Tirek sat alone in his throne room contemplating certain events. He now had his army of monsters to challenge the ponies and their other-species allies, and Grogar seemed to be less inclined to pay attention to his own villainous faction than it seemed. In fact, the only times Grogar seemed interested in his faction was to berate them for their failure, then demand that they continue to work together despite their failure. Needless to say, it was driving Tirek insane. However, he took pride in the fact he was able to keep his plans a secret from the ram. Or the figure who appeared to be the ram. Tirek was still unsure of who this "Grogar" really was, but he had his theories. But until he acquired more power, and learned the secrets of the bewitching bell, he could take no action against his so-called leader. So for now, he would play the waiting game.

Suddenly, a loud hum echoed across the chamber, earning his attention. He looked upon the Bell still in his hand, before putting it back down on his arm rest. "Something is happening. Something......momentous. My crystal of scrying." he said, just as the crystal in question hummed again. He exclaimed pleasantly before calling down his scrying crystal. Once it was in hand, the crystal shined a bright light that took the form of a familiar Gargoyle carrying a forest green pony in his hands.

"Well......this is interesting." Tirek said in a neutral tone.

He turned his hand to the side, and allowed the crystal to project a second image: Dusk Shine by the hospital bed of Flash Sentry. Now, his curiosity was truly peaked. "My brother, and the Prince: soon to meet for the first time." Tirek hummed in thought as he observed the figures in his vision. Then, a devious thought came to mind.

"Perhaps it's time to set my new plan into motion."

Dusk was beside himself with worry now. It had been been quite some time since Flash Sentry returned, and so far nothing could be done to wake him from this perpetual slumber. The doctor's simply couldn't figure out what was wrong with him. And even Dusk's own knowledge was limited to this. Yet despite all this, Dusk still took the time to visit him when he wasn't training to be the next ruler of Equestria. He always made time to visit Flash. He thought maybe talking to him might help him wake up faster.

"I wish I knew what to do to help you, Flash." Dusk said in a somber voice. "I've exhausted every resource we have available right now. I just........i don't understand what's wrong." He sighed. "I wish something would happen that could help you, Flash."

Suddenly, the door burst open as a guard entered the room. "Your highness: an unknown creature is approaching the city!"

This perked Dusk's curiosity. "A creature? What kind is it?"

"Unknown. But it appears to be carrying a forest green pony in its claws. It will be here within a few minutes."

Dusk gave one last look to Flash, before turning back to the guard, saying, "Alright. Let's go meet this.....creature, and see what it wants. Inform the princesses of this immediately."

"They already know, your highness." The guard said. "They're waiting for you at the front of the palace."

"Then let's go." Dusk said. The guard bowed, and began to lead him where Dusk needed to go. Both began running down the hallway, and through the castle to its front entrance. Princesses Celestia and Luna were there to greet him as he flew down into the courtyard. Several guards were also present in case this situation went bad. After a formal greeting from the princesses, Dusk teleported a telescope into his hoof to get a better look at the creature approaching. As everypony observed, the creature was able to circumnavigate the massive fans spread throughout the city.

"Whatever this creature is, it seems quite adept at aerial maneuverability." Luna observed.

"Yes." Celestia added. "I only hope that whoever this is has not abducted one of our subjects to cause trouble for us."

"I don't think that's the case." Dusk said as he observed the flying pair. "In fact, it seems like that pony is enjoying himself in that gargoyle's company."

This gave both princesses pause, before Celestia asked, "Prince Dusk Shine, are you sure that that is a Gargoyle in the air?" Dusk nodded as he looked to his mentor. "It's hard to tell, but from what I gather, it does seem to be a gargoyle up there. And it doesn't look like he's doing any harm to that pony. In fact, he seems to be taking great care not to hurt them."

"This is...an interesting development." Luna said. "What could a gargoyle be doing so far from the Netherlands?"

Celestia looked up, and said, "Perhaps we should ask him in a moment."

The ponies all looked to see the Gargoyle with his pony companion land in front of the courtyard. The pony was jumping around excitedly, as if he were excited to have been given a ride. After having a gentle laugh at the ponies expense, the Gargoyle knelt down to his knee and placed a hand on the ponies shoulder. Whatever he said seemed to have calmed the pony down. He nodded to the Gargoyle, and then both of them approached the royals. The gargoyle's first act upon reaching the three alicorns was to kneel down before them. The pony followed suit. This act surprised, and relieved everypony present, and gave Celestia a chance to say, "Greetings to you both. We apologize for the extra security: it has simply become necessary since an old adversary of ours laid siege to our kingdom. But we do not wish to come off as hostile to any newcomers. May I ask for your names?"

The gargoyle lightly chuckled before meeting Celestia's eyes. "I know it's been 4000 years already, but surely you haven't forgotten your old friend? Then again, you were both much younger than you are now when we first met, and I warned you about my brother."

This took the princesses by surprise, as they had not expected this sort of reunion. "Scorpan?" Celestia and Luna asked in shock.

