My daughters of Harmony, please hear my voice…

The shadows of the Underworld gather, and are encroaching around you…

Faith has already been claimed, and Generosity is in grave danger now…

I am aware that you are all afraid, for your families, your friends, each other, and for yourselves…

No, that is not selfish to be afraid for your own lives… and in fact, that is why I call to you in your dreams…

I have formed a small group of defenders…

They are stationed in the Crystal Empire…

This place… it is the safest place in all the land now…

I understand that is not saying much…

But I believe in these young individuals…

I implore you, find your way to the Crystal Empire, and lend my Celestial Guard your aid…

In Cloudsdale, a young woman with long, rainbow colored hair sat up in her bed and stretched, “What was that all about?” she looked to the other bed beside her, noting that it was empty. Her eyes widened, and she shot out of bed to search for her roommate and best friend.

It thankfully didn’t take long, as she soon found her friend on the balcony of the inn they currently stayed in, her light pink hair and yellow night gown flowing in the wind.

“There you are,” the rainbow haired girl sighed in relief, “Don’t do that Fluttersh-”

“You had it too, right?” her friend asked, her voice soft and breathy.

“Huh?” it took a second, but then her eyes widened, “Wait, you mean that weird dream? Did you…”

“That wasn’t a dream, Dashie,” her friend turned around to the rainbow haired woman, an overjoyed smile on her face as tears welled up in her eyes, “It was Celestia. Our Divine Mother reached out to us.”

The rainbow haired woman sighed in relief, and walked over to stand beside her friend, wrapping an arm around her, “Then we know where to go next,” she said, looking out at the large crystal castle in the distance.

Elsewhere in a circus carriage, an oddly dressed woman sat up from her makeshift bed and rubbed her eyes, “I’ll be safe there, but what about Generosity?” she asked looking down. Thankfully she and her circus troupe were already super close, and would probably arrive in another travel day.

That was a relief, but still… knowing that her friends were out there somewhere, still being hunted…

She stepped out of the carriage and looked up at the glowing castle up ahead. All she could do for now was pray that her friends would be safe. Celestia’s knights could do it. They could ensure they arrived safely. And despite being unable to fight, she could do her part to protect them too.

“I’ll protect them too,” she said, placing her hands over her heart, “We are best friends, after all.”

Be brave, my child…

My knights… they will find you…

The Maiden of Generosity opened her eyes, her entire body feeling stiff and sore. She was still dressed solely in her purple lingerie set, but her wrists were chained above her head to a stone wall behind her, and her ankles chained to the floor, preventing her from moving.

The scarf was replaced with a red and black ball gag, something the green haired woman decided on when she made a bit too much noise apparently.

She struggled with her bindings a bit, but stopped once she found how futile it was. She looked down, tears falling freely as she weighed her chances of getting out of here. They weren’t looking good.

The purple haired woman trembled, and broke into soft, yet heavy sobs, praying that the Goddess’ knights would reach her before it was too late.

Azure Sandora presents

Power Rangers: Celestial Guard

Disclaimer: My Little Pony and Power Rangers belong to Hasbro

Please support the official releases.

Theme Song: Dark Creatures

Verse 3: Fear and Trust

Cadence fell to the ground helplessly, still holding the wooden sword in her hand. She looked up just in time to see Spike’s own sword swing down, prompting the Princess to yelp in shock and block just in time.

With a bit of effort, Cadence pushed Spike’s blade off of her and scampered to her feet. The rogue smirked and rushed after her, doing a fancy vertical flip slash downward, knocking Cadence once again to the ground.

As the princess slowly rose to the ground, Spike approached her and pressed his foot to her back, keeping her to the ground, “Give up now, Princess?”

Cadence growled in frustration, tightening her fists. Before she could say anything though, the door slammed open, revealing a truly enraged Shining Armor.

“Get, your filthy boot, off of Her Majesty.” he said with barely controlled rage.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa!” Spike stepped back waving his hands, “It’s not what it looks like, I promise! She and I were-”

“I don’t want to hear it!” Shining spat, shoving Spike away harshly and then knelt down beside Cadence, helping her up, “Your Majesty, are you okay? I’m sorry about this. I’ll make sure the thief is tossed into the deepest dungeon cell for-”

“Shining, you idiot,” Cadence fussed, looking at her knight with a scowl, “Spike and I were sparring.”

“Wait, sparring?” Shining asked, now looking up at the thief, who rested his hands behind his head.

“I tried to tell you. But did you listen to me? Nooooooope,” Spike turned away looking up at the ceiling, “I swear, no respect in this place.”

“I asked Spike to spar with me,” Cadence said, rising to her feet and dusting herself off. She was still wearing her gown and high heels, “I wanted to see what a real fight would be like.”

“I told her that wearing her typical attire was a bad idea,” Spike added, “But she insisted on it, saying something about wanting to feel just how hard it’d be to fight as she was or something to that effect.”

“Why did you ask for something like that, Your Majesty?” Shining asked, still visibly confused. Cadence sighed and pulled her Solar Phone from inside her bosom, and showed it to Shining.

“Because of this, remember?” she asked, “I’m a part of this, too.”

Shining closed his eyes and sighed to himself, “Your Majesty, this isn’t a good idea.”

“Well it’s not like we can do anything about it now,” Cadence shrugged, putting the phone back in her bra. Both she and Shining were unaware of Spike moving to get a better view of her action.

“What if we asked the Goddess to transfer the power to someone-”

“Oh, so that’s your solution?” Cadence argued turning to Shining, “To give the power to someone else?”

“Yes, actually,” Shining folded his arms, “You’re not a knight. You’re the Princess, future Queen of the Kingdom.”

“And because of that, I should just stay here on my throne where it’s safe, is that it?” Cadence asked.

“Absolutely.” Shining answered immediately, not even denying it.

“Oh my God,” Cadence shook her head laughing, “You’re serious, aren’t you?”

“I can’t protect you out there on the battlefield,” Shining continued, “But I can protect you if you stay here where it’s-”

“Who says you need to protect me?!”

“I’m your sworn knight! It’s my duty to protect you!”

“Right now, your duty is the same as mine! To protect the Maidens and the Crystal Empire!”

“And if I’m going to do that, I can’t be worried about you getting hurt out there while we’re fighting a Nightmare!”

“See, this is why I asked Spike to help me with this, and not you or Octavia!”

Just as the two of them devolved into a loud shouting match with each other, Octavia and Macintosh walked right into the training room, stopping with wide eyes.

“Um, this is a thing, apparently,” Octavia muttered, Macintosh just nodding beside her.

“Honestly, they fight like an old married couple,” Spike said, walking over to join the others, “How’s your sister?”

“She’s fine, just worried ‘bout the Maiden we couldn’t save last night,” Macintosh answered.

“Mac, perfect timing!” Cadence exclaimed, stomping over to the farmer turned Ranger, “Tell Shining he’s being ridiculous!”

“I… uh…” Macintosh stammered.

“Mac sides with me on this, I’m sure!” Shining also stormed over to him, just as upset, “The Princess doesn’t belong on the battlefield, right?”

“I mean… I see where you’re comin’ from…”

“The Maidens come first!” Cadence argued, “Their lives are more important than any of ours, including mine!”

“W-well, um…”

“And besides, why shouldn’t I do my part to help protect the Maidens?” Cadence continued, folding her arms in defiance.

“Well, yeah I can see what ya mean by-”

“You don’t have to be on the battlefield to do your part!” Shining turned to Cadence.

“Maybe I want to be on the battlefield!” Cadence turned to Shining.

And just like that, they resumed their shouting match, this time with Macintosh in between them, clearly wanting to speak up, but too nervous to do so.

“Both of you, SHUT IT!!!” Octavia screamed, shocking both of them into silence, allowing a pretty tune to be now heard, “Someone’s getting a call from our Goddess.”

Macintosh pulled out his Solar Phone and opened it, “It is time. Gather your team and bring them to the Crystal Shrine.”

Macintosh nodded, “Got it,” he said, hiding how relieved he was that Celestia stepped in there. He hung up and turned to the Knight and Princess, “Celestia wants all of us to head to the Crystal Shrine.”

Cadence turned her nose to the air and pushed past everyone as she made her way to the shrine. Shining growled in frustration, looked at Macintosh briefly, and then walked after her.

“You are the leader, right?” Octavia asked Macintosh, one hand on her hip.

“Well, I guess I am, but…” Macintosh looked down somberly.

“You guess?” Octavia asked, eyebrows raised in surprise, “I don’t think that’s good enough here.”

“What do ya expect me to do?” Macintosh asked, “I ain’t royalty or a knight. I’m just a farmer.”

“No, you’re not,” Octavia walked over to him and held up the hand holding his Solar Phone, “So long as we have these, we’re Power Rangers now. And you’re supposed to be our leader,” she closed her eyes and took a deep breath, “So either start acting like one, or give the position to someone who will.”

And with that, Octavia walked out of the training area after her fellow Rangers. Macintosh hung his head as Spike walked up beside him.

“I really messed that one up…” Macintosh muttered.

“Big time,” Spike agreed, “But, I get it,” he took out his lucky coin, “We’re kinda both out of our element here.”

“Outta curiosity,” Macintosh turned to Spike, “If that hadn’t landed on Heads or whatever, what would you have done?”

“Don’t know,” Spike shrugged, “I tend to never question my luck when it kicks in. I guess, just be glad it did land on Heads.”

As Spike walked toward the Crystal Shrine, Macintosh thought about this “team” that was assembled. Two knights, one with a serious chip on his shoulder, a tomboyish princess, a thief, and a farmer who for some reason got elected the leader.

“Some team…” he muttered to himself.

“What?! You’re not helping me?!” Chrysalis cried into her hand mirror, the shadowy image of King Sombra replacing her reflection.

“You had THREE of my men with you, and let one of them die at the hands of these so called Power Rangers.” Sombra said darkly, “I can’t risk anymore men. You’ll have to make do with the Canis Brothers.”

Chrysalis pouted stomping her foot, “But, Your Majesty!”

“SILENCE!” he yelled, making Chrysalis wince in fear, “These Power Rangers are still human. Find a way to destroy them, and bring me the Maiden of Generosity!”

“Y-yes, King Sombra,” Chrysalis said in a quiet voice as her reflection returned.

“That didn’t sound pretty,” Canis Minor said.

“No, it wasn’t,” Chrysalis agreed, making her mirror vanish as she turned to Canis Minor, folding her arms sensually, “Is the Maiden secured?”

“You betcha,” Minor nodded, “We got her chained up deep in the cave, and I got the key right on my belt, see?” he showed Chrysalis the key, chained to the side of his belt, “No way they’ll get her free like this.”

“Good boy~” Chrysalis purred smiling, scratching the dog Nightmare behind the ears, “You go keep watch over the Maiden. But don’t rough her up too much. That right, goes to King Sombra alone.”

“Got it, Chrysalis!” Canis Minor said, walking off to where they kept the Maiden locked up. Now alone, Chrysalis bit her thumbnail nervously.

“Still human, he says,” she muttered to herself, “Humans with the full blessing of the Sun herself. We’re so fucked right now…”

“Hey Big Bro!” Minor said walking into the room, “Chrysie says she wants me watching over the wench.”

“Ah, excellent,” Canis Major said, stepping out of the chair beside the Maiden and looking at her, “Looks like my brother gets to keep you company now.”

She looked up at him hatefully, pulling at her chains in defiance.

“Don’t bother,” Canis Minor said walking up to loom over her, “You ain’t going anywhere anytime soon.”

“Keep a close watch over her, brother,” Canis Major urged, “She crafty. Remember, we lucked out on finding her.”

“Yeah, yeah, don’t worry, Major,” Canis Minor said now sitting down in the chair, “Not like we got anything to worry about. She’s stuck, remember?”

“Maybe, but better safe than sorry,” Canis Major said, choosing to just leave it at that. Hopefully his brother wouldn’t do something stupid and let her escape. He did good work, but he tended to be absent minded at times.

