After School Hours: Legend of Heroes - Trails of Cold Steel

“Dash, take this order to table five!”

“Table five! Got it!” she said, going back to the chef to pick up the order. On the way, she saw the woman at table 2 needed a refill of her drink, so she took care of that on the way without missing a beat, before going right to the chef and picking up the tray of food, “Hey, the guys at table eight have been waiting a bit for their orders.”

“What did they want?” the chef asked.

“Two Celebratory Goat Stews with assorted fruits, nuts and cheeses, Griffin Shanks with the secret BBQ sauce, and,” she grimaced, “Picked, purple worm marinated in regional spices.”

The chef grimaced in response to that, “Alright, they’re almost done. Think we just had to spend a bit of extra time on the Goat Stews.”

“Gotcha. Thanks,” she took the trays of food and brought them to table five, where Shining Armor and Octavia sat, “Alright, so which one wanted Bobo’s Jojo’s again?”

“That’s me,” Shining Armor raised his hands, the new barmaid setting down a plate of fried potato wedges with various seasonings on them, “Thanks.”

“No prob,” she winked at him, turning to Octavia, “And that means you ordered the Dragon’s Eggs, right?”

“Indeed, but I believe I also asked if I could have you for dessert,” Octavia purred, eyeing the new barmaid as if she were produce. She was a slender woman with a somewhat curvy figure, sharp magenta colored eyes made up in purple eye shadow, long rainbow colored hair partially tied in a pony tail, and wearing the standard barmaid uniform of a blue and white blouse, short red skirt, fishnet stockings and brown high heeled boots. At that remark, she pursed her lips, made up in red lipstick, and gave Octavia a dry look.

“Like I said the last five times you made a move on me, I’m not on the menu,” she said.

“T’is a shame,” Octavia sighed airily, “Cause I’ll admit, you truly light my fire, Miss Rainbow Dash.”

Shining Armor chopped Octavia’s head lightly, “Stop before you get slapped,” Shining turned to Rainbow Dash, “I apologize for my captain and her utter shamelessness.”

“Meh, I’m used to it. Main issue is I ain’t into girls,” she smirked at Shining Armor, “Something to keep in mind, hot stuff.”

Shining stiffened at that, “T-thanks. I’ll, remember that, I suppose…” he muttered. Rainbow Dash giggled and walked off, visibly adding more sway to her hips with each step, “Between the two of you, it’s a wonder I still come here.”

“Admit it, you enjoy the food and atmosphere,” Octavia said, going into her spicy Dragon Egg dish, served in a bowl with dragons on it.

“Well, I won’t deny that I do enjoy it,” Shining sighed, taking one of his potato wedges, “But I do feel odd relaxing right now when we’re still searching for the other Maidens.”

“We can’t work constantly,” Octavia said, “Taking time to refresh ourselves is healthy.”

Shining sighed and grumbled, “Fair. Still, why haven’t the other Maidens approached us? They have to know about the Celestial Guard by now, right?”

“Though true, Sombra knows as well,” Octavia sighed, eating a forkful of her meal, “He might be hounding the Maidens himself, making it harder for them to reach us. We can’t fault them for being somewhat afraid to approach us.”

“We have the blessing of the Goddess, their Divine Mother,” Shining took a bite of his potato wedge, “That should be evidence enough to trust us. And they saw us morph when Her Majesty made her announcement.”

“And why should that put them at ease?”

“Why shouldn't it?”

“Just because we have the blessing of the Goddess doesn’t mean we’re invincible,” Octavia pointed out, “Also, the Maidens have been hunted relentlessly by both Nightmare and immoral man alike for ages. They’re terrified right now, possibly unsure who to trust.”

“Guess I figured us having the power of the Goddess herself was reason enough to trust us,” Shining said.

“Trust isn't an obligation,” Octavia said, “Trust is something that must be earned.”

Shining gave Octavia a wry look. “You know, for someone who’s such a womanizer, you’re surprisingly wise at times.”

“My vices do not take away from my experience, Shiny,” Octavia smirked, using her nickname for him as they were off the clock, which made Shining Armor smile. Despite being Octavia’s superior, he’d gladly admit that she was his best friend. She was one of a handful of people he was okay getting criticism from.

He was happy she became a Power Ranger along with him. Despite having sexual preferences that made them incompatible romantically, he truly loved her, and he knew that she loved him in kind.

“Though, I must say that the new barmaid here is quite the fascinating woman,” Octavia said, once again eyeing the beautiful woman who waited on them as she tended to others, “Both she and her friend are lovely, both in appearance and personality.”

“Of course that’s where your mind goes,” Shining sighed smiling, his eyes landing on said friend as Rainbow Dash walked over to her. Said friend was truly a tragic beauty, with long, thick, luscious pink hair that fell down to her waist and over her shoulders, cyan eyes, and a more overtly curvy figure opposed to Rainbow Dash. She wore a yellow and white dress that showed off her extremely hefty bosom, brown boots, and for makeup wore red lipstick and pink eye shadow. Over top all of this was a green cloak with a hood.

She didn’t work here, but Rainbow Dash insisted on keeping her close to her for some reason. It made Shining Armor wonder if she was who she thought she was.

“Mmm, your eyes are locked on them, as well,” Octavia teased, “I wonder what Her Majesty Cadence would think~”

“Unlike you, I don’t imagine every woman I see disrobed,” Shining Armor said, not missing a beat, “Hey, have you tried to approach her?”

“Fluttershy? Nay, but I would like to,” Octavia smiled lustfully, “Because she’s most definitely my type.”

Shining frowned smiling, “I thought Rainbow Dash was your type?”

“Oh, she is,” Octavia nodded, “But a true woman of culture has multiple types. Rainbow Dash’s fire, and her dear friend’s demure elegance. Truly both are lovely women, and should both be appreciated for different reasons.”

“I swear, if not for the fact I know you personally, I’d swear you were a man,” Shining Armor sighed. To her credit, Octavia laughed. He did enjoy this time with her. It was nice to get out of his head every so often.

Behind Us: Tales of Symphonia

Elsewhere in the city, a figure landed on a roof looking out at the city. Said figure was a humanoid crow with large wings on his back, wearing a black ninja gi with a dark red scarf, armored wrist and shin guards with blades coming off of them, black talons for feet, and a large shuriken on his back.