"At your service." Scorpan said. "And this is my new friend, Emerald Wonder: descendant of Clover the Clever."

"It's an honor to meet you, your highnesses." Emerald Wonder respectfully said.

"Clover the Clever?" Celestia asked, before a look of reminiscing came upon her. "Now, that's a name we haven't heard in a long time." She then smiled to the smaller pony. "The honor is ours to meet the apprentice of Starswirl. My sister, and I remember him quite fondly from our youth."

"Yes." Luna agreed. "And I can somehow tell you may be just as clever as your ancestor was."

Emerald lightly gasped in amazement before he smiled again. "Thank you, Princess. That means so much coming from you."

"The two of you may rise now." Celestia said to the pair. "No need for formalities with you two." With that, the pair rose back to their feet. And the guards all eased off from their defensive positions. The only one left who had something to say was Dusk Shine, who had been slack-jawed ever since he heard Scorpan introduce himself. His mind had been racing with questions, and filling with excitement over the prospect of this situation. Now, however, he could no longer hold it in, and exclaimed, "This is amazing!", before laughing in joy. "THE Scorpan of the Netherlands! I never thought i'd actually get to meet you! I thought you were still in your own kingdom following Tirek's imprisonment! Can I ask you some questions? How come you look the same as you did back then? Do you need to absorb magic to maintain your life, and appearance? What's it like to-?"

"Patience, Prince Dusk Shine." Scorpan said with an amused look on his face. "I'll be happy to answer any questions you may have at a later date."

"Oh. R-right." Dusk said in slight embarassment.

"I admit, I think my sister and I would also like to know why you haven't aged, and why you have come back from your homeland." Celestia said.

Scorpan then looked a little bit somber as he recalled the state Emerald Wonder had found him in. "A cruel trick from my brother. It's the reason I never made it back to my home. If it weren't for Emerald's intervention, and his latent potential for magic despite being an Earthling, I might have remained trapped in a time capsule for the rest of my life."

"A time capsule?" Luna asked in surprise. "I didn't know Tirek possessed that kind of power."

"There's alot about Tirek you don't quite know." Scorpan said. "But I assure you, he had prepared that trap for a long time. However, I did not come to discuss something important with you. I wanted to speak with Prince Dusk Shine first, but he was not at his castle when we arrived. That's when Emerald pointed out this city, and suggested we seek out your castle. And so, we are here." He then glanced side to side before asking if there was any place they could speak.

"Of course." Celestia said. "But if you wouldn't mind, there is one more pony that I feel should be part of this meeting, if that is alright with you."

"I don't see why not." Scorpan looked to Emerald Wonder. "After all, I intend for my new friend to attend as well."

"Very well then." Celestia said, before turning to her guards, and ordering them to find Shining Armor. "Come. Let us adjourn to the throne room."

Once in the throne room, with Princes Dusk Shine and Shining Armor at Celestia and Luna's side respectively, Scorpan began to explain the situation at hand. "A sickness lies upon Equestria. I do not know the source, but I do know that it is infecting everything that lives. The very earth itself has been tainted, as have other creatures of the land."

"It's true." Emerald Wonder said. "I was feeding a puckwudgie some moss from where I later found Scorpan, and something strange happened to it - it went crazy, and attacked me."

"Well, Puckwudgies have been known to attack those who intrude on their territory, so this doesn't seem all that strange to me." Dusk Shine said.

"No, not this time." Emerald countered. "I wasn't a threat to the Puckwudgie and at first it treated me as a friend. But then when I fed it the moss, it suddenly changed: its eyes began to glow purple, and it became even more aggressive than a regular Puckwudgie. It took a bite out of me before I tossed it aside. That's when the Manticore suddenly appeared, and broke my leg in its jaws."

"A manticore?" Celestia inquired.

"Indeed." Scorpan said. "One who had been corrupted by this malevolent force. Its appearance was different from the average Manticore, and it craved blood. But it wasn't just its size that was different: it also wielded poisonous barbs that could be fired from the tail. And its eyes were also purple in color."

"Just like the Puckwudgie I encountered." Emerald said.

"This is very serious." Luna said. "What could transform a manticore into such a horrible creature?"

"Hmm. Perhaps there was some element out there that caused this mutation in the Manticore." Dusk Shine suggested. "But the problem is, i've never heard of anything that could cause such a drastic change in something like this."

"Because this 'mutation' as you call it was an unnatural occurrence.....brought forth by the power of The Vashtar." Scorpan answered. The ponies, minus Emerald, were confused by this term. Shining Armor asked, "Excuse me, but, what exactly is "The Vashtar"?"

"A term once used by my people." Scorpan said. "While magic is the foundation of this world, all of existence is balanced by The Ashlam and The Vashtar: The Light and Darkness which encompass The Source. And before you ask, The Source is what gives strength to all of creation. It's an energy field that forms a connection with all living things. It surrounds us, penetrates us, and binds the realms together."