(insert song: Sheena - Tales of Symphonia)

As the two demons switched places, the Maiden of Generosity slumped forward, as much as her shackles allowed, and cried softly to herself. As the hours went by, her fear heightened bit by bit, now at the point she was trembling uncontrollably. Her breathing became labored as she became more and more frantic. She screamed as loudly as she could, pulling violently at her shackles before she broke into loud and intense sobs. Her strength was waning, and despite what her fellow Maiden probably thought, she wasn’t a pillar of strength. She was terrified, and truly at her breaking point even then. As such, the will to keep fighting this was waning.

The only reason she was this “put together” was because of that dream. If that was truly Mother Celestia, then her words in the dream meant that help was supposed to be on its way. If that was true, then her seer aunt, the words she spoke to her before she departed from her home said that…

The one came to her need in this hour of true helplessness, he was the one that would own…

“Hey!” the younger of those two monsters shouted, pounding his fist on the wall, “Shut your trap, woman! Your crying’s getting annoying!”

She glared at the brute, growling angrily as tears still streamed from her eyes. He was lucky she was chained up right now. To her, pacifism meant she just couldn’t kill him. She really wanted to feel her nails digging into his eyes again, or maybe next time she’d dig them someplace really soft. Someplace lower, that would really hurt.

“Yeah, yeah, whatever, ya helpless bitch,” the monster shouted, waving his arm at her dismissively, “Glare all ya want, but once Sombra gets ahold of ya, you’ll be broken just like the Maiden he broke ten years ago.”

Her eyes widened hearing that. That meant, one of her friends truly was captured already! And the way he just threw that out there, he was being honest, meaning she was already…

Hurry… Guardians of Celestia, please!

I’m running out of time…!

end song

“Thankfully we were able to save Applejack,” Sunburst said pacing back and forth after everyone gathered in the Shrine, “But unfortunately, the Nightmares still have the Maiden of Generosity.”

Applejack looked down somberly, “She sacrificed herself to rescue me. When I met eyes with her, I just knew she was someone I knew ages ago. I could tell she was scared but, she still risked herself for me. I know she was the Maiden of Generosity.”

“Worry not, Applejack,” Celestia urged, placing an ethereal hand on her shoulder, “Rarity WILL be saved.”

“Her name is Rarity?” Octavia asked with a wistful smile, “Lady Rarity. Has a nice ring to it~”

“Are you, seriously fantasizing about her before seeing her?” Spike asked with a raised eyebrow.

“What can I say? I know what I like.” Octavia shrugged. Spike just shook his head.

“Goddess Celestia, do we at least know where the Maiden is?” Shining asked stepping forward, “A clue or, something?”

“We know at the very least that she is east of here,” Celestia answered, “But I imagine Chrysalis is casting some sort of spell to obstruct standard scrying methods. We cannot get any closer to her location.”

“We don’t have any time to waste,” Macintosh said, turning to his fellow Rangers, “Our window of opportunity is closin’. If we don’t move soon, then the Nightmares’ll have two Maidens in their possession.”

Shining looked down somberly.

“Big guy’s right,” Spike sighed, leaning against a wall further in the back, “Hate to say it, but it might be better for us to start going east to search for the Maiden.”

“Just start going east?” Sunburst asked, “But, that would be dangerous! We don’t know what’s in the East, or what sort of resistance the Nightmares have!”

“We know that they have the Maiden, so that means there’s a lot of resistance,” Spike said pulling out his Solar Phone, “But we have these now, right? We’re Power Rangers, and they don’t know what a big deal that is yet.”

“You’re thinkin’, they won’t be prepared for our new powers?” Macintosh asked, for clarification.

“Basically,” Spike shrugged, “Look, when you’re in my business, the less your target knows the better. If we’re going to steal the Maiden, this is a golden opportunity.”

“Spike is right, despite where his advice is coming from,” Cadence said, “I doubt even Chrysalis could convince Sombra we’re a major threat yet. If we start moving now, we’ll at least know that we’ll hit the place, and then we can just hit ‘em hard and save the Maiden.”

Celestia looked down thoughtfully, but then nodded, “Yes, you two raise valid points. Very well then. The plan is to go east, and see if anything unusual stands out. Investigate it if able, and do whatever is necessary to save the Maiden.”

Shining glared in Cadence’s direction before turning to Celestia, “Goddess, if I may.”

“Yes, Shining?” Celestia asked.

“I’m not comfortable with the Princess on the battlefield,” Shining said, prompting Cadence to roll her eyes.

“Oh my God… seriously?” Cadence asked.

“Even though she is a Ranger like you?” Celestia asked, now walking over to him, “She chose this of her own free will, after all.”

“Yes, but she knows nothing of combat. I am her knight, so it’s my responsibility to seek her safety first and foremost,” Shining said, tightening his fists in frustration, “Please, try to understand.”

Macintosh looked down at his hands, taking note. This was related to the Maiden of Faith, whoever that was to him.

Celestia looked into his eyes intently, and with a hint of sadness, “I see. Macintosh, what do you say to this?”

“Um, what?” Macintosh asked, now looking up at Celestia.

“Your opinion of Shining Armor’s request to remove the Princess off the battlefield,” Celestia clarified, “What do you think?”

“I… I think…” Macintosh looked down, seriously considering that question. This wasn’t just a small mission. This was their one shot to save the Maiden of Generosity. He wasn’t sure that he was confident enough to lead in a mission this big.

“Mac…?” Applejack asked, looking at him concerned.

“I… ain’t so sure I’m the right man to lead this team, Celestia,” Macintosh admitted, “Really, I think Shinin’ Armor would be a better fit to lead this team.”

“Is that right?” Celestia closed her eyes considering what she just heard.

“Wait, are you serious?” Shining asked turning to look at Macintosh surprised. He didn’t realize that they felt…

“Then how about I give you a test,” Celestia said, folding her arms, “Macintosh, for this mission, you may relinquish your leadership duties to Shining Armor.”

“What?!” Cadence asked, eyes widening as she turned to Celestia.

Octavia looked at Celestia, arms folded and narrowing her eyes a bit.

“On the condition that if at any point Shining wishes to give you back your leadership position, you must resume your role as leader. Shining, would you agree to this test?”

“Yes, I would,” Shining admitted, “It’s nothing against Mac as a person, but I am a trained knight. I would rather the leader be someone trained in these situations.”

“And you, Macintosh?” Celestia asked, once again looking at the farmer.

“Y-yeah. I accept this test,” Macintosh nodded, “On the condition that if we manage to save the Maiden under his leadership, we make Shinin’ the leader of our team.”

“Very well then. Shining Armor, the Celestial Guard is yours for this mission,” Celestia said, naturally surprising everyone save for the two men before Celestia.

Shining nodded and turned to both Macintosh and Spike, “Alright, the three of us are going east in search of the Maiden of Generosity. We don’t want to show our hand right away, so no morphing unless there’s no other option.”

“Roger that, Commander Blue,” Spike said with a half assed salute. Macintosh just nodded in acceptance.

“What of the rest of us?” Octavia asked her Commander.

“Octavia, I want you to remain here and protect Her Majesty,” Shining Armor said.

“Hang on, what?” Cadence asked walking over to Shining Armor, forcibly turning him around, “You’re using your leadership duties to keep me off the battlefield?!”

“Yes, I am,” Shining folded his arms and narrowed his eyes, “It’s like I said before, I am your knight first and foremost. Your safety is paramount to me,” he closed his eyes tightly, “Please Cadence, just do this for me. I, I can’t lose you too…”

Cadence narrowed her eyes looking away. She knew what this was about, and hated Shining was doing this probably because of it.

Octavia sighed and walked over to stand beside Cadence, “Roger that, Commander,” she gave Macintosh a slight look, “I will guard my Princess with my life.”

Macintosh closed his eyes in shame. Yeah, he was being a coward right now, but all he wanted from this was to protect his sister. Leading an entire team of knights was asking a lot of him.

“Thank you,” Shining nodded, “Alright, Celestial Guard! Let’s save the Maiden of Generosity!”

Macintosh and Spike nodded, and the three of them ran out of the Shrine to their mission. Cadence just folded her arms in frustration as Octavia rubbed her eyes.

“Um, are you sure about this, Celestia?” Sunburst asked turning to the Goddess, “I thought you said that Shining wasn’t a leader.”

“Yes, I did,” Celestia confirmed, “I am giving him and Macintosh a chance to prove me wrong.”

Applejack just held her hand over her heart, biting her lip concerned. Macintosh was afraid of this mission. She knew he could do it, but not alone. She wanted to be there for him somehow. To do something for him beyond just being a burden.

“I wish I could help him,” Applejack prayed, unaware that Celestia was looking directly at her, “I don’t care how small. I just want to help my brother in some way.”

Celestia pressed a finger to her lips thoughtfully. Perhaps, there was something…

“So, why did you side with me?” Shining asked as they reached the forest and passed where they initially found Applejack and destroyed Taurus.

“I, I just think havin’ an actual knight as leader would be better than some small town farm boy, ya know?” Macintosh answered. Spike walked closely behind the two of them, looking around the forest almost disinterested.

“I see. Well, I mean no disrespect by agreeing with you,” Shining said, “I just… I guess I…”

“This is personal for ya, right?” Macintosh asked, “I… can sorta tell. It’s got somethin’ to do with the Maiden of Faith, don’t it?”

“Let me guess, she’s either an old flame, or a member of your family,” Spike threw out, “Am I right? Tell me I’m right.”

“Surprisingly, yeah,” Shining admitted, “Her name is Twilight Sparkle. She’s… my little sister.”

Macintosh’s eyes widened, “Your sister’s, a Maiden, too?”

Shining nodded, looking down darkly, “Ten years ago, I faced a Nightmare named Scorpius. I was just a kid back then, but he had my sister, so I, I challenged him to a fight. If I won, he had to give me back my sister. Surprisingly, he accepted.”

“He had to have been playing with you,” Spike threw out there, “No way he was serious.”

“I don’t know, not that it matters,” Shining sighed, “I wasn’t strong enough to defeat him. The last thing I remember was the sound of my sister screaming for help.” he trembled, gripping the hilt of his sword tightly, “I trained nonstop after that, with the hopes I’d one day face the Nightmares myself, and save my sister.”

“You’re devoted, a lot like me,” Macintosh took note.

“For the longest, we were each other’s only family. We looked out for each other,” Shining said, “We were lucky that we were born into nobility, and that our parents knew the King and Queen. When they died, Cadence’s family took us in.”

Eventually, they hit a crossroads. Two path they could take. Unfortunately, they couldn’t continue east at this point, so they needed to pick a path.

“Well this is a problem,” Shining noted as he and Macintosh looked around.

“Any ideas?” Macintosh asked.

Spike sighed, and pointed down the right path, “Follow me, guys.”

“What do you mean, follow you?” Shining asked turning to Spike.

“Exactly what I said,” Spike turned back to them, “I know where they are.”

“Wait, you do?” Macintosh asked.

“There’s an old cave down this road,” Spike said, “Used to be a thieves’ den, but they all cleared out ages ago.”

“You would know something like that,” Shining narrowed his eyes at the thief.

“What can I say?” Spike asked with a shrug, “I know what I am. Trust me, if they’re smart, they’d go there, and I’m willing to bet that at least the green haired chick is smart.”

Shining sighed and looked up. It was almost noon already, “Alright, yeah. It’s better than nothing. Let’s head in that direction.”

The three young men walked down the right path at Spike’s behest. Eventually the three of them arrived at the cave, where sure enough they saw two Wisps standing guard at the entrance.

“Looks like Spike was right,” Macintosh whispered, hiding behind the bushes with his fellow Rangers, “The Maiden’s more’n likely in that cave.”

“Alright, then we need to find a way to sneak in,” Shining looked around, “Spike, is there another entrance we can take?” surprisingly, Spike didn’t answer, “Spike?”

“Um, Shinin’?” Macintosh pointed out, where they both saw Spike slowly inching his way to the Wisps.

“What is that thief thinking?!” Shining whispered harshly.

Spike managed to get behind one Wisp, and caught him in a choke hold, carefully dragging him behind a boulder. As he choked out the one, his partner looked in his direction, and tilted his head. He then slowly tiptoed over to the other side, where Spike’s fist suddenly lashed out, hitting him in the nose. The monster fell back a bit, but lunged at Spike, who dropped to the ground onto his back, threw his legs back, and then kicked to his feet, kicking the Wisp in the process.

As the Wisp landed, Spike took the Wisp’s face and slammed his head on the ground to knock him out.

