.” Said Derpy with a cheerful smile and a wave.

“Derpy, where are you going?” Asked Sunset.

“Going to School silly. Why?” Derpy asked with a giggle.

“Uh, hello? Didn’t you hear? School’s canceled until tomorrow.” Said Rainbow Dash with a raised eyebrow.

“Ooh, what’s with all the muffins?” Asked Pinkie Pie.

“Oh, there a sample from my new business.” Derpy replied happily.

“You own a business?” Asked Rarity.

“Yep, I used the gems that funny guy gave me.” Derpy said. “And I started my own Muffin company. I’m now the Muffin Queen!” She stated proudly.

The girls jaws all dropped as they stared at Derpy, except for Pinkie.

“Yep, he way overpaid her.” Said Sunset.

“Ooh, I have tons of ideas for new muffin recipes!” Said Pinkie with enthusiasm. And with that Pinkie and Derpy started to talk about muffin Business.

While the two baker girls chatted, everybody else decided they should leave them to it and make their way home. Sunset was especially looking forward to getting home.

As soon as Sunset entered her apartment, she collapsed onto her couch. “Aw, man, I’m exhausted.” She said wearily. “I hope it’s not going to be like this with every Number user I Duel.” She then reached into the deck box that was hanging from her hip, and pulled out her latest addition to her collection, Number 11: Big Eye. She raised it up and stared at it. “4 down, 95 to go.” She muttered, then sighed heavily.

Just then, Cosmo floated down next to Sunset. “Sunset, I have something of importance I must discuss with you.” She said with concern.

“Really? Is it about your memories? What do you remember?” Asked Sunset.

“That is not important at this time.” Said Cosmo. “I think I have an idea about how the Numbers work.”

“Ok, go on.” Said Sunset.

“I believe the Numbers take form based on the desires of the holder.” Cosmo theorised.

Sunset thought about it. “Yeah, you might be right.” She replied. “Look at Vice-Principal Luna. She wanted control and that's what the Number gave her.”

“Yes, indeed. I believe we must talk to those who have used the Numbers and ask about their experiences.” Insisted Cosmo.

“Sounds like a plan. But let’s do that tomorrow. I’m beat.” Said Sunset as she dragged herself off the couch and up to her bed.

“Yes lets.” Replied Cosmo.

Sunset took off her coat, boots and jeans, climbed into her bed, and quickly fell asleep.

As she slept, Cosmo floated above her. “I wonder why do you need sleep and I do not? I have so many questions?” She pondered to herself. “And little answers”. Cosmo looked at Sunset’s necklace. For some reason It looked familiar to her. She reached out to touch it. Then suddenly, a bright light engulfed her. When she opened her eyes, she was inside what appeared to be a giant clockwork machine. “What is this place and where is it?” She asked.

Meanwhile, in the abandoned amusement park, in the castle, the little child was seen sitting in his usual tall back chair. “Hmm, what to do? What to do?” He said to himself, rapping his knuckles on the chair arm.

Just then, The door to the dark room swung open and a shadowy figure stepped into the room. “We found more.” The figure said.

“Have they taken form?” Asked the child.

“Some, but not all.” The figure replied.

“Hmm, we need to do something with those blank Numbers.” Said the child.

“Maybe we need someone to distribute them for us.” Said the figure.

“YES!” Shouted the child. “Find me a lost soul.”

“I will take care of it.” Then the figure left the room.

“Soon, I will have what I lost, and then I will finally be complete again.” The child then started to laugh long and loud.

Who are these mysterious people?
How can they collect blank Numbers?
Can Sunset and her friend’s fight the unknown?

Numbers obtained: 4

Number 51: Finisher the Strong Arm / obtained from Vinyl Scratch
Number 11: Big Eye / Obtained from Vice-Principal Luna

To Be Continued...

Rank 3: Playtime

It had been about two weeks since Vice-Principal Luna was under the control of a Number. The school was now back to normal, and most of the stuff Vice-Principal Luna paid for with the school funds had been removed, except for the security cameras.

Pinkie and the other’s wanted to make a secret number investigation squad or S.N.I.S.

It was after school on Friday. Sunset was heading back to her apartment.

“Sunset, may I ask you a question?” Asked Cosmo.

“Sure, what’s up?” Said Sunset.

“This idea that Pinkie Pie had about the Secret Number Investigation Squad. Are you going to join them?”

Sunset looked down at the ground. “It’s complicated,” She said with a sigh. “I want their help with the Number cards, but I’m afraid that I’ll be putting them in danger again.”

Cosmo understood Sunset’s Dilemma.

Sunset got back to her appointment to find a note nailed to the door. It read ‘Eviction Notice.’ “WHAT!!!” Sunset shouted, her eyes going wide in shock.

“What does this mean, Sunset?” Asked Cosmo.

Sunset, with a shaky voice, replied, “T-this means I'll be homeless.” Sunset ran up some more flights of stairs to her Landlords appointment. She knocked on the door.

An older looking man answered and opened the door. “Hello Sunset. I know why you're here,” The man said.

“Look, I know I’m a little behind on the rent but…” She stopped speaking when the landlord raised his hand.

“Listen Sunset, you're a good kid and all, but the problem is that you are two months behind. I truly am sorry, but I’ve got no choice here. You have until the end of the month to pay off your debt or you’ll have to move out.” He gave her an apologetic look, before closing the door.

Sunset returned back to her appointment to think how she was going to get out of this mess.

Cosmo flew down to Sunset’s level. “From my understanding of this world, we need money to pay off your debt.”

“Yeah, you're right,” said Sunset with a sigh. “But the problem is, I have no money to pay off my debt. I can’t deal with this now. I need to try and think about this.”

The next day at school, Sunset met up with her friends in the music room where the girls had gathered. Sunset stood up in front of them to get their attention. “Okay, listen up. I got something to tell you guys.”

Pinkie cut in, saying, “Oh, I know! You're going to tell us about how you got your First Number! Or are you going to tell us that it’s too dangerous for us to be involved?! Or maybe…” Rainbow Dash put her hand on Pinkie’s mouth, stopping her rambling.

“How about we let Sunset actually tell us,” Said Rainbow, rolling her eyes.

Sunset explained her situation with her Landlord. Needless to say, the girls were shocked.

“You're going to get kicked out?” Asked Applejack

“What are you going to do?” Asked Fluttershy.

“We must do something!” Stated Rarity.

Twilight looked at Sunset. “Sunset, what did you do to earn money before?” She asked.

“I had a job, but the place I worked at got shut down. And it’s been a challenge to find work.” Sunset placed her head into her hand. “I don’t know what to do.”

“Yeah, that is a problem,” Said Twilight.

Spike poked out his head from Twilight’s bag. “How about that crazy guy? You know, the one who gave Derpy those gems.”

“I may be desperate, but I don’t want to ask for handouts,”Sunset said with a frown.

“I got an idea!” Said Rainbow. “We just need to get Sunset a new job and that will fix everything!”

Sunset put her hand to her chin to think. “I have tried to look for work before, but who knows, we might get lucky. Alright, yeah, let’s do it!”

Meanwhile, the Crusaders were inside the School Library.

“Okay, girls! We've got 15 booster packs, that’s 5 each!” Said Applebloom excitedly.

“Alright, so how are we going to do this?” Asked Scootaloo.

“How about we randomly pick 5 and take it from there?” Asked Sweetie Belle.

The girls nodded their heads to agree. But before anything else could happen, Diamond Tiara and her best friend, Silver Spoon ran into the library.

“Did we lose her?” Asked Diamond Tiara, in a slightly panicked voice.

“I think so,” Replied Silver Spoon.

Applebloom and her friends looked at Diamond and Silver. “Is everything okay, girls?” Asked Sweetie Belle.

The two girls didn’t answer. Instead, they dashed over to the girls, and hid under the table the three Crusaders were using. “We are not here, got it!” Hissed Diamond.

The Crusaders looked at each other and shrugged.

Then the door swung open, and a girl carrying a teddy bear with diamonds stitched in its eyes walked in. She wore a dress like that of a princess, she even had a crown on her brow like the queen of England had. She scanned the room, then she walked over to the Crusaders. “Have you three seen Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon?” She asked in a high society tone.

“Sorry, no, we’ve been busy with our own stuff,” Replied Applebloom.

The girl looked down at the booster packs. “I understand, I mean I play this game myself but I have a custom deck. And I have a collection of super rare cards,” She said arrogantly.

“Well in any case we’ll just get back to doing what we're doing,” Stated Scootaloo.

“Well, I suppose I should leave you commoners be,” The girl said, before walking out of the library, her nose held high. After she left, Diamond and Silver crawled out of their hiding place.

“I think we can see why you want to avoid her,” said Sweetie Belle.

“Yeah, we better get going. She might come back here,” said Diamond.

Then the two rich girls left the library as fast as they could.

“Let’s resume without any more interruptions,” suggested Scootaloo.

Applebloom opened her first booster pack, and found three cards inside. She looked at them, and her eyes widened in shock and surprise. “No way!” She gasped.

“What’s wrong?” Asked Sweetie Belle.

Applebloom showed the cards to her friends. The two of them nearly jumped in shock. “I can’t believe my eyes!” Exclaimed Scootaloo.

“I know, how is this possible?!” Asked Sweetie Belle.

Applebloom then noticed a note inside the pack.”Hey, girls, listen to this,” she said, reading the note allowed. “To whomever this may concern, congratulations on finding these three cards. This was a little game I felt like playing just for entertainment. With these cards, you’ll be the talk of the town. All the best. Yours sincerely, Maximillion Pegasus?!”

“Wow!” the girls said at once.

“This is so awesome! You're the luckiest girl alive!” Stated Scootaloo.

“What are you going to do with them?” Asked Sweetie Belle.

“I-I don’t know,” Replied Applebloom, a little overwhelmed by her sudden good fortune.

Just then, the girl that Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon were avoiding returned to the library. “Back here again? Commoner buildings are so easy to get lost in,” She complained. She looked at the Crusaders and saw the cards in Applebloom’s hands. She got a greedy glint in her eyes, and dashed over to them. “Those cards you have there! Those are the three of a kind Black Luster Soldier cards! You must sell them to me right now!” She demanded. Applebloom was in an awkward position with this girl, a complete stranger, who was trying to make her sell something she just got. “100 million each, right here and now!” The girl shouted.

“W-Wait, what?! 100 million?!” Stutered Applebloom.

“Come on, look at it like this,” The girl continued rudely. “It’s more than your inbred redneck family could ever make in a lifetime!” She said in an insensitive fashion.

“What did you just say to her!?” Shouted Sweetie Belle.

“What?” The girl said in an oblivious tone.

“Did you call our friend an ‘inbred redneck’?!” shouted Sweetie Belle again.

“What's wrong with you?!” Scootaloo also shouted.

“Ohh, I get it. You girls don’t know how things work. Let me explain it to you. I am super rich so I can do, buy and say everything I want! And I really want those CARDS, SO STOP BEING SO SELFISH AND SELL THEM TO ME RIGHT NOW!” she screamed.

“No! I will never sell these cards to you! Not now, not ever! NOW GET AWAY FROM US!” yelled a now furious Applebloom.

The girl's eyes twitched in anger. “This is not the end of this!” She threatened. She turned on her heel and stormed out of the library.

Once she was gone, Sweetie Belle looked at her friends, looking a bit worried. “You don’t think she means what she says, do you?” She asked.

Scootaloo snorted. “Puh-lease!” She exclaimed. “I doubt we've got anything to worry about from that spoiled brat. I bet she can’t even blow her own nose without someone doing it for her.”

“I hope you're right, Scootaloo,” said Applebloom.

Meanwhile, back with Sunset and her friends.

“Okay, no one’s hiring anybody who’s still in high school,” Stated Sunset glumly.

“Sorry, Sunset. I really thought someone would be hiring,” Rainbow Apologised.

“What can I do now? If I don’t find a way to pay off my debt, I’ll be homeless!” Sunset said, now more worried than ever.

“Oh, oh, I know!” Shouted Pinkie Pie. “Why don’t you get a roommate? You might get lucky and get a roommate who’s got plenty of money to spare!” She said enthusiastically.

“Well, that may work. What do you think, Sunset, darling?” Asked Rarity.

“What have I got to lose?” Replied Sunset.

“Okay, in that case, you’ll need to put an ad in the local newspaper,” Said Twilight.

“Alright, I’ll put the ad in the newspaper and I’ll just have to hope for the best,” Said Sunset.

Two and a half days later, Sunset meets up with her friends at school.

“How did it go, Sugarcube?” Asked Applejack.

“Well, I did have a few people come over for the roommate ad,” She took a deep breath. “It could have gone better,” Replied Sunset.

“I’m so sorry, Sunset,” Said Fluttershy.

“Maybe you can move in with one of us?” Pinkie Pie jumped in with excitement.

“From the way things are looking for me, either I move in with one of you guys, or go and live in a homeless shelter,” A depressed Sunset said.

At the bus station, a dark skinned girl stepped off a bus. “Canterlot City? Now all I have to do is find the school and a place to stay,” She said to herself. She looked at the map and started to walk.

Meanwhile, the school day had just ended, and Applebloom and her friends were walking home. Not too far behind them, a man dressed in black had been following them.

The girl, following her map walked past an alleyway. She stopped when she suddenly heard shouting. “What do you want, creep!” She looked down the alley, seeing the three Crusaders, who were cornered by the man.

“HEY! WHAT'S GOING ON HERE?!” She shouted at the man.

“It has nothing to do with you!” He shouted, pointing at the girl

She walked up to him and said, “Why don’t I make it something to do with me?” Before the man could react, the girl pulled back her leg, and kicked him hard in the crotch. His face scrunched up in pain, and he fell to his knees, right before the girl grabbed his head and slammed his nose on her knee, breaking it.

A police officer was passing by and saw the commotion. “What’s going on here?” He asked.

“This creep was stalking these girls,” The girl replied.

“It’s true!” The Crusaders said at the same time.

“Okay, in that case, I’ll just take this guy in for questioning. Alright, girls, buddy system,” Instructed the police officer

The girl looked at the officer. “I can walk these girls home if that’s okay?” she said.

“I don’t see a problem with that,” Replied the officer. “All right, you take care, girls.”

The four girls left the alleyway. Not too long after, the Crusaders sisters approached them, all looking worried.

Applejack spoke first. “Who are you? And why are you with our sisters?”

Applebloom stepped up to her sister. “She saved us from a creep who stalked us from the school,” she explained.

“Really! Well thank you very much for helping our little sisters,” Chimed Rarity.

“How did you save them?” Asked Rainbow Dash.

“It was so cool! First she kicked him in his nuts and then she slammed his face into her knee!” Cheered Scootaloo.

“I bet I could've done something even cooler,” said Rainbow, with a deadpan look.

“Anyway, thank you for helping...wait, we don’t know your name,” said Applejack

“Oh yeah. The name’s Chrysalis,” The girl introduced herself.

“Well, I’m Applejack.” she shook Chrysalis's hand.

“Rarity. Charmed to meet you,” Rarity said, doing the same.

“Rainbow Dash,” she said, giving Chrysalis a fist bump.

“Nice to meet you guys, but I gotta get going now.” Chrysalis left the girls and walked away, with the Crusaders all waving goodbye to their savior.

Chrysalis finally reached Canterlot High. She made her way to meet Principal Celestia. “Sorry for being late,” She apologised as she entered the Principal's office.

“I was beginning to think you weren’t coming,” Replied Principal Celestia. She looked at Chrysalis and saw blood on her left knee. “Did something happen?” She asked.

“Umm, yeah, something did,” Chrysalis replied hesitantly.

“Would you care to explain?” Asked Principal Celestia.

“Some guy was trying to do something bad to these three girls, and if I didn’t help, who knows what would have happened to them,” Explained Chrysalis.

“Hmm, I see,” Principal Celetia said with a frown. “Well, I’m sorry to tell you this, but violence will not be tolerated here at Canterlot High, considering your record,” Explained Principal Celestia.

“I know, and I do appreciate you giving me a chance,” Chrysalis said.

“Well, if we are on the same page, then welcome to Canterlot High School,” Principal Celestia welcomed her new student.

With her enrollment now official, Chrysalis left the school and by chance a newspaper flew into her foot. She picked it up, looked at it, seeing the ad that Sunset put in it. “Looking for a roommate are we? Hmm?” She thought to herself.

Meanwhile, back with Sunset, she was now on the verge of going into a full on panic, as the deadline to pay her debt was approaching. “I’m so at the end of my rope!” She said to herself, pacing around her apartment. “What am I going to do?” She was then broken out of her thoughts when Cosmo appeared out of Sunset’s key.“Oh! Hey, Cosmo! It's been awhile. Where were you?” She asked.

“I was exploring the world inside your Key, but my efforts bore no fruit,” Sighed Cosmo.

“Same here. And now the deadline is next week, and I've got nothing to pay for it with! No job or roommate. There’s nothing I can do now,” A depressed Sunset explained.

“I see. So is there no solution?” Asked Cosmo.

“My friends said I could crash with them. But I don’t want to put them in that situation,” Sunset explained. Just then, they heard a knock at the door. “That can’t be the landlord.” Sunset walked to the door and opened it. Standing there was Chrysalis. Sunset entered scan mode.
“About my age, my height, great fashion sense, and looking hot!” She thought excitedly.

“Umm, I’ll have to start charging you if you keep staring,” Chrysalis said with a raised eyebrow.

“Oh! Sorry about that!” Apologised Sunset with a light blush.

“So, anyway, I read that you're looking for a roommate?” Asked Chrysalis.

“Oh, yes, come in,” said Sunset. Chrysalis and Sunset sat down on Sunset’s couch. “Look, I’ll just cut to the chase. I’m desperate and I’m running out of time. So if you want to stay, I’ll say yes,” explained Sunset.