"This is alot to take in, Scorpan." Dusk Shine admitted. "We only recently learned of the true nature of The Elements of Harmony. And now, you're telling us there is an all powerful force that maintains reality, itself? I'm not even sure what to make of it."

"Make of it what you wish, Prince Dusk Shine." Scorpan said, before he raised up his hand and produced a ball of Light in his palm, surprising the ponies. "Just know that The Source is real, and exists in all living things. There are even those, like me, who are capable of wielding the Light's power to defend the innocent. But there are also those who can wield The Darkness to dominate, and enslave those who stand in their way."

"Like King Sombra?" Shining Armor asked.

"I've heard of him, but.....no. Not to the same extent as a Champion of Darkness. Let's just say those who can wield The Darkness are capable of many terrible things. Even Discord would be hardpressed to challenge someone like that, if they ever crossed paths."

Suddenly, a bright flash popped into the throne room, and revealed Discord in a boxing outfit. "Oh, please. It hardly matters if this theoretical Champion of Darkness exists: there's no way he's a match for the Master of Chaos, himself!"

Celestia sighed as she asked, "Discord, what are you doing here?" The draconequus poofed out of his outfit, and returned to his regular form before answering. "Oh, just heard that Prince Scorpan was in town, and had to see it for myself." He then turned to the Gargoyle, and bowed his head. "Greetings, my royal friend. You've certainly grown since we last met, haven't you? You were just a little tike back then, but now? Now, you're a strapping Gargoyle for someone of your age."

"Discord." Scorpan said in a rather neutral tone. "I'm surprised to see you again, after all this time. I heard from Starswirl that the Princesses had turned you to stone for your crimes against Equestria."

"A temporary state of being, I can assure you." Discord said, before teleporting his purple heart medal into his paws. "But as you can see, i've reformed since being turned to stone by Dusk Shine and his friends a few years ago. I'm now a friend to Equestria and all who live here. And as you can see, i've even saved Equestria from certain doom some time ago. Certainly a long way from the wicked chaos bringer I used to be, wouldn't you say?"

Scorpan looked at the medal, before turning to the royals and asking if this was true. "It is, actually." Dusk Shine said. "My friends and I have been friends with him for quite some time. And even though he's had a few hiccups along the way, Discord has proven his loyalty and friendship to us is genuine." Dusk then smiled. "Something for which i'm definitely grateful for."

"Why, thank you, Prince Dusk Shine." Discord said with a bow. "Always nice to have the support of good friends. Anyway, that takes up my time here. Have fun discussing whatever it is you were talking about." Discord then disappeared in a flash of light, leaving the six creatures alone in the throne room. Emerald then said, "You know, he's alot less threatening than I actually thought he was."

"Trust me: Discord's more of a funny trickster at heart....though he does have his moments." Dusk Shine said, before turning back to Scorpan. "Anyway, Scorpan, you were saying?"

"Well, when the Manticore attacked, I could sense a dark infection had taken root inside of it. As if the Darkness itself was possessing it. This notion was further proved when I purged this darkness from the creature, and restored it to its true self. Which only makes me fear that something terrible has happened to this land." Scorpan then took on a grim expression. "And I fear that my brother, Tirek, has a hand in whatever dark plague is infecting Equestria."

The group gave each other worried looks before Celestia spoke up. "Sadly, we know little of what Tirek is planning. We were hoping that he would resume his plans for stealing magic so that Discord could catch him this time. But he's remained off the grid, and has been more careful about keeping his whereabouts a secret. He could be anywhere in Equestria at this moment. And there is nopony who knows what he may be planning."

This suddenly sparked an idea in Shining Armor. "What about Flash Sentry, Princess?"

"What about him, Prince Shining Armor?" Luna asked curiously.

"Dusk had been doing research into his disappearance ever since he learned it happened. And he came to the conclusion that King Sombra may have transported him to Tirek after they fought in the Crystal Empire." Both Princesses and Dusk seemed surprised by this, but were considering it. "Then perhaps he would know where Tirek may be located. If we can heal and awaken him, he could take us to him."

"But Princess Celestia," Dusk said, "Flash is still in a coma. And the doctors don't know how to treat him to wake him up. And we already tried our own healing spells to heal him. So any plans to have him lead us to Tirek are pointless if he remains trapped in a coma."

"Perhaps I can be of some help." Scorpan offered. "There's a chance the power of the Ashlam I wield might be able to waken your friend, and restore him to full strength."

"You could really do that?" Shining asked.

"Yes. The Light Side of The Source is a pathway to many abilities some consider to be divine. Besides, isn't it worth it to at least try?"

The royals all gave each other looks, as they silently contemplated what they should do. However, it didn't take long for them to come to an agreement. And it was Dusk Shine who gave their shared answer. "Alright, Scorpan: let's give it a try, and pray that it works."