“Brothers, I’ve arrived,” he said, his voice raspy with a sinister edge to it, “Surveying the Kingdom proper. No sign of the Maiden or her attendant anywhere.”

In another section of the city, looking over the backstreets, a similar figure landed, this one wearing the same looking ninja gi, but with a bladed bo staff and dark purple scarf, “The Maiden’s scent is all over this Kingdom. It’ll take ages to track them down here,” he said, his voice somewhat lighter than the other, but just as raspy.

“Perhaps not, brothers,” a final one said in a much deeper voice, standing on a building looking over the commercial district, this one wearing the same gi, but with a gray scarf and a katana at his side, “I’ve managed to identify a few that don’t bear the scent of her, meaning they haven’t been near her.”

“Perfect,” Red said, his voice echoing in the minds of the other two, “Narrow down where they all have in common, and then observe that location. Together, we shall corner the Maiden, and bring her to the Underworld to break her seal. For the Moon’s Eternal Night.”

“For the Moon’s Eternal Night,” purple said.

Grey looked up at the sky, “For the Moon’s Eternal Night.”

Dark Creatures: Child of Light

Azure Sandora presents

Power Rangers: Celestial Guard

Disclaimer: My Little Pony and Power Rangers belong to Hasbro

Please support the official releases.

Verse 5: The Crows' Game - Part 1

Her shift had come to an end, so Rainbow Dash put the tray down and sat by the counter to rest, “Whoo! Talk about a busy day!”

“Most of that was on you,” the bartender, Soarin, said cleaning a glass nearby, “You didn’t stop moving once your shift started.”

“What can I say? I like to be busy,” she smiled at Soarin, “Honestly, it’s amazing you guys managed without me for so long.”

“You definitely have kept this place going,” Soarin said, “Still, you sure you wanna do this kinda work? You’ve got enough talent to do pretty much anything, and yet you seem content here.”

“I ain’t looking for anything big right now,” Rainbow Dash said, sitting back now, “All I want is to take care of Fluttershy and myself. This job does good enough for that.”

“Speaking of taking care of Fluttershy…” Soarin pointed to the table in the back where Fluttershy sat. Rainbow looked, and saw Octavia going over to Fluttershy.

“Should have known she’d go for her at some point,” Rainbow Dash got up, “I better get over there. Talk to you later, Soarin.” she walked over to the table waving to Soarin, who just shook his head watching her go. Rainbow Dash wasn’t just extremely driven when it came to work, but she was super protective of her friend. It wasn’t like Tavi was going to hurt her or anything, but that was Rainbow Dash’s business.

So long as she kept up the good work, he was fine.

Bolmus Populi - Child of Light

It was always so busy here. So many people from all over. Visitors from other cities like them, knights, common folk, she even saw a few Nobles around. It was overwhelming, and a tad scary, but she really liked the Crystal Empire. Even though the Nightmares were still an issue here, it seemed almost like the people were a lot more at ease. Much of that probably came from the fact those "Power Rangers" were around.

As Fluttershy sipped her drink, her thoughts went to the Celestial Guard. She’d seen them fighting a few times in the city, always keeping her distance. Honestly, she wanted to approach them. She knew that they could keep them safe. Also, their friends were already with them, and Fluttershy missed them dearly. At the very least least, she wanted to go to them for Dashie’s sake.

She pulled out her heart shaped locket, revealing a picture of her and Dashie when they were kids, the latter grinning form ear to ear hugging her. She missed the days when Dashie smiled like that. But, if they went to the Celestial Guard, and they protected her, then maybe-

“Excuse me, Miss. Is that seat taken?”

“Hm?” Fluttershy looked up, seeing the raven haired woman that always came with the blue haired knight Dashie liked to tease. She was pretty, and from what she could tell was very nice, “Oh no, not at all,” Fluttershy said, realizing that her friend wasn’t around. She must have been lonely and wanted some company.

The raven haired knight sat down beside her, “M’lady, you must be a mimic,” she said, looking down a bit and smiling, “Because that chest, is too good to be true.”

Fluttershy blinked, feeling horribly confused, “What’s, a mimic?” she asked, tilting her head in confusion.

The raven haired knight looked almost like she was struck by something, as she stiffened, “Um, w-what?”

“I’ve never heard of a mimic before, so I don’t know if I’m one or not,” Fluttershy said honestly.

“Ah… I, see,” the nice, raven haired knight said, suddenly looking a bit pale.

“Oh dear, are you okay ma’am?” Fluttershy said leaning into her, openly concerned as she checked her forehead for signs of a fever, “You look sick! Or like something truly sharp and painful struck you!”

“S-something like that,” the raven haired knight said, looking down briefly. It looked like she was having a hard time looking her in the- Oh! She knew what she wanted!

“Oh, I know just the thing for you, honey,” Fluttershy said, wrapping her arms around the raven haired knight and pulling her face into her bosom, “There. Is that better?”

“Mhm…” the raven haired knight murmured, burying her face into her bountiful bosom. That was a good sign. For some reason, people really liked resting their faces in her breasts like this. She didn’t get it, but it always made them feel better.

“Ahem!”

Fluttershy looked and saw her best friend standing there, lips pursed and arms folded, which sadly wasn’t new these days, but she was here! Meaning her shift was probably over!

“Dashie!” Fluttershy cried happily, releasing the raven haired knight and jumping up to embrace her best friend, “I’m so happy you’re here! Is your shift finally over?”

“Yeah, it is,” Rainbow Dash said, returning the hug a bit, “What’s going on here?”

“Tragically, not nearly as much as I hoped,” the raven haired knight said. Oh dear, she still sounded like she was in pain.

“I’m so sorry Miss!” Fluttershy cried, “I was just so happy that my best friend was finished working!” she then got back in her seat, and pulled the raven haired knight back into her bosom, “There. You’ll feel better in no time.”

“I’ve already found heaven…” the raven haired knight purred, “It’s right here, in this angel’s lovely bosom…”

“Damn it, Fluttershy,” Rainbow Dash sighed, “Just leave her. We gotta get goi-”

Fluttershy gasped, “I can’t just leave her, Dashie! Not until I’m sure she’s better!”

Rainbow Dash rubbed her eyes, “Seriously…?”

“Yes, seriously,” Fluttershy nodded in resolution, “I want her to feel better, and this always works.”