“Ohh, right. Pretty bad, huh?” Chrysalis asked.

Before Sunset could answer, there was another knock on the door again. Sunset went to open it. She gulped when she saw it was her Landlord. He didn’t look happy. “Hello, Sunset. Sorry for the interruption, but my wife wants you out by the end of the day,” He informed her.

“What?!” Sunset exclaimed. “I thought I had till the end of the week?!”

“I’m sorry Sunset, but my wife wants you out. There’s nothing I can do,” He explained with a grim look, before turning and started walking away.

Sunset, going into a full blown panic, started hyperventilating. But just then, Chrysalis walked up to her and called out to the landlord. “How much does she owe you?” She demanded.

The Landlord stopped in his tracks and turned to look at Chrysalis. “Well, I don’t see why it’s your business, young lady, but she owes about $30,000 total,” He replied.

Chrysalis picked up her duffel bag, unzipped it, and pulled out 3 wodges of cash. “Here you go, 30 Grand on the dot,” She said, handing over the money to the bewildered Landlord.

“Umm, thank you, have a nice day,” He said awkwardly, before turning and walking away, staring at the money in his hands.

“Yeah you too,” Chrysalis called after him before she shut the door. “Well, I’d say that makes us roommates now, right?” She said with a satisfied grin.

At that moment, Sunset now saw Chrysalis like an angel, with a halo, giant wings and a white gown, but she snapped out of it when she realised something.“Hold on a second. Where did you get all that money from?” She’s asked.

“I won it from a scratch card,” Replied Chrysalis.

(Random flash back)

Chrysalis scratched away furiously at the scratch card. “Come On! Cherry. Cherry! Cherry bomb! Whoo hooooooo!” She hollered ecstatically, annoying several of the other shoppers around her.

“Hey shut up!” A voice shouted from behind her.

“No you shut up I’m rich now!” She shouted back.

(Flashback ends)

“Well, thanks alot, but why did you pay all that money?” Sunset asked again.

“A friend of mine would have done the same thing in a heartbeat,” Chrysalis said.

“I see. She is honouring the memory of her friend by doing the same action they would have done,” Cosmo thought to herself.

“Well, in any case, we’ll have to go shopping for a bed for you and other things you’ll need,” Said Sunset.

“Lucky enough, I got plenty of money for that,” Chrysalis said, before she heard Sunset’s stomach rumble, causing her to chuckle. “Feel like pizza?” She asked with a smile.

“That sounds like a great idea,” Sunset smiled back.

Meanwhile, at the Rich mansion, Diamond Tiara’s cousin is having a tea party with her super expensive toys. “Hmm, I wonder what’s taking so long? He should have got those cards from that redneck,” she said with an impatient scowl. All of a sudden, the room went dark, “Oh, what now? I swear, someone is going to be fired for this!” She shouted.

“I'm afraid that thug you hired is sitting in the police station with a broken nose,” Said a low, female voice.

“Who’s there?” The bratty girl demanded.

From the darkness, a girl in a clown costume with a Japanese clown mask stepped up to her. “You won’t need those worthless cards. Not once I give you this truly one of a kind card for your collection,” she says, throwing a card at her.

The girl looked at the card, only to scowl when she saw that the card was blank. “Is this some kind of joke?” She said, but when she looked up, the clown was gone, and the room was lit again. She looked back at the card. “What a piece of cheap garbage!” She was about to toss the card onto the floor, planning to stomp on it, when the card began to glow, and a thick dark mist covered her, causing her to groan and grasp her head, as she heard a demonic voice in her head.

“Yes, Zirconia Crown! Let the Number take hold!”

The now named Zirconia Crown lowered her hands and gave a sinister smirk. “You’d better watch out little redneck. I'm going to have a lot of fun with you,” She laughed to herself, as the Number 28 appeared on her right cheek. Zirconia Rich then left her room and went into Diamond Tiara’s room.

“Ohh, Zirconia, what do you won’t?” Diamond Tiara asked with groan, not at all happy to see her.

Zirconia said nothing, just staring at her cousin with that same smirk, before she held up her new card, and with a flash of violet light, Diamond Tiara vanished, and lying on the floor in her place was a doll that looked just like her.

“With this power I’ll get those cards from that red neck. No one can stop me now.” Zirconia picked up the Diamond Tiara doll and strolled back to her room.

The next day, Sunset and Chrysalis were shopping for new items for the apartment.

“Ok, we got a new bed, a new wardrobe, all we need now is a bigger table and we’re done,” Said Sunset.

“Yeah, at this rate, we’ll get everything done before noon,” Replied Chrysalis.

At the same time, Sunset’s friends we’re also at the shopping district and they saw Sunset and her new roommate.

“Hey, Sunset. Is this your new roommate?” Said Twilight with a wave.

Rarity, Applejack and Rainbow Dash remembered Chrysalis from the other day.

“Nice to see you again,” Said Applejack, shaking the dark skinned girl's hand.

“You guys already met?” Asked Sunset.

“Oh, why of course darling. After she saved our sisters from that heinous miscreant yesterday,” Explained Rarity.

“Well, I guess I got a hero living with me,” Joked Sunset.

“Well in any case, I'm Twilight Sparkle,” Twilight introduced herself to Chisilis.

“I’m Pinkie Pie!” Cut in the party loving girl.

“And I’m Fluttershy,” whispered the shy girl.

“Nice to meet you all,” Said Chrysalis with a smile.

“Say Twilight, where’s Spike?” Asked Sunset.

“Oh, He’s at home, being lazy as usual,” replied Twilight, rolling her eyes.

“Oh, look at the time!” Said Rarity as she looked at her phone. “Me, Applejack and Rainbow Dash have an appointment we must keep. We must bid thee adieu.”

“See y'all later then,” said Applejack.

“Later Sunset,” said Rainbow Dash.

The three girls left the group.

“So, who's up for lunch?” asked Chrysalis.

“Oh me!” Pinkie Pie said, jumping up excitedly.

As Rarity, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash walked away, little did they know that Zirconia Crown was following them. “That red neck will give me those cards for the sake of her mother/sister!” She plotted to herself.

Rainbow Dash noticed that they were being followed and she turned around to confront their stalker. “Er, can we help you?” She asked.

“No, but the redneck there can,” Zirconia replied, pointing at Applejack.

Applejack spun on her heel and stared daggers at the rich brat. “What did ya call me?!” She shouted angrily.

“I’m having trouble with your daughter/sister, Applebloom,” Zirconia explained, completely unaffected by the cowgirl's rage.

“Excuse me, young lady, but Applejack is not Applebloom’s mother!” Rarity added sharply, disgusted at the mere thought.

“Ok, you know what, I like so totally don’t have time for this!” Zirconia said impatiently, as she raised up her new card.

“Watch out, that’s a….” Rainbow Dash tried to warn her friends, but it was too late. In a bright violet flash, Zirconia transformed all three girls into dolls.

“Now little Applebloom will have to give me those cards if she ever wants her mother/sister and her annoying little peasant friends back,” Zirconia said with an evil smirk, before pulling out her phone. “Come and pick me up!” She commanded.

Back with Sunset and the other’s, Chrysalis was getting to know Sunset’s friends.

“Ok, let's see if I got your names. Your Twilight Sparkle, you’re smart and you have a dog. And your Fluttershy, an animal lover and super shy. And you’re Pinkie Pie and you're a total party animal,” Chrysalis summarised.

“Right indeedee!” Said Pinkie Pie with her usual cheerful smile.

“Yep, you got it right,” Said Twilight.

But before anything else could happen, Applebloom and her friends ran up to Sunset and the others. “Sunset, we need your help!” Applebloom shouted, huffing and puffing.

“What’s wrong, Applebloom?” Asked Sunset.

“We were at the Duel shop when Applebloom got an anonymous text,” Explained Sweetie Belle.

Applebloom showed the text to Sunset.

The message read,

I got your sisters/mother

if you want to see her again you will give me those cards

you have 2 hours or else redneck!

Sunset frowned and asked, “And who sent this?”

“We know who! It was Diamond Tiara’s cousin!” Scootaloo told her.

“Excuse me, but what’s that you're saying about Zirconia?” Said a young voice. They all turned and saw Diamond Tiara’s best friend, Silver Spoon, who looked slightly worried.

“Uh, Zirconia?” Asked Sunset.

“Diamond's cousin, Zirconia Crown,” Said Silver Spoon. “I’m kinda looking for her, because she might know where Diamond is.”

“Why? Is something wrong?” Sunset asked again.

“I don’t know.” Silver replied. “I haven’t seen Diamond all day. I’ve tried calling her and texting her, but she won’t answer.”

“Look Silver, I’d like to help you, but I think we have a more immediate problem,” Said Sunset, before turning back to Applebloom. “Okay, so what exactly are these cards she wants?” She asked.

Applebloom opened her bag and pulled out the three valuable cards. “She means these,” She said, handing them to Sunset.

As soon as Sunset looked at the cards, her eyes widened and her jaw dropped, as she stared at the cards in shock and awe. “How...how did you get these cards?!” She asked in an awestruck tone.

“That’s the thing. I got them in a special booster pack that Maximillion Pegasus did just for fun. And I was lucky enough to get these cards!” Explained Applebloom.

“Well I’ve heard enough, let’s find this chick and break her legs!” Exclaimed Chrysalis, cracking her knuckles.

“Um, I think she might only be 10 or 12,” Said Fluttershy, with a nervous look.

“I’ll still break something she loves,” Replied Chrysalis, rolling her eyes. “Like I did with that thug when I broke his nose when he was harassing these three,” she finished, gesturing toward the Crusaders.

“Whoa! If that’s what you’d do to a kid, I’d hate to see what you do to a pinata!” Giggled Pinkie. “ARIGHT GIRLS, RESCUE MISSION TIME!” She screamed at the top of her lungs. Everyone just looked at Pinkie Pie. “I mean, we can just skip all the dialogue and get right to the fun stuff!” She exclaimed.

“Can’t argue with that logic,” Said Sweetie Belle.

Everyone else just shrugged and the group made their way to the Rich mansion.

“Here we are,” Said Applebloom.

“How are we going to get in without being seen?” Asked Scooterloo.

“Let’s go through the back door,” Said Chrysalis.

The group headed to the back of the mansion. There is a high wall protecting the rear of the mansion. A metal door was the only way in or out.

“Okay, now how are we getting in?” Asked Applebloom.

“I could attempt to hack the door lock,” Said Twilight.

“Or maybe we could pretend to be delivering a pizza,” Said Pinkie Pie.

“Come on guys, think, we need a plan,” Said Sunset.

“I think Chrysalis has an idea,” Sweetie Belle said, pointing upwards.

There was a tall tree standing next to them, and Chrysalis was currently climbing it. She then jumped from the tree with the grace of a cat, and disappeared down the other side of the wall. A moment later, a metallic clunk was heard, and the metal door swung open. “Easy peasy,” she said as she poked her head through.

“Wow!” everyone said, impressed.

“Alright, girls, let’s go!” Said Sunset, leading the way inside.

Once they got inside, they began searching the mansion. While Sunset and her group searched the mansion, Zirconia was playing dress up with her new dolls. “There we go. I’ve fixed that so outdated tomboy look and made you into a beautiful maiden,” She said proudly.

Indeed, she had dressed the doll of Rainbow Dash into a frilly princess dress. Though no one could hear her, Rainbow was screaming on the inside. “SOMEONE PLEASE KILL ME NOW!!”

“Now, where did I put that handsome prince?” Zirconia looked around her room to find the doll, but just then, her bedroom door opened and Sunset and her group came in.

As soon as she saw Zirconia, Applebloom marched right up to her, scowling furiously. “Alright, you no good, spoiled brat! Where’s my sister?!” She demanded.

“You’re early, redneck,” Smirked the evil girl. “You know the deal. Now where are my cards?”

Just then, Cosmo appeared above the girls heads, staring at Zirconia. “Sunset, that girl. I believe she possesses a Number Card,” she stated.

Sunset gave Zirconia a hard look, and saw a number 28 appear on her right cheek. Just then, she saw the young rich girl raise a card into the air, a violet glow surrounding her.“MOVE!” She shouted in warning. Chrysalis and Sunset jumped back, shielding their eyes from the flash. When Sunset lowered her hands, she looked in horror as she saw a set of dolls lying on the floor that looked exactly like the crusaders and her friends!

Chrysalis was just as shocked, and couldn’t believe her eyes. “W-what just happened!?” She asked, about to freak out.

“Oh, I missed two, no matter,” Said Zirconia with that same sinister smirk, as she raised her card again.

“Wait, Stop!” Sunset shouted. “I know what that card you have is! A Number Card! That’s what gives you your power! I have Number Cards too!”

Zirconia again hears the demonic voice in her head. “Take her Numbers! Take the Key!”

This made her smirk widen. “Oh, is that so? Well if that's the case, why don’t you be a good little peasant and hand them over?” she said.

Sunset glared at her. “If you want them, you’ll have to Duel me for them!” she stated firmly.

“Alright, I’ll Duel you, and when I win, your Number’s will be mine, making that much more powerful, that little rednecks rare cards will be mine, and you’ll be my new little dolly,” Zirconia said, narrowing her eyes.

“And if I win, I'll take your Number card and save my friends,” Replied Sunset.

“Wait, you're going to duel her?” asked Chrysalis in confusion. “She can't be that good, she’s just a bratty little kid. And what’s this about numbers and getting turned into dolls?”

“Chrysalis, I’m sorry, but I don’t have time to explain right now,” Said Sunset, with a look of serious determination in her eyes.

Chrysalis saw Sunset’s determination, and knew whatever was happening was serious. “Alright, but you have to promise to tell me what the hell is going on,” she said.

“Alright, I promise,” Sunset said as she reached into her bag and pulled out her D-pad and Duel Gazer.

Zirconia had already slipped on her own D-pad and Duel gazer. “Come on, let's get this over with!” She said impatiently, rolling her eyes. She and Sunset both activated their D-pads and Gazers, the virtual Duel Field forming around them, as they drew their opening hands.

“DUEL!” Both girls shouted.

Sunset Shimmer: LP 4000 / Zirconia Crown: LP 4000.

“Royalty first, peasant!” Zirconia said, making Sunset and Chrasilis both cringe before facepalming.

“This girl’s clearly delusional,” They both thought in unison, as the spoiled girl took the first turn.

“First, I activate the Field Spell, Marionette Kingdom!” The whole room suddenly underwent a metamorphosis, with a wooden fairytale castle appearing behind Zirconia. The rest of the room became what looked like a town, but all the buildings were wooden, painted cutouts. Even the sky had wooden clouds, and a wooden sun, and you could clearly see the strings which they hung from.

“Welcome to my kingdom!” Zirconia announced dramatically. “And of course, every queen needs servants, so here's my first one. I normal summon Mariournette Maid!” In front of her, a marionette slowly came down from the sky, kneeling down, before rising to its feet, pulled up by its strings. The marionette was dressed in a black and white maids uniform, had painted on eyes and a smiling mouth, and blond hair tied up in a bun.

Marionette Maid: Attribute: EARTH: Type: Spellcaster: Level 2: ATK 500 / DEF 500

Cosmo stared at the seemingly harmless puppet. “Curious. Why would she begin her first turn with such a weak monster?” she asked out loud.

“If you're wondering why I summoned such a weak monster, It’s because when Marionette Maid is summoned, I can activate her effect,” Continued Zirconia. “By discarding a level 4 monseter, I can Special Summon two more Maids from my deck to the field in Defense Mode.” Like she said, she discards a card from her hand, and two more Maids appear on either side of the first, both on their knees.

“Now she has three Level 2 monsters on her field,” Said Cosmo. “Sunset. You know what this means.”

“Unfortunately, I do,” Said Sunset grimly. “She’s about to XYZ Summon.”

“Time to ensure my victory!” Zirconia boasted. “I now overlay all three of my Maids to build the Overlay Network!” Her three maids turned into three streaks of brown light, flying up into the sky, as a blue galaxy-like portal appeared beneath them. The three streaks of light flew into the portal, as the Number 28 appeared. “You’ve seen just a few of my puppets, but now it’s time to meet their master! Come forth and serve your queen! Number 28: Puppeteer!” From the portal, emerged a large, black, cone shaped object, which opened up and unfollowed, revealing a humanoid figure inside, hanging behind the figure like a cape. The figure was another Marionette, or rather a twisted version of one. It had two heads, one with the face of comedy, the other with the face of tragedy. The rest of its body was like a nightmare. It had a wooden ribcage, with a spine that led down to nothing. Inside the ribcage, was an ornate wooden box, with a keyhole on the front, and the number 28 glowing on the top. Just looking at it made you dread what might be inside. As with all XYZ monsters, it was orbited by three balls of violet light.

Number 28: Puppeteer: ATK 500 / DEF 500

Chrysalis shivered at the sight of the ghoulish creature. “Whoa, Nightmare Fuel R Us,” she muttered, before adding with a sigh, “I miss that store.”

“So this is the new Number Card,” Said Cosmo. “With only 500 ATK points, that must mean it has a powerful effect to compensate for it.”

“Yup, dueling 101,” Added Sunset. “Weak monsters almost always have strong effects to make up for their lack of force. Only question is, what effect does this one have?”

“Afraid yet? You should be!” Said Zirconia with a sinister smirk. “You’ll soon know what fear is. But before that, I shall play two cards face down and end my turn.”

“About time,” Sunset muttered, placing her hand on top of her deck. “It’s my turn! I Draw!” She declared, drawing her card into her hand. She looked over all the cards in her hand very carefully. “Okay, she’s already summoned her Number,” She thought. “I’d better do the same, quickly.” With that, she played her first card. “I Normal Summon Goblindbergh!” Flying down from the sky, came a squadron of small red Bi-planes, piloted by goblins, and hauling a large crate.