“That was insane!” Shining cried as he and Macintosh ran over to Spike, “You damn near gave me a heart attack!”

“But I got us through, didn’t I?” Spike asked, “Now, we better get inside before these two need to change shifts. Once that happens, this whole place is going to be live.”

Spike lead the way inside, and Shining Armor growled in frustration. Macintosh sighed shaking his head. He had a feeling things between him and Spike were about to hit a head.

Back at the castle, Cadence was still in a very bad mood, and understandably so. In a way, she was being forced to pay because their “leader” didn’t have enough confidence in himself, and Shining’s own fears were getting the better of him.

Octavia didn’t agree with any of this, but if she was right about what Celestia was doing, then this needed to play out like this for a little while.

Octavia tracked down the Princess, currently sitting in front of her parents’ statue, hugging her knees, and for a good while just stayed in the background, observing her. “Looks like I was right about why she wanted to do this,” Octavia whispered to herself before stepping out to greet the Princess, “You know he means well, right?”

Cadence brought her knees closer to her chest, “Yeah, I know. It’s just… I know that if my parents were still alive, they’d be doing everything they can to protect the Maidens.”

“But you’re not your parents, Cadence,” Octavia said, leaning against a nearby tree and folding her arms, “You don’t have to do things like they do.”

“Maybe I want to, though,” Cadence challenged.

“Even knowing that you have the least combat experience?” Octavia asked raising an eyebrow, “Even knowing what seeing you in danger would do to the Commander?”

Cadence tried to answer, but instead looked down seriously. Octavia hated doing this, especially since she understood both sides of this argument. But in many ways, that’s why she needed to play devil’s advocate here.

“I need to step out of the castle for a bit,” Cadence said standing up.

“Cadence, I-”

“I won’t leave the city if that’s what you’re worried about, but I need to see some walls other than the ones in the castle. Octavia, please just, let me do this.”

Octavia looked at Cadence intently and then sighed, “Very well. But I’m going to have to insist that two of our squad keep an eye on you at least. From a distance, I promise.”

Cadence sighed and shook her head, “Fine. Whatever,” she waved it off and walked out of the courtyard. Octavia watched Cadence as she walked with pursed lips. If they were going to rescue Lady Rarity, they needed to pass this test.

The cave was absolutely labyrinthine in nature. It was dark save for a few torches here and there, and with number of twists and turns, Macintosh was completely turned around.

“We’re lost,” Shining said.

“We’re not lost,” Spike sighed, resting his hands behind his head.

“Okay, then where do we go from here?” Shining asked folding his arms in a challenging manner.

Spike looked around at the two paths. One was across an old bridge that looked ready to break at any moment, and another was down the path they’d been walking for the last hour or so. True to form, Spike flipped a coin, prompting Shining to roll his eyes.

“This way,” Spike said, pointing down the path they’d been walking after checking the results.

“You’re sure?” Macintosh asked.

“My luck hasn’t run out yet,” Spike shrugged.

“Wait, hang on a second,” Shining said stopping, “Have you been guessing this whole time?”

“I mean; I wouldn’t call it guessing…” Spike said carefully.

“Do you understand how serious this is?!” Shining asked, storming over to glare at Spike, “If we don’t find that Maiden before nightfall, that’s it!”

“Yeah, I know. And not just because you haven’t shut up about that since we started this journey,” Spike said.

“Know what? No, we’re not going in that direction,” Shining decided, now turning down the bridge, “We’re going this way.”

“I’m telling you, that’s not the right way,” Spike said.

“And I’m telling you, that I’m done being led by a thief,” Shining growled, glaring at Spike, “The fact that you’re still even here baffles me.”

“Um, Shining…” Macintosh warned.

“Well, I did tell the Goddess and Macintosh I’d help, so I figure running off now would be in poor taste.,” Spike defended, narrowing his eyes a bit at Shining Armor.

“After a coin toss!” Shining pointed out.

“What’s it matter how I came to the conclusion to help? I’m here, aren’t I?” Spike asked, clearly getting annoyed as he raised his voice a bit.

“Spike, come on, try to calm-”

“Yeah, and I’m willing to bet that as soon as you get what you came into the castle to steal, you’re gone, leaving us short a Ranger!”

“You really think I’d steal something now from you guys? This is the best gig I’ve had in ages! Free room and board? On a first name basis with the Princess? Why would I mess that up?”

“You’re the thief, you tell me.”

“Um, ya guys? Ya might wanna turn it down a notch,” Macintosh urged, now the only one of the three using his indoor voice.

“You know what I think?” Spike asked with a smirk, “I think, you’re jealous that Cadence prefers my company to yours,” he poked Shining in the chest, “I mean, when she wanted to see a real fight, who did she choose? Her so called “knight”, or the “lowly thief”?”

“You’re really pushing it,” Shining growled. Unknown to him, the gibberish Wisps ‘spoke’ was heard in the distance, slowly approaching the group.

“At this rate, the only thing I’d steal with enough time is her heart,” Spike shrugged arrogantly, “I mean, with my luck, you’ll take so long to actually make a move on her that she’ll turn to the next logical option. The dangerous bad boy rogue.”

“Alright, that’s IT!” Shining gripped Spike by the collar of his tunic, “I’ve had it with your smartass mouth!”

“Guys!” Macintosh shouted, finally getting everyone’s attention, “Listen!” both fellow Rangers looked up, hearing the Wisps approaching them.

“Oh, nice one, oh fearless leader,” Spike spat, “You just let the enemy know where we are!”

“I bet they found the two guards you knocked out, and began a search party!” Shining defended.

“And none of that would even matter if you hadn’t started screaming at the top of your lungs in an enemy stronghold!” Spike threw his arms out in emphasis, “Seriously, that’s rule number one in the Thief’s Handbook! Be silent, and keep in the shadows!”

“Hey! It don’t matter now!” Macintosh shouted, “We gotta move! So let’s just pick a path an’ go!”

“Fine then, come on!” Shining shouted, grabbing Macintosh’s arm and dragging him across the bridge. Spike closed his eyes in frustration.

“I keep telling you, that’s the wrong way!” Spike shouted. He was about to follow, but thanks to Macintosh’s girth and Shining’s heavy armor, he noticed the bridge beginning to collapse, “Uh oh. Guys, look out!”

“What now?!” Shining turned back around on a dime, just in time to see the bridge falling apart behind them, “Shoot, RUN!”

Shining and Macintosh ran to the other side of the bridge, jumping to the other side just in time as the bridge collapsed completely.

As he was still stuck on the other side, Spike looked around, for the first time actually looking tense, “Um, got it! These caves have tons of paths that wrap around and meet up, so just keep moving, I’ll catch up with you!”

Macintosh nodded, “Alright! Good luck, Spike!” Macintosh called out before running deeper into the cave with Shining. Spike shook his head, but then ran down the path he wanted to go down anyway just as the Wisps began to gather into the room.

“I say good riddance,” Shining said as they walked deeper into the cave.

“Ya realize now the team’s split up even more, right?” Macintosh asked.

“We don’t need people like him fighting beside us,” Shining said, “He’s a thief, nothing more.”

“Yeah,” Macintosh closed his eyes, “A thief that helped save my sister yesterday.”

Shining sighed, “Look, I’m sorry, okay? This whole Ranger thing, it just, what was Celestia thinking? You I can understand. Octavia and I make sense. But Her Majesty? A thief? I’m having a hard time trying to figure out her logic.”

“I, I kinda get it,” Macintosh looked down thoughtfully, “I’m still tryin’ to figure out why she made me the leader originally in the first place. Still, I kinda think tryin’ ta figure out a Goddess’ logic is a quest toward insanity.”

A sobered look came over Shining Armor, “Yeah. Look, I know things look bad right now, but I’m sure things will get better soon. I mean, what’s the worst that can happen?”

“Oh, there you are,” a voice oozing with sensuality said up ahead, “I was expecting more of you to come and play.”

Both Rangers looked ahead and saw Chrysalis standing in front of them with sinister glee, and about 10 to 15 Wisps jumping around the clearing they ended up in.

“You were sayin’?” Macintosh asked, he and Shining getting in fighting stances.

“Yeah, I walked into that one,” Shining admitted.

“Wisps, don’t waste any time!” Chrysalis ordered, “Make them suffer~!”

With that, the Wisps ran over to Shining and Macintosh, and a pretty violent fight began. Even though now they had the Morphing Grid empowering them a bit, they were still outnumbered. As such, while they fought in what was setting up to be a battle of attrition, Chrysalis just sat down with a dark, gleeful smile, and began filing her nails.

“I think I lost them,” Spike said as he stopped running to look behind him, “Geez. Maybe this is hazardous to my health, being a Ranger,” he folded his arms and thought to himself, “All I want is the greatest treasure in the world. How is this going to help me find that?”

He pulled out the medallion he wore around his neck, and looked at it intently. This was the only thing that he had from his Mother, and the one sign he had that he was loved. He never knew who his Mother was, or even what she looked like. All she knew was that she left him two gifts.

The lingering love of a Mother who couldn’t be with her child.

And the Goddess’ blessing to have good luck in all things.

“Mom, what should I do?” Spike asked, dropping the arrogant act now that he was alone, “I’m in way over my head here. I’m not some hero. I’m,” he closed his eyes, remembering the word that Shining kept using for him, “A thief. A lowly thief.”

He let his Medallion hang freely around his neck again, and he continued walking ahead. He just needed a sign. He never questioned his lucky coin, as it always led him down the right path, but this time…

He noticed a room sectioned off from the others, and a brighter light coming out of it. He slowly inched his way over and peaked inside. The sight he saw could only be described as tragically beautiful, making his heart skip a beat.

(insert song: Sheena - Tales of Symphonia)

She looked to be about his age, maybe older by a year or two. She had super long, curly purple hair that fell down to her waist, bright blue eyes, and a shapely figure that he could see quite easily thanks to her state of undress. Currently all she wore was a purple lacy bra and panties, matching lacy stockings, purple high heels, and a long sheer nightie over top. Her wrists and ankles were shackled to the wall and floor respectively, and she had a red ball gag keeping her silent. Even now though, with the look of pure anguish on her face…

She was the most beautiful woman Spike had ever seen in his life.

He then looked deeper into the room and saw a less beautiful sight. A large black dog monster, not nearly as big and burly as the bull one before, but still pretty nasty looking. He looked to be wearing a red vest and torn jeans, and was sitting in a chair with his head low, apparently sleeping right beside the Maiden.

“Just my luck…” Spike muttered looking around, realizing what this meant. Good news, he was right (Ha! Suck it, Shining!). Bad news, now he was the only one who could save the Maiden. Maybe he could sneak past, track down Macintosh and Shining, and come back?

But then he heard the Maiden sob softly, and the rattling of chains, and his heart began to race a bit. For as much of a pragmatic rouge he was, he couldn’t just leave her like this. He reached into his tunic and pulled out a few lock picks. Hopefully he could just take the key, but if he couldn’t…

“Lady luck, please don’t fail me now,” Spike prayed before crouching down and sneaking into the room. The Maiden looked up noticing Spike, and her eyes widened. He placed a finger to his lips quickly before she made a sound, and after a second, she nodded subtly.

Thank the Goddess, this woman was smart.

He walked over to the monster carefully, checking for the key. He quickly found it on his belt, but with how it was chained to him, he did not fancy his chances of getting it. Alright then, Spike thought, we’re doing this the hard way, then.

He tip-toed over to the Maiden, and first began picking the lock to the shackles around her ankles. He hated how much noise this made, and based on how tense the Maiden seemed to get, she hated it just as much, if not more.

After a few tense seconds, he managed to break both her ankles free. He breathed a sigh of relief, and then carefully rose up, now standing eye level with the Maiden. The position they were in was really suggestive, as her breasts were now pressed against his chest, and with her chained to the wall, she couldn’t do anything to stop him from doing anything.

But still, to honestly both of their shock, he got right to work picking the locks around her wrists now. This was a bit harder with them being raised, but she tried to lower the arm he was working on as much as she could to make it a bit easier.

The monster snorted, and for a split second it sounded like he was going to wake up, prompting both of them to freeze in place wide eyed. When instead the monster mumbled incoherently and started snoring again, both of them sighed in relief.