“Celestia help me…” Rainbow groaned.

“Ah, there you are, Tavi,” her friend in the blue and white armor said, arms folded like Dashie’s earlier, “I go to use the rest room for a second, and this is what you’re up to?”

“Greetings Shiny,” Octavia smiled, snuggling into Fluttershy’s breasts a bit more, “You must try this. It’s like resting your face on a cloud.”

Fluttershy giggled. She’d heard others say things similar.

“I think you’ve enjoyed yourself quite enough,” Shining Armor said, grabbing Tavi’s ear and pulling it, dragging her away from Fluttershy’s breasts.

“Ah! Shiny, please! Just a few more minutes, I beg of you!” Tavi screamed dramatically.

“Again, I apologize for my Captain’s lasciviousness,” Shining Armor sighed, “I’ll be sure to reprimand her thoroughly for that.”

“Oh no! There’s nothing to reprimand her for!” Fluttershy assured, “I was just trying to help her! Please, go easy on her, sir!”

Rainbow Dash sighed, “Trust me, this happens more times than I’m comfortable with. She’s just, nice like that, I guess.”

Shining Armor sighed, “Indeed. Well, um, thank you for helping my Captain, heal, I guess,” Shining nodded to Fluttershy, “Have a good rest of the day, you two.”

“Same,” Rainbow Dash smirked, “See ya, Shining Armor~”

“Bye bye!” Fluttershy waved, watching the two leave, “Let me know if you need more healing later!”

“I wi- GAH!!!” she cried as Shining Armor pulled her ear harder, dragging her out of the tavern.

“By Celestia…” Rainbow Dash sighed rubbing her eyes, “Come on, Fluttershy. Let’s get back to our place.”

Fluttershy nodded, unable to keep from smiling, “Okay Dashie. Lead the way.”

With that, the two best friends walked out of the tavern, heading back to their place. Naturally, Fluttershy put her hood up before the left. Better safe than sorry, after all.

Organization 13 theme - Kingdom Hearts 2

Deep in the Underworld, Chrysalis had just finished accepting the new power from their beloved Goddess of the Moon. She felt immensely stronger now, looking herself over as a light green aura consumed her, “Oh, what power…!”

With this, you are now infused with the energy of the Morphing Grid. It is not the same as the Rangers, so do be cautious, but with this, you should be able to at least hold your own more effectively.

“Thank you, Nightmare Moon,” Chrysalis purred with an elegant bow, “I will use this power effectively in your honor.”

“Show it to me,” Sombra requested, “I want to see what it is my beloved granted you.”

Chrysalis bit her lip pained, but then turned to face Sombra with a smile, “Yes, My Lord!” she then took a deep breath, and felt into her new power.

~Chrysalis Morph Sequence~

Chrysalis’ eyes flashed green briefly. She then waved her hands and danced sensually, as green fire engulfed her entire body. The flame then took form as green and purple form fitting armor appeared over her entire body, leaving only her long green hair exposed. She posed elegantly as the image of a female snake charmer appeared behind her.

~End Sequence~

Chrysalis gasped, feeling the power of the Morphing Grid course through her. Her armor was mostly green, fashioned almost like Arabian belly dancing attire, with purple accents where her exposed skin would be, high heeled boots, armored gloves with sharpened fingers, and a green helmet shaped almost like a serpent’s head with a dark purple visor over her eyes, and a green veil over her silver mouth guard. Her long green hair flowed freely from the helmet, adding an odd sex appeal to the transformation.*

“This, this is the Morphing Grid…?” Chrysalis asked, looking at her new armored form.

“Truly fascinating…” Sombra looked Chrysalis over in her new form, “Chrysalis possesses the same power as the Rangers now?”

Sadly, only partially. This armor is more of a test, to see if I can harness the Morphing Grid in my current state and give it to those bound to you, my beloved.

“Well, it’s a start at least,” Sombra nodded, folding his arms and looking down, “I know you’re there. Might as well come out.”

“Apologies, my king,” the raspy voice of Scorpius said, the scorpion Nightmare walking in, “I did not mean to intrude.”

“Not at all,” Sombra said, “I imagine you’re intrigued by this turn of events?”

“Indeed I am,” Scorpius said, drawing his blade, “Would Lady Chrysalis be so kind to indulge in an old man’s curiosity?”

Chrysalis chuckled, “Honestly, that would be fantastic. I need to test what this armor can do. Master, may I?”

Sombra chuckled, “Go right ahead, Chrysalis.

Chrysalis held her hands out, hissing like a snake, and then jumped over to Scorpius, kicking him rapidly. Scorpius was knocked back a bit, but blocked the worst of it with his sword. When Chrysalis landed, she threw a few punches and a kick, which Scorpius took head on. He then slashed her back with his blade a few times, but Chrysalis ducked and weaved out of the way of his slashes, moving almost like a dancer.

She then spun around kicking him back, making him slide back. Chrysalis then held her hand out, crying out as snakes lashed out at Scorpius. He took a few hits, but also slashed them back before charging at Chrysalis, once again slashing with his sword. Chrysalis blocked his strikes perfectly, and then spin kicked Scorpius in the chest, followed by rapid kicks with the same leg, forcing him to have to jump back to regroup.

Scorpius charged up his sword and slashed at Chrysalis, sending a red shock wave at her. Chrysalis leaped into the air, completely dodging the attack as the area behind her exploded. She then forward flipped over to Scorpius, rapidly kicking him while in the air and pushing him back. He blocked with his blade, and then lashed at her with his tail.

Chrysalis took the attack, but did a back flip away as she summoned her armor’s default weapon, a bladed whip. She then returned fire at him, lashing out at him from a distance. He met her whip with his tail, the two clashing with enough force to shake the entire throne room.

“Yes…! Yes! This is perfect!” Scorpius roared in triumph, sheathing his blade, “I’ve seen enough! I can see that this Morphing Grid, even in its limited state is truly powerful!”

Chrysalis recoiled her whip and made it vanish, “Happy now, Scorpius?”

“Very. In fact, I now have a request for our Goddess concerning this,” Scorpius said.

“Is that so?” Sombra asked.

“When you’ve worked out how to fully utilize the Morphing Grid, I would like my apprentice to be the one to utilize the full power of it,” Scorpius requested.