Goblindbergh: level 4: ATK 1400 / DEF 0

“And when Goblindbergh is Normal Summoned, I can activate its effect, which allows me to summon a Level 4 or lower monster from my hand. I Special Summon Gogogo Golem!”

Next to the squadron, appeared a giant with a stone body, and bulky arms and legs.

Gogogo Golem: Level 4: ATK 1800 / DEF 1500

“Now I have 2 Level 4 monsters on the field,” Sunset continued. “I overlay them to build the Overlay Network!” Both of her monsters transformed into steaks of orange light, flying into the sky, as another galaxy-like portal appeared, the two streaks flying into it. “Time for you to meet my knight in shining armor! I XYZ Summon Number 39: Utopia!” With those words, the gold and silver device unfolded, revealing the form of the powerful warrior, orbited by two orbs of light.

Number 39: Utopia: Rank 4: ATK 2500 / DEF 2000

“What I’m about to do may be reckless, but I have a chance to take a huge lead if I act Now. I can remove half of her life points. Fortune favours the bold.” Sunset thought to herself. “I now move to my Battle Phase, and now, I attack your Puppeteer with my Utopia!”

“Sunset, I don’t think you should do that,” Said Cosmo, but it was late, the order was already given. Utopia unsheathed his twin swords and charged toward Zirconia’s Number.

“Oh, peasants. You never learn, do you?” Zirconia said snidely. “You really thought I’d let you attack me that easily? Guess again! I activate my Trap Card, Draining Shield!” A small, high-tech looking shield appeared in front of Puppeteer, before projecting a force field, which absorbed the force from Utopia’s attack, stopping it in its tracks. “Not only does this card stop your toy soldier’s attack, but it now adds his ATK points to my Life Points. So not only have I got way more money than you, I now have more Life Points than you! Too bad, peasant!” She continued to gloat.

Zirconia Crown: LP 4000 + 2500 = 6500

Chrysalis, who had been watching the Duel with rapt attention, couldn’t help but groan at Sunset’s blunder. “Geezz, she walked right into that one. That’s the kind of reckless move a total newbie would make! What was she thinking?” she said to herself. Then she paused as she realised something. “Wait a minute. Come to think of it, I’ve never heard of these Number Cards. I always keep up to date on anything to do with Duel Monsters, so I should have known about them. So how can Sunset and this little brat have cards from an archetype I’ve never heard of?” Then she gasped as realisation hit her. “Wait, that’s it! Sunset didn’t attack because she was being reckless! She wanted to see what the brat’s monster could do!”

Sunset gritted her teeth in annoyance. “Jeezz, even Rarity wasn’t this annoying when she was possessed,” she thought, before making her next move. “I place two cards face down and end my turn!”

“About time! I was getting bored,” Zirconia gripped. “My turn. I Draw!” she said, drawing her next card from her deck.“And in my Standby Phase, I activate the effect of Marionette Kingdom! By banishing one Marionette monster in my Graveyard, I can draw one card for each of its levels. But there's only one monster in my Graveyard, so I’ll just banish my Marionette Soldier, and since he’s level 4, I get to draw 4 cards,” she said, doing just that. “Well, look at that. Looks like my hand is full again,” she bragged. “But before I do anything else, I shall activate my other Trap Card, Marionette Cannon!” Once her Trap Card flipped up, a puppet dressed as a soldier appeared, holding the pull cord of a small silver conan. “Once per turn, I can discard any number of cards in my hand with Marionette in its name, and for each one I discarded, you take 200 points of damage. When I had daddy commission this deck, this card was supposed to deal 1000 points of damage, but those idiots at Industrial Illusions kept saying it would make it ‘overpowered.’” She scowled, making air quotes with her hands. “Morons! I really must have daddy sue them, and then have them fired when I’m done with you.”

Sunset rolled her eyes, by now feeling quite fed up with the spoilt brat. “Ok, are we actually going somewhere with this?” She asked impatiently.

“Continuing my perfect strategy,” Zirconia went on, “I discard all the cards in my hand to inflict 1000 points of damage to you!” She discarded her five cards, the soldier pulled the cord, and the cannon fired. The shot hit Sunset, and her side of the field was covered in smoke. Zirconia cackled in a very snobbish tone. “Hahahaha! That ought to show you your place, peasant!”

But as the smoke cleared, she heard a smug sounding Sunset say, “Nope, still standing!” In front of her, spinning slowly, was a grey metallic ring, with four shields around the rim. “Sorry to disappoint you, but I activated my Ring Of Defense spell card before your shot hit me, reducing all damage I take this turn to zero!”

“WHAT?!!” Zirconia shreeked, seething with rage. “You dare defy your superior?! You’ll pay dearly for that! Because, I now activate Number 28: Puppeteer’s effect! By using one Overlay Unit, I can target one of my opponents monsters and equip it to Puppeteer! And since you only have one monster on the field, I think I’ll choose your Utopia! Now your knight in shining armor will serve a real queen, not some fantasist like you!” One of the orbs of light was absorbed into the box inside Puppeteer wooden ribcage, and the box suddenly burst open, shooting out strings which wrapped around Utopia’s arms and legs. The mighty warrior struggled hard, but he couldn’t resist the pull of the strings, as he was dragged across the field, toward the sinister marionette, and next moment, he was trapped inside the ribcage of the enemy Number.

“Utopia, no!” Sunset shouted, staring in horror.

“So this is the power of her Number!” Said Cosmo, just as shocked.

Even Chrysalis was affected by the sudden turn of events. “I know I’m just looking at holograms, but I actually feel sorry for the big guy,” she said softly.

To add insult to injury, Zirconia then added, “Oh, those one more thing I forget to mention. When Puppeteer equips a monster to itself, it gains that monster’s ATK points!” Puppeteer then reached behind itself, and unsheathed Utopia’s swords, holding them out menacingly in front of itself.

Number 28: Puppeteer: ATK 500 + 2500 = 3000

“And now, I’ll attack you directly with Puppeteer!” She looked up at her Number, and hissing through teeth, she commanded, “Puppeteer! Make. Her. BLEED!” The demonic puppet then glided across the field like a sinister serpent, raising both of Utopia’s swords, ready to bring them down on Sunset in one, vicious strike.

But before it could do so, Sunset raised her hand and yelled, “I activate my face down card, the Trap Card, Damage Diet! For the rest of this turn, any battle damage I take will cut in half!”

Zirconia gave a truly evil smik. “I don’t want your Life Points! I want your LIFE!” She said viciously.

Puppeteer swung the stolen blades straight down at Sunset, the amber skinned girl taking a few steps back to dodge them, but not enough to avoid the hit completely. She yelled in pain as the tip of the left hand blade slashed the skin of her right arm, not too deep, but enough to leave an ugly gash, a steady trickle of blood pouring from it.

Sunset Shimmer: LP 4000 - 1500 = 2500

Chrysalis, seeing the blood dripping from Sunset’s hand, looked up at Sunset’s face, which was scrunch up pain. “Uh, Sunset, are you alright?” She asked in concern. “What’s with that look on your face? It’s not it actually hit you. She then reached up and removed her Gazer from her left eye… Only for pupils to dilate, her jaw falling open in shock. She could still see the terrifying monster hanging over Sunset, and the blood dripping from the stricken girl's hand. “Wh-what? This is no Gen 3 duel. Everything is VR now.” Suddenly, all the events that had happened since she entered Zirconia’s room flashed before her eyes, repeating over and over again. She grasped her head in hands and groaned. Nothing she was seeing made any sense. But then, she remembered a trick that a friend of hers had taught her long ago.

(“Count to 4, inhale. Count to 4, exhale.”)

Crisalis did as the voice from her past told her, counting to 4, breathing in, counting to 4, breathing out. After this, her mind had settled, and she could focus on what was happening. She looked back at Sunset, seeing that her arm was still bleeding. She dashed forward, and she gently grasped hold of Sunset’s shoulders. “Ok, take it easy, I got ya.” She quickly searched her person for anything to wrap up her wound. “Ok, no bandages, no bandaids, no handkerchiefs. Gonna have to go ‘90s.” She then ripped off a large piece of fabric from the bottom of her shirt and wrapped it as tightly she could over the cut. Sunset smiled thankfully. But the moment was then rudely interrupted.

“Er, hello! It’s still my turn, you know?!” Zirconia snapped.

Both Sunset and Crisalis scowled furiously at her. “Then end it already!!” They yelled back at her.

Zirconia just tutted. “Ok, fine. I end my turn.” But in her mind, she thought, “I’ll just destroy you on my next turn!”

Now that she had a spare moment, Sunset looked at Chrysalis and smiled. “Hey, thanks. If I’d lost any more blood, I don’t know if I'd be able to keep dueling.

Chrysalis smiled back. “Don’t mention it. What are new roommates for?” Then she looked serious. “But you have a lot of explaining to do when this is over.”

“I will, I promise,” said Sunset.

Chrysalis then frowned. “Are you sure you can keep dueling with your arm like that?” She asked in concern.

“Yeah I should be fine,” Replied Sunset. She then placed her right hand on top of her deck. “It’s my turn. I DRAAAHH!” Her declaration turned into a screech of pain as her arm suddenly went limp, almost dropping her newly drawn card. Both Chrysalis and Cosmo gasped in shock.

“Sunset! It would appear that your wound is more severe than you anticipated!” Said Cosmo worriedly.

Chrysalis looked at Sunset. “Here, let me help you,” She offered.

“You should let her help you,” Suggested Cosmo.

“Alright, just stay behind me at the scary parts,” Replied Sunset.

Chrysalis took the card that Sunset was holding. “Alright ready?”

Sunset smiled. “Alright, let's do this!” She said with determination.

“Our turn! We Draw!” They said together. They looked over the cards in Sunset’s other hand.

“Ok, so what do we do?” Chrysalis asked.

“With the card we just drew, we may be able to turn this around, but it has to work perfectly,” Sunset replied. Sunset then looked carefully at her hand. “Okay, try and keep up with me.” she said to Chrysalis. “First, we activate the Spell Card, Pot of Desires!” By banishing 10 cards from the top of our deck face-down, we can Draw 2 cards!” Chrysalis removed the ten cards and then drew 2 more, holding them up for Sunset to see, and from the smile on Sunset’s face, she knew they had what they needed. “And now we Normal Summon Ganbara Knight!” Chrysalis took the right card from Sunset’s hand and placed it on her Duel Disk.

Ganbara Knight: Level 4: ATK 0 / DEF 1800

“Then we play the Spell Card Monster Reborn to bring back GoGoGo Golem!”

Gogogo Golem: Level 4: ATK 1800 / DEF 1500

Lastly, we activate the Spell Card Double Summon! This allows us to make another Normal Summon this Turn! So now we can summon GaGaGa Magician!”

GaGaGa Magician: Level 4: ATK 1500 / DEF 1000

“And now, It's time for us to take back control of this Duel. We Overlay all three of our Level 4 monsters to build the Overlay Network!” All three of their monsters transformed into three streaks of light, one yellow, one brown, and one violet, as another galaxy-portal appeared on the field, and all three lights flew straight into it. “If you thought Utopia was my only Number Card you guessed wrong! And this one is special, because It once belonged to one of my best friends! We XYZ Summon Number 52: Diamond Queen Adamant!”

The Number 52 appeared in the air, as a huge diamond emerged from the portal, which transformed into a beautiful woman with crystal like skin and wearing a white, diamond encrusted dress. On her chest was a symbol which resembled the Number 52. Circling her were three three sparks of brown light.

Number 52: Diamond Queen Adamant: Rank 4: ATK 2500 / DEF 2000

Chrysalis starred in complete awe at the newly summoned Number. “Wow! She is just so beautiful!” But she snapped out of her trance when she realised what they had just summoned. “Wait, another one of those Number Cards? How does Sunset have more than one? How many of these monsters are there? And where did they come from?” she thought to herself.

Zirconia, on the other hand, looked thoroughly unimpressed. “So you have another Number Card, big deal! And you call that a Queen? That’s just some old hag injected with Botox!” She insulted.

Unseen by Chrysalis, Adamant looked down at Zirconia with an angered scowl.

“I would watch your mouth if I were you,” Sunset warned her. “Adamant doesn’t like having her looks insulted. But now that she’s on the field, we can turn the tide in this Duel.”

“Oh yeah? And just are you going to do that? By my count, my Number has 500 more ATK points than yours, so your oversized hood ornament is useless!” Zirconia scoffed, causing Adamant’s scowl to deepen even more.

“You're about to find out. Adamant has three effects, and we’re going to activate her third one! By removing all of her Overlay Units, we can now destroy every card on your side of the field!” Sunset told her with triumph.

“WHAT!?” Zirconia shrieked in panic.

“Whoa! That is one seriously OP monster! Where did these Number cards come from? Are they all this powerful?” Chrysalis thought to herself.

“Take this! Go, Diamond Dust Storm!” Shouted Sunset.

The three orbs of light fly into Diamond Queen Adamant’s hands and become two handfuls of crystalline dust. She raised both hands, gave the spoiled girl a vengeful smirk, and blew the dust at Zirconia’s field, covering everything in a diamond like shell, making everything glisten. Once everything was covered, she raised her hand and snapped her fingers, everything began to crack and splinter, before shattering completely, everything was destroyed, while all Zirconia could do was stare in horror in shock.

Now that the cost was clear, without hesitation, Sunset moved to her Battle Phase. “Time for you to take your revenge! Adamant, Attack! Strike her down with Adamant Barrage!”

Diamond Queen Adamant smirks as she fabricates three Diamond pieces shaped like knives and throws them at Zirconia, causing the bratty girl to scream in pain.

Zirconia Crown: LP 6500 - 2500 = 4000

“Ahhhh! You bitch!” Zirconia screamed in fury.

“And with that, that’s the end of our turn,” Said a smug Sunset.

Zirconia angrily drew her next card, but inside, she was panicking. “No, No, No, NOOOOOOOOO! WITHOUT MY KINGDOM I CAN’T USE MY COMBO!” She thought to herself. “I set one monster card and end my turn!” Zirconia announced hurriedly.

“Wait, that’s all she’s gonna do?” Said a confused Chrysalis. “I thought she’s got a collection of rare cards?”

“Yeah, your right,” Replied Sunset. “With a deck like that, she should be able to easily make a comeback. But anyway, come on, we have got a Duel to finish. It's our turn! We Draw!” Chrysalis drew the next card, and showed it to Sunset. “We summon DoDoDo Warrior!”

A giant Viking rises from the ground holding a long handled axe and a round shield.

“Hold It! You can’t Summon that monster without a tribute!” Shouted Zirconia.

“Actually, thanks to DoDoDo Warrior’s effect we can. But it’s original attack becomes 1800 ”

Dododo Warrior: ATK 2300 - 500 = 1800 / DEF 900

“Now for our battle phase! Go, Dododo Warrior! Destroy her face down monster!” Ordered Sunset.

Dododo Warrior leapt into the air and with a strike from his axe, he destroyed the face down monster.

“Ha! You just destroyed my Marionette Architect!” Announced Zirconia. “Now that he’s in the graveyard, I can add Marionette Kingdom back to my hand!” She added her Field Spell back to her hand. “Soon I’ll have everything I need to finish this duel.” She thought to herself.

“Well before that, it's Adamant’s turn to attack you!” Sunset commanded.

Adamant once again formed her crystal knives and threw them at Zirconia.

Zirconia Crown: LP 4000 - 2500 = 1500

“Ahhhh! I really hate you right now!” Hissed Zirconia.

“That’s it for our turn. Let’s what else you got,” Sunset said, ending her turn

Zirconia drew her next card and looked at it. “I set a monster and end my turn!” She said with a snarl.

“She’s hardly doing anything,” Said Chrysalis in a bored tone. “Why’s she not busting out any of those rare cards?”

“No idea. But, in any case it’s our turn. We draw! And for this turn we’re going straight into our battle phase! Dododo Warrior, you're up first!” Said Sunset

Dododo Warrior runs toward the face down monster and destroys it with a swing of his axe.

“Well, look at that! This time you’ve destroyed my Marionette Hunter, and now that he’s in the graveyard, I can add one Marionette Trap card to my hand, and I choose my Marionette Cannon! On my next turn, I’ll have full control of this duel once again!” Explained Zirconia smugly.

Sunset and Chrysalis looked at Zirconia, both with deadpan looks. “Uh, sorry to rain on your parade, but did you forget about Adamant?” Asked Chrysalis.

“Ummm, no,” A nervous Zirconia said.

Sunset rolled her eyes and groaned. “Seriously? This is how this ends?” She said in a bored tone.

“Think of it this way,” added Chrysalis. “It could have gone a lot worse.”

“Yeah, I guess you’re right,” Sunset muttered. “Adamant. Do us all a favor and end this already.”

Adamant herself also looked bored, as she formed a single crystal knife and tossed it lazily at Zirconia.

“Yeowch!” Yelped Zirconia, before she collapsed.

Zirconia Crown: LP 1500 - 2500 = 0

Winner: Sunset Shimmer!

Cosmo reached out her hand and an orb of light flew away from the unconscious Zirconia and into her hand. A new memory came to her, seeing herself as a small child, looking innocent and happy. “So, I was a small child once,” She thought to herself.

At that moment, in a flash, all of Zirconia’s victims returned back to normal, “We’re back!” Cheered Applejack.

“Why am I in a puffy princess dress?!” Yelled Rainbow Dash.

Scootaloo ran up and hugged Rainbow Dash. “Rainbow Dash! I’m so happy that you're safe!” She then stepped back and looked in confusion. “But, why are you wearing a circus tent?”