Some time later, the group led Scorpan and his companion to the medical location where Flash Sentry was being held. The brothers were allowed to go in, while the Princesses remained in the waiting area with Emerald Wonder. Many ponies were shocked by the sight of the Gargoyle, but the Princes kept up assurances that he was no threat. And after explaining their plan to the doctors, Scorpan was given permission to approach Flash. He laid a hand on his forehead with his eyes closed. After a few moments, he pulled back his hand, and said, "I can see why your friend remains trapped in this state: I can sense a powerful, dark presence coming off of him. It may be possible Tirek has done something to him during his time as his prisoner."

"But can you help him, like you said?" Dusk asked.

"I can try, at least." Scorpan said, before getting to work. Raising both hands above Flash's body, he began to summon the Ashlam to begin the cleansing and healing process. Golden light washed over the pegasus' body, and started to mend his wounds. Both Dusk and Shining smiled at this sight, hopeful that this idea would work. But then, something began to happen: Flash's body started convulsing, and he was making pained noises as the Light continued cleansing him. The princes were both starting to think something was wrong, and were moving in to do something. But then, Flashes eyes sprung open, and with a gasp and cough, he sat up in his bed, seemingly okay.

Scorpan ceased his actions, and let the pony take several deep breaths. Dusk gave Scorpan a concerned look, and asked, "Did it work?"

"I-....I think it did." Scorpan said with uncertainty. "But i'm concerned with how he reacted to my healing process. It was as if something was fighting me as I was cleansing him. Then he woke up before I could completely finish the job."

"What does that mean." Shining asked.

"It means he might still have some residual darkness inside of him. There's no way to be certain without me trying to cleanse him again."

"Probably not the best idea right now." Dusk said. "Let's just see if he's alright." Dusk then turned to Flash Sentry, and asked, "Flash? Are you okay?" At first, Flash said nothing. He just sat there, looking down at his shaking hooves. His breathing light, and shallow. Finally, he spoke. "Everything's still....hazy. I can't tell if this is real......or just another illusion." He then turned to see Dusk Shine standing beside Scorpan. "Prince Dusk Shine? Is it really you?"

"Yes, Flash, it's me." Dusk said with compassion as he placed a hoof on Flash's. "I'm sorry I wasn't able to find you. But I am so thankful you survived. After what Sombra did, I was afraid-"

"Sombra?" Flash asked, still sounding groggy. But then, after a few seconds, his eyes narrowed and he adopted an angered expression. "Sombra." he growled. "I remember now. I remember everything that monster did to me: him and Tirek both!"

Dusk and Scorpan exchanged looks before Dusk said, "So Tirek was involved. Flash, can you remember how you escaped?" But Scorpan said, "Prince Dusk, please don't pressure him. He might not be fully recovered yet, despite my efforts to-"

"I'm fine!" Flash snapped, surprising everyone. But the pegasus quickly remembered himself, and apologized. "Sorry. I'm fine, just....a little out of it right now. But I do remember things. And I know for a fact that I didn't escape: they set me loose. I guess once they had their fill of torturing me, they got tired and decided I wasn't worth keeping around anymore. That was their big mistake, because I remember where their base is." He then turned to the two princes, and said, "And I can lead you to them."

Dusk was a little concerned, and asked, "Are you sure, Flash?"

"Yes, I am. But we'll need the help of your friends.....and the new elements of harmony."

"My students?" Dusk asked. He was uncertain of this idea, as he didn't want to endanger his students in any way. But then Flash said, "Your highness, we have no choice. I heard Tirek say that the new element bearers are the only ones who can threaten his plans. We need their power if we're to put an end to Tirek and Sombra once, and for all. Unless you have a better solution?"

Dusk had to admit, he didn't have any better ideas. He had no idea if he and his friends could call upon Harmony's power again like they did against Sombra. And as the new element bearers, the student six were now entrusted with the safety of the world. This sort of thing was something they would have to do more often now that Laurana entrusted them with her power. So like it or not, Dusk had to concede to the logic of the situation. Plus the opportunity to put an end to Tirek's mystery plans before they sprouted.

"Alright. Let's do it."

A few hours later, and Dusk had collected quite the menagerie of creatures to follow Flash to Tirek's lair: his brothers, friends, students, Scorpan and Emerald Wonder. The latter two insisting on joining as they felt an obligation to face Tirek, and help put an end to his schemes (though admittedly, Emerald was more interested in observing the events which would unfold). While on the train, Shining Armor, the mane and student six were listening to Scorpan tell the same story he told Emerald Wonder when they first me. Many of them could hardly believe they were even talking to the real Scorpan, let alone hearing the story of how he became Champion of Light and defeated Tirek single-handedly. But while he was conversing, Dusk noticed Flash looking out the window with a serious look on his face. Being the concerned pony he was, Dusk sat beside Flash and asked if everything was alright.

"Yeah. I'm okay." Flash said. "Just still reeling from everything that's happened these past few weeks. I still can't believe it's only been a short time."