“What?! You can’t be serious!” Chrysalis protested, “Her?! She’s not worthy of such a gift from the Goddess! If anyone should have the full power of this Morphing Grid, it should be me!”

“My apprentice has a sharp mind, and a strong will. She’s become a truly terrifying warrior. I wish to see what she’s capable of with this power in her hands,” Scorpius stated.

“Please, ignore the sentiments of this crusty old geezer!” Chrysalis demanded, “Let me be the one to use the full power of this Morphing Grid! I can be trusted! She cannot!”

“I have trained her to be a most ruthless fighter even without the Morphing Grid,” Scorpius said, “She not only is a master of the Dark Arts, but she’s also mastered hand to hand combat. Among my other students, she’s at the top of the class. And I imagine King Sombra can see the benefit of giving this power to one such as her.”

Sombra nodded thoughtfully, “I, can see the benefit in this. Notably I can also see how this could backfire.”

“Exactly! It's far too risky!” Chrysalis looked up at where their Goddess’ voice came from, “Nightmare Moon, please! See reason in this! Do not give this power to one such as her!”

Though it is risky, I confess that I too am intrigued by what could happen giving the power to Scorpius’ apprentice. I will allow this, under the condition that Sombra keep her on a tight leash.

“I will do what I can to ensure she remembers who she belongs to,” Sombra said with a bow.

“But, Master!” Chrysalis fussed.

“When the time comes, you will assist her. Till then, you are to go to the surface and ensure the Corvus Clan’s mission succeeds,” Sombra turned to Chrysalis, “Is that understood?”

Chrysalis folded her arms, pouting behind her new helmet, “Yes, King Sombra…”

I will let you know when I’ve gained full control over my half of the Morphing Grid. Till then, continue to prepare your apprentice, and ensure she understand the boon I am granting her.

Scorpius bowed, “I shall. Thank you, Nightmare Moon,” and with that, Scorpius turned and walked out of the throne room. Chrysalis let her armor vanish as she bowed to Sombra.

“I will head to the surface to assist the Corvus Clan,” she said softly.

“Good. Also, follow their example, Chrysalis. If the Rangers pose too much of a threat, retreat. You’re too valuable of an asset to lose,” Sombra said. Chrysalis smiled adoringly.

“Thank you, Master. I will not die, I promise,” and with that, she departed from the throne room, stopping to bite her lip in frustration once out of earshot of anyone else, “It’s not fair…! I’m eternally loyal to King Sombra, so why am I being out shined by that huzzy, Morgana?!”

Suburban Town of Trista - Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel

It didn’t take long to get back to their place. It was a small place, big enough for only two people really, and even then that was pushing it. It was humble, with a nice living room, kitchen, personal bathing area (which Rainbow Dash was grateful for, as she liked taking baths whenever possible), and a single bedroom. This meant that she and Fluttershy had to share a bed. Dash didn’t mind, but it was kinda awkward as Fluttershy insisted on sleeping nude, and always held Rainbow Dash super close and tightly.

She’d never tell Fluttershy to stop though. Seeing her happy was one of the highlights of her life. Yes, she was a bit of a handful at times, but she would die to protect her.

“Finally, home sweet home, for the most part,” Rainbow Dash sighed in relief, plopping down onto their couch and leaning back.

Fluttershy giggled, taking off her cloak and hanging it up, “Was it that exhausting working?”

“A bit,” Rainbow Dash admitted, “I like the Wonderbolt Tavern fine enough, but the amount of people is a bit draining at times.”

Fluttershy smiled warmly, and walked over to Rainbow Dash. She then knelt before her on the couch and removed her boot. At first Dash was about to ask what she was doing, but was then hit with a burst of relaxation through her body as Fluttershy massaged her foot, completely unprompted.

“F-Fluttershy…?” Dash asked, trying to hide how arousing this massage felt.

“Shh… just relax for a bit,” Fluttershy said gently, “Let me take care of you for now. Please.”

Rainbow Dash sighed, melting a bit into the massage. She lost this fight. Fluttershy’s greatest pleasure was being a servant to people, and taking care of them. Before all of this, she actually worked as a maid, and was happy doing that kind of work. So long as she was taking care of other people, she was happy.

She’d have made a wonderful wife in any other circumstances, and a fantastic mother. Sadly, due to her current role, none of that was possible.

After a few minutes, Fluttershy did the same for Rainbow Dash’s other foot. It made Dash feel a bit guilty, as she couldn’t think of anything to do for her in return. All she could do was keep her safe, and even that, she wasn’t sure how effective she’d be ultimately.

“Mmmm, if anyone ever sweeps you off your feet, I’m going to be so jealous,” Dash said softly.

“Oh Dashie, you don’t have to worry about that,” Fluttershy said lovingly, “No matter what, my heart belongs to you first and foremost.”

“Meaning what? Whoever you marry will have to be okay with sharing you with me?” Rainbow Dash asked. When Fluttershy nodded without hesitation, Rainbow couldn’t help but laugh, “Well, that makes things easier, cause I’m very possessive of my best friend.”

Rainbow demonstrated this by taking Fluttershy’s hand and lifting her to the couch before wrapping her arms around her possessively and ticking her.

“Gah! Dashie~!” Fluttershy laughed.

“Ah, that’s the best sound in the world,” Rainbow Dash smiled, still ticking her best friend, “The sound of your laughter.

“D-Dashie, stop! Please!” Fluttershy cried, laughing helplessly. Dash kept going for a bit longer before stopping, and simply held Fluttershy close in a warm embrace.

“How are you holding up?” Dash asked after a bit, “You’re not scared of those monsters, are you?”

“A bit, but I know I’m safe with you,” Fluttershy said adoringly, nuzzling Rainbow Dash, “You’ve always kept me safe.”

“That’s right, and I always will,” Dash said resolutely, “No matter what, I’ll protect you, Fluttershy.”

“I know you will, and I’m so grateful to you for that,” Fluttershy smiled, but then averted her eyes a bit, “Although, what about you?”

“Hm?”

“Who’s going to protect you, Dashie?” Fluttershy asked softly, “I’m not the only one the Nightmares are after.”

“They’re not after me directly yet,” Rainbow Dash said, “So I can focus solely on keeping you safe, and not worry about me.”