After a few more tense seconds to a minute, Spike managed to get both of her wrists free. Rather than remove the ball gag right away, first thing he did was take her hand and escort her out of the room, and down the path far away. He did not want to be around when they realized she was gone.

Once he was sure they were safe, Spike removed the ball gag, “Hey, you okay?” he asked as the woman coughed and stretched her jaw a bit.

“Define okay,” she answered, her voice high and cultured, with the tiniest hint of an accent, “Thank you, sir.”

“It’s Spike,” he said, “And, don’t mention it. I wasn’t going to just leave a beautiful woman like you chained up like that.”

“This, may be an odd question, but I must know,” she looked him in the eyes desperately, “Were you, sent by Mother Celestia?”

Spike looked down, gripping the Solar Phone in his pocket tightly, “Yeah. Believe it or not. Sorry your hero isn’t some dashing knight or something. The guy you’re probably expecting is-” he was silenced by the woman hugging him tightly, now trembling.

“Thank you…! Thank you so much…!” she sobbed, “I tried to be strong, but I was so scared…!”

“H-hey hey, it’s fine, see?” Spike said in a shaky voice, blushing as he felt her bountiful bosom pressed against his chest again, “No need to cry.”

“I’m sorry. I’m usually better put together than this,” she admitted, now releasing Spike, “In, more ways than one.”

“I, yeah I get that,” Spike said, carefully not looking at her extremely exposed chest right now, “Now um, let’s try to get you out of here, Miss…”

“Rarity. Rarity Belle,” she introduced herself, holding out her hand, “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Spike.”

Spike smiled and shook her hand, “The pleasure is all mine, Rarity.”

end song

After walking around her Kingdom for a bit, Cadence sat down in a park bench to just relax a bit. She was hoping that if she did this, she’d feel better about being left behind. After all, she knew that Shining and Octavia were right. She didn’t know the first thing about combat. Really, all she’d end up being if she were where they were, was a burden.

She knew this. But why did it hurt so much?

Remembering how quickly Spike knocked her to the ground…

How Shining insisted she needed to stay behind…

Even Celestia decided to go along with Macintosh’s decision to let Shining lead the Celestial Guard.

All of this, brought tears to her eyes. She hugged herself, letting her tears flow freely. She didn’t even know why she was crying. But she just felt terrible right now.

She then felt someone wrap their arms around her, accompanied by a sweet, fruity scent, “W-who is-”

“Shh… just let it out right now,” a new voice said. It was high, chirpy, yet very pleasant to listen to. Cadence looked up and saw a woman around her age, with super curly hot pink hair, and baby blue eyes. She wore a black top hat, red blazer over a short pink dress with a frilly skirt, fishnet stockings, white gloves, and black high heels.

The woman held Cadence closely, seeming to genuinely want to comfort her. Feeling this, Cadence just let out her tears, as if this woman were a dear friend. As she cried, the woman petted her head lovingly, just softly whispering things like “It’s going to be okay”, eventually humming a soft and gentle tune. After a while, Cadence calmed down.

“There, better?” the woman asked.

“A bit, thank you,” Cadence said, sitting up but still staying in the kind woman’s embrace, “You know who I am, right?”

“Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, right?” the woman asked, “Princess of the Crystal Empire.”

Cadence nodded, “Yet, you still came to comfort me, hugging me without warning.”

“Well, you needed someone to comfort you,” she said, as if it were obvious, “Princess or not, you’re still a person with needs, right?”

“I, y-yeah...” Cadence looked down somberly.

“If I may ask, um, why were you so upset?” the woman asked, “If it’s too personal, I get it, but-”

“No, no, it’s fine,” Cadence defended, “Talking about it, might help actually.” she considered her words carefully, “See, I have an opportunity to help my Kingdom, nay, the whole world in a way that I never thought possible. Thing is though, it’s dangerous. Someone I care deeply about, he doesn’t want me to do this, and he’s right to think that, but…”

“But, you still want to go?” the woman asked.

“I do!” Cadence said earnestly, looking into the woman’s blue eyes, “I, I know I’ll be a burden! I’m going to make mistakes! I don’t know the first thing about combat! But, but, why should I be safe and sound when people I love, when my very Kingdom is fighting for survival?!” Cadence asked, tearing up again, “I need to, no, I want to fight too! I want to do my part to protect my Kingdom!”

The woman looked surprised, but then just smiled warmly, “And you know what? That right there is what makes you a worthy ruler in my eyes.”

“It, does?” Cadence asked softly. The woman nodded vigorously.

“Yeah, yeah! I mean, yeah it’s reckless, and you should definitely try to be safe about it, but, if you truly feel this strongly about what you’re doing, then, why wouldn’t you see it through?” the woman took Cadence’s hands, “I say, go. Follow your heart, Princess.”

“You… think I should just, go…?” Cadence asked.

“I do. I can feel the love you have for your people, and I know it’s that same love that’s pushing you forward now. So long as love guides you, you’ll never be lead astray, Princess. Not with a heart as pure as yours.”

(insert song: Rainy Season, Wheat Wind - Atelier Ryza)

Cadence looked down smiling, “You, make it sound so easy. No, maybe it is that easy. Alright then. I… I’m going to follow my heart. Thank you, um…”

“Pinkamena,” the woman introduced herself, “My friends, which I hope can extend to you, call me Pinkie Pie.”

“Pinkie Pie,” Cadence smiled at her new friend, “Then, call me Cadence. That’s what my friends call me.”

Pinkie Pie smiled kindly, “It’s wonderful to meet you then, Cadence,” she then hugged the Princess again, “No matter what, know that at the very least, I believe in you.”

“That, means more to me than I can express,” Cadence said returning the hug, “Thank you, Pinkie Pie.” she released the hug, and stood up, secretly pulling out her Solar Phone, “I’m going to protect the Maidens, with my power!”

And with that she ran off, unaware that Pinkie Pie’s eyes widened hearing what Cadence just said.

“She… she’s one of…” Pinkie Pie placed a hand over her heart, smiling warmly, “May the Goddess protect you, always.”

Cadence returned to her room, where she changed out of her gown into something else. An outfit she never thought she’d wear, but always wanted to. This outfit consisted of a fancy pink and black blouse that emphasized her bust very tastefully and enticingly, a white mini skirt, white gloves, and white high heeled boots. She placed her tiara on her head and looked in the mirror at herself, tightening her fists in determination.

She nodded to her reflection, and turned to the door, where she saw Octavia leaning against the door, her leg blocking her way out.

“Octavia,” Cadence warned, “Don’t stop me.”

“That depends,” Octavia said, “What are you planning?”

“You know what I’m planning,” Cadence said, “I’m going after them. Because, I’m a Power Ranger too! I don’t care if Shining Armor thinks I’m safer here! And I get it, he’s worried about me ending up like Twilight. But, if we don’t act now, then the Nightmares will have the Maiden of Generosity along with Twilight.” she looked at Octavia earnestly, “I have the power to help stop this, and I won’t let anyone tell me not to use it! Not you, and not Shining Armor!”

Octavia nodded, pursing her lips thoughtfully.

“I don’t want to do this,” she walked over to Octavia and looked her dead in the eyes, “But I will use my authority as your Princess, and order you to let me pass if I have to.”

Octavia closed her eyes and smiled, “There’s no need, Your Majesty,” she said lowering her leg, and then getting on one knee before her Princess, “I may be a Power Ranger too, but I am loyal to you first and foremost. If my Princess wishes to see this through, then as a knight, I must follow her.”

“O-Octavia…” Cadence said with wide eyes. Octavia rose to her feet and elegantly kissed Cadence’s knuckles.

“Now come, Princess Cadence! Our team needs us!” Octavia proclaimed with a brilliant smile, one that Cadence returned.

Watching them leave the castle from the reflection of the Crystal Heart, Celestia nodded, smiling in approval. She knew Cadence would do the right thing ultimately. She then looked over at Applejack, who was currently sitting with her back pressed against the wall trying not to panic, and failing miserably.

“Now then,” Celestia muttered to herself, “What do I do about this little issue?”

end song

Back in the cave, Spike and Rarity continued to move through the halls, staying hidden as much as possible. That was getting increasingly harder though, as it seemed the Nightmares were getting agitated.

“What are the odds you think, that they know I’m not locked up in that room anymore…?” Rarity asked quietly.

“Being completely honest?” Spike whispered, “I’d say it’s getting higher by the second,” he looked out, “Shit, get down!” he ordered, pushing Rarity to the ground as the monster guarding Rarity walked down the hall, two Wisps with him.

“I don’t care what state she’s in, just find her and bring her back to me, pronto!” Canis Minor ordered, “Big Bro can’t find out how badly I messed up!”

“And just how badly did you mess up?” Spike heard another monster ask. He looked up to see another monster similar to the one guarding Rarity before, except wearing all black, his clothes significantly more sophisticated looking.

“Um… Major! Look, I can explain! I just took a quick nap, see! Like, only for a few minutes! But when I woke up, the Maiden wasn’t there anymore!”

“What?!” Canis Major shouted, “You let the Maiden escape! You idiot! The Rangers are here now! Chrysalis has two of them in her sights, but there might be more!”

“Don’t worry! I got the Wisps searchin’ for her!” Canis Minor said.

“That’s good. We’re searching too,” Canis Major ordered. His little brother saluted animatedly.

“Yes, Major!” the two monsters and their Wisps all scattered around.

“Well, that answers that question,” Spike muttered, looking down to see the position he and Rarity were in. She was laying on her back, and he was laying over her. Again, with her current state of undress…

“So, w-where to now?” Rarity asked, blushing in a way that showed that she understood the significance of their current position.

“Um, w-well we should begin searching for my comrades, I guess,” Spike answered slowly, “That and, um…”

“Finding, a way out of here?” Rarity tried.

“Yeah, yeah, that. That’s important,” Spike said, carefully rising to his feet and letting Rarity get up, “For safety reasons, you should take your heels off. Just in case we need to run.”

Rarity bit her lip hearing that, but relented, “Fair point. I can run in heels, but not very fast, sadly,” she kicked them off and bent over to pick them up, unaware that Spike got a great view of her bosom as she did that, “Here you go,” she said handing them to Spike.

“Thanks,” Spike said, hoping she didn’t notice how much he was blushing, “Let’s get moving then.”

“Hey!” Canis Minor called out suddenly, “There she is! And she’s got someone with her!”

(insert song: Feel My Blade - Final Fantasy 9)

“Time to go!” Spike grabbed Rarity’s arm and ran down the pathway, fully aware that there were Wisps and that monster following them.

“Spike!” Rarity cried, looking behind them.

“Don’t worry!” Spike urged, “I promise, I won’t let them get to you!” he pulled out his Solar Phone, wondering if this could call anyone. He remembered Macintosh’s transformation frequency, so what if…

Macintosh delivered an epic spin kick to one Wisp, using the momentum to sweep another off his feet. He jumped to his feet and punched one in the stomach, knocking it back. Another grabbed him from behind, but he threw it over his shoulder, and then flipped down over top of the Wisp in a drop kick to the stomach and chest.

Shining Armor held up his arm to block an attack from a Wisp, threw him off of him, and then drew his sword and delivered a series of powerful slashes to that same Wisp, who then fell to the ground. He turned around delivering a spin slash to three Wisps behind him, and then did a sweeping kick to three more behind him.

He then moved away from the Wisps, now standing back to back with Macintosh. The two of them had managed to make it through the cave a bit, but they were being relentlessly hounded by the Nightmares, and were both getting visibly exhausted.

“There’s, no end, to these things!” Shining panted.

Chrysalis’ annoying laugh echoed behind them. “Give up, Power Rangers!” she taunted, “That last victory was just a fluke! You’re powerless against our might!”

Macintosh growled in frustration at that. He was NOT about to concede defeat! Not now! Not like this! Just as he was about to say something, his Solar Phone rang. He pulled it out and opened it, holding it to his ear.

“Hey! This you, Big Mac!”

“Spike?!” Macintosh asked, catching Shining’s attention.

“I found Rarity! She’s with me now! But we’re on the run from a powerful Nightmare and some mooks!”

“Got it! Jus’ keep movin’!” Macintosh commanded, “Shinin’ an’ I’ll find ya, an’ catch up!”