“It’s a long story there squirt, ahh!” Rainbow started to say as she was about to leave the room, before tripping on the hem of her dress and falling flat on her face, causing everyone to laugh at her. Rainbow looked up at them and scowled. “I’ll murder you. I’ll murder you all,” She said under her breath darkly. She looked over at the still knocked out Zirconia. “Starting with you, you little demon child.”

“Ha!” Chuckled Chrysalis. “I’m gonna like this girl.”

“Well, that's the end of that,” Said Sunset with a sigh of relief.

“Yeah, thank god,” Praised Chrysalis.

But before anyone could say anything else, a furious shriek was heard as a now awake Zirconia Crown shot back up, flailing her arms about wildy. “No, No, Nononononono!” She hissed. “How dare you do this to me! You filthy, worthless peasants! You can’t treat me like this! I’m rich! I’m so much higher than all of you!” She continued to scream and rant like the spoiled brat she was.

Chrysalis rolled her eyes and advanced toward her. “Oh, can it, you little brat!” she snapped. “It’s your own fault you lost!”

Sunset stepped up beside her, looking down at Zirconia in disgust. “She’s right. Maybe if you’d tried something other than that stupid combo, you may have stood more of a chance. I thought you had lots of rare cards in that, and I quote, ‘Custom made Deck’?”

Zirconia finally looked up at both of them. “What? Please, don’t be ridiculous! Everybody knows you don’t actually use rare cards. They’re just for display, something to show off to my cronies. As if I’d actually use them in my deck. Don’t you know how much cards like that cost? Next thing you’ll be telling me is that Cinderella really did wear her glass slippers to the ball.”

Everyone stared at her, completely dumbstruck. “Ladies, we are in the presence of a bonafide dumbass,” Chrysalis said, before promptly facepalming.

“Uhh, you don’t actually think Cinderella’s real do you?” Pinkie Pie asked.

“Duh, of course she is,” Zirconia said with an eyeroll.

“Wow! And people say I’m silly,” Pinkie with a raised eyebrow.

“Look Zirconia,” Sunset said, giving a hard look. “Was it really worth it in the end? Just to get three rare which were never yours?”

“Of course, it was. It wouldn’t be the first time I had to use force to get what I want. Back at my old school, I find out this one kid had a super rare Spell Card, so I had to hire a guy to break his legs so he would give it to me,” She said casually, not showing the slightest sign of remorse.

Sunset crossed her arms and glared at her. “You are one sick, twisted little girl, you know that!?”

“No, I’m not sick and twisted, I’m rich! The world belongs to the rich! And all of you poor, worthless, filthy little peasants must accept the fact, THAT OUR KIND ARE SUPERIOR TO YOURS IN EVERY. SINGLE. WAY!!!” Zirconia raved, getting louder and louder, and looking more and more deranged.

“I get it now,” Sunset said in utter disappointment. “You’re not even a true Duelist, are you? You just relied on that one combo, when any other Duelist would have adapted to the situation and tried a different strategy. In fact, I bet the only reason you play Duel Monsters is that you found it was popular, and that there were rare cards that were worth a lot of money, so you bought and cheated a lot of people out of their rare cards just so you could say you had them. I bet you don’t even know what half of them actually do, do you? No wonder you're named Zirconia. You're just as fake as the worthless hunk of glass you’re named after!”

It was at that moment, Filthy Rich entered the room. “Zirconia, have you…” He started to speak, but then he noticed the crowd of girls who were also in the room. “What’s going on here?” He asked.

“Uncle Filthy, thank goodness you're here,” Zirconia said, running up to him, fake tears filling her eyes. “These thieves are trying to rob us!” She claimed. “They should all be arrested!”

“That’s a pure lie!” Applebloom shouted. “Mr Rich, Zirconia sent me this text message.” Applebloom showed the text to Filthy Rich.

“Hmm, I see,” He said, pulling out his own phone.

“Are you calling the police to arrest these thieves?” Asked Zirconia hopefully.

“No, actually, I am calling your mother,” Replied Filthy Rich, “I’ll have her come over to take you home, young lady. I believe your business is done here.”

“What?!” Zirconia exclaimed in shock. “But Uncle Rich, these lowly peasants-”

“That is enough!” Said Filthy Rich sternly. “You are going home today, and that’s final!”

After that, the girls all left the Rich mansion, and headed for home.

“Are you alright, Sunset? That's a big gash on your arm,” Chrysalis said, a little bit worried.

“Yeah, we’ll have to sow it up when we get back,” Replied Sunset

As they headed back to the apartment, Chrysalis looked at Sunset. “So, are you going to keep your promise and explain all of this to me?” She asked.

“Can’t I tell you tomorrow, instead? Because the baby's tired,” replied Sunset with a stretch and yawn.

Chrysalis just rolled her eyes and chuckled. “Alright, but you will have to explain everything to me, got it?”

“Deal,” Sunset said as the two teenagers made their way home.

“This girl. I see that she has her secrets, but I feel that she is trustworthy. Afterall, she ran to Sunset’s aid when she needed it most,” Cosmo observed.

Back at the abandoned amusement park, in the fake castle, the girl in the trench coat and mask appeared before her master.

“Did you deliver the Card?” the child asked.

“Just as you instructed me, master,” She replied, bowing in respect.

“Good. I have more cards for you. Find me more Duelists with a dark side and give them a blank Number Card,” He instructed her.

“It shall be done, master,” She replied, before disappearing once more into the shadows.

“Go forth my little pawn and bring me complete Numbers,” The child chuckled to himself.

Who is the girl in the mask?
What is her connection to the Numbers?
And how can she distribute blank Number Cards?

To Be Continued...

Numbers obtained: Five

Number 28: Puppeteer

Author's Note

Hi guy’s sorry about the update just been busy with the lockdown.
Say safe and enjoy the chapter

Hay you yeah you, you like this? Well guess what I will put your OC in future chapters.
Just send me a PM and I’ll get in touch.

Madforce entertainment

Rank 4: The investigation begins

It was a sunny saturday morning in Canterlot City.

Inside her apartment, Sunset was still tucked up in her bed, fast asleep. This was abruptly interrupted, when the radio alarm turned on. “Gooooooood morning, Canterlot!” Chimed the overly enthusiastic radio announcer. “It’s a beautiful day with plenty of opportunities! And for all of you Duelists out there, I got some big big news for you! The Wis-” the announcer's voice was silenced as Sunset slammed her hand down on the button on top of the radio, turning it off, before she sat up with a yawn, and dragged herself out of bed.

“Morning roommate!” Said Chrysalis cheerfully as Sunset walked down from her loft, holding a coffee cup.

“Morning,” Said a half asleep Sunset. Chrysalis then gave Sunset the coffee. “Thanks,” She said gratefully, then taking a sip. “Mmm, that’s good joe.”

“So, I’ve been thinking about this Number Card thing, “Continued Chrysalis. “But I still don’t fully understand.” She then looked Sunset in the eyes. “Sunset, I Seriously need to know what’s going on.”

Sunset took another sip from her coffee before saying, “Alright, I’ll try to explain.” But before she could say anymore, her phone started to ring. She answered it. “Hello… Hi Rarity… you need us at the school… yeah, yeah, we will meet you there.” She ended the call and looked at Chrysalis. “Sorry, this will have to wait.”

“Okay, but we’re picking this up at the school,” Said Chrysalis. Sunset nodded and went to get dressed.

Later, Sunset and Chrysalis arrived in front of the school. “Looks like we’re early,” Said Chrysalis, seeing no one about.

Just then, Mad Page appeared from out of the portal. “Hey, Sunset, you did tell me you were having financial trouble,” He said.

Chrysalis was puzzled. “What happened to-” She was cut off when Mad Page grabbed her and pulled her into the portal.

“Not again,” Said Sunset with a face palm.

A moment later, Chrysalis came back through, shaking like a leaf. “What the actual fuck was that!?” She yelled.

“Let’s talk!” Said Mad Page as he came back through the portal too.

Sunset just sighed, before she and Mad Page explained to Chrysalis everything. Once the explanation was done, Chrysalis looked between the two of them with an astonished look.

“So, let's see if i've got this right. you're a unicorn?,” She said, pointing at Sunset.

“Yep,” Sunset nodded.

“And he’s a demonic, crazy book?”

“Well, you're a sharp one,” Mad Page said with a wide grin.

“Chrysalis,” Sunset began with apologetic eyes, “When you become my roommate, I didn’t expect you to get involved. I’m sorry, and I will understand if you don’t want to be my roommate anymore.”

“What? No,” Chrysalis said, giving Sunset a determined, resolute look. “Sunset, I understand this thing a bit better, but not a lot. That said, I will not just leave you, not now. After all, I paid you rent and all my stuff is at your place. I’ll stand with you through thick and thin.” She finished with a reassuring smile.

“Thanks, Chrysalis,” Sunset said with a grateful smile, and the two girls hugged, increasing their friendship.

“Hey, Sunset,” Said Mad Page. “Sorry to spoil the moment, but the gang is coming. You should go greet them. Chrysalis, can we chat?” Sunset went to speak to the girls, leaving Chrysalis alone with Mad Page. “You know my counterpart don’t you?” He Asked.

“How did you know?” She asked him with suspicion.

“That look in your eyes. Dead give away,” Answered Mad Page simply.

“Oh. Sorry, it’s just we haven’t seen each other in a long time and I just...” said Chrysalis before trailing off.

“It’s fine, anyone would react the same way,” Mad Page reassured her. “Well, I’ve outstayed my welcome. Take care of Sunset and yourself,” With that said, Mad Page turned and he rolled his chair back through the portal.

After he had left, Chrysalis then starts to think about her Mad Page. “I wonder what he's doing right now,” She said to herself, before heading inside the school.

Chrysalis rejoined Sunset and the other girls in the music room. “Um, Sunset, are you sure it’s okay for Chrysalis to be here?” Asked Rainbow, eyeing Chrysalis warily.

“Yeah, it’s fine, she knows everything,” Replied Sunset with a dismissive shrug.

“Moving on to the important stuff, Rarity and I made special cards for the Secret Number Investigation Squad! Or S.N.I.S for short,” Said a very enthusiastic Pinkie Pie. She started to pass them out. “One for you, one for you, one for you, one for you, one for you, one for you, and last one for you!”

“Hey, cool,” Said Rainbow.

“I feel like a real detective,” Said Rarity.

“Is there one for Solar Force, too?” Asked Sunset.

“Yep, but he’s not here yet,” Replied Pinkie Pie.

“We'll give it to him when we see Luna. So let's get started. First stop at Rarity's boutique,” Said Sunset.

The Squad made their way to Rarity’s boutique, where Rarity showed them the sewing machine. “I found my Number Card here, wedged in between the gears. I thought it was put there to protect the gears,” She explained.

“So you took it out, and then you became this crazy, obsessive dress maker?” Asked Applejack.

“Yes, I can remember my state of mind at the time. I still have the recording and all the dresses,” Rarity said.

“You still can’t sell them?” Asked Sunset.

“It’s a challenge to find anyone who would buy them,” Said a sad Rarity.

“Okay, I may not be a fashion expert, but even I can tell, this is well made. Do you take requests?” Chrysalis asked Rarity as she examined one of her dresses.

“Traditional, I’d say yes, darling, but I’m afraid I am having financial problems right now. If I don’t sell these dresses, and soon, I’ll lose the shop,” Explained Rarity in a worried tone.

“I’m so sorry to hear that, Rarity,” Said Fluttershy as she gave her friend a comforting hug.

Sunset looked at Rarity with worried eyes as well. “I wish I could help you, Rarity,” She said. “But I’m having my own problems, right now. It’d gotten so bad, I had to get a roommate just to afford rent.”

“Hey, you know I got your back, Sunny,” Chrysalis said with reasuringing smile.

“Thanks, Chrysalis,” Sunset smiled back.

“Please,” said Chrasilis with a smirk, “call me Chryssy.”

“Oh, my god,” Fluttershy whispered with wide eyes, “They already have nicknames for each other.”

“Oh La La,” Rarity said with a smirk, “I totally ship it.”

“OK, Y’all,” Applejack said, killing the mood, “That’s enough fan service. Let’s get back to the investigation.”

“Well, anyway, if you’re strapped for cash, why not ask that weird guy in the wheelchair?” suggested Rainbow. All eyes turned to look at Rainbow. “I mean he gave Derpy more than enough to start her company,” Rainbow continued.

“Wait, what company?” Asked Chrysalis.

“Muffin Queen!” Answered Pinkie Pie.

“To be honest, I think this may be your only choice,” Twilight told Rarity.

“Well, I’m not one for taking handouts, but if need’s must,” Rarity said as she considered all the facts.

“Don’t worry, Rarity, I’ll contact him later,” Said Sunset reassuringly.

“Thank you, darling,” Rarity said gratefully.

After they finished at Rarity’s shop, the girls went to pay Vinyl Scratch a Visit. They met Vinyl and Octavia at the music shop. Vinyl was helping Octavia as she was still in her neck brace. “Let me pay for your stuff, Octi,” Vinyl insisted.

“Vinyl, I understand you want to make amends, but this is too much,” Octavia tried to argue.

“I know, I just want to do everything to make you feel better and make up for what I did,” Said Vinyl in a remorseful tone.

“That’s sweet of you, Vinyl, but you’ve already done enough,” Octavia said in a soft voice.

Just then, Sunset and the other approached them. “Hi girls,” Sunset greeted with a wave.

“How’s your neck, Octavia darling?” Asked Rarity with a caring look on her face.

“The doctor said there is no damage. Just a sprain. Good news is, he’ll be taking the brace off later today,” Octavia replied.

“Well, that’s a major relief, darling,” Rarity said with a relieved smile.

“Vinyl, we wanted to ask you about the Number card you found,” Said Rainbow.

“If now is a good time,” added Sunset.

“Yeah, I got nothing to hide,” Said Vinyl with a shrug.

“I’ll just finish my shopping, and give you space,” Octavia said, before moving off to another area of the shop.

“So, what do you remember?” Asked Sunset.

“We were having another argument,” Vinyl began to explain, “But this time, Octavia made it personal. She said that my music was pure trash. That got me really mad, so I shouted at her, saying that we weren’t friends anymore. After that, I was packing up my stuff, and then, there it was, just lying on the floor, and for some reason, I just picked it up. You already know the rest.”

“Thanks Vinyl. I know this must be hard for you to talk about,” Said Sunset with a sad frown.

“I’m not going to lie about what I did that day. I can’t look at myself in the mirror,” Vinyl said with guilt in her voice.

“It’s not your fault Vinyl,” Sunset said as she put her hand on her shoulder. She knew in her heart she was to blame for what happened to Octavia.

“I think that's all we can gather here. How about we now go and see Vice-Principal Luna,” Suggested Applejack.

The other girls agreed. They thanked Vinyl and left the music shop.

They made their way to visit Solar Force and his aunts. As they approached the Principal and Vice-Principal’s house, they saw Solar, who was putting a traveling case in the boot of a car.

“Is he going somewhere?” Asked Fluttershy.

Rainbow Dash, using her geode, ran straight to Sailor’s side, catching him off guard. “Hey, pal, planning a little trip somewhere?” Rainbow asked with narrowed, suspicious eyes, and an intimidating voice.

“Umm, yes, we are, but-” Before he could continue, Rainbow brazenly interrupted.

“Mind if I have a look in this case?” she said, trying to grab it out of Solar’s hands.

“Yes, I do mind, Rainbow,” Solar Force said with an annoyed, defensive look, trying to fight Rainbow off. “Let go! That’s private!”

“RAINBOW DASH!” Yelled Sunset, marching up to Rainbow and standing between her and Solar. “WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING?!”

“Just doing my job, Sunset,” Replied Rainbow with a smug smirk.

“Uhh, Rainbow?” Said Applejack with a raised eyebrow, “You do know he’s with the squad, right?”

“He was acting suspicious!” Rainbow said, trying to defend herself.

“Alright, that’s it,” Applejack said with a huff, “you're coming with me.” With that said, she grabbed Rainbow by the collar and dragged her away.

“Hey! Let go, AJ!” Rainbow protested as she was dragged off.

After they were gone, Sunset turned to Solar and gave an apologetic smile. “Sorry about that, Solar,” she said, “I don’t know what got into her.”

“It's fine, Sunset,” Said an understanding Solar, “I understand how Rainbow can be sometimes.” He then said, “OK, look, I don’t have much time to talk. Me and my aunts are going away for a few days.”

“Oh, really? How long for?” Asked Sunset.

“Till Wednesday.” Answered Solar.

“Oh, I see,” Sunset said. “Oh, right, before I forgot,” Sunset reached into her bag. “Here’s your membership card.” Sunset then gave Solar his S.N.I.S Card.

“Uh, thanks Sunset,” Solar said as he took the card. “So, anyway, are you girls here to see aunt Luna?” He asked.

“Yes, we are, if it’s not too inconvenient.” Said Twilight.

“OK, sure,” Solar said, “But you’ll have to make it quick, we gotta get going.”

“We understand,” Sunset said. Solar then led Sunset, Twilight, Fluttershy and Pinkie into the house, while Applejack and Rarity were busy telling off Rainbow Dash.

As they entered the house, the two sisters came down the stairs, each carrying a suitcase.

“Hello, girls,” Said Celestia, “How can we help you?”

“We just need to ask Vice-Principal Luna about the Number Card she found,” Explained Sunset.

“Sister, you take your case out to the car, I’ll talk to Sunset and her friends,” Said Luna.

Luna led Sunset and her friends to the living room. “So, Vice-Principal, what do you remember about when you found your Number?” Sunset asked.