"I know how you feel, Flash." Dusk admitted, looking a little downtrodden. "I still have a hard time believing i'm going to succeed the princesses soon. It seems only yesterday I was Celestia's faithful student: now i'm set up to be her heir. It's alot to take in."

Flash turned to Dusk, and gave him a warm smile, "Even so, I couldn't think of anypony more suited to take their place. Prince Dusk, you've proven yourself capable of being a great leader time, and time again. You've stood up to the worst this world had to offer, and came out okay. If anyone can maintain Equestria after the Princesses retire, it's you."

Dusk was surprised by this, and asked, "Do you really mean that?"

"Of course I do." Flash said. "Your brother speaks highly of you, and your exploits are on par with that of the Pillars of Equestria by now. I have all the faith in the world you'll do great."

Dusk chuckled happily. "Thank you. You truly are a good friend, and i'm glad I never lost faith you were still alive."

For a moment, Flash's smile slightly faltered, but resumed before Dusk could take notice. "Prince Shining Armor told me about that. I'm truly grateful you took time to investigate my disappearance. You really cared that much about me, didn't you?"

"Of course. I would have done the same for any of my friends if the same happened to them. And....even though we haven't spoken that much, I consider you a friend, too."

"Same." Flash said, before the train suddenly stopped. He then took on a serious expression as he said, "We're here." The crew left the train, and followed Flash along a desolate road to an all too familiar place.

"Hollow Shades?" Rainbow Dash asked. "But we were already here when we stopped the Pony of Shadows."

"Be that as it may, this is where Tirek and Sombra have set up a base here." Flash explained. If we want to stop them, we need to take them down here, and now." He continued to lead the creatures to the desolate town which seemed the same as the last time the Mane Six were here. "Man, this place is spooky." Gallus said.

"It wasn't always like this." Applejack explained. "The Pony of Shadows changed it up for his own purposes, and made it his own little hiding hole."

"But why would Tirek, and Sombra come here?" Sandbar asked. "I thought the Well of Shades didn't have any power left after you helped the pillars save Stygian."

"We thought so too, darling." Rarity said. "Whatever the reason, i'm certain it can't be good."

"Well, we already beat Tirek once, and you guys made mince meat out of that Sombra guy." Smolder boasted. "If they give us trouble, we'll just give them what they deserve."

"Don't underestimate them, Smolder." Shining Armor said. "Both villains have powerful magic at their disposal, and both are extremely intelligent. If they're working together, then that makes them twice as dangerous as they were before."

"I agree with Shining Armor." Scorpan said. "My brother is a cunning strategist who will use any situation to his advantage. We must use caution if we are to overcome him, and his accomplice."

"Everyone." Flash said, stopping the group where it stood. "We're here." When they came up beside Flash, they saw the large, gaping hole still remaining from the Mane Six's last fight in this place. Before the question of how they would get down there could come up, Dusk used his magic to teleport them down into the Well. Those not used to it were a bit frizzled, but quickly recovered. The group looked around, seeing that the chamber was still the same as before, which still unnerved Fluttershy as she said, "Oh, dear, this place is still unpleasant to be in."

"Yona not understand." Yona said, as Flash stepped forward, towards the mural of the Shadow Pony. "Where mean centaur, and Sombra?"

"You have a point, Yona." Ocellus said. "Unless this place has a lower level noone knew about, they should be here."

Dusk couldn't help but shake the feeling something was amiss, and noticed Flash was apart from them. "Flash? Is everything alright?"

"Everything's just fine, Dusk."

"Then tell us what's going on: where are Tirek and Sombra?"

"Those two are the least of your concern right now." Flash said in a strangely dark tone, before he turned around. His expression was malicious, and out of character for him. "Uh, Flash? That's not a very nice look for you." Pinkie Pie joked. Suddenly, the room began to shake, and the floor trembled. The next thing anyone knew, dozens of Tiracians were emerging from the ground around them as the shadows themselves seemed to consume the entire chamber. To the crew's horror, the shadows then suddenly receded into Flash Sentry. He levitated into the air as a black orb formed around him in a whirlwind of shadow. Dusk's eyes widened as he recognized what was happening. His fears only being confirmed when the ball of blackness turned midnight blue before splitting to reveal a tall, black furred alicorn with blue armor, a short but flowing starry mane, and eyes like those of a dragon. Upon landing on the ground, the all too familiar figure spoke with venom in his voice. "You all should be concerned with the one lesson Dusk Shine never taught at his precious school: be careful who you trust."

"Flash?" Shining said in a disheartened tone.

"That name no longer has any meaning for me, "captain". From this point on, you will address me as Nocturnus, The Night Terror."

"How is this even possible?" Dusk asked frantically. "The elements of harmony destroyed all traces of Nightmare Moon."

"Yeah, and wasn't Nightmare Moon Princess Luna before?" Silverstream asked curiously.