“Don’t let me down, big guy!” Spike urged, before hanging up.

“Spike’s found ‘er.” Macintosh told Shining.

“Wait, he found the Maiden?!” Shining looked down wide eyed, “Then… Spike was right?”

“It doesn’t matter!” Chrysalis said, “You three will never leave this cave alive with the Maiden!”

“Wanna bet?!” Macintosh called out, “Shinin’ we need to move!”

“Move where?” Shining asked, harshly, “It’s not like we know the layout!”

“No, but Spike’s lookin’ for us!” Macintosh said, “If we move now, knowin’ his luck, he’ll catch up with us, an’ then hopefully he can get us outta here!”

Shining growled to himself, but nodded, “Fine. Let’s do it!”

The two men continued fighting the Wisps, this time focusing on pushing past them and leaving the area to hopefully run into Spike, a feat that they succeeded in partially doing after a few seconds.

“After them!” Chrysalis commanded. The Wisps gave chase as the two young men ran deeper into the caves.

“So, that pacifism thing,” Spike asked as he and Rarity ran, “Is that a hard limit or something?”

“Not sure what you mean, but the way I see it, all it means is I can’t kill anyone with my own power!” Rarity answered.

“Good enough for me!” Spike nodded, seeing three Wisps in front of them, “Do you trust me?”

“With my life!” Rarity answered honestly. Spike tilted his head, taking that in.

“Not sure that’s entirely wise, but I can work with it for now!” he took Rarity’s hands and spun around, throwing her out while holding her hands, letting her kick the Wisps back. He then used the momentum to kick them to the ground himself, never once letting go of Rarity’s hands. With the path cleared, the two of them rushed down the hall.

“You won’t get away!” Canis Minor shouted running after them. He then threw a punch at the two of them, sending a sharp ball of air at the two of them, knocking both of them to the ground. Spike quickly scampered to his feet and moved Rarity behind him, glaring at the monster, “You supposed to be a Power Ranger?! You don’t look too tough!”

“Yeah? Well looks can be deceiving!” Spike said pulling his Solar Phone out, trembling a bit, “Damn it…! Should I do it now?”

Rarity swallowed nervously, noticing that her savior looked rather scared. Also, what was that golden artifact he held in his hand so tightly? Was it some kind of communication device?

“Spike!” Macintosh called out, he and Shining Armor standing in front of him and Rarity, the latter of the two with his sword drawn and pointing it forward.

“Boy, am I glad to see you two!” Spike said.

“Good job with the Maiden, I guess,” Shining shook it off, “Listen, do your luck thing and get us out of here!”

“Wait, seriously?” Spike asked wide eyed, “You want me to-”

“YES!” Shining shouted, “Macintosh believes in you, and I’m willing to as well! So just get us out of here now!”

Spike nodded, and looked around. There was only one path, and he felt pretty good about it. He nodded and pointed to it, “There! To the left!”

“Let’s move!” Macintosh commanded. The four of them ran out of the cave, fully aware that now all the nightmares were following them closely. As they ran down the small tight corridors, they naturally ran into a bit of resistance here and there, but between the three Rangers, they were able to push past them with ease.

Rarity followed them closely, never once letting go of Spike’s hands. All three of them were impressive, but it was Spike that truly held her attention. She’d heard the name “Spike Dragneel” before, and so she knew exactly who he was. The stories mentioned that he was a dangerous, selfish, and shameless rogue.

And yet, he still saved her…

After what felt like the longest minutes of any of their lives, the four of them finally made it out of the cave outside. Somehow, they managed to make out the same way they came in.

end song

Spike laughed, and then turned to Macintosh and Shining, giving them high fives, “WHOO!!! We did it!”

“Great work, Spike!” Macintosh said, wrapping an arm around Spike, “I knew ya could do it!”

“Yeah, yeah, that was cool, I’ll admit.” Shining rolled his eyes.

Rarity chuckled looking at them, but then looked back at the cave’s entrance, “Everyone, look out!”

They all looked too late as electricity shot out at all of them, knocking them to the ground.

“You’re not out of the woods yet,” Chrysalis said, sauntering out of the cave with Canis Major and Canis Minor flanking her, “Now, I’ll give you Rangers a chance to leave here alive. Give the Maiden to us, and we won’t kill you.”

“Not a chance!” Macintosh said, standing between Chrysalis and Rarity, Shining and Spike flanking him, “If you want her, you’ve gotta go through us!”

Sunburst looked over at the Crystal Heart, “Applejack, look! They’re out!”

“They are?!” Applejack shot to her feet and ran beside Sunburst, seeing Macintosh, Shining Armor, and Spike standing in front of her fellow Maiden, “Macintosh!”

“This isn’t good!” Sunburst said, “The three of them alone can’t handle this!”

“They won’t be alone,” Celestia said, stepping forward to see herself, “Their comrades are on their way.”

As the Wisps charged at them, Cadence and Octavia flipped over the boys, and kicked the Wisps back before landing in front of them.

“Octavia! Cadence!” Macintosh cried out happily.

“What are you doing here?!” Shining asked walking up to Cadence, “It isn’t sa-” he was stopped by Cadence holding up her hand to his face.

“I’m not Twilight,” Cadence said, “I’m a Power Ranger, and I want to fight beside you. Now you can either accept me as a comrade,” she looked him dead in the eyes, “Or you can move aside. Either way, I’m fighting.”

“Sorry Commander,” Octavia shrugged, “Besides, it seems like you need a full team for this, anyway.”

Shining looked down seriously, considering this. Right now, his entire operation was falling apart. He looked at Macintosh, and found himself wondering. If Macintosh was the leader, would any of this have happened…?

“Ugh! No, no, NO!” Chrysalis screamed, throwing her arms down in a bratty fashion, even stomping her feet, “Three or five, it doesn’t matter! Major! Minor! Destroy these so called Power Rangers so we can get that Maiden to the Underworld and be done with this mission!”

“Yes, Chrysalis,” Canis Major said stepping forward.

“You got it, Chrysalis!” Canis Minor said, stepping up beside his brother.

“Shinin’ what are we doin’?” Macintosh asked.

“I…” he grimaced, “I think, you should take over as leader, Macintosh!”

Macintosh’s eyes widened, “Hang on, what?!”

“You trusted Spike, and I know you wouldn’t have benched Cadence,” Shining admitted, “This entire mission almost failed because of my pride, so please, just take over.”

Macintosh looked at everyone else, getting nods of confirmation from them. They all, believed in him. They wanted him to be their leader.

(insert song: Jupiter's Lightning - Child of Light)

He nodded to them, and moved into the center, “We’re sending you back to the Underworld where you belong! Ready?” he asked pulling out his Solar Phone and typing in his code.

HERCULES!!!

“Ready!” Shining and Octavia shouted at the same time, inputting their codes.

PEGASUS!!!

PHOENIX!!!

“Ready!” Spike and Cadence shouted in unison, typing their codes and holding up their Solar Phones.

DRACO!!!

LYNX!!!

“CELESTIAL GUARD!!!” the five shouted in unison, waving their phones before pointing them to the sky, “STAND UP!!!”

~Transformation Sequence~

Macintosh threw his arms out as Celestia’s symbol appeared on his chest. He then held up his hands as the large red aura of Hercules appeared around him in the same position, along with a bright light shining from above on top of him. Hercules vanished into a collection of stars, and shrunk down to form into his Ranger Armor. He then lowered his arms as the light vanished, forming his helmet to end the transformation.

Shining Armor, Octavia, Spike, and Cadence all threw their arms out as Celestia’s symbol appeared on their chests. They, like their leader, held their arms into the air as large auras representing Pegasus, Phoenix, Draco, and Lynx all hovered over them along with the same bright light shining down over top of them. Their auras vanished in the stars, and shrunk down onto their bodies to form their armors, and then the light vanished to form their helmets, ending their transformations at the same time.

~End Transformation Sequence~

“With the Strength of Hercules, Celestial Guard Red!” Macintosh shouted, standing proudly with his sword drawn and held forward.

“With the Speed of the Pegasus, Celestial Guard Blue!” Shining Armor shouted, holding his sword up to his face and hunched forward, ready to charge.

“With the Passion of the Phoenix, Celestial Guard Yellow!” Octavia proclaimed, drawing her sword and holding it to her side elegantly, standing with her head held high.

“With the Power of the Dragon, Celestial Guard Green!” Spike shouted, holding his sword over his shoulder almost arrogantly and motioning with his free hand in a “come get some” manner.

“With the Courage of the Lynx, Celestial Guard Pink!” Cadence shouted, holding her sword more back handed and hunching forward in an almost cat like stance.

“We are the knights chosen by the Light of the Sun!" all five proclaimed at the same time, holding their weapons out in the middle of them "Power Rangers! Celestial Guard!” the rangers held their swords up, slashed down in unison, and then posed at the ready as the ground behind them exploded.

Rarity’s eyes widened and she stepped back, unsure how to process what she just witnessed. This divine armor, she could feel it. Something about this felt like Celestia.

“This, this is what you meant...” she said, remembering her dream, “These are your warriors…!”

“Celestial Guard! Attack!” Macintosh commanded, leading the charge as the team broke up into two teams: Macintosh and Shining handling Canis Major, and Octavia, Spike, and Cadence fighting Canis Minor.

Canis Major threw a punch at Shining Armor, but the Blue Ranger moved to the side out of the way of the attack, spun around and kicked his fist away as Macintosh rushed in and side kicked the monster back.

Major stumbled back a bit, and the two Rangers thrust their Celestial Blades forward at the monster, who then took the attacks, only to grab the arms holding the blades.

“What?!” Shining cried in shock, Macintosh grimacing as Canis Major laughed.

“I’m not like that idiot Taurus,” Major said, “I’m more than some mindless brute!” he then let go, just to punch both Rangers back onto the ground. He then slammed his foot on the ground, creating lightning that shot down over Macintosh and Shining Armor, sending them into the air screaming in agony before the slammed onto the ground.

Canis Major laughed, walking over to the writhing Rangers, “That Maiden is ours!”

Rarity swallowed nervously, backing up against a tree as she braced herself. Whatever these five turned into, the Nightmares still had the upper hand.

As for Canis Minor, he threw punch after punch at Spike and Cadence, sending powerful wind bullets their way. The Green and Pink Rangers rolled out of the way of their attacks as Octavia rushed in with her bow pointed forward.

She fired golden shots rapidly at the dog Nightmare, only for him to block the attacks almost perfectly. Octavia gave an enraged scream as she continued to rush into Canis Minor, now using her bow like a double sided blade and slashing at the monster, surprisingly getting some damage in, and even knocking him back. Cadence gave a mighty cry as she jumped into the air with her claws already summoned. She then did a powerful downward slash, the claws now engulfed in a pink and purple aura that knocked Canis Minor to the ground.

He rolled to his feet quickly, but held up his hands to block as Spike came in with his ax swinging horizontally.

“This one’s for Rarity!” he shouted, pushing the blade through his arms knocking him back. Spike then charged up his weapon, lifted it, and swung it down at full power, leaving a sharp green trail behind it. This attack did massive damage to the younger of the dog monsters, who then fell to one knee before pounding his fist on the ground.

“I’ve had it with you!” he fumed before standing up. He then spun around turning into a tornado that raced around all three Rangers, who were damaged by both the sharp winds and the Nightmare inside. The three of them fell to the ground like the Red and Blue Rangers.

Cadence turned around, and then held her arm out, “Guys…! Chrysalis is making a break for Rarity!”

Sure enough, Chrysalis was now making her way toward Rarity with a manic grin. The Maiden herself was frozen in fear.

“Rarity, RUN!!!” Spike shouted, catching her attention.

Rarity seemed hesitant for some reason, but she relented and tried to run away, only for Chrysalis to throw out her hand, firing a green beam at Rarity that wrapped around her body, hardening into green chains that made it impossible to run, causing her to fall to the ground.

“Time’s almost up, Maiden of Generosity,” Chrysalis taunted, “Once we take care of these Ranger pests, I’m sending you to the Underworld, where the real fun can begin~”

As the witch laughed, Rarity struggled with her bindings, eventually screaming in pure terror.

“SPIKE!!! HELP ME!!!”

“Rarity!” Spike wanted to run off, but then looked back at his two teammates, who’d be left to fight Minor alone.