“Well, I remember I was tidying the office and the card was mixed with the papers. I picked it up, thinking it was my sister’s, and then... the rest is a blur. I’m sorry, that’s all I can remember,” Luna explained.

“That’s alright, thank you,” Sunset, “One more question. What were you thinking about just before you found the card?”

Luna thought hard for a moment. “Well,” She said slowly, “I remember thinking about how I missed the old days at Canterlot High. The days before, uh…” She paused, before saying, “before all this magik business started happening.”

“I see,” Sunset said, “Thank you for telling us everything Vice-Principal Luna.”

After that, Sunset and her friends leave and go to Fluttershy’s house to compare notes. Once they were settled in Fluttershy’s bedroom, and her mother had brought them all milk and cookies, Sunset began to speak.

“Okay, here’s what we know,” She said, “Vinyl found her Number under a table, Rarity’s Number was trapped in her sewing machine, and Vice-Principal Luna found her’s mixed with papers, and Zirconia Crown had her’s given to her. So, all of this means that they can apparently appear anywhere, at any moment.”

“So they could be anywhere?” Asked Fluttershy, shaking like a leaf as she pulled her hair over face.

“Even if they are all over the place, we can find them, and it’s because we are the Mane Seven!” Said a hyperactive Pinkie Pie.

“No, we're more like superheroes!” Said Rainbow arrogantly with a huge smirk, her eyes sparkling as she lived out her own fantasy of being a superhero.

(BONK!)

Applejack punched her in the head. “Stop spouting nonsense, Rainbow!” she shouted in annoyance.

“Ow ow ow!” Rainbow shouted indignantly, rubbing her head, “That’s so uncalled for!”

“It is when you don’t know when to shut your mouth,” Said an annoyed Applejack, rolling her eyes.

“She has a point darling. First you interrogated Solar Force, and now you think we are some silly superhero squad like something out of those ridiculous comic books you read. What’s going on in your head?” Rarity said, rubbing her forehead as she felt a migraine coming on.

“Come on, girls, we got these geodes, let's use them against the Number cards!” Exclaimed Rainbow.

“No, we can’t!” Sunset told her sternly, “If we started using our powers it could lead to an all out war. Anyone who gets a Number gets their own unnatural powers, you know this Rainbow. Look what happened with Vinyl when she found her’s. This isn't like a comic book, this is real life, and these Number cards are very dangerous and lethal.”

“Yeah, Rarity had mental control over the dresses she made, Vinyl got super strong, Zirconia turned some of us into dolls, and Vice-Principal Luna hypnotised most of the Student body, ” Said Pinkie Pie, counting each incident on her fingers. She then thought of something as she looked at Sunset. “Hey, Sunset, can you use the powers of the Numbers?” She asked.

Everyone looked at Sunset. “Hmm, I’m not sure,” Replied Sunset, putting her hand on her chin in thought, “I never tried to use the Number card’s powers.”

“Well, maybe you should try just to be safe, Sunset,” Said Chrysalis.

“OK, yeah, I’ll give it a try,” Replied Sunset as she nodded in agreement, “but not here. We need to go somewhere safe first.”

The girls all nodded, before they left Fluttershy's home.

Meanwhile, inside the world of the key, Cosmo is still exploring the machine.

“What is this machine? Why was it created? Who created it? I have too many questions and no answers,” She pondered to herself as she flew between the intricate mesh of gears and cogs like the inside of a giant clock.

Just then, She noticed a small rectangular object sticking out of one of the gears. It looked out of place, so she floated over to it to take a closer look. When she arrived at it, she stared at the small object. “What is that?”

She moved closer and she saw the Number 52 embedded on the gear above the object, causing her eyes to widen in shock. “A Number!” Cosmo then reached out her hand and a light glows from her palm. The Number then begins to glow as well, and the machine suddenly activates, as the gears begin to turn and move. “Fascinating. It would seem that this machine and Numbers are somehow linked.” The machine then came to stop once more. “I must find the other pedestals that the Numbers belong to, and I must inform Sunset of my discovery.” Cosmo says to herself as she continues her investigation.

Back with Sunset and the girls, they were out in the orchards at Sweet Apple Acres.

“Okay, just to Make sure I know what you're planning, you want to punch this brick wall?” Asked Applejack.

“Yep, with the power of Vinyl’s Number I’ll knock it down. Now, stand back, girls.” Sunset said as she approached the wall, raised her closed fist, and with all of her might, she punched the brick wall.

Through an X-ray, we see the bones in Sunset hand shatter.

Sunset slowly turned her head to look at the girls, her right eye twitching, and with a pain filled whimper, she said, “Help, please?” The girls all screamed in panic. “OW, MY HAND!!” Cried Sunset in agonony.

Several minutes later, Applejack finished wrapping up Sunset’s fingers in bandages. “There, that should do it.” she said.

“Thanks, Applejack,” Sunset said with a wince. “Ow, that still hurts.”

“Maybe trying to punch a brick wall with your bare hands was not the best idea you ever had,” Said Chrysalis, cringing slightly.

“Ooh! Ooh! Let’s try the mind control next!” Pinkie Pie jumped in.

“Alright, I’ll give it a try, but I doubt it’ll work,” Sunset said as she stood up. “Okay, so who am I going to brainwash?” Sunset looks around at the others to see who she was going to hypnotize.

“Fluttershy, you were the first person Vice-Principal Luna hypnotized. Do you remember how she did it?” Asked Twilight.

“I think she held my face and I stared into her eyes, I can't remember the rest,” Explained Fluttershy.

Sunset walked up to Fluttershy and placed her hands on either side of her face. “Like this?” She asked. The two girls then made eye contact, and Fluttershy blushed.

“Oh ho ho, two yuri moments in one day? Are you coming out, Sunset?” Said Rarity with a devilish smirk.

“And, we’re done here!” Shouted Sunset, backing away from a still blushing Fluttershy.

“Okay, I’d say it’s confirmed that Sunset can’t use the powers of the Numbers,” Said Chrysalis.

“Oh, come on, we still got the toy power to try out,” said Pinkie with a pout.

Applejack just looked at Pinkie with a raised eyebrow. “Look, sugarcube. Sunset punched a brick wall and broke at least 4 of her knuckles, and she just spent 5 seconds staring passionately into Fluttershy’s eyes, and nothing happened. I think the point has more than proven,” she said.

“It wasn’t passionate!” Sunset shouted again, blushing heavily. “Okay girls, moving on. I think we’re done for today. I’m going home to put my hand in some ice.” She finished.

“Yeah, I better get home and check on Spike,” Said Twilight.

“And I don’t want to miss my favourite show,” Said Pinkie.

With all this said, the girls headed back home. “I’ll try to call Mad Page and see if he can help you with your money problems, Rarity,” Sunset said to Rarity before they parted ways.

“That would be much appreciated darling,” Rarity thanked Sunset.

Later, Sunset and Chrysalis were back at their apartment. Sunset was sitting on her couch, with her hand now in a bowl of ice. “Ahhhhh, that’s better,” she said in relief.

Chrysalis then sits down next to Sunset before handing her some painkillers. “Here, take these,” She said, giving Sunset the pills.

“Thanks,” Sunset said, before swallowing the medication.

Just then, Cosmo appeared from the key, “Ah, Sunset, I have news on…” she paused as saw Sunset with her hand in the bowl of ice. “Did Something happen in my absence?” She asked.

“I’ll tell you later,” Sunset said as she looked up at her. “Did you want to tell me something?”

Chrysalis looked at with a confused look. “No, I didn’t… wait, are you talking to the invisble blue girl you told me about?” She asked.

“Yeah, Cosmo is here and she has something important to tell me,” Sunset replied.

“Alright, I’ll just leave you two alone. I’ll get something in for dinner. What do you feel like?” Chrysalis asked.

“Spaghetti,” Answered Sunset.

“Ohh, nice,” Chrysalis said with a smile, “we can have italian tonight.” With that said, Chrysalis left Sunset and Cosmo to have their conversation.

“Okay, Cosmo, what did you want to tell me? Did you find out something about the Numbers?” Asked Sunset.

“As a matter of fact, yes. It would seem that the machine inside your key has a connection to the Numbers,” Cosmo explained.

At this, Sunset sat-up, her interest fully peaked. “So the Numbers with your memories, and this machine inside my key have a connection. So this means that the two are linked to my key.” Sunset analyzed.

“It would indeed seem so,” agreed Cosmo. “We will need more Numbers in order for me to continue my investigation.”

“You're right, but that may be a challenge. Oh, I just remembered. I need to contact Mad Page,” Sunset said, before going to find the glass ball that Mad Page gave her.

“What is that glass ball for?” Asked Cosmo.

“Mad Page gave it to me, no idea how it works,” Replied Sunset. She then stared at the ball. “Hmm? Umm, Mad Page, can you hear me… or something?”

“You called?” said a voice from the ball.

“Is this how it works?” asked Sunset.

“Of course, I designed this ball like those… What do you call them? Oh, yes, cell phones you have in your world,” Explained Mad Page. “So, anyway, is there anything I can help you with?” He asked.

“Yes, my friend, Rarity, she has some problems in the financial department. So we were wondering if you had any loose change you could give her,” Explained Sunset.

“Of course, I’ve always had too much cash,” Said Mad Page. “I can spare your friend some extra cash.”

“Really? That’s great! Rarity will be so relieved. We’ll meet you tomorrow by the statue,” Said Sunset.

“Yep, I’ll see you then,” Replied Mad Page.

“Thanks, Mad Page,” Said Sunset gratefully. She put the glass ball down and leaned back into the cushions of the couch. “Well, that’s one load off my mind. For now, I’m just gonna relax, put my hand back in some more ice, and wait for Chryssy to make us dinner.”

“Very well,” said Cosmo. “In the meantime, I shall continue my investigation of the machine. Goodbye for now, Sunset.” With those words, she disappeared.

The next day, Sunset and the girls made there’re way to the school, where Mad Page was waiting for the girls to arrive beside the statue. The CMCs, who had also come to the school early, all greeted him, “Hello, girls, you're early,” Said Mad Page.

“Yeah, we were going to our favourite card shop, but they closed for the day,” Explained Applebloom with a disappointed look.

“Shame, too. I was hoping I would get lucky and get some super rare cards,” Said Scootaloo with an annoyed pout. “Figures that Applebloom would get all the good luck.

Sweetie Belle then looked at the time on her phone. “Hey girls, we'd better go. Classes will be starting soon,” She said. The three young teens said their goodbyes to Mad Page and ran inside the school to find their lockers.

Just then, Sunset and the others arrived at the school. “Hi Mad Page!” Yelled Pinkie Pie cheerfully.

“Hi girls! Hey, Rarity here’s the hand out,” Mad Page said, handing Rarity a small bag.

“Oh my!” Gasped Rarity in awe, her eyes going and sparkly as she opened the bag and saw what was inside. It was full of uncut gemstones.

“Ooh, pretty,” Said Pinkie with stars in her eyes.

“With this, you’ll get to keep your shop,” Said Mad Page.

“Oh, thank you, darling,” Said Rarity gratefully, “It’s such a dreadful shame I have to pawn these beautiful gems.”

As the conversation continued, the masked person watched with narrowed eyes, hiding out of sight. In her hand was a small deck of blank Duel Monsters cards. She picked up a card from the top of the deck and held it up in front of her mask. “This one will do,” She said, “and I’ll give you to the Tomboy.” She prepares her hand and throws the blank card. The card flies through the air, straight towards Rainbow Dash. However, just before the card could reach Rainbow Dash, Mad Page quickly raised his hand and snached the card from the air.

Everyone looked at him oddly after the odd move, ”Look, there’s someone there,” Said Fluttershy, pointing in the direction the card had come from.

They all looked, but saw no one.The masked person had disappeared like a phantom. “She’s gone! And nowhere to be found!” Gasped Pinkie Pie.

Sunset then turned her attention toward Mad Page. “Are you okay?” She asked.

“Perfectly fine,” He replied casually.

“Wait, why haven’t you gone crazy?” Asked Sunset again with a raised eyebrow. Mad Page looked at her with a deadpan look. “OK, yeah, that was a stupid question,” She said with a just as deadpan look.

“It did try to take control, but the thing is, I’m not in control of my own mind,” He explained with a wide, wild grin. “Here, give this to bluebird. You will need it,” He said handing the Number over to Sunset. Sunset took the Number from Madpage, and at that moment, Cosmo appeared from the key.

“Hello, bluebird, are your ears burning?” Mad Page asked her.

“I am here because I sensed a Number,” Cosmo replied.

“Yeah, here it is Cosmo, it was Mad Page’s,” Explained Sunset.

“Interesting. How did it not affect you like the others?” Cosmo asked Mad Page with interest.

“Simple, I’m not a Duelist, so it couldn’t control me,” Mad Page replied with a shrug. “Well, anyway, I’ve gotta go. I’ve got some errands to run. So I must leave you girls. Just look out for each other. She’s still out there.” He then wheeled himself backwards to the portal.

Once he was gone, Sunset put the Number in her deck box. Just then, the school’s PA system chimed, and they heard an unfamiliar voice. “Attention all students. Please report to the gymnasium for an important announcement.” After that, the girls all looked at each other, before making their way to the school gymnasium.

Inside the gym, all of the student body was sitting on the bleachers, waiting for the announcement. A man in a black three piece suit, somewhere in his 30s, stepped up to the podium.

“Thank you all for gathering so promptly. I know you all have school work to return to, so I’ll keep this brief. Principal Celestia and Vice-Principal Luna have both taken a short leave of absence. Until their return, the school will be under the supervision of Principal Cinch.” Needless to say, none of the students were happy with this arrangement, particularly Sunset and the girls.

The man stood aside, allowing Cinch to step forward to say a few words. “Now, I know that the relationship between us is an unfortunate and bumpy one. But rest assured, this is only until next Wednesday, when Principal Celestia and Vice-Principal Luna shall return. Let me also assure you, that while I am in charge, school business shall carry on as normal. There will be no change whatsoever.” Principal Cinch finished her speech and stepped away from the podium.

Once the assembly finished,Sunset and the girls went about their day like usual, while keeping an eye out for the masked person.

After school, the girls were now at Sugar Cube Corner, sitting at an 8 seater table that sat them all. “Okay, girls, I think it safe to say we’re not seeing that person any time soon,” said Rainbow after taking a big gulp of her soda.

“Don’t jinx it!” said Applejack sternly.

“Well regardless, I’m just surprised that Cinch is in charge of our school,” said an unhappy Rarity.

“I Know how you feel. I mean, it was because of her that I became Midnight.” Twilight agreed.

Sunset was not paying attention to her friends, her mind was on other matters. “Who was that person? Why did she throw that card at us? I keep getting more questions than answers.” Her mind was clouded with the puzzle.

“Sunset, darling are you alright?” asked Rarity.

“Hmm, what?” Sunset replied, “ sorry girls, my head is somewhere else.”

“Yeah, a lot happened today,” said Fluttershy.

“Then, once we are all done here, how about we all just go home and call it a day,” suggested Chrysalis.

Everyone agreed with her and all headed back home. Once they got back to their apartment, Sunset just decided to go to bed early, as her head felt like it was going to explode with everything that was going on her mind, along with trying to think of a way to deal with the Number cards. She quickly but fitfully fell asleep.

In her dream, Sunset found herself in an endless hallway of doors. “I’ve never had this dream before.” She said to herself. She opened one of the doors and inside was the best party that only Pinkie can throw.

“Whoo, this party is off the hook!” Shouted a girl that looked like a mashup of Sunset and Pinkie.

“Who are you?” Asked Sunset.

“Hay, what’s up? I’m the party girl side of you personally,” The strange looking girl replied with a wide happy grin, very similar to Pinkie Pie’s.

She stepped back into the hallway, out of the party, where it was quiet. “What is this place?” She asked.

“This is the subconscious,” The girl answered.

“So, why am I here?” Sunset asked again.

“You must have a lot on your mind, So you came here to find a solution to your problem.” The party girl replied.

“Hmm, maybe I might find something here. Thanks,” Said a grateful Sunset.

After that the Party Sunset waved goodbye and returned to her party. “Good luck!” She called back to Sunset cheerfully.

Sunset walked down the hallway opening each door. Behind each door, she was introduced to a girl who was another mashup of herself and one of her friends, who represented a different side of her personality. She had a different kind of fun with each one she met, taking care of some animals with her kind side, playing some soccer with her sporty side, etc.

After meeting yet another one of her counterparts, the Twilight one, who represented her logical side, she knew that there must be another reason why she was here other than simply meeting her other selves. “As fun as this is, I’m not finding any kind of solution to my problems,” She said to herself. As she moved on, she then stopped as she saw a door that was different from the others, as it seemed to be glitching, like in an old video game. “That’s weird. What’s going on here?” She slowly approached the door, reached out her hand, turned the handle and the door opened. Her eyes widened in shock as she saw a beautiful, galaxy like world. “What is this place?” she asked in wonder, but then, suddenly, she clutched her hands to her head as was in a great deal of pain. “My..My head!” She cried as she fell to her knees, and then, she was surrounded by a loud beeping noise as everything went white.

Sunset was suddenly jolted awake when she hit the floor after falling out of bed. “Ow! My head,” She groaned as she rubbed her head.

“Well, that’s one way to wake up in the morning,” Said Chrysalis as she came up the steps to Sunset’s loft, seeing her roommate lying on the floor. She walked over to the bed and helped Sunset get up from the floor. “Are you okay?” she asked with concern in her voice, “You were talking in your sleep.”

“Was I? Sorry, did I keep you up?” Asked Sunset apologetically.

“No, but you were saying some weird stuff,” Replied Chrysalis.