"She was." Came an all too familiar voice that appeared out of the crowd of Tiracian soldiers with a wicked grin on his face. "Tirek!" Dusk shouted. Tirek ignored him, and continued his explanation. "But what many don't know was that Princess Luna was actually possessed by an outside force known simply as "The Nightmare". It exists to possess and corrupt powerful creatures to serve as its host. Luna had potential, until the Elements cleansed her of the Nightmare. However, the Nightmare still resided within her armor: clinging to it like an infectious spore. Waiting for the right host to come along, and give it new power. Fortunately, Sombra just so happened to find one in Shining Armor's faithful lieutenant." Tirek chuckled. "He had such spirit. You would have been proud to see him so strong."

"So you DID torture him into submission." Dusk said angrily.

"Indeed I did. He bravely tried to fight it at first. But all too soon the dark magics, and the Nightmare immediately took their toll. And he has become my most faithful servant ever since, due to The Nightmare's gratitude of being given a worthy host."

"I live to serve, and obey you only, my lord." Nocturnus - or Night Terror - said, bowing to the centaur.

"Indeed, my dark warrior." Tirek said proudly. "Now be good, and deliver these fools to their final judgement. But make sure that the last to die watch the first dozen or so go before them."

A coy smile filled Night Terror's face as he said, "As you wish." He then unfurled his wings, and set the Tiracians on the attack. Dusk was quick to go on the defensive, and erected a shield barrier to protect the group. When his name got called, Shining Armor reinforced his brother's shield to increase its strength. It must have worked, because the Tiracians were having a hard time smashing their way through. Even so, both could feel the strain of those hulking monsters battering their combined protection spell. "What the heck are these things?!" Rainbow exclaimed in shock.

"I wish I knew." Emerald said. "There's nothing like these things in the animal kingdom, or in any other kingdom that i've ever heard of."

"Whatever they are, they sure aren't giving up!" Gallus said. "How long before they get through the shield?"

"I don't know." Dusk Shine said. "These things are strong, but it could take a long while before they breach us."

"Then allow me to aid them." Night Terror said, before he began blasting the shield with his magic. All the while, Tirek stood back, and laughed as his enemies all stood together in one place, waiting to be overwhelmed by his beautiful creations. It wouldn't be long now: with the added might of Night Terror, these fools would soon know the full weight of his vengeance.

But Scorpan wouldn't have it.

"Prince Dusk, Shining Armor: when I give the word, lower the shield."

"What?! Are you crazy?!" Dusk exclaimed.

"I can give us the space needed to fight back, but only if you'll trust me."

"What do you plan to do?" Shining asked.

"You'll see." Scorpan said, as his eyes flashed gold, and he brought his hands together to show him holding a ball of light. The group was almost mesmerized by the sight, and the two princes almost missed when he gave the signal. "Now!" With a bit of reluctance, the two brothers lowered the shield, just as the TIracians were about to swarm them. But just as the group prepared themselves to be torn apart, Scorpan unleashed the power of the Ashlam at its fullest. From the orb in his hands, a massive wave of golden light washed over the Well of Shades. It let his companions untouched, but it actually weakened all the forces of evil in the room. Tirek, and Night Terror were slammed against the walls of each side of the room while the Tiracians were sprawled all over the floor. Their bodies burning from the effects of the light. The group was amazed by this display of power. Scorpan simply looked to his charges, seeing the Young Six's crystals now shining with mystic energy. "Whoa." Sandbar exclaimed. "What's going on with the Elements?"

"Maybe they're reacting to something?" Ocellus theorized. "Like...the energy from that attack Scorpan unleashed?"

"It would appear so, young one." Scorpan said. "The Elements of Harmony are but one half of The Source, with The Ashlam/The Light being the other. When joined as one, they awakened the power of Harmony inside each of you. Now, all of you, defend yourselves. Fight. FIGHT!" He shouted, before he began striking at the recovering Tiracians. The group was a little confused by what they had to do as the Tiracians began approaching them again. But then Dusk got an idea, and told his friends to each place a hoof on their student's shoulders. The combined harmony of each wielder, former or otherwise, caused the Elements to begin lancing out beams of light that pushed back the Tiracians one after another. At Dusk's request, Emerald stood inbetween the ponies and creatures who were now blasting away at the winged demons. Sad as it was to say, he was no fighter, and he knew it well enough to take cover in the middle of the Mane and Young Six.

Spike, however, did not do the same. Feeling his instincts for fighting kick in, he started punching at the Tiracians that approached him as he hovered in the air. He also shot fireballs which actually blew off the heads of the weakened monsters. All the while, Shining Armor projected a sword and shield made out of magic to both defend himself, and cut down any Tiracians that got near him. It seems the power of The Light also had an energizing effect on those with magic, otherwise Shining might not have stood a chance.

Tirek, however, seemed indifferent as he stood back up. He had witnessed this display of power, and knew that his forces were going to possibly fail. With that in mind, he commanded his Tiracians to stand down before opening a portal back to the Well of Souls aka Midnight Mountain. "Enjoy the small respite this day, fools. For one day soon, there will be a reckoning." And with that, he stepped through the portal back to his lair. The Tiracians still standing fled into the portal as well, leaving the dead behind. Realizing he had been abandoned, or perhaps he was being tested to see if he could escape this situation, Night Terror watched as the portal closed, and his master disappeared with it. Noting how he might be waylaid by the fliers of the group, he instead opted to run right past them. "Oh, no you don't!" Shining said, brandishing his projection sword to stop the running alicorn.