“Sir Dragneel, go!” Octavia shouted, “Your lady needs you!”

Spike looked down, but then nodded to Octavia, “Right! Good luck, you two!” he then ran off. Octavia smiled peacefully behind her helmet. Seemed Spike truly was more than just a petty thief.

Before Chrysalis could reach Rarity, Spike’s ax slammed down between the two of them, “I don’t think so!” he shouted, kicking Chrysalis back, and then lifting his ax over his shoulder in a ready stance.

“You have no obligation to protect her, thief!” Chrysalis shouted, “Why risk your life for her?! Hoping the two of you can become romantic partners? Why would she ever want anything to do with a lowly thief like you?!”

As she spoke, Spike looked down, tightening the grip of his ax. Rarity looked up at Spike with saddened eyes, as if she were almost seeing him truly for the first time now.

“You’re no hero! You’re a scoundrel! A scavenger! Tell you what,” Chrysalis folded her arms smiling, “If you give her to us, I’ll let you have some fun with her before we take her to the Underworld~”

“You know, you’re right about me,” Spike said softly, “I am a petty thief. Have been since I was a kid. My Mother blessed me with the luck of the Goddess, and the first thing I ever did with that gift was take from others, knowing I’d never get caught.” whether he was laughing or crying behind his Helmet, it was impossible for anyone to tell, “Even now, I don’t actually know why I’m here,” behind him, the screams from his comrades, and their various battle cries were heard as they continued to fight the monster brothers, “Those guys? They all have reasons to be here. They’re the ones who should be here protecting Rarity from you, not me.”

Chrysalis’ smile widened as she anticipated her victory, “So you get it, then.”

“But, the same luck that gave me everything I ever wanted, is the same luck that brought me here, wearing this armor. Armor I probably don’t deserve,” Spike continued, placing a hand over his heart, “And right now, the woman behind me needs a hero, and since I’m standing here,” somehow, he pulled out his lucky coin and flipped it, the coin landing on heads, “lady luck says I’m just going to have to be that hero!” he turned to Rarity smirking behind his helmet, “Sorry miss, guess the real hero was late to the party.”

Rarity shook her head smiling, “He came, right on time.”

Spike nodded, and got in his fighting stance. Chrysalis growled in anger.

“I hate you, I hate you, I hate you, I HATE YOU!!!” Chrysalis screamed at Spike, “Fine then! I’ll just have to kill you first!”

“I’ve been in a race with death for 20 years! He hasn’t caught up yet, so just try your luck!”

The two green warriors charged at each other, and their violent battle began, with Chrysalis dodging ever swing of Spike’s ax, and landing a few kicks and slashes with her claws. Still, Spike stood firm, ensuring that she didn’t get anywhere near Rarity, who despite her predicament, seemed to relax a bit. Spike would keep her safe. She knew he would.

Macintosh and Shining Armor had both summoned their Divine Weapons, and were now trading blows with Canis Major. After a bit, Major grabbed both Rangers and slammed them into each other before punching them back, causing the two of them to roll on the floor to their feet.

“He’s good,” Shining noted, “Really good.”

“Yeah, he is. So we just need to fight smarter, not harder,” Macintosh stated, “Follow my lead.”

Shining looked at Macintosh intently, and then nodded, “Alright. I trust you, Mac.”

Macintosh looked at Shining suddenly, and then looked down sobered before nodding and looking at Canis Major as he approached them.

“Here, I’ve something for you! Think you’ll get a charge out of it!” Major shouted, slamming his foot on the ground to create another lightning storm. This time, the two Rangers rolled out of the way on either sides, “What?!”

“Canis Major! Over here!” Macintosh shouted, charging up his Divine Blade with red energy, holding his Celestial Saber in his other hand and crossing blades.

Canis Major backed away from him, but then heard Shining give a powerful cry of determination. He turned around to see Shining swinging his spear around at high speed, charging it with light blue electric energy and ending by spinning the lance above his head.

“Ready?!” Macintosh asked his partner.

“Now!” Shining shouted back.

On one side, Macintosh slashed down with both blades at the same time in an X formation. On the other side, Shining threw his lance into Canis Major, making the electrified weapon spin, turning it into an electric wheel of pain. Both attacks collided with Canis Major at the same time, making the dog monster scream in agony, falling to one knee.

“This, is this really it?” Canis Major asked, for the first time in his life beginning to fear for his life. These Power Rangers, did they really have Celestia’s blessing?

Canis Minor on the other hand, was once again flying around the battlefield, aiming for both the Yellow and Pink Rangers, who this time rolled out of the way of most of the attacks. Octavia rolled to one knee and charged up an arrow, letting it fly into the tornado, knocking Canis Minor onto the ground.

“Uh oh! WHOA!” he screamed, slamming into the ground and slowly getting to his feet, “Ugh, I’m starting to think we’re totally fucked, Big Bro!”

“Congratulations!” Cadence shouted, “That’s the smartest thing you’ve said all day!

She slashed wildly with her claws, and then spun around to kick Canis Minor, and then delivered two sideways kicks back to back into his stomach. She then slashed down just as Octavia ran up and slashed upward with her blade, causing the monster to fall to his back in pain.

“I’m doing it! I’m actually doing it!” Cadence cried happily, jumping for joy. Octavia walked over to her and placed a hand on her shoulder laughing.

“I knew you had it in you, Cadence!” Octavia said.

Spike and Chrysalis were still going at it. Every so often, the witch would make a grab for the still bound Rarity, but Spike would either kick her hand away, or swing with his ax, forcing the green haired witch to have to move away unless she wanted to get beheaded. Spike swung his ax in wide arcs, eventually knocking her back enough to charge up his weapon. He then slashed horizontally with his ax, doing massive damage to Chrysalis. The dark witch fell back, and the chains holding Rarity vanished.

“Rarity!” Spike ran over to kneel beside her as the Maiden sat up, “Are you okay?”

Rarity nodded smiling, “Yes, I am. Thanks to you, Spike Dragneel, Luckiest Man Alive.”

“You, knew, didn’t you?” Spike asked helping her up, “You knew that I was-” she placed a finger where she assumed his mouth was in his helmet, somehow stopping him mid-sentence.

“Later, after you’ve dealt with those monsters,” Rarity said with a gentle smile, “Go. Your friends need you.”

Spike nodded, and ran back to join his friends in their fights. Rarity watched as he joined with his fellow Rangers, pressing a finger to her lips smiling. Yes. He was the one she picked. No one else would do now.

The Canis Brothers collided with each other as the five Rangers all grouped up, weapons at the ready.

“Alright! Time to end this!” Macintosh commanded, “Form the Starforce Cannon!” Octavia’s bow was held out, followed by Spike’s ax placed on top of it. Shining’s spear was broken in half and connected to the ends of the bow, followed by Cadence’s claws. Finally, Macintosh placed his sword at the top to complete the weapon, which magically held together as he held it up proudly. At his immediate sides stood Cadence and Octavia, and behind them were Shining and Spike.

“I’m scared, bro!” Canis Minor cried.

“They don’t have the guts!” Canis Major taunted.

“Wanna bet?” Macintosh asked as Octavia and Cadence put their hands on his shoulders, followed by Spike and Shining putting their hands on the shoulders of Octavia and Cadence, all Rangers sending their energy into Macintosh, “FIRE!!!”

Macintosh pulled the trigger, and fired a golden beam at the monsters, piercing through both of them and causing them to writhe in pain, before falling to the ground. The Celestial Guard turned their back to their opponents, Macintosh still holding the Starforce Cannon as a massive explosion signaled the death of their foes.

Rarity ran over to them, wrapping her arms around Spike, “Hey there!”

“You did it! You save me!” Rarity beamed, stepping back and bowing to the Celestial Guard, “Thank you! All of you!”

Macintosh shook his head, “I should be thankin’ you. Ya sacrificed yourself to save my sister,” he held out his hand, “The name’s Macintosh. Friends call me Mac.”

“Mmm, Mac, you say? I take it you’re the leader of this Celestial Guard?” Rarity asked.

Macintosh looked back at his team, his eyes lingering on Octavia, who he could tell was looking at him intently. He then turned back to Rarity and smiled behind his helmet.

“Yeah, I am.”

Octavia closed her eyes and smiled, releasing the breath she’d been holding in.

“Don’t, celebrate yet, Power Rangers!” Chrysalis said, leaning against a tree and holding her chest. The Rangers all took their weapons back and turned around to face the dark witch.

“Haven’t had enough yet?!” Macintosh asked. Spike moved Rarity further behind everyone, glaring at Chrysalis.

“I still have one final trick up my sleeve,” Chrysalis said, pushing off the tree and standing up straight as a dark magical circle with a crescent moon appeared at her feet, “The Lunar Seal gives us more than just the ability to leave the Underworld. Allow me to demonstrate, it’s TRUE PURPOSE!” she held up her hand, and a powerful black aura pushed all of the Rangers and Rarity back a bit, “Oh Goddess of Darkness! Grant your fallen children second life!”

The same seals appeared on the remains of Canis Major and Canis Minor, and said remains began to glow a sickly green. They then pulled themselves together, and then scarily enough, grew to the size of a very tall building! The two monsters laughed in triumph and stomped on the ground, just to emphasize how much bigger and stronger they were.

The Rangers all stepped back, eyes wide as they looked up in shock and horror at what just happened. Made worse with Chrysalis’ laugh cutting in.

“Let’s see how you Power Rangers handle this!” Chrysalis taunted, “Canis Brothers! Destroy them, and recapture the Maiden!”

“With pleasure!” Canis Minor tried to punch the Rangers with his now massive fist, but they all rolled out of the way just in time, scattering a bit. Cadence and Spike both staying with Rarity.

“What are we going to do now?!” Cadence asked, “We can’t fight something this big!”

“I… I don’t know!” Macintosh admitted, tightening his fists in frustration, “Spike! What does your intuition say?”

“Best solution? Pray for a miracle!” Spike said, holding up his ax to protect Cadence and Rarity as Canis Major slammed his foot on the ground again, creating an even bigger lighting storm that hit everyone save for Rarity. The Rangers all flew into the air from the massive explosive impact, and then landed on the ground writhing in pain.

Once again, Chrysalis laughed arrogantly, “Give it up, Power Rangers!” she taunted, “The Maiden of Generosity is coming with us!”

“Spike, everyone, please get up!” Rarity urged them, kneeling beside Spike and shaking him, “Please!” Spike groaned as he slowly stood up, “Spike!”

“Rarity, you need to run,” Spike said, “You can’t let those monsters take you!”

Rarity shook her head, “I can’t leave you, Spike! You’re my knight! I need you!”

“Rarity, I know you’re scared, but if you stay here, you could get hurt, or captured by Chrysalis,” Spike said, gripping her arm urgently, “Please, Rarity. Please run away.”

Rarity shook her head again, “I’m not leaving you, Spike!”

“Damn it, Rarity…” Spike looked down, both touched and annoyed at her dedication.

“Macintosh!” Applejack cried, she, Celestia, and Sunburst still watching everything from the Crystal Heart, “Celestia, please! There’s gotta be somethin’ I can do!”

“You’re not going out there, Applejack!” Sunburst said firmly, “It’s too dangerous for you!”

“But, I have to do something!” Applejack cried, turning back to the fight, watching as the Rangers did their best to dodge the two giants’ attacks, “He’s protected me for years, and all I’ve ever been to him is a burden! Now he could die, an’ all I can do is watch?! No, no, NO!” she held her head tightly and shook it, “I have to help my brother! Please, Celestia! Help me! I can’t lose him!”

Celestia walked over to Applejack and placed her hands on her shoulders. When Applejack looked up, she was greeted with a tender smile.

“My Maiden of Honesty, my Daughter, you have more power than you realize. Focus your love for your brother, and your virtue, onto the Hercules Constellation your brother is bound to. Understand this may be taxing for you, but if your heart is strong, it will give your brother the edge he needs.”

Applejack nodded, and got on one knee, holding her hands together in prayer, “I, Applejack Scarlet, Maiden of Honesty, hereby give all that I am to the one chosen by Hercules. Please,” Applejack begged tearfully, “Just save my brother. Please.”

(insert song: toshitake toryu - Blue Reflection)

With that, Applejack began to glow a bright red, turned into a ball of light, and shot into the sky.