“Yeah, I had a strange dream,” said Sunset.

“What about?” Chrysalis asked.

“I was in an endless hallway with countless doors on each side, and I found this one door that was different from the others and then...” Sunset explained, before trailing off as she groaned again, as her head was still hurting from last night’s dream.

“Maybe you should stay home for today,” suggested Chrysalis.

“No, I’ll be fine,” Sunset reassured her roommate.

Chrysalis was not confident, but she wouldn't argue with Sunset. “OK, just don’t push yourself,” She said.

“I will, thanks,” Sunset said, before she and Chrysalis got ready for the day, her headache slowly fading away.

Later, they met up with the other girls at the school and were relieved to see that everything seemed normal.

“It seems Cinch was telling the truth,” Said Applejack.

“Yes, that seems to be the case, but we can’t just let our guard down yet,” Said Twilight, speaking from experience. The other girls nodded and murmured their agreement.

Just then, the school bell rang to begin the school day. “We’ll continue our conversation later,” Said Sunset. The girls nodded and headed off to their classes.

Later that day, in the photography class, the students were learning about the history of photography.

The teacher pointed to the board as he gave his lecture. “When cameras were first introduced, people believed that a camera could steal the soul of whoever had their picture taken. So, most religions classed the Camera as the devil's work. But, nowadays, everyone knows that a camera captures a moment of time and freezes it on paper.” Before he could continue, the bell rang. “Okay everyone, tomorrow we’re going to take pictures of landscapes. if you don’t have a camera, we can lend you one,” He said as the students left the room. He then spoke up as one blue skinned girl was about to leave the room. “Photo Finish, can I have a word?”

Photo Finish paused, before approaching her teacher. “Is there something wrong?” She asked in her heavy accent.

“No, of course not. I have a meeting now, so can you put film in the cameras for tomorrow?” He asked her.

“Yes, I can put new films in the cameras,” Photo Finish agreed, The teacher leaves Photo Finish. She got started on changing the films for the cameras. Soom, she was on the last camera. She opened the back to change the film, when she paused at what she saw inside. There was a blank Duel Monsters card inside. “Who put this here?” She wondered as she removed the card. As soon as she touched it, a dark mist engulfed her, while she grasped her head and groaned, as a demonic voice could be heard in her head.

“Yes, Photo Finish! Let the Number take hold!”

The Number 25 appeared on her check, and with an evil smile, she said, “Yes! I will take the most perfect pictures!”

Just then, Wallflower Blush entered the photography room. “Hi Photo, are we still on for the photo shoots?” She asked.

Photo turned to her, pointing her camera at her, and with a flash from the camera, Wallflower disappeared.“Yes we are,” Photo said with a sinister voice, as she picked up a picture off the ground and hung it up on the wall. The picture showed a surprised looking Wallflower, who was now trapped inside the image.

Later that day, Principal Cinch was in the Principal's office going through some paperwork. She paused to look at the time. “Hmm, 12:30, and it’s quiet,” she said thoughtfully, listening carefully for any noise outside the office door, but she could hear nothing. “The students should be heading for their lunch by now.” With this thought, she got up from her desk and walked out of the office. The hallway was empty and some lockers were left open. Worksheets and books were also on the floor. “What is the meaning of this? And where are the students?” Principal Cinch started to look for the students, but everywhere she looked, all she saw were empty hallways.“What's going on here? No students or teacher’s anywhere,” She said to herself.

Sunset was on her way out of the restrooms. “That’s better,” She said with a happy smile, before pulling out her phone. “Hmm, no new messages.” She tried to call Twilight. “No answer, lets try Rainbow.” She tries to call her the rest of her friends, but there is no answer. She then looked up and noticed that the hallway was empty. “This is strange. Where is everyone?” Sunset started to look for the other students. She walked past the science room, looked inside, seeing a bunsen burner which still lit and left unattended. “Now I’m getting concerned,” She said as she entered the room and put out the burner.

Just then, Principal Cinch walked past the science room, looked in and saw Sunset. “Miss Shimmer, where is everyone?” She asked.

“I don’t know. I just left the restroom and there was nobody in sight,” Sunset said.

They then both turned as they heard someone call out. “Hello! Where is everyone?”

“That sounds like Bon Bon,” Said Sunset, and she and Chinch went to find her. As they searched for her, a snapping sound was heard.

“Where is she?” asked Principal Cinch.

Sunset looked around and saw a hair pin on the floor. “This is one of the hair pins,” She said as she picked up the pin.

“So she was here, but where is she now?” asked Principal Cinch.

“I can answer that, but could you let me out first?” Said a male voice from inside a locker.

Sunset walked up to the locker. “What is the code?” She asked.

“5 left, 8 right, 2 left,” He replied.

Sunset entered the code into the lock, and pulled the locker door open, and a young man with dark skin, gray hair and light gray eyes, wearing a black hoodie, stepped out with a grateful look on his face. “Thanks,” He said as he stretched.

“Your welcome. Why were you in your locker?” Sunset asked.

“I was pushed in,” He answered.

“Now, please do tell us about Miss Bon Bon,” Asked Principal Cinch.

“I saw her looking for the others like I was, but then there was a flash, like from a camera, and then she was just... gone,” He explained.

“Sounds familiar,” Sunset thought to herself. “We should check the Photography room,” she suggested. “He said he heard a camera. It’s the most logical destination,” Sunset explained.

“She has a point,” Said the boy. Cinch agreed and they made their way to the Photography room.

When they arrived at the Photography room, they walked inside, only to see that no one was inside. They looked around the room. “Umm, guys, these pictures over here. They are moving,” Said the boy with a shocked tone.

Principal Chich and Sunset looked at the photos, and they’re eyes widened in shock as well. “They are moving,” Gasped Principal Cinch. Indeed, the pictures were moving, and besides that, they were pictures of the missing students, including, much to Sunset’s own shock, all of seven of her friends, including Chrysalis. Before anyone could say anything else, they heard a sinister chuckling, causing them to turn around to see a smirking Photo Finish, who held up her camera and used it to take their photograph. The flash was so bright, it blinded Sunset. When she opened her eyes, both Principal Cinch and the hooded boy had vanished. She looked down at the ground and saw two new photographs, each with a newly trapped boy and Principal Cinch. She picked up the pictures. “So, you're the one behind this,” She said, looking angrily at Photo Finish.

“Yes, and I’ll add your photo to my collage,” She replied with a sinister grin. Sunset looked closely at Photo Finish and saw the Number 25 on her check.

Just then, Cosmo appeared from the key. “I thought I sensed a Number,” she said.

At that moment, in her head, Photo Finish heard the demonic voice once again. “Take her Numbers! Take her key!” She then gave Sunset a wicked look. “Sunset Shimmer, I challenge you to a Duel!” She declared, placing a modified D-Pad, which had a built in camera, on her arm and activating it.

“Alright, I accept your challenge,” Sunset replied with narrowed eyes, readying her own D-Pad.

They each put on and activated their Duel Gazers, as the virtual Dueling Field formed around them.

Augmented Reality Vision Link Established.

“DUEL!” Both girls yelled.

LP: Sunset Shimmer: 4000 / Photo Finish: 4000.

“As the challenger,” Said Photo Finish, “I will go first!”

“First, second, whatever,” Sunset said back, “Doesn’t matter to me. Go ahead.”

Photo smirked. “You will regret those words,” she said, before drawing her first card. “I Draw!”

Sunset then took a quick glance at her opening hand, and was pleased with what she saw. “Good,” she thought, “I have both Goblindbergh and Gagaga Magician. That means I can use Goblidbergh’s effect to summon Magician, and then, because they’re both level 4, I can overlay them to XYZ summon Utopia right away.” She then looked back across at Photo as she made her first move.

“I play one card face down,” Photo said, before playing another card from her hand. “I now activate the Spell card, Card Destruction!”

“What?!” Sunset said in shock.

“It would appear that she already anticipated that you had a favourable opening hand,” Stated Cosmo, “I believe that you may need to work on, what do you call it, your poker face?”

“Bite me, Casper,” Sunset muttered under her breath.

“I take it by your reaction, you know what this card does,” Photo said, still smirking, “We both discard every card in our hands, and then we Draw the same number of cards we discarded from our decks.”

“Yeah, yeah, I know,” Sunset said crossly, as she proceeded to send all of the cards she had to the Graveyard, before Drawing five new cards. Photo did the same, discarding the four she had left in her hand and drawing four more cards. Sunset then looked at her new hand, and grimaced. “Oh no. Almost all these cards are useless, and none of them are monsters,” She thought.

“I now set one monster,” Photo continued, a vertical face down card appearing in front of her other set card. “That ends my turn.”

“Then it’s my turn!” Sunset declared with determination. “I Draw!” She drew her next card, and frowned at it, before putting it in her hand. “Oh, this is just great,” She thought in annoyance, “another Trap Card I can’t use.”

“It would seem you are having quite the bad luck at this time, Sunset,” stated Cosmo as she looked over the cards in fiery haired girls hand.

“Quiet, blue girl, I’ve got this,” Sunset muttered.

“As you wish,” Cosmo agreed.

Sunset then looked carefully at her hand, trying hard to come with anything she could do. “OK, there might be a way out of this. If I set that Jar Of Avarice Trap, I might be able to replace my hand with something useful. And I can at least protect myself with this Sakuretsu Armor Trap,” she thought, before doing just that. “I set two face down Cards and end my turn!”

“It must be sad not being able to set up a proper defense,” Photo said mockingly. “It’s also too bad for you that the same can’t be said for me. I activate my face down card, Call Of The Haunted! With this card, I can bring back one monster from my Graveyard, and I choose the monster I sent there last turn, Trance The Magic Swordsman!” A tall warrior in armor appeared on her side of the field. He wore armor, had a purple cape, and carried a long sword with magical runes on it.

Trance The Magic Swordsman: Attribute: EARTH: Type: Spellcaster: Level 6: ATK: 2600 / DEF: 200

“And with that, it’s now my turn. I Draw!” Photo said, drawing her next card. “And now, let’s take a look at your graveyard.” She then used the screen on her Dpad to check the cards in Sunset’s graveyard. She saw two cards that stood out to her, Gagaga Magician and Goblindbergh. “Well, look at this, you could have easily summoned your own Number with these two monsters. And one of your favorites too. I think I’ll help myself to him,” she said, looking at Sunset with a mocking grin.

“And how do you plan on doing that?” Sunset said back with a glare.

“Like this,” Photo said, “I activate the Spell Card, Monster Reborn, and I’ll use it to bring back your Gagaga Magician!” Sunset could only watch as one of her favourite monsters appeared on Photo’s field.

Gagaga Magician: Attribute: DARK: Type: Spellcaster: Level 4: ATK: 1500 / DEF: 1000

“And now, I activate Gagaga Magician’s effect and change his Level from Level 4 to Level 6!”

Gagaga Magician: Level 4 > Level 6

“I know what’s coming now,” Sunset thought.

“I now overlay my two Level 6 monsters to build the overlay network!” Photo went on, smirking darkly, as the number 25 appeared on her right cheek. Both monsters turned into purple and orange streaks of light, shooting up into the air before disappearing into a galaxy like portal. “Behold! A photographer's greatest weapon! I XYZ Summon Number 25: Force Focus!” Above the field, what looked like a giant box appeared, with a huge camera lens on the front. It suddenly unfolded, becoming bigger, and revealing a bunch of smaller lenses all across it, the number 25 appearing under the largest lens.

Number 25: Force Focus: Attribute: Light: Type: Machine: Rank 6: ATK: 2800 / DEF: 2400

So, this is her Number,” Said Cosmo, “Force Focus.”

“And she used one of my monsters to summon it,” Sunset hissed, grinding her teeth and scowling. “How dare she.”

“Calm yourself, Sunset,” Cosmo said softly, “I will do you no good at the present time.”

Sunset took a breath to calm herself. “Your right. Getting worked up won’t get me anywhere,” She said. “Besides, if she attacks me with her Number, I can get rid of it with my Sakuretsu Armor Trap Card,” She thought to herself.

“And just in case you were thinking of using one of your face down cards to get rid of Force Focus, I now activate the Spell Card, Giant Trunade!” Photo suddenly declared. “With this card, I can send all Spell and Trap cards on the Field back to our hands.” With that said, a huge gust of wind blew across the field, sending both of Sunset’s facedown cards back to her hand, much to her annoyance. “Now that the coast is clear, I move to my Battle Phase,” Photo continued, “Now, Force Focus! Direct Attack!” The giant camera focused it’s huge lens before firing an intense beam of energy at her.

“Brace yourself!” Called Cosmo.

All Sunset could do was brace herself and try to endure the attack, grunting loudly as it struck home.

Sunset Shimmer: LP: 4000 - 2800 = 1200

As the attack dissipated, Sunset fell to one knee, clutching her chest, and breathing heavily.

“Are you all right, Sunset?” Asked Cosmo.

“I’ve… been… worse…” Sunset said as she struggled back to her feet, “Oh, geez, that still hurt, though.”

“I think I’ve made you sefer enough for now,” Photo said with a sadistic smirk, “I end my turn!”

“About… time…” Sunset huffed. “My Turn! I Draw! Come on! Give a Monster!” She drew her next card, and frowned at it. It was a monster, but not what she had been hoping for. “Kurivolt?! What am I supposed to do with this?!” She thought hard, trying to think of anything she could do. “I could summon it and use it’s effect to get rid of one of Force Focus’s Overlay Units, but then I would just lose on her next turn, and can’t play it in Defense Mode, because they got rid of that method years ago, meaning I would have to set it, so I can’t use it’s effect. What can I do?”

Cosmo could also see that Sunset was in trouble. There had to be something she could do. As she thought about the situation, she suddenly felt a pulse coming from Sunset’s deck box. “Wait, could that be…” She says, before turning to Sunset. “Sunset, I believe our salvation may lie with the new Number.”

“What?” Sunset asked. “New Number? Do you mean the one that Mad Page gave us?”

“Yes,” Cosmo said. “Have you taken a look at the Number since you took possession of it?”

“Hm, no,” Sunset said thoughtfully. She then used the screen on her Dpad to check the cards in her Extra Deck, but when she saw the new card, she frowned in confusion, as the only stats it showed her was its Rank, which was only Rank 1. “What? I don’t get it? Why is it only showing me it’s Rank and nothing else? Not even it’s name?”

“Could it be…?” Said Cosmo.

“Be what?” asked Sunset.

“That this Number is not fully formed yet,” Replied Cosmo.

“Not fully formed?” Sunset asked. “Why would that be?”

“Sunset, you must Summon that card in under to complete it,” Cosmo said seriously.

“What?” Sunset said, eyeing Cosmo strangely, “If the card’s incomplete I can’t use it, right?”

“I believe that the reason the Number has not fully formed is because it was never used until now,” Cosmo explained. “As soon as you play it, it’s true form will be revealed.”

“Alright,” Sunset nodded, “I trust you.”

“What is taking you so long!” Photo snapped impatiently. “Hurry up and make your move already!”

“I was just about to!” Sunset shot back. “I Summon Kurivolt!” On her field, a small, round, black monster appeared,with small red feet, round orange and brown eyes, a red lightning bolt on its forehead, and metal spike for a tail.

Kurivolt: Attribute LIGHT: Type: Thunder: Level 1: ATK: 300 / DEF: 200

“And now that I’ve summoned it, I can activate its effect!” Sunset continued. “Kurivolt can get rid of an Overlay Unit from any XYZ monster on the field, and look at that, you have one, and it has two Overlay Units. So the monster I choose is Force Focus!”

“I’m afraid you’ll have to think again, mein liebe,” Photo interrupted, “For I now activate the effect of Force Focus! By using one Overlay Unit, I can negate the effect of one of your monsters until the end of this Turn!”

“What?!” Sunset shouted.

“And the Overlay Unit I will use will be your Gagaga Magician. You may have him back now. He has served his purpose,” Photo went on, pulling Gagaga Magician from underneath Force Focus, and tossing it back to Sunset. Sunset caught the card with a scowl, and took a look at it, before depositing it in her Graveyard. Force Focus then absorbed one of the two orbs of light circling it, and then focused it’s enormous lens on Kurivolt. The click of a shutter was heard, and there was a blinding flash, causing Sunset to cover her eyes with her arm. Once she could see again, she looked down at her monster, as it had its eyes squeezed shut. Once it opened them, they became swirls, and little golden stars floated around it’s head, as it shook from side to side. “Oh, is the poor little thing dizzy?” Photo asked in a fake sweet tone.

“I’ll make you dizzy in a minute,” Sunset muttered under her breath. “Great! That move was my best bet. What do I do now?” She thought to herself bitterly. “Wait,” she thought as she looked over her hand, “I still have Sakuretsu Armor and Jar Of Avarice. And all the other cards in my hand are all Spell cards. Wait, that’s it! It’s my only chance. I’m going to have to bluff my way out.” She then picked up all the cards in her hand. “I sure hope this works. Because if it doesn't I’m finished.” She then said out loud, “I place 5 Trap Cards facedown!”

“Did you say 5 Trap Cards?!” Photo asked in a shocked tone.

“Wait? What?” Sunset said. “Did I say 5 Traps? I meant to say 5 facedown cards. Just forget I said that,” she said with a shrug of her shoulders. “Well, anyway, that ends my Turn!”

“About time!” Photo said. “My Turn! I Draw!” She drew her next card, and was ready to launch another attack with Force Focus to finish Sunset off, but then she hesitated. “Wait?!” She thought with worry, “It may have just been a slip of the tongue, but what if she really did lay down 5 Trap Cards? I will be walking straight into a trap.” She then looked down at her hand, and smirked at what she saw. “Or maybe not,” she thought before announcing, “I place 1 card face down and end my Turn!”