“But, if one day the Nightmares do find out that you’re-”

“I’ll deal with it then,” Rainbow Dash said, “But I don’t want you to worry about that, Fluttershy? Right now, just focus on keeping yourself safe.”

“That’s, hard for me, Dashie,” Fluttershy admitted, now holding Rainbow Dash closely, “I love you, and I can’t stand the thought of you being in danger.”

“Oh Fluttershy…” Dash sighed. They truly were best friends. Hell, some assumed they were sisters. Dash actually remembered one lifetime where they were twin sisters.

“That’s why, I really think we should consider heading to the castle and introducing ourselves to the Celestial Guard,” Fluttershy said, “They can keep you safe, so you can continue to keep me safe.”

Rainbow Dash’s heart sank. She had a feeling that’s where Fluttershy was going with this. She didn’t hold anything against them, but she was very skeptical about their chances at keeping them safe. After all, she knew that one of their sisters in Harmony was captured while being protected by the Crystal Knights, and the Celestial Guard hadn’t been able to rectify that.

She hadn’t ever met Faith in this lifetime, but she remembered they were close in a few lifetimes in the past. Knowing she was still a prisoner in the Underworld made trusting this Celestial Guard a bit tough.

“We don’t need them,” Rainbow Dash said, “I can keep you safe just fine.”

“But they have Mother Celestia’s blessing,” Fluttershy protested.

“Anyone can say that, but that doesn’t mean they’re legit,” Rainbow Dash got up and walked over to the kitchen, “I’m not risking your safety on the chance they can protect you. They’re gonna have to prove it to me first.”

Fluttershy sighed looking down. Dash knew that wasn’t the answer she wanted to hear, but… it was the best she could give. Lifetimes of having her trust taken advantage of taught Rainbow Dash to be careful who she let in. She knew that once she let someone into her heart, it’d be permanent, so she had to do this.

This was how she protected herself.

Rainbow Dash opened their pantry, seeing a lack of food there, “Shit. Gonna have to buy some food.”

“Want me to go get something?” Fluttershy asked, rising up, “I, think, I remember where the market-”

“No!” Rainbow Dash cried as a reflex, “Gah… I mean, it’s dangerous for you to walk outside right now, Fluttershy. Those Nightmares know your face, remember? You should let me do the shopping.”

“But, you’re still tired, aren’t you? You should rest, Dashie,” Fluttershy stated.

“I’ll rest easier knowing you’re okay,” Rainbow Dash went over to Fluttershy and placed a hand on her shoulder, “Leave the shopping to me, okay? I’ll be back in a few minutes.”

“Mmmm… okay Dashie,” Fluttershy said in resignation, “Just please don’t overwork yourself.”

“I won’t. Promise,” Rainbow Dash walked to the door, picking up her bag on the way, “Just please be here when I get back, Fluttershy.”

Fluttershy nodded, "No matter what, I’ll be here when you get home.”

Rainbow Dash relaxed as much as she could, and stepped out of the house to go to the market. She wasn’t lying that it wasn’t safe for her to be walking around, but that wasn’t the only reason she needed Fluttershy to stay there. She loved the girl to death, but her sense of direction was terrible. She’d get lost in a straight line without supervision.

end song

Jumping from building to building, one of the Crows on the hunt had managed to isolate the scent of the one they were hunting. Her sweet, floral scent, each of the three reacted differently to it. Carmine found the scent to be utterly revolting, his hatred for the source of it driving his desire to hunt. Tyrian on the other hand, found the scent to be soothing. He wanted to claim the source of the scent for himself. None truly had as extreme of a reaction to it as Ash though.

To him, the scent was intoxicating, and drove him into almost a frenzy.

He landed on the roof of a house looking out at the market, and looked around, carefully scanning everyone who walked by, “Where are you, my prey?” he asked, drawing his katana and running his beak against the blade, “I know you’re somewhere in this town. You will not hide from me for long.”

He took in a deep breath, THERE! He could smell her! She was close! That, or someone had just been close to her! They’d lead him to where she was!

“You will not hide from me. Wisps!” he called out, a group of unique Wisps appearing on the roof with him, wearing similar gis to him and his brothers, but without the scarfs, “Search the Market for one who knows where the Maiden of Kindness is! Use force as needed, but not lethal force. Not yet, at least.”

The Wisps all bowed and scattered. For now, he’d stay out of sight and observe everyone’s movements. He had a feeling he knew who he was looking for if not the Maiden herself, after all.

As Rainbow Dash walked through the market, a sense of dread washed over her. She couldn’t shake the feeling that she was being watched. To anyone else, she might have seemed paranoid, but considering what they were running from…

Rainbow Dash shook it off, and instead focused on shopping, “Let’s see, Apples. Can’t have to many of those,” she said, going over to the fruit stand. As she walked, movement in a nearby alleyway caught her attention. It looked like-

She quickly looked in that direction, careful not to be too obvious. No one. She relaxed a bit, but not too much. This didn’t mean anything ye-

A scream caught her attention. She turned and saw three Wisps from the Underworld attacking a woman. Damn it, she recognized her from the tavern, too!

Rainbow looked around, realizing that she’d be taking a huge risk here. She couldn’t leave her to be attacked, but due her situation, she couldn’t really fight back, and if she got too close…

“Damn it! No time!” Rainbow Dash rushed over to help the lady, grabbing a basket of cabbages from a stand on the way.

“Wait, no! My cabbages!” the man behind the counter cried.

She felt bad for what she was about to do, but hopefully he could grow some more. She then tossed them at the Wisps knocking them back, and helped the woman up, “Go! Get out of here!” Rainbow Dash ordered. The woman nodded and ran off. Rainbow then looked and saw the Wisps approaching her.

She backed away from them, and then looked around to see other people being attacked by Wisps. The odd thing was, they’d get close to them, examine them, and then just toss them aside just to go to someone else. They were very selective, too.

They were searching for someone. They were searching for Fluttershy!

And if this kept up, everyone here would be…

One of the Wisps lunged at Rainbow Dash, but she screamed and jumped away right on time, hitting them with the basket to knock them away. She tried to run, but another Wisp grabbed her arm and pulled her back, getting very close to her.

It nodded to one of its associates, saying something in gibberish. Said associate leaped away as the Wisps all began to gather around her. She violently pulled to get free, but the one holding her grabbed her other wrist and tightened its grip. She continued to struggle in vain, knowing exactly what was going to happen, but unable to fight it.