“Whoa!” Sunburst cried holding out his hand, “C-Celestia! Applejack is-”

“She will be fine, Sunburst,” Celestia assured, “She will be in the one place she is certainly safe.”

“That place being…?” Sunburst asked.

“Wherever her older brother is,” Celestia said with the proudest smile. To see one of her Maidens take such action, for the one they love, now she knew that they could protect the Maidens, and possibly one day, rescue her second half as well.

The Rangers all slowly rose to their feet, but looked like they were hitting the end of their rope. So far, all they’d been able to do is survive, and they barely managed that. Octavia looked up at the sky, and saw something rather odd, “W-what’s going on?”

All the Rangers looked up, as did the Canis Brothers funnily enough. They then saw in the sky, the Hercules constellation glowing, and a red star shooting in to join it. The constellation then exploded in a bright and brilliant light. A full image of Hercules appeared in the sky in a powerful pose, and then shot down onto the ground with the force of a meteor, knocking the Canis Brothers back.

Chrysalis covered her face from the impact, and then looked up, eyes widening in horror, “What in the world?!”

All the Rangers looked up, and saw the oddest sight. Standing on one knee was what could only be described by them as a metallic titan of sorts. It took the form of a powerful looking warrior in red and golden armor, a large broadsword at its side and piercing red eyes. The face looked almost like it was bearded.

“What is it…?” Shining asked slowly getting up.

“Whatever it is, it’s impressive,” Octavia said softly.

“Guys, I feel something divine and familiar coming off of this thing,” Cadence said, “I don’t know why, but this titan… it feels like Applejack!”

“My sister?” Macintosh asked.

Macintosh!

Macintosh looked up in shock, “Applejack! That you? Where are ya?!”

It’s fine, Mac. I’m inside the titan, sorta.

“Inside…?” Macintosh asked, looking up at the titan.

“Whoa! You mean Applejack is inside that thing?!” Spike asked, everyone looking up at the titan in shock. Everyone save for Rarity, who was looking at Spike intently.

If we work together, we can beat these two! So come on, Big Brother!

“Applejack...” Macintosh said looking down, smiling, “Always were stubborn, wantin’ to help. Well, who am I to turn down good help?” Macintosh leaped into the air, being caught in a golden light coming off the titan. He then found himself in an odd room. The walls were white and made of some sort of crystal, and before him was what looked almost like a control panel, but there was just a glowing light before him, “This is...”

The name, Hercules Zord keeps echoin’ in my head.

Every syllable Applejack spoke, the room glowed red briefly. It was as if Applejack were all around him.

“Jus, tell me one thing, sis,” Macintosh looked down, “All this, can be undone, right?” his sister’s chuckle echoed all around him, along with the room lighting up to match.

Don’t worry, Big Bro. Y’all got your Morphin’ thing, an’ I got mine now. Jus’, mine’s on a whole other scale it seems.

“Alright, good,” Macintosh sighed in relief, and then held a hand out over the control panel, “Then let’s finish this, together!”

Right!

The Hercules Zord’s eyes glowed, and it slowly rose to its feet and drew its sword.

“Doesn’t matter what new toys you get!” Canis Major taunted, “We still have you outnumbered two to one!”

The Zord slowly circled its opponents, who also circled it, keeping it in their sights. The two dog Nightmares charged at the Titan, and began fighting it close quarter. The Hercules Zord blocked most of their attacks, and delivered a few slashes of its own to Minor, but then Major punched it in the back, followed by Minor kicking it in the chest.

Inside the titan, Macintosh lurched forward from the impact, both he and Applejack crying out in shock from the impact.

“Sis, are ya alright?” Macintosh asked.

Y-yeah, I don’t feel pain like this, but I do feel a bit light headed from that.

“Damn!” Macintosh swore, slamming his fist on the pedestal. They needed to even the odds somehow.

“You’re finished, Red Ranger!” Major shouted, slamming his foot on the ground and creating another lightning storm. As the Hercules Zord wasn’t very fast, and Macintosh was still getting the hang of how to fight with it, he and Applejack took the brunt of that attack.

“The Maidens are coming with us!” Minor added, spinning around and creating another tornado, hitting the red titan from all sides and eventually knocking it onto the ground.

“Macintosh is in danger!” Cadence cried, “Even with this, we still can’t beat them!”

“If only we could even the odds a bit!” Octavia fussed looking down, “What are we going to do?!”

“Spike, I need to ask you something,” Rarity said, walking over to the Green Ranger and taking his hand, “Why did you save me from Chrysalis?”

“I, I did it for two reasons. One, I’ll admit, you are the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen. But also,” Spike looked down, “You make me feel like, like I can do this. Like maybe, even if I’m a thief, I can be something more.”

Rarity placed a hand over her heart, and nodded, “I’ve heard all I needed to,” she said, stepping forward past all the Rangers.

(insert song: toshitake hein - Blue Reflection)

“Hang on, what are you doing?!” Shining Armor asked reaching for Rarity, “It isn’t safe!”

“You’re right, it isn’t,” Rarity agreed, “No matter where I go anymore, it isn’t safe,” Rarity looked down trembling, tears in her eyes, “Alright then, if that’s the only way I can put an end to this, then so be it,” she then got on her knees and closed her eyes, holding both hands together in prayer, “I, Rarity Belle, Maiden of Generosity, give all that I am to the one standing under the Draco Constellation! Mind, body, soul, take all of it! All I ask,” she stood up and held her hand to the sky, “IS THAT YOU GRANT HIM THE POWER TO FIGHT IN MY NAME!!!”

She then began to glow a bright green, and then shot into the sky like a meteor, flying into the Draco Constellation and becoming one with it. A ferocious dragon appeared in the sky over the constellation, and then like with the Hercules Zord, the image glowed and shot down before the Rangers, turning into something utterly terrifying.

This Zord was more beastly in nature, but still standing upright. It looked like a ferocious dragon with sharp claws, and terrifyingly sharp teeth, wearing green, white, and golden armor vaguely like a knight. Its tail was extremely long, and seemed to be designed to work as a drill or some sort of piercing weapon.*

“Well then,” Octavia folded her arms, “Wasn’t expecting this.”

Shining sighed shaking his head, “Alright, I give,” Shining Armor sighed shaking his head, “They beat me.”

Spike looked up at the titan before him, “This power, this is what Rarity and I can…?”

Well Spike? Don’t keep a girl waiting.

Spike held his head in surprise, and then slowly nodded, “Yeah, I get it. Let’s go!” like Macintosh, Spike leaped up to his Zord, getting picked up by a golden light before being transported into the cockpit.

“This is amazing,” Spike said looking around, “I can feel you, all around me, Rarity. It feels, it feels safer here than anywhere.”

That’s good. This means I can return the favor then.

Whenever Rarity spoke, the room glowed green to match her words. Oddly, that brought him an odd peace to see.

“Then what do you say we get some payback for how they treated you?” Spike asked, placing his hand over the control panel.

Gladly!

The eyes of the Draco Zord glowed an angry red, and the titan let out a truly terrifying sounding roar before charging at the two monsters.

“Whoa! Where did that one come from?!” Canis Minor cried once he noticed the new Zord charging toward them. Once it reached the Canis Brothers, it slashed Minor in the chest knocking him back, and then whacked Major far away into the trees with its tail.

“Whoa! Spike, is that you in there?” Macintosh asked.

“The one and only,” Spike folded his arms arrogantly, “You didn’t think Rarity and I were going to let you and AJ have all the fun, did you?”

Are you okay, darling?

Seems even now, you’re still protectin’ me, Rarity.

As Maidens, we’re sisters. We have to look out for each other.

The Draco Zord helped the Hercules Zord up, and the two Titans turned to face their opponents as they stood up.

Spike, let’s take on Minor, the younger brother. We should be able to withstand that tornado of his.

“Alright. I trust you. Macintosh, leave the younger twin to me and Rarity. You and AJ handle Major!” Spike said.

“You got it, Spike!” Macintosh nodded.

Okay!

The two monsters charged at the Zords, who both charged at the monsters in turn, meeting them half way. The Hercules Zord grappled with Major, eventually wrestling him away from Minor and the Draco Zord to give his comrades more room to fight.

“You know what this thing can do?” Spike asked his partner.

Well, that tail of ours seems dangerous. What do you say we put it to good use?

“Sounds good to me!” Spike nodded, placing his hand on the console and sending his intention to the Zord. The tail began to spin faster and faster, eventually turning into a dangerous looking drill. The Draco Zord turned to the side, and thrust its tail into Canis Minor, knocking him down onto the ground.

The draconic titan stomped over to Canis Minor as he was getting up and slashed a few times with its claws. The monster tried to block the attacks with a grunt, but they quickly made it through, causing sparks to fly off his body as he stumbled back.

“Ugh! Let’s try this, ya overgrown lizard!” he shouted, spinning around and turning into a tornado like before. Like Rarity said, though, the large and heavily armored Zord withstood the attack no problem, and even slashed into the wind, hitting Minor dead on and knocking him to the ground.

“Yes!” Cadence shouted jumping for joy, before hugging both Octavia and Shining, “They’re doing it! They’re actually winning!”

“The power of a Maiden and her Knight, fighting as one,” Octavia nodded, “Truly, I’ve never witnessed something so powerful in my life.”

“I wonder,” Shining said looking up with a sobered expression behind his helmet, “Could Twilight and I have, done this too…?”

“No! Little Brother!” Major shouted.

Hey! Pay attention, ya overgrown mutt!

Canis Major turned in time to see the Hercules Zord’s fist collide with his face.

“We’re the ones ya need to worry ‘bout!” Macintosh shouted as the Hercules Zord readied its sword.

“You really think, that this changes anything?!” Canis Major barked, “Even with your new power, you’re still only human!”

“No, you’re wrong,” Macintosh shook his head, still holding his hand over his console, “Cause now, my sister an’ I are fightin’ as one!”

An’ together, there’s nothin’ he an’ I can’t do!

The Hercules Zord charged at Canis Major, and began swinging its blade in powerful arcs at the creature. This time since he could focus on only one opponent, Macintosh’s blows seemed to hit home more.

Major eventually got a lucky punch in, knocking the red and gold titan back. He then stomped on the ground to create another lightning storm.

Big Bro!

“Yeah, I see it too! Give me a boost!” Macintosh requested.

Got it! Move, an’ I’ll cover ya!

The Hercules Zord rolled out of the way just in time, landing on one knee and pointing its sword forward, which was now glowing with golden energy.

NOW MACINTOSH!!!

Macintosh let out an enraged battle cry as a golden beam shot out of the tip into Canis Major, knocking him onto the ground just as the Draco Zord threw his little brother in the same direction. The two Zords moved to stand side by side, glaring angrily at the two monsters.

“Alright! Sis, Spike, Rarity, y’all ready to end this?” Macintosh asked his comrades.

Ready, Big Bro!

Trust me, I was ready days ago! Spike!

Spike nodded, “Yeah, I’m ready too! Let’s send these guys to oblivion where they belong!”

The Hercules Zord held its blade out and drew it in a wide circle as golden energy charged through it. Right beside it, the Draco Zord took a deep breath as energy gathered into its mouth.

“Hero’s Blade, full charge!” Macintosh and Applejack intoned at the same time. The Hercules Zord held its blade ready, and then delivered a powerful three hit combo slash from its blade.

“DRAGON’S RAGE!!!” Spike and Rarity roared in unison, firing a piercing blue beam from the Draco Zord’s mouth into the ground. The Zord then slowly lifted its head, causing the powerful beam to slowly rise up and pierce its foes.

Both attacks collided with the monsters at the same time, like before doing massive damage. The two monsters flailed their arms as cried in agony, falling to the ground as the Zords turned away, just as the Canis Brothers exploded.

“THEY DID IT!!!” Cadence cried happily, wrapping her arms around Shining Armor.

“No, we did it,” Shining smiled, wrapping an arm around Cadence, “All of us.”

“S-Shining…” Cadence looked at the Blue Ranger in surprise, eyes wide behind her helmet’s visor.

“You fought just as hard as us. I’m, proud to be fighting beside you, Your Majesty,” he said with clear reluctance, but was also smiling behind his helmet. Cadence sighed in relief and hugged Shining. This time, though hesitant, the young knight did hug her back.