“What? You’re not going to attack me with your big, all powerful Number Card?” Sunset asked teasingly. “Oh well, it’s my turn again. I Draw!” She drew her next card, before saying, “Still I don’t need you to attack me to play this card. I activate the Trap Card-”

Before she said the card's name, Photo, in a sudden panic, shouted, “Oh no you don’t! I activate my own Trap Card, Dark Bribe! This will negate your…” She stopped and stared as Sunset’s face down card was revealed. “Jar Of Avarice?!”

“Oh, would you look at that,” Sunset said with a smile, “You must have been desperate to activate that card now. And, don’t forget, as the cost for playing that card, I get to draw a new one from my deck, so thanks.” She then proceeds to do just that, while Photo scowled indignantly.

“You… you… you tricked me!” She shouted accusingly.

“I didn’t trick you,” Sunset said with a smirk, “I mean, it’s not my fault you have an itchy trigger finger.” Photo growled furiously, grinding her teeth so hard she was practically sanding them down. “Now, like I was saying, it’s my turn,” Sunset continued, looking at her new card, seeing she had drawn another Kurivolt. “Oh, well, look at that,” She thought, “I might be able to pull this off after all.” She then announced, “I now summon another cute little Kurivolt!” A second Kurivolt appeared in front of her next to the other one. “And I’ll activate his effect, which I’m sure I don’t need to remind you of.”

“Go ahead, try it,” Photo said with an evil chuckle, “I can just negate its effect using the effect of Force Focus again!”

“Are you sure you want to do that?” Sunset asked, “I mean, you already used up your Dark Bribe, which was your best defence against any of my Traps. What if you activate your monster's effect and I’m able to get rid of it with one of my Trap cards? You wouldn’t be able to protect it this time.”

Just like before, Photo hesitated. “Is she trying to trick me again, or does she really have a way to destroy Force Focus?” She thought about what kind of cards Sunset might have on the field, before her eyes widened in realization. “Wait! Could she have played a Divine Punishment?!”

While Photo was panicking, Sunset took her chance. “I now activate Kurivolt’s effect! I’m sure I don’t need to remind you about what it does, so I’ll just get rid of your monster’s second Overlay Unit!” With that, Kurivolt let out a bolt of electricity, which snared Force Focus’ last Overlay Units, and pulled it away. “With that done, I can now summon another Kurivolt from my Deck!” The little orb of light vanished, only to be replaced with a second Kurivolt appeared next to the first one. “And now that all three of my Kurivolt’s, I will now overlay two of them!” The two of three little monsters turned into streaks of yellow light, as a galaxy-like portal appeared in front of her. “I sure hope this works,” she thought, before she announced, “I XYZ summon a new monster! Number 20: Madgic!” What emerged from the portal was a large white top hat. A long red curtain dropped down from inside it, before a pair of white gloved hands, pulled the curtain open, revealing it to actually be a long cape, worn by a tall, thin man in a white, flamboyant magicians’ outfit. The top hat covered the top half of his face, except for two little holes above the brim for his eyes.

Number 20: Madgic: Rank: 1: Attribute: Light: Type Spellcaster/XYZ: ATK: 500 / DEF: 500

“What?! Another Number?!” Photo cried in shock, before taking full notice of it’s sats and smiling wickedly. “Still though that’s your big monster? Even though it is a Number, it still only has 500 ATK points! Not to mention he looks completely ridiculous!” She laughed out loud as Sunset just rolled her eyes.

“Laugh all you want,” She said, “There’s more to this monster than just his appearance, or his attack points.”

“Aww, well aren't you the sweetest things,” Madgic suddenly said as he turned and around and pinched Sunset’s cheek.

“Whaaat!” Sunset and Cosmo both said in unison.

“What, you've never seen a talking Duel Monster before?” Madgic said, floating on his side, propping up his head with his arm. “I mean, it’s kinda mandatory in this game.”

“Intriguing,” Cosmo said with interest.

“I just summoned a talking Duel Monster,” Sunset muttered to herself, “why am I surprised at this?”

“What are you muttering about you simpleton?” Photo asked with an impatient scowl.

“None of your business!” Sunset shot back.

“Curiosity aside, we must prevail here, Sunset,” Cosmo said. “I believe this new asset of ours may be our best chance of doing so.”

“Excuse me,” Said Madgic, who was still floating on his side, “but your so-called ‘asset’ does have a name, Casper.”

“Hmm,” Sunset said with a slight smirk, “I like him. Now, lets see what he can actually do.” She used the screen on her Dpad to check Madgic’s effects, and smiled at what she saw. “Yeah, this could be useful.” She then announced, “I activate Madgic’s effect! By spending one Overlay Unit, I can take one Spell Card form either Graveyard and add it to my hand! And the Spell I choose is Monster Reborn! Your Monster Reborn to be exact!”

Madgic raised his cane and caught one of the little orbs of light with the end of it, and then drew a circle in the air in front of him, which he reached his hand into, and pulled out the said Monster Reborn card, before turning and handing the card to Sunset. “Here you go malady,” he said.

“Why thank you, goodsir,” Sunset said, smiling at his manors.

“Just a quick warning,” Madgic said, “Don’t go using that Card just yet. It won’t be fun.”

“Don’t worry, I don’t plan to use it. At least not yet,” Sunset said, “But I will do this. I now place one card face down!” She placed the newly obtained card on the field, filling all five of her Spell/Trap Zone spaces. “I now move to my Battle Phase! Madgic! Attack Force Focus!”

“Nothing personal 25,” Madgic said, “But I have to do as the lady says.” His left hand goes up into his sleeve, as he uses his right hand to cock it like a gun, before shooting a barrage of playing cards straight toward the giant camera.

“Are you mad?!” Photo shouted, “Your little party magician only has 500 ATK points, and my Force Focus has 2800! As soon as that attack hits, you lose!”

But Sunset just smirked at her. “Oh, did I not mention Madgic’s other effect? You see, during my Battle Phase, he gains 500 ATK points for every Spell or Trap card on the field.”

“WHAT?!” Photo screamed.

Number 20: Madgic: ATK: 500 + 500 x 5 = 3000

The barrage of cards hit home, shredding the giant camera to pieces.

Photo Finish: LP: 4000 - 200 = 3800

“NEIN!!!” Photo screamed at the loss of her Number. “HOW DARE YOU, YOU LITTLE SWINE!” She proceeded into a full blown furious rant, which Sunset couldn’t understand, because it was all in German, and Sunset didn’t know German.

“I’m… not getting a word of this,” She said with a raised eyebrow.

“You can not understand her?” asked Cosmo. “I can still understand her perfectly. It would seem that I am able to hear any language as if it were english.”

“Really?” Sunset said, “Cool.”

“Indeed,” Cosmo nodded.

“So what is she saying?” Sunset asked.

“I think it is best you do not know,” Cosmo said simply.

“Ok,” Sunset said, before saying, “I end my turn!”

“I swear I will make you pay,” Photo growled, “I DRAW!!” She drew her next card, took one look at it, and laughed maniacally, before announcing, “I summon Skilled Dark Magician!” A tall man holding a staff and wearing wizards robes appeared on the field.

Skilled Dark Magician: Level 4: Attribute: DARK: Type: Spellcaster: ATK 1900 / DEF 1700

“This is where it ends for you!” Photo shouted in triumph. “I move to my Battle Phase! Skilled Dark Magician! Attack her Kurivolt!” The spellcaster launched a spell at Sunset’s small monster. “It’s all over!”

“I don’t think so!” Sunset retorted. “I activate the Trap Card, Sakuretsu Armor!”

“WHAT?!” Photo screamed. All she could do was watch as her only monster was easily destroyed. “But… but… but I thought…” she stuttered in disbelief.

“You thought I was just bluffing,” Sunset said with a smirk. “Well, I was, and I wasn’t.”

“NEIN!! NEIN, NEIN, NEIN, NEIN!!” Photo screamed, stomping her foot in rage at being so easily deceived. Finally, she fell to her knees, her head slumped, as she muttered in a broken voice, “I end my turn.”

“Well, then, it’s my turn,” Sunset said confidently. “I Draw!” She drew her next card and smiled. “Alright, time to end this. I now activate the Spell Card I took from you. Monster Reborn! And I will use it to bring back my Gagaga Magician!” Her faithful spellcaster reappeared in front of her. “And now it’s time to bring out his favorite playmate. I summon Gagaga Girl!” A female spellcaster in similar robes appeared next to her male counterpart.

Gagaga Girl: Level 3: Attribute: DARK: Type: Spellcaster: ATK 1000 / DEF 800

“And since Gagaga Magician and Gagaga Girl are now on the field together, I can activate Gagaga Girl’s effect! She can target my Magician and change her level to match his own!”

Gagaga Girl: Level 3 > Level 4

“And now that they are both Level 4, I Overlay both of them!” The spellcasters turned into steaks of purple light and flew up into the air, both disappearing into a galaxy-like portal. “Finally! The moment I've been waiting for! I XYZ summon Number 39: Utopia!” At last, the powerful warrior had finally made his appearance.

Number 39: Utopia: ATK 2500

“Hey, Number 39,” Magic said with a grin, “You're looking good.”

“Alright, boys, let's finish this,” Sunset said with a smile. “Utopia, the first attack is yours. Go! Rising Sun Slash!” With the order given, Utopia unsheathed his twin swords and lunged toward the still kneeling Photo. But as the attack was about to his home, Utopia suddenly paused. It seemed to look down at the broken young photographer with what may have been pity, before simply tapping her on the head with the back of one of his swords.

“I do not want your pity,” Photo sulked.

Photo Finish: LP: 3800 - 2500 = 1300

“Geez,” Sunset said with a frown. “Now I almost feel sorry for doing this.”

“I hear you,” Said Madgic.

“Just make it quick, OK, Madgic,” Sunset said.

Number 20: Madgic: ATK 500 + 2000 = 2500

“You got it,” Madgic said, before zipping across the field, and stopping in front of Photo. “Sorry to do this to you,” He said, before booping her on the nose. Photo didn’t respond.

Photo Finish: LP 1300 - 2500 = 0

Winner: Sunset Shimmer

With the Duel over, Cosmo then reached out her hand, and an orb of light flouted out of Photo’s chest, and over to her. Upon taking hold of the newest Number Card, a new memory returned to her, in which she remembered painting a picture. “This memory, it would seem, was a happy one,” She said wistfully to herself.

With Photo defeated, and her Number taken from her, all of the Photos victims were suddenly freed from the photographs they were trapped in, returning them to where they all were when Photo first trapped them, leaving them confused as to what had happened to them. Cinch and the hooded boy also returned back to where they were taken. “Young man, do you care to explain any of this?” Cinch asked.

“Uh, not really Principal Cinch,” The hooded boy said hesitantly.

Back in the Photography room, Photo regained consciousness. “What happened? Did I do something wrong?” She asked, rubbing her forehead in confusion.

“That's what I want to know!” Said an angry Cinch as she stormed into the room. “I want answers this instant!”

Sunset then approached Cinch. “It was Magic,” She said simply.

“Oh, I see,” She said, rolling her eyes and rubbing her forehead. “I should have know.”

“So, what happens now?” Asked the hooded boy as he walked in.

“Simple, we just brush it under the rug,” Sunset answered, “It’s for the best.”

Principal Cinch then looked at the time. “Due to the time, I think it would be best if I just send everyone home,” She said, which was very out of character for her.

“Are you serious?” Asked Sunset, surprised.

“Yes, after literally becoming a picture, I think I have had enough for one day,” She replied, before turning and leaving the Photography room.

Sunset just stared after her for a moment, before walking over to Photo Finish and kneeling down in front of her. “Are you okay?” She asked.

“I think so, I just can’t remember what I’ve been doing until now,” Replied Photo Finish with a very confused look.

“Don’t worry, you’ll be fine,” Sunset reassured her, before asking, “Do you remember how you got that Number?”

“I was replacing the film in the cameras when I found this blank Duel Monsters card inside one of them. I pulled it out, and then, there was this pain in my head. Everything after that is a blur,” Photo explained.

“Will you be alright getting home?” Sunset asked.

“Ja, I will be alright,” Photo said as she got back to back to her feet.

“Alright, we’ll just let you go home so you can try and get some rest,” Said Sunset.

With that said, Sunset and the hooded boy left the Photography room.

“Is it like this all the time here?” The boy asked.

“Not all the time, just most time’s,” Replied Sunset with a shrug.

They were just making they’re way to the school entrance, when Chrysalis came running down the hallway.

“Sunset! Are you alright?” She asked in a worried tone.

“Yeah, don’t worry, I’m fine,” Sunset said reassuringly, “And, I’ve taken care of it.”

“Well, always you’re alright,” Chrysalis said with a relieved sigh.

The hooded boy then looked at Chrysalis, and suddenly gave a big smile. “Hey, Chrysalis, you're going here now?” He said with excitement.

Chrysalis gasped. “Shadow Dancer! It’s been so long!” She said happily, giving him a hi-five.

“You two know each other?” Asked Sunset in surprise.

“Yeah! Me and Shadow went to school together,” Chrysalis explained with a smile.

“Hey, I got to run. Let’s get coffee and catch up some time,” He said.

“Yeah, that would be great. I’ll call you some time,” She replied.

“That would be great. See you later,” Shadow said before he left.

“Well, that’s great, you got a date,” Said Sunset with a giggle and teasing smile.

“Very funny,” Said Chrysalis, rolling her eyes.

“Anyway, are you alright?” Asked Sunset.

“Yeah, I'm fine,” Chrysalis replied.

“Good. I’ll see you at home, ok,” Sunset said, before heading outside.

Outside the school, Sunset met up with the girls and explained to them everything that had happened.

“I can’t believe that Cinch would do that,” Gasped a shocked Twilight.

“I know, isn’t it fantastic?” Said a super happy Pinkie Pie.

“Well, I’m not complaining,” Said Rainbow with a pleased smile.

“It was nice of her to let us go home,” Said Fluttershy with a smile and a nod.

“Well, I don’t know about you girls, but I’m almost down for the count here,” Sunset said, rubbing her eyes sleepily.

“Agreed, darling,” Said Rarity, “This girl for one certainly needs her beauty sleep.”

“Alright, I guess I’ll see you all tomorrow,” Sunset said before heading off. The other girls murmured theiyr're own goodnight, and headed off as well.

The next few days flew by, and Celestia and Luna soon returned back to the school.

“Did anything happen in my absence?” Celestia asked Cinch.

“Yes, there was an incident with Photo Finish involving one of those Number Cards,” Replied Cinch.

“I see. Was there any damages to the school?” Asked Celetia.

“No, there was no damage. And Miss Shimmer was able to put a stop to it,” Cinch replied.

“That's good to hear, and I’ll give my report to the Board. You might get a new job with education,” Said Celestia with an approving nod.

“Yes, thank you,” Cinch said with a nod. “By the way, in your absence, I took the liberty of looking at the school finances. I am afraid you have a serious problem,” She said in a serious tone

“I see. How bad does it look?” Celestia asked, looking worried.

“This is no trivial matter. I am afraid your school may face being shut down,” Cinch went on, “However, there is a solution that can fix your finances before it is too late. Wisdom Academy is about to hold their annual Wisdom Games. And the winning school will be given a substantial cash prize.”

Celetia thought very carefully about the Wisdom Games. “Why are you telling me this?” She asked.

“You are doing me a favour by helping me. I am merely returning the gesture,” Explained Cinch simply.

“Thank you. I know we rarely see eye to eye. But I am truly grateful that you told me about the Wisdom Games. You may have very well saved this school,” Celetia said gratefully, before she and Cinch shook hands. After that, Cinch left the school, and Celetia began her research into Wisdom Academy.

Meanwhile, at the amusement park, the masked person reported to her master.

“Sir, I have news,” She said, kneeling in front of him.

“Make it quick, my favourite show is about to begin,” He replied with an impatient frown.

“I have tried to give a Number to one of the Key Holder’s friends. But someone else grabbed the Number out of midair,” She explained.

“And the problem is?” He asked, his frown deepening.

“The Number didn’t take control,” She continued.

“It doesn’t matter if the Number takes control or not as long as the Number is filled. We have nothing to fear. You may leave now,” He replied, obviously unconcerned.

“Yes, sir,” The masked Woman said obediently, before standing and leaving the room.

The child can’t help but ponder. “This is most curious. How can some random person be immune to the power of a Number?”

To Be Continued...

Number’s collected: 7

Number 20: Madgic

Number 25: Force Focus

Author's Note

Hi guy’s sorry for the long wait I’ve been busy with other stuff.
But worry not I’ll still be working on all of my stories.

Shout to who you think I am for letting me use his OC Shadow Dancer.

Hi guy’s I’m looking for OC’s to give them Number card’s.
If you have an OC send me a PM and I’ll get back to you.
Stay safe and thank you for reading my story.

Duelists Of Divinity Rank 0 prologue

Dear Princess Twilight

How are things in Equestria?
As for things here it's been quiet and everyone’s getting excited for new years. Needless to say Pinkie is beyond excited and as you would expect she’s planning a huge party at the school. Applejack and Rarity have invited me on a shopping trip, don't know where yet but I know it's going to be fun. I have been playing a card game called Duel Monsters and I am loving the game so much. I could go into detail about the game but I’ll probably fill most of the book. And it’s not just me, everyone plays this game. I had heard of the game when I first arrived in this world, but I didn't think much of it at the time. After when Pinkie introduced me to the game and I got the hang of it, I played against her and let just say she's unpredictable. Anyway I had better get going. Just before I forget, how’s Starlight doing, it would be great if she could come and visit us again. Write to me soon.

Your friend
Sunset Shimmer.