Instead, he blasted the ground beneath Shining's feet, and threw him away.

He quickly charged past the group, who all jumped out of the way so as to avoid being impaled on his horn. But Dusk Shine was not so willing to let Night Terror escape so easily. He flew after him, racing across the room until they reached an exitway that Dusk had never noticed before. And just as Night Terror was about to reach the end of the room, Dusk called out to him one final time. "Flash!" For some reason, this caused Night Terror to stop in his tracks so that he could listen to what the Prince had to say - and rebuke whatever it was he had to say.

(Dusk Shine)
This has to stop now
Whatever it is that you're going through
We'll fix it together, me and you
Just like we've always done

(Night Terror)
No! This has to stop now
This thing where you think that you've been my friend
And don't even hear how you condescend
The way you've always done

Dusk began to slowly approach the seemingly conflicted Night Terror.

Flash Sentry, listen (I'm listening)
I know it isn't true (Isn't it?)
Just look into my eyes now (Well?)
I know you feel it too (Perhaps I do)
Flash Sentry, listen (I'm listening)
I swear it's not too late
So before another line gets crossed
And everything we've had is lost
Just... wait

Wait?
No, I won't wait

This struck a dark cord in Night Terror, and after a moment he erected a barrier wall to prevent Dusk from following him, despite the alicorn's pleas. He then began walking his way to the exit, all while Dusk worked to dispel the barrier Night Terror had erected.

There's a line between the winners and the losers
There's a line between the chosen and the rest
And I've done the best I could
But I've always known just where we stood
Me here with the luckless
You there with the blessed

And that line between the beggars and the choosers
Is a line you've never let me quite ignore
How I've tried to jump that great divide
But I've never got the chances you were given

You don't know how much I've been denied
Well, I'm not being patient anymore

I'm crossing the line!
And I'm done holding back
So look out, clear the track
It's my turn!

I'm taking what's mine!
Every drop, every smidge
If I'm burning a bridge
Let it burn
But I'm crossing the line!

Dusk finally broke through the barrier, and reached the exitway, just as Night Terror charged up his horn to prepare for an attack. "Flash, please, wait!"

And for us, if we're over
That's fine
I'm crossing the line

The Dark Alicorn blasted the roof above the exitway, and caused it to collapse. The resulting collapse sealed off Night Terror from the Well of Shades, and allowed him to escape. Dusk, meanwhile, was forced to run away from the cave in before it could crush him. He looked on in despair as he thought of everything that had happened. How could he not have been prepared for this?

Night Terror was now outside, and far away from the Well of Shades. He still couldn't believe that Dusk Shine still had the gall to try and appeal to him after he did nothing but condescend to him by only viewing him as a friend. He thought of how much the Prince had meant to him when he was Flash Sentry, or at least how much he was starting to mean to the former pegasus. Then Lord TIrek, King Sombra, and the Nightmare opened his eyes to the truth: that Dusk Shine didn't fully care for him. He just saw him as another "friend" to have, like some sort of possession in his collection. The Prince had so many friends it seemed that that was the only thing he cared about. So it was no surprise when he heard it from Dusk's own mouth - twice - that Flash would only ever be a friend. He hoped they could be more than just friends, but those dreams had been dashed by The Prince of Friendship's arrogance.

As he thought this, a familiar portal opened, and out stepped his master. "Good. You managed to escape, after all. I was worried you might have somehow been captured. Or worse, returned to your weak, puny pony state."

"I would never allow that to happen, Lord Tirek." Night Terror said. "My former allegiances are dead. My service is yours, and yours alone."

"Excellent. Never forget that, Nocturnus....for your own sake." Suddenly, he heard the sound of flapping wings behind him, and saw a seemingly enraged Sombra charging at him. "Dusk Shine, and all of his friends survived your trap while WE lost at least twelve Tiracians! What is your excuse, Tirek?!" he yelled in his face. Tirek matched this by snatching the thestral by the throat, and raising him above the ground. "I do not need to be questioned by the likes of you, Sombra. Or have you forgotten where your loyalty lies?"

"But.....you had those do-gooders where you wanted them! They were ripe for the killing! Why didn't you press the attack?!"

"Because I never wanted them dead."

"What?"

"I needed some assurance that both Scorpan, and the new Wielders of Harmony held the power of the Ashlam and Harmony, respectively. The Tiracians were meant to test the scale of their threat, which I now have determined to be substantial enough." Tirek smirked. "Also, I wished to break Dusk Shine's spirit by revealing a pony he cared for was a traitor to his cause. Now, he will be despondent, and feel a great sense of responsibility for this tragedy which has befallen someone very close to him."