Behind them, Octavia sighed in relief and then looked up at the two titans, “Yes, I’m sure of it now. We’re going to be just fine.”

The Hercules Zord sheathed its sword as the Draco Zord let out a mighty triumphant roar.

end song

Realizing she lost, Chrysalis ran off into the woods. Her eyes wide in terror after what she just witnessed. It was almost as if, the Goddess herself had come down and attacked them.

“Sombra, you will listen to me this time…!” Chrysalis insisted, tearing up, “Those Power Rangers… they’re dangerous…! They’ll ruin everything…!”

As she wasn’t bound by the same limitations as her fellow Nightmares, she simply cast her spell to return to the Underworld. She needed to report this.

Both Applejack and Rarity were exhausted once they returned to material state. So much that they fell out the second the titans returned to the stars. This prompted Shining to use his Solar Phone to get in touch with Sunburst, having him send a couple of carriages to take them back to the castle.

Surprisingly, Spike remained with Rarity the whole way, letting her rest her head on his lap. Something about the two of them just looked, right together.

As they rode to the castle, Macintosh had his arms wrapped around his sister as she rested. She summoned that titan, to keep him safe. He was always protecting her, and he knew that she wanted to do more to protect him. Perhaps he underestimated how much. He smiled warmly, and after a bit of hesitation, lifted her hand to kiss her knuckles tenderly.

“Thanks, for believin’ in me, Sis,” he said quietly. To him, she truly was the most beautiful woman in the world. Inside, and out.

After a while, once the carriages arrived at the castle, Rarity stirred and slowly opened her eyes.

“Rise and shine, Sleeping Beauty,” Spike said with a smile. She looked up to see Spike’s gentle smile greeting her, “So, got all of that out of your system?”

Rarity laughed softly, “Yes. I suppose I did go a little crazy there,” she sat up, now sitting beside Spike, “Never thought my hero would turn out to be the legendary thief Spike Dragneel, Luckiest Man Alive,” she said with an enigmatic smile.

“So, you do know,” Spike said looking down, “Sorry I’m not some gallant knight. But, now that we’re at the castle, I’m sure that you’ll find someone there to protect you. Someone better than some lowly rogue.”

“But, what if I don’t want that?” Rarity asked Spike, “What if, I’d rather have the so called “lowly rogue” as my eternal guardian?”

Spike’s eyes widened, and he turned to look at Rarity, “Wait. You mean, even knowing who I am, you want me to…”

“Spike, I knew who you were the moment I laid eyes on you,” Rarity admitted, “It didn’t matter then, and it doesn’t matter now. I’ve hired the best guards to keep me safe, but none of them were able to prevent my capture. You Spike,” she looked him dead in the eyes, “You managed to not only rescue me from a hopeless situation, but you also protected me from recapture.”

“Rarity…” Spike looked sobered, realizing what she was saying. His heart was racing, as he realized now that someone, might have stolen from him for once. This magnificent woman, she stole his heart.

“Spike Dragneel, I want you, to be my knight from now on,” Rarity continued, taking his hand and looking into his eyes earnestly, “No one else will do. It must be you.”

“You’ve, got a strange taste in knights,” Spike admitted, but then smiled, “But, if that’s how you feel, then who am I to say no?” Spike shook his head, “No, that’s wrong. I’d be honored to be your knight, Rarity Belle, Maiden of Generosity,” he took her hand and kissed her knuckle, “From now, and until the day my luck runs out, I will protect you with my life.”

“Hopefully it doesn’t come to that,” Rarity giggled, “It’d be a shame if you died on me. I rather enjoy your company, my draconic knight~”

Spike blushed from her tone, and then again as Rarity leaned in and kissed Spike on the cheek. She then rose to her feet, taking her high heels back, and put them back on turning to leave the carriage.

“Oh, and I don’t mind if you stare,” Rarity said, turning to Spike with an alluring gaze, “After all you did, the least I could do is allow you to enjoy the sight of me in such a state of undress.”

“Wait a second!” Spike cried in shock, “What do you mean by-” Rarity didn’t answer, instead walking out of the carriage. Spike did notice that she was moving her hips a bit more with each step, “No way. I’m a thief. There’s no way my luck is this good.”

“Rarity!” Applejack cried happily as the two of them embraced.

“Applejack!” Rarity cried, “I’m so relieved! I’d hoped you were safe!”

“Do y’all know each other?” Macintosh asked his sister. The second Rarity and Spike joined them in the Crystal Shrine, Applejack’s eyes lit up and she greeted Rarity with a sense of familiarity he’d not expected.

“Not, in this lifetime, but I can feel it,” Applejack looked into Rarity’s eyes, still holding onto her, “She an’ I, we were friends since before I was even born!”

Rarity nodded, “Yes, I feel it, too! I felt it the second I saw the Nightmares holding you captive! You and I, we’ve met and have been friends over many lifetimes!”

“If there was any doubt in my mind before, it’s gone now,” Sunburst admitted, “The Maidens really have existed for longer than all of us.”

“Did you still doubt, even after meeting me?” Celestia said, appearing from within the Crystal Heart, “I’m not sure how to feel about that, Sunburst.” she continued with a teasing smile.

“Gah! Um, Not at all, Mother Celestia!” Sunburst cried in shock, “I uh… I was just…!”

“Sunburst, she was screwing with you,” Spike pointed out, making everyone laugh, including Celestia.

“Wait, seriously…?” Sunburst turned to Celestia in shock.

“Even I have a sense of humor, Sunburst. Do try to remember that,” she then turned to look at Rarity, “Now, my Daughter of Generosity. How are you?”

“I’m, better now,” Rarity said, releasing Applejack and stepping forward, “But, now I can’t stop worrying about my Sisters in Harmony. Loyalty, Kindness, and Laughter, they’re all still out there. And according to the Nightmares that captured me, Faith is…”

Celestia looked grave, “Yes, unfortunately Sombra has managed to capture one of you. I do not know what her state is at the moment, but I know that for better and for worse, she is alive.”

Shining closed his eyes grimacing in pain. Macintosh took note of that and then turned to Celestia, “If we know where she is, can’t we… I dunno, with our new powers, we could-”

“As much, as I would love to send you to save my dear Child of Faith, it is too dangerous of a journey for you to take as of this moment,” Celestia said, eyes closed in pain, “Right now, our top priority needs to be securing the other Maidens that Sombra has NOT captured yet, along with protecting the Crystal Empire from the Nightmares.”

“I, really hate to say this,” Octavia said, “Especially knowing how the Commander feels, but… Celestia is right. By now, Sombra knows that we are a threat, and he will try to either capture the Maidens we have not secured yet, or he will send Nightmares to attack the Crystal Empire, to draw us and the Maidens out of hiding.”

“So, what are you saying?” Cadence asked Octavia, “That for now, we just… leave Twilight there?”

Octavia closed her eyes sadly, “Trust me, I hate it too, Cadence. But if we fall trying to rescue Lady Twilight, then all the Maidens will be in danger.”

Shining tightened his fists and trembled in frustration, fighting back tears. All this power now, and still he couldn’t save his sister. He then felt a hand on his shoulder, and looked to see Macintosh standing before him.

“Don’t worry,” Macintosh said, “I promise, we will save Twilight.”

Applejack turned to Rarity, who nodded in silent understanding, “Rarity an’ I will help too!” she said, surprising the blue armored knight.

“Wait, but aren’t you… don’t you have to be…”

“Pacifistic? Yes, we do,” Rarity said folding her arms, “But that simply means we cannot take up arms directly. However, summoning those Zords and aiding you in destroying the Canis Brothers didn’t hurt the seal.”

“’Sides, Twilight’s our friend,” Applejack continued with a smile, “I’m sure once we find the other three, they’ll be willin’ to help too.”

“Well, I’m already sworn to protect Rarity,” Spike shrugged, “And who knows? Maybe my luck will be the thing that you were missing to save her earlier,” he gave Shining an arrogant smirk.

“You… even after I looked down on you?” Shining asked.

“Wouldn’t be the first time someone thought the worst of me, and I doubt you’ll be the last, even with the whole Power Ranger thing,” Spike said, “So no hard feelings.”

Shining actually smiled at that. He turned to Cadence, who just nodded in confirmation, letting him know she was right there with everyone else. Realizing that he wasn’t alone, Shining just looked down, letting a few tears free.

“Everyone… thank you…” Shining said, covering his eyes with his arm, “I don’t care how we do it. I just… I want…”

“No need to elaborate, darling,” Rarity said, walking over to hug Shining Armor, “We’re all right there with you.”

“I, may not be on the front line, but I’ll do what I can to help too,” Sunburst said, “My knowledge of magic might help in this.”

“Yes, immensely,” Celestia said, catching everyone’s attention, “The sage Zordon told me to trust in those who wield the Morphing Grid, and seeing all of you work so hard, I can see now that he was right. Macintosh, Shining Armor, Octavia, Spike, Cadence, the five of you are now my chosen warriors, and thus your powers will resonate with the Maidens. This will be a long battle, and I do not know when or how it will end, but I ask that you all simply follow your hearts, and support one another as you did today. Do that, and no Nightmare will defeat you.”

“That last part will be easy,” Macintosh said, all of the Rangers standing beside him.

“Thank you, all of you,” Celestia smiled, turning to Applejack and Rarity, “You two, have already chosen your knights, I assume?”

“For me, the choice is obvious,” Applejack said, giving Macintosh a loving smile.

“Yes, as it is for me,” Rarity said smiling at Spike, “As I told him, no one else will do.”

Both Macintosh and Spike blushed at the way their assigned Maidens gazed at them.

“Wonderful. I will keep all of you alerted to the movements of the Nightmares, as we continue to search for the other Maidens. For now, rest my children. You all, more than deserve it,” Celestia bowed elegantly, “Good luck, and may the power protect you, my Celestial Guard Power Rangers!” and with that, Celestia burst into balls of light that shot into the Crystal Heart, which was either her place of rest, or the portal she used to return to wherever her domain was.

“And with that, our mission is done!” Spike stretched, “I’m beat!”

“As am I,” Octavia admitted, stretching in a manner that pushed her breasts out a bit, “Perhaps we should take the Goddess up on her offer and rest.”

Both Spike and Macintosh looked at Octavia and sighed in frustration. Why did she of all people have to be a lesbian?

“I think I need a shower,” Rarity admitted, now looking at her current state of undress, “That and some clothes.”

“Oh! Yes, absolutely!” Cadence cried stepping forward, “We can’t have you walking around in your underwear! I’m sure until we can get your clothes from your home, we can find something for you to wear. I’ll get right on getting you a room!”

“Oh, thank you so much, Princess,” Rarity smiled, “I appreciate it.”

“I don’t mind her staying like this…” Shining muttered softly, both Spike and Macintosh nodding in agreement. They all stole one last look, burning it in their memory since this might be the last time any of them got to see it.

Applejack shot her brother a slight look, which prompted him to straighten up and look away from Rarity.

Shining shook his head, “Um, Your Majesty,” Shining walked over to Cadence, “Could you, meet me in the barracks in a bit?”

“Um, sure,” Cadence said, “I’ll head right over after securing Rarity.”

“Perfect,” Shining said, turning to the door, “I’ll see everyone later, then.”

And with that, he walked off, leaving everyone confused.

“Wonder what’s up with him?” Spike asked, Macintosh shaking his head confused. Octavia smiled knowingly. She had a feeling she knew exactly what this was.

After she was sure Rarity was taken care of, Cadence made her way to the barracks, where she saw Shining Armor sitting on a bench alone, holding two training swords. When he saw that she was there, he got up and threw her one of the swords.

“You sure you want to do this?” Cadence asked catching the sword, “I don’t want you to hold back.”

“Nor do I plan to,” Shining said simply, “If I can’t stop you from being a Ranger, I can at least stop you from dying out there,” Shining got in his fighting stance, “I’ll teach you everything I know.”

Cadence smiled in appreciation, and got in a standard knight stance as far as she knew. The two of them then rushed at each other, beginning their sparring match. This would be the start of a powerful relationship on the battlefield.

That, and hopefully much, much more.

Author's Note

*Made from a repurposed Dragon Caesar/DragonZord costume.