As such, she let out the loudest scream she could.

Feel My Blade: Final Fantasy IX (start at 0:55)

“Oh no you don’t!” she heard a familiar voice shout. She looked and saw Shining Armor and Octavia rushing toward her, both with their swords out. Shining Armor kicked the Wisps around them away, and then grabbed the one holding Rainbow Dash, knocking it back and then slashing with his sword before grabbing Dash’s arm, “You okay?!”

“Y-yeah but, how did you-”

“Not important! Octavia, secure the other civilians and try to contact the others!”

Octavia stabbed a Wisp with her rapier and then turned to Shining Armor, “Aye, Commander!” she turn slashed two more away from a little girl and helped her up, leading her to where her mother was.

Shining Armor nodded and moved Rainbow Dash behind him, “I won’t let them touch you, so try to stay close to me, okay?”

Rainbow Dash blushed a bit, but nodded. He was, protecting her?

The Wisps charged at Shining, but he virtually untouchable. Each one that got too close, he knocked back with ease, either by kicking them back, or slashing them with his sword, which seemed to be doing a lot of damage. Must have been charmed to damage them or something.

Each time one got close to grabbing her, he always managed to pull her away, spinning around and keeping her behind him and safe. All the while, he seemed to be looking for something as well.

“Got it!” he slashed in a wide arc, “Let’s go!” grabbing her arm, Shining Armor ran out of the market place. Dash looked and noticed Octavia was following close behind them.

end song

Eventually, they reached a semi enclosed area and hid there, Shining Armor backing against a wall to rest, “Okay, I think we lost them for now.”

Octavia poked her head out, “They’re searching around for us pretty frantically. We shouldn’t leave this spot just yet.”

Shining nodded, “Were you able to reach anyone?”

“Sir Macintosh said that there were other sections being attacked at around the same time,” Octavia explained, “He and Sir Dragneel got cornered in the backstreets, and Her Majesty is with a few other guards securing the way to the Upper Class region,” Rainbow heard a pretty jingle playing, and then Octavia pulled out an odd golden device, holding it to her ear, “Yes, Sir Dragneel?”

“We managed to clear out the backstreets,” a young man’s voice said, “This is weird though. The Nightmares didn’t seem like they were really focused on one person when they attacked. Seemed more like they were searching intensely for someone.”

“Really?” Octavia asked, her eyes landing on Rainbow Dash, who tensed under her shockingly sharp gaze.

“They’d grab hold of someone, and then after a bit just toss them aside and go onto the next person.”

“Stay on hold for a second,” Octavia held her odd device down, “Commander, a word?” Shining nodded and walked over to Octavia, “Apparently the Wisps were actively searching for someone in the other areas.”

“That so?” Shining asked frowning.

“That’s not exactly what we saw though,” Octavia said, once again looking at Rainbow Dash.

“No, it’s not,” Shining said, now looking at Rainbow Dash as well, “And considering the signal we were following…”

Octavia nodded, holding the device to her ear, “Sir Dragneel, look for anything the ones who were attacked have in common. The Commander and I are following another lead.”

“Got it. We’ll keep in touch,” the voice said before Octavia pocketed her device again. She and Shining Armor then turned to Rainbow Dash.

“Well Miss? Care to explain what those Nightmares wanted with you?” Octavia asked.

“I was just trying to do some shopping,” Rainbow Dash said, her heart racing a bit “Those monsters attacked me at random.”

Shit! I need to get out of here! Those Crows are going to appear, I know it!

“Mmm, see, I’m not so sure about that,” Octavia said, walking over to Rainbow Dash, kneeling before her, “Our companions noticed that the Nightmares were looking for something in other areas at the same time, but the ones we fought seemed less like they were looking…”

“And more like they found what they were looking for,” Shining finished, kneeling beside her, “And I’m willing to bet, it has something to do with the Magic of Harmony.”

Rainbow Dash’s breath caught in her throat. She tried to hide her concern, but based on how Octavia nodded, she failed miserably.

“I'd say we're pretty accurate by that response,” Octavia said softly. Realizing she was caught, Rainbow Dash closed her eyes tightly. She tried to push past them out of the alleyway, but both Knights grabbed hold of her, blocking her way out.

“Whoa! What’s the hurry?” Shining Armor asked, “We’re here to-”

“I have to get out of here!” Rainbow Dash fussed, “It’s not safe here!”

“Not safe? What do you-”

“I can’t let the Crows find me! If they do, they’ll figure out where she is!” Rainbow fussed.

“The, Crows?” Shining Armor asked, his eyes widening, “Wait, do you mean a Nightmare shaped like-”

“Looks like you did most of the work for me,” a deep, cold voice echoed in the alleyway, making Rainbow’s blood run cold.

“No…” Rainbow whimpered, “We need to leave, now.”

“Oh, I’m afraid it’s too late for that,” the voice said. Right at the only way out, stood a terrifying monster. It had the general appearance of a humanoid crow, wearing a black ninja’s gi and a gray scarf around his neck and over his shoulder. At his side was a dangerous looking katana.

“Nightmare!” Shining shouted, he and Octavia standing in front of Rainbow Dash holding their blades out.

“Careful! I can tell from his stance! He’s different than the ones we’ve faced before!” Octavia said.

“Oh, you’ve fought my kind before then?” the crow asked, slowly stepping forward and drawing his blade, “Well, let's just skip to the good part then.”

“We have you outnumbered!” Shining Armor said, “Even cornered, you won’t stand a chance.”

The crow laughed, a gravely, coarse sound, “Oh, that’s the thing though! I never enter a fight unprepared.” he snapped his finger, and out of the shadows surrounding them appeared more of those strange Ninja Wisps. Almost like they were always there, “Where there is shadow, we are always present.”

“This is bad, Commander,” Octavia said, pulling out that golden device again.

“Yeah, very bad,” Shining Armor agreed, pulling one out himself.

“I am Ash, the eldest of the Corvus Brothers,” he readied his blade, “And I am your Reaper.”

Glint of Cold Steel - Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel

“I think not!” Octavia held the odd device out and typed three buttons on it before holding it up to the side of her head, “Commander, I think it’s time!”

PHOENIX!!!