"So you wasted our resources for psychological warfare?"

"Before the battle of the fist comes the battle of the mind." Tirek explained. "You of all creatures should know this better than any other. After all, you instilled trauma into the hearts and minds of the crystal ponies from your tyrannical reign over them before your imprisonment. As such, I expect you to understand that I do not solely wish to beat Dusk Shine: I intend to break him like a branch. And you? You will remember your place, or I shall do what Grogar threatened to do, and cast you back into the darkness from which I summoned you." The centaur then threw Sombra to the ground, before pointing at him. "You have had the only warning I intend to give."

Tirek then opened a new portal back to Grogar's skull keep. "Now come: Grogar may be returning any moment now." He then turned to Night Terror, and ordered him to return to Midnight mountain. The black alicorn nodded before his mane covered his whole body, and turned him into a starry miasma that flew into the direction of the lair. Once he was gone, Tirek and an angered Sombra returned to their allies as they awaited the return of Grogar. As if on que, the ram announced his arrival to the villains while entering through the front of the fortress. "I also have pressing news which may be of interest to the lot of you: especially for Tirek."

"What sort of information, exactly?" Chrysalis asked.

"Tirek's brother, Scorpan, has returned to Equestria."

Tirek, of course, pretended to look both surprised, and angered by this revelation. Acting as though he had no idea his brother was back when he just encountered him an hour ago. Nevertheless, he played the part, and said, "That is impossible. The curse I placed upon him was absolute. He should have remained trapped in his time capsule forever."

"You trapped your brother in a time capsule?" Cozy Glow asked.

"Kicking the can down the road, I see." Storm King added.

"How he has returned does not matter." Grogar said. "All that matters is that you continue training to work together if we are to overcome Dusk Shine, and his friends. However unlikely that may seem."

"Rest assured, Great Grogar, that we are working as hard as we can to learn teamwork." Sombra said, while glancing up at Tirek for a brief moment. "Perhaps if we were given a new assignment together, we could accomplish something for you."

Grogar raised an eyebrow. "After you all failed to retrieve my Bewitching Bell? Not likely. Until I decide otherwise, I will decide when you six will be allow to make a move. Continue your training until I bring better news. With the return of Scorpan, and the presence of the new Element Bearers, I must continue searching for an edge to tip the scales in our favor."

"We will await your return, as you command, Grogar." Erebus said.

"See that you do. I will return at a later date. Do not go anywhere." Grogar said, before turning to leave his fortress once again. Once he was out of sight, the Legion of Doom dropped their "friendly" façade, and returned to their rotten outlooks. Except for Tirek, and Cozy Glow, evidently, with the latter saying, "Boy, he sure doesn't stick around as much as he used to."

"Why would he, kid?" Storm King asked. "After our little mission to Everhoof, it's a wonder he even still trusts us. If it were me, i'd be suspicious from the start."

"Then tis a good thing he is not you, Storm King." Erebus said. "Otherwise our plans would be dust in the wind, and we would all face Grogar's wrath."

"Fear not, my companions." Tirek said. "Everything continues as expected. The Tiracian horde continues to grow every day, the whereabouts of The Dark Crucible grow closer to being discovered, as do the secrets of Grogar's Bell. And the first of the Seven Balrogs awaits revival. It's only a matter of time until all our plans succeed."

"That is assuming neither Grogar, nor Dusk Shine, become aware of what we're doing." Chrysalis said. "Although, given his pony nature, fooling him can't be that hard to continue doing."

"Rest assured, Chrysalis, that Dusk Shine remains a step behind. Today, he may have survived my test, but in time, he and the others shall fall before our might. And fortunately, we have nothing......but time."

to be continued

Author's Note

Another chapter finished, and ready for reading. Hope you all enjoy this, because quite a bit happens in this chapter.

I should probably point out that while the Tiracians are strong, they aren't invincible. They have their weaknesses, like Scorpan's powers of Light, the Elements of Harmony, or even extremely strong magic. All it takes is a magical or magically charged weapon, and they can be brought down. Though I should also note that these things are around Scorpan's size, which is also the size of a human, if you want to scale them to the ponies. So while the Tiracians are challenging, they are not completely unstoppable. That just wouldn't be fair, now would it?

Also, I finally reveal the truth behind Nocturnus Night Terror's true identity: Flash Sentry. Before I forgot about this plotpoint of mine, I wanted Flash to be the new equivalent of Nightmare Moon because I wanted Tirek to find a way to hurt Dusk in a way that would be substantial. What better way to do it than corrupt a pony whom Dusk Shine considered a friend? Especially one who was developing feelings for the Prince before Sombra abducted him. Either way, he is now Night Terror, the pony equivalent of Darth Vader, as I believe Nightmare Moon was meant to be an allegory for - besides Maleficent.

Hopefully, you guys like what i've done, and enjoy the chapter. Please leave a comment down below, and let me know what you think. I'll be certain to listen with an open mind.:)