Sunset put down her book, checking the time on her phone, and her eyes widened in shock.

“Oh no, I'm going to be late!” She said

Grabbing her Jacket and stuffing her phone into her pocket, she dashed out of her apartment. Running through the town she calls home, everywhere she looked, she saw everyone preparing for new years. Seeing everyone looking excited made Sunset think to herself how much fun she was going to have with her friends.

After all, ever since she first arrived into this world she never thought much of celebrations, but now this may be her first new years party. As she ran she could see her friends Applejack and Rarity. When she stopped in front of them, she huffed and puffed, trying to catch her breath. “Sorry I’m late” she said.

“Almost darling” said Rarity. “We were starting to think you were not coming.”

Applejack then said “Well all that matters is that she's here now, so let's get a move on.”

The girls take their seats in the Apple Family truck. Applejack starts the engine and they set off down the street. The drive took about 30 minutes and they arrived at the new year's market, where there were lots of tents and stalls set up for sales.

Applejack wanted to check out the farmers market but Rarity is looking for new fabrics and hopefully a new sewing machine after an “incident happened with her sister.” Sunset separated from her two friends and went to explore the market on her own.
She was overwhelmed by everything she saw, not watching where she was going. Suddenly Sunset crashed into someone, knocking her down as she looked up. She saw a young man with pale yellow skin and blazing crimson eyes looking down at her, he had hair similar to Sunset’s but shorter, he was wearing a hoodie with a striped design of red and yellow, the crest on his chest was a sun exploding, even his pants were the same. He extended his hand to help her up. After Sunset got back on her feet she looked at him and apologized to him and he sharply said “watch where you’re going next time!”

Sunset replied with an angry voice and said “there’s no need for that, I was already apologising.” The boy looked at Sunset with a smirk and said “I know and i accept it and i was just telling you to watch where you were going.”

Before this got out of hand, a familiar voice was heard from a distance saying “Sunset is that you?” They both looked and saw Principal Celestia wearing a winter coat, she walked up to them and with a calming voice said “I see you have meet my nephew Solar Force.”

Sunset was surprised to find this out and said “He’s your nephew?”
“Why yes he is and he’ll be stating his school year with us in January” said Principal Celestia in a happy tone. And then out of the blue Vice-Principal Luna appeared holding a circular device and said “Sister do you remember this?”

Celestia looked at the deceive and a cheerful expression spread her across face. “Oh my goodness I haven't seen one of these in years” She said happily. “I know sister, I just saw it and it was a bargain so I bought it for nosagia sake” replied Luna. Sunset looked closely and said “What is that, it looks like a giant wrist watch.” Solar chuckled and said “Shows what you know, this is a Kaiba Corp duel disk used in the Battle City Tournament.”

When Sunset heard this her eyes opened wide and she said “the Battle City Tournament, this is one of the duel disks used way back then, why isn't this in a museum?” At this point Luna cut in and said “After the tournament these duel disks were put into mass production and soon every duelist in the world had one, and they become the base for the Dpads that we have today.”

Celestia then looked at Luna with a nostalgic look on her face. “Do you remember Luna, how we waited in line all day to buy our first duel disks?” Luna gave her sister a slight frown. “Yes and i remember how much trouble we got into for missing a day of school.” Celestia looked away and blushed slightly in embarrassment.

Then Celestia looked at Sunset and said “Oh by the way Sunset, Solar Force is in to Duel Monsters just like you.” Sunset looked at Solar Force with smile and said “Oh really, we should have a match some time.” Solar gave a soft chuckle before looking at Sunset with a scowl. “I’ll destroy you!” he whispered deviously.

“Now Now Solar be nice” said Celestia, frowning at her nephew. It was at this moment that Celestia took a closer look at both Sunset and Solar, and realised something. “You know you two, if i didn’t know better, I would say you look almost like twins.” “I have to agree, the two of you could almost be brother and sister” said Luna.

Sunset and Solar both looked at each with indignant glares. “I don’t look him/her!! they shouted in unison. “Hey what are you doing!?” Knock it off?! No you knock it off?!” They were interrupted by the sound of Celestia and Luna’s giggling. They both looked away and blushed with embarrassment, which caused the two sisters to laugh even more.

Celestia then said “Well Sunset as amusing as this has been, it is getting late and i think it’s time we were going, goodbye and happy new year. “Same from me” said Luna. Before he left with his aunts, Solar looked at Sunset with a smirk and said “see you next year sis.” Sunset blushed and said “we’re not siblings!” Solar walked away and gave Sunset a thumbs up as he went .

“Man that guy’s cocky, does he think he’s an anime character or something?” Sunset grumbled under her breath. Then she thinks to herself “but if he’s into duel monsters, he may be interesting to have around, I wonder what kind of deck he uses.” Sunset then shook her head. “Forget about it now, you can deal with him next year, just enjoy today.

”Resuming her tour of the market, Sunset sees a tent which stood out from the other tents and stands like a saw thumb because of how different it looked. Curiosity got the better of her, and she approached the tent and saw all kind of items for sale. Most were exotic, others were strange, but there was one item that caught Sunset eye’s. It was shaped like a golden arrow head, but it was split into three sections going from large at the top to small at the point, and it had a green jewel embedded above the middle of the top section with a circle above it which made sunset think it most of been supposed to be worn as a necklace.

“I can see you have taken a liking to that charm” said a mysterious voice. Sunset looked up and saw a tall dark skinned woman, with painted white stripes across parts of her face and her hare was a mohawk divided in to black and white stripes. Sunset blinked in surprise and replied “sorry, is this not for sale?” the dark skinned woman gave a soft chuckle. “Of course it's for sale if that is what you wish to buy, but please take note, the price can be quite high” she explained. Sunset thought the woman seemed familiar and then realized who this woman was.

“Excuse me, is your name Zecora?” Sunset asked. “Why yes my dear that is me, and who might you be?” said Zecora in a rhyming tone. “My name is Sunset Shimmer, my friends told me about you and your unique collection.” replied Sunset. Zecora humed to herself thoughtfully. “I see word of my collection has spread far and wide, in which i take great pride” she rhymed. Zecora then picked up the trinket from the table and held out in front of her. “If the proper price can’t be paid, I am willing to make a trade.” she said
Sunset thought about Zecora’s offer. “what can I trade to her for this charm.” She opened her hand bag and began rummaging through it for anything that might be valuable. As she was searching, she began to empty its contents onto the table. First was her phone, then her purse, and eventually she pulled out her Duel Pad. This caught Zecora's attention. “Oh, you are a Duelist i see?” she said curiously. “Yeah, you could say I am a die hard fan of all things Duel Monsters.” Zecora gave Sunset wide smile. “You know, I have been to wanting give this game a try, I’m always being told that it is a lot of fun. If you happen to have a spare deck which you no longer want or need anymore, I would be more than happy to trade that for the charm?”

Sunset looked at her deck in her in her deck holster on her hip, and thought to herself “I spent a long time building this deck, i don't want to give away.” But then she remember that she had another deck which she always kept with her, her very first starter deck, which she kept purely for nostalgia sake. She reached into her bag and pulled out the old deck, just looking at it brought back happy memories of her and her friends, playing the game together for the first time. Sunset then looked back at Zecora. “This is the very first deck that my friends got for me, and it's the deck that i learned to play the game with.”

Zecora smiled warmly. “I can tell from your face that those cards mean a lot to you, and if you give them to me, I promise that I will treasure them just as you do.” She said. Sunset gave a grateful smile. “Thank you, that means a lot to me.” And so the deal was done, Sunset and Zecora traded one precious item for the other. Once the trade was made, Sunset thanked Zecora, and Zecora said that the charm may bring Sunset good luck.

After that, Sunset decided to reunite with her two companions and see how they had fared at the market. After a few minutes she found Applejack and Rarity and asked them about how their time at the market had gone. Rarity, with enthusiasm, showed Sunset the new fabric that she had purchased. “I have had the most wonderful day darling, the new fabric I have purchased is just what I was looking for to bring in the new designer outfits that I am working on and also the shopkeeper told me that he had a friend with a sewing machine who can bring it to my place in the new year.”

Sunset smiled at her friend. “That's great to hear, I'm glad you have found what you were looking for.” She turned and looked at Applejack. “How about you AJ?” She asked. Applejack replied, saying ”Well I didn’t get exactly what I was after but I did however find some oil and grindstone for the old tools we got.” “Well anyway, enough about us, did you find anything you liked Sunset? Asked Rarity.

Sunset pulled out the charm and showed it to her friends. “Actually I did, I got this charm from Zecora” She said. Rarity raised an eyebrow. “I didn't know you had a thing for jewellery Sunset.” She said. “I don’t really think she does Rarity, but if she brought it she must of liked it, right Sunset?” Said Applejack. Sunset then explained to Applejack and Rarity how she obtained the charm from Zecora, and both of her friends were very surprised. “You actually gave her your first deck?” said Rarity in a slightly shocked tone.

“I know giving away my first deck is a bit of a shock Rarity, but I didn’t really need it anymore and it was just sitting in my bag gathering dust. Besides, those cards brought me so much happiness and I thought they could bring the same happiness for Zecora too.” Hearing this made Rarity smile. “Aw, what a sweet gesture darling.” She said happily. Applejack just smiled and chuckled. “Classic Sunset.” She said.

It was then that Sunset had an idea to ask Rarity what should she use to make the charm into a necklace. Rarity took a moment to think and got an idea, pointing her finger to the sky. “To the boutique” She said seriously. Sunset followed her friends as they left the market, but unbeknownst to them someone was watching them, or rather they were watching Sunset.

On the other side of the street, stood a cloaked figure partially hidden by the shadows. He reached into his cloak and pulled out a monocle like device, which he placed over his left eye. Threw the device, he spoke to the person he was in contact with. “They have just left the market, and the girl now has the key, should I follow?” He waited a moment to here his instructions. He then said “Alright, I am on my way back.” And with that, he then walked off and vanished into the crowd.

In middle of an old amusement park lies a lake, and in the middle of that lake is an old fantasy castle from a fairy tale. Inside, we see a room with rows of TV’s covering one wall, all with a different program on, but most of the programs were cartoons. In the centre of the room there is a tall chair, almost like a throne. Sitting in the chair is a child like figure watching the programs and laughing hysterically at everything. His face is shadowed by the darkness of the room.

As he continues to laugh, another person walks into the room and approaches the chair from behind. “Why don’t we just take the key from the girl now? She is obviously not aware of it’s true nature.” The child stopped laughing but he still had a sinister grin on what could be seen of his face. “Now now, we shouldn't rush into things just yet. If we attack her now, then we will have to do all of the hard work to open the door and besides she is just a pawn in a game that she is not aware of, and we will get rid of her and her little friends when the time is right. So just be patient, our time will soon come.”

Back with Sunset and her friend’s, she and Rarity were now at Rarity’s boutique after Applejack had dropped them off before heading back to the farm, saying she would see them later at the new years party. Inside the boutique, Rarity was showing Sunset a box filled with different chains that she could use to turn the charm into a necklace. “Here you are darling, these are just a few little accessories that I saved from my punk phase, what was I thinking?” She said in an dramatic tone.

Sunset stared at her fashionable friend in stunned surprise. “You had a punk phase!?” Rarity just rolled her eyes. “We've all had phases darling.” Rarity then reached into the box and pulled the chain she thought would be perfect for Sunsets new necklace. While she did this, Sunset was lost in thought. “Someone as dramatic and who has such a strong fashion sense as Rarity having a punk phase, It’s almost unthinkable.”

“Finished!” Rarity announced, snapping Sunset out of her thoughts. “Here you are Sunset, all done, be honest with me, what do you think?” Sunset beamed with happiness. “Is that stainless steel?” she asked excitedly. “Why yes it is, not only will it never rust, but will never leave any kind of stain on your neck.” Rarity explained proudly.” Sunset beamed even more. “It’s perfect. I love it.” She said happily. Sunset then offered to pay Rarity for the work, but Rarity simply refused. “Think of it as a gift for new years Sunset.” Sunset couldn’t thank Rarity enough.

Rarity then looked at the time on her phone. “Oh my, it’s ten minutes to midnight, we need to get to Sugar Cube Corner now!” The girls ran as fast as they could out the boutique and towards Sugar Cube Corner, in fact they ran so fast, you could say they could even give Rainbow Dash a run for her money. They made it within two minutes and everybody was waiting for them to arrive. Soon the party was in full swing and Sunset and her friends were having a blast. Sunset was telling her friends about the charm and how Rarity made it into a necklace. Rainbow Dash was impressed and told Sunset how cool she looked.

Then before they knew it the count down was upon them. Pinkie Pie Shouted to get everyone's attention. “It’s time everybody!!” They all began to countdown from 10. “10..9..8..7..6..5..4..3..2..1!!” as soon as the clock struck midnight Sunset then raised her arms and cheered “Happy New Year!!”

But then she realized she did not hear anyone else cheering, in fact there was suddenly no noise at all, everything had gone silent. She looked around and saw she was no longer at Sugarcube Corner. All around her was what looked liked a void like space. It felt like she was standing on solid ground, but even when she looked down, all she saw was darkness. She began to feel worried. “This is starting to freak out. What happened? Where am I?” Before she could say or do anything else, a deep, mysterious voice spoke from behind her “Greetings Key Bearer.”

Sunset slowly turned around and saw a giant door with a demonic face carved into it, and which appeared to be shut tight by long heavy chains. Looking up at the door, Sunset thinks to herself “Is this what brought me here? If it did, did it bring my friends here to” Sunset then looked at the door. “What’s going on here? Who are you?” She asked

The door then replied “I am nothing more then the door, what lies within is the true answer to your question?” “Then why am here?” Sunset asked. “You who bears the Emperor's Key, you are here to unlock me and claim the power within.” Sunset felt confunes. “Key? What key?” She asked. “The one which hangs around your neck.” said the door. Sunset looked down at her newly identified key, then asked “Why should I unlock you?” “To claim ultimate power!” The door replied.

At this, Sunset’s whole body went stiff. “Ultimate Power?” She whispered. She then remembered the person she used to be, the time she stole Twilight's crown and how the crowns power corrupted her, transforming her into a She-demon. Sunset shook her head in anger. “NO!!” she shouted, “I don’t want ultimate power! That’s not the kind of person I am anymore!” Sunset turned on her heel and started to walk away. “Ruin someone else’s life with your Ultimate power! She stated firmly “Im leaving!”

“So you do not care about your friend’s?” Said the door ominously. Sunset froze in her tracks, and turned back toward the door. “What are you talking about?” she asked with a surprised tone. “Allow me to explain.” said the door.

“You see, it is not just you who have came here.” Sunset then looked around her, and through the darkness she could see shadowy figures surrounding her.They all took different forms, one looked almost like a child, the others range from looking taller and older then her, to looking around her own age. “What’s going on? Who are they!?” Sunset demanded.

“They are seeker’s of my power and your enemy.” said the door. Sunset looked carefully at the figures. “Are they...really here? She asked. “No. What you see is merely there shadows. They cannot harm you. For now.”

Sunset looked at the shadows again and her eyes fell on the figure directly in front of her. From what she could tell, it looked like a young man, around her own age. She tried to take a closer look, to see if she could make out a face, but it just looked like a smooth surface. But then, three horizontal eyes, stretching from top to bottom of his face, snapped open and seemed to stare right through her. The sudden shock, caused Sunset to yelp, and fling herself backwards, losing her balance and falling onto her butt. She quickly crawled backwards, away from the three eyed creature. She pointed with a quivering finger and stutterd “Wha-what..what is that thing!?”

“That is a resident of your world, or the world you currently call home” replied the door ominously. For you see young one, they desire my power and they will stop at nothing to obtain it. However, it is only you who can unlock the door, for you who bares the Emperor's Key. So rest assured, they will be coming for you and your friends. the door told Sunset.

Sunset got back to her feet and griped the key tightly in her hand. “If this key unlocks your power, then I'll just get rid of it!” The door then said “That will not change anything, they are not aware of what is happening here, but they know you have the key and they know who you are.” At this, Sunset suddenly lost all the strength in her legs and she fell to her knees. She felt trapped. No how much she thought about it, she knew she was in a no win scenario. The door then spoke again. “The power I offer you can be used to protect, not harm. It is your choice! NOW CHOOSE!!” The door bellowed the last two words.

Sunset then rose slowly to her feet. “I just want to protect my friend’s.” she said quietly. “Then you know what you must do!” said the door. Sunset then raised the key in her hand and ran at the door. As soon as she reached it, she shoved the key into the lock as hard as she could. As soon as the key entered the lock, there was a flash of light which momentarily blinded her. Covering her eyes, she took a few steps back, as the chains shattered and the door swung open. When she opened her eyes, she saw what looked like someone flying towards her.

Sunset quickly shut her eyes again, waiting for the impact. But it never came. When she opened her eyes this time, she saw that she was now inside what looked like a sphere made from little rectangles of light, spinning around her. She reached out to touch one of them, but as soon as she touched one, they scattered into the darkness. Within the darkness, she heard a soft voice. “And so, it begins.”

Then suddenly... “HAPPY NEW YEAR!!” everyone cheered at the top of their lungs. Sunset felt shocked and very confused. She had no idea what had just happened. She looked up at the clock and saw it was still midnight. After a moment, she looked around at her friends and shrugged off the experience, thinking that it was probably nothing more then a very weird dream.

As Sunset and her friends have there little party, little do they know about the trials that lie ahead. The cards are placed, the field is set, and the pawns have been chosen. For Sunset and her friends, they will be thrown into a war of good vs evil. Will they have the strength to stand against it? Will there friendship be strong enough to carry them onwards. Will Sunset still have her friends in the end? For the war, for the Power of Divinity, has now begun.