“You read my mind!” Shining Armor did the same motion as Octavia, albeit with different buttons.

PEGASUS!!!

“W-what are you-”

“Celestial Guard!” the two of them waved their devices in a wide arc, and then pointed them to the sky, “Stand Up!”

~Transformation Sequence~

Shining Armor and Octavia both threw their arms out to their sides as the symbol of Celestia appeared on their chest. They then held their arms up as a bright light shined down onto them from the sky. Around them, a giant ethereal image of a titan appeared: a blue Pegasus stomping its foot preparing to charge, and a golden Phoenix spreading its wings screeching angrily. Both turned into a constellation of stars and shrunk down to their respective knights, causing their armor to manifest in an instant. As they lowered their arms at the same time, their helmets appeared mere seconds later.

~End Transformation Sequence~

Both Shining Armor and Octavia got in fighting stances, drawing their broad swords and pointing them at Ash, while also standing to protect Rainbow Dash, who’s eyes were wide. What, did she just witness? And why did they feel, familiar to her?

Something about this warmth, and the light that formed their armor. Was it… truly her Divine Mother…?

As the Wisps charged at them, Shining and Octavia wasted no time slashing through them. Like this, the Wisps stood literally no chance.

The same couldn’t have been said about Ash though, as he charged forward with his katana raised, slashing down at Octavia. She blocked just in time, and Shining Armor kicked Ash away from her. Before they could focus on him though, three Wisps got past them and made a beeline to Rainbow Dash.

“Shit!” Shining cried, blocking as Ash began to overwhelm him with sword strikes, “Octavia!”

“On it!” she nodded, summoning her Divine Bow, and fired at the Wisps, killing them instantly. She then spun around to slash at Ash with the blades of her bow, knocking him back and allowing Shining Armor to head back to Rainbow Dash, “Commander, it’s not safe for the Lady here! I’ll give you an opening!”

“What?! But then you’ll-” he was cut off as more Wisps grabbed for Rainbow, prompting him to summon his Divine twin sided spear and slash them away, still keeping Rainbow Dash close to him.

“You’re faster than I am Morphed!” Octavia said, slashing through a few Wisps and then charging up her bow, “Please Commander, go!”

She fired a flaming arrow shot out of the alleyway, knocking a whole line of wisps down and Ash as well. Shining huffed in frustration, but grabbed Rainbow Dash’s hand, “Come on! Let’s get you out of here!”

Rainbow nodded, letting the Blue Ranger guide her out of the alleyway. Ash made an attempt at grabbing her leg, and then slammed his fist on the ground.

“Damn it! Brothers! I’ve found the one who knows where the Maiden is! The Blue Ranger has her! I have the Yellow Ranger cornered!”

Tyrian and Carmine, both in another part of the Kingdom, nodded to each other, “Got it,” Tyrian said, “I’m on my way!”

“I’ll go after the blue Ranger,” Carmine said. The two Crows patted each other on the shoulder and took off into two separate directions.

Ash threw Octavia into another part of the alleyway. She rolled to her feet and fired her laser arrows at the Crow, who effortlessly slashed all of the shots away with his katana. He then held up his hand, throwing it out and firing sharp black feathers at the Yellow Ranger. Sparks flew off her armor as the attacks pierced through, knocking her to the ground.

As she writhed in pain, Ash rushed over to her, grabbing her by the neck and getting close to her, taking a deep breath, “That floral scent… So, you’ve made contact with her as well…”

He gripped her neck tighter and held her up. As she struggled to get out of his grip, Ash slammed her into a wall to knock the wind out of her. He then released her, only to slash the lone Ranger with his katana, making Octavia scream in pain. This lasted a few seconds before she managed to just barely block with her bow, forced to one knee as Ash pressed down with his katana.

“Where is she?” he demanded, “Tell me, and I might let you live.”

“I, know not, who you refer to!” Octavia grunted, pushing against his blade, “And even, if I did, I would not tell you!”

“Oh? You don’t know? I imagine if you thought hard enough, you’d piece it together! After all, you’re practically smothered in her scent!” he took another breath, his eyes flashing red, “She is mine…! All mine!”

Octavia pushed to her feet enough to kick him back, and then fired at him with her bow, knocking him back a bit further. With a cry of determined passion, Octavia began slashing wildly at Ash with the blades on her bow, finally doing massive damage to the Crow and sending him flying away from her. Before she could ready her bow again, another barrage of feathers rained down onto her, ending her flying into the air as she was caught in a massive explosion. She slammed into a wall, and then fell back onto the ground face first.

As she tried to rise to her feet, another crow landed beside the one she assaulted, helping him up. This one wore a purple scarf, “Sorry I’m late, Brother.”

“T’is fine, Tyrian,” Ash said, Tyrian holding his arm over his shoulder, “That woman over there, she has the scent of the Maiden of Kindness all over her.”

“Ah, so that’s why you’re still facing this one,” Tyrian realized, “Well, she can’t very well handle the two of us.”

“Wait… there’s more…?” Octavia asked, staggering to her feet and holding her chest in pain.

“The truly pragmatic never deploy into enemy territory on their own,” the new Crow said, stepping forward as Ash removed his arm. Tyrian spun his bladed bo staff above his head before entering his stance, “I am Tyrian, the second of the Corvus Brothers. Yellow Ranger, tell us where the Maiden is now, or you shall perish here.”

As he said that, Ash stood beside him, holding his sword in a ready stance as well. Shit, he could still fight.

Octavia forced herself upright, and held out her bow. Why they thought she knew where the Maiden was she had no idea. They kept going on about her scent? Crows did have a good sense of smell, but the only ones she’d had any physical contact with were her fellow Rangers, a few of the knights, a maid or two she enjoyed flirting with, and-

end song
~Flashback~

“Oh, I know just the thing for you, honey,” Fluttershy said, wrapping her arms around Octavia and pulling her face into her bosom, “There. Is that better?”

“Mhm…” Octavia murmured, burying her face into her bountiful bosom.

And that wasn’t all, either. In fact, once Rainbow Dash approached…

“Dashie!” Fluttershy cried happily, releasing the raven haired knight and jumping up to embrace her best friend, “I’m so happy you’re here! Is your shift finally over?”

“Yeah, it is,” Rainbow Dash said, returning the hug a bit, “What’s going on here?”

“Tragically, not nearly as much as I hoped,” the raven haired knight said, only for Fluttershy to gasp and pull her right back into her bosom.

~End Flashback~

Behind Us - Tales of Symphonia

Octavia’s eyes were wide behind her helmet, her heart pounding so hard she was surprised they couldn’t hear it banging against her armor. The one they were looking for, was Fluttershy!

She was a Maiden of Harmony!

“What’s the matter? Cat’s caught your tongue?” Ash asked, the two Nightmares walking over to her, “Happen to know who we’re talking about then?”

Octavia looked between the two of them, gritting her teeth nervously. Thankfully they couldn’t see her face behind her helmet, so this bluff could work.

“Again, you are mistaken that I’d know where this lady is,” Octavia shrugged, “You say her scent is on me? Why, if that’s true then she’s one of many. I can’t be expected to remember every lovely lady I see. If her bosom is healthy enough, that makes her face even harder to recall.”

“Then keeping you alive is a waste,” Tyrian said, “At the very least, we can kill one of the Rangers while she’s alone.”

Tyrian spun his staff overhead, and slashed at Octavia. She rolled out of the way, but immediately Ash’s blade dug into her. She tried to block the rest of his attacks, but he then jumped straight into the air. Tyrian launched a barrage of black feathers at Octavia, sparks flying off of her armor as she took heavy damage. Before she could respond at all, Ash landed in front of her slashing down with his katana. He then spun around to get behind Octavia and kicked her over to Tyrian.

Tyrian caught her with his bo staff and the two clashed weapons, though it was clear Octavia was getting overwhelmed due to her already taking a lot of damage. While she was focused on Tyrian, Ash rushed over to her, sheathing his sword and piercing his hand into her back.

Octavia let out a blood curdling scream as she felt her entire body weaken from that. He pierced her a few more times causing her legs and arms to completely give out, but Tyrian kept her on her feet by slashing with his staff. Ash back flipped away just as Tyrian kicked her over to him.

Ash, who was on his hands at the time, kicked Octavia into the air. The two crows nodded and jumped high into the air after her, flying past her and slashing at high speed before letting her drop.

end song

Octavia writhed on the ground, moaning in pain as the two crows landed before her.

“This was avoidable,” Tyrian said, “Had you just given us the info we wanted.”

“Let’s not waste time with this one,” Ash said, holding his blade ready, “End her miserable existence now.”

“Agreed,” Tyrian said, raising his bo staff, “Nice meeting you, Yellow Ranger.”

Octavia looked up at them, and then shut her eyes tightly, tearing up behind her helmet.

No…! I can’t die here…!

I promised… Vinyl, that I’d…!

“OCTAVIA!!!”

Wait, was that, Spike…?

Sure enough, Spike and Macintosh were seen rushing toward them, both already morphed and wielding their Divine Weapons. Macintosh made it first, slashing both crows away from Octavia with his Hero’s Blade as Spike slammed his Ax down, creating a yellow shock wave that knocked them further back.

“You alright, Tavi?” Spike asked, kneeling before her as Macintosh stood in front of his team in case the Crows got brave.

“You, came just in time,” Octavia panted, “How, did you-”

“Celestia told us you were in danger,” Spike said, “Glad we weren't too late.”

“The Red and Green Rangers,” Tyrian said, he and his brother staggering to their feet, “You possess the titans born from the Maidens of Honesty and Generosity.”

“An’ if you don’t wanna meet ‘em face to face, get the hell outta here!” Macintosh ordered

“What do you think, Tyrian?” Ash asked looking at the Rangers, the Green one helping up the Yellow Ranger, “Chance it?”

“No. It’d be a waste of time and energy,” Tyrian said, “Let’s catch up with Carmine and regroup.”

“Understood,” the two of them did hand signs and pointed to the ground, a puff of smoke shooting up in front of them, causing the Rangers to have to cover their faces. When the smoke cleared, the crows were gone.

“Well, at least they’re gone, for now,” Macintosh said, turning to Octavia, “What happened? Weren’t you and Shinin’ together?”

“Yes, but I sent him to protect our charge,” Octavia said weakly, her strength slowly returning to her, “The Nightmare mentioned he had brothers, but I didn’t expect to run into any of them.”

“From what they were saying, there’s a third one, he might be after Shining Armor,” Spike said.

“Then we better warn him,” Macintosh said, “An’ Cadence, jus’ in case she runs into either first.”

“There’s, something else,” Octavia said, “The one they’re after, I know who it is.”

“One of the Maidens, I take it?” Macintosh asked, Octavia nodding, “Know which one?”

“I think, Kindness,” Octavia said, “And if I’m right, I know exactly who it is.”

It had been a while since Rainbow Dash left to go shopping. Fluttershy tried not to worry, but she couldn’t help it. She rarely took this long. That, and she was starting to get hungry herself. Checking the kitchen, she saw next to nothing there. Nothing she could eat right away, and Rainbow Dash was a much better cook than she was.

“With it being so late, Dashie’s going to be to tired to cook anything when she gets back,” Fluttershy said, looking out their window, “I promised Dashie that I’d be here when she got back… but that one food stand was pretty close to here,” she smiled and walked over to her cloak, putting it on, “We still have some money left over from when we left Cloudsdale. I’ll even get something for Dashie, so she won’t have to cook right away when she gets home.”

She left a quick letter telling Dashie that she left to get food for them, just in case she got home before she did. After making sure she had everything she needed, Fluttershy left out of the house and made her way to the food stand on the left side of the street. Or, was it the right side? Hrm, she couldn’t, quite remember…

She pulled her hood over her head and walked down the right path, happy that she could do something nice for Dashie. Even if she was upset that she left the house on her own, once she brought home dinner, she’d forget all about it.

“Long pink hair, doe eyed look on her face, and large breasts? I think I found who the Corvus Brothers were looking for,” Chrysalis purred, watching Fluttershy leave from a distance, “This is almost too easy, just how I like it~”

To be continued…

Author's Note

*This isn’t the sixth ranger of this story. In Ginga Sentai Knightranger (reminder: not real, so don’t look it up), this was “Lady Ophiucha, the right hand of King Schwartz. She was considered a Sentai like character, so we’re using this form as Nightmare Moon experimenting with the Morphing Grid, and as a way to include Chrysalis in the stock footage fights